Midnight Feasts: Tasty Poems

Edited by A.F. Harrold
illustrated by Katy Riddell

Ref: CL01

The perfect Christmas gift for any food or poetry lover, this scrumptious illustrated hardback contains over 50 poems about every type of food imaginable. Food is the one thing that unites us all - across time, nations and peoples. From chocolate, rice pudding and sandwiches to breakfast in bed, marmalade in the bath and the fruit of a mythical jelabi tree, in Midnight Feasts A.F. Harrold brings together a wonderful and diverse collection of poems to tickle your taste buds. Poets include Ian McMillan, Brian Patten, Choman Hardi, Imtiaz Dharker, William Carlos Williams, Salena Godden, Joseph Coelho, Sabrina Mahfouz, Lewis Carroll, W.S. Gilbert and A.E. Housman, as well as A.F. Harrold himself. This stunning poetry book is beautifully illustrated in full colour by rising star Katy Riddell (daughter of former Children's Laureate, Chris Riddell) and is the perfect present - at Christmas or any other time year. It will have the poetry and food fans in your life licking their lips!

Quantity:

Poems the wind blew in: Poems for Children

by Karmelo C. Iribarren
illustrated by Riya Chowdhury

Ref: CL02

Be careful when you open this book: as soon as you do, the wind will whisk you up and take you on an adventure across the city. You’ll roam down empty streets, take a ride on the Metro, and catch glimpses of worlds within worlds in puddles and chimneytops. But even as the wind hurries you along, there will always be time to stop for a moment and look: at the night, the rain, the trees, the sea... These poems reveal the magic in small, everyday things: a plastic bag dreams of becoming a cloud, raindrops go on holiday to the sea, and hats fill up with thoughts. The book builds an immersive, tender world and encourages the reader to look at the world around them with wonder and delight.

More Info Poems the wind blew in: Poems for Children

Quantity:

The Proper Way to Meet a Hedgehog and Other How-To Poems

edited by Paul B. Janeczko
illustrated by Richard Jones

Ref: CL03

A collection of "how-to" poems on all sorts of subjects and from all around the world, edited and illustrated by two major talents. Find a patch of unbroken snow; dye your hair green with purple spots; slowly breathe in and out; bounce in your space-boots ... and don’t take off your helmet, whatever you do! A "how-to" poem shows the steps in a process - here, award-winning anthologist Paul B. Janeczko presents charming examples of the genre. There are over thirty poems in this beautiful, memorable treasury, each one illustrated with elegance and flair. The poets featured are from around the world and through history, bringing together classic writers, like Christina Rossetti and Robert Louis Stephenson, and modern stars, such as Kwame Alexander and Nikki Grimes. And their poems pose all sorts of questions. Some are lyrical (How do you build a poem?), others seemingly practical (How do you mix a pancake?), many more wry (How do you pay attention?). But they all share something in common: answers that are certain to delight and intrigue...

More Info The Proper Way to Meet a Hedgehog and Other How-To Poems

Quantity:

Wain: LGBT reimaginings of Scottish folktales

by Rachel Plummer
illustrated by Helene Boppert

Ref: CL04

Wain is a collection of LGBT themed poetry for teens based on retellings of Scottish myths. The collection contains stories about kelpies, selkies, and the Loch Ness Monster, alongside perhaps lesser-known mythical people and creatures, such as wulvers, Ghillie Dhu, and the Cat Sìth. These poems immerse readers in an enriching, diverse and enchanting vision of contemporary life. The poems in this collection are fun, surprising, and full of a magical mix of myth and contemporary LGBT themes - it is a perfect read for teens who are learning more about themselves, other people, and the world around them. Wain is fully illustrated in colour, by Helene Boppert.

More Info Wain: LGBT reimaginings of Scottish folktales

Quantity:

Cherry Moon Little Poems Big Ideas Mindful of Nature

by Zaro Weil
illustrated by Junli Song

Ref: CL05

This wondrous poetry collection captures eye-popping moments, tender observations and a thousand whimsical reflections on the sheer joy of the natural world. Cherry Moon bubbles with excitement and creativity. Discover parades of beast-doodles, preposterous penguins, talking blossoms, razz- dazzle birds, humble fleas and host of other exotic and everyday creatures who literally jump off the page and into our hearts. Thought-provoking, sensitive and delightfully original, Cherry Moon poses big questions about life with poems and other small gatherings of words; encouraging children of every age to explore the power, enchantment and sheer wonderfulness of nature.

