#Goldilocks: A Hashtag Cautionary Tale

by Jeanne Willis
illustrated by Tony Ross

Ref: 16187

A child happily shares a few selfies on Instagram and then moves on to funny images of others. And, when the novelty of those dies down, she moves on to more daring material...all in a quest for Likes and More Likes, leaving an ever-muckier social media footprint. 'Captures a sense of things escalating' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, LL reviewer). See also Chicken Clicking (on internet safety) and Troll Stinks (on online bullying) by the same creative team and on this website. Age 4-7, Paperback 23pp

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15 Things Not to Do With a Baby

by Margaret McAllister
illustrated by Holly Sterling

Ref: 13923

A wonderful list of wonderfully inappropriate responses to a new sibling by an award winning illustrator/author team. Comic, upbeat, offbeat and bursting with child-centred humour. (Mixed race family). Things NOT to do with a baby include pegging them on the washing line, giving them to an octopus, swapping him for the school guinea pig. 'Great illustrations; swapping him for that lovely guinea pig is tempting!!' (Maggie, Former EY Adviser, LL reviewer). 'Funny and engaging do's and don'ts for new sisters and brothers; hints at the frustration older siblings can feel!' (Carey, Childminder, LL reviewer). Age 3-5 Paperback 24pp

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15 Things Not to Do With a Granny

by Margaret McAllister
illustrated by Holly Sterling

Ref: 15753

First they told you what not to do with a baby* and now, this award-winning duo (including one of our very, most, absolute favourite illustrators) are back to tell you things to avoid doing with a granny. From not giving her squashed jelly beans on toast for breakfast to not interrupting her karate (Holly Sterling is herself something of a karate champion...) to not putting her pants on your head... some easy-to-follow rules on how to keep your granny or, indeed, both your grannies tip-top-happy! A very affectionate tribute to grandparents with not a 'granny' stereotype in sight. [Mixed race family]. Age 3-6, Paperback 26pp

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Aalfred and Aalbert

Ref: 16591

Two aardvarks, Aalfred and Aalbert, seem destined to never meet even though they would very much like to be one of a pair or one of a two. Can a broccoli floret bring them together in a life of happy-ever-after? A story of love and belonging, ever so simply (and comically) told. 'I just loved this. It made me laugh out loud. An utterly charming story about how people who are happy apart can be even happier together' (Mark, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). A story of friendship, new beginnings or perhaps-also- queer love. Age 3-7, Paperback 28pp

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A Bear Hug at Bedtime

by Jana Novotny Hunter
illustrated by Kay Widdowson

Ref: 15822

Gran plays at Tiger Gran in her stripy orange jumper; Mum is a mischief-making monkey; Dad is a hungry hairy bear. A child relishes a day of imaginative play, travelling across jungles, deserts and oceans, with all her family members joining in. A warm-as-toast celebration of extended family life starring a child who just so happens to wear a hearing aid. [Mixed race family]. 'Delightful from the first page to the last! Great concept, great range of family members, colours, ages, activities. This book made me smile from page 1 to the end' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 30pp

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Ada Twist, Scientist

by Andrea Beaty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 14326

"Why does it tick and why does it tock? Why don't we call it a granddaughter's clock?" The day she turns three, Ada begins a lifetime of asking, "WHY?" . For Ada, everything is a potential quiz, riddle and puzzle to be unravelled. Her parents are frazzled. Her teachers are frazzled. But, in the end, everyone recognises that at the core of all this chaos and testing and answering is a budding and brilliant scientist. A book guaranteed to pique children's interest in STEM subjects. Fantastic rhythms and rhymes, scrummy illustrations with fantastic detailing; this is what people mean when they talk about a perfect picture books- a flweless dialogue between text and illustration. From the creators of the much-loved Rosie Revere, Engineer and Iggy Peck, Architect. But, inspired by the stories of Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie, this is perhaps our favouritest so far... You can see 2 of our teen reviewers sharing their own views on Ada Twist here. Age 4-7, Hardback 30pp

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A Farmer's Life + QR Code

by Jan Dobbins
illustrated by Laura Huliska-Beith, sung by The Flannery Brothers

Ref: 13157

"1, 2, 3, it's a farmer's life for me!" A group of children muck out on a farm collecting eggs, counting lambs, picking cherries and raking hay. "Upbeat, jovial text" (EY Adviser, LL reviewer); "great to see girls and women farming & male farmer baking" (LL staff). Great outdoors rhyming fun, backnotes on working farms and a watch and sing along CD. Age 3-6, Paperback + QR Code for audio and video, 22pp

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A Great Big Cuddle

by Michael Rosen
illustrated by Chris Riddell

Ref: 14608

"Nippy-nappy / Nippy-nappy / Nap, nap, nap...Ippy-uppy / Ippy-uppy / Up, up, up". With such a dream team, the current and a former Children's Laureate, this was always going to be a bit of a treasure. A big bold collection of what Rosen and Riddell do best- rhymes which drum, drip and tiptoe; rhythms which lull, bounce and startle; words which rush out to tumble and play; accompanied by illustrations which fill and trip over the pages with their sweeps and strokes. A collection which deserves all those set-to-be-a-classic predictions. We could say lots about its suitability for extending vocabulary, early explorations of rhymes, patterned phrases but, for now, we just want to tell you about the lickingly lovely glorious FUN of it: "Bendy Man, Bendy Man / He's a long leggy man. / Bendy Man, Bendy Man / In a baked-bean can." "I went to Lapland / I saw a reindeer on the loose / I went to Canada / I saw a chocolate mousse." (cue Riddell's standing upright, chocolate-munching, golden, smug moose...). Joint winner (with Crossan's One) of the . Age 3-7, Paperback 73pp

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Alfie

Ref: 15477

Subtitled, "The turtle that disappeared". From Nia's point of view, her very beloved pet turtle just ups and leaves the night before her seventh birthday...which isn't Alfie's perspective on what happened at all. Hear the turtle's side of the story. 'A perfect story book. Very touching with moments of great humour. [Extra bonus points for the info. on hibernation]' (Fen, Letterbox Library staff). 'Beautifully illustrated. Thoughtful, clever attention to detail' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, American Import Hardback 37pp

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All Are Welcome

by Alexandra Penfold
illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman

Ref: 16542

Watch a group of children go about their school day all the way through to home time...and the start of the very next day! A maximum-celebratory tribute to a gloriously diverse school community made up of different family structures (incl. same-sex parents), different faiths (incl. Sikh, Jewish and Muslim) and one where girls and boys (plus a gender-ambiguous child) and disabled children (wheelchair user, a visually impaired child) all share the same, equally active play and learning. Overarching all the activities is a strong message about welcoming children from every part of the globe, so also perfect for countering anti-immigrant sentiments. Very funny illustrations with lots of detail to take in (we especially loved the sparkle of teeth braces alongside the gappy grins). 'A strong and very necessary message but delivered in a wonderfully child-friendly, vibrant, exciting way' (Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Fab book. Great diversity in children, families, activities...and headgear for bed!' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 36p.

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All Sorts to Make a World

by John Agard
illustrated by Michael Broad

Ref: 14200

Shona and her Dad have enjoyed their trip to the Natural History Museum, especially the display of Lucy, a 3.2-million-old skeleton found in Ethiopia. But things go a little awry on the way back home... Stuck a tube in a tunnel, all Shona can do is try to enjoy the company of Tattoo Fellow, Pinstripe Man, Kindle Woman and her Dad's spooky jumbie tales. A funny and super-silly celebration of our diverse capital city and its quirky residents. By an acclaimed poet and playwright (Agard received the Queen's Gold Medal for Poetry in 2012). Age 7-11 Paperback 49pp

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Amazing

Ref: 15628

Meet Zibbo, a small, yellow-spotted, pet dragon with fantastic roaring and fire-breathing skills. Ibbo is a little different to the children but he is much loved and, most importantly of all, he is one little child's best friend. Together they dance under disco balls, snack and burp, sail in pirate ships. A blast of a book which celebrates imaginative play and is narrated by a fiercely active, joyful and boisterous child who also happens to be a wheelchair user. You don't get much more upbeat and positive than this! 'Fab book. Great illustrations, great central character, great diversity in the wealth of other children too!' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp

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The Ammuchi Puchi

by Sharanya Manivannan
illustrated by Nerina Canzi

Ref: 15377

"Ammuchi's mouth was always stained with betelnut juice, so she looked like she had been drinking blood. When she laughed, her teeth looked like she had brushed them with chilli powder. Ammuchi laughed a lot". Aditya and Anjali adore their rather off-beat grandmother, Ammuchi; they especially like listening to her magical ghost stories. When grandma dies, the family is bereft. But then, in the middle of their mourning, a mysterious orange butterfly begins to make a regular appearance, fluttering on Anjali's nose, dropping gentle kisses on her face... Anjali swears the butterfly is her grandma come back with an important message for them. A magical, soothing story by an Indian author with illustrations so bright they seem to have drained the entire colour palette! 'Such a lovely story. I like the implicit acceptance of death and sadness but the richness of memory' (Eileen, Former Teacher, LL reviewer). 'Stunning and vibrant illustrations and a wonderful story' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). Age 6-9 Paperback 29pp.

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Anansi and the Sheep

by Adam Bushnell
illustrated by Nuno Alexandre Viera

Ref: 17102

Your favourite West African trickster is back. In this story, an act of kindness leads to all sorts of chaos...and trickery. Anansi comes across a lean-looking sheep surviving off dried grass. He feels sure he can get him to lusher plains and so, in one deft move, he breaks the sheep free. As they run away, they're accosted by a lion, then a cheetah, then a panther. To all of them, Anansi frightens them off with a tall, tall tale of the sky falling down. But will they ever reach pastures new? Ideal for newly independent readers and with backnotes for extra reading support. Age 6-8, Paperback 20pp

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Astro Girl

Ref: 15866

Dedicated to all the girls who "dream of exploring the stars." Astrid has such a dream. And she's getting the practise in: papa spins her around to mimic a spaceship's orbit; he tosses her up high to get her used to near-zero gravity; she chews on cereal bars in prep for a diet of tube food. And she learns from a role model who is surprisingly close to home... "An empowering message stitched in to just darn good storytelling" "What a great book! I love the warm relationship portrayed between the father and Astrid...very positive message throughout of Astrid's aspiration to be an astronaut" (Fen and Jayne, staff and Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewers). Comes with a double page spread at the back full of space facts including a roll call of women astronauts. Letterbox Library had the joy of being consulted on an early manuscript- and as long term fans of Ken Wilson-Max we felt like all our Christmases had arrived early. The illustrations chuckle with Wilson Max's trademark smudgy-warm palette. Age 4 to 7, Hardback 24pp

Read about this book in our article in Write4Children Journal (June 2013)

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Baby Goes to Market

by Atinuke
illustrated by Angela Brooksbank

Ref: 15806

Baby is very curious. So curious that they get rewarded with goods from different market sellers- oranges, chin-chin biscuits, roasted sweetcorn. Each time, Baby eats one and then puts the rest in Mama's head basket... Counts down from 6 to 1 while also demonstrating simple (minus 1) subtractions. Early mathematics skills set to the rhythms, sounds and colours of a vibrant, busy, modern West African market. Age 2-6, Paperback 29pp

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Baking With Dad

Ref: 15085

A child with wonderfully sculpted sticky-uppy red hair spends a messy but productive day baking a Super Cake with Dad. Several whisks, shakes, flour sneezes and fruit-cocktail-head-dresses later and a six-tiered mountain of baked loveliness is all ready. A grand picture book (showing Dad as primary carer) which extends to the, beautifully formatted end pages animated by all sorts of household items: loo paper, yogurt moo...spiders! Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp

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Ballerina Dreams: A True Story

by Michaela & Elaine DePrince
illustrated by Ella Okstad

Ref: 15047

The younger-reader edition of Michaela DePrince's highly moving memoir, Hope in a Ballet Shoe. DePrince is a Sierra Leonean-American professional ballet dancer. Brought up in an orphanage in Sierra Leone during the civil war and then, aged 4, adopted by an American Jewish couple, DePrince became one of America's most eminent ballerinas, winning awards and attracting media attention around the world. This early reader biography, written by DePrince and her adoptive mother, manages to convey this extraordinary story in the most child-friendly of ways while never glossing over the essential facts. Warm and bright illustrations (the ones of a young DePrince doing grand jeté leaps in a fluffy tutu are joyful!) and a straightforward text which also introduces lots of interesting dancing terms. 'This is such a lovely little book; it rings with a quiet truth' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). 'I love this book. It has everything in it- truth, purpose, pain, determination, hard work and triumph. Inspiring on every page!' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). An incredible role model, named one of The Times' 'Top 25 Under 20' and one of Elle UK's 'Top 30 Under 30' in 2014. Age 6-9, Paperback 63pp

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Barefoot Books Children of the World

by Tessa Strickland & Kate DePalma
illustrated by David Dean

Ref: 14628

"Every morning, millions of children open their eyes and start another day" ...And so begins this encyclopaedic, panoramic introduction to children from around the world: their homes, their diverse families (including same-sex parented and foster families), their different languages (including sign language), clothing and costumes, favourite games, special days, different faiths. A UNICEF-endorsed celebration of our global diversity, commonality and interconnectedness, nicely summed up in the text, "Every life is a story. It's easier to understand someone when you know their story." It is impossible here to summarise all the areas of diversity covered, so do please take our word for this being one of the most inclusive books we know! For example, simply the range of disabilities 'casually' shown (eye patches, shortened limbs, children with Down's syndrome) is unusual for picture books. Fantastic back notes extend out from each double page spread with a wealth of factual information. Younger children will be engaged by the simplicity of the core text while older children can think around each topic with the detailed extra notes. 'Barefoot books are always so amazing. Very inclusive, lots to talk about' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Officer, LL reviewer). 'Something of interest for everyone' (Maggie, EY Advisory Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 3-8, Paperback 65pp

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Bathe the Cat

by Alice B. McGinty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 16498

One of those perfectly flawless picture books which harmonises text and illustrations in a joyful, synchronised two-step. Grandma is on her way over. And so, Daddy gathers the family together and gives instructions- Bobby must rock the baby, Dad will scrub the dishes, Sarah will feed the fishes... and he will bathe the cat. And all the tasks will be spelt out clearly on the fridge magnets, with no letter-scrambling interference whatsoever from the bath-hating, nimble-pawed kitty. None at all. An absolute triumph. Robert's exquisite illustration are pared down here to a minimal fluorescent palette of oranges, pinks and yellows; bold geometric patternings settle over Daddy's shirt, Dad's cornrow styling and dashing, pineapple-retro crockery. There is so much detail to relish: lurid orange nail varnish; the wedding bands which make Dad and Daddy's relationship unambiguous; the art deco cat shampoo bottle. Above all, this beautiful piece of art celebrates family life with two fathers through tons of play, flamboyant rhythms and rhymes and merry mayhem. And, rising above all of them, is a thoroughly ingenious tabby cat. Domestic bliss in technicolour. (nb: all in this family of 5, bar one, are characters of colour). Age 4-7, Hardback 39pp

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Bea by the Sea

Ref: 16647

Bea is utterly obsessed with lions. She loves everything lion-y. She doesn't like the beach or sand or anything sand-y. But, when her Mum takes her to the seaside, a Sand Lion appears and is soon introducing her to the joys of barefoot footprints, sandcastles, sea roars and sand angels! A lovely day out at the beach with a soothing message about allaying familiar childhood fears. Full marks too on the hair styling, including Bea's multicoloured hair bobbles. The inside start and end pages are chocka with facts about lions and sand facts! 'Love the main character- fun role model. A little child with a cute hairstyle too. Promotes positive story of Black children. Bea shows fear, then bravery and courage' (Ann Marie, EY Safeguarding Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Such a sweet book and a great message about overcoming fears' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, Letterbox Library reviewer). Stars a Black family. Age 4-7, Paperback 34pp

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A Beginner's Guide to Bearspotting

by Michelle Robinson
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 14856

Balaclava. Check. Tin cup., Check. Woollen mitts. Check. Field notebook. Check. And now for your guide...An intrepid bear discoverer is guided through the behaviour and tendencies of the black bear, a.k.a Ursus Americanus, and the brown bear, a.k.a Ursus Horiblis. Includes advice on playing dead. A chatty voiceover with a text which expands and shrinks and skews and bellows with exclamations. Roberts' beautiful, trademark design-led illustrations- big grizzlies are carefully etched out on graph paper and an autumn palette of browns and oranges is suddenly splattered with the fuchsia pink of exploding bubble gum!. 'This book is so so so good. Every aspect has been well thought out. The plot is so developed and funny and simple yet complicated. Love the illustrations' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 29pp

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Best Friends, Busy Friends

by Susan Rollings
illustrated by Nichola Cowdery

Ref: 16322

From "running around the playground friends" to "skipping home from school friends", all kinds of friendships are streamed across the pages of this fun, rhyming and rhythmic picture book. 'Gentle book about friendships and all its different facets- furry friends and sometimes not so kind friends. Lots of very positive images of gender and disability with all children taking an equally active part' (Rosalind, Workforce Development Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Superbly inclusive across all identities, including the portrayal of a range of disabilities. (wheelchair user; visually impaired child who uses a cane; child with facial marker). Age 2-5, Paperback 28pp

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The Biggest Story

by Sarah Coyle
illustrated by Dan Taylor

Ref: 16363

Errol is bored. Errol wants another of mum's bestest stories. But mum is too busy fixing the pipework under the sink. So, Errol might just have to make up his own! Luckily there are plenty of ants and cats and stegosauruses and meerkats on hand, all eager to line up in the cast of characters. A tribute to children's inventive minds with a double page spread at the back to help prompt the reader's very own story creation.(Single Parent Family) Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp

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Billy and the Dragon

Ref: 15853

A fancy-dress party disturbed by a dastardly dragon's kidnap of a cat called Fatcat. A perilous rescue mission involving a plunge into the Deep Dark Forest. A journey across treacherous landscapes (gushing waterfalls etc.) encountering savage creatures (bucktoothed bunnies, skwalking baby dragons etc.) Follow Billy on her latest adventure which ends up being only a little bit terrifying and a lot of a Very Silly Mix Up. Endearing characterisations, hilarious dialogue, brilliant artwork blazoned across full double page spreads- finished off with an smattering of adorable little bunny rabbits. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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The Blue Bird's Palace

by Orianne Lallemand
illustrated by Carole Hénaff

Ref: 17099

Inspired by the Russian folk tradition. On the stillest of summer nights in Blue Forest, a dashing blue bird takes a message to Nikolai- his child has just been born. He and his partner name her Natasha. Natasha grows, wanting for nothing and desiring many things... which brings its own problems. Then one day, she encounters a mysterious older woman with blazing eyes who conjures up an exquisite blue bird. And with that, Natasha's life lesson is about to begin. A gently cautionary tale about sharing and kindness. Grand storytelling, lavish full-bleed double page illustrations, Slavic motifs. A perfect read aloud. Age 5-9, Paperback 30pp

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Bodies Are Cool

Ref: 16842

"Freckled bodies, dotted bodies, rosy-patched or speckled bodies. Bodies are cool!" A glorious anthem to our body diversity. The simplest of text and smiliest of illustrations show young children that every body is okay, whatever their size or shape, however wiggly, whatever their skin colour. All hairstyles work: poofy, springy or no hair at all. Hair, generally, is 'in', from leg hair to brows-meet-in-the-middle hair. Welcome scars, stretchmarks, innies, outies, stubby fingers, wrinkly fingers! This is a wonderful homage to our human forms which fittingly embraces a range of disabilities, ethnicities, faiths and, implicitly, gender identities (while also challenging gender stereotypes). 'Wonderful illustrations and so colourful and interesting. So much to see. Lots to discuss' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'I would love to see the representation that is displayed within these beautiful diverse illustrations on TV as children and adults can feel less alone and have someone who looks like them to look up to' (Nicole, Teen Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-7, Paperback 30pp

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The Boys

by Lauren Ace
illustrated by Jenny Løvlie

Ref: 16514

"They came to realise that no boy is an island and the bravest way to face problems is to talk and listen". The companion book to The Girls, winner of the Waterstone's Children's Book Prize 2019 and also featured on our website. Meet Rey, Nattie, Bobby and Tam and watch them grow from young children bobbing in the sea, as close as brothers, to teenagers who compete and forge impendent lives, to young men who come back together in a forever bond. Superb. A much needed and brilliantly executed challenge to toxic masculinity, promoting kindness, patience, active listening and empathy between boys/men. And we're proud to say that one of our very own reviewers, Darren Chetty (also co-author of What Is Masculinity? on this website), gave critical feedback on an early draft of this book; you may spot a (pictorial) tribute to him in the book itself! 'This is an absolute gem!! How to nurture and maintain relationships between boys/men- it's brilliant!' (Jayne, Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewers). 'Beautifully illustrated, gentle friendship story. Very inclusive. I love it. Outstanding' (June, Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). [Extra n.b. on representation: a range of ethnicities; Nattie has two mums; Tam grows up to marry a man]. Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp

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The Boy Who Lost His Bumble

Ref: 13821

A nature-loving child with a special passion for bees, logs and records each and every buzzzz. And then, suddenly one day, with the arrival of rain and frost, all of the bees disappear. Bereft and despairing, he tries all manner of things to encourage them back- from dressing up in a bee suit to creating a special beehive hotel with free wi-fi. To no avail. And then, just as suddenly, with the coming of Spring, the bees fly back! An endearing story about losing your bumble and getting it back! Follows the passing seasons and weather patterns. Excellent bumble bee back notes provide a wider context on the value of bees to our fragile eco system. Age 4-7 Paperback 28pp

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The Boy Who Loved Everyone

by Jane Porter
illustrated by Maisie Paradise Shearring

Ref: 16029

WINNER Little Rebels Award 2020 Dimitri has just started at his nursery and, as ever, he's keen to share his love. At story time, he tells Liam he loves him. At playtime, he tells Sophie, Stella and Sue he loves them. At lunchtime, he tells the dinner lady he loves her too. And so the day goes on, with Dimitri's heart bursting with each new encounter. But he can't help noticing that no one says they love him back. Can Mum help him understand the many different manifestations of an overflowing heart? Described by Catherine Barter on the Little Rebels Award website as "A moving and nuanced picture book exploring love, friendship and emotional expression". Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp

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The Bread Pet: a sourdough story

by Kate DePalma
illustrated by Nelleke Verhoeff

Ref: 16368

Uncle JB has stopped by on his way out West. He asks Cora (and her mums) to look after something for him while he's away. Is it Poquito the pet goldfish? No! It's bread...and it's alive... it's a Bread Pet! JB leaves careful sourdough-goo-care instructions (except the part about keeping it in the fridge.... Soon, the sourdough grows and grows. In just days, there are mini bread pets bubbling all over the household. Eventually Cora, Mum and Mama not only end up having to turn bread bakers, they end up needing to distribute Bread Pet's offspring at the local community centre. A soulful story of family, community and artisan bread with a dash of multiplications and a sprinkle of science! Funny and gloopy! Obligatory Bread Pet and Bread recipes included in the back pages. (Mixed race household; protagonist wears two hearing aids). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Brodie

by Joy Cowley
illustrated by Chris Mousdale

Ref: 14276

"We all knew that Brodie was sick, but we thought he'd get better". So begins this story about the loss of a classmate. Brodie was an expert ear wiggler; he knew how to make fantastic farty noises; he had dreams of being a pilot; he liked to say "awesome stupendous". He often had stays in hospital and at these times his classmates would send him cards. But one day, the children are told that Brodie has died- and this time, they're invited to make cards for his parents. An award-winning book made at the request of teachers seeking bereavement books for younger children who have lost a classmate. Expertly done. 'Really lovely book. Sensitively done and not at all preachy. Most importantly it allows for a range of feelings; all valid' (Deborah, EY Education Lecturer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'A wonderful book' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). Age 5-9, Paperback 33pp

