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

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Ant and Bee Angela Banner I remember the original Ant and Bee books.  Mine had a cloth cover, smelt musty and the pages were falling out!  Here, the books have been beautifully revamped and revitalised with colourful new pictures by Angela Banner whilst maintaining the … Download free opening extract
2		More Ant and Bee Angela Banner The much-loved Ant and Bee are back! More Ant and Bee is another alphabetical story in which the dynamic duo fly off to Asia, introducing children to longer words along the way. … Download free opening extract
3		Kangaroos Hop Ros Moriarty Kangaroos Hop is full of bold and colourful pictures of our favourite Australian animals, set in a backdrop of the Australian landscape together with very simple repeating text throughout this delightful picture book. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Hooray for Bread Allan Ahlberg February 2013 Book of the Month  Allan Ahlberg at his masterful best with words that just slip off the tongue complemented by some delightful illustrations by Bruce Ingman.  The two of them have come together a number of times now … Download free opening extract
2		Pancake Pandemonium Anita Pouroulis You might say pancakes are little Polly’s favourite treat. Or you might say she’s a little obsessed. Either way when mum’s too busy to rustle up her favourite snack Polly decides to take the initiative. Though she ends up wishing … Download free opening extract
3		The Wind in the Wallows Jeanne Willis A side-splitting look at a topic every child knows and giggles about – noisy bottoms! – cheeky, quirky and outrageous humour from this bestselling team. Boys in particular will love this but beware parents they may decide to wallow around … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Sam Who Went to Sea Phyllis Root Written in lyrical prose by Phyllis Root and illustrated in bright bold colours by Axel Sheffler, the illustrator of The Gruffalo, this book is the story of a river rat who follows his heart and realises his dreams when he … Download free opening extract
2		Monster and Chips David O’Connell Meet the amazing monster customers and sample the foul-food served up daily at Fuzzby’s diner – the brilliant setting for this innovative series from debut author and illustrator, David O’Connell. Boys aged 6 or 7 upwards will love the series … Download free opening extract
3		Attack of the Lizard King Rex Stone Exciting adventures in this easy to read series about two boys and the dangerous dinosaurs they encounter – especially the deadly Tyrannosaurus Rex. Jamie’s dad is opening a dinosaur museum in Dinosaur Cove. Jamie expects to find some fossils but … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Stick Dog Tom Watson January 2013 Debut of the Month Originally self-published as an e-book, Stick Dog has been a bestseller in the US throughout 2011 and is now published in the UK. With hilarious illustrations and pitch-perfect humour which appeals to both child and … Download free opening extract
2		Little Manfred Michael Morpurgo January 2013 Book of the Month Award-winning author and illustrator duo Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman have created a touching story about the way lives become entangled during conflict and how, unexpectedly, those ties can lead to enduring friendship. When Alex … Download free opening extract
3		The Three Pickled Herrings (wings & Co 2) Sally Gardner February 2013 Book of the Month Award-winning Sally Gardner has written a deliciously topsy-turvy story as Wings & Co, a rather special fairy detective agency, gets on the case. When Sir Walter Cross, a man of remarkably regular habits, does … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The Boy Who Swam with Piranhas David Almond Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Awards 2013 – Best Story  Award-winning David Almond tells a deliciously funny and refreshingly original story of Stanley, a boy who takes off on a journey of enlightenment and discovery after his uncle, whom … Download free opening extract
2		Dear Scarlett Fleur Hitchcock February 2013 Book of the Month  This refreshingly original story unravels an intriguing mystery surrounding a girl’s father. When she turns eleven, Scarlett receives a box of ‘tools’ – the kind used for picking locks  – from her dead father, … Download free opening extract
3		Penny Dreadful is a Record Breaker Joanna Nadin February 2013 Book of the Month Three lively stories for newly- confident readers matched by eye-catching illustrations are gathered up in this one volume.  Of course, Dreadful is not Penny’s real name but it fits her well, as these stories about … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Hero on a Bicycle Shirley Hughes Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Awards 2013 – Best Story   Best-selling illustrator Shirley Hughes writes beautifully in this gripping story set during World War Two. Living in Italy during the occupation by the Germans, Paolo and his sister Constanza … Download free opening extract
2		OMG! is This Actually My Life? Hattie Moore’s Unbelievable Year! Rae Earl February 2013 Debut of the Month Hattie Moore’s diary will delight all those who already revel in the life of Louise Rennison’s Georgia Nicholson. Hattie’s life is a hilarious catalogue of typical teenage earth-shattering catastrophes most of which relate to Hattie’s … Download free opening extract
3		East of the Sun, West of the Moon Jackie Morris A treat of a tale, this makes a rich full-length story out of a classic folk tale from the snowy northern lands.  Living in poverty after has family has been forced to leave their home, a young girl is visited … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Seeking Crystal Joss Stirling February 2013 eBook of the Month   A captivating story from the much-admired pen of Joss Stirling, creator of Finding Sky and Stealing Phoenix.  Crystal Brook seems doomed to play second fiddle to her more successful, more popular sister Diamond.  However, … Download free opening extract
2		Million Dollar Gift Ian Somers February 2013 Debut of the Month  Ross Bentley has the gift of telekinesis but has always kept it hidden, even from those closest to him. But when he learns of The Million Dollar Gift, a contest to find people with … Download free opening extract
