Books for Children
The Bletchley Riddle
A fabulous, clever and mature story for young readers about the wartime efforts at Bletchley Park.
Review date: 15.11.24
Age recommendation: 10+
Maisie vs Antarctica
A fun, action-packed adventure set in the icy, isolation of Antarctica.
Review date: 09.11.24
Age recommendation: 9+
Grumpfort
A funny, fast-paced monster hunt with wonderful illustrations throughout.
Review date: 07.11.24
Age recommendation: 8+
The Dictionary Story
Trying to find a story in the dictionary - tremendous!
Review date: 20.10.24
Age recommendation: 3+
On the wall
Finley intrigues his classmates and teachers alike with his calm composure. What's his secret? A wonderful story about being at peace with yourself.
Review date: 08.10.24
Age recommendation: 10+
Hot Dog
A beautifully simple, evocative tale of a hot summer's day, from the perspective of a small dog. Fantastic illustrations. Wonderful!
Review date: 08.10.24
Age recommendation: 3+
The Wild Robot
A wonderful heart-warming, life-affirming and thought-provoking story about nature and technology living in harmony!
Review date: 24.09.24
Age recommendation: 9+
Betty and the mysterious visitor
A charming story about plants and wildlife, and living alongside them both, beautifully illustrated by the incredible Emily Sutton.
Review date: 24.09.24
Age recommendation: 3+
The Girl who Couldn't Lie
When Priya wears the bangle left to her by her grandmother, she has to tell the truth. But it won't come off!
Review date: 09.09.24
Age recommendation: 9+
Here in the real world
A wonderful story of family and friendship, individuality and difference, beautifully and authentically told.
Review date: 04.09.24
Age recommendation: 9+
The Legend of Podkin One-Ear
A beautifully told story of rabbits in peril!
Review date: 30.08.24
Age recommendation: 9+
My especially weird week with Tess
Tess wants to get to know her father and has arranged a summer not to be forgotten, and Sam has come along too.
Review date: 15.08.24
Age recommendation: 9+
Almost Nothing Happened
A brilliantly funny, life-affirming, classy adventure set in Paris over a very hot weekend.
Review date: 06.08.24
Age recommendation: b
Nowhere Island
A brilliant adventure about survival and what it means to be family.
Review date: 27.07.24
Age recommendation: 9+
The Tree and the River
Winner of this year's Yoto Carnegie Prize for illustration, this is a remarkable and affecting time-lapse portrait of our impact on the world.
Review date: 10.07.24
Age recommendation: 3+
Elki is not my dog
A stray dog befriended by a group of children brings a community together and reminds us all about the importance of kindness.
Review date: 04.07.24
Age recommendation: 4+
The Smile Shop
Great illustrations for a story about kindness and sharing a smile.
Review date: 04.07.24
Age recommendation: 4+
Maisie Jones and the Dinosaur Bones
Inspired by the life of paleontologist Mary Anning, this is the story of fossil hunting told in rhyme.
Review date: 19.06.24
Age recommendation: 3+
Delta and the Lost City
In the shadow of Vesuvius, the wolf dog Delta has a race against time to save her family in 79 AD Pompeii.
Review date: 06.06.24
Age recommendation: 9+
Me and Aaron Ramsey
Sam and his dad both love football. But a tragic accident rocks the family, exposes their difficulties and threatens to rob them of their common bond.
Review date: 30.05.24
Age recommendation: 8+
Movies Showing Nowhere
Time travel through the movie screen brings healing to a young girl who has never known her mother.
Review date: 19.05.24
Age recommendation: 8+
Lie or Die
A tv reality show goes wrong in this shocking thriller for young adults.
Review date: 05.05.24
Age recommendation: 12+
Silence is not an option
A brilliant guide for young people to live their best lives.
Review date: 29.04.24
Age recommendation: 11+
Five children on the Western Front
A wonderful sequel to E. Nesbit's 'Five Children and It', set on the eve of the First World War.
Review date: 29.04.24
Age recommendation: 9+
Wild East
When tragedy hits, Ronnie's mum decides they should leave their home in London. There are different challenges in Norwich, but new opportunities too.
Review date: 20.04.24
Age recommendation: 12+
The Black Hole Cinema Club
Five friends settle in for a movie marathon at their local cinema, then a wave crashes out of the screen sweeping them into an epic adventure.
Review date: 20.04.24
Age recommendation: 9+
A drop of golden sun
Four children audition for parts in a new film - clearly inspired by 'The Sound of Music'! Wonderfully warm, uplifting and joyful!
Review date: 07.04.24
Age recommendation: 9+
The Clockwork Conspiracy
A brilliant adventure exploring time, power and politics, set in London, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament!
Review date: 07.04.24
Age recommendation: 9+
Rosa by Starlight
A wonderful, magical, uplifting tale of resourcefulness and courage. Fantastic!
Review date: 31.03.24
Age recommendation: 9+
The Wanderdays
An exciting new adventure series begins as Flo and Joseph search for their explorer Mum and discover climate crimes.
Review date: 31.03.24
Age recommendation: 9+
Bird Boy
An uplifting and moving story of a boy coping with grief and dislocation, who is helped to heal by rare birds, a wild landscape and a community.
Review date: 31.03.24
Age recommendation: 9+
The Jeweller's Apprentice
An animal fable about learning right and wrong.
Review date: 26.03.24
Age recommendation: 4+
The Swing
A very special meditation on how a particular place can mean so much to so many.
Review date: 21.03.24
Age recommendation: 4+
Sounds Good
A wonderful mix of fun illustrations and fascinating facts about musical instruments. Something here for all ages but aimed at 4-8 years.
Review date: 15.03.24
Age recommendation: 4+
No Ballet Shoes in Syria
A beautiful, life-affirming but ultimately troubling story of the plight of a family of refugees, and a girl who loves ballet.
Review date: 10.03.24
Age recommendation: 9+
The Day My Dog Got Famous
A warm, funny, big-hearted book about a boy who's good at drawing who has a dog who isn't good at tricks. And much more.
Review date: 02.03.24
Age recommendation: 7+
Digging for Victory
A brilliant story told in free verse exploring the challenges of wartime England. Who can be trusted? Who are the real heroes?
Review date: 25.02.24
Age recommendation: 9+
Snail in Space
This is a funny, rhyming story about a snail, Gail the Snail in fact, who has always wanted to go to space and how she manages to achieve it.
Review date: 18.02.24
Age recommendation: 3+
Christopher Nibble
A delightful story about a guinea pig with wonderful collage illustrations sharing messages about the environment and cultivation, suitable for children aged three upwards
Review date: 09.02.24
Age recommendation: 3+
Don't Hug Doug
A colourful rhyming picture book to introduce the theme of consent to young children!
