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

Lovereading4kids.co.uk Top 10

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 Great Galloon Tom Banks A Piece of Passion from the Editor, Sara O’Connor – The Great Galloon immediately made me want to grab a mop and fight alongside the comical crew. With plenty of adventures and “goodnight points” instead of chapters, I defy you … Download free opening extract
4		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
5		Granny Samurai, the Monkey King and I John Chambers January 2013 Debut of the Month There are loads of great laughs in this wild story of a granny with a difference. Samuel Johnson who ‘scribes’ this story has the misfortune to turn up at a new school and find himself … Download free opening extract
6		Far Rockaway Charlie Fletcher January 2013 Book of the Month   Best-selling Charlie Fletcher cleverly intertwines stories within stories in this dramatic and ambitious adventure. When Cat is slammed into by a fire truck crossing a road in central Manhattan, the blow to her … Download free opening extract
7		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
8		The Spin Rebecca Lisle January 2013 Book of the Month   A magical and action packed adventure in a cleverly created other world packed full of delightful characters. Orphaned Stormy works at the lowest level in the castle kitchens but he has dreams and aspirations … Download free opening extract
9		Fox Friend Michael Morpurgo Interest Age 7-12 Reading Age 7+  From the multi award-winning and bestselling author, a beautifully re-packaged, 4u2read version, of this moving story of a girl and an injured fox cub. … Download free opening extract
10		Night of the Howling Hound Sam Hay Undead Pets is a terrific series, particularly for boys and reluctant readers.  This is the third one.  Joe is just an ordinary boy until he makes a wish on a spooky Egyptian amulet… Now he’s the Protector of undead pets… … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Cuddle Bear Claire Freedman Meet Cuddle Bear – the unforgettable hero with hugs for everyone! A perfect book for parent and child to share time and time again. Click here to visit the author page for Claire Freedman, where you can read a Q&A including how … Download free opening extract
2		A Squash and a Squeeze Julia Donaldson Celebrating twenty years of a classic picture book pairing! Julia Donaldson writes…Although the book you have in your hands is officially a 20th birthday edition, A Squash and a Squeeze is actually nearer forty! It started its life as a song … Download free opening extract
3		One Gorilla A Counting Book Anthony Browne Award-winning former Children’s Laureate Anthony Browne takes readers on a counting journey from 1 Gorilla through other monkeys such as chimpanzees, mandrills and baboons before reaching 10 Lemurs. From them, he leaps to himself and all humans showing how all … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		The Shape of My Heart Mark Sperring January 2013 Picture Book of the Month Bright images offer loads to look at for young readers to think about the shape of all the things around them in the world. Birds have a shape and so does food. But what … Download free opening extract
2		My Monster Mayhem Anita Pouroulis A little girl keeps getting into trouble with her Mum, but it’s not her that leaves the lights on in every room or clothes all over the floor.  She’s doing battle with a mob of monsters who just want to … Download free opening extract
3		Mum’s Cronky Car Anita Pouroulis Unloved and unappreciated, Mum’s Cronky Car is on the verge of being scrapped and abandoned.Then one morning, on the school-run, the Cronk is living up to his name being overtaken by a disability scooter! Then out of nowhere he does … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		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
2		Oh Dear, Geoffrey! Gemma O’Neill January 2013 Debut of the Month This beautifully written and wonderfully illustrated book is a tale about a rather tall and clumsy giraffe who struggles to make friends but eventually he finds he has plenty because he can show them something … Download free opening extract
3		Horrid Henry’s Fearsome Four Francesca Simon Four best-selling Horrid Henry stories, each richly illustrated by Tony Ross, are gathered up in this bumper volume making a perfect gift book. The chaos of Horrid Henry’s birthday party; the shock of Horrid Henry’s underpants – as supplied by … 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		Fox Friend Michael Morpurgo Interest Age 7-12 Reading Age 7+  From the multi award-winning and bestselling author, a beautifully re-packaged, 4u2read version, of this moving story of a girl and an injured fox cub. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The Spin Rebecca Lisle January 2013 Book of the Month   A magical and action packed adventure in a cleverly created other world packed full of delightful characters. Orphaned Stormy works at the lowest level in the castle kitchens but he has dreams and aspirations … Download free opening extract
2		Granny Samurai, the Monkey King and I John Chambers January 2013 Debut of the Month There are loads of great laughs in this wild story of a granny with a difference. Samuel Johnson who ‘scribes’ this story has the misfortune to turn up at a new school and find himself … Download free opening extract
3		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

