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

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Pip and Posy: The Snowy Day Axel Scheffler Best-selling Axel Scheffler’s delightful characters Pip and Posy are back for a new adventure. The two friends love playing in the snow together until a difference of opinion causes them to start to quarrel. How will they get back to … Download free opening extract
2		Matilda’s Cat Emily Gravett Award-winning Emily Gravett has come up with another witty gem. Specialising in simplicity and relying on readers taking their cues from her characters, here Matilda’s cat makes it plain that she does NOT like all the things Matilda wants her … 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		Goldilocks Allan Ahlberg ‘One of Julia Eccleshare’s Stand-out Children’s Book of the Year 2012’A brilliant book which is full of original stories all of which are variations on the familiar story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Each retelling becomes more and more … 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		The Fearsome Beastie Giles Paley-Phillips April 2012 Book of the Month. Winner of The People’s Book Prize 2012, a national competition aimed at discovering new and unknown works: a truly democratic book prize decided exclusively by the public. This is a terrific little picture book that parents … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Horrid Henry’s Christmas Presents Francesca Simon Horrid Henry loves getting Christmas presents but he’s not so keen on giving them. That’s because, he hasn’t got them to give! However, Henry comes up with a very clever plan firmly based on the principle, it’s the thought that … Download free opening extract
2		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
3		The Tobermory Cat Debi Gliori Once upon a time…best-selling illustrator Debi Gliori tells a witty story about cats poking fun at fame and asking if it really has any merit.  All the towns on Mull have cats with special attributes, such as being able to … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		The Monster Snowman Gillian Cross Interest Age 8-12 Reading Age 8+  Jack and his friends build the greatest, scariest snowman in the whole world – until it comes alive! An entertaining and clever story by an award- winning author and illustator, Ross Collins. Also suitable … Download free opening extract
2		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
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		Twelve Minutes to Midnight Christopher Edge December 2012 Book of the Month. A thriller with a fast-paced cinematic style, Twelve Minutes to Midnight is an electrifying story from an exciting new author featuring a feisty 13 year old heroine. It is the first book in a must-read … Download free opening extract
2		Diary of a Wimpy Kid: the Third Wheel Jeff Kinney The best-selling Wimpy Kid charts new aspects of his life in his trademark frank and highly humorous diary. From reflecting on the time before he was born to his struggles to find a date for the Valentine Day’s Dance and … Download free opening extract
3		Dark Lord : The Teenage Years Jamie Thomson, Dirk Lloyd Winner of the Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2012 – aged seven to fourteen.  This is wonderfully original, completely mad but according to a 10 year old boy we gave it to is one of the funniest books he’s read all … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Ghost Knight Cornelia Funke November 2012 Book of the Month  A thrilling ghost story set in a boarding school situated right in the heart of Salisbury Cathedral. Eleven year old Jon Whitcroft doesn’t want to be packed off to boarding school and is sure … Download free opening extract
2		Liar and Spy Rebecca Stead One of Julia Eccleshare’s Stand-out Children’s Book of the Year 2012 Award-winning Rebecca Steed tells a wonderfully touching story with great sensitivity within an exciting and dramatic adventure. Georges (his unusual name is part of his problem) has just moved to … Download free opening extract
3		Sword of Light Katherine Roberts This cracking page-turning adventure is now available in paperback.  The future of Camelot is in the hands of Arthur’s secret daughter, Rhianna.  Utterly gripping, this is the start of a series for 10+ year olds by an award winning author.  … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Maggot Moon Sally Gardner Shortlisted for the Children’s Costa Award 2012. 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 … Download free opening extract
2		Reached Ally Condie December 2012 Book of the Month    The best-selling Matched trilogy takes off in a dangerous and shattering new direction as Cassia’s revolt and her determination to fight for what matters to her most comes to a head. Now the signs … Download free opening extract
3		Ketchup Clouds Annabel Pitcher 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 gets caught in a tragic … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Matilda’s Cat Emily Gravett Award-winning Emily Gravett has come up with another witty gem. Specialising in simplicity and relying on readers taking their cues from her characters, here Matilda’s cat makes it plain that she does NOT like all the things Matilda wants her … Download free opening extract
2		Pip and Posy: The Snowy Day Axel Scheffler Best-selling Axel Scheffler’s delightful characters Pip and Posy are back for a new adventure. The two friends love playing in the snow together until a difference of opinion causes them to start to quarrel. How will they get back to … Download free opening extract
3		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

