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

Lovereading4kids.co.uk most popular books by age range

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		The Chicken Thief Beatrice Rodriguez An entertainingly illustrated wordless picture book story which will be loved by all ages. When the daring fox comes by and steals the chicken away from under the noses of her friends Bear and Rabbit, he sets off a dramatic … Download free opening extract
2		Lulu’s Christmas Camilla Reid All the excitement of Christmas is crammed into this interactive picture book showing all the things Lulu has to do to get ready for the big day. And young readers will love pulling the tab to help her decorate the … Download free opening extract
3		My Animals Xavier Deneux Stylish imagery in black and white (with a cleverly done tiny hint of colour on each page) introduces some familiar animals in a highly original way. Perfectly placed holes for little fingers will encourage readers to engage closely with each picture as … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		The Penguin Who Wanted to Find Out Jill Tomlinson This is a perfect story for animal lovers young and old, filled with tenderness and love combined with a subtle humour.  Soft focus illustrations take readers right into the cold world of the penguins living in Antarctica. The beautiful pictures … Download free opening extract
2		Who’s Driving? Leo Timmers This is a delightful new take on the classic fable of the hare and the tortoise.  Full of shining cars and screeching tyres, it’s a picture book for drivers of all ages, young and old.  So many different cars and so … Download free opening extract
3		Mr Pusskins Best in Show Sam Lloyd Winner of the 6 and under category in the Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2009. Pusskins is a larger-than-life character and it comes as no surprise that it has been shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funniest book prize!! There is fun and … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		The Best of Times Michael Morpurgo Beautifully told and exquisitely illustrated, this is a gem of a book. Michael Morpurgo weaves a magical story about the unusual way a prince finds to make his princess happy and so to save her life. Emma Chichester Clark’s illustrations capture the subtle … Download free opening extract
2		Tumtum and Nutmeg: A Christmas Adventure Emily Bearn It’s Christmastime and the loveable characters Tumtum and Nutmeg are back for a new set of adventures. When they hear bad news about Christmas they set off for the Toy Kingdom to make sure that everyone gets the happy Christmas … Download free opening extract
3		My Brilliant Book! Michael Broad Short of a good book to read, Sam decides that writing his own is the only way to really enjoy a story. Vibrantly illustrated, Sam’s flights of fancy – aliens, a world full of sweets, a trip to the wildwest … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Really Really Big Questions about life, the Universe and everything Stephen Law, Nishant Choksi 100 Really Really Big Questions is an unusual and fun introduction to philosophy that explores life’s important but often unanswered questions. Readers will be able to explore the history of thought and the great thinkers and learn how to think … Download free opening extract
2		Grubtown Tales: Stinking Rich and Just Plain Stinky Philip Ardagh Winner of the 7 – 14 yr old category of the Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2009. You cannot fail to find the town of Grubtown and its inhabitants hysterically funny.  What goes on defies belief but if you’ve read books by … Download free opening extract
3		Mrs Cockle’s Cat Philippa Pearce This magical story weaves a delightful fantasy around a simple and touching story of a lost cat. Mrs Cockle lives at the top of a very tall house which has a useful trap door that opens directly onto the roof. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		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
2		The Unfinished Angel Sharon Creech Prize-winning author Sharon Creech tells a magical story that’s truly original, touching and funny of an unusual friendship between an unusual angel and Zola who find themselves sharing a tower high in the Swiss Alps. The story is told by Angel … Download free opening extract
3		Under the Weather: Stories About Climate Change Tony Bradman Perfectly pitched for younger readers, this is a timely collection of stories about an urgent matter that will affect everyone’s future. The stories have a global perspective with different authors tackling the different consequences of the world warming up. Crucially, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		The Vanishing of Katharina Linden Helen Grant Shortlisted for the prestigious Teenage Book of the Year Award 2009.  The winner will be announced on 18th November 2009. This debut novel is a great page-turner with an endearing story that’s full of rich detail and beautifully written.  It … Download free opening extract
2		Crocodile Tears: An Alex Rider novel Anthony Horowitz As exciting as ever with even more action and suspense, boy hero Alex Rider is back for his eighth spectacular adventure.  When Alex finds himself in great danger he turns to MI6 for protection. They are willing to help – … Download free opening extract
3		Tales of Terror from the Tunnel’s Mouth Chris Priestley A spine chilling collection of short stories each of  which will horrify but also delight readers with its creepy characters and unexpected occurrences. Robert starts back to school on the train alone but, when the train stops right in the … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The Secret to Teen Power Paul Harrington ‘The Secret’ is an international phenomenon that has inspired millions of people to live extraordinary lives. The Secret to Teen Power makes that material accessible and relevant for today’s over programmed, stressed-out teens in this fast-movingand changing 21st century world. … Download free opening extract
2		Wildthorn Jane Eagland Set in Victorian England, this is a thought-provoking and shocking debut story for teenagers and adults of how a young woman with an ambition to become a doctor (at a time when it was frowned upon for women to have … Download free opening extract
3		Auslander Paul Dowswell Shortlisted for the prestigious Teenage Book of the Year Award 2009.  The winner will be announced on 18th November 2009. A tense and dramatic story of growing up in Berlin during World War Two. When Piotr’s parents are killed … Download free opening extract

