Lovereading 4 Kids Updates from the world of children’s books

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Little Bear’s Little Boat Eve Bunting Tender and true, this is a beautiful story about Little Bear’s loss as he grows too big for the little boat he loves. Since he can no longer fish from the boat or dream in it, he searches for another … Download free opening extract
2		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
3		Alison Jay’s Question Blocks Alison Jay A perfect gift for a newborn baby. Four stunning board books nestle in this beautiful box. Each poses a question. Who is That?, What is Yellow?, Where is Teddy?, What is This?  The answers to all the questions are to … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		The Ice Bear Jackie Morris Stunning illustrations capture the warm emotions of this magical story and juxtaposes them perfectly with  the winter landscape of the white bears and the hunters who live in it.  When Raven steals a white bear cub and delivers him to … Download free opening extract
2		Iris and Isaac Catherine Rayner Prize-winning illustrator Catherine Rayner has produced a new outstanding title. Polar bears Iris and Isaac fall out over sharing their nest. Each stomps away in a Big Bear Huff but soon both find that they don’t enjoy anything half as … Download free opening extract
3		Zog Julia Donaldson The creators of the best-selling Gruffalo have invented a delightful new character – Zog the little dragon who always wants to do best at school. Zog’s determination to win gold stars leads him into loads of mishaps but luckily he … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		The Three Little Witches Storybook (Early Reader) Georgie Adams Perfect for reading aloud and sharing with children, these Early Reader chapter books are punctuated by catchy rhymes and speech bubbles, and with their bright, funny pictures and lively design they are hugely appealing.  They’re perfect for children from 5-7.  … Download free opening extract
2		Mr Chicken Goes to Paris Leigh Hobbs Mr Chicken has left his safe world sets off on a global adventure. He’s on a whistle-stop tour of Paris and, like a good tourist, he’s doing all the famous sites, accompanied by his French friend, Yvette. But it’s not … Download free opening extract
3		The Hodgeheg Dick King-smith This is an absolutely charming modern classic from one of Britain’s all-time favourite authors.  There is no-one more impressive when it comes to animal stories than Dick King-Smith and this one is our favourite. The Hodegheg has everything – humour, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Boom! Mark Haddon Everything about this deliciously improbable adventure is almost completely daft – and that’s the fun of it all. When Charlie sets up his walkie-talkie in the staff room he doesn’t hear gossip about the pupils as he had expected. Instead, … Download free opening extract
2		Letters from an Alien Schoolboy Ros Asquith This is the first in a terrific new series for 7+ year olds – both boys and girls.  Packed with some hilarious illustrations and the story itself is a real page-turner.  It features an alien who comes to spy on … Download free opening extract
3		Slog’s Dad David Almond Award-winning author/ illustrator team David Almond and Dave McKean have followed up The Savage with an equally stunning new book told partly as a graphic novel and partly as a story. Full of the kind of mystery David Almond created … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		No Such Thing As Dragons Philip Reeve This is the author’s first stand alone novel since the spectacular Here Lies Arthur, winner of the 2008 Carnegie Medal. Reeve’s brilliant imagination has conjured up a dragon story in the grand tradition of children’s fantasy fiction, but one that is spectacularly different … Download free opening extract
2		To the Extreme David Gatward A fun adventure about facing your fears with high quality graphic novel-style illustrations depicting the action throughout and gripping narrative with stacks of fun facts.  Particularly suitable for reluctant readers who prefer non-fiction/fact books. FYI, the series, also entices them … Download free opening extract
3		Skulduggery Pleasant: Mortal Coil Derek Landy Best-selling Skulduggery Pleasant has taken the world by storm. A hugely entertaining mix of fear and fun in a magical community where the strangest things seem to happen for unpredictable reasons, this fifth volume tells a new chapter in the … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Reckless Cornelia Funke 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 original and outlandish characters. Searching for his missing father, Jacob Reckless steps through the mirror into a … Download free opening extract
2		Scat Carl Hiaasen Totally topical, Scat is a brilliant fast-moving eco-aware thriller set in the swamps of Florida. Nick and Marta get sucked into the world of corrupt oil prospectors and fanatical eco-activists when Mrs Starch, a formidably horrible teacher at Truman School, … Download free opening extract
3		Unhooking the Moon Gregory Hughes Shortlisted for the prestigious Teenage Book Prize 2010, the winner of which will be announced on 1st November 2010.  The shortlist of six includes: Halo by Zizou Corder, Nobody’s Girl by Sarra Manning, The Enemy by Charlie Higson, Revolver by … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		A Trick of the Dark B R Collins Prize winning B.R Collins’ A Trick of the Dark is a gripping supernatural thriller which explores the darker sides of adolescence. Annis sees her older brother Zach crushed and broken when the walls of a ruined house fall on to … Download free opening extract
2		Almost True Keren David A thrilling adventure in which the stakes are dangerously high, Almost True is an emotional roller coaster. When someone is shot dead on the doorstep instead of him, fourteen year old Ty, already under police protection since witnessing a murder, … Download free opening extract
3		The Legacy Gemma Malley What started with The Declaration and continued with The Resistance is brilliantly brought to conclusion in The Legacy.  A thrilling finale in which Anna and Peter and their friends risk all to expose the truth behind the quest for Longevity.  … Download free opening extract

