Children’s New Titles November 2012 (arrived in October)

• Audio Visual
• Into Reading
• Non-Fiction
• Older Fiction
• Picture Books
• Younger Fiction

Audio Visual

The ant and the grasshopper and other stories [sound recording], Aesop.

The emperor's new clothes and other fairy tales [sound recording], Hans Christian Andersen.

Lenny the wonder dog [videorecording], directed by Juan A. Mas.

Something is rotten in the town of Newville. There is evil brewing after a break-in at the lab of eccentric scientist Dr. Island. He had been working on his greatest invention to date, a microchip that could instantly train dogs! But as the police sift through the debris, it is revealed that the doctor's own dog, Lenny, has mysteriously disappeared. Having escaped the clutches of the intruders, Lenny teams up with young schoolboy Zach Dylan.

Twinkle twinkle, little star [sound recording] : bedtime songs and lullabies for children.

Cosmic custard [sound recording], R.L. Asquith.

Flowkwee can't wait to take his Earthling friend, Susan, to planet Faa. He wants to introduce her to all his mums and dads and show her that four heads are always better than one. But Susan hasn't got an intergalactic passport and so she's refused entry.

Hollow Earth [sound recording], John & Carole Barrowman.

Possessing extraordinary powers, including the ability to bring artwork to life, twelve-year-old twins Matt and Emily are sought by villains trying to access the terrors of Hollow Earth, a place where demons and mythological beasts lie trapped for eternity.

The Blossoms and the Green Phantom [sound recording], Betsy Byars.

Disasters befall the Blossom family as Pap falls into a dumpster and can't get out, Junior tries desperately to make a success of his secret invention, and Vern dreads letting a new friend meet his unusual family.

Put a sock in it, Percy! [sound recording], Judy Corbalis.

Ever heard of a self-making bed, a waterproof banana peeler, or a talking cat? No? Then meet Mr and Mrs Fooby-Lartil (inventors extraordinaire) and their cat, Percy. Percy is wonderful at housework, excellent at scrumping apples and brilliant at humiliating the Grimbotts next door! In fact, life would have gone on very happily for them all if only Percy hadn't eaten Mr Fooby-Lartil's New-All-Purpose-Marvellous-Body-Safe-Stick-Anything-Anywhere-Anytime-GLUE. Be warned, never give it to YOUR cats!

The Spook's mistake [sound recording], Joseph Delaney.

Tom is sent far north by his master to be trained by Bill Arkwright, another Spook. But when the Fiend sends his own daughter, the powerful water witch Morwena, to destroy Tom, Arkwright makes an error of judgement and Tom finds himself facing his enemies alone. What is the Spook's mistake, the consequences of which might give victory to the dark?

A greyhound of a girl [sound recording], Roddy Doyle.

12 year old Mary's beloved grandmother is near the end of her life. Letting go is hard - until Granny's long-dead mammy appears at Mary's door, returning to help her dying daughter say goodbye. But first she needs someone to drive them all on a visit to the past.

Redwall. Book three, The warrior [sound recording], Brian Jacques.

The invaders are at the gates, and Redwall's defences seem no match against a giant battering ram. The final battle is being fought - can Matthias retrieve Martin’s sword from the lair of Asmodeus the serpent, before it is too late?

The time-travelling cat and the great Victorian stink [sound recording], Julia Jarman.

Topher's amazing cat, Ka, has time-travelled again; she has left him the clue: following her, Topher finds himself in Victorian London where disease is rife and the Thames is clogged with stinking sewage! Topher discovers a plot to kill Joseph Bazalgette, the man who is trying to save the city. Determined to foil it, Topher must first escape from an arch-criminal and his den of thieves.

The Considine curse [sound recording], Gareth P. Jones.

Mariel returns to England for her grandmother's funeral. It is the first time she has been back since she emigrated with her mother as a baby, and it is the beginning of the uncovering of some really extraordinary truths about the Considine family. Why did Mariel's mum argue with Grandma all those years ago? Why does Amelia wear so much perfume? Why is there a very large cat flap in Louvre House? Why does Gerald seem scared of his brother's appetite? Did Grandma Considine really break her neck falling down the stairs? And most importantly, what is the dark secret that lies at the heart of the family?

Emil and the three twins [sound recording], Erich Kastner.

While on vacation at a seaside resort, Emil and his friends help a young acrobat who has grown too big to work in his father's acrobatic act. At the same time, Emil must come to terms with his beloved mother's decision to re-marry.

The water babies [sound recording], Charles Kingsley.

A young chimney sweep is lured into the river and lives with the water fairies.

Charlie Bone and the wilderness wolf [sound recording], Jenny Nimmo.

Charlie Bone has finally found his father, but he's disappeared again. However, this time Charlie knows where he is - on a second honeymoon with his mother. But there's no time to miss them, for there's a strange salty mist in the air, and chilling howls in the night. And someone has been searching Charlie's house. What are they looking for?

Pegasus and the new Olympians [sound recording], Kate O'Hearn.

When news reaches Olympus that a Pegasus lookalike has been spotted in the human world, Emily and her friends fly back to Earth to investigate. Their new mission takes them from Area 51 to Las Vegas where they discover a sinister conspiracy…

Looking for Billie [sound recording], Rosie Rushton.

How far would you go to find your real mum? Billie Gold heard a woman on a train say that she's "looking for Billie". She must be her mum! But how will Billie ever get to talk to her when everything keeps getting in the way?

Down with Stinkyhogs! [sound recording], Paul Stewart & Chris Riddell.

Joe was just trying to build a flat-pack wardrobe when he fell through a portal and landed in Muddle Earth. That might not have been too bad, except that his sulky older sister was with him when it happened. Muddle Earth is crazy enough without her being there too. But Joe doesn't have time to be cross. Muddle Earth needs him - to play broomball. For unless Stinkyhogs School of Wizardry triumphs in the forthcoming tournament, it will be closed! Joe doesn't want to let Randalf the wizard down, so it's time to come up with a plan.

The poodle problem [sound recording], Anna Wilson.

Something very strange is going on in the cosy village of Crumbly-under-Edge! Join Pooch Parlour regulars Dash the dachshund and his human friend Pippa Peppercorn as they uncover a dastardly plot involving oodles of snooty poodles.

How to get the friends you want by Peony Pinker [sound recording], Jenny Alexander.

Peony Pinker is friends with Abina, Sasha and Tammy (the coolest girls in class) and Pookie the pot-bellied pig. But not with Toby and Jess (her best friends before); Becky (from the kennels) and Mum (not getting it). Something has gone wrong with Peony's friendships. Can she find what, and put it right?

The secret life of Ms Wiz [sound recording], Terence Blackler.

For the first time ever, Ms Wiz reveals the unimaginable secrets of her life beyond St Barnabas School. Travelling a million miles outside the known universe, she returns with Jack, Podge and Caroline to the Kingdom of Paranormal Magic.

Paddington here and now [sound recording], Michael Bond.

Paddington Bear always manages to find himself in tricky situations, sometimes extraordinary situations. Since arriving from his native Peru after an earthquake Paddington has always felt at home with the Brown family. When a mysterious visiitor arrives, it is time for Paddington to decide where 'home' really is.

Isabella the butterfly sister [sound recording], Amber Castle.

Gwen and Flora must find Isabella the Butterfly Sister. But with wolves under Morgana's magical control stalking them through the forest, will the girls be able to find Isabella and return her safely to Avalon?

The carnivore curse [sound recording], Steve Cole.

Tegg's new mission is to save a carnivore king from deadly space mumps. If the king can't be cured, his evil nephew will start a terrible war! The astrosaurs race to the rescue with a special doctor - but are soon trapped in a palace of peril. With enemies all around and a mad meat-chomping monster on the loose, can Teggs escape the heart-stopping horror of the Carnivore Curse?

The claws of Christmas [sound recording], Steve Cole.

The astrosaurs are on their way home for Christmas when they encounter millions of Christmas presents flying through space. Teggs and his crew are ordered to take the presents back to Santa Claus and his elfosaurus.

Puss in boots [sound recording], Chris Emmett.

When young Tom falls in love with the most beautiful girl in the world, he dreams of winning her heart. But Tom is poverty-stricken, and his lady love is Princess Rose Petal. Then a magic sunbeam transforms his cat into clever, cunning Puss in Boots… Can Puss help Tom defeat Baron Skinflint and his greedy ogre and win the princess's heart.

Earwig and the witch [sound recording], Diana Wyne Jones.

Earwig has been at the orphanage ever since she was a baby. That's just how she likes it. She has her best friend, Custard, and everyone always does exactly what Earwig wants. She never wants to leave, so she makes sure no one ever picks her. Then a very strange couple comes to the orphanage. They try to make themselves look ordinary. But Earwig knows they are not, not in the least. And they choose her, out of all the other children. Earwig could be in for quite an unpleasant surprise. But so could the very strange couple.

The horrible story and others [sound recording], Margaret Mahy.

Monty is allergic to ghosts: if there's one around he sneezes. That's how he discovers Lulu haunting an old vintage car at the bottom of the garden. And as soon as Monty sets foot in the Brinsley Codd School for Sensible Thought, he knows it's haunted.

The butterfly tiara [sound recording], Gwyneth Rees.

Ava puts on a beautiful trapeze outfit with an amazing butterfly tiara and is transported to a travelling circus. Ava loves the bright lights and the beautiful costumes, but she's worried about a baby elephant that is being trained to perform tricks.

Roodica the Rude and the famous flea trick [sound recording], Margaret Ryan.

Long ago, when wolves and bears roamed the land, and before underpants had been invented, the Romans conquered Britain. The Romans built fine houses and straight roads, and encouraged the Celts to take baths. But not everyone liked the Romans. Lots of people fought back, and none more stubbornly than Queen Goodica's youngest daughter Roodica the Rude!

