1		Cave Baby Julia Donaldson Best-selling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has teamed up with prize-winning illustrator Emily Gravett to create a wonderfully witty story about a cheeky little Cave Baby. When the Cave Baby scribbles on the walls of his cave he is … Download free opening extract
2		Guess Who Says Moo? My Little Book of Riddles Leonie Shearing This perfect introduction to farm animals combines some absolutely charming illustrations with the ever-popular flip-the-flaps, creating a fun guessing game for the very young. Farm and farm animal words are introduced in a really fun way. … Download free opening extract
3		Dogs Emily Gravett Shortlisted for the Independent Booksellers’ Book Prize 2010. Prize-winning illustrator Emily Gravett delights with another wonderful new book. Apparently a celebration of dogs of all kind, this is also a book with a witty twist at the end. Gorgeous pictures of … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		The Rabbit Problem Emily Gravett A Useful book about Families. An outstandingly original and entertaining book packed full of rabbitty details and a feast of novelty features that makes it all the more fun to read again and again and again. The Rabbit Problem shows … Download free opening extract
2		Just Because Rebecca Elliott This is a book that deserves a place on the nursery bookshelf to be read and reread time and time again by parents and children alike.  It helps children to recognise that everyone is different.  Both heartfelt and loving it … Download free opening extract
3		Cub’s First Winter Rebecca Elliott Within this snuggly bedtime story there is an excellent introduction to looking at nature. It is Cub’s first winter and he wants to learn everything he can about it. Mum gives him lyrical answers to his many questions as she … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Ruby Nettleship and the Ice Lolly Adventure Thomas Docherty This is a magical adventure in which a drab landscape is transformed into a place of beauty and delight. Ruby’s playground is rundown; nothing works except for one swing for which there is always a long queue. One day, Ruby … Download free opening extract
2		Play the Shape Game Anthony Browne Take a shape and transform it into something new…Top names, including Jo Brand, Quentin Blake, Jacqueline Wilson, Phillip Pullman, Imelda Staunton, Anthony Horowitz, Sir Peter Blake, Linford Christie and Andrew Motion, have played Anthony Browne’s Shape Game and left a new shape … Download free opening extract
3		Vile A Cautionary Tale for Little Monsters Mark Robinson This is a terrific Cautionary Tale for mischievous kids demonstrating as it does that perhaps life’s not so great when spent solely in the pursuit of vileness  And when two of the pupils of the University of Vile discover that … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Dead Man’s Cove: Laura Marlin Mysteries 1 Lauren St.John Feisty orphan Laura Marlin is rescued from her life in a children’s home by her mysterious uncle Calvin. Laura loves everything about her new life in Cornwall but soon realises that it is full of secrets. Laura’s sharp observation and … Download free opening extract
2		Find Chaffy Jamie Smart Join in the search for the missing Chaffies! Ten loveable Chaffies have wandered off into the world and someone needs to set out and find where they are hiding! Join in the search for these delightful creatures among a graveyard … Download free opening extract
3		The Good Green Lunchbox: Tasty, Healthy Lunches and Picnics Jocelyn Miller This is the book to help you and the children give what you eat an eco-makeover! It’s a make-and-do book and contains 16 ideas for tasty and healthy lunches and picnics, which at the same time highlight a range of … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Witches at War: The Wickedest Witch Martin Howard Full of dark humour in fact seriously funny this is the start of a series that should not be missed and packaged in a terrific small hardback format.  There is great anticipation in the witching world as the Wicked Witch … Download free opening extract
2		Eating Things on Sticks Anne Fine Shortlisted for Roald Dahl’s Funny Prize 2009. . Prize-winning Children’s Laureate Anne Fine is more entertaining than anyone else about families. Creating circumstances in which everything possible can go wrong, she delights her readers with bizarre situations that are hugely entertaining. … Download free opening extract
3		Midnight on Lundy Victoria Eveleigh This is Victoria Eveleigh’s fourth novel, her first three all feature an Exmoor pony called Trifle.  This one however, is set, first on Lundy Island* and then on the mainland in Devon.  Heart-rending but ultimately uplifting it will at times … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Reckless Cornelia Funke This title is published in September 2010 but we have an exclusive extract to whet your appetite.  Best-selling author Cornelia Funke whose Inkheart was a world-wide phenomenon has created a wonderful new imaginary world peopled with a gigantic cast of … Download free opening extract
2		Raven’s Gate (Power of Five) Graphic Novel Anthony Horowitz The long-awaited graphic-novel adaptation of the No. 1 bestseller Raven’s Gate, from the creator of Alex Rider, Anthony Horowitz.  A sinister and incredibly atmospheric story of the supernatural; first of five in the Power of Five series. Matt has always … Download free opening extract
3		Dark Life Kat Falls This is a debut novel that won’t disappoint.  Set in a world where the rising oceans have taken over continents and there are humans living on the small tracts of land that remain whilst others have moved under the sea … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The 10pm Question Kate De Goldi This is a warm, surprising, quirky, yet real and intelligent novel you will fall in love with. It’s a coming of age tale of Frankie Parsons, a twelve year old boy (who thinks and acts much older) who worries incessantly … Download free opening extract
2		Hunger Michael Grant This paperback edition will be available in September 2010. Here’s what Hugh (14), one of our teenage reviewers think of Hunger: Hunger, like it’s prequel Gone was unputdownable. It’s an excellent follow-up to an original idea. More children are developing powers and the … Download free opening extract
3		Whisper My Name Jane Eagland This is an incredibly eerie and chilling story of 16 year old Meriel Garland who is trapped in her grandfather’s strict regime of study and silence.  It’s a narrow, solitary existence, yet Meriel doesn’t always feel alone for someone is … Download free opening extract

Tell your friends about Lovereading and get money off books

Do you know anyone who would love Lovereading? Why not tell them about us using our handy recommendation engine? For the next few months for every friend who becomes a Lovereading member we’ll award you 5 LoveHearts; our way of saying thank you for spreading the word on Lovereading.

Each LoveHeart is worth £0.50. You can build up a collection of LoveHearts in your account, and choose when you want to convert them into a book voucher – redeemable at our online shop. It’s easy to see how many LoveHearts you have. Just login to your account.

This month’s Highlights

Exclusive Opportunity to Discover Pre-Publication Titles

September and October is traditionally the time when the established authors release their new books and we feel very privileged to be cleared to run some exclusive pre-publication extracts on some eagerly awaited new novels. Below are three that we think should not be missed.