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		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

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

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		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

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		I Like Bugs Lorena Siminovich A delightful touchy-feely counting book that depicts numbers and bugs through collage.  Whilst looking at some wonderfully vibrant insects as your toddler progresses through the book he/she can also begin to learn to count the number of insects on each … Download free opening extract
2		I Like Fruit Lorena Siminovich This is one of the most beautiful and touchy feely books I’ve seen for babies and toddlers for a while.  Each spread depicts a colour and a fruit; for example, a strawberry and alongside it, the words and pictures of … Download free opening extract
3		I Love You, Little Bear Claire Freedman, Gavin Scott Little Bear loves to go exploring with his mummy and as they do so they discover new places and meet new friends. This is a wonderful story about love and the importance of friendships. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Sylvia and Bird Catherine Rayner Shortlisted for the Pre-school Award, Early Year Awards 2009 Sylvia is the only dragon in the whole world, and she is very lonely… until one day, she meets Bird. Tiny and chirpy, so different from the huge dragon, Bird somehow changes Sylvia’s life … Download free opening extract
2		Blue Chameleon Emily Gravett Prize winning illustrator Emily Gravett triumphs again in her witty story of how a lonely chameleon does what he does best in a desperate attempt to make a new friend. Changing colour comes naturally to the blue chameleon so he … Download free opening extract
3		For Just One Day Laura Leuck, Marc Boutavant Everyone’s dreams are brought to life in this wonderful world of make believe as a child thinks of all the things she’d like to be  – just for one day. A buzzing bee, a creeping crocodile, a bunny rabbit, a … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Spells Emily Gravett Shortlisted for the 2010 Blue Peter ‘Most Fun with Pictures’ Award. The winner will be announced to coincide with World Book Day in March. A stunning new picture book from Emily Gravett, full of witchcraft, wizardry and magic. We meet a … Download free opening extract
2		Bob and Barry’s Lunar Adventures 2: A Right Royal Disaster Simon Bartram Bob, the much loved Man on the Moon, is back in a new adventure for beginner readers. As ever, he doesn’t believe in aliens! But when it looks as if he might lose his head after he tinkers with a … Download free opening extract
3		The General Michael Foreman As relevant as when it was first published, Michael Foreman’s very first book is beautifully reissued in this 50th anniversary edition. General Jodpur loves to train his soldiers making them the best fighting force in the world. But, one day, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		The Great Hamster Massacre Katie Davies Shortlisted for the Waterstone’s Book Award 2010 An entertaining behind-the-scenes look at family life in all its intricacies as it revolves around pet ownership and the drama that surrounds it. Nine year old Anna tells how she and her younger brother … Download free opening extract
2		Peter the Penguin Pioneer Daren King Shortlisted for the 2010 Blue Peter ‘Most Fun with Pictures’ Award. The winner will be announced to coincide with World Book Day in early March. Hugely inventive and charmingly funny with laugh out loud zany humour and wonderful illustrations throughout that … Download free opening extract
3		The Bad Beginning (A Series of Unfortunate Events 1) Lemony Snicket This bestselling series (in fact in the top five of bestsellers of the last decade), now at long last available in paperback, launches with the suitably named title that charts the unlucky reason why the whole woeful story of the … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The Boy Who Fell Down Exit 43 Harriet Goodwin Shortlisted for the 2010 Blue Peter ‘Book I Couldn’t Put Down’ Award. The winner will be announced to coincide with World Book Day in March. Adventurous, charming and poignant by turns, The Boy Who Fell Down Exit 43 is a quirky … Download free opening extract
2		Frozen In Time Ali Sparkes Shortlisted for the 2010 Blue Peter ‘Book I Couldn’t Put Down’ Award. The winner will be announced to coincide with World Book Day in March. A page-turning mystery-adventure with a pleasingly old-fashioned feel as two children, frozen by cryonic suspension by … Download free opening extract
3		Flyaway Lucy Christopher Shortlisted for the Waterstone’s Book Award 2010 Tender and touching, this is a delicate story about facing up to difficulties and finding a way through. When Isla’s father develops a serious heart condition he can no longer take her to see … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Time Riders Alex Scarrow This is a thrilling action adventure which hurtles across time and place at breakneck speed. Three children are on the bring of death: Liam is about to drown as the Titanic sinks in 1912, Maddy is on an aeroplane fitted … Download free opening extract
2		The Returners Gemma Malley The Returners is a gripping and thought-provoking thriller from the author of the equally provocative futuristic novels, The Declaration and The Resistance. What happens when your past catches up with you and you don’t like what you see?  This powerful … Download free opening extract
3		My So-Called Afterlife Tamsyn Murray A wonderful debut novel which, as well as being laugh-out-loud funny, is full of insights, compassion, and love.  Fifteen-year-old Lucy has been stuck in the men’s loo ever since she was murdered there six months ago. No one has been … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Beautiful Creatures Kami Garcia, Margaret Stohl A teen romance with a twist of danger and the supernatural told with a sure touch that makes it a headlong read from start to finish. Typical teenager Ethan is bored by his life growing up in a small town … Download free opening extract
2		Magic Under Glass Jaclyn Dolamore A hair-raising story full of suspense and intrigue. Nimira is picked out of her poor life as a music hall performer by the wealthy and mysterious Hollin Parry who asks her to sing for his automaton piano player. Parry is … Download free opening extract
3		Savannah Grey: A Horror Story Cliff Mcnish If you’re looking for a real page-turner that will have you gasping for breath then this is it. It’s a horror story and a love story intertwined and 15 year old Savannah Grey is possibly the only person who can … Download free opening extract

