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Books beginning with: C

• Cactus Kid: The Battle for Star Rock Mountain

  Author: Emmanuel Guerrero
  Publisher: Flying Eye Books
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Cactus Kid is determined to become the world's most powerful wizard, so he journeys to Star Rock Mountain in search of a special ingredient for his potion. This madcap graphic novel is teeming with vibrant comic-strip illustrations, offbeat humour and quirky characters.

• Caddy's World

  Author: Hilary McKay
  Publisher: Hodder
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  This prequel to the award-winning Saffy's Angel focuses on 12-year-old Caddy Casson and her best friends: Alison, who hates everyone, Ruby who is clever and Beth who is perfect, as the girls embark upon the difficult and sometimes confusing business of growing-up. This book provides a perfect introduction to the loveable Casson family and is both moving…

• Cake

  Author: Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Cake is delighted when he receives his first ever party invitation. But will being a cake at a birthday party really end well…? Lots of humour and vibrant illustrations will have children giggling in anticipation as they wait to discover Cake’s fate.

• Cake Girl

  Author: David Lucas
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  The story of a lonely witch who bakes herself a cake girl to keep her company on her birthday.

• Cakes in Space

  Author: Philip Reeve Illustrator: Sarah McIntyre
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  This lively and exciting space story from the duo behind Oliver and the Seawigs is packed with fun, adventure and plenty of surreal humour.

• Calamity Jack

  Author: Dean and Shannon Hale Illustrator: Nathan Hale
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's Books
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  This graphic novel is full of fun action set pieces, comedic turns and well-drawn out characters and is a much-needed updating of the classic fairy tale.

• Calm Down, Boris!

  Author: Sam Lloyd
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 2-4
  

  This interactive book comes complete with a Boris puppet making it perfect for sharing.

• Calming Colouring for Kids

  Author: Lauren Farnsworth Illustrator: Chellie Carroll Fay Martin Felicity French and Jane Hayes
  Publisher: Buster Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  The illustrators have done a fantastic job of providing a real range of patterns and scenes in this colouring book. There's sure to be a page that captures your child's imagination and keeps them calm and focused.

• Call Down Thunder

  Author: Daniel Finn
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Reve and his sister Mi head to the city in search of their lost mother, and find themselves in danger in this thrilling and unusual teen read.

• Call Me Alastair

  Author: Cory Leonardo
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 12-14
  Reading age: 12+

  Alastair the parrot poet dreams of freedom, blue skies and palm trees. His sister Aggie yearns to go home with animal-loving Fritz. Can their different wishes be reconciled? Heartwarming, heartbreaking, eccentric, original and stunningly good.

• Call Me Drog

  Author: Sue Cowing
  Publisher: Usborne Publishing
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Parker thinks nothing of plucking an old hand-puppet out of the rubbish but he soon realises he’s made a big mistake - Drog is no ordinary puppet

• Call Me Gorgeous

  Author: Giles Milton Illustrator: Alexandra Milton
  Publisher: Boxer Books
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 6+

  This stunning picture book intrigues and delights in equal measure.

• Call Me Lion

  Author: Camilla Chester
  Publisher: Firefly Press
  Interest age: 9-11
  

  It’s Luton, it’s the holidays and there is a heatwave. Low on friends, ten year old Leo is passing the long, lonely summer practising the thing he loves most – dancing. Then he meets his new next-door neighbour – confident and chatty, Richa is everything he isn’t but the two instantly become friends.

• Call to War: The Chronicles of Avantia

  Author: Adam Blade
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 11+

  The evil warlord Derthsin will rule Avantia if he can locate all four pieces of the Mask of Death. Only the Chosen Riders and their mythical Beasts stand between him and total control.

• Call the Puffins!

  Author: Cath Howe Illustrator: Ella Okstad
  Publisher: Welbeck Flame
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 5+

  Muffin the puffin wants to join the Puffin Rescue Team, but will her oddly-shaped feet let her down? A delightful tale of courage, making friends and starting new challenges.

  ---

  Mae hon yn stori hyfryd, wedi'i darlunio'n hardd mewn du a gwyn gyda phalod annwyl dros ben. Bydd darllenwyr ifanc yn deall pryderon Muffin am ffitio mewn yn yr 'ysgol' a gwneud ffrind…

• Calling the Whales

  Author: Jasbinder Bilan Illustrator: Skylar White
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  A powerful and quick to read adventure story on saving a humpback whale in Scotland.  

• Cally and Jimmy: Twins in Trouble

  Author: Zoe Antoniades Illustrator: Katie Kear
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Four funny, touching short stories ideal for newly confident readers and reflective of a diverse, inclusive family. 

• Cally and Jimmy: Twins Together

  Author: Zoe Antoniades Illustrator: Katie Kear
  Publisher: Andersen
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Cally and Jimmy are 10-year-old twins who couldn’t be more different. While Cally is sensible, clever and hard-working, Jimmy’s ADHD makes it difficult for him to focus or stay calm. But no matter what trouble they get into, they're always in it together!

• Camau Corsiog

  Author: Meilyr Sion Illustrator: James Cottell
  Publisher: Atebol
  Interest age: 8-9
  Reading age: 8+

  Dyma lyfr fydd yn apelio at blant sydd yn darllen llyfrau pennod am y tro cyntaf - yn enwedig y rhai sydd yn hoffi byd natur!

  This is a book that will appeal to children reading chapter books for the first time – especially nature lovers!

• Cameron Battle and the Escape Trials

  Author: Jamar J. Perry
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Children’s Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Friends Cameron, Zion and Aliyah embark on a second epic adventure to Chidani, a hidden kingdom populated by duplicitous gods, chilling monsters and powerful magic.

• Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms

  Author: Jamar J Perry
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 8+

  Cameron Battle and his friends must save a kingdom hidden inside the magical Book of Chidani. Packed full of action and adventure, this is a book that readers of fantasy aged 9 and above will find wholly engrossing.

• Camille and the Sunflowers

  Author: Laurence Anholt
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 5-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Focusing on a short period in Vincent Van Gogh's life, this story is told through the eyes of Camille, the postmaster's son.

• Can Bears Ski?

  Author: Raymond Antrobus Illustrator: Polly Dunbar
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 3-6
  

  Why do people keep asking Little Bear "Can bears ski?" A lovely and authentic picture book about hearing loss, inspired by the author's earliest memory of being read to as a child. 

• Can I Come Too?

  Author: Brian Patten Illustrator: Nicola Bayley
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 6+

  Even the smallest of us can make adventures happen. The very small mouse at the start of this tale decides that he’ll set off to find the biggest creature in the world.

• Can I Come Too?

  Author: Owen Davey
  Publisher: Rocket Bird Books
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Teddy is off to catch a fish and little Cub wants to join too – much to Teddy’s annoyance! An endearing picture book that explores sibling dynamics through a fishing adventure.

• Can I Eat That?

  Author: Joshua David Stein Illustrator: Julia Rothman
  Publisher: Phaidon Press
  Interest age: 4-8
  Reading age: 7+

  A quirky combination of fact and fun, this distinctive picture book about food poses questions that inquisitive children typically ask, such as: 'If I eat jelly and I eat fish, can I eat jellyfish?' Stylish, witty and informative.

• Can it be About Me?

  Author: Cheryl Moskowitz Illustrator: Ros Asquith
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 8+

  Exploring life in and out of the classroom, the poems in this collection explore everything from spelling tests to best friends, teachers to secrets

• Can We Save the Tiger?

  Author: Martin Jenkins Illustrator: Vicky White
  Publisher: Walker Books Ltd
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  A sequel to Ape, this beautifully illustrated book takes us through some of the extinct and endangered animals in the world.

• Can You Feel the Noise

  Author: Stewart Foster
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Author Stewart Foster – who also experienced hearing loss as a teenager – explores the challenges around disability and deafness, the ups and downs of changing friendships, and rediscovering your confidence when things take an expected turn. Sophie is highly relatable and this is a sensitively told and emotionally engaging character-driven story.

• Can You Find My Eid Presents?

  Author: A. M. Dassu Illustrator: Junissa Bianda
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Hana can't find the family's Eid presents! She looks everywhere – will she find them in time for Eid? A fun search-and-find story.

• Can You Get Rainbows in Space?

  Author: Dr Sheila Kanani Illustrator: Liz Kay
  Publisher: Puffin Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Bursting with fantastic facts and cool science, approached through the prism of colour, this is a brilliantly original way to explore the world around us.

• Can You Keep a Secret?

  Author: Melissa Castrillon
  Publisher: Alison Green Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Melissa Castrillon’s magical tale of hidden gryphons, dragons and tree men will delight any reader that loves a fairy tale with a feisty heroine.

• Can you say it too? Brrr! Brrr!

  Author: Sebastien Braun
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  This charming book, with its sturdy card pages, allows young children to discover the world of the Antarctic through its interactive pages. Each flap reveals a new animal, as well as the noise they make, so readers can join in with the fun.

• Can You Say It Too? Cheep! Cheep!

  Author: Sebastien Braun
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  Little ones will love this sturdy board book with big, simple and colourful flaps. An animal theme is always popular, but the flaps and 'can you say it too?' animal sounds make this board book extra interactive.

• Can You Say It Too? Woof! Woof!

  Author: Nosy Crow Illustrator: Sebastien Braun
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-3
  Reading age: 0-3

  Lift the big flaps to reveal which animal is hiding and the noise that they make! A brilliantly colourful and interactive board book for babies.

• Can You See a Little Bear?

  Author: James Mayhew Illustrator: Jackie Morris
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 5+

  Little Bear journeys through an astonishing collection of magical settings, and meets many exotic animals as he drifts off to sleep. The text is a series of rhyming statements and questions which draw the child's attention into the pictures, and encourage them to search for the creatures and objects mentioned, and also to discover the wealth of other images …

• Can You See Me?

  Author: Libby Scott and Rebecca Westcott
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Starting secondary school is a daunting time for any 11 year old – and Natalia is no exception. This is a powerful, readable and relatable story about trying to fit in. Along the way, a host of assumptions and stereotypes about autism are smashed. 

• Can You Tickle a Tiger?

  Author: Bobbie Brooks Illustrator: Carrie Hennon
  Publisher: Imagine That
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  A playful and brightly coloured board book featuring some of the best jungle animals, with fun felt trails to follow with your finger.

• Candle Man

  Author: Glenn Dankin
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 11+

  Theo lives a virtual prisoner at Empire Hall, cared for by Dr Saint, the butler and the maid, his knowledge of the world outside gleaned from fairy tales.

• Candyfloss

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

  Many youngsters will relate to the story of Floss, who loves both her parents dearly and desperately wants them to get back together.

• Candypop: Candy and the Broken Biscuits

  Author: Lauren Laverne
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  The story of a girl, a guitar, a guardian angel and a long-lost father. The girl is Candy Caine: in her dreams she's storming Glastonbury; in reality she doesn't even have a band.

• Cane Warriors

  Author: Alex Wheatle
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 13-16
  Reading age: 12+

  This story is inspired by a real life rebellion in British-owned slave plantations in Jamaica in 1760. Moa has spent his entire life on the slave plantation in horrific conditions - but a charismatic leader offers the chance to seize freedom.

• Cannonball Coralie and the Lion

  Author: Grace Easton
  Publisher: Lincoln Children’s (First Editions)
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  When Coralie meets Lion, she is determined to stay in his circus troupe – but none of her talents are enough to impress the Ringmaster. An accomplished and beautiful tale about why sometimes it’s OK to live by your own rules, and always best to follow your heart.

• Can't You Sleep, Little Bear?

  Author: Martin Waddell Illustrator: Barbara Firth
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Little Bear just can't get to sleep because he is afraid of the dark. Big Bear is patient and brings bigger and bigger lanterns to keep away the darkness. Still Little Bear is afraid, so Big Bear takes him outside to see the moon and the stars. Finally, cuddled up in Big Bear's arms, Little Bear goes to sleep, allowing Big Bear to finish reading his book. Th…

• Captain Cat and the Treasure Map

  Author: Sue Mongredien Illustrator: Kate Pankhurst
  Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Captain Cat and the Treasure Map is perfect for children starting to read their own books, but also tons of fun to read together at bedtime. There are lots of laughs, and the pace is nice and quick, meaning young readers will power this great new pirate series.

• Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs: Missing Treasure!

  Author: Giles Andreae
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  This latest Captain Flinn adventure finds Flinn and his friends fighting off pirate dinosaurs to recover Captain Rumblebelly's treasure and restore it to the museum.

• Captain Looroll

  Author: Matt Carr
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Captain Looroll is ready for adventure but she doesn’t get many opportunities in the toilet under the stairs. In fact, Ray the Spray and Barbara Bogbrush are equally bored.

  ---

  Mae Captain Looroll, sef rholyn toiled sydd wedi dod yn fyw, yn barod am antur. Yn anffodus, dydy hi ddim yn cael llawer o gyfleoedd yn y toiled dan y staer. Mae Ray the Spray a Barbara …

• Captain Pugwash and the Mutiny

  Author: John Ryan
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  Two great stories featuring the crew of the Black Pig, from cowardly Captain Pugwash to young cabin boy Tom

• Captain Small Pig

  Author: Martin Waddell Illustrator: Susan Varley
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  In picturing this quiet day out on the river with Turkey, Old Goat and Small Pig, Waddell and Varley have created a gently humorous text redolent of folk tales from many cultures.

• Captain Toby

  Author: Satoshi Kitamura
  Publisher: Scallywag Press
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  This reissue of Satoshi Kitamura’s 1987 book means that this fun, slightly surreal tale of a boy’s dream during a storm is once more available in the UK. Kitamura’s illustration is full of colour and creativity, and adults and children will adore this fun read.

• Captain Valiant and Me: Revenge of the Black Phantom

  Author: Adam Britten Illustrator: Arthur Hamer
  Publisher: Piccadilly
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 8+

  Mark looks like an ordinary schoolboy, but the truth is he is really Dynamic Boy, one of a family of Astral Guardians sent to protect planet Earth.

• Captive

  Author: A J Grainger
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13

  Robyn, the daughter of the British Prime Minister, is kidnapped at gunpoint, incarcerated in a tiny cell. A gripping read and a moving exploration of identity, celebrity, loyalty, politics and power.

• Car Wash Wish

  Author: Sita Brahmachari
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 7+

  Fourteen-year-old Hudson has Asperger's Syndrome, and knows his brain works differently. This entertaining and thought-provoking story reveals that there is more than one way of looking at life and its problems.

• Car, Car, Truck, Jeep

  Author: Katrina Charman Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 0-5
  

  Putting a new slant on an old favourite, this colourful rhyming journey to the seaside is sung to the tune of Baa, Baa, Black Sheep and showcases vehicles and transport of all kinds. Joyful, noisy and exciting.

• Caramel Hearts

  Author: E R Murray
  Publisher: Alma Books
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  One day, 14-year-old Liv discovers recipes written in her mother's handwriting, and this sets her off on a journey towards self-discovery and reconciliation. A beautifully told story about what it takes to get through hard times.

• Cardboard Cowboys

  Author: Brian Conaghan
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 10+

  One day, 12-year-old Lenny meets Bruce, a homeless man, and they strike up an unusual friendship. With the feel of a modern-day classic, this book will make readers cry but is also hysterically funny and life-affirming.

• Caribbean Dozen: Poems from Thirteen Caribbean Poets

  Author: Various Editor: John Agard and Grace Nichols
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 6+

  Legendary poets John Agard and Grace Nichols, both originally from the Caribbean, have compiled a lovely book of poems featuring their own work alongside eleven others, forming a generous ‘Caribbean Dozen’ of wordsmiths.

• Car-Jacked

  Author: Ali Sparkes
  Publisher: OUP Oxford
  

  Ross McAllister has just robbed a bank, is on the run and must get to London with £100,000 by Wednesday or his brother will die. But when he steals a car, the last thing he expects is to find 12-year-old genius Jack in the back seat. Jack is shocked too, and even though he knows it's a bad idea, he decides to stay and help Ross. London is hundreds of miles a…

• Carnival of the Clocks

  Author: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Class One have all made paper lanterns shaped like clocks to celebrate the shortest day of the year, and the days becoming longer. A dyslexia-friendly, accessible book with striking illustrations.

  ---

  Mae gan bawb yn Nosbarth Un gloc llusern. Mae rhai yn grwn, rhai yn sgwâr. Mae rhai yn ffansi, rhai yn syml. Mae Dosbarth Un wedi'u gwneud nhw o bapur tusw a phri…

• Carnival of the Lost

  Author: Kieran Larwood Illustrator: Sam Usher
  Publisher: Faber
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9+

  When 'wolf-girl' Sheba's sold to a London carnival show, she finally feels like she's made some friends - but the gang soon find themselves enveloped in a Victorian mystery of missing children, clockwork creations and ruthless villains...

• Carrie and the Roller Boots

  Author: Lisa Thompson Illustrator: Jess Rose
  Publisher: Little Gems
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Carrie devises an elaborate roller-skating routine to perform at her school assembly, but she’s never roller-skated before and it’s much trickier than she thought. This delightful, illustrated chapter book about friendship and perseverance is ideal for dyslexic or reluctant readers. 

• Carrie's War

  Author: Nina Bawden
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 10+

  Inspired by Nina Bawden's own experiences of living as an evacuee in a Welsh mining valley as a child, Carrie's War is now considered a modern classic. Funny, sad and thought-provoking. 

• Carrying the Elephant: A Memoir of Love and Loss

  Author: Michael Rosen
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  Michael Rosen tells the story of his life in beautifully written short episodes, which give the reader a vivid glimpse into the author's personal life.

• Casander Darkbloom and the Threads of Power

  Author: PA Staff
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  When Cas discovers hemust defeat a powerfully evil Master of All, as the Foretold, he goes to the Wayward School tolearn to control his magical powers. Packed with themes of friendship, courage and kindness, and with good disability representation.  

• Casting the Gods Adrift

  Author: Geraldine McCaughrean
  Publisher: Galaxy
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8-12

  This is a journey back in time to the era of the ancient Egyptians, when religion and ritual were central to people's lives.

• Cat Chat

  Author: Dr Jess French Illustrator: Penelope Dullaghan
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 1-4
  

  If you have ever wondered what your cat is really thinking, then Cat Chat from expert vet and CBeebies presenter Dr Jess French is the perfect read. An insightful board book that looks at feline body language to help young pet owners figure out their furry friends.

• Cat is Sleepy

  Author: Satoshi Kitamura Illustrator: Satoshi Kitamura
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 0+

  Cat is determined to find somewhere comfortable and quiet to sleep... this is an ideal first board book for the under-fives with a perfect balance of story and illustration. Stylish, accessible, attractive and great fun.

• Cat Kid Comic Club

  Author: Dav Pilkey
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Lil' Petey the cat and Molly the tadpole have started the Cat Kid Comic Club - for kids that love to draw comics! This lovely, funny story about working together also has some great tips for aspiring illustrators and comic makers.

• Cat Kid Comic Club: Perspectives

  Author: Dav Pilkey
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  This clever story within a story teaches important lessons about perspective as well as a variety of literary and drawing techniques. 

• Cat on the Run: Episode 1: Cat of Death!

  Author: Aaron Blabey
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 7+

  This hilarious, action-packed comic bookis both a funny story with the relatable set-up of internet celebrity, and an astute take on cancel culture and social media. Presented in black and white, with highlights of red for a pop of colour, and short chunks of text, it’s a more accessible book for struggling readers, and should have great appeal for reluctant…

• Catch That Crocodile

  Author: Anushka Ravishankar Illustrator: Pulak Biswas
  Publisher: Tara Publishing
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  This is a catchy rhyming, rhythmic story of village life interrupted by the appearance of a wily crocodile.

• Catch That Chicken!

  Author: Atinuke Illustrator: Angela Brooksbank
  Publisher: Candlewick Press
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 6+

  A joyful, vibrant romp through a Nigerian village in the company of Lami, the best chicken-catcher in the business. A great book for reading to groups, as well as sharing at home.

• Catch That Egg!

  Author: Lucy Rowland and Anna Chernyshova
  Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  Floppit is a bunny with very big, bouncy feet. Unfortunately, he is just too boisterous for his friends looking after little ones. Is he too bouncy to be around? A lovely one to share with older siblings that may have a new baby in the house.

• Catch Us if You Can-Can!

  Author: Alex T Smith
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  The stars of Alex T. Smith’s dinner-time crime Egg are back in a sparkly sequel.

• Catch!

  Author: Trish Cooke Illustrator: Ken Wilson-Max
  Publisher: Alanna Max
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Kiona and Mummy are playing catch, but Kiona is finding it tricky. Everything she tries to catch is either too big, too small or too hard or too soft. Luckily, Mummy knows there is a very special something Kiona can always catch...  

• Catching Fire

  Author: Suzanne Collins
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  This second book of the Hunger Games trilogy sees Katniss and Peeta as the first ever joint Victors of a bloodthirsty and mercilessly gruesome reality TV show.

• Catching Teller Crow

  Author: Ambelin Kwaymullina and Ezekiel Kwaymullina
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  A beautifully told, outstanding and thought-provoking novel. Themes of race and the treatment of Aboriginal peoples interweave with those of grief and letting go, but without ever becoming overbearing, with the focus on the town's mystery. 

• Cats Ahoy!

  Author: Peter Bently Illustrator: Jim Field
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Cats’ favourite thing in the world is fish. So when Alfonso the cat overhears a two old men discussing the imminent arrival of a boat,  carrying its largest ever catch, he hatches a plan. This book is very funny – fishtastic in fact!

• Cats and Curses

  Author: Elen Caldecott
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  This is the fourth book in the Marsh Road Mysteries series, although there is no need to read them in order. Andrew, Piotr, Minnie, Flora and Sylvie are great characters and this is an exciting adventure that will be devoured in a few sittings.

• Cat's Cradle

  Author: Julia Golding
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  This latest historical adventure following the fortunes of the feisty heroine Cat Royal will not disappoint fans of the series

• Cats React to Science Facts

  Author: Izzi Howell
  Publisher: Wayland
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Izzi Howell's genius book combines genuinely astonishing scientific facts with hilarious and cute cat pictures: a perfect book for sparking conversations (and with "aww" appeal).

• Cats: Understanding Your Whiskered Friend

  Author: Dr John Bradshaw Illustrator: Clare Elsom
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 6-10
  Reading age: 7-10

  This enjoyable read is a mix of a fictional story about Libby the cat and her life with Miss Lewis, intertwined with facts and information about cats from author Dr John Bradshaw, a biologist with a special interest in cats.

• Catwad: It's Me

  Author: Jim Benton
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Catwad, a grumpy blue cat, is best friends with Blurmp, a relentlessly happy and pretty stupid orange cat. Togther they navigate the nitty gritty of life in the fine tradition of comic-book cats such as Garfield and Grumpy Cat. A really fun comic, very accessible and easy to read.

• Catherine Certitude

  Author: Patrick Modiano Translator: William Rodarmor Illustrator: Jean-Jacques Sempe
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  A woman in New York reminisces about growing up in Paris with her father.

• Catherine's Story

  Author: Genevieve Moore Illustrator: Karin Littlewood
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  This is the story of Catherine, a very special little girl who also happens to have severe additional needs.

• Caught in the Crossfire

  Author: Alan Gibbons
  Publisher: Orion Children's Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Oakfield is a town of white and Asian ghettos. The Patriotic Party wants a whites-only England and to this end incites race war.

• Cave Baby

  Author: Julia Donaldson Illustrator: Emily Gravett
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Cave Baby is restless and sets about amusing himself. But he is warned that being naughty will mean 'A mammoth's going to throw you to the big brown bear!'

• Century

  Author: Sarah Singleton
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  Mercy and her sister Charity have never questioned their daily routine, each day unfolding exactly as the next

• Ceri & Deri: Get Your Skates On

  Author: Max Low
  Publisher: Graffeg
  Reading age: 4-5

  Dai the Duck finds skateboarding hard and is ready to stop, but then he meets skateboarder Barabara the Bear. A funny book that's ideal to share with young children, particularly those who may be quick to give up when they find things difficult.

