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Children's Laureate 2015-2017
One of the World Book Day 2015 Authors Chris Riddell was our Author and Illustrator of the Month in December 2010. Click here to find out more.
Chris Riddell is an accomplished artist and the political cartoonist for the Observer. He has enjoyed great acclaim for his books for children. His books have won a number of major prizes, including the 2001, 2004 and 2016 CILIP Kate Greenaway Medals. Goth Girl and the Ghost of a Mouse won the Costa Children's Book Award 2013. His previous work for Macmillan includes the bestselling Ottoline books, The Emperor of Absurdia, and, with Paul Stewart, the Muddle Earth and Scavenger series. Chris lives in Brighton with his family. Read more about Chris Riddell here.
Author photo © Tom Pilston Booktrust
Chris Riddell on John Tenniel : "Before I knew a thing about him, John Tenniel was a hero of mine, or rather, I should say, his white rabbit was. As a child I copied Tenniel’s illustrations from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland obsessively, particularly his drawing of the White Rabbit in waistcoat and frock coat, umbrella tucked under one arm and a pocket watch in paw, a look of suppressed panic in his eye. I loved analysing the shading, intricate lines of cross-hatching, the folds of the sleeve, the tilt of the head, that wide-eyed rabbit stare. Tenniel was one of the reasons I became an illustrator."
Imogen’s life at home is not all perfect so it’s no surprise that she follows the strange silver moth that arrives from nowhere – even when it leads her through a door in a tree! And there’s no stopping her little sister Marie from following…Like any magic opening, the door leads the two girls into an extraordinary world where almost anything can – and will – happen! As in the best traditions of children’s stories, Imogen and Marie meet a wealth of larger-than-life characters including a spoiled prince and a dancing bear as they journey through a richly-imagined world of possibilities. Chris Riddell’s illustrations bring the magic to life perfectly.
October 2020 Debut of the Month | A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month October 2020 | Imogen’s life at home is not all perfect so it’s no surprise that she follows the strange silver moth that arrives from nowhere – even when it leads her through a door in a tree! And there’s no stopping her little sister Marie from following…Like any magic opening, the door leads the two girls into an extraordinary world where almost anything can – and will – happen! As in the best traditions of children’s stories, Imogen and Marie meet a wealth of larger-than-life characters including a spoiled prince and a dancing bear as they journey through a richly-imagined world of possibilities. Chris Riddell’s illustrations bring the magic to life perfectly.
October 2020 Book of the Month | What a witty feast of sing-song verse and visuals this is. Chris Riddell’s vibrant characters whish and whoosh in rhythm with Neil Gaiman’s rambunctious rhymes to create a hearty banquet befitting a pirate crew. The swaggering story begins when a brother and sister are introduced to their babysitter, a certain scar-faced, grey-haired, peg-legged ship’s cook called Long John Mc Ron. Moments after their parents have left, Long John opens the door to an entire crew of hungry pirates, and so he does what any respectable ship’s cook would do – he cooks up “Pirate Stew! Pirate Stew! Eat it and you won’t be blue. You can be a pirate too!” With a rib-tickling twist that will send readers into fits of giggles, Pirate Stew is buccaneering blast of a book that demands to be read aloud, acted out and treasured like ill-gotten gains!
Longlisted for the UKLA Book Awards 2021 | A new book by Chris Riddell is something to celebrate, especially one that gives his unique imagination free rein, as this does. There’s all sorts of trouble in the Kingdom of Thrynne: in the town of Troutwine, King Rat and his followers use threats of violence to extort money from its citizens; in the city of Nightingale, the Clockmaker’s sinister army of tin men enforces his tyrannical rule; and even in the village of Bream, deep in the Great Wood, the magical trees and the giants they shelter are in danger. In the very best tradition of fantasy adventures, three children and three bespoke enchanted objects are all that stand between magic and its destruction. The story positively crackles with invention and each chapter seems to introduce a wonderful new character before the storylines converge for a thrilling climax (fortunately one that leaves the door open for sequels). Fairytale adventure has never seemed so polished or ingenious. Young readers are spoiled for choice now when it comes to magical adventure, and readers of Guardians of Magic must also look out for Cressida Cowell’s Wizards of Once series.
Award-winning Neil Gaiman brilliantly weaves a spell-binding story taking readers up and away on a wild fantasy in which dinosaurs and space travel happily coexist. And all because…Dad has to go out and by the milk! Chris Riddell’s line illustrations capture the invention perfectly. Children of all ages (and lots of childish grown-ups) will be swept along laughing with glee as Dad tries to get the milk home...and possibly save the universe along the way!
Winner of the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2016 | Award-winning Neil Gaiman shows all his story telling skills in this gripping fusion of familiar fairy tales told in a dark-hearted version with some original characters. Especially a bold-hearted queen. Not far from where the queen lives, a princess is under the spell of an enchantress who has put a whole country to sleep. Despite it being the eve of her wedding day, the bold queen decides to take action. Slipping into her mail shirt she arms herself with her sword and sets off out of the palace accompanied by the three dwarves who will lead her through the tunnels…The dark magic, great courage and spell-binding imagination that power this story is perfectly realised in Chris Riddell’s awesome illustrations.
October 2019 Book of the Month | A new book by Chris Riddell is something to celebrate, especially one that gives his unique imagination free rein, as this does. There’s all sorts of trouble in the Kingdom of Thrynne: in the town of Troutwine, King Rat and his followers use threats of violence to extort money from its citizens; in the city of Nightingale, the Clockmaker’s sinister army of tin men enforces his tyrannical rule; and even in the village of Bream, deep in the Great Wood, the magical trees and the giants they shelter are in danger. In the very best tradition of fantasy adventures, three children and three bespoke enchanted objects are all that stand between magic and its destruction. The story positively crackles with invention and each chapter seems to introduce a wonderful new character before the storylines converge for a thrilling climax (fortunately one that leaves the door open for sequels). Fairytale adventure has never seemed so polished or ingenious. Young readers are spoiled for choice now when it comes to magical adventure, and readers of Guardians of Magic must also look out for Cressida Cowell’s Wizards of Once series.
Crazy inventions, mad robots and a stupendous battle! Wendel and the Robots is a very funny adventure full of crazy inventions and magnificent robots from award-winning author and illustrator Chris Riddell - with a subtle environmental message.
October 2018 Book of the Month | | The dazzlingly brilliant Chris Riddell brings his magical illustration talents to J.K. Rowling's gloriously inventive The Tales of Beedle the Bard in a fully illustrated colour edition of this essential classic for Harry Potter fans. Full of magic and trickery, these classic tales both entertain and instruct, and remain as captivating to young wizards today as they were when Beedle first put quill to parchment in the fifteenth century. A world of magical adventure awaits! Visit Bloomsbury's Harry Potter website for magical downloads, games, videos, and more Harry Potter fun!
Best-selling Goth Girl is back for an action-packed new adventure in this stunningly produced volume by former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell which has the additional delight of a mini-book, Fable of a Faun, tucked into it. Lord Goth is turning Ghastly-Gorm Hall into the venue for Gothstock, a sensational music festival that will match his home. Naturally, Ada Goth is thrilled at the thought but will it all go to plan? In both words and pictures Chris Riddell creates an amazing cast of characters and the most original escapades in which they are all entangled.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2018 | Illustrator and author Chris Riddell has created a rich anthology of poems from the past to the present all of which have a special meaning for him. Grouping them under headings including ‘Musings’, ‘Youth’, ‘Imaginings’, ‘Nature’ and ‘Endings’ he has added an illustration to each often giving an insight into his own reading of it. Passages from Shakespeare and classic poems such as John Keats’s Ode to a Nightingale and Lewis Carroll’s Jabberwocky sit comfortably alongside contemporary poems such as Rachel Rooney’s The Language of Cat and Jackie Kay’s Something Rhymed while the inclusion of the words of Leonard Cohen’s Suzanne and Nick Cave’s Love Letter adds a refreshing fresh touch.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2018 | Former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell weaves a wonderful fantasy adventure around some of the best loved fairy story characters in this hugely attractive and thoroughly entertaining picture story book. Little Green Cape sets out with a handful of useful things including a strong straight stick, comfortable clumpy boots and an invitation to a party. Once in the wild woods she is in a magical world where even the trees have faces, full of surprising characters. There’s a Beast looking for his Beauty, three Bears who are mistrustful of strangers, a talking harp, three little pigs, seven dwarves and many more. Young readers will love both feeling they know the stories being surprised by some of the turns of events.
