N | BookTrust

Alex Rider Mission 13: Nightshade

Author: Anthony Horowitz
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 11-14
Reading age: 9+

Alex Rider thought he'd finally left his spying days behind him; but when a dangerous band of 'terrorists for hire' emerges onto the world stage, he's dragged into another risky undercover operation. The 13th book in the Alex Rider series, this slick and sophisticated spy drama which will thrill existing fans and convert new ones.

First Names: Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson

Author: Lisa Williamson Illustrator: Tammy Taylor
Publisher: David Fickling Books
Interest age: 11-13
Reading age: 11+

The ’First Names’ series is a collection of fun, highly illustrated biographies that introduce an eclectic range of famous people who’ve lived interesting and inspiring lives.

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson is one of the most successful wrestlers in WWE history and one of the highest paid Hollywood actors. This is the story of how he got there, from a childhood w…

Molly and the Mathematical Mystery

Author: Mike Hills Illustrator: Kerry Hyndman
Publisher: Molly and the Mathematical Mystery
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 6+

Kerry Hyndman and Mike Hills explore symbiotic relationships in nature, from scary tarantulas who are homies with poisonous frogs, to fig wasps that pollinate figs and nobly die in the act.

Nabil Steals a Penguin

Author: Nishani Reed Illustrator: Junissa Bianda
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 4-5
Reading age: 7+

Nabil gets more than he bargains for on a trip to the zoo. After introducing a charming penguin to his mum’s delicious biryani, the waddling creature decides to hitch a ride in Nabil’s rucksack in the hopes that he can try more scrumptious dishes.

Nadine Dreams of Home

Author: Bernard Ashley Illustrator: Ollie Cuthbertson
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 7+

An ultimately uplifting story aimed at new or dyslexic readers.

Nadiya’s Bake Me a Celebration Story

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

With bright illustrations and a smart finish, this is a real treat for any blossoming bakers. The stories themselves are short and sweet with funny dashes of modern life. Like Nadiya herself, this book is full of joy and love for all things family and food.

Naked

Author: Kevin Brooks
Publisher: Puffin Books
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 10+

London, 1976: a summer of chaos, punk, love ... and the boy they called Billy the Kid

Naked Trevor

Author: Rebecca Elliot
Publisher: Templar Publishing
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+

Trevor, like all birds (apparently), is naked. Each morning his family get up and put on their feathery clothes to become sparrows - but Trevor prefers not to wear any clothes.

Name Your Numbers

Author: Smriti Halls Illustrator: Edward Underwood
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 2-3
Reading age: 4+

A brilliantly colourful rhyming board book which introduces first numbers through eleven different animals and includes a surprising (snappy) pop-up!

Nancy Parker’s Diary of Detection

Author: Julia Lee
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+

Newly appointed maidservant Nancy Parker dreams of being a detective, like the heroes in her books. When circumstances in her new house become suspicious, she finds herself in the middle of a mystery, in this fun and dastardly drama.

Nancy Parker's Spooky Speculations

Author: Julia Lee
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Interest age: 8-11
Reading age: 7+

Nancy Parker is back – and the plucky 1920s housemaid has a spooky mystery on her hands. This is a fun and engaging romp that will keep you guessing and clutching at the many clues and revelations along the way.

Nanette’s Baguette

Author: Mo Willems
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 5+

Nanette is excited to go to the bakery on her own to get the baguettes. Unfortunately, she cannot resist taking a bite - and then another... A story - told in giggle-inducing rhyme and quirky illustrations - all about responsibility and being truthful.

Nanny Fox

Author: Georgie Adams Illustrator: Selina Young
Publisher: Orion Children's Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+

‘Arnold Fox loved chickens. Not to eat – just as friends.’ So begins this charming tale of the fox who chooses sandwiches over chicks.

Nano: The Spectacular Science of the Very (Very) Small

Author: Dr Jess Wade Illustrator: Melissa Castrillon
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 7-9
Reading age: 8+

This fascinating introduction to nanotechnology is surprisingly helpful and straightforward. Combined with colourful illustration, this makes for an exciting and hopeful book about a lesser-known area of science for younger readers.

Nara and the Island

Author: Dan Ungureanu
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 5+

Nara lives on a teeny tiny island, and can see another island across the water. What secrets will she discover among the trees? This book touches on the themes of adventure, dreams, friendship and finding your own little space in the world.

Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea!

Author: Ben Clanton
Publisher: Farshore
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6+

Narwhal is a happy-go-lucky sea creature whose amazing horn-like tooth on his forehead earns him the nickname "unicorn of the sea". When he meets a jellyfish, they become firm friends. A quirky chapter book with a mixture of fun facts and nonsense stories.

Nat the Cat’s Sunny Smile

Author: Jez Alborough
Publisher: Doubleday
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+

Nat the Cat wakes up with a big smile on her face! She packs a picnic to share with her friends Billy Goat and Hugo Hare. But they are both feeling grumpy and they don’t want a picnic.

Natboff: One Million Years of Stupidity

Author: Andy Stanton Illustrator: David Tazzyman
Publisher: Farshore
Interest age: 8-11
Reading age: 8+

The story of the inhabitants of the village of Lamonic Bibber, a place Mr Gum (also by Andy Stanton) fans are already very familiar with, from 20,000 years ago until 1 million years in the future. Probably the most ridiculous and funny book you will ever read.

