Recreation

New Titles Children’s December 2013 (arrived in November 2013)

Audio Visual

101 children's classics
Pumpkin face, the Wiggles.
Simply kids party : 2 CDs of ultimate kids party music.
The mighty sky, Beth Nielsen Chapman and Rocky Alvey.
Amazing animals, Kelvin Roy.
Pop songs for children written and performed by Kelvin Roy.
The great ice-cream heist, Elen Caldecott
When the McIntyre family moves in next door, Eva is intrigued - it is the first interesting thing to happen for ages. But her ever protective Dad - even more protective since Eva's mum died - does not agree. Eva gets to know Jamie McIntyre a bit better, and when he is accused of vandalising the local park, Eva is sure he didn't do it - but she has to prove it…
A game of ghouls, F.E. Higgins.
An earthquake has rumbled through the twisted city of Degringolade, stopping the town Kronometer and the infamous Phenomenals in their tracks. Legend has it that if the ancient clock stops ticking a terrible fate will befall the people of Degringolade, and there's no denying that the super-mundane entities of the tar-pits are behaving strangely. They know something that the townspeople don't: deep below the city, something has woken up. And it's hungry.
Last stand of dead men, Derek Landy.
War has finally come. Not between good and evil, but between Sanctuaries, and if Skulduggery and Valkyrie are to stop it they must team up with the rest of the Dead Men. And at the same time, another war rages within Valkyrie herself, as Darquesse is on the verge of rising …
Sammy and the Starman, Anne Cassidy.
Sammy is thrilled when he finds a tiny space rocket in the park. And even more thrilled when he discovers its owner, Jax, a very small and very irritable 300-year-old spaceman. Can Sammy save Jax from the greedy clutches of his nosey neighbour Dennis, and help him get home?
Atticus Claw settles a score, Jennifer Gray.
Atticus Grammatticus Cattypus Claw, the world's greatest reformed cat burglar is back. This time, the tabby with talent is on the right side of the law. And when Jimmy Magpie and his gang are busted out of jail by a mysterious villain and an evil cat called Ginger Biscuit, Atticus knows from bitter experience he's going to need all his skill and courage to catch them. Can Atticus overcome his murky past with the help of the Cheddar family in order to prevent the biggest crime in history and settle a score of his own?
Furry Towers, Jennifer Gray and Amanda Swift.
Furry Towers promises the best food and fabulous facilities for guinea pigs - Fuzzy and Coco are so excited! But when they arrive, the friends find themselves in a smelly old hutch with only mouldy lettuce to eat. Coco is not impressed! And it soon becomes clear that something terribly sinister is going on at Furry Towers - can the friends save the day again?
Freaky families, Diana Wynne Jones.
The four grannies: Two children are left alone for a couple of days, while their parents go away on a business trip. They have four very different grandmas - a mean one, a snobby one, an anxious one, and a delicate one. Erg tries to make all the grannies leave him alone, but manages to turn them into one 'Super-Granny'. Auntie Bea's day out: Annoying Auntie Bea always does things HER way. And when she decides to take the three children (Nancy, Debbie and Simon) to the seaside, despite what the signs say, she is determined that they will sit on the small, fenced off and isolated island. It turns out to be a magical island though, and whisks her & the children (and dog) around to different places trying to get rid of them…
Chuckle Bob's great escape, Jeremy Strong.
Chuckle Bob the monkey escapes from the pet shop and causes chaos in this fun story from comedy legend, Jeremy Strong.

Non-Fiction

Bigfoot and the Yeti, Mary Colson.
Read thrilling accounts of true encounters with Bigfoot and the Yeti!
Fun facts & silly stories. 2.
Did you know that snakes can survive for six months without eating? Have you ever seen a show-jumping rabbit? Is it true that a mouse has more bones than a human being? What does a blobfish look like? An instantly engaging, bright new book in an attractive format, Fun Facts & Silly Stories is aimed squarely at the younger Ripley reader. Large, colourful type and entertaining images educate and inform in a humorous style. Incredible facts are supplemented by explanatory stories and information throughout.
Knowledge encyclopedia.
Uses text and computer-generated artworks to provide detailed, realistic explorations of a wide range of topics in six broad categories.
Ghosts and hauntings, Jane Bingham.
Learn what scientists and other experts think ghosts might be!
Feeling thankful, Shelley Rotner and Sheila Kelly ; photographs by Shelley Rotner.
Full-colour photographs and simple text illustrate a variety of basic things for which people are thankful.
How to stop being bullied : a kids' guide, Ann Neville.
What can kids do to stop being bullied? Are there strategies that kids can use to deal with bullying by themselves? YES! This guide answers questions such as: What is bullying? Who gets targeted and why? How does it feel to be bullied? Who can help? How can kids bully-proof themselves? What can be done about cyber bullying? What can witnesses/bystanders do? Do the bullies themselves need help? What is the key ingredient of a safe world?
Singing times tables : songs, raps and games for teaching the times tables. Book 2, Helen MacGregor & Stephen Chadwick.
Singing Times Tables Book 2 by Helen MacGregor and Stephen Chadwick uses rhythmic raps, songs and chants to transform learning the times tables whether it's rote learning, applying calculations or testing them. By rapping or singing to lively performance and backing tracks they rote learn the tables, then they apply the calculations in real life situation songs and chants. The last section offers question and answer tests a handy assessment tool for teachers.
Machines at the airport, Siân Smith.
This book uses simple text and labelled photographs to examine a wide range of cool machines used at the airport, revealing how each machine solves a particular problem. Machines covered include jet aeroplanes, staircases on wheels, scanners, conveyor belts, radars, and more!
The Faber book of nursery stories, Barbara Ireson ; illustrated by Shirley Hughes.
First published in 1966, this bedtime classic has been lovingly restored. Featuring the Ugly Duckling, the Three Billy Goats Gruff, Thumbelina and other childhood favourites, each story is a treat to read aloud, the perfect length for parents and children to share at bedtime. Completes any child's first bookshelf.
Little Red Riding Hood, retold by Bernette Ford ; illustrated by Tom Knight.
