Books beginning with: B

• B is for Baby

  Author: Atinuke Illustrator: Angela Brooksbank
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Atinuke’s text is a series of simple ‘B is for…’ phrases, that take us on a journey through the African landscape. A clever and unusual book, with beautiful illustrations and a fun story that little children will delight in following.

• Baa Baa Black Sheep: Sing Along With Me!

  Author: Yu-Hsuan Huang
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  

  Baa Baa Black Sheep is part of the adorable Sing-Along board book series, which takes traditional songs and nursery rhymes and brings them to interactive life with sliders, tabs and QR codes to listen along online.

• Babies Can Sleep Anywhere

  Author: Lisa Wheeler Illustrator: Carolina Buzio
  Publisher: Abrams Appleseed
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Little ones will love learning about all the places that their favourite animals go to sleep... and the gentle rhymes will soon have them drifting into a deep slumber, too.

• Babies Laugh at Peekaboo

  Author: Dr Caspar Addyman Illustrator: Ania Simeone
  Publisher: Campbell Books
  

  Play baby’s favourite game of peekaboo with this adorable grab-and-pull board book.

• Baby Aliens Got My Teacher!

  Author: Pamela Butchart Illustrator: Thomas Flintham
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  Izzy's teacher has been taken over by aliens, and has an evil plan to make her class into aliens too.

• Baby Goes to Market

  Author: Atinuke Illustrator: Angela Brooksbank
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  With a basket balanced on her head and Baby strapped to her back, Mama embarks on an eventful trip to a West African market. With rhythmic text and an abundance of humour, this delightful book is sure to appeal. 

• Baby Loves Peekaboo!

  Author: Dorling Kindersley and Dawn Sirett
  Publisher: DK
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 0+

  Play peekaboo with your baby and hear them giggle in delight as hidden surprises are revealed!

• Baby on Board

  Author: Allan Ahlberg Illustrator: Emma Chichester Clark
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  A trip to the beach with his sisters and friends develops into an epic adventure for a baby and his three toys. Written by a master storyteller, the drama builds with each turn of the page. Charming watercolours, reminiscent of a bygone era, bring the characters to life.

• Baby on Board: Car

  Author: Seb Braun
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 0
  

  All aboard the baby car with this bright and chunky board book for little ones.

• Baby Play

  Author: Skye Silver
  Publisher: Barefoot Books
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  Babies love looking at pictures of other babies, so this well-designed book will definitely keep their attention, and the text has enough interest and interactive elements to make it useful in developing motor skills, bonding and play.

• Baby Ruby Bawled

  Author: Malaika Rose Stanley Illustrator: Ken Wilson-Max
  Publisher: Tamarind
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 7+

  Theo loves his baby sister Ruby who is happy as long as she is awake and being entertained. But Ruby simply will not sleep: not at nap time, not at bedtime, not at any time...

• Baby Shapes

  Author: Helen and Clive Dorman
  Publisher: The Children's Project
  Interest age: 6months+
  Reading age: 2+

  Four highly stimulating books featuring a range of shapes and facial expressions.

• Baby Sparkle: Bedtime

  Author: Dorling Kindersley
  Publisher: DK
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  This simple board book about settling down for the night is a perfect accompaniment to a regular bedtime routine for babies, especially as they can follow along with the glittery detailing.

• Baby Surprises!

  Author: Sarah Davis
  Publisher: DK
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 4+

  • This book is chunky and easy for little hands to hold.

  • Have fun together guessing what's behind each flap and getting a few surprises!

  • A bright and colourful book with photographs of every day images.

• Baby Touch Animals

  Author: N/A Illustrator: Lemon Ribbon Studio
  Publisher: Ladybird
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  The excellent Baby Touch series is a real feast for the senses for newborns, and is the perfect introduction to books for the tiniest fingers. Large tabs make turning the pages easier and the peekaboo animals are a nice touch.

• Baby Touch Flip-Flap book

  Author: Ladybird
  Publisher: Ladybird
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 3+

  Touch-and-feel book with colourful pictures to explore with your baby

• Baby Touch, Farm

  Author: Fiona Land
  Publisher: Ladybird
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 1+

  This is a great introduction to farm animals.

• Baby Touch: Busy Baby

  Author: Ladybird
  Publisher: Ladybird
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  With rounded corners, peep-holes and a range of textures, this is a stimulating book for little hands to explore and is sure to become a firm favourite.

• Baby Touch: Food

  Author: Ladybird Books Illustrator: Lemon Ribbon Studio
  Publisher: Ladybird
  Interest age: 1-3
  

  Whether it’s soft ice-cream, messy pasta or bobbly rice cakes, food to babies is all about texture and fun, and this bright and appealing touch-and-feel board book lets them explore without making a mess!

• Baby Touch: Happy Eid!

  Author: Illustrator: Lemon Ribbon Studio
  Publisher: Ladybird
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  A first words book introducing Eid with bright, irresistible touch-and-feel elements.

• Baby Touch: One! Two! Three! bath book

  Author: Ladybird
  Publisher: Ladybird
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 2+

  Padded, waterproof counting book for baby bath and meal times

• Baby Touch: Tummy Time

  Author: Ladybird
  Publisher: Ladybird
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  A colourful, three-dimensional book designed to stimulate and entertain babies during their daily tummy time sessions.

• Baby Young, Gifted and Black

  Author: Jamia Wilson Illustrator: Andrea Pippins
  Publisher: Wide Eyed Editions
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  This beautiful and aspirational board book presents babies and toddlers with 17 portraits of black icons, leaders and visionaries from history and the present day, combined with positive affirmation-type statements to instil a sense of confidence in little ones. 

• Baby, Sleepy Baby

  Author: Atinuke Illustrator: Angela Brooksbank
  Publisher: Walker
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  This soothing picture book lullaby celebrates the beautifully tender moments that families share with their sleepy babies at bedtime.

• Baby’s First Stories

  Author: Lily Murray Illustrator: Jane Foster
  Publisher: Templar Books
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  A charming board book for babies from birth to three months old. Great for encouraging the early bonding experiences between caregiver and baby that are so beneficial to babies’ early development.

• Baby’s Very First Play Book: shop words

  Author: Fiona Watt Illustrator: Stella Baggott
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 1-3
  

  Each colourful page in this lovely interactive book is bursting with new words and fun games to help young readers learn about different shops and what can be found within them. A great tool to help children learn new vocabulary.

• Baby's Bathtime

  Author: Fiona Watt Illustrator: Rachel Wells
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 4+

  Bold, colourful and great fun, this simple and striking book is a humorous depiction of one baby's bathtime routine.

• Baby's Day

  Author: Little Tiger Kids
  Publisher: Little Tiger Press
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 4+

  Colourful, rhyming board book with photos of happy babies.

• Baby's First Days: On the Move

  Author: Pat-a-Cake Illustrator: Mojca Dolinar
  Publisher: Pat-a-Cake
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  The visual black, white and red design of this lovely board book about transport will fascinate toddlers. It's been specially made with high contrasting colours and simple patterns to stimulate a baby's developing vision.

• Baby's First Words

  Author: Tessa Strickland and Kate DePalma Illustrator: Christiane Engel
  Publisher: Barefoot Books
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Designed by a child development expert so it supports the way babies naturally learn language, this book is full of warm colours and down-to-earth glimpses of family life. There are over 100 words to learn in this sturdy board book.

• Baby's Treasure Hunt

  Author: Priddy Books
  Publisher: Priddy Books
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 4+

• Baby's very first black and white book: Babies

  Author: Stella Baggott
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  Babies find it easier to focus on high-contrast, and black-and-white images. They also love looking at pictures of other babies... and this lovely board book does both things brilliantly.

• Baby's Very First Outdoors Book

  Author: Jenny Tyler Illustrator: Stella Baggot
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 3 months +
  Reading age: 4+

  An ideal first book, with familiar, easily identifiable images offering plenty of opportunity for interaction between adult and child.

• Back to Blackbrick

  Author: Sarah Moore Fitzgerald
  Publisher: Orion Children's Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 10+

  When Cosmo steps through the crumbling gates of the mysterious Blackbrick Abbey, he comes face to face with his Grandad as a young man.

• Bad Food: Game of Scones

  Author: Eric Luper Illustrator: Joe Whale
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  With pitched battles between hordes of cleaning supplies, killer library books and the contents of a giant fridge, it’s easy to get swept up in the action in this utterly bonkers, illustrated chapter book that’s written in the style of an epic war movie.

• Bad Girls

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Bitterly unhappy and fed up with being teased at school, Mandy White is in need of a friend.

• Bad Mermaids

  Author: Sibéal Pounder Illustrator: Jason Cockroft
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 7-11
  Reading age: 9-11

  Beattie, Mimi and Zelda will change the way you see mermaids forever as they attempt to save their home of Swirlyshell in this delightfully silly story from the author of Witch Wars.

• Bad Nana: All the Fun of the Fair

  Author: Sophy Henn
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  The fair has come to town, but when Bad Nana's nemesis Mrs Farquar-Haha rigs the pet competition, who knows what could happen? The second in Sophy Henn's bright and brilliant series about a subversive grandma.

• Bad Nana: Older Not Wiser

  Author: Sophy Henn
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children’s Books
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Bad Nana is quite unlike Jeanie’s other two grandmas. So when Jeanie and her class go on a school trip, it’s no surprise that Bad Nana manages to make it a lot more interesting than anyone expected. A riot of bright colour and laugh-out-loud moments.

• Bad Nana: That’s Snow Business

  Author: Sophy Henn
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  What happens when Bad Nana gets involved with the Winter Wonderland Variety Show? The third book in Sophy Henn’s young middle grade series is brilliant, and and the final message about having fun is pitch perfect. 

• Bad Panda

  Author: Swapna Haddow Illustrator: Sheena Dempsey
  Publisher: Faber & Faber
  Interest age: 8-11
  Reading age: 8+

  If being good gets you sent to a zoo thousands of miles from home, maybe being bad will get you sent back? Anyone who’s ever been cuddled, smooshed or had their hair mussed up one too many times will empathise with Lin, who is tired of being adorable.

• Bad Panda: The Cake Escape

  Author: Swapna Haddow Illustrator: Sheena Dempsey
  Publisher: Faber
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6-8

  Lin the panda must find her best friend Fu, who’s gone missing. Could a CHILD have captured him? There are many laughs to be had in this brilliantly illustrated, accessible story.

• Bad, Bad Cats

  Author: Roger McGough Illustrator: Lydia Monks
  Publisher: Puffin Books
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Packed with witty wordplay, and quirky humour, this delightful collection will appeal to children of all ages

• Badger's Parting Gifts

  Author: Susan Varley
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 7+

  When Badger dies, his friends are very sad, but one by one, they recall the special things he gave them during his lifetime. Now 35 years old, Badger's Parting Gifts has been used by countless families experiencing bereavement to help talk about their feelings.

• Badly Drawn Beth

  Author: Knife & Packer
  Publisher: Orchard
  Interest age: 8-12
  Reading age: 9+

  A comic/storybook crossover where hilarious heroine, Beth, charts her survival of school, friends (best and worst), the dreaded family barbecue and other natural disasters.

• Badly Drawn Beth – Happy Bethday!

  Author: Knife & Packer
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 8+

  Dive into this hilarious, school story, featuring embarrassing baby photos, famous film stars, angry zombies, brilliant best friends and lots of cake…

• Bake Me a Festive Story

  Author: Nadiya Hussain Illustrator: Clair Rossiter
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  The ever-popular Nadiya Hussain is back with her unique combination of storybook and cookbook – but this time, there's a festive twist! 

• Baker’s Magic

  Author: Diane Zahler
  Publisher: Capstone
  Interest age: 9-13
  Reading age: 9+

  An orphaned girl with a talent for baking must use courage, intelligence and just a little bit of magic to save her country from a wicked mage in this fantasy adventure for younger readers.

• Baller Boys

  Author: Venessa Taylor Illustrator: Kenneth Ghann
  Publisher: Hashtag Press
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  The big football trial to join All Cultures United is coming up, and football-crazy besties Shay and Frankie can't wait to join the team. But can their friendship survive when only one of them gets a spot?

• Ballerina Dreams

  Author: Michaela and Elaine DePrince Illustrator: Ella Okstad
  Publisher: Faber & Faber
  Interest age: 5-8
  Reading age: 6-8

  This heart-warming true story about working hard to achieve your dreams will inspire children to believe that they can be whoever they want to be.

• Ballet Bunnies: The Big Audition

  Author: Swapna Reddy Illustrator: Binny Talib
  Publisher: Oxford
  Interest age: 5-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Can Millie overcome her self-doubt and audition for a chance to appear on her favourite TV show? A small-format first chapter book perfect for youngsters who love ballet, bunnies or magical storytelling.

• Ballet Bunnies: The Lost Slipper

  Author: Swapna Reddy Illustrator: Binny Talib
  Publisher: Oxford
  Interest age: 5-8
  Reading age: 6+

  When Millie loses her shoe at the theatre, just like Cinderella, a little magical input helps get them back. A charming tale of ballet, theatre and a touch of magic for newly independent readers.

• Ballet Dreams

  Author: Cerrie Burnell Illustrator: Laura Ellen Anderson
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  One day, a little girl sees the ballet practice for Swan Lake, and decides that all she wants is to become a ballerina. A sparkly, magical book for young dancers, this is the perfect precursor to Noel Streatfield's Ballet Shoes.

