Now that Night is Near
ISBN 9781782506751
Regular price $26.95 Sale price $24.25Astrid Lindgren; Illustrated by Marit Törnqvist; Translated by Polly Lawson
"Come now little one, it's time to go to sleep.
All the little children are tucked up in bed.
Their mamas and their papas too --
Everyone should go to sleep, now that night is near."
It's bedtime, and across the land everyone is settling down to sleep. The cows are lying down in their fields, the rabbits are snug in their burrows, and the birds are resting on their branches. Except someone isn't quite ready to close their eyes just yet...
A curious cat gently wanders through midsummer fields, forests and dusky Swedish landscapes as the sun slowly sets. When will he be ready to sleep?
Written by Astrid Lindgren, the bestselling author of Pippi Longstocking, and accompanied by luminous artwork from award-winning illustrator Marit Törnqvist, this soothing story is perfect for sharing with young children at bedtime.
Recommended for children ages 3 - 7 years old.
Hardcover, 24 pages. 264 x 220 mm.
Floris Books.
Reviews
'A Swedish Goodnight Moon... Young readers who enjoy the soporific spell of Goodnight Moon will appreciate this invitation to sleep, translated from the Swedish. Törnqvist's hazy, mostly earth-toned illustrations appropriately reflect the muted colors of dusk, and her detailed attention to the flora and fauna of the area will give readers plenty to find, name, count, and discuss. The biracial family (the mom has brown skin, and the dad presents White) makes this an inclusive story that counters prevailing stereotypes of rural farm families.
A beautifully illustrated cat's-eye view of a quiet bedtime on a farm.'
-- Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
'This is such a sweet story, showing how night-time gently creeps into a country farm... The illustrations are wonderful. They are soft and cozy and filled with all kinds of little details. Children need to really look closely to see all the animals curled up for bed. This book is perfect for children between the ages of two and five years old. The story is simple, but there are many secrets hidden in the illustrations.'
-- Youth Services Book Review, 5 stars
'A very, very simple, and wonderfully repetitive peaceful bedtime story is brought to life with luminous artwork by Marit Tornqvist. I loved the way the little cat appears on each page.'
-- Kindling
'If your children have major FOMO when going to sleep, this would be an amazing reassuring read that everyone and everything is going to bed too (or so they'll think). I think specifically pre-schoolers would get a lot out of it. Now That Night Is Near follows a cat on a countryside stroll watching all the different animals go to bed until finally it does too. Little ones will love naming the different animals and finding the cat in each scene. [A] sweet read.'
-- Kid Lit is Lit, Instagram
'Now That Night is Near is a picture book story from the creator of Pippi Longstocking with lovely illustrations by award-winning artist Marit Tornqvist. It's a lovely, gentle bedtime story about the world going to sleep when night arrives. From cows and calves sleeping in the fields to rabbits and lambs who lay down to rest, the story reinforces the fact that all creatures need to sleep. Even cats, which are notorious for staying up at night. Delightful, inviting and unique.'
-- Midwest Book Review
'This gentle, soothing story is perfect to lull your little one to sleep!
Written by the acclaimed author of Pippi Longstocking, Astrid Lindgren, this book journeys from a child's bedroom at dusk to fields of sleeping cows and sheep, to the woodlands and forests where wild animals are burrowing in for the night. A wandering cat makes an evening excursion through every spread of the book, before it finally settles down to sleep on the child's bed as night time finally falls. The hand-painted illustrations by Marit Tornqvist are soft and stunning giving the book a tranquil and peaceful ambience! This book definitely deserves a spot in your bedtime reading rotation!'
-- The Blossoming Bibliophiles
'The illustrations are soft and peaceful, perfect for getting a little one off to sleep. There is a beautiful double page spread of a forest with birds roosting on branches, lovely to spot each little pair tucked away!
On each double page you can spot the little cat on their journey and at the end of the story the little cat returns to the child's bed and curls up to sleep. This is a comforting story, one that has the reassuring message that all is well and safe for the night.'
-- Kaleidoscope Magazine
Home of the Wild
ISBN 9781782507130
Regular price $27.50 Sale price $25.50by Louise Greig; Illustrated by Júlia Moscardó
"A house is not a home for wild things;
wild things need to run, and soar, and swim."
In the quiet dawn of the spring forest a boy finds an orphan fawn, hungry and alone. He carefully carries her home, caring for her while she grows strong. The boy and the fawn become inseparable. Together they spend long summer days running through the glen, leaping over the heather, and lying in the dappled sunlight.
But the young deer is a wild thing and too soon she is ready to discover a home of her own.
The boy misses his friend and worries for her when a big storm threatens. Can the boy and the fawn find each other again? Are some bonds stronger than goodbye?
Lyrical and atmospheric, this beautiful picture book by award-winning author Louise Greig and emerging illustrator Júlia Moscardó is an uplifting story of belonging, the enduring connection between humans and nature, and a tender lesson in learning when to let go of those you love.
Recommended for children ages 4 - 7 years old.
Hardcover, 32 pages. 250 x 270 mm.
Floris books.
Hello Animals, How Do You Sleep?
ISBN 9781782505518
Regular price $13.50 Sale price $12.15By Loes Botman
This beautiful board book introduces young children to a whole host of animals, including a squirrel, a fox, a bear, and a rabbit, and shows how they sleep.
Loes Botman's warm and detailed illustrations bring the different animals alive on the page, and the simple words and concepts make this a perfect bedtime book for young children.
Recommended for 1 - 3 years old.
Board book, 12 pages. Beautiful colour illustrations. 180 x 153 mm.
Floris Books, Jan 2019.
About the Author
Loes Botman is an illustrator in the Netherlands. She has been widely exhibited and runs workshops. She is also the illustrator of Hello Animals, What Makes You Special?, Hello Animals, Where Do You Live?, Hello Bugs, What Do You Do?, Hello Farm, How Do You Do?, and Hello Birds, What Do You Say?
Reviews
'With detailed artwork in warm, cosy colours, and simple descriptive language, this is a lovely book to read with young children to learn more about a range of animals and extend a child's vocabulary.'
-- Juno
'The book is an ideal size for small hands to grasp and take hold of, and at the same time it is sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear it is certain to be given from younger readers. There are minimal words and the animals are not named so the book presents a great opportunity for adult and child to work together in order to identify and explore each creature and what they are doing.'
-- Armadillo
'Botman's latest nature-themed work does double duty, offering a few facts to the youngest of readers while gently lulling them to sleep. Children learn about the nocturnal habits of various creatures -- cows and sheep bed down in the hay, while rabbits and bears sleep in dens (the contrast between the hulking bear and the tiny bunny is delightful). Set against vivid, detailed backgrounds, these sumptuous illustrations will have eyelids drooping in no time.'
-- School Library Journal
'Luminous snoozy images depict the animals peacefully curled up in their woodland, farm, and home environments. Each animal is surrounded with warm, halo-like colors and visual textures that echo their environments, from barnyard hay to warm, deep dens, bringing gentle artistry to the pages and an invitation for readers, too, to bed down. How do you sleep?'
-- Publishers Weekly
'By keeping the text spare, Botman allows readers to focus on the illustrations, which are quite lovely. They appear to have been done with pastel crayons or some other smudgy medium, as they have a comforting, mottled look. A charming and very simple introduction to animals and their sleeping habits for babies and toddlers.'
-- Kirkus Reviews
'Botman's gorgeous detailed artwork brings the animals vividly to life making this an ideal book for a pre-school read at bedtime.'
-- Outside In World
'Beautiful... Unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, and community library children's board book collections.'
-- Midwest Book Review
'[A] short but sweet little book that would be perfect for bed or rest time.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
Bedtime Storytelling
ISBN 9780863157363
Regular price $30.50 Sale price $29.95Become Your Child's Storyteller
by Beatrys Lockie
Anyone can master the art of storytelling with the right advice and plenty of practice!
Storytelling allows you to lift a story from the page and bring it to life. Without a book you're free -- to personalise stories, make gestures, use props or give a hug or a tickle! But most importantly you have eye contact -- creating a greater connection between you and your child and allowing you to guage their reactions -- are they excited? Frightened? Engaged?
This inspiring collection of tales, suitable for children aged from about 3 - 7 years old, includes advice on how to become a confident storyteller.
Collected by age interest, each of the classic stories are easy to memorise, adapt and enhance using simple storytelling know-how. You’ll find many are old favourites that are regularly told in kindergartens, nurseries and schools -- tales about magical creatures and exotic animals as well as stories from everyday life.
Stories include: The Little Jug, The Mitten (Any Room for Me?), The Tomten, The Star Child, How the Zebra Got its Stripes, King Grizzly Beard and Hans in Luck.
Table of Contents
Telling Stories to Children
Why tell stories?
Getting started
Creating a mood
Angels and fairies
Animal stories
Stories for special purposes
Stories for Children Aged Three to Four
The Little Jug
The Mitten
The Pearl-grey Cockerel
The Tomten
The Easter Hare
The Star Child
The Little Star's Search
Stories for Children Aged Five to Six
A Farm Story
How the Snowdrop Got its Colour
Lassie
Hendrika's Adventure
Miaula and the Twins
Giant Grummer’s Christmas
Ameliaranne and the Green Umbrella
Joanna and the Jumble Sale
Bad Mousie
Susannah's Bears
The Seven Ravens
The Lion and the Mouse
The Story of Beth
Erwin the Elf
Borka
Granny Glittens and her Amazing Mittens
Stories for Children Aged Six to Seven
King of the Birds
How the Zebra Got its Stripes
How the Elephant Got its Trunk
The Cat Who Walked Alone
Long-nose the Dwarf
The Square Box
Long-legs
A Tale of Two Children
King Grizzly Beard
Hans in Luck
The Harp with Five Strings
The Story of Ten Fingers
The Twelve Months
The Five Goats
A Tale of Nine Children
The Dog with Two Masters
A Michaelmas Story
Three's Company
Reviews:
'Considering the difference between telling and reading a story, [Felce] offers practical advice on the use of body language and presentation skills.'