Featuring a selection of rhymes for the very young adapted from Michael Rosen and Chris Riddell’s award-winning A Great Big Cuddle, Wiggly Wiggly is a tour de force of catchy rhythms and bouncy beats, cheerful pictures and cheeky characters. Each of the nine rhymes are made to be read aloud, made to encourage the very littlest to join in with the sounds, the words, the actions (wriggling, bouncing, sloshing, finger walking). The verses will hold their appeal no matter how many times you have to read them (hundreds), while the draughtsmanship and vitality of Chris Riddell’s illustrations takes the breath away with each turn of the page. They’re never too young for poetry and this is an absolute nursery must-have.
Longlisted for the UKLA Book Awards 2020 | Rachel Rooney brings a class to life with poems for all the different characters. There is a rich vein of understanding of children here: never sentimental, always intriguing. Children will delight in the ways in which the styles and patterns of the poems enhance the exploration of each child. The wonderful illustrations draw readers into this magical anthology.
This is the fourth adventure for Ottoline and her best friend Mr Munroe, and it is every bit as enchanting, witty and surprising as the first. The emphasis is on friendship in this story: with her parents still roving the world for interesting items to add to their ever-growing collection of objects, Ottoline holds a dinner party. Guests include the dashing Purple Fox, a new friend, who has introduced Ottoline to some of the city’s most exciting inhabitants and hidden secrets. She’s able to repay him by drawing his attention to something lovely that he’s failed to see. Chris Riddell’s illustrations are as dazzling as ever; it’s worth lingering over every page to revel in the fluency of his line and to look out for the myriad little details. Ottoline is a delight for readers of all ages.
Interest Age 8-12 Reading Age 8 | In a nutshell: cleverly written, brilliantly illustrated, thoroughly accessible adventure Free Lance, the hero of this excellent trilogy, starts this adventure skint as a juggler’s monkey, so when a rich, if shifty, merchant offers him fifty gold coins to get him safely home, of course Lance says yes. You’d think he’d have learned by now to stop and think first. The adventure that follows sees him camping overnight on a haunted plain, scene of a deadly battle, fighting off assassins, and facing an enormous dragon. Will he get to ride off into the sunset for a happy ending? You’ll have to read it. The Free Lance books are perfect mini-sagas, tributes to the ancient stories, action-packed but with room for plenty of wit and Lance’s own brand of wisdom. Unmissable. ~ Andrea Reece Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant or dyslexic readers aged 8+ 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.
November 2017 Book of the Month | Interest Age 5-8 In a nutshell: Ho, ho … oh? It’s Christmas Eve and Jo-Jo’s parents are arguing again. After a particularly upsetting outburst from his mum, the idea lodges in Jo-Jo’s mind that he is responsible for ‘killing Christmas’ and that it’s therefore his duty to step into Father Christmas’s shoes and distribute presents, at the very least to people in his street. So far so interesting, touching and festive – Jo-Jo really has discovered the true meaning of Christmas. But this is Anthony McGowan, an author who is always ready to surprise readers and to subvert expectations, and there’s a delicious if dark shock in the final scene. Chris Riddell’s unmistakable illustrations are the perfect match to this witty, original story. Andrea Reece High quality cream paper and a special easy to read font ensure a smooth read for all. About the Little Gems series: Little Gems are in a gorgeous new chunky format, with high-spec production including coloured endpapers and jacketed flaps with activities. Additional features include high quality cream paper, Barrington Stoke font and illustrations on every page. They are perfect for 5-8's. These quality stories promote good reading practice for all newly independent readers.
Shortlisted for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2017 | Joint Winner of the CLiPPA 2016 (CLPE Children’s Poetry Award). | Children’s Laureates Chris Riddell and Michael Rosen combine here to create a beautiful collection of ebullient poems for the very young. Michael Rosen’s close and affectionate observation of small children and the way they think is brilliantly captured in poems such as You Can’t See Me and Let Me Do It. There are also plenty of opportunities for the very young to join in with poems such as Tippy-Tappy and The Button Bop which they are guaranteed to want to hear again and again! Chris Riddell’s illustrations created an equally warm-hearted view of the early years and capture the spirit of the poems perfectly.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2017 Best-selling Goth Girl is back for an action-packed new adventure in this stunningly produced volume by former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell which has the additional delight of a mini-book, Fable of a Faun, tucked into it. Lord Goth is turning Ghastly-Gorm Hall into the venue for Gothstock, a sensational music festival that will match his home. Naturally, Ada Goth is thrilled at the thought but will it all go to plan? In both words and pictures Chris Riddell creates an amazing cast of characters and the most original escapades in which they are all entangled. ~ Julia Eccleshare Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for September 2017 Goth Girl and the Sinister Symphony by Chris Riddell A Skinful of Shadows by Frances Hardinge This Book Isn't Safe! by Colin Furze The Grotlyn by Benji Davies Billy and the Minpins by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake Toto: The Dog-Gone Amazing Story of The Wizard of Oz by Michael Morpurgo The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf Birthday Boy by David Baddiel
In a nutshell: adventure, double dealing, more adventure Free Lance is very handy on the jousting field, and if you want exciting yet comic adventures, full of medieval types behaving badly, then this series is pretty well unbeatable too. In this episode Lance’s plans to win big at a tournament are upset when it emerges that the organisers, and some of the other competitors too, are thoroughly corrupt. Fortunately, Lance has brains to match his brawn and escapes with his integrity intact as well as the prize money. There’s a comic book feel in the speed and tone of the telling, text and illustrations working together brilliantly: accessible, intelligent and lots of fun. ~ Andrea Reece Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 9+ 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.
Opening Goth Girl and the Wuthering Fright is like opening a treasure box. With its gorgeous metallic edges and golden detail it certainly looks like one, and inside are riches! Chris Riddell seems to surpass himself with each new Goth Girl story, nearly every page features one or more illustrations, each one a small masterpiece of character and drama. As well as the visual invention and wit, there are literary jokes galore. While some of these may go over the heads of young readers, though they‘re likely to colour future readings of classic books, it doesn’t matter because there is so much in the plot to entertain. A host of authors and dogs arrive at Ghastly-Gorm Hall for Lord Goth’s Literary Dog Show, could one of these canine competitors be causing trouble? Ada and her friends investigate. A treat for readers of all ages, and don’t miss the cameo appearance by the author himself, aka Sir Christopher Riddle-of-the Sphinx RA, well-known illustrator of literary dog shows and founder of the Arts and Crufts movement. Sublime! ~ Andrea Reece
A beautiful illustrated record of Chris Riddell's time as the Children's Laureate 2015-2017 with cloth quarter binding, ribbon marker and beautiful end papers this truly is a book to treasure.