• Ballet Shoes

  Author: Noel Streatfeild
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9+

  First published in the 1930s, this classic story of three very different girls who work hard to master their talents has captivated children's imaginations for decades

• Balloon to the Moon: The Story of the Human Journey to Space

  Author: Gill Arbuthnott Illustrator: Christopher Nielsen
  Publisher: Big Picture Press
  Interest age: 7-11
  Reading age: 8+

  This is a clear and fascinating route through time in the evolution of the human desire to fly, and then explore space, presented in 13 page-turning chapters. Christopher Nielsen’s fabulous retro screen print-style illustration also elevate the whole thing to a work of art. 

• Banana Sunday

  Author: Paul Tobin Illustrator: Colleen Coover
  Publisher: Oni Press
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9+

  Fitting into a new school isn’t easy, as Kirby discovers. This full-colour graphic novel in a school setting has an intriguing mystery and a trio of wacky, talking primates, which wittily explores "otherness" in a number of ways. 

• Banana!

  Author: Ed Vere Illustrator: Ed Vere
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 5+

  Follow the cartoon-style adventures of two monkeys. One of them has a banana and the other one wants it - but what is the magic word?

• Bandoola: The Great Elephant Rescue

  Author: William Grill
  Publisher: Flying Eye Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  William Grill’s stunning depiction of a deeply inspiring story of kindness and bravery might be his best book yet. It tells the remarkable story of one of the bravest escape missions in history: a man who tried to move an entire elephant sanctuary and its workers through Myanmar and out of a war zone. 

• Bang, Bang, You're Dead!

  Author: Narinder Dhami
  Publisher: Corgi
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Dhami's thriller takes us from a dysfunctional home, where twins Mia and Jamie live with their divorced mother – who has bipolar disorder – to a school siege in which a pupil holds a class hostage. Compelling.

• Barakah Beats

  Author: Maleeha Siddiqui
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Nimra battles to understand her interpretation of Islam and whether it allows her to sing in a band or not. It is refreshing to find a book written by an author who understands the complexity of relationships between three generations from a Muslim immigrant heritage. 

• Barb the Brave

  Author: Dan Abdo and Jason Patterson
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 9-13
  Reading age: 9+

  As the monster war rages on in Bailiwick, only the warrior Berserkers stand between monsters and humans. But when the Beserkers are captured by the cunning Witchhead in a plot to get his hands on the all-powerful Shadow Blade, only Barb manages to escape – with the Shadow Blade itself. Now Barb must traverse the country to seek the help of the Northern Zerks…

• Barbara Throws A Wobbler

  Author: Nadia Shireen
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Nadia Shireen’s brilliant book about temper tantrums is a definite must-have for any parents of 3-5 year olds who may have had a wobbler or two. As ever, Shireen’s humour and empathy with little ones shines through.

• Barefoot on the Wind

  Author: Zoe Marriott
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  This stylish reworking of Beauty and the Beast unfolds in mythical Japan. Beautiful visual imagery, viscerally brutal action and desperate passions make this retelling feel fresh.

• Barking for Bagels

  Author: Michael Rosen Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  A quirky canine adventure from master storyteller Michael Rosen, complemented by Tony Ross's trademark comical illustrations, this is a lovely early chapter book for 6-8 year olds, sure to amuse adults and children alike.

• Barnaby Grimes: Curse of the Night Wolf

  Author: Paul Stewart Illustrator: Chris Riddell
  Publisher: Corgi
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  Barnaby Grimes: Curse of the Night Wolf introduces readers to the most adventurous and skilled among the ranks of Tick-Tock Lads. For the proper coinage these delivery boys can whisk a message to its destination in a matter of minutes, taking to the rooftops and leaping with acrobatic ease from chimney to shingle, alley to thoroughfare.

• Barnaby Grimes: Legion of the Dead

  Author: Paul Stewart Illustrator: Chris Riddell
  Publisher: Corgi
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  This booksees the return of the most adventurous and skilled among the ranks of Tick-Tock Lads. During a night of mourning at the passing of one of the city's most notorious criminal, a shaky peace among rival gangs is disturbed as the dead begin to rise from a nearby cemetery.

• Barnaby Grimes: Return of the Emerald Skull

  Author: Paul Stewart Illustrator: Chris Riddell
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  Barnaby Grimes tackles the evil of the Emerald Skull as he tries to save the local school from madness and destruction.

• Barney the Boat Dog: Very Brave Dog

  Author: Linda Newbery Illustrator: John Francis
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  One day Barney the dog gets left behind on land when his owner Jim sets off into a tunnel. He has to find a way back to Jim, which involves being very brave.

• Barry Loser is the Best at Football NOT!

  Author: Jim Smith
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 7-10
  Reading age: 7+

  When the posh kids from Avocado Hill challenge the Mogden Maniacs to a football match, Barry Loser decides to get his team into shape - but whether they'll pay any attention is another matter. More LOL-worthy stuff from the popular series.

• Barry Loser: I am not a Loser

  Author: Jim Smith
  Publisher: Jelly Pie
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 7+

  With lots of silly pranks and a cartoon-style drawing on each page, this book will appeal to fans of Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

• Barry the Fish with Fingers and the Hairy Scary Monster

  Author: Sue Hendra
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Books
  

  A simple and humorous story about overcoming your fears with bold, bright illustrations

• Bartimaeus: The Ring of Solomon

  Author: Jonathan Stroud
  Publisher: Doubleday Children's Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  A fantastic, fast-paced adventure story set in a vividly-realised world of Arabian and Biblical myth.

• Bathe the Cat

  Author: Alice B. McGinty Illustrator: David Roberts
  Publisher: Chronicle Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  This enormously entertaining tale will be a big hit with cat lovers and is sure to strike a chord with any family who has gone into frantic overdrive when tidying up for a visitor.

• Bathroom Boogie

  Author: Clare Foges Illustrator: Al Murphy
  Publisher: Faber & Faber
  Interest age: 4-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Bathtime gets boisterous when no-one’s at home: flannels, toothbrushes, loofahs and even the power shower boogie the day away to DJ shampoo’s groovy beat! A cracking comical story for young children, for whom bathtime will never be the same again…

• Bathtime for Little Rabbit

  Author: Jörg Mühle Illustrator: Eve Erikson Translator: Catherine Chidgey
  Publisher: Gecko Press
  Interest age: 1-3
  

  It's Little Rabbit's bathtime, but he's going to need some help! Everything about this book is deliciously simple and sweet. Since it's lightly interactive, it's also a nice way to give control back to the child if the bedtime routine is becoming another battle.

• Bathtime peekaboo!

  Author: Dawn Sirett and Dorling Kindersley
  Publisher: DK
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 1+

  The Dorling Kindersley team have put together this colourful, waterproof, touch-and-feel, lift-the-flap, fun bathtime book to be shared with your baby.

• Batmouse

  Author: Steve Smallman
  Publisher: QED Publishing
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  An endearing story about an imaginative mouse with identity problems!

• Batpants!

  Author: Jeremy Strong
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  Short chapters, easy-to-read text and funny illustrations will appeal to children who will find plenty of laughs in the story of an orang-utan who lives with the Loveheart family and loves eating apple crumble!

• Bats

  Author: Megan Cullis
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 4+

  How do bats find their way in the dark? Where do they live and what do they eat? Beginner readers can find answers to these questions and more in this colourful information book.

• Battle of the Beetles

  Author: M G Leonard Illustrator: Karl James Mountford
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 10-12
  Reading age: 10-12

  This explosive series finale has some great humour from the cringe-worthy Humphrey and Pickering, along with moral dilemmas, a strong environmental theme, buckets of adventure and great friendships.

• Be Brave, Little Penguin

  Author: Giles Andreae Illustrator: Guy Parker-Rees
  Publisher: Hachette
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  All the penguins love playing in the sea, but Little Pip-Pip is scared! While the other penguins tease him, Little Pip-Pip's mum takes time to listen to his fears and understand him - and before he knows it, his worries have melted away. A lovely reassuring book about accepting our emotions.

• Be Kind

  Author: Pat Zietlow Miller Illustrator: Jen Hill
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Tanisha is so embarrassed when she spills grape juice on her dress at school, but the little girl telling the story thinks of lots of ways she can show kindness to someone in trouble. A wonderful picture book that reminds us that being kind is one of the simplest and most profound things we can do.

• Be More Bernard

  Author: Simon Philip Illustrator: Kate Hindley
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Bernard has decided that he's not going to be like all the other bunnies any more. His dreams are altogether more... disco! This is a funny and fabulous picture book that will coax children out of their shells and encourage them to stand out from the crowd. 

• Be Nice to Aunt Emma

  Author: Anne Fine Illustrator: Gareth Conway
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 8-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Tansy finds her Aunt Emma really annoying – and she's due another visit soon. A charming tale that explores complex family dynamics in a light-hearted way. This dyslexia-friendly book is edited to a reading age of eight. 

• Be Plastic Clever

  Author: Amy and Ella Meek
  Publisher: DK
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  An empowering book by the founders of Kids Fight Plastic on how we can live a more eco-friendly lifestyle and reduce our everyday plastic use.

• Beaky Malone: World's Worst School Trip

  Author: Barry Hutchison Illustrator: Katie Abey
  Publisher: Stripes Publishing
  Interest age: 8-11
  Reading age: 8+

  After stepping through a truth-telling machine, Beaky Malone finds himself in all sorts of trouble. With comical illustrations, short chapters and hilarity on every page, this riotous book is ideal for independent young readers.

• Bear and Bird: The Picnic and Other Stories

  Author: Jarvis
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 5+

  Bear and Bird are best friends, and, like many friends, sometimes one or the other of them makes a mistake or gets cross or jealous of the other. Luckily, though, they’re good enough friends to get past any hiccups or mishaps they might encounter, and get on with the important stuff: enjoying each other’s company and being a bit silly, now and again.

  ---

  Llyfr …

• Bear and Hare - Where's Bear?

  Author: Emily Gravett Illustrator: Emily Gravett
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 2+

  Hare gets worried when Bear goes missing during a game of hide and seek.

• Bear Has a Story to Tell

  Author: Philip C. Stead Illustrator: Erin E. Stead
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  It is almost winter, and Bear is getting sleepy. Before he finds somewhere to hibernate he has a story to tell but all the animals are too busy getting ready for winter to listen.

• Bear in Sunshine

  Author: Stella Blackstone Illustrator: Debbie Harter
  Publisher: Barefoot Books
  

  • This is an entertaining introduction to the seasons, with bright illustrations

  • The rhyme and humour make this book a great success

  • Look out for the other Bear books in the series

• Bear Moves

  Author: Ben Bailey Smith Illustrator: Sav Akyüz
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Ben Bailey Smith (aka “Doc Brown”) and Sav Akyüz team up again to deliver this hilariously funny sequel to I Am Bear. Its energetic and colourful illustrations and superb rhythmic text will keep readers in stitches from start to finish.

• Bear on a Bike

  Author: Hannah Shaw
  Publisher: Scholastic (Alison Green Books)
  Interest age: 1-4
  

  Bear has made a cake for Mouse. But just as he arrives at Mouse’s door, he sees Mouse disappearing around the corner on his scooter. Determined to deliver his cake, Bear chases after her. This is great fun and just a little bit wacky.

• Bear Shaped

  Author: Dawn Coulter-Cruttenden
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 2-6
  

  This beautiful picture book is based on the true story of a family’s public search for a missing toy. The Jack of the illustrations are utterly convincing, a testimony to the fact that the illustrator worked so closely with the ‘real’ Jack (who happens to be on the autistic spectrum). Delicate, timeless artwork also cleverly incorporates all sorts of satisfy…

• Bear, Bird and Frog

  Author: Gwen Millard
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 7+

  Bear and Bird are best friends but Bird doesn't like it when Bear makes friends with Frog.

• Beards from Outer Space (Pet Defenders #2)

  Author: Gareth P Jones
  Publisher: Little Tiger Press
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7+

  Mitzy the cat and Biskit the dog are back to once again foil an alien plot to take over the earth. The second book in the Pet Defenders series does not disappoint.

• Bearmouth

  Author: Liz Hyder
  Publisher: Pushkin
  Interest age: 10-14
  Reading age: 10+

  Newt has been living and working in the horrendous conditions of Bearmouth mine from an early age.  Any kind of way out isn’t even contemplated until Newt meets Devlin. This story is exciting, ambitious, unpredictable and breathtakingly brilliant. 

• Bear's Best Friend

  Author: Lucy Coats Illustrator: Sarah Dyer
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 7+

  Bear has a special talent for topiary - but he doesn't have a best friend, unlike the other animals in the wood.

• Bears Don't Read

  Author: Emma Chichester Clark
  Publisher: Harper Collins
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 6+

  Bears Don't Read  is a wonderfully engaging picture book about the joy of reading and how much fun it can be to help others.

• Bear's Magic Pencil

  Author: Anthony Browne
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  The result of a competition encouraging children to draw as a way of making stories, this book perfectly illustrates how a pencil can create narrative paths.

• Beast

  Author: Ally Kennen
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  Stephen has been keeping a secret of unbearable proportions. He can't confide in his foster family, his social worker or his dead-beat father - they wouldn't believe him anyway.

