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Pete Johnson began work as a flm critic for BBC Radio One, then became a teacher. He is the author of over forty books, including the bestselling How to Train Your Parents. Pete’s books have won various awards, including the Young Telegraph Award and the Brilliant Book Award, and have been translated into 24 languages. Also short-listed for Blue Peter Book Award. Read more about the author here.
How many kids would like to be able to read minds? Imagine what it would be like to know whether your friend really likes you better than anyone else, or if the teacher is planning a surprise test. When Matt is bequeathed a strange crystal he’s amazed to discover it gives him the power to listen in on what people are thinking. At first it seems fantastic, but with superpowers come responsibilities and Matt has to learn – and quickly – when is a good time to engage in a bit of mind-reading, and when isn’t. Typical of Pete Johnson’s writing, this has an exciting, fast-moving plotline that will keep the pages turning, and Matt is a thoroughly recognisable character, even in this extraordinary situation. Great fun.
In a nutshell: non-stop laughs with Louis Pity poor Louis, things at home should be looking up now that his dad’s got a new job, but after a particularly disastrous parents’ evening, everything takes a turn for the really bad (for Louis anyway). His parents decide they need to spend more time with their children, to help them achieve more at school, which means no more guest appearances on Noah and Lily’s vlog for Louis. Fortunately, his girlfriend Maddy has a plan … Narrated by Louis at breakneck speed, packed with jokes and funny observations on contemporary teen life, this is super readable. One to recommend to fans of James Patterson’s I Funny series, which also stars a wannabe teen comic. ~ Andrea Reece A Piece of Passion from the Publisher about My Parents are Driving Me Crazy Louis is desperate to become a professional comedian, and at 13 he already has an agent, Maddy - also thirteen. With Maddy's help, Louis wins a spot in the final of the TV talent show Kids With Attitude. Everybody thinks he'll win, but when it comes to the big day, and Louis feels poorly, well - let's just say things don't go so well! But Pete Johnson's story is about much more than just his determination to achieve fame and fortune as a comedian. The backstory is that Louis's family is turned upside down when his dad loses his job and his mum has to get a full time job. Responsible for cleaning, cooking, and all sorts of unfamiliar household tasks, Dad finds this really tough. So does Louis, when his dad decides that since he's now at home more, the two of them can 'hang out' and be best friends! This is a hilarious story, that the "Wimpy Kid" generation will love, but parents too will warm to a touching tale of a family thrown into chaos, and of how they eventually find a way to get back on track. Highly recommended!
This is a hilarious story of dead fish, gorillas with bananas in their ears, poetry, cunning plans and highly legal documents (kind of). Oh and iPads, iPhones and vlogging of course. I’m sitting at home chortling away at How To Update Your Parents when Ben suddenly looks up from his gamepad and asks… ‘Whatcha reading Mum?’ ‘Oh just a book I’m reviewing.’ I say and carry on reading. Not long after he can’t help but come and take a peek. The cover alone is enticing and the title well… ‘Does it really tell you how to update your parents?’ And then I tell him it’s about a boy called Louis The Laugh who is really funny and all he wants to do is make as many people as possible laugh so he attempts to start his own comedy vlog. However his parents think he spends too much time ‘glued to a screen’ and have decided that their home should become totally device free. Louie of course thinks they’ve ‘totally lost the plot’. Oh the horror, the indignity! Yes, Louis and his younger brother Elliot are forced to return to ‘ye olden days’. The days when people would sit around the fire playing board games, take long walks and do jigsaw puzzles – all the time. ~ Shelley Fallows A Piece of Passion from the Editor How to Update Your Parents is the fourth instalment in the highly successful and popular Louis the Laugh series. Louis is an aspiring comedian and, with the help of girlfriend and ‘agent’, Maddy, he sets out to conquer the world of comedy using vlogs and social media. But there’s just one rather big problem – his parents have enforced a total ban on technology! This results in Louis’ hilarious attempts to get his parents to change their minds and to make them see the error of their ways.Will Louis convince his parents that social media and technology are good things after all? Or will Louis have to find another way to make his voice heard? You’ll have to read the book to find out!In an age where the issue of technology and social media addiction is becoming ever more topical and debated, How to Update Your Parents provides a fresh outlook on the subject and shows both sides of the argument in a thoroughly entertaining, non-judgmental, and hilarious way.