Featured Books Age 0 – 5 Years

1		The Great Paper Caper Oliver Jeffers Touching and funny, this is also a visually sophisticated picture book which lightly carries an important message about the use – and misuse – of resources. All is not well in the forest: branches of the trees keep disappearing and … Download free opening extract
2		Stick Man Julia Donaldson Creators of The Gruffalo, best selling author/ illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are back with another bestseller on their hands. “Stick Man lives in the family tree/ with Stick Lady love/ And his children three”. But one day Stick … Download free opening extract
3		Aliens Love Underpants! (Book and CD edition) Claire Freedman     Joint winner of the Richard and Judy “Early” 5+ Category. Terrific illustrations capture the flood of jokes about pants that underlie this rhyming story now brilliantly brought to even greater life by the addition of a CD to accompany the … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Oliver Moon And The Spider Spell Sue Mongredien More magical mayhem from the junior wizard who is always getting himself into big trouble. Here it is no exception for when he tries a Grow-bigger spell on the cauldron he finds himself in very BIG trouble indeed. Great … Download free opening extract
2		Traction Man Is Here Mini Grey Hurrah for Traction Man, the toy hero who, with his faithful side kick Scrubbing Brush, is up for adventures anytime and anyplace. They’ll tackle any challenge and bravely fight their way through to success. But, when Traction Man is given … Download free opening extract
3		The Ship’s Kitten Matilda Webb A wonderfully heart-warming and funny story about a little kitten who is desperate to be a ship’s cat. Try as she might she’s ejected from boat after boat by other cats until that is, she finds herself on the biggest … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Kaspar Michael Morpurgo A wonderfully emotional but heart-warming tale from the pen of one of the foremost writers for children.  Brilliantly interwoven in historical fact at the time of the sinking of the Titanic is the story of Kaspar the Savoy cat, who … Download free opening extract
2		Cosmo and the Secret Spell Gwyneth Rees Brilliant spooky fun with plenty of giggles for both parent and child to enjoy as well as a fair dose of frightening goings on.  What more do you need at halloween? … Download free opening extract
3		Storlax: The Power of the Deep Robert Jackson, Bubbi Morthens This is an epic children’s story, told with great humour, optimism and warmth.  It will grip the reader not just because of the loveable fishy characters and exciting adventures but almost more so because it subtly shows us the impact … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The 39 Clues 1: The Maze Of Bones Rick Riordan Want to get your kids reading, well here’s a spellbinding adventure that we think kids of 8 upwards will really pick up on for it’s something more than a book as it integrates books, games, a website, cards and prizes … Download free opening extract
2		Allie Finkle’s Rules For Girls: The New Girl Meg Cabot Allie is a brilliant heroine who 7+ year old girls will love and really look up to. She’s full of adventure, quite precocious and at times her army of family and friends despair of her. At times it’s … Download free opening extract
3		Reavers’ Ransom Emily Diamand Winner of The Times Children’s Fiction Competition, this original post-apocalyptic fantasy is an action packed debut novel. Determined to find the Prime Minister’s daughter who has been captured by bloodthirsty reavers, Lilly sails off carrying with her a talking jewel. Lilly … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Blade: Closing In Tim Bowler The second in the Blade series, this is another short, very accessible novel for teens. Pacy, gripping and packed with action, and a central character that’s incredibly engaging, even the most reluctant reader will devour it. Blade is on … Download free opening extract
2		Uncle Montague’s Tales Of Terror Chris Priestley Chris Priestley in his first book with Bloomsbury has written a book that is impossible to put down. Be warned however! The content is scary, no doubt about it. The book contains a series of short fast-paced horror stories, climaxing … Download free opening extract
3		The Knife of Never Letting Go Patrick Ness Winner of the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize 2008. The electrifying and unflinching young adult debut novel about the impossible choices of growing up by award-winning fiction writer Patrick Ness. This title is part of Walker Books’ ‘New Voices’ campaign which throughout … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Before I Die Jenny Downham Winner of the Branford Boase Award 2008. This is a haunting yet truly amazing read but don’t read it too young. Definitely not for someone less than 14 years old. If you knew you were going to die what would … Download free opening extract
2		Stop In The Name Of Pants Louise Rennison You can’t stop laughing at and with Georgia Nicolson. Now she’s back with a new diary in which, as ever, she charts the ups and downs of her intense – sometimes imaginary – sex-kitten life as it ricochets from the … Download free opening extract
3		The Meaning Of Life Joanna Nadin Laugh out loud funny from the first page, The Meaning of Life, will be devoured by teenagers and adults in equal measure just as the Diaries of Adrian Mole hit the spot for a different generation. A spot-on teenage voice … Download free opening extract

 Age 0 – 5 Years

1		Stick Man Julia Donaldson Creators of The Gruffalo, best selling author/ illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are back with another bestseller on their hands. “Stick Man lives in the family tree/ with Stick Lady love/ And his children three”. But one day Stick … Download free opening extract
2		Gruffalo Pop-up Theatre Book Julia Donaldson Not only can you read and reread the much loved story of the Gruffalo in this complete work of art but you can open the pop-up stage to act out the adventures of the little brown mouse, or even create … Download free opening extract
3		The Pencil Allan Ahlberg This book is an hilarious and unmissable treat! One day there is just a lonely pencil…It begins to draw – a boy, a dog, a cat and then a house and streets for them to play in. But everyone wants … Download free opening extract