--Watkins Mind Body and Spirit review, Winter 2013
'Bedtime Storytelling is a wonderful collection of classic tales guaranteed to enchant young book lovers. And don't worry if you think you can't tell stories very well, as author Beatrys Lockie gives you countless tips on making storytelling a pleasure for both reader and listener! We say… a wonderful collection of stories for everyone to enjoy.'
-- Creative Steps, May/June 2010
About the Author:
Beatrys Lockie was born in Holland in 1927 and began to tell stories at an early age to anyone young or old who would listen. She moved to Scotland and was a class teacher at the Edinburgh Rudolf Steiner School in which stories form an integral part of teaching in the early years. After retirement she founded and ran a succession of kindergartens. She now lives with her husband in the Scottish Borders.
Naptime
ISBN 9781575423005
Regular price $14.95 Sale price $12.50by Elizabeth Verdick; illustrated by Marieka Heinlen
Naps are just a little break—but when it’s naptime, many toddlers have trouble settling into sleep. This calming, encouraging book helps young children quiet down so they can get the rest they need. Eyes are closed, lights are dimmed . . . and (yawn, s-t-r-e-t-c-h) before little ones know it, it’s time to wake up. Cozy illustrations enhance the text.
An award-winning author-illustrator team offers a fresh look at the times and transitions all toddlers face daily, giving young children the tools to handle routines with confidence and cooperation.
Board book, 24 pages. 7 x 7".
Free Spirit Publishing.
Pip the Gnome's Bedtime
ISBN 9781782504139
Regular price $14.95By Admar Kwant
Pip the gnome sits with his friends mouse, rabbit and squirrel to watch the sunset.
One by one, Pip's friends go to sleep: the mouse in her bed under a tree root, the rabbit in her burrow underground, the squirrel in his cosy hole high in a tree.
Pip is sleepy too. "Sleep well, Pip."
Perfect for bedtime, the soft, colourful illustrations and simple, rhythmic words of this beautiful board book prepare very young children for a peaceful night's sleep.
Recommended for 1 - 3 years old.
Board book, 12 pages. Beautiful colour illustrations. 180 x 153 mm.
Floris Books, Sep 2017.
About the Author
Admar Kwant lives with her husband and two children in the Netherlands, by the edge of a lake. Her family life and love of nature inspire her drawing and painting. She regularly creates illustrations for Educare, a Dutch parenting magazine. She is the author and illustrator of Pip the Gnome and Pip the Gnome and the Christmas Tree, gentle board books for young children.
Reviews
'This lovely little board book is perfect for helping young children to settle into a bedtime, or nap time, routine... As each animal goes to bed, the background in the pictures moves through the colours of the sunset, evening and night time, which, coupled with the text and its use of such sleepy words as cosy, nestle, curls up, yawns, asleep, and more, all help to calm children and help them relax into sleep.'
-- Early Years Educator Magazine
Praise for Pip the Gnome and the Christmas Tree:
'Kwant's art is the star of this simple story. Rendered in soft coloured pencil or oil pastels, the scenes beautifully evoke the playful joy of decorating a tree. Pip is especially endearing, with his apple-doll face, Santa-red hat, and apple-green suit.'
-- Kirkus Book Reviews (US)
'Colourful illustrations and simple words in this utterly charming story written and illustrated by Admar Kwant introduce babies and toddlers to the joy of preparing for Christmas. Soft, wintery colors wonderfully illuminate the day from morning to dusk, ending with the candle-lit tree.'
-- Midwest Book Review (US)
cuddle cards
MER 95400111
Regular price $25.00 Sale price $14.00A personal favourite at Nest!
The cuddle journal is wonderful for families to read aloud, listen to the answers without comment if you like. A great oral journalling experience for little ones and people of all ages. To think, to feel, and to discover together. Judgement does not feel present in the questions. All of the emotions are given sunlight and air in this way.
Purchase just the journal, just the cards, or both together. In our home, our littlest one liked to play with the cards, while we read the questions aloud. Whomever liked could comment aloud, with little good, good pauses in between. Rare moments of calm and quiet overtook our household with this thoughtful and special journal.
Any Room for Me?
ISBN 9781782506607
Regular price $25.95 Sale price $24.50One cold winter morning, a woodcutter drops his mitten in the forest. What a perfect cosy house for a little mouse!
But the forest is home to lots of creatures. The frog, the hare, the fox and the boar want to share too, but then the biggest animal of all comes along...
Soft illustrations, gentle, rhythmic language and a heart-warming message about sharing make this the perfect book to read aloud on a winter evening. A classic story from the creator of The Little Christmas Tree and The Pancake who Ran Away.
Recommended for Ages 3-6 years old.
Hardcover, 24 pages. 254 x 210 mm. Full colour illustrations.
Floris Books, 2020.
About the Author:
Loek Koopmans was born in the Netherlands in 1943 and studied at the Academy of Art and Design in Arnhem. He illustrates picture books, writes stories and is a painter, and in 1993 and 1996 he won the Dutch Award for best illustrated book. He is the author and illustrator of the children's books Any Room For Me?, The Pancake That Ran Away and Frog, Bee and Snail Look for Snow, and The Little Christmas Tree (all Floris Books).
Journey
ISBN 9780763660536
Regular price $24.99by Aaron Becker
A 2014 Caldecott Honor Book
Follow a girl on an elaborate flight of fancy in a wondrously illustrated, wordless picture book about self-determination — and unexpected friendship.
A lonely girl draws a magic door on her bedroom wall and through it escapes into a world where wonder, adventure, and danger abound. Red marker in hand, she creates a boat, a balloon, and a flying carpet that carry her on a spectacular journey toward an uncertain destiny. When she is captured by a sinister emperor, only an act of tremendous courage and kindness can set her free. Can it also lead her home and to her heart’s desire? With supple line, luminous color, and nimble flights of fancy, author-illustrator Aaron Becker launches an ordinary child on an extraordinary journey toward her greatest and most exciting adventure of all.
“An imaginative adventure story whose elaborate illustrations inspire wonder, careful examination and multiple reads.”
— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Wonder mixes with longing as the myriad possibilities offered by Becker’s stunning settings dwarf what actually happens in the story. Readers will be both dazzled and spurred on imagined travels of their own.”
— Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)
“The strong visual narrative makes this an appealing choice for a wide range of ages. By the turn of the last page, children will immediately begin imagining the next adventure.”
— School Library Journal (starred review)
“Reverberate(s) with the power of Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are”
— Booklist (starred review)
“Though Becker has plenty of experience as an artist for films, “Journey” is his first book, and it’s a masterwork.”
— New York Times Book Review
Hardcover. 40 pages.
Candlewick Press.
Nest Notes: Recommended for children up to 8 years of age to cozy up with on their own, although this book is a trip for people of all ages. This is a three-book series: Journey, Quest, and Return; although each book could also be a standalone book on its own.
A Favourite Collection of Grimm's Fairy Tales
ISBN 9781782502012
Regular price $25.95 Sale price $24.95Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and many more classic stories
by Jacob & Wilhelm Grimm; Illustrated by Anastasiya Archipova
This beautiful collection of thirteen classic Brothers Grimm fairy tales includes Cinderella; Rumpelstiltskin; Puss in Boots; Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs; Rapunzel; The Town Musicians of Bremen; Little Red Riding Hood; Hansel and Gretel; Sleeping Beauty; and Snow White and Rose Red.
The fairy tales include stories of princesses and dwarfs, wicked queens and gentle bears have delighted children and adults alike for two centuries. Their unique magic and wonder make them inspiring reading for children everywhere, and this illustrated gift edition is especially designed for little hands.
Each story is accompanied by charming illustrations by Anastasiya Archipova, illustrator of dozens of children's books.
Table of Contents
Cinderella
Rumpelstiltskin
Puss in Boots
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Rapunzel
The Golden Goose
The Princess and the Frog
The Town Musicians of Bremen
Little Red Riding Hood
Mother Holle
Hansel and Gretel
Sleeping Beauty
Snow White and Rose Red
Recommended for children 5-8 years old.
- Hardcover, with colour illustrations. 176 pages. 225 x 180 mm.
- Floris Books.
Printed in Poland.
Reviews
'This is a glorious celebration of perennially popular stories.'
-- Armadillo
'A selection of all-time favourites. Archipova's illustrations are soft yet vibrant. The layout is ideal for sharing and reading aloud.'
-- Folk & Fairy Tales: A Book Guide, Booktrust (praise for previous edition)
About the Authors
The Brothers Grimm, Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, were German professors whose collections of folk tales and fairy tales have been loved for generations.
Anastasiya Archipova is an illustrator who lives in Moscow. She has illustrated many children's books, including companion volume, An Illustrated Treasury of Hans Christian Andersen's Fairy Tales.
Museum Mystery Squad and the Case of the Hidden Hieroglyphics (Book II in the Series)
ISBN 9781782503620
Regular price $10.50by Mike Nicholson; illustrated by Mike Phillips.
"Deduction and slick detective work save the day." ~ Kirkus Reviews
Hieroglyphics: hard to spell and even harder to decode!
