Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:17 Page 1 Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:17 Page 2

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION SERVICES Ireland’s Leading School and Library Wholesaler

Supplier of all titles recommended in this guide Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:17 Page 3

All throughout October, for the 20th year running, the island of Ireland will turn into a gigantic treasure map thanks to the annual national Children’s Book Festival. Up and down the country, schools, libraries, bookshops and arts centres will offer young readers a chance to meet their favourite authors and illustrators, through a wealth of events from readings, talks and workshops to storytelling sessions and competitions. To kick off the celebrations Children’s Books Ireland is publishing this new edition of BookFest, a free recommended reading guide, produced with the support of publishers and booksellers in Ireland and the UK. BookFest is designed to help you navigate your way through a year’s worth of children’s books, as it maps out the best titles of 2010 (some released in late 2009). Romance, historical novels, picturebooks, poetry, science, humour, adventure, horror… BookFest will take you into all the lands of fiction and non-fiction. The age categories used in this guide are by no means fixed borders and you should feel free to draw your own lines. BookFest is all about great books and, like a good book, we hope you will see it as a special place: a place to discover, to explore, to meet old friends and make new ones. A place to feel inspired, excited or moved. A place to come back to, again and again. Many thanks to the passionate section editors and their teams of reviewers; author and illustrator Kevin Waldron for our brilliant festival image, Kieran Nolan our designer in Oldtown; Antoinette Walker our proofreader extraordinaire; Mary Keogh in Character Print Solutions and of course Jenny Murray, CBI’s administrator 17 North Great George’s Street and miracle-worker. Dublin 1 Tel: (01) 872 7475 For more information about the festival, check out www.childrensbooksireland.ie www.childrensbooksireland.ie or pop into your local library and ask what they have in store for October. Go forth and explore! Find us on Facebook (search ‘Childrens Books Ireland’) Juliette Saumande and follow us on Twitter Editor (search ‘kidsbooksirel’)

Dublin was awarded Unesco City of Literature Status in July 2010. For more details, please go to www.dublincityofliterature.ie

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Acknowledgements

CBI is very grateful to our funding partners:

The Irish Copyright Licensing Agency Ltd

A special thanks to all the participating publishers who each year provide us with their forthcoming titles.

Laureate na nÓg is an exciting new project recognising the role and importance of literature for children. The honour has been established to engage young people with high-quality children’s literature and to underline the importance of children’s literature in our cultural and imaginative life. This unique honour was awarded for the first time on 10 May 2010 to author Siobhán Parkinson. The position of Laureate na nÓg will be held for a period of two years. Speaking about her appointment Siobhán Parkinson said: ‘I am thrilled and honoured to be chosen as the first Laureate na nÓg. I believe that children’s literature lays the foundations of the imaginative life of a people, and that every child deserves to have access to a reading haven – a well-stocked and well-run library in their school and in their community.’ Siobhán is concentrating much of her time as laureate on children’s libraries. She has made moves towards improved library services for youngsters. Laureate na nÓg is an initiative of the Arts Council, with the support of Children’s Books Ireland, the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, and Poetry Ireland.

For further information, please go to www.childrenslaureate.ie

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Welcome and Contact Information ...... page 3 Acknowledgements ...... page 4 Laureate na nÓg ...... page 4 Reviewers ...... page 5 CBI/Bisto Book of the Year 2009/10 ...... page 6 Recommended Reads: Age 0–4 ...... pages 7–16 Age 5–8 ...... pages 17–25 Age 9–12 ...... pages 26–35 Age 12–14 ...... pages 36–43 Age 14+ ...... pages 44–50 Poetry ...... pages 51–52 Information Books ...... pages 53–59

Irish-Published Children’s Books ...... pages 60–61 Competitions ...... pages 62–63

Editor: Juliette Saumande Section Editors: Valerie Coghlan, Debbie Thomas, Helen Adams, Síne Quinn, Helen Carr, Siobhán Kirwan-Keane, David Maybury, Enda Wyley, Déirdre Kirwan Reviewers: Helen Adams, Mary Arrigan, Bob Burke, Emma Byrne, Maura Byrne, Emma Cafferky, Helen Carr, Seamus Cashman, Laura-Jane Cassidy, Maria Clair, Valerie Coghlan, Ruth Coleman, Ashe Conrad-Jones, Helen Corcoran, Margaret Cronin, Margrit Cruickshank, Catherine Ann Cullen, Donal Cumiskey, Hannah Deacon, Seán Devlin, Joe Dillon, Tom Donegan, Robert Doran, Catherine Duffy, Robert Dunbar, Bernie Dunne, June Edwards, Jacqueline Fallon, Kieran Fanning, Jennifer Farley, Eoin Fegan, Jean Flitcroft, Cliona Forde, Tom Forde, Anne Gannon, Adrienne Geoghegan, Lesley Grant, Lucy Hamilton Turley, Kim Harte, Kate Harvey, Patricia Hayes, Charis Hughes, Lucinda Jacob, Kevin Keane, Sorcha Keane, Denise Kelleher, Louise Kerins, Déirdre Kirwan, Elizabeth Ann Kirwan, Iseult Kirwan, Siobhán Kirwan-Keane, Sophia Klein, Patrick Lynch, Natasha Mac a’Bháird, Caitríona Magner, Philomena Manson, David Maybury, Emily McClave, Laura-Blaise McDowell, Erika McGann, Kunak McGann, Oisín McGann, Paula McGeever, Katy McGuinness, Pauline Mellon, Jane Mitchell, Tony Monahan, Renee Moran, Beth Morrissey, Lindsay Myers, Máire Ní Bhroin, Meabh Ní Chatháin, Áine Ní Chiardubháin, Alison Nolan, David O’Callaghan, Carol O’Connor, Annie O’Doherty, Paddy O’Doherty, Saorla O’Dowd, Ciara O’Hara, Jane O’Hanlon, Ciara O’Shaughnessy, Keith O’Sullivan, Eileen Phelan, Amanda Piesse, Jennifer Porter, Conan Quinn, Síne Quinn, Juliette Saumande, Steve Simpson, Andrea Spykman, Debbie Thomas, Carol Walsh, Déirdre Walsh, Mags Walsh, Aoife Webb, Sarah Webb, Annie West, Enda Wyley. Cover Illustration: Illustration by Kevin Waldron, www.kevinwaldron.co.uk Design & Layout: Oldtown Graphic Design & Typesetting, www.oldtown.ie Proofreading: Antoinette Walker Print: Printed in Ireland by Character Print Solutions, www.character.ie denotes an Irish author/illustrator/publisher CBI has made every effort to ensure the information provided in this guide is correct. However, CBI cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

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CBI BISTO BOOK OF Marie-Louise Fitzpatrick THE YEAR 2009/10 THERE & Bisto Honour Award Roaring Brook Press for Illustration ISBN 9781596430877 (HBK)

HONOUR AWARD FOR FICTION EILÍS DILLON AWARD CHILDREN’S CHOICE AWARD

Siobhan Dowd Bob Burke Jane Mitchell SOLACE OF THE ROAD THE THIRD PIG CHALKLINE David Fickling/Random House DETECTIVE AGENCY Walker Books ISBN 9781849920056 (PBK) The Friday Project/HarperCollins ISBN 9781406315172 (PBK) ISBN 9781906321758 (HBK)

Caitríona Hastings (údar) Rosemary Wells Andrew Whitson (maisitheoir) Illustrated by PJ Lynch AN GRÉASAÍ BRÓG LINCOLN AND HIS BOYS AGUS NA SIÓGA Candlewick Press/Walker Books An tSnáthaid Mhór ISBN 9780763637231 (HBK) ISBN 9780955227127 (HBK)

Kieran Mark Crowley FE Higgins COLM & THE LAZARUS KEY THE EYEBALL COLLECTOR Mercier Press Macmillan ISBN 9781056356466 (PBK) ISBN 9780330453615 (PBK)

Alan Titley John Connolly GLUAISEACHT THE GATES An Gúm Hodder & Stoughton ISBN 9781857917550 (PBK) ISBN 9781444706741 (PBK)

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RECOMMENDED READS Age 0–4

1 Age 0–2 ⁄2 CLARE BEATON ACTION RHYMES BAREFOOT BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 16PP £4.99 ISBN 9781846864735 Beaton’s handsewn fabric illustrations add charm and child-appeal to a collection of well-known rhymes. This beautifully made board book is perfect for adults and babies to enjoy together. A must for the nursery. [VC] READ ALSO: Clare Beaton’s Nursery Rhymes

ROD CAMPBELL GOODNIGHT BUSTER! MACMILLAN 2010 (HBK) 12PP £7.99 ISBN 9780230746916 Goodnight Buster! is a comforting picturebook based around a toddler’s bedtime routine. The words are simple, the textured pets and toys are soothing for tiny hands and the pull-down tab at the end for closing Buster’s eyes works a treat! [LM]

XAVIER DENEUX MY CIRCUS BLOOMSBURY 2010 (HBK) 24PP £6.99 ISBN 9781408807002 Simple, striking images, peep-hole surprises, and high contrast colours bring to life all the wonder and magic of the circus, including funny clowns, performing birds, acrobats, and tightrope walkers. Babies and young children will really enjoy this tactile and delightful little book. [LHT] READ ALSO: My Animals

CAMILLA REID LULU’S LOO BLOOMSBURY 2010 (HBK) 16PP £6.99 ISBN 9781408802656 Anyone with a potty-training toddler should get their hands on this interactive book with bright, witty illustrations. It chronicles the trials of Lulu as she moves from nappies to ‘big girl pants’ in a charming, straightforward and funny way. Recommended. [SW] READ ALSO: Lulu’s Shoes; Lulu’s Clothes

SUSAN STEGGALL BUSY BOATS FRANCES LINCOLN 2010 (HBK) 24PP £11.99 ISBN 9781847800749 The busy life of a harbour is shown in gorgeous colours and appealing artwork, accompanied by minimal rhyming text. So much to look at and talk about here in each of the double-page spreads. A real treat. [VC]

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1 Age 2 ⁄2–4

JOHN BURNINGHAM ILLUSTRATED BY HELEN OXENBURY THERE’S GOING TO BE A BABY WALKER BOOKS OCT 2010 (HBK) 48PP £12.99 ISBN 9780744549966 An enchanting introduction to the arrival of a baby. Working through his own worries and concerns, a little boy asks his mum about his new sibling: When will it come? What will we call the baby? The illustrations are wonderful – joyfully coloured with splashes of crimson and hot pink; EDITOR’S CHOICE interspersed with double-page cartoon spreads reminiscent of the 1930s. Highly recommended. [SW] READ ALSO: Tickle, Tickle; Oi! Get Off Our Train

JULIA DONALDSON ILLUSTRATED BY EMILY GRAVETT CAVE BABY MACMILLAN 2010 (HBK) 32PP £10.99 ISBN 9780230743083 Cave Baby is lonely until he discovers the joy of cave painting. But Mum, a fine painter herself, and Dad don’t appreciate his more colourful efforts. Then, some nocturnal adventures with woolly mammoths, who do EDITOR’S appreciate talent, reassure him. Words and pictures are splendidly CHOICE matched, investing Baby with humour and individuality. A delight for all budding artists – and everyone else too! [VC]

GILES ANDREAE ILLUSTRATED BY EMMA DODD I LOVE MY MUMMY ORCHARD BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 32PP £10.99 ISBN 9781408309568 I Love My Mummy is sure to melt the heart of any mummy and some children too! Soft and tender, the book covers the key moments shared between mothers and toddlers everywhere: getting up, having breakfast, bath time, singing in the car, holding hands on walks, getting ready for bed. The text has the rhyme and metre of a poem and the illustrations are bold, bouncy and colourful. [LM]

KELLY BENNETT ILLUSTRATED BY PAUL MEISEL MY DADS WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 32PP £11.99 ISBN 9781406327731 Today ‘family’ is a word that can encompass a lot. How brilliant then to see this reflected here. Kelly Bennett joyously explains what it’s like to be lucky enough to have two dads. The text is witty with the wordplay and contrasts emphasised and enhanced by the clever illustrations which yield new details with each read. A fresh look at what family really means – I thoroughly enjoyed it. [EC] READ ALSO: Not Norman: A Goldfish Story

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1 Age 2 ⁄2–4

QUENTIN BLAKE ANGELICA SPROCKET’S POCKETS JONATHAN CAPE 2010 (HBK) 32PP £10.99 ISBN 9780224083768 ‘Angelica Sprocket lives next door. Her overcoat has pockets galore.’ So begins this jaunty book in rhyme. Angelica is tall, with mad ponytails, James Joyce glasses and a wondrous pink coat with dozens of pockets: pockets for mice, hankies, umbrellas and even elephants. The brightly coloured pen and ink illustrations in Blake’s characteristic style are superb – full of wit and good humour. [SW] READ ALSO: Michael Rosen’s Sad Book; Cockatoos SEE ALSO: www.quentinblake.com

SÉBASTIEN BRAUN MEEOW AND THE POTS AND PANS BOXER BOOKS SEPT 2010 (PBK) 24PP £6.99 ISBN 9781907152504 Meeow and friends are raiding the kitchen cupboard. Who could blame them? Pots, pans, colanders, plastic jugs, wooden spoons, a whole treasure trove awaits them. Very young readers will love the fresh, bright and fun illustrations, and will certainly recognise themselves in the cat’s artistic endeavours. This is a very well-thought-out picturebook where every single detail has a purpose. A treat! [JS] READ ALSO: Meeow and the Big Box SEE ALSO: www.sebastienbraun.com

LAUREN CHILD SLIGHTLY INVISIBLE: FEATURING CHARLIE AND LOLA ORCHARD BOOKS OCT 2010 (HBK) 48PP £10.99 ISBN 9781408307908 Charlie and Lola are back in a new adventure about friendship and sharing. Charlie wants to play with his friend Marv, alone. Lola has other ideas and involves herself in ‘looking for strange and tricky creatures’ games with a little help from her invisible friend, Soren Lorensen. Child’s glowing collages, complete with glitter spacesuits and stripy wool jumpers, more than make up for the slightly flat text. [SW] READ ALSO: Clarice Bean, That’s Me SEE ALSO: www.milkmonitor.com

GUS CLARKE LET’S GO DRIVING! WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 12PP £8.99 ISBN 9781406323504 From the parp parp of the horn on the cover to the bunny chasing the car through the trees at the end, anyone would be charmed by this book. Wonderful for the little person in your life who has discovered vroom vroom, or just loves stories. The moving parts are full of detail and there is lots to talk about. The tabs can be a bit finicky and might not survive enthusiastic handling, so best keep this for sharing. [JFal]

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1 Age 2 ⁄2–4

KATIE CLEMINSON WAKE UP! RED FOX 2010 (PBK) 32PP £5.99 ISBN 9781862306288 A highly imaginative book in which a boy shares his daytime activities with a hippo, a lemur, a lion, an elephant and a cat – their natural relationship fills the everyday plot with warmth and novelty. Cleminson’s text has a powerful, methodic rhythm and the rhymes and repetitions encourage young listeners to participate in the reading experience. The illustrations are bright and joyful and the text/illustration dynamic works a treat. [LM]

LUCY COUSINS I’M THE BEST WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 32PP £11.99 ISBN 9781406323689 Dog is out and about bragging to all his friends that he is the best. They agree with him until Mole decides he is better at digging deep holes. The others join in and finally decide that what matters is being the best at being best friends. Childlike use of colour and print creates a happy backdrop to a happy ending – particularly for the animal with the fluffy ears. [DW] READ ALSO: Hooray for Fish

JULIA DONALDSON ILLUSTRATED BY AXEL SCHEFFLER ZOG ALISON GREEN BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 32PP £10.99 ISBN 9781407115566 I’ve always wanted to go to dragon school – what joy then to be taken there in Zog. The blockbuster team behind The Gruffalo has done it again with this bright, bold tale that has plenty of surprises. It’s a joy to read aloud, and emergent readers will love the repetition and simplicity of the prose. Scheffler’s illustrations are bold and captivatingly funny. Fans will not be disappointed! [EC] SEE ALSO: www.juliadonaldson.co.uk

LIZZIE FINLAY LITTLE CROC’S PURSE RED FOX 2010 (PBK) 32PP £5.99 ISBN 9781862309067 Honesty pays off! It’s a strong message, nicely executed with bold, colourful illustrations, filled with mischievous crocodiles and lively dialogue. Little Croc has found a huge purse full of money and is determined to return it to its owner. His journey to the police station is filled with obstacles and temptations to spend it. It is a delightful story about honesty, generosity and friendship, supported by lots of good visual detail. [JFl] READ ALSO: Dandylion

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1 Age 2 ⁄2–4

NITA FITZGERALD ILLUSTRATED BY FRANCESCA CARABELLI IT’S GREAT BEING LITTLE THE O’BRIEN PRESS SEPT 2010 (PBK) 32PP €7.99 ISBN 9781847171764 Susie is fed up being little so her granny responds by listing all the things that only she can do: leaving toys on the floor, painting ‘outside the lines’ and being hoisted about as she plays with older members of her family. A bright, cheerful and affirming story from an Irish author with quirky illustrations in strong pastel colours make an attractive book that young families will enjoy. [LJ]

CHRIS HAUGHTON A BIT LOST WALKER BOOKS SEPT 2010 (HBK) 28PP £11.99 ISBN 9781406327465 A Bit Lost is the adventure story of an accidentally orphaned owl, who, after falling from his nest while sleeping, sets out with the help of new friends to find his way home to his mummy. The brilliantly simple – yet deceptively so – verbal text is complemented by a quirkily psychedelic – yet subtly dark – visual text that captures both the anxiety and ‘thrill’ of being lost. Intertextual echoes of ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ and The Magic Roundabout enchantingly haunt a beautifully realised – yet surreal – work of art. [KO’S]