Retells the story of a little girl who meets a wicked wolf in the forest on her way to visit her Granny.
The tortoise & the hare, Jerry Pinkney.
Illustrations and minimal text relate the familiar fable of the race between a slow tortoise and a quick but foolish hare.
The giant bear : an Inuit folktale, told by Jose Angutinngurniq ; illustrated by Eva Widermann.
Retells the legend of the nanurluk and how once a clever man defeated one.
Vampires and werewolves, Jane Bingham.
Find out about the evidence that supports the existence of vampires and werewolves!
Manaakihia te tangata, Peti Nohotima.
Ko te tikanga a Kāhui me tana whānau, me manaaki t-e tangata. Ahakoa ko wai te tangata ka haere atu ki te kāinga o te kuia n-ei o Kāhui, ka whakatauhia. Ko te kōrero a Rīpeka, te kōti-ro a Kāhui, i ētahi wā me whakatūpato tōna māmā ki te pōwhiri noa i te tangata. Ko tāna, kāore e tino mōhiotia ko wai te tangata pai, ko wai te tangata kino.
He aha ngā painga o te Tiriti o Waitangi?, Peti Nohotima.
Teacher's resource contains a short play designed to support students to improve their Māori language skills. Designed to support language learning in Māori language immersion schools, and also for general secondary schools for NCEA Level 2 and Level 3 students.
He aha te hua o Matariki?, Peti Nohotima.
Teacher's resource contains a short play designed to support students to improve their Māori language skills. Designed to support language learning in Māori language immersion schools, and also for general secondary schools for NCEA Level 2 and Level 3 students.
He aha te mea nui?, Peti Nohotima.
Teacher's resource contains a short play designed to support students to improve their Māori language skills. Designed to support language learning in Māori language immersion schools, and also for general secondary schools for NCEA Level 2 and Level 3 students.
He mana tō te ingoa, Peti Nohotima.
Designed to support language learning in Māori language immersion schools, and also for general secondary schools for NCEA Level 2 and Level 3 students. Teacher's resource contains a short play designed to support students to improve their Māori language skills.
Kai ora, hua ora, Peti Nohotima.
Teacher's resource contains a short play designed to support students to improve their Māori language skills. Designed to support language learning in Māori language immersion schools, and also for general secondary schools for NCEA Level 2 and Level 3 students.
Kāti te kaioraora, Peti Nohotima.
Teacher's resource contains a short play designed to support students to improve their Māori language skills. Designed to support language learning in Māori language immersion schools, and also for general secondary schools for NCEA Level 2 and Level 3 students.
Nōu te ao, kia rite, Peti Nohotima.
Teacher's resource contains a short play designed to support students to improve their Māori language skills. Designed to support language learning in Māori language immersion schools, and also for general secondary schools for NCEA Level 2 and Level 3 students.
Te Taimona o Taputeranga, Peti Nohotima.
Teacher's resource contains a short play designed to support students to improve their Māori language skills. Designed to support language learning in Māori language immersion schools, and also for general secondary schools for NCEA Level 2 and Level 3 students.
Let's do mental maths for ages 5-6, written by Andrew Brodie.
Each book in this exciting new series contains more than 800 mental maths questions specially devised to boost children's confidence by providing plenty of practice of all the key aspects of the national curriculum. The structure of each test follows the same pattern but the questions get progressively more difficult as children work their way through the book. Tips provided by 'Digit' the dog and word puzzles in the form of 'Andrew Brodie Brain Booster' boxes provide extra elements to support children's learning and challenge them further. Fun stickers featuring Digit the dog for every page make sure children are rewarded for their efforts!
Let's do mental maths for ages 6-7, written by Andrew Brodie.
Each book in this exciting new series contains more than 800 mental maths questions specially devised to boost children's confidence by providing plenty of practice of all the key aspects of the national curriculum. The structure of each test follows the same pattern but the questions get progressively more difficult as children work their way through the book. Tips provided by 'Digit' the dog and word puzzles in the form of 'Andrew Brodie Brain Booster' boxes provide extra elements to support children's learning and challenge them further. Fun stickers featuring Digit the dog for every page make sure children are rewarded for their efforts!
Let's do mental maths for ages 8-9, written by Andrew Brodie.
Each book in this exciting new series contains more than 800 mental maths questions specially devised to boost children's confidence by providing plenty of practice of all the key aspects of the national curriculum. The structure of each test follows the same pattern but the questions get progressively more difficult as children work their way through the book. Tips provided by 'Digit' the dog and word puzzles in the form of 'Andrew Brodie Brain Booster' boxes provide extra elements to support children's learning and challenge them further. Fun stickers featuring Digit the dog for every page make sure children are rewarded for their efforts!
Let's do mental maths for ages 9-10, written by Andrew Brodie.
Each book in this exciting new series contains more than 800 mental maths questions specially devised to boost children's confidence by providing plenty of practice of all the key aspects of the national curriculum. The structure of each test follows the same pattern but the questions get progressively more difficult as children work their way through the book. Tips provided by 'Digit' the dog and word puzzles in the form of 'Andrew Brodie Brain Booster' boxes provide extra elements to support children's learning and challenge them further. Fun stickers featuring Digit the dog for every page make sure children are rewarded for their efforts!
Sizing up winter, written by Lizann Flatt ; illustrated by Ashley Barron.
As young readers journey into the natural world, they will discover that numbers, patterns, shapes and much more can be found in everyday plants and animals. What if animals and plants knew math, just like us? Would snowflakes all fall from the same height in the sky? Would otters spread themselves evenly across lakes? Would groundhogs be aware of the date? In Sizing Up Winter, the third title in the Math in Nature series, nature comes to life to help children grasp concepts of time and measurement.
Pluto's secret : an icy world's tale of discovery, Margaret A. Weitekamp with David DeVorkin ; illustrated by Diane Kidd.
People, children especially, have been baffled, bewildered, and even outraged by the fact that Pluto is no longer called a planet. Through whimsical artwork and an entertaining dialog format, this book explains why this is so. Providing a history of the small, icy world from its discovery and naming to its recent reclassification, this book presents a fascinating look at how scientists organize and class our solar system as they gain new insights into how it works and what types of things exist within it. The book includes a glossary and bibliography.