As August draws to a close and we all hope for good weather for the Bank Holiday don’t forget books when it comes to keeping your children occupied and happy in the holidays. Much more absorbing and rewarding than any game console and we have dozens and dozens of brilliant ones to recommend.

Strike gold before the crowds – Pre-publication exclusives

Threads by Sophia Bennett

A vibrant and thought-provoking story for fashion-conscious girls of 11+. Shortlisted for the Times/Chicken House Fiction Award, this is not just a great book, it’s pure gold.

Ernest by Catherine Rayner

A stunning picture book with minimal text about a rather large moose written and illustrated by the winner of the 2009 Kate Greenaway Medal..

Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela

A wonderfully illustrated children’s version of the inspirational book by hero of our time, Nelson Mandela, perfect for 5+.

Tollins: Explosive Tales by Conn Iggulden

A magical book of short stories for 7+ readers about some creatures called ‘Tollins’ (just don’t ever call them fairies!)…

Boom by Mark Haddon

7+ readers A nuclear-powered hundred-ton adventure about two boys who determine to find out what secret plan their teachers are up to. From the author of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nightime

Get closer to Authors with our new feature

New this month has been our Guest Editor genre. It’s proved very popular so,  if you’ve not yet checked it out then you’re in for a treat. Quite apart from Ali Sparkes’ wonderful adventures for 9+ year olds she has also selected her favourite books that have inspired her writing.

Please tell your school about Lovereading4schools

With the new academic year comes the inevitable new ‘booklist’ from your children’s school. It will probably be on a piece of paper in your child’s school bag and chances are it will get lost and even if it doesn’t the thought of trawling through a bookshop to find them is rather daunting. It’s a different story however, if your school has already signed up to the Lovereading4schools. This free to use site lets the school create reading lists which you can access and order from in the ‘click of a mouse’ – and 5% of what you spend goes back to the school for them to build their library – can’t say fairer than that. Find out more today and if you like it please make sure to tell your school….

Tintin and The Rainbow Orchid – Brilliant graphic adventures

If you loved Tintin as a child pass the love onto your own children with the beautiful 3 in 1 editions that have been recently re-released to coincide with the 100th year of Herge’s birth. And, if Tintin proves a hit you and your kids are sure to get hooked on The Rainbow Orchid too; an ambitious graphic-novel combining classic storytelling with cinematic artwork à la Tintin. If you’re quick you might even land a prestigious first edition, which in years to come just might be worth a bob or two. What we can absolutely guarantee is a brilliant rollercoaster ride.