PETR HORÁCˇ EK THE FLY WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 28PP £10.99 ISBN 9781406313925 This housefly pleads for mercy as it is repeatedly swatted in the exuberant illustrations, but how can we sympathise when it flies from a cow’s tail back to food in the kitchen? Towards the end, the pages themselves become the fly swat, so as you read you are swatting the fly and in the end you squash it by closing the cover! Intriguing – definitely worth a look, as a starting point for discussion. [LJ]

SHIRLEY HUGHES DON’T WANT TO GO! BODLEY HEAD 2010 (HBK) 32PP £10.99 ISBN 9780370329628 Today Lily is going to stay with Melanie because her Mum is ill. She doesn’t want to go, but after a day of chatting with Melanie and playing with Ringo the dog, Sam the baby and Jack his big brother, she has changed her mind. Now she doesn’t want to go home. A story full of cuddles and warmth – both mirrored in its illustrations. [DW]

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1 Age 2 ⁄2–4

ÉMILE JADOUL I REALLY, REALLY LOVE YOU ZERO TO TEN 2010 (HBK) 24PP £5.99 ISBN 9781840895858 Simply drawn and reminiscent of Dick Bruna, though more fluid, this is an off-beat and surprisingly complex story of trust and love. The book begins and ends happily, but in between the reader is not sure where the story is heading – quite an achievement in just 41 words. The design, all double-page spreads, with skilled interplay between words and pictures, is perfect for sharing. [AGa]

OLIVER JEFFERS UP AND DOWN HARPERCOLLINS SEPT 2010 (HBK) 32PP £10.99 ISBN 9780007263844 This ‘sequel’ to Lost and Found tells of the further adventures of the unnamed boy protagonist and his friend, the penguin. Here they work together to solve a problem: how to help the penguin fly. While the interrelationship between the verbal and visual texts enchantingly celebrates the power of the imagination to make dreams come true, this is, at its very heart, an uplifting and poignant allegory about the profundity of friendship. [KO’S]

CESELI JOSEPHUS JITTA LOLA AND THE RENT-A-CAT FRANCES LINCOLN 2010 (HBK) 36PP £11.99 ISBN 9781847801395 After 56 years of marriage in which they did everything together, John dies, leaving Lola alone. She misses him dreadfully; then she discovers www.rentacat.com and ‘homely, slightly older cat’ Tim comes into her life, bringing her companionship again. Thoughtful, sensitive and entertaining, this is a valuable introduction to old age, bereavement and the need for something to live for. [VC]

NICOLA KILLEN NOT ME! EGMONT 2010 (PBK) 32PP £5.99 ISBN 9781405248303 Paint on the wall, peas in the hall… the house is in total chaos. Who could the culprit(s) be? With a simple question-and-answer structure, this début picturebook ticks a lot of boxes: a clear text that allows for rhythm and rhyme, illustrations that are both bright and soft, a real interaction between word and image, and plenty of clues and surprises for the attentive sleuth. One to read and reread. [JS] SEE ALSO: www.nicolakillen.com

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1 Age 2 ⁄2–4

ANNA MCQUINN ILLUSTRATED BY HANNAH SHAW THE SLEEP SHEEP CHICKEN HOUSE 2010 (PBK) 32PP £5.99 ISBN 9781906427245 A nice twist on counting sheep, this is great fun, with delightful illustrations that mirror the burst of wakefulness that comes with bedtime. Sylvie finds the huge number of sheep she has conjured up just as ‘exasperating’ as her mother found her – they won’t stay still enough for her to count – until they fall asleep in the sun after a day at the beach. A perfect bedtime story. [LJ]

MICHAEL MORPURGO ILLUSTRATED BY PATRICK BENSON IT’S A DOG’S LIFE EGMONT 2010 (PBK) 32PP £5.99 ISBN 9781405213370 We learn that a farm dog’s work is never done as we spend a day in the life of Russ – it’s definitely not all about eating and sleeping. With charming full-spread illustrations on every page and a clever first person/dog narrative, this book is definitely what a dog would write had he the time! A must read for anyone wanting an informative insight into man’s best friend. [EC] SEE ALSO: www.michaelmorpurgo.com

ALISON MURRAY APPLE PIE ABC ORCHARD BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 32PP £10.99 ISBN 9781408308011 An appealing and mischievous little dog has his eye on one thing only and gets up to every trick in the book to get it. Beautifully illustrated in blocks of muted colours, this expressive and funny traditional verse provides a perfect introduction to the alphabet. [LHT] SEE ALSO: www.applepieabc.com

EIBHLÍS NÍ DHONNCHADHA MAISITHE AG DÓMHNAL Ó BRIC NÓINÍN AGUS RÓLLAÍ PÓLLAÍ AN GÚM 2009 (CRUA) 16LTH €9.50 ISBN 9781857917475 Scéilín deas do na páistí óga. Téann Nóinín amach ag lorg a cara Róllaí Póllaí. Buaileann sí lena cáirde difriúla sa ghairdín sula dtagann sí ar Róllaí. Léigheann Ríoghnach Nic Craith an scéal ar dhlúthdiosca a thagann leis an leabhar agus tá ceol air freisin. De bharr seo tá an leabhar an-oiriúnach do pháiste atá ar tí an léitheoireacht a thuiscint. Scéal deas simplí. [MCro]

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1 Age 2 ⁄2–4

COLMÁN Ó RAGHALLAIGH MAISITHE AG ANNE MARIE CARROLL CLIC! CLIC! LE RUAIRÍ CLÓ MHAIGH EO 2010 (BOG) 34LTH €8.00 ISBN 9781899922635 Ta an rógaire Ruairí thar n-ais le eachtra nua agus é chomh grámhar is a bhí sé cheana! Tógann sé ceamara a Mhamaí gan chead agus as go brách leis. Tógann sé a lán grianghrafanna agus tá a lán eachtraí suimiúla aige. Ach faoi dheireadh tá Mamaí á lorg! Le léaráidí deas simplí agus greann i rith an scéil. [MCro] LÉIGH FREISIN: Cá bhfuil Ruairí?

MICHAEL ROSEN ILLUSTRATED BY KEVIN WALDRON TINY LITTLE FLY WALKER BOOKS OCT 2010 (HBK) 32PP £11.99 ISBN 9781406314557 Rosen brings his mastery of text and Waldron contributes fresh, innovative and stunning illustration to this gentle picturebook. Full of elegant rhyme with simple language, it tells the story of a tiny fly that encounters an elephant, a tiger and a hippo. The illustrations fill the story with beautiful shapes and textures. Each of the large animals ambles into their spreads with grace and charm. A great addition to any school or home library. [MW]

ELLIE SANDALL BIRDSONG EGMONT 2010 (PBK) 32PP £5.99 ISBN 9781405247382 As life turns upside down for a noisy crew of colourful feathered creatures, with the arrival of a large magnificent bird, not even butterfly can save him from his fate. Join in with the chirpy cacophony of lyrical bird sounds, and enjoy the bright vivid watercolours, whimsical lines, and almost tactile textures that make this book really sing. [LHT]

NIAMH SHARKEY ON THE ROAD WITH MAVIS AND MARGE WALKER BOOKS SEPT 2010 (HBK) 32PP £11.99 ISBN 9781406321845 The big, bright images in this large format picturebook will attract the younger preschooler. Mavis and Marge are feeling adventurous and want to leave the farmyard to explore the big world outside. There is a clever use of font and text design to fit the story and the characters, and the comic-book style successfully draws the eye and will focus the understanding of the preverbal child. The images and story combine well to engage younger listeners. [AO’D]

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1 Age 2 ⁄2–4

MARK SPERRING ILLUSTRATED BY MIRIAM LATIMER THE SUNFLOWER SWORD ANDERSEN PRESS 2010 (HBK) 24PP £10.99 ISBN 9781849390576 A tale of dragons and knights – a little boy is offered a sunflower with which to attack the enemy. Unsure of its power, he heads up Dragon Hill to ‘whoosh’ and ‘swoosh’ at anything he meets. Plenty of games later, the other knights follow the boy’s example, dropping swords and taking up sunflowers. The world becomes a happier place. Action-packed illustrations feature a little boy making all sorts of choices. [DW]

HELEN STEPHENS THE NIGHT ICEBERG ALISON GREEN BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 32PP £6.99 ISBN 9781407107912 It’s hard to share everything with a baby brother and one night Tofta hops on a beautiful iceberg as it drifts past her bedroom window so she can be alone. Light and gentle, the story of Tofta learning to share the iceberg with 500 penguins is good fun. The quiet of the iceberg, the simple ‘pit-pat’ of the penguins’ feet, and the wonderful expressions on the penguins’ faces are full of charm and humour. [JFl] READ ALSO: Fleabag

VALERIE THOMAS ILLUSTRATED BY KORKY PAUL WINNIE IN SPACE OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS SEPT 2010 (PBK) 28PP £5.99 ISBN 9780192732187 The latest in the Winnie series recounts Winnie’s adventures in space. Winnie packs a picnic basket, her Big Book of Spells and with cat Wilbur takes off in a rocket. But space travel with Winnie was never going to go smoothly and soon Winnie needs to use her magic wand. The visual text is packed full of detail and fun. A rattlingly good read! [EP] READ ALSO: Winnie’s Amazing Pumpkin

FRIEDA VAN RAEVELS MAISITHE AG DIRK NIELANDT LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC DHONNAGÁIN MEIG AGUS CÓILÍN: AN LÁ BREITHE FUTA FATA 2009 (CRUA) 24LTH €9.95 ISBN 9781906907112 Scéilín deas d’am luí dosna páistí beaga é seo. Scéal faoi cat beag soineanta atá ag iarraidh bronntanas breithe dá chara. Tá an iomaí eachtra aige agus tá críoch sona don scéal. Le dathanna deasa agus pictiúir oiriúnacha don aois ghrúpa seo, beidh suim ag an bpáiste óg atá ag tosnú ar dhul go féasta breithe sa scéal seo. [MCro]

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1 Age 2 ⁄2–4

CHARLOTTE VOAKE GINGER AND THE MYSTERY VISITOR WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 32PP £11.99 ISBN 9781406322385 A most attractive book with pleasing illustrations and a visually agreeable font used for the text. Words and pictures work together very well within the spacious layout of the pages. The cats have plenty of room to stretch and curl! This is a story for little people who have a cat in their lives and can appreciate both the supreme cheek of the mystery visitor and the corresponding stiff-whiskered indignation of Ginger, the home cat. [JFal]

KARMA WILSON ILLUSTRATED BY JANE CHAPMAN WHAT’S IN THE EGG, LITTLE PIP? SIMON AND SCHUSTER OCT 2010 (PBK) 40PP £5.99 ISBN 9781847388223 Little Pip struggles to understand why Mummy and Daddy Penguin are so caught up with the arrival of the Egg. They reassure him that all will be well and that a baby will make their family ‘just right’. Chapman’s artwork captivates and delights and, if a penguin chick can smile, she manages to capture that moment exactly in this wonderful evocation of the worry and uncertainty about the imminent arrival of a new sibling. A reassuring, warm and gentle story. [EP] READ ALSO: Bear Snores On Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:18 Page 17

RECOMMENDED READS Age 5–8

ANDY STANTON ILLUSTRATED BY DAVID TAZZYMAN MR GUM AND THE CHERRY TREE EGMONT 2010 (PBK) 216PP £5.99 ISBN 9781405252188 The old muckster’s back. The seventh Mr Gum book sees the crafty filther ruling from a cherry tree. Will the townsfolk believe his claim to be Runtus, EDITOR’S faun of the forest? Or can brave Polly expose him with the help of Penelope CHOICE the aphid? Andy Stanton dazzles the pants off in this rule-breaking riot, complemented by David Tazzyman’s scruffily perfect illustrations. [DT] READ ALSO: Six other Mr Gum books SEE ALSO: www.mrgum.co.uk

KATE DICAMILLO & ALISON MCGHEE ILLUSTRATED BY TONY FUCILE BINK AND GOLLIE WALKER BOOKS SEPT 2010 (PBK) 96PP £8.99 ISBN 9781406329681 There are some new girls in town! Precocious and witty, Bink and Gollie scramble off on three separate adventures. Trekking through the Andes,

EDITOR’S negotiating the effect of pets on friendship and modelling stripy socks! The CHOICE relationship between these two is beautifully realised with warmth, and helped by energetic illustration. Make fast friends with Bink and Gollie, wear your coloured socks with pride. I have a feeling there are many more adventures to come. [CW]

DAVID ALMOND ILLUSTRATED BY POLLY DUNBAR THE BOY WHO CLIMBED INTO THE MOON WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 125PP £9.99 ISBN 9781406314571 Two of the most respected figures in contemporary children’s literature join forces to tell this beguiling tale of a small boy with a big imagination. The narrative is infused with whimsy, crackpot characters and outlandish escapades. Dunbar’s gorgeous vignettes and double-page spreads match Almond’s increasingly disarming flights of fancy, producing a truly special work of illustrated short fiction. [TD]

LAURENCE BOURGUIGNON MAISITHE AG MICHAE¨ L DERULLIEUX LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC DHONNAGÁIN MAC TÍRE NA DRAÍOCHTA FUTA FATA 2009 (CRUA) 22LTH €9.95 ISBN 9781906907136 Mac tíre cneasta, cairdiúil é Maidhceo le nóinín deas ar a bhríste! Tá saol maith aige lena cháirde Cearbhall agus Caoimhe Coinín go dtí go mbuaileann sé le grúpa mac tíre fiána atá ag lorg coinín do dhinnéar na Nollag! Ach tá plean ag na coiníní agus Maidhceo! Le pictiúir deasa atá lán le sonraí a choimeádfaidh suim an pháiste óg sa leabhar álainn seo. [SKe]

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Age 5–8

MENENA COTTIN ILLUSTRATED BY ROSANA FARÍA THE BLACK BOOK OF COLOURS WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 32PP £11.99 ISBN 9781406322187 This is a wonderful, tactile book about colour that answers the questions: what does colour feel like, taste like, sound like? The concept is highly innovative. It introduces children to what reading Braille feels like. The embossed black-on-black etchings are strikingly beautiful. A great book for a wide range of ages. [AGe]

KATIE DAVIES ILLUSTRATED BY HANNAH SHAW THE GREAT HAMSTER MASSACRE SIMON AND SCHUSTER 2010 (PBK) 192PP £5.99 ISBN 9781847385956 The bulk of this hilarious behind-the-scenes story is gearing up to Anna and her little brother trying every tactic in the book to get a hamster, and then turning detectives with what follows. The book has huge depth. Death is covered sympathetically and with humour that kids will relate to. [AGe] READ ALSO: The Great Rabbit Rescue SEE ALSO: www.katiedavies.com

CAROL ANN DUFFY ILLUSTRATED BY ROB RYAN THE GIFT BAREFOOT BOOKS OCT 2010 (HBK) 32PP £10.99 ISBN 9781846863547 Threading a daisy chain necklace in the woods, a girl meets an old woman. In return for the completed necklace, the woman promises to grant the girl’s wish to be buried in this spot when she dies. This depiction of the circle of life by the UK poet laureate brims with exquisite phrases – ‘moon-oiled rooftops’ and bees ‘praying for honey’ – which are complemented by the delicate silhouette illustrations. [DT]

PATRICIA FORDE ILLUSTRATED BY JOELLE DREIDEMY FROGS DO NOT LIKE DRAGONS EGMONT 2010 (PBK) 48PP £4.99 ISBN 9781405247795 When Lola locks herself in the bathroom with only a witch, a one-eyed cat, a dragon and a collection of frogs for company, it’s up to her older sister Natalie to save the day. One of the Blue Bananas series for developing readers, this whimsical tale will appeal to lovers of chaos (especially those with younger sisters). The jaunty, beautifully coloured illustrations match the text very well. [CH]

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Age 5–8

ESTHER GOBL UÍ NUALLÁIN MAISITHE AG EMILY COLENSO RUBALL TRIOBALL MÓINÍN 2010 (BOG) 45LTH €8.00 ISBN 9780956492609 Scéal faoi bhuachaill beag agus dual a chroí – a choileán féin. Is téama an- réadúil é agus beidh páiste óg in ann é a thuiscint go héasca. Tá mothuchaín láidre ann agus tá an buachaill agus a thuismitheoirí léirithe go deas ag an údar. Tugann léaráidí Colenso an scéal chun beochta. An-oiriúnach do pháiste le grá d’ainmhithe agus do thuistí a bhfuil ag iarraidh ainmhí a sheachaint! [MNíC]

ANGELA HASSALL ILLUSTRATED BY CAROLINE EWEN ELLA MOVES HOUSE: A STEP FAMILY STORY TAMARIND 2010 (PBK) 32PP £5.99 ISBN 9781848530065 Hassall’s charming story will appeal to those who have just started reading, and is also ideal for reading together. It is a useful tool to introduce young children to situations of potential upheaval, like a house move or the introduction of a new partner, as the story concerns both. The illustrations are fun and vivid. Highly recommended. [PMcG]

TED HUGHES ILLUSTRATED BY LAURA CARLIN THE IRON MAN WALKER BOOKS OCT 2010 (HBK) 96PP £14.99 ISBN 9781406324679 Ted Hughes’ myth-cum-morality tale has lost none of its disturbing power since its first publication in 1968. Carlin’s extraordinary illustrations, some in pull-out or interactive form, offer a poesis as engaging as Hughes’ words, arresting in their colour, quirky in their detail and diversity. Words and images provide an opportunity for profound reflection about community, responsibility, courage and love. A deeply engaging text for all ages. [AP] READ ALSO: Under The North Star

