Recreation

New Titles Children’s March 2013 (arrived in February)

Audio Visual

Big questions from little people answered by some very big people [sound recording], compiled by Gemma Elwin Harris.
Many of the questions children ask in the course of growing up can stump even the best educated adult: Why can't I tickle myself? Are we all related? Who named all the cities? Do aliens exist? What makes me me? Is it okay to eat a worm? Who invented chocolate? If the universe started from nothing, how did it become something? How do you fall in love? Who is God? How do chefs get ideas for recipes? Why are some people mean? This charming and informative collection has been compiled from schoolchildren's actual questions, which are answered by the world's greatest experts, including Mary Roach, Richard Dawkins, Philip Pullman, Bear Grylls, David Eagleman, Philippa Gregory, Noam Chomsky and Mario Batali.
Hotel Transylvania (DVD), directed by Genndy Tartakovsky,
The Hotel Transylvania, run by Dracula, is a unique, high-end resort catering only to the finest monsters and their families. Dracula is preparing for an extra special weekend - his daughter Mavis's 118th birthday - when trouble arises: a human has stumbled upon the resort for the first time ever! Even worse: the human has taken a liking to Mavis!
The love bug (DVD), directed by Robert Stevenson.
Herbie is a one-of-a-kind Volkswagen with a mind of his own and a talent for getting his owner into hilariously harrowing situations.
The Muppets (DVD), directed by James Bobin.
While on vacation in Los Angeles, Walter and his friends, Gary and Mary, try to raise ten million dollars to save the Muppet Theater from Tex Richman, a business man who wants to demolish the theatre in order to drill for oil.
Tinker Bell and the secret of the wings (DVD).
From the world of Disney fairies comes an all-new movie for the whole family that unlocks an amazing secret about Tinker Bell that will change her life forever. Join Tinker Bell and the rest of your favourite fairies in a magical adventure that leads them to discover a new winter fairy world and reveals new winter fairy characters.
Disney Pixar all time favourites [sound recording].
Walt Disney Records presents the all time favourite songs and scores from favourite Disney-Pixar films in one CD. The album includes music from Toy Story 1, 2, and 3, Cars 1 & 2, Brave, Finding Nemo, and more!
Let's play (DVD), Hi-5.
Your favourite Hi-5 friends are back with another fantastic, playful and musical adventure that will leave you bouncing around with energy! Lets Play! is full of fun ways to stay fit, playful games like giant snakes and ladders and the grooviest ways of making music! Join musical King Xavier, marvelous Moose Kiki and Jaya Peacock on their zany adventures. Be part of the fun as your best playmates in the world Casey, Fely, Lauren, Stevie and Tim put the groove back into playtime! So what are you waiting for? Lets Play!
123 [sound recording] : learn to count with songs and rhymes, written by Anita Loughrey.
Sing along together! Catchy tunes help you learn to count in a fun and exciting way. There's even a cool way to test your learning -- with interactive counting to show how clever you are. Learning has never been so much fun.
ABC [sound recording] : learn the alphabet with songs and rhymes, written by Anita Loughrey.
Enjoy learning your letters with the help of songs! Sing along to your favourite tunes -- while learning the alphabet too. Jam-packed with fun, you'll find questions to test your learning. Have fun with phonics. Learn the alphabet through the sounds of each letter, from A all the way to Z. A fun way for preschoolers to learn their alphabet with songs and rhymes.
Chuggington. Chug-a-sonic! (DVD).
Trainee engines Brewster, Koko and Wilson just love pretending to be Action Chugger, Chuggington's very own jet-propelled film star. So any chance to meet their real life super-hero is just the ticket! In these fantastic adventures they get to do just that as Koko and Brewster put their stunt skills to use and Action Chugger crashes on the way to the film set. The superhero takes Hodge into space and learns to be an 'ordinary' Chugger while Brewster is inspired to make his own film. Meanwhile there's more traintastic excitement as a dangerous bridge threatens to ruin Brewster's big day and Toot plays sick to avoid track inspection with her twin brother Hoot.
White dolphin [sound recording], Gill Lewis.
Bullied at school for her dyslexia and troubled by her mother's unexplained disappearance, Kara seeks sanctuary sailing the ocean's waves in her father's boat. Meanwhile, Felix resents his well-meaning parents for dragging him to live by the coast and misses his old friends back in London. On their first encounter, Kara and Felix take an immediate dislike to each other. But when they happen to discover a dolphin calf stranded on the beach they know they must work together to save it against all odds. Realizing they have more in common than they could ever have guessed, the two friends set out to find the truth behind the disappearance of Kara's marine biologist mother, and to protect the delicate reef in the bay of their home town from the destruction of commercial dredging. Their actions set in motion a dramatic chain of events that no one could have foreseen. And soon they must make an impossible choice. Risk their own lives or face losing everything.
Five children and It [sound recording], E. Nesbit.
When four brothers and sisters discover a Psammead, or sand-fairy, in the gravel pit near the country house where they are staying, they have no way of knowing all the adventures its wish-granting will bring them.
The smallest horse in the world [sound recording], Jeremy Strong.
Paddington races ahead [sound recording], Michael Bond.
Paddington the beloved, classic bear from Darkest Peru is back. "My legs are a bit short for the pole vault!" repeated Paddington hotly. "But they've always been that way." Somehow Paddington Bear always manages to find himself in unusual situations. So it is no surprise when he gets into a spot of bother with some shaving cream, causes a London bus to be evacuated, and is mistaken for a famous Peruvian hurdler by a film crew. There's never a dull moment when a certain bear is around!
