O | BookTrust

Bug Hotel / Óstán na bhFeithidí

Author: Áine Ní Ghlinn Illustrator: Mr Ando
Publisher: An tSnáthaid Mhór
Interest age: 5+
Reading age: 5-6

Get to know the bugs of Ireland in an uplifting way.

Cuir aithne ar fheithidí na hÉireann ar bhealach spreagúil.

Obsessive About Octopuses

Author: Owen Davey
Publisher: Flying Eye Books
Interest age: 6-11
Reading age: 8+

Owen Davey’s sixth book in this brilliant nonfiction series is as insightful, fascinating and beautifully designed as the rest, with a perfect amount of stunning illustrations and well-selected information about octopuses for mid and upper primary school children.

Ocean Animals

Author:
Publisher: National Geographic Kids
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 9+

Get close-up with ocean animals - from sharks and manatees to turtles and blobfish. This book, full of amazing underwater photography, is perfect for any animal lover or aspiring oceanographer.

Oceanarium

Author: Loveday Trinick Illustrator: Teagan White
Publisher: Big Picture Press
Interest age: 8-11
Reading age: 8+

With remarkable illustration that will make anyone want to dive in and learn more about the wondrous oceanic realms, this is a brilliant addition to the now extensive “Welcome to the Museum” series, which has featured the planets, plants, history and more.

October, October

Author: Katya Balen
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

October has a happy life living with her dad in the forest - but when Dad gets injured in an accident, she's forced to go and live with her estranged mum in the city, where nothing is natural and everything feels new and frightening. Can October let her mum into her heart?

Octopants

Author: Suzy Senior Illustrator: Claire Powell
Publisher: Little Tiger
Interest age: 1-3

A very sweet little octopus has a problem: they don’t have any underpants! And poor little octopus has too many legs to fit into any conventional underwear. A delightful story about finding your place with everyone else, even when you feel different and left out.

Octopus Shocktopus!

Author: Peter Bently Illustrator: Steven Lenton
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 3-5

One day, a huge pink octopus appears on the roof of a young family’s house, and despite the fire brigade’s best efforts, it seems that it’s there to stay! Peter Bently’s wonderfully crafted rhyming story is brilliant to read aloud.

Octopus Socktopus

Author: Nick Sharratt
Publisher: Alison Green books
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+

Brightly coloured octopuses appear throughout the pages of this fun pop-up book from Nick Sharratt.

Odd and the Frost Giants

Author: Neil Gaiman Illustrator: Chris Riddell
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 7-12
Reading age: 7+

Odd, a crippled orphan in a Viking village, isn't of much interest to his clan. When he leaves for adventure, he finds three talking animals that are actually gods - and they need his help. This is a wonderfully wintry, magical and mythical story.

Odd Dog Out

Author: Rob Biddulph
Publisher: HarperCollins
Interest age: 3-5

All the dogs at the beginning of this book look and act the same, but one is behaving differently. When they fly high, this dog flies low. When they say kick, this dog says throw!

Of Lions and Unicorns

Author: Sir Michael Morpurgo
Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 10+

A variety of short stories and extracts from Michael Morpurgo, 'The Nation’s Favourite Storyteller’ are collected in this lovely gift edition.

Off the Page

Author: Jodi Picoult and Samantha van Leer
Publisher: Random House
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 8+

Although a companion to bestseller Between the Lines, this story completely serves as a stand-alone book.

Off to Market

Author: Elizabeth Dale Illustrator: Erika Pal
Publisher: Frances Lincoln
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 7+

Everyone wants to catch the bus to the market, but eventually it’s so full that it can’t make it up the hill. Who will give up their place to ensure the others can get there?

Off to the Beach!

Author: Child's Play Illustrator: Cocoretto
Publisher: Child's Play International
Interest age: 0-4

Child's Play continue to build on their range of truly inclusive and accessible books with this sensory gem. Off to the Beach! takes us on a tactile trip to the seaside.

Off to the Park!

Author: Stephen Cheetham
Publisher: Child's Play
Interest age: 1+
Reading age: 4+

We're off to the park - what will we find? Which way shall we go? The swings or the slide? Take a look inside!

Officer Clawsome: Lobster Cop

Author: Brian ‘Smitty’ Smith Illustrator: Chris Giarrusso
Publisher: Farshore
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 7+

Can Officer Clawsome and his sidekick Stariana the starfish catch the criminal stealing their kelpcakes? Action-packed, with plenty of humour, this fast-paced graphic novel is lots of fun.

Oh Dear, Geoffrey!

Author: Gemma O'Neilll
Publisher: Templar Publishing
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 6+

Geoffrey the giraffe's height makes him clumsy - it's hard for him to make friends with the creatures on the ground.

Oh Maya Gods

Author: Maz Evans
Publisher: Chicken House
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+

Super-sporty Vesper and super-bright Aster are cousins and now reluctant partners in stopping Kizin, the Maya god of death, from killing everyone in the world. A brilliant adventure full of action and humour… and chocolate!

Oh My Gods

Author: Alexandra Sheppard
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 10-14
Reading age: 10+

Life as a teenager can be challenging enough without the added stress of having to keep secret the fact that half your family are ancient Greek gods! A witty book that also deals with common teen challenges and celebrates diversity and individuality.

Oh No, George!

Author: Chris Haughton
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 2-4

George is a dog with a big personality and he LOVES cake, rubbish bins and chasing Cat.

Oh! If Only...

Author: Michael Foreman
Publisher: Anderson Press
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 7+

An action-packed, humorous story with bright and lively illustrations

Oh, The Places You’ll Go!

Author: Dr Seuss
Publisher: HarperCollins
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 6+

This classic book, loved by generations of families, talks to the young (or adult!) reader about what life is, what they can expect as they get older and how to move through the experience of living with joy, thankfulness, ambition and kindness.

