The Highway Rat

The Highway Rat, by Julia Donaldson

From the best selling duo behind 'The Gruffalo' and 'Zog', Axel Scheffler's witty illustrations accompany Julia Donaldson's tale of the Highway Rat; the rude rodent intent on taking off with your food...and stealing your heart.

This fabulous rhyming tale emphasises the importance of treating others as you would like to be treated, and is perfect for group reads.

Age Range: 0-5, £10.99, Hardback

Marshall Armstrong Is New To Our School

Marshall Armstrong Is New To Our School, by David Mackintosh

Marshall Armstrong is out of this world. His laces are straight, his arms are spotty and his freckles look like birdseed. Everything about him is different...but is the new-kid-at-school really so bad?

This endearing book underlines the difficulties of starting a new school, whilst highlights the importance of giving someone a chance. Accompanied by great illustrations this is a truly heart warming read.

Age Range: 0-5, £6.99, Paperback

No and Me

No and Me by Delphine de Vigan

Lou Bertignac has an IQ of 160, barely any friends, a father who secretly cries and a mother who has all but given up. To escape her lonely world she sits and watches the passengers at the train station, imagining the lives they live. However, once there she meets No.

No is homeless. Lou is drawn into her scary and tough world and truly believes she can save her from the mean streets of France... but is it too late for No? And is it too much for Lou?

This heartbreaking and touching story tells the tale of friendship, sacrifice, survival and unwavering loyalty between two girls; each lost in their own worlds.

Age Range: Teenage+, £7.99, Paperback

The Slap

The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas

Winner of the Commonwealth Writers Prize 2009 and Man Booker Prize for Fiction in 2010, Tsiolkas brings us yet another startling and thought provoking novel.

At a suburban barbeque a man slaps an unruly child. The child is not his own and the reverberations of his actions are felt throughout everyone who witnesses the act of violence. Told through 8 very different perspectives this controversial subject will make you question your own opinion on the matter whilst revealing the messy tangled lives of the characters involved.

This novel is certainly bold, original and complex. One not to be missed for those brave enough to join the debate of crime and punishment, loyalty and betrayal and, most of all, right and wrong.

Age Range: Adult, £7.99, Paperback

What we've been reading this summer

At this time of year, shops tend to bombard customers with huge selections of 'perfect' summer reads. Well, instead of showing you a table piled high with every single book published this August, we thought we'd tell you about the books that we've actually been reading so far this summer...
Here is the first of our favourites:

When God Was a Rabbit by Sarah Winman

I'd been dying to read this ever since we received a postcard of the cover last Christmas and finally got round to it during a week by the sea in Sussex this summer! The beautiful cover may have been the first thing I liked about the book, but it's by no means the only thing.

The mysterious blurb doesn't give much away, but this is essentially the story of the complex relationship between a brother and sister. From early childhood, Sarah Winman follows the life of Elly, through friendships, family changes, first loves and first losses. Throughout her life however, one character is central, and that is Joe; brother, friend and protector. We learn as much about Joe as we do Elly, and both of these characters are real and loveable, as are the supporting cast of wonderful characters who each have an impact on Elly's life at some point.
To tell more of the story would spoil the journey of reading the book, but it's safe to say that there are tears and laughter in abundance in this wonderful debut novel, and it's one that you'd be mad to miss out on. It was well worth the wait!

General Fiction. Published by Headline £7.99

I-Spy London

Explore London & London's Transport, by I-Spy

I-Spy is back and is offering up perfect little pocket books of London and London's Transport. Filled with beautiful photography and interesting notes they are ideal for teaching children about our capital whilst encouraging them to go out and explore!

Bursting with history, culture and art facts these books are the only travel companions you'll need for exploring London!

Age Range: 6-66 years, £4.99 & £2.50, Paperback

Paul Thurlby's Alphabet

Paul Thurlby's Alphabet, by Paul Thurlby

From acclaimed graphic artist comes this unique and innovative alphabet book. Each letter is granted their own page with imaginative words and stunnning illustrations accompanying it!

Thurlby makes the alphabet easy to remember and impossible to forget with his skilled artwork and unique interpretation of the letters! Perfect for first time readers, both boys and girls!