• Ceri & Deri: No Time for Clocks

  Author: Max Low
  Publisher: Graffeg
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  This colourful picture book in the Ceri & Deri series combines straightforward language and simple illustrations to effectively introduce young children to the tricky concept of time.

• Ceri & Deri: The Treasure Map

  Author: Max Low
  Publisher: Graffeg
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  Ceri the Cat and her best friend Deri the Dog are on the hunt for treasure. Max Low’s illustrations are cartoony and comic and this gentle story is perfect for those who want to avoid too much peril or drama. 

• Ceri & Deri: The Very Smelly Telly Show

  Author: Max Low
  Publisher: Graffeg
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Best friends Ceri and Deri can't seem to pull Dai the duck away from his telly to play with them - until they find a smelly old cardboard box to make their own show with!

• Ceri and Deri: Young Whippersnapper

  Author: Max Low
  Publisher: Graffeg
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  This entertaining tale in a vibrant series of picture books for young readers features best friends Ceri the cat and Deri the dog. While out for a stroll with their pal Dai the duck, they meet elderly Davey Dog, who is laden down with heavy shopping bags. The three friends offer to help Davey carry his bags home and Ceri comes up with the clever idea of whee…

• Cezanne and the Apple Boy

  Author: Laurence Anholt
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  This picture book tells the story of the young Paul Cezanne. He visits his father where he lives in a little town in the mountains.

• Cinder

  Author: Marisa Meyer
  Publisher: Puffin Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  This extremely imaginative take on the Cinderella story sees the heroine step out from behind the prince and forge her own destiny

• Cinderelephant

  Author: Emma Dodd
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Prince Trunky is looking for a bride and all the girls in the neighbourhood are invited to his ball - but poor Cinderelephant is stuck at home cooking and cleaning for the Warty Sisters.

• Cinderella

  Author: Nick Sharratt and Stephen Tucker
  Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  Reading age: 3-5

  Flaps to lift on every page bring the classic story of Cinderella to life in this funny and lively rhyming picture book that is full of joyful chaos and contemporary details.

• Cinderella of the Nile

  Author: Beverley Naidoo Illustrator: Marjan Vafaeian
  Publisher: Tiny Owl
  Interest age: 5-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Rhodopis is a rarity in the north of Greece, with her red hair and blue eyes. Soon, she is kidnapped and turned into a slave. When the Pharoah finds a slipper, he declares he will marry the owner. This version of the Cinderella story is based on an Egyptian tale.

• Cinderella: The Fairytale Files

  Author: Alan Durant Illustrator: Ross Collins
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 8+

  The household of King Magnus the Magnificent has been thrown into turmoil. Prince Charming has proposed to a mystery woman, the unknown, but very beautiful, Cinderella.

• Cinderella’s Sister and the Big Bad Wolf

  Author: Lorraine Carey and Migy Blanco
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  In a creative retelling of the Cinderella story, it's Cinderella's third ugly sister sister Gertie, who is the nice one. Gertie really wants to go to the ball, but there's no way that Mrs Ugly will let her go unless she can prove she's just as horrible as they are.

• Cinderella's Bum

  Author: Nicholas Allan
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Did you know that Santa has a big bum? And what about Cinderella? Brilliant bottoms of all shapes and sizes make an appearence in this quirky picture book.

• Cinnamon

  Author: Neil Gaiman Illustrator: Divya Srinivasan
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 5-7
  Reading age: 6-8

  A very special, haunting and mythical tale with lush, vibrant images, this new Neil Gaiman fable illustrated by Divya Srinivasan is as typically unusual and compelling as you would expect.

• Circle

  Author: Mac Barnett Illustrator: Jon Klassen
  Publisher: Candlewick Press
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Circle, Square and Triangle are friends and each has a distinctive personality. Beautifully designed, funny and a little bit spooky, this is a wonderful book to share with young children, particularly those with a spirit of adventure.

• Circle Rolls

  Author: Barbara Kanninen Illustrator: Serge Bloch
  Publisher: Phaidon
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  The force of a tiny man’s sneeze sends Circle rolling off on an eventful adventure, where he encounters a variety of other shapes. This humorous picture book is an ideal way to introduce shape and colour to young children.

• Circus Maximus: Race to the Death

  Author: Annelise Gray
  Publisher: Zephyr
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 6-8

  In the exhilarating but brutal world of chariot racing the rewards are huge but so is the death-toll. This is the background to Dido’s quest for victory and justice; she must win, her life depends on it.

• Circus Mirandus

  Author: Cassie Beasley
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 8

  Beautifully crafted and with the feel of an old fashioned fairy tale, Circus Mirandus is a wonderful, imaginative story of magic and fantasy, but also the power of  love and friendship.

• City of Ashes

  Author: Cassandra Clare
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  In the second installment of the Mortal Instruments series, Clary finds herself falling deeper into New York City's underworld of demons, werewolves, vampires and Shadowhunters.

• City of Bones

  Author: Cassandra Clare
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 9+

  When Clary visits a nightclub, she discovers that she is one of the Shadowhunters - a group of demon-hunters living in a world of vampires, werewolves and warlocks.

• City of Ghosts

  Author: Bali Rai
  Publisher: Corgi
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 11+

  Based around the British massacre of Indians at Amritsar in 1919, Rai’s seventh novel for young adults moves seamlessly through time, place, belief and genre.

• City of Ghosts

  Author: Victoria Schwab
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 10-13
  Reading age: 11+

  Instead of summer at the beach, Cassidy’s parents have dragged her on a trip to Edinburgh to film their new TV show. This wouldn’t be so bad, except that since her near-death experience last year, Cass has been able to see and feel ghosts whenever they’re near –and Edinburgh is one of the most haunted cities in the world.

  Cassidy can cross the ‘veil’ into a …

• City of Rust

  Author: Gemma Fowler
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 10-14
  Reading age: 9+

  Engineer Railey and her bio-robotic gecko Atti dream of winning the big drone races - but when a bounty hunter comes looking for them, they're forced to flee into Earth's trash-filled atmosphere, finding themselves in a race against time to save the world...

• City of Stolen Magic

  Author: Nazneen Ahmed Pathak Illustrator: Sandhya Prabhat
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  It is 1855 and the practice of magic is being eradicated from India under British rule. Many magical folk are going missing, and when her mother is kidnapped, Chompa journeys to London to get her back. A thrilling, imaginative tale, bursting with magic, friendship and betrayal.

• Clackers: Little Witch

  Author: Luana Rinaldo
  Publisher: Random House Inc.
  Interest age: 0+
  Reading age: 4+

  Little Witch is brewing up some special Halloween punch and all of her friends are coming to help

• Claire: Justice Ninja

  Author: Joe Brady Illustrator: Kate Ashwin
  Publisher: The Phoenix
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  This fun graphic novel has 12 relatable short stories for young readers to enjoy, with a young hero who intends to right the world of wrongs: whether it's litter in the street or your mum eating all the pepperoni off a pizza. 

• Clara Button and the Magical Hat Day

  Author: Amy De La Haye Illustrator: Emily Sutton
  Publisher: V&A Publishing
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  Clara Button loves hats and when her older brother Ollie breaks her favourite, Mum takes them on a special hat day out

• Clare and her Captain

  Author: Michael Morpurgo Illustrator: Catherine Rayner
  Publisher: Conkers (Barrington Stoke)
  Interest age: 7-11
  Reading age: 7+

  While on holiday in Devon, Clare strikes up a touching friendship with an elderly man and his beloved horse. This moving tale of loneliness, loss and friendship is beautifully illustrated and particularly suited to dyslexic readers.

• Clarice Bean Spells Trouble

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: Hachette
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  Clarice Bean is very bad at spelling. She thinks it is far better to be able to mend a hem using a stapler, or jump out of a moving helicopter safely.

• Clarice Bean, That's Me

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  Clarice Bean gives us a snapshot of her life and family in the book that launched a bestselling series.

• Clarice Bean: Don’t Look Now

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: Hachette Children's Group
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  Clarice is facing her biggest, baddest worries by writing them all down in a notebook. But a worry has come along that she hadn't even thought about. As ever, Child tackles all this with humour, fun and some fabulously stylish illustrations.

• Clarice Bean: Think Like an Elf

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 8-10
  Reading age: 8+

  Even if you’ve never read a Clarice Bean book before, you will fall in love with this brilliantly narrated story of thinking about others, doing kind things and believing that your biggest Christmas wishes can come true. 

• Clash

  Author: Colin Mulhern
  Publisher: Catnip Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  A tense, aggressive, but moral tale of boys on the brink of adulthood

• Class Six and the Eel of Fortune

  Author: Sally Prue Illustrator: Loretta Schauer
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 5-12
  Reading age: 7+

  Class Six and the Eel of Fortune keeps up the irreverent and fast-paced nature of the first book, while also ratcheting up the hilarity. 

• Class Two at the Zoo

  Author: Julia Jarman Illustrator: Lynne Chapman
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Jarman's richly comical poem of Class Two's encounter with an anaconda is reminiscent of Belloc's Cautionary Tales.

• Claude All at Sea

  Author: Alex T Smith
  Publisher: Hodder
  Interest age: 4-6
  

  When Claude leaves the bath taps running and floods the house, he finds himself swept out to sea and in trouble with Nigel, the gigantic sea monster. Claude's resourcefulness and joie de vivre will appeal to both youngsters and adults.

• Claude in the City

  Author: Alex T Smith
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  Claude is no ordinary dog - he leads an extraordinary life! When Mr and Mrs Shinyshoes set off for work, Claude heads for the city, where pigeons, beret shops and robberies await.

• Claude in the Spotlight

  Author: Alex T Smith
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 6+

  Alex T Smith's adorable Claude - a small plump dog in a stylish red sweater and beret - is back for a new adventure.

• Claude: Going For Gold

  Author: Alex T Smith
  Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7-9

  It's The Stonking Great Big Sports Day, and returning hero Claude is itching to take part! Hilarious and beautifully illustrated, Claude: Going For Gold is great fun and will carry you off in a gleeful adventure.

• Clay

  Author: David Almond
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 9+

  The scariest thing in Davie's life is the brutish leader of the gang of lads from the next village – until, that is, the arrival of Stephen Rose.

• Clean Break

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

  Everyone adores Dad, with his glamorous ponytail and his wonderful storytelling gifts. Even Em, though he is not her real dad. His Christmas presents, which include a real (well, probably) emerald ring for Em, are the best ever too.

• Clean Getaway

  Author: Nic Stone
  Publisher: Knights Of
  Interest age: 10-14
  Reading age: 9+

  One day, Scoob's Grandma turns up at his house and invites him on a road trip - retracing the steps of a trip she took with his late grandpa. This is a satisfying, timeless read about a family’s history which intersects with the American civil rights movement, and reminds readers of the impact of racism and intolerance.

• Clean Up!

  Author: Nathan Bryon Illustrator: Dapo Adeola
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 4-8
  

  Rocket loves visiting her Grammy and Grampy in the Caribbean, especially splashing in the waves with her cool surfing Grammy - but when Rocket finds a baby turtle washed up on the shore, tangled in plastic, she decides something must be done. It's time to clean up!

• Clem and Crab

  Author: Fiona Lumbers
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  Clem loves going to the beach and tries hard to keep the coastline clean, but soon realises she needs the help and enthusiasm of her classmates, too. An uplifting and inspiring picture book that demonstrates that lots of small actions can have a big impact. The uplifting story is accompanied by beautiful illustrations, which bring the seascape to life.

• Clementine and Mungo

  Author: Sarah Dyer
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Clementine and Mungo may be pigs, but they ask just the sort of awkward questions typical of small children.

• Cleo's Alphabet Book

  Author: Stella Blackstone Illustrator: Caroline Mockford
  Publisher: Barefoot Books
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 2+

  • Join Cleo the cat and learn your ABC!

  • Together, you can guess the word which goes with each letter.

  • This is an imaginative and playful way to explore the letters of the alphabet.

• Cleo's Counting Book

  Author: Stella Blackstone Illustrator: Caroline Mockford
  Publisher: Barefoot Books
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 2+

  • Cleo the cat counts from one to ten and back again.

  • You will meet lots of friends with Cleo in this playful adventure.