Oi Cat!

Author: Kes Gray Illustrator: Jim Field
Publisher: Hachette Children's Group
Interest age: 4-7
Reading age: 5+

A third title is added to the unstoppable “Oi Frog” sequence. It’s a brilliant premise that can run and run, and with such appealing illustrations from Jim Field and such clever rhymes from Kes Gray, here’s hoping it does. Colourful, witty and silly.

Oi Dog!

Author: Kes Gray Illustrator: Jim Field
Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 5+

Frog has had enough of being sat on. This time, dogs will not sit on frogs - they will sit on logs, which is where they belong. Cats will sit on gnats, bears will sit on stairs and whales will sit on nails. This a side-splitting book, which is great for sharing.

Oi Duck-Billed Platypus

Author: Kes Gray Illustrator: Jim Field
Publisher: Hodder
Interest age: 4-6
Reading age: 5+

The latest book in the Oi Frog! series sees the return of our favourite characters who are cheeky, adorable and ever so clever. More than a fantastically funny story, it’s a book that will encourage talk, play, rhyme and laughter for everyone in the family.

Oi Frog!

Author: Kes Gray Illustrator: Jim Field
Publisher: Hodder
Interest age: 3-6

Bright, bold, expressive illustrations add to the fun in this hilarious picture book with a knockout ending.

Oi! Get Off Our Train

Author: John Burningham
Publisher: Red Fox
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+

As a small boy drifts off to sleep he dreams that he is taking a journey around the world in his model train.

Oksa Pollock: The Last Hope

Author: Anne Plichota and Cendrine Wolf Translator: Sue Rose
Publisher: Pushkin Children's Books
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 11+

The Oksa Pollock series has legions of fans all over the world, and this first installment leaves us in no doubt why.

Old Dog

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

The Young Pups, like many of their young readers, shy away from visiting Grandpa Dog because they think he’s old, smelly, embarrassing and boring.

Old Enough to Save the Planet

Author: Loll Kirby Illustrator: Adelina Lirius
Publisher: Magic Cat Publishing
Interest age: 6-11
Reading age: 7+

Telling the stories of twelve young activists inspiring change in their communities and around the world, this is a book to treasure and so too are the young people whose stories it contains. Celebrating young activists, in style, it will inform and inspire many more.

Old Gods New Tricks

Author: Thiago de Moraes
Publisher: David Fickling Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+

Can Trixie dos Santos trick five all-powerful gods into helping her save the world? Packed with characters from myths and legends from across the world, this is an action-packed, magical adventure.

Old MacDonald

Author: Emma Dodd and Emily Hawkins
Publisher: Amazing Baby

This lovely touch and feel book centres around the popular rhyme. Join in and make farmyard noises!

Old Macdonald Had a Farm

Author: Camilla Reid Illustrator: Jill Howarth
Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
Interest age: 2-3

Young children will love singing along to the familiar nursery rhyme Old Macdonald while learning to count to five in this delightful, interactive board book.

Old MacDonald Had A Phone

Author: Jeanne Willis and Tony Ross
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 3-5

Part of a series of picture books with an internet safety theme, Old MacDonald Had a Phone tackles the subject of limiting screen time with Jeanne Willis’ and Tony Ross’ marvellous humour and zaniness.

Old MacDonald Heard a Parp

Author: Olaf Falafel
Publisher: HarperCollins
Interest age: 4-6
Reading age: 5+

Old MacDonald keeps hearing big, noisy PARPS while he is working! Which of the animals is making this rather rude sound?

Old Peter’s Russian Tales

Author: Arthur Ransome
Publisher: Jane Nissen Books
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 8+

Old Peter's Russian Tales is a collection of Russian folk-tales retold/collected by Ransome, originally published in 1916. The book not only offers up some short an dengaging slices o magical fantasy, but is also an intriguing insight in to the myths and folklore of Russian culture.

Perfect for those children who love Grimm style fairy tales.

Olive and the Big Secret

Author: Tor Freeman
Publisher: Brubaker, Ford & Friends
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 5+

Molly the rabbit has a big secret . She shares it with her best friend Olive the cat and asks her not to tell anyone.

Oliver

Author: Birgitta Sif
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+

Oliver is happy living in his own world, where his imagination takes him on great adventures, but sometimes he gets lonely.

Oliver and Patch

Author: Claire Freedman Illustrator: Kate Hindley
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 6+

A lovely, heart-warming story of friendship and adventure.

Oliver and the Seawigs

Author: Philip Reeve Illustrator: Sarah McIntyre
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 8+

Philip Reeve and Sarah McInytre have joined forces to create a wonderfully wacky nautical tale.

Oliver Elephant

Author: Lou Peacock Illustrator: Helen Stephens
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 3-6
Reading age: 5+

When Noah loses his favourite toy Oliver Elephant on a Christmas shopping trip, will he ever be able to find him again? A heart-warming story of everyday life that will be loved by fans of Shirley Hughes and Judith Kerr.

Oliver Fibbs: Attack of the Alien Brain

Author: Steve Hartley
Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 7+

Oliver Tibbs has been rechristened ‘Oliver Fibbs’ by classmates because of his habit of telling whoppers in an attempt to appear more impressive.

Oliver Moon and the Potion Commotion

Author: Sue Mongredien Illustrator: Jan McCafferty
Publisher: Usborne
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 7+

Schools and magic are a winning combination, and Oliver Moon's adventures bring the genre to a younger readership via a tiny chapter-book.

Oliver Twist

Author: Charles Dickens Illustrator: Barry Ablett Adapted by Usborne
Publisher: Usborne
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 6+

This classic is retold with simple text to delight and inspire any child who is just beginning to read

Oliver Twisted

Author: J D Sharpe
Publisher: Electric Monkey
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 10+

'Can I have some gore?' Oliver Twist is given a supernatural spin in this vivid reimagining of Dickens’ novel.

