Ali Sparkes - Author
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Ali Sparkes meant to be a superstar singer and actress by now, but that never quite happened . . . probably because this was in the olden days before StrictlyPopXTalentIdol. She could have done it otherwise.
After many drama school rejections, National Service as a Pontin’s Bluecoat (where she became the spangle-clad assistant to a juggling unicyclist – frighteningly, there is photographic proof), a stint in cabaret and then singing in cheesy cover bands, Ali finally got a proper job in local newspapers before absconding to the BBC in the late 1990s. A bit of local radio presenting and producing followed before she chucked in the day job and started writing comedy stuff for Radio 4 (Woman’s Hour and Home Truths).
She also knocked out twenty-two quarterly magazines for BBC Radio Solent, prompting a series of similar BBC local radio magazines around the UK, and she learnt how to edit, take photographs, and create crosswords along the way. But since The Shapeshifter: Finding The Fox came out in 2006, she’s found her groove. If you were to snap her in half she would read CHILDREN’S AUTHOR through the middle like Brighton rock. Although it would probably be a bit difficult to read, what with the blood and entrails and all that . . .
Ali currently has 28 children’s fiction titles published by Oxford University Press including her Shapeshifter series, her Blue Peter Award-winning novel Frozen in Time, and her heart-stopping new adventure series about a group of teenagers with special powers - Unleashed.
Ali Sparkes...
On JOAN AIKEN
Most people know Joan Aiken for the Wolves of Willoughby Chase but for me her best was The Whispering Mountain, featuring the wonderfully bookish Owen, unloved grandson of a Welsh museum curator, caught up in a dark plot involving an ancient harp, dodgy Cockneys, a girl with a pet hawk and a travelling poet – to say nothing of the school bullies he has to enlist to help save the day. Joan inspired me so much, I know my stories bear her mark!
On ENID BLYTON
Without Enid I probably would never have become a bookworm or, eventually an author. Discovering Five Go to Smuggler’s Top in the back of a toy cupboard really changed my life. I understand when people say the characters are a little 2D and the plots a bit similar, but Enid knew exactly what young readers want – fast paced adventure, dogs, secret passages, midnight feasts. I still want all those things.
On JEAN CRAIGHEAD GEORGE
When I was nine our teacher read us My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George - the story of young Sam Gribley who runs away to the mountains to live on his own wits, armed only with a survival handbook and the peregrine falcon he trains to hunt for him. This brilliant book inspired the ‘survival’ and peregrine falcon elements of the Shapeshifter series…
On ANTHONY BUCKERIDGE
The Jennings books were serialised on the radio from the 1950s onwards. Anthony Buckeridge really knew how to write a brilliantly funny schoolboy story which could be read aloud. I loved all the Jennings books, about Jennings and his friend Darbisher, and their complicated and hilarious lives at Linbury Court Preparatory School. I read them aloud to our sons recently and they cracked up, just like I did.
On JEROME K JEROME
Now although this isn’t a children’s book, Three Men in a Boat is something that every bookworm MUST read by the time they turn 14. The story of the author, his two friends and Montmorency the dog, on a boating holiday is strewn with mad incidents involving cheese, scary unopenable tins and a dead dog floating by in the water. I laughed so much I nearly ruptured myself.
Q & A with Ali Sparkes
1. What inspired you to write Frozen in Time?
Two things – 1. I’ve always had a thing about finding something spooky in the woods and 2. I’ve long pondered on what the Famous Five would make of the 21st century world. So I wanted some characters who were very 50s and rather proper – but with grit and courage – to encounter 2009 after being found in the woods.
2. Describe it in two lines?
Freddy & Polly are discovered by Ben and Rachel, cryonically frozen in an underground chamber since 1956 – and woken up. What Ben and Rachel defrost is a mystery involving secret passages, missing scientists, international spies – and Pot Noodle.
3. How long did it take you to write?
Around four months of focused effort, but a much longer period of turning it over in my mind – three or four years.
4. What do you think people will say about this book?
I hope they will say ‘Wow! Get me that book!’
5. Are you working on something else at the moment?
Oh yes. A series of younger children’s books for Oxford, currently entitled CreepyCrawlers, out in 2010, is my main thing right now, but I am planning some other exciting projects with Oxford and Scholastic for 2009. It’s going to be a very busy year.
6. What is your favourite food?
Slightly warm, home made lemon meringue pie.
7. What makes you laugh out loud?
My kids, frequently, The Mighty Boosh, David Mitchell, and people assuming that since I’ve been published I am filthy rich. I hope to stop laughing at that last one eventually.
8. What is your one luxury item you would take with you on to a Desert Island?
My recorder. I am no major talent on it, but I would finally have the time to work out Faure’s Pavanne without making the neighbour’s cat go into spasms.
9. What is your most treasured memory?
(Jointly) The first moment with each of my baby sons & their dad.
10. What is your weakness?
Fondant creams. Especially the ones in the Burley Fudge Shop in the New Forest. I am working on the aversion therapy principal that if I eat enough of them this madness will eventually stop of its own accord – so if anyone gets the urge to send me a box or two, they will be assisting me greatly. (My agent will pass them on… vanilla and strawberry flavours are my biggest challenge.)
