The Wishing Spell, Land of Stories book 1 By Chris Colfer (ISBN 978-0316201575)

This is Book 1 of a fast-paced adventure story that uniquely combines our modern day world with the enchanting realm of classic fairy tales. If you read fast enough, you can get all the way to Book 6 “Land of Stories – Worlds Collide” to be released mid-July. For more fun, arts & crafts around the book: http://thelandofstories.com/moreadventures/

The Midnight Gang by David Walliams (ISBN 978-0008164614)

Many reviewers often describe David Walliams as the modern-day Roald Dahl as they both know understand what makes kids tick. Midnight Gang is his latest offering, a story about friendship, theatre and magic…and making dreams come true. For more fun, arts & crafts around the book: https://www.worldofdavidwalliams.com/rajs-shop/

For those who love Roald Dahl’s stories.

Timmy Failure: The Cat Stole My Pantsby By Jon Scieszka / Stephan Pastis (ISBN 978-0763697334)

This is the 6th and latest book in this charming yet poignant slapstick graphic novel series. In the sixth book in Stephan Pastis’s hilarious series, Timmy is being threatened and must rely on his new partner to solve the mystery — and possibly save his life! For more fun, arts & crafts around the book: http://www.timmyfailure.com/fun-stuff/

For those who love “Flat Stanley”

Battle Bunny by Jon Scieszka and Mac Barnett (ISBN 978-1406360189) When Alex is given a silly, sappy picture book called Birthday Bunny, he picks up a pencil and turns it into something he'd actually like to read: Battle Bunny. Funny and subversive, a great summer-time read from the founder of GuysRead.com.

The Poet's Dog by Patricia MacLachlan (ISBN 978-0062292629)

From Newbery Medal winner Patricia MacLachlan comes a poignant story about two children, a poet, and a dog and how they help one another survive loss and recapture love. Dog-lovers and budding poets with a taste for fantasy will enjoy this heart-warming story of how special friends can heal a broken heart.

Summer Reading is Killing Me! by Jon Scieszka / Lane Smith (ISBN 978-0756967819)

This is book no. 7 out of 16 hilarious Time Warp Trio stories about how history should have happened. See what happens to Sam, Joe, and Fred

when The Book sucks them into a world full of characters from their hated summer reading list. For more fun, arts & crafts around the book:

http://www.timewarptrio.com/adventures/

For those who love “The Stinky Cheese Man”

Lulu’s Mysterious Mission by Judith Viorst (ISBN 978-1442497467)

This is the third and final book in a series of illustrated chapter books by Judith Viorst. Starring exasperating but lovable Lulu - who likes to

pause to talk directly to readers - each book is an adventure full of hilarious hijinks and delightful twists.

Pottymouth and Stoopid by James Patterson (ISBN 978-0316349635)

Prolific author James Patterson's bestselling book is an important story about bullying that delivers more than just laughs. A great

conversation starter for parents to read alongside their kids.

For AVID readers aged 7+

At the Bottom of the World: Jack and the Geniuses by Bill Nye and Gregory None (ISBN 978-1419723032)

TV personality Bill Nye the Science Guy takes readers on a scientific adventure in this first book of a new series that features real-world

science along with action and a mystery that will leave kids guessing until the end, making these books ideal for STEM education.

The Abominables by Eva Ibbotson (ISBN 978-1419707896) The last novel of renowned literary great Eva Ibbotson. With unforgettable characters and thoughtful messages about the environment and advocacy, this is a briskly funny adventure in her classic, much-loved style.

For ASPIRING readers aged 7+

The Terrible Two get Worse By Mac Barnett (ISBN 978-1419716805) About two devious pranksters, this is Book 2 in the “Terrible Two” series that celebrates inventiveness, friendship, and the power of teamwork—for good, or for terrible. For more fun, arts & crafts around the book: http://terribletwo.com/

For those who love "Diary of a Wimpy Kid"

For ASPIRING readers aged 10+

Because of Mr. Terupt By Robert Buyea (ISBN 978-0385738828) The first of three empathetic yet funny books about their favourite teacher, Mr. Terupt. Featuring seven different narrators, each with a unique story, and each with a different perspective on what makes their teacher so special.

Funny Girl: Funniest. Stories. Ever By Betsy Bird (ISBN 978-0451477316)

Funny Girl is a collection of uproarious stories, rollicking comics, rib-tickling wit, and more, from 25 of today’s funniest female writers for kids, including Raina Telgemeier, Cece Bell and Lenore Look.

