< Back Allison Hill Lolly the Left Out Lobster Will Lolly the Lobster find her way home? There is a big storm in the ocean and Lolly the Lobster is scooped up by the waves. She is whisked around in the turbulent sea, before being washed up on shore. Lolly finds herself in a strange forest. She is lost, alone and very frightened. Lolly finds a house and meets a squirrel, but when she asks the squirrel for help, he runs away. She meets a turkey and explains she is lost, but the turkey will not help her either. Just when Lolly has given up hope of seeing her mom again, she meets a pack of dogs. At first Lolly is scared of the strange creatures, but the dogs are fun, friendly and offer to help her. The dogs – Billie, Alex, Ruby, Luna, and Izzy – help Lolly back to the ocean, where she is finally reunited with her family. Lolly the Left Out Lobster by author Allison Hill is a charming and thoughtful, illustrated picture book for younger children about an adorable little lobster who finds herself lost in a forest. But when Lolly asks for help, the other forest creatures are wary and scared of her. They have never met a lobster before, and she looks different from anything they have ever seen. When a pack of friendly dogs come to the rescue, the other forest creatures soon realise Lolly is not so scary after all. The different creatures put aside their differences and become good friends. The book teaches young children about diversity, and the importance of showing kindness and accepting others just the way they are. A great resource for parents and educators to gently introduce young children to these complex topics. Lolly’s journey from isolation to acceptance and belonging is one that many children will relate to. The illustrations by Sandie Sonke are super-sweet, vibrant and full of character. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A charming and thoughtful picture book, with an unusual but adorable protagonist, and a powerful message about diversity and inclusion. Purchase here

< Back Jacqueline Crann Being Different Is The New Cool Maddie learns to accept and celebrate her differences. A little girl named Maddie was born with a birthmark on her face and a white streak in her hair. Maddie’s unique features make her stand out, and sometimes people stare at her. Maddie loves to dance, but when she goes to dance class, she wears a hat to cover her head and hair, to avoid people asking questions or saying mean things. One day, when practising her dance routine, her hat falls off her head and onto the floor. Some of the children start laughing. The dance teacher, Miss Cherry, explains that everyone is different and the importance of treating people with kindness and respect. Miss Cherry reassures Maddie that her birthmark and hair streak make her cool and unique, and she should be proud of herself. When Maddie’s baby sister is born, Maddie discovers she has the same birthmark as herself. Maddie promises to teach her baby sister that being different is the new cool. Being Different Is the New Cool is an inspiring picture book for young readers by author Jacqueline Crann. The book follows a little girl named Maddie who has a condition called Poliosis, which causes a streak of her hair to turn white. At first, Maddie worries about what others will say and wears a hat to hide her hair, but with support and reassurance from her dance teacher, she soon learns to accept and embrace her difference. The arrival of her new baby sister also makes Maddie more determined to celebrate peoples’ unique qualities and attributes. The book is an excellent resource for parents and educators to open up discussion about diversity and self-acceptance with young readers. Young readers will learn the importance of equality, diversity, and inclusion, and of accepting people just the way they are. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An inspiring picture book for young readers, and a wonderful celebration of diversity. Purchase here

< Back Brenda Do It's Okay Not to Know Author Brenda Do encourages the development of positive learning mindsets in young children It's Okay Not to Know, by author Brenda Do, is a picture book that shows that it is okay not to know something, to have an uh-oh moment, or to make a mistake. It explains that it might be easy to feel down when something doesn’t quite go according to plan. But any challenge, no matter how big or small, is a great opportunity to learn something new, and try new things. It shows that learning new things makes you feel good, and encourages further exploration and discovery. It is like opening a surprise present and finding a special gift. It shows that it is also great to be able to help someone when they do not know something, and help them find the answers they do not know. This is a sweet and charming picture book by author Brenda Do. In essence, this story is about acknowledging and learning from failure, and using every experience as an opportunity to learn, grow and develop. Told in simple language, with two sweet characters, this book introduces younger children to the concept of positive learning mindsets in a fun and engaging way. It will provide reassurance to younger readers that it is okay not to know something or to make a mistake. It will help children develop confidence, self-belief and resilience, and will support the development of positive mindsets and learning habits for life. The illustrations by C.S Fritz are cute and colourful, and full of fun. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and charming picture book that will help children develop confidence, self-belief and resilience. Purchase here