OLIVER JEFFERS THE HEART AND THE BOTTLE HARPERCOLLINS 2010 (HBK) 32PP £10.99 ISBN 9780007182305 Jeffers’ sixth and best book deals with grief. A little girl loses her father and consequently her wonder at the world. She protects her heart from further suffering by placing it in a bottle around her neck. Jeffers’ carefully crafted words complement his clear, considered pictures, allowing readers to put their own emotions on the page. This book is for everyone aged between 4 and 104. [SS] READ ALSO: Up and Down; The Way Back Home SEE ALSO: www.oliverjeffers.com

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Age 5–8

GENE KEMP NO WAY OUT FABER AND FABER 2010 (PBK) 108PP £5.99 ISBN 9780571244553 When Alex and Adam’s family car is engulfed by a mysterious mist, the telepathic twins are transported back in time to a ceremony in which little sister Emmy must play a most important part. The dreamlike time-slip narrative is shot through with moments of real suspense and realistic family tension. It’s a deeply engaging, slightly disturbing book whose after-effects are difficult to shake off. [AP] READ ALSO: The Turbulent Term of Tyke Tiler; The Clock Tower Ghost

DAREN KING ILLUSTRATED BY DAVID ROBERTS FRIGHTFULLY FRIENDLY GHOSTIES QUERCUS 2010 (PBK) 128PP £5.99 ISBN 9781847249937 When Pamela Fraidy gets into trouble, the polite but clumsy Frightfully Friendly Ghosties, despite their varied skills, have to ask the still-alives for help. But they are too frightened to listen, so the Ghosties try something else. The story is told with somewhat old-fashioned dialogue and plenty of humour. It is enhanced by David Roberts’ quirky illustrations. [MCru] READ ALSO: Mouse Noses on Toast

MICHAEL LAWRENCE A JIGGY MCCUE STORY: RUDIE DUDIE ORCHARD BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 160PP £5.99 ISBN 9781408304839 This book has it all: humour, fun, witchy teachers and Elizabethan profanity, as well as a likeable hero, involuntary mooning and some Shakespeare! The pacing and comic timing is spot on, the style easy to read and the plot thrilling. This will appeal to those who like slightly subversive material, where authority figures are – rightfully – challenged. [PMcG] READ ALSO: The Killer Underpants SEE ALSO: www.jiggymccue.com

TADHG MAC DHONNAGÁIN MAISITHE AG KIERON BLACK GRUAIG FHINN AN GÚM 2009 (BOG) 56LTH €7.00 ISBN 9781857917741 Scéal an-dheas faoi Fionn agus na Fianna. Tá Caoillte Mac Rónán ann freisin agus beirt chailíní atá tógtha le Fionn. Tá draíocht agus olcas agus daonnacht sa scéal seo. Sa deireadh, tá an bua ag an laoch Fionn agus tá ceacht foghlamtha ag an mbeirt mí-charranach. Tá na pictiúirí go deas geal bríomhar. Leagan suimiúil nua-aimseartha den seanscéal Fiannaíochta atá sa leabhar seo. [MNíC]

20 BOOKFEST 2010-2011 Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:18 Page 21

Age 5–8

ALAN MACDONALD ILLUSTRATED BY MARK BEECH OI, CAVEBOY! BLOOMSBURY 2010 (PBK) 192PP £4.99 ISBN 9781408803349 Scrawny Stone Age boy Iggy is nephew of the Urk Chief. When the chief falls ill, Iggy is blamed by a scheming elder. The blundering boy must travel to the lands of the terrifying Noneck tribe and find the stinky plant that cures everything. This hilarious tale whistles along like a stone from Iggy’s clutterpult. Beech’s pen and ink cartoons are perfect. [CAC] READ ALSO: Trolls Go Home; Custardly Wart Pirate (Third Class)

DAN MCGUINNESS PILOT & HUXLEY A&C BLACK 2010 (PBK) 64PP £7.99 ISBN 9781408127643 No one could accuse Pilot & Huxley of being a mediocre adventure. Because that would be a lie. Colourful, fast-paced and side-splitting, Pilot & Huxley is a tremendously fun read that will have little boys everywhere demonically giggling to themselves. There’s no room for boredom here as with almost each turn of the page Pilot and Huxley are thrown into some fresh mess that Huxley will most likely hate and Pilot will undoubtedly think is ‘awesome’ as will readers of this terrific comic. [PL]

OISÍN MCGANN ILLUSTRATED BY ALESSANDRO ‘TALEXI’ TAINI ARMOURON: THE ARMOURED GHOST ISBN 9780553821161 ARMOURON: LYING EYES ISBN 9780553821178 BANTAM BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 145PP £4.99 Chivalric adventures and heroic quests are the order of the day in these two Armouron books. The Armouron, a band of elite knights whose code is honour, compassion, duty and justice, are under threat. With planet Earth taken over by the evil Chairman and the Perfect Corporation, five young knights must fight to save humanity. Enjoy the action! [JE] READ ALSO: The Caged Griffin SEE ALSO: www.oisinmcgann.com

OISÍN MCGANN MAD GRANDAD’S DOPPELGANGER THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2010 (PBK) 64PP €5.99 ISBN 9781847171979 Grandad is back in his sixth ‘mental’ adventure – but wait, is that really Grandad? When Lenny and Grandad lose the car, things get a little out of hand. They hatch a plan to find the missing motor, but the trouble is Grandad isn’t acting himself – and is there something following Lenny? McGann’s pen and ink illustrations come into their own and the lively characters keep the Mad Grandad series enthralling. [JFar] READ ALSO: Mad Grandad’s Robot Garden; Mad Grandad’s Flying Saucer

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Age 5–8

SOPHIE MCKENZIE TIME TRAIN TO THE BLITZ USBORNE 2010 (PBK) 142PP £4.99 ISBN 9780746097533 Whisked back to the Second World War by a magical train, Joe and Scarlett arrive in the middle of Blitz-ravaged London. Their mission is to change history by saving the life of a boy whose house is bombed. Simply and vividly written, the story captures the fear, confusion and community spirit of 1940s London, weaving in facts about the war without a hint of dry historical teaching. [DT]

CHRISTINE MOORCROFT ILLUSTRATED BY FABIANO FIORIN PIE IN THE SKY EVANS 2010 (PBK) 32PP £4.99 ISBN 9780237542573 The combination of seductive colour, beautiful imagery and witty text will delight younger readers in this latest offering from the successful Twisters Rhymers series. Adults will appreciate the humour too, as Simon, the rather obstinate pie man, is convinced he spies a lime pie in the sky. His more sensible wife knows it’s the sun, but she is saying nothing! A fun read-aloud book. [JE] READ ALSO: Now Now Brown Cow

JO NESBØ ILLUSTRATED BY MIKE LOWERY TRANSLATED BY TARA CHACE DOCTOR PROCTOR’S FART POWDER SIMON AND SCHUSTER 2010 (PBK) 265PP £5.99 ISBN 9781847386533 Lisa is excited when a new family moves in, although Nilly is not what she expected. Nilly’s arrival also attracts crazy professor Doctor Proctor’s attention, and an unlikely friendship begins. With Nilly eager to try Doctor Proctor’s invention, fart powder, the duo embark on a trouser-ripping adventure. Though the translation is sometimes stilted, Nesbø has written an hilarious tale with extraordinary characters of timeless appeal. [SQ] READ ALSO: Doctor Proctor’s Time Bathtub SEE ALSO: www.jonesbo.co.uk

JOHN NEWMAN MIMI WALKER BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 192PP £4.99 ISBN 9781406322378 Some 149 days after her mother’s death, Mimi is struggling to come to terms with her loss. With a disrupted home life and school problems, she seeks refuge in her favourite soap opera, sweet treats and secret readings of her older sister’s diary. But issues soon bubble up, requiring Mimi and her family to confront their grief. A sensitively observed reaffirmation of the importance of love, support and understanding in overcoming our demons. [TD]

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Age 5–8

EITHNE NÍ GHALLCHOBHAIR MAISITHE AG CAROL BETERA TOMÁS NA hORDÓIGE CLÓ MHAIGH EO 2010 (BOG) 64LTH €8.00 ISBN 9781899922543 Scéal greannmhar nua-aimseartha é seo bunaithe ar an seanscéal cáiliúil. Cuireann Tomás beag snas ar mhearchlár an riomhaire le scuab fiacla agus déanann sé sleamhnán as bróga shamhraidh ard bhándearg! Taispeánann sé a neamhspleáchas dúinn in ainneoin a airde. Bainfidh páistí taitneamh as an scéal seo mar is iomaí eachtra atá ag an mbuachaill fiosrach seo! Oiriúnach do pháiste beag le neamhspleáchas sa léitheoireacht. [RM]

JOE O’BRIEN ILLUSTRATED BY JEAN TEXIER ALFIE GREEN AND THE CHOCOLATE COSMOS THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2010 (HBK) 80PP €7.99 ISBN 9781847171962 The Budsville Chocolate Fair is in danger of being cancelled until Alfie enlists the help of the wise old plant and visits the Roaring Rainforest. There’s scarcely a moment when our hero isn’t battling an ogre or escaping from spider plants. The illustrations mingle well with the text, resulting in a lovingly produced book that packs just the right punch. [CW] READ ALSO: Alfie Green and the Conker King; Alfie Green and the Magical Gift

EILEEN O’HELY ILLUSTRATED BY NICKY PHELAN PENNY ON SAFARI MERCIER PRESS 2010 (PBK) 192PP €8.99 ISBN 9781856355728 On a school visit to the zoo, schoolboy Ralph’s pencils are horrified to learn that the zoo is about to be sold to an inky pen factory. Penny, the most astute pencil, realises that their nemesis, Black Texta, is behind the takeover. He must be stopped, with help from the animals. This is an imaginative, entertaining book, with excellent line illustrations. Information-bites are cleverly couched in bouncy dialogue. [MA] READ ALSO: Penny the Athlete; Penny the Star SEE ALSO: www.eileenohely.com

BRIAN PATTEN ILLUSTRATED BY ARTHUR ROBINS THE MOST IMPOSSIBLE PARENTS WALKER BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 94PP £3.99 ISBN 9781406321869 Part of the Racing Reads series for confident readers, this book captures the embarrassment and exasperated affection of preteens beginning to see their parents objectively. Mum’s a belly dancer who thinks a fishnet bodystocking is perfectly acceptable for parents’ evening. Dad’s ponytail and nose ring are beyond apology. Dahlesque in its grotesquery, bursting with lively illustration, Patten’s book is full of humour, warmth and squirm-inducing moments. [AP] READ ALSO: The Impossible Parents Go Green

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Age 5–8

MAL PEET & ELSPETH GRAHAM ILLUSTRATED BY JUAN WIJNGAARD CLOUD TEA MONKEYS WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 56PP £12.99 ISBN 9781406300925 A tea plantation high in the mountains is the playground for young Tashi and a troop of monkeys. But when illness strikes her family, Tashi must take up tea-picking, with help from an unusual source. Simply yet elegantly told, this story is lifted to Himalayan heights by the jewel-coloured illustrations, which rise from the page like steam from tea. A book to be savoured. [CH]

‘CHARLIE SMALL’ CHARLIE SMALL: FOREST OF SKULLS DAVID FICKLING 2010 (PBK) 192PP £4.99 ISBN 9781849920209 Captured by pirates, hitching a lift on a whale and, worst of all, accused of being a rat, Charlie Small, inveterate, if unwilling, time traveller, encounters the usual mix of strange friendships and mortal danger. Apart from a surreal call to his mother, the number of dialogue-free pages pall somewhat. However, this, the eighth journal, is offset by the all-action narrative and the hilarious diagrams and illustrations. [MA] READ ALSO: Seven books in the series

DAVE SHELTON GOOD DOG, BAD DOG, BOOK 1 DAVID FICKLING 2010 (HBK) 64PP £9.99 ISBN 9780385618250 Kirk Bergman and Duncan McBoo are the canine cops roaming the dark streets of Muttropolis. Watch the malevolent mutt that is Wah Wah Johnson, the cigar-touting bulldog Pug Ugly and Gruff Growler as they fight the growling might of our dynamic duo. There are endless puns familiar to lovers of noir detective cinema. This graphic novel is a slapstick adventure that is funny, clever and has real depth in the artwork. Sit, roll over and bring on Book 2! [EB]

JESSICA SOUHAMI THE STICKY DOLL TRAP FRANCES LINCOLN 2010 (HBK) 28PP £11.99 ISBN 9781847800176 Souhami takes Brer Rabbit and the Tar Baby back to their gum-tree roots in the West African jungles. Her earthy collages with bright splashes are very appealing. Hare, an anti-Little Red Hen, does no work but reaps all rewards. When he gets gummed up by the angry animals, he tries another trick. But will this scam come unstuck? A spellbinder to stick with! [CAC] READ ALSO: Mrs McCool and the Giant Cuchulainn

24 BOOKFEST 2010-2011 Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:18 Page 25

Age 5–8

JOEL STEWART DEXTER BEXLEY AND THE BIG BLUE BEASTIE ON THE ROAD RANDOM HOUSE 2010 (HBK) 32PP £10.99 ISBN 9780385617727 Join Dexter Bexley and the Big Blue Beastie on their travelling adventure, which involves dark forests and tap-dancing dragons. There are hardly any words in this story, but every one of them is used cleverly: a bit of alliteration here, a smidgen of humour there; and the typography used for emphasis. The illustrations are at first glance simple yet complex when you look more closely. A lovely, witty, shy, gentle, funny book. [AW] READ ALSO: Dexter Bexley and the Big Blue Beastie

JEREMY STRONG DOCTOR BONKERS! PUFFIN 2010 (PBK) 176PP £4.99 ISBN 9780141327952 Twins Rosie and Dylan, with Alfie and Bandit the cat, are catapulted into a topsy-turvy universe, where rival armies of Egyptians, Vikings and Romans battle to control the ultimate weapon, the Doombuster. To save the planet the children team up with the eccentric inventor of the Doombuster, Dr Bonkers, who hilariously mispronounces words (‘digital watch’ becomes ‘pigglety botch’). As manic as a computer game, this pacy adventure is sure to entertain confident readers. [AGa] READ ALSO: The Hundred-Mile-an-Hour Dog; Batpants! SEE ALSO: www.jeremystrong.co.uk

JENNY VALENTINE ILLUSTRATED BY JOE BERGER IGGY & ME AND THE HAPPY BIRTHDAY HARPERCOLLINS 2010 (PBK) 160PP £4.99 ISBN 9780007283637 The irrepressible Iggy returns to delight young readers. These eight stories include Iggy learning to swim and looking after the school hamster. Valentine creates a family in which love and good humour prevail. It’s refreshing to read about children who don’t get the ‘most wanted’ thing on their birthday list. Berger’s black and white illustrations capture perfectly the spirit of the book. [MNíB] READ ALSO: Iggy and Me

SARAH WEBB ILLUSTRATED BY ANNE O’HARA EMMA THE PENGUIN THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2010 (PBK) 64PP €5.99 ISBN 9781847171955 Emma is a young girl in search of a role. She finally finds her comic calling in this entertaining story. Using the familiar setting of the school play, Sarah Webb skilfully creates a soap opera of characters, humorous incidents and drama. Anne O’Hara invests each character with instantly recognisable individuality. Both ensure this latest addition to the popular Panda series maintains the high standards we expect. [AGa]

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RECOMMENDED READS Age 9–12

DAVID ALMOND MY NAME IS MINA HODDER SEPT 2010 (HBK) 320PP £12.99 ISBN 97803409957253 When Mina leaves school to be home-schooled, she decides to keep a notebook. Sitting in a tree, she observes the world, including the arrival of her new neighbours. Mina writes about astral travelling, missing her father and her intense relationship with her mother, and ponders many existential issues. A remarkable and thought-provoking prequel to Skellig told by an extraordinary, gifted and EDITOR’S CHOICE mesmerising girl. Another gem from this award-winning author. [SQ] READ ALSO: Skellig; The Fire Eaters SEE ALSO: www.davidalmond.co.uk

CAITRÍONA HASTINGS MAISITHE AG ANDREW WHITSON AN GRÉASAÍ BRÓG AGUS NA SIÓGA AN tSNATHAID MHÓR 2009 (CRUA) 26LTH €17.95 ISBN 9780955227127 Tá cuma sepia ar na léaráidí sa leabhar seo, a thugann saghas draíocht d’insint nua den seanscéal álainn ó na Bráithre Grimm. Tá draíocht ag baint EDITOR’S leis an DVD a thagann leis freisin. Le scannán ar ‘Dhéanamh an Leabhair’ CHOICE agus fotheidil dhátheangacha, tá níos mó ná an scéal amháin anseo. Oiriúnach do pháiste 9+ le suim san ealaín agus sa scéalaíocht. [SKK]

RENATE AHRENS TRANSLATED BY SIOBHÁN PARKINSON OVER THE WALL LITTLE ISLAND 2010 (PBK) 145PP €6.99 ISBN 9781848409446 A family split by the Berlin Wall leads to a young girl’s difficulty in accepting a father she had thought dead. This clever story of transition and acceptance is set in Hamburg after the fall of the Wall, and the reunification of Karo’s family reflects the reunification of her country. A thought-provoking book, dealing with world issues and interfamilial relationships, with Parkinson’s translation giving it a contemporary, youthful feel. [PMcG] SEE ALSO: www.renate-ahrens.de

COLIN BATEMAN ICE QUAKE HODDER 2010 (PBK) 244PP £5.99 ISBN 9780340998861 Edge of your seat action all the way in this Arctic adventure as SOS recruits, Michael and Katya, fend off the elements, wolves, ruthless treasure hunters and a man-eating polar bear in their quest to retrieve a fallen satellite. With an environmental theme and Bateman’s trademark humour, this is sure to be a big hit with girls and boys, and will probably be the first in a long line of SOS adventures. [KF] READ ALSO: Fire Storm

