Little Rebels Shortlist 2023

Ref: LRSL18

The Little Rebels Award recognises children's fiction (for readers aged 0-12) which promotes social justice or social equality, challenges stereotypes or is informed by anti-discriminatory concerns. Ages Birth-12. 7 books Ajay and the Mumbai Sun Fight Back I Am Nefertiti Mayor Bunny's Chocolate Town Needle The Secret of Haven Point You Need to Chill! ***Includes printed reading guides, poster, stickers and bookmarks*** Price includes approx. 15% discount FULL RETAIL PRICE £54.93 (SAVING £7.93) Members Price £47.00 ***Reading resources for the latest shortlist and full details of the Little Rebels Award can be found at littlerebels.org***

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Little Rebels Pack (Primary Key Stages 1)

Ref: 17083

Inspired by our involvement with the Little Rebels Children's Book Award which celebrates children's books that "promote social justice and a more peaceful and fairer world". Like the award, this bookpack lifts an appreciation of children's literature out of the next best seller or sparkly series. Instead it takes quiet and patient stock of the books which nudge and provoke, which gently encourage children to notice the world around them, to ask questions and, where necessary, to challenge the status quo. Ages 5-7. 8 Books Members Price £55.00 **Suitable substitutions will be made if any title becomes unavailable**

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Little Rebels Pack (Primary Key Stages 2)

Ref: 17084

Inspired by our involvement with the Little Rebels Children's Book Award which celebrates children's books that "promote social justice and a more peaceful and fairer world". Like the award, this bookpack lifts an appreciation of children's literature out of the next best seller or sparkly series. Instead it takes quiet and patient stock of the books which nudge and provoke, which gently encourage children to notice the world around them, to ask questions and, where necessary, to challenge the status quo. Ages 7-11. 9 Books Members Price £58.00 **Suitable substitutions will be made if any title becomes unavailable**

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Little Rebels Pack (Primary Key Stages 1 & 2)

Ref: 17085

Inspired by our involvement with the Little Rebels Children's Book Award which celebrates children's books that "promote social justice and a more peaceful and fairer world". Like the award, this bookpack lifts an appreciation of children's literature out of the next best seller or sparkly series. Instead it takes quiet and patient stock of the books which nudge and provoke, which gently encourage children to notice the world around them, to ask questions and, where necessary, to challenge the status quo. Ages 5-11. 17 Books Members Price £113.00 **Suitable substitutions will be made if any title becomes unavailable**

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928 Miles From Home

Ref: 15312

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2018 A deft urban thriller set on a Nottingham estate and starring Callum, an aspiring scriptwriter from a single parent (Dad) family, who doubts that a boy from his background ever gets a break. When a series of local thefts occur at the same time that Callum's Dad 'moves in' his Polish girlfriend and her son, Callum turns investigator.... but his own prejudices soon start to falter and, just as quickly, old kinships are broken and new friendships formed. A gripping and soulful story of self-discovery which packs in plenty of thoughtful content and has more than a touch of Ken Loach's Kes (1969) about it. Beautifully drawn, credible, characters include Sergei, a Polish boy who is wonderfully self-empowered and challenges anti-immigrant prejudice head-on; Amelia, a politically aware Black girl, who lives an 'unconventional' life on a narrow boat; self-hating Linford, a victim of domestic violence and a perpetrator of violence himself ...until he is a witness to injustice writ large. These young voices really ring true. Age 10-15, Paperback 318pp

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Ada Twist, Scientist

by Andrea Beaty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 14657

WINNER Little Rebels Award 2017 "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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After Tomorrow

Ref: 14057

WINNER Little Rebels Award 2014 A dystopian novel set in the UK. The 5 major banks have crashed, money is worthless, law & order are fragile and food is a precious commodity. The options are to go hungry, store food and risk being raided or flee the country. Matt and his family are forced to take that final option and make the dangerous escape to a refugee camp in France. Little Rebels Judge, Wendy Cooling, said: 'This is a frighteningly believable story, a real page-turner with a strong sense of danger always present, and many big issues of a possible future just below the surface. Gillian Cross tells the story brilliantly, never offering the reader a break in the drama, and creating characters to really care about'. On accepting the award, Gillian Cross said, 'we don't write tracts; we don't write propaganda when we write fiction, but we can't help writing things which engage with who we are and how we live in the world'. Age 9-12, Paperback 296pp