< Back Deborah Wade Always In Your Heart Always In Your Heart is a picture book for younger children exploring grief and loss, by author Deborah Wade. Always in Your Heart, written by Deb Wade and illustrated by Tim McGee, is a deeply moving children’s picture book about love, loss, and grief. It follows a number of families with children and their experiences of losing a treasured loved one. The children miss their loved ones deeply, and recall precious memories of cherished times they have spent together. The book encourages children to think about and visualise their loved ones and to remember the good times – the hugs and kisses, singing silly songs, reading stories together, and outdoor adventures, fishing and feeding the birds. It also shows children that it is okay to miss their loved ones. That it is okay to cry and be sad. That it is okay not to be okay. The book is a great resource for families who have experienced the loss of loved one, or for those who want to open up conversations about death and grief. With supporting questions for the reader, the book will encourage parents, carers, and children to talk about their own grief, and to discuss their thoughts, emotions, and memories of those who have sadly passed. Beautifully simple illustrations by Tim McGee capture the love, sadness, and sentiment perfectly. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A deeply moving picture book for younger children, exploring the important topics of love, loss and grief’. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Marie Nichols We're Going to the Dinosaur Forest Bracken loves playing outside with his friends. But more than anything, he loves playing with his grandmother, Gram. One day when Gram comes to visit, they decide to go to the Dinosaur Forest. As they walk through the forest together, they stomp their feet and roar like dinosaurs. They climb up a big hill and search for dinosaurs, but there are none to be found. They continue their search and discover a stegosaurus. Gram is scared and freezes on the spot, but luckily they find a big tree to hide behind. They climb up an even bigger hill and find a triceratops. They hide behind another tree, as the triceratops strolls by. While Gram is scared and wants to go home, Bracken is keen to find a T-Rex. Will Bracken and Gram find a T-Rex? And will they make it out of the Dinosaur Forest safely? We're Going to the Dinosaur Forest is an illustrated picture book by author Marie Nichols. This is a fun and engaging story for young readers, that beautifully captures the special bond between a little boy and his grandmother. With a dinosaur themed adventure in the forest, this book promotes imaginative play and celebrates intergenerational relationships. The illustrations by Penny Weber are vibrant and full of life, and capture the warmth and love between grandparent and grandchild beautifully. This is a great read-together book, and I’m sure grandparents everywhere will enjoy sharing this book with their grandchildren. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A roaring, dino-mite adventure, where an ordinary forest turns into a Jurassic jungle. Purchase here

< Back Anna Finch Mellie the Mermaid: Is NOT Scared of ANYTHING Is there anything that will scare Mellie the Mermaid? Mellie the Mermaid is not scared of anything. Not little fish that bite and snap. Or giant clams that clap and trap. Mellie’s mum and dad warn her of the dangers in the sea, the creatures that might sting and bite, or strike and burn. They ask her to be careful when she is on her own exploring the ocean. Mellie is not deterred and ventures out into the deep, deep blue ocean to explore an old shipwreck. She meets a snappy, clappy clam, a bright blue octopus, a whale, a seal, an eel, and a turtle. No, Mellie is still not scared. But as she dives into the shipwreck, she meets a big, toothy shark. Mellie flees as fast as she can and does not stop swish, swish, swishing until she gets all the way home. Mellie realises maybe there are some things she is scared of after all! Mellie the Mermaid is a beautifully illustrated picture book by author Anna Finch about a confident, courageous and adventurous little mermaid who fears nothing. This is a charming and amusing picture book for younger children, featuring magnificent mermaids in glorious underwater scenes. Mellie is a cute and adorable mermaid character, who will delight younger readers. The book is funny and entertaining, but it also teaches children the importance of personal safety. The illustrations by Wathmi de Zoysa are magnificent. I particularly liked the characterisation of the mermaids and the sea creatures, and the underwater colour palette with hues of blue and purple. This is a great book for pre-schoolers and was a joy to read. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming and amusing picture book for younger children, featuring magnificent mermaids in glorious underwater scenes. Purchase here

< Back Stefanie Jubert Stressed Little Bun Bun Takes a Deep Breath Stressed Little Bun Bun Takes a Deep Breath is a beautifully crafted children's book by Stefanie Jubert that explores childhood anxiety and stress. The story follows Little Bun Bun, a rabbit who is plagued by worries and feels overshadowed by his adventurous and fearless brother, Brave Mighty Bun Bun. The narrative is relatable for children who may feel anxious or left behind when others seem more confident. As Brave Mighty Bun Bun embarks on a daring adventure, Little Bun Bun is left to confront his fears alone. The story cleverly introduces various mindfulness and breathing techniques—such as Bunny Breathing, Wave Breathing, Bumble Bee Breathing, Choo Choo Breathing, and Dragon Breathing—each tailored to help Little Bun Bun (and the reader) manage specific moments of anxiety. The playful instructions are easy for children to follow and can be practiced in real-life situations, making the book a valuable tool for emotional regulation. Each challenge that Little Bun Bun faces, serves as an opportunity to introduce a new coping strategy. This not only normalizes feelings of fear and anxiety but also empowers children with practical skills to manage them. The story concludes with a message of growth and resilience, as Little Bun Bun discovers his own strength and returns home with the greatest treasure: newfound confidence and calm. Amber Orozco's illustrations are vibrant and engaging, perfectly complementing the text, and bringing the characters' emotions to life. The artwork also supports the breathing exercises, helping children visualize and participate in the calming techniques. The book is an excellent resource for parents, educators, and therapists seeking to support children's emotional well-being. Its combination of engaging storytelling, practical mindfulness exercises, and charming illustrations makes it both enjoyable and impactful. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A wonderful book and resource for helping children navigate their own emotions and build lifelong coping skills. Purchase here

