Wednesday, 15 August 2012

A trio of thunderous picture books!

 


 Crunchy Croc!
Coco the crocodile is a croc who chomps on the wrong things. With the puppet finger attached you can show her the food she should be munching and crunching. The combination of Sam Lloyd's new paper collage artwork style and the toothy felt animal puppet mouth which can be rotated to chomp any part of the page create an irresistibly interactive reading experience.We recommend this book for children aged 2+ and is currently on sale for £12.99
Daisy's Big Dig!
The people who live in Daisy's street never ever talk to each other. But Daisy has a big plan to bring everyone together- a Digging party... move over David Cameron and the Big Society, Daisy is here to help instead! This lovely story of community spirit is an educational tool whilst incorporating a truly funny tale. Follow Daisy on her quest to host the biggest and best tea party with all her neighbourhood. Perfect for a gift for any children aged 5 or over and currently on sale for £11.99.
Starting School!
A classic tale which is sure to ease any youngsters nerves about to start school this coming September! This picture book, from the awesome Ahlberg pair, follows several children as they start reception class through the first term up until Christmas. Whilst written as a childrens story book it is excellently thought out and very perceptive.We recommend this book for children aged 4 and over, and is currently on sale for £6.99

Sunday, 12 August 2012

Thyme Running Out!

Thyme Running Out, by Panama Oxbridge

Justin Thyme is a self-made billionaire living in a castle overlooking Loch Ness. The day he turns thirteen, he receives an anonymous gift: a fabulous watch with a puzzling message hidden on it. When he tells his father of his plans to build a time machine, the Laird of Thyme reveals tantalising fragments of past espionage and warns his son of a ruthless enemy keeping him under constant surveillance? At first, Justin fails to take Sir Willoughby seriously, but when a stranger arrives claiming to be his long-lost grandfather, Justin is wary - especially after his beloved Nanny insists the old man is an impostor. Suddenly, the race against time is on. Can Justin convert his vintage motorbike into a time machine, rescue his mum and discover the identity of their resident spy in less than a week ...or will the dreaded Thyme Curse claim another life?
This is exciting read is ideal for long haul journeys this summer, a book you won't be able to put down, with real suspense and high pace action!

Age Range: 9-12, £6.99, Paperback

Olivia's Fourth Installment!

Olivia's Enchanted Summer, by Lyn Gardner

Olivia's dreams of performing at Edinburgh Fringe Festival are about to be realised, where every summer performers put on plays, dance and tell jokes with this year being the turn of the magnificent Swan Circus. But Olivia's dream is about to turn into a nightmare as the circus ends up homeless, there's torrential rain and a theif in their midst who's dead set on stealing the spotlight! Can anything salvage Olivia's soggy summer into a truly enchanted one?
Another fab installment from Gardner, this fourth novel does not dissappoint! Full of the usual drama, both on stage and off, this summer sizzler is ideal for budding superstars!

Age Range: 9-12, £5.99, Paperback

Loyal to the End

Soldier Dog, by Sam Angus

Stanley feels invisible to his Dad, who hasn't been the same since the tragic passing of his wife and the emotional farewell to his eldest son, sent off to war. His only real companion is his Dad's prized Rocket. Determined not to be stuck at home with tensions rising between father and son, Stanley runs off to war, enlisting in the army to train as a messenger dog handler, and despite being far too young he's soon heading to France with a great Dane called Bones by his side. As the fighting escalates and Stanley experiences the horrors of war, he comes to realise that the loyalty of his dog is the one thing he can rely on. But his father hasn't given up on him, and extraordinary circumstances will bring them together once more ...
Similar to Morpurgo's 'War Horse', though heartwarming in its own right, this is certainly not one to be missed. A moving tale of loyalty and friendship that can be found in all shapes and sizes.