11. What do you think your children would say about you?
Mum? Was that the lady we saw at 5am this morning..? Actually, no – I hope it’s not that bad! Jacob (14) and Alex (10) seem to be hugely enjoying all the book stuff (not least because they’re written in to the Shapeshifter series, from book two; see if you can find them!). They would probably say I’m ‘cool’ but there may be a pocket money dimension to this…
12. Who is the person you most admire?
I admire anyone who has to battle through great adversary to get to their goal, and doesn’t give up. It’s a bit of a cop out, I know – there are too many of them to list! On a personal level, my mum and older sister have undoubtedly saved lives in their nursing careers and it doesn’t get much more admirable than that. I admire Johnny Depp too… but for altogether different reasons…
13. What is your most embarrassing moment?
I once spent a day at a local radio station on work experience. It was going really well and I’d even voiced a news report which went out in their hourly bulletins. I felt pretty cool as I said goodbye to them all and caught the train home – and when I got back through my door my husband pointed out to me that I had a long tail of pink toilet roll hanging out the back of my trousers. I worked out that it had to have been there, floating gaily in the breeze behind me, for at least the last hour of my work experience day. I flushed.
14. What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
When I was angsting as a theatre-struck teenager, over possibility of failing an upcoming audition, I would whine ‘Yeah but – why me?’. My parents would always answer ‘Why not you?’ It’s a way of thinking which has served me very well.
15. What is the best piece of advice you could give to someone?
Do what you say you’ll do. Even if it’s only you that knows about it. Make this a habit (unless it becomes genuinely impossible or unwise). Most people talk about what they will do, but never actually do it. You’ll be way ahead of the pack if you just do what you say you’ll do.
16. Define beauty.
The faces of my children (obviously a fairly personal one, that!). A woodland at dawn. Most of Cornwall.
17. What are you reading at the moment?
Hazel by Julie Hearne. It’s painfully frustrating because I can only grab snatched chapters while waiting at the dentist or in the car or something, but the little I’ve read so far is masterfully written. Very very good. Will have time to read it all soon. Not sure if it’s out yet, as mine is an uncorrected proof.
18. What would be on the soundtrack of your film – and who would play you?
Feeling Good – the Muse version. No Surprises Please by RadioHead. Hmmm. Alex Kingston would be good (although a little unfeasibly attractive – but this is MY fantasy, yes?!)
19. Favourite holiday destination?
Cornwall in good weather. With the sun switched on, there’s nowhere to touch The Lizard.
20. Which authors have most inspired you?
Stephen King, Joan Aiken, Anthony Buckeridge, Douglas Adams, Jerome K Jerome… oooh – I could go on and on and o
21. What is your favourite children’s book?
Tough to pick just one, but it would probably have to be The Whispering Mountain by Joan Aiken. On another day it might be Brendan Chase by BB.
22. Most treasured possession?
Aside from family photos and my Apple Macbook, I have some little hematite hearts, gifts from my sons, which I would hate to lose.
23. Where are you happiest?
In my wellies in a woodland stream, poking about with my family on a warm autumn day.
24. Favourite biscuit?
Used to be Lemon Puffs until somebody changed the shape. Manufacturers please note – you can’t lever the top bit off properly with your front teeth when it no longer has corners! This was a vital part of The Lemon Puff Experience. Bring back the rectangle ones! Until they do, I will remain in the chilled, fresh-from-fridge Penguin camp.
25. Pet hates?
The malicious content of newsagents shelves, Big Brother (although I’ll stoop to the celebrity version occasionally), Gordon Ramsey style on-screen bullying and mature male strangers who take it upon themselves to shout ‘left hand down’ and stand in your way while you are trying (perfectly ably!) to park.
26. If you could change one thing about the world we live in today what would it be?
That people would be less easily offended. Too many people seem to have ‘Get offended, as quickly and irrationally as possible’ on their To Do list. Followed by ‘Stay offended, and if possible allow a mate/partner to further whip up your indignation, before nursing said offence for as long as possible.’ Let it go, people – let it go!
In three words: surprises psychic thrills Ali Sparkes’s super-readable Shapeshifter series reaches book six, and a thrilling climax. Sparkes assembles all the characters from the series and its spin off Unleashed for this adventure and fans will appreciate just how the characters have developed over the course of the story. Things are looking bleak for Dax, as Fenton Lodge, home to him and the other COLA (Children of Limitless Ability) has been turned into a virtual prison, surrounded with walls and iron fences. Even a shapeshifter as gifted as Dax is unable to escape. Under constant guard, his only hope is his little sister, but it turns out they have more in common than anyone suspected. Fans will hope that this isn’t the end for the characters, and with an author like Ali Sparkes, nothing should be ruled out. ~ Andrea Reece
Shortlisted for the Children's Book Award 2017 - Books for Older Readers | Readers are plunged straight into the action in Ali Sparke’s new thriller: Jack and his parents are on holiday when their car is stolen, with him still on the back seat. The car-jacker turns out to be a kinder, more complex person than expected, while Jack, brought up on a strict regime of study by his over-protective mother, finds life on the run brings him some longed-for freedom. The two form an unusual friendship, that culminates in Jack helping Ross win £5,000 he desperately needs. Jack’s adventures make for compulsively page-turning reading, and no matter how high the action rages, it somehow feels credible. High octane fun! ~ Andrea Reece
Book of the Year in the 2010 Blue Peter Award and winner of the 'Book I Couldn't Put Down' category Award. A page-turning mystery-adventure with a pleasingly old-fashioned feel as two children, frozen by cryonic suspension by their father in 1956, are miraculously brought back to life by two other children in 2009. There are loads of clues to follow and several mysteries to be solved as well as a lot of enjoyable confusion and surprise as children from ‘then’ see childhood ‘now’. ~ Julia Eccleshare If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles, including Finding the Fox, Running the Risk, Going to Ground, Dowsing the Dead, and Stirring the Storm.