This Month’s Highlights – Not to be missed

Free to enter competitions to win lots of Book Goodies

We always have lots of exclusive competitions on Lovereading for kids. Most of them are free to enter – so what are you waiting for! This month you could win, a family ticket to the British Museum, a family ticket to the spooky Wookey Hole cave and lots of signed books. Find out more today.

Happy reading and if you are still stuck for a great read then do try our Books of the Month. Our favourites this month are: for 3+ readers the stunningly illustrated Call me Gorgeous by Giles Milton. For 7+ readers the simply hilarious Dissapearing Moon by Simon Bartram and finally for 14+ readers the thrilling Grass by Catherine McPhail.

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Little Bear’s Little Boat Eve Bunting Tender and true, this is a beautiful story about Little Bear’s loss as he grows too big for the little boat he loves. Since he can no longer fish from the boat or dream in it, he searches for another … Download free opening extract
2		Charlie and Lola’s Opposites Lauren Child Favourite TV characters Charlie and Lola explore the differences between big and small, few and many, off and on and other opposites.  A bold photographic illustration on each page of this sturdy board book makes it easy to grasp the … Download free opening extract
3		Walk With Me! Stella Blackstone Open the flaps to find out how different animals get about. Who can hop? A rabbit can hop. Who can glide? A snake can glide. Each spread shows a different country and the animals in it providing a perfect background … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		At the Seaside Germano Zullo An absolutely gorgeous large format board book.  Each spread is crammed full of fun and humorous illustrations.  You and your toddler can share in the excitement of finding one of the many characters in the book and follow that character … Download free opening extract
2		Harris Finds his Feet Catherine Rayner Winner of the Kate Greenaway Award 2009. Touching and inspiring, this is a beautiful story of a youngster finding his feet and being encouraged to forge his own way in the world by his remarkable Grandfather. Harris is a very … Download free opening extract
3		The Way Back Home Oliver Jeffers Shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Award 2009. This is an absolutely delightful book that is sure to capture the imagination of toddlers.  Jeffers’ illustrations are an absolute delight and together with the text tell an extraordinary and original story about … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		The Troll Julia Donaldson An original and witty version of a traditional tale which shows what happens when two stories get blended into one. The Troll lives under the bridge – which is where he is meant to live. And the pirates are out … Download free opening extract
2		Urgency Emergency! Injured Spider Dosh Archer A fun first read that no 5+ year old, who is just beginning to want more words on the page than a picture book offers, should miss.  It’s been a while since something as good as has been published for … Download free opening extract
3		Dear Miss Amy Husband A perfect companion to the holiday season.  Written in the form of letters from a little boy called Michael who writes some terrifically witty notes to his new teacher to explain why he can be late getting back to school.  … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Master Crook’s Crime Academy: Robbery For Rascals Terry Deary Welcome to the school where scoundrels save the day.  This is Robin Hood meets Oliver Twist in a laugh-out-loud new series from one of the most-loved children’s authors, Terry Deary.  With a cast of hilarious characters, witty asides and farcical … Download free opening extract
2		Demon Defenders: Classroom Demons Jake Lancing Terrific comedy adventures with a footballing twist that are sure to be loved by boys in particular as well as reluctant readers. These books show that mischievousness doesn’t necessarily mean naughty!  The kids are part of an anything-but-ordinary football team.  For starters each kid … Download free opening extract
3		The Story of Matthew Buzzington Andy Stanton The bestselling creator of Mr Gum turns his hand to a wildly fanciful story about a boy with a very unusual power; he can turn himself into a fly. Matthew Buzzington’s adventures including getting locked into school and dealing with … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The Boy in the Dress David Walliams Touching, funny and full of insight, this tender story tells how Dennis decides that everyone does not have to be the same. Bravely, he decides to do something completely different. Taking a risk he reinvents himself and begins to see … Download free opening extract
2		Angel Cake Cathy Cassidy Friends and relationships are the hallmarks of Cathy’s novels as she portrays her characters and their friendships particularly well.  The plot lines are easy to get into, there’s always a subliminal message too and in Angel Cake it’s don’t judge … Download free opening extract
3		Wilma Tenderfoot and the Case of the Frozen Hearts Emma Kennedy The author of Wilma Tenderfoot is a comedy actress who has appeared in The Kumars.  Her humour shines through brilliantly in her writing in this debut and readers will find her heroine Wilma Tenderfoot (a wannabe detective) enormously funny, feisty, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Girls to Total Goddesses in Seven Days Sue Limb Brilliant fun, this is a roller coaster of a read as it swings effortlessly from the wild extremes of  total despair to absolute ecstasy capturing the trials and tribulations of Zoe and Chloe, best friends forever. Zoe and Chloe have … Download free opening extract
2		Hide and Seek Catherine Macphail Chilling from start to finish this is a brilliant, fast moving and spooky story. When new girl Destiny arrives at school she asks if it is really haunted… Everyone knows it isn’t but tricking Destiny seems like a bit of … Download free opening extract
3		Bloodline Katy Moran Shortlisted for the 2009 Branford Boase Best Debut Novel Award Go back in time to Dark Age Britain for this powerful story about loyalty and survival in another time. Abandoned by his father, Essa makes a new life for himself among … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The Forest of Hands and Teeth Carrie Ryan This is a remarkable and moving debut novel that was causing waves well before it was published.  The author has crafted a powerful and at times frightening tale that explores humanity’s unfailing desire not just to survive, but to live, … Download free opening extract
2		The Traitor Game B R Collins Winner of for the 2009 Branford Boase Best Debut Novel Award An extraordinary fantasy novel from a supremely talented debut novelist. Set partly in a boys’ school and also in another world that is both fierce and dangerous, it has themes … Download free opening extract