More Info Cherry Moon Little Poems Big Ideas Mindful of Nature

Quantity:

Midnight Feasts: Tasty Poems

Edited by A.F. Harrold
illustrated by Katy Riddell

Ref: CL01

The perfect Christmas gift for any food or poetry lover, this scrumptious illustrated hardback contains over 50 poems about every type of food imaginable. Food is the one thing that unites us all - across time, nations and peoples. From chocolate, rice pudding and sandwiches to breakfast in bed, marmalade in the bath and the fruit of a mythical jelabi tree, in Midnight Feasts A.F. Harrold brings together a wonderful and diverse collection of poems to tickle your taste buds. Poets include Ian McMillan, Brian Patten, Choman Hardi, Imtiaz Dharker, William Carlos Williams, Salena Godden, Joseph Coelho, Sabrina Mahfouz, Lewis Carroll, W.S. Gilbert and A.E. Housman, as well as A.F. Harrold himself. This stunning poetry book is beautifully illustrated in full colour by rising star Katy Riddell (daughter of former Children's Laureate, Chris Riddell) and is the perfect present - at Christmas or any other time year. It will have the poetry and food fans in your life licking their lips!

Quantity:

Poems the wind blew in: Poems for Children

by Karmelo C. Iribarren
illustrated by Riya Chowdhury

Ref: CL02

Be careful when you open this book: as soon as you do, the wind will whisk you up and take you on an adventure across the city. You’ll roam down empty streets, take a ride on the Metro, and catch glimpses of worlds within worlds in puddles and chimneytops. But even as the wind hurries you along, there will always be time to stop for a moment and look: at the night, the rain, the trees, the sea... These poems reveal the magic in small, everyday things: a plastic bag dreams of becoming a cloud, raindrops go on holiday to the sea, and hats fill up with thoughts. The book builds an immersive, tender world and encourages the reader to look at the world around them with wonder and delight.

Quantity:

The Proper Way to Meet a Hedgehog and Other How-To Poems

edited by Paul B. Janeczko
illustrated by Richard Jones

Ref: CL03

A collection of "how-to" poems on all sorts of subjects and from all around the world, edited and illustrated by two major talents. Find a patch of unbroken snow; dye your hair green with purple spots; slowly breathe in and out; bounce in your space-boots ... and don’t take off your helmet, whatever you do! A "how-to" poem shows the steps in a process - here, award-winning anthologist Paul B. Janeczko presents charming examples of the genre. There are over thirty poems in this beautiful, memorable treasury, each one illustrated with elegance and flair. The poets featured are from around the world and through history, bringing together classic writers, like Christina Rossetti and Robert Louis Stephenson, and modern stars, such as Kwame Alexander and Nikki Grimes. And their poems pose all sorts of questions. Some are lyrical (How do you build a poem?), others seemingly practical (How do you mix a pancake?), many more wry (How do you pay attention?). But they all share something in common: answers that are certain to delight and intrigue...

Quantity:

Wain: LGBT reimaginings of Scottish folktales

by Rachel Plummer
illustrated by Helene Boppert

Ref: CL04

Wain is a collection of LGBT themed poetry for teens based on retellings of Scottish myths. The collection contains stories about kelpies, selkies, and the Loch Ness Monster, alongside perhaps lesser-known mythical people and creatures, such as wulvers, Ghillie Dhu, and the Cat Sìth. These poems immerse readers in an enriching, diverse and enchanting vision of contemporary life. The poems in this collection are fun, surprising, and full of a magical mix of myth and contemporary LGBT themes - it is a perfect read for teens who are learning more about themselves, other people, and the world around them. Wain is fully illustrated in colour, by Helene Boppert.

Quantity:

Cherry Moon Little Poems Big Ideas Mindful of Nature

by Zaro Weil
illustrated by Junli Song

Ref: CL05

This wondrous poetry collection captures eye-popping moments, tender observations and a thousand whimsical reflections on the sheer joy of the natural world. Cherry Moon bubbles with excitement and creativity. Discover parades of beast-doodles, preposterous penguins, talking blossoms, razz- dazzle birds, humble fleas and host of other exotic and everyday creatures who literally jump off the page and into our hearts. Thought-provoking, sensitive and delightfully original, Cherry Moon poses big questions about life with poems and other small gatherings of words; encouraging children of every age to explore the power, enchantment and sheer wonderfulness of nature.