This is a action packed,science fiction story about a boy with super-powers. With a streak of the supernatural running through it, which will greatly appeal to this award-winning novelist's existing fans and new readers alike. This is a prequel to the successful Shapeshifter series - though this works equally well as a stand-alone title.
Book 3 in the superb Unleashed series about a group of children with supernatural powers.
January 2013 Book of the Month Prize winning Ali Sparkes has created a fresh new action-packed series about a group of children with special powers. This is the second in the series. Each novel is brimming with adventure and danger; the kids live together using all their combined skills to keep the enemies that face them at bay. Lisa can hear the dead speak. They plague her with their needs but, can she also harness her special power and use the dead to help her? Despite the security surrounding Gideon and Luke on their family holiday, they are far from safe. Someone is coming for them. A man with the cold air of an experienced killer. Are their powers of telekinesis enough to save them, now that a brutal murderer is on their tail?
A new thrilling adventure for a group of children who can magically switch into being another animal. And, most importantly, switch back! Now Josh and Danny are visiting the Zoo with their friend Petty Potts who is about to turn them each into an anaconda. It’s a very scary thought and they spend some time looking at the dangerous snakes to get used to it. At first all goes well but when Petty leaves the boys things look very dangerous indeed. Will they be trapped with the real anacondas? Great excitement lies at the heart of these pacy adventures. Click here for the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website with games, activities and competitions.
Petty's been kidnapped! Josh and Danny have already broken into her secret lab looking for her, and now they're going to brave all her anti-intruder traps and break into her house. There's no sign of Petty, but there is a very interesting little box ...containing the best SWITCH spray ever. Unable to resist the temptation, the twins head to the park to try out alligator SWITCH spray. But before they make it to the river, they're roped into being in the audience of a touring chat show, with some VERY interesting guests ...
Sizzling adventures happen when twins Josh and Danny swap places with a host of fascinating animals. Armed with the secret spray given to them by Petty Potts, the brilliant and eccentric scientist, Josh and Danny can get out of all kinds of fixes by turning into something else. As lizards, chameleons, turtles, geckos and anacondas the boys discover first hand dangers and the excitement of living in someone else’s skin. Josh and Danny can't wait to try out Petty Potts's crazy new formula - a spray that will turn them into lizards! Soon, they're making the most of their amazing speed and agility by whizzing up a tree. But in no time they're in deep doo-doo. Surrounded by bird poo and in serious danger of being swallowed whole by two moody owls ... Author Ali Sparkes is the winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year Award and illustrator Ross Collins is winner of the Royal Mail Book Award. Click here for the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website with games, activities and competitions.
Sizzling adventures happen when twins Josh and Danny swap places with a host of fascinating animals. Armed with the secret spray given to them by Petty Potts, the brilliant and eccentric scientist, Josh and Danny can get out of all kinds of fixes by turning into something else. As lizards, chameleons, turtles, geckos and anacondas the boys discover first hand dangers and the excitement of living in someone else’s skin. Petty Potts, scientist extraordinaire, is losing her touch. The spray that's supposed to SWITCH Josh and Danny into chameleons refuses to work. But the next day, at school, things get VERY weird. Looks like Petty's spray has worked after all. And it shows no sign of wearing off any time soon ... Author Ali Sparkes is the winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year Award and illustrator Ross Collins is winner of the Royal Mail Book Award. Click here for the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website with games, activities and competitions.
Sizzling adventures happen when twins Josh and Danny swap places with a host of fascinating animals. Armed with the secret spray given to them by Petty Potts, the brilliant and eccentric scientist, Josh and Danny can get out of all kinds of fixes by turning into something else. As lizards, chameleons, turtles, geckos and anacondas the boys discover first hand dangers and the excitement of living in someone else’s skin. Josh and Danny can't believe their luck when crazy scientist Petty Potts turns up on the same beach as them. It's the perfect chance to 'borrow' her new spray that SWITCHes humans into turtles. Soon the boys are having a great time, diving through the waves and slurping on jelly fish ... Until they swim into serious danger. Author Ali Sparkes is the winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year Award and illustrator Ross Collins is winner of the Royal Mail Book Award. Click here for the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website with games, activities and competitions.