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Arlo Needs Glasses Barney Saltzberg This inventive, interactive picture book will charm young readers and their parents with a perfect light touch and joyful spirit as the reader gets to do just what Arlo does to solve his problem of not being able to see … Download free opening extract
2		The Jolly Christmas Postman Allan Ahlberg, Janet Ahlberg First groundbreaking and now classic, this Twentieth Birthday celebratory edition of the Ahlbergs’ second interactive book about The Jolly Postman will be a treat for a new generation of families. With Christmas coming, the Jolly Postman is off on his … Download free opening extract
3		The Velveteen Rabbit Margery Williams One of the best-loved stories about what makes a child’s toy ‘real’ and how becoming real is the dearest wish of all toys in the nursery. When the handsome Velveteen Rabbit, with his spotted brown and white coat and ears … 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		Look at Me Francesca Simon Honey needs to gather all her courage to try skating on the slippery, slidy ice. All the other animals in Buffin Street get the hang of it. Can Honey? A perfect beginning read for all those who like to test … Download free opening extract
3		Wonderful Earth! Nick Butterworth Wonderful Earth is the story of the creation of this wonderful world in which we live. Terrifically interactive with pop-ups, split pages and peep holes it will give the reader aged 5 and above hours of entertainment on their own … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		The Monster Snowman Gillian Cross Jack and his friends build the greatest, scariest snowman in the whole world – until it comes alive! An entertaining and clever story by an award- winning author and illustator, Ross Collins. Also suitable for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic readers. … Download free opening extract
2		Fox Friend Michael Morpurgo 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
3		Bob and the Moon Tree Mystery Simon Bartram A must-have for all fans of Bob, the very much loved man in the moon, who is back for a brilliantly entertaining new adventure. Bob knows every inch of the moon which he looks after so carefully. Imagine his surprise … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		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
2		Alien Schoolboy’s Z-A Guide to Earthlings Ros Asquith Shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize, this hilarious series goes from strength to strength. In this forth title, The Aliens exploration of earthlings’ speech reveals the foibles of the English language – capturing the ridiculous things that are said…and revealing … Download free opening extract
3		Ghost Knight Cornelia Funke A thrilling ghost story set in a boarding school situated right in the heart of Salisbury Cathedral. Eleven year old Jon Whitcroft doesn’t want to be packed off to boarding school and is sure that he won’t like it because … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		The Great Unexpected Sharon Creech Prize-winning Sharon Creech tells a heart warming and delicate story of unexpected connections that lead to great happiness when they are unravelled. Friends Lizzie and Naomi, both of whom are orphans, meet Finn, a mysterious boy who seems to come … Download free opening extract
2		Socks Are Not Enough Mark Lowery Shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2012. A piece of Passion from the Publisher: We at Scholastic Children’s Books are very proud to be publishing Socks Are Not Enough by Mark Lowery.  It genuinely takes a lot to make me … Download free opening extract
3		Hero on a Bicycle Shirley Hughes 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 long to do something for the fight to keep Italy free. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The Cloud Hunters Alex Shearer In this thrilling and thought provoking adventure fantasy set in a world without water, the Cloud Hunters are vital for the community’s survival. Setting out on their missions, they track down the clouds and bring the water home. It’s a … Download free opening extract
2		Ketchup Clouds Annabel Pitcher 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 gets caught in a tragic … Download free opening extract
3		My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece Annabel Pitcher Winner of the 2012 Branford Boase Award for an outstanding debut novel. The Branford Boase judges said: A very accomplished piece of writing by an author with a clear talent. The descriptions of the way the father handled his daughter’s death … 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