Oliver Who Travelled Far and Wide

Author: Mara Bergman Illustrator: Nick Maland
Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+

Beautiful, imaginative, soothing, reassuring – the perfect bedtime story.

Oliver Who Was Small But Mighty

Author: Mara Bergman Illustrator: Nick Maland
Publisher: Hachette
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 5+

The reassuring text moves rhythmically and repetitively, engaging the youngest of readers who can quickly learn to join in with the rhymes.

Oliver Who Would Not Sleep

Author: Mara Bergman Illustrator: Nick Maland
Publisher: Hachette
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 6+

The reader is carried along for the ride by a splendidly rhythmic text

Olivia goes to Venice

Author: Ian Falconer
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Childrens Books
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 4+

This story follows Olivia as she gets ready for her holiday, flies on a plane, gets searched at the airport and explores Venice.

Olivia's First Term

Author: Lyn Gardner
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

With strong characters and a gripping story, girls will enjoy this fresh take on the classic stage story and look forward to the rest of the books in the series.

Ollie Spark and the Accidental Adventure

Author: Gillian Cross Illustrator: Alan Snow
Publisher: David Fickling Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9-11

Ollie Spark is a skilled engineer who cleverly transforms a clapped-out old van into a stylish and functional mobile home for his Aunt Caz. Eager to travel the world to research her new series of spy books, Aunt Caz zooms off, completely unaware that Ollie is trapped in the boot. When they arrive in a mysterious land, which is covered in a thick blanket of s…

Ollie’s Christmas Reindeer

Author: Nicola Killen
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 3-5

Nicola Killen's black, white and red picture book with silver detailing is a stylish take on the magic of Christmas Eve, a simple, lovely story about friendship at Christmas.

Ollie’s Magic Bunny

Author: Nicola Killen
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 3-5

One day, Ollie takes her toy bunny outside to play in the rainy, windy day. Despite the weather, Ollie and Bunny go on a marvelous adventure, aided by the yellow umbrella. Perfect for all owners of favourite bears, bunnies and other special friends.

Olly Brown, God of Hamsters

Author: Bethany Walker Illustrator: Jack Noel
Publisher: Scholastic
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+

Olly is flabbergasted when a horde of hamsters appear in his bedroom after crash-landing their spaceship in his neighbour’s garden pond. This hilarious sci-fi adventure highlights the importance of friendship and having the courage to face your fears.

Olu’s Teacher

Author: Jamel C. Campbell Illustrator: Lydia Mba
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 4-5

Olu’s nervous about going to nursery – but luckily his teacher is the very cool Jay! A reassuring, gentle story to allay any worries about this first step.

Om Shanti, Babe

Author: Helen Limon
Publisher: Frances Lincoln
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 10+

Cass is excited to be flying to Kerala with her Mum, dreaming of Bollywood glamour, new friends and pop idol Johnny Gold. But when she arrives in India, nothing is quite as she had imagined...

Omar, the Bees and Me

Author: Helen Mortimer Illustrator: Katie Cottle
Publisher: Owlet Press
Interest age: 4-8

With a perfect balance of fact and narrative, this heartwarming picture book will engage and delight young children, and inspire them to encourage bees into their own outdoor spaces.

Omega the Unknown

Author: Jonathan Lethem & Karl Rusnack Illustrator: Farel Dalrymple & Paul Hornschemeier
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 9+

The story of a mute, reluctant super hero from another planet, and the earthly teenager with whom he shares a strange destiny.

OMG! Is This Actually My Life?

Author: Rae Earl
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 11+

When Hattie is sent to her room for being sick in her step-father's fish tank, she decides to start writing a diary and sort her life out.

On A Magical Do-Nothing Day

Author: Beatrice Alemagna
Publisher: Thames & Hudson
Interest age: 4-7
Reading age: 6+

A boy isn't too happy about being told to go and play outside, but soon discovers the wonders of nature in this beautiful, arty book.

On Angel Wings

Author: Michael Morpurgo Illustrator: Quentin Blake
Publisher: Farshore
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 6+

Quentin Blake's distinctive illustrations adorn this charming retelling of the nativity, which would be perfect for reading aloud on Christmas Eve.

On My Papa’s Shoulders

Author: Niki Daly
Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
Interest age: 4-5

A touching picture book about the special bond between fathers and sons. One little boy in South Africa narrates his routine of walking to school with different family members.

On Silver Tides

Author: Sylvia Bishop
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

What would you endure to save the life of someone you love? This stunning and original fantasy adventure explores the clash between the ancient wisdom of amphibious humans and the desire to protect an innocent child.

On Sleepy Hill

Author: Patricia Hegarty Illustrator: Xuan Le
Publisher: Caterpillar Books
Interest age: 0-3

The animals of Sleepy Hill are saying goodnight, because it's time for bed! A beautiful, soothing story perfect for snuggling up with in the evening.

On the Come Up

Author: Angie Thomas
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 12-18
Reading age: 12+

On the Come Up is a classic in the making, an inspiring coming-of-age story that gets right to the heart of what it means to overcome life’s obstacles and the struggle not to become what everyone expects you to be.

On The Move

Author: DK Braille
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: Young braille readers

One of a new series of books developed in consultation with the RNIB, this particular title focuses on transport. The board book features everything from trains and cars to cranes and unicycles, supported by a range of interesting facts.

On the Move: Poems About Migration

Author: Michael Rosen Illustrator: Quentin Blake
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 9-12
Reading age: 9+

This emotive poetry anthology from former Children’s Laureate, Michael Rosen, explores the plight of refugees today, Rosen's childhood as part of a Jewish family in post-war London, his family's' memories of the war, and the fate of relatives who disappeared in Nazi Germany.