When a strange message is found hidden on the casket of Pharaoh Raneb, the Museum Mystery Squad (techie-genius Nabster, mile-a-minute Kennedy, and sharp-eyed Laurie) must crack a code nobody's seen since ancient Egyptian times.
The Squad are not the only ones working on the mystery: they meet Egyptian expert Professor Peter Gyptex, and the very odd Vera Damclot, a fan of mummified cats. Can the Squad reveal the mummy's secret before it unravels?
Young readers will love the riddles, red herrings and big reveals jam-packed into this fun-filled series of mystery stories by Mike Nicholson. The enjoyable extras like wacky facts and activities, as well as zany illustrations by Mike Phillips, will keep amateur detectives entertained for hours.
Recommended by the publisher for ages 7-9 yrs. Nest Notes: We've found our children at almost 5 and almost 7 years old were hooked on the whole series, so a younger child could follow along with an older sibling certainly. Also great for an early chapter book for a child to read.
Softcover, 128 pages.
Floris Books.
About the Author:
Mike Nicholson won the Kelpies Prize for new Scottish children's fiction in 2005. He is the author of many humorous children's books including the Museum Mystery Squad series (for young readers) and the Thistle Streetpicture books. Mike lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Mike Phillips is the illustrator of many children's books including the Horrible Histories: Gruesome Guides and the Horrible Geography series.
Museum Mystery Squad and the Case of the Curious Coins (Book III in the Series)
ISBN 9781782503637
Regular price $10.50by Mike Nicholson; illustrated by Mike Phillips.
Has someone been taking money from the museum's donations at night? Why are there coins all over the floor?
In the Case of the Curious Coins the Squad enlists the help of a few metallic friends -- robots from a new futuristic exhibition. These super-cool robots might be able to build furniture, cook up a feast and send messages, but can they spy on a thief?
Some people think that museums are boring places full of glass cases, dust and stuff no one cares about: wrong! In a hidden headquarters below the exhibits there's a gang ready to handle dangerous, spooky or just plain weird problems: the Museum Mystery Squad.
Techie-genius Nabster, mile-a-minute Kennedy and sharp-eyed Laurie (along with Colin the hamster!) tackle the surprising conundrums happening at the museum. From pre-historic creatures that move and secret Egyptian codes to missing treasure and strange messages from the past, there's no brain-twisting, totally improbable puzzle the Squad can't solve.
Young readers will love the riddles, red herrings and big reveals jam-packed into this fun-filled series of mystery stories by Mike Nicholson. The enjoyable extras like wacky facts and activities, as well as zany illustrations by Mike Phillips, will keep amateur detectives entertained for hours.
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 128 pages. 197 x 158 mm. With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books.
About the Author
Mike Nicholson won the Kelpies Prize for new Scottish children's fiction in 2005. He is the author of many humorous children's books including the Museum Mystery Squad series (for young readers) and the Thistle Streetpicture books. Mike lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Mike Phillips is the illustrator of many children's books including the Horrible Histories: Gruesome Guides and the Horrible Geography series.
Reviews
'... there is a clear desire to celebrate museums as spaces of imagination and learning. There is a very interesting interplay between text and image in the book, as the story is interposed by numerous illustrations, graphs and quizzes that visually make the book very visually stimulating.'
-- Armadillo
'I just finished reading both books -- they are so much fun!'
-- Ms Kirke Kook, Manager and Curator, Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum
'All of the books in this series are fast-moving, filled with interesting facts that should spur readers on to their own explorations, well-written, fun and wonderfully illustrated with black and white drawings by Mike Phillips.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
'Lots of illustrations and activities like How to Build Your Own Robot make this a fun enjoyable addition to the series.'
-- Youth Services Book Review (Nov 2017)
'There is so much to love about this book. A quick shout out for those with dyslexic children the font and spacing is good as is the creamy pages... A great story and characters, lots of hands on interaction/involvement, fun illustrations, terrible jokes and a great read.'
-- Bookworm (indie bookshop, Selkirk)
'Due to dyslexia ... picking up a book is something that Jonah considers to be hard work. That is until ... he read 'Mammoth'. We had begun to read it together before he went to sleep but he couldn't wait for the story to end and so continued to read on his own!... Within a few nights the book was finished and Jonah asked if we could buy the other book in the series. Completing a book on his own was a real confident boost to Jonah and he genuinely found the whole experience to be great fun.'
-- Parent of Jonah, age 9 years
'My 7yr old loves to read... She loved the museum mysteries... Her imagination has been gripped [...] All in these books have become a loved part of Anna's book shelves. Perfect for her age group. A page turner she can enjoy on her own with some words and phrases she'd not come across before to challenge her.'
-- Parent of Anna, age 7 years
'Grace absolutely loved them and devoured each one [Books 1 and 2] in a day. The characters and the plot really captured her imagination and she really enjoyed the way that facts were interspersed throughout (she loves a good fact!) The games and quizzes at the back were a big hit too.'
-- Parent of Grace, age 8 years
'Nicholson slips in fact boxes and a miniquiz as well as some red herrings to confuse matters. Phillips adds coded messages, screen shots, and diary pages to cartoon views of the squad in action... deduction and slick detective work save the day.'
-- Kirkus (US)
Museum Mystery Squad and the Case of the Roman Riddle (Book IV in the Series)
ISBN 9781782503644
Regular price $10.50by Mike Nicholson; illustrated by Mike Phillips.
Some people think that museums are boring places full of glass cases, dust and stuff no one cares about: wrong! In a hidden headquarters below the exhibits there's a gang ready to handle dangerous, spooky or just plain weird problems: the Museum Mystery Squad.
Techie-genius Nabster, mile-a-minute Kennedy and sharp-eyed Laurie (along with Colin the hamster!) tackle the surprising conundrums happening at the museum. From pre-historic creatures that move and secret Egyptian codes to missing treasure and strange messages from the past, there's no brain-twisting, totally improbable puzzle the Squad can't solve.
---------------
Strange lights, eerie sounds -- something spooky is happening at the museum. The ghostly goings-on centre on a dented Roman helmet. Could it be haunted? The Squad aren't convinced but what better place is there for a ghost to hide than in a museum full of seriously old and rather dead things?
--------------------
In the Case of the Roman Riddle, the Squad investigate ancient treasure, mystery mosaics and suspicious centurions to try to solve their latest mystery.
Young readers will love the riddles, red herrings and big reveals jam-packed into this fun-filled series of mystery stories by Mike Nicholson. The enjoyable extras like wacky facts and activities, as well as zany illustrations by Mike Phillips, will keep amateur detectives entertained for hours.
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 128 pages. 197 x 158 mm. With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books, 2018.
About the Author
Mike Nicholson won the Kelpies Prize for new Scottish children's fiction in 2005. He is the author of many humorous children's books including the Museum Mystery Squad series (for young readers) and the Thistle Streetpicture books. Mike lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Mike Phillips is the illustrator of many children's books including the Horrible Histories: Gruesome Guides and the Horrible Geography series.
Reviews
'Mike Nicholson's book focuses on a space that does not receive much attention in children's literature, and there is a clear desire to celebrate museums as spaces of imagination and learning. There is a very interesting interplay between text and image in the book, as the story is interposed by numerous illustrations, graphs and quizzes that visually make the book very visually stimulating.'
-- Armadillo
'I just finished reading both books -- they are so much fun!'
-- Ms Kirke Kook, Manager and Curator, Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum
'All of the books in this series are fast-moving, filled with interesting facts that should spur readers on to their own explorations, well-written, fun and wonderfully illustrated with black and white drawings by Mike Phillips.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
'There is so much to love about this book. A quick shout out for those with dyslexic children the font and spacing is good as is the creamy pages. I realise there are many things to look at but it has had the thumbs up from a few customers who need to look at this before a purchase. [...] A great story and characters, lots of hands on interaction/involvement, fun illustrations, terrible jokes and a great read whether you are sharing your story-time or you are an independent reader.'
-- Bookworm (indie bookshop, Selkirk)
'It made me laugh and I really enjoyed the facts and I think the second one sounds like it will be really good.'
-- Mairin, age 7 years
'For Jonah, reading is not something that fills him with enthusiasm. Due to dyslexia and the complications it can bring to simply read a text, picking up a book is something that Jonah considers to be hard work. That is until with great enthusiasm he read 'Mammoth'. We had begun to read it together before he went to sleep but he couldn't wait for the story to end and so continued to read on his own! He loved the subject matter - mammoths are a big hit (!) and he really enjoyed the games and the quizzes. Within a few nights the book was finished and Jonah asked if we could buy the other book in the series. Completing a book on his own was a real confident boost to Jonah and he genuinely found the whole experience to be great fun. As a parent this was a joy to see! Thank you Mike for your brilliant books and your excellent storytelling. You captured the mind and imagination of a nine year old boy who never would have thought stepping into a book could be so much fun!'
-- Parent of Jonah, age 9 years
'My 7yr old loves to read. [...] She loved the museum mysteries which took her about a week to read each one. Her imagination has been gripped [...] All in these books have become a loved part of Anna's book shelves. Perfect for her age group. A page turner she can enjoy on her own with some words and phrases she'd not come across before to challenge her.'
-- Parent of Anna, age 7 years
'Grace absolutely loved them and devoured each one [both Museum Mystery Squad books] in a day. The characters and the plot really captured her imagination and she really enjoyed the way that facts were interspersed throughout (she loves a good fact!) The games and quizzes at the back were a big hit too -- she really enjoyed doing the "which character are you" quiz. I can always tell how much Grace genuinely enjoys a book by how long she talks about it afterwards -- the Museum Mystery Squad books were a good couple of weeks and would have been more if numbers 3 and 4 had been available. [...] Grace is very much looking forward to the next two books in the series.'