National Trust: Ned the Nature Nut's Nutty Nature Facts and Jokes

Author: Andy Seed Illustrator: Sarah Horne
Publisher: Nosy Crow / The National Trust
Interest age: 7-9
Reading age: 7-9

What has 100 legs but no sense? A sillipede! What do clouds put on after a shower? Thunderwear! Ned the Nature Nut is our guide through this collection of wildlife facts, puns and jokes for young readers.

Nature's Day

Author: Kay Maguire and Danielle Kroll
Publisher: Wide Eyed Editions
Interest age: 5+
Reading age: 8

An introduction to the seasons, and what flowers, wildlife and fruit and veg you can expect to see.

Nature's Fascinating Friendships

Author: Mike Hills Illustrator: Kerry Hyndman
Publisher: Faber & Faber
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 6-8

Kerry Hyndman and Mike Hills explore symbiotic relationships in nature, from scary tarantulas who are homies with poisonous frogs, to fig wasps that pollinate figs and nobly die in the act.

Naughty Kitty

Author: Adam Stower
Publisher: Templar Publishing
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+

Every time Lily leaves the room, Naughty Kitty causes havoc. Or does she...?

Ned and the Great Garden Hamster Race

Author: Kim Hillyard
Publisher: Ladybird
Interest age: 3-6

There’s only one thing on Ned’s mind today and that’s winning. A funny, heartwarming story about a little hamster, a big race and the value of kindness.

Ned and the Joybaloo

Author: Hiawyn Oram Illustrator: Satoshi Kitamura
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+

Ned always looks forward to Friday when he gets the chance to play with the Joybaloo he finds in the airing cupboard. Together they laugh and play and discover the most fantastic adventures.

Ned’s Circus of Marvels

Author: Justin Fisher
Publisher: HarperCollins
Interest age: 8-14
Reading age: 9+

Thirteen-year-old Ned is whisked away from his incredibly ordinary life to save the world by joining a weird and wonderful flying circus. A gripping adventure overflowing with spells, otherworldly creatures, treachery and magic.

Needle

Author: Patrice Lawrence
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 12-13
Reading age: 8-9

How come, if there’s any kind of ‘incident’ at school, at home, at the shopping centre, it’s always the Black kid in care who gets the blame?

Neffy and the Feathered Dinosaurs

Author: Joe Lillington
Publisher: Flying Eye Books
Interest age: 7-9
Reading age: 7-9

Did the T-Rex have feathers? Find out by taking a tour of the dinosaur world with Neffy, a young microraptor. This is a wonderfully informative book, speckled with fascinating facts and beautifully illustrated by Joe Lillington.

Nell and the Cave Bear

Author: Martin Brown
Publisher: Piccadilly
Interest age: 7-9
Reading age: 8+

A simple yet exciting illustrated tale, featuring a runaway cave girl and her pet bear, a tribe of ruthless bear stalkers and a hopeless mammoth hunt.

Nell and the Circus of Dreams

Author: Nell Gifford Illustrator: Briony May Smith
Publisher: Oxford
Interest age: 4-8
Reading age: 6+

Nell finds a lost chick and cares for it, naming it Rosebud. One day, Rosebud is gone and Nell runs into the meadows looking for her – and finds a circus instead! This beautiful, jewel-like book is a real star, all about friendship, magic and circuses.

Nellie Choc-Ice Penguin Explorer

Author: Jeremy Strong Illustrator: Jamie Smith
Publisher: Little Gems
Interest age: 5-8
Reading age: 6+

Nellie Choc-Ice, an adventurous little penguin, finds herself in a spot of bother when a submarine causes her iceberg to break off and drift away from her home and family. This pocket-sized chapter book packs a punch full of energy and wit.

Nelly & Nora: The Windy Way Home

Author: Text based on the script by Emma Hogan Illustrator: Artwork by Emma Hogan/ Geronimo Productions Ltd
Publisher: Walker Entertainment
Interest age: 3-5

After playing on the beach, sisters Nelly and Nora head for home, but the wind is far stronger than they expected. This gentle, everyday adventure, with appealing illustrations, captures all the fun and excitement of a blustery day.

Nelly and the Quest for Captain Peabody

Author: Roland Chambers Illustrator: Ella Okstad
Publisher: Oxford
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 8+

Nelly decides to track down her dad, who has gone missing on an expedition.

Nen and the Lonely Fisherman

Author: Ian Eagleton Illustrator: James Mayhew
Publisher: Owlet Press
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 7+

Merman Nen loves to explore the ocean but his heart feels empty. One night, a lonely fishman called Ernest hears his song and the pair strike up an affectionate relationship. A tender tale of love and acceptance, with lyrical text and atmospheric illustrations.

Neon’s Secret Universe

Author: Sibéal Pounder Illustrator: Sarah Warburton
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8-9

Unless Neon Gallup can learn to command goo (the source of Unicorn magic) before her 10th birthday, she’ll be trapped in the UniVerse forever. A zany, funny and irrepressibly bright fantasy adventure.

