Books beginning with: I
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I (Don't) Like Snakes
Author: Nicola Davies Illustrator: Luciano Lozano
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 5+
Reading age: 6+This is an unusual and amusing tale about a girl who doesn't share her family's enthusiasm for snakes. However, as they tell her more about the incredible reptiles, she has a change of heart.
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I am a Poetato
Author: John Hegley
Publisher: Frances Lincoln
Interest age: 7-12
Reading age: 8This collection of poetry is arranged in A to Z order. It includes funny, touching, fascinating and totally original poems from the man dubbed ‘the laureate of comedy.
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I am Actually a Penguin
Author: Sean Taylor Illustrator: Kasia Matyjaszek
Publisher: Templar Publishing
Interest age: 0-5
The little girl in this story LOVES dressing up and pretending to be something new – and, last week, she got a penguin costume. A funny and vibrant story that rings true for any child who loves to immerse themselves in play.
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I Am Bat
Author: Morag Hood
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 2-5
This brilliantly funny, fruit-filled book captures the fickleness and changing whims of childhood in a few short sentences and brightly coloured images. Bat is a fully formed character from page one, full of quickly changing emotions and bursting with vitality.
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I am Bear
Author: Ben Bailey Smith and Sav Akyüz
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 3-5
Meet Bear: the rebel hero of the forest. This charming and anarchic picture book celebrates a mischievious and loveable character.
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I Am Brown
Author: Ashok Banker Illustrator: Sandhya Prabhat
Publisher: Lantana
Interest age: 3-5
In this adorable picture book, a little girl celebrates her beautiful brown skin and imagines all the possibilities life has for her and her friends. Celebrating diversity and the variety of faiths, clothes, languages, passions and cultures of a group of brown skinned children, this is a delightful and upbeat book and a lovely one to have at storytime at sch…
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I am Cat
Author: Jackie Morris
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 7+A cat curls up asleep, warm and cosy, and while it sleeps, it dreams. It is a tiger roaming the jungle, a cheetah racing across African plains...
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I Am Henry Finch
Author: Alexis Deacon Illustrator: Viviane Schwarz
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 4The finches do the same thing every day: they say good morning, they say good afternoon and good night. That is, unless the beast comes - then it's chaos.
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I Am Invited to a Party
Author: Mo Willems
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+In this story Piggie is invited to her first party, and Gerald continually worries that she won’t have exactly the right costume.
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I am Malala
Author: Malala Yousafzai
Publisher: Hachette Children's Group
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 13+This is the real life story of one of the most incredible and inspirational young people in the world. Reading this book might just change the way you think and feel.
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I Am Not a Copycat!
Author: Ann Bonwill Illustrator: Simon Rickerty
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 6+Hugo the hippo enjoys practising his water ballet but finds it very annoying that Bella the bird copies his every move. She even dresses like him and follows him to the swimming pool.
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I Am NOT a Dinosaur!
Author: Jonny Lambert and American Museum of Natural History Illustrator: Will Lach
Publisher: Sterling Children’s Books
Interest age: 4-8
Reading age: 7+This interesting, fun and informative non-fiction book introduces a range of creatures which existed before, during and after the reign of the dinosaurs - including woolly mammoths, pterosaurs and Neanderthals.
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I Am Not A Label
Author: Cerrie Burnell
Publisher: Wide Eyed Editions
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+In this powerful and stylishly attractive non-fiction book, Cerrie Burnell introduces the reader to 34 disabled role models.
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I Am Number Four
Author: Pittacus Lore
Publisher: Penguin Books
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+The Nine are sole survivors from the planet Lorien who fled to earth when hostile Mogadarians invaded. They try to live unnoticed, constantly moving, adopting new identities.
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I Am Still Not a Loser
Author: Jim Smith
Publisher: Jelly Pie
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 7+In the second installment of Jim Smith's popular Barry Loser series, Barry has a new problem in the shape of the aptly-named Gordon Smugly.
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I Am the Music Man
Author: Debra Potter
Publisher: Child's Play
Interest age: 0+
Reading age: 5+A large book featuring holes through which you can peek to spot which of the thoroughly inclusive band of musicians is playing each instrument.
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I am Too Absolutely Small for School
Author: Lauren Child
Publisher: Hachette
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+Lola is nearly big enough to go to school. But in her opinion she is still really quite small, and has far too many important things to keep her extremely busy at home.
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I Bet I Can Make You Laugh
Author: Joshua Seigal and Friends Illustrator: Tim Wesson
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 7-9
Reading age: 8+Featuring a range of children's poets and traditional verses from cultures around the world, this is a great collection for older primary kids.
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I Can Catch A Monster
Author: Bethan Woollvin
Publisher: Two Hoots
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 4+Bo is an adventurous, strong and smart girl, yet when her rather horrid brothers Ivar and Erik go monster hunting, they won’t let her come with them. So, Bo decides to go monster hunting on her own, but soon finds that the monsters she comes across – a Griffin and the Kraken – are actually quite friendly...
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I Can Do It! A Book of 5 Fastenings
Author: Patricia Hegarty. Illustrator: Hilli Kushnir
Publisher: Caterpillar Books
Interest age: 2-5
Buttons, shoelaces, velcro, poppers and zips: they can all be tough to get used to, especially for little hands, but this book is here to help. Bright and zingy illustrations, straightforward instructions and a fun feel means that really little ones can enjoy playing with the interactive elements and slightly older ones can perfect their fastening…
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I Can Do It! Look After My Pet
Author: Rurt Martin Illustrator: Richard Watson
Publisher: Templar
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 6+Toddlers can look after their pets! They can stroke the cat, or play gently with the hamster. They can help to feed the dog, clean the fish tank or take a sick pet to the vet.
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I Can Only Draw Worms
Author: Will Mabbitt
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 3-6
This genuinely hilarious book is brilliantly simple, based on the idea that the author-illustrator can only draw very childlike worms. Highly recommended.
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I Can’t Sleep!
Author: Stephanie Blake Illustrator: Sarah Ardizzone
Publisher: Gecko Press
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 6+Bunny brothers Simon and Casper spend an exciting day building an amazing outdoor hut. This delightful sibling adventure, with wonderfully expressive illustrations, is full of warmth, love and humour.
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I Can't Hear Like You
Author: Althea Illustrator: Bridget Dowty
Publisher: Catnip Publishing
A deaf boy introduces us to his life and school. The page numbers and many of the words in the text are signed and there is also a full signed alphabet.
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I Capture the Castle
Author: Dodie Smith
Publisher: Penguin
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+17-year-old Cassandra lives an eccentric existence with her bohemian family in a crumbling castle in the English countryside, in this delightful classic coming-of-age story.
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I Dare You
Author: Nicole Maubert
Publisher: Twirl
How brave are you? Do you dare to open this book and find out what is hiding inside? Do you dare – gulp! – to reach out and touch those creatures?
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I Didn't Do It!
Author: Michael Foreman
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 4-5
Milo wants to get to the big bike race in town - and he's in such a hurry, he manages to leave a path of destruction in his wake. A lovely picture book which gently encourages children to think about the consequences of their actions.
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I Don’t Believe It, Archie!
Author: Andrew Norris Illustrator: Hannah Shaw
Publisher: David Fickling Books
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 8+Join Archie for a week of mayhem, full of convoluted and very funny situations that ensue
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I Don’t Want Curly Hair
Author: Laura Ellen Anderson
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 4-5
Colour, vivacity and energy animate the often hilarious illustrations, depicting the wildness of the curls and their owner's frustration in this funny, engaging story about accepting who you are.