Sizzling adventures happen when twins Josh and Danny swap places with a host of fascinating animals. Armed with the secret spray given to them by Petty Potts, the brilliant and eccentric scientist, Josh and Danny can get out of all kinds of fixes by turning into something else. As lizards, chameleons, turtles, geckos and anacondas the boys discover first hand dangers and the excitement of living in someone else’s skin. Josh and Danny are stuck in Princess Land-a toy shop full of pink stuff and worse, actual girls! Before too long, the twins find themselves with the head of a lizard and the body of a boy. Then to make things worse they are dragged into a dangerous game of combat, brother against brother ... Author Ali Sparkes is the winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year Award and illustrator Ross Collins is winner of the Royal Mail Book Award. Click here for the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website with games, activities and competitions.
A double helping of excitement in this bumper book of two stories in one volume. When Petty Potts, scientist with some mad and dangerous ideas, turns up at their summer camp, twins Josh and Danny are determined that they will not go anywhere near her deadly SWITCH formula which can change them into amphibians. But when their friend Pippa gets into difficulties, they know they must act fast! Loads of fun facts pepper the story and there is a useful information guide at the back.
A Lovereading4kids 'Great Read' you may have missed 2011 selection. Prize winning Ali Sparkes has created a fresh new series about a group of children with special powers. In stories brimming with adventure and danger, the kids live together using all their combined skills to keep the enemies that face them at bay. Lisa can hear the dead speak. They plague her with their needs but, can she also harness her special power and use the dead to help her? The first in a thrilling, action-packed series. Shortlisted for the prestigious Sheffield Children's Book Award 2011.
How far would you go to save your annoying big bug sister? When Jenny accidentally uses Petty Potts's S.W.I.T.C.H spray on herself, Josh and Danny know that there is only one thing for it. They'll have to change themselves into crane flies to save their sister. However risky ... About the series: Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
Twins Josh and Danny have been turned into diving beetles! Pond life is scary enough because of what’s in the pond but something much more scary – and dangerous – is outside! How the twins save themselves is a gripping read. Josh and Danny become involved in another of Petty Potts's mad schemes to try out her S.W.I.T.C.H formula. Soon the boys are beetling about in a pond, breathing underwater, and creating the most almighty stench to scare off predators. But pond life is the least of their problems. A mysterious stranger is hanging around and he's out to get them. About the series: Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
An entertaining and surprising adventure, this shows that wishing can be dangerous as Kevin soon finds out after accidentally letting his wish list fall in the river. When Abandinus becomes his own personal god, Kevin’s life takes off in some unexpected directions. While much of what the god brings has its good side there are some aspects he’d very much rather be without!
An adventure story in which surprising things happen set deep in an underground world. Unhappy while staying with his mean relatives, Eddie finds himself led into the secret and unexplored parts of Wookey Hole. His exciting adventures make up for the miserable time in his own world and also give him insight into what is going on around him. Wookey Hole remains one of the most popular holiday attractions in the UK so there are sure to be loads of kids keen to read a novel and a very good one at that that’s set in the infamous Wookey hole. Ali’s previous novels are also very atmospheric of time and place. Click here to view them
Book of the Year in the 2010 Blue Peter Award and winner of the 'Book I Couldn't Put Down' category Award. A page-turning mystery-adventure with a pleasingly old-fashioned feel as two children, frozen by cryonic suspension by their father in 1956, are miraculously brought back to life by two other children in 2009. There are loads of clues to follow and several mysteries to be solved as well as a lot of enjoyable confusion and surprise as children from ‘then’ see childhood ‘now’. If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles, including Finding the Fox, Running the Risk, Going to Ground, Dowsing the Dead, and Stirring the Storm.
Another exciting adventure in the Shapeshifters series. Someone is out to get Dax and the other Children of Limitless Ability. Despite being sent to the country for safekeeping, the net is closing in. Can Dax save his friends? And, can he find out why they have their special powers? If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles, including Finding the Fox, Running the Risk, Going to Ground, Dowsing the Dead, and her latest book Frozen in Time.
Fans of Alex Rider love this series, which involves fast-paced action where the spirit world and the real world meet; where shapeshifter Dax and his friends are looking for a slightly quieter life, but not for long. All is not well in the spirit world and once again is Dax able to ensure good overcomes evil? This is the penultimate title in the series, we rate the first three very highly and are looking forward to reading the fifth and final in the series. Perfect reading for the 8+ age range and we’ve found boys and girls have enjoyed them evenly. If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles, including Finding the Fox, Running the Risk, Going to Ground, Stirring the Storm, and her latest book Frozen in Time.
This series has really found its feet with a multitude of new readers discovering it. The plot line twists for a pastime and keeps you guessing right to the very end and Dax and his friends must call upon their special powers of shapeshifting to try to outwit the Government agents stalking them. We’ve heard nothing but praise from 9-12 year olds reading this series. Fans of Anthony Horowitz, Garth Nix and Eoin Colfer to name just three will love it. If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles, including Finding the Fox, Running the Risk, Dowsing the Dead, Stirring the Storm, and her latest book Frozen in Time.
An exciting second set of thrilling adventures for Dax who thought he was an ordinary schoolboy until he suddenly turns into a fox. It turns out that he is one of a chosen group being trained by the government in a special school. Dax is excited about returning to school for the new term but, almost as soon as he does, he finds some very strange things are going on. Is it just Dax’s imagination or is there something sinister happening? If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles, including Finding the Fox, Going to Ground, Dowsing the Dead, Stirring the Storm, and her latest book Frozen in Time.