• Beast Hunter

  Author: Kathryn White
  Publisher: A&C Black
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Jacob and his friends spend their summer playing in an old quarry pond, until one day, a boy is killed...

• Beast Quest: Creta the Winged Terror

  Author: Adam Blade
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  Produced by a team of writers, Beast Quest is an ever-increasing series of short, graphically illustrated novels aimed at early KS2 boys.

• Beast Quest: New Blood

  Author: Adam Blade
  Publisher: Orchard
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Three children discover they are descendants of the Guardians of Avantia, courageous heroes who entered the human world through a portal. Full of monsters, dragons and magic, this fantasy adventure is enhanced by striking graphic novel-style illustrations.

• Beast Quest: The Dark Cauldron

  Author: Adam Blade
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Evil wizard Malvel has stolen a powerful item that he plans to use to destroy the kingdom of Avantia, but will Tom and Elenna be able to stop him? You'll be the one to decide in this entertaining choose-your-own-path story.

• Beastlands

  Author: Jess French
  Publisher: Piccadilly
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  On the island of Ramoa there are three great cities separated by the Beastlands: a wild, untamed wilderness that’s home to terrifying and deadly creatures. Can three disparate young people navigate the dangers and succeed in their individual quests? 

• Beastly Bugs

  Author: Sarah Snashall
  Publisher: Kingfisher
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  A fun little book about mini beasts with lots of somewhat gruesome looking photographs...

• Beasts of Olympus: Beast Keeper

  Author: Lucy Coats Illustrator: David Roberts
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press
  Interest age: 7-12
  Reading age: 8

  A funny, accessible, adventurous introduction to characters and stories from ancient Greece, starring an endearing hero faced with impossible tasks.

• Beasts of Olympus: Hound of Hades

  Author: Lucy Coats Illustrator: David Roberts
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press
  Interest age: 7-12
  Reading age: 8

  Demon, son of Pan, is now installed as Official Beastkeeper to the Gods. In this entertaining and daring escapade, second in the Beasts of Olympus series.

• Beatrice's Dream: A Story of Kibera Slum

  Author: Karen Lynn Williams Photographer Wendy Stone
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Childrens Books
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 8+

  This is a photographic commentary on the harsh reality of life for some of the world's poorest people and how education is seen as the main escape route from a lifetime of struggle.

• Beautiful Broken Things

  Author: Sara Barnard
  Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Best friends Caddy and Rosie are inseparable. Then Suzanne comes into their lives, and things get a whole lot more complicated. Heartfelt, hopeful, and surprisingly funny at times, this is a gorgeous tribute to female friendship.

• Beautiful Oops

  Author: Barney Saltzberg
  Publisher: Workman Books
  Interest age: 4-8
  

  What should you do when you make a mistake? Celebrate it, of course! This deceptively simple and highly interactive board book tells us that mistakes are a part of everyday life, and help us to learn and grow.

• Beauty and the Beast

  Author: Katie Haworth Illustrator: Dinara Mirtalipova
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 5-9
  Reading age: 7+

  This fairy tale is told very well by Katie Haworth, but the real star of the show is Dinara Mirtalipova's rich illustrations, full of deep, vivid colour, and the incredible 3D scenes that appear through clever paper cutouts.

• Because You'll Never Meet Me

  Author: Leah Thomas
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  This is an exceptional book, told through a series of letters, sent over several months. A fantastic debut novel. Highly recommended.

• Becoming Jo

  Author: Sophie McKenzie
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-14
  Reading age: 9+

  Jo has always wanted to be a writer - but with three sisters, a new friend who's just moved in to her street, and a father working as a humanist minister in Syria, there's a lot going on. A clever retelling of Little Women which transports the March sisters to the modern day.

• Becoming Muhammad Ali

  Author: Kwame Alexander and James Patterson
  Publisher: Jacaranda Books
  Interest age: 10-13
  Reading age: 10+

  Before he was three-time world heavyweight boxing champion and hailed as one of the greatest boxers of all time, Muhammad Ali was a kid called Cassius Clay; a fast talker with fast feet and big dreams.

  Written mostly in verse, this is an insightful and inspiring retelling of Ali’s teenage years.

  Growing up in segregated Louisville, Kentucky, in the 1950s, Ca…

• Bedlam

  Author: Ally Kennen
  Publisher: Marion Lloyd
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  When Lexi discovers an abandoned asylum in the local forest, little does she realise the sequence of events that are about to unfold.

• Bedtime for Duckling

  Author: Amelia Hepworth Illustrator: Anna Doherty
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Duckling is looking for somewhere to sleep, but Fox’s den is too muddy and Owl’s nest is too high up… where will they end up cosy and sleeping?

• Bedtime for Monsters

  Author: Ed Vere
  Publisher: Puffin Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Do you ever wonder if somewhere, not too far away, there might be monsters?

• Bedtime Stories: Amazing Asian Tales from the Past

  Author: Hannah Jiang Saima Mir Shae Davies Maisie Chan Cynthia So Annabelle Sami Bali Rai Sufiya Ahmed Rebeka Shaid and Rekha Waheed Illustrator: Aaliya Jaleel Abeeha Tariq Amanda Yoshida Debby Rahmalia Ginnie Hsu Hannah Li Jen Khatun Jocelyn Kao Kübra Teber and Tika and Tata
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  This attractive giftbook features sixteen biographical tales from across Asia and throughout history, with contributions from a range of authors and illustrators, all of Asian heritage.

• Bedtime Stories: Beautiful Black Tales from the Past

  Author: Various Ify Adenuga Candice Brathwaite Ryan Crawford Alex Falase-Koya Mahamed Hashi Ashley Hickson-Lovence Nansubuga Isdahl Sarah Mirkin Jade Mutyora Reggie Nelson Wendy Shearer
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  This exciting, illustrated collection features informative, interesting and inspirational stories from the lives of Black figures in history – from Roman times to the present day.

• Bedtime with Ted

  Author: Sophy Henn
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 1-3
  

  Little ones will love following the story of Ted's night-time routine - from splashing in the bath with penguins to having some milk with a tiger - in this colourful board book with flaps.

• Bee

  Author: Britta Teckentrup
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  This bee-autiful and special book takes children on a poetic journey through the bee's day.

• Bee Boy and the Moonflowers

  Author: Nicola Davies Illustrator: Max Low
  Publisher: Graffeg
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7+

  Asin is sent into the treacherous desert mountains to find the rare and magical Moonflowers: only bees that feed on these Moonflowers’ pollen will produce the magical Silver Honey, which will heal Asin’s family from their malaise.

• Bee Boy: Clash of the Killer Queens

  Author: Tony De Saulles
  Publisher: Oxford Children's Books
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7+

  When Mel discovers he can transform into a honeybee, he enjoys an amazing bee's-eye view of life inside a hive. This funny illustrated chapter book incorporates fascinating facts about these invaluable insects.

• Beegu

  Author: Alexis Deacon
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  This is a heart-warming and satisfying tale that is certain to provide comfort to young children.

• Beep Beep Beep Time For Sleep!

  Author: Claire Freedman
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  This bedtime book with a difference will appeal to digger-mad little ones as it follows the busy vehicles working on a motorway - at least, that is, until night falls and they can get some much-needed rest.

• Beep! Beep! Peekaboo!

  Author: Dorling Kindersley
  Publisher: DK
  

  • Your child will love the peek-a-boo game.

  • Read together and lift the giant flaps to reveal noisy toy vehicles.

  • Giggles and smiles are guaranteed!

• Beep, Beep, Let's Go!

  Author: Eleanor Taylor Illustrator: Eleanor Taylor
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 4+

  A family of dogs are setting off for the seaside in their car. Along the way they are joined by a menagerie of their friends.

• Beetle Boy

  Author: MG Leonard
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9-12

  When Darkus' father mysteriously disappears from London’s Natural History Museum, Darkus has to move in with his rather odd Uncle Max AND change schools. A wonderfully funny and engaging book, perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

• Beetle Queen

  Author: M G Leonard Illustrator: Karl James Mountford
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  M G Leonard manages to subtly pack a swarm of scientific information into the adventure story. Fans of Beetle Boy will be thrilled at these further antics, and those who secretly loved the dastardly Lucretia will enjoy seeing her steal the limelight.

• Beetles for Breakfast

  Author: Madeleine Finlay Illustrator: Jisu Choi
  Publisher: Flying Eye Books
  Interest age: 8-10
  Reading age: 8+

  Climate change and global warming is a huge problem but this utterly fabulous and uplifting book tells children all about the new inventions currently being worked on by scientists, from insects as a new food source to making fuel from fatbergs.

• Beezus and Ramona

  Author: Beverly Cleary
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Life with a very naughty little sister is both funny and excruciating in the six complete stories that make up this classic chapter book for newly independent readers.

• Before & After

  Author: Jean Jullien
  Publisher: Phaidon
  Interest age: 2-4
  

  A brilliant conversation book for even the tiniest toddlers. Jullien's illustrations are always a breath of fresh air, with an inviting bold style that is playful and stylish.

• Before I Die

  Author: Jenny Downham
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 9+

  Stunning in its beauty and honesty, this is an exceptional and utterly compelling read.

• Before I Wake Up…

  Author: Britta Teckentrup
  Publisher: Prestel
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  Asleep and dreaming, the little girl in this book floats through a shadowy and beautiful blue-black world with her friend, a watchful lion, at her side. Britta Teckentrup is a gifted illustrator-writer, and this is a wonderful, poetic and stylish book about sleep.

• Before We Say Goodbye

  Author: Gabriella Ambrosio Translator: Alastair McEwen
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 7+

  Ambrosio's award-winning first novel highlights the complexity and far-reaching implications of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in Jerusalem.

• Being Billy

  Author: Phil Earle
  Publisher: Penguin Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 11+

  Billy is angry with the whole world and with himself. But when it looks like his younger brother and sister may be taken from him, what is left of his world begins to fall apart.

• Being Here

  Author: Barry Jonsberg
  Publisher: Allen & Unwin
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 12+

  Leah Cartwright is very old. Some days she can’t remember her own name. She has no visitors, until one day, 16-year-old Carly comes to interview Leah for her social history project.

• Being Me by Adele Vialli

  Author: Pete Kalu
  Publisher: Hope Road
  Interest age: 15+
  Reading age: 14+

  Adele is determined to play football for England no matter what, but life keeps on getting in the way.

• Being You: Poems of Positivity

  Author: Daniel Thompson Illustrator: Julia Murray
  Publisher: Collins
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 7+

  Sometimes we all need a bit of a positive boost, and this book of 50 poems packed with positivity and happiness is just the ticket.

• Bella Broomstick – School Spells

  Author: Lou Kuenzler Illustrator: Kyan Cheng
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 7-12
  Reading age: 8+

  Bella Broomstick has been banished to Person World by her mean Aunt Hemlock. A spellbinding school adventure featuring an endearing witch-in-disguise and 101 magical rabbits!

• Bella Donna: Too Many Spells

  Author: Ruth Symes Illustrator: Marion Lindsay
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  The second engaging episode in Bella Donna’s life finds about to continue her studies as a witchling

• Belle and Sébastien: the child of the mountains

  Author: Cécil Aubry Illustratrated by Helen Stephens Translator: Gregory Norminton
  Publisher: Alma Books
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 10-12

  Belle and Sébastien is a much-loved children's classic in France from the 1960s, and has only recently been translated into English. The touching story - of the unbreakable bond between a child and his dog - still possesses a certain charm.

• Below Zero

  Author: Dan Smith
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 11-15
  Reading age: 10+

  When Zac and his family arrive at Outpost Zero in the Antarctica, they are expecting a community in training for a mission to Mars – but they find no one. The tension and sense of dread build rapidly in this brilliantly constructed horror thriller.

• Beneath

  Author: Cori Doerrfeld
  Publisher: Scallywag Press
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Finn is in a horrible mood and doesn’t want to talk about it – he’d rather hide under the bedcovers. But, Grandpa persuades Finn to come for a walk outside – Finn can even stay under the blanket and use it like a comforting, protective cloak.

• Benjamin & the Super Spectacles

  Author: Rachel Bright
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 4+

  Benjamin Bounce keeps bouncing into things and needs spectacles... A lovely picture book about friends making each other feel super!

• Benjamin Zephaniah’s Nature Trail

  Author: Benjamin Zephaniah Illustrator: Nila Aye
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  This joyful poem within a picture book pays tribute to all the treats that nature has to offer. Packed with animals and minibeasts galore, this fun, imaginative book is perfect for reading aloud. 

• Berserk

  Author: Ally Kennen
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 11+

  Chas and his troubled mates flirt with danger, girls and law-breaking, in this humorous, gritty story that becomes an irresistible farce-come-thriller.

• Bertie and the Alien Chicken

  Author: Jenny Pearson Illustrator: Alexsei Bitskoff
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Bertie must help Nugget the alien chicken find Earth’s most valuable resource - before the aliens blow up the planet! A brilliant humorous, dyslexia-friendly story.

• Best Friends Forever

  Author: Lisa Williamson
  Publisher: Guppy Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  This funny and touching coming-of-age story reflects the experiences of many youngsters making the transition to secondary school or experiencing changes in the family.

• Beswitched

  Author: Kate Saunders
  Publisher: Marion Lloyd
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Flora mysteriously finds herself in a 1930s girls’ school, where her twenty-first century behaviour and language shock and delight her new friends.