Penguin pandemonium [sound recording], Jeanne Willis.

Rory and his penguin pals are in a panic! Their zoo might have to close if more people don't come to visit. So when the zookeeper installs penguin-cam, the determined birds decide to put on a talent show, starring a very daring stunt team. Will the penguins' performance save the zoo or will it just be pandemonium?

Into Reading

Rabbit & Robot : the sleepover, Cece Bell.

Rabbit is excited about the sleepover he has carefully planned for his friend Robot, but Robot has some different ideas about how things should

At the water hole, Jane Clarke ; illustrated by Woody Fox.

Zebra is longing for a cool drink at the water hole, but can he escape both Lion and Crocodile! The Tiddlers series features fun stories with a word count of fewer than 50 words for children who are just starting to read. A word list at the beginning of the story allows for a quick check of the reader's ability to read and understand words before reading, and a puzzle at the end of the story encourages re-reading for pleasure.

Rory's robot, Elizabeth Dale ; illustrated by Andy Elkerton.

Rory decides to make a robot, but he also makes a lot of mess. Mum is not happy when she finds out!

Splash!, Damian Harvey ; illustrated by Sam Hearn.

Rain is not fun until you've got puddles to spash in! But they can be messy too so it's time for a bath, plus plenty of bubbles!

Penny and her doll, Kevin Henkes.

Penny instantly loves the doll her grandmother sends her, but finding the perfect name for her is a challenge.

Pig has a plan, Ethan Long.

Pig is trying to take a nap, but his friends are making all kinds of noise.

Sick day, David McPhail.

When Boy is sick, his friends Dog and Bird try to help him feel better.

Mr. Putter & Tabby dance the dance, Cynthia Rylant ; illustrated by Arthur Howard.

Reluctantly, Mr. Putter and his cat, Tabby, agree to go ballroom dancing with Mrs. Teaberry and her dog, Zeke.

Miaow miaow bow wow, Francesca Simon ; illustrated by Emily Bolam.

Dizzy the dog loves to sing, but the mean old Alley Cats won't let him join their chorus. But what do cats know about singing anyway? It's time to show them just what the dogs can do! Early Readers are stepping stones from picture books to reading books. A blue Early Reader is perfect for sharing and reading together. A red Early Reader is the next step on your reading journey.

Moody Margaret casts a spell, Francesca Simon ; illustrated by Tony Ross.

Horrid Henry is a master hypnotist, and he's delighted when he puts Moody Margaret under his spell. But will she really do whatever he asks? Full colour illustrations from the fabulous Tony Ross on every page! Early Readers are stepping stones from picture books to reading books. A blue Early Reader is perfect for sharing and reading together. A red Early Reader is the next step on your reading journey.

The haunted house of Buffin Street, Francesca Simon ; illustrated by Emily Bolam.

When Fang and Honey's people decide to move out of Buffin Street, everyone is very upset. What can they do to stop them? Then Millie the cat has a clever idea… Full colour illustrations on every page in this Early Reader story from the author of Horrid Henry. Early Readers are stepping stones from picture books to reading books. A blue Early Reader is perfect for sharing and reading together. A red Early Reader is the next step on your reading journey.

Unusual day, Sandi Toksvig ; illustrated by Georgien Overwater.

When Jessica brings her granny into school for 'Unusual Day' Miss Johnson thinks she's got muddled up with 'Family Day'. Her granny may be wearing a tracksuit and trainers, but she still looks like a fairly ordinary granny. However, when 'Unusual Day' is disrupted by a fire next door, everybody discovers just how unusual Jessica's granny is.

Let's go for a drive!, Mo Willems.

Elephant Gerald and Piggie want to go for a drive, but as Gerald thinks of one thing after another that they will have to take along, they come to realize that they lack the most important thing of all.

Non-Fiction

Multicultural storytime magic, Kathy MacMillan and Christine Kirker.

Provides a generous sampling of art and craft ideas, songs, and action rhymes, designed to help veteran librarians refresh and enliven ongoing programs, while providing novice storytime planners what they need to get started.

Girl! : the ultimate guide to being you, Anna Barnes ; illustrated by Catherine Campbell.

Do you sometimes feel like Ella? Then open this book! It has heaps of ideas to help you make and grow things, manage friendships and your emotions, glimpse life from different girls' perspectives, and find out about stuff happening on the other side of the world and in your own backyard. Young author and blogger Anna Barnes doesn't have all the answers (she wishes!) but like the best big sister, she shares some of her experiences, dreams and funny stories; plus thoughts from girls like you. Discover what makes you tick and how to make the most of who your are in this ultimate how-to guide for modern girls.

Surf lifesavers, Debbie and Brendan Gallagher.

This book for 5-8 year olds explores the roles and responsibilities, daily activities, equipment, training and important personal qualities that a surf lifesaver requires to do their job. It is part of a series inspired by people who demonstrate amazing contributions and commitment to our communities and aims to foster respect and understanding for those that help and protect us. Young students are encouraged to think about their own rights and responsibilities, and how they can be an 'everyday hero'.

Police officers, Debbie and Brendan Gallagher.

This book for 5-8 year olds explores the roles and responsibilities, daily activities, equipment, training and important personal qualities that a police officer requires to do their job. It is part of a series inspired by people who demonstrate amazing contributions and commitment to our communities and aims to foster respect and understanding for those that help and protect us. Young students are encouraged to think about their own rights and responsibilities, and how they can be an 'everyday hero'.

Search & rescue workers, Debbie and Brendan Gallagher.

This book for 5-8 year olds explores the roles and responsibilities, daily activities, equipment, training and important personal qualities that a search and rescue worker requires to do their job. It is part of a series inspired by people who demonstrate amazing contributions and commitment to our communities and aims to foster respect and understanding for those that help and protect us. Young students are encouraged to think about their own rights and responsibilities, and how they can be an 'everyday hero'.

Firefighters, Debbie and Brendan Gallagher.

This book for 5-8 year olds explores the roles and responsibilities, daily activities, equipment, training and important personal qualities that a firefighter requires to do their job. It is part of a series inspired by people who demonstrate amazing contributions and commitment to our communities and aims to foster respect and understanding for those that help and protect us. Young students are encouraged to think about their own rights and responsibilities, and how they can be an 'everyday hero'.

The fairy ring, or, Elsie and Frances fool the world, Mary Losure.

Relates the story of two early-twentieth-century cousins who believed they saw real fairies, created photographs using paper cutouts when they were teased by adult family members, and inadvertently drew the attention of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, a fellow believer.

Favourite nursery rhymes, [illustrations by Mark Airs … [et al.]].

This beautiful hardback "Ladybird" treasury of favourite nursery rhymes is a beautifully illustrated introduction to many well-loved rhymes that are perfect for sharing with young children from 3+. With more than 100 rhymes including favourites such as "Three Blind Mice", "The Owl and the Pussy-cat", "Humpty Dumpty" and "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes", there is a rhyme for everyone in this collection of animal, action, story, food, counting and bedtime rhymes.

The McElderry book of Mother Goose : revered and rare rhymes, compiled and illustrated by Petra Mathers.

An illustrated collection of Mother Goose nursery rhymes, including well-known ones such as "Hey Diddle Diddle" and "The Queen of Hearts" and less familiar ones such as "Mother May I Go and Swim" and "Ten Little Penguins."

Nursery rhymes, [illustrations by Jacqueline East … [et al.].

Over 100 rhymes to enjoy together presented in this beautifully illustrated gilt-edged padded hardcover.

Weird science : mad marvels from the way-out world, Matt Lake and Randy Fairbanks.

From "Zany Zoology" to "Medical Marvels & Mishaps," the creators of Weird U.S. scout out wonders — mostly of the astonishing or gross-out sort — from scientific fields.

The great divide, Suzanne Slade ; illustrated by Erin E. Hunter.

Focuses on the mathematical skill of division, using different kinds of animal groups like bales (turtles), smacks (jellyfish), and mobs (wallabies)

Seeing symmetry, written and illustrated by Loreen Leedy.

An assortment of dozens of diverse and colourful examples from quilts to kites to cupcakes invites the reader to discover both line and rotational symmetry.

The mighty Mars rovers : the incredible adventures of Spirit and Opportunity, Elizabeth Rusch.

The story of the two robot vehicles, Spirit and Opportunity, that were sent to explore Mars, lasting far past their projected lives of 3 months and sending back invaluable images of the environmentally hostile planet.

The book of dinosaurs, [written and illustrated by Dynamo Ltd. ; concept by Jo Connor].

The world is full of questions. Now, at last, you can get the answers to 50 of the most mind-boggling of all!

Dinosaurs, [text written by Dan Green ; designed and created by Basher].

Sure, everyone knows about the physical attributes of dinos, but what about personalities to go with those prehistoric proportions? Welcome to this highly memorable one-stop guide to the world of dinosaurs, courtesy of Basher. Join the primeval party and meet terrifying Tyrannosaurus rex, huge Giganotosaurus and tiny Compsognathus. Also includes lots of information from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous Periods, including dinosaur dinners, habitats, and fossil discoveries.

House of Horrors, Nick Arnold & Tony De Saulles.

Get up close and horrible with Horrible Science. Fleas, dust mites and mind-boggling microbes. Horrible Science takes a look under the microscope to see what tiny horrors lurk!

Creep and flutter : the secret world of insects and spiders, Jim Arnosky.

Celebrates the beauty and diversity of hundreds of insects and spiders in an illustrated work that features eight gatefolds depicting butterflies, beetles, spiders, and other insects.

Busy builders, Roxie Munro.

The tiny creatures in this book are amazing builders. Can you guess which builder makes separate chambers for nurseries and even trash? Or which insect’s home looks like cotton candy? Or what kind of insect has ears on its knees? Busy Builders features eight insects, one spider, and an inside look at the unique structures they each build.