Two Flat Stanley stories [sound recording], Jeff Brown.
The Windvale sprites [sound recording], Mackenzie Crook.
When a storm sweeps through the country, Asa wakes up the next day to find that his town is almost unrecognisable - trees have fallen down, roofs have collapsed and debris lies everywhere. But amongst the debris in his back garden Asa makes an astounding discovery - the body of a small winged creature. A creature that looks very much like a fairy.
Roodica the Rude and the chariot challenge [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!
Roodica the rude. Who stole the river? [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!
Mr Gum and the biscuit billionaire [sound recording], Andy Stanton.
Good evening. OK, this book's a bit hard to describe. There's this gingerbread man with electric muscles, see? And he's as rich as a mushroom, right? And Mr. Gum and Billy William are planning to get the cash, yeah? And it's up to Polly to save the day. And there's a funfair and hot dogs, and Friday O'Leary shouts out some crazy stuff, and… hey, that wasn't so hard to describe after all.
Mr Gum and the goblins [sound recording], Andy Stanton.
Good evening, brave listener! But you are brave enough to join Polly and Friday as they climb Goblin mountain to battle the forces of evil? For be warned. This book is full of swords and trolls and witches and a thing that looks like a gherkin. And somehow that old roo-de-lally Mr Gum is all mixed up in it too. Shabba me whiskers, it's a Burpin Epic!
Mr Gum and the power crystals [sound recording], Andy Stanton.
Can it really be true that there's an ancient curse on the town of Lamonic Bibber? And you guessed it, that old roo-de-lally Mr Gum and his trusty sidekick Billy William the Third have something to do with it. But… our favourite heroes Polly and Friday and the gingerbread biscuit Alan Taylor (only 15.24 cm tall) are determined to save the town!
You're a bad man, Mr Gum! [sound recording], Andy Stanton.
Good evening. Mr Gum is a complete horror who hates children, animals, fun and corn on the cob. This book's all about him. And an angry fairy who lives in his bathtub. And Jake the dog, and a little girl called Polly and an evil stinky butcher who's all covered in guts. And there's heroes and sweets and adventures and a massive fat bloke called Jonathan Ripples and EVERYTHING.
Penguin pandemonium. The rescue [sound recording], Jeanne Willis.
Two baby penguins are missing and the rest of the City Zoo penguins set out across the zoo on a daring rescue mission. They hang with the monkeys, fish for clues in the aquarium and try not to get spotted by the leopard in a fast-paced adventure full of fun.

Into Reading

Best summer ever, written by Eve Bunting ; illustrated by Josee Masse.
Frog enjoys a summer with his friends as he compares himself to a bat, takes a vacation, and meets a Starman who helps him to see the night sky in a new way.
The animals' football camp, Clare De Marco and Trevor Dunton.
Jungle United are training hard at a special camp. But Lion thinks he is already brilliant and refuses to train with the others. Will he ever learn to play as part of a team? The Leapfrog series is perfect for children who are reading on their own, with fun stories of no more than 180 words.
Bill's silly hat, Susan Gates ; illustrated by Anni Axworthy.
Bill's gran has knitted him a new hat. But he hates it! Everyone is laughing at him. Will he ever get rid of it without upsetting Gran? The Leapfrog series is perfect for children who are reading on their own, with fun stories of no more than 200 words.
Detective Chase McCain : stop that heist!, Trey King ; illustrated by Kenny Kiernan.
When the smartest crooks in Lego City plot to rob the museum of its priceless blue diamond, it is up to Detective Chase McCain and his swat team to save the day!
The princess and the frozen peas, Laura North and Joelle Dreidemy.
Inventive and amusing new twists on the classic fairy tales told by top authors.
Moody Margaret's makeover, Francesca Simon ; illustrated by Tony Ross.
Anything Moody Margaret can do, Horrid Henry can do better. So when Margaret starts giving her friends makeovers, Henry decides to steal no, borrow! her idea. He is sure he can do it much, much better. It can't be that hard to make people look really fantastic can it?

Non-Fiction

Going to Mecca, Na'ima B. Robert ; illustrated by Valentina Cavallini.
We are led on the journey of a lifetime to the city of Mecca - the pilgrimage known to Muslims as the Hajj. The pilgrims walk with heads bare and feet in sandals; they call to Allah; they kiss or point to the Black Stone, as the Prophet did. Arriving at Mecca, they surge round the Ka'aba, shave their heads and travel to Mount Arafat. Finally, though their bodies are tired and aching, their spirits are uplifted, knowing that with thousands of others they have performed the sacred pilgrimage. This is a window on to a sacred journey for Muslims the world over beautifully described and illustrated for younger children.
You are stardust, Elin Kelsey ; artwork by Soyeon Kim.
Introduces readers to the extensive and surprising ways in which they are connected to the natural world around them.
I have a dream, Martin Luther King, Jr. ; paintings by Kadir Nelson.
An illustrated edition of Martin Luther King's famous "I have a dream" speech.
The A-Z of 13 habits, [story written by Lucas Remmerswaal ; original art and illustrations by Annette Lodge].