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Ingefaer vod Renku Aere Warrior < Back Rene Vecka Ingefaer vod Renku Aere Warrior Ingefaer vod Renku: Ære Warrior is a standout young adult fantasy novel that skillfully blends the rigors of military academy life with a deeply personal journey of growth, justice, and resilience. Set in the Mid Dreki Realm before the return of magic, the story follows Ingefaer, a determined and resourceful young woman, as she strives to break through cultural norms and become an Ære Warrior—a rare feat for women in her world. The novel excels in its realistic depiction of military training. Combat scenes are grounded in tactical intelligence and physical realism, focusing on footwork, balance, and teamwork rather than exaggerated fantasy heroics. For example, Ingefaer's swordplay is described with attention to practical technique, and the narrative often pauses for after-action critiques, reinforcing the importance of learning and leadership. Ingefaer's journey from a grieving, vengeful orphan to a compassionate and clever leader is both believable and inspiring. The supporting cast—such as the wise archer Hjorn and the determined teammate Knut—are given depth, with their own strengths and vulnerabilities. The camaraderie and rivalries among cadets are nuanced, reflecting real group dynamics under pressure. The book tackles issues of gender discrimination head-on. Ingefaer's struggle to be accepted as a female officer candidate is met with institutional resistance and personal sabotage, culminating in a dramatic trial that exposes systemic bias. The narrative ultimately champions justice over vengeance, as Ingefaer learns to seek lawful redress rather than personal retribution for her parents' deaths. The story is structured around a series of escalating trials—physical, intellectual, and moral—that keep the reader invested. The academy's competitive environment, with its shifting alliances and high stakes, provides a compelling backdrop for Ingefaer's growth. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A story of courage, compassion, and cleverness, which is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Purchase here

< Back Ian Slatter The Jellybean Detective Club Book blurb... Can you solve all 10 cases? Max and Maisie Morse might seem like ordinary 11 year olds, but to their friends, family and the residents of Chadmouth they are The Jellybean Detective Club. Liars, cheats, con-artists and thieves beware - The Jellybean Detective Club is on the case. Featuring 10 short stories for you to solve, with the solutions at the end of the book, join Max and Maisie as they pit their wits against: * The Case of the Hideous Vase * The Case of the Missing Test Paper * The Case of the E-Bike Break-In * The Case of the Stolen Snowboard * The Case of the Artist’s Gift * The Case of the Very Cross Coach * The Case of the Slippery Snake * The Case of the Supermega Breakfast Challenge * The Case of the Chadmouth Panther * The Case of the Terrible Tagger. With a short-story format that will appeal to reluctant readers, The Jellybean Detective Club's puzzle element also encourages youngsters to think for themselves whilst enjoying the stories. Perfect for fans of middle grade mystery books. Purchase here

Wren and the Tarnished Tiger < Back E.M. Leander Wren and the Tarnished Tiger Two young people, lost in their world, find a magical connection. A young orphan, Wren, is the lighthouse keeper in a town called Split, in the country of Aclines. When war breaks out with neighbouring Ocron, Wren is isolated from the town in the lighthouse where she lives and works. Wren has a unique ability to communicate and connect with animals, and she is cast out by the townsfolk who consider her strange. When an injured Tiger arrives at the lighthouse, Wren shelters the tiger and treats his wounds. Split is defeated in the war by Ocron, and the tiger returns back to the wild. But word soon gets out that Wren can control animals, and she is approached by an Ocronian from the ‘School of the Silver Flame,’ who believes she is a Mage. Mage’s have magical powers that can be used to control the natural elements - wind, earth, fire, and water. Wren leaves her home in Split and travels to the school, where she is manacled until she learns how to control her magic. Aris, a handsome and arrogant young man, is a Shield, an animal shifter who can shift from human to animal form. Shields are trained from childhood to safeguard and protect a Mage. A Mage and a Shield are paired and bonded together for life. Aris is grieving the loss of his Mage and best friend, Stefan, and has not shifted into his animal form since his death. As Aris goes in search of another Mage, he meets Wren, and they discover they have a magical connection. But are Aris and Wren compatible to form a bonded pair? Will Wren ever learn to control her magic, and be free of her shackles? And will she ever see her tarnished tiger again? Wren and the Tarnished Tiger is the first book in the Game of Gods series by E.M. Leander. T his is a fantastic fantasy fiction novel for young adult readers, written in a dual narrative and alternating between Wren and Aris’s point of view. The novel follows Wren’s journey as she is uprooted from her home and thrust into a world of magic, and Aris’s journey as he goes in search of a new Mage, following the tragic death of his best friend. This is a thrilling, fast paced novel, with two charming characters, and a mesmerising world full of magic, drama, and intrigue. With epic battle scenes, animal magic, and a beautiful romance, this is a fantastic, fantasy fiction novel, not to be missed. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fantastic fantasy fiction novel for young adult readers, with epic battle scenes, animal magic, and a beautiful romance. Purchase here