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Julia Donaldson is the outrageously talented prize-winning author of some of the world's best-loved children's books, including modern classics The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child, which together have sold over 17 million copies worldwide, and the hugely successful What the Ladybird Heard adventures. Julia also writes fiction, including the Princess Mirror-Belle books illustrated by Lydia Monks, as well as poems, plays and songs – and her brilliant live shows are always in demand. She was Children’s Laureate 2011-13 and has been honoured with an MBE for Services to Literature. Julia and her husband Malcolm divide their time between West Sussex and Edinburgh. She has collaborated with artists such as Sara Ogilvie, David Roberts, and on her book Animalphabet with Sharon King-Chai.
Click here to read a Q & A with Julia.
Author photo © Steve Ullathorne
From two bestselling and awardwinning creators comes a magical, lyrical celebration of babies' first experiences. From the comfort of home to the adventure of the great outdoors, from family to first encounters with nature, Welcome to the World revels in the joy that comes with sharing this new world with children, and seeing it through their eyes. A perfect read-aloud story for sharing from Julia Donaldson and Helen Oxenbury.
Lift the flaps and join in the fun with Mole's Spectacles, a brilliant story in the bestselling Tales from Acorn Wood preschool series by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo.
Deep in a snowy wood stands a little pine tree with a special destiny: when it grows up, it's going to be the famous Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square! This is the perfect picture book to snuggle up with and share at Christmas. Gorgeous, atmospheric illustrations whisk you from frozen forests to the sparkling city square in a beautiful, moving story of festivity and hope.
Inspired by the author’s visit to a children’s hospital during which she saw first-hand the powerful positive impact visits from dogs can have on young patients, Julia Donaldson’s The Hospital Dog will put a wag in the tails of readers young and old, and ease pre-hospital anxiety. It’s a soul-warming hug of a book, with classic Donaldson rhymes, and Sara Ogilvie’s child-centred illustrations adding yet more characterful energy. Owned by Rose, a lovely lady “with rings on her fingers and specs on her nose”, Dot the dalmatian is a very special canine, for she’s the hospital dog on Wallaby Ward. The story follows Dot around her daily round of the ward, during which she allays the fears of newly arrived Bea, entertains bored teenager Gus, “calms down a doctor, cheers up a mummy” and “lets little Tyler play Tickle Dot’s Tummy.” Bouncing with Dot’s boundless love and energy, this brims with kindness and joy.
Freddie and the Fairy is a delightfully witty, rhyming tale. Freddie wants nothing more than a pet, so when the fairy Bessie-Belle offers to grant his wishes, he knows just what to ask for. But Bessie-Belle can't hear very well and Freddie tends to mumble, which means the wishes aren't turning out as planned! Whatever can they do? Luckily the Fairy Queen is on hand to help.
Soar into space with the Smeds and the Smoos in this sticker activity book based on the bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo and Stick Man.
Push, pull and slide the magical moving mechanisms in this brilliant board book to meet all your favourite characters from the bestselling picture book Room on the Broom - and bring the story to life! Wiggle the witch's broomstick to make her and her cat fly happily over forests, rivers and mountains. Push and pull the tabs to see what happens when they are joined by a dog, a bird and a frog who all want a ride and . . . SNAP! Make the broom break in two. Move the magical scene-changing mechanism to scare away the greedy dragon who's hungry for a snack, and then slide out the big tab on the last page to watch the witch and her friends fly off on their brand new truly magnificent broom - whoosh! Room on the Broom: A Push, Pull and Slide Book is the perfect introduction to the bestselling picture book Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo, and a great gift for fans of the original story.
This dramatic and touching play brings Manchester during the Second World War and its people to life, and provides a variety of opportunities for school classes to explore both historical and literacy topics in an involving and creative setting. Also includes helpful tips on staging and costume.
Soar into space with this glorious love story of alien folk, from the creators of The Gruffalo and Stick Man. The Smeds (who are red) never mix with the Smoos (who are blue). So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love, their families strongly disapprove. But peace is restored and love conquers all in this happiest of love stories. There’s even a gorgeous purple baby to celebrate! With fabulous rhymes and breathtaking illustrations, this book is literally out of this world! From the creators of The Gruffalo, Stick Man and ZOG, which have all been made into animated films shown on BBC1 Zog and the Flying Doctors animation will be shown on BBC1 December 2020.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month February 2020 | | Award-winning Axel Scheffler’s familiar illustrations are a great introduction to simple concepts for the very young. Fox, Rabbit, Bear and Pig, four friends from Acorn Wood explore Colours, Counting, Friends and Opposites in these four small scale and highly durable board books which are neatly held together in a min-library box.
There are lots of reading jokes in this book within a book, within a book: pirates and robbers settle down with their favourite stories and the Three Bears discover Goldilocks reading their favourite book (after having eaten their porridge, of course). It’s all written in bubbly rhyming verse matched with vigorous illustrations which make extensive play of the central joke.
Read with Oxford Stage 1 is for children who are ready to start learning to read. KS1 Age 3-4 | With a focus on building phonics skills, this collection includes twelve fun stories with colourful illustrations. It is ideal for children who are taking their first steps in reading. Discover what life is like being small with Bob Bug, find out if Top Cat becomes king of the garden and learn how to make tasty buns! Tips for reading together explain the sounds that each story focuses on and identify any words children may find tricky, helping you to get the most out of the collection. Former Children's Laureate and author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson, has captivated children all over the world with her lively and engaging stories. Songbirds is a phonics programme carefully created by Julia to support children who are learning to read and is used in schools to inspire a love of reading.
Former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson followed up her best-selling The Gruffalo with a story about The Gruffalo’s Child. Now celebrating it's 15th anniversary it is reissued in a special hardback. An entertaining story for the very young as the little mouse outwits the Gruffalo’s Child with a plan that is just as cunning as the original one he hatched to frighten away the Gruffalo. Axel Scheffler’s illustrations once again capture the humour of the text and the fear that lurks behind the joke. The Gruffalo's Child 15th Anniversary Edition features a wrap-around snowy wood play scene and press-out characters for an interactive reading experience, plus additional book content including material from author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler, The Gruffalo's Child Song and tips for putting on a Gruffalo's Child show!
September 2019 Book of the Month | Room on the Broom, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s story of a kind-hearted witch is now recognised as a modern classic, a book that should be in every little child’s collection. With its rhyme and repetition, jolly cast of characters and wonderfully satisfying ending, it can hardly be bettered – except that here it can, because as well as the story and the pictures and the rhyme, there are also sound buttons so that children can join in and croak with the frog, woof with the dog and ‘whoosh’ with the broom. One to share for Hallowe’en or indeed any night of the year.
September 2019 Book of the Month | This lovely book is packed with a whole host of ideas so that parents, with the help of their children, can throw a fabulous party themed around Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much loved Room on the Broom picture book. It’s all there, from invitations to party games and decorations, to tasty food – cauldron sandwiches and ice cream potion anyone? All the ideas are fun but straightforward and well-explained, while extras helpfully include photocopiable and traceable pages. Guaranteed to make the party preparations lots of fun while the two hours party time itself will fly by!
Soar into space with this glorious love story of alien folk, from the creators of The Gruffalo and Stick Man. The Smeds (who are red) never mix with the Smoos (who are blue). So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love, their families strongly disapprove. But peace is restored and love conquers all in this happiest of love stories. There's even a gorgeous purple baby to celebrate! With fabulous rhymes and breathtaking illustrations, this book is literally out of this world!
Bestselling author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Lydia Monks have teamed up for another brilliant picture book. Right in the farmyard among all the noisy animals with their MOOs! and QUACKS! and BAAs! and OINKs! lives a tiny silent ladybird. This beautiful glittery creature (little fingers will love to feel her sparkly shape) is so quiet that she hears two crafty robbers plotting to raid the farmyard. And she comes up with a very clever plan to stop them, helped by the very noisy animals all around her. A wonderful adventure with gorgeous stylised illustrations.
A brilliant board book from the creators of What the Ladybird Heard. The tiny hermit crab loves his new shell. He doesn't want to share it - not with a blobby purple anemone and a tickly bristleworm. But life in the rock pool proves tougher than Crab thinks, and soon he finds he needs his new housemates in this rollicking story of sea, shells and friendship. Join up the dots in this fun Sharing a Shell Activity Page!
Best-selling duo Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ new picture book is a charming adventure full of magic and friendship. When Josephine buys a new pair of running shoes she is told that they are magic. And it is lucky that they are! While Josephine loves the pit-a-pat sound her new shoes make as she hurries down the road from the shop she is very frightened by the Bear with a rucksack who is following her. Helped by her magic talking shoes which very splendidly adapt to any situation including climbing up a mountain and ski-ing down it, squelching through mud and swimming a river, Josephine keeps just ahead. And when the pair finally do meet up, Josephine discovers that she had never had anything to fear after all! Wonderful glittery and embossed illustrations add extra magic to the story.
Julia Donaldson, former Children’s Laureate and author of The Gruffalo tells a magical tale of a horse whose wishes come true – thanks to the magic of a unicorn. Sugarlump is a rocking horse; he’s happy when the children are at home and he can rock them back and forth on his broad back. But when the children are at school, Sugarlump is bored. If only he could out in the big wide world. Sugarlump tries his hand at being all kinds of horses – a cart horse, a race horse, a circus horse – before finding the perfect answer to the kind of horse he really wants to be.
A sticker and activity book based upon the brilliant adventure of What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday. Gloriously glittery pages, activities on every page and over 400 stickers add a sparkle to this delightful and witty story!
Two stars of the children’s literary world are at their best in this beautiful and eloquent picture book. The Go-Away Bird grumpily tells everyone to go away – we’ve all been there, little children included – but fortunately when she really needs friends at her side, they come back. The message about the importance of friendship and sharing is expertly and memorably delivered via Julia Donaldson’s lively rhyming text and Catherine Rayner’s vibrant illustrations. Eyes, ears and hearts will be captured by the story and there’s lots to discuss while reading.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month February 2019 | The best-selling author of The Gruffalo deploys a story-telling device equally full of cunning in this witty story about the way a King is tricked into doing some work. The King demands his favourite meal – fish and chips. The Cook is frightened of all things he needs to do to cook fish and chips; he’s too frightened to fish because he might get his apron wet, or dig potatoes because he hates worms or to chop up the potatoes because he might cut himself with a very sharp knife. But is that just a ruse? Soon the King is cooking his very own fish and chips – and loving every moment of it! David Robert’s blustering King and wimpy Cook are a delight.
Winner of the 2007 Prima Baby and Pregnancy Reader Awards Best Buy for Toddlers Award | “A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood. A fox saw the mouse and the mouse looked good.” So begins the story of how a clever little mouse outwits his big scary enemy. The tasty little mouse needs to make his way through the deep dark woods. How will he do it? By inventing the gruffalo, a fearsome creature with terrible claws, terrible tusks and terrible teeth in his terrible jaws. It’s a brilliant trick. The little mouse’s self-preservation is a witty scam that delights children time after time.
This absolutely stunning book turns the alphabet into a wild exploration of the animal world as readers are presented with 26 different creatures across colourful pages, all featuring pop ups or peep through cut outs to make this unforgettable. Questions to readers, as well as its ingenious layout, make it a superb interactive reading experience – ‘Who is prettier than an ant?’ asks the text: ‘A butterfly’ is the answer. ‘Who has more legs than a butterfly?’ a caterpillar, and so on. Some of the questions are delightfully quirky: ‘Who is more wobbly than an iguana?’ (Can you guess?), but each one, combined with the striking artwork will draw the reader into the wonderful world of the Animalphabet.
Book band: Lime Quizzed for Accelerated Reader Ideal for ages: 6+ | This new series from Bloomsbury Education is geared at turning children into independent readers. Not only will the books give youngsters a boost into solo reading, they’ll also make it easier and more enjoyable for the adults helping children as they come with useful tips and notes. The books are short and divided into chapters thereby breaking the story into manageable chunks. The adventures are lively and fast-moving though told via short sentences and carefully chosen vocabulary: some words are highlighted in the Tips for Grown Ups section on the inside cover, so that children can learn them and their meanings. Full colour illustrations amplify the action and make the books really attractive to look at too. Written by favourite authors, these are well worth collecting and are just the thing for children ready for reading.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2018 | Julia Donaldson and Helen Oxenbury bring the very best of their award-winning The Gruffalo and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt respectively to this glorious new picture book which will remind readers of both. When Rabbit hears a loud voice coming from right inside his burrow he is terrified. What terrible kind of creature could the Giant Jumperee who is hiding in there possibly be? Rabbit’s friends Cat, Bear and Elephant all come to help but are they brave enough or clever enough to discover just who the Giant Jumperee is?
September 2018 Book of the Month | A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2018 | Best-selling duo Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ new picture book is a charming adventure full of magic and friendship. When Josephine buys a new pair of running shoes she is told that they are magic. And it is lucky that they are! While Josephine loves the pit-a-pat sound her new shoes make as she hurries down the road from the shop she is very frightened by the Bear with a rucksack who is following her. Helped by her magic talking shoes which very splendidly adapt to any situation including climbing up a mountain and ski-ing down it, squelching through mud and swimming a river, Josephine keeps just ahead. And when the pair finally do meet up, Josephine discovers that she had never had anything to fear after all! Wonderful glittery and embossed illustrations add extra magic to the story. Julia Eccleshare's Picks for September: The Legend of Kevin: A Roly-Poly Flying Pony Adventure by Philip Reeve The Girl, the Bear and the Magic Shoes by Julia Donaldson Happy: A Children's Book of Mindfulness by Nicola Edwards Jelly Boots, Smelly Boots by Michael Rosen You've Got a Friend by Judi Curtin Tilly and the Bookwanderers (Pages & Co., Book 1) by Anna James Wish for a Witch by Kaye Umansky Poems to Live Your Life By by Chris Riddell Once Upon a Wild Wood by Chris Riddell
Special Hardback and CD Edition. Best-selling duo Julia Donaldson and Rebecca Cobb reunite in a lovely story that begins in a Year One classroom before taking us on an exciting, fantastical journey. Scenes in the classroom and at home with the children as they play with their shared Everywhere Bear are beautifully depicted in Donaldson’s nimble rhyming text and Cobb’s sketchy, lithe illustrations. Their imaginations take flight when the poor bear is lost, swept down a drain and into the sea in dramatic scenes before finally, almost miraculously, he’s reunited with Class One. In the hands of star author and illustrator, it all makes for an exceptionally satisfying adventure for young readers, with much they’ll recognise, much to make them wonder. ~ Andrea Reece Best-selling Julia Donaldson and Rebecca Cobb create some wonderful adventures for the much-loved class bear in this warm-hearted and dramatic story with a strong classroom background. One thing is for sure - the Everywhere Bear knows that his life will never be dull! He goes home with a different child every weekend and no-one knows what surprises the weekend will bring! ~ Julia Eccleshare
One fine day, in the middle of May, The ladybird went on holiday. Those two bad men, Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh, are back! They may be in the city instead of the farm, but they haven't changed their thieving ways. In fact, they're even more ambitious. They're planning to steal a monkey from the zoo and use it to pinch the Queen's crown. It's a pity for them that a certain crime-busting ladybird is holidaying in the very same city . . . and she's got a good idea that will ensure the dastardly pair won't get away with it! With a whole host of noisy zoo-animal characters to meet and even a cameo from the Queen, What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday, from stellar picture book partnership Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, is a sure-fire hit. This paperback and CD edition with glitter on every page features a fabulous reading of the story by Alexander Armstrong. Enjoy all the stories from Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks: Sharing a Shell, The Princess and the Wizard, The Rhyming Rabbit, The Singing Mermaid, Sugarlump and the Unicorn, Princess Mirror-Belle and the Dragon Pox, What the Ladybird Heard, What the Ladybird Heard Next and What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday.