5+ readers

1		Nut Cracker Jan Pienkowski The enchantment of the Nutcracker story is beautifully captured in Jan Pienkowski’s glorious silhouettes. His white characters act out the story against beautifully coloured multi-layer backgrounds which are edged with silver trellis work that adds a touch of magic. Handsomely … Download free opening extract
2		Traction Man Is Here Mini Grey Hurrah for Traction Man, the toy hero who, with his faithful side kick Scrubbing Brush, is up for adventures anytime and anyplace. They’ll tackle any challenge and bravely fight their way through to success. But, when Traction Man is given … Download free opening extract
3		Oliver Moon And The Spider Spell Sue Mongredien More magical mayhem from the junior wizard who is always getting himself into big trouble. Here it is no exception for when he tries a Grow-bigger spell on the cauldron he finds himself in very BIG trouble indeed. Great … Download free opening extract

7+ readers

1		Storlax: The Power of the Deep Robert Jackson, Bubbi Morthens This is an epic children’s story, told with great humour, optimism and warmth.  It will grip the reader not just because of the loveable fishy characters and exciting adventures but almost more so because it subtly shows us the impact … Download free opening extract
2		Cosmo and the Secret Spell Gwyneth Rees Brilliant spooky fun with plenty of giggles for both parent and child to enjoy as well as a fair dose of frightening goings on.  What more do you need at halloween? … Download free opening extract
3		Kaspar Michael Morpurgo A wonderfully emotional but heart-warming tale from the pen of one of the foremost writers for children.  Brilliantly interwoven in historical fact at the time of the sinking of the Titanic is the story of Kaspar the Savoy cat, who … Download free opening extract

9+ readers

1		The 39 Clues 1: The Maze Of Bones Rick Riordan Want to get your kids reading, well here’s a spellbinding adventure that we think kids of 8 upwards will really pick up on for it’s something more than a book as it integrates books, games, a website, cards and prizes … Download free opening extract
2		Sebastian Darke: Prince of Fools Philip Caveney This is a hilarious and swashbuckling adventure featuring the half human, half elf Sebastian Darke, a wannabe court jester, who discovers he’s not great at telling jokes!! Fans of Shrek and Terry Pratchett will love it for its wonderful humour … Download free opening extract
3		Inkdeath: Inkheart 3 Cornelia Funke Cornelia Funke’s acclaimed Inkheart trilogy, whilst rooted in the real world, sweeps beyond words to the Inkworld, a richly imagined parallel place that is the stuff of classic fairy tales that rivals Tolkien in its mastery. Inkdeath is a magnificently … Download free opening extract

11+ readers

1		Blade: Closing In Tim Bowler The second in the Blade series, this is another short, very accessible novel for teens. Pacy, gripping and packed with action, and a central character that’s incredibly engaging, even the most reluctant reader will devour it. Blade is on … Download free opening extract
2		A Perfect Ten Chris Higgins Chris Higgins’ writing rivals the likes of Cathy Cassidy and Jacqueline Wilson.  She’s an author truly in tune with the teen psyche.  This is her fourth novel and she gets better and better with each new storyline.  The characterisation is … Download free opening extract
3		Uncle Montague’s Tales Of Terror Chris Priestley Chris Priestley in his first book with Bloomsbury has written a book that is impossible to put down. Be warned however! The content is scary, no doubt about it. The book contains a series of short fast-paced horror stories, climaxing … Download free opening extract

14+ readers

1		Before I Die Jenny Downham Winner of the Branford Boase Award 2008. This is a haunting yet truly amazing read but don’t read it too young. Definitely not for someone less than 14 years old. If you knew you were going to die what would … Download free opening extract
2		Sweet Julie Burchill Definitely for the older teenager, Burchill has written about a gritty, urban and larger than life world.  It’s smart, funny, full of wit – the Julie Burchill trademark – and it really captures the life and soul of teenage angst … Download free opening extract
3		Sam Stern’s Student Cookbook Sam Stern, Susan Stern Mouth watering recipes which are both easy to make and money saving make Sam Stern’s cookbook perfect for students. Written in snappy sentences, which give the impression that no one will have long to spend over the stove, the cooking instructions are clear as … Download free opening extract