Age Range: 0-5, £12.99, Hardback

Baby's Bedtime Storybook

Baby's Bedtime Storybook by Sam Taplin
There are lots of special times you share with your little ones, none more so than sharing a story at bedtime.

This is a wonderful collection of bedtime stories that are calming, reassuring, are all roughly two pages long and the bonus feature is, all the characters go to sleep at the end of each story!

Made with hard pages, this is perfect for really little ones and it will withstand the jostling of teddies and pillows! Beautiful illustrations by Francesca di Chiara compliment the sweet stories.
Age range: 0-4 £12.99 Hardback

Fancy Dress Farmyard

Fancy Dress Farmyard by Nick Sharratt
Nick returns with a flaptastic new book! You're invited to a knees-up at the farmyard, where all the animals have put on their best costumes and are partying the night away and enjoying a fizzy pop.

Can you spot who is wearing which costume? The colourful outfits and hair pieces are good disguises, try to guess who is wearing what so you can say hello!

The sturdy pages and simple concept, make this a great book for little ones who aren't quite ready for a long story but are beyond board books.
Age range: 0-4 £10.99 Hardback

Doctor Hoof

Doctor Hoof by Diana Kimpton
Doctor Hoof is a doctor for horses and only horses. He moves to a new town and sets-up a new surgery and waits for the patients to walk through the door; however there are none and he finds himself lonely, sad and thinking about moving onto the next town.

However just as he thinks of packing up, a donkey called Basil Bray seeks help for a sore throat and Dr Hoof explains that he is only treats horses and Basil explains that they are not very different (he has hooves too!). Dr Hoof realises that this is true and treats Basil and feels great for it.

Then follows a string of other animals who convince Dr Hoof that he can treat lots of animals and with each patient, he gets a wonderful feeling and a boost!
As word gets out that his surgery treats every kind of animal, Dr Hoof is flooded with new patients and friends and finally he feels better too!

This is a heart warming tale of friendship and coupled with adorable illustrations from Garry Parsons, this is a winner. Love it!
Age range: 0-5 £6.99 paperback

Ghost Boy

Ghost Boy by Martin Pistorius
Martin was a normal, happy, healthy boy growing up in South Africa until, aged 12, he became inexplicablly ill. Simply starting as a sore throat months passed until he lost the ability to move until he was mute and dependant on a wheelchair. Everyone resigned to loosing hope, but as the years passed Martin began to 'wake up' and became more and more responsive. Against all odds Martin is now married with a successful business.

This true story confronts the belief of hope, faith, love, perseverance and survival. Truly moving and touching, Martin's physical and mental strength will inspire us all.
Age Range: Adult, £14.99, Hardback

I'm Not Sleepy

I'm Not Sleepy, by Jonathan Allen
Returning to our pages is the latest installment from our ever argumentative hero, the fluffy baby owl, this time insisting he is definitly NOT sleepy!
Perfect for group reads aloud, children will be able to relate to the stubborn baby owl whilst parents will see similarities in the sucessful Papa owl. A delightful bedtime read, ideal for falling asleep to....
Age Range: 0-5, £6.99, Paperback

A Tiny Bit Marvellous

A Tiny Bit Marvellous, by Dawn French
Mo Battle; 50 year old child psychologist and mother of two teenage children that she simply does not understand, is having a crisis. There's 17 year old Dora who blames Mo for, like, everything! There's Peter, the next Oscar Wilde, or so he believes...And the there's Dad, who's just, well, Dad. She's about to do something unusually wild and selfish which will leave the family teetering on the edge of precipice. You'll be laughing along to the story of a modern family, living very seperate lives though all heading for melt down! Each chapter told from the perspective of another character, this is more than just a comedy. You will find additional layers revealed from deeper subjects such as homesexuality, bullying and infedelity, all handled with wit and adept care.
From the superb and hilariously witty Dawn French, comedienne and master mind behind sitcoms such as French and Suanders and The Vicar Of Dibley, this novel is brilliantly observed and will have you laughing on every page. Age Range: Adult, £7.99, Paperback