On Your Marks, Get Set, Gold! A Fact-Filled, Funny Guide to Every Olympic Sport

Author: Scott Allen Illustrator: Antoine Corbineau
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 7-10
Reading age: 8+

This amusing and interesting book is a great place to start for primary school age children interested in learning more about the great variety of Olympic and Paralympic sports, from Judo to Artistic Gymnastics and everything inbetween.

Once

Author: Morris Gleitzman
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 9+

Morris Gleitzman brings heart and humour to the difficult subject of the Holocaust in this ground-breaking children's book.

Once Upon a Bathtime

Author: Vi Hughes Illustrator: Sima Elizabeth Shefrin
Publisher: Tradewind Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 4+

A little girl takes a bath with a fairytale twist as she is joined by a number of fairytale characters as well as her favourite toys.

Once Upon a Bedtime

Author: David Melling
Publisher: Hodder
Interest age: 2-5

Once upon a bedtime, a long yawwwn floated down Sleepy Street. Rabbit is very tired indeed, and it’s time for her and her animal friends to gather up their cuddlies and go to sleep. But there’s a funny noise coming from under the bed. Is there someone who hasn’t got a cuddly? What can be done? A delightful picture book full of sweet animal characters th…

Once Upon a Raindrop

Author: James Carter Illustrator: Nomoco
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 7+

Why is the moon so dry when the Earth has oceans and rivers and snow and ice? This rhyming and poetical picture book brilliantly introduces the concept of the water cycle and the value of water in our lives.

Once Upon a Rhythm

Author: James Carter Illustrator: Valerio Vidali
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 5+

Rhythm and music are all around us, from how we walk down the street to the songs of the birds. This bold and colourful picture book explores the history of music, thinking about how the first instruments may have been created and how the creation of music grew.

Once Upon a Star

Author: James Carter Illustrator: Mar Hernandez
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 5+

As the sun goes down and the sky gets dark, out come the stars, thousands of little lanterns hanging in the sky. But where did they come from and how did they get there? In this beautiful picture book, poetry and non fiction come together to describe the Big Bang and the creation of our solar system.

Once Upon a Tune: Stories from the Orchestra

Author: James Mayhew
Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6+

Classical music often tells a story, and James Mayhew has retold and illustrated six of the most exciting ones in this wonderful volume. A really gorgeous book, which would be a wonderful gift or addition to your bookshelf.

Once Upon a Wild Wood

Author: Chris Riddell
Publisher: MacMillan Children’s Books
Interest age: 4-7
Reading age: 6+

A brand-new fairytale character, Little Green Rain Cape, sets off through the wild woods on her way to Rapunzel’s birthday party. On the way, she meets and helps a host of beloved fairytale characters. A delightful picture book that children of all ages will love.

Once Upon an Alphabet

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

In this his latest offering, Oliver Jeffers presents his own original and imaginative spin on the traditional ABC book, bringing the alphabet vividly to life.

Once Upon an Eid: Stories of Hope and Joy by 15 Muslim Voices

Author: Various (Editor: S. K. Ali and Aisha Saeed) Illustrator: Sara Alfageeth
Publisher: Amulet Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 7+

Fifteen stories of joy, showcasing the Eid traditions of kindness, generosity and delicious food that many Muslim families follow. A book to treasure, for readers from every walk of life.

Once Upon an Ordinary School Day

Author: Colin McNaughton Illustrator: Satoshi Kitamura
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 5+

An ordinary boy goes off to school and everything seems just as ordinary as ever, until a new teacher arrives in class.

One

Author: Sarah Crossan
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+

This is a book that goes straight into your heart and once it is there, won't leave. One is a brilliant, beautiful, and heart-wrenching novel that is not to be missed.

One Banana, Two Bananas

Author: Adam and Charlotte Guillain Illustrator: Sam Lloyd
Publisher: Farshore

It’s party time in Banana Bungalow! One banana, two bananas, three bananas, four… Eight bananas in pyjamas are bouncing on the bed when they spy a panorama of llamas outside, who invite them to join their llama race. As the race gets underway, more visitors arrive – including one who is rather partial to a banana or two… As chaos descends on this llama-banan…

One Chance Dance

Author: Efua Traoré
Publisher: Chicken House
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+

A stunning, joyful, coming-of-age story, set in Nigeria, that vibrates with the same energy as the city of Lagos itself.

One Cheetah, One Cherry

Author: Jackie Morris
Publisher: Otter Barry
Interest age: 1-5

Cheetah and tigers and pandas and polar bears feature in this wonderful book about helping children count to ten. Whether it's otters juggling or foxes eating strawberries, each page is filled with exotic adventure and sumptuous illustrations.

One Christmas in Our Building

Author: Johanna Lindemann Illustrator: Andrea Stegmaier
Publisher: Floris Books
Interest age: 4-5

When Emma’s turkey goes missing, her neighbours join forces to ensure she has an extra special Christmas day. A heart-warming picture book, full of Christmas spirit.

One Christmas Wish

Author: Katherine Rundell Illustrator: Emily Sutton
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 6-9
Reading age: 7+

One Christmas Wish has the right amount of charm and mischief to delight young readers, and Emily Sutton’s beautiful illustrations evoke the Christmases we dream of: cosy, colourful and magical.

One Cool Cat

Author: Susannah Corbett Illustrator: David Roberts
Publisher: Farshore
Interest age: 5+
Reading age: 6+

White Cat is one cool customer - far to cool to care about silly superstitions. But pride comes before a fall, and eventually White Cat tries one boast too many, with hilariously disastrous consequences.

One Crow Alone

Author: Sophie Crockett
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 11+

In the midst of a seemingly never-ending winter, Magda gradually loses all the things that give her life direction and meaning.