Featured Books Age 0 – 5 Years

1		Michael Rosen’s Book of Nonsense Michael Rosen In the best tradition of nonsense verse, here are poems, rhymes, wordplay and limericks to make everyone smile and laugh out loud.  Children will delight in unravelling the meanings of the words and in creating their own nonsense verse. … Download free opening extract
2		Stick Man Julia Donaldson Creators of The Gruffalo, best selling author/ illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are back with another bestseller on their hands. “Stick Man lives in the family tree/ with Stick Lady love/ And his children three”. But one day Stick … Download free opening extract
3		The Story Blanket Ferida Wolff, Harriet May Savitz A beautifully heart-warming story about generosity rewarded with stunning illustrations by the award-winning illustrator Elena Odriozola. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Her Mother’s Face Roddy Doyle The first picture book from award winner Roddy Doyle is a heart-warming and gently reassuring tale about moving on and growing up.  The writing is quite sublime and the luscious illustrations by Freya Blackwood compliment the words beautifully. … Download free opening extract
2		Lost Happy Endings Carol Ann Duffy Shortlisted for the prestigious 2008 Greenway. A wonderfully lyrical story about the search for the happy endings that are needed to make the perfect story. Beautiful illustrations bring the story to life. … Download free opening extract
3		The Dragon Tamer’s Castle Ben Cort This amazing book contains everything you need to create your own dragon tamer’s castle, plus there’s an exciting storybook to read again and again.  So read the book, build the castle and let the adventure begin. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Cosmo and the Secret Spell Gwyneth Rees Brilliant spooky fun with plenty of giggles for both parent and child to enjoy as well as a fair dose of frightening goings on.  What more do you need at halloween? … Download free opening extract
2		Kaspar Michael Morpurgo A wonderfully emotional but heart-warming tale from the pen of one of the foremost writers for children.  Brilliantly interwoven in historical fact at the time of the sinking of the Titanic is the story of Kaspar the Savoy cat, who … Download free opening extract
3		Storlax: The Power of the Deep Robert Jackson, Bubbi Morthens This is an epic children’s story, told with great humour, optimism and warmth.  It will grip the reader not just because of the loveable fishy characters and exciting adventures but almost more so because it subtly shows us the impact … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The 39 Clues 1: The Maze Of Bones Rick Riordan Want to get your kids reading, well here’s a spellbinding adventure that we think kids of 8 upwards will really pick up on for it’s something more than a book as it integrates books, games, a website, cards and prizes … Download free opening extract
2		Magic Thief Sarah Prineas This is an absolutely captivating debut fantasy adventure. Full of magic and trickery, this is the story of a wizard and his new apprentice trying to discover why the magic in their city is fading and how they must … Download free opening extract
3		Tamburlaine’s Elephants Geraldine Mccaughrean Geraldine McCaughrean is a genius in her ability to draw the reader in to a part of history that might not immediately spring to mind as being of interest and yet she makes you hungry for more.  Here, she draws upon a violent … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Uncle Montague’s Tales Of Terror Chris Priestley Chris Priestley in his first book with Bloomsbury has written a book that is impossible to put down. Be warned however! The content is scary, no doubt about it. The book contains a series of short fast-paced horror stories, climaxing … Download free opening extract
2		A Perfect Ten Chris Higgins Chris Higgins’ writing rivals the likes of Cathy Cassidy and Jacqueline Wilson.  She’s an author truly in tune with the teen psyche.  This is her fourth novel and she gets better and better with each new storyline.  The characterisation is … Download free opening extract
3		The Knife of Never Letting Go Patrick Ness Winner of the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize 2008. The electrifying and unflinching young adult debut novel about the impossible choices of growing up by award-winning fiction writer Patrick Ness. This title is part of Walker Books’ ‘New Voices’ campaign which throughout … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Eclipse Stephenie Meyer The much-anticipated 3rd novel in the captivating saga of vampire romance that began with Twilight, continued with New Moon. Friendships are stretched beyond breaking point and love choices must be made that are a matter of life and death and … Download free opening extract
2		Before I Die Jenny Downham Winner of the Branford Boase Award 2008. This is a haunting yet truly amazing read but don’t read it too young. Definitely not for someone less than 14 years old. If you knew you were going to die what would … Download free opening extract
3		Exposure Mal Peet A dramatic, topical novel inspired by Shakespeare’s Othello which will appeal to both boys and girls with its themes of football and celebrity culture.  Award winning Mal Peet’s Exposure is the third in the gripping trilogy which began with Keeper, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books Age 0 – 5 Years

1		Stick Man Julia Donaldson Creators of The Gruffalo, best selling author/ illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are back with another bestseller on their hands. “Stick Man lives in the family tree/ with Stick Lady love/ And his children three”. But one day Stick … Download free opening extract
2		Michael Rosen’s Book of Nonsense Michael Rosen In the best tradition of nonsense verse, here are poems, rhymes, wordplay and limericks to make everyone smile and laugh out loud.  Children will delight in unravelling the meanings of the words and in creating their own nonsense verse. … Download free opening extract
3		The Story Blanket Ferida Wolff, Harriet May Savitz A beautifully heart-warming story about generosity rewarded with stunning illustrations by the award-winning illustrator Elena Odriozola. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Lost Happy Endings Carol Ann Duffy Shortlisted for the prestigious 2008 Greenway. A wonderfully lyrical story about the search for the happy endings that are needed to make the perfect story. Beautiful illustrations bring the story to life. … Download free opening extract
2		Her Mother’s Face Roddy Doyle The first picture book from award winner Roddy Doyle is a heart-warming and gently reassuring tale about moving on and growing up.  The writing is quite sublime and the luscious illustrations by Freya Blackwood compliment the words beautifully. … Download free opening extract
3		The Dragon Tamer’s Castle Ben Cort This amazing book contains everything you need to create your own dragon tamer’s castle, plus there’s an exciting storybook to read again and again.  So read the book, build the castle and let the adventure begin. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Storlax: The Power of the Deep Robert Jackson, Bubbi Morthens This is an epic children’s story, told with great humour, optimism and warmth.  It will grip the reader not just because of the loveable fishy characters and exciting adventures but almost more so because it subtly shows us the impact … Download free opening extract
2		Kaspar Michael Morpurgo A wonderfully emotional but heart-warming tale from the pen of one of the foremost writers for children.  Brilliantly interwoven in historical fact at the time of the sinking of the Titanic is the story of Kaspar the Savoy cat, who … Download free opening extract
3		Cosmo and the Secret Spell Gwyneth Rees Brilliant spooky fun with plenty of giggles for both parent and child to enjoy as well as a fair dose of frightening goings on.  What more do you need at halloween? … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The 39 Clues 1: The Maze Of Bones Rick Riordan Want to get your kids reading, well here’s a spellbinding adventure that we think kids of 8 upwards will really pick up on for it’s something more than a book as it integrates books, games, a website, cards and prizes … Download free opening extract
2		Magic Thief Sarah Prineas This is an absolutely captivating debut fantasy adventure. Full of magic and trickery, this is the story of a wizard and his new apprentice trying to discover why the magic in their city is fading and how they must … Download free opening extract
3		Tamburlaine’s Elephants Geraldine Mccaughrean Geraldine McCaughrean is a genius in her ability to draw the reader in to a part of history that might not immediately spring to mind as being of interest and yet she makes you hungry for more.  Here, she draws upon a violent … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		A Perfect Ten Chris Higgins Chris Higgins’ writing rivals the likes of Cathy Cassidy and Jacqueline Wilson.  She’s an author truly in tune with the teen psyche.  This is her fourth novel and she gets better and better with each new storyline.  The characterisation is … Download free opening extract
2		Uncle Montague’s Tales Of Terror Chris Priestley Chris Priestley in his first book with Bloomsbury has written a book that is impossible to put down. Be warned however! The content is scary, no doubt about it. The book contains a series of short fast-paced horror stories, climaxing … Download free opening extract
3		Blade: Closing In Tim Bowler The second in the Blade series, this is another short, very accessible novel for teens. Pacy, gripping and packed with action, and a central character that’s incredibly engaging, even the most reluctant reader will devour it. Blade is on … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Eclipse Stephenie Meyer The much-anticipated 3rd novel in the captivating saga of vampire romance that began with Twilight, continued with New Moon. Friendships are stretched beyond breaking point and love choices must be made that are a matter of life and death and … Download free opening extract
2		Before I Die Jenny Downham Winner of the Branford Boase Award 2008. This is a haunting yet truly amazing read but don’t read it too young. Definitely not for someone less than 14 years old. If you knew you were going to die what would … Download free opening extract
3		The Reckoning James Jauncey A thought adventure begins with a heart-stopping moment. Fin hears car doors clam, a scream and a dull thud. Through the mist he glimpses a figure falling from the bridge; when he reaches it he finds it is a girl … Download free opening extract