3		What I Saw and How I Lied Judy Blundell Winner of the prestigious National Book Award. Utterly gripping and beautifully told, this is a stunning rite of passage novel full of powerful and conflicting emotions, which captures Evie’s dramatic shift from child to adult in pinpoint sharp, painful detail. Excited … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		What Shall we do with the Boo-hoo Baby? Cressida Cowell An entertaining story which will strike a chord with all parents! How can the animals stop the Boo Hoo baby from crying? Feeding him helps, as does bathing him and playing with him but, in the end, bedtime is the … Download free opening extract
2		Walk With Me! Stella Blackstone Open the flaps to find out how different animals get about. Who can hop? A rabbit can hop. Who can glide? A snake can glide. Each spread shows a different country and the animals in it providing a perfect background … Download free opening extract
3		Little Bear’s Little Boat Eve Bunting Tender and true, this is a beautiful story about Little Bear’s loss as he grows too big for the little boat he loves. Since he can no longer fish from the boat or dream in it, he searches for another … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Harris Finds his Feet Catherine Rayner Winner of the Kate Greenaway Award 2009. Touching and inspiring, this is a beautiful story of a youngster finding his feet and being encouraged to forge his own way in the world by his remarkable Grandfather. Harris is a very … Download free opening extract
2		Barry the Fish with Fingers Sue Hendra Quirky and original, this will be a real joy for both toddler and parent.  Full of kindness, Barry, a fish with the special attributes of fingers, uses his unusual feature to delight his friends. Fingers are good for all sorts … Download free opening extract
3		At the Seaside Germano Zullo An absolutely gorgeous large format board book.  Each spread is crammed full of fun and humorous illustrations.  You and your toddler can share in the excitement of finding one of the many characters in the book and follow that character … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		The Troll Julia Donaldson An original and witty version of a traditional tale which shows what happens when two stories get blended into one. The Troll lives under the bridge – which is where he is meant to live. And the pirates are out … Download free opening extract
2		Urgency Emergency! Injured Spider Dosh Archer A fun first read that no 5+ year old, who is just beginning to want more words on the page than a picture book offers, should miss.  It’s been a while since something as good as has been published for … Download free opening extract
3		Urgency Emergency! Choking Wolf Dosh Archer The familiar characters from little Red Riding Hood are given an exciting new adventure in this entertaining and easy to read hospital drama. Everyone is afraid when the Big Bad Wolf  is brought into the hospital. Nurse Percy cowers under … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Master Crook’s Crime Academy: Robbery For Rascals Terry Deary Welcome to the school where scoundrels save the day.  This is Robin Hood meets Oliver Twist in a laugh-out-loud new series from one of the most-loved children’s authors, Terry Deary.  With a cast of hilarious characters, witty asides and farcical … Download free opening extract
2		Cookie Jacqueline Wilson Bestselling author Jacqueline Wilson knows exactly the ways in which Beauty Cookson feels insecure. It’s hard enough fitting in at school where she’s horribly teased by the cool crowd, but she has even more difficulties at home where she seems … Download free opening extract
3		Demon Defenders: Classroom Demons Jake Lancing Terrific comedy adventures with a footballing twist that are sure to be loved by boys in particular as well as reluctant readers. These books show that mischievousness doesn’t necessarily mean naughty!  The kids are part of an anything-but-ordinary football team.  For starters each kid … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Angel Cake Cathy Cassidy Friends and relationships are the hallmarks of Cathy’s novels as she portrays her characters and their friendships particularly well.  The plot lines are easy to get into, there’s always a subliminal message too and in Angel Cake it’s don’t judge … Download free opening extract
2		The Boy in the Dress David Walliams Touching, funny and full of insight, this tender story tells how Dennis decides that everyone does not have to be the same. Bravely, he decides to do something completely different. Taking a risk he reinvents himself and begins to see … Download free opening extract
3		Ghost Hunter: Book 6 Chronicles of Ancient Darkness Michelle Paver A stunning 6th and final episode, brings the bestselling ‘The Chronicles of Ancient Darkness’, which began so dramatically with Wolf Brother to a close. Now it is Torak’s last adventure; he must travel up into the mountains and find the … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Girls to Total Goddesses in Seven Days Sue Limb Brilliant fun, this is a roller coaster of a read as it swings effortlessly from the wild extremes of  total despair to absolute ecstasy capturing the trials and tribulations of Zoe and Chloe, best friends forever. Zoe and Chloe have … Download free opening extract
2		Bog Child Siobhan Dowd Winner of Carnegie Award 2009 and the Bisto Irish Children’s Book Award 2009 and shortlisted for the . New and challenging book full of mystery and shadows from recently deceased author Siobhan Dowd. Both terrifying and fascinating from the start, … Download free opening extract
3		The Demon’s Lexicon Sarah Rees Brennan From its dramatic start when two boys are set on by a savage flock of ravens – with demons inhabiting the bird’s bodies – this is a thrilling and chilling adventure. Nick and Alan’s everyday life looks quite normal but … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The Forest of Hands and Teeth Carrie Ryan This is a remarkable and moving debut novel that was causing waves well before it was published.  The author has crafted a powerful and at times frightening tale that explores humanity’s unfailing desire not just to survive, but to live, … Download free opening extract
2		What I Saw and How I Lied Judy Blundell Winner of the prestigious National Book Award. Utterly gripping and beautifully told, this is a stunning rite of passage novel full of powerful and conflicting emotions, which captures Evie’s dramatic shift from child to adult in pinpoint sharp, painful detail. Excited … Download free opening extract
3		Megan Book One: The Biggest Decision of All Mary Hooper Tender and thoughtful, Megan charts the welter of complex emotions Megan goes through from the moment she discovers she’s pregnant. At only fifteen she has to deal with the impossibly difficult choices that it throws up, as well as coping … Download free opening extract