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Age 9–12

JOHN BOYNE ILLUSTRATED BY OLIVER JEFFERS NOAH BARLEYWATER RUNS AWAY DAVID FICKLING SEPT 2010 (HBK) 224PP £10.99 ISBN 9780385618953 Noah Barleywater takes flight from his problems into a fantasy forest, encountering many amazing sights, not least a magical toyshop run by an insightful old man whose life story closely resembles Pinocchio’s. A simply written and moving tale with the tragedy of Noah’s mother’s terminal illness at its heart. It brims with references to other well-known children’s stories and will enchant. [PMcG] READ ALSO: The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas

KATE BROWN THE SPIDER MOON DAVID FICKLING (HBK) 80PP £9.99 ISBN 9780385618274 Kate Brown’s The Spider Moon is a rich, character-filled beginning to her new series. Lifted from the pages of the now defunct DFC, The Spider Moon reprints the original series, featuring floating islands and fisher folk. The full-colour spreads provide some unusual panel layouts too, creating a brilliant story effect. Brown’s talent lies in the artwork, and the story of Bekka Kiski throws up plenty of questions that can only be answered after the ‘to be continued’. [DM]

GARRETT CARR THE BADNESS OF BALLYDOG SIMON AND SCHUSTER 2010 (PBK) 240PP £6.99 ISBN 9781847385291 Set in a bleak fictional town in Northern Ireland, this strong début pulls the myth and legend genre kicking and screaming into the 21st century. Ballydog is under threat from an ancient sea monster and it’s up to three intrepid local teenagers to save it. The whole book is beautifully paced, bursting with imagination, and has short, snappy chapters that would suit even the most reluctant reader. More please! [SW] READ ALSO: Lost Dogs (Nov 2010) SEE ALSO: www.garrettcarr.net

CATHY CASSIDY THE CHOCOLATE BOX GIRLS: CHERRY CRUSH PUFFIN SEPT 2010 (HBK) 304PP £10.99 ISBN 9780141384795 Cherry Costello is a girl with a vivid imagination – too vivid for her head teacher who suspends her. When she and her dad move in with Charlotte and her four daughters, Cherry meets Shay, a boy who smells of ‘woodsmoke and ocean’, and things start to get complicated. A thoughtful, touching, and beautifully written novel about being different, and the nature of modern family life. Highly recommended. [SW]

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Age 9–12

EOIN COLFER ARTEMIS FOWL AND THE ATLANTIS COMPLEX PUFFIN 2010 (HBK) 336PP £12.99 ISBN 9780141328027 Artemis is back and this time he aims to save the world from global warming. But an army of evil robots threatens the hidden fairy city of Atlantis and Artemis can’t fight back. Because Artemis is not himself. Our favourite criminal teen mastermind has become… nice. And he has a crush on Holly. The story, told with Colfer’s typical wit, will have readers laughing out loud while waiting in suspense to see what happens next. [AS] READ ALSO: Books 1–6 in the Artemis Fowl series

JUDI CURTIN EVA’S JOURNEY THE O’BRIEN PRESS SEPT 2010 (PBK) 142PP €7.99 ISBN 9871847172242 Eva Gordon lives a charmed life – expensive birthday parties, New York shopping trips. When her dad loses his job, the family move to a smaller house, and Eva has to leave her private school and attend the local one. She’s determined to hate her new life, but when she visits a fortune teller, and then meets the mysterious Ruby, things start to change. A charming, topical story about what really matters in life. [SW] READ ALSO: the Alice and Megan series SEE ALSO: www.judicurtin.com

VANESSA CURTIS ZELAH GREEN: ONE MORE LITTLE PROBLEM EGMONT 2010 (PBK) 240PP £5.99 ISBN 9781405240543 Zelah’s summer holidays are not going well. Her dad is still hopeless, she has a pile of homework not getting done, then Caro, heavy metal listener and self-harmer, turns up and Zelah’s recovery from her OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) comes to an abrupt halt. Curtis has made a serious psychological problem into a read that any teen girl could relate to. [ACJ] READ ALSO: Zelah Green Queen of Clean

LARI DON ROCKING HORSE WAR FLORIS 2010 (PBK) 240PP £5.99 ISBN 9780863157585 When the triplets disappear one morning, older sister Pearl must rely on her older brother’s maps and her own hunting skills to follow the clues, avoid the traps and, perhaps, find her siblings again. Don’s fast-paced, well-crafted tale of betrayal, magic and adventure is also a reflection on choice and destiny. A strong sense of place, good characterisation and a refreshingly competent heroine make this a thoroughly enjoyable read. [JS]

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Age 9–12

GAREN EWING THE RAINBOW ORCHID: ADVENTURES OF JULIUS CHANCER 2 EGMONT (PBK) 48PP £6.99 ISBN 9781405250474 Having not read Volume 1 of The Rainbow Orchid, initially I was a little lost, but Ewing quickly engages the reader in this fast-paced mystery adventure and by the cliffhanger ending I had warmed to his characters so much that I can’t wait for the finale. The drawings echo the clean lines, colour and detail of Hergé (creator of Tintin) and the plot could exist as an alternate Tintin adventure. Most enjoyable. [PL] READ ALSO: The Rainbow Orchid Vol. 1

JEAN FLITCROFT THE CRYPTID FILES: LOCH NESS LITTLE ISLAND 2010 (PBK) 176PP €6.99 ISBN 9781848409408 Vanessa Day is a talented teenager who is still grieving for her mother. On holiday to Scotland, she encounters all sorts of mysterious and supernatural beings as she begins to explore the geography and folklore of Loch Ness. The clever combination of science, historical fact and domestic drama, skilfully woven together by the author, creates a fast-paced novel full of suspense and intrigue. [MW]

BRIAN GALLAGHER ACROSS THE DIVIDE THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2010 (PBK) 192PP €7.99 ISBN 9781847171726 This work of fiction recounts the events of the 1913 Lockout from the perspectives of two friends from opposing sides of the dispute. Liam’s working-class parents admire and support Jim Larkin and his ideals, while Nora’s wealthy wine merchant father is strongly opposed to the idea of trade unions and workers’ rights. Across the Divide provides a good historical account of a still topical subject in a style that will have young readers eagerly turning the pages to see what happens next. Highly recommended. [JP]

CORA HARRISON ILLUSTRATED BY SUSAN HELLARD I WAS JANE AUSTEN’S BEST FRIEND: A SECRET DIARY MACMILLAN 2010 (PBK) 320PP £8.99 ISBN 9780230748897 Based on real events, this novel diary details how a young Jane Austen and her cousin Jenny spend their days at the Austen home after a disappointing spell at boarding school. The girls have rural adventures and dream of romance, all the while making real plans to take more control of their lives. A lovely tale of female friendship and empowerment with beautiful illustrations. [BM] READ ALSO: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

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Age 9–12

DAVE HANNIGAN KICKING ON THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2010 (PBK) 102PP €7.99 ISBN 9781847171894 As best friends Peter and Davey get ready for a new season with Dromtarry Under-11 Gaelic football team, but little do they know what surprises the future holds. First, the arrival of ex-American footballer Shaun Reedy, and then a tragedy that literally splits Dromtarry in two. Can the team overcome the odds and rise to the challenge facing them? Full of parochial rivalry and authentic Irish wit, this heart-warming tale is a must for GAA fans or anyone who just wants a cracking story. [KF] READ ALSO: Tiger Boots by Joe O’Brien

F.E. HIGGINS TALES FROM THE SINISTER CITY: THE LUNATIC’S CURSE MACMILLAN 2010 (HBK) 336PP £.9.99 ISBN 9780230532328 To find the truth behind his father’s sudden and unexplained madness, 12-year-old Rex must escape the clutches of his scheming stepmother and journey to the asylum. In true Higgins’ style, The Lunatic’s Curse is a bloodthirsty and dark tale full of just the right amount of gruesome detail and black humour. Lively prose and an eclectic and somewhat scary character list ensure that Higgins’ latest dark tale will not disappoint. [RC] READ ALSO: The Black Book of Secrets; The Bone Magician; The Eyeball Collector

DEREK LANDY SKULDUGGERY PLEASANT 4: DARK DAYS HARPERCOLLINS 2010 (PBK) 414PP £6.99 ISBN 9780007325979 Derek Landy: UberNerd! UberGod! UberAssassin of Dodgy Reviewers! Dark Days is further proof that Sir Landy is DOWN WITH THE KIDS, understands what makes them tick and when it comes to action-packed mayhem, hilarious one-liners, and pure entertainment is as untouchable as…? an Untouchable Thing??? Darker, edgier and grittier too, it’s the best Skulduggery yet. Just don’t tell the Landy Man I said that or the Ego will have truly landed. [DO’C] READ ALSO: Skulduggery Pleasant 5: Mortal Coil

PATRICIA LYNCH ILLUSTRATED BY SARA BAKER TALES OF IRISH ENCHANTMENT MERCIER PRESS OCT 2010 (HBK) 224PP €19.99 ISBN 9781856356817 The classic Irish folktales retold by Patricia Lynch are back with some new colour. The stories of Finn MacCool, Cuchulain, and more have been reprinted with fresh illustrations by new talent Sara Baker. The bright and eye-catching pictures enhance the action in the stories and will keep readers thoroughly entertained. [AS]

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Age 9–12

JON MAYHEW MORTLOCK BLOOMSBURY 2010 (HBK) 384PP £8.99 ISBN 9781408803929 Separated at birth, twins Josie and Alfie have grown up worlds apart – she as a knife-thrower in a magician’s show and he as an undertaker’s assistant. Thrown together the twins must decipher hidden clues in a note passed to Josie by her dying guardian, while avoiding three crow-like flesh-eating aunts. Mortlock is an enjoyable, fast-paced adventure full of dark humour that manages to be both scary and fun. The sibling rivalry between the twins provides an interesting subplot and ensures appeal for boys and girls. [RC]

ALEX MILWAY MYTHICAL 9TH DIVISION: OPERATION ROBOT STORM WALKER BOOKS (PBK) 224PP £5.99 ISBN 9781406317992 Operation Robot Storm opens with reports of freak summer blizzards in the Welsh peaks. A company of Arctic-trained soldiers has disappeared in the storms and the Mythical 9th Division, a secret troop of Yeti agents, is summoned to help. The book is peppered with illustrations reminiscent of the graphic novel genre. A three-page comic strip introduces each chapter. [SS]

VINCENT MCDONNELL ILLUSTRATED BY PUPILS OF ST ENDA’S COMMUNITY SCHOOL THE CATALPA ADVENTURE: ESCAPE TO FREEDOM THE COLLINS PRESS 2010 (PBK) 128PP €6.99 ISBN 9781848890381 This historical adventure draws the reader in from the very first paragraph. Short sentences are used to very good effect, creating a well-paced story. Style and vocabulary will keep sophisticated young readers reading into the small hours. Chapter titles are well thought out and add to the tension as the story progresses to an exciting climax. A very good read. [DKi]

EOIN MCNAMEE THE RING OF FIVE QUERCUS 2010 (PBK) 256PP £6.99 ISBN 9781849161718 When Danny is sent to boarding school he anticipates the usual bully-filled dormitories, but he couldn’t be more wrong. What follows is a breathtaking adventure into the world of spies and while he finds friends with special abilities, danger awaits where nothing is as it seems and no-one can be trusted. A great adventure story and the first in a promising trilogy. [DC] READ ALSO: The Navigator

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Age 9–12

JOSHUA MOWLL THE GREAT SPACE RACE WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 224PP £7.99 ISBN 9781406309379 Part adventure story, part scrapbook, The Great Space Race is a fast-paced romp crammed with photographs, margin notes and drawings that tell of the Simpsons-like Crankshaw family’s attempts to win $10 million by being the first to land a rocket on the moon. Aimed at 8–12-year-olds, the book has enough humour, farting, madcap inventions and monkey robots to provide an entertaining and rewarding read. [BB]

LINDA NEWBERY ILLUSTRATED BY PAM SMY LOB DAVID FICKLING 2010 (HBK) 224PP £10.99 ISBN 9780385610810 Lucy’s green-fingered grandfather gets help in the garden from a mysterious character called Lob who has existed for generations. Like her Grandpa, Lucy believes in his power and magic. This sensitive and poetically written story evokes all the pleasures of rural life and gardening. A memorable book about the threads that link generations and the power of belief. With pen and ink illustrations throughout, including some atmospheric double spreads, and different size fonts adding visual interest, this is a rewarding and satisfying read. [PO’D] SEE ALSO: www.lindanewbery.com

CAITRÍONA NÍ MHURCHÚ ROBERTO AGUS DRAOI NA gCAT CLÓ MHAIGH EO 2009 (BOG) 101LTH €8.00 ISBN 9781899922550 Úrscéal deas greannmhar a cuireann Disney i gcuimhne do dhuine. Tá an scéal seo dírithe ar shaol Roberto, a cháirde agus na heachtraí a tharlaíonn dóibh. Úsáidtear Gaeilge deas simplí sa scéal seo a bheadh oirúnach do pháistí bunscoile atá ag foghlaim Gaeilge. Bheadh sé ana-dheacair an leabhar seo a léamh gan grá mór do Roberto agus na lánaí cúil. Sar iarracht ón údar. [SD]

PÁDRAIG Ó BAOIGHILL MAISITHE AG PETER DONNELLY AN MARCACH ÓG AN GÚM 2009 (BOG) 42LTH €8.00 ISBN 9781857917628 Scéal deas é seo a scríobhadh i nGaeilge Chúige Uladh. Is é Dónall Óg, buachaill de dhá bhliain déag, priomhcharactar an scéil seo. Is mian leis bheith ina mharcach. Baineann an scéal seo leis an slí ina bhfaigheann sé a mhian. Tá cúpla phictúir deas ar beagnach gach dara leathanach. Bainfidh paíste le suim i gcapaill taitneamh as an leabhair seo. [SKe]

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Age 9–12

PHILIP REEVE A WEB OF AIR SCHOLASTIC 2010 (PBK) 292PP £8.99 ISBN 9781407117591 A splendid sequel to Fever Crumb, A Web of Air follows 16-year-old Fever as she discovers the Sea-Goddess-fearing city of Mayda-at-World’s-End, its moving houses, its secret societies, its plot to kill her and her new friend Arlo. The characters are wonderfully rounded, the set unforgettable and the plot faultless. Masterful. [JS] READ ALSO: The Mortal Engines quartet; Fever Crumb

JUSTIN SOMPER VAMPIRATES: EMPIRE OF NIGHT SIMON AND SCHUSTER 2010 (PBK) 256PP £6.99 ISBN 9781416916529 The fifth instalment follows Connor and Grace Tempest as they come to terms with their family history revealed in Black Heart. Meanwhile Sidorio’s struggle to become King of the Vampirates is thwarted by the Pirate Federation. With plot twists from the very start, Somper is at his swashbuckling best as he continues to write action with a fluidity that just begs you to keep reading. [DC] READ ALSO: Blood Captain; Black Heart

ALI SPARKES WISHFUL THINKING OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS 2010 (PBK) 323PP £5.99 ISBN 9780192756114 A delightfully dark story about Kevin who finds, quite accidentally, his own Celtic god. The trouble is nothing comes for free and the more Kevin and his friends ask for, the deeper they delve into a world of faith and worship. Containing comic moments and a thrilling car chase, this book brings Celtic powers and gods into the 21st century. [MCl] READ ALSO: Frozen in Time SEE ALSO: www.alisparkes.com

BURKHARD SPINNEN TRANSLATED BY SIOBHÁN PARKINSON THE GREAT RABBIT REVENGE PLAN LITTLE ISLAND 2010 (PBK) 223PP €7.99 ISBN 9781848409453 A skilful portrayal of the trials and tribulations involved in moving house and meeting new people seen through the eyes of 10-year-old Konrad. We get a great insight into the homely, everyday life as well as the difficult circumstances and unexpected adventures of a young boy. Spinnen expertly creates a narrative that is accessible to young readers whilst handling issues of divorce and parental relationships with a touch of humour. [SKl]

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Age 9–12

KATE THOMPSON WANTED! BODLEY HEAD SEPT 2010 (HKB) 128PP £7.99 ISBN 9780370329901 Following the success of Highway Robbery, Kate Thompson delivers a new cad and his horse. Wanted! weaves a yarn about Incatitus, Rome’s equine consul, and how the narrator happened to come by owning the horse. Thompson’s mastery of the unreliable narrator makes the slight story sparkle, though readers of Highway Robbery may be cynically waiting for the twist. In Wanted! Thompson has created another crafted short book with genuine humour and pulsating with all of the thrill and hazards of Ancient Rome. [DM]

ANDREAS STEINHÖFEL TRANSLATED BY CHANTAL WRIGHT THE PASTA DETECTIVES CHICKEN HOUSE 2010 (PBK) 208PP £5.99 ISBN 9781906427276 Rico and Oscar are the pasta detectives. It is their mission to discover the true identity of Mr 2000, the kidnapper at large in Berlin. Both Rico and Oscar find it difficult to make friends. Rico’s thoughts often get muddled in his brain, while Oscar can retain vast amounts of knowledge, but becomes as a result overcautious and fearful of the world. This novel shows how children who may be considered ‘different’ can overcome prejudices, develop friendships and, above all, have fun! [CD]

ALISON WALSH HUGH O’FLAHERTY: HIS WARTIME ADVENTURES THE COLLINS PRESS SEPT 2010 (PBK) 128PP €6.99/£5.99 ISBN 9781848890589 Based in Rome during World War II, O’Flaherty and his allies’ heroic deeds help thousands of soldiers hide from the Germans. Employing first-hand accounts and pictures of the characters, Walsh vividly recreates the group’s setbacks and triumphs. In a language appropriate for children, and glossing over many of the more horrible events of this war, the story relates to the history as well as to the spirit of the characters. [AS]