Half Brother

Half Brother, by Kenneth Oppel
On Ben's thirteenth birthday he is given a new baby brother...in the form of a hairy chimpanzee to be raised in the family as part of his behavioural scientitist's dad's 'Project Zan'. As part of an experiment to discover if chimpanzees can learn, Ben fosters a true connection with Zan as they learn to communicate through sign language. Though with his animalistic instincts and the detattched view his father holds of the scientific specicim, Ben is left wondering what will happen when the experiment inevitably ends. As the media circus descends on the unorthodox family and Ben develops and new friendship with the lovely Jennifer, Oppel poigniontly depicts the whirlwind of emotions detailed in the pages of this gripping tale.
This moving and original novel delves into the themes of science, family values and the tough lessons of growing up, narrated in the authentic voice of Ben Tomlin in which all readers can relate to.
Age Range: Young Teen, £6.99, Paperback

That Dog

That Dog! by Nanette Newman
Barney and Ben are inseperable, creating an unbreakable bond between them. Nothing and no one could ever replace that dog. But after Barney dies, Ben struggles to welcome a new pet into his home, leaving him reluctant to accept the new puppy. This touching and heartwarming story explores the feelings of love and loss from a young boys perspective. With time, Ben discovers there is room in his heart for two special dogs. With beautifully detailed illustrations from Flora Daneman, you will appreciate this warming tale of overcoming grief and opening up your heart again.
Age Range: 0-5, £10.99, Hardback

Room

Room by Emma Donoghue
Jack is like any typical 5 year old boy; he loves watching cartoons and playing games with his Ma, but the startling difference is that he's spent his entire life in a cramped 11x11 foot room, held captive by midnight visitor Old Nick. Believing they are the only people in the world, Jack is startled to be told there is a world outside the room and it's time to find it... at whatever cost.

Based on a true story, Room is a profoundly affecting novel about survival, love and freedom that will easily be read in one sitting. Listening to the unique perspective of Jack creates a story like nothing you've ever read before and a novel that will stay with you long after you put it down.
Age Range: Adult, £7.99, Paperback

The Rhyming Rabbit

The Rhyming Rabbit, by Julia Donaldson
Impelled by the colours and creatures around him, the Rhyming Rabbit generates vivacious verses and lively limericks to entertain all, but sadly, they are not always appreciated by his fellow rabbits. So instead, he embarks on an underground adventure, full of new wonders. A rabbit with an ear for rhyme, these short poems dance off the page and create a beautiful bedtime read. Illustrated by Lydia Monks with glittery depictions on every page, its a delightful book for young readers.
Age Range: 0-5, £10.99, Hardback

The Necromancer; The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel

The Necromancer; The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel, by Michael Scott
The fourth installment from Michael Scott sees the twins, John and Sophie, return home to San Francisco, only to discover it is no longer a safe environment for them. Still not having mastered the magic desperately needed to protect them against the Dark Elders, and with their weakening trust in Nicholas Flamel, they have a great challenge ahead of them. Meanwhile, outlaw John Dee has a master plan to raise the Mother of God's from the dead to hunt down Flamel. For that he must train a necromancer...and he has the perfect pair for the job.

This captivatingly cryptic novel keeps the reader on the edge of their seat throughout and is an ideal summer holiday read. A gripping novel from cover to cover!
Age Range: 9-12, £6.99, Paperback

The Queen Must Die; Chronicles of the Tempus

The Queen Must Die; Chronicles of the Tempus, by K. A. S Quinn This magical adventure follows the journey of Katie-Berger-Jones-Berg. Transported from the suffocating world of New York, Katie finds herself in the opulent surroundings of Buckingham Palace, under the reign of Queen Victoria! With the help of her new friends Princess Alice and James O'Rielly she must find out why she has been sent back in time, and what the dark forces moving through the royal household are planning... Are they really plotting to assassinate the Queen? And if so, can Katie stop them in time?