Interest Age Teen Reading Age 7 - In a Nutshell: love and laughs This witty comedy of modern manners will have young people snorting with laughter and quite possibly squirming with embarrassed recognition too. Poor Joe just can’t seem to get a girlfriend; they don’t like his cheesy chat-up lines – memorised from a website – and even his female best friend wants to stay just friends. A new online school dating site offers hope however and his sister and her super-cool boyfriend have all sorts of advice for Joe on ways to make himself more eligible. In the end though, it’s the old-fashioned approach that works. 21st century problems examined in an easy to read and revealing short novel! ~ Andrea Reece Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+ Barrington Stoke is the foremost publisher of dyslexia friendly books and those for reluctant readers. Here on Lovereading4kids we are constantly selecting new titles and refreshing our special dyslexia friendly category. Click here to view our current selection which is broken down by age range.
Interest Age Teen Reading Age 8+. Spencer is determined that he’ll stay exactly as he is when he turns 13. As he tells his diary, he wants nothing to do with the clothes, kit and attitudes that other teenagers adopt. But when his friend Zac turns 13 he suddenly buys himself a new image – complete with skateboard. Will Spencer be able to hold out against the trend? ~ Julia Eccleshare Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+ Without exception dyslexia-friendly books published by Barrington Stoke get off to an exciting start and maintain the impetus throughout, with a cliffhanger at the end of every chapter. The plot is clear, the characters appealing and there are plenty of visual clues, as dyslexics like to run a story like a video in their heads. Barrington Stoke is the foremost publisher of dyslexia friendly books and those for reluctant readers. Here on Lovereading4kids we are constantly selecting new titles and refreshing our special dyslexia friendly category. Click here to view our current selection which is broken down by age range.
Interest Age Teen Reading Age 8+ Hilarious sequel to Diary of an (Un)teenager, from the author of the best-selling How to Train Your Parents. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+ Barrington Stoke is the foremost publisher of dyslexia friendly books and those for reluctant readers. Here on Lovereading4kids we are constantly selecting new titles and refreshing our special dyslexia friendly category. Click here to view our current selection which is broken down by age range.
The ups and downs of would-be comic Louis’s life make for highly amusing reading. Ups include first date with his friend/comedy agent Maddy, and forth-coming appearance on a TV talent show; downs are school, Mr Beach in particular, and Dad, newly redundant and therefore in Mum’s place at home, instituting cleaning rotas with missionary zeal. There is an up to Dad’s new role too: he’ll happily write Louis’s history essays for him, something Mum would never sanction! Pete Johnson is very good on ordinary family relationships, there’s lots that readers will recognise in this entertaining adolescent sit-com and real substance beneath the comedy. ~ Andrea Reece A Piece of Passion from the Publishers Louis is desperate to become a professional comedian, and at 13 he already has an agent, Maddy - also thirteen. With Maddy's help, Louis wins a spot in the final of the TV talent show Kids With Attitude. Everybody thinks he'll win, but when it comes to the big day, and Louis feels poorly, well - let's just say things don't go so well! But Pete Johnson's story is about much more than just his determination to achieve fame and fortune as a comedian. The backstory is that Louis's family is turned upside down when his dad loses his job and his mum has to get a full time job. Responsible for cleaning, cooking, and all sorts of unfamiliar household tasks, Dad finds this really tough. So does Louis, when his dad decides that since he's now at home more, the two of them can 'hang out' and be best friends! This is a hilarious story, that the "Wimpy Kid" generation will love, but parents too will warm to a touching tale of a family thrown into chaos, and of how they eventually find a way to get back on track. Highly recommended!
A humorous and perceptive tale exploring teen life. Luke defends his sister and ends up challenging the hardest boy in school to a fight! Will he survive the showdown? Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+ Barrington Stoke is the foremost publisher of dyslexia friendly books and those for reluctant readers. Here on Lovereading4kids we are constantly selecting new titles and refreshing our special dyslexia friendly category. Click here to view our current selection which is broken down by age range.
Interest Age Teen Reading Age 7+ Pete Johnson brilliantly captures a moment in two teenagers lives as he gets under the skin of what the pressures they are under. ‘Just Chill’ – Lara’s motto propels Dominic on a wonderful six hours of fun when the pair walk out of an exam early. Having both feigned sickness for different reasons Dominic, nick-named the Nerd and Lara, the hottest girl in the class, find fun in sharing their very different but equally real problems as they enjoy a day off from the pressures of their lives. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+
Shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2013 Out of the blue, Louis’s parents ask for tips on being cool. At first Louis is amused and teaches his parents how to use lingo like ‘wicked’ and ‘sick,’ – until one day things go too far and in public too!...