• Betsey Biggalow is Here!

  Author: Malorie Blackman Illustrator: Jamie Smith
  Publisher: Red Fox
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  Betsey Biggalow is here! She may be small but she's full of bright and shiny ideas

• Betsey Biggalow the Detective

  Author: Malorie Blackman Illustrator: Jamie Smith
  Publisher: Red Fox
  Interest age: 5-10
  Reading age: 8+

  Despite the sunshine, life is not always straightforward for Betsey Biggalow - though she always manages to have lots of adventures and plenty of fun.

• Better Nate than Ever

  Author: Tim Federle
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 8+

  Thirteen-year-old Nate Foster dreams of escaping Jankburg, Pennsylvania for a more exciting life and now’s his chance!

• Betty Goes Bananas in her Pyjamas

  Author: Steve Antony
  Publisher: Oxford
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Betty, the baby gorilla, is a delightfully wilful and impulsive character and her reluctance to surrender to sleep will strike a very familiar chord with many young children and their carers.

• Betty: Bywyd Penderfynol Betty Campbell / Betty: The Determined Life of Betty Campbell

  Author: Nia Morais Illustrator: Anastasia Magloire
  Publisher: Llyfrau Broga
  Interest age: 8-9
  Reading age: 8+

  Heb os, mae'r llyfr yn ddathliad o'r dygnwch a dewrder a ddangosodd Betty Campbell yn ystod ei bywyd ac mae'n stori bwysig i blant ei darllen a'i chlywed.

  ---

  The book is undoubtedly a celebration of the endurance and courage that Betty Campbell showed during her life and is an important story for children to read and hear.

• Between Shades of Gray

  Author: Ruta Sepetys
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  Set in 1941, Between Shades of Grey is an extraordinary and haunting story based on first-hand family accounts and memories from survivors.

• Between the Lives

  Author: Jessica Shirvington
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  This is one of the most original YA books in a long time. It is gripping and exceptionally well-written with fantastic characters and an exciting plot. One of the best of 2014.

• Between Two Seas

  Author: Marie-Louise Jensen
  Publisher: Oxford Children's Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 11+

  Marianne and her mother live an insular life in 19th century Grimsby. They are restricted by poverty and their shame in Marianne’s illegitimacy.

• Beverly, Right Here

  Author: Kate DiCamillo
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 12-14
  Reading age: 12+

  Beverly desperately wants things to be different to how they are. She decides to leave home and, after hitching a ride, winds up in Tamerly Bay, a scruffy seaside town with not much going on. And yet also quite a lot going on…

  Determined not to rely on anyone else ever again, Beverly sorts herself a waitressing job and finds a place to stay. But she can’t qu…

• Beware Killer Tomatoes

  Author: Jeremy Strong Illustrator: Rowan Clifford
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  The latest in a series of illustrated short novels aimed at younger readers. Easily read and funny, it nevertheless addresses some deep questions with which its audience will identify.

  Jack is in hospital after braking his leg by riding his bike into a stationary car whilst escaping from a supermarket accident. He had knocked over a display of tinned toma…

• Beware of the Storybook Wolves

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: Hachette
  Interest age: 4-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Lauren Child has created a truly original and hilarious story, and her lively and unique collage-style illustrations are a joy. Ideal for reassuring children who are scared of the dark.

• Beyoncé: Queen of the Spotlight

  Author: Ebony Joy Wilkins
  Publisher: Stripes
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  From her early childhood to her rise in becoming one of the biggest international stars of all time, this account of Beyoncé's incredible life is packed with trivia, extra facts and the inspiring message that if you really want something to work, you'll make it happen.

• Beyond Belief: The Science of the Future

  Author: Alex Woolf Illustrator: Jasmine Floyd
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9+

  Featuring chapters about space colonies, time travel, super-intelligent machines, invisibility, superhumans, nanotechnology, cloning, nuclear fusion and much more, this brilliant book is seriously inspiring – and a great source for parents and teachers of curious kids. 

• Beyond Platform 13

  Author: Sibeal Pounder (from an original idea by Eva Ibbotson) Illustrator: Beatriz Castro
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  This thrilling adventure is a sequel to Eva Ibbotson's The Secret of Platform 13, but the reading experience will not be hampered by not having read the original. It’s a rollicking, magical read that already feels like a modern classic. 

• Beyond the Bright Sea

  Author: Lauren Wolk
  Publisher: Corgi
  Interest age: 10-14
  Reading age: 10+

  A wonderful tale of trying to find your place within the world, Beyond The Bright Sea transports the reader to a luminous island of sea, wind and driftwood, set apart from the busy world.

• Beyond the Fence

  Author: Maria Gulemetova
  Publisher: Child’s Play
  Interest age: 6-9
  Reading age: 7+

  Thomas, Piggy’s friend, always seems to know what’s best for Piggy. But might there be another way for Piggy to be himself? The perfect book to provoke discussion about toxic friendships and making the right choices for us. 

• Beyond the Sky: You and the Universe

  Author: Dara Ó’Briain Illustrator: Dan Bramall
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Beginning with the question, 'So you want to go into space?', this book takes readers on a fascinating and hilarious journey through the solar system and beyond. 

• Beyond the Stars

  Author: Sarah Webb (compiled by)
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9+

  Twelve brand new stories from the cream of Irish writers and illustrators who jostle for space in this collection of inspirational writing.

• Bhorta Bhorta Baby! A mashy squishy potato party

  Author: Jumana Rahman & Maryam Huq
  Publisher: Bok Bok Books
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  A baby watches an adult making bhorta, a South Asian dish of spicy mashed potatoes: potatoes go in to boil, then chillies and onion are fried up. Baby mashes the squishy potatoes: such fun! Then the oil and salt is added and the bhorta is made into little balls. Yummy! 

• Big

  Author: Sav Akyüz
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  A young boy wishes he was big like his older brother. Sav Akyüz has created a beautifully illustrated, mostly wordless story. Children will love using their imagination to think about what they would do if they were BIG too.

• Big and Small

  Author: Britta Teckentrup
  Publisher: Barefoot Books
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 3+

  It is never too early to introduce some information about how an apple grows from a seed, or how a shark survives by eating fish, and this lovely little board book is an excellent way to ease some non-fiction facts into even the youngest babies’ book routine.

• Big Bad Bun

  Author: Jeanne Willis Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Bun has run away from home and been accepted into the fearsome Hell Bunnies, renowned for their bad behaviour.

• Big Bad Dragon Club

  Author: Beach
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 2-5
  Reading age: 5+

  A funny picture book about dragons learning they don't always have to be bad!

• Big Bad Wolf Investigates: Fairy Tales

  Author: Catherine Cawthorne Illustrator: Sara Ogilvie
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's Books
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Could the Big Bad Wolf really blow down a straw house? A funny look at familiar fairy tales through the lens of STEM.

• Big Ben

  Author: Rachel Anderson Illustrator: Jane Ray
  Publisher: Barn Owl Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 10

  Matthew wants to write about his older brother Ben who has Down syndrome for a school project on individuals who the students admire.

• Big Blue Train

  Author: Julia Jarman Illustrator: Adrian Reynolds
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  After an earlier adventure with a Big Red Bath, Jarman and Reynolds send Ben and Bella on another imaginary adventure - a train journey to the seaside for a party.

• Big Blue Whale

  Author: Nicola Davies Illustrator: Nick Maland
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  Nicola Davies’ chatty picture book describes in detail the dimensions, eating habits and life-cycle of the blue whale.

• Big Bones

  Author: Laura Dockrill
  Publisher: Hotkey
  Interest age: 12-16
  Reading age: 12+

  Big Bones is a truly refreshing read, and Bluebelle is a wonderful, honest and utterly hilarious narrator to fall in love with. This book will make readers think about body image in a whole new way, and about the importance of self-respect.

• Big Book of Nursery Rhymes

  Author: Kali Stileman
  Publisher: Doubleday
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 5+

  A vivid, humorous, modern and highly satisfying collection of nursery songs and rhymes with bold and funny illustrations.

• Big Change for Stuart

  Author: Lissa Evans
  Publisher: Doubleday Children's Books
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 8+

  In this sequel to the acclaimed, Small Change for Stuart, Stuart and his friend April must solve magical puzzles to discover the whereabouts of his uncle's missing Will.

• Big City Atlas

  Author: Maggie Li
  Publisher: Pavilion
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Take a whistle-stop tour around 28 of the world’s most amazing cities; soak up the culture, traditions, prominent landmarks and local food experiences with a cheery penguin guide in a bright and engrossing pictorial feast. 

• Big City Explorer

  Author: Maggie Li
  Publisher: Pavilion Children's Books
  Interest age: 5+
  

  This fantastic book is a perfect introduction into some of the world’s largest cities. It’s full of fun, facts and great illustrations that will appeal to young readers.

• Big Game

  Author: Dan Smith (Original Story Jalmari Helander and Petri Jokiranta)
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  Everything about this book is excellent. The story is fast-paced, extremely well written and is packed with unrelenting action.

• Big Hedgehog and Little Hedgehog Take an Evening Stroll

  Author: Britta Teckentrup
  Publisher: Prestel
  

  Big Hedgehog and Little Hedgehog are walking home through the forest. It’s getting late and it’s almost time for Little Hedgehog’s bedtime, but Little Hedgehog wants to stop along the way and watch the sun set, the moon rise, smell the wildflowers and visit the owls.

• Big Momma Makes the World

  Author: Phyllis Root Illustrator: Helen Oxenbury
  Publisher: Candlewick Press
  Interest age: 3-7
  Reading age: 5-7

  This beautiful reimagining of the Christian creation myth places Big Momma as Creator: a rounded, plain speaking woman with a baby, whose warm Big Momma voice speaks the universe into being. A truly amazing book to share.

• Big Nate - The Boy with the Biggest Head in the World

  Author: Lincoln Peirce
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  This hilarious take on American school life is sure to make readers laugh, cringe and turn the next page. Based on a comic strip by Lincoln Peirce, the inspiration behind Jeff Kinney, this is sure to appeal to any fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

• Big Red Bath

  Author: Julia Jarman Illustrator: Adrian Reynolds
  Publisher: Hachette
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 4+

  'Duck dibble-dabbles at a quacking pace. Bubbles fly all over the place!' Ben and Bella have an increasingly crowded bath-time, as animals arrive one by one and ask to get in the bath too.

• Big Scary Monster

  Author: Thomas Docherty Illustrator: Thomas Docherty
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 6+

  A cautionary tale, humorously told and beautifully illustrated, with plenty of scope for noisy participation from young readers.

• Big Sky Mountain: The Beach Otters

  Author: Alex Milway
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press
  Interest age: 6-8
  

  This is the third in Alex Milway’s lovely and highly illustrated Big Sky Mountain series, and this time Rosa and Grandma Nan have to investigate who has let off a distress flare in Toe-Dipper Bay. When they arrive, they find the beach covered in plastic rubbish and a family of beach otters trying their best to tidy up. But who has let off the distr…

• Bigfoot, Tobin and Me

  Author: Melissa Savage
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 9-13
  Reading age: 9+

  A tragedy brings Lemonade Liberty Witt to her grandpa's place from San Francisco, but she's determined she won't be staying long. A funny, touching and thought-provoking adventure story examining loss, grief, self-discovery and acceptance.

• Bigger! Bigger!

  Author: Leslie Patricelli
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  A clever concept, imaginatively shown in bright and chunky illustrations with minimal text. This could inspire some creative play at home, and it's lovely to see a little girl shown in a construction role.

• Bikes for Sale

  Author: Carter Higgins Illustrator: Zachariah OHora
  Publisher: Chronicle Books
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  This quirky tale, with distinctive, vibrant illustrations, is delightful. Amusing and uplifting, it explores the joy of friendship and demonstrates that sharing adventures can double the fun.

• Bilal’s Brilliant Bee

  Author: Michael Rosen Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7-9

  One night, just before Bilal's latest test at school, Bumble the brilliant bee appears. He can answer any question at all! Typical of Michael Rosen, this book is funny, sly and gloriously accompanied by Tony Ross' bold illustrations.

• Billionaire Boy

  Author: David Walliams Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 8+

  Having started from humble origins, Joe’s father is now a billionaire, and Joe has everything he wants, except true friends.

• Billy and the Beast

  Author: Nadia Shireen
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 6+

  Billy and her friend Fatcat are enjoying a walk in the woods when they notice that the bunnies and mice have gone missing – and a hungry Beast is collecting ingredients for a terrible soup. An empowering story, full of humour and humanity. 

• Billy and the Dragon

  Author: Nadia Shireen
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Billy and her sidekick, the amusingly monobrowed Fatcat, are at a fancy dress party when a very large REAL dragon swoops down from nowhere and grabs Fatcat! As always, Shireen’s comic timing is first class.

• Billy and the Mini Monsters – Monsters in the Dark

  Author: Zanna Davidson Illustrator: Melanie Williamson
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 4-9
  Reading age: 7+

  An entertaining adventure about monsters who turn out to be much less scary than they sound. Overflowing with funny illustrations, this story will reassure anyone nervous at night-time!

• Billy Bonkers

  Author: Giles Andreae Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Hachette
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  Meet Billy Bonkers and discover how an average day with the Bonkers family always seems to turn into something extraordinary.