Featured Books Age 0 – 5 Years

1		The Story Blanket Ferida Wolff, Harriet May Savitz A beautifully heart-warming story about generosity rewarded with stunning illustrations by the award-winning illustrator Elena Odriozola. … Download free opening extract
2		Pink! Lynne Rickards This is a delightful tale of learning that it’s ok and quite fun to be different.  When Patrick turns pink overnight he worries about what his friends might think and travels the world to find out.  A really heart-warming story … Download free opening extract
3		Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark – Book & CD Jill Tomlinson Plop is a baby owl. Perfect in every way – except for one. He’s afraid of the dark! But he soon discovers, through a variety of new friends, that dark can be fun and exciting and magical! This is a story for … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Bob’s Best Ever Friend Simon Bartram Simon Bartram’s Man in the Moon as one of the most memorable, witty, and intriguing picture books of recent times and now at last, Bob, the man in the moon is back but looking for a best ever best friend … Download free opening extract
2		The Iron Man Ted Hughes One of the greatest modern fairy stories, this tells of the strange giant Iron Man who appears from no where and begins a reign of terror throughout the countryside as he smashes up the farmers’ tractors and diggers. How the … Download free opening extract
3		Derek The Sheep Gary Northfield One of the Beano’s most popular cartoon strip characters, Derek the Sheep, makes his long-awaited entry into a bumper collection. Existing fans of Derek as well as children who enjoy a more graphic approach to reading will love this … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Roald Dahl A book that requires no introduction as it is probably Dahl’s best-known and most read creation and deservedly so. The secretive and magical world of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory is revealed to five ‘lucky’ children, each of who has won … Download free opening extract
2		The Bfg Roald Dahl This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also … Download free opening extract
3		Waggit’s Tale Peter Howe This is an absolutely delightful and heart-warming animal tale about a puppy that gets dumped in the park by its owner. As he learns to fend for himself with the help of other strays, his life becomes both exciting and … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Inkheart 3: Inkdeath Cornelia Funke Cornelia Funke’s acclaimed Inkheart trilogy, whilst rooted in the real world, sweeps beyond words to the Inkworld, a richly imagined parallel place that is the stuff of classic fairy tales that rivals Tolkien in its mastery. Inkdeath is … Download free opening extract
2		Magic Thief Sarah Prineas This is an absolutely captivating debut fantasy adventure. Full of magic and trickery, this is the story of a wizard and his new apprentice trying to discover why the magic in their city is fading and how they must … Download free opening extract
3		The Red Necklace Sally Gardner Set against the turbulent and drastically violent time of the French Revolution, this story is about a boy who is destined to become a hero. The plot takes you from Paris to London and back to Paris again to confront … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Brisingr Christopher Paolini Oaths are sworn, loyalties tested and forces collide in a fantasy epic that promises to be one of the key publishing sensations of 2008. This, the third in Paolini’s Inheritance cycle is eagerly awaited on Saturday 20th September when it … Download free opening extract
2		Boy In The Striped Pyjamas John Boyne Film due for release 12 Sep 2008. To see a trailer click here or scroll down. When Bruno’s father is promoted to a new job, the family have to move from their comfortable home in Berlin to a strange new house in … Download free opening extract
3		The Knife of Never Letting Go Patrick Ness Winner of the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize 2008. The electrifying and unflinching young adult debut novel about the impossible choices of growing up by award-winning fiction writer Patrick Ness. This title is part of Walker Books’ ‘New Voices’ campaign which throughout … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Before I Die Jenny Downham Winner of the Branford Boase Award 2008. This is a haunting yet truly amazing read but don’t read it too young. Definitely not for someone less than 14 years old. If you knew you were going to die what would … Download free opening extract
2		Tales Of Terror From The Black Ship Chris Priestley This is serious spine-tingling stuff and not for the faint-hearted, it’s a novel packed with chills, thrills, nail-biting suspense and heart-stopping revelations. Join Ethan and Cathy and steel yourself against the blood-curdling terror that lies ahead as you realise … Download free opening extract
3		The Knife That Killed Me Anthony Mcgowan No holds are barred in this gripping story about knife crime. And there’s no way to put it down…Tautly written, it captures how diffident Paul tries to chart his way through rival classroom gangs. Being an outsider is dangerous and … Download free opening extract