Age Range: 9-12, £5.99, Paperback

Granny Grabbers: Whizz Bang World

Granny Grabbers: Whizz Bang World, by Charlotte Haptie

Imagine being told you can't eat ice-cream? Or that you can only play with toys that teach? How about having parents that make you revise all day long for the Worldwide Junior Extreme General Knowledge Competition? Sounds awful to me, but thats exactly what Delilah Smart has to do, every day of the week! And with parents far too busy to look after her, she's placed under the care of a childcare robot! Although, this could be exactly what she needs to save her from a life of boredom! Granny Grabbers is determined to teach her all about FUN! But when Happy Home Robotics send in Nanny Deluxe it looks like Delilah's days of eating chocolate cake for breakfast, playing on trampolines and ordering pets of the internet are about to be over....But not without a battle!
This new title from Charlotte Haptie is fun and fearless for boys and girls, bringing together the perfect amount of mischief and mayhem, ideal for a summer read and cetainly one for the school bookbag!

Age Range: 5-8, £5.99, Paperback

The Disasterous Little Dragon!

The Disasterous Little Dragon, by Gillian Johnson

Ever heard of a dragon that can't breathe fire? No, me either....But let me introduce you to Bartholomew! He's been rushed to Monster Hospital by his fierce Aunt Madge as he's got a terrible case of smoke inhalation as he just can't seem to master the art of fire breathing! Can four naughty children - Sylvie, Dylan, Carolyn and Tom - help him, without getting cooked to a crisp by terrifying Aunty Madge? Maybe they can, if there's a princess involved ...
Filled with quirky illustrations, this fun new title from the first in the Monster Hospital Series is remeniscent of Dahl's early novels for young readers! I strongly recommend for tiny tearaways that are just begginning their love of reading, as this will surely keep them glued throughout!

Age Range: 5-8, £4.99, Paperback

Pea's Book of Best Friends

Pea's Book of Best Friends, by Susie Day

When Pea Llewellyn's mum publishes her best selling novel "Mermaid Girls", life as she knows it is all about to change! An exciting new move to London brings about a new city, new bedroom all to herself in the attic and even a new, kind of cool, school uniform! Pea actually quite likes her new life, but every day she is met by an empty seat next to her in class...In the absence of volunteers, Pea is going to have to acquire herself a new best friend!
This charming book highlights the ups and downs of starting a new school, finding your feet and the search for new friends. Pea is a fun and chatty narrater, a great new book for early readers!


Age Range: 5-8, £4.99, Paperback

A Straight Line to My Heart

A Straight Line to My Heart, by Bill Condon

School is finally over, but so is the summer and this means Tiffany has to make some important life decisions. She wants to stay on at the local paper but does she have what it takes to be a real reporter? Then she meets Davey, the only boy who's ever shown interest, could he be the one? Follow Tiffany anwer all these questions and more in this touching and often funny novel in which we learn alongside the protagonist that sometimes words just aren't enough.

Age Range: Teenage, £7.99, Paperback

Theodore Boone: The Accused

Theodore Boone: The Accused, by John Grisham

Theodore Boone is the thirteen year old who knows more about the law than most adult lawyers. He certainly never expected to be the victim of crime himself. But then his bike is vandalised, he's attacked while doing his homework and, worst of all, framed for a robbery. With all suspect fingers pointing towards him, the police start leaning on him hard. What if he's found guilty? His dreams of being a lawyer would surely be shattered.....In a race against time, aided by his renegade uncle Ike, Theo sets out on a mission to track dow the real fellon and reveal the true motivation behind the crimes...
This face paced mystery is a real pager turner, leaving the reader eager to discover the truth along with the charistmatic protagonist. Something to sink your teeth into this summer!


Age Range: Teenage/ Young Adult, £12.99, Hardback

Angel Dust

Angel Dust, by Sarah Mussi

Serafina is one of God's brightest angels, sent to Earth to escort the soul of gangsta Marcus Montague to the after-life. Nothing out of the ordinary for her, but one look at him undoes her. Bound to hell and showing no signs of repenting, how far will she go in order to save him. And what will her love cost her?
An urban love story with a twist, this really is a fantastic page turner! With all the vampire themed teen novels presently out, this is a refreshing new insight into forbidden love for a developing audience!