3		Hidden Among Us Katy Moran A sophisticated and complex novel told in different voices, this interweaves a contemporary family story with a haunting story of another world – the place where the elven folk live. As a newly formed family gather in an old family … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Monkey Nut Simon Rickerty Bold images brilliantly convey this witty story about how much trouble one monkey nut can cause! One nut; two friends. The friends find a monkey nut can be a bench, a drum or a boat – in fact, there seems … Download free opening extract
2		A Bit Lost Chris Haughton When Little Owl falls out of the nest he needs help to find his way home again. Luckily squirrel is keen to help but how does he know what Little Owl’s mummy will look like? Young readers will enjoy the … Download free opening extract
3		Kangaroos Hop Ros Moriarty Kangaroos Hop is full of bold and colourful pictures of our favourite Australian animals, set in a backdrop of the Australian landscape together with very simple repeating text throughout this delightful picture book. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Hooray for Bread Allan Ahlberg February 2013 Book of the Month  Allan Ahlberg at his masterful best with words that just slip off the tongue complemented by some delightful illustrations by Bruce Ingman.  The two of them have come together a number of times now … Download free opening extract
2		Pancake Pandemonium Anita Pouroulis You might say pancakes are little Polly’s favourite treat. Or you might say she’s a little obsessed. Either way when mum’s too busy to rustle up her favourite snack Polly decides to take the initiative. Though she ends up wishing … Download free opening extract
3		Friends Michael Foreman Award-winning Michael Foreman puts an unlikely friendship at the heart of this captivating story of a cat and a fish who become such firm friends that the fish chooses friendship over freedom. Together the friends tour the world – especially … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Attack of the Lizard King Rex Stone Exciting adventures in this easy to read series about two boys and the dangerous dinosaurs they encounter – especially the deadly Tyrannosaurus Rex. Jamie’s dad is opening a dinosaur museum in Dinosaur Cove. Jamie expects to find some fossils but … Download free opening extract
2		Sam Who Went to Sea Phyllis Root Written in lyrical prose by Phyllis Root and illustrated in bright bold colours by Axel Sheffler, the illustrator of The Gruffalo, this book is the story of a river rat who follows his heart and realises his dreams when he … Download free opening extract
3		Fluff the Farting Fish Michael Rosen Perfect for every child who’s just beginning to read alone, this hilarious tale is a roller coaster ride of fame and fortune and the possible resulting disasters. Elvie longs for a dog but gets a goldfish instead! Undeterred from following … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Stick Dog Tom Watson January 2013 Debut of the Month Originally self-published as an e-book, Stick Dog has been a bestseller in the US throughout 2011 and is now published in the UK. With hilarious illustrations and pitch-perfect humour which appeals to both child and … Download free opening extract
2		The Three Pickled Herrings (wings & Co 2) Sally Gardner February 2013 Book of the Month Award-winning Sally Gardner has written a deliciously topsy-turvy story as Wings & Co, a rather special fairy detective agency, gets on the case. When Sir Walter Cross, a man of remarkably regular habits, does … Download free opening extract
3		Little Manfred Michael Morpurgo January 2013 Book of the Month Award-winning author and illustrator duo Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman have created a touching story about the way lives become entangled during conflict and how, unexpectedly, those ties can lead to enduring friendship. When Alex … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The Boy Who Swam with Piranhas David Almond Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Awards 2013 – Best Story  Award-winning David Almond tells a deliciously funny and refreshingly original story of Stanley, a boy who takes off on a journey of enlightenment and discovery after his uncle, whom … Download free opening extract
2		Penny Dreadful is a Record Breaker Joanna Nadin February 2013 Book of the Month Three lively stories for newly- confident readers matched by eye-catching illustrations are gathered up in this one volume.  Of course, Dreadful is not Penny’s real name but it fits her well, as these stories about … Download free opening extract
3		Dear Scarlett Fleur Hitchcock February 2013 Book of the Month  This refreshingly original story unravels an intriguing mystery surrounding a girl’s father. When she turns eleven, Scarlett receives a box of ‘tools’ – the kind used for picking locks  – from her dead father, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		East of the Sun, West of the Moon Jackie Morris A treat of a tale, this makes a rich full-length story out of a classic folk tale from the snowy northern lands.  Living in poverty after has family has been forced to leave their home, a young girl is visited … Download free opening extract
2		OMG! is This Actually My Life? Hattie Moore’s Unbelievable Year! Rae Earl February 2013 Debut of the Month Hattie Moore’s diary will delight all those who already revel in the life of Louise Rennison’s Georgia Nicholson. Hattie’s life is a hilarious catalogue of typical teenage earth-shattering catastrophes most of which relate to Hattie’s … Download free opening extract
3		Hero on a Bicycle Shirley Hughes Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Awards 2013 – Best Story   Best-selling illustrator Shirley Hughes writes beautifully in this gripping story set during World War Two. Living in Italy during the occupation by the Germans, Paolo and his sister Constanza … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Seeking Crystal Joss Stirling February 2013 eBook of the Month   A captivating story from the much-admired pen of Joss Stirling, creator of Finding Sky and Stealing Phoenix.  Crystal Brook seems doomed to play second fiddle to her more successful, more popular sister Diamond.  However, … Download free opening extract
2		Million Dollar Gift Ian Somers February 2013 Debut of the Month  Ross Bentley has the gift of telekinesis but has always kept it hidden, even from those closest to him. But when he learns of The Million Dollar Gift, a contest to find people with … Download free opening extract
3		Dead Romantic C.J. Skuse February 2013 Book of the Month  Very funny and touching, this is a refreshingly original teen novel which stirs traditional themes into a thought provoking mix of science and more. Newly into sixth form college, Camille – unfortunately named after … Download free opening extract