The best-selling author of The Gruffalo deploys a story-telling device equally full of cunning in this witty story about the way a King is tricked into doing some work. The King demands his favourite meal – fish and chips. The Cook is frightened of all things he needs to do to cook fish and chips; he’s too frightened to fish because he might get his apron wet, or dig potatoes because he hates worms or to chop up the potatoes because he might cut himself with a very sharp knife. But is that just a ruse? Soon the King is cooking his very own fish and chips – and loving every moment of it! David Robert’s blustering King and wimpy Cook are a delight.
How I long to sail! said the tiny snail. One little snail longs to see the world and hitches a lift on the tail of an enormous whale. Together they go on an amazing journey, past icebergs and volcanoes, sharks and penguins, and the little snail feels so small in the vastness of the world. But when disaster strikes and the whale is beached in a bay, it's the tiny snail's big plan that saves the day. The Snail and the Whale is a delightful tale of adventure and friendship by the unparalleled picture-book partnership of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo. Also available in board book format with redesigned covers are The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo's Child, Room on the Broom, The Smartest Giant in Town, Monkey Puzzle, Charlie Cook's Favourite Book, and A Squash and a Squeeze. The Snail and the Whale is a delightful tale of adventure and friendship by the unparalleled picture book partnership of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo. The Snail and the Whale 15th Anniversary Edition features the classic story alongside never-before-seen drawings from Axel Scheffler's sketchbook, a letter from Julia Donaldson, and a shiny foil cover.
The ladybird said never a word.But the ladybird saw,And the ladybird heard . . .Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len are two crafty robbers with a cunning plan to steal the farmer's fine prize cow. But little do they know that the tiniest, quietest creature of all has overhead their plot, and she has a plan of her own . . . What the Ladybird Heard is a fantastically funny story from the stellar picture book partnership of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks. With brilliant rhyming verse, bright distinctive illustrations and glitter on every page, this much-loved modern classic is perfect for reading aloud. Enjoy all the stories from Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks: Sharing a Shell, The Princess and the Wizard, The Rhyming Rabbit, The Singing Mermaid, Sugarlump and the Unicorn, Princess Mirror-Belle and the Dragon Pox, What the Ladybird Heard, What the Ladybird Heard Next and What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday.
Best-selling duo Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks have gone back to the farmyard for a second adventure featuring the clever and resourceful ladybird! This time thieves Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len are out to steal the fat red hen. Luckily the little ladybird overhears them discussing their dastardly plan and comes up with a clever trick of her own! The addition of glitter makes the book fun to feel as well as a delight to listen and to follow through its glorious illustrations.
One fine day, in the middle of May,The ladybird went on holiday. Those two bad men, Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh, are back! They may be in the city instead of the farm, but they haven't changed their thieving ways. In fact, they're even more ambitious. They're planning to steal a monkey from the zoo and use it to pinch the Queen's crown. It's a pity for them that a certain crime-busting ladybird is holidaying in the very same city . . . and she's got a good idea that will ensure the dastardly pair won't get away with it! With a whole host of noisy zoo-animal characters to meet and even a cameo from the Queen, What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday, from stellar picture book partnership Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, is a sure-fire hit. Enjoy all the stories from Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks: Sharing a Shell, The Princess and the Wizard, The Rhyming Rabbit, The Singing Mermaid, Sugarlump and the Unicorn, Princess Mirror-Belle and the Dragon Pox, What the Ladybird Heard, What the Ladybird Heard Next and What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday. Click here for a What the Ladybird Heard activity sheet !
Best-selling duo Julia Donaldson and Rebecca Cobb reunite in a lovely story that begins in a Year One classroom before taking us on an exciting, fantastical journey. Scenes in the classroom and at home with the children as they play with their shared Everywhere Bear are beautifully depicted in Donaldson’s nimble rhyming text and Cobb’s sketchy, lithe illustrations. Their imaginations take flight when the poor bear is lost, swept down a drain and into the sea in dramatic scenes before finally, almost miraculously, he’s reunited with Class One. In the hands of star author and illustrator, it all makes for an exceptionally satisfying adventure for young readers, with much they’ll recognise, much to make them wonder. ~ Andrea Reece Best-selling Julia Donaldson and Rebecca Cobb create some wonderful adventures for the much-loved class bear in this warm-hearted and dramatic story with a strong classroom background. One thing is for sure - the Everywhere Bear knows that his life will never be dull! He goes home with a different child every weekend and no-one knows what surprises the weekend will bring! ~ Julia Eccleshare
A celebration of dogs and books alike, Julia Donaldson employs typically sparkling rhyme to tell the story of Peter – a very nice child though he could have been neater – and his dog, ‘known far and wide as Detective Dog Nell’. When not sniffing out Peter’s mislaid clothes and toys, Nell loves to spend time at his school listening to the children read stories to her. When disaster strikes and the books are stolen, Nell tracks down the culprit in no time then leads the thief to the library instead – a happy ending all round. A satisfying, action-filled story perfectly told, and Sara Ogilvy’s illustrations are full of character. This edition comes with an audio CD, read by actress and singer Floella Benjamin, to read along to. ~ Andrea Reece Shortlisted for the Children's category of the Books are My Bag Readers Awards 2016
Perfect for newly confident readers, these three entertaining stories about the magical Princess Mirror-Belle and her friend Ellen capture all the different kinds of excitement that happen around Christmas. When Mirror-Belle pops out of the mirror Ellen knows something very special is going to happen. Mirror-Belle is always keen on adventure. Soon she and Ellen are staring in a ballet show, joining in a fancy dress party and even trying to catch Father Christmas. Lydia Monks’s illustrations capture all the festive cheer. ~ Julia Eccleshare
A celebration of dogs and books alike, Julia Donaldson employs typically sparkling rhyme to tell the story of Peter – a very nice child though he could have been neater – and his dog, ‘known far and wide as Detective Dog Nell’. When not sniffing out Peter’s mislaid clothes and toys, Nell loves to spend time at his school listening to the children read stories to her. When disaster strikes and the books are stolen, Nell tracks down the culprit in no time then leads the thief to the library instead – a happy ending all round. A satisfying, action-filled story perfectly told, and Sara Ogilvy’s illustrations are full of character. This edition comes with an audio CD, read by actress and singer Floella Benjamin, to read along to. ~ Andrea Reece Shortlisted for the Children's category of the Books are My Bag Readers Awards 2016
Julia Donaldson was writing lively, irresistible songs for children even before she was writing her much-loved books, and 23 of those songs are collected in this lovely book. Lots of the subjects will be familiar to children – there’s a song based on The Hare and the Tortoise for example, and a number that accompany some of her best-loved books including The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and The Snail and the Whale. Illustrations throughout are by her long-time collaborator Axel Scheffler, making this wonderful to look at too. And there’s a CD of Julia performing the songs so that we can all join in. A treasury indeed that will provide hours of happy reading, listening and singing! ~ Andrea Reece
A special 10th Anniversary Edition of this modern classic. A mix up with eggs has a placid duckbill dinosaur being brought up by T-Rex’s – clearly this causes hilarious problems. With Julia Donaldson’s irresistible, rollicking rhyming text and David Roberts’ glorious illustration, this bold and brilliant picture book crackles with wit. Julia Donaldson says: If you’d like some hints on acting out the story at home or in a classroom,you could take a look at www.picturebookplays.co.uk, which is a website I created when I was the Children’s Laureate and which has lots of ideas for dramatising picture books. You can even see a video of a class performing Tyrannosaurus Drip.
Four favourite stories from Julian Donaldson and Lydia Monks are included on this cd together. Ideal listening for long car journeys! A review for What the Ladybird Heard: Bestselling author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Lydia Monks have teamed up for another brilliant picture book. Right in the farmyard among all the noisy animals with their MOOs! and QUACKS! and BAAs! and OINKs! lives a tiny silent ladybird. This beautiful glittery creature (little fingers will love to feel her sparkly shape) is so quiet that she hears two crafty robbers plotting to raid the farmyard. And she comes up with a very clever plan to stop them, helped by the very noisy animals all around her. A wonderful adventure with gorgeous stylised illustrations. ~ Julia Eccleshare The other stories are: Sharing a Shell The Rhyming Rabbit The Princess and the Wizard
In their best-loved original adventure the Owl and the Pussy-Cat danced happily on the edge of the sand after their wedding. Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson now gives them an entertaining and original new adventure which also includes characters from the original such as the Dong with the luminous nose and the Pobble who has no toes. Charlotte Voake’s illustrations capture to invention of Edward Lear’s original creation as well as Julia Donaldson’s creative contemporary additions. ~ Julia Eccleshare Shortlisted for the Specsaver's National Book Awards: Children's Book Of The Year 2014.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month July 2017 Award-winning duo Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks have created a brilliant new adventure for the clever Ladybird, star of What the Ladybird Heard. The Ladybird’s old adversaries, Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh, are planning another dastardly crime. This time they are after the Queen’s crown and to get it they plan first to steal a monkey from the zoo. Can the Ladybird, who happens to be on holiday in the same place, stop them? Clever Ladybird comes up with a brilliant plan and, helped by some very noisy Zoo animals, she once again saves the day. Gloriously glittery pages add a sparkle to this delightful and witty story. ~ Julia Eccleshare Julia Donaldson says “In the last Ladybird story, I had ruled out the thieves returning to the farm, so I needed a different setting this time around. I wrote What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday while on a book tour in South Africa and the animals I saw there gave me the idea for the new adventure. I was excited when I discovered that the Royal corgis are called Holly and Willow, as I had already written a lot of the story and needed rhymes for ‘golly’ and ‘pillow’ - it seemed meant to be!” Lydia Monks says “I was so thrilled to get to go on holiday with the little ladybird! We meet some new friends and visit some new places. A perfect holiday treat!” Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for July 2017 What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks My Evil Twin is a Supervillain by David Solomons
A thrilling corkscrew of a novel that twists and turns weaving several strands of story into one compelling narrative, and the first novel from an established and bestselling picture book author for younger readers. Orphaned after the death of her parents in an air crash, Leo runs away from the aunt and uncle who are looking after her and makes her way to Glasgow to search for her grandparents. Rescued from the street by Mary who takes her in to join her collection of strange friends cared for by the community psychiatric nurse, Leo needs all the help she can get with her search. Findlay’s in trouble too, but he’s determined to help Leo in any way that he can. But someone out there is also after Leo. Can the children outwit their pursuers if they can remember not to step on the cracks?
One of Our Books of the Year 2017 | April 2017 MEGA Book of the Month | A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month April 2017 | Julia Donaldson and Helen Oxenbury bring the very best of their award-winning The Gruffalo and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt respectively to this glorious new picture book which will remind readers of both. When Rabbit hears a loud voice coming from right inside his burrow he is terrified. What terrible kind of creature could the Giant Jumperee who is hiding in there possibly be? Rabbit’s friends Cat, Bear and Elephant all come to help but are they brave enough or clever enough to discover just who the Giant Jumperee is? ~ Julia Eccleshare Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for April 2017 The Giant Jumperee by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Grandapa Green by Lane Smith I'm Going to Eat This Ant by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros Lots: The Diversity of Life on Earth by Nicola Davies Mrs Mole, I'm Home! by Jarvis Silver by Walter de la Mare
There are lots of reading jokes in this book within a book, within a book: pirates and robbers settle down with their favourite stories and the Three Bears discover Goldilocks reading their favourite book (after having eaten their porridge, of course). It’s all written in bubbly rhyming verse matched with vigorous illustrations which make extensive play of the central joke.
“A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood. A fox saw the mouse and the mouse looked good.” So begins the story of how a clever little mouse outwits his big scary enemy. The tasty little mouse needs to make his way through the deep dark woods. How will he do it? By inventing the gruffalo, a fearsome creature with terrible claws, terrible tusks and terrible teeth in his terrible jaws. It’s a brilliant trick. The little mouse’s self-preservation is a witty scam that delights children time after time. ~ Julia Eccleshare Winner of the 2007 Prima Baby and Pregnancy Reader Awards Best Buy for Toddlers Award. For lots more information on the Gruffalo books, games and activities visit www.gruffalo.com
Former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson followed up her best-selling The Gruffalo with a story about The Gruffalo’s Child. Reissued in sturdy board back format, an entertaining story for the very young as the little mouse outwits the Gruffalo’s Child with a plan that is just as cunning as the original one he hatched to frighten away the Gruffalo. Axel Scheffler’s illustrations once again capture the humour of the text and the fear that lurks behind the joke. ~ Julia Eccleshare For lots more information on the Gruffalo books, games and activities visit www.gruffalo.com
This wonderful picture book with brilliant rhyming text coupled with stunning illustrations will have you and your toddler laughing and laughing and laughing time and time again as you read and reread it because your child wants you to reread it again. ~ Julia Eccleshare For lots more information on the Gruffalo & Friends books, games and activities visit www.gruffalo.com
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s marvellous story of the scatty witch and her animal friends deserves a place on every child’s bookshelf. Julia Donaldson based the witch on herself – apparently she’s always dropping and losing things! This story is as much of a joy today as on publication, Donaldson’s jolly rhyming text perfectly paired with Scheffler’s equally lively illustrations. ~ Andrea Reece A Note from the Author The idea for Room on the Broom came about when I started to think about witches and cats. Witches in storybooks, you see, are almost always accompanied by cats and, of course, the cats often ride with the witches on the backs of their broomsticks. What would happen, I wondered, if a witch didn’t just have a cat but lots of animals? Would they all travel with her? How would they all fit onto a broomstick? And how much weight can one broom carry? And that’s where the basic storyline came from. There wasn’t a dragon in the original story, but once the broom had broken and everyone had tumbled to the ground I created him to add some more excitement and drama. And as to the trick that the animals play on the dragon to save the witch? Well, I think I must have been inspired by the story of “The Musicians of Bremen”. “The Musicians of Bremen” is a German folktale about four old animals – a donkey, a dog, a cat and a rooster – who come across a band of robbers in a cottage in some woods. They climb on one another’s backs and make a fearful din. The robbers are convinced that there must be a terrible creature outside and run away, leaving the animals to settle in for the evening. It’s a wonderful story and I am indebted to it because, although it was unconscious at the time, I think it must have been an inspiration. The witch herself though, is definitely based on me! I am quite scatty. When I was a child I was always dropping and losing things, just like the witch in Room on the Broom. In fact, I still do. I can remember seeing the first sketches that Axel drew of the witch and asking my editor if she could be made a bit younger and less tidy, and if her nose might be a bit smaller. She looked older, wartier and much neater than I’d thought of her when I was writing the story. But now, of course, I am extremely fond of the witch and couldn’t imagine her looking any other way. ~ Julia Donaldson
Children will love this funny and big-hearted tale. An absolute must for fans of picture books by the immensely talented duo of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo.