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Calvin

by JR and Vanessa Ford
illustrated by Kayla Harren

Ref: 16901

"For as long as I could remember, I knew I was a boy". And so begins one child's journey as he stands tall in his real gender and takes on his new name, Calvin, supported by his parents, brother, grandparents and by his school. And if that all makes this book sound 'worthy', think again. It really is full of joy. The protagonist's face glows and shines more and more with each page; the gestures and facial expressions we witness amongst Calvin's family members as they embrace their son/grandson is truly life-affirming. As Calvin's Dad says, "We love you if you are a girl, boy, neither, or both". This narrative is unusually (for picture books) non-binary in its approach and is also very refreshing for not over-explaining Calvin's gender identity. Calvin isn't a boy because... Calvin just is Calvin. And his surrounding world just adjusts itself to him. The simple alterations made to the school environment alone role model good practise. The book also tells a 'real' story with plenty of lightness- there is a visit to Gigi and Papa, splashes and dives at Water World, superhero costumes to fashion for the comic convention. Some lovely little touches in the classroom scene illustrations: teacher Mr J's strikingly assembled dreadlocks; 'casual' disability images include a wheelchair user, a child who wears a hearing aid, a child with vitiligo; completely ungendered breaktime play- Calvin simply picking up his skipping games with friend, Violet, where he left off. 'A brilliant primer for adults about how to embrace a trans child's identity wrapped up in an engaging children's story. What I really love is that nobody is interested in the whys and wherefores of his identity- they just accept it' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, Letterbox Library Reviewer). 'Great book for children and adults about accepting Calvin for who he is. Really empathetic. Good to see a mixed race family central to the storyline' (Rosalind, Project Dev. Mgr., PACEY, Letterbox Library reviewer). Written by the parents of a transgender child. Age 4-7, Hardback 29pp

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Charlie and Mouse

by Laurel Snyder
illustrated by Emily Hughes

Ref: 16288

A highly (full-colour) illustrated book perfect for children bridging picture books and fiction/chapter books. Four mini stories/chapters featuring the extremely endearing brothers, Charlie and Mouse. In the first two, they task themselves with arranging a neighbourhood party in the playground- Mouse puts on his teeny boppers, pink tutu and pointy cowboy boots; Charlie dons his wizard's hat and cape and...off they set! As they make their way through the neighbourhood, they pick up a merry band of children. Wonderfully upbeat and cheerful, full of rich and comic dialogue. Effortlessly inclusive with gentle challenges to gender stereotypes and starring mixed race protagonists within a racially diverse neighbourhood (plus background secondary characters, couple Mr Erik and Mr Michael, in the story 'Rocks'). Age 5-8, Paperback 36pp

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Celebrate Chinese New Year

Ref: 16594

All your key Chinese New Year facts in the one place- from the build-up of sweeping away bad luck and decorating with Chinese character couplets, to the setting off of firecrackers to dancing with dragons! Excellent backnotes include further festival information, a Chinese Calendar, instructions on making a Chinese lantern, a fortune cookie recipe and rules on how to play the Drum & Flower Game. A National Geographic book so the photography is, of course, stunning. Age 6-10, Paperback 27pp

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Clean Up!

by Nathan Bryon
illustrated by Dapo Adeola

Ref: 16381

Rocket is back! (see Look Up!) And, she's off with brother Jamal and Mum to visit Grammy and Grampy, a tireless couple who run a whale-watching tour and animal sanctuary (when they're not surfing) in Jamaica. The beach seems full of promise until Rocket's usual glee is cut short by the sight of an itty-bitty baby turtle all tangled up in plastic. Soon it feels like she is spotting plastic everywhere. And so, she resolves on getting together a thumping clean-up crew. Can she get the crowds behind her? And, will Jamal ever look up from that phone? The details in Dapo's illustrations continue to be a master class in visual storytelling with more colour than a jar of Hundreds and Thousands cake sprinkles. Look out for the pet tortoise's food bowels, those salon high end hairstyles (Rocket's cornrow-puff balls combo; Jamal's ever-heightening flat top), Bahaman swallowtail butterflies, Rasta beachman's stretchy string vest, teeny plastic-beach-combing crabs, Gramp's grandad socks-n-sandals look, the row of giant fish recycle bins. A clear environmental message, complete with child-friendly beach-clearing tips, delivered by one of the brightest new picture book characters to come on the scene in recent years. Move over, Lola! (Single parent/mum; Black British author & illustrator). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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The Climbers

by Ali Standish
illustrated by Alette Straathof

Ref: 16181

Alma lives in a small town bordering the forest, surrounded by rumours of what lies beyond, including the most fearsome beasts. Undaunted, she ventures out, befriending a terrified bear cub and, eventually, coming together with other children and animals seeking freedom in a world of scared, prejudice-filled adults. Some wonderful material on the displacement of communities, human encroachments on rural landscapes, adult terrors of 'outsiders' and, triumphing over this, the wisdom, clear-sightedness and fairness of children. 'I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to people who like animals' (Isak, aged 8, Letterbox Library reviewer). A highly illustrated fiction book, perfect for emerging solo readers, bridging picture books and first chapter books. Age 5-8, Hardback 84pp

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Coming to England

by Floella Benjamin
illustrated by Diane Ewen

Ref: 16927

"My name is Floella. I lived on the beautiful island of Trinidad with Marmie, Dardie and my brothers and sisters . One day at breakfast, Dardie saw an advert in the newspaper. 'We have been invited to go to England!' he said." Dardie goes ahead with his saxophone and suitcase. Marmie follows a year later. And, finally, all the children make the journey, a 15 day trip by boat. But, despite the invite, London is very cold, very fast and not always very kind. As for Floella's hopes of meeting the queen? They seem impossible... A former famed BBC TV presenter, a Baroness and a Dame, Floella Benjamin now brings her story (previously only told in chapter book format) to a picture book audience. 'I loved this tale. Very similar to my own older siblings' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). ''I enjoyed reading this book...it gave a glimpse of the racism that Floella and many, many others faced. It is an amazing story for children as they can learn a lot. I would recommend this book to many' (Hannah, young Letterbox Library reviewer). p.s.: she does end up meeting the actual Queen Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp

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The Colour Thief

by Andrew Fusek Peters & Polly Peters
illustrated by Karin Littlewood

Ref: 14157

One of Letterbox Library's favourite illustrators joins forces with the very popular Peters team. "My Dad's life was full of colour. ..But one day, Dad was full up with sadness, all the way to the top. He said his sky had turned grey." A child's perspective of their parent's depression as it threatens to take over. This excellent description of mental health problems also brilliantly captures a child's anxiety, loneliness and their overwhelming guilt when faced with a parent in pain. Enhanced by evocative language ("Months were stretchy like chewing gum...") and Karin's wonderfully expressive illustrations, this is a hugely empathetic and sensitive treatment of an adult's struggle with and recovery from a period of depression- with a concerned child looking on. 'Very sensitively handled- some great figurative language' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Much needed. Positive/reassuring resolution. Great illustrations.' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Commissioning Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 6-9, Paperback 24pp Themes: Mental Health, Families

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Covered in Adventures

Ref: 16490

Dad Toby and Dad Greg have quite a challenge on their hands, persuading daughter Sasha to part with her oldest sweater. Her Dads call it "dirty"; she protests that is merely "covered in adventures". It bears all the traces and splodges of the failed volcano experiment, the go-kart building, the hungry goat encounter at the city farm and the very spill-y tomato ketchup situation. So, who will win the Battle of the Jumpers? How gorgeous. A UK-produced picture book, pitched to the very young, which centres a nurturing, loving (mixed race) family which just so happens to be headed by two Dads and which also doesn't shy away from making that relationship unambiguous- as happens in so many other narratives.... (Lovely image also of a wheelchair user from Sasha's friendship group). Age 3-6, Paperback 29pp

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Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets: A Muslim Book of Shapes

by Hena Khan
illustrated by Mehrdokht Amini

Ref: 16578

A wonderful follow up to Golden Domes (A Muslim Book of Colours- also on this site) and equally sumptuous on the eye. Inspired by the use of geometric shapes in Islamic Art and with rhyming text. Familiar and more unusual shapes -rectangles, octagons, cones, arches etc.- are introduced through Islamic art, architecture and culture with each spread revealing a different country. 'Beautiful illustrations and cultural information' (Elena, Community Librarian, Letterbox Library reviewer). Iranian-born, UK illustrator and Pakistani-Muslim N American author. Age 3-7, Paperback 30pp

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The Crow's Tale

Ref: 15343

A traditional tale about bravery and kindness, told through gently rhymes and the most exquisite artwork- lithography is fused with watercolours throwing light across the pages and drawing out each one of Crow's bold and brilliant feathers. A written version of a Pennsylvania Lenni Lenape Indian legend which has been passed down, largely orally, through generations of Lenni Lenape Indians. 'This book is fabulous! High quality text told in rhyme and lovely, lovely illustrations. What a great debut for Naomi Howarth.' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox reviewer.) Age 4-7 Paperback 26pp

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Dad's Favourite Cookie

by Gu-mi Jeong, retold by Jo Cowley
illustrated by Soon-kyo Joo

Ref: 15433

Set in Japan. Yuka's Dad works every day of the week making the tastiest of ramen. Yuka is very proud of him, but she also misses him so very much. Spend a day with Yuka as she and her mum try to distract themselves with a rice ball picnic in Cherry Tree Park, a visit to the local market, a brief stopover at a shrine and then...finally...the journey back home to a waiting Dad! Fantastic flourishes and details of Japanese life are conveyed through bold, lithograph-style artwork and little notes which pop up here and there with snippets about Shiba Inu- Japan's national dog- wagashi sweets and a dumpling called Yomogi dango! A further, packed, six pages of back notes show a map of Japan (with stats.) and give information about Japanese hot springs, shrines and beautifully decorated lunchboxes. From a publisher who specialises in editing English editions of a selection of Korea's best children's picture books. 'Love this book. I liked the detail about Japan and also the poignant underlying theme of the girl missing her dad' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'A universal, familiar story of a child missing a very busy parent' (Fen, Letterbox Library staff). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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Dare

by Lorna Gutierrez
by Polly Noakes

Ref: 16090

"Dare to see when others don't...Dare to speak when others won't". Minimal rhyming text and bright splashes of colour encourage children to dare to try new things, to take a chance- and, also, to speak out, express themselves and their identities. A wonderfully toddler-friendly and toddler-empowering text which cements the rights to have opinions and to express those freely. The double page spread of adults and children bearing placards is a delight! (Includes a child who wears a hearing aid). 'What a great title- which follows through with such positive messages and very appealing illustrations' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer ). 'Overall a very positive message that can help children to dare to do more...and know that they are allowed to speak up/voice their own opinions' (Nicole, teen Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-7, Paperback 28pp

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Dave and the Tooth Fairy

by Verna Wilkins
illustrated by Carl Pearce

Ref: 16373

The return of Verna Wilkins' and the Tamarind 1993 classic, now with illustrations from picture-illumination-genius, Carl Pearce. David Alexander Curtis has a wibbly wobbly tooth. Over breakfast, he sneezes it right out. The missing tooth is nowhere to be found. No tooth means no Tooth Fairy means no money means no new kite. These are desperate times. Will Dave find his tooth before night falls? The very welcome return of a very fine picture book- reintroduce yourselves to Afiya, the highly contemporary tech-expert Tooth Fairy, Grandad and his lively set of teeth, best friend Ziz and...David Alexander Curtis. (nb: Ziz is a wheelchair user). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo

by Jill Twiss (with Marlon Bundo)
illustrated by EG Keller

Ref: 15569

This text is a real beam of loveliness whether you read it simply as a tale about a devoted bunny or whether you read it within the context of its genesis: Vice President (VP) Pence, notorious for his anti-LGBT opinions, created a children's book with his family entitled Marlon Bundo's A Day in the Life of the Vice President detailing a fictional day in the life of the Vice President's pet rabbit. Twiss' parody-released one day earlier than Pence's book- is delicious. Here, Bundo the bunny is hopping about in the VP's home grounds when he spies a bunny called Wesley. They fall instantly in love and take to hopping through the garden, inside the stuffy old VP's house and down the stuffy house's stairs making "beautiful creaky stair-music together". Such is the happiness of their hopping marathon that they decide to get married and announce this to their friends, Phil and Dennis the bugs, Pumpernickel the badger, Dill Prickle the hedgehog. But The Stink Bug, who is in charge of life in the gardens does an absolute refusal insisting that Boy Bunnies can only marry Girl Bunnies. Will Bundo and Wesley get to tie the bunny knot? An adult parody works flawlessly as an upbeat, thoroughly hoppity hop, almost painfully endearing (yet not saccharine) story about a same sex couple who want to make their vows. There are some excellent, child-friendly, points made about democracy and authority along the way too. An expert picture book. And, we haven't even had time to mention the wonderful, glowing, warm, illustrations which feel like a hug of soft fur. Age 4-7, American Import, Hardback 31pp

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The Day War Came

by Nicola Davies
illustrated by Rebecca Cobb

Ref: 16307

"War took everything, war took everyone". A child's perspective on war: its sudden devastation; the loss of all she knows; the way it stalks her in her new 'home' as adults shut their doors on her and turn away...until, finally, a small child brings her a chair and a place. A devastating and brilliant picture book provoked by the UK government's refusal in 2016 to give sanctuary to 3,000 unaccompanied child refugees, inspiring a wave of quiet, powerful activism by some of our most loved children's authors and illustrators. 'Very moving in both text and images. Very necessary' (June, Parent, LL reviewer). Endorsed by Amnesty International. For more on the #3000chairs movement, visit here: https://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/gallery/2016/may/03/3000chairs-empty-chairs-of-syrian-refugees Together, this article, this movement and this book provide very rich materials for schools to explore. Age 4-10, Paperback 27pp

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Dealing with Feeling...Sad

by Isabel Thomas
illustrated by Clare Elsom

Ref: 17147

Books in the Dealing with Feeling... series help readers to identify their emotions, and provide tips and advice on how best to express and deal with them. This book looks at sadness: how you can spot if someone is feeling sad, ways to articulate your sadness and how to reach out to others brought down by sadness. Age 4-7, Paperback 20pp

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Dealing with Feeling...Shy

by Isabel Thomas
illustrated by Clare Elsom

Ref: 17148

Books in the Dealing with Feeling... series help readers to identify their emotions, and provide tips and advice on how best to express and deal with them. This book examines what shyness feels like (a bit scary!), how to manage it (try to smile!), how to talk to new people (ask them questions!) and how to help someone else who is shy (be extra friendly!) 'Useful for giving confidence to shy individuals in groups and also 1 to 1, with good references for extending' (Maggie, EY Advisory Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 20pp

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Dealing with Feeling...Worried

by Isabel Thomas
illustrated by Clare Elsom

Ref: 14094

Books in the Dealing with Feeling... series help readers to indentify their emotions, and provide tips and advice on how best to express and deal with them. This book looks at being worried, including what it feels like to be worried, how to stop feeling worried, and how to help other people who might be feeling worried. Age 4-7, Paperback 20pp

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Dinosaur Rap

by John Foster, sung by Mikey Henry Jr.
illustrated by Debbie Harter

Ref: 14816

"There's a Saltopus strutting, swaying to the beat / Hoping and bopping and taping his feet". With a repeated chorus to join in with- "Come on everybody, shake a claw!"- this will be a real pleasure for dinosaur fans. Strong rhythms and rhymes, bright and swishy illustrations, a CD with animations and dino sing-alongs, a brilliant 'Who's Who' of dinosaurs on the backpages and a detailed, illustrated guide to the ages of the dinosaurs, from the Triassic era right up until the current, Quarternary era. Add to this a representative group of children- including a child with a hearing aid and one with a walking (or should that be boogie?!) frame- who step up to the beat in dino-matching costumes and you have Dino Love as a complete, child-friendly, package. 'Lovely, bright illustrations, lots of movements, CD with roars to dance to, inclusive disability images. Yes!' (Maggie, Former Early Years Adviser, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Dogs Don't Do Ballet

by Anna Kemp
illustrated by Sara Ogilvie

Ref: 14410

This dog doesn't do proper dog stuff, like flea scratching or stick-chasing. This dog thinks he's a ballerina. So, when all those around him insist that doing ballet isn't a very doggy-like thing to do, he sinks into a howling depression. But with a little stealth, a comfy tutu and a quite astounding Arabesque, this dog may be about to prove everyone wrong. A fun and gentle take on smashing gendered expectations. Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp

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Do Not Bring Your Dragon to the Library

by Julie Gassman
illustrated by Andy Elkerton

Ref: 14797

A librarian explains to a small child why dragons don't do well in libraries: their large bottoms take up too much floor space at story time; they risk self-igniting as they get over excited by a good story; they tend to take over the aisles. A rhyming, dragon-filled tribute to libraries. (Multicultural; includes a book-hungry wheelchair user; nice to have-for a change- both female and male dragons!) 'Strong illustration style. Diverse characters and rhyming text add to the appeal' (Darren, Teacher & Higher Ed. Tutor, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Do Not Take Your Dragon to the Last Day of School

by Julie Gassman
illustrated by Andy Elkerton

Ref: 16636

It's the very last day of school. There are bright leggings to be found and hair puffs to comb-tweak. Then, there are awards to be given out, class picnics to plan and a sports day to warm up for. So, whatever you do... do not bring your dragon! Riotous and funny. (Stars a Black girl protagonist who wears leg splints; she also rocks a pretty fabulous wardrobe). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Equal To Everything: Judge Brenda and the Supreme Court

by Afua Hirsch
illustrated by Henny Beaumont

Ref: 15929

You may well have heard of Judge Brenda in the context of the Supreme Court's ruling back in September 2019 in which Boris Johnson's proroguing of parliament was found to be unlawful. You may also have seen the extensive media coverage of Judge Brenda's... brooches! (most notoriously an exceptionally large arachnid as she read out said ruling). But did you know that Judge Brenda was the first woman to become a Law Commissioner? And the first ever woman to be a judge in the UK's Supreme Court (remaining so until 2017- there are now 3)? And the first woman to be made President of the Supreme Court? If that record isn't grand and inspiring enough for the children in your life, then they might well enjoy hearing about her legislative roles in the fight for equal pay and the pivotal part she played in writing the Children Act 1989 which placed children's safety and happiness at the centre of child welfare decisions. (N.B.: she was also a celebrity judge on MasterChef 2018!) A truly rousing narrative and with a fabulous narrative perspective- the Supreme Court and Judge Hale are introduced through the keen voice of Ama on her trip with Class 3 from Richmond, Yorkshire to London's centre. Perhaps where this book triumphs most is in getting children to imagine themselves as the judges of the future- the final image of 12 members of Class 3 (including children from a range of faiths, ethnicities and a wheelchair user), now all grown up, poised in their judges' regalia, contrasts exquisitely with the earlier portrait of the current Supreme Court: all white; mostly male. As the book's publicity material says: "depicts a positive and aspirational vision of the Supreme Court for the future". There is so much for a classroom to exploit in this book; includes extension notes and archive pics at the back. Rhyming couplets and Beaumont's vibrant splashes of watercolour keep the text super-animated and engaging. Published by the Legal Action Group and written by a former barrister. Favourite illustrations: Judge Brenda in full gown and wig, gloved up in a boxing ring; a Black Rosie Riveter placard blazing out from a sea of women protestors. ['Casual' inclusion of a Black protagonist, multicultural characters and a child who is a wheelchair user]. Age 6-9, Hardback 34pp

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Errol's Garden

Ref: 15492

Errol has plenty of green fingers. But his flat doesn't have nearly enough space for all of his seedlings and pottings. But then, he discovers the roof at the top of his tower block and an idea begins to germinate, in every sense of the word. He just needs a little bit of help from his friends. A great, positive boost of a story as a hugely diverse community come together to create something very beautiful which then spreads across the skyline... The strawberries look delish! 'Lovely to see a creative approach to gardening in the city and the power of working together' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Officer, LL reviewer). 'This book's illustrations and story made my smile' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paper27pp

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Everybody Feels Happy!

by Moira Butterfield
illustrated by Holly Sterling

Ref: 14074

Ethan has a bubbly fizzy feeling inside- he's off on holiday! Sophie loves her friends very much and wants to pass on her happiness to them...which makes them want to then pass on some of their happiness to her! Part of a lovely new series with fresh and colourful artwork which shows two children's separate stories, describes their emotions and has the two come together to interact over their feelings. Empowering and constructive feelings books with story words/glossary and suggested extension exercises for teachers/carers. Age 4-7, Hardback 21pp

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Everybody Has a Body

Ref: 16908

"...some are hairy, some are smooth; some are clumsy, while others groove; some are old, some are new; bodies come in every hue; it makes us different and makes you YOU". A simple, but very effective celebration of everyone's physical uniqueness, as demonstrated by all kinds of wibbly, wobbly and blobby characters. Our favourite characters are an elephant-lifting wheelchair user with retro 1980's aerobic accessories, a cheekily grinning eye patch wearer and a weightlifter sporting a heart-themed singlet. 'Bright pictures, simple rhyming couplets, diversity of blobs, simple, sweet message' (Patrice, children's/YA author, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Great to read aloud...I especially liked the casual wheelchair images' (June, Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 26pp

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Families & their Faiths: Buddhism in Thailand

by F. Hawker & S. Phusomsai
photos by Bruce Campbell

Ref: 14760

A Thai man talks proudly about his 8-year-old grandson, Baan, as he learns about the local Buddhist monks and then decides to become a monk himself. Fantastic photos follow Baan as he searches out a lotus leaf, gets his head shaved, dresses in white, attends his initiation ceremony and then spends time learning at the monastery. A chatty, informal text tells Baan's story while extensive back notes on each page fill out the details of this faith's customs and practises so that practitioners can elaborate confidently. Age 5-8, Paperback 28pp

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Families & Their Faiths: Hinduism in Bali

by Frances Hawker & Putu Resi
photos by Bruce Campbell

Ref: 16597

A grandmother tells the story of her 7-year-old granddaughter, Yoni and, through her, introduces us to the island of Bali, their everyday life and how this is informed by their faith's rituals and practises. With a focus on special offerings to the Hindu gods and the retelling of Hindu stories through dance, a bright photographic account, full of red and gold hues. Glossary and teacher notes included at the back. Age 4-8, Paperback 29pp

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Families & Their Faiths: Islam in Turkey

by Frances Hawker & Leyla Aliçavusoglu
photos by Bruce Campbell

Ref: 16600

Fatma introduces the lives of her grandson and granddaughter and, through them, introduces us in turn to their small Turkish village and how they practise Islam with a focus on learning the Qur'an, prayer and the meaning of Ramadan. Glossary and teacher notes included at the back. Age 4-8, Paperback 29pp

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Families & their Faiths: Sikhism in India

by F. Hawker & M. Kaur Bhatia
photos by Bruce Campbell

Ref: 14763

A Punjabi woman introduces us to her 10-year-old granddaughter, Pulkit, and in doing so, introduces the reader to some of the main tenets and practises of Sikhism- from prayers to singing kirtan hymns to making marigold garlands to the celebration of Guru Nanak's birthday in the local Gudwara. A chatty, informal text and brilliant photographs capture Pulkit's family and religious life while extensive back notes on each page fill out the details of this faith's customs and practises so as practitioners can elaborate confidently. Age 5-8, Paperback 28pp

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The Family Book

Ref: 14688

From the New York Times bestselling author and illustrator. A brilliantly simple take on diverse families: some families have step mums, some adopt children, some have one parent, some have two dads, some look like their pets, some like to be noisy, some like to be messy- but they ALL like to hug each other, they ALL like to celebrate special days and they are ALL special. Clear, happy, triumphant and loud in its message- with Parr's trademark thick felt pen, primary colour, illustrations. Age 2-5, Paperback 29pp

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Farmer Falgu Goes to the Kumbh Mela

by Chitra Soundar
illustrated by Kanika Nair

Ref: 14755

The much-loved Farmer Falgu, is seen here making his way to the Kumbh Mela. A lovely little introduction to the Hindu 'Festival of the Pot', held once every 12 years at four sacred riverside places, drawing pilgrims from across India and the world. The upbeat, simple text is enhanced by highlighted, coloured words introducing festival essentials such as jalebis and sweet lassi and the procession of sadhus (holy men). Vibrant illustrations- the men draped in wreaths of orange blossom is especially fine. Nice backnote on the festival. 'Lovely to see such a rich culture being brought to life so vividly. Lots of info. for practitioners and parents to convey its meaning' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp

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Fearless: The Story of Daphne Caruana Galizia

Ref: 16075

The true story of Daphne Caruana Galizia. From a very young age, Daphne led a life of passionate resistance and truth-telling. As a journalist, blogger and activist, she uncovered corruption at the highest level in Maltese politics. In 2017 she was assassinated. Award winning illustrator (Maltese but lives in London) Gattaldo has achieved that rare feat in children's literature: turning hard-hitting and complex material- freedom of speech, protest, justice, fake news- into a wholly age-appropriate and child-friendly narrative. The text is sparse and accessible; the minimal palette illustrations, which bleed and sweep autumnal colours across the pages , are satisfyingly heavy with symbolism and storytelling in their own right. It feels like a real gift to have this extraordinary activist's life translated for our youngest minds. Thank you, Gattaldo, and thank you publishers Otter-Barry Books. Endorsed by Amnesty International. Age 6-10, Hardback 26pp