Introducing the periodic table, Tom Jackson.
This informative title introduces readers to periodic table of elements. Clear, concise text and supportive images explain how the periodic table was created and its significance in the scientific world. Readers will discover what the table reveals about the distinct properties of each major group of elements and how the elements are used in everyday life.
What makes you you?, Gill Arbuthnott ; illustrated by Marc Mones.
What Makes You You? is a mind-blowing introduction to the building blocks of life, DNA, what it is, how it works, and what we can do with it. Breaking down complex scientific concepts and processes into digestible bite-sized chunks; Gill Arbuthnott seamlessly explains everything from the basics of evolution to the incredible achievements of modern day genetic research in an accessible, insightful and brilliantly interesting way. Packed with amazing 3D style illustrations and explanatory diagrams that jump off the page as well as amazing tales of scientific discoveries and what's in store for the future, Gill truly brings science to life.
Rainforest, Penelope Arlon and Tory Gordon-Harris.
Compares and contrasts the plants, animals, and indigenous peoples of the world's rainforests by continent, exploring secrets of survival in the forest and examining how human exploitation threatens these diverse habitats.
In the garden : explore & discover the New Zealand backyard, Ned Barraud & Gillian Candler.
In the Garden introduces young children to common creatures they can find in a New Zealand garden. This book encourages children aged 4-8 to explore their gardens and discover the plants and animals that live there, with sections on bees, wasps and flies; butterflies and moths; snails and spiders; lizards, mammals and birds. Aimed at children from pre-schoolers and up, the book will also appeal to anyone who is curious about the wild side of New Zealand gardens.
First animal encyclopedia, Anita Ganeri.
Every child loves animals. Find out more about them with the brilliant First Animal Encyclopedia. From giant giraffes to tiny tiger cubs, find out all about some of the world's most amazing animals with this informative first guide and reference book. Packed with brilliant photography, fun facts and top animal tips, learn, explore and be amazed by animals big and small.
Weird sea creatures, Erich Hoyt.
Presents information about 50 animals that live in the deepest part of the sea and have adapted to life in total darkness and intense pressure and cold.
Fly guy presents sharks, Tedd Arnold.
Buzz and Fly Guy visit the aquarium, where they learn facts about sharks, including how they breathe in water, what they eat, and how they take care of their young.
Sharks, David Burnie.
Introduces various kinds of sharks, explains how sharks swim, hunt, and travel across the oceans, and discusses why sharks are an endangered species and what can be done to help protect them.
Reptiles, Penelope Arlon and Tory Gordon-Harris.
See hundreds of up-close photos of snakes, crocodiles, lizards, and turtles, and become an instant reptile expert with the most up-to-date information.
The emperor's nightingale and other feathery tales, written and illustrated by Jane Ray.
With this extraordinary collection of stories, each featuring a bird as a central character, Jane Ray has crafted a special gift for children who love to read and be read to. Ray, an internationally renowned picture book artist, retells and stunningly illustrates a rich variety of tales from around the world.
Jimmy the joey : the true story of an amazing koala rescue, Deborah Lee Rose and Susan Kelly ; photographs by Susan Kelly.
Follows the story of an endangered baby koala who is rescued and cared for at Koala Hospital and raised by loving human caregivers among other injured koalas.
Words get knotted, Pippa Sweeny.
Dyslexia is a difficulty with words, and it is often misunderstood and sometimes unrecognised. If dyslexia remains undetected, it can affect a child's confidence and educational achievements. It is a picture book for an adult to share with a young child but the use of the visual metaphor (wool and knitting being compared to words and writing) minimizes the need for words and adds to its appeal.
Super submarines, Tony Mitton and Ant Parker.
This adventurous picture book is the tenth title in this critically acclaimed series for toddlers by the poet Tony Mitton and the illustrator Ant Parker. Young readers climb aboard a super submarine with Mouse, Rabbit, and Bird and learn what submarines do, how they do it, what makes them go down, and how they come back up again. Appealing artwork complements the lively rhyming text, and there is a helpful illustrated glossary of technical words at the end to help build vocabulary and identify what's what in super submarines!
Rubbish truck, Annabel Savery.
Find out what rubbish trucks are, what they do and how they operate, in this well-illustrated book.
Bulldozer, Annabel Savery.
Working Wheels takes a look at the exciting world of working machines and the jobs that they do. Bulldozers are big sturdy, earth-moving machines. Bulldozers clear land at construction sites, in mines and in quarries.
Machines on the farm, Siân Smith.
This book uses simple text and labelled photographs to examine a wide range of cool machines used on the farm, revealing how each machine solves a particular problem. Machines covered include tractors, combine harvesters, milking machines, hay balers, crop sprayers, and more!
Grow your own strawberries, Helen Lanz.
It's simple to grow your own strawberries! In this series find out: what equipment you will need, how to grow a healthy plant, about the science in growing plants. You can also find useful tips, nutrition facts and a recipe.
Lettuce, Helen Lanz.
It's simple to grow your own lettuce! In this book find out: what equipment you will need, how to grow a healthy plant, about the science in growing plants. You can also find useful tips, nutrition facts and a recipe.
Cows on the family farm, Chana Stiefel.
An introduction to life on a farm for early readers. Find out what a cow eats, where it lives, and when calves are born.
Sheep on the family farm, Chana Stiefel.
An introduction to an animal's life on a farm for early readers. Find out what a sheep eats, where it lives, and what they are are like on a farm.
Goats on the family farm, Chana Stiefel.
An introduction to life on a farm for early readers. Find out what a goat eats, where it lives, and how goats milk can be made into cheese.
Pigs on the family farm, Chana Stiefel.
An introduction to an animal's life on a farm for early readers. Find out what a pig eats, where it lives, and what pigs are like on a farm.
Chickens on the family farm, Chana Stiefel.
An introduction to life on a farm for early readers. Find out what a chicken eats, where it lives, and its life cycle from baby chick to chicken.