If bestsellers were decided upon by the number of prestigious awards a book had won then this one, with echoes of Edward Lear would be the blockbuster of all time. Julia really is a past-master of rhyme whilst Axel’s illustrations complement the text quite brilliantly. For lots more information on the Gruffalo & Friends books, games and activities visit www.gruffalo.com
Julia Donaldson writes...A Squash and a Squeeze started its life as a song on BBC Children’s Television.The song was subsequently used on “Playdays” and included on a BBC album, sung by Floella Benjamin and Derek Griffiths. Unknown to me, a future editor of children’s books heard this recording when her children were small and she couldn’t get it out of her head. Thirteen years later she succeeded in tracking me down via the BBC. When she phoned to ask my permission to publish an illustrated version of my words I immediately agreed – while attempting to sound as if this sort of thing happened to me every day. I loved Axel’s pictures straight away. Axel Scheffler writes...A Squash and a Squeeze was only my second picture book. I recently learnt that before me, two other illustrators were asked to do the pictures, but perhaps they were too busy because they turned it down. If this is true, I have to be grateful to them, because this book started my long-term collaboration with Julia.
Shortlisted for the Children's category of the Books are My Bag Readers Awards 2016 A celebration of dogs and books alike, Julia Donaldson employs typically sparkling rhyme to tell the story of Peter – a very nice child though he could have been neater – and his dog, ‘known far and wide as Detective Dog Nell’. When not sniffing out Peter’s mislaid clothes and toys, Nell loves to spend time at his school listening to the children read stories to her. When disaster strikes and the books are stolen, Nell tracks down the culprit in no time then leads the thief to the library instead – a happy ending all round. A satisfying, action-filled story perfectly told, and Sara Ogilvy’s illustrations are full of character. ~ Andrea Reece
Best-selling duo Julia Donaldson and Rebecca Cobb reunite in a lovely story that begins in a Year One classroom before taking us on an exciting, fantastical journey. Scenes in the classroom and at home with the children as they play with their shared Everywhere Bear are beautifully depicted in Donaldson’s nimble rhyming text and Cobb’s sketchy, lithe illustrations. Their imaginations take flight when the poor bear is lost, swept down a drain and into the sea in dramatic scenes before finally, almost miraculously, he’s reunited with Class One. In the hands of star author and illustrator, it all makes for an exceptionally satisfying adventure for young readers, with much they’ll recognise, much to make them wonder. ~ Andrea Reece Best-selling Julia Donaldson and Rebecca Cobb create some wonderful adventures for the much-loved class bear in this warm-hearted and dramatic story with a strong classroom background. One thing is for sure - the Everywhere Bear knows that his life will never be dull! He goes home with a different child every weekend and no-one knows what surprises the weekend will bring! ~ Julia Eccleshare
Celebrate twenty-five years of this much loved classic with this special anniversary edition. Julia Donaldson writes...A Squash and a Squeeze started its life as a song on BBC Children’s Television.The song was subsequently used on “Playdays” and included on a BBC album, sung by Floella Benjamin and Derek Griffiths. Unknown to me, a future editor of children’s books heard this recording when her children were small and she couldn’t get it out of her head. Thirteen years later she succeeded in tracking me down via the BBC. When she phoned to ask my permission to publish an illustrated version of my words I immediately agreed – while attempting to sound as if this sort of thing happened to me every day. I loved Axel’s pictures straight away. Axel Scheffler writes...A Squash and a Squeeze was only my second picture book. I recently learnt that before me, two other illustrators were asked to do the pictures, but perhaps they were too busy because they turned it down. If this is true, I have to be grateful to them, because this book started my long-term collaboration with Julia.
A new, limited edition of the modern classic The Smartest Giant in Town. George wished he wasn't the scruffiest giant in town. So when he sees a new shop selling giant-sized clothes, he decides it's time for a new look: smart trousers, smart shirt, stripy tie, shiny shoes. Now he's the smartest giant in town...until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help - and his clothes! Join George on his journey in this special anniversary edition.
Julia Donaldson was writing lively, irresistible songs for children even before she was writing her much-loved books, and 23 of those songs are collected in this lovely book. Lots of the subjects will be familiar to children – there’s a song based on The Hare and the Tortoise for example, and a number that accompany some of her best-loved books including The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and The Snail and the Whale. Illustrations throughout are by her long-time collaborator Axel Scheffler, making this wonderful to look at too. And there’s a CD of Julia performing the songs so that we can all join in. A treasury indeed that will provide hours of happy reading, listening and singing! ~ Andrea Reece
Best-selling Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have paired up again for a rollickingly good picture book. Scarecrows Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay have stood next to each other in a field for some time. Now they are planning to get married and they want to have ‘the best wedding yet’. But the rascally Reginald Rake looks set to scupper their good intentions. Can Betty and Harry save the day? Funny and touching and filled with some familiar looking creatures! ~ Julia Eccleshare
A fantastic new picture book all about a football-playing spider, written by Julia Donaldson, author of The Gruffalo, with glorious full colour illustrations from the talented Sebastian Braun and a sparkling, glittery foiled cover. Spinderella the spider has a passion for football! She tries to play a match with her brothers and sisters but she doesn't know how many spiders should be on each team. Even worse, she can't count the goals! Luckily for Spinderella, her Hairy Godmother has a plan...Julia Donaldson does it again in this hugely engaging and funny story all about football, spiders and counting - what's not to love! The perfect picture book for children of all ages - boys and girls alike. Julia Donaldson is the internationally renowned author of the best-loved picture books in the world, including The Gruffalo, What the Ladybird Heard, Sugarlump and the Unicorn and Night Monkey, Day Monkey. Julia Donaldson's collaborations with Axel Scheffler have sold millions of copies, and Room on the Broom is now an Academy Award-nominated short film. Sebastian Braun studied fine and applied arts at Strasbourg University. He moved to London in 2000 and since then has been working exclusively on children's picture books, having been published by Orchard, Walker, Campbell, HarperCollins and Puffin.
Who's afraid of the Gruffalo? With this fantastic addition to the My First Gruffalo range, you can scare away Fox, scratch the Gruffalo's warty nose and tickle his prickles. Fox, Owl and Snake might be scared of him, but children will want to give the Gruffalo puppet a big cuddle by the end of this fun and interactive story from the superstar pairing, and Gruffalo creators, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. For lots more information on the Gruffalo books, games and activities visit www.gruffalo.com
Interest Age 5-8 No-one knows better than Julia Donaldson how to tell a story for young readers. There are three fairy tales in this appealing collection, each told simply but with a bounce and narrative brio that will keep the pages turning and readers eager to know what happens next. Colour illustrations by Peter Bailey catch all the atmosphere as well as the action and add to the charm. This bright lively collection is a perfect book for children just reading on their own and ready to build up reading stamina. One of Barrington Stoke’s Little Gems list, it has a dyslexia-friendly layout, typeface and paperstock too. ~ Andrea Reece About the Little Gems series: Little Gems are in a gorgeous new chunky format, with high-spec production including coloured endpapers and jacketed flaps with activities. Additional features include high quality cream paper, Barrington Stoke font and illustrations on every page. They are perfect for 5-8's. These quality stories promote good reading practice for all newly independent readers.
Julia Eccleshare's Book of the Month September 2016 Young cooks will love first to create and then to feast on delights such as Fox’s Sandwiches, Scrambled Snake and the awesome Gruffalo Cake and. The twenty four recipes are easy to follow and are brought to life by Axel Scheffler’s brilliant and familiar illustrations. Perfect for new cooks – and their parents! ~ Julia Eccleshare Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for September 2016 A Poem for Every Night of the Year compliled by Allie Esiri Gruffalo Crumble and Other Recipes by Julia Donaldson A Child of Books by Oliver Jeffers and Sam Winston Beck by Mal Peet and Meg Rosoff Tom's Midnight Garden Graphic Novel by Philippa Pearce and Edith Jinks and O'Hare Funfair Repair by Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntryre
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are at their sparkling best in this fabulously original sequel to the bestselling ZOG.
The official Gruffalo and Friends Annual 2017 is bursting with fun stories, perfect puzzles and amazing activities, featuring all your favourite characters by the incomparable pairing of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
THE SCARECROWS' WEDDING is the eagerly awaited new picture book from the creators of THE GRUFFALO and STICK MAN, now available in paperback. Written in Julia Donaldson's glorious rhyme and illustrated in glowing colour by Axel Scheffler, THE SCARECROWS' WEDDING is a fabulous love story, with drama, humour, originality - and a happy ending! Two scarecrows, Betty O'Barley and Harry O'Hay, are planning the perfect wedding. But wicked scarecrow, Reginald Rake, has other ideas and almost ruins their special day. Harry must become a hero before he and Betty can have the wedding of their dreams.
Meet the wiggliest, squiggliest superhero in the world in the funny picture book by the number one bestselling author and illustrator of The Gruffalo, Stick Man and Zog. Superworm is super-long. Superworm is super-strong. Watch him wiggle! See him squirm! Hip, hip, hooray for SUPERWORM! Super-long and super-strong, Superworm is always on hand to help animals and insects in need. From rescuing Baby Toad from a busy road or fishing Beetle out of a well - do not fear, Superworm is here! But who will come to Superworm's rescue, when he's captured by the wicked Wizard Lizard and Crow? Luckily, all of Superworm's friends have a cunning plan... Shiny foil highlights on the cover makes this a special gift for toddlers The fabulously funny bestseller from the UK's number one picture book author and illustrator Perfect read-aloud rhyming text and stunning pictures on every page with lots of details to spot Friendship, bravery, teamwork and everyday heroism are at the heart of this story From the creators of The Gruffalo, Stick Man and Zog, which have all been made into animated films
A special book and CD edition of the bestselling Charlie Cook's Favourite Book. There are lots of reading jokes in this book within a book, within a book: pirates and robbers settle down with their favourite stories and the Three Bears discover Goldilocks reading their favourite book (after having eaten their porridge, of course). It’s all written in bubbly rhyming verse matched with vigorous illustrations which make extensive play of the central joke. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Shortlisted for the Children's category of the Books are My Bag Readers Awards 2016 | June 2016 Book of the Month A celebration of dogs and books alike, Julia Donaldson employs typically sparkling rhyme to tell the story of Peter – a very nice child though he could have been neater – and his dog, ‘known far and wide as Detective Dog Nell’. When not sniffing out Peter’s mislaid clothes and toys, Nell loves to spend time at his school listening to the children read stories to her. When disaster strikes and the books are stolen, Nell tracks down the culprit in no time then leads the thief to the library instead – a happy ending all round. A satisfying, action-filled story perfectly told, and Sara Ogilvy’s illustrations are full of character. ~ Andrea Reece
Julia Donaldson and Rebecca Cobb have already created the wonderful picture book Paper Dolls, and their new board books are really very special indeed. Baby’s day is depicted over five spreads. It follows a normal routine – playing, having breakfast, going out in the pram, bath-time then bed – but baby spots a hare on the chair, a mole in the breakfast bowl, a lamb in the pram and an owl in the towel! Lift the flap and each animal is sent back home, except for the ted in the bed, invited to stay and have a cuddle. Baby’s life is beautifully described in these short lines, while Cobb’s illustrations delicately capture every action and emotion. It end with an action song for toddlers, a chance for them to pretend to be the animals, and a perfectly formed nursery rhyme. ~ Andrea Reece
Award-winning Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo, tell a romping story of Superworm, a new hero on the block. Good old Superworm! Using his special superpowers, he can rescue Beetle when she falls down the well, save a baby frog from being run over on the road, and entertain bored children by turning himself into a skipping rope. But someone evil wants to make use of those special powers…Can the other creatures rescue Superworm and take their revenge on the Wicked Lizard? A cracking storyline delivered in bouncing rhyming couplets. ~ Julia Eccleshare Winner of the 2014 Red House Children's Book Awards Best Book for Younger Children
A Picture Book for kids that love Magic. New fangled techniques can spoil a good story but here, the use of glitter on every page is nothing short of inspirational and provides that wonderful opportunity for children to linger on each spread and touch-and-feel each and every character on the page. The vibrant and magical illustrations by award-winning illustrator Lydia Monks coupled with Julia’s brilliant good versus evil storyline are guaranteed to ensure that girl’s everywhere will treasure this, almost more than anything else. Can you help Princess Eliza find her way home to the castle? Download this activity page!