PAT WALSH THE CROWFIELD CURSE CHICKEN HOUSE 2010 (PBK) 320PP £6.99 ISBN 9781906427153 Will, an orphan living at Crowfield Abbey, rescues an injured hob in the forest. The hob, secretly cared for by Will in the monastery, tells the boy about an angel buried in the forest. The bleak 14th-century wilderness is the perfect backdrop to a frightening and tension-filled battle against evil as Will searches for the grave. The dialogue is crisp and at times endearing, in a world peopled by enigmatic characters. [MA]

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Age 9–12

PHILIP WOMACK THE LIBERATORS BLOOMSBURY 2010 (PBK) 298PP £6.99 ISBN 9780747595526 An action-packed fantasy thriller set in contemporary London with as many twists and turns as the streets of the big city itself. Ivo Moncrieff witnesses a fatal accident on the London Underground. As an innocent bystander, he becomes embroiled in the campaign of a pair of madmen intent on imposing their anarchy on the rest of the city. A classic tale of good overcoming evil and a rollercoaster of a read from beginning to end! [HA] READ ALSO: The Other Book

CHRIS WOODING ILLUSTRATED BY DAN CHERNETT HAVOC SCHOLASTIC 2010 (PBK) 400PP £7.99 ISBN 9781407105116 Havoc sweeps us away in an ongoing war between Tall Jake and his distorted minions and the stolen children of the underground movement Havoc. But Malice, the sinister world, seemingly created by the mysterious deity Grendel, isn’t just any old fantasy world. It’s a comic book, drawn by Grendel, and distributed secretely to its unwitting followers. Wooding cleverly combines his own enthralling writing with Dan Chernett’s spontaneous and sketchy style of comic book art to create an engaging new approach to storytelling. [HD] READ ALSO: Malice

Declan realises his love Meet Prim Leary, age 13. Jack knew his Irish cousin New Town Soul is a super- for horses when he is Likes: her pet rat, her best Finn was trouble but natural thriller set in forced to live with his friend Joel. Dislikes: not when Finn gets involved Dublin. What does posh cousin Vicky. But having her mum around with a Latino gang in Geraldine know about she will do anything to any more, living with her inner-city Seattle, things Shane that Joey doesn’t? keep him away from her dad. Original, touching get out of hand. And what secrets lie in precious horse, no matter and brilliantly funny. ISBN 978-1-84840-947-7 / €8.99 the derelict house in who gets hurt. ISBN 978-1-84840-948-4 / €7.99 Blackrock? ISBN 978-1-84840-949-1 / €9.99 ISBN 978-1-84840-946-0 / €8.99 New books fromLittle Island 2 Brookside, Dundrum Road, Dublin 14 / 01 298 3411 / [email protected] / www.littleisland.ie Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:19 Page 36

RECOMMENDED READS Age 12–14

GILLIAN CROSS WHERE I BELONG OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS 2010 (PBK) 352PP £6.99 ISBN 9780192755544 Set in the UK and Somalia, this multilayered story is told through the eyes of three main characters, one of whom has been brought illegally into the UK. Quickly building to an exciting tale involving kidnapping and double-crossing, it keeps the reader turning the pages. In the hands of this experienced storyteller,

EDITOR’S the story moves at a cracking pace. Strong descriptions and good detail of the CHOICE differences between the countries. [JM] SEE ALSO: www.gillian-cross.co.uk

P.R. PRENDERGAST DANCING IN THE DARK THE O’BRIEN PRESS SEPT 2010 (PBK) 185PP €7.99 ISBN 9781847171856 On the surface, Jessie and her older brother James are typical rival siblings. However, one thing makes them very unusual: James is dead – James is a ghost. Right now though, Jessie has more pressing issues to deal with, not least the upcoming dance championships and a fast imploding friendship

EDITOR’S group. Prendergast’s refreshingly original take on family grief and teenage CHOICE relationships in contemporary Dublin tackles these sensitive subjects with an openness and honesty that should be applauded. [TD]

R.J. ANDERSON REBEL ORCHARD BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 304PP £5.99 ISBN 9781408307373 ‘Shut up in the house, with strange things happening all around him that he wasn’t allowed to question, let alone investigate? There was no way Tim could stand it.’ The ‘strange things’ happening to Tim, suspended from his boarding school and forced to stay with a cousin, are largely the responsibility of the Oakenfolk, a community of faeries. The dynamic between faery and real worlds provides the principal theme in a novel refreshingly (and often humorously) off-beat. [RDu] READ ALSO: Knife SEE ALSO: www.rj-anderson.com

TIM BOWLER BLADE 8: RISKING ALL OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS SEPT 2010 (PBK) 160PP £5.99 ISBN 9780192756015 In Risking All, Tim Bowler brings his series of taut thrillers dealing with knife crime to a tense close. Blade is finally dealing with the issues of trust and fatalism that have plagued him and he begins to accept that he may have a future. Bowler’s gritty, clipped style is perfectly suited to the dark subject matter, and the action-packed plot is gripping to the end. [RDo] READ ALSO: Seven titles in the series

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Age 12–14

THERESA BRESLIN PRISONER OF THE INQUISITION DOUBLEDAY 2010 (HBK) 320PP £12.99 ISBN 9780385617031 Saulo, the son of a beggar and a beggar himself, is witness to his father’s wrongful arrest and unjust trial for having allegedly assaulted the town magistrate’s daughter, Zarita. The narrative follows both Saulo’s adventures and Zarita’s dramatic change of circumstances with great mastery. The sense of place and use of language confer a very authentic feel to the novel. Slavery, piracy, great explorations, betrayal, love, suspicion… all these ingredients and more make for a very exciting read! [JS]

LUCY CHRISTOPHER FLYAWAY CHICKEN HOUSE 2010 (PBK) 314PP £6.99 ISBN 9781905294763 Flyaway is the heart-warming story of Isla, a young nature lover, whose passion for swans becomes a driving force when her father is admitted to hospital. At the hospital Isla meets Harry, a young patient, and together they embark on a magical journey to teach a stranded swan to fly. Compelling and surreal, Flyaway is an instantly engaging story that will touch the hearts and open the minds of all who read it. [CO’C] READ ALSO: Stolen SEE ALSO: www.lucychristopher.com

SARAH DESSEN ILLUSTRATED BY VICI LEYHANE ALONG FOR THE RIDE PUFFIN 2010 (PBK) 432PP £6.99 ISBN 9780141327488 Auden is an untypical teenager from a family of high achievers, who never belonged anywhere. However, when she spends the summer with her dad, new stepmum and baby, she begins to forget her status and learns to live. A thoroughly enjoyable read – the characters were believable and ones that all ages can relate to. Combined with snappy dialogue and beautiful imagery, it’s impossible to put down. [SO’D] READ ALSO: Just Listen; That Summer SEE ALSO: www.sarahdessen.com

STEVE FEASEY CHANGELING: BLOOD WOLF MACMILLAN 2010 (PBK) 300PP £5.99 ISBN 9780330470490 In the third book of the Changeling series, Trey has discovered his long-lost family and that he is not the last hereditary werewolf in existence. But far from Lucien, his protector, it may be too difficult for Trey to keep his werewolf nature in check. The fast-paced plot, concerning multiple characters with a dark supernatural focus, will appeal to male readers, particularly Darren Shan fans looking for something new to sink their teeth into. [HCo] READ ALSO: Three other titles in the series SEE ALSO: www.stevefeasey.com

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Age 12–14

MARIE-LOUISE FITZPATRICK TIMECATCHER ORION 2010 (PBK) 256PP £6.99 ISBN 9781842556771 Timecatcher is a time-slip story from the recent Bisto Book of the Year winner. Set in contemporary Dublin, it tells the stories of 20th/21st-century Jessie, ‘ghost boy’ G, 13th-century Master Greenwood and Sullivan Ellz’mede, all linked together by the mysterious ‘Timecatcher’. The book explores notions of time, history and nature, and poses questions about responsibility, choice, trust, friendship, loneliness and hope. Part detective and part fantasy, it twists and turns towards a satisfying conclusion. [JO’H]

MICHAEL GRANT LIES EGMONT 2010 (PBK) 432PP £12.99 ISBN 9781405254298 The children in the Fallen Alley Youth Zone are dealing with hunger and lawlessness, but now the possibility of contacting their families outside the wall threatens to tear apart their already fragile existence. A Lord of the Flies for the iPod generation, issues of violence, cruelty and sexuality mean Lies is not for the faint-hearted, yet the unrelenting thrills make it a must-read for lovers of action. [DC] READ ALSO: Gone; Hunger

CORA HARRISON OBAIR MHARFACH AN GÚM 2009 (BOG) 64LTH €5.95 ISBN 9781857917727 Scéal bleachtaireachta. Ar thaithí oibre na hidirbhliana atá Tom agus a cháirde nuair a bhfaigheann seandálaí bás go mistéireach. Tá na cáirde i mbun fiosraithe faoin mbás agus cé go bhfuil an críoch beagainín simplí, tá an scéal oiriúnach do dhéagóirí óga. Cairdeas, mistéir, seandálaíocht – go léir suite in Éirinn. Leabhar maith do dhéagóir ar chúrsa sa Ghaeltacht le gluais beag a dhéanann an scéal níos éasca dóibh siúd ar bheagán Ghaeilge. [SKK]

BARRY HUTCHISON INVISIBLE FIENDS: MR MUMBLES HARPERCOLLINS 2010 (PBK) 288PP £5.99 ISBN 9780007315154 In the first book of what is intended to be a series, Kyle is reunited with an invisible friend from his early childhood. Unfortunately, this friend has mutated into a stitch-lipped psychopath who wants to cause Kyle some very real damage. Despite some conveniently magical saves and questions left unanswered (no doubt kept for the following books), this is virtually one long chase scene with plenty of pace, action and atmosphere. A skilfully crafted horror, well suited to fans of Darren Shan. [OMcG] SEE ALSO: www.barryhutchison.com

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Age 12–14

JOANNA KENRICK OUT BARRINGTON STOKE 2010 (PBK) 64PP £5.99 ISBN 9781842997642 Natalie falls in love with her best friend, Will, but before she plucks up the courage to tell him, he reveals that he actually loves Paul. Natalie is shocked! How will this affect their friendship? This publisher specialises in short books for older children who are dyslexic or struggling to read. The content is stripped of superfluous words, complex plots and expressive language, but still manages to successfully confront issues common to young people. [JM]

SACI LLOYD THE CARBON DIARIES 2017 HODDER 2009 (PBK) 416PP £6.99 ISBN 9780340970164 Laura Brown and her friends continue their adventures in a world with carbon ration cards – and now there is a water war. Though Laura’s love life is shaky, she is determined to ensure the success of their band, Dirty Angels. Hilarious in parts, with interesting photos and documents sprinkled throughout, adding an authentic feel. A great politically aware story packed with friendship, action, and serious food for thought with a brilliant original voice. Highly recommended. [PO’D] READ ALSO: The Carbon Diaries 2015

GEMMA MALLEY THE RETURNERS BLOOMSBURY 2010 (PBK) 288PP £6.99 ISBN 9781408800904 Life for Will Hodge is tricky – after he witnesses his mother’s tragic death his world changes drastically. Left with unsettling memories, and labelled as strange and paranoid, he soon discovers that people actually are following him. When his past catches up with him, Will struggles for more than he bargained for. Set in an alternative future, The Returners is both compelling and challenging – another powerful novel from a critically acclaimed author. [SQ] READ ALSO: The Declaration; The Resistance SEE ALSO: www.gemmamalley.com

SARRA MANNING NOBODY’S GIRL HODDER 2010 (PBK) 376PP £5.99 ISBN 9780340883730 Bea sees herself as the ultimate good girl – so when ultra cool Ruby invites her to Spain, she’s afraid it’s a practical joke. When it all goes wrong, Bea ends up in Paris searching for the father she’s never met, with gorgeous Toph for company. Bea is one of the most endearing characters you’ll ever come across. The twists and turns of her adventure are absorbing, as she learns that being herself is actually pretty good. [NMaB] READ ALSO: Let’s Get Lost; Guitar Girl

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Age 12–14

ROBERT MUCHAMORE SECRET ARMY HODDER 2010 (PBK) 363PP £6.99 ISBN 9780340956502 A continuation of the Henderson’s Boys series finds the recruits struggling to keep their covert operations unit active. They have to compete and outsmart adults in a complex series of exercises to prove the unit is sustainable. Fans of the Henderson’s Boys books will not be disappointed, especially when the story reaches an exciting climax. Secret Army is another clever read from Muchamore. [TM] READ ALSO: The Escape; Eagle Day; Brigands MC and the rest of the CHERUB series SEE ALSO: www.cherubcampus.com; www.hendersonsboys.com

TOM O’NEILL OLD FRIENDS: THE LOST TALES OF FIONN MAC CUMHAILL LITTLE ISLAND 2010 (PBK) 430PP €9.99 ISBN 9781848409415 Tom O’Neill blends contemporary narrative with traditional Irish folklore in this interesting re-imagining of the stories of Fionn Mac Cumhaill. After coming to live on a farm near a fairy fort, Dark becomes drawn into the fascinating realm of the Sí and the Fianna. Immersed in both their world and ours, Dark learns what it really means to be a hero. Featuring a host of magical and memorable characters, this also contains a useful glossary and pronunciation guide. [CO’H]

WILL PETERSON TRISKELLION 3: THE GATHERING WALKER BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 378PP £6.99 ISBN 9781406319682 Rachel and Adam thought their terrifying paranormal adventure was over when they escaped the sinister Hope Project. But they are on the run again in the final part of this gripping trilogy. The inventive plot is rich in adventure and suspense, and is full of curious characters who keep you guessing about their intentions. Fans of the series will not be disappointed. [RDo] READ ALSO: Triskellion; Triskellion 2: The Burning

CELIA REES THE FOOL’S GIRL BLOOMSBURY 2010 (HBK) 320PP £10.99 ISBN 9780747597322 The Fool’s Girl is a sinister take on Twelfth Night. Violetta travels from Ilyaria (Croatia) to Elizabethan England in search of her country’s missing relic. Accompanied by Feste, the family jester, she encounters an extraordinary cast of characters, including Shakespeare, on her quest. Fast and gripping, the adventure is often violent and grisly, an aspect counterpointed by the emerging love story between Violetta and Stephano. The writing is faithful to the period and the depiction of Shakespeare reads authentically. [CM] SEE ALSO: www.celiarees.com

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Age 12–14

SARAH REES BRENNAN THE DEMON’S COVENANT SIMON AND SCHUSTER 2010 (PBK) 440PP £6.99 ISBN 9781847382900 Following on from The Demon’s Lexicon, Mae discovers that her brother Jamie is being headhunted by the leader of the Obsidian Circle and calls on Nick and Alan Ryves to help her save him. Wrapped in a world of love triangles, sibling friction and betrayal, Mae finds her loyalties torn. Witty dialogue balances the dark world of demons and magicians, giving an atmospheric read. A world worth discovering. [PH] READ ALSO: The Demon’s Lexicon SEE ALSO: www.sarahreesbrennan.com

LOUIS SACHAR THE CARDTURNER BLOOMSBURY 2010 (HBK) 352PP £12.99 ISBN 9780408808504 Alton’s mother insists that Uncle Lester is their favourite relative. He also happens to be their richest. When summoned to help the blind, cranky old man identify his cards at bridge, Alton smells boredom while his mother sniffs wills. But Alton learns more than bridge as he supplies his uncle’s eyes. This tender, whimsical book turns up tricks and trumps, laughter and love. A wonderful read for bridge doyens and, yes, dummies too. [DT] READ ALSO: Holes; Small Steps SEE ALSO: www.louissachar.co.uk

MICHAEL SCOTT THE NECROMANCER: THE SECRETS OF THE IMMORTAL NICHOLAS FLAMEL DOUBLEDAY 2010 (PBK) 480PP £10.99 ISBN 9780385619035 The fourth instalment in the fast-paced Nicholas Flamel series opens with twins Josh and Sophie back in San Francisco. Within pages, Sophie has been abducted and Josh is in London once more, wondering if he can trust immortals Nicholas and Petronelle Flamel to help. Throw John Dee, the Dark Elders and Joan of Arc into the mix and fantasy mayhem ensues. [KaMcG] READ ALSO: The Alchemyst; The Magician; The Sorceress

MARCUS SEDGWICK WHITE CROW ORION 2010 (HBK) 225PP £9.99 ISBN 9781842551875 An isolated community, the arrival of a young outsider and some very strange goings-on amongst the locals – the hallmarks of classic Sedgwick horror. Yet White Crow contains some surprising departures too. The main thrust of the three-way narrative is set in the present day. It follows Rebecca, recently moved to the mysterious coastal village of Winterfold: home to some very dark and grisly secrets. Tension, twists and terror await both protagonist and reader. Truely haunting! [TD]

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Age 12–14

DARREN SHAN THE SAGA OF LARTEN CREPSLEY: BIRTH OF A KILLER HARPERCOLLINS SEPT 2010 (HBK) £12.99 ISBN 9780007315857 Birth of a Killer tells the origin story of Larten Crepsley – a character who appeared in one of Darren Shan’s earlier series. The novel spans several decades, showing Larten’s development both as a character and as a vampire. This is as gripping as any of Shan’s previous books, with excitement and surprises littered in every page. The book lays the foundation for a brilliant new series. [CQ] READ ALSO: The Saga of Darren Shan series; The Demonata series SEE ALSO: www.darrenshan.com