Age Range: Teenage, £6.99, Paperback

Fun Games for your Little Monsters!


Pom Pom Monster Salon

This cracking little book is all about releasing the inner creative beauty of young ones. From an exciting array of 5 coloured sets of yarn creatures including the bouncy Beehive Betty and her sister, the marvellous Polka Dotty can be created. Included is 85 yards of acryllic yarn, a styling comb, itty-bitty bows, silly teeth and eyes, punch-out accessories and much much more, all to help your little ones master the art of pom-pom making. 

Age Range: 8+, £8.99, Activity Book

The Most Amazing Thumb Doodle Book!


The Most Amazing Thumb Doodle Book

Possibly the best book we have ever had in the shop (in my opinion)... The ink pad, the pen, the instructions and the inspiration are all included in this marvellous creation, all you need to add is the fingers. Learn to draw monkeys, fish. bugs, rock stars, mountain climbers, and more. It really is the greatest thumb book ever created. Hands down!

Age Range: 6+, £6.99, Activity Book

Fun Girlie Activities!


Things for Girls to Make and Do

This delightful book is packed with princesses, mermaids, fairies, hearts and flowers. What more could a young girl want? There's hundreds of wild and wicked things to make to keep your little princess busy, including fluttering fingerbugs and your very own princess door sign. From the princess sash to the funky summer basket your little girl will be the talk of the town! 

Age Range: 5+, £7.99, Paperback

Mr Gum!


Mr Gum and the Goblins, by Andy Stanton

Mr Gum is back! In this third hilarious story, read by Andy Stanton, Mr Gum and the hideous Billy William the Third are once more mucking things up for everyone. They're scheming and hatching their bad plans up on Goblin Mountain. Can the brave travellers make it past the Three impossible challenges of Goblin Mountain and save the town from a fate worse than something very bad indeed? This CD tells an epic tale of courage, valour and plain idiocy! We recommend this 1 hr 15 min story for children aged 5-8 years and is currently on sale for £6.99... well worth a buy!

Age Range: 5-8, £6.99, Audio CD

Angelina Ballerina

 The Angelina Ballerina Story Collection, by Katharine Holabird an read by Finty Williams

Yes you guessed it, the infamous Angelina Ballerina makes our review list. This wonderful and classic collection of stories encompasses Angelina's dreams of stardom and fame. She's a delightfully stubborn and optimistic young mouse, who's determined to be the greatest ballerina in Mouseland. This 1 hour audio collection encompasses a world full of joys and problems that all children know and relate to; from jealousy and friendship to rivalry and performing thrills, Angelina's life is always exciting!

Age Range: 2-6, £6.99, Audio CD

Saturday, 11 August 2012

Michael Morpurgo's Classic Collection


The Classic Collection, by Michael Morpurgo

This wonderful collection includes 3 amazing tales from the master of storytelling; The Dancing Bear, The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips and Alone on a Wide Wide Sea. Over 10 hours of listening will keep you poised on your seat to absorb the latest genius writing of Michael Morpurgo. From the horrific tales of World War 2 to the struggles of an abandoned bear cub who's adopted by a lonely orphan child, this collection is truly gripping. The perfect accompaniment to a long car journey or as a thought-provoking piece of literature for your child.

Age Range: 9-12, £14.99, Audio







Fun Activity Books!

Are We Nearly There Yet?

This fun-filled activity book is sure to keep any bored child content on a long and tiresome journey. From puzzles to complete, things to spot and colour, this book really could'nt get much better. If you're fed up of the dreaded question "are we nearly there yet?" then this book is the rememdy to your problem. 

Age Range: 5+, £5.00, Paperback









Sunday, 13 May 2012

Uncle Trev and his Whistling Bull

Uncle Trev and his Whistling Bull, by Jack Lasenby

Uncle Trev is the kind of Uncle we all wish we had grwoing up! Rife with stories about the animals on his farm and the many mishaps he found himself in, each tale brings about laugh-out-loud comedy and unbelievably stupendous incidents! (Have YOU ever heard of a whistling bull?!?)

