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| Book Reviews - Children's Fiction |
Current book reviews for this category are shown below.
You may add your own review if you wish. |
| The Great Rabbit Rescue |
Katie Davies
£5.99, Simon and Schuster UK Ltd
The long awaited sequel to the 2010 Waterstone’s Children’s Book prize winner, The Great Hamster Massacre, brings more adventure for nine year old Anna and fi ve year old Tom. The Great Rabbit Rescue reunites its readers with the same hilarious, yet heartwarming tones as its redecessor with new characters, new animals and a new challenge for its loveable leads! The Great Hamster Massacre has sold over 45,000 copies since its publication in January, proving popular with national press such as The Sunday Times and The 5 O’Clock Show. Katie will be appearing this summer at Edinburgh festival, and at Bath Festival in the autumn. Katie will be writing a World Book Day book, The Great Petshop Panic, in March 2010, featuring more fun from Anna and Tom. |
| The Weirdstone of Brisingamen |
ALAN GARNER
£14.99, Harper Collin's Children Books
Alan Garner’s award-winning and influential novel The Weirdstone of Brisingamen celebrates its 50th Anniversary this autumn. To mark the occasion a lavish gift edition will be published in hardback, with a foreword by the author on 30 September (978-0-00-737110-5, HB, £14.99).
The book, which has never been out of print, has been published in several languages and been adapted into a stage and radio play. Its anniversary is also being marked with a weekend festival in Alderley Edge between October 8 -10.
In the seminal fantasy masterpiece when Colin and Susan are pursued by eerie creatures across Alderley Edge, they are saved by the Wizard. He takes them into the caves of Fundindelve, where he watches over the enchanted sleep of one hundred and forty knights.
But the heart of the magic that binds them – Firefrost, also known as the Weirdstone of Brisingamen – has been lost. The Wizard has been searching for the stone for more than 100 years, but the forces of evil are closing in, determined to possess and destroy its special power.
Colin and Susan realise at last that they are the key to the Weirdstone’s return. But how can two children defeat the Morrigan and her deadly brood?
The Weirdstone of Brisingmen and the sequel The Moon of Gomrath will also be re-issued in paperback on 2 September 2010.
ALAN GARNER
ALAN GARNER was born in Congleton in Cheshire in October 1934. He was brought up on Alderley and still lives with his wife and family, between Congleton and Alderley.
Alan was educated at Alderley Edge Primary School, Manchester Grammar School, did two years National Service and then went to Magdalen College, Oxford. He left Oxford knowing that he had to be a writer and not a teacher as he had originally intended.
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| Finding Violet Park |
Jenny Valentine
£5.99, Harper Collin's Children books
“I met Violet Park after she died. But it didn’t stop me
getting to know her.”
A stunning new look for Jenny Valentine’s debut novel, Finding Violet Park - winner of the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize.
In this captivating novel, sixteen-year-old Lucas Swain becomes intrigued by the urn of ashes left in a cab office. Convinced that its occupant – Violet Park – is communicating with him, he contrives to gain possession of the urn, little realising that his quest will take him on a voyage of self-discovery and force him to finally confront the events surrounding his father’s sudden disappearance.
As he’s unravelling the mystery of Violet Park, Lucas starts to evaluate his own relationships with the adults around him – his slightly eccentric grandparents, highly-strung mother and her boyfriend Bob. He discovers that he’s not the only one hiding a few secrets and begins to realise the wider impact of his father’s vanishing.
A young writer with a distinctive narrative voice, Jenny Valentine taps into contemporary teenage issues through a thoroughly believable and likeable narrator. Finding Violet Park is a page-turning detective story that deals sensitively and realistically with parent-child relationships, secrets and family ties.
Praise for Finding Violet Park:
“Finding Violet Park is a wonderful debut for many reasons. What marks this book out is not just its charm, warmth and wit but also the skill with which Valentine braids together the father thread and the detective one. Indeed the plot is so well controlled that you never anticipate the clever ending.”
The Guardian Review
“Clever and totally assured, it is hard to believe that this is a first novel from a new author… no plot summary can do justice to the particular flavour of this book, both witty and with moments of genuine sweetness… [an] ingenious novel from a writer who already has much to offer. *****”
Nicholas Tucker for Books for Keeps
“Ultra-original and brilliantly written, this will have you laughing – and crying, too.”
Mizz
“Valentine captures the dynamics of contemporary family life without compromising the voice of her 16-year-old narrator… Despite the weighty subject matter, in amongst the drama, poignancy and desperation there is also optimism and humour.”
Scotland on Sunday
“First-time author Jenny Valentine has an original and exciting voice.”
Writing Magazine
THE AUTHOR
Jenny Valentine moved house every two years when she was growing up. She has just moved house again, probably not for the last time. She worked in a wholefood shop in Primrose Hill for fifteen years where she met many extraordinary people and sold more organic loaves than there are words in her first novel. She has also worked as a teaching assistant and a jewellery maker. She studied English Literature at Goldsmith’s College, which almost put her off reading but not quite. Jenny is married to a singer/songwriter and has two children. She lives in Hay on Wye.
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| The Double Life of Cassiel Roadnight |
Jenny Valentine
£5.99, Harper Collin's Children Books
Two boys. One identity. He can change his life if he says yes…
An explosive new mystery from the award-winning author Jenny Valentine, The Double Life of Cassiel Roadnight is the story of a boy who assumes the identity of a missing teenager and in-so-doing unearths a series of shattering family secrets – and the truth about who he really is.
The Double Life of Cassiel Roadnight hold all the classic hallmarks of a Jenny novel – a fantastically strong, sensitive and memorable first person narration; themes of loss and betrayal, family secrets and personal identity; truly quality writing that is 'literary' but never inaccessible or pretentious.
“[Valentine] has a magical narrative voice that instantly engages” Amanda Craig, The Times
The Double Life of Cassiel Roadnight is a thrilling new novel from the author of Finding Violet Park, Broken Soup and the Ant Colony.
THE AUTHOR
Jenny Valentine moved house every two years when she was growing up. She has just moved house again, probably not for the last time. She worked in a wholefood shop in Primrose Hill for fifteen years where she met many extraordinary people and sold more organic loaves than there are words in her first novel. She has also worked as a teaching assistant and a jewellery maker. She studied English Literature at Goldsmith’s College, which almost put her off reading but not quite. Jenny is married to a singer/songwriter and has two children. She lives in Hay on Wye
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| Invisible Fiends - Raggy Maggie |
Barry Hutchison
£15.99, HarperCollins Children's Books
Did you have an imaginary friend? Ever wondered what would happen if they came back to visit? Well, wonder no more… Barry Hutchison’s Invisible Fiends series continues in August with the publication of Raggy Maggie (for readers 9+).
Billy is the hardest kid in school and a horrible bully. So Kyle could almost find it funny that Billy's childhood invisible friend was a little dolly named Raggy Maggie.
Almost, but not quite. Because now Raggy Maggie is back, and she wants Kyle to play a game. The game is very simple. Find where she's hidden Billy – or Billy dies…
Described as Harry Potter meets Nightmare on Elm Street, Invisible Fiends is a fantastically original, darkly funny and shiver-inducing new horror series. The series launched with Mr Mumbles earlier this year. In the first instalment 12-year-old Kyle’s imaginary friend from childhood comes back to life looking for revenge on the boy who forgot him. Kyle doesn’t have time to worry about why, only one thing matters: staying alive.
About Barry Hutchison
Barry Hutchison was born and raised in the Highlands of Scotland. Despite this, he has never once tossed a caber, wrestled a haggis, or gone a-roamin’ in the gloamin’. He’s not even entirely sure what a gloamin’ is. An avid reader from a very early age, Barry spent most of his childhood with his nose buried in some book or another, and began writing his own novels when he was 10. Barry was 17 that he sold his first piece of written work, the comedy horror screenplay, Curse of the Bog Women.
It wasn’t until 2007 that Barry decided to turn his attention to children’s books, writing a number of books for Egmont, including several based on the Cartoon Network TV series, Ben 10.
Barry lives in Fort William in the Highlands with his partner, Fiona, and their two children, Kyle and Mia. |
| ALIENOLOGY |
Dugald Steer
£17.99, Templar Publishing
The Complete Guide to Extraterrestrials
Landing 28 September 2010
Templar Publishing (ISBN 978-1-84877-004-1)
£17.99 RRP
TEMPLAR GOES INTERGALACTIC AS IT PREPARES TO LAUNCH NEW SMS TXT AND ONLINE CONTENT FOR ITS LATEST OLOGY BOOK – ALL PART OF THE ‘IIF’ EXPERIENCE: Interactive, Informative, Fun!
It’s all-systems-go as Templar begins the countdown for the launch of Alienology: The Complete Guide to Extraterrestrials, the latest book in the 17-million selling Ology series.
The leading children’s publisher is pushing new frontiers with the book, which will be complemented by a unique digital experience that will allow readers to turn their mobile phones into ‘Intergalactic Communicators’ to receive incoming alien transmissions. SMS ringtones and animated alien cards can be downloaded and traded using a mobile phone. These are football trading cards for the new generation! Meanwhile, a visit to the OlogyWorld website will allow readers access to an online, interactive ‘book’, where users can play games, explore the Space Station of the Intergalactic Council and create their own Intergalactic Council ID card (see ‘Digital Experience’ below).
WE ARE NOT ALONE…
Have you ever wondered if your teacher, your pet, or even your parents might be aliens in disguise? Is it possible that NASA owes its achievements to extraterrestrials secretly passing on their advanced knowledge of space travel? What if H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds was, in fact, a blueprint for a planned alien invasion?
These are just some of the questions posed by shape-shifting Professor Allen Gray, the alien author of Alienology: The Complete Guide to Extraterrestrials.
Combining varying degrees of fact and fiction, Alienology is the ultimate guide to alien life and offers readers the chance to become members of S.P.A.C.E (the Society for the Promotion of Alien Contact with Earth).
Professor Gray tests readers to see who has what it takes to become a member of the Intergalactic Council and help save the world in the battle against S.L.I.M.E. (Surface-Living Intelligent Multiplying Endolith). Potential recruits must demonstrate their intelligence by exploring the universe and solving a series of out-of-this-world logic tests along the way, including brainteasers and alien codes.
Digital Experience
The Alienology ‘IIF’ experience has two strands:
1. SMS rewards
Text SPACE to 88880 to receive an exclusive** alien message – complete with ringtone and animated trading card from the Intergalactic Council (SMS active from 28 September 2010).
Users pay £10 (approx.) for a further 4 SMS downloads**. These are received as users progress through an Intergalactic Council mission, delivered as a downloadable Mission File. When the user has received all 5 downloads, he/she is entitled to upload a picture of him/herself to create an ‘Intergalactic ID Card’, which allows FREE access to the online interactive experience (see below).
2. Online Interactive Experience
Alternatively consumers can pay £4.99 to access the online interactive experience, which takes the form of a fact-packed recruit’s handbook to COSMOS 5, the space station of the Intergalactic Council. Recruits can explore the space station, discover the secrets of dark matter and play science-based games (such as ‘alien autopsy’ and ‘element mixing’) to discover their most fitting role on the council. They will also have the opportunity to create their own Intergalactic Council ID card and watch a personalised welcome message. This will be an option for those without a mobile phone or for those who have not yet purchased the book.
Campaign and online experience launches 28 September 2010.
** The standard messaging, data and downloading rates of your mobile phone network provider will apply to both your text and the downloading of any ringtone/other material. Permission from a parent / guardian / adult bill payer is required. To check your mobile phone compatibility and for full terms and conditions of participation, please go to www.ologyworld.com/aliensFAQ once campaign is live. |
| Aquila 2 |
Andrew Norriss
£6.99, Puffin
Aquila 2 is the long awaited sequel to Aquila which won the Whitbread Children's Award and was adapted into the popular TV Series. Aquila can you take you anywhere. It's getting back that can be tricky . . . Tom and Geoff still can't believe what they found on their school trip. Aquila is the lifepod from an alien starship that crashed to earth 6,000 years ago – but it still works, and it can fly them anywhere! After their trip to New York, the boys are eager for more fun, but with almost endless possibilities for excitement, will they be able to keep Aquila a secret for long? Or will a simple mistake reveal everything and ruin the fun forever?
Great fun adventure story keeps you wanting to know what happens next. My favourite line....'And so sometimes, that is how the really big adventures in life begin. Not with getting lost in New York, or travelling across the Atlantic at speeds of more than a mile a second, but with a man in a suit standing in your sitting room holding out his hand and saying 'hi'.'
Very popular in schools and libraries as it is enjoyed both by good readers and those reluctant or less confident. Age 8 years and upwards. |
| CANDY POP: CANDY AND THE BROKEN BISCUITS |
Lauren Laverne
£6.99, Harper Collins
Giggle-a-minute rock chick-lit from award winning music presenter Lauren Laverne!
Candy Caine is meant for bigger things. She should be packing up everything into a backpack, leaping into the back of a transit van and living in a warehouse with Pixie Geldorf look-alikes… In other words, Candy should be a rock chick! But for now she’s stuck in dullsville, visiting an old people’s home for life advice and suffering torment at school over her Winehouse style hairdo. What’s worse is that mum’s about to marry nerdy Ray, and the last thing Candy’s street cred needs is dork dad. So she does the only thing she can do – she holds auditions for a new rock band in her kitchen and sets out to find her real dad, a man she’s sure she’ll find on stage at this year’s Glastonbury, rather than behind the wheel of El Passo Driving School!
Joined by her surprising new Fairy Godbrother, dead 80s rock legend Clarence Major and band members Dish Boy Callum, and Billy “The Hog” Hodgkinson, Candy starts preparation for Battle of the Bands. Can they make it to Glastonbury? Will Candy find BioDad?? And will she ever be able to sort out her mad untameable barnet?!
With a sparky new teen heroine, Laverne presents a plateful of delicious rock-lit that will leave you desperate to try the next Candy-tastic instalment!
The Author:
Lauren Laverne started her career in 90s punk band Kenickie, before she began appearing as a presenter on shows such as CD:UK, Never Mind the Buzzcocks and The Culture Show as well as coverage for V Festival, T in the Park and Glastonbury. She’s also presented extensively on the radio, including Xfm and BBC 6 music. During her career she has won several awards, including Sony Music Competition of the Year and NTL Commercial Radio Newcomer of the Year.
She began writing again recently after encouragement from her husband (who said “you’re an excellent speller”) and now is a Grazia columnist and has written for the Guardian as well as turning her pen to the brilliant Candy Pop trilogy.
"When I was a kid, all I ever wanted to be was an author. To be writing a book of my own is absolutely wonderful (and, like most things worth doing, occasionally terrifying)”. Lauren Laverne
Hear Lauren talk about the book…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Aga618F-34
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| Glitterwings Fairy in Danger |
Titania Woods
£5.99, Bloomsbury Publishing
Glitterwings Academy launched in April 2008. The tales of Twink and her friends at fairy school tap into the older age range of the fairy market with their strong moral values and traditional adventures. There are fourteen books in the series plus a Christmas special. This July Bloomsbury is delighted to be publishing the final book in the series.
FAIRY IN DANGER - Publication Date: 5th July 2010 -
Price: 5.99
Twink is exploring Glitterwings Academy when she comes across an intriguing little room full of carvings and a dark-haired fairy called Shadow. Shadow is not a Glitterwings student, but she has a job for Twink. Excited, Twink sets out only to discover that this is a job far more dangerous than Shadow outlined.
This series is perfect for young readers ready to move on from first chapter books. Parents will be delighted by the quality of the writing. The sparkly covers and charming illustrations are sure to entrance and bedazzle fans of all things magical.
Titania Woods is the pen-name for Lee Weatherly. Lee is a respected author of teen fiction, including the novels Child X and Missing Abby, and is the winner of the Sheffield Teen Book Award. Lee was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, and now lives in Basingstoke.
www.glitterwingsacademy.co.uk
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| Where's Wally? The Wonder Book: Book 5 |
Martin Handford
£6.99, Walker Books
Hey Wally watchers! Join the hunt for Wally in this wonderful adventure!
Take the Wally challenge and go up and down the Corridors of Time, wander the Fantastic Flower Garden, witness the Mighty Fruit Fight, visit Clown Town and see many other wondrous Wodnerlands! Wally and friends are hiding in every detailed scene. Full of eye-boggling extras and hours of fun, this fifth classic Wally adventure comes with a striking new cover. Wow! Amazing!
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| Where's Wally? In Hollywood: Book 4 |
Martin Handford
£6.99, Walker Books
Lights, camera, action! Join the hunt for Wally in Hollywood!
Wow! Wally and his friends are in the land where dreams are made, and they're hidden in every intricately-detailed scene. So let the hunt begin! Full of eye-boggling extras and hours of fun, this fourth classic Wally adventure comes with a striking new cover. Amazing!
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| Where's Wally? The Fantastic Journey: Book 3 |
Martin Handford
£6.99, Walker Books
Wow! Face the most fiendish and fantastical Wally challenge yet!
Join Wally on his quest through magical and bizarre fanatsy lands. Hidden in every intricately-detailed scene are Wally and his friends - so let the hunt begin! Full of eye-boggling extras and hours of fun, this third classic Wally adventure comes with a striking new cover. Amazing!
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| Where's Wally Now? Book 2 |
Martin Handford
£6.99, Walker Books
Lost for thousands of years. Hidden among thousands of people. Let the search for Wally begin ... again!
Wally-Watchers, get ready to dive into the past - and maybe the future - on your search for the mischevious Wally and friends. Full of eye-boggling extras and hours of fun, this second classic Wally adventure comes with a striking new cover. Wow! Amazing!
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| Where's Wally? Book 1 |
Martin Handford
£6.99, Walker Books
Start the search for Wally in the original eye-boggling classic for readers five years and over!
The hunt for Wally is on! Wally, along with his friends, are fiendishly hidden in every intricately-detailed scene. Hours of fun and games await in this classic activity book - complete with striking new cover - that kickstarted a worldwide phemonenon.
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| The Littlest Dinosaur and the Naughty Rock |
Camilla Reid
£5.99, Bloomsbury
The third title featuring the delightful littlest dinosaur, but this time he’s not being quite as good as he should!
The littlest dinosaur is in a bad mood. He sulks, shouts and throws his food on the ground. When he’s sent to the naughty rock, he gets a bit of a surprise and some very helpful advice on how to handle his sulkiness.
A perfect book that will ring a bell with every family who has wrestled with a toddler’s temper! |
| Lulu's Loo |
Camilla Reid
£6.99, Bloomsbury
Lulu does potty-training! Join in with Lulu’s toilet adventures as she learns how to use potties and proper loos.
Lulu is given a special present by Mummy – her very own potty. Lulu does her first wee-wee in the potty. Soon she’s sitting on her potty everywhere – in the kitchen, in her bedroom, in the playroom, even in the garden! Then Lulu graduates from wearing nappies to wearing big girl knickers and using the big toilet, with a few tiny accidents along the way.
An utterly fabulous interactive book for potty-training toddlers from the author of 'Drat that Fat Cat!' |
| Penny on Safari |
Eileen O'Hely
€8.99, Mercier Press
Ralph, Sarah and the rest of their class visit the zoo. Despite the fabulous attractions on offer they learn that the zookeeper may be forced to close his business and make way for a factory that creates Texta pens. With Black Texta doing everything in his power to make sure the zoo does close, Penny and her friends are forced to take action to try and stop him, but will they succeed and save the zoo? Find out in this wonderful new addition to the "Penny the Pencil Series".
Eileen O'Hely is Australian born to Irish parents and the best-selling author of the five Penny the Pencil books. Nicky Phelan is animation director at Brown Bag Films, home to Give Up Your Oul Sins and The Maceys. |
| Tiger Boots |
Joe O'Brien
£6.99, O'Brien Press
'Enjoy your football and you'll always be a winner!' yelled the coach. The Crokes are doing well in the football league this season, but off the pitch things aren't so good; Danny's dad, the Crokes' coach, is having a hard time - he's worried about his job, and his friends' daughter, Clara, is sick and needs an expensive operation. But GAA is like one big family, and when Danny and the Crokes hear that Clara is the captain of her GAA team in Boston, they're determined to raise money for her.
Despite some hitches along the way - like trouble with Trinity, the girl he has his eye on - between training, school and a fundraising football marathon, Danny and the Crokes make this a season to remember!
Joe O'Brien is the author of the first two books about GAA player, Danny Wilde, "Little Croker" and "Feile Fever". He is also the author of the popular "Alfie Green" series for younger readers. |
| The Funfair of Fear! - A Measle Stubbs Adventure |
Ian Ogilvy
£5.99, Scholastic
Measle's back on another rollercoaster of an adventure!
Poor Measle Stubbs . . . just when things are looking up for a change, the mysterious Dragodon and his gang of wicked wrathmonks cast a spell on Measle's dad and snatch his mum. So now it's up to Measle and his little dog, Tinker, to rescue her from the spooky theme park - The Isle of Smiles. Being hunted down by horrors in a dark, wet funfair is anything but fun! But Measle's on a mission with more ups and downs than any rollercoaster, and he's determined to save the day.
The second instalment of the fantastic Measle Stubbs Adventures for readers aged eight years and over. |
| The Train Set of Terror! - A Measle Stubbs Adventure 1 |
Ian Ogilvy
£5.99, Scholastic
Meet Measle Stubbs, the small hero on a BIG adventure!
Measle Stubbs is not a boy known for his good luck. He's thin and weedy and hasn't had a bath for years - and he has to live with his horrible old guardian, Basil Tramplebone. Just when Measle thinks things can't get any worse, he's zapped into the world of Basil's toy train set. There's something lurking in the rafters and a giant cockroach is on his trail - it's times like these you need a few friends . . . and a plan!
Children aged eight years and over will enjoy joining Measle and his dog Tinker in their first incredible adventure. |
| Night Iceberg, The |
Helen Stephens
£6.99, Scholastic
It's hard when you have to share everything with your baby brother. Tofta doesn't want to at all. So when an iceberg drifts past her window, she decides that it's her iceberg and she's not going to share it with anyone. But when five hundred playful penguins turn up, Tofta finds that sharing can be great fun, too. A funny, atmospheric story about learning to share. With stunning, fresh illustrations by the author/illustrator of the award-winning FLEABAG.
Sutiable for two to six year old children. |
| Fever Crumb |
Philip Reeve
£6.99, Scholastic
FEVER CRUMB is set many generations before the events of Mortal Engines, in whose dazzling world huge, predatory cities chase and devour each other. Now, London is a riot-torn, ruinous town, clinging to a devastated landscape and hiding an explosive secret. Is Fever, adopted daughter of Dr Crumb, the strange key that will unlock its dangerous mysteries?
Suitable for readers over 10 years of age. |
| A Web of Air |
Philip Reeve
£8.99, Scholastic
Two years ago, Fever Crumb escaped the war-torn city of London in a travelling theatre. Now she arrives in the extraordinary crater city of Mayda, where buildings ascend the cliffs on funicular rails, and a mysterious recluse is building a machine that can fly. Fever is the engineer he needs – but ruthless enemies will kill to possess their secrets.
In a faraway corner of a ruined world, a mysterious boy is building a flying machine. Birds help him, and so does a beautiful, brilliant, half-human engineer called Fever Crumb. But powerful enemies stalk them - either to possess their revolutionary invention, or to destroy the secrets of flight forever. The breathtaking new story from the awesome world of MORTAL ENGINES.
Suitable for readers over 10 years of age. |
| You Can't Eat A Princess |
Gillian Rogerson
£6.99, Scholastic
When King Cupcake is kidnapped by hungry aliens, it's up to his feisty daughter, Princess Spaghetti, to save him from becoming their dinner. She blasts off into space to show those naughty aliens who's boss – and introduces them to a delicious alternative to people: chocolate! This hilarious romp will delight chocolate-lovers everywhere.
Suitable for three to six year olds. |
| Dogs Go Shopping |
Sharon Rentta
£6.99, Scholastic
There's something for every dog at this special doggy department store, but it's still tricky finding the perfect present for Daddy's birthday. Going shopping with Mummy has never been so much fun, with loads of daft doggy details to find on the way.
Suitable for two to six year olds. |
| Skullduggery Pleasant: Dark Days |
Derek Landy
£12.99, Harper Collins
It’s the fourth Skulduggery Pleasant adventure… only Skulduggery Pleasant himself is lost on the other side of a portal, with only some evil gods for company. Can he possible survive? (Yes, all right, he’s already dead. But still.)
Skulduggery Pleasant is gone, sucked into a parallel dimension overrun by the Faceless Ones. If his bones haven’t already been turned to dust, chances are he’s insane, driven out of his mind by the horror of the ancient gods. There is no official, Sanctuary-approved rescue mission. There is no official plan to save him. But Valkyrie's never had much time for plans. The problem is, even if she can get Skulduggery back, there might not be much left for him to return to. There’s a gang of villains bent on destroying the Sanctuary, there are some very powerful people who want Valkyrie dead, and as if all that wasn’t enough it looks very likely that a sorcerer named Darquesse is going to kill the world and everyone on it. Skulduggery is gone. All our hopes rest with Valkyrie. The world’s weight is on her shoulders, and its fate is in her hands. These are dark days indeed.
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| The Heart and the Bottle |
Oliver Jeffers
£10.99, Harper Collins
Award-winning picture book star Oliver Jeffers explores themes of love and loss in this life-affirming and uplifting tale.
Once there was a girl who was full of wonderment at how the world worked. She shared all her dreams and excitement with her father, who always had the answer to every question. That is until one day when his chair was empty, not to be filled again - how would the girl ever find meaning from her life again?
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| Thin Executioner, The |
Darren Shan
£12.99, Harper Collins
A brilliant and brand new story of swords, sand and sorcery from the endless imagination that brought you The Saga of Darren Shan and the Demonata. New characters – same excitement, action and terror…
In a harsh, unforgiving world of slavery and glorified executions, one boy's humiliation leads him to embark on a perilous quest to the faraway lair of a mysterious god. It is a dark, brutal, nightmarish journey which few have ever survived. But to Jebel Rum, the risk is worth it…
to retrieve his honour…
to win the hand of the girl he loves…
to wield unimaginable power…
and to become…
THE THIN EXECUTIONER
Darren Shan is the author of the monsterific ten book series known as ‘The Demonata’ and the twelve book vampire series 'The Saga of Darren Shan'. His adventures have been read by millions of people around the world in several different languages, yet much of his life remains shrouded in mystery. He lives in seclusion in the depths of Ireland. And he never drinks blood. Or so he claims. |
| Lulu the Big Little Chick |
Paulette Bogan
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Lulu the chick is little . . . but wants to be big! A charming picture book about wanting to be big and brave, yet accepting that it’s all right to still need reassurance
Lulu is fed up of all the farmyard animals always telling her that she’s too small to do things, so she decides to run away. When the horse, sheep and cow seem to get in her away, Lulu becomes even more determined to leave. But what will happen when she finally goes far, far away without Mummy?
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| Magical Mischief |
Anna Dale
£6.99, Bloomsbury
How do you deal with magic? Magic that has got completely out of control and taken over your shop and your home? This is the challenge facing Mr Hardbattle and his new friends, thirteen-year-old Arthur and Miss Quint!
Hardbattle Books is no ordinary bookshop. Magic has settled there in every corner and over the years has brought chaos to Mr Hardbattle’s life and driven away most of his customers. His livelihood threatened, Mr Hardbattle is finally forced to take action. Together, Mr Hardbattle, the resourceful and down-to-earth Arthur and Miss Quint embark upon a quest to find a new home for the magic! |
| Fetlocks Hall 2: The Ghostly Blinkers |
Babette Cole
£5.99, Walker Books
The second title in this pony school series, where ponies and magic are wonderfully combined in a fun fantasy storyline
Fetlocks Hall is in trouble! The school is desperately short of funds and, unless some money can be found, it may have to close! The Headmistress is not sure what to do. Penny is determined to help and draws on her magical powers in a nail-biting bid to solve the problem. Soon Penny and the ghosts, as well as many of the school’s ponies, are involved in an exciting race to the finish! |
| Fetlocks Hall 1: The Unicorn Princess |
Babette Cole
£5.99, Walker Books
The first title in a brand-new pony school series, which wonderfully combines ponies and magic in a fun fantasy storyline
Penny Simms is pony-mad and is thrilled when she wins a scholarship to Fetlocks Hall, an equestrian boarding school. But Fetlocks Hall is no ordinary school – besides schoolwork and riding lessons, Penny has the opportunity to acquire secret knowledge about horses as well as find out about the magical unicorn world of Equitopia. Soon she is caught up in a desperate struggle to help the unicorns combat a terrible plot by the evil Devlipeds, who are plotting to overthrow them. Is Penny the Unicorn Princess whose arrival is predicted by the King of the Unicorns? Can she defeat the Devlipeds and save the unicorns and the pony world? |
| Operation Robot Storm |
Alex Milway
£5.99, Walker Books
Something strange is happening in the Welsh mountains. It should be the middle of summer, but Snowdonia has been beseiged by blizzards and ice storms. A company of Arctic-trained soldiers sent to investigate has disappeared and the only remaining hope is a secret troop of yeti agents - the Mythical 9th Division. Fully illustrated, and with a four-page comic-strip introduction to each chapter, this exciting first story also comes with a top-secret yeti code-breaker!
Three yetis are about to save the world in this hilarious new series by Alex Milway for readers seven years and over. |
| Great Space Race, The |
Joshua Mowll
£7.99, Walker Books
A crazy world domination conspiracy is uncovered and foiled by the most unlikely family on Earth in this highly entertaining and madcap adventure. The Crankshaws have finally hit rock bottom. The family are stony broke, their belongings have been snaffled by the bailiffs and their house, The Mill, is about to be re-possessed. And although Dad's Soviet fighter jet-propelled BBQ may well be the planet's most innovative solution to fast food (extra fast food), it is not the family's ticket out of financial doom and gloom. Not yet...
So it is that fourteen-year-old Ace Crankshaw devises a secret money-making scheme of his own - the answer to all their problems, he thinks - a grandiose plan that will at last lift the Crankshaw's curse. He will enter and win the most sensational race the world has ever seen! Zircon's Great Space Race! With Barry (a monkey-toy robot) for technical support, Jake (his fart-brewing best mate) on rocket research duties and their arch-enemy, Zack Zircon, running the gig...what on Earth could possibly go wrong? |
| The Disgusting Adventures of Fleabag Monkeyface 5: Moldfinger |
Knife and Packer
£4.99, Walker Books
Prepare for another attack of Gross-Out as our terrific trio return in their fifth adventure.
Having defeated killer earwax, sewer monsters, fairies and aliens, Gene, Gerald and Fleabag are on the hunt for an evil genius who is stealing the world's compost. In this hilarious James Bond-style parody, they pursue the compost to the villain's lair on Fungipelago. Once there, they uncover a dastardly plot to destroy the world!
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| The Boy Who Climbed Into The Moon |
David Almond
£9.99, Walker Books
Paul believes that the moon is not the moon, but is a great hole in the sky. It’s one of many strange ideas that he’s never told anyone (at school he was told that he had no ideas at all), until he meets Molly, his irrepressible neighbour, who begins to convince him that his theory might just change the world. Helped by a very long ladder, some highly irregular characters, two rather worried parents and a great deal of community spirit, Paul takes to the sky. But his astonishing discovery there can’t keep him away for long – what is waiting for him back at home is turning out to be better than he’d ever imagined…
A magnificent tale of crackpot notions and sky-high courage – from David Almond, the master of magical realism, with illustrations by major new talent, Polly Dunbar, for readers seven years and over. |
| I'm the Best |
Lucy Cousins
£11.99, Walker Books
Can Dog's friends teach him to be less of a show-off? Find out in this brilliantly original picture book from Lucy Cousins, creator of Maisy.
Dog loves his friends. He thinks they’re brilliant. But he also thinks that he’s the best, and he just won’t stop telling them! So what happens when his friends decide to teach him a lesson, by showing him all the things they are best at?
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| Where's Wally? The Incredible Paper Chase |
Martin Handford
£6.99, Puffin
The seventh classic title in the internationally famous Where's Wally? series.
The search for Wally and his friends continues through more astounding scenes in this new classic title in the Where's Wally? series. Featuring a fold-out Muddy Swampy Jungle Game, with press out counters and tongue-twister forfeit cards, and a press-out circus for Wally fans to put on their very own show. This is the most interactive Where's Wally? title ever.
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| A Busy, Busy Day in Tinga Tinga |
Tinga Tinga Tales
£7.99, Puffin
If you think you never know, Tinga Tinga answers all your whys.
All the animals in Tinga Tinga are busily preparing for the Festival of Colours. All the animals that is except Elephant, who can't quite understand what all the commotion is about!
With flaps on every page and a gorgeous pop-up finale, this novelty book is a perfect introduction to the world of Tinga Tinga.
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| Moominsummer Madness |
Tove Jansson
£12.99, Puffin
A great flood wave threatens Moomin Valley!
When the Moomin family is flooded out of its home, the Moomins set about finding themselves a new one. And being resourceful little creatures, they soon find a very original one: a floating theatre!
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| Hairy Maclary and Zachary Quack |
Lynley Dodd
£5.99, Puffin
Zachary Quack, a small and determined duckling, sets out to play with a rather reluctant Hairy Maclary. A 'cat and mouse' chase follows, with the two characters ending up peacefully snuggled together after Zachary Quack has saved a soggy Hairy Maclary from the river.
Suitable for three to five year olds. |
| Happy Holiday, Hammy the Wonder Hamster! |
Poppy Harris
£4.99, Puffin
Hammy is a very special hamster. He's probably the brainiest hamster in the whole world and Bethany can't wait to take him on holiday with her.
Hammy is very excited too - it will be his first trip to the seaside and he can't wait to dig lots of hamster tunnels deep down in the sand! But it's far too easy to lose a little hamster on a very big beach and Bethany isn't the only person who wants to find Hammy...
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| Foul Play: Off Side |
Tom Palmer
£5.99, Puffin
When Danny Harte finds out there's been an anonymous foreign buy-out of his favourite club, City, he's furious - the fans were about to buy it themselves. The club is being secretive and Danny is determined to find out what's going on - until he's caught staking out the club by the police and cautioned. His parents are furious, and his friends too. No one is talking to him.
But when Danny discovers Adam, a kid from Ghana, dumped by his agent who'd promised him a place as a junior at City, and lost in a foreign country he knows nothing about, Danny realizes there are worse ways of being alone. He decides to take Adam's story to the press - with terrifying consequences for them both . .
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| Skating School: Sapphire Skate Fun |
Linda Chapman
£4.99, Puffin
Welcome to a magical world where dreams come true. . .
Brand new pupils arrive at the magical skating school for some sparkling new adventures!
Suitable for five to eight year olds. |
| Skating School: Amber Skate Star |
Linda Chapman
£4.99, Puffin
Welcome to a magical world where dreams come true. . .
Brand new pupils arrive at the magical skating school for some sparkling new adventures!
Suitable for five to eight year olds. |
| Magic Puffin: A Birthday Surprise |
Sue Bentley
£3.99, Pocket Money Puffin
Splash, the youngest of the magic puffins, has been caught in a storm and can't get back to Silver Dream Cliffs. Luckily for the little lost puffin, he meets Martina and the two become best friends. Together they try to find a way for Splash to return home - but first there is the problem of the puffin egg-stealers...
A delightfully warm and endearing story, specially written for Puffin's 70th birthday by the creator of bestselling Magic Kitten, Magic Puppies and Magic Ponies series.
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| Monstroso |
Charlie Higson
£3.99, Pocket Money Puffin
Oscar is not looking forward to Grandad coming to look after him at the weekend - it means he'll have to play endless rounds of chess or Monopoly, instead of war games on his computer. But when he finds Dad's ancient laptop in the study, he can't resist logging on to something called Project X - and all too soon Oscar creates a real live warrior, who is programmed to obey his every command. However Monstroso's wires are more than a little crossed, and Oscar finds himself in all sorts of trouble...
Crazy fighting and monsters abound in Charlie's Higson's highly entertaining story for younger readers.
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| Virtual Kombat |
Chris Bradford
£3.99, Pocket Money Puffin
Young Samurai meets The Matrix
Scott is selected as a games tester by Vince Power, creator of Virtual Kombat, the most realistic martial-arts video game ever invented. But when friend and rival Kate fails to return from the Virtual Arena, Scott begins to wonder if it's more than just a game…
A thrilling adventure from Chris Bradford, creator of the bestselling Young Samurai series.
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| Silly Cecil and Clever Cubs |
Jeanne Willis
£3.99, Pocket Money Puffin
Sir Cecil is a pompous pedigree cat who can't believe it when scruffy Mr Cubs turns up uninvited at Futtock Mansion and refuses to leave. But then Mr Cubs agrees to help Sir Cecil fulfil a lifelong dream - with hilariously disastrous results . . .
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| We Want to be on the Telly |
Jeremy Strong
£3.99, Pocket Money Puffin
The hilariously funny story of Heathrow (affectionately named after London's airport) whose TOTALLY EMBARRASSING parents will do anything to be on TV, even if it involves rice pudding or a racing car or a rhinoceros! But in the end it's Heathrow's quick thinking that makes the news headlines!
Laugh your socks off with this highly silly story specially for Pocket Money Puffins.
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| Secret Football Club, The |
Tom Palmer
£3.99, Pocket Money Puffin
James, Lily and friends have had some bad news - football is now banned at their school. But they all love football! So if they're not allowed to kick a ball the playground, they'll have to find another way to play - in secret . . . |
| Spotty Powder & other Splendiferous Secrets |
Roald Dahl
£3.99, Pocket Money Puffin
A treasure trove of Dahl! Amazing facts - some funny, some silly - and an original chapter from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory make this a splendiferous, surprising and delicious treat from the wonderful world of Roald Dahl! |
| Sing a Song of Bottoms! |
Jeanne Willis
£6.99, Puffin
Join Jeanne Willis in the funniest talent show ever. In a fabulous rhyming text, meet bears with baggy bottoms, pigs with perky pinky ones and peacocks who love to put theirs on display. Perfect for reading aloud and guaranteed to cause fits of giggles, one thing's for sure - whoever is the winner, bottoms are top!
From the dynamic duo behind Bottoms Up!
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| Magic Bunny: Chocolate Wishes |
Sue Bentley
£4.99, Puffin
Fluffy white bunny Arrow is the keeper of the magic key that keeps the meadow lush and beautiful so that many bunnies can live there happily. But the key is under threat and so Arrow must flee the meadow to keep it safe and hide in our world.
Can Arrow find a little girl to look after him and be a special friend?
Suitable for five to eight year old readers. |
| Daizy Star and the Pink Guitar |
Cathy Cassidy
£4.99, Puffin
Meet the one and only Daizy Star!
Daizy is ready to dazzle everyone with her brand-new pink guitar - maybe she'll even find her star quality!
But then Dad comes up with another crazy idea, which means swapping happy family life for milking African goats. Eeeek! Daizy needs a clever plan . . . she's got to win the Battle of the Bands, or she can say goodbye to all her friends, sleepovers and - worst of all - custard doughnuts . .
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| Dexter Bexley and the Big Blue Beastie on the Road |
Joel Steard
£10.99, Doubleday Children's Books
Dexter Bexley and the Big Blue Beastie on the Road is the
second Dexter Bexley book from award-winning author and
illustrator Joel Stewart. The first book, Dexter Bexley and the Big Blue Beastie, won the Nestle Children’s Book Prize Bronze Award and was shortlisted for the Booktrust Early Years Award (Pre-School category) in 2007. Nicolette Jones of the Sunday Times described the book as “an inspired celebration of imaginative play. It is comic, suspenseful ... and Stewart’s grainy, surreal, retro images are a delight”.
Now, Joel Stewart is back with another glorious tale involving Dexter Bexley and the Big Blue Beastie, but this time, they are on the road! Having been thrown out of town because of their loud hooting, Dexter Bexley and the Big Blue Beastie are on the road in search of adventure. And what could be more adventurous than a deep, dark
forest, a sleeping beauty and a tap-dancing dragon?
Joel Stewart was brought up in a commune in the wilds of Yorkshire. In the year 2000, he graduated with a first class degree in Illustration from Falmouth College of Art. Since graduating he has been writing and drawing for a living, and has recently moved into animation design and directing for television. |
| The Case of the Missing Garlic, Mr Smith Invents a Robot, The Search of the Stinky Pong |
Shibani Mohindra
£5.99, Smelly Books
Phewie! Here’s a whole new, and very smelly, dimension to story time. The Smelly Book Company have come up with a great new and fun way of getting kids to love books. “Scratch and Sniff” has been around for ages but this is the first time we’ve come across an application where not only are the smells realistic but the smell lasts for the lifetime of the book. They are of course fully tested and completely safe and non-toxic, with some smelling lovely and others definitely not so pleasant! For children of course, the stinkier the smell, the better the fun! The stories are good too with clever story lines to amuse, educate and entertain. Scratch, Sniff and Mr Smith are characters that have been developed for the books by author Shibani Mohindra, and illustrated by Sue Sansom. Scratch the cat is not only lavender in colour, he smells of lavender too! What’s more, each book comes complete with a set of 16 ‘smell and tell’ stickers that children can enjoy and share with their friends. The books are available in good bookshops and online with a recommended price of £5.99. There are currently three Scratch, Sniff and Mr Smith books available, with the fourth coming out in late spring 2010. Visit www.thesmellybookcompany.com for more information. |
| Adam and the Arkonauts |
Dominic Barker
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Introducing an inspired villain for whom world domination doesn’t stop at humans: he wants to control the animals too (“Then I go after the plants!”) vs Adam, a normal boy with an unusual skill. He is our only hope.
A brilliant young biologist Dr Seth Forest travels to South America with his wife and son, determined to solve the greatest mystery of the natural world, the secret of communicating with animals. He cracks the code, but triumph is short-lived when his wife is kidnapped by the evil Professor Scabelax. Ever since, the Doctor and his son Adam (now fluent in many animal languages) have sailed the world searching for her. Then they receive news that a woman matching Adam’s mother’s description left a letter with authorities in a city on the other side of the world.
Unknown to Adam and the Doctor, Scabelax has lured them to the city to complete his terrible plan for world domination. As the different elements of the plot converge, a spectacular finale awaits . . .
Adam and the Arkonauts is a welcome return to a brilliantly funny author whose characters fill the page with warmth and humour, while keeping the reader engrossed as to how the mystery will unravel. From the bestselling author of the BLART and MICKEY SHARP novels. |
| Street Child |
Berlie Doherty
£5.99, Harper Collins
Read the story of Jim Jarvis, the boy whose plight inspired Dr Barnardo to found his famous children's homes. Now published into the Essential Modern Classics list. When his mother dies Jim Jarvis is left all alone in London. He is sent to the workhouse, but quickly escapes chosing a hard life on the streets of the city over the confines of the workhouse walls.
Struggling to survive, Jim finally finds some friends only to be snatched away and made to work for the remorselessly cruel Grimy Nick, constantly guarded by his vicious dog, Snipe. Will Jim ever manage to be free? |
| What's For Dinner, Mr Gum? |
Andy Stanton
£5.99, Egmont
Well, Shabba Me whiskers! Mr Gum's back! But what's he up to this time? Oh, dreadful things my friends, dreadful things indeed. It seems he's found himself a brand new treat - rancid kebabs just dripping with dirty grey sauce. And he just can't get enough of them. He's gotta have more! More! Less! I mean, More! But not everyone's too happy about Mr Gum's new dinnertime arrangements and soon the town of Lamonic Bibber is gearing up for war. Can Polly and her friends save the town from being torn apart? Will Mr Gum's hunger ever be satisfied? And who on earth is Thora Gruntwinkle? All will be revealed when you read "What's For Dinner, Mr Gum?"
You'll see a gingerbread man driving through London! You'll see an annoying little monkey driving everyone mad! You'll see Friday O'Leary falling asleep in a hedge! Yes, it's all there in glorious black and white, my friends. Except for the cover, which is in colour. It's Bonus. |
| Winnie's Amazing Pumpkin |
Valerie Thomas & Korky Paul
£5.99, Oxford
Winnie and Wilbur love their vegetables. They are regulars at the weekly farmers' market to stock up on their greens, but bringing them back home on a broomstick proves to be rather hazardous. So Winnie decides to grow her own and digs a vegetable patch in her garden. Not having the patience of a true gardener, she uses a little magic to speed up the growing process . . . only to end up with a garden overrun by enormous vegetables.
She uses her giant pumpkin to make pumpkin pies, pumpkin scones, creamy pumpkin soup for Wilbur, and dish after dish of roast pumpkin. She invites all her neighbours to help themselves to pumpkin, too. Eventually the yummy orange flesh is all gone but the shell remains. What can Winnie do with it? She waves her wand, shouts 'Abracadabra!', and something amazing happens . . . |
| Winnie's Jokes |
Valerie Thomas & Korky Paul
£3.99, Oxford
How does an intruder get into Winnie's house? Intruder windows. What does an Australian witch ride on? A broomerang. With pages chock-full of Winnie's and Wilbur's favourites, Winnie's Jokes will leave children in stitches.
Great for sharing with family and friends - a side-splitting selection of jokes for Winnie fans. |
| What Small Rabbit Heard |
Sheryl Webster & Tim Warnes
£10.99, Oxford
Small Rabbit's grumpiness is blown away on a windy day!
Small Rabbit has decided it's too windy for a walk.But Big Rabbit takes him outside,all the same. The wind howls. Whoooo! So when Big Rabbit calls out,'Stay with me, please!' her words are blown away and what Small Rabbit hears is,'Roll in the leaves!' Small Rabbit does everything he thinks he's being asked to do - and he's never had so much fun!
A lovely story from a talented new author that really engages its audience.
Children will love to guess what might happen each time
Small Rabbit fails to hear what Big Rabbit asks him to do.
Small Rabbit's character is beautifully drawn and toddlers will enjoy seeing how his mood changes as the story develops.
Lots of charming detail to notice in the pictures on repeated readings.
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| Puddle's Big Step |
Amber Stewart & Layn Marlow
£10.99, Oxford
A reassuring first-day-at-school story set in an adorable duckling world.
Puddle is a little duckling. He longs to go to school. But when his first day approaches he is suddenly not so sure. After all, starting school is a very big step. In this charming story Puddle's worries turn to smiles as Mummy packs enough love and support into his school bag to take him through the day.
Starting school is an important event for children everywhere and here it is explored with realism and sensitivity, and lots of lovely detail in the illustrations.
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| Christopher Nibble |
Chrlotte Middleton
£5.99, Oxford
Christopher Nibble is a little guinea pig on a big mission!
The guinea pigs of Dandeville love munching dandelion leaves so much that dandelions are disappearing from all over town. Christopher Nibble knows that crunch time has come when there's just one dandelion left-but will this plucky little guinea pig have the flower power to save the day? An eco-friendly tale to entertain the youngest readers.
Guinea pigs are the fifth most popular pet species worldwide and, with the release of Disney's major animation, G-Force, in summer 2009, the popularity of guinea pigs is set to explode.
In the UK, guinea pigs are the second most popular small furry pet, just behind rabbits. It is estimated that there are around 0.5 million pet guinea pigs in the UK.
From the members of the jury in Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Beatrix Potter's poem, 'The Amiable Guinea Pig', to Michael Bond's Olga da Polga, guinea pigs hold a special place in children's literature but, surprisingly, there are very few picture books that feature these cute, cuddly pets so Christopher Nibble is guaranteed to stand out among a crowd of mice and bunnies.
Christopher Nibble has been selected as the Judges' Top Choice in the picture-book category of Scholastic Best Books 2009 which will be revealed in a 'Read Me' supplement in the November issues of both Child Education Plus and Junior Education Plus magazines.
From the Warhol-esque endpapers to the collage cabbages and Christopher's enviable wardrobe of patterned shorts, Charlotte Middleton's illustrations are stylish and unique.
Charlotte Middleton's accessible illustrations will also inspire children to make their own collage pictures using fabrics, patterned papers, and even pressed flowers.
There are very few picture books that deal with environmental issues, and even fewer that manage to keep the tone fun and funky. The message in Christopher Nibble is delivered in a witty and light-hearted manner.
The story encourages young children to think about what they eat, conservation, and ecological awareness - all important life skills to develop from the earliest age.
A book that celebrates simple pleasures for children and parents to share - from visiting the library, to picnicking, to blowing the seedlings from dandelion clocks! |
| Wobble Bear Gets Busy |
Ian Whybrow & Caroline Jayne Church
£5.99, Oxford
Say hello to a bear who just loves to walk!
From the moment Wobble Bear wakes up he just wants to walk! He walks in Mummy's shoes and on Daddy's bed, he walks to music, he walks to the park where he walks through a puddle, and walks with the ducks. What a busy day! Will Wobble Bear still want to walk when it's time for bed?
Features:-
An adorable character, who immediately strikes a chord with parents and toddlers alike.
Rhythmic, rhyming, bouncy text, perfect for reading out loud.
Appealing and stylish artwork from an acclaimed artist whose books have sold over a quarter of a million copies in home and export sales.
Re-issued with new cover artwork from Caroline Jayne Church, new endpapers and new typography throughout.
Written by Ian Whybrow, author of Harry and the Bucketful of Dinosaurs.
Wobble Bear Says Yellow, also available, has been selected by Bookstart for its Bookstart + Pack for toddlers.
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| Why the Animals Came to Town |
Michael Foreman
£11.99, Walker Books
Baboons and bison, beavers, bats, ostriches and meerkats: animals from all over the world have come to our street! One boy’s nocturnal visit from a parade of dancing animals warns us all that the world we share is in danger. With loveable illustrations and lilting rhythms, Michael Foreman has created a fun and beautiful book with a serious message.
A powerful environmental plea from one of Britain's finest illustrators for children aged four years and over. |
| Hooey Higgins and the Shark |
Steve Voake
£3.99, Walker Books
Welcome to a land called Shrimpton-on-Sea where the folks are a bit unusual and you can make friends with Hooey, Twig, Will and Dingbat the dog. Are they naughty, slightly scruffy boys? Yes they are. Will they do anything for a few quid? Yes they will. What’s so unusual about that, then? Well, it all starts with the giant chocolate egg, and then there's catching the shark in the flowery duvet cover and then Twig dresses up as a sea-urchin and gets chased through the knicker shop by Basbo the bully (boo, he's mean!) and then there's the big explosion and everything. But it all makes sense when you read it.
Like sharks? Like pants? Like to see a shark IN pants? Then Hooey Higgins is the series for you... seven years and over. |
| Girls FC 7: So what if I hog the ball? |
Helena Pielichaty
£4.99, Walker Books
Girls FC: the best team for football and friendship.
Ten-year-old Jenny-Jane Bayliss is fed up of everyone getting at her. If it's not her horrible family, it's her teacher or her football coach. All she wants to do is play football – why can't they all just leave her alone?
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| Triskellion 3: The Gathering |
Will Peterson
£6.99, Walker Books
Third and final instalment in the paranormal adventure trilogy...
Having narrowly escaped the clutches of the Hope Project, Rachel and Adam begin a new life in Australia. Their tranquillity is shattered, however, by the reappearance of Gabriel – and the terrifying adventure that they had hoped was over begins again. Hunted by enemies, old and new, their journey to discover the third, and final, Triskellion takes them home to New York, where they finally learn the chilling truth about their ancestry… |
| Scream Street 8: Attack of the Trolls |
Tommy Donbavand
£4.99, Walker Books
This is the eighth crazy adventure in this hugely popular comedy horror series for ghouls and girls! Now that Luke, Resus and Cleo have learnt how to rid Scream Street of invading normals, they're keen to begin their new quest right away. First stop, Count Negatov's castle! As the trio make their way through the bleak, mucky wilds of Transylvania, it seems that this adventure will be dull, but easy. Until, that is, they're kidnapped by trolls.
'Exactly the sort of grisly, gross and hilarious stuff that kids will love!' - Eoin Colfer. 'Lightning-paced, bloodcurdling fun. I wish I'd been able to visit Scream Street as a kid!' - Darren Shan. This title includes four free collector's cards inside. Wickedly funny Scream Street website is updated regularly with competitions, short stories and new issues of Scream Street's own newspaper, "The Terror Times". |
| Cloud Tea Monkeys |
Mal Peet and Elspeth Graham
£12.99, Walker Books
Tashi lives in a tiny village below the tea plantations where her mother earns a living. One day her mother falls ill, and Tashi must pick tea to earn the money for a doctor. But she is too small to reach the tender shoots and the cruel Overseer sends her away empty-handed. Tashi needs a miracle. Then, on the mountains high above the plantation where only monkeys live, something extraordinary happens that will change her life for ever…
Monkeys come to the rescue of a struggling family in this traditional tale from a Carnegie Medal winner for children aged four years and over. |
| Emma the Penguin |
Sarah Webb
£4.99, O'Brien Press
The school play was Noah’s Ark and Emma wanted to be a dog.
But the teacher said she was to be a penguin.
A penguin!
Emma was not pleased.
But being a penguin turned out
to be good fun, really.
Panda 38 - for readers aged five years plus.
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| Shamrock Sean - The Adventures of |
Brian Gogarty
£6.99, O'Brien Press
Shamrock Sean is a lively leprechaun from the West of Ireland.
He loves fishing and digging in his garden –
but you won’t find the crock of gold there.
Most of all, this loveable leprechaun
likes to lend a helping hand.
But, no matter what he does,
poor Sean always seems to land in BIG TROUBLE!
Three great Shamrock Sean adventures in one book:
Shamrock Sean and the Wishing Well
Shamrock Sean and the Bird’s Nest
Shamrock Sean Goes Fishing |
| Mad Grandad's Doppelganger |
Oisin McGann
£4.99, O'Brien Press
Grandad has lost his car and Lenny is helping him to look for it.
But Grandad is acting very strange ... even stranger than normal.
Lenny has to find out what’s wrong with Grandad. But that’s not all.
Something is following Lenny and Grandad
– and it’s not friendly …
Flyer 19 - for readers aged 6 years plus.
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| Alfie Green and the Chocolate Cosmos |
Joe O'Brien
£6.99, O'Brien Press
Budsville’s chocolate fair cancelled? No way, Alfie decides. The wise old plant tells him of the Roaring Rainforest in Arcania where he can collect chocolate seeds. But it won’t be easy. Alfie first has to brave the vicious Spider Plants and the Forest Ogre. And even if he escapes from them, the Chocolate Vine is waiting to catapult him through the gateway of the Chocolate Cosmos. Not even his crystal orchid will be able to save him then. |
| Heart and the Bottle, The |
Oliver Jeffers
£10.99, Harper Collins
Award-winning picture book star Oliver Jeffers explores themes of love and loss in this life-affirming, uplifting tale, due to be featured in a major motion picture. Once there was a girl who was full of wonderment at how the world worked. She shared all her dreams and excitement with her father, who always had the answer to every question. That is until one day when his chair was empty, not to be filled again - how would the girl ever find meaning from her life again?
Award winning talent Oliver Jeffers returns with a life-affirming tale of love and loss. |
| Ice Lolly |
Jean Ure
£5.99, Harper Collins
A heart-warming gem of a novel about a very special girl who suddenly finds herself all alone in the world! Laurel is only twelve when her mum dies and she is shipped off to stay with relatives she hardly knows. Her new family don't seem to care about anything Laurel loves, including books and Mr Pooter, her old marmalade-coloured cat. So Laurel decides that she won't feel anything: she'll become Ice Lolly, the girl with the frozen heart. But a special friend and a mysterious letter open up new possibilities for Ice Lolly, and for Mr Pooter! |
| Iggy and Me and the Happy Birthday |
Jenny Valentine
£4.99, Harper Collins
The second of a new series of young fiction by Jenny Valentine, winner of the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize for her debut novel, Finding Violet Park. More funny and endearing family stories featuring the the irrepressible 5-year-old IGGY as seen through the eyes of her big sister Flo, the ME of the title. Whether learning to swim, or playing at home, going on a day trip or baking birthday cakes, Iggy and Flo add sparkle to everyday activities.
Each chapter is a complete and satisfying story in its own right, perfect for newly-confident readers to enjoy alone, or for reading aloud at bedtime. Illustrated throughout in with black & white line drawings by Joe Berger, who was nominated for the Booktrust Early Years Award for his picture book, Bridget Fidget. |
| Skating School: Violet Skate Friends |
Linda Chapman
£4.99, Puffin Books
Welcome to a magical world where dreams come true . . .
Emily is thrilled with her place at ice-skating school - she loves the exciting routines and daring new steps.
Each girl wants to be the best skater and win a pair of dazzling violet skates. But when they're put into pairs, problems begin. Can Emily show them that friendship and working together is the greatest prize of all?
New series for five to eight year olds, other titles include:
White Skate Wishes
Silver Skate Surprise
Pink Skate Party
Scarlet Skate Magic
Blue Skate Dreams |
| Bridget the Fidget - Hold on Tight! |
Joe Berger
£5.99, Puffin Books
Bridget Fidget is in a FIX. She forgot to hold on tight to her beloved toy, Captain Cat, and lost him in a shop - disaster! Luckily, her friend Billy is there to save the day AND Captain Cat with his brand-new Superzoom 500 car. Quick, everyone, hold on tight!
With overtones of Shirley Hughes's classic Dogger, this is a hilarious comic caper from Joe Berger, World Book Day Illustrator 2010.
|
| Pigs in Planes: The Shark Bites Back |
Paul Cooper
£4.99, Puffin Books
Kweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep!
When the alarm squeal sounds it must be a job for Captain Peter Porker and the PIGS IN PLANES!
There's an emergency somewhere in Animal Paradise and the hogs are flying high to Shark Island. A hammerhead has gone walkies and now he's stuck on shore. PiPs to the rescue! But some baddie sharks have decided they're bored of seaweed burgers and are hungry for ham - and they've got the porky piggies in their sights . . .
GO, PiPs, GO!
|
| King of Tiny Things, The |
Jeanne Willis
£5.99, Puffin Books
When two little girls visit their grandparents, it seems like a brilliant idea to camp outside for the night. But then the dark comes and it doesn't seem such a good idea after all! Until a most unexpected visitor arrives - the King of Tiny Things. He is the shepherd of creepy crawlies, bugs and grubs and shows the girls that, in fact, the night is bright with magic.
From the creators of The Bog Baby, winner of the Booktrust Early Years Award 2008.
|
| Halo |
Zizou Corder
£6.99, Puffin Books
Washed ashore as a baby in ancient Greece, Halo is discovered by a family of centaurs. Although her true identity remains a mystery, she is loved as one of their own. But when Halo is dragged away by fishermen, her wild adventure begins . . .
Halo soon realizes that if she is to survive then she must live in disguise - as a boy. A violent war is threatening to erupt and Halo is at the mercy of the mighty Spartan warriors. And as she battles to hide her secret, Halo never forgets her quest to find out who she is - and where she really came from.
|
| Blueberry Girl |
Neil Gaiman & Charles Vess
£6.99, Bloomsbury
A book of dreams and wishes for a newborn child, this wonderful celebration of the birth of a child is the perfect christening or ‘birth day’ gift
Neil Gaiman wrote Blueberry Girl for a friend who was about to become the mother of a little girl. He has turned the deeply personal wish for a daughter into a book that celebrates the glory of growing up.
Illustrated throughout with gorgeous art by Charles Vess, whose work can also be seen in Susanna Clarke’s The Ladies of Grace Adieu.
|
| Sacred Scarab - Egyptian Chronicles 3 |
Gill Harvey
£5.99, Bloomsbury
The third in a new series of Egyptian Chronicles that targets the same market as the bestselling The Roman Mysteries series by Caroline Lawrence
The third in a new series of four books: the first and second titles were published in August and October 2009, the fourth to be published in April 2010.
Fantastically atmospheric evocations of Egyptian life are encased in an exciting adventure story. Each story features the boy and girl characters Hopi and Isis, and their struggles for existence and adventure in Egypt circa 1150 BC. In this story, The Sacred Scarab, Hopi and Isis, orphaned when crocodiles kill their parents, are preparing for an important festival, in which the king accompanies the gods to his great mortuary temple. But when Isis and Hopi uncover a plot by a villainous tax collector, they need to ensure that justice is done . . .
The author has spent much time in Egypt and the stories are meticulously researched.
The books include factual detail and notes about Egyptian lifestyle, the importance of the gods for the Egyptians, the tombs and much more. |
| Charlotte and the Wolves |
Anu Stohner & Henrike Wilson
£5.99, Bloomsbury
An un-woolly yarn with one very special little sheep at its heart, and a gentle message about bravery
Charlotte isn’t like other sheep. She is brave and adventurous and likes to explore where no sheep has explored before – unlike some sheep, who just prefer to brag about how mean and tough they are. Then one night, a terrifying howl echoes from the forest . . . the kind of howl that could only be made by a wolf. The boastful sheep run away and hide. But Charlotte is made of sterner stuff. Who will save the day . . . and who will end up looking sheepish? |
| Clover Twig and the Perilous Path |
Kaye Umansky
£5.99, Bloomsbury
A brand new very funny witch-filled book from the much-loved Kaye Umansky.
Clover Twig – clever, neat, responsible, is still in the employ of Mrs Eckles, chaotic, cantankerous, and a witch. One day, Granny Dismal, a witch from the neighbouring village, warns them that the Perilous Path has been seen in the woods. As its name indicates, it leads nowhere good, and also has a habit of sneaking up on you. And then little Herby, Clover’s baby brother, goes missing …
A very funny witch-filled romp, featuring Clover, Mrs Eckles and the return of Mrs Eckles’s wicked revenge-driven witch sister, Mesmeranza … |
| Calamity Jack - Graphic Novel |
Shannon Hale
£9.99, Bloomsbury
Bestselling, award-winning author Shannon Hale teams up with husband Dean Hale and Nathan Hale (no relation) to create a second stunning graphic novel. Action and thrills define this gangster-filled and hugely entertaining retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk
Jack thinks of himself as a criminal mastermind − with an unfortunate amount of bad luck. A schemer, a trickster . . . maybe even a thief? But, of course, he’s not out for himself − he’s trying to take the burden off his hardworking mum’s shoulders. She’d understand, right? He hopes she might even be proud.
Then, one day, Jack chooses a target a little more . . . ‘giant’ than the usual, and as one little bean turns into a great big building-destroying beanstalk, his troubles really begin. But with help from Rapunzel and other eccentric friends, Jack just might out-swindle the evil giants and put his beloved city back in the hands of the people who live there . . . whilst catapulting them and the reader into another fantastical adventure! |
| Auslander |
Paul Dowswell
£6.99, Bloomsbury
A chilling and thought-provoking thriller about a Polish orphan's subversion of Nazi ideals
When Peter’s parents are killed, he is sent to an orphanage in Warsaw. Then German soldiers take him away to be measured and assessed. They decide that Peter is racially valuable. He is Volksdeutscher: of German blood. With his blond hair, blue eyes, and acceptably proportioned head, he looks just like the boy on the Hitler-Jugend poster. Someone important will want to adopt Peter. They do.
Professor Kaltenbach is very pleased to welcome such a fine Aryan specimen to his household. People will be envious. But Peter is not quite the specimen they think. He is forming his own ideas about what he is seeing, what he is told. Peter doesn’t want to be a Nazi, and so he is going to take a very dangerous risk. The most dangerous risk he could possibly choose to take in Berlin in 1943. |
| Shine |
Kate Maryon
£6.99, HarperCollins Children's Books
debut fiction for girls aged 9+
Published 4th March 2010, £6.99 paperback
Twelve-year-old Tiff loves her mum, Carla, who is glitzy and fun and always coming home with shiny new amazing things. The trouble is, Tiff's mum doesn't buy these things, she takes them. The fact is, Tiff's mum is a thief…
When Carla gets caught, Tiff’s shiny life is ruined. She's packed off to a remote island to live with her mum’s family. A family her mum never talks about and that Tiff has never even met! How can she survive in this dull, dull place?