Interest Age Teen Reading Age 7 Ben hates being a new boy. Even with a new hair cut and contact lenses instead of his usual glasses, he feels like a misfit. Until the girls start noticing him! Ben seems to attract admiring glances wherever he goes but is that only because they think he is the actor from a top TV show? Ben can’t see any problem with going along with their mistake but gradually, things begin to get a little out of control! An entertaining story about identity and confidence.
Marcus, Tallulah and Gracie are back in this final fast-paced, fun and frightening story in award-winning Pete Johnson's vampire series, following on from The Vampire Blog and The Vampire Hunters. The Vampire Fighters is the third installment in award-winning Pete Johnson's vampire series, and it is the funniest yet. These books are absolutely perfect for young readers who love spooky stories, but aren't quite ready to dive into the world of full-blown horror or paranormal romance just yet. Marcus is thirteen and dealing with all the problems a typical thirteen-year-old has (the embarrassment of parents, the mysteries of girls), and his self-deprecating, sarcastic take on all those things is hilarious enough. Then add to the mix the fact that he's secretly a half-vampire, and it all gets a lot more complicated.In this story, a seriously creepy Winter Fair has arrived in town, and a number of terrifying attacks have started happening. Somehow, Marcus gets roped into tracking down the culprit. All he wants is an easy life, but it looks like it's up to him to save the day . . . again! Click here for Vampire Fighters Classroom Notes and Blogging tips for Kids.
This is a new novel from award-winning author Pete Johnson that taps into the very current interest in vampires - done with Pete's humorous, accessible touch. Click here for book 1 in the series, The Vampire Blog. Click here for the last one, The Vampire Fighters.
Interest Age 11+ Reading Age 8+. Hilarious and much requested follow-up to the award-winning bestseller Diary of an (Un)Teenager. Perfect for reluctant or struggling teen readers as it's short, action packed with a real page-turning quality about it. To view other titles we think are suitable for reluctant readers please click here. A Dyslexia Friendly title.
Welcome to Spook School...where the pupils have bags of spirit! It's exam time at Spook School, and Charlie and Lewis's last exam is their toughest: they have to solve a baffling and very spooky mystery on Earth - in just twenty-four hours. A hotel is being plagued by terrible smells and peculiar scuttling noises, and all the terrified visitors are leaving. Soon Charlie and Lewis come face to face with the strangest monster yet, well not one but hundreds! This is the fourth in the Spook School series. Click here to view them all.
On his thirteenth birthday, Marcus Howlett is faced with a bombshell. His parents are half-vampire. And, although he hates the thought of it, he is about to become one too. But, as he secretly blogs about the horrors of his new fangs, bad breath and cravings for blood, Marcus is unaware that his life is in serious danger... Click here for Blogging tips for Kids and Classroom Notes for the last in the series, The Vampire Fighters. Click here to see the second book in the series, The Vampire Hunters. Click here for the third, The Vampire Fighters.
In this, the third spook school, Charlie and Lewis have been so successful in their Spook Squad assignments that it’s earned them a holiday on Earth but when they get there they find themselves on the trail of a very mysterious ghost. This is a fantastically humorous series from a widely admired children’s author who really knows how to get readers hooked on reading. With black and white illustrations throughout the series can’t fail to inspire.
In this the second in the series Charlie loves being a spook but his latest mission is his most baffling too because he must work out what a giant rat that’s haunting boys down on Earth is really up to. Charlie and his friend Lewis are in for a massive shock. This is a fantastically humorous series from a widely admired children’s author who really knows how to get readers hooked on reading. With black and white illustrations throughout the series can’t fail to inspire.
A fantastically humorous series from a widely admired children’s author who really knows how to get readers hooked on reading. With black and white illustrations throughout the series can’t fail to inspire. Dare you join Charlie and his friend Lewis in the Spook Squad on their very first mission, a mission to investigate Mothman, a terrifying creature with deadly claws, an even deadlier smell and a very bad temper.
Can Jamie deal with the trials of his annoying younger brother Harry? Harry’s younger but taller and seems to take delight in tormenting his older brother… But Jamie has a plan. Making a wish on his amazing cape, he turns Harry into a bluebottle, a suitable punishment he thinks for someone who is always buzzing about. The question is can Jamie turn him back?
This book definitely gets into the category of 'books you can't put down' and has therefore rightly been chosen as one of the Blue Peter Book Award 'Books I couldn't put down' 2007. It's a thriller but it's also full of humour; a funny and subversive look at school life and spy culture. Tasha, a girl obsessed with spies gets a tough time at school for being uncool and a big joke, until a new boy appears who says he IS a spy. But is he? Tasha is in for one hell of a shock.