  • This book is brimming with bright colours with a fun use of numbers!

• Clever Cakes

  Author: Michael Rosen Illustrator: Ashley King
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  This beautiful book of two fairy tales by Michael Rosen in the Little Gems series is written in a dyslexia-friendly format and is perfect for young readers embarking on their independent reading journey.

• Clicks: How to be your Best Self Online

  Author: Natasha Devon Illustrator: Rubyetc
  Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  Friendly and practical, this guide to navigating online life and its joys and perils is a must-have for secondary pupils.

• Cliffhanger

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  A salutary and funny tale about not giving up from Jacqueline Wilson.

• Clifftoppers: The Arrowhead Moor Adventure

  Author: Fleur Hitchcock
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  This rip-roaring page turner about a group of strongminded young sleuths is reminiscent of Enid Blyton’s Famous Five series. Bursting with intrigue and excitement, it is ideal for confident young readers who enjoy traditional, wholesome adventure tales.

• Climate Action

  Author: Georgina Stevens Illustrator: Katie Rewse
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 8+

  This superb illustrated book is packed full of important information about the causes and effects of climate change, along with ideas about what we can do to help.

• Climate Rebels

  Author: Ben Lerwill
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  An inspiring collection of climate activists from all over the world, perfect for older primary school children. It’s the ideal way to feel informed about what’s going on now, and will have young readers thinking about they can help in their own communities.

• Clip-Clop

  Author: Nicola Smee
  Publisher: Boxer Books
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Cat, Dog, Pig and Duck all want a ride on Mr Horse. Once on board, they want to go faster and faster.. but will that lead to disaster?

• Clive and His Hats

  Author: Jessica Spanyol
  Publisher: Child's Play International
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Clive loves his hats, and he has a hat to suit every situation imaginable. This funny book with its colourful illustrations and jaunty story helps little ones look at which clothes (and hats) to wear when - from rainy days to cosy bedtimes.

• Clockwise to Titan

  Author: Elon Dann
  Publisher: Hot Key
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Having escaped from the Institute and its brutal watchdogs, Mo, Harete and The Moth must reach the border of the Other country.

• Clockwork

  Author: Philip Pullman Illustrator: Peter Bailey
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 9+

  Apprentice clock-maker Karl must craft a new figure for the great clock in town - but he is exceedingly short on inspiration.

• Close Your Pretty Eyes

  Author: Sally Nicholls
  Publisher: Marion Lloyd Books
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  Olivia is moving into her sixteenth home. Her previous homes have been cruel, dull, frightening and awkward - but never haunted.

• Cloth Lullaby: the woven life of Louise Bourgeois

  Author: Amy Novesky Illustrator: Isabelle Arsenault
  Publisher: Abrams
  Interest age: 5-9
  Reading age: 6+

  This beautiful picture book is a biography of 20th-century artist Louise Bourgeois. It tells the story of her childhood, and its influence on her work, with poetic language and expressive drawings.

• Cloud Boy

  Author: Marcia Williams
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Angie's affection for her friend turns to frustration as he misses some of their planned get-togethers due to apparent headaches. But could it be something more serious? A touching story told with childlike innocence, a lightness of touch and gentle humour.

• Cloud Busting

  Author: Malorie Blackman
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 8+

  Shortlisted for the 2004 Nestlé Smarties Book Prize (age 6-8 category), an exploration of an unlikely friendship between two very different boys.

• Cloud Forest

  Author: Victoria Turnbull
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 6+

  Victoria Turnbull’s visionary art in this book of few words is really the star of the show, depicting magical lands of soft imagination and a dreamlike sense of togetherness, as well as the grief that the little monkey feels when Umpa is gone. 

• Cloud Tea Monkeys

  Author: Mal Peet and Elspeth Graham Illustrator: Juan Wijngaard
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  Tashi's mother is an impoverished tea-picker, and when she becomes ill, the little girl tries to continue her mother's job.

• Cloudland

  Author: John Burningham
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 7+

  On the way home from a day spent high in the mountains, Albert trips and falls off into the clouds. His parents are very sad. Fortunately the Cloud Children come to his rescue...

• Clover Moon

  Author: Jacqueline Wilson
  Publisher: Penguin
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Jacqueline Wilson has set her latest story in Victorian London. When Clover Moon receives one beating too many from her evil stepmother, she decides to set off on an adventure, which proves both funny and sad - hooking readers right to the end.

• Cluck Cluck Duck: Lift the Flaps

  Author: Mama Makes Books Illustrator: Rachael Saunders
  Publisher: Mama Makes Books
  

  Cluck Cluck Duck is part of the light-hearted “Funny Farm” series. Just like Tractor Tractor, the title combines humour and interaction with some fun and subtle early learning, as well as a wider social angle.

• Clyde

  Author: Jim Benton
  Publisher: Yoe Books
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 6-9

  Fans of Dog Man and Captain Underpants will adore Jim Benton's fast paced, clearly laid out and short comic: the humour is fast paced, zany and just the right kind of surreal to appeal to primary school kids looking for laughs.

• Cock-a-doodle-doo! Farmyard Hullabaloo

  Author: Giles Andreae Illustrator: David Wojtowycz
  Publisher: Hachette
  Interest age: 2-6
  Reading age: 5+

  Fun to read aloud, each character is introduced with an enchanting rhyme which is accompanied by vibrant, colourful illustrations.

• Cockatoos

  Author: Quentin Blake
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 2+

  The eccentric and absent-minded Professor Dupont is the proud but worried owner of ten cockatoos.

• Code Name Kingfisher

  Author: Liz Kessler
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  In Nazi-occupied Amsterdam in 1942, Hannie joins the Resistance. In the modern day, Liv is trying to cope with bullies at school. Historical fiction of the highest order – heart-breaking, thought-provoking and vital.

• Code Name Verity

  Author: Elizabeth Wein
  Publisher: Electric Monkey
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  Two young women become unlikely best friends during WWII, until one is captured by the Gestapo...

• Codebusters

  Author: Dan Metcalf Illustrator: Gary Cherrington
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Education
  Interest age: 7-10
  Reading age: 7-9

  This pacey illustrated chapter book for confident young readers highlights the importance of friendship and remaining true to yourself. With brainteasers to solve throughout, it will particularly appeal to those with an interest in maths, puzzles and codes.

• Cogheart

  Author: Peter Bunzl Illustrations by Becca Stadtlander
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 10+

  This ambitious debut is set in 1896, but in an alternative history - almost steampunk - with clockwork servants, silver airships and mechanical animals. Expect thrills and mystery, but also some deep messages about what it is to live and be happy.

• Colin and Lee: Carrot and Pea

  Author: Morag Hood
  Publisher: Two Hoots
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Colin is a carrot, and Lee is a pea. An amusing and deceptively simple look at friendship and difference, this is a lovely book for young readers.

• Colin the Cart Horse

  Author: Gavin Puckett Illustrator: Tor Freeman
  Publisher: Faber & Faber
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 8+

  Colin the carthorse has lived a happy, if predictable, life on the same farm for many years. He works hard, eats plenty of tasty hay and turns it into the very best manure which can be spread on the fields and produce the most delicious crops.

• Colour Away Your Worries

  Author: Leslie Ironside and Haia Ironside
  Publisher: Buster Books
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 6+

  This drawing and colouring book is a very gentle way to encourage children to work through their worries and let go of stress. It also happens to be a lot of fun.

• Colour Gallery

  Author: Isabel Otter Illustrator: Sophie Ledesma
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Join Gigi the giraffe and her students as they explore a gallery, learning about colour and art.

• Colours

  Author: Pantone Inc
  Publisher: Abramsappleseed
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 2+

  This fun book illustrates all the colours of the rainbow with simple, bright pictures.

• Colours

  Author: Susan Steggall
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  An interactive and fun way to teach young children about colours and vehicles - and learn new vocabulary.

• COLOURS: A Walk in the Countryside

  Author: Rosalind Beardshaw
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  A young girl and boy play in the countryside, finding ladybirds and butterflies, birds and flowers, before sitting down for a nice picnic. Finally, after a lovely day spotting animals, they sit down beside the river and gaze up at a wonderful rainbow.

• Collected Poems for Children

  Author: Ted Hughes Illustrator: Raymond Briggs
  Publisher: Faber & Faber
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  All Hughes readers might expect the crows, horses and sheep they encounter here, but the haggis/bagpipe hybrid might be more of a surprise!

• Collins Pocket English Dictionary

  Author: HarperCollins
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 6+

  Collins Pocket English Dictionary is the most up-to-date, information-packed dictionary of its size available.The feedback from the 2010 Letterbox Club Green Pilot showed that having your own copy of a pocket dictionary was both useful and empowering. Good for homework and school projects.

• Collins World Atlas

  Author: HarperCollins
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 5+

  This fully up-to-date world atlas contains over 70 pages of highly accurate reference maps. Key statistics, facts and flags for every country of the world are included in the introductory section giving readers quick access to essential facts. Where is Libya? How big is Japan? Where is that Olympic gold medallist from? Children can find the answers here.

• Come All You Little Persons

  Author: John Agard Illustrator: Jessica Courtney-Tickle
  Publisher: Faber & Faber
  Interest age: 4-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Captivating and vibrant illustrations complement the lyrical text in this joyous, inclusive story by celebrated poet John Agard. Perfect for reading aloud at bedtime, this book celebrates childhood and the natural world in all its rich diversity.

• Come Away from the Water, Shirley

  Author: John Burningham
  Publisher: Red Fox
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 5+

  John Burningham’s simple yet sophisticated account of a trip to the seaside is both a masterly drawing of grumpy Mum and Dad and a vibrant depiction of Shirley’s magical inner world. Fantastic.

• Come Clean

  Author: Terri Paddock
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  An unflinching examination of love, loss and sibling intimacy, which is both brutal and compelling

• Come into This Poem

  Author: Tony Mitton Illustrator: Caroline Holden
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  This latest anthology is a complete mixture: from the fun and energetic to the dreamy and ethereal

• Come on Life: Highs, Lows and How to Live Your Best Teen Life

  Author: Nikki Lilly Illustrator: Julia Broughton
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 10-14
  Reading age: 9+

  Written by teenage vlogger and campaigner Nikki Lilly, this inspirational book about growing up highlights some of the many pressures young people face and provides thoughtful advice about how to navigate through these challenges.

• Come to School Too, Blue Kangaroo

  Author: Emma Chichester Clark
  Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 5+

  Lily thinks Blue Kangaroo might be nervous about starting school – but in fact he can’t wait to have fun and make some new friends.

• Comic Adventures of Boots

  Author: Satoshi Kitamura
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  With stylish and witty endpapers of Boots's feverish imagination at work, this is a delightful new addition to Kitamura's growing canon of cat literature.

• Coming to England

  Author: Floella Benjamin Illustrator: Michael Frith
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  This moving and insightful memoir from much-loved writer and presenter Floella Benjamin documents her childhood, from her birth in Trinidad in 1949 to her move to Britain in 1960 as part of the Windrush generation.

• Coming to England

  Author: Floella Benjamin Illustrator: Diane Ewen
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  This picture book autobiography explores the early life of Floella Benjamin, celebrated writer, actress and television presenter. It begins in her childhood home of Trinidad and charts her move to England in 1960 as part of the Windrush generation.

• Compton Valance: The Most Powerful Boy in the Universe

  Author: Matt Brown
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  TV presenter Matt Brown's bonkers debut plays with form and timelines almost to the brink of confusion. It will take a fairly sophisticated reader to keep up!

• Computer Ghost

  Author: Malorie Blackman
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 8-12
  Reading age: 9+

  When Jade starts to receive e-mail messages from her father two months after his death, she clings to the idea that he is watching over her.

• Concentr8

  Author: William Sutcliffe
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  A great book and a thought-provoking social commentary.

• Confessions of an Imaginary Friend

  Author: Michelle Cuevas
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 8+

  Written as if it is a memoir by 'Jacques Papier', this short chapter book is the story of a child's imaginary friend - from the imaginary friend's viewpoint. Philosophical, sad and slightly bizarre.