KIDS SITE TOP 10

1		The Grunts In Trouble Philip Ardagh September 2012 Book of the Month. Meet the Grunts! Mr and Mrs, their cat Ginger Biscuit, two donkeys Clip and Clop and Sunny, a child Mr Grunt stole off a washing line as a present for Mrs Grunt. The Grunts … Download free opening extract
2		Hav3n Tom Easton A fast-paced story with a chilling edge Hav3n is an adventure set in a terrifying but credible future. When Hav3n, the deadliest virus the world has even known, is unleashed everyone except Josh, his sister Martha and seventy eight other … Download free opening extract
3		Coraline Neil Gaiman Tenth anniversary edition of Neil Gaiman’s modern classic, brilliantly illustrated by Chris Riddell, with a new foreword by the author. When Coraline’s family move into a new home, she steps through a door into another house which seems strangely familiar. … Download free opening extract
4		The Grave Robber’s Apprentice Allan Stratton This is an exhilarating, swash-buckling adventure that’s full of humour and heart and bursting with breakneck action, set in a fantastical world with haunted forests, avalanche sledding and circus bears. … Download free opening extract
5		Look into My Eyes Lauren Child Best-selling Lauren Child’s super sleuthing Ruby Redfort is a fast-talking, fast- thinking 13 year olds girl whose sharp eye for the unexpected leads her on some fantastic adventures – especially after she is recruited as a secret agency…The wise cracks … Download free opening extract
6		The Terrible Thing That Happened to Barnaby Brocket John Boyne Bestselling John Boyne, author of The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, has created an inventive adventure about a very unusual boy. Barnaby Brocket’s parents are so normal that they are positively dull but, from the moment of his birth, Barnaby … Download free opening extract
7		My Hamster is a Genius Dave Lowe When Benjamin Jinks is given a hamster he isn’t best pleased, until he realises his Stinky the hamster is a genius! A hilarious tale of one boy and his hamster and the mischief they create.  New talent Dave Lowe’s first … Download free opening extract
8		Matilda’s Cat Emily Gravett Award-winning Emily Gravett has come up with another witty gem. Specialising in simplicity and relying on readers taking their cues from her characters, here Matilda’s cat makes it plain that she does NOT like all the things Matilda wants her … Download free opening extract
9		How We Make Stuff Christiane Dorian Do you ever wonder where your clothes come from? Or how we make chocolate? This interactive guide is filled with pop ups, pull-tabs and booklets to explain exactly how we make stuff! This is the third title in the award-winning How … Download free opening extract
10		Four Children and It Jacqueline Wilson The new bestseller from Jacqueline Wilson, creator of Tracy Beaker , Hetty Feather and The Illustrated Mum , is a funny, moving and heartwarming story of four children who discover a way to make wishes come true. Echoing the classic … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Matilda’s Cat Emily Gravett Award-winning Emily Gravett has come up with another witty gem. Specialising in simplicity and relying on readers taking their cues from her characters, here Matilda’s cat makes it plain that she does NOT like all the things Matilda wants her … Download free opening extract
2		I Spy Under the Sea–. Edward Gibbs Edward Gibbs Look through the spy holes and count the sea creatures in this underwater take on the classic game. … Download free opening extract
3		I Spy on the Farm Edward Gibbs Learn as you play, explore letter sounds, colours and animal noises as you play I spy on the farm. This is the third book in the series, so there’s even more to spy in I Spy With My Little Eye … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		The Great Snortle Hunt Claire Freedman A fabulous new picture book from the bestselling author of Aliens Love Underpants. A read-along rhyming text that will capture children’s imaginations. … Download free opening extract
2		How to Hide a Lion Helen Stephens This is one of the loveliest picture books of the year. A wonderful warm-hearted story of friendship with plenty of humour thrown in. And from Axel Scheffler, illustrator of The Gruffalo – ‘Funny and warm-hearted.  I loved reading this with my … Download free opening extract
3		The Last Tiger Rebecca Elliott Can the Last Tiger and his friend Luka save their ruined world and build a new one? Together, through their friendship, Luka and the Tiger show new ways of thinking that bring hope to a world that has destroyed nature. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		My Hamster is a Genius Dave Lowe When Benjamin Jinks is given a hamster he isn’t best pleased, until he realises his Stinky the hamster is a genius! A hilarious tale of one boy and his hamster and the mischief they create.  New talent Dave Lowe’s first … Download free opening extract
2		The Day I Swapped My Dad For Two Goldfish Paperback and CD Audio Neil Gaiman A World Book Day ‘Recommended Read’ for 2011 Visually dramatic, this is a hugely entertaining adventure perfectly tinged with an alarming subtext.  Desperate to have his friend’s two goldfish, a boy swaps his father for them – despite the warning from … Download free opening extract
3		The Big Sticky Bun (Early Reader) Vivian French Three short stories will delight early readers as they capture incidents from Jason and Daisy’s childhood which will strike a familiar chord.  Jason’s good behaviour earns him the bun he wants while his attempts to get Daisy to grow by … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Precious and the Mystery of Meerkat Hill A New Case for Precious Ramotwse Alexander Mccall Smith Best-selling author Alexander McCall Smith tells a charming detective story for children as Precious, even while still a young girl, shows early signs of curiousity and a determination to find things out. When two new children arrive in school Precious … Download free opening extract
2		The Grave Robber’s Apprentice Allan Stratton This is an exhilarating, swash-buckling adventure that’s full of humour and heart and bursting with breakneck action, set in a fantastical world with haunted forests, avalanche sledding and circus bears. … Download free opening extract
3		How We Make Stuff Christiane Dorian Do you ever wonder where your clothes come from? Or how we make chocolate? This interactive guide is filled with pop ups, pull-tabs and booklets to explain exactly how we make stuff! This is the third title in the award-winning How … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Coraline Neil Gaiman Tenth anniversary edition of Neil Gaiman’s modern classic, brilliantly illustrated by Chris Riddell, with a new foreword by the author. When Coraline’s family move into a new home, she steps through a door into another house which seems strangely familiar. … Download free opening extract
2		Shrunk! F. R. Hitchcock … Download free opening extract
3		The Terrible Thing That Happened to Barnaby Brocket John Boyne Bestselling John Boyne, author of The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, has created an inventive adventure about a very unusual boy. Barnaby Brocket’s parents are so normal that they are positively dull but, from the moment of his birth, Barnaby … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Look into My Eyes Lauren Child Best-selling Lauren Child’s super sleuthing Ruby Redfort is a fast-talking, fast- thinking 13 year olds girl whose sharp eye for the unexpected leads her on some fantastic adventures – especially after she is recruited as a secret agency…The wise cracks … Download free opening extract