School is possibly the most boring place on earth – or so Harvey thinks until he comes up with an original way of spicing things up. With bets running during lessons things certainly can be fun. Too much fun sometimes! How often will the Head blow his nose? Count the number of times the supply teacher twitches. And, do it all without the teachers getting suspicious. It’s a great craze but it could go seriously wrong.
How many kids would like to be able to read minds? Imagine what it would be like to know whether your friend really likes you better than anyone else, or if the teacher is planning a surprise test. When Matt is bequeathed a strange crystal he’s amazed to discover it gives him the power to listen in on what people are thinking. At first it seems fantastic, but with superpowers come responsibilities and Matt has to learn – and quickly – when is a good time to engage in a bit of mind-reading, and when isn’t. Typical of Pete Johnson’s writing, this has an exciting, fast-moving plotline that will keep the pages turning, and Matt is a thoroughly recognisable character, even in this extraordinary situation. Great fun.
In a nutshell: non-stop laughs with Louis Pity poor Louis, things at home should be looking up now that his dad’s got a new job, but after a particularly disastrous parents’ evening, everything takes a turn for the really bad (for Louis anyway). His parents decide they need to spend more time with their children, to help them achieve more at school, which means no more guest appearances on Noah and Lily’s vlog for Louis. Fortunately, his girlfriend Maddy has a plan … Narrated by Louis at breakneck speed, packed with jokes and funny observations on contemporary teen life, this is super readable. One to recommend to fans of James Patterson’s I Funny series, which also stars a wannabe teen comic. ~ Andrea Reece A Piece of Passion from the Publisher about My Parents are Driving Me Crazy Louis is desperate to become a professional comedian, and at 13 he already has an agent, Maddy - also thirteen. With Maddy's help, Louis wins a spot in the final of the TV talent show Kids With Attitude. Everybody thinks he'll win, but when it comes to the big day, and Louis feels poorly, well - let's just say things don't go so well! But Pete Johnson's story is about much more than just his determination to achieve fame and fortune as a comedian. The backstory is that Louis's family is turned upside down when his dad loses his job and his mum has to get a full time job. Responsible for cleaning, cooking, and all sorts of unfamiliar household tasks, Dad finds this really tough. So does Louis, when his dad decides that since he's now at home more, the two of them can 'hang out' and be best friends! This is a hilarious story, that the "Wimpy Kid" generation will love, but parents too will warm to a touching tale of a family thrown into chaos, and of how they eventually find a way to get back on track. Highly recommended!
This is a hilarious story of dead fish, gorillas with bananas in their ears, poetry, cunning plans and highly legal documents (kind of). Oh and iPads, iPhones and vlogging of course. I’m sitting at home chortling away at How To Update Your Parents when Ben suddenly looks up from his gamepad and asks… ‘Whatcha reading Mum?’ ‘Oh just a book I’m reviewing.’ I say and carry on reading. Not long after he can’t help but come and take a peek. The cover alone is enticing and the title well… ‘Does it really tell you how to update your parents?’ And then I tell him it’s about a boy called Louis The Laugh who is really funny and all he wants to do is make as many people as possible laugh so he attempts to start his own comedy vlog. However his parents think he spends too much time ‘glued to a screen’ and have decided that their home should become totally device free. Louie of course thinks they’ve ‘totally lost the plot’. Oh the horror, the indignity! Yes, Louis and his younger brother Elliot are forced to return to ‘ye olden days’. The days when people would sit around the fire playing board games, take long walks and do jigsaw puzzles – all the time. ~ Shelley Fallows A Piece of Passion from the Editor How to Update Your Parents is the fourth instalment in the highly successful and popular Louis the Laugh series. Louis is an aspiring comedian and, with the help of girlfriend and ‘agent’, Maddy, he sets out to conquer the world of comedy using vlogs and social media. But there’s just one rather big problem – his parents have enforced a total ban on technology! This results in Louis’ hilarious attempts to get his parents to change their minds and to make them see the error of their ways.Will Louis convince his parents that social media and technology are good things after all? Or will Louis have to find another way to make his voice heard? You’ll have to read the book to find out!In an age where the issue of technology and social media addiction is becoming ever more topical and debated, How to Update Your Parents provides a fresh outlook on the subject and shows both sides of the argument in a thoroughly entertaining, non-judgmental, and hilarious way.