• Bindi Babes

  Author: Narinder Dhami
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 9+

  Narinder Dhami has a light touch which girls in particular will enjoy.

• Bing Bed Time

  Author: Ted Dewan Illustrator: Ted Dewan
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Like many very young children, Bing Bunny finds it hard to calm down enough to get to bed after a busy and lively day.

• Binky's Time to Fly

  Author: Sharmila Collins Illustrator: Carolina Rabei
  Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  When Binky the butterfly emerges from his cocoon, he discovers his wings aren't the same as those of his friends - will he be able to fly? A heart-warming book with a powerful message.

• Binny Bewitched

  Author: Hilary McKay
  Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Binny hasn't even decided what wonderful birthday gift she'll buy for her mum before she loses the money. She's sure her twitchy neighbour is a witch, playing havoc with her life. Masterful writing makes this touching story bounce along beautifully.

• Binny for Short

  Author: Hilary McKay
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Since her father died, Binny's family have struggled. Then old Aunt Violet dies, leaving them her house by the sea.

• Binny's Diwali

  Author: Thrity Umrigar Illustrator: Nidhi Chanani
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 4-8
  

  It's Diwali and Binny is so excited! She has a snazzy new outfit to wear and lots of beautiful streamers and sweet treats to share with her classmates. A charming picture book celebrating the joy of Diwali, just one of the thousands of religious festivals around the world.

• Bird

  Author: Crystal Chan
  Publisher: Tamarind Books
  

  Jewel Campbell’s brother John died on the day she was born: his Grandpa had called him Bird so he went to the cliff to fly off the edge. 

• Birds and Other Animals with Pablo Picasso

  Author: First Concepts with Fine Artists Illustrations by Picasso
  Publisher: Phaidon
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  The book is perfectly designed with thick board pages, each containing a black-and-white line drawing of an animal found in Picasso's notebooks. The drawings are charming and immediately identifiable - a gorgeous addition to any baby bookshelf.

• Birdsong

  Author: Katya Balen Illustrator: Richard Johnson
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8-9

  Annie has been silent and furious since she injured her arm in an accident. Can the blackbirds’ song help her get in touch with her feelings? A super-readable format makes the story accessible to a wide range of reading abilities.

• Birdy

  Author: Jess Vallance
  Publisher: Hot Key Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Social outcast, Frances Bird, is tasked with looking after confident new girl Alberta Fitzroy-Black. It slowly becomes apparent that their friendship is not quite what it appears

• Birdy & Bou

  Author: David Bedford Illustrator: Mandy Stanley
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 4+

  The bright colours, bold style and short text make this a lovely picture book for young readers moving up from board books. It's a simple story of a new friendship with a useful message of sharing together.

• Birth of a Killer

  Author: Darren Shan
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  Birth of a Killer is the first book in a new series that form a prequel to the best-selling sequence The Saga of Darren Shan.

• Biscuit Bear

  Author: Mini Grey
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  In a baking session with his mum, Horace makes Biscuit Bear, but he has to wait until the following day to eat him.

• Bite Risk

  Author: S. J. Wills
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 11+

  Each month, when there’s a full moon, the adults of Tremorglade transform into werewolves and the children must lock them away until they return to their human form. However, a series of escapes puts the whole town at risk. A gripping teenage horror, with just the right balance of gore, tension and humour.

• Bitter Sixteen

  Author: Stefan Mohamed
  Publisher: Salt
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Funny, sharp and totally original, Bitter Sixteen is the beginning of a trilogy about a tremendously appealing smart-mouthed Welsh superhero (and his talking dog sidekick). Half action thriller, half coming-of-age story, with a wicked sense of humour.

• Bizzy Bear: Fun on the Farm

  Author: Benji Davies
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Babies and toddlers will enjoy this sturdy board book with lots of sliders and tabs to push and pull

• Bizzy Bear: Racing Driver

  Author: Benji Davies
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Bizzy Bear is having another amazing adventure. This time, he’s a racing driver on a Formula One track. The chunky pages and thick tabs are perfect for little paws, and the text is very simple and perfect to read aloud. 

• Bizzy Bear: Spooky House

  Author: Benji Davies
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Bizzy Bear adds a seasonal story to the range of interactive board books for very young readers. This time Bizzy Bear is exploring a very spooky house and he's all dressed up ready for Halloween!

• Bizzy Bear: Zoo Ranger

  Author: Benji Davies
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-3
  Reading age: 3+

  Bizzy is helping out all over the zoo: visiting the lions in their den, rather alarmingly brushing a crocodile with a broom, and feeding the penguins with a bucket of fish. Children will love spotting all the animals and this bright, bold and brilliant fun!

• Black and British: A Short, Essential History

  Author: David Olusoga
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 9-14
  Reading age: 9+

  David Olusoga’s latest edition of Black and British has been revised and rewritten especially for secondary school children, and explains and illustrates the much-overlooked history of Black peoples in Britain and beyond.

• Black and British: An Illustrated History

  Author: David Olusoga Illustrator: Jake Alexander and Melleny Taylor
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  This fascinating illustrated book tells the often heartbreaking story of Black people in Britain’s history clearly, and with a focus on the real humans involved. Doubtless, the book will be an education for many parents, as well as their children. 

• Black Arts: The Books of Pandemonium

  Author: Andrew Prentice and Jonathan Weil
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 10+

  Elizabethan London is a city teeming with traders, thieves, courtiers, cut-throats... and demons. When young thief Jack the Nipper picks the pocket of a mysterious stranger, he discovers he too possesses supernatural powers.

• Black Brother, Black Brother

  Author: Jewell Parker Rhodes
  Publisher: Orion
  Interest age: 10-12
  Reading age: 9+

  Donte has had enough of being treated worse than his lighter-skinned brother. He finds a way to beat the bullies by become an expert at fencing. A unique, unforgettable novel with plenty of pointers for further reading and learning.

• Black Dog

  Author: Levi Pinfold
  Publisher: Templar Publishing
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 7+

  A black dog appears outside the Hope family's home

• Black Girls: A Celebration of You

  Author: Dominique Furukawa Illustrator: Erika Lynne Jones
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  A gloriously upbeat lyrical love letter to Black girls all over the world.

• Black Hearts in Battersea

  Author: Joan Aiken
  Publisher: Red Fox
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  In Joan Aiken's imagined early nineteenth-century Britain, James III of the Hanoverians is on the throne.

• Black Hole Cinema Club

  Author: Christopher Edge
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Be prepared for a reading experience unlike any other. From a stunningly original beginning, this adrenalin-fuelled sci-fi adventure will have readers on the edge of their seats right to the last page.   

• Black in Time

  Author: Alison Hammond and Emma Norry Illustrator: Tinuke Fagborun
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9-11

  This fabulous non-fiction book showcases the achievements of an array of remarkable Black Britons, from the Roman Empire to the twentieth century. While some names may be familiar, many are not, demonstrating that people of colour are woefully under-represented in the history books. This volume seeks to redress the balance, and readers will learn about extra…

• Black Light Express

  Author: Philip Reeve
  Publisher: Oxford
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Philip Reeve is a master world-builder and the nuances of the Network Empire world are executed beautifully in this sequel to the stunning RailHead.

• Black Powder

  Author: Ally Sherrick
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  The year is 1605 and if you are a Catholic in England it is a very dangerous time to be alive, so Tom and his family try their best to avoid being noticed.

• Black Queen

  Author: Michael Morpurgo Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  Billy is frightened of his neighbour, nicknamed the 'Black Queen', but when she goes away for a few days, he warily agrees to look after her cat.

• Black Rabbit Summer

  Author: Kevin Brooks
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Addictive, complex and incredibly compelling

• Black Sheep

  Author: Na’ima B Robert
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Dwayne is sixteen, disengaged from home and school, and a reluctant member of a Brixton gang. When he meets ambitious Misha, the two are instantly attracted to each other.

• Black Ships Before Troy

  Author: Rosemary Sutcliff Illustrator: Alan Lee
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 10+

  This stunning children’s version of The Iliad was first published in 1993 and is being republished now. Featuring the stories of heroes Ajax, Achilles and Penthesilea, this is high adventure at its best.

• Blackberry Blue

  Author: Jamila Gavin Illustrator: Richard Collingridge
  Publisher: Tamarind Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  A stunning collection of mystical fairy tales that are at once exotic and fresh, and traditionally heartening.

• Blackbird

  Author: N D Gomes
  Publisher: Harper Collins
  Interest age: 12-16
  Reading age: 11+

  Alex McCarthy has lost her older sister, Olivia: she’s gone missing, on New Year’s Eve. At the same time, a flock of dead blackbirds fall mysteriously from the sky... This is a gripping mystery, full of brooding melancholy, red herrings and clues.

• Blackbird, Blackbird, What Do You Do?

  Author: Kate McLelland
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 2-4
  

  Pip the blackbird is on a quest to find out what it is that blackbirds are really good at. This soft, beautiful picture book combines Pip's story with a non-fiction element that describes what different birds do in simple but useful terms.

• Blame

  Author: Simon Mayo
  Publisher: Corgi
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 12+

  A tense and gripping thriller about a teenager determined to show the world that she's not to blame for the crimes of her parents. Not for the faint-hearted.

• Blart: The Boy Who Didn't Want to Save the World

  Author: Dominic Barker
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's Books
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  Blart is a 14-year-old illiterate pig farmer who suddenly discovers from the most powerful wizard in the world, Capablanca, that he is the only boy who can save the world...

• Blindside

  Author: Aidan Chambers
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 8+

  Ideal for those with reading difficulties including dyslexia, the book is short and accessible and still packs a real punch. The account is factual, convincing and unsentimental, whilst still managing to engage and move the reader.

• Bling Blaine

  Author: Rob Sanders Illustrator: Letizia Rizzo
  Publisher: Sterling
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Blaine LOVES sparkles and glitter - but there are a few kids at school who think he's weird and call him names. It's up to Blaine's friends to help him get his sparkle back (and spread a bit of bling themselves too!)

• Blitzcat

  Author: Robert Westall
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 10+

  Blitzcat won the 1989 Smarties Book Prize and is a powerful but tender panorama of life during the Second World War. It’s also a moving portrayal of a cat devoted to her owner. A modern classic.

• Blobfish

  Author: Olaf Falafel
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  Reading age: 4-5

  Blobfish lives alone, deep under the sea. In fact, he’s rather lonely. One day, when a carrier bag falls into the sea, Blobfish finds it and thinks it’s a new friend. Happily, he dances with the bag as it floats through the water, but when Blobfish gets trapped inside the bag, things start looking a little bleak.

• Blobheads

  Author: Paul Stewart Illustrator: Chris Riddell
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's books
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 8+

  Ever wondered what might rise out of the toilet when you lift the lid? In Billy Barnes' case it's the Blobheads, three incompetent aliens...

• Blocks

  Author: Irene Dickinson
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Ruby has red blocks and Benji has blue blocks - and both of them want to build something spectacular. A bright and engaging story about the importance of sharing and working together.

• Blood

  Author: Alan Durant
  Publisher: Definitions
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  This well-deserved republication of Durant's 1992 novel is a murder mystery which goes beyond the obvious.

• Blood and Ink

  Author: Stephen Davies
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 12+

  Kadija's bright spirit is a refreshing insight to the life of teenager living in the Sahara.

• Blood Family

  Author: Anne Fine
  Publisher: Doubleday
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 13+

  Locked away by his mother's abusive partner, Edward is seven years old before rescue finally arrives. This is his story.

• Blood Fever

  Author: Charlie Higson
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  A sinister and secret society seems to be operating at Eton, while in the Mediterranean a young girl and her tutor are taken captive by a Hungarian pirate - but are the two linked?

• Blood Line

  Author: Kevin Brooks
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 8+

  A republication of a short novel which Kevin Brooks wrote more than 10 years ago for Barrington Stoke's excellent series for reluctant readers.

• Blood Red Road

  Author: Moira Young
  Publisher: Marion Lloyd Books
  Interest age: 13-18
  Reading age: 13+

  A violent, desperate and compelling story about family, love and determination, which enthrals through its bold, powerful language.

• Blood Red Rose

  Author: Anne Perry
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 6+

  Rosie has problems with reading and doesn't want anyone to know, least of all Zack, the coolest boy in school. Feeling miserable, she cries herself to sleep one night, only to wake up in 1812 aboard The Red Rose, an illegal slave ship.

• Blood Red Snow White

  Author: Marcus Sedgwick
  Publisher: Hachette
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 11+

  No prior knowledge of Ransome or the revolution is needed to enjoy this beguilingly written account of Rasputin, the Romanovs and Lenin; with Ransome, a troubled Englishman amidst it all.

• Blood Song

  Author: Melvin Burgess
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 16+
  Reading age: 15+

  Utterly addictive reading that comes with a health warning.

• Bloodtide

  Author: Melvin Burgess
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 13+

  This shocking and brutal novel is not for the faint-hearted, with its chilling portrayal of a bleak future, but Burgess's storytelling prowess is undeniable.

• Bloom

  Author: Nicola Skinner
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 10-13
  Reading age: 9+

  Sorrel Fallowfield is very well-behaved, but her world is about to be turned upside down when she discovers a mysterious packet of seeds. A surreal, sideways take on conformity and the power of breaking the rules.

• Blow a Kiss, Catch a Kiss

  Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Nicola Killen
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  A series of heart-warming modern poems perfect for sharing everyday feelings and experiences of babies and toddlers.