• Conspiracy of Ravens

  Author: Leah Moore / John Reppion / Sally Jane Thompson
  Publisher: Dark Horse Comics / Penguin Random House
  Interest age: 10-14
  Reading age: 9+

  Anne Ravenhall is just trying to get through her exams at boarding school - until a mysterious aunt leaves her a mysterious locket. Soon, she's caught up in a roaring supernatural adventure...

• Constable & Toop

  Author: Gareth P Jones
  Publisher: Hot Key Books
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 10+

  A Victorian funeral parlour is the setting for this exciting mystery that blends comedy with the dark, spooky and supernatural.

• Constance in Peril

  Author: Ben Manley Illustrator: Emma Chichester Clark
  Publisher: Two Hoots
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Ben Manley and Emma Chichester Clark’s absolutely delightful story about a much-loved toy will strike a chord of recognition in all children who may have a "Constance" doll of their own. Funny, charming and offbeat. 

• Construction Vehicles

  Author: Marie Fordacq Illustrator: Peggy Nille Translator: Twirl from French
  Publisher: Twirl
  Interest age: 1-3
  

  The animals are building a house: they need dump trucks, hydraulic drills, cement mixers and much, much more. This is sure to be a hit with vehicle-obsessed children!

• Contact

  Author: Malorie Blackman
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  

  Imagine a future where physical contact between humans is illegal. No hand holding and no hugs to make you feel better when you're feeling sad.

• Contender: The Chosen

  Author: Taran Matharu
  Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
  Interest age: 12-15
  Reading age: 11+

  This is the first book in a trilogy from the bestselling author of the Summoner series.
  Plenty of gore, and nail-biting jeopardy punctuate a mystery adventure that has many elements of a video game, so will appeal to gamers as well as lovers of fantasy fiction.

• Conversion

  Author: Katherine Howe
  Publisher: Oneworld Publications
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 8+

  This is a scary and compelling read. Brilliantly written and full of suspense, it also has romance, friendship and some intriguing history. A definite page turner!

• Cookie

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

  Dark themes of domestic abuse and self-esteem are sensitively tackled in this redemptive tale of biscuits and rabbits.

• Cookie (and the Most Annoying Boy in the World)

  Author: Konnie Huq
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press (Bonnier)
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Funny, ambitious Cookie wants to go on Brainbusters and get a pet, but the most annoying boy in the world keeps upsetting her plans. Can they ever be friends? Funny, loud, opinionated and sometimes thoughtless, Cookie is a relatable character.

• Cool Nature

  Author: Amy-Jane Beer
  Publisher: Pavilion
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9+

  This captivating reference guide to the natural world contains just the right amount of material to inform and educate, but not overwhelm the reader. Each double-page spread focusses on a single topic and there are plenty of experiments to try at home. Essential reading for anyone with an interest in nature.

• Coping with Chloe

  Author: Rosalie Warren
  Publisher: Phoenix Yard Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 8+

  Twelve-year-old Anna's sister was killed a year ago in a road accident. Anna is convinced her sister still inhabits part of her brain, talking though her.

• Copy Cat

  Author: Mark Birchall
  Publisher: Child's Play
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Whatever Dog does, Cat wants to do too - but soon Dog begins to feel annoyed...

• Copy That, Copy Cat: Inventions Inspired by Animals

  Author: Katrina Tangen Illustrator: Giulia Orecchia
  Publisher: Barefoot Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  Reading age: 2-3

  The rhyming text intentionally leads the child towards a wrong answer every time, and then the real answer is revealed under the large flap. With repeated reading, this might mean that children will learn the correct answer, remember it, and then get the pleasure of being right when they revisit the book. 

• Copycat Science

  Author: Mike Barfield Illustrator: Mike Barfield
  Publisher: QED
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Full of fascinating facts, this compact non-fiction comic book provides a superb introduction to over 40 key STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) figures from throughout history.

• Coraline

  Author: Neil Gaiman Illustrator: Dave McKean
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's Books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 11+

  One day Coraline unlocks a mysterious door that opens onto another world, a twisted parody of Coraline's own dimension.

• Coram Boy

  Author: Jamila Gavin
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Coram Boy is the story of Toby, saved from an African ship as a child, and Aaron, the illegitimate son of the heir to a great estate.

• Corby Flood

  Author: Paul Stewart Illustrator: Chris Riddell
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  To cheer up their father, who is facing professional ruin, Corby Flood and her family take a cruise. But Corby uncovers a mystery: what is that strange sound coming from the hold?

• Cordelia Codd: Not Just the Blues

  Author: Claire O'Brien
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  An entertaining, well-written and warm-hearted story about dealing positively with life's unexpected problems.

• Corey’s Rock

  Author: Sita Brahmachari Illustrator: Jane Ray
  Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
  Interest age: 7-10
  Reading age: 8+

  Isla and her family move to the Orkney Islands from Edinburgh after Isla’s five-year-old brother Corey passes away. Soon, she learns all about selkies and the myths behind them... Sensitive, sad and ultimately uplifting, with beautiful illustrations. 

• Cornelia and the Jungle Machine

  Author: Nora Brech Translator: Don Bartlett
  Publisher: Gecko Press
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Cornelia has moved into a big, gothic and creaky new house with her parents, and she’s not happy about it. Full of utterly amazing artwork, this masterpiece has few words and is all about the power of imagination.

• Corpse Talk: Dead Good Storytellers

  Author: Adam Murphy Lisa Murphy
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 10-13
  Reading age: 11+

  Corpse Talk, the 'show that brings the dead famous to life' is a highly amusing and clever graphic novel/comic style book that introduces the reader to historical figures in a fresh and funny way.

  In this episode, storyteller and host Adam Murphy has resurrected 15 real-life writers from the grave to chat to. Each interviewee recounts snippets of their lives…

• Corpse Talk: Ground-Breaking Scientists

  Author: Adam and Lisa Murphy
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 9-13
  Reading age: 9+

  A fun and funky graphic exploration of some of the greatest scientists you’ve ever heard of – and maybe a few you haven’t!

• Corpse Talk: Ground-Breaking Women

  Author: Adam & Lisa Murphy
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 8-11
  Reading age: 8+

  Adam Murphy interviews 18 amazing women from history. With a casual, chatty style and colourful comic-strip illustrations, this unique, accessible and slightly macabre series is packed full of humour and fascinating facts.

• Corpse Talk: Season 1

  Author: Adam and Lisa Murphy
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Corpse Talk, the 'show that brings the dead famous to life' is a highly amusing and clever comic style history book that introduces the reader to historical figures in a fresh and funny way.

• Corpse Talk: Season 2

  Author: Adam and Lisa Murphy
  Publisher: David Fickling Books
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  The second instalment of this book sees Adam talk to the corpses of Guy Fawkes, William Shakespeare and Queen Victoria.

• Cosima Unfortunate Steals a Star

  Author: Laura Noakes Illustrator: Flavia Sorrentino
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9-11

  Cosima and her fellow ‘Unfortunates’ forge a plan to expose a villain through a jewellery heist. Funny but also thought-provoking, it’s a mystery adventure with a difference.

• Cosmic

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

  Long-legged Liam makes a giant leap for boy-kind by competing with a group of adults for the chance to go into space. Is Liam the best boy for the job?

• Cosmic Disco

  Author: Grace Nichols Illustrator: Alice Wright
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7-9

  A poetry collection from the Guyana-born poet Grace Nichols that cover themes of seasons, planets and the cosmos for younger children, but also contains something for everyone to enjoy. 

• Could a Whale Swim to the Moon?...and other questions.

  Author: Camilla de la Bédoyère and Aleksei Bitskoff
  Publisher: QED
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  Learn all about the blue whale with these funny facts! A great read for young, enquiring minds.

• Count

  Author: Melvin Burgess Illustrator: Chris Mould
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 8-9
  Reading age: 9-11

  Brandon boasts about everything and claims that he can count to ten million, even though it will take him almost a year. As he begins, the numbers take on a life of their own, emitting a shimmery light as they wait in line to be counted. The higher Brandon counts, the more his life is on public view, and he becomes part of a media frenzy.

  This light-hearted,…

• Count to 100

  Author: Felicity Brooks Illustrator: Sophia Touliatou
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  Counting to 100 can be hard, but if you break it down and use fun objects to help you (like cars, flowers, swirling leaves and stars), you'll get to 100 in no time! This book is a great tool to help children who are ready to count past ten.

• Count with Little Fish

  Author: Lucy Cousins
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Lucy Cousins brings her bold and bright illustrations to a set of books for babies featuring fish. This sturdy board book counts from one to ten with brightly coloured fish on each page.

• Count with Maisy

  Author: Lucy Cousins
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  Young children will have fun counting from one to ten using familiar objects, such as pencils and fish.

• Counting

  Author: Alison Jay
  Publisher: Templar
  

  • Look carefully - there's more counting than you might think in this great book.

  • The design and illustration are really sophisticated.

  • This is a joy to look at - try Alison Jay's Alphabet booktoo.

• Counting Birds

  Author: Alice Melvin
  Publisher: Tate Publishing
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 7+

  This stylishly illustrated counting book from a Best New Illustrator, opens with a vibrant cockerel crowing to welcome the day and ends with a solitary barn owl flying off the page and slipping into the night. Perfect for learning how to count, as well as introducing children to a host of bird names, this rhyming text is great for reading aloud.

• Counting by 7s

  Author: Holly Goldberg Sloan
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Willow is a very gifted child that everyone finds a little disconcerting, when her parents are killed in a car accident those around her take care of her and their lives are changed forever.

• Counting Chickens

  Author: Polly Alakija
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  Tobi's colourful village life is captured in vivid detail in this charming counting story, perfect for sharing.

• Counting in Green 10 Little Ways to Help Our Big Planet

  Author: Hollis Kurman Illustrator: Barroux
  Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
  Interest age: 2-3
  

  A charming picture book suggesting ten practical ways to help the planet. A positive and simple introduction to the need for conservation for the very young.

• Counting Lions

  Author: Katie Cotton Illustrator: Stephen Walton
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Counting lions is a beautifully illustrated counting book with a strong conservation message. Beginning with one lion and ending with ten zebras, the text is used to carefully describe the behaviour of the animal. Stephen Walton's full page black and white illustrations show each animal in compelling detail. The illustrations and text combine to create a glo…

• Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson put Astronauts on the Moon

  Author: Helaine Becker Illustrator: Dow Phmiruk
  Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  The fascinating story of Katherine Johnson, who yearned to know about numbers and the universe, and ended up calculating the flight paths to the moon despite numerous obstacles. An inspiring picture book for children to dream big and work hard. 

• Counting Sheep

  Author: Michelle Robinson Illustrator: Nikki Dyson
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Sam the farm dog tries to settle the animals down at bedtime, but they are full of energy and in no mood for sleeping. An entertaining picture book which will help young readers develop their counting skills.

• Counting Stars

  Author: David Almond
  Publisher: Hachette
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 11+

  This evocative collection of short stories gives a clear insight into the experiences which lie behind David Almond's novels.

• Counting with a Ladybird

  Author: James Mitchem and Dawn Sirett Illustrator: Rachael Parfitt Hunt
  Publisher: Dorling Kindersley
  Interest age: 0-3
  

  On each page of this colourful book, one to ten animals march and waddle and sing their way through their various environments, helping young readers to learn their numbers. A clever yet accessible board book.

• Counting with Tiny Cat

  Author: Viviane Schwarz
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  Tiny Cat is counting balls of wool from 'None' through 'More' right up to 'Enough' in this beautiful and stylish picture book from the always-excellent Viviane Schwarz.

• Courage in a Poem: Poetry about empowerment

  Author: Various Illustrator: Annalise Barber Mariana Roldan Masha Manapov and Nabila Adani
  Publisher: Little Tiger
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 6+

  A fantastic collection of inspiring, accessible poems that will delight children with their messages of courage and empowerment.

• Courage Out Loud

  Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Daniel Gray-Barnett
  Publisher: Quarto (Wide Eyed Editions)
  Interest age: 6-12
  Reading age: 6+

  This inspiring and dynamic poetry collection from Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho is about courage in lots of different forms. Not only are there poems about courage – from facing a fear or setting a boundary to trying something new – it also guides children on how to be brave through poetry, whether that’s through performing a poem aloud or having a go at…

• Courtney

  Author: John Burnigham
  Publisher: Random House (Red Fox)
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 7+

  Here is another brilliant story depicting John Burningham's quirky humour and understanding of children, clearly evident in the language and wonderfully expressive pictures.

