Age 10 plus
The Nightmares
of Finnegan Quick
Larry Hayes
BY night, Finnegan Quick has horrible nightmares... by day, they come TRUE! If the joyful warmth of Christmas has left you longing for some fun with a decidedly chillier edge, dive head first into this super-cool, thrill-a-minute adventure, first of a scintillating new series from Larry Hayes, a children’s author with a gift for writing both comedy and horror stories. With a plot that grips from start to finish – and plenty of wisecracks to leaven the creeps – this supernatural stunner delivers grans, grins, gore, ghosts and a rare kind of Goblin Dream that cannot help but capture you in its nightmare loop!
Finn is haunted by nightmares. They are so bad that he’s
terrified of going to sleep... because Finn’s dreams change the waking world,
too. He has already lost his mum, his dad, his dog, even his shadow, and now
they are coming for his gran, the only family he’s got left. But then a
mysterious girl starts appearing in his dreams, helping Finn fight back against
the creatures in his nightly adventures. And on the first day of the new term,
she turns up at school, right there in real life, in the lunch queue! Cass
tells Finn that she has come to solve the mystery of Finn’s missing parents and
together with Finn’s geeky best friend Squid, they travel through the nightmare
world, battling goblins, ghosts and zombies. Finn, Cass and Squid prove to be a
sparky, wisecracking trio but even together, can they prove to be a match for
the creatures of the night? If Finn is to save the people he cares about most,
he has to remember the lesson his gran has been teaching him all his life. He
must learn to face his fears... or be destroyed by them!
Hayes, who has also performed stand-up comedy, was inspired
to write this gorgeously ghostly series after a strange happening in an old,
empty house in Ireland left him wondering what would happen if your dreams and
nightmares came true. The result was Finnegan Quick, the star of dream adventures
that are guaranteed to keep young horror fans turning the pages, turning the
lights on, and tossing and turning until Finn’s next escapade, The Fate of
Finnegan Quick, hits the shelves later this year!
(Bloomsbury Children’s Books, paperback, £7.99)
Explodapedia: The Brain
Ben Martynoga and Moose Allain
SCIENCE and the natural world certainly aren’t boring when you take lessons from the fun-filled pages of an amazing exploding encyclopedia! Explodapedia is a unique non-fiction science series from David Fickling Books which delivers everything you need to know... one book at a time. This exciting, innovative approach takes key topics and presents them in a way that is hugely entertaining and readable, whilst still providing reliable, serious, in-depth information that will help readers gain a true and lasting understanding of crucial subjects. Packed with accessible and funny cartoon illustrations, and superb double-page spreads which seamlessly integrate facts and art, these touchstone books are the work of Dr Ben Martynoga, a neuroscientist and science writer, and artist and cartoonist Moose Allain.
In Explodapedia: The Brain, this dynamic author and
illustrator team take an inspiring look at the human brain which, we learn, is
utterly unique. We have 180 billion brain cells which are constantly controlling
our bodies, grappling with world-changing ideas and predicting the future. They
keep us safe, curious and creative, whilst gifting us incredible powers of
memory and bamboozling brilliant imaginations. Readers meet the pioneer
scientists who first peered inside our skulls, explore how social media impacts
our mental health, and delve into other amazing brains... think
football-playing bees and octopuses which can talk with their skin! These richly detailed and thought-provoking books offer an
appealing and fully accessible way to learn about fascinating discoveries as
well as inspiring young readers to enjoy a lifelong love of science and nature.
The perfect way to maximise your understanding of our miraculous minds!
(David Fickling Books, paperback, £7.99)
Alex Neptune, Dragon Champion
David Owen and George Ermos
INDIANA Jones meets Pirates of the Caribbean in the fifth
and final ocean adventure of an epic treasure-hunting, puzzle-solving ocean
series from David Owen, the exciting author whose YA debut novel, Panther, was
longlisted for the Carnegie Medal. These thrilling, all-action and fun-filled
Alex Neptune books were inspired by Owen’s self-confessed love for nail-biting
heists, fantastical monsters and heartfelt friendships. Star of the show is Alex, the boy born with the power of the
ocean in his hands, and here he crosses swords again with his arch enemy, Brineblood
the pirate, who is back on the high seas with a dastardly plan... he’s going to
steal every drop of sea magic and use it to raise an all-powerful monster from
the bottom of the ocean. If Alex and his pals Zoey and Anil can’t stop him, the
monster will flood the entire world. Teaming up with the water dragon, they set
out in their home-made submarine to journey deep into places no human has been
before. But they have one crucial and very scary problem... Alex has lost his
magic. Can he still lead his crew to victory, or will Haven Bay – and the rest
of the world – be lost for good? With the power of the sea at its centre, this final,
fast-flowing story is awash with the weirdest cast of characters this side of
the tide, eco themes that speak as loudly as the crashing of the waves in Haven
Bay, and the fantastic illustrations of George Ermos. The perfect ending to a maritime odyssey which has become a must-read for all adventure
lovers!