2		Hav3n Tom Easton A fast-paced story with a chilling edge Hav3n is an adventure set in a terrifying but credible future. When Hav3n, the deadliest virus the world has even known, is unleashed everyone except Josh, his sister Martha and seventy eight other … Download free opening extract
3		Unfed Kirsty McKay A message from the Publisher, Barry Cunningham: ‘No I don’t want to get back on the bus. Please don’t make me.  Kirsty, do I have to? You’re sure those zombies are safe this time? You’re not? Then don’t leave me, please. … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Throne of Glass Sarah J. Maas Sarah J Maas’s novels have been an online sensation with bloggers the world over hearing about her.  Her protagonist is 18 year old Celaena; beautiful but deadly and destined for greatness but only if she can free herself from the … Download free opening extract
2		The Apothecary Maile Meloy July 2012 Debut of the Month. Spies, secrets and spells lie at the heart of this thrilling mystery adventure set in the 1950s. Newly arrived in England after her parents’ hurried flight from Los Angeles, Janie finds it hard to adjust. … Download free opening extract
3		The Graveyard Book (illustrated by Chris Riddell) Neil Gaiman 11+. Winner of the Carnegie Medal in 2010, shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal in 2010, winner of Best Novel at the Hugo Awards 2009 and of the prestigious Newbery Medal. Spooks galore in this brilliant and fantastic story of life … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		The Bad-Tempered Ladybird Eric Carle A classic picture book in a robust board book format. The bad-tempered ladybird is too mean to share. Instead, it picks a fight with every creature it meets – even if it is a big as a rhinoceros! The journey, … Download free opening extract
2		The Great Sheep Shenanigans Peter Bently A catchy rhyming text propels this entertaining story of how the wily sheep manage to see off the predatory but foolish wolf. Lou Pine thinks he’s one cool and clever wolf but all his well-made plans go badly wrong – … Download free opening extract
3		Matilda’s Cat Emily Gravett Award-winning Emily Gravett has come up with another witty gem. Specialising in simplicity and relying on readers taking their cues from her characters, here Matilda’s cat makes it plain that she does NOT like all the things Matilda wants her … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		My Granny is a Pirate Val McDermid Hugely successful, internationally bestselling and multi award-winning author Val McDermid writes her first picture book for children.  This wonderfully cuddly granny started life as a cabin girl and now sails the seven seas as a redoubtable pirate seeing off her … Download free opening extract
2		Keith the Cat with the Magic Hat Sue Hendra July 2012 Book of the Month. Best-selling Sue Hendra tells how Keith the cat creates some magic of his own in this entertaining story about Keith who is suddenly able to do some clever tricks after an ice cream cone … Download free opening extract
3		Winnie the Witch: 25th Anniversary signed hardback Valerie Thomas STOP PRESS: SIGNED LIMITED EDITION HARDBACK Winnie the Witch is a modern classic in the world of picture books so why not celebrate 25 years of Winnie and her cat Wilbur with this special 25th anniversary limited edition hardback signed by … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		The Big Sticky Bun (Early Reader) Vivian French Three short stories will delight early readers as they capture incidents from Jason and Daisy’s childhood which will strike a familiar chord.  Jason’s good behaviour earns him the bun he wants while his attempts to get Daisy to grow by … Download free opening extract
2		Horrid Henry’s Sports Day (Early Reader) Francesca Simon Sports day and Horrid Henry are a deadly combination! Henry hates sports day because he always looses and Perfect Pete always wins! But this year, Henry is determined that things will be different! How Henry sabotages everything he can and … Download free opening extract
3		The BFG 30th Anniversary Edition 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 shows … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		The Best of Pippi Longstocking Astrid Lindgren Pippi Longstocking is as popular as ever, with dedicated fans all over the world. She’s funny, feisty and incredibly strong and has the most amazing adventures! Here’s a chance to read three books about Pippi in one volume – Pippi … Download free opening extract
2		Little Manfred Michael Morpurgo June 2012 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 Famous Adventures of Jack Berlie Doherty Berlie Doherty, with her fantastic flare for storytelling, puts a different slant on a familiar fairytale. With beautiful line-drawn chapterheads by illustrator Steven Wood, this quirky set of stories within a story are perfect for children reading on their own, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Elf Girl and Raven Boy : Fright Forest Marcus Sedgwick July 2012 Book of the Month.  Humour, magic and the altogether unexpected are woven together engagingly to create a delightfully original adventure. Elf Girl and Raven Boy meet by chance and soon become firm friends after Raven Boy crashes out … Download free opening extract
2		The Mystery of Wickworth Manor Elen Caldecott Two children thrown together on a residential week in Wickworth Manor find a mystery at the heart of the handsome stately home that provides a gripping diversion! Bouncy Paige and the reserved Curtis make an unlikely pair but their determination … Download free opening extract
3		Willard Price: Leopard Adventure Anthony McGowan July 2012 Book of the Month. The classic animal tales of Willard Price are given a power conservation theme and a new look in this thrilling modern adventure. Twelve year Amazon and her cousin Frazer are recruited by TRACKS, an … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Ghosting Home Julia Jones July 2012 Book of the Month. This thrilling conclusion to the Strong Winds trilogy is an action-packed adventure set in and around the east coast of England and the North Sea in which 14 year old Donny, the protagonist in each … Download free opening extract
2		Artemis Fowl and the Last Guardian : Book 8 Eoin Colfer July 2012 Book of the Month. This is bestselling master storyteller Eoin Colfer, who set readers alight with his first title about Artemis Fowl, a young criminal mastermind who was more than a bit mixed up with the fairy world. … Download free opening extract
3		A Midsummer Tights Dream Louise Rennison July 2012 Book of the Month. Best-selling Louise Rennison is as howlingly funny as ever as she sticks with a drama theme in this hilarious follow-up to Withering Tights. Tallulah Casey is back for a second summer at Dother Hall, … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The Apothecary Maile Meloy July 2012 Debut of the Month. Spies, secrets and spells lie at the heart of this thrilling mystery adventure set in the 1950s. Newly arrived in England after her parents’ hurried flight from Los Angeles, Janie finds it hard to adjust. … Download free opening extract
2		Between the Lines Jodi Picoult, Samantha Van Leer July 2012 Debut of the Month. Bestselling Jodi Picoult, co-writing with her daughter who came up with the idea, tells a brilliantly romantic story of love across a divide in this entertaining and also thought-provoking story about stories, characters and readers. … Download free opening extract
3		Sister, Missing Sophie Mckenzie Bestselling Sophie Mackenzie follows up Girl, Missing with a nail-bitingly tense and action-packed thriller as Lauren, still reeling from her own kidnapping, loses her little sister Madison in the blink of an eye on a crowded beach. Surely this can’t … Download free opening extract