Interest Age Teen Reading Age 7 - In a Nutshell: love and laughs This witty comedy of modern manners will have young people snorting with laughter and quite possibly squirming with embarrassed recognition too. Poor Joe just can’t seem to get a girlfriend; they don’t like his cheesy chat-up lines – memorised from a website – and even his female best friend wants to stay just friends. A new online school dating site offers hope however and his sister and her super-cool boyfriend have all sorts of advice for Joe on ways to make himself more eligible. In the end though, it’s the old-fashioned approach that works. 21st century problems examined in an easy to read and revealing short novel! ~ Andrea Reece Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+ Barrington Stoke is the foremost publisher of dyslexia friendly books and those for reluctant readers. Here on Lovereading4kids we are constantly selecting new titles and refreshing our special dyslexia friendly category. Click here to view our current selection which is broken down by age range.
On the back of the picture were two words which jumped right out at me: THE FRIGHTENERS... When Chloe starts at a new school, she gets off to a really bad start and no-one wants to be her friend - except Aidan. But everyone else seems scared of Aidan - scared of the pictures he draws. Chloe can't imagine why until she picks up one of his drawings of 'The Frighteners'. For now the Frighteners - horrifying monstrous creatures - won't leave her alone...
Interest Age Teen Reading Age 8+ Hilarious sequel to Diary of an (Un)teenager, from the author of the best-selling How to Train Your Parents. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+ Barrington Stoke is the foremost publisher of dyslexia friendly books and those for reluctant readers. Here on Lovereading4kids we are constantly selecting new titles and refreshing our special dyslexia friendly category. Click here to view our current selection which is broken down by age range.
Interest Age Teen Reading Age 8+. Spencer is determined that he’ll stay exactly as he is when he turns 13. As he tells his diary, he wants nothing to do with the clothes, kit and attitudes that other teenagers adopt. But when his friend Zac turns 13 he suddenly buys himself a new image – complete with skateboard. Will Spencer be able to hold out against the trend? ~ Julia Eccleshare Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+ Without exception dyslexia-friendly books published by Barrington Stoke get off to an exciting start and maintain the impetus throughout, with a cliffhanger at the end of every chapter. The plot is clear, the characters appealing and there are plenty of visual clues, as dyslexics like to run a story like a video in their heads. Barrington Stoke is the foremost publisher of dyslexia friendly books and those for reluctant readers. Here on Lovereading4kids we are constantly selecting new titles and refreshing our special dyslexia friendly category. Click here to view our current selection which is broken down by age range.
The ups and downs of would-be comic Louis’s life make for highly amusing reading. Ups include first date with his friend/comedy agent Maddy, and forth-coming appearance on a TV talent show; downs are school, Mr Beach in particular, and Dad, newly redundant and therefore in Mum’s place at home, instituting cleaning rotas with missionary zeal. There is an up to Dad’s new role too: he’ll happily write Louis’s history essays for him, something Mum would never sanction! Pete Johnson is very good on ordinary family relationships, there’s lots that readers will recognise in this entertaining adolescent sit-com and real substance beneath the comedy. ~ Andrea Reece A Piece of Passion from the Publishers Louis is desperate to become a professional comedian, and at 13 he already has an agent, Maddy - also thirteen. With Maddy's help, Louis wins a spot in the final of the TV talent show Kids With Attitude. Everybody thinks he'll win, but when it comes to the big day, and Louis feels poorly, well - let's just say things don't go so well! But Pete Johnson's story is about much more than just his determination to achieve fame and fortune as a comedian. The backstory is that Louis's family is turned upside down when his dad loses his job and his mum has to get a full time job. Responsible for cleaning, cooking, and all sorts of unfamiliar household tasks, Dad finds this really tough. So does Louis, when his dad decides that since he's now at home more, the two of them can 'hang out' and be best friends! This is a hilarious story, that the "Wimpy Kid" generation will love, but parents too will warm to a touching tale of a family thrown into chaos, and of how they eventually find a way to get back on track. Highly recommended!
MY TRUE IDENTITY . . . SPELLS DANGER! Everyone thinks Tasha is a big joke because she is OBSESSED with spies. But when Henry, the new boy at school, accidentally MIXES up his notebook with hers, Tasha has breathed her LAST EVER bit of dull air. Henry tells her he is a TEENAGE SPY. And that he needs to use her room for surveillance on his latest TARGETS. Tasha is just THRILLED to discover that her neighbours are enemy agents. And her new life of spying, gadgets and sneaking around is really cool. But is Henry all he claims to be? Or could he be stretching the TRUTH? Tasha's doubts grow. . .and then she receives an incredible shock . . .
A humorous and perceptive tale exploring teen life. Luke defends his sister and ends up challenging the hardest boy in school to a fight! Will he survive the showdown? Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+ Barrington Stoke is the foremost publisher of dyslexia friendly books and those for reluctant readers. Here on Lovereading4kids we are constantly selecting new titles and refreshing our special dyslexia friendly category. Click here to view our current selection which is broken down by age range.