GEERT SPILLEBEEN TRANSLATED BY TERESE EDELSTEIN AGE 14: AN IRISH BOY SOLDIER THE COLLINS PRESS SEPT 2010 (PBK) 224PP €6.99 ISBN 9781848890565 A powerful and moving story based on historical facts, this is the life of Patrick who, aged 12, enlists in the Irish militia by taking his older brother’s identity. His dreams of glory and adventure come true when World War I breaks out. However, he learns that being a soldier is no game. Vividly recounted, this story illustrates the tragedy of lost youth and the unsettling truths of war. [MCl] READ ALSO: Kipling’s Choice

TODD STRASSER IF I GROW UP SIMON AND SCHUSTER 2010 (PBK) £5.99 ISBN 9781847387318 Strasser has a mission to raise awareness about social injustice and inner-city housing projects where gangs rule. Twelve-year-old DeShawn lives with his sister and Gramma in an apartment where even the curtains have bullet holes. This gritty realistic urban drama follows DeShawn as he grows up, and highlights the lack of choices open to him. Each section has a startling statistic and a rap lyric. Strasser succeeds in bridging cultures with this well-meaning and worthwhile novel. [PO’D]

DEIRDRE SULLIVAN PRIM IMPROPER LITTLE ISLAND SEPT 2010 (PBK) 250PP €7.99 ISBN 9781848409484 Younger teenagers will enjoy the story of Primrose, who has to deal with all the usual afflictions of her age and stage (disloyal friends, super-embarrassing father, an emerging interest in boys) as well as a few that are much more serious. Written with a light touch and a good ear for teenage vernacular, Prim Improper will strike a chord with girls who know just how hard it is to be thirteen. [KaMcG]

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Age 12–14

ALAN TITLEY GLUAISEACHT AN GÚM 2009 (BOG) 134LTH €7.50 ISBN 9781857917550 Scéal breá nua-aimseartha a bhfuil dírithe ar déagóirí. Insítear an scéal seo sa chéad phearsa, trí súile an phríomhcarachtar. Is leabhar éifeactach, coscrach é seo. Osclóidh sé suile déagóirí inniú ar na fadhbanna atá sa triú damhan. Tá Gaeilge deas simplí sa leabhar a bheadh go maith chun suim sa teanga a spreagadh agus a fhorbairt. Is leabhar a bheadh go maith sa seomra ranga nó sa bhaile. Oiriúnach don lae inniú. [SD]

SARAH WEBB ASK AMY GREEN: BRIDESMAID BLITZ WALKER BOOKS OCT 2010 (PBK) 240PP £5.99 ISBN 9781406316933 The third adventure for Amy Green and her teenage aunt Clover sees them plotting an exciting trip to Paris in search of bridesmaid dresses for Amy’s mum’s wedding. Meanwhile Amy’s dad is completely absorbed in his new baby and she’s feeling left out. An entertaining and light-hearted read, filled with melodrama, teenage angst and of course the usual friend and boyfriend trouble. [NMaB] READ ALSO: Boy Trouble; Summer Secrets SEE ALSO: www.askamygreen.com

JACQUELINE WILSON ILLUSTRATED BY NICK SHARRATT THE LONGEST WHALE SONG DOUBLEDAY SEPT 2010 (HBK) 160PP £12.99 ISBN 9780385618151 Ella’s world turns upside down when her mother goes into a coma, after her brother Samson is born. Ella struggles to cope with a chaotic but well-meaning stepdad, and minding Samson. She visits her mother every day; talking to her endlessly – even though she can’t respond – and immerses herself in a special whale project. Wilson’s new novel is a real tear-jerker, but as all the elements of the story tie together, there’s a good ending in store. [AN] READ ALSO: Little Darlings SEE ALSO: www.jacquelinewilson.co.uk

MARKUS ZUSAK FIGHTING RUBEN WOLFE DEFINITIONS 2010 (PBK) 224PP £5.99 ISBN 9781862309579 The story of brothers Cam and Rube, who, in an effort to make money for their unemployed father and struggling family, become involved in the world of boxing. Rube’s a handsome winner, popular with the crowd. Cam often loses, but shows great heart. It’s about brotherhood, family pride and love. While the ending falls a bit short, Cam’s voice is sensitive and affecting. [MB] READ ALSO: When Dogs Cry (prequel to Fighting Ruben Wolfe); The Book Thief SEE ALSO: www.markuszusak.com

BOOKFEST 2010-2011 43 Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:20 Page 44

RECOMMENDED READS Age 14+

SHEENA WILKINSON TAKING FLIGHT LITTLE ISLAND SEPT 2010 (PBK) 300PP £9.99 ISBN 9781848409491 Cousins Declan and Vicky both live in Belfast, but worlds apart. When Declan’s mum attempts suicide, he leaves his tough estate to stay with Vicky. Middle-class Vicky is ashamed of her ‘wee hard man’ cousin, while he thinks she’s a stuck-up princess, but eventually they begin to bond over Vicky’s horse, Flight. A gritty, credible novel about the broadening of horizons and EDITOR’S CHOICE the struggle to become the person you want to be. [HCa]

FRANCISCO X. STORK THE LAST SUMMER OF THE DEATH WARRIORS SCHOLASTIC 2010 (HBK) 344PP £10.99 ISBN 9781407120980 Pancho, having lost mother, father and sister, has nothing precious left to lose, not even himself, so violence or death hold no fear for him. It is this that attracts Daniel, who is facing his own imminent end from brain cancer. Set in New Mexico, the novel subtly explores issues of class and racism through the friendship between Pancho, of Mexican heritage, and Daniel, an ‘Anglo’. EDITOR’S CHOICE Life-affirming, this is a gripping must-read for adults and teenagers alike, though perhaps especially teenage boys. Superb. [PaM] SEE ALSO: www.franciscostork.com

DAVID ALMOND ILLUSTRATED BY DAVE MCKEAN SLOG’S DAD WALKER BOOKS SEPT 2010 (HBK) 80PP £8.99 ISBN 9781406322903 From the dynamic duo that created The Savage, Slog’s Dad is a novel in words and pictures. Slog’s dad is dead, but Slog is convinced that the scruffy man sitting on the bench is him: ‘He’s come back again, like he said he would. In the spring.’ Slog’s mate Davie is sceptical. This is a beautifully rendered novel about life and death with words by multi-award-winner David Almond and the distinctive art of Dave McKean. [KiH]

JENNIFER LYNN BARNES RAISED BY WOLVES QUERCUS SEPT 2010 (PBK) 417PP £6.99 ISBN 9780857380296 After a renegade werewolf kills her parents, Bryn is taken in by the werewolf pack that saved her. As she grows up, she struggles to stay human within the tight controls that the pack bonds place on her life. When the pack leader takes in a boy that she feels a strange connection to, Bryn might be forced to sacrifice her humanity to keep him alive. This is a fast-paced, exciting read and an interesting twist on the traditional teenage werewolf story. [AoW]

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Age 14+

DERMOT BOLGER NEW TOWN SOUL LITTLE ISLAND 2010 (PBK) 200PP £8.00 ISBN 9781848409460 Feeling adrift at his new school in Blackrock, Co Dublin, Joey makes friends with another new boy, the charismatic Shane. He’s soon warned off his friendship by Geraldine, who knew Shane two years previously. As the mystery of the tragedies that have dogged Shane’s life deepen, Joey must choose between his two friends and the lives they represent. An engrossing adventure with a supernatural twist. [LG] SEE ALSO: www.dermotbolger.com

KEVIN BROOKS iBOY PENGUIN 2010 (PBK) 304PP £6.99 ISBN 9780141326108 Sixteen-year-old Tom finds himself with unexpected new abilities after fragments of a shattered iPhone become lodged in his brain. He is forced to learn that with power comes responsibility as he takes on the local gang responsible for the rape of his friend Lucy. Brooks’s strength is his sense of humour, which relieves the tension of the book’s dark themes. Although the characters could be more developed, Tom is an engaging protagonist and the premise will appeal to fans of science fiction and urban fantasy. [KaH]

JIM CARRINGTON INSIDE MY HEAD BLOOMSBURY 2010 (PBK) 352PP £6.99 ISBN 9781408802717 In Inside My Head, Jim Carrington has succeeded in building a very real and malicious psychological bully. Interestingly, the narrative is split three ways, between Gary (bullied), David (bully) and Zoe (new-girl-in-town), with echoes of Melvin Burgess’s teenage novels. It is an interesting plot-driven story and certainly a book to raise issues. [DM]

KATE CARY BLOODLINE EGMONT 2010 (PBK) 336PP £6.99 ISBN 9781405254687 This sequel to Dracula begins in the trenches of World War I and reintroduces several characters from the original novel, as well as their descendants. As in Dracula, the story unfolds through letters, journals and newspaper cuttings and Cary has successfully captured the writing style and atmosphere of the early twentieth century. Though Bloodline’s vampire vacillates more than the original Dark Lord, there’s enough doomed romance to please Twilight fans and enough gothic horror for those who like their vampires a little more old-school than Edward Cullen. [HCa]

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Age 14+

JOHN DICKINSON WE DAVID FICKLING 2010 (PBK) 304PP £10.99 ISBN 9780385617895 The World Ear implant, the WE, now connects most of Earth’s inhabitants allowing them to effortlessly communicate and download information. But Paul Munro must learn to live without the WE when he joins a small team on a desolate moon, a new environment which takes its toll on his body and mind. Atmospheric and deceptively simple, WE is a slow-building psychological thriller as rewarding as it is challenging. An absolute must for sci-fi fans and those looking for a thought-provoking read. [KuMcG] SEE ALSO: www.john-dickinson.net

MICHAEL FORD THE POISONED HOUSE BLOOMSBURY 2010 (PBK) 288PP £6.99 ISBN 9781408804506 Evocative and gripping, this thrilling ghost story set in Victorian London is unputdownable. Scullery maid Abigail Tamper is subject to the cruelty of the tyrannical Mrs Cotton, the insanity of Lord Greave, and many unexplained events. A story of forbidden love unfolds to reveal a deadly secret. This atmospheric novel perfectly evokes nineteenth-century London, capturing both the city and the chatterings of the servants’ hall. Add to this the Victorian fascination with ‘mediums’, and you have Upstairs Downstairs meets a Wilkie Collins mystery. A must-read. [EB]

CATHERINE FORDE FIFTEEN MINUTE BOB EGMONT 2010 (PBK) 256PP £6.99 ISBN 9781405229302 Rory’s dad is an embarrassment – a failed musician who lives in his own self- obsessed world. Rory himself has little time for music. Until he finds himself humming a strangely addictive tune… But who performs it? When it turns out that it’s Rory’s two best friends collaborating with his dad, Rory suddenly takes an interest. If his mates can do it, surely Rory can too! Fifteen Minute Bob is a fun read for anyone with an interest in music or digital media. [EF] SEE ALSO: www.catherineforde.co.uk

JOHN GREEN PAPER TOWNS BLOOMSBURY 2010 (PBK) 305PP £6.99 ISBN 9781408806593 The week before graduating from his Florida high school, Quentin Jacobsen answers his childhood friend Margo’s appeal for help in revenge against betrayal. When she goes missing the next day, Quentin both follows her clues and takes her position in school as an avenger of wrongs. A funny and quirky school-story and road trip that will appeal to older readers who, like Margo, yearn for something more. [LG] READ ALSO: Looking for Alaska

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Age 14+

MATT HAIG THE RADLEYS WALKER CANONGATE 2010 (PBK) 346PP £10.00 ISBN 9781406330281 An apparently normal family with a strange dislike of sunshine and addiction to meat, the Radleys are trying their best to hide their vampire nature to their neighbours … and to their own children. But instinct is a powerful thing which can bring chaos in its wake. Humour, strong characters, attention to psychological detail and a distinct narrative voice which manages to convey the occasional adult or graphic content with a light touch, all these combine to make The Radleys the original crossover it claims to be. [JS]

CARRIE JONES NEED BLOOMSBURY 2010 (PBK) 320PP £6.99 ISBN 9781408807408 Teenagers feeling bereft after the end of the Twilight series will find some solace in Need, which is based on the same successful formula – an unsettled teen moves to live with a relative at the other end of the country, only to find her new town is a hive of supernatural activity. The creepy atmosphere of Maine is well crafted and there are some enjoyably quirky characters. Those who enjoy this tale of ill-matched love and adventure can look forward to the follow-up, Captivate. [DKe]

CELINE KIERNAN THE REBEL PRINCE THE O’BRIEN PRESS OCT 2010 (PBK) 320PP €10.99 ISBN 978187171122 This final book in the excellent historical fantasy trilogy sees Wynter Moorehawke and her friends, the King’s illegitimate son Razi and his confidant Christopher, reunited with Alberon, Razi’s brother and the rightful heir. But when Alberon unveils his chilling plans, Wynter is torn between loyalty to the Kingdom and her love for her friends. Tight writing, passion and violence, plus plenty of skulduggery and intrigue combine to make this a compelling read. [SW] READ ALSO: The Poison Throne; The Crowded Shadows SEE ALSO: www.celinekiernan.com

PITTACAS LORE I AM NUMBER FOUR RAZORBILL 2010 (HBK) 320PP £12.99 ISBN 9780141332475 Nine children are sent to Earth as the last hope of their dying planet. As they try and blend in, the creatures that destroyed their home are hunting them down. Until they develop sufficient powers to fight them off, the children are protected by a charm which ensures that they can only be killed in order of their numbers. Three have already died, John is number four… Although the author tries to fit in a lot of information, this is a promising start to an interesting new series. [AoW]

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Age 14+

JANDY NELSON THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 368PP £7.99 ISBN 9781406326307 When her sister Bailey dies suddenly, quiet music-geek Lennie is thrown into emotional turmoil. Despite her lack of romantic experience, she finds herself with two suitors, one of whom is Bailey’s ex, causing even more confusion. A magical tale about grief, love and redemption, this is the kind of book you don’t just read, you live. In quiet moments I still hear Lennie’s voice whispering in my ear. Highly recommended. [SW]

PATRICK NESS MONSTERS OF MEN WALKER BOOKS OCT 2010 (PBK) 624PP £7.99 ISBN 9781406326123 The third in Ness’s Chaos Walking trilogy, this further delves into the effects of war on Todd, Viola and the ex-slave ‘1017’. The damage caused by wanting to do right or avoid evil, but not having the strength for either, is detailed in devastating clarity. A fine conclusion to the trilogy. [LG] READ ALSO: The Knife of Never Letting Go; The Ask and the Answer

WILLIAM NICHOLSON RICH AND MAD EGMONT 2010 (PBK) 432PP £6.99 ISBN 9781405247399 Rich and Maddy are two teenagers on a quest to find a ‘can’t eat, can’t sleep’ kind of love. The book deals with deception in friendships, marital problems and violence in relationships, but it’s primarily an intense love story, recounting the pain and joy of first love. Nicholson’s writing is sharp and direct, and he successfully depicts passion from both the male and female perspectives. Sexually explicit and uncensored, but also tender and realistic. [LJC]

MARY E. PEARSON THE ADORATION OF JENNA FOX WALKER BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 272PP £5.99 ISBN 9781406323016 After a serious accident, Jenna moves with her family to start a new life in California. But as she watches old videos of herself, she feels she can’t connect with the person she used to be, and realises her family are keeping something from her. Set in the future, this is a cautionary tale about the power of science which, although somewhat lacking in subtlety, raises some interesting ethical questions. [DKe]

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Age 14+

BALI RAI THE GUN BARRINGTON STOKE JAN 2011 (PBK) 96PP £6.99 ISBN 9781842998588 After Jonas and his friends Kamal and Binny find a discarded gun used in a shooting, they finally have a way to drive away the bullies from the neighbouring council estate. But Kamal is not content to merely use the gun for scare tactics and the temptation to use it to steal soon proves too strong. His aggressive actions have repercussions that change the boys’ lives forever. This gritty tale of urban violence is a gripping read for reluctant teenage readers. [EF] SEE ALSO: www.balirai.co.uk

DYAN SHELDON AND BABY MAKES TWO WALKER BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 240PP £6.99 ISBN 9781406315486 Readers will love this witty, insightful book following the story of 15-year-old Lana coping with an unplanned pregnancy. At first, she thinks this is exactly what she’s always wanted: to leave school, have a life of her own and finally show her controlling mother she has grown up. Anyway, having a baby beats taking her GCSEs! Little does she know the huge responsibility she is undertaking. Thought-provoking and open-minded, this book treats a difficult situation with compassion and makes for an entertaining, often shocking, read. [LBMcD]

SARAH SINGLETON THE ISLAND SIMON AND SCHUSTER 2010 (PBK) 304PP £6.99 ISBN 9781847382962 Arriving in India ahead of his travelling companions, Otto succumbs to the beauty of the beaches and the strange, late-night parties. But his backpacking adventure is shattered by a brutal murder and now he is desperate to find his friends and prove his innocence before his own life is threatened. Singleton’s vivid descriptions immerse the reader in the scents and sounds of India while hinting at a dark, and sometimes violent, world hidden beneath. A very enjoyable thriller. [EMcG] READ ALSO: The Poison Garden

C.J. SKUSE PRETTY BAD THINGS CHICKEN HOUSE 2010 (PBK) 272PP £6.99 ISBN 9781906427252 SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD TWINS IN CANDY-STORE CRIME SPREE! Beau and Paisley Argent have hit the headlines for the second time in their lives – as 6-year-olds they survived three days alone in the woods – as they become a two-person crime wave in an effort to find their ex-con father. Narrated by rebellious, angry Paisley and diffident Beau in alternating chapters, this is a fast-paced, witty and moving début. [HCa]