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Far Rockaway Charlie Fletcher January 2013 Book of the Month   Best-selling Charlie Fletcher cleverly intertwines stories within stories in this dramatic and ambitious adventure. When Cat is slammed into by a fire truck crossing a road in central Manhattan, the blow to her … Download free opening extract
2		Shiverton Hall Emerald Fennell January 2013 Debut of the Month A boarding school story with a difference. With its imposing entrance and spooky appearance Shiverton Hall more than lives up to its chilling name. When Arthur Bannister arrives on a scholarship he finds himself dealing … Download free opening extract
3		Unleashed Mind Over Matter Ali Sparkes January 2013 Book of the Month Prize winning Ali Sparkes has created a fresh new action-packed series about a group of children with special powers. This is the second in the series. Each novel is brimming with adventure and danger; the … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Ketchup Clouds Annabel Pitcher January 2013 Book of the Month Award-winning author Annabel Pitcher’s new teen novel is a taut and dramatic adventure with a deep yearning at its heart. Ketchup Clouds vividly captures the terrifying roller coaster of emotion that envelopes Zoe when she … Download free opening extract
2		Burning Bright Sophie Mckenzie January 2013 Book of the Month In this high-octane sequel to Falling Fast, River, still passionately in love with Flynn,  finds herself more and more confused and anxious by his violent behaviour. Time and again she forgives him knowing some of … Download free opening extract
3		The Fault in Our Stars John Green January 2013 Book of the Month    Deservedly No 1 on the New York Times best seller list, this heart-catching novel is fuelled by the rawest emotions deftly handled but never falsely diluted. The role a book plays in their lives … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		A Bit Lost Chris Haughton Winner of the top children’s book award in Ireland in 2011 – the Bisto Award. 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 … Download free opening extract
2		Tabby McTat Picturebook and CD Julia Donaldson The best-selling author and illustrator team of the Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have created a heart-warming story about loyalty and friendship. When Tabby McTat the busker’s cat gets separated from the busker he begins a new life on … Download free opening extract
3		Gilbert the Great (Board Book) Jane Clarke Award-winning illustrator Charles Fuge’s Gilbert is a charming picture book character – despite being a great white shark! The story of his touching friendship with Raymond the Remora is delightfully retold in this handsome board book version. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		The Rhyming Rabbit Julia Donaldson Award winning Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson has created a delightfully entertaining picture book that celebrates poems of all kinds. All the rabbits are sick of hearing the rhyming rabbit’s poems for every occasion. Forlornly, the rabbit sets off to find … Download free opening extract
2		The Boy Who Hated Toothbrushes Zehra Hicks Billy hates toothbrushes. He’s tried all kinds but refuses to use any of them! But then he loses a tooth and the tooth fairy leaves him something to make sure the rest of his teeth are never so dirty! How … Download free opening extract
3		Two Monkeys (World of Happy) Giles Andreae A gorgeous story that shows the importance of true friendship between two monkeys.  Will the monkey prince forget his servant friend in the end or not?Stylish and affordable books for children and parents alike. One of an initial series of 13 … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Cave Baby Julia Donaldson Best-selling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has teamed up with prize-winning illustrator Emily Gravett to create a wonderfully witty story about a cheeky little Cave Baby. When the Cave Baby scribbles on the walls of his cave he is … Download free opening extract
2		Dirty Bertie : Ouch! Alan McDonald Dirty Bertie – the boy with nose-pickingly disgusting habits – is back for another helping in A&E after an accident with a door, forgets his swimming trunks on a visit to Splash City, and proves that Know-All Nick doesn’t actually … Download free opening extract
3		Conker Michael Morpurgo Prize-winning Michael Morpurgo packs in a range of big emotions in this beautifully written short novel for newly fluent readers and reissued for a new generation of children. Helped by his granny, Nick learns to see off the nasty bully … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		An Elephant in the Garden Michael Morpurgo Once again the former Children’s Laureate, Michael Morpurgo, weaves an intensely moving story about an extraordinary animal caught up in a very human war.  It’s World War Two in Germany, the animals in Dresden are to be killed because of … Download free opening extract
2		Little Manfred Michael Morpurgo 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 and her little brother Charlie … Download free opening extract