Two terrifying tales from the award-winning Pete Johnson The Ghost Dog Daniel's story about a bloodthirsty dog goes down well at a spooky party. But then somehow his imagination comes to life and the howling monster begins to haunt his dreams! Winner of the Young Telegraph/Fully Booked Award The Creeper Lucy finds an old tape of the spine-chilling story of the Creeper - a horrific creature looking for revenge. Lucy knows she has just done something terrible - will the Creeper track her down? Winner of the Stockton Children's Book Award
Remember, you may not see me, but I shall be there... watching. You cannot hide from the Creeper... Lucy is delighted when she spots the old audio tape in a second-hand bookshop: a spooky story, perfect for listening to at Halloween. But then she and her friend Jack listen to the tape, and Lucy is suddenly really scared. For the story tells the terrifying tale of the Creeper, a horrific creature formed from the ashes of a murdered man and bent on revenge against all wrongdoers. And Lucy has just done something truly terrible to her best friend. Now the Creeper is loose - and he has a new victim...
Sam and Freddie, both fostered with the same family, are best friends. Sam even laughs at Freddie's jokes! But after Sam has an accident and knocks herself unconscious, she begins to have weird nightmares about a sinister figure with huge eyes - alien eyes. Freddie, who thinks he knows everything there is to know about extra-terrestrials, jokes that aliens must be after Sam - trying to contact her. But it's just his imagination, isn't it? Until they see the spaceship...
Joe and Claire can see why Mum chucked Dad out. He looks a mess, he can't cook and he's useless around the house. Something must be done: they're the only ones who can help transform him into 'Dad Mark Two'. And when they unveil this new, improved dad, Mum will be so impressed she'll take him back on the spot! But then disaster strikes - Mum starts seeing the slimy and creepy Roger. And Joe and Claire's plans take an unexpected turn - with hilarious results.
Joe and Claire can see why Mum chucked Dad out. He looks a mess, he can't cook and he's useless around the house. Something must be done: they're the only ones who can help transform him into 'Dad Mark Two'. And when they unveil this new, improved dad, Mum will be so impressed she'll take him back on the spot! But then disaster strikes - Mum starts seeing the slimy and creepy Roger. And Joe and Claire's plans take an unexpected turn - with hilarious results.
Sam and Freddie, both fostered with the same family, are best friends. Sam even laughs at Freddie's jokes! But after Sam has an accident and knocks herself unconscious, she begins to have weird nightmares about a sinister figure with huge eyes - alien eyes. Freddie, who thinks he knows everything there is to know about extra-terrestrials, jokes that aliens must be after Sam - trying to contact her. But it's just his imagination, isn't it? Until they see the spaceship . . .
Marcus isn't an ordinary thirteen-year-old. He has an amazing secret: he's a half-vampire, with incredible special powers. And together with his friends Tallulah and Gracie, he hunts and fights a totally evil enemy: the deadly vampires, who are out to destroy all humans and half-vampires. But something strange has happened to Marcus. He's lost his memory, and can't remember anything about his previous life as a vampire hunter. Tallulah and Gracie are seriously worried. They think his amnesia is very suspicious and sinister - and might have something to do with the weird new horror shop that's just opened up in town . . .
Interest Age Teen Reading Age 7+ Pete Johnson brilliantly captures a moment in two teenagers lives as he gets under the skin of what the pressures they are under. ‘Just Chill’ – Lara’s motto propels Dominic on a wonderful six hours of fun when the pair walk out of an exam early. Having both feigned sickness for different reasons Dominic, nick-named the Nerd and Lara, the hottest girl in the class, find fun in sharing their very different but equally real problems as they enjoy a day off from the pressures of their lives. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+
Theo findet Schule sooooo langweilig. Doch dann kommt ihm gemeinsam mit seinem besten Freund George DIE Idee. Der Unterricht ware so viel spannender, wenn man ihn etwas aufpeppen wurde! Und zwar mit einer Wette. Wie oft zuckt das Gesicht des neuen Vertretungslehrers und wie oft schnauzt sich der Mathelehrer innerhalb einer Stunde? Das Spielfieber greift um sich. Immer mehr Klassenkameraden wollen Teil der exklusiven Wettgemeinschaft sein. Endlich macht Schule Spa!Mge das Glck mit euch sein!
Shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2013 Out of the blue, Louis’s parents ask for tips on being cool. At first Louis is amused and teaches his parents how to use lingo like ‘wicked’ and ‘sick,’ – until one day things go too far and in public too!...
