All sorts of heroes (older children)

This fascinating non-fiction picture book explores the life of an inspirational woman who overcame race and gender barriers to become an internationally acclaimed scientist. Straightforwardly and accessibly explained, with distinctive illustrations. 

Meet Pizazz – a superhero who hates her superpower! Sophy Henn’s new illustrated adventure aimed at younger to middle-primary school aged readers is perfect for fans of her previous series Bad Nana, with the same level of illustration and zany text throughout. 

Hector is a bully who reports an innocent homeless man to the police because he thinks he’s probably responsible for a spate of thefts – but when Hector discovers he’s got it wrong, he must race to restore justice.

This appealing, colourful book acknowledges the unsung heroes of our everyday lives, going above and beyond to help others behind the scenes. It also acts as an aspirational guide for kids who might not have considered some of these options as viable careers.

What if heroes weren’t always the strong and silent type? Vita Murrow brings the stars from some of our favourite stories into the modern day with this thought-provoking collection.

When faced with climate change, the biggest threat that our planet has ever confronted, it’s easy to feel as if there is nothing you can do. Luckily, Lily Dyu’s Earth Heroes is here to tell us different. It’s perfect for young activists in the making, aged 8 and up. 

This collection of 50 real-life tales from around the world spans a period of more than 75 years and spotlights the remarkable achievements, both on and off the pitch, of a variety of football heroes.

This wonderful celebration of a wide range of LGBTQ+ heroes – both famous and less well-known – is a beautiful book and highlights the lives of some truly inspirational people.

Telling the stories of twelve young activists inspiring change in their communities and around the world, this is a book to treasure and so too are the young people whose stories it contains. Celebrating young activists, in style, it will inform and inspire many more.

This collection of remarkable young people’s achievements is truly inspirational. With a gentle guide to being a hero yourself at the back of the book, and a look back at great children of the past, these amazing young people give us all hope for the future.

For as long as there have been wars, animals have been saving lives. So begins the short preface to this fascinating and heartwarming book, featuring 33 true stories of heroic animals in wartime.

This beautiful and eye-catching hardback celebrates a selection of black icons from history and the present day to inspire all children to discover what they can achieve. 

Hope has managed to convince her dad to switch to eco-friendly products to save the planet – but getting her sister to ditch her favourite over-packaged make-up is trickier. When Hope begins protesting outside the supermarket, she quickly attracts lots of media attention – but when she’s invited to meet the CEO, will she be able to make a difference?

This biography showcases the srength of Brazilian footballer Marta, both on and off the pitch, and should be compulsory reading for every girl. Marta’s steely determination will inspire young people to follow their passions, whether they feature a football or not.

15-year-old Fazal Khan signs up to serve in the Second World War. Based on true events.