Dax is a boy with a difference: Dax can turn into a fox. Suddenly able to follow a scent, search out dangers and scavenge for his own food, Dax finds a new life opening before him. Soon Dax is off to Tregarren College, where is mixes with other children with exceptional skills. Dax’s parallel lives as a boy and a fox make exciting reading. If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles in the brilliant Shapeshifter series by clicking here
Spin has always dwelled in the darkness. He was happy to lurk alone, until Elena, Matt and Tima came to disrupt his night-time world. Elena, Matt, and Tima are Night Speakers. They wake up at the same time, every night, and since the beginning of these wake-up calls they have all had the power to speak any language. And that doesn't stop with humans. Something weird is going on at the hospital-children are going in, and not coming out. The Night Speakers are investigating, but even they, with their incredible powers of communication with the animal world, are struggling to find out the truth. But Spin's got a ringside seat. Because Spin's got a secret, and he's about to come out of the shadows The third standalone book in the Night Speakers series - action adventures about contemporary children with extraordinary powers, told with award-winning author Ali Sparkes's classic humour and energy.
Jasmine can't help speaking in rhyme and it's quite inconvenient to rhyme all the time. When she gets to school she finds that it's worse. The whole of her class can only speak in verse! Books with short chapters are a great way for children who are reading independently to extend reading stamina and progress to the next step of their reading journey. This Read with Oxford Stage 6 book has rhyming verses, short chapters, an engaging story and humorous colour illustrations. Tips for parents and fun after-reading activities help you to get the most out of the story. Featuring much-loved characters, great authors, engaging storylines and fun activities, Read with Oxford offers an exciting range of carefully levelled reading books to build your child's reading confidence. Find practical advice, free eBooks and fun activities to help your child progress on oxfordowl.co.uk. Let's get them flying!
Do you scream over spiders or bolt from bats? In Scratch's Bad Reputations, Scratch the rat looks at animals that have a reputation for being scary but are they really bad, or just misunderstood? Oxford Reading Tree inFact is a non-fiction series that aims to engage children in reading for pleasure as powerfully as fiction does. The variety of topics means there are books to interest every child in this compelling series. The series is written by top children's authors and subject experts. The books are carefully levelled, making it easy to match every child to the right book.
Since the 1.34 a.m. wake up calls began, Elena, Matt, and Tima had all had the power to talk to animals, birds and insects like no other human could. None of them would ever trade that for a full eight hours sleep. It was too amazing. But an amazing life has its complications. Like finding a body in the dark. Like having to stop the world from ending. You can fit a lot in your day when you don't sleep. New from award-winning author, Ali Sparkes, with huge appeal for both boys and girls. Fast-paced action adventure about contemporary children with mysterious powers, told with Ali's classic humour and lightness of touch.
Night after night Elena, Matt, and Tima wake at exactly the same time, with no idea why. It's messing them up and fracturing their lives . . . until they venture out into the dark and find each other. And then the sleepless trio realize their astounding power - they can speak any language; they can even communicate with animals. But something is happening over on the industrial estate-something which is emitting sounds that only they can hear, and killing any winged thing that crosses its path. There's nobody to fight it but themselves, for only they can possibly understand it and what it means to do . . . A new edge-of-your-seat series from award-winning author, Ali Sparkes, with huge appeal for both boys and girls. Fast-paced action adventure about contemporary children with mysterious powers, told with Ali's classic humour and lightness of touch.
The Earth and Sky collection of texts provides children with the perfect foundation for practising the 10 comprehension strategies in Project X Comprehension Express. There are 9 texts in the collection covering highly-engaging fiction and non-fiction. Each text is carefully levelled to be accessible to every child - including those just behind age-related expectations. This collection of texts is part of Project X Comprehension Express. It is a whole-class teaching programme specially built to help children in Years 4-6 (P5-P7) master comprehension and excel in the new National Reading Test. It includes Handbooks, Workbooks, Expert Tip flashcards and an Expert Tip poster. Online teaching resources and best practice films are available on www.oxfordowl.co.uk to ensure its easy implementation.
What if your new best friend was a ghost? Getting struck by lightning whilst huddling under a tree isn't exactly the way Alisha and Theo would have chosen to get out of sports day . . . Surviving the strike makes them see life differently. It also makes them notice Doug and Lizzie. Struck by lightning under that same tree on the common in 1975, the two teenagers have been hanging out there ever since. Doug and Lizzie are funny, clever, brave - and quite happy about making friends with a pair of ten-year-olds. OK, fair point, they are dead, and Doug's trousers are worryingly flared. But you can't have everything. But something sinister is going on at school - although only Theo and Alisha seem to be able to see it. What can it mean when ragged faceless entities keep staring in through the windows? Not all ghosts are friendly like Doug and Lizzie . . . but are these phantoms really the harbingers of doom for all the kids at Beechwood Junior? A fun and fast-paced ghostly mystery with lightning strikes, floating phantoms, and four fantastic friends just trying to get on with their everyday lives . . . or deaths . . . From the prize-winning author of Frozen in Time, the Shapeshifter series, and many more!