3		Penny Dreadful is a Magnet for Disaster Joanna Nadin A bundle of awfulness! Penny Dreadful (not her real name) has an unfortunate habit of creating mayhem wherever she goes and whatever she does! Penny has some really brilliant ideas. The only trouble is, they often seem to go horribly … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Too Much Trouble Tom Avery Winner of the 2010 Frances Lincoln / Seven Stories Diverse Voices Children’s Book Award This prize-winning story will grab readers’ attention from the opening moments and hold them spell-bound from then on. When Emmanuel and Prince are sent to England to … Download free opening extract
2		Journey to the River Sea 10th Anniversary Edition Eva Ibbotson Special 10th Anniversary Edition Chosen by Anne Fine as one of her favourite reads.  A charming and magical adventure story that is full of wisdom, warmth and understanding. Orphaned Maia is sent off to stay with her relatives far, far away … Download free opening extract
3		Billionaire Boy David Walliams Shortlisted for the prestigious Sheffield Children’s Book Award 2011 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 … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Tall Story Candy Gourlay Shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award 2011. Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Award 2011: Favourite Story. This is a debut novel packed with warmth, humour and quirkiness that will have you in fits of laughter one minute and … Download free opening extract
2		Unhooking the Moon Gregory Hughes Shortlisted for the prestigious Branford Boase Award 2011. 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 … Download free opening extract
3		Six Days Philip Webb Enter a fantastic contest to appear in Philip Webb’s next book.  Each copy of Six Days is printed with its own unique 5-digit code.  Children can enter their unique code and email address and smartphone users can go direct to … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Life An Exploded Diagram Mal Peet This is a brilliant coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the Cold War and events leading up to the Cuban Missile Crisis.  The story is told in flashback by Clem when he is living and working in New York … Download free opening extract
2		Double or Quits Rachel Riley’s Year of (almost) Taking Control Joanna Nadin A fantastically fat and sparkly bind-up of two riotous Rachel Riley books … Back to Life and The Facts of Life. … Download free opening extract
3		When I Was Joe Keren David Shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award 2011. Highly Commended for the Teenage Book Prize 2010. An edgy and contemporary thriller about the life changing dangers of knife crime – and that’s just for the witness. When Ty tells the police … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Tabby McTat Picturebook and CD Julia Donaldson The best-selling author and illustrator team of the Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have created a heart-warming story about loyalty and friendship. When Tabby McTat the busker’s cat gets separated from the busker he begins a new life on … Download free opening extract
2		My First Gruffalo: Hello Gruffalo! Buggy Book Julia Donaldson A first introduction to the best-selling Gruffalo for little hands.  All the deliciously scary features of The Gruffalo are laid bare before the happy ending of his very unfriendly self is revealed. An ideal addition to any buggy. … Download free opening extract
3		I Want a Party! Tony Ross Everybody’s favourite Little Princess is back for an entertaining new adventure. Bored by her life she longs to throw a party. Luckily the staff at the palace are willing to help her and soon the games, the food, the party … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		The Rhyming Rabbit Julia Donaldson Award winning Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson has created a delightfully entertaining picture book that celebrates poems of all kinds. All the rabbits are sick of hearing the rhyming rabbit’s poems for every occasion. Forlornly, the rabbit sets off to find … Download free opening extract
2		A Bit Lost Chris Haughton Winner of the top children’s book award in Ireland in 2011 – the Bisto Award. 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 … Download free opening extract
3		The Boy Who Hated Toothbrushes Zehra Hicks Billy hates toothbrushes. He’s tried all kinds but refuses to use any of them! But then he loses a tooth and the tooth fairy leaves him something to make sure the rest of his teeth are never so dirty! How … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Cave Baby Julia Donaldson Best-selling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has teamed up with prize-winning illustrator Emily Gravett to create a wonderfully witty story about a cheeky little Cave Baby. When the Cave Baby scribbles on the walls of his cave he is … Download free opening extract
2		The Parent Swap Shop (Early Reader) Francesca Simon A brand new story perfect for early readers particularly those who are sick and tired of being told what to do!  Nag nag nag. Why can’t she have the kind of parents that let her eat sweets all day? Or … Download free opening extract