This humourous and lively novel is perfect for 9-12 year old girls as they time-travel with Katie and explore the realms of two very different worlds!
Age Range: 9-12 £6.99, Paperback

I Love You Dad

I Love You Dad, by Susan Akass
This charming book reminds us all why we love our dads, covering all his talents and traits including the way he tells scary stories at bedtime, how lets you sit on his tall, broad shoulders and even when he tickles you until you squeal! Filled with colourful illustrations this book is a perfectly eye catching present for Fathers Day. It even includes a lined page for you to complete with reasons why you love your bonkers and brilliant dad!
Age Range: 2-5 years, £6.99, Hardback

Just Like My Dad

Just Like My Dad by David Melling
This endearing and affectionate tale about a lion cub idolising his father is a perfect fathers day read for young children who look up to their father. With wacky illustrations and lively pictures this story book is both entertaining and touching, making any toddler laugh out loud alongside their dads!
Age range: 2-5 years, £5.99, Paperback

I Left My Tent in San Francisco

I Left My Tent in San Francisco by Emma Kennedy
The star of 'Goodness Gracious Me' and 'The Smoking Room' Emma Kennedy steps out from behind our televisions and presents to us her hilarious novel based on her disastrous experience in America. Dreaming of riches but instead facing rags we follow Emma and her friend begging for a job flipping burgers, surviving everything from earthquakes to snakes whilst finding bad luck at every turn.

This laugh out loud and startingly honest novel is impossible to put down as we travel through America with her, giggling at all their thrills and spills along the way. A perfect holiday read for those of us ready for an adventure...
Age Range: Adult + £11.99
Paperback

Beside the Seaside

Beside the Seaside by Jane Struthers
This compendium of facts, fables, history and mystery lets us in on the secrets of the sea, pirate plots, where the best rock pools, are and many other handy hints whilst reminding us why we love the seaside so much! Presenting a range of beach games, poems, pictures and even a who's who of butterflies this is a perfect companion for the beach, teaching us all a thing or two about our beloved seaside and how to get the most out of it with friends and families, children and adults alike. There is no reason not to be beside the seaside after exploring this beach book!
Age Range: Adults + £9.99
Hardback

London Walks Volume 2

London Walks Volume 2 by Time Out
Have you climbed on board the Merrie Thames Launch and taken a trip down to Teddington Lock, or eaten in one of the exquistite resteraunts on the Southbank? If not, this guide is a perfect stepping stone in ticking these experiences off your list and sparking ideas for many more! A follow up from London Walks Volume 1, it continues to explore our capital searching through local parks, rivers and viallges, guiding us through the city's streets. It's brimming with colourful, picturesque photos and helpful maps shining a new light on our beautiful city. Written by a collection of writers, novelists, artists and even comedians, there's somewhere for all of us to explore!
Age Range: Adults + £12.99
Paperback

The Man in Seat 61 Worldwide

The Man in Seat 61 Worldwide by Mark Smith
Mark Smith is the man behind the top website seat61.com and is back with a guide perfect for anyone wishing to travel the world through trains. This book explores Africa, Australasia, Asia and America and is full of top tips on affordable tickets, easy routes and handy hints on top travel nessecities. If your planning on travelling this summer and want an easy, eco friendly journey, this guide is essential for your journey!
Age Range: Adults + £15.99
Paperback

A Monster Calls

A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness

The original idea for A Monster Calls came from the late Siobhan Dowd, a brilliant writer of teen fiction who sadly passed away in 2007 before she had time to write this book. Award-winning author Patrick Ness was asked to take Siobhan's spark of an idea and run with it. He has certainly done that.

"The monster showed up after midnight. As they do"

Conor is visited nightly by the monster. It comes from the graveyard behind the house he shares with his mum, but this is a different kind of monster from the one in the nightmares he's been having since his mum became ill.

The monster from the graveyard tells Conor stories from long ago, and these tales lead Conor to confront his nightmare head-on, with life-changing consequences.

A Monster Calls is a beautifully written (and illustrated) novel of two parts. The tales told by the monster have the traditional feel of folk stories - with a twist, while Conor's story is a heartwrenching journey through his mother's illness and his own attempts to deal with the difficulties that brings. The interaction between Conor and the monster is funny and touching and brings the story together seamlessly. The two parts blended together create an intensely moving and gripping book, the only criticism of which is that it's impossible to put down.