But the island of Sark isn't as awful as Tiff imagined it would be. The islanders are kind and honest and she's happy spending time with them. So three months later, when it's finally time for her mum to join her, Tiff can't help feeling more than a little bit worried…
Tiff’s experiences are pretty extraordinary, but she’s a person with real emotions that readers will instantly connect with and journey alongside.
Shine is a brilliant novel from a fantastic new writer for girls, Kate Maryon. Kate has been working for fifteen years counselling many young people through difficult times and helping them to address their challenging behaviour – through conversation, homeopathic remedies, dietary advice and parenting techniques to help the whole family. Her writing reflects her work; she brings tough issues into her books but in an accessible way, delivered through ultimately uplifting storylines and believable, likeable characters to reassure and empower her readers. Kate lives in Somerset and has two children. |
| Glitterwings Power Play |
Lee Weatherly
£5.99, Bloomsbury Children's Books
Publication Date: 5th April 2010
Price: 5.99
Glitterwings Academy launched in April 2008. The tales of Twink and her friends at fairy school tap into the older age range of the fairy market with their strong moral values and traditional adventures. There are currently twelve books in the series plus a Christmas special. This April Bloomsbury is delighted to be publishing the thirteenth book in the series.
Twink is delighted to be back at Glitterwins Academy for her fourth year and is thrilled that she can see the school Fledge field from the window of Bluebell Branch. Twink adores the high-speed fairy sport and is a talented player, but even so, she is amazed when she is elected as the new Games Fairy. However, she soon discovers that being Games Fairy and leading the Fledge team is a far from easy task . . .
This series is perfect for young readers ready to move on from first chapter books. Parents will be delighted by the quality of the writing. The sparkly covers and charming illustrations are sure to entrance and bedazzle fans of all things magical.
Titania Woods is the pen-name for Lee Weatherly. Lee is a respected author of teen fiction, including the novels Child X and Missing Abby, and is the winner of the Sheffield Teen Book Award. Lee was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, and now lives in Basingstoke.
Glitterwings Academy: Fairy in Danger will be published in July 2010
www.glitterwingsacademy.co.uk
|
| The Good Green Footprint |
Christina Goodings
£5.99, Lion Hudson Plc
Want to have fun and make your world ‘green’? This book is full of illustrated ideas on things to make using natural, leftover and recycled materials with lots of tips on being greener thrown in. Things to make include a hat and scarf, shopping bag, wastebin and other useful containers. There are also a couple of recipes and party ideas. Plenty to get your creative juices flowing and help the planet at the same time. |
| The Little Ships |
LOUISE BORDEN / MICHAEL FOREMAN
£6.99, Frances Lincoln
This lovely book has been reissued to mark the 70th anniversary of the Dunkirk evacuation. It’s 1940 and Britain is at war. Martin Gates, a Kentish fisherman, hears the news that half a million British soldiers are trapped across the channel at Dunkirk and boats are needed to ferry them home. Knowing his son could be one of them he sets off in his old fishing smack with his young daughter to see how they could help joining an odd assortment of boats. At Dunkirk they work hard ferrying soldiers from the shore to the larger ships amid smoke and bullets some of which hit their boat. Their dramatic and touching story is vividly brought to life in this atmospheric picture book with poetic style writing and animated illustrations. |
| The Knights of Swords and Spooks |
TERRY DEARY
£4.99, A&C Black
George Stanley is honoured to be sent as a squire to serve King Richard III himself until he discovers he has been chosen to act as a hostage to make sure his father doesn’t turn against the king. This puts George in grave danger, especially when he overhears the King revealing the contents of his dream where the ghosts of people he had harmed came back to haunt him. George’s father had given him away, so could there be anyone to protect him? Find out in this exciting and amusing tale based on real people. Large print and lots of pictures encourage new readers onto novel size books. |
| Sea Wolf |
David Miller
£5.99, OUP Oxford
Second book in the series. Having escaped Shark Island
and all its dangers in the first book, Hannah is dumbfounded
when Ned and Jik put them all in danger again hoping to search for a precious gem. Shipwrecked by a storm, Hannah and Jik are taken as slaves on board a ship run by an old foe — but oddly that is to turn out to be the least of their worries and the first of many terrifying situations they have to face. They must keep their wits about them and learn that sometimes you have to change your opinion about people as help comes from the most unexpected places. An action packed adventure with many nail biting moments. |
| On Thin Ice |
KAY WOODWARD
£5.99, Usborne
Having avoided exclusion from Skate School in the first book in the series, Frankie manages to put her place at risk by injuring herself. She is bitterly disappointed as this also ruins her chances of competing in the European Junior Championships. Her spirits rise when she’s chosen to skate with Paul in the Perfect Pairs competition until he makes
it abundantly clear he wants to skate on his own creating an unhappy atmosphere in training and putting her in an impossible situation. Should she please him and risk losing her place at the school again? More trials and hard decisions in the heady world of competitive ice skating in this engrossing read. Fair size print, medium length novel. |
| The Secret Scroll |
SARAH LUCAS
£4.99, Professional Marketing Limited
This book is a unique collaboration between the author and
pupils from Selborne Primary School in Hampshire. Loving the Romans, Tom is thrilled when his Grandad gives him an old Roman coin and even more excited when he hears the
legend of a Roman boy connected to the site of his school. When a plaque that is supposed to protect the school is broken there are fears that a disaster is imminent, but surely it is only a tale as fake as the scroll Tom discovers… or is it? Tom and friends are about to embark on an unbelievable adventure full of thrills and frights with plenty of surprises and plot twists. Medium length novel full of simple, but effective illustrations by the children themselves. |
| The Crowfield Curse |
PAT WALSH
£6.99, Chicken House
After surviving an horrific fire which killed his family, Will is
taken in by the monks of Crowfield Abbey. Things start to
change when he rescues a creature from a vicious trap. When it talks to him he realises it is one he didn’t know really existed and that not many humans can see. Will starts to sense he is being watched, but he can’t see what by. The arrival of two visitors add to the confusion
and Will learns of a terrible secret in the abbey’s past concerning the death of an angel. Dark forces are at work and, much as he tries to avoid it, Will seems fated to cross their path. This is an unusual, atmospheric story full
of suspense and drama - a real page turner with plenty of breathtaking moments. |
| The Terrible Plop |
URSULA DUBOSARSKY/ ANDREW JOYNER
£10.99, Egmont
Six little rabbits were scared away from a lake by a terrible plop. They warn other animals they meet on the way who join in — all except the big brown bear. He isn’t scared, wants to see the plop and bullies one of the rabbits
into taking him to it. With surprising results! This amusing story is told is rhyme and is great to read aloud. |
| Princesses Are NOT Perfect |
KATE LUM/SUE HELLARD
£5.99, Bloomsbury
We catch up with the three princesses from ‘Princesses Are Not Quitters’ as they prepare for the children’s Summer party. Although they each had their own speciality at which they excelled, they all felt in need of a change and decided to swap jobs. The results were less than perfect to say the least, was the party going to be ruined? Find out in this very funny, thought-provoking picture book with detailed illustrations that help the story along. |
| Meteorite Strike |
A.G. TAYLOR
£5.99, Usborne
Sarah, Robert and their dad are on a plane over Australia when a meteorite strikes causing it to crash. They escape unhurt, unlike most of the other passengers who are
affected by some strange alien virus which puts them in a coma like state. Sarah and Robert haven’t escaped entirely as they soon start developing extraordinary abilities. As
they try to get away from the choking, meteorite created
atmosphere they are captured by an organisation who say
they want to use them to find a cure for the virus. They have other children with similar powers and Sarah starts to realise they are being deceived and the military members of
the organisation have ulterior motives for developing the children’s powers. Will the children be able to control their powers and work together to escape the clutches of this dominant force led by a man who is becoming less stable as
time goes on? Find out in this dramatic, fast moving story that will have you on the edge of your seat. Full length novel for competent older readers, the first of a new series. |
| Gifted : Here Today, Gone Tomorrow |
MARILYN KAYE
£9.99, Macmillan
Emily is less than happy to be able to see into the future. She has trouble interpreting what she sees which causes problems. The other students in the special ‘gifted’ class seem to have more useful ‘gifts’ and some of them tease her about hers especially when she predicts one student will go missing from the class. However, they start to change their minds when one does go missing as predicted and others follow. Emily doesn’t hesitate when she is called to help, but what is really going on? How does a sinister woman know about the gifted ones and what is she really after? Compelling mix of unusual alliances, exciting adventure and the paranormal. This is the third book in the ‘Gifted’ series each concentrating on a different student. You don’t have to have read the rest to enjoy this one, but I bet you will want to catch up on the others when you have. Full length novel for older readers. |
| Running Wild |
MICHAEL MORPURGO
£12.99, Harper Collins
Finding it hard to come to terms with the death of his soldier father, Will and his mother hope a Christmas holiday in Indonesia will help them make a new start. It seems to be working until Boxing Day. Oona, the elephant Will is riding along the beach starts to behave strangely avoiding the sea and rushing into the jungle with Will desperately clinging on. He soon realises her actions have saved them both from a tsunami, but she keeps going and they are soon lost. With Oona’s help he manages to survive and experiences many amazing things with help and danger
coming from unexpected quarters. This is a powerful, thought provoking story that will keep you gripped throughout. It takes a look at our relationship with other animals and the devastation caused by man and nature. Fair sized print and some pictures encourage readers
onto a longer novel. |
| Jim |
HILAIRE BELOC & MINI GREY
£12.99, Jonathan Cape Hb
The classic cautionary tale of the boy who ran away from his nurse to meet a grizzly end is brought up to date with these vivid illustrations, flaps and pop-ups. These together with its rhyme will help newly developing readers, but it is
fun for more capable readers as well. I have always loved this tale, but this fantastic version brings it more to life than any other I’ve seen. |
| The Oxford Book of Christmas Stories |
Dennis Pepper
£9.99, OUP Oxford
A wonderful collection of 30 short stories for older readers by well known authors such as Jacqueline Wilson, Catherine Storr, Robert Leeson, Sue Townsend and Charles Dickens. A varied mix of old and new, serious, funny, touching and scary tales some full of the spirit of Christmas, others more ghostly spirits — all very entertaining and beautifully presented. Hours of enjoyment. |
| Ask Me Anything |
DK
£12.99, DK
This big book is jam packed with illustrated information on an amazingly wide variety of subjects. It’s divided into sections such as space, animals, human body, society and culture and history to make it easier to use. I’m not sure the claim to have ‘every fact you ever wanted to know’ is possible, but this certainly has a good try. Do you know 900 million people a year take a holiday and more people drown in the desert than die of thirst? Well, you do now, but there’s plenty more to learn in this fascinating book. |
| Dear Hound |
JILL MURPHY
£9.99, Puffin
Alfie the deerhound puppy loves his new home and Charlie his master. All is well until Charlie and family go away for the weekend leaving Alfie at a petsitters. Poor Alfie doesn't realise it is only for a while and, frightened by an electric fence, runs away. He has no idea how to find Charlie or look
after himself. Luckily two foxes take pity on him and care for him. He never gives up looking for Charlie, who is also looking for him, but they keep missing each other. Eventually he is taken by some other humans who want to use him for their own ends. Will Alfie and Charlie ever be reunited? This is a charming, heart-warming story of friendship in both animals and humans. Large print and some pictures encourage newly developing readers onto slightly longer than first novels. |
| A Christmas Wish |
SUE BENTLEY
£4.99, Puffin
Starshine the little reindeer wants to join his dad and the others on their journey to deliver presents to children, but he’s told he is too young. He tries to go after them but gets lost and bumps into Marie, a lonely girl in need of a friend. Although she speaks perfect English some of her classmates tease her because she’s from Poland and she doesn’t think anyone likes her. While he is waiting for the herd to return so he can join them, Starshine decides to use
his magic to help make Marie’s life happier with some very funny results in this touching story, one of the Magic Reindeer series. Fair size print and some pictures to encourage newly developing readers. |
| Bad Kids |
TONY ROBINSON
£12.99, Macmillan
Don’t let anyone tell you children today are the worst behaved ever. This book has plenty of proof that there have been some very badly behaved children throughout history. This is a really fun look at how children have been treated and expected to act for thousand of years with a look at specific ‘Bad Kids’ whose antics would make anything you do look positively saintly! It’s factual (a bit gruesome in parts) but presented in a clear, funny way full of illustrations. A real eye opener! |
| The Jewels of Valonia |
Katie Patterson
£7.99, HandE
Gareth and Rachel are pleased to be staying with their Aunt
Bronwyn at last. It’s surprising they’ve never seen her home
before and that their father is reluctant to let them go. They are even more surprised when they get to Valonia – it’s a strange little village somewhat out of time with the modern world whose inhabitants seem surprised by their appearance, especially by the fact they are twins. They are sure there are secrets being kept from them and try to discover what they could be. A dangerous escapade show them warnings to stay together should not be ignored. Their meeting with a strange man results in a journey
through time when their destinies are shockingly revealed. First in a new series ‘The Chronicles of Valonia’ full of mystery and intrigue. |
| Scat |
CARL HIAASEN
£9.99, Orion
Nick and Marta aren’t the only ones in their class to be scared of Mrs Starch, but they are concerned when she goes missing after a fire threatens a school trip. They are told she got out OK and has gone away on family business — but she doesn’t have any family. The plot thickens when Smoke, a pupil who had threatened her after she humiliated him and who has a history of arson, also disappears. When Mrs Starch’s car is seen being driven by a strange man and Smoke arrives back in school a changed person, Nick, already worried about his father who is serving in Iraq, finds something else to bother him. The
more he and Marta discover, the more involved they become. With an endangered panther kitten and a corrupt company this is full of intrigue and plotlines cleverly entwined to give plenty of food for thought and make this an exciting, unputdownable read. Fair size print, full length novel. |
| Princess Smartypants Breaks the Rules! |
BABETTE COLE
£5.99, Puffin
Princess Smartypant’s admission to a finishing school
makes quite an impression. Instead of changing her into a
dainty, perfect princess, her influence makes all the other
pupils want to rebel like her - with hilarious results.
Another great picture book in this series. With just one
sentence on each page it is perfect for beginner readers,
but fun for all ages and abilities. |
| Cupid Company Heart to Heart |
Amber Aitken
£5.99, Harper Collins Children's Books
Funny, quirky and uplifting, The Cupid Company trilogy tells
the story of twelve-year-old girls, Coral and Nicks, who believe that everyone can find their One True Love, with a bit of help from them. In the first book, It Takes Two, (published 2009) the best friends – along with their dog, Romeo – set up their own seaside matchmaking agency, The Cupid Company, in a beach hut they inherited from Coral’s aunt, and got cracking helping their friends and family find romance! In this second story, Heart to Heart, published in time for Valentine’s Day, The Cupid Company is in full swing but faces its biggest challenge yet when a group of glamorous, snobby teenagers move in to the beach hut next door. These girls think that no guys are good enough for them - but Coral and Nicks have other ideas! Funny, quirky and uplifting, this warm comedy of errors is perfect reading for girls aged 9+. |
| Too Purply |
Jean Reidy
£5.99, Bloomsbury
What can a girl wear to be super-comfortable? Join in with the sartorial adventures of one snazzy dresser as she discovers that so many clothes are too purply, too prickly, too fancy or too plain! But, of course, there is something that she loves to wear . . . and it is just perfect.
This charmingly cheeky book will appeal to every parent with experience of their child being fussy about their clothes - and for all those little girls with a strong dress sense! |
| Tollins: Explosive Tales for Children |
Conn Iggulden
£14.99, Harper Collins
An explosive and magical new fictional world from the creator of the phenomenal bestseller The Dangerous Book for Boys.
"Tollins are not fairies. Though they both have wings, fairies are delicate creatures and much smaller. Tollins are also a lot less fragile than fairies. In fact, the word 'fragile' can't really be used about them at all. They are about as fragile as a housebrick!"
In these three tales, Conn Iggulden introduces the explosive, magical and adventurous world of the Tollins, all beautifully illustrated in full colour by Lizzy Duncan. Complete with thrilling stories of danger and derring-do, glorious drawings, maps and diagrams, this is more than a fantastic fiction debut for children -- it's also the definitive guide to these remarkable little flying creatures. Just don't ever call them fairies! |
| Running Wild |
Michael Morpurgo
£12.99, Harper Collins
An epic and heart-rending jungle adventure from the bestselling author of Kaspar and Born to Run. For Will and his mother, going to Indonesia isn't just a holiday. It's an escape, a new start, a chance to put things behind them - things like the death of Will's father. And to begin with, it seems to be just what they both needed. But then Oona, the elephant Will is riding on the beach, begins acting strangely, shying away from the sea. And that's when the tsunami comes crashing in, and Oona begins to run. Except that when the tsunami is gone, Oona just keeps on running. With nothing on his back but a shirt and nothing to sustain him but a bottle of water, Will must learn to survive deep in the jungle. Luckily, though, he's not completely alone! He's got Oona.
Suitable for readers aged nine years and over. |
| Magical World of Milligan, The |
Spike Milligan
£14.99, Virgin Books
The Magical World of Milligan is a sparkly new children's compendium that gathers together a grand selection of Milligan favourites, including such delightful poems and stories as 'On the Ning Nang Nong', 'The Terrible Monster Jelly' and lots of Twits. Full colour and complete with Milligan's drawings and sketches, The Magical World also includes poems from Silly Verse for Kids to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of its publication in 1959. This wonderful new book will appeal to the legion of Milligan fans and open the door to new ones, young and old alike. |
| Third Pig Detective Agency, The |
Bob Burke
£6.99, Harper Collins
A delightfully silly detective story in the spirit of Jasper Fforde. Harry Pigg, the only surviving brother from the Big Bad Wolf attacks, has set up business as a private detective in Grimmtown, only things aren't going too well. Down on his luck, with bills to pay and no clients in sight the outlook is poor. But then in walks local businessman Aladdin who needs someone to help him track down an old lamp. What follows is a case of nursery rhyme-noir. Funny, thrilling and always entertaining, Harry Pigg is an old breed of hero for a new generation. It's as if Humphrey Bogart or James Cagney had walked into the middle of a bedtime story.
A comedy caper for all ages and the first in a major new series from Limerick writer, Bob Burke. |
| Swan Lake Ballet Theatre |
Jean Mahoney
£14.99, Walker Books
Bring Tchaikovsky's best-loved ballet to life in your very own ballet theatre, complete with dancers, music and story booklet.
From the creators of The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty ballet boxes comes the most famous of Tchaikovsky's ballets, Swan Lake. Open up the box to reveal a lavish theatre, complete with twirling dancers and scenery to change. Put on the CD, follow the story booklet and make your dancers pirouette along with the music! With a handy drawer in which to keep the scenery and dancing figures, this is the perfect gift for budding ballerinas.
Suitable for six years and over. |
| Snow White - A Three dimensional Fairytale Theatre |
Jane Ray
£14.99, Walker Books
The story of Snow White told through six beautifully illustrated 3D peep-through tableaux.
A beautiful girl with skin as white as snow, lips as red as blood and hair as dark as the winter branches...and the wicked queen whose jealousy knows no bounds. The classic story of Snow White is here retold and illustrated in six exquisite three-dimensional scenes by Jane Ray, returning to the original Grimm fairy tale for elements of the story and giving her world a real sense of theatrical drama and romance. Six scenes tell the story of Snow White and each scene is three layers deep so you can peer through the woods to the house of the seven dwarfs for instance. Swathes of red curtain and a wooden stage complete the theatrical effect.
|
| Flanimals Pop-Up |
Ricky Gervais
£11.99, Walker Books
The phenomenal Flanimals come to life in this 3D pop-up extravaganza.
The world of Flanimals, madcap creation of comedian and actor Ricky Gervais, is perfectly realized in this lavish pop-up book. From Flanimal evolution and behaviour to Flanimals of the air and of the deep, all aspects of Flanimal life are open to exploration through huge pop-ups and intricate flaps. Perfect for all ages, Flanimals Pop-Up is the ideal introduction to the Flanimal kingdom and the perfect gift for Flanimal lovers everywhere.
|
| The Kites are Flying! |
Michael Morpurgo
£7.99, Walker Books
A television reporter’s extraordinary experience in the West Bank reveals how children’s hopes and dreams for peace and unity can fly higher than any wall built to divide communities and religions.
Travelling to the West Bank to witness how life is for Palestinians and Jews living in the shadow of a dividing wall, journalist Max strikes up a friendship with an enigmatic Palestinian boy, Said. Together the two sit under an ancient olive tree while Said makes another of his kites. As Max is welcomed as a guest, he learns of the terrible events in the family’s past and begins to understand why Said no longer speaks. Told from both Max’s and Said’s points of view, Morpurgo has created a beautiful tale of tragedy and hope with an ending that rings with joy.
Suitable for readers aged seven years and over. |
| Witch in a Fix |
Marian Broderick
€6.99, O'Brien Press
Anna’s science teacher really gets on her nerves – but is that a good enough reason to turn her into a giant rat?
With a big, angry rat on the loose, Anna soon realises she’s made a bad mistake. How will she turn it back into her teacher? And can she do it quickly, before anyone finds out that she’s an apprentice witch?
Anna can’t admit what she’s done, so no one can help her with her big, furry problem – or can they?
Sometimes even witches need a little help from their friends!
More magical adventures with Anna Kelly, Witch Apprentice:
The Witch in the Woods
The Witch Apprentice
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| The Romanian Builder |
Peter Prendergast
€7.99, O'Brien Press
Joe had so many questions for the new builder: Which tool was the most important? What if you were afraid of heights? How do you put scaffolding together?
He is really disappointed when he finds out that Radu doesn’t speak any English. Now he will never find out about building – or will he?
Bridges is an exciting new series of multi-cultural and inter-cultural books for children aged 6+.
With entertaining storylines and unique and original illustrations from award-winning illustrators Cartoon Saloon, these full-colour hardback books can help children develop their understanding of people from other cultures in a fun and exciting way.
The unique illustrative approach and engaging stories in the Bridges series make these books ideal for different reading abilities and age levels.
Bridges helps to 'bridge the gap' between children from different cultures, helping them to broaden their knowledge and deepen their understanding of other cultures and the many different experiences of living in Ireland today.
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| The Dreaming Tree |
Eithne Massey
€7.99, O'Brien Press
Back home in Brazil, Roberto loved playing football. Now he lives in Ireland, and he’d really like to have a game with the boys in the park, but he’s too shy.
When his granny reminds him of the Brazilian story of the dreaming tree, he doesn’t see how a story can help him …
But maybe it can!
Bridges is an exciting new series of multi-cultural and inter-cultural books for children aged 6+.
With entertaining storylines and unique and original illustrations from award-winning illustrators Cartoon Saloon, these full-colour hardback books can help children develop their understanding of people from other cultures in a fun and exciting way.
The unique illustrative approach and engaging stories in the Bridges series make these books ideal for different reading abilities and age levels.
Bridges helps to 'bridge the gap' between children from different cultures, helping them to broaden their knowledge and deepen their understanding of other cultures and the many different experiences of living in Ireland today.
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| Olanna's Big Day |
Natasha Mac a'Bháird
€7.99, O'Brien Press
There's great excitement when the school band is chosen to march in the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade.
Olanna practises really hard on her tin whistle. At last the big day arrives and they line up with the stilt-walkers, the bagpipers, the dancing leprechauns.
Then disaster strikes. But Olanna – and her granny back in Nigeria – saves the day!
Bridges is an exciting new series of multi-cultural and inter-cultural books for children aged 6+.
With entertaining storylines and unique and original illustrations from award-winning illustrators Cartoon Saloon, these full-colour hardback books can help children develop their understanding of people from other cultures in a fun and exciting way.
The unique illustrative approach and engaging stories in the Bridges series make these books ideal for different reading abilities and age levels.
Bridges helps to 'bridge the gap' between children from different cultures, helping them to broaden their knowledge and deepen their understanding of other cultures and the many different experiences of living in Ireland today.
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| I Won't Go To China |
Enda Wyley
€7.99, O'Brien Press
Poor Chang-ming!
He has been picked for the school team but his family will be in China then, visiting his grandma.
It’s not fair. ‘I won’t go to China,’ he decides.
But what about Grandma? And isn’t a visit to China the most exciting thing ever?
Especially when it’s Chinese new year?
Chang-ming doesn’t think so … But China is full of surprises.
Bridges is an exciting new series of multi-cultural and inter-cultural books for children aged 6+.
With entertaining storylines and unique and original illustrations from award-winning illustrators Cartoon Saloon, these full-colour hardback books can help children develop their understanding of people from other cultures in a fun and exciting way.
The unique illustrative approach and engaging stories in the Bridges series make these books ideal for different reading abilities and age levels.
Bridges helps to 'bridge the gap' between children from different cultures, helping them to broaden their knowledge and deepen their understanding of other cultures and the many different experiences of living in Ireland today.
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| Colm & the Lazarus Key |
Kieran Mark Crowley
€8.99, Mercier Press
An exciting mystery story perfect for anyone who loved Artemis Fowl.
Colm thinks that spending a fortnight with his cousin – The Brute – is the worst thing that can happen to him this summer. He’s about to find out he’s wrong. While driving The Brute home, Colm and his parents stop for the night at a quiet, old hotel. The Brute falls in love for the first time, with the mysterious American granddaughter of their hotel owner and forces Colm to help him win her over.
When strange things begin to happen, Colm finds himself in the middle of a baffling and exciting adventure. Colm and The Brute must overcome their dislike of each other and work together if they’re going to find Colm’s parents and solve the murky mystery of the Lazarus Key. |
| Princesses Are Not Perfect |
Kate Lum
£5.99, Bloomsbury Children’s Books
Not having to be perfect at everything is an important lesson for young readers to learn. Here the tale is told in royal, girly fashion with plenty of frills and frocks. From the team who created Princesses Are Not Quitters, comes a brand-new princess adventure. This time the princesses discover that none of them is perfect and that’s OK.
Allie, Mellie and Libby are three very busy princesses. Each has her own particular talent; Allie bakes wonderful cakes, Libby can build anything at all and Mellie is an expert gardener. But one day they realise they’re fed up with doing the same thing day after day. So they decide to try their hand at something new - with disastrous consequences. Luckily a sleepless night saves the day for everyone. Younger readers, especially little girls, are going to love this story which has a recommended price of £5.99 at good bookshops on the High Street and online, and is published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books.
Kate Lum is also the author of What!, winner of the Red House Children’s Book Award for Younger Children and Sue Hellard is the illustrator of many much-loved children’s books, including Where’s My Cuddle? and the Madame Pamplemousse series. |
| My Mum has X-Ray Vision |
Angela McAllister
£5.99, Scholastic Children’s Books
Everyone knows that Mums are superheroes but Milo’s Mum has got X-Ray Vision! Milo's Mum always knows what he's up to. She knows when he's using her saucepans to brew up magic spells, and she knows when he's bouncing on his bed. She even knows when he's wrestling with giant sea monsters in the bath. But how does she do it? There can only be one answer: she must have X-Ray vision! So one day Milo decides to put his theory to the test...
My Mum has X-Ray Vision brings together the talents of Angela McAllister, an author with over thirty children’s books to her name, and up-and-coming new illustrator, Alex T. Smith, in this lovely picture book which is bound to put a few ideas into young children’s heads and confirm what mothers all around the world already know – they are superhuman! Combining a charming and witty tale of a Mum with secret powers with beautifully detailed illustrations that children will pore over again and again this superb picture book is guaranteed to capture the imaginations of both children and parents alike.
My Mum has X-Ray Vision is published by Scholastic Children’s Books in hardback (£10.99) and paperback (5.99) and is available at good bookshops on the High Street and online.
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| Triskellion 2: The Burning |
Will Peterson
£6.99, Walker Books
The second title in the compelling paranormal mystery trilogy.
After their harrowing escape from the sinister village of Triskellion, twins Rachel and Adam had hoped their troubles were over. Instead, betrayed by the one person they believed they could trust, they fall into the hands of the mysterious Project Hope – an organization claiming to conduct archaeological research. When Rachel makes a shocking discovery in a secret autopsy suite, she realizes they need to get out – and fast! Pursued across Europe, the twins will need every ounce of courage to stay alive as the adventure reaches its explosive conclusion on the North African coast.
Suitable for ages 11 years and over. |
| Scorpia |
Anthony Horowitz
£6.99, Walker Books
Still reeling from the terrible discovery he has made about his father, teenage MI6 superspy, Alex Rider, is determined to find out more. Travelling to Italy, he manages to infiltrate the glamorous world of Claudia Rothman, beautiful society hostess and member of the international criminal organization, Scorpia. She reveals that AlexÕs father was murdered by MI6, in an operation masterminded by Head of Special Operations, Mrs Jones. Shocked and angry, Alex faces a choice: to continue to work with the British security services, or to become an agent for Scorpia Ð and get revenge. |
| Skeleton Key |
Anthony Horowitz
£6.99, Walker Books
Teenage superspy Alex Rider is enlisted by the national security services again – this time for a routine reconnaissance mission at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships. But before long, Alex finds himself caught up in a terrifying chain of events that leads from the Chinese Triad gangs in London to an undercover assignment in Cuba. Alex begins to make chilling links between suspicious deaths, an illegal nuclear weapons deal and the plans of his host, Russian General Sarov, for the future of the world… Suitable for ages nine years and over.
Visit the Alex Rider website at www.alexrider.com |
| Peter Rabbit - A Winter's Tale |
Beatrix Potter
£17.99, Penguin
One snowy afternoon Peter Rabbit leaves home to collect firewood for his mother. Little does he know that this is the start of an exciting adventure in the heart of the wintery forest…
A Winter’s Tale is an enchanting story that is perfect for Christmas. Based on Beatrix Potter's original characters and illustrations, the story is inspired by the Tale of Mr. Tod, who is a most troublesome and ‘disagreeable’ fox.
The text and festive illustrations, which evoke Beatrix Potter’s original paintings for Christmas cards, tell the story of the escape Mrs Tittlemouse’s children from the clutches of Mr. Tod and Tommy Brock with the help of Peter Rabbit and his cousin Benjamin.
Throughout the book, there are ten interactive envelopes containing twinkling ‘snowflake’ decorations to dress a Christmas tree, which is revealed on the final page of the book. This delicate shimmering pop-up tree can be displayed in a child’s room during the festive period.
www.peterrabbit.com |
| Perry the Playful Polar Bear |
Olive O'Brien
€8.99, Silver Angel Publishing
Perry the Playful Polar Bear is the story of Perry, a lonely polar bear cub. All Perry wants is someone to play with. One day, he meets a baby seal called Sally, who is lost. The two set off on an adventure to find Sally’s family and along the way, Perry discovers the true value of friendship and family.
The book has 32-pages with full colour illustrations and is beautifully illustrated by Nina Finn-Kelcey.
You can also order online at www.oliveobrien.com
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| Norman Enormous |
Dave Hackett
£5.99, Puffin
Norman Enormous lives by himself, all squished and squashed in his normal-sized home. The one thing he hopes for at the end of each day is to find a real-true-good-fun-very-best-friend. But will he?
A first picture book from the outstandingly funny and original Dave Hackett. Note from the editor: Dave is an original. This one is a meld of Edward Lear, Dr Seuss and probably a thousand other influences - but it's somehow 100% Dave Hackett.
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| Danger Society: The Young Bond Dossier |
Charlie Higson
£12.99, Puffin
Featuring a brand-new story by Charlie Higson, the Young Bond Dossier is the complete and definitive guide to the world and adventures of Young Bond.
Packed with information - from in-depth character profiles to the cars, the weapons and the exotic locations, plus facts, statistics, photographs, maps, and illustrations by Kev Walker - this book is both a must-have for Young Bond fans and a perfect introduction to the megaselling series.
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| Michael Rosen's A-Z: The Best Children's Poetry from Agard to Zephaniah |
Michael Rosen
£6.99, Puffin
From Agard to Zephaniah, the very best of children's poetry from the very best of children's poets appears in this wonderful and exciting anthology edited by Michael Rosen, the Children's Laureate. Coinciding with his laureateship and a very welcome public promotion of the need for children's poetry in our education system, this future classic for Puffin will delight readers young and old, and make the perfect gift. |
| Dear Hound |
Jill Murphy
£9.99, Puffin
Alfie the deerhound is a large grey puppy. He loves his boy Charlie, and cheese and he's very good at digging holes. But poor Alfie has got lost and he's scared - of thunderstorms and being hungry and never seeing Charlie again . . .
Meanwhile, Charlie doesn't know what to do - but one thing is for sure: he'll never stop looking for his dear hound. Can Alfie ever find his way back to Charlie - and his great big squashy beanbag in the kitchen?
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| Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw |
Jeff Kinney
£5.99, Puffin
Greg's dad, Frank, is on a mission - a mission to make this wimpy kid, well, less wimpy. All manner of 'manly' physical activities are planned, but Greg just about manages to find a way out of them. That is until military academy is is mentioned and Greg realizes that he's going to have to come up with something very special to get out of this one . . Published August 2009. |
| Death Defying Pepper Roux, The |
Geraldine McCaughrean
£12.99, Oxford Children's Books
Pepper Roux has a charmed life, not only because he confounded his mad aunt's prediction that he was going to die at 14 by remaining alive, but also because he can step into any role he likes and have an adventure. Pepper becomes a sea captain and a sausage-seller, amongst other things, creating chaos wherever he goes.
The eagerly-awaited new novel from acclaimed author, Geraldine McCaughrean. |
| Dinosaur Cove: Journey to the Ice Age |
Rex Stone
£6.99, Oxford Children's Books
An incredible double-length ice age adventure...
It's Christmas Eve in Dinosaur Cove and Jamie and Tom are off to their secret dino world. But the Jurassic jungle has disappeared and been replaced with snow! A new ice age world awaits them - blizzards, avalanches, a woolly mammoth in need of their help . . . and the boys' most amazing discovery EVER! |
| Dog Biscuit |
Helen Cooper
£5.99, Picture Corgi
Bridget is very hungry. But because Mum is so busy looking after Bridget’s little brother, she hasn’t even noticed! So Bridget steals a biscuit from the shed. The only problem with these biscuits is that they are not meant for human beings, they’re meant for dogs!
But the biscuit tasted good . . . and before long Bridget is convinced she is turning into a dog.
WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU WERE A DOG FOR A DAY? |
| Morris the Mankiest Monster |
Giles Andreae
£10.99, David Fickling Books
It’s years since he last changed his t-shirt
It’s crusty and crawling with ants
His shoes are all slurpy and squelchy inside
And potatoes grow out of his pants
Morris is sweet, charming... and completely disgusting!
Kids will absolutely LOVE him. |
| The Little Red Train: Great Big Train |
Benedict Blathwayt
£5.99, Red Fox
A triumphant tale chock full of delightful illustrations. The Good Book Guide
When a lorry driver scoffs at the Little Red Train for looking old and useless, Duffy is quite upset. But the Little Red Train soon proves its worth when terrible traffic, breakdowns and faulty lights stop the lorries being able to deliver. And the Little Red Train doesn't look quite so useless, or little, after all!
Ben Blathwayt's Little Red Train books, with minimal text and big, busy pages full of intricate detail, have enormous appeal for young children. |
| Traction Man Meets Turbodog |
Mini Grey
£5.99, Red Fox
Traction Man is back! And so is Scrubbing Brush, his brave and rather bedraggled pet. But one night Scrubbing Brush myseriously vanishes and in his place is the utterly hygenic Turbodog, in indestructible Purple Plastic with Flashing Eyes, Electronic Bark and three AA batteries. But it's not the same without Scrubbing Brush. Where can he be? Traction Man sets out on his greatest rescue mission yet. Can he save Scrubbing Brush from? And is there room in his life for two pets?
Picture books for five to seven year olds. |
| Merlin: Sword and Sorcery |
Various
£4.99, Bantam Children
When Merlin and Morgana join forces to save a child the king has commanded to death, they soon discover that going against King Uther could prove fatal.
Meanwhile, a mysterious black knight arrives to challenge the Knights of Camelot to mortal combat. Old secrets, long hidden, are stirring and the king is afraid for his only son. The black knight seems invincible and Merlin senses that only magic can stop him…
With a graphic novel element to really bring the text to life, each book covers two TV episodes. |
| Against the Tide |
Theresa Tomlinson
£7.99, Corgi
Theresa Tomlinson has established herself as a talented writer of historical fiction, particularly when pinpointing her home territory on the NE coast of England. Here in one volume are three of her most gripping novels in which she describes the courage and humour with which the fishing families face up to the hard conditions of their lives.
THE FLITHER PICKERS of Sandwick Bay spend their days gathering shellfish on the shore - limpets and mussels - and baiting the lines for the fishermen . The story centres on young Liza Welford whose mother is haunted by an accident in the past.
In THE HERRING GIRLS, when tragedy strikes the Lythe family, 13-year-old Dory joins the tough world of the Scotch herring girls in Whitby in order to earn money and save her brothers and sisters from the workhouse.
Family life is destroyed for Ann and Polly Lancroft in BENEATH BURNING MOUNTAIN when the violent and merciless press-gangs invade the cliffs where men and women create alum crystals for a livelihood - and their home is wiped out by a sudden landslide.
Skilfully blending fiction with reality, Theresa Tomlinson has written three moving and absorbing stories of close-knit communities of fisher-folk a hundred years ago whose whole existence is governed by the sea. |
| A Necklace Of Raindrops |
Joan Aiken
£12.99, Jonathan Cape
'This is how it all began...' From 'A Necklace of Raindrops' to 'The Patchwork Quilt', here are eight classic stories to treasure and enjoy. Beginning and ending with a birthday, this spell-binding collection conjures up a world filled with magic, where wishes can come true. A necklace of raindrops that keeps its owner dry in the heaviest rainstorm; a tiger that runs faster than the wind; a huge floating apple pie with a piece of sky in it; a baker's cat who swells to the size of a whale when his mistress feeds him yeast; a house that stands on one leg - these are just some of the objects and characters that figure in these delightful stories.
Gift picture book for nine to 11 year olds. |
| Wisdom of Dead Men, The |
Oisin McGann
£6.99, Random House
If you're head of the Wildenstern clan, you can expect someone'll try to kill you at some point or another. And usually when someone does, it's a member of your own family.
But, right now Berto Wildenstern, and his brother Nate, have more pressing matters on their minds . . . local women seem to be spontaneously combusting and no one's quite sure why!
Wild mechanical creatures, explosions, deceptions, twists and turns with a host of fantastic otherworldly characters - imagine The Godfather meets Philip Reeve and you have Wisdom of Dead Men. |
| GLITTERWINGS ACADEMY 13: Power Play |
Titania Woods
£5.99, Bloomsbury
The thirteenth fabulous book in this magical and addictive Glitterwings Academy (the most glimmery fairy school ever!) series will be released in April 2010.
Twink is delighted to be back at Glitterwings Academy for her fourth year and is thrilled that she can see the school Fledge field from the window of Bluebell Branch. Twink adores the high-speed fairy sport and is a talented player, but even so, she is amazed when she is elected as the new Games Fairy. However, she soon discovers that being Games Fairy and leading the Fledge team is a far from easy task . . .
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| GLITTERWINGS ACADEMY 12: Magical Mayhem |
Titania Woods
£5.99, Bloomsbury
The twelfth fabulous book in this magical and addictive Glitterwings Academy (the most glimmery fairy school ever!) series.
The winter term starts as normal, but then the Glitterwings tree starts to lose its magical powers. What can the fairies do?
Glitterwings Academy is a lovingly created series by acclaimed author Lee Weatherly, writing as Titania Woods. Readers of the series can be assured of accomplished narrative, as well as stylish and exciting illustration.
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| GLITTERWINGS ACADEMY 11: Friendship Dance |
Titania Woods
£5.99, Bloomsbury
The eleventh fabulous book in this magical and addictive Glitterwings Academy (the most glimmery fairy school ever!) series.
Twink has been chosen to dance the important Friendship Dance at Queen Mab's Palace! Will Twink be able to learn the dance steps in time?
Glitterwings Academy is a lovingly created series by acclaimed author Lee Weatherly, writing as Titania Woods. Readers of the series can be assured of accomplished narrative, as well as stylish and exciting illustration.
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| Desert Rose |
Alison Jackson
£5.99, Bloomsbury
A hilarious cumulative tale with a Texan twist...
Desert Rose tells the story of pig farmer Rose, who finds herself in a bit of a quandary when she can’t get her sure-to-be-prize-winning hog over the creek in time to win first prize at the state fair.
She tries to enlist the help of all sorts of varmints, including a coyote, a rattlesnake and a cowboy, but to no avail.
It’s only after Rose very nicely asks an armadillo that a chain of events is set in motion that’s sure to leave everyone happy!
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| Madame Pamplemousse and Her Incredible Edibles |
Rupert Kingfisher
£4.99, Bloomsbury
Madame Pamplemousse is the story of Madeleine, forced to work in her unpleasant uncle’s horrible restaurant, The Squealing Pig. By chance she comes across the most marvellous shop, run by Madame Pamplemousse, which is quiet, discreet, yet full of delicious and otherworldly ‘edibles’ – Pterodactyl Bacon, Scorpion Tails in Smoked Garlic Oil, and Great Squid Tentacle in Jasmine-Scented Jelly. A quiet comradeship develops between Madeleine, Madame Pamplemousse, and Madame’s cat, Camembert. And together they create some wonderful culinary magic. Exquisite, beautifully formed prose that has echoes of Angela Carter belies a narrative that is full of pace.
An exquisite fairy tale with shades of Angela Carter that will intrigue both adults and children alike |
| When the World is Ready for Bed |
Gillian Shields
£9.99, Bloomsbury
An irresistible bedtime read for any family happy to end the day with a good story
A padded jacket, lots of sweet rabbits, cuddles and a bright shining star – a perfect gift book for any young reader.
A family of rabbits go through their end-of-day routine, from having their tea to brushing their teeth, sharing a story and being tucked up in bed, until they peek out of the window and see something that’s a change from their usual routine in this classic picture book.
With delectable art and warm, lyrical text, this is a thoroughly modern picture book with strong echoes of books such as The Velveteen Rabbit and the works of Beatrix Potter.
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| Captain Wag and the Polar Bears |
Michael Terry
£6.99, Bloomsbury
The third book in the very popular Captain Wag series, including a brilliant fold-out scene with reusable stickers.
Captain Wag and his shipmates are surprised to see a bottle floating in the water. On plucking it from the sea, they find it has a message inside from their sworn enemy, Pirate Ginger Tom. He is being attacked by polar bears and in dire need of help! Even though they are the worst of enemies, Captain Wag and his shipmates, fighting through blizzards and icebergs, go to his aid, with some unexpected results ...
A boisterous piratical tale and the third book in the Captain Wag series.
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| The Selfish Crocodile Book of Nursery Rhymes |
Faustin Charles
£6.99, Bloomsbury
Faustin Charles has specially created for this collection over 40 new rhymes inspired by traditional nursery rhymes and all featuring animal characters. The rhymes are illustrated throughout by Michael Terry, illustrator of the bestselling The Selfish Crocodile, and whose animal portrayals have become legendary. Combined with a fantastic audio CD that has Faustin Charles narrating the poems with lots of amazing animal sounds and noises, this will make a much-loved and much-listened to collection for younger readers.
Over 40 new rhymes inspired by traditional nursery rhymes and by the Selfish Crocodile and his animal friends. Includes a fantastic audio CD narrated by the author. |
| If I Were You |
Richard Hamilton & Babette Cole
£5.99, Bloomsbury
A witty and wonderful parent-child role reversal, with hilarious consequences...
When Dad puts Daisy to bed, he suggests, ‘If I were you . . . I’d go to sleep.’ So cheeky Daisy starts thinking about what things would REALLY be like if she and Dad swapped around. She could feed Dad porridge while she ate chocolate fromage frais and would wheel him past the neighbours all dressed in pink! Dad thinks it would be great not to have to do any cleaning or cooking but to visit the zoo and play in the park instead! |
| Bear Flies High |
Michael Rosen
£6.99, Bloomsbury
A fantastic companion book to The Bear in the Cave, from an award-winning author and illustrator team
Bear is playing on the beach and, seeing the seagulls wheeling above him, decides that he would love to learn how to fly. And there are four children with him who know exactly how to make that happen.
An exhilarating story about friends helping each other to realise their dreams – and having great fun doing it! |
| Zac Zoltan's Mad Monster Agency: Hypno-Dwarves and the Night of the Living Bed |
Knife & Packer
£4.99, Bloomsbury
Captain Underpants meets Batman and Robin
Mankind is sleepwalking towards disaster unless Zac Zoltan and Dr Brains can outwit the fiendish Hynpo-Dwarves
Everything is quiet at the Mad Monster Agency - too quiet. All over town people are increasingly tired. At first they feel drowsy, then chronically lethargic and eventually they can hardly move.
The Agency bunker seems to be immune to whatever is causing the mass tiredness, so Zac and Dr Brains decide to spend the evening there. When they emerge on to the street at midnight they can’t believe what they are seeing. People are being carried away in their beds! Following the procession of beds Zac and the Doctor find themselves deep underground where the victims are put to work digging... but for what, and by whom?
It’s none other than the dreaded Hypno-Dwarves. Hypno-Dwarves are not the cuddly, bearded types. These cave dwellers have been around for centuries, honing their hypnotising skills over the course of time. Their new ruler, known simply as ‘The Eye’, wants much more. He is searching for the mythical jewel know as ‘The Lion’s Claw’. This stone gives those that possess it the power to hypnotise on a huge scale - if the Hypno-Dwarves find it the whole world will fall under their spell! |
| Spitting Cobra, The |
Gill Harvey
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Step back in time with Egyptian Chronicles, and get ready to solve countless mysteries, uncover age-old secrets and enjoy one thrilling adventure after another
The Spitting Cobra is the first in a new series of four books set in ancient Egypt. The Horned Viper, the second Egyptian Chronicle, published in October 2009 and two further instalments will be released in 2010.
Each book is a fantastically atmospheric evocation of Egyptian life encased in an exciting adventure story. The boy and girl characters, Hopi and Isis, feature in each book and readers will be intrigued to follow their struggles for existence and adventure in Egypt circa 1150 BC.
Set in the legendary Valley of the Kings, The Spitting Cobra opens the series with a gripping adventure of royal proportions, as Isis and Hopi try to solve the mystery of who is stealing sacred treasures from the heavily guarded Pharaoh’s tombs. |
| Girls to Total Goddesses |
Sue Limb
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Zoe and Chloe have a mission: to transform themselves into goddesses in seven days (or thereabouts anyway – eight if they need the extra time). But who for? Zoe has a horrible dilemma. Having hated the horrible Beast for making Chloe’s life a misery, Zoe has now realised that all was not as it seemed. When Beast came to both their rescue, Zoe’s heart was completely overturned. But Zoe has told him she never wants to see him again. And how can she get him back without upsetting Chloe? And – more importantly – how can she compete with the gorgeous new girl on the scene, Charlie, with her trim hips, speckly eyes, fabulous mascara and tawny skin? The Goddess Project just got even more complicated . . .
A brilliantly funny new book featuring the comedy duo Zoe and Chloe, from the bestselling Sue Limb. |
| Lulu the Little Big Chick |
Paulette Bogan
£4.49, Bloomsbury
Lulu the chick is little . . . but wants to be big! A charming picture book about wanting to be big and brave, yet accepting that it’s all right to still need reassurance
Lulu is fed up of all the farmyard animals always telling her that she’s too small to do things, so she decides to run away. When the horse, sheep and cow seem to get in her away, Lulu becomes even more determined to leave. But what will happen when she finally goes far, far away without Mummy?
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| Wide-Mouthed Frog, The |
Iain Smyth
£7.99, Bloomsbury
A wide-mouthed frog cheerily asks all the animals what they would like to eat – until he comes across a rather sinister crocodile with a very specific taste in frogs . . . This book, with a clever cut-through and surprise final spread, is based on the classic joke of the wide-mouthed frog – but it works whether you know the joke or not! It is sure to amuse all young children.
A colourful animal novelty book with a very funny ending. |
| Crocodile Tears |
Anthony Horowitz
£6.99, Walker Books
Alex Rider's eighth adventure and the most action-packed yet...
Targeted by a hitman and under threat of his past being exposed by the media, Alex reluctantly turns to MI6. But their help doesn't come cheap: they need Alex to spy on the activities at a GM crop plant. There he spots Desmond McCain, a high profile charity organiser, who realises that Alex is on to him and the real plans for the money he's raising. Kidnapped and whisked off to Africa, Alex learns the full horror of McCain's plot: to create an epic disaster that will kill millions. Forced to ask MI6 for protection, Alex finds himself being manipulated in a deadly game that could lead to the destruction of an entire East African country.
Suitable for ages nine years and over. |
| Skeleton Key Graphic Novel |
Anthony Horowitz
£8.99, Walker Books
An explosive graphic novel adaptation of Alex Rider's third thrilling mission.
Reluctant teenage superspy Alex Rider is useful to MI6 in ways an adult could never be. Now they need his help once again. But a routine reconaissance mission at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships sets off a terrifying chain of events for Alex that sees him on the run from a murderous Chinese triad gang. Forced to hide out, Alex is sent to Cayo Esqueleto – Skeleton Key – an island near Cuba. Waiting for him there is General Alexei Sarov – a coldly insane Russian with explosive plans to rewrite history. Alex faces his most dangerous challenge yet. Alone, and equipped only with a handful of gadgets, Alex must outwit Sarov as the seconds tick away towards the end of the world...
Featuring full-colour, Manga-style art, this graphic novel is ideal for encouraging reluctant readers aged nine years and over. |
| Stormbreaker |
Anthony Horowitz
£6.99, Walker Books
When his guardian dies in suspicious circumstances, fourteen-year-old Alex Rider finds his world turned upside down. Forcibly recruited into MI6, Alex has to take part in gruelling SAS training exercises. Then, armed with his own special set of secret gadgets, he's off on his first mission to Cornwall, where Middle-Eastern multi-billionaire Herod Sayle is producing his state-of-the-art Stormbreaker computers. Sayle has offered to give one free to every school in the country – but there's more to the gift than meets the eye. Visit the Alex Rider website at www.alexrider.com
Suitable for ages nine years and over. |
| Mozart Question, The |
Michael Morpurgo
£5.99, Walker Books
A moving tale of secrets and survival bound together by the power of music, from a master storyteller.
When Lesley is sent to Venice to interview world-renowned violinist Paulo Levi on his fiftieth birthday, she cannot believe her luck. She is told that she can ask him anything at all – except the Mozart question. But it is Paulo himself who decides that it is time for the truth to be told. And so follows the story of his parents as Jewish prisoners of war, forced to play Mozart violin concerti for the enemy; how they watched fellow Jews being led off to their deaths and knew that they were playing for their lives. As the story unfolds, the journalist begins to understand the full horror of war, and how one group of musicians survived using the only weapon they had – music.
Suitable for ages seven years and over. |
| The Disgusting Adventures of Fleabag Monkeyface: Invasion of the Grubby Snatchers |
Knife & Packer
£4.99, Walker Books
The terrific trio are back in their fourth gross-tastic adventure.
When the Kleanonz, the cleanest aliens in the galaxy, land on earth, they are shocked, horrified and appalled – it is the dirtiest planet in the universe. In their mission to clean up the solar system, the aliens have no choice but to eliminate earth and all its inhabitants. Fortunately Gerald, Gene and Fleabag get wise to the plan. Harnessing Fleabag’s Gross-Out Powers, they rocket-boost into outer space in an attempt to stop the Kleanonz. But can they save earth from the biggest spring clean in history?
Suitable for ages seven years and over. |
| Flanimals |
Ricky Gervais
£14.99, Walker Books
The phenomenal Flanimals come to life in this 3D pop-up extravaganza.
The world of Flanimals, madcap creation of comedian and actor Ricky Gervais, is perfectly realized in this lavish pop-up book. From Flanimal evolution and behaviour to Flanimals of the air and of the deep, all aspects of Flanimal life are open to exploration through huge pop-ups and intricate flaps. Perfect for all ages, Flanimals Pop-Up is the ideal introduction to the Flanimal kingdom and the perfect gift for Flanimal lovers everywhere.
Suitable for five years and over. |
| Pop-Up Dracula (Graphic Novel) |
Bram Stoker
£14.99, Walker Books
The greatest gothic horror story ever written, brought to life in this exceptional pop-up graphic novel.
The finest contemporary illustration, dramatic storytelling and superb paper engineering combine to make this spectacular edition. Feel Jonathan's fear as Castle Dracula looms ahead of you; beware the strange wolf leaping out of the page, and don't step too far into the graveyard where demonic spirits are waiting. True to Bram Stoker's classic story, this gripping retelling springs to life with a dramatic pop on every spread. Let Dracula haunt you once more!
Suitable for ages nine years and over. |
| Scream Street 4: Flesh of the Zombie |
Tommy Donvaband
£4.99, Walker Books
The fourth grisly instalment in the Scream Street series.
Party-loving zombies Doug, Turf and Berry are psyched, man! The underworld’s greatest rock festival, Deadstock, is taking place in Scream Street and the community is soon swamped with rotting revellers from across the globe. It appears that Luke, Resus and Cleo will have a soundtrack to their search for the fourth relic – a slice of flesh from a long-vanished zombie. But Sir Otto Sneer has other plans. After an unsuccessful attempt to pull the plug on the concert, he banishes the headlining band, Brain Drain, to the evil Underlands. Now the race is on for Luke and his friends to bring them back – before it's too late...
Suitable for eight years and over. |
| Scream Street 3: Heart of the Mummy |
Tommy Donvaband
£4.99, Walker Books
It's mummy madness in the third thrilling story in the Scream Street series. Will our hero Luke ever get this one wrapped up?
Scream Street has been shrouded in constant night for as long as the residents can remember, but when the streets become covered with millions of crawling spiders, suffocating everything in their path with their thick webbing, the residents realize they’ve had it easy up until now! Meanwhile Luke and his friends are searching for the third relic of the founding fathers, the heart of an ancient mummy, in their quest to return Luke’s parents to the real world. Matters are further complicated when Cleo’s mother turns up out of the blue, having been supposedly lost at sea and missing for many centuries. Luke becomes suspicious, wondering if there's more to Cleo’s mummy than meets the eye – but can he persuade Cleo and her father to believe him before it’s too late?
Suitable for eight years and over. |
| Scream Street 2: Blood of the Witch |
Tommy Donvaband
£4.99, Walker Books
Luke is back and on the hunt for the second relic in this spooktacular next instalment in the Scream Street series
In Scream Street, discarded blood from cuts, grazes and nosebleeds is filtered out of the sewerage system and channelled to the vampire residents via taps in their kitchens. Urgh! In an underhand attempt to force Luke to return Samuel Skipstone’s powerful Tales of Scream Street, Sir Otto Sneer cuts off the blood supply to the house of Luke’s best friend, Resus Negative. Desperate for blood, Alston Negative, Resus’s father, enrages a group of sewer rats, inadvertently creating a swarm of vampire rodents which rise up out of the sewers to attack the residents of the street. Luke, Resus and Cleo must save Scream Street from the rats while searching for the second of the founding fathers’ relics, a vial of witch's blood – and without being turned into vampires themselves.
Suitable for eight years and over. |
| Scream Street 6: Claw of the Werewolf |
Tommy Donvaband
£4.99, Walker Books
Luke is now just one relic away from opening the doorway back to his own world and taking his parents from the terrors of Scream Street – but the final search will plunge him into his most dangerous adventure yet. With the help of Resus and Cleo, Luke hunts for the claw of a werewolf and learns something entirely unexpected about Samuel Skipstone, the author who has helped them so much on their quest. The trio are thus forced into a difficult decision, not helped by the presence of a witch convention in Scream Street which is causing havoc in the neighbourhood. The sixth and final relic is almost in Luke’s grasp, but will it ever be his...? Suitable for ages eight years and over. |
| Scream Street 5: Skull of the Skeleton |
Tommy Donvaband
£4.99, Walker Books
The Headless Horseman, the world’s most famous ghost, makes a personal appearance at Everwell’s Emporium to launch his new perfume, “Decapitation pour l’Homme”. His overbearing gargoyle manager, however, is not impressed when the celebrity’s head is stolen during the event! Eefa Everwell recruits Luke, Resus and Cleo to help with the search, but Luke is on a head hunt of his own: for the skull left behind by the first skeleton to live in Scream Street. Once again Sir Otto Sneer is determined to thwart the trio, and when he launches his own Frankenstein-esque monster to terrorize them into handing over the relics of the first four founding fathers, it’s all they can do to keep their own heads…Suitable for ages eight years and over. |
| Scream Street 7: Invasion of the Normals |
Tommy Donbavand
£4.99, Walker Books
The spine-tingling seventh book in the Scream Street series.
A seventh book? How can this be? Did Luke, Resus and Cleo fail in their quest? Are Luke and his parents trapped in Scream Street for ever? And how can there be a normal invasion? Watch this space...
Suitable for ages eight years and over. |
| Magician's Elephant, The |
Kate DiCamillo
£8.99, Walker Books
"Magic is always impossible," said the magician. "It begins with the impossible and ends with the impossible and is impossible in between. That is why it is magic."
What if? Why not? Could it be? When a fortune-teller's tent appears in the market square of the city of Baltese, orphan Peter Augustus Duchene knows the questions that he must ask: Does his sister still live? And if so, how can he find her? The fortune-teller's mysterious answer (An elephant! An elephant will lead you there!) sets off a chain of events so remarkable, so impossible, that you will hardly dare to believe it is true. With atmospheric illustrations by fine artist Yoko Tanaka, here is a dreamlike and captivating tale that could only be told by Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo. In this timeless fable, she evokes the largest of themes – hope and belonging, desire and compassion – with the lightness of a magician’s touch.
Suitable for ages eight years and over. |
| The Head is Dead |
Tanya Landman
£4.99, Walker Books
Fourth in the brilliantly addictive new series of murder mysteries by an acclaimed and popular writer.
Poppy Fields and best friend Graham design a murder mystery trail for the school fayre, choosing the headteacher to be the corpse at the end. But when the first person to finish discovers that the head really is dead, Poppy and Graham set out on a real life murder trail.
Suitable for ages 10 years and over. |
| Dying to be Famous |
Tanya Landman
£4.99, Walker Books
Third in the brilliantly addictive new series of murder mysteries by an acclaimed and popular writer.
Poppy Fields and best friend Graham are astonished to be given parts in a musical production of The Wizard of Oz. Even more astonishing is the series of murders that occurs at the theatre, targeting the leading lady. When Poppy and Graham investigate, little do they know that they are next on the murderer’s list…
Suitable for ages 10 years and over. |
| Red Ted and the Lost Things |
Michael Rosen
£9.99, Walker Books
With bravery, teamwork and lots of common sense, a forgotten bear finds his way home in this warm, wise, and very funny graphic picture book by Children's Laureate Michael Rosen and illustrated by Joel Stewart.
One day, a little bear named Red Ted is accidentally left on the seat of a train by his owner Stevie and ends up in the place for lost things. He doesn’t despair, however – he puts his mind to work! With the help of his new friends, a pessimistic crocodile and a cat with a fondness for cheese, Ted finds his way home to the little girl who loves and misses him. Author Michael Rosen and illustrator Joel Stewart offer a sweet graphic storybook about pluck, persistence, and the pure comfort of home at the end of a long journey full of adventure.
Suitable for ages three years and over. |
| Monster Republic |
Ben Horton
£5.99, Random House
Edgy. Exhilarating. Power-paced. X-Men meets Terminator.
Have you got the guts?
An explosion in a nuclear power plant.
Kids patched up with scavenged body parts and bionic implants. A growing army of superhuman soldiers programmed for destruction.
“No,” whispered Cameron to the monster in the glass. And he watched it shaking its hideous head. “That’s not me. You’re not me.”
As commercial and compelling as a computer game, this is the first book in a major new series of fast-paced, action packed sci-fi novels with dialogue, short chapters, exciting battles and feisty characters for teenage readers. |
| Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days |
Jeff Kinney
£7.99, Puffin Books
Fourth book in the hilarious Wimpy Kid series...
It's the summer holidays, the weather's great, and all the kids are having fun outside. So where's Greg Heffley? Inside his house, playing video games with the shades drawn.
Greg, a self-confessed 'indoor person,' is living out his ultimate summer fantasy: no responsibilities and no rules. But Greg's mom has a different vision for an ideal summer . . . one packed with outdoor activities and 'family togetherness.'
Whose vision will win out? Or will a new addition to the Heffley family change everything?
The eagerly-awaited next instalment in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series has arrived - publishing for the very first time in the UK in hardback! Split your sides laughing as Greg Heffley struggles with all the trials and tribulations of school, family and friends that come with being everyone's favourite wimpy kid! |
| Mr Stink |
David Walliams
£12.99, Harper Collins
The second original, touching, twisted, and most of all hilarious novel for children by David Walliams – beautifully illustrated by Quentin Blake.
"Mr Stink stank. He also stunk. And if it was correct English to say he stinked, then he stinked as well…” Chloe sees Mr Stink every day, but she’s never spoken to him. Which isn’t surprising, because he’s a tramp, and he stinks. But there’s more to Mr Stink than meets the eye (or nose) and before she knows it, Chloe has an unusual new friend hiding in her garden shed. As Chloe struggles to keep Mr Stink a secret, and her dad tries to hide a secret of his own, the stage is set for an epic family confrontation. But there's one other person with a an extraordinary secret – Mr Stink himself…
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| Specky Becky Bucks |
John Quinn
€7.99, Poolbeg
Rebecca Buckley has one passion - Gaelic Football – and one dream - to play Gaelic Football in Croke Park. She is known to her friends as Becky Bucks. She wears glasses (plastic bendy ones) so some people call her Specky Becky Bucks! There is not much time for Becky's passion at school, but everything changes when a new teacher, Mr. O'Sullivan, arrives. He arranges five-a-side trials for a school team. Becky does enough to impress Mr. O'Sullivan and makes the under-ten squad.
The long road to Croke Park and the Schools Cup Final begins. Lots of training, matches against Holy Angels School (angels they were not!) and the "Plum Puddings".
Soon her team are just one match away from the final in Croke Park. Then disaster strikes. She misses an open goal and they are out! Her dream of playing in Croke Park is shattered. Or is it?
Specky Becky Bucks is a wonderful, action-packed tale of one little girl following her dream.
With the love of Gaelic football at its core this book is more than just a good story. It teaches children about gender equality (Becky playing a “boys” sport), multi-ethnicity (recognising the changing tapestry of Ireland) and the importance of inter-generational relationships (Becky learns a lot from her Grandad and next door neighbours).
This contemporary story is a new direction for bestselling children’s author, John Quinn. Specky Becky Bucks is his sixth children’s book. He has sold over 30,000 copies of his pervious books to date. Previous titles include The Summer of Lily & Esme and Duck and Swan also by Poolbeg Press
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| The Mysterious Benedict Society |
TRENTON LEE STEWART
£5.99, Chicken House
Orphan Reynie answers an ad in the paper for gifted children looking for special opportunities. After a series
of the strangest tests imaginable he is chosen with three others to attempt a dangerous assignment to help
prevent a dastardly plan to control everyone’s minds. If they thought the man who had chosen them was a bit odd, they are going to be more surprised by the head of the
school they have to infiltrate. They are certainly going to have to keep their wits about them as they solve codes and clues and spy their way to the centre of operations.