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I Don't Know What to Call My Cat
Author: Simon Philip Illustrator: Ella Bailey
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd
Interest age: 3-4
The girl in this book has got a new pet cat, but has absolutely no idea what to call it. This picture book provides some hearty chuckles and the illustrations have a lovely, big-eyed 'cartoony' feel to them, choc-a-bloc with amusing details.
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I Don't Like Books. Never. Ever. The End.
Author: Emma Perry Illustrator: Sharon Davey
Publisher: David Fickling
Interest age: 4-5
Mabel is adamant that she doesn't like books, but people keep giving them to her! She stacks books to make ladders, piles them up as doorstops, and sledges down the stairs on them - but she won't read them. Until, one night, the books take her on a magical journey of their own...
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I Don't Want to be a Pea!
Author: Ann Bonwill Illustrator: Simon Rickerty
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+Friends Hugo the hippo and Bella the bird are excited about going to the Fairytale Fancy Dress Party together. The only problem is, they can't decide on a costume...
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I Don't Want to Go to Bed
Author: Tony Ross
Publisher: Harper Collins
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 6+Here is another hugely popular Little Princess story written with great humour and understanding of small children.
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I Don't Want to Go to School
Author: Stephanie Blake
Publisher: Gecko Press
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 4+Parents might find it a useful tool to relieve any pre-school fears, and Simon is a brilliant character that deserves to reach a wide audience.
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I Don't Want to Wash My Hands!
Author: Tony Ross
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+The Little Princess has been playing in the garden where she has got dirty. Now she needs to wash her hands before she eats her cake - but she doesn't want to.
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I Funny: A Middle School Story
Author: James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein Illustrator: Laura Park
Publisher: Young Arrow
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 8+Jamie Grimm loves to tell jokes. His friends and his Uncle think he's so funny that he should enter the 'Planet's Funniest Kid Comic' contest. But Jamie knows that his mind might go blank when faced with an audience.
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I Got a Crocodile
Author: Nicola Killen
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+There was once a little girl who always wanted a brother or sister. Instead, she got a crocodile. This was quite a surprise.
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I Hate School
Author: Jeanne Willis Illustrator: Tony Ross
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 5+
Reading age: 6+A deliciously wicked rhyming account of the dreadful experiences at school of young Honor Brown, where every day, she claims, she faces food poisoning, beatings, sharks and monsters.
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I Have an Orange Juicy Drink
Author: Andrew Sanders
Publisher: Fat Fox
Interest age: 0-3
Porker has an orange juicy drink, but there's no chance he's going to get to drink it in peace. This book is wonderfully vibrant - and the story is funny enough to make parents chuckle, as well as kids.
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I Have No Secrets
Author: Penny Joelson
Publisher: Egmont Children’s Books
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+Fourteen-year-old Jemma has severe cerebral palsy and is non-verbal. She lives with her foster family and has a cherished friend in her carer Sarah. But with Dan, Sarah's boyfriend, things aren't what they seem. A fast-paced and accessible thriller.
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I Have the Right to be a Child
Author: Alain Serres Illustrator: Aurelia Fronty Translator: Sarah Ardizzone
Publisher: Phoenix Yard
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 7+Endorsed by Amnesty International UK, this beautiful picture book details the rights of every child in words that are easy for young readers to understand.
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I Heart Bedtime (Martha and the Bunny Brothers)
Author: Clara Vulliamy
Publisher: HarperCollins
- Martha has a lot of fun while getting her two brothers, Monty and Pip, off to bed!
- Colourful and detailed illustrations that young children will love to explore.
- Enjoy singing 'The Bedtime Bunnies Song!' together.
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I Heart Holidays (Martha and the Bunny Brothers)
Author: Clara Vulliamy
Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
- Read about Martha and her little bunny brothers on their splashy, sunny holiday!
- Colourful and detailed illustrations that young children will love to explore.
- Follow Martha as she stays upbeat while trying to entertain her brothers.
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I is for Iran
Author: Shirin Adl Illustrator: Kamyar Adl
Publisher: Frances Lincoln
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 8+Another letter in Frances Lincoln’s World Alphabet series
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I Killed Father Christmas
Author: Anthony McGowan Illustrator: Chris Riddell
Publisher: Little Gems
Interest age: 6-9
Reading age: 7+This enchanting festive tale is a poignant reminder of what Christmas is really about – love and kindness. With Christmas jokes and games hidden in the jacket flaps, this delightful tale is sure to become a firm Christmas favourite.
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I Knew You Were Trouble
Author: Paige Toon
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 9+Sixteen-year-old Jessie Jefferson has discovered something the rest of the world has yet to find out: her dad is a world-famous rock star. A fun and exciting page turner, this is the perfect teen holiday read.
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I Like Animals... What Jobs Are There?
Author: Steve Martin Illustrator: Roberto Blefari
Publisher: Ivy Kids
Interest age: 6-11
Reading age: 7+This informative non-fiction picture book provides invaluable information for children who are considering an animal-related career.
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I Like Bees, I Don’t Like Honey
Author: Sam Bishop Illustrator: Fiona Lumbers
Publisher: Faber & Faber
Interest age: 4-6
Reading age: 5+This is a joyous book that celebrates what makes us unique. Written in a lively rhyme and with beautiful and inclusive illustrations, it will help you talk to your children about their likes and dislikes, and rejoice in their individuality.
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I Like Books
Author: Anthony Browne
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 4+They should chuckle at the illustrations of the fat books and thin books, be inspired by the books about space and make their own peculiar noises when the chimp is enjoying a song book.
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I Like It When
Author: Mary Murphy
Publisher: Red Wagon
Interest age: 1-4
Reading age: 5+A touching and heart-warming book, illustrated in dramatic primary colours.
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I Like To Put Food in My Welly
Author: Jason Korsner Illustrator: Max Low
Publisher: Graffeg
Interest age: 3-5
Children will adore this brilliantly surreal book of poems, which get sillier for the longer you read them. Korsner’s word play is also ideal for helping little ones learn when short sentences are right or wrong!
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I Love Bugs
Author: Emma Dodd
Publisher: Orchard Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 7+A large, bright, creepy-crawly bug safari through a little boy’s garden, with a final spread which shows how we often react to them.
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I Love Halloween
Author: Giles Andreae Illustrator: Emma Dodd
Publisher: Orchard
Interest age: 2-4
This little boy has a brilliant time taking part in all the Halloween fun, but just like any other day, Mum and Dad are on hand to make sure his reliable nightly routine stays on track. The illustrations are sweet and the book has lovely singsong rhymes.
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I Love My Daddy
Author: Giles Andreae Illustrator: Emma Dodd
Publisher: Orchard Books
Interest age: 1+
Reading age: 5+Picture book favourites Giles Andreae and Emma Dodd team up to celebrate the relationship between a child and their father in this delightful board book.
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I Love my Mummy
Author: Sebastien Braun
Publisher: Boxer Books Ltd
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+Shortlisted for the Booktrust Early Years Awards 2006, this is a stunningly illustrated celebration of motherhood.
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I Love My Mummy
Author: Giles Andreae Illustrator: Emma Dodd
Publisher: Orchard Books
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 6+What is it about Mummies that makes them so lovable and so very special?
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I Love You
Author: Giles Andreae Illustrator: Emma Dodd
Publisher: Orchard Books
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 4+Whether it’s playing in the garden or eating ice-cream, this baby delights in experiencing everything around it.