Neptune's Tears

Author: Susan Waggoner
Publisher: Piccadilly Press
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 14+

The year is 2218 and Zee is working as an empath, an emotional healer, in a busy London hospital. It is there she meets the mysterious and enigmatic David.

Nervous Nigel

Author: Bethany Christou
Publisher: Templar Books
Interest age: 4-5

This thoughtful story about how we all worry about living up to family expectations is very nicely expressed with Nigel and his family of adorable crocodiles.

Nest

Author: Esther Ehrlich
Publisher: Oneworld Publications
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 11+

This heartbreaking debut novel is beautifully written. The characters are sympathetically drawn and the complex issues of physical and mental illness, grief and guilt are explored with sensitivity. Highly recommended.

Never Ask a Dinosaur to Dinner

Author: Gareth Edwards Illustrator: Guy Parker-Rees
Publisher: Alison Green Books
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 6+

This fabulously daft tale around a child's evening routine is the perfect bedtime book to share.

Never Ending

Author: Martyn Bedford
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 11+

A searingly moving and mesmerising portrayal of a vulnerable teenager trying to cope with the guilt she feels over her brother's death. By the multi award-winning author of Flip.

Never Ever

Author: Jo Empson
Publisher: Child's Play
Interest age: 2-5
Reading age: 5+

Children frequently claim that nothing exciting ever happens, and Empson's second Kate Greenaway award-nominated picture book takes this fact and illustrates a series of fantastic adventures a child might imagine (or ignore!)

Never Evers

Author: Tom Ellen and Lucy Ivison
Publisher: Chicken House
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+

This is a must read for anyone who has ever been on a school trip, had a crush on a pop star, or embarrassed themselves in front of their friends. Laugh-out-loud funny, with wry observations about friendship and how to fit in.

Never Fall Down

Author: Patricia McCormick
Publisher: Doubleday
Interest age: 15+
Reading age: 14+

Growing up in Cambodia, Arn's life is one of carefree adventure - until the Khumer Rouge come to power and Arn's world is turned upside down.

Never Show a T-Rex a Book

Author: Rashmi Sirdeshpande Illustrator: Diane Ewen
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 4-5

A young girl wonders what would happen if she showed her book to a real dinosaur. This entertaining tale celebrates the joy of reading and demonstrates how books can fuel the imagination.

Never Take a Bear to School

Author: Mark Sperring Illustrator: Britta Teckentrup
Publisher: Orchard Books
Interest age: 4-6
Reading age: 5+

This stylish book - all about why it's very wise not to take your bear to school, no matter how afraid you are - will cheer even the most nervous of new pupils.

Never Tickle a Tiger

Author: Pamela Butchart Illustrator: Marc Boutavant
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 5+

For fidgety children everywhere, especially those who don't heed good advice, this cautionary tale shows what the unconsidered consequences can be when we can't understand just why we're told never to do something.

Never Trust a Gemini

Author: Freja Nicole Woolf
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 12+

This charming, funny romantic comedy about a girl who likes girls is packed with awkward moments, sticky situations and complex characters.

Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow

Author: Jessica Townsend
Publisher: Orion Children's Books
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+

Born on Eventide, Morrigan Crow is a 'cursed child', blamed for every misfortune and destined to die on her eleventh birthday. But just before midnight strikes, the mysterious Jupiter North appears, offering Morrigan another choice: journey with him to Nevermore. In this magical world, she moves into Jupiter's awesome, ever-changing hotel and enters the tria…

Nevermore

Author: Linda Newbery
Publisher: Orion Children's Books
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 7+

Tizzie's mum lands a job as cook at a big house, and Tizzie encounters a household with a hidden past who eagerly await the return of the absent owner and his daughter Greta.

Nevertell

Author: Katharine Orton
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 10+

After a daring escape, Lina and her best friend Bogdan find themselves on a quest to reach Moscow and find Lina’s grandmother. Many dangers lie ahead: including an angry ice witch and her spirit wolves. A magical, snowy adventure perfect for winter nights.

New and Collected Poems for Children

Author: Carol Ann Duffy Illustrator: Alice Stevenson
Publisher: Faber
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy, brings together the best of her poems for children.

New Arrivals at Willow Farm

Author: Helen Peters Illustrator: Isobel Lundie
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 7+

This delightful, illustrated chapter book contains two short stories about animals on Willow Farm: Snowy the sheepdog wants to play with the sheep, rather than herd them, and Cowslip the calf is desperate to find a friend. Ideal for reluctant and dyslexic readers.

New Baby

Author: Sarah Shaffi & Isabel Otter Illustrator: Lucy Farfort
Publisher: Little Tiger

Bilal and Sofia, who are perhaps around three or four, are excited that Mum – Ammi – is going to have a new baby. Bilal plans to share all his favourite animals with the new baby, and Sofia says she is going to teach the baby how to make rockets.

New In Town

Author: Marta Altes
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 2-5

A huge white dog arrives in a new town looking for a home - but nobody seems to see him or understand him! That is, until he meets a lost little girl who can't find her way home...