This is a curious, absorbing, fast paced adventure with well rounded, likable characters. |
| Dognapped! |
KAREN KING
£5.99, Quest
Amy considers herself to be a bit of a sleuth, which comes in handy when her grandmother’s dog goes missing while she’s supposed to be looking after it. As ransom notes arrive, it’s obvious the dog has been dognapped, but why
and by whom? It was favourite to win in an up and coming dog show — could jealousy be a motive? There are plenty of suspects for Amy — and you — to pursue, and lots of clues… see if you spot the ‘red herrings’. One of the ‘Amy Carter Mysteries’ series, this is a pacey story which gives the reader plenty of scope to join in anyway, but if you want to get even deeper involved there are five podcasts you can listen to that give further clues. Fairly large print, medium length novel. |
| Mine’s Bigger Than Yours |
JEANNE WILLIS/ADRIAN RAYNOLDS
£5.99, Anderson
Little Hairy Monster was enjoying her lollipop until Scary Monster popped up demanding it because he was bigger than her. Little Hairy Monster refused and walked off. She wouldn’t give in, no matter how much Scary Monster threatened and bullied her. She was being very brave, and clever, at avoiding his threats, but he was much bigger than her and eventually had her trapped in a cave. Everything about him was bigger than her — or was it? He could be in for a big surprise. Read this very funny, beautifully illustrated book to find out what happens. |
| The Dragons of Ordinary Farm |
TAD WILLIAMS/ DEBORAH BEALE
£9.99, Quercus Hb
Tyler and Lucinda aren’t enthusiastic about spending the summer on a farm with an uncle they have never met. Once there, they soon realise how ironically named Ordinary Farm is. It is about as far from ordinary as it is possible to get. A dragon is the first of the weird creatures kept there,
and the human occupants are far from usual as well. No one seems willing to explain it all and the children’s quest for information reveals ever more shocking details and a looming threat. This is an unusual, engrossing story full of excitement and shocks. |
| Doughnuts, Dreams and Drama Queens |
LEILA RASHEED
£5.99, Usborne
The third diary of Bathsheba de Trop, the real life daughter of a famous author whose stories star a fabulous, fictional version of her daughter. Desperate to be an actress, Bathsheba is thrilled to be going to Dramarama camp where she hopes to get noticed. Her initial plans are spoilt when her friend can’t go, but she is determined to make the most of her chance and it all starts well. However there’s a big shock in store for her in this very entertaining story. Follow her highs and lows in her letters and diary extracts that are really involving. Fair size print, medium length novel. |
| Big Bad Bun |
JEANNE WILLIS/ TONY ROSS
£10.99, Anderson
Pity Big Bad Bun’s mum and dad when they read the letter he’d left before he ran away. It told them no one could have
had a rabbit so bad. He’d joined the Hell Bunnies and was doing the most awful things: fighting, eating worms, dying his tail, having his ears pierced… the list went on. His poor parents would probably have given anything to have him back as he was — no matter what… surely nothing could be as bad as that… find out in this hilarious story with equally funny pictures and a great twist in the tale |
| Stuff That Scares Your Pants Off! |
GLENN MURPHY
£4.99, MacMillan
We all have things we are afraid of — some logical, others less so — but working on the principle that understanding your fear or phobia can help overcome it, this book explains most scary things to help you become more adventurous. Full of fascinating facts, it also looks at fears themselves, what causes them and how to avoid or overcome them.
From scary wildlife and natural disasters to unlikely events and dentists; fears you are born with and those you develop - it’s all here! It makes compelling reading and may even change your life!! |
| Twin Trouble |
Egmont
£4.99, Egmont
First book in a new series: ‘The David Beckham Academy’. James and Adam are twins — identical in looks, but with very different characters and football abilities. As they head for their first day at the academy talented scorer James looks forward to standing out and starting a career, egged on by their father. Adam just wants to enjoy himself knowing he doesn’t share his brother’s talent. Once there both have lessons to learn — and it isn’t just about playing football. Entertaining story showing the value of self confidence and teamwork. Short novel with large print and quite a few pictures for newly developing readers. Three more books in the series are also out now. |
| The Thornthwaite Inheritance |
GARETH P. JONES
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Orphans Lorelli and Ovid Thornthwaite are heirs to a vast fortune. Brought up by servants to a strict and solemn routine in a vast mansion, their one joy in life is their numerous attempts to kill each other — murder runs in their genes it seems. However, when they decide to call a truce other people become involved in their lives and murderous attempts continue. Has one of them broken their promise, or does someone else have ulterior motives? What starts off as an intriguing ‘whodunnit’ develops into a ‘whydunnit’ and ‘what was actually done?’ Is there anyone who isn’t hiding something? There are plenty of plot twists and surprises for all in this unputdownable story with a cracking mixture of humour, menace and adventure. Fair sized print, full length novel for capable readers, great to share with less able ones. |
| Dark Summer |
ALI SPARKES
£5.99, Oxford
Eddie hates having to stay with his aunt and cousins for the
summer but a visit to Wookey Hole caves lifts his spirits,
especially when he is shown parts of the caves not on the
typical tourist trail by a new, unusual friend and looks forward to more visits. Back at the house he also enjoys time with old Uncle Wilf and is disgusted by the way he is treated by the rest of the family. This increases when he discovers what is planned for the old man. As he learns more deep secrets of the caves a daring plan is hatched to help Wilf, and probably Eddie’s future happiness. This is a gripping, unusual story with many exciting and unexpected events and plenty of surprises to keep you guessing to the end. Medium length novel for fairly confident readers. |
| The Vampire Book |
DK
£12.99, DK
With a recent resurgence of Vampire books, films and TV
programmes, this book examines the age old myths and legends, their origins and powers they are supposed to possess. It also looks at how their portrayal has changed
over time and examines popular vampire hunters such as Van Helsing and Buffy. All in a colourfully illustrated, sumptuous book |
| Ghosts and Gadgets |
MARCUS SEDGWICK
£7.99, Orlon
When Lord Valevine’s invention doesn’t work and the hired ghost hunter acts suspiciously, Edgar the raven sets out to find the ghosts that are scaring the Otherhand family
servants to death. Funny story inhabited by weird and wonderful characters — and that’s just the family! Second in the Raven Mysteries series. Medium length novel with large print and some pictures. |
| The Spookoscope |
CECI JENKINSON
£4.99, FF
Oli and Skipjack manage to turn an innocent school trip into another of their madcap adventures when they ‘borrow’ a ghost detector at the same time as a clairvoyant has been hired to find ghosts to attract visitors to a castle. She is a fake, but the boys manage to find the real thing and risk being haunted forever. Lots of fun and confusion in this
medium length book with fair sized print and some pictures. |
| Goblin Games |
JAKE LANCING
£4.99, Puffin
Latest ‘Demon Defenders’ sees our earthbound angels defying orders to go to the Midnight Fair at Hallowe’en. Whilst trying to reverse a spell that goes wrong, they realise the fair is in fact run by goblins and soon become embroiled in a plot with some unlikely allies to stop demons being let loose. More fast paced excitement mixed with plenty of humour in this medium length novel. |
| Witch Baby and Me After Dark |
DEBI GLIORI
£4.99, Corgi
Hallowe’en isn’t the best time to be around a witch baby sister you want to keep secret. With heightened powers Lily’s sister is even more of a handful than usual. This third book in the series is as gloriously chaotic as ever with some hair raising moments. |
| The Everyday Witch |
LIZ MARTINEZ/ MARK BEECH
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Jimmy doesn’t believe in witches until he sees his mum fly past on a broomstick. He’s sure he imagined it but research shows she does have some witchlike characteristics. His
only option is to ask her outright — what will her answer be? Humourous picture book written in rhyme to help encourage newly developing readers. |
| Trixie the Witch’s Cat |
NICK BUTTERWORTH
£10.99, Puffin
The only thing stopping Trixie being happy is her one white paw - not a good look for a black witch's cat. After various failed attempts to get rid of it, she resorts to magic with surprising results. Amusing, touching picture book with expressive llustrations. |
| The Disappearing Moon |
SIMON BARTRAM
£4.99, Templar
First in a new series of Bob and Barry’s Lunar Adventures. Bob still doesn’t believe in aliens and loves his job looking after the moon, but this is threatened when a magician makes the moon disappear. Bob is determined to find out what has happened and his keen sense of observation, which Barry, his 6-legged doggy sidekick will vouch for, should be a big help! Plenty of hilarious episodes await the pair in this short novel with lots of great illustrations. Perfect for new readers, but fun for all ages and abilities. I loved these characters when they appeared in ‘Man on the Moon’ and they are still very entertaining! |
| The Willoughbys |
LOIS LOWRY
£9.99, Boxer Books Hb
The Willoughbys are an old fashioned kind of family who
like to base their lives on classic stories. Realising old
fashioned children are often orphans, and having inept
parents, the children come up with an evil plan to become
just that. They little realise their parents have their own
plan to become childless. Left with a nanny while their
parents go away their lives start to change for the better, but this is just the first of many changes for them and those around them. This is a highly unusual story that frequently had me laughing out loud. It has many subplots expertly woven together and is full of unexpected twists that will
keep you gripped to the end. Fair sized print, medium length novel. |
| Who Wants to Be A Poodle - I don’t |
LAUREN CHILD
£10.99, Puffin
Verity Brulee liked everything to be ‘just so’ - including Trixie Twinkle Toes Trot-a-lot Delight, her adored poodle. You would think living in the lap of luxury would make Trixie a happy dog, but it didn’t. She didn’t like the pampering, being dressed in ponchos, staying indoors and worse of all
- her silly name. She longed to be outside, running around getting mucky like real dogs do, but every time she tried telling Verity this, she was pampered even more. It looks
like only a near disaster could change anything. Find out what happens in this funny, touching picture book with just a few sentences on each page cleverly incorporated into the amusing, stylised illustrations which add much to the story. Great to share. Having lived with some very lively, unpampered poodles myself, this really struck a chord! |
| Charlie Bone and the Red Knight |
JENNY NIMMO
£12.99, Egmont Hb
The breathtaking finale to this fantastic series will have you on the edge of your seat. As the evil descendants of the Red King gather more allies, Charlie seems to be losing some of his. With Billy still entrapped, one of his other friends tricked into changing sides, their meeting place closed, the Enchanter ready to come and take everything back to his past and Charlie’s parents on holiday with danger looming things aren’t looking good. One thing in their favour is a mysterious Red Knight who turns up at opportune moments rescuing them, but who is he? Surely he can’t be the Red King himself, and if he is only human how much help will he be? It is all leading up to a great battle and a fight to the death, but which side will be victorious? Full of magic, thrills and excitement with plenty of humour cleverly woven in, this story ties up all the loose ends of the series in an interesting and satisfying way. I will really miss these characters and recommend this series to anyone who hasn’t already started it. Large print, full length novel that is great to share. |
| boom! |
MARK HADDON
£10.99, David Fickling Hb
Whilst bugging their school staff room, Jimbo and Charles hear two of their teachers talking in a strange language — or is it code? They later notice a blue light coming from the same teacher’s eyes, there’s something odd going on. They find more coded messages, and Charles thinks he has started to work it out when he disappears. Against his better judgement, Jimbo sets off to find his friend with an unexpected ally. There follows an incident ridden chase with plenty of shocks instore for them — and us — ending in an impossible situation fraught with danger. This is a gripping, exciting, pacey story with a clever mix of drama and humour. Large print to encourage readers onto medium length novels. |
| Uncle Andy’s Cats |
JAMES WARHOLA
£11.99, Putnam Hb
Uncle Andy is an artist who lives an unusual life in a tall, skinny house with Bubba. He’s given a blue cat called Hester and gets a white cat called Sam to play with her. They soon have lots of kittens, all like their father, so all are called Sam. The house is perfect for cats to play in, but after another litter of Sams arrived it was obvious there were just too many of them for one house. So Andy has an unusual plan to find them good homes. See what it is in this very funny picture book with bright, colourful illustrations that add to the story and give a small insight into the life and thinking of Andy Warhol! |
| Horned Viper, The |
Gill Harvey
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Step back in time with Egyptian Chronicles, and get ready to solve countless mysteries, uncover age-old secrets and enjoy one thrilling adventure after another
The Horned Viper is the second in a new series of four books set in ancient Egypt. The Spitting Cobra, the first in the series, was published in August 2009. Two further instalments will be released in 2010.
Each book is a well researched and atmospheric evocation of Egyptian life encased in an exciting adventure story. The boy and girl characters, Hopi and Isis, feature in each book and readers will be intrigued to follow their struggles for existence and adventure in Egypt circa 1150 BC.
In this story, The Horned Viper, Isis and Hopi find themselves on the banks of the River Nile, pitting their wits against dangerous servants. |
| Alice to the Rescue |
Judi Curtin
€7.95, O'Brien Press
Winning is a good thing, isn’t it?
Everyone in first year is really excited about the big prize in the English essay competition – four months in France – and Alice has a good chance of winning.
Megan loves writing essays, but she doesn’t want to win – go away for four months alone, no way! She doesn’t want Alice to go either – why would anyone want to go abroad without her best friend? But Alice seems determined to win …
How much should you give up for your best friend?
The seventh book in Judi Curtin's bestselling series.
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| Newsround Yearbook |
BBC
£8.99, BBC Children's Books
Making headlines in September is the Newsround Yearbook. On screen continuously since 1972, Newsround attracts viewers both on air and online. It has an audience of nearly one million viewers and attracts an average of 200,000 to its website.
Divided into six major categories, the book focuses on environment & nature, politics, citizenship, science & technology, entertainment and sport. It’s packed with top news stories, hot issue and interesting facts – and follows the 2008-2009 year.
The Newsround Yearbook is also completely interactive, with pages throughout the book for aspiring young reporters to write their own stories or stick in their favourite newspaper cuttings. To help you on road to becoming a reporter, there’s information on what makes news newsworthy, tips on reporting, facts about journalism and presenter questionnaires from some of the Newsround team. There’s also a comprehensive glossary and website addresses for kids to access further research. Aimed at 7-9 year olds, the Yearbook will retail at £9.99.
Your news, your stories… it’s your world!
|
| Pig City |
LOUIS SACHAR
£5.99, Bloomsbury
The ban on all clubs at school makes the idea more appealing to Laura. So she starts a secret club called Pig City. To ensure complete secrecy, everyone who joins has to give something really embarrassing as insurance which could be used against them if they betray the club. Membership grows but when a jealous classmate plays a mean trick a rival club is formed. The initial friendly rivalry gets less so as retaliations start to spiral out of control and
more than just feelings get hurt. This is an engrossing, entertaining, well crafted story with plenty of humour mixed with slightly darker moments. It shows how complicated friendships and motives can be. |
| The Magic Half |
ANNIE BARROWS
£4.99, David Fickling Books
It’s no fun being the middle child between two sets of twins. Your family is a rarity but you’re not the rare part as Miri knows too well. She wishes magic was real as she explores her new house, but then a discovery seems to make her wish come true. She goes back to 1935 and discovers an unhappy girl of about her own age who is sure Miri is magical and has come back to save her from her very unhappy life. Could Miri be her saviour? You have to be careful when going back in time — change things and you could affect the future. There’s lots of intriguing developments in this gripping adventure story with some heart stopping moments. Medium length novel for fairly capable read |
| Without Looking Back |
TABITHA SUZUMA
£5.99, Corgi
It was a worrying time for Louis, Max and Millie waiting to see if their father would win his court case to see them regularly. All seems to have gone well when their weekend
visit with him turns into an exciting trip abroad. But Louis worries that all isn’t as it seems, why are they doing up a holiday home and buying furniture for a short stay? An
overheard phone call and ‘missing’ poster reveal the truth leaving the children with a hard, almost impossible, decision to make which includes a massive change and a life of
uncertainty. This is a compelling story with plenty of dramatic and exciting episodes and plot twists to keep you guessing to the end. Medium length novel for older, capable
readers. |
| Choking Wolf |
DOSH ARCHER
£4.99, Bloomsbury
Doctor Glenda needs Nurse Percy’s help when a choking wolf is brought into the hospital, but first he needs help
overcoming his fear of wolves. There’s a big surprise in store as treatment continues in this funny story. Large print, a few sentences and big pictures on each page for younger readers ready to go from picture books to first novels. One of three books out in the new ‘Urgency Emergency!’ series. |
| The Princess and the Peabodys |
BETTY G BIRNEY
£5.99, FF
Nothing prepares Casey and her family for the shock of a Medieval Princess appearing from an old box bought at a yard sale. Egglantine has been magicked forward in time and must stay until her learner wizard can get the right spell to send her back. But she is very regal and knows nothing about ordinary Medieval life, let alone that of the 21st Century. She and tomboy soccer playing Casey are poles apart, is there any way they could help each other? This is an unusual story with a nice mix of magic and comedy. it shows how well people can adapt and that basic needs and characteristics are the same no matter where or
when you are from. |
| Magic Spirit |
PIPPA FUNNELL
£4.99, Orion
Tilly lived and breathed horses and dreamed of being able to ride one of her own. She was in town one day when a scared horse was in the middle of the road stopping traffic. No one would go near him as he reared up in fear, but Tilly didn’t hesitate and was able to calm him. She went with him to a local stables and seemed to be the only one he responded to. The stable owner invited her to help out
and she soon made friends there. Could her dreams be about to come true? Find out in this first in a new series ‘Tilly’s Pony Tales’, the second book, Red Admiral, is also out now. Short novel with fair sized print and some pictures for developing readers. |
| Playing With Fire |
JONATHAN HARLEN
£5.99, A & C Black
As a Sports PI Fletcher is used to being called in to solve cases but is shocked when the Australian rugby team coach is kidnapped from his side. He naturally wants to find out who did it and is even keener when there’s a chance
Bolivar, the man he knows is behind his parents ‘accident’ is involved in it. With help Fletcher follows the often dangerous trail that leads to the kidnappers with some nasty surprises on the way. An exciting detective story with a difference that will keep you hooked to the end. One of the new ‘Fletcher Smith Sports PI’ series and the good news is another, ‘Dangerous Games’, is also out now. |
| Rent Party Jazz |
WILLIAM MILLER/CHARLOTTE RILEY-WEBB
£5.99, Lee & Low Books
Listening to horn player, Smilin’ Jack helped Sonny forget is fears of losing his home. He went so often Smilin’ Jack recognised him and seeing how unhappy he was suggested reviving an old custom to raise money while having a good time. See if it works in this touching picture book full of bold, atmospheric illustrations. Fairly small print and lots of sentences on each page could encourage
reluctant readers. |
| What Does Daddy Do? |
RACHEL BRIGHT
£5.99, Puffin,
Daisy’s dad takes her to nursery and then goes somewhere until it is time to pick her up. But when her friends talk about their dads’ jobs and ask what her dad does, she doesn’t know. Putting together little clues from things he’s said she realises he must be an Explorer Super Knight. See how she arrives at this conclusion in this very funny picture book with hilarious illustrations. Large font and a few sentences on each page make it perfect for beginner readers, but fun for all ages and abilities. |
| The TV Time Travellers |
PETE JOHNSON
£4.99, Corgi Yearling
An interest in World War II helps Zac
forget his unhappy home life. He is
ecstatic to get a chance to escape his life
and live like an evacuee by winning a
place on a new reality TV show,
Strictly Evacuees. For Izzy, the show is
a chance to help her mum out with some
extra money and gain some fame. With three other children
they are told to expect the unexpected, but are
unprepared for the strict regime they have to live
under. Why were at least two highly rebellious children
chosen? The producers of the show are about to get more
than they bargained for in another highly entertaining,
unputdownable story from this accomplished author. Told by
both Zac and Izzy, it unfolds from two varying viewpoints
which adds to the pleasure and is full of surprises so you
really don’t know where it is heading, but can’t wait to find
out. Fairly large print, to encourage readers onto a medium
length novel. |
| Switched (My Sister the Vampire) |
SIENNA MERCER
£5.99, Egmont
Olivia feels the usual anxiety as she starts her new school. Keen to try out for cheerleader and wearing her favourite
pink clothes she is the antithesis of the serious looking Goth girl, Ivy, who surprisingly helps her. Despite their many differences, Ivy seems strangely drawn to Olivia seeing a certain likeness to herself. On discovering they share the same birthday, were adopted and have the same ring they realise they are twins. Keeping this a secret they are able to switch places and use their unique characteristics to help each other. BUT there is something Olivia has yet to learn about her twin which goes further than being a Goth. This is the first in a new series with a
clue in the title: ‘My Sister the Vampire’. There’s lots of fun in this medium length novel with fairly large print. |
| Library Mouse |
DANIEL KIRK
£7.99, Abrams Hb
Follow up to ‘The Library Mouse’. Tom, a member of the library’s writer and illustrator club, suspects he knows the identity of Sam, the writer of the story in the little notebook he finds. Will he be able to form a writer/illustrator partnership while keeping Sam’s identity secret? Read this amusing and touching story full of colourful, bold illustrations to find out. |
| Blues Brothers (Drake & Josh) |
Nickelodeon
£3.99, Simon & Schuster
Part of ‘Drake and Josh’ series. Quiet, studious Josh has little in common with happy go lucky, confident Drake until their parents marry making them step-brothers. Josh’s fragile confidence takes a knock when a TV appearance goes horribly wrong. He just wants to hide away until surprisingly Drake needs his help. It is Josh who needs help when his attempts to lead the campfire kids don’t go according to plan and Drake makes a surprising decision. There is plenty to identify with in this book with two short
stories which could encourage reluctant readers |
| Don’t Read This Book! |
JILL LEWIS/ DEBORAH ALLWRIGHT
£5.99, Egmont
The King is adamant you don’t read this book. You may think this is strange, but the problem is his storywriter has lost most of the pages of the story so there isn’t one to read. If like me you still can’t resist turning the pages you’ll see the great lengths they go to to find the story and the well-known characters they meet on the way. It is definitely worth ignoring the King’s orders (but don’t tell him I said so!) to enjoy this hilarious and unusual book. The vivid
pictures add so many details to the story. I love it! |
| Black Heart |
JUSTIN SOMPER
£6.99, Simon & Schuster
The fourth in the Vampirates series starts with the twins, Connor and Grace, together having met their mother for the first time in very strange circumstances. As the story of their
parents’ past unfolds Grace, who feels at home in the world of vampires, is more comfortable with it than her brother who prefers his life with human pirates and returns to it leaving her to learn all she can from their mother. Meanwhile, a new Vampirate crew has emerged causing mayhem amongst both groups of pirates. A particularly nasty murder causes the human pirates to go all out to kill the perpetrators. Grace has managed to convince Connor there are good and bad Vampirates, but will he be able to convince the other pirates out for revenge? The shocking truth of their birth affects each twin differently, but what effect will it have on their futures? There is plenty of fast-paced action in this dramatic story mixed with quieter,
emotive scenes as strong relationships are formed and tested and unexpected alliances made. Full length novel for
mature, capable readers with a recap of the story so far so those new to the series can enjoy this story. 100% Me (DK Hb,£7.99 |
| No Ordinary Girl |
Nickelodeon
£, Simon & Schuster
First in new series H2O. After she is tricked onto a boat and left floating out to sea, Cleo is saved by new girl Rikki who proceeds to take her on joyride. They are joined by Cleo’s friend, Emma, but end up stranded on a mysterious island. After more mishaps they are trapped in a deep cave
with only an underground channel to escape through. Before they can do so the full moon has a magical effect on them with life changing results. Back home they try to live normal lives knowing any contact with water will change them. They must try to keep this secret while coping with the different powers over water each girl is developing. Large print, short novel for developing readers. |
| What Mr Darwin Saw |
MICK MANNING/ BRITA GRANSTROM
£12.99, Frances Lincoln Hb
Charles Darwin had been interested in natural history from an early age. As a young man he jumped at the chance to sail on a voyage on board HMS Beagle. He made many careful observations of wildlife in the places they visited which lead to his theory of evolution by natural selection.
Follow his progress in this entertaining and informative picture book full of cartoons and notes from his diary |
| The Very Hungry Caterpillar Pop-Up Book |
ERIC CARLE
£14.99, Puffin
To celebrate its 40th anniversary, you can now see in 3D how the caterpillar tried to stop his hunger, the damage he caused in the process and his beautiful transformation. At the same time you can join in by pulling the tabs and turning the wheel to move him on. The original was gorgeous, this is even more so bringing new life to a firm children’s favourite. |
| Ctrl-Z |
ANDREW NORRISS
£4.99, Puffin
Alex was usually really excited to get a present from his Godfather who always gave unusual presents. However he was disappointed this time with the battered old laptop, he’d got a better, new computer for Christmas. But while setting the date and time he makes a mistake and finds himself back in time a few minutes about to set the time again. He soon realises the laptop has a function that allows you to go back in time and correct mistakes. This is especially useful with an extremely accident prone friend like he has. Alex puts his discovery to good use and has a lot of fun but, when he nearly gets permanently stuck in the same four minutes, he realises he has to be very careful. This is reinforced when the laptop’s batteries run down and he can’t recharge them. There are plenty of laughs, drama and action in this unusual story as well as food for thought — how would you use such a machine? I’ve had a few ideas! Fair size print encourages developing readers to try a slightly longer novel. |
| The Honourable Ratts |
KAREN WALLACE
£4.99, A&C Black
Zola and Spencer Ratt live with their great aunts under the floorboards of Clawfoot Hall. The family has lived there for a hundred years since their small size made living in the big rooms above difficult. It is said the family have rat blood running through their veins which could explain their size and sharp hearing. One thing is sure they have been collecting together the Great Ratt Hoard for generations and now after one small mistake on Zola’s part their ancient
enemies have tracked them down and want the hoard. Neither the children or their aunts know where it is, but their lives are at stake. Can the hoard be found and lives saved without relinquishing their inheritance? Find out in this unusual, highly entertaining story. Fair sized print and some pictures for newly developing readers. |
| Hattie the Bad |
JANE DEVLIN/ JOE BERGER
£5.99, Puffin
Hattie was REALLY bad which got her lots of friends whose parents didn’t like the friendship and stopped them playing with her. Hattie didn’t like that, it made her sad so she decided to be good… REALLY good. This made her popular with the grown ups, but not with their children and Hattie was sad again. There was only one thing for it, find out what in this very funny book. |
| The Sand Dancers: Let the Dance Begin |
LYNDA WATERHOU
£5.99, Piccadilly
Cassie is determined to get into the Sandringham Dance School when it reopens after 7 years. It isn’t that she is particularly keen to become a sanddancer, but feels she can find out the truth about her mother’s dissappearance there and clear the cloud that surrounds her name. Once
there however, she begins to feel the need to become a prima dune dancer as her mother was. She makes friends, encounters jealousy and unearths secrets as she begins her journey of discovery in this first book of a new series : ‘Sand Dancers’. There’s plenty of adventure and some surprises in this medium length novel with fair
sized print. |
| Late for School |
STEPHANIE CALMENSON
£1.99, (Carolrhoda Hb
Teacher Mr Bungles has a strict rule: you must never ever ever be late for school. So imagine his horror when he wakes up late one morning. In a panic he tries desperate means to reach school on time, but everything is against him. Might he have to adapt his rule slightly? Find out what happens in this hilarious story with striking illustrations. It
had me chuckling out loud. |
| The Battle for Gullywith |
SUSAN HILL
£6.99, Bloomsbury
Olly isn’t happy moving to his new home, Gullywith — even less so when he sees it. It looks as if it’s falling down, and parts of it do. No one has lived there in a long time and something just doesn't feel right. Then stones with strange markings keep appearing and slowly Olly starts to learn the ancient secret behind it all. Something is controlling the stones and it wants Gullywith back. Although he hated it at first, Olly is determined not to give it up, even if it means
fighting magical forces which are stronger than him. He does have help, often without knowing who from. An exciting, gripping story full of magic, mystery and adventure. Full length novel for older, capable readers. |
| Whitaker’s World of Weird |
TRACEY TURNER
£9.99, A & C Black Hb
If you needed proof it’s a weird and wonderful world out here, here it is! This book covers an amazing range of examples in sections including Weird Life, Earth, Encounters, Science, Minds, Human Body, Behaviour, Things to Do and the Unexplained. It is all clearly laid out with plenty of illustrations and is great to dip in to, although I have to admit I was so engrossed I read it cover to cover! It also has some weird things for you to try yourself including growing a stalactite, making lightening and performing a magic trick. Did you know the world’s most
poisonous creature has a strange secret, how an ant can sew up a wound or where you can go to see the Museum of Dirt? Yes, you’ll have enough ‘Did you knows’ to keep family and friends entertained for ages, and better still
there is a web address given for each subject, so you have an almost endless supply! |
| Further Adventures of Frank N. Stein & the Great Green Greedy Garbage |
ANN JUNGMAN
£4.99, Barn Owl
The monster Frank N. Stein and his friends made had become very famous eating all the rubbish. He enjoyed being popular and was very upset when the bin men started protesting against him. They were afraid he was going to put him out of work. To get away from the trouble Frank, his monster and family accept an offer to go to Germany, but get into more trouble because he is eating things that could be recycled. A solution is found and the monster sets up a Rebiking Centre, but he falls in love and loses his appetite. Will Frank be able to make him a lady monster? There are lots of laughs and confusions in these two short stories with fair size print and quite a few pictures which could encourage reluctant readers. |
| Classroom Demons |
JAKE LANCING
£4.99, Puffin
Just because Alex, Spit, House, Inchy and Cherry are angels doesn't mean they can’t have fun. They make a great football team and aren’t above playing tricks. The trouble is one of these backfires on Archangel Gabriel, who seems to be lacking a sense of humour and sends them to earth (minus wings) to learn how to behave. They have to go to school, which is even worse than they thought, especially Mr Dante, a teacher who takes an instant dislike to them. They suspect there is more to him than meets the eye and
what with the odd rumblings and high temperature in school set out to discover what is going on, but are totally unprepared for what they discover. Can they do something heroic to get back home? There is plenty of humour mixed with fast paced action in this first in a new series, “Demon Defenders’. Fair sized print, medium length novel. Book 2, ‘Zombies in the House’ is out now as well. |
| Colin the Coastguard: Frisky Falls Overboard |
Catherine Shaw (Author), Steve Goodwin (Illustrator)
£3.99, Kittiwake
The next book in the ‘Colin the Coastguard’ series is here! Written by Catherine Shaw, the same author who brought you ‘Colin rescues Slippy’, comes the second story ‘Colin the Coastguard: Frisky Falls Overboard’. As before the book is beautifully illustrated by Steve Goodwin.
The story is about the main character, Colin, who leads the Rescue Team of Tideswell Bay, sending in his team to rescue the poor dog Frisky, who has fallen overboard into the sea! You follow the step by step actions taken to make sure Frisky gets safely back on shore.
The book is very easy to understand, and has many simple yet effective drawings, as well as vibrant colours. Children will love to read this again and again. And if they ever get bored of Colin and his adventures with his dog Rocky, then at the end of the story there are some activities for them to take part in. These activities include many basic skills for children to practice, such as counting, object recognition, and word recognition, all of which are useful to a developing child. The book uses lots of pictures and varying text sizes to make the book more enjoyable, and more child friendly.
For further information on the author, and further episodes to come, visit the website; www.colinthecoastguard.com , or if you would like Steve to visit your school, then you can contact him on book@kittiwakeproductions.com
Thanks to Cameron Blower for writing this Review |
| Eco-Kids Self-Sufficiency Handbook |
Alan Bridgewater, Gill Bridgewater
£9.99, New Holland Publishers Ltd
Brought to you by local authors Alan and Gill Bridgewater, Eco-Kids is all about getting kids away from TV and computer screens and getting them into doing creative things such as learning how to knit with needles, how to make their very own wind turbine or how to make a miniature weather station in their back garden.
This book will get them outside and put their creative juices to work. It also allows parents to spend quality time with their children, as all activities need to be supervised by an adult. The handbook includes clear, easy to read, step by step instructions and pictures, which help the child to get a better idea of the instructions. Throughout each activity there are health and safety tips and guidelines to keep the children safe whilst they enjoy themselves.
The book also includes details of websites related to protecting the environment, and an Eco-Glossary. This provides a large list of terms that may have been used in the book.
The Eco-Kids Self-Sufficiency Handbook was published at the beginning of July 2009 at a retail price £9.99. It’s available in all good bookshops, online and by mail order on 01476 541080.
Thank you to Dolly Anjorin and Cameron Blower for helping us write this review.
|
| Flying High |
Titania Woods.
£3.99, Bloomsbury Children's Books
The first ever Glitterwings story, now available for the first time in paperback! Glitterwings Academy is the fairy school to go to, and Twink is so excited to be starting her first term. But she is also a little nervous. Will she make friends? Will she be able to find her way round the dizzying, huge oak tree that is Glitterwings Academy? And will she be able to pass the all-important test for new students – that of learning to fly? Glitterwings Academy is a lovingly created series by acclaimed author Lee Weatherly, writing as Titania Woods. Readers of the series can be assured of accomplished narrative, as well as stylish and exciting illustration. |
| Children’s Book of art |
Dorling Kindersley
£14.99, Dorling Kindersley
Publication Date: 1st September 2009 Price: £14.99
An inspiring introduction to the world’s most amazing paintings and sculptures.
Take a journey around the globe to different countries, periods and styles, and let children discover the excitement of art in this beautiful and clear introduction to the world of art.
From the beginnings, when the first daubs of paint in prehistoric caves appeared, to the search today for new means of expression, the history of world art in Children’s Book of Art is exhibited before the reader’s eyes, very much like a visit to an art gallery or museum but from the comfort of an armchair.
The book examines works of art and talks about each piece in context, showing how art has meant different things at different times. Children will learn about the materials and techniques of art, discover why art was made, look at colour and paint, composition, light and atmosphere, storytelling, and many other themes.
What makes an artist great? Throughout, the Children’s Book of Art looks at the urge to be different, focusing on artists who have changed the way we see things. Today there has been much discussion of the need for education to go beyond the constraints of the curriculum and for children to be given the opportunity to be creative. This book is a lively guide to using eyes and imagination to journey into the mysterious and magical world of art. The book’s interactive approach allows children to get a lesson in art appreciation. There’s a close look at a selection of famous, ground-breaking works of art, explaining how they were made, why there were so ground-breaking, and how artists achieved particular effects. Kids are then encouraged to have a go at the different techniques themselves.
From Aboriginal to abstract art, from totem poles to the terracotta army, from Michelangelo to Matisse, this book gives you the complete picture of the world’s art, art history and artists up to the present day. |
| DANIEL X: WATCH THE SKIES |
James Patterson
£12.99, Random House Children’s Books
Meet Daniel X … Alien hunter. Fifteen-year-old Daniel X works alone. He is on a mission to finish the job that killed his parents – to wipe out the world’s most bloodthirsty aliens on The List. At the number one spot, The Prayer, is Daniel’s ultimate target. With mind-blowing skills like telepathy and the ability to transform and create, Daniel’s got more than a few tricks up his sleeve, but will they be enough to match the horror of The Prayer…?
A new series by James Patterson is always something to get excited about, and today sees the release of his second DANIEL X adventure. Packed with action, aliens and edge-of-your-seat drama this new series already has a strong following since it’s launch last year, picking up fans of Patterson’s Maximum Ride books as well as a legion of new younger readers.
Patterson is an internationally best-selling writer – in fact it’s fair to call him a publishing phenomenon: currently the most borrowed author from UK libraries for two years running, his sales worldwide stand at a staggering 130 million copies.
This Spring, James Patterson teamed up with The National Literacy Trust to launch a nationwide family reading campaign to get boys reading with their dads. The initiative met with an amazing response and saw James appear on The BBC’s One Show to talk about his passion for getting kids and their parents hooked on books. For more information or to view some of the fantastic photographic entries see www.literacytrust.org.uk/Campaign/Champions/ExtremeReadingChallengewinners.html
Patterson is renowned for the accessibility and wide appeal of his books – his Maximum Ride series, for example, has a huge fan base of grown-ups and teenagers who love the short chapters, punchy dialogue and non-stop action. Maximum Ride has a track record of luring adults who don’t class themselves as ‘readers’ in to books, and also appeals to younger reluctant readers, especially boys. Publishing in dual edition, DANIEL X builds on this cross-age fan base to deliver a new world of adventure for readers everywhere. |
| Dinosaur Cove 12: Assault of the Friendly Fiends |
Rex Stone
£4.99, Oxford
Jamie and Tom are off on another adventure in Dino World and with their little dinosaur friend, Wanna, they set off for Misty Mountains. They spot a group of turkey-sized dinosaurs on the mountainside - they look really cute. But when the dinos chase after a passing lizard the boys realize they're not so sweet after all. They're carnivores and they want Jamie and Tom for their next meal! As they race to get away the boys and Wanna climb further up the mountain but a sudden tremor stops them in their tracks. It's not a mountain at all - it's a volcano . . . and it's about to blow! |
| The Wild Man - A Joe Rat Adventure |
Mark Barratt
£5.99, Harper Collins
Having escaped the clutches of Mother in Poundsfield, Joe Rat is back, now working as a sweeper in the more upmarket Lomesbury Square. Having foiled a burglary at one of the 'posh' houses on the square, the owner, Mr Harvey - a rich philanthropist - determines to help Joe. Harvey manages to track down Joe's father, a British army deserter now living wild in Canada. Joe has never met his father, but Harvey brings the wild man back to England and helps set them both up in better jobs. However, Alec Harvey has other ideas - he's jealous of the kindness his father shows Joe and the relationship Joe seems to have with this exciting man from Canada. He determines to show his father once and for all that he's just as good, but in so doing risks the lives of those around him. |
| TV Time Travellers, The |
Pete Johnson
£4.99, Harper Collins
Zac and Izzy win a place on a new reality TV show, but they have no idea where they're going or what to expect ...They must live as if it's 1939, the start of World War Two. One by on they will be voted out by the viewing public. It's a hard life and, since each contestant is desperate to be the final winner, problems occur. When the live final arrives, the contestants and the audience will all be stunned by what occurs.
An exciting new story from award-winning author Pete Johnson for readers aged nine years and over. |
| Bare Bum Gang and The Holy Grail |
Anthony McGowan
£4.99, Harper Collins
Ludo, Noah, Jamie, Phillip and Jennifer are The Bare Bum Gang! They have an embarrassing name but a cool Gang Den, so things could be worse. Join the gang in a new adventure as they battle the forces of the evil Dockery Gang, guard with their lives the secrets of their underground sweet stash, and still get home in time for tea. Ludo and Noah go to the aid of an old tramp who has collapsed after being hassled by the Dockery gang. Everyone thinks he's a little bit crazy as he dresses in home made armour - his nickname is King Arthur. King Arthur asks Ludo to retrieve his 'treasure' and so the gang have to sneak past security guards and overcome various obstacles to help the old man. But can they get to the treasure before anyone else?
Another hilarious title in the series for seven years plus. |
| Bug Buddies: The Big Game |
Joe Miller
£3.99, Harper Collins
Even bugs can be heroes! Join the Bug Buddies on bug-tastic adventures, as they pit their wits against the dreaded spider Spinner, creepiest of all creepy crawlies! Spinner's Wood is full of sticky mud, tall trees and long grass. But most of all, it's full of bugs! Meet the Bug Buddies -- four best friends called Zap, Buzz, Lurch and Crunch. Their life would be perfect if it weren't for Spinner, who has eight legs and one mission: to trap the whole wood in his evil web. But even bugs can be heroes! It's the Beetle Ball final and the Bug Buddies face the mighty Centipede United. But who's lurking on the sidelines? Could it be Spinner?
New series for five years and over. Other titles include:
Enemy Attack!
Ant Invasion!
Tunnel Trouble! |
| Silver Dolphins 1: The Magic Charm |
Summer Waters
£4.99, Harper Collins
Exciting new magical adventure series for seven years and over - will you answer the call of the Silver Dolphins? Antonia is thrilled to win first prize in the Sea Watch poster competition -- a dolphin charm necklace. But when she is presented with it, she is mysteriously told to 'always answer the call'. Soon she discovers that her necklace has magical powers that draw her to the sea where she meets a pod of dolphins and learns she has been chosen for a very special role. But Antonia's new responsibilities not only conflict with her friendships; they also bring her into danger. Is she brave enough to face her fears? And can she be a Silver Dolphin without losing her best friend? |
| Iggy and Me |
Jenny Valentine
£5.99, Harper Collins
Iggy & Me is a My Naughty Little Sister for a modern audience, following the natics of the irrepressible Iggy as seen through the eyes of her older sister Flo.
Funny and endearing, each chapter is a satisfying story of family life, perfect for reading aloud at bedtime, or for newly-confident readers to enjoy alone.
Illustrated throughout with black-and-white line drawings by Joe Berger, who was nominated for the Booktrust Early Years Award for his first picture book Bridget Fidget. |
| Outlaw: The Legend of Robin Hood - A Graphic Novel |
Tony Lee & Sam Hart
£9.99, Walker Books
A stunning, full-colour, action-packed tale of the heroic legend for readers aged 10 years and over.
When Robin of Loxley gets news of his father’s death, he abandons the bloody Crusade in Jerusalem and rides back to Sherwood Forest. With the king away from England, the Sheriff of Nottingham rules the land with an iron fist. But in the haunted depths of the forest, Robin soon raises an army to challenge the evil Sheriff. Wearing a dark hood for disguise and with his unparalleled gift for the bow, Robin quickly becomes an outlaw – fighting the forces of evil for the good of the poor – with a hefty price on his head...
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| It's A Secret! |
John Burningham
£11.99, Walker Books
Join Marie Elaine on a thrilling rooftop journey that takes her to a most unusual party!
One night Marie Elaine finds her cat Malcolm dressed to go to a party. On condition she keep his secret, Malcolm agrees to let her come with him, and they set off through the streets – a dangerous journey, for Marie Elaine is now as small as her cat! At the party there are cats and more cats, and they are all very excited … the Queen of the Cats is on her way! It is a night that Marie Elaine will never forget – and she won’t forget to keep the secret either!
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| Poppy Love Steps Out |
Natasha May
£3.99, Walker Books
Samba, quickstep, tango and waltz - Poppy Love loves to dance them all!
Poppy Love loves to dance! She and her dance partner, Zack, study with Sarah Johnson at the Blue Horizon Dance School in Brighton and are about to enter the South East Juvenile Ballroom Dancing Competition. In this first book of the series they cha-cha-cha, jive, waltz, tango and quickstep, as well as dance the samba at the Southern Counties Festival of Dance. Four action-packed stories filled with dance, music, make-up and dresses - something for every young dancer!
Suitable for readers aged seven years and over. Other titles include:
Poppy Love Faces The Music
Poppy Love Rock 'n' Roll
Poppy Love Star Turn |
| Monday's Are Murder |
Tanya Landman
£4.99, Walker Books
First in a brand-new series of murder mysteries. Miss Marple for the younger reader - suitable for nine years plus.
When Poppy Fields goes on an activity holiday to a remote Scottish island, she is looking forward to a week of climbing, hill-walking and horse riding. But things take a bad turn when their instructor has what appears to be a fatal abseiling accident. When Poppy discovers that his rope was cut, and more of the instructors start to have "accidents", she and best friend Graham suspect foul play and decide to investigate.
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| Hank Zipzer 7: Help! Somebody Get Me Out of Fourth Grade! |
Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver
£4.99, Walker Books
Hank Zipzer wants to be number one, not the one who always gets it wrong. A likeable, struggling hero that readers will adore.
It's the end of the year parent-teacher conference and Hank Zipzer is in trouble, again. Worried that he will have to repeat fourth grade, he comes up with a plan – he will fix it so his parents are on holiday for the whole conference. Of course, being Hank, the plan backfires. Will he have to stay in fourth grade for ever?
Seventh in the hit series from Henry 'The Fonz' Winkler - for readers aged eight and over. |
| Toby and the Secrets of the Tree |
Timothee de Fombelle
£9.99, Walker Books
The second and final part of the thrilling adventure of heroism and friendship in an unforgettable miniature world.
Toby’s world is under greater threat than ever before. A giant crater has been dug right into the centre of the Tree, moss and lichen invade the branches, and one tyrant controls it all. Leo Blue, once Toby’s best friend, now his worst enemy, is holding Elisha prisoner, hunting the Grass People with merciless force, capturing all who stand in his way, inflicting a life of poverty and fear. But returning after several years among the Grass People, Toby will fight back. And this time he’s not alone. A resistance is forming…
This eagerly anticipated sequel to the award-winning Toby Alone is a gripping conclusion to a new classic adventure story for readers aged nine years and over.
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| Benny and Omar |
Eoin Colfer
£5.99, Puffin Books
n my old school, we had fighting, no pool and there'd be vicious matches against the other schools . . . I miss all that stuff!
Moving to Africa is the worst thing that has ever happened to Benny Shaw. No one plays hurling (the best game on the planet) and the local school is run by hippies who like to talk about feelings. As if.
But when Benny meets wisecracking Omar (the name's Bond, James Bond Omar) who only speaks English in TV catchphrases, he decides that maybe life in this new country can be fun after all.
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| Percy Jackson and the Last Olympian |
Rick Riordan
£12.99, Puffin Books
The greatest monster of all, the storm giant Typhon, is on the loose, wreaking havoc and destruction across the U.S. - while Kronos's army lays siege to Manhattan. Soon Percy Jackson must make the hardest choice of his life - a choice that will save or destroy the world.
Can Percy stop the rampage of the Titans, to save Olympus - and himself? Clever mixture of myth and modern tales for 12 years and over. |
| Faerie Heart |
Livi Michael
£6.99, Puffin Books
'If you light a fire on Mabb's hill, she will come for you…'
All Keri has ever wanted is to be part of the Magic. Now her brother Lu is dying. To save him she must bargain with the dangerous Faerie Queen Mabb, who exacts a terrible price.
Will the Magic help Keri to save her brother - and herself?
By the author of The Whispering Road, winner of the Bronze Nestle Children's Book Prize.
Suitable for eight to 12 year olds. |
| Magic Puppy - Spellbound at School |
Sue Bentley
£4.99, Puffin Books
Never in Lola's wildest dreams had she imagined having a magic puppy for a friend!
So when Storm, a fluffy black and white shih-tzu puppy, suddenly appears, Lola's lonely school days come into a whole magical class of their own!
Suitable for five to eight year olds.
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| Young Bond: By Royal Command |
Charlie Higson
£6.99, Puffin Books
Following a treacherous rescue mission high in the freezing Alps, James Bond is preparing for life back at Eton. But James is under surveillance; his every move is being watched. He alone holds the clue to a sinister plot that will bring bloodshed and carnage to his school - and his country.
Life for James Bond will never be the same again.
Suitable for eight to 12 year olds.
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| Story of Cirrus Flux, The |
Matthew Skelton
£6.99, Puffin Books
'You shall help me find him still . . . there is nowhere for the boy to hide.'
Orphan boy Cirrus Flux is being watched. Merciless rogues are conniving to steal the world's most divine power, which they believe Cirrus has inherited.
Now he faces a perilous journey through the dirty backstreets of London as a sinister mesmerist, a tiny man with an all-seeing eye, and a skull-collecting scoundrel pursue him. Cirrus must escape them. It really is not safe to give such evil people such incredible power . . .
Suitable for eight to 12 years. |
| Love, Aubrey |
Suzanne LaFleur
£9.99, Puffin Books
Something terrible has happened. Eleven-year-old Aubrey is on her own.
'It was fun at first, playing house. Nothing to think about but T.V and cheese. A perfect world.'
She's determined to hide away and take care of herself, because facing the truth is too much to bear.
'I couldn't let anyoneknow that I was alone. I was staying right here.'
But with the love of her grandmother and the letters she writes, can Aubrey begin to see that even though she's lost everything - all is not lost?
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| The Littlest Dinosaur's Big Adventure |
Michael Foreman
£5.99, Bloomsbury
The littlest dinosaur gets lost one day when he goes out on his own. While at first it is all a lot of fun, soon he starts to get concerned, particularly when he starts to hear some crying from behind a tree! When he finds out who is crying, the littlest dinosaur has to be much braver than he thought he could be. |
| Charie & Lola: I really wonder what plant I'm growing |
Lauren Child
£6.99, Puffin
Lola plants a seed and hopes that it will sprout into something amazing - like a cookie plant! As Charlie and Lola wait for the mysterious seed to grow, big brother Charlie teaches Lola how to care for her seed. Based on an episode, this perfect "take-along" book has it all! There's a handle made just for little hands, a simple story, a puzzle, and even a coloring page behind the puzzle pieces!
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| Animal Farm |
George Orwell
£7.99, Penguin
Mr Jones of Manor Farm is so lazy and drunken that one day he forgets to feed his livestock. The ensuing rebellion under the leadership of the pigs Napoleon and Wellington leads to the animals taking over the farm. Vowing to eliminate the terrible inequities of the farmyard, the renamed Animal Farm is organised to benefit all who walk on four legs. But as time passes, the ideals of the rebellion are corrupted, then forgotten, and something new and unexpected emerges.
Animal Farm, the history of a revolution that went wrong is George Orwell's brilliant satire on the corrupting influence of power. New edition from Penguin.
Suitable for eight years to adult.
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| Elephant |
Petr Horacek
£9.99, Walker Books
A young boy spends his day playing games with his imaginary friend, Elephant. Real or not, when Grandma and Grandpa are busy, Elephant proves to be the perfect playmate! Illustrated with Petr Horacek's distinctive and beautiful style.
Imaginative young minds will love this bold, contemporary picture book about a boy and his rather unusual best friend. |
| Milo Armadillo |
Jan Fearnley
£10.99, Walker Books
All Tallulah wants for her birthday is a pink fluffy rabbit, but Gran knits her something very different: a pink, fluffy armadillo!
An enchanting picture book about learning to love things for what they are - for children aged two years and over.
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| Where's Tumpty? |
Polly Dunbar
£9.99, Walker Books
Tumpty is trying his hardest to hide ... will he ever succeed?
“I’m hiding,” said Tumpty. “You can’t see me!” But everyone can see Tumpty, upside down under a large cardboard box, behind a pot plant. It’s very funny. But later when they really can't find Tumpty – not in the cupboard or behind the curtain or in the biscuit tin – suddenly it isn’t funny at all…
A Tilly and Friends book for readers aged two years and over.
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| Pretty Pru |
Polly Dunbar
£9.99, Walker Books
A handbag thief is on the prowl ... and Pru's the victim! But who could have taken it? Surely not her friends?
Someone has taken Pru’s handbag. The green handbag with red spots, with blusher and nail varnish inside. Where is it? And who took it? No one is prepared to own up – but it can’t remain a secret for long when her friends are wearing the evidence!
A Tilly and Friends book for readers aged two years and over. |
| Seymour and Henry |
Kim Lewis
£10.99, Walker Books
A delightful tale of a ducks at play from the creator of Goodnight, Harry.
The ducklings, Seymour and Henry, don’t want to stop playing at the end of the day. It’s far more fun to run away and hide. But they wait and they wait, and still Mummy doesn’t come. Then, plip plop, the rain starts to fall, and hiding doesn’t seem nearly as much fun. So back run Seymour and Henry, as fast as they can, to Mummy, who is waiting to take them home to bed…
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| Little Chick |
Amy Hest
£10.99, Walker Books
Spend a wonderful day with Little Chick in these three enchanting stories from master storyteller Amy Hest and award-winning illustrator Anita Jeram.
How Little Chick longs for her carrot to grow tall, for her kite to fly high, to be able to reach up and take her star from the sky. But her carrot is small, her kite bobs along on the ground and she can't stretch up far enough to touch her star. Sometimes things just don't turn out quite the way you want them to. But, as Old-Auntie shows Little Chick, there is just as much wonder in things that are small and far away – if you only look!
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| Damsel |
Susan E. Connolly
€8.99, Mercier Press
The dragon roared and the clearing filled with shining whiteness. The flames burned with the pure deadly brightness that can only come from dragon fire. Annie closed her eyes but the scene imprinted on her vision; The knight tall and proud with his sword raised high and the dragon on her haunches, wings spread wide above them. When she opened her eyes all that was left of him was red hot armor glowing on the ground and a skittish grey mare neighing in panic. Can a damsel ever be the one to do the rescuing? Annie Brave thinks so. Her father, one of the most famous heroes of them all, is missing, presumed eaten. With no heroes available to rescue him from the clutches of the evil wizard, Greenlott, Annie takes his book "How to Slay Dragons - and Other Advice for the Hero in Training" and sets off on a rescue mission.Teaming up with Roger of Rockfield, an honorable liar, she embarks on a series of adventures which are far from traditional. Whether these adventures involve Annie saving Roger from giant spiders or Annie and Roger dealing with the amorous advances of a prince frog (not to be confused with a frog prince) every incident leads them further on a voyage of self-discovery they never intended to make.
The newest must-read children's book by Ireland's freshest children's author for eight to 12 year olds. |
| Monkey Lou and The Storm Baby |
Gil Johnson
£5.35, Matador
The launch of 'Monkey Lou and The Storm Baby' sees the return of the loveable superhero in a tale of courage and teamwork which highlights the dangers of deforestation and the consequences for endangered species in the wild.
Children will be enthralled by the chilling threat to the little Storm Baby and cheered by his daring rescue. But the story does not end there. Why has the Storm Baby undertaken such a dangerous journey? Who is following him through the jungle? These questions and more are answered when our cheeky little hero, Monkey Lou, arrives bringing excitement, fun and a whole heap of bravery to this hair raising adventure. Underlying all the Monkey Lou adventures are the environmental issues which are all around us. The stories help children to understand and care about these issues in a fun and exciting context.
The books have been vibrantly illustrated by Vicky Fieldhouse to explore both beautiful views of the African plains and well perceived characterisations of the key animals in the story. The careful combination of text and illustration is designed to promote specific aspects of early literacy development, as well as essential speaking and listening skills in 4-8 year olds.
‘Monkey Lou and The Storm Baby’ is priced at £5.99 and is available online at www.monkeylou.co.uk, direct from the publisher at www.troubador.co.uk or from Waterstone’s stores and other leading bookshops. Visit Monkey Lou on his website and you can download the colouring-in page, view Monkey Lou’s Interesting Facts Page, check for upcoming events or order the books, t-shirts or poster. |
| Amazing adventures of Starr. Book 1 |
Jacky rom
£6.99, Jax Publishing UK
Starr Fox is 11 yrs old and. along with her headstrong backstage mother, she enters the fascinating world of entertainment. When things don't go quite to plan, Starr is swept along on a mysterious journey, full of intrigue and suspense.
From the audition to the red carpet, this is set to be the most exciting aventure of her life.
Join her as she becomes our very own, youngest ever, Secret Super Sleuth. |
| Flyboy of Underwhere |
Bruce Hale
£, Harper Collins
Here's the thing: Zeke's busy being the so-called Prince of Underwhere. His prissy sister, Stephanie, is some sort of pirate queen. But Hector? Everyone treats him like a joker and a sidekick. Well, those days are over. Now only Hector can save the day—if he can survive the swarms of sharp-beaked midget flying dinos, smart-aleck flying horses, angry armies in their undies, a really, really bad hypnotist, and a duel with deadly toilet plungers. . . all the ordinary wedgie weirdness of the tighty-whitie world under our own.
Suitable for eight to 12 year olds. |
| Raising Dragons |
Bryan Davis
£8.99, Candle Books
Contemporary fantasy series for young adults aged 11 years and over, delivering action, danger and inspiration through the adventures of teenagers Billy Bannister and Bonnie Silver. An epic adventures in a world of dragons, knights and fair maidens, as Billy and Bonnie learn about their dragon past, drawing strength from their friendship and discovering the power they carry within.
Other titles in the Dragons in our Midst series:
The Candlestone
Circles of Seven
Tears of a Dragon |
| Judy Moody Goes to College |
Megan McDonald
£4.99, Walker Books
Judy Moody doesn't want a private maths tutor, until a cool college student changes her mind - and her attitude. Crucial!
Judy Moody was in a mood. Not a good mood. And definitely NOT a maths mood. The substitute teacher thinks Judy’s maths skills need improving (not to mention her attitude!). So Judy has to see a private tutor. Does this mean flash cards? Does this mean baby games? Does this mean school on Saturday? But when Judy meets her tutor – a crucial college student with an uber-funky sense of style – and gets a glimpse of college life, Judy’s bad math-i-tude turns into a radical glad-i-tude. Pretty soon, Judy’s not only acing her maths class, she’s owning it. Say goodbye to Judy Moody, old skool third-grader, and say hello to Ms College.
For readers aged seven years plus. To find out about this and other Judy Moody titles, visit www.judymoody.co.uk |
| Wind in the Willows, The |
Kenneth Grahame
£9.99, Walker Books
Kenneth Grahame's classic children's story tells the adventures of the amiable Mole, the dapper Water Rat and the marvellous Badger as they endeavour to keep the wayward Toad out of trouble. Sensitively abridged and beautifully illustrated with great charm and detail by Inga Moore.
Walker Illustrated Classics is a new series which brings together some of the best-loved stories ever told, illustrated by some of today's finest artists. These exquisitely designed books, with their magnificent words and glorious pictures, are a pleasure to read – and re-read. The classics have never looked so good! Other titles include:
Classic Poetry
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
The Secret Garden |
| Irish Folk Tales |
Gill & Macmillan
€12.99, Gill & Macmillan
A book of 6 magical tales of leprechauns and Irish fairy folk told in a lively and engaging manner:
- Lazy Annie and her Magical Aunts
- Paddy and the Phouka
- Soul Cages
- The Doctor and the Fairy Princess
- Paying the Rent
- Seeing is Believing
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| Coraline – Film Tie-In Edition |
Neil Gaiman
£6.99, Bloomsbury Publishing
Tie-in edition of the animated feature directed by Henry Selick, director of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, with a cast including Teri Hatcher, Ian McShane, Dawn French, Jennifer Saunders and Dakota Fanning
When a young girl ventures through a hidden door, she finds another life with shocking similarities to her own.
Coraline has moved to a new house with her parents and she is fascinated by the fact that their ‘house’ is in fact only half a house! Divided into flats years before, there is a brick wall behind a door where once there was a corridor. One day it is a corridor again and the intrepid Coraline wanders down it. And so a nightmare-ish mystery begins that takes Coraline into the arms of counterfeit parents and a life that isn’t quite right.
Can Coraline get out? Can she find her real parents? Will life ever be the same again?
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| Zac Zoltan's Mad Monster Agency: Return of the Chocolate Vampires |
Knife & Packer
£4.99, Bloomsbury Publishing
Captain Underpants meets Batman and Robin!
Schoolboys Josh and Spencer must save the world from disgusting monsters and scary slimy things everywhere in their most fantastic alter egos of Zac Zoltan and Dr Brains
Josh Flunk and Spencer Topps are just two normal schoolboys until the ivory skull on the old walking stick in Josh’s bedroom flashes. Using a secret trapdoor under Josh’s bed, they pass through the ancient Egyptian sarcophagus discovered by Josh's Great-great-great-Grandfather to become their alter egos, Zac Zoltan and his assistant Dr Brains, Masters of Zac Zotlan's Detective Agency – ready to save the world from marauding monsters.
Book 1: Return of the Chocoholic Vampires: between the Stone Age and the Iron Age was the Chocolate Age, an age which came to an abrupt and mysterious end. When the remains of an ancient chocolate settlement are discovered, a precious chocolate amulet is unearthed and with it come the evil CHOCOLATE VAMPIRES.
Book 2: Night of the Living Bed: more gruesome adventures to follow in July. |
| Kreeps 1: Meet the Kreeps |
Kiki Thorpe
£4.99, Scholastic
A weird new family has moved into the deserted old mansion on Polly's street, and she doesn't like it one bit. But no one else seems to notice just how strange Veronica Kreep and her kids are. Even worse, Polly's dad is starting to fall under Veronica's spell! Can Polly save her family from those freaky Kreeps?
Also available in the Kreeps series:
KREEPS 2: THE NEW STEP-MUMMY
Polly can't believe that her dad is marrying Veronica Kreep! She's convinced that Veronica is a witch, but no one will listen to her. When she meets the Kreeps' even weirder relatives, she knows she has to act fast. Can Polly stop the wedding before she gets stuck with the Kreeps for ever? |
| Dragon Tamer's Castle, The |
Ben Cort
£18.99, Scholastic
When a little orphan boy named Sprout stumbles upon an enormous dragon's egg, his incredible adventure has only just begun... Create your own dragon tamer's castle with the first title in the amazing Build-a-Story range. Complete with twelve castle pieces with red foam edges, fourteen stand-up characters, a storybook and a fold-out play board, this brilliant set has enormous play value. |
| Madeleine: 70th Anniversary Edition |
Ludwig Bemelmans
£7.99, Scholastic
'In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines...' Something is not right with little Madeline. Her friends are sad when she goes to hospital to have her appendix removed. But they cheer up when see her impressive scar! The small but feisty heroine, Madeline, and her charming Parisian world have been loved by children and adults alike for seventy years.
Other titles in the Madeleine series:
Madeleine and the Bad Hat
Madeleine and the Gypsies
Madeleine in London
Madeleine's Rescue
Madeleine's Christmas |
| Treasure Fever! |
Andy Griffiths
£4.99, Scholastic
When a new teacher arrives in Henry McThrottle's classroom, spelling tests and maths books go out of the window - literally! For the first time ever, Henry and his friends actually look forward to the end of breaktime. Lessons include How to Skid on a Banana Skin, How to Hang Out of a Window, and How to Conduct an Archaeological Dig. Amidst all the excitement, Henry discovers a map that could lead his class to hidden treasure! What's more, it's buried in the school grounds. Suddenly, a race to find the booty begins... |
| Twinkle Twinkle Chocolate Bar |
John Foster
£9.99, Oxford
'Twinkle twinkle chocolate bar
Your dad drives a rusty car
Press the starter
Pull the choke
Off he goes in a cloud of smoke.' Anon
Here is a collection of poems and rhymes for very young children. With themes ranging from pets, magic and weather to favourite foods, families and toys, there are poems for every occasion. And the mix of cautionary verse, nonsense rhymes, lullabies, lyrical poems and comic verse adds up to an anthology to suit all moods and moments. There are contributions from Michael Rosen, Wendy Cope, Charles Causley, Valerie Bloom, Brian Moses, Spike Milligan, Jack Prelutsky and many, many more. Each poem is accompanied by full colour artwork - from a diverse range of illustrators including Tony Ross, Nick Sharratt, Ian Beck, Brian Wildsmith and Korky Paul.
A delectable assortment of light, melt-in-the-mouth poems for the very young to dip into again and again - the poetic equivalent of good mood food!
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| The World's Best Karlson |
Astrid Lindgren
£4.99, Oxford
Fun-filled stories starring an ordinary boy called Smidge and the extraordinary Karlson, the flying man who lives on the roof!
Smidge is used to Karlson, the funny little man with a propeller on his back, living on the roof. They are firm friends. Now, anytime Karlson pops in, Smidge knows that there's fun and adventure in store. In this collection of stories, they flood the bathroom, celebrate Karlson's birthday, and prompt a newspaper to offer a reward when Karlson is mistaken for a spy!