City fish, country fish, Mary M. Cerullo ; photographs by Jefffrey L. Rotman.

Compares the fishes from the tropical seas to those in the cold ocean.

Seahorses, Jennifer Keats Curtis ; illustrated by Chad Wallace.

Introduction to the strange world of the sea horse.

Nic Bishop snakes.

Introduces snakes and provides information on their physical characteristics, how they hunt, and why some snakes are poisonous.

Python, Christopher Cheng & [illustrations] Mark Jackson.

It's morning in the bush. Python stirs and slithers out from her shelter. She warms her head and smells the air with her forked tongue. Python is a beautiful snake, but also dangerous - and she is looking for a meal.

Saving Yasha : the incredible true story of an adopted moon bear, Lia Kvatum ; photographs by Liya Pokrovskaya.

Documents the uplifting story of an orphaned bear cub that was discovered in the Russian wilderness and rescued by two young scientists, who then painstakingly raised and trained him and two companion cubs to become wild bears that could survive on their own in the forest.

The human body : closeup, Melissa Keil.

Take a closer look inside the human body. These are the bits that make you work and they might be stranger than you think!

Who am I?, Richard Walker.

Building on fundamental questions about what it means to be human, a thought-provoking exploration of human identity draws on biological, psychological and social sciences to provide coverage of topics ranging from language and DNA studies to anti-aging technologies and how emotions help us to interpret the world.

The book of blood : from legends and leeches to vampires and veins, HP Newquist.

HP Newquist's thrilling volume explores the dark and often fascinating tales about blood, from ancient history to modern science with an occasional side trip to explore the stranger aspects and our relationship to it. Though common among living creatures, blood is anything but ordinary. Without it there would be no fish, nor mammals, and no humans.

Helping kids to eat healthy, written and illustrated by Alan Blomfield.

Uses a story format to encourage healthy eating and to reinforce the importance of good nutrition. Includes recipes.

Eight days gone, Linda McReynolds ; illustrated by Ryan O'Rourke.

Depicts the 1969 Apollo 11 mission when man first walked on the moon.

Robotics : discover the science and technology of the future with 20 projects, Kathy Ceceri ; illustrated by Sam Carbaugh.

"This fun and educational introduction to the exciting field of robotics the science of designing, building, and operating robots gives kids the basic tools for creating their own robots using ordinary craft materials and parts salvaged from recycled toys and other household devices. Early chapters teach budding roboticists how to create working models of robot hands and write pencil and paper computer programs, while later chapters show them how to build robots that move and react to light or touch. A great gateway to getting kids interested in STEM subjects i.e. science, technology, engineering, and math, the activities in this book let kids use all their talents to come up with creative solutions to tricky problems and figure out how things work." Amazon

Gardening projects for kids : 101 ways to get kids outside, dirty, and having fun, Whitney Cohen and John Fisher.

Whitney Cohen and John Fisher draw on years of experience of engaging kids in every phase of gardening, from designing the space to preparing fresh food from the harvest. From their experience with their own kids in the garden and from that of other creative family gardeners, they share projects, activities and recipes for inspiring kids to develop a deep and lasting connection to gardens and the outside world in a window box, a container on a rooftop, or a large garden. Whether you're playing leapfrog over pumpkins, harvesting a feast, cooking up a compost cake or pickling pears, you and your kids will cherish the memories you grow together in a family garden.

We can cook! : kids in the kitchen : learn how to cook with over 100 great recipes : illustrated step by step with 675 photographs, Nancy McDougall.

Encourage the aspiring young cooks in your home to take the lead role in the kitchen and they will soon be whipping up tasty treats time and time again. This bumper book of recipes is the perfect introduction to cooking for children aged 5-12. Brimming with 100 fabulous recipes, chapters cover snacks and light bites, quick-and-easy lunches and suppers, main meals, desserts and drinks, so there really is something for every occasion.

The story of silk : from worm spit to woven scarves, Richard Sobol.

Join author and photographer Richard Sobol as he picks up his camera once more and travels to a small village in Thailand for an in-depth exploration of the story of silk and the labor-intensive process of making it. From nurturing the silkworms to weaving the fabric and photographing the children as they proudly model the finished product, this first-person narrative, illustrated with richly detailed photographs, chronicles the amazing process of creating one of history's most desired textiles.

Batman visual dictionary, written by Daniel Lipkowitz.

Celebrate the action-packed world of LEGO Batman and LEGO DC Super Heroes with all of the vehicles, weapons, locations, gadgets, and minifigures.

What is contemporary art? : a children's guide, Jacky Klein and Suzy Klein.

What is Contemporary Art? is the ideal introduction for children aged eight and over to art made since the 1960s. Featuring artworks from one of the world's leading collections of modern and contemporary art, The Museum of Modern Art in New York, its lively and engaging text introduces the art and ideas to young readers, with background information, fascinating stories and intriguing questions encouraging children to engage directly with the artworks. The full range of contemporary practice is explored, from painting and sculpture to film, photography, performance and installation. Special features include pull-out artist's quotations, ideas and information boxes and 'How Did They Do It?' prompts, directing the reader to useful nuggets of information, and asking questions to enable children to explore their own responses to the artworks. A beguiling book for children and parents, as well as the perfect support for school topic work on art history themes, What is Contemporary Art? invites young readers to understand, enjoy and question some of the most dynamic and exciting art of our times.

Ralph Masiello's Halloween drawing book.

Provides step-by-step instructions for drawing Halloween motifs including pumpkins, ghosts, a black cat, gravestones, a witch, a skeleton, and a haunted mansion.

It's raining, it's pouring!, illustrated by Christine Davenier ; performed by Peter, Paul and Mary.

Intertwines lyrics to various children's songs with an indoor game of hide-and-seek.

If you're happy and you know it, adapted by Anna McQuinn ; illustrated by Sophie Fatus ; sung by Susan Reed.

In this multicultural version of the traditional song, children from cultures all over the world clap their hands, stomp their feet, pat their heads, and much more. The accompanying sing-along CD continues the interactive fun! It includes two full spreads at the end that teach "hello" in thirty-six languages, and the names of the children and their countries of origin. It is illustrated by Sophie Fatus, artist of the best-selling "Barefoot Books" yoga range, including "My Daddy is a Pretzel", "Yoga Pretzels" and "Yoga Planet". It joins Barefoot's popular "Singalong Songs" series which also includes "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush", "The Animal Boogie" and "Driving My Tractor".

The bear went over the mountain, as told and illustrated by Iza Trapani.

In this expanded version of the traditional song, a bear goes exploring near his home in the mountains, using all five senses throughout the four seasons.

Invitation to ballet : a celebration of dance and Degas, Carolyn Vaughan ; works of art by Edgar Degas ; ilustrated by Rachel Isadora.

Balancing on tiptoe, leaping high in the air, stretching their arms and legs into beautiful arabesques, ballerinas seem to float effortlessly across the stage. But to create that illusion, ballet dancers take classes and practice for years. In this Invitation to Ballet, young readers will find out what happens in ballet class, learn about some of the steps and leaps and discover the magic of ballet. Works of art by French impressionist Edgar Degas bring the ballet vividly to life, while illustrations by Rachel Isadora picture modern-day children practicing ballet positions and steps. Complete with a brief story of ballet and biography of Edgar Degas, Invitation to Ballet is sure to delight every child who dreams of one day becoming a ballerina.

1001 monster things to spot, Gillian Doherty ; illustrated and designed by Teri Gower ; additional design by Natacha Goransky and Suzie Harrison ; edited by Anna Milbourne.

Presents a series of picture puzzles in which children are invited to search for monsters and other objects.

When's the Doctor?, [illustrations by Jorge Santillan].

If you enjoyed tracking the Doctor through his alien adventures in Where's the Doctor?, you'll love hunting him and his friends down as he travels through time. Can you spot the Doctor, Rory, Amy and the TARDIS in Ancient Rome, Victorian London and the far future? With loads to find, these incredibly detailed images will keep you searching for hours!

Where's Dogmatix?

Features the loveable Dogmatix and his friends in a variety of fun, action-packed scenes.

When you're a pirate dog : and other pirate poems, Eric Ode, Jim Harris.

A collection of poetry about pirates and their way of life.

The Kane chronicles survival guide, [written by Mary-Jane Knight].

Fans of Rick Riordan will love this on the people, places, gods, and creatures found in the chart-topping Kane Chronicles series. Packed with brand new material including an easy-to-assemble trading card pyramid and full-colour diagrams and maps this deluxe, lavishly illustrated guide teaches readers how to compile secret messages, read hieroglyphics, and recite ancient magic spells. Featuring enough information and extras to satisfy current fans and budding Egyptologists alike, this guide will cast a spell on readers of all ages.

The bite-sized bard presents Shakespeare's seasons, created by Miriam Weiner ; illustrations by Shannon Whitt ; edited by Miriam Weiner & Shannon Whitt.

Presents excerpts from Shakespeare's plays and sonnets that describe the characteristics of the seasons.

The amazing illustrated floodsopedia, Colin Thompson.

Now that they're safely ensconsced in Castle Twilight as the supreme rulers of Transylvania Waters, the Flood family of witches and wizards have decided to share their immense wisdomness, magic and bacon-orientated secrets and history with you even though you are mere pathetic humans. From Winchflat's Wonderful World of Inventions to recipes from Betty's restaurant to digging up (literally) stories about the Floods' obscure relatives, this book will make fans of the Floods giggle, guffaw and chortle for hours. Fully illustrated and full colour throughout, Floodsopedia will improve your life in exciting and dramatic ways you never imagined, unless you imagined bacon, mildew, boils and germs.

Beast quest : the complete book of beasts.