Turkeys on the family farm, Chana Stiefel.
An introduction to an animal's life on a farm for early readers. Find out what a turkey eats, where it lives, and what they are like on a farm.
Underwater dogs, Seth Casteel.
Dive right into this kids edition of Seth Casteel's amazing Underwater Dogs. With colorful photographs of the cutest canines chasing after their favourite toys and hilarious, joyful rhymes, this is a special treat for kids and adults alike.
Princess Poppy's cookbook : and other special gifts to make and share, Jane Louise Jones.
Learn how to create tiaras and finger food for your Perfect Princess Party, or get ready for the festive season with some wonderful Winter Wonderland recipe and gift ideas! There's plenty to keep you busy all through the year. With clearly illustrated step-by-step instructions, you'll be able to make (and bake) along with Poppy. So what are you waiting for? Princess Poppy can't wait to share her favourite recipes and crafts with you!
Nic's lunchbox : mouth-watering lunch for kids who love to munch!, Nicholas Brockelbank ; photographs by Nigel Beach.
Recipes for children to make for their school lunchbox by child chef Nic.
LEGO play book : ideas to bring your bricks to life, written by Daniel Lipkowitz ; photography by Gary Ombler.
From enchanted forests to rampaging robots, LEGO Play Book is packed with inspiring models and ideas from LEGO fan builders. Discover tips and tricks for better building techniques. Beat the clock with simple and speedy Quick Builds. Take on your friends with fun LEGO challenges. Spark new play ideas with story-themed chapters.
Learn to draw Angry Birds space, step-by-step illustrations by Kristina Marroquin-Burr.
Presents step-by-step instructions for drawing characters from the Angry Birds space video game.
How to draw like a fashion designer : inspirational sketchbooks tips from top designers, Celia Joicey and Dennis Nothdruft.
Features a step-by-step guide to drawing like a fashion designer. This book is aimed at young people who are keen to learn how to draw fashion figures and outfits. It explains why drawing is so important to the design process, with examples from their sketchbooks for inspiration.
My first 10 paintings, Marie Sellier ; translation by Jake Bumgardner, Elizabeth Dice, and Scott Witmer.
Invites the reader to guess a painting by looking through one to ten holes in the preceding pages.
The twelve days of Kiwi Christmas, pictures by Myles Lawford ; sung by Pio Terei ; Māori lyrics by Kotuku and Te Okahurangi Tibble.
"On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me a meat pie from the local dairy." Sing along with iconic entertainer, Pio Terei, counting the twelve days of Kiwi Christmas.
A big book of face painting, Charlotte Verrecas ; photographs by Hazel Neels.
This is a guide to face painting for children which provides essential tips based on expert knowledge. It details different materials, including paint recommendations and an explanation of brushes, and covers the techniques needed to achieve the 18 painted face designs in the book.
My Christmas crackers, Bronwen Davies.
What do monkeys sing at Christmas time? Jungle Bells! What do elves learn at school? The elfabet! What is Santa's dog called? Santa Paws! An illustrated book of Christmas jokes for all young comedians!
Trick-or-treat! : a happy haunter's Halloween, Debbie Leppanen ; illustrated by Tad Carpenter.
In this collection of fifteen poems, young readers will meet hungry ghouls, sneaky ghosts, and frisky skeletons, all who love partying in the moonlight.
Something fishy, Barry Louis Polisar ; illustrations by David Clark.
Exploring a delightful world of truly exotic and unusual sea creatures, this book is filled with intriguing facts about an array of fish and animals that live in or near the water. Written entirely in verse, Barry Louis Polisar's witty and thought-provoking poems introduce children to some of the oddest creatures in the animal kingdom, including many rare and endangered species. Children will be captivated by the lively illustrations, while learning and laughing at the clever rhymes.
Dog-gone school, Amy Schmidt ; photographs by Ron Schmidt.
Collects poems about dogs who go to school.
Because a fire was in my head : 101 poems, Michael Morpurgo ; illustrated by Quentin Blake.
A wonderful anthology of poems to set fire to the imagination. We only have to 'remember, remember the 5th of November' to see a dark night filled with fireworks and bonfires. In their many different ways through their sounds, rhythms, stories, surprises and jokes these poems will set the fireworks crackling in our own heads. Michael Morpurgo has brought together poems by writers as diverse as Spike Milligan and Louis MacNeice, Stevie Smith and John Lennon, Jo Shapcott and Lewis Carroll. Once read, they won't be forgotten some even beg to be learned by heart. This anthology will form the cornerstone to a lifetime's enjoyment of poetry.
Nelson Mandela, words and paintings by Kadir Nelson.
Presents a biography of the former South African president best known for his political activism and fight to end apartheid.
The pot that Juan Built, Nancy Andrews-Goebel ; pictures by David Diaz.
A cumulative rhyme summarizes the life's work of renowned Mexican potter, Juan Quezada. Additional information describes the process he uses to create his pots after the style of the Casas Grandes people.
Knights, James Nixon.
Impress your friends (and yourself) with just how much you know about Knights! Loads of facts and stats will bring the world of knights to life, the weapons and armour, training, fighting and medieval life. Read this book to ensure you really do Know It All! Part of the series Know It All there are eight books in this series covering everything from Cars and Pirates to Inventions and Dangerous Animals.
Australian history live! : eyewitness accounts from the past, selected and introduced by Ian Warden.
This book is a collection of virtual time-travellings back to Australia's past. Australian History Live! is a compelling look at Australian history using first person accounts as reported in the press and in journals and diaries. Included in the collection are gripping accounts of occasions both great and minor. Here you can find the heart wrenching account of a bewildered little terrier dog refusing to leave the bayoneted dead body of its master just killed at the Eureka Stockade. Read an amazing description of Bert Hinkler landing his absurdly tiny little aeroplane (he'd just flown it across the world in a world-record time) on the straight at Flemington Racecourse. Share scientist Francis Ratcliffe's experience of being caught and shaken by a very wild willy-willy.
Child convicts, Net Brennan.