Shadow Jumper By J.M Forster (ISBN 978-099307090)

A thrilling story with contemporary themes like bravery and overcoming

adversity, about a boy who is allergic to sunshine. He shadow jumps at dusk to feel alive, which leads him to mystery and adventure.

Close to Famous By Joan Bauer (ISBN 978-0142420171)

Foster hopes to become famous by baking the world's best cupcakes. Full of humor, unforgettable characters, surprises, and lots and lots of

heart, this is Joan Bauer at her most engaging.

For those who love to bake and cook.

Wildwood By Colin Meloy (ISBN 978-0062024688)

Book 1 of the “Wildwood” trilogy, a fantasy-adventure series illustrated by Carson Ellis, about the magic that fringes reality, about the intensity of childhood, about friendship, and the wonders of the wildness. For more fun, arts & crafts around the book: http://www.wildwoodchronicles.com/

For fans of “The Chronicles of Narnia”

For AVID readers aged 10+

Flying Lessons and Other Stories By Ellen Oh (ISBN 978-1101934593) If you are looking for short, diverse fiction - this is your book! From 10 award-winning authors – including Grace Lin, Matt de la Peña and Kwame Alexander – come ten distinct and vibrant stories.

Murder Most Unladylike By Robin Stevens (ISBN 978-0141369761)

The first gripping, Agatha Christie-style mystery starring a brilliant new double act: feisty, funny British schoolgirl detectives Hazel Wong (from Hong Kong) and Daisy Wells. The US edition is titled “Murder is Bad Manners”. “Cream Buns and Crime”, a collection of short stories related to this series, was just published in March. For more fun, arts & crafts around the book: https://robin-stevens.co.uk/murder-most-unladylike/

The Mysterious Benedict Society By Trenton Lee Stewart (ISBN 978-0316003957)

Book 1 of a 4-book mystery-adventure series about four children,

each with different talents, who face physical and mental trials in a secret mission where they go undercover at the Learning Institute

for the Very Enlightened. For more fun, arts & crafts around the book: http://www.mysteriousbenedictsociety.com/

The Metropolitans By Carol Goodman (ISBN 978-1101997666)

A unique mix of urban fantasy, spy thriller and historical fiction, this

mystery sets the heroism of King Arthur’s time in New York at the onset of World War II. And it’s up to four brave teens to save the world

from evil.

For those who love “Chasing Vermeer” and “The 39 Clues”

NON-FICTION for readers aged 7+

Lives of the Explorers By Kathleen Krull (ISBN 978-0152059101)

This new volume of this series “Lives of …” biographies written with entertaining style and solid research takes readers through the centuries and across the globe, profiling the men and women whose curiosity and courage have led them to discover our world.

On Your Bike: All you need to know about cycling for kids By Sir Chris Hoy (ISBN 978-1471405259) Sir Chris Hoy, MBE is Great Britian's most successful olympic athlete of all time with six gold medals and one silver. Perfect for those even remotely interested in cycling, this informative and entertaining book will teach children every thing they need to know about the wonderful world of cycling.

It's So Amazing! A book about Eggs, sperms, birth, babies and families By Robie H Harris (ISBN 978-0763668730)

Everything is in the title. This book will answer the many questions most children have about babies, bodies, love, sex, reproduction, and family with fun, accurate, comic-book-style artwork.

Kid Athletes By David Stabler (ISBN 978-1594748028)

Forget the gold medals, the championships, and the undefeated seasons. When all-star athletes were growing up, they had regular-kid

problems just like you. Kid Athletes tells famous athletes stories and more with full-color cartoon illustrations on every page.

Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls By Elena Favilli (ISBN 978-0141986005)

Illustrated by 60 female artists from every corner of the globe, this

diverse book is packed with 100 stories about the life of 100 extraordinary women. Empowering, moving and inspirational, these

are true fairy tales for heroines who definitely don't need rescuing.

Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World By Rachel Ignotofsky (ISBN 978-1526360519)

Women in Science celebrates the achievements of the intrepid women who have paved the way for the next generation of female engineers, biologists, mathematicians, doctors, astronauts, physicists and beyond!