• Cowards

  Author: Marcus Sedgwick
  Publisher: CreateSpace
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  This literary non-fiction book tackles the difficult subject of conscientious objectors during the first World War, relating the true stories of men who believed it was wrong to kill even in times of war.

• Cowgirl

  Author: GR Gemin
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  

  Gemma's father is in prison, she is fighting constantly with her mother and brother, she's fallen in with the wrong crowd at school, money's tight and violence and theft is rife in her neighbourhood. Little does she know the transformation about to occur when Cowgirl Kate and her herd of cows enter her life.

• Cows Go Boo!

  Author: Steve Webb Illustrator: Fred Blunt
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 3-7
  

  Farmer George's irksome cows refuse to "moo". Instead, they play hide and seek and leap out with an almighty "BOO!" when he least expects it. With hidden cows to spot throughout, this hilarious and marvellous book is a delight to read aloud.

• Coyote Summer

  Author: Mimi Thebo
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  Jules has been sent in disgrace from her privileged London life to live on her aunt and uncle’s farm in Kansas for the summer - where she ends up rediscovering her love for dance through the eyes of a coyote. Her experiences may be unique, but Jules’s confusion about her place in the world will ring true with most teenagers.

• Coyote's Soundbite

  Author: John Agard Illustrator: Piet Grobler
  Publisher: Lantana
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Six Earth Goddesses call a meeting to discuss what is to be done about humans inflicting catastrophic environmental damage to the planet. Coyote, disguised as his wife, joins the meeting - and feels compelled to speak out.

• Cracks

  Author: Caroline Green
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  Set in a dystopian Britain of 2024, Cracks melds together disturbing echoes of 2012 with a lawless regime of terrorism and counter-terrorism.

• Crater Lake

  Author: Jennifer Killick
  Publisher: Firefly Press
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Lance and his friends aren't looking forward to the school trip to Crater Lake - for one thing, school bully Trent hasn't forgiven Lance for the incident at the start of Year Six. For another, they've just seen a man covered in blood at the side of the road warning them to run. And there's definitely something weird about their teachers... Spooky, thrilling …

• Crayon

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

  There's humour and vibrancy in this introduction to colour, which cleverly combines line and crayon drawings, photographs and different fonts to graphically portray the concept.

• Crazy About Cats

  Author: Owen Davey
  Publisher: Flying Eye Books
  Interest age: 7-11
  Reading age: 7+

  This beautifully produced hardback with great quality, thick paper pages isn't too long but has plenty to fascinate anyone even halfway interested in any catty creature, from lynx to lion.

• Crazy Classrooms

  Author: Paul Cookson
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9

  Both funny and observant, this is a fabulous collection of poems by successful performance poet Paul Cookson.

• Crazy Hair

  Author: Neil Gaiman Illustrator: Dave McKean
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 7+

  Originating in a distant bad-hair day of Gaiman's, this short poem from 2005 is rejuvenated with McKean's distinctive and inventive images.

• Crazy Mayonnaisy Mum

  Author: Julia Donaldson Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  There is a poem to appeal to everyone in this thoughtful and fun collection

• Creature Features

  Author: Natasha Durley
  Publisher: Big Picture Press
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  This large format book about nature features tough card pages full of brightly illustrated animals, organised by their special features: excellent for young readers building their vocabulary and learning about the natural world.

• Creature Features: Dinosaurs

  Author: Natasha Durley
  Publisher: Big Picture Press
  Interest age: 3-6
  

  Millions of years ago, dinosaurs roamed the Earth: and a lot of them had very interesting features, such as big sharp teeth like T Rex, amazing armour like Ankylosaurus, or super spiny sails like Spinosaurus. Colourful illustrations and fascinating facts make this a great one for younger readers, though they may need help reading some of the longer dinosaur …

• Creature Features: Oceans

  Author: Natasha Durley
  Publisher: Big Picture Press
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Organised into eleven double page spreads of creatures with enormous eyes, snazzy spikes, black and white markings, fantastic fins and many more, this large board book is the perfect introduction to ocean wildlife for young readers. 

• Creature of the Night

  Author: Kate Thompson
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 9+

  A teenage tearaway from tough downtown Dublin is unwillingly relocated into a rural County Clare which still believes in the Little Folk.

• Creaturepedia

  Author: Adrienne Barman
  Publisher: Wide Eyed Editions
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 8

  Creaturepedia is sure to keep a child entertained!

• Creeping Beauty

  Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Freya Hartas
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Can Eshe and the queen stop Creeping Beauty from taking over all of Mythica with her vines and thorns? Original, fun and deliciously magical.

• Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets

  Author: Hena Khan Illustrator: Mehrdokht Amini
  Publisher: Chronicle Books
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 5+

  This beautifully designed picture book with exquisite illustrations explores a variety of shapes relating to Islamic objects and practices. It is perfect to share with children at home or in the classroom.

• Cress

  Author: Marissa Meyer
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Imprisoned aboard a satellite by the evil Queen Levana, Cress has grown up surrounded by nothing but netscreens and forced to be the Queen's eye in the sky. Now that means tracking Cinder, Thorne, Wolf & Scarlet who are coming for Queen Levana. However, when the group attempt to rescue Cress from her prison in the sky, she is forced to question everythin…

• Crewel

  Author: Gennifer Albin
  Publisher: Faber Children's
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  Adelice discovers she has a powerful but dangerous gift as she struggles to retain her indiviudality within a repressive regime.

• Crikey and Cat

  Author: Chris McKimmie
  Publisher: Allen and Unwin
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  The text is minimal and the illustrations are drawn in a naïve style. Ideally working with an adult, the young reader will interpret the pictures and use their imagination to extract the story.

• Crimson Poison

  Author: Susan Moore
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  In order to get her life back, Nat must travel to the ends of the earth to save her guardian's family. The excitement and adventure jumps off every page, gripping the reader right to the end. A great read.

• Crisps

  Author: Jonny Zucker
  Publisher: Three Hares Publishing
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 10+

  A zany, comedy thriller/adventure story, featuring an evil old hag who runs a thriving crisp-making company - thanks to the efforts of an enslaved workforce.

• Criw’r Coed a’r Draenogod

  Author: Carys Glyn
  Publisher: Lolfa
  Interest age: 6-7
  

  Dyma’r ail yng nghyfres Criw’r Coed. Y tro hwn mae anifeiliaid hynaf y byd yn ôl i ddatrys dirgelwch y draenogod coll. 

  ---

  This is the second in the Criw’r Coed series. This time, the oldest animals in the world are back to solve the mystery of the lost hedgehogs. 

• Croaky: Search for the Sasquatch

  Author: Matty Long
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 6-8
  Reading age: 6+

  Croaky Hopper is a frog who’s keen for adventure. So he’s thrilled to go on a Woggle Scouts camping trip. But will they find the mysterious Sasquatch? Colourful, funny and full of action. 

• Croc and Bird

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

  Two eggs lie side-by-side on a sandy beach: one hatches to reveal a crocodile and the other a bird.

• Croc by the Rock

  Author: Hilary Robinson Illustrator: Mike Gordon
  Publisher: ReadZone Books
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 5+

  Jake finds what he thinks is proof of a crocodile in his local pond. He tells a man in a van, and the man sends his dog to take a look...

• Crocodile Tears

  Author: Roger McGough Illustrator: by Greg McLeod
  Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 6+

  This brilliantly illustrated, funny, touching and insightful tale follows the adventures of a restless, young crocodile desperate to experience life in the big city.

• Crongton Knights

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

  McKay's life on the South Crongton Estate is rough. His Mum has died, his Dad works all hours of the day to keep away the Bailiffs, and his brother is always out looking for trouble.

• Cross My Heart and Never Lie

  Author: Nora Dåsnes Translator: Matt Bagguley
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 10+

  Tuva is torn between two friendship groups – those who fall in love and those who don’t. But where does she fit? Charming and reflective of many a ‘tween’s’ experience.  

• Crossing the Stream

  Author: Elizabeth-Irene Baitie
  Publisher: Cassava Republic Press
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  An engaging mystery with real heart, set in contemporary Ghana, with themes of grief, superstitions and distinguishing truth from lies.

• Crow Country

  Author: Kate Constable
  Publisher: Allen & Unwin
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 11+

  Sadie isn’t happy when her impulsive mother drags her away from city life to make a fresh start in a remote country town.

• Crow Moon

  Author: Anna McKerrow
  Publisher: Quercus
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  Crow Moon is an utterly unique take on witches, dystopia, and the environment.

• Cruel Summer

  Author: Juno Dawson
  Publisher: Indigo
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 13+

  A year after Janey's suicide, her friends come back together for a holiday at a luxurious Spanish villa. Then an unexpected guest arrives, claiming to have evidence that Janey was murdered.

• Crunchy Croc

  Author: Sam Lloyd
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 1+
  Reading age: 4+

  Coco the crocodile is hungry! Quick, before she nibbles off your fingers - let’s find her something healthy to chomp.

• Crusade

  Author: Elizabeth Laird
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's books
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 9+

  Adam and Salim find themselves part of opposing armies in the Europe-wide Christian crusade against Sultan Saladin's Islamic empire.

• Crusade

  Author: Linda Press Wulf
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 12+

  Seeking escape from their lives, two teenagers are drawn to follow a charismatic young man who is leading a Children’s Crusade through France to the Holy Land.

• Crush

  Author: Eve Ainsworth
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  This sensitive and thoughtful look at the dynamics of abusive relationships presents both victim and aggressor as three-dimensional characters. Thought-provoking and essential reading.

• Crush

  Author: Svetlana Chmakova
  Publisher: Yen Press
  Interest age: 9-14
  Reading age: 9+

  Welcome to Berrybrook School. Jorge has a pretty comfortable life here: a spot on the athletics team and two brilliant friends. Whenever he sees Jazmine, though, he gets totally tongue-tied. He definitely doesn’t have a crush – does he?

• Crusher

  Author: Niall Leonard
  Publisher: Doubleday
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  When Finn Maguire finds his father brutally murdered, he sets out to discover who was behind the crime, taking him on a dangerous journey into London's criminal underworld.

• Cuckoo Song

  Author: Frances Hardinge
  Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
  Interest age: 11+
  Reading age: 12+

  This dark fairy-story from critically acclaimed author Frances Hardinge puts a richly imaginative spin on the old tales of changelings. Sensitive readers beware: there are some genuinely chilling and disturbing scenes here.

• Cuckoo!

  Author: Fiona Robertson
  Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  Cuckoo’s a bit of an oddity: all of the birds at home seem to be able to understand each other, but no-one speaks his language. 

• Curiosity House - The Shrunken Head

  Author: Lauren Oliver and HC Chester
  Publisher: Hodder and Stoughton
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 10+

  Dumfrey's Dime Museum is celebrating the arrival of a shrunken head. The children who live at the museum under the care of Mr Dumfrey are soon involved in trying to solve the mystery of the head - without realising the danger.

• Curious About Crocodiles

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

  The latest in Owen Davey’s amazing nature series featuring individual species, Curious About Crocodiles gives facts and curious details alongside accessible and beautiful graphic design, making a fascinating read about these sometimes misunderstood ancient creatures.

• Curse of the Dream Witch

  Author: Allan Stratton
  Publisher: Faber Childrens
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Since the King and Queen sought the help of the Dream Witch to give them a child,  the kingdom of Bellumen is suffering under a curse known as the Great Dread.

• Curse of the Werewolf Boy

  Author: Chris Priestley
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Mildew and Sponge race to solve the theft of the School Spoon in this hilarious, ridiculous adventure that takes in time travel, werewolves and even rogue Vikings.

• Cutting and Sticking

  Author: June Crebbin Illustrator: Peter Kavanagh
  Publisher: Cambridge University Press
  Interest age: 4-8
  Reading age: 7+

  Dad is helping Jess to decorate her new bedroom. Younger sister Alice wants to help too, but when Dad tells her to go downstairs she feels a bit left out.