Award-winning author/ illustrator Chris Riddell has created a hilarious sequel to the much-loved Goth Girl and the Ghost of a Mouse and this time it has a topical theme. Ada lives in Ghastly-Gorm Hall, a place where magic rules and nothing is quite what it seems. The Ghastly-Gorm Garden Party is coming soon and the high spot will be the Ghastly-Gorm Bake Off. Celebrity chefs with some very remarkable magic tricks will be competing. But, when a group of vampires swoop down for some tasty action of their own, it looks as if all the plans will be scuppered. Luckily, Ada Goth is a very remarkable girl…Chris Riddell’s bake-off creations are sensationally realised in his wonderful illustrations. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Interest Age 8+ Reading Age 8 | In a nutshell: magic, knights and double-dealing Free Lance is a knight for hire, and sometimes has to take jobs he really shouldn’t, which is definitely the case here. The local lord offers him a bagful of gold to go and retrieve a crown from an island in the middle of the alarmingly – but accurately – named Lake of Skulls. The story involves much fighting, most of it underhand, encounters with some really nasty supernatural creatures, and an awful lot of double-crossing. It’s thrilling, gruesome and comic all at once, the authors drawing scenes and characters brilliantly in very few words, while Chris Riddell’s illustrations ooze menace or humour as required. ~ Andrea Reece Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 8+ 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.
Bestselling author/illustrator Chris Riddell creates a fantastical world in which Ada Goth, daughter of the strange Lord Goth of Ghastly-Gorm Hall, is growing up. Ada’s mother is dead and her father is very, very strange! Surrounded by a motley crew of servants and many ghosts, Ada’s life is lonely until she meets Ishmael, a ghostly mouse. Soon Ada and Ishmael are off on some very special adventures! Magic and invention pour forth in this splendidly entertaining story which is also packed full of jokes. Chris Riddell’s illustrations bring everything he imagines to life. Shortlisted for the 2015 CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal - Winner of the Costa Children's Book Award 2013
As 2017 dawns it’s hard to think of a better book to slip into your pocket than 100 Hugs by Chris Riddell. This neat little hardback contains 100 black and white illustrations by Riddell, a virtuoso of the form, and each one will amaze with its delicacy, skill and fluidity. There’s fun to be had in spotting characters – Pinocchio and Geppetto, Alice and the White Rabbit, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, the three little pigs – but the real joy comes just from enjoying the beauty and emotion packed into each drawing. It’s a book that will surprise and entertain no matter how many times it’s opened, and one that will leave readers feeling they too have been hugged. ~ Andrea Reece
A beautiful illustrated gift edition of Frances Hardinge's hugely entertaining and dramatic Victorian thriller. When Faith’s father dies suddenly she knows she must try to find out exactly what he was hiding in the local caves she had recently visited with him. Discovering the extraordinary Lie Tree which thrives off hearing lies and, in turn, reveals secrets long kept hidden Faith begins to uncover a web of secrets and mysteries that will change her view of the world forever. Faith is a feisty heroine whose courage combined with a determination that girls can be brave and resolute leads to the exposure of much dishonesty and many deceptions. Chris Riddells gothic illustrations are perfectly suited to this spellbinding novel. ~ Julia Eccleshare. Winner of the UKLA 2016 Book Award in the 12 - 16 year old category, Winner of the 2015 Costa Book of the Year and Winner of the Costa Children's Book Award. The Lie Tree is only the second children’s book to take the overall Costa Book of the Year prize, and the first since Philip Pullman won with The Amber Spyglass in 2001. James Heneage, chair of the final judges, said: “Part horror, part detective, part historical, this is a fantastic story with great central characters and narrative tension. It’s not only a fabulous children’s book but a book that readers of all ages will love."
One of our Books of the Year 2016 | This is the fourth adventure for Ottoline and her best friend Mr Munroe, and it is every bit as enchanting, witty and surprising as the first. The emphasis is on friendship in this story: with her parents still roving the world for interesting items to add to their ever-growing collection of objects, Ottoline holds a dinner party. Guests include the dashing Purple Fox, a new friend, who has introduced Ottoline to some of the city’s most exciting inhabitants and hidden secrets. She’s able to repay him by drawing his attention to something lovely that he’s failed to see. Chris Riddell’s illustrations are as dazzling as ever; it’s worth lingering over every page to revel in the fluency of his line and to look out for the myriad little details. Ottoline is a delight for readers of all ages.
Prize-winning Neil Gaiman tells a witty and touching story about gods and magic in Viking times. Having run away from home, Odd finds shelter in a little hut in the forest. Here, he meets a bear, a fox and an eagle all of whom seems determined to befriend him. Soon, Odd discovers these are no ordinary animals and that they badly need his help to save the City of Asgard from the Frost Giants who have invaded it. With his cheerful temperament and quick thinking, Odd is just the kind of imaginative hero they need and a wonderful battle for power unfolds. Chris Riddell's enchanting pen and ink illustrations throughout bring the magic to life.
Winner of the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2016. A deluxe edition of the thrillingly reimagined fairy tale by the magical partnership of award-bedecked, bestselling Neil Gaiman and Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell. | Award-winning Neil Gaiman shows all his story telling skills in this gripping fusion of familiar fairy tales told in a dark-hearted version with some original characters. Especially a bold-hearted queen. Not far from where the queen lives, a princess is under the spell of an enchantress who has put a whole country to sleep. Despite it being the eve of her wedding day, the bold queen decides to take action. Slipping into her mail shirt she arms herself with her sword and sets off out of the palace accompanied by the three dwarves who will lead her through the tunnels…The dark magic, great courage and spell-binding imagination that power this story is perfectly realised in Chris Riddell’s awesome illustrations.
Julia Eccleshare's Pick of the Month July 2016 A perfect celebration of Alice Day 2016, this beautiful, fully illustrated edition of Lewis Carroll’s great comic masterpiece which comes complete with gilt-edged pages and a ribbon for a marker, is the perfect gift book for all ages. The Hunting of the Snark, the riotous story of a motley crew’s journey to find the elusive Snark, has a cast of amazing characters including some from Carroll’s The Jabberwocky all of which Chris Riddell brings to life in glorious, brightly coloured caricatures. ~ Julia Eccleshare A message from Chris Riddell : This book is nonsense and, like all the best nonsense, it makes a special kind of sense. The hunting of a Snark is a very complicated business and I suspect that not even the Bellman himself really knows quite how to go about it. But that doesn’t stop him and his crew from pursuing the strange, elusive creature with all the tools at their disposal. Thimbles, forks, railway-shares and soap are all used, along with a lot of care, hope, threats and smiles, but not even the lace-making Beaver, ‘bounding along on the tip of its tail’, can get close. Then, after seven poetic convulsions, in a final ‘fit’ of energy, one of the crew spots a Snark and . . . But no, beamish readers, I won’t give away the ending at the beginning, that would be nonsense. Just let me say, beware of the Jubjub bird that sounds like ‘a pencil that squeaks on a slate’, the frume of the frumious Bandersnatch that can turn you black in the face and, most of all, hunt the Snark carefully, for it might be a Boojum, you see. Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for July 2016 Melric and the Crown by David McKee The Hunting of the Snark by Lewis Carroll, illustrated by Chris Riddell Up, Up and Away by Tom McLaughlin Strange Star by Emma Carroll Farmer Duck by Martin Waddell Such Stuff: A Story-Maker's Inspiration by Michael Morpurgo
One of our Books of the Year 2016 | Interest Age 7-10 Brian Patten tells the story of the hero Beowulf in vivid, accessible prose; in Barrington Stoke’s Little Gems series, aimed at readers of 6 – 8, he chooses not to skip any of the gore of Beowulf’s fights with the monster Grendel and his even more terrifying mother, but it’s lightened with touches of humour and poignancy. Illustrations are by Chris Riddell and full of atmosphere and drama: Grendel’s mother crouched in her bed of bones is a masterpiece of revulsion and pity. Storytelling of this quality is rare, and while the book is ostensibly for younger readers, this is a wonderful introduction to Beowulf for anyone, whatever their age. ~ Andrea Reece About the Little Gems series: Little Gems are in a gorgeous new chunky format, with high-spec production including coloured endpapers and jacketed flaps with activities. Additional features include high quality cream paper, Barrington Stoke font and illustrations on every page. They are perfect for 5-8's. These quality stories promote good reading practice for all newly independent readers.
