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Books beginning with: L

• L is For Love

  Author: Atinuke Illustrator: Angela Brooksbank
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  L is for Love and L is for Lemons... A warm and joyful picture book which follows one family as they journey to the bustling Nigerian city of Lagos to sell lemons at the market.

• La La La

  Author: Kate DiCamillo Illustrator: Jaime Kim
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  This almost wordless picture book communicates its touching message through striking artwork. A poignant tale of how, with hope and perseverance, loneliness can be transformed into joy and companionship.

• Labradoodle on the Loose

  Author: TM Alexander
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press Ltd
  Interest age: 8-11
  Reading age: 9+

  The Tribers - Bee, Jonno, Copper Pie, Fifty and Keener - are loyal, lively and principled but have an uncanny knack for getting into complicated situations.

• Labyrinth: Find Your Way Through 14 Magical Mazes

  Author: Theo Guignard
  Publisher: Wide Eyed Editions
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 6+

  Generous spreads draw the reader into bold, striking, brightly coloured graphic worlds, each one spatially and visually completely different, filled with clever or witty details. They each provide much to delight maze detectives everywhere.

• Ladder to the Moon

  Author: Maya Soetoro-Ng Illustrator: Yuri Morales
  Publisher: Walker
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  In this picture book by US President Barack Obama's half sister, Maya Soetoro-Ng explores the themes of humanity, love, acceptance and reconcilliation through the story of a little girl whose grandmother takes her on a remarkable journey.

• Lady Lollipop

  Author: Dick King-Smith Illustrator: Jill Barton
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  A spoilt princess demands to have Lollipop the pig as her eighth birthday present. Lollipop and his trainer, Johnny Skinner, then have to teach the princess how to behave.

• Lady Midnight

  Author: Cassandra Clare
  Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  Interest age: 16-18
  Reading age: 14+

  Shadowhunters Julian and Emma are parabatai. They are allowed to do absolutely everything together except fall in love.

• Lalani of the Distant Sea

  Author: Erin Entrada Kelly
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Lalani lives on an island ruled by a cruel menyoro, where people live in fear of the spirit of the nearby Mount Kahna. But when her mother gets ill, Lalani realises she must trust in the great magic of the island and embark on a quest to find a cure. A beautiful novel woven with mythology and magic, and a warning about what can happen when we don't understan…

• Lament

  Author: Maggie Stiefvater
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  Deirdre, a teenage, twenty-first century musician, discovers her supernatural Celtic background and finds she can see faeryfolk - but there are dangers ahead...

• Larklight

  Author: Philip Reeve Illustrator: David Wyatt
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Childrens Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Award-winning Reeve indulges his love of historical technology in a new novel for younger readers, which is as captivating as the Mortal Engines quartet was for an older audience.

• Larry’s Latkes

  Author: Jenna Waldman Illustrator: Ben Whitehouse
  Publisher: Apples and Honey Press
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Can Larry invent a new recipe for latkes in time to feed his friends? A fun and informative picture book about a significant Hanukkah food tradition.

• Last Gate of the Emperor

  Author: Kwame Mbalia and Prince Joel Makonnen
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  This compelling tale is set in Addis Prime, a dystopian city which is strictly controlled by the Authority. Combining elements of Ethiopian culture with space-age technology, this fast-paced Afrofuturistic adventure is a thrilling read.

• Last Stop on Market Street

  Author: Matt de la Pena Illustrator: Christian Robinson
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  A New York Times Bestseller, this wonderful picture book about the riches that money can’t buy is a timely and timeless reminder for all of us, not just children, that caring, thoughtfulness and community are more important than material wealth.

• Last Stop on the Reindeer Express

  Author: Maudie Powell-Tuck Illustrator: Karl James Mountford
  Publisher: Little Tiger Press
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 6+

  Mia is transported into the Reindeer Express, a magical sorting office, as she tries to get her Christmas card to Daddy in time. A sweet and heartfelt story about Christmas for a child whose parents are separated.

• Last Train from Kummersdorf

  Author: Leslie Wilson
  Publisher: Faber and Faber
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 11

  It is 1945 and as World War II draws to an end in Germany, two 14-year-olds meet while trying to reach safety.

• Launch a Rocket Into Space: You do the Maths

  Author: Hilary Koll and Steve Mills Illustrator: Vladimir Aleksic
  Publisher: QED Publishing
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 8

  Maths is made appealing by relating it to its use in the modern world and by the use of comic book style illustrations. With answers and glossary.

• Laura Norder: Sheriff of Butts Canyon

  Author: Guy Bass Illustrator: Steve May
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  This easy-to-read story is full of brilliant cowboy slogans and Wild West atmosphere, but at heart it’s really a story about what happens when we impose too many rules on others, denying them the freedom to make decisions – and mistakes – for themselves.

• Lavinia and the Magic Ring

  Author: Bianca Pitzorno Illustrator: Quentin Blake
  Publisher: Catnip
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  A modern fairy tale for young readers inspired by the classic story of The Little Match Girl but without the tragic ending and featuring a magic ring and enormous quantities of stinky poo.

• Leah’s Star

  Author: Margaret Bateson-Hill Illustrator: Karin Littlewood
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 5+

  This delightful version of the ancient Nativity tale is told through the eyes of the young girl Leah, the inn-keeper's daughter in Bethlehem. Her story tells a touching and human tale of two first-time parents about to experience the birth of their child together.

• Leaves Are Like Traffic Lights

  Author: Andrew Fusek Peters
  Publisher: Salt Publishing
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 9+

  Featuring turbo-charged trees, double agent forests and leaves that perform magic, this is a wide-ranging collection of fun, lyrical and thought-provoking poems.

• Legend

  Author: Marie Lu
  Publisher: Puffin Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 11+

  With elements of romance, political intrigue and state-sanctioned violence, this first installment of a dystopian trilogy has something for everyone.   

• Legendarium

  Author: Jennifer Bell
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Best friends Arthur, Ren and Cecily are swept through time and space into another mind-boggling adventure in this sequel to Wonderscape. This time, they’re thrown almost 500 years into the future to the world of Legendarium, where myths become reality and they’re not sure who they can trust. 

• Leif the Unlucky Viking: Saga of the Shooting Star

  Author: Gary Northfield
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Leif, a hapless Viking wolf pup, embarks on a secret mission to locate a missing shard from Thor’s hammer. This hilarious Viking adventure has oodles of laughs on every page.

• Leila and the Blue Fox

  Author: Kiran Millwood Hargrave Illustrator: Tom de Freston
  Publisher: Hachette Children’s Group
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Can Miso the fox help Leila rediscover her mother? An incredibly moving story with breath-taking illustrations – perfect for upper primary readers.

• Leilong’s Too Long!

  Author: Julia Liu & Bei Lynn Translator: Helen Wang
  Publisher: Gecko Press
  

  Leilong is a brontosaurus, but he’s a dinosaur with a difference: this brontosaurus carries children to school. His long neck is a perfect slide for children living on the top floor of a block of flats, and there’s plenty of room on his back for everyone.

• Lenny and Wilbur

  Author: Ken Wilson-Max
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Lenny and Wilbur, are the best of friends. This illustration-led picture book about the special bond between one boy and his dog is bright, bold and culturally diverse. Join them for a fun-packed day of activities that will be familiar to many preschoolers.

• Lenny Has Lunch

  Author: Ken Wilson-Max
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 3-5
  Reading age: 5+

  It’s lunchtime at Lenny’s house. Whilst Mummy is at work, Lenny and Daddy – and dog Wilbur – have some quality bonding time in the kitchen together. 

• Lenny Lemmon and the Invincible Rat

  Author: Ben Davis Illustrator: James Lancett
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Let the mayhem commence, as Lenny brings a rat to ‘Olden Days’ day at school. Packed with energy and humour, with great illustrations and short chapters, this is a fun story that will appeal hugely to young readers.

  ---

  Mae hon yn stori ddoniol iawn. Mae Lenny a'i ffrindiau'n ceisio dal Ratty gyda chanlyniadau sy'n mynd yn fwy a mwy dinistriol, ac wrth gwrs yn …

• Leon and Bob

  Author: Simon James
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 5+

  Leon has moved to town with his mother and his friend Bob. Bob does everything with Leon, but he is not your average friend - he is imaginary.

• Leon and the Place Between

  Author: Angela McAllister Illustrator: Graham Baker-Smith
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  With his friends Leon visits an elaborate magic show, and finds himself quite literally drawn into the action.

• Leon The Extraordinary

  Author: Jamar Nicholas and Bonaia Rosado
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9-11

  Leon lives in a world where many people have super powers. No-one’s exactly sure where the first Supers came from, but generations of super people have lived in Leon’s town, and many of them have passed on their powers to their children. Some are good, and fight crime. Some are not so virtuous.

• Leonardo Da Vinci’s Life of Invention

  Author: Jake Williams
  Publisher: Pavilion
  Interest age: 8-10
  Reading age: 8+

  Jake Williams’ brilliant overview of the famous polymath’s work, including his legacy today, is presented with beautiful graphic illustration that really draws the reader in and is sure to inspire many young inventors, artists and musicians.

• Leonardo the Terrible Monster

  Author: Mo Willems
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 2-7
  Reading age: 7+

  Leonardo really is a terrible monster – so terrible that he can't scare anyone, ever. Then, one day, he hatches a plan...