"The choice of Warren Buffet as the focus of the A-Z of 13 Habits helps underline the importance of decency, learning, and communication — and the 13 Habits can relate to so much more than understanding money. The story is about a child growing up to become one of our most successful innovators in investment based on decent principles, attention to effort, and love of learning — an illustration of the key parts of life-long learning in action. The message is it is NOT about the money, but about behaviors, attitudes, and thought processes that relate to the resources around us — money, the planet, home and friends. These "big and rich" habits can be understood by even the youngest of children, as Lucas has demonstrated via focus groups with five to thirteen year olds" — Dr. John Hattie, Professor of Education, Director of Visible Learning Labs (taken from 13habits.org website)
Improving vocabulary for ages 10-11, Andrew Brodie.
Series of photocopiable books to use both as a tool for extending vocabulary and as a stimulus for speaking and listening activities. Each book will feature sets of illustration cards together with matching word cards, becoming increasingly complex throughout the series. Teachers will use the cards as the focus for discussion sessions, in which they will ask the pupils to identify the illustration which best represents each word. Pupils will be encouraged to explain why they feel that word is most appropriate. Pupils will use the cards to play matching games, etc.
Improving vocabulary for ages 7-8, Andrew Brodie.
Series of photocopiable books to use both as a tool for extending vocabulary and as a stimulus for speaking and listening activities. Each book will feature sets of illustration cards together with matching word cards, becoming increasingly complex throughout the series. Teachers will use the cards as the focus for discussion sessions, in which they will ask the pupils to identify the illustration which best represents each word. Pupils will be encouraged to explain why they feel that word is most appropriate. Pupils will use the cards to play matching games, etc.
Improving vocabulary for ages 8-9, Andrew Brodie.
Series of photocopiable books to use both as a tool for extending vocabulary and as a stimulus for speaking and listening activities. Each book will feature sets of illustration cards together with matching word cards, becoming increasingly complex throughout the series. Teachers will use the cards as the focus for discussion sessions, in which they will ask the pupils to identify the illustration which best represents each word. Pupils will be encouraged to explain why they feel that word is most appropriate. Pupils will use the cards to play matching games, etc.
Improving vocabulary for ages 9-10, Andrew Brodie.
Series of photocopiable books to use both as a tool for extending vocabulary and as a stimulus for speaking and listening activities. Each book will feature sets of illustration cards together with matching word cards, becoming increasingly complex throughout the series. Teachers will use the cards as the focus for discussion sessions, in which they will ask the pupils to identify the illustration which best represents each word. Pupils will be encouraged to explain why they feel that word is most appropriate. Pupils will use the cards to play matching games, etc.
My first Chinese New Year, Karen Katz.
A girl and her family prepare for and celebrate Chinese New Year.
The fir tree, Hans Christian Andersen ; illustrated by Sanna Annukka.
Hans Christian Andersen's tragic tale of naive greed and dissatisfaction is retold through the beautiful and intricate illustrations of Finnish illustrator Sanna Annukka. Cloth-bound in rich forest green, with gold foil embellishments, this title is a work of art.
The ant and the grasshopper, Rebecca Emberley and Ed Emberley.
In this version of the classic fable, a weary ant is energized by the swinging sounds of a grasshopper and his "buggy" band.
Twelve dancing princesses, retold by Mary Hoffmann ; illustrated by Miss Clara.
Twelve lively, lovely princesses have twelve pairs of slippers which are in rags and tatters every morning. The palace shoemakers are worn out, and so are the princesses. Will the poor soldier who comes to the palace door find out their secret, or will he lose his head?
Maya and the turtle : [a Korean fairy tale], Soma Han and John C. Stickler ; illustrated by Soma Han.
In this charming original fairy tale, children learn that the road to greatness lies in selflessness and that the loving kindness of a pure heart can awaken great love and power in another. Maya's mother is a gentle soul. When she dies she bequeaths her daughter the task of caring for her father and for herself. For her mother once had a dream that Maya was meant for great things, and it was the kind of dream that always comes true. Although she is poor, Maya grows kinder and more beautiful with each passing year. One day, she finds a little turtle and takes him home, raising and caring for him, never knowing that he will play a part in her destiny. Beautifully illustrated and filled with fascinating nuggets of information about Korean culture, this book offers a poignant tale of the rewards of kindness, patience, courage, and a loving heart, and a lesson in how true glory even if foretold must be earned.
How do you say 'thank you'?, Karamia Muller ; illustrations by Mark Paterson.
Alofa and Filipo want to learn gagana Samoa so at bedtime they ask their parents how to say various things in the Samoan language. Suggested level: junior.
Alphasaurs and other prehistoric types, Sharon Werner and Sarah Forss.
Using letters and an artful assortment of typefaces, Werner and Forss create a menagerie of dinosaurs and pack each page with captivating dino-facts.
Survival at 40 above, Debbie S. Miller ; illustrated by Jon Van Zyle.
Travel to one of the hottest places in the world, and discover the amazing animals who call the desert home. Meet the unique creatures of the Australian desert, from the sand goanna and red kangaroo, and find out just how these incredible creatures have adapted to survive in temperatures as high as 40 degrees! Packed with fantastic illustrations which beautifully depict these animals and their desert habitat, this title will captivate, amaze and inform readers.
At the beach : explore & discover the New Zealand seashore, Ned Barraud & Gillian Candler.