Longlisted for the UKLA 2017 Book Award | One of our Books of the Year 2015 - December 2015 Book of the Month Island is a powerful and vivid new story from Nicky Singer, the prize-winning author of Feather Boy. London teenager Cameron is cast away on an uninhabited island in the Arctic with his scientist mother Pascale, who seems more interested in her research than him; leaving him to explore this alien tundra landscape and its otherworldly inhabitants. He meets Inuluk, an Inuit girl, accompanied by her grandmother Atka, and is plunged into their spirit world of polar bears, nature and dreams. Nicky Singer vividly captures the vulnerability and the swagger of a teenage boy outside his comfort zone, and contrasts this with the serene knowing of Inuluk as she tries to teach him about their habitat; under threat from global warming, and their lifestyle; where food, warmth and shelter are a luxury, not a guarantee. Island was originally commissioned as a play by the National Theatre in London and the book has wonderful illustrations by Children’s Laureate, Chris Riddell.
Put on your jingle-jangle socks, and prepare for adventure! Sumptuous illustrations tempt readers into the delightfully absurd world in which dinner is served before lunch and skyfish settle on umbrella trees. The young Emperor is a charming child with a hairy wardrobe monster as an advisor who sets off hunting dragons across a gloriously imagined landscape where anything fantastical can happen. A richly entertaining picture book from a uniquely talented artist at the height of his powers. Shortlisted for the Nestle Children's Award 2006 and for the incredibly prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal 2007. Judges' comment: Riddell makes glorious use of colour in this very interesting and engaging picture book, which despite being extraordinarily detailed is very easy to read. It cleverly gives the reader the impression of moving physically into its landscape, and works on lots of different levels as it turns reality completely on its head. The composition of each page is always well-thought out, and the technique of using small pictures at certain points makes the reader slow down and study carefully. The ambiguous ending stays with you, and allows you to take pleasure from the book over and over again.
Crazy inventions, mad robots and a stupendous battle! Wendel and the Robots is a very funny adventure full of crazy inventions and magnificent robots from award-winning author and illustrator Chris Riddell - with a subtle environmental message. Available in mini hardback edition, it's a perfect gift and an ideal stocking filler.
One of our Books of the Year 2015 - September 2015 Book of the Month This second adventure for witchkid Flo Skritchett is likely to prove as popular as the first. A huge part of the fun of the stories is the parallel witch society Emma Fischel has created: parents will envy Flo’s mum’s witchwasher – the witch washing machine – while young readers will long for a skychatter, so much more stylish than a mobile phone. The other fun thing about magical worlds is that they offer so many more chances for children to be heroic, and that’s the case here too. Having already seen off an invasion of ghouls, albeit with the help of her highly eccentric granny and other Skritchett family members, now Flo has to face the terrifying Haggfiend, and virtually single handed – save for a gang of loyal trolls and her best friends. It’s impossible not to get caught up in the story, and the book fairly crackles with energy, excitement and humour too. ~ Andrea Reece Kirsty from Nosy Crow says: “Shiveringly exciting and with such a great voice – Emma plays beautifully with the witch genre and the results are spelltastic"
Shortlisted for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2017 | Joint Winner of the CLiPPA 2016 (CLPE Children’s Poetry Award). | Children’s Laureates Chris Riddell and Michael Rosen combine here to create a beautiful collection of ebullient poems for the very young. Michael Rosen’s close and affectionate observation of small children and the way they think is brilliantly captured in poems such as You Can’t See Me and Let Me Do It. There are also plenty of opportunities for the very young to join in with poems such as Tippy-Tappy and The Button Bop which they are guaranteed to want to hear again and again! Chris Riddell’s illustrations created an equally warm-hearted view of the early years and capture the spirit of the poems perfectly. One of our Books of the Year 2015 - A Reader Review Panel Pick of the Year 2015 - chosen by Robyn Chorely, aged 5- Julia Eccleshare's Book of the Month, September 2015
NOTE: Parents may wish to check the content is suitable for their child. The author slams the corrupt and immoral and highlights the worthy and good in this often outrageous and wonderfully eye-catching book. Brand manages to combine a chillingly creepy Piper and some pretty ghastly characters with quite a lot of toilet humour (so repulsively descriptive it makes you gag and want to put a peg on your nose!). Chris Riddell’s stunning illustrations bewitchingly wrap around, through and under the text, enabling the story to leap from the pages. The old Pied Piper tale is thoroughly stomped on but the morals remain firmly in place. This is a book that actively encourages you to think, it is also likely to make you chortle, gasp, flinch and screech in shock and horror. Yet love it or hate it, it will remain in your mind long after finishing. ~ Liz Robinson
Winner of the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2016 | Award-winning Neil Gaiman shows all his story telling skills in this gripping fusion of familiar fairy tales told in a dark-hearted version with some original characters. Especially a bold-hearted queen. Not far from where the queen lives, a princess is under the spell of an enchantress who has put a whole country to sleep. Despite it being the eve of her wedding day, the bold queen decides to take action. Slipping into her mail shirt she arms herself with her sword and sets off out of the palace accompanied by the three dwarves who will lead her through the tunnels…The dark magic, great courage and spell-binding imagination that power this story is perfectly realised in Chris Riddell’s awesome illustrations.
The Snow Merchant is a fantasy filled with family secrets, magical transformations and wild adventure. Join Lettie on her journey to uncover the true meaning of snow, family and friendship. A gripping debut.
September 2014 Book of the Month Pixies, ghouls, and a granny who is stuck in the old ways are just some of the characters in this highly entertaining and action-packed story set in a witchy world that is as new fangled as our own. Cauldron’s are so yesterday, Flo would never be seen dead with one. She talks to her friends on a skychatter and, if she’s going to travel, she’d take a skycab rather than ride on a wobbly broomstick. Flo is passionate about saving pixies who are almost extinct while Grandma dreads an invasion of ghouls who she thinks are about to attack the Witchworld. Chris Riddell’s illustrations bring this ebullient world, so like our own and so different, vividly to life.
This is a ground-breaking piece of non-fiction written in diary form in the voice of nine year old cabin boy - Jake Carpenter and brilliantly illustrated by none other than illustrator of the moment, Chris Riddell. All action boys and girls will revel in the adventures of derring-do on the high seas. Published originally some years ago it won the Kate Greenaway Medal and the Blue Peter Book Awards: Best Book with Facts. It offers detailed information ion swords, pistols, cannons, floggings and how to navigate ships. It includes a fact section at the back about the colonies, the first pirates, viking raiders, buccaneers, famous pirates throughout history and piracy today. It also includes an index and glossary.
Award winning duo - poet Roger McGough and illustrator Chris Riddell - have created a stunning picture book that is part-fact, part brilliant invention. A little girl thinks she knows just how everything works. Take a toaster, for example. Surely, there’s a dragon inside who breathes fire and makes the toast just right? Or is there another explanation all together? And what about the polar bears in the fridge? Or the pigs in the rubbish truck? Luckily Dudley is on hand to put her right with some rather more scientific answers!
One of our Books of the Year 2014 Award-winning Neil Gaiman brilliantly weaves a spell-binding story taking readers up and away on a wild fantasy in which dinosaurs and space travel happily coexist. And all because…Dad has to go out and by the milk! Chris Riddell’s line illustrations capture the invention perfectly. Children of all ages (and lots of childish grown-ups) will be swept along laughing with glee as Dad tries to get the milk home...and possibly save the universe along the way! In addition to our Lovereading expert opinion for Fortunately, The Milk... a small number of children were lucky enough to be invited to review this title. Here's a taster....'a brilliantly funny and strangely weird time travel adventure.' Scroll down to read more reviews...