• Leonora Bolt: Secret Inventor

  Author: Lucy Brandt Illustrator: Gladys Jose
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Inventor Leonora Bolt has never left the remote island she lives on with her pet otter and an eccentric housekeeper! When a young castaway washes ashore, she begins to learn all about the mainland - which is in terrible danger. Can Leonora and her friends save it?

• Leopard's Snore!

  Author: Child's Play
  Publisher: Child's Play International Ltd
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  A sturdy book with an appealing puppet that pokes her head through a hole in each page of the book, this is one of a series featuring different puppet characters, based loosely on the natural and spontaneous noises our bodies can make.

• Leopold Blue

  Author: Rosie Rowell
  Publisher: Hot Key Books
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  Growing up in Leopold, a tiny town in rural 1990s South Africa, fifteen-year-old Meg is frustrated by the tedium of her day-to-day life. 

• Let’s Celebrate! Festival poems from around the world

  Author: Various Editor: Debjani Chatterjee & Brian D’Arcy Illustrator: by Shirin Adl
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  

  Everyone loves a celebration and with this lively, multicultural, poetry anthology there is an excuse to celebrate almost all year round

• Let’s Chase Stars Together: Poems to Lose Yourself In

  Author: Matt Goodfellow Illustrator: Oriol Vidal
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Education
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 10+

  A fantastic collection of poems reflecting real life that will have readers coming back to it again and again.  

• Let’s Find Fred

  Author: Steven Lenton
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 4-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Children will love spotting fun-loving Fred as he explores the city, from the market and the maze to the art gallery and, finally, the Panda-Monium Ball. Every page is overflowing with exciting action and funny moments, providing lots of talking points.

• Let’s Find the Tiger

  Author: Alex Willmore
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  This beautifully produced little board book is sure to capture the attention of even the youngest babies. A tiger is hiding in the book, and there are soft felt flaps to investigate behind.

• Let’s Go For A Walk

  Author: Text developed with Terri Langan based on CBeebies’ Ranger Hamza series Illustrator: Katy Kronreif
  Publisher: Ivy Kids
  Interest age: 5-12
  Reading age: 6+

  Wherever you live, in a town, by the sea or in the countryside, this vividly illustrated picture book by CBeebies favourite Ranger Hamza will make any walk more interesting and exciting. 

• Let’s Go Home, Baby Chick

  Author: Illustrator: Carolina Búzio
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  Can you help baby chick get home? A fantastic interactive board book with gorgeous illustrations of spring scenes and animals. Perfect for toddler hands. 

• Let’s Go to Nursery!

  Author: Caryl Hart and Lauren Tobia
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Bee and Billy are going to nursery! What will the day hold? This sweet book about the potentially anxiety-making environment of nursery focuses on the friendship between little ones that play there together – and is full of wonderfully creative rhyming text.

• Let’s Play!

  Author: Hervé Tullet
  Publisher: Chronicle Books
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  A lively yellow dot, which is full of personality, invites the reader to play. In a world of touchscreen technology, this playful picture book goes back to basics, inspiring children to interact with the printed page by allowing their imagination to bring the dot to life.

• Let’s Stick Together

  Author: Smriti Halls Illustrator: Steve Small
  Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Squirrel and Bear are the best of friends, but sometimes they don’t see things in quite the same way. For instance, when Squirrel decides they should have a party, Bear is very into the idea until anxiety strikes and he starts to feel that perhaps it would be better for everyone if he just went to bed.

  ---

  Y stori odledig hon gan Halls a Small ydy'r ddiweddaraf…

• Let's Feed the Ducks

  Author: Pamela Venus
  Publisher: Firetree Books
  

  Feeding the ducks can be an adventure, as this story shows!

• Let's go to Playgroup

  Author: Pamela Venus
  Publisher: Firetree Books
  

  • This positive book is a great read when your child starts playgroup.

  • The illustrations are comforting and gentle.

  • This is part of a series of lovely books.

• Let's Go! On A Digger

  Author: Rosalyn Albert Illustrator: Natalia Moore
  Publisher: New Frontier
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  This lovely rhyming board book for toddlers tells a little story about a girl experiencing the dream of many toddlers – getting to drive a big yellow digger! 

• Let's Go, Fire Truck!

  Author: Fhiona Galloway
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  Firefighter Bear's fire truck zooms down the street; the truck goes nee-naw, nee-naw! and its lights flash - there's a busy day ahead! Toddlers just learning about trucks and cars and the ever- popular emergency services will adore this bright book which is perfect for repeated reading.

• Let's Play!: Poems About Sports and Games from Around the World

  Author: Debjani Chatterjee and Brian D’Arcy Illustrator: Shirin Adl
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  Chatterjee and D'Arcy have selected almost 40 poems about sports and games from around the world.

• Let's Play, Cheetah

  Author: Jo Lodge
  Publisher: Campbell Books (Macmillan)
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  A cheetah with googly eyes is doing lots of fun activities! A bright board book for little ones, this one also has enduring appeal as babies become toddlers and start learning words. 

• Let's Save the Animals

  Author: Frances Barry
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  Each colourful spread features one of ten endangered species, with a boldly printed statement for beginner readers swirling across the page.

• Letters from an Alien Schoolboy

  Author: Ros Asquith
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Flowkwee is on a mission – he has to disguise himself as a schoolboy and spy on young earthlings, in order to help his father with his research

• Letters from the Lighthouse

  Author: Emma Carroll
  Publisher: Faber and Faber
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Olive and her brother have been evacuated to Devon, but big sister Sukie is still missing from the night of the bombs. Emma Carroll is a natural storyteller: there's a good twist towards the end that even the most wily readers won't see coming. 

• Letters to Anyone and Everyone

  Author: Toon Tellegen Illustrator: Jessica Ahlberg Translator: Martin Cleaver
  Publisher: Boxer
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  Discover a collection of extraordinary letters in this magical new volume of short stories.

• Level 2: The Memory Chronicles

  Author: Lenore Appelhans
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  Since her death the day before her 18th birthday, Felicia has been stuck in Level 2 - an otherworldly waiting room between heaven and hell where she replays memories of her life on earth.

• Level Up!

  Author: Tom Nicoll Illustrator: Anjan Sarkar
  Publisher: Stripes Publishing
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  A fun and mildly scary virtual romp through a computer game packed with space paraphernalia and gadgetry. Entertaining black-and-white illustrations add atmosphere and more than a few laughs.

• Level Up! Block and Roll

  Author: Tom Nicoll Illustrator: Anjan Sarkar
  Publisher: Stripes
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 6+

  Best friends Max and Flo find themselves trapped inside Max’s favourite construction video game, Blocktopia. How will they leave? This accessible science fiction adventure series is funny, fast-paced and ideal for those who enjoy gaming.

• Lexiland

  Author: Suzi Moore
  Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  Ten-year-old Emma has decided to change the date of her birthday. Last year, her identical twin, Laura, choked on a piece of birthday cake and died - so a new date is essential.

• Liam

  Author: Benjamin Zephaniah Illustrator: Dan Taylor
  Publisher: Collins Education
  Interest age: 10-12
  Reading age: 7-9

  Teenager Liam plans to track down his birth parents, but there are secrets and surprises in store along the way in this short illustrated novel.

• Liar and Spy

  Author: Rebecca Stead
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  Georges is having a miserable time at school and at home - until eccentric neighbour Safer recruits him to join his Spy Club and he is drawn into an investigation of the mysterious Mr X.

• Lia's Guide to Winning the Lottery

  Author: Keren David
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 12+

  When 16-year-old Lia wins eight million pounds in the lottery it seems like a dream come true. But money can make things more complicated than you'd think...

• Library Lion

  Author: Michelle Knudsen Illustrator: Kevin Hawkes
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 3-7
  Reading age: 5+

  One day, a lion turns up at the library and no-one knows quite what to do - not even Miss Merriweather, the head librarian, who has rules for most things. However, the lion turns out to be rather a nice lion and so he's allowed to stay, as long as he doesn't roar.

• Liccle Bit

  Author: Alex Wheatle
  Publisher: Atom
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 12+

  At school Lemar, also known as Liccle Bit due to his height, is like any teenage boy. He's in love with a girl who barely notices him, he mucks about with his best mates and he spends a lot of time doodling in his work books. However, at home...

• Liesl & Po

  Author: Lauren Oliver
  Publisher: Hodder
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  Death and danger are balanced against friendship and love in this intoxicating blend of adventure, fairy tale and fantasy

• Life Doesn’t Frighten Me

  Author: Maya Angelou Illustrator: Jean-Michel Basquiat Editor: Sara Jane Boyers
  Publisher: Abrams
  Interest age: 7-12
  Reading age: 9+

  Maya Angelou’s seminal poem Life Doesn’t Frighten Me, about the courage inside us all (whatever age our age), is matched for the first time with paintings by artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.

• Life is Magic

  Author: Meg McLaren
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  When assistant Houdini accidentally transforms Monsieur Lapin into a rabbit, he is determined that the show must go on. This delightful tale about working together and helping your friends is full of warmth and humour.

• Life of Riley: Beginner's Luck

  Author: Simon James Green
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Following a badly timed sneeze at a funfair, Riley finds himself cursed - everything he does is doomed to be a complete disaster, whether it's wetting himself onstage or losing the school rabbit. Could his cool new friend Brad Chicago be the antidote?

• Life on Earth: Human Body

  Author: Heather Alexander Illustrator: Andres Lozano
  Publisher: Wide Eyed Editions
  Interest age: 5-8
  Reading age: 6_

  Ideal for children in Year 1 or 2, this introduction to the body is visually appealing and interactive with just the right level of text and information.