Reckless – Cornelia Funke

11+ and 14+ An extraordinary fantasy thriller set between two worlds linked by a mirror: the real world of today and a dark fairytale place, where modern technology has disastrously mixed with magic, resulting in war and corruption. It is utterly compelling.

Annexed – Sharon Dogar

14+ With absolute clarity, compassion and accuracy, Annexed, told through the voice of Peter van Pels, offers its readers an entirely new perspective on the most famous diary ever written. Anne’s diary tragically ends suddenly, but Annexed takes the reader on into Auschwitz and into the concentration camp at Mathausen where Peter died.

Lies – Michael Grant

14+ The Human Crew pitched against the Mutants in a fast paced, alternate reality teen thriller which Stephen King described as “torrential narrative” and “great fiction”.

Lies is the 3rd in the Gone series and we have them all on Lovereading4kids.

Graphic Novels – bringing books to life

Graphic novels have really taken off in the last few years. Much more than comics they have been shown to helpreluctant readers start to love books and for confident readers, the illustrations can bring a new dimension to the reading experience. On Lovereading4kids we have a whole section ofthe site dedicated to this growing genre split by age and this month don’t miss the graphic novel version of Anthony Horowitz’s new supernatural series Raven’s Gate.

Fascinating Facts – understand more about the world around you

Our Fascinating Facts category includes titles that children of all ages can really get their teeth into and enjoy whilst also filling up their brain with useful facts to help them better understand our amazing world. New this month for 7+ readers we have the vividly illustrated Infinity series helping to understand nature and the world around us and for 5+ the Henry’s House that is full of information on everything from Romans to Space!

We also have dozens of other titles for all ages so get clicking and discovering today.

Help is at hand for budding writers The new Children’s Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook is out…

If you’re a budding children’s writer or illustrator, this annual publication is an essential companion and overview of the publishing industry. With a wealth of practical information and articles by leading authors, illustrators and media experts, this book will answer your every question, from copyright issues to the latest trends in fiction.

Back to School – get a head start on the new academic year

While your children are enjoying their holidays, it’s a good idea to keep one eye on the future. Our Back to School category has been revamped with all the dictionaries, bilingual and reference titles you’ll need to give kids, of any age, a flying head start when the new academic year begins.

Exclusive Book prizes up for grabs

Wimpy Kid film prizes, £100 worth of school reference books and exclusive signed picture books are just some of the brilliant prizes up for grab this month.

Find out more in our Free Prize Draws area and remember to come back every month to have a chance to win.

Always wanted to be a Children’s Author? … The Times Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition.

Are you a secret storyteller? Now’s the time to let your talent out into the open! The Times and Chicken House are on a mission to find another great undiscovered children’s writer, whose novel will be published by Chicken House around the world. Closing date for entries is last mail delivery October 29, 2010. The prize includes a £10,000 advance and is too good an opportunity to let go by. Dig out those old ideas and get writing!

Now in its 4th year they are looking for new entries. All details can be found here:

100 free books to give away – first clicked first served!

We have 100 copies of The Wickedest Witch to giveaway. Children aged 9+ will be enthralled by this gripping story with fantastic names for all the witches – Diabolica Nightshade, Tiffany Toadlick and Cakula von Drakula to name but a few and the illustrations add a lovely dimension.

The sequel is published in October, it’s called White Wand and we have a pre-pub extract exclusively on Lovereading4kids. What are you waiting for?

It’s a great month then, to discover new titles and old favourites and where better to do so than Lovereading. We’ve highlighted some real gems below to suit a variety of ages but don’t forget our Summer Reading selection that is chock full of great reads for babies and toddlers right through to teenagers.

Author of the Month, Michael Grant

American born Michael Grant has taken the US by storm over the last year and now his UK fan base is growing fast too. All because of his addictive teen novel series ‘Gone’ – think Lord of the Flies combined with the hit TV show Heroes. So, with the second and third in the series, Hunger (in paperback) and Lies (in hardback), coming in September we thought it was the perfect opportunity to make him our Author of the Month.

So if you’re looking for an unputdownable read for a boy or a girl from 12 upwards then give them the first one – Gone – to read during August and they’ll then be ready for 2 and 3 in September.

Books of the Month for August

As we said above, our basket is crammed with fabulous titles this month for children of all ages to enjoy including books from Eoin Colfer, Alex Scarrow, Lauren St John, Nick Sharratt, Thomas Docherty and Mary Hoffman. It’s impossible to pick one out, but to whet your appetite; we have been very excited by Julia Donaldson’s Cave Baby – our MEGA book of the month! Julia (author of the much-loved The Gruffalo) has teamed up with award-winning illustrator, Emily Gravett, to create this fabulous tale, in which a hairy mammoth takes a cheeky little baby on a thrilling ride through a moonlit landscape populated by exotic animals. And, for slightly older readers a page-turning horsey tale from tiny publisher, Tortoise Books called Midnight on Lundy. Whether you’ve ever been to Lundy Island (it’s in the Bristol Channel) or not this novel for 7+ year olds is absolutely not to be missed. Finding nuggets such as this one away from the world of big publishing makes our job here at Lovereading all the more enjoyable.

“When I grow Up I want to be a Writer and an Artist” Our Illustrator of the Month – Rebecca Elliott

This quote from one of Rebecca’s school projects hinted at what was to come. Rebecca remembers endlessly boring her long-suffering family with ill-conceived stories she had written about rabbits wearing flat caps and aliens flying around in suitcases.

It has all paid off though, because that childhood dream is now a reality, with her first three picture books all published this summer; Cub’s First Winter, Milo’s Pet Egg and Just Because. Her work is a celebration of nature and she has drawn her inspiration from the beautiful Suffolk countryside, where she lives with her other great inspirations – husband Matthew and children, Clementine and Toby.