(Usborne Publishing, paperback, £7.99)
Bunny vs Monkey: Bunny Bonanza!
Jamie Smart
MONKEY and the gang are on a hunt to find Bunny, after he
mysteriously disappeared... on their search they’ll be bamboozled by Old Bunny,
Neanderbunny, the mysterious Shadow Bunny and the always-confusing Not Bunny.
Will they ever find their faithful friend? It’s a rollicking race in this
cornucopia of chuckles! Buckle yourself in and get ready for an exciting rabbit
rumble! Yes, Bunny and Monkey are back in their exhilarating remastered series
which delivers all the comedy and chaos of the daffy duo’s helter-skelter
world! This outrageously funny ninth book in the super-popular series features an abundance of bunnies, 216
pages of fast and furry-ous exuberant fun, and a draw-it-yourself activity. Bunny and Monkey are part of the Phoenix Presents series,
published by David Fickling Books in partnership with The Phoenix comic, which
goes from strength to strength. And much of that success is due to the genius
of the extraordinarily talented illustrator Jamie Smart whose ingenious
comic-strip Bunny vs Monkey books create giant waves of laughter across a sea
of young readers. These manic, high-energy stories are perfectly created for
fidgety readers who like their books to come with plenty of comic-strip illustrations
and loads of snorts and sniggers. Madcap antics for action kids!
(David Fickling Books, paperback, £9.99)
The Island Vet: Devil Bird Island
Gill Lewis and Irina Avgustinovich
A NEW school and a new island home far away from the big
city have transformed Tia’s life... and when your mum is a vet anything can
happen! Acclaimed, award-winning children’s author and former vet Gill Lewis
works her special brand of animal magic on this inspirational illustrated
Island Vet series which follows Tia and her mother’s exciting new life on Gull
Haven Island. In this third conservation-themed adventure, a camping trip to
count puffins on Devil Bird Island turns into a real drama for Tia and her
friend Nat. First, they have to rescue a mysterious marine animal which has
been caught in a fishing net off the coast and swept very far from home. Then,
when it gets dark, they hear strange wailing and something white and ghostly
flies at their tent. Safely back home, they unravel the mysteries of the
previous night and learn some important lessons about how everyone on the
planet needs to look out for the wildlife around them. Teamed with the
beautifully emotive illustrations of Irina Avgustinovich, and published in
Barrington Stoke’s trademark dyslexia-friendly format, this heartwarming and
inspirational series is ideal for young animal lovers and is sure to delight
readers of every age.
(Barrington Stoke, paperback, £7.99)
The Bold Kitten
Holly Webb and Sophy Williams
MUCH-LOVED author Holly Webb is enchanting young readers
with the incredible 60th heartwarming adventure in her delightful
Animal Stories series which has sold hundreds of thousands of copies since the
first book hit the shelves in 2006. Webb has written over 100 adorable books
for youngsters. In this new story, we meet nine-year-old Hana and her family who
have recently fled Syria to stay with a boy called Oscar and his family in the
UK. Hana is confused and lonely when she first arrives... she doesn’t speak
much English and while her host family seem kind, she misses her friends back
home. Then Oscar introduces her to the litter of cats his family are fostering,
and Hana falls in love with the brave tortoiseshell kitten named Amal. The more
time Hana spends with Amal, the more confident she begins to feel until her mum
reveals that the kittens are ready to be adopted, including Amal. Hana doesn’t
want her to go... can she find a way for them to stay together? Sophy Williams
provides the gorgeous black and white illustrations for this beautifully created
adventure which is guaranteed to capture the heart of any child who can’t
resist the magic of animals!