Every hero needs the Book of Beasts! Contained in these pages is everything a Beast Quest fan needs to know about all the known Beasts featured in the series. Gain secret knowledge, learn incredible facts, and study amazing colour pictures. This unique book is a must-have for any Avantian hero!

The complete book of fairies, [Daisy Meadows].

Have you met every one of the Rainbow Magic fairies? If not, now you can! Packed with secret facts and profiles of every fairy in Fairyland, this magical guide contains everything you ever wanted to know about the Rainbow Magic fairies.

A street through time, illustration, Steve Noon.

Take a breathtaking journey through time as a street evolves from a camp of nomadic hunter-gatherers to the present day.

Fantastic Mr Dahl, Michael Rosen ; [illustrated by Quentin Blake].

Just how did Roald Dahl get into writing? Where did he get his ideas from? What ingredients in his life turned him into the kind of writer he was? Michael Rosen - poet, broadcaster and former Children's Laureate, comes up with some of the answers to these key questions in his lively biography of the world's Number 1 storyteller. Full of stories and funny anecdotes from Roald Dahl's school days and family life, Michael Rosen's fascinating observations creates a vivid picture of one of the most famous writers of all time.

The greatest liar on Earth : a "true" story, Mark Greenwood ; illustrations by Frane Lessac.

There is not a stir or a whisper when Louis de Rougemont steps onto the stage to recount his astonishing experiences. It is the most amazing story a man ever lived to tell a breathtaking tale of catastrophe and miraculous events. But critics say he is an impostor with a gift for ripping yarns. Are Louis's tales true? Or is he the greatest liar on earth? The true story of Louis de Rougemont and how his stories became truth and his truths became stories.

Vivaldi's Four seasons, Anna Harwell Celenza ; illustrated by JoAnn E. Kitchel.

Depicts the story of how Antonio Vivaldi composed and wrote his famous Four Seasons concertos and the accompanying sonnets.

The impossible rescue : the true story of an amazing Arctic adventure, Martin W. Sandler.

In 1897, whaling in the Arctic waters off Alaska's coast was as dangerous as it was lucrative. And in that particular year, winter blasted early, bringing storms and ice packs that caught eight American whale ships and three hundred sailors off guard. Their ships locked in ice, with no means of escape, the whalers had limited provisions on board, and little hope of surviving until warmer temperatures arrived many months later. Here is the incredible story of three men sent by President McKinley to rescue them. The mission? A perilous trek over 1,500 miles of nearly impassable Alaskan terrain, in the bone-chilling months of winter, to secure two herds of reindeer (for food) and find a way to guide them to the whalers before they starve. With the help of photographs and journal entries by one of the rescuers, Martin W. Sandler takes us on every step of their riveting journey, facing raging blizzards, killing cold, injured sled dogs, and setbacks to test the strongest of wills.

Awesome Aotearoa : Margaret Mahy's history of New Zealand, illustrated by Trace Hodgson.

New Zealand history like never before! Look for New Zealand on the map. There is the North Island like some long-necked creature leaping up and away, trying to escape from the South Island and Stewart Island, anxious to have a few adventures on its own. But the South Island, sternly oblong, holds it back and Stewart Island finally anchors it down. "You're not having any adventures without me", it mutters. "Don't think you can leave me behind just because I'm smaller than you two!" "For New Zealand is certainly an adventurous country … we have forests and rocky beaches. We have earthquakes and volcanoes, and pools of boiling mud and these days we also have the All Blacks - a world famous rugby football team. Earthquakes, boiling mud and rugby players! Who could wish for more? And New Zealand seems to be one of those countries that has crumbs in its bed and needs to wriggle around in order to be comfortable. It buries bits of itself and then pushes other pieces up. It is not one of those countries that lies around peacefully yawning from time to time and having a bit of a snooze … The famous children's writer joins forces with her country's top political cartoonist in this hilarious and irreverent history of Aotearoa - or New Zealand, to use its other name.

Older Fiction

The Grunts in trouble, Philip Ardagh ; illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

Meet Mr and Mrs Grunt. Oh, go on. They're not that bad. No, actually, they are. Maybe worse, even. But Sunny, their sort-of son, is okay. They stole him from a washing line as a baby. He was hanging by his ears, which probably explains why they're so wonky (but not why he has sticky-up hair that never lies flat, even if you pour glue into it or try taping it in place). Sticky around and you'll also meet Lord Bigg of Bigg Manor, Bigg-hater Larry Smalls, Mimi the Bigg Manor boot boy (yup, she's a girl) and well, you'll have to read the book to find that out. But I should mention the bees. Did I warn you about the bees?

Snivel: the fifth circle of Heck, Dale E. Basye ; illustrations by Bob Dob.

Eleven-year-old Milton and his older sister Marlo are led by the Glib Reaper to Camp Snivel, the level of Heck for whiners, but manage to escape, only to be caught and taken to the court of Judge Judas to testify at Satan's trial.

Almost home, Joan Bauer.

Sixth-grader Sugar and her mother lose their beloved house and experience the harsh world of homelessness.

The race against time, Frank Cottrell Boyce ; illustrated by Joe Berger.

Uh-oh! Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is stuck in reverse. And Baby Harry's pressed a button that means she's reversing through time - with the Tootings aboard. When they finally come to a stop, it's at the feet of a very hungry-looking T-rex. How are the Tootings — and Chitty — going to get out of this one? More fun, fast, feel-good adventure with the world's greatest car … driven by the world's most hapless family.

3 below, Patrick Carman ; [illustrations by Chris Turnham].

Leo has explored the zany, wonderful Whippet Hotel from basement to top floor, with trains, flying goats, and mazes (among other things) in between. But even Leo doesn't know every secret of the Whippet and when he discovers that there's more beneath the hotel than he'd thought, it doesn't take long for more adventures to unfold!

Take your last breath, Lauren Child.

Hey, buster! Normal life is a total yawn. Break out of boredom with this super-awesome series from multi-million-copy bestseller Lauren Child. And get ready to meet Ruby Redfort: code-cracking genius. Intrepid detective. Schoolgirl. Ruby Redfort burst onto the scene in October 2011, and, in the words of Julia Eccleshare, "put imagination and fun back into childhood". Now, everyone's favourite girl detective is back for a second mind-blowing instalment, packed with all the off-the-wall humour, action and friendship of the first book. This time, though, it's an adventure on the wide open ocean, and Ruby is all at sea. Can she crack the case of the Twinford pirates while evading the clutches of a vile sea monster as well as the evil Count von Viscount? Well, you wouldn't want to bet against her.

The second life of Abigail Walker, Frances O'Roark Dowell.

Bullied by two mean girls in her sixth-grade class, a lonely, plump girl gains self-confidence and makes new friends after a mysterious fox gently bites her.

Chickadee, Louise Erdrich.

In 1866, Omakayas's son Chickadee is kidnapped by two ne'er-do-well brothers from his own tribe and must make a daring escape, forge unlikely friendships, and set out on an exciting and dangerous journey to get back home.

Maddy West and the tongue taker, Brian Falkner ; illustrated by Donovan Bixley.

"Maddy West can speak every language in the world. When she is asked to translate some ancient scrolls, Maddy is excited. But the scrolls hide many secrets. Secrets that send Maddy on a wild adventure with a stowaway ninja, a mysterious monkey, a Bulgarian wrestler, and a fiendish witch. And soon Maddy finds herself in deadly peril. Does Maddy have what it takes to save herself and her new friends?" — Back cover.

In a glass Grimmly, Adam Gidwitz.

Frog joins cousins Jack and Jill in leaving their own stories to seek a magic mirror, encountering such creatures as giants, mermaids, and goblins along the way. Based in part on fairy tales from the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen.

The fairy doll : & other tales from the doll's house, Rumer Godden with a foreword by Jacqueline Wilson.

'Dolls cannot tell you anything, but often their wish is as strong as telling. Have you ever felt a doll's wish?' This wonderful classic edition contains some of Rumer Godden's best-loved stories, including: Miss Happiness and Miss Flower; Little Plum, Holly and Ivy; The Fairy Doll; Impunity Jane; Candyfloss; The Doll's House Perfect for new readers or for reading aloud, this collection will introduce a whole new generation of little girls to the magical secret life of dolls.

Osbert the avenger, Christopher William Hill.

The first book in the gruesomely funny Tales from Schwartzgarten series. Meet Osbert Brinkhoff, the unlikeliest of avengers. His is a tale of dark delights and ghastly goings-on, of injustice and revenge. The villains are vicious. The settings are sinister. And good does NOT always prevail… If you prefer cleavers to kittens and fiends to fairies… then welcome to the GRUESOMELY FUNNY Tales from Schwartzgarten. - Osbert the Avenger is the first in a thrilling series of four books, all set in the fictional city of Schwartzgarten - With shades of Lemony Snicket and Roald Dahl, the Tales from Schwartzgarten are as hilarious as they are dark - This brilliantly woven mock-gothic tale has huge child appeal.

The wild winter, Martin Howard ; [illustrations, Luigi Aime]

As you'll recall, the previous book in the series ended with a shocking revelation. Now, Sam and her mentor, the incompetent and rude but strangely likeable Esmelia Sniff, have been separated and evil is beginning to dominate the world. It's the longest, coldest winter since records began and the newspapers are reporting sightings of strange and evil creatures making their way towards the Bleak Fortress. Inside the fortress Sam is a prisoner to Diabolica's evil plans while her friend, the potion expert Helza Poppin, is trapped in the dungeon and scheduled for torture. Things ain't looking good.

Fourmile, Watt Key.

A mysterious stranger arrives at a boy's rundown Alabama farm home, just as a dangerous situation is unfolding for the twelve-year-old and his widowed mother.

Roger Langridge's Snarked! Book two, Ships and sealing wax, [Roger Langridge].