• Cyborg (Virtual Kombat 3)

  Author: Chris Bradford Illustrator: Anders Frang
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9+

  Following on from Gamer and Virus, this is the third book in Chris Bradford's dystopian series. Specifically designed to reduce barriers to reading, this super-readable book is sure to appeal to gamers and martial arts fans.

• Cyborg Cat and the Night Spider

  Author: Ade Adepitan Illustrator: Carl Pearce
  Publisher: Piccadilly Press
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Ade gets mysterious messages from the Night Spider – is he really in danger, and is he a superhero? Ade is a bright, active, positive, exciting character who drives a thrilling plot. The book also shows that there's no reason why a superhero can't use a wheelchair.

• Cycle City

  Author: Alison Farrell
  Publisher: Chronicle Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  This colourful, absorbing hardback is full of tiny but witty intimate scenes of the animal residents of Cycle City. It's also a seek-and-find tour of this town, where everyone is on wheels: pigs, elephants, snails and polar bears!

• Cyfrinach Betsan Morgan

  Author: Gwenno Hywyn
  Publisher: Lolfa
  Interest age: 10-11
  

  Argraffiad newydd yw hwn o lyfr gafodd ei gyhoeddi yn wreiddiol yn yr wythdegau ac mae’r stori yr un mor afaelgar heddiw ag yr oedd bryd hynny.

  ---

  This is a new printing of a book that was originally published in the eighties and the story is still as appealing today as it was then. 

• Cynan a’r Enfys

  Author: Julia Rawlinson Illustrator: Tiphanie Beake
  Publisher: Graffeg
  Interest age: 6-7
  

  Dyma lyfr arall mewn cyfres o straeon syml a hyfryd am Cynan y llwynog a’i berthynas â byd natur.

  ---

  This is another book in a series of uncomplicated and lovely stories about Cynan the fox and his relationship with the world of nature. 

• Cyril and Pat

  Author: Emily Gravett
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 6+

  Cyril the Squirrel is so lonely that, when he finally makes a friend, he doesn’t seem to notice that "Pat" might not be quite what he seems. A colourful, rhyming story about friendship against the odds.

• Cyril the Lonely Cloud

  Author: Tim Hopgood
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  Cyril the cloud drifts alone through the skies, wishing somebody would smile at him. Instead, everyone blames him for spoiling their day. This vibrant, thought-provoking picture book demonstrates the importance of rainwater to make sure the planet thrives.

• Change Sings

  Author: Amanda Gorman Illustrator: Loren Long
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 3-6
  

  An inspiring anthem for children with lyric text about the power of youth and community, written by US Presidential inaugural poet Amanda Gordon.

• Changes

  Author: Anthony Browne
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  One morning Joseph’s dad goes out to fetch Joseph’s mother. Before leaving he says that things are going to change.

• Chains

  Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  A brilliantly told, exciting story, with a brave and dignified heroine, which reveals the complexities of this chapter of American history.

• Challenge Everything: The Extinction Rebellion Youth Guide to Saving the Planet

  Author: Blue Sandford
  Publisher: Pavilion
  Interest age: 10-14
  Reading age: 9+

  Written by 17-year-old youth activist, Blue Sandford, this powerful and practical book is designed to empower young people to take action and change their future. 

• Chameleon Swims

  Author: Laura Hambleton
  Publisher: Milet Publishing
  

  • An unusual chameleon learns to swim in this colourpacked book.

  • It's got lots of positive messages about swimming.

  • The book is also available in dual language editions.

• Chanukah Lights Everywhere

  Author: Michael J. Rosen Illustrator: Melissa Iwai
  Publisher: Voyager Books
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Join a family as they celebrate Chanukah – the festival of lights. A heart-warming picture book to share.

• Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species

  Author: Sabina Radeva
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  Charles Darwin’s On The Origin of Species is one of science’s most important texts. Sabina Radeva, a natural biologist, illustrator and designer, has now retold the book in an accessible picture book form for children – and it’s brilliant.

• Charles Dickens and Friends

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

  A selection of the works of one of the world's greatest writers, retold in accessible comic-strip style.

• Charles Dickens: Scenes from an Extraordinary Life

  Author: Mick Manning Illustrator: Brita Granstrom
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  Celebrate the 2012 bi-centenary of Charles Dickens' life with this new, illustrated biography. Beginning with his birth it follows Dickens through his early years of hardship, career as a reporter and his family life, and then moves on to his success as a writer, his visits to America and Europe and his tours and talks. There are also lively graphic-novel st…

• Charley's First Night

  Author: Amy Hest Illustrator: Helen Oxenbury
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 7+

  On his first night at home, Charley the puppy is given a guided tour by his new owner, Henry.

• Charlie and Lola: I Am Not Sleepy and I Will Not Go To Bed

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 3-5
  

  As ever, Lauren Child's genius at following the imaginative logic of children is spot on in this funny yet reassuring book about bedtime. Great fun for little ones who can identify with the definitely-not-sleepy Lola.

• Charlie and Lola: Numbers

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 1-3
  Reading age: 4-5

  Join Charlie and Lola to count to 10 and beyond in this lovely first counting board book.

• Charlie and Lola: Opposites

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 1-3
  Reading age: 4-5

  Charlie and Lola demonstrate a variety of opposites in this charming board book for little ones.

• Charlie and Lola: Shapes

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 1-3
  Reading age: 4-5

  Ideal for young fans of Charlie and Lola, this series of shapes in different contexts is a fun place to start naming and recognising.

• Charlie and Lola: Things

  Author: Lauren Child
  Publisher: Orchard Books
  Interest age: 1-3
  Reading age: 4-5

  Follow Lola as she discovers a variety of fascinating things in this charming board book for fans of Charlie and Lola.

• Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

  Author: Roald Dahl Illustrator: Quentin Blake
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 8+

  Roald Dahl's wicked sense of humour is perfectly in evidence in this marvellously imaginative classic story, which has been loved by generations of children. 

• Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Pop-Up Book

  Author: Roald Dahl Illustrator: Quentin Blake
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 7+

  This very special edition of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a treat for Roald Dahl fans both old and new

• Charlie Bone and the Shadow of Badlock

  Author: Jenny Nimmo
  Publisher: Farshore
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9+

  Charlie’s ancestor, Otus the giant, has been imprisoned by the evil Count Harken and Charlie is sucked into a painting of Badlock to rescue him.

• Charlie Cook's Favourite Book

  Author: Julia Donaldson Illustrator: Axel Scheffler
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 4-6
  Reading age: 6+

  From pirates to dragons, aliens and ghosts, this book serves as a celebration of all stories, and a reminder of how one story can lead to another!

• Charlie Changes into a Chicken

  Author: Sam Copeland Illustrator: Sarah Horne
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 6+

  Something strange happens to Charlie at random times for no apparent reason: he changes into animals. This book cleverly portrays ways of dealing with stress and anxiety, and provides some sound advice throughout. Brilliant and positive. 

• Charlie Merrick’s Misfits: I’m a Nobody, Get Me Out of Here!

  Author: Dave Cousins
  Publisher: Oxford
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 7

  The second Charlie Merrick book takes our hero and his football-mad friends on a Soccer Camp holiday, but the plan misfires when they discover that the booking got confused, and they end up at a Survival Camp instead.

• Charlie Merrick's Misfits in Fouls, Friends and Football

  Author: Dave Cousins
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  With some great lessons about friendship, ambition and individual worth, Charlie Merrick's Misfits in Fouls, Friends and Football is a great book for any child to get lost in and learn from.

• Charlie Morphs Into a Mammoth

  Author: Sam Copeland Illustrator: Sarah Horne
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  The third book in a hilarious series following Charlie, a boy with a most unusual superpower, as he tries to solve the mysterious disappearance of animals in the town.

• Charlie Turns Into a T-Rex

  Author: Sam Copeland
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Charlie is back, and still trying his best to avoid changing into animals. He soon realises that the true power of his abilities is knowing he is surrounded by friends and family who really care about him. Heartwarming and hilarious, this book will bring you so much joy.

• Charlie’s War Illustrated - Remembering World War One

  Author: Mick Manning & Brita Granstrom
  Publisher: Franklin Watts
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 9+

  A collage approach makes this picture flat a brilliant book to support school study of World War One.

• Charlotte's Web

  Author: E B White Illustrator: Garth Williams
  Publisher: HarperCollins
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  This is the tale of how a little girl named Fern - with the help of a friendly talking spider called Charlotte - saved her pig, Wilbur, from the usual fate of nice fat little pigs.

• Charm and Strange

  Author: Stephanie Kuehn
  Publisher: Electric Monkey
  Interest age: 13+
  Reading age: 13+

  Win stalks his way through life at his exclusive boarding school - intense, haunted and shunning friendship. Then a hiker's savaged body is found nearby.

• Charm School

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

  Horrified when her mother enrols her at Charm School, Bonny is saddened to discover that although outwardly, everyone is charming and ladylike, closer inspection reveals a group of spiteful, insecure girls.

• Charmed Life

  Author: Diana Wynne Jones
  Publisher: Essential Modern Classics
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 9+

  Cat doesn't mind living in the shadow of his sister, Gwendolen, the most promising young witch ever seen on Coven Street. But trouble starts brewing the moment the two orphans are summoned to live in Chrestomanci Castle. Frustrated that the witches of the castle refuse to acknowledge her talents, Gwendolen conjures up a scheme that could throw whole worlds o…

• Charming!

  Author: Michaela Morgan
  Publisher: Barrington Stoke
  Interest age: 9+
  Reading age: 8+

  In this 21st century take on the Cinderella story, our heroine is shy, lonely and embarassed - until new girl Charmaine encourages her to join a hip-hop dance class.

• Chasing Danger

  Author: Sara Grant
  Publisher: Scholastic
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  When 14-year-old Chase Armstrong is sent to visit her grandmother at a remote tropical island, she thinks it's going to be the most boring holiday, ever – but then pirates attack the resort. An exciting and high-action mystery thriller.

• Chasing Redbird

  Author: Sharon Creech
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's books
  Interest age: 11-15
  Reading age: 11+

  13-year-old Zinny becomes withdrawn after the death of her beloved Aunt Jessie ('Redbird'), but then an ancient pioneer trail is discovered on the family farm, giving her an irresistible challenge.

• Chasing the Dark

  Author: Sam Hepburn
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 12+

  Joe's mum is dead, and he's been forced to go and live with his unwelcoming aunt in the country. A strange local mansion sets him on the trail of a mystery.

• Chasing the Stars

  Author: Malorie Blackman
  Publisher: Penguin Random House
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  Blackman's skilful retelling of Shakespeare's Othello in a futuristic space setting is thrilling and romantic. The characters are memorable, and readers won't be able to tell whose side they are on - and who they should trust.

• Chatterbox Baby: Farmyard Friends

  Author: N/A Illustrator: Gwé
  Publisher: Pat-a-Cake
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  This cheerful touch-and-feel title in the Chatterbox Baby series, with its sturdy pages and bright, pretty illustrations, will delight babies and toddlers who are just beginning to discover the joy of books.

• Chatterbox: Go, Car, Go

  Author: N/A Illustrator: Gwé
  Publisher: Pat-a-Cake
  Interest age: 0-1
  

  Babies and toddlers are sure to enjoy this vibrant touch-and-feel book from the Chatterbox Baby series, which introduces an assortment of things that go - from cars and trains to rockets and submarines, there are so many exciting vehicles to explore. 

• Chavs

  Author: Owen Jones
  Publisher: Verso Books
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 14+

  Chavs is a damning indictment of the media and political establishment and an illuminating, disturbing portrait of inequality and class hatred in modern Britain

• Check Mates

  Author: Stewart Foster
  Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  Interest age: 12-14
  Reading age: 12+

  When his Granddad decides to teach Felix to play chess, Felix will do anything to get out of it... but it soon leads him to some surprising discoveries.

• Checkmate

  Author: Malorie Blackman
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 10+

  How does a sweet and innocent child grow up to be so bitter and twisted that she is prepared not only to kill those she considers to be enemies but also to blow herself up in the process?

• Cheeky Monkey

  Author: Zehra Hicks
  Publisher: Hodder
  Interest age: 2-5
  

  A cute little red monkey wants to play, but nobody wants to play with her! She accidentally causes havoc wherever she goes in her search for a playmate - until she says a magic word that makes everybody want to play with her.