-- Parent of Grace, age 8 years
'Nicholson slips in fact boxes and a miniquiz as well as some red herrings to confuse matters. Phillips adds coded messages, screen shots, and diary pages to cartoon views of the squad in action. A final word-search puzzle (with answers) serves as both brain teaser and review. [...] The historical information is a bit flimsy, but deduction and slick detective work save the day.'
-- Kirkus
Museum Mystery Squad and the Case of the Vanishing Viking (Book V in the Series)
ISBN 9781782503651
Regular price $10.50by Mike Nicholson; illustrated by Mike Phillips.
Some people think that museums are boring places full of glass cases, dust and stuff no one cares about: wrong! In a hidden headquarters below the exhibits there's a gang ready to handle dangerous, spooky or just plain weird problems: the Museum Mystery Squad.
Techie-genius Nabster, mile-a-minute Kennedy and sharp-eyed Laurie (along with Colin the hamster!) tackle the surprising conundrums happening at the museum. From pre-historic creatures that move and secret Egyptian codes to missing treasure and strange messages from the past, there's no brain-twisting, totally improbable puzzle the Squad can't solve.
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The discovery of new Viking treasure brings the museum its biggest exhibit yet -- a giant longboat. With such a huge attraction on show there's plenty of room to hide a secret, or two.
In the Case of the Vanishing Viking, the Squad investigate legendary longboats, rare runes and hidden hoards to try to solve their latest mystery.
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Young readers will love the riddles, red herrings and big reveals jam-packed into this fun-filled series of mystery stories by Mike Nicholson. The enjoyable extras like wacky facts and activities, as well as zany illustrations by Mike Phillips, will keep amateur detectives entertained for hours.
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 128 pages. 197 x 158 mm. With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books, 2018.
About the Author
Mike Nicholson won the Kelpies Prize for new Scottish children's fiction in 2005. He is the author of many humorous children's books including the Museum Mystery Squad series (for young readers) and the Thistle Streetpicture books. Mike lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Mike Phillips is the illustrator of many children's books including the Horrible Histories: Gruesome Guides and the Horrible Geography series.
Reviews
Praise for the Museum Mystery Squad series:
'Nicholson slips in fact boxes and a miniquiz as well as some red herrings to confuse matters. Phillips adds coded messages, screen shots, and diary pages to cartoon views of the squad in action... deduction and slick detective work save the day.'
-- Kirkus Reviews
'All of the books in this series are fast-moving, filled with interesting facts that should spur readers on to their own explorations, well-written, fun and wonderfully illustrated with black and white drawings by Mike Phillips.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
'... there is a clear desire to celebrate museums as spaces of imagination and learning. There is a very interesting interplay between text and image in the book, as the story is interposed by numerous illustrations, graphs and quizzes that visually make the book very visually stimulating.'
-- Armadillo
The Town Musicians of Bremen
ISBN 9781782507925
Regular price $28.50By Gerda Muller
Four unlikely animal companions set off on an adventure to become musicians in the town of Bremen.
When night falls and they're cold and hungry, the friends find a cabin in the forest where they could rest and eat -- if it wasn't home to a band of robbers! Can the animals work together, and use their musical voices to chase the robbers away?
Children will love braying along with the donkey, barking with the dog, purring with the cat and crowing with the rooster as the animals eventually find a new home.
Gerda Muller's beautiful detailed illustrations bring this classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale of animal friends to life.
Recommended for ages 4 - 7 years.
Hardcover, 32 pages. 11.62 x 11 inches.
Floris Books, 2022.
Reviews
'In this new retelling from Floris Books, Gerda Muller's illustrations are extremely attractive. The endpapers are gorgeous. The book is a very nice size.'
--Mary Medlicott, SLA
Rapunzel
ISBN 9781782503828
Regular price $27.50 Sale price $26.95by Hans Christian Andersen; Illustrated by Maja Dusíková
'Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair!'
Trapped at the top of a tall tower, every day Rapunzel throws down her long, long golden hair for her captor, the enchantress, to climb. Until one day the King's son discovers Rapunzel and they fall in love.
The prince and Rapunzel devise a plan to escape -- but the enchantress discovers their scheme and chops off Rapunzel's hair. Will the couple be parted forever?
This classic fairy tale is wonderfully brought to life with soft, colourful illustrations by popular illustrator Maja Dusíková.
Hardcover, 32 pages with colour illustrations. 294 x 219 mm.
Floris Books, 2017.
Reviews
'Maja Dusikova's Rapunzel retells a classic fairy tale and adds lovely, soft-edged drawings [...] Good reading skills or parental assistance will lend to the beautiful story of a braided beauty with a beautiful voice and a brave prince who breaks her isolation.'
-- Midwest Book Review
'This is a good story with beautiful pictures. I think everyone should read it.'
-- Shreya (aged 6), Kids' Book Buzz
On Dusíková’s edition of The Princess and the Pea:
'Dusikova's pictures are full of soft edges and soft colours, with pretty architectual details and an assortment of castle denizens, including a pair of cats and a toddler in a jester's motley. A rendering to bring a smile or possibly a giggle.'
-- Kirkus Review (USA)
About the Author
Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875) was a Danish author and writer of children's fairy tales, such as The Little Mermaid, Thumbelina and The Ugly Duckling, which have become much-loved classics around the world.
Maja Dusíková was born in Slovakia in 1946. She has illustrated over forty books for children. She lives with her family in Florence, Italy.
The Enchanted Nightingale
ISBN 9781782504368
Regular price $27.50The Classic Grimm's Tale of Jorinda and Joringel
by Bernadette Watts and Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm
Jorinda and Joringel are happily walking through the forest, but they stray too close to a witch's castle, and fall under her spells.
Jorinda is transformed into a nightingale and imprisoned in the castle in a golden bird cage. Joringel is powerless to rescue his true love, until one night he dreams of a magical flower that can overpower the witch's enchantments. Can he find the flower and free Jorinda?
Love and bravery triumph over evil in this classic Brothers Grimm tale. The beautiful forest and forbidding castle are compellingly illustrated by Bernadette Watts, perfectly capturing the magic and charm of the tale.
Recommended for 4 to 7 years.
Hardcover, 32 pages with full colour illustrations. 294 x 219 mm.
Floris Books, 2017.
Reviews
'This is a beautiful book. I really enjoy Bernadette Watts' illustrations: they are detailed but soft, and the colours express such emotion. [...] A gorgeous book of 'happy ever after'.
-- Juno
'Berandette Watts has once again brough the story to life with her magical illustrations. The story is written in a simple beautiful way, showing how love triumphs over evil.'
-- Kindling
'The colorful textured illustrations are a beautiful complement to the classic tale... Readers who enjoy fairy tales will enjoy this lesser known story.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
About the Author
Bernadette Watts was born in Northampton, England, in 1942. She has illustrated over 120 picture books for children, including many traditional tales, in a career spanning several decades. She won the prestigious Japanese Owl Prize for illustration in 1986. She lives in Kent, England.
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, the 'Brothers Grimm', were German professors whose collections of folk tales and fairy tales have been loved for generations.
The Big Bottom Hunt
ISBN 9780863157455
Regular price $15.65By Lari Don; Illustrated by Gabby Grant
Sandy and Ella are out playing on the beach one day when they spot something sparkling by the jaggy rocks. They run over to see what it is, and find a telescope that someone has left behind. But how will they find the owner?
Then they see a funny shape in the sand -- and realise it's a bottom print! They run back home for their art kit and trace the print. Then the big bottom hunt begins, as they ask each villager in turn, 'Is this your bottom?'
A delightful and very funny story from Edinburgh writer and storyteller Lari Don, illustrated with great charm by up-and-coming illustrator Gabby Grant.
Recommended for ages 3-6 years.
Softcover, 32 pages, with colour illustrations. 254 x 210 mm.
Floris Books.
Reviews
'Children love being able to say "bottom" without being naughty or cheeky and the charming illustrations are also great fun... It is great fun and just a little bit "cheeky!"'
-- Suse Coon, Lothian Life
'Excellent bedtime or early reader. Beautifully told and illustrated, (and children really enjoy the fact 'bottoms' are mentioned many times!)'
-- Armadillo
'The Big Bottom Hunt by Lari Don is a delight. There will be giggles of glee as Sandy and Ella set off on their quest to discover whose bottom has left an imprint in the sand!'
-- EYE (Early Years Educator) Magazine
'Playing detectives is great fun, and the repetition of the word bottom - plus delightfully realistic pictures - provides even more merriment.
-- Julia Jarman, Carousel, Spring 2011
Dragon Stoorworm
ISBN 9781782501176
Regular price $18.50 Sale price $17.95By Theresa Breslin; Illustrated by Matthew Land
The Dragon Stoorworm was the very first, very worst dragon that ever lived. It was ginormous: almost as big as the whole of Scotland!
The King of Scotland called for warriors to defeat the terrible dragon and save his daughter, the Princess Gemdelovely, from being eaten. But none who faced the dragon ever returned, until...
Gentle Assipattle is no warrior, but maybe together, he and Princess Gemdelovely can free Scotland from the wrath of the Dragon Stoorworm.
A lively retelling of the traditional Scottish folk tale of the Dragon Stoorworm (or Mester Stoor Worm), which explains the origins of Scotland's many islands, adapted for a young audience. Award-winning author Theresa Breslin's story unfolds with wry humour while Matthew Land's magical illustrations capture the fairy-tale beauty of Scotland.
The Dragon Stoorworm is one of the first titles released in the new Picture Kelpies: Traditional Scottish Tales range of picture books that bring classic Scottish folk and fairy tales to life for young children.