After escaping the clutches of the dastardly royal advisors, our heroes set sail on a sea-spanning voyage in search of the missing Red King, running across a number of familiar Lewis Carroll characters along the way! Collecting issues 5-8 of the critically acclaimed series, join Queen Scarlett, baby Rusty, the Walrus, and the Carpenter as they brave the high seas in search of Snark Island and the treasures that lie within.

The royal treatment : a princess for hire novel, Lindsey Leavitt.

Thirteen-year-old Desi Bascomb is in over her head with school and landing the role of Titania in A Midsummer Night's Dream, and while her job as a substitute princess is more glamorous than ever, a secret she learns about Facade's magic could make everything simpler — or more complicated.

Son, Lois Lowry.

Unlike the other Birthmothers in her utopian community, teenaged Claire forms an attachment to her baby, feeling a great loss when he is taken to the Nurturing Center to be adopted by a family unit.

Ten good and bad things about my life (so far), Ann M. Martin.

Pearl writes an essay about her complicated summer during which her father lost his job, her sister was her junior camp counselor, and she had an explosive fight with James Brubaker the Third.

Island of silence, Lisa McMann.

As the Wanteds, Unwanteds, and Necessaries struggle to adjust to changes in their society, Mr. Today begins training fourteen-year-old Alex to replace him as Artime's leader one day while Alex's disgraced twin, Aaron, connives to take over Quill.

Under Wildwood, Colin Meloy ; illustrations by Carson Ellis.

Ever since Prue McKeel returned home from the Impassable Wilderness after rescuing her brother from the malevolent Dowager Governess, life has been pretty dull. School holds no interest for her, and her new science teacher keeps getting on her case about her dismal test scores and daydreaming in class. Her mind is constantly returning to the verdant groves and sky-tall trees of Wildwood, where her friend Curtis still remains as a bandit-in-training. But all is not well in that world. A hard winter has come and discord reigns in the wake of the so-called Bicycle Coup. Dark assassins with mysterious motives conspire to settle the scores of an unknown client. A titan of industry employs inmates from his orphanage to work in his machine shop, all the while obsessing over the exploitation of the Impassable Wilderness. Under a growing threat, Prue is drawn back into Wildwood, where she and Curtis will face their greatest challenge yet: to save themselves and the lives of their friends, and to bring unity to a divided country. But in order to do that, they must go under Wildwood.

The silver brumby, Elyne Mitchell.

To many people the name Elyne Mitchell is synonymous with The Silver Brumby, the timeless classic that has captivated the hearts and imaginations of young readers since it was first published in 1958. This special edition has been published to commemorate the centenary of Elyne Mitchell's birth and contains The Silver Brumby and three other favourite Brumby books, Silver Brumby's Daughter, Silver Brumbies of the South and Silver Brumby Kingdom. These much-loved classics tell the story of Thowra, the magnificent silver stallion, king of the brumbies. Whether you are enjoying the Silver Brumby series for the first time or rediscovering it after many years, this is a book to be treasured. Also included in this beautiful edition is a specially commissioned biography of Elyne Mitchell, who was born in 1913 and went on to become one of Australia's most successful and popular authors. The biography also contains photographs that depict Elyne in many other areas of her long and distinguished life, including that of daughter, wife, mother, sportswoman, horsewoman, farmer and environmentalist.

Emily & Jackson hiding out, Phyllis Reynolds Naylor ; illustrated by Ross Collins.

Things start looking up for Emily and Jackson when Emily's inheritance clears and Aunt Hilda becomes her legal guardian and offers to become Jackson's, as well, but Uncle Victor reappears, willing to do anything to steal Emily's fortune.

The demigod diaries, Rick Riordan.

What dangers do runaway demigods Luke and Thalia face on their way to Camp Half-Blood? Are Percy and Annabeth up to the task of rescuing stolen goods from a fire-breathing giant who doesn't take kindly to intruders? How exactly are Leo, Piper, and Jason supposed to find a runaway table, dodge a band of party-loving Maenads (who just might be a little psychotic), and stave off a massive explosion all in one hour or less? With his trademark wit and creativity, Rick Riordan answers these questions and more in three never-before-seen short stories that provide vital back-story to the Heroes of Olympus and Percy Jackson books. Original art, enlightening character interviews and profiles, puzzles, and a quiz add to the fun in this action-packed collection.

Tales from a not-so-smart Miss Know-It-All, Rachel Renee Russell.

When Miss Know-It-All's inbox overflows with pleas for guidance, Nikki Maxwell, the school newspaper advice columnist, turns to her best friends for help.

Pie in the sky, Jane Smiley with illustrations by Elaine Clayton.

Abby Lovitt is put in charge of training the expensive and haughty horse Pie in the Sky when his owner refuses. While trying to get a hold on him, she must deal with the new challenges, both good and bad, that come with being a freshman in high school in 1970's Northern California.

The spy princess, Sherwood Smith.

When Lady Lilah disguises herself to sneak out of the castle she discovers that the country is on the verge of revolution and her brother is behind it, and Lilah and her friends decide to help by becoming spies.

No other story, Dr. Cuthbert Soup ; illustrations by Jeffrey Stewart Timmins.

When Mr. Cheeseman and his three "smart, polite, and relatively odor-free" children journey to the not-so-distant past, they meet something utterly surprising the alternate versions of themselves.

Kentucky thriller : a Laura Marlin mystery, Lauren St John ; illustrated by David Dean.

Phoenix, Jeff Stone.

When their home is robbed, thirteen-year-old Phoenix Collins, an up and coming amateur dirt-bike racer, discovers a shocking mystery about his grandfather, and Phoenix must travel to China and then to Texas to find some answers.

The seven tales of Trinket, Shelley Moore Thomas ; pictures by Dan Craig.

Guided by a tattered map, accompanied by Thomas the Pig Boy, and inspired by the storyteller's blood that thrums through her veins, eleven-year-old Trinket searches for the seven stories she needs to become a bard like her father, who disappeared years before.

Emerald star, Jacqueline Wilson ; illustrated by Nick Sharratt.

This is a fantastic new adventure for brave, feisty Hetty Feather - one of Jacqueline Wilson's most well-loved characters. Since leaving the Foundling Hospital, Hetty has seen her fair share of drama, excitement, tragedy and loss. After the death of her beloved mama, she sets off to find a real home at last - starting with the search for her father. But Hetty is no longer a simple country girl, and begins to fear she'll never truly belong anywhere. And even when she is reunited with her beloved childhood sweetheart Jem, Hetty still longs for adventure - especially when an enchanting figure from her past makes an unexpected reappearance. Could a more exciting future lie ahead for Hetty?

Picture Books

Bob and the moontree mystery, Simon Bartram.

When Bob, the Man on the Moon, spots a strange seed bouncing along the surface of the Moon, little does he know that it will grow overnight into the first ever Moontree! Earth tourists (especially the lumberjacks) come to try to get a piece of Moontree, but Bob keeps them at bay (oblivious to the alien assistance he's getting). Only when things start to get really shocking (or should we say shaking?) do we discover the secret of the Moontree it's seeds are actually eggs, each one containing a baby alien!

My special one and only, Joe Berger.

When Bridget Fidget takes her favorite toy, Captain Cat, with her to a store to spend the golden coin the tooth fairy brought, she loses him.

The dreadful fluff, Aaron Blabey.

Serenity Strainer was perfect. But then she discovered something perfectly awful The Dreadful Fluff!

I'm bored, Michael Ian Black ; illustrated by Debbie Ohi.

When a bored girl meets a potato who finds children tedious, she tries to prove him wrong by demonstrating all of the things they can do, from turning cartwheels to using their imaginations.

How does sleep come?, Jeanne C. Blackmore ; pictures by Elizabeth Sayles.

A little boy asks his mother about sleep at bedtime.

Jack and Nancy, Quentin Blake.

Jack and Nancy love to hear the sailors tell of adventures far away. But one day, they are walking on the cliffs and it starts to rain, so Jack puts up his umbrella. But the wind picks up and WHOOOOSH they are blown away to an exotic island! They explore for a bit, and even meet a parrot, but there are no sign of any ships to get them home. How will they get back?

Mangu & ma : a real-life first-focus book for little kiwis, Megan Bowers-Vette.

"A black and white picture book on board pages for babies 0-2 years to help their focus and concentration. A photographic collection of images with a New Zealand theme" — Publisher's information.

Christmas parade, Sandra Boynton.

A lively marching band of animal musicians leads the Christmas Parade.

Mossy, Jan Brett.

Mossy, a turtle with a garden growing on her shell, is taken from her home and new friend to become an exhibit in a museum, until the director's niece, Tory, notices how sad Mossy is and helps arrange for her to go home.

Pirateria : the wonderful plunderful pirate emporium, written and illustrated by Calef Brown.

Illustrations and rhyming text invite the reader to explore a store that provides everything a privateer, mutineer, or buccaneer might want in the way of high-quality pirate gear, from clothing to classes in smuggling molasses.

One gorilla : a counting book, Anthony Browne.

Count from one to ten with apes and primates. One gorilla, two orang-utans and three chimpanzees. Explore the family of primates and learn to count from one to ten with former Children's Laureate in this exquisite picture book for the youngest of children. With all the colour and drama of the natural world, Anthony Browne's detailed depictions of monkeys and apes bring a new depth to first numbers and convey an important message to us all. It encourages early numeracy through Anthony Browne's beautiful artwork. It carries an important message about protecting our environment.

Tug of war, John Burningham.

Hare, Hippopotamus and Elephant live together, but not happily, for Hippopotamus and Elephant are forever teasing poor Hare. One day, Hare decides to teach his friends a lesson, and so the great tug of war begins.

Alfie is not afraid, Patricia Carlin.