One Day on Our Blue Planet... in the Savannah

Author: Ella Bailey
Publisher: Flying Eye Books
Interest age: 4-8
Reading age: 6+

This is a lovely discussion book for children who have an interest in animals and the natural environment.

One Dog and His Boy

Author: Eva Ibbotson Illustrator: Sharon Rentta
Publisher: Marion Lloyd Books
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 8+

All Hal wants for his birthday is a dog and when he is given one he is overjoyed. But when Hal realises Fleck was only his for the weekend, he sets off on an adventure with the dog...

One Extra Sparkle: Ellie and the Marriage List

Author: Tricia Seabolt Illustrator: Lucy Rogers
Publisher: Lantana
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 7+

A light-hearted middle-grade story about family and friendship with a protagonist who has Down syndrome.

One Girl

Author: Andrea Beaty Illustrator: Dow Phumiruk
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers
Interest age: 4-5

As a young girl sits forlornly on her front porch, a bright light shoots through the night sky, depositing a book at her feet. This gentle picture book about the joy of reading carries a deeper message about the fundamental importance of girls’ education.

One Gorilla

Author: Anthony Browne
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 5+

From one gorilla to ten lemurs, Anthony Browne's beautiful counting book will delight young children and their parents alike.

One Home Eighteen stories of hope from young activists

Author: Hiba Noor Khan Illustrator: Rachael Dean
Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

Stunningly illustrated, the stories of these eighteen young environmental activists, and their home landscape and animals, will inspire and inform all readers. A passionate and inspiring call to action to save our planet, our one home.

One House for All

Author: Inese Zandere Illustrator: Juris Petraškevičs Translator: Sabīne Ozola and adapted by Lawrence Schimel
Publisher: Book Island
Interest age: 3-5
Reading age: 5+

Crayfish, Horse and Raven are best friends and often spend time chatting together under a tall tree in a green meadow on a river bank. Now they are grown up, they decide to build a big house where they and their families can all live together.

One is a Snail, Ten is a Crab

Author: April Pulley Sayre and Jeff Sayre Illustrator: Randy Cecil
Publisher: Walker

This is an original approach to counting, using feet instead of fingers!

You'll have fun going through the numbers, 'One is a snail, two is a person'.

There's fun learning here as children work out lots of animal combinations to make numbers up to 100.

One Little Word

Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Allison Colpoys
Publisher: Frances Lincoln (Quarto)
Interest age: 5-6
Reading age: 6+

This is a poignant picture book about the power of friendship and knowing when to say sorry. The gentle, lyrical text from Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho handles the familiar heightened emotions of playground-fall outs in a way that feels sincere and authentic.

One Mole Digging a Hole

Author: Julia Donaldson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
Interest age: 2-5
Reading age: 5+

In this vibrant counting book, one mole digging a hole is soon joined by a troupe of gardening friends, including nine doves in gardening gloves and ten bees pruning trees.

One Moonlit Night

Author: Zanna Davidson Illustrator: Seo Kim
Publisher: Templar
Interest age: 3-7
Reading age: 5+

A little girl sets off on a magical journey on her little boat in this truly stunning pop-up book that you won't be able to resist.

One Night in the Zoo

Author: Judith Kerr
Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 6+

This rhyming counting book is set in a zoo and follows the antics of the various animal inhabitants once night falls.

One of Us

Author: Jeannie Waudby
Publisher: Chicken House
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 10

A tense and unsettling tale of intrigue, discrimination and prejudice with obvious contemporary parallels in religious and political extremism and the challenges facing the moderate majority.

One Silver Summer

Author: Rachel Hickman
Publisher: Old Barn Books
Interest age: 11-15
Reading age: 11+

Set in the dramatic landscape of wild Cornwall, this 21st-century take on first love stars a prince, a grief-stricken girl, beautiful, brave horses and a desperate pack of journalists who will stop at nothing to get their story. Contemporary but timeless.

One Smart Fish

Author: Chris Wormell
Publisher: Red Fox
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 7+

A small silver fish has done everything he can possibly do in the ocean - he sings, dances and even performs plays, but has never walked upon the land.

One Snowy Night

Author: Nick Butterworth
Publisher: Harper Collins
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 6+

This is a heartwarming story of animals in winter - the story teaches children to look and think about the world around them.

One Snowy Rescue

Author: M. Christina Butler Illustrator: Tina Macnaughton
Publisher: Little Tiger
Interest age: 3-5

Hedgehog is coming to the rescue - but he needs rescuing instead! This delightful story is all about friends helping each other.

One Special Sleepover

Author: M Christina Butler Illustrator: Tina Macnaughton
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 7

A gentle story about friendship and sleepovers, with textured, soft focus illustrations.

One Ted Falls Out of Bed

Author: Julia Donaldson Illustrator: Anna Currey
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 4+

This book is brilliant for bedtime, and the rhyming story is fun to read.

One Thing

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

Lauren Child's take on the art of numbers. Charlie and Lola investigate what, why and how numbers and number words are used.

One Time

Author: Sharon Creech Illustrator: Sarah Horne
Publisher: Guppy Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+

An inspirational teacher and a neighbour with a welcoming smile open up a world of new possibilities for Gina Filomena.

One to Ten Animal Mayhem

Author: Thomas Flintham
Publisher: Scholastic

A colourful counting book full of animals.

One World: 24 Hours on Planet Earth

Author: Nicola Davies Illustrator: Jenni Desmond
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6-8

Two children follow one moment across the world, observing wonderful animals and amazing landscapes and environments, but there’s a dark side too: pollution, rising temperatures, plastic in the oceans, poachers.

One Year With Kipper

Author: Mick Inkpen
Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
Interest age: 2-6
Reading age: 7+

Kipper has a new camera and starts the year as he means to go on, by taking photographs during each month so he doesn't forget what he and his best friend Tiger got up to.