(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £6.99)
The Moonlight Mystery Agency
Vashti Hardy and Agnes Saccani
JOIN a little girl and her detective cat on their mission to
solve the mystery of a bionic unicorn’s missing birthday cake in the first book
of a marvellously magical series from Blue Peter award-winning author Vashti
Hardy and illustrator Agnes Saccani. The Birthday Cake Thief launches The
Moonlight Mystery Agency series and is part of publisher Barrington Stoke’s
super-readable Little Gems series which comes with a host of clever design and
finishing techniques, like dyslexia-friendly fonts, to create easy-to-read,
first chapter books in a format ideal for little hands. So meet Hana who has
always longed to have a pet of her own. When a cat turns up at her bedroom
window one night, she thinks her dream has come true... but Ace is no ordinary
cat. He’s a detective cat who has come to invite Hana to work with the Moonlight
Mystery Agency! Join Hana and Ace on their magical adventure to solve the
mystery of Spark the bionic unicorn’s missing birthday cake. Wordsmith Hardy
conjures up her world-building magic while Saccani’s illustrations bring the
adorable characters and their fun-filled adventures to colourful life. Add on
some spot-the-difference fun and a maze puzzle inside the front and back
covers, and you have the perfect early reading package.
(Barrington Stoke, paperback, £6.99)
Amazing Baby
Alison Brown
AMAZING babies are EVERYWHERE... and here’s a picture book
that celebrates all the magic, mischief and heartwarming moments that a newborn
brings. Talented author and illustrator Alison Brown – who won hearts with her
gorgeous books Amazing Mum, Amazing Dad, Amazing Brother and Amazing Sister –
turns the spotlight on babies with another of her super-cute picture books. Babies
can be sleepy, noisy, adventurous, cuddly and so much more... and though they
can be hard work, there’s nothing better than seeing them grow. From late
nights and food fights to bathtime, nappy-changes and first steps, Brown’s
beautifully illustrated and exuberant rhyming romp – starring a whole host of
irresistible, relatable and quirky animal characters – is the ultimate
celebration of bouncing babies and their unique identities, likes and dislikes.
A joyful way to share new baby love... and perfect for new parents!
(Farshore, paperback, £7.99)
A Midsummer Night’s Drama
Louie Stowell and Isobel Lundie
WELCOME to a drama like no other at The Glade Theatre... a
special place where budding bards can hone their skills and discover that all
the world’s a stage! A Midsummer Night’s Drama is the first picture book in a
brilliantly creative Shakesbearean Tales series from the top team of children’s
author Louie Stowell and talented illustrator Isobel Lundie. These charming
books, based on Shakespeare’s plays, introduce a cast of lovable animal
characters and offer an endearing introduction to the world of theatre. So meet
star of the show Bill Bear who loves staging plays with his friends in their
woodland theatre. Bill writes brilliant plays for The Glade Theatre and his latest
play is a huge success, but then the problems start... Bill’s brain is so busy
that he just can’t sleep! Can his animal friends come up with a plan to get him
off to sleep? Stowell’s comical and clever story encapsulates the ups and downs
of dealing with drama of every kind while Lundie’s atmospheric and richly
detailed illustrations bring The Glade Theatre to life. Parents everywhere will
recognise the drama of getting an over-excited little bear off to dreamland
while the funny and reassuring story addresses some of the big emotions felt by
little ones. The second act can’t come soon enough!
(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £7.99)
Love is in the Little Things
Stella J Jones and Jane Massey
WHAT better way to celebrate the little ways we show our
love than a picture book brimming with warmth, kindness, friendship... and that
very special ‘aaah’ factor? Love is in the Little Things – a heart-melting
fusion of Stella J Jones’ beautiful words and Jane Massey’s emotive
illustrations – is the perfect gift book for parents welcoming home a new baby
or to share with a loved one on a memorable occasion. ‘Love is in the little
things. A kiss, a smile, a cup of tea. Just me and you sitting quietly. A song,
a hug, a helping hand that lifts us up so we can stand.’ Join Big and Small (a
cuddly bear and an adorable young child) as they journey through the moments
that make a relationship... from blowing bubbles in the bath and a goodnight
kiss to saying a heartfelt ‘sorry’ after a fight. Perfectly created for adults
to read and share with little ones, Jones’ gentle, rhythmic, reassuring
narrative inspires expressions of love and emotion, all brought to life by
Massey’s stunning artwork in enchanting pastel shades.
