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Polly and the Puffin
Awoken by a sudden crash in the middle of the night, Polly is surprised to find an injured little puffin lying on the floor. Together, at their cottage by the sea, Polly and her mum look after the bird and nurse it back to health. But what will Polly do when the time comes to say goodbye and her feathered friend must return to his own flock…
Page Count: 96
Genre: Everyday life Themes: Seaside, friendship, animals 'a word about books' says…"An adorable early reader about the gentle relationship between a girl and the puffin that she rescues. Beautifully written by Colgan and with charming illustrations by Docherty, readers will quickly fall in love with Neil the iced-bun eating puffin."
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PramBusters!
Malik is heading for another day at summer camp. But today is raining and he and his friends will be stuck in the animal barn all day. The teachers task the children with designing a pram, not just any pram, the ultimate baby pram. This sounds like a job for the PramBusters…
Page Count: 96
Genre: Everyday life Themes: Friendship, school, dyslexia friendly 'a word about books' says…"Anne Fine has produced again, with an imaginative read full of warmth and wit. It truly captures the notion that taking part is more important than winning. Great for emerging reads as the chapters are short, there are plenty of colourful illustrations and there are delightful extras.”
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The Princess in Black
Princess Magnolia has a secret. When she is not being a princess she dons her black cape and mask and heads outside of the castle walls to fight monsters. When her glitter-stone rings and alerts her to a monster situation in the presence of a nosey duchess, can Princess Magnolia slip away and return before the duchess becomes suspicious and discovers her double identity...
Page Count: 96
Genre: Adventure Themes: Monsters 'a word about books' says…"Princess meets superhero in this action-packed, kick-ass read. And if this one is a hit, there are plenty more adventures with The Princess in Black available to satisfy wanna-be superhero princesses."
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The Pumpkin Project
Lottie’s home-life is a mess and school isn’t exactly fun either. When her class are given a project to complete she is desperate to come up with a plan to beat class bully Penelope Pembleton-Puce. Lottie’s grandpa has an idea…can they grow the biggest pumpkin ever in thirty four days…
Page Count: 160
Genre: Everyday life Themes: Family, bullying, illness, school, loss, everyday life, personal & social issues 'a word about books' says…”An uplifting and heart-warming tale that tackles some of the big issues that young children face. Full of fun and imagination, Lottie shows what is possible with love and support.”
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Puppy Diary #1: The Great Toy Rescue
It’s Archie’s first day at doggy daycare and it is going great. But when Archie goes to get his favourite toy, Foxy, out of his backpack, Foxy has vanished. And it turns out that the other dogs toys have vanished too. Can Archie and his friends solve the mystery of the missing toys…
Page Count: 96
Genre: Adventure Themes: Animals, friendship, humour a word about books' says…”This is a lovely, accessible read for young readers. Written in the form of a diary entry; an enjoyable and perfectly pitched book for those readers that are taking their first reading steps into chapter books.”
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Puppy Diary #3: The Pupstars
Archie is about to have the best day ever at doggy daycare. The most famous pup in the world is in town to film his brand new commercial. But when disaster strikes on set and the star goes off in a pup-huff, can Archie and his friends save the day and become pup-stars?
Page Count: 96
Genre: Adventure Themes: Animals, friendship, humour 'a word about books' says…”Packed full of doggy humour and pup-themed puns. Dog lovers will delight in Archie’s adventures and will laugh-out-loud at the views of the world as seen through a dog’s eyes.”
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The Questioneers #1: Rosie Revere and the Raucous Riveters
Rosie Revere loves engineering projects and she is going to need all of her engineering excellence to complete her latest project. Star painter June is facing the prospect of being unable to enter the art contest at the Blue River Creek Festival. Struggling for ideas, Aunt Rose and the Raucous Riveters need help and they know exactly who to ask. But with only two days until Art-A-Go-Go can Rosie come up with an incredible invention to solve the painting problem…
Page Count: 144
Genre: Adventure Themes: STEM, friendship, family, humour 'a word about books' says…”Full of ambitious plans, teamwork, lots of excellent engineering and a fantastic female role-model, this first in a news series is a most delightful read."
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The Questioneers #2: Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants
Ada Twist loves asking questions. Answers lead to more questions and her brain is always a whirr. Her latest investigation into her brother’s stinky trainers is interrupted by a panicking Rosie whose Uncle Ned is having a problem with his helium pants and is danger of floating away. With a mindful of ideas, can Ada and her friends come up with a plan to get him down...
Page Count: 144
Genre: Adventure Themes: STEM, friendship, family, humour 'a word about books' says…”Andrea Beatty and David Roberts do what they do best, telling a funny science-themed adventure story that includes lots of fascinating facts and will get young readers enthusiastic about science."