… and introducing! Our Lovereading.co.uk Debuts of the Month

	Dark Life Kat Falls 11+Two kids thrown together, in a World that has long been engulfed by rising oceans, to save a young brother and the whole underwater-dwelling community from evil criminals. A thrilling adventure! Download Extract Buy £5.24 Saving £1.75 (25%)		A Most Improper Magick Stephanie Burgis 10+ A magical and dark tale of self discovery as one young witch sets out to save her family name. Her journey throws up much more than she bargained for in this page-turning adventure. Download Extract Buy £5.24 Saving £1.75 (25%)
	White Chin Marilyn Edwards 9+ This is the story of a wandering cat, told by the cat himself. It tells of cruel abandonment and scary adventures and a new life with a loving little girl called Kirstie. But that’s when things start to go wrong. Download Extract Buy £5.24 Saving £1.75 (25%)		Martha, No! Edward Hardy 3+ Martha causes chaos wherever she goes paying no attention at all to Nanny saying No! A witty contemporary cautionary tale with a satisfying resolution. Download Extract Buy £4.49 Saving £1.50 (25%)

Spy Thrillers, Aliens, Dark Worlds and History, his Novels Have it covered! Guest Editor – Graham Marks

Graham has written everything from comic strips and film tie-ins to many critically acclaimed novels for children and young adults. He is also involved in the Usborne Young Writers’ Award. His work comprises page-turning, fast-paced thrillers in magical worlds and futuristic settings, certain to fire the imagination of the young reader.

His most recent novel I Spy: The Constantinople Caper is a gripping adventure, combining the action-packed exploits of Alex Rider, with the historical adventures of Young Indiana Jones, in a classic story of one boy’s fight to find his father. An extract is available on the lovereading4kids.co.uk site and well worth a look! This Autumn he has two novels being released. The first is in September, Playing with Phyre and then the second in the I Spy series, Mean Streets.

Take a leisurely peek through his comprehensive and thrilling list of titles, as well as the wealth of authors and books that have inspired and influenced him throughout his life and career, which he kindly shares with us this month. Interestingly, one of his selections is a novel by John Buchan whose life and work, if you’re also a member of Lovereading, you’ll see we’re celebrating on the 70th anniversary of his death.

Back to School

While your children are enjoying their holidays, it’s a good idea to keep one eye on the future. Our Back to School category has been revamped with all the dictionaries, bilingual and reference titles you’ll need to give kids, of any age, a flying head start when the new academic year begins.

Great books made into brilliant films

This month sees the long-awaited film release of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, the first in the Jeff Kinney created series that has taken the US, and now the UK, by storm. The fantastic illustrations and hilarious story chart Greg’s life at a new school. Why not get your kids to read the book before seeing the film if only so they can knowledgeably tell their friends that “The book’s much better”! – You can even win a Wimpy Kid film goodie bag.

Conspiracy 365 – The Adventure continues…

For those of you not already familiar with the Conspiracy 365 series, it is a cracking new and explosive 12 book series to keep kids turning the pages throughout 2010. One book of this 12-part series is being published each month during the year, giving enough time to order a copy and race through it, heart-pounding, before waiting in suspense for the next episode. These fast-paced and heart-stopping short thrillers follow Cal, who is on the run after discovering that the people who killed his father are now after him as well. The monthly installments are an especially brilliant way to get your boys away from the games consol and buried in an un-put-downable read!

Great Books for Boys – we find them for you!

Talking of getting boys hooked on books, we have a great section on the site dedicated to helping you find titles to suit boys at every age-range. Simply go to the site and click on the appropriate age range for more information. An invaluable tool in the holiday season!

Kids Reluctant to Read? … Some Books to Get Them Started.

Similarly, there is a great section on the site offering suggestions for boys and girls who are reluctant to read. These titles – again listed by age group from 5+ to 14+ – are the ones we think are most likely to get young readers interested in, if not hooked on, reading and starting to enjoy and own their independent choices. Take a look and give it a try.

Get them Hooked! A Journey to Independent Reading for Early Readers…

In a stroke of brilliance, Usborne have released 15 new titles under the Very First Reading banner for children just starting on their reading journey. Each book in the series builds on the last, taking early readers on an adventure to independent reading. There are fantastically imaginative rhymes and pictures, and clever story formats so parents and kids can read together. Why not try them now so your child starts their first term at school in September ahead of the game?

Branford Boase Prize Winner – Lucy Christopher

Finally, we would like to send our congratulations to Lucy Christopher, winner of the much coveted and highly esteemed Branford Boase Children’s Debut Prize.

Her debut novel, Stolen (14+), is a love story like no other. Gemma is kidnapped from Bangkok airport and forced to live in the wild and desolate landscape of the Australian Outback. Her assailant, however, is motivated by obsessive love. Under the hot glare of the Australian sun, can he force Gemma to love him back, isolated as they are from the rest of the world? The book takes the format of a letter, written by Gemma to her captor reflecting on those strange and disturbing months in the wilderness. This is an extraordinary novel.

Well, that just about wraps up our August gift of information from the rich world of children’s literature. We hope we have inspired you to encourage your children to dive in and get reading and that you will continue to enjoy sharing that journey with them!

P.S – Don’t miss the chance of winning some brilliant book prizes by visiting out ‘Free Prize Draw’ section! Genre/pri where you can join in the Find Chaffy treasure hunt.

Read on to see our recommendations in your favourite age categories

Our Summer Reading selection is chock full of some real gems with something to suit every taste. Enjoy browsing and don’t forget you and your kids can even whet the appetite by reading an extract of every book we feature before deciding which ones to buy for the summer ahead of you.

This Month’s Highlights

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Newly hatched imprints for teens

There’s a plethora of publishers establishing new imprints this year that are aimed at teens and young adults. There are two this month, both absolute crackers. Independent publisher Canongate has teamed up with children’s specialist Walker Books to put a range of bestselling, award-winning books into the hands of the next generation of adult readers. The imprint, Walker Canongate, launches this month with four titles – Yann Martel’s Life of Pi, Niccolo Ammaniti’s I’m Not Scared, Kelly Link’s Pretty Monsters and Matt Haig’s The Radleys.

The second is from Puffin who has launched Razorbill (another small seabird for the non-twitchers among you), to cater for the astronomical rise of teenage fiction. Three newly hatched novels for you to enjoy in the launch list include The Summer I Turned Pretty and The Other Countess.

Happy 80th birthday Swallows and Amazons!

Who would have thought a book with a character called Titty would survive into the modern age? Well, it’s because it’s a cracking outdoor adventure! Celebrate the anniversary with us by visiting Lovereading4kids and downloading a free Opening Extract of this timeless classic.

Science has never been more FUN! Our Fascinating Facts category

These are titles that kids can really enjoy whilst learning useful facts to help them better understand our amazing world. We’ve just added some super fun titles from the Science Museum, including Stuff that Scares your Pants Off! And How Loud Can You Burp? Every one of them will get even the most reluctant reader into a budding young reader!

Exclusive Beach reading – our August Pre-Publication titles!