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I Love You
Author: Clemency Pearce Illustrator: Rosalind Beardshaw
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 1-4
This beautifully illustrated book about forest animals shares a very important lesson: that those three little words can make a huge difference to someone feeling blue.
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I Love You (Nearly Always)
Author: Anna Llenas
Publisher: Templar
Interest age: 2-5
Roly is a woodlouse and Rita is a firefly - opposites attract, but sometimes their differences get annoying, so they're going to have to learn to compromise! Ingenious paper engineering and a great message make this a lovely title to share.
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I Love You Already!
Author: Jory John Illustrator: Benji Davies
Publisher: HarperCollins Children’s Books
Interest age: 4-6
Reading age: 6+Duck is desperate to spend a fun-filled day with his friend, but Bear just wants to be by himself. This vibrantly illustrated tale about friendship is full of humour and warmth.
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I Love You Bunny
Author: Alina Surnaite
Publisher: Lincoln Children's Books
Interest age: 4-7
Reading age: 5+It's bedtime for Suzy, but she's scared of monsters - and things get even more scary when Bunny disappears during the night! A warm story that will reassure little ones who are worried about monsters in the shadows.
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I Love You Dino-Daddy
Author: Mark Sperring Illustrator: Sam Lloyd
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 2-5
Reading age: 5+This celebration of all the fun that fathers have with their little ones is a lovely way to tell Dad just how much he's loved.
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I Love You More And More
Author: Nicky Benson Illustrator: Jonny Lambert
Publisher: Little Tiger
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+Bear and Cub love roaming through their world. And as they roam, Bear explains how much she loves Cub. The deceptively simple rhyming text celebrates the solidity of this parent and child bond, with stylish double-page illustrations.
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I Love You, Baby
Author: Claire Freedman Illustrator: Judi Abbot
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 1-5
This celebration of the love a parent has for their child is perfect for cuddles, as all sorts of baby animals learn that they will always be loved - no matter what.
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I Love You, Blue Kangaroo!
Author: Emma Chichester Clark
Publisher: Andersen Press
- This classic story is about the loss of a favourite toy.
- Blue Kangaroo is forgotten when new toys arrive but soon Lily misses her old friend.
- The book is beautifully illustrated.
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I Love You, Father Christmas
Author: Giles Andreae
Publisher: Orchard
Interest age: 1+
Reading age: 5+A sweet picture book, full of engaging rhyme about one child's love for Father Christmas.
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I Love You, Stick Insect
Author: Chris Naylor-Ballesteros
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 4-7
Reading age: 5+Stick Insect has fallen in love with another stunning Stick Insect - the only problem is, it's actually a stick. Enjoy hilarious, expressive illustrations in this amusing story.
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I Need A New Bum!
Author: Dawn McMillan Illustrator: Ross Kinnaird
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 4-5
The boy in this hilarious rhyming story has a problem - he needs a new bum! Luckily, when it comes to finding a new bottom, the possibilities are endless...
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I Need a Wee!
Author: Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 3-7
Reading age: 5+Alan the bear is having a fantastic time at the funfair until he starts dancing in that unmistakeable way and his friends have to help him find somewhere he can have a wee. But unfortunately there's nowhere to go, until Alan stumbles onto a stage and manages to win a most useful (and capacious) trophy.
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I Never Liked Wednesdays
Author: Roger McGough Illustrator: Michael Broad
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 7-12
Reading age: 7A hilarious tale about two young boys getting up to mischief and into scrapes in latter-day Liverpool, by the award-winning poet, playwright and author, Roger McGough.
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I Really Want That Unicorn
Author: Fabi Santiago
Publisher: Orchard Books
Interest age: 3-5
Chloe REALLY wants the Mellow Yellow unicorn in the toyshop window, and she's determined to win it! This story about competitive kids is full of expressive detail, fabulous cakes and towering castles – tons of fun and a great message for little ones.
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I Really Want to See You, Grandma
Author: Taro Gomi
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Interest age: 3-5
Yumi and her grandmother have the same great idea at the same time: they want to see each other! Simple and lovely with a warm colour palette, Taro Gomi has created another wonderful book about everyday life, with an enduring message that love conquers all.
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I Really Want to Shout!
Author: Simon Philip Illustrator: Lucia Gaggiotti
Publisher: Templar
Interest age: 4-5
A brilliant picture book about anger with clever rhymes, a repeated refrain and rib-ticklingly funny illustrations which are instantly appealing.
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I Really Want to Win
Author: Simon Philip Illustrator: Lucia Gaggiotti
Publisher: Templar
Interest age: 3-5
Another joyful story from Simon Philips with an important message that taking part in competitions is what counts, rather than winning shiny medals.
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I Say Boo, You Say Hoo
Author: John Kane
Publisher: Templar Books
Interest age: 4-8
The rules are simple: if you see the colour blue, you must shout out Stinky Poo! If you see a tree, you have to shout ME! Sounds easy enough - but things get sillier and sillier in this hilarious call and response book.
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I Say OOH You Say AAH
Author: John Kane
Publisher: Templar Books
Interest age: 5-7
Reading age: 5+A brilliant call-and-response book, which is perfect for fun with kids who can remember and relish all its chaotic rules.
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I See a Darkness
Author: Reinhard Kleist
Publisher: Self Made Hero
Interest age: 15+
Reading age: 15+This graphic novel presents Cash as we know him: dangerous, possessed and full of music.
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I See You Baby
Author: Kevin Brooks
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 7+This is an engaging and funny short story by two brilliant writers for young people. It is also dyslexia friendly.
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I Spy on the Farm
Author: Edward Gibbs
Publisher: Brubaker, Ford & Friends
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+What better place to play a game of ‘I Spy’ than down on the farm, which is full of colourful and noisy animals?
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I Spy With My Little Eye
Author: Edward Gibbs
Publisher: Brubaker, Ford & Friends
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 4+This vibrant picture book transforms the familiar game 'I Spy' into an exotic journey into a world of glowing colour, inhabited by amazing animals.
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I Swapped My Brother on the Internet!
Author: Jo Simmons iIllustrator: Nathan Reed
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 7-11
Reading age: 7+Every child with a sibling should read this book. This cautionary tale will make children yelp in agreement, roll around with laughter but ultimately leave them appreciating their brother or sister a little bit more.
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I Thought I Saw A... Lion!
Author: Lydia Nichols
Publisher: Templar
Interest age: 0-3
This cute board book follows a lion all around town as he hides around various places. The illustrations are cool and modern, and robust production means little hands can enjoy the sturdy sliding tabs without damage.
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I Totally Don't Want to Play
Author: Ann Bonwill Illustrator: Simon Rickerty
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Interest age: 2-5
Reading age: 7+Hugo the hippo, is looking forward to spending time skating with his friend, Bella, but she's made friends with a new friend and Hugo feels left out.
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I Want a Bunny!
Author: Tony Ross
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 3-5
This new instalment in The Little Princess’ adventures reminds children of the responsibilities of owning a pet, as well as depicting the kind of “frenemy” friendship that children often experience. Totally relatable for children, as well as making us laugh.
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I Want a Friend!
Author: Tony Ross
Publisher: Andersen Press
Meet one of the great characters of children's books as Little Princess starts school.
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I Want A Sister!
Author: Tony Ross
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 2-5
Reading age: 5+The Little Princess is pleased to hear about the new baby - but only if it's a sister.