Review date: 04.02.24
Age recommendation: 3+
Daisy and the Trouble with Space
In Daisy's latest exploits, we learn all about space in class projects, and also how it's best not to replicate the solar system on your bedroom ceiling.
Review date: 13.01.24
Age recommendation: 5+
A Mouse Called Julian
Wonderful illustrations, of course, and a lovely story about friendship.
Review date: 13.01.24
Age recommendation: 3+
Flora and Ulysses
A quirky story of family and friendship, a squirrel with superhero powers, poems and comic strip illustrations. Wonderful!
Review date: 28.12.23
Age recommendation: 9+
D is for Dog
Fabulous illustrations of funny and mischievous dogs frolicking through a rhyming alphabet of their favourite activities!
Review date: 17.12.23
Age recommendation: 2+
Foxlight
A wonderful tale of family, a quest, the natural world and the stories we tell ourselves.
Review date: 18.11.23
Age recommendation: 8+
Operation Nativity
A funny, heartwarming time slip adventure where children are tasked with saving Christmas.
Review date: 05.11.23
Age recommendation: 7+
Shadowhall Academy: Whispering Walls
A boarding school ghost story adventure - set in Suffolk!
Review date: 30.10.23
Age recommendation: 9+
Mouse and Mole Boo to the Who
On their latest adventures, Mouse and Mole go on a country walk, spook themselves in the dark and muse about the meaning of life over a bowl of soup!
Review date: 05.10.23
Age recommendation: 3+
Rhubarb Lemonade
A summer on a remote Swedish island is wonderfully atmospheric in this coming-of-age novel.
Review date: 05.10.23
Age recommendation: 12+
Peter the Cat's Little Book of Big Words
The latest from Gaspard the Fox and his friends, this time we learn new words from Peter the Cat. Brilliant!
Review date: 04.10.23
Age recommendation:
The Wrath of the Woolington Wyrm
A nostalgic, rural setting for a story about myths and legends, and a wyrm. Great central character in Mary-Kate.
Review date: 16.09.23
Age recommendation: 8+
The Final Year
A wonderfully warm and hopeful story told in verse, with beautiful illustrations. There are challenges but great characters too. Brilliant!
Review date: 16.09.23
Age recommendation: 8+
Island of Whispers
A gripping gothic thriller with magic, ghosts and a coming-of-age, beautifully illustrated.
Review date: 07.09.23
Age recommendation: 11+
Code Name Kingfisher
A beautifully told dual narrative with equally gripping stories of the present day issues facing a young girl at school and home, and wartime tragic events.
Review date: 04.09.23
Age recommendation: 9+
The boy at the top of the mountain
War is approaching and a young boy is sent to live with his aunt in a wealthy household on the top of a mountain. A challenging and poignant story.
Review date: 02.09.23
Age recommendation: 11+
The Snow Girl
A magical, wintery tale of relationships won and lost. Very special.
Review date: 24.08.23
Age recommendation: 8+
This Summer's Secrets
A wonderfully sultry coming-of-age mystery set in summers in Cornwall.
Review date: 24.08.23
Age recommendation: teen
Yours from the Tower
A nostalgic tale of three young women in 1896 returning to their very different lives after boarding school. Told in letters, with a modern slant.
Review date: 19.08.23
Age recommendation: 12+
Book Hospital
A fun and quirky story about looking after your books!
Review date: 11.08.23
Age recommendation: 3+
Worrybot
Josh has learnt ways to cope with his worrying, but then he has to move schools. A page turner which handles issues with fun and a light touch.
Review date: 11.08.23
Age recommendation: 9+
Polly Pecorino
Polly is a girl known for rescuing animals. When a bear cub is acquired by the local zoo, it's up to her to return him to his family in the wild wood.
Review date: 24.07.23
Age recommendation: 7+
Victor, the Wolf with Worries
A beautiful, gentle and reassuring story about how one particular wolf dealt with the things worrying him.
Review date: 18.07.23
Age recommendation: 3+
Friends and Traitors
A nostalgic story of boarding school capers, ghostly goings-on in a wartime setting, based on real events. Brilliant!
Review date: 06.07.23
Age recommendation: 9+
April's Garden
April and her mother have to move to temporary accommodation. Their story seeks to help all children dealing with a big life change.
Review date: 06.07.23
Age recommendation: 4+
The Koala Who Could
Kevin the koala doesn't like change, but his friends want to show him how much fun he could have by trying something new.
Review date: 06.07.23
Age recommendation: 3+
Julia Donaldson's Book of Names
The hugely successful, much-loved writer Julia Donaldson has signed a lot of books for children, and here she recalls some of their names - in rhyme.
Review date: 05.06.23
Age recommendation: 3+
The Magician's Daughter
A warm, wonderful story about magic, friendship and family and new beginnings.
Review date: 05.06.23
Age recommendation: 8+
An Adventure for Lia and the Lion
Vibrant colours and quirky illustrations in this tale about understanding and appreciating our differences, and making friends!
Review date: 05.06.23
Age recommendation: 3+
Peril in the Atlantic
The first in a new series of Mysteries at Sea, this is a fabulous adventure.
Review date: 29.05.23
Age recommendation: 8+
I, Spy: A Bletchley Park Mystery
A beautiful cover and a fabulous setting of Bletchley Park, this is a mystery adventure set at the start of World War II which is inspired by real events.
Review date: 22.05.23
Age recommendation: 9+
Molly and the Dolphins
Captivating illustrations make this picture book really come to life as Molly learns to sail and has adventures on the open sea.
Review date: 15.05.23
Age recommendation: 3+
If I were king
Thomas wants to escape his annoying family and wishes he could be king so that he can do exactly what he wants.
Review date: 07.05.23
Age recommendation: 3+
My Dad is a Tree
Trees stay outside all day long, so a little girl encourages her dad to join her in pretending to be trees!
Review date: 04.05.23
Age recommendation: 3+
Welcome to the world
A beautifully illustrated celebration in rhyme, introducing a new baby to the world.
Review date: 25.04.23
Age recommendation: 3+
I heard a bird
Bold illustrations and a simple, cheery story about listening and enjoying the natural world.
Review date: 25.04.23
Age recommendation: 3+
AdventureMice Otter Chaos
Pedro wants to have an adventure, and who better to help than the AdventureMice! A fun, lively story of courage and friendship with colourful, comical pictures throughout.
Review date: 11.04.23
Age recommendation: 5+
The Starlight Stables Gang
A lovely, upbeat, big hearted pony story.
Review date: 03.04.23
Age recommendation: 7+
Slow Down and Be Here Now
A beautiful and informative book to explore the natural world mindfully.