Newes From The Dead

Author: Mary Hooper
Publisher: Definitions
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 11+

This intriguing novel is based on the case of maidservant, Anne Green, 'hanged for infanticide at Oxford Assizes in 1650. Restored to the world and died again in 1665'.

Newspaper Boy and Origami Girl

Author: Michael Foreman
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 5+
Reading age: 7+

When bullies steal newspaper-boy Joey's money, he is amazed to see his papers leap from his bag in the form of Origami Girl, who chases the thieves away.

Next to Alice

Author: Anne Fine Illustrator: Gareth Conway
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 7+

Ben doesn’t want to sit next to Alice in class – she’s scary. But her forthright opinions might just be helpful to him… An accessible, dyslexia-friendly story told with humour and a light touch.

Nibbles Christmas

Author: Emma Yarlett
Publisher: Little Tiger
Interest age: 0-2

Emma Yarlett's lovable book-munching monster strikes again, this time in a Christmas-themed board book that counts down the days until Christmas. Young children, who act on impulse just like Nibbles, will root for him from the outset and delight in the joy and silliness.

Nibbles Colours

Author: Emma Yarlett
Publisher: Little Tiger
Interest age: 0-2

Nibbles, the book-eating monster, is HUNGRY - and this book has some delicious colours to eat! A bright little gem that makes a lovely addition to the Nibbles series.

Nibbles Numbers

Author: Emma Yarlett
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
Interest age: 1-5

Nibbles, the book-eating monster, is munching his way through all the numbers in this first counting book which will entertain adults and children alike. Fun and interactive.

Nibbles: The Book Monster

Author: Emma Yarlett
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
Interest age: 4-6

This is a story about a little monster called… Nibbles. And with that, he nibbles his way right out of the book! This really exciting reading experience is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Nibbles: The Monster Hunt

Author: Emma Yarlett
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
Interest age: 3-6

A boy sits contentedly reading books when Nibbles the monster whizzes in and causes havoc by munching his way through the boy’s beloved books. With flaps to open, peep-holes to peek through and questions to answer, this is fun and interactive.

Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy

Author: Angie Thomas
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 12-14
Reading age: 9+

Can Nic and her friends find the mysterious Msaidizi in time to save her dad? A cracking action-packed magical adventure – highly recommended.

Nice Work for the Cat and the King

Author: Nick Sharratt
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 6-9
Reading age: 6+

The second book from Nick Sharratt about the long-suffering, loyal cat and the well-meaning but somewhat ineffectual King: perfect for younger ones that want something longer than a picture book but still love silly humour and a great, well-written concept.

Nicholas and the Wild Ones

Author: Niki Daly
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 6+

Starting school is never easy, especially if the Wild Ones are in your class! Can Nicholas find a way to cope? Find out in this positive, humorous story.

Night Monkey Day Monkey

Author: Julia Donaldson Illustrator: Lucy Richards
Publisher: Farshore
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+

Night Monkey and Day Monkey both live in the same jungle but their lives are worlds apart until one day Night Monkey wakes up in the day and Day Monkey wakes in the night.

Night of the Moon: A Muslim Holiday Story

Author: Hena Khan Illustrator: Julie Paschkis
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Interest age: 6-10
Reading age: 7+

This tale about the Muslim holy month of Ramadan is told through the eyes of Yasmeen, a seven-year-old Pakistani-American girl. Beautiful, rich illustrations enhance this joyful and informative picture book. Ideal for either home or in schools.

Night Sky Dragons

Author: Mal Peet and Elspeth Graham Illustrator: Patrick Benson
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 8+

A touching story set in medieval Mongolia, about a lonely young boy who desperately wants the approval of his remote father.

Night Speakers

Author: Ali Sparkes
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 10-14
Reading age: 10+

An atmospheric supernatural thriller, in which three unlikely allies must solve an eerie mystery to put a stop to an escalating wave of killing that threatens their town.

Nightlights

Author: Lorena Alvarez
Publisher: Nobrow
Interest age: 8+
Reading age: 10+

A remarkable, haunting and beautiful graphic novel for younger readers, Nightlights is a magical fable about creativity and believing in yourself. With a 'Studio Ghibli' feel and some sumptuous artwork, this is a wonderful read and a visual treat.

Nightmares!

Author: Jason Segel and Kirsten Miller Illustrator: Karl Kwasny
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 10-14
Reading age: 10+

A clever mix of fantasy, horror and adventure keeps the pages turning as Charlie battles to save the world, and his soul.

Nighttime Symphony

Author: Timabaland featuring Christopher Myers Illustrator: Kaa Illustration
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 5-12
Reading age: 5+

In this beautiful picture book, as nighttime and bedtime arrives a storm is howling across the city. Part poem, part song and part lullaby, as the young boy in the book settles down to sleep his father creates a sense of music and rhythm out of the sounds of the storm. The raindrops tap a steady beat on the window, the wind sings, the thunder is a drummer in…

Nikhil and Jay: Off to India

Author: Chitra Soundar Illustrator: Soofiya
Publisher: Otter-Barry
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 7+

This delightful first chapter book is illustrated in black and white on every page and is a great way for newly independent readers to experience Christmas in India in the company of two excited young boys.