• Life: An Exploded Diagram

  Author: Mal Peet
  Publisher: Walker Books Ltd
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 13+

  In this intelligent young adult novel, Clem's coming-of-age story of first love and burgeoning sexuality is woven around a tense account of the mounting Cuban Missile Crisis

• Lifers

  Author: M A Griffin
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 15+
  Reading age: 14+

  Set in a Manchester run by extreme right-wing Neo Conservatives, this novel looks at the possibilities of illegal youth detention and human rights. But Preston will do whatever it takes to get Alice back, even if it means risking his own life.

• Lifesize Deadly Animals

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

  Cleverly showing the actual size of predators – or their deadly teeth, feet or coils – using vibrant illustrations, this book conveys a lot of information in an appealing, bite-size way.

  ---

  Mae'r llyfr clyfar hwn yn dangos union faint anifeiliaid marwol – neu eu rhannau allweddol. 

• Lift and Look Bugs

  Author: Tracy Cottingham
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Published in partnership with the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew, this board book for young readers explores some of the places we can find bugs. Each page is an explosion of colour, which can’t fail to grab the attention of any budding naturalists and gardeners.

• Lift-the-Flap Biggest, Fastest, Tallest

  Author: Darren Stobbart Illustrator: Kasia Serafin
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Have you ever wondered which is the world’s longest bridge? What about the strongest animal? Or the tallest building?

  A little like the Guinness World Records, this book is full of record-breaking facts. Readers can explore the fastest, strongest, tallest and longest things on the planet, both natural and man-made. Lots of people probably know the cheetah is…

• Lift-the-Flap Periodic Table

  Author: Alice James Shaw Nielsen and Emily Barden
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 7-11
  Reading age: 8+

  It may be difficult for some people to imagine a non-fiction book about the periodic table being entertaining, funny and revelatory – but this is that book. A tremendous feat, full of facts to delight readers of all ages.

• Lift-the-flap Questions and Answers about Racism

  Author: Jordan Akpojaro Illustrator: Ashley Evans
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6-8

  Split into eight sections, this addition to Usborne’s appealing lift-the-flap nonfiction series of books tackles a weighty and yet important issue: racism.

• Lift-the-flap Strongest, Cleverest, Deadliest...

  Author: Lan Cook and Darren Stobbart Illustrator: Dominique Byron
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  In this lift-the-flap book of record-breaking facts, readers can explore everything from the hottest and coldest things on Earth to the smelliest, loudest, cleverest, fiercest and weirdest! 

• Light

  Author: Michael Grant
  Publisher: Electric Monkey
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  The final book in the Fayz series will more than satisfy the high expectations of the many fans of Michael Grant's addictive saga.

• Lightning Chase Me Home

  Author: Amber Lee Dodd
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  This is an unusual adventure story that successfully holds the reader under its spell. A growing sense of danger rumbles in the background and it combines a convincing contemporary context with timeless mystery and magic.

• Lightning Falls

  Author: Amy Wilson
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  An intense build-up of mystery and jeopardy will keep readers gripped in this fantasy thriller that crosses two worlds.

• Lightning Mary

  Author: Anthea Simmons
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Lightning Mary tells the true story of Mary Anning, a Victorian fossil expert, whose discoveries of the ichthyosaur contributed to changes in scientific thinking about the history of the earth. A brilliant read.

• Lights on Cotton Rock

  Author: David Litchfield
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
  Interest age: 8-12
  Reading age: 6+

  Late one night, Heather sneaks out of her house, into the woods and down to Cotton Rock. She loves the idea of going into space and visiting the stars, but most of all she wants to meet an alien. Sitting on the rock and signalling into the sky with her torch, her dream comes true when a friendly alien arrives in its multicoloured spaceship. But they soon hav…

• Like a Charm

  Author: Elle McNicoll
  Publisher: Knights Of
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 10+

  Readers of all ages will fall in love with this neurodivergent, beret-rocking protagonist. Thankfully, the promise of a sequel suggests that they can be reunited with her soon. 

• Like a Curse

  Author: Elle McNicoll
  Publisher: Knights of Media
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 10+

  Ramya must save her Hidden Folk friends in Edinburgh from the deadly Sirens – but she’s been cruelly betrayed. A thrilling fantasy that celebrates difference.

• Lilliput

  Author: Sam Gayton
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  A memorable and magical spin on Gulliver's Travels.

• Lily Alone

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Doubleday Children's Books
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  Lily's self-centred young mother jets off to a holiday in Spain with her new boyfriend. Lily and her three younger siblings are carelessly left behind.

• Lily and the Polar Bears

  Author: Jion Sheibani
  Publisher: Faber & Faber
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  This charming, funny, sweet picture book combines concerns about arctic erosion, animal conservation and immigration in a lovely story about polar bears. It’s sure to be a favourite with little ones, who will love Sheibani's illustration.

• Lily and the Rockets

  Author: Rebecca Stevens
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9+

  A fascinating, engaging and empowering story of Lily, a teenage munitions worker at the Woolwich Arsenal, and the origins of women’s football during the First World War.

• Limelight Larry

  Author: Leigh Hodgkinson
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 4+

  Limelight Larry is delighted when he finds an empty book - he can be the star of the story! Then a whole host of storybook characters arrive and Larry - much to his outrage - is pushed out of the limelight...

• Line Of Fire: Diary Of An Unknown Soldier

  Author: Barroux Translator: Sarah Ardizzone
  Publisher: Phoenix Yard Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  In this striking graphic novel adaptation of a 100-year-old diary, the events of the first two months of WWI are told through the eyes of the unknown soldier. This is living history in the form of one man's story silhouetted against the historical events of 1914 that formed and transformed the world we live in today.

  Amazingly, the author/artist Barroux …

• Lines

  Author: Suzy Lee
  Publisher: Chronicle Books
  Interest age: 6-8
  

  A winter-themed wordless picture book about a skating girl that is both deceptively simple and completely delightful.

• Linger

  Author: Maggie Stiefvater
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  The second novel in the projected Mercy Falls trilogy reintroduces us to Sam and Grace, and concentrates on the relationship developing between them as humans.

• Lion and Mouse

  Author: Catalina Echeverri
  Publisher: Jonathan Cape
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 5+

  Lion has got a seriously big ego: he thinks he’s the best, the funniest, the loudest and the bravest. All the while, his friend Mouse is feeling weaker, quieter and smaller than ever

• Lion Lessons

  Author: Jon Agee
  Publisher: Scallywag Press
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  It’s not easy getting your lion diploma. The little boy who ventures into the Lion Lessons shop on the high street certainly finds it difficult to make his instructor happy – that is, until a neighbourhood cat is in danger…

• Lion Practice

  Author: Emma Carlisle
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Laura goes to long and noisry lengths to remind her mum and dad she's still there after a new sibling arrives on the scene.

• Lion vs Rabbit

  Author: Alex Latimer
  Publisher: Picture Corgi
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Lion is a bully, and is mean to all the other animals - but then Rabbit comes up to the rescue. Although he is small and Lion is big, he still manages to teach him a lesson.

• Lionheart

  Author: Richard Collingridge
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 6+

  With his beloved soft toy Lionheart at his side, Richard has the courage to confront his night-time fears. This enchanting picture book has warm, atmospheric illustrations.

• Lionheart Girl

  Author: Yaba Badoe
  Publisher: Head of Zeus
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Raised in a household of powerful West African witches, Sheba is a princess in her village – but she’s terrified of her mother, who has the frightening ability to transform herself into a crow and is gripped by hatred and jealousy. A bewitching, often dark, magical realism novel.

• Liquidator

  Author: Andy Mulligan
  Publisher: DB Fickling
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  Vicky's work experience as a sandwich-maker at a solicitors turns into an adventure when she uncovers a big secret.

• Listen to the Birds

  Author: Marion Billet
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Listen to the calls of six different garden birds in this beautiful little book. From blackbirds to pigeons, just press the button on each page to hear what they sound like - and then perhaps step into your garden or park to see if you can hear them in the wild.

• Listen to the Music

  Author: Mary Richards Illustrator: Caroline Bonne-Müller
  Publisher: Wide Eyed Editions
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  Join Sammy and Pip as they meet a range of brilliant musicians across time, and press the buttons on each page to hear samples - a great introduction to different types of music.

• Listen to the Things that Go

  Author: Marion Billet
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 3+

  This lovely interactive book will help small children learn new vocabulary for vehicles, as well as the names of the animals driving them.

• Listen, Layla

  Author: Yassmin Abdel-Magied
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 10-12
  Reading age: 10+

  Born in Sudan but brought up in Australia, funny and clever Layla longs to be an inventor, but life takes her back to Sudan in the middle of a revolution. To which country does she belong? This powerful book would be a great addition to any school library.

• Listening to the Quiet

  Author: Cassie Silva Illustrator: Frances Ives
  Publisher: Lantana
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 4-5

  A beautiful and thought-provoking picture book about a mum losing her hearing.

• LISTIFIED! Britannica’s 300 lists that will blow your mind

  Author: Andrew Pettie Illustrator: Andres Lozano
  Publisher: Britannica Books
  Interest age: 8-11
  Reading age: 8+

  In this brilliant compendium of lists, you can find out all manner of amazing facts and rankings. The listicle format is a great one to use to engage young readers and it's the perfect book for inspiring some great “did you know?” conversations.