3		Dirty Bertie : Ouch! Alan McDonald Dirty Bertie – the boy with nose-pickingly disgusting habits – is back for another helping in A&E after an accident with a door, forgets his swimming trunks on a visit to Splash City, and proves that Know-All Nick doesn’t actually … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Too Much Trouble Tom Avery Winner of the 2010 Frances Lincoln / Seven Stories Diverse Voices Children’s Book Award This prize-winning story will grab readers’ attention from the opening moments and hold them spell-bound from then on. When Emmanuel and Prince are sent to England to … Download free opening extract
2		An Elephant in the Garden Michael Morpurgo Once again the former Children’s Laureate, Michael Morpurgo, weaves an intensely moving story about an extraordinary animal caught up in a very human war.  It’s World War Two in Germany, the animals in Dresden are to be killed because of … Download free opening extract
3		Little Manfred Michael Morpurgo 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 and her little brother Charlie … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Penny Dreadful is a Magnet for Disaster Joanna Nadin A bundle of awfulness! Penny Dreadful (not her real name) has an unfortunate habit of creating mayhem wherever she goes and whatever she does! Penny has some really brilliant ideas. The only trouble is, they often seem to go horribly … Download free opening extract
2		Duty Calls : Dunkirk James Holland Real-life action pumps through this wholly absorbing war time adventure. James Holland’s extensive knowledge of the history of the period gives him a rare ability to bring it vividly to life in a way that is both absolutely gripping and … Download free opening extract
3		Billionaire Boy David Walliams Shortlisted for the prestigious Sheffield Children’s Book Award 2011 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 … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		A Million Angels Kate Maryon This is the third novel from Kate Maryon – a sparkling new voice for tween girls.  Jemima has a wonderfully close relationship with her dad so when he’s posted off to Afghanistan how will she cope and who will look … Download free opening extract
2		Six Days Philip Webb Enter a fantastic contest to appear in Philip Webb’s next book.  Each copy of Six Days is printed with its own unique 5-digit code.  Children can enter their unique code and email address and smartphone users can go direct to … Download free opening extract
3		Young Sherlock Holmes: Black Ice Andrew Lane The world’s favourite detective was already showing signs of his future exceptional talent for investigation as a child. Ignoring the obvious when he comes across his brother holding a knife and with a dead body in front of him, the … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Life An Exploded Diagram Mal Peet This is a brilliant coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the Cold War and events leading up to the Cuban Missile Crisis.  The story is told in flashback by Clem when he is living and working in New York … Download free opening extract
2		Forgotten Cat Patrick A teen story with a difference, London Lane seems like any normal high school student except that she can’t remember the past – her brain is wiped clean at 4.33 every day – and worse, she can see what is going to … Download free opening extract
3		Starcrossed Josephine Angelini Destiny brought them together. The Gods will keep them apart. This is the book of the summer to get love-struck by! ‘a gorgeous, haunting saga that completely swept me away.  OMGods, I can’t wait to read more’ – Lauren Kate, author … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Stripy Horse, Time for Bed Jim Helmore, Karen Wall Stripy Horse is a hugely lovable animal in children’s book publishing at the moment and we’re thrilled to see the publisher has decided to create some sturdy board books for babies and toddlers featuring this character who has, until now … Download free opening extract
2		How to Catch a Star Oliver Jeffers A prize winning illustrator with a reputation for spare illustrations which pack a huge emotional punch. A little boy so loves the stars that he decides to set off and try to catch one. But catching a star is not as easy as … Download free opening extract
3		The Puffin Mother Goose Treasury Raymond Briggs The welcome return of a modern classic, this Treasury should be a gift for every newborn. Prize-winning illustrator Raymond Briggs’ wonderful illustrations capture the humour, pathos, poignancy and downright silliness of some of the best known nursery rhymes and riddles … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Zoe and Beans: Where is Binky Boo? Chloe Inkpen, Mick Inkpen Join the loveably lively Zoe and her devoted dog Beans in a world full of fun, friendship and magical adventures. It’s a case of hide and seek as Beans loses his favourite toy. … Download free opening extract
2		Why Is The Sky Blue ? Susan Varley, Sally Grindley This is our personal favourite in terms of Sally Grindley’s picture books here at Lovereading4kids.  It tells the story of rabbit and donkey.  Rabbit is very inquisitive and is always asking questions about everything! He wants to know why the … Download free opening extract
3		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