Suitable for boys and girls of seven to nine years. Fans of Astrid Lindgren's Pippi Longstocking books, of the 'Horrid Henry' and Judy Moody' series |
| Dinosaur Cove 9: Tracking the Gigantic Beast |
Rex Stone
£4.99, Oxford
Jamie and Tom are back in Jurassic dinosaur world doing a spot of prehistoric bird watching. Suddenly a large face appears among the treetops - it's a huge diplodocus! The boys enjoy watching the enormous beast chewing on the branches, but when a big twig gets lodged in its mouth, the diplodocus starts going crazy. Jamie and Tom must find their way across the treetops, swinging on vines, in order to catch up with the dinosaur and try to help him. |
| Dinosaur Cove 10: Escape from the Fierce Predator |
Rex Stone
£5.99, Oxford
When Jamie and Tom spot the fierce Allosaurus in their secret dino world, they decide to observe it from a distance. But when the dinosaur spots them, the chase is on. The boys and Wanna run for their lives and find a secret cave to hide in, but the Allosaurus soon sniffs them out. What can they use to mask their scent and escape from the fierce predator once and for all? |
| A Small Surprise |
Louise Yates
£10.99, Jonathan Cape
Roll up! Roll up! Discover the most marvellous collection of colossal creatures known to man: among them the Beastly Bear, the Gargantuan Gorilla … and the smallest new addition to their troupe!
Meet the courageous Rabbit, who is - admittedly - rather small, but isn't prepared to let this hold him back...
Prepare to be captivated by this magical character and his somewhat larger circus friends. |
| Winnie's Flying Carpet |
Valerie Thomas and Korky Paul
£10.99, Oxford
Winnie's sisters have given her a flying carpet but Winnie is struggling to find something nice to say about it in her thank-you letter as the carpet has been more than a little wayward. Winnie decides to give the carpet one last chance but then disaster strikes. The carpet swoops off with poor Wilbur as its unwilling passenger. Winnie tries to catch it but the carpet is too fast for her and it heads straight for a funfair where it subjects Wilbur to a string of crazy rides. Winnie has to resort to magic to stop the carpet in its tracks and rescue her beloved moggy. Then she takes Wilbur home and, ever the resourceful witch, she has an idea for a wonderful way to enjoy the carpet in the safety of her own garden.
Suitable for three to seven year olds. |
| Ferocious Wild Beasts! |
Chris Wormell
£10.99, Jonathan Cape
Jack is lost in the forest - a forest that his mum has told him is full of ferocious wild beasts! But the creatures that Jack meets there: a bear, a lion, an elephant, a crocodile, a wolf and a python, all seem perfectly friendly to him, even if they are a bit worried about these ferocious wild beasts he's been telling them about ...
But then they hear a terrible roar...
Who or what can it be?
Comic picture book for five to seven year olds from teh author of George and the Dragon. |
| Sebastian Darke: Prince of Explorers |
Philip Caveney
£9.99, Random House
Sebastian, Max and Cornelius are off on their most hazardous adventure yet. Deep in the dense jungles of the south they are searching for the legendary lost city of Mendip when their quest is rudely interrupted by a savage attack by a band of Gograth – armoured apelike beasts.
Rescued by jungle girl Keera, they are taken to the village of the Jilith, a primitive tribe of warriors, who are themselves locked in a grim struggle for survival with the Gograth. Sebastian's arrival has been foretold in an ancient prophesy which states that the elf-Lord and his two companions will rid the Jilith of the curse of the Gograth forever. And if Sebastian, Max and Cornelius can achieve this Keera herself will guide them to the Lost City.
But first our heroic trio must brave savage battles, hazardous journeys, attacks by fierce beasts and some of the worst jokes in history. And what's more when they finally reach their destination, they have to contend with The Night Runners - the most terrifying foe they have ever encountered; a foe that simply cannot be killed . . . because they are already dead.
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| Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules |
Jeff Kinney
£5.99, Puffin Books
It's a brand-new year and a brand-new journal and Greg is keen to put the humiliating (and secret!) events of last summer firmly behind him. But someone knows everything - someone whose job it is to most definitely not keep anything embarrassing of Greg's private - his big brother, Rodrick. How can Greg make it through this new school year with his cool(ish) reputation intact?
Second in the Wimpy Kid series for seven to 12 year olds, with another hilarious mix of text and comic book style presentation, perfect for those reluctant readers... Fans of the first book won't be disappointed!! |
| Dot Robot |
Jason Bradbury
£5.99, Puffin Books
‘Congratulations, Jackson. Welcome to MeX.’ Dot.com billionaire Devlin Lear, founder of the top-secret defence force MeX, has been watching Jackson Farley. He knows he has found a digital genius. Along with three other brilliant gamers from different corners of the world, Lear needs Jackson to join him and stop the criminal heist of the century. And all by the power of the most highly advanced, state-of-the-art robots ever invented. Are Jackson and the MeX recruits as good as Lear thinks? And how does Jackson know quite who to trust when they can never meet face-to-face?
For readers aged 11 years and over, from the presenter of TV's 'Gross' and 'The Gadget Show'. |
| Spy Dog: Rocket Rider |
Andrew Cope
£4.99, Puffin Books
Lara may have retired from the secret service but she can still sniff out danger . . . On the trail of her long-lost dad, Lara discovers a team of rocket-building scientists – evil ones. Their leader is a nasty criminal who wants to cause trouble in space and only Lara can stop him!
Cracking spy stuff for readers aged seven and over.
Other titles in the Spy Dog series include:
Spy Dog: Unleashed
Spy Dog: Superbrain
Spy Dog: 1
Spy Dog: 2 |
| Goal! 3 |
Robert Rigby
£5.99, Corgi Childrens
Santiago Munez is back in England and playing in the Premiership once again. He's also been selected for the 2010 World Cup and is playing on the form of his life. But things in his personal life are more complicated - his troublesome brother has moved from Spain to England to learn to play football like his brother, his wife Ros has a new job, and they have a three-year-old daughter to take care of.
When disaster strikes during an international warm-up match and Santi is injured, it looks like his dream of playing in the greatest competition of them all is over. Can he proove himself physically and mentally match-fit in time for the finals . . . ?
Sporting stories for readers aged 12 years and over. |
| Buried Alive! |
Jacqueline Wilson
£5.99, Yearling
Tim’s quiet holiday in Wales, with his parents and his best friend Biscuits, unexpectedly becomes truly terribly adventurous. An encounter with two local bully-boys threatens to disrupt Tim and Biscuits’s fun but their friendship is also threatened by the arrival of Tim’s ebullient friend, Kelly. Tim tells the story in snappy prose punctuated with revealing, illustrated extracts from his and Biscuits’s holiday diaries.
Fictional book dealing with family issues for nine to 11 year olds. |
| Glubbslyme |
Jacqueline Wilson
£5.99, Yearling
'Glubbslyme. You're magic!'
When Rebecca wades into the witch's pond after a row with her best friend Sarah, she meets a very unusual new friend - a huge, warty toad! And Glubbslyme is no ordinary toad. Hundreds of years old, he can talk and - best of all - he can work magic. Maybe, just maybe, he can help Rebecca be best friends with Sarah again…?
Suitable for nine to 11 year olds. |
| Follow That String |
Deborah Brown and Kathy Bacovitch
£6.99, Red Fox
Follow the adventures of Ning and Keppy!
Ning is a boy and Keppy is his teddy and together their wild imaginations take them on wonderful adventures throughout the house.
One day, as they are sitting together day dreaming, a post card with the words 'Follow that string' on it lands on the mat. Baffled but intrigued Ning and Keppy set off on the trail of the seemingly endless piece of string. Join them on their surreal journey and find out what happens at the end of that string - if indeed there is an end!
A story about the power of the imagination and the wonder of books! |
| Alfie and the Big Boys |
Shirley Hughes
£5.99, Red Fox
Alfie's Nursery School is right next door to the Big School. Alfie wishes that he could be friends with the most popular big boy, Ian Barger, but Ian never takes any notice of the little kids.
One morning, Mum takes Alfie to a Plant Pot Sale. Alfie hasn't been there long when he spots Ian Barger screaming and yelling, 'I want my mummy!'. Ian grabs Alfie's hand and holds onto him very tightly until his mum returns. Alfie realizes that big boys don't always act so big after all! |
| Rosie's Walk |
Pat Hutchins
£5.99, Red Fox
Rosie's walk around the farmyard, pursued by the hungry but clumsy fox, has become a beacon in the world of children's picture books, an ever-popular classic which generations have enjoyed. Children love the humour of this near-wordless story. One disaster after another befalls the poor fox while Rosie goes on her way, supremely unaware of the danger behind her.
Now at a wonderful larger size, this re-issue wil bring the joy of Rosie's tale and Pat's bold artwork to a new generation of fans. |
| Dougal the Digger |
Benedict Blathwayt
£5.99, Red Fox
Oh no! There’s trouble amongst the rubble when, Patch, the foreman’s dog goes missing! But luckily, Dougal is there to save the day . . .
Readers will love lifting the flaps to help find Patch but there's only one digger brave enough for the job, and that's Dougal! With bold and bright illustrations and a hidden bunny for little ones to spot on every page, this is guaranteed to be a much-loved story that will be read again and again.
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| Have You Ever Seen A Sneep? |
Tasha Pym
£10.99, Doubleday Childrens
Have you ever set out a picnic
in a truly splendid spot,
turned your back for just one second . . .
. . . to find a Sneep has pinched the lot?
Oscar is looking forward to the perfect day out. He’ll have a picnic, read his book and build a den. But things don’t go entirely according to plan . . . Mischievous creatures keep sneaking up on him and spoiling his fun! A Sneep pinches his lunch, a Grullock almost swallows him whole and a Loon chases him all the way home! After a series of nasty surprises and narrow escapes, poor Oscar is exhausted. What he needs, is a place that’s creature-free . . .
Wonderfully whimsical picture book for five to seven year olds. |
| Princess Poppy: Pony Club Princess |
Janey Louise Jones
£3.99, Young Corgi
Poppy is taking part in a Pony Club Competition with her cousin Daisy.
They’ve both been practising like mad on their ponies
Twinkletoes and Parsley and they absolutely can’t wait.
But before long a whole series of things start to go wrong
and it looks like they might not be able to compete after all . . .
Will the Pony Club let Poppy enter the competition?
Will Twinkletoes be well enough to jump and most importantly,
will Poppy ever get to be a Pony Princess?
Find out in this brilliant new adventure for five to seven year olds. |
| Bare Bum Gang and the Valley of Doom |
Anthony McGowan
£4.99, Red Fox
Ludo, Noah, Jamie, Phillip and Jennifer are THE BARE BUM GANG! They have an embarrassing name but a cool Gang Den, so things could be worse.
Ludo leads the Bare Bum Gang on a raid through the Valley of Doom, deep in enemy territory. But as they are approaching their target, the BBG are ambushed by the Dockery gang. It looks like they are about to be annihilated (or pelted with mud really hard), but then they are rescued by a strange boy called Alfie. When they get back to their den, they find that their sweet stash has been plundered. The wrappers turn up in Ludo’s binocular case. Added to the military fiasco in the Valley of Doom, the sweet theft is the final straw. Can Ludo keep his position as leader of the Bare Bum Gang? Or will he have to resort to desperate measures?
More super school stories for seven to nine year olds. |
| Secret Agent Jack Stalwart: The Fight for the Frozen Land: Arctic |
Elizabeth Singer Hunt
£3.99, Red Fox
A group of scientists have gone missing in the Arctic - could this be linked to their research into global warming? Jack must face the harsh weather and a very hungry polar bear to find out...
Cracking adventure series for five to seven year old boys, with geography and environment themes - for more, log onto www.jackstalwart.com
Other titles in the Jack Stalwart series include:
Jack Stalwart: The Deadly Race to Space - Russia
Jack Stalwart: The Quest for Aztec Gold - Mexico
Jack Stalwart: The Theft of the Samurai Sword - Japan
Jack Stalwart: The Pursuit of the Ivory Poachers: Kenya |
| Astrosaurs Academy: Jungle Horror! |
Steve Cole
£4.99, Kids at Random House
Teggs and the gang are shocked when all the teachers at Astrosaurs Academy disappear suddenly. Apparently they're on an emergency conference in a safari park and have left the fiercesome Commodore Kallos and her team in charge. Lessons with them are really odd - the new teachers are super-strict and the cadets are being taught different facts to the ones they've learned before. The Daring Dinos are suspicious so they decide to sneak off to the safari park, find Colonel Gruff and the rest of the staff and discover the truth behind their disappearance.
Suitable for seven to nine year olds. |
| Cat Mummy, The |
Jacqueline Wilson
£4.99, Kids at Random House
Verity adores her cat, Mabel, and is desperately sad when she dies. Remembering her recent school lessons about the Ancient Egyptians, Verity decides to mummify Mabel and keep her hidden. Verity's dad and grandparents can't bear to talk about death, having lost Verity's mum in childbirth, but when they eventually discover what Verity has done with Mabel, the whole family learns that it's time to talk.
A superb handling of bereavement in Wilson's uniquely accessible and enjoyable style, for readers of 7+. |
| Jumpy Jack & Googily |
Meg Rosoff & Sophie Blackall
£5.99, Puffin Books
Meet Jumpy Jack, a very nervous snail who is afraid of monsters, and Googily who is a very good friend indeed. Wherever they go, Googily kindly checks high and low just to make sure there are no scary monsters about. But, as every child knows, monsters come in many shapes and sizes. Some are even blue with hairy eyebrows and pointy teeth. Suitable for three to six year olds. |
| Bottoms Up! |
Jeanne Willis & Adam Stower
£5.99, Puffin Books
So funny that it will have children wetting their pants (IF they're wearing anyway!), Bottoms Up! is a book guaranteed to cause giggles. Our toddler hero is not happy and wants to protest - if animals don't wear pants, then why should we?! After all . . .Do piglets wear panties? Or puppies or bears? Do fox cubs wear boxers? No, nobody cares! Packed with hilarious animal characters and rollicking, rumbustious rhyme, this is another hit from award-winning author Jeanne Willis. |
| Very Hungry Caterpillar, The - Pop-Up Book |
Eric Carle
£14.99, Puffin Books
In this brand new pop-up edition of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, fans will experience the classic story in a completely new and interactive way as the intrepid caterpillar literally pops off the page, crawling along branches, munching through food and, finally, turning into an extraordinary butterfly. The classic story is told across seven beautifully engineered pop-up spreads with tabs to pull, dials to turn and flaps to lift. This new version will be treasured by bookworms of all ages, but is especially suitable for two to five year olds.
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| Chick |
Ed Vere
£7.99, Puffin Books
t's time for Chick to meet the world! Join in the fun as he emerges from his egg and meets his mummy. Follow him through his very first day - right up until he snuggles down under his mum's wing at bedtime. In a clever parallel to the daily routine and anxieties of a toddler, this funny and delightful novelty combines Ed's signature bold colours, lovable characters and graphic simplicity. Seven kinetic pop-ups move from the spine of the book as the pages are turned making this clever novelty strong and sturdy for the very young. |
| Ginger Snaps |
Cathy Cassidy
£5.99, Puffin Books
Gone are the days when Ginger was an outsider, always on the fringes of friendship. She’s swapped puppy fat and pigtails for make-up and hair straighteners and never looked back – until now. Ginger and Shannon are best mates, but when they befriend lonely Emily, everything changes. Even the saxophone-playing boy in the trilby hat can’t help – he's part of the problem . . . Are Ginger and Shannon drifting apart or can they stay best friends for ever? A gorgeously tender-hearted story about secrets, friends and fitting in from the new queen of tween, Cathy Cassidy. For readers aged nine years and over.
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| Skulduggery Pleasant: The Faceless Ones |
Derek Landy
£10.99, Harper Collins
If you’ve read the previous Skulduggery books then you know what the Faceless Ones are – and if you know what the Faceless Ones are, then you can probably take a wild guess that things in this book are going to get AWFULLY sticky for our skeletal hero and his young sidekick. If you haven’t read the previous Skulduggery books then what are you doing reading this? Go and read them right now, so that you know what all that stuff in the previous paragraph was about. Done? Good. So now you’re on tenterhooks too, desperately awaiting the answers to all your questions, and instead you’re going to have to wait till April to get hold of the book. Sorry about that...
Third bone-breaking, belly-busting adventure in the series that puts the “funny” back in... um... funny series. Hardback version released April 2009 - for more, visit www.skulduggerypleasant.co.uk |
| Demon from the Deep End |
James Allison
€6.99, O'Brien
When Liam Brodie, his sister Sophie and horror-movie fan Evan are offered a free trip to Spain they jump at
the chance. They’re not expecting to star in their own real-life horror story . . .
From the moment they arrive there’s something amiss – the weird hotel manager, the zombie-like guests and
the insects everywhere – not what they expected from a sun holiday! And when the boys discover the Blobster
– a monster made of slime and sludge that oozes from the pool to devour guests, things really start to get
creepy…
For readers aged eight years and over. |
| See If I Care |
Judi Curtin & Roisin Meaney
€7.95, O'Brien
STYLISH NEW REPRINT FOR THIS BEST-SELLING TITLE, PREVIOUSLY A PART OF THE JOURNALS SERIES.
Two schools, one in Ireland and one in England, have decided to set up a pen-pal programme between their
pupils. Luke is hoping to get an English boy to write to, but instead he gets stuck with Elma, who would prefer
an Irish girl as her penpal. Reluctantly, the two begin their correspondence.
Life is not going well for either Luke or Elma, and the two invent new, more glamorous lives for themselves in
their letters, little realising how similar their real lives actually are.
Judi Curtin grew up in Cork and now lives in Limerick where she is married with three children. A
former teacher, she has penned all six best-selling ‘Alice & Megan’ books. Roisin Meaney is a
primary teacher from Kerry, currently living in Limerick. Roisin has already written Don’t Even Think
About It, in the JOURNALS series for readers aged 11 years + |
| All About Alice |
Judi Curtin
€9.95, O'Brien
Alice Next Door and Alice Again, together in a single volume!
ALICE NEXT DOOR
Best friends NEED to be together. Don't they?
Poor Megan! Not alone is she stuck with totally uncool parents, and a little sister who is too cute for words, but now her very best friend, Alice, has moved away. Now Megan has to go to school and face the dreaded Melissa all on her own.
The two friends hatch a risky plot to get back together. But can their secret plan work?
ALICE AGAIN
It's spring mid-term, and Alice has invited Megan to visit her in Dublin. Megan is hoping for a nice trouble-free few days with her best friend. No such luck! She soon discovers that Alice is once again plotting and scheming. It seems that Alice's Mum Veronica has a new boyfriend. The plan is to discover who he is, and to get rid of him. Alice, (with poor Megan in tow), becomes totally horrible in an effort to scare the poor man away.
Can this possibly work?
Just how horrible can she be?
And how can Megan stand by and watch while her best friend turns into a total monster?
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| Gnomes are Forever |
CECI JENKINSON
£4.99, FF
Oli and Skipjack want to punish cranky Mr Grumble for getting them into trouble so they liberate his gnomes ready to set them free — and they don’t stop there. They set out to free all gnomes which makes newspaper headlines, but not as big as those for a cat burglar who is pinching extremely valuable jewellery. The two stories get mixed up leading the boys into yet more hilarious, madcap trouble. Second in the ‘Oli and Skipjack’s Tales of Trouble’ series with a third on the way. Fair sized print with some pictures encourage newly confident readers. |
| Special Powers |
MARY HOFFMAN
£5.99, Barn Owl
Hating her own, boring life, Emily prefers being in her other imaginary world where things are much more exotic. Her real life takes a turn for the better when she meets the inspiring and unusual Power family. With their help she leads a campaign to stop the closure of the local library and starts to feel more confident about herself. Slowly she realises the Power family is even more unusual than they seem and live up to their name. Emily’s life will never be the
same … or will it? This is a gripping read from beginning to end full of excitement and plot twists. You aren’t sure where it will go, but really enjoy finding out. Fair size print, medium length novel. |
| Shrapnel |
ROBERT SWINDELLS
£5.99, Corgi
A very different view of life during WWII. 13 year old Gordon wishes he was old enough to join in. He is taunted
at school because his father is in a reserved occupation which meant he hasn’t fought and his elder brother, Raymond, isn’t fighting either. He has left home and no one knows what he is doing. After finding a gun in his room, Gordon tracks Raymond down and is ‘enlisted’ in his secret
government business. Gordon is thrilled to be involved at first, but it could be very dangerous for him and is Raymond telling the truth? Gordon is about to learn the true meaning of the term ‘hero’. This is an exciting, atmospheric story which really draws you in — you can almost hear the bombs
dropping. Fair sized print and short chapters encourage older readers ready for full length novels. |
| Then |
MORRIS GLEITZMAN
£5.99, Puffin
It is wartime and Felix and Zelda have escaped from a train taking them to a Nazi death camp. Their crime is being Jewish… at least Felix is. Being the nearest thing to family he has left, Zelda is by association. They escape from Nazi soldiers but realise they can’t stay safe on their own — they need shelter and someone to look after them, but how do they know who to trust? With a reward being offered for all Jews, death and betrayal is all around them and anyone who helps them is putting themselves in great danger. Thankfully there are remarkable people around willing to risk everything to help others. This is an incredibly powerful and moving story with a few shocks that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. Not for the feint heated, it can be read alone but if you want to know how the hildren got in this position read ‘Once’ the book that came before it. Medium length novel for capable, mature readers. |
| This Morning I Met a Whale |
MICHAEL MORPURGO
£7.99, Walker Hb
On one of his early morning trips to the River Thames, Michael is amazed to find a whale. What is even more amazing is he can read the whale’s thoughts. He discovers the whale has deliberately come with a message to warn people about the damage pollution is causing. The whale leaves after making Michael promise to pass his message on. But back at school no one believes his story until news reaches them of a whale beached by the Thames. A life or death rescue attempt is launched and Michael is determined to play his part. This is a thought provoking,
touching story with beautiful photographic type illustrations on every page. |
| Witch Baby and Me At School |
DEBI GLIORI
£4.99, Corgi
Being the only person in her family to realise her sister, Daisy, is in fact a witch baby has put a big strain on Lily.
This is only going to get worse as she starts her new school and Lily goes to nursery. Goodness knows what Daisy will get up to without Lily keeping an eye on her. She would be even more worried if she know that Daisy was being closely watched — by witches who are determined she shouldn’t get too human. They are all going to be surprised by the developing strength of Daisy’s powers. This is the second book in this very enjoyable, comical series full of interesting characters. Large print and some pictures encourage readers onto longer novels. |
| Blue Fire and Ice |
ALAN SKINNER
£12.99, Sibling Press Hb
The Land is divided into three distinct areas inhabited by very different types of people. One of them, Beadledom, is in serious trouble: they have recently been hit by a series of blue fires that are resistant to any attempt to put them out. The very organised Beadles are desperate and ask their Muddle neighbours for help, not really thinking they will be of any use. There are plenty of surprises all round as eventually all peoples of The Land draw together to try and save it. Secrets from the past are discovered as the three peoples get to really know each other. There is plenty of action and adventure in this first book in a new series with lots of plot twists and unusual characters to keep you interested. Full length novel with small print for competent readers. |
| Frozen in Time |
ALI SPARKES
£5.99, Oxford
Ben and Rachel are having a boring Summer holiday until they discover an underground vault in their garden. Nothing
can prepare them for the discovery of two frozen children. Freddy and Polly are used to helping their father with his
experiments, including being frozen for a couple of hours, but how did that turn into 53 years? As well as having to come to terms with all the changes a new century has brought, they long to find out what happened to their father. The funny thing is, they find coping with changes in things less daunting than changes in people; the way they dress and even more so their behaviour. To further complicate matters there are spies and foreign agents involved. When Ben and Rachel’s uncle goes missing the children are left in fear of their lives, not knowing who they can trust. This is a fantastic, action packed story with many surprises and breathtaking moments. You won’t be able to put it down. Full length novel for competent readers. |
| Lizzie Ribbon’s Hat Shop |
VIVIAN FRENCH/JOANNE PARTIS
£5.99, Macmillan
One of the Sparkle Street series. While Ellie and Emma’s mums chatted in a cafe, the girls rushed to a room at the back where they could get into Sparkle Street. They were just in time to help Lizzie who was rushed off her feet in her hat shop trying to get everyone’s hat ready for the Summer Festival parade. See how they get on in this pretty sparkly picture book for young readers with a pop up shop for you to start to make your own street. |
| Mole’s in Love |
DAVID BEDFORD/ ROSALIND BEARDSHAW
£5.99, Egmont
Waking up in Spring, Mole decided it was time to find love. BUT being very short sighted meant he looked in some very strange places with surprising mistakes — until someone kindly gave him a present that made everything clear. Find out what it was in this lovely, funny picture book. With just a few sentences on each page it’s great for new readers. |
| Lost Island of Tamarind, The |
Nadia Aguiar
£5.99, Puffin Books
Three children. Alone on the ocean waves, after a fierce storm throws their parents from the Pamela Jane into the icy waters below. Maya, Simon and Penny now face a wild rescue adventure that will lead them to a truly magical place . . .
Imagine an island with green mountains looming over pink sandy beaches and tide pools lit by the moon. An island with the darkest of secrets, where pirates lurk and jaguars roam – and a precious stone holds a power that is both wondrous and terrifying. This is where the children must go.
No one from the Outside has escaped the island before. Danger is everywhere. But they can’t turn back now. Could you
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| My Brother's Hot Cross Bottom |
Jeremy Strong
£4.99, Puffin Books
Nicholas and his family are hatching eggs for his school's Easter Fair. But the eggs keep going missing and their new rabbits, Saucepan and Nibblewibble, are causing havoc in the garden. Perhaps Cilla, their nosy new neighbour, is even more trouble than she seems?
(Warning! Side effects include split sides, aching cheeks and tears of laughter).
If you're craving more silliness and love Jeremy Strong books, joing Jeremy's Krazy Klub at www.jeremystrong.co.uk |
| Monsterbook: Pongdollop and the School Stink |
Michael Broad
£4.99, Puffin Books
Pongdollop wants his fellow monsters to join him in an uprising – and his secret weapon is a real stinker! Urk and Will have sniffed him out, but can they stop this smelly scoundrel from taking over the world?
This book has lots of very disgusting monsters in it (And some seriously stinky smells...)! |
| Operation Storm City |
Joshua Mowll
£6.99, Walker Books
Book Three of The Guild Trilogy: the adventure continues and the stakes are higher than ever.
Book Three of The Guild Trilogy finds Becca and Doug back at their old family home in Lucknow, India, where they discover research papers containing clues to their missing parents’ expedition route and to the location of Ur-Can – the fabled Storm City. Soon they are on a perilous journey to the Takla Makan desert, racing against the enemy by steam train, riverboat, and airship across the Himalayas. But the race is on to take control of Ur-Can – ancient source of power and threat to the security of the planet. Can Becca, Doug and the Guild get there in time? And has their quest taught them enough to solve the final mystery of Storm City, or will they find their parents only to lose them again for ever? Suitable for readers aged nine years plus.
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| Lump Of Coal, The |
Lemony Snicket
£9.99, Harper Collins
There is an old Christmas tradition that good boys and girls get presents and terrible children get lumps of coal. Can you imagine how terrible this makes a lump of coal feel? Lemony Snicket, the author of many other depressing books, would like to share the tale of one such lump of coal in his new book. If you would like Mr Snicket to dampen your holiday spirit, be sure to read this latest charming tale from the author of the wildly popular Series of Unfortunate Events book and film series. |
| The Birthday Book |
Various
£16.90, Kids at Random House
In this special birthday book, we have collected new and previously published pieces by today's most acclaimed children's writers, and extracts from well-loved children's literature, all accompanied by stunning artwork from leading illustrators. This collection includes stories, poems, fiction and non-fiction extracts - all specially chosen around the theme of birthdays and all with introductions by authors and celebrities.
Royalties will go to the Prince's Foundation for Children and the Arts, which works closely with local and national arts providers (like theatres, orchestras, museums and galleries) and schools to provide high quality and sustained access to the arts for children who would otherwise not have this access.
This anthology gathers together some of the best-known authors and illustrators writing and illustrating for children, including:
Philip Ardagh * Peter Bailey * Nicola Bayley * Ian Beck * Patrick Benson * Anna Bhushan * Malorie Blackman * Quentin Blake * Valerie Bloom * Lewis Carroll * Emma Chichester Clark * Eoin Colfer * Susan Cooper * Frank Cottrell-Boyce * Kevin Crossley-Holland * Roald Dahl * Alexis Deacon * Maura Dooley * Sara Fanelli * Anne Fine * Hannah Firmin * Catherine Fisher * Michael Foreman * John Foster * Jamila Gavin * David Gentleman * Emily Gravett * Anthony Horowitz * Norman Hunter * Eva Ibbotson * Bruce Ingman * John Lawrence * Mick Manning & Brita Granström * Geraldine McCaughrean * Roger McGough * Michael Morpurgo * Andrew Motion * E. Nesbit * Philip Pullman * Arthur Ransome * Chris Riddell * David Roberts * J. K. Rowling * Axel Scheffler * Nick Sharratt * Posy Simmonds * Joel Stewart * Noel Streatfeild * Eleanor Updale * Charlotte Voake * Jacqueline Wilson * Chris Wormell * Kit Wright |
| Grimble at Christmas |
Clement Freud
£7.99, Kids at Random House
Ten-year-old Grimble is worried. His parents are not very organized and they seem to have completely forgotten Christmas. Grimble tries his hardest to make the old Grimbles remember - dropping lots of hints, humming Christmas carols round the house and pointing out turkeys and Christmas puddings in the shops. But, with only nine days to go, Grimble decides there is only one thing to do . . . Arrange Christmas himself . . . |
| Cinderella Files |
Alan Durant
£7.99, Walker Books
Rumpelstiltskin, a private investigator employed by the king and queen, is looking into allegations that Cinderella is a gold-digger and fraud, only after Prince Charming's money. Open the evidence in the envelopes and discover the real Cinderella!
A retelling of the traditional Cinderella story with a novelty twist, for children six years and older. |
| I Will Surprise My Friend! An Elephant & Piggie Book |
Mo Willems
£4.99, Walker Books
One of a series of delightfully humorous tales for beginner readers from the award-winning creator of Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!
Gerald is careful. Piggie is not. Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can. Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to. Gerald and Piggie are best friends. In I Will Surprise My Friend!, Gerald and Piggie want to play a game and surprise each other, but the best surprise is the one they least expect.
The Elephant & Piggie books are original funny tales for ages seven years plus, told entirely in speech bubbles to help even the earliest readers gain confidence.
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| Hooray For Anna Hibiscus |
Atinuke
£3.99, Walker Books
Anna Hibiscus lives in amazing Africa with her family in a wonderful house in a beautiful garden in a big city. Join Anna as she sings for the president, gets in a terrible tangle with her hair and visits the other side of the city.
A collection of four linked stories about family life set in modern west Africa from a fresh, new storytelling voice, for children aged seven years and over. |
| Tale Of Two Mice |
Ruth Brown
£9.99, Walker Books
Meet Billy - a timid little mouse who just knows there’s a big, scary monster following him about…
A big old house can be a frightening place when you're only a small mouse. And whilst big brother Bo fearlessly searches the rooms for their supper, little brother Billy can't help feeling something is lying in wait. "Don't be so STUPID!" cries Bo in frustration after the fourth false alarm. But is Billy really being silly? Or is Bo in for a BIG surprise?
Peep behind the flaps to discover what lurks in the dark corners of the old house - and be surprised by the pop-up cat finale. |
| Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes |
Helen Oxenbury
£10.99, Walker Books
Nothing is sweeter or brings more joy than tiny baby fingers and chubby baby toes!
All over the world, babies are different. Yet in some ways they are very much the same: each one has ten little fingers and ten little toes – to play with, to tickle, to wave. And each child is very, very special to its parents… From Helen Oxenbury, best loved as the illustrator of the classic nursery join-in picture book We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes will fast become the essential book for baby playtime – and the perfect gift for a new arrival!
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| Happy Hector |
Polly Dunbar
£9.99, Walker Books
Hector is so happy sitting on Tilly’s lap – until the others all join in and spoil it. But Tilly knows just how to show Hector how special he is to her … she has painted a picture just for him!
From inspired picture-book creator Polly Dunbar comes a colourful and charming new series, following the escapades of Tilly and her friends, for children aged two years plus. |
| Hello Tilly |
Polly Dunbar
£9.99, Walker Books
Tilly lives in a little yellow house with her best friends. In this first book of the series, meet Tiptoe and Hector, Doodle, Pru and Tumpty as they play the trumpet, bang the drum, eat a feast and dance the Wiggle Wiggle Woo! Whump! Bump! Whoops!
From inspired picture-book creator Polly Dunbar comes a colourful and charming new series following the escapades of Tilly and her friends, for children aged two years plus. |
| Peanut: with Mini Peanut Toy |
David Lucas
£10.99, Walker Books
The story of a little monkey as big as a nut, alone in the wide, wide world!
Peanut is a very tiny monkey who's afraid of everything. When the wind blows, he thinks his tree is falling down; when the sun sets, he thinks the whole sky is on fire; and when everything goes dark, all Peanut can do is close his eyes and wait for The End. He's so busy waiting that when Beetle tries to squeeze past him, the pair of them fall from their branch. Luckily, Peanut's tail comes to the rescue and as they sit together to recover from their fright, a new day dawns. Watching the sunrise, Peanut realizes his new world isn't really frightening at all, and he and his new friend set out to explore their tree together.
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| Maisy's House and Garden |
Lucy Cousins
£14.99, Walker Books
Exciting, impressive; the perfect gift! This stand-up, fold-out, carousel now has a second floor, more toys, a bath, Maisy's friends, plus a colourful garden.
There’s so much for Maisy and her friends to do – dressing, dancing, cooking, having a picnic, riding a trike, gardening, watering, playing hide and seek, tidying up, having a bath … and finally going to bed, with Panda. This book offers endless scope for imaginative play with press-out figures of Maisy, Tallulah, Cyril and Charlie and over 40 press-out toys, plus more than fifteen flaps for little hands to explore … perfect for curious toddlers. A pull-out booklet full of suggested activities for children and parents is also included.
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| Encyclopedia Mythologica: Fairies and Magical Creatures |
Matthew Reinhart and Robert Sabuda
£19.99, Walker Books
The kings of pop-up return with the magical new Encyclopedia Mythologica series!
In the first of a thrilling new pop-up trilogy, the masterminds behind the phenomenal Encyclopedia Prehistorica explore the characters of magic and myth with glittering special effects. Fairies take to the air on fluttering wings, while pixies, gnomes, goblins and trolls career across the pages. Peer through the windows of the Elven Castle to see the magical interior and marvel at the enchanted tree and transforming flowers. Unicorns, griffins, merfolk and other fantastical beasts from all around the world are also covered in this breath-taking start to the series.
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| The Monster Who Ate Darkness |
Joyce Dunbar
£6.99, Walker Books
When a monster's appetite for darkness prevents Jo-Jo from sleeping he discovers that there's more to life than eating...
There is a tiny monster under Jo-Jo's bed, who discovers he likes to eat darkness; and the more darkness he eats, the bigger and hungrier he grows. What will happen if the monster eats all the darkness in the world?
An extraordinary hardback picture book for four years plus.
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| Bag of Bones, The |
Vivian French
£5.99, Walker Books
The good witches of Wadingburn are worried – there's a new witch in town with a bag of magic bones, and she's so evil she makes their toes ache... Another fun-filled fantasty in the Tales from the Five Kingdoms stories that started with The Robe of Skulls.
Truda Hangnail is a very wicked witch, banned from the Five Kingdoms because of her use of deep magic. Then she comes up with a fiendish plan to restore evil to the Five Kingdoms, transforming the good witches of Waddingburn into shrivelled, wicked old witches who will help her take over King Frank’s kingdom on his fiftieth birthday. Luckily, a sweet-natured half-human, half-elf named Loobly is witness to Truda’s evil spell and sets off to fetch help. As the birthday party looms and Truda’s evil gathers strength, Loobly enlists the help of Prince Marcus of Gorebreath and Gracie Gillypot, as well as old friends Gubble the troll and Marlon and Alf the bats, to stop Truda and send her packing to the house of the Ancient Crones to face her just deserts.
Suitable for readers aged nine years plus. |
| The Most Stupendous Atlas of the Whole Wide World |
by The Brainwaves
£12.99, Dorling Kindersley
Meet the Brainwaves, hilarious little mischief-makers who are about to take your child on an amazing journey around the world to discover everything about our planet.
These pint-sized pals will show children all about what the planet is made of, where the highest football stadium is and why Brazil is called Brazil. They’ll join the teeny travellers as they take a camel trek to the pyramids, have a ball at a bonzer Australian beach party, and play the maddest game of crazy golf across North America.
Packed with fantastic fold-out pages with mad maps, perfect pull-outs and fabulous facts on places and people, your child will learn loads of stuff about climate, oceans and Earth in space. It’s a terrific tour of our world!
A funny and fascinating look at the countries of the world with the unstoppable Brainwaves, for 10 - 14 year olds.
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| Alfie Green and the Snowdrop Queen |
Joe O'Brien
€7.99, O'Brien Press
It’s Christmas Eve in Budsville and Alfie Green wishes it would snow. There is one person who can help his wish come true – the Snowdrop Queen. But she lives near the top of the Perilous Peaks in Arcania. This is a place too dangerous for his friends, the tools, who often help him on his adventures in Arcania. So how can Alfie get there? Maybe Santa will help…
Eighth in the hugely popular Alfie Green series for readers aged six years and over.
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| Her Mother's Face |
Roddy Doyle
£10.99, Scholastic
Siobhán missed her mother dearly. She spent her days reminiscing about the time they spent together. She remembered her mother's voice singing and her mother's hands combing her hair, but no matter how hard Siobhán tried she could never see her mother's face...
Roddy Doyle’s touching and uplifiting story about love and loss.
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| Mothstorm |
Philip Reeve
£9.74, Bloomsbury Publishing
When an evil demigod and its army of moth-riding blue lizards threatens civilisation (i.e. Queen Victoria), Art, Myrtle and Jack must step into the breach in this singularly brilliant, hilarious fantasy
When the festive season arrives at Larklight, so does some unsettling news. A sinister-looking cloud is fast approaching the outskirts of the Known Universe. The closest planet, Georgium Sidus, has but two human inhabitants: the missionary Rev. Cruet and his daughter Charity. Their most recent communication read: ‘Great danger – imperative that-’
And so, aboard a Naval gunship, Art, Myrtle and family bravely go where only one man and his daughter have gone before, to determine the nature of the menacing cloud and rescue the Cruets.
But the evil which awaits them is far beyond their imagining, and it looks as though Mother may have finally Met Her Match. Lucky, then, that Jack Havock is hot on their heels to help in the battle to save the Universe (again) from an evil demigod and army of blue lizards, intent on deposing none other than Queen Victoria, to this gain control of the Universe.
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| Battle Fleet - The Adventures of Sam Witchall |
Paul Dowswell
£5.24, Bloomsbury Publishing
A swashbuckling and action-packed finale to Sam Witchall’s epic naval adventures. Escaping pirates and a violent storm, Sam returns to England to sail into battle at Trafalgar on none other than the HMS Victory. Patrick O'Brien for kids.
Sam escapes death in Australia when the truth about his false conviction is finally revealed. But on the journey back to England he faces pirates and a terrible storm, before making the longed-for trip back up the River Thames. Finally reunited with his family in Norfolk, Sam realises how much life at sea has become part of him. So when he hears that Napoleon plans to attack England, he is tempted to join the Navy once more, and finds himself Midshipman on none other than the Victory, preparing for one of the most epic battles in history: Trafalgar. |
| Hate That Cat |
Sharon Creech
£4.99, Bloomsbury Publishing
A celebration of language, poetry, cats and dogs
Jack is back at school and still enjoying lessons with Miss Stretchberry. But he doesn't agree with everything about her, for example Miss Stretchberry likes cats, and Jack hates them. Or does he ...
A delicious book perfect for reading alone, or aloud, that displays once again Sharon Creech's incredible skill as a writer of fiction for young readers.
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| GLITTERWINGS ACADEMY: Christmas Fairy |
Titania Woods
£4.49, Bloomsbury Publishing
A fabulous Christmas Glitterwings story that captures all the magic of the Christmas season, building on the publication of the 8 Glitterwings books already published
It is the Christmas holidays and fairy Twink has her friend Bimi to stay. To their horror they see a human walk into the forest where Twink's parents live and start to cut a tree down! Twink is horrified and as she desperately tries to stop the man cutting the down the tree she gets entangled in the branches and is taken away with the tree in the man's car. Twink is desperately afraid. Where is she being taken to? How will she get home? Twink evenutally makes friends with the man's daughter, Lindsay, who does all she can to help Twink get home. And in the meantime both Twink and Lindsay learn much from each other about the spirit of Christmas...
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| Rapunzel's Revenge |
Shannon and Nathan Hale
£9.99, Bloomsbury Publishing
Rapunzel's Revenge is a graphic novel with a difference. It is a Wild West retelling of the classic Grimm Brothers' fairytale. Bestselling and award-winning author Shannon Hale teams up with first-time author and husband Dean Hale, and with Nathan Hale (no relation to either) to create a stunning comic book.
Escaping from the enchanted tree where Mother Gothel imprisoned her, Rapunzel sets off alone through the ghost towns and Badlands of Gothel’s Reach. She is determined to find Gothel’s Villa and teach Mother Gothel a long-overdue lesson for her years of treachery and lies, and help her real mother get out of the mine camps where Mother Gothel has kept her enslaved.
Rapunzel’s adventures take her across a country much akin to the Wild Wild West, where she is soon wanted – dead or alive – for horse thieving, kidnapping, jail breaking and using her hair in a manner other than nature intended!
In this highly original take on the familiar story of Rapunzel, Shannon and Dean Hale introduce us to a feisty and dynamic heroine and Nathan Hale’s illustrations offer a striking visual feast, ensuring this is a truly unforgettable reading experience.
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| The Tales of Beedle the Bard |
J.K. Rowling
£6.99, Bloomsbury Publishing
A richly magical collection of tales from J. K. Rowling that will satisfy fans and new readers alike.
'You've never heard of The Tales of Beedle the Bard?' said Ron incredulously. 'You're kidding, right?' (From Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows)
Published by the Children's High Level Group in association with Bloomsbury Publishing Plc, The Tales of Beedle the Bard is the first new book from J. K. Rowling since the publication of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. The Tales of Beedle the Bard played a crucial role in assisting Harry, with his friends Ron and Hermione, to finally defeat Lord Voldemort. Fans will be thrilled to have this opportunity to read the tales in full. An exciting addition to the canon of Harry Potter, the tales reveal the wonderful versatility of the author, as she tackles with relish the structure and varying tones of a classic fairy tale. There are five tales: 'The Tale of the Three Brothers', recounted in Deathly Hallows, plus 'The Fountain of Fair Fortune', 'The Warlock's Hairy Heart', 'The Wizard and the Hopping Pot', and 'Babbitty Rabbitty and her Cackling Stump'. Each has its own magical character and will bring delight, laughter and the thrill of mortal peril. Translated from the original runes by Hermione Granger, the tales are introduced and illustrated by J. K. Rowling. Also included are notes by Professor Albus Dumbledore, which appear by kind permission of the Hogwarts Headmasters' Archive.
CHLG is a charity co-founded by J. K. Rowling and Emma Nicholson MEP and campaigns to protect and promote children's rights and make life better for vulnerable young people. £1.61 from every sale of Bloomsbury's edition of The Tales of Beedle the Bard will be donated to the Children's High Level Group
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| Killer Spiders |
SUSAN GATES
£5.99, Usborne
Third in the Animal Investigators series. Living with scientist
Professor Tolltrees, Effie and Meriel both have special skills that help with animal investigations. They have different feelings towards TV explorer Jack Nelson and the experimental space dome he has built on wasteland near them as a trial for a mission to Mars.There are strange rumours about the wasteland, one of which is that there are caves underneath. An email from Jack saying he’s under attack by giant spiders must mean he is hallucinating, but why? it all needs investigating, but at what cost? A very old, skilled predator is at loose and no one is safe. This is
a dramatic, pacey adventure with more than one hair-raising moment. Not recommended for arachnophobes — it made my skin crawl, and I like spiders! Fair sized print, edium length novel. |
| Peter Pan |
Robert Sabuda
£19.99, Simon and Schuster Hb
A glorious pop-up, theatrical version of the story of the boy who wouldn’t grow up. We see how he meets Wendy and her brothers; their lives in Neverland; their Indian friends and their encounters with enemies, Captain Hook and his pirates. Each double page has a breathtaking pop-up scene with a booklet telling the part of the story relating to it. This too is full of pop-ups of the characters as they appear. A great way to get really involved in the story. |
| Nutcracker |
JAN PIENKOWSKI
£17.99, Puffin Hb
I am always excited to get a new book by this fabulous illustrator and this more than lives up to my expectations. It is the magical story of Clara and her Christmas present of a Nutcracker who comes to life and fights the Mouse King. Full of curses and bravery we learn the background to their feud and how it is resolved. The story is retold by David Walser in a gorgeous gold and red glittered covered sumptuous edition with silver bordered pages illustrated with white silhouettes on glittering coloured backgrounds. It climaxes in a fantastic 3D scene. This really is a book to keep and treasure. |
| Hey Diddle Diddle |
Sam Foster
£7.99, (Summersdale Publishers hb
Most of us love to listen to Nursery Rhymes and join in when we are young. They sound good and are fun to recite, and you probably think they are just nonsense verse written for children. In fact most are commenting on serious
events or customs and are hundreds of years old, some going back to the thirteenth century, as this book explains. From having a ‘dig’ at unfair taxes to commenting on punishments and secret attempts to hide refuges from the law the real stories behind the rhymes are fascinating and
often far from the innocent chants they seem! |
| The Bumper Book of Betsey Biggalow |
MALORIE BLACKMAN
£6.99, Barn Owl
Ten short stories in one book about effervescent Betsey. She has strong ideas and fancies, doesn’t always get what she wants, but always bounces back! See what happens
when she puts on a show, tries magic trainers, battles a monster burger, finds her animal side and gets on the telly. Lots of fun with this engaging character. Large print and
some pictures to encourage new young readers onto novels. New fans will be pleased to know there are more
stories available. |
| Bambert’s Book of Missing Stories |
REINHARDT JUNG
£9.99, Egmont Hb
Being very short and unable to get around easily, Bambert
prefers living in the world of his imagination, making up stories. When he has written ten of the eleven stories for his ‘Book of Wishes’ he decides to put each in an envelope and send it out into the world to find its own setting. He puts a letter in with the story asking whoever finds it to return it to him and then waits. He even sends the last story of blank pages believing it will write itself. As they return he adapts them to the place they were sent from. They are an interesting and unusual mixture of stories which he realises reflect parts of his own life. Bambert waits
anxiously until only the unwritten one is left. Will his book ever be finished? The answer is in this curious, very entertaining book with a few twists. Don’t expect lots of happy endings, some of the stories are quite dark. With quite a few pictures, fair sized print and full of short stories it could encourage reluctant, older readers. |
| The Battle For Christmas |
JEREMY STRONG
£4.99, Puffin
Ellie’s present comes with a warning — they are cosmic pyjamas and the top and bottoms should never be worn together. Of course she has to try them on and ends up shrunk in a magical Christmas shop with her brother. They
are in the middle of a serious battle between a fed up Christmas Fairy who wants to stop Christmas and a bunch of toys who don’t want her to. Ellie and Max are drawn in — can they save Christmas? Read this very funny, and ever so slightly silly story to find out. Fair size print and some pictures to encourage developing readers. |
| Tail-End Charlie |
MICK MANNING/BRITA GRANSTROM
£11.99, Frances Lincoln Hb
The true story of the authors’s father’s life during the war before and after he joined the RAF. It is presented as a scrap book with the story told in pages from a diary pinned to pictures with comic strip illustrations, postcards, photos and cuttings. This all gives a very personal view drawing the reader in and making it accessible to even the most reluctant reader. We live through Charlie’s home life, recruitment, training and battle experiences including the
Battle of the Bulge. It all paints a vivid picture, you almost feel you are experiencing it |
| Olivia Helps with Christmas |
IAN FALCONER
£6.99, (Simon & Schuster
As Christmas approaches, Olivia is eager to help as usual —
decorating the tree (and herself), making two trees out of one and ensuring all is ready for Santa’s visit. Christmas Day finally arrives with presents and plenty of fun for Olivia’s family and the reader. There is something so endearing about this piggy family, especially Olivia herself. Her enthusiasm is catching. A lovely story with more details in the expressive pictures, with a few sentences on each
page it is perfect for new readers. |
| Cookie |
JACQUELINE WILSON
£12.99, Doubleday Hb
Beauty doesn’t like her new posh school. She finds it impossible to live up to her hated name which has promoted many unkind nicknames from her classmates. It was her dad’s idea, one of many that cause her sorrow, but
he isn’t approachable or the type of man you tell he’s made a mistake. He is very domineering and both Beauty and her mum live in fear of upsetting him, which is easily done. One day he goes too far and they leave him, but where can they go and can Beauty’s mum manage on her own? All is revealed in this unputdownable story told with great sensitivity in Beauty’s own words making the reader feel involved. Fair size print, full length novel. |
| The Spy Manual |
Andrew Parkinson
£12.99, Haynes Publishing
Is your bedroom bugged? Are you being watched? Do you need a disguise?
All boys and girls aged 7 to 11 need to be good spies. They need to know about surveillance, be able to make cunning gadgets and send messages in code. How else will they outwit the baddies and survive without being caught?
The Spy Manual from Haynes reveals the hush-hush world of espionage and explains how to be a brilliant secret agent. To train to be a spy, youngsters must get someone they trust to buy them this book and then guard it with their life – it must not fall into enemy hands. Then, by reading it covertly, they can learn about codes, disguises and invisible inks. Budding undercover agents will be able to send messages in code, find special hiding places and secretly observe unusual goings on. Importantly, they will protect their bedroom, make their own spy toolkit and arrange special parties for secret agents.
Never before has the undercover world of international espionage been revealed in this way. The Spy Manual has loads of tricks to impress friends and family plus many games and challenges. It has masses of photographs and everything is explained clearly. Equipped with the knowledge in The Spy Manual, agents will be able to exchange messages with fellow spies in Morse code, use special handshakes and passwords and build a tin telephone.
It's no secret that Haynes is famous around the world for publishing manuals which explain about everything from cars and washing machines to babies and caravans. They are now branching in to new fun manuals for children (where the ‘how to’ content is made by the children themselves), keeping with the accuracy and detail that Haynes manuals have built their reputation on.
About the author
Andrew Parkinson was awarded a coveted silver Blue Peter badge when he was only 12. Later, he travelled all over Europe as something to do with the music business, he says, and dealt with undercover operations in marketing and advertising. These days he claims to be a copywriter. He refuses to disclose where he got the knowledge to write The Spy Manual, but is thought to live somewhere in Devon.
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| Pirate Manual |
Andrew Parkinson
£12.99, Haynes Publishing
Does you want to be a lily-livered landlubber all your life? Of course you doesn't! You wants to be a pirate. Pirates is bold and brave. Pirates explores the world and finds treasure. Pirates sails the seas, fights battles and makes their enemies walks the plank. Pirates talks pirates language.
The Pirate Manual, published by Haynes, is a treasure chest for all budding pirates between 7 and 11 years. It explains how to make pirate things such as cutlasses and telescopes. It shows what pirates must wear – from arm hooks, eye patches and earrings to three-cornered hats and make-up. It looks at pirate ships, weapons, facts and legends. It explains parts of a pirate ship – flags, knots and nautical expressions. It shows how to make pirate's pudden' as well as maggots on tack, tiddlers' scramble and pirate punch.
The Pirate Manual has clear instructions for all pirates-to-be and many photographs of everything to do with piracy. There are suggestions for pirate parties, treasure hunts for pirates and most importantly, ways to make enemies walk the plank.
Don't be a landlubber merely watching your pirate heroes on television or on film – be a pirate like them. Demand The Pirate Manual, learn how to be a pirate, then begin plunderin' and lootin' for treasure.
Haynes is famous around the world for publishing manuals which explain about everything from cars and washing machines to babies and caravans! They are now branching in to new fun manuals for children (where the ‘how to’ content is made by the children themselves), keeping with the accuracy and detail that Haynes manuals have built their reputation on.
About the author
Andrew Parkinson served on the Blue Peter when he was 12 (he has a badge of silver to prove it). Later, he looked for treasure while working as a landlubber for the British Museum. These days, his piracy is directed towards copywriting and when not sailing the high seas he lives in the well-known pirate county of Devon.
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| Tim the Tiny Horse At Large |
Harry Hi
£12.99, Faber Hb
I am delighted to see the return of Tim who is still as tiny as ever. While preparing to be Best Man at his friend Fly’s wedding, Tim decides to find love for himself. Trying to get his first girlfriend, babysitting and caring for a pet are just some of the new experiences he tackles with his usual enthusiasm. This is another somewhat mad but hilarious look at Tim’s life, with a touch of pathos mixed in. With just a few sentences on each page and loaded with expressive illustrations, it is great to encourage new or reluctant readers, but really enjoyable for all ages and abilities. I love it! |
| Artemis Fowl and the Time Paradox |
EOIN COLFER
£12.99, Puffin Hb
When his mother becomes ill, Artemis attempts to make her better backfire leaving her close to death.Worse still, he realises he killed the only cure years ago. The only thing to do is to go back in time with Holly’s help and stop the destructive action of his younger self. Things don’t go according to plan and soon the older Artemis is facing his greatest challenge: to outwit his younger self. An old
adversary is also causing problems in both time periods. Confused? Everyone is, but all hopefully becomes clear in this latest dramatic adventure ripe with precarious, unpredictable situations laced with droll moments. Full length novel for competent older readers. |
| Escape Velocity |
MARK WALDEN
£6.99, Bloomsbury
I am glad to say this third book in the H.I.V.E. series contains all the energy, thrills and exhilarating escapades of its predecessors. When Dr Nero, H.I.V.E’s leader, is kidnapped and replaced by someone who had previously betrayed them, Otto and friends know they are in danger and have to escape from the school. Easier said than done, but they face even greater, almost impossible challenges when the full scale of the threat against the whole GLOVE organisation is revealed. There are surprises in store and a very big shock for at least one of them in this unputdownable story. Fair size print, full length novel for older readers. |
| Charlie Bone and the Shadow of Badlock |
JENNY NIMMO
£12.99, Egmont Hb
When Charlie investigates his grandmother’s picture he ends up in Badlock, a horrible place, and meets his ancestor, Otis who is in terrible trouble. Charlie manages to escape, leaving someone behind. Who is the intended ‘victim’ of the picture and how will it help release the Shadow? Back at school two of the endowed fight each other with disastrous consequences while Charlie is
determined to go back and rescue Otis despite the dangers involved. There is loads of excitement in this action-packed
adventure — the seventh in one of my favourite series. Fair sized print encourages readers onto full length novels |
| Kaspar Prince of Cats |
MICHAEL MORP
£12.99, Harper Collins Hb
It is 1912 and 14 year old orphan, Johnny Trott, works as bell-boy at the Savoy Hotel in London. When he carries Kaspar, the cat of a famous Russian opera singer, into the hotel one day he has no idea this is the first in a string of events that will change his life forever. Surprisingly fate takes a hand as Johnny and Kaspar seem destined to stay together in a life that involves making unexpected friends; more than one daring rescue and a trip on the ill-fated ship
Titanic. This beautifully presented, well written, story, full of glamourous illustrations, is captivating throughout. Michael cleverly blends emotion and drama without becoming sentimental. The moving pictures and arge clear print make it perfect for newly fluent readers and great for all ages and abilities. |
| Princess Eloise of Toulouse |
HARRIET OSBORNE/ NATALIE TURNER
£5.99, Zidane Press
Princess Eloise was the very clever youngest of seven sisters. Unlike the rest she was too busy learning to think about marriage. Unfortunately there was an unwritten law in her country which said all princesses had to marry at
the same time. When a king with seven sons heard about
them a party was arranged for them to meet. Six of the princes and princesses were getting on well, which left Eloise and Kevin. His rather traditional ideas of the place of a princess didn’t exactly meet those of Eloise. See her reactions and the consequences in this very funny picture book. Quite a few sentences on each page for those beginning to gain confidence in their reading. |
| The Parliament of Blood |
Justin Richards
£9.99, FF Hb
It is 1886 and George and Sir William work in an unofficial
part of the British Museum containing strange and unidentified, even dangerous artefacts. They are not happy when one, an Egyptian mummy, is taken off to be
unwrapped and runs off. They slowly realise vampires aren’t a myth. Many are living in disguise in society and believe their time to take over has come. As no one believes George and friends it falls to them to stop the
vampires, but they can’t trust anyone and are targeted to become undead themselves. See if they survive in this thrilling, action packed full length story for older readers, which is full of surprises. |
| Competition’s a Witch |
Kelly McClymer
£5.99, Simon & Schuster
Being half witch and half mortal Pru has difficulty settling into a witch school after spending 16 years living as a mortal. It is hard getting accepted, but her cheerleading
skills get her into the squad which she hopes will help.
She just has to try getting the rest up to championship standard while hiding how weak her magical skills are.
Life gets very complicated in this amusing full length story for older readers, first in a new series. |
| The Graveyard Hounds |
Vi Hughes
£8.50, Tradewind Books’
As Hallowe’en approaches, violent storms occur over the town where Mike and Annie live. Lightening strikes their playground and their dogs lose their bark. Noticing the new
school custodian is around whenever something strange happens, they decide to investigate and become caught up in a terrible secret which requires brave actions — are they
up to it? Find out in this spine-tingling story with large print and some pictures. |
| Ghostsitters |
Angie Sage
£6.99, Bloomsbury Hb,
In this latest Araminta Spook story her initial joy at being looked after by cousin Matilda while the adults are away soon fades. Matilda doesn't know much about looking after
anyone and comes with two very troublesome boy ghosts.
Things are all going horribly wrong when Minty tries one of her plans. See if it helps in this spookily funny story with large print and some pictures. |
| Whizz-Bang Winnie |
Laura Owen / Korky Paul
£3.99, Oxford
Winnie the Witch leaves picture books to star
in her own large print short novels with four
stories in each. Learn more about her chaotic
life as, eager to please, she tries to make a
birthday party surprise, win Wilbur back and
learns books can be magic. Her mad antics
make hilarious reading. |
| Vunce Upon a Time |
J. Otto Seibold / Siobhan Vivian
£9.99, (Chronicle Books Hb
Dagmar isn’t like other vampires. He’s shy, gentle, afraid of humans and a vegetarian with a weakness for candy. When he hears humans give out candy at Hallowe’en he plucks up the courage to venture out and soon makes friends with what he thinks is a ghost. There are surprises for everyone when true identities are revealed in this comical, warm-hearted story. Lovely picture book with vivid illustrations. |
| Highway Robbery |
Kate Thompson
£7.99, Bodley Head Children's Books
'Hold the mare for me, lad. And when I come back I'll give you a golden guinea.'
It's more money than the street urchin has ever dreamt of. But who is the rider, and why is there so much interest in his big black horse? And will the boy ever see the money he has been promised?
There's highway robbery in the air, but it isn't always entirely clear just who is trying to rob who.
A wonderful beautifully illustrated short story by award-winning author Kate Thompson, her first book for a younger audience, featuring the most famous highwaymen of them all and his wonderful horse, Black Bess.
Praise for Kate Thompson’s books:
“If you buy nothing else for your children (or yourself) this summer, buy Kate Thompson's The New Policeman...witty, entrancingly romantic and rooted in an ancient Celtic myth, this is a parable about not having enough time which hits hard - and perfectly suits our hectic age.” The Independent
“Whilst numerous children's novelists have drawn on the richness of Irish myth, legend and folklore...few have managed to do so with the skill, wit and mischief which characterise Kate Thompson's The New Policeman...elegantly paced and cleverly structured.” Irish Times
“[Creature of the Night] is something teenagers shouldn’t miss...an Irish children’s writer of dazzling talent and inventiveness.” The Times
“She has woven a truly modern tale with a timeless theme. Books such as [Creature of the Night] don't come around very often.” The Guardian
Kate Thompson is the only author to have won the Irish Children's Book of the Year Bisto Award four times - in 2002 for The Beguilers, in 2003 for The Alchemist's Apprentice, in 2005 for Annan Water and in 2006 for The New Policeman.
The New Policeman, won four major literary prizes in 2005/2006: the Whitbread Children's Book Award 2005, the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize 2005, the inaugural Irish BA Award for Children's Books 2006 and the CBI Bisto Book of the Year Award 2006, as well as being long-listed for the Carnegie Medal. Kate’s new teen novel Creature of the Night has just been long-listed for the 2008 Teenage Booktrust Prize.
Kate was born in Halifax, Yorkshire and grew up in Leamington Spa and Worcester. She spent most of her childhood at the local riding stables and racing yards and after she left school she worked with racehorses for several years in England and the U.S. Kate has travelled widely in the USA and India and studied law in London. After living in County Clare, she moved to Kinvara in County Galway and there she discovered her passion for playing the fiddle. She is now an accomplished player and also has a great interest in restoring instruments.
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| Christine Kringle |
Lynn Brittney
£6.99, BookSurge Publishing
The popular myth, that most people choose to believe, is that there is only one Santa Claus - an immortal being who brings presents to all the children in the world in one night, The realist, as anyone who is a member of the Yule Dynasty knows, is that there are, actually, many, many Santa's - all with different names, all servicing their own countries or regions - and they are not immortal at all.
Granted the average male life expectancy of a Yule is around 270 years but these Santa's operate family business and the job is handed down from father to son.
This, in essence, was the problem that was facing the Kringle family, the UIKS branch of the Yule Dynasty, as they flew towards the final approval of Korvatunturi Reindeerport in Finland for the annual Yule Conference. Kris Cringle, one of the busiest and most hardworking members of the Yule Dynasty, due to the large population of the United Stats, had no male heir. He and Mrs Kringle had been blessed only with a daughter, Christine, who was now fourteen years old.
It was time, as Ma Kringle had said, before they left home, "to bit the bullet". This year, Kriss was going to propose a motion that females be allowed to inherit the mantle of Christmas Gift Bringer.
Illustrated by award-winning artist Brita Granstrom, and aimed at anyone over the age of 10, Christine Kringle is going to be the most talked-about book this Christmas.
For a quick delivery, buy the book from YPD Books on the Web - http://www.ypd-books.com/acatalog/Lynn_Brittney.html. York Publishing Services Ltd, 64 Hallfield Road Layerthorpe YORK Y031 7ZQ United Kingdom, Phone: 01904 431213, Fax: 01904 430868
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| Dinosaur Cove 5: Catching the Speedy Thief |
Rex Stone
£4.99, Oxford Children's Books
Jamie and Tom are off for another adventure in Dino World, through their secret smuggler's cave. This time they decide to try crabbing - and they manage to catch a real prehistoric crab! Jamie looks it up in the Fossil Finder, and then the boys settle down to have a really good look at their Dino Crab. But then disaster strikes! A sneaky Velociraptor runs up and grabs the Fossil Finder! The boys have to get it back - if they don't, then in the future scientists might find their computer buried with a dinosaur fossil - and that could mess up the whole of dinosaur science!
So the chase is on. But the Velociraptor is fast and cunning and leads the boys into a valley full of geysers spouting hot water! Can they find their way through and get their Fossil Finder back - or is the sneaky Velociraptor just too speedy?
The fifth book in this exciting new series about two boys and their adventures in a secret world of dinosaurs with free stickers, a fact file about featured characters, maps, and much more. Each book in the Dinosaur Cove series features a different dinosaur, is illustrated throughout in black and white and is perfect for a parent to read to a child, or for a child to read for him/herself.
For more information log onto www.dinosaurcove.co.uk
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| Stink and the Great Guinea Pig Express |
Megan McDonald
£3.99, Walker Books
FUR-eaky! Stink and his friends are off on a hairy new mission: finding homes for 101 rescued guinea pigs aboard the Squeals on Wheels Express.