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I Want My Hat Back
Author: Jon Klassen
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 4-6
A bear sets out in search of his hat - he loves his hat and he wants it back
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I Want My Light on!
Author: Tony Ross
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+No way is the Little Princess turning her light out at bedtime - 'I'm not so much afraid of the DARK... I'm more afraid of ghosts'.
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I Want My Potty!
Author: Tony Ross
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+The Little Princess hates nappies, and thinks there must be something better. This is classic picture book entertainment, which will be especially appreciated by any children who are learning to love their potty!
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I Want Spaghetti!
Author: Stephanie Black
Publisher: Gecko Press
Interest age: 4-8
Reading age: 6+Simon, the little rabbit, will only eat one thing…spaghetti!
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I Want to Win!
Author: Tony Ross
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+The Little Princess is used to getting her own way, which means that when she plays games at home she always wins. But at school, the rules are different.
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I Was a Rat
Author: Philip Pullman Illustrator: Peter Bailey
Publisher: Random House
Interest age: 8-11
Reading age: 8+A small boy arrives on the doorstep of a childless couple, politely but insistently asserting that he used to be a rat.
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I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato
Author: Lauren Child
Publisher: Hachette
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 5+Charlie tricks his younger sister, Lola - an extremely fussy eater - into eating all her least favourite foods.
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I Will Not Wear Pink
Author: Joyce Dunbar Illustrator: Polly Dunbar
Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 6+When Priscilla the pig invites Plunkett to a party, he refuses to wear the pink costume she has sent him. This uplifting tale about being yourself combines exuberant illustrations and jolly rhythmic text, which is great fun to read aloud.
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I Wish
Author: Nick Ward
Publisher: Pavilion Books
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 3+- This beautiful book touches on the power of the imagination and of dreams.
- The rhyming words in the story make it really memorable.
- The night time pictures are simply lovely.
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I Wish I Were a Dog
Author: Lydia Monks Illustrator: Lydia Monks
Publisher: Egmont
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 4+This sturdy board book edition of Lydia Monks’ Smarties Bronze Award winning tale is filled with vibrant, quirky illustrations and Monks’ trademark collage style.
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I Wish I Were a Pirate
Author: Smriti Prasadam-Halls Illustrator: Sarah Ward
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+A wonderfully chunky, rhyming board book about pirates, with exciting things to spot on every page, thanks to the colourful and jolly illustrations. An ideal book for even the youngest toddler to enjoy.
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I Yam a Donkey!
Author: Cece Bell
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+A donkey and a yam are arguing about grammar. The exuberant donkey keeps getting things wrong. And the pernickety yam gets more and more irritated.
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I, Ada
Author: Julia Gray
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+Ada Lovelace is widely regarded as the world's first computer programmer, but did you know she also had a part to play in the history of computer technology? This fictionalised memoir of an important historical figure is smart, funny, and totally relatable.
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I, Coriander
Author: Sally Gardner
Publisher: Hachette
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+Coriander Hobie's happy childhood in 17th-century London is brought to an abrupt end when her mother is murdered by an evil fairy queen from the land of her youth.
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I, Cosmo
Author: Carlie Sorosiak
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+Cosmo is a dog with a passion for dance. When his family no longer have enough love to stay together, can he save them? This charming story brings together the fun of canine freestyle dance and the heartbreak of divorce into a single, moving story about families.
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I’ll Never Let You Go
Author: Smriti Prasadam-Halls Illustrator: Alison Brown
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 0+
Reading age: 6+This is a reassuring picture book for the very youngest - ideal for bedtime, with its simple, undemanding and child-friendly backgrounds.
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I’m Going to Eat This Ant
Author: Chris Naylor-Ballesteros
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 4-6
Reading age: 5+Anteater is hungry, but he’s pretty tired of licking up nasty biting ants with his twirly tongue. You’ll be rooting for the hungry Anteater from the start: a fabulous, funny book that also celebrates food.
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I’m not cute!
Author: Jonathan Allen
Publisher: Boxer Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+Baby Owl is fed up. In fact, he’s furious. He sets off for a walk in the woods but kangaroo, fox and squirrel won’t leave him alone. They insist on picking him up, hugging him and telling him how cute he is. It’s too much! For Baby Owl doesn’t think he’s cute at all: he’s a sleek hunting machine with silent wings and huge …
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I’m not Reading!
Author: Jonathan Allen
Publisher: Boxer Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 4+Baby Owl really wants to read out loud but a fluffy cloud of chicks put him on the spot, how can he read now?
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I’m the Biggest
Author: Stephanie Blake Illustrator: Linda Burgess
Publisher: Gecko Press
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 5+This light-hearted picture book is a welcome addition to the Simon and Casper series, and touches on some common issues experienced by many toddlers, such as jealousy, unfairness and sibling rivalry.
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Ian's Walk: A Story about Autism
Author: Laurie Lears Illustrator: Karen Ritz
Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 6+This is a useful book for discussing autism, sibling relationships and responsibility.
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Icarus Was Ridiculous
Author: Pamela Butchart
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+Izzy and her friends are on a class trip to the British Museum. When one classmate fails to pay attention to the teacher, holding everyone up, Izzy’s inspired to tell the story of Icarus who, after failing to listen to his dad’s instructions, flies too close to the sun with his wax wings, with catastrophic results.
This is Ancient Greece as you’ve never seen…
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Ice Bear
Author: Nicola Davies Illustrator: Gary Blythe
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 6+Facts about polar bears are woven alongside the lyrical text in this sumptuously illustrated picture book.
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Iced Out
Author: C K Smouha Illustrator: Isabella Bunnell
Publisher: Cicada Books
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6+Wilfred the Narwhal and Neville the Walrus are the odd ones out at Miss Blubber's School for Arctic Mammals... but will things change when Betty the Beluga joins the class? A stunning, empowering must-read for all children.
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If All the World Were
Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Allison Colpoys
Publisher: Lincoln Children’s Books
Interest age: 0-5
This beautiful story tells the love that one little girl has for her ageing grandad. One day he isn’t there anymore, but the little girl finds evidence of their happy times together. A touching, sensitive text that doesn’t dwell on the sadness and could bring real comfort.
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If I Had a Dinosaur
Author: Gabby Dawnay Illustrator: Alex Barow
Publisher: Thames & Hudson
Interest age: 3-4
A little girl wishes ever so desperately that she could have a pet, but she's unsure about what kind of pet she would like.
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If I Had A Unicorn
Author: Gabby Dawnay Illustrator: Alex Barrow
Publisher: Thames & Hudson
Interest age: 2-5
A beautifully illustrated daydream about an ideal pet with superpowers and rainbow poo!
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If I Stay
Author: Gayle Forman
Publisher: Definitions
Interest age: 14+
Reading age: 12+A beautifully written book with moments of real sadness, hope, laughter, tragedy and joy.
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If I was a Banana
Author: Alexandra Tylee Illustrator: Kieran Rynhart
Publisher: Gecko Press
Interest age: 5+
Reading age: 5+'If I was…' begins this gentle picture-book poem, in which a boy takes off on a flight of fancy. This lovely exercise in imagination would be a brilliant classroom project for young writers, and an ideal bedtime read at home.
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If You Come to Earth
Author: Sophie Blackall
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Interest age: 4-8
Quinn writes a letter to a potential visitor from outer space, explaining the different things they might experience when they visit Earth - from houses and cars and people, to feelings and behaviours, both good and bad. An inspirational book to celebrate diversity.