At the Beach is a delightful introduction to the natural history of the New Zealand seashore. The stage is set with beautiful, factually correct illustrations (including detailed cross-sections) of three familiar habitats - the sandy beach, rockpools and mudflats. Many of the plants and animals that play a part in these rich ecosystems are shown in situ, and readers are directed from there to pages dedicated to detailed coverage of: crabs; sea stars, kina and sea anemones; shellfish; seaweeds, sponges and sandhoppers; fish, jellyfish & shrimps; birds. Aimed at children 5-8 years old, but with appeal for anyone curious about New Zealand's natural environment, At the Beach is a must for the home, bach, classroom and library. Comes with a removable, waterproof quick-reference guide to common seashore animals.
It's our nature, text by Rebeca Orozco ; illustrated by Menena Cottin.
A unique look at the social behavior of wild animals for very young children.
Tales of famous animals, Peter and Connie Roop ; illustrations by Zachary Pullen.
Learn about the incredible accomplishments of famous animals.
Safari : [a photicular book], photicular images by Dan Kainen ; written by Carol Kaufmann.
A magical journey where readers encounter eight animals that come alive. Using an innovative lenticular-based technology, precision sliding lenses, and original four-colour video imagery, each image is like a 3-D movie on the page, delivering a rich and fluid visual experience.
Big cats, Claire Llewellyn.
Explorers are designed to appeal to all readers aged 6-8: those who are just starting to read alone and more confident readers who are beginning to exercise wider reading and crossreferencing skills. Lively, dramatic artwork scenes draw children into a subject, and each scene is followed by a photographic information spread that gives a wealth of extra detail. As a fun extra element, the reader can follow themed links to access information on related topics. Big Cats is an adventure to discover the secrets and stories of these amazing mammals, from lions in the savannah to snow leopards in the mountaintops, meeting big cats all over the world.
Recycled robots : 10 robot projects, Robert A. Malone.
It's our garden : from seeds to harvest in a school garden, George Ancona.
Presents a portrait of a Santa Fe community garden, revealing how students and other citizens work together to select and grow annual plants, create compost, release butterflies, harvest edibles, and protect garden beds for the winter.
Home, Ifeoma Onyefulu.
Cooking pot, stool, basket, water pot and sleeping mat. All kinds of things around the home, with a vibrant mix of Western and traditional African objects.
Nic's cookbook : tasty recipes for kids who love to cook!, Nicholas Brockelbank ; with photos by Nigel Beach.
A cook book for children written by the ten-year-old winner of the TVNZ Good Morning Kids' Cook Off. Includes recipes for starters, light meals, main courses and desserts. Suggested level: junior, primary.
A history of graphic design for rainy days, 1776-1994, [by Studio 3].
A History of graphic design for rainy days takes its readers on a charmingly illustrated and cleverly revealing whirlwind tour through this creative discipline's milestone developments, personalities, and technologies. With its engaging design, humourous narratives and fun-filled exercises, this activity book offers an entertaining look at the many aspects of graphic design from typography's humble beginnings at the dawn of the industrial revolution to the internet-based font distribution of today; from the first printed Christmas cards in the 1850s to David Carson's revolutionary layouts of the 1990s; from styles including art nouveau, Dada, Bauhaus, and psychedelic to innovators such as William Morris, Jan Tschichold, Saul Bass, and Jessica Helfand.
Anei ke!, written by Sharon Holt ; illustrated by Deborah Hinde.
A song about appropriate clothing for different types of weather. Includes guitar chords and extension ideas. Suggested level: junior.
Play, Ifeoma Onyefulu.
Hopscotch, cat's cradle, the mud game, football, Waly. Many different ways to play, with games that are familiar all over the world as well as some traditional African games. Photographed in Mali by an award-winning photographer, this is a unique and culturally diverse word book, with lots to look at and talk about.
Fairgrounds, Jane Bingham.
Welcome to the world of fairgrounds! Learn about the history of fairgrounds around the world, their art and music, and the people who run them. Find out about the science behind fairground rides, read an interview with a girl who grew up in a showman community, make your own fairground ride and discover amazing fairground facts and statistics.
The looky book, Donovan Bixley.
Hours of fun for the kids - and the adults! The Looky Book is a puzzle book mostly for young children with 11 different puzzles all with colourful New Zealand landscapes, birds and animals. Find the numbers with the crazy All Black lambs, spot the difference: the mischievous keas have changed around somebody's campervan, find the animals hidden deep in the bush, match the farmers to their animals. Plus spot what's wrong in the weird and wonderful scenes: Should a kiwi be flying? Could a sheep round up the dogs? And why is there a penguin at the top of that tree? Suggested level: junior, primary.
Brain ticklers, Kris Vaicikonis.
Presents searches, riddles, secret codes, matching games, and shape problems.
Brain twisters, Kris Vaicikonis.
Jumpstart thinking with these ultimate brain teasers.
Where's the meerkat? On holiday, written by Jen Wainwright ; illustrated by Paul Moran, Simon Ecob and Wan ; designed by Angie Allison and Zoe Bradley.
Meerkat mania shows no sign of slowing! This title is the follow up to the Where's The Meerkat?, combining meerkat cuteness with summer scenes and tricky searches. It continues search, with ten meerkats to find on each page and a whole host of people to spot along the way.
Guide to Pokemon legends.
From Arceus to Zekrom, you'll discover dozens of the most renowned Pokemon of all time in the Guide to Pokemon Legends! Their mighty powers and their mysterious backgrounds are all here and as an added bonus, you'll find a spectacular pop-up poster of the Legendary Pokemon Kyurem that makes the power of legends leap off the page!