At the age of seven, children in eighteenth century Britain were tried in court like adults. Some, as young as nine, were transported to the colonies. Their names may not be familiar, but one of these child convicts would become the first person hanged in Australia, another would be celebrated on our twenty-dollar note and a third would count a future prime minister as a descendant. Their story is one of survival. Their story is one of nation-building. Their story is the story of Australia.
Aosika zai hua yuan = Oscar looks in the garden, Carolyn Collis ; translated by Min Yan Yang.
Daisuki gyu gyu, Phillis Gershator and Mim Green ; illustrations, David Walker.
Pakkun ōkami otōsan ni niteru, Kimura Yasuko.
Kowagariya no shōbōsha ūkun, Nishikawa Osamu;Toda Kazuyo.

Older Fiction

The twistrose key, Tone Almhjell ; illustrated by Jan Schoenherr.
Something is wrong in the house that Lin's family has rented; Lin is sure of it. The clocks tick too slowly. Frost covers the flower bed, even in a rain storm. And when a secret key marked 'Twistrose' arrives for her, Lin finds a crack in the cellar, a gate to the world of Sylver. This frozen realm is the home of every dead animal who ever loved a child. Lin is overjoyed to be reunited with Rufus, the pet she buried under the rosebush. But together they must find the missing Winter Prince that night in order to save Sylver from destruction. They are not the only ones hunting for the boy. In the dark hides a shadow-lipped man, waiting for this last Winter Prince to be delivered into his hands. Exhilarating suspense and unforgettable characters awaits the readers of this magical adventure, destined to become a classic.
Over the moon, Frank Cottrell Boyce ; illustrated by Joe Berger.
The Tootings are stuck in 1966! Somebody's stolen Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and left them behind. But that's not their biggest problem. Their biggest problem is that Little Harry's been kidnapped by whoever nicked their magical car. There's only one solution. The Tootings must find the Potts, the family that originally built Chitty. Sharing their combined knowledge of how Chitty works, the families stand a chance of rescuing Little Harry and finding the most brilliant car in the world. But a fiendish criminal has different plans, ones that involve flying Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to the moon and putting an explosive scheme into action.
The boy on the porch, Sharon Creech.
One day a young couple wakes to find a boy asleep on their porch. Unable to speak, the boy cannot explain his history. What kind of people would leave their child with strangers? All John and Marta know is that they have been chosen to care for this boy. As their connection to him grows, they embrace his exuberant spirit and talents. The three of them blossom into an unlikely family, but how long can their happiness last?
Charlie Joe Jackson's guide to summer vacation, Tommy Greenwald ; illustrated by J.P. Coovert.
Charlie Joe Jackson is back and he's at academic summer camp trying to convert all the other kids to non-academics.
The princess and the foal, Stacy Gregg.
A novel of heart and courage inspired by the incredible story of a real life princess. A novel of heart and courage inspired by the incredible story of a real life princess. Princess Haya, daughter of the King of Jordan, loves her family more than anything. So when tragedy strikes at its heart, she is devastated. The Princess becomes ever more withdrawn until, on her birthday, the King gives her a life-changing present. An incredible new friendship grows and the heartbroken princess begins to dream of an extraordinary future. Inspired by the real-life story of Olympic equestrienne Princess Haya Al Hussein and set against the exotic backdrop of Arabia, this novel is destined to become a modern classic.
The storybook of legends, Shannon Hale.
At Ever After High, a boarding school for the sons and daughters of famous fairy-tale characters, students Apple White and Raven Queen face the moment when they must choose whether to follow their destinies, or change them.
Handbook for dragon slayers, Merrie Haskell.
Thirteen-year-old Princess Matilda, whose lame foot brings fear of the evil eye, has never given much thought to dragons, attending instead to her endless duties and wishing herself free of her royal responsibilities. When a greedy cousin steals Tilda's lands, the young princess goes on the run with two would-be dragon slayers. Before long she is facing down the Wild Hunt, befriending magical horses, and battling flame-spouting dragons. On the adventure of a lifetime, and caught between dreams of freedom and the people who need her, Tilda learns more about dragons — and herself — than she ever imagined.
The sundew stalks, Johanna Knox ; illustrated by Sabrina Malcolm.
Most BodySlam wrestlers lead two lives… Tora de Ronde leads three. As her secret third life draws her into a dangerous mystery, she must help a captive scientist, rescue mutant carnivorous plants, and outwit the nastiest wrestlers she knows. Meanwhile, the secrets are piling up.
Gabriel's clock, Hilton Pashley.
Jonathan is in terrible danger. After his home is attacked by faceless monsters in bowler hats, he wakes up in the strange village of Hobbes End. Built by a fallen angel and hidden deep within a forest, Hobbes End protects those who need to be safe and nobody is more in need of protection than Jonathan.
Oliver and the seawigs, Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre.
Oliver grew up in a family of explorers but his biggest adventure is about to begin! Along with his new friends, a grumpy old albatross, a short-sighted mermaid and a friendly island called Cliff, Oliver goes off in search of his missing parents. But before he can put his rescue plan into action there's the evil Stacey de Lacey and an army of greasy, green sea monkeys to contend with.
The House of Hades, Rick Riordan.
The House of Hades is the fourth book in the bestselling Heroes of Olympus series, set in the action-packed world of Percy Jackson. The stakes have never been higher. If Percy Jackson and Annabeth fail in their quest, there'll be hell on Earth. Literally. Wandering the deadly realm of Tartarus, every step leads them further into danger. And, if by some miracle they do make it to the Doors of Death, there's a legion of bloodthirsty monsters waiting for them. Meanwhile, Hazel and the crew of the Argo II have a choice: to stop a war or save their friends. Whichever road they take one thing is certain - in the Underworld, evil is inescapable.
When did you see her last?, Lemony Snicket ; art by Seth.
In the fading town of Stain'd-by-the-Sea, young apprentice Lemony Snicket has a new case to solve when he and his chaperone are hired to find a missing girl. Is the girl a runaway? Or was she kidnapped? Was she seen last at the grocery store? Or could she have stopped at the diner? Is it really any of your business? These are All The Wrong Questions.