Review date: 03.04.23
Age recommendation: 6+
The Boy Who Made Monsters
A fabulous adventure in Scotland searching for Loch Ness with a young boy whose dealing with the monsters in his own tragic story. Amazingly funny and uplifting while also dealing with grief, loss and uncertainty.
Review date: 29.03.23
Age recommendation: 9+
Dick the Delightful Duck
He doesn't look very delightful on the cover, but this is about the day when Dick got out of bed the wrong side.
Review date: 23.03.23
Age recommendation: 3+
Saving Winslow
Louis has to care for a sick baby donkey, and learns lessons about love, loss, friendship and kindness.
Review date: 28.02.23
Age recommendation: 7+
Five Bears
A beautiful, deceptively simple but thought-provoking tale of strangers and friendship.
Review date: 24.02.23
Age recommendation: 3+
A spoonful of spying
Planes and motorbikes, couture and patisserie, models and spies - this book has it all! And it's set in Paris at the 1931 World Fair.
Review date: 12.02.23
Age recommendation: 8+
Mooncat and Me
A beautiful picture book about a huge cat and overcoming fear and anxiety.
Review date: 04.02.23
Age recommendation: 4+
Lizzy and the Cloud
A wonderfully whimsical tale of a girl and her cloud, and setting someone you love free!
Review date: 30.01.23
Age recommendation: 3+
The Station Cat
A haunting and moving tale of a station platform and how a kitten brings joy and hope.
Review date: 26.01.23
Age recommendation: 3+
Where The River Takes Us
A wonderfully nostalgic adventure, with the miners strikes of the 1970s as a backdrop.
Review date: 16.01.23
Age recommendation: 9+
You don't know what war is
The vivid and powerful diary of 12-year-old Yeva as she experiences the first twelve days of war in the Ukraine.
Review date: 16.01.23
Age recommendation: 11+
Pony
Powerfully atmospheric of the American west in the late 1800s just before the Civil War. It's about ghosts and mystery, friendship, loyalty, courage and grief.
Review date: 16.01.23
Age recommendation: 11+
Saving Neverland
A feminist, modern retelling of Peter Pan with Martha Pennydrop and her brother Scruff.
Review date: 03.01.23
Age recommendation: 9+
Murder at Snowfall
A gripping, sinister, snowy murder mystery!
Review date: 03.01.23
Age recommendation: 10+
Artichoke Hearts
All about life and death, friendship and culture - lots to unpeel!
Review date: 30.12.22
Age recommendation: 9+
Beyond the Frozen Horizon
An exciting and thought-provoking ecological adventure set in the Arctic.
Review date: 30.12.22
Age recommendation: 11
Midwinter Burning
A very moody time-slip novel set in Devon with evacuee Alfie learning about an ancient legend.
Review date: 30.12.22
Age recommendation: 9+
The Little Match Girl Strikes Back
A feminist reworking of the Hans Christian Anderson classic, this is brilliantly and sensitively done. Fantastic!
Review date: 30.11.22
Age recommendation: 7+
Jim's Spectacular Christmas
All about a very special dog who lives in the V&A Museum and helps deliver the very first Christmas card.
Review date: 30.11.22
Age recommendation: 4+
October, October
A beautiful, thoughtful and inventive read with owls and mudlarking, city and countryside, love and conflict. Brilliant!
Review date: 25.11.22
Age recommendation: 8+
Flying Scotsman
This is a simple, gentle tale with beautiful watercolour illustrations. A nostalgic picture book by a winning partnership.
Review date: 14.11.22
Age recommendation: 5+
Billie Swift Takes Flight
When Billie sees a plane crash into a field, her adventures begin. Wonderfully joyful and adventurous!
Review date: 06.11.22
Age recommendation: 9+
The baker by the sea
Inspired by the author's home in Lowestoft, this book recalls her grandfather's story as a baker in the beachside village. It's very lovely!
Review date: 20.10.22
Age recommendation: 4+
The boy and the mountain
A delightful picture book about art and walking, nature and animals, friendship and looking a little more deeply.
Review date: 20.10.22
Age recommendation: 3+
Resist
A wartime story inspired by the early life of Audrey Hepburn. Excellent!
Review date: 20.10.22
Age recommendation: 10+
It's only Stanley
A silly and affectionate story about inventiveness, imagination and family togetherness. Lovely!
Review date: 20.10.22
Age recommendation: 3+
The Ministry of Unladylike Activity
The first in a new series to follow on from the hugely popular Murder Most Unladylike series.
Review date: 12.10.22
Age recommendation: 8+
Goodbye Hobbs
The most beautiful illustrations and a charming and touching story about coping with grief and loss through two friends, the dogs called Merlin and Hobbs.
Review date: 11.10.22
Age recommendation: 3+
The Lost Pony of Riverdale
The start of a fabulous series of pony books about Poppy McKeever in her new home in Dartmoor, seeking to befriend a Connemara pony with a troubled past. Will she be able to claim him as her own?
Review date: 03.10.22
Age recommendation: 8+
Solo
A beautiful and funny picture book about dogs getting on together on an island!
Review date: 11.09.22
Age recommendation:
The Accidental Stowaway
An action-packed, nostalgic adventure with a contemporary feel, set on a steam liner crossing the Atlantic. Wonderful!
Review date: 15.08.22
Age recommendation: 8+
The Funny Life of Football
Silly and quirky, packed with useful and useless information about football, this is another gem from the children's comedian turned author.
Review date: 15.08.22
Age recommendation: 7+
Pebble
The sixth in a series of fabulous adventures set on the rivers and sea in East Anglia.
Review date: 01.08.22
Age recommendation: 7+
Peggy the Always Sorry Pigeon
Beautifully illustrated, amusing story about a pigeon who needs to stand up for herself.
Review date: 01.08.22
Age recommendation: 3+
Luna Loves Dance
Celebrating the joy of dance, culture and family in the latest story about Luna.
Review date: 11.07.22
Age recommendation: 3+
Seed
A fabulously fun adventure where Marty, his grandfather and his friend Gracie plant a seed and follow their dreams.
Review date: 04.06.22
Age recommendation: 8+
Escape to the River Sea
A wonderful nostalgic adventure in the Amazon rainforest, inspired by Eva Ibbotson's glorious book 'Journey to the River Sea'.
Review date: 04.06.22
Age recommendation: 8+
Ajay and the Mumbai Sun
Ajay longs to be a reporter, but he's a 13-year-old boy fending for himself in the slums of Mumbai. A story of ambition and determination.
Review date: 22.05.22
Age recommendation: 8+
Needle
A gripping and compelling drama touching on fostering and the criminal justice system, aimed at the early teen who is struggling with their reading.