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If You Find Me
Author: Emily Murdoch
Publisher: Indigo
Interest age: 14+
Reading age: 13+Mama's been gone over a month now and Carey is all alone with her baby sister in the camper van in the backwoods of Tenessee.
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If You Find This
Author: Matthew Baker
Publisher: Hot Key
Interest age: 11-15
Reading age: 10Funny, touching and a little bit scary, Nicholas' story is a celebration of individual difference as a disparate group of marginalised characters come together to overcome convention and find fulfilment.
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If You Were Me
Author: Sam Hepburn
Publisher: Chicken House
Interest age: 12-16
Reading age: 10+Complex plotting, thoughtful characterisation and terrifying insights into a world of organised crime will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
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If You're Happy and You Know It
Author: Annie Kubler
Publisher: Child's Play
Interest age: 0+
Reading age: 3+On every page of this board book are attractive, colourful illustrations of babies clapping their hands, rolling about on the floor and hugging their friends.
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If You're Happy and You Know It!
Author: Anna McQuinn Illustrator: Sophie Fatus
Publisher: Barefoot Books
This lively and colourful retelling of a favourite action rhyme is accompanied by a fun watch and singalong CD.
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Iggy and Me on Holiday
Author: Jenny Valentine Illustrator: Joe Berger
Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
Interest age: 5+
Reading age: 8+Flo's little sister, Iggy, is devastated when her first summer term comes to an end. What will she do all day for six whole weeks and can anything be as exciting as school?
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Igor: The Bird Who Couldn't Sing
Author: Satoshi Kitamura
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+This is a life-affirming and hugely enjoyable story about the joy of being different and the joy of self-expression.
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Iguana Boy Saves the World with a Triple Cheese Pizza
Author: James Bishop Illustrator: Rikin Parekh
Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
Interest age: 7-9
Reading age: 7+Dylan Spencer has a rubbish superpower: he can talk to iguanas. But when all the rest of the world’s superheroes are kidnapped, he is the only one left to save the planet. A hilarious and heartwarming book, packed full of brilliant, comic-strip illustrations.
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Iguana Boy vs the 30 Second Thief
Author: James Bishop Illustrator: Rikin Parekh
Publisher: Hodder
Interest age: 7-11
Reading age: 7+Iguana Boy has started at Superhero HQ, and his first mission is to escape the Cats in Trees department. Just like the first Iguana Boy book, this is zany, funny and warm – like the X-Men if Spike Milligan had invented their superpowers.
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I'll Be There
Author: Holly Goldberg Sloan
Publisher: Piccadilly Press
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 11+This quirky romance will stay with readers long after they have turned the last page.
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I'll Give You the Sun
Author: Jandy Nelson
Publisher: Walker
Interest age: 14+
Reading age: 14+I'll Give You the Sun is a beautiful book about family, about choices, about art, and about growing up.
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I'll Love You Always
Author: Mark Sperring Illustrator: Alison Brown
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 2-5
This is a perfect bedtime book about the everlasting bond of love between a little mouse and her mummy or daddy.
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Illegal
Author: Eoin Colfer and Andrew Donkin and Illustrator: Giovanni Rigano
Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+Illegal tells the story of Ebo, a 12-year-old boy who flees grinding poverty, zero opportunities and a drunken uncle in his small village in Africa. An absolute must-read, this graphic novel is thought-provoking, profound, sensitive and totally gripping.
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Illuminature
Author: Rachel Williams Illustarted by Carnovsky
Publisher: Wide Eyed
Interest age: 8+
Reading age: 8+Ten of the world's most fascinating and unusual natural habitats are explored here, from The Simpson Desert in Australia to the Weddell and Ross Seas in Antartica.
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Illustrated Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Author: J.K. Rowling Illustrator: Jim Kay
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 8+
Reading age: 8+The second in the fully illustrated Harry Potter series, the artwork in Chamber of Secrets is perhaps even more impressive and detailed than in the first book. A treat for Harry Potter fans and a new generation of readers.
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I'm a Girl!
Author: Yasmeen Ismail
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+Like all good children's writers, Ismail has managed to bind the message in a picture book that is a delight in every aspect.
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I'm a Little Alien
Author: James Carter Illustrator: Mique Moriuchi
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+Through rhyme smaller children can be introduced to new words and concepts while older children can try reading the poems aloud themselves. An absolute delight.
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I'm a Little Teapot!
Author: Annie Kubler
Publisher: Childs Play
Interest age: 0+
Reading age: 5+A lively board book in which children introduce the popular rhyme and the accompanying actions. One of the children pictured has a hearing aid.
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I'm Actually Really Grown-Up Now
Author: Maisie Paradise Shearring
Publisher: Two Hoots
Interest age: 4-7
Meena's parents are having an exciting party, but she gets sent to bed - it's not fair! Meena plans a sophisticated grown-up party of her own, but her friends aren't very impressed. Shearring's book is a great way to remind kids that sometimes adults need to have fun with their friends too, and parents of children who want to stay up and join in will recogni…
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I'm Big Now
Author: Anthea Simmons Illustrator: Georgie Birkett
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 4+When her little brother is born, a little girl realises she is no longer the baby!
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I'm Cat
Author: Jan Pieńkowski
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 1-2
Reading age: N/AThe autumnal colours in this clever yet simple board book (shaped like a cat’s head, with ears) are full of warmth, making this a perfect book to share with babies.
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I'm in Charge!
Author: Jeanne Willis Illustrator: Peter Jarvis
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 5+A cautionary tale for the more spirited of children, this book shows how being in charge all the time is not just a bit mean, but can come back to bite you. The wonderfully funny rhyming will keep children reading along with interest and anticipation.
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I'm Not A Mouse!
Author: Evgenia Golubeva
Publisher: Child's Play
Interest age: 4-5
Olivia hates her mum's pet name for her - 'Mouse' - because every time Mum calls her mouse, Olivia turns into one! Olivia decides to stop responding to 'Mouse', but then starts to realise that she's not the only one with a nickname problem...
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I'm Sticking With You
Author: Smriti Halls Illustrator: Steve Small
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 4-5
Bear and Squirrel are best friends - but Squirrel feels like she needs a bit of space of her own. This adorable rhyming book about the ups and downs of friendship is pitched perfectly for 3-5 year olds who may be negotiating new friendships.
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I'm Sure I Saw a Dinosaur
Author: Jeanne Willis Illustrator: Adrian Reynolds
Publisher: Andersen
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 5+Willis and Reynolds have produced a highly engaging story, with a humorous twist at the end. It's an ideal book for bedtime, with an easily memorable text for young readers to learn and join in with.
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I'm the Best
Author: Lucy Cousins
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+Dog’s friends become dejected by his boastfulness, before realising that they all have things they do well too.
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I'm the Happiest
Author: Anna Shuttlewood
Publisher: QED Publishing
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 5+This colourful book has a simple and important message for children. Everyone is different yet equally important.
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Imaginary Fred
Author: Eoin Colfer Illustrator: Oliver Jeffers
Publisher: HarperCollins
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 6+Fred is an imaginary friend who floats like a feather in the clouds, waiting for a lonely child to wish him into existence. This uplifting and funny picture book about overcoming loneliness celebrates the power of hope and friendship.
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Imelda & the Goblin King
Author: Briony May Smith
Publisher: Flying Eye Books
Interest age: 4-8
Reading age: 7+Imelda and the kind fairies triumph over the greedy, grumpy goblin king in this picture book rooted in classic fairy tales - and accompanied by some dazzling illustrations.