Interest Age Teen Reading Age 7 Ben hates being a new boy. Even with a new hair cut and contact lenses instead of his usual glasses, he feels like a misfit. Until the girls start noticing him! Ben seems to attract admiring glances wherever he goes but is that only because they think he is the actor from a top TV show? Ben can’t see any problem with going along with their mistake but gradually, things begin to get a little out of control! An entertaining story about identity and confidence.
Marcus, Tallulah and Gracie are back in this final fast-paced, fun and frightening story in award-winning Pete Johnson's vampire series, following on from The Vampire Blog and The Vampire Hunters. The Vampire Fighters is the third installment in award-winning Pete Johnson's vampire series, and it is the funniest yet. These books are absolutely perfect for young readers who love spooky stories, but aren't quite ready to dive into the world of full-blown horror or paranormal romance just yet. Marcus is thirteen and dealing with all the problems a typical thirteen-year-old has (the embarrassment of parents, the mysteries of girls), and his self-deprecating, sarcastic take on all those things is hilarious enough. Then add to the mix the fact that he's secretly a half-vampire, and it all gets a lot more complicated.In this story, a seriously creepy Winter Fair has arrived in town, and a number of terrifying attacks have started happening. Somehow, Marcus gets roped into tracking down the culprit. All he wants is an easy life, but it looks like it's up to him to save the day . . . again! Click here for Vampire Fighters Classroom Notes and Blogging tips for Kids.
This is a new novel from award-winning author Pete Johnson that taps into the very current interest in vampires - done with Pete's humorous, accessible touch. Click here for book 1 in the series, The Vampire Blog. Click here for the last one, The Vampire Fighters.
Interest Age 11+ Reading Age 8+. Hilarious and much requested follow-up to the award-winning bestseller Diary of an (Un)Teenager. Perfect for reluctant or struggling teen readers as it's short, action packed with a real page-turning quality about it. To view other titles we think are suitable for reluctant readers please click here. A Dyslexia Friendly title.
On his thirteenth birthday, Marcus Howlett is faced with a bombshell. His parents are half-vampire. And, although he hates the thought of it, he is about to become one too. But, as he secretly blogs about the horrors of his new fangs, bad breath and cravings for blood, Marcus is unaware that his life is in serious danger... Click here for Blogging tips for Kids and Classroom Notes for the last in the series, The Vampire Fighters. Click here to see the second book in the series, The Vampire Hunters. Click here for the third, The Vampire Fighters.
Welcome to Spook School...where the pupils have bags of spirit! It's exam time at Spook School, and Charlie and Lewis's last exam is their toughest: they have to solve a baffling and very spooky mystery on Earth - in just twenty-four hours. A hotel is being plagued by terrible smells and peculiar scuttling noises, and all the terrified visitors are leaving. Soon Charlie and Lewis come face to face with the strangest monster yet, well not one but hundreds! This is the fourth in the Spook School series. Click here to view them all.
In this, the third spook school, Charlie and Lewis have been so successful in their Spook Squad assignments that it’s earned them a holiday on Earth but when they get there they find themselves on the trail of a very mysterious ghost. This is a fantastically humorous series from a widely admired children’s author who really knows how to get readers hooked on reading. With black and white illustrations throughout the series can’t fail to inspire.
In this the second in the series Charlie loves being a spook but his latest mission is his most baffling too because he must work out what a giant rat that’s haunting boys down on Earth is really up to. Charlie and his friend Lewis are in for a massive shock. This is a fantastically humorous series from a widely admired children’s author who really knows how to get readers hooked on reading. With black and white illustrations throughout the series can’t fail to inspire.
A fantastically humorous series from a widely admired children’s author who really knows how to get readers hooked on reading. With black and white illustrations throughout the series can’t fail to inspire. Dare you join Charlie and his friend Lewis in the Spook Squad on their very first mission, a mission to investigate Mothman, a terrifying creature with deadly claws, an even deadlier smell and a very bad temper.
Andy is sick of his obnoxious brother. As a protest, he refuses to talk for a month. Soon he's a celebrity! But what if there's something he needs to say? Barrington Stoke specialise in books for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic readers.
Zac and Izzy win a place on a new reality TV show, but they have no idea where they're going or what to expect . . . They must live as if it's 1939, the start of World War Two. One by one they will be voted out by the viewing public. It's a hard life and, since each contestant is desperate to be the final winner, there are problems. When the live final arrives, the contestants and the audience will all be stunned by what occurs . . .