• Little Albatross

  Author: Michael Morpurgo Illustrator: Michael Foreman
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  Little Albatross stays snug and warm in his nest while his mother and father fly off to hunt for fish. As he grows bigger they decide it will be safe to leave him and go off hunting together.

• Little Badman and the Invasion of the Killer Aunties

  Author: Humza Arshad and Henry White Illustrator: Aleksei Bitskoff
  Publisher: Puffin Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Humza Khan is an 11-year-old who devotes most of his energy into trying to be a cool rapper, AKA Little Badman. A perfect read for Tom Gates fans: prepare for big belly laughs and great advice on how to be yourself.

• Little Bear's Little Boat

  Author: Eve Bunting
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's Books
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 2+

  One day, Little Bear is no longer so little and no longer fits snugly into his little boat. Will he have to give it up?

• Little Beauty

  Author: Anthony Browne
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 6+

  When a very special gorilla learns to use sign language, he is able to ask his keepers for anything he needs but what he wants most of all is a friend.

• Little Bird Flies

  Author: Karen McCombie
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 12-14
  Reading age: 12+

  A beautiful story of changing times and the upheaval of a small rural community, seen through the eyes of one young person.

• Little Bird Lands

  Author: Karen McCrombie
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 10-14
  Reading age: 9+

  This sequel to Little Bird Flies charts a 19th century family's journey from Scotland to America. Shown through the eyes of teenager Bridie, their search for a better life leads them to a sometimes dangerous new world.

• Little Bits of Sky

  Author: S E Durrant
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9+

  Ira and Jack arrive at Skilly House, a home for foster children, and realise that life is about to get very interesting. Set against the backdrop of the 1990 poll tax strikes, this is a personal and heartfelt tale of growing up as a child in care. 

• Little Boat

  Author: Thomas Docherty
  Publisher: Templar
  

  Discover the world with Little Boat - this is a wonderfully illustrated sea adventure.

• Little Boat

  Author: Taro Gomi
  Publisher: Chronicle Books
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Little Boat is navigating the big sea all by himself. Will he make it through the storm? A gentle and reassuring adventure that would make a nice first bedtime story.

• Little Darlings

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Yearling
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  An immensely readable novel which handles serious issues – fractured families, the nature of celebrity – with the lightest of touches.

• Little Drivers to the Rescue!

  Author: Dan Crisp
  Publisher: Child's Play
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 3+

  • Double-sided figures so you can choose if the boy or girl drives.

  • Colourful illustrations and simple text.

  • Why not use your own photos to put your child in the story?

• Little Eli: Egg, Cards, Pencil

  Author: Laura Bellini
  Publisher: Tiny Owl
  Interest age: 7-12
  Reading age: N/A

  This unusual and beautiful set of three tall, thin hardbacks in their slipcase chronicle Eli the dragonfly's simple story of perseverance without any words.

• Little Explorers: Science

  Author: Templar Books
  Publisher: Templar Books
  Interest age: 6-8
  

  This would make a lovely addition particularly to a school library, or a great gift for a young science enthusiast with lots of questions.

• Little Faces: Happy Halloween!

  Author: Pintachan
  Publisher: Words & Pictures Press
  Interest age: 1-3
  Reading age: n/a

  When Spider says Boo! to his Halloween friends, they transform: Ghost fades away to become really ghostly, Witch turns into a black cat and Pumpkin lights up into a Jack-o-Lantern! When they’re all ready, it’s time for Trick or Treating!

• Little Frida: A Story of Frida Kahlo

  Author: Anthony Browne
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 4-8
  Reading age: 6+

  The masterstroke of this dreamy picture book by the former Children's Laureate is to focus on Frida Kahlo's childhood and see the little girl behind the icon. In turn, many children will relate to its themes of bullying and belonging, imagination and hope.

• Little Frog

  Author: Jakob Martin Strid Illustrator: Jakob Martin Strid
  Publisher: Alanna books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  One beautiful summer's night a meteor falls from the sky. Inside is Little Frog. Father and Mother Frog think he's cute, but rapidly discover he is VERY NAUGHTY.

• Little Frog's Tadpole Trouble

  Author: Tatyana Feeney
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  Simple, but wonderfully expressive, d­­etailed line drawings, and a green froggy font add additional layers of humour to this funny yet reassuring story of new sibling anxiety.

• Little Glow

  Author: Katie Sahota Illustrator: Harry Woodgate
  Publisher: Owlet Press
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  This glimmering, gorgeous book is a gentle story that showcases the amazing celebrations of light across different communities, including Lunar New Year, Diwali, Hanukkah and Ramadan.

• Little Green Donkey

  Author: Anuska Allepuz
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Little Donkey loves, loves, loves grass! In fact, Little Donkey doesn’t want to eat anything other than grass for ever and ever. But then Little Donkey eats so much just grass, she turns… green! A hilarious story with a very funny final twist that gently touches on the quirks of fussy eaters.

• Little Home Bird

  Author: Jo Empson
  Publisher: Child’s Play
  Interest age: 3-8
  Reading age: 5+

  Little Bird was happy. But one day, everything changed. A gentle and enchanting story, with stunning illustrations, which will reassure children who have more than one home.

• Little Horror

  Author: Daniel Peak
  Publisher: Firefly Press
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Rita Jeffreys is only two years old but has the intellect of an adult. She tries to keep her talent under wraps but events take a sinister turn when someone discovers her secret. A hilarious tale with a madcap plot, wacky characters and plenty of twists and turns.

• Little House in the Big Woods

  Author: Laura Ingalls Wilder
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  Inside the little house live the Ingalls family: Ma, Pa, Mary, Laura and baby Carrie.

• Little Jungle Explorers

  Author: Anthony Lewis
  Publisher: Child’s Play
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 4+

  Colourful board book with double-sided explorer figure!

• Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History

  Author: Vashti Harrison
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  This beautiful and profound book chronicles the struggles and achievements of historic and contemporary black women. Not just for girls, this is an inspiring book for any child as it shows how determination, ambition and hard work can bring important change.

• Little Leaders: Visionary Women Around the World

  Author: Vashti Harrison
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  What is a visionary? We usually think of people who dare to dream and think outside the box: to see things differently, and change the way everyone else sees the world. The women in Vashti Harrison’s beautifully illustrated book certainly fill this criteria.

• Little Legends: the spell thief

  Author: Tom Percival
  Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7-9

  When new boy Anansi arrives in Tale Town, everyone welcomes him to his new home, except for Jack. Missing a parent and feeling unease about a new friend are handled in an interesting, engaging way that doesn't push the moral.

• Little Life Cycles: Frog

  Author: Maggie Li
  Publisher: Templar Books
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  Follow Frog from egg to tadpole to frog in this tactile introduction to life cycles. With peep-through holes and friendly illustrations, this is perfect for toddlers.

• Little Lou and the Woolly Mammoth

  Author: Paula Bowles
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 0-5
  Reading age: 6+

  This rhyming picture book tells an entertaining and engaging story with funny twists, which is great to read out loud.

• Little Manfred

  Author: Michael Morpurgo Illustrator: Michael Foreman
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9+

  Masterful storytelling enhanced by apt and atmospheric illustrations

• Little Monkey

  Author: Marta Altés
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  Humorous illustrations in pencil and watercolour fill every page of this amusing tale, which is sure to strike a chord with any fearless little adventurer who is desperate to grow up.

• Little Mouse's Big Book of Beasts

  Author: Emily Gravett
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  Little Mouse is back and in this story he encounters a book about frightening and ferocious fearsome beasts.

• Little Mouse's Big Book of Fears

  Author: Emily Gravett
  Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  Little Mouse is scared of most things, from creepy crawlies and loud noises, to getting lost.

• Little Owl, Little Owl Can't You Sleep?

  Author: Jo Lodge
  Publisher: Campbell Books
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  Little Owl can’t sleep, as the forest creatures are all too noisy. Jo Lodge's Wiggle and Giggle series pairs silliness with lots of interaction – and, in this particular book, ends the fun in a snoozy bedtime. Everyone will be deliciously sleepy by lights out!

• Little People, Big Dreams: Agatha Christie

  Author: Isabel Sanchez Vegara Illustrator: Elisa Muso
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 7+

  This delightful biography for young readers introduces the life of the writer Agatha Christie. As well as highlighting her achievements, the book quietly emphasises how wonderful the imagination can be, and how this can inspire others, too.

• Little People, Big Dreams: Josephine Baker

  Author: Isabel Sanchez Vegara Illustrator: Agathe Sorlet
  Publisher: Lincoln Children's Books
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Looking back at the life of Josephine Baker, this book captures a bubbly personality but also shows another side to this public figure, away from the jazz and razzmatazz. As ever, the Little People, Big Dreams series both educates and inspires. 

• Little People, Big Dreams: Maya Angelou

  Author: Lisbeth Kaiser Illustrator: Leire Salaberria
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 6+

  This inspiring biography for young readers focusses on writer, speaker and civil rights activist Maya Angelou.

• Little People, Big Dreams: Muhammad Ali

  Author: Ma Isabel Sánchez Vegara
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 6+

  Learn about African-American boxer Muhammad Ali in this accessible picture book biography for young children. This title builds on the inspiring Little People, Big Dreams series, which has expanded to include books about extraordinary men. 