Recommended for ages 4-7 yrs.
Softcover, 24 pages with full colour illustrations. 294 x 219 mm.
Published September, 2014 by Floris Books.
Reviews:
'A stunning new range of children's books landed on our doorstep just before we disappeared on holiday for two weeks. So we spirited them away with us and have been enthralled by them... We're not here to tell you the ending of this fantastic tale, but to let you discover this wonderful range for yourself. Picture Kelpies combine brilliant traditional tales with utterly stunning artwork (it's amazing to think that this is Matthew Land's first picture book - the man has a bright future ahead of him!)'
-- ReadItDaddy
'Beautiful books which are a great introduction to the folklore genre... Wonderful stories which will give children a real sense of Scottish culture.'
-- Creative Steps
Thorfinn the Nicest Viking & the Gruesome Games (Book 2 in the Series)
ISBN 9781782501596
Regular price $13.95 Sale price $13.00by David MacPhail; Illustrated by Richard Morgan
- Thorfinn, The Nicest Viking is a funny and fearsome new series for young readers who love Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!
- David Macphail takes readers on a hilarious journey filled with gruesome Viking heroes, adventurous battles — and a polite young Viking who would rather be at home with a mug of pinecone tea!
- Each page is illustrated with hilarious sketches by Richard Morgan
Thorfinn is a nice, polite young Viking. How will he save his village against the ruthless competitors at the Scottish Gruesome Games?
Prepare yourself for the wrath of the Norsemen! That is, if you don't mind and it's not too inconvenient...
Everyone knows Vikings are ruthless barbarians whose idea of a good time involves pillaging, plundering and feasting. But Thorfinn is no ordinary Viking! He is always polite and happily offers to wash the dirty dishes. Too bad his dad is Harald the Skull-Splitter, Village Chief and the roughest and toughest Viking of them all.
Harald, Thorfinn and the other Vikings are preparing to compete in the annual Gruesome Games, held on the Scottish island of Uraig. It falls to Thorfinn to save their village, but in a competition where belching, axe-throwing, pie-clobbering and goat-throwing are great point scorers, what help will a terribly nice Viking with a talent for baking be?
Thorfinn the Nicest Viking is a funny, illustrated, action-packed new series for young readers which bridges the gap between Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 136 pages. 197 x 158 mm. With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books, 2015.
About the Author
David MacPhail left home at eighteen to travel the world and have adventures. After working as a chicken wrangler, a ghost-tour guide and a waiter on a tropical island, he now has the sensible job of writing about yetis and Vikings. At home in Perthshire, Scotland, he exists on a diet of cream buns and zombie movies. David is also the author of Yeti on the Loose and the Thorfinn the Nicest Viking series.
Richard Morgan was born and raised by goblins on the Yorkshire moors. He has painted backgrounds for Disney TV and now writes and illustrates children's books. He lives in Cambridge, England, and has a family of goblins of his own.
Reviews
'... a cute story filled with funny illustrations.'
-- Goodreads, Wayne McCoy
'A must read.'
-- Goodreads, Jossie Solheim
'this book should be in elementary school libraries as well as classroom libraries.'
-- Goodreads, Carla Johnson-Hicks
'this little novel is a perfect barrel of laughs for boys and girls alike.'
-- Suffolk Libraries
'Fabulously funny Viking fiction for children! This book is bound to appeal to audiences of the much loved 'How to Train Your Dragon' series'
-- Springwell Park Primary School
'Readers will recognize the humorous and distinctive illustrations of Richard Morgan and enjoy the supplemental activities in the back of the book.'
-- Einin Weebly
'The chapter book is filled with cute illustrations and silly humor that made my 7 year old laugh out loud, all while teaching lessons about sportsmanship and being true to yourself.'
-- Easily Entertained Blog
'An easy, fun read that would work well as a read aloud.'
-- Education Queensland
'a good story, interesting heroes, quality writing, some obvious laughs, some understated chuckles, and a very engaging and satisfying reading experience.'
-- Amazon Pop Bop/Goodreads
Thorfinn the Nicest Viking & the Rotten Scots (Book 3 in the Series)
ISBN 9781782502296
Regular price $13.50 Sale price $12.50by David MacPhail; Illustrated by Richard Morgan
- Thorfinn, The Nicest Viking is a funny and fearsome new series for young readers who love Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!
- David MacPhail takes readersers on a journey filled with gruesome Viking heroes, adventurous battles -- and a polite young Viking who would rather be at home with a mug of pinecone tea!
- Each page is illustrated with hilarious sketches by Richard Morgan, as well as cut-out-and-keep collectable character cards, games and fun facts
Thorfinn is a nice, polite young Viking. How will he cope being imprisoned by Scottish chieftain Ranald MacRanald of clan MacRanald?
Prepare yourself for the wrath of the Norsemen! That is, if you don't mind and it's not too inconvenient...
Everyone knows Vikings are ruthless barbarians whose idea of a good time involves pillaging, plundering and feasting. But Thorfinn is no ordinary Viking! He is always polite and happily offers to wash the dirty dishes. Too bad his dad is Harald the Skull-Splitter, Village Chief and the roughest and toughest Viking of them all.
On a raiding voyage to Scotland, Thorfinn and his friends Velda and Oswald are kidnapped by Ranald MacRanald, chieftain of the Clan MacRanald. Little does Ranald he know that his methods of 'torture' (making the Nicest Viking sew with the women and clean the castle from top to bottom) are actually Thorfinn's idea of a brilliant Scottish holiday! Will Chief Harald the Skull-Splitter come to his son's 'rescue' before Thorfinn drives the Rotten Scots crazy with politeness?
Thorfinn the Nicest Viking is a funny, illustrated, action-packed new series for young readers which bridges the gap between Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 136 pages. 197 x 158 mm. With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books, 2016.
About the Author
David MacPhail left home at eighteen to travel the world and have adventures. After working as a chicken wrangler, a ghost-tour guide and a waiter on a tropical island, he now has the sensible job of writing about yetis and Vikings. At home in Perthshire, Scotland, he exists on a diet of cream buns and zombie movies. David is also the author of Yeti on the Loose and the Thorfinn the Nicest Viking series.
Richard Morgan was born and raised by goblins on the Yorkshire moors. He has painted backgrounds for Disney TV and now writes and illustrates children's books. He lives in Cambridge, England, and has a family of goblins of his own.
Reviews
'This character [Thorfinn] is pretty irresistible.'
-- Goodreads, Barbara
'Thorfinn may be the world's worst Viking, but his story makes a delightful and entertaining read... told with excellent pace and lots of humour... This title will be much enjoyed by newly confident readers, as it is presented with many amusing drawings, a clear large typeface, controlled but never dull vocabulary and short chapters. But it is the story, with its clear strong characters and amusing twists and turns, supported by lively and engaging illustrations, that will keep them reading and laughing to the end.'
-- Carousel, Liz Dubber
Thorfinn the Nicest Viking & the Raging Raiders (Book 5 in the Series)
ISBN 9781782502333
Regular price $10.50by David MacPhail; Illustrated by Richard Morgan
- Thorfinn the Nicest Viking is a funny and fearsome series which bridges the gap between Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!
- David MacPhail takes readers on a journey filled with gruesome Viking heroes, adventurous battles -- and a polite young Viking who would rather be at home with a mug of pinecone tea!
- Illustrated with hilarious sketches by Richard Morgan, as well as cut-out-and-keep collectable character cards, games and fun facts
Thorfinn is a nice, polite young Viking. How will he manage to rescue his mum from bunch of marauding rival Vikings?
Prepare yourself for the wrath of the Norsemen! That is, if you don't mind and it's not too inconvenient...
Everyone knows Vikings are ruthless barbarians whose idea of a good time involves pillaging, plundering and feasting. But Thorfinn is no ordinary Viking! He is always polite and happily offers to wash the dirty dishes. Too bad his dad is Harald the Skull-Splitter, Village Chief and the roughest and toughest Viking of them all.
Indgar villagers are out watching an elk polo match, the village is attached, and Thorfinn's mum goes missing, presumed kidnapped. Harald, Velda Thorfinn and his boisterous brothers chase the mysterious raiders across the North Sea towards Scotland. Will Thorfinn the Nicest Viking manage to find his mum and bring her back home safe and sound?
Thorfinn the Nicest Viking is a funny, illustrated, action-packed new series for young readers which bridges the gap between Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 136 pages. 197 x 158 mm. With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books, 2016.
About the Author
David MacPhail left home at eighteen to travel the world and have adventures. After working as a chicken wrangler, a ghost-tour guide and a waiter on a tropical island, he now has the sensible job of writing about yetis and Vikings. At home in Perthshire, Scotland, he exists on a diet of cream buns and zombie movies. David is also the author of Yeti on the Loose and the Thorfinn the Nicest Viking series.
Richard Morgan was born and raised by goblins on the Yorkshire moors. He has painted backgrounds for Disney TV and now writes and illustrates children's books. He lives in Cambridge, England, and has a family of goblins of his own.
Reviews
'With short chapters and plenty of laughs on every page, this highly entertaining series of Viking antics is ideal for confident independent readers. Hilarious illustrations accompany the witty text, and there are puzzles and trading cards to be enjoyed at the end of the book.'
-- BookTrust
'It is a story filled with humor that will appeal to young readers... Readers who like the graphic novel/fiction book format will like the cartoon like illustrations throughout the book. Reluctant readers will find the format and short chapters accessible.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
Thorfinn the Nicest Viking & the Terrible Treasure (Book 6 in the Series)
ISBN 9781782502357
Regular price $10.50by David MacPhail; Illustrated by Richard Morgan
- Thorfinn the Nicest Viking is a funny and fearsome series which bridges the gap between Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!