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The 5 Misfits

Ref: 15771

Meet The 5 Misfits, a happy band of creatures who live happily together in their snug little home. One of them is punctured, one is folded, one is feeble, one is upside down and one is simply "a bundle of oddities". They are a happy band of creatures, living snugly together in a lopsided house...until they are visited by a stranger, the Perfect One, who is appalled by their good-for-nothingness. Will he mend their ways or will they mend his? ... An incredibly beautiful book in its art work and a extraordinarily wise book in its messages about uniqueness and individuality. 'A quirky take on difference; lots of subliminal messages- positive ones' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). 'Themes of social acceptability, friendship, contentment and joy which can open up conversations about "misfits" without perpetuating stereotypes of them' (Darren, Teacher & Higher Ed. Tutor, LL reviewer). Age 4-9, Paperback 34pp

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Football Star

by Mina Javaherbin
illustrated by Renato Alarcão

Ref: 13266

"My story is a homage to all football stars who have risen and continue to rise up from poverty" (M. Javaherbin). Set in Brazil, this stunningly illustrated story about a child's ambition to be a great footballer is also a beautifully non-didactic and thoughtful story about poverty, child labour and a challenge to gender stereotypes. We adored it. Age 4-7, Paperback 31pp

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The Girls

by Lauren Ace
illustrated by Jenny Løvlie

Ref: 15574

"This is the story of four girls, but it is also the story of womankind. Together #WeAreTheGirls". Meet Sasha, Lottie, Alice and Leela- held together through a friendship so unbreakable it frees them to explore their separate lives. A unique picture book which shows the close friendship between four children and then the maturing of this relationship into adulthood. As the four stride out into new experiences, work, adventures, loves and independent lives, they remain held together through unassailable roots of support and kindness. A tribute to the transformative healing powers of friendship and how true intimacy between friends can be a balm for life. With words and illustrations full of heart and teaming with affirmation, children will love joining the characters on their journey and will feel buoyed by the subtle, but ever-present, message to be who they want to be. (This title also performs 'casual inclusion' at it best- a multicultural group of friends, the illustrations also show Sasha, a young black woman, setting up home with a female partner and mid-way, there is a gorgeous image of the girls leading a Pride parade which bursts with rainbow flags and multicoloured heart balloons). 'Finally, an authentic representation of female friendship which isn't all saccharine and glitter' (Fen, LL staff and reviewer). 'I liked this very much! It's beautifully told-friendships endures through a lifetime.. the gentle respect they have for one another and their allowance of difference shines through the book' (Eileen, Former Primary teacher, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors

by Hena Khan
illustrated by Mehrdokht Amini

Ref: 14752

"Yellow is the box we fill on Eid with gifts of zakat for those in need. Green is the Quran I read with pride. Grandma explains the lessons inside". From silver fanoos to golden domes, a young Muslim girl introduces readers to her faith, including Ramadan and Eid, through the medium of rhyme and colours. An original approach, very beautifully illustrated with a useful glossary. By a Muslim author and an illustrator inspired by elements of Islamic art. 'A beautifully produced book that will undoubtedly be of use both in the home and school setting. Informative and engaging with attractive illustrations. Positive, family-orientated portrayal of Islamic faith' (Kate, Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp

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Grandad's Camper

Ref: 16523

Every summer, a child visits her seaside Grandad. Holidays with Grandad are always bursting with things to do and witness- but the best thing of all is hearing all about the adventures Grandad shared with Gramps, his partner. Grandad reminisces about Gramp's messiness, clumsiness and also his excellence at so many things. Most of all, he shares stories of their around-the-world adventures in their striped, pink camper van...a van which still lurks in the garage, now looking a little sorry for itself. Can a fix-it granddaughter bring the van and its magic adventures back to life...? A gentle story about loss, a celebration of intergenerational love and in praise of all good road trips. Age 4-7, Hardback 24pp

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Granny Came Here on the Empire Windrush

by Patrice Lawrence
illustrated by Camilla Sucre

Ref: 16933

Ava is struggling to think of what to wear to her school costume day. But a visit to Granny means a dive into Granny's special dress up trunk which is brimming with inspiration! Sparkling beads conjure up musician Winifred Atwell; a red scarf suggests Mary Seacole; a wrinkly jacket would work for Rosa Parks. But Ava is much more mesmerised by Granny's cardboard grip case, something she held close to her on her journey over from Trinidad on the Empire Windrush... Indie Book Awards 2022 Shortlist. In many ways, our favourite kind of picture books, where the brevity of the format is nonetheless worked up to communicate large ideas, making them very immediate. In doing so, the creators set store by and make possible young children's skills at processing and pondering those weighty ideas. Gorgeous illustrations; watch out for the beautiful but stark double spread of Granny as a young woman, sat down alone at Piccadilly Circus; overhead hovers the simple caption: "I just wanted to go home". A lightning bolt of legacy and pride. Age 4-8, Paperback 35pp

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The Great Big Book of Families

by Mary Hoffman
illustrated by Ros Asquith

Ref: 10605

SLA Information Book Award Under 7s 2011 Winner The most joyful and inclusive book of the year! A glorious, multicultural celebration of contemporary family life. Includes lesbian/gay parents, single parents, adopted/fostered children and people from different economic backgrounds. All wrapped up in delightful illustrations and great dollops of humour! Age 4-8, Paperback 32pp

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The Great Big Book of Feelings

by Mary Hoffman
illustrated by Ros Asquith

Ref: 12912

Selected by Booktrust as a Best Book of 2013 The second in the series of these most joyful and inclusive books! Explore lots of different feelings with the children in this book, see if you can find feelings that match your own, or that help you understand how other people are feeling. Feelings explored with the same warmth, wit and sensitivity as in the award-winning 'The Great Big Book of Families'. Age 4-8, Paperback 32pp

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The Great Googly Moogly

Ref: 13122

Nobody has ever been able to catch The Great Googly Moogly - a giant and terrifying fish of legend. But Stella aims to do just that. Armed with fishing gear and differing baits, she sets out every day to realize her dream, whatever the weather. But what will she do if she succeeds? Courtney Dicmas's latest book features a spirited character determined to achieve her goal, but it also reflects our responsibilities to other creatures, and our place in the natural world. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp

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Hands Up!

by Breanna J. McDaniel
illustrated by Shane W. Evans

Ref: 16154

A toddler stretches up high, reaches far; she gets involved, speaks up, strikes a pose, flies ahead, wins...all with her hands up! This picture book re-spells affirmation with a capital 'A'. Pulses with self-determination and self-belief. Protest, praise and... basketball are all acts of strong positivity. Purposefully reclaims a charged phrase and implicitly inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement. "A warm and necessary message of empowerment for black children, helping them see that raising their hands is a celebration of their humanity" (Kirkus Review Jan 2019). Age 4-8, Hardback 31pp

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Heather Has Two Mummies

by Lesléa Newman
illustrated by Laura Cornell

Ref: 13451

A new edition of a classic. Brought bang up to date by Walker Books through a new illustrator, the publisher has also created an Anglicised edition (no more 'mommies'!) This new edition has beautifully vibrant, yet softly fuzzy illustrations which make each spread somehow...huggable! So, time to meet Heather again and her two special mummies, Mama Jane and Mama Kate and Gingernut the cat and Midnight the dog. Follow Heather as she goes about the tricky business of starting school and the less tricky business of nap time, circle time and everyone-draw-a-picture-of-their-family time. Everything about this book is simply delightful. Includes a 'secondary' representation of gay dads and there are also some subtle, lovely little gender touches along the way too (Heather's firefighter costume, Mama Jane's carpentry, the gender-neutral play at school etc.) 'Fantastic! Definite must-have! Positive portrayal, inclusive, bright and affirming' (Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp

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Happy Birthday Madame Chapeau

by Andrea Beaty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 13800

A quirky treat. Every one of Madame Chapeau's customers is different, so each receives a unique, bespoke hat. But while she gives so much of herself, Madame has a lonely life. And then, one night, she loses her precious birthday bonnet. A line of men queue up to offer her their hats but none will do...until a child brings her a special headpiece, knitted by her own small hands and brightly coloured with love. Like every great story book, this one lends itself to multiple interpretations. It's a story about loss and (self-) isolation, but it also ends up as a story about friendship, belonging and finding your own uniqueness. The illustrations are wonderful- a particular delight is that each hat mirrors and reveals the personality of its owner. The text lilts along with bouncing rhymes and it savours funny nonsense words- "Chez Snooty-Patoot" "Rue Tippytap". This illustrator excels in effortless inclusion- the characters are multicultural; the real star is a small, Black child (with natural hair); some of the couple scenes suggest same-sex partners in amongst the mix and indeed one of the story's joyful messages is that love and companionship takes many forms. 'I LOVE this book...a lovely story about finding what is right for you' (Ruth, Events Programmer, Discover Story Centre, LL reviewer). 'How many ways do I love this? I would have bought this for my child- I had to read it to my (nearly 15-year-old) daughter anyway. Wonderful inclusion!' (Patrice, children's author, LL reviewer) Age 4-7, Hardback 29pp

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Happy in our Skin

by Fran Manushkin
illustrated by Lauren Tobia

Ref: 14182

"This is how we all begin: small and happy in our skin". A gorgeously inclusive book which gets giddy about skin! A rich text marvels at how skin keeps "your insides in", at how clever it is at growing, at healing and how it responds to the outside environment. Most of all, it celebrates the diversity of our skin and the importance of feeling happy in your skin. This joyful book has so many purposes: it can function very simply as an early science/biology book for the very young or it can be used as a subtle yet brilliant tool in challenging prejudice and in empowering children to feel confident in their skin and in their body. 'Lovely, evocative descriptions of colours- peaches & cream, honey/gold...What's not to like?' (Maggie, former EY Adviser, LL reviewer). 'Very positive about skin colours/purpose of skin. Joyful illustrations' (Rosalind, EY Consultant, LL reviewer). (Portrayals of different ethnicities, faiths and disabilities as well as diverse family structures). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp

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Happy to be Me

Ref: 15624

"Thank you mouth, you smile and giggle. Thank you toes, you're great to wiggle". Follow a small (and ethnically diverse) group of children joyfully exploring their senses as they take part in a host of activities including playing dress up, cuddling lambs on a farm visit building a robot, toasting marshmallows over a camp fire. The merry band includes a wheelchair user, a child with a hearing aid and a child wearing thick-lensed glasses. Much as this is, quite simply, a very cheerful book about celebrating the senses, the disability depictions seem especially thoughtful and empowering. For e.g.: the child who uses a wheelchair folds his legs into a perfect puppy-needs-a-nap lap; the child with the hearing aid is shown in the line-up of children whispering in to each other's ears. 'Nice rhyming text about senses and body parts. Simple, bold and colourful illustrations. Lovely early years book' (June, Parent, LL reviewer). Age 2-5, Paperback 29pp

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A Hat for Mr Mountain

Ref: 17094

Meet Nara, hat maker extraordinaire with flair. Everybody- from dogs to giraffes- is treated to a bespoke design until, that is, Mr Mountain requests his own hat ahead of the winter snowfalls. The challenge is enormous. The giant woolly hat shrinks, the giant leafy hat gets..eaten. Will Mr Mountain ever get his special cap? By a South Korean creator, in the style of a traditional tale, starring an East Asian protagonist. Age 4-7, Paperback 32pp

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Have You Seen Elephant?

Ref: 14852

A very large, very fun-spirited elephant challenges a small child to a game of hide and seek. And, despite the elephant's quite terrible disguises- on full show with just its head in a lampshade, delicately clutching a skinny tree trunk in front of it- the child simply fails to spot it. Which leads, inevitably, to a tortoise challenging the same child to a game of Tag...A book which really understands the art of being a picture book with the barest of texts, decorative gatefolds and warm, smudgy illustrations in a gorgeous fuzzy summer palette, stuffed with character and great humour. A picture book lover's dream. 'Ahhh, how funny is this?! Children will love it. Made me smile all the way through' (Meryl, Early Years Consultant, LL reviewer). 'So funny- laughed out loud!' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Commissioning Officer, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 30pp

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Hello Hello

Ref: 15675

A striking environmental tale which is also a jubilant celebration of difference. A range of black and white and then gorgeously garishly-coloured and then stripy and then spotted creatures make their way across glossy double page spreads, mirroring and taking on each other's characteristics and, always, greeting each other with a friendly "hello!" Culminates in the celebratory refrain, "A world to see / A world to know / Where to begin? / Hello Hello". A beautifully executed picture book with rhyming text and ninety-two (yes, 92!) smiling, beaming creatures who, we find out right at the very end, are all endangered: Brazilian porcupines, elephant seals, veiled chameleons, squat lobsters... Semi-cartoon-like, collage illustrations. Take the time to compare the silhouetted front end with the coloured-in back end pages. 'Really interesting. Really different. Really thought provoking. Really good! A sensitive way to discuss our similarities and our differences with children' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). 'It has an environmental message but it also has a more encompassing theme of joy in difference' (Kerry, LL staff and reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 38pp

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Here I Am

by Patti Kim
illustrated by Sonia Sánchez

Ref: 13531

We first glimpsed this as a U.S. edition and hoped and hoped for a U.K. one. We didn't have to wait too long. A wordless picture book shows a child and his family migrating to a new, unspecified country. Stunning artwork takes us all on a journey from a confusing unfamiliar landscape to somewhere which is starting to feel a lot like home. Perfect visual literacy for children' whose first language isn't English- and for reluctant readers. 'A clever idea to tell the story in pictures, thus embracing all languages or those not yet learnt!' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Written by a Korean immigrant to the USA. Age 6-9, Paperback 39pp

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Here is the World: A Book of Jewish Holidays

by Lesléa Newman
illustrated by Susan Gal

Ref: 17024

Absolutely spilling over with Jewish festivals and ceremonies (eleven in total!), from a Naming Ceremony to Shavuot. Follow a family (and the seasons) as they feast on Rosh Hashanah apples and honey, build a sukkah of figs and twigs for Sukkot, shake goggers for Purim, hand out Haggadahs for Passover. Strong rhymes and soft illustrations full of pumpkin and burnt orange colours. Comes with a thorough description of Jewish customs and holidays at the back as well as related crafts and recipes: make a challah cover! And noodle kugel! Both author and illustrator are past recipients of National Jewish Book Awards. Age 3-6, Paperback 44pp

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Hey You!

Ref: 16455

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2022 "Hey you. Welcome to the world". Feel affirmed, feel bold, feel wonderful as this author and multiple illustrators accompany you on your journey through the world...from babe in arms to questioning teenager to empowered grownup. Feel yourself held and gently guided as you navigate choices, resist, persist and thrive. A tribute to growing up Black. Age 4-8, Paperback 42pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

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Hide and Seek

Ref: 17045

Warm fuzzy pictures imagine a bright, spring pastoral setting. The stage is set for ... a fearless game of hide-and-seek! Told through the voice of an adventurous girl, dressed up in orange wellies and tiger striped sweater, as she seeks out a grizzly brown bear, a hare, a racoon, while all the time being stalked by a silvery wolf. Impossible for any reader/listener to resist crying out, "It's behind you!" 'Who's hiding from who? So much going on in the illustrations. Great to see a fearless girl having fun outside' (Rosalind, Project Dev. Mgr., PACEY, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Fabulous illustrations, lots of movement. Good friendships and fun!' (Maggie, EY Adviser, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 30pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

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History VIP: Mary Anning

Ref: 16704

One of our most renowned fossil hunters and dinosaur experts and the source material for the tongue twister, 'She sells seashells on the seashore'! Born into poverty in Lyme Regis, Mary Anning developed a knowledge of fossils which soon exceeded that of many of the (male) palaeontologists around her. Her contribution is finally, finally, being recognised in literature and film. In 2010, the Royal Society of London included her in their list of the 10 most important UK women in the history of science. A skilfully told biography which is ideal for lovers of non-fiction with its archive pictures, quote boxes, timeline, glossary, newspaper cuttings etc. Clearly sets out Anning's achievements and legacy within a wider context of gender and class. Enjoyed by our 8-year-old reviewer, Vuso: 'I liked this book. It's interesting and I liked the pictures. Yeh'...As well as our retired primary teacher reviewer, Eileen: 'Great to see a book about the wonderful work of Mary Anning. It's sad that she wasn't able to achieve the recognition she deserved in her lifetime. This book addresses the balance a little'. Age 7-10, Paperback 27pp

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Honey for You Honey for Me: A First Book of Nursery Rhymes

collected by Michael Rosen
illustrated by Chris Riddell

Ref: 16105

"Honey for breakfast, Honey for tea, Honey for YOU, Honey for ME". Bears who dine on three honey meals a day; toads who dine "nicely" on slugs and snails; a boy who whistles up sausages ...in to a dance! A bright new anthology of nursery rhymes where traditional ditties snuggle up comfortably to resurrected gems. Multi-award-winning Rosen joins multi-award-winning Riddell (again) to bring you a right bobby-dazzler of a collection. Positively pulses with rhythms. (nb: See also A Great Big Cuddle). Age 3-7, Hardback 75pp

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How Are You Feeling Today?

by Molly Potter
illustrated by Sarah Jennings

Ref: 14265

A great resource. The contents page immediately gets you to identity how you are feeling -worried, grumpy, bored, quiet?- so you can then turn to the appropriate page! From here, readers will find a mini-description of the emotion concerned and child-friendly strategies for coping such as curling up into a ball, having a tickle fight, huffing and puffing and rolling your eyes till you laugh! Comes with an emotional literacy guide for carers and a 'Feelings Tracker'. 'Lots of valuable opportunities for children to discuss their feelings- how to recognise them, put them into words and strategies for dealing with them' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Ideal for developing emotional literacy, giving permission to feelings' (Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 29pp

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How to Find Gold

Ref: 14698

A small child and her crocodile friend think up gold-finding strategies, draw a map, elaborate with complicated sketches encompassing ship-sinking and underwater monsters- and then...finally...set out on an adventure to find gold. A few page spreads of wordless underwater magic later, a great, tumbling, treasure trove of gold is discovered. The adventurers carefully mark the spot on a new, very good, map and then leave the gold well alone. The end. Zany, fantastically strange and with a fresh, direct, dialogue which perfectly captures exactly how children would speak to their imaginary crocodiles. 'Positive portrayal of a gutsy, empowered, wee girl' (Kate, Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer). 'I liked this! A black girl doing something difficult and dangerous is too rare in children's literature…the dialogue is unusual with echoes of The Little Prince' (Darren, Teacher & Higher Ed. Tutor, LL reviewer). But a word of caution from our youngest, 8-year-old reviewer, Vuso, who complained: 'I did not like the book because it doesn't teach you to find gold.' Maybe he was just looking in all of the wrong places... Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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If All the World Were...

by Joseph Coelho
illustrated by Allison Colpoys

Ref: 15382

A gentle exploration of bereavement through lilting, poetic text and joyful, sweeping brushstrokes of oranges, pinks, reds and yellows. A child takes her granddad's giant hand and journeys through the seasons with him exploring the first signs of spring, discovering the astrological properties of a racing track (!), capturing dreams with a rainbow pencil in a book of crinkly leaves, storytelling with snake puppet socks. When her beloved grandpa dies, she collects scattered memories from his room and then starts to write them down in the notebook he left for her, made of spring-petal paper and Indian string. A very moving story- the sadness made somehow bearable by the exquisite relationship between child and grandparents and the narrative faith in memories which gradually heal like balm. (Mixed- Asian/Black- Race Family.) Age 4-8 Paperback 28pp

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I Am Billie Jean King

by Brad Meltzer
illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos

Ref: 15550

From ranking number one in women's tennis to winning three Gland Slams in the same year to winning the infamous Battle of the Sexes match (1973 against Bobby Riggs) to receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom (for being one of the first openly lesbian sports figures), BJK has been an inspiration at every turn in her life. A thoroughly principled advocate for justice and equality, BJK decided from a young age that the easiest way for her to lobby for fairness would be to first become the best in her game of tennis. This brilliantly accessible and fun biography speeds through her life from a little girl playing basket ball to the present day. Part of a bestselling well-researched New York Times biography series- and, finally, biographies of famous LGBT role models are honest about their subjects' sexuality. 'This book strikes just the right note. It gives a clear, measured account of a remarkable woman who was not only at the top of her profession as a tennis player but who also took the time and energy to change the status quo- and make men and women athletes be treated equally' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 6-9 American Import Hardback 38pp

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Ice in the Jungle

Ref: 13836

When Ice's mum tells her they will have to move because she has an exciting new job in an exciting new country, Ice isn't so sure.... The journey is long, the new country is far too hot, the new school is full of creatures who don't look like her and don't understand her- and they prefer bananas to fish! Too weird! Could a 'North Pole Party' be just the welcome that Ice needs? A very clever, deceptively simple, picture book which introduces themes of transition and migration while ever so gently subverting a few assumptions about new arrivals! 'Really nice way to explore how we feel in different/new situations for children' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). 'Can use this book to explore lots of different situations for children, including migration and refugees' (Kerry, LL staff). Age 3-6 Paperback 27pp

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I Like Bees, I Don't Like Honey!

by Sam Bishop
illustrated by Fiona Lumbers

Ref: 16296

"Everyone is different! This much is true. What you like, and what you don't, it's really up to you!" A bouncy, interactive, rhyming picture book shows child after child expressing their likes and dislikes- one likes friends but not being tickled; one likes chasing balloons and doesn't like people going away; another likes scooters but not spitting llamas. In amongst some comic and light likes/dislikes are some more serious ones which, together, combine in a truly empowering book through which children are encouraged to express their wants, their needs- and to stay safe. 'Love this. A lovely way for young children to learn about respecting each other's differences' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). 'Every child can relate to one of the bubble comments' (Nicole, young LL reviewer). (Some disability images included). Author royalties go to the NSPCC. Age 3-6, Paperback 30pp

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In My Mosque

by M. O. Yuksel
illustrated by Hatem Aly

Ref: 17020

"In my mosque, we pray for peace, love and joy,,, just like my friends in churches, temples and synagogues". From lining up shoes in a row to handing out tasbihs to greeting the angels on our shoulders… all the peace, serenity and joy of a visit to the mosque. Easy, poetic text and gorgeous illustrations show a fulsomely diverse and global Muslim community as different children take turns to introduce their own unique mosque, their different services and communities. A generous-hearted book which ends with a warm welcome to the reader. Includes a lovely little glossary at the back. 'Oh wow! I loved this book! The illustrations were stunning and I particularly liked the diverse range of children, young people and their families portrayed. Beautiful to read aloud too!' (Hannah, Social Worker, Letterbox Library reviewer) Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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Insults Aren't Funny

by Amanda F. Doering
illustrated by Simone Shin

Ref: 14811

Francis calls Charlie mean names on the football pitch- which make him feel sick and very sad until, finally, it makes him want to give up football altogether. But a chat with his friend and then his football coach means the bullying is tackled early on. A useful, positive book about verbal bullying. The story is accompanied by little factual notes running along the bottom of the pages; there is also a teacher note and a glossary. Age 5-8, Paperback 21pp

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Ira Aldridge The Shakespearean Actor (I Was There)

by Judy Hepburn
illustrated by Ben Whitehouse

Ref: 16937

American-born, Ira Aldridge was the first Black actor to star in some of Shakespeare's leading roles. He earned his UK reputation performing extensively in Britain and Ireland in the early 19th Century, most famously as Othello at the Theatre Royal, London (where there is a bust of him in the foyer). Part of a younger historical fiction series told through a lively first person narrative and with comic illustrations. Comes with a glossary and a Historical Note. 'I found this book informative on many levels. Politically, historically, geographically, emotionally. It has a simple, clear language that children will understand though tackling some difficult issues' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'I thought it addressed difficult issues well and opened room for conversations about different types of exploitation' (Patrice, children's/YA author, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 7-10, Paperback 125pp

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Is It A Mermaid?

by Candy Gourlay
illustrated by Francesca Chessa

Ref: 15889

Two children on the beach spot a Dugong -or, rather, a Sea Cow- popping its large grey snout out of the sea. But this Dugong insists she is a she, not an it. And, she declares, with both flippers on her hips, she is a gorgeous mermaid, not a Dugong. Bel is happy to go along with the Dugong's self-identity as she trills and bounces in a mermaid-ish way. But Benji is very unsure about it all, protesting, "You are a Dugong!!!" Will he ever be persuaded?... Fresh, charming, playful and utterly delightful. Luminescent blues and greens show the sweeps of the ocean interrupted by bright flashes of iridescent sea life down below. As day turns to night, the pages become soaked in rusty orange and then inky purples. The text skips along lightly, perfectly capturing children's clear and animated dialogue. And the humour is completely infectious. Who knew that a YA author could jump so effortlessly into such a young age range- more, please, Candy! [ Set in the Phillipines. Nice little backnote on the endangered Dugong. Yes, Dugongs are real]. Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp

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Jamie

Ref: 14555

Jamie is super at fixing things, something her two older, meaner brothers are happy to exploit. And while they have their own personal fairy godmother to see to their every whim, Jamie is all alone...except for the odd friendly house mouse. When the local princess invites everyone to the Royal Ball, the brothers are quite clear that Jamie has no business going. But Jamie knows how to convert a pumpkin...and she knows how to stitch together a dj too. When she completes her disguise with a short, trendy haircut, Jamie looks in a mirror and suddenly feels...just right! Jamie has become Jamie and he's finally at one with himself. Off to the ball!...where he soon catches the eye of the princess. A very, very clever, smart and thoughtful book with a positive transgender protagonist which is pitched perfectly to young readers. 'There certainly aren't many books for younger children about transgender identities and this one is told very gently and sensitively' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager). ''Liked this reworking of Cinderella and a great story' (Deb, EY Lecturer). 'There is real wit and joy to the storytelling. I like the way the gradual revealing of Jamie's identity is embedded in the main narrative, the subtle shift form 'she' to 'he'. It's very clear...but...there is a lot to think about apart from 'just' Jamie's identity' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer). (All Letterbox Library reviewers). Age 5-8, Paperback 34pp Please click here for further resources from Pop N Olly

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The Jar of Happiness

Ref: 13840

A lovely feelings book in which a child invents a happiness which tastes of sunshine and smells of warm biscuits; she puts it all in a jar and carries it everywhere, sharing it with people along the way. But then one day her jar is no longer there...can her friends help her rediscover some happiness? 'Liked this. Gentle illustrations and a story of kindness and a girl as a budding scientific inventor of happiness! Yes!' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 3-6 Paperback 27pp

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A Jar of Pickles and a Pinch of Justice

by Chitra Soundar
illustrtraed by Uma Krishnaswamy

Ref: 14958

Prince Veera and his best friend, Suku, are back, holding court in the palace courtyard, eager to settle the local community's disagreements with sprinkles of wisdoms and a pinch of justice! A jar of tender mango pickles, counting crows and tickly noses are just some of the tricky issues up for debate. Trickster tales based on traditional Indian folk tales. Part of Walker's Racing Reads series. Age 7-10, Paperback 88pp

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Journey

Ref: 14941

A bored child in a sepia world, picks up her red crayon, draws a door and takes herself out to a forest world of Chinese lanterns and fairy lights to a kingdom of turrets and golden domes to strange flying machines in a deep blue sky to a re-entry into her world and... to a brand new friend! A rich, yet entirely wordless, narrative; a song to imaginative play, outdoor adventures, intrepid girls, friendships and extraordinary journeys. 'A wonderful picture book. The possibilities for use in literacy are endless. Beautifully illustrated and lovely to see a lead female character' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, LL reviewer). 'A stunning book- would provide wonderful language/story ideas for young children. So much to explore in this heart-warming book' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion manager, LL reviewer). Age 4-9, Paperback 34pp

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Joy to the World!: Christmas Around the Globe

by Kate DePalma
illustrated by Sophie Fatus

Ref: 16486

A truly festive revelation! Who knew Christmas took so many different forms across the globe: making kuswar treats in Goa, India; fasting and then Fattah-feasting in Egypt; spreading straw indoors in Serbia; sharing books through a huge Christmas Book Flood in Iceland. Notes on each festival/custom and gold-spotted/framed illustrations give this a beautiful finish. (Character cast includes several wheelchair users). Age 3-7, Hardback 38pp

More Info Joy to the World!: Christmas Around the Globe

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Julian at the Wedding

Ref: 16100

Julian is all ready for the wedding, decked in the finery of his purple, waist-tapered, suit. There he meets the irrepressible Marigold whose fondness for rolling about in the mud is encumbered by her flouncy peachy dress. But Julian has a solution...Minimal words and the most magical of illustrations infuse this celebration of a wedding between two (Black) brides, truly "a party of love." As ever, Love also confounds all the stereotypes of 'older' people by having grandmothers who have no time for 'conventions', who look on with an all-embracing, loving wisdom- and who belly-laugh and dance bare-footed in the grass. Sometimes a book comes along -such as Julian Is A Mermaid- which is so beautiful the weight of expectation must lie heavily with the creator; can they equal that debut or even up that? Well, here's the proof. Visual storytelling at its most blissful. 'Oh joy, oh rapture, the best character in picture books for YEARS is back and even more fabulous. Everything about this is pitch perfect...As with the book's predecessor, imagination, kindness and self-determination are the order of the day' (Mark, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 34pp

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Julian at the Wedding (PB)

Ref: 16832

Julian is all ready for the wedding, decked in the finery of his purple, waist-tapered, suit. There he meets the irrepressible Marigold whose fondness for rolling about in the mud is encumbered by her flouncy peachy dress. But Julian has a solution...Minimal words and the most magical of illustrations infuse this celebration of a wedding between two (Black) brides, truly "a party of love." As ever, Love also confounds all the stereotypes of 'older' people by having grandmothers who have no time for 'conventions', who look on with an all-embracing, loving wisdom- and who belly-laugh and dance bare-footed in the grass. Sometimes a book comes along -such as Julian Is A Mermaid- which is so beautiful the weight of expectation must lie heavily with the creator; can they equal that debut or even up that? Well, here's the proof. Visual storytelling at its most blissful. 'Oh joy, oh rapture, the best character in picture books for YEARS is back and even more fabulous. Everything about this is pitch perfect...As with the book's predecessor, imagination, kindness and self-determination are the order of the day' (Mark, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 34pp

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Julian Is a Mermaid

Ref: 15335

A young boy is obsessed by mermaids. One day, on the train with Nana, he is enthralled when they are joined by a trio of women dressed as exotic sea creatures, complete with swishy tails and flicky hair. Back at Nana's, Julian starts to use the things around him to transform himself, bit by bit, into the most glorious and glamorous of mermaids. But it is Nana who provides the final finishing touch. A break out hit of a picture book, famously endorsed by RuPaul on Twitter. A celebration of individuality, creativity, freedom of expression and intergenerational love and empathy. Wonderful artwork which soaks the pages in colour and warmth. 'Love, love, love this! Fab illustrations and a simple message effectively put over. Nice to see an older woman so open to difference and enabling of the boy. It's so great!' (Deborah, Letterbox Library reviewer, author of Gender Diversity and Inclusion in Early Years Education). Age 3-6 Paperback 32pp

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Kangaroo Kisses

by Nandana Dev Sen
illustrated by Pippa Curnick

Ref: 14237

"But I must hug my pup!" "And I must tuck you up!" Mum says it's time for bed. But her daughter is far too busy kissing kangaroos, cuddling hippos, flying with geese and nuzzling whale tails. A fantastically lulling bedtime story full of all sorts of bed-delaying tactics while cleverly soothing any child to sleep with wonderfully warm illustrations and rhymes which hug like the softest blankie. "Reassuringly cosy" (Maggie, Former Early Years Adviser, Letterbox Library reviewer). (Asian family) Age 2-5, Paperback 24pp

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King Leonard's Teddy

Ref: 16046

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2020 King Leonard is rich. Very rich. He has everything he wants. And, then also, a little bit more. And when those things stop working or get a little grubby, he simply replaces them. Single-Use-Leonard is his name. But tragedy strikes one night when the stuffing bursts out of his most beloved Teddy. Because as any child with a favourites toy knows, a thing like Teddy is completely and utterly irreplaceable. Can King Leonard make do and mend after all? On being shortlisted for the Little Rebels Award 2020, Phoebe Swan described her books as a challenge to our culture's fondeness for "over consumption and waste" while Catherine Barter on the Little Rebels Award website calls the shortlistee title, "A warm and witty picture book with a strong message about community and sustainability." Age 4-7, Paperback 36pp

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King of the Sky

by Nicola Davies
illustrated by Laura Carlin

Ref: 14983

"The streets smelled of mutton soup and coal dust and no one spoke my language. All of it told me, 'This is not where you belong'". A young boy feels isolated and excluded in a small Welsh town. But there is one thing which brings him the warmth of his old home- Mr Evans' homing pigeons, who strut as proudly as the ones in St Peters Square, Rome. And so, a lovely intergenerational relationship springs up between a young boy and elderly man, leading, finally, to a new understanding of 'home'. 'Beautiful pictures, good book' (Isak, aged 7, LL reviewer). A touching story of belonging and new beginnings. Endorsed by Amnesty International UK. Age 4-9, Paperback 52pp

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The King Who Banned the Dark

Ref: 15718

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2019 A king, troubled by a lifelong fear of the dark decides to, quite simply, ban it. To get the people on side, there will need first to be some scaremongering and rumour-spreading, so much so that the citizens come up with the idea themselves to enforce a darkness ban. With a large artificial sun mounted in the sky and a troop of officious Light Inspectors in place, how will the town survive under an all-light environment? "A witty picture-book with a lot of contemporary relevance, which skewers government propaganda and the misuse of power" (Catherine Barter, reviewing for the Little Rebels Award website). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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Kunkush: The True Story of a Refugee Cat

by Marne Ventura
illustrated by Beidi Guo

Ref: 15758

The true story of an Iraqi family who flee Iraq to Greece with their three-year-old Turkish Van cat, Kunkush. On their arrival in Lesvos, Kunkush is lost and joins the feral street cats, but is then taken in by two young women who go on to launch a social media campaign designed to reunite him with his family. A very original approach to discussing the devastating impact of war through a real life account, complete with additional resources (and weblinks), a glossary and discussion points. 'It tells a difficult, complex story and shows that good can be stronger than anything else. Children will love it' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). 'Heart-warming and distinctive perspective on the refugee experience' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, LL reviewer). An illustrated picture book for older readers. Age 7-12, Paperback 29pp

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La La La: A Story of Hope

by Kate DiCamillo
illustrated by Jamie Kim

Ref: 16128

A small, lonely child with a single note to share: "La"...A note which cannot find an echo anywhere. Not in the sunbeams, nor the leaves, nor the grasses, nor the pond. But then finally...there is a reply of "Las"! A gorgeous, single word, picture book about finding your song, and staying resilient, energetic and optimistic in that quest. Open to multiple readings and interpretations. 'Like the best picture books, this would work with a wide age range and could be constantly revisited and mined as the basis for many a classroom discussion or as a simple bedtime comforter.. .It is a terrific starting point for discussions about loneliness, difference, empathy, feeling excluded etc.' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). Beautiful format: a square shape; mixed-media illustrations; simple crossover hues of autumnal oranges/greens with a luxuriously deep purple. Easily attractive enough to deserve the longer-than-usual number of pages for a picture books. East Asian protagonist. Age 1-6, Hardback 68pp

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Last Stop on Market Street

by Matt De La Peña
illustrated by Christian Robinson

Ref: 14390

Winner 2016 Newbery Medal Every Sunday, come rain or shine, CJ and his Nana take the bus ride across town to the last stop on Market Street and, from there, to the soup kitchen. This Sunday, CJ simply isn't in the mood. But Nana turns the bus journey into nothing short of miraculous, answering all of CJ's questions with insight and wisdom which reveal the magic of the everyday and the wonders of humanity: "Nana, how come we don't got a car?" "We got a bus that draws fire." "How come it's always so dirty over here?" "Sometimes, when you're surrounded by dirt, CJ, you're a better witness for what's beautiful." A truly diverse mix of characters within a narrative which touches cleverly on class, economics and community cohesion with the gentlest of narratives. Published to huge acclaim, this book has garnered too many awards to list here! (Great disability images, too!) Age 4-8, Paperback 26pp

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Let's Celebrate: Special Days Around the World

by Kate DePalma
illustrated by Martina Peluso

Ref: 16448

13 festivals from around the world including both the familiar and the unfamiliar! From Kodomo no Hi in Japan to Carnaval in Brazil to Diwali in India. Rhyming text, pronunciation italics, luxurious-almost-tactile-illustrations. Amidst some more expected inclusions are the addition of Maori, Igbo and Persian festivals as well as a mixed race family shown celebrating Passover in N.America. Typical of Barefoot Books publishers, some superb backnotes includes a calendar of special days and full notes on each festival. 'Lovely introduction to a variety of festivals' (Rosalind, Workforce Development Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Interesting book introducing lots of lovely celebrations from around the world with notes. Lovely illustrations and diversity of families/people on each page' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 37pp

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Let's Eat Breakfast

Ref: 14735

Bananas on toast, cooked meats and cheeses, juicy fruits, frothy lattes, chapatis and congee rice porridge. A wonderful range of breakfast foods which are very delicious on the eye. Lively photographs, open-ended questions, sound effects, speech bubbles, teacher notes with reading together tips and extension activities all join together to create a very full resource. Watch out for the muesli recipe at the back. (Multicultural) Age 4-6, Paperback 21pp

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Let's Eat Dinner

Ref: 14741

When do you eat diner? How do you help get dinner ready? Which veg do you prefer? And would you opt for sizzling wok noodles or a tasty fish stew? Even has a recipe for a child-friendly, healthy, raita dip- perfect with curry and naan. Yum. Lively photographs, open-ended questions, sound effects, speech bubbles, teacher notes with reading together tips and extension activities all join together to create a very full resource. (Multicultural) Age 4-6, Paperback 21pp

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Let's Eat Lunch

Ref: 14738

Where do you eat lunch? At school with your friends or at home with your family? What do you enjoy- sausage sandwiches, crunchy salads or, maybe, Chinese dumplings? Hot food or cold food? Who knew one meal could be examined in such detail! Even includes a recipe for a delicious-looking Greek salad. Lively photographs, open-ended questions, sound effects, speech bubbles, teacher notes with reading together tips and extension activities all join together to create a very full resource. (Multicultural. Includes a child with Down's syndrome.) Age 4-6, Paperback 21pp

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The Little Island

by Smriti Prasadam-Halls
illustrated by Robert Starling

Ref: 16035

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2020 There was once a farm where all the animals lived and worked in a mutually supportive democracy. But, one day, the geese (and ducks) decide that they simply do not have enough room for the other animals. Surely, they muse, life was pleasanter and greener and rosier before their patch got quite so... busy? And so the ducks, under the instructions of the geese, bring down the footbridge which links their island to the mainland. But, as time passes and labour is meager and 'community' even thinner, their lives become all the poorer and their patch of land becomes vulnerable and exposed. Can the bridge be built back up? A modern parable fusing Animal Far with Brexit! Both author and illustrator have described this book as one they hoped would counter the messages of hatred so prevalent post-Referendum. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Click here to access the teaching sequence of activities for this book from Andersen Press, designed in partnership with CLPE.

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Little Leaders: Bold Women in History

Ref: 15937

A hugely successful debut which came about following the author's 2017 Black History Month Instagram posts in which she illustrated a single African-American woman in the guise of 40 icons who determined the course of history. The result is an absolutely gorgeous and award-winning collection of portraits accompanied by brilliantly brief yet full biographies. 40 figures shine through, from the ones you might expect -Sojourner Truth, Ella Fitzgerald, Oprah Winfrey-to more unexpected figures such as Audre Lorde, Julie Dash, Angela Davis. And, while this New York Times bestselling author/illustrator has understandably stayed quite US-focused, there are some UK Stars included in the mix...and some very interesting ones at that: abolitionist/author Mary Prince; British Royal Navy sailor, 'Seaman' William Brown; singer Shirley Bassey; MP Diane Abbott; javelin thrower Tessa Sanderson. A very attractive and fascinating chunk of history which includes a cut-out Little Leaders Bookmark on the cover fold, a glossary, further sources -books, films & songs- and an 'Extra' double page gallery of Little Leaders (with additional UK icons: Fanny Eaton, Zadie Smith, Nicola Adams and Olive Morris). Age 7+, Paperback 90pp

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Little Leaders: Exceptional Men in Black History

Ref: 15983

A companion to Harrison's Bold Women, this collection of 35 mini-biographies, while very Un-American-focused, does exactly what the author promises in narrating the "stories of exceptional men you don't often see in the mainstream". Side stepping the usual Greats (Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X, Barack Obama), Harrison instead zooms in on lesser known figures: James Armistead Lafayette, who spied on the British during the 1780s Revolutionary war; the late 19th century Deputy Marshall, Bass Reeves; the UK Social Reform Lobbyist, Harold Moody; UK activist, Paul Stephenson, famous for organising the 1963 Bristol bus boycott; more contemporary music icons such as Prince and Chuck D. As with Bold Women, the collection is immaculately presented- Harrison's trademark luminescent eyes-closed figures, an extra roll call of Little Leaders as an appendix (includes a nod to Stormzy), further book/films/albums and an illustrator's own guide to drawing your own Little Leader. Age 7+, Paperback 87pp

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Little People, Big Dreams: Ella Fitzgerald

by Ma Isabel Sánchez Vegara
illustrated by Bàrbara Alca

Ref: 15155

Another stunning little bio. in this series, this time focusing on Ella Fitzgerald, from her harsh early life (described in a way which is cleverly pitched to the young reader), to her first steps on the jazz club scene, to her solo career as the First Lady of Song. Discover how she played her voice like an instrument, inventing new words -"Dubi-dubi-dubu-daba"- and singing across genres from pop to blues. As with other titles in the series, the book ends with a fuller biographical note with archive photos. 'Yes, yes, yes!! I want the whole set! It is always powerful to see mighty women represented in books. To have a whole set of diverse women is great.' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, Letterbox Library reviewer.), Age 5-8, Hardback 26pp

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Little People, Big Dreams: RuPaul

by Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
illustrated by Wednesday Holmes

Ref: 16888

"Don't ever think we are born just to fit in a box, we are born to stand out" (RuPaul). Fabulous addition to the LPBD series. From a San Diego child channelling magic through dress-up, to a punk band teen in prom frock & army boots, to a 21-year-old Lower East Side drag queen, to makeup star, to pop star to, finally, the TV and radio creator and presenter we know today. A flamboyant tribute to a LGBTQ+ and drag icon, amidst some positive messaging about challenging gender stereotypes and bellowing out your uniqueness. The pages are, everywhere, draped in rainbow swirls and twirls. 'This book echoes a comforting message, spreading the idea that it is good/okay to be different...I hope children enjoy this book and the new ideas it brings' (Nicole, Teen Letterbox Library reviewer). Extra plus points for the Diana Ross cameo and the POC version of the Rainbow Flag. Age 5-8, Hardback 28pp

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Little Red

Ref: 14664

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2017 A bold, stark and subversive retelling of Red Riding Hood. Little Red is hooded and booted, alert and on guard, strategic and cunning, brutal when needed and… utterly fearless. Includes a perfect refrain for children to join in with: "Which might have scared some little girls. But not this little girl." A simple palette of monochrome, cut across by dashing red, this is by a very talented new artist who won the 2015 Macmillan Prize for Illustration. 'Brilliant, modern day, twist to a classic fairy tale. Everything about this book is strong- a fearsome hero for all children who hear this tale' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp

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Little Red Riding Hood and the Dragon

by Ying Chang Compestine
illustrated by Joy Ang

Ref: 17113

"By now, you have probably heard the old folk tale about a girl in a red cape. She and her grandmother were gobbled up by a wolf and were rescued by a woodsman. The truth is that the tale took place in China, there wasn't a woodsman and I, the gentle wolf, certainly was not the one who ate them. Here is the real story..." And so, in a village close to the Great Wall, we meet kung fu expert, Little Red, whose journey to see her Nainai (rice cake and herbal soup in hand) is rudely interrupted by ... a fearsome, yellow, whiskered dragon! Will this tale turn out any differently? And will we catch sight of a wolf at all? By an American-Chinese author and East-Asian-Canadian artist. Motifs from Chinese culture and mythology are woven through with a helpful Author's Note to pull these all together (including an itemised list of things found in dragon's belly...) Age 4-7, Hardback 40pp

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Lollipop and Grandpa and the Wobbly Tooth

by Penelope Harper
illustrated by Cate James

Ref: 15333

Lollipop is very proud of her gleaming, shiny teeth. And then, one day she wakes up to a wobbly, bibbly-bobbly tooth. Grandpa has all sorts of plans for its removal- a pulling tug-of-war team, a tapping woodpecker, a sucking elephant trunk...but it is a shiny red apple which finally does the trick, followed by a quick trip to the dentist to check everything is as it should be. Age 4-7 Paperback 29pp.

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Look Up!

by Nathan Bryon
illustrated by Dapo Adeola

Ref: 16008

"All I know is that one day I'm going to be the greatest astronaut, star-catcher, space traveller who has ever lived." Meet Rocket- a budding astronaut who is getting all of her prep in right now: catching exotic species, spaceship-building, reading up on the dustiness of meteors, victory dancing.... In a world where everyone is looking down- at their phones, their newspapers, the floor- Rocket is pitched firmly upwards. Can she get everyone to join her in looking up for the amazing Phoenix Meteor Shower? Will brother Jamal finally put his phone away? Everything about this picture book soars: the ambition of its sparky protagonist, the nod to superstar Mae Jemison, the individuals who come together in a shared moment of outer-worldy wonder. The child-friendly illustrations resemble a near-edible spread of treats: Mum's daisy-patterned leggings, Rocket's gleaming orange astrosuit matched only by the kitten's, the child in pink tutu and lurid spotted green wellies, the dancing supermarket fruit. As for the hairstyles...! Mum has really excelled herself with Rocket's expert cornrow-puff combo. On every level this is a winner. (nb: single parent household) Paperback 29pp, Age 4-7

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The Lost Property Office

Ref: 15489

A child goes on the train to Grandpa's house. There is sooo much to see- and, in the middle of all those distractions, Teddy gets lost on the train! That night, at Grandpa's, she dreams of the most magical place- an entire room of lost things. Which sparks an idea... A warm story about a calamity familiar to so many children- the loss of a favourite toy. The illustrations are fantastic (as you would expect from a Tate publication); every surface is strewn with the multiple things people discard, lose and leave behind. Children will enjoy decoding these additional visual layers of narrative. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Lubna and Pebble

by Wendy Meddour
illustrated by Daniel Egnéus

Ref: 16123

Lubna leaves her old world and awakes to find herself in a World of Tents. Luckily she has Pebble, clutched snugly in her hand. Pebble listens and smiles back at her. When it gets cold, Daddy makes sure Pebble is well protected in a shoebox. And then, one day, along comes another child, Amir. A child in need of a friend and, quite possibly, also, a Pebble. A sensitive, astute and original narrative about a child's arrival and survival in a refugee camp. Brilliantly captures a child's point of view on a potentially traumatic environment. We witness Lubna 'managing' her surroundings and nurturing herself through a controlled, episodic, introspection, a self-hug which she then slowly moves out of to offer comfort and friendship to a peer. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp

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Lulu's First Day

by Anna McQuinn
illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw

Ref: 15782

Lulu has practised story time; she has her water bottle; she has laid her clothes out neatly... all ready for the big day. Unusually for starting school books, this one stars a child who is full of excitement about her first day, showing a level of confidence which will boost child readers about to make their transition to Big School. Wonderful. Age 3-6, Hardback 24pp

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Lulu Loves Flowers

by Anna McQuinn
illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw

Ref: 14269

"Lulu, Lulu, extraordinary / How does your garden grow?" Lulu never fails to delight, enchant and tickle our Letterbox Library reviewers. Here, inspired by Mary Mary, Lulu decides she wants her own flower garden. As ever, everything she needs to know can be found in a book- from planting the flower seeds to nurturing them, to making the necessary accompanying cupcakes for the flower garden party she holds! 'Lovely colourful illustrations telling the story of Lulu and her garden' (Carey, Childminder, LL reviewer).'Engaging and positive characters...Great storyline linking to outdoor play, poems & rhymes & reading, healthy eating, creativity and sharing. I like the links to the website for extension resources. Delightful illustrations and a proper story!' (Kate, Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer). Age 3-6 Paperback 24pp

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Lulu's Sleepover

by Anna McQuinn
illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw

Ref: 16504

The exuberant, tripping-over-herself-with-fun, Lulu is back. And, tonight marks her very first sleepover! She is off to stay with cousin Hani, Auntie Zari and Auntie Jina. But first, she needs to pack an excessive amount of outfits (from kanga dress to dungarees) and, of course, her favourit-est books. Once Daddy has dropped her off and there have been lots of goodbye kisses, playtime begins... bridge building! water pictures! movies & popcorn! It all ends in a magical, fairy-lights-draped, bed and, of course, a special bedtime story. An everyday, thoroughly relatable, childhood experience, pepped up, as always, by Beardshaw's brilliant illustrations and full of carefully considered details (from the many patterned clothes to the cat pyjama end pages to the fixing up of Lulu and Hani's bedtime hair through puffs and gathered braids). [Black family; same-sex couple/aunties]. Age 3-7, Hardback 27pp