NON-FICTION for readers aged 10+

Guys Read True Stories By Jon Scieszka (ISBN 978-0061963827) Jon Scieszka's “Guys Read” anthology series turns to non-fiction in its fifth volume, True Stories. It features ten stories that are 100% amazing, 100% adventurous, 100% unbelievable – and 100% true.

A Really Short History of Nearly Everything By Bill Bryson (ISBN 978-0385738101)

Tackling everything from the Big Bang to the rise of civilization, Bill Bryson’s inimitable storytelling skill makes the why, how, and, just as importantly, the who of scientific discovery, entertaining and accessible for young readers.

Stormy Seas: Stories of Young Boat Refugees By Mary Beth Leatherdale (ISBN 978-1554518968)

The phenomenon of desperate refugees risking their lives to reach safety is not new. For hundreds of years, people have left behind

family, friends, and all they know in hope of a better life. This book presents five true stories about young people who lived through

the harrowing experience of setting sail in search of asylum.

The New Way Things Work By David Macaulay (ISBN 978-0395938478)

For budding engineers, this updated book goes behind the scenes of

very simple to very complex mechanics and science. It is a comprehensive encyclopedia of technological advancements from

locks and keys and can openers, to hydraulic presses and microchips.

GRAPHIC NOVELS for readers aged 9+

Roller Girl By Victoria Jamieson (ISBN 978-0525429678)

The Newbery Honor Award Winner and New York Times bestseller Roller Girl is a heartwarming graphic novel about a girl who gets hooked on roller derby and devotes herself to the sport while navigating the ups and downs of middle-school friendships.

For those who love Raina Telgemeier’s “Smile”

Avatar: The Last Airbender By Gene Luen Yang and Gurihiru (ISBN 978-1506701301)

This series is the ultimate continuation of the “Avatar” TV show. As always, Yang does a great job balancing the action and jokes with a more substantive storyline.

Dream Jumper – Nightmare Escape By Greg Grunberg and Lucas Turnbloom (ISBN 978-0545826037) Open this book and prepare to enter a fantastic world of dreams. Join Ben as he discovers powers to save his friends from a world of nightmares and more. The artwork is hypnotizing with a story to match.

Fish Girl By David Wiesner & Donna Jo Napoli (ISBN 978-0544815124)

Sparkling with humor and brilliantly visualized, this is a touching

story about a friendship between a mermaid girl and a human girl. It will resonate with every young person facing the challenges and

rewards of growing up. The beautiful illustrations are from multiple Caldecott winner David Wiesner.

The Complete Persepolis By Marjane Satrapi (ISBN 978-0375714832)

Persepolis is the story of Marjane Satrapi's unforgettable childhood

and coming of age within a large and loving family in Tehran during the Islamic Revolution. Wise, funny and heartbreaking, her memoir is

told in powerful black-and-white comic strip images.

Tofu Quilt By Ching Yeung Russell (ISBN 978-1620143544) This novel-length, free-verse poem captures elements of growing up in Hong Kong in the 1960s in rich, vivid snapshots and authentic detail. Readers of all backgrounds will relate to spirited Yeung Ying, her dynamic family, and her courage in the face of life's obstacles.

Stories in VERSE for readers aged 9+

Bull By David Elliott (ISBN 978-0544610606)

An entirely refreshing twist on the indelicate undercurrents of Greek Mythology story of Theseus and the Minotaur, “Bull” will inspire today's readers to rediscover the classics.

Gone Camping By Tamera Will Wissenger and Matthew Cordell (ISBN 978-0544638730) Filled with a variety of poetic forms—from aubade to haiku—as well as exuberant art and helpful writing tips about rhyme and rhythm, this entertaining companion to the award-winning “Gone Fishing” is packed with family humor and adventure, and suitable for readers aged 6+.

Moo By Sharon Creech (ISBN 978-0062415240)

Following one family's momentous move from the city to rural Maine, an unexpected bond develops between twelve-year-old

Reena and one very ornery cow. This heartwarming story, told in a blend of poetry and prose, reveals the bonds that emerge when

we let others into our lives.

For those who love “Love That Dog” and “Hate That Cat”

The Crossover By Kwame Alexander (ISBN 978-0544107717)

Combining beautiful prose with poetry that jumps off the page, this Newbery winning book tells the story of twin 13 year-old basketball players Jordan and Josh Bell. Using basketball as a metaphor for life,

Alexander imparts life lessons to adolescents. Follow up with “Booked”, where soccer takes center stage.