	Dead Man’s Cove: Laura Marlin Mysteries 1 Lauren St.John 9+ A brilliant mystery in which the ace detective Laura Marlin investigates a spooky home in the wilds of Cornwall… Download Extract Buy Save 25%		Dark Life Kat Falls 11+ Set in a world where the rising oceans have taken over continents, this is a debut novel that won’t disappoint. Download Extract Buy Save 25%
	Return to the Lost World Steve Barlow, Steve Skidmore Taking inspiration from the Conan Doyle classic this is an action-packed heart-pounding thriller and historical adventure for 9+ readers Download Extract Buy Save 25%		Martha, No! Edward Hardy 3+ Meet Martha Felicity Molly-Anne May, she’s guaranteed to bring chaos into your day! Download Extract Buy Save 25%
	Edge of Nowhere John E. Smelcer 11+ An astonishing tale of survival with more psychological depth than Robinson Crusoe, poignantly told and based on true events. Download Extract Buy Save 25%

Finally, if you have a youngster that’s heading for school this Autumn then do take a look at the terrific Usborne Very First Reading series – we feel they’re a terrific way of helping your child to read and gain in confidence prior to going to school. That said, do continue with the sharing of picture books with your youngsters as too often these are spurned by parents when children are too young.

Author of the Month – Eoin Colfer of Artemis Fowl fame

Eoin’s wildly original and adventure-packed books have been delighting young readers for over a decade.

His incredible Artemis Fowl stories chart the escapades of a teenage criminal mastermind, and the 7th, The Atlantis Complex, is out now! And as well as the Artemis Fowl series we have lots of his books to show off his comic storytelling genius.

STOP PRESS – Talk to Eoin Colfer ‘virtually live’ 20 July visit Lovereading4kids to find out more

Creator of a 280 year old cat! Our Illustrator of the Month Judith Kerr

Judith has produced some all-time classic picture books that generations of readers have kept as sentimental heirlooms well into adulthood.

But if you’ve misplaced your copies of ‘Mog, the Forgetful Cat’ (now 40, or 280 in cat years!) and the brilliant ‘The Tiger who came to Tea’, then invest in new ones for your family bookshelf now.

Books of the Month for July

There’s a wonderful bookshelf chock full of Book of the Month nuggets. The personal favourites in the office are, for babies and toddlers brand new Moomins titles, for 5+ Tumtum and Nutmeg’s Seaside Adventure , Rainbow Orchid II for 7+ year olds and for older readers books by Sophie Mckenzie and Ali Sparkes among others.

Award-winners – The Carnegie Greenaway Medals

The winners of two of the most prestigious awards in the children’s book world, the Carnegie Medal and Kate Greenaway Medal, have just been announced.

We’re thrilled to announce that the deserving winner of this year’s Carnegie Medal for the most outstanding novel is… drum roll please… the ever-astounding Neil Gaiman! His inventive, spook-filled Graveyard Book is a masterpiece of storytelling.

And the Greenaway Medal goes to the beautiful Harry and Hopper, written by Margaret Wild and illustrated by Freya Blackwood. This book is a wonderful visual exploration of one boy’s feelings when he loses his best friend, a dog called Hopper.

Novelist, wood-carver, drummer, and now our Guest Editor – Marcus Sedgwick

The amazingly energetic and multi-talented Marcus Sedgwick is an award-winning novelist, part-time woodcarver, and drummer in two bands.

His impeccable new Gothic thriller, White Crow, is perfect for fans of the Twilight series, and it’s on our site now as a Pre-publication sneak preview.

You can also take a peek at the books by other authors that have inspired him, firstly as a child and more recently during his writing journey.

Summer Reading – the no batteries holiday entertainment

Whether you’re off on holiday once the school term has ended or your family holiday is closer to home this year you’ll need some holiday diversions, or if you want to help your kids keep the magic of summer going long beyond July, take a look at our Summer Reading section. They’re a great way to foster a lasting love of reading away from the dreaded classroom…

Turn your teenagers into literature lovers

Canongate and Walker, two of the very best independent publishing houses in the UK, are getting together to bring modern literary classics (such as Booker prize winning The Life of Pi by Yann Martel) to a new younger audience – giving them new covers to reflect the YA audience and adding extra content such as Reading Group notes.

Making a big entrance – our Debuts of the Month

By Midnight A Ravenwood Mystery Mia James Something sinister is going down at the expensive and glamourous Ravenwood academy – but can new girl April discover what before it’s too late?… Download Extract Buy £6.74 Saving £2.25 (25%)

The Loon in the Moon Chae Strathie A terrifically fun and whimsical picture book that follows the Loon as he searches for children’s dreams to keep the moon glowing bright. Download Extract Buy £5.24 Saving £1.75 (25%)

Fallen Lauren Kate Angels are the new vampires according to Lauren, and here’s the proof – this totally absorbing and involving novel sees a girl sent to a grim reform school and finds herself in grave danger from a parallel world… Download Extract Buy £5.24 Saving £1.75 (25%)

Discover a new series and read the 1st book for free

Also in Summer Reading is a brilliant series, perfect for 9+ keen and reluctant readers alike The Wardstone Chronicles by Joeseph Delaney. The 7th one Spook’s Nightmare is just out and if you’re fearful of buying something that your child might not like then go to www.spooksbooks.com where they can read all of the first book in the series free!. Once hooked there, we’re pretty sure they’ll want to read two to seven and we have free Opening extracts of them all on Lovereading4kids ….Find out more.

Win your way to book heaven

Lovereading4kids has an ever-updating array of exclusive, free to enter competitions, giving you the chance to win some remarkable book goodies. This month alone there are prizes linked to Dinosaur Cove, the Picture Book Parade, and Mog the Cat’s 40th anniversary.

Help is at hand for budding authors – the 2011 Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbooks

If you’re a budding writer, this annual publication, that’s just out now, is an essential companion and overview of the publishing industry. With a wealth of practical information about literary agents and publishers and articles by leading authors, illustrators and media experts, this book will answer your every question, from copyright issues to the latest trends in publishing. Its companion volume is a Children’s Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook that’s perfect for budding children’s book writers to get their teeth into.

The series of the year – Conspiracy 365

Conspiracy 365: July has just been just been released. The books are short so it’s perfectly possible to catch up on the 6 titles so far published this year – they’re slim and cracking page-turning reads. Find out more today.

Finally July sees the film release of the next Twilight film – Eclipse – but if your children are a little young for the Stephenie Meyer books we recommend getting them to read The Vampire Handbook. It will keep 9+ children entertained and amused for longer than the film and much more suitable!