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Luna Loves Art

by Joseph Coelho
illustrated by Fiona Lumbers

Ref: 16391

From the dynamic duo who brought you 'Luna Loves Library Day', sprightly, bouncy Luna is back and this time she's on a school trip to an art gallery. Dad packs her up with her backpack, lunch box and instant Camera and she's off! The gallery is ablaze with excited visitors, so why is classmate Finn acting up so much? Parent helper, Luna's Mum, suggests perhaps all he needs is a friend. Can Luna lift his mood with the Art Bug? A careful and sensitive story about different family backgrounds (Luna's parents are separated; Finn is experiencing an unspecified family breakdown). Absolutely splendiferous emulations of 'real art' by Coelho -Warhol's Campbell Soup! Matisse's Snail! Kusama's Pumpkin!- with a full list of works included at the front of the book. "Love the setting and story! A school trip to an art gallery with real art!" (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). (A host of diverse background characters, including a wheelchair user and a child who wears a hearing aid). Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp

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Luna Loves Library Day

by Joseph Coelho
illustrated by Fiona Lumbers

Ref: 15637

Luna enjoys her special weekly visit to the library. Mum drops her off and Dad is always already there, waiting, with his head in a book. Together they explore the stretchy Big Book section, the bug books area and a history book which describes the island dad grew up on. And then, together, they read a fairy tale -a genius addition of a book enclosed within this book- about a troll king and a mermaid queen who argue so much they decide to separate. An expansive book which manages to wrap up a story of family separation within a wider celebration of books, reading and libraries. A gorgeous ode to libraries and parental love (mixed race family). 'The whole thing is really beautiful and to be honest I did cry a bit...a beautiful book about a normal experience many children go through yet many people feel too awkward to explore or do so in a way that's too straightforward' (Josephine, teen reviewer for LL). Age 4-7, Paperback 22pp

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Luna's Red Hat

Ref: 14164

A very important book. It is the start of Spring. But, Luna insists, today is not a day for smiling. Because today is the anniversary of her mum's death or, rather, her mum's suicide. Luna rages at her dad, "People you love don't get to stop living and leave you behind!" An extraordinarily difficult subject is given an honest and, nevertheless, soothing and reassuring treatment by a picture book for the very young. Luna's Dad allows her to express both her grief and her fury; he answers every question she has; he explains her Mum's illness; he banishes Luna's irrational guilt at her mum's death. Complete with a guide for carers by a bereavement specialist. 'A lovely, sensitive story' (Carey, Childminder, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Book allows Luna to express strong feelings, ask painful questions and, with support form her dad, to have a future that includes happy memories of her mum' (Maggie, Former Early Years Adviser, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 5-8, Hardback 24pp

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Made by Raffi

by Craig Pomranz
illustrated by Margaret Chamberlain

Ref: 13583

Raffi is a shy boy who doesn’t like noisy games and is often teased at school. But when he gets the idea of making a scarf for his dad’s birthday he is full of enthusiasm, even though the other children think it is girly to knit. Then the day draws near for the school pageant, and there is one big problem - no costume for the prince. And that’s when Raffi has his most brilliant idea of all - to make a prince’s cape. On the day of the pageant, Raffi’s cape is the star of the show. Age 4-7, Paperback 40pp

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Malala's Magic Pencil

by Malala Yousafzai
illustrated by Kerascoet

Ref: 15276

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2018 If Malala had a magic pencil like the boy in the TV show she used to watch, she'd use it to "draw a better world, a peaceful world....erase war, poverty and hunger....draw girls and boys together as equals". Told in her own words, this is the story of Malala Yousafzai's childhood in Swat Valley, Pakistan. How she loved school and worked hard until the Taliban took control and banned girls from attending. How she dared to speak out against the regime and became a target. How she has continued to speak out, inspiring adults and children all over the world. A wonderful, age-appropriate picture book. Beautifully illustrated and wonderfully empowering. Age 5-9, Paperback 38pp

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Mama and Mummy and Me in the Middle

by Nina LaCour
illustrated by Kaylani Juanita

Ref: 16876

On Monday, Mummy, a film director, goes off on her work trip, leaving Mama and their child behind. She won't be back until Sunday. In between there will be school circle time, zoom calls, virtual hugs, library trips, food shops and movie nights. But there will also be grey skies, tears and a whole lot of missing. A very child-friendly, true-to-life yet soothing, picture book about a child's feelings in the face of a temporarily absent parent. Lavish spot art/full bleed illustrations cover the narrative in a glow of familial love. There are lots of fun details in the pictures such as the tiny night time racoons and the huge array of hairstyles in the classroom scene. Plus, some thoughtful inclusive details such as Chloe's neck brace, the shared hair bonnets/complex hairstyles of the protagonist and her Mummy, the film's Black female superhero, the child's Black doll. N.b.: Mama is White (with purple hair and multiple floral tattoos!); Mama is Black. Age 4-7, Hardback 30pp

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Mama Miti

by Donna Jo Napoli
illustrated by Kadir Nelson

Ref: 15347

(trans. The Mother of Trees). Subtitled, 'Wangari Maathai and the Tress of Kenya', this is not the first story we have sold about this revolutionary environmentalist- but it is certainly one of the most beautiful. Brought up with the wisdom of trees, as an adult, Wangari Maathai went on to dispense her knowledge by encouraging the planting of different trees which would in turn bring a wealth of materials and nourishment for local Kenyan communities, creating a new self-sufficiency and, ultimately, the reforestation of great swathes of Kenya's landscapes, tree by tree by tree. A lyrical retelling of the greatness of Wangari Maathai: the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace prize, the first female head at a Kenyan university department and the originator of the Green Belt Movement. Illustrated by a much celebrated artist- a backnote has Kadir Nelson describing his use of oil paints and printed fabrics to emulate an Eastern African aesthetic. 'Excellent. Skilful writing and attractive illustrations present an important story. Simply told, but with enough detail to enable it to provide a good foundation on the topic. Very good afterword, glossary etc.' (Elena, Community Librarian, Letterbox reviewer). Age 7-10 Hardback 32pp

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The Many Colours of Harpreet Singh

by Surpriya Kelkar
illustrated by Alea Marley

Ref: 16811

Harpreet is a fan of colours. Lots of colours. He has loads of patkas in loads of colours to suit every possible mood. But, when Mum's new job means moving to a different part of the country and starting at a new school, Harpreet just wants to disappear. And so, increasingly, he sticks with the colour white. One day, just as Harpreet feels himself disappearing into a blanket of fresh snow, a girl in a fluffy smiley woolly hat extends a warm mitten-hand...which has Harpreet reaching out for blazes of colour once more! Accompanied by an explanatory backnote on the significance of Sikh turbans and patkas. By an Indian-American author with an equally established track record in scripting Hindi films! UK (British-Barbadian) illustrator). 'Positive portrayal of Sikh family. Nice way of centring the patka without making it an issue' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, Letterbox Library review team.) Age 4-7, Hardback 26pp

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Marv and the Mega Robot

by Alex Falase-Koya
illustrated by Paula Bowles

Ref: 17115

"Dear Reader... Marv is a superhero, and he looks like us and that's really cool. He's one of us". Marv's creator grew up wanting to be a superhero. He had all the costumes. He knew all the comics. But he rarely ever saw superheroes who looked like him or his friends. Now, all grown up, that's about to change. Meet Marv...Marv, not Marvin; raised by dad, when he's not doing shifts as a nurse; raised by Grandad when he is; discoverer of a superhero suit heirloom; powered by kindness and imagination; accompanied by sidekick, Pixel, who has "elevated excitement levels". Can Pixel and Marv get one over a cackling supervillain called Mastermind? An upbeat, super-powered, illustrated early reader with a simple, striking monochrome and blue pallet. By the winner of Spread the Word's 2019 London Writers Award. Age 6-8, Paperback 114pp

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The Marvellous Doctors for Magical Creatures

by Jodie Lancet-Grant
illustrated by Lydia Corry

Ref: 16825

From the team who brought you The Pirate Mums (look out for their cameo!) comes another quirky upbeat story where the 'twist' isn't quite where you'd expect it to be. Ava isn't strictly a doctor...as yet...but her dads certainly are. And this is certainly no average family. The twist? It's not that Ava has two dads (why would that be a 'twist'?!) It's that these dads treat hoarse dragons and spotty mermaids! They are in fact very marvellous doctors treating very magical creatures. But when Glitterbug the Unicorn rocks up at the surgery, it looks like only Ava is able to carry out the necessary investigations, diagnosis and prescription. Meet your first ever Goth, Bowie-esque unicorn. Loads of fun and silliness with some smooth messaging about being true to your own, very unique, identity. After all, there's always been more than one way to be a unicorn. Age 3-7, Paperback 30pp

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Mary and Frankenstein

by Linda Bailey
illustrated by Júlia Sardà

Ref: 16693

"In that strange, lost time between wake and sleep, she has a kind of daydream. She sees a hideous monster, made of dead body parts, stretched out-and coming to life!" An account of the life of the UK's very own Mary Shelley and, in particular, the famous ghost-story-swapping night she shared with her literary contemporaries... during which she began work on her very own creation: "Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus". First published in 1818, Shelley's remarkable work of gothic fiction marked the origins of sci-fi fiction and birthed, arguably, the greatest fictional monster. And all this from a young 18-year-old woman in a world dominated by men. A lovely retelling with Sardà's watercolor-and-digital illustrations providing the perfect gothic moodiness. A picture book pitched at a slightly older and broader age range than usual. Will be a springboard for budding authors and illustrators. Plus -hello! English teachers!- it offers a tantalising trailer for reading Shelley's novel. Age 6-10, Paperback 42pp

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Mayor Bunny's Chocolate Town

Ref: 17171

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2023 Mr Bunny's Chocolate Factory was shortlisted for the Little Rebels Award in 2018. And five years later, he's back! This time, his ambitions are set on becoming mayor of Coop Town through a strategic campaign of fake news, empty policies, scare mongering and by rubbishing the opposition. Nothing like anything we would witness in today's real-life politicians...! Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

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Me and My Fear

Ref: 16805

This book's protagonist has always had a tiny blobby friend called Fear by her side. Fear has been companionable, protective and purposeful. But, since arriving in a new country, Fear has expanded and bulked up several fold. And now, a sweet little spongy blob has become something engulfing, a barrier and a block to new experiences and change. Fear tries to stop her going to school, won't let her play with others at break time and is desperate to get back home again. An engrossing and skilful exploration of anxiety which ultimately shows the reader how to shrink their worries back down into manageable feelings. Perfect for exploring life transitions and for new arrivals. 'A lovely and original way of exploring fear and isolation' (Kerry, Letterbox Library Staff). By an award winning visual storyteller. Endorsed by Amnesty International. Age 3-7, Hardback 32pp

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Me and My Sister

Ref: 15632

Written by one of Inclusive Minds' very own Ambassadors (http://www.inclusiveminds.com/inclusion-ambassadors.php), this tells the lovely story of two siblings. This brother and sister have their differences- she doesn't use words a lot, she is sometimes rude to nanna, she likes to play with (live!) frogs, she doesn't always like hugs. But she also makes her brother laugh and they do lots of things together- listening and bopping to music, getting muddy outdoors and finishing their food at the exact same time. A gentle and clever story about having an autistic sibling. Age 3-7 Hardback 29pp

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Meesha Makes Friends

Ref: 16398

Meesha loves making things. Lots and lots of things. But the thing she finds very hard to make is friends. She stumbles for the right words, she can't find the best way to join in. She can, however, make cut out chums with glue and buttons and string and Choco Crunch and Moo's Milk boxes. And, it turns out it is her making things which helps her make a new friend! A really original approach to children's friendship in its recognition that some children really struggle to develop the skills needed to reach out to others. Percivals's trademark reduced palette. Here, monochrome shot through with red, blue and pink. South Asian protagonist. Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp

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The Memory Tree

Ref: 15388

Fox has lived a long and happy life- and now, finally, he is tired. He walks off to a clearing in the forest, lies down, falls asleep and never wakes up. One by one, Fox's woodland friends come to sit near him. And, one by one, they begin to share memories of their own special times with Fox. As they do so, a tiny seed buds into a sapling and then grows into a tree which climbs higher and higher, preserving their memories and lightening their hearts. Beautifully textured illustrations with all the tones of autumn by an internationally renowned artist. 'Always room for gentle stories like this portraying loss/memories of happy times. I really like it.' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). 'The illustrations are beautiful and the text just right' (Eileen, Former Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 4-7 Paperback 26pp

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Migrants

Ref: 16662

Against a blackest-ink background, a group of anthropomorphic creatures, carrying just the clothes on their backs and a few pots and pans, make a perilous journey through forest and across seas, stalked constantly by the robed figure of Death and their familiar, a giant blue Ibis. A wordless picture book which movingly depicts the plight of desperate migrants. 'This is a powerful book of strength, loss, compassion and ultimately hope...wow! I loved this book!' (Sonia, Primary Headteacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Wow! This is tough but stunning. The illustrations are absolutely beautiful. You could start so many conversations [with this]- climate change, animal extinction as well as migration' (Patrice, children's/YA author, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 5-10, New Zealand Import, Hardback 32pp

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Mike Falls Up

by Candy Gourlay
illustrated by Carles Ballesteros

Ref: 16916

Mike and pup, Bowow, are busily resting at the summit of one of the Chocolate Hills (Bohol province, Philippines) when a sudden mini earthquake causes a CRACK! followed by the THWACK! of an airborne birthday invitation which invites Mike to fall up- yes UP, not down- into a fireplace in Kaneisha's home in snowy London! Next on the agenda in this zany beginner reader is a fantastical party hosted by Rocky the Rock Monster with games of Pass the Puppy, Monster's Footsteps and a feast of chocolate bolder cake. A fun and mischievous early chapter book and an adventure in making unexpected friends. 'This story is good', says Georgia, aged 10 (Letterbox Library reviewer), 'and shows that things can seem scary at first but are not'. Age 5-8, Paperback 87pp

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Milo and Monty

Ref: 17027

Puppies Milo and Monty have come to live with the McKenzies. But while they like doing lots of things together, Milo very often prefers to be left alone quietly. One day, when the house is especially noisy, Milo goes off to his favourite beneath-the-desk spot. To his surprise, someone else is already there... Cousin Henry! The wider family soon notice how similar Henry and Milo are. Both have a favourite toy, neither likes to be hugged, both gravitate to quiet, cosy spots, both prefer a set daily routine. And so, the McKenzies simply adapt to fit around Milo's needs. An excellent book for introducing empathy and awareness of differences, it is also a fantastic prompt for a conversation about autism and how small adjustments can make someone who is autistic feel safe and secure. (Features both a mixed race and a single parent family). Age 4-7 , Paperback 28pp

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Milo Imagines the World

by Matt de la Peña
illustrated by Christian Robinson

Ref: 17141

From the team who brought you the magnificent, award-winning, Last Stop on Market Street! One Sunday, each month, Milo pops on board an underground train to visit his mum. Every time, he fees like a "shook-up soda" with a belly full of butterflies. To distract the wobbles, he carefully notes every passenger, from the concentrating whiskered man beside him to the child with the brightest whitest Nikes to the young break dancing women who walk up the walls. (Count the faces turned down to mobile phones while Milo peers around and about everywhere!) With each one, he imagines their lives- where they live, how they live. But are his imaginations anywhere close to the truth? And where will his journey take him? A fantastic story and a really good platform for talking about how we form assumptions and judgements about others. Expressive, poetic language, perfect for extending vocabulary. The interjection of Milo's own casual crayon pictures are a lovely touch. (Theme: family in prison) Age 4-8, Paperback 36pp

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The Moonlight Zoo

by Maudie Powell-Tuck
illustrated by Karl James Mountford

Ref: 16587

The moon is high and the night is in full swing, but Eva can't find her cat, Luna. She misses her rocket-engine purr. And so, Eva creeps out on a search at dusk, encountering a magical place: The Moonlight Zoo, home of lost pets, with a Penguin Palace, Monkey Island, Wolf Mountain.... A dreamy, night time, peep-through adventure, with clever die cuts, layered up pages, a muted mauve palette- and starring a protagonist who wears a hearing aid. 'Really lovely book. Beautiful illustrations and paper engineering' (Beth, Inclusive Minds founder, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 20pp

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The Most Beautiful Village in the World

Ref: 15816

A powerful book exploring the impact of war in a fresh, compelling way; dedicated to "the children of Afghanistan." Rich, burnt-orange artwork introduces the village of Paghman, Afghanistan. We witness a community going about its daily life through the eyes of a young child as he joins in the harvesting of plums and cherries and accompanies his dad to market in a bustling neighbouring town. The presence of war is kept at a distance in the background images while the foreground teams with the bright colours of a thriving modern town with its bazaars and teahouses and mosques. Until the final page... 'Very evocative and moving... very original and real' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Mgr., Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Enjoyed the cheerful dialogue and beautiful illustrations. Thought that the sense of community was nice' (Nicola, young Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 6-8, Hardback 40pp

More Info The Most Beautiful Village in the World

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Mr Bunny's Chocolate Factory

Ref: 15304

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2018 A fun, anarchic picture book about a fat cat, or rather Mr Bunny, and his chocolate egg factory run by chickens and a quality control unicorn. When ever-greedy Mr Bunny decides production must go up and up and up, the machines are stretched to breaking point, the choc-egg-laying chickens are overfed to the point of sickness, bad eggs begin to turn up in the production line and customers start to complain...all of which merely prompts Mr Bunny to cancel all employee holidays. The tired and poorly chickens finally go on strike, leaving Mr Bunny with a dilemma. Will the Big Chick Protest win the day? Unchecked capitalism, workers conditions, ethical and cooperative working practises all made immediately accessible through a highly comic narrative which never minimises the issues at play. Reminiscent of the protesting moo-cows of Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type (2000). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Mr Watson's Chickens

by Jarrett Dapier
illustrated by Andrea Tsurumi

Ref: 16837

Mr Watson (White) lives with Mr Nelson (East Asian). In a honking house. In a honking city. With a titchy yard, shared with 2 dogs, 3 cats and a mere handful of chickens. Except, before long, the chicken numbers start to grow. And grow. One day the chickens count in at 456. The noise, topped off by Aunt Agnes clucking Shooby-doo on a loop, becomes a little challenging. Especially for Mr. Nelson, who threatens to leave. What can Mr. Watson do? He loves his chickens. But he loves Mr. Nelson far more. The silliest of chook tales which incidentally stars a same-sex couple. (Some nice background context too in the incredibly detailed Where's-Wally-esque spreads: rainbow and trans pride flags; an ethnically diverse wider community, a range of families etc.) Age 3-6, Hardback 40pp

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My Dad is a Grizzly Bear

by Swapna Haddow
illustrated by Dapo Adeola

Ref: 16435

Dad has scratchy-scritchy fur, he eats up all of the honey, he naps and he grumbles; he also growls out the loudest karaoke renditions; he likes to pitch up in the woods; he gives the bestest bear hugs. A great spoonful of Dad-love, served up with Adeola's supremely expressive illustrations. Watch out for the double page spread showing a cinema audience, bathed with light effects and filled with our full range of humanity, from an Edwardian monocled man to a nose-pierced, blue-puffball-styled woman. 'I found myself smiling throughout reading this book.' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Mixed race family. British South Asian author and British Black illustrator. Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp

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My Footprints

by Bao Phi
illustrated by Basia Tran

Ref: 16071

In this affirming story, Thuy finds the might she needs to rise above her peers' prejudices by stomping out a snowy path, her two Mums foot-printing close beside her. An affirming tale of bullying overcome. 'I love this book, the writing is very poetic and the story is charming with an independent heroine...the continuing ideas of footsteps is one that small children can relate to' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, LL reviewer). (Asian-American and Vietnamese-Polish author and illustrator). Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp

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My Grandma and Me

by Mina Javaherbin
illustrated by Lindsey Yankey

Ref: 15879

"In this universe full of many moons, I have travelled and seen many wonders, but I've never loved anything or anyone the way I loved my grandma". The author reflects on her life in Iran growing up with her Grandma. Full of shared intimacies, it's a wonderfully warm hug-of-a-life. Even when Mina is with best friend, Annette, her grandma is nearby, knitting blankets with Annette's, donating them to their respective mosque and church. Illustrations incorporating Persian designs, evoke a rich, contemporary Iranian setting, smoothly blending the traditional with the contemporary. 'Beautifully captures the heart of their special relationship. Thoughtful, touching and honest. The cultural references feel authentic. Lovely!' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, LL reviewer). 'Loving kindness is at the heart of this story which is told and illustrated with a delicate touch' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 4 to 7, Hardback 30pp

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My School Unicorn

by Willow Evas
illustrated by Tom Knight

Ref: 16612

Evie has the wobbles. Nursery was fun. Big school sounds, well, scary. But Madame Lexi's Emporium might just provide the perfect anxiety-soothing solution...is it the new smart uniform? Or could it be an actual unicorn? A pointy-golden-horned unicorn...? First day at school has never been so magical, nor so exciting. Very pinkified, complete with a sparkly pink-maned unicorn, but also loved by our reviewers for its portrayal of a single parent/Dad (Black) family and its realistic description of big-school-wobbles. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp

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My Skin, Your Skin

by Laura Henry-Allain MBE
illustrated by Onyinye Iwu

Ref: 17005

"We are all born with beautiful skin. We are not born racist. Some people feel uncomfortable talking about race, but we do not need to be". Subtitled, "Let's talk about race, racism and empowerment", this book ranks very highly for us as a clear, accessible and eminently child-friendly introduction to discussions about racism. Refreshingly direct, empowering- and positive, it comes with a helpful glossary (for e.g., "Anti-Blackness" & "culture"), questions/prompts and some superb tips for adults about how to use the book with children. Written by an international, award-winning, early education expert. Praised highly by our reviewers: 'Really useful non-fiction for early years to support teaching of anti-racism. Good explanations and can help to build dialogue, especially for less experienced teachers' (Edyta, Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library Reviewer). 'Inclusive and colourful book about a very serious, complex behaviour that impacts on all people...Every organisation which works with children should have one. Highly recommended' (Ann Marie, EY Safeguarding Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-8, Hardback 29pp

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Nen and the Lonely Fisherman

by Ian Eagleton
illustrated by James Mayhew

Ref: 16412

Nen the Merman yearns for...something...and every night he leaves his underwater kingdom to go a-seeking. Ernest the fisherman also aches for...something...and spends his evenings gazing out on to a moonlit sea. A tender song over the waves brings the two together, bathing them in hope and happiness. But Palagios, ruler of the underwater kingdom, is about to exact his anger on the ocean polluters above...Can Nen and Ernest survive the ensuing storm? The last time we had such a lyrical evocation of an intimate relationship between men was surely back in the days of 'Hello Sailor' (2003 UK; 2000 the Netherlands). How wonderful to now have something home-grown, from a UK author/illustrator team, and one which equivocates far less and, instead, joyfully celebrates romantic love between two men. An absolute treat. (Also a brilliant take on The Little Mermaid and an excellent environmental subtext.) Age 4-8, Paperback 26pp

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The New Neighbours

Ref: 15703

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2019 There is a family of rats newly arrived in the tower block. The bunnies are hoppingly-excited. But the other residents have their concerns. Vern the sheep thinks they will be dirty; Matilda the pig thinks they will smell; Astrid the polar bear knows about their 'reputation' for stealing. It might be wise to knock on the new neighbours' door and find out what's what... "An irresistibly smart and funny picture-book which satirizes contemporary fears and preconceptions about 'newcomers'" (Little Rebels Award website). Age 4-7, Paperback 31pp

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New Shoes, Red Shoes

by Susan Rollings
illustrated by Becky Baur

Ref: 17034

"Friends' shoes, comfy shoes, tiny little baby shoes...Big shoes, twinkly shoes, Mary Jane and boating shoes". Every conceivable pair of shoes. No, really. All of the shoes! Look out especially for the ladybug heels, the peachy fluffy numbers and the starry platform boots. A parent and child head for a day out, arriving, finally, at a shop full of shoe treasures... all of the busy backgrounds are very inclusive. 'Lovely book. Bright and colourful. Good rhythm and rhyme. Lots to look at. I think children will enjoy this as they love to tell me if they are wearing sandals, trainers or wellies when I ask them to put their shoes on!' (Carey, Childminder, Letterbox Library reviewer). Mixed race family. Age 2-5, Paperback 28pp