Rudyard Kipling’s classic stories are beautifully presented in this highly attractive edition enhanced with eight stunning colour illustrations by Chris Riddell as well as by Kipling’s own illustrations – including his most famous one of The Elephant’s Child. Kipling’s versions of how different animals have come by their characteristic- How the Leopard Got his Spots, How the Whale Got His Throat, The Cat that Walked By Itself and the others remains one of the best books to read aloud to any one from 5 upwards.
September 2013 Book of the Month Award-winning Neil Gaiman brilliantly weaves a spell-binding story taking readers up and away on a wild fantasy in which dinosaurs and space travel happily coexist. And all because…Dad has to go out and by the milk! Chris Riddell’s line illustrations capture the invention perfectly. Children of all ages (and lots of childish grown-ups) will be swept along laughing with glee as Dad tries to get the milk home...and possibly save the universe along the way! In addition to our Lovereading expert opinion for Fortunately, The Milk... a small number of children were lucky enough to be invited to review this title. Here's a taster....'a brilliantly funny and strangely weird time travel adventure.' Scroll down to read more reviews...
Shortlisted for the 2015 CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal - Winner of the Costa Children's Book Award 2013 Bestselling author/illustrator Chris Riddell creates a fantastical world in which Ada Goth, daughter of the strange Lord Goth of Ghastly-Gorm Hall, is growing up. Ada’s mother is dead and her father is very, very strange! Surrounded by a motley crew of servants and many ghosts, Ada’s life is lonely until she meets Ishmael, a ghostly mouse. Soon Ada and Ishmael are off on some very special adventures! Magic and invention pour forth in this splendidly entertaining story which is also packed full of jokes. Chris Riddell’s illustrations bring everything he imagines to life. _______________________ The Costa Book Awards honour some of the most outstanding books of the year written by authors based in the UK and Ireland. The full shortlist for the Children's Book Award is... Alex, the Dog and the Unopenable Door by Ross Montgomery. The Hanged Man Rises by Sarah Naughton Goth Girl: and the Ghost of a Mouse by Chris Riddell Rose Under Fire by Elizabeth Wein Keep up to date with the Costa Book Awards @CostaBookAwards
A magical bedtime adventure unfolds when Tom does what his mother advises and counts sheep to help him get to sleep. But, when one sheep escapes, counting sheep turns into counting wolves, and penguins and pirates and pythons and even ghosts! Will Tom ever get to sleep? Kathryn Cave’s lively text is perfectly matched by award-winning illustrator Chris Riddell’s rumbustious illustrations.
Tenth anniversary edition of Neil Gaiman's modern classic, brilliantly illustrated by Chris Riddell, with a new foreword by the author. When Coraline’s family move into a new home, she steps through a door into another house which seems strangely familiar. It has many of the things she has at home but they are all strangely different. There is even a replacement set of parents. At first, Coraline likes her new home but she soon realises that the new parents are reluctant to let her go. Can Coraline escape? Will she ever get home? Not for the faint hearted, this is a fascinating and chilling story, exquisitely told.
Invention after invention propels this witty new Muddle Earth story by best-selling duo Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell, now in paperback. Joe turns up in Muddle Earth entirely by accident when he falls through a portal while trying to build a flat-pack wardrobe. But he arrives just in the nick of time as Muddle Earth badly needs a hero. How Joe sets about trying to find and rescue the Goblet of Porridge which has been so cruelly stolen is a delightfully unlikely and utterly hilarious story of some most unexpected events. Chris Riddell’s stunning illustrations bring the strange world vividly to light. Click here to see the first book, Muddle Earth !
Age 7+. A wonderful collection of witty and thought provoking poems on every subject you can think of. Ever thought Why Toads Look Much More Serious Than Frogs? Probably not. But, after reading Brian Patten’s poem you may look at a pond in a whole new way!
Invention after invention propels this witty new Muddle Earth story by best-selling duo Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell. Joe turns up in Muddle Earth entirely by accident when he falls through a portal while trying to build a flat-pack wardrobe. But he arrives just in the nick of time as Muddle Earth badly needs a hero. How Joe sets about trying to find and rescue the Goblet of Porridge which has been so cruelly stolen is a delightfully unlikely and utterly hilarious story of some most unexpected events. Chris Riddell’s stunning illustrations bring the strange world vividly to light. Click here to see the first book, Muddle Earth !
11+. Winner of the Carnegie Medal in 2010, shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal in 2010, winner of Best Novel at the Hugo Awards 2009 and of the prestigious Newbery Medal. | Spooks galore in this brilliant and fantastic story of life in the graveyard. When Baby Bod escapes a murderer intent on killing his whole family, he is taken in by the graveyard ghosts. In eight chapters, each of which depicts every other year of Bod’s life, a separate story of Bod’s life unfolds and always in the background there is the sinister, haunting presence of a killer. Bod’s curious tale is a masterpiece of original, absorbing and unstoppable storytelling.
'One of the greatest achievements in comedy. A work of staggering genius' - David Walliams Gorgeous 42nd Anniversary gift edition of Douglas Adams's pop-culture classic, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, stunningly illustrated throughout by Costa Award-winner Chris Riddell. It's an ordinary Thursday lunchtime for Arthur Dent until his house gets demolished. The Earth follows shortly afterwards to make way for a new hyperspace express route, and Arthur's best friend has just announced that he's an alien. At this moment, they're hurtling through space with nothing but their towels and a book inscribed in large, friendly letters: DON'T PANIC. The book is The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and the weekend has only just begun . . . Douglas Adams's mega-selling pop-culture classic sends logic into orbit, plays havoc with physics and twists time, but most importantly it's very, very funny.
Composed throughout the initial phase of the UK's coronavirus lockdown, 'National Reading Hero' Paul Cookson's poetry diary covers the period of 23rd March to 3rd July 2020. Compassionate, societal, political and principled, and laced with the author's renowned humour, here is an extraordinary collection for extraordinary times and a reflective discourse on the mood of a nation. Paul Cookson is a poet for all seasons and all occasions. He's never going to let a worldwide pandemic curb his creativity. COVID-19 will give up before he does. This book takes you on a Corolla-Coaster of emotions, but don't worry - with Paul you are in safe and well washed hands. - Henry Normal; Paul somehow manages to season his cogent observations of COVID-19 with a dash of humour that makes you want to dip in again and again. He has you wishing you could drop in and join him for his daily cup of tea. - Valerie Bloom; Witty and wise, astute and acerbic, Paul Cookson and Chris Riddell are a dream team for these nightmarish times. - Tony Walsh
Chris Riddell's brilliant full-colour illustrated Alice's Adventures in Wonderland in a sumptuous hardback and jacketed edition. A perfect gift for families, children and all fans of this much-loved favourite classic. First published by Macmillan more than 150 years ago, Lewis Carroll's iconic story has been loved and enjoyed by generations of children. This edition presents Lewis Carroll's complete text, with illustrations from Costa Award- and Kate Greenaway Medal-winner Chris Riddell. Published 200 years after the birth of Alice's first illustrator, Sir John Tenniel, also the political cartoonist of his time, Chris Riddell's illustrations set a new bar in terms of excellence with his unique, rich and evocative interpretation of Carroll's world. With the curious, quick-witted Alice at its heart, readers will not only rediscover characters such as the charming White Rabbit, the formidable Queen of Hearts, the Mad Hatter and the grinning Cheshire Cat but will find fresh and wonderful creations of these characters by a true master of his art,; images that will live in our hearts and minds for generations to come.