Age range: 12+ £12.99 Hardback

No Passengers Beyond This Point

No Passengers Beyond This Point by Gennifer Choldenko
When Finn, India and Mouse are given less than 24 hours to pack up all their belongings and prepare to fly halfway across the country to live with their Uncle, their lives are turned upside down! Upon landing, the three siblings are taken to a strange city where the crowds cheer their names... They have no idea where they are or how to get home, and time is running out! An exciting book detailing the crazy adventures they are up against, as each new chapter reveals a different character's persepctive. With the addition of some mystery and humour, this is a heartwarming story of survival that brings a family together.
Age range: 9-12 £6.99 Paperback

The Usborne Cookbook for Boys

The Usborne Cookbook for Boys by Abigail Wheatley
With over 40 fun recipes paired with helpful illustrations and tasty tips, this is ideal for including all the family in meal times. Though aimed at younger boys, it can be enjoyed by girls and readers of an older age, as it's great for understanding the nutritional value of sweet treats and savoury snacks.
Age range: 8+ £9.99 Hardback

Think of a Link: How to Remember Absolutely Everything

Think of a Link: How to Remember Absolutely Everything by Andy Salmon
Bursting with handy hints and tactful tips from geographical guides to spelling suggestions, this book has great methods for memorising many essentials. These fun and creative ways of revising and remembering facts are accompanied by helpful diagrams, perfect as a gift for inquisitive minds.
Age Range: 8-12 £6.99 Hardback

Pip and Posy: The Super Scooter

Pip and Posy: The Super Scooter by Axel Scheffler
This colourfully depicted book from the award winning illustrator of 'The Gruffalo', Axel Scheffler, shows the heartwarming companionship between Pip and Posy, whilst moderately revealing the values of friendship and sharing. Great bed-time reading for both boys and girls; serves as an inviting book for the very young.
Age Range: 2-5 £7.99 Hardback

The Brilliant World of Tom Gates

The Brilliant World of Tom Gates by L. Pichon
'The Brilliant World of Tom Gates' allows the reader to jump into his world and follow his cheeky antics from school experiances to family mishaps, all comicly detailed in his weird and wonderful journal. This hilarious book is packed with laugh-out-loud stories and is easily relatable for young boys. With the inclusion of fun doodles and cartoons from his many adventures, you won't be able to put it down! Brilliant for 'Wimpy Kid' fans.
Age range: 5-8 £6.99 Paperback

Big Red Bath

Big Red Bath by Julia Jarman
This lively and energetic book makes bathtime a great adventure. This fun read-aloud book includes all of Ben and Bella's furry friends and even a trip into space! Perfect for sharing and enjoyable for all.
Age range: 2-5 £5.99 Paperback

Finn Family Moomintroll

Finn Family Moomintroll by Tove Jansson
Moomintroll and his family and friends have exciting adventures. They find a magical hat that causes mischief, discover an island, survive a terrible thunderstorm and more! Tove Jansson's well-loved stories of the Moomin family are perfect for both boys and girls. Each chapter is a new adventure, giving early readers a sense of accomplishment as they make their way through the book. If you haven't picked up a Moomin book, you should now! You won't be disappointed.
Age range: 5-8 £5.99 Paperback

Rhinos Don't Eat Pancakes

Rhinos Don't Eat Pancakes by Anna Kemp & Sara Ogilvie
The creators of Dogs Don't Do Ballet are back with this funny, heart-warming picture book. No one ever listens to Daisy. When a purple, pancake-eating rhinoceros strolls into her house, her parents are too busy to hear about it. So Daisy decides to talk to the rhino. Boys and girls will love reading about Daisy's friendship with the rhino and the change in Daisy's relationship with her parents.
Age range: 2-5 £5.99 Paperback

Millicent and Meer

Millicent and Meer by Richard Byrne
One day a large wooden box falls into Millicent's garden. Inside is a creature who doesn't know who he is or how he got there. After reading a label on the box, Millicent discovers that the creature is a cat named Meer. Millicent is very excited because she always wanted a cat. But Millicent soon discovers that Meer does some very un-cat like things. After some help from Marvin the cat, Meer learns something very important about himself. Boys and girls will love being in the know about Meer's true identity in this funny story about friendship and family.
Age range: 2-5 £5.99 Paperback

Claude in the City

Claude in the City by Alex T. Smith
Claude is no ordinary dog. He wears a beret and a lovely red jumper. When Mr and Mrs Shinyshoes leave for the day, Claude and his friend, Sir Bobblysock (a sock), go on adventures. They go to a beret shop, to a museum, and to a hospital. Claude even saves the day by stopping a burglary! The black, white, and red illustrations give this book a unique, retro feel. Boys and girls will enjoy reading about such a loveable character.
Age range: 5-7 £4.99 Paperback