One, Two, Cockatoo!

Author: Sarah Garson
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+

Here is a rhyming, counting book with cockatoos having fun on every page.

One, Two, Tree!

Author: Anushka Ravishankar and Sirish Rao Illustrator: Durga Bai
Publisher: Tara Publishing
Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 4+

This is an unusual and creative counting book. The pictures reflect the tribal traditions of central India, and the tree fills up with animals as the story progresses.

Only Eva

Author: Judi Curtin
Publisher: O'Brien
Interest age: 8-12
Reading age: 8

As a character Curtin's Eva introduces young readers to members of society who are often badly treated, and encourages them to think about others.

Only Ever Yours

Author: Louise O'Neill
Publisher: Quercus
Interest age: 14+
Reading age: 14+

This debut novel is a triumph and a must-read for all teens, both girls and boys. A story about friendship, self-worth, and a story that stays with the reader long after the book has been put down.

Only One of Me: A love letter from Mum

Author: Lisa Wells and Michelle Robinson Illustrator: Catalina Echeverri
Publisher: Graffeg
Interest age: 4-5

A mum facing terminal illness reassures her daughter that she will always love her, in this beautiful, tender rhyming book written by Lisa Wells - who was diagnosed with terminal cancer - for her children to remember her by.

Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun

Author: Tọlá Okogwu
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

Onyeka has always hated her hair so it’s ironic that it should turn out to be the source of a spectacular superpower.

Onyeka and the Rise of the Rebels

Author: Tọlá Okogwu
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

Can Onyeka and her new superhero allies, the Rebels, stop Dr Dòyìnbó from taking over the country? Full of superhero moves and gadgets, this is an thrilling adventure for fans of the Black Panther franchise.

Opal Plumstead

Author: Jacqueline Wilson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
Publisher: Doubleday Children's Books
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 8+

Fourteen-year-old Opal's family falls on hard times when her accountant father foolishly forges a cheque to support his family.

Open Up, Please!

Author: Silvia Borando and Lorenzo Clerici
Publisher: Walker
Interest age: 0-3

Open Up, Please! is a cute and colourful book filled with critters that little ones will love. It provides great parent-child interaction and the ending will make both the parents and the kids chuckle…

Open Very Carefully

Author: Nick Bromley Illustrator: Nicola O'Byrne
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+

A crocodile has invaded the pages of this picture book, and is causing chaos by gobbling up words!

Operation Bunny

Author: Sally Gardner Illustrator: David Roberts
Publisher: Orion Children's Books
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 7+

In the first case for the Fairy Detective Agency, Wings and Co, resourceful heroine Emily Vole must defeat the dastardly fairy-snatching villain Harpella.

Operation Eiffel Tower

Author: Elen Caldecott
Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

A funny and very moving story that tackles important issues with a light touch

Operation Gadgetman!

Author: Malorie Blackman
Publisher: Random House
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+

Beans's Dad is a bit of an eccentric. When he's not embarrassing her in front of her friends with his strange behaviour, he's in his workshop inventing ridiculous things like exploding shortbread (and irritating the neighbours while he's about it).

Operation Nativity

Author: Jenny Pearson Illustrator: Katie Kear
Publisher: Usborne
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

When the Archangel Gabriel inadvertently blasts several members of the nativity into a present-day Hampshire village, siblings Oscar and Molly embark on an epic quest to return them to Bethlehem and save Christmas. Bursting with humour, energy and plenty of heart, this entertaining tale is guaranteed to get readers in the festive mood.

Operation Ouch!

Author: Dr Chris and Dr Xand van Tulleken
Publisher: Little, Brown Young Reader
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

Have you ever wondered how long you'll spend on the toilet in your lifetime, or how many skin cells you shed in one day? Operation Ouch! Your Brilliant Body explains everything you've ever wanted to know about your body, including how it works and how it fixes itself.

Ophelia and the Marvellous Boy

Author: Karen Foxlee
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Interest age: 8+
Reading age: 9+

On her first day exploring the strange museum in the foreign city where it always snows, Ophelia stumbles across something impossible: a boy, locked away in a forgotten room.

Opposites

Author: Patrick George
Publisher: PatrickGeorge
Interest age: 4+
Reading age: 4+

A fun, accessible book which uses clever see-through pages to explore the idea of opposites - turn a drop of water into a candle flame or a bird from being inside its cage to outside.

Optimists Die First

Author: Susin Nielsen
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 12-16
Reading age: 12+

Petula's life is ruled by anxiety, fear and pessimism after her little sister died two years before. Then she meets Jacob, and an unconventional love story unfolds. Another five star read from Susin Nielsen: one of the most talented teen writers working today.

Orange Pear Apple Bear

Author: Emily Gravett
Publisher: Macmillan Children's books
Interest age: 0-3

Emily Gravett's colourful yet sparse illustrations cleverly depict a bumbling bear interacting in many different and imaginative ways with the fruit mentioned in the title.

Orangeboy

Author: Patrice Lawrence
Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
Interest age: 15+
Reading age: 13+

A boy that no one notices becomes a target on the run, when a tragic event prompts him to mix with a world of street gangs and drug dealers. This pacey crime thriller feels unique, realistic and truthful.

Oranges in No Man's Land

Author: Elizabeth Laird
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Interest age: 8+
Reading age: 9+

Ayesha and her young brothers find themselves refugees in a bombed out flat in Beirut with only an elderly grandmother to care for them.

Orbiting Jupiter

Author: Gary D Schmidt
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 12+

The poetic, uncluttered prose of this short beautiful novel resonates for a long time. Joseph's story ends heart-breakingly but he experiences love and a glimpse of redemption with Jack's family, who are equally changed by him.