- David MacPhail takes readers on a journey filled with gruesome Viking heroes, adventurous battles -- and a polite young Viking who would rather be at home with a mug of pinecone tea!
- Illustrated with hilarious sketches by Richard Morgan, as well as cut-out-and-keep collectable character cards, games and fun facts
Thorfinn is a nice, polite young Viking. How will he manage to find the stolen treasure and save his village?
Prepare yourself for the wrath of the Norsemen! That is, if you don't mind and it's not too inconvenient...
Everyone knows Vikings are ruthless barbarians whose idea of a good time involves pillaging, plundering and feasting. But Thorfinn is no ordinary Viking! He is always polite and happily offers to wash the dirty dishes. Too bad his dad is Harald the Skull-Splitter, Village Chief and the roughest and toughest Viking of them all.
Harald the Skull-Splitter and fellow chief Magnus the Bone-Breaker find a massive treasure chest in the remote Western Isles of Scotland. Thorfinn and his rival Olaf must guard it overnight, but despite their best efforts, they can't help falling asleep. In the morning the treasure has disappeared and now Thorfinn's village is at stake. Can Thorfinn the Nicest Viking and his friends find the missing loot in time to save their village?
Thorfinn the Nicest Viking is a funny, illustrated, action-packed new series for young readers which bridges the gap between Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!
Click here to read an excerpt from the book.
The 6th book in the Thorfinn series.
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 136 pages. 197 x 158 mm. With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books, 2016.
About the Author
David MacPhail left home at eighteen to travel the world and have adventures. After working as a chicken wrangler, a ghost-tour guide and a waiter on a tropical island, he now has the sensible job of writing about yetis and Vikings. At home in Perthshire, Scotland, he exists on a diet of cream buns and zombie movies. David is also the author of Yeti on the Loose and the Thorfinn the Nicest Viking series.
Richard Morgan was born and raised by goblins on the Yorkshire moors. He has painted backgrounds for Disney TV and now writes and illustrates children's books. He lives in Cambridge, England, and has a family of goblins of his own.
Reviews
'Morgan's loosely drawn ink--and--wash cartoons add appropriately comical notes, as does the dialogue... and occasional outsized belch... Brains trump brawn every time--at least for this horn--helmed peacemaker.'
-- Kirkus
Thorfinn the Nicest Viking & the Dreadful Dragon (Book 7 in the Series)
ISBN 9781782505655
Regular price $10.50 Sale price $9.50by David MacPhail; Illustrated by Richard Morgan
- Thorfinn is the world's worst viking -- polite, kind, intelligent, and with no interest in raiding and plundering!
- Hilarious dialogue plus brilliant illustrations makes this a perfect series to encourage solo reading among developing readers
- Thorfinn, The Nicest Viking is a funny and fearsome series for young readers who love Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!
- Seventh book in the early-reader chapter book series where hilarious dialogue meets brilliant illustration
Thorfinn is a nice, polite young Viking. Can he persuade a dreadful dragon to help him win the Shetland Fire Festival competition?
Prepare yourself for the wrath of the Norsemen! That is, if you don't mind and it's not too inconvenient...
Everyone knows Vikings are ruthless barbarians whose idea of a good time involves pillaging, plundering and feasting. But Thorfinn is no ordinary Viking! He is always polite and happily offers to wash the dirty dishes. Too bad his dad is Harald the Skull-Splitter, Village Chief and the roughest and toughest Viking of them all.
Vikings far and wide are travelling to Scotland's Shetland Islands for the great Fire Festival where they'll compete to become the ultimate champion by creating dazzling fire displays. Chief Harald is determined to be victorious but it seems as if Thorfinn has ruined their chances against rival Viking Chief Magnus the Bone-Breaker, until he remembers a story about a once-legendary dragon, now in hiding…
Can Thorfinn and his ragtag crew track down the dreadful dragon and persuade her to help them put on a winning performance?
Thorfinn and the Dreadful Dragon is the seventh adventure for Thorfinn the Nicest Viking in this funny, action-packed illustrated series for young readers which bridges the gap between Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!The 6th book in the Thorfinn series.
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 136 pages. 197 x 158 mm. With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books, 2019.
About the Author
David MacPhail left home at eighteen to travel the world and have adventures. After working as a chicken wrangler, a ghost-tour guide and a waiter on a tropical island, he now has the sensible job of writing about yetis and Vikings. At home in Perthshire, Scotland, he exists on a diet of cream buns and zombie movies. David is also the author of Yeti on the Loose and the Thorfinn the Nicest Viking series.
Richard Morgan was born and raised by goblins on the Yorkshire moors. He has painted backgrounds for Disney TV and now writes and illustrates children's books. He lives in Cambridge, England, and has a family of goblins of his own.
Reviews
'Thorfinn and the Dreadful Dragon is funny and adventure-filled, and would be particularly enjoyed by newly-independent readers. While it's sure to be a hit with existing fans, it also works well as a stand-alone.'
-- Roaring Reads
Thorfinn the Nicest Viking & the Putrid Potion (Book 8 in the Series)
ISBN 9781782506379
Regular price $13.50 Sale price $13.00by David MacPhail; Illustrated by Richard Morgan
- Eighth book from the author of Scholastic LOLlies-shortlisted Thorfinn and the Awful Invasion
- Thorfinn is the world’s worst viking -- polite, kind, intelligent, and with no interest in raiding and plundering!
- Hilarious dialogue meets brilliant illustration in this early-reader chapter book series, perfect for young readers who love Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Thorfinn is a nice, polite young Viking. When Chief Harald is poisoned by a putrid sleeping potion, can Thorfinn find the cure and save the village?
Prepare yourself for the wrath of the Norsemen! That is, if you don't mind and it's not too inconvenient...
Everyone knows Vikings are ruthless barbarians whose idea of a good time involves pillaging, plundering and feasting. But Thorfinn is no ordinary Viking! He is always polite and happily offers to wash the dirty dishes. Too bad his dad is Harald the Skull-Splitter, Village Chief and the roughest and toughest Viking of them all.
When Chief Harald is poisoned by a putrid sleeping potion, Thorfinn suspects visiting soothsayer Ragwich. Banished for offending the power-hungry wise man, Thorfinn and his friends set sail to find the world's best potion maker to brew a cure. Unfortunately, the antidote requires a very rare ingredient.
Can Thorfinn find the cure and wake Harald before Ragwich takes control of the village?
Thorfinn and the Putrid Potion is the eighth adventure for Thorfinn the Nicest Viking in this funny, action-packed illustrated series for young readers which bridges the gap between Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set in a world where manners mean nothing and politeness is pointless!
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 128 pages. 197 x 158 mm. With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books, March 2020.
About the Author
David MacPhail left home at eighteen to travel the world and have adventures. After working as a chicken wrangler, a ghost-tour guide and a waiter on a tropical island, he now has the sensible job of writing about yetis and Vikings. At home in Perthshire, Scotland, he exists on a diet of cream buns and zombie movies. David is also the author of Yeti on the Loose and the Thorfinn the Nicest Viking series.
Richard Morgan was born and raised by goblins on the Yorkshire moors. He has painted backgrounds for Disney TV and now writes and illustrates children's books. He lives in Cambridge, England, and has a family of goblins of his own.
Reviews
Praise for Thorfinn the Nicest Viking:
'Hand these to fans of How to Train Your Dragon.'
-- School Library Journal
'With short chapters and plenty of laughs on every page, this highly entertaining series of Viking antics is ideal for confident independent readers. Hilarious illustrations accompany the witty text, and there are puzzles and trading cards to be enjoyed at the end of the book.'
-- BookTrust
'It is a story filled with humor that will appeal to young readers... Readers who like the graphic novel/fiction book format will like the cartoon like illustrations throughout the book. Reluctant readers will find the format and short chapters accessible.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
Velda the Awesomest Viking and the Voyage of the Deadly Doom
ISBN 9781782507178
Regular price $13.50 Sale price $12.50by David MacPhail; Illustrated by Richard Morgan
Oi, you snivelling pig-dogs! Are you ready for a Viking adventure?
Velda is a small girl with a big axe. The only problem is, everyone thinks she can't be a proper Viking because she's just a little girl". PURLEASE! She sets sail with Freya, captain of the dragonship Valkyrie, and her notoriously ferocious crew for a life of awesome adventure (and very loud belching).
But when the Valkyrie and her crew are captured by the Queen of the Saxons, Velda is the only one who can free her friends. The small and mighty Viking must travel to the mysterious Islands of Deadly Doom, but there's just one problem, er, well more than one, actually - she doesn't have a ship, a crew, or a clue how to get there...
Join Velda on her quest as she makes some unlikely new friends and takes on terrifying tasks, all while proving she's the awesomest Viking around.
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 160 pages. 197 x 158 mm (6.5 x 7.79 inches). With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books, Sept 2021.
About the Author
David MacPhail left home at eighteen to travel the world and have adventures. After working as a chicken wrangler, a ghost-tour guide and a waiter on a tropical island, he now has the sensible job of writing about yetis and Vikings. At home in Perthshire, Scotland, he exists on a diet of cream buns and zombie movies. David is also the author of Yeti on the Loose and the Thorfinn the Nicest Viking series.
Richard Morgan was born and raised by goblins on the Yorkshire moors. He has painted backgrounds for Disney TV and now writes and illustrates children's books. He lives in Cambridge, England, and has a family of goblins of his own.
Reviews
Praise for Thorfinn the Nicest Viking:
'Hand these to fans of How to Train Your Dragon.'