KIDS SITE TOP 10

1		The Boy Who Swam with Piranhas David Almond Award-winning David Almond tells a deliciously funny and refreshingly original story of Stanley, a boy who takes off on a journey of enlightenment and discovery after his uncle, whom he lives with, goes distinctly barmy and turns his home upside … Download free opening extract
2		Witches at War!: The Wild Winter Martin Howard The third and much anticipated final instalment in the highly-praised Witches at War! series.  Hilarious fun for children aged 8+ and brilliant for parents and children to read together.  There are stunning illustrations throughout in this beautifully produced small hardback … Download free opening extract
3		Constable and Toop Gareth P. Jones Funny, gruesome and scary, with the great setting of a funeral parlour, this is an action packed adventure full of the darker and dirtier details of life in Victorian London. Sam’s father buries the dead which maybe why they find … Download free opening extract
4		The Great Unexpected Sharon Creech This is a stunning and unexpected tale in which curious things happen to strange and magical people and creatures. It’s a story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished it and one that you will be drawn back … Download free opening extract
5		The Snake Who Came To Stay Julia Donaldson Interest Age 5-8 Reading Age 6+. When Polly sets up an animal home for pets, she doesn’t anticipate quite how many problems she may face! But then, she doesn’t know she is going to be asked to look after a … Download free opening extract
6		Pirates Love Underpants Claire Freedman ‘Pants ahoy!’ in this hilarious new adventure by the best-selling author /illustrator duo of Aliens Love Underpants. Armed with a map, the pirate captain and his crew are off to search for the elusive Pants of Gold which are known … Download free opening extract
7		Ghost Knight Cornelia Funke This is a thrilling tale of bravery, friendship – and ghosts from one of the foremost contemporary writers for children and author of The Inkheart trilogy that was made into a successful movie! It’s a book that goes ‘Bump in … Download free opening extract
8		Operation Bunny Sally Gardner A brand new quirky detective series called WINGS & Co. brimming with humour, mystery and magic by million-copy selling author Sally Gardner and illustrated by David Roberts.  Operation Bunny is the first case for the Fairy Detective Agency and with … Download free opening extract
9		Moody Margaret Casts a Spell Francesca Simon Short chapters and colour illustrations bring a favourite Horrid Henry story to life for newly confident readers with full colour illustrations from the fabulous Tony Ross on every page!. This pack contains a paperback and an unabridged CD. … Download free opening extract
10		The Wind in the Willows Kenneth Grahame The classic story of Ratty, Toad and Badger – three friends who live on the riverbank – is full of adventure, excitement and wonderful characters. David Roberts’ illustrations bring a touch of sophistication to the familiar story and capture perfectly … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Again! Emily Gravett Prize-winning Emily Gravett has hit the jackpot again with a brilliant and original picture book that will delight adults as much as children. Everyone knows that the best bedtime stories can be read again and again and again… But sometimes, … Download free opening extract
2		Oh No, George! Chris Haughton Shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2012.  Chris Haughton’s distinctive artwork perfectly accompanies the innocent charm of affable George, a dog trying to be good – with hilarious results! This is the second picture book from rapidly rising star … Download free opening extract
3		Spooky Spooky Spooky Cathy Maclennan Explore what spooky goings-on there are in the dead of night.  Wacky and wonderful, it’s a fabulous read-aloud tale to share again and again particularly if it’s Halloween!  You’ll meet velvety bats and howling cats and not forgetting the bug-eyed … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Pirates Love Underpants Claire Freedman ‘Pants ahoy!’ in this hilarious new adventure by the best-selling author /illustrator duo of Aliens Love Underpants. Armed with a map, the pirate captain and his crew are off to search for the elusive Pants of Gold which are known … Download free opening extract
2		This is Not My Hat Jon Klassen Best-selling illustrator Jon Klassen follows up his successful I Want My Hat Back in this witty, almost wordless picture book about a tiny fish who steals a hat from a very big fish – and hopes to get away with … Download free opening extract