• Little People, Big Dreams: Wilma Mankiller

  Author: Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara Illustrator: Alexandra Bowman
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 6+

  This is the story of the incredible life of Wilma Mankiller, the first female leader of the Cherokee Nation and dedicated activist and eco-warrior. This brightly illustrated picture book is sure to be read and re-read for years to come. 

• Little Princess: I Want My Dad

  Author: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Little Princess loves her dad, the King, but she can't help but be a little envious of the other fathers in the castle. But when she's feeling blue, it's her Dad who cheers her up again. A perfect story for fathers and children to share.

• Little Princess: I Want Snow

  Author: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  When the Queen sends a postcard from the South Pole, the Little Princess decides that she wants snow RIGHT NOW - but it's the middle of summer. A funny, charming addition to the Little Princess series.

• Little Rabbit Foo Foo

  Author: Michael Rosen Illustrator: Arthur Robins
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 5+

  The subject of bullying is tackled with humour and the bully is given the stark choice of either changing his behaviour or facing the negative consequences.

• Little Rabbit’s Big Surprise

  Author: Swapna Haddow Illustrator: Alison Friend
  Publisher: Stripes Publishing
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Introducing a charming little rabbit character, this is an ideal story to bridge the gap between picture books and independent reading, with glossy pages and full-colour illustrations on every page.

• Little Red

  Author: Bethan Woollvin
  Publisher: Two Hoots
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 6+

  This contemporary interpretation of a familiar classic - Little Red Riding Hood - is a joy to read. Bold monochrome images, punctuated with vibrant blocks of red, form a striking visual accompaniment to the dark, witty tale.

• Little Red and the Very Hungry Lion

  Author: Alex T Smith
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  This is a warm and fun-filled take on a much-loved story that young readers will find impossible to resist.

• Little Red Hood

  Author: Marjolaine Leray Translator: Sarah Ardizzone
  Publisher: Phoenix Yard Books
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 6+

  Little Red Hood wonders unwittingly into the path of the Big Bad Wolf

• Little Red Reading Hood

  Author: Lucy Rowland Illustrator: Ben Mantle
  Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  Written in witty verse and accompanied by colourful illustrations, this wonderful contemporary tale is great to read aloud and ideal to show young children that stories have the power to take readers on all sorts of exciting, imaginative journeys.

• Little Red Train's Race to the Finish

  Author: Benedict Blathwayt
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Swish Trains have challenged Little Red Train to a race, and whoever wins will gain the franchise on the seaside line. But it isn't a fair race...

• Little Robin Red Vest

  Author: Jan Fearnley
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Jan Fearnley’s tale of how Robin got his red breast is celebrating its 20 years' anniversary. With fresh artwork and a lovely hardback gift edition, this is a lovely Christmas present for picture book fans.

• Little Santa

  Author: Jon Agee
  Publisher: Scallywag Press
  Reading age: 4-8

  A wonderfully entertaining festive tale, perfect for anyone who has ever wondered what Santa was like as a child. Full of quirky detail and subtle humour.

• Little Stars: A Hetty Feather Adventure

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Yearling
  Interest age: 9+ with caution
  Reading age: 7+

  Hetty Feather has begun a new chapter in her life story. Escaping from Tanglefield's Travelling Circus with her dearest friend Diamond, Hetty is determined to find them positions as glamorous music hall artistes.
  
  

• Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain

  Author: Edward Ardizzone
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 6+

  This charming and ultimately reassuring story is a reissue of Edward Ardizzone's classic 1936 picture book.

• Little Truck

  Author: Taro Gomi
  Publisher: Chronicle Books
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Little Truck is eager to get ahead but he needs the help of his ever-watchful parent when he gets tired. A cute and concise story about little ones taking their first steps of independence: the illustrations are really effective and the text is lovely to read aloud.

• Little Turtle and the Sea

  Author: Becky Davies Illustrator: Jennie Poh
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  A beautiful picture book following the life of Little Turtle, as she watches her beloved ocean become home to more and more plastic waste. There's also lots of helpful information on conservation and how we can help save marine wildlife.

• Little Why

  Author: Jonny Lambert
  Publisher: Little Tiger Press
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Natural curiosity is weighed against necessary caution in this story about accepting yourself. It is accompanied by elegant, expressive, endearingly gawky illustrations.

• Little Wolf

  Author: Peter Donnelly
  Publisher: Hachette Children’s Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Will little wolf cub find his inner howl in time for the big Howling Ceremony? Little Wolf is a heartfelt tale of courage, perseverance, family, friendship and proving that even the smallest voice can make the sweetest sound. 

• Little Wolf's Diary of Daring Deeds

  Author: Ian Whybrow Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Harper Collins
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Little Wolf and cousin Yeller Wolf (self-appointed heads of their 'Adventure Academy') fall prey to criminal Mister Twister the Fox.

• Little Women

  Author: Louisa May Alcott
  Publisher: Signet
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 12+

  The novel follows the lives of four sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy March—detailing their passage from childhood to womanhood

  The story begins at Christmas time. The March girls, Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy, are unhappy because they have agreed to give up their Christmas presents.

• Live Like a Roman: Discovering the Secrets of Ancient Rome

  Author: Claire Saunders Illustrator: Ruth Hickson
  Publisher: Button Books
  

  A comprehensive, accessible guide to what it would have been like to live in Ancient Rome, with engaging activities and illustrations to bring the facts to life. Enjoyable reading at school or at home.

• Lizzie and Lucky: The Mystery of the Disappearing Rabbit

  Author: Megan Rix Illustrator: Tim Budgen
  Publisher: Penguin Random House
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 5+

  Perfect for animal lovers and mystery fans alike, this gentle series stars a Deaf character and her beloved dog. Can Lizzie and Lucky find Ruby, the star magician’s rabbit?

  ---

  Mae yna gystadleuaeth hud yn y dref ac mae Lizzie, ei chi Lucky a'i ffrind Ted yn llawn cyffro i'w gweld. Bydd yr enwog Lady Azeena'n perfformio gyda'i chwningen Ruby – ac mae hi'n fydda…

• Lizzie and Lucky: The Mystery of the Missing Puppies

  Author: Megan Rix Illustrator: Tim Budgen
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  When Lizzie spots a suspicious man stealing a puppy from a garden, she's determined to investigate! An engaging illustrated early reader book, this is the first in the series to feature Lizzie (who is deaf) and Lucky the dog.

• Lizzie Zipmouth

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Young Corgi
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  This is a poignant and often funny book, which looks at ways of coping with a new step-family.

• Llama Glamarama

  Author: Simon James Green Illustrator: Garry Parsons
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Larry the llama has a secret: at night, he becomes a dazzling llama with a penchant for sparkle. Yet Larry worries that the other llamas won’t understand. Will Larry find a place where he fits in? And, perhaps, will he end up feeling comfortable enough to be himself with the other llamas too?

• Llama on a Mission

  Author: Annabelle Sami Illustrator: Allen Fatimaharan
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 8+

  After seven years of refusing to speak a word, ten-year-old Yasmin must now learn how to use her voice effectively, helped by a secret guardian: a llama called Levi. Full of mayhem and zany humour, and accompanied by hilarious black-and-white illustrations.

• Llama Out Loud

  Author: Annabelle Sami Illustrator: Allen Fatimaharan
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Yasmin is the quiet one in a really loud family, until Levi the magic toy llama comes along and forces everyone to listen to her.

• Llama United: The Team With An Impossible Dream

  Author: Scott Allen Illustrator: Sarah Horne
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Tim’s dad has turned to farming - and the neighbour's new llamas, grazing the farm fields, just happen to play brilliant football. Arthur’s narrating voice is very funny, the llamas are hilarious and the cup matches genuinely exciting.

• Lob

  Author: Linda Newbery Illustrator: Pam Smy
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Lucy and her beloved grandfather enjoy gardening together, and Lucy becomes aware that she, like him, can sense-see a small figure who helps with the gardening.

• Lobsters

  Author: Tom Ellen and Lucy Ivison
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  The first novel from friends and collaborators Tom Ellen and Lucy Ivison, Lobsters is a frank and very funny young adult romance.

• Locked Out Lily

  Author: Nick Lake Illustrator: Emily Gravett
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Wonderfully illustrated by Emily Gravett in an appealingly gothic yet accessible style, Locked Out Lily is a heartfelt story about a child coping with serious illness and dealing with how it has changed her – and her family.

• Lockwood & Co: The Screaming Staircase

  Author: Jonathan Stroud
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 11+

  Best known for his sarcastic djinni creation Bartimaeus, Stroud returns with an equally engaging new series, this time following a young set of ghost hunters

• Lois Lane: Fallout

  Author: Gwenda Bond
  Publisher: Curious Fox
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  This reimagining of Lois Lane as a high school reporter is a fast-paced, tightly plotted and addictive read.

• Lois Looks for Bob at the Park

  Author: Gerry Turley
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Lois searches for her best friend Bob the Budgie in this retro-style lift-the-flap book that both grown-ups and little ones will enjoy.

• Loki: A Bad God’s Guide to Taking the Blame

  Author: Louie Stowell
  Publisher: Walker
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8-9

  Can Loki – god of mischief and prankster schoolboy – convince everyone that he didn’t steal Thor’s hammer? Bursting with illustrations, doodles and comic strips, this is an equally funny sequel to the hilarious Loki: A Bad God’s Guide to Being Good.

• Loki: A Bad God's Guide to Being Good

  Author: Louie Stowell
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 8-11
  Reading age: 8+

  After playing one trick too many, Loki, Norse god of mischief, is sent by Odin to live on earth as an 11-year-old boy for one month to mend his ways. Furious that he must suffer indignities such as attending school and doing chores, Loki struggles to be good.