So there you go – a great round-up of what’s hot in the children’s book world, and hopefully some inspiration for you to kit your kids out with the best, most beautifully-illustrated, heart stoppingly adventuresome stories. Pick a few of these and you’ll keep your family amused for many summer days. Enjoy!

Read on to see our recommended reads in the age ranges you have said you are interested in.

1		WOW Said the Owl Tim Hopgood Shortlisted for the Best Pre-School Award, Early Year Awards 2009 Owl decides to wake up during the day and sleep at night.  A very odd thing for an owl to do.  But he discovers the world of colour and he’s in … Download free opening extract
2		Not Me! Nicola Killen This is an utterly delightful picture book from a bright new talent found by a publisher who seeks out new talent from the MA Illustration course in Cambridge. The clever interaction of the illustrations with some very simple text make … Download free opening extract
3		Ernest Catherine Rayner A brilliant joke lies at the heart of prize-winning illustrator Catherine Rayner’s Ernest. Ernest is a LARGE Moose. So large that, even though he tries squashing and squeezing, he just can’t fit all of himself into a book. Luckily he … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Usborne Very First Reading 1: Pirate Pat Mairi Mackinnon Pirate Pat allows the very beginner reader to take part in a lively and exciting story, using short sentences and simple words made up of only the letters s a t p i n m d.  Parent or carer reads … Download free opening extract
2		Usborne Very First Reading 2: The Dressing Up Box Mairi Mackinnon This the second in Usborne’s Very First Reading series introduces the letters g o c k ck e u r.  The sentences are a little longer than in book 1 and your child reads more words overall.  The repetition of … Download free opening extract
3		Usborne Very First Reading 4: Dog Diary Mairi Mackinnon Dog Diary introduces the letters j qu v w x y z zz.  Your child will now be familiar with all the letters of the alphabet in their most regularly-pronounced forms, making it possible to read over 300 everyday words.  … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Marvin Redpost 1: Kidnapped at Birth Louis Sachar The first of 8 great adventures about an ordinary boy with a big heart and a strong desire to work things out even when they’re complicated. Meet Marvin Redpost. He has red hair and blue eyes. And he is left … Download free opening extract
2		Horrid Henry and the Football Fiend: Early Reader Francesca Simon A brilliant story with football as the backdrop to the story about Horrid Henry, his little brother, Perfect Pete and of course not forgetting Moody Margaret. Henry is as determined as ever to get his own way and will stop … Download free opening extract
3		Titch and Mitch 1: Shipwrecked! Garth Edwards Titch and Mitch are two delightful pixies who survive being shipwrecked and end up on an island that’s full of extraordinary animal characters.  As they meet more and more friends they go off on some wonderful but sometimes frightening adventures … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Magical Mischief Anna Dale A bookshop stuffed full of unexpected and witty magic is a delight for Arthur when he first befriends Mr Hardbattle, the shop’s owner. But, as Mr Hardbattle soon explains, magic doesn’t help when you are trying to run a shop … Download free opening extract
2		Not Bad for a Bad Lad Michael Morpurgo This wonderful story was inspired by a conversation that Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman had about a prison at Hollesley Bay in Suffolk that Michael Foreman remembered from growing up nearby. Into this Michael Morpurgo weaves his story of … Download free opening extract
3		Super Soccer Boy and the Snot Monsters Judy Brown Super soccer boy Harry Gribble uses his fantastic football skills to solve a mystery.  It’s a fun, wacky story packed with lots of pictures throughout and a perfect combination of football and superheroes that will absorb even the most reluctant … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Takeshita Demons Cristy Burne Winner of the inaugural Frances Lincoln Diverse Voices Award 2009 A thrilling contemporary adventure wittily shot through with the powerful fantasy stories of the old demons from the Japanese past. Miku knows about the demons from growing up in Japan where … Download free opening extract
2		The Death-defying Pepper Roux Geraldine Mccaughrean Prize-winning Geraldine McCaughrean has turned her deft hand to a brilliantly witty and fast moving story about a boy who wants to defy his destiny. Pepper is an unusual name and Pepper Roux is an unusual child especially since, according … Download free opening extract
3		Goodnight Mister Tom Michelle Magorian Chosen as the Puffin Modern Classic 1980 – 1989 A wonderful debut novel from an author who is now widely acknowledged as one of the great children’s novelists of our time. A storyline that will pull on the heartstrings more than … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Young Sherlock Holmes: Death Cloud Andrew Lane MEGA BOOK OF THE MONTH – JUNE 2010.  Two dead bodies. One unforgettable hero.  The beginning of a legend.  Followers of the young James Bond and junior spy Alex Rider will enjoy the adventures of school boy Sherlock Holmes who … Download free opening extract
2		The Battle of the Sun Jeanette Winterson A rollercoaster of a seventeenth century adventure begins with Jack’s dramatic kidnapping on his twelfth birthday. Jack’s been selected as the Radiant Boy and the evil Magus needs to get his hands on him so that he can turn London into a city … Download free opening extract
3		Tall Story Candy Gourlay This is a debut novel packed with warmth, humour and quirkiness that will have you in fits of laughter one minute and in tears the next as the author explores a touching sibling relationship and the clash of two very … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The Sky is Everywhere Jandy Nelson This is a debut novel that once read will never be forgotten.  It’s a vibrant, deeply romantic novel that will bring tears to your eyes but it will also bring laughter through the tears!  It’s also funny, sexy and deeply meaningful.  … Download free opening extract
2		The Cardturner Louis Sachar The worldwide bestselling author of Holes takes readers on a journey right into the extraordinary and obsessive world of bridge.  Don’t be put off by this central theme before having a read of the extract on Lovereading4kids.  Alton Richards is … Download free opening extract
3		White Crow Marcus Sedgwick Described as a modern gothic thriller, complete with angels and devils, it’s a tale of two girls and their friendship in a long, hot, tense summer, but it is also interwoven with a 17th century tale of bizarre experiments into … Download free opening extract

With Sports Day, end of year plays and exams, June is a busy month for school children but with many weeks of holidays not far away to look forward to now is the perfect time to get into the reading habit. So to help, this email update is bursting with brilliant selections including an absolutely stunningly special 65th anniversary slipcase edition of the original Thomas the Tank Engine book.

Read on to find out more about our personal favourites or scroll down to see some summer reading selections that will get your kids as excited about reading as they are about ice creams, outdoor swimming, and running like crazy around the park.