Nimesh the Adventurer

Author: Ranjit Singh Illustrator: Mehrdokht Amini
Publisher: Lantana Publishing
Interest age: 4-7
Reading age: 5+

This captivating picture book will delight young children, encouraging them to invent their own imaginative adventures. The striking collage illustrations contain vibrancy and depth, drawing the reader into Nimesh’s exciting fantasy world.

Nina and the Kung-Fu Adventure

Author: Madhvi Ramani Illustrator: Erica-Jane Waters
Publisher: Tamarind Books
Interest age: 8+
Reading age: 8+

A pacey story with appealing characters, a spell-binding plot and a satisfying conclusion that emphasises the power of friendship, loyalty, bravery and Chinese qi, or inner power.

Nina and the Magical Carnival

Author: Madhvi Ramani Illustrator: Erica-Jane Waters
Publisher: Tamarind Books
Interest age: 8+
Reading age: 8+

An exciting adventure set in Brazil at carnival time that shows the amazing power of imagination, kindness and self-belief. Will Nina find the inspiration for her school talent show and help her aunt solve a top-secret mystery?

Nina and the Travelling Spice Shed

Author: Madhvi Ramani
Publisher: Tamarind Books
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 8+

When Nina goes in search of some turmeric, in eccentric Aunt Nishi’s spice shed, she doesn’t expect the shed to take off for India!

Nina Peanut is Amazing

Author: Sarah Bowie
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+

Nina Peanut is a hilarious, aspiring content creator. When one of her videos goes viral, she must learn how to cope with the challenges of fame, friendship and self-confidence.

Nina: A Story of Nina Simone

Author: Traci N. Todd Illustrator: Christian Robinson
Publisher: Scribble
Interest age: 6-11
Reading age: 6+

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil Rights movement, this formidable picture book explores the life of acclaimed Black singer and musician, Nina Simone. A thought-provoking, multi-layered tale.

Nini at Carnival

Author: Errol Lloyd
Publisher: Red Fox / Random House Children’s Books
Interest age: 4-7
Reading age: 5+

Nini needs a costume to join in the Carnival parade and comes up with a brilliant solution. Nini at Carnival was first published in 1978, and there’s a reason it is so popular. The energy seems to march right off the page into your imagination.

Ninja Kid

Author: Anh Do Illustrator: Jeremy Ley
Publisher: Scholastic Children’s Books
Interest age: 6-11
Reading age: 7+

Nelson Kane wakes up on his tenth birthday to discover that he has developed ninja powers. He puts his newfound skills to the test when a cluster of gigantic spiders attack the town. A light-hearted chapter book that's fast paced and funny.

Ninja: Death Touch

Author: Chris Bradford and Sonia Leong
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 8+

Older and wiser, Taka is faced with another challenge. Lord Oda has sworn to destroy all ninja and is marching towards Taka's village with a huge army of samurai. Taka will need to use all of his skills if he wants to protect his home, his family and his honor.

Ninja: First Mission

Author: Chris Bradford
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 8+

A dyslexia- friendly book with plenty of appeal for action-loving readers

Nisha's War

Author: Dan Smith
Publisher: Chicken House
Interest age: 10-13
Reading age: 9+

During World War II, an Anglo-Indian refugee is offered a deal by a ghostly child: her mother’s life in exchange for three truths.

Nits!

Author: Stephanie Blake Translator: Linda Burgess
Publisher: Gecko Press
Interest age: 3-5

A funny, light-hearted picture book about a common childhood issue that will prompt plenty of chuckles and delight young fans of Simon, the little rabbit with lots of personality.

No Baby No

Author: Grace Nichols Illustrator: Eleanor Taylor
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 0+
Reading age: 4+

Amusing illustrations of a mischievous baby's exploits accompany the rhyming text, making this a book small children will want to read and recite again and again.

No Ballet Shoes in Syria

Author: Catherine Bruton
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

Aya is a Syrian asylum seeker, looking after her mother and baby brother in the cold, unfamiliar city of Manchester – but she is also a talented ballet dancer. Children who love stories of performance and friendship will enjoy this book.

No Bed without Ted

Author: Nicola Smee
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 6 months+
Reading age: 5+

Simple rhyming text and bright, colourful, endearing images of a little girl with her pets and toys make this familiar domestic tale of a missing ted into an appealing bedtime tale.

No Buddy Like A Book

Author: Allan Wolf Illustrator: Brianne Farley
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6+

All aboard the Book Express! Young people are encouraged to develop a love of reading in this inspirational picture book, which celebrates books as sources of knowledge, entertainment and adventure. All you need is a sprinkle of imagination...

No Fixed Address

Author: Susin Nielsen
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 11-15
Reading age: 11+

If Felix can win Canada’s biggest junior quiz show, he and his mum can stop living in a car park. Or is that just wishful thinking? Felix’s story is hard to put down and the gritty issue of homelessness is tackled with sensitivity and gentle humour.

No Kiss For Mother

Author: Tomi Ungerer
Publisher: Phaidon Press
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 8+

Piper Paw is a tough tom cat, but even he can't avoid a kiss from his doting mother.

No More Babies

Author: Madeleine Cook Illustrator: Erika Meza
Publisher: Oxford
Interest age: 3-5

This funny, reassuring book deals with the potential worries around waiting for a new baby in the family and reminds children of the special relationship between siblings.