WWE encyclopedia : the definitive guide to WWE, [written by Brian Shields & Kevin Sullivan].
An all-encompassing resource for everything WWE: the latest scoop on your favourite superstars and divas, from the legendary figures who blazed wrestling's trails, to the heroes to today.
Noisy poems for a busy day, written by Robert Heidbreder ; illustrated by Lori Joy Smith.
Captures adventures big and small in a child's day from sunup to sundown.
A laureate's choice : 101 poems for children chosen by Carol Ann Duffy, compiled by Carol Ann Duffy ; illustrated by Emily Gravett.
Carol Ann Duffy, the Poet Laureate, has chosen her favourite poems for children for this stunning collection of classic and modern verse, exquisitely illustrated by multi-award-winning illustrator Emily Gravett.
Face book, Chuck Close.
Presents an autobiography about the author's artistic life, describing the creative processes he uses in the studio and his struggles with his disabilities. Includes a self-portrait mix-and-match section that demonstrates his techniques and images.
Imogen : the mother of modernism and three boys, Amy Novesky ; illustrated by Lisa Congdon.
Imogen's family didn't have much, and life was hard atop the wild hill they called home. But when Imogen declared she wanted to be a photographer, her father built a darkroom just for her. Flash forward. Imogen is a photographer and a mother. She has her hands full! How does she do it all? She turns the garden into a wonderland for her three growing boys and a workshop for herself. While she works, her boys play, and Imogen photographs them. Photographing her sons leads Imogen to focus on the plants and flowers most notably her signature magnolia blossoms for which she will become known.
Monsieur Marceau, Leda Schubert ; illustrated by Gerard DuBois.
A visual profile of the iconic mime combines lyrical text with artwork to offer insight into the man behind his famous "Bip the Clown" character and the artistry that enabled him to communicate wordlessly and vibrantly.
If persistence was a person : the story of Professor Swee Tan, [by Hana Olds].
Professor Swee Tan was born in a poor Malaysian village, but dreamed of training as a doctor. Tan's persistence led him to medical training in Australia, then to New Zealand where he is now a leading surgeon and medical researcher.

Older Fiction

Jinx, Sage Blackwood.
A young boy named Jinx encounters magic and danger as he grows up in the deep, dark forest known as the Urwald and discovers that the world beyond and within the Urwald is more complex than he could imagine.
Treasure on Superstition Mountain, Elise Broach ; illustrated by Antonio Javier Caparo.
Returning to Superstition Mountain, the Barker brothers, along with their friend Delilah, soon find themselves entangled in more danger and mystery as they uncover a treasure.
13 hangmen, Art Corriveau.
Some people won't believe any of this story. You might be one of them. But every single word is true. Tony DiMarco does catch a murderer, solve a mystery, and find a treasure all in the first few days after he moves, unexpectedly, to 13 Hangmen's Court in Boston. The fact that he also turns thirteen at the same time is not a coincidence. So begins the story of Tony and his friends, five 13-year-old boys, all of whom are living in the same house in the same attic bedroom but at different times in history! None are ghosts, all are flesh and blood, and somehow all have come together in the attic room, visible only to one another. And all are somehow linked to a murder, a mystery, and a treasure.
North of nowhere, Liz Kessler.
The sleepy seaside village of Porthaven hides a mystery. Mia's grandad has vanished and nobody knows why. When Mia and her mum go to support her grandma, Mia makes friends with local girl, Dee. But why does Dee seem so out of reach? Why does she claim to be facing violent storms when Mia sees only sunny skies? And can Mia solve the mystery and find her grandad before time and tide forever wash away his future?
The positively last performance, Geraldine McCaughrean.
The performances at The Royal Theatre are extraordinary. You'd have to see them to believe them! But that's the problem. Nobody can see them. Except Gracie, that is. Gracie's new to this seaside town, but she's making friends quickly. There's Mikey the Mod who wears a parka and drives a scooter, Miss Melluish whose skirt is missing, and Frank Stuart, the builder of elephants. But the old theatre is under threat. Will Gracie and the residents be able to save their home, or is the curtain set to fall on their very last performance?
The trap door, Lisa McMann.
Dak, Sera, and Riq return to the United States and walk right into a deadly trap. The year is 1850 and the nation is divided over the issue of slavery. In these dark days, the Underground Railroad provides a light of hope, helping runaway slaves escape to freedom. But the SQ has taken control of the Underground Railroad from within. Now Dak and Sera are left wondering who to trust while Riq risks everything to save the life of a young boy.
Awesome blossom : a flower power book, Lauren Myracle.
Fifth-grade best friends Katie-Rose, Milla, Yasaman, and Violet are determined to save a new student from Modessa's evil influence, but Katie-Rose is busy not flirting with Preston and all four are distracted by trying to organise Yasamin's sister's birthday party.
Three times lucky, Sheila Turnage.
Washed ashore as a baby in tiny Tupelo Landing, North Carolina, Mo LoBeau, now eleven, and her best friend Dale turn detective when the amnesiac Colonel, owner of a cafe and co-parent of Mo with his cook, Miss Lana, seems implicated in a murder.
City of death, Laurence Yep.
Scirye and her loyal companions chase the villainous Mr Roland for a final showdown at Riye Srukalleyis, the City of Death, located in the heart of the Kushan Empire, along the Silk Road. There, they reunite with old friends, meet new allies, and confront an even more dangerous foe.