With all the magic of Narnia and the humour of Mary Poppins, this is a future middle grade fantasy classic - and the beginning of an unforgettable journey... Imogen should be nice to her little sister Marie. She should be nice to her mum's boyfriend too. And she certainly shouldn't follow a strange silver moth through a door in a tree. But then... who does what they're told? Followed by Marie, Imogen finds herself falling into a magical kingdom where the two sisters are swept up in a thrilling race against time - helped by the spoiled prince of the kingdom, a dancing bear, a very grumpy hunter... and even the stars above them. Thrilling, sharply funny, and with characters you will fall in love with, A Clock of Stars is a timeless fantasy from an astonishing new voice.
A tousle-headed, snub-nosed, hearty, lovable ball of mischief, William Brown has been harassing his unfortunate family and delighting his hundreds of thousands of admirers since 1922. Part of the Macmillan Collector's Library; a series of stunning, clothbound, pocket sized classics with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover. This edition features original illustrations by Thomas Henry and a foreword by novelist, dramatist and screenwriter Roddy Doyle. Just William is Richmal Crompton's first book about the incorrigible William Brown. Follow his adventures from getting over a school teacher crush to a failed attempt at baby-sitting, and from throwing a wild party to meeting his faithful dog Jumble in this hilarious collection of stories.
From Children's Laureates Michael Rosen and Chris Riddell, the bestselling team behind A Great Big Cuddle, comes a first book of nursery rhymes. Flying pigs, wobbling plates of jelly and a giant who trembles whenever he meets a mouse: welcome to the topsy-turvy world of nursery rhymes. Inspired by his lifelong fascination with these peculiar poems, Michael Rosen has placed familiar playground songs alongside forgotten gems for a seminal new collection. Brought to vivid life by Chris Riddell's magnificent pictures, expect familiar faces, from little Jumping Joan to Miss Mary Mack - but also plenty of surprises... With forty rhymes to choose from, this book is sure to prove a bedtime favourite. Huggable and exuberant ... makes you want to smile and stomp to the rhythm. - The Sunday Times on A Great Big Cuddle
_'A massive compilation casting light not only upon the pain, suffering and sheer insanity of war, but also upon the unique comradeship and exhilaration of battle... this is a valuable addition to the literature of reference.'_ - The Spectator Peter Tsouras brings 4,000 years of military history to life through the words of more than 800 soldiers, commanders, military theorists and commentators on war. Quotes by diverse personalities - Napoleon, Machiavelli, Atat rk, 'Che' Guevara, Rommel, Julius Caesar, Wellington, Xenophon, Crazy Horse, Wallenstein, T.E. Lawrence, Saladin, Zhukov, Eisenhower and many more - sit side by side to build a comprehensive picture of war across the ages. Broken down into more then 480 categories, covering courage, danger, failure, leadership, luck, military intelligence, tactics, training, guerrilla warfare and victory, this definitive guide draws on the collected wisdom of those who have experienced war at every level. From the brutality and suffering of war, to the courage and camaraderie of soldiers, to the glory and exhilaration of battle, these quotes offer an insight into the turbulent history of warfare and the lives and deeds of great warriors.
One dark night, the music and singing wake a monster from a swamp ... Warrior after warrior comes to slay the monster, but no one can outwit Grendel. Only the great hero Beowulf stands a chance - but even he is not prepared for the horror that lies in wait.A stunning prose retelling of a Beowulf tale from an author-illustrator dream-team. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant or dyslexic readers aged 8+
They sought it with thimbles, they sought it with care; They pursued it with forks and hope; They threatened its life with a railway-share; They charmed it with smiles and soap. Lewis Carroll's magnificent nonsense poem The Hunting of the Snark features an unlikely cast of characters drawn from the Jabberwocky in Through the Looking Glass. This irresistible version is illustrated, and has an introduction by, Chris Riddell. This is a luxury edition with both black and white and colour artwork, ribbon marker and metallic blue sprayed edges. It was first published by Macmillan in 1876.
Prepare to be spellbound by Chris Riddell's dazzling full-colour illustrations in this stunning new collector's edition of The Tales of Beedle the Bard, J.K. Rowling's glorious fairytale classic. This beautiful, deluxe edition features an opulent page size and a pull-out double gatefold; intricate foiled artwork by Chris Riddell on the real cloth cover and slipcase; an exclusive print of Albus Dumbledore; and a luxurious ribbon marker and head and tail band. The ultimate must-have edition for any Potter fan, collector or bibliophile, it is set to become a firm favourite at bedtime in non-magical households the world over. Much loved by generations of witches and wizards since they first appeared in the fifteenth century, these five rollicking and mischievous tales are a deeply satisfying read in the tradition of all great fables and fairytales. Kindnesses are rewarded and selfishness shown to be the ruin of many a wizard. Burping cauldrons, hairy hearts and cackling stumps are met along the way. Translated from the runes by Hermione Granger, each of the tales is accompanied by a deliciously subversive and insightful commentary by Professor Albus Dumbledore, all brought vividly to life with Riddell's trademark wit and elegance. Former Waterstones Children's Laureate Chris Riddell is the only illustrator to have won the Kate Greenaway Medal three times, and is brought together here for the first time with one of the world's best loved storytellers in this magical new edition.The Tales of Beedle the Bard is published in aid of Lumos, an international children's charity founded in 2005 by J.K. Rowling.
A creative call to arms from the mind of Neil Gaiman, combining his extraordinary words with deft and striking illustrations by Chris Riddell. Art Matters will inspire its readers to seize the day in the name of art. 'Like a bedtime story for the rest of your life, this is a book to live by. At its core, it's about freeing ideas, shedding fear of failure, and learning that things can be different . ' - Institute of Imagination Be bold. Be rebellious. Choose art. It matters. Neil Gaiman once said that 'the world always seems brighter when you've just made something that wasn't there before'. This little book is the embodiment of that vision. Drawn together from speeches, poems and creative manifestos, Art Matters explores how reading, imagining and creating can change the world, and will be inspirational to young and old. What readers are saying about ART MATTERS 'A rallying cry for all artists and creators' 'Just the injection of positive thinking I needed' 'What a gorgeous, sweet and very, very wise little book' 'You don't know it yet, but it's likely you need this book' 'I feel artistically charged up for the first time in ages'
This uplifting collection from Chris Riddell and Paul Stewart's wonderful world of Rabbit and Hedgehog includes all four stories: Rabbit's Wish A Little Bit of Winter What Do You Remember? The Birthday Presents From birthdays to remembering games, from hibernation to wishes come true, Rabbit and Hedgehog's wonderful adventures have been brought together for the very first time in this exquisitely bound treasury. Filled with true friendship and adventure, these are tales to be enjoyed again or for the very first time. '...with gorgeous illustrations by the former children's laureate Chris Riddell... Perfect fodder for your little metaphysician' The Times 'Hedgehog and Rabbit are a winning pair.' Daily Telegraph
THE ILLUSTRATED EDITION OF MATT HAIG'S SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER Tom Hazard has a dangerous secret. He may look like an ordinary 41-year-old, but owing to a rare condition, he's been alive for centuries. From Elizabethan England to Jazz-Age Paris, from New York to the South Seas, Tom has seen a lot, and now craves an ordinary life. Always changing his identity to stay alive, Tom has the perfect cover - working as a history teacher at a London comprehensive. Here he can teach the kids about wars and witch hunts as if he'd never witnessed them first-hand. He can try to tame the past that is fast catching up with him. The only thing Tom must not do is fall in love. How to Stop Time is a wild and bittersweet story about losing and finding yourself, about the certainty of change and about the lifetimes it can take to really learn how to live. This special Illustrated Edition features over fifty enchanting line drawings by the award-winning artist Chris Riddell
Summer with Monika is an honest and touching portrait of a romance, charting the progress of a love affair from the delicious intimacy of the honeymoon, with the milk bottles turning to cheese on the doorstep, through the stage of quarrels, jealousy, recriminations and boredom, to the point where love is as nice as a cup of tea in bed. Re-issued for its 50th anniversary, Summer with Monika is a hidden gem of British love poetry featuring beautiful illustrations from Children's Laureate Chris Riddell.