Sisters Red

Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce
A red cape billowing in the night breeze, a flick of hair to release the sweet smell of perfume . . . Scarlett and Rosie March know exactly how to lure the werewolves terrorising the girls in their town. They've had first-hand experience with the wolves; Scarlett has the scars to prove it. While Scarlett is happy to devote her life to slaying the beasts that lurk in the night, Rosie isn't so sure, especially when Silas comes back to town. But Silas' return sets off a chain of events that will change all of their lives forever. This new spin on a classic fairy tale will intrigue and delight teenage readers, especially girls who love paranormal romance.
Age range: Teen £6.99 Paperback

Tales from Witchway Wood: Crash 'N' Bang

Tales from Witchway Wood: Crash 'N' Bang by Kaye Umansky
Fans of the Pongwiffy series will love this new book by Kaye Umansky. Filth the Fiend, O'Brian the Lephrechaun and Arthur the Dragon love playing their crash 'n' bang music. After they get themselves a manager and a new lead singer, they decide to enter the Battle of the Bands competition. Unfortunately, with a manager who doesn't really know what he's doing and a Fairy determined to make O'Brian's life miserable, things don't turn out as the band members planned. Will they be able to defeat the competition? Boys and girls will enjoy this hilarious new story.
Age range: 8-11 £5.99 Paperback

Rollo and Ruff

Rollo and Ruff by Mick Inkpen
Rollo notices one day that bits of his favourite mat and his red ball are all over the yard; the only clues to this mystery are a pair of wet footprints and a stinky smell.

Rollo and Little Fluffy Bird find the culprit —Ruff the mouse, who survives on eating oozy, slimy, furry bits of food. The two take pity on sorry little Ruff and befriend him. Using what they have to hand, they come up with a great plan to help Ruff and put a smile on his face.

This heart-warming tale of friendship went down very well in storytime this week with both children and parents! Classic Mick Inkpen! He never fails.
Age range: 3-6yrs £10.99 Hardback

Long Lankin

Long Lankin by Lindsey Barraclough
Local author, Lindsey Barraclough, weaves a tale of suspense and fear in this spine-chilling new novel. Mimi and Cora are sent to live in a small village with their Auntie Ida, but it's clear that Auntie Ida doesn't want the girls around. With the help of two boys from the village, Roger and Peter, Cora soon discovers that a dark mystery surrounds Auntie Ida and her home, Guerdon Hall. Vanishing figures in the cemetary and whispering voices in the house warn Cora of an evil presence reawakening. Will Cora be able to prevent the past from repeating itself? Older readers who enjoy being scared will love this new novel.
Age range: 12+ £10.99 Hardback

Department 19

Department 19 by Will Hill

You might think you've had enough vampire novels to last you an eternity, but we urge you to think again! Will Hill has managed to come up with a book that is so original, fast-paced and thrilling that you'll literally be on the edge of your seat!

Without giving too much away, we can tell you that Department 19 is the official government department which has been protecting us mere mortals from supernatural threats ever since Van Helsing defeated Dracula. Everything Bram Stoker wrote was true, and teenager Jamie Carpenter is about to discover just how dangerous vampires really are. Forget the garlic though, these creatures are tougher than that, and Department 19 is at the cutting edge of high-tech weaponry.

Department 19 is definitely a book for teens - it's fairly bloody, but it's equally excellent for boys and girls, and would be just the thing for a reluctant teen to get their teeth into.

Age Range: Teen/Young Adult. £12.99. Hardback.

Tales of Terror from the Tunnel's Mouth

Tales of Terror from the Tunnel's Mouth by Chris Priestley
For the first time in his life, Robert is taking the train by himself. His stepmother tries to persuade him to take another train after she has an awful premonition, but Robert ignores her. When the train breaks down at the mouth of a dark tunnel, a woman tells Robert a series of strange and scary stories to pass the time as they wait for help. As time goes on and no help arrives, Robert begins to wonder whether there is something more sinister about the seemingly kind woman.