3		The Journey Home Frann Preston-Gannon A thought-provoking story with a powerful message about conservation from an award-winning, rising illustrator and literary star.  It is the first book by the first-ever UK recipient of the amazing ‘Sendak Fellowship’ and created with input from the great Maurice … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		The Snake Who Came To Stay Julia Donaldson Interest Age 5-8 Reading Age 6+. When Polly sets up an animal home for pets, she doesn’t anticipate quite how many problems she may face! But then, she doesn’t know she is going to be asked to look after a … Download free opening extract
2		Moody Margaret Casts a Spell Francesca Simon Short chapters and colour illustrations bring a favourite Horrid Henry story to life for newly confident readers with full colour illustrations from the fabulous Tony Ross on every page!. This pack contains a paperback and an unabridged CD. … Download free opening extract
3		Sad Tales for Me A Bio(dog)raphy James Barklee This is the story of James the dog told by himself.  His heart-warming story will resonate with readers, who identify with many of the feelings James shares. Like when James is sad or scared, or feeling brave, even when he’s … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		The Boy Who Swam with Piranhas David Almond Award-winning David Almond tells a deliciously funny and refreshingly original story of Stanley, a boy who takes off on a journey of enlightenment and discovery after his uncle, whom he lives with, goes distinctly barmy and turns his home upside … Download free opening extract
2		Operation Bunny Sally Gardner A brand new quirky detective series called WINGS & Co. brimming with humour, mystery and magic by million-copy selling author Sally Gardner and illustrated by David Roberts.  Operation Bunny is the first case for the Fairy Detective Agency and with … Download free opening extract
3		Who Could That be at This Hour? Lemony Snicket Bestselling Lemony Snicket’s fast-talking writing is brilliantly on display in this wise cracking detective story which is full of references to the great detective writers of the past. Thirteen year Snicket is apprenticed to S. Theodora Markson, a second rate … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Witches at War!: The Wild Winter Martin Howard The third and much anticipated final instalment in the highly-praised Witches at War! series.  Hilarious fun for children aged 8+ and brilliant for parents and children to read together.  There are stunning illustrations throughout in this beautifully produced small hardback … Download free opening extract
2		The Great Unexpected Sharon Creech This is a stunning and unexpected tale in which curious things happen to strange and magical people and creatures. It’s a story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished it and one that you will be drawn back … Download free opening extract
3		Constable and Toop Gareth P. Jones Funny, gruesome and scary, with the great setting of a funeral parlour, this is an action packed adventure full of the darker and dirtier details of life in Victorian London. Sam’s father buries the dead which maybe why they find … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Under My Hat: Tales from the Cauldron Neil Gaiman, Holly Black, Garth Nix A sizzling collection of witch tales from some of the best writers from around the world, this anthology looks at all kinds of witches – cruel, kind, funny, dour – and the paraphernalia of their profession. What all trusting readers … Download free opening extract
2		Eleven Eleven Paul Dowswell A powerful combination of historic detail, timeless narrative and action-packed plot.  The author places three teenagers, one American, one British and the other German at the centre of the story in the lead up to the 11th day of the … Download free opening extract
3		Oblivion Anthony Horowitz Best-selling Anthony Horowitz gives his eager fans a roller coaster ride in this thrilling addition to his supernatural Power of Five sequence of stories. Time has moved on, the Five have been separated and the world is now broken possibly … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Jepp, Who Defied the Stars Katherine Marsh Thrilling, romantic and in turns heart-warming and heartbreaking, Jepp is a highly original and unforgettable story about one young mans struggle to escape his destiny. Based on the real 17th century historical figure, Jepp’s story includes violence, love, astrology, and … Download free opening extract
2		Maggot Moon Sally Gardner September 2012 Book of the Month. Sally Gardner tells a story that is rich in drama and ideas as Standish Treadwell, an unlikely hero, takes on the vicious forces of the repressive motherland in a novel set in a bleak … Download free opening extract
3		Zom-B Darren Shan The exciting new series from the master of teen horror. Zom-B is a radical new series about a zombie apocalypse, told in the first person by one of its victims. The series combines classic Shan action with a fiendishly twisting … Download free opening extract