Lighthouse family : coastal New Zealand, 1941-42, Philippa Werry.
For Frances and her family, living on a lighthouse, the war is both far away and scarily close. There are rumours of submarines in the Pacific. The Japanese have attacked Pearl Harbor, taken Singapore and bombed Darwin, so what's to stop them invading New Zealand next? But soon Frances, the only girl on the island, will have more to worry about than the threat of a Japanese invasion.

Picture Books

Animal 123.
This lovely hardcover features gorgeously detailed, vintage-style illustrations of a menagerie of animals. Features numbers small and large, and animals both exotic and commonplace. Count 2 gorgeous parrots or 8 salamander, and be dazzled by spreads of eighty ladybirds or ninety penguins.A book to pore over.
Animal ABC.
This lovely hardcover features gorgeously detailed, vintage-style illustrations of a menagerie of animals both exotic and commonplace, so that C is for cheetah, camel, chameleon as well as crab and caterpillars. A book to pore over.
Rainbow Rob : packed with wacky characters, funny rhymes and lots to touch and feel.
Follow Rob the penguin on this crazy, colourful adventure packed with wacky characters, funny rhymes and lots to touch and feel.
Fat Ferdie, Pamela Allen.
Fat Ferdie is a monster you won't forget! Fat Ferdie is a scary beast because of what he likes to eat. Read the book and you will see that his dinner climbs a tree! Scary but fun. Another Pamela Allen book for you to share with the very young.
Little big, Jonathan Bentley.
Being little is no good. That's because being big is better. Except when being little is best of all.
Rich witch, poor witch, written by Peter Bently ; illustrated by Jim Field.
Twin sisters Witch Rose and Witch Rita are relaxing at home when the king arrives at Rita's front door looking terribly worried. The princess is refusing to smile! Will Witch Rita be able to solve the problem by conjuring up exquisite tiaras, fabulous frocks and boxes of chocs? Or will Witch Rose save the day with a very different approach?
A, B, sea : a deep sea symphony, Dianna Bonder.
Dianna Bonder's whimsical alphabet picture books have been capturing the hearts and minds of our earliest readers for over 10 years. Now, in this all-new picture book, Dianna illustrates the ocean, capturing the spirit and beauty of sea creatures throughout the world. A, B, Sea moves and grooves as it brings a whole underwater orchestra to life blowfish blowing bassoons, flounderfish with flutes, a percussionist pike that pounds through the night it's a medley of colour, sound and rhythm. With detailed jam-packed illustrations of dozens of ocean creatures and a myriad of musical instruments, accompanied by alphabet verse that is both educational and entertaining, A, B, Sea is sure to engage children who are learning to read as well as the older folk who read to them. This is an alphabet book that children will want to open while mastering their abcs and to keep in their collection long after they've made reading a way of life.
Love Monster & the perfect present, Rachel Bright.
Love is in the air again for Love Monster in this heart-tingling story from phenomenal, award-winning picture book talent Rachel Bright! It's Present Day in Cutesville, and Love Monster is on the lookout for something shiny for someone wonderful. But wonderful, shinyful things can be very expensive. What is a Love Monster to do? A heart-warming remember-the-important-things-in-life story about how presents don't have to cost the earth to mean the world!
What if—?, Anthony Browne.
Joe is nervous about his first big party, and as Mum walks him along the darkening street to his friend's house, his imagination starts to run wild. They search for the right place, looking through the windows, wondering "What if…?" while making surprising discoveries along the way.
Big Bear's big boat, Eve Bunting ; illustrated by Nancy Carpenter.
When Big Bear outgrows his old boat, he gives it to Little Bear and builds himself a new one just like it except bigger until his friends start making suggestions that result in something very different.
Counting sheep, Kathryn Cave, Chris Riddell.
When Tom finds it hard to get to sleep, counting sheep is just the beginning — counting pythons and pirates, vampire bats and ghosts is a lot more fun. Readers are led on a wild and woolly counting adventure that goes all the way up to a hundred.
Plaidypus lost, Janet Stevens and Susan Stevens Crummel.
When a young child takes her favorite toy along to the park, the market, and the lake, and for a car ride, she mistakenly leaves him behind.
Dinosaur rescue!, Penny Dale.
When a crew of builder dinosaurs break down on a level crossing, they know the only thing they can do to save themselves is to call Dinosaur Rescue! In no time at all, help is on its way, but will the Dinosaur Rescue team get there in time to stop the train?
Strega Nona does it again, Tomie dePaola.
Strega Nona has the perfect remedy for a houseguest who overstays her welcome.
The Snatchabook, story by Helen Docherty ; illustrated by Thomas Docherty.
The woodland animals of Burrow Down are ready for a bedtime story, but where are the books?
Forever, Emma Dodd.
Presents a bedtime tale that reveals how the love between a parent and child lasts forever.
Boats, Catherine Foreman.
Children love machines! This series of simple, well-written stories has a bold, clean illustration style perfect for the target age group, by the award-winning author/illustrator Catherine Foreman. Children love machines! The Machines and Me series of four simple, well written stories has a bold, clean illustration style perfect for the target age group, by the award-winning author/ illustrator Catherine Foreman.
Trains, Catherine Foreman.
Children love machines! The Machines and Me series of four simple, well written stories has a bold, clean illustration style perfect for the target age group, by the award-winning author/ illustrator Catherine Foreman.
Spike : Ugliest Dog in the Universe, Debra Frasier.
Winning the Ugliest Dog in the Universe contest was awful for Spike, but when the cat Evangeline is threatened by a thief, Spike proves that he is also good-hearted, loyal, smart, and much more.
Collette the Cow : an Olive & Moss book : colours, Nina Govan.
Have fun in the sun with Louis the Lion, make some music with Michael the Monkey, drop in for tea with Margot and Mo and meet all the animals with Collette the Cow! Join these four characters on an early-learning journey of colours, shapes, numbers and noises which is rewarding for both parent and child.
The mice in the churchyard, Kes Gray ; illustrations by Sally Anne Lambert.
