Great Books Guide 2025-26: for 11+

A humorous yet hard-hitting book about football, friendship and standing up for what’s right.

If people think you are bad news, what do you have to do to prove them wrong? And if they think you’re bad news regardless of what you do, what’s the point in trying to be better? 

14-year-old Fred lives a double life. In school he’s a nobody, a ghost. But online, from his gaming chair, Fred is Existor – a streamer with a massive following. Fred must balance his two personas while dealing with bullies and a tough home situation. 

A verse novel telling the story of Nate’s first year at secondary school. The sequel to The Final Year. 

Suspend disbelief and fly through a solar system where every moon, planet and star has its own dragon avatar to represent and protect it. A nerve-jangling sci-fi adventure that will take your breath away. 

Kyle bonds with his eccentric grandad over ashared passion for protecting wildlife in a local stream.This powerful book includes themes of illness and bullying but maintains an optimistic, humorous tone. 

Four teenagers embark on a mission to investigate the local legend of Blood-Eyed-Mary, the witch in the woods. Will they survive the night? 

A beautiful graphic novel exploring the restorative power of nature. 

Ayrton was stolen as a baby – and Stanley’s mysterious grandmother did it! But can they find her? A gripping story of family secrets and friendship.

13-year-old Gwen and her siblings move into a spooky house on a remote island. When a new childminder arrives, horrifying events unravel, and the children must face their fears to defeat her. 

Galaxy is going to be a star. But she might have to compromise if she’s in a band. A fun teen read. 

Can Kit and Hamza transport a turkey in a trolley across London, even though they’re not speaking to each other? Funny and real, with a dyslexia-friendly setting.