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Immi
Author: Karin Littlewood
Publisher: Gullane
Interest age: 2-7
Reading age: 7+A little Inuit girl has a fairly harsh and lonely life until the day she catches a brightly coloured, wooden bird at the end of her fishing rod.
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Impossible Inventions
Author: Matgorzata Mycielska Aleksandra Mizielinska & Daniel Mizielinski
Publisher: Gecko Press
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+In Impossible Inventions, the team behind the bestselling Maps detail a wealth of incredible inventions, from 1st-century automatic-opening temple doors, a sweet sorter and an 18th-century magnetic balloon to a 3D-printed space base on the moon.
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In a Minute
Author: Tony Bradman Illustrator: Eileen Browne
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 5+Jo and Sita's visit to the park with Jo's parents is threatened by so many delays they fear they'll never get there.
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In Darkling Wood
Author: Emma Carroll
Publisher: Faber & Faber
Interest age: 11-15
Reading age: 10+An unusual and engaging dual-narrative tale about love, loss, faith and complex family relationships.
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In Focus
Author: Libby Walden Illustrator: Barbara Bakos Chester Bentley L’Atelier Cartographik Chris Chatterton Jessie Ford Thomas Pullin Clair Rossiter Lindsey Spinks Jen Taylor & Tracey Tucker
Publisher: 360 degrees
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+A beautiful book to browse that contains a wealth of interesting nuggets of information, handsomely presented by ten different illustrators.
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In the Attic
Author: Hiawyn Oram Illustrator: Satoshi Kitamura
Publisher: Anderson Press
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+A simple yet powerful message about the joy of the imagination and how it can take us anywhere we wish to go
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In The Beginning: Best Loved Bible Stories
Author: Jan Pienkowski
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 7+In this collection of Old Testament stories, Pienkowski uses the original text but illustrates the stories with his inimitable psychedelic punk art style, highlighting the drama and magic of these old tales.
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In the Key of Code
Author: Aimee Lucido
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+Emmy is in a new city and new school and has just discovered computer coding. But why are people in class keeping secrets? This verse novel brilliantly combines poetry, music and coding with a coming-of-age story and a celebration of girls in STEM.
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In The Mouth of the Wolf
Author: Michael Morpurgo Illustrator: Barroux
Publisher: Egmont
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 8+An elderly man remembers a life full of loss and bravery as a member of the Resistance in Nazi-occupied France. This is a deeply moving book that packs a lot of emotion, and a vivid cast of characters, into very few chapters.
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In The Sea There Are Crocodiles
Author: Fabio Geda Translator: Howard Curtis
Publisher: David Fickling Books
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 10+First published in Italian last year, the story of Enaiatollah Akbari's journey from Afghanistan to Italy has now been translated into English
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In the Swamp by the Light of the Moon
Author: Frann Preston-Gannon
Publisher: Templar Books
Interest age: 0-5
A little frog sits by the pond with his guitar one evening, singing by the light of the moon. As different voices gradually join in – a crocodile, some little mice and colourful fish – the song of the swamp takes shape. But somebody’s voice is missing – can they find the final piece? Everybody’s voice counts in this gentle, lulling rhyme that is perfect…
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In Their Shoes
Author: Julia Nicholson and Anne-Laure Mercier Illustrator: Lucie Arnoux
Publisher: Pushkin Children's Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 10+Nine well-known fairy stories return to their origins in this beautifully illustrated compilation.
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In Your Light
Author: Annalie Grainger
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 13-17
Reading age: 10+In the midst of a violent storm, Lil comes across a young girl: dirty, bleeding and terrified. Could she hold the key to the disappearance of Lil’s sister, four months earlier? An unsettling story of secrets, sisterhood and obsession.
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Incarceron
Author: Catherine Fisher
Publisher: Hachette
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+A rich complex fantasy about two very different worlds
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Incey Wincey Spider
Author: Annie Kubler
Publisher: Child's Play
Interest age: 1+
Reading age: 3+Part of the Sign and Singalong series of bright, colourful books featuring children showing signs and actions to accompany simple rhymes.
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India Dark
Author: Kirsty Murray
Publisher: Templar
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 10+In late 1909, 13-year-old Poesy Swift is presented with an irresistible opportunity to escape her oppressive life in Melbourne...
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Infernal Devices
Author: Philip Reeve
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+Third in Philip Reeve’s series, Infernal Devices sees Anna Fang’s Green Storm forces still locked in destructive conflict with the Traction cities.
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Infinite Sky
Author: C J Flood
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Books
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+Iris's mum has gone, leaving her to look after her older brother and dad. When a family of Irish Travellers park up on the farm, the summer becomes even more eventful.
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Ingo
Author: Helen Dunmore
Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+In Cornish legend, the Zenor mermaid fell in love with Mathew Trewhella and enticed him away to live in the sea with her forever...
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Inheritance
Author: Balli Kaur Jaswal
Publisher: Epigram Books
Interest age: 14+
Reading age: 10+As a newly-independent Singapore struggles to establish its own identity and economic stability, a single father in the Punjabi Sikh community tries his hardest to keep his family intact. An astonishing novel.
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Ink
Author: Alice Broadway
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+The people around her may wear their lives tattooed on their skin, but Leora discovers that not everything is as it seems when her beloved dad passes away in this gripping opening to a brand-new YA trilogy.
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Ink and Bone
Author: Rachel Caine
Publisher: Allison and Busby
Interest age: 14+
Reading age: 11+Fans of The Hunger Games and Harry Potter are sure to enjoy Ink and Bone and will also look forward with eagerness to next book in The Great Library Series so they can find out what fate holds in store for Jess and his new friends.
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Inkheart
Author: Cornelia Funke
Publisher: The Chicken House
Interest age: 8+
Reading age: 9+12-year-old Meggie and her father, Mo, a bookbinder, both love reading, but since the disappearance of Meggie's mother, they no longer read together. One night a stranger knocks at their door, prompting Mo to reveal his awful secret.
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Inkling
Author: Kenneth Oppel
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+Ethan’s father is a famous graphic novelist, and everyone always assumes Ethan must be an amazing artist too – except he isn’t. So when Ethan discovers Inkling – an incredible, living ink blob who ‘eats’ the ink from books, posters and magazines, then creates brilliant pictures – Ethan figures all his struggles with drawing are over.
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Insect Detective
Author: Steve Voake Illustrator: Charlotte Voake
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 6+A range of insects are introduced – wasps, solitary bees, ants, dragonflies – and their behaviour described.
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Insect Emporium
Author: Susie Brooks Illustrator: Dawn Cooper
Publisher: Red Shed
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 6+This stunning non-fiction picture book is a fabulous exploration of the insect world for young children. As well as looking at familiar creatures, such as bees, ladybirds and ants, it also features other more unusual specimens, including fireflies, stick insects and some spectacular mantises.
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Insignia
Author: S J Kinkaid
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 11+What if playing computer games could help you save the world?
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Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus
Author: Dusti Bowling
Publisher: Sterling Children’s Books
Interest age: 10-12
Reading age: 10-12Aven’s dad has just been offered a new job, managing a rundown theme park. And it turns out the theme park conceals some surprising secrets… With likeable characters and quirky humour, readers are likely to find this an inspiring and charming read.
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Inspector Brunswick: The Case of the Missing Eyebrow
Author: Angela Keoghan and Chris Lam Sam Illustrator: Angela Keoghan
Publisher: Tate Publishing
Interest age: 4-7
Reading age: 6+Inspector Brunswick is the world's greatest cat detective. After a busy week of crime solving, he looks forward to a pleasant visit to the art museum with his trusty canine assistant, Nelson.