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Cat on the Mat and Friends Brian Wildsmith A bumper picture book made up of four best-selling classic stories by this award winning illustrator. The simplicity of Brian Wildsmith’s illustrations and the jokes that both the pictures and the stories tell make this a delight for young readers…. … Download free opening extract
2		The Perfect Hug Joanna Walsh A gem of a book! How the panda finds the perfect hug is told in sparkling rhyming couplets which describe hugs of all sorts including ‘hugs for wrigglers and hugs for gigglers,/ Hugs that are tickly and hugs that are … Download free opening extract
3		I Like Toys (Petit Collage) Lorena Siminovich Irresistible ‘touch and feel’ books, these two chunky board books – I Like Peas and I like Toys – offer a wonderfully tactile experience to the very youngest readers while also imparting useful information. I Like Toys brings the … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Wolf Won’t Bite! Emily Gravett Award winning Emily Gravett gives the wolf a chance in this visually bold and entertaining inversion of the story of three little pigs. Three brave little pigs tease the big scary wolf making him the butt of every circus trick. … Download free opening extract
2		Lonely Beast Chris Judge How the Beast overcomes his loneliness is a touching story about friendship of all kinds. Despite his name, the Beast, and all other Beasts, are gentle creatures who love gardening and cake baking. The Beast travels across the world to … Download free opening extract
3		Zou and the Box of Kisses Michel Gay A truly special picture book.  It’s the story of Zou the Zebra as he spends his first night away from his parents. Both endearing and reassuring for both and child this is a wonderful book to read aloud.  Zou disovers … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		Little Old Ladies Franziska Kalch Just what do a group of old ladies do when they get together?  Well they have a whole load of fun, tell tales and share ideas.  Here the author and illustrator brings these exhuberant old ladies to life in this … Download free opening extract
2		My Brother Bernadette Jacqueline Wilson Fabulous reissue of an absolute gem of a book by on of the bestselling authors of all time but this is one of the very few titles by Jacqueline Wilson suitable for newly fluent readers. Still with colour illustrations on … Download free opening extract
3		How the World Works Christiane Dorion Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Award 2011: Best Book with Facts*. A fully interactive guide to different aspects of the workings of the world. The story of the water cycle pops up in the most exciting and unusual way. The … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Muncle Trogg Janet Foxley Winner of The Times/Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition 2010, Muncle Trogg is the charming upside down fairytale about a tiny giant who saves the day. It’s a debut novel and the first in a series of adventures featuring Muncle, the … Download free opening extract
2		Spider Stampede (S.W.I.T.C.H. 1) Ali Sparkes Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating … Download free opening extract
3		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