Picture Books

Animals : lift-the-tab.
With colourful pictures and easy-to-turn tabbed pages, this book is perfect for finding out about first animals.
Colours.
With questions to ask and things to find, children will love learning their colours as they slide the doors and seek the answers.
Numbers.
With questions to ask and things to find, children will love learning their numbers as they slide the doors and seek the answers.
The family bedtime treasury : tales for sleepy times and sweet dreams.
Words : lift-the-tab.
With bright pictures and easy-to-turn tabbed pages, this is the perfect first word book for your bright baby.
Hooray for bread, Allan Ahlberg, Bruce Ingman.
Three cheers for bread, HIP-HIP-HOORAY! Early in the morning the baker bakes a lovely loaf of bread. So lovely, in fact, that by the time the sun goes down it's been gobbled up! Every. Last. Slice. Who eats it all? This picture book celebrates bread, whether it's a yummy cheese and ham sandwich or some buttery toast.
Usborne baby's very first touchy-feely play book, illustrated by Stella Baggott.
Babies will love looking at the bright pictures and running their fingers over the touchy-feely patches in this delightful book.
Building our house, Jonathan Bean.
A young girl narrates her family's move from the city to the country, where they have bought a piece of land and live in a trailer while they build a house from the ground up, with help from relatives and friends.
Penguins can't fly, Richard Byrne.
Gregory the gull and Hudson the penguin are the best of friends. When Gregory learns to fly, Hudson feels left out. But when Gregory gets into trouble it is Hudson who comes to his rescue and he discovers he also has a wonderful skill.
Touch and feel playbook, Eric Carle.
The world of Eric Carle is a world of colour and discovery. In this tactile early-learning playbook, first concepts are introduced through texture, words and pictures.
Little dog lost : the true story of a brave dog named Baltic, Monica Carnesi.
A dog is rescued after days afloat on a sheet of ice in the Baltic Sea (based on a true story)
Here comes trouble!, written by Corinne Demas & pictures by Noah Z. Jones.
Emma's dog, Toby, does not like cats, and when the neighbour's cat, Pandora, moves in with them he is the only one who notices all the trouble she causes and the only one who notices when she gets stuck in a tree.
One little baby, Richard Dungworth ; illustrated by Jane Massey.
One little baby in a cosy baby bed, one little baby with a busy day ahead. Here is a book for every baby about every baby's day. From breakfast to playtime and story-time too, this is an enchanting interactive baby book full of hugs, kisses, tickles, and lots of talk about all the daily activities that babies love. With a lilting, lyrical rhyme, this is a perfect book for sharing at bedtime.
Naked Trevor, Rebecca Elliott.
Meet Trevor! He's no ordinary bird. In fact, if you peel back the novelty leaves, you'll discover he's completely naked! It's a well-kept secret that all birds are actually naked, but every morning they put on their feathery clothes and go about their day. Trevor doesn't want to conform with feathered society and refuses to wear his sparrow outfit, much to the horror of his family. In a quest to find his own unique look, Trevor crashes into a pile of sticky mud and colourful flowers. He ends up looking the best he ever has, inspiring the creatures around him to shed their own boring outfits!
The cat and the bird, inspired by a painting by Paul Klee ; text by Geraldine Elschner ; illustrations by Peggy Nile ; [English translation, Cynthia Hall].
A whimsical tale inspired by a Paul Klee painting follows the experiences of a freedom-seeking cat who, with the help of a bird, escapes her comfortable house to enjoy a night of dancing on the moonlit city roofs.
Nga reme riki e toru, na Sher Foley ; na Paora Tibble i whakamaori ; na Deborah Hinde nga pikitia.
A Māori retelling of the The three little lambs. Kiwi kids will love this home-grown version of The Three Little Pigs, where the wolf is substituted for a giant weasel and the houses are made from ferns, paua shells and hangi stones!
No more biting for billy goat!, Bernette Ford and Sam Williams.
Bernette Ford and Sam Williams, the creators of "No More Diapers for Ducky!," "No More Bottles for Bunny!," and the other "No More" books, are back with another sweet entry in their popular series. It's Billy Goat's first day at school, and he feels lost and lonely. Even though he really wants to join in the fun and games, he just doesn't know how. Billy Goat gets so frustrated that he even bites Piggy, Lambkin, and Bunny! But with a little gentle guidance from sympathetic Ducky, he learns that teeth are for biting food not your friends.
No-bot : the robot with no bottom, Sue Hendra.
Bernard the Robot loses his bottom on the park swing, and sets off to find it. Every time he gets close, it disappears again! Bird was using it as a nest, but it was too heavy; Bear used it in his drum kit, but it was too tinny; the Squirrels built sandcastles with it and now it looks as if they're sailing away in it. Will Bernard ever get his bottom back?
Maori counting, Jahri Jah Jah.
Simple illustrations and text introduce the numbers from 1 to 10 in Maori. Suggested level: junior.
Nurse Clementine, Simon James.
For her birthday, Clementine Brown is given a nurse's outfit. All she needs now are some patients! When her dad stubs his toe and her mum has a headache, Clementine is on hand she even bandages the dog.
Poppy Cat's first words, Lara Jones.
Join Poppy Cat as she plays in the garden, has tea with her friends and splashes around in the bath! Every spread has all kinds of everyday objects hidden away behind fun flaps and secret peep-holes. Children will love discovering and naming all the beautifully illustrated things in Poppy Cat's house. With over fifty first words to learn, this bright and colourful board book is perfect for sharing with inquisitive toddlers.