The Summer holidays are nearly upon us, and this month’s selection of books will get your kids as excited about reading as they are about all those wonderful things associated with this time of year – ice creams, beaches, swimming, and picnicking in the park. With our special Summer Reading section and some of the most prestigious children’s book awards just announced, finding amazing stories for children with Lovereading4kids is easy.

For services to the planet’s young readers – medal-winning books

Two of the most important prizes in the children’s book world were announced at the end of June, and you can see for yourselves why they won by downloading free Opening Extracts of both books here. You may have seen them on Lovereading4kids before, because we’ve been raving about them for yonks!

The Carnegie Medal was won posthumously for Siobhan Dowd’s Bog Child, a fascinating novel about a boy who is simultaneously haunted by the body of a dead child he finds, and the troubles going on in his Northern Ireland home. It is sad but life affirming.

And the Greenaway Medal for Illustration went to the adorable Harris Finds His Feet by Catherine Rayner. Told in exquisite pictures, this is the story of a young hare with huge feet and a wonderful grandfather to help him realise how useful they are.

The judges said it was a particularly difficult decision to make on both awards for the quality of the shortlist was so strong. We have the full shortlist in our Prize Winners section so if you’ve not yet checked out the shortlist then why not go there now.  You can also find the shortlist for the Branford Boase Award for best debut there too, the winner of which will be announced later this month.