There are lots of reading jokes in this book within a book, within a book: pirates and robbers settle down with their favourite stories and the Three Bears discover Goldilocks reading their favourite book (after having eaten their porridge, of course). It’s all written in bubbly rhyming verse matched with vigorous illustrations which make extensive play of the central joke. ~ Julia Eccleshare
“A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood. A fox saw the mouse and the mouse looked good.” So begins the story of how a clever little mouse outwits his big scary enemy. The tasty little mouse needs to make his way through the deep dark woods. How will he do it? By inventing the gruffalo, a fearsome creature with terrible claws, terrible tusks and terrible teeth in his terrible jaws. It’s a brilliant trick. The little mouse’s self-preservation is a witty scam that delights children time after time. ~ Julia Eccleshare Winner of the 2007 Prima Baby and Pregnancy Reader Awards Best Buy for Toddlers Award. For lots more information on the Gruffalo books, games and activities visit www.gruffalo.com
“A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood. A fox saw the mouse and the mouse looked good.”So begins the story of how a clever little mouse outwits his big scary enemy. The tasty little mouse needs to make his way through the deep dark woods. How will he do it? By inventing the gruffalo, a fearsome creature with terrible claws, terrible tusks and terrible teeth in his terrible jaws. It’s a brilliant trick. The little mouse’s self-preservation is a witty scam that delights children time after time. Winner of the 2007 Prima Baby and Pregnancy Reader Awards Best Buy for Toddlers Award. For lots more information on the Gruffalo books, games and activities visit www.gruffalo.com
Former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson followed up her best-selling The Gruffalo with a story about The Gruffalo’s Child. This special anniversary edition celebrates its 10th year of entertaining the very young with how the little mouse outwits the Gruffalo’s Child with a plan that is just as cunning as the original one he hatched to frighten away the Gruffalo. Axel Scheffler’s illustrations once again capture the humour of the text and the fear that lurks behind the joke. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s marvellous story of the scatty witch and her animal friends deserves a place on every child’s bookshelf. Julia Donaldson based the witch on herself – apparently she’s always dropping and losing things! This story is as much of a joy today as on publication, Donaldson’s jolly rhyming text perfectly paired with Scheffler’s equally lively illustrations.
If bestsellers were decided upon by the number of prestigious awards a book had won then this one, with echoes of Edward Lear would be the blockbuster of all time. Julia really is a past-master of rhyme whilst Axel’s illustrations complement the text quite brilliantly.
Julia Donaldson writes...A Squash and a Squeeze started its life as a song on BBC Children’s Television.The song was subsequently used on “Playdays” and included on a BBC album, sung by Floella Benjamin and Derek Griffiths. Unknown to me, a future editor of children’s books heard this recording when her children were small and she couldn’t get it out of her head. Thirteen years later she succeeded in tracking me down via the BBC. When she phoned to ask my permission to publish an illustrated version of my words I immediately agreed – while attempting to sound as if this sort of thing happened to me every day. I loved Axel’s pictures straight away. Axel Scheffler writes...A Squash and a Squeeze was only my second picture book. I recently learnt that before me, two other illustrators were asked to do the pictures, but perhaps they were too busy because they turned it down. If this is true, I have to be grateful to them, because this book started my long-term collaboration with Julia.
Julia Eccleshare's Pick of the Month, March 2016 Best-selling duo Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks have gone back to the farmyard for a second adventure featuring the clever and resourceful ladybird! This time thieves Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len are out to steal the fat red hen. Luckily the little ladybird overhears them discussing their dastardly plan and comes up with a clever trick of her own! The addition of glitter makes the book fun to feel as well as a delight to listen and to follow through its glorious illustrations. ~ Julia Eccleshare Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for March 2016Hour of the Bees by Lindsay EagarSpotty Lottie and Me by Richard ByrnePax by Sara PennypackerBeetle Boy by M. G. LeonardWhat the Ladybird Heard Next by Julia Donaldson
With a rhyming text by Gruffalo creator Julia Donaldson that is just made for reading (or singing) aloud, and illustrations by one of our most talented picture book artists, this superb board book has all the makings of a classic. ‘Somebody’s hiding, I wonder who?’ asks the text on each of five spreads – pull down sturdy flaps for the answer – there are five little babies peeping, waving, pointing, and an invitation to join in too: ‘Can you dance? Can you dance? Can you dance too?’ It takes extraordinary skill to create a text so short, simple and yet so effective, and Rebecca Cobb paints the babies with a delicacy that perfectly captures every move and expression. Simply wonderful. ~ Andrea Reece
If ever a picturebook was worth celebrating it is Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s marvellous story of the scatty witch and her animal friends, and this special edition, marking the book’s 15th anniversary, deserves a place on every child’s bookshelf. Extras include an author’s note from Julia Donaldson, revealing that she based the witch on herself – apparently she’s always dropping and losing things! There are early sketches from Axel Scheffler’s sketchbook too which are equally fascinating and provide a glimpse into his approach to the illustrations. And the story itself is as much of a joy today as on publication, Donaldson’s jolly rhyming text perfectly paired with Scheffler’s equally lively illustrations. ~ Andrea Reece A Note from the Author The idea for Room on the Broom came about when I started to think about witches and cats. Witches in storybooks, you see, are almost always accompanied by cats and, of course, the cats often ride with the witches on the backs of their broomsticks. What would happen, I wondered, if a witch didn’t just have a cat but lots of animals? Would they all travel with her? How would they all fit onto a broomstick? And how much weight can one broom carry? And that’s where the basic storyline came from.There wasn’t a dragon in the original story, but once the broom had broken and everyone had tumbled to the ground I created him to add some more excitement and drama. And as to the trick that the animals play on the dragon to save the witch? Well, I think I must have been inspired by the story of “The Musicians of Bremen”. “The Musicians of Bremen” is a German folktale about four old animals – a donkey, a dog, a cat and a rooster – who come across a band of robbers in a cottage in some woods. They climb on one another’s backs and make a fearful din. The robbers are convinced that there must be a terrible creature outside and run away, leaving the animals to settle in for the evening. It’s a wonderful story and I am indebted to it because, although it was unconscious at the time, I think it must have been an inspiration.The witch herself though, is definitely based on me! I am quite scatty. When I was a child I was always dropping and losing things, just like the witch in Room on the Broom. In fact, I still do. I can remember seeing the first sketches that Axel drew of the witch and asking my editor if she could be made a bit younger and less tidy, and if her nose might be a bit smaller. She looked older, wartier and much neater than I’d thought of her when I was writing the story. But now, of course, I am extremely fond of the witch and couldn’t imagine her looking any other way. ~ Julia Donaldson
Julia Donaldson, former Children’s Laureate and author of The Gruffalo tells a magical tale of a horse whose wishes come true – thanks to the magic of a unicorn. Sugarlump is a rocking horse; he’s happy when the children are at home and he can rock them back and forth on his broad back. But when the children are at school, Sugarlump is bored. If only he could out in the big wide world. Sugarlump tries his hand at being all kinds of horses – a cart horse, a race horse, a circus horse – before finding the perfect answer to the kind of horse he really wants to be. Make a Wish and Colour in your own Unicorn in this special Sugarlump and Unicorn activity page!
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 someone who can appreciate his rhyming habit. He has no luck with a worm, a mole or a centipede but luckily happens on a sheep with the same gift. Great happiness follows. Lydia Monks’ sparkling and tactile illustrations make a great accompaniment. A wonderful tale from the creators of the bestselling What the Ladybird Heard. ~ Julia Eccleshare Can you match the rhyming words on this fun activity page?
The latest in a series of attractive activity books inspired by The Gruffalo, this is packed with fun activities for young children to do this winter, at home and outdoors. Indoor activities include instructions for making a snow globe and a really cool Gruffalo snowflake for your window. I also really liked the spread on spiders, which enables children to identify eight-legged house guests! The book helps children name wildlife outside the home too, plus trees and flowers, and there are pages for their own notes and drawings. This will provide hours of fun, and the activities link into the Early Years Foundation Stage of the curriculum for reception and year 1 too. ~ Andrea Reece
One of our Books of the Year 2015 - Julia Eccleshare's Book of the Month, September 2015 Best-selling duo Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks have gone back to the farmyard for a second adventure featuring the clever and resourceful ladybird! This time thieves Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len are out to steal the fat red hen. Luckily the little ladybird overhears them discussing their dastardly plan and comes up with a clever trick of her own! The addition of glitter makes the book fun to feel as well as a delight to listen and to follow through its glorious illustrations. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Creators of The Gruffalo, bestselling author/illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have created yet another bestseller with Stick Man and now the book comes in a beautiful new gift edition complete with a snow dome. “Stick Man lives in the family tree with Stick Lady love And his children three”. But one day Stick Man is pounced on by a dog. Help! This is not what Stick Man wants….While others find many ignominious uses for Stick Man – a bat, a pen, a bow and a boomerang among others – Stick Man does all he can to find his way back home…And, happily, he does! A brilliant visual treat made all the more special in this snowy gift edition.
Creators of The Gruffalo, bestselling author/illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have created yet another bestseller with Stick Man and now the book comes in a beautiful new gift edition complete with a snow dome. “Stick Man lives in the family tree with Stick Lady love And his children three”. But one day Stick Man is pounced on by a dog. Help! This is not what Stick Man wants….While others find many ignominious uses for Stick Man – a bat, a pen, a bow and a boomerang among others – Stick Man does all he can to find his way back home…And, happily, he does! A brilliant visual treat now available as a sturdy board book with a hardback cover.
A wonderful collection of poems from the much-loved creator of The Gruffalo, all of them perfect for reading aloud. There are funny poems (lots of those as you’d expect) and nonsense rhymes as well as story poems and quieter poems to get you thinking too. Nick Sharratt has great fun with the illustrations and Vera Victoria Vines, dressed up to the nines, is a particular treat, as is the crazy, mayonnaisy mum serving up ice cream with baked beans, and golden syrup with sardines! Julia Donaldson’s delight in poetry and the sound of words comes through on every page and is utterly contagious. ~ Andrea Reece
The official Gruffalo Annual is bursting with fun stories, perfect puzzles and amazing activities, featuring all your favourite characters from the deep dark wood. With 64 pages filled with crafts, recipes, quizzes, games, drawing, writing and colouring-in, it's enough to keep Gruffalo fans busy all year round! From the award-winning duo Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, the creators of The Gruffalo.
Gruffalo Explorer: The Gruffalo Summer Nature Trail is a handily sized activity book that is suitable for even the youngest nature lovers and fans of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's much-loved character, and is full of great activities that are based around engaging with nature and the outside world. It's about stopping, seeing, listening and collecting in a way that's accessible and fun, with activities that link into the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) of the curriculum for Years 4 and 5. Look out for other seasonal Gruffalo Explorer titles! For all things Gruffalo visit www.gruffalo.com
A joyful collection of poems for young children by an author who is completely in tune with her audience! Julia Donaldson celebrates the delights of going to the park, walking the dog, pizza, riding a bike and sliding down the bannisters in poems that are just perfect for reading out loud. Nick Sharratt’s illustrations have never looked brighter or more appealing and make the poems zing off the page. Definitely one to add to the picture book shelf and to return to over and over. ~ Andrea Reece
Giggle along to these wonderful rhymes whether you’re with your toddler in the nursery or the car. Full of action and noise it’s guaranteed to get kids engaged and stimulated to love poetry.
A collection of funny and exciting Princess Mirror-Belle adventures from the much-loved author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson - perfect for newly independent readers.
Magically mischievous Mirror-Belle is back and ready to sweep Ellen off on more exciting and hilarious escapades. From the much-loved author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson - perfect for newly independent readers.
Julia Eccleshare's Pick of the Month, May 2015 | When Jackdaw tries to invite all his friends to his birthday party he can’t understand why first the octopus and then the horse, the cat and the squirrel are all touching their heads. Soon the wise owl puts him straight. Each of the animals was warning Jackdaw of a dangerous storm coming in sign language! Using his wings, Jackdaw learns sign language too and then he can talk to everyone! Written with the help of deaf children in a workshop run by The Life and Death Association, former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson has created a very special picture book for all.
Clap and dance to the beat of Julia Donaldson’s lively and simple phrases which encourage the sounding out some of the important phonological sounds underpinning an introduction to reading. Different animals play a range of instruments so ‘Bulldogs blow high and low’ while ‘Crayfish croons catchy tunes’. The brightly coloured illustrations capture the exuberance of the text.
A brilliant board book from the creators of What the Ladybird Heard. The tiny hermit crab loves his new shell. He doesn't want to share it - not with a blobby purple anemone and a tickly bristleworm. But life in the rock pool proves tougher than Crab thinks, and soon he finds he needs his new housemates in this rollicking story of sea, shells and friendship. Join up the dots in this fun Sharing a Shell Activity Page!
There's a hullabaloo at the seaside when a toddler takes his friends on a stroll to the end of the pier. Hurry scurry, flip flop, toddle waddle. With jaunty rhymes and bright, bold pictures even the youngest child will love this simple, playful story. Click here for an activity sheet related to this book !
Julia Eccleshare's Pick of the Month, May 2015 When Jackdaw tries to invite all his friends to his birthday party he can’t understand why first the octopus and then the horse, the cat and the squirrel are all touching their heads. Soon the wise owl puts him straight. Each of the animals was warning Jackdaw of a dangerous storm coming in sign language! Using his wings, Jackdaw learns sign language too and then he can talk to everyone! Written with the help of deaf children in a workshop run by The Life and Death Association, former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson has created a very special picture book for all. ~ Julia Eccleshare .................................................. Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for May 2015 - Spotty Lottie and Me by Richard Byrne Bomber by Paul Dowswell The Lie Tree by Frances Hardinge What the Jackdaw Saw by Julia Donaldson and Nick Sharratt
Best-selling author Julia Donaldson captures the magic of the mermaid’s song in this dramatic story of how a mermaid is lured from her beautiful home by the sea to the circus to sing for the crowds. How she escapes with the help of her old friends from the sea and her new friends from the circus is witty told in the Children’s Laureate’s trademark rhyming couplets. Lydia Monk’s glittery illustrations on every page add dazzle! ~ Julia Eccleshare Spot the Differences in this special Singing Mermaid Activity Page!
Winner of the 2014 Red House Children's Book Awards Best Book for Younger Children Award-winning Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo, tell a romping story of Superworm, a new hero on the block. Good old Superworm! Using his special superpowers, he can rescue Beetle when she falls down the well, save a baby frog from being run over on the road, and entertain bored children by turning himself into a skipping rope. But someone evil wants to make use of those special powers…Can the other creatures rescue Superworm and take their revenge on the Wicked Lizard? A cracking storyline delivered in bouncing rhyming couplets.
Best-selling Julia Donaldson has created a new story for the popular Princess Mirror-Belle in this gorgeously glittery book. Ellen is covered in spots. She has chicken pox and is very itchy! She’s just about to scratch the nasty tickly spot on the end of her nose when Princess Mirror-Belle pops up. Princess Mirror-Belle has a magic cure for dragon pox. But what will Mum have to say about it! Draw your own Princess selfie with this fun activity page!
Bestselling author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Lydia Monks brilliant picture book is now in jigsaw form. In the farmyard among all the noisy animals with their MOOs! and QUACKS! and BAAs! and OINKs! lives a tiny silent ladybird. This beautiful glittery creature is so quiet that she hears two crafty robbers plotting to raid the farmyard. And she comes up with a very clever plan to stop them, helped by the very noisy animals all around her. A wonderful adventure with gorgeous stylised illustrations. Click here for a What the Ladybird Heard activity sheet !