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Interstellar Cinderella
Author: Deborah Underwood Illustrator: Meg Hunt
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Interest age: 5-8
Reading age: 6+Told in amusing rhyming verse with bold illustrations, this is a fresh, enjoyable revamp of a traditional tale.
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Interview With a Tiger
Author: Andy Seed Illustrator: Nick East
Publisher: Welbeck
Interest age: 6-11
Reading age: 7+Packed with quirky, surprising and sometimes disturbing facts, presented in an accessible and entertaining question and answer format, this book is a must for any animal lover or budding conservationist.
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Into That Forest
Author: Louis Nowra
Publisher: Egmont
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 10+Two girls find themselves lost in the Tasmanian bush in this powerful and memorable novel.
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Into the Blue
Author: Nicola Davies Illustrator: Abbie Cameron
Publisher: Graffeg
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 5-7Nicola Davies takes young readers on an imaginary trip to the seaside, with Abbie Cameron's beautiful illustrations depicting the marvellous life on the beach and in the sea.
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Into the Forest
Author: Anthony Browne
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 8+
Reading age: 8+One night a young boy is awoken by a terrible noise. The next day he finds his father has disappeared and his mother doesn't know when he's coming back.
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Into the Jungle: Stories for Mowgli
Author: Katherine Rundell Illustrator: Kristjana S Williams
Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
Interest age: 7-10
Reading age: 7+Inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, this splendid collection of five short stories focuses on a variety of characters from the original tale. Full of stylish illustrations and a hardback cover, it would make a stunning gift book.
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Introducing Teddy
Author: Jessica Walton Illustrator: Dougal MacPherson
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Interest age: 3-7
Reading age: 4+Errol starts to notice that his teddy bear Thomas seems sad - he has always known he is a girl teddy, but is worried that Errol will not want to play with him anymore. A rare but much-needed picture book about gender fluidity.
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Inventors
Author: Robert Winston Illustrator: Jessamy Hawke
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+This engaging non-fiction book celebrates more than 50 incredible inventors from across the globe and throughout history.
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InvestiGators
Author: John Patrick Green
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 6-11
Reading age: 7+Mango and Brash, two alligator detectives, have an assignment to go undercover at Batter Down bakery when chef Gustavo Mustachio goes missing - and when a customer orders a person-sized birthday cake, the mystery deepens!
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Invictus
Author: Ryan Graudin
Publisher: Orion
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 11+Born out of time, Far McCarthy has always planned to be a time traveller, but his hopes are dashed when a computer appears to malfunction. However, it turns out to have been no malfunction, but a plot – one which will involve him, and everyone he loves.
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Invisible Emmie
Author: Terri Libenson
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+Thirteen-year-old Emmie is the quiet girl at school, the one nobody notices. She loves to draw – and is good at it too – and has a best friend, Brianna, but her crippling shyness makes school and interacting with, well, anyone, really scary.
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Invisible Fiends: Mr Mumbles
Author: Barry Hutchison
Publisher: HarperCollins
Kyle's imaginary friend from childhood is back! With a vengeance.
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Invisible in a Bright Light
Author: Sally Gardner
Publisher: Zephyr Books (imprint of Zeus)
Interest age: 11-14
Reading age: 10+A mysterious and riveting fantasy thriller, with elements of horror, that will especially appeal to readers who enjoy puzzles and problem-solving. It will keep you pinned to your seat for hours.
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Invisible Inc.
Author: Steve Cole Illustrator: Jim Field
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Interest age: 10-13
Reading age: 10+This madcap science-fiction thriller is packed with humorous illustrations and features whacky inventions, gigantic homicidal chickens, corny jokes and some very old ghosts.
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Invisible Nature: A Secret World Beyond Our Senses
Author: Catherine Barr Illustrator: Anne Wilson
Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 7+This fascinating non-fiction picture book about the invisible wonders of our world is engaging, informative and attractively presented. An accessible, educational and fun picture book for junior readers.
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Invisible Vinnie
Author: Jenny Nimmo Illustrator: Sue Heap
Publisher: Random House
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6+Rose is miserable and one morning she confides in her Uncle Vinnie. Although she is worried about reading in class, her real problem is Zack, a school bully, who teases her.
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Iremonger: Heap House
Author: Edward Carey
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 11+At the heart of Heap House, amongst the piles of rubbish that cover the London borough of Filching, Clod Iremonger can hear his bath-plug speaking to him.
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Iris and Isaac
Author: Catherine Rayner
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 4+This gorgeous story from an award-winning picture book- maker is a classic tale of friendship between two quarrelling polar bears. Rayner's illustrations are a delight and her animals are full of character.
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Is it a Mermaid?
Author: Candy Gourlay Illustrator: Francesca Chessa
Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
Interest age: 4-7
Reading age: 5+Bel and Benji meet a friendly dugong, also known as a sea cow, on a tropical beach. This delightful book about friendship, imagination and self-belief includes factual information about these gentle marine mammals, who are sadly at threat of extinction.
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Is it Bedtime Wibbly Pig?
Author: Mick Inkpen
Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 6+Children will love the humorous and endearing pictures while parents will recognise only too well the familiar excuses to delay bedtime. A comforting and cosy book for sharing at bedtime.
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Is it Christmas Yet?
Author: Jane Chapman
Publisher: Little Tiger
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 7+Christmas is coming, and Ted is so excited, he's ready to pop! A gentle story about preparing for Christmas with bright, lively illustrations.
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Is It Really Nearly Christmas?
Author: Joyce Dunbar Illustrator: Victoria Turnbull
Publisher: Hodder
Interest age: 4-8
Reading age: 5+There’s only one more sleep until Christmas, but Lucas cannot wait! A soothing classic story about the magic of Christmas and the anticipation felt in the run up. A perfect read for settling down excited children on Christmas Eve.
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Is My Teacher a Robot?
Author: Dave Cousins Illustrator: Catalina Echeverri
Publisher: Stripes
Interest age: 6-11
Reading age: 6+When Robin the robot wakes up one day convinced he's a teacher, he ends up as a supply cover for Jess and Jake's class - but when he disappears on the night of the science fair, the children fear the worst. A zany twist on school life with lots of laughs, adventure, and a suitably challenging vocabulary for younger readers.
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Is There a Dog In This Book?
Author: Viviane Schwarz
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+Join the cats on this fun, interactive story as they hide from and search for the (spoiler alert) dog that is in this book. Told entirely through speech bubbles and with lots of flaps to lift, this is a book you'll want to come back to again and again.
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Is There Anybody Out There?
Author: Dara Ó Briain
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 8-11
Reading age: 9-11An entertaining and funny book exploring what we currently know about space - and how likely it is that we'll find alien life.
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Is This My Nose?
Author: Georgie Birkett
Publisher: Random House
This book is full of lots of faces and lots of fun!
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Isaac and His Amazing Asperger Superpowers!
Author: Melanie Walsh
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 4+Isaac introduces himself, explaining from the outset that he has 'superpowers', making him slightly different. He then guides us through some of the many challenges faced by children with Asperger's Syndrome.
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Isadora Moon Goes to School
Author: Harriet Muncaster
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Interest age: 5-8
Reading age: 7+Isadora Moon is half fairy, half vampire. When she reaches school age, she visits both a fairy and vampire school to see which she prefers - but everything goes wrong. A humorous chapter book about being different and celebrating diversity.