Using tombstones for tables and headstones for seating, The neighbourhood cats called a mice-catching meeting. What are the churchyard cats to do? There are mice running all over the place and they need to be stopped! But mouse catching is not as easy as you'd think, and the cats soon find that no matter how many times they try, they always end up with empty paws.
What can you stack on the back of a Yak?, Alison Green ; illustrated by Adam Stower.
Captain Quack and his trusty yak deliver the post to the mountains and back. At least, that's the idea. But Yak keeps picking up friends along the way… stranded baa-lambs, lost chickens and even some hitch-hiking rabbits! But just how much can Yak really stack on his back?
Keep out!, Sally Grindley and Peter Utton.
Based on Goldilocks and The Three Bears, Keep Out! physically involves the reader in the narrative and adventure. Can you get through the book without coming face-to-face with a scary bear? What will you do if you see one? Why shut the book of course! Young children can lift the flaps as they follow the adventure.
How many pets?, Chloe & Mick Inkpen.
How many pets can you see? Join Zoe and Beans and their new friend Oscar as they count the animals, from one to ten. There's a hungry rabbit, a kitten, a duck a puppy and even a cow! But will there be enough room for them all? The start of a brilliant new series of board books featuring the adorable Zoe and Beans and all of their friends. With its gentle rhyming text, beautiful artwork and familiar and funny animals, this book is perfect for sharing with toddlers and young children.
Wibbly Pig and the Tooky, Mick Inkpen.
Big Pig's sister should have bought a cuddly toy at the zoo but instead she's put Tooky in her backpack. Tooky's not a toy. He's a toucan. A real toucan. And he's soon causing chaos. How will Wibbly and his friends ever get Tooky home? Wibbly is one of the most popular characters on CBeebies and his latest picture book adventure is bound to be a firm favourite with preschoolers.
It wasn't me, Belinda Jeffrey.
This is a cheeky, colourful and humorous story told through beautifully detailed collage pictures about a naughty child called Finnigan. His catch phrase, 'It wasn't me!' echoes through the house every time his mother discovers something amiss! Whether it is an overflowing bathtub, a drawing on the wall, an overturned flowerpot or a messy bedroom, Finnigan really believes that it wasn't him who created these problems. But if it wasn't Finnigan, then who was it?
The cat with seven names, Tony Johnston ; illustrated by Christine Davenier.
A wandering cat brightens the lives of six lonely people and persuades all of them to feed him until a near accident brings them all together.
How big were dinosaurs?, Lita Judge.
Dinosaurs and modern life collide in a very young picture book that clearly illustrates how big dinosaurs really were.
The twelve days of Christmas Island, written and illustrated by Teresa Lagrange.
An Australian Christmas and counting book that celebrates the unique birdlife that inhabits this remote and wildly beautiful island.
What am I? Where am I?, Ted Lewin.
This easy reader introduces five animals and their habitats. A lion, reindeer, camel, sea lion, and tiger are presented through peekaboolike circles under the heading, "What am I?" A page turn reveals the full creature: "I am a lion. Where am I?" Turn the page again and two lionesses are shown sitting in a grassland. The simple questions repeat for each creature.
Planes fly!, George Ella Lyon ; illustrations by Mick Wiggins.
Illustrations and easy-to-read rhyming text celebrate different kinds of planes, their instruments, what they carry, and what it is like to go for a flight.
Madeline and the old house in Paris, John Bemelmans Marciano.
When Lord Cucuface, head of Madeline's school, takes a telescope from the attic during a surprise inspection, its ghostly owner convinces Madeline to help get it back, with help from neighbor Pepito and her fellow orphans.
The whitebait wriggle, Amber McEwan ; illustrated by Stephanie Bowman.
Join our tiny whitebait as they undertake their quest to find a home. Share in the wonder as Ian, Billy and Ginny and Keri and Sheri grow into five beautiful native fish.
Holy Socks, Dawn McMillan ; illustrated by Philip Webb.
One Christmas Eve, some years ago, a ginger kitten wandered along a street on the far side of town. He was hungry, and cold and wet. Bertie McGinty finds the kitten and christens him Holy Socks. Soon the pair is inseparable. Even after Bertie's death, Holy Socks sticks by his master and takes up home in the church near his grave. Captivated by Holy Socks as she sits in church, young Christie calls out, "Can I keep the cat?" Father John, by way of answer, tells everyone the story of Holy Socks.
A perfect chirpy Christmas, story by Kyle Mewburn ; illustrations by Patrick McDonald.
A beautiful, gentle Christmas story, with the message being that it's family and friends that are most important. Flit longs to have a white Christmas with snowbirds, ice-skating and sleigh bells. You can't have these in the warm south so he travels far to the northern hemisphere where he hopes to have the perfect Christmas. It's not that easy and Flit learns to share with others. His Christmas holds all the magic he wished for, but it's still not right. Back home he delights in his southern hemisphere Christmas with family and friends.
Princess Penelope and the runaway kitten, Alison Murray.
Princess Penelope's naughty little kitten is all tangled up in wool and has scampered off! Little girls will love helping her track the trail of pretty pink glitter left by her kitten as it runs though the palace and grounds, encountering lots of other animals friends along the way. "In Royaltown Palace one long, lazy day, Princess Penelope wanted to play. But Daddy was reading and Mummy was knitting, so she thought she'd make friends with the mischievous kitten. Penelope giggled the kitten looked funny with pink wool all tangled around his white tummy."
A is for Auckland, Diane Newcombe & Melissa Anderson Scott.
Alphabet picture book about Auckland, with illustrations of landmarks from the Auckland area. It covers natural landmarks like Rangitoto, the Waitakeres and various coastlines; man-made landmarks such as the Sky Tower, the Civic theatre, the zoo and Jellicoe Park.
Animal ABC, Marcus Pfister.
Playful rhymes highlight the distinctive features of each animal, allowing little listeners to guess its name.
Let's make faces, Hanoch Piven.
Learn how to find faces in unexpected places using everyday objects.
How to lose a lemur, Frann Preston-Gannon.