Welcome to September from all of us at Lovereading4kids! This month we have hundreds of great titles for kids of all ages to get stuck into from our Picture Book Picnic category full of books for babies and toddlers to our Undercover Reads for teens. Read on to discover what’s hot off the press this month…

Special Powers, Crime-Fighting and Time Travel

Our thrilling Author of the Month this month is Sophie McKenzie. The former journalist started writing novels after being made redundant and has been showered with awards ever since. Her latest book, Sister, Missing, is the twist-packed sequel to (multi award-winning) Girl, Missing in which a 14 year old girl is kidnapped. Two years later, her nightmare continues when her little sister disappears on a family holiday. As gripping as it is disturbing, it’s a great read for anyone aged 12+. Sophie is also author of the brilliant Medusa Project series – the thrilling adventures of a team of teens with psychic powers. The 5th in the series Double Cross was published in June.

Book your September!

With our Books of the Month for September you will find a glut of great reads for all ages and abilities. But if you have a nine year old then do not miss our funny and warm-hearted MEGA Book of the Month from the brilliant Roddy Doyle – A Greyhound of a Girl book. See all the Books of Months by clicking here.

Share the Love! – Spread the word and get rewards!

We hope you love our children’s book website and we’d like to reward you for spreading the word about our site to your friends. Recommend our site to other book loving parents and you can collect ‘Love-hearts’ for money off your next purchase. Click here to find out how it works and start reaping rewards! Recommending just one person in September will get you £2 of Lovehearts to start, or add to your collection and you will also get £1 of Lovehearts for each new friend that registers with Lovereading4kids. Find out more today…

Picture Perfection … Illustrator of the Month – David McKee

Prolific illustrator and children’s author David McKee has been at it since 1964 and has been at the top of his paint palette ever since! He started out selling cartoons to newspapers while still at school and 45 years later is the author and illustrator of hundreds of books. Best known for his own Elmer series, David’s latest gem is Elmer and Super El, a beautifully colourful adventure for fun-loving kids aged 5 and under. Why not have a look at this and his other many fabulous books here – they’re great additions to every child’s bookshelf.

Nuts about Children’s Books! – Our Guest Editor, David Almond

Winner of the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2010 for outstanding contribution to children’s literature, our Guest Editor this month is the imaginative and brilliant David Almond. Growing up in a large family where story-telling was the norm, David’s first book, Skellig, made a massive impact.

Since then his sensitive, timeless stories about faith and the complexities of childhood have become firm favourites of young readers up and down the country. We are delighted that he has taken the time to hang out with us this month and share some of the tales and books that have influenced his life.

It’s a First! – Our Debuts of the Month

No Use Crying Zannah Kearns Colourful and engaging – a young girl searches for her true identity. Download Extract   Buy	Dark Inside Jeyn Roberts An End-of-Days tale of courage and survival in the face of a diabolical, destructive virus. Download Extract   Buy
Mist Kathryn James Dark, mysterious story of two clashing cultures and friendship tested to the limit. Download Extract   Buy	Wickedness Deborah White Magical reality, history, mystery, fantasy and romance. What’s not to love? Download Extract   Buy
Words in the Dust Trent Reedy A coming of age tale set in modern Afghanistan – a breath-taking, beautiful and eye-opening debut. Download Extract   Buy	History Keepers: The Storm Begins Damian Dibben Think Harry Potter meets Doctor Who – a new hero has arrived! Download Extract   Buy
Amazing Esme Tamara Macfarlane Holiday capers in a castle fairground. Who’d have thought leaving the circus could be so much fun! Download Extract   Buy	My Bear Griz Suzanne McGinness Fabulously fun playtime adventures for a little boy … and his pet grizzly bear. Obviously! Download Extract   Buy

Term of Endearment – Our Back to School Section

Our Back to School section has undergone a big summer makeover and is now ready for the rush! It has all you will need to send them back for the new term with some of the most up-to-date dictionaries, thesauruses and atlases from the No. 1 publisher of Back to School titles, Oxford University Press. Organised by school year group, it is easy to find exactly what you need.