Review date: 20.05.22
Age recommendation: 12+
Friends Like These
A wonderful summer read - a coming of age story set in New York in 1982. Beautifully sensual and atmospheric!
Review date: 10.05.22
Age recommendation: YA
There Once is a Queen
A personal perspective of the life of Queen Elizabeth II, beautifully illustrated, making a delightful keepsake for the Platinum Jubilee.
Review date: 10.05.22
Age recommendation: 5+
Brand New Boy
An entertaining page-turner of a read which explored themes of fitting in, difference, AI and what it is to be human. It's aimed at readers aged 9-12 years
Review date: 22.04.22
Age recommendation: 9+
The Secret of the Treasure Seekers
It's 1948. Treasure has been found on a farm near Ely, Cambridgeshire. This may be a significant archaeological find but all is not as it seems.
Review date: 05.04.22
Age recommendation: 8+
The Midnight Fair
The animals take over a funfair in the middle of the night. A beautiful picture book with no words.
Review date: 04.04.22
Age recommendation: 3-7 years
Mister Toots
What appears a fun and quirky tale about a strange creature on the doorstep has much to say about kindness, friendship and hospitality.
Review date: 21.03.22
Age recommendation: 3+
Too Much Stuff
A fun look at the consequences of accumulating too much clutter, as seen through the life of a family of magpies.
Review date: 21.03.22
Age recommendation: 3+
Shades of Scarlet
Scarlet is caught in the middle when her mum and dad decide to separate, but can she find a way to get them back together?
Review date: 20.03.22
Age recommendation: YA
Phyllis and Grace
This is a touching story of a young girl befriending her elderly neighbour who has Alzheimer's.
Review date: 19.03.22
Age recommendation: 3+
The Rollercoaster Boy
Todd and Laurie are on holiday with their Dad. The hotel is rundown and Dad isn't well, and then there are mysterious goings on!
Review date: 16.03.22
Age recommendation: 9+
Max Counts to a Million
A warm, funny, sensitive and uplifting story of one boy's lockdown, counting to a million!
Review date: 12.03.22
Age recommendation: 7+
The Duck Who Didn't Like Water
A beautiful and amusing tale of rain, holes in the roof, and unlikely friendships.
Review date: 27.02.22
Age recommendation: 3+
When the Sky Falls
An angry boy is forced to live through the second world war with the owner of a rundown zoo.
Review date: 18.02.22
Age recommendation: 9+
The Comet
Nyla has to leave her home in the countryside for a new life in the city, and she's struggling. Then a comet crashes through the streets and gives Nyla a chance to escape.
Review date: 11.02.22
Age recommendation: 3+
The Luckiest Kid in the World
When Joe Smith is identified as the most average kid in the country, he feels very special indeed. A funny adventure which makes some serious points about life today!
Review date: 11.02.22
Age recommendation: 8+
Small in the City
The city can be a noisy, busy, scary place when you're small. This is beautiful story about a physical and emotional uest has a heart-rending conclusion.
Review date: 07.02.22
Age recommendation: 3+
Has Anyone Seen Archie Ebbs?
Archie seems to have the perfect life and he's happy with school, friends and family, and his cat, Dinger. Then everything changes when Archie and his family lose their home.
Review date: 29.01.22
Age recommendation: 8+
The Summer We Turned Green
A funny but challenging story of climate change, activism and family.
Review date: 25.01.22
Age recommendation: 9+
The Blue Book of Nebo
A beautiful, haunting and life-affirming post-apocalyptic story of a mother and son learning to survive in their changed circumstances in rural Wales.
Review date: 18.01.22
Age recommendation: Teen
Aaron Slater Illustrator
This is the latest in the fabulous Questioneers series of fun and aspirational rhyming stories. Here we meet a young boy discovering the power of telling stories.
Review date: 08.01.22
Age recommendation: 5+
Breaking news
A fun, informative and interactive guide to coping with 24/7 news, tips on becoming a reporter, plus much more!
Review date: 28.12.21
Age recommendation: 8+
Lost
Beautiful, nostalgic, fun illustrations with a simple story of a relationship between a boy and his grandfather making the most of a grey, cold day.
Review date: 23.12.21
Age recommendation: 3+
The Hug
A beautiful, funny and clever book of two stories, a hedgehog in one then flip the book over to find out about tortoise in the other.
Review date: 23.12.21
Age recommendation: 3+
A song of gladness
A delightful and moving story of hope and celebration, written by the former children's laureate Michael Morpurgo with stunning illustrations by the award-winning Emily Gravett.
Review date: 23.12.21
Age recommendation: 3+
Einstein the Penguin
A wry, funny and charming story about a penguin on a mission - perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
Review date: 23.12.21
Age recommendation: 7+
Amber Undercover
This is a perfectly paced adventure, with great characters and topical issues, aimed at readers aged nine upwards.
Review date: 18.12.21
Age recommendation: 9+
The Bookshop Cat
The black cat loves reading and working in the town's bookshop is purrfect, but then disaster strikes.
Review date: 23.11.21
Age recommendation: 3+
Everyone Sang
A wonderful collection of more than a hundred poems, beautifully illustrated by Emily Sutton.
Review date: 05.11.21
Age recommendation: 6+
The Mermaid in the Millpond
A magical adventure set against the dark backdrop of the industrial revolution, this is a story of friendship, courage and loss.
Review date: 05.10.21
Age recommendation: 8+
How to help a hedgehog and protect a polar bear
A beautifully produced book which mixes education and inspiration with colourful, bold images. It's easy and fun to dip into, use as a reference guide, and to read from cover to cover.
Review date: 23.09.21
Age recommendation:
The Little Wooden Robot and the Log Princess
An offbeat, quirky fable about love, loyalty and courage by the 'Guardian' literary cartoonist.
Review date: 09.09.21
Age recommendation: 3-7
Swarm Rising
Humour, action and inventiveness with feisty and engaging characters, in a scientific, interplanetary, futuristic adventure.
Review date: 09.09.21
Age recommendation: 9+
Fight Like a Girl
A young woman copes with her troubled family life by taking up martial arts. The self-confidence it brings helps her to deal with the truth.
Review date: 09.09.21
Age recommendation: 14-18
Creature
This is a strange and wonderful picture book for young readers all about cats and the universe!
Review date: 09.09.21
Age recommendation: 3+
When I was a fairy
A touching story about magic and memories and the bond between a grandmother and her granddaughter, for readers aged three upwards.
Review date: 07.08.21
Age recommendation: 3+
Air Miles
A very moving story of new horizons and saying goodbye, with beautiful illustrations.
Review date: 07.08.21
Age recommendation: 3+
The woolly bear caterpillar
The brown, woolly caterpillar is crawling through the garden wondering about her future. What type of moth will she become?