William and the night-train, written by Mij Kelly ; illustrated by Alison Jay.
All aboard! Tonight everyone's riding the night train mothers and fathers, teachers and jugglers they're all sleepyheads, ready for bed, ready to ride the train to Tomorrow. Everyone, that is, except wide-awake William, who is too excited to sleep. William can't resist exploring the train from end to end, discovering its secrets, until his mother convinces him that the train won't go and tomorrow won't come until he settles down and shuts his eyes.
Black and white!, [text by Bianca Lucas ; graphics by Emma Dodd & Bianca Lucas].
Amaze baby with these bold and beautiful patterns.
This little footballer, [written by Lucy Lyes ; illustrated by Emily Bolam].
From a leathery ball and rough goalkeeper gloves to a silky shirt and shiny trophy, each football-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 book is suitable for young fans of the beautiful game.
This little princess, written by Lucy Lyes; illustrated by Emily Bolam.
"This Little Princess" is a delightful rhyming touch-and-feel book from Ladybird, with a different pretty princess to talk about and a big touchy feely item to explore on every double page. From a glittering glass slippers and a silky ball gown to a shimmering castle and squishy green frog to kiss, each princess-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 book also has a special shiny silver foiled cover that makes it an ideal gift for children. Learn each little princess' name and what they are doing by reading the rhymes, then choose a name for the last little princess at the end! With a ladybird to also look for and spot on each page, "This Little Princess" is perfect for sharing with young children as their attention span and curiosity about books grows.
Miss Lina's ballerinas and the wicked wish, Grace Maccarone ; illustrated by Christine Davenier.
Having learned to dance as a group and with a boy, the ballerinas at Miss Lina's school face their biggest challenge yet in a production of Sleeping Beauty, which is complicated by Regina's disappointment about her role.
Fluffy chick, [illustrated by Maria Maddocks].
Offers an introduction to familiar and popular animals on the farm. This book stimulates curious toddlers who are keen to explore and learn about the world around them. It includes soft educational elements such as the introduction of vocabulary, labels and questions, as well as plenty of things to touch and feel, including tactiles and die-cuts.
Spotty puppy, [illustrated by Maria Maddocks].
Offers an introduction to a familiar animal. This book stimulates curious toddlers who are keen to explore and learn about the world around them. It includes soft educational elements such as the introduction of vocabulary, labels and questions, as well as plenty of things to touch and feel, including tactiles and die-cuts.
Good night!, Benoit Marchon, Soledad Bravi.
A child is sent to bed with numerous terms of endearment, likening the child to a jewel, a little fox, a pearl, a little flower, and a lamb.
Spoonful!, Benoit Marchon, Soledad Bravi.
A child is encouraged to eat all of his meal by offering spoonfuls to others, including his parents, the cat, a dinosaur, a witch, and a superhero.
Charlotte Middleton presents Christopher's bicycle : a tale of cycling and recycling!.
Christopher Nibble loves his recycled bicycle! Mr Nibble has repaired and repainted it all so beautifully and Mrs Nibble has turned one of her old dresses into some very useful saddlebags. It really looks a treat. Now Christopher is the greenest guinea pig in Dandeville. He's ready to rescue the town's rubbish, turning old into new, in this story full of pedal power! Inspired by his own recycled bicycle, Christopher asks Miss Borrower in the library, Mr Rosetti at the cafe, and Madame Choux from the bakery if he can take what they are throwing away. Then, with the help of his sister Poppy and their friend Posie, Christopher sets about making things out of old newspapers, empty coffee jars, and stale bread. Christopher gets on his bike to deliver the results around the town and so in turn inspires the other guinea pigs in Dandeville to start recycling. The story ends with the great Dandeville Recycling Race where contestants turn up with all sorts of wheeled contraptions made out of old prams, wheelbarrows, and even skateboards. Will Christopher show that two wheels are best and win the day?
Lucky ducklings, Eva Moore ; pictures by Nancy Carpenter.
While following their mother through town, five little ducklings, Pippin, Bippin, Tippin, Dippin and Little Joe, all fall into a storm drain.
Oh dear, Geoffrey!, Gemma O'Neill.
This beautifully written book is a tale about a rather tall and clumsey giraffe called Geoffrey. He annoys all the other animals with his long legs and neck, until one day he finds he can show his friends something they have never seen before; the stars.
Dressing, Helen Oxenbury.
Babies wear all sorts of clothes nappies, T-shirts, socks, trousers and hats. This title features illustrations that capture the fun of getting dressed and babies, delight in everything they put on.
Friends, Helen Oxenbury.
Babies make all kinds of friends rabbits, dogs, guinea pigs, birds, cats, hens and ducks. This title features illustrations that not only capture the creatures the baby meets, but every bit of the baby's delight in them.
Our dog, Helen Oxenbury.
A child and his mother take their dog out for her daily walk. She leaps into a smelly pond, rolls in the mud and then, when she gets home, jumps on the bed while she's soaking wet. It is a warm and funny depiction of the mischief caused by a family's dog and a little boy's delight in walking, chasing and washing her.
Playing, Helen Oxenbury.
Babies play with all sorts of things blocks, boxes, balls and teddy bears. This title features illustrations that perfectly capture not only the toys but the baby's delight in every one of them.
The dancing class, Helen Oxenbury.