-- School Library Journal
'With short chapters and plenty of laughs on every page, this highly entertaining series of Viking antics is ideal for confident independent readers. Hilarious illustrations accompany the witty text, and there are puzzles and trading cards to be enjoyed at the end of the book.'
-- BookTrust
'It is a story filled with humor that will appeal to young readers... Readers who like the graphic novel/fiction book format will like the cartoon like illustrations throughout the book. Reluctant readers will find the format and short chapters accessible.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
Porridge the Tartan Cat series
ISBN 9781782503569
Regular price $10.50When Porridge was a wee kitten he toppled into a tin of tartan paint -- which is easy to do and not so easy to say. Now he lives by Loch Loch with the quirky McFun family: Gadget Grandad, Groovy Gran, Dino Dad, Mini Mum and the twins, Roaring Ross and Invisible Isla. Everyone has a super secret -- or two-- and Porridge is always there to lend a helping paw when things go awry. If there's a fishy biscuit in it for him... And things do often go awry in the McFun family. In this zany new series for young readers, Porridge purrfectly CAT-a-logs the family's hilarious adventures from a cat's-eye perspective. With wacky twists, silly word play and meow-nificent illustrations in every chapter, readers won't even want to paws for breath.
Book I: Porridge the Tartan Cat (it's a long story involving a tin of tartan paint!) has discovered Gadget Grandad is not your average snoringly boring grandad after all! He's a super-duper secret spy -- and he needs help from Porridge (the cat, not the gloopy breakfast) and the twins Isla and Ross to defeat his arch enemy Fergus McFungus. McFungus has stolen the secret secret recipe for disaster. Can Porridge and the twins help their shark-surfing, shed-racing, space travelling grandad stop him and save the world? Maybe with the help of some brawsome bagpipes...
Book II: Porridge the Tartan Cat & the Bash-Crash Ding, Porridge the Tartan Cat has been framed! Someone is sabotaging Isla and Ross' attempts to reunite Groovy Gran's band and Porridge is the top suspect. Someone is sabotaging Isla and Ross' attempts to reunite Groovy Gran's band, the Tattie Scones, and Porridge is the top suspect. Only he knows the real villain is a dastardly dog -- the Dug o' Doom. Will the Tattie Scones ever rock again? Can a balloon-riding, wool-chasing, saucer-flying tartan cat stop the crafty canine and clear his name?
Book III: Porridge the Tartan Cat has been cat-napped! But nobody has noticed! The twins, Isla and Ross, are too busy trying to help their super-scientist mum who has accidentally shrunk herself with some super-short shortbread. Will the twins be able to unshrink Mini Mum? Can they rescue Porridge from a pet shop infested with crocodiles, dung beetles and his arch-enemy Moggiarty?
Book IV: Porridge the Tartan cat (it's a long story involving a tin of tartan paint!) and the twins, Isla and Ross, have been dragged to Loch Ness where Dino Dad is hoping to dig up some pre-historic bones. But when a magic wishing bone transforms Dino Dad into a real-life dinosaur, he's mistaken for the Loch Ness Monster and captured by a Nessie-hunter! Can they prove Dino Dad isn't really Nessie and save him from the dastardly Fergus McFungus? Join Porridge and the twins on this dino-tastic, Nessie-riding romp around Scotland's most famous loch. What a Loch Ness mess!
Book V: Porridge the Tartan cat and the twins Isla and Ross can't wait to visit the funfair that's just come to town -- but this funfair isn't fair at all. Riding the Howlercoaster doesn't just turn their knees to jelly, it turns Ross into a hairy scarewolf! Dastardly Fangus McFungus is using the unfair funfair as a cover for his sneaky scheme to find the most powerful, most pongyful element in the universe: sproutinium. But why does he need to transform children into creepy creatures to do it? Join Porridge on this rollercoaster-riding, stink-sniffing, wolf-whiffing adventure with Isla and Roaring Ross! Can they stop Fangus from stinking out the whole town? Will they change Ross back before he's stuck as a beast forever?
Book VI: Porridge the Tartan Cat has lost his tail, or rather, it's invisible and so is Isla! When pesky Auntie Hettie and her pampered pooch enter the perfect pet show, they will stop at nothing to WIN. But Porridge and Invisible Isla have different ideas. Vanishing cream, dancing dugs and a Best Pet Trophy -- how much trouble can a tartan cat get into?
Recommended by the publisher for 5 - 7 years old.
Softcover.
Each book is 197 x 158 mm.
Floris Books.
The Gutsy Girl
ISBN 9781632861238
Regular price $22.00 Sale price $19.80Escapades for Your Life of Epic Adventure
by Caroline Paul; Illustrated by Wendy MacNaughton
A New York Times Bestseller
From the author of You Are Mighty, a real-life derring-do woman, a collection of exhilarating stories, activities, and tips to inspire girls to pursue a life of adventure and excitement.
Why should girls miss out on the joy of adventure? They can jump off rocks, swing on ropes, and climb trees just as well as boys can. But girls often allow fear to stand in their way.
In The Gutsy Girl, author Caroline Paul emboldens girls to seek out a life of exhilaration. Once a young scaredy-cat herself, Caroline decided that fear got in the way of the life she wanted--of excitement, confidence, self-reliance, friendship, and fun. She has since flown planes, rafted big rivers, climbed tall mountains, and fought fires as one of the first female firefighters in San Francisco. In The Gutsy Girl, she shares her greatest escapades as well as those of other girls and women from throughout history, and offers engaging activities such as confidence-building stances, creating a compass, positive self-talk, and using crickets to estimate outside temperatures. Each section includes a place for girls to “journal” their adventures, thus encouraging a new generation to develop a zest for challenges and a healthy relationship to risk. The Gutsy Girl is Lean In for young girls, a book about the glorious things that happen when you unshackle from fear and open up to exhilaration. Fully illustrated and enlivened throughout by bestselling illustrator Wendy MacNaughton's whimsical pen-and-ink drawings.
Hardcover, 160 pages. Black and white illustrations throughout.
Bloomsbury Publishing USA, 2016.
Reviews
From Nest Owner, Lisa Di Lorenzo: "After signing this book out of the library the third time, I decided that I just had to carry it in the shop. I read aloud to my son, 6 yrs at the time, the story of how she collected 2L milk cartons, made a large, layered, duct-taped milk carton raft with her father, and convinced other kids to sail it down river with her. There's the call to abandon ship as it's starting to sink after not too long, but it's absolutely hilarious and like all her stories, we felt in an adventurous and very free state of mind, and we had some great laughs while reading. This is a wonderful book to have in the home for all children, in my opinion! I do think that as a young girl, I'd have especially appreciated it, and I wonder if having books like these in our home library opens up the world a bit and the paradigms that we tend to think in. Overall, the book is very well-written, illustrated, edited, and printed. It's chockfull, and a great book to gift/ own for inspiration and laughs."
"A Modern Manifesto for Bravery, Perseverance, and Breaking the Tyranny of Perfection. A former firefighter and lifelong adventurer’s clarion call for the joy of adventure in a culture obsessed with risk-averse achievement." -Maria Popova, BrainPickings.org
“The perfect book for young feminists, or really any woman who needs a dose of inspiration in her life . . . Viva la Gutsy Girl!” – Buzzfeed
“Part high-energy how-to guide, part hilarious memoir, and part interactive adventure journal designed to help girls of all ages build confidence, pluck, and bravery by venturing outside.” – Outside Magazine
“Delightful . . . There's a lot here that will thrill any girl--or boy--of any age.” – San Francisco Chronicle
“Caroline Paul's inspiring and sometimes astonishing stories of the adventures that she and other great women have undertaken, alongside Wendy MacNaughton's beautiful illustrations, make The Gutsy Girl the book of the year for daredevils, doers, and dreamers of all ages.” – Cheryl Strayed, author of WILD
“Paul encourages readers--girls, specifically--to pursue lives of excitement in a book that blends elements of memoir, guidebook, and journal.” – Publishers Weekly
“If Pippi Longstocking and Sheryl Sandberg got together and penned a book for tween girls, this brilliantly written and illustrated gem would be it.” – Parent.co
“An incredible book for raising 'gutsy' girls and a must-read for adventurous women . . . Paul's book will convince any woman that she, too, is destined for a life of epic adventure--whether it's in the woods or in the boardroom.” – Quartz.com
“A must for inspiring girls of all ages--young and young at heart.” – Stanford Magazine
“Paul's exuberant prose is made even better by Wendy MacNaughton's charming illustrations, which help place us in the adrenaline-fueled scenes . . . An adventure tome, field manual, journal, and self-help book all in one, Gutsy makes an excellent gift for girls graduating elementary school, though it's a good read for anyone. The book aims to help young women widen their comfort zone, face fear, and manage insecurity.” – Sierra
“[Lost Cat] is revelatory . . . it moves easily and hilariously from one sentence and chapter to the next . . . it's ingeniously crafted . . . a fiercely charming narrative that sneaks up on a reader, just as the best fantastical books do . . . Lost Cat is an incredibly endearing work, a snapshot of the madness of loving and agonizing over and chasing after animals.” – Jillian Steinhauer, The Los Angeles Review of Books, on LOST CAT
“An uncommonly charming and wise tale.” – Alexis Madrigal, The Atlantic, on LOST CAT
“This playful, quirky book is like a cat that climbs into your lap and purrs; it's impossible not to love it.” – Gayle Brandeis, San Francisco Chronicle, on LOST CAT
“A tender, imaginative memoir infused with equal parts humor and humanity . . . an absolute treat from cover to cover.” – Maria Popova, Brain Pickings, on LOST CAT
The Secret of the Kelpie
ISBN 9781782502524
Regular price $22.95By Lari Don; Illustrated by Philip Longson
- A classic, gripping tale from Scottish folklore, retold by renowned Scottish children's author and storyteller Lari Don
- Features the legendary Scottish creature which inspired Andy Scott's world-famous Kelpies sculptures
- Beautifully accompanied by artist Philip Longson's stunning illustrations
A stunning adaptation of the traditional Scottish folktale of the kelpie -- starring a shape-shifting water horse -- made world-famous by Andy Scott's kelpies statues. Can Flora uncover the secret of the kelpie in time to save her family?