By the much-loved author of The Journey Home and Dinosaur Farm. Everyone knows that once a lemur takes a fancy to you there is not much that can be done about it. While being followed by lemurs one day, a boy tries hiding up a tree (without luck), disguising himself (without success) and even tries to sail off in a boat to get away from them only to discover the lemurs snorkeling behind him. Eventually, after climbing mountains, taking trains and going through the air in a balloon, he finally thinks that he has lost them. Or has he? In the process, he has managed to get himself lost, and it is only then that he realizes that the cunning lemurs might just be helpful after all.
Sing, lyrics and music by Joe Raposo ; story in pictures by Tom Lichtenheld.
An illustrated presentation of the classic Sesame Street song about self-expression and the celebration of music.
Daisy gets lost, Chris Raschka.
A young dog experiences the fear of being lost and the joys of being found when she becomes separated from her owner.
Abigail, Catherine Rayner.
Abigail the giraffe wants to count the spots on her animal friends, Ladybug, Zebra, and Cheetah, but when they move too fast for counting, Abigail comes up with a new plan.
Send for a superhero!, Michael Rosen, Katharine McEwen.
It's time for bed and Dad is reading Emily and little Elmer a story. "Danger! Filth and Vacuum, The Terrible Two, are trying to destroy the world!" Who will save the day? Steel Man isn't strong enough; Flying-Through-the-Air-Very-Fast-Man isn't fast enough and Incredibly-Big-Strong-Green-Man isn't big, strong and green enough. Who can help?
The dragon tamers : book two of the Dragon Brothers trilogy, words by James Russell ; pictures by Link Choi.
Brothers Flynn and Paddy find a map in the attic and decide to take a look at Dragon Hatchery.
Bedtime monsters, Josh Schneider.
A young boy conquers his fear of bedtime monsters after making a surprising discovery.
Sir Charlie Stinky Socks and the wizard's whisper, Kristina Stephenson.
Once upon a whisper a wizard made his way from a tall, tall tower to a castle on top of a hill. A mysterious whisper had told him that in the castle was a legendary knight who had helped dragons, monsters and kings. Who could this perfect knight possibly be? Why, Sir Charlie Stinky Socks of course! And he's looking for adventure. But ogres, scallywags and pirates are lying in wait, ready to thwart Sir Charlie at every turn!
Up & down, Britta Teckentrup.
Little Penguin goes to visit his friend, and the journey involves lots of opposites over and under, high and low, and of course up and down. Each spread features a unique flap that illustrates the opposites and makes reading this story an interactive experience.
Winnie's pirate adventure, Valerie Tomas and Korky Paul.
When Winnie and Wilbur arrive at Cousin Cuthbert's party dressed as a pirate and a parrot, they discover a whole crew in fancy dress, eager for excitement on the high seas! Winnie is ready with her magic to whisk her shipmates aboard, but will they be back with the treasure before the party's over?
The boring book, Vasanti Unka.
When the words in a tedious tome decide that life is just too dull, they escape. The world will never be the same again. The words jump into street signs, they leap onto shop signs, they decorate pathways and roadways and ponds. But one day they go too far…

Younger Fiction

A question of magic, E.D. Baker.
Serafina is summoned from her village to the magical cottage of a great aunt she has never heard of and learns that she is meant to become the new Baba Yaga, whose magical role is answering the first question any stranger might ask her with the truth.
A book is a book, written by Jenny Bornholdt ; illustrated by Sarah Wilkins.
This book asks 'what is a book?' It celebrates books and reading. Although 'told' from a child's view, it captures the value and magic of books felt by all voracious readers.
The amazing tale of Ali Pasha, Michael Foreman.
On 6th May 1915, Henry Friston, a 21-year-old seaman, rejoined his battleship after ten days in Hell. Hell was just 180 metres long and seven metres wide and was otherwise known only as 'X Beach', Gallipoli. Henry, ferrying the wounded from the battlefield, had not eaten or slept for three days. Then, somehow, in the midst of the bombardments, he met an unlikely companion — a tortoise.
Barry's best buddy : a Toon book, Renée French.
Polarhog takes his reluctant best friend on a walk while a surprise is brewing.
In the fast lane!, written by Shirley Hughes ; illustrated by Clara Vulliamy.
Introducing Dixie O'Day and also, of course, his friend Percy! This dashing duo are always getting into adventures - here they enter the All-Day Car Race little knowing what is ahead of them! Dixie and Percy run into all sorts of peril, as does their arch enemy, Lou Ella. But who will win, and will Lou Ella get her comeuppance?
Freaky families, Diana Wynne Jones ; illustrated by Marion Lindsay.
The four grannies: Two children are left alone for a couple of days, while their parents go away on a business trip. They have four very different grandmas a mean one, a snobby one, an anxious one, and a delicate one. Erg (the boy) tries to make all the grannies leave him alone, but manages to turn them into one 'Super-Granny'. Auntie Bea's day out: Annoying Auntie Bea always does things her way. And when she decides to take the three children (Nancy, Debbie and Simon) to the seaside, despite what the signs say, she is determined that they will sit on the small, fenced off and isolated island. It turns out to be a magical island though, and whisks her & the children (and dog) around to different places trying to get rid of them.
The mischievians, William Joyce.
Dr. Zooper answers questions about life's ordinary puzzles, such as why homework disappears or how a song gets stuck in one's head, by identifying and describing different kinds of Mischievians.
Pinocchio, Pinocchio, Michael Morpurgo ; illustrated by Emma Chichester Clark.
Now there's no point in pretending here I was, and still am deep down, a puppet. Everyone knows Pinocchio is a puppet. I reckon I must be just about the most famous puppet the world has ever known. But the truth is I'm not just a puppet, I'm more than just bits of wood and string. I'm me. So I thought it was about time that I, Pinocchio, told you my story.
Mouse mansion. Sam & Julia at the theatre, conceived, created and written by Karina Schaapman ; photographed by Eddo Hartmann.
Join Sam and Julia, two young mice who are very different but the best of friends, as they discover the spectacular world of the Mouse Mansion.