A boy on a campout is not concerned about bats, crocodiles, or even a thunk that could signal an alien invasion because he has his very brave watchdog, Alfie, with him.

The children who loved books, Peter Carnavas.

Angus and Lucy love books. They have hundreds of them. Then one day, all the books are taken away, and Angus and Lucy discover they need books more than they ever imagined. A warm and moving celebration of books and the way in which they bring us all together.

Horsefly and Honeybee, Randy Cecil.

Honeybee and Horsefly have a fight that results in each of them losing a wing and being forced to walk, but when they are both captured by hungry Bullfrog their only hope of escape is to work together.

The perfect flower girl, Taghred Chandab & Binny Talib.

Amani is going to be a flower girl, she is counting the days. And there is so much to do: cooking with Tatya, visiting the dressmaker, dancing at the party with all the bride's friends. But when the wedding day comes, and the guests are waiting, will Amani be the perfect flower girl?

Knight School, Jane Clarke and Jane Massey.

Little Knight and Little Dragon can't wait to start school. But Little Knight goes to school in the day time and Little Dragon goes to school at night. This is an adorably sweet story in which these very different friends with very different experiences make sure they have time for each other. With an adventure, a feisty princess and a glorious sparkly night scene, this is a wonderful follow up to the hugely successful "Knight Time".

Nighttime Ninja, Barbara DaCosta ; art by Ed Young.

Late at night, when all is quiet and everyone is asleep, a ninja creeps silently through the house in search of treasure.

Bear despair, Gaetan Doremus.

Don't ever take a bear's teddy bear, no matter how cute you think it is. If you do, you'll be in for trouble. Big trouble. For a bear whose teddy has been stolen isn't simply heartbroken, but determined to get it back. So determined that he might just gobble up more than honey to do so! However, should he succeed in getting his teddy back, then there just might be a surprise in store. This is a book that all readers will relish, and one they will want to read again and again.

Too noisy!, Malachy Doyle, Ed Vere.

This is a heartwarming read-aloud (shout-aloud!) comedy from Malachy Doyle, boldly illustrated by Ed Vere, about a very noisy family and a very quiet middle child who just wants some peace!! The Bungles are ever such a noisy bunch and Sam, the middle Bungle, is desperate to escape his booming, twooting, banging, clanging family. So, off he wanders into the wood for some peace and quiet. Deeper and deeper he goes, until EEK! What's that climbing up his trouser leg? Beek! He's lost and cold and scared! Oh, how he misses the comfortable hullaboo of his own Bungle tribe. But wait what can he hear?! A boomty-boomty-booming! Who could it be? You've guessed it! It's his family all a-banging, squeaking and squawking! Sam realises that quiet may be good but noisy's just as good sometimes especially when you're lost! This is a perfect book for families! Children will instantly relate to the character of Sam and his chattering brothers and sisters - who is the noisiest in your house? Ed's distinctive and energetic style is the perfect match for Malachy's striking language.

Saving Muddle-up farm, Mike Dumbleton, Jobi Murphy

Muddled-up Farm is a very special farm. On Muddled-up Farm all the animals happily make the wrong noises. But with all the tourists the animals plan to stay quiet. Then a vet arrives and pleads them to make noise! Come on - open the gate and see what's happening.

Mice on ice, Rebecca Emberley and Ed Emberley.

Colourful mice go ice skating and are unexpectedly joined by a feline friend.

Kia Kaha : the cathedral mouse, written by Clare Erasmus ; illustrated by Vanessa Ide.

After the February 2011 earthquake a young mouse living in the Christchurch Cathedral helps the people of Christchurch by sharing the message of faith.

Dart of Castle Hill, written by Christine Fernyhough & Susan Elijas ; illustrations by Susan Elijas ; photography by John Bougen.

With gorgeous contemporary collage illustrations, hide and seek interactive text, the backdrop of a stunning New Zealand sheep station, lovely sense of humour and even sheep poo, all in a rhyming story, this book has it all! Dart the dog is a wonderful main character a bundle of energy who is tireless in his search and very appealing. An added bonus is that you get to find out what goes on in a hill country sheep station. Great ending funny and unexpected. It's so good to look at and so well written that parents won't mind reading this book over and over again!.

Oh, no!, words by Candace Fleming ; pictures by Eric Rohmann.

A series of animals falls into a deep hole, only to be saved at last by a very large rescuer.

Underground, Denise Fleming.

Pulp paintings and rhyming text spotlight the underground world of burrowing, tunneling, and digging animals. Includes "Creature Indentification" page.

Make a wish bear, Greg Foley.

Bear makes the greatest wish of all to be with friends.

Newspaper Boy and Origami Girl!, Michael Foreman.

When a group of bullies steal a poor newspaper boy's money, his bag suddenly flies into the air and the newspapers transform into Origami Girl. Joey is whisked away on away on a hair-raising chase with his new superhero friend in order to confront the bullies.

These bees count!, Alison Formento ; illustrated by Sarah Snow.

Mr. Tate's class visits a bee and honey farm, where Farmer Ellen teaches the children how to listen to the bees

Good night, sleep tight, written by Mem Fox ; illustrated by Judy Horacek.

Another perfect picture book from the creators of the bestselling Where is the Green Sheep? Bonnie and Ben have a favourite babysitter whose much loved stories ensure a wonderful whimsical world before bedtime.

Boot & Shoe, Marla Frazee.

Boot and Shoe are dogs that live in the same house, eat from the same bowl, and sleep in the same bed but spend their days on separate porches until a squirrel mixes things up.

Queen Victoria's Christmas, Jackie French & Bruce Whatley.

Something strange is happening at the palace and the dogs can't work it out. The cooks are busy are royal visitors arriving? Mysterious parcels are arriving. And most curious of all what is that tree doing in Prince Albert's study?

What's the time, Mr Wolf?, Debi Gliori.

What's the time, Mr Wolf? It's story time with Debi Gliori! Accompany Mr Wolf as he goes about his daily routine from breakfast to bedtime - and get to know the real Mr Wolf! Little ones will enjoy recognising familiar faces from a plethora of nursery rhymes, including Little Red Riding Hood (masquerading as the post girl), three cheeky little pigs (who make prank calls), a cat who's a dab hand at the fiddle, plus four and twenty blackbirds. An enchantingly original story inspired by the well-known playground tag game, this is also perfect for practising telling the time. The stunning artwork reveals something new with every reading and the many fabulous details will keep you turning the pages again and again.

Cat tale, Michael Hall.

Three adventurous and inquisitive cats named Lillian, Tilly, and William J. have an exciting afternoon playing together.

Rhino? What rhino?, Caryl Hart and Sarah Horne.

When Rhino escapes from the zoo to a farm he leaves a trail of havoc and devastation. When the poor farm animals end up taking the blame for missing food, clothes and toys, they decide Rhino needs to learn a thing or two about manners!

The princess and the peas, Caryl Hart ; [illustrated by] Sarah Warburton.

Lily-Rose May is perfect in every way, until she kicks up such a fuss about eating her peas that her dad calls the doctor. He diagnoses a severe case of Princess-itis and packs Lily-Rose off to live at the palace. But is a pea-free life of royal luxury as good as it sounds? A funny light-hearted cautionary tale for all princesses (and princes) who don't like to eat up their greens.

On the farm : our holiday with Uncle Kev, Roland Harvey.

Uncle Kevin had a farm, A-E-I-O-U, and on that farm we had a holiday, A-E-I-O-U! With a moo moo here and an oink oink there, here a honk, there a quack, everywhere a neigh neigh. Uncle Kevin had a farm, A-E-I-O-U! Come with us on our other family holiday adventures: All the Way to W.A., To the Top End, In the City, In the Bush and At the Beach.

Grandma McGarvey's Christmas, story by Jenny Hessell ; illustrated by Trevor Pye.

"Grandma McGarvey sets up camp in the caravan park on Christmas Eve, but she hears Santa can't make it this year - he's sick in bed. Usually Grandma McGarvey would step in, but this year she's got her own Christmas party to run. She goes back to her caravan, changes into her dressing gown and sleeping cap and gets ready for her Christmas Eve feast. But the flames from the Christmas Pudding scare the dog, who hides up a tree! While rescuing the dog she stumbles upon the families of the camping ground, who are having a party outdoors. Dressed as she is in her red dressing gown and cap, the children mistake her for Santa! So Grandma and the dog decide to stay and join the party" — Publisher's information.

Charley's first night, Amy Hest ; illustrated by Helen Oxenbury.

A book about friendship, new beginnings and that indescribable measure of love that we call a dog.

The reader, Amy Hest ; illustrated by Lauren Castillo.

A boy and his dog hike to the top of a very tall, snowy hill where they play, enjoy a snack, and then share their favorite book before sledding home.

Angelina's Christmas stories, stories by Katharine Holabird ; illustrations by Helen Craig.

Angelina is a magical character who fulfils every little girl's dreams.

One spotted giraffe : a counting pop-up book, Petr Horacek.

Illustrations, simple text, and pop-up numerals encourage young readers to identify and count animals, from one spotted giraffe to ten swimming fish.

Lemonade in winter : a book about two kids counting money, written by Emily Jenkins and illustrated by G. Brian Karas.

Pauline and her brother John-John set up a stand to sell lemonade, limeade, and lemon-limeade one cold, wintry day, then try to attract customers as Pauline adds up their earnings.

Lovabye dragon, Barbara Joosse ; illustrated by Randy Cecil.

When a lonely dragon follows a trail of princess tears, a beautiful friendship is born. They march and sing, roar and whisper, hide and seek, then settle into snug companionship at bedtime.

As the crow flies, written by Sheila Keenan ; illustrated by Kevin Duggan.

Rhyming text describes the noisy, funny, and sometimes annoying behaviour of crows.