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The New Small Person

Ref: 14396

An author who needs no introduction. Here, Child introduces the ever-endearing Elmore Green, a once happy child whose bliss is disturbed by the arrival of a new small person. "The new person was small and didn't do much at all but still people picked it up and smiled at it and gave it things to chew..." As ever, Child perfectly captures an unmediated child's voice and point of view as Elmore very slowly starts to grasp some of the benefits of a new sibling...such as bedtime huggles and someone who understands the importance of lining up toys neatly. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Number Fun: Making Numbers with Your Body

Ref: 13907

A rich photographic resource which shows children making number shapes with their bodies from 1 all the way up to 20. With familiar objects to count along the way, teachers' notes, suggested number games (number charades, anyone?) a picture body glossary and clear photos of children stretching, curving and working in pairs, this book encourages numeracy fitness! Written by a Reading Recovery tutor. See also Alphabet Fun in the same series Age 3-5, Paperback 30pp

More Info Number Fun: Making Numbers with Your Body

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Omar, the Bees and Me

by Helen Mortimer
illustrated by Katie Cottle

Ref: 16509

It all began with new arrival, Omar, bringing a wedge of Mum's honey cake to show & tell, inspired by his grandpa's beekeeping. Prompted by Omar's story, teacher Mr Ellory-Jones, gets the children to make a bee corridor with scrunchy pink tissue paper...but Omar and Maisie decide that they want to take the corridor outdoors! Soon they are rallying all of Class One to wild-up the local neighbourhood. By summer time, buzzing bees are making the flowers fizz and new pals Maisie and Omar have become 'Momar'. A story of creativity, teamwork, making friends, new beginnings, sustainability and happy bees! Honey cake recipe and bee facts flourish on the end pages...(Extra-nice 'casually inclusive' touches include an ethnically/racially diverse community, disability and gay representations- Mr Ellory-Jones has a husband). 'What a lovely inclusive book with great illustrations. Community involvement, Working together. Yes!' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Office, Letterbox Library Reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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On Sudden Hill

by Linda Sarah
illustrated by Benji Davies

Ref: 14492

Every day, Birt and Etho take their cardboard boxes all the way up Sudden Hill to play for hours and hours, enjoying their special, "two-by-two rhythm". But then, one Monday, a small child called Shu appears with his own box, wanting to join in...Can their friendship take a new addition? A new, three-by-three rhythm? A superb celebration of imaginative and creative outdoor play. It is also a gentle story which will resonate with lots of children as a group of boys negotiate a new friendship group with thought, empathy, mutual respect, care and real kindness. How good to see a bunch of boys allowed to express emotional intelligence. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Ossiri and the Bala Mengro

by Richard O'Neill & Katherine Quarmby
illustrated by Hannah Tolson

Ref: 14641

Ossiri is a Traveller girl, one of the Tattin Folki who toil day in and day out, recycling, renewing and selling on all manner of goods. When Ossiri discovers her inner musician, she decides to craft herself a special instrument out of scraps. Music to her own ears, her family aren't quite so convinced by her melodies...But then, when the family move on to Lancashire, Ossiri takes her music up on to the peaks where she is greeted enthusiastically by a great big yawning ogre, the Bala Mengro. Indeed this beastie seems to be able to turn her music into gold! The very talented Richard O'Neill, a Romani storyteller, gets this traditional Traveller tale in print and in doing so, not only offers a perfectly formed read aloud but also a casual insight into Travelling culture. "Has all the component of a stompingly good fairytale with its hairy ogre, its pint-sized hero and its journey towards good fortune. I'm a fan! (Now where can I find my own pair of very shiny leather boots!' (Fen, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp

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Our Story Starts in Africa

by Patrice Lawrence
illustrated by Jeanetta Gonzales

Ref: 16956

"'You, me and your cousins are from the oldest family in the world,' Tante Janet says. 'And our story starts in Africa.' 'My story doesn't start there, Tante!' Paloma says. 'I wasn't born in Africa.' Tante smiles…" A visit to her family in Trinidad launches Paloma onto a whirlwind tour of African history, beginning with an ancient warrior queen from the Kingdom of Kush. Another picture book triumph by the award-winning Patrice Lawrence in which she communicates important truths to the youngest of children through artful storytelling, here complemented by Gonzales' brushstrokes which light up the contemporary Trinidadian scenes and bathe the historical sections in golden sepia tones. 'A beautiful book. I just loved it.' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Beautiful storytelling and illustrations. I love how they were able to simplify the history so it is understandable for children without losing the meaning. Very educational and important story that was brought to life with bright colours and illustrations' (Nicole, young Letterbox Library reviewer). Includes some wonderfully simple historical backnotes and suggestions for further reading. Age 4-8, Hardback 32pp

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Out of the Blue

by Robert Tregoning
illustrated by Stef Murphy

Ref: 17201

In a world saturated by blue and governed by blue-only laws which confine rainbow colours to the technicolour trash, one little boy keeps his love of yellow a secret. Ashamed and afraid, he stashes his yellow prizes (rubber duck, submarine, yellow tights!) in the closet, only opening the doors at night to release his treasures. And then, one night, his dad walks in on this whirling yellow glow. The child is terrified. But his Dad surprises him. "Could loving yellow be ok"? Drawing on his own experience of growing up in the 1990s, under Section 28, the author says, "It often felt like the world I was living in wasn't designed for me to fit in to it and that I had to hide parts of myself to be accepted. The colour law in Out of the Blue and the boy's secret love of yellow are a way of visualising those feelings" (Picture Book Perfect blog 23/2/23). (Single parent family/Dad.) Age 4-7, Paperback 31pp

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Over the Shop

by JonArno Lawson
illustrated by Qin Leng

Ref: 16863

A chipper child lives with her grouchy, downward-turned-mouthed grandparent above their shop. When they advertise the flat above for rent, prospective tenants rush away from the dilapidated home. But then, one day, a couple peer in hopefully at the 'Flat to Rent' sign. The grandparent doesn't like the look of them and snatches the sign away. But the child thinks these new guests could be just the right fit and pleads their case. The deal is sealed and the couple move in, bringing with them help, hope, love and more than a few licks of paint. And sooner than you might expect, a new stitched-together family of four is made. It is very difficult to convey quite how beautiful this wordless book is. It is, ultimately, a story of belonging, community and prejudice overcome; of 'outsiders'- two people of colour, probably two women (in any case a queer couple)- entering an inward-looking neighbourhood and creating a new household in their wake. At the centre sits a kind, observant child who embraces all of her world. Children will enjoy the parallel plot of a wandering, neighbourhood stray cat who naturally slots into the new family at the end. Classrooms will enjoy folding out all of the layers of the visual narrative. There are discussion points everywhere. 'I absolutely adored this. The pictures are gorgeous and the story satisfyingly full of detail yet easy to follow... Subtly but delightfully affirming, this will appeal not just to children who instantly recognise families like these but to many others who will respond to the warmth and inclusiveness that pervades the book' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). NB: many of the gender identities are ambiguous and at least one reviewer has suggested the East Asian adult in the newcomer couple is a trans man which is certainly a possible interpretation. A trained 'queer' eye will note the book's dedication and will spot some extra visual signifiers in the detailed, delicate ink-and-watercolour illustrations. Age 4-9, Hardback40pp

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Owl Bat Bat Owl

Ref: 16653

4 owls -a parent and 3 babies- snooze atop a branch. 4 bats -a parent and 3 babies- swoop in to hang below. Parent owl doesn't like the look of the newcomers and shuffles the flock along. But then comes a great gust of wind and a great big tumble down. Who will be saved? A simple, striking, wordless picture book about creatures (and people!) who are unalike sharing the same space in the world. 'Loved this. Everything about it made me smile- you could have a whole conversation about the birds' expressions. I love these wonderful picture books where you don't have to read English to enjoy it with children' (Patrice, YA/children's author, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'I love this. Completely accessible for kids with reading difficulties. A story told powerfully in pictures' (June, Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-7, Paperback 29pp

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Pacho Nacho

by Silvia López
illustrated by Pablo Pino

Ref: 16617

An extended family argue about what their newborn's name should be. In truly democratic style, the child is named after all 8 name suggestions, creating the longest, most beautiful, of names. But, will this little tongue-twister prove an asset or a hindrance in later life? Based on the Japanese folktale of Jugemu, a tale which has spanned at least 3 continents but, says the author, which missed Hispanic America. Relocated here, to Mexico, a comical retelling with a wonderful smattering of Spanish words. Cuban-American author and Argentinean illustrator. Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp

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The Parrot and the Merchant

Ref: 15429

A Persian merchant, Mah Jahan, travels far and wide collecting gorgeous birds which she cages and chains. But her most prized possession is her talking parrot from India- and the parrot's greatest desire is to be free again... An accessible yet rich and haunting narrative about loving someone/thing enough to set them free. Unique artwork which relishes the fine details of textured fabrics and bustles and shimmers with colours. Based on a thirteenth century fable from famed Persian Sunni Muslim poet and philosopher, Rumi, recast and reframed by this illustrator so as to star a female merchant. 'I really like this simple fable and original illustrations- very appealing' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox reviewer). 'A simple, beautifully retold fable. This would be a lovely model for writing in Primary schools' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, Letterbox reviewer). Age 5-8, Paperback 21pp

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Patricia's Vision: The Doctor Who Saved Sight

by Michelle Lord
illustrated by Alleanna Harris

Ref: 16714

An account of a very brilliant life- the inventor of a laser probe used to remove cataracts and, subsequently, the first African American woman doctor to receive a medical patent. Doctor Patricia Bath (1942-2019) was also profoundly concerned with social justice, using medical interventions to support those unable to access or afford care, leading to her recognition by President Obama in 2009 for her work with the blind. An original addition to Black History's timeline. 'Really thorough insight into a lesser known Black story in the UK mainstream. A nice complement to texts of trailblazers and helps broaden types of achievements recognised in this space' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 6-10, Hardback 41pp

More Info Patricia's Vision: The Doctor Who Saved Sight

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Pattan's Pumpkin: An Indian Flood Story

by Chitra Soudnar
illustrated by Frané Lessac

Ref: 15031

Farmers Pattan and Kanni replant and nurture an ailing pumpkin which then grows and grows...by the time the rains descend and a storm threatens to wash them all away, the pumpkin is huge enough to act as a perfect escape vehicle for them, along with the local flora and fauna. Today, some of Pattan's descendents live in the same valley (the foothills of the Sahyadri mountains), nurturing and tending to their environment, which includes growing... pumpkins! A delightful story which originated amongst the Irular tribe from Kerala, Southern India and has been cleverly adapted here by Chitra Soundar. Complemented by Lessac's trademark bright palette and childlike block pictures. 'Lovely illustrations, brilliant storyline' (Nike, Social Worker, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp

More Info Pattan's Pumpkin: An Indian Flood Story

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Pearl Power and the Toy Problem

Ref: 14936

Pearl Power is back and this time, she and her new bestie, Sebastian, take on the marketing forces which target toys to children according to their gender. Provoked by newcomer, Jerome, who tells Pearl she can't play with his dinosaur because, "THIS is a dinosaur, YOU are a girl!", the children decide to challenge the advertising industry who spread those pernicious messages about boys' toys and girls' toys in the first place. And so, they pen a letter to the "TV Boss" in their very neatest handwriting, prompting a surprising and welcome reply. 'I enjoyed reading this book that clearly shows that girls are the same as boys. Many people don't realise that there is no written rules to say that girls can't play with boys' toys and boys can't play with girls' toys' (Nicole, aged 11, LL reviewer). A clear, uncompromising message in a good, strong, rhyming story. 'Would lead to a lot of discussion and talking' (Deborah, Ed. Lecturer, LL review). And if the gendered marketing of toys or books raises your hackles, get yourself over to the brilliant, joy-filled, campaigning group, Let Toys be Toys (http://lettoysbetoys.org.uk/) Age 4-7, Paperback 34pp

More Info Pearl Power and the Toy Problem

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The Perfect Shelter

by Clare Helen Welsh
illustrated by Asa Gilland

Ref: 16618

A child builds the perfect shelter out in the woods with her sister, their parents watching on. The narrator knows that something isn't quite right with her family. And, when the rains come, her sister isn't there to help stack the sticks high and patch over the cracks with leaves. Instead, she's in hospital and even Dad's fairy cakes can't bring any cheer. But maybe, just maybe, they can bring the sanctuary of their together-shelter indoors? A rare and much-needed book addressing long term illness in the family from a young child's point of view. Soft illustrations and a text full of tenderness. "Whilst it does not shy away from the reality of cancer, the balance is spot on, striking a successfully positive and heartwarming pitch, reminding us all to fully appreciate the precious moments together as we ride out our various storms" (BookTrust website review). (Mixed race family). Age 4-8, Paperback 27pp

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Pirate Baby

by Mary Hoffman
illustrated by Ros Asquith

Ref: 15858

When pirate ship Ramshackle comes across a bawling, floating baby, the crew are stumped. When they discover it's a girl baby they are doubly flummoxed. But soon, the rhythms of the days at sea circle around Baby Isla as this band of pirates adapts and caters to her needs- Spoons the Cook sews her a stack of nappies, Red Bart the Bosom creates a toy squid for her, Jolly Roger the Captain simply...adores her! Have the pirates lost their pirating mettle? Or have their numbers simply got stronger? A gentle challenge to gender stereotypes, given extra pizzazz and spark by Ros Asquith's trademark illustrations in which humour simmers and bubbles in the tiniest details (the on-ship tins of jellied babies, the pirate knitting patters by "Hook & Aye", The Wicked Wench ship of fearsome women, Plunderpuss the cat...) Oh- also, there are pirates. Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp

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The Pirate Mums

by Jodie Lancet-Grant
illustrated by Lydia Corry

Ref: 16656

"Billy's family was not what you'd call ordinary". His two mums sing sea shanties, their pet is Birdbrain the parrot and the style of their house is somewhat...fishy! So when his mums volunteer to join the school trip to the seaside, Billy is initially totally mortified. But when their boat ride is interrupted by rumbling thunder and banging lightning bolts, Mummy and Mama -and a few rainbow flares- are just what's needed to bring them home safely. A good addition to a small but, finally, growing collection of UK-published picture books with lgbtq+ content. By an author keen to reflect back to her daughter her two-mum family. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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The Pirate Tree

by Brigita Orel
illustrated by Jennie Poh

Ref: 16800

The crooked old tree on the horizon doubles up as Sam's very own pirate ship. When newcomer Agu (from Nigeria) asks to climb aboard, Sam is, at first hesitant: "You're not from my street," she protests. But soon, a game of desert islands, fearsome pirates and a circuit of Cape Horn brings them together. A simple idea of imaginative play forging and cementing new friendships, executed through lovely illustrations (the fishy end pages are delightful). Age 4-7, Hardback 24pp

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A Place to Stay: A Shelter Story

by Erin Gunti
illustrated by Estelí Meza

Ref: 16094

An anxious child isn't sure about the new shelter her mum has taken her to. She finds it hard to find 'home' there, to find her place there. But through her mum's boundless, comforting imagination she is finally able to find a place of familiarity. An expertly written, child-centred text which can be used to explore the many different traumas which force families into homelessness and to seek places of sanctuary. Written by a social services professional and with input from a Domestic Violence charity. 'This book helps us to empathise with the trauma of losing home but it also has at its heart a loving mother who is able to help he child, using her creativity of thought to make the change more bearable' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). 'What an excellent book- and very much needed (Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, LL reviewer). Includes a backnote on shelters and homelessness. Age 5-9, Paperback 27pp

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A Planet Full of Plastic (And How You Can Help)

Ref: 16178

The purpose of plastic, its original discovery, its revolution in manufacturing, its overuse and, now, its appearance...everywhere with all the environmental dangers it threatens. In Neal Layton's hands, the catastrophe of excess plastic becomes lucid, and the possible solutions to the problem become accessible. With a chatty text, detailed pictures, labels and diagrams, mixed fonts, glossary and mini bios of young climate activists, this is non-fiction at its most energetic and galvanising! 'Written in a non judgemental way, this book is helpful in saying what the problem is and how everyone can help to solve it whilst giving space for the reader to come up with solutions' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Officer, LL reviewer). 'It's one of the best books I've seen on this subject' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 4-8, Paperback 30pp

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Planet Omar: Unexpected Super Spy

by Zanib Mian
illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik

Ref: 16408

Omar, friend Charlie and reformed-bully-now friend (see the 1st in the series!) Daniel are gearing up for an Epic Nerf battle. All they need now is to get the cash together to buy themselves the necessary Laser Nerf Blasters. But when news flashes up on the local Whatsapp group that Omar's secret-smile mosque may have to close down, the children decide to divert their fundraising efforts towards a -woohoo!!- talent competition to raise the cash. The usual Omar-tinged mayhem and comedy ensue. The second in the 5-books series from Little Rebels Awards Winner 2018 (and UK British Muslim) author, Zanib Mian. A delectable series which never wanes in its humour, its gentle messaging and its dismantling of stereotypes of Muslim lives. Unexpected Super Spy delivers as expertly as the first! (Do look out for the treat of the multi-costumed girl, pp. 139-40, who wears an Iron Man costume under a Spider-Man costume under a Batman costume...!) Diary of a Wimpy Kid, to which Mian's work is often compared, has nothing on Planet Omar. For more details, see our listing on this website for the very first in the series, Planet Omar, Accidental Trouble Magnet. Age 7-10, Paperback 217pp

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Planet Omar Accidental Trouble Magnet

by Zanib Mian
illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik

Ref: 15690

Winner Little Rebels Award 2018 The rowdy, scatty, upbeat voice of 9-year-old Omar introduces the reader to his life in a new school which comes complete with a resident racist bully, a situation which only shifts once the two share an unexpected adventure through the London Underground chased by (probably...) a Zombie. A zany, cleverly challenging, warm-hearted book which is scattered with Omar's own, comic-tinged guide to Muslim life in the UK. A speedy plot carried by a hugely loveable protagonist who embraces a joyful Muslim identity for himself. The first in a new series! Age 7-10, Paperback 211pp **A new edition of the Winner of the Little Rebels Award 2018, 'The Muslims'**

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Plenty of Hugs

by Fran Manushkin
illustrated by Kate Alizadeh

Ref: 16642

Two adoring mums take their toddler out for a bike ride through the countryside, stopping off to enjoy wiggly worms, pick up a punnet of strawberries, take in a gazelle or two… A delightful day out from morning to bedtime, swept all over with an intimate embrace of family. 'The closeness of the family radiates from every picture- you don't need the text to explain any of it and yet those jolly little rhymes add an extra layer of warmth' (Mark, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Hardback 28pp

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Polonius the Pit Pony

by Richard O'Neill
illustrated by Feronia Parker Thomas

Ref: 16304

Polonius the Pit Pony envies the freedom of the Traveller family ponies. So, one day, he breaks out...and catches up with them! Grandad isn't convinced he'll adapt but Lucretia adopts him in a heart beat and when Daddo's new truck won't manage the journey to carry their goods to the docks, Polonius is the only pony skilled enough to brave the fog. A gentle tale of determination and (a gentle) courage, highlighting Traveller values of hard work and initiative. Based on a fascinating history (supplied in a backnote) of the use of pit ponies in British mines. By famed Romani storyteller, O'Neill. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Pretend Friends

by Alice Hoyle
illustrated by Lauren Reis

Ref: 14161

6-year-old Little Bea has a special pretend friend, Nye Nye, who has green wings and who is great for making mud pies and carpet-flying with. On the days Bea doesn't want to play with Nye Nye, she simply waves Bye Bye and Nye Nye disappears. Big Jay has very different pretend friends. These ones stick around whether Jay wants them to or not- and they make him feel sad and scared. A fantastically clever book which explains hallucinations caused by schizophrenia and other mental health illnesses to very young children and which also helps children think about ways adults with these hallucinations can be meaningfully supported. Very child-friendly and child-appropriate. "I love the idea of this book as I love books that tackle issues that some people will be lazy and pass off as 'it's too difficult to explain to a child'" (Josephine, teen reviewer for Letterbox Library). "An amazing book that tackles a difficult topic" (Elaine, Educational Psychologist, Letterbox Library reviewer). Comes with lots of supportive back notes. The author is an Advisory Teacher for the PSHE Association and is a member of Rethink Mental Health. Age 4-8, Hardback 36pp

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The Princess and the Castle

Ref: 14239

Genevieve hates the sea. One day her dad went out to sea and never came home... So, while her imaginative play takes her on exciting journeys, she can only dream of going to the castle far away across the bay. And then along comes Cedric- is he an ogre? Or a cuddly bear? He certainly makes mum smile...And one day, he persuades Genevieve that perhaps, just perhaps, she might visit that castle after all. A hugely positive books about grief, transition and healing told, skilfully and convincingly, from a child's point of view. Binch's brilliantly realistic illustrations simply sweep across the page. This is 'real' storytelling, told with such honesty, heart and soul. 'Stunning illustrations. Powerful storytelling with emotions that can be felt throughout' (Meryl, Early Years Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp

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Princess Arabella's Birthday

Ref: 15038

It is Arabella's birthday but what do you get a princess who already has everything? Well, according to Arabella, you get her an elephant! But, the trouble with elephants is that they don't necessarily do what they're told...particularly when they're missing their home environment. What will Princess Arabella do with a mournful, weeping elephant? A delightful story with gorgeously fresh, bright and 'smudgy' illustrations, complete with nellyphant end pages! 'Fantastic illustrations, charming storyline' (Nike, Social Worker, LL reviewer). We can't get enough of this publisher, Cassava Republic. Dedicated to "changing the way we all think about African writing" they recently expanded their office base from Abuja, Nigeria to...London! Age 3-6, Paperback 26pp

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The Princess and the Fog

Ref: 14166

By an author who lives with depression, this is a beautiful picture book exploring a complex issue through the 'comfort' of a fairytale format. The story first introduces us to a princess who is happy at school, at play and at home- until, very gradually, a big swirly black fog comes into her life, slowly enveloping her, leaving her tired and sad and unable to accomplish even the easiest of tasks. Her parents try everything; they even try to erase the angry scrawl above her head with an enormous pencil rubber. It takes a special friend who is persistent in his visits and who finally gets her to talk for the fog to start to dissipate. The story ends with a series of supportive strategies suggested by friends, family and professionals. A thoughtful and empowering book for young children who are living with depression. Comes with a guide for carers. 'Very helpful for children to identify with and to understand and support others who are depressed' (June, Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Wow. Supportive, empathetic and great illustrations. Helpful to all' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Commissioning Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 38pp

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The Princess and the Pony

Ref: 14312

Debut picture book by a much-loved Canadian webcomic artist. In a land of warriors, tiny warrior princess, Princess Pinecone, is growing tired of the comfy cutesy sweaters she receives each and every birthday. This year she begs for a great strong horse. She ends up with...a tiny pony. Worse- a tiny, farting, pony. On the day of the Great Battle, Pinecone fears they won't stand a chance. But perhaps a tiny pony has disarming powers all of its own. A charming tale full of warriors of all genders and ethnicities with a more-than-endearing mixed race lead. Age 4-7, Paperback 32pp

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Prince Rama and the Demon King

by Damian Harvey
illustrated by Manuel Sumberac

Ref: 16439

A young illustrated chapter book from the perspective of Joe who is invited to join his friend Sanjeeva for his family's Diwali celebrations. From the candles leading up to the front door to the Rangoli designs to the samosas and curry, Diwali is in full swing round at the Varma household- and storyteller, Grandpa Ramesh, is on hand to entertain the children with the adventures of Rama and Sita. Ends with some tips for budding young writers on how to base a story on a festival they want to share. Age 6-9, Paperback 29pp

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The Promise

by Nicola Davies
illustrated by Laura Carlin

Ref: 12880

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2014 A street thief in a "mean and hard and ugly city" nearly snatches a woman’s handbag...the woman tells the child she can have the bag if she makes a promise in return. It’s a promise she keeps and its consequences bring about her own and her environment’s transformation. A picture book which explores our relationship with nature and offers a vision of a new harmony. Ages 5-8, Paperback 38pp

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The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family

by Ibtihaj Muhammad with S. K. Ali
illustrated by Hatem Aly

Ref: 16265

"The first day of wearing hijab is important, Mama had said. It means being strong". It's the "first-day hijab" for Asiya. Little sister, Faizah, is very excited for her and approves of her choice of an ocean-coloured, sunny-skied blue. To Faizah's bafflement, some school children point, ask questions and throw insults. But, with great pride and love, she witnesses Asiya rises above the stares and words, with the echo of her mother's supportive voice buoying her up. (Co-) Written by an American-Muslim Olympic medallist fencer, the text is flushed through with (Egyptian-born Canadian) illustrator, Aly's luxurious, brightly coloured, ink washes. 'I had a smile on my face throughout the reading of this wonderful book. Fab storytelling, illustrations, relationships and imagery. Yes, yes, yes!!!' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). A wonderful book about hijab and family. Age 4 to 7, Paperback 33pp Click here to access the teaching sequence of activities for this book from Andersen Press, designed in partnership with CLPE.