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Age 14+

PAUL STEWART & CHRIS RIDDELL WYRMEWEALD: RETURNER’S WEALTH DOUBLEDAY 2010 (HBK) 416PP £12.99 ISBN 9780385617338 Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell have cooked up a great new series – hard on the heels of the Edge Chronicles. This time they have created a ragged world filled with treachery and wyrmes (fire-breathing dragon-types that come in as many different shapes and sizes as you can imagine). Each chapter is inscribed with an illustration from Riddell, most notably bringing the vicious wyrmes to life. This is high fantasy at its best, where Stewart is most confident, covering some of life’s more interesting lessons. [DM]

TABITHA SUZUMA FORBIDDEN DEFINITIONS 2010 (PBK) 418PP £6.99 ISBN 9781862308169 Suzuma tackles the taboo subject of sibling incest in this credible and heartbreaking novel. In a family where Dad has long deserted and a wayward mother is not there for the kids, Lochan, 17, and Maya, 16, take on the roles of parenting their three younger siblings. Their understanding of each other deepens and their love develops. Sensitively written, with alternating chapters from the protagonists’ point of view, letting the reader get inside their heads. Recommended for very mature readers. [PO’D] READ ALSO: A Note of Madness

L.A. WEATHERLY ANGEL USBORNE OCT 2010 (PBK) 512PP £7.99 ISBN 9781409521969 Angels, who feed off human energy, are destroying mankind and the only one who may be able to stop them is Willow. Willow, half-angel, and Alex, an angel killer, run for their lives and end up falling in love. Although the plot is thin at times and the romance comes to dominate the story, this novel is sure to appeal to fans of Stephenie Meyer. The original premise along with good writing will make this stand out against other teenage books of its kind. [AS]

CAROL LYNCH WILLIAMS THE CHOSEN ONE SIMON AND SCHUSTER 2010 (PBK) 224PP £6.99 ISBN 9781847389381 Growing up in an isolated polygamist community, 13-year-old Kyra is torn between her love for her family and her desire for autonomy. She’s already carved out small freedoms for herself – playing the piano, secretly reading novels and developing a friendship with a boy – but when she’s chosen as the seventh wife of her elderly uncle, her need to escape becomes more urgent. A moving and compelling story that manages to make Kyra’s reasons for staying as convincing as her reasons for leaving. [HCa]

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RECOMMENDED READS Poetry

SELECTED AND ILLUSTRATED BY RAYMOND BRIGGS THE PUFFIN MOTHER GOOSE TREASURY PUFFIN SEPT 2010 (HBK) 160PP £14.99 ISBN 9780141329666 As part of their 70th anniversary, Puffin has reprinted The Puffin Mother Goose Treasury, making available to a whole new generation a classic which first won the Kate Greenaway Award in 1966. A treasure trove of over 250 nursery rhymes and 800 illustrations by Raymond Briggs, this collection is a must for every household

EDITOR’S and one best described by Briggs himself: ‘The verses live on in our memories for CHOICE the whole of our lives … They become part of us forever.’ Age 4+ [EW]

ALLAN AHLBERG ILLUSTRATED BY BRUCE INGMAN EVERYBODY WAS A BABY ONCE AND OTHER POEMS WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 64PP £9.99 ISBN 9781406321562 This warm, funny collection marks a fourth winning collaboration between writer Allan Ahlberg and illustrator Bruce Ingman. The poems are filled with rhyme and genuine wit, which are bound to keep young readers entertained. There’s the boy who whistles and makes sausages dance. There’s the ‘Summer Snowmen’ who last for years and never melt. And there are wistful pieces, like the lovely ‘When I was just a Little Child’, which perfectly describes how wide the world can seem from a child’s perspective. Age 5+ [EW]

SELECTED BY PAUL COOKSON THE WORLD AT OUR FEET: FOOTBALL POEMS MACMILLAN 2010 (PBK) 96PP £4.99 ISBN 9780330510868 Paul Cookson is Poet in Residence at the National Football Museum UK, and his knowledge of football and his enthusiasm for the game certainly wins through in his choice of poems for this energetic collection. Perfect poems for anyone addicted to football, this anthology, gathered from poets such as Roger McGough, Claire Bevan, Dave Calder and others, manages to cover every facet of the game – from watching the matches, supporting your heroes, the joys of winning and the heartbreak of losing and much more. Age 6+ [EW]

GABRIEL FITZMAURICE ILLUSTRATED BY STELLA MACDONALD DO TEACHERS GO TO THE TOILET?/ AN dTÉANN MÚINTEOIRÍ GO TIGH AN ASAIL? MERCIER PRESS 2010 (PBK) 96PP €7.99 ISBN 9781856356572 An attractive leabhar bun os cionn or ‘flip book’ where poet and illustrator are both demandingly loud and softly humble. Zany, hilarious, smelly as slurry, with poos, spits, kisses, sweeties and knickers, these are poems which will have young readers laughing out loud – plus there are lovely lines of poetry too, like Fitzmaurice’s description of ‘eyes as brown as deep’ or, when hesitating at the pool, he speaks of ‘the bottom’s very down’. The poet cries ‘Let us out for God’s sake!’ – and he does! All ages. [SC]

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Poetry

TONY MITTON ILLUSTRATED BY PETER BAILEY PLUM BARN OWL BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 122PP £5.99 ISBN 9781903015858 The poems of Mitton’s delicious collection rhyme with ease and humour, and will appeal to young readers of poetry. They will find in Plum dreamy, quirky poems about (amongst other things) elephants, wizards, nits – and there’s even a poem addressed to The Hag of Beara, the writer of one of the oldest poems in the Irish language. A quiet, lyrical collection, this book will challenge children to dream and enjoy the imaginative world of poetry. Age 7+ [EW]

MICHAEL ROSEN ILLUSTRATED BY JOE BERGER MICHAEL ROSEN’S BIG BOOK OF BAD THINGS PUFFIN 2010 (PBK) 224PP £7.99 ISBN 9780141324517 Whenever Michael Rosen does his poetry shows, he usually tells a story called ‘Michael’s Big Book of Bad Things’, which he has now successfully turned into a new collection of the same name. Rosen specifically wanted this book to be ‘full of noises’, because ‘that’s the way poems come alive’. And the poems are certainly alive in this anthology – an exuberant testament to Rosen’s quirky, irreverent, always entertaining voice, which will have children and adults too committed as readers from the very first line. Age 7–10 [EW]

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The Irish have lost at What happens when the Battle of Kinsale, your best friend ought and Hugh O'Neill, the to be your enemy? great Ulster chieftain, Two young friends from must depart Ireland across the social divide forever. But his son are caught up in the Con has disappeared. dramatic events of the Can he be found? Dublin 1913 Lockout. Danger is everywhere Age 10+ and time is running out! ‹7.99/£6.99 pb Age 10+ ISBN 978-1-84717-172-6 ‹7.99/£6.99 pb ISBN 978-1-84717-202-0 OUT NOW

OCTOBER

For more details on these and other great new The O'Brien Press, 12 Terenure Road East, Rathgar, Dublin 6. children's books, visit P: 01 4923333; F: 01 4922777; E: [email protected] www.obrien.ie today! www.obrien.ie Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:20 Page 53

RECOMMENDED READS Information Books

JACQUI BAILEY A COMPLETE GUIDE TO SCOUTING SKILLS DOUBLEDAY 2010 (HBK) 256PP £14.99 ISBN 9780385616980 This really is the COMPLETE guide that it claims to be. It is a must for young adventurers who want to know how to survive in the great outdoors. There is very useful information and practical help throughout on camping, cooking, wildlife, safety and everything else outdoor types need to know when relying on personal skills. This practical guide will provide, not hours, EDITOR’S but years of enjoyment! Age 12+ [DKi] CHOICE

CHRIS PACKHAM CHRIS PACKHAM’S NATURE HANDBOOK DORLING KINDERSLEY 2010 (HBK) 256PP £14.99 ISBN 9781405355261 This attractive, sturdy handbook is a user-friendly mine of factual information for every young and not-so-young naturalist. Topics are classified according to the various terrains, from garden to tundra, which nurture the mesmerising biodiversity of plant and animal life. Each topic is presented

EDITOR’S with easily absorbed chunks of informative text, accompanied by fascinating CHOICE photographic detail. Not only a stimulus for already seasoned naturalists, it could persuasively encourage the conversion of the uninitiated. Age 9+ [JD]

NICK BAKER NICK BAKER’S BUG ZOO DORLING KINDERSLEY 2010 (HBK) 64PP £7.99 ISBN 9781405353489 This highly informative introduction to the world of bugs is a must-have on the shelf of every young naturalist. Nick Baker’s explanation of bugs’ habitats will prove extremely satisfying to young readers. The use of highly detailed photos and child-friendly notes and sketches will make learning and participating in naturalism a fun-filled, rewarding experience for all ages, especially those in the 8–10 age group. [KK] READ ALSO: The Insect Detective

FRANCES BARRY LET’S SAVE THE ANIMALS WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 26PP £9.99 ISBN 9781406312492 This engaging flip-the-flap book will encourage young conservationists to be aware of our planet and its fragile nature. Ten different endangered animals are highlighted, combined with some very zany facts about each. With colourful illustrations and flaps to be turned, this book will keep the interest of younger children while simultaneously encouraging an interest in conservation issues. Age 5+ [ÁNC] SEE ALSO: www.francesbarry.com

BOOKFEST 2010-2011 53 Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:20 Page 54

Information Books

JANE BINGHAM ON THE EDGE: EXCITING ESCAPES EVANS 2010 (HBK) 32PP £12.99 ISBN 9780237541453 Exciting Escapes retells the stories of eleven famous escapes from prisons, shark attacks and air crashes. Learn of the cunning and bravery of people like Papillon, Hoku Aki and Juliane Koepcke. You can also test yourself with an ‘Escaper’s Quiz’ at the end. Chapters are short and factual, illustrated by photographs. A good book for history or documentary lovers. Age 9–11 [EAK] READ ALSO: Seriously Risky Jobs

LUCY COUSINS MAISY’S BOOK OF THINGS THAT GO WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 14PP £8.99 ISBN 9781406321722 Using various modes of transport, Maisy explores the concept of movement. Flagged as a book for toddlers, this book with tabs to pull will equally delight somewhat older readers. Age 0–4 [ÁNC] READ ALSO: Maisy Bakes a Cake SEE ALSO: www.maisyfun.com

MARTYN COX LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC DHONNAGÁIN GAIRDÍN AN NÁDÚIR FUTA FATA 2009 (CRUA) 80LTH €10.95 ISBN 9781906907129 Is leabhar gleoite, dathúil é seo. Tá na grianghrafanna go hálainn agus tá an t-eolas leagtha amach go deas simplí. Tá na siombailí a úsáidtear an-soiléir agus ciallaíonn seo go bhfuil an leabhar soléite, fiú do pháiste le beagáinín Gaeilge. Leabhar deas chun suim sa gharraíodóireacht a chothú i bpáiste timpeall 8 bliana – ón gcathar nó ón tuath – agus tá sé oiriúnach do leabharlann na scoile freisin. [SKK]

JUDI CURTIN ILLUSTRATED BY WOODY FOX ALICE & MEGAN’S COOKBOOK THE O’BRIEN PRESS NOV 2010 (PBK) 154PP €9.99 ISBN 9781847172150 This is a colourful cookbook which is very easy to read. Each mealtime is colour-coded for quick reference. Well written and imaginatively illustrated, this will be a hit with young cooks. Safety and hygiene are given a prominent position and the humorous approach to the recipes will ensure that fans of Alice and Megan will embrace healthy cooking with gusto! Age 9+ [SKe]

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Information Books

PATRICK DILLON ILLUSTRATED BY P.J. LYNCH THE STORY OF BRITAIN WALKER BOOKS OCT 2010 (HBK) 352PP £18.99 ISBN 9781406311921 While the combined stories of Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England are told, the emphasis is on the part played by England due to its position of power within the aforementioned quartet. From 1066 to the present, historical, scientific and political events are recorded with interesting and fascinating detail. PJ Lynch’s sumptuous illustrations capture, with succinct detail, the spirit of each era and the individuality of its characters. Age 12+ [DKi] READ ALSO: The Usborne History of Britain: Vikings and Anglo-Saxons

CLIVE GIFFORD CYCLING EVANS 2010 (HBK) 32PP £11.99 ISBN 9780237541521 This is one of a series of educational sports books aimed at introducing children to various categories of sport, in this case cycling. The book takes you through all aspects of cycling from learning to cycle and bike maintenance to professional levels of cycling. The book is methodically laid out, with excellent photographs that link with section headings. A glossy production and thought-provoking read. Age 9+ [TF] READ ALSO: Gymnastics; Skateboarding

DAN GILPIN ILLUSTRATED BY SIMON BASHER PLANET EARTH KINGFISHER 2010 (PBK) 128PP £6.99 ISBN 9780753418543 A wealth of information for the budding Earth scientist is packed into this pocket-sized book. Part of a science series, its appeal lies in its simple clarity. Topics range from Earth structure and geographical features to weather and climate zones. Each feature, accompanied by humorous personified illustrations, presents and explains itself in the first person, effectively engaging the young scientist with the varied voices of the planet Earth. Age 9+ [JD]

TRANSLATED BY PAUL HARRISON WINDOW ON THE WORLD: COLOUR ZERO TO TEN 2010 (HBK) 32PP £11.99 ISBN 978180895957 This book, one of a series of eight, certainly lives up to its name. Colourful pages depict various aspects of life around the world. Connections between diverse peoples are highlighted. Simple sentences accompany each page. It is the visual impact of the book that is most appealing. This series would be equally good for reflective perusal by individual children and oral language development at home or in the classroom. Age 5+ [DKi]

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Information Books

CLARE HIBBERT ILLUSTRATED BY SIMONA DIMITRI I’M BUSY EVANS 2010 (HBK) 24PP £12.99 ISBN 9780237542016 This book explores various feelings ranging from friendly and excited to lonely and scared. The feelings are cleverly explored in the context of a child organising a birthday party. He feels friendly when he invites his friends and lonely when someone can’t attend. The pictures are both expressive and colourful and the sign language illustrations on each page are clear and easy to follow. [RM] READ ALSO: I’m Tired; I’m Sad; I’m Happy

BRYONY JONES ILLUSTRATED BY REBECCA FOX FABULOUS FRUIT ZERO TO TEN 2010 (HBK) 14PP £5.99 ISBN 9781840896145 This attractive book features a combination of brightly coloured illustrations and photographs of a wide variety of fruit. It is visually appealing and would be highly suitable for very young readers. This book provides good opportunities for oral and reading language development on the days of the week and descriptive tasting adjectives. A robust and stimulating book for little hands! Age 4+ [CF] READ ALSO: Very Tasty Vegetables

ANDREW MARR WHO’S IN CHARGE? DORLING KINDERSLEY 2010 (HBK) 96PP £10.99 ISBN 9781405350693 ‘Jaw jaw is better than WAR WAR.’ Churchill’s words sum up the aims of this book that challenges children to ask questions and argue back. It is attractively laid out using photographs, colourful graphics and replicas of historical election posters. It is a direct call to action for children of the modern world who are seeking answers to politically sensitive issues. Ideal for use as a debating resource. Age 9+ [EAK]

JENNIFER MOORE-MALLINOS ILLUSTRATED BY MARTA FÀBREGA IT’S CALLED DYSLEXIA THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2010 (PBK) 36PP €9.99 ISBN 9781847172037 A book on dyslexia for children! Sarah tells how her enthusiasm for learning to read and write at school turns to confused frustration, especially as she wants to read all those dinosaur books. How she accepts her condition and makes progress is told in simple narrative and excellent full-page illustrations, empathising with the emotions of children grappling with dyslexia. Great for paired reading! Age 9+ [JD]

56 BOOKFEST 2010-2011 Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:20 Page 57

Information Books

JENNIFER MOORE-MALLINOS MAISITHE AG MARTA FÀBREGA LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC DHONNAGÁIN TÁ SIONDRÓM DOWN AR LÁRA FUTA FATA 2010 (BOG) 31LTH €8.95 ISBN 9781906907105 Tá Siondróm Down ar Lára agus ar dtús tá na páistí eile neirbhíseach fuithi. Nuair a bhuaileann siad le Lára, áfach, ní chuireann a difríocht isteach orthu mar is leir nach bhfuil sí ach beagáinín difriúil. Tá na pictiúir go deas agus tá eolas faoi Siondróm Down ag deireadh an leabhair do dhaoine fásta. Scéal álainn domhain é seo. [SKe] LEIGH FREISIN: Imithe Amú; Tá Mé An-Mhór le Mamó agus Daideo; An bhfuil Tusa Cúthail? le Nuria Roca

MARISSA MOSS & WE ARE WHAT WE DO COMMUNITY INTEREST COMPANY 31 WAYS TO CHANGE THE WORLD WALKER BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 80PP £5.00 ISBN 9781406327151 Contributions from 4,386 children helped the author compile 31 ‘actions’ to improve the world. From eco-friendly to human-friendly, each ‘action’ is presented using vibrant graphics and punchy humorous text with eye-catching headings: Teach your granny to text! Don’t sing in the shower! Walk your dad! In group discussions or silent reading this should make the careless more considerate and the considerate even more so. Good stuff. Age 6+ [JD] SEE ALSO: www.wearewhatwedo.org

GLENN MURPHY ILLUSTRATED BY MIKE PHILLIPS SPACE, BLACK HOLES AND STUFF SCIENCE MUSEUM, MACMILLAN 2010 (PBK) 253PP £5.99 ISBN 9780330508933 This funny, informative book is packed with interesting topics such as galaxies, eclipses and red dwarves. The narrative is very child-friendly and the wordsearches, puzzles and quizzes make this an interactive read. Murphy answers every question a child could have about space in a down-to-earth way! Readers aged 10+ are sure to like his witty style and realise that science can be fun! [CO’S]