Orion and the Dark

Author: Emma Yarlett
Publisher: Templar Publishing
Interest age: 4-5

Orion doesn’t like bedtime – because it gets dark. But when Dark drops in to visit him, Orion might find it’s not that scary after all. Reassuringly warm, with beautiful illustrations.

Orion Lost

Author: Alastair Chisholm
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 11-14
Reading age: 9+

When her spaceship is attacked and all adults incapacitated, 13 year old Beth is appointed new Captain of the Orion. It's a role she's always dreamed of, but meteor storms and ruthless space pirates await... A thrilling futuristic journey full of twists and turns, perfect for older readers.

Orphans of the Tide

Author: Struan Murray Illustrator: Manuel Šumberac
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

When a mysterious boy arrives in The City, everyone except Ellie is convinced he's the Vessel - the host for the dreaded Enemy. Will Ellie be able to keep him safe and protect her own secrets? A thrilling, brilliantly realised adventure full of twists and peril.

Oscar the Hungry Unicorn

Author: Lou Carter Illustrator: Nikki Dyson
Publisher: Orchard
Interest age: 3-5

Oscar, a glum-looking unicorn, is so hungry he eats his own stable, and the trouble doesn't stop there. Turning classic fairy tales upside down, this hilarious book will brighten up any day.

Oskar and the Things

Author: Andrus Kivirähk Illustrator: Anne Pikkov Translator: Adam Cullen
Publisher: The Emma Press
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+

When Oskar makes a toy phone from a piece of wood, he is astounded when he discovers he can use it to call objects in and around Grandma’s house. Set in Estonia and translated into English, this quirky chapter book celebrates the power of imaginative play.

Ostrich Boys

Author: Keith Gray
Publisher: Random House
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 11+

When teenager Ross Fell is killed, his closest friends are horrified by the sham and hypocrisy of his funeral.

Otherland

Author: Louie Stowell
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

Myra and Rohan might share a birthday, but they can't stand each other! When Rohan's baby sister Shilpa is stolen away to Otherland by fairies, they must learn to work together in order to rescue her from the ruthless fairy queen.

Otters' Moon

Author: Susanna Bailey
Publisher: Farshore
Interest age: 9-12
Reading age: 9+

Trying to save endangered otter pups stops Luke and Meg focussing on the bad stuff in their lives but sometimes it takes a brush with real loss to make you fully appreciate what you have.

Otto the Book Bear

Author: Katie Cleminson
Publisher: Jonathan Cape Children's Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: 6+

A charming celebration of books and reading

Ottoline and the Yellow Cat

Author: Chris Riddell
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 7+

Ottoline is good at solving mysteries, in part due to her eavesdropping habit and in part because of her qualification as a mistress of disguise.

Ottoline at Sea

Author: Chris Riddell
Publisher: Macmillan's Children's Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

When Mr Munroe starts wearing the Bog Goggles he is led on an unexpected journey. On her quest to find her friend, Ottoline meets a host of different people and creatures, goes deep sea diving, and even flies in a plane.

Ottoline Goes to School

Author: Chris Riddell
Publisher: Macmillan's Children's Books
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

When Ottoline and Mr Munroe decide to attend The Alice B Smith School for the Differently Gifted, little do they know that there are rumours of a ghost which walks the corridors. Using her unique gift, Ottoline must design a plan to solve the mystery and keep her friends safe.

Our Amazing Planet: The World in Infographics

Author: Jon Richards and Ed Simkins
Publisher: Wayland
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

Bold images, glorious graphics and oodles of information about our wonderful planet guarantee that children will love learning about our awesome world.

Our Big Blue Sofa

Author: Tim Hopgood
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Interest age: 2-5

This book is compulsively strokeable, with the sofa's velvety floral design featuring in 3D on every spread.

Our Chemical Hearts

Author: Krystal Sutherland
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Interest age: 14+
Reading age: 14+

Henry Page is a hopeless romantic who's never been in love. Grace Town, who walks with a cane, wears oversized clothes, and rarely showers, isn't the dream girl he imagined - but when they are both chosen to edit the school paper, it doesn't take long for him to start falling for her. It's obvious there is something broken about Grace, and Henry wants to hel…

Our Earth is a Poem: poetry about nature

Author: Various Illustrator: Annalise Barber; Mariana Roldán; Masha Manapov; Nabila Adani
Publisher: Little Tiger
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6+

A stunning collection of poems, beautifully illustrated, that explores and celebrate nature in its various magnificent forms. Perfect for reading aloud, and for curling up with.

Our Incredible Library Book and the wonderful journeys it took

Author: Caroline Crowe Illustrator: John Joseph
Publisher: Floris Books
Interest age: 4-5

Follow one book as lots of different children enjoy reading it. That’s the magic of a library book!

Our Little Inventor

Author: Sher Rill Ng
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Interest age: 5-8
Reading age: 5+

Nell goes on a journey to the polluted Big City to reveal a machine that can clean the city's air. A beautiful picture book that demonstrates the power of the people against "the man", and will fill every child with big dreams to make the world a better place.

Our Rights! Stories and Poems about Children’s Rights

Author: Various Editor: Jake Hope Illustrator: Ruthine Burton Chih-An Chen and Habiba Nabisubi
Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 7+

An important book highlighting the rights of the child in a diverse collection of brilliant stories and poems. Entertaining and thought-provoking, this will stimulate discussion and encourage empathy.

Our Sister, Again

Author: Sophie Cameron
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+

Exploring a number of ethical questions, Our Sister, Again is simultaneously an intriguing mystery and a moving story of grief, family bonds, and what it means to be human.

Our Story Starts in Africa

Author: Patrice Lawrence Illustrator: Jeanetta Gonzales
Publisher: Magic Cat
Interest age: 6-8

A perfectly pitched story of Black history that brings it back to the personal for a little girl.