When three guinea pigs from the local pet shop make a great escape, Stink and his friends, Webster and Sophie, fly into action. Ta da! The Fantastic Three round up the loose furballs and bring them safely back to Mrs Birdwistle’s shop, where they discover guinea pig pandemonium! But the rescuing is far from over, so Stink and company hit the road in a crazy quest to find good homes for 101 squealing, whistling, chirping, wiggly pigglies. Let the Great Guinea Pig Giveaway begin!
Suitable for children aged five years plus. Other crazy Stink adventures include:
The Incredible Shrinking Kid
The Incredible Super-Galactic Jawbreaker
The World's Worst Super-Stinky Sneakers
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| Cinderella |
Retold by Max Eilenberg
£9.99, Walker Books
A modern retelling of a classic fairy tale - magic!
Not one ball but three. The tiniest, most magical slippers you could imagine. Two thoroughly nasty sisters … and a stepmother who is, ooh, HORRID! Fall for this sparkling retelling in which a dreamy prince captures Cinderella’s heart on the dance floor! Niamh Sharkey creates a flamboyant fairy tale cast, and Max Eilenberg’s text conjures magic and delight, with a lacing of wicked humour!
Suitable for children aged four years plus. |
| Kaimira: The Sky Village |
Monk and Nigel Ashland
£6.99, Walker Books
From a village made of hot-air balloons to a subterranean battle arena, two young people struggle to discover who and what they are – and how to use the astonishing powers they share.
High over China, the Sky Village – an intricate web of interconnected hot-air balloons – floats over a troubled landscape where animals and machines battle for control. Twelve-year-old Mei has been left in this strange place by her father, who insists on going alone to try and rescue her kidnapped mother. Meanwhile, half a world away, thirteen-year-old Rom struggles to survive in the ruins of Las Vegas. Mei and Rom have never met, but they share a common journal, a book that mysteriously allows them to communicate with each other. It also reveals that they carry the strange and frightening Kaimira gene.
Suitable for readers aged 10 years and over.
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| Riding Icarus |
Lily Hyde
£4.99, Walker Books
Endorsed by Amnesty International, this is a magical modern fairytale set in Kiev, featuring a girl called Masha who lives in a flying trolleybus called Icarus.
When rich Uncle Igor sends her mother abroad to work, Masha stays in Kiev and moves into an old, disused trolleybus called Icarus. But one night there is a terrible storm and Icarus takes off! Masha is transported to an enchanted place where she discovers that, on midsummer eve, she will be able to wish for whatever her heart desires. But will Masha be able to find the enchanted place again and work out her heart’s desire in time? And will she make the right wish to bring her mother back home so they can escape Igor’s clutches for ever?
Suitable for readers aged nine years and over.
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| The Singing |
Alison Croggon
£7.99, Walker Books
The stunning conclusion to the epic Pellinor series – four books telling an extraordinary tale of another world - for readers aged 14 years and over.
The Singing follows the separate journeys of Maerad and Cadvan, and their brother Hem, as they desperately seek each other in an increasingly battle-torn land. The Black Army is moving north and Maerad has a mighty confrontation with the Landrost to save Innail. All the Seven Kingdoms are being threatened with defeat. Yet Maerad and Hem hold the key to the mysterious Singing and only in releasing the music of the Elidhu together may the Nameless One be defeated. Can brother and sister find each other in time to fight the Nameless One, and are they strong enough to defeat him?
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| Dream Land |
Lily Hyde
£5.99, Walker Books
One girl’s struggle to find her true home, for readers aged 12 years and over.
It was meant to be like coming home... All her life, Safi’s parents have dreamed of returning to Grandpa’s native village in Crimea. But exchanging their sunny Uzbekistan house for a squalid camp is more like a nightmare. Will the return to a country where no one welcomes them tear Safi’s family apart, or can this strange land ever become home? A compelling story about the Crimean Tatars’ struggle to reclaim the land from which they were exiled in the Second World War.
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| Zal and Zara and the Great Race of Azamed |
Kit Downes
£5.99, Walker Books
Join the fantastical flying carpet race in this magical adventure novel from a debut author for readers aged eight years and over.
The Great Annual Carpet Race is fast approaching, and in the ancient, bustling city of Azamed there’s talk of little else. The competition is strong, and twelve-year-old Zal Thesa and Zara Aura know that to win, their carpet will have to be the best. If only they could compete on a rainbow carpet! But as everyone knows, they only exist in legend ... don't they? When Zal and Zara find the beginnings of a trail to discover the magical truth behind the stories, so begins a fast-paced contest of their own. With the Great Race only a day away and the sinister Shadow Society on their backs, time is not on their side...
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| Super Freak, The |
Brian Falkner
£4.99, Walker Books
A mind-bending adventure with strong boy-appeal from a major, new antipodean talent.
Jacob John Smith is always getting into trouble. Most of the time, it isn’t even his fault – just a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. When he accidentally discovers he has the power to control people’s minds he thinks all his troubles are over. Little does he realize, they are only just beginning… Suitable for nine years plus.
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| Riding High |
June Crebbin
£4.99, Walker Books
Can Amber save the day and the pony trekking expedition?
Amber is excited to be going on Merryfield Hall’s pony trekking expedition in Wales. Three days of trail riding across hills and along beaches – even wild camping! But Donna isn’t happy and just wants to cause trouble. And when the expedition faces disaster, Amber has to do some quick-thinking to save them! Suitable for nine years plus.
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| You're All My Favourites |
Sam McBratney
£5.99, Walker Books
From the creators of Guess How Much I Love You for children three years and over, this enchanting story tells of the unconditional love between a family of bears.
Mummy and Daddy Bear reassure their three little bears that each is equally special. But the little bears start to wonder: do their differences mean one is loved less? After some love and affection, the bears are satisfied that they really are all their parents' favourites!
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| The Kick Off |
Dan Freedman
£4.99, Scholastic
Jamie Johnson’s desperate to become his school’s star football player (and in his dreams, a top professional, too). He’s got so much to prove, and not just on the pitch – so why aren’t his mum, teachers and best mate on his side? The pressure’s on – has Jamie got what it takes?
Other titles in the Jamie Johnson series include:
Shoot to Win
Visit www.jamiejohnson.info for lots more information |
| Gormy Ruckles: Monster Mischief |
Guy Bass
£3.99, Scholastic
Gormy is fed up with everyone telling him he isn't monstrous enough yet. Why won't anyone give him a chance? And with a mysterious creature wreaking havoc all through the house, Gormy is going to need to be more than scary!
A hilarious and loveable character from a fantasic new talent!
Other titles in the Gormy Ruckles series includes:
Monster Boy
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| Stick Man |
Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler
£10.99, Scholastic
"Stick Man lives in the family tree with his Stick Lady Love and their stick children three." But it's dangerous being a Stick Man. A dog wants to play with him, a swan builds her nest with him. He even ends up on a fire! Join Stick Man on his troublesome journey back to the family tree.
Suitable for two to six year olds from the superstar creators of The Guffalo and Tiddler. |
| Cleopatra: Escape Down The Nile |
Caroline Corby
£5.99, Walker Books
Before they were famous ... meet Cleopatra, who will one day be the Queen of Egypt, in this new series about the early lives of some of history's most charismatic figures.
A young girl flees the city, fearing for her life. Living in hiding, uncertain of her future, she finally receives news from home. The time has come to face her enemies – and take her place as Princess Cleopatra, future Queen of Egypt.
Suitable for readers aged nine years and over.
Other titles in the Before They Were Famous series:
Boudica: The Secrets of The Druids |
| The Pencil |
Allan Ahlberg
£10.99, Walker Books
When a pencil draws a rubber, a battle of wits ensues!
A pencil draws a boy, a dog, a cat and a whole world for them to play in. Then the pencil draws a brush, and the brush adds colour to everything. Everyone is very happy, until the pencil draws a rubber … which begins rubbing everything out!
Suitable for children aged three years and over.
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| The Baby In The Hat |
Allan Ahlberg
£10.99, Walker Books
A sweeping, old-fashioned romance, in which a boy becomes a man … and the baby he saves, his bride!
An epic journey begins when a young boy rescues a falling baby by catching her in his hat. He uses his reward money to sail off round the world, making his fortune along the way. When he returns home, he finds that the baby has grown up into a beautiful woman. They fall in love, marry – and have a baby of their own!
Suitable for children aged three years and over.
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| Trouble With Dragons, The |
Debi Gliori
£10.99, Bloomsbury Publishing
The world is populated by some beastly dragons who care nothing for how much they mess up the oceans, chop down the trees, gobble up all the food and use everything up without stopping to think.
Those dragons need to wake up to what they are doing to their world before it is too late ...
A delightful and energy-filled picture book that addresses concerns about the environment in the most child-centric and delightful way possible.
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| Araminta Spook: Ghostsitters |
Angie Sage
£6.99, Bloomsbury Publishing
Araminta’s Aunt Tabby has won a Transylvanian holiday for four so she and all the adults of Spook House are going for a much-needed break… but it just so happens to be Araminta’s birthday, too. So who will keep an eye on Araminta and her friend Wanda? Mathilda, Araminta’s ‘grown up’ cousin, arrives to babysit, along with two rowdy teenage ghosts. At first, Araminta and Wanda are in heaven – staying up late, playing loud music, and ordering take aways – no more of Aunt Tabby’s rules! But they soon find themselves cleaning up after everyone else; being home alone isn’t turning out as they’d hoped.
So Araminta and Wanda come up with a plan. They have to find a way to move their unreliable ghost-sitters to another house. Maybe then Araminta can start to have a proper birthday…
The fifth book in a witty, spooky, younger series for seven to nine year olds who are keen to find quality fiction and who are not attracted to pink, glittery books!
Other Araminta Spook titles include:
My Haunted House
The Sword in the Grotto
Frognapped
Vampire Brat |
| Honesty Wart: Witch Hunter! |
Alan MacDonald
£4.99, Bloomsbury Publishing
Life for Honesty and his sisters Mercy and Patience is not a bundle of laughs. His family are strict Puritans and singing, dancing and anything that sounds like fun is forbidden. Life, Honesty thinks, can't get much worse when Christmas is cancelled by order of the government.
But he is wrong - the real problem is Gran who has one tooth, a hooked nose, a very hairy chin and a pet toad called Merlin. Honesty suspects she may be a witch, especially since she's been helping the neighbours with love potions and cures for sick pigs. When the WitchFinder General - Ezekial Bones visits the village, Honesty is convinced his family's terrible secret will be discovered. Can he save Gran from the terrible Three Tests for Witches (eg pond ducking - if she swims she's a witch, if she drowns she's innocent.) For a boy who has never told a lie in his whole life - it's asking a lot.
From the creator of Dirty Bertie and Trolls, the new History of Warts series also includes:
Sir Bigwart: Knight of the Wonky Table
Custardly Wart: Pirate (Third Class)
Dithererus Wart: (Accidental) Gladiator |
| Foggy, Foggy Forest, The |
Nick Sharatt
£8.99, Walker Books
Who's lurking in the foggy forest? Look through the transparent pages to find out!
What can that be in the foggy, foggy forest? Whether it’s a fairy queen on a trampoline, three brown bears on picnic chairs, or an ogre doing yoga, children will love trying to guess what each foggy silhouette will be. This unusual novelty book uses opaque paper to create the mysterious misty landscape, and hilarious fairytale fun lies around every corner. Suitable for three years and over.
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| Alice & Megan Forever |
Judi Curtin
€7.95, O'Brien Press
Secondary school’s a whole new world!
Megan and Alice are starting secondary school; with new subjects, new teachers and new friends, it’s going to take a bit of getting used to. And when Megan meets Marcus, the class bad-boy who’s always in trouble, but doesn’t seem to care, things really start to get complicated.
At least she has Home Ec class with Alice – the worst cook in the school – to look forward to, so school’s not all bad!
Alice’s ill-fated Home Economics adventures will have readers aged 10 years and over, in stitches!
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| Diabolic Downloads |
Jim Halligan
€6.95, O'Brien Press
We all like to get something for free ... right?
Free downloads of ringtones and pictures for your phone? Brilliant! Everybody is thrilled when Nicky Nixxon from Nixxter Express starts giving away free ringtones.
Everybody except Jack Keely, that is. His phone is a wreck and couldn't download so much as a cold.
But then, some gifts can come with strings attached. Jack soon finds out just how diabolic a free download can really be ...
An up-to-the-minute story with an original take on the alien invasion theme, with chapters for independent readers who don't want 'baby' books and is a 'real' book for the eight years plus age group. Edgy and a bit scary (but not too scary!) with lots of dialogue, snappy narrative and entertaining illustrations that are funny as well as creepy.
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| Move |
Cnoor Kostick
€9.99, O'Brien Press
Everything comes with a price …
What if you could live in a universe where you were always the winner?
Pushed to his limits by a horrific accident, Liam discovers he has an amazing ability: he can ‘move’ to parallel universes where things always turn out just the way he wants. But every time he moves the fabric of the metaverse begins to tear. And something evil begins to find its way in ...
A gripping fantasy adventure story of the battle between a teenage boy and a terrible demon.
It is also the deeper tale of how Liam changes, emerging from the final crisis a much wiser person than the boy for whom the ability to swap universes made the world his toy.
A thrilling roller-coaster ride from the award-winning author of 'Epic' and 'Saga'. Green Flag - for readers aged 13 years and over.
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| Swap |
Malachy Doyle
€7.99, O'Brien Press
What’s it like, being someone else for a change?
Huw, from Wales, and Marcus, from Dublin, meet up on holiday in County Cork.
It turns out they’re identical to each other - ‘the perfect spit’! Even their own mothers can’t tell them apart.
So they hatch a plan to do a swap. Only things start to go very wrong ... very quickly!
A fast-paced and funny tale of mistaken identity for readers aged 10 years and over.
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| Witch in the Woods, The |
Marian Broderick
€6.99, O'Brien Press
A book of mischief and magic …
Anna Kelly is a witch who’s more interested in sleepovers, school friends and soccer than practising her magic.
Then she meets Verbena Vile, a mad, bad and dangerous witch – and wishes she’d worked a bit harder on her spells!
When Verbena kidnaps Anna’s best friend Mary it’s up to Anna and her cat Charlie to rescue her … with a little help from the powerful Mrs Winkle, of course.
Will Anna’s magic be strong enough to save Mary? Can she and Charlie defeat the vile Verbena?
An entertaining and mischievous sequel to The Witch Apprentice, for readers aged eight years and over.
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| Poison Throne, The |
Celine Kiernan
€12.99, O'Brien
A Friend. A Father. A Kingdom. Which one would you sacrifice?
This compelling trilogy of court intrigue, adventure and romance is a winning combination of imagination, powerful storytelling and magnificent characters.
Fifteen-year-old Wynter Moorehawke returns home after a five-year sojourn in the bleak Northlands. All has changed in her absence. Wynter is forced to make a terrible choice: stay and bow to the King’s will, or abandon her ailing father and join her friend Razi and the mysterious Christopher Garron in their efforts to restore the fragile kingdom to its former stability. But this changed kingdom is a dangerous place, where all resistance is brutally suppressed and the trio constantly risk assassination, torture or imprisonment.
Atmospheric and intriguing, evokes an enchanting and convincing other world – love, treachery, jealousy, tenderness, war, wisdom and court life are all vividly depicted.
Set in a fantastical medieval Europe, The Poison Throne is a gothic tale of intrigue, adventure and romance which draws the reader in from the very first sentence and doesn't loosen its grip until the last.
‘This is marvellous, vivid writing, and storytelling at its absolute best. It reminded me of the first time I read Philip Pullman - I was utterly engrossed’ - Roddy Doyle
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| Star Wars |
Clone Wars The Visual Guide
£14.99, Dorling Kindersley
Get up close and personal with the Clone Wars universe as revealed in the 2008 cinema release and TV series plus learn more about this crucial time in the history of the galaxy.
Pick up cool facts on the Republic and Jedi order, behind-the-scenes information on your favourite characters including Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker and discover more about Clone Wars locations, wars and vehicles. Plus mind-blowing pictures from the TV series will make you feel like you’re there.
It’s a thrill a minute, larger-than-life journey into the Clone Wars universe!
An exciting addition to any Star Wars fans collection - and there's a galaxy-full of DK Star Wars books to collect.
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| Peter Pan in Scarlet |
Geraldine McCaughrean
£14.99, OUP Oxford; Illustrated Ed edition
Something is wrong in Neverland. Dreams are leaking out – strangely real dreams, of pirates and mermaids, of warpaint and crocodiles. For Wendy and the Lost Boys it is a clear signal – Peter Pan needs their help, and so it is time to do the unthinkable and fly to Neverland again. But back in Neverland, everything has changed – and the dangers they find there are far beyond their dreams…
For anyone who loves the story of Peter Pan, this is a great chance to renew their acquaintance with all their favourite characters. You may have read the full version of Peter Pan in Scarlet, the sequel to Peter Pan, which was published a couple of years ago and may know that this is a slightly darker and more complex tale than the original. This lavish new edition of Peter Pan in Scarlet has a reduced and simplified text, retold for a younger audience. To go with the story are absolutely wonderful illustrations by David Wyatt.
David Wyatt produced the dramatic cover for the 2006 edition Peter Pan in Scarlet which made such an impact and the new illustrations create a dreamlike Neverland world as well as a complete look for Peter Pan and all the other characters. The pictures really make the book and are likely to go down in children’s illustration history.
This is a great way to introduce your younger children to Peter Pan. Even in its simplified form it’s still a substantial book and will need a pretty confident reader; however it would also be a great story to read aloud. For older children it’s also a great read and the illustrations only add to its attractiveness. This is likely to be a major attraction in the run up to Christmas. Expect to see it up towards the top of the best seller lists.
Peter Pan in Scarlet builds on the famous Peter Pan copyright bequest from JM Barrie and every copy bought will help raise funds for the Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity and their current appeal to raise funds to build the hospital’s New Clinical Building. So go out and buy this great book for yourselves, your children and future generations.
Peter Pan in Scarlet is published on Thursday 2 October 2008 with a cover price of £14.99. |
| The Trouble with Dragons |
Debi Gliori
£5.99, Walker & Company
“Dragons eat up all the food and drink up all the drink
And use everything up without stopping to think.
They also throw parties and make lots of noise
And leave a huge mess after playing with their toys.”
This is an absolutely charming book with lovely illustrations. The world is populated by thoughtless, wasteful dragons that care nothing for how much they pollute the seas, chop down the trees and eat up all the food. Only when they realise that they are destroying the world they were born into and face an existence without wildlife do they start to have a care.
This cautionary tale is a great way to introduce young children to the ways in which the planet is being mistreated and the possible consequences. It takes complex issues and makes them easy to understand in a fun and accessible way. But don’t be put off if that sounds a bit serious because it’s so much more than that, it’s a fun and funny book to read with your child. The charming rhyming text and witty illustrations will make children and parents alike smile and then laugh out loud.
Every now and then, as a book reviewer, you see a book which you think you would rush out and buy if you hadn’t just been sent a review copy. his is one of those and I’m already working on a list of nephews and nieces to buy a copy for birthdays and Christmas.
The Trouble with Dragons is published on 6 October. Go and buy a copy and treat yourself.
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| Captain Underpants and the Invasion of the Incredibly Naughty Cafeteria Ladies Collector's Edition |
Dav Pilkey
£7.99, Scholastic
Is Captain Underpants ready to take on three massive, tentacled space aliens (in disguise)? Join George and Harold on an adventure that's WEDGIER than ever! This very special collectors' edition comes with an exclusive CD, packed with hilarious songs, games, Underpants facts and much, much more!
Other titles in the Captain Underpants series include:
Captain Underpants and the Preposterous Plight of the Purple Potty People
The Adventures of Captain Underpants (Mini Edition)
The Extra Big 'N' Extra-Crunchy Captain Underpants Book O' Fun
The Tra-la-laa-rific Captain Underpants Collection
Captain Underpants and the Attack of the Talking Toilets Collector’s Edition plus CD
The Adventures of Captain Underpants: Collectors -Edition
Captain Underpants: Three More Wedgie-Powered Adventures in One
Captain Underpants and the Big, Bad Battle of the Bionic Booger Boy Part Two
Captain Underpants and the Big, Bad Battle of the Bionic Booger Boy Part One
Captain Underpants and the Wrath of the Wicked Wedgie Woman
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| Butterfly Meadow: Twinkle and the Busy Bee |
Olivia Moss
£3.99, Scholastic
Twinkle and the other butterflies are playing in the meadow when they bump into a lost bumble bee. While searching for the sweetest pollen, he’s flown too far from his hive and now he can’t remember his way back! How will they get him back to his hive?
Other titles in the Butterfly Meadow series include:
Dazzle's Prickly Problem
Skipper to the Rescue
Mallow's Top Team
Twinkle Dives In
Dazzle's First Day |
| Charlie & The Haunted Tent |
Hilary McKay
£3.99, Scholastic
Charlie’s big brother Max isn’t scared of anything … Except Aunt Emma’s spooky house. At last it’s Charlie’s chance to be the hero. Those ghosts had better watch out!
Other titles in the Charlie series include:
Charlie & The Cheese and Onion Crisps
Charlie & The Big Snow
Charlie & The Cat Flap
Charlie & The Great Escape
Charlie & The Rocket Boy
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| A Finder's Magic |
Philippa Pearce
£9.99, Walker books
A mysterious stranger called Mr Finder offers to help Till find his dog, and they interview various witnesses including a heron, a mole, a riddling cat - and Miss Mousey, whose sketch of a peaceful riverbank offers a vital clue. The quest to find Bess is full of magic but Till begins to mistrust his supposed ally Mr Finder - until at last he realizes the truth, and they track down the real culprit,a finder who likes to keep what he finds. At the end of this enchanting story Till is reunited with his beloved Bess and a new book - of the story - will be born.
A beautifully crafted fantastical mystery about a little boy called Till who loses his dog Bess, for eight years and over, from the author of Tom's Midnight Garden.
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| Young Samurai: The Way of the Warrior |
Chris Bradford
£5.99, Puffin
August 1611. Jack Fletcher is shipwrecked off the coast of Japan – his beloved father and the crew lie slaughtered by ninja pirates.
Rescued by the legendary sword master Masamoto Takeshi, Jack's only hope is to become a samurai warrior. And so his training begins.
But life at the samurai school is a constant fight for survival. Even with his friend Akiko by his side, Jack is singled out by bullies and treated as an outcast.
With courage in his heart and his sword held high, can Jack prove himself and face his deadliest rival yet?
‘A fantastic adventure that floors the reader on page one and keeps them there until the end’
Eoin Colfer
Suitable for eight to 12 year old readers.
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| Slapstick |
Roger McGough
£8.99, Puffin
If Philosophy is the Why?
And Science is the How?
Then Poetry is the Wow!
In this stunning, brand-new volume, you'll discover poems about poems, poems about life, poems about kangaroos and chameleons and caterpillars (though not in the same verse) and many more. This touching and thought-provoking collection will make you laugh, cry, or simply say 'Wow!'
Suitable for five to eight year olds. |
| Jeremy Strong's Laugh-Your-Socks-Off Joke Book |
Jeremy Strong
£4.99, Puffin
Is it time to pause for breath? No because there’s also Streaker the dog, indoor pirates, trolls and superheroes AND karate kicking and time-travelling AND mad grannies and so much more.
Featuring a brand new short-story by Jeremy, the Laugh-Your-Socks-Off Joke Book is jam-packed with jokes, quizzes,puzzles and games, plus extracts from all your favourite stories.
Warning! No Knock-knock’s were used in the making of this book.
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| Diary of a Wimpy Kid |
Jeff Kinney
£4.99, Puffin
Greg Heffley finds himself thrust into a new year and a new school where undersize weaklings share the corridors with kids who are taller, meaner and already shaving.
Desperate to prove his new found maturity, which only going up a grade can bring, Greg is happy to have his not-quite-so-cool sidekick, Rowley, along for the ride. But when Rowley's star starts to rise, Greg tries to use his best friend's popularity to his own advantage. Recorded in his diary with comic pictures and his very own words, this test of Greg and Rowley's friendship unfolds with hilarious results.
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| Kitty Kitty |
Michele Jaffe
£5.99, Puffin
Life in Italy. It's all gondolas, gorgeous guys and 142 types of pizza. Right?
Oh. So. Wrong.
Meet Jasmine Callihan, supersleuth extraordinaire.
What happens in the story is:
32% Thrilling mystery
51% Gut-churning yearning
17% Clothes CRISIS slash hair HORROR
100% NOT HER FAULT
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| Mungo and the Dinosaur Island! |
Timothy Knapman
£5.99, Puffin
LOOK OUT! It's a... DINOSAUR STAMPEDE!! Mungo's latest book is the wildest adventure of all. Horrible hunter Scarface Sam and his men think the secret of the Lost Island will make them rich... But when the dinosaurs get out of CONTROL and OUT of the book, it's up to MUNGO to put things right! A hilarious action-packed adventure for brave heroes everywhere!
Suitable for five to eight year olds. |
| Yo Ho Ho! A-Pirating We'll Go |
Kaye Umansky
£5.99, Puffin
I want to be a pirate.
It's a pirate's life for me!
I'll wear a skull-and-crossbones hat
And sail the salty sea!
Sail away with five little pirates in search of treasure and adventure... Dance a jig on a brig, decide how to wear your hat, discover that pirate food's disgusting, find that treasure chest and lots more – before coming safely home for tea! A rollicking and colourful collection to delight little pirates everywhere!
Suitable for five to eight year olds. |
| Charlie and Lola: I will be especially VERY careful |
Lauren Child
£7.99, Puffin
Lola's best friend Lotta has an extremely special new coat, and Lola really wants to borrow it. Lotta isn't so sure... 'I will be especially very careful,' says Lola. But will she be able to keep it all fluffy and white and new?
Suitable for three to seven year olds. |
| Weird |
Jeremy Strong
£5.99, Puffin
Josh thinks Fizz is dentally challenged and fluent in gibberish. Fizz thinks Josh is the Prince of Handsomeness.
Being fourteen has never been so weird...
They're destined to work together at Marigolds Old People's Home – can Cupid's arrow strike among the Zimmer frames? Throw in Josh's wacky mother with her goats on the sofa and Fizz's goddess-like big sis and one thing is certain. Things will get a LOT weirder before they start making sense – and can the oldies really make their great escape... using tablespoons?
Suitable for 11 to 14 year olds. |
| Give Peas a Chance |
Morris Gleitzman
£4.99, Puffin
Give fun a chance! Surprise your mum with a chainsaw, be a bigger star than Tom Cruise, save the world with a plate of vegetables, start your new life in a taxi, rescue your family with a tomato, send your dad into a panic with a tractor, do a good deed with a paper bag on your head, pack your suitcase for a trip to the spleen, upset your auntie with ten kilos of chocolate, swap a bomb for three ice creams on a steam train... and lots more.
Other hilarious stories from this author include:-
Two weeks with the Queen
Doubting Thomas
Bumface
|
| Glitterwings Academy 5: Fledge Star |
Titania Woods
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Twink can't wait to start her second year in Bluebell Branch at Glitterwings Academy. And even more excitingly she finds out that she is to be substitute for the Glitterwings Fledge team – a fairy flying sport that is high speed and takes skill and daring to play well. But when Twink is unexpectedly called upon to play she fluffs her chance. Twink is so disappointed. How can she get back on the team? And why is Mariella being so nice to her when the rest of the team is being rather horrible to her? Both Twink and Mariella have much to learn about the nature of team spirit ... |
| Comings and Goings at Parrot Park |
Mary Murphy
£3.99, Walker Books
It’s summertime and 53 Parrot Park is a busy place to be. All the Murphys are there, and so are their Canadian cousins, who talk funny but are just like their Irish cousins in every other way. Daddy has borrowed some tents to make room for everyone – the place is full of Murphys! Then the summer ends and it’s back to school. All is quiet again at Parrot Park ... for now. For readers aged five years plus. |
| Hero and the Sinking Ships |
Richard Hamilton
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Forced to leave their beloved nest by a cook, a cat and the freezing cold, the Morgan Street Rats set sail for the delectable promise of peace and quiet, hot grime and stench in the Tropics. (Or so they think).
But, before too long, it becomes startlingly clear that the young family of rodents are far from headed for their dream destination! And that is not the only surprise on the horizon. Little Hero is showing signs of rather unusual behaviour - he prefers the sweet taste of raisins to old fish bones, and wants to explore the more refined side of life. If he doesn't see the error of his ways soon, Hero could land himself in extremely deep water.
A wonderfully entertaining novel full of jeopardy, humour and wit as well as lots of rats, a Russian sea captain, his pig, sinking ships and much much more...!
|
| Hocus Pocus |
Paul Kieve
£6.99, Bloomsbury
Ever since the author Paul Kieve was given a magic set at the age of ten, he has been buying magic books, props and posters and honing his skills as a magician. He keeps all his magical paraphenalia in his house in Hackney, right around the corner from the magnificent Hackney Empire, a venue played at by all the great illusionists of the golden era of magic, some hundred years ago.
One day, as Paul is on the phone to his friend, sitting in his ‘Poster Room’, chatting to a friend about how well his magic show went from the night before, he gets a strange sensation . . . Suddenly, the huge figure of Alexander steps out of the poster and starts telling Paul off for getting too big-headed! Alexander and the other brilliant magicians in the posters are going to show Paul what magic is really about!
Packed with fascinating true stories and unbelievable shows of wizardry, not to mention step-by-step instructions in how to become a master of magic yourself, Hocus Pocus is a unique magical mystery tour written by the magic consultant to Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban film and personal magic teacher to Daniel Radcliffe.
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| Goldilocks and the Three Bears |
Lauren Child
£12.99, Puffin
Once upon a time, on the edge of a big dark forest there lived a little girl called Goldilocks. You have probably heard of her? If so, you will know three things: she was small, she had lots of golden curls and she had far too much curiosity for her own good. So when Goldilocks discovers an intriguing wooden cottage deep in the forest, she just can’t resist peeking inside. Now why would there be one, two, three of everything . . .?
Lauren Child brings her trademark innovative approach to this wonderfully warm and witty retelling of the classic cautionary tale, and adds her own clever twist.
Following the success of The Princess and the Pea, she once again joins forces with award-winning portrait photographer Polly Borland, whose stunning photography brings this truly original picture book startlingly to life. They are joined by a talented theatre designer, Emily Jenkins, who has designed and created an enchanting hand-crafted miniature world.
The sets for the book took over a year to make. The doll-sized cottage, complete with winding staircase, stands about a metre tall. Real turf was grown for the roof. Special wallpaper and fabrics were designed and printed, featuring woodland motifs. Exquisite miniature furniture, including the three bears' beds, chairs and porridge bowls, were carved, crafted and painted by Emily and her team of designers. Tiny slippers were sewn, cushions stuffed and bed linen edged and folded. The tiny spoons were carved specially – even the porridge is real!The cast of characters were made by world-famous doll maker, R. John Wright, whose dolls and bears sell to collectors all over the world.
Goldilocks is 30 centimetres tall and made of soft felt with hand-painted features; her golden locks are made of the softest mohair. She arrived from America complete with a tiny hand-woven basket of felt daisies, which you can see her carrying in the book. Mother, Father and Baby Bear are all made from the softest fur and have tiny resin claws. Father Bear arrived with a hand-carved wooden pipe, which, if you look very closely, you can spot in the pictures, warming by the fire.
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| Bridget Fidget |
Joe Berger
£5.99, Puffin
One morning, a giant surprise box arrives. Quick as a flash, Bridget Fidget is out of bed and downstairs. It must be - a unicorn! Just what Bridget has always wanted. But the big box seems to be full of smaller boxes. Could it be a penguin? Or maybe just . . . a mouse?
A story about the girl in a whirl who can't stay still, for three to five year olds. |
| Adventures of Dotty and Bluebell, The |
Jools Oliver
£9.99, Puffin
This delightful collection of stories tells the adventures of three best friends through the seasons. There's Bluebell, Jake and Dotty – the youngest and the naughtiest by far! In spring, there's mischief and mayhem when she visits a farm, while in summer a day at the beach becomes a hilarious adventure. Autumn sees Dotty create her very own Halloween party, and in winter things nearly go very wrong when she decides to go for a ride in Santa's sleigh!
Four Delightful Stories of an Ever-so-naughty Little Girl and Her Big Sister that five to eight year old fans of Enid Blyton will adore. |
| Fright Night: The Howling Castle |
Steve Rogers
£4.99, Puffin
The cast and crew of the Fright Night TV show are filming at the spookiest castle they’ve ever seen! The owner looks eerily like Count Dracula, growling wolves bare their fangs in the forest below and there’s even talk of vampires. Twins Adam and Lana suspect the count has something sinister to hide – can they uncover the mystery of the creepy castle before it’s too late?
Perfect for readers of 8+ who love to be seriously spooked!
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| Magic Puppy - School of Mischief |
Sue Bentley
£3.99, Puffin
Freya and her family have moved to be nearer her grandma and Freya is really missing her friends. Even new neighbour Isaac and his naughty puppy, Teddy, can't cheer her up. But when Old English sheepdog puppy Storm arrives, Freya's world becomes filled with magical fun...
The latest installment of Magic Puppy adventures for five to eight year olds that's definitely worth barking about! |
| Charlie and Lola: I'm just NOT keen on spiders |
Lauren Child
£7.99, Puffin
Lola's really extremely not very keen on spiders. Lola says, 'They're always dangling and running about, Charlie.' So Charlie shows Lola all the things spiders can do, like walking upside down and making amazing spider webs, and then Lola finds that she is quite keen on spiders after all! The chunky format of this six-page jigsaw book makes it perfect for small hands! |
| Silverfin: The Graphic Novel |
Charlie Higson
£9.99, Puffin
It's James Bond's first day at Eton, and already he's met his first enemy. This is the start of an adventure that will take him from the school playing fields to the remote shores of Loch Silverfin and a terrifying discovery that threatens to unleash a new breed of warfare.
See young Bond in action for the very first time in this superb graphic novel version for eight to 12 year olds. |
| Mermaid Curse: The Golden Circlet |
Louise Cooper
£4.99, Puffin
Lizzy Baxter's life is turned upside down when she moves to Cornwall and discovers that she has a long-lost brother and that their mother is a mermaid. Lizzy soon learns that the tranquil underwater world is ruled by an evil mermaid queen, Taran, who will stop at nothing to complete her power. After a terrifying battle, Taran is one step nearer to her goal. But then she disappears. Lizzy is suspicious. She knows Taran needs the black pearl – the key to ultimate power – but how is she planning to get it?
A thrilling final episode by Louise Cooper, the renowned fantasy writer, for eight to 12 year olds.
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| Little Leap Forward, A Boy in Beijing |
Guo Yue & Clare Farrow
£9.49, Barefoot Books
In the summer of 1966 a little boy called Little Leap Forward is growing up in Beijing, the capital city of China.
Little Leap Forward’s friend, Little-Little, catches a yellow bird and puts it in a bamboo cage so that Little Leap Forward can study the notes it sings and teach it songs. But the bird never sings. So Little Leap Forward buys a flute and plays to the bird to try and get it to sing, but this doesn’t work. Suddenly the Red Guards arrive in the city and everyone’s lives change. They’re not allowed to have any music or fly kites anymore and one of Little Leap Forward’s friends moves away from the city completely because her family are in danger. In the end Little Leap Forward decides it will be better to release his bird back into the wild and give her back her freedom.
I really enjoyed reading this story and the illustrations are also lovely.
Lucy Blower
Aged 11 yrs
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| Percy Jackson And The Lightning Thief |
Rick Riordan
£5.99, Puffin Books
This book is really good. It is a mix of Greek Mytholagy and The Present. It follows the story of three children who are demigods (part god) on a quest to hades to receive Zeus's lightning bolt by the end of the summer solstice, will they retreave it? Read and find out. |
| The Mum Shop |
CECI JENKINSON
£4.99, Faber
First in a new series, ‘Oli and Skipjack’s Tales of Trouble’. Ever wish you could swap your mum for one who would let you do whatever you liked? Oli is delighted to find a mum shop that lets him do just that — or rather it lets him swap his mum for another one, but it doesn’t work out quite as expected. After his first attempt goes wrong, his second seems too good to be true. She drives a tank and will train him to be a secret agent, but she has ulterior motives and plans to use him in her anti-children plot. Will Oli realise the truth in time to stop her? Will he regret swapping his mum? All is revealed in this very funny, action packed story. |
| Witch Baby and Me |
DEBI GLIORI
£4.99, Corgi
Lily discovers it can be hard getting used to a new baby sister especially when she shows signs of being a witch baby and you are the only one who seems to notice. She not only has to contend with her sister’s magic, but her magical, smelly dog, which is invisible to everyone else — all while adjusting to living in a new house hundreds of miles from her old one. When she meets a girl her own age she hopes to be able to make friends without her strange family secrets being revealed, unaware magical forces with their
own agenda are watching closely determined to stop her. Find out if they succeed in this very funny story, first in a new series with plenty of magic and surprises. |
| Mr Big |
ED VERE
£5.99, Puffin
Mr Big lived up to his name. Sadly everyone took one look at
him and kept away — no one tried to get to know him. This made him very sad and lonely so when he saw a piano all alone in a shop window he bought it. At home he thought of all the things that made him sad and played beautiful music. Everyone who heard it loved it and wanted to know who was playing. Mr Big received his first letter asking if he wanted to join a local band, but what would happen when he met them? Find out in this lovely, moving story with gorgeous illustrations. |
| Willy and Hugh |
ANTHONY BROWNE
£5.99, Picture Corgi
Poor Willy was lonely, no one wanted to be his friend. He
thought he was in real trouble when he bumped into big Hugh, but to his surprise instead of bullying him they got on. Hugh helped Willy and, like a true friend, he found a way to return the favour. This is a touching story aided by very expressive pictures. |
| Singing to the Sun |
VIVIAN FRENCH/ JACKIE MORRIS
£10.99, Egmont Hb
Brought up by a father who valued power and a mother who valued gold, poor Thorfinn didn’t know much about love. When he grew up his parents told him he was to marry a daughter of the King of the Golden Mountains.
One of them would inherit the King’s power, one his wealth, the other happiness and love. Needless to say his parents argued over which of the first two he should choose, but it didn’t matter unless he completed the very difficult task the King set. Find out how he gets on and what choice he makes in this tender story with a few unexpected twists. A picture book with striking illustrations, fairly small print and lots of sentences on each page which could encourage reluctant readers. |
| The Demon Assassin |
ALAN GIBBONS
£6.99, Orion HB,
Having stopped the evil King Lud once, Paul realises his fight is far from over and takes Hell’s underground back to London in the Blitz. His task is to stop another of his ancestors assasinating the Prime Minister, and bringing Lud back. Missing his mother and girlfriend he makes new friends and feels guilty over his feelings for them. He faces
an emotional journey putting them and himself in great danger while learning more about his family curse. Although Paul’s powers are getting stronger he is up against a far greater force — and his own insecurities. This is another gripping, action packed story full of mystery and excitement. The second book in the series, it can be enjoyed without having read the first, but if you haven’t already read it you will probably want to! Full length novel for mature, competent readers. |
| Percy Jackson and the Battle of the Labyrinth |
RICK RIORDAN
£9.99, Puffin Hb
It looks like Percy is about to break his own record by etting
‘kicked out’ of a new school before he has even started. He can hardly explain he was fighting vampire type demons, but it means his summer break at Camp Half Blood starts earlier than expected. He arrives as another disaster threatens — it seems Luke is on the brink of finding a way into the heart of the camp via a labyrinth. The only way to stop him is to go into the labyrinth with its many hidden dangers. This fourth story in the series is another exciting, action-packed adventure with the usual clever mix of good verses evil, magic and humour. Fair size print, full length novel. |
| Dino Egg |
CHARLIE JAMES
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Having survived their adventures in ‘Fish’ the Finn family face an even weirder problem — the hatching of a dinosaur egg. When this happens to Ned and Bill they naturally decide to hide the pink spotted creature and keep it as a pet. Easily done for a short while, but as ‘Lucky’, as they later call him, grows he proves to be very intelligent with a mind of his own and a huge appetite. As if this didn’t cause enough chaos in their lives, Ned is chosen to be a mascot in a swimming competition and he hates water! Chaos ensues in this hilarious story as the basically kind Finn family face greedy, bullying, tormenting opponents — and that’s just the humans! |
| Werewolf Versus Dragon |
BEASTLY BOYS
£6.99, Simon & Schuster Hb
First in a new series ‘An Awfully Beastly
Business’. Ulf looks like a normal boy and
for most of the time he is, but each full
moon he turns into a werewolf. He lives with
Dr Fielding in Faraway Hall, the headquarters
of RSPCB (Royal Society for the Prevention
of Cruelty to Beasts) — a rescue centre for
rare and endangered beasts of every kind.
When a baby dragon is found shot dead it
becomes apparent something is very wrong. Could someone
be trying to undo the good work of the society? With a little
ghostly help Ulf discovers a terrible secret and it falls to him
to try and stop a massacre. |
| Stadium School - Long Show |
Jefferies & Goffe
£4.99, A & C Black Publishers Ltd
Roddy Jones has just started Stadium School and has made some equally passionate and determined friends, none more so than Jimmy. He is a gifted player and easily outshines his rival, Jack. And with first team selection round the corner, Jimmy is sure to be chosen. Nothing can hold him back from realising his footballing dream... except his lucky socks. But when one sock goes missing, Jimmy’s superstitions leave him in doubt. Then a note appears telling Jimmy he will get his sock back, but only if he walks the forbidden and haunted old stadium grounds at midnight. Desperate for his lucky sock, will Jimmy risk breaking school rules, or can Roddy help lay his ghosts
before they consume him, or worse, expel him…
Before becoming a full-time writer Cindy Jefferies had a varied career that had nothing to do with writing, including being a Venetian-mask maker and a video DJ. Cindy's first
novel, Sebastian's Quest, was published by Barry Cunningham at Chicken House. Now she is best known for her popular series Fame School (Usborne) set at a school
for the performing arts. Stadium School is Cindy's first book co-written with her son Seb, who is perhaps even more football-mad than the books' characters. When not thinking about football, Seb plays in an indie band. |
| Stadium School - Hot Prospects |
Jefferies & Goffe
£4.99, A & C Black Publishers Ltd
Stadium School is more than just a special summer course, it's a really cool school that teaches its students everything
about football. With its state-of-the-art facilities, top coaches and location in the grounds of a former football stadium, the school is the place for aspiring footballers. And better still it's a co-ed boarding school, so the kids can live and breathe football from morning to night.
Roddy Jones is the star of his school five-a-side team, in which he plays alongside his best friend Bryn. However, Roddy has bigger dreams. So when he is spotted by a scout for Stadium School and invited to a trial he is determined to win a place, whatever it takes. But even if he does get in, will his parents be able to afford the fees and how will Roddy feel about leaving Bryn behind?
Before becoming a full-time writer Cindy Jefferies had a varied career that had nothing to do with writing, including being a Venetian-mask maker and a video DJ. Cindy's first
novel, Sebastian's Quest, was published by Barry Cunningham at Chicken House. Now she is best known for her popular series Fame School (Usborne) set at a school
for the performing arts. Stadium School is Cindy's first book co-written with her son Seb, who is perhaps even more football-mad than the books' characters. When not thinking about football, Seb plays in an indie band. |
| Wow! The Visual Encyclopedia of Everything |
Dorling Kindersley Publishers Ltd
£19.99, Dorling Kindersley Publishers Ltd
This is the traditional encyclopedia reinvented for the 21st century internet generation. It features a fascinating and lively encyclopedic look at a million things guaranteed to keep your child's curious mind engaged. You can find everything you ever wanted to know about traditional topics from Science and Industry to Arts and Entertainment. Only this book's different. Discover it all through visually amazing, stunning graphics. From a map of Spain made entirely out of pictures of its people and products to space exploration, you can pour over stunning images with your child and pick up fascinating facts and figures in bite-sized chunks. Read it together, can you count them all? This is a great example of what DK does best: treating non-fiction subjects differently and encouraging visual learning.
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| Show Me The Money |
Alvin D. Hall
£9.99, Dorling Kindersley Publishers Ltd
Show Me The Money is a treasure trove of advice from financial expert and star of BBC’s Your Money or Your Life, Alvin Hall.
Money might make the world go around, but only if you know how to use it, and who better to teach your child all about finance than BBC’s Your Money or Your Life presenter, Alvin Hall. They’ll enter the world of business and economics learning about how money works, from its history to how it grows.
An indispensable investment to get your child to understand money and finances – read it together and watch their money grow.
The Author
Alvin Hall is President of Cooperhall Press and runs seminars about the investment markets for financial companies around the world. He's written several training manuals and books including the best-selling Getting Started In Stocks, Getting Started In Mutual Funds and Money for life: Everyone's guide to Financial Freedom. Alvin is the presenter of BBC's Your Money or Your Life.
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| SHAPE LAND Silly Samuel Square |
Helen Wendy Cooper
£4.99, Trafford Publishing
Fantastic pre-school book for children up to the age of 5 years!
Samuel Square is Shape Land's rudest shape!
He always sticks his tongue out at the other shapes and says "Pthhhhhhh!"
He buys some roller blades and whizzes around Shape Land causing mischief, ending up stuck in a dustbin.
Will his shaped friends be able to pull him out? Or will Samuel Square finally have to learn some manners?
Find out in this fun, exciting story which helps educate children on shapes, and can be told time and time again.
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| Star Crazy Me |
Jean Ure
£5.99, Harper Collins
Carmen is in Year 9 and has serious ambitions to be a rock star. She has a great voice, has taught herself to play the guitar, and with one of her best friends, Josh, actually writes her own songs. The school is having a Top Spot contest for would-be pop stars, and Carmen eagerly puts her name on the list. But when Carmen hears a spiteful girl at her school make comments about her weight, she bunks off school and swears she is never going back..
A brilliant new comedy drama from Jean Ure, all about the ups and downs of seeking fame. |
| Born to Run |
Michael Morpurgo
£5.99, Harper Collins
“The sack wasn't just drifting gently along like everything else, it was turning of its own accord. There was definitely something inside it, struggling against the side of the plastic bag, kicking at it, squeaking and squealing in terror. He had no idea what it might be, only that it was alive and in danger of drowning.”
When Patrick saves a litter of greyhound puppies from the canal, he can’t bear to hand them all over to the RSPCA. He pleads with his parents: couldn’t he just keep one of them? But nothing will convince them and Patrick cries himself to sleep – only to be woken by a greyhound puppy licking his face!
Patrick christens his puppy Best Mate, and that’s what he becomes. Patrick’s favourite thing is to watch Best Mate running at full stretch on the heath, a speeding bullet, a cheetah-dog. Until one day Best Mate is kidnapped by a greyhound trainer, and begins a new life as a champion race dog. Suzie, the greyhound trainer’s step-daughter, loves Best Mate on first sight and gives him a new name, Bright Eyes. But what will happen when he can’t run any more?
Joy and heartbreak combine in this bittersweet tale of a champion greyhound’s journey through life – and from owner to owner… |
| Paddington - Here and Now |
Michael Bond
£9.99, Harper Collins
'I'm not a foreigner,' exclaimed Paddington hotly. 'I'm from Darkest Peru.'
Paddington – the beloved, classic bear from Darkest Peru – is back in this fantastically funny, long-awaited, brand new illustrated novel from master storyteller Michael Bond!
Paddington Bear always manages to find himself in tricky situations, sometimes extraordinary situations. Like the time he had a difficult encounter with a policeman or when he found himself in deep water with a newspaper reporter. But since arriving from his native Peru after an earthquake Paddington has always felt at home with the Brown family who found him on Paddington station. Then one day, a surprise visitor arrives at thirty-two Windsor Gardens. Is it time for Paddington to decide where 'home' really is?
In 2008 Michael Bond's first novel featuring the adventures of Paddington Bear will celebrate its fiftieth anniversary. Paddington's amazing ability to get into and out of trouble is at the heart of the countless stories that have been loved the world over ever since. However, it is many years since a new novel has been published, and in celebration of this landmark, Michael Bond has written the funniest and the most moving Paddington novel ever. |
| What! |
Kate Lum & Adrian Johnson
£5.99, Bloomsbury Publishing
Patrick does not want to go to bed. So he finds lots of reasons to explain his sleeplessness. And each reason sets Patrick’s very resourceful Granny on a monumental task! Just as everything seems to be getting resolved, Patrick finds himself saved from having to go to bed.
An unusual and anarchic bedtime story for young children. |
| Collected Poems |
Allan Ahlberg
£14.99, Puffin Books
Allan Ahlberg's five poetry books, written over a period of twenty-five years – Please Mrs Butler, Heard it in the Playground, Friendly Matches, The Mighty Slide and The Mysteries of Zigomar – have delighted generations of children and received many accolades and prizes.
Allan has sifted through them and chosen a collection to delight and entrance a new generation of readers and their parents. Here are all the trials and tribulations of childhood, embracing school, quarrels, friendships, football and storytelling from a much-loved author and poet.
Charlotte Voake's black-and-white illustrations enchance the charm of this handsome and definitive collection.
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| My Dad, the Hero |
Stella Gurney
£3.99, Walker Books - Walker Stories
A touching yet amusing story about a boy's admiration for his dad – and his acceptance of his limitations.
T is part of a happy family, and he loves everything about them – especially his clever dad, who drives a taxi and can make anything you like out of wood. When T’s teacher arranges for his dad to come into school to talk about what he does for a job, T should be as proud as proud. But there’s one problem: his dad doesn’t speak English. T worries and worries about what to do – does his teacher realize? Will everyone laugh at him because his dad can only speak Bengali? But T’s dad is cleverer than T thinks. When he comes in to school anyway and does an amazing puppet show, T realizes that being the same as other people is not everything. His dad really is a hero!
For ages five years plus - the Walker Stories series supports beginner readers who are making the transition from picture books in an engaging, entertaining and accessible way.
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| Toffee and Pie |
Pippa Goodhart
£3.99, Walker Books - Walker Stories
John and his horse each make a new friend when they travel to a new place...
John and his family are always on the move: they live in a trailer that is drawn by their cob, Pie, and they never stay in one place for very long. When they arrive at the next new town, John isn’t looking forward to starting another new school. But there he meets a boy called Tom – who loves horses as much as he does! John can draw fantastic horses and Tom thinks he’s great, and suddenly it doesn’t matter so much that John can’t read or write very well. When the two friends meet up after school to ride their horses together – John on Pie and Tom on Toffee – John wishes he could stay here for ever. But soon it’s time to move on again … maybe they will be back next year.
For ages five years plus - the Walker Stories series supports beginner readers who are making the transition from picture books in an engaging, entertaining and accessible way.
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| Where's Wally? The Great Picture Hunt Book 6 |
Martin Handford
£6.99, Walker Books
Wally's stupendous new adventure is nothing short of a masterpiece. A Where's Wally? for the Tate Modern generation, the book is filled with a host of extra puzzles, activities and special stickers to complete the game. This is a triumphant return for the speccy, bobble-hatted one.
Get ready for Wally's most bamboozling book yet - and collect all six Where's Wally? books with: Where's Wally?; Where's Wally Now?; Where's Wally? The Fantastic Journey; Where's Wally? in Hollywood; and Where's Wally? The Wonder Book. |
| Martha in the Middle |
Jan Fearnley
£10.99, Walker Books
Martha discovers it's not so bad being in the middle - with a little help from Frog...
Squashed in the middle, invisible in the middle, Martha thinks nobody really notices her ... so she runs away to the bottom of the garden. Here she meets Frog who, by showing her round the garden, persuades her that the middle really is the very best place to be.
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| How to Heal a Broken Wing |
Bob Graham
£10.99, Walker Books
When Will helps an injured bird, he learns that a little kindness can go a long way...
No one in the busy city sees the bird lying on the pavement, its wing broken. No one but a small boy called Will. He and his mum carry it home and, with time, rest, and a little bit of hope, the wing mends … and they set the bird free to soar over the city once more.
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| Danny's Drawing Book |
Sue Heap
£5.99, Walker Books
Danny loves drawing pictures in his yellow drawing book. One snowy day, when he and his friend Ettie go to the zoo, Danny draws an elephant and an aardvark. Danny and Ettie watch in amazement as the animals come to life in the pages – and then they join them to embark on a wildly exciting journey to somewhere very different!
Every picture tells a story in this charming adventure of the imagination from an award-winning illustrator - with free drawing book inside. |
| Maisy Goes to the Museum |
Lucy Cousins
£7.99, Walker Books
There’s so much for Maisy and her friends to discover in the museum: collections of old toys, dinosaurs, cars, costumes … even a large mammoth – a favourite of Eddie’s. “Now for the food collection!” says Charlie, as he leads them to his favourite room … the café.
This is the most recent Maisy First Experiences title, aimed at three to five year olds. Other books in the series include Maisy; Charley and the Wobbly Tooth; Maisy's Christmas Eve; Maisy Goes Camping; Maisy Goes to Hospital; and Maisy Goes to the Library.
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| The Woppapotamus from Titan |
Helen Bonney
£5.99, www.penpress.net
Woppapotami are gentle, thick-skinned, mostly without a care in the world like kind-hearted Wally Woppapotamus. But the arrival of an alien space probe turns Wally's comfortable existence upside down when he is given an awesome task by his leader - it's up to him to save his own planet from invaders and...disaster!
Hurled into space, Wally goes on the most amazing journey, and discovers that his is not the only planet that needs saving...
As Wally Woppapotamus would say - Enjoy the music and songs on the CD, enjoy the story. Most important of all - enjoy and look after the world you live in!
A delightfully funny and gently tale with an environmental message that's all wrapped up in a cute and cuddly little purple Woppapotamus package - a great gift for under 10's. |
| Alfie's Adventures - Book 1 |
Gerald Howe
£5.99, www.penpress.net
Swashbuckling pirates, highway robbers, maps to find hidden treasure - the stuff of every little boy's dreams… But were they really dreams?
For Alfie the explorer, climbing Everest, discovering lost cities in South America, fighting off bandits, being whisked aboard UFOs - it was all in a day's work if you were a member of the Royal Explorers Society, even if you were only eight years old!
Together with Eddie, his faithful tracker dog, Alfie had the most amazing adventures - his secret hoard of treasures proved that he wasn't dreaming. And when he became a day time hero as well, then life simply couldn't be more exciting!
Alfie's magical adventures are a sheer delight to read for children aged four years plus.
There are five Alfie's Adventures books in total and the Alfie books have now sold over 600,000 copies! |
| Moi & Marie Antoinette |
Lynn Cullen
£5.99, Bloomsbury
As a little girl in Austria, Marie Antoinette had nothing more stressful to think about than what to eat next. When she was just a little older she was taken to France to marry the future king, and life became a lot more serious!
Marie Antoinette's pug dog, Sebatien, narrates this charming tale of the young princess's journey to her life as Queen of France.
Relishing the details of courtly life and relating the pressures of becoming one of the world’s most famous — and infamous — queens, this delightful and beautiful book brings a real historical figure to life.
Accessible and entertaining, this book is a great first look at French history for youngsters.
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| Penny the Athlete |
Elieen O'Hely
€8.99, Mercier Press
It is Health Awareness Month in Ralph’s school. The new arrival in the pencil case, Baron de Couberpen, is
whipping the pencils into shape for the inaugural Pencilympics. But even before the Pencilympic flame is lit, the competition takes a terrible turn when Cheetah the Cheater almost drowns during training for the rowing race.
Penny has her suspicions of who is behind the sinister sabotage, and once things start to go wrong in the
classroom she must sacrifice her dreams of Pencilympic glory to defeat her old enemy...Black Texta!
Look out for the Penny the Pencil colouring competition in bookshops around the country - and each copy of Penny the Athlete has a super gold Faber-Castell pencil attached to the spine of the book!
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| Noisy Town |
Felicity Brooks
£9.99, Usborne
Always popular with small children, this type of book has sound buttons to press, to bring alive the everyday cacophony of urban life. With its colourful computer images of people, this could become a period piece – so when used, store for the Antiques Roadshow programme of the future. |
| The Animal Boogie |
Debbie Harter
£6.99, Barefoot Books
Includes a music CD. Singalong books give an added dimension to stories and allow musically-minded children to express themselves through the narrative. Plus, we learn our left from our right and capture something of the rhythm of the jungle’s occupants.
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| Off We Go To Mexico! |
Laurie Krebs and illustrated by Christopher Corr
£5.99, Barefoot Books
A large-paged slim volume absolutely bursting with the colour and vibrancy of Mexico. Christopher Corr’s illustrations are vivid and accessible. With easy to read text, this is an excellent first book about the fascinating Spanish and native American nation. |
| Indian Tales |
Shenaaz Nanji Illustrated by Christopher Corr
£14.99, Barefoot Books
Such a wealth of stories and information, this is book every adult should read – let alone their children. Corr’s illustrations take the presentation to another level. A book to be read aloud and dramatised – such is its richness |
| Born to Dance |
Katherine Reynolds
£7.95, i4w2
When the animals take over their own circus after the humans run away, they create a unique form of entertainment. The narrative follows Dylan, the horse, and his faithful friend, Red Tabby, an intelligent cat. Suspend your disbelief and enjoy a well-written tale in the tradition of Dodie Smith’s The Hundred and One Dalmatians. |
| A Dangerous Game Of Football |
Barbara Spencer
£7.99, Ryelands
Somerset writer Barbara Spencer-Jones brings to life the adventures of Jack, who is on the trail of a lost friend. She spins a lively narrative where football-mad boys come out on top in a fantasy world of evil baddies and giant crows. Just the book for boys who should read more widely.
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| Wilderness |
Roddy Doyle
£12.99, Scholastic Children’s Books
A work that tells the stories of brothers Tom and Johnny, on an adventure-holiday in Finland, their half-sister Gráinne, at home in Ireland, and their respective mothers. Poetically weaving together alternating but parallel narratives, this is a work that concerns itself with both physical and psychological journeys into wildernesses: those places and situations where one confronts desolation and truth. Categories of adult and children’s fiction aside, this is a rarity in publishing: a novel in the true sense of the word, a work that transcends itself.
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| The Way Back Home |
Oliver Jeffers
£5.99, Harper Collins Children’s Books
A picture book that tells the story of the relationship between a boy and a friendly Martian, who meet after the boy crash-lands on the moon while flying his aeroplane. The stylish quality of the illustration is the principal characteristic that defines this aesthetically pleasing literary artefact. Told from a child’s perspective, and developed through the structural dualism of strangeness and familiarity, the work’s deceptively simple verbal and visual texts are an enchanting celebration of the transformative power of the imagination.
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| Titanic 2020 |
Colin Bateman
£5.99, Hodder Children’s Books
A futuristic tale that chronicles the adventures and discoveries of stowaway Jimmy Armstrong, aboard a new, and supposedly unsinkable, Titanic. Though it convincingly develops relationships between its central characters through episodes of humour and sadness, this well-conceived narrative is characterized, chiefly, by the adventurousness of the twists and turns in its plot, the subtlety of its cultural and literary references, and the innovative nature of its storytelling.
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| The Thing with Finn |
Tom Kelly
£5.99, Macmillan Children’s Books
The story of a young boy named Danny and his journey of self-discovery in the aftermath of the death of his twin-brother Finn. Cathartic and redemptive, this incredibly courageous narrative is told with such sensitivity that it manages to poignantly sustain pathos through moments of great humour. To journey through this layered narrative – in the company of a character who is sure to haunt the imagination long after the book has been read – is to recognise this unique publication as a modern classic. |
| The Last of The High Kings |
Kate Thompson
£12.99, The Bodley Head
A work of fantasy that centres on the choice Jenny, daughter of JJ Liddy, must make between a life in the world of humans and a life in the world of Tír na nÓg. Distinguished by the psychological depth of its characterization, its impressive use of dialogue, and – above all – the ease of its storytelling, this is fiction that not only explores the complexities of family life in an unsentimental and honest manner but also emphasizes the fact that fantasy, at its most accomplished, exists in a symbiotic relationship with reality. |
| Gaiscíoch na Beilte Uaine |
Caitríona Nic Sheáin
€19.00, An Snathaid Mhor
A retelling of an old Irish story about a warrior who, to prove himself a worthy suitor, must complete a number of trials. Although it enchantingly tells its story through a verbal text that poetically imbues the narrative with a magical atmosphere, it is the distinctive and quintessential character of the visual text that makes this picture book a beautiful work of art. This is a story that will continue to be retold as it is read and reread by both children and adults like. |
| The Black Book of Secrets |
F E Higgins
£5.99, Macmillan Children’s Books
A work that contains the dark secrets of the inhabitants of the remote village of Pagus Parvus. Subtly reminiscent and worthy of a writer like Dickens, this strikingly original and superbly plotted tale introduces readers to two of the most memorable literary protagonists of recent times, apprentice Ludlow Fitch and pawnbroker Joe Zabbidou. Grim but not pessimistic, this is uncommon storytelling, offering a liberating but hopeful exploration of the complexities of human nature.
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| The Alchemyst |
Michael Scott
£12.99, Doubleday Children’s Books
A fantasy adventure narrative that follows the destiny of 15-year-old twins, Josh and Sophie Newman, who are the subjects of an ancient prophesy. Of its kind but different, this flamboyantly stylish work succeeds in weaving a mesmerizing and energetic plot around a structurally impressive mythological framework. Although intertextually complex, it is a story whose vivid descriptions of worlds and events enable the fantasy and the realism to connect.
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| Genie Us! |
STEVE COLE & LINDA CHAPMAN
£5.99, Red Fox
When Milly and Michael’s mum and Jason and Jess’s dad marry and move them all to a new town the children all have one wish – to return to their old lives in London.
Imagine their amazement when they find a very old magic book with a talking bookworm who tells them they can learn to be a genie and fulfil their wish in six easy steps. These turn out to be not so easy — magic can be confusing and cause trouble when it goes wrong — and is the
bookworm keeping something from them? Things get really
scary when two mysterious strangers keep turning up — will the children have enough magic to save themselves? This is a pacy adventure story with plenty of laughs and magic. Large print and a few pictures to encourage readers on to longer novels. |
| Make It! |
JANE BULL
£7.99, DK Hb
Some things we throw away take a long time to degrade and cause a problem to the environment. Instead of being a nuisance, this book shows you how you can turn your waste into something amazing and have lots of fun at the same time. Turn paper into pots, boxes or wonderful papier mache objects; plastic into cushions, metal into works of art and fabric into bags and mats. There are loads more beautifully illustrated ideas as well as information about the waste itself. Be creative and help the planet at the same time! |
| Scarper Jack & the Bloodstained Room |
CHRISTOPHER RUSSELL
£5.99, Puffin
Having found a comfortable home with a chimney sweep and employed as his assistant, Jack is shocked when his
father, who had abandoned him, suddenly turns up to take him back. But this is only the first in a series of ever more disturbing events. He overhears two men plotting a murder he tries to prevent, then discovers a connection between
his father and the murdered man. Forging an unusual
friendship with a street urchin girl and a wealthy boy,
the three set out to solve the murder, having the advantage of knowing who one of the men behind it is
and a wide mix of skills and knowledge between them.
But things aren’t as straight forward as they thought.