Pre-publication exclusive – White Crow by Marcus Sedgwick

Described as a modern gothic thriller, complete with angels and devils, it’s a tale of two girls and their friendship in a long, hot, tense summer, but it is also interwoven with a 17th century tale of bizarre experiments into the afterlife. Perfect for fans of the The Twilight series but much more sinister and impeccably written!

This Month’s Highlights not to miss

Prize Winners for June

This month sees winners of two new children’s book prizes and the shortlist of another.

New this year was the Orange Youth Prize where a group of 6 teens were asked to pick their favourite Orange Prize winner of the last 15 years. The winner has just been announced and it went to the powerful story of a young holocaust survivor by Anne Michaels – Fugitive Pieces.

Also just announced is the shortlist for the most prestigious Debut novel in the children’s publishing world, The Branford Boase Award. It’s also gratifying here at Lovereading4kids that we have our finger on the pulse as we have already previously featured most of the books on the shortlist, when they were originally published. You’ll find them all grouped together in our Prize Winners section.

Finally, the Frances Lincoln Diverse Voices Award is a literary award that promotes writing from different cultural perspectives. The deserving inaugural winner is Takeshita Demons a rollicking adventure story about what happens when a crowd of spooky demons invade the lives of two ordinary school girls.

Get your kids thinking creatively and win!

The Usborne Young Writers’ Award encourages children to choose a story starter (written by established kid’s authors) and finish the story themselves.

The deadline for entries isn’t until 20 October, so there’s plenty of time to write something really cracking! www.usborne.com/youngwritersaward to find out more.

Conspiracy 365 – Cal’s adventure continues

This terrific series of 12 books, published one a month during 2010, continues with this the sixth title in a page-turning adventure which began when 15 year old Callum was hunted down by a crazed man carrying a deadly warning. Find out more about these books and catch up with the series to date.

Scroll down to see our Summer Reading selections for the age ranges you have said you are interested in or visit the website to see all our Summer Reading titles.

Click here to change your favourite age ranges.

P.S If you haven’t already checked out the competition pages then now’s your chance there are plenty of free to enter prize draws with exclusive book prizes. ]]> http://www.lovereading4kids.co.uk/blog/?feed=rss2&p=891 0 http://www.lovereading4kids.co.uk/blog/?p=886 http://www.lovereading4kids.co.uk/blog/?p=886#comments Mon, 14 Jun 2010 08:15:54 +0000 PeterC http://www.lovereading4kids.co.uk/blog/?p=886 Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		WOW Said the Owl Tim Hopgood Shortlisted for the Best Pre-School Award, Early Year Awards 2009 Owl decides to wake up during the day and sleep at night.  A very odd thing for an owl to do.  But he discovers the world of colour and he’s in … Download free opening extract
2		Not Me! Nicola Killen This is an utterly delightful picture book from a bright new talent found by a publisher who seeks out new talent from the MA Illustration course in Cambridge. The clever interaction of the illustrations with some very simple text make … Download free opening extract
3		Ernest Catherine Rayner A brilliant joke lies at the heart of prize-winning illustrator Catherine Rayner’s Ernest. Ernest is a LARGE Moose. So large that, even though he tries squashing and squeezing, he just can’t fit all of himself into a book. Luckily he … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Usborne Very First Reading 1: Pirate Pat Mairi Mackinnon Pirate Pat allows the very beginner reader to take part in a lively and exciting story, using short sentences and simple words made up of only the letters s a t p i n m d.  Parent or carer reads … Download free opening extract
2		The Night Iceberg Helen Stephens A touching story of a magical night time adventure as a little girl jumps aboard an iceberg. Grumpy at having to share everything with her new sister, Tofta wants the iceberg to be just for her. But the penguin who … Download free opening extract
3		Crocodiles are the Best Animals of All Sean Taylor Shortlisted for Roald Dahl’s Funny Prize 2009. This is a real romp of a read with bright humorous illustrations accompanying a rich, rhyming text that children will enjoy reading alone and with their parents, time and time again.  Crocodile demonstrates … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Titch and Mitch 1: Shipwrecked! Garth Edwards Titch and Mitch are two delightful pixies who survive being shipwrecked and end up on an island that’s full of extraordinary animal characters.  As they meet more and more friends they go off on some wonderful but sometimes frightening adventures … Download free opening extract
2		Marvin Redpost 1: Kidnapped at Birth Louis Sachar The first of 8 great adventures about an ordinary boy with a big heart and a strong desire to work things out even when they’re complicated. Meet Marvin Redpost. He has red hair and blue eyes. And he is left … Download free opening extract
3		Horrid Henry and the Football Fiend: Early Reader Francesca Simon A brilliant story with football as the backdrop to the story about Horrid Henry, his little brother, Perfect Pete and of course not forgetting Moody Margaret. Henry is as determined as ever to get his own way and will stop … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Magical Mischief Anna Dale A bookshop stuffed full of unexpected and witty magic is a delight for Arthur when he first befriends Mr Hardbattle, the shop’s owner. But, as Mr Hardbattle soon explains, magic doesn’t help when you are trying to run a shop … Download free opening extract
2		Not Bad for a Bad Lad Michael Morpurgo This wonderful story was inspired by a conversation that Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman had about a prison at Hollesley Bay in Suffolk that Michael Foreman remembered from growing up nearby. Into this Michael Morpurgo weaves his story of … Download free opening extract
3		Super Soccer Boy and the Snot Monsters Judy Brown Super soccer boy Harry Gribble uses his fantastic football skills to solve a mystery.  It’s a fun, wacky story packed with lots of pictures throughout and a perfect combination of football and superheroes that will absorb even the most reluctant … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Goodnight Mister Tom Michelle Magorian Chosen as the Puffin Modern Classic 1980 – 1989 A wonderful debut novel from an author who is now widely acknowledged as one of the great children’s novelists of our time. A storyline that will pull on the heartstrings more than … Download free opening extract
2		The Babysitters’ Club: The Summer Before Ann M. Martin The bestselling ‘Babysitters Club’ is given a prequel in this brand new title capturing the hopes and fears and above all the friendship of Kristy, Mary Anne, Claudia and Stacey. Each has their own family and personal issues; all are … Download free opening extract
3		The Death-defying Pepper Roux Geraldine Mccaughrean Prize-winning Geraldine McCaughrean has turned her deft hand to a brilliantly witty and fast moving story about a boy who wants to defy his destiny. Pepper is an unusual name and Pepper Roux is an unusual child especially since, according … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Young Sherlock Holmes: Death Cloud Andrew Lane MEGA BOOK OF THE MONTH – JUNE 2010.  Two dead bodies. One unforgettable hero.  The beginning of a legend.  Followers of the young James Bond and junior spy Alex Rider will enjoy the adventures of school boy Sherlock Holmes who … Download free opening extract
2		Tall Story Candy Gourlay This is a debut novel packed with warmth, humour and quirkiness that will have you in fits of laughter one minute and in tears the next as the author explores a touching sibling relationship and the clash of two very … Download free opening extract
3		The Moonstone Legacy Diana De Gunzburg, Tony Wild Beginning where Wilkie Collins’ classic left off, it’s hard to believe The Moonstone Legacy is a debut  for the quality of the writing is exceptional and has a real timeless quality about it.  The story itself is a terrific mix … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The Cardturner Louis Sachar The worldwide bestselling author of Holes takes readers on a journey right into the extraordinary and obsessive world of bridge.  Don’t be put off by this central theme before having a read of the extract on Lovereading4kids.  Alton Richards is … Download free opening extract
2		The Sky is Everywhere Jandy Nelson This is a debut novel that once read will never be forgotten.  It’s a vibrant, deeply romantic novel that will bring tears to your eyes but it will also bring laughter through the tears!  It’s also funny, sexy and deeply meaningful.  … Download free opening extract
3		What I Saw and How I Lied Judy Blundell Winner of the prestigious American National Book Award – Utterly gripping and beautifully told, this is a stunning rite of passage novel, set just after WW2, full of powerful and conflicting emotions, which captures the dramatic shift from child to … Download free opening extract