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Agent Asha

by Sophie Deen
illustrated by Anjan Sarkar

Ref: 16340

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2021 Super-smart 11-year-old techie coder, Asha Joshi, is recruited by the Children's Spy Agency for a secret mission: to uncover the mighty corporation, Shelly Inc., as it threatens to take sole ownership of the entire Internet. Important topics are tackled along the way including fake news, surveillance, privacy, social media and democracy. All wrapped up in a dizzying, heady adventure with gadgets, drones, bots, farting selfie sticks...and a STEM-savvy Asian girl protagonist. Shortlisted for the Little Rebels Award for Radical Children's Fiction 2021. Age 8-12, Paperback 239pp

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Azzi In Between

Ref: 14053

WINNER Little Rebels Award 2013 A smashing, Amnesty-endorsed, story of a family's escape from war and their journey and subsequent adjustment to a strange new country (which might easily be the UK). Realistic and positive and so very needed in this current climate in which children are hearing so many stories of real life refugees filtered through the media. Told in a super child-friendly, comic-style, format. Based on the author's experiences among refugee families. Little Rebels Judge, Elizabeth Laird, said: 'A simple and powerful story, one with which we should all be tragically familiar, with a text and pictures that are rich, appealing and satisfyingly detailed.' Little Rebels Judge, Wendy Cooling, said: 'The text and illustrations work together brilliantly as they invite children to enjoy the story, and to think about the lives of other children.' Age 7-11, Paperback 36pp

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The Boy at the Top of the Mountain

Ref: 14047

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2016 It's a hat trick for John Boyne- this is his 3rd time on the Little Rebels shortlist, following on from the shortlistings of The Terrible Thing That Happened to Barnaby Brocket in 2013 and Stay Where You Are and Then Leave in 2014. In his latest exploration of the cruelties of war, Boyne introduces a boy called Pierrot, orphaned at a young age, who ends up in Hitler's Austrian house in the mountains, the Berghof. Pierrot starts out as a kind, sensitive child who loathes bullying and shares a magical friendship with a Jewish boy, Anshel (who is also deaf). But then gradually, over the years at Berghof we see Pierrot become Pieter, slowly but surely infected by Nazi ideology, prejudice, and racism- and by the trappings of power. A study of corruption and atonement. Age 11+, Paperback 272pp

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Boy Everywhere

Ref: 16341

WINNER Little Rebels Award 2021 "It's strange how we'd got used to the war in Syria and thought it wouldn't affect us...But then everyone in Syria thought the war wouldn't affect them- until it did." 13-year-old Sami and his family flee their privileged, comfortable life in Damascus for safety in the UK. Challenges preconceptions about refugees and raises awareness of the multiple obstacles faced by those seeking sanctuary, from grasping opportunists to unyielding and inhumane bureaucratic systems. Debut author. Age 9-12, Paperback 283pp

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The Boy Who Loved Everyone

by Jane Porter
illustrated by Maisie Paradise Shearring

Ref: 16030

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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Brand New Boy

by David Almond
illustrated By Marta Altes

Ref: 16342

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2021 "I know that I am George. I know that everyone of us is George. I know that every morning when we awake, we are the new kids, born again". An AI named George joins a school as an experiment in integration, prompting a complex but accessible enquiry in to what it means to be human, the limits of free will, the nature of education and the wisdom of children. Age 9-14, Hardback 307pp

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Clive is a Nurse

by Jessica Spanyol

Ref: 15274

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2018 Clive is very proud of his nurse's outfit and nurse's kit. He enjoys bandaging Amy, sponge washing Penguin, feeding pasta to baby and checking inside Crocodile's mouth. Meantime, Anisa is busy driving her ambulance and Wilfred is happily wrapping up his own patients in a soft, pink-hearted, blankie. The latest addition to this fresh, every-delightful, series about Clive and his friends who role play, happily free of gender stereotypes and limitations. A gentle humour, as always, courses throughout. Age 1-3, Boardbook 12pp

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The Closest Thing to Flying

by Gill Lewis

Ref: 16026

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2020 Two parallel lives which echo and weave in and out of each other: Semira and her mother live in present day England, their immigration status insecure, their living conditions unsafe; Hen, a child living in Victorian England, is suffocating under the conventions of her family but is introduced by her magical Aunt Kitty to new forms of self-expression and freedoms: animal rights activism, the struggle for women's suffrage and women's and girls' first forays into cycling. Discovering Hen's diaries, Semira is emboldened to embark on her own flights of freedom, discovering her skills as a cyclist but also discovering the strength and courage to take herself and her mum to a place of refuge. On being shortlisted for the Little Rebels Award 2020, Gill Lewis describes her protagonists as "two girls trying to find their place in the world and their own voices too". Age 9-13, Paperback 223pp