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Isadora Moon Puts on a Show
Author: Harriet Muncaster
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6+Isadora Moon is unique: she has a vampire father and a fairy mother. So what kind of show will she put on at the annual vampire ball? This charming, funny chapter book celebrates individuality and explores issues like overcoming fears and wanting to fit in.
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Isla and the Happily Ever After
Author: Stephanie Perkins
Publisher: Usborne Publishing
Interest age: 14+
Reading age: 13+This delightful romance from bestselling US author Stephanie Perkins is set against the background of Paris, New York and Barcelona.
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i-SSASSINS
Author: Christopher Edge
Publisher: Pearson
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+Luke Kitson is training with the ELITE, a crack team of teenage hackers recruited by MI5 and currently investigating YourLife, a new social networking site with vast ambitions. But disappearances begin – first members of the site, next MI5 agents and finally one of the ELITE hackers.
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It MUST Have Been You!
Author: Zanib Mian Illustrator: Fatima Mian
Publisher: Sweet Apple Publishers
Interest age: 5-6
Reading age: 5+A little girl gets into trouble again and again but gets love when she apologises. This is a lovely book celebrating the power of saying sorry, as well as one that recognises that children sometimes feel like they haven’t done anything wrong at all!
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It Starts with a Seed
Author: Laura Knowles Illustrator: Jennie Webber
Publisher: Words & Pictures Press
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 5+A seed becomes a sapling, then a young tree, until, after many years, it grows into a large tree with roots and branches filling the page.
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It Was So Quiet I Could Hear A Pin Drop
Author: Andy Goodman
Publisher: Princeton Architectural Press
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 3-6As she sits on her tree swing, a girl hears a myriad of sounds, including a bee buzzing, someone singing, even a volcano exploding. This beautifully designed picture book with stylish illustrations takes the reader on a thought-provoking sound journey.
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It’s a Book
Author: Lane Smith
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 7+Jackass, playing on his computer, wants to know what Monkey is up to. Monkey is reading a book
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It’s A Little Baby
Author: Julia Donaldson Illustrator: Rebecca Cobb
Publisher: MacMillan
Interest age: 0-3
This is a really simple and fun book to read, encouraging interaction between the book and the child, and the reader and little one. And there’s a bonus: the words are also a song, which can be downloaded or found on the It’s A Little Baby website.
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It’s a No-Money Day
Author: Kate Milner
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 4-8
Reading age: 5+This moving picture book about a family’s visit to the food bank is a sensitive exploration of how it may feel to live below the poverty line. Perfect to share with young children to develop empathy and understanding (or to recognise their own situation).
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It’s a Wrap
Author: Perdita and Honor Cargill
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+Elektra James is back in the third installment of the Waiting for Callback series for more romance, school issues and insights from the acting world. This fun and funny series will give a bit of light relief to younger teens.
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It’s My Pond
Author: Claire Garralon Translator: from French by Sarah Ardizzone
Publisher: Book Island
Interest age: 1-3
This book is a beautiful and enjoyable read. It teaches children the importance of sharing rather than selfish hoarding, and the vibrant illustrations invite young readers to identify the different colours, as well as count the ducks.
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It’s Not Fine to Sit on a Porcupine
Author: Neal Zetter Illustrator: Rory Walker
Publisher: Troika Books
Interest age: 6-11
Reading age: 10+An amusingly illustrated collection of humorous poems from an award-winning performance poet, which covers a wide range of funny and interesting subjects.
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It’s One Giant Leek for Mankind
Author: Olaf Falafel
Publisher: Unexporcupine Publishing
Interest age: 4-8
Reading age: 6+Olaf Falafel’s rhyming books are hugely popular with kids of a certain age, and the fart jokes just keep coming. Lots of laughs set in space – what more could you ask for?
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Itch - Element Hunter
Author: Simon Mayo
Publisher: Doubleday Children's Books
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 11+Itchingham Lofte is different from other year 10 boys. Instead of football or computer games, his passion is chemistry, involving explosions, missing eyebrows, school poisonings and terrible smells.
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Itch Scritch Scratch
Author: Eleanor Updale Illustrator: Sarah Horne
Publisher: Red Squirrel Books
Interest age: 4+
Head lice are the focus of this fun and engaging picture book. The dyslexia-friendly features make this book highly accessible.
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It's About Love
Author: Steven Camden
Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 10+This gripping and thought provoking story slowly unfolds to reveal credible characters and events.
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It's Not Fairy!
Author: Ros Asquith
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+Children beware: if you say 'it's not fair' one too many times, the It's Not Fairy might just come and gobble you up.
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It's OK to Cry
Author: Molly Potter Illustrator: Sarah Jennings
Publisher: Featherstone
Interest age: 4-8
Reading age: 6+A lovely book helping children to navigate their feelings and emotions - both positive and negative - as well as gently discussing mental health issues.
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It's OK, I'm Wearing Really Big Knickers!
Author: Louise Rennison
Publisher: HarperCollins
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 11+Georgia Nicholson's account of her life with her friends, her family, her eccentric cat Angus and her on-off relationship with 'sex god' Robbie is colourful and convincing.
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It's Only Stanley
Author: Jon Agee
Publisher: Scallywag Press
Interest age: 3-6
The Wimbledon family keep getting woken up by their dog, Stanley - what could he possibly be up to in the middle of the night? Find out in this brilliantly inventive and funny picture book.
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It's Raining! It's Pouring! We're Exploring!
Author: Polly Peters Illustrator: Jess Stockham
Publisher: Child's Play
Interest age: 0+
Reading age: 5+Three children are stuck inside while it's raining. Luckily they have plenty of imaginative ideas to turn a potentially dull and dreary day into a series of exhilarating adventures.
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It's Snow Day
Author: Richard Curtis Illustrator: Rebecca Cobb
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 4-9
Reading age: 7+This must-read winter picture book is crammed with fabulously joyful and expressive illustrations and will be loved by young and old alike.
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It's Time For Bed
Author: Adele Geras
Publisher: Piccadilly Press
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 6+Mother Hare says it’s time for bed, but baby Hare doesn’t feel sleepy.
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Ivan the Terrible
Author: Anne Fine Illustrator: Philippe Dupasquier
Publisher: Egmont
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 6+When Russian Ivan arrives at Boris's school, Boris is assigned as his translator. But while Boris is a mild-mannered, peace-loving child, Ivan is quite the opposite.
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I've Broken My Bum!
Author: Dawn McMillan Illustrator: Ross Kinnaird
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 4-5
Our hero returns for more bum-related hijinks in this rhyming story about the perils of gluing things to your own bottom.
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Ivy and the Lonely Raincloud
Author: Katie Harnett
Publisher: Flying Eye Books
Interest age: 4-7
Reading age: 6+When the scorching hot sun scares the rainclouds away, it leaves one lonely little cloud behind. A thoroughly heartwarming book, with picture-perfect illustrations, about loneliness and finding friendship in the most unexpected places.
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Izzy Gizmo
Author: Pip Jones Illustrator: Sara Ogilvie
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 5-7
Reading age: 5-7Izzy Gizmo is a girl that loves inventing things: the Swirly Spagsonic, the Tea-Mendous and the Beardtastic, for instance. But unfortunately, something always goes wrong...
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Izzy Gizmo and the Invention Convention
Author: Pip Jones Illustrator: Sara Ogilvie
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 4-6
Reading age: 5+Izzy Gizmo and her companion Fixer have been invited to compete for the Genius Guild Badge... but the other competitors have used up all the power! Another delightful story for little engineers.