• Blown Away

  Author: Rob Biddulph
  Publisher: Harper Collins
  Interest age: 2-4
  

  Penguin Blue has got a new toy, and it's the right kind of day to try it out. But the wind is a little stronger than expected and along with the new kite, Penguin Blue is blown away.

• Blue

  Author: Sarah Christou
  Publisher: Faber Publishing
  Interest age: 5-6
  Reading age: 6+

  A tender and encouraging picture book about the importance of sharing difficult feelings. A young child shares their secret – a secret which takes the form of a big, scary monster called Blue…

• Blue & Other Colours with Henri Matisse

  Author: First concepts with fine artists (group)
  Publisher: Phaidon
  Interest age: 1-3
  

  This beautiful book teaches young children all about colours by using the fabulous art of Henri Matisse. A fun new way for children to learn vocabulary while being taught about great artists.

• Blue Chameleon

  Author: Emily Gravett
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's books
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 6+

  Blue chameleon is lonely, so turns himself into a variety of things in an attempt to make a new friend.

• Blue John

  Author: Berlie Doherty Illustrator: Alexandria Neonakis
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  Author Berlie Doherty has twice won the prestigious Carnegie medal. Beautiful illustrations and a fable-like story will appeal to children who enjoy myths and legends.

• Blue Monster Wants It All

  Author: Jeanne Willis Illustrator: Jenni Desmond
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Blue Monster loves new things and ventures out into the world to buy anything and everything he wants. Young readers will secretly delight in Blue Monster’s bad behaviour and recognise the underlying message.

• Blue Moon Day

  Author: Anne Fine
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 8+

  Covering an interesting and varied mix of situations, these enjoyable school stories are a satisfying read, with particular appeal to more reluctant readers.

• Blue Penguin

  Author: Petr Horacek
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Blue Penguin wants to belong. But how does he convince the other penguins that he is just like them? A touching story about friendship and fitting in.

• Bluebeard

  Author: Metaphrog
  Publisher: Papercutz
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  This graphic novel is a beautifully realised retelling of the dark Bluebeard fairytale with a satisfying feminist twist. A wonderful book for reluctant readers and suited to children aged 8+ due to the slighly 'horror' elements of its content.

• Blueberry Girl

  Author: Neil Gaiman Illustrator: Charles Vess
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  Written by Neil Gaiman for the birth of his friend Tori Amos’ daughter, this wonderful, winsome and heartwarming poem is an inspiring read for any child, reassuring the reader that they can be whatever they want to be with a little magic, imagination and kindness. 

• Boa’s Bad Birthday

  Author: Jeanne Willis Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Anderson
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Boa the snake is expecting the best birthday ever, with all his friends bringing him wonderful presents, but things don't turn out quite as he hoped. Each animal brings something that would suit the giver rather than the birthday boy: grand pianos, sunglasses, and mittens aren't much use to someone without fingers, a nose or fingers. So it continues until th…

• Bob and Flo and the Missing Bucket

  Author: Rebecca Ashdown
  Publisher: OUP
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Flo the penguin is ready for her first day at nursery, and she has her packed lunch with her: fish in a bucket...

• Bob and the Disappearing Moon

  Author: Simon Bartram
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  Bob has a job with a difference - he takes tours to the moon in his space rocket. He also cleans up space litter, sweeps out craters and monitors aliens.

• Bob and the Moon Tree Mystery

  Author: Simon Bartram
  Publisher: Templar Publishing
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  Bob and Barry the moon dog discover a mysterious tree growing in Crater 483

• Bob the Bursting Bear

  Author: Michael Rosen Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  When Bob the bear leaves Mr Ted’s Toy School, he knows that he needs to be the perfect bear in order to be loved by his new owners.

• Bobbo Goes to School

  Author: Shirley Hughes
  Publisher: The Bodley Head Ltd
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 6+

  Lily and mum are worried when Bobbo the toy dog goes missing - but he soon turns up in a school playground.

• Bob's Best Ever Friend

  Author: Simon Bartram
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 7+

  Bob is the Man who works on the Moon but doesn’t believe in aliens. One day he realises that he is lonely and needs a friend.

• Bocchi + Pocchi and the Bird

  Author: Noriko Matsubara
  Publisher: Troika Books
  Interest age: 1-3
  Reading age: 6+

  This, the second Bocchi and Pocchi story, with its colourful and happy illustrations, is a warm hearted and cosy tale of friendship.

• Boffin Boy and the Deadly Swarm

  Author: David Orme Illustrator: Peter Richardson
  Publisher: Ransom
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9+

  Can Boffin Boy find the source of the insect menace and put an end to it once and for all?

• Boffin Boy and the Emperor's Tomb

  Author: David Orme
  Publisher: Ransom Publishing
  

  
  This particular quest sees the schoolboy-turned-superhero, his equally brave friend Chika and a new sidekick (Kat the dog) teaming up to battle evil ancient warriors in a secret tomb.

• Boffin Boy and the Forest of the Ninja

  Author: David Orme Illustrator: Peter Richardson
  Publisher: Ransom
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9+

  This graphic novel style book is a quick read and perfect for those who don’t like too much text.

• Boffin Boy and the Poison Garden

  Author: David Orme Illustrator: Peter Richardson
  Publisher: Ransom Publishing
  Interest age: 8-14
  Reading age: 7+

  Both loyal Boffin Boy fans, and those discovering the series for the first time, will enjoy this outlandish adventure about a famous female scientist who is planting trees that look disturbingly like people and animals.

• Boffin Boy and the Temple of Mars

  Author: David Orme Illustrator: Peter Richardson
  Publisher: Ransom
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 7+

  Boffin Boy discovers an ancient building on Mars containing mysterious creatures.

• Boffin Boy and the Wizard of Edo

  Author: David Orme Illustrator: Peter Richardson
  Publisher: Ransom Publishing
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9+

  This graphic novel style book is a quick read and perfect for those who don’t like too much text.

• Boffin Boy Goes to Hollywood

  Author: David Orme Illustrator: Peter Richardson
  Publisher: Ransom
  Interest age: 7-12
  Reading age: 5-8

  Rick Shaw might seem like an ordinary teenager, but when danger strikes Ricky becomes... Boffin Boy!

• Bog Child

  Author: Siobhan Dowd
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  This is a beautifully written coming-of-age tale, which deals with themes of mortality, peace and sacrifice.

• Bollywood Babes

  Author: Narinder Dhami
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  Geena, Amber and Jazz - the Bindi girls - are back! Amber is still keen to further the romance between Auntie and handsome teacher, Mr Aurora, but things go awry...

• Bone Gap

  Author: Laura Ruby
  Publisher: Faber Children’s Books
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  When Roza goes missing from Bone Gap, no one is surprised. This stunning and beautifully written story weaves Finn and Roza's narrative together with subtle magical realism and references to Greek mythology.

• Bone Talk

  Author: Candy Gourlay
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 10-16
  Reading age: 10+

  Samkad is a boy from a remote Filipino "headhunter" tribe called Bontok in the highlands of the Philippines, back in around 1899 – on the brink of invasion by American invaders. A brilliant, exciting and fascinating adventure story.

• Boo Boo Baby and the Giraffe

  Author: Eileen Browne Illustrator: Emily Bolam
  Publisher: Picture Corgi
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 5+

  Boo Boo Baby is looking at the animal characters on his cot mobile as he drifts off to sleep. All at once, a giraffe comes along and says 'Hello!' and takes him for a wild ride.

• Boo!

  Author: Tracey Corderoy Illustrator: Caroline Pedler
  Publisher: Little Tiger Press
  Interest age: 1-3
  

  An affectionate and energetic tale of friendship and surprises to appeal to very young readers.

• Boo!

  Author: Ben Newman
  Publisher: Flying Eye Books
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  The wonderfully simple visual joke underpinning this story of bravery and inner insecurity is told through the illustrations, graphically bold, strongly coloured, using page space and page turns with energy and stylish wit. Enormous fun!

• Book Hospital

  Author: Leigh Hodgkinson
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 3-6
  

  Leigh Hodgkinson’s delightful picture book about the very real perils of being a much loved and re-read book is both hilarious and adorable, and a homage to the joy of reading.

• Book of Bones: 10 Record-Breaking Animals

  Author: Gabrielle Balkan Illustrator: Sam Brewster
  Publisher: Phaidon Books
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7-9

  Discover which animal has the biggest bone, the lightest bone and even the spikiest bone! This is a great and accessible introduction to the world of anatomy and the wider natural world for inquisitive minds.

• Book of Lies

  Author: Terri Terry
  Publisher: Orchard
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Piper and Quinn find out they're identical twins when their mother dies. Written with alternating viewpoint chapters between the twins, there is a genuinely spooky feel to this excellent psychological and supernatural thriller.

• Booked

  Author: Kwame Alexander
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 12-16
  Reading age: 12+

  From fast-paced football matches to school and family drama, this novel written in verse has something for everyone and will grip reluctant readers from page one.

• Books Always Everywhere

  Author: Jane Blatt Illustrator: Sarah Massini
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 4+

  Big and small, wide and tall, there are all kinds of books to enjoy in this charming celebration of reading for even the youngest children.

• Books Make Good Pets

  Author: John Agard Illustrator: Momoko Abe
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 5-8
  Reading age: 6+

  In this delightful book about books, readers go on an imaginative journey through the amazing worlds of adventure that a good book can inspire - and learn that a book can sometimes be a perfect pet or best friend.

• Bookshop Girl

  Author: Chloe Coles
  Publisher: Hot Key Books
  Interest age: 13-17
  Reading age: 11+

  Peggy has a mere four weeks to save Greysworth’s only bookshop from demolition. A funny, accessible and absorbing first novel with a couple of feisty heroines, which explores a love of books, fighting for a cause and the perils of falling for a poser.

• Boom Boom

  Author: Jude Idada
  Publisher: Swift
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 9-10

  A heartwarming, heartbreaking story about one Nigerian family whose life is blighted by sickle-cell anaemia and a remarkable talking dog who helps in the search for a bone marrow donor.

• Boonie

  Author: Richard Masson
  Publisher: Hot Key Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  In a post-apocalyptic world, JD is growing up far from civilisation, out in the Dry Marsh. When the Silver Men kill his father and burn down his shack, JD heads for the City to find out why.

• BOOT: Small Robot Big Adventure

  Author: Shane Hegarty Illustrator: Ben Mantle
  Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  The heartwarming story of Boot, a junkyard toy, will hook readers from page one. Shane Hegarty has a magic touch with words and has crafted a story that is a true delight to read and will linger long after the book finishes.

• BOOT: The Rusty Rescue

  Author: Shane Hegarty Illustrator: Ben Mantle
  Publisher: Hodder
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  A hilarious, insightful, madcap adventure led by a close-knit band of renegade robots who must brave the perils of the city streets in search of yet another new nose for Gerry. 

• Boris Babysits

  Author: Sam Lloyd
  Publisher: Templar Publishing
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Join Boris as he tries his best to look after monster baby when monster mummy takes a trip to the shops. Kids will love this book with its adorable illustrations and the brilliant addition of a stick-on monster baby.

• Boris Saves the Show

  Author: Carrie Weston Illustrator: Tim Warnes
  Publisher: Oxford Unversity Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  It’s time for the school play and Mrs Cluck’s class are all very excited - except for Boris who is a bit shy.

• Bork

  Author: Rhys Kitson
  Publisher: Sunbird Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  In this charming picture book, one dog maintains that the right way to woof is to say “bork”. Desperate to persuade the international cast of dogs that think their way is the right way, it’s an uphill task until a cat arrives, and all the dogs unite to bork at it.

  ---

  Yn ogystal â thynnu sylw at synau gwahanol diddorol cŵn o ledled y byd, y bydd y pla…

• Borka

  Author: John Burnigham
  Publisher: Red Fox
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Borka is a goose born without feathers and when she can't join the other geese in their flight South, she goes on her own adventure

• Born to Dance

  Author: Jean Ure
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children’s Books
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 9+

  Maddy was born to dance. As the youngest daughter of a famous ballerina and a world-renowned choreographer, she has been training since the age of four. This sweet story, told from Maddy's point of view, is mysterious, exciting and highly enjoyable.

• Bottoms Up!

  Author: Jeanne Willis Illustrator: Adam Stower
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 5+

  A celebration of bottoms! Knickers are always hilarious to the young (and, secretly, their elders), but in her latest offering Willis questions the need for them.

• Bounce and Jiggle

  Author: Sanja Rescek
  Publisher: Childs Play
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 5+

  Each Baby Gym book features a range of rhymes accompanied by simple descriptions of associated movements and advice for the parent/carer.

• Box of Tricks

  Author: Katie Cleminson
  Publisher: Jonathan Cape
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Every child loves an empty box and here, with the help of some magic, it contains a fantasy birthday party.

• Boy

  Author: James Mayhew Illustrator: James Mayhew
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 5+

  Boy, a cave-boy, thinks the cave where he lives with his mother and father is too cold and dark. He tries a variety of other places to sleep, but all prove to be too dangerous.

• Boy 87

  Author: Ele Fountain
  Publisher: Pushkin Children’s
  Interest age: 10-11
  Reading age: 10+

  This is a timely and important book which illuminates the realities of life as a refugee. The horrors that 14-year-old Shif is escaping are all too real, but this is ultimately a story about the power of kindness and the strength of the human spirit.