No More Kisses for Bernard!

Author: Niki Daly
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Interest age: 3+

Lively and evocative illustrations reinforce the humour in this witty portrayal of a dilemma faced by many youngsters when relatives come to visit

No More Peas

Author: Madeleine Cook Illustrator: Erika Meza
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Interest age: 4-5

Oliver only wants to eat chips and pizza for dinner. But Daddy keeps cooking vegetables – yuk! A story about growing vegetables, eating healthily and being brave enough to try new things.

No Pets Allowed!

Author: Chitra Soundar Illustrator: Fay Austin
Publisher: Bloomsbury Education
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6+

When Keva’s grandpa is in hospital, she knows that a visit from Atlas, his giant tortoise, will cheer him up. But pets aren’t allowed… A delightful story about kindness – and some unusual pets!

Mae'r stori annwyl hon yn canolbwyntio ar garedigrwydd a gofalu – ac mae'n cynnwys ffeithiau am grwbanod mawr Asia a malwod tir mawr Affrica! Gyda phenodau byr a lla…

No Place for Monsters

Author: Kory Merritt
Publisher: Chicken House
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

Levi is frantic when his little sister Twila goes missing, but their mum has lost all memory of ever having a younger daughter. Only Levi and his classmate Kat seem immune to the collective amnesia that has gripped the town. Determined to find Twila and the other missing children, the pair team up to investigate.

No Probllama!

Author: Rosie Greening Illustrator: Kali Stileman
Publisher: Make Believe Ideas
Interest age: 0-3

Llamas may look a little goofy, but in this touch-and-feel book, they are fearless adventurers! This modern, quirky storybook will keep families reading and laughing together with its rhyme, regular beat, fabulous illustrations and outrageous humour.

No Such Thing as Dragons

Author: Philip Reeve
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

A poetic, fast-moving, medieval adventure story with its roots firmly in traditional folk tale and legend.

No Turning Back

Author: Beverley Naidoo
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 12-18
Reading age: 10+

Sipho runs away looking for freedom, but finds that the streets of Johannesburg are hard to escape. This powerful, moving book conveys complex shades of good and evil. The characters, with all their flaws, ring true, and will excite passionate discussion.

No Use Crying

Author: Zannah Kearns
Publisher: Frances Lincoln
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 9+

Moving, genuine and warm in plot and tone, every character in this debut novel is well-rounded and real

No!

Author: Marta Altes
Publisher: Child's Play
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+

Meet No. No is the best-behaved, most obliging, helpful and useful dog EVER! He helps his family get to places faster, he tastes their food, hunts for treasure in their garden, helps with the laundry. He never stops. There is just one thing he doesn’t understand: why did they give him a collar saying ‘Spike’?

In fact, No’s words …

No! said Rabbit

Author: Marjoke Henrichs
Publisher: Scallywag Press
Interest age: 2-4

No matter whether it's time for breakfast, time to get dressed, or a lovely day to go and play - Rabbit's answer is NO! Ideal for toddlers and preschoolers, as well as parents of little ones who have just discovered “no” and like to use it at every opportunity.

No. 1 Car Spotter

Author: Atinuke .
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 7+

No. 1 comes to the rescue each and every time his family or the village are in trouble!

Noah Barleywater Runs Away

Author: John Boyne
Publisher: David Fickling Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

John Boyne's second children's novel is a modern but ageless fairytale about a boy who runs away from home deep into a forest.

Noah’s Seal

Author: Layn Marlow
Publisher: Oxford

Layn Marlow’s utterly delightful story about a boy’s love for seals and his faith in finding them is touching and sensitively told, illustrated in a mix of soft watercolours and beautifully details. There’s something here about “if you build it, they will come” in Noah’s summoning of the seals by building a sand one and imbuing it with love: a message about …

Noah's Gold

Author: Frank Cottrell-Boyce Illustrator: Steven Lenton
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

Eleven-year-old Noah finds himself marooned on a deserted island that turns out to hold all kind of treasure. A book with a real sense of the absurd and a gentle message about the value we can find in things and people when we put our phones and laptops away.

Noble Conflict

Author: Malorie Blackman
Publisher: Doubleday
Interest age: 14+
Reading age: 13+

Kaspar is proud to be one of the Guardians - an elite peacekeeping force who protect the Alliance against the rebel Insurgency. Then he encounters young rebel Rhea.

Nobody Saw No One

Author: Steve Tasane
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 12-17
Reading age: 10+

This witty, gritty and disturbing dual narrative story of abuse and exploitation starts as a modernised retelling of Oliver Twist but evolves into a cutting edge contemporary exploration of a care system in crisis and the determination of victims to survive.

No-Bot

Author: Sue Hendra
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+

Bernard the Robot is playing in the park. As he walks home, realises his bottom has disappeared! Where could it have gone?

No-Bot the Robot's New Bottom

Author: Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 2-5

Hendra and Linnet are at the top of their game when it comes to funny books for 2-4 year olds, and this hilarious homage to farts, bottom burps and bums is a perfect read for little ones looking for lots of laughs as well as a story about being kind to our friends.