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Fearless Fairy Tales

by Konnie Huq & James Kay
illustrated by Rikin Parekh

Ref: 16343

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2021 "It's not lying! It's simply taking the truth and twisting it. Adding a bit of spin. That's what news is all about these days." From Sly Fox spinning the news in Spinocchio to Wolf overcharging his three tenants in The Three Little Pugs, this collection of subversive fairy tales is a treat for both children and adults with its howls of protest. Age 7-12, Hardback 167pp

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Fight Back

Ref: 17155

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2023 The second novel from our 2021 Little Rebels Award winner (with Boy, Everywhere)! Political activism forms this novel's backbone as Aaliyah and her classmates take on Islamaphobia and racism and advocate for free expression through sit-in protests and public speaking. Age 9-14, Paperback 370pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

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Freedom

Ref: 15722

WINNER Little Rebels Award 2019 It's 1783 and 12-year-old Nat's mother and sister have just been forcibly removed from the Jamaican plantation where they're enslaved. When Nat's mistress tells him he'll be accompanying the master to England in order to look after a precious cargo of pineapples, Nat holds on to a tiny shard of hope- he's heard that there are no slaves in England; that you are free the moment you set foot on English soil. But it turns out that his new destination offers nothing even resembling a taste of freedom... An essential and accessible read, layered with historical material. "A short, powerful and richly imagined historical novel exposing the UK's often overlooked participation in the slave trade" (Catherine Barter, reviewing for the Little Rebels Award website). Age 8-12, Paperback 149pp

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The Goody

Ref: 16344

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2021 "Chirton Krauss was a good child, the very goodest. He did everything he was told, when he was told...Myrtle was not a good child, everyone told her so. And Myrtle never forgot to remember this". An always-good child and their never-good sibling cast off their labels to do something more and to be something more. Challenges the expectations and labels of others and celebrates the power to self-define. Age 5-8, Hardback 30pp

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Grandma

Ref: 14046

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2015 Oscar loves spending time with his Grandma but lately she has been getting forgetful and soon she has to go into a care home. A child-friendly exploration of what dementia is. Includes factual information to help children talk about their feelings and find new ways to enjoy the changing relationship. Little Rebels Judge, Elizabeth Laird, said: 'This tender, lovely story perfectly celebrates the close bond that many grandparents have with their grandchildren, and it handles with great sensitivity the adjustment that children have to make when a beloved grandmother's increasing dementia means that she has to go into a care home'. Ages 4-7, Paperback 28pp

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Hey You!

Ref: 16769

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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Hope Jones Saves the World

by Josh Lacey
illustrated by Beatriz Castro

Ref: 16345

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2021 "My name is Hope Jones. I am ten years old. I am going to save the world". The first in a new series in which a determined budding young activist, Hope Jones, tackles different environmental concerns. Here, her push to get her family to go plastic-free mushrooms in to a wider local community -and then a national- movement against supermarket plastic waste. Age 8-12, Paperback 169pp Click here to access the teaching sequence of activities for this book from Andersen Press, designed in partnership with CLPE.

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I Am Henry Finch

by Alexis Deacon
illustrated by Viavien Schwarz

Ref: 14050

WINNER Little Rebels Award 2016 The finches exist as an undifferentiated flock, going through each day together, doing the same thing, at the same pace. And then...one night, one particular finch, Henry Finch, has a thought. And he hears it. And he knows himself to be Henry Finch. And therefore also capable of greatness... A highly original philosophical book for the very young, addressing individualism, bravery, finding your way and, even, existentialism. Age 6-11, Paperback 37pp

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A Kind of Spark

Ref: 16347

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2021 "This memorial's really important to me. It's hard to explain why. Jean, Mary, those women...They didn't sound dangerous at all to me, they sounded scared. Different and scared". Addie has immediate experience of living in a society which tries to make her fit its ideas of 'normal'. So when she hears about her own local history of women accused of witchcraft, she is stirred and angered. Determined to restore and reframe those lost voices, she starts a campaign to build a memorial in her Scottish village. Debut author. Age 9-12, Paperback 186pp

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King Leonard's Teddy

Ref: 16047

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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The King Who Banned the Dark

Ref: 15719

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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The Little Bookshop and the Origami Army!