I stared. At the small hissing nibbet, at its glowing green eyes. And I felt the hairs on the back of my neck - slowly, slowly - stand up on end. Every single one. Witchen Week is here, the best holiday of the year! Flo loves to go swimming in the bright blue seas around Kronebay. But dark secrets lurk beneath the surface, and Flo will face terrible dangers before the week is out. She fought off ghouls, she fought off the Haggfiend, but can she fight off the most horrifying creature of them all? The third in a funny, thoughtful series full of magic, monsters and environmental issues, with amazing incidental illustrations by Chris Riddell. A satirical, imaginative fantasy The Sunday Times
Lorina, a young schoolgirl, is led by a black rabbit through a wood to a magical land. There she finds a a race of green people, who are all overworked, starving and subjected to the toxic fumes billowing out of a nearby castle. She decides to gain access to the castle on behalf of the poor green people, and within its walls she meets the insiders , selfish creatures who hoard all the resources and treat the outsiders as slaves. Her quest leads her to encounter the bureaurat, the superviper, the farmadillo and, eventually, the awful Piggident himself. Wonderfully illustrated by Chris Riddell, The Castle of Inside Out is an unforgettable and hilarious tale of adventure, set in a world where injustice and arrogance are widespread and must be countered by its courageous and compassionate heroine.
Voyage to Lilliput, the first adventure in Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels, is illustrated by new Children's Laureate Chris Riddell. The first adventure of Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels - the voyage to Lilliput - is illustrated by Children's Laureate Chris Riddell in brilliant, panoramic detail. His pictures complement Martin Jenkins' skilful retelling which is witty and accessible while remaining faithful to the darkly comic tone of Swift, arguably the foremost prose satirist in the English language. Voyage to Lilliput is taken from Jenkins and Riddell's original hardback, Jonathan Swift's Gulliver, winner of the Kate Greenaway Medal.
The editions of Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book, Coraline and Fortunately, the Milk in this collector's edition box set are illustrated in trademark inspired, hilarious and moving style by acclaimed artist Chris Riddell, Children's Laureate and two-time winner of the Kate Greenaway Medal, among other awards and honours.
Things You Find in a Poet's Beard is a collection of poems that have been shouted at children at schools, bookshops and festivals across the country. Perhaps you'll want to annoy your family by reading them out; perhaps you'll want to chuckle at them under the covers with a torch; perhaps you'll want to stare at the drawings drawn by Mr Chris Riddell; or maybe you'll want to stand up and shout them in assembly to capture the spirit of A.F. Harrold himself. (Printed using Dyslexie font - the typeface for readers with dyslexia.)
Gargling with Jelly by Brian Patten, one of our best-loved poets. Hilarious, lyrical, outrageous and serious poems all rub shoulders in this collection. Naughty children with nasty habits, cartoon heroes that come to life, lonely caretakers, unhappy ghosts, fantastical creatures with crazy names, giants, goblins, vampires, mermaids ... there's never a dull moment in this marvellously quirky and refreshing jelly pot!
Everyone's favourite troublemaker, William Brown, is back. Now with a brand-new cover look illustrated by Chris Riddell this is a new edition of Just William, the very first collection of stories about a redoubtable boy who is always in one scrape or another, captures the spirit of the period in which it was originally published but also shows how timeless the hilarious collection of stories are too. Whether it's trying to arrange a marriage for his sister or taking a job as a boot boy as step one in his grand plan to run away, William manages to cause chaos wherever he goes. A Piece of Passion from the Editorial Director, Gaby Morgan - "I love William Brown, Richmal Crompton’s scruffy, incorrigible hero. I want to join his gang, the Outlaws, and roam about with Ginger, Henry and Douglas. He is very, very funny, and ninety-six years after his first appearance William is still delighting fans with his well-meant plans that always go awry, and his endless optimism. If William wants something he will find a way to make it happen and when things go wrong, as they always do, he will think of a way, however unconventional, of ‘sorting it out’. I am reassured and comforted by his long-suffering family. His forgiving mother and unimpressed father; his glamorous sister, Ethel, forever being courted by suitors; his uptight brother; his excellent dog, Jumble, and an endless supply of cousins and aunts. He has come to symbolize a particular vision of childhood – a scruffy, confident boy who spends his time outside planning and playing, leaving a trail of chaos and mayhem in his wake." In March 2010 our was Guest Editor Michael Foreman, he shares his memories of Just William: "When I was about eight years old I joined the Life Boys. The Life Boys were to the Boys' Brigade what the Wolf Cubs are to the Boy Scouts, only with better uniforms (little sailor suits.) One year, to raise funds, it was decided we should put on a production of Just William in the Church Hall. Unfortunately, I was given the role of Violet Elizabeth Bott! However, we all became 'William' fans. We identified with him - even though he was posher than us. He was wild and fiercely loyal to his gang members and followed by any stray dogs. Just like us." and in October 2011 Guest Editor Roddy Doyle also chose Just William as a favourite book. "A rough boy in a posh house – it’s a great combination. This book is both quietly and out-loud funny. William’s adventures are very funny, but his philosophy and outlook are hilarious and consistently direct; the adult world just can’t budge him. I loved William when I was a boy, and think I might like him even more today. All the world’s leaders should read JUST WILLIAM – quick!" 'Sue Townsend learned to read with Just William: I learned to read during the three weeks I was away from school with a spectacular case of mumps. (Mumps were mumps in the 1950s.) My mother went to a rummage sale and came back with a pile of William books written by Richmal Crompton, a person I assumed to be a man. I looked at the illustrations and laughed, then I tried to read the captions underneath these delightful scratchy drawings. My mother helped me out, and slowly and mysteriously the black squiggles turned into words which turned into sentences, which turned into stories. I could read. There should have been a 100-gun salute. The Red Arrows should have flown overhead. The night sky should have blazed with fireworks. I joined the library thirsting after more William books. I read one a day and then two a day,then I ran out and fumbled along the library shelves pulling out books at random. Nothing was ever as good as William, but the die was cast, I was addicted to print.' The Guardian
The bewitching tenth-anniversary edition of the classic children's novel Coraline by Neil Gaiman, featuring spellbinding illustrations from Chris Riddell and an exclusive new introduction by the author 'I was enthralled' - Philip Pullman There is something strange about Coraline's new home. It's not the mist, or the cat that always seems to be watching her, nor the signs of danger that Miss Spink and Miss Forcible, her new neighbours, read in the tea leaves. It's the other house - the one behind the old door in the drawing room. Another mother and father with black-button eyes and papery skin are waiting for Coraline to join them there. And they want her to stay with them. For ever. She knows that if she ventures through that door, she may never come back. This deliciously creepy, gripping novel is packed with glorious illustrations by Chris Riddell, and is guaranteed to delight and entrance readers of all ages.
Roger McGough's witty text offers many weird and wonderful explanations ... Chris Riddell's artwork makes the whole an imaginative feast - Bookseller Runner-up for the English Association 4-11 Award for the Best Children's Picture Book. Nominated for the Kate Greenaway Medal. From the minds of the former Children's Laureate Chris Ridell, and award-winning fellow of the Royal Society of Literature Roger McGough, comes a fun-filled book about how things work. Have you ever wondered how a toaster works? Or a fridge-freezer, or a washing-up machine? In this fun-filled book of how things work, Dudley, the techno-wizard dog, provides the answers. Roger McGough's delightfully ingenious text and Chris Riddell's striking illustrations take children from the furthest realms of fantasy into the fascinating world of technology to discover the workings of familiar machines, making it an exciting book which will delight again and again. At first, it describes how a child thinks things work... (gnomes in the toaster) and then Dudley tells you how the various household appliances really work. Includes all the appliances a curious child would be interested in: the dishwasher, the fridge-freezer and more. A funny, imaginative 'how things work' book for ages 4-7.