LAOISE NÍ CHOMHRAÍ MAISITHE AG BARRY MURPHY AG TAISTEAL LE TARLACH SA PHOLAINN AN GÚM 2009 (CRUA) 69LTH €10.50 ISBN 9781857917413 Imíonn Tarlach go Pólainn leis a chara Adás le haghaidh an Nollaig. Taispeánann Adás an chathair do Tarlach agus tá sé an tógtha le gach rud. Téann siad ag sciáil, tugann siad cuairt ar dhaoine éagsúla is baineann siad triail as gach sort bia. Is breá le Tarlach cultúr, stair agus saol Phólainneach. Tá a lán le foghlaim ón leabhar seo. Is leabhar suimúil, ildaite, difrúil é. [BD]

BOOKFEST 2010-2011 57 Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:20 Page 58

Information Books

OXFAM LEAGAN GAEILGE LE SEOSAMH Ó MURCHÚ ÁR nAINMHITHE AN GÚM 2010 (BOG) 26LTH €6.50 ISBN 9781857917772 Leabhar ildaite é seo. Tá an griangrafanna go hiontach. Léimeann siad os do chomhair. Tá siad lán do mhothucháin. Cé nach bhfuil mórán scríofa ar gach leathanach, tá a lán eolais ann. Tá an téacs go breá soiléir agus tá an fóclóir nádúrtha agus suimúil. Oiriúnach do pháistí 5–8 a bhfuil líofa sa teanga agus le neamhspleáchas nua sa léitheoireacht. Oiriúnach freisin do phaistí a bhfuil coimeád acu ar theangacha éagsúla. [BD]

PATRICKGEORGE A DROVE OF BULLOCKS ISBN 9780956255808 A FILTH OF STARLINGS ISBN 9780956255815 PATRICKGEORGE 2009 (PBK) 48PP £9.99 Everyone’s heard of a school of whales, but what about a dazzle of zebras? These charming picturebooks introduce group names in the animal kingdom. Each illustration contains a visual pun: for example a pod of dolphins is depicted listening to iPods. Concise text informs about each animal, insect, fish or bird. The books are attractive and clever, and much fun is to be had interpreting the pictures. Age 5+ [EMcC]

WILL PETTY ILLUSTRATED BY JENNIE MAIZELS MY POP-UP BODY BOOK WALKER BOOKS OCT 2010 (HBK) 10PP £14.99 ISBN 9781406317923 This clever book brings the reader all the way from information about genetic inheritance, birth and how the systems of the body work to allow human beings do all the things they are capable of doing – and more. The pop-ups are very effective in showing the interior of a variety of working parts and how they operate. The text elaborates with factual information. Age 9+ [IK]

KJARTAN POSKITT ILLUSTRATED BY ROB DAVIS THE MURDEROUS MATHS OF EVERYTHING SCHOLASTIC 2010 (PBK) 96PP £12.99 ISBN 9781407103679 This book joins the bestselling Murderous Maths series. Claiming to have (nearly) all the answers to EVERYTHING in maths, the book presents an impressive range of facts, tips and shortcuts. The clever use of story and appealing illustrations explain maths terms and issues in a humorous and interesting manner. Sure to appeal to readers who enjoy a good mystery and mind-boggling problems. Age 9+ [LK]

58 BOOKFEST 2010-2011 Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:20 Page 59

Information Books

MATTHEW REINHART & ROBERT SABUDA ENCYCLOPEDIA MYTHOLOGICA: GODS & HEROES WALKER BOOKS 2010 (HBK) 12PP £19.99 ISBN 9781406322460 The perennial pop-up book format here dramatically presents an overview of world mythologies, from jackal-headed Anubis of Egypt to hammer-wielding Thor to Quetzalcoatl, the Aztec serpent-god of wisdom. The highly informative text, with fold-over flaps, presents more pop-up surprises. The authors’ ingenuity further fascinates, as the wonders of Jason’s ship Argo or of the Greek pantheon of gods relaxing on Olympus literally unfold before one’s eyes. Age 9+ [JD]

KIRSTEEN ROGERS & TORI LARGE ILLUSTRATED BY RUTH RUSSELL JUNIOR ILLUSTRATED MATHS DICTIONARY USBORNE 2010 (PBK) 136PP £9.99 ISBN 9780746088791 This is a concise, cleverly written and beautifully illustrated dictionary for children. It offers definitions of over 450 key mathematical terms and concepts. Helpful examples and illustrations, useful hints and tips are liberally provided throughout. It is a terrific homework-helper for both children and parents and also a very useful resource for teachers. Age 9+ [LK] SEE ALSO: www.usborne-quicklinks.com

SAM AND SUSAN STERN SAM STERN’S EAT VEGETARIAN WALKER BOOKS 2010 (PBK) 187PP £9.99 ISBN 9781406319750 The recipes in this book are attractive and doable. Easy-step instructions will make inexperienced cooks want to have a go. Ingredients are generally accessible and balanced menus are recommended throughout. Cuisine ranges over many lands, thereby encouraging a broadening of tastes and interest in different cultures. Tasty and satisfying breakfasts are described along with quick snacks, lunch and dinner menus. Beautiful photographs make reading this book a mouth-watering experience. Teens. [DKi]

ANN TURNBULL ILLUSTRATED BY SARAH YOUNG GREEK MYTHS WALKER BOOKS OCT 2010 (HBK) 168PP £15.00 ISBN 9781406300833 A wide range of stories is attractively presented. Mythical events concerning gods and goddesses, monsters of ancient times and tales, such as Pandora’s Box, that give meaning to popular phraseology are recounted in a formal but interesting and lively style. Colour illustrations are striking and reflect artwork of the time in question. They enhance the text and create a sense of authenticity. Age 9+ [SD]

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MARTYN COX, LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC DHONNAGÁIN GAIRDÍN AN NÁDÚIR €10.95 (CRUA), ISBN 9781906907129 CORA HARRISON ÁINE NÍ GHLINN, CAROL BETERA A MHASIGH OBAIR MHARFACH NURIA ROCA, BRONNTANAIS AGUS €5.95 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917727 MAISITHE AG MARTA FA` BREGA, FÉIRÍNÍ EILE LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC € KAZUNO KOHARA, 8.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781899922673 DHONNAGÁIN LEAGAN GAEILGE LE AN GÚM AN BHFUIL TUSA CÚTHAIL? TAIBHSÍ SA TEACH MARIA BODEN, €8.95 (BOG), ISBN 9781906907099 CAROL BETERA A MHASIGH €5.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917543 CIARA CHAINTEACH JENNIFER MOORE-MALLINOS, €8.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781899922680 MAISITHE AG MARTA FA` BREGA, CLAIRE LYONS, LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC MAISITHE AG CARTOON SALOON LIAM MAC UISTÍN, DHONNAGÁIN CINE SHIABRA MARTIN FAGAN A MHASIGH IMITHE AMÚ! €8.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917642 CAD A THARLA DON EOLAÍ €8.95 (BOG), ISBN 9781906907082 ÓG? TADHG MAC DHONNAGÁIN, €8.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781899922697 JENNIFER MOORE-MALLINOS, MAISITHE AG KIERON BLACK MAISITHE AG MARTA FA` BREGA, GRUAIG FHINN HEATHER HENNING LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC €7.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917741 AN GHEALACH MHÓR BHUÍ DHONNAGÁIN €8.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781899922703 TÁ MÉ AN-MHÓR LE MAMÓ LAOISE NÍ CHOMHRAÍ AGUS LE DAIDEO AG TAISTEAL LE TRALACH €8.95 (BOG), ISBN 9781906907075 SA PHOLAINN €10.50 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917413 JENNIFER MOORE-MALLINOS, MAISITHE AG MARTA FA` BREGA, EIBHLÍS NÍ DHONNCHADHA, LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC MAISITHE AG DOMHNAL Ó BRIC DHONNAGÁIN VINCENT MCDONNELL, TÁ SIONDRÓM DOWN AR NÓINÍN AGUS RÓLLAÍ ILLUSTRATED BY PUPILS OF PÓLLAÍ ST ENDA’S COMMUNITY SCHOOL LÁRA €8.95 (BOG), ISBN 9781906907105 €9.50 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917475 THE CATALPA ADVENTURE: ESCAPE TO FREEDOM FRIEDA VAN RAEVELS, PADRAIG Ó BAOIGHILL, € 6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848890381 MAISITHE AG DIRK NIELANDT, MAISITHE AG PETER DONNELLY LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC AN MARCACH ÓG GEERT SPILLEBEEN, DHONNAGÁIN €8.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917628 TRANSLATED BY TERESE EDELSTEIN MÉIG AGUS CÓILÍN: AN LÁ BREITHE OXFAM, AGE 14: AN IRISH BOY €9.95 (CRUA), ISBN 9781906907112 LEAGAN GAEILGE LE SEOSAMH SOLDIER Ó MURCHÚ €6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848890565 ÁR NAINMHITHE ALISON WALSH €6.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917772 HUGH O’FLAHERTY: HIS ALAN TITLEY WARTIME ADVENTURES €6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848890589 GLUAISEACHT RENATE AHRENS, TRANSLATED €7.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917550 BY SIOBHÁN PARKINSON OVER THE WALL €6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409446

DERMOT BOLGER NEW TOWN SOUL LAURENCE BOURGUIGNON, €8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409460 MAISITHE AG MICHAËL DERULLIEUX, CAITRÍONA NÍ MHURCHÚ LEAGAN GAEILGE LE TADHG MAC JEAN FLITCROFT DEIREADH BÁIRE: DHONNAGÁIN THE CRYPTID FILES: SRAITH CHAILITÍN 3 MAC TÍRE NA DRAÍOCHTA LOCH NESS €8.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781905560646 €9.95 (CRUA), ISBN 9781906907136 €6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409408

60 BOOKFEST 2010-2011 Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:21 Page 61

MAEVE FRIEL EILEEN O’HELY, DAVE HANNIGAN THE LANTERN MOON ILLUSTRATED BY NICKY PHELAN KICKING ON €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409439 PENNY ON SAFARI €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171894 €8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781856355728 GERALDINE MEADE CELINE KIERNAN FLICK THE REBEL PRINCE: THE €8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409507 MOOREHAWKE TRILOGY: BOOK 3 TOM O’NEILL €10.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171122 OLD FRIENDS: ESTHER GÖBL UÍ NUALLÁIN, THE LOST TALES OF FIONN MAISITHE AG EMILY COLENSO OISÍN MCGANN MAC CUMHAILL RUBALL TRIOBALL MAD GRANDAD’S € €9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409415 8.00 (BOG), ISBN 9780956492609 DOPPELGANGER, O’BRIEN FLYER NO. 19 MARK O’SULLIVAN ANNMARIE MCCARTHY, LEAGAN € GAEILGE LE RÉ Ó LAIGHLÉIS 5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171979 WHITE LIES (TÉACS DÁTHEANGACH / €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409422 BILINGUAL TEXT) JENNIFER MOORE-MALLINOS, FUNGIE IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE DYSLEXIA ASSOCIATION OF BURKHARD SPINNEN, €12.00 (BOG), ISBN 9780956492616 TRANSLATED BY SIOBHÁN IRELAND, PARKINSON ILLUSTRATED BY MARÍA FA` BREGA THE GREAT RABBIT IT’S CALLED DYSLEXIA REVENGE PLAN €9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847172037 €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409453 MICHAEL BRENOCK JOE O’BRIEN, KEVIN STEVENS THE IRISH GARDENER’S ILLUSTRATED BY JEAN TEXIER THIS AIN’T NO VIDEO GAME, HANDBOOK ALFIE GREEN AND THE KID! € CHOCOLATE COSMOS € 9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171931 8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409477 €7.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847171962 JUDI CURTIN DEIRDRE SULLIVAN ALICE & MEGAN’S COOKBOOK JOE O’BRIEN PRIM IMPROPER €9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847172150 TIGER BOOTS € 7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409484 €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847172099 JUDI CURTIN SHEENA WILKINSON EVA’S JOURNEY P.R. PRENDERGAST TAKING FLIGHT €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847172242 DANCING IN THE DARK € 9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848409491 €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171856 NITA FITZGERALD, ILLUSTRATED BY FRANCESCA TOMI REICHENTAL CARABELLI BOY FROM BELSEN IT’S GREAT BEING LITTLE €11.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847172273 €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171764 SARAH WEBB, AUBREY FLEGG ILLUSTRATED BY ANNE O’HARA FUGITIVES! A STORY ABOUT GABRIEL FITZMAURICE, EMMA THE PENGUIN, ILLUSTRATED BY STELLA THE FLIGHT OF THE EARLS O’BRIEN PANDA NO. 38 € MACDONALD 7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847172020 €5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171955 DO TEACHERS GO TO THE BRIAN GALLAGHER TOILET?/AN DTÉANN ACROSS THE DIVIDE MÚINTEOIRÍ GO TIGH AN €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171726 ASAIL? € 7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781856356572 BRIAN GOGARTY, ILLUSTRATED BY ROXANNE PATRICIA LYNCH, BURCHARTZ OF THE CARTOON ILLUSTRATED BY SARA BAKER SALOON LORNA MCCORMACK, TALES OF IRISH THE ADVENTURES OF ILLUSTRATED BY STEPHEN WYLIE ENCHANTMENT SHAMROCK SEAN I CAN SIGN: THE ALPHABET €19.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781856356817 €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171924 €8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780955791871

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Competitions…

DESIGN-A-COVER COMPETITION

For the third year running, CBI has teamed up with The O’Brien Press to give budding designers the opportunity to see their artwork featured on the cover of a professionally published book. We are looking for YOUR help in re-jacketing Michael Scott’s Irish horror classic October Moon, first published in the early 1990s. With a new edition due to be launched in Spring 2011, this chilling werewolf story needs a striking new look that will help boost its appeal to young readers today, as well as evoking a strong sense of what the book is about. So if you think you’re up to the challenge and would like to see your design gracing the shelves in your local library or bookshop, pick up an entry form at your local library or see www.childrensbooksireland.ie for further details.

Previous winning entries Closing date: Monday, 1st November 2010

Motivate school children to read & raise money for people living with Multiple Sclerosis

Tel: 01 678 1600 Email: [email protected] or visit www.msreadathon.ie Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:21 Page 63

In this year’s festival poster image, illustrator Kevin Waldron shows a black cat and three white mice reading happily together. In fact, the four friends enjoy reading so much, they are setting up a book club where they can all meet every week and discuss their favourite books. The only problem is, they are having trouble agreeing on a name… Now we’re looking for YOUR help to come up with the perfect name for their book club and in the process win some fantastic prizes for you and your nominated school or library!

THE PRIZE: The winner chosen by CBI will receive a selection of top titles, tailored for their age and interests. A donation of books to the value of €1,000 will also be made to the winning entrant’s school or nominated public library. Five runner-up prizes of festival posters signed by Kevin Waldron will also be awarded.

WHAT TO DO: First, you will need to come up with a name for the cat and mouse book club – only the most original, amusing or unusual names need apply! Secondly, taking the poster image as your inspiration, complete the following tie-breaker in 50 words or less:

The cat turns the page with his tail and…

Sample answer: The cat turns the page with his tail and they keep reading and reading so long that they all start to get really hungry. The mice want cheese for dinner, but the cat is in the mood for something a little different. ‘How about some Mice Cream?’ he suggests!

HOW TO ENTER: Ask for an entry form at your local library or alternatively submit your entry via the CBI website www.childrensbooksireland.ie before Monday, 1st November 2010.

BOOKFEST 2010-2011 63 Book Fest 2010.18:Body 11/08/2010 18:21 Page 64

Celebrate the Children's Book Festival with Ireland's leading independent publisher

New Books for Autumn OUT NOW The Rebel Prince Book 3: The Moorehawke Trilogy OUT NOW Celine Kiernan Dancing in the Dark The eagerly-awaited P.R. Prendergast final chapter in the An extraordinary new internationally- book from a great new acclaimed fantasy Irish writer. Things haven't trilogy from Irish author been easy for Jesse since Celine Kiernan. her brother died. Her Age 13+, 10.99/£9.99 pb, parents are lost in grief ISBN 978-1-84717-112-2 and she has no-one to turn to. Can dancing help her find her feet again? Age 10+, 7.99/£6.99 pb, ISBN 978-1-84717-185-6 OCTOBER Alice & Megan's OUT NOW Cookbook Eva's Journey Judi Curtin Judi Curtin Alice & Megan are New from best-selling author back - in the kitchen! Judi Curtin. Eva is the girl who A fantastic has everything, but when her cookbook jam- dad loses his job, her world packed with lots of turns upside down. Will things yummy recipes, and ever be the same again? great tips & advice. Age 10+, 7.99/£6.99 pb, Age 10+, 9.99/£8.99 pb, ISBN 978-1-84717-224-2 ISBN 978-1-84717-215-0

OUT NOW Kicking On OUT NOW Dave Hannigan It's Great Being Little The Dromtarry Under- Nita Fitzgerald 11 team is busy Illustrated by Francesca training for the new Carabelli season, but when A beautifully illustrated picture something happens book for little people who just that changes all their can't wait to be big! lives, they discover Age 3+, 7.99/£6.99 pb, that it's having the ISBN 978-1-84717-176-4 guts to take a shot at goal that matters - whatever the Visit www.obrien.ie outcome! Age 10+, 7.99/£6.99 pb, today for lots more ISBN 978-1-84717-189-4 fantastic books for all ages

The O'Brien Press, 12 Terenure Road East, Dublin 6. P: 01 4923333; F: 01 4922777; E: [email protected]; www.obrien.ie