A bulging basket of Books of the Month

For fear of running out of breath and collapsing in an excited heap on the floor when telling you about our Books of the Month I’ll be brief but rest assured these are some of the very best children’s books out there at the moment. For toddlers there’s a funny fish called Barry who has fingers, for slightly older children a new Julia Donaldson featuring a troll, for 7+ there’s the delightfully named, The Boy in the Dress and for 9+ there’s Frank Cottrell-Boyce’s unputdownable Cosmic. A new series launch for 11+ readers from the hugely popular Sophie Mckenzie, The Medusa Project has been eagerly awaited and doesn’t disappoint and last but by no means least a superbly evocative historical romance/mystery for 14+ readers What I saw and how I Lied, a coming of age novel set just after WW2 in America. So download some Opening Extracts and see which piques your child’s enthusiasm. To view all our Books of the Month together, just click here.

For 3 + readers	For 5 + readers	For 7 + readers
For 9 + readers		For 11 + readers
For 11 + readers	For 14 + readers

First time lucky (and enormously talented) – Debuts of the Month

The Undrowned Child Michelle Lovric 9+ Part fairy tale, part historical fiction, this wonderful adventure set in a troubled 20th century Venice is a stunning debut. ………More info		The Forest of Hands and Teeth Carrie Ryan 11+ A fresh and riveting take on the zombie genre from a very talented new author, Carrie Ryan. …….More info
Escape from Shadow Island Paul Adam 9 +High octane adventure about an ordinary schoolboy who by night wows crowds as an escapologist. But can he discover the truth behind his father’s disappearance. ……..More info		Wilma Tenderfoot and the Case of the Frozen Hearts Emma Kennedy The humour shines through in this debut brilliantly. The heroin is enormously funny, feisty, cheeky and charming. ……..More info

Jiggy McCue – the off-the-wall hero is our Series of the Month

The Jiggy McCue series by Michael Lawrence has had boys and girls laughing their socks off with his peculiar misadventures for nearly a decade. Jiggy is a very odd 11-year-old who seems to encounter supernatural goings on wherever he goes! And now there’s a new collection of stories, One for All and All for Lunch – each told by a different character from the Jiggy stories. It’s a real treat for existing fans or indeed for any 8+ reader who is new to Jiggy it’s the perfect introduction. But you have been warned, it is laugh-out-loud funny.

Beat the crowds – Exclusive Pre-Publication Books

The Rainbow Orchid: The Adventures of Julius Chancer (Vol One)

An ambitious graphic-novel combining classic storytelling with cinematic artwork à la Tintin. A brilliant roller coaster adventure for boys and girls of all ages. You’ll be in awe of the creator when you see it. Check out a sneak preview now.

The 6th and final book of the Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series – for edge of the seat action, adventure and mystery there is no equal and the final denouement will satisfy all.

Darke Academy 1: Secret Lives

In the first book of a brand new series, a scholarship student Cassie Bell begins her time at an elite paranormal academy – but what sinister secrets are some of the other students sitting on? Knowing too much could prove deadly… Fans of the Twilight series shouldn’t miss it.

Get some rhymes in their minds

Poetry is definitely in. It can be fun, silly, clever, or goose-bump raising; it helps learning and memory and builds confidence when read aloud. It could even inspire your own children to start writing themselves.

With this in mind, we’ve picked two classic anthologies by John Foster for your children to get hooked on: School’s Out and Excuses, Excuses – both bestselling hilarious anthologies and very timely for the time of year.

So pick a few of this colourful array, sit down with your children and find out whether there’s a free Opening Extract that really gets them excited to find out what happens next.

Book Goodies galore to win this month

Finally, don’t forget about our Prize Draw page – there are as ever lots of prizes to be won including Benefit cosmetics for What I saw and How I Lied, lots of Clarice Bean goodies and signed copies of titles too numerous to mention.

Happy summer reading from the Lovereading4kids team of Julia, Louise, Steve and Peter.