Jack becomes a suspect and their investigation leads them into danger. This is an atmospheric story full of action and excitement with some really good plot twists that will keep you gripped to the end. Medium length novel for older readers. |
| The Fangs of the Dragon & other case files |
SIMON CHESHIRE
£5.99, Piccadilly
The return of Saxby Smart, schoolboy Private Detective with three more cases to solve. Following the clues to find treasure in the Horror House leads to some startling discoveries. He is also asked to find out how a valuable comic can go missing from a locked safe and why six members of the same class have seemingly had intruders in their houses with practically nothing being taken. Once again there is plenty of opportunity for you to get involved by finding and solving the clues as you go along. An enjoyable read with fair sized print and short chapters for
those gaining confidence in their reading and should encourage reluctant readers. |
| Jacky Daydream |
JACQUELINE WILSON
£5.99, Corgi Yearling
Everyone has heard of Jacqueline Wilson and most of us have read her books, but have you ever wondered
where she gets her ideas from and what made her become a writer? You can find out a lot more about her in this fascinating book as she recounts incidents from her childhood. It shows how different life was in the 1940s and 50s compared to today and how she has used events
and ideas from her childhood in many of her books. All told in her easy to read style with fairly large print and plenty of photos and illustrations. |
| My Sister Jodie |
JACQUELINE WILSON
£12.99, Doubleday Hb
Pearl adores her older sister, Jodie, but they aren’t very alike. While Jodie is outgoing, popular and rebellious, Pearl is shy and studious and relies heavily on her sister. Jodie is horrified when their parents get jobs at posh Melchester College meaning the family would live there and the girls
go to school there, but Pearl secretly likes the idea. They arrive during the summer holidays when only a few children are there. Surprisingly it is Pearl who feels most at ease and settles in quickly, even making new friends when term starts. Jodie doesn’t even try to get on with her peers seeming to go out of her way to antagonise people. The
tables are turning — could Jodie be the needy one and will Pearl realise how things have changed in time to avert a tragedy? This is another absorbing story that pulls the reader into the life and minds of the characters so you almost feel you are living it with them. An unputdownable read. Fair sized print to encourage readers onto full length novels. |
| Even Stevens |
MICHAEL ROSEN
£4.99, Barn Owl
Football mad Wayne’s dad plays for a pretty useless Saturday morning football team whose players were chosen because they all lived in even numbered houses of one street. For some unfathomable reason they become eligible to play in the FA Cup, and being short of players enlist Wayne to play for them. The long ball bouncing passes he has just mastered prove to be a decisive factor in the team’s win. With an astounding run of luck, which needs to be seen to be believed (and even then you may have trouble!) they keep winning through. Could they go all
the way? Anything is possible in this hilariously funny, mad story. Told in comic book style full of expressive illustrations it will encourage even the most reluctant of readers. |
| The Jammy Spider |
DAVID GALL (ILLUS. DOUGLAS STRACHAN)
£6.99, GW Publishing Hb,
Sam is not the sort of spider you would like to find in your
home. He is very cheeky and likes to have fun making
people jump, but one day his antics backfire and he lands
himself in a very sticky situation — literally! Covered in
strawberry jam he is in a dangerous predicament — is the
end in sight? You’ll have to read this very funny picture book
to find out! Written in large print in rhyme with just a couple
of sentences on each page it is great for beginner readers,
and will appeal to more capable ones as well. The striking,
gloriously colourful illustrations add so much. I just love the
faces Sam pulls! |
| Chips, Beans and Limousines |
LEILA RASHEED
£5.99, Usborne
Bathsheba Clarice de Trop lives a glamourous life which is hardly surprising as her mum is a famous author who has written a series of books about her. Bathsheba’s had some fantastic adventures saving the world 15 times and has two amazing friends and an even more amazing boyfriend — at least the girl in the books has, but who is the real Bathsheba? We begin to find out as we read her diary, which is what this book is, and realise she doesn’t know the answer herself. She mixes up the book girl with the real one because her real life is far from the perfect picture she likes to present. This is an absorbing, insightful read with a lot of ‘inbetween the lines’ information showing more of the the real girl than she knows herself. Meeting her dad and a possible real friend could start her on journey of self discovery if she lets it. First in a new series with
large print encourages newly confident readers onto medium length novels. |
| The Island |
ARMIN GREDER
£11.99, Allen & Unwin Hb
One morning the people on the island found a man who had washed ashore on a flimsy raft. He wasn’t like them. They didn’t know what to do, thought he wouldn’t fit in and wondered about sending him back to sea, but the fisherman said that would mean certain death. So they put him in a goat pen in the uninhabited part of the island, gave
him straw to sleep on and got on with their lives. They were soon made to realise that wasn’t enough — he had needs and couldn’t just be ignored, which caused them all sorts of worry and problems… of their own making… and changed their lives in a negativeway. This is a very powerful, thought-provoking picture book with emotive illustrations. The story is told in a deceptively simple way with an underlaying sense of fear of immigration, terrorism and being different and what it can lead to showing the dark side of human nature. It is not at all heavy handed and is so well written that all ages can get something from it and is a brilliant discussion starter. An amazingly well crafted book, I found it very moving. |
| The Lost Children of the Namuh and the Chamber of Souls |
David A Lindon
£6.99, Grosvenor House Publishing Ltd
It is a story about four children who’s parents die during the London blitz and are evacuated to Bournemouth to live with their Uncle Percy. Their Uncle is a headmaster who is not used to having children at home. He loved his brother dearly and he struggles to come to terms with his death. On the first evening in Bournemouth a stray German Aircraft drops a single bomb which destroys the headmasters home. Percy is thrown clear fearing the children are dead. Amazingly the four children are not dead but asleep! They have been transported by strange powers into a mysterious world of magic. An extraordinary world inhabited with extraordinary creatures. Four children fall asleep in their warm safe bed and wake in the mysterious land of Sunaru! A land inhabited with regal Navarra, colourful Nuahcerpels and even fluttering Yriafs. They soon discover they have a secret destiny, to defeat Lord Deogol and the evil Nilbogs. First they must venture into the underground labyrinth and search for the Chamber of Lost Souls. Will they have the courage to succeed? Can they complete the prophecy and return home or are they destined to be trapped in this strange world forever?
The once ordinary children have the future of this ancient world cradled in their young hands. With the help of some special friends and their own magical powers, the young children become the leaders of the rebellion and battle to be the guardians of Sunaru.
If you are interested in ordering contact
www.davidalindon.co.uk or Amazon |
| GLITTERWINGS ACADEMY 4: Fairy Dust |
Titania Woods
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Twink has completely settled in to the wonderful, great, oak tree that is Glitterwings Academy. She has two great friends — Bimi and Sooze. Bimi is quiet, thoughtful and supportive, and Sooze is full of energy, a little thoughtless and great fun! It is Sooze who persuades Twink to take some Fairy Dust to perform a prank on some of the other students, but it all goes horribly wrong ...
Glitterwings Academy is a lovingly created series by acclaimed author Lee Weatherly, writing as Titania Woods. Readers of the series can be assured of accomplished narrative, as well as stylish and exciting illustration.
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| GLITTERWINGS ACADEMY 3: Friends Forever |
Titania Woods
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Twink can't wait to get back for her Autumn Term at Glitterwings Academy. She loves the lessons — especially the lessons where they learn how to look after other creatures. One day Twink hears a cry for help and discovers that it is a baby wasp. She wants to help it, but is told that wasps and fairies have been enemies for centuries and that she must leave it to its fate. What will Twink do?
Glitterwings Academy is a lovingly created series by acclaimed author Lee Weatherly, writing as Titania Woods. Readers of the series can be assured of accomplished narrative, as well as stylish and exciting illustration.
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| GLITTERWINGS ACADEMY 2: Midnight Feast |
Titania Woods
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Twink can't wait to start her second term, the Summer term, at the fairy school, Glitterwings Academy. She loves the wonderful, huge oak tree that is Glitterwings Academy, and all the exciting new lessons. Best of all, she has made some new friends, Sooze and Bimi. But friendships can sometimes run into difficulty, as Twink is about to find out.
Glitterwings Academy is a lovingly created series by acclaimed author Lee Weatherly, writing as Titania Woods. Readers of the series can be assured of accomplished narrative, as well as stylish and exciting illustration.
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| GLITTERWINGS ACADEMY 1: Flying High |
Titania Woods
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Glitterwings Academy is the fairy school to go to, and Twink is so excited to be starting her first term. But she is also a little nervous. Will she make friends? Will she be able to find her way round the dizzying, huge oak tree that is Glitterwings Academy? And will she be able to pass the all-important test for new students — that of learning to fly?
Glitterwings Academy is a lovingly created series by acclaimed author Lee Weatherly, writing as Titania Woods. Readers of the series can be assured of accomplished narrative, as well as stylish and exciting illustration.
|
| Bonjour Alice |
Judi Curtin
€7.95, O'Brien Press
Ancient castles, yummy French food and deep, dark forests – sounds like the perfect holiday!
Megan’s really looking forward to the summer holidays – her whole family is going to France, and best of all Alice is coming too! But when Alice tries to make friends with a local French boy things begin to get very interesting …
Another adventure with Alice and Megan – the fifth book in the bestselling series popular with young girls everywhere - from the Irish Jacqueline Wilson.
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| Once Upon a Time in the North |
Philip Pullman
£9.99, David Fickling Books
When Lyra is studying at Oxford University, she comes across the story of Lee Scoresby and Iorek Byrnisson's first meeting, many years ago, along with much evidence of the adventure that brought them together.
When a young Texan balloonist, Lee Scoresby, comes down to earth in the harbour of an Arctic town in the North, little does he realise that he is about to be embroiled in an out-and-out political brawl.
Lee and his daemon, Hester, find themselves the target of political factions trying to take over the running (and oil) of the town. And also resident in the town are huge arctic bears, ignored and patronised by the people and treated like second-class citizens. When Lee and Iorek first meet, they cement a friendship that will continue throughout their lives, as the tensions and pressure in town lead to a deadly conclusion...
Another wonderful tale from a master story-teller, giving us more extraordinary insight into the world of His Dark Materials. |
| The Spook's Battle |
Joseph Delaney
£5.99, Random House
The fourth instalment of the Wardstone Chronicles. In Pendle the witches are rising and the three most powerful witch clans are rumoured to be uniting in order to conjure an unimaginable evil. Together they will be capable of raising the dark made flesh – the Devil himself.
Tom and the Spook need to set off for Pendle to avert the unthinkable. But before they go, the Spook tells Tom to journey home and collect the trunks Mam left behind for him. But what dark family secrets are contained in the trunks? And will they place Tom’s family in even greater danger or provide the help Tom and his master will need in Pendle?
For all you fans out there, this fourth instalment is a real treat. There are some truly dark and terrifying moments in it – as well as the hilarious fact that Tom’s got two witches fighting over him and he doesn’t even seem to realise. Yes, set in Pendle, that infamous witch district, this novel takes us into the dark world of the covens and clans. But as ever there are more revelations about the past to come out and in this book we learn a lot more about Mam!
Joe got the idea of the mirrors from a school visit he once did. One little girl told him that her family turn all their mirrors to the wall at night to stop evil spirits looking out. Joe loved the idea and has used brilliantly in this book. |
| Maximum Ride: The Final Warning |
James Patterson
£6.99, Random House Children's Books
Max, Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gazzy and Angel are six extraordinary kids created by the crazed Uber Director in a twisted laboratory experiment that left them with the ability to fly. They are back for another wild adventure as they try to save the world . . . and themselves.
The Uber-Director sees the group of friends as his opportunity to become a billionaire: he seizes his chance to cash in that lucrative price tag by planning a worldwide auction with the children being offered to the highest bidder. But first his mutant army must track them down and capture them – which won’t be easy.
Meanwhile, in hiding from their predators, all six of them wake one evening to find they are being given an important mission - to save the world from global warming. Led by heroine Max, their task takes them in a fast-paced, high-speed chase across the world to the South Pole but, as ever, danger is never far away . . .
www.jamespatterson.com
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| Bindi Babes |
Narinder Dhami
£4.99, Kids at Random House
Three feisty, fun-loving Anglo-Asian sisters rule the roost over their dad since their mum died. They've got a reputation at school for being the coolest, most sorted babes in town - and what they certainly DON'T need is an interfering Auntie-ji from India inviting herself over to England and cramping their style.
Which is exactly what their dad organises. The girls decide the only way out of this nagging-adult dilemma is an arranged marriage - for their auntie! Enter Mr Arora, the dream boat teacher who just might whisk Auntie off in his arms and into the sunset. (They hope!)
From the author of Bend It Like Beckham...
'A fresh voice and fun characters that girls will love' - Jacqueline Wilson |
| Princess Poppy: Ballet Dreams |
Janey Louise Jones
£3.99, Kids at Random House
Poppy and Honey are thrilled when Madam Angelwing starts advanced ballet classes. At first, Poppy loves the extra lessons, but soon gives them up when she begins to feel that ballet is taking over her life. Honey decides to stick with the classes as Madam has told her she's good enough to be a professional ballerina when she grows up.
Now, when Honey isn't at dance class she's either practicing ballet or reading about it – she just doesn't have any time for Poppy anymore.
Will Honey's ballet dreams come true? And will things ever be the same between Poppy and Honey?
The perfect story for ballet-mad girls - other titles include:
A True Princess
The Rescue Princess
The Fashion Princess
Pop Star Princess
Princess Poppy fans can also logo onto: www.princesspoppy.com |
| Revenge Files of Alistair Fury: The Kiss of Death |
James Rix
£4.99, Kids at Random House
Alistair Fury is out for revenge. No more running errands. No more being called 'Alice'! It's payback time for his embarrassing mum, his bone-idle dad, and his constantly teasing older brother and sister.
Only Alistair's two best friends - and this, his private diary - share his secrets. Culminating in a scene involving a snake, a toupee and a live TV broadcast, Alistair tries to wreak spectacular revenge but it doesn't exactly go according to plan . . .
In lively and accessible diary form, this is a story of family life at its funniest, packed with schoolboy humour. |
| Bare Bum Gang and the Football Face-Off |
Anthony McGowan
£4.99, Kids at Random House
It all started when Jennifer Eccles said she wanted to be in our gang. Until then we were just called the gang. The people in the gang were:
·Ludo, that’s me,
·Noah, my best friend, who we sometimes call Doc,
·Jamie,
·Phillip, usually known The Moan, because he was always moaning, and who has the bad luck to be the brother of Jennifer.
As well as names, we all have jobs in the gang. Of course I am the Gang Leader, which means they all have to do what I tell them, except quite often they don’t.
Join Ludo, Noah, Jamie and Phillip - the Bare Bum Gang - as they defend their gang headquarters with Smarties tube fart bombs and other ingenious traps. The gang’s new name is bad enough, but things are about to get much worse. Their number 1 enemies have challenged them to a football match, and the prize at stake is the gang den. And guess what – they’re all completely rubbish at football!
How can they save the den? How can they get back their pride?
Anthony McGowan is an author who is an absolute natural when it comes to humour. This is the first book in what promises to be an entertaining and very funny series for younger readers.
www.barebumgang.com |
| A Nest of Vipers |
Catherine Johnson
£5.99, Kids at Random House
Cato Hopkins is the youngest member of Mother Hopkins's 'family' - a group of skilled fraudsters and pickpockets. There's Addy, who can become a very convincing boy when she needs to; the beautiful Bella, who can charm any rich young man out of his fortune; Sam, an escaped slave and Cato himself, a young boy, who Mother Hopkins has taught everything she knows.
But old age is slowing Mother Hopkins down, and she wants to carry out one last con, a con to outdo all the cons that have gone before. And so the gang set about bringing ruin upon Captain Walker, a proud and cruel slave captain, who deserves to be taught a lesson or two . . .
This is a brilliant book set in a fascinating period of history. Start reading and be drawn into the sights, sounds and smells of street-life in eighteenth-century London. Catherine Johnson is a fantastic storyteller and co-screenwriter of the acclaimed 2004 film, Bullet Boy.
www.catherinejohnson.co.uk |
| Magic Tree House 4: Pirates' Treasure! |
Mary Pope Osborne
£3.99, Red Fox
Eight-year-old Jack and his little sister, Annie, are playing in the woods during their summer holiday, when they find a mysterious tree house full of books. But these are no ordinary books . . . And this is no ordinary tree house . . .
Jack and Annie are in a treasure trove full of trouble!
Stuck on a desert island, captured by the evil Captain Bones and his gang and a huge storm at sea . . . For a while, it looks like they might not get home safely after all. And they discover that their adventures are even more magical than they had first thought . . .
www.magictreehouse.co.uk
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| Magic Tree House 3: Secret of the Pyramid |
Mary Pope Osborne
£3.99, Red Fox
Eight-year-old Jack and his little sister, Annie, are playing in the woods during their summer holiday, when they find a mysterious tree house full of books. But these are no ordinary books . . . And this is no ordinary tree house . . .
When they're whisked away to ancient Egypt in the tree house, Jack and Annie learn how to read hieroglyphics with the help the ghostly Queen of the Nile.
But secret codes aren't the only puzzle they have to solve. How do they get out of the pyramid full of mummies? And there's still the problem of who all these magical books belong to. Who is this mysterious M?
www.magictreehouse.co.uk
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| Magic Tree House 2: Castle of Mystery |
Mary Pope Osborne
£3.99, Red Fox
Eight-year-old Jack and his little sister, Annie, are playing in the woods during their summer holiday, when they find a mysterious tree house full of books. But these are no ordinary books . . . And this is no ordinary tree house . . .
Jack and Annie find themselves on another adventure - this time they're in medieval England. It's exactly the same as the story book - there's a castle and a banquet and knights on horseback. But when they find themselves locked in a dungeon, Jack starts to wonder if they'll ever get home again . . .
www.magictreehouse.co.uk
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| Magic Tree House 5: Night of the Ninjas |
Mary Pope Osborne
£3.99, Red Fox
Eight-year-old Jack and his little sister, Annie, are playing in the woods during their summer holiday, when they find a mysterious tree house full of books. But these are no ordinary books . . . And this is no ordinary tree house . . .
Morgan le Fay - the owner of the Magic Tree House and all its mysterious books is missing and needs Jack and Annie's help! They follow her clues to Japan where they find themselves in the middle of a feud between Japanese ninja warriors and Samurai warlords. Will Jack and Annie find the tree house again? Or will they be caught up in a terrifying battle?
www.magictreehouse.co.uk
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| Magic Tree House 6: Adventure on the Amazon |
Mary Pope Osborne
£3.99, Red Fox
Eight-year-old Jack and his little sister, Annie, are playing in the woods when they find a mysterious tree house full of books. But these are no ordinary books . . . And this is no ordinary tree house . . .
Jack and Annie might be on their scariest adventure yet - on the Amazon river! There are army ants, jaguars and piranas, as well as vampire bats, snakes and even crocodiles! And they've still got to find another clue to help rescue Morgan, the owner of the Magic Tree House. For a while, Jack and Annie are worried that they might be stuck in the rain forest for ever . . . But the over-active monkey they meet turns out to be friendlier than they first thought!
www.magictreehouse.co.uk
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| Evil Weasel |
Hannah Shaw
£10.99, Random House Books
Weasel is evil. His mean schemes and cunning tricks have made him richer than you can possibly imagine. But they have also upset his friends. So when Weasel throws a big party to show off his amazing castle, fast car and money-filled swimming pool, none of his guests turn up!
Weasel is horrified to discover that he's bad at being a friend and sets out to put things right. But can he convince his friends that he’s truly sorry? And will he really learn the error of his ways and stop being evil altogether?
This brilliant debut picture book about Evil (but very appealing) Weasel is filled with witty visual details that will entertain children and grown-ups alike.
With her scratchy line, interesting perspectives and quirky characters, Hannah is definitely one to watch! |
| Dewdrop Babies: Sweetpea's Surprise |
Patricia MacCarthy
£4.99, Random House Books
One day, when looking after her flower, Rose discovers a caterpillar munching on one of the leaves. She’s very worried for her flower so she decides to go to Sweetpea for help. By the time she goes back to her flower, the caterpillar is gone and instead there's a hard shiny thing hanging from the leaf. Rose goes back to check on her flower every day for two weeks and on the 14th day she finds something magical . . .
Join her and find out what Sweetpea’s surprise is . . .
www.dewdropbabies.com
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| Littlest Dinosaur, The |
Michael Foreman
£5.99, Bloomsbury
A tiny Dinosaur is born to a family of rather huge dinosaurs and everyone is mystified about why it is so different. As the littlest Dinosaur grows, it feels left out and at odds with the world of its huge family, until one day its very size is the thing that rescues them all.
A charming tale featuring every toddlers favourite, dinosaurs with a sweetly told message about being happy being yourself.
March 2009: available in paperback
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| Bear In The Cave, The |
Michael Rosen
£6.99, Bloomsbury
A very happy bear hears the sounds of the city from his quiet home by the sea and decides to find out what city life is like. Buying the ticket and travelling on the train is all very exciting. And so is the city! But after a while the bear finds the city a little too noisy and a little too busy — and people are beginning to laugh at him. He feels very sad and alone, until four children find him and show him the way home, with much fun along the way.
A perfect book for reading aloud, with just the right amount of excitement before a wonderfully calming ending — just right for reading before bedtime!
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| Custardly Wart: Pirate (third class) |
Alan MacDonald
£4.99, Bloomsbury
Based on the dubious members of the Wart family tree, each History of Warts book focuses on the adventurous life and turbulent times of a different ‘Wart’ from pirate to gladiator as he (or she) experiences the peculiar misfortunes which befall all Warts throughout the centuries.
At the Dankmarsh School for poor orphans, the childen sleep four to a bed and exist on watery porridge. Teachers don’t last long, and so when a new one arrives they are intrigued, especially since he has an eyepatch a huge moustach and calls himself the Captain. Miss Scrubshaw interviews him for the post, though he and his cousin ‘Mr Mate’ seem most interested in the ancient map on her wall.
The Captain introduces new lessons: compass use, swordcraft and biscuit identification. On a school trip to visit the Black Barnacle, a ship owned by an 'old pal', the Captain gives Miss Scrubshaw the slip and it dawns on the children that the ship has cast off, and they are the new crew! Bound, they discover, for Doom Island and a perilous quest for hidden treasure, at the mercy of the Captain and his dastardly plan... |
| Ditherus Wart: (accidental) Gladiator |
Alan MacDonald
£4.99, Bloomsbury
Based on the dubious members of the Wart family tree, each History of Warts book focuses on the adventurous life and turbulent times of a different ‘Wart’ from pirate to gladiator as he (or she) experiences the peculiar misfortunes which befall all Warts throughout the centuries.
Book 1 is set in Roman times. Emperor Porcus Maximus is coming for dinner and so Ditherus and his faithful slave Punio are sent (by Ditherus’s mother) to market for supplies. But Ditherus is tempted into buying a sword from a mysterious peddler. Searched by centurion Marcus Furius when he gets home, Ditherus is thrown into prison when the sword is discovered and sentenced to death as a traitorous thief (with Punio). At the last minute Gutsus the gladiator arrives, looking to buy new recruits. Ditherus and Punio are taken to Gladiator School where the motto is ‘Death or Glory — but most likely Death’. If ever Ditherus needed a cunning plan, it’s now… |
| Katie: The Revolting Holiday |
Mary Hooper
£4.99, Bloomsbury
The fourth in a hilarious series of KATIE capers, from highly-acclaimed author Mary Hooper
Holidays are supposed to be fun, but a week in a holiday camp with Mrs Bayleaf? Torture! Out of desperation, Katie seeks refuge in the Kids’ Klub, where she meets a particularly irritating little madam called Antonia who can’t stop bragging about how her family win all the competitions.
Katie would love to wipe the smile off Antonia’s face. Perhaps Katie’s family, and even Mrs Bayleaf, might come in useful after all . . . Well, there’s nothing wrong with a bit of healthy competition, is there?
Suitable for seven to nine year olds. |
| Katie: The Revolting Baby |
Mary Hooper
£4.99, Bloomsbury
The third in a hilarious series of KATIE capers, from highly-acclaimed author Mary Hooper
Crumbs,’ Flicka said as soon as I opened the door. ‘Is that the baby?’ She stood back, aghast. ‘What’ve you done to her?’
Katie thought looking after her sister’s baby would be easy. But one tin of golden syrup, some scrambled egg, newspaper print, a hold load of boot polish, an earwig, half a caterpillar and a dirty log later, things look very different indeed. Baby Emily is not the only one in a bit of a mess . . .
Suitable for seven to nine year olds. |
| Skuduggery Pleasant: Playing with Fire |
Derek Landy
£12.99, Harper Collins
"You will kill her?" the Torment asked. Skulduggery sagged. "Yes." He hesitated, then took his gun from his jacket. "I'm sorry, Valkyrie," he said softly. "Don't talk to me," Valkyrie said. "Just do what you have to do." Valkyrie parted her tunic, and Skulduggery pointed the gun at the vest beneath. "Please forgive me," Skulduggery said, then aimed the gun at the girl and pulled the trigger.
With Serpine dead, the world is safe once more. At least, that’s what Valkyrie and Skulduggery think, until the notorious Baron Vengeous makes a bloody escape from prison, and dead bodies and vampires start showing up all over Ireland. With Baron Vengeous after the deadly armour of Lord Vile, and pretty much everyone out to kill Valkyrie, the daring detective duo face their biggest challenge yet. But what if the greatest threat to Valkyrie is just a little closer to home?
If you loved the first book, you will be able to put down this second instalment in the fantastic Skulduggery Pleasant series...
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| Roary the Racing Car |
Pocket Library
£4.99, Harper Collins
All your friends are here in this fun collection of six mini board books. Roary, Cici, Maxi, Big Chris, Flash and all the rest of the Silverhatch gang.
This mini library makes the perfect gift for any Roary fan and is little to hide in even Roary’s glove compartment!
Also available in the mini library slipcase range:
Paddington Pocket Library
Kung Fu Panda Pocket Library
Fifi and the Flowertots Pocket Library |
| Pony Club Secrets - Stardust and the Daredevil Ponies |
Stacy Gregg
£5.99, Harper Collins
Issie has landed her dream job – handling horses on a real film set! And with a group of frisky palominos to deal with, Issie asks her friends at pony club to help out too.
But it’s not just the horses who play up on set – what is spoilt actress Angelique’s problem? Could this be Issie’s chance for stardom...?
Join talented young rider, Issie, on another action-packed adventure from the Chevalier Point Pony Club.
The fourth gripping adventure in this exciting new pony-club series. With gymkhanas to win, rivals to defeat, mysteries to solve and ponies in danger to save – these books are perfect for all girls who love ponies. |
| Jimmy Coates: Survival |
Joe Craig
£5.99, Harper Collins
Jimmy Coates seems like an ordinary boy, but he's not. He's genetically engineered to grow into the perfect government assassin. Speed, strength and deadly instinct - it's all in his blood. He has to fight not to kill... while his government fights to kill him.
Can Jimmy save his family AND prevent a war? The choice is simple. The decision is deadly.
Fifth title and a stunning new look for Jimmy Coates - part boy, part weapon, totally deadly! |
| Mo's Mischief - Four Troublemakers |
Hongying Yang
£4.99, Harper Collins
Chinese boys can be Horrid too! Join in the fun as Mo-Shen Ma and his mischievous father run riot through school and home. There’s no trouble they can’t get into – or out of…
Meet Mo-Shen Ma and his three best friends! There’s Hippo, who’s grumpy and slow. Monkey, who never stops talking and is thin as a rake. And Penguin, who waddles just like a fat bird. In other words, this is the sorriest crew of naughty boys you’re ever likely to meet! But all the friends have special skills, and when disaster strikes, they become unlikely heroes…
Every book in the Mo’s Mischief series is packed with hilarious adventures – and a unique insight into modern Chinese life. |
| Happy Birthday, Blue Kangaroo! |
Emma Chichester Clark
£5.99, Harper Collins
It is Lily’s birthday and she decides to celebrate with a themed party, based on her favourite colour – pink. There will be pink balloons, pink presents, a pink cake, and even the guests will be asked to wear pink party outfits! Poor Blue Kangaroo worries that he is the wrong colour for Lily’s party…but what should he do? Would Lily really prefer him if he were a pink kangaroo? |
| Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy |
Jane O'Connor
£5.99, Harper Collins
Nancy is over the moon when her family decide to get a dog. She dreams of having a papillon - a small, delicate, fluffy dog - by her side. This will be the ultimate accessory!
But her family have other ideas. They want a plain dog. How unglamorous!
With Fancy Nancy’s trademark humour and warmth, Nancy discovers that true fanciness does not depend simply on appearance but more on a genuine joie de vivre, which is a very fancy phrase for having lots of fun!
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| Albert Le Blanc To The Rescue! |
Nick Butterworth
£5.99, Harper Collins
Albert le Blanc’s friend, Sally the toy hippo, has been bought by a little girl. Every day, they walk past the shop and Sally gives Albert a wink, as he sits in the window. Albert waves back and wonders if he will ever be chosen as a child’s best friend.
The, one day – disaster – Sally tumbles out of the girl’s rucksack and is snatched away by a stranger before anyone can stop them. Stuck inside the toy shop, not daring to move, it seems there is nothing Albert can do to help his friend…
Will there be a happy ending for Sally? And, will there ever be a happy new home for Albert?
The wonderful sequel to Albert le Blanc, from the highly-regarded creator of the Percy the Park Keeper books. |
| What I Was |
Meg Rossoff
£6.99, Penguin
I was at boarding school in East Anglia, my third.
I didn't want to be there. But if there had been no school, there would be no Finn. He lived in a hut on the coast. He was like the hut, in fact — it took a while for both of them to warm up. But that is all I longed for. Finn, warming to me. A nod. Half a smile. Asking me to help on the boat. Not asking me to leave. I didn't want it to end. Now I am waiting for the end, and looking back to the beginning.
Haunting, intense and with a surprising twist in the tale — this is unlike anything you will have read before . . .
Dark, brooding and mysterious,
this is the third utterly unique book from award-winning Meg Rosoff, author of How I Live Now and Just in Case.
Teenage fiction for readers over 12 years of age. |
| Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs: Missing Treasure! |
Giles Andreae and Russell Ayto
£5.99, Puffin
When Flinn first met the Pirate Dinosaurs, he thought that he had taught them a lesson. But the real lesson is this – never trust a pirate, but never ever trust a pirate dinosaur. This time, Flinn is hot on the trail of some stolen treasure and he knows exactly who's to blame. With the help of his friends and Captain Gurgleguts, fearless Flinn tracks the rotten crew to the Lost Island. So far, so good, but Flinn and his pals hadn't reckoned on the dinosaur's secret weapon – the Giganotosaurus, T-Rex's cousin and the biggest dino the world has ever known! Will our hero be able to sail out of trouble this time? And what about all that stolen treasure? Luckily, every baddie has a weak spot and it's not long before the swashbuckling Flinn fights his way to victory!
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| Magic Puppy - Party Dreams |
Sue Bentley
£3.99, Puffin Books
Storm is the only young wolf left from his family in the magic Moon-claw pack after the evil wolf, Shadow, wounds his mother and destroys everyone else. With the rest of the pack now scattered, Storm's mother is too weak to protect Storm so she sends him to our world as a magic puppy where his magical powers can grow. But Storm must find a friend here to help him hide from the evil Shadow.
Will Storm be able to hide long enough to eventually return and save his mother and the magical Moon-claw pack?
The fifth title in this brilliant new series that will leave eight to 12 year olds howling for more!
Other Magic Puppy titles include:
Muddy Paws
A New Beginning
Cloud Capers
Star of the Show
A Forest Charm
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| See How They Grow: Mouse |
Eye Openers
£2.99, Dorling Kindersley
Watch the mouse get bigger in fantastic photographs bursting with colour, and share easy-to-follow words ideal for reading out loud to the very young.
Plus, there are special mouse stickers for lots of interactive, furry fun! Read this together with your toddler and find out how a tiny pink baby grows into an adventurous young mouse.
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| Invasion |
June Crebbin
£3.99, Walker
It's 1066 and William, Duke of Normandy, has set sail for England to fight King Harold and claim the crown. Rollo must look after the Duke's horses in the biggest adventure of his life as they cross the Channel, fight in the Battle of Hastings and crown William the Conqueror King of England!
Take an exciting journey into history with this illustrated story for newly confident readers over seven years. |
| The Disgusting Adventures of Fleabag Monkeyface: King Pong |
Knife & Packer
£4.99, Walker
Fleabag Monkeyface is back – and he’s grosser than ever – in his second zany, comic adventure.
WARNING: GAS MASKS AT THE READY!
In his second hilarious cartoon adventure, Fleabag Monkeyface and his creators Gene and Gerald must save the world from filth, and their arch-rivals, the Smugleys.
When a toxic explosion turns super-clean Mr Smugley and his family into dirt-loving villains intent on ruling the world, the terrific trio are the only ones who can stop them. But is Fleabag’s Gross Out power enough to defeat the First Family of Filth and their ruler, King Pong?
• Cartoon illustrations and an anarchic plot – full of toxic tapeworms and Gross Out Power – give this inventive story a strong boy appeal.
• The foul-smelling sequel to The Disgusting Adventures
of Fleabag Monkeyface:When Earwax Attacks
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| Edwina: The Dinosaur Who Didn't Know She Was Extinct |
Mo Willems
£5.99, Walker
Everyone knows Edwina. She's the dinosaur who plays with the children and helps little old ladies across the road. She's the dinosaur who bakes chocolate-chip cookies! Everyone loves her ... except the class know-it-all Reginald Von Hoobie-Doobie. Reginald knows dinosaurs are extinct, and he is ready to prove it. But will anyone listen? And if they do, what will happen to Edwina?
Find out in this comical cartoon-style picture book for young children aged three years and over. |
| Knuffle Bunny Too |
Mo Willems
£6.99, Walker
Trixie can't wait to show off her one-of-a-kind Knuffle Bunny at school. But a dreadful surprise awaits E Trixie's bunny is not so one-of-a-kind after all! And matters get worse that night when Trixie realizes that she has brought home the WRONG BUNNY! A phone call later, Dad and Trixie are off on a desperate late-night mission to reclaim the real Knuffle Bunny!
A New York Times Children's Bestseller and a Caldecott Honor Book - the hilarious sequel to Knuffle Bunny.
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| Little Beauty |
Anthony Browne
£5.99, Walker Books
A very special gorilla is taught a very special skill: sign language. He appears to have everything he needs, but one day he signs that he is sad and needs a friend. His keepers bring him a tiny cat called Beauty and the two of them become inseparable. But when the gorilla gets angry and causes damage to the TV, will his keepers think him unfit to be friends with such a small, defenceless animal? Not if Beauty can think fast and prove what a special friendship they share...
The heart-warming tale of a gorilla and his tiny friend, from a master picturebook-maker. |
| Maisy's Nature Trail |
Lucy Cousins
£8.99, Walker
It's a perfect day for Maisy to go on a nature trail. Look! What pretty flowers! Crack! Crack! What's hatching out of the egg? And whose long ears are those? Butterflies, snails, frogs, bunnies ... turn the pages, pull the tabs and help Maisy spot all the wonderful plants and creatures on the nature trail!
Put on your wellies, head outside and let Maisy be your wildlife guide in this nature-themed novelty book. |
| Beware of the Frog |
William Bee
£10.99, Walker
Mrs Collywobbles has nothing to fear from the strange and fearsome visitors that emerge from the big, dark, scary wood not with her pet frog guarding the garden gate. Gobble! They don't hang around for long! But when Mrs Collywobbles' frog demands a thank-you kiss, things suddenly take a surprising turn...
A fantastic froggy fairy tale picture book from the creator of And the Train Goes... and Whatever. |
| Today I WIll Fly! - an Elephant & Piggie book |
Mo Willems
£4.99, Walker
Gerald is careful. Piggie is not. Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can. Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to. Gerald and Piggie are best friends. In Today I will Fly! Piggie wants to fly. But Gerald knows that she cannot or can she? Told entirely in speech bubbles with a repetitive use of familiar phrases, this highly original book is perfect for children just learning to read.
One of a series of delightfully humorous tales for beginner readers from the award-winning creator of Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!
Other Elephant & Piggie books available include:
There is a Bird on your Head!
I Am Invited to a Party!
My Friend Is Sad |
| Diary of a Tooth Fairy |
Alan Durant
£7.99, Walker
Pip has always wanted to be a tooth fairy and now she's going to training school to learn the tricks of the tooth fairy trade. There's a lot to get to grips with spells, map-reading and dentricals are just some of the skills she'll need. But it's fun too, and only when the exams are looming does Pip begin to get nervous. Luckily she passes her test with flying colours to become a fully-qualified Tooth Fairy (First Class). Dear Tooth Fairy sold out its entire first print-run in twelve weeks and was shortlisted for the Red House Children's Book Award.
Children aged six years and over will enjoy joining Pip on her mission to become a Tooth Fairy!
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| The Mysterious Edge of the Heroic World |
E.L.Konigsburg
£5.99, Walker
More than anything in the world, eleven-year-old Amedeo Kaplan wants to discover something a treasure that no one realizes is missing until he finds it. He also wants to discover a true friend he can share things with. When Amedeo and his mother move to Florida, Amedeo finds himself working on a house sale with another boy, William Wilcox, but the two don't get along. Mrs Zender's mansion is crammed with memorabilia of her long life, and there is a story to go with every item. The boys find themselves caught up in one particular story, dating back to Nazi Germany and Hitler's declaration that modern art was degenerate. Ultimately Amedeo does make a discovery an original sketch by Modigliani. Why was it hidden, and why would Mrs Zender be willing to sell something worth millions for only $5,000? Does she have a connection to the Nazi past?
Master storyteller and twice Newbery award winner E.L. Konigsburg once again creates an extraordinary story of adventure, insight and mystery for readers aged nine years plus. |
| The Goldsmith's Daughter |
Tanya Landman
£6.99, Walker
In the golden city of Tenochtitlan, Emperor Montezuma rules with an iron rod and people live in fear of the gods. Itacate, a girl born under an ill-fated sky, is destined for a life of submission and domestic drudgery. But when her father, a goldsmith, discovers her talent for his craft, she starts to work as his apprentice, a secret she must keep in order to protect the lives of herself and her family. But danger awaits as Spanish strangers invade the city. And when Itacate's work comes to the emperor's attention and she falls in love with a stranger, her life takes an even more perilous turn. Can Itacate change her destiny and survive in this harsh new world?
A young girl's struggle to change her destiny set against the destruction of the Aztec empire. Suitable for readers aged 12 years and over. |
| Warrior King |
Sue Purkiss
£4.99, Walker
The year is 878 AD. The English kingdoms of Northumbria, Mercia, East Anglia and Kent have fallen to the Vikings. Only Wessex is left, and its king, Alfred, has been driven into hiding on Athelney, the ancient Island of Princes. How can he, along with his daughter, Fleda, and his closest followers, defeat the dreaded Vikings?
From childhood to greatness: the powerful story of Alfred, king and hero of the Dark Ages - for readers aged nine years plus. |
| Snakehead |
Anthony Horowitz
£6.99, Walker
Splashing down off the coast of Australia, Alex is soon working undercover this time for ASIS, the Australian Secret Service on a mission to infiltrate the criminal underworld of South-East Asia: the ruthless world of the Snakehead. Faced with an old enemy and troubled by his own past, Alex is caught between two secret services, with no one to trust and this time he needs all his wits to survive...
Undercover in a poisonous world, teen spy Alex Rider is back for his seventh adrenalin-rush adventure!
Paperback version has a bonus extra chapter! Suitable for young readers aged nine years and over. |
| Divided Loyalties |
Dennis Hamley
£6.99, Walker
War has once again come to Europe. Ellen, now married to a German and with a family of her own, must once again face terror and prejudice as World War II rages. Ellen is married to Matthias with three children angry, rebellious Walter, clever Paul and quiet, talented Anna. When war is declared on Germany, the three children all play their roles: Walter joins the RAF, Paul works for British Intelligence and, as the painful and lengthy war draws to a close, Anna meets a young Polish musician. Their German cousin, Helmut, is also fighting for the opposition. When her husband is sent to an internment camp, Ellen must fight to keep her life together. In the face of separation and tragedy, can she succeed in uniting her divided family?
As World War II begins, a young mother must fight against prejudice to keep her family together in this heartbreaking novel, sequel to the World War I-set Ellen's People.
Teenage fiction for 12 years and over. |
| Bloodline |
Katy Moran
£6.99, Walker
Set in Dark Ages Britain, this is the powerful story of Essa, whose father Cai, a travelling bard and occasional spy, leaves him behind one night at a settlement of the Wolf Clan. Essa is a survivor and forges new allegiances and even love, but never stops wondering why his father never came back. The settlement is under threat from cruel Mercian bands across the forests, and Essa is caught up in a heart-stopping journey to avert disaster. A battle is inevitable, but Essa finds he can influence its outcome in a way nobody but his father would understand...
Warring kingdoms, bloody feuds and a battle for survival... Step back into the Dark Ages with this riveting, epic adventure from a debut writer, for readers aged nine years plus. |
| Toby Alone |
Timothee de Fombelle
£9.99, Walker
Toby Lolness is just one and a half millimetres tall, and he's the most wanted person in his world, the great oak Tree. When Toby's father makes a ground-breaking discovery, tapping into the very heart of the Tree's energy, he also realises that exploiting it could do permanent damage to their world. Refusing to reveal the secret of his invention to an enraged community, the family is exiled. But one man is determined to get hold of the forbidden knowledge ... and his plan is to destroy the Tree. Now Toby's parents have been imprisoned and sentenced to death. Only Toby has managed to escape, but for how long?
An awards-laden adventure of heroism, friendship and survival with a powerful ecological message set in a captivating miniature world, for readers aged nine years plus. |
| The Ghost's Child |
Sonya Hartnett
£6.99, Walker
This magical story, told in the elevated tone of a fable, begins with a visit by a teenage boy to the home of 75-year-old Matilda. She tells him the story of her life with Feather, a man who lived by the sea and had a great affinity for birds and wild creatures. She speaks of her love for him and how, long ago, she had become pregnant but miscarried, and he left her. Her grief was inconsolable for a very long time and she longed to find Feather to ask him, "How can you know love, and lose it, and go on living without it, and not feel the loss for ever?" She eventually finds Feather and he answers her question, and in doing so helps her to deal with her overwhelming loss.
A novel that explores the many varieties of love, by one of the very best contemporary writers for readers aged 12 years plus. |
| The Knife of Never Letting Go |
Patrick Ness
£12.99, Walker
Imagine you're the only boy in a town of men. And you can hear everything they think. And THEY can hear everything YOU think. Imagine you don't fit in with their plans... Todd Hewitt is just one month away from the birthday that will make him a man. But his town has been keeping secrets from him. Secrets that are going to force him to run...
An unflinching novel about the impossible choices of growing up, by an award-winning writer for readers aged 12 years plus. |
| Top Trumps Marvel Heroes |
Tom O’Malley
£4.99, Haynes
Visit the Fantastic Marvel Heroes in this latest Top Trumps Book!
Marvel Comics has joined Haynes and Top Trumps to create another exciting addition to the series of Top Trumps books! This fantastic series is based on the best-selling card game and provides detailed background information as well as all the facts and figures you come to expect from the original cards.
This pocket-sized guide will keep both kids and grown-ups quiet for hours. It is packed with fascinating facts and descriptions of 45 key characters from the Marvel Universe – Heroes and Villains alike. It is all beautifully illustrated using Marvel’s stunning, instantly recognisable artwork.
Included in colourful detail are:
Classic Heroes:
Spider-Man ▪ Daredevil ▪ Captain America ▪ Human Torch
Diabolical Villains:
Green Goblin ▪ Doctor Doom ▪ Doctor Octopus ▪ Venom
Marvellous Mutants:
Wolverine ▪ Colossus ▪ Storm ▪ Magneto
Marvel’s Mightiest:
Hulk ▪ The Thing ▪ Thor ▪ Galactus
Author, Tom O’Malley has been communicating all things Marvel to a young audience for five years. He was the Editor of Spectacular Spider-Man Magazine, launched and edited Marvel RAMPAGE, Marvel’s first lifestyle magazine. He has also authored several Marvel books including Fantastic Four Movie Annual, X-Men: The Last Stand Annual 2007 and Spider-Man 3 Annual.
For your chance to win a copy of this great book visit our National Competition Page (http://www.primarytimes.net/competitions.php) |
| Seventh Tower - The Fall |
Garth Nix
£5.99, Harper Collins
First of a thrilling fantasy adventure series set on the Dark World, where society is ranked according to its colour clan and the most precious commodity is light. In all the world there is only one place that ever sees the sun. A seven-towered castle built upon a mountain high above the desolate ice lands below.
Tal is getting ready for the Day of Ascension – a day when all the 13-year-old Chosen from the Castle of Seven Towers enter the spirit world of Aenir. Then his father disappears with the family's Primary Sunstone. Without it, Tal cannot enter Aenir and bind himself to a Spiritshadow – a guardian being, both protector and friend. Tal tries to steal a Sunstone, but during his act of thievery is thrown off the Castle of Seven Towers by a powerful Spiritshadow Keeper. He falls down to the iceworld below, where he is captured by Icecarls. To save his life, he must team up with Milla – a Shield-Maiden-in-training – and offer his aid to the nomads. Which complicates his task immeasurably…
For readers aged nine to 12 years. |
| Knight Time |
Jane Clarke and Jane Massey
£6.99, Red Fox
Every night, when their daddies tuck them in, Little Knight dreams of fierce knight-eating dragons and Little Dragon dreams of dangerous dragon-slaying knights.
But one dark, stormy night, their two worlds collide and Little Dragon and Little Knight discover that they both have teddy bears and cuddly blankets – and they’re not scary at all!
Simple language and powerful imagery shows up the nature of mistaken prejudices. The result is a reassuring bed-time book with a difference.
Now children will be able to enjoy this wonderful tale again and again with this brilliant CD featuring music and sound effects!
(Duration of audio CD:10 minutes) |
| Wonderful Wriggly Worm Rides Again! |
Eugenie Summerfield
£11.99, Book Guild
Gloucestershire-based Eugenie Summerfield’s latest account of the adventures of Wriggly Worm takes the tiny hero on a number of mini adventures. Helping snails who’ve got stuck, slugs who should know better and all manner of insects that constantly need the advice and skills of the kindly invertibrate. Wriggly Worm became famous through Listen With Mother on the wireless, and there is something slightly archaic about the style. Essentially Wriggly Worm and his friends are a metaphor for children. Wriggly is the sensible child who other kids ask for help when they’ve got stuck, fallen over or are lost in an adult world. With line illustrations of the various characters, the stories arre just long enough for children and short enough for their parents at bedtime. |
| The Book of a Thousand Days |
Shannon Hale
£10.99, Bloomsbury
Aimed at young teens or mature readers in primary schools, this is well written and gripping. Set in a fantasy world which seems a bit like central Asia, the story concerns Dashti, a humble servant girl who is locked in a tower for seven years with her mistress, Lady Saren. It quickly emerges that Dashti is the sensible one who will eventually set them free. |
| Split by a Kiss |
Luisa Plaja
£5.99, Corgi
Older primary school girls may enjoy this account of desperate Jo’s romantic adventures in an American high school. Moved from her dull routine in England when her mum gets a new job in the USA, Jo is transformed from school swot to teen goddess when she hitches up with the ‘in’ crowd. The style needed more modern cultural references to be believable, and the character of Jo is too self-obcessed to be truely loved. It was still fun, desplite these shortcomings. |
| Spend a Day on the Farm |
Jane Yorke, Matthew D. Schofield, and Sarah Davis
£7.99, DK
Includes a DVD. A great first introduction to farms for very young readers. It has a flavour of a young Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall about it as everything is so perfect in the traidtional farm sense with cuddly duckling and animals that look happy. There’s none of the unpleasant aspect of the industry such as dung, dirt and disease. Even so, it’s educational and instructive - and being DK - beautifully presented.
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| Aunt Nancy and the Bothersome Visitors |
Phyllis Root
£3.99, Walker Books
Written in a brand of colloquail American, this is a short novel for young but confident readers due to its unusual use of English. Funny, quirky and full of dark humour, it’s filled with David Parkins adorably grim illustrations. |
| Brother Bother |
HELEN ORME
£4.99, Ransom,
Sita knows something is very wrong when she finds her brother with a new MP3 player that he couldn’t have afforded to buy. Hearing how he has been bullied into stealing it she knows it has to go back, and if he won’t take
it, she will. Things go horribly wrong at the shop landing Sita in real trouble. See how it is all resolved in this involving story, one of a series about Sita and her ‘sisters’. They are all short books with large print and lots of pictures but with storylines of interest to older juniors to encourage reluctant or struggling readers |
| No Place for Magic |
E. D. BAKER
£5.99, BLOOMSBURY,
The fourth book in the series is now out. Having sorted out her own family’s problems Emma, now the Green Witch, finds Eadric’s family has plenty of their own. The trouble is his mother doesn’t like magic, so Emma has to try and sort everything out without using her powers. These are very funny adventure stories full of strongly defined characters who do not conform to stereotypes. Fair sized print, medium length novels. |
| The Field Guide |
TONY DITERLIZZI & HOLLY BLACK
£4.99, Simon & Schuster
First in the Spiderwick Chronicles that have now been made into a film. Jared, Simon and Mallory aren’t very impressed with Aunt Lucinda’s house when they move in. It is old and ramshackled and makes strange noises. Their aunt had been taken to a home because she was crazy, talking about little men and refusing to eat. The discovery of a secret room full of their great uncle’s books including his ‘Field Guide to the Fantastic World Around You’ changes
their minds about the house and their aunt. Weird events convince them of the existence of a boggart in the house and it soon becomes clear the book could lead them into big trouble, with more than one kind of creature after it. This is the first in a series of five compelling stories charting the children’s ever more dangerous progress discovering the world of magical creatures around them and the secret of their family’s past. Fair sized print and quite a few pictures for those beginning to gain confidence, but exciting stories that will appeal to all ages and abilities. |
| The Difficult Job of Keeping Time |
DYAN SHELDON
£5.99, Walker,
Trish and Kiki are two lonely children with fears to conquer who form an unlikely friendship after they meet Betty Friedman. She is an old lady who helps them out of a difficult situation and then asks for their help to save an old church and its buried treasure, explaining she is a Time Keeper. Down to earth Trish doesn’t believe in magic or time travel but they soon find themselves back in Victorian London as servants in a big house using all their ingenuity and bravery to outsmart men from both times and retrieve some important papers. It is a real race against time, fraught with danger in this fast moving, gripping tale. Fair sized print to encourage readers on to full length novels. |
| Tales of the Frog Princess |
E. D. BAKER
£7.99, BLOOMSBURY
The first three stories in this series in one book. Kissing a frog isn’t very appealing, so if you are a princess and a frog asks for a kiss to turn him back into a prince you may want to make sure he really is an enchanted prince before you oblige. Although not a conventional princess (she is practising to be a witch like her aunt), Emma does this, but other factors get in the way and it all backfires, as the title suggests. She has to find a way to reverse the new spell, which turns out to be far from easy. As the stories progress her magical powers gain strength and she tries to end a family curse and find happiness for her family while forming a strong relationship with Eadric. |
| Pulse |
ANNABELLE STARR
£4.90, Egmont
Latest in the ‘Megastar Mysteries’ series. Rosie and friends
are thrilled when they get the part of extras in a film being
made in their school. Even the presence of a ‘teacher’s pet’
and boring teacher can’t dent their enthusiasm. Then a
mistakenly taken call on the director’s phone starts off Rosie’s detective radar. Is there more to the filming than meets the eye? Her detective mad Gran thinks so and soon more odd events grab their attention. Will Rosie solve yet another mystery? What do you think! Another intriguing story to keep you guessing in this action packed, likable series. New fans will be delighted to know they have nine others to catch up on! Fair sized print, medium length novel |
| Mr Wolf’s Pancakes |
JAN FEARNLEY
£7.99, Egmont
When Mr Wolf decides to make pancakes he has a few
obstacles to overcome. He has never made them before,
doesn’t know what goes in them and isn’t good at cooking. He also has trouble reading, writing and counting so he asks several neighbours to help him, but none will and are very rude to him. Despite everything, Wolf manages to make the pancakes and the delicious smell brings all his neighbours round. Could this be the start of some new friendships? There could be surprises for everyone in this very funny picture book. With a few sentences on each page it is great for those just beginning to gain confidence aided by a CD with the story, games and songs. But it should appeal to all ages and abilities. |
| Fearless Dave |
BOB WILSON
£6.99, Frances Lincoln
“In the days of old the story’s told, of a knight both bold and brave. He was strong and true, (and humble too) and his name was Fearless Dave.” So begins the tour guide’s tour as he recounts the official version of how Dave rescues
Princess Peach. You may be more interested in the contrasting, hilarious true story revealed in this graphic novel. Dave isn’t the brightest boy you’ve ever met, but luckily his mum and the princess more than make up for this and determine to make him a hero despite his efforts! The comic strip format will appeal to beginner readers or those who are struggling, but it is a wonderful book for all ages and abilities. I chuckle out loud everytime I read it! |
| Dogfight |
CRAIG SIMPSON
£5.99, Corgi
In 1939, just as World War II is getting underway, Finn Gunnerson’s father, a Norwegian pilot, leaves the family to join the English Air Force. His family don’t understand why he does this as Norway is neutral, but his reasons become clear when Germany invades and occupies Norway. Finn's
family is determined to do all they can to oppose their German captors and help the resistance. This is obviously extremely dangerous as Finn discovers when he is temporarily imprisoned. He is determined to carry on and make his father proud of him. As he becomes more involved in the movement it is obvious there is a leak, someone is betraying them, and it seems as if there are allies in unlikely places. Full of secret and double agents this exciting, atmospheric story never loses pace and has many breathtaking moments that will have you on the edge of your seat — not for the faint-hearted! Full length novel for older, capable readers and first in a new series. |
| Call of the Wild, The |
Jack London
£5.99, Puffin
Life is good for Buck in Santa Clara Valley, where he spends his days eating and sleeping in the golden sunshine. But one day a treacherous act of betrayal leads to his kidnap, and he is forced into a life of toil and danger. Dragged away to be a sledge dog in the harsh and freezing cold Yukon, Buck must fight for his survivial. Can he rise above his enemies and become the master of his realm once again?
With an inspirational introduction by award-winning author Melvyn Burgess, The Call of the Wild is one of the twelve wonderful classic stories being relaunched in Puffin Classics to celebrate Puffin's dedication to publishing the most innovative and imaginative children's literature for generations of eight to 12 year olds.
Other titles in the classic stories range include:
Little Women
Wizard of Oz
Wind in the Willows
Tom Sawyer
Black Beauty
Just So Stories
A Little Princess
Journey to the Centre of the Earth
The Secret Garden
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Oliver Twist
King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table
Treasure Island
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland |
| Anne of Green Gables |
L.M. Montgomery
£9.99, Puffin
Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert are in for a big surprise. they are waiting for an orphan boy to help with the work at Green Gables – but a skinny, red-haired girl turns up instead. Feisty and full of spirit, Anne Shirley charms her way into the Cuthberts' affection with her vivid imagination and constant chatter.
It's not long before Anne finds herself in trouble, but soon it becomes impossible for the Cuthberts to imagine life without 'their' Anne – and for the people of Avonlea to recall what it was like before this wildly creative little girl whirled into town.
As inspiring today as it was in 1908, this beautiful centenary edition of Anne of Green Gables remains a testament to the powers of hope, friendship and imagination.
Also available: Before Green Gables |
| There's an Ouch in my Pouch! |
Jeanne Willis
£5.99, Puffin
Willaby Wallaby is not happy. There's an ouch in the pouch and it's making him grouch! So off he hops to the Blue Billabong to find a new home. Mummy Wombat and Mummy Possum can't help, but the Billabong becomes scary when Willaby bumps into Ma Dingo. You and I know that a dingo has no pouch, but Ma Dingo is as cunning as a fox... run for your life, little Willaby, run!
Willaby bounces back to his mum, but when he learns that the ouch is just his new little sister, he realises that maybe he doesn't need a pouch after all. He's a big boy now and likes being free to do bounces and hops!
A truly entertaining story about toddler behaviour and the discovery of independence - for three to five year olds.
|
| I, Nigel Dorking |
Mary-Anne Fahey
£5.99, Puffin
Nigel Dorking is getting that out-of-control feeling. But he can put things right. All he has to do is break Mum and her new boyfriend Gordon up, break Dad and Babette up, put Babette's twins in an orphanage and find a good home for their dog. Oh, and cure his brother Ivan – that is if Ivan isn't faking it.
Armed with courage, the Knights' Code of Chivalry, an abundance of interesting facts and his goldfish, Nigel will reunite his REAL family and then he, Nigel Dorking, will have achieved his Holy Grail. An autobiography about an unusual boy with a suit of armour, an unshakeable dream and a most unusual vocabulary.
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| Sky Wolves |
Livi Michael
£5.99, Puffin
When Sam's aunt rescues a lost dog, Sam knows that something incredible is going to happen. Jenny the Jack Russell may be a stray, but she is no ordinary dog. Jenny is more special than Sam could ever imagine.
But Jenny is in danger, and now Sam, Jenny and a gang of fellow runaways face an extraordinary journey. The sky wolves are on their trail, and they won't stop until the rest of the world is destroyed.
A gorgeously written, mystical adventure that will appeal to fantasy and animal fans alike from 9 years upwards.
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| Anila's Journey |
Mary Finn
£6.99, Walker Books
An advert in the Calcutta Gazette is looking for an apprentice draughtsman to accompany a scholar on an expedition to record avian life in Bengal. How can Anila Tandy, left to fend for herself in a city of rogues, dare to apply for a position that is clearly not meant for her? But the talented 'Bird Girl of Calcutta' has never shrunk from a challenge. And perhaps this voyage up the Ganges might be just the thing to equip Anila in her search for her father, missing for years and presumed dead.
Menace and mystery lie in wait on a young girl's courageous journey of discovery in this powerful work of historical literary fiction for readers aged 12 years plus.
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| Up On The Hill - Stories about children in the country |
Nicola Davies
£4.99, Walker Books
All three stories in this collection deal with young children at a crisis in their lives. Maxy's mum is pregnant and has been taken into hospital with complications; Rose's family life has suddenly become difficult and different and she blames herself; and Lolly's mother has died and she and her grandparents are finding life very hard. Despite their difficulties, all three children eventually find strength and confidence through caring for animals on their farms.
A collection of three stories of childhood in the countryside, from the acclaimed author of Poo and the novel Home. For readers aged seven years plus. |
| Difficult Job of Keeping Time, The |
Dyan Sheldon
£4.99, Walker Books
Trish is scared of her mother's rages while timid Kiki is scared of the teen gang who terrorize the inner-city estate where they live. In their different ways, they both feel helpless and alone. But then they meet the mysterious Betty Friedman, an old lady with a secret to protect. Before they know it, Trish and Kiki are plunged into a time-travelling quest to save a historic church and the buried treasure beneath it. Going undercover as servants in Victorian London, their cunning and bravery are put to the test, and they learn that they are more courageous than they could ever have imagined...
A thrilling time-travel adventure in which two children have to go to the past to save the future - and to overcome their fears. For children aged nine years plus.
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| Mummy Do You Love Me? |
Jeanne Willis
£10.99, Walker Books
Sometimes Little Chick is naughty and sometimes Little Chick is sad. But no matter what he says or does - from jumping in muddy puddles to coming last in the race - his mummy always loves him. And that's the most important thing of all!
Little Chick learns that no matter what he does, Mummy will always love him in this sweet, tender tale for two year olds. |
| Guess How Much I Love You in the Spring |
Sam McBratney
£4.99, Walker Books
It's spring and Little Nutbrown Hare learns how things grow - a tadpole into a frog, a shoot into a big tree. And if everything grows and changes, can Little Nutbrown Hare guess what he might grow into one day?
The adorable hares from the classic Guess How Much I Love You are back in an enchanting spring-themed board book for children aged two years plus.
Also available: Guess How Much I Love You in the Summer. |
| Triskellion |
Will Peterson
£6.99, Walker Books
Rachel and Adam are sent to stay with their grandmother, following their parents' divorce. But the quiet English village is a sinister, unsettling place. Is there a dark heart beating beneath the thatched roofs of Triskellion? It is a place protected by an ancient, three-bladed artefact; a village where crops never fail and where the war memorial is blank; a community with much to protect. With the help of the mysterious Gabriel, Rachel and Adam begin to unearth centuries-old secrets and make a shocking revelation about their family's past - and their own future...
The first extraordinary novel in a new trilogy, combining nail-biting suspense, gripping mystery and archaeological adventure with a paranormal twist for ages nine years plus. |
| Clemence and His Noisy Little Fire Engine |
Jessica Spanyol
£4.99, Walker Books
Watch out! MiniBugs about! One in a series of energetic, noisy tales about the MiniBugs' crash-bang vehicle antics.
Come and meet a brave, green MiniBug called Clemence. He likes playing Super Stunt and Hose Down in his noisy little fire engine. Clemence is little but he is also very brave. Ne Nah! Ne Nah! When Stacie and her kite are stuck in a tree, Clemence climbs the fire engine's ladder and rescues her.
Toddlers will adore these collectable picture books, packed full of read-aloud noises, as well as fun, detailed drawings of the MiniBugs' machines - perfect for transport-mad tots!
Other titles available in the series include:
Bob and His No. 1 Van
Giorgio and His Star Crane Train
Keith and His Super Stunt Rally Racer |
| All Pigs Are Beautiful |
Dick King-Smith
£6.99, Walker Books
It's true what they say: pigs are beautiful! Curious young minds will love learning about their habits in this picture book which combines story with information, from a well-loved author and the illustrator of the bestselling Guess How Much I Love You. Previously part of the acclaimed Read and Wonder series, All Pigs are Beautiful has been re-launched in the new Nature Storybooks series with a brand new look and accompanying CD with fun facts, songs, sound effects and a story reading by TV actor Stephen Tompkinson.
Other books in the Nature Story Books include:
Growing Frogs by Vivian French
One Tiny Turtle by Nicola Davies
Think of an Eel by Karen Wallace |
| Molly and the Night Monster |
Chris Wormell
£10.99, Random House Books
When Molly wakes up in the middle of the night, she hears the sound of a step on the stairs. It could be a crocodile creeping up to catch her . . . Or a giant giraffe outside on the landing . . . Or an enormous elephant turning the doorknob and opening the door . . . Or even a night monster come to gobble her up . . .
But when Molly surprises the tiptoeing beast, she gets an even bigger surprise of her own!
This simple, soothing bedtime story is sure to dispel fears of the dark and monsters under the bed and is perfect for lulling little ones to sleep. Chris's distinctive, atmospheric new artwork style and velvety night-time blues give the book a soft, dreamy feel. |
| Sadie the Airmail Pilot |
Kellie Strom
£5.99, Picture Corgi
Once upon a time a few brave pilots in little planes flew the Air Mail.
No wind, no rain, no cold or flu,
Can stop the Air Mail getting through!
Sadie the Air Mail Pilot is the story of one brave and fearless pilot who overcomes all the elements, terrible conditions and even a plane crash to deliver the mail! Like all the dedicated Air Mail pilots, Sadie is kept busy by the arrival of never-ending sacks of mail and the Air Mail HQ chief who barks orders at his staff.
Kellie Strøm was born in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1967. He was raised in the woods of Co. Kilkenny, Ireland. He made his first attempt at creating a picture book before he could write, drawing a story on a large roll of newsprint, with spaces for text. Unfortunately by the time he learned to write, he could no longer remember what the story was about!
As an adult he managed to avoid real work and lived by drawing illustrations for newspapers and magazines in Ireland, Denmark and the UK. Despite diversions into the fields of film and animation design, he found his way back home to picture books, and this time he has succeeded in finishing one. At last!
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| Katie Morag and the Dancing Class |
Mairi Hedderwick
£5.99, Red Fox
This is the next brilliant adventure in the hugely successful series! Katie Morag has to go to ballet class. She has to wear a frilly frou-frou skirt and pink ballet pumps, instead of her favourite wellies! Katie Morag is not impressed - she has better things to do on a Saturday morning. But the Grandmothers have decided - she must go to ballet. There's nothing she can do . . . or is there?