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Rabbit & Bear #1: Rabbit's Bad Habits
When Bear is rudely woken up from his hibernation by a thief stealing his food he is surprised to find that it is snowing outside and decides to build a snowman. Grumpy, poo-eating Rabbit wants to build a snowman too and he knows that it has to be better than Bear’s. But when hungry Wolf comes along and quite fancies rabbit-pie for dinner, Rabbit might need a friend in Bear…
Page Count: 112
Genre: Humour Themes: Friendship, animals, science 'a word about books' says…"A read packed with things young children will love - snowmen, a friendly bear, a know-it-all rabbit, a rather angry wolf and poo. Rabbit & Bear is a laugh-out-loud tale full of warmth and heart with valuable lessons on friendship, kindness and sharing."
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Rabbit & Bear #2: The Pest in the Nest
Spring has sprung, the sun is shining and Rabbit has been rudely awoken by a terrible noise. If it isn’t Bear’s snoring then it is the pesky woodpecker with his "Bang! Bang! Bang!" from up in the tree. It seems there is no escape from the noise for Rabbit, something must be done…
Page Count: 112
Genre: Humour Themes: Friendship, animals, feelings, empathy 'a word about books' says…"Julian Gough has done it again with another laugh-out-loud read full of charm and warmth. A great read for exploring different feelings and what you can do when something makes you feel grumpy or when something is annoying you.”
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Rabbit & Bear #3: Attack of the Snack
Look out, look out, there’s a killer owl about and it will gobble you up and burp out your bones. Or at least that is what Rabbit is convinced is going to happen. Can Rabbit uncover the mystery of the thing that dropped into the lake and has made it the worst day ever…
Page Count: 112
Genre: Humour Themes: Friendship, animals, first impressions, acceptance 'a word about books' says…”The two friends are back in a read that is packed with humour, important messages about friendship, first impressions and acceptance, and a big dollop of blueberry poo.”
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Rabbit & Bear #5: A Bad King is a Sad Thing
There’s a new arrival in Rabbit and Bear’s valley and he wants to be in charge. Icebear quickly declares himself King and demands that the animals build him an ice palace. When Bear cannot think of a solution to the problem, Rabbit sets off to seek out Wolf for advice. Will Wolf have the answer or do the animals need to look within themselves for the solution to defeating Icebear…
Page Count: 112
Genre: Humour Themes: Friendship, animals, bullying, bravery 'a word about books' says…”I absolutely love these books, they are one of my favourite series for readers who are transitioning from picture to chapter books. With an easy to follow story, wonderful illustrations and sized for small hands, they really are perfect in every single way."
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Real Pigeons Fight Crime
When a town is overrun with mischief and wrong-doings there is only one group needed to save the day. Meet the crime-fighting bunch of pigeons with a unique set of skills...super-strong Frillback, stretchy Tumbler, navigational whizz Homey, master of disguise Rock and their leader Grandpouter. Can these feathered friends fight crime without getting their feathers in a flap...
Page Count: 204
Genre: Humour, crime, mystery Themes: Animals, teamwork, bravery 'a word about books' says…”Pigeons take centre-stage in this laugh-out-read that sees a group of feathered friends involved in madcap adventures. After reading this you will never look at pigeons the same way again."
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Safari Pug: The Dog Who Walked on the Wild Side
Lady Miranda’s pet dog Pug would be quite happy leading a dog’s life but unfortunately for him his owner has other ideas. Following a rather scary nightmare about a lion and realising that Pug is absolutely terrified, Lady Miranda has decided that Pug should meet one of the big cats and overcome his fear. And so, with Pug dressed in ranger gear it is time to head out on safari...
Page Count: 112
Genre: Adventure Themes: Animals, humour, bravery, fear 'a word about books' says…”Another funny caper from Laura James as Pug finds himself off an adventure again through none of his own choosing. This fast-paced and funny story will be a huge hit with animal lovers."
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Santa Claude
Claude has had a busy week in the run-up to Christmas; rescuing police inspectors, singing carols, sorting letters and making wreaths. When Claude accidentally kidnaps Santa Claus he faces a race against time to do one more good deed. Can Claude save Christmas…
Page Count: 96
Genre: Adventure Themes: Humour, animals, Christmas 'a word about books' says…”A fabulous Christmas adventure full of humour and plenty of Christmas fun and cheer. The quirky red and white illustrations are a delight and the colours just constantly made me think of candy canes. This is the perfect feel-good Christmas read.”
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Shark and Bot #1
When Australian Shark and American Bot meet at the park they quickly realise have nothing in common, except perhaps the inability to make new friends. When a bully turns up at the park, the two need to find a way to unite if they are to be allowed to play on the same ‘turf’. Can Shark and Bot come up with a plan or is their friend ‘ship’ destined to sink…
Page Count: 96
Genre: Graphic novel Themes: Humour, animals, friendship, bullying 'a word about books' says…”A delightful addition to the selection of graphic novels for newly independent readers. It is great to have two characters that are so wildly different finding a way to connect when it seems that all they have in common are their differences."
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Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam: Up, Up and Away!
Meet Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam; bakers extraordinaire and mystery solvers. Up, Up and Away is three stories in one…Red Rocket is playing pranks on Race Day, a jewel thief lands the boys in some very dodgy disguises, and a mystery parcel causes all manner of bother…
Page Count: 128
Genre: Fantasy, crime, mystery Themes: Friendship, animals, humour, food 'a word about books' says…”These laugh-out-loud short stories will grab the attention of the most reluctant readers. Funny and fast-paced, readers will delight in Shifty McGifty and Sam’s adventures.”