Ref: 14051

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2016 Superhero Origami Girl is back and this time she is on a mission to save a local bookshop. Foreman delivers us all of the defining ingredients of a 'radical' children's book; this could have been written for the Little Rebels Award with its themes of: capitalism threatening a local community and independent businesses, the complacency of governments in the face of large corporations, the possibilities of people power and local community action. Age 4-7, Hardback 22pp

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The Little Island

by Smriti Prasadam-Halls
illustrated by Robert Starling

Ref: 16036

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 Red

Ref: 14666

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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Made by Raffi

by Craig Pomranz
illustrated by Margaret Chamberlain

Ref: 14045

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2015 Raffi is a small boy with hair a little longer than most and clothes brighter than most. Shy and quiet, he dislikes noise and ball games- and is often teased at school. When he discovers sewing and knitting, the teasing simply goes up a notch. Can Raffi find a way to enjoy and celebrate his 'difference'? Might his classmates even, finally, see him as a little enviable? Little Rebels Judge, Wendy Cooling, said: 'Craig Pomranz was inspired by a true-life incident to tell this story, one of diversity and celebration of difference...When Raffi discovers knitting and sewing his life turns around. At first he's teased but his enthusiasm helps him to ignore this and when he rises to the challenge of a cloak for the school play, other children treat him with a new respect and realise that his difference is something special. This is an inclusive book, illustrated to complement the brilliance of Raffi's ideas'. Age 4-7, Paperback 40pp

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Malala's Magic Pencil

by Malala Yousafzai
illustrated by Kerascoet

Ref: 15280

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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Mayor Bunny's Chocolate Town

Ref: 17168

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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Mr Bunny's Chocolate Factory

Ref: 15305

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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Nadine Dreams of Home

by Bernard Ashley
with illustrations by Ollie Cuthbertson

Ref: 14043

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2015 Nadine and her family flee the civil conflict and rebel army in Goma to start over in the UK. But school is a strange and frightening place to Nadine- until a teacher finds her a special picture which reminds her of home. Little Rebels Judge, Kim Reynolds, said: 'This short book conveys some of the sense of strangeness, fear and unhappiness children like Nadine experience. It also provides an optimistic ending of a kind that can help children believe it is possible for situations to improve- a vital source of inspiration for little rebels in the making'. Reading Age 7+ Interest 8-12, Paperback 47pp

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The New Neighbours

Ref: 15706

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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No Country

by Joe Brady
illustrated by Patrice Aggs

Ref: 16753

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2022 Bea and her family are struggling to survive. Civil war rages between an authoritarian state and rebels, a.k.a. 'Free Kingdom'. The Daily Truth spouts fake news; street posters scream, 'Never Question Authority'; supermarket shelves are bare; power cuts are frequent; the military patrol the streets; society is breaking down. In this country, you try to pick your time to run; you become a refugee overnight. Will Bea's family get to safety in time? (Graphic novel). Age 9-13, Paperback 202pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

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No Man's Land

Ref: 16741

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2022 Albion (formerly England) is a far right country on the brink of war with Europe. There are curfews; supporters brandish their AAA tattoos (Albion-American-Alliance); traitors are imprisoned; girls are chaperoned; people from minority groups leave or are 'disappeared'. For their own safety, Dad sends 10-year-old Alan and his little brother to No-Man's Land, a neutral territory run by women. Can they build a sanctuary? Age 9-12, Paperback 263pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

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Now or Never: A Dunkirk Story

Ref: 16041

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2020 Private Fazal Khan leaves his home in India to join Company 32, supporting the British in World War II, including the beach battlefield at Dunkirk. Initially proud to enlist, Fazal begins to question his own loyalty when he starts to encounter hostilities well inside of enemy lines. 1.5 million Indians volunteered towards the UK's efforts during World War 2, forming what is still the biggest volunteer force in modern history. And yet, barely any of those stories are ever heard or told. Now or Never forms part of an important new series -Voices from Scholastic UK (edited by Tony Bradman)- designed to uncover and amplify Black and Minority Ethnic lives in UK History. On being shortlisted for the Little Rebels Award 2020, Bali Rai said about his historical novel "A lot of these stories are unknown...those unheard stories need to be brought to the fore...it's dreadful that we don't understand UK History in the correct way". Age 9-14, paperback 202pp