Featured Books Age 0 – 5 Years

1		The Story Blanket Ferida Wolff, Harriet May Savitz A beautifully heart-warming story about generosity rewarded with stunning illustrations by the award-winning illustrator Elena Odriozola. … Download free opening extract
2		Aliens Love Underpants! Claire Freedman   Joint winner of the Richard and Judy “Early” 5+ Category. Terrific illustrations capture the flood of jokes about pants that underlie this rhyming story now brilliantly brought to even greater life by the addition of a CD to accompany the story. There are … Download free opening extract
3		Pink! Lynne Rickards This is a delightful tale of learning that it’s ok and quite fun to be different.  When Patrick turns pink overnight he worries about what his friends might think and travels the world to find out.  A really heart-warming story … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Bob’s Best Ever Friend Simon Bartram Simon Bartram’s Man in the Moon as one of the most memorable, witty, and intriguing picture books of recent times and now at last, Bob, the man in the moon is back but looking for a best ever best friend … Download free opening extract
2		Tumtum and Nutmeg: The Great Escape Emily Bearn An absolutely delightful tale of secret friends and a cosy world in miniature told very simply with some charming detail. It’s very much Brambly Hedge meets The Borrowers. The life of the mice, Tumtum and Nutmeg who live at Nutmouse … Download free opening extract
3		Derek The Sheep Gary Northfield One of the Beano’s most popular cartoon strip characters, Derek the Sheep, makes his long-awaited entry into a bumper collection. Existing fans of Derek as well as children who enjoy a more graphic approach to reading will love this … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Waggit’s Tale Peter Howe This is an absolutely delightful and heart-warming animal tale about a puppy that gets dumped in the park by its owner. As he learns to fend for himself with the help of other strays, his life becomes both exciting and … Download free opening extract
2		Kaspar Michael Morpurgo A miraculous story of survival. Kaspar is a feline fairy tale which tells how, after a pampered life as Countess Kandinsky’s beloved pet which includes a spell staying in the Savoy, the eponymous cat survives the dramatic sinking of the … Download free opening extract
3		The Bfg Roald Dahl This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Inkheart 3: Inkdeath Cornelia Funke Cornelia Funke’s acclaimed Inkheart trilogy, whilst rooted in the real world, sweeps beyond words to the Inkworld, a richly imagined parallel place that is the stuff of classic fairy tales that rivals Tolkien in its mastery. Inkdeath is … Download free opening extract
2		The Red Necklace Sally Gardner Set against the turbulent and drastically violent time of the French Revolution, this story is about a boy who is destined to become a hero. The plot takes you from Paris to London and back to Paris again to confront … Download free opening extract
3		Magic Thief Sarah Prineas This is an absolutely captivating debut fantasy adventure. Full of magic and trickery, this is the story of a wizard and his new apprentice trying to discover why the magic in their city is fading and how they must … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Boy In The Striped Pyjamas John Boyne Film due for release 12 Sep 2008. To see a trailer click here or scroll down. When Bruno’s father is promoted to a new job, the family have to move from their comfortable home in Berlin to a strange new house in … Download free opening extract
2		Brisingr Christopher Paolini Oaths are sworn, loyalties tested and forces collide in a fantasy epic that promises to be one of the key publishing sensations of 2008. This, the third in Paolini’s Inheritance cycle is eagerly awaited on Saturday 20th September when it … Download free opening extract
3		Airhead Meg Cabot From the creator of Allie Finkle and The Princess Diaries comes a brand new novel featuring two very different girls, one a superbrain and the other a supermodel. They have absolutely nothing in common until something extraordinary happens. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Before I Die Jenny Downham Shortlisted for the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize 2008. The winner will be annouced 24th September. Winner of the Branford Boase Award 2008. This is a haunting yet truly amazing read but don’t read it too young. Definitely not for someone less … Download free opening extract
2		Tales Of Terror From The Black Ship Chris Priestley This is serious spine-tingling stuff and not for the faint-hearted, it’s a novel packed with chills, thrills, nail-biting suspense and heart-stopping revelations. Join Ethan and Cathy and steel yourself against the blood-curdling terror that lies ahead as you realise … Download free opening extract
3		The Knife That Killed Me Anthony Mcgowan No holds are barred in this gripping story about knife crime. And there’s no way to put it down…Tautly written, it captures how diffident Paul tries to chart his way through rival classroom gangs. Being an outsider is dangerous and … Download free opening extract

From Potential Prize Winners to Exclusive Pre Publication extracts along with a smattering of competitions we have enough new books to keep all your children absorbed, excited and entertained for the coming Autumn. Read on for more …..