The Gruffalo leads young readers deep into the woods so that they can explore nature. There are so many things to spot! There are signs of spring in the grass and everything else that is green, in the new families of ducklings, in the colours of the spring flowers and in the special spring sounds. Over 200 reward stickers and spaces to draw observations make this an enjoyable and interactive guide which will encourage looking closely at nature.
The 10th anniversary of this gem from the prize-winning creators of The Gruffalo. There are lots of reading jokes in this book within a book, within a book: pirates and robbers settle down with their favourite stories and the Three Bears discover Goldilocks reading their favourite book (after having eaten their porridge, of course). It’s all written in bubbly rhyming verse matched with vigorous illustrations which make extensive play of the central joke.
Creators of The Gruffalo, best selling author/ illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are back with another bestseller on their hands. “Stick Man lives in the family tree/ with Stick Lady love/ And his children three”.But one day Stick Man is pounced on by a dog. Help! This is not what Stick Man wants….While others find many ignominious uses for Stick Man – a bat, a pen, a bow and a boomerang among others – Stick Man does all he can to find his way back home…And, happily, he does! A brilliant visual treat now available as a stunning gift set, containing a mini paperback of the book and a 24-piece floor puzzle.
October 2014 Book of the MonthShortlisted for the Specsaver's National Book Awards: Children's Book Of The Year. In their best-loved original adventure the Owl and the Pussy-Cat danced happily on the edge of the sand after their wedding. Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson now gives them an entertaining and original new adventure which also includes characters from the original such as the Dong with the luminous nose and the Pobble who has no toes. Charlotte Voake’s illustrations capture to invention of Edward Lear’s original creation as well as Julia Donaldson’s creative contemporary additions. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Best-selling Julia Donaldson has created a new story for the popular Princess Mirror-Belle in this gorgeously glittery book. Ellen is covered in spots. She has chicken pox and is very itchy! She’s just about to scratch the nasty tickly spot on the end of her nose when Princess Mirror-Belle pops up. Princess Mirror-Belle has a magic cure for dragon pox. But what will Mum have to say about it!
Gorgeous mini gift editions of Stick Man, Tabby McTat and The Highway Rat, presented in an irresistible slipcase. All three stories are written in Julia Donaldson's fabulous rhyme and illustrated by the inimitable Axel Scheffler, of Gruffalo fame. A Review from Julia Eccleshare for The Highway Rat - Best-selling author/ illustrator combination Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have teamed up for another great adventure. Many of the creatures that appear in The Gruffalo feature in this rollicking adventure of a greedy Highway Rat and how he is outwitted by a very clever duck. Axel Scheffler’s animals are as full of vivid expression as usual.
Best-selling Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have paired up again for a rollickingly good picture book. Scarecrows Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay have stood next to each other in a field for some time. Now they are planning to get married and they want to have ‘the best wedding yet’. But the rascally Reginald Rake looks set to scupper their good intentions. Can Betty and Harry save the day? Funny and touching and filled with some familiar looking creatures! ~ Julia Eccleshare
May 2014 Book of the Month Julia Donaldson, former Children’s Laureate and author of The Gruffalo tells a magical tale of a horse whose wishes come true – thanks to the magic of a unicorn. Sugarlump is a rocking horse; he’s happy when the children are at home and he can rock them back and forth on his broad back. But when the children are at school, Sugarlump is bored. If only he could out in the big wide world. Sugarlump tries his hand at being all kinds of horses – a cart horse, a race horse, a circus horse – before finding the perfect answer to the kind of horse he really wants to be. ~ Julia Eccleshare Make a Wish and Colour in your own Unicorn in this special Sugarlump and Unicorn activity page!
Clap and dance to the beat of Julia Donaldson’s lively and simple phrases which encourage the sounding out some of the important phonological sounds underpinning an introduction to reading. Different animals play a range of instruments so ‘Bulldogs blow high and low’ while ‘Crayfish croons catchy tunes’. The brightly coloured illustrations capture the exuberance of the text.
Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson gives an excellent simple and reassuring introduction to playgroup showing the fun it can be. Nick Sharratt’s bold illustrations capture the range of activities that goat could be enjoying with newly made friends – and how he also has his own, less group-orientated, activities. A Piece of Passion from Ruth Austin, Junior Editor, Macmillan Children’s Books I’ve always admired the liveliness of Julia and Nick’s work together and Suzanne Carnell – our publishing director and Julia’s commissioning editor – was generous enough to let me look after this book. I fell in love with the character of Goat from the moment I read Julia’s manuscript and as soon as I saw Nick’s drawings of a cheerful, cheeky little chap wearing a blue starry-patterned jumper that love was cemented. The story perfectly captures, with comforting warmth, all the highs and lows of a toddler’s day and most children will see themselves in this book and be reassured by it. The best way to describe Goat himself is ‘ebullient’, which is rather a grand adjective for such a little goat, but it’s the word I always reach for. He’s such a joyful and enthusiastic character, even though he gets into some awful pickles at playgroup (including the ultimate childhood trauma of wetting himself) whatever happens is soon made well, forgotten and by the next page Goat is sure to be smiling again. Nick has deftly filled each page with subtle and familiar details, from the covers of the story books on the classroom shelves, to the children’s paintings on the walls and photographs of each character above their coat pegs – you can almost smell the poster paint, PVA glue and construction paper of your own childhood. I hope you enjoy spending time with Goat at playgroup as much I did.
** Now available in a chunky board book format, perfect for babies and toddlers. Bestselling author/ illustrator combination Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have teamed up for another great adventure. Many of the creatures that appear in The Gruffalo feature in this rollicking rhyming adventure of a greedy Highway Rat, in the style of the famous Alfred Noyes poem, 'The Highwayman', and how he is outwitted by a very clever duck. Axel Scheffler’s animals are as full of vivid expression as usual.
In Poems to Perform, Julia Donaldson has chosen poems with performance by children in mind, and her notes and ideas on performing them are included in a special section at the end of the book. Julia's passionate belief that performance can help children enjoy reading and grow in confidence is informed by her own experience both as a child and now, working with groups of children to bring stories, poems and songs to life. The poems range from classics by Edward Lear, W H Auden and Eleanor Farjeon to contemporary work by Michael Rosen, John Agard and Clare Bevan. Illustrated throughout with exquisite, expressive lino-cuts by Clare Melinsky, this is a book for teachers, parents, children: anyone who loves great poetry.
Happy 15th Birthday to The Gruffalo, the most popular picture book of the present century! Millions of children around the world have enjoyed the joke as the Little Mouse outsmarts the ferocious but not very clever or brave Gruffalo. There’s a lot of excitement, a bit of fear and a wonderful resolution which brings with it a smile to all readers’ faces. This anniversary edition also includes memories of how the book came into being –warts and all!
Former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson followed up her best-selling The Gruffalo with a story about The Gruffalo’s Child. This special anniversary edition celebrates its 10th year of entertaining the very young with how the little mouse outwits the Gruffalo’s Child with a plan that is just as cunning as the original one he hatched to frighten away the Gruffalo. Axel Scheffler’s illustrations once again capture the humour of the text and the fear that lurks behind the joke.
Creators of The Gruffalo, bestselling author/illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have created yet another bestseller with Stick Man and now the book comes in a beautiful new gift edition complete with a snow dome. “Stick Man lives in the family tree with Stick Lady love And his children three”. But one day Stick Man is pounced on by a dog. Help! This is not what Stick Man wants….While others find many ignominious uses for Stick Man – a bat, a pen, a bow and a boomerang among others – Stick Man does all he can to find his way back home…And, happily, he does! A brilliant visual treat made all the more special in this snowy gift edition.
October 2013 Book of the Month Julia Donaldson, former Children’s Laureate and author of The Gruffalo tells a magical tale of a horse whose wishes come true – thanks to the magic of a unicorn. Sugarlump is a rocking horse; he’s happy when the children are at home and he can rock them back and forth on his broad back. But when the children are at school, Sugarlump is bored. If only he could out in the big wide world. Sugarlump tries his hand at being all kinds of horses – a cart horse, a race horse, a circus horse – before finding the perfect answer to the kind of horse he really wants to be. ~ Julia Eccleshare Make a Wish and Colour in your own Unicorn in this special Sugarlump and Unicorn activity page!
All the sounds of story can be played on the buttons attached to this version of the bestselling The Gruffalo’s Child. Readers will love being able to bring the different animals – and the weather! – to life as the Gruffalo’s Child steps out on an adventure. The perfect Christmas gift!
September 2013 Picture Book of the Month In their best-loved original adventure the Owl and the Pussy-Cat danced happily on the edge of the sand after their wedding. Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson now gives them an entertaining and original new adventure which also includes characters from the original such as the Dong with the luminous nose and the Pobble who has no toes. Charlotte Voake’s illustrations capture to invention of Edward Lear’s original creation as well as Julia Donaldson’s creative contemporary additions.
July 2013 Book of the Month Best-selling Julia Donaldson delights as always in this entertaining bedtime story. A gentle ghost tries to scare a little girl but, when he fails even to be able to wake her up, he knows he needs help! Luckily, there are lots of very noisy friends on hand!
Shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal 2014 - June 2013 Book of the Month - Shortlisted for the 2013 Scottish Children’s Book Award Best-selling Julia Donaldson’s light footed text captures the magical creation of a chain of paper dolls and all the imaginative games they can play. Dancing, flying, jumping, the five paper dolls joined together by holding hands, escape from the jaws of a crocodile, ride on a bus, lie on the rooftops to look at the stars and much, much more in the hands of the little girl who made them. When disaster strikes, the memory of their happy days remain and is handed down to another little girl many years later. Rebecca Cobb’s illustrations capture the magic perfectly. ................................ The winners of each of the categories - 3-7, 8-11 and 12-16 - of the Scottish Children’s Book Award 2013 are voted for by children and will be announced in March 2014. If you would like to register to vote, visit www.scottishbooktrust.com. You can also add a review on their site and here at Lovereading we would also be delighted to receive reviews of any of the shortlisted titles, which we will load on to the site. Just email your review through to bookreviews@lovereading.co.uk
Best-selling author/ illustrator combination Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have teamed up for another great adventure. Many of the creatures that appear in The Gruffalo feature in this rollicking adventure of a greedy Highway Rat and how he is outwitted by a very clever duck. Axel Scheffler’s animals are as full of vivid expression as usual.
This sturdy, colourful board book is the perfect way for Stick Man's youngest fans to learn their first words - with numbers, colours, animal sounds and more!
Clap and dance to the beat of Julia Donaldson’s lively and simple phrases which encourage the sounding out some of the important phonological sounds underpinning an introduction to reading. Different animals play a range of instruments so ‘Bulldogs blow high and low’ while ‘Crayfish croons catchy tunes’. The brightly coloured illustrations capture the exuberance of the text.
Award winning author/ illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler tell a rollicking story of fire breathing dragons, sword-swishing knights and a princess with a difference. Schoolboy, Zog has a lot of learning about flying, breathing fire and princesses. Being a good boy he tries his hardest to get a coveted gold star for his efforts. But not all the hard work in the world can stop things going wrong! Luckily there’s a feisty young princess on hand who knocks all the conventions for six in the nicest possible way.
Rarely do mainstream publishers feel they can justify the publication of plays so we’re particularly delighted to be able to introduce to you this lovely collection, from the queen of song and verse, perfect for the family to act out during the forthcoming cold, dark evenings of the autumn and the winter or for teachers to enjoy with their pupils in class. Most children love acting and it’s a tremendous way to improve their reading within a familiar environment and for that budding actor to show off their talent to family and friends.
Rarely do mainstream publishers feel they can justify the publication of plays so we’re particularly delighted with this new edition of Play Time, a lovely collection, from the queen of song and verse, perfect for the family to act out or for teachers to enjoy with their pupils in class. Most children love acting and it’s a tremendous way to improve their reading within a familiar environment and for that budding actor to show off their talent to family and friends.
Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson gives an excellent simple and reassuring introduction to playgroup showing the fun it can be. Nick Sharratt’s bold illustrations capture the range of activities that goat could be enjoying with newly made friends – and how he also has his own, less group-orientated, activities. A Piece of Passion from Ruth Austin, Junior Editor, Macmillan Children’s Books I’ve always admired the liveliness of Julia and Nick’s work together and Suzanne Carnell – our publishing director and Julia’s commissioning editor – was generous enough to let me look after this book. I fell in love with the character of Goat from the moment I read Julia’s manuscript and as soon as I saw Nick’s drawings of a cheerful, cheeky little chap wearing a blue starry-patterned jumper that love was cemented. The story perfectly captures, with comforting warmth, all the highs and lows of a toddler’s day and most children will see themselves in this book and be reassured by it. The best way to describe Goat himself is ‘ebullient’, which is rather a grand adjective for such a little goat, but it’s the word I always reach for. He’s such a joyful and enthusiastic character, even though he gets into some awful pickles at playgroup (including the ultimate childhood trauma of wetting himself) whatever happens is soon made well, forgotten and by the next page Goat is sure to be smiling again. Nick has deftly filled each page with subtle and familiar details, from the covers of the story books on the classroom shelves, to the children’s paintings on the walls and photographs of each character above their coat pegs – you can almost smell the poster paint, PVA glue and construction paper of your own childhood. I hope you enjoy spending time with Goat at playgroup as much I did.
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 on BBC Children’s Television.The song was subsequently used on “Playdays” and included on a BBC album, sung by Floella Benjamin and Derek Griffiths. Unknown to me, a future editor of children’s books heard this recording when her children were small and she couldn’t get it out of her head. Thirteen years later she succeeded in tracking me down via the BBC. When she phoned to ask my permission to publish an illustrated version of my words I immediately agreed – while attempting to sound as if this sort of thing happened to me every day. I loved Axel’s pictures straight away. Axel Scheffler writes...A Squash and a Squeeze was only my second picture book.I recently learnt that before me, two other illustrators were asked to do the pictures, but perhaps they were too busy because they turned it down. If this is true, I have to be grateful to them, because this book started my long-term collaboration with Julia.
Room on the Broom, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s story of a kind-hearted witch is now recognised as a modern classic, a book that should be in every little child’s collection. With its rhyme and repetition, jolly cast of characters and wonderfully satisfying ending, it can hardly be bettered – except that here it can, because as well as the story and the pictures and the rhyme, there are also sound buttons so that children can join in and croak with the frog, woof with the dog and ‘whoosh’ with the broom. One to share for Hallowe’en or indeed any night of the year.