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		Little Darlings Jacqueline Wilson Jacqueline Wilson takes a look into the lives of celebrities in this touching story of two girls, two families and one father. Destiny and Sunset’s lives seem miles apart; one lives in a council flat, the other in a posh … Download free opening extract
2		The Pasta Detectives Andreas Steinhofel Shortlisted for the 2011 Marsh Award for Children’s Literature in Translation. 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 … Download free opening extract
3		Will Farts Destroy the Planet? Glenn Murphy Packed full of fascinating and vital information this is in part a story and in part a rich source of facts which, taken together, make it a brilliant introduction to how our world will be affected by climate change. How … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Twilight Robbery Frances Hardinge Award winning Frances Hardinge’s first novel Fly By Night starred Mosca Mye and Eponymous Clent. Now they are back for a thrilling new adventure in the city of Toll, a magical place which no one can enter or leave without … Download free opening extract
2		Buried Thunder Tim Bowler A tense and haunting thriller in which the power of the forest looks set to destroy all around it. Drawn to the forest around the house, Maya witnesses strange and unnatural events. Even when in the safety of her new … 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		I am Number Four film tie-in edition Pittacus Lore Read the book before seeing the film. John Smith is not your average teenager. He regularly moves from small town to small town. He changes his name and identity. He does not put down roots. He cannot tell anyone who … Download free opening extract
2		Dancing Jax Robin Jarvis There’s a dark power lurking in the empty house set down a long, lonely track. When a group of teenagers break in, they find a box of children’s books. Not any old books. There is something special about one book. … Download free opening extract
3		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