Quantity:

CLiPPA-CLPE Poetry Award Book Pack

Ref: 15302

The CLiPPA (Centre for Literacy in Primary Poetry Award for a book of poetry for children was launched in 2003. This is the only award for published poetry for children. This award highlights an important branch of children’s literature, ensuring that it receives proper recognition. The award is presented annually for a book of poetry published in the preceding year. This pack is made up of 7 titles that have been on the shortlist. These are: One by Sarah Crossan Overheard in a Tower Block by Joseph Coelho The Rainmaker Danced by John Agard Booked by Kwame Alexander Dancing in the Rain by John Lyons Falling Out of the Sky Edited by Rachel Piercey and Emma Wright Poetry Pie by Roger McGough Price includes 20% discount FULL RETAIL PRICE £57.44 (SAVING £11.48) The Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE) is running a schools shadowing scheme alongside the national children’s poetry award. Primary schools from the UK and beyond are invited to take part. We will provide free teaching resources which show how the poetry shadowing fits into the English National Curriculum and enhances all aspects of literacy learning. These will include teaching sequences and films of the shortlisted poets performing and giving writing tips. There are also films from schools who participated in last year’s scheme to provide inspiration. For more information visit

Click here for the CLPE CLiPPA Poetry Award website

More Info CLiPPA-CLPE Poetry Award Book Pack

Quantity:

#Goldilocks: A Hashtag Cautionary Tale

by Jeanne Willis
illustrated by Tony Ross

Ref: 16185

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

More Info #Goldilocks: A Hashtag Cautionary Tale

Quantity:

Ada Twist, Scientist

by Andrea Beaty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 14324

"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

Quantity:

A Great Big Cuddle

by Michael Rosen
illustrated by Chris Riddell

Ref: 14606

"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

Quantity:

Bathe the Cat

by Alice B. McGinty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 16496

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

Quantity:

Best Friends, Busy Friends

by Susan Rollings
illustrated by Nichola Cowdery

Ref: 16325

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

Quantity:

Books Always Everywhere

by Jane Blatt
illustrated by Sarah Massini

Ref: 16477

"Book scary, Book funny. Book rainy, Book sunny". An enthused group of toddlers share their book obsessions- reading in any place, in all weathers and at all times of the day; finding books scattered on the duvet, balanced in tree tops...and everywhere! Fun, rhyming and decidedly bookish with, appropriately enough, many more pages than is typical for a boardbook! Age Birth-3, Boardbook 22pp

Quantity:

Chicken Clicking

by Jeanne Willis
illustrated by Tony Ross

Ref: 14700

A brilliant, much needed, early years book on internet safety, recently selected by a nursery group we work with for Child Safety Week. This picture book starts out happily enough with a chirpy little chick who stumbles on the farmer's computer. It then sounds a note of caution as chick starts to enjoy a little online shopping. Finally, loud alarm bells ring as chick posts a picture of herself online and arranges to meet a stranger offline- at which point the text ends. Willis has a real knack for exploring tough and challenging subjects with a completely appropriate lightness of touch and a directness which makes her work perfectly suited for an adult/child discussion. 'I liked this. There is wonderful humour in the rhyming text. A good starting point for opening this subject up at school' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 23pp

Quantity:

The Crow's Tale

Ref: 15344

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

Quantity:

Dancing in the Rain

Ref: 14598

"It's not impossible, and I tell you no lie, / I saw a whole Kentucky fried chicken / flying high up in the sky". An illustrated collection of rhymes from John Lyons, published by Peepal Tree Press, the home of Caribbean and Back British literature. With some of the best poetry headers we've heard -Street-wise Pigeons, De Time Ah Forgot Me Lunch Box Our Cat Rasputin- and a gentle wit which rumbles throughout. Gorgeous read-aloud bursts of rhythm, rhyme... a dash of Creole here and there and lashings of onomatopoeia! Shortlisted for the . Age 7-11, Paperback 71pp

Quantity:

Dare

by Lorna Gutierrez
by Polly Noakes

Ref: 16088

"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

Quantity:

The Deepest Breath

Ref: 16405

Stevie knows a lot of things. About a lot of things. Including about herself. But one thing she doesn't know is the "something funny", the "fizzy feeling" that overcomes her when she looks at her friend, Chloe. A dreamy stream of free verse details the anxiety and then the realisation and the joy as Stevie recognises her shifting sexuality. A sensitive exploration of identity and anxiety by an Irish, award-winning author. So very well pitched to a middle grade, pre-teen, reader. 'What an amazing book- on so many levels. The narrative style and layout make the reading fast and easy; the characters are so well drawn. Perfect- understandable, life affirming for so many young people' (Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, LL reviewer). Age 9-14, Paperback 156pp