When the ground opens up underneath Bella, it's only the start of her adventures ... Oxford Reading Tree All Stars is an engaging chapter fiction series which combines age-appropriate content with imaginative stories, perfect for inspiring and stretching able infants. The series develops comprehension skills and provides a wide variety of fiction topics and styles, alongside illustrations that aid understanding. All the books in this series are carefully levelled, so it's easy to match every child to the right book - one which will develop their reading skills and fuel their love of reading. Help with children's reading development is also available at www.oxfordowl.co.uk.
Ordinary kids: extraordinary powers: amazing adventures. The fantastic Shapeshifter series continues with Dax and his friends settling into their new secret hideaway in the Lake District. The whole place has been fortified so that the Children of Limitless Ability won't ever be under threat again. After dodging death once too often for his liking, Dax is looking forward to a quieter time-building a tree house in the grounds and shifting to a fox or a falcon and exploring the countryside. But all is not well in the spirit world-strange messages are coming through and Dax, Gideon, Lisa and Mia must once again join forces. Could the messages be coming from Luke and Catherine, Gideon's dead brother and sister? Perhaps they're even still alive? In which case, they have to rescue Luke from Catherine's evil clutches-but is Dax really a match for her? With appeal for both boys and girls, this is a fast-paced action adventure about contemporary children with super powers, told with award-winning Ali Sparkes's humour and lightness of touch. Perfect for fans of Alex Rider, Robert Muchamore's CHERUB series, and Young Bond.
Ordinary kids: extraordinary powers: amazing adventures. There's a lot of strange stuff going on for Dax Jones. To start with there's the mysterious letter from his dad telling Dax to go to a secret location and find something from his dead mother. Perhaps it's a clue about how he became a shapeshifter. Then there's the weirdness at school. The scientists are up to something, but Dax is sworn to secrecy-he can't even tell his best mate. So when his classmates are suddenly taken away 'for their own safety', Dax's fox senses tell him all is not as it seems. If Dax continues with his quest to find out more about his mother he could be leaving his friends in danger. Is he really willing to risk their lives in his search for the truth about his existence? With appeal for both boys and girls, this exciting finale to the original Shapeshifter series is a fast-paced action adventure about contemporary children with super powers, told with award-winning Ali Sparkes's humour and lightness of touch. Perfect for fans of Alex Rider, Robert Muchamore's CHERUB series, and Young Bond.
This series has really found its feet with a multitude of new readers discovering it. The plot line twists for a pastime and keeps you guessing right to the very end and Dax and his friends must call upon their special powers of shapeshifting to try to outwit the Government agents stalking them. We’ve heard nothing but praise from 9-12 year olds reading this series. Fans of Anthony Horowitz, Garth Nix and Eoin Colfer to name just three will love it. If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles, including Finding the Fox, Running the Risk, Dowsing the Dead, Stirring the Storm, and her latest book Frozen in Time.
An exciting second set of thrilling adventures for Dax who thought he was an ordinary schoolboy until he suddenly turns into a fox. It turns out that he is one of a chosen group being trained by the government in a special school. Dax is excited about returning to school for the new term but, almost as soon as he does, he finds some very strange things are going on. Is it just Dax’s imagination or is there something sinister happening? If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles, including Finding the Fox, Going to Ground, Dowsing the Dead, Stirring the Storm, and her latest book Frozen in Time.
In three words: surprises psychic thrills Ali Sparkes’s super-readable Shapeshifter series reaches book six, and a thrilling climax. Sparkes assembles all the characters from the series and its spin off Unleashed for this adventure and fans will appreciate just how the characters have developed over the course of the story. Things are looking bleak for Dax, as Fenton Lodge, home to him and the other COLA (Children of Limitless Ability) has been turned into a virtual prison, surrounded with walls and iron fences. Even a shapeshifter as gifted as Dax is unable to escape. Under constant guard, his only hope is his little sister, but it turns out they have more in common than anyone suspected. Fans will hope that this isn’t the end for the characters, and with an author like Ali Sparkes, nothing should be ruled out. ~ Andrea Reece
Dax is a boy with a difference: Dax can turn into a fox. Suddenly able to follow a scent, search out dangers and scavenge for his own food, Dax finds a new life opening before him. Soon Dax is off to Tregarren College, where is mixes with other children with exceptional skills. Dax’s parallel lives as a boy and a fox make exciting reading. If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles in the brilliant Shapeshifter series by clicking here
Anita can't help speaking in rhyme and it's quite inconvenient to rhyme all the time. When she gets to school she finds that it's worse. The whole of her class can only speak in verse! Oxford Reading Tree Story Sparks is an emotionally-engaging fiction series that will fire children's imaginations. These 36 original stories will get children thinking, and develop and deepen their comprehension skills. The variety of authors and illustration styles broadens children's reading experience, with something to appeal to every child. All the books in the series are carefully levelled, so it's easy to match every child to the right book for them. They also contain inside cover notes, to enable parents and teachers to support children in their reading. Help with children's reading development is also available at www.oxfordowl.co.uk.