Winner of the 2014 Red House Children's Book Awards Best Book for Younger Children - September 2012 Book of the Month. Award-winning Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo, tell a romping story of Superworm, a new hero on the block. Good old Superworm! Using his special superpowers, he can rescue Beetle when she falls down the well, save a baby frog from being run over on the road, and entertain bored children by turning himself into a skipping rope. But someone evil wants to make use of those special powers…Can the other creatures rescue Superworm and take their revenge on the Wicked Lizard? A cracking storyline delivered in bouncing rhyming couplets.
Former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson’s story is a touching adventure told in easy to read chapters. Elmo and his sister want to move to the run down house with the overgrown garden. Instead, their parents choose to buy the house next door. Luckily, Elmo and his sister can still play in the jungle as the house remains empty. But, when new owner arrives, it looks as if their fun will be over... It's beautifully packaged and illustrated by the wonderful Hannah Shaw.
Interest Age 5-8 Former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson’s story is a touching adventure told in easy to read chapters. Elmo and his sister want to move to the run down house with the overgrown garden. Instead, their parents choose to buy the house next door. Luckily, Elmo and his sister can still play in the jungle as the house remains empty. But, when new owner arrives, it looks as if their fun will be over... It's beautifully packaged and illustrated by the wonderful Hannah Shaw. ~ Julia Eccleshare About the Little Gems series: Little Gems are in a gorgeous new chunky format, with high-spec production including coloured endpapers and jacketed flaps with activities. Additional features include high quality cream paper, Barrington Stoke font and illustrations on every page. They are perfect for 5-8's. These quality stories promote good reading practice for all newly independent readers.
Interest Age 5-8 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 snake! When Doris the snake disappears and then sheds her skin, Polly has all kinds of problems on her hands. An entertaining story told in easy to read chapters but the best-selling author of The Gruffalo.
Interest Age 5-8 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 snake! When Doris the snake disappears and then sheds her skin, Polly has all kinds of problems on her hands. An entertaining story told in easy to read chapters but the best-selling author of The Gruffalo. ~ Julia Eccleshare About the Little Gems series: Little Gems are in a gorgeous new chunky format, with high-spec production including coloured endpapers and jacketed flaps with activities. Additional features include high quality cream paper, Barrington Stoke font and illustrations on every page. They are perfect for 5-8's. These quality stories promote good reading practice for all newly independent readers.
Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson leads readers on a delightful adventure as Jack and his two person crew of ‘red-cheeked Rose and Stubble-cheeked Stu’ set off to the Isle of Blowyernose in search of the fruit of the flumflum tree. Without it, granny will never be cured of her big purple spots… Jack and his crew fix a leak and see off some sharks before they find the fruit and sail home with their important prize!
The Children's Laureate and bestselling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has carefully created the Songbirds Phonics series to support parents and teachers in helping children learning to read. Julia Donaldson has captivated children all over the world with her lively and engaging stories. This series of books under the Songbirds name builds children's confidence through a clear phonics development with gradual progression to build reading confidence and success. This Stage 5 Songbirds collection contains 6 exciting phonics stories in 1! These are perfect for parents to read at home with their kids to establish a really strong love of reading and to build confidence. Julia Donaldson says: "Creating the 'Songbirds' series was an enormous challenge of my favourite kind. Almost every word in every book had to be phonically decodable, and yet I wanted to write real stories which children would enjoy reading. I was determined also that the content and illustrations should be as varied as possible, as I know how children’s tastes differ and how monotonous some reading schemes can be. So some of the stories are in prose, some in rhyme, some are realistic and others fantastical." Click here to see more books by Julia Donaldson, including other Songbirds collections.
The Children's Laureate and bestselling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has carefully created the Songbirds Phonics series to support parents and teachers in helping children learning to read. Julia Donaldson has captivated children all over the world with her lively and engaging stories. This series of books under the Songbirds name builds children's confidence through a clear phonics development with gradual progression to build reading confidence and success. This Stage 6 Songbirds collection contains 6 exciting phonics stories in 1! These are perfect for parents to read at home with their kids to establish a really strong love of reading and to build confidence. Julia Donaldson says: "Creating the 'Songbirds' series was an enormous challenge of my favourite kind. Almost every word in every book had to be phonically decodable, and yet I wanted to write real stories which children would enjoy reading. I was determined also that the content and illustrations should be as varied as possible, as I know how children’s tastes differ and how monotonous some reading schemes can be. So some of the stories are in prose, some in rhyme, some are realistic and others fantastical." Click here to see more books by Julia Donaldson, including other Songbirds collections.
Winner of the Galaxy Children's Book Award 2010. Book and CD edition. The creators of the best-selling Gruffalo have invented a delightful new character – Zog the little dragon who always wants to do best at school. Zog’s determination to win gold stars leads him into loads of mishaps but luckily he always gets help from a little girl. And she is just as helpful when he needs a princess to rescue. Soon Zog, the princess and the prince who wants to marry her are off to do good in the world in this witty reinvention of the role of dragons. On receiving the award for WH Smith Children’s Book of the Year, Julia and Axel said: “We are delighted that Zog has won the Children’s Book of the Year award for this year’s Galaxy National Book Awards. We have worked together on creating picture books since A Squash and a Squeeze in 1993 and are continually pleased to see children and families loving our books. It is wonderful to know that Zog has captured everyone’s imagination and is a new favourite.”
A Lovereading4kids 'Great Read' you may have missed 2011 selection. 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 someone who can appreciate his rhyming habit. He has no luck with a worm, a mole or a centipede but luckily happens on a sheep with the same gift. Great happiness follows. Lydia Monks’ sparkling and tactile illustrations make a great accompaniment. A wonderful tale from the creators of the bestselling What the Ladybird Heard. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Best-selling author Julia Donaldson captures the magic of the mermaid’s song in this dramatic story of how a mermaid is lured from her beautiful home by the sea to the circus to sing for the crowds. How she escapes with the help of her old friends from the sea and her new friends from the circus is witty told in the Children’s Laureate’s trademark rhyming couplets. Lydia Monk’s glittery illustrations on every page add dazzle! ~ Julia Eccleshare Spot the Differences in this special Singing Mermaid Activity Page!
There's a hullabaloo at the seaside when a toddler takes his friends on a stroll to the end of the pier. Hurry scurry, flip flop, toddle waddle. With jaunty rhymes and bright, bold pictures even the youngest child will love this simple, playful story. Click here for an activity sheet related to this book !
This beautiful gift set contains two popular titles from the MY FIRST GRUFFALO series. Learn all about colours with your favourite characters from the classic story, then use the buggy book to take the Gruffalo with you wherever you go! Perfect for small paws!
Winner of the Scottish Book Award 2010 (0-7 years category). Best-selling author and illustrator Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks have teamed up for another brilliant picture book. Right in the farmyard among all the noisy animals with their MOOs! and QUACKS! and BAAs! and OINKs! lives a tiny silent ladybird. This beautiful glittery creature (little fingers will love to feel her sparkly shape) is so quiet that she hears two crafty robbers plotting to raid the farmyard. And she comes up with a very clever plan to stop them, helped by the very noisy animals all around her. A wonderful adventure with gorgeous stylised illustrations.
The Children's Laureate and bestselling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has carefully created the Songbirds Phonics series to support parents and teachers in helping children learning to read. Julia Donaldson has captivated children all over the world with her lively and engaging stories. This series of books under the Songbirds name builds children's confidence through a clear phonics development with gradual progression to build reading confidence and success. This Stage 4 Songbirds collection contains 6 exciting phonics stories in 1! These are perfect for parents to read at home with their kids to establish a really strong love of reading and to build confidence. Julia Donaldson says: "Creating the 'Songbirds' series was an enormous challenge of my favourite kind. Almost every word in every book had to be phonically decodable, and yet I wanted to write real stories which children would enjoy reading. I was determined also that the content and illustrations should be as varied as possible, as I know how children’s tastes differ and how monotonous some reading schemes can be. So some of the stories are in prose, some in rhyme, some are realistic and others fantastical." Click here to see more books by Julia Donaldson, including other Songbirds collections.
The Children's Laureate and bestselling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has carefully created the Songbirds Phonics series to support parents and teachers in helping children learning to read. Julia Donaldson has captivated children all over the world with her lively and engaging stories. This series of books under the Songbirds name builds children's confidence through a clear phonics development with gradual progression to build reading confidence and success. This Stage 4 Songbirds collection contains 6 exciting phonics stories in 1! These are perfect for parents to read at home with their kids to establish a really strong love of reading and to build confidence. Julia Donaldson says: "Creating the 'Songbirds' series was an enormous challenge of my favourite kind. Almost every word in every book had to be phonically decodable, and yet I wanted to write real stories which children would enjoy reading. I was determined also that the content and illustrations should be as varied as possible, as I know how children’s tastes differ and how monotonous some reading schemes can be. So some of the stories are in prose, some in rhyme, some are realistic and others fantastical." Click here to see more books by Julia Donaldson, including other Songbirds collections.
The Children's Laureate and bestselling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has carefully created the Songbirds Phonics series to support parents and teachers in helping children learning to read. Julia Donaldson has captivated children all over the world with her lively and engaging stories. This series of books under the Songbirds name builds children's confidence through a clear phonics development with gradual progression to build reading confidence and success. This Stage 3 Songbirds collection contains 6 exciting phonics stories in 1! These are perfect for parents to read at home with their kids to establish a really strong love of reading and to build confidence. Julia Donaldson says: "Creating the 'Songbirds' series was an enormous challenge of my favourite kind. Almost every word in every book had to be phonically decodable, and yet I wanted to write real stories which children would enjoy reading. I was determined also that the content and illustrations should be as varied as possible, as I know how children’s tastes differ and how monotonous some reading schemes can be. So some of the stories are in prose, some in rhyme, some are realistic and others fantastical." Click here to see more books by Julia Donaldson, including other Songbirds collections.
Playgroup has begun. Time to have some fun. A comforting story for any child starting at, or already attending, a playgroup. Perfect for reading aloud, even the youngest toddler will enjoy Goat's antics.
The Children's Laureate and best-selling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has carefully created the Songbirds Phonics series to support children who are learning to read. Julia Donaldson has captivated children all over the world with her lively and engaging stories. This series of books under the Songbirds name builds children's confidence through a clear phonics development with gradual progression to build reading confidence and success. This Stage 1+ Songbirds collection contains 12 exciting phonics stories in 1! These are perfect for parents to read at home with their kids to establish a really strong love of reading. Julia Donaldson says: "Creating the 'Songbirds' series was an enormous challenge of my favourite kind. Almost every word in every book had to be phonically decodable, and yet I wanted to write real stories which children would enjoy reading. I was determined also that the content and illustrations should be as varied as possible, as I know how children’s tastes differ and how monotonous some reading schemes can be. So some of the stories are in prose, some in rhyme, some are realistic and others fantastical." Click here to see more books by Julia Donaldson, including other Songbirds collections.
Learn about colours, numbers, opposites and animals with this fabulous set of four bold, bright board books now available in a miniature slipcase. A perfect gift for young Gruffalo fans with small paws! Click here for the Gruffalo official website.
The Children's Laureate and best-selling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has carefully created the Songbirds Phonics series to support children who are learning to read. Julia Donaldson has captivated children all over the world with her lively and engaging stories. This series of books under the Songbirds name builds children's confidence through a clear phonics development with gradual progression to build reading confidence and success. This Stage 3 Songbirds collection contains 6 exciting phonics stories in 1! These are perfect for parents to read at home with their kids to establish a really strong love of reading. Julia Donaldson says: "Creating the 'Songbirds' series was an enormous challenge of my favourite kind. Almost every word in every book had to be phonically decodable, and yet I wanted to write real stories which children would enjoy reading. I was determined also that the content and illustrations should be as varied as possible, as I know how children’s tastes differ and how monotonous some reading schemes can be. So some of the stories are in prose, some in rhyme, some are realistic and others fantastical." Click here to see more books by Julia Donaldson, including other Songbirds collections.
The Children's Laureate and best-selling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has carefully created the Songbirds Phonics series to support children who are learning to read. Julia Donaldson has captivated children all over the world with her lively and engaging stories. This series of books under the Songbirds name builds children's confidence through a clear phonics development with gradual progression to build reading confidence and success. This Stage 2 Songbirds collection contains 6 exciting phonics stories in 1! These are perfect for parents to read at home with their kids to establish a really strong love of reading. Julia Donaldson says: "Creating the 'Songbirds' series was an enormous challenge of my favourite kind. Almost every word in every book had to be phonically decodable, and yet I wanted to write real stories which children would enjoy reading. I was determined also that the content and illustrations should be as varied as possible, as I know how children’s tastes differ and how monotonous some reading schemes can be. So some of the stories are in prose, some in rhyme, some are realistic and others fantastical." Click here to see more books by Julia Donaldson, including other Songbirds collections.
The Children's Laureate and best-selling author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson has carefully created the Songbirds Phonics series to support children who are learning to read. Julia Donaldson has captivated children all over the world with her lively and engaging stories. This series of books under the Songbirds name builds children's confidence through a clear phonics development with gradual progression to build reading confidence and success. This Stage 2 Songbirds collection contains 6 exciting phonics stories in 1! These are perfect for parents to read at home with their kids to establish a really strong love of reading. Julia Donaldson says: "Creating the 'Songbirds' series was an enormous challenge of my favourite kind. Almost every word in every book had to be phonically decodable, and yet I wanted to write real stories which children would enjoy reading. I was determined also that the content and illustrations should be as varied as possible, as I know how children’s tastes differ and how monotonous some reading schemes can be. So some of the stories are in prose, some in rhyme, some are realistic and others fantastical." Click here to see more books by Julia Donaldson, including other Songbirds collections.
Two stories in one! - Follow the Swallow and Spinderella - in this great bind-up of two titles, perfect for children bridging the gap between picture books and chapter books. It's part of Egmont's highly sought after and hugely respected Blue Bananas series. Plenty of colour illustrations on every spread and integrated with the text. To view more Blue Bananas titles click here.
Baby and Toddlers. Hardback and CD Audio. Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson’s third wonderful song book is packed full of the words and music for a host of songs including one for the Gruffalo’s Child to sing a part on their own – very suitable for children – and an excellent song for the Stick Man, another of Donaldson/ Scheffler’s creations. All the songs are fully illustrated with their well loved characters while the accompanying CD helps everyone to sing along.