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Pugs of the Frozen North

by Philip Reeve
Sarah McIntyre

Ref: 16774

The Race to the Top of the World! It comes around once in a lifetime, and the prize? Your heart’s desire. Sika's Grandfather is dying but the Snowfather grants wishes. Can Shen and Sika win the race to him? The path to victory is littered with snow trolls, sea monsters, and a gang of particularly hungry yetis. But Shen and Sika have something the other contestants don’t have. Actually, they have 66 other things; pugs to be exact. That’s a 264 paw-powered sled! Age 7-12, Paperback 213pp

Queen of Physics

by Teresa Robeson
illustrated by Rebecca Huang

Ref: 16709

Subtitled, 'How Wu Chien Shiung Helped Unlock the Secrets of the Atom'. All hail the first person to prove beta decay and disprove the Law of Parity. Named 'Queen of Physics' by Newsweek in 1963, those aren't even the only Firsts from Chinese physicist, Wu Chien Shiung (1912-1997). Learn about this woman's incredible discoveries and her struggle to get these achievements recognised in a patriarchal field of work. 'Never heard of her before to my shame. This is a lovely book which will be an excellent one to use in school' (Fiona, School Librarian, Letterbox Library reviewer). A very attractive production with a brilliant glossary of physics geekery. Positrons and neutrinos, anyone? Hong-Kong-Canadian author and Taiwanese illustrator. Age 6-10, Hardback 41pp £12.99

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Questions and Feelings About...Bullying

by Louise Spilsbury
illustrated by Ximena Jeria

Ref: 16275

A useful account of different types of bullying, from name calling to cyberbullying as well as explanations of what is -and what isn't bullying- and what to do if you are being bullied. 'Good definitions of bullying throughout, the impact of it, why people may bully and what to do' (Rosalind, Workforce Development Officer, LL reviewer). 'The rhetorical questions are great as it helps children to know what to do in a similar situation' (Hannah, Social Worker, LL reviewer). Includes parent/teacher notes, ideas for classroom/group activities and further sources of information. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

More Info Questions and Feelings About...Bullying

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Quiet!

Ref: 14502

A bright, bustling, book showing a child's evening and bedtime routine through auditory landmarks- the pinging of the microwave, the babbling of the TV, the rustling of (Braille) book pages turning, the splish splash of the bath, the deep quiet voice of a father singing a lullaby. Dad as primary (and possibly also the single) carer and a toddler who experiences their environment through sounds. Very inclusive and especially relatable to those who may be blind/partially sighted. (Mixed Race family) Age 3-5, Paperback 27pp

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Quill Soup

by Alan Durant
illustrated by Dale Blankenaar

Ref: 16469

A retelling of the famous Stone Soup folktale, starring Noko the travelling porcupine and featuring a host of interesting creatures: Monkey, Meerkat, Aardvark, Warthog and Pangolin. Dedicated by the publisher to endangered animals and illustrated by a South African artist drawing on influences from Tanzinian and West African art. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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The Rabbit Listened

Ref: 16168

A small child builds something. It comes crashing down. He sits hunched up on the floor, forlorn and low. Creatures rush in to 'help'. The chicken suggests chatting; the bear suggests a good roar; the ostrich suggests burying their heads in the sand... all to no avail. And then, along comes a rabbit, a quiet rabbit who simply...listens! Soon Taylor is talking, laughing, shouting and, finally rebuilding. We have seen a flurry of books recently on kindness and empathy but this one really is exquisite. Celebrates the emotional art of 'active' listening and how to adopt patience and silence in the face of someone's loss or pain. An Empathy Lab choice 2020. Age 3-7, Paperback 32pp

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Ready Steady Mo

Ref: 14695

"Run in your slippers, Run in your vest, Run in your onesie, Run and get dressed". An ode to running- dressed any old how, anywhere, anytime, any place...expect perhaps not in class! Rhyming text and poppingly bright pages full of children sprinting about the place, led by Little Mo and with a universal MOBOT on the final double page spread. We defy any child not to want to get active after reading this! 'Fab book that made me smile on every single page. Great rhyming, great illustrations, great ideas to get children running/exercising and enjoying books!' (Meryl, Early Years Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 3-5, Paperback 28pp

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The Red Boat

Ref: 13363

Posy has just moved home and is bursting with anxieties. But a magical red boat at the bottom of the garden becomes a vehicle for some fantastic imaginative role play which soon soothes Posy's fears...A super book for exploring first time nerves and transitions as well as being, quite simply, a good story. 'Warm and humorous, this book explores a child's fears of the new and unknown' (Kate, Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer); 'charming and humorous' (Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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Riding A Donkey Backwards: Wise & Foolish Tales of Mulla Nasruddin

by Sean Taylor & Khayaal Theatre
illustrated by Shirin Adl

Ref: 15920

Meet Mulla Nasruddin, a smart trickster, possibly based on a real-life 13th century figure and appearing in several guises across many different Muslim cultures. Both wise and foolish, brilliantly insightful and wonderfully silly, sometimes an imam, sometimes a judge, famous for riding his donkey backwards...or is he facing forwards and is it the donkey who is facing backwards?! A sprightly, snappy, fun-loving text is accompanied by witty collage pictures (Nasruddin's pointy, wispy, cotton wool beard is especially delightful). A hit with our young readers. 'Includes a lovely range of playful short stories. I really enjoyed the visual scene of different colours, textures and fabrics...a good insight into Muslim culture; helps us to learn kind values and traits' (Nicole, teen Letterbox Library reviewer). By a British-Iranian artist and an author who worked alongside Khayaal Theatre whose mission is to challenge assumptions about Islamic culture. Age 6-10, Paperback 42pp

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The Roller-Coaster Ride

Ref: 16674

Vincent and Gran grab the bus to the beach. As they cross an identifiably UK landscape, from the city and past the windmill and the wetlands, Gran suggests they head straight to Funland's roller coaster, a promise which fills Vincent's head with bursts of imagination. Will they go all the way up in to space? Will they need to hang upside down like bats? But when they reach the amusement park, they're faced with an unexpected obstacle...can a Super Deluxe Magnifico ice cream possibly, just possibly, save the day? Breezily inclusive illustrations. Stars protagonists of colour; Vincent has an upper limb difference; a diverse background population includes tech-savvy older people, independent and active disabled people and same sex/gender couples. An extra nice touch on the inside cover: a pencil drawn map of the route the bus takes. 'Anticipation, disappointment and accepting change all explored positively.' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 28pp

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Roman and Iris: A Story About Bullying

by Nancy Loewen
illustrated by Elisa Paganelli

Ref: 16781

Roman is off to summer day camp. Go-karting and playing galaxy slime is great- but, soon, another child starts to spoil his fun, staring at him, bumping in to him, taking his things away. Can Roman get the support he needs? Includes 'Next Steps' at the back, designed to help adults talk to children who are being bullied as well as those at risk of bullying others. 'I'm really impressed with how this book approaches this subject for young children. While giving lots of help and empathy for the child being bullied, it also acknowledges that the bully might need help too' (Kerry, letterbox Library Staff). Age 4-7, Paperback 21pp

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Rosa's Big Sunflower Experiment

Ref: 16679

Rosa has the entire sunflower experiment under control: filling up the pots with soil, taking the seeds out of dried sunflower heads, planting up the seedlings and so on, all the way through to transferring the delicate baby shoots outside. Key science processes are identified as Rosa and her friends perfect the ideal conditions for germination. Part of a series designed to inspire a lifelong love of STEM subjects. 'What a lovely book. Great intro to STEM through nature and lots of interesting vocabulary. Clear inclusive illustrations' (Rosalind, Nursery Operations Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). (nb: Rosa's friend, Shala, wears a wrist splint). Age 3-6, Hard cover/card pages 16pp

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Ruby's Worry

Ref: 15485

Ruby is a happy energetic child. Until, that is, a little blob of a worry comes to visit her. At first it's easy to dismiss but, with each passing day, the blob grows and grows. Ignoring it seems like a good strategy. And then it seems like a very poor strategy. Finally, Ruby meets another child who is also being haunted by a great big blob. And so they chat. Ad, as they do so, the most marvellous thing starts to happen...A straightforward, wonderfully executed, narrative about anxiety, mindfulness and self-help- perfectly pitched to children. Age 3-7, Paperback 29pp

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Run, Little Chaski!

by Mariana Llanos
illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson

Ref: 17097

An Inka Trail Adventure by a Peruvian author, inspired by the messenger system used by the Inka in ancient times. Little Chaski takes a message made of rope and threads from the Queen in her palace all the way to the King at the temple. There are many obstacles along the way- a pesky road-crossing chinchilla, a drowning allqu, a trapped condor. Will Little Chaski manage to deliver his message before Tayta Inti/father sun sets? A sprightly text incorporates Quechua words and, combined with illustrations inspired by Peruvian folk arts, introduce lots of fascinating regional landscapes and fauna. Typical of Barefoot Books, the backnotes provide a trove of additional knowledge: a glossary, information about the Inka, the Inka Trail and the role of chaskis/couriers; a map of the Inka Empire, an introduction to the South American animal stars of the story. 'A really charming story about Inka culture accompanied by vibrant and appealing illustrations' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Sand Between My Toes

written by Caroline Cross
illustrated by Jenny Duke

Ref: 17039

Just a scattering of words- but each one carefully plucked and polished up in a rhyming text. Illustrations which feel so immediate and tactile- the sand seems to kick up at you and the waves drift in... A family enjoy a day in a recognisably domestic coastal scene. Beach huts, lollies, sandcastles, chips and sauce and, even, a rain shower! Our reviewers loved this. 'Such a lovely book! The sparse, rhyming text is beautifully matched with illustrations which conjure all the senses that are alive to sea, sun and sand' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Lovely rhyming and images, lovely mixed family. Lots to observe on each page with diversity of the surrounding people on the beach' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). N.Bs: one of the child protagonists wears leg splints; blended family; mixed race family. Age 3-6, Paperback 28pp

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Sarah's Two Nativities

by Janine M Fraser
illustrated by Hélène Magisson

Ref: 16624

Sarah's Grandma Azar tells her stories from the Holy Koran and cooks up kofte with her. Sarah's Grandma Maria tells her stories from the Bible and bakes up cupcakes with her. But the very best stories they tell Sarah are those of the nativities. A gorgeous picture book -gorgeous in text, sentiment and illustrations- which enfolds Islam and Christianity into one, warm and joyous family celebration. 'I love this book! It really exemplifies the beauty of exploring commonalities in religions. My children loved it when I read this in assembly' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 22pp

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Scarlet Hood

by Mark Evans
illustrated by Isobel Lundie

Ref: 16270

Scarlet comes from an 'itchy feet' family so moving to Norway is no big deal... but she hadn't reckoned with her new school being home to Greta the Cruel, a mean menacing giant of a child. After tearfully spilling out her woes to her Grandma (helped along by a few marshmallows) Scarlet is sent back out into the world wearing a treasured family heirloom: a scarlet hoodie. The hoodie doesn't just hug her with happiness and hope, it time-travels her off to an ancient world of Vikings. Here, Scarlet discovers hidden reserves of strength which equip her back in the present. A highly original, fun and, insightful adventure of bullying overcome with a heart-warming resolution. (Graphic novel perfect for reluctant readers.) Age 6-10, Paperback 52pp

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The Seed of Compassion

by The Dalai Lama
illustrated by Bao Luu

Ref: 16442

The Dalai Lama takes us from his earliest years amongst his farmer family in north-eastern Tibet -where his mum "planted in me the seed of compassion"- to his education as a monk in Lhasa where he studied 'compassion' to his founding belief: that compassion exists as a seed in every child which, with enough love, can flourish. This lovely picture book introducing some of the tenets of Tibetan Buddhism ends with the Dalai Lama telling children how they can nurture the seed of compassion within themselves. US-Vietnamese illustrator. Age 6-10, Paperback 31pp

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The Shape Song Swingalong (+ Music/Animation CD)

by Stevesongs
illustrated by David Simm

Ref: 15003

A group of children hold up a range of shapes- circles, squares, triangles and lines- from which they are then inspired to draw skyscrapers, seascapes, and park parties. Bold, bright, rhyming, rhythmic and full of energy! Comes with a CD of animations and join-in, catchy tunes. (Includes one child who wears a leg splint.) Age 3-6, Paperback + CD, 22pp

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She Persisted Around the World 13 Women Who Changed History

by Chelsea Clinton
illustrated by Alexandra Boiger

Ref: 15181

"All over the world, girls are more likely to be told to be quiet, to sit down, to have smaller dreams. Don't listen to those voices". A companion to the No 1 New York Times bestseller, She Persisted, which focused on inspirational N. American women, this new title looks at thirteen game changers who have changed the course of and remoulded history. Women featured are: Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz (Mexico), Caroline Herschel (Germany), Kate Sheppard (New Zealand), Marie Curie (Poland), Viola Desmond (Canada), Mary Verghese (India), Aisha Rateb (Egypt), Wangari Maathai (Kenya), Joanne Rowling (UK), Sisleide Lima do Amor (Brazil), Leymah Gbowee (Liberia), Yuan Yuan Tan (China), and Malala Yousafzai (Pakistan). Inspirational messages to children top and tail these mini bios. Great to see a disabled hero in the mix (Mary Verghese)! Bright bold artwork accompanies a positive, upbeat, energetic text. Age 7-11, Hardback American Import 31pp

More Info She Persisted Around the World 13 Women Who Changed History

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Shu Lin's Grandpa

by Matt Goodfellow
illustrated by Yu Rong

Ref: 16560

New girl Shun Lin has just started at Dylan's school. She only speaks a little English, She wears shiny yellow wellies. She stands on the edge of the playground at breaktime and sits on her own at lunchtime with an array of tiny pots of bright food. And then one day, Shu Lin's Grandpa comes in to show the class his huge watercolour painting- complete with snarling dragon. And soon, Shu Lin is showing her classmates how to execute the best paintbrush strokes for the perfect dragon scales... A lovely story which hangs either side of an awe-inspiring centre double-gatefold spread of Grandpa's artwork. Written by a former primary school teacher, now poet and illustrated by a Chinese-UK artist. Age 4-7, Hardback 22pp

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Silver Buttons

Ref: 14423

We are, quite unashamedly, huge fans of Graham. There is always splendid detail in his illustrations which capture diverse communities of people. And, again, always, he presents small, seemingly insignificant, actions or events which nevertheless have a vast, universal and unifying effect across space and time. Here, as Jodie goes to draw a silver button on her duck picture, her baby brother-Jonathan- takes his first step, just as a child avoids the cracks in the pavement outside, just as a baby is born in a hospital and a tanker heads out to China and...Jonathan stumbles forward back on to his little pink knees. Joyful, life affirming, full of humanity- and endorsed by Amnesty International UK. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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Sneaky Beak

by Tracey Corderoy
illustrated by Tony Neal

Ref: 16024

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2020 "Trouble sleeping? You need the Snores-Galore Mega Bed right away! Is your bath bubbly enough? Our Super-Whirl Turbo Tub has it ALL!" Bear and Hamster are more than happy with the rhythms of their daily life. Until salesperson and expert marketeer, Sneaky Beak pipes up to suggest they could have things even better... A clever story about materialism and consumerism. On being shortlisted for the Little Rebels Award 2020, Tracey Corderoy said, "This book makes you think about what's really important in life." Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp

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Sofia Valdez, Future Prez

by Andrea Beaty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 16017

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2020 "A dreamer. A doer. A real-life go-getter. Most people like good, but Sofia likes better". The Beaty/Roberts team find themselves on the Little Rebels Shortlist for the 3rd time! (see also Rosie Revere and Ada Twist). From her very first toddler years, Sofia has wanted to help people- from shopping for neighbours to walking their pets. And, her political-badges-toting Abuelo is always by her side, keeping a watchful eye. But when Abuelo trips and hurts himself on a pile of rubbish (Mount Trashmore) , Sofia decides to aim her acts of kindness a little higher... a project that takes her to City Hall and beyond... On being shortlisted for the Little Rebels Award 2020, Beaty said of her young activist, "Sofia understands that kindness is the beginning of all bravery." Age 4-7, Hardback 36pp

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Song of the Mekong River

by Na-Mi Choi; retold by Jo Cowley
illustratred by Sinae Jo

Ref: 16683

An accessible synchronicity of fiction and non-fiction introduces readers to Vietnam, the Mekong River (a.k.a. 'the lifeline of Vietnam'), little Tiu and her water village. While Tiu's father is away fishing in the ocean and her mum operates the supermarket boat at the water market, Tiu and her grandmother go on Ms Trang's boat to fetch bright flowers for the family home altars. A gentle story with bright watercolours, accompanied by explanatory footnotes within the text and wonderful back notes on the landscape and culture of Vietnam. Ideal for schools; primed for an array of extension activities! 'Absolutely fascinating. I love it. Brilliant mix of photos and illustrations' (June, Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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Space Song Rocket Ride

by Sunny Scribes
illustrated by David Sim

Ref: 13833

A group of children (multicultural) blast off into space in a multicoloured rocket , discovering the solar system, shooting stars and meteors along the way. A celebration of space travel with a cumulative text and a jolly chorus for children to join in on. Comes with a watch and sing along CD and plenty of fascinating backnotes on astronauts and space explorations. Age 3-6 Paperback + Video CD 27pp

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Splash Day!

Ref: 15646

A full-up paddling pool shimmers in the playground and buckets of water stand poised around the bushes- what's up? It's Splash Day! Time for a water fight! A delighted group of children -and teachers- don their best swim suits, shower caps and goggles and then arm themselves with water pistols for a glorious day of drenching. With just one sentence per page and Sharratt's trademark, bright and bold illustrations, this is a perfect beginner reader. 'Loved this. Children will love it too. Inclusive, joyous fun. Let's hope lots of children read this and more schools have a Splash Day' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Multicultural and includes a very independent and super-active wheelchair user. Inspired by an actual Splash Day which takes place every year in a school in Brighton. Age 5-8, Paperback 65pp

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Stella Brings the Family

by Miriam B. Schiffer
illustrated by Holly Clifton-Brown

Ref: 13850

Stella's class is having a special Mother's Day celebration. All of the pupils has at least one mum- Howie even has two! But Stella has two Dads. A spot or two of anxiety later, Stella decides to invite not only her two dads but her nonna and uncle and aunt and cousin too! A very joyful, very lively and rather overcrowded class party follows, leaving the teacher a little frazzled. Don't worry, Stella reassures her, when it's father's day, she'll just bring the 2 guests! Which leaves Howie with a problem all of his own... A delightfully illustrated, upbeat, story which celebrates the diversity of family life. Bright fresh illustrations depict a multicultural classroom with a bunch of very happy children. 'Loved this book. Hope it's an indication of more to come' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, LL reviewer). 'A great story of families and special days' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Officer, LL reviewer). Age 5-8

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The Suitcase

Ref: 16159

A tired, strange-looking creature arrives with his suitcase. The other creatures question his origins and his motives. But their investigations challenge their assumptions and prompt them to meaningful acts of kindness. Simple text and the barest of illustrations manage to evoke great waves of loss, compassion and, finally optimism in this story about showing care and heart to strangers. 'I actually completely and utterly loved this. The message is about empathy, overcoming suspicions and kindness' (Patrice, Children's Author, LL reviewer). 'A beautiful story with a timely but simple aim. This book makes me smile' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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The Journey Home

Ref: 14978

Winner Sendak Fellowship By the UK's first ever recipient of the Sendak Fellowship. A mournful looking polar bear looks out onto his seascape and wonders where all of his ice has gone. He decides to embark on an ice hunt, setting off in a tiny boat. En route, he picks up other animals whose natural habitats are under threat: a panda, an orang-utan and an elephant...until, finally, they land on an island inhabited by a Dodo. A wonderfully illustrated story about the destruction to our environment, forced migrations and hope for a much kinder future. 'A book to prick our collective conscience' (Eileen, Former Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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Sunflower Sisters

by Monika Singh Gangotra
illustrated by Michaela Dias-Hayes

Ref: 16765

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2022 Amrita's sister, Jas, is getting married and the whole family are in full-prep mode. There are outdoor fairy lights to string up and special lehengas to be picked out. But why does Aunty keep murmuring about Amrita's and Jas' dark complexions... recommending they drink saffron and stay out of the sun? Amrita wants to stand tall and beam bright like a sunflower. Best friend, Kiki, wants to dazzle in vibrant colours as well! Will their radiance overcome their elders' prejudices? Age 4-8, Paperback 27pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

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Super Duper You

Ref: 16143

"Sometimes you are all twinkly, with frills and jewels and bows...And sometimes you are clanky, all fighty, bold and brave". A child wonders at all of the characteristics that make up their younger sibling- with real affection. From wearing their pants outside their shorts to being just a bit...polka-dotty?... the protagonist declares, "Be bold, be proud, be brilliant...a super duper you!" A rhyming, endlessly affirming celebration of individuality (and one delightfully free of any gender pronouns). 'This is a real celebration of difference, of being your authentic self and being able to be anything and everything you want to be' (Mark, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). 'There's no one way to be in this exploration of childhood- just many different traits that come together to make everyone their own version of super' (Scottish Book Trust). Age 2-5, Paperback 29pp

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Superhero Hotel

by Abie Longstaff
illustrated by Migy Blanco

Ref: 15067

Captain Power needs his batteries recharging; Gadget Girl needs her Mega Grabber tool cleaning up; Ice Woman needs a frozen splinter removing; The Flame needs her Blaze Boots re-heeling and Mr Invisible...well, he just wants a little rest, incognito. Luckily, Joe Malone is on hand with his Superhero Hotel, designed to cater to everyone's needs. But with so many superpowers around and with so much time on their hands, things won't stay calm for long... High octane fun with a refreshing gender mix of superheroes, including the Afro-sporting, icebolt-firing, Ice Woman. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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Talking Is Not My Thing

Ref: 16464

Brought to you by the creator of Me and My Sister (also on this website). Two siblings introduce us to their daily ups and downs- this time from the main perspective of the sister, who is also autistic. She doesn't chat much and she sometimes wishes she could switch her ears off from all that noise. But she also is a deft hand at using flashcards, happy bunny dancing and at the drawing-guessing games. Meantime, her brother is very good at guessing and at... finding lost bunnies. Great portrayal of a non-verbal neurodiverse character. 'Really nicely done. Shows equality between the siblings and I love the relationship and communication. Well balanced and doesn't engender pity. Just shows a different way of being' (Beth, Inclusive Minds Founder & Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-7, Hardback 29pp

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That's NOT How You Do It!