Quantity:

Dinosaur Rap

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

Ref: 14814

"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

Quantity:

Do Not Bring Your Dragon to the Library

by Julie Gassman
illustrated by Andy Elkerton

Ref: 14795

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

More Info Do Not Bring Your Dragon to the Library

Quantity:

Einstein The Girl Who Hated Maths

by John Agard
illustrated by Satoshi Kitamura

Ref: 8438

From a much-loved poet and winner of the 2012 Queen's Gold Medal for Poetry...and someone who himself took Maths O' Level 3 times as a child. This collection turns maths into a source of fun and wonder: hexahedrons become multi-faced mythical giants; dinosaurs are weighed out in tons; Bisector steps out as a perky pendicular. 'Makes maths interesting and creative' (Cariad, Theatre Lecturer, LL reviewer). Age 7-12, Paperback, 75pp

More Info Einstein The Girl Who Hated Maths

Quantity:

Elephant in My Kitchen

by Smiti Halls
illustrated by Ella Okstad

Ref: 16135

With an elephant in the kitchen, a gorilla in the bedroom and a tiger on the toilet, one child's house is getting rather crowded! The final straw comes when Pink Rabbit gets squished by a tribe of hopping toads. But it turns out that those same animals are simply seeking refuge- their own homes are disappearing through careless and destructive human interventions on the natural world. A band of children are immediately empowered to take action. A resoundingly fun call to us all to take better care of our planet. Strong and delightfully silly rhymes. Charming illustrations- the knickers-on-head, badminton playing panda is a joy. Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp

Quantity:

Falling Out of the Sky: Poems About Myths & Monsters

Ref: 14602

Twenty contemporary poets introduce some of our pet monsters of legends including Medusa (plus her sisters), the Cheshire bog monster and the Witch from Hansel and Gretel at her home... in the New Forest! Inspired by Greek myths, Norse myths and traditional tales- and covering a range of forms from ballads to sonnets to haiku. Included on the Letterbox Library website as we are suppliers of the Age 9-12, Paperback 115pp

More Info Falling Out of the Sky: Poems About Myths & Monsters

Quantity:

Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors

by Hena Khan
illustrated by Mehrdokht Amini

Ref: 14750

"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

More Info Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors

Quantity:

Happy Birthday Madame Chapeau

by Andrea Beaty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 13803

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

Quantity:

Happy Birthday Madame Chapeau

by Andrea Beaty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 13803

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

Quantity:

Happy to be Me

Ref: 15622

"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

Quantity:

Hello Hello

Ref: 15673

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

Quantity:

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

collected by Michael Rosen
illustrated by Chris Riddell

Ref: 16103

"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

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

Quantity:

Hot Like Fire and Other Poems

by Valerie Bloom
illustrated by Debbie Lush

Ref: 15508

When de July sun hot like fire, Den I have jus' one desire, To run down to de shop an' buy a Kisko pop. The World Is Sweet and Hot Like Fire published in one volume for the first time. Valerie Bloom's poetry is beautifully crafted yet full of energy and fun. Her mixed use of standard English and dialect is a delight to read and hear. Children love reading and listening to her work! Valerie's subjects range from global pollution, problems with maths homework and the sad demise of pet frogs (he croaked of course) to taking sandwiches to school and being afraid of ghosts. Age 9-12, Paperback 167pp

Quantity:

I Know A Lot!

by Stephen Krensky
illustrated by Sara Gillingham

Ref: 13894

"I know balls can bounce, and kites can fly!" A wonderful, rhythmic and rhyming ode to knowledge. Simple, clever text which, in the words of one of our reviewers, shows 'knowledge as practical and learnt from real life' (Maggie, EY Advisory Teacher). An extremely empowering book for toddlers. Great portrayal of (single?) Dad and daughter relationship too. 'Loved this sturdy book. Great illustrations and language that toddlers will relate to' (Debbie, Senior Lecturer in Education, Letterbox reviewer). Age 2-4, Boardbook 12pp

Quantity:

I Like Bees, I Don't Like Honey!

by Sam Bishop
illustrated by Fiona Lumbers

Ref: 16294

"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

More Info I Like Bees, I Don't Like Honey!