Review date: 07.08.21
Age recommendation: 3+
About a song
A father and son get on a train together, plug in some music and are transported to different times and places. Full of bold, vibrant, fun illustrations, this is a simple but thought-provoking story.
Review date: 07.08.21
Age recommendation: 3+
Little Echo
A surprising and original story of Little Echo living alone in a cave! Subtle and poignant with unusual and distinctive illustrations. Rather lovely.
Review date: 27.07.21
Age recommendation: 3+
The Elephant in the Room
A touching and compelling story of friendship and separation, and the bond between animals and humans. Wonderful.
Review date: 27.07.21
Age recommendation: 8+
The Other Side of the Whale Road
From a sleepy Suffolk village, we're transported to the Dark Ages, the time of King Edmund and the threat of invasion. This is a time slip novel aimed at teenage readers, and I was gripped!
Review date: 15.06.21
Age recommendation: teen
How to be Brave
A beautiful cover, an intriguing title and a funny and inventive adventure, aimed at readers in middle grade, aged 9-12.
Review date: 03.06.21
Age recommendation: 9+
The Small Things
As Ellie is too ill to attend school, a robot takes her place in class, next to Anna. An inventive story of friendship and not being afraid to be who you are.
Review date: 03.06.21
Age recommendation: 8+
Mouse and Mole The Secret of Happiness
Three charming and amusing stories with beautiful and nostalgic illustrations. Rather lovely!
Review date: 22.05.21
Age recommendation: 3+
Peanut Jones and the Illustrated City
Peanut's father has gone missing but when she discovers a box of pencils he left her, she finds that she can draw images which come to life, including a door to the world in which her father has disappeared.
Review date: 17.05.21
Age recommendation: 9+
Noah's Gold
Stuck on an island with no mobile phones and when the internet is broken, they've run out of food and they've discovered treasure. What an adventure!
Review date: 13.05.21
Age recommendation: 8+
Show Us Who You Are
A fabulous, thought-provoking page-turner set in an imagined future where one young girl challenges the offer of artificial intelligence.
Review date: 19.04.21
Age recommendation: 10+
Weirdo
Wonderful illustrations by Magenta Fox for this story about Maud the guinea pig, who's considered a bit of a weirdo by the other pets.
Review date: 13.04.21
Age recommendation: 3+
Maria's Island
A beautiful, touching and life-affirming story of the people on Spinalonga, the former Greek leper colony, with a wonderful narrator and glorious illustrations throughout.
Review date: 03.04.21
Age recommendation: 8+
The Swallows' Flight
The stunning companion novel to 'The Skylarks' War'. Wonderful characters and a gripping and moving story of courage, resilience and friendship.
Review date: 02.04.21
Age recommendation: 9+
Mort the Meek and the Raven's Revenge
The first in a new series of very funny stories about the pacifist, vegetarian Mort the Meek who has to survive in a brutal and violent kingdom.
Review date: 02.04.21
Age recommendation: 8+
No! said Rabbit
A charming simple tale of a wilful, contrary young rabbit!
Review date: 27.03.21
Age recommendation: infant
By Ash, Oak and Thorn
A magical adventure introducing the Hidden Folk who give us a different perspective on the natural world.
Review date: 25.03.21
Age recommendation: 9+
The Boys
A beautifully illustrated story of a group of boys growing up together.
Review date: 22.03.21
Age recommendation: 4+
Gaspard's Foxtrot
Beautiful pictures illustrate the story of a bus trip through London with a fox, to enjoy a concert in the park.
Review date: 08.03.21
Age recommendation: 3+
Amari and the Night Brothers
Funny, clever and gripping adventure where Amari will do anything to try to find her missing brother.
Review date: 15.02.21
Age recommendation: 9+
The Weather Weaver
A fantastic adventure set in the Shetland Isles where the weather is magic!
Review date: 08.02.21
Age recommendation: 8+
The Boy Who Made Everyone Laugh
Billy wants to be a stand-up comic but he's got a stammer. It can take him a long time to get to the punchline. Wonderfully funny and affirming.
Review date: 05.02.21
Age recommendation: 8+
The Day the Screens Went Blank
How would we cope if all the technology stopped working? The world is in chaos and grandma is on her own at the other side of the country...
Review date: 03.02.21
Age recommendation: 8+
Space Oddity
A fun adventure which introduces science - though robots and alien life - to young readers.
Review date: 22.01.21
Age recommendation: 8+
Feelings
This beautiful peep-through board book combines mesmerising, colourful images with rhyming text to open up conversations about feelings.
Review date: 11.01.21
Age recommendation: 3+
How to be a Hero
Vikings, valkyries, gods, heroics, adventure and giggles. The first in a fun and action-packed trilogy.
Review date: 06.01.21
Age recommendation: 8+
The Closest Thing to Flying
Taking place in the present day as well as Victorian England, there are two heroines who between them experience illegal immigration, early days of the suffrage movement, formation of the RSPB, cycling, bullying, as well as friendship, courage and hope!
Review date: 06.01.21
Age recommendation: 8+
Just One of Those Days
It's been a bad day for the Bear family. Warm, cosy pictures are supported by a fun, rhythmic story which has a message for all to enjoy.
Review date: 27.12.20
Age recommendation: 3+
The Last Bear
There aren't meant to be any bears on Bear Island, and the only people living in this remote Arctic Circle landscape are April with her father, a scientist researching climate change. But April discovers that one weak, lonely polar bear has been left behind.
Review date: 27.12.20
Age recommendation: 8+
The House of One Hundred Clocks
A beautifully atmospheric and nostalgic tale where, whatever happens, the clocks must not stop!
Review date: 20.12.20
Age recommendation: 9+
Jumbo: The Most Famous Elephant Who Ever Lived
Beautiful illustrations support this true story of a baby elephant who makes the journey from Africa in 1860 to delight visitors to London Zoo and wow audiences of Barnum's show in New York.
Review date: 14.12.20
Age recommendation: 4+
The Blue Tit Travels Africa
A charming and amusing tale of the adventures of a blue tit meeting new friends and gaining in courage, with stunning and sophisticated illustrations.
Review date: 12.12.20
Age recommendation: 3+
When the World Was Ours
A powerful and heart-breaking story of Europe in the second world war, told through the perspective of three friends.
Review date: 12.12.20
Age recommendation: teen
The Time-travelling Caveman
A collection of quirky and inventive short stories from the late, great, storyteller, Terry Pratchett. Illustrated by Mark Beech.
Review date: 07.12.20
Age recommendation: 7+
Inch and Grub
Quite silly and rather funny while also presenting a serious message about competition and contentment.