This is a turly charming tale, hilarious to read and a fantastic gift idea for developing readers! Never a dull moment from Jack Lasenby's latest novel, a true teller-of-tales!

Age Range: 9-12, £6.99, Paperback

Secrets of the Tides

Secrets of the Tides, by Hannah Richell

Every family has secrets; some small, some funny, some big, some harmful. Others are so terrible that they must be hidden away from the ones you love... If they ever came out it would surely tear a family apart. And the Tides are a family full of secrets.

Upon returning to Clifftops, the rural family house high on the Dorset coastline, youngest daughter Dora is keen for a fresh start and a new beginning. But can long-held secrets ever really be forgiven? And even if you can forgive, can you ever really learn to love again? A compelling debut from Richell, beautifully written and woven with a dark thread of suspense!

Age Range: Adult, £9.99, Hardback

The Flying Man

The Flying Man, by Roopa Farooki

Meet Maqil, Mike, Mehmet, Mikhail and Miguel. One character... A chancer, a charlatan and a born survivor. A damaged man in search of himself, creating a new identity and nationality in each country he makes his home, abandoning wife and children for a taste of the high life. He's a compulsive gambler - driven to lose at least as much as he gains, in games of chance, and in life.

From the moment he was delivered in Pakistan alongside his still born twin he has proven his worth and his right for survival in exciting escapades and brushes with the law, keeping you on the edge of your seat in this page turner. But his chequered history is catching up with him: his tracks have been uncovered and his latest wife, his children, his creditors and former business associates, all want to pin him down. But even at the end, Maqil just can't resist trying it on; he's still playing his game, and the game won't be over until it's been won.

A truly thrilling novel, managing the emotion with humour and compassion throughout. A fantastic novel about a man who fits in everywhere and nowhere, causing harm and yet inspiring love.

Age Range: Adult, £16.99, Hardback

Sunday, 6 May 2012

Classic Adventures of the Bear from Darkest Peru!

Paddington Races Ahead, by Michael Bond

Somehow Paddington always seems to find himself in very odd situations! Though when he gets into a spot of bother with some shaving cream, causes a London bus to be evacuated, and is mistaken for a famous Peruvian hurdler by a film crew, we're left wondering if this one situation that he won't be able to get out of?
Another mischevous misadventure from Paddington, and once again delightfully written from the man behind the legend! Never a dull moment with our favourite bear!


Age Range: 5-8, £10.99, Hardback

A Boy and a Bear in a Boat

A Boy and a Bear in a Boat, by Dave Shelton

A boy and a bear head out to sea equipped with a suitcase, a comic book and a ukulele but are soon faced with 'unforseen anomalies' including turbulent stormy seas and a terrifying sea monster! Don't be fooled by the seemingly simple title, this book is packed with original and entertaining narrative, including the worlds most dangerous sandwich! It's a hilarious page-turner with beautifully artistic illustrations for early readers.

An amazing debut from a brand new storyteller, this is a perfect edition for your bookshelf!

Age Range: 5-8, 10.99, Hardback

Amazing Esme and The Sweet Shop Circus

Amazing Esme and The Sweet Shop Circus, by Tamara Macfarlane

Esme is seriously bored with all the work and practice her mum keeps insisiting she does in order to perfect her circus performance. So NOT fun! So, when she decides to include animals into her show, with the help of her cousins at Maclinkey Castle who have all kinds of cool animals, everything's looking up! Right? WRONG!

With locals claiming the inclusion of animals is cruel and with the furry performers not exactly showcasing their full potential, disaster strikes and she's banned from performing! But will her punishment of running the lowly sweet treats stand give her new inspiration and help her lure back her public...?

A fabulously fun sequel to Macfarlane's best selling "Amazing Esme". Totally tantalising and tastebud teasing!