Trick-or-treat!, Leo Landry.

On Halloween, Oliver the ghost has a lot of work to do before the trick-or-treaters come knocking at his door and before the spookiest guests arrive at his costume party.

Bye, bye, butterflies!, Andrew Larsen ; illustrated by Jacqueline Hudon-Verrelli.

Inspired by the sight of some school kids releasing butterflies up into the sky, a young boy turns into a "butterfly scientist" and helps his teacher and classmates care fro some caterpillars as they grow into butterflies.

Here comes Doctor Hippo, Jonathan London ; illustrated by Gilles Eduar.

While playing doctor, Hippo visits the other animals until he gets scared and runs home to Doctor Mommy.

Soup for one, Ethan Long.

A little fly who anticipates enjoying a big bowl of hot soup is unexpectedly joined by a sequence of interlopers who help themselves to his lunch one by one until their number reaches ten.

This little angel, [written by Lucy Lyes ; illustrated by Emily Bolam].

This Little Angel is a delightful rhyming touch-and-feel book from Ladybird, with a different angel to talk about and a big touchy feely item to explore on every double page. From a shiny gold halo and bumpy harp to feathery wings and fluffy clouds, each angel-themed tactile area helps to stimulate sensory awareness in older babies and toddlers and teach them the difference between smooth, rough, bumpy, shiny and so on.

This little builder, [written by Lucy Lyes ; illustrated by Emily Bolam].

This Little Builder is a delightful rhyming touch-and-feel book from Ladybird, with a different busy builder to talk about and a big touchy feely item to explore on every double page. From a shiny hard hat and hi-vis jacket to leathery boots and scratchy rough bricks, each builder-themed tactile area helps to stimulate sensory awareness in older babies and toddlers and teach them the difference between smooth, rough, bumpy, shiny and so on.

The man from the land of Fandango, Margaret Mahy ; [illustrated by] Polly Dunbar.

The man from the land of Fandango is coming to pay you a call! He wears a hat with a tassel and a polka-dot tie - and he juggles and bounces and dances with bears, bison, baboons, kangaroos and even dinosaurs. He's wonderful and amazing - so watch out for him, and watch carefully - because he only appears every 500 years! This magical, fantastical poem, full of Mahy's signature wordplay and joie de vivre, is brilliantly matched by the humour and energy of Polly Dunbar's illustrations.

Too tall houses, Gianna Marino.

Owl and Rabbit are good friends and neighbours atop a hill, but when Rabbit's garden blocks Owl's view of the forest Owl builds a higher house, which prevents sunlight from reaching Rabbit's plants.

A great cake, Tina Matthews.

"Harvey wants to bake a great cake, but he doesn't have all the ingredients. That doesn't stop him. Harvey can make cakes from the most amazing things!" — Back cover.

James Mayhew presents Ella Bella Ballerina and the nutcracker.

Join Ella Bella Ballerina as she twirls into the enchanting world of The Nutcracker ballet with its magical dancing snowflakes, tantalising swirling sweets and, of course, the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy. But can Ella Bella help the Nutcracker to defeat his arch enemy, the wicked Mouse King? James Mayhew's richly detailed storytelling and his exquisite, retro art-style make this book perfect for all would-be prima ballerinas. The final page is devoted to ballet facts, so children can learn about the original ballet The Nutcracker.

Pittipat's saucer of moon, Geraldine McCaughrean ; illustrated by Maria Nilsson.

Pittipat knows that the moon is a saucer of cream and his brothers and sisters mean to drink it all up. So the brave little cat sets off to find them, sailing over giant waves and climbing the starry sky until he is face-to-face with the big dark Night! Enter a magical world in this beautiful story by award-winning author Geraldine McCaughrean.

Monsters don't cry, Brett McKee, Ella Burfoot.

Archie, a brave young monster, is determined to face all the obstacles life has to offer without shedding a single tear. From scary nightmares to falling out of a swing, upset tummies due to too much birthday cake, and even getting stung by a mean old bumble bee, Archie remains steadfast to prove that he is a real monster and monsters are strong, they don't cry! However, Archie eventually learns that sometimes even little monsters don't always have to be brave, especially when mommy and daddy monster are at hand to make everything all right!

Blue gnu, written by Kyle Mewburn ; illustrated by Daron Parton.

"Boo is a gnu. The one and only BLUE gnu. Boo is unique, until he meets Hoo. Hoo is blue too, and he wants to be friends with Boo. But Boo doesn't want to be friends, he wants to be unique. Boo tries everything to make himself stand out — jumping in bushes, in mud, painting himself with berries. Nothing works quite as planned, and what's worse, Hoo does the same — Hoo wants to match Boo. Boo is frustrated. Then Hoo loses Boo, and Boo realises he'd much rather have a friend, because everything's much more fun with two." — Supplied by publisher.

Horns, tails, spikes, and claws : a mix-and-match monster book, J. Elizabeth Mills, Jef Czekaj.

Readers can flip die-cut pages and mix monsters to create their ideal creature!

Baby bilby's question, Sally Morgan ; illustrated by Adele Jaunn.

'How long will you love me?' said Baby Bilby to his dad. It is the reassurance everyone craves and Baby Bilby's dad knows just the right way to express it!

Looking for Rex, Jan Ormerod, Carol Thompson.

The children are sure that Gramps would never feel lonely if he had a dog of his own. They say the dog should be called Rex, but what would Rex look like? So they play Looking for Rex, and pretend to see Rex, but whenever they think they find Rex it is never really the right Rex.

Bears in beds, Shirley Parenteau ; illustrated by David Walker.

This title features a family of irresistibly sweet bears in an irresistibly sweet bedtime story. It's time to go to sleep, time for Big Brown Bear to tuck all four little bears into their beds. Then he's ready to climb into his own bed and turn out the light. Five warm beds, holding five sleepy bears, until a sound goes whoosh in the middle of the night, and all the bears wake up in a fright. Will they ever get back into bed? Luckily, Big Brown Bear knows just what to do! A fun, rhyming read-aloud that parents will love and tired little cubs will be happy to snuggle up with. The cuddly pictures and fun-to-read-aloud rhyming text make this pitch-perfect for pre-schoolers. The universally popular bedtime theme makes this book perennially and everlastingly appealing. David Walker's bear characters are colourful, sugar-sweet and absolutely adorable.

Tree : a little story about big things, Danny Parker ; illustrated by Matt Ottley.

Henry is a small sapling who grows into a big strong tree under the protection of an even bigger and stronger tree. But then comes the longest night with drenching waters and howling winds, and the biggest and strongest tree falls. Henry is alone and his heart is hollow until he hears the small voice of a new sapling growing amongst his strong roots.

Fa la la, Leslie Patricelli.

Oh, baby! Leslie Patricelli's one-haired wonder returns to revel in Christmas. It's almost Christmas, and baby simply cannot contain the exuberance. There are things to decorate: a tree, a gingerbread house, a doggy! There are very creative presents to make, Santa to see (must be brave), carols to sing, not to mention the big event itself. Join the seasonal celebrations with humour and joy as everyone's favourite baby puts a special spin on Christmas. These are two sure-fire winners Leslie Patricelli's bald baby, and Christmas together at last! It's all here: choosing the tree and decorating it; making home-made gifts; singing carols; and more each event celebrated with bald baby flair. It is heartwarming and hilarious like all the other books featuring this baby.

Far, far from home, Elizabeth Pulford ; illustrated by Fifi Colston.

It's night-time when a tiny little bug with a tiny little light escapes from a jar and flies home to his family, meeting some other creatures along the way.

Minette's feast : the delicious story of Julia Child and her cat, Susanna Reich ; illustrated by Amy Bates.

While Julia is in the kitchen learning to cook up elaborate, delicious dishes, the only feast Minette is truly interested in is that of fresh mouse. Includes biographical information about Julia Child.

Duck says don't!, Alison Ritchie ; illustrated by Hannah George.

When Goose goes on vacation, Duck finds out that being in charge and keeping the pond the happiest pond in the world is much too hard.

Little Tug, Stephen Savage.

Little Tug knows what to do when the tall ship, the speedboat, and the ocean liner need him, and at such times, he is indispensible.

Lucy can't sleep, Amy Schwartz.

Unable to sleep, a little girl tries counting sheep and other items, searching for her doll and bear, eating a snack, and many other things in hopes of becoming tired.

Splat says thank you!, Rob Scotton.

In this Thanksgiving-themed story, Splat the Cat figures out how to let Seymour know that he's thankful for their friendship.

Whose nose and tail and toes are those? : flip-flap fun, Nick Sharratt, Sally Symes.

Lift the flaps and join the fun. See if you can guess who's in disguise in this exciting board book from the Baby Walker range. Turn the pages, lift the flaps and see if you can guess who's hiding. Colourful and fun with Nick Sharratt's bold, bright illustrations, this is a simple novelty board book for the very young. With lively rhythmic read-aloud text, little children will love guessing who's hiding over the page. This is one of two new exciting books in the Baby Walker series featuring the best quality art and design for babies. It stimulates development through engaging artwork and simple flaps to lift. It features bright, clear illustrations encourage a lifelong love of books.

Boat works, Tom Slaughter.

"The question "What am I?" and a linked written clue invites kids to lift the first portion of the folded page to reveal another clue and more of the featured boat, and then a final fold-out shows the entire vessel. Featured boats include: sailboat, tugboat, ocean liner, rowboat, ferry, houseboat, and barge" — Provided by publisher.

Earth to Clunk, Pam Smallcomb ; pictures by Joe Berger.

For a school assignment, a boy reluctantly writes a letter to Clunk of the planet Quazar, sending his older sister with it, but as more letters and packages are exchanged, he realises that having an alien pen pal can be fun.

Cold snap, Eileen Spinelli ; illustrated by Marjorie Priceman.