New Features for September

2 exclusive competitions

This month there are 2 big children’s books. Naturally we are featuring them both and we have exclusive, free to enter prize draws with both of them. The first

 is the 3rd of the epic Inheritance Cycle series by Christopher Paolini. The final book is called Brisingr and we have a signed copy to give away with the other 2 in the series. Also September sees the next in the heart stopping ‘Young Bond’’ series by Charlie Higson. By Royal Command finds the young bond on the run in Austria trying to stop a deadly plot. We have signed copies to give away. Find out more on the website.

Pre-Publication stories to discover before the hordes:

Inkdeath   by Cornelia Funke For 9+ readers. The final book in the series and watch out for the film later this year.		Exposure    by Mal Peet For 14+ readers. Mystery and intrigue as someone tries to plot the scandalous downfall of a big soccer star.
The Story Blanket   by Elena Odriozola For 0-5 Readers. A beautiful illustrated story about ‘Babba Zarrah’, who makes new clothes for everyone in her village.		Mothstorm   by Philip Reeve   For 9+ readers. The third thrilling story of interplanetary peril in the Larklight series..
Tales of Terror from the Black Ship   by Chris Priestley Terrifyingly entertaining follow up with more dark stories for 14+ readers.		Waterslain Angels   by Kevin Crossley-Holland An atmospheric detective story set in 1950s Norfolk.
Comic Strip History   by Sally Kniberg For 7+ readers. Everything important that’s happened in the world – in pictures, brilliant!

Potential Prize winners

Finally in September we have the shortlists for two prestigious children’s book awards. You can read a free Opening Extract of them all on our website and decide which books you rate. The first is Guardian children’s fiction prize, which will be announced on September 24. Next the Booktrust teenage fiction prize where the winner will be announced on 18 November.

Happy reading and coming soon book selections for Halloween and Christmas!

Featured Books Age 0 – 5 Years

1		Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark – Book & CD Jill Tomlinson Plop is a baby owl. Perfect in every way – except for one. He’s afraid of the dark! But he soon discovers, through a variety of new friends, that dark can be fun and exciting and magical! This is a story for … Download free opening extract
2		My Grandpa’s Amazing Inventions Richard Johnson This is a wonderfully inspirational picture book for any young child.  Grandpa is an inventor and has been invited to enter a competition to win the ‘greatest invention prize’. Of course he wins it but that’s not all for something … Download free opening extract
3		Aliens Love Underpants! Claire Freedman  Joint winner of the Richard and Judy “Early” 5+ Category. Terrific illustrations capture the flood of jokes about pants that underlie this rhyming story now brilliantly brought to even greater life by the addition of a CD to accompany the story. There are … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Bob’s Best Ever Friend Simon Bartram Simon Bartram’s Man in the Moon as one of the most memorable, witty, and intriguing picture books of recent times and now at last, Bob, the man in the moon is back but looking for a best ever best friend … Download free opening extract
2		Tumtum and Nutmeg: The Great Escape Emily Bearn An absolutely delightful tale of secret friends and a cosy world in miniature told very simply with some charming detail. It’s very much Brambly Hedge meets The Borrowers. The life of the mice, Tumtum and Nutmeg who live at Nutmouse … Download free opening extract
3		Derek The Sheep Gary Northfield One of the Beano’s most popular cartoon strip characters, Derek the Sheep, makes his long-awaited entry into a bumper collection. Existing fans of Derek as well as children who enjoy a more graphic approach to reading will love this … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Waggit’s Tale Peter Howe This is an absolutely delightful and heart-warming animal tale about a puppy that gets dumped in the park by its owner. As he learns to fend for himself with the help of other strays, his life becomes both exciting and … Download free opening extract
2		The Bfg Roald Dahl This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also … Download free opening extract
3		Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Roald Dahl A book that requires no introduction as it is probably Dahl’s best-known and most read creation and deservedly so. The secretive and magical world of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory is revealed to five ‘lucky’ children, each of who has won … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Magic Thief Sarah Prineas This is an absolutely captivating debut fantasy adventure. Full of magic and trickery, this is the story of a wizard and his new apprentice trying to discover why the magic in their city is fading and how they must … Download free opening extract
2		The Mysterious Benedict Society Trenton Lee Stuart This is a No. 1 New York Times Bestseller that we’ve been raving about since it went stratospheric across the water earlier this year. Here you will meet four very unusual children each with three things in common – … Download free opening extract
3		The Eye of The Serpent Philip Caveney When Sir William Devlin and his assistant Tom open the tomb of Akhenaten they uncover something that has been hidden for three thousand years. That something is so terrifying that it changes the lives of both. When Sir William’s nephew … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Stormbreaker Anthony Horowitz A fabulous story that crackles with suspense and daring and shows that a bit of cheek will take you a very long way. Alex Rider is fourteen when his whole world is turned upside down. Already an orphan, his guardian … Download free opening extract
2		Airhead Meg Cabot From the creator of Allie Finkle and The Princess Diaries comes a brand new novel featuring two very different girls, one a superbrain and the other a supermodel. They have absolutely nothing in common until something extraordinary happens. … Download free opening extract
3		Boy In The Striped Pyjamas John Boyne Film due for release 12 Sep 2008. To see a trailer click here or scroll down. When Bruno’s father is promoted to a new job, the family have to move from their comfortable home in Berlin to a strange new house in … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Before I Die Jenny Downham Shortlisted for the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize 2008. The winner will be annouced 24th September. Winner of the Branford Boase Award 2008. This is a haunting yet truly amazing read but don’t read it too young. Definitely not for someone less … Download free opening extract
2		Tales Of Terror From The Black Ship Chris Priestley This is serious spine-tingling stuff and not for the faint-hearted, it’s a novel packed with chills, thrills, nail-biting suspense and heart-stopping revelations. Join Ethan and Cathy and steel yourself against the blood-curdling terror that lies ahead as you realise … Download free opening extract
3		The Knife That Killed Me Anthony Mcgowan No holds are barred in this gripping story about knife crime. And there’s no way to put it down…Tautly written, it captures how diffident Paul tries to chart his way through rival classroom gangs. Being an outsider is dangerous and … Download free opening extract