1		WOW Said the Owl Tim Hopgood Shortlisted for the Best Pre-School Award, Early Year Awards 2009 Owl decides to wake up during the day and sleep at night.  A very odd thing for an owl to do.  But he discovers the world of colour and he’s in … Download free opening extract
2		Not Me! Nicola Killen This is an utterly delightful picture book from a bright new talent found by a publisher who seeks out new talent from the MA Illustration course in Cambridge. The clever interaction of the illustrations with some very simple text make … Download free opening extract
3		Ernest Catherine Rayner A brilliant joke lies at the heart of prize-winning illustrator Catherine Rayner’s Ernest. Ernest is a LARGE Moose. So large that, even though he tries squashing and squeezing, he just can’t fit all of himself into a book. Luckily he … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Crocodiles are the Best Animals of All Sean Taylor Shortlisted for Roald Dahl’s Funny Prize 2009. This is a real romp of a read with bright humorous illustrations accompanying a rich, rhyming text that children will enjoy reading alone and with their parents, time and time again.  Crocodile demonstrates … Download free opening extract
2		Usborne Very First Reading 1: Pirate Pat Mairi Mackinnon Pirate Pat allows the very beginner reader to take part in a lively and exciting story, using short sentences and simple words made up of only the letters s a t p i n m d.  Parent or carer reads … Download free opening extract
3		The Night Iceberg Helen Stephens A touching story of a magical night time adventure as a little girl jumps aboard an iceberg. Grumpy at having to share everything with her new sister, Tofta wants the iceberg to be just for her. But the penguin who … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Titch and Mitch 1: Shipwrecked! Garth Edwards Titch and Mitch are two delightful pixies who survive being shipwrecked and end up on an island that’s full of extraordinary animal characters.  As they meet more and more friends they go off on some wonderful but sometimes frightening adventures … Download free opening extract
2		Ms Wiz RULES OK! Terence Blacker The classroom will never be the same again for those who love the stories about Ms Wiz, a teacher with a difference. Her unusual ways of running her class are hilarious, chaotic, unlikely and very, very funny. … Download free opening extract
3		Leon and the Place Between Angela Mcallister Shortlisted for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2010. When Leon goes to the magic show, he is the only one who believes. His brothers and sisters are in for a big surprise however: this is no ordinary show and Abdul Kazam … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Magical Mischief Anna Dale A bookshop stuffed full of unexpected and witty magic is a delight for Arthur when he first befriends Mr Hardbattle, the shop’s owner. But, as Mr Hardbattle soon explains, magic doesn’t help when you are trying to run a shop … Download free opening extract
2		Not Bad for a Bad Lad Michael Morpurgo This wonderful story was inspired by a conversation that Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman had about a prison at Hollesley Bay in Suffolk that Michael Foreman remembered from growing up nearby. Into this Michael Morpurgo weaves his story of … Download free opening extract
3		The Boy who climbed into the moon David Almond Author of the classic Skellig, and winner of the incredibly prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award, David Almond is a wholly original writer of magical and unusual stories that make anything and everything seem possible. Packed full of wonder and magic, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Tall Story Candy Gourlay This is a debut novel packed with warmth, humour and quirkiness that will have you in fits of laughter one minute and in tears the next as the author explores a touching sibling relationship and the clash of two very … Download free opening extract
2		The Kane Chronicles: The Red Pyramid Rick Riordan Best-selling author Rick Riordan who created Percy Jackson has once again created some non-stop thrilling action in this headlong adventure as the Egyptian past comes alive and threatens two present day children. Carter and Sadie, the children of world famous Egyptologist … Download free opening extract
3		The Hidden World: The Remarkable Adventures of Tom Scatterhorn Henry Chancellor An exciting new adventure (the second) with an amazing and exotic setting for Tom after he goes back in the Scatterhorn Museum hoping for a good summer holiday. What Tom hadn’t banked on was the arrival of Pearl Smoot who … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Unhooking the Moon Gregory Hughes One absolutely, indisputably MEGA story! This highly recommended title is a beautifully written, utterly original, funny and bittersweet tale about two newly orphaned kids who embark on an epic road trip to New York to find their long lost uncle. … Download free opening extract
2		Young Sherlock Holmes: Death Cloud Andrew Lane MEGA BOOK OF THE MONTH – JUNE 2010.  Two dead bodies. One unforgettable hero.  The beginning of a legend.  Followers of the young James Bond and junior spy Alex Rider will enjoy the adventures of school boy Sherlock Holmes who … Download free opening extract
3		The Battle of the Sun Jeanette Winterson A rollercoaster of a seventeenth century adventure begins with Jack’s dramatic kidnapping on his twelfth birthday. Jack’s been selected as the Radiant Boy and the evil Magus needs to get his hands on him so that he can turn London into a city … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The Cardturner Louis Sachar The worldwide bestselling author of Holes takes readers on a journey right into the extraordinary and obsessive world of bridge.  Don’t be put off by this central theme before having a read of the extract on Lovereading4kids.  Alton Richards is … Download free opening extract
2		The Sky is Everywhere Jandy Nelson This is a debut novel that once read will never be forgotten.  It’s a vibrant, deeply romantic novel that will bring tears to your eyes but it will also bring laughter through the tears!  It’s also funny, sexy and deeply meaningful.  … Download free opening extract
3		What I Saw and How I Lied Judy Blundell Winner of the prestigious American National Book Award – Utterly gripping and beautifully told, this is a stunning rite of passage novel, set just after WW2, full of powerful and conflicting emotions, which captures the dramatic shift from child to … Download free opening extrac