Shortlisted for the Children's Book Award 2017 - Books for Older Readers | Readers are plunged straight into the action in Ali Sparke’s new thriller: Jack and his parents are on holiday when their car is stolen, with him still on the back seat. The car-jacker turns out to be a kinder, more complex person than expected, while Jack, brought up on a strict regime of study by his over-protective mother, finds life on the run brings him some longed-for freedom. The two form an unusual friendship, that culminates in Jack helping Ross win £5,000 he desperately needs. Jack’s adventures make for compulsively page-turning reading, and no matter how high the action rages, it somehow feels credible. High octane fun! ~ Andrea Reece
An entertaining and surprising adventure, this shows that wishing can be dangerous as Kevin soon finds out after accidentally letting his wish list fall in the river. When Abandinus becomes his own personal god, Kevin’s life takes off in some unexpected directions. While much of what the god brings has its good side there are some aspects he’d very much rather be without!
Which animal do you think would be the most help in an emergency? Step Away from the Kitten! is a hilarious look at some of history's most helpful (and cutest!) animals. TreeTops inFact is a non-fiction series that aims to engage children in reading for pleasure as powerfully as fiction does. The variety of topics means there are books to interest every child in this compelling series. The series is written by top children's authors and subject experts. The books are carefully levelled, making it easy to match every child to the right book.
Like Doctor Who? You'll LOVE the new action-packed adventure by Ali Sparkes - winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year Award! Imagine you are the only survivor from another planet. You've spent ten years on a spaceship learning how to be human, and now the end of your journey is in sight . . . All you have to do is land safely, convince the earthlings that you're a real teenager, and start your new life on Earth. No problem. Except that the killer alien responsible for wiping out your people has hitched a lift. And it's just a matter of time before it starts on the human race . . .
An adventure story in which surprising things happen set deep in an underground world. Unhappy while staying with his mean relatives, Eddie finds himself led into the secret and unexplored parts of Wookey Hole. His exciting adventures make up for the miserable time in his own world and also give him insight into what is going on around him. Wookey Hole remains one of the most popular holiday attractions in the UK so there are sure to be loads of kids keen to read a novel and a very good one at that that’s set in the infamous Wookey hole. Ali’s previous novels are also very atmospheric of time and place. Click here to view them
The final book in the mind-blowing Unleashed series. When Mia washes up on a remote beach, barely alive and suffering from amnesia, there's only one thing she knows for certain . . . everyone she loves is dead. Sheltered by a tiny Irish community, her healing warmth brings joy and relief to strangers . . . but her returning memory tells a different story; of terrible things she's done. All she wants is to disappear for ever, but the truth is catching up with her, a shadowy presence is messing with her mind, enemies are closing in. She can't stay hidden for long . . .
From the winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year Award comes the fourth book in the unmissable Unleashed series. A group of very special teenagers. Each with an incredible power, they live together, protected by the government. Out in the ordinary world they know they must not use their powers. But good intentions are easy . . . following them through is another matter. One moment Alex Teller is joking around with his brother Jacob. A split second later he finds himself thousands of miles away in the Dominican rainforest. Impossible, right? That's what Alex thinks. Until he meets Olu - a teenager with the paranormal ability to teleport anywhere in the world. With Olu, Alex can experience something he's not had for years - freedom. But at what price? A sinister presence is looming . . . someone who knows about their powers and wants to use them for evil. Soon Alex is literally clinging to life. And Jacob must do something terrible to save him . . .
This is a action packed,science fiction story about a boy with super-powers. With a streak of the supernatural running through it, which will greatly appeal to this award-winning novelist's existing fans and new readers alike. This is a prequel to the successful Shapeshifter series - though this works equally well as a stand-alone title.
Book of the Year in the 2010 Blue Peter Award and winner of the 'Book I Couldn't Put Down' category Award. A page-turning mystery-adventure with a pleasingly old-fashioned feel as two children, frozen by cryonic suspension by their father in 1956, are miraculously brought back to life by two other children in 2009. There are loads of clues to follow and several mysteries to be solved as well as a lot of enjoyable confusion and surprise as children from ‘then’ see childhood ‘now’. If you enjoyed this then check out Ali Sparkes' other titles, including Finding the Fox, Running the Risk, Going to Ground, Dowsing the Dead, and Stirring the Storm.
A Lovereading4kids 'Great Read' you may have missed 2011 selection. Prize winning Ali Sparkes has created a fresh new series about a group of children with special powers. In stories brimming with adventure and danger, the kids live together using all their combined skills to keep the enemies that face them at bay. Lisa can hear the dead speak. They plague her with their needs but, can she also harness her special power and use the dead to help her? The first in a thrilling, action-packed series. Shortlisted for the prestigious Sheffield Children's Book Award 2011.
Book 3 in the superb Unleashed series about a group of children with supernatural powers.
January 2013 Book of the Month Prize winning Ali Sparkes has created a fresh new action-packed series about a group of children with special powers. This is the second in the series. Each novel is brimming with adventure and danger; the kids live together using all their combined skills to keep the enemies that face them at bay. Lisa can hear the dead speak. They plague her with their needs but, can she also harness her special power and use the dead to help her? Despite the security surrounding Gideon and Luke on their family holiday, they are far from safe. Someone is coming for them. A man with the cold air of an experienced killer. Are their powers of telekinesis enough to save them, now that a brutal murderer is on their tail?