Quantity:

Joy to the World!: Christmas Around the Globe

by Kate DePalma
illustrated by Sophie Fatus

Ref: 16484

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

Quantity:

Kangaroo Kisses

by Nandana Dev Sen
illustrated by Pippa Curnick

Ref: 14235

"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

Quantity:

Let's Celebrate: Special Days Around the World

by Kate DePalma
illustrated by Martina Peluso

Ref: 16446

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

More Info Let's Celebrate: Special Days Around the World

Quantity:

Let's go to Bed

Ref: 14217

Four joyful children go about everyday activities in familiar outdoor and indoor environments. Rhyming, bouncing, rhythmic text. Bright, fresh watercolours full of charming details. Perfect for 'Understanding the World' topics - toddlers will see their lives reflected and will be thoroughly tickled by the energy and smiles of Mimi, Max, Ete and Renai. There is something very snug and comforting about this series." "A wonderful series of 4 books featuring 2 girls and 2 boys as these lovely children go about their everyday activities. Simple often rhyming language and beautiful illustrations throughout that all children will identify with. Beautiful books that young children will enjoy repeatedly as they become more familiar with each retelling." (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Ages 0-3, 14pp Board book.

Quantity:

Let's feed the Ducks

Ref: 14218

Four joyful children go about everyday activities in familiar outdoor and indoor environments. Rhyming, bouncing, rhythmic text. Bright, fresh watercolours full of charming details. Perfect for 'Understanding the World' topics - toddlers will see their lives reflected and will be thoroughly tickled by the energy and smiles of Mimi, Max, Ete and Renai. There is something very snug and comforting about this series." "A wonderful series of 4 books featuring 2 girls and 2 boys as these lovely children go about their everyday activities. Simple often rhyming language and beautiful illustrations throughout that all children will identify with. Beautiful books that young children will enjoy repeatedly as they become more familiar with each retelling." (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Ages 0-3, 14pp Board book.

Let's have fun

Ref: 14219

Four joyful children go about everyday activities in familiar outdoor and indoor environments. Rhyming, bouncing, rhythmic text. Bright, fresh watercolours full of charming details. Perfect for 'Understanding the World' topics - toddlers will see their lives reflected and will be thoroughly tickled by the energy and smiles of Mimi, Max, Ete and Renai. There is something very snug and comforting about this series." "A wonderful series of 4 books featuring 2 girls and 2 boys as these lovely children go about their everyday activities. Simple often rhyming language and beautiful illustrations throughout that all children will identify with. Beautiful books that young children will enjoy repeatedly as they become more familiar with each retelling." (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Ages 0-3, 14pp Board book.

Quantity:

Let's go to Playgroup

Ref: 14220

Four joyful children go about everyday activities in familiar outdoor and indoor environments. Rhyming, bouncing, rhythmic text. Bright, fresh watercolours full of charming details. Perfect for 'Understanding the World' topics - toddlers will see their lives reflected and will be thoroughly tickled by the energy and smiles of Mimi, Max, Ete and Renai. There is something very snug and comforting about this series." "A wonderful series of 4 books featuring 2 girls and 2 boys as these lovely children go about their everyday activities. Simple often rhyming language and beautiful illustrations throughout that all children will identify with. Beautiful books that young children will enjoy repeatedly as they become more familiar with each retelling." (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Ages 0-3, 14pp Board book.

Quantity:

Off to Market (PB)

by Elizabeth Dale
illustrated by Erika Paul

Ref: 12818

"Here is the bus off to market today, Shiny and bright as it starts on its way, With Joe, the young driver, smiling with pride, When everyone stops him to get on and ride." Joe's bus is full of people going to market- too full! How can they lighten the load? Warm and humorous rhyming text and gorgeous, colourful artwork make this story a joy. Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp

Quantity:

Moonrise

Ref: 2840

Joe hasn't seen his brother for ten years- Ed is on death row and now, finally, his execution date has been set. Told from the perspective of Joe, this verse novel for young adults comes from one of our most exciting contemporary poets. A substantial work, this rich, blank verse is also broken down into distinctive vignettes which work independently. Intense, endearing and witty. Shortlisted for the Costa Children's Book Award 2017, the YA Book Prize 2018 and the 2018 CLPE Poetry Award (Centre for Literacy in Primary Education). Crossan's previous verse novel, One, won many awards including the 2016 CILIP Carnegie Medal and was joint winner of the 2016 CLiPPA. Age 14-18 Hardback 382pp

Quantity:

One

Ref: 14595

"But here is my story. / The story of how it is to be Two. / The story of how it is to be One. / The Story of Us. / And it is an epitaph. / An epitaph to love." Winner of the CILIP Carnegie medal 2016, the YA Book Prize 2016 as well as CBI Book of the Year (the leading Irish children's book award). Once tells the story of teenage conjoined twines, Grace and Tippi, as they leave the sanctuary of home schooling and enter a world which will ask so much, too much, of them. A long flow of verse perfectly suited to the teaching of free verse composition- which is also easily broken down into powerful, stand alone, poems. Offered here in the original, beautiful hardback edition. Included on the Letterbox Library website as we are suppliers of the ; Crossan's One was the 2016 joint winner (with A Great Big Cuddle) Age 11+, Hardback 434pp

Quantity:

Overheard in a Tower Block

by Joseph Coelho
illustrated by Kate Milner

Ref: 2841

Coelho's second solo anthology combines magic, mythology, fantasy and realism to trace a boy's life in the city from childhood through to adulthood. Challenging themes of bullying, family breakdown and loneliness are nevertheless overlaid with Coelho's trademark humour, optimism and faith in young people's resilience. A previous CLPE Poetry Award winner in 2015 (Centre for Literacy in Primary Education), this second solo collection was shortlisted for the 2018 award. Selected for EmpathyLab's 2018 Read for Empathy Guide. Age 10+, Paperback 111pp

Quantity:

Pearl Power and the Toy Problem

Ref: 14934

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

Quantity:

Play Time, Puppy!

Ref: 15895

Tunes in perfectly to toddlers' love of chatting to their toys! Children can manipulate the (sturdily) attached finger puppy puppet while interacting with a rhyming, conversational text and a mini-journey with trucks and trains and building blocks. 'Another fun Child's Play book with plenty of opportunity to talk about what's happening and have fun with the finger puppet' (Carey, Childminder, Letterbox Library reviewer). Great fun (we loved the Black doll' passenger' too). [East Asian protagonist]. Age Birth to 2, Boardbook (+ attached puppet) 8pp

Quantity:

Poetry Pie

Ref: 14592

"Sausages though tasty / Are difficult to rhyme / Unlike pies." Rhyming sausages, besotted otters, hedgehog soup and heroic window cleaners -Lord of the Rungs- all feature in this bouncy, funny collection of rhymes. Ideal for exploring a range of poetic forms, from rigorous structures to free verse. Also ideal for giggles. Included on the Letterbox Library website as we are suppliers of the Age 7-10, Paperback 110pp

Quantity:

The Rainmaker Danced

by John Agard
illustrated by Satoshi Kitamura

Ref: 2826

"If I lie / on a page / am I a free word?" Classic John Agard- opening his poetry collection with a vast, vast question before diving off into and then twisting up mythology, traditional tales and the everyday. The themes are ever-diverse: the journey of Laika, the Spuitnik dog launched into space; the day world peace is declared through a tweet; the credibility of Yetis, unicorns and Nessie the Loch Ness Monster... Described by Helen Dunmore in The Observer as "one of the most eloquent contemporary poets", Agard is also a winner of the Queen's Gold Medal and the Eleanor Farjeon Award. This anthology was shortlisted for the 2018 CLPE Poetry Award (Centre for Literacy in Primary Education). Age 8+, Paperback 89pp

Quantity:

Ready Steady Mo

Ref: 14693

"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

Quantity:

Rising Stars: New Young Voices in Poetry

by R. Awolola, V. Adukwei Bulley, A. Cook, J. Hulma and Amina Jama
illustrated by R. Chowdhury, E. Chuah & Joe Manners

Ref: 2782

Poems about the body, aliens, peas, a cousin's clothes, afro hair and Auntie Lucille; structures from free verse to haiku...a superb mix of word recipes which beg to be performed. We were delighted to be at the launch of this unique poetry collection, brought about by a collaboration between the indie gem of a publisher, Otter-Barry, and Pop Up Projects- and with the support/advice of Joelle Taylor, Artistic Director of SLAMbassadors UK. Already known on the SLAM circuit, this anthology marks these 5 poets' debut on the children's literature landscape and includes the works of Amina Jama (Somali-British poet/Radio 1Xtra's Words First London finalist), Jay Hulme (Transgender performance poet/winner of SLAMbassadors 2015) and Victoria Adukwei Bulley (British-Ghanaian poet, writer, filmmaker and director of Mother Tongues). Are we allowed a favourite? Look out for 'This Poem Is Not About Parakeets'... Age 10-16 , Paperback 95pp