Noggin

Author: John Corey Whaley
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 9+

Sixteen-year-old Travis died from leukaemia five years ago. But he's alive again (and still sixteen) as the result of pioneering transplant surgery to attach his cryogenically saved head to another body.

Noisy Bottoms

Author: Sam Taplin Illustrator: Mark Chambers
Publisher: Usborne Publishing
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+

In this hilarious noisy book, we follow Little Bear as he goes through the forest and discovers that all the animals have rather noisy bottoms

Noisy Neighbours

Author: Ruth Green
Publisher: Tate
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 6+

Sid the Snail is looking for somewhere to have a nap but all the other animals are being too noisy until Sid decides to have a party and tire everyone out!

Noni the Pony Counts to a Million

Author: Alison Lester
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Interest age: 0-4

This cute counting picture book takes little ones up to a million as Noni the pony and her friends count what they see during a day of fun.

Noo-Noos

Author: Carol Thompson
Publisher: Child's Play
Interest age: 1+
Reading age: 5+

Every young child has a noo-noo. It’s that scruffy piece of well-loved fabric, fur, plastic or rubber, that goes everywhere with you...

Nora and the Map of Mayhem

Author: Joseph Elliott Illustrator: Nici Gregory
Publisher: Piccadilly Press
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+

Can Nora and her great grandchildren find the treasure before her dastardly foe? A hoot of an adventure starring an energetic old lady, a determined toddler and a wonky goose. Great fun.

Norah’s Ark

Author: Victoria Williamson
Publisher: Neem Tree Press
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

Norah and Adam are from very different backgrounds but, united by their loneliness and love of animals, they form an unexpected friendship. This powerful, uplifting novel sensitively highlights some tough issues, including homelessness, addiction, illness and bullying.

Norman the Norman from Normandy

Author: Philip Ardagh Illustrator: Tom Morgan-Jones
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 8+

Philip Ardagh’s extra-silly sense of humour is on full display in this seriously funny book about Norman the Norman from Normandy, who ends up a hero but has no idea why!

Norman’s New Shell

Author: Sue Hendra Illustrator: Paul Linnet
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

In this fun, snail-shaped board book, Norman the slug has aspirations to become a snail – but he needs a shell!

Norris, the Bear who Shared

Author: Catherine Rayner
Publisher: Orchard Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 7+

Norris the bear is patient, and prepared to wait for life's pleasures, such as the plorringe hanging from the tree, not quite ripe.

Norse Myths: Tales of Odin, Thor and Loki

Author: Kevin Crossley-Holland Illustrator: Jeffrey Alan Love
Publisher: Walker Studio
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 8-12

If your children loved the recent Marvel movies featuring Thor but haven’t heard the original Norse legends before, this fantastic compendium of new retellings would be an excellent place to start.

North of Nowhere

Author: Liz Kessler
Publisher: Orion Children's Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

Visiting her grandmother, Mia discovers many secrets hidden in the sleepy seaside village of Porthaven.

North: The Greatest Animal Journey on Earth

Author: Nick Dowson Illustrator: Patrick Benson
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 3+

This exquisite picture book invites readers to accompany a host of animals from walruses to whales, as they migrate to the Arctic for the summer months

Northern Lights

Author: Philip Pullman
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 9-14
Reading age: 10+

This extraordinary fantasy is the first book in Philip Pullman's multi-award-winning His Dark Materials trilogy

Northern Lights

Author: Philip Pullman Illustrator: Chris Wormell
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 9-14
Reading age: 10+

Chris Wormell brings Philip Pullman's magnificent adventure to life in this beautiful new illustrated edition - a wonderful addition to anyone's bookshelf.

Northern Soul

Author: Phil Earle
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+

Marv is desperate to make an impression on the girl of his dreams but with no idea quite how to do it he takes advice from a long-dead soul singer. Cue hilarious consequences and some truly awful song lyrics.

Norton and Alpha

Author: Kristyna Litten
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Interest age: 4-6
Reading age: 6+

This charming tale about appreciating the wonder of nature is accompanied by gorgeous atmospheric illustrations, which bring the endearing characters to life.

Not As We Know It

Author: Tom Avery
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9

Younger middle-grade readers desperate to get their teeth into something a little more serious will enjoy this sensitive story.

Not Bad for a Bad Lad

Author: Michael Morpurgo Illustrator: Michael Foreman
Publisher: Templar
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

A grandfather explaining to his grandson how his difficult post-war childhood had led him into petty crime.

Not for Parents: How to be a Dinosaur Hunter

Author: Scott Forbes Illustrator: James Gulliver Hancock
Publisher: Lonely Planet Publications
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 10+

Everything young explorers need to know about how to become a famous dinosaur hunter.

Not for Parents: How to be a World Explorer

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

How do you cope with extreme cold? How do you find water in the wild? How can you escape from quicksand? How do you navigate by the stars? How do you fight a bear?

Not If I Can Help It

Author: Carolyn Mackler
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 8-12

There are certain things you cannot tell anyone, even your closest friends. At least that is the way 11-year-old Willa feels about the fact that she lives with a sensory processing disorder. An accessible, well-paced and engaging coming-of-age story with a casually inclusive cast and a perfectly loveable and perfectly flawed young protagonist.