Age Range: 5-8, £9.99, Hardback

72 Hours

72 Hours, by Frank Pope

August 5th 2005. On a secret mission to an underwater military installation thirty miles off the coast of Kamchatka, Russian Navy submersible AS-28 ran into a web of cables and stuck fast. With 600 feet of freezing water above them, there was no escape for the seven crew.

Trapped in a titanium tomb, all they could do was wait as their air supply slowly dwindled. For more than twenty-four hours the Russian Navy tried to reach them. Finally - still haunted by the loss of the nuclear submarine Kursk five years before - they requested international assistance....Can the Royal Navy help? And would they be reached in time?

This is an edge-of-your seat, real- life story of one of the most dramatic rescue missions of recent years!

Age Range: Adult, £18.99, Hardback

Unlocking the Mysteries of Time Perception

Time Warped, by Claudia Hammond

In this day and age, time seems to rule our lives. Most of us have busy schedules, dictated by appointments, hours, minutes that structure our day. But how much do you understand about time, and is it possible to retrain our brains and improve our relationship with it?

Drawing on the latest research from the fields of psychology, neuroscience and biology, and using original research on the way memory shapes our understanding of time, the acclaimed writer and broadcaster Claudia Hammond delves into the mysteries of time perception. Including a remarkable array of characters willing to go to great extremes to challenge our perception of time in the interests of research. Although it may appear heavy-going to some readers, it is undoubtably a fascinating read worth invensting in!

Age Range: Adult, £14.99, Paperback

Britains Favourite Creatures and the People Who Love Them

The Beauty In The Beast, by Hugh Warwick

A bewitching book about some of the UK's best loved animals and wildlife, told from the perspective of animal enthusiasts throughout the country. Ranging from the water-vole woman from Shropshire, to the owl ambassador from Somerset this is a charming book for all animal lovers.

An affection homage to all animals big and small, incluing otters, dragonflies and even adders, this shouldn't be missed!

Age Range: Adult, £14.99, Hardback

L is for...London!

An Alphabet of London, by Christopher Brown

From the city that put jellied eels on the map, Brown captures a characteristically fun and alluring capital in his new hardcover. A charmingly illustrated book depicting all thats lovely about London, highlighting the individuality about our much-loved city.

Great for children eager to learn about the history of our streets with simplistic alphabetised landmarks, legends, personalities and historic events, though also includes humurous accounts from Brown's own take on London, its suitable for older readers too! (And don't miss the foreword from Jasper Conran!) Verdict: Brilliantly British!


Age Range: General, £12.95, Hardback


Well, We Are Hosting The Olympics!

The Book of London Place Names, by Caroline Taggart

Ever wondered if Cheapside really is cheap? Or did you know that Euston Road was built because there were too many cows on Oxford Street? Taggart's book is filled with odd and fascinating facts like these, taking us on a trip down narrow lanes and cobbled streets brimming with history. From famous landmarks to lost palaces and ancient villages swallowed up as the city grew, this is a great idea for a gift and a superb read for all London lovers!

With the 2012 Olympics coming up, why not impress your friends with some captivating anecdotes from the city that really puts us on the map!

Age Range: Adult, £9.99, Hardback

An Artists Year In London

London, You're Beautiful, by David Gentleman

It's easy to take London for granted, with our hectic train stations, non-stop hustle and bustle of city life and the dilemma as to whether we should risk leaving our umbrella at home or not! But David Gentleman has been drawing London all his adult life and has spent his days looking afresh at London, detailing our capital city throughout the year. Reflecting his love for the city he has lived in for over 60 years, Gentleman's art mirrors all that's beautiful and definining in London, from quaint Primose Hill to eclectic Camden Town, including our historic infastructure.

His charming illustrations breathe new life into a city we can often neglect in our busy day to day lives. Every painitng and sketch reveals a hidden beauty of London, as he details the changes from spring to summer, autumn to winter. A brilliant book to celebrate our unique capital!