• Lola Rose

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 9+

  Jacqueline Wilson demonstrates her skill by capturing the experiences of a young carer, fearful about what the cancer will do to her mother.

• Lollipop and Grandpa and the Back Garden Safari

  Author: Penelope Harper Illustrator: Cate James
  Publisher: Phoenix Yard Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Grandpa and Lollipop, neither of them strangers to adventure, are off on a back garden safari, with binoculars, maps and sandwiches - this could be hungry work!

• Lollipop and Grandpa and the Wobbly Tooth

  Author: Penelope Harper Illustrator: Cate Jones
  Publisher: Phoenix Yard Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  Lollipop is proud of her teeth and enjoys brushing one. One day she finds a wibbly wobbly one and doesn't know what to do, but as always Grandpa is on hand with a few ideas.

• Lolly Luck

  Author: Ellie Daines
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Lolly has always been lucky but a series of catastrophes at home threaten both her family life and her experience at school

• London ABC

  Author: Ben Hawkes
  Publisher: Picture Corgi
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 5+

  London is full of amazing places, and Ben Hawkes has selected one for every letter of the alphabet in this charming take on an ABC book.

• London: Everything you Ever Wanted to Know

  Author: Lonely Planet
  Publisher: Lonely Planet
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  This 'not-for-parents' guidebook gives young readers the inside story about one of the world's most famous cities: London.

• Long Gone Don and the Terror-Cotta Army

  Author: The Etherington Brothers
  Publisher: The Phoenix Presents / David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  More gorgeous artwork and fast-paced storytelling show that action, adventure and the undead are all alive and kicking in this new addition to the 'Phoenix Presents' series of graphic novels.

• Long Lankin

  Author: Lindsey Barraclough
  Publisher: Bodley Head Children's Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 11+

  The isolated All Hallows church holds great terrors for Cora and Mimi and their new friends. Here the ghosts of children slain by Long Lankin appear. And now he's coming for Mimi...

• Long Neck and Thunder Foot

  Author: Helen Piers Illustrator: Michael Foreman
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 7+

  Long Neck and Thunder Foot live far away from each other. Neither has ever seen another dinosaur before, so when they come face to face, they are both completely terrified.

• Long Way Down

  Author: Jason Reynolds Illustrator: Chris Priestley
  Publisher: Faber
  Interest age: 12-16
  Reading age: 12+

  Written in verse, Long Way Down is breathtakingly gripping and spectacular. You almost read it without breathing; the action is so tense, the language so powerful. Give it to every teenager you know!

• Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel

  Author: Jason Reynolds Illustrator: Danica Novgorodoff
  Publisher: Faber
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  Will's older brother Shawn is shot dead in front of him, leading Will to the conclusion that revenge is his only option. This hard-hitting tale, based on an award-winning novel in verse by the same author, is extremely accessible in graphic novel format.

• Longbow Girl

  Author: Linda Davies
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 11+

  Merry's and James's families are embroiled in a deep feud. However, this doesn't stop the pair embarking on a dangerous adventure together

• Loo Queue

  Author: Nicholas Allan
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  This book introduces small children to colours and counting, as well as helping increase their animal vocabulary. It has fun, rhyming text with constant repetition that allows young readers to join in too.

• Look

  Author: Fiona Woodcock
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 2-3
  Reading age: 4+

  Every single word in this story, about a brother and sister who go to the zoo, has a double "o" in it. Ooh! Cool! Showcasing stunning typography as well as fabulous illustrations, Look is playful, inventive and inspiring.

• Look After Me

  Author: Aoife Walsh
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 8+

  Teenagers Phoebe and Adam secretly take over the care of a baby entrusted to them by their former foster-sister.

• Look After Us: A lift-the-flap book

  Author: Rod Campbell
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  If anyone can talk simply and clearly to little ones about endangered animals and conservation, it’s Rod Campbell, the famed author of Dear Zoo. This lovely flap book is a great one to read together.

• Look Both Ways

  Author: Jason Reynolds Illustrator: Selom Sunu
  Publisher: Knights Of
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Ten short stories about that strange time when school finishes and children of a certain age (usually around ten years old) get to walk home without adult supervision. Jason Reynolds' writing is gripping, direct, exciting and incredibly readable. 

• Look Inside A Hospital

  Author: Dr Zoe Fritz and Katie Daynes Illustrator: Stefano Tognetti
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  This fantastic board book series from Usborne lets us explore a hospital and some of its busy departments. This could provide a reassuring guide to young people before their first visit to a hospital and is great fun to explore for any budding doctors and nurses.

• Look Inside Jobs

  Author: Lara Bryan Illustrator: Wesley Robbins
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 5-13
  Reading age: 6+

  Discover lots of different kinds of jobs that people do in this fun lift-the-flap book. There are jobs where you have to work as a team, such all the different people needed to help make a plane fly or to make a music album. There are outdoor jobs and indoor jobs. There are the different kinds of jobs you might see people doing as you walk own the street; an…

• Look Inside Space

  Author: Rob Lloyd Jones Illustrator: Benedetta Giaufret and Enrica Rusina
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  Find out why the moon seems to change space, discover what's in the middle of the Milky Way and learn about how planets are made in this brilliant introduction to space, full of sturdy flaps and heaps of detail.

• Look Out! Hungry Snake: A hide-and-seek flap book

  Author: Paul Delaney
  Publisher: Kumusha Books
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  This lovely lift-the-flap book – with good, thick pages and flaps–  is colourful and playful, and introduces little ones to a selection of animals and their noises or actions.

• Look Touch Learn: Sea (Tummy Time)

  Author: Illustrator: Charlotte Archer
  Publisher: Child’s Play
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  A wiggly, slippery fish, a knobbly spiny starfish and swaying rubbery seaweed are just a few interesting words to listen to and shapes to look at in this seaside-inspired book for babies.

• Look Up!

  Author: Nathan Bryon Illustrator: Dapo Adeola
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 6+

  Nathan Bryon and Dapo Adeola’s charming picture book gifts us with a gorgeous character in Rocket, a girl whose passion for all things space is as inspiring to the reader as her heroine Mae Jemison is to her. 

• Look What I've Got!

  Author: Anthony Browne
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 5+

  Jeremy is a pain - he gets everything he wants: a shiny bicycle, a new football, a bag stuffed with lollipops and a trip to the zoo.

• Look, There’s a Helicopter

  Author: Esther Aarts
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-3
  Reading age: 5+

  Fans of helicopters will love this interactive and rhyming board book: just follow the holes in each image to follow the story on the next page...

• Look, there’s a Submarine!

  Author: Esther Aarts
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 1-3
  

  The little yellow submarine is going for a ride under the sea. From tiny red crabs to giant blue whales, there is so much to see. An entertaining addition to any bookshelf.

• Looking After William

  Author: Eve Coy
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  A little girl announces that she's going to be William's mummy for the day - and it soon becomes clear that William is her father. A charming book with warm illustrations reminiscent of Judith Kerr.

• Looking at the Stars

  Author: Jo Cotterill
  Publisher: Bodley Head
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Amina is headstrong and outspoken - traits seen as rebellion in the dictatorship she lives in. Ending up in an aid camp, her storytelling talent helps her, and those around her, keep hope.

• Looking at the Stars

  Author: Lewis Hine
  Publisher: Lagom
  Interest age: 12-18
  Reading age: 12+

  Lewis Hine is the inspirational teen behind life-changing charity Friend Finder Official, and winner of the Radio 1 Teen Hero Award. He’s achieved amazing things, but Lewis’s everyday life is far from simple. This is his story.

• Looking for Alaska

  Author: John Green
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  'If people were rain, I was drizzle and she was a hurricane.' Miles Halter's whole life has been one big non-event, until he meets Alaska Young.

• Looking for JJ

  Author: Anne Cassidy
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  When a 10-year-old girl kills her best friend, she is convicted of manslaughter and locked away. Seven years later she is released on licence with a new identity.

• Looking Glass Girl

  Author: Cathy Cassidy
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 7

  Cathy Cassidy re-imagines the classic Alice in Wonderland story for the book's 150th anniversary.

• Looking Good!

  Author: Ailie Busby
  Publisher: Child’s Play
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  Elephant has floppy ears – do you? Bush baby has some lovely big round eyes. What about you? This delightful board book for babies has nice, thick pages and is perfect for reading aloud to develop little ones' language skills.

• Looshkin

  Author: Jamie Smart
  Publisher: David Fickling books
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7+

  Looshkin is named ‘the maddest cat in the world’ for good reason – anything that could possibly go wrong all comes down to this kitty. An outrageously fun graphic novel in a class of its own for silliness.

• Looshkin Oof! Right in the Puddings!

  Author: Jamie Smart
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 9-1
  Reading age: 8+

  Laugh yourself silly reading the antics of Looshkin – ‘the maddest cat ever’. Short storylines in the form of comic strips mean this second Looshkin book is just as irresistible and highly accessible as the first.

• Lord Loss

  Author: Darren Shan
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Grubbs Grady thinks he's having a bad day when he's caught smoking and sent home from school. Very soon however, he learns that this is the least of his worries.

• Lori and Max

  Author: Catherine O’Flynn
  Publisher: Firefly Press
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Schoolgirl-turned-private investigator Lori must use all her prestigious detecting skills if she is to solve the mystery of her best friend’s disappearance. A fast-paced crime adventure that is funny, sad and challenging, and always a true page-turner.