A bumper batch of Books of the Month

Young Sherlock Holmes is our MEGA Book of the Month, the first in a new series of stories by Andrew Lane, a self-confessed super fan of the original Conan Doyle books. The first introduces us to the brilliant but troubled teenager who will one day grow into the sleuth we know and love! This series has the potential to get well and truly under the skin of 11+ year olds rather in the way Charlie Higson’s Young Bond series has done. We think it will be huge.

There are also a blindingly brilliant range of other Books of the Month for June – pick a couple and you and your children are bound to be bowled over by the quality of writing.

Author of the Month – the amazing Louis Sachar

Louis Sachar is the award-winning mega-popular author who took the world by storm with Holes. He started writing in 1976 but didn’t become a full time author until 1989 (that’s perseverance for you). His latest compelling story is The Cardturner, a fantastically imaginative and romantic story about Alton and his blind, ageing uncle. Young readers are immediately attracted to Louis Sachar’s novels for his great and unusual stories and for his exceptional understanding of some of the challenges of growing up. Discover more of his superb books today…

Get to know the brilliant Tim Hopgood our Illustrator of the Month

Tim had been talking about creating kids’ picture books for years before he finally locked himself in a room and got round to making it happen. His stories are wonderfully imaginative, and his illustrations are a delightful mixture of different media and full of bold colours. Check out Tim’s latest, Wow! Said the Owl and Tip Tap went the Crab.

A Former Children’s Laureate is this month’s Guest Editor

This month’s Guest Editor is the former children’s Laureate and storytelling genius Michael Morpurgo. His books inspire a love of reading in children and they have been turned in to films and West End stage shows so it seems fitting that Michael has chosen a list of books that have inspired him.

Find out more about his own books – two new ones published this month – and the ones that have inspired him…

First-time fantastic – our Debuts of the Month

Tall Story Candy Gourlay A sweet and funny book about a girl who meets her brother for the first time, and he’s taller than she expected – eight feet tall! Download Extract Buy £8.24 Saving £2.75 (25%)	The Sky is Everywhere Jandy Nelson This is a very thoughtful story about a girl trying to deal with grief and romantic confusion after her sister dies suddenly. Our pick so far this year for Debut of the Year. Download Extract Buy £5.99 Saving £2.00 (25%)
Kisses for Lula Samantha Mackintosh Poor old Lula is almost sweet 16 and never been kissed – this is a great book about teenage crushes, creeps, and cringe-worthy catastrophes. Download Extract Buy £4.49 Saving £1.50 (25%)	The Moonstone Legacy Diana De Gunzburg, Tony Wild A mysterious and intriguing story about a young girl who sets out to discover the truth about her mother’s tragic death and the ‘sequel’ to Wilkie Collins’ Moonstone. Download Extract Buy £6.74 Saving £2.25 (25%)
The Last Summer of the Death Warriors Francisco X. Stork A buddy novel of the highest – two mismatched friends help each other to become all they can be. Utterly compelling. Download Extract Buy £8.24 Saving £2.75 (25%)

The Alex Rider stories – still thrilling after 10 years!

Anthony Horowitz’s reluctant teen superspy has been entertaining young readers for a decade, so to coincide with the paperback of Crocodile Tears perhaps now’s the time for a new generation of book lovers to discover him as well as his existing ones. All the books have cool new jackets to celebrate the birthday and are as fresh and exciting as they were when they were first published – so why not get your children hooked on reading, with Alex Rider now!

Series of the Month – magic and mayhem with Charlie Bone

Charlie Bone and the Red Knight, the eighth tantalising episode of the series, is out now. So get ready for the finale and greatest adventure yet featuring the Welsh children with magical powers.

Find out more about the Red Knight series in our special section today…

Very first reads for the readers of the future

Usborne have released 15 new titles for children just starting their reading journeys. Each book in the series builds on the last taking early readers on an adventure to independent reading. With fantastic imaginative rhymes and pictures, and clever story formats so parents and kids can read together, these books may just get some children to really love reading. Try them now so your child is hooked on reading as they start their life at school in September.

A book for deserving dads – our Father’s Day selection

If dad has been good this year – taking the kids to the park, doing his share of cleaning, and putting up shelves when he’s been asked to – then why not reward him on Father’s Day with a book!

Our top tip is Daddy Lost his Head, a fabulously surreal tale with illustrations by Quentin Blake.

Out and About – have some summer adventures via Lovereading4kids

We are pleased to present a new crop of books dedicated to outdoor adventures and city walks. Among them are Make it Wild, a book that shows how to use natural, renewable materials to make all kinds of cool stuff, and Adventure Walks for Families – both of them perfect as inspiration for leisure activities for all the family over half term and through the summer holidays.

Puffin – story experts for the last 70 years…

As part of Puffin’s 70th birthday celebrations we’re featuring some of their Puffin Modern Classics, one representing each of the seven decades.

These are timeless stories that have inspired generations of young readers, and will delight your children too! Why not cast your vote for your favourite Puffin Book – find out more in our Puffin Modern Classics section on Lovereading4kids.

New for 3+ readers, the delightful Picture Kelpies

Scottish publisher Floris Books are passionate about creating beautiful books for 3+ readers. We have a selection of 3 this month. Find out more…

That should be plenty for you to be getting on with. With teenage crushes, supersleuths, knights and angels, there’s scope for boundless summer adventures. Just visit Lovereading4kids and download some free Opening Extracts to see which your kids will love.

P.S Finally, there’s just time to tell you that the Hay Literary Festival is on at the moment. There’s a cracking line-up of authors as well as our very own Lovereading4kids editorial expert, Julia Eccleshare on 5 June. Click here to find out more about the event.

P.P.S – don’t forget to check out the competition page – there’s lots to win and a reminder too that with the Football World Cup in South Africa just about to start why not inspire the children over half term with some great football themed stories – there’s something for every age.