Age Range: Adult/ General, £20.00, Paperback

Saturday, 5 May 2012

The Hueys In The New Jumper

The New Jumper, by Oliver Jeffers

Meet the Hueys. They're all the same. Nothing different, nothing new...until the day one of them kints a nice new jumper...How will the other Hueys react? And what does this new individuality mean for the once quirky and uncannily similar group of characters?

This new book from award winning Oliver Jeffers is just as brilliantly written and illustrated as his last, no doubt a predecessor to his next fantastic picture book!

Age Range: 0-5, £10.99, Hardback


The Dunderheads Behind Bars!

The Dunderheads Behind Bars, by Paul Fleischman

Working as an extra on a film set? Sounds like fun for a school holiday! Only not everything seems to going to plan, as they turn up on set to find the dreaded Miss Breakbone, and adding mayhem to the madness they attempt to outdo the mystery villain! But with Spider being faced with the prospect of being locked behind bars, is this one mystery too much for the Underdogs?

Another riproaring adventure from the crime solving trouble makers, this hilariously charming and beautifully illustrated story has just the right amount of chaos and charisma to serve as a fantastic sequel to Fleischman's 'The Dunderheads'!

Age Range: 6-12, £11.99, Hardback


Goldilocks and Just The One Bear

Goldilocks and Just The One Bear, by Leigh Hodgkinson

Have you ever wondered what happened to the bears after the "Goldilocks incident"? Well, this tale wonderfully depicts the Little Bear, all grown up and lost in the Big City! But will he stumble across a house of his own...and how exactly does he like his porridge?

This characteristically funny picture book from Hodgkinson doesn't fail to put a smile on your face, with a wickedly fun twist at the end, leaving you content with the sequel of a classic childhood tale!

Age Range: 0-5, £10.99, Hardback

This Made Us Laugh!

Weird Things Customers Say In Bookshops, by Jen Campbell

Ever overheard a ridiculous conversation on the shop floor that you couldn't quite believe? Or perhaps you've found yourself faced with a nonsensical request at work that has become a hilarious anecdote with your friends for weeks after. Well, we certainly have!

Thoroughly researched and collected over the years, Jane Campell perfectly captures the weird and the wonderfully weird questions asked in bookshops across the world. A witty book ideal for booksellers and book lovers, this laugh-out-loud pager turner reveals the obscure and the inexplicable querries that we could all be guilty of! Why not pick up a copy today, and see if you can spot yourself amongst the madness!


Age Range: Adult/ General, £7.99, Hardback

If Not...Then You'll Like This!

The Things We Did For Love, by Natasha Farrant 

France, 1944, and two teens, Arianne and Luc, are in the midst of falling headily into love; their first love. However, this idyllic love story takes a dramatic turn for the worse, as German forces are closing in and Luc is faced with the agonising reality of entering the war as a soldier, risking life and love. And with Romy rivalling for Arianne's affection, he's willing to go to any extreme to remove Luc from the picture....Can they survive the battle for freedom and true love?

Set against the historical back drop of the French Resistance, Farrant's novel reveals the heartbreak and betrayal entangled in this page turning tale of a love triangle destined for heartache.

Age Range: Teenage, £9.99, Hardback

If You Like The Gothic Genre, Then You'll Love This...

Sweetly, by Jackson Pearce

A dare between three siblings that spiralled into a deadly game, leaving only two survivors, begins this haunting tale. Twelve years later and cast out by their stepmother, teens Ansel and Gretchen finally find a sweet haven when taken in by Sophia Kelly at her sweet shop.

 Though not all is well for long in this sleepy Southern town...with Gretchen's new romance revealing bittersweet truths on the eerie past kept secret by Sophia, the twins are forced to confront their childhood fears. A fantastic twist on the classic Grimm's fable, we find them faced with the dark forest, witches, and heartache, this is a page turner for all teens!