Can Jamie deal with the trials of his annoying younger brother Harry? Harry’s younger but taller and seems to take delight in tormenting his older brother… But Jamie has a plan. Making a wish on his amazing cape, he turns Harry into a bluebottle, a suitable punishment he thinks for someone who is always buzzing about. The question is can Jamie turn him back?
Tobey is determined he will be famous. He's not big-headed, he just knows he's got something special and he's determined that everyone will know it! He even hangs around with the stars, getting autographs at film premieres. Tobey and his friend Georgia audition for a role in the local play - and to his huge disappointment, Georgia gets a part, but he doesn't. Can he turn this tragedy around and find a way to be famous after all?
This book definitely gets into the category of 'books you can't put down' and has therefore rightly been chosen as one of the Blue Peter Book Award 'Books I couldn't put down' 2007. It's a thriller but it's also full of humour; a funny and subversive look at school life and spy culture. Tasha, a girl obsessed with spies gets a tough time at school for being uncool and a big joke, until a new boy appears who says he IS a spy. But is he? Tasha is in for one hell of a shock.
Ruby's parents are beyond embarrassing - and now they are planning to sing in the school assembly! They must be stopped! A laugh out loud comedy. Barrington Stoke specialise in books for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic readers.
Scott thinks teachers are boring. Then a new teacher arrives - a teacher with very different ideas about lessons, rules and school. Barrington Stoke specialise in books for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic
School is possibly the most boring place on earth – or so Harvey thinks until he comes up with an original way of spicing things up. With bets running during lessons things certainly can be fun. Too much fun sometimes! How often will the Head blow his nose? Count the number of times the supply teacher twitches. And, do it all without the teachers getting suspicious. It’s a great craze but it could go seriously wrong.
THE PHANTOM THIEF The first time Alfie sees the boy, he appears as if from nowhere in the school detention room - the 'padded cell'. There's something odd about him and Alfie is definitely not pleased when he realizes the boy has nicked his new jacket. But a ghost? That's what his new friend Sarah thinks - and she's so convinced she's prepared to ghost-watch with him. That's when the warning message appears, scratched out on the blackboard by a phantom hand.... MY FRIEND'S A WEREWOLF Kelly always thought werewolves only existed in stories and late-night films. Until Simon moves in next door. Could that be hair beginning to sprout on his face? Why does he wear black gloves all the time - even to school? Last, but definitely not least, there's the howling at night . . . Aren't werewolves . . . dangerous?
Sun, sea, sand ...not to mention Boys! This is what Louise and her best friend Katie have in mind when they set off on their first parent-free holiday to Spain. Their only problem is Annette, a last-minute hanger-on who seems to prefer moaning and tidying to checking out the local clubs and talent ...This is riotous humour and action a-plenty from a master of the teen-comedy genre. Barrington Stoke specialises in books for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic readers.
Archie is a very mature child - some would say far too mature! Having grown up with his gran, he seems to have acquired some adult ways - and the kids at his new school find them unbearable. Especially Miranda - the class troublemaker. At first she absolutely can't stand Archie but then she starts to see him as a bit of a project- could she really make Archie into a Troublemaker Extraordinaire? Their unlikely friendship really gets going when Archie needs help to scare off his dad's new girlfriend...
Spencer's mate Zac has decided he wants to be a real teenager and Spencer is disgusted - he's not interested in girls, skateboards or expensive trainers. A hilarious yet insightful story about growing up for teen boys everywhere Barrington Stoke specialise in books for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic readers.
Moving to a new area and a new school, Louis is horrified to discover his parents changing into ultra-competitive parents, wanting him and his younger brother to get straight As at school and join all sorts of after-school clubs and activities like the other kids in the area. Suddenly Louis's life is no longer his own - until he meets Maddy, who claims to have trained her parents to ignore her- But does Louis really want to be ignored? A truly contemporary tale with characters kids will recognize instantly!
Tom, Mia and Oliver are the victims of a gang of bullies - who waylay them on the way home from school. It's not at school, so the teachers wouldn't be able to help, and they don't want to tell their parents, so there's only one option - to pay up. At first. But as the pressure builds more and more, a terrible suspicion begins to surface: could one of the three friends be helping the bullies? And if so, just who is... the traitor?
Quiet, self-conscious Amy is dead chuffed when the hard girls invite her to join their secret gang, but as one dare leads to another, Amy is soon out of her depth.
When Daniel and his friends make up a ghost story about a terrifying dog what begins as a story turns into a nightmare...A spine tingling tale about a boy haunted by the monsterous creature he created in his own imagination.
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