• Lori and Max and the Book Thieves

  Author: Catherine O'Flynn
  Publisher: Firefly
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Ten year old Lori wants to be a detective when she grows up, and she's got all the kit - but crimes are a bit thin on the ground. That is, until her best friend Max's phone is stolen and the pair leap into action!

• Losing It

  Author: Various Editor: Keith Gray
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 10+

  This is a collection of eight short stories about growing-up, virginity and sex for teenagers.

• Lost

  Author: Eve Ainsworth
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Alfie used to be good at football, but now his mother is dead and he no longer has the heart to play. A friendship with troubled Alice helps him cope with grief. A moving, convincing story about the delicate relationships between father, son and friend. 

• Lost and Found

  Author: Oliver Jeffers
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Once there was a sad, lonely penguin who appeared at the door of a young boy. The boy decided he must be lost, so he set off to find his home.

• Lost Christmas

  Author: David Logan
  Publisher: Quercus
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 9+

  Goose is lost until Anthony appears - a man who knows nothing about himself but sees and feels the secret pain of all those who shake his hand

• Lost for Words

  Author: Aoife Walsh
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Lost for Words is a heart-warming book that brings the importance of libraries and families together. It's an exceptional example of children never giving up and letting the adults have their way.

• Lost in the Toy Museum

  Author: David Lucas
  Publisher: Walker Books Ltd
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 4+

  Set in the Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green, East London, this magical book takes you through all of David Lucas' favourite toys in the collection.

• Lost Magic: The Very Best of Brian Moses

  Author: Brian Moses
  Publisher: Macmillan Poetry
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 8+

  Brian Moses gathers 100 of his own favourite - and brilliant - poems from his prolific career, which spans nearly 30 years, into a beautiful hardback book.

• Lost Riders

  Author: Elizabeth Laird
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 9+

  A powerful and challenging story, this title is ideal for children with an interest in social issues and the lives of others across the world.

• Lost Tales

  Author: Adam & Lisa Murphy
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7-9

  Corpse Talk author Adam Murphy and colourist/co-creator Lisa Murphy have been delving into all four corners of the earth to bring you a collection of fascinating myths and legends from all over the world.

• LOST! The Hundred-Mile-An-Hour Dog

  Author: Jeremy Strong Illustrator: Rowan Clifford
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 8+

  A madcap story of Dazzy Donut Dog, aka Streaker, whose hilarious antics and outrageous exploits barely keep pace with the tornado that is Streaker, the fastest dog in the world.

• Lots

  Author: Marc Martin
  Publisher: Bonnier Publishing
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  This beautiful book celebrates the world we live in: there are LOTS of people, places, landscapes and cultures to see. Marc Martin's illustrations capture the spirit of every place and culture, igniting the travelling bug for young explorers.

• Lots of Frogs

  Author: Howard Calvert Illustrator: Claudia Bolt
  Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Even if you're not sure where the phrase 'as mad as a box of frogs' comes from, Howard Calvert’s story appears to be proof that with a box of frogs, madness ensues. Seriously silly fun that is sure to make little ones laugh. 

• Lots: The Diversity of Life on Earth

  Author: Nicola Davies Illustrator: Emily Sutton
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  This is a book to pore and ponder over, from reading the story to picking out the different creatures in each picture, to reading the funny and fascinating animal names.

• Lottie Potter Wants an Otter

  Author: Jeanne Willis Illustrator: Leonie Lord
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  Lottie Potter wants… you guessed it: an otter! So she trots off down into town to visit Mr Trotter's Otters - but which one's the best? This really rather nutty story is lots of fun and very gigglesome.

• Lou Out of Luck

  Author: Nat Luurtsema
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 10-14
  Reading age: 10+

  Lou’s life is not going to plan, but maybe she can rescue the situation with a little help from her performance club and a second-best friend who is into stuffed stoats. A great choice for anyone looking for light reading that will make them laugh out loud.

• Loud!

  Author: Rose Robbins
  Publisher: Scallywag Press
  Interest age: 4-8
  

  Abigail is always fidgeting and giggling at school until Miss Butler discovers her love of singing and songwriting. It’s implied that Abigail has ADHD but this beautifully delivered book will resonate with any child who's ever found it tricky to do what is expected of them.

• Loudmouth Louis

  Author: Anne Fine Illustrator: Kate Aldous
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 6-10
  Reading age: 7+

  We all talk a lot at times, but Louis Todd (aka Loudmouth Louis) talks more than most. In fact, he never stops talking. Ever.

• Louie Lets Loose!

  Author: Rachel Hamilton Illustrator: Oscar Armelles
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7-9

  Louie the unicorn lives a quiet life with his parents in Story Land, until his invite to the New York School of Performing Arts arrives. This book is a fantastically funny tale of friendship and adapting to a new school.

• Love and Chicken Nuggets (Pippa Morgan's Diary 2)

  Author: Annie Kelsey
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 7-12
  Reading age: 8

  A funny story about an endearing heroine whose misguided intentions result in numerous entertaining escapades.

• Love Frankie

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 12-14
  Reading age: 10+

  14 year old Frankie is having to grow up quickly to help her mum with her developing MS - and now that one of her bullies is starting to strike up an actual friendship with her, Frankie's starting to think it might be something a little more. A delicate exploration of teen sexuality and the difficulties of growing up by the inimitable Jacqueline Wilson.

• Love from Paddington

  Author: Michael Bond Illustrator: Peggy Fortnum and R W Alley
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 6+

  Here are fifteen letters from Paddington Bear to his Aunt Lucy in the Home for Retired Bears in Lima, Peru.

• Love Giraffes Can't Dance

  Author: Giles Andreae Illustrator: Guy Parker-Rees
  Publisher: Orchard
  Interest age: 1-4
  

  Love makes a giraffe sing, skip, leap and boogie in this lovely board book addition to the original Giraffes Can't Dance.

• Love Grows Everywhere

  Author: Barry Timms Illustrator: Tisha Lee
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  This charming book celebrates the many ways love grows and how it helps make the world better and brighter.

• Love Hurts

  Author: Various Editor: Malorie Blackman
  Publisher: Doubleday
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  This anthology depicts a very wide range of romantic relationships, and a diverse set of characters, showing love in all its forms.

• Love is

  Author: Diane Adams Illustrator: Claire Keane
  Publisher: Chronicle Books
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  A little girl cares for a duckling just as a parent would care for a baby. But also, as the duckling grows, the little girl comes to understand that part of love is letting things go. A gentle and inspiring joy to read. 

• Love is a Revolution

  Author: Renée Watson
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 12-14
  Reading age: 12+

  When Nala falls for activist Tye, she makes up a story about herself to try to impress him - but will she ever learn to tell the truth and love who she really is?

• Love Lessons

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  Wilson deals with a controversial subject, portraying the teenage agonies of forbidden love in a sensitive manner.

• Love Me Not: The Valentines Book 3

  Author: Holly Smale
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children’s Books
  Interest age: 10-12
  Reading age: 9+

  The Valentines are a glamorous showbiz family who seem to have it all – except they are coming to terms with a family tragedy. Insightful, poignant and witty.

• Love Monster

  Author: Rachel Bright
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 6+

  A funny and charming picture book illustrated with Rachel Bright’s engaging and expressive etchings with a feel good message

• Love on the Main Stage

  Author: S. A. Domingo
  Publisher: Hachette
  Interest age: 12-14
  Reading age: 10+

  Nova doesn’t want to fall in love this summer but a cute guitarist at a festival may change her mind.

• Love that Dog

  Author: Sharon Creech
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's Books
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9+

  Jack has a great sadness in his life, but he is not about to share his feelings with anyone, and he is definitely not going to write poetry about it - he's a boy isn't he?

• Love You Hoo

  Author: Rachel Bright
  Publisher: Orchard
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Big Owl snuggles up for a bedtime cuddle with Little Hoo in this heartwarming story about the unconditional love and support between a carer and child.

• Love Your Body

  Author: Jessica Sanders Illustrator: Carol Rossetti
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 7-13
  Reading age: 7+

  Written specifically for girls and full of lovely, diverse illustrations, this reassuring, inclusive book has a message for all about self-acceptance and body positivity - that building a loving bond with oneself is the most important relationship we will ever have, and, when we can be kind to ourselves, we can also be kind to others who are also learning to…

• Love, Aubrey

  Author: Suzanne LaFleur
  Publisher: Puffin
  

  At the outset we meet 11-year-old Aubrey… living alone. Aubrey is the survivor of a car crash that has killed her sister and father – and now her mother has abandoned her.

• Love, Hate & Other Filters

  Author: Samira Ahmed
  Publisher: Hot Key Books
  Interest age: 12-18
  Reading age: 12+

  This book is a brilliant insight into one experience of growing up Muslim in modern-day America, which translates very easily for readers in the UK. 

• Love, Lies and Lemon Pies

  Author: Katy Cannon
  Publisher: Stripes Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 12+

  This heart-warming teen love story is as sweet and light as the lemon pie of the title. Katy Cannon manages to delicately touch on some difficult issues, without compromising the lightness of the tone.

• Love, Love

  Author: Victoria Chang
  Publisher: Sterling Children's Books
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9+

  Facing bullies at school and feeling lonely at home, Frances embarks on an investigation to figure out why her sister's hair is falling out in this beautiful, poignant verse novel.

• Love...