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		Alison Jay’s My First Board Books Slipcase Alison Jay Four stunning board books introduce the alphabet, numbers, nursery rhymes and fairy stories to the very youngest readers.  The books are very robust and are presented in an equally robust slip case for the perfect gift for even the smallest … Download free opening extract
3		My Circus Xavier Deneux Full of stylish images, this is a chunky board book from the author of My Animals with cunning holes and cutaways that reveal the different and lively characters that perform at the circus. A clown, magician, jugglers and a tightrope … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Wolf Won’t Bite! Emily Gravett Award winning Emily Gravett gives the wolf a chance in this visually bold and entertaining inversion of the story of three little pigs. Three brave little pigs tease the big scary wolf making him the butt of every circus trick. … Download free opening extract
2		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
3		Norman the Slug with a Silly Shell Sue Hendra Norman the slug longs to be a snail. If only he had a shell! What Norman wishes for, he gets, but it soon turns out that a shell isn’t such a good thing after all. Can Norman save himself and … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 5+ readers

1		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
2		Horrid Henry’s Thank You Letter (Early Reader) Francesca Simon Great story coupled with Tony Ross’ trademark illustrations in full colour on every page make this the perfect book to get both boys and girls enjoying the reading experience both on their own and with a member of the family.  … Download free opening extract
3		How the Weather Works Christiane Dorion When will it next snow? This hands-on guide with opening flaps and pop-ups gives masses of information about how different weather conditions come about. Where does rain come from? Why does the wind blow? What is a climate?  Answers to … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 7+ readers

1		Letters to Anyone and Everyone Toon Tellegen Winner of the 2011 Marsh Award for Children’s Literature in Translation [translated by Martin Cleaver]. Discover an extraordinary treasury of letters in this wonderful collection of short stories from Toon Tellegen and beautifully illustrated with Jessica Ahlberg’s delicate touch.  Whether it’s … 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		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

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		The Pasta Detectives Andreas Steinhofel Shortlisted for the 2011 Marsh Award for Children’s Literature in Translation. 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 … Download free opening extract
2		The Raven Mysteries 2: Ghosts and Gadgets Marcus Sedgwick There is hilarious fun to be had in these mystery stories about the original, not to say odd, family who live in Otherhand Castle. Told by Edgar the Raven whose views are sharp even if his perspective is unusual, the … Download free opening extract
3		There’s a Hamster in My Pocket Franzeska G. Ewart A warm-hearted family story in which problems are resolved and Yosser and her best friend Kylie together with Kylie’s pet hamsters must get to the bottom of someone’s strange behaviour and solve the mystery of the locked wooden box.  A … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		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
2		Lily Alone Jacqueline Wilson Published in Feb 2011.  You can pre-order this title in January. Jacqueline Wilson’s storytelling powers are shown at their absolute best yet again in this brilliantly readable story in which Lily must contend with 3 younger siblings while her mother is … Download free opening extract
3		David’s Story Stig Dalager Shortlisted for the 2011 Marsh Award for Children’s Literature in Translation. This is a harrowing account of a boy who finds himself alone in Poland, his parents having been taken away by the Nazis in WW2.  The story which is shocking … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		Dancing Jax Robin Jarvis There’s a dark power lurking in the empty house set down a long, lonely track. When a group of teenagers break in, they find a box of children’s books. Not any old books. There is something special about one book. … Download free opening extract
2		Mice Gordon Reece A Piece of Passion from the Publisher of Mice, Maria Rejt:”Mice is not a thriller that conforms particularly to what a bestselling thriller purports to be these days – there are no serial killers, no high-octane car chases, no baroque … 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		Cave Baby Julia Donaldson Best-selling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has teamed up with prize-winning illustrator Emily Gravett to create a wonderfully witty story about a cheeky little Cave Baby. When the Cave Baby scribbles on the walls of his cave he is … Download free opening extract
2		Guess Who Says Moo? My Little Book of Riddles Leonie Shearing This perfect introduction to farm animals combines some absolutely charming illustrations with the ever-popular flip-the-flaps, creating a fun guessing game for the very young. Farm and farm animal words are introduced in a really fun way. … Download free opening extract
3		Dogs Emily Gravett Shortlisted for the Independent Booksellers’ Book Prize 2010. Prize-winning illustrator Emily Gravett delights with another wonderful new book. Apparently a celebration of dogs of all kind, this is also a book with a witty twist at the end. Gorgeous pictures of … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