More Info Rising Stars: New Young Voices in Poetry

Quantity:

Rosie Revere, Engineer

by Andrea Beaty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 12899

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2014 "This is the story of Rosie Revere, who dreamed of becoming a great engineer". A gender-role-busting picture book about an inventive girl and an inspirational aunt who shows her that failure isn’t to be feared. Inspired by the fictional World War II character, Rosie the Riveter, a symbol of women’s work during the war. Age 4-7, Hardback 30pp

Quantity:

Rhythm and Poetry

Ref: 2825

The throb, clamour and spirit of rap and hip hop are captured in this collection of, in his words, "lyrical pictures." Inspired first by rap and then by Shakespeare, Angelou and Wordsworth, this is Nova's first book and a dazzler at that! Each poem is accompanied by a personal explanatory note from Nova on its inspiration. Nova does a great deal of direct work with young people and you can really feel his audience's influence in his work. Winner of the 2018 CLPE Poetry Award (Centre for Literacy in Primary Education). Age 10+, Paperback 96pp

Quantity:

Sofia Valdez, Future Prez

by Andrea Beaty
illustrated by David Roberts

Ref: 16018

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

Quantity:

Super Duper You

Ref: 16141

"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

Quantity:

Together We Can!

by Caryl Hart
illustrated by Ali Pye

Ref: 16001

"It's cool to be kind...saying sorry makes things better...happy cupcakes!". A giddily cheerful book about positive, healthy friendships from making friends to staying friends, from reaching out to the isolated to scratching your mate's ear for them...! A nice range of ethnicities, lots of independent child wheelchair users and some rarer disability images: children in hearing aid headbands and eye patches and children signing. 'A lovely book- lots of visual stimulation- brilliant illustrations with lots of opportunity to develop additional vocabulary and conversation in addition to the main message' (Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, LL reviewer). Wraparound celebratory end pages! Paperback 26pp, Age 3-6

Quantity:

To Market! To Market!

by Anushka Ravishankar
illustrated by Emanuele Scanziani

Ref: 12823

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

Quantity:

Thinker: My Puppy Poet and Me

by Eloise Greenfield
illustrated by Ehsan Abdollahi

Ref: 15869

"I'm deep and I'm a poet", barks Thinker, a puppy brought into the home of another budding poet, word-music maker Jace. And so begins an energetic exchange of rhythms and verse between a 7-year-old and his pet. Recipient of the 2018 Coretta Scott King-Virginia Hamilton Award for Lifetime Achievement, the 90-year-old poet Greenfield is on fine form (this is the first time she has been published in the UK). A smart tale in verse, with wispy yet bold paper-tissue collages from illustrated by Iranian artist Abdollahi. Highly Commended in the CLiPPA CLPE Poetry Award 2019. Age 7-11, Hardback 29pp

Quantity:

Troll Stinks

by Jeanne Willis
illustrated by Tony Ross

Ref: 15654

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

Quantity:

12 Days of Christmas or Grandma is Overly Generous

Ref: 16518

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

Quantity:

The Undefeated

by Kwame Alexander
illustrated by Kadir Nelson

Ref: 15988

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

Quantity:

Vanishing Trick

Ref: 14610

A stunning collection of verse which embraces a range of ideas and feelings so relevant to children's lives- the Year 6 Disco, first love, bullies, geometry lessons and... vowel movements! Accompanied by Asquith's trademark, hilarious, cartoon illustrations. Wise, tender, comic and always very contemporary. On one page a tidy slice of structured verse will encourage the reader to be gently contemplative; on the next, a mini-storm of rhyme will deliver a punch of laughter. Special mention for the brilliant 'Mohammed and the Whale': "Mohammed, of number 42 Cranmore Gardens, outside Crewe had a wish he knew would make him glad, and every night he told his dad: 'Dad, I've GOT to learn to sail.' 'Why?' 'I've got to meet a whale'". Great for schools with its engaging themes and explorations of different poetic forms. Perfect for home- Asquith excels at spotting all of the things which tickle as well as worry children and then soothing them, bolstering them and, most of all, laughing with them. Age 7-10, Paperback 103pp

Quantity:

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: 15071

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

Quantity:

What the Jackdaw Saw

by Julia Donaldson
illustrated by Nick Sharratt

Ref: 13815

A lively jackdaw swoops over different landscapes-sea, woodland, fields and town- inviting all sorts of related animals-octopi, piglets and ferrets- to his party...but no one seems to understand him! What's going on? A clever rhyming, rhythmic book about friendship, with some BSL signs to learn along the way! Written by a former Children's Laureate (who herself has a hearing impairment) and with deaf children via the charity Life & Deaf. Comes with a CD which has the story read aloud alongside a British Sign Language video. Age 2-5, Paperback 26pp

Quantity:

Where Zebras Go

Ref: 2842

A debut solo collection by a Yorkshire-born poet and artist. Shortlisted for the 2018 CLPE Poetry Award (Centre for Literacy in Primary Education). Hardy-Dawson leaps across topics, voices and poetic forms, including wonderful shape poems: 'How To Score A Penalty' is written as an 'S' and then drawn out into a triumphant 'SHOOT!'; 'Making Tigers' uses different fonts and then stretches and squeezes the text to paint a tiger's face. Fairy tales are deliciously reworked- the frog princess, one ugly sister and a mermaid all finally get their turn in the spotlight. Age 8-12, Paperback 95pp

Quantity:

Whose Tools?

by Toni Buzzeo
illustrated by jim Datz

Ref: 14920

For the tool-obsessed toddlers in your life, this satisfyingly chunky boardbook shows a house being built from scratch with every conceivable tool used along the way: a float and chisel for making a smooth cement foundation; saws and levellers to construct the frames; pipe wrenches and cutters for the plumbing system; roller trays and brushes for the final interior décor etc. As the house is built, different professions are introduced, such as carpenters/ roofers/ electricians, with an even representation of women in the roles. A brilliantly interactive book with a rhyming text, chatty questions, board flaps to open out, speech bubbles, highlighted words and a back cover listing all of the 24 tools used! Smashing fun. 'Great story of house being built, introducing appropriate vocabulary. Especially great to see women in active roles' (Maggie, Former EY Adviser, LL reviewer). Age 2-5, Boardbook 16pp

Quantity:

Poetry and Rhymes

Midnight Feasts: Tasty Poems

Poems the wind blew in: Poems for Children

The Proper Way to Meet a Hedgehog and Other How-To Poems

Wain: LGBT reimaginings of Scottish folktales

Cherry Moon Little Poems Big Ideas Mindful of Nature

Midnight Feasts: Tasty Poems

Poems the wind blew in: Poems for Children

The Proper Way to Meet a Hedgehog and Other How-To Poems

Wain: LGBT reimaginings of Scottish folktales

Cherry Moon Little Poems Big Ideas Mindful of Nature

CLiPPA-CLPE Poetry Award Book Pack

CLiPPA-CLPE Poetry Award Book Pack

#Goldilocks: A Hashtag Cautionary Tale

#Goldilocks: A Hashtag Cautionary Tale

Ada Twist, Scientist

Ada Twist, Scientist

A Great Big Cuddle

A Great Big Cuddle

Bathe the Cat

Bathe the Cat

Best Friends, Busy Friends

Best Friends, Busy Friends

Blankies

Blankies

Books Always Everywhere

Books Always Everywhere

Busy Airport

Busy Airport

Busy Beach

Busy Beach

Chicken Clicking

Chicken Clicking

Cloud Busting

Cloud Busting

The Crow's Tale

The Crow's Tale

Daddy, Papa, and Me

Daddy, Papa, and Me

Dancing in the Rain

Dancing in the Rain

Dare

Dare

The Deepest Breath

The Deepest Breath

Dinosaur Rap

Dinosaur Rap

Do Not Bring Your Dragon to the Library

Do Not Bring Your Dragon to the Library

Einstein The Girl Who Hated Maths

Einstein The Girl Who Hated Maths

Elephant in My Kitchen

Elephant in My Kitchen

Excuses, Excuses

Excuses, Excuses

Falling Out of the Sky: Poems About Myths & Monsters

Falling Out of the Sky: Poems About Myths & Monsters

Frenchtown Summer

Frenchtown Summer

Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors

Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors

Happy Birthday Madame Chapeau

Happy Birthday Madame Chapeau

Happy to be Me

Happy to be Me

Hello Hello

Hello Hello

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

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

Hot Like Fire and Other Poems

Hot Like Fire and Other Poems

Humpty Dumpty

Humpty Dumpty

I Could Be, You Could Be

I Could Be, You Could Be

I Know A Lot!

I Know A Lot!

I Like Bees, I Don't Like Honey!

I Like Bees, I Don't Like Honey!

Jack and the Flumflum Tree