Books beginning with: O

  • Obsessive About Octopuses

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

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

  • Ocean Animals

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

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

  • Oceanarium

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

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

  • October, October

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

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

  • Octopants

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

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

  • Octopus Shocktopus!

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

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

  • Octopus Socktopus

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

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

  • Odd and the Frost Giants

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

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

  • Odd Dog Out

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

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

  • Of Lions and Unicorns

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

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

  • Off to Market

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

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

  • Off to the Beach!

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

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

  • Off to the Park!

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

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

  • Off the Page

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

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

  • Officer Clawsome: Lobster Cop

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

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

  • Oh Dear, Geoffrey!

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

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

  • Oh Maya Gods

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

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

  • Oh My Gods

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

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

  • Oh No, George!

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

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

  • Oh! If Only...

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

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

  • Oh, The Places You’ll Go!

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

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

  • Oi Cat!

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

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

  • Oi Dog!

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

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

  • Oi Duck-Billed Platypus

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

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

  • Oi Frog!

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

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

  • Oi! Get Off Our Train

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

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

  • Oksa Pollock: The Last Hope

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

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

  • Old Dog

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

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

  • Old Enough to Save the Planet

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

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

  • Old Gods New Tricks

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

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

  • Old MacDonald

    Author: Emma Dodd and Emily Hawkins
    Publisher: Amazing Baby

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

  • Old MacDonald Had A Phone

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

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

  • Old MacDonald Heard a Parp

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

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

  • Old Peter’s Russian Tales

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

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

    Perfect for those children who love Grimm style fairy tales.

  • Olive and the Big Secret

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

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

  • Oliver

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

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

  • Oliver and Patch

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

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

  • Oliver and the Seawigs

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

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

  • Oliver Elephant

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

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

  • Oliver Fibbs: Attack of the Alien Brain

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

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

  • Oliver Moon and the Potion Commotion

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

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

  • Oliver Twist

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

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

  • Oliver Twisted

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

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

  • Oliver Who Travelled Far and Wide

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

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

  • Oliver Who Was Small But Mighty

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

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

  • Oliver Who Would Not Sleep

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

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

  • Olivia goes to Venice

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

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

  • Olivia's First Term

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

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

  • Ollie Spark and the Accidental Adventure

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

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

  • Ollie’s Christmas Reindeer

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

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

  • Ollie’s Magic Bunny

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

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

  • Olly Brown, God of Hamsters

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

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

  • Om Shanti, Babe

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

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

  • Omar, the Bees and Me

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

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

  • Omega the Unknown

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

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

  • OMG! Is This Actually My Life?

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

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

  • On A Magical Do-Nothing Day

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

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

  • On Angel Wings

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

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

  • On My Papa’s Shoulders

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

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

  • On Silver Tides

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

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

  • On Sleepy Hill

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

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

  • On the Come Up

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

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

  • On The Move

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

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

  • On the Move: Poems About Migration

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

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

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

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

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

  • Once

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

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

  • Once Upon a Bathtime

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

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

  • Once Upon a Bedtime

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

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

  • Once Upon a Raindrop

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

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

  • Once Upon a Rhythm

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

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

  • Once Upon a Star

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

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

  • Once Upon a Tune: Stories from the Orchestra

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

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

  • Once Upon a Wild Wood

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

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

  • Once Upon an Alphabet

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

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

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

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

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

  • Once Upon an Ordinary School Day

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

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

  • One

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

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

  • One Banana, Two Bananas

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

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

  • One Cool Cat

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

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

  • One Crow Alone

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

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

  • One Chance Dance

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

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

  • One Cheetah, One Cherry

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

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

  • One Christmas in Our Building

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

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

  • One Christmas Wish

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

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

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

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

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

  • One Dog and His Boy

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

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

  • One Girl

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

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

  • One Gorilla

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

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

  • One Home Eighteen stories of hope from young activists

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

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

  • One House for All

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

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

  • One is a Snail, Ten is a Crab

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

    • This is an original approach to counting, using feet instead of fingers!
    • You'll have fun going through the numbers, 'One is a snail, two is a person'.
    • There's fun learning here as children work out lots of animal combinations to make numbers up to 100.

  • One Little Word

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

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

  • One Mole Digging a Hole

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

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

  • One Moonlit Night

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

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

  • One Night in the Zoo

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

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

  • One of Us

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

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

  • One Silver Summer

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

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

  • One Smart Fish

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

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

  • One Snowy Night

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

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

  • One Snowy Rescue

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

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

  • One Special Sleepover

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

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

  • One Ted Falls Out of Bed

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

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

  • One Time

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

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

  • One to Ten Animal Mayhem

    Author: Thomas Flintham
    Publisher: Scholastic

    A colourful counting book full of animals.

  • One Thing

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

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

  • One World: 24 Hours on Planet Earth

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

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

  • One Year With Kipper

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

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

  • One, Two, Cockatoo!

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

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

  • One, Two, Tree!

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

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

  • Only Eva

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

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

  • Only Ever Yours

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

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

  • Only One of Me: A love letter from Mum

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

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

  • Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun

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

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

  • Onyeka and the Rise of the Rebels

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

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

  • Opal Plumstead

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

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

  • Open Up, Please!

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

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

  • Open Very Carefully

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

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

  • Operation Bunny

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

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

  • Operation Eiffel Tower

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

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

  • Operation Gadgetman!