This collection of short stories is perfect for boys and girls who love scary, creepy tales.
Age range: 9-12 £6.99 Paperback

Douglas

Douglas by G.N. Hargreaves
Douglas is an extraordinary dog. He keeps a stamp collection, plays a tuba and enjoys skiing. The one thing that Douglas can't do is have fun. One day Douglas meets Basil the bird who tries to help Douglas have fun. But none of Basil's suggestions seem to work. Will Douglas ever wag his tail and laugh?

The Golden Treasury is currently holding a competition inspired by Douglas. The winner will receive a copy of the picture book as well as a signed drawing by the author himself! For full details, check out our shop blog: http://thegoldentreasury.blogspot.com/
Age range: 2-6 £5.99 Paperback

Will Gallows & the Snake-Bellied Troll

Will Gallows & the Snake-Bellied Troll by Derek Keilty
In this action-packed Western adventure, Will Gallows, an elfling sky cowboy, goes in search of the snake-bellied troll who killed his father. Along the journey to dangerous Deadrock, Will meets several new friends who aid him in his quest for revenge. Can Will and his friends avenge Will's Pa and save the city?

The Western genre meets fantasy in this story about elves, trolls, goblins and dwarves. Boys and girls who love adventure stories will enjoy this brand new novel.
Age range: 9-12 £5.99 Paperback

Humphrey's Tiny Tales: My Pet Show Panic!

Humphrey's Tiny Tales: My Pet Show Panic! by Betty Birney
In this exciting new series aimed at younger boys and girls, Betty Birney takes her famous hampster Humphrey on new adventures. Humphrey's Tiny Tales: My Pet Show Panic! follows Humphrey and his friend Og as they participate in a pet show. Humphrey wants to make his friends proud and win a prize. Will he succeed? Readers already familiar with Humphrey or those who are new to the character will love these charming tales about a classroom pet.

Age range: 5-6 £3.99 Paperback

Ministry of Pandemonium

Ministry of Pandemonium by Chris Westwood
While sketching in his notebook in a cemetery, Ben Harvester meets Mr October, a man of many secrets and faces. Mr October recognises that Ben has a special gift--a gift that Ben must decide to use or ignore. Quickly drawn into a world of lost souls, Ben finds himself in a war against an unspeakable enemy. This imaginative and intriguing book is a perfect choice for both boys and girls.

Age range: 9-12 £6.99 Paperback

Actual Size

Sometimes a book comes along that makes you think "Why has nobody done this before?". Well, Actual Size by Steve Jenkins is one of those books. With beautifully original illustrations, each page shows us just how huge various animals actually are. From an elephant's foot, to the Goliath Birdeater Tarantula and scariest of all, the Great White Shark, we get a true idea of the size of these creatures, from a perspective we have to hope we'll never have in real life! Actual Size is such a great way of introducing children to these animals in a new way, and is really good fun for grown-ups too.

Wolf Won't Bite!

Wolf Won't Bite! by Emily Gravett
These clever three little pigs have caught a Wild Wolf!
They show-off to each other their new wolf tricks, which gradually get more and more crazy - Wolf has the last laugh when they realise that they can't push him to the edge!

Emily Gravett's wonderful illustrative style is at it's best here. Wolf is really put through his paces here. A great twist on the original tale of The Three Little Pigs.

Age range: 2-5 £10.99 Hardback

Pip and the Wood Witch Curse

Pip and the Wood Witch Curse by Chris Mould
For children who love spooky mysteries, Chris Mould's newest book Pip and the Wood Witch Curse is the perfect choice. Pip manages to escape his orphanage life only to end up in Hangman's Hollow--a walled city with no children. Hangman's Hollow is at war with the forest outside, and Pip must work with his new friends to save the children from the creatures of the forest.

Age range: 9-12 £4.99 Paperback

Muncle Trogg

Muncle Trogg by Janet Foxley
Muncle Trogg is a giant. Unlike all the other giants though, Muncle is the size of you and me. He's constantly picked on for being small. But when the giants run into trouble on Mount Grumble, it's Muncle who uses his small size and giant wits to save the day. This hilarious book is perfect for boys and girls aged 7-10.

Age range: 7-10 £5.99 Paperback