And for those heading off to nursery school then look no further than the new Biff, Chip and Kipper reading at home series, which apart from some great storybooks, have just released some brilliant flashcards.

That’s one less thing to worry about. Now, where did they leave their satchels….?

So, that’s September at Lovereading4kids. kids home page As they go back to school and you get some more time on your hands, why not choose some books for yourself too at our ‘grown-ups’ site Lovereading.co.uk? main site home page We’re always happy to see you. Meanwhile we’ll be back in October with more great ideas.

P.S – Don’t miss the chance to get your hands on copies of the latest Gothic horror tale Midwinter Blood from Marcus Sedgwick and the 3rd Jack Christie adventure from Johnny O’Brien – we have 100 of each to give away but be quick the competitions close on 15 September.

See below for more recommendations in the age ranges you have said you would like to be kept up to date with.

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		When I Dream of ABC Henry Fisher Wonderfully dreamy and fantastical illustrations – opera singing mermaids, shy dragons and even chocolate drinking vampires – combine with simple text to encourage children to learn their ABC.  Perfect as a bedtime read as after the parent has gone it’s … Download free opening extract
2		Christmas Time Alison Jay Come on a journey through Alison Jay’s magical festive world! Discover all the things that make Christmas the most special time of the year and see if you can spot two lucky children who are on their own Christmas Eve … Download free opening extract
3		The Story of the Little Mole – The Sound Book Werner Holzwarth The best-selling Little Mole has been delighting or displeasing readers according to their taste in toilet humour for a couple of decades. All young children will adore this sound version which adds an important dimension to the story of Little … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Dog Loves Books Louise Yates Winner of the Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2010 (Funniest Book for Children aged Six and Under). Shortlisted for the Independent Booksellers’ Book Prize 2010. The magic of books and reading is perfectly illustrated in this joyful picture book. Dog loves books … Download free opening extract
2		Goodnight Tiptoe Polly Dunbar As with all Walker Books titles this doesn’t just have a fabulous story to it but it’s beautifully printed and bound in paperback on quality paper – it really makes a wonderfully affordable gift for babies and toddlers. Goodnight Tiptoe … Download free opening extract
3		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