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Shiny Pippin and the Broken Forest
Bad things are happening in Fun Springs. Three things are certain - the water has all gone, the animals are disappearing and something is definitely not right with the forest. It is up to Pippin and her forest friends to solve the mystery and in doing so defeat the evil Doctor who hides in the Old Laboratory hidden deep within the forest…
Page Count: 272
Genre: Adventure, fantasy, mystery, crime Themes: Humour, animals, family, friendship, magic, nature, monsters 'a word about books' says…”Oh what an enjoyable and charming read this is packed with adventure and mystery and with lovely messages on friendship and bravery. This warm-hearted and funny story will have young readers laughing out loud."
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Speedy Monkey
The rainforest is full of many wonderful creatures; toucans, red-footed tortoises, sloths, jaguars, anacondas, and then there’s Speedy. Speedy loves swinging through the trees, exploring. He longs for one of the animals to join in a game with him but all they want is peace and quiet. When a storm threatens all the animals and they need to act fast, Speedy is nowhere to be found…
Page Count: 96
Genre: Adventure Themes: Friendship, animals, differences 'a word about books' says…"A very lively story featuring an energetic monkey, a colourful cast of rainforest animals, and a valuable lesson in being loved for who you are.”
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Splash Day!
All the children have been working really hard and as a special reward the teachers have everything ready for a Splash Day. Buckets have been filled, bathers are on, inflatables are ready, water pistols are filled, towels have been hung on the climbing frame and the teachers are ready. There’s only one thing left to do…a blow on the teacher’s whistle to start the fun and games…
Page Count: 80
Genre: Humour Themes: School, everyday life, rhyme, dyslexia friendly 'a word about books' says…"Acclaimed author and illustrator Nick Sharratt tells a story of fun times and plenty of splishing, splashing and sploshing. After reading this, young readers will be left wanting their own Splash Day at school."
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Squishy McFluff #1: The Invisible Cat!
When Ava finds a cat in the vegetable patch of her garden they soon become the best of friends. Yes, Squishy McFluff might be invisible, but that won’t stop him and Ava having all sorts of fun and causing all manner of mischief…
Page Count: 80
Genre: Everyday life Themes: Friendship, animals, rhyme, humour 'a word about books' says…"A very cute rhyming story that makes for a great read-a-loud as long as you can do it without laughing. A read that is brilliant fun and a must read for any child who has ever had an imaginary friend.”
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Squishy McFluff The Invisible Cat #3: Meets Mad Nana Dot
Mischief and mayhem follow Ava and Squishy everywhere. With mum about to have a baby, they are taken to Mad Nana Dot’s for a sleepover. A day out with Nana sees the duo causing colourful mischief at the hairdressers, an accident at the post box and confusing a fishmonger!
Page Count: 80
Genre: Everyday life Themes: Animals, family, friendship, rhyme, humour 'a word about books' says…”This is another delightful addition to the Squishy McFluff series. It is full of warmth, heart and plenty of humour. A must read for any child who has ever had an imaginary friend.”
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Squishy McFluff The Invisible Cat #5: Seaside Rescue
Ava is excited. It is July, the sun is shining and it is time for a holiday to the beach! There’s sand to dig, sea to splash in, ice-creams to eat and rock-pools to search. But what will happen when Squishy McFluff gets into a spot of bother and finds himself drifting out to sea? Will Squishy float away and be lost forever or can Ava come up with a plan…
Page Count: 80
Genre: Everyday life Themes: Animals, family, friendship, rhyme, humour, seaside 'a word about books' says…"Trips to the seaside are always so much fun. This utterly charming seaside adventure to the beach with Ava and her invisible cat Squishy McFluff is sure to be a hit with young readers."
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Squishy McFluff The Invisible Cat #6: Big Country Fair
Ava is really excited as it is the Big Country Fair and she plans on winning the Prettiest Pet Competition. After seeing the other entrants, Ava is sure that Squishy McFluff will be crowned the prettiest pet but the judge is having trouble seeing invisible pets. That is until a thief tries to steal a prize-winning vegetable and then Squishy McFluff finds himself in the sight of everyone…
Page Count: 80
Genre: Everyday life Themes: Friendship, animals, rhyme, humour 'a word about books' says…"I love the Squishy McFluff books, they are so endearing and are the absolute perfect introduction to chapter books for emerging readers. This one has fun, excitement and just a little bit of drama. An absolute delight!"
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Stick & Fetch Investigate: Barking Up the Wrong Tree
Sally Stick is the founder and chief of the Stick & Fetch Detective Agency. She loves solving mysteries along with her her beloved pet dog, Stick, and together they make quite the detective duo. The only problem is the duo are all too often, ‘barking up the wrong tree’.…
Page Count: 144
Genre: Mystery, crime, adventure Themes: Family, humour, animals 'a word about books' says…”These three crazy crime-capers are packed with fun and humour. A read brimming with imagination and how adventure can always be found if you look hard enough.”
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