A new thrilling adventure for a group of children who can magically switch into being another animal. And, most importantly, switch back! Now Josh and Danny are visiting the Zoo with their friend Petty Potts who is about to turn them each into an anaconda. It’s a very scary thought and they spend some time looking at the dangerous snakes to get used to it. At first all goes well but when Petty leaves the boys things look very dangerous indeed. Will they be trapped with the real anacondas? Great excitement lies at the heart of these pacy adventures. Click here for the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website with games, activities and competitions.
Petty's been kidnapped! Josh and Danny have already broken into her secret lab looking for her, and now they're going to brave all her anti-intruder traps and break into her house. There's no sign of Petty, but there is a very interesting little box ...containing the best SWITCH spray ever. Unable to resist the temptation, the twins head to the park to try out alligator SWITCH spray. But before they make it to the river, they're roped into being in the audience of a touring chat show, with some VERY interesting guests ...
Sizzling adventures happen when twins Josh and Danny swap places with a host of fascinating animals. Armed with the secret spray given to them by Petty Potts, the brilliant and eccentric scientist, Josh and Danny can get out of all kinds of fixes by turning into something else. As lizards, chameleons, turtles, geckos and anacondas the boys discover first hand dangers and the excitement of living in someone else’s skin. Petty Potts, scientist extraordinaire, is losing her touch. The spray that's supposed to SWITCH Josh and Danny into chameleons refuses to work. But the next day, at school, things get VERY weird. Looks like Petty's spray has worked after all. And it shows no sign of wearing off any time soon ... Author Ali Sparkes is the winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year Award and illustrator Ross Collins is winner of the Royal Mail Book Award. Click here for the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website with games, activities and competitions.
Sizzling adventures happen when twins Josh and Danny swap places with a host of fascinating animals. Armed with the secret spray given to them by Petty Potts, the brilliant and eccentric scientist, Josh and Danny can get out of all kinds of fixes by turning into something else. As lizards, chameleons, turtles, geckos and anacondas the boys discover first hand dangers and the excitement of living in someone else’s skin. Josh and Danny can't believe their luck when crazy scientist Petty Potts turns up on the same beach as them. It's the perfect chance to 'borrow' her new spray that SWITCHes humans into turtles. Soon the boys are having a great time, diving through the waves and slurping on jelly fish ... Until they swim into serious danger. Author Ali Sparkes is the winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year Award and illustrator Ross Collins is winner of the Royal Mail Book Award. Click here for the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website with games, activities and competitions.
Sizzling adventures happen when twins Josh and Danny swap places with a host of fascinating animals. Armed with the secret spray given to them by Petty Potts, the brilliant and eccentric scientist, Josh and Danny can get out of all kinds of fixes by turning into something else. As lizards, chameleons, turtles, geckos and anacondas the boys discover first hand dangers and the excitement of living in someone else’s skin. Josh and Danny can't wait to try out Petty Potts's crazy new formula - a spray that will turn them into lizards! Soon, they're making the most of their amazing speed and agility by whizzing up a tree. But in no time they're in deep doo-doo. Surrounded by bird poo and in serious danger of being swallowed whole by two moody owls ... Author Ali Sparkes is the winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year Award and illustrator Ross Collins is winner of the Royal Mail Book Award. Click here for the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website with games, activities and competitions.
Sizzling adventures happen when twins Josh and Danny swap places with a host of fascinating animals. Armed with the secret spray given to them by Petty Potts, the brilliant and eccentric scientist, Josh and Danny can get out of all kinds of fixes by turning into something else. As lizards, chameleons, turtles, geckos and anacondas the boys discover first hand dangers and the excitement of living in someone else’s skin. Josh and Danny are stuck in Princess Land-a toy shop full of pink stuff and worse, actual girls! Before too long, the twins find themselves with the head of a lizard and the body of a boy. Then to make things worse they are dragged into a dangerous game of combat, brother against brother ... Author Ali Sparkes is the winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year Award and illustrator Ross Collins is winner of the Royal Mail Book Award. Click here for the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website with games, activities and competitions.
How far would you go to save your annoying big bug sister? When Jenny accidentally uses Petty Potts's S.W.I.T.C.H spray on herself, Josh and Danny know that there is only one thing for it. They'll have to change themselves into crane flies to save their sister. However risky ... About the series: Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
Twins Josh and Danny have been turned into diving beetles! Pond life is scary enough because of what’s in the pond but something much more scary – and dangerous – is outside! How the twins save themselves is a gripping read. Josh and Danny become involved in another of Petty Potts's mad schemes to try out her S.W.I.T.C.H formula. Soon the boys are beetling about in a pond, breathing underwater, and creating the most almighty stench to scare off predators. But pond life is the least of their problems. A mysterious stranger is hanging around and he's out to get them. About the series: Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
Boy or insect? Twins Josh and Danny survive a series of thrilling adventures after they have been transformed into bug life by the crazy scientist Petty Potts who injects them with a most unusual serum. How insect-loving Josh and insect-hating Danny survive the dangers of the bugs’ world in a series of adventures as spiders, grasshoppers, flies and ants makes thrilling reading as well as a great introduction into how insects may feel. To check out the S.W.I.T.C.H. series website, click here.
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