(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £7.99)
I Love You to the Moon and Back
Amelia Hepworth and Tim Warnes
AAAH… gifts for don’t come more special and genuinely
touching than this gorgeous picture book which celebrates the eternal and
loving relationship between parent and child. This is the third book in this
adorable series from top team author Amelia Hepworth and illustrator Tim Warnes
and comes packed with the same beautiful words, heartfelt emotions and
endearing illustrations. ‘I love to see the sun come up, and melt the winter
snow. I love to see your wonder as the spring shoots start to grow.’ As the
hope of spring turns into the warm days of midsummer, the story follows Big
Bear and Little Bear who share their love and gratitude for one another across
the seasons. Toddlers (and their parents) will love turning the pages of this
uplifting celebration of love and togetherness which was tailor made for
cuddling up close at bedtime!
(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £7.99)
My Path
Jana Curll
EVERY path is special. So choose yours... and keep going!
Making choices and deciding on the right path in life might seem like a
mountain to climb when you are a young child so help little ones to have
confidence in both themselves and their choices with this beautiful, empowering
picture book from Canadian author and illustrator Jana Curll. Featuring an
adorable snail as the star player, My Path invites readers to follow the snail’s
sparkly silver trail on every page and join its amazing adventures. Every
morning, the little snail sets off on its chosen path. There are mountains to
climb, rushing rivers to cross and, sometimes, when the path ahead seems
impossible, it needs to ask for help. But as long as it feels like the right path,
the determined snail keeps going! Youngsters will instantly recognise that the
adventurous snail decides not to follow the crowd and is ready to face
unexpected challenges. Filled with Curll’s stunning artwork, and the
distinctive silver trail, this inspiring and joyful journey helps little ones
understand that ANYONE can defy the odds and find their own unique way forward.
So choose your own special path... and just keep going!
(Nosy Crow, hardback, £12.99)
The Bed Book
Sylvia Plath and Cindy Wume
WHEN is a bed not just any old bed? When it’s a bed dreamed
up by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Sylvia Plath! Written for American-born
Plath’s own children, Frieda and Nicholas, this perfect bedtime read has been
created in picture book form for the first time and exquisitely illustrated in
full colour by Taiwan-based artist Cindy Wume. ‘A Tank Bed’s got cranks, And
wheels and cogs, And levers to pull, If you’re stuck in bogs. Or a
Jet-Propelled Bed, For visiting Mars, With mosquito nets, For the shooting
stars.’ Beds come in all shapes and sizes, and need not be boring beds at all. There
are submarine beds for nosing through water like a sardine, beds for fishing,
and jet-propelled beds that take you all the way to the stars. Playful,
comforting and bursting with imaginative power, this magical poem demonstrates
Plath’s eye for imagery and arresting language, and is brought to life by the
vibrant artwork of Wume who works in gouache, ink, dip-pen and coloured
pencils. Bedtime wind-down doesn’t get better than this!
(Faber Children’s Books, paperback, £7.99)
The Girls Book of Friendship
Lauren Ace and Jenny Løvlie
FRIENDS are for life, not just for childhood! Learn about
the joy, fun and beauty of friendship in this heartwarming and gorgeously
illustrated board book based on author Lauren Ace and illustrator Jenny
Løvlie’s award-winning picture book The Girls. Back in 2019, this partnership’s
extra special debut picture book packed a resonant and inspirational message
for youngsters just embarking on the adventure of life and this new format
carries the same empowering feminist message. ‘There is nothing better you can
have than a good friend, and nothing better you can be. Friends are the family
you choose for yourself.’ Follow four girls as they grow up together, celebrate
their differences, and embrace kindness, resilience and the courage to forge
their own unique paths in life. Løvlie’s lovingly imagined illustrations are
fresh and appealing and are the perfect match for Ace’s warm and wise words,
creating a stunning harmony between words and pictures, and a book sure to be
treasured by readers of any age.
(Little Tiger Press, board book, £7.99)
Croc’s Cooking Day
Nicola Kent
CAN you help a little Croc make some pancakes? Join Croc and
his friends Bear and Hippo as they get hands-on with some cooking in the second
adventure of an interactive Busy Chores for Little Paws board book series that
lets tiny tots playact grown-up tasks. Youngsters will love lifting flaps,
turning wheels and pulling and pushing sliders as they help the animals to
measure flour and milk, add the egg, mix the ingredients and finally toss the
pancakes! These charming and engaging hands-on introductions to familiar
household chores are the work of award-winning author and illustrator Nicola
Kent. So roll up your sleeves, turn up the gas and get your little ones ready
for some ‘cracking’ fun!
(Little Tiger Press, board book, £7.99)