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

Featured Books for 5+ readers

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

Featured Books for 7+ readers

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

Featured Books for 9+ readers

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

Featured Books for 11+ readers

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

Featured Books for 14+ readers

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

Books for Babies and Toddlers

1		Monkey and Me (Board Book) Emily Gravett Emily Gravett was selected as one of The Big Picture campaign’s Best New Illustrators in 2008 And since her launch onto the children’s book scene she has made a considerable name for herself with children with her stunning and clever but simple picture books. … Download free opening extract
2		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
3		Orange Pear Apple Bear (Board Book) Emily Gravett With just 4 words this exceptionally talented author and illustrator has created a deliciously simple, yet wonderfully fun juxtaposition of animal and fruit as well as an all-important introduction to the ‘comma’. It’s not just a breathtakingly beautiful book but … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 3+ readers

1		Monsters of Men 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		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
3		Moon Rabbit Natalie Russell As an author/illustrator Natalie is not just an immensely talented storyteller but also her print-making skills are shown off to their absolute best in this, one of the most striking debuts seen in the world of picture books.  Fresh and … 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		Oi, Cave Boy! – Iggy the Urk Book 1 Alan Macdonald Fans of Mr Gum, Grubtown Tales, Charlie Small and Dirty bertie or indeed the Flintstones will love this new series featuring a wonderfully adventurous cave boy called Iggy. Full of humour it will entertain on every page as you discover more … Download free opening extract
3		Where Do They Go When it Rains? Gerda Muller A delightful story featuring a family day out into the countryside. On their way they pass through fields full of flowers, grasshoppers and bees. They stop at a farm, where they feed the hens, pigs and ponies. But when they … 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		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
3		Michael Foreman’s Treasure Island Robert Louis Stevenson, Michael Morpurgo Michael Foreman’s stunning illustrations brilliantly capture the fast-paced action and drama of Stevenson’s classic, of high seas adventure, mysterious maps, peg-legged pirates and fabulous buried treasure that has sparked children’s imaginations for generations.  How difficult it must have been for … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 9+ readers

1		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
2		Shine Kate Maryon Tiff’s life has been a bit of a rollercoaster, until that is her mother is sent to prison for theft. So Tiff begins a new life with some distant relatives in what she perceives to be a god-forsaken island … Download free opening extract
3		Vampireology Nick Holt Tapping into the current zeitgeist of all things vampire the subject is tackled with originality and flair. It’s a terrific book that will be pored over by younger children in the family who are too young to read the plethora of … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 11+ readers

1		Where I Belong Gillian Cross Prize-winning author Gillian Cross tells a nail biting and fascinating story that’ll make readers think hard about how the lives of individuals connect and the wide ranging impacts they can have. Told in the voices of three teenagers who become inextricably … Download free opening extract
2		Luke and Jon Robert Williams This is a wonderfully original and arresting debut novel about friendship, grief and love.  Written with great power, warmth and humour with not a word out of place you feel utterly compelled to read on.  Luke and Jon is a … Download free opening extract
3		The Island Sarah Singleton Put simply this is The Beach for teens. Three friends are on the start of their gap year in India but when one of them discovers a body of a girl he becomes the prime suspect. And, when he … Download free opening extract

Featured Books for 14+ readers

1		The Truth About Leo David Yelland 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 Leo is going to let anyone know that. … Download free opening extract
2		Inside My Head Jim Carrington A very, very pacy and unputdownable contemporary novel that will be relevant to all teenagers. With sharp teen dialogue and a keen eye for a teenager’s world this punchy novel’s themes of friendship, bullying, the importance of family life and … Download free opening extract
3		Rich and Mad William Nicholson Full of the myriad and criss-crossing emotions of adolescent love, this is a warm-hearted and finely observed view of two teenagers’ experience. Sixth-formers Maddy Fisher and Richard Ross both want to fall in love. Both want the heady experience of … Download free opening extract