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Ossiri and the Bala Mengro

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

Ref: 14658

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2017 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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Planet Omar Accidental Trouble Magnet

by Zanib Mian
illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik

Ref: 15692

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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The Promise

by Nicola Davies
illustrated by Laura Carlin

Ref: 14061

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. Little Rebels Judge, Kim Reynolds, said: 'This gorgeous picture book features a young urban thief who becomes a guerrilla gardener of mythic proportions. The poetic prose underscores the vital connection between humans and nature and encourages young readers to believe that, despite the gloomy news about climate change, they can make a difference through small actions. Laura Carlin's atmospheric illustrations movingly follow the change from grey, grim cityscapes to vibrant cities in bloom'. Ages 5-8, Paperback 38pp

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Proud of Me

Ref: 16747

WINNER Little Rebels Award 2022 Becky and Josh are almost-twin, just-turned teen, siblings. They have the same anonymous donor and are parented by Mum and Ima. Just lately, Josh has started to wonder about the identity of his donor. Becky, meantime, is starting to question who she is and where she fits in; will the new LGBTQ+ group at school help her figure it out? A coming-of-age adventure in family, friendship and finding yourself- road trip included! Age 9-12, Paperback 289pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

Running on Empty

Ref: 15723

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2019 "The thing that makes me different from other eleven-year-old boys, apart from my fantastic running ability, is my parents have learning difficulties. It's no big deal for me. Really it isn't. I don't look after them. We look after each other". Welcome to the world of AJ- the world of a young carer whose role intensifies when his much loved grandparent dies, leaving him dealing with his grief and a confusing adult world of bills and payments... A warm, moving and uplifting coming-of-age narrative. Set right next to the Olympic stadium, Stratford. "A sensitive and powerful story which explores the impact of financial hardship and a poorly functioning welfare system on young people" (Catherine Barter, reviewing for the Little Rebels Award website). Age 9-12 Paperback 225pp

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Sneaky Beak

by Tracey Corderoy
illustrated by Tony Neal

Ref: 16025

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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The Secret of Haven Point

by Lisette Auton
with illustrations by Valentina Toro

Ref: 17173

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2023 A cast of disabled characters star in a coastal adventure, complete with mermaids and shipwreck lootings. This magic-realism narrative also comes with challenges to myths about disabled people, a visionary community underpinned by a social model of disability and a subtle exploration of separatism. Age 9-12, Paperback 378pp

Click here to download reading and discussion guide.

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Sofia Valdez, Future Prez

by Andrea Beaty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 16019

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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The Soup Movement

Ref: 16348

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2021 "'They'd rather send stuff to the landfill than feed people in need,' said Harry. They seem to accept it as a fact of life, but to me it's the most unfair thing I've ever heard". When a fellow cancer patient, Rio, challenges Jordan to perform daily mitzvahs/acts of kindness, it sets him on a campaigning road to raise awareness of and provide support to the local street homeless community. Soon, a small scale DIY soup kitchen grows in to a much wider protest, attracting local and national attention. Age 9-12, Paperback 314pp

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Sunflower Sisters

by Monika Singh Gangotra
illustrated by Michaela Dias-Hayes

Ref: 16766

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

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Tomorrow

Ref: 15721

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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Scarlet Ibis

Ref: 14030

WINNER Little Rebels Award 2015 Scarlet is used to looking after her little brother so when her mum's depression results in them being split up into different foster homes, Scarlet is determined to get her brother back. Explores mental health and the complexities of the care system (without demonizing any social workers!) Little Rebels Judge, Kim Reynolds, said: 'Scarlet Ibis stands out as a book that not only fulfils the criteria for the award but is also excellently crafted...a story that celebrates the often overlooked courage, loyalty and competence of children. As Gill Lewis acknowledges, some children are already changing their worlds. Scarlet Ibis will encourage others to think about how they might improve conditions for wildlife and vulnerable people, young and old'. Accepting the award, Gill Lewis said, '(The award) reminds me to keep on being a little rebel. Because being a rebel isn't just about challenging the big things...it's also about challenging everyday things; it's about not letting prejudice sneak in...(because) it comes in in celebrity jokes or it rides on the back of politicians tapping into our fears'. You can see her full acceptance speech here: Ages 9-12, Paperback 203pp

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Show Us Who You Are

Ref: 16759

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2022 On the surface, the Pomegranate Institute promises comfort to the recently bereaved, extending people's 'lives' through uncannily true-to-life holograms. But are they simply bringing back to 'life' or are they trading in digital cures and a morally dubious vision of human perfection? When they zoom in on Cora, who is neurodivergent, for their research programme, things take a sinister turn. Can Cora and best friend, Adrien, expose Pomegranate's ambitions in time? Can they quite literally save humanity? Age 9-12, Paperback 310pp