A little girl is taken to her first dance class. Her mum buys her some ballet shoes and a pair of baggy tights, and ties her hair into a bun. The girl bounces about with all the other girls and boys and just as things get exciting, her laces come undone and everyone falls down.
Working, Helen Oxenbury.
Babies have lots of work to do eating, using the potty, having a bath and sleeping. This title features illustrations that capture the happenings of a baby's day with true insight into what matters most.
Doll's house, written by Sarah Powell ; illustrated by Dan Green.
Join Lily and Pippa on a tour around their doll's house, with flaps to lift and tabbed pages that are easy to turn!
The lemur's tale, Ophelia Redpath.
This story is set in a time when exotic animals were smuggled from their habitats; a time when parents had little time for their children; a time that could be now. A ring-tailed lemur is stowed away on a boat from Madagascar, and finds his way into the home of an eccentric but dysfunctional family. His night-time antics cause confusion, as he nibbles on the family's plants and raids their larder. But he brings great joy once they discover him curled up in a teapot, filling a little girl's life with hope and happiness. A beautiful tale indeed.
Zooms, Jeanette Rowe.
Introduce your clever child to the world of moving vehicles with this engaging flip-the-flap book.
Bob Staake's look! Another book!.
Easy-to-read, rhyming text invites the reader to search for items on a different theme on each page, while celebrating the wonder of a picture book.
Jumblebum, written by Chae Strathie ; illustrated by Ben Cort.
A funny story all about the importance of tidying up. Johnny thinks that his room has its own special style. But his mum thinks his room is a mess! Johnny doesn't care until all the chas attracts the terrible Jumblebum Beast. Will Johnny end up in the Jumblebum's tum or can his secret plan save the day?
The lamb and the butterfly, story by Arnold Sundgaard ; pictures by Eric Carle.
A protected lamb and an independent butterfly discuss their different ways of living.
I am blop!, [Herve Tullet].
Myriad variations on a simple shape that is easy for a child to recognise. An invitation to discover and explore everyday life and simple ideas.
The game in the dark, Herve Tullet.
The 14 pages of the book are printed with glow-in-the-dark ink. The child needs to charge them under a light source, turn down the light. In the dark, a rocket is taken on a journey to the moon.
Time-out for Sophie, Rosemary Wells.
Although Sophie wants to be helpful and good, sometimes she ignores her mother, father, and grandmother and must have a time out.
Scruffy Bear and the lost ball, Christopher Wormell.
Scruffy Bear sees a red ball, and does what comes naturally kicks it! But the ball is lost, high up in a tree, and the owners aren't very pleased. Never fear, plucky Scruffy Bear can climb trees. Even very, very high trees with all kinds of cross creatures in them?

Younger Fiction

Ralph tells a story, Abby Hanlon.
Although his teacher insists there are stories everywhere, Ralph cannot think of any to write.
Nicholas St. North and the battle of the Nightmare King, William Joyce & Laura Geringer with illuminations by William Joyce.
Nicholas St. North, a daredevil swordsman seeking treasure in the fiercely guarded village of Santoff Claussen finds, instead, the great wizard Ombric Shalazar and a battle against the Nightmare King and his evil Fearlings a battle Nicholas can win only if he finds five other Guardians in time.
The Sandman : the story of Sanderson Mansnoozie, William Joyce.
Provides the background, history, and life of Sanderson Mansnoozie, better known as the Sandman, who helps the Man in the Moon keep children safe at night by bringing them sweet dreams.
Toothiana, queen of the Tooth Fairy armies, William Joyce.
When orphaned Katherine learns that the teeth collected by the scorned Tooth Fairy contain memories of childhood, she enlists the help of the Guardians to get her tooth back and remember her parents.
Return to the willows, Jacqueline Kelly ; illustrations by Clint Young.
In this sequel to Kenneth Grahame's classic "The Wind in the Willows," the escapades continue for four animal friends who live along a river in the English countryside Toad, Mole, Rat, and Badger.
Captain Underpants and the revolting revenge of the radioactive robo-boxers : the tenth epic novel, Dav Pilkey.
George and Harold are forced to contemplate a world without Captain Underpants.
Aladdin and the enchanted lamp, retold by Philip Pullman ; illustrated by Sophy Williams.
Philip Pullman's wry wit and award-winning talent brings much to this rich, dark and uplifting story. With magic and mischief in equal measure, it is sure to captivate readers everywhere.
The treasure box, Margaret Wild & Freya Blackwood.
As the library burns, Peter and his father flee their home, taking with them a book more precious than jewels a book that tells the story of their people. When Peter loses his father and has to walk over the mountains, he must bury their treasure in an iron box to protect it, leaving it behind.
Short John Silver, Dave Woods, Chris Inns.
What shall we do with the shrunken sailor? Short John Silver has a map to buried treasure but no ship to sail in. So with the help of Captain Poopdeck and his motley pirate crew, he sets out to seek his fortune. But first the scurvy sailors have to brave the deadly seven seas before they can get their hooked hands on the secret hoard! A high-seas adventure with a low-stature pirate!
Sir Lance-a-Little, Dave Woods, Chris Inns.
A tin-pot knight on an epic adventure! Young Sir Lance-a-Little has a dangerous quest to fulfill. He must face evil wizards, save damsels in distress, outwit hungry ogres, win a jousting contest, and battle a terrible creature whose name rhymes with flagon. Will he fail, or will he prevail?