Ref: 14524

Lucy is pretty sure she knows it all. After all, everyone else comes to her for help. Lucy knows how to fold perfect stars, how to eat with a knife and fork... she's got it covered! Bu then Toshi arrives from "far away" with his chopsticks and his weird music and his yoga poses and his strange origami skills.Lucy is fit to burst with frustration- but then, a simple act of kindness opens her eyes and widens her horizons. An easy, simple tale about respect and 'difference'. 'What a lovely book- simply told but with such a powerful message and learning statement' (Elaine, Ed. Psychologist, Letterbox reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 27pp

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Tilly's At Home Holiday

Ref: 15270

It is extremely rare to find children's books which represent families who aren't well off or which nod to socio-economic status at all. It is perfectly implied in this story as it presents a situation which a great many families will relate to. Tilly's school friends are all excited about the holidays they're taking with their families both at home and abroad, but her own (single parent) mum doesn't seem to have any such plans lined up...the suitcase is simply gathering dust, just as it always does... But then, Tilly's At Home Holiday begins and it is an absolute whirl of treats and adventures including breakfast in bed, fighting dragons (in the library), taking cover from ferocious beasties (in the local park), genie's lamps (at the market) and camping with blankies and hot cocoa (indoors). A lovely celebration of family, time spent together and, indeed, what a local neighbourhood can offer in the way of free entertainment! (Casual images of disabled characters included). Age 3-6, Paperback 29pp

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Timid

Ref: 17207

Timmy is a genius performer. Their costumes sparkle, their singing is pitch perfect; they are totally stage-ready. Except...they're not... quite yet. Stalked by a shy inner lion, Timmy thinks they'll never get to tread the boards. But then, classmate Nia rocks up with her Fashion. Together, they learn strategies to still their wobbles and, together, they stage a show which roars and dazzles. A fantastic story about overcoming shyness, this is also hugely refreshing for starring a child free of gendered pronouns. Woodgate's illustrations are so rich, flourishing with swishes and shimmers. There are also plenty of Woodgate's trademark, charming, illustrative nods, such as the iconic Pride colours on Nia's school bag badges and in the bunting which travels and flutters through the spreads. From the 2023 British Book Awards winner of the Children's Illustrated Book of the Year (for Grandad's Camper, available here). Non-binary UK author. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp

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Today I'm Strong

by Nadiya Hussain
illustrated by Ella Bailey

Ref: 16785

[Yes, it's that Nadiya Hussian- the Great British Bake Off star]. "Today I found my voice. You showed me it was hiding inside of me all the time". A perfectly child-centred picture book which goes beyond the usual anti-bullying books we see in its subtle approach. Told in a first person narrative, this child loves some of her days at school but finds others harder. Another child stares at her, laughs at her and blocks her way. The protagonist knows this is wrong but needs to find her voice…and then she does exactly that and entirely through her own reflection, resolve and self-determination. Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp

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To Market! To Market!

by Anushka Ravishankar
illustrated by Emanuele Scanziani

Ref: 12825

Sunday Times UK Children's Book of the Week "Tutti tutti tutti I'm a fruity kind of dish. Thumping Thumping Thumping I'm a jumping kind of fish". An exuberant tribute to the vibrancy of an Indian market by an author described as a pioneer of the nonsense rhyme genre. Word repetition, rhythm and rhyme- along with some of the finest illustrations around. A feast for the eyes and ears! Perfect for holding up. Age 4-8, Indian Import Paperback 22pp

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Tomorrow

Ref: 15463

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2019 Yazan is a small child bewildered by the changes around him- his mother has stopped painting, the news blasts out of the TV set constantly, school has mysteriously ended and the days, mostly spent indoors, are becoming yawningly monotonous. But then, one day, without permission, Yazan leaves the house- only to be confronted by a dramatically unfamiliar landscape... A stark, sparse text captures a child's unique perspective on a country at war. "A beautiful picture-book full of heart, and not without hope, set against the backdrop of the Syrian war" (Catherine Barter, reviewing for the Little Rebels Award website). Age 4-8, Hardback 25pp

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Tom's Sunflower

by Hilary Robinson
illustrated by Mandy Stanley

Ref: 14828

The children are busy turning the class into a bright sparkly theatre, inspired by Amber and Skye's travelling theatre lifestyle, since it's their turn for 'Show and Tell'. All the children muck in- except for quiet, tearful Hana, who has recently found out that her parents are splitting up. But Mr Davis is on hand with a comforting story which he shares with the class about another child whose parents separated, who came gradually to see that it wasn't his fault...a child who grew up strong and resilient and then grew all the way up to be...Mr Davis himself! Another spot-on, sensitive, gently humorous book for children from the Copper Tree series; makes you glow from the inside. Nice representation of Traveller children (Amber and Skye) and stars Barnie again (who wears a hearing aid). Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp

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Troll Stinks

by Jeanne Willis
illustrated by Tony Ross

Ref: 15656

Little Billy's parents say he is too old to have a mobile phone, but he finds the farmer's one and runs off with it! Before long, him and Cyril are taking selfies and making anonymous call. And then, Little Billy gets his best idea of all: '"I bet Troll's got an ugly mug - let's take a photograph! We'll post it on the Internet: The Foulest Face You'll See!" A very modern take on the Three Billy Goats Gruff with an eminently child-friendly, cautionary message about bullying through new technologies. 'Good book about cyber bullying, great pictures, good message for kids' (Isak, aged 8, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 23pp

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12 Days of Christmas or Grandma is Overly Generous

Ref: 16519

Eloise's Grandma's Christmas gifting starts, simply enough, with a partridge in a pear tree, carefully wrapped- and with a fancy postage mark from the Garden of England. But as the gifts amass to ten racing rhinos from the Okavango grasslands (not to mention the eleven parping penguins), Eloise is surrounded by utter chaos. Will it ever end? Smith's ever-brilliant illustrations are inspired here by Edwardian fashions as a tribute to the period in which the carol originated. Threading these together are wonderfully detailed postmarks and a cumulative text. All shot through with the spirit of the most generous of Grandmas. 'What a wonderful book. Fun to check the postmarks to see if we could guess what was coming next...So nice to see a written letter of thanks' (Rosalind, Nursery Operations Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer) Age 5-8, Hardback 53pp

More Info 12 Days of Christmas or Grandma is Overly Generous

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The Twitches Meet A Puppy

by Hayley Scott
illustrated by Pippa Curnick

Ref: 15613

Do not be distracted by the rather saccharine book cover! Behind the purple hue, the bunnies and the flowers is a fun and highly inclusive story (with not a whiff of self-consciousness about it). Part of a series, Teacup House, this third book works fine as a stand alone. Stevie and her mum have moved from an urban tower block to a countryside cottage, a transition made easier for Susie by Nanny Blue's gift of a doll's house in which four toy bunnies, the Twitch family, live...except these bunnies are alive! Stevie soon settles in to her new home, pairing up into a lovely adventure-seeking, roller-skating, duo with Eshe (who is mixed race). The series of full colour illustrated chapter books nicely interweaves the children's and the bunnies' mishaps and calamities. In this particular book, Stevie's mum has gone away on a photography commission and her dad moves in to look after her, along with his husband, Stuart, who turns up with an overly bouncy puppy in tow... leading to plenty of mayhem at the cottage. Stuart also happens to have a prosthetic leg, a detail revealed in the illustrations but not referred to in the text. 'The slightly twee cover hides a really well told story. An inclusive approach to content, related in an understated way' (Eileen, Former Primary teacher, LL reviewer). Age 6-9 Paperback 119pp

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Two Giants

Ref: 14482

First published in 1967 by a (now) big name author, back as a brand new edition- and it hasn't dated at all! Two giants live in an idyllic world with a beautiful landscape and beautiful climate. And then one day, they both spot a pink shell- and both want to own it. An argument becomes a fight becomes rock-throwing...with consequences for their once perfect world. A seemingly uncomplicated tale which can be used to explore lots of very big themes connected with transitions and change: friendships broken and reformed, peace & conflict and even, very simply, the changing weather and seasons. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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Uncle Bobby's Wedding

by Sarah S. Brannen
illustrated by Lucia Soto

Ref: 16882

Bobby is Chloe's favourite uncle. He knows the names of all the stars and he's taken her right to the top of a lighthouse. But, at their first family picnic that summer, Bobby has an announcement to make: he and Jamie are getting married. Married! Moving in together! How can Chloe be sure her and Uncle Bobby can still have fun together? Can Jamie bring anything to the table? A delightful little story about a child learning to adjust to change which also centres a same-sex wedding. Lovely end pages dotted with rainbow flags, glitter balls and wedding iconography. For those of us who can remember the original (now out of print) 2008 Uncle Bobby's Wedding starring a cast of..guinea pigs...and for those of us who feel a little tired of quite how often picture books resort to anthropomorphism when portraying same-sex couples, this 2021 version is a very welcome update! Author Brennen has tweaked her original text and Soto's cartoon-esque illustrations have brought in a vibrant and an entirely human cast. (Bobby is White and Jamie is a person of colour; the protagonist is also mixed race). Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp

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The Undefeated

by Kwame Alexander
illustrated by Kadir Nelson

Ref: 15989

Winner Caldecott Medal 2020 It is a hard task to add anything more to the very many glowing reviews of The Undefeated which have appeared online and in print. This really is a magical pairing- matching up the multi-award-winning illustrator, Kadir Nelson, whose rich, heady, paintings are exhibited in major institutions and collections with the similarly, award-winning, Kwame Alexander: novelist, educator and a poet who manipulates words into explosions of energy. As Kwame says, this extended poem is a hymn to 'the dreamers and doers', inspired by the inauguration of Barack Obama and his wish to show his young daughter how they had reached that moment in North American history. Sparse and exacting words and sweepingly 'generous' illustrations which feel barely contained by the pages leap across famous figures and events from N. American Black History, culminating in an ode and a triumphant legacy: "This is for the undefeated. This is for you. And you. And you. This is for us". Age 7+, Paperback 36pp

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Up and Down Mum

Ref: 16328

A child introduces her 'Up and Down Mum', both on top of the world and, sometimes, crushed by it; a fabulous, spaghetti-making Mum one day, a stay-in-bed Mum the next day; sometimes she is a brilliant, roaring make believe dragon and also, sometimes, she needs to go away somewhere quiet...on those days, Grandad comes to stay. A very clever, authentic book which spills over with the unconditional love of a child for her parent- and vice versa! Developed in consultation with families who have a parent with bipolar disorder and created in collaboration with The Wellcome Trust. Great backnotes on BPD. 'Strong on the positive relationship between child and parent. Includes themes of seeking help, managing a long term condition, changes in care/family arrangements which would be useful to a range of children/families' (Anna, Social Worker/Therapist/Disability Advisor/living with bipolar, reviewing for Letterbox Library). 'I think this book is great. We have a child at school who I know has expressed some of these feelings about her own mother who has BPD & this is the sort of book that would really support her, especially as it's 'real' about some of the aspects that the child finds difficult' (Edyta, Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library Reviewer). Age 4-7 Paperback 30pp

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The Very Last Castle

by Travis Jonker
illustrated by Mark Pett

Ref: 15480

In praise of brining down walls and creating communities. A small town. Just like any other small town. Except, in the middle of it stands a castle. The very, very, very last castle. No one ever comes out. No one is allowed in. Who lives there? "Monsters", says Miss Wicks. "Giants", declares Alex. "Snakes", confirms grandpa. But Ibb is not so sure. Packing up her courage and her curiosity, she ventures across the drawbridge... Part mystery, part comedy and starring a mixed race lead. 'I really liked this book and the themes it addresses, i.e. overcoming fears, encouraging others to question their pre-judgements, welcoming new people' (Hannah, Social Worker, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, American Import Hardback 38pp

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Welcome

Ref: 15263

A band of polar bear are happily playing about on the ice until- yikes! crack! -three bears float off on iceberg. As their tiny floating ice boat shrinks, they become more and more desperate for a safe place to land but with each passing island, they are rejected: the cows declare them too furry, the pandas say there are too many of them, the giraffes prefer to turn away... will they ever find sanctuary? A perfect book for introducing two topical themes to the very young: asylum and global warming. 'So important to have as much a range as possible of books that explore themes of displacement, exclusion, hospitality and social responsibility...a great conversation starter' (Farrah, Learning Programme Leader at Centre for Literacy in Primary Education, LL reviewer). 'A gentle and beautiful look at an important and topical theme' (Elena, Community Librarian, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp

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We're Going to Find the Monster!

by Malorie Blackman
illustrated by Dapo Adeola

Ref: 16459

What a team! Former children's laureate and all-round-children's-literature superstar, Malorie Blackman, paired with recently appointed (Sep 2021) Booktrust artist-in-residence, Dapo Adeola. Armed with pilot goggles, saucepan helmet and a wooden spoon, Charlie and Eddie set off, boldly and brazenly, to unearth the monster from its lair. There are mountains to climb, oceans to traverse and nail biting encounters with foamy fiends, tummy-rumbling wolves and fierce tigers. A perfectly domestic, family adventure culminating in a breakfast of yummies and a mass tickle-pile-on! (Protagonist has vitiligo). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

More Info We're Going to Find the Monster!

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We Shall Overcome

by Debbie Levy
by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

Ref: 14330

From the song's roots in America's era of slavery through the civil rights movement of the 1960s to today, "We Shall Overcome" has come to represent the fight for equality and freedom around the world. This important book, lyrically written by Debbie Levy and paired with elegant, collage-style art by Vanessa Brantley-Newton, pays tribute to the heroic spirit of the famous song that encompasses American history. Age 7-11, Hardback 29pp

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What a Wonderful World + Music CD

based on the song by B. Thiele & G. D. Weiss, as sung by Louis Armstrong
illustrated by Tim Hopgood

Ref: 15073

Based on the lyrics of the song made world-famous by Louis Armstrong. A child basks in the delights of the natural world and wonders at the magic of humanity. The illustrator was inspired to do this book by a memory of learning the song while he was at school. Comes with a CD with the song performed by Armstrong himself. 'What a joyful and beautifully illustrated book' (Carey, Childminder, Letterbox Library reviewer.) Age 2-7, Paperback + CD 28pp

More Info What a Wonderful World + Music CD

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What Happened to You?

by James Catchpole
illustrated by Karen George

Ref: 16734

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2022 Joe is very busy with his game of pirates and sharks. But, he is rudely interrupted by a child shouting, "You've only got one leg!" She is soon joined by other children who all pester him with questions about his 'missing' limb. Some questions are quite silly: "Did it fall off in the toilet?" Joe doesn't feel he should have to answer any of them! Will he be allowed to just go back to his sharks? Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

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What is a Refugee?

Ref: 16686

"A refugee is a person, just like you and me. ..Most refugees would have preferred to stay in their country with their friends and family but it was too dangerous". An incredibly clear-as-daylight explanation of who refugees are and why they're forced to flee. Enhanced by quotes from 6 refugee children at the back (including children from Somalia, Syria and Afghanistan) and mini bios of seven famous refugees (includes Malala Yousafzai, Freddie Mercury and Bob Marley whose families all came to England). Perfection! 'Does a decent job of breaking down the legal definition for young readers' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-8, Paperback 30pp

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When a Dragon Comes to Stay

by Caryl Hart
illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw

Ref: 16553

When a dragon comes to stay, does she smatch the toys? Or burp on her fairy cakes? Or pout at bedtime? Well, no. Even if she finds them a little tricky, she tries her bestest to show her bestest manners. A 'good manners for little dragons' book which is a huge step away form being 'preachy' and a huge step towards being upbeat and positive. 'Good story about positive behaviours, expectations of team work. Explains how we have choices in how we behave' (Ann Marie, Early Years Safeguarding Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

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When Grandpa Gives You a Tool Box

by Jamie L. B. Deenihan
illusrated by Lorriane Rocha

Ref: 16814

What should you do if, on your birthday, you asked for a special house for your dolls...and Grandpa gives you a toolbox?! It's quite a dilemma. But this narrative goes on to suggest a solution, starting with listening to Grandpa's toolbox stories (however long they are), teaming up together on some local neighbourhood repairs (toolbox in hand) until finally... you get to the most purposeful toolbox task of all: building your own special dollhouse! (With grandpa of course). A gorgeous story starring a kind thoughtful boy who is prepared to compromise (so long as he ends up with what he wants!) 'A lovely message of intergenerational co-operation, learning and love' (Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 24pp

More Info When Grandpa Gives You a Tool Box

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When We Say Black Lives Matter

Ref: 17123

"Darling, when we sing that Black Lives Matter, and we're dancing through the streets, we're saying: fear will not destroy our joy, defiance in our feet". From whispering the past to bellowing in the streets to laughing -on the inside- with ancestors, a wonderfully lyrical unthreading and expansion of the phrase, 'Black Lives Matter'. Accompanied by swirling illustrations which move across and beyond the pages. 'A nice way to unpick a slogan that has been key to amplifying a movement...I like the way it dances between the past and the present to relay the historical significance' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, Letterbox Library Reviewer).'I absolutely loved it... I love the lyricism of it and feel it's a book that is honest without traumatising Black children' (Patrice, Children's/YA author, LL reviewer). Age 4-8, Paperback 31pp

More Info When We Say Black Lives Matter

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Where Are You, Sun Bear?

by Eun-mi Choi; retold by Joy Cowley
illustrated by Seong-bin Noh

Ref: 13942

An intrepid child sets out to find the sun bear within a forest landscape threatened by the destruction wreaked by human beings. A unique story set amongst the Iban tribe in 'Asia's Amazon', a dense forest in Malaysia. Interweaves an important environmental tale with indigenous storytelling and mythology incorporating forest fairies and a display of Amazonian wildlife (hornbills, tapirs, etc.) Truly excellent backnotes on Malaysia and the wider environmental context. A perfect schools resource. 'Worth buying for the amazing illustrations alone' (Maggie, EY Advisory Teacher, Letterbox reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

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Where Did You Go Today?

Ref: 16116

A day in the park (with a male carer) becomes a seamless journey in to other worlds- the slide swooshes a child down a snowy mountain slope; a roundabout swirls her a distant island; a zip wire speeds her into a jungle. A perfect tribute to imaginative play. 'It will encourage vocabulary and imagination and inventiveness. A simple book which lends itself to sharing ideas and activities. My granddaughter loved it- she flew over the trees many, many times!' ((Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, LL reviewer) (Suggested single parent/separated parents family- day out at park is with a male carer who brings the child back to a female adult; 'casual', secondary character, disability images including hearing aid + wheelchair users). Age 2-5, Paperback 30pp

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Where the Winds Meet

by Mi-hwa Joo; retold by Joy Cowley
illustrated by Oh Lee

Ref: 13949

Set amidst the grasslands and deserts of Mongolia, this lilting narrative is told from the perspective of the great sweeping Mongolian wind! A simple text but with footnotes and backnotes which give the book many more layers and a more complex understanding of Mongolian life and culture. Bridges storytelling and non-fiction. 'I love everything about this book. The use of viewpoint, the figurative language and the illustrations are a powerful combination. The teaching possibilities are endless' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, Letterbox reviewer). Age 5-9, Paperback 30pp

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Wild Swans

retold by Xanthe Gresham Knight
illustrated by Charlotte Gastaut

Ref: 17047

An exciting retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's classic tale. All of the traditional elements are there but the tone is modern and the tropes have been deftly reworked. A small, richly illustrated, chapter book ideal for emerging confident readers. 'This is a littlie jewel of a book. Beautifully illustrated and imaginatively told. There is a lovely modern touch at the ending. Here, the heroine doesn't feel the need of a male to support her- she is enough by herself' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Lots of positive images and role models; not just tokenistic' (Jayne, Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'An adaptation triumph' (Kirkus review). Age 7-10, Paperback 43pp

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Will You Be My Friend?

by Molly Potter
illustrated by Sarah Jennings

Ref: 16203

An information book headed up with titles such as 'What is a friend?', 'Nice things you could say to a friend', 'What makes a good friend?' Simple text, speech bubbles, a guide for adults and... a Friendship Quiz! Packed with ideas for buddy-making skills and then nurturing new friendships. Encourages active listening, empathy, negotiating, sharing, saying sorry. With bright and inclusive illustrations throughout (including representations of wheelchair and hearing aid users). 'Positive message, good way to explain pros and cons of being friends to younger ages. Lovely vibrant illustrations- multicultural and inclusive' (Nicole, Teen LL reviewer). 'Cheerful illustrations with many, many examples of friendship and how to value and develop them' (Maggie, EY Advisory Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 29pp

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Wonderful Words

Ref: 15832

A positive encyclopaedia of words! Meet, Mum, Dad, Maya, Sam, Grandpa, Zanzibar the cat and Crunchy the crocodile. A busy (mixed race white/Asian) extended family introduce readers to their home and wider environment, incorporating key vocabulary as well as more elaborate language. Words for foods, shops, common household objects, occupations, feelings and even...fairytale characters. Multicultural and with plenty of 'casual' disability images in scenes showing the wider environment. 'Wow. So much to look at. Had fun looking for the crocodile in every picture. Inclusive, fun, extending' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'I like the fantastic pictures. I also like a lot of the words' (Vuso, aged 8, young Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 45pp

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Year of the Jungle: Memories of the Home Front

by Suzanne Collins
illustrated by James Proimos

Ref: 13336

"My dad has to go to something called a war. He will be gone a year. How long is a year?" The author of The Hunger Games turns her hand to a deeply moving story from a child's perspective as her father goes to war. Child-friendly illustrations bring a delicate lightness of touch. 'Deceptively simple text conveys much unsaid but deeply felt' (Eileen, Former Teacher, LL reviewer). 'Brilliant in so many ways' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 38pp

More Info Year of the Jungle: Memories of the Home Front

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Yokki and the Parno Gry

by Richard O’Neill & Katharine Quarmby
illustrated by Marieke Nelissen

Ref: 16300

A lovely story embracing a Traveller family's life, the rhythms of their work, fairs and journeys, all in harmony with the passing seasons. When times are lean, the young Yokki is there to bring cheer to his community through fireside stories of the mythical, gleaming white, horse, the Parno Gry. Some welcome insight into one Traveller community's life, told by a Romani storyteller (O'Neill), wrapped up in a wonderful folk story- a scattering of authentic dialect (see inside page for glossary) just completes it. 'A story told with warmth with beautiful illustrations...subtle themes of the challenges Romani people face and how technology affects their way of life' (Darren,Teacher & Higher Ed. Tutor, LL reviewer). 'Really liked the descriptions of family life and also the discussion of challenges of lack of employment, finding suitable land etc.' (Hannah, Social Worker, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp

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You Can!

by Alexandra Strick
illustrated by Steve Antony

Ref: 16530

The ultimate child positivity book. Confidence building doesn't come with more weather-proof book bricks than this! Follow 14 children from different backgrounds, growing in to their very different identities as they stride forwards from babies to young children, then teens, then adults. Every double page spread is a booster: "You can...follow the crowd or...lead the way. Dream BIG"; "You can... do something big by doing something small". The book's conception is thoroughly unique. Several years were spent consulting with children and young people and asking them directly what they would tell their younger selves in order to equip them for and fire them up about their future lives. Inclusive to the core, the book portrays a wide range of ethnicities, disabilities (including a child with restricted growth and a child with a cleft lip) and identities (including gender identities). 'Loved this book's size, shape and most of all its illustrations which I feel speak for themselves. Great message' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Hardback 40pp

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You Need to Chill!

by Juno Dawson
illustrated by Laura Hughes

Ref: 17181

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2023 Bill's sister is tired. Tired of all of the silly questions her classmates are asking about her sibling: "Is he lost in the park?" "Was he eaten by a shark?" "Was he taken to Mars by aliens?" Frustrated by their hysteria, she keeps replying, "Hun, you need to chill". Until, finally, she gives them the answer they've been waiting for. Her sibling has transitioned but she is still just as clever, funny, cool and brill. The final double spread of the protagonist and her classmates holding peace-loving and kindness banners is a delight. As the cover states, this is 'A Story About Love'. "I love the message. I foresee lots of fun to be had with everyone repeating the title very loudly!" (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). "Wow, I loved this! Love the illustrations. So much to see/to spot/to discuss. Fun throughout. So supportive for all without preaching" (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Includes a lovely incidental portrayal of a child with a prosthetic limb. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

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Key Stage 1 (5-7yrs)

#Goldilocks: A Hashtag Cautionary Tale

15 Things Not to Do With a Baby

15 Things Not to Do With a Granny

Aalfred and Aalbert

A Bear Hug at Bedtime

Ada Twist, Scientist

Abdul's Lazy Sons

A Farmer's Life + QR Code

A Great Big Cuddle

Alfie

All Are Welcome

All Sorts to Make a World

Always and Forever

Amazing

The Ammuchi Puchi

Anansi and the Sheep

Anna Hibiscus

And Tango Makes Three

The Animal Boogie + Music CD

Anna Hibiscus' Song

The Ant and the Big Bad Bully Goat

Astro Girl

Azzi In Between

Baby Goes to Market

Baking With Dad

Ballerina Dreams: A True Story

Barefoot Books Children of the World

Bathe the Cat

Bea by the Sea

A Beginner's Guide to Bearspotting

Best Friends, Busy Friends

The Biggest Story

Billy and the Dragon

Black Dog

The Blue Bird's Palace

Bodies Are Cool

The Boys

The Boy Who Lost His Bumble

The Boy Who Loved Everyone

The Bread Pet: a sourdough story

Brodie

Calvin

Charlie and Mouse

Celebrate Chinese New Year

Clean Up!

The Climbers

The Cloud

Coming to England

The Colour Thief

Covered in Adventures

Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets: A Muslim Book of Shapes

The Crow's Tale

Dad's Favourite Cookie

Dare

Dave and the Tooth Fairy

A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo

The Day War Came

Dealing with Feeling...Angry

Dealing with Feeling...Happy

Dealing with Feeling...Proud

Dealing with Feeling...Sad

Dealing with Feeling...Shy

Dealing with Feeling...Worried

Desmond and the Very Mean Word

Dinosaur Rap

Dogs Don't Do Ballet

Do Not Bring Your Dragon to the Library

Do Not Take Your Dragon to the Last Day of School

Each Kindness

Equal To Everything: Judge Brenda and the Supreme Court

Errol's Garden

Everybody Feels Happy!

Everybody Has a Body

Excuses, Excuses

Families & their Faiths: Buddhism in Thailand

Families & Their Faiths: Hinduism in Bali

Families & Their Faiths: Islam in Turkey

Families & their Faiths: Sikhism in India

The Family Book