Age Range: Teenage, £6.99, Paperback

Saturday, 31 March 2012

Fungus the Bogeyman by Raymond Briggs

Deep in the tunnels of Bogeydom, Fungus is getting ready for another night as a Bogeyman.  After a restless day's sleep (bed too dry, not enough slime), waking up to a miserable sunny evening and going to work is the last thing Fungus feels like doing.  However, being a responsible husband to Mildew and father to Mould,  Fungus takes the long journey Up Top, where he begins his night of Bogling.  Creating boils, making things go 'bump' in the night and blocking disgustingly clean lavatories are all in a night's work for Fungus.The problem is, is Fungus doing a good enough job?

For those of you of a *ahem* certain age, Fungus the Bogeyman will likely be a familiar and fondly remembered character.  Now in his 35th year, Fungus has lost none of his appeal, in fact he may fit into the children's book world even better today than he did in 1977. This anniversary edition is a perfect way of introducing Raymond Briggs' wonderfully revolting Fungus to a new generation, or for mums and dads to reminisce about the days when they would read about slime, boils and bogeys with glee!


Age range 5-10. £7.99. Penguin

Department 19: The Rising by Will Hill

The Rising picks up the story of Jamie Carpenter and his friends not long after the extraordinary and bloody events on Lindisfarne, which ended book 1 of this fantastic series.

Jamie is now a fully-fledged Department 19 operator - and for those who don't know, Department 19 is the government department responsible for the control of supernatural threats.  Along with Lindisfarne survivor Kate, and his vampire girlfriend Larissa, Jamie forms part of one the top D19 operator squads. When a series of gruesome murders are followed with the mysterious threat 'HE RISES', the whole of Department 19 are on high alert.  The message is clear: the oldest and most feared vampire of all time, Dracula,  is about to return, and the department have no doubt as to the havoc he will wreak on the human population if he regains his strength.

All the while, Jamie is struggling to cope with the death of his close friend and mentor, Frankenstein, as well as coming to terms with the difficulties in his relationship with Larissa. He needs to put aside his personal demons and deal with the threat, but will it be too late?

If you enjoyed the first Department 19, you will definitely not be disappointed by this fast-paced, gripping and just-as-bloody sequel. With revelations galore and an ending that will knock your socks off, book 3 can't come too soon as far as we're concerned!  And if you haven't read Department 19, well, why on earth not?!

Age 13+ Harper Collins £12.99

The Bumper Book of London by Becky Jones and Claire Lewis

Now that we've had some sunny days, lots of us have found ourselves itching to emerge from our winter hibernation and get outside for some fun in the fresh air!

The Bumper Book of London is the perfect companion for your adventures. Packed full of exciting ideas for days out, handy maps and fascinating facts, this book has enough in it to keep you busy all spring, and all summer.  And don't worry, with lots of indoor attractions too, there will still be plenty to do on those inevitable rainy days.

Becky Jones and Claire Lewis are also the authors of London Adventure Walks and know the area like the back of their hand, so this book is definitely worth having if you're short of ideas and want to get out and about this Easter.

Age 5-15, PB, Frances Lincoln, £9.99

Thursday, 29 March 2012

Books You've Always Meant to Read - Pride and Prejudice


In the spirit of the new adults fiction section in store, I have chosen to review one of my favourite novels; Pride and Prejudice. An unforgettable read, I fell in love with this novel whilst studying it at school
Arguably Jane Austen’s most famous and popular novel, Pride and Prejudice is a must read for all lovers of classic prose. This definitive piece of literature, first published in 1813 is still popular and relevant for today’s contemporary readers, with its beautifully written plot resonating with the reader long after they have put it down.
Following the tumultuous love lives of the five Bennett daughters, headed by the well-loved heroine Elizabeth and driven by the empty headed Mrs Bennett, this creatively woven novel  includes themes of social class and wealth as they are each faced with their own often humorous dilemmas. Though the young women are not affluent in wealth, they certainly are in wit and intelligence, as the reader will easily be able to relate to them. Not forgetting the proud and prominent character of Mr Darcy, this novel includes every vital ingredient needed to create the perfect page turner.
A vivid and heart-rending read, it is brimming with entertaining and often poignant moments that will keep the reader engaged throughout. Not to be deterred with its label as a classic or ‘chick-lit’, I can truly recommend this to any book worms or readers in need of a simply beautiful read; they can’t get much better than this.