• Boy Giant

  Author: Sir Michael Morpurgo
  Publisher: Harper Collins
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Under the masterful pen of Sir Michael Morpurgo, this is an easy and uncomplicated read, and the young reader certainly doesn’t need to know anything about, let alone have read, the original Gulliver’s Travels.

• Boy Meets Boy

  Author: David Levithan
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  This delightful high-school story is set in a town in which being a gay teenager is no more fraught with difficulty than being straight. 

• Boy Nobody

  Author: Allen Zadoff
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  Boy Nobody is a teenage assassin employed by a government organisation, The Program. But when he is assigned to kill the mayor of New York City, things change. .

• Boy Oh Boy

  Author: Cliff Leek Illustrator: Bene Rohlmann
  Publisher: Wide Eyed Editions
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Boy Oh Boy is an entertaining way to meet 30 positive male role models from throughout history. It will inspire all children to use their talents, express their passions and stand up for what they think is right. 

• Boy Underground

  Author: Isabelle Marinov
  Publisher: Sweet Cherry Publishing
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Hugo explores the tunnels and catacombs under Paris, discovering robbers, monsters and even just how brave he can be. Funny and warm, this is full of humanity.

• Boy Underwater

  Author: Adam Baron
  Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
  Interest age: 10-11
  Reading age: 10+

  Nine-year-old Cym uncovers some dark secrets hidden in his family’s past. The book highlights the immense flaws of grown-ups and the potency of post-traumatic stress disorder, but does so in a surprisingly light-hearted and readable package.

• Boy Zero Wannabe Hero: The Curse of the Catastrophic Cupcakes

  Author: Peter Millett
  Publisher: Faber Children's Books
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 6+

  The third in the Boy Zero series, this is a short chapter book which continues the story of Charlie Applejack, the world's newest and youngest superhero.

• Boy, Everywhere

  Author: A. M. Dassu
  Publisher: Old Barn Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  The story of Sami, a Syrian boy who is forced to leave his home with nothing when war strikes. 

• Boyband of the Apocalypse

  Author: Tom Nicoll Illustrator: David O’Connell
  Publisher: Stripes Publishing
  Interest age: 10-12
  Reading age: 10-12

  Pacey and page-turning, follow Sam on his quest for stardom – and saving the world (well, hopefully). Several twists and turns keep him, Lexi and his best friend Milo on their toes in a story that is both fun and funny, pulling out all the stops when it comes to boyband humour.

• Boys Don't Cry

  Author: Malorie Blackman
  Publisher: Corgi Children's
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 11+

  Dante is waiting for the postman. It's 'A' level results day and he has high hopes, but a knock on the door brings an old girlfriend and some news that will change his plans for good.

• Boys Don't Knit

  Author: T S Easton
  Publisher: Hot Key Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  'I'm aware that keeping a diary is considered part of the female domain, but in my life, with the family and friends I'm stuck with, it is the only reason I haven't run away and gone to live in the woods...'

• Boys Will be Human

  Author: Justin Baldoni
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 10+

  An excellent all-encompassing guide to being a boy, covering essential topics in a conversational tone. Sensible, sensitive and searingly honest.

• Boywatching

  Author: Chloe Bennet
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 7+

  This hilarious story of Chloe and her friends navigating their way through the highs and lows of teenage life is a highly entertaining read for younger teenagers

• Bracelet of Bones

  Author: Kevin Crossley-Holland
  Publisher: Quercus
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 9+

  Solveig is a fourteen-year-old Norwegian who, in 1036, follows her father to Constantinople, where he is a member of the Viking guard.

• Bramble Fox

  Author: Kathrin Tordasi Transated by Cathrin Wirtz
  Publisher: Pushkin Children’s
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  A fantasy thriller to take your breath away. Packed with beautifully imagined details that build a spellbinding world of magic, threat and terrifying danger, it will have you on the edge of your seat right to the last page.

• Brambly Hedge - Summer Story

  Author: Jill Barklem
  Publisher: Collins
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 7+

  Part of the classic Brambly Hedge series, which also includes Spring, Autumn and Winter.

• Brân ac Arwr y bws

  Author: Onjali Q.Rauf Adapted by Elidyr Jones
  Publisher: Rily
  Interest age: 8-9
  

  Fel arfer mae’r darllenydd yn uniaethu gyda’r prif gymeriad o’r cychwyn cyntaf ond yn y llyfr hwn mae’r awdur yn gofyn inni ymgysylltu â chymeriad sydd yn cynrychioli popeth nad ydym yn ei hoffi - bwli! Mae’r stori hon yn ein herio ni i weld y tu hwnt i’n rhagfarnau ac deall bod gan bawb ei stori ei hun, nid yn unig y prif gymeriad! 

  ---

   

  The reader …

• Brand New Boy

  Author: David Almond Illustrator: Marta Altes
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  There's something a bit weird about the new boy in class, George. Maybe it's something to do with the fact his ear just fell off. A funny, profound, and beautifully illustrated story from Skellig author David Almond.

• Brave as Can Be: a book of courage

  Author: Jo Witek Illustrator: Christine Roussey
  Publisher: Abrams Appleseed
  Interest age: 4-8
  Reading age: 6+

  As she grows up, a young girl finds effective ways to deal with things that frighten her. A charming, beautifully illustrated picture book, which encourages discussion with children on how to recognise and overcome their fears.

• Brave Little Bear

  Author: Steve Small
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Arlo the bear cub is nervous about leaving his cosy cave to travel to Spring Mountain with his sister and mum. A heartwarming picture book about courage and love, accompanied by beautifully atmospheric illustrations.  

• Brave Little Owl

  Author: Penny Little Illustrator: Sean Julian
  Publisher: Red Fox
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  Little Owl is frightened of learning to fly, but after a disastrous first attempt, she makes some new friends in the forest who have each conquered their own fears.

• Brave Molly

  Author: Brooke Boynton-Hughes
  Publisher: Chronicle Books
  Interest age: 4-6
  

  In this (almost) wordless picture book, a young girl’s anxiety is brought to life in dark shadowy figures that follow her around. Brave Molly will capture the attention of art fans, as well as being useful for children dealing with anxiety and fear-issues. 

• Bravo, Mr William Shakespeare!

  Author: Marcia Williams
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Illustrator Marcia Williams offers up lively illustrated retellings of some of Shakespeare's most famous plays in this entertaining picture book perfect for use in the classroom.

• Break the Mould

  Author: Sinéad Burke Illustrator: Natalie Byrne
  Publisher: Wren & Rook
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9+

  How can children learn to embrace their own individuality and accept others’ differences? This attractive guide encourages a young person to explore such questions, offering gentle advice in a bright, empowering and thoroughly accessible way.

• Breaking News

  Author: Nick Sheridan Illustrator: David O’Connell
  Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  Interest age: 9-13
  Reading age: 9+

  A perfect book for a budding news hound or any child who takes an interest in the world, this fun and stimulating read by a real-life news journalist is a great guide to what news actually is and how it works. 

• Breaking the Spell

  Author: Lari Don Illustrator: Cate James
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9+

  A wonderful collection of myths, legends and fairy tales from Scotland.

• Brenda is a Sheep

  Author: Morag Hood
  Publisher: Two Hoots
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Brenda might have sharp teeth and big claws, but she's definitely a sheep. Definitely. So why is she working on a mint sauce recipe...? A hilarious picture book with bold illustrations to match.

• Brian Has Dyslexia

  Author: Woody Fox Illustrator: Jenny Leigh
  Publisher: Holdane Mason
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 4+

  Not knowing his left from his right, and his bad headaches are also adding to his problems. Then, with some help from Dr Spot and a specialist teacher, the cause is found to be dyslexia and a range of new and fun solutions help Brian understand the condition and overcome many of the challenges it brings. One of Jenny Leigh’s excellent Doctor Spot serie…

• Brick-a-Breck

  Author: Julia Donaldson Illustrator: Philippe Dupasquier
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  Stephen really, truly loves cereal – morning, noon and night. Luckily, his mum works for Sunfield cereals, but disaster strikes when the factory closes.

• Bright Brown Baby: A Treasury

  Author: Andrea Davis Pinkney Illustrator: Brian Pinkney
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 0-8
  

  An empowering and tender collection of five different stories celebrating black and brown babies and families all over the world. 

• Bright Brown Baby: Peek-a-You!

  Author: Andrea Davis Pinkney Illustrator: Brian Pinkney
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  Babies love playing peek-a-boo, and this book guides parents and little ones in a fun game of hiding and peeking. Adding in extra activities such as "stomp", "shout" and "sing", and illustrations that show toddlers playing peekaboo with adults too, this short book is full of ideas for play.

• Bright Bursts of Colour

  Author: Matt Goodfellow. Illustrator: Aleksei Bitskoff
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Drawing on over 10 years’ experience of teaching in primary schools, Matt Goodfellow explores a vast range of topics in this fun and funky poetry collection, which features expressive black and white illustrations. 

• Bright Stars of Black British History

  Author: JT Williams Illustrator: Angela Vives
  Publisher: Thames and Hudson
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Engagingly told life stories of fourteen Black British people and their contributions to the world. 

• Brightstorm

  Author: Vashti Hardy
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9-11

  Twelve-year-old twins Maudie and Arthur’s world comes crashing in when their explorer dad is reported dead in his mission to get to South Polaris, and they race to restore the family name. A real edge-of-your-seat Victoriana romp.

• Brilliant

  Author: Roddy Doyle
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  A high-speed, high-adrenaline and highly surreal adventure which deals with the difficult topic of depression with a sensitive, humorous touch.

• Brilliant Black British History

  Author: Atinuke Illustrator: Kingsley Nebechi
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Encompassing British human history from the very first homo sapiens migrants (who were Black!), up to the present day, this beautiful book is informative, eye-opening and a must-have in a school library.

• Bringing Back Kay-Kay

  Author: Dev Kothari
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9-11

  When Lena’s older brother goes missing, she knows she must find him. But what secrets will she uncover? A gripping mystery set in contemporary India, with themes of family expectations and the importance of the arts.  

• Bringing the Summer

  Author: Julia Green
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 10+

  A gentle and moving story about friendship, growing up and making decisions as life starts to change.

• Britannica All New Children's Encyclopedia

  Author: Christopher Lloyd
  Publisher: What On Earth Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Exploring a wide range of topics with stunning illustration and real life photography, this brilliant encylopedia is divided into eight chapters: Universe, Earth, Matter, Life, Humans, Ancient & Medieval Times, Modern Times, and Today & Tomorrow. 

• Britannica’s 150 First Words

  Author: Claire Laties Davis Illustrator: Kasia Dudziuk
  Publisher: Britannica Books
  Interest age: 1-2
  

  With a useful and approachable foreword from Claire Laties Davis, a Speech and Language Therapist, this terrific large board book models early words and short phrases that are great to use with your child from waking to bedtime.

• Britannica’s Baby Encyclopedia

  Author: Sally Symes Illustrator: Hanako Clulow
  Publisher: Britannica Books
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  A colourful, fun introduction to the world around us. Babies are constantly learning and this book will help build vocabulary and an understanding of early learning concepts.

• British Wildlife

  Author: QED
  Publisher: QED
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7-9

  Nature lovers will adore British Wildlife, as it’s as comprehensive a compendium of animals you could come across in the UK.

• Britten & Brűlightly

  Author: Hannah Berry
  Publisher: Jonathan Cape
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 12+

  There are murder mysteries and there are murder mysteries, but this is a noir where nothing is black and white

• Broken Soup

  Author: Jenny Valentine
  Publisher: HarperCollins Childrens Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 9+

  When she meets Harper, a traveller from the US, and Bee, a newcomer to her school, Rowan rediscovers a life beyond mourning, a hope for restoring her family’s life, and a life beyond death for Jack.

• Bronze and Sunflower

  Author: Cao Wenxuan Illustrator: Meilo So Translator: Helen Wang
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 7-12
  Reading age: 10-12

  A classic, heartwarming tale set to the backdrop of the Chinese cultural revolution, with the timeless feels of Eva Ibbotson's Journey to the River Sea.

• Brother Eagle, Sister Sky: A message from Chief Seattle

  Author: Text adapted by Susan Jeffers Illustrations by Susan Jeffers
  Publisher: Puffin Books
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 5+

  This book uses illustrations to explore a much-adapted speech made by a Native American Chief over 150 years ago

• Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?

  Author: Bill Martin Jr Illustrator: Eric Carle
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  An all-time favourite that introduces different colours through simple text, presented in a satisfyingly repetitive pattern.

• Brownstone’s Mythical Collection: Arthur and the Golden Rope

  Author: Joe Todd-Stanton
  Publisher: Flying Eye Books
  Interest age: 6-10
  Reading age: 7-10

  Arthur goes to the great hall to help Thor catch the wicked Fenrir. There, he is set the almost impossible task of making a magical Golden Rope. A fantastic version of a Norse myth that falls between a picture book and a graphic novel.

• Brownstone's Mythical Collection: Marcy and the Riddle of the Sphinx

  Author: Joe Todd-Stanton
  Publisher: Flying Eye Books
  Interest age: 6-10
  Reading age: 7-9

  The second book in Joe Todd-Stanton’s Brownstone’s Mythical Collection stands alone well as a highly illustrated graphic novel for younger readers. The pictures are stunning and this is a real treat for kids that love adventure and quick reads.