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 in trouble - as all babies are! Luckily, the hairy mammoth sweeps the Cave Baby off on a scary moonlit adventure before finding just the place where a creative Cave Baby can be happy!
Make your own play scenes with the magnets and backgrounds provided in this robust and enjoyable addition to the best-selling title. There are thirty magnets of the favourite characters and the scenery as well as fun activities such as The Gruffalo’s Child Quiz. An extra bonus is the special mini edition of The Gruffalo’s Child.
Shortlisted for the Galaxy Children's Book of the Year Award 2011 Best-selling author/ illustrator combination Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have teamed up for another great adventure. Many of the creatures that appear in The Gruffalo feature in this rollicking adventure of a greedy Highway Rat and how he is outwitted by a very clever duck. Axel Scheffler’s animals are as full of vivid expression as usual.
Winner of the Galaxy Children's Book Award 2010. The creators of the best-selling Gruffalo have invented a delightful new character – Zog the little dragon who always wants to do best at school. Zog’s determination to win gold stars leads him into loads of mishaps but luckily he always gets help from a little girl. And she is just as helpful when he needs a princess to rescue. Soon Zog, the princess and the prince who wants to marry her are off to do good in the world in this witty reinvention of the role of dragons. On receiving the award for WH Smith Children’s Book of the Year, Julia and Axel said: “We are delighted that Zog has won the Children’s Book of the Year award for this year’s Galaxy National Book Awards. We have worked together on creating picture books since A Squash and a Squeeze in 1993 and are continually pleased to see children and families loving our books. It is wonderful to know that Zog has captured everyone’s imagination and is a new favourite.”
Newly-appointed Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson’s boisterous shipboard adventure is deliciously suffused with magic and nonsense. Granny’s purple spots are diagnosed as a bad case of the moozles so Jack sets off to find the only cure - the fruit of the flumflum tree from the faraway Isle of Blowyernose. Luckily, Granny packs an amazing patchwork bag for Jack and his crew… Surprising adventures need surprising solutions. Julia Donaldson doesn’t disappoint!
Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson takes readers on an exciting adventure in a farmyard during which a ladybird manages to stop a daring robbery. Listening to all the sounds around her, the ladybird picks up the thieves’ dastardly plan and tells all the animals what they should do. The additional of a sound board gives young listeners the irresistible opportunity to join in the story by making the animal sounds.
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.
A Lovereading4kids 'Great Read' you may have missed 2011 selection. 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 someone who can appreciate his rhyming habit. He has no luck with a worm, a mole or a centipede but luckily happens on a sheep with the same gift. Great happiness follows. Lydia Monk’s sparkling and tactile illustrations make a great accompaniment.
A brand-new baby range for all young Gruffalo fans in buggy book format! Join the Gruffalo as he takes a stroll through the Deep Dark Wood in this bold, bright and portable buggy book. Spot the rustling leaves and scuttling bugs and all your favourite characters from the classic story. Part of the new My First Gruffalo series this title is suitable for babies and toddlers, from the bestselling Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
A Lovereading4kids 'Great Read' you may have missed 2011 selection | 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 his own. But though the new life with Sock and her owners has great attractions, McTat misses his singing partner and the times they had together. Luckily he comes up with a neat solution for putting the two parts of his life together. This edition comes with an accompanying CD so you can sing-along with the Tabby McTat song, listen to award-winning actress Imelda Staunton reading the story, play a Tabby McTat game plus there is a readalong version of the story with musical pings to remind you to turn the pages. Other Axel/Julia collaborations can be found here.
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 in trouble - as all babies are! Luckily, the hairy mammoth sweeps the Cave Baby off on a scary moonlit adventure before finding just the place where a creative Cave Baby can be happy!
Flutter like a butterfly or wriggle like a snake! Wonderfully expressive illustrations show favourite Gruffalo characters vividly in action. Click here to see more books in this series.
Red fox, green trees and, of course, a brown Gruffalo. The world of the Gruffalo is sorted into a range of colours in this visually delightfully concept book. Click here to see more books in this series.
A Lovereading4kids 'Great read you may have missed 2011' selection. Bold images from the best-selling The Gruffalo make counting from 1-5 a joy! 1 Gruffalo (obviously!), 2 squirrels and more. Knowing the characters from the stories makes counting simple and fun. Click here to see more books in this series.
The Gruffalo and his friends introduce the key concepts of big and small, long and short, fast and slow. Lovely images make their points strikingly in this handsome, large-format book. Click here to see more books in this series.
Celebrate Red Nose Day and raise money for Comic Relief with this special edition Gruffalo sticker activity book. It is packed with fun games, jokes, recipes, colouring and drawing, over 250 stickers and some fantastic fundraising ideas! Why not transform yourself into Mouse or the Gruffalo for a Gruffalo Dress-up Day or a host your very own Gruffalo-themed fundraising party, complete with wart and Mouse cupcakes! So join in the monster fun and get giggling with the Gruffalo in aid of Comic Relief. At least £2 from the sale of every book will go directly to Comic Relief. You can also click here to visit the Red Nose website to get more ideas on how to raise money with the Gruffalo.
Weary parents everywhere will be delighted with this Sound Book version of the best selling favourite, The Gruffalo. Now, they can read the story and share Axel Scheffler’s wonderful illustrations but are let off adding their own sounds effects. Instead, they’ll soon find their children follow the icons and press the sound buttons accordingly to create the sounds of the mouse, the fox, the snake and, of course, the gruffalo himself, in this wonderfully vibrant version of this modern classic.
Best-selling author and illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have teamed up again to create 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 his own. But though the new life with Sock and her owners has great attractions, McTat misses his singing partner and the times they had together. Luckily he comes up with a neat solution for putting the two parts of his life together. Other Axel/Julia collaborations can be found here.
Winner of the Galaxy Children's Book Award 2010. The creators of the best-selling Gruffalo have invented a delightful new character – Zog the little dragon who always wants to do best at school. Zog’s determination to win gold stars leads him into loads of mishaps but luckily he always gets help from a little girl. And she is just as helpful when he needs a princess to rescue. Soon Zog, the princess and the prince who wants to marry her are off to do good in the world in this witty reinvention of the role of dragons. On receiving the award for WH Smith Children’s Book of the Year, Julia and Axel said: “We are delighted that Zog has won the Children’s Book of the Year award for this year’s Galaxy National Book Awards. We have worked together on creating picture books since A Squash and a Squeeze in 1993 and are continually pleased to see children and families loving our books. It is wonderful to know that Zog has captured everyone’s imagination and is a new favourite.”
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 in trouble - as all babies are! Luckily, the hairy mammoth sweeps the Cave Baby off on a scary moonlit adventure before finding just the place where a creative Cave Baby can be happy!
A picture book for kids that love Adventure. 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 to sea searching for treasure – which is what they are meant to do. But things get a bit muddled up when the troll goes off in search of a billy goat and accidentally finds the pirates’ treasure. How all gets successfully resolved is brilliantly told in words by Julia Donaldson and in pictures. Click here for an activity sheet related to this book !
A Picture Book for kids that love Animals. Winner of the Scottish Book Award 2010 (0-7 years category). Bestselling author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Lydia Monks have teamed up for another brilliant picture book. Right in the farmyard among all the noisy animals with their MOOs! and QUACKS! and BAAs! and OINKs! lives a tiny silent ladybird. This beautiful glittery creature (little fingers will love to feel her sparkly shape) is so quiet that she hears two crafty robbers plotting to raid the farmyard. And she comes up with a very clever plan to stop them, helped by the very noisy animals all around her. A wonderful adventure with gorgeous stylised illustrations. ~ Julia Eccleshare Click here for a What the Ladybird Heard activity sheet !
There's a hullabaloo at the seaside when a toddler takes his friends on a stroll to the end of the pier. Hurry scurry, flip flop, toddle waddle. With jaunty rhymes and bright, bold pictures even the youngest child will love this simple, playful story. Click here for an activity sheet related to this book !
The best-selling Gruffalo is back in a new, interactive format in this make-your-own book. Gruffalo fans will love the chance of creating their very own version of a favourite story as they recreate scenes in this magnetic edition. Lots of prompts will help children think about how the story could best be told and will keep them amused for hours. Wonderfully inventive.
Creators of The Gruffalo, best selling author/ illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are back with another bestseller on their hands. “Stick Man lives in the family tree/ with Stick Lady love/ And his children three”. But one day Stick Man is pounced on by a dog. Help! This is not what Stick Man wants….While others find many ignominious uses for Stick Man – a bat, a pen, a bow and a boomerang among others – Stick Man does all he can to find his way back home…And, happily, he does! A brilliant visual treat. The Lovereading comment: This new picture book classic from the award-winning creators of The Gruffalo is dazzlingly original with a touching and witty rhyming story featuring an unforgettable hero with real sticking power.
Best-selling author and illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have teamed up again to create 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 his own. But though the new life with Sock and her owners has great attractions, McTat misses his singing partner and the times they had together. Luckily he comes up with a neat solution for putting the two parts of his life together. Other Axel/Julia collaborations can be found here.
Fans of The Gruffalo’s Child will love retelling their favourite story in their own way with the reusable stickers of the very special characters. There are also games, puzzles and colouring in activities to add to the fun. A brilliant book to take for a weekend away, for a longer holiday and for keeping your toddler amused at home.
A picture book for kids that love Adventure. 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 to sea searching for treasure – which is what they are meant to do. But things get a bit muddled up when the troll goes off in search of a billy goat and accidentally finds the pirates’ treasure. How all gets successfully resolved is brilliantly told in words by Julia Donaldson and in pictures. Click here for an activity sheet related to this book !
Bestselling character The Gruffalo makes the perfect centre piece for a party. This pack contains everything needed to create a brilliant themed event filled with all the details of the fabulous Gruffalo world. There’s a party book with suggestions of loads of inventive games to play, a poster for playing stick the wart on the Gruffalo, recipes for warty cupcakes, stencils for drawing some of the much loved Gruffalo images and much more. A wonderful excuse for a party!!!
Book and CD. Best-selling author/ illustrator of The Gruffalo have created a fantastic new character with Tiddler, the little fish who tells some big stories! Showcasing their remarkable talent at the top of their game, they tell the story of tiddler with humour, character and the all important read-out-loud factor. A bouncy, rhyming text delights while the jewel bright illustrations bring alive the feeling of life on the sea bed.
Firmly established as a modern classic which is loved by children the world over, this handsome special edition says Happy 10th Birthday to The Gruffalo. Along with the original story there is an introduction by Julia Donaldson about how the story came to be written – and how it nearly didn’t happen at all! There are also some previously unpublished sketches by Axel Scheffler which show how he built up his pictures of the mouse and the gruffalo himself. A collector’s item for all Gruffalo fans with a fantastic gold over jacket that gives it that finishing touch.
Winner of the Scottish Book Award 2010 (0-7 years category). Best-selling author and illustrator Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks have teamed up for another brilliant picture book. Right in the farmyard among all the noisy animals with their MOOs! and QUACKS! and BAAs! and OINKs! lives a tiny silent ladybird. This beautiful glittery creature (little fingers will love to feel her sparkly shape) is so quiet that she hears two crafty robbers plotting to raid the farmyard. And she comes up with a very clever plan to stop them, helped by the very noisy animals all around her. A wonderful adventure with gorgeous stylised illustrations.
Not only can you read and reread the much loved story of the Gruffalo in this complete work of art but you can open the pop-up stage to act out the adventures of the little brown mouse, or even create a brand new story of your own. The all-in-one format features a wallet packed with Gruffalo goodies including a full cast of characters, a play script and more. It is sure to provide hours of fun!
Creators of The Gruffalo, best selling author/ illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are back with another bestseller on their hands. “Stick Man lives in the family tree/ with Stick Lady love/ And his children three”. But one day Stick Man is pounced on by a dog. Help! This is not what Stick Man wants….While others find many ignominious uses for Stick Man – a bat, a pen, a bow and a boomerang among others – Stick Man does all he can to find his way back home…And, happily, he does! A brilliant visual treat.
Best-selling author/ illustrator of The Gruffalo have created a fantastic new character with Tiddler, the little fish who tells some big stories! Showcasing their remarkable talent at the top of their game, they tell the story of tiddler with humour, character and the all important read-out-loud factor. A bouncy, rhyming text delights while the jewel bright illustrations bring alive the feeling of life on the sea bed.
A mix up with eggs has a placid duckbill dinosaur being brought up by T-Rex’s – clearly this causes hilarious problems. With Julia Donaldson’s irresistible, rollicking rhyming text and David Roberts’ glorious illustration, this bold and brilliant picture book crackles with wit. A future classic is born as is a terrific new partnership of author and illustrator too. Click here for an activity sheet related to this book !
How the world looks by night and by day is nicely contrasted in this entertaining story of two different life styles, which can sometimes – just – meet in the middle. Night Monkey and Day Monkey live in contrasting worlds. While Day Monkey sleeps, Night Monkey plays and so they see the world in very different ways. One sees the moon as a banana the banana as a moon. Which is right? Who can say but the two become firm friends despite their differences. Imelda Staunton’s reading on the accompanying CD is a delight. For information about other titles by the world famous author Julia Donaldson please click here.
“A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood. A fox saw the mouse and the mouse looked good.”So begins the story of how a clever little mouse outwits his big scary enemy. The tasty little mouse needs to make his way through the deep dark woods. How will he do it? By inventing the gruffalo, a fearsome creature with terrible claws, terrible tusks and terrible teeth in his terrible jaws. It’s a brilliant trick. The little mouse’s self-preservation is a witty scam that delights children time after time.This lovely slipcase copy of gruffalo is sure to delight all readers, not just the young.
A book of nine songs and music together with an accompanying CD including her most famous Room on the Broom. Julia may well be one of the UK’s best-loved picture book authors but she is also a very talented song writer and singer as is shown by this wonderful volume that includes piano accompaniment and guitar chords for each score. This will ensure that even the most reluctant toddler will be hooked on the hilariously funny rhymes and appealing characters from a good witch and a bad dragon to a dog and a frog. Click here for an activity sheet related to this book !
A book of nine songs and music together with an accompanying CD including her most famous Room on the Broom. Julia may well be one of the UK’s best-loved picture book authors but she is also a very talented song writer and singer as is shown by this wonderful volume that includes piano accompaniment and guitar chords for each score. This will ensure that even the most reluctant toddler will be hooked on the hilariously funny rhymes and appealing characters from a good witch and a bad dragon to a dog and a frog.