A cold snap has everyone in the town of Toby Mills feeling down, until the mayor's wife thinks of a way to warm things up.

Bear has a story to tell, written by Phillip C. Stead ; illustrated by Erin E. Stead.

It was almost winter and Bear was getting sleepy. But first, Bear had a story to tell. And so Bear sets out to tell his friends, but with winter fast approaching they are all far too busy to listen. By the time Bear is through helping his friends get ready for winter, will anyone still be awake to hear his story?

Because Amelia smiled, David Ezra Stein.

A little girl's smile as she skips down the street in New York inspires a neighbour to send cookies to her grandson in Mexico, and the goodwill soon spreads around the world.

It's all about me-ow : a young cat's guide to the good life, Hudson Talbott.

A cat gives three kittens advice on how to charm, entertain, and communicate with their new human

Ten tiny toes, Todd Tarpley ; illustrated by Marc Brown.

Illustrations and rhyming text celebrate a parents' joy as ten tiny toes enter the world and, later, learn to walk, bop, and jump.

Kiwi play with me, Helen Taylor.

"Learn to count from one to ten with a playful young kiwi and his friends" — Publisher information.

The pets you get, Thomas Taylor, Adrian Reynolds.

A small boy imagines all the wild pets he could get, from an enormous bear to a fiery dragon! He decides they'd be so much better than his sister's boring little guinea pig. But maybe even the smallest of pets can be surprisingly fun, too.

One very tired wombat, Renee Treml.

One wombat is very tired, and he just wants to rest. The birds try to be quiet well, some of them, anyway but it seems that they're not as quiet as they think. Poor tired wombat. Will he ever get some sleep? One Very Tired Wombat is a charming counting book featuring some very cheeky Australian animals.

Hide-and-seek penguins, [written by Fiona Watt] ; illustrated by Lesley Danson.

Little children will love this luxury touchy-feely flap book featuring loveable penguins. It follows the penguins through a day in their lives from tobogganing in the morning, swimming at lunchtime and having a big warm huddle goodnight. Featuring charming illustrations by Lesley Danson, it is a perfect gift for Christmas, or any time of the year. It feeds into the current popularity surrounding penguins, promoted by films such as "Happy Feet" and "Surf's Up".

That's not my angel, [written by Fiona Watt ; illustrated by Rachel Wells].

This lovely book for the very young child with textured patches to touch and colourful pictures on each page, will develop pre-reading skills and a life-long love for books.

That's not my panda — its ears are too fluffy, [written by Fiona Watt ; illustrated by Rachel Wells].

This is a delightful, brand new title in the award-winning "That's Not My…" series which has sold approximately ten million titles world-wide. Babies and little children will love exploring the different touchy-feely textures on the pandas. Which bits of the panda are soft, fluffy ears, rough or fuzzy? Rachel Well's colourful illustrations, along with the familiar mouse, the repetitive text and the tactile touchy-feely patches have never-ending appeal will delight babies and toddlers. The textural patches and the descriptive words are specially chosen to develop babies' and toddlers' sensory and language development.

Hippospotamus, Jeanne Willis, Tony Ross.

Hippopotamus had a spotamus on her bottomus! "It's Measles!" said Weasel. "It's Hippopox!" said Fox. "It's Jungle Fever!" said Beaver. But in the end the spotamus turned out to be something hilariously unexpected.

Each kindness, Jacqueline Woodson ; illustrated by E.B. Lewis.

When Ms. Albert teaches a lesson on kindness, Chloe realises that she and her friends have been wrong in making fun of new student Maya's shabby clothes and refusing to play with her.

Do cows meow? : a lift-the-flap book, Salina Yoon

Do cows sing? Do cows coo? All I know is cows go moo! Lift the flaps to find lots more barnyard animal sounds!

Do crocs kiss?, Salina Yoon.

This book is suitable for children aged 3 years and up. Do crocs cry? Do crocs clap? All I know is crocs go snap! This novelty board book, with fun text and colourful illustrations, features adorable lions, tigers and bears, as well as the snappy title reptile and other favourite creatures. Kids will happily lift the flap on each big animal 'mouth' to discover what sound it makes. For a grand finale, all the animals appear together peering out from behind two gatefolds, so children can sneak a peek and say all the sounds again!

Younger Fiction

The Tooth Fairy's mistake, Linda Dawley.

"Annabelle the Tooth Fairy has been hard at work for one hundred years and desperately needs help. She gets it from an unexpected source when Molly persuades Annabelle to take her to Fairyland. Here they discover Molly's own magic… Advice from the Gnome of the Forest isn't as good as they expected it to be. In the end it is the Grand Fairy who decides what has to be done. Unfortunately for Annabelle, it isn't easy dealing with Molly's all-too human habits. She has to learn patience and Molly has to learn to do what she's told!" — Back cover.

Asterix omnibus. 6, Asterix in Switzerland, The mansions of the Gods, Asterix and the laurel wreath, written by Rene Goscinny ; illustrated by Albert Uderzo ; [translators: Anthea Bell and Derek Hockridge].

In this fabulous collectors' edition, three Asterix stories are collected in one volume. In ASTERIX IN SWITZERLAND, Getafix must brew a special antidote to save a man from poison, but he needs a certain flower that Asterix and Obelix must travel to Helvetia to find… In THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS, a trendy Roman architect wants to build a modern housing estate in the Gaulish village. Will the villagers be tempted by the chance of making money when the Roman tenants move in? And what about the Gauls' secret weapon? In ASTERIX AND THE LAUREL WREATH, Chief Vitalstatistix invites his brother-in-law to dine on a stew seasoned with Caesar's laurel wreath - so Asterix and Obelix must go to Rome to fetch it!.

Where's Wally?, Martin Handford.

You can search for Wally and his friends fiendishly hidden in every intricately-detailed scene. You can explore extra fantastic features such as great gatefolds revealing more things never seen or searched for before to extend the entertainment of all happy hunters.

Otter and odder, James Howe ; illustrated by Chris Raschka.

When Otter falls in love with his food source, a fish named Myrtle, he must decide whether to follow the way of the otter or the way of his heart.

The fantastic flying books of Mr. Morris Lessmore, written by William Joyce ; illustrated by William Joyce & Joe Bluhm.

Morris Lessmore loves words, stories and books; after a powerful storm carries him to another land, dreary and colourless, he finds a single book in colour that leads him to an amazing library where, he learns, the books need him as much as he needs them.

George and the knight, Sue McMillan ; [illustrator], Ellie Jenkins.

Meet George, a gentle dragon who feels out of place in the fiery dragon world. When he is banished by Cruncher, the dragon ruler, it is the start of a very big adventure. George finds his happiness in a small village when he befriends Alric, the blacksmith's son. But everything changes with the arrival of Lord Badwick, a cruel knight and ruthless dragon-hunter.

The land of Neverbelieve, explored and documented by Norman Messenger.

Discover the extraordinary animals and plants found on the fantastical island of Neverbelieve in this exquisitely illustrated gift book by world-renowned artist, Norman Messenger. On setting foot on the island I was immediately spellbound. There could be nowhere else on Earth quite like this. Such trees, plants, creatures and intriguing people you would never believe. This was a place I had to explore and record. When Norman Messenger stumbled upon the Island of Neverbelieve, he couldn't quite believe his eyes: here was a world where chocolate grew on trees, mountains told stories, and fish flew in the sky at night. Here is your chance to explore the delights of the island from the Hamlet and the Flowering Meadow to the Magical Lake and the Spooky Dark Mountains. Peek behind the gatefold pages to discover more amazing creatures from the island.

The fake friend!, Marissa Moss.

In her diary of doodles and writings, Daphne explores her efforts to become friends with Imogen, a fellow fourth-grader, which means pretending to become pals with Imogen's best friend, Darla.

Third grade angels, Jerry Spinelli ; illustrations by Jennifer A. Bell.

George 'Suds' Morton competes with his third-grade classmates to earn the first 'halo' of the year for good behavior, but being good turns out to be more stressful than he anticipated.

The dragon prophecy : the fourth adventure in the Kingdom of Fantasy, text by Geronimo Stilton ; illustrations by Danilo Barozzi, Silvia Bigolin, and Giuseppe Giundani ; translated by Julia Heim.

Princess Sterling sends the Dragon of the Rainbow and Scribblehopper to bring Geronimo Stilton back the the Kingdom of Fantasy, because he is the hero in the dragon prophecy who will find the stolen dragon egg and restore harmony to the kingdom.

The sugarbag, Nola Turner-Jensen ; illustrated by Dub Leffler.

The Sugarbag is the adventure story of Jimmy and Max, two young brothers, who are on their way to visit their grandfather. Walking through the bush, they encounter an Australian native stingless bee buzzing around their heads. This gives Jimmy the opportunity to teach little Max all he has learned from his grandfather about hunting for sugarbag. Sugarbag is the European word for the honey produced by the stingless bee. The boys go racing through the bush in pursuit of the bee hoping it will lead them to its hive. This is Max's first encounter with hunting for sugarbag and he doesn't really understand what they are searching for, preferring to imagine some sort of bush treasure trove filled with sweets. "Sugarbag is a favourite treat for Aboriginal people. We call it ngarruu. When Grandfather was a little boy, he went hunting for ngarruu with his father," Jimmy explained proudly.

The snow bear, Holly Webb.

As the snow begins to fall just days before Christmas, Grandad helps Sara build an igloo in the garden, and Sara sculpts a small polar bear to watch over it. And what could be more exciting than sleeping outside under the stars? But when Sara awakes in the middle of the night, she finds the igloo is no longer in the garden but lost in a world of ice and her snow bear has transformed into a real live polar bear cub. Sara and the cub set out on an enchanted journey through the wilderness - will they ever find their way home?