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Farther Grahame Baker-Smith Graham Baker-Smith’s debut Leon and the Place Between was shortlisted for the prestigious Greenaway Medal in 2010. Farther is the first book that he’s written and illustrated himself and it’s utterly captivating.  The text is so beautifully placed and inextricably … Download free opening extract
2		Quentin Blake’s Magical Tales John Yeoman, Quentin Blake Beautifully told, the fourteen folk stories in this collection are taken from around the world giving a slice of different kinds of magic from different times. In all there are elements of enchantment, transformation and trickery as the kind and … Download free opening extract
3		Grow Your Own Monsters Nicola Davies, Simon Hickmott, Clive Boursnell A practical guide to growing all kinds of unusual plants – not the ordinary, good looking ones that most people choose to grow! Voodoo Lilies, Venus Fly Traps, Squirting Cucumbers and Abyssinian Bananas are just some of the exotic and … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		A Boy Called M.O.U.S.E. Penny Dolan An evocative and thrilling tale, set in a richly colourful Dickensian world, featuring a small boy, Mouse, whose parents are lost at sea, and whose life is threatened by the claims of his money-grabbing and debt-ridden Uncle and he is … Download free opening extract
2		Bink & Gollie Kate DiCamillo, Alison McGhee With deliciously spare text and delightful cartoons, the way friends Bink and Gollie, two very different girls both with very strong views(!), manage to be supportive of each other and also to give each other space to do their own … Download free opening extract
3		Lost Dogs Garrett Carr Ballydog may well be a weird, weird town (in Ireland as it happens) with weird  characters, and monsters giving it that supernatural touch but this is a great read.  The author is a terrific storyteller and has clearly had a … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Billionaire Boy David Walliams Hugely entertaining, this captivating story is also thought provoking about the perils of having way too much money. Joe Spud is the richest twelve-year-old in the world; he has everything his heart desires – except happiness. As one disaster follows … Download free opening extract
2		Alien Storm A.G. Taylor A gripping science-fiction adventure pits a group of kids with super powers against a mysterious Russian billionaire. Infected by an extraordinary virus from a meteor storm, Sarah, Robert and the younger children in their charge are now at risk from … Download free opening extract
3		The Iron Man Ted Hughes A stunning new version of a much-loved children’s classic with stunning and unusual illustations from Laura Carlin. Part modern fairy tale, part science fiction myth, The Iron Man describes the unexpected arrival in England of a mysterious giant “metal man” … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Unhooking the Moon Gregory Hughes Winner of the BookTrust Teenage Book Prize 2010 and shortlisted for the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize 2010. One absolutely, indisputably MEGA story! This highly recommended title is a beautifully written, utterly original, funny and bittersweet tale about two newly orphaned kids … Download free opening extract
2		Withering Tights Louise Rennison Winner of the Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2010 (Funniest Book for Children aged Seven to Fourteen). Laugh out loud at this launch title of a brilliant new series by Queen of Teen author Louise Rennison. Tallulah Casey, cousin of the … Download free opening extract
3		My Name is Mina David Almond For everyone who loved David Almond’s Skellig, My Name is Mina is its prequel written over 10 years after Skellig was published to such acclaim.  Skellig remains one of THE bestselling and well known novels of the last decade. So here, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Matched Ally Condie Introducing a rare new talent and almost certainly one of the biggest Young Adult debuts of the year this is the first in an utterly compelling, visionary and imaginative series that is set to be a sensation. The book is … Download free opening extract
2		The Truth About Leo David Yelland Shortlisted for the Young Minds Book Award 2010 Full of insight, this is a deeply moving story about how a child handles a parent with a serious problem. Leo’s life with his father is a mess but there is no way … Download free opening extract
3		You Against Me Jenny Downham Prize-winning Jenny Downham’s debut novel Before I Die was the profoundly moving story of the death of a teenager. Told with immense insight and compassion it showed Jenny’s talent for understanding the energetic positivity of teenagers; how, for them, the … Download free opening extract