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Harry and the Dinosaurs Roar to the Rescue! Ian Whybrow Wonderfully humourous illustrations coupled with a fun storyline sees Harry and his bucketful of dinosaurs run to the rescue when he discovers someone he knows has been robbed.  Harry is an endearing character that boys and girls all love. … Download free opening extract
2		A New Room for William Sally Grindley A beautifully moving picture book that deals delicately with a marriage break up and moving house, A New Room for William is a sensitive portrayal of the thoughts and emotions of a little boy in the midst of a dramatic … Download free opening extract
3		How the World Works Christiane Dorion Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Award 2011: Best Book with Facts*. Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Award 2001: Best Book with Facts and Winner of the Best Overall Information Book in the Scholastic Education PLUS Read Me/ Best … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		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
2		Cartoon Kid Jeremy Strong Loads of laughs in this new series from best-selling author Jeremy Strong.  Casper’s new teacher says everyone in the class is a superhero and together thy can fight injustice. Casper uses his drawing talent to become the Cartoon Kid. Teaming … 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 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		Whispers in the Graveyard Theresa Breslin This is a gripping supernatural thriller and one of those rare books that makes the reader want to put life on hold for as long as it takes to finish it.  The writing is breathtakingly good and whilst tackling some … Download free opening extract
3		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

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		When You Reach Me Rebecca Stead Winner of the 2010 Newbery Medal, Shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2011, this is a brilliantly fresh and original story with a puzzle at its heart. When Miranda’s best friend Sal is punched in the stomach by another … Download free opening extract
2		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
3		Street Heroes: Runaways Joe Layburn Street Heroes: Runaways is a fast-paced thriller that deals with important issues while keeping readers gripped from start to finish. By the aclaimed author of Ghostscape and Street Heroes it is in a nutshell ‘Heroes’ for children.  The Street Heroes … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The Replacement Brenna Yovanoff Full of romance and danger, this is an arresting adventure that slips effortlessly between our world and the dark world of the paranormal. Mackie Doyle is not what he seems. Despite his apparently normal life, Mackie is a Replacement; he … Download free opening extract
2		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
3		Wereworld: Rise of the Wolf Curtis Jobling Shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2011 This is an absolutely cracking debut fantasy novel.  Every teenager should make time for it as it’s truly gripping and utterly original.  You’ll find yourself totally immersed from page one in a completely … Download free opening extract