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

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

  • Operation Nativity

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

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

  • Operation Ouch!

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

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

  • Opposites

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

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

  • Optimists Die First

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

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

  • Ophelia and the Marvellous Boy

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

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

  • Orange Pear Apple Bear

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

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

  • Orangeboy

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

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

  • Oranges in No Man's Land

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

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

  • Orbiting Jupiter

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

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

  • Orion and the Dark

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

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

  • Orion Lost

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

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

  • Orphans of the Tide

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

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

  • Oscar the Hungry Unicorn

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

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

  • Oskar and the Things

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

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

  • Ostrich Boys

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

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

  • Otters' Moon

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

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

  • Otto the Book Bear

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

    A charming celebration of books and reading

  • Ottoline and the Yellow Cat

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

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

  • Ottoline at Sea

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

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

  • Ottoline Goes to School

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

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

  • Otherland

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

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

  • Our Amazing Planet: The World in Infographics

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

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

  • Our Big Blue Sofa

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

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

  • Our Chemical Hearts

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

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

  • Our Earth is a Poem: poetry about nature

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

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

  • Our Incredible Library Book and the wonderful journeys it took

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

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

  • Our Little Inventor

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

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

  • Our Rights! Stories and Poems about Children’s Rights

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

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

  • Our Sister, Again

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

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

  • Our Story Starts in Africa

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

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

  • Our Tower

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

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


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

  • Our World: A First Book of Geography

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

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

  • Out

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

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

  • Out of Heart

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

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

  • Out of Shadows

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

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

  • Out of the Blue

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

    • A wordless book with unique, crackly illustrations about the mysteries of the sea.
    • Tell a new story, in your own words, every time you share this book with your preschooler.
    • With notes at the end about marine life, lighthouses and items that wash up on beaches.

  • Out of the Blue

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

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

  • Out of the Blue

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

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


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

  • Out of the Clouds

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

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

  • Out of the Depths

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

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

  • Out of This World

    Author: Ali Sparkes
    Publisher: Oxford University Press

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

  • Outcast

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

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

  • Outcasts: The Game

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

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

  • Outlaw

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

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

  • Outlaw: The Legend of Robin Hood

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

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

  • Outlaw: The story of Robin Hood

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

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

  • Outside In: Nature Poems

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

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

  • Outside: A Guide to Discovering Nature

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

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

  • Over and Under the Pond

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

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

  • Over Sea, Under Stone

    Author: Susan Cooper
    Publisher: Red Fox
    Interest age: 9+
    Reading age: 10+

    On holiday in Cornwall, Simon, Jane and Barney discover an ancient map in the attic of the Grey House, where they are staying with their much-loved but mysterious Great Uncle Merry.

  • Over to You!

    Author: Roger McGough Illustrator: Jennifer Naalchigar
    Publisher: Puffin
    Interest age: 6-8
    Reading age: 6-8

    A joyous collection of funny, accessible poems that are wonderful to read aloud. Perfect for inspiring children to write their own poems. 

  • Over the Hills and Far Away

    Author: Elizabeth Hammill (collected by)
    Publisher: Frances Lincoln
    Interest age: 1+
    Reading age: 5+

    With rhymes from African, Native American, First Nation, Inuit, Latino and Maori cultures set alongside more well-known ones from the United Kingdom, this is truly a treasure trove of nursery rhymes that belongs on every bookshelf.

  • Over the Line

    Author: Tom Palmer
    Publisher: Barrington Stoke
    Interest age: 10+
    Reading age: 8+

    Set during World War I, this book tells the compelling true story of the professional footballers who signed up to fight. It's sure to enthral readers and pique their interest in the period.

  • Overheard in a Tower Block

    Author: Joseph Coelho Illustrator: Kate Milner
    Publisher: Otter-Barry Books
    Interest age: 10-14
    Reading age: 10+

    Recounting the childhood of a child living in a city tower block, many of these poems are sad or angry and bristle with an edginess that young teens may find refreshing when compared to other poetry aimed at them.

  • Owen and the Soldier

    Author: Lisa Thompson Illustrator: Mike Lowery
    Publisher: Barrington Stoke
    Interest age: 9-12
    Reading age: 8+

    A beautiful tale of a courageous young man who overcomes his fears when he finds an unlikely companion in a park statue. Complex ideas of young carers, social anxiety and remembrance are sensitively weaved into a light and accessible story.

  • Owl Babies

    Author: Martin Waddell Illustrator: Patrick Benson
    Publisher: Walker Books
    Interest age: 3-7
    Reading age: 6+

    This reassuring and stunningly illustrated book tackles the subject of temporary separation - a situation which all children are likely to experience, be it Mum going to work or first day at Nursery.

  • Oxford Roald Dahl Dictionary

    Author: Roald Dahl
    Publisher: Oxford University Press
    Interest age: 8+
    Reading age: 8+

    This delightful dictionary is bright and colourful, crammed full of Roald Dahl magic and Quentin Blake drawings. It will  inspire any budding poets and writers, and make you want to read the classic books all over again.

  • The Slug and the Snail

    Author: Oein DeBhairduin Illustrator: Olya Anima
    Publisher: Little Island
    Interest age: 4-5
    Reading age: 4+

    A story rooted in the oral tradition of the Irish Traveller community, this lyrical picture book tells the story of two slug brothers and their journey together exploring their identities.