The perfect story for feisty little girls everywhere - especially the ones who don't like ballet!
Also available in the Katie Morag series:
Katie Morag and the Wedding
Katie Morag and the Birthdays
Katie Morag and the Tiresome Ted |
| Princess Poppy: Playground Princess |
Janey Louise Jones
£4.99, Picture Corgi
A brand-new story in the best-selling Princess Poppy series!
Poppy and Honey play together every break time until the day when Poppy decides to join the Blossom Tree Club. She simply can’t wait to be one of the gang but Honey is not so keen, she is perfectly happy playing fairy princesses with Poppy.
Things soon go wrong when the club members start picking on Honey and when they not only break the blossom tree but smash the school green house during Poppy's induction into the club.
Find out what happens to the bullies and whether Poppy will be brave enough to stand up for her best friend? |
| Bansi O'Hara and the Bloodline Prohphecy |
John Dougherty
£5.99, Corgi Yearling
Bansi O'Hara is visiting her granny in Ireland, when very strange things start to happen. First there is the swan that seems to be following them from the ferry, then the strange little man who appears in her bedroom and says he's a brownie called Pogo.
Things get even stranger when Bansi finds out that her birth fulfilled an ancient prophecy from Tir na n'Og, the land of the faeries, and that the wicked Lord of the Dark Sidhe wants to spill her blood on faery soil.
Bansi, Pogo and Tam, a handsome faery who can change into animal form, cross through the gate that separates the two worlds to try and make the prophecy come true for the good faery peoples. But the Dark Lord is waiting for them . . .
John Dougherty is a master of funny stories for young readers and this latest novel is no exception. It's a romp through Irish myth and magic, with two mad grannies, a helpful little brownie (the fairy type!), a feisty heroine and an ancient prophecy thrown in for good measure. This will delight young readers and make adults laugh aloud too. A great book for reading together or for confident readers to tackle alone. |
| Butterfingers |
J.M. Trewellard
£4.99, Corgi
Princess Bella has been snatched from her secret garden by a terrifying monster, leaving behind nothing but a glittering golden ball! Not even the bravest knights in the kingdom can save her from the huge, dark, fire-breathing creature with enormous wings, a great swishing tail and deadly claws. But clumsy Ned the stable boy is determined to succeed where the gallant knights have failed.
Can he defeat the dragon and get the girl? Or will he let the chance to become a hero slip through his butterfingers? Join our unlikely hero and his animal friends on their daring quest across the plain, through the woods and into the mountains to find out . . .
Stories of this quality are very rare, and it is even rarer that the story should be the very first ever published by the writer. We think Butterfingers is very special. Perhaps it’s even a classic. So pick it up, and whatever you do, don't drop it! |
| Secrets |
Jacqueline Wilson
£5.99, Kids at Random House
India lives in a large, luxurious house with a mum she can't stand and a dad she adores, though he hasn't had much time for her recently. She seeks solace in her journal, which she keeps in sincere imitation of her heroine, Anne Frank. Treasure lives on the local council estate with her loving and capable grandmother. She is devoted to her nan but lives in fear of having to go back to live with her mother and violent stepfather. A chance meeting sparks a great friendship between the girls. And when Treasure has to run away to avoid her stepfather, India comes up with a hiding place inspired by her favourite author. India hasn't got a real Secret Annexe but she has got a hidden attic... A fantastic new novel from our bestselling author about two girls from very different backgrounds, who are inspired by a famous young writer.
Another moving and compelling tale from Jacqueline Wilson. This is a story about an unusual but very special friendship. Jacky weaves in the story of the life of Anne Frank seamlessly into this tale of two very different modern girls.
For nine to 11 year olds. |
| Magic Tree House 1: Valley of the Dinosaurs |
Mary Pope Osborne
£3.99, Kids at Random House
Eight-year-old Jack and his little sister, Annie, are playing in the woods during their summer holiday, when they find a mysterious tree house full of books. But these are no ordinary books . . . And this is no ordinary tree house . . .
Jack and Annie get more than they had bargained for when Jack opens a book about dinosaurs and wishes he could see them for real. They end up in prehistoric times with Pteranodons, Triceratops and a huge Tyrannosaurus Rex! How will they get home again? The race is on . . . !
This is a really great series of simple but exciting adventures that are packed with fun and a sprinkling of interesting historical and scientific facts. Suitable for boys and girls, these are ideal for younger readers aged five to seven years, just starting out on chapter books.
www.magictreehouse.co.uk
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| Charlie Small: The Daredevil Desperados of Destiny |
Charlie Small
£4.99, Random House Books
This fourth volume of Charlie Small's journal was found under unusual circumstances.Told of a sighting of Charlie, one of our intrepid editors packed their bags and by plane, hot air balloon and donkey, travelled to the valley where Charlie had last been seen. Charlie Small wasn't there. Our agent searched high and low and lower still. She did meet a skinny gunslinger in a bar who said he'd never heard of Charlie Small. But our editor had already spotted a familiar-looking notebook propped behind a bottle at the back of the bar. She slipped it into her pocket when the outlaw's back was turned . . . and this is it!
Having escaped the clutches of the evil Puppet Master, Charlie joins Wild Bob Ffrance's gang, The Daredevil Desperados of Destiny, whose sole aim is to get rid of the outragious outlaw, Horatio Ham, and his band of hired gunslingers. Charlie, aka The Lariat Kid, brings down Ham's posse of gunslingers, takes part in a daring bank raid, is caught up in a ferocious gunfight, lands up in jail, and is about to be sacrificed to The Great Bird of Death.
Will Charlie escape? Will Ham be defeated? Only by reading Charlie's extraordinary diaries will you find out . . .
Also available in the series:
Charlie Small: The Puppet Master
Charlie Small: Gorilla City
Charlie Small: The Perfumed Pirates of Perfidy |
| Charlie and the Rocket Boy |
Hilary McKay
£3.99, Scholastic
There's a new boy in Charlie's class. Zachary says his dad is away on a rocket, flying to a star, but Charlie knows better.
Zachary is a liar, liar, pants on fire!
...Or is he?
McKay's observation of normal life - what kids do, how they speak, what makes them laugh - is unrivalled. It is her particular knack at finding humour in the smallest things in life which makes her work so believable, charming and hilarious. Other titles in the Charlie series includes:
Charlie and the Cat Flap
Charlie and the Great Escape
Charlie and the Big Snow
plus!
Charlie and the Cheese and Onion Crisps due to be released in April 2008 |
| Lighthouse Keeper Stories 30th Anniversary Edition |
Ronda & David Armitage
£4.99, Scholastic
Every day, Mr Grinling the lighthouse keeper cleans and polishes his light to make sure it shines brightly at night. At lunchtime he tucks into a delicious lunch, prepared by his wife. But Mr Grinling isn't the only one who enjoys it. Can Mrs Grinling stop the greedy seagulls stealing the lighthouse keeper's lunch?
Reissued in accessible reader format, The Lighthouse Keeper Stories brings together the first two Lighthouse Keeper tales in one full colour paperback and provides a great bridge for children moving from picture books to more 'grown up' books. |
| Don't Eat The Teacher |
Nick Ward
£4.99, Egmont
It's Sammy the shark's first day at school and he's very excited. But when Sammy gets excited, he goes CRUNCH! Sometimes he nibbles his paintings, or chomps on the class story book, but when Sammy's excitement gets the better of him, the teacher is in for a big surprise! |
| Monstermakers: Electrotaur and Slashermite |
Ali Sparkes
£3.99, Scholastic
Eeeek! When Jack and Lewis’s monster drawings come to scary life, they wake to confront Electrotaur and Slashermite in their room! Can they get the monsters back into Tauronia - while making sure no-one suspects?
Suitable for five to nine year olds. |
| Monstermakers: Stinkermite |
Ali Sparkes
£3.99, Scholastic
Jack and Lewis's summer is ruined. Their horrible stinky cousin Timmy is coming to stay. If only they had gas masks to save them from the terrible smell! At least they have the monsters Electrotaur & Slashermite, but when they share the secret of Tauronia with Timmy, he decides to break in and trouble is inevitable! Suitable for five to nine year olds. |
| Mr Gum and the Goblins |
Andy Stanton
£4.99, Egmont
Shabba me whiskers This is barking bonkers... Well, that old roo-de-lally Mr Gum and the hideous Billy William the Third are once more mucking things up for everyone. They're a-schemin' and a-hatchin' an' making their bad plans up on Goblin Mountain. Can the wise old man Friday O'Leary and the small girl Polly make it past the Three Impossible Challenges of Goblin Mountain and save the town from a fate worse than something very bad indeed? In an epic tale of courage, valour and plain idiocy only one thing is sure: The truth is a lemon meringue!
Third installment in the superbly crazy world of Mr Gum. |
| Mr Gum and the Power Crystals |
Andy Stanton
£4.99, Egmont
Smooky palooki! Mr Gum is back, lurk-lurk-lurkin’ about about and doing lots of menacing and a spot of snurfling. Book 4 features an extraordinary tale, one so strange that it can’t be explained, not even by Old Granny.
It’s the tale of Polly and that old tumbledown windmill down by the riverside in Lamonic Bibber. Just what is the windmill’s terrible secret? Who is Nicholas de Twinklecakes? And what does "Vorsicht! Es Gibt eine kleine eule hinter dir!" mean? There’s also an epic chase scene, better than anything you’ll ever see at the cinema (unless it’s a chase scene in a film called "Mr Gum and the Power Crystals").
Fourth and latest installment from the mad world of Mr Gum! |
| Mad Grandad and the Mutant River |
Oisin McGann
€5.95, O'Brien Press
When Lenny goes fishing with his grandad, he knows they won't catch any ordinary fish. But when they drag up a mermaid in her car, even he's amazed. They all end up fleeing from a crazy fisherman who wants to trap the mermaid.
And then they find there is much, much worse waiting for them in the deep and dirty river.
Yellow Flyer reader number 14 for ages six years plus.
|
| Mad Grandad's Flying Saucer |
Oisin McGann
€5.95, O'Brien Press
Lenny and his mad grandad buy a flying saucer and shoot into space together. But space is full of all sorts of creatures -- some are friendly, some are not so friendly...
Getting into space is easy. Getting home again -- alive -- is going to be a lot harder!
Yellow Flyer reader number 11 for ages six years plus.
|
| Mad Grandad and the Kleptoes |
Oisin McGann
€5.95, O'Brien Press
Have you ever wondered where the other sock goes, or those keys or your earring or pen? Grandad wonders that all the time.
Things keep disappearing down the back of Grandad's sofa -- who, or what, has taken them?
When Lenny and Grandad discover the Kleptoes and their hideout, things turn nasty. And Kleptoes can be very nasty indeed ... especially Old Mother Kleptoe.
Yellow Flyer reader number 13 for ages six years plus.
|
| Mad Grandad's Robot Garden |
Oisin McGann
€5.95, O'Brien Press
A MAD GRANDAD AND ME STORY
Lenny's mad grandad has a new robot gardener. No more weeding or cutting the grass for Grandad.
But the robot has other plans. In the dark of night, it starts a garden of its own and Lenny and Grandad wake up to a nasty surprise!
Yello Flyer reader number 12 for ages six years plus.
|
| Wired Teeth |
Oisín McGann
€6.99, O'Brien Press
Deep in the cellars of the O'Brien Press is a safe that contained stories too horrible to be read. But somebody has broken into that safe and the stories have been released.
This is one of those Forbidden Files. Crazy dentists, secret agents and remote controlled braces – welcome to Jason’s world!
Jason McGinty’s a bad kid – he pushes people around and his gang rule the schoolyard. But when he gets braces on his teeth, things start to get hard for him – his mouth looks awful, and worst of all he begins to hear voices that no one else can hear.
Are the voices real, and do they anything to do with the braces? And who’s the big, scary boy who looks so like Jason? Something sinister is going on - READ ONLY IF YOU DARE!
Red Flag reader for ages eight years plus. |
| Ice Dreams |
Grace Wells
€7.99, O'Brien Press
Everyone needs dreams...
Twins Nina and Alex Popadopolus live on the beautiful island of Naxos. Their lives are simply happy, until their blind grandfather senses something terrible is coming.
The islanders need a plan to save their village and themselves, they need a dream. Could Alex’s ice-cream invention really be the answer?
Nina and Alex just have to make Papa, and all the others, believe in their dreams … or one by one the lights will go out and the village will die.
An atmospheric and enchanting adventure story that is gentle and easy to read with a timeless, feel-good quality, this delightful new story by an award-winning author is suitable for boys and girls aged eight years plus.
|
| Alfie Green and the Monkey Puzzler |
Joe O'Brien
€7.95, O'Brien Press
The circus has come to town. But it's no ordinary circus, it's Monty's Marvellous Monkey Circus and all the performers are monkeys! All the kids from Budsville are really excited, except for Alfie who suspects all is not what it seems ...
Read Alfie's other great adventures in:
Alfie Green and the Magical Gift
Alfie Green and a Sink Full of Frogs
Alfie Green and the Bee-Bottle Gang
Alfie Green and the Fly-Trapper
Alfie Green and the Conker King
Alfie Green and the Supersonic Highway
|
| Alfie Green and the Bee-Bottle Gang |
Joe O'Brien
€6.95, O'Brien Press
Alfie is in big trouble.
He stopped Whacker Walsh and his gang from trapping bees in the park and now they are out to get him. What can he do?
The wise old plant in the magical book comes up with a plan that sends Alfie back to Arcania in search of the Queen Bee in Honeycomb Mountain.
But first he has to survive an attack from the blazing bushes of Firethorn Valley!
Alfie needs back-up — and he needs it NOW!
|
| Alfie Green & The Supersonic Highway |
Joe O'Brien
€7.95, O'Brien Press
The latest Alfie installment from Dublin gardener, Joe O'Brien! When the Emerald Cactus in the Desert of Doom explodes, Budsville is covered in sparkling green sand.
Soon the evil Desert Elves will arrive on their Scorpion Chariots. How can Alfie stop them?
A very special lawnmower hidden in a secret subway under Grandad’s shed might do the trick – and it might help Alfie and Fitzer in the go-kart race, too!
Yellow Flag level for readers aged six years plus. |
| Outbreak |
CHRIS RYAN
£10.99, Doubleday Hb
Having survived the previous book in this series, Ben is now off for a quiet time with his father — in the Congo, not the safest of places! His father has a job to do in a remote village before they can holiday. Unbeknown to them they are walking into a lot of trouble, not least from the contagious illness that is rife there and being kept secret to further someone’s greedy plans. As Ben’s father falls dangerously ill it is up to Ben and a new found friend to try and stop the plan and the spread of the disease but they are facing some very determined, dangerous opposition.
This is another heart-stopping adventure, the third in the Code Red series, that keeps up the pace and excitement of the previous two. Fairly large print, medium length novel. |
| The Stolen Jade |
DAN LEE
£4.99, Puffin,
Matt soon settles in at the Beijing International Academy for Martial Arts and forms a strong friendship with three other students. They are being trained for a very important tournament by Master Chang a stoical teacher who uses strange methods to get the best out of them helping them develop a wide range of skills. They are slightly distracted when a local museum is broken into with nothing of importance taken — the security system was designed by one of their fathers and it damages his reputation. Determined to help redeem him, the friends look into the break-in, discover an important theft and set off to catch the thief. This first story in a new series called Tangshan Tigers is action packed and full of excitement and the good
news is, the second book, ‘The Golden Key’ is also out now. Fairsized print for newly confident readers |
| Snail Trail |
SARAH LUCAS
£5.99, mad about snails
As well as being an animal lover, Amy and her friend Charlie fancy themselves as detectives, so when every house in Newtown who doesn’t already own African Land Snails receives a present of them, they can’t wait to investigate. As it happens on April First it is thought to be an April Fool joke, but the girls think there is more to it than that. The
plot thickens after a very strange discovery on the Common, could the girls be biting off more than they can chew in this pacey story with plenty of twists to keep your interest to the end. An ardent disliker of snails, I was surprised how interesting these particular creatures can be. Large print with some pictures for newly confident readers and good to share. First in a new series with the next
one due out next month. |
| Airman |
EOIN COLFER
£10.99, Puffin Hb
In the late Nineteenth Century a few people believed man could fly, but they were considered odd. The fact Connor Broekhart is one of them may be partially explained by his
unusual birth in the sky in a hot air balloon. His father is a guard to the King of the Saltee islands off the coast of Ireland. Connor becames a great friend of the Princess,
especially after he saves her life, and he is knighted. His happiness is complete when his new tutor turns out to be another believer in man powered flight. Everything changes
however when Connor stumbles upon a vicious murder, part of an audacious plot to build up someone’s power. This has disastrous consequences for Connor, his family and the Princess and leaves Connor imprisoned, seemingly rejected by all those he loves, needing all his strength — both physical and mental — to survive. This is a thrilling, well constructed story full of plots and intrigue that will keep you glued to the end. Full length novel for older, capable readers. |
| Tumtum and Nutmeg |
EMILY BEARN
£5.99, Egmont
Tumtum and his wife Nutmeg live in splendour in their ouse
mansion in a long forgotten sealed off cupboard in Rose Cottage. The human inhabitants of the cottage have a much harder time of it. Arthur and Lucy’s inventor dad
is trying so hard to invent something to restore his family’s fortune he doesn’t realise how run down his home has become or how his children are suffering. Kind, childless Tumtum and Nutmeg go to the rescue, secretly doing all they can to make the children’s lives better while
calling themselves a ‘fairy of sorts’ in case the children react badly to mice. Life is looking up for them all until the arrival of vain, mean spirited, mice hating Aunt Ivy. Unfortunately she sees the mice and is determined to get rid of them. It’s mice verses Aunt Ivy as Nutmeg calls in reinforcements to help fight for the life of her husband and the children’s happiness. This is a brilliantly engaging story full of wonderful characters with descriptive illustrations that are
almost like stills from a film – in fact it would make a good film. There is plenty of excitement with some amusing and touching moments. Fair sized, well spaced print for those ready to try medium length novels. |
| The Shade of Hettie Daynes |
ROBERT SWINDELLS
£5.99, Corgi
Bethan and her brother Harry are shocked to actually
see the ghost people say haunts the old reservoir.
Bethan can’t get rid of the image of the young woman
hovering over the water pointing down, why is she
haunting there? Her interest deepens when she learns
a person associated with the ghost is one of her own
ancestors who disappeared mysteriously. As the
reservoir is partly drained for cleaning, parts of the old
mill are revealed and a startling discovery is made
which poses more questions. What is the story behind
it and why is the nasty bombastic councillor so keen to keep everyone away from the site? With the help of their friends, Harry and Bethan set out to find some answers in this gripping, spooky tale that is full of suspense. Fair sized
print, medium length novel. |
| Footprints in the Snow |
MEI MATSUOKA
£10.99, Andersen Press Hb
Wolf is upset — all the wolves in the stories he reads are
nasty and scary. Being a nice wolf, he wants to set the
record straight and write a story about a nice wolf like
himself who goes out to investigate a set of footprints. The
characters in the story find it hard to believe he is nice —
while trying to convince them, he may have to convince
himself as well! Very funny picture book with a nice twist.
Large print and a few sentences on each page help new
readers. |
| Iggy Peck Architect |
ANDREA BEATY/DAVID ROBERTS
£7.95, Abrams Hb
Iggy has been an architect since he was two when he built a tower out of nappies. His mum was very impressed, until
she realised they were dirty nappies! From then on his
creations were ever more elaborate and appreciated by all
— except his teacher who has a hatred of buildings and
bans him from building. Poor Iggy looses all interest in
school until a school picnic almost ends in disaster. Find
out what happens in this highly amusing picture book with
fairly small print and quite a few sentences on each page for readers beginning to gain confidence. |
| Nevermore |
LINDA NEWBURY
£9.99, Orion
Tizzie is used to moving from place to place when her mother feels like it, but she is surprised by the new place. Her mother is to be cook in a very grand, large house whose owners are a bit of a mystery. Only Finnigan, who is in charge of the house, had ever met them. They live abroad, but seem to be always expected home so the house is kept ready for their return. Tizzie finds this a bit odd, as is her mother’s behaviour. As she feels more at home and explores the house she makes discoveries about the owners that don’t seem to add up. She likes Finnigan and is almost sure village gossip about him is far fetched, but her mother has warned her not to believe all he says. Determined to get to the bottom of it all, Tizzie makes some shocking discoveries - for us as well as her! An intriguing, unputdownable story that will keep you guessing. Medium length novel with fair sized print. |
| Shape Land - Trevor Triangle Loses the Mail |
Helen Wendy Cooper
£4.99, Trafford
This is a fantastic story book to help teach children about shapes!
Trevor Triangle is Shape Land's happy postman whom has letters to deliver to different shapes, including three birthday cards for Rebecca Rectangle.
It's a very windy day in Shape Land and Trevor loses the cards.
He seeks the help of some other shapes in order to find the cards in time for Rebecca Rectangles birthday.
This book is beautifully illustrated and children fall in love with the shapes characters, making it far easier to talk about them and remember their names! |
| The Worst Witch to the Rescue |
JILL MURPHY
£9.99, Puffin Hb
Mildred Hubble returns to Miss Cackle’s Academy for witches
full of joyful expectations. For once she has actually done her homework well and invented a new spell. Things continue to go well, with old enemy Ethel actually being nice to her, even when, miracle of miracles, Mildred is better than her in a new subject. What can possible go wrong? Fans of this series will know something is bound to! Mildred’s past experiences should have warned her not to be so trusting, but she can’t help her nature and that is one of the things that makes her so likable. She will need all her courage and resilience to overcome the plot against her in this latest story full of fun, magic and excitement. Large print and some pictures for developing readers ready to try medium length novels. New fans will be pleased to know there are five other Worst Witch stories to catch up on. |
| The Lacemaker and the Princess |
KIMBERLY BRUBAKER BRAD
£5.99, Simon & Schuster
A trip to the palace to deliver lace takes a strange turn
when Isabelle unexpectedly meets Queen Marie Antoinette and is introduced to her daughter, the Princess. Isabelle becomes a companion for the Princess, but times are changing. There is great unrest in the country with many of the ordinary people close to starvation. Isabelle is in the unusual position of experiencing both sides first hand, or she thought she had until her brother shows her people who are much worse off then her family. Although fond of the royal family, she sees how out of touch they are and finds herself in an unenviable position as the French Revolution takes hold. This is a gripping, atmospheric story full of drama and excitement. Medium length novel for fairly confident readers. |
| The Thousand Nights and One |
JAN PIENKOWSKI RETOLD BY DAVID WALSER
£14.99, Puffin Hb
King Shahryar decides to take revenge on an unfaithful
wife by having a new bride every evening and killing her
the next morning. He meets his match in the clever
Shahrazade who spends the night telling a story that
reaches a climax when the next day dawns. Not wanting
to miss the end, the King postpones her execution. When
she finishes that story, she starts another which also
needs more time to finish, and so it goes on. The book
contains her famous short stories including Ali Baba,
Aladdin and Sinbad — with fantastic pictures by one of
my favourite illustrators. The silhouettes give an air of mystery contrasted by rich, vibrant colourful backgrounds. It is worth having for the illustrations alone! |
| The Curse of the Ancient Mask |
SIMON CHESHIRE
£5.99, Piccadilly
First book in a new series about Saxby Smart, Private
Detective. Saxby doesn’t have a sidekick, so there is a
gap we, the readers, can fill by picking up the clues in
these three cases and seeing if we can solve them before he does. After dealing with lost toys, Saxby is really pleased to have some more demanding cases. See if you can work out if Jasmine’s dad really does have a cursed mask, who the Purple Avenger is that is destroying the children’s competition entries and what happened to Heather’s aunt’s clasp. This is a fun read made even more enjoyable by being able to turn detective yourself. The clues are there for you to find without being too obvious. Fair sized print, medium length novel. |
| Invasions of the Christmas Puddings |
JEREMY STRONG
£4.99, Puffin
Did you know Santa had an evil brother, Bad Christmas? Not many people do — he has been imprisoned in another dimension for hundreds of years, but he has found a way back and is set on getting his own back with the help of deadly Christmas Puddings. Don’t scoff, you should see what they can do. He is going to make sure everyone
loses their free will and gives him their presents and he is going to use Father Christmas to do it. Are we all doomed? Well, believe it or not, there are some people who do not like Christmas Puddings and so do not succumb to their power, but will they be enough to spoil Bad’s evil plan? You will have to read this very funny story to find out. Fair size print to encourage readers on to medium length novels. |
| Hurricane Gold |
CHARLIE HIGSON
£12.99, Puffin Hb
James Bond is recovering from his previous escapade with his Aunt Charmian in Mexico, unaware of the proximity of an island where criminals hide out in comfort, but never leave. While she is on an expedition he is to stay with her friend, Jack Stone. Stone gives Charmian a lift, leaving James with his precocious children, Precious and JJ. It is loathing at first sight for all concerned, but the stay is dramatically cut short by a hurricane and some vicious bandits who take off with Stone’s safe. They would have had the children too but for James’ quick thinking. As the children try to reach Stone through disaster areas they seem destined to keep having dangerous meetings with the gang as well as other menacing foes, both human and animal. It all leads to the ultimate prison and a nail biting escape plan. This fourth book in the series hits the ground running and keeps up a breathtaking pace with our hero lurching from one death-defying situation to another with barely time to draw breath – all exciting stuff!! Full length novel for competent readers |
| Ultiamte Goals! |
Martin Dobson
£8.99, SportsBooks Ltd
Martin Dobson played more than 600 league and cup games in a 20 year career as a midfielder during which he played for Burnley, Everton and Bury as well as five times for England. Now Dobson, who still scouts for Ipswich Town of the Championship, has published a novel, aimed at 12 year olds and upwards who want to find out about the life of a professional footballer. The book follows the progress of two boys who could scarcely be more different. One, Jake, from a stable background, was scouted when he was at secondary school, joining the under-13 squad at Premier League Burding Town. The other, Ricky, from a single parent family, as battered by his mother’s partner and turned to drugs. But a concerned schoolmaster rescued him and after visiting a US soccer school Ricky joined Mexter in the Championship. Jake meanwhile overcame a serious injury and was made first team captain while still a teenager. For a while the fame might have gone to his head but he recaptured his grip on reality and he book ends when both boys make it to the FA Cup final. The National Literacy Trust, who have a project for reluctant readers called “Reading the Game”, stress that the detail in football novels has to be accurate to appeal to teenagers. Dobson, who acknowledges it is very unusual for ex-footballers to pick up a pen or at least turn on the word processor, is particularly good on the detail. After being player-manager at Bury he was briefly manager at Bristol Rovers before becoming Academy Director at Bolton Wanderers. Ironically that was the club left with egg on their face after they told a 19-year-old centre forward that he would never have a professional career – his name was Martin Dobson. We believe Martin is the first ex-England player to have a novel published. Terry Venables, now England assistant coach, wrote “They used to play on Grass” but that was co-written with Gordon Williams. Steve Bruce, Birmingham City manager and ex-Manchester United centre half, had three thrillers published – but he never played for England. |
| Worst Witch to the Rescue, The |
Jill Murphy
£9.99, Penguin
Mildred Hubble is sure that the new term at Miss Cackle's Academy for Witches is going to go brilliantly. She has prepared the best Holiday Project ever – she's certain that her form teacher, the formidable Miss Hardbroom, will be impressed. Even Mildred's arch enemy, Ethel Hallow, seems to have turned over a new leaf. But, as always, Mildred's plans soon come tumbling down around her. Will Mildred triumph after all?
A fantastic, brand-new Worst Witch adventure for eight to 12 year olds. |
| Slam |
Nick Hornby
£12.99, Penguin
Whoever invented skateboarding is a genius. There's only one skater, and his name's Tony Hawk. It doesn't matter if you don't know who he is, just trust me.
Not only is Hawk the world's best skater, he's also good to talk to. So I talk to Tony Hawk, and Tony Hawk talks back. Because just when it seemed like everything had come together for me, I had to go and screw it all up. It only took two seconds. But all of me knew.
One risk. One mistake and my life would never be the same. Hawk had a few things to say. And a few things to show me. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to see your own future?
From the author of 'About a Boy' and 'Fever Pitch', this is Nick Hornby's first novel for teenagers.
|
| Paddington: The original story of the bear from Peru |
Michael Bond
£10.99, Harper Collins
Paddington Bear first met the Brown family at a railway station – Paddington station, in fact. He had travelled all the way from Darkest Peru with only a jar of marmalade, a suitcase and a label reading ‘Please look after this bear’. Without further ado, Mr and Mrs Brown promptly welcomed the adventurous bear into their family, and in honour of their meeting place they named him Paddington.
The Browns soon discover that Paddington is a most unusual bear. Ordinary things – like having a bath – become quite extraordinary when a bear called Paddington is around.
Young children will love this charming hardback version of the original Paddington story. |
| Book of Curses, The |
Conor Kostick
€6.95, O'Brien
Alex Zwick never does what he is told. So when he finds a magic book, he just can’t stop making wishes – even after they go horribly wrong.
Will the book outsmart Alex and his friend Emily? Will its chillingly evil laughter ring out yet again in triumph?
Full of giant, venomous spiders, vengeful gnomes and themes from mythology, this is a scary but fun page-turner.
Another creepy Forbidden File that should never have escaped - read only if you dare!
Another creepy crawly Forbidden Files (No. 4) title for children aged eight years plus. |
| Witch Apprentice, The |
Marian Broderick
€6.95, O'Brien
There’s something very odd going on in Anna Kelly’s new home – her guardians, Grizz and Wormella Mint, are witches, and they want Anna to help them with their nasty spells!
So Anna’s stuck in their horrible house, chopping up toadstools and scrambling frogspawn, with no one but Charlie the cat for company. Is there any way out for her? But then she finds an evil, old spell book in the cellar – can Anna make the magic work for her?
Another Forbidden Files (No. 3) title perfect for Halloween and children aged eight years plus. |
| Twin Giants, The |
Dick King-Smith - Illustrated by Mini Grey
£7.99, Walker Books
Lottavim and Normus do everything together: waking up, going to sleep, even sneezing. So when they reach the age of twenty and the height of twelve feet, it's not surprising that they each think the same thought at exactly the same time: "It's about time I found a wife!" But how is it possible to find not one but two of the giantesses of your dreams?
This hilarious illustrated comedy combines the skills and artistry of one of the most treasure children's authors and most talented new illustrators. A comic tale that follows two tall brothers on their search for true love that will amuse and delight children aged five years plus. |
| Twinkles, Arthur and Puss |
Judith Kerr
£12.99, Harper Collins
Twinkles, Arthur and Puss is the story of a loveable cat with three owners. They all love him and pamper him in their own ways. 'Twinkles has a basket to sleep in. Arthur has three cushions and Puss sleeps on Grandpa's bed'. But he is out alot and none of his owners know where he goes. Then one day, Twinkles, Arthur and Puss don't come home. The owners finally meet with delightful consequences.
A new cat character for Judith Kerr - the first since her most famous feline heroine Mog died five years ago in 'Goodbye Mog'. |
| Jimmy Coates: Sabotage |
Joe Craig
£5.99, Harper Collins
“Jimmy closed his eyes, searching for that power inside him. He had to forget that he was terrified – that was only the human part of him, the 38 per cent that was a normal, frightened boy. He willed the assassin to take him over. He knew that somewhere within him was enough strength, resilience and expert knowledge to survive this crisis.”
The cold and calculating Miss Bennett has had enough of Jimmy Coates. NJ7’s greatest invention has turned into it’s greatest enemy, and it’s time someone put an end to him.
But Jimmy’s next mission is to foil a secret plan – and who could be better at this than someone who officially doesn’t exist.
Jimm Coates seems like an ordinary boy, but he's not. He's genetically engineered to grow into the perfect government assassin. Speed, strength and deadly instinct - it's all in his blood. Will appeal especially to boys aged 10 years plus. |
| 10 Scary Monsters |
Class P3, Scoil Chiarain, Dublin
€8.95, O'Brien
A counting adventure story packed full of fun, as you count down from 10 to the one remaining ‘not so scary’ monster.
Ten Scary Monsters sprang from the imagination of ten children of Class P3 in Scoil Chiarain, Dublin, under the creative guidance of their class teacher Kay Murphy.
Beginning by drawing their own faces, the ten went onto design the monsters and then gave them personalities and made up adventures for them. Visiting artist Maria Murray, helped the group to make digital images of their monsters, and later, masks for Halloween.
Scoil Chiarain is a special school for children with learning difficulties and Ten Scary Monsters is a testament to the power of learning through creativity.
This imaginative school project has been transformed in a beautifully presented counting book for all young children to learn from and enjoy.
|
| Darkside |
Tom Becker
£6.99, Scholastic
Welcome to the wrong side of town...
On the run from a gang of kidnappers, Jonathan Starling hides out in a secret borough that festers in the heart of modern London. Founded by Jack the Ripper, Darkside is a place of evil and danger but also excitement and mystery.
A supernatural suspense thriller with a fabulous cut-out glow-in-the-dark cover! Also now available is the sequel - Darkside 2: Lifeblood - winner of the Waterstone's Children's Book Award 2007.
|
| Charlie & The Great Cat Flap |
Hilary McKay
£3.99, Scholastic
Charlie and Henry are planning the best sleepover ever. They've made an agreement: No Itching Powder, No Dead Flies and No Super Soakers to be squirted at the ceiling in order to make surprise indoor rain.
But the sleepover doesn't go quite how Charlie plans...
An irresistibly funny new hero for emerging readers. Also available: Charlie & The Big Snow and Charlie & The Great Escape. |
| Death Run |
Jack Higgins with Justin Richards
£12.99, Harper Collins
A mafia banker wants to defect and give evidence against his former bosses, and John Chance's boss Ardman is handling the exchange. But when the criminals realise they might be able to exert influence on Chance by getting at his children, Rich and Jade, the twins find themselves in the firing line. With a kidnapping in Venice and a shoot-out at a private school in England, this sequel to SURE FIRE will have both young and old Jack Higgins fans hooked. |
| Marley:A Dog Like No Other |
John Grogan
£5.99, Harper Collins
Meet Marley, a yellow furball of a puppy who quickly grows into a large, rowdy Labrador retriever. Marley is always getting into trouble, whether he is stealing underwear, crashing through doors, or drooling on guests, some may say he's the World's Worst Dog!
But those who know and love Marley accept him as a dog like no other. His heart is pure and his larger–than–life personality irresistible. He brings joy to his family, the Grogans, and teaches them what really matters in life.
This warm story shows that loving someone, flaws and all, can reap huge rewards.
This No. 1 international bestseller has been specially adapted for younger readers and is also available as a CD audiobook.
|
| Silver Notebook, The |
Enda Wyley
€7.95, O'Brien
Timothy Finn is a boy with two dreams and a mystery to solve.
The notebook that arrives out of the blue on Timothy’s birthday changes his life forever.
It is a gift from Timothy's father. But who is his father, and why has he suddenly entered Timothy’s life?
His mother keeps secrets, and Timothy is confused. Then there is the mysterious writer who lives in the woods: does this mystery man hold the answer to Timothy’s dreams – to find his father and to become a writer?
With the help of his best friend Fleur, Timothy sets out to uncover the riddle of his past.
With clues throughout the story that allow the reader to try to solve the mystery of Timothy’s origins, this is a beautifully written and memorable adventure story.
Suitable for children aged 10 years plus.
|
| Supermarket Ghost, The |
Gordon Snell
€6.95, O'Brien
It seems like another boring summer for Maria, that is until she meets Davy.
Did Davy really appear out of nowhere and why can’t anyone else see him? Is he linked to the tragic accident that happened twenty years ago? And are all the dark rumours about Paddy Breen true?
Reluctant at first, Maria agrees to help Davy on his mission of revenge. She soon finds her world turned upside down as she learns more about Davy’s past and Paddy’s secret.
An exciting and unpredictable ghost story suitable for younger readers aged eight years plus.
|
| Blue, Where Are You? |
Wes Magee
€5.95, O'Brien
Mum, Dad, Josh and Jo are moving to a new house, and of course the family cat, Blue, comes too.
But on their first evening in their new home, Blue is nowhere to be found. Josh and Jo search every inch of the house – they look in the bedrooms, in the attic, even out in the barn. Where is Blue?
Josh and Jo are sad going to bed without their cat, but the morning brings a wonderful surprise! Blue is back – and she’s brought her new, baby kittens with her!
A beautifully illustrated heart-warming new story for readers aged six years plus.
Flyer No. 17
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| Conor's Canvas |
Gillian Purdue
€5.95, O'Brien
Conor’s class are all painting special pictures for a show.
There are pictures of flowers, pets, friends.
But Conor’s canvas is different. It’s just splashes and splodges of paint.
It’s a mess – or is it?
Conor’s spirited determination and individuality have made him a favourite with readers aged five years plus.
Panda No. 35
|
| Mad Grandad's Wicked Pictures |
Oisin McGann
€5.95, O'Brien
Grandad and Lenny are trying to paint the living-room. But Grandad’s paint is very old and it’s gone quite strange. It has stripes and patterns in it…..
At first it seems like fun to make pictures with this weird paint. Lenny calls his picture ‘Fang’ because it looks like a creature, and Grandad calls his ‘Mildred’.
Lenny and Grandad decide to hang their pictures on the wall and go in search of frames. But when they return the pictures have disappeared. It looks like they’ve been stolen, but then they realise something else has happened....
That’s when things start to go terribly, terribly wrong…
Mad Grandad's latest mad adventure is number 17 in the Flyer series and for readers aged six years plus. |
| Alfie Green and the Conker King |
Joe O'Brien
€7.95, O'Brien
Alfie would love to win the School Conker Championship. But with Conor Hoolihan on his team and Whacker Walsh cheating all the time, he has no chance. He needs to find a Super Cracking Conker, and he needs to find one fast.
Alfie must travel through the Skeleton Woods of Arcania to find the last great king of the conker warriors.
Will the Conker King part with his winning conker?
Another wonderful adventure from the crazy world of Alfie Green. Suitable for six to seven year old readers. |
| Alice in the Middle |
Judi Curtin
€7.95, O'Brien
Megan can’t wait to go away to Summer Camp with her best friend Alice. It will be fantastic – no organic porridge, no school, nothing but fun!
But when Alice makes friends with Hazel, Megan begins to feel left out. Hazel’s pretty, sophisticated and popular, and Alice seems to think she’s amazing.
Is Megan going to lose her very best friend?
A highly anticipated new story in the hugely popular 'Alice' sries from the Irish Jacqueline Wilson - for girls 10 years plus. |
| Keeper of the Crock of Gold, The |
Bairbre McCarthy : Illustrated by Oldrich Jelen
€14.99, Mercier Press
A collection of stories about the adventures and mischief of the Irish leprechaun. The leprechaun is the shoe-maker of the Irish fairy kingdom. He is a solitary fairy, fun-loving and very crafty. He is often seen sitting, cross-legged with a tiny hammer in his hand, working on a fairy shoe.
The leprechaun is the keeper of the crock of gold at the end of the rainbow and he knows where all the wealth of the world is buried. If you are lucky enough to catch him, you must keep your eyes on him at all times and not allow him to distract your attention or he will disappear. If he does not out-smart you he can make you very wealthy and can make your wishes come true!
This highly original new take on leprechaun lore, will intrigue older children and delight with its outstanding artwork - which on its own, is enough reason to buy this superb book. If you are looking for a classic Christmas present, then you have just found what you're looking for!
Bairbre McCarthy was born in Ennis in County Clare but now lives in the USA. She has been writing and collecting stories for many years and she conducts workshops and gives musical performances based on her writings. McCarthy is also the author of Favourite Irish Legends in English and Irish.
Oldrich Jelen honed his creative skills at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague before moving on to work for various periodicals and finally as the in-house illustrator at Albatross Publishing House in the Czech Republic. He has won numerous prestigious awards.
|
| Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows |
J.K Rowling
£17.99, Bloomsbury
Harry Potter is just becoming over-age and is now a proper wizard. In the half-blood-prince albus dumbledore dies and leaves Harry, Hermione and Ron a task to find 3 horcruxes but Ron leaves them half-way through will he return..... |
| Tiddler |
Julia Donaldson - illustrated by Axel Scheffler
£10.99, Scholastic
Every day, Tiddler is late for school, and every day he has another tall tale for his teacher. But did he really ride a seahorse? Did he really meet a mermaid? And who will believe him when he really does get captured in a net?
Tiddler is a classic of the future, with a little hero that two to six year olds will identify with. A fabulously fishy adventure about the importance of storytelling, from the creators of The Gruffalo. |
| Shamrock Sean and the Bird's Nest |
Brian Gogarty
€4.95, O'Brien Press
'These are the adventures of a lively leprechaun.
He's from the est of Ireland, his name is Shamrock Sean.
He has a little bushy beard, his hair is thick and grey.
He's older than the Blarney Stone if he's a single day.
He loves to eat potatoes - boiled or mashed or roast,
But cabbage mixed with bacon is what he loves the most'
A wonderful new series introducing the adorable Shamrock Sean for children aged three to five years.
Other titles available are 'Shamrock Sean Goes Fishing' and 'Shamrock Sean and the Wishing Well'.
Brian Gogarty was born and grew up in Belfast but has lived in Co. Derry for 20 years and works as the manager for Cookstown Credit Union. He first had the idea for Shamrock Sean when making up bedtime stories for his children. |
| Big Busy Book of Richard Scarry, The |
Richard Scarry
£12.99, Harper Collins
This bursting book of Scarry adventures is full of favourite Scarry stories, making it delightful for Scarry fans and the perfect introduction for new readers. This wonderful hardback collection contains three of Richard Scarry's best loved stories; Funniest Storybook Ever, ABC Word Book and What do People do All Day?
|
| Skullduggery Pleasant |
Derek Landy
£6.99, Harper Collins
A truly genre-busting book from Dubliner, Derek Landy. A comic horror adventure featuring the irresistible character, the wise-cracking Skulduggery Pleasant. He is urbane, sophisticated, well dressed - and a powerful magician. Oh, yes and he's also dead. Evil had better beware, as Skulduggery has super powers and martial arts at his disposal. Number one in the Irish charts and number two in UK on initial release, this paperback version with its fluorescent orange pages will capture the imagination of readers aged 10 years plus. |
| Abadazad: The Puppet, the Professor and the Prophet |
Dematteis & Ploog
£6.99, Harper Collins
Kate teams up with more strange characters to continue her quest to rescue her brother Matt from the evil Lanky Man.
Having been abandoned by the Waterlogged Warlock, Kate and the living candle, Master Wix, meet Professor Headstrong and the puppet Mary Annette. But the intrigue deepens as Kate is told it is her destiny to involve the terrifying Mr Glum. And with the Lanky Man’s Lanky Boys on the prowl, who can Kate trust?
Pre-teens will adore these astonishing comic book classics, which is the third in the series. Other titles available are 'The Road to Inconceivable' and 'the Dream Thief'. |
| Queen Clarion's Secret |
Disney Fairies
£3.99, Harper Collins
TInk, Prilla and all the fairies from Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg are back in this delightful storybook from Disney’s Fairies.
Catch up with your Fairy friends in this wonderful new addition to the Fairies story collection.
Other new titles out this autumn are'Rosetta's Daring Day' and 'Silvermist and the Ladybug Curse'.
Suitable for six to 11 year olds. |
| Rock Star |
Jennifer Holm and Matthew Holm
£4.99, Harper Collins
Move over Mozart! Babymouse has music in her soul… but sadly, not in her flute. Will Babymouse ever hit the right note? Will she be the star of the school concert or is her musical career all washed up before it's even started?
The sensational fourth book in the Babymouse series.
|
| Midnight Feast by Warchild |
Introduced by Fearne Cotton
£6.99, Harper Collins
The blockbusting, bumper anthology for children is back, in the name of both entertainment and charity. Midnight Feast is packed full of exclusive stories and exciting illustrations – and best of all, £1 for every copy sold goes straight to War Child and No Strings.
Featuring an introduction by Fearne Cotton, Midnight Feast includes stories and artwork by the best authors and illustrators in the business. Including: Darren Shan, Anthony Horowitz, Meg Cabot, Eoin Colfer, Garth Nix, Joe Craig, Kath Langrish, Brian Jacques, Oliver Jeffers, Jonathan Stroud, Maeve Friel, Annie Dalton, Margaret Mahy, Helen Dunmore, Chris d'Lacey, Jamie Oliver, Tony Hart and Eleanor Updale…
|
| Lucky Star |
Cathy Cassidy
£8.99, Puffin
Teenagers Cat and Mouse come from opposite sides of the track in north London, but trouble seems to follow them both around. Mouse is struggling to keep his graffiti art away from the eyes of the police, and volatile Cat's problems are tearing her apart. A chance meeting brings them together, but can their friendship survive the secrets and lies and shocking events that follow?
Cathy Cassidy's hugely engaging writing has massive appeal for boys and girls aged eight - 13 years.
|
| Wild Magic |
Cat Weatherill
£5.99, Puffin
Dark, magical and exciting, Cat Weatherill's new fantasy takes the legend of the Pied Piper and gives it an unexpected twist.
Mari and her brother Jakob have followed the enchanted music and are now trapped in a world of wild magic. A world as cruel as it is beautiful. And all the time, they are being stalked by a fearsome Beast, who needs one of the children to break a centuries-old curse.
But the price of breaking the curse is a terrible one ...
A spellbinding and wild adventure, full of unexpected magic and danger for eight to 12 year olds.
|
| Questors |
Joan Lennon
£5.99, Puffin
Meet Madlen, Bryn and Cam. A girl, a boy and one who's undecided. They're in charge of saving the world – well, three worlds actually. They're just not entirely sure how...
Luckily they've been designed as heroes by the people in charge. The only problem is, they're not ready yet. They're still kids and they have no idea what they're looking for or where they'll find it...
And as if things weren't bad enough, there's a mysterious villain hot on their trail, determined to stop them at all costs.
Suitable for eight - 12 year olds. |
| Burn My Heart |
Beverley Naidoo
£5.99, Puffin
The Mau Mau – the name of a secret society that once struck terror into the hearts of British settlers in Kenya. An episode in history that ended in a State of Emergency, with violent and brutal acts dividing a nation.
This is an intensely personal and vivid story of two boys, one black, one white. Once they were friends, even though their circumstances are very different. But in a country riven by fear and prejudice, even the best of friends can betray one another...
Internationally acclaimed and award-winning author, Beverley Naidoo, explores new territory in this beautifully realized and moving story set in Britain's colonial past.
Suitable for 10 - 14 year old readers.
|
| Half Moon Investigations |
Eoin Colfer
£5.99, Puffin
Meet Fletcher Moon. Half-pint schoolboy and fully qualified private investigator. Since graduating online, he has solved all sorts of minor mysteries at school and at home. It was only a matter of time before things got serious. When Fletcher investigates a spate of crimes in the town of Lock, the finger of suspicion is soon pointing in the direction of shady brothers Herod and Red Sharkey.
From the megaselling author of 'Artemis Fowl'. |
| The Baby (But I'd have liked a hamster) |
India Knight
£5.99, Puffin
When the new baby comes home, Tom is NOT impressed. Baby Florence is a "podge" and Tom is much more interested in being an astronaut than a big brother. He does NOT want to help and he does NOT want to pass the bottom wipes - sometimes he even calls her "poopoohead", though not out loud of course! But, babies have a way of winning you over, and before long even Tom comes to love that smile. Maybe being a big brother isn't so bad after all!
Suitable for three to five year olds. |
| Banana |
Ed Vere
£5.99, Puffin
Getting what you want can be tricky, especially if you don't ask in quite the right way. Follow one little monkey's journey through many emotions as he tries every trick in the book to get hold of his friend's banana, until he finally hits on the magic word – please! Using only two words, this is a fantastic introduction to the value of manners and compromise for young children. Packed with humour, colour and exuberance, this is a brilliant observation of toddler behaviour, suitable for three to five year olds. |
| Safely Through The Night |
Elena Pasquali
£6.99, Lion Hudson
Emily settles down to sleep with her beloved Cinnamon Bear, safely tucked up with Hug the quilt.
When a silver moonbeam comes tapping at the window, Emily tries to tidy it away... but she ends up having to wind it up like sparkly wool for miles and miles through and over the night-time world.
Suddenly it pulls tight and then lifts her up in a twinkling: a waiting child angel is full of thanks - she had dropped a ball of Granny angel's knitting wool, and Emily has wound it up safely.
Granny angel gives Emily a knitted ball... and suddenly it turns into the golden rising sun.
A glittering follow-the-thread bedtime story for two to five year olds that sparkles with promises of sweet dreams and happy endings. |
| Dear Mermaid |
Alan Durant
£9.99, Walker Books
It is the summer holiday and Holly finds a mermaid's purse on the beach near her cottage. Thinking a mermaid must have lost it, Holly writes a letter to see if she'd like it back. Princess Kora replies, and they soon become holiday friends. Holly learns all about life under the sea, as well as getting some very special holiday presents!
Join Holly as she learns about a magical undersea world in this glittery picture book with real mermaid letters and gifts. |
| The Old Tree |
Ruth Brown
£9.99, Walker Books
What does the big X painted on the Old Tree mean? Pigeon Post isn't sure, but Captain Crow knows. The tree is going to be chopped down! The animals will have to put their differences aside and work together if they want to save their home... This fabulous picture book features an interactive pop-up tree as a grand, flourishing finale.
The animals who live in the Old Tree must work together to save their home in this wonderfully illustrated picture book with spectacular pop-up finale. |
| Leonardo the Terrible Monster |
Mo Willems
£10.99, Walker Books
Meet Mo Willems' latest character, Leonardo the terrible monster. Terrible at being a monster, that is. He doesn't have thousands of teeth, he's small, he's cute and, despite his best efforts, he can't seem to frighten anyone. Then, one day, he meets a nervous boy called Sam and finds out that being a good friend is a whole lot more rewarding than trying to scare the tuna salad out of people!
An exceptional tale of an unexceptional monster - laugh-out-loud picture-book fun from the creator of Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus. |
| Baby Brains and Robomum |
Simon James
£10.99, Walker Books
Everyone knows that Baby Brains is the smartest baby in the whole world. He's certainly clever enough to see how tired his Mum and Dad seem to be at the end of the day, after doing the housework and looking after him. Then Baby Brains has an idea - a robot that can cook, clean and do the laundry ... RoboMum! The invention is a smashing success, until RoboMum takes on a few too many duties and the family gets a bit more help than they bargained for!
The world's brainiest baby is back with some amazing, time-saving inventions in the follow-up to the award-winning Baby Brains. |
| Previously |
Allan Ahlberg
£10.99, Walker Books
Do you know what Jack was doing before he climbed the beanstalk? Or what Jack and Jill were arguing about before they went up the hill? And what happened before that? And even before that? Find out what all your favourite storybook characters were up to previously because every story, every person and everything started somewhere!
An inventive, topsy-turvy, back-to-front story of fairytale characters and what they did ... previously. |
| Secret Garden, The |
Francis Hodgson Burnett - Illustrated by Inga Moore
£15.99, Walker Books
When orphan Mary Lennox arrives from India to live with her uncle, everyone at Misselthwaite Manor thinks her a most disagreeable child. Then one day she discovers a secret garden, locked and hidden for ten years. With the help of Dickon and her spoilt, invalid cousin, Colin, Mary brings the garden back to life; and as she does, the mystery behind it is revealed. An instant classic, The Secret Garden has been cherished by generations of readers since its publication in 1911.
Step into the world of the secret garden with a beautifully illustrated hardback gift edition of one the best-loved children's stories, suitable for age five years plus. |
| Penguin |
Polly Dunbar
£7.99, Walker Books
Ben is delighted when he rips open his present and finds a penguin inside. "Hello, Penguin!" he says. Penguin says nothing. "Can't you talk?" says Ben. Penguin says nothing. It isn't until a passing lion intervenes that Penguin finally speaks ... and when he does, Ben discovers something that was really worth waiting for. Offering a whole new storytelling experience this picture book and DVD edition features a charming story animation, narrated by Emilia Fox (Silent Witness, Rebecca). |
| Little Rabbit Foo Foo |
Michael Rosen
£7.99, Walker Books
He's wild, he's wicked, he's Little Rabbit Foo Foo! The bully-boy bunny likes nothing better than to ride through the forest bopping everyone on the head. Wriggly worms, tigers, no one is safe. But here comes the Good Fairy - and she is not amused! Offering a whole new storytelling experience this picture book and DVD edition features a charming story animation, narrated by Kevin Whately (Inspector Morse, Peak Practice). |
| Some Dogs Do |
Jez Alborough
£7.99, Walker Books
On the way to school one day, Sid is so full of happiness that he starts to fly. But no one believes him; dogs don't fly. Poor Sid is miserable, until his dad lets him into an amazing secret: some dogs do! Offering a whole new storytelling experience, this picture book and DVD edition features a charming story animation, narrated by Kevin Whately (Inspector Morse, Peak Practice). |
| Noah's Ark |
Lucy Cousins
£7.99, Walker Books
"Then the animals came, two by two ... two by two ... into the ark..." There have been numerous picture-book versions of the Old Testament tale of Noah and his ark, but none as simply told and boldly illustrated for young children as this rainbow-filled version by Lucy Cousins. Offering a whole new storytelling experience this picture book and DVD edition features a charming story animation, narrated by Adjoa Andoh (Casualty, Doctor Who). |
| Silly Suzy Goose |
Petr Horacek
£7.99, Walker Books
Suzy Goose is fed up with being just like the rest of the flock. She wants to be different: to flap like a bat, squawk like a toucan, slide like a penguin, jump like a kangaroo, and swim like a seal. But when she tries to roar like a lion she gets more than she bargained for! Offering a whole new storytelling experience, this picture book and DVD edition features a charming story animation, narrated by Adjoa Andoh. For children age three years plus. |
| Under the Same Stars |
Suzanne Fisher Staples
£5.99, Walker Books
A young woman must choose between family, tradition and an unexpected love in this gripping novel set in Pakistan.
Shabanu, daughter of the windswept Cholistan desert, is the youngest of Rahim's four wives. Although her husband adores her, it is only in his rarely inhabited town house, away from the family home, that Shabanu and her daughter can escape the cruelty of the other wives. But there Shabanu falls dangerously in love with another man, and she must decide whether it is right to follow her heart.
A powerful sequel to 'Daughter of the Wind', blending intrigue and excitement with an open look at Muslim culture and the issue of women's roles in traditional society. Suitable for ages 12 years plus. |
| Big Dog Bonnie - the little dog with big ideas |
Bel Mooney
£3.99, Walker Books
Harry longs for a dog to help him cope with all the problems he faces in his new town. His best friend is an imaginary hound called Prince - big, strong, brown-and-black mixed. So when his mum gets a real dog called Bonnie - tiny, white and fluffy - Harry wants nothing to do with the embarrassing pooch...Meet the little dog with big ideas in this brand-new illustrated story for independent readers age seven years plus. |
| Candy Plastic |
Joanna Nadin
£3.99, Walker Books
Meet Candy Plastic, a top-of-the-range doll with lots to learn, in this comical story for young readers.
Candy Plastic has long blond hair, a car, a pony, and a wardrobe to die for. The only problem is, she knows exactly how wonderful she is - as the toys she lives with soon find out. Follow them in these four stories as they climb to the top of the wardrobe in search of new outfits, deal with the arrival of a new toy, race Candy Plastic in her brand-new Candymobile and escape from the bedroom. Will the spoilt Candy Plastic ever be brought back down to Earth?
Suitable for readers age seven years plus. |
| Voices of Silence, The |
Bel Mooney
£4.99, Walker Books
A gripping story about a young girl's turmoil during the revolution in Romania. Before she knows it, everything in thirteen-year-old Flora Popescu's life has changed. Her parents, her best friend Alys, and the restricted life she has always known in their Bucharest tower block are distanced from her - and Daniel, the mysterious new boy at school, seems to be the cause. Flora likes him, but why can't everybody else trust him too? She thinks of her father's words: "People like us can't afford the luxury of new friends." Then, just as she is making sense of her divided loyalties, Flora discovers that only she alone can save her father's life. Suitable for readers age nine years plus. |
| Peter and the Shadow Thieves |
Dave Barry & Ridley Pearson
£7.99, Walker Books
Discover more about the origins of J. M. Barrie's beloved Peter Pan in this thrilling sequel to Peter and the Starcatchers.
A ship draws near Mollusk Island, bringing an eerie passenger - a cloaked stranger who makes even the desperate pirate crew shake in fear. Lord Ombra is coming for Peter and the Lost Boys... Peter and Tinker Bell must travel to the mean streets of Victorian London on a mission to save the world from the forces of darkness - but can they survive the sinister Shadow Thieves? A must for Peter Pan fans - young or old - this action-packed magical adventure reveals even more of the boy-who-never-grew-up's past! For readers age nine years plus. |
| Robe of Skulls, The |
Vivian French
£4.99, Walker Books
An exuberant, hilarious and wildly entertaining fairy tale with a cast of characters who are good, bad and very, very ugly! All is not well in the crumbling castle high above the mountain village of Fracture. The sorceress Lady Lamorna has her heart set on a new robe. A very expensive new robe. To get the cash she will stop at nothing, including kidnapping, blackmail and more than a little black magic. But she reckons without the heroic Gracie Gillypot, not to mention a gallant if rather scruffy prince, two chatty bats, the wickedest stepsister ever, a troll with a grudge - and some very Ancient crones. For readers age nine years plus.
|
| Cairo Jim and the Lagoon of Tidal Magnificence |
Geoffrey Skimming
£4.99, Walker Books
A legendary palace in the crater of a Sumatran volcano conceals a timeless secret - one that Cairo Jim is determined to uncover. But he isn't the only one on the trail. Why has the Turkish Women's Olympic Tent Erection Team disappeared? How is Preston Glamourdust, of the Glamourdust Glove and Gusset Company, involved - and why does he seem so strangely familiar?
Eighth in the Cairo Jim Chronicles for readers age seven years plus.
|
| Cairo Jim Amidst the Petticoats of Artemis |
Geoffrey Skimming
£4.99, Walker Books
Amidst the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus, Captain Neptune Bone has unearthed an incredible relic which promises him supernatural powers. With the fate of the world hanging in the balance, it's up to that well-known archaeologist and little-known poet, Cairo Jim, and his faithful companions to prevent Bone from meddling with the Petticoats of Artemis. But can he do it in time?
Seventh in the Cairo Jim Chronicles for readers age seven years plus.
|
| Bone: Eyes of The Storm |
Jeff Smith
£8.99, Harper Collins
A storm is brewing and there’s nowhere to take shelter. Once again, the valley seems tranquil: Fone Bone, Phoney Bone and Smiley Bone are helping to patch up Gran’ma Ben’s farmhouse after the rat creature raid, and Phoney Bone is up to his old tricks again. Part Three of the incredible comic book saga that Matt Groening (Simpson) is a major fan of. |
| Way Back Home, The |
Oliver Jeffers
£11.99, Harper Collins
One day a boy finds an aeroplane in his cupboard. Up and away he flies, whizzing past clouds, stars and planets until suddenly, he runs out of petrol. Miles from earth, the boy crashes into the moon. Just as he is getting cold and lonely, a friendly martian appears. Beautifully illustrated by Belfast author Oliver Jeffers, this latest picture book is an affecting story of friendship for young children.
|
| HERE’S A LITTLE POEM: A VERY FIRST BOOK OF POETRY |
COLLECTED BY JANE YOLEN AND ANDREW FUSEK PETERS
£12.99, WALKER BOOKS
Over sixty poems by a wide range of poets. Work by John Agard, Hilaire
Belloc, Gertrude Stein and many others are affectionately gathered here –
all embodying the innocence, wonder and joy with which very young children
encounter the world around them. The poems are quirky and full of
imagination. Here, for example, Spike Milligan writes unforgettably about
rain. ‘There are holes in the sky/ where the rain gets in, / But they’re
ever so small/ That’s why rain is thin.’
This is a book blessed by Polly Dunbar’s wonderful illustrations which
capture exactly how children see things. And the result is a simple,
beautiful book, which young children will enjoy looking at, as much as
reading or having it read to them by grown-ups. Equally, there are
invaluable rhythms and ideas here that will instil in the young reader an
early and enthusiastic love of poetry.
A collection of poetry which demonstrates what poetry at its very best can
be.
Age 3+ [EW]
|
| THE ASTONISHING LIFE OF OCTAVIAN NOTHING |
M T ANDERSON
£12.99, CANDLEWICK PRESS
The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing is, without doubt, one of the most
affecting reads of 2007. This is a book about the history of slavery: set in
Boston on the cusp of the Revolutionary War, young African American,
Octavian is raised by a group of rational philosophers. He is dressed in the
finest silks and educated to the highest classical standard. His mother is
an African princess, famed for her beauty and wit. It is only after entering
a forbidden room that Octavian learns the chilling truth about the
philosophers’ experiment and his part in it. Inevitably once the veil of
deceit has been lifted, things can never be the same. Anderson’s historical
research is impeccable and Octavian is a realistically violent book, which
confronts sickness, sanitation, war and the treatment of slaves. It is also
a complex story, which raises many difficult questions about freedom and
suppression. Written as a dual narrative in eighteenth century diction from
Octavian’s point of view and a series of letters from a soldier who
befriends him, reading Octavian requires effort on the part of the reader
but perseverance will be richly rewarded. Octavian Nothing will undoubtedly
challenge and disconcert: the themes of slavery, racism, captivity, free
will and the search for identity resonate in the modern world. Winner in the
US of 2006 National Book Award for Young People, it is likely to appeal to
the most committed young adult readers but should also be recommended to
adults.
|
| BLOOD RED SNOW WHITE |
MARCUS SEDGWICK
£9.99, ORION
Idealistic, radical, possible Bolshevik spy and friend of Lenin and Trotsky
– not perhaps the images most readily associated with Arthur Ransome.
Happily Blood Red Snow White is at least as intriguing as any adventure
story Ransome, author of the Swallows and Amazons adventure books, ever
imagined. This is a fictionalised version of his time in Russia, of his
experiences of war and its aftermath, of revolution and the exhilarating
feeling of liberation it initially inspired, of the conspiracies and
intrigues of both MI5 and the Cheka, of his friendships with the most
powerful people of the time, of his failed marriage and subsequent love
affair with Trotsky’s secretary. Sedgwick combines legend and folklore with
Secret Service files and historical detail – the image of the dying Rasputin
crawling in the snow, leaving a ‘ghastly red and pink trail’ while the bear
that is Russia stirs in its cave – is one of many unforgettable images. This
is a rich and totally spellbinding account of a most interesting period in
the history of one of the most fascinating countries in the world as
experienced by Arthur Ransome, journalist and spy (and smuggler?), author of
Old Peter’s Russian Tales and winner of the first Carnegie Medal for
children’s literature.
|
| ARE WE THERE YET? |
DAVID LEVITHAN
£5.99, HARPERCOLLINS
Danny Silver is a dynamic and hard-working executive; brother Elijah is
seven years younger, easy-going and affable but reluctant to accept change,
to go to college, to become an adult. These are brothers who could be said
to inhabit different universes
Sent to Italy by parents anxious that their sons should repair their
relationship, each dreads the prospect of spending nine days in enforced
togetherness. Levithan handles the apparent disconnectedness of the brothers
with skill and subtlety: the reader is aware of the many attitudes and
experiences they share, though these remain unspoken and so unknown to them.