Review date: 30.11.20
Age recommendation: 3+
Tiger, Tiger, Burning Bright
A beautiful book full of glorious poetry about animals, richly illustrated throughout.
Review date: 29.11.20
Age recommendation: 5+
The Highland Falcon Thief
A fun, nostalgic adventure with beautiful illustrations and clues to solve, on a royal steam train. What isn't there to like about this book for readers aged eight and above?!
Review date: 19.11.20
Age recommendation: 8+
Britannica All New Children's Encyclopedia
Fabulous facts collected by theme and bold, lively colour illustrations and photography throughout. Brilliant!
Review date: 10.11.20
Age recommendation: 7+
The Snowflake
A magical Christmas story about finding your place in the world, told from the perspective of a snowflake!
Review date: 04.11.20
Age recommendation: 3+
The Book of Hopes
A collection of short stories, poems and pictures from the very best children's authors and illustrators, to bring hope and happiness, and raise funds for the NHS Charities.
Review date: 04.11.20
Age recommendation: 5+
How to Be More Paddington
Wise words and beautiful pictures of the world according to Paddington Bear.
Review date: 04.11.20
Age recommendation: - all ages
Rosie Revere, Engineer
Quirky characters, fun pictures, a story told in rhyme with humour, wit and a great message.
Review date: 03.11.20
Age recommendation: 3+
The New Girl
Beautiful and haunting illustrations and poetic writing turn a powerful message about acceptance, difference and bullying into a magical story for children aged four and above.
Review date: 03.11.20
Age recommendation: 3+
What We'll Build
Rich in colour, emotion and hope for the future, this is a story of a father inviting his daughter to help him build a home for their life together.
Review date: 03.11.20
Age recommendation: 3+
The Hospital Dog
Told in rhyme with cheerful, lively illustrations, and a message of kindness, this is the story of Dot the Dalmatian who visits children in hospital.
Review date: 25.10.20
Age recommendation: 3+
The Misadventures of Frederick
This is a funny, silly and beautifully illustrated story about friendship, outdoor adventures and overcoming a fear of things that might go wrong!
Review date: 03.10.20
Age recommendation: 3+
Potkin and Stubbs
The first in a fabulous trilogy, introducing dynamic duo, Lil and Nedly as they seek to root out the sinister shenanigans in Peligan City.
Review date: 03.10.20
Age recommendation: 8+
The Skylarks' War
A beautiful, charming, amusing and poignant story of innocence in gloriously sunny holidays, and the stark realities of life and the tragedies of the First World War.
Review date: 03.10.20
Age recommendation: 8+
The Lost Spells
A book to cherish always - stunning illustrations, beautiful words to sing, recite and savour, and a gold ribbon to mark your page!
Review date: 29.09.20
Age recommendation: 6+
Bloom
A beautiful and surprising picture book with a powerful message.
Review date: 19.09.20
Age recommendation: 3+
Robin Hood: Hacking, Heists and Flaming Arrows
A fabulous modern interpretation of the myth of Robin Hood.
Review date: 05.09.20
Age recommendation: 11+
The Last Paper Crane
Mizuki's grandfather is sad and full of regret and guilt for a terrible episode in his past.
Review date: 27.08.20
Age recommendation: 13+
Shy Ones
A beautiful and funny picture book for young children, with a positive encouraging message.
Review date: 24.08.20
Age recommendation: 3+
Framed
A fun adventure set in Wales, inspired by real events during World War II when paintings held by the National Gallery were hidden in the mountains to keep them safe. Brilliant!
Review date: 17.08.20
Age recommendation: 7+
After the war
With WWII finally over, three boys are among 300 children who have been brought from Europe to the peace and safety of England's Lake District.
Review date: 12.08.20
Age recommendation: 8+
Clap When You Land
Two girls are united in grief as a plane crashes. An extraordinary book with a dual narrative in blank verse. For young adult readers.
Review date: 02.08.20
Age recommendation: Teen
The Unadoptables
A quirky, charming adventure following five children who have been abandoned, left in the hands of the cruel staff at the Little Tulip Orphanage.
Review date: 19.07.20
Age recommendation: 9+
The Soup Movement
A powerful message with engaging, resourceful characters. Loved it!
Review date: 05.07.20
Age recommendation: 9+
A Sky Painted Gold
A charming, magical, escapist summer read, particularly for anyone who loves the 1920s and the Cornish coast!
Review date: 22.06.20
Age recommendation: Teen
Cloudburst
A fabulous African adventure for older children from the master storyteller, Wilbur Smith, with Chris Wakling.
Review date: 28.05.20
Age recommendation: 11+
The Star Outside My Window
A beautifully told story of believing in a star, but with the backdrop of domestic abuse, grief and foster care.
Review date: 16.05.20
Age recommendation: 9+
Becoming Dinah
Coming-of-age road trip novel about identity, loss, friendship, fractured relationships - also described as a feminist take on 'Moby Dick'!
Review date: 29.04.20
Age recommendation: Teen
Gaspard the Fox
A beautiful story of the relationship between humans and animals in London streets, illustrated by James Mayhew.
Review date: 15.04.20
Age recommendation: 3+
The Guggenheim Mystery
Three children investigate an art theft and explore the streets of New York trying to find the answers. Funny, clever and great scene-setting, this is a fabulous follow-up to The London Eye Mystery by Siobhan Dowd.
Review date: 09.04.20
Age recommendation: 8+
The Great Godden
The story of one family, one summer, in a holiday home by the coast. A wonderful escapist coming-of-age read.
Review date: 09.04.20
Age recommendation: - teens
The Umbrella Mouse to the Rescue
Based on the true stories of heroic animals in the second world war, this is the sequel to The Umbrella Mouse. Beautiful illustrations and a powerful story for readers aged 8+.
Review date: 09.04.20
Age recommendation: 8+
Potkin and Stubbs - The Haunting of Peligan City
A return to Peligan City to meet our crusading investigators Lil Potkin and Nedly Stubbs, and it's darker and funnier than the first book!
Review date: 07.11.19
Age recommendation: 9+
Piglettes
A funny, uplifting, quirky and inspiring story of three girls who take a road trip to Paris to prove themselves after bullying at school.
Review date: 07.11.19
Age recommendation: Teen
The Sharp Edge of a Snow Flake
Social media influencers, investigative journalism, manipulation of the truth and murder, in Iceland. A thriller with two young women at its heart, taking on troubling contemporary themes.
Review date: 07.11.19
Age recommendation: Teenager
The Umbrella Mouse
A beautifully written animal adventure set in World War II, with tragedy and heroism in equal measure.
Review date: 30.04.19
Age recommendation: 9+
A Girl Called Justice
The first in a series of children's books by the writer of the best-selling Ruth Galloway novels, published in May 2019.