• Cheer Up Your Teddy Bear, Emily Brown!

  Author: Cressida Cowell Illustrator: Neal Layton
  Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 5-7

  Emily Brown and her sidekick rabbit, Stanley, are back – and this time, they're on a mission to cheer up one very unhappy teddy bear. Another lovely story of friendship and humour from the author of How To Train Your Dragon and illustrator Neal Layton.

• Cheese Belongs To You

  Author: Alexis Deacon Illustrator: Viviane Schwarz
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 4-8
  Reading age: 5+

  ‘RAT LAW’ states that ‘Cheese Belongs To You’ – at least until someone bigger, stronger, faster, or scarier decides otherwise.

• Cherry Blossom Dreams

  Author: Gwyneth Rees
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 9-13
  Reading age: 9+

  Divided loyalties, tested friendships, first loves, a changing home life and family secrets are all contained within this readable and amusing tale about the difficulties faced by adolescent girls.

• Cherry Moon

  Author: Zaro Weil Illustrator: Junli Song
  Publisher: Troika
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 6+

  This big, beautiful book is full of short, simple poems that are joyous nods to nature in all its awe and wonder. Any poetry or art lover would surely welcome Cherry Moon into their library, and it makes the perfect introduction to creative writing for young readers.

• CHERUB: The Recruit

  Author: Robert Muchamore
  Publisher: Hachette
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 10+

  In the first book in Robert Muchamore's spectacular series, James is recruited into the ranks of CHERUB - a secret organisation which trains children as spies.

• Chester Parsons is Not a Gorilla

  Author: Martyn Ford
  Publisher: Faber & Faber
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  When "mind jumper" Chester gets trapped in a gorilla's brain, he has limited time to find his human body before being imprisoned in the primate’s mind forever. Recommended for confident middle-grade readers looking for a more challenging plot.

• Chibi Samurai Wants a Pet

  Author: Sanae Ishida
  Publisher: Little Bigfoot
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 7+

  Little Kunoichi is a ninja-girl-in-training and has a very special pet – a fearless, powerful, super-duper Ninja Bunny. A charming picture book, combining the search for a suitable pet with a fun look at selected aspects of Japanese folklore and culture.

• Chicken Clicking

  Author: Jeanne Willis Illustrator: Tony Ross
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 4-8
  Reading age: 5+

  A perfect introduction to internet safety for young children, wrapped up in an imaginative story about a thrill-seeking chick.

• Chicken Mission: Danger in the Deep Dark Woods

  Author: Jennifer Gray
  Publisher: Faber Children’s Books
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 7+

  Young readers will identify with the Elite Squad's lack of confidence, and revel in Ruth's inventions, and the dastardly Pigeon-Poo Gang, while their elders will enjoy the (useless) duck agent James Pond, and the clever acronyms!

• Chicken on the Roof

  Author: Matt Goodfellow Illustrator: Hannah Asen
  Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
  Interest age: 8-11
  Reading age: 8+

  If you need an excuse to stay in bed or had one of those days when everything seems to go wrong, Matt Goodfellow knows exactly how you feel! A lively, illustrated collection of entertaining poetry by a popular performance poet.

• Chickens Can't See in the Dark

  Author: Kristyna Litten
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  When Little Pippa Chicken is told by her teacher that chickens can't see in the dark, she sets out to prove him wrong, and soon becomes the talk of Sunnyside Farm.

• Chicks Rule!

  Author: Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen Illustrator: Renee Kurilla
  Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers
  Interest age: 4-7
  Reading age: 6+

  A little chick gathers her fabulously talented girlfriends to achieve her dreams of reaching the stars. This charming and cartoony picture book has a lovely moral that when we work together, we can make incredible things happen.

• Chinglish

  Author: Sue Cheung
  Publisher: Andersen Press
  Interest age: 13-16
  Reading age: 13+

  Jo’s terrified about bringing friend Tina home to meet her parents and revealing that she lives above a Chinese takeaway. In reading Jo’s diary, we understand the tension within her family, as well as the racism and homophobia in the world around her.

• Child I

  Author: Steve Tasane
  Publisher: Faber & Faber
  Interest age: 9-11
  Reading age: 9+

  This heartbreaking tale of a group of children living in a refugee camp is based on real events, and will make readers both young and old reflect on those less fortunate than them.

• Child of St Kilda

  Author: Beth Waters
  Publisher: Child’s Play
  Interest age: 6-11
  Reading age: 7+

  Norman John Gillies was born on Hirta, the largest island making up St Kilda, in 1925: an isolated place to live, exposed to the worst of the Atlantic weather. Now, it is deserted. A remarkable illustrated story that illuminates a little-known community.

• Child X

  Author: Lee Weatherly
  Publisher: Random House
  Interest age: 11-14
  Reading age: 10+

  14-year-old Jules should be happy, having just landed the leading role in a play. However, her adored father has discovered that Jules is not his child and is suing his wife for divorce and damages.

• Children of Blood and Bone

  Author: Tomi Adeyemi
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 14-18
  Reading age: 10+

  Magic has been gone from the world for years, destroyed by a vengeful king. Zelie joins forces with a rebel princess to bring it back and save her people from domination. Adeyemi has created a thrilling rollercoaster ride of a book. 

• Children of the Quicksands

  Author: Efua Traoré
  Publisher: Chicken House
  Interest age: 9-13
  Reading age: 9+

  A glorious mix of Yoruba myths and legends infused with the joy, adventure, culture and exuberance of Nigeria all wrapped up in a tense, magical thriller.

• Children's Activity Atlas

  Author: Jenny Slater Illustrator: Katrin Wiehle and Martin Sanders
  Publisher: QED Publishing
  Interest age: 6+
  Reading age: 8

  In this atlas each double-page spread covers one of 13 regions of the world.

• Chime

  Author: Franny Bilingsley
  Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
  Interest age: 12+
  Reading age: 9+

  A promising portrayal of an adolescent mind which has been brainwashed by controlling adults into believing that its owner is evil.

• Chimp and Zee

  Author: Catherine and Laurence Anholt
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 5+

  Chimp and Zee, the naughty, lovable monkey twins, like to hide in the banana basket and play tricks on Mumkey. 

• Chimp and Zee and the Big Storm

  Author: Catherine and Laurence Anholt
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 3-6
  Reading age: 6+

  Chimp and Zee go out in the Big Storm to help PapaKey bring in the washing. But they squibble and squabble and end up being carried out over the sea clinging on to a bed sheet.

• Chimp and Zee's First Words and Pictures

  Author: Catherine and Laurence Anholt
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 3+

  'This is Chimp. This is Zee. Point to everything you see!' Never has acquiring language been such fun – or so enchanting.

• Chips, Beans and Limousines: The Fantastic Diary of Bathsheba Clarice de Trop

  Author: Leila Rasheed
  Publisher: Usborne
  Interest age: 7-9
  Reading age: 7-9

  Bathsheba Clarice de Trop learns the lesson that money doesn’t always bring happiness, but friends and family can. A lovely, touching story, seen through Clarice’s diary, of what is actually happening in her world.

• Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Flies Again

  Author: Frank Cottrell Boyce Illustrator: Joe Berger
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 8+

  When the Tooting family find a vast abandoned engine and fit it to their camper van, they have no idea of the adventure that lies ahead...

• Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: The Race Against Time

  Author: Frank Cottrell Boyce Illustrator: Joe Berger
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 7+
  Reading age: 7+

  In this follow-up to the popular Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Flies Again, the car that can fly and sail can now also time travel

• Chocolate Cake

  Author: Michael Rosen Illustrator: Kevin Waldron
  Publisher: Puffin
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  A little boy who really, really loves his mum’s chocolate cake wakes up in the middle of the night and, against his best efforts, scoffs the lot. Marvellous fun that's sure to get some tummies rumbling!

• Chocolate Mousse for Greedy Goose

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

  Join in the fun as all the animals come together for a chaotic dinner party! Tasty treats are on the menu - but unfortunately not all of the animals have very good table manners.

• Chomp

  Author: Carl Hiaasen
  Publisher: Orion
  Interest age: 10+
  Reading age: 9+

  Hiaasen turns his satirical talents to an examination of the entertainment industry in this novel exploring the truth behind reality TV series.

• Choo Choo

  Author: Petr Horacek Illustrator: Petr Horacek
  Publisher: Walker Books
  Interest age: 6 months+
  Reading age: 5+

  Enjoyment is enhanced for all youngsters as they are given the option of 'feeling' the train's journey as well as watching and hearing it.

• Choosing Crumble

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

  A charming twist on the familiar theme of a young girl wanting a dog.

• Chopsticks

  Author: Jessica Anthony and Rodrigo Corral
  Publisher: Razorbill
  Interest age: 14+
  Reading age: 13+

  This unusual story of star-crossed teenage love is told visually, through a series of photographs, collages and scrapbook pages

• Chris Riddell's Doodle-a-Day

  Author: Chris Riddell
  Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
  Interest age: 5+
  Reading age: 6+

  Chris Riddell's Doodle-A-Day features 366 illustration prompts, tips and artwork from award-winning illustrator Riddell, which will have you doodling every day for a year.

• Christmas Dinner of Souls

  Author: Ross Montgomery Illustrator: David Litchfield
  Publisher: Faber & Faber
  Interest age: 9-12
  Reading age: 9-12

  Although it has an overarching narrative, Christmas Dinner of Souls is also a collection of hair-raising and spine-tingling short stories. Some of these are deliciously, deliriously ghoulish, and if your child is the sort that hungers for chills and thrills, they will lap this up.

• Christmas Eve at the Mellops'

  Author: Tomi Ungerer
  Publisher: Phaidon Press
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 6+

  It is the day before Christmas and the four Mellops brothers all have the same idea - to surprise their family with a Christmas tree

• Christmas Lights

  Author: Ruth Symons Illustrator: Caroline Rabei
  Publisher: Templar
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  At the end of the day, as the light fades, a little girl and her dad set off in the car to drive home for Christmas. This short, cosy, atmospheric book is full of paper flaps and clever interactive features.

• Christmas with Princess Mirror-Belle

  Author: Julia Donaldson Illustrator: Lydia Monks
  Publisher: Macmillan
  Interest age: 6-10
  Reading age: 7-9

  Containing two Christmassy Mirror-Belle stories and an additional Christmas crafts section at the end of the book, this is a lovely, festive bedtime book for children looking forward to the big day.

• Christmas: A Tiny Little Story

  Author: Lisa Jones & Edward Underwood
  Publisher: Nosy Crow
  Interest age: 0-2
  

  A colourful and clear cloth book with thick, crinkly pages and a sturdy buggy handle to keep the book with little ones on the go, Christmas: A Tiny Little Story is a lovely present for a baby’s first or second festive season.

• Christophe’s Story

  Author: Nicki Cornwell and Karin Littlewood
  Publisher: Frances Lincoln
  Interest age: 8+
  Reading age: 7+

  Christophe arrives as a Rwandan refugee in an English primary school, and initially suffers bullying...

• Christopher Nibble

  Author: Charlotte Middleton
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 4+
  Reading age: 6+

  Christopher Nibble loves to eat dandelion leaves. But so does every other guinea pig in Dandeville – and that’s the problem!

• Christopher's Bicycle

  Author: Charlotte Middleton
  Publisher: Oxford University Press
  Interest age: 2+
  Reading age: 6+

  Christopher’s mum and dad have a surprise for him. They have fixed up an old bicycle as good as new so the young guinea pig can ride it around town.

• Chu’s First Day at School

  Author: Neil Gaiman Illustrator: Adam Rex
  Publisher: Bloomsbury
  Interest age: 4-5
  

  Chu the panda has a very big sneeze for such a little panda. And sometimes, when he sneezes, funny things happen. A colourful, hilarious tale about starting school for the first time.

• Churchill's Tale of Tails

  Author: Anca Sandu
  Publisher: Jonathan Cape
  Interest age: 3+
  Reading age: 5+

  Churchill the pig is very proud of his curly tail, and is devastated when it goes missing. Can friends Billy and Gruff help him get his tail back?