Featured Books Age 0 – 5 Years

1		The Way Back Home Oliver Jeffers Shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Award 2009. This is an absolutely delightful book that is sure to capture the imagination of toddlers.  Jeffers’ illustrations are an absolute delight and together with the text tell an extraordinary and original story about friendship and home. … Download free opening extract
2		Little Boat Thomas Docherty Shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Award 2009. Wonderfully detailed yet simple illustrations coupled with minimal text make this an absolutely fantastic picture book to enjoy with even the youngest toddler.  Later this year, this title will be joined by an … Download free opening extract
3		Harris Finds his Feet Catherine Rayner Shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Award 2009. Touching and inspiring, this is a beautiful story of a youngster finding his feet and being encouraged to forge his own way in the world by his remarkable Grandfather. Harris is a very … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		The Wind in the Willows – Illustrated Edition Kenneth Grahame Stunning is definitely the best word to describe this book that is bulging with superb illustrations that complement the moving story by Kenneth Grahame of Ratty, Moley and of course the irascible Toad. It is part of the Walker Illustrated Classics, … Download free opening extract
2		Varmints Helen Ward Shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Award 2009. The most overlooked threat in the world today is the loss of peace and tranquility. Can someone find the time and space to stop, think and plant the seeds of change before it’s … Download free opening extract
3		Tumtum and Nutmeg: Pirates’ Treasure Emily Bearn The enchanting and delightful mice Tumtum and Nutmeg are back for a third adventure. This time the two home lovers are off on a camping trip but soon things begin to go very wrong as they get swept down the … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		The Amazing Adventures of Curd The Lion and Us! in the Land at the Back of Beyond Alan Gilliland Reminiscent of the writing of Lewis Carroll and Edward Lear, this brilliant debut children’s novel is completely unputdownable as well as being almost uncategorisable.  The author has succeeded in delivering on a book that incorporates a terrifically funny yet mysterious story, full … Download free opening extract
2		Secret Garden – Illustrated Edition Frances Hodgson Burnett This absolute classic has entranced children the world over since its first publication in 1911.  In this remarkable new hardback gift edition from Walker Books, Inga Moore’s beautifully observed illustrations capture the wonder of the garden coming alive again, bringing … Download free opening extract
3		Flood And Fang: Raven Mysteries Book One Marcus Sedgwick Told from the bird’s eye view of a resident raven, this is a deliciously topsy-turvy comedy full of unusual details. The Otherhand family are far from normal and life in Otherhand Castle is distinctly strange. Edgar the raven cares little … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The Stepsisters’ Story Kaye Umansky A romping comedy of catastrophes, this version of the Cinderella story comes straight from the mouths of the step sisters. They make no apology for their terrible behaviour as they greedily pursue their own ends while doing down their step … Download free opening extract
2		Fever Crumb Philip Reeve This is one of the most eagerly anticipated novels of 2009 and here at Lovereading we’re lucky enough to have a chapter taster for you pre-publication.  So why not check it out now. Philip Reeve’s Mortal Engines quartet of a post-apocalyptic … Download free opening extract
3		Living with Vampires Jeremy Strong Family problems of an unusual kind make life complicated for Kevin. With vampires for parents, he does his best to control them but things can’t help getting out of hand….Blood is their favourite drink so it isn’t surprising that they … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		The Ask and the Answer Patrick Ness Tense, shocking and deeply moving, The Ask and the Answer is a terrifying novel of resistance under the most extreme pressure. The sequel to the highly acclaimed and prize-winning The Knife of Never Letting Go, the author who is also … Download free opening extract
2		Skellig – TV tie in edition David Almond This is a wonderfully eerie and magical story about believing in something extra special and why it may make a difference.  It’s full of happiness and sadness but ultimately it’s incredibly fulfilling. ‘Touched with a visionary intensity, this strange life-affirming tale exercises every … Download free opening extract
3		The Knife of Never Letting Go Patrick Ness Shortlisted for the Carnegie Award 2009. Winner of the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize 2008 and Booktrust Teenage Prize 2008. The electrifying and unflinching young adult debut novel about the impossible choices of growing up by award-winning fiction writer Patrick Ness. A word … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Gone Michael Grant Gripping from the first moment on, this is a scary, an unputdownable and a brilliantly plotted fantasy. One minute all the adults are there – next they’re gone! Only the children remain and they are trapped, cut off from the … Download free opening extract
2		Beautiful Dead: Jonas Eden Maguire This is the first of a proposed series of 4 books in the increasingly popular area of paranormal romance.  Fans of Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series will love the intrigue, the excellent writing style, compelling characters coupled with a powerful mystery.  … Download free opening extract
3		Creature of the Night Kate Thompson Shortlisted for the Carnegie Award 2009 and shortlisted for the Bisto Irish Children’s Book Award. From multi-award winning author Kate Thompson comes another absorbing read, blazing an enthralling path between the stark realities of modern-day society and the fantasy for … Download free opening extract