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		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		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
2		Charlie and Lola’s Clothes Lauren Child Favourite characters Charlie and Lola show off the clothes they love in this attractive, brightly coloured board book. Gloves, socks, bobble hats, a dress and trousers – all are almost touchable in these bold illustrations. … Download free opening extract
3		I’m the Best Lucy Cousins Lovely bold illustrations capture Dog’s boundless and boastful enthusiasm. Dog loves his friends; he thinks they are brilliant but he also thinks that he is the best. How Dog’s friends show him how loveable he is, even if he is … 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		Christian, the Hugging Lion Justin Richardson, Peter Parnell An amazing, heart-warming and true story of how a lion cub grows up as a pet and ends up returned to his real home in the wilds of Kenya. When Ace and John see Christian the lion cub in Harrods, … Download free opening extract
3		The Lion Book of Two minute Bedtime Stories Elena Pasquali This book is a lovely collection of short bedtime stories from around the world.  Including ones by Aesop and Hans Christian Andersen and from countries as far and wide as Mauritius and Iran, the stories are retold in simple words … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		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
2		A Birthday Surprise: A Pocket Money Puffin Sue Bentley Full of magical excitement this is a charming story which tells how Martina helps Splash, the little puffin who loses his way returning from his first magic mission, to find his way home. Martina’s friendship with Splash gives her the … Download free opening extract
3		Crazy Hair Neil Gaiman Shortlisted for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2010. A father and child discover the joys of his crazy hair in this brilliant picture book. Bonnie tries to tame her father’s hair, but to no avail, as birds and beasts of every type jostle … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		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
2		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
3		The World at Our Feet Football Poems Paul Cookson A terrific little book that’s full of poems about football. Many kids think poems are not for them, but perhaps with football fever in the air, as it is at the moment you can persuade them otherwise.  This collection is … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		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
2		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
3		Hazel’s Phantasmagoria Leander Deeny This is a stunning first novel, with exceptional quality writing and a uniquely imaginative plot. The author has combined the rich, gifted imagination of Lewis Carroll and Maurice Sendak with the child/adult crossover appeal of Mark Haddon. The plot is … 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		The Graveyard Book (illustrated by Chris Riddell) Neil Gaiman Shortlisted for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2010. Spooks galore in this brilliant and fantastic story of life in the graveyard. When Baby Bod escapes a murderer intent on killing his whole family, he is taken in by the graveyard ghosts. … Download free opening extract
3		The Vanishing of Katharina Linden Helen Grant Shortlisted for the CLIP Carnegie Medai 2010. This debut novel is a great page-turner with an endearing story that’s full of rich detail and beautifully written.  It has a terrific sense of place.  Although the narrator is only 10 years old, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Paper Towns John Green Award winning author John Green’s fresh-voiced novel is an utterly gripping story that gives a roller-coaster, unputdownable read. Strongly set with all the details of life in high school, at its heart is the powerful relationship between Quentin and Margo, … Download free opening extract
2		Viola in Reel Life Adriana Trigiani Full of a zest, this captures how a newcomer to Prefect Academy learns to enjoy the boarding school environment she thought she would hate. Viola provides a hugely entertaining account of Perfect and the people in it initially using her … Download free opening extract
3		If I Stay Gayle Forman Gripping, heartrending and ultimately life-affirming, If I Stay is a haunting novel about the power of love and loss – a story that won’t quite let you go. It will make you appreciate all that you have, all that you’ve … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		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
2		I’m the Best Lucy Cousins Lovely bold illustrations capture Dog’s boundless and boastful enthusiasm. Dog loves his friends; he thinks they are brilliant but he also thinks that he is the best. How Dog’s friends show him how loveable he is, even if he is … Download free opening extract
3		Never Shake a Rattlesnake Michaela Morgan Rollicking rhymes combine perfectly with Nick Sharratt’s trademark witty illustrations in this thoroughly modern look at good behaviour! … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Up in the Tree Margaret Atwood This is a delightfully simple and light-hearted story told with a poetic jauntiness written and illustrated by one of the foremost literary novelists writing today. Two children love their home in a tree, they can feel the wind rushing by … Download free opening extract
2		Christian, the Hugging Lion Justin Richardson, Peter Parnell An amazing, heart-warming and true story of how a lion cub grows up as a pet and ends up returned to his real home in the wilds of Kenya. When Ace and John see Christian the lion cub in Harrods, … Download free opening extract
3		Harry and Hopper Margaret Wild Shortlisted for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2010. Harry and his dog Hopper have done everything together ever since Hopper was a jumpy little puppy. But one day the unthinkable happens and Hopper will never be there again. But Harry is … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		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
2		The Dunderheads Paul Fleischman Shortlisted for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2010. Miss Breakbone is a fearsome teacher: she shouts, she confiscates, she makes kids cry. Until the Dunderheads – an unlikely band of kids, with extraordinary hidden talents, decide to teach Miss Breakbone a … Download free opening extract
3		Christian, the Hugging Lion Justin Richardson, Peter Parnell An amazing, heart-warming and true story of how a lion cub grows up as a pet and ends up returned to his real home in the wilds of Kenya. When Ace and John see Christian the lion cub in Harrods, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		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
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		Mr Gum and the Cherry Tree Andy Stanton Hilarious, delightful and utterly, utterly absurd, prize-winning Andy Stanton’s truly revolting hero Mr Gum and the extraordinary town of Lamonic Bibber where he lives are back in this riotous new adventure brought about by a little bit of Spring … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		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
2		The Pasta Detectives Andreas Steinhofel This is a funny and original mystery starring two unlikely boy detectives, the mildly autistic Rico and the brainy but anxiety-ridden Oscar.  The story of The Pasta Detectives explores the friendships between these two very disparate characters but who together … 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		The Graveyard Book (illustrated by Chris Riddell) Neil Gaiman Shortlisted for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2010. Spooks galore in this brilliant and fantastic story of life in the graveyard. When Baby Bod escapes a murderer intent on killing his whole family, he is taken in by the graveyard ghosts. … Download free opening extract
3		The Knife of Never Letting Go: Book 1 in the Chaos Walking Trilogy Patrick Ness Shortlisted for the 2009 Branford Boase Best Debut Novel Award 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 … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Monsters of Men: Book 3 in the Chaos Walking Trilogy Patrick Ness This is a spine-tingling, page turning read. Heaped with well-deserved awards, the Chaos Walking Trilogy comes to a brilliant conclusion in Monsters of Men. Set in a dystopian future in a world where all thoughts can be heard, Todd and Viola … Download free opening extract
2		Viola in Reel Life Adriana Trigiani Full of a zest, this captures how a newcomer to Prefect Academy learns to enjoy the boarding school environment she thought she would hate. Viola provides a hugely entertaining account of Perfect and the people in it initially using her … Download free opening extract
3		If I Stay Gayle Forman Gripping, heartrending and ultimately life-affirming, If I Stay is a haunting novel about the power of love and loss – a story that won’t quite let you go. It will make you appreciate all that you have, all that you’ve … Download free opening extract