Our Tower

Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Richard Johnson
Publisher: Frances Lincoln
Interest age: 4-5

Three children find the magic in their tower block – showing that nature and adventure is for everyone. A beautifully illustrated, lyrically told story.

Wedi'i ysgrifennu mewn sigl odledig telynegol, mae hwn yn ddathliad o bawb sy'n byw mewn blociau o fflatiau ac ar stadau.

Our World: A First Book of Geography

Author: Sue Lowell Gallion Illustrator: Lisk Feng
Publisher: Phaidon
Interest age: 4-8

A beautiful, nostalgic-feeling book that will delight younger primary school readers and help introduce them to the idea of geography and differing environments for the first time.

Out

Author: Joanna Kenrick
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 9+

A quick and simple read which nonetheless does justice to the complex feelings and emotions of the characters, as they deal with the challenges of changing relationships.

Out of Heart

Author: Irfan Master
Publisher: Hot Key
Interest age: 13-15
Reading age: 10+

This extraordinary, almost magical, book is ostensibly the story of an organ donation but is really about the trauma, violence and messiness of an ordinary life. Out of Heart shows how life's imperfections allow us to grow into who we are meant to be.

Out of Shadows

Author: Jason Wallace
Publisher: Andersen Press
Interest age: 13+
Reading age: 12+

Back in the early 1980s, Robert Jacklin doesn't want to move to the newly independent Zimbabwe with his parents, nor does he want to be shipped off to boarding school.

Out of the Blue

Author: Alison Jay
Publisher: Barefoot Books
Interest age: 3+
Reading age: n/a

A wordless book with unique, crackly illustrations about the mysteries of the sea.

Tell a new story, in your own words, every time you share this book with your preschooler.

With notes at the end about marine life, lighthouses and items that wash up on beaches.

Out of the Blue

Author: Sophie Cameron
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 13-18
Reading age: 10+

Angels are falling from the sky, and it is 17-year-old Jaya who finds a live one. The urgent drama of saving the angel plays out against Jaya’s grief for her dead mother. Out of the Blue is a unique, charming novel by a powerful writer.

Out of the Blue

Author: Robert Tregoning Illustrator: Stef Murphy
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 4-5

In a world where everything has to be blue, what happens if you like yellow? A joyous celebration of being individual.

Mae bachgen ifanc yn byw mewn man lle mae unrhyw beth nad yw'n las yn cael ei wahardd, trwy orchymyn y llywodraeth. Ond mae gan y bachgen gyfrinach: mae wrth ei fodd â'r lliw melyn. Mae'n teimlo bod hoffi melyn yn gorfod bod yn beth drwg.

Out of the Clouds

Author: Diana Hendry
Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
Interest age: 7-12
Reading age: 8+

Oliver has to do everything - shopping, cooking, cleaning - and he's fed up of looking after grandpa, mum, Titch and Lottie. A heart-warming story by award-winning Diana Hendry about a boy who is missing his father.

Out of the Depths

Author: Cathy MacPhail
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+

When Tyler Lawless sees her dead teacher in the supermarket queue, everyone blames her overactive imagination.

Out of This World

Author: Ali Sparkes
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Tyrone Lewis was just an ordinary thirteen year old, until the day he discovered something extraordinary in the woods . . . a glowing lump of rock or metal or something. Whatever it is, it gives him an awesome power. And a lot of trouble . . . because someone wants it back, and they'll stop at nothing to get it.

Outcast

Author: Michelle Paver
Publisher: Orion Childrens Books
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 9+

Set six thousand years ago, this story has all the drama, tension and adventure of a contemporary novel.

Outcasts: The Game

Author: David Grimstone
Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10-12

Jake, Lemon, Fatyak and Kellogg are the Outcasts: a group of friends formed after being victims of bully Todd Miller. This is a fast-paced action story, perfect for those who love superheroes, RPGs or a quick, punchy read.

Outlaw

Author: Stephen Davies
Publisher: Anderson Press
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 9+

Against the backdrop of an African country and its many real issues, Jake and Kas have to figure out who are the real 'terrorists' and where truth and justice lie

Outlaw: The Legend of Robin Hood

Author: Tony Lee Illustrator: Sam Hart and Artur Fujita
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 11+
Reading age: 9+

This is a captivating retelling of the Robin Hood story with punchy dialogue and suitably dark and atmospheric images.

Outlaw: The story of Robin Hood

Author: Sir Michael Morpurgo
Publisher: Harper Collins
Interest age: 9-12
Reading age: 10+

This classic story is given a contemporary twist. The Merry Men become the Outlaws: a gang of the disabled, disfigured and dispossessed fighting back against tyranny.

Outside In: Nature Poems

Author: Daniel Thompson Illustrator: Julia Murray
Publisher: Collins
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 7+

This wonderful collection of 50 poems celebrates different aspects of the natural world, from animals and plants to seasons and weather. Perfect for anyone with a love of the outdoors, each verse is accompanied by charming, colourful artwork.

Outside: A Guide to Discovering Nature

Author: Maria Ana Peixe Dias and Ines Teixeira do Rosario Illustrator: Bernardo P Carvalho
Publisher: Frances Lincoln
Interest age: 8+
Reading age: 8+

Amphibians, birds, rocks, oceans and clouds: they're all explored in this large and stylish hardcover guide to nature for children in cities and the countryside alike.

Over and Under the Pond

Author: Kate Messner
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Interest age: 5+
Reading age: 7+

A boy and his mother take their canoe out to explore the mountain pond, paddling past painted turtles, red-winged blackbirds and a moose eating lunch. Under the water, a beaver is diving for roots from the mud at the bottom of the pond and a heron is fishing for minnows on the bank.

Books beginning with: O