Not If I See You First

Author: Eric Lindstrom
Publisher: Harper Collins
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+

Parker Grant doesn't need perfect vision to see right through you. That's why she created the Rules: don't treat her any differently just because she's blind, and never take advantage.

Not In That Dress, Princess!

Author: Wendy Meddour Illustrator: Cindy Wume
Publisher: Otter-Barry
Interest age: 4-5

Princess Bess loves playing football and climbing trees with her brothers, but she's always told 'Not in that dress!' Frustrated at this inequality, she decides to show everyone all the amazing things you CAN do whilst wearing a dress.

NOT just another book about: Things That Moove

Author: n/a Illustrator: Jake McDonald
Publisher: Noodle Juice
Interest age: 4-5

This funny, informative picture book for young children, presented by a witty cast of cows, explores different modes of transport. Bursting with bold, humorous illustrations, the book also contains a multitude of cow-related jokes to keep readers entertained.

Not Now, Bernard

Author: David McKee
Publisher: Andersen
Interest age: 4-5

The classic tale of Bernard, whose distracted parents fail to notice that their son has been eaten and replaced by a monster.

Not Now, Noor!

Author: Farhana Islam Illustrator: Nabila Adani
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 4-5

All the women in Noor’s family wear headscarves and she’s curious to find out why. Is a hijab worn to hide big ears or keep snacks safe?

Not That Pet!

Author: Smriti Halls Illustrator: Rosalind Beardshaw
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 3-5

An enjoyable rhyming book with wholesome illustrations, Not That Pet! is perfect for young families considering bring an animal into their lives, and a lovely story about an everyday family and their dynamics.

Not the End of the World

Author: Geraldine McCaughrean
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 11+

Timna, 14-year-old daughter of Noah, tells what really happened to her family during the endless days and nights in the Ark, while the world all around them turned to water.

Notebooks of a Middle-School Princess

Author: Meg Cabot
Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
Interest age: 9-12
Reading age: 8

This is the first story in a new Princess Diaries spin off series for younger readers, where Olivia records events in her notebook.

Noteworthy

Author: Riley Redgate
Publisher: Amulet
Interest age: 14-18
Reading age: 10+

Presenting herself as Julian, Jordan successfully auditions for an all-male a capella group and is forced to consider what it means to be female, male and, ultimately, herself. A refreshingly complex and entertaining story of self-discovery.

Nothing Ever Happens Here

Author: Sarah Hagger-Holt
Publisher: Usborne
Interest age: 10-14
Reading age: 9+

Nothing ever happens in Littlehaven... at least, that is, until Izzy's Dad comes out as trans. A gentle, timely and warm story about identity, friendship and standing up for what's right.

Nothing Like a Puffin

Author: Sue Soltis Illustrator: Bob Kolar
Publisher: Walker
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+

Bright blocks of colour are used to good effect in this lively picture book.

Nothing Rhymes with Orange

Author: Adam Rex
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Interest age: 5-8
Reading age: 5+

Adam Rex takes the title’s conventional wisdom and lets it grow into a raucous romp with a surprisingly heartfelt message. By painting hands, feet and faces on photos of fruit, Rex creates a lovable cast of characters, but none as lovable as the titular Orange.

While all the other fruit dance and rhyme their names, Orange feels left out. After all, nothing r…

Nothing!

Author: Yasmeen Ismail
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 4-5

Lila has a fabulous imaginary world: if she’s not wrestling an octopus or soaring over a jungle, she’s racing in a winged chariot. Visiting grandpa might not seem as fascinating, but he’s just as keen to join her fantasy world.

Notso Hotso

Author: Ann Fine Illustrator: Tony Ross
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 6-10
Reading age: 7+

Anthony, a very vain dog, is horrified when his fur starts to fall out in clumps. On a humiliating trip to the vet, his body is shaved, leaving only the fur on his head and tip of his tail so that he resembles a lion.

Noughts and Crosses

Author: Malorie Blackman
Publisher: Penguin
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+

Callum is a Nought but his best friend Sephy is a Cross - the daughter of one of the most influential politicians in the country.

Now

Author: Morris Gleitzman
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+

A beautifully written book, full of hope, love and sorrow; it provides an apt ending to the unforgettable trilogy that also includes Once and Then.

Now is the Time for Running

Author: Michael Williams
Publisher: Tamarind Books
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 10+

Deo's life is destroyed when government forces kill his family. Together with his brother Innocent, he flees his village in search of his father, encountering hardship and hostility along the way.

Now or Never: A Dunkirk Story

Author: Bali Rai
Publisher: Scholastic Children’s Books
Interest age: 10-13
Reading age: 9+

Narrated by Private Fazal Khan, a young Muslim soldier in Company 32 of the Royal Indian Army Service Corps, this is a moving and insightful account of a key event in the Second World War. Fifteen-year-old Fazal runs away from his family in northern India and lies about his age to join up and serve the British Empire, just as his grandfather did during World…

The book succeeds in conveying the history of the politician Aneurin Bevan from his hard childhood in the valleys of south Wales, to the pinnacle of his career – establishing the Na…

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