Featured Books Age 0 – 5 Years

1		Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark – Book & CD Jill Tomlinson Plop is a baby owl. Perfect in every way – except for one. He’s afraid of the dark! But he soon discovers, through a variety of new friends, that dark can be fun and exciting and magical! This is a story for … Download free opening extract
2		Colin And The Wrong Shadow Leigh Hodgkinson A stunning picture book from a wonderfully talented new children’s artist. Colin the cat is a very appealing protagonist, but he has a problem. Somebody has borrowed his shadow and given him someone else’s. Join Colin as … Download free opening extract
3		My Grandpa’s Amazing Inventions Richard Johnson This is a wonderfully inspirational picture book for any young child.  Grandpa is an inventor and has been invited to enter a competition to win the ‘greatest invention prize’. Of course he wins it but that’s not all for something … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Tumtum and Nutmeg: The Great Escape Emily Bearn An absolutely delightful tale of secret friends and a cosy world in miniature told very simply with some charming detail. It’s very much Brambly Hedge meets The Borrowers. The life of the mice, Tumtum and Nutmeg who live at Nutmouse … Download free opening extract
2		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
3		Little Mouse’s Big Book Of Fears Emily Gravett Winner of the of the 2008 Kate Greenaway Medal. This award winning author illustrator continues to create some of the most innovative and imaginative illustrated children’s books. Through nursery rhyme stories follow Little Mouse as he confronts his many fears including Ablutophobia (Fear … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Waggit’s Tale Peter Howe This is an absolutely delightful and heart-warming animal tale about a puppy that gets dumped in the park by its owner. As he learns to fend for himself with the help of other strays, his life becomes both exciting and … Download free opening extract
2		Wow! 366: Speedy Stories In Just 366 Words Various Authors , Ian Whybrow, Georgia Byng, Roddy Doyle, Jeremy Strong This anthology of 240 mini stories, each told in just 366 words, features authors such as Roddy Doyle, Raymond Briggs, Charlie Higson, Michael Morpurgo and a surprise entry from the current Prime Minister Gordon Brown. This book is a great … Download free opening extract
3		The Bfg Roald Dahl This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The Mysterious Benedict Society Trenton Lee Stuart This is a No. 1 New York Times Bestseller that we’ve been raving about since it went stratospheric across the water earlier this year. Here you will meet four very unusual children each with three things in common – … Download free opening extract
2		Oathbreaker Michelle Paver Welcome to best-selling author Michelle Paver’s latest in the Chronicles of Ancient Darkness.This is the series that began with Wolf Brother and now continues with the story of Torak alongside his trusted and loyal Wolf. Once an outcast, Torak has … Download free opening extract
3		Magic Thief Sarah Prineas This is an absolutely captivating debut fantasy adventure. Full of magic and trickery, this is the story of a wizard and his new apprentice trying to discover why the magic in their city is fading and how they must … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Airhead Meg Cabot From the creator of Allie Finkle and The Princess Diaries comes a brand new novel featuring two very different girls, one a superbrain and the other a supermodel. They have absolutely nothing in common until something extraordinary happens. … Download free opening extract
2		The Resistance Gemma Malley This is an absolutely chilling, powerful sequel to Gemma malley’s acclaimed debut, The Declaration. With a dark and sinister vision of the future, it is set in 2140, The Resistance is an incredibly thought-provoking read. We raved about her … Download free opening extract
3		Pendragon: The Merchant of Death D J Machale This is the first in an epic series of adventures through time and space featuring a daring hero, Bobby Pendragon, with a quest to save the world. Time travel, adventure and excitement will greet the reader and if Pendragon … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Before I Die Jenny Downham Winner of the Branford Boase Award 2008. This is a haunting yet truly amazing read but don’t read it too young. Definitely not for someone less than 14 years old. If you knew you were going to die what would … Download free opening extract
2		Tales Of Terror From The Black Ship Chris Priestley This is serious spine-tingling stuff and not for the faint-hearted, it’s a novel packed with chills, thrills, nail-biting suspense and heart-stopping revelations. Join Ethan and Cathy and steel yourself against the blood-curdling terror that lies ahead as you realise … Download free opening extract
3		Life On The Refrigerator Door Alice Kuipers Beautifully told through notes left on the kitchen fridge, here is an intimate glimpse into the lives of a mother who has just discovered she’s got cancer, and her teenage daughter. This tragic but ultimately uplifting debut novel explores what being a ‘good … Download free opening extract