Saturday, 10 March 2012

Small and Tall Tales of Extinct Animals

Small and Tall Tales of Extinct Animals, by Helene Rajcak

Gaint Beavers? Dwarf Hippos? Sea Cows? Unheard of, right? Wrong! All these animals existed many years ago before their species died out. Find out more about these creatures and many others in this fascinating book documenting their stories, complete with drawings bringing them back to life. Buy it now whilst there's £1 off!

Age Range: 6-12, Hardback, £14.99

Seasons

Seasons, by Blexbolex

This beautiful book is filled with gorgeous illustrations bursting with bright colours and bold shapes highlighting all the things we love about the seasons. From winter chestnuts to spring swallows this book covers all the beauties we witness and experience during the changes of the seasons.

Age Range: Children/ Juvenile, Hardback, £12.99

Dog Loves Drawing

Dog Loves Drawing, by Louise Yates

Louise Yates' latest book is the winner of the Roald Dahl's Funny Prize and its clear to see why with its colourful and exciting images that come to life on the page. A great way to encourage children to explore their imaginations run wild...just like dogs!

Age Range: 0-5, Paperback, £5.99

Don't Put Your Pants On Your Head, Fred!

Don't Put Your Pants On Your Head, Fred!, by Caryl Hart

Fred is always in a muddle getting dressed, he just can't get it right! Will the Queen be able to help him or will he wind up causing hassle in the castle? This funny book is laugh out loud and easy to read with its lively animation and rhythmic sentences. Perfect for any mischevious child who just can't figure out where his pants go!

Age Range: 0-5, Paperback, £5.99

Croc and Bird

Croc and Bird, by Alexis Deacon 

Two eggs hatch together. One's a bird. One's a crocodile. Surely they're not brothers?

This stunning book follows the story of these two characters and how they teach each other their individual skills. A touching tale of how family ties aren't always so obvious to everyone but can be found right under your nose!

Age Range: 0-5, Hardback, £10.99

The Big Book of Monsters

The Big Book of Monsters, by Jenny Arthur and Maggie Bateson

Help find the partying monsters under the bed and around the house in this vibrant and colourful pop-up book. The pull out tabs and lift up flaps are great for kids to get involved in reading whilst the smiley and bright characters mean there's no longer a reason to be afraid of monsters!

Age Range: 0-5, Hardback, £9.99

My Mum is Fantastic

My Mum is Fantastic, by Nick Butterworth

This classic book from Nick Butterworth is one of a series praising family members, we've heard of Brilliant Dad and Wonderful Grandma; now its Mum's turn! Mums truly are fantastic and you're guaranteed to see something of your own mum in these beautifully illustrated pages. Lets all praise our FANTASIC Mums!

Age Range: 0-5, Paperback, £5.99

My Mum is Beautiful

My Mum is Beautiful, by Jessica Spanyol

This sweet and touching book is a new title from Jessica Spanyol listing the reasons why mum is beautiful. From her wonderful snuggles to the toys in her bath this picture book shows us how its the little things that makes mums beautiful.

Age Range: 0-5, Hardback, £11.99

Peppa Pig: My Mummy

Peppa Pig: My Mummy

This brand new book from the Peppa Pig collection sees Peppa highight all the things she loves about her mummy, such as jumping in muddy puddles with her. A perfect present on Mothers Day making us all think of what it is about our mums that make them so special.

Age Range: 0-5, Hardback, £4.99

My Mum's The Best

My Mum's The Best, by Rosie Smith

This funny and artistic book shows us how the mothers in the animal kingdom teach their babies important skillls...but do they remind you of anyone? Whether wild or tame, all mothers have skills to be passed on- that's why they're the best!  Perfect to read along with stunning drawings, this book is unmissable for mothers day!

Age Range: 0-5, Paperback, £5.99