A book of nine songs and music together with an accompanying CD including her most famous Room on the Broom. Julia may well be one of the UK’s best-loved picture book authors but she is also a very talented song writer and singer as is shown by this wonderful volume that includes piano accompaniment and guitar chords for each score. This will ensure that even the most reluctant toddler will be hooked on the hilariously funny rhymes and appealing characters from a good witch and a bad dragon to a dog and a frog.
A book of nine songs and music together with an accompanying CD including her most famous Room on the Broom. Julia may well be one of the UK’s best-loved picture book authors but she is also a very talented song writer and singer as is shown by this wonderful volume that includes piano accompaniment and guitar chords for each score. This will ensure that even the most reluctant toddler will be hooked on the hilariously funny rhymes and appealing characters from a good witch and a bad dragon to a dog and a frog. Click here for an activity sheet related to this book !
New fangled techniques can spoil a good story but here, the use of glitter on every page is nothing short of inspirational. And now with accompaning CD. It provides that wonderful opportunity for children to linger on each spread and touch-and-feel each and every character on the page. The vibrant and magical illustrations by award-winning illustrator Lydia Monks coupled with Julia’s brilliant good versus evil storyline are guaranteed to ensure that girl’s everywhere will treasure this more than anything else this Christmas.
A Picture Book for kids that love Magic. New fangled techniques can spoil a good story but here, the use of glitter on every page is nothing short of inspirational and provides that wonderful opportunity for children to linger on each spread and touch-and-feel each and every character on the page. The vibrant and magical illustrations by award-winning illustrator Lydia Monks coupled with Julia’s brilliant good versus evil storyline are guaranteed to ensure that girl’s everywhere will treasure this, almost more than anything else.
Best-selling author/ illustrator of The Gruffalo have created a fantastic new character with Tiddler, the little fish who tells some big stories! Can they be true? A bouncy, rhyming text delights while the jewel bright illustrations bring alive the feeling of life on the sea bed.
A mix up with eggs has a placid duckbill dinosaur being brought up by T-Rex’s – clearly this causes hilarious problems. With Julia Donaldson’s irresistible, rollicking rhyming text and David Roberts’ glorious illustration, this bold and brilliant picture book crackles with wit. A future classic is born as is a terrific new partnership of author and illustrator too.
There's chaos in the clothes shop when the animals go on a glorious shopping spree. Zebra's zip is stuck and Toad's tracksuit is far too big, but Flamingo finds a stylish bag, and Caterpillar's shoes are really cool. You've never seen a fashion show like it!
A Picture Book for kids that love Magic. New fangled techniques can spoil a good story but here, the use of glitter on every page is nothing short of inspirational and provides that wonderful opportunity for children to linger on each spread and touch-and-feel each and every character on the page. The vibrant and magical illustrations by award-winning illustrator Lydia Monks coupled with Julia’s brilliant good versus evil storyline are guaranteed to ensure that girl’s everywhere will treasure this, almost more than anything else.
A book of nine songs and music together with an accompanying CD including her most famous Room on the Broom. Julia may well be one of the UK’s best-loved picture book authors but she is also a very talented song writer and singer as is shown by this wonderful volume that includes piano accompaniment and guitar chords for each score. This will ensure that even the most reluctant toddler will be hooked on the hilariously funny rhymes and appealing characters from a good witch and a bad dragon to a dog and a frog.
A book of nine songs and music together with an accompanying CD including her most famous Room on the Broom. Julia may well be one of the UK’s best-loved picture book authors but she is also a very talented song writer and singer as is shown by this wonderful volume that includes piano accompaniment and guitar chords for each score. This will ensure that even the most reluctant toddler will be hooked on the hilariously funny rhymes and appealing characters from a good witch and a bad dragon to a dog and a frog. Click here for an activity sheet related to this book !
Rarely do mainstream publishers feel they can justify the publication of plays so we’re particularly delighted to be able to introduce to you this lovely collection, from the queen of song and verse, perfect for the family to act out during the forthcoming cold, dark evenings of the autumn and the winter or for teachers to enjoy with their pupils in class. Most children love acting and it’s a tremendous way to improve their reading within a familiar environment and for that budding actor to show off their talent to family and friends.
Rarely do mainstream publishers feel they can justify the publication of plays so we’re particularly delighted with this new edition of Play Time, a lovely collection, from the queen of song and verse, perfect for the family to act out or for teachers to enjoy with their pupils in class. Most children love acting and it’s a tremendous way to improve their reading within a familiar environment and for that budding actor to show off their talent to family and friends.
This is a complete gem from doyen of the picture book world, Julia Donaldson following the adventures of a hat after it blows of Rosie's head - but will she ever get it bacK?Rosie’s Hat is an absolute must for baby and young toddler as the story is simply told using rhythm, rhyme and repetition and the illustrations give the opportunity for lots of discussion.As well as beautiful illustrations, from Anna Currey, the irresistable sound effects will have every child joining in with the story.
A brilliant rendition played out by some absolutely delightful animals on how not to behave. Sheep, goose and others behave badly whilst rabbit gets angry when everyone seem unable to behave at all. As ever, there’s a moral to the story - and a important one at that.
Magic and mayhem princess style – so if your child is desperate to be a princess this will be right up her street. Packed with stacks of fun, Miror-belle is a character not to be missed.
Frisk the fox cub loves exploring day and night even though his mum says exploring should be done only at night. When he decides to follow Jenny to school one day, all sorts of exciting things happen…Like the Blue and Green Bananas these continue to be perfect for sharing between parent and child and as the child grows in confidence is able to read and re-read alone. The Quick Brown Fox Cub by Julia Donaldson is part of the Banana Books reading series – quality stories for young readers – which in turn is divided into Green, Blue and Red Bananas. Green Bananas, are for first readers, generally from 3-5 years, Blue Bananas, are for developing readers (age 5+) and Red Bananas, like this one are for newly fluent readers (age 6+) designed to build confidence with one story broken into chapters and slightly more complex characters for kids to identify with. Every one of them is written and illustrated by well established authors and artists. Just click here to view others in the Red Bananas series.
Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Prize 2007 'Most Fun Story with Pictures.'Another gem from the prize-winning creators of The Gruffalo. There are lots of reading jokes in this book within a book, within a book: pirates and robbers settle down with their favourite stories and the Three Bears discover Goldilocks reading their favourite book (after having eaten their porridge, of course). It’s all written in bubbly rhyming verse matched with vigorous illustrations which make extensive play of the central joke.
The tiny hermit crab loves his new shell. He doesn't want to share it - not with a blobby purple anemone and a tickly bristleworm. But life in the rock pool proves tougher than Crab thinks, and soon he finds he needs his new housemates in this rollicking story of sea, shells and friendship.
Age 0-5+ Giggle along to these wonderful rhymes whether you’re with your toddler in the nursery or the car. Full of action and noise it’s guaranteed to get kids engaged and stimulated to love poetry. Julia’s verse jumps off the page and Nick’s snazzy illustrations add to the fun.
Age 5+ Crazy Mayonnaisy Mum is packed with all sorts of hilarious poems and rhymes. This book comes complete with some fantastic illustrations by Nick Sharratt.
For my family and me this is still one of THE best picture books ever published. This was Julia and Axel’s first collaboration and is now years later an absolute classic. Simply told through brilliant rhyming text and beautiful illustrations with each and every page exuding fun and entertainment and within it all an important message - be happy with what you have got. Fantastic.
A useful book about the Environment. If bestsellers were decided upon by the number of prestigious awards a book had won then this one, with echoes of Edward Lear would be the blockbuster of all time. Julia really is a past-master of rhyme whilst Axel’s illustrations complement the text quite brilliantly. A book and CD pack is also available.
A wonderful story about a blackbird and the many animals he involves in getting a message to his friend Apollo the swallow thousands of miles away in Africa. This is a Blue Banana title, perfect for developing readers who, either alone or in shared reading, are able to enjoy a single story but still with some speech bubbles and gorgeous full bleed illustrations on virtually every page. Follow the Swallow is part of the Banana Books reading series – quality stories for young readers – which in turn is divided into Green, Blue and Red Bananas. Green Bananas, are for first readers, generally from 3-5 years, Blue Bananas, like this one are for developing readers (age 5+) and Red Bananas are for newly fluent readers (age 6+). Every one of them is written and illustrated by well established authors and artists. ‘I love Bananas! They’re just right for the very young. They take children on adventures into life, into the imagination and into reading for pleasure’ - Wendy Cooling, creator of Bookstart. If you enjoy reading this Blue Banana and/or would like to see other titles in the bunch then click here.
A book of nine songs and music together with an accompanying CD including her most famous Room on the Broom. Julia may well be one of the UK’s best-loved picture book authors but she is also a very talented song writer and singer as is shown by this wonderful volume that includes piano accompaniment and guitar chords for each score. This will ensure that even the most reluctant toddler will be hooked on the hilariously funny rhymes and appealing characters from a good witch and a bad dragon to a dog and a frog. Click here for an activity sheet related to this book !
A book of nine songs and music together with an accompanying CD including her most famous Room on the Broom. Julia may well be one of the UK’s best-loved picture book authors but she is also a very talented song writer and singer as is shown by this wonderful volume that includes piano accompaniment and guitar chords for each score. This will ensure that even the most reluctant toddler will be hooked on the hilariously funny rhymes and appealing characters from a good witch and a bad dragon to a dog and a frog.
This wonderful picture book with brilliant rhyming text coupled with stunning illustrations will have you and your toddler laughing and laughing and laughing time and time again as you read and reread it because your child wants you to reread it again. ~ Julia Eccleshare
“A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood. A fox saw the mouse and the mouse looked good.”So begins the story of how a clever little mouse outwits his big scary enemy. The tasty little mouse needs to make his way through the deep dark woods. How will he do it? By inventing the gruffalo, a fearsome creature with terrible claws, terrible tusks and terrible teeth in his terrible jaws. It’s a brilliant trick. The little mouse’s self-preservation is a witty scam that delights children time after time. Winner of the 2007 Prima Baby and Pregnancy Reader Awards Best Buy for Toddlers Award. For lots more information on the Gruffalo books, games and activities visit www.gruffalo.com
Former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson followed up her best-selling The Gruffalo with a story about The Gruffalo’s Child. This special anniversary edition celebrates its 10th year of entertaining the very young with how the little mouse outwits the Gruffalo’s Child with a plan that is just as cunning as the original one he hatched to frighten away the Gruffalo. Axel Scheffler’s illustrations once again capture the humour of the text and the fear that lurks behind the joke. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Feel the witch's black cape, stroke the dog's soft fur and touch the dragon's rough scales in this interactive touch and feel book, based on the bestselling picture book, Room on the Broom. Join the witch and all her animal friends in this magical touch and feel book, featuring all your favourite characters from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's Room on the Broom. With a simple text, bright colours and touches to explore on every page, the Room on the Broom Touch and Feel Book is perfect for little hands, and is sure to keep preschool children entertained for hours. Enjoy more touch and feel books with: The Gruffalo Touch and Feel Book
Count down to Christmas with this advent calendar collection of twenty-four mini activity, puzzle and game books, based on the bestselling picture books by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Enjoy a book every day with this fantastic festive collection, including colouring, drawing and activity books based on the family-favourite picture books, The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom, The Snail and the Whale and more. Plus lots of family fun with games and quizzes to enjoy together. With twenty-four mini books collected together in a beautiful hardback presentation case with tie ribbon, The Gruffalo and Friends Advent Calendar Book Collection is perfect for sharing together every day of advent.
The brand-new picture book from superstar author and illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler is a riot of slapstick fun and silliness. The Baddies are the meanest, nastiest ghost, witch and troll in the land. They just adore being bad, and fight over who is the worst. When a little girl moves into a nearby cottage, the Baddies can't wait to scare her out of her wits. But the little girl quickly shows them that you don't have to be big to be brave, and baddies don't always win. Perfect read-aloud rhyming text and stunning pictures on every page with lots of details to spot Julia and Axel are the team that have created picture book favourites such as The Gruffalo, Stick Man, Zog and Highway Rat - all of which have been made into animated films premiering on BBC1 Christmas Day. Superworm animation will premiere on BBC Christmas Day 2021.
Celebrate fifteen years of embracing differences with this shiny special anniversary edition of Tyrannosaurus Drip featuring brand new bonus material. Everyone knows that tyrannosauruses are supposed to be big and scary, so when a placid duckbill dinosaur's egg ends up in the wrong nest, confusion is sure to ensue! When the baby dinosaur hatches out, he's so out of place that his grisly big sisters call him Tyrannosaurus Drip. Poor little Drip: all he wants is a quiet life munching on water weed . . . From the stellar partnership of Julia Donaldson and David Roberts, this fantastic rhyming adventure story has plenty of humour and is perfect for young dinosaur fans everywhere!
Soar into space with this glorious love story of alien folk, from the creators of The Gruffalo and Stick Man - read by Oscar-nominated actor Imelda Staunton! The Smeds (who are red) never mix with the Smoos (who are blue). So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love, their families strongly disapprove. But peace is restored and love conquers all in this happiest of love stories. There's even a gorgeous purple baby to celebrate! The complete book now with a CD featuring the story, a listening game and song, all performed by award-winning actor Imelda Staunton From the creators of The Gruffalo, Stick Man and ZOG, which have all been made into animated films shown on BBC1 Zog and the Flying Doctors animation will be shown on BBC1 December 2020. Praise for The Smeds and the Smoos: 'A book for our time.' BBC Radio 4 'Blast off with the most exciting book yet from the creator of The Gruffalo. Get ready for a wild and wonderful journey through space in a book that is perfect for reading together.' The Sun 'The Gruffalo team's own Jabberwocky, with rhyme and nonsense words but a happy ending, inventively illustrated by Scheffler.' The Times 'A timely tale of tolerance that's fun to read aloud.' Daily Express
Join George, the kindest giant you'll ever meet, in this must-have 20th anniversary edition sticker book, based on the bestselling The Smartest Giant in Town. Packed with games, activities and over 400 stickers, this book is perfect for birthdays, rainy days and school holidays - a great gift for any child. The Smartest Giant in Town Sticker Book comes from the award-winning creators of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
Push, pull and slide the moving mechanisms to follow the ladybird and all the animals on the farm in this brilliant board book based on the bestselling classic picture book What the Ladybird Heard. When the little spotty ladybird hears Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh's plan to steal the fine prize cow, she makes a clever plan, and all the animals join in to help stop the thieves! Move the push, pull and slide mechanisms on every spread to join in too and bring the story to life. With a short, simple rhyming text based on the original story, What the Ladybird Heard: A Push, Pull and Slide Book is the perfect introduction for preschoolers to the What the Ladybird Heard series by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, and a great gift for little fans of the bestselling picture book.