We see their private reactions and are gradually made aware, through
humorous flashbacks, of how these brothers, once so close, have drifted
apart. This is a thoughtful novel, full of humour and insight, about family
and other relationships. It is also a beautifully written travelogue,
complete with vivid and detailed images of their respective sights and
sounds, for three of the most beautiful cities in Europe; it is a novel that
will convince any reader to visit, or revisit, Italy. [LM]
|
| RUBY RED |
LINZI GLASS
£10.99, PENGUIN
Seventeen-year-old Ruby Winters leads a double life: once she sets foot
inside the school grounds she is the perfect A-student, popular with
teachers and students alike but it is in the company of her parents that
Ruby is her real self. Her classmates cannot guess that Ruby is very skilled
at guarding secrets, for telling the truth could see the imprisonment of her
parents and would certainly lead to brutal retaliation and ‘rough justice’
for their black friends and associates. Her mother runs a controversial art
gallery where she shows the work of banned black artists and her father is a
lawyer who represents activists of the proscribed ANC. But when she rejects
the advances of a rich and powerful classmate and soon after is seen with
Afrikaans boy, Johann, Ruby sets in train a sequence of events that leads to
disaster. For this is Johannesburg 1976, and the Soweto riots that will
spark the protests that ultimately force an end to the extraordinarily
unjust system of apartheid are just around the corner. This is a powerful
story of love and loyalty in troubled times, and a moving portrayal of the
lives of ordinary people whose convictions and actions bring about
extraordinary change.
|
| PIPPI LONGSTOCKING |
ASTRID LINDGREN, ILLUSTRATED BY LAUREN CHILD, TRANSLATED BY TINA NUNNALLY
£14.99, OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS
Lingren's text, first published in 1945, is engaging, hilarious and
completely unique. Who can resist Pippi? After all, here is a girl who can
lift a horse, who lives alone in a house called Villa Villekula and who has
a pet monkey.
In this edition Child's illustrations are superb. The collage and vibrancy
matches perfectly with Lingren's story. Child's Pippi is a delight and she
enhances the tale with dynamic illustrations in her trademark style. There
are typographical flourishes too, to engage a more sophisticated reader.
This luxurious edition is an expensive purchase but could well become a
family classic to be revisited again and again. It has everything a 6-8 year
old might look for – engaging central character, child-centred plot, and a
sense of the absurd as well as vibrant illustrations to pore over. At
nearly 200 pages, an emerging reader will need support, but Pippi is just
the character to encourage you to read on. I can't think of a better book to
share at bedtime. Read it first for the story, again for the illustrations,
again for both together and then again and again and again! [MW]
|
| MONKEY AND ME |
EMILY GRAVETT
£9.99, MACMILLAN
A young girl with stubby pigtails goes to the zoo with her toy monkey in
tow. There she sees penguins, kangaroos and finally, monkeys. Again, the
text is simple, but the illustrations are exceptional. From the lead-pencil
drawings on the end papers, showing the little girl struggling with her
tights, to the cheeky swooping bats, these are the kind of joyful, exuberant
illustrations that make the heart sing. [SW]
|
| POLLY DUNBAR |
PENGUIN
£10.99, Walker Books
Ben opens a box on his birthday and finds a penguin inside, but try as he
may, he just can’t get the penguin to talk. But when a huge aquamarine lion
eats Ben, Penguin bites Lion very hard on the nose, saving his new friend.
Like the text, the illustrations are deceptively simple, all set against a
plain off-white background. Ben, a young boy with a large forehead and rosy
cheeks, is full of character and Dunbar can convey in a few pen lines what
other illustrators take pages to achieve. Brave, charming, and utterly
original. [SW]
2 ½ - 4 YEARS
|
| THE BIRTHDAY BOX |
LESLIE PATRICELLI
£10.99, WALKER BOOKS
I love Leslie Patricelli’s books for babies and toddlers. Big, brash, loud,
funny and sweet – she has a rare gift. In The Birthday Box a baby gets a
present from his Grampa, wrapped in dotty red paper. He rips off the paper,
it’s a cardboard box! He gives it a hug. Inside he finds a cuddly dog and
together they have adventures in their brand new box. This charming book is
guaranteed to make any parent smile in recognition.
The illustrations are exceptional, and the colours striking – soaring sky
blues, warm happy reds, and sorbet fresh yellows – a visual sweet shop! The
baby, outlined in strong black, is full of expression, and when he climbs
into the box and tells his new dog a bedtime story – ‘I am very lucky
because today is my birthday and I got a box!’ – Your heart just melts.
It’s wonderful to see such accomplished artwork in a book designed for the
very youngest readers, so many of their books these days are just scaled
down versions of books for older children. More please!
READ ALSO: Yummy Yucky; Quiet Loud
|
| Dolphin Song |
LAUREN ST JOHN
£9.99, Orion Hb
Just getting used to her new life with her grandmother in South Africa, Martine is loath to go on a school trip involving diving. She has seen cave paintings depicting someone at sea surrounded by dolphins and sharks and has reason to believe they are a prophecy involving her. The trip goes ahead and disaster strikes fulfiling the prophecy. Martine and some classmates are saved by some dolphins only to find themselves marooned on a desert island in even more danger as are their dolphin friends. Can Martine’s secret gift save all of them? This is a thrilling story with some real breathtaking moments (especially for anyone with a fear of sharks such as yours truly!) It’s a real page turner, you won’t be able to put it down. Sequel to ‘The White Giraffe’ it can be enjoyed with out having read the first book, but if you haven’t you will probably want to! Full length novel for capable readers. |
| Wasim The Wanderer |
CHRIS ASHLEY
£4.99, Francis Lincoln
Wasim loves football and is very excited when a real football coach goes to his school to teach them. He is even more excited when he gets the chance to try out for a trial with Woodley Wanderers. BUT he has managed to upset Robert the school bully who is also in line for the team. Can he play his best football and avoid Robert? Meeting Robert’s dad casts a new light on his situation making Wasim realise everyone has problems. This is a touching story about a kind, considerate boy who tries to do his best and overcome adversity while showing consideration for others. ‘Wasim One Star’ is also out now. Short novel with large print and some pictures for newly fluent readers. |
| Kat Got Your Tongue |
LEE WEATHERLY
£5.99, Corgi
Kat wakes up with no memory at all after her accident. She doesn’t know who anyone is, including herself. As time goes on she realises something awful has happened that has alienated her friends, but she has no idea what. As readers we know more than she does because her story is interwoven with past events from her journal that she hasn’t been able to find. What will happen when she discovers the truth about her ‘old’ self? This is an intriguing, unputdownable story that will have you guessing to the end – you really empathise with Kat, sharing all her emotions. Full length story for older readers. |
| Escape From the Carnivale |
DAVE BERRY & RIDLEY PEARSON
£4.99, Walkers
Disobeying their fathers’ orders, Little Scallop and her mermaid friends Surf and Aqua go diving on their own when tragedy strikes. Surf is captured and imprisoned on a ship used as a floating circus. Anxious to save her friend, Little Scallop rushes back to her tribe for help only to find they are all away, as is their friend, Peter Pan. Only one of his boys, James, is available, can she rely on him with the help of dolphins and mermaids? The sailors on the floating circus aren’t her only worry. A certain Captain Hook and his pirates want to capture the ship for themselves. It all adds up to an action packed, dramatic story, part of the Neverland series, but aimed at younger readers than the previous stories. |
| Ghost Hunters and the Gruesome Invincible Ghost |
CORNELIA FUNKE
£4.99, Chicken House
The newly formed ghost hunting agency made up of the experienced Hetty Hysop, schoolboy Tom and Average Spooky Ghost Hugo think they are in for an easy time when they are called to the Seafront Hotel to get rid of a small ghost. The trouble is they haven’t been given all the facts and arrive to discover they are up against a GILIG — one of the five most dangerous types of ghost. The books say it is an almost impossible task to get rid of them — even Hetty is bothered, and they haven’t brought the right equipment. With hotel guests being turned into fire
ghosts there is no time to lose, but can they achieve the impossible? Find out in this enjoyable mixture of humour and excitement with plenty of spooky, gungy bits! Second book in this series, read ‘Ghost Hunters and the Incredibly Revolting Ghost!’ to find out how the team got together. |
| Shipley Manor |
TIM WALKER
£6.99, Faber
Used to a very orderly, tidy life, Tom finds the haphazard conditions at the club at Shipley Manor where he has a Saturday job rather strange. He soon adjusts and grows to love his job, the club and the people he works for. He is determined to do all he can to stop its threatened closure while being totally unaware of the part he is playing in it. Can the club be saved from the greedy clutches of the ruthless Venetia Pike, and will Tom’s dad get over the shock of the disorderly life his son lives at work? Find out in this pacey story full of laughs and excitement. Fair sized print for those ready for longer novels. |
| Fox Tale |
MICHAEL FOREMAN
£5.99, Anderson
A fox family living near a town are regularly fed by a kind man until he is injured trying to stop boys throwing snowballs at them. While staying with his gran Jack is more than a little surprised to find
The foxes return the favour by chasing off the boys and two eighteenth century highwaymen come through a panel in the wall
waiting with the man until an ambulance arrives. While he is away there is no one to feed the foxes until help comes from a very unexpected source. This is a touching, tender story about trust and unusual friendships and their effects on everyone involved. Beautiful picture book with large print and a few sentences on each double page for those beginning to gain confidence in their reading. |
| Jack Bolt and the Highwaymen’s Hideout |
RICHARD HAMILTON
£5.90, Bloomsbury
While staying with his gran Jack is more than a little surprised to find two eighteenth century highwaymen come through a panel in the wall to his bedroom. His surprise is only matched by theirs when they discover they have arrived in the twenty-first century. They soon recover enough to realise they have found the perfect hiding place for their treasure — and themselves when the need arises. The temptation to look around in the future is too much for them, luckily it is Hallowe’en so their clothes can be explained. Jack soon feels the same need to explore their time experiencing some dramatic events. They can all see advantages in being able to flit between times, but you have to be careful when time travelling — one mistake could be catastrophic. This is an
exciting adventure story with some unexpected twists to keep you gripped to the end. |
| Final Lap |
MALCOLM ROSE
£5.90, Kingfisher
Latest in the ‘Traces’ series. Teenage Forensic Investigator, Luke and his robot MALC have been called to investigate a series of incidents at the site of the International Youth Games. There have been too many of them for it to be a coincidence and it look as if someone is trying to sabotage the games. With a number of deaths and a missing person, it is up to Luke to find out who is behind
it all before they kill again. He has a number of suspects, but with little forensic evidence and an earnest, literal robot to deal with he is not having an easy time. He is glad to see a friendly face until a near death experience makes him fear for not only his own life, but the lives of anyone close to him. This is a real page turner – a futuristic detective novel mixed with CSI. There are plenty of twists to keep you gripped to the end. Great news, there are four others if you haven’t already read them with more on the way. Full length novel for capable readers. |
| And Tango Makes Three |
JUSTIN RICHARDSON / PETER PARNELL
£6.99, Simon & Schuster
In Central Park Zoo all the penguins pair off, including Roy and Silo. They carry on the same as the other penguin couples, except when the others lay and hatch out eggs. Being boys Roy and Silo can’t do that, but they try by substituting a stone. Seeing this and having a penguin who laid an extra egg, their keeper decides to give the boys the chance to be a real family. See what happens in this charming and moving picture book. It is all the more poignant because it is a true story. A few sentences on each page help new readers gaining confidence, but it is a lovely story for all ages and abilities. |
| Alien Timebomb |
David Donohue
£4.99, Egmont Books Ltd
Walter Speazlebud, the boy who can spell backwards and travel back in time, returns for a new adventure! Walter Speazlebud - first person on the moon - is back in Nittiburg, going to kung fu lessons with Annie and trying to come to terms with the death of his grandad. He still dreams about his trip to the moon, but he's trying to get back to ordinary life. Until... he receives an urgent message from the American government. There's an asteroid hurtling towards the earth - and they need Walter to stop it! Soon, Walter and his dad are in New York, discovering that an alien nation is holding the world to hostage. They are demanding the return of two of their people, alive. Only problem is, they died in an explosion in 1947. Walter must go back in time to save them. Last time, Walter enabled Man to go to the moon. This time, he can save the earth. But will he be able to do it without Grandad? For the chance to read the first chapter of this book visit our Kids Times - News page (Primary Times Kids Times Alien Timebomb Review Page)
|
| Dragonskin Slippers |
JESSICA DAY GEORGE
£5.99, Bloomsbury,
When Creel’s aunt left her to a dragon
it led to a strangest of events, the
outcome of which could not be
predicted. Luckily for Creel, dragons
were not the deadly creatures they were
said to be, not by choice anyway. Creel
made friends with a couple and was
given a special pair of shoes before
going to the city to use her embroidery
skills to earn a living. There she fell foul of an obnoxious,
spoilt foreign princess who was about to marry the heir to
the throne bringing peace to the two countries. Is there
more to her than meets the eye? Creel becomes involved in
a political intrigue that threatens disaster for humans and
dragons alike. Can she avert it? This is an action packed,
unputdownable story with a clever mixture of adventure,
humour and really touching moments. Fair sized print for
those ready to try longer novels. |
| Tom’s Dragon Trouble |
TONY BRADMAN
£4.99, Usborne
Tom thought his idea was brilliant. Buy a baby pet
dragon and then convince his parents to let him get it,
but things don’t go according to plan. His parents are
dead against the idea so he has to keep Sparky hidden,
which isn’t easy with Sparky’s amazing growth rate. Tom
is sure he will be able to change his parents’ minds,
but the arrival of the King overshadows everything. He
thinks his luck has changed when he overhears a plot to kill the King. If he
can get his dad to play hero, no matter how unlikely that would be, his
parents would be bound to accept Sparky. Things go horribly wrong and
Tom’s family end up accused of being the plotters. It is not just Sparky’s
future that is in doubt. This is a very funny adventure
story, first in a new series called ‘Creaky Castle’. |
| Dudes, the school is haunted |
R.L.STINE
£3.99, Harper Collins
It’s no joke when you upset a bully. It’s even worse if
you happen to be in a boarding school with no escape
— as Chipper discovers. He didn’t mean to squirt
Sweety — the biggest, meanest pupil or do any of the
other unfortunate things he did. They were all
accidents, but Sweety didn’t care about that and
Chipper decides the safest thing to do is hide away
until the end of term. Luckily for him his brainy friend
Bernie discovers Sweety’s flaw — he is afraid of
ghosts — and a plan is hatched. How successful it is
remains to be seen! Great news, this is the seventh book in the hilarious
‘Rotten School’ series and number eight is out now as well so there is
plenty for fans of the series and even more if you have just discovered it.
Fun for all ages and abilities to enjoy. |
| London Eye Mystery, The |
SIOBHAN DOWD
£8.99, David Fickling Hb,
Ted and Kat’s cousin Salim stays with them with his
mother before they move to New York. He is
keen to go on the London Eye, but a twist of
fate means he goes on alone — and doesn’t come
off. This is impossible of course, but true. Ted and
Kat had tracked his pod all the way round and met it at the end of the
journey, but he isn’t there. A major alert for the boy starts — the
police are baffled. Was he kidnapped, have amnesia, or did he
spontaneously combust? These are some of Ted’s initial theories he
and Kat try to work through. Ted isn’t good at relationships or
judging people’s emotions, but he has a good, methodical brain for
problem solving. Kat is more interested in action, but realises
together they make a good team to investigate Salim’s disappearance…
with surprising results. This is a really gripping mystery, very well
written with clues throughout if you want to try solving it yourself. It’s not
so much a ‘whodunnit’ as a ‘who did what and why’! Largish print to
encourage readers onto longer novels. |
| Super Powers |
ALEX CLIFF
£0.99, Puffin
A trip to the boys’ favourite play spot, the ruined castle, turns into something
very serious for Max and Fin with a strange discovery in the walls. Hercules has
been imprisoned and all his powers taken away by Juno. The boys can help if
they take on one of his powers and perform an impossible task, but is
superstrength enough to defeat a huge Nemean lion? Even if they manage this
task there are six more to perform in as many days. This is a really exciting
story that builds to a fast paced finale, it almost takes your breath away. First
in a new series ‘Super Powers’, each dealing with a different task. Good news,
there are three others out already and more to come later in the year. |
| Ivan the Terrible |
ANNE FINE
£4.99, Egmont,
As he can speak Russian and new boy Ivor can’t speak anything else, Boris is
asked to show him around and act as translator. He feels quite sorry for Ivor until
the first thing he has to translate involves calling everyone “lowly shivering
worms”. Deciding it must be first day nerves, Boris changes it slightly in translation.
It is soon clear he is going to have to be very creative in his translations as
practically everything Ivor says is insulting or threatening. Having portrayed Ivor as
a nice, polite boy Boris can’t tell people what he is really like. The day goes from
bad to worse — how can Boris get out of the hole he has dug for himself? Find out
in this very funny story. There are surprises in store for Boris — and us! |
| The Bad Spy’s Guide |
PETE JOHNSON
£4.99, Corgi Yearling,
Tasha hates her ordinary life and longs to be a spy. She’s well
prepared, having read loads of spy books, taking in all the details.
Imagine her delight when, having found the new boy at school
acting strangely in her garden, his notebook full of surveillance
details is mixed up with hers. He has to admit he is a spy in need
of her help. All her dreams have come true as her life changes
dramatically.… but some things don’t quite add up. Tasha’s friend’s doubts add to her
own, surely Henry hasn’t been stringing her along. She can‘t bear to go back to her
ordinary life and has to do something outrageous to find out the truth. This is a pacey,
eventful story full of humour and excitement. There are plenty of plot twists to keep you
guessing to the end — a real page turner. Fair sized print, medium length novel. |
| The Penderwicks |
JEANNE BIRDSALL
£4.99, Corgi Yearling,
When Mr Penderwick hires a holiday cottage for him, his four
daughters and their very large dog for the summer he has no
idea of the effect it is going to have. It is part of a beautiful
estate with a large house owned by rather severe Mrs Tifton.
Rosalind, the eldest daughter tries to keep her sisters out of
trouble, but they are all strong characters who seem to attract
it, although they mean well. They have a strong family bond
and make many friends including Mrs Tifton’s son, Jeffrey,
whose unhappy life they want to improve. She sees them as a
bad influence on her son and thinks their laid back father is an inept parent. But she is totally unaware of her own failings in that area — a situation the girls are determined to put right.
Despite their best intentions, they seem to be making things
worse. The characters in this captivating story are very well rounded, especially the
sisters. You know them so well you feel you can predict when they are about to do
something potentially disasterous, but shouting at the book doesn’t help! It somehow
has a flavour of the March sisters in Little Women, another
favourite of mine. Medium length novel, great to share. |
| Aliens Love Underpants |
CLAIRE FREEDMAN/ BEN CORT
£5.99, Simon & Schuster,
If you ever worry about Aliens coming to earth to get you
— don’t. They aren’t after people, but underpants. They
just can’t get enough of them – all types, shapes and
sizes. If you are wondering what they do with them you
will have to read this very funny picture book. Written in
rhyme with large print it is great for beginner readers and
fun to read aloud. The vivid illustrations add so much. |
| Night Pirates, The - Book & CD |
Peter Harris
£7.99, Egmont
Read along and sing along to this rough and tough, swinging and swaying, seawashy piratical yarn!
One night, young Tom is awoken by noises outside his house. He peeps out of the window and what should he see but PIRATES. And stranger still – they’re GIRL PIRATES stealing the front of his house!
Tom joins their pirate adventure across the high seas to an island where some rather lazy and silly grown-up pirates are guarding their treasure. But not very successfully. Tom and the girl-pirates make a surprise attack and are soon off on the seas once more with the treasure.
CD contains 30 minutes of story reading, soundtrack and lots of readalong fun all voiced by actor John Sessions for three to six year olds.
|
| She'll Be Coming Round The Mountain Book & CD |
Jonathan Emmett
£10.99, Egmont
She’ll be coming round the mountain when she comes…
And she’ll sure be coming in style, as she whistles like a train as she speeds across the plain and stops us all from feeling glum when she paints the whole town plum!
Silly antics; madcap heroine; infectious refrain – all in all a book that begs to be read again and again and again. The CD contains 30 minutes of story reading, soundtrack, and lots of readalong fun, all voiced by actor Kerry Shale for three to six year olds.
|
| Aaaarrgghh, Spider! Book & CD |
Lydia Monks
£7.99, Egmont
Read along and sing along to this tickly, brushy-scratchy, spidery extravaganza read by comedienne Dawn French.
All Spider wants is to be a family pet. But the family whose house she lives in are terrified of her. Whenever she tries to show them what a great pet she would make, they simply cry: ”AAAARRGGHH, Spider!”
For three to six year olds.
|
| Boys' Annual 2008 |
www.mombooks.com
£6.99, Michale O'Mara Books
This book is simply a must for any boy with time on his hands and a sense of adventure.
Brimming over with fun facts, jokes, quizzes, puzzles and daring distractions, this is a book that no one should be without. Guaranteed to keep boys busy well in to 2008.
Entries include:
• Write your own interactive story about a superhero.
• Visual entertainment including dot-to-dots, mazes and spot-the-difference.
• Spooky stories to tell around the campfire.
• With advice ranging from how to survive in the wild to how to perform keepie-uppie tricks.
• Invaluable advice on driving parents and siblings crazy.
From the author of the Boys' Book of How To Be The Best at Everything.
|
| Dr Seuss Miniature Library |
Dr Seuss
£30.00, Harper Collins
To celebrate the 50th birthday, this is a delightful gift box of ten mini hardbacks of Dr. Seuss’s most popular titles:
• The Cat in the Hat
• The Cat in the Hat Comes Back
• Green Eggs and Ham
• Fox in Socks
• How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
• Oh, The Places You’ll Go!
• Hop on Pop
• Scrambled Eggs Super!
• One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
• The Sneetches and Other Stories
An ideal gift packed with Seussian fun for those learning to read, or as a 'future proof' gift for any new baby! |
| Magic Shoebox Farm, The |
Ian Whybrow
£5.99, Harper Collins
Art doesn't feel very well and isn't even interested in playing with the farm inside a shoebox that once belonged to his dad. But suddenly, the shoebox lid lifts up…all by itself…and out climbs Hoofer the toy horse!
Hoofer needs Art to bring his toolkit and help fix Red, the tractor. With a little bit of magic, Art soon finds himself shrinking, and shrinking, until he is small enough to climb inside the shoebox to take part in the most wonderful adventure. And, after some farmyard fixing, Art finds that he is also beginning to feel on the mend.
Every child dreams of stepping into a miniature world. Ian Whybrow brings to life the fantasy in this charming tale that will make for comforting bedtime reading.
|
| Cat in the Hat - Nursery Cloth Book |
Dr Seuss
£3.99, Harper Collins
A squeaker, bell and rattle add noisy fun to a simple version of Dr. Seuss’ classic story, The Cat in the Hat. Youngest children will find much to delight in this bright, soft cloth book, from the riotous rhymes to the tactile cloth and noisy accessories. A hit for the nursery! |
| I Want My Dummy |
Tony Ross
£5.99, Harper Collins
The Little Princess’s dummy keeps disappearing. She finds it in the strangest of places...up the chimney, under the dog, in the dustbin. Everyone says the Little Princess is too grown-up for a dummy... Will she never give it up?
Perfect for little people just finding their way in the world, with cheeky humour and lots of fun for parents and children to enjoy together. |
| I Want A Sister |
Tony Ross
£5.99, Harper Collins
When the Queen announces there is going to be a new arrival in the family, the feisty Little Princess has very mixed feelings! A sister would be wonderful but brothers are smelly. Brothers are rough and they have all the wrong toys. But when the new baby boy arrives home the Little Princess decides not to put him in the dustbin as she had planned; after all, this family already has one beautiful Little Princess, maybe a Little Prince won't be so bad...
Full of Tony Ross's brilliant touches of characterisation and silliness with delicious illustrations. |
| Fifi Pops Up |
Fifi & The Flowertots
£4.99, Harper Collins
There is a fair in Flowertot Garden. All the Flowertots are preparing their stalls and prizes but where is Fifi hiding? Join in the fun as the Flowertots search everywhere for their lovely friend.
With beautiful illustrations and with a pull-the-tab to reveal the Fifi Forget-Me-Not on every page. This is the perfect way for little girls to jump into Flowertot adventures!
Since launching in 2005, over a million copies of Fifi and the Flowertots titles have been sold as the show's popularity increases. Other Read-to-Me Storybooks include 'Big Band Night' when Fifi and the Flowertots form a band (!); 'Can We Have Our Ball Back' with Pip and Bumble versus Stingo and Slugsy in a Garden cup final; and 'Violet's Big Bracelet' with Fifi and Violet making friendship bracelets.
|
| Legend of the Worst Boy in the World |
Eoin Colfer
£7.99, Puffin
Will is desperate to win the Giant Jelly Baby competition and be named 'the best boy in the world'. But his big brother Marty always beats him to it. Then one day Will's wish comes true – he's the best boy in the world at last! Marty is not happy, and decides that something must be done...Funny, quirky fiction with brilliant illustrations by Tony Ross. Boys and girls aged seven plus who are a little too young to enjoy the more involved plots of ‘Artemis Fowl’ will love this tale from best selling Wexford author Eoin Colfer. |
| The Reluctant Rajput |
Richard Moverley
£3.99, Egmont
Bhupinder wants to be a noble and brave Rajput warrior. Soon he has the chance to help defeat an entire Moghul army! With fantastic facts about India and even how to make delicious Indian food, with story, facts and activities about a village in India. A Go Bananas Chapter Book for newly fluent readers with topics from Key Stage 2. |
| Storm |
Kevin-Crossley-Holland
£3.99, Egmont
Annie knows the secrets of the great marsh. She's even heard about its ghost. But on a terrible night, when Annie must brave the storm alone, not even she knows what to expect. A Yellow Bananas title for confident readers with short chapters and fully illustrated in colour.
Winner of the Carnegie Medal. |
| The Three Billy Goats' Stuff |
Bob Hartman
£6.99, Lion Hudson
When Goat starts at a new school he's in for a big surprise. No one has told him about Troll, the school bully. But then - Troll hasn't heard about Goat's bigger brothers!
A fun twist on a traditional tale from a much-loved storyteller complete with story CD. |
| Naughty Amelia Jane! And Amelia Jane Get Into Trouble |
Enid Blyton
£6.99, Egmont
She’s big! She’s bad! The terror of the toy cupboard returns with new cover illustrations by Deborah Allwright and two glorious books in one! Amelia Jane is a very naughty doll who snips the tail off the pink rabbit, squirts Tom the solider with water and makes all sorts of mischief in the toy-cupboard. But what happens when the toys play their own tricks on Amelia Jane? Back to delight another generation of horrified girls and boys from age five years and up.
|
| Cat in the Hat, The |
50th Birthday Books: Various
£4.99, Harper Collins
Celebrating the Cat in the Hat’s 50th Birthday with a new classic edition plus four other titles. ‘The Best Nest’ by P.D. Eastman is about two birds facing decisions and dangers. ‘Inside Outside Upside Down’ by Stan Berenstain is the adventure of a small bear created from a vocabulary of just 23 words. ‘A Fly Went By’ by Mike McClintock is an exciting story that will make early readers want to find out what happens next. ‘I’ll Teach My Dog 100 Words’ by Michael Frith shows young children how easy it is to learn to read – even for a dog! |
| One Beastly Beast |
Garth Nix
£5.99, Harper Collins
Four great tales for younger readers with this collection of magical adventures that will allow capture a whole new generation of fans with its spellbinding storytelling. Featuring rude rats in Blackbread the Pirate; a young orphan in Bill the Inventor; monsters on the loose in The Princess and the Beastly Beast; and girls and penguins in Serena and the Sea Serpent! Snuggle up and enjoy Garth Nix's magical adventures that girls AND boys will love! |
| Palace of Laughter, The |
Jon Berkeley
£6.99, Simon & Schuster
When the mysterious Circus Oscuro arrives in the dead of night, Miles Wednesday, a runaway orphan living in a barrel, is the only person in the town of Larde to witness the event. Later that same night, he is approached by a tiger who claims he can smell the circus in Miles. Thus begins a chain of events that introduces the boy to a winged waif named Little, a captive of the circus's sinister ringmaster. Upon Little's escape, the two set out to rescue her friend from the Palace of Laughter, which seems to be far more dangerous and horrible than the name implies. The story is filled with captivating and ingenious descriptive passages and was nominated for CBI Bisto Book Award 2007.
|
| 1000 Prayers for Children |
The Lion Book of..
£9.99, Lion Hudson
One thousand prayers suitable for use with children are presented in an easy-to-look-up format, with a useful mix of topic and occasion-led themes such as : For the Very Young, To Welcome Baby, Festivals (Christmas, Easter, Harvest), Illness & Bereavement, Journeys & Holidays, Animals, School, Family and the Christian Life. This volume includes a mix of already published and new prayers, including traditional and Bible prayers as well as modern ones. Carefully indexed for ease of use - by first line, time of year, related Bible passage and author - children will be able to find the right prayer for the right occasion with ease. |
| My Baptism Book |
Sophie Piper
£9.99, Lion Hudson
This gift prayer book has the colour illustration, textual simplicity and styling to appeal to very young children from two to five years. It includes simple prayers, of the sort that are useful to commit to memory and to say at bedtime, along with very simply expressed statements of Christian belief that are appropriate to the age range. |
| Mr Bump & the Knight |
Roger Hargreaves
£2.50, Egmont
Mr Bump is always getting bumped and bruised or scraped and scratched. Then one day, he sees Knight who gives him a wonderful idea. New title with sparkly cover for three to six year olds. |
| Little Miss Lucky & the Naughty Pixies |
Roger Hargreaves
£2.50, Egmont
Little Miss Lucky is the luckiest person in the world, until strange things start to happen to her.
Can she discover what is behind her sudden bad luck?
With added sparkly covers, for three to six year olds.
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| Evil Inventions |
Nick Arnold
£4.99, Scholastic
A romp through the history of invention and machines covering everything from the bicycle to the atomic bomb. Crammed full of fun features, quizzes and cartoons. |
| Adventures of Tintin |
Herge
£12.99, Egmont
All of Herge’s original Tintin albums are now available in this collectable, hardback set of eight volumes. Each of the books has 3 of Tintin’s adventures and are an excellent introduction to the world of espionage and the boy wonder himself. If you are looking for to encourage readers only interested in comics, then any Tintin book is the perfect place to start. |
| Mr Gum and the Biscuit Billionaire |
Andy Stanton
£4.99, Egmont
This is weird, wacky and one in a million: a cross between Roald Dahl and Monty Python. Mr Gum is back in this second hilarious book and he’s as nasty as ever! In fact, he’s absolutely ‘grimsters’. There’s also a gingerbread man with electric muscles, a girl called Polly, an evil butcher, wise man Friday O’Leary, Jake the dog, and an angry fairy who whacks Mr Gum on the head with a frying-pan? For seven to 10 year olds who enjoy crying with laughter… |
| Look What Blew Into the Zoo |
Fiona Tierney & Una Healy
€8.99, www.primaryabc.ie
When a gust of wind blows a family’s washing over their wall and into the zoo, a delightful tale unfolds. Crammed with exotic animals, fun personalities and plenty of action, this delightful tale contains all the magical elements to stimulate young inquisitive and fun-loving minds. Beautifully illustrated, it can be enjoyed by toddlers, right through to early readers and is sure to be a bedtime favourite for three to six year olds. |
| Starlight Conspiracy, The |
STEVE VOAKE
£12.99, Faber hb
Berry's life has to change when her mother dies. She is all alone and the other travellers are about to move on without her. She dreads the future a social worker shows her — in care and going to school. A chance meeting with an old man who miraculously saves her life without losing his own changes all that. What could be in the mysterious package he is so keen for her to take to America for him? His death shows her new future is going to be very uncertain and fraught with danger, but that appeals to her unconventional nature. This is a compelling read from beginning to end. It is action packed with heart stopping moments and a sense of camaraderie, all overlaid with ideas to make you ponder. Full length novel for mature, competent readers. |
| Someday Angeline |
LOUIS SACHAR
£4.99, Bloomsbury
Eight year old Angeline is a
very bright little girl, some might even say she is a genius. She is so clever she has been put up into the sixth grade, but while she is easily able to cope with the work (she often knows more than the teacher), she doesn't cope well with the other children who are much older and don't suck their thumbs or cry like she does. Her father is intimidated by her and doesn't know how to talk to her, but is determined to do the best he can for her 'someday'. No one realises how unhappy she is until she makes friends with a boy who makes her laugh and his strangely named teacher who takes an interest in her. Life improves until Angeline goes alone to see something she has always wanted to with disastrous results. This is an unusual and absorbing story with a nice mix of funny, sad and moving moments — you really feel for the characters, especially Angeline. Fair sized print, medium length novel.
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| A Day With Wilbur Robinson |
WILLIAM JOYCE
£5.99, Harper Collins
A wonderful, madcap picture book! Wilbur Robinson has to apologise to his visiting friend — it was a dull day in the Robinson house. Mind you, with snow in the East Wing, very big bugs around, flying saucers, an octopus, anti-gravity devices, a search for grandfather's teeth (not to mention the man himself) and a time machine being left on resulting in a dinosaur visit, I'm not sure I'd like to visit on an exciting day - I suppose it depends what you are used to! The words describe a mad enough visit, but the brilliantly stylised illustrations tell so much more. With a few sentences on every other page, it is good for encouraging newly confident readers, but I recommend it to all ages and abilities. I keep going back to enjoy it all over again!
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| Rogues' Gold |
JOHN PILKINGTON
£5.99, Usborne
The court of Queen Elizabeth I was full of intrigue, but boy actor Ben doesn't expect to get involved in it. When one of his fellow players is accused of theft during performance at a big house Ben is determined to prove his innocence. Matters are far more involved than they first seem and he becomes deeply involved in subterfuge in this action-packed step back in time. |
| Wildfire |
CHRIS RYAN
£5.99, Red Fox
Ben's holiday with his mum in Australia doesn't exactly turn out as he expected. First his mum is too involved with her environmental work to spend much time with him; then his stay in Adelade coincides with an enormous fire which threatens the whole of the city. Trying to fly over it in a microlight aeroplane is a difficult and dangerous thing to do, but is being on the ground a safer alternative? He also needs to find his mother who could be in greater danger. Everyone has to take their chances and hopefully make the right decisions to escape the burning inferno, but a group of activists present a further complication. This is an intense, atmospheric story - I could almost feel the smoke choking me as I read it. It is action packed with many tense moments. |
| Magic Tree House: Dragon Of The Red Dawn |
Mary Pope Osborne
£3.99, Random House Books
Merlin the Magician will not eat or sleep or speak to anyone in Camelot. What can be done? The enchantress Morgan knows who to ask for help: young Jack and Annie of Frog Creek, Pennsylvania! The brother-and-sister team quickly head off in the magic tree house on another magical and historical adventure.
Their mission: discover one of the four secrets of happiness.
Their journey: to a land of fierce samurai and great beauty, the capital city of Edo (now the city of Tokyo), in ancient Japan in the 1600s.
Their tools: a research book to guide them and a magic wand with three special rules.
In Dragon of the Red Dawn, Mary Pope Osborne transports readers back to the splendor, rich culture, and magic of traditional Japan. For readers aged four to eight years.
www.magictreehouse.co.uk
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| Unheard Voices |
Edited by Malorie Blackman
£5.99, Corgi
In March 1807, the British Parliament passed an Act making the trading and transportation of slaves illegal. It was many years before slavery, as it was known then, was abolished, and slavery still continues today in different ways, but it was a big step forward towards the empancipation of a people. Malorie Blackman has drawn together some of the finest of today's writers and poets to contribute to this important anthology. Their short stories and poems sit alongside first-hand accounts of slavery from freed slaves, making a fascinating and absorbing collection that remembers and commemorates one of the most brutal and long-lasting inflictions of misery that human beings have inflicted upon other human beings. Suitable for 11 years plus.
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| Chingles & The Vampire King, The |
Patricia Murphy
£5.99, Poolbeg Press
In their third holiday adventure on Inish Alainn, the Chingles have to take on the underworld of Eastern Europe when four babies, including their twin brother and sister and baby cousin, are kidnapped.
But not only are they up against Vladimir the evil crime lord, they discover that he really is in touch with the dark powers of the magical Underworld.
To find the missing babies they must enlist the help of Slavic gods and goddesses among the world of Eastern European mythology. They also have to take on the terrifying powers of the Baba Yaga, a hag who eats children.
But to rescue the babies the Chingles face their biggest battle yet – against the forces of the “undead”, a vast army of Vampires. |
| Something Invisible |
Siobhan Parkinson
£4.99, Penguin Books
Jake knows a lot of stuff.
He gobbles up encyclopedias but there are some things he just doesn't understand.
New people start appearing in Jake's life.
A baby sister arrives - and everything changes.
Then he meets a new friend - a girl called Stella from a large and slightly weird family. And then fate tests him, not once but twice.
Suddenly, the boy who knows so much has to work out if he actually knows the first thing about anything.
Nominated for the Children's Books Ireland Bisto Book Awards 2007. |
| Hurlamaboc |
Éilis Ní Dhuibhne
€10.00, www.coislife.ie
The adventures of three teenagers living in the Dublin suburbs - Ruán, Emma and Colm. All neighbours of the same age but with different personalities, backgrounds, and social class, preparing for the Leaving Cert. An accident turns everything on its head. They get to know one another better and after all the hurlamaboc have grown and developed.
Every teenager will recognise Rúan, Emma and Colm. They will enjoy their company as they grow through their adventures. The book offers an insight into the social prejudices and bigotry in Ireland today. This is a readable, inspiring and humorous novel which will be enjoyed by all, young and old alike.
Eachtraí triúr déagóirí i mbruachbhaile i mBaile Átha Cliath - Ruán, Emma agus Colm. Comharsana ar comhaois, iad ar fad ag ullmhú don Ardteist, ach éagsúil ó thaobh cúlra, aicme agus pearsantachta. Cuireann timpiste gach rud bunoscionn. Cuireann siad aithne níos fearr ar a chéile agus i ndiaidh an hurlamaboc go léir, tá fás agus forbairt tagtha orthu.
Aithneoidh gach déagóir Ruán, Emma agus Colm. Bainfidh siad pléisiúr as a bheith ina dteannta ina gcuid eachtraí fáis. Tugtar léargas géar sa leabhar ar an seoinínteacht agus ar na réamhchlaonta atá i réim in Éirinn inniu. Úrscéal greannmhar, soléite, spreagúil a mbainfidh an uile léitheoir idir óg agus aibí, sult as.
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| Fourth Horseman, The |
Kate Thompson
£5.99, Red Fox
The first time Laurie and her dad see the white rider watching them from the deep, cool shadows of the trees, he is alone. Laurie is convinced that his appearance has a meaning, that somehow he is trying to tell them something - something her dad needs to pay attention to. Is the rider somehow linked to the genetic research into squirrels that Laurie is helping her dad with in the lab? When a second rider with a bloody sword appears alongside the first, and then a third and a fourth, Laurie knows she must try to understand who they are and what they represent. With the help of her brother and his best friend, she discovers what the riders mean but will it be too late to stop the inevitable chain of events that has been set in motion ...?Released on 7th June and shortlisted for the Children's Books Ireland Bisto Awards 2007. |
| Spooky Sums and Counting Horrors |
REBECCA COBB
£9.99, Marion Boyars pubs Hb
An inventive and entertaining way of doing sums. Join the spooks, witches and skeletons at their Hallowe'en party and work out the counting puzzle on each page. Gorgeously illustrated and lots of fun for younger children. |
| A Dictionary of Monsters & Mysterious Beasts |
CAREY MILLER
£6.99, Barn Owl
Want to know more about Dracula, Cyclops, mermaids
or Frankenstein's monster? These and many more mythical monsters from around the world are all described here
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| I Can See You |
NICK SHADOW
£4.99, Hodder
Three really spine-tingling stories in one book — definitely not for the faint hearted. Read about Michael who joins in with his new classmates' annual spooky 'game', against his better judgement; the girl who gets mood ring that seems to dictate her mood and the children who would rather not find out why members of their family have disappeared. One of the Midnight Library series — don't expect any happy endings! For older, competent readers.
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| Oliver Moon and the Potion Commotion |
SUE MONGREDIEN
£3.99, Usborne
First in a new series about this aspiring young I wizard. Oliver loves his family but they aren't I traditional witches and wizards, preferring modern I inventions and fashions. Oliver reluctantly accepts I this until he finds he is in the running for the Young I Wizard of the Year award. A visit to the family is I part of the judging — can he transform them and his home in time? Lots of fun and magic in this amusing book. Fair sized print and lots of pictures. |
| Ghosts |
RICHARD BRASSEY
£10.99, Orion Hb
Some people believe in ghosts, others don't. This book tells you some illustrated ghost stories through the ages, some in comic strip fashion, as well as general information. It leaves you to make up your own mind.
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| Ghosts Unlimited |
ANDREW FUESK PETERS
£4.99, Oxford
Follow ghost loving Fred to Ghost school and back with these poems, jokes and riddles. Full of grizzly and funny illustrations, these are great to read aloud. |
| Make Your Own Creepy Castle |
CLARE BEATON
£4.99, b small pubs
Fun and easy way to create your own castle and rounds in colourful card with loads of figures to colour in and put in it. There are also castle facts; a story for you to read and act out and advice on dressing for a spooky horror party.
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| Alone on a Wide, Wide Sea |
MICHAEL MORPURGO
£12.99, Harper Collins Hb
Between 1947 and 1967 thousands of British orphaned children like Arthur were sent to Australia, hopefully to give them a better life. For some it did, but unfortunately Arthur was one of the many who faced a future of coldness and cruelty. This is the story of his very eventful life with periods of great sadness mixed with those of extreme happiness. Through it all he hangs on to his one memory of his real family — a key given to him by his sister, although he sometimes wonders if he imagined her. He plans to go back someday and discover the truth about his past. This is storytelling at it's best - the reader is really drawn in experiencing all the highs and lows with the characters. Full length novel for capable readers. |
| Worms (Dirty Bertie) |
ALAN MACDONALD / DAVID ROBERTS
£3.99, Stripes
New series, 'Dirty Bertie', where the main character certainly lives up to his name — and that isn't the only thing that gets him into trouble! Imagine his horror when he is the only boy invited to Angela's PINK birthday party. When all his plans to avoid it go wrong he goes in a fancy dress, but will everyone appreciate it? See how a dare at school goes horribly wrong as does his valiant attempts to become a bin man. Whatever happens you can be sure Bertie has a plan — even if it is rather bizarre! Three very funny stories in one book with large print and quite a few pictures for newly confident or reluctant readers. There are three more Bertie stories in 'Flea' which is also out now |
| Tim the Tiny Horse |
HARRY HILL
£9.99, FF hb
"Tim the Tiny Horse was so small the blacksmith had to make his shoes from paperclips". This doesn't stop him having fun with his friend Fly, or opinions on all sorts of things such as television, the radio and Fly's girlfriend — who Tim does not get on with. He does like Anna Ford, even though his attempts to meet her don't go according to plan. This is a very whimsical book, as you would expect from a comedian author, but it is also astutely observed with moments of pathos. At first glance it is deceivingly simple with just a few sentences and lots of amusing and revealing pictures on each page. But the humour works on many levels giving it an appeal for all ages including adults, and It is great to read aloud. I keep going back for another look!
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| Artemis Fowl and the Lost Colony |
EOIN COLFER
£12.99, Puffin Hb
Artemis returns a little older and slightly different. Could puberty be making him more considerate? Luckily it hasn't affected his powers of deduction. He knows a banished colony of demons is about to return to earth, and he isn't the only one. There seems to be another very intelligent young human who knows about the existence of fairies and is showing similar scheming abilities. Once again Artemis and Holly team up to face danger, getting closer than ever. This is full of the usual appealing mix of adventure, magic and comedy with a few shocks thrown in. We meet some interesting new characters and watch well loved ones develop. This series goes from strength to strength. Full length novel with fair sized print.
Visit the virtual world of Artemis Fowl for the inside story on the main characters, top activities, ecards, all the latest news and much more at www.artemisfowl.co.uk
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| The Princess and the Pea |
LAUREN CHILD & POLLY BORLAND
£6.99, Puffin
A witty retelling of the fairy story. When a handsome prince declares his intention of only marrying someone he loves his parents agree — as long as she is a Princess. However, none of the Princesses they introduce him to come up to his expectations. Then one stormy night a beautiful stranger turns up at their door. The Prince finds her very interesting, but she fails the Queen's 'real princess' test. Has the Queen forgotten that real princesses have impeccable manners and don't complain? This is a lovely story beautifully and unusually illustrated by photos of cut out figures placed in real settings. Small print with lots of sentences on each page for readers who are gaining confidence in their own ability. |
| Kiss of Death |
MALCOLM ROSE
£5.99, Usborne
On a school trip to the village of Eyam where villagers sacrificed themselves to stop the spread of the plague in 1666, Seth is fascinated and moved by its history. His twin, Kim, and friend Wes are more interested in the money left by the villagers to pay for their food. While taking that, however, they also take a piece of lead with a love message on it for one of the victims. Selling the coins gives them a taste for getting more 'easy money'. Despite Seth's pleas, they ignore warnings that the love token should be returned and a curse they pick up. Soon both Kim and Wes are struck down with an increasingly horrible and debilitating illness. The doctors are baffled, but Seth begins to suspect they had got more than just money from the past and only he can save them from a horrible
death. This is a really gripping story — I couldn't put it down. It is fast-paced, full of nail biting moments and more than one shock — not for the squeamish. Fair sized print,
medium length novel for mature readers |
| Double or Die (Young Bond) |
Charlie Higson
£6.99, Puffin
The third Young Bond novel has lost none of the pace and excitement of its predecessors. A letter sent to James' room mate, Pritpal, by a professor at Eton who has left suddenly seems to contain some rather strange passages and obvious mistakes. On closer examination it seems the crossword mad professor had filled his letter with clues to his leaving — which wasn't by choice — and involves a plot that risks national security. The boys have a limited time to work out the clues and save the professor which needs some dedicated thinking and a great deal of bravado. It pits James against ruthless enemies who develop a personal grudge against him and give him some near death experiences. We also see him begin to develop some of the adult Bond traits. Very well-written page turner with plenty of breath¬taking action. Full length novel for capable readers.
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| Nemesis Into the Shadows |
CATHERINE MACPHAIL
£5.99, Bloomsbury
Ram has little time to worry when he wakes up with absolutely no memory. His discovery of a dying, bloodsoaked man eager to tell his confusing last words sends Ram on the run mistaken for the murderer. As if that isn't bad enough, after more than one near death experience he realises it isn't just the police who are after him. His need to discover who he is must wait until he can solve the murder to put him out of danger. Meanwhile a young rookie policeman starts to realise he has uncovered a conspiracy and he is also at risk. This is an excellent read. A really gripping mixture of thriller and whodunnit with a fast paced, complicated but understandable plotline. The characters are well drawn and share the narrative giving a nicely rounded view. There are two mysteries to solve — who is Ram and what is going on around him? One is solved, the other is ready to carry on to the next book |
| The Killer Cat Strikes Back |
ANNE FINE
£7.99, Puffin
Living with Tuffy, the Killer Cat, Ellie's family should know not
to cross him or try and trick him into doing things ... but it
seems Tuffy is going to have to teach them all over again! He
can be very destructive when he takes against something -
but not when it's obvious that's what others want him to do.
However, when doing something Ellie's father wants him to
will result in Tuffy getting something he wants, he is faced
with a dilemma. More very funny moments from the
awkward, self-centred cat. I'm glad he doesn't live with me!
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| Bruno: A Very Clever Basset Hound |
GUY HALLIFAX
£9.95, Robinswood
Bruno is a basset hound puppy. Although the smallest of the litter he is clever enough to get himself noticed and is given a home by Harry, Caz and family. Once there he becomes a family favourite — even Caz, who is unimpressed by everything, has difficulty hiding a smile when Bruno is around. Enjoy the slight misunderstanding over some biscuits; Bruno's introduction to snow and the ingenious way he manages to make himself comfortable in these three short stories, which include Bruno's own thoughts. An amusing and intuitive look at the relationship between boy and dog full of lively illustrations. Picture book with fairly small print and quite a few sentences on each page for those gaining confidence in their reading. |
| Pete The Sheep |
JACKIE FRENCH
£5.99, Harper Collins
Shaun, the new sheepshearer, surprises everyone by having a sheep-sheep called Pete instead of a sheepdog. Shaun and Pete are very popular with the sheep who don't want anyone else to shear them, but not the other shearers and Shaun is soon out of a job. Being bored, he gives Pete a fancy new cut, which is so admired by the other sheep Shaun sets up a sheep salon. The other shearers aren't happy, especially when their dogs go missing. There is only one way to solve this problem and you'll have to read this hilarious picture book to find out what it is! I love this book with it's simple, but expressive illustrations adding so much to the story. A few sentences on each page help newly developing readers, but it's great for all ages and abilities. |
| Den of Thieves |
JULIA GOLDING
£8.99, Egmont Hb
We meet up with Cat Royal as her whole world is about
to change. Her home, The Theatre Royal, is being pulled
down and most of her friends I are off to far flung places.
She finds herself homeless and too proud to ask her remaining friends for help. When her first attempt to live independently goes horribly wrong, she accepts an offer to go to France and report back on events. As the French Revolution is gaining momentum at the time, this turns out to be far more dangerous than she could imagine. She is captured by vagabonds and the authorities in quick succession and isn't sure which is worse. Will her new acquaintances prove to be loyal, or could they be plotting against her as well? This third book in this captivating series keeps up the fast, breath-taking pace. It brilliantly captures the atmosphere of eighteenth century London and Paris — you really feel you are there, which makes it all the more exciting. A gripping read. Fair sized print for those ready to try a longer novel.
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| Korski Code, The |
PETE JOHNSON
£4.99, Puffin
Twins Sam and Ella have fallen out, which is a shame because they need all the comfort they can get. Not only because their parents have died but they are living with their heartless aunt and uncle who make them work all hours in their hotel. When she finds herself in danger, Ella uses the special connection she has with her twin to send him a thought message. As they start to get closer again, they make another discovery — their connection gives them very special powers, which they soon realise can be used to do good. It is a timely discovery as they become mixed up with some unscrupulous people who will stop at nothing to get what they want. An exciting, action packed start to a new series: 2 Power. I'm looking forward to the next one. Each chapter has a page of striking pictures illustrating the action in it, which combined with fairly large print encourages readers on to medium length novels. |
| Daisy Dawson is on her way |
STEVE VOAKE
£3.99, Walker
Daisy is a real daydreamer who loves talking to the animals she meets — imagine her surprise when one morning they talk back. This newly discovered ability comes in handy when her dog friend, Boom, disappears. The other animals can tell her what has happened to him, but will she be able to rescue him even with their help? Read this touching and exciting story to find out. With fair sized print and quite a few illustrations it is great for readers ready to go on to slightly longer than first novels. |
| The Dressed-up Giant |
KAYE UMANSKY
£4.50, Barn Owl
Another episode in the life of Giant Waldo and his girlfriend Heavy Hetty as they prepare to go to a wedding. Hetty is determined to smarten Waldo up and buys him new clothes. She thinks he looks great in them but poor Waldo feels very uncomfortable, however he wears them to please her. Waldo's new look suffers somewhat after he gallantly rescues Hetty's hat, will it spoil the day? Amusing story with pictures and a few sentences on each page to encourage new readers onto short novels. |
| I Don't Like Gloria! |
KAYE UMANSKY
£10.99, Walker Hb
Poor Colin the dog is really put out when cat Gloria moves into his home. She not only gets all the attention, but when he tells her off for pinching his food and cushion it's Colin who is told off. He really doesn't like Gloria — but they eventually find something they can agree on. You'll have to read this very funny and quite touching picture book to find out what it is. It may make you think about how you treat your pets. Large print and just a couple of sentences on each page make it perfect for beginner readers, but fun for all abilities. |
| Starring Tracy Beaker |
JACQUELINE WILSON
£12.99, Doubleday Hb
Tracy has to try and curb her temper and be on her
best behaviour to keep her part in the school play,
which as you can imagine is not easy for her! She
desperately wants her mother to see her do well in
the play. Going by past experience even if she can
hang on to her part, there is no guarantee her mother
will show up. Her need to see and impress her mother I
blinkers Tracy to how much time and effort her future foster mother, Cam, and others are giving her. Will she get her wish or will it end in a big disappointment for her? This pacey new story about the popular character is a clever mixture of humour and pathos. We become totally involved in Tracy's life while being able to see things more clearly than she does, but it's no good shouting at her, she will go her own way! Large print for those ready for full length novels
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| H.I.V.E. |
Mark Walden
£12.99, Bloomsbury
Despite being an orphan abandoned as a baby, thirteen year old Otto has done rather well for f. Realising at an early age the advantage having a photographic memory afforded him, he had the orphanage he lived in running exactly as he wanted and was prepared to use any means to keep it that way. After orchestrating one huge illegal event he wakes up on the way to H.I.V.E., the Higher Institute of Villainous Education which aims to teach him, and other carefully chosen children, to become top notch criminals. As if that wasn't a big enough surprise they won't be allowed to leave or have any contact with the - outside world for six years. The whole set up is strange and impressive but Otto is determined to get out as soon as he can. An extremely difficult task even with help. This is an unputdownable book full of fascinating characters. The eventful story gathers pace to reach a fast moving, nail biting climax, which leaves enough unanswered questions for a sequel — which I hope will follow! Fair sized print, full length novel.
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| Great American Mousical, The |
JULIE ANDREWS EDWARDS/ EMMA WALTON HAMILTON
£9.99, Puffin
Unbeknown to the performers and patrons of the Sovereign Theatre on Broadway a tiny replica theatre in the basement is home to a troupe of theatrical mice preparing for their own show. Rehearsals are in their usual chaotic state when the mice learn the full size theatre has been sold and is going to be demolished. They are determined that if this is to be their last show it will be a good one, but the disappearance of their leading lady is a real problem. 'The show must go on' — but how? There are more than a few surprises in store for everyone. This is a real adventure story which also gives an insight into life backstage and shows anyone can make a difference - no matter what size you are! Fair sized print and quite a few pictures for those ready to try medium length novels. |
| Princess Pearl |
GILES ANDREAE / SOPHY WILLIAMS
£5.99, Orchard
Being blind, Princess Pearl can't see the splendours of the ocean palace she lives in, but she uses her other senses to
compensate. She is also helped by Charis, a servant boy from the islands above the water. As they grow up together Pearl realises Charis misses his own world and leads him back for the first of many visits where he finds flowers and other natural gifts for her to enjoy. Charis loves her and is heartbroken when it seems their idyllic lifestyle is to end when the grown up Pearl is told by her parents she must choose one of two suitors to marry. Are either worthy of her? Find out in this enchanting book with beautiful pictures, small print and quite a few sentences on each page.
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| George and the Dragon |
CHRIS WORMELL
£7.99, Red Fox
The mighty, invincible dragon living in the mountains has just captured his latest princess when his new neighbour moves in to the cave next door. Poor unsuspecting George the mouse isn't keen on his new home and needs a nice cup of tea, but hasn't any sugar. He naturally decides to pop next door to borrow some... there are surprises in store and it doesn't look as if George will get that cup of tea! This is a very funny picture book with vivid, dramatic illustrations and a great ending. With large print and a few sentences on each page it is perfect for beginner readers and this version comes with a CD of the story read by Brian Blessed so they can follow the action. But it's fun for all ages and abilities. |
| Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, The |
John Boyne
£5.65, David Fickling Books
Winner of the 2007 Irish Children's Book of the Year - Senior Category.
Nine year-old Bruno knows nothing of the Final Solution or the Holocaust. He is oblivious to the appalling cruelties being inflicted on the people of Europe by his country. All he
knows is that he has been moved from a comfortable home in Berlin to a house in a desolate area where there is nothing to do and no-one to play with. Until he meets Shmuel, a boy who lives a strange parallel existence on the other side of the adjoining wire fence and who, like the other people there, wears a uniform of striped pyjamas.
Bruno's friendship with Shmuel will take him from innocence to revelation. And in exploring what he is unwittingly a part of, he will inevitably become subsumed by the terrible process. |
| Incredible Book-Eating Boy, The |
Oliver Jeffers
£10.99, Harper Collins
This is the mouth-wateringly irresistible tale of a boy's insatiable hunger! Henry loves books...but not like you and I. He loves to Eat books! This exciting new story follows the trials and tribulations of a boy with a voracious appetite for books. Henry discovers his unusual taste by mistake one day, and is soon swept up in his new-found passion - gorging on every delicious book in sight! And better still, he realises that the more books he eats, the smarter he gets. Henry dreams of becoming the Incredible Book Eating Boy; the smartest boy in the world! But a book-eating diet isn't the healthiest of habits, as Henry soon finds out...
Irish Children's Book of the Year - Junior Category nominee in the Children's Books Ireland Bisto Awards.
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| Who Are You Stripy Horse? |
Jim Helmore and Karen Wall
£10.99, Egmont Books
The perfect picture book this Easter!
One starry night, in a long forgotten shop, something magical was about to happen. A stuffed and stripy horse let out an enormous dusty sneeze and woke himself up...
And so begins this magical picture book about a stuffed toy trying to find out who he is and what he is. With a little help from some extraordinary creatures, he finds the answers in the most unexpected place.
This story, by Sheffield Book Award winners Karen Wall and Jim Helmore, is for all those children who imagine things come to life when the world is fast asleep.
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| My Sister's got a Spoon Up her Nose! |
Jeremy Strong illus. Rowan Clifford
£1.00, Penguin
7 - 9 years
"How was I to know Tomato would put the spoon up her nose instead of on it?" Nicholas's sister has had a cutlery related incident - and it's more dangerous than it sounds. Now his Dad's taking part in the hospital's Three Mile Challenge - and that means beating the dreaded Mr Tugg! How could one spoon cause so much trouble? |
| Vampirates: Dead Deep |
Justin Somper
£1.00, SIMON & SCHUSTER CHILDREN’S BOOKS
10+ years
Connor Tempest and his pirate buddies are in the mood for adventure, so when a mysterious crew offers to teach them to freedive, they jump at the chance. But under the water, danger is lurking… and it’s going to take everything the pirates have got to get out alive.
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| Tiara Club, The: Princess Megan and the Magical Tiara |
Vivian French illus. Sarah Gibb
£1.00, HACHETTE CHILDREN’S BOOKS
5-8 years
Princess Megan is so excited about going to the Princess Academy! She can’t wait to make new friends and wear her special tiara at the Tiara Ball. But the horrible twins Diamonde and Gruella try to spoil everything – will they succeed?
|
| Selfish Crocodile Counting Book, The |
Michael Terry
£2.50, BLOOMSBURY
A sturdy board book that will help every child to learn their numbers from one to ten – with the help of the snappy and ever-popular Selfish Crocodile. The perfect introduction to numbers and counting.
0 - 5 years |
| Let the Snog Fest Begin! |
Louise Rennison
£1.00, HARPERCOLLINS CHILDREN’S BOOKS
Georgia shares her hilarious tips on how to hang on to your Luurve God. You need to look groovy and keep your cool at all times! Which can be tricky if you’re prone to fashion disasters, have the most embarrassing family in the world ever, and are yourself, quite possibly, certifiably insane…
11+ years |
| Diamond Brothers: I Know What You Did Last Wednesday |
Anthony Horowitz
£3.99, WALKER
There's been a murder! But fear not – the Diamond Brothers are on the case (although, being the world's worst private detectives, they probably won't get far!) Mystery, suspense and jokes collide in this side-splitting thriller from the Diamond Brothers series, by the creator of Alex Rider.
9+ years
|
| Astrosaurs: Teeth of the T-Rex |
Steve Cole
£2.99, Steve Cole
Teggs is no ordinary dinosaur – he’s an ASTROSAUR! Captain of the amazing spaceship DSS Sauropod, he fights evil along with his faithful crew! In this fantastic addition to a bestselling series, Teggs answers a call for help from a wrecked ship - only to fall into a terrible T.Rex trap!
7-9 years |
| Battle of the Somme |
Arthur McKeown
£3.99, Poolbeg
It is 1914 and the Great War has begun. Roy is a young farmer in County Antrim. "Everyone must fight if they can, Roy," said Willy. "Don't worry. It won't be a long war. You'll be home for Christmas!" Instead, Roy lives for months in the cold and mud of the trenches, waiting to go into action. Then one day Roy gets his chance to fight . . . in the great and terrible Battle of the Somme. This easy reader account for children will grip young children from age six years, with illustrations and simple text on each page and a final chapter that links the past with the present easily. |
| Who’s Toby Tucker? |
Val Wilding
£4.99, Egmont
Move over Dr Who, there’s a new time traveller on the block! Orphan Toby Tucker lives with his lovely foster parents but doesn’t know very much about his real family or his heritage…until some incredible magic happens and Toby travels back in time and actually becomes one of his ancestors! All six titles of the Toby Tucker mystery are released this month and appeal hugely to seven to 10 year olds. |
| My Very Own Never Fairy Activity Book |
Disney
£3.99, Harper Collins
Looking for the perfect gift for 6 – 11 year old girls, then look no further! This delightful new miniature library includes five fairy sized books, all about their favourite Never Fairies and their home, Pixie Hollow. Find out all about tink, Fira, Prilla, Beck and Rani in these beautifully illustrated little books.
In My Very Own Never Fairy Activity Book, fairy fans can draw their fairy and use four pages of stickers to give her a great new outfit. The Fairy also needs a name, a talent and a whole room in Home Tree to become part of the magical world of fairies. |
| Wizzbang Wizard: Dragon danger and Grasshopper Glue |
Scoular Anderson
£4.99, Harper Collins
Perfect for six to eight year old children learning to read, using short chapters and illustrations on each page to bridge the gap between picture book and novel. Great value stories with two books in one volume, these dragon filled stories will appeal to boys and girls who will relate to the Freddy and Jakaranda characters in both tales. |
| Junkyard Dragon, The |
Beth Webb
£5.99, Lion Hudson
Tomboyish heroine six year old Daisy is desperate for a dragon for her birthday, but where can she find one of those? When Daisy’s mum comes up trumps on the day, Daisy discovers that a little love and imagination is the greatest gift of all.
A jaw-snapping, scale-rattling, wing-beating super new picture story book with quirky illustrations that will grab your attention as well as that of your child’s! |
| The Price of Victory |
Stewart Ross
£7.65, DK Publishing
An exciting new series from DK, featuring thrilling graphic tales combined with lively illustrations, timelines and locator maps. Each book is guaranteed to capture children’s interest whilst developing their reading skills and general knowledge. Using contemporary graphics with amazing ‘Did You Know’ facts linking the novel to actual incidents from the past, plus a glossary section. A great series at level 4 for children competent at reading, each text is rich in vocabulary with challenging sentences, alphabetical glossary and index plus additional notes. Travel back to ancient Egypt in ‘Curse of the Crocodile God’; witness a tale of rivalry and sabotage at the Olympic Games with ‘The Price of Victory’; meet a brother and sister sold into slavery in ‘The Terror Trail’; or visit ancient China in ‘Instruments of Death’. |
| Follow the Swallow |
Julia Donaldson
£10.99, Egmont
A brand new picture book from the immensely popular author of the The Gruffalo. Naturally rhythmic words show the four seasons through heart warming and humorous characters by Pam Smy’s vivid watercolours. Apollo the Swallow and Chack the Blackbird meet in the garden as fledglings learning to fly and cement their friendship forever. There is something for every child in these stories of the natural world – from garden birds to monkeys, crocodiles and camels.
Primary Times and Egmont are giving away copies of this wonderful new book to five lucky readers. Send your name, address and school name before 13th April 2007 to: Primary Times South, Kilcalf, Tallow, Co. Waterford.
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