• Brrr! Where Did the Dinosaurs Really Go?

  Author: Kes Gray Illustrator: Nick East
  Publisher: Hachette Children’s Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  The Ice Age is coming, and all the dinosaurs are getting worried about the lowering temperatures. It’s even too cold for the woolly mammoths! So, the dinosaurs decide that they should start knitting some nice cosy jumpers.

• Brrrr: A Book of Winter

  Author: Il Sung Na
  Publisher: Meadowside Children's Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  When snow falls on the ground, and all the trees are bare, everything changes ... including the white rabbit!

• Bruised

  Author: Siobhan Parkinson
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  Fourteen-year-old Jonathan lives with his eight-year-old sister Julie and their mother who is a drunk. One day Ma hits Julie - Jonathan decides the only way to protect her is to run away.

• Bubble and Squeak

  Author: James Mayhew Illustrator: Clara Vulliamy
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  Two major figures in the children’s literature world come together on this loveable book.

• Bubble Trouble

  Author: Margaret Mahy Illustrator: Polly Dunbar
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Word and image magically combine in this amusing fantasy. of a baby inadvertently (or purposely?) wafted away in a giant bubble blown by his older sister.

• Budgie

  Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: David Barrow
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 5+

  A lyrical story about Miles, who finds and looks after a lost little budgie. With a dyslexia friendly format and effortlessly inclusive characters.

  ---

  Mae Miles wrth ei fodd yn dringo coed wrth ei stad, ond mae Mr Buxton ei gymydog wastad yn gweiddi arno i stopio.

• Buffalo Bird Girl

  Author: S D Nelson
  Publisher: Abram Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Buffalo Bird Girl lived in the 1800s and was one of the Hidatsa People, a Native American community. Here, she describes in her own words how she lived.

• Buffalo Soldier

  Author: Tanya Landman
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 11+

  A moving, gritty and convincing teenage historical drama where love and loyalty take on prejudice and greed.

• Bug Hunt

  Author: Salina Yoon
  Publisher: Stirling Children’s Books
  Interest age: 2-4
  

  This lift-the-flap book uses rhyme to teach young children about different types of insects. The illustrations are vibrant and the bugs are instantly recognisable, while the text is simple and easy to remember.

• Bugs (First Word Fold-Out Explorers)

  Author: Loulou & Tummie
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  In this ingenious large fold-out board book, illustrators Loulou and Tummie bring young readers some of their first experiences of size comparisons with big spreads featuring colourful and graphic insects. Children can start to learn how to assess measurements of various kinds, including width, noise, length, height and brightness, by comparing the illustrat…

• Build a… Butterfly

  Author: Kiki Ljung and the Natural History Museum
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  This sturdy board book with bold, colourful illustrations guides the reader through the life cycle of a butterfly, slotting together to create a striking large-scale model of a painted lady. Written in conjunction with the Natural History Museum.

• Build Your Dream Team: My Greatest Football Team Ever

  Author: Tom Fordyce Illustrator: Kieran Carroll
  Publisher: Wren & Rook
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  An insightful, funny and fascinating book written by a renowned sports journalist, giving football fans the opportunity to be the manager of their own dream team.

• Bully

  Author: Laura Vaccaro Seeger
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  An exceptional combination of simple, bold artwork and spare, but powerful, text in this book for bullies and the bullied.

• Bumble & Snug and the Angry Pirates

  Author: Mark Bradley
  Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  When Bumble and Snug accidentally give away a valuable diamond, the future of Bugbopolis is at risk - can they work together to solve the problem? A really fun, colourful graphic novel.

• Bumble & Snug and the Excited Unicorn

  Author: Mark Bradley
  Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 5+

  Bumble and Snug have teamed up with a unicorn! But when the unicorn creates chaos with too much magical ‘help’, the friends must find a way to still have fun, but consider others. Fantastic fun.

  ---

  Mae Bumble a Snug yn ffrindiau gorau. Mae Bumble yn 50% brwdfrydedd, 50% egni; a Snug yn 33% caredigrwydd, 33% gofalgarwch, 33% brêns.

• Bumble-Ardy

  Author: Maurice Sendak
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Sendak explores the joyfulness and anarchic spirit of young children

• Bumblebee Grumblebee

  Author: David Elliot
  Publisher: Gecko Press
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  This fun book encourages readers to have fun with words and is packed full of bold and familiar illustrations.

• Bumface

  Author: Morris Gleitzman
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 10-14
  Reading age: 11+

  An extremely funny story, with a touch of poignancy.

• Bumpus Jumpus Dinosaurumpus!

  Author: Tony Mitton llustrated by Guy Parker-Rees
  Publisher: Hachette
  

  Join in as the dinosaurs stir up a dinosaurumpus! Instantly appealing, with bright and lively illustrations, and Tony Mitton's fantastic poetry and rhyming words.

• Bunheads

  Author: Sophie Flack
  Publisher: Atom Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  Whether you're interested in ballet or not, this readable story of self-discovery is absorbing and well-observed.

• Bunker Diary

  Author: Kevin Brooks
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 15+
  Reading age: 14+

  Linus wakes up in a cold, dark, underground bunker with no recollection of how he got there.

• Bunnies in a Boat

  Author: Philip Ardagh
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  Reading age: 3+

  Follow a group of bunnies as they cause choas around the bay in Sunny Town.

• Bunnies in a Sleigh: A Crazy Christmas Story!

  Author: Philip Ardagh Illustrator: Ben Mantle
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  This absolutely brilliant Christmas romp of a picture book is a real delight. Ardagh’s rhyming text rolls off the tongue very satisfactorily and there are lots of nice repetitive moments that invite little ones to repeat along and even shout out – particularly when the sleigh appears to be headed straight for a clock tower! Ben Mantle’s lovely illustrations …

• Bunny Loves to Learn

  Author: Peter Bently Illustrator: Emma Foster and Deborah Melmon
  Publisher: Parragon Books
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 5-8

  Four friends are asked to dress up from someone from the past and create something to do with their respective character.

• Bunny Vs Monkey

  Author: Jamie Smart
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Packed full of hilarious short stories, this bumper collection of cartoons covers an entire year of adventures for Bunny and Monkey. Off-the-wall characters, wacky storylines and hilarious comic-strip illustrations ensure there are plenty of laughs on every page.

• Bunny vs Monkey and the League of Doom!

  Author: Jamie Smart
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 7-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Presented as a series of short comic strip stories, with themes as diverse as filling Bunny’s house with custard and distorting the fabric of time and space, the Bunny vs Monkey universe is wildly imaginative and packed with anarchic humour and plentiful fart and poo jokes.

• Burger Boy

  Author: Alan Durant Illustrator: Mei Matsuoka
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  Benny is a young boy who loves burgers. In fact he eats nothing else. Then one day his mother's warning comes true - he turns into one.

• Buried Alive!

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt and Sue Heap
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  This humorous tale sensitively highlights issues such as friendship and bullying.

• Buried Thunder

  Author: Tim Bowler
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 9+

  A chilling tale of a fifteen-year-old whose premonitions about murders may be construed as the outcome of uncertainty in her own life.

• Burn Mark

  Author: Laura Powell
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  This supernatural thriller is set in an alternate modern day London in which witchcraft exists, but those who have 'the fae' have become a mistrusted, persecuted underclass.

• Burning Issy

  Author: Melvin Burgess
  Publisher: Anderson Press
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Issy’s voice lies at the heart of this gripping, often gruelling novel based on the Pendle witchcraft trials

• Burning Magic

  Author: Joshua Khan
  Publisher: Disney Hyperion
  Interest age: 9-13
  Reading age: 9+

  The third book in Joshua Khan’s popular Shadow Magic series, Burning Magic is an action-packed adventure where mythical monsters and breathtaking danger leap from practically every page.

  Lily, ‘the witch queen’, along with her friends Thorn and K’leef (and of course Hades, Thorn’s giant, camel-eating bat) are far from Castle Gloom, visiting Nahas in the Sult…

• Burping Bertha

  Author: Michael Rosen Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 5-8
  Reading age: 6+

  One day, nine-year-old Bertha realises that when she burps, she can move things with a kind of telekinetic force: apples, footballs and awful teacher Mr Fobnitch’s glasses. But what could she do if she practised and refined this incredible talent?

• Bus Stop Baby

  Author: Fleur Hitchcock
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9-12

  Amy is totally shocked when she finds a baby abandoned at the local bus stop. The police and hospital quickly take over, but Amy’s determined to find the mother and begins investigating. An emotionally powerful and thought-provoking story.

• Business for Beginners

  Author: Lara Bryan and Rose Hall Illustrator: Kellan Stover
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  There’s a lot more to business than power suits – businesses come in all shapes and sizes and are everywhere around us, from young people selling cookies at the school fair to the people who sold you your mobile phone.

• Business Pig

  Author: Andrea Zuill
  Publisher: Sterling Books
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 6+

  Jasper isn’t like other little pigs: he was born in a suit and would rather work on spreadsheets than dig for acorns. An entertaining picture book with a rare business-oriented role model – one that may give children an idea of what adults do at work, too! 

• Busy Beach

  Author: Rebecca Finn
  Publisher: Campbell Books
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 6+

  This is a brilliantly fun interactive book which uses sturdy tabs to allow children to throw a ball, blow a colourful windmill and move the ice cream cart.

• Busy Boats

  Author: Susan Steggall
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 6+

  Explore the goings-on of a lively harbour bustling with all kinds of busy boats, from yachts to rowing boats to ocean liners.

• Busy Chinese New Year

  Author: Campbell Books Illustrator: Ilaria Falorsi
  Publisher: Campbell Books
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  A fun interactive board book about Chinese New Year – perfect for little hands.

• Busy Day: Farmer

  Author: Dan Green
  Publisher: Ladybird
  Interest age: 1-3
  

  Busy Day: Farmer follows a farmer over the course of the day and finishes with him tucked up in bed. Described as "action play book", there are some fun and inventive touches and toddlers will love to turn the flaps and join in with the jobs on the farm.

• Busy Easter

  Author: n/a Illustrator: Jill Howarth
  Publisher: Campbell Books
  Interest age: 1-2
  

  Easter is here, and it's time to have fun! Toddlers will love joining an Easter egg hunt and counting chicks in this push, pull and slide board book.

• Busy Grow

  Author: N/A Illustrator: Diana Bedoya
  Publisher: Campbell Books
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  A little girl and a little boy plant seeds in the earth and water them. Over time, the plants grow and start to produce flowers, and then fruit and vegetables! This excellent board book for toddlers is full of lovely, thick cardboard pull-outs and wheels to turn.

• Busy Storytime

  Author: n/a Illustrator: Jean Claude
  Publisher: Campbell Books
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  It’s storytime! And what’s better than a story? Perhaps a story that comes to life as you push, pull, turn and slide the sturdy tabs.

• But Excuse Me That is My Book

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: Puffin Books
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  Children will join Charlie, Lola and their friends on a trip to the library to look at all the different types of books that Lola might like to read. It is a warm and funny story about family, friends and the importance of trying new things.

• Butter

  Author: Erin Jade Lange
  Publisher: Faber Children's Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  Bullied at school, and weighing over 400 lbs, Butter feels he has nothing left to live for, and announces he will eat himself to death live on the internet.

• Butterfly Grave

  Author: Anne Cassidy
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Having been separated as young children, Rose and Joshua have recently become close as they try to find out what happened the night their parents disappeared.

• Butterfly Summer

  Author: Anne-Marie Conway
  Publisher: Usborne Publishing
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 10+

  When Becky moves to the sleepy village of Oakbridge, she can’t imagine how she will fill the long empty days of the summer holidays. Then she discovers the beautiful Butterfly Garden,  and befriends the mysterious Rosa May.

• By Any Other Name

  Author: Laura Jarratt
  Publisher: Electric Monkey
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  Holly is a new girl in a new school, with a new home and a new identity - but one wrong move could put her in terrible danger.

• By Royal Command

  Author: Mary Hooper
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 9-14
  Reading age: 9+

  In the court magician's household, Lucy Walden, a young maidservant, has attracted the attention of none other than Her Grace, Queen Elizabeth.

• By the Light of the Moon

  Author: Tom Percival
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  A reassuringly simple yet enchanting story, brought to life with appealing illustrations, to allay children's worries about moving house and creating a home.

• BZRK

  Author: Michael Grant
  Publisher: Electric Monkey
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  Presenting a bleak and disturbing vision of the future, BZRK is a gripping, action-packed rollercoaster ride, which will not disappoint Grant's existing fan base. With strong language and scenes of violence and cruelty, it is not for the faint-hearted, but as well as hard-hitting action, there are some complex and thought- provoking ideas in play.

• Discovery Atlas: Amazing inventors, explorers and artists from all around the globe

  Author: Thiago de Moraes
  Publisher: Alison Green Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  It might feel as though humans have lived on earth forever, but we are in fact a relatively new development in the earth’s history: modern humans have only been around for approximately 300,000 years, which isn’t very long at all, if you remember that our planet formed 4.55 billion years ago.

• The Book of Legends

  Author: Lenny Henry
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 9-11
  

  This is a pacy fantasy adventure, jam-packed with groan-making jokes, and touchingly dedicated to Lenny Henry’s own childhood local library in Dudley.