  Author: Emma Dodd
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Perfect for sharing at bedtime, this beautifully illustrated story about love follows a baby bunny and parent rabbit as they spend the day enjoying each other's company.

• Loves Makes a Family

  Author: Sophie Beer
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  With simple text, and bursting with bright, vibrant illustrations, this simple, inclusive, board book speaks volumes about all aspects of the love inspired by children in the adults who care for them. 

• Lu

  Author: Jason Reynolds Illustrator: Selom Sunu
  Publisher: Knights Of
  Interest age: 11-14
  Reading age: 11+

  Athletics star Lu is generally pretty sure of himself – who he is and what he’s good at. But there’s suddenly a lot of change in his life. The big end-of-season championships are looming; his parents have dropped the bombshell that they’re having another kid; Coach has got him running hurdles but, after an embarrassing fall, he doesn’t seem able to jump them…

• Lucas

  Author: Kevin Brooks
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 13+

  This beautifully written, unusual novel explores the destructive nature of prejudice and mob violence

• Lucinda Belinda Melinda McCool

  Author: Jeanne Willis Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  This cautionary tale works cleverly alongside illustrations showing Lucinda's increasingly outrageous solutions to people's perceived blemishes. Be warned: monsters may still lurk beneath powder and paint.

• Lucky Star

  Author: Cathy Cassidy
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 7+

  Mouse lives in a high-rise block and has been excluded from school. Cat goes to a posh school and seems to have it all. But they both have troubles they need to work through...

• Lucy and Tom At Christmas

  Author: Shirley Hughes
  Publisher: Red Fox
  Interest age: 3-7
  Reading age: 7+

  A classic and heart-warming story about the excitement of Christmas, with many evocative illustrations to talk about.

• Lucy and Tom at the Seaside

  Author: Shirley Hughes
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  Follow a happy family day out by the seaside as Tom and Lucy enjoy making sandcastles, looking in rock pools and going on a donkey ride

• Lucy: Loud and Clear

  Author: Laila Lavan Illustrator: Beatriz Iglesias
  Publisher: Topka
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  Lucy is deaf and Omar is rather flippantly pretending he can't understand her request. Lucy has to be creative if she is to find a solution.

• Lucy’s Winter Rescue

  Author: Anne Booth Illustrator: Sophy Williams
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 5-8
  Reading age: 6+

  When Lucy finds an injured baby otter on the riverbank, she helps take care of him in her gran's Wildlife Rescue Centre. This heart-warming animal tale, with a sprinkling of Christmas magic, has short chapters and black-and-white drawings.

• Ludwig the Space Dog

  Author: Henning Löhlein
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 6+

  Perfect for young explorers, this endearing story features an adventurous dog who decides to visit the universe beyond the flat pages of his home - and 3D goggles will give the reader an even sharper focus on Ludwig's wonderful world.

• Lulu and the Best Cake Ever

  Author: Emma Chichester Clark
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  Poodle Lulu makes up her mind she is going to bake the Best Cake Ever and win the school cake-making competition. But in spite of her great ideas, things don't go to plan.

• Lulu and the Noisy Baby

  Author: Camilla Reid Illustrator: Ailie Busby
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 4+

  Mummy and daddy have some great news for Lulu - she is going to be a big sister! This is an absolutely adorable book about adapting to change. Each page is bursting with detail and endless flaps to lift and investigate.

• Lulu Gets A Cat

  Author: Anna McQuinn Illustrator: Rosalind Beardshaw
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Lulu gets some information about looking after cats and practises with her toys. Mummy agrees that Lulu can look after a cat and they adopt a kitten from the cat shelter. A gentle story about anyone who is thinking of getting a pet. 

• LuLu Loves Stories

  Author: Anna McQuinn Illustrator: Rosalind Beardshaw
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 2+

  This lovely book introduces the magic of sharing stories.

• Lulu Loves the Library

  Author: Anna McQuinn Illustrator: Rosalind Beardshaw
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  Lulu has her library card, her rucksack full of borrowed books, and a big smile on her face, because it's Tuesday – and on Tuesdays Lulu and her mummy go to the library

• Lulu Reads to Zeki

  Author: Anna McQuinn Illustrator: Rosalind Beardshaw
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 4+

  Lulu has a new baby brother - little Zeki, who sleeps a lot and cries a lot too. Luckily, Lulu has a book for every situation. So when baby Zeki needs a new nappy, Lulu reads him her best potty book. When he sobs in the bath, she reads her favourite duck story. And when Zeki is tired, Lulu takes out a soothing sleepy tale.

• Lulu’s First Day

  Author: Anna McQuinn Illustrator: Rosalind Beardshaw
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Lulu is very excited to be starting preschool – but what will the day involve? Lulu’s overall positive experience is a gentle read, and even though there’s a little anxiety when Mum leaves, Lulu has her favourite cuddly toy with her, which gives her comfort. 

• Lulu’s Nana Visits

  Author: Anna McQuinn Illustrator: Rosalind Beardshaw
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 4-5
  Reading age: 6+

  Lulu is so excited that her Nana-Bibi is visiting from Tanzania. During her stay, they go shopping together, make mandazi doughnuts and spend their evenings dancing and listening to stories. 

• Lulu's Sleepover

  Author: Anna McQuinn Illustrator: Rosalind Beardshaw
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  In this sweet instalment of the Lulu series, Lulu has a new adventure with her cousin Hani – her very first sleepover.  

• Luma and the Hiccupping Dragon

  Author: Leah Mohammed Illustrator: Loretta Schauer
  Publisher: Welbeck Flame
  Interest age: 6-8
  

  Luma’s best friend in the world is Timir, a very cute puppy-like creature who sometimes turns into a baby dragon. Yet, when Timir gets the hiccups, purple flame starts bursting out of his nose! What will Luma do?

• Luma and the Pet Dragon

  Author: Leah Mohammed Illustrator: Loretta Schauer
  Publisher: Welbeck Flame
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  This book is the first in a series and contains two short stories about Luma and the talking baby dragon Timir. Their magical adventures are accompanied by amusing black-and-white illustrations, which bring the characters to life. Full of mischief and mayhem.

• Luna Loves Books

  Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Fiona Lumbers
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Luna loves books and dresses as her favourite book character – but then her costume rips! What will she do? A delightful board book showing the joy of imaginative play and of stories.

• Luna Loves Christmas

  Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Fiona Lumbers
  Publisher: Andersen
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Luna and her family are doing something a little different this year for Christmas – they’re volunteering. First, Luna helps Mum deliver food bank packages to neighbours and then she and Dad bake cookies for the big community Christmas dinner. A truly magical book and a real celebration of community and family.   

• Luna Loves Dance

  Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Fiona Lumbers
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  With the gentle support of her family, Luna begins to believe in herself as a real dancer. This delightful tale shows young children that, with perseverance and determination, they can overcome setbacks and follow their dreams. 

• Luna Loves Gardening

  Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Fiona Lumbers
  Publisher: Andersen
  Reading age: 4-8

  Luna is off to the community garden with her dad. There, she learns how to grow plants and discovers each one has its own story to share.

• Luna Loves Library Day

  Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Fiona Lumbers
  Publisher: Anderson Press
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5+

  From the talented poet Joseph Coelho, this charming picture book highlights the wonders of libraries for families and communities. Accompanying the poetic text is gloriously bright and delightful illustrations to bring the magic of the library to life.

• Lunar

  Author: Chris Bradford Illustrator: Charlotte Grange
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 7+

  With a great mix of science fiction and science fact, this nail-biting race-against-time is presented in an accessible format with black and white illustrations. 

• Lunar New Year

  Author: Natasha Yim Illustrator: Jingting Wang
  Publisher: words and pictures
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Join Ling and her family as they celebrate Lunar New Year. This is a charming, beautifully illustrated read that includes details about the traditions of this festival, and suggests fun activities at the back.  

• Lunar New Year Around the World

  Author: Amanda Li Illustrator: Angel Chang
  Publisher: Studio Press
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  A delightful introduction to all the similar and different ways that the Lunar New Year festival is celebrated across the world.

• Lunchtime

  Author: Rebecca Cobb
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 5+

  It's lunchtime for one little girl, but she's just not hungry. Then crocodile, wolf and bear appear - and they are starving!

• Lydia: the wild girl of Pride and Prejudice

  Author: Natasha Farrant
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 11-16
  Reading age: 11+

  A spirited reimagining of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, told from the perspective of Lydia, the youngest Bennet sister. It is great fun to see her thoughts on her older sisters Jane and Lizzy, plus Mr Darcy.

• Lying About Last Summer

  Author: Sue Wallman
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Last summer, Skye had lots of friends, was part of the swim team and lived in a nice big house. But then her sister Luisa died in a tragic accident, and now everything has changed. This moving YA debut is also a gripping psychological thriller.

• Lying Out Loud

  Author: Kody Keplinger
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 8+

  A companion story to The Duff, this is a fun and easy read about the complications of family, friendship and romance. Perfect holiday reading!

• Lyttle Lies: The Pudding Problem

  Author: Joe Berger
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 8+

  Sam Lyttle likes to skirt around the truth - but, lately, it seems like lying to avoid getting into trouble is making things even worse. Laugh-out-loud moments and a very cute cat – what more could you want?

• Pony

  Author: R J Palacio
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  This unusual tale of a boy and his father, set in 1800s America, is both a brilliant adventure and a heartfelt story about love and loss. A book that feels like a classic after just a few pages.