Review date: 07.04.19
Age recommendation: 9+
Potkin and Stubbs
A fabulous, inventive, funny, detective-ghost story which is the first of a trilogy. And what a great cover!
Review date: 23.03.19
Age recommendation: 9+
The Distance Between Me and the Cherry Tree
A charming, poignant tale of a young girl who is facing the loss of her sight.
Review date: 03.10.18
Age recommendation: 8+
Buried Crown
Set in wartime Suffolk, steeped in the myths of the Sutton Hoo finds, this is a story of friendship, courage, superstition and faith.
Review date: 25.09.18
Age recommendation: 8+
Boy 87
Prompted by news reports of children fleeing war and poverty, this is a powerful story of hope and friendship in terrible, terrifying circumstances.
Review date: 18.05.18
Age recommendation: 8+
Black Powder
A story of violence, cruelty and betrayal, while also celebrating courage, loyalty and friendship. Stunning!
Review date: 17.04.18
Age recommendation: 8+
Ghost Boys
A stunning book for young readers. Powerful, challenging and incredibly sad, as this explores racism in the US.
Review date: 10.02.18
Age recommendation: 9-13
The List of Real Things
Grace and Bee's parents have died suddenly and the two girls are dealing with their deaths very differently. A charming, beautiful and moving book, due to be published on 29 March 2018.
Review date: 07.02.18
Age recommendation: 9+
The Last Wild
Reading just one section of the book at a time for each week's discussion was tough. There was tension, humour and great characterisation in this imagined future of a corrupted world.
Review date: 31.01.18
Age recommendation: 9+
One
A moving and sensitive account of conjoined twins, told in verse. Amazing!
Review date: 11.10.17
Age recommendation: Young Adult
One Christmas Wish
A beautifully illustrated, charming story for all the family to enjoy at Christmas.
Review date: 09.10.17
Age recommendation: 5-8 years
Sky Hawk
A gripping read which is moving, uplifting and educational!
Review date: 28.02.16
Age recommendation: 8+
Mango and Bambang the Not-a-Pig
A funny and charming collection of linked stories, beautifully illustrated by Clara Vuillaumy.
Review date: 22.12.15
Age recommendation: 3+
Minus Me
Beautifully written adventure of a seriously ill 13-year-old girl - her coming of age as she faces death, with a twist.
Review date: 14.11.15
Age recommendation: 11+
Grrrrr!
Fun illustrations, rhyming text and a grrrrreat story!
Review date: 10.11.15
Age recommendation: 3+
Trash
Three boys living on a dumpsite make a discovery they have only dreamed about. But will it bring them a new and better life or destroy them? A stunning thriller.
Review date: 09.10.15
Age recommendation: 11+
Liquidator
When work experience goes out of control! A fantastic idea which has produced a gripping and ultimately uplifting thriller.
Review date: 06.10.15
Age recommendation: 11+
Longbow Girl
A thrilling adventure set in Wales with archery, adventure, time travel, romance and a strong female character.
Review date: 29.09.15
Age recommendation: 11+
Oliver and Patch
Combining chic and cute in beautiful illustrations with a touching and uplifting story.
Review date: 18.08.15
Age recommendation: 3+
How the Library (not the prince) Rescued Rapunzel
A silly modern take on the story of Rapunzel with a more positive message about girls and libraries!
Review date: 30.06.15
Age recommendation: 3+
The Astounding Broccoli Boy
Another funny adventure from this brilliant author, inspired by real events!
Review date: 18.05.15
Age recommendation: 9+
The Apple Tart of Hope
A beautiful, perfectly constructed, magical book about friendship and the importance of kindness.
Review date: 16.04.15
Age recommendation: 10+
The Rest of Us Just Live Here
Terrible things are happening in town, but Mikey and his friends just want a normal life. Published in August.
Review date: 07.04.15
Age recommendation: Teenager
Fire Colour One
A YA novel about troubled relationships, love, loyalty, deception and revenge, and art. Published in July.
Review date: 06.04.15
Age recommendation: 12+
Bears Don't Read
A funny, sweet, stimulating and colourful introduction to the adventure of reading a book
Review date: 01.04.15
Age recommendation: 3+
The Golden Plate
Delightful, traditional illustrations for a story with a powerful message.
Review date: 07.03.15
Age recommendation: 4+
The Winter Horses
A powerful, shocking and moving story of war and survival.
Review date: 10.02.15
Age recommendation: 9+
Snow Day
A beautifully illustrated book celebrating the magic that a snowy day brings.
Review date: 22.12.14
Age recommendation: 3+
William and the Missing Masterpiece
An amusing, colourful tale about a cat detective searching for the Mona Cheesa in Paris!
Review date: 12.11.14
Age recommendation: 3+
The Baking Life of Amelie Day
A teenage girl loves baking and plans to enter a national competition, but her illness looks set to get in the way.
Review date: 15.09.14
Age recommendation: 9+
Zeraffa Giraffa
With beautiful illustrations by Jane Ray, this is a real life fairy story.
Review date: 28.07.14
Age recommendation: 3+
We Were Liars
A beautiful, sensual account of family summers off Cape Cod, where a tragedy exposes this life of luxury and privilege.
Review date: 23.06.14
Age recommendation: YA
Jumping Jack
A funny story about a champion showjumper with quirky, colourful illustrations by Albertine
Review date: 16.06.14
Age recommendation: 3+
Broken Glass
A gripping and moving adventure about two brothers, set in the poverty of India.
Review date: 03.04.14
Age recommendation: 7+
Rosie Revere Engineer
Review date: 17.03.14
Age recommendation:
A Walk in London
A gentle story, retro illustrations, packed with detail and fascinating facts about London.
Review date: 17.02.14
Age recommendation: 4+
Never Ending
Surprising subject matter but beautifully pitched. Gripping and thought-provoking - how do we handle grief?
Review date: 20.01.14
Age recommendation: Teen
More Than This
A gripping thriller about a boy who thinks himself dead!
Review date: 16.12.13
Age recommendation: Teen
The Promise
An unusual and sophisticated picture book about making a difference.
Review date: 11.11.13
Age recommendation: 5+
The Day the Crayons Quit
Illustrated by Oliver Jeffers, this is a funny, quirky book containing letters from crayons to a little boy.
Review date: 17.10.13
Age recommendation: 3+
Between the Lines
For everyone who loves books, and wishes their favourite characters would come to life.
Review date: 29.07.13
Age recommendation: Teen
Split second
A bomb explodes in a city market and the lives of two teenagers are changed forever. An action-packed thriller.