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Sky Dancer

Ref: 15286

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2018 Gill Lewis once again manages to combine political and thought-provoking content with an easy, flowing narrative. In what is surely brand new material for children's literature, Lewis explores the environmental impact of grouse shooting-and therefore, in turn, deforestation and endangered hen harriers- and raises the radical possibility of rewilding our landscapes. All this within a cast of characters who straddle our bizarre English class hierarchy from the landed aristocracy who run the grouse-shooting business to the working class gamekeepers and grouse beaters dependent on the land for their work. At both ends of the spectrum, young people- Joe, Minty and Ella- are galvanised and empowered to have a say on the great cost to them all of leaving this 'sport' unchecked. A fantastic tribute to all of the children and young people who ask, 'why?' and then keep asking 'why?' This is the fourth book Lewis has had on the Little Rebels Shortlist. Truly one of the UK's most compassionate and politicised children's authors. Age 9-12, Paperback 259pp **Special offer is £1.99 off, usually £6.99**

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Sweet Pizza

Ref: 14841

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2017 Joe is proud of his Welsh/Italian heritage and the business run by his family in Bryn Mawr, South Wales. Mum is starting to feel less enamoured with Café Merelli's cracked Formica walls and peeling vinyl, none of which is likely to get repaired while the local recession persists. But Joe is full of entrepreneurial spirit. Inspired by his grandfather/Nono's stories of the past and with the arrival of his authentically Italian cousin, Mimi, Joe is eager to learn all the secrets of al dente pasta and to fight to protect Café Merelli's future by reviving it's Italian origins. Along the way, Joe learns some sometimes difficult truths about his own roots and the history and lives of Italian immigrants in Wales. A warm, funny and clever story about identity, belonging and immigration, within a working-class (for once!) community- with a very endearing, chip-loving, opera-adoring child at its centre. (nb: one of the narrative strands is loosely based on the 1940 sinking of the SS Arandora Star which sailed from Liverpool with interned Italians and Germans- 53 of the Italians who died were from Wales). Fab backnotes on opera and some pasta recipes! Age 9-12, Paperback 283pp

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What Happened to You?

by James Catchpole
illustrated by Karen George

Ref: 16735

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

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You Need to Chill!

by Juno Dawson
illustrated by Laura Hughes

Ref: 17178

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

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Little Rebels Shortlisted Books

Little Rebels Shortlist 2023

Little Rebels Shortlist 2023

Little Rebels Pack (Primary Key Stages 1)

Little Rebels Pack (Primary Key Stages 1)

Little Rebels Pack (Primary Key Stages 2)

Little Rebels Pack (Primary Key Stages 2)

Little Rebels Pack (Primary Key Stages 1 & 2)

Little Rebels Pack (Primary Key Stages 1 & 2)

928 Miles From Home

928 Miles From Home

Ada Twist, Scientist

Ada Twist, Scientist

After Tomorrow

After Tomorrow

Agent Asha

Agent Asha

Ajay and the Mumbai Sun

Ajay and the Mumbai Sun

Azzi In Between

Azzi In Between

The Boy at the Top of the Mountain

The Boy at the Top of the Mountain

Boy Everywhere

Boy Everywhere

The Boy Who Loved Everyone

The Boy Who Loved Everyone

Brand New Boy

Brand New Boy

Clive is a Nurse

Clive is a Nurse

The Closest Thing to Flying

The Closest Thing to Flying

Fearless Fairy Tales

Fearless Fairy Tales

Fight Back

Fight Back

Freedom

Freedom

The Goody

The Goody

Grandma

Grandma

Hey You!

Hey You!

Hope Jones Saves the World

Hope Jones Saves the World

I Am Henry Finch

I Am Henry Finch

I Am Nefertiti

I Am Nefertiti

It Isn't Rude to be Nude

It Isn't Rude to be Nude

A Kind of Spark

A Kind of Spark

King Leonard's Teddy

King Leonard's Teddy

The King Who Banned the Dark

The King Who Banned the Dark

The Little Bookshop and the Origami Army!

The Little Bookshop and the Origami Army!

The Little Island

The Little Island

Little Red

Little Red

Made by Raffi

Made by Raffi

Malala's Magic Pencil

Malala's Magic Pencil

Mayor Bunny's Chocolate Town

Mayor Bunny's Chocolate Town

Mr Bunny's Chocolate Factory

Mr Bunny's Chocolate Factory

Nadine Dreams of Home

Nadine Dreams of Home

Needle

Needle

The New Neighbours

The New Neighbours

No Country