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		Say Hello to the Baby Animals Ian Whybrow Stroke all the baby animals in the jungle in this attractive board book in which baby lion sets out to meet all the other baby animals around him. There’s a baby giraffe stretching up tall to eat the leaves at … Download free opening extract
2		Baby And Toddler Treasury A rich resource of stories, poems, action rhymes and more for all new babies and their parents, this Treasury is an excellent ‘first book’. The addition of a scrap book for recording all the babies own milestones is fun too. If … Download free opening extract
3		Little Bear’s Little Boat Eve Bunting Tender and true, this is a beautiful story about Little Bear’s loss as he grows too big for the little boat he loves. Since he can no longer fish from the boat or dream in it, he searches for another … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		The Rabbit Problem Emily Gravett An outstandingly original and entertaining book packed full of rabbitty details and a feast of novelty features that makes it all the more fun to read again and again and again. The Rabbit Problem shows what happens after Lonely sends … Download free opening extract
2		Call Me Gorgeous Giles Milton Stunning illustrations show the most arresting features of all sorts of animals – the pointy teeth of a crocodile and the long curving neck of a flamingo – all of which are fitted together to create a wonderful invented creature.  … Download free opening extract
3		Gruff the Grump Steve Smallman Kindness works like a magic charm on the grumpy old Gruff, a growly, grizzly grump of a bear. When Gruff the Grump unexpectedly does something kind and rescues a rabbit stuck in a tree, the rabbit repays him by bringing … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom Nelson Mandela, Chris Van Wyk Nelson Mandela’s inspirational life story has been adapted into a wonderfully child-friendly version. It tells of his childhood as an ordinary boy in a village and how his belief in democracy was already strongly developed while a student. Mandela’s fight … Download free opening extract
2		The Icky, Sticky Snot and Blood Book Steve Alton Disgustingly informative, this is a touchy, feely guide to some of the most disgusting things in life. Open the flap and find out about blood and bones, travel on a roller coaster ride around the fast flowing systems that control … 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 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		Tollins: Explosive Tales for Children Conn Iggulden It’s Peter Pan with attitude as Conn Iggulden, creator of the phenomenal bestseller The Dangerous Book for Boys, introduces an explosive and magical new fictional world of the Tollins – flying creatures that aren’t fairies! – all beautifully illustrated in … Download free opening extract
3		Bob and Barry’s Lunar Adventures: The Disappearing Moon Simon Bartram Exciting moon adventures for Bob, the man on the moon, and his dog Barry. Bob’s job is to look after the moon but it isn’t always easy especially when the magician Alacazamo suddenly makes it disappear! Can Bob and Barry … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Ghost Hunter: Book 6 Chronicles of Ancient Darkness Michelle Paver Dazzling entertainment, seamless storytelling, this is the stunning 6th and final episode, bringing the bestselling ‘The Chronicles of Ancient Darkness’, which began so dramatically with Wolf Brother, to a close. Now it is Torak’s last adventure; he must travel up into … Download free opening extract
2		The Boy in the Dress David Walliams Touching, funny and full of insight, this tender story tells how Dennis decides that everyone does not have to be the same. Bravely, he decides to do something completely different. Taking a risk he reinvents himself and begins to see … Download free opening extract
3		Wolven Di Toft A howlingly hairy summer adventure – Picture a boy, his eccentric grandparents and a pet dog that is a kind of special werewolf in reverse, all living on the edge of a strange and eerie wood. Now imagine that this … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Timewalker Justin Stanchfield Full of intrigue, this is a terrific time-twist adventure with a dramatic plot that keeps its tension to the end. When sleepwalking along a lonely road near the quiet town of Antler, Sean meets a strange girl who is being … Download free opening extract
2		Threads Sophia Bennett Fresh, witty and wholly contemporary, prize winning Threads won The Times/Chicken House writing competition in 2009. How three teenage friends with completely different interests – one’s into fashion, one plans to save the world and one is a budding young … Download free opening extract
3		Double Cross Malorie Blackman This thrilling new title in award winning Malorie Blackman’s cleverly observed series, which began with Noughts and Crosses, captures the drama and potential violence of growing up – especially in a world where the Noughts are willing to use violence … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Darke Academy 1: Secret Lives Gabriella Poole This is the first story in a series of three featuring supernatural spirits, with each one set in a different exotic city.  Secret Lives has a gripping unputdownable plot, a sophisticated Parisian setting and paranormal romance that will set the … Download free opening extract
2		Back to Life Joanna Nadin More hilarious exploits from the angst ridden teen diarist Rachel Riley.  Fans of Louise Rennison’s character Georgia Nicolson will love this as will all those who have enjoyed the ups and down and ups again of Rachel’s life to date. … Download free opening extract
3		Grass Cathy Macphail A thrilling, fast-paced, high octane story that is brilliantly spun out by the queen of teen thrillers Cathy Macphail as she captures how Leo gets caught up in the terrifying gang warfare that rules his town in Scotland. Leo and … 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		Charlie and Lola’s Opposites Lauren Child Favourite TV characters Charlie and Lola explore the differences between big and small, few and many, off and on and other opposites.  A bold photographic illustration on each page of this sturdy board book makes it easy to grasp the … Download free opening extract
3		Walk With Me! Stella Blackstone Open the flaps to find out how different animals get about. Who can hop? A rabbit can hop. Who can glide? A snake can glide. Each spread shows a different country and the animals in it providing a perfect background … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

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

Featured Books for 5+ readers

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

Featured Books for 7+ readers

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

Featured Books for 9+ readers

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

Featured Books for 11+ readers

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

Featured Books for 14+ readers

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

Books for Babies and Toddlers

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

Featured Books for 3+ readers

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

Featured Books for 5+ readers

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

Featured Books for 7+ readers

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

Featured Books for 9+ readers

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

Featured Books for 11+ readers

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

Featured Books for 14+ readers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A bulging basket of Books of the Month

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beat the crowds – Exclusive Pre-Publication Books

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

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

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

Darke Academy 1: Secret Lives

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

Get some rhymes in their minds

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

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

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

Book Goodies galore to win this month

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

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