A simple story, about a small creature who does his best to join in with the others. But he's different. No matter how he tries, he just doesn't belong. Then Something turns up and wants to be friends. But Something Else isn't sure he's like him at all... Kathryn Cave's poignantly simple story is brought to life by Chris Riddell in this enchantingly original picture book - now reissued with a new cover look.
Prize winning illustrator and political cartoonist Chris Riddell combines his skills in his brilliant illustrations for Swift’s classic story and brings to life Swift's searing imagination in wonderful panoramic detail. He captures the magic of the tiny Lilliputians tying up a seemingly giant Gulliver, how the giants of Brobdingnag deal with a now tiny Gulliver and how the horses rule in the kingdom on the Houyhnhnms. The visual jokes will delight all ages. Martin Jenkins has skilfully adapted the original novel, remaining true to its tone and humour while making it accessible to younger readers. It is part of the Walker Illustrated Classics, a new series which brings together some of the best-loved stories ever told, illustrated by some of today's finest artists. These exquisitely designed books, with their magnificent words and glorious pictures, are a pleasure to read - and re-read. The classics have never looked so good. To view other titles in the Walker Illustrated Classics series go to our Classics genre and click the Illustrated tab.
Winner of the Carnegie Medal in 2010 and winner of Best Novel at the Hugo Awards 2009. 2009 winner of the prestigious Newbery Medal. Spooks galore in this brilliant and fantastic story of life in the graveyard. When Baby Bod escapes a murderer intent on killing his whole family, he is taken in by the graveyard ghosts. In eight chapters, each of which depicts every other year of Bod’s life, a separate story of Bod’s life unfolds and always in the background there is the sinister, haunting presence of a killer. Bod’s curious tale is a masterpiece of original, absorbing and unstoppable storytelling. In January 2009 Neil Gaiman won American's most prestigious children's fiction prize, the Newbery medal, for his novel The Graveyard Book. 27th January 2009 - Gaiman was asleep in bed in Los Angeles this morning when he was phoned by the award's committee and told he had won. 'You are on a speakerphone with at least 14 teachers and librarians and suchlike great, wise and good people, I thought. Do not start swearing like you did when you got the Hugo. This was a wise thing to think because otherwise huge, mighty and four-letter swears were gathering. I mean, that's what they're for,' Gaiman wrote on his blog after the call. Gaiman's The Graveyard book is the story of Nobody Owens, known to his friends as Bod, who lives in a graveyard and is raised by ghosts. The Newbery, which picks 'the most distinguished American children's book published the previous year', has been criticised in recent weeks for being out of touch with its readers; the choice of Gaiman - a perennial bestseller - as winner, puts paid to claims that the judges favoured books with a limited appeal. Named in honour of 18th-century British bookseller John Newbery, the award was founded in 1922, with previous winners including children's classics such as Hugh Lofting's The Voyages of Dr Dolittle, Madeline L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time and Lloyd Alexander's The High King. 'I might have imagined all of this, or they may have to do a sudden recount or something,' wrote Gaiman. 'But I think it probably happened. I mean, it's now 7:20am and I'm drinking tea and blinking happily at the world.'
A prize-winning edition of one of the best-loved stories in English literature. This magnificent edition of Jonathan Swift's classic adventure story contains all four of Gulliver's extraordinary voyages. Martin Jenkins has skilfully adapted the original novel, remaining true to its tone and humour while making it accessible to younger readers. Chris Riddell brings life to Swift's searing imagination in wonderful panoramic detail. Winner of the 2005 Kate Greenaway Medal and the 2005 National Literacy Association Wow! Award, and shortlisted for the British Book Design and Production Awards, 2005.
Fleeing from the ruins of New Undertown, Rook Barkwater and his colleagues - the librarian knights, Felix Lodd and his banderbear friends - must lead the escaping population to a new life in the Free Glades. But perils aplenty are ahead for the crowd - not to mention some goblins with plans of their own- A dramatic and exciting conclusion to the Rook Barkwater sequence that takes the reader on thrilling journey across the Edgeworld.
Good nine year old readers will relish the ‘real book’ feel of Corby Flood: the dust jacket opens out into a map, the chapters are short and each is exciting on its own and the illustrations provide even more detail to the wealth already provided in the text. And the story delivers, too. Corby Flood is a sharp-eyed girl who soon notices that all is not well on the creaky old ship S. S. Euphonia. There’s something sinister in the hold – and she has to find out what it is. Adventure, mystery and an interesting cast, these are the familiar hallmarks of Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell partnership.
Free Lance is down on his luck and stuck in the Badlands. And as usual there is an oaf who wants to take him on. But that fight leads to a job offer which has enough gold attached to it to get him out of this hole: the local lord wants him to recover an enchanted crown from the middle of the lake of skulls. Of course he omits to tell Free Lance of the terrors that await. Full of drama and humour, this swashbuckling fantasy adventure introduces a marvellous new hero by two of the leading exponents of the genre with an action hero who is both charismatic and mysterious, and told in a laconic, Marlowesque first person narrative. Certain to be enjoyed by all readers of THE EDGE CHRONICLES and Terry Pratchett, and those aspiring to read them. Part of a unique range of books aimed at 11+s that through integration of text and illustration are also accessible to those with reading abilities of as young as 8, produced in consultation with literacy consultant Wendy Cooling.
Free Lance has had a good season, and has earned the right to compete in a major tournment for the first time in a long while. Soon all the money is on him to win. But the Duke makes him an offer he cant refuse - to lose to his own man. Just to complicate things, the Duke's niece begs Free Lance to defeat her uncle's henchman to save her from a brutal marriage - Free Lance always had a soft spot for a damsel in distress. Caught between a rock and a hard place, has our hero bitten off more than he can chew? Full of drama and humour, this swashbuckling fantasy adventure by two of the leading exponents of the genre, sees the return of an action hero who is both charismatic and mysterious, and told in a laconic, Marlowesque first person narrative. Certain to be enjoyed by all readers of THE EDGE CHRONICLES and Terry Pratchett, and those aspiring to read them. Part of a unique range of books aimed at 11+s that through integration of text and illustration are also accessible to those with reading abilities of as young as 8, produced in consultation with literacy consultant Wendy Cooling.
When the goods train, laden with milk, honey, and rice, speeds away across land and sea, Angus is full of excitement as he stands beside the driver. But why won't the train stop for those who are hungry and thirsty? What can Angus do?
Hilarious, lyrical, outrageous and serious poems all rub shoulders in this collection. Naughty children with nasty habits, cartoon heroes that come to life, lonely caretakers, unhappy ghosts, fantastical creatures with crazy names, giants, goblins, vampires, mermaids ... there's never a dull moment in this marvellously quirky and refreshing brew!
Rabbit and Hedgehog are the best of friends, even though Rabbit is awake all day, but Hedgehog is only awake at night. Rabbit finds himself wishing that Hedgehog could stay up all day, just once. Will Rabbit's wish come true?
When Giant Baby finds a very small something lost in the woods, he only wants to help. He takes the Very Small home to meet his very big mummy and daddy and invites him to share his very big dinner and his very big bath. The Very Small is beginning to enjoy it all, until bedtime...Ages 9+.
It is autumn and time for Hedgehog's annual sleep. He asks Rabbit to save him a little bit of winter, so that when he wakes up he can see what it's like. But Rabbit is a forgetful animal. Will he keep his promise?
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