Review date: 28.07.13
Age recommendation: Teen
Forbidden Friends
A holiday friendship fills two young girls with happiness and hope, but instead a dark secret threatens their future together.
Review date: 03.07.13
Age recommendation: 10+
One Dollar Horse
A feel-good story about overcoming the odds for a girl whose dream is to ride in the Badminton Horse Trials.
Review date: 21.05.13
Age recommendation: 11+
Back to Blackbrick
An astonishing book exploring Alzheimer's and time travel!
Review date: 30.03.13
Age recommendation: 10+
How Kirsty Jenkins Stole the Elephant
Bringing humour and adventure to a story which encompasses loyalty, the importance of keeping your word and bereavement.
Review date: 28.03.13
Age recommendation: 8+
Extra Yarn
A little girl loves knitting and with her endless supply of wool, she can supply the whole neighbourhood with colourful garments.
Review date: 25.03.13
Age recommendation: under 4
The Lucy Variations
A talented young pianist opts out of the competition circuit, alienating herself from her ambitious family, then looks again at what she wants from life. Published in May.
Review date: 11.03.13
Age recommendation: 13+
Little Miss Bronte Jane Eyre
Lovers of Charlotte Bronte's classic novel will not fail to be delighted by this clever, quirky board book, teaching children numbers 1 to 10.
Review date: 25.01.13
Age recommendation: 18 months upwards
Maggot Moon
A stunning, compelling story with so many layers and facets.
Review date: 14.01.13
Age recommendation: 11+
A World Between Us
Review date: 26.11.12
Age recommendation: Teenage
The High Street
A beautiful lift-the-flap picture book celebrating traditional town shops with a contemporary look.
Review date: 17.09.12
Age recommendation: 4
Pirate Gran Goes for Gold
A picture book which is great fun: lots to look at in the illustrations and plenty of giggles from the text
Review date: 09.07.12
Age recommendation: Under 5 years
Hero on a Bicycle
Review date: 22.05.12
Age recommendation: 10+
Noah Barleywater Runs Away
The book is a funny, magical modern fairy tale, and while there is a little bit of sadness, it is a story of hope.
Review date: 19.03.12
Age recommendation: 9+
Daylight Saving
A ghost story with 'issues' set at a woodland holiday complex.
Review date: 11.02.12
Age recommendation: 12+
Mockingbird
A fascinating and charming portrayal of a girl with Aspergers struggling to come to terms with tragedy.
Review date: 23.01.12
Age recommendation: 12+
Clara Button and the Magical Hat Day
Beautiful, detailed illustrations and a charming story set around the Victoria and Albert Museum and a visit to London.
Review date: 28.11.11
Age recommendation: 4-7
Between Shades of Gray
A moving and haunting fictionalised account of a young girl deported with her family from Lithuania to Siberia during the Second World War.
Review date: 26.11.11
Age recommendation: Teenage
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Flies Again
A sequel to the classic story written by Ian Fleming and turned into a film by Roald Dahl.
Review date: 11.10.11
Age recommendation: 8+
S.W.I.T.C.H. Beetle Blast
The adventures of twins Josh and Danny who, thanks to an experimental serum, turn into insects!
Review date: 27.09.11
Age recommendation: 6 - 8
Theodore Boone
Best-selling American author, John Grisham has written his first book for children with this tale of Theodore Boone, a 13-year-old who can't wait until he can become a lawyer.
Review date: 08.08.11
Age recommendation: 9+
Life: An Exploded Diagram
Review date: 20.06.11
Age recommendation: Teenage
The Truth about Celia Frost
We are introduced to Celia as she comes to realise that her life has been built on a lie.
Review date: 29.05.11
Age recommendation: 12+
Boys Don't Cry
Dante is listening out for the postman bringing his A level results. He's quietly confident and looking forward to university but when the doorbell rings, he's surprised to see an ex-girlfriend with a baby and life suddenly takes a completely different path.
Review date: 23.05.11
Age recommendation: Teenage
Gravenhunger
A ghost story for children set in a house inspired by Sutton Hoo, near Woodbridge, Suffolk.
Review date: 26.04.11
Age recommendation: 9+
The London Eye Mystery
Ted and Kat are waiting for their cousin, Salim to come off the London Eye. They've seen him get in, and watched his pod on its entire rotation, but when the doors open, he doesn't come out.
Review date: 10.04.11
Age recommendation: 7+
Flip
Fourteen-year-old Alex Gray wakes up one morning to discover he's not in his own bedroom. He goes downstairs to be greeted by a family he's never met before. And when he looks in the mirror, he doesn't recognise himself. How is it possible that Alex has become another boy - someone called Philip? And how have six months passed overnight?
Review date: 09.04.11
Age recommendation: 12+
Stan and Mabel
A dog and a cat, fed up with life in their block of flats, decide to follow a neighbour to Europe to hear her play in a music competition. Along the way they meet other animals who can play musical instruments and together they form an orchestra to appear at the competition themselves.
Review date: 24.01.11
Age recommendation: 3+
Cosmic
A group of children win a prize to go on a trip into space - but this is no theme park ride...
Review date:
Age recommendation: 7+
Millions
A family's dilemmas when they discover they have stumbled across millions of pounds.
Review date:
Age recommendation: 7+
There's a girl in the boy's bathroom
Bradley tells lies and his teachers refer him to a counsellor to deal with his behaviour problems.
Review date:
Age recommendation: 7+
That's Life, Lily
Disgruntled Lily imagines life without her parents, but what is real and what's not in her account of that summer?
Review date:
Age recommendation: 7+
Magical Moon Cat: Moonbeams and the Dream Cafe
Feel good, fun and magical story for girls
Review date:
Age recommendation: 7+
Ghost Knight
A beautifully illustrated but very sinister ghost story for children set around Salisbury Cathedral, published in October.
Review date:
Age recommendation: 8+
I Capture the Castle
This wonderful coming-of-age classic is set in a castle inspired by the ruins at Wingfield, near Eye, Suffolk.
Review date:
Age recommendation: teen
I Believe in Unicorns
Children gather around a model of a unicorn in their library to listen to stories, but one day tragedy strikes.
Review date:
Age recommendation: 7+
Jordan Stryker Bionic Agent
A massive explosion destroys the south of England, but one boy is saved and his damaged body is rebuilt.
Review date:
Age recommendation: 9+
My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece
James has just moved to the Lake District with his dad and his older sister, Jasmine. It is meant to be a fresh start for them all.
Review date:
Age recommendation: 11+
Being Billy
Billy lives in a care home. He is considered trouble because no one can touch him. He does what he wants, and he is full of anger. But Billy's younger brother and sister live in the home with him. They have known nothing else, and Billy will do anything to protect them.
Review date:
Age recommendation: 12+