"Every loch in Scotland, however beautiful, has its cold, dark depths.
And every loch in Scotland has its kelpie.
But it's easy to forget those dangers on a sunny afternoon..."
Flora is playing with her brothers and sisters by the loch when she notices a stunning white horse. While her siblings clamour for a chance to ride the beautiful animal, Flora is worried. Where has this strange horse come from? Why are its hoof prints wet?
Too late Flora realises this is no horse! It's a kelpie: a shape-shifting water horse from Scottish folklore known to steal children. Can Flora reveal the secret of the kelpie in time to save her family?
The kelpie, once a lesser-known creature of Scottish mythology, is now enjoying legendary status as Andy Scott's magnificent Kelpies statues have become a world-famous tourist attraction.
The classic tale of the kelpie is wonderfully retold for 4-7 year olds in this gripping adaptation by renowned Scottish children's author and storyteller Lari Don, with breathtaking illustrations by artist Philip Longson.
Recommended for ages 4-7 yrs.
Hardcover, 32 pages with full colour illustrations. 8.7 x 11.8 inches.
Published May 2016 by Floris Books.
Reviews:
'A wonderful re-telling of the traditional Scottish folk tale. The language is very accessible and the hushed earth and water colours of the illustrations perfectly capture the impact of the Scottish landscape and the drama of the story. Ideal for storytelling.'
--Carousel, Annie Everall
'A classic tale of the kelpie that is wonderfully and beautifully retold for children ages 4-7 in this gripping adaptation... and enhanced with the breathtaking illustrations by artist Philip Longson.'
-- Midwest Book Review
'The story is haunting, and along with its lovely, detailed illustrations, it captures the look and feel of Scotland perfectly. '
--Goodreads, Barbara
'... The author uses elements of various traditional versions and acknowledges several collections of Scottish tales as source material. But Don makes her story far gentler than many.'
-- Kirkus
'The illustrations are very pretty and fun, and are an exciting part of the story.'
--Kids' Book Buzz
Praise for the Scottish Traditional Tales:
'Beautiful books which are a great introduction to the folklore genre... Wonderful stories which will give children a real sense of Scottish culture.'
-- Creative Steps
Praise for The Tale of Tam Linn:
'A traditional Scots tale served up both fresh and freshly illustrated.'
-- Kirkus
'The illustrations are very pretty and fun, and are an exciting part of the story.'
--Kids' Book Buzz
'With swirling lines, soft earthy colors, and dramatic compositions, Longson's illustrations capture the beauty of the natural world as well as the ominous undertones of the tale. A haunting picture book with a stouthearted heroine.'
--Booklist
About the Author
Lari Don has worked in politics and broadcasting, but is now a full-time writer and storyteller. She grew up in the north-east of Scotland, and lives in Edinburgh. She is the author of the Fabled Beast Chronicles: First Aid for Fairies and Other Fabled Beasts; Wolf Notes and other Musical Mishaps, Storm Singing and Other Tangled Tasks; and Maze Running and Other Magicial Missions for older children, as well as Rocking Horse War. She has also written another Traditional Scottish Tale with Philip Longson, The Tale of Tam Linn.
You can also visit the author's own website at http://www.laridon.co.uk
Philip Longson is a UK artist and illustrator based in New York. He studied at Edinburgh College of Art and has exhibited his work in shows from London to Edinburgh. Inspired mainly by mythology and folk tales his work usually deals with fantastical or otherworldly stories. He is the illustrator of another Traditional Scottish Tale with Lari Don, The Tale of Tam Linn.
An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures
ISBN 9781782501954
Regular price $37.95by Theresa Breslin. Illustrated by Kate Leiper.
Mysterious selkies, bad-tempered giants, devious fairies and even Loch Ness's most famous resident -- these are the mythical beasts of Scottish folklore.
In the highly anticipated companion volume to the much-loved An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales, award-winning children’s author Theresa Breslin brings together a stunning collection of tales from across Scotland.
Alternately humorous, poignant and thrilling, each story is brought to life with exquisite illustrations by Scottish fine artist Kate Leiper.
A wonderful gift, this is a truly stunning book to be treasured for a lifetime and will be enjoyed by parents and grandparents as well as children.
Table of Contents
The Monster of Loch Ness
Gillon and the Selkie
The Story of the Giant’s Causeway
Thomas the Rhymer or True Thomas
The Whirlpool of the Corryvreckan
The Mermen of the Bell Rock
The Archer and the Island Beast
The Big Grey Man of Ben Macdui
The Wulver
The Wee Folk of Merlin Crag
The Saving Grace
Recommended for Ages 6 - 9 years.
Hardcover, 192 pages, with colour illustrations. 278 x 216 mm (8.5 x 10.9 inches).
Floris Books, 2015.
Reviews
This is a rare delight; a harmonious braiding of pitch-perfect storytelling with illustrations of breathtaking elegance and integrity. Every home should have at least one copy.'
-- Debi Gliori
'Theresa Breslin brings an array of creatures to life with her assured and captivating storytelling, and she places a child at the heart of each tale.'
-- Julia Donaldson
'Beautifully engages the imagination thanks to both the stories and the incredible illustrations that accompany them... The tales are perfect for bedtime stories but also captivating for older readers, making this a book for the whole family to enjoy.'
-- Scottish Field
'Theresa Breslin’s storytelling and the artwork of Kate Leiper combine to produce An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures. Theresa has selected eleven stories from settings across Scotland to tell and re-tell: a Selkie tale from Orkney, Thomas the Rhymer from the Scottish Borders, a story of dangerous women from Arbroath and an adventure of the Wee Folk in Lanarkshire amongst others. Her engaging style makes this an ideal collection to read aloud. But be sure to allow plenty of time to absorb all the beauty in Kate’s minutely detailed illustrations. The book is full of colour and atmosphere and style, a testament to the partnership of writer and illustrator.'
-- Jane Sandell, The Scotsman
'Lively yarn-spinning, delightful illustrations, and handsome bookmaking again make a winning combination in this follow-up to the creators' An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales (2012)… Leiper supplies all 11 tales with bright illustrations that generally run evocatively along the broad margins and off the edges of the pages, offering not scenes of violence but idyllic glimpses of finely modeled small animals and objects, appealingly distracted figures in historical dress, and grassy Scottish hills. A fine choice for reading aloud or alone, rich in creatures more magical than frightening.'
-- Kirkus Reviews
'A memorable collection of Scottish tales, highly recommended for reading aloud.'
-- Booklist
'‘Tis the season also for sumptuously-illustrated gift books. Among the most prizeable this year is An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures by Theresa Breslin, illustrated by Kate Leiper (Floris, £14.99). Breslin, who more commonly writes for older children young adults and won the Carnegie Medal for Whisper in the Graveyard, has a gift for bringing the old stories to life, and this is enchantingly enhanced by Leiper’s images. This follow up to their An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales, brings us Scotland as a land populated by strange creatures. There’s Nessie, of course, and the Selkies, but the real joy is in the lesser-known fiends: the Big Grey Man, the Island Beast, the “loathseome Nuckelavee” and the Wulver, a creature with the body of a man but the feet and hands of a wolf.'
--Herald Scotland
'unbelievably beautiful illustrations'
--Vermont Country Sampler
About the Author
Theresa Breslin OBE is a multi-award-winning author of over 50 books for children and young adults. Her work has been filmed for television, adapted for stage, broadcast on radio, translated world-wide and won many literary prizes, including the Carnegie Medal. She lives near Glasgow, Scotland and is a regular visitor at book festivals and schools. Theresa was awarded a Scottish Book Trust Outstanding Achievement Award in March 2019, and was made an OBE in June 2019. She and Kate Leiper created An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales and An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures together.
Kate Leiper is a fine artist and illustrator based in Edinburgh. She studied at Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen and has been longlisted for the Kate Greenaway Award. Kate Leiper and Theresa Breslin created An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales and An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures together. Kate is also the illustrator of The Book of the Howlat and A Wee Bird Was Watching.
Peter and Lotta's Christmas
ISBN 9780863153723
Regular price $30.50 Sale price $29.00By Elsa Beskow
Peter and Lotta go to live in the country with Aunt Green, Aunt Brown, Aunt Lavender and Uncle Blue. As Christmas approaches, they discover all kinds of new surprises, but best of all is finding where the presents come from. Is it from deep in the forest where the tallest fir trees grow?
Elsa Beskow (1874-1953) is the most popular children's illustrator in Sweden, where her picture books have been known and loved for over a century.
Recommended for 5 - 8 years.
Hardcover, 36 pages. 234 x 294 mm.
Floris Books.
Reviews
'A beautifully illustrated book with plenty of text. Peter and Lotta prepare for Christmas in Victorian Sweden in the days before Father Christmas, when the Christmas Goat brought gifts. It's full of adventures. A great Christmas read for 4-8 year olds.'
-- Hilary Woolf with Isaac, age 4, Education Otherwise, December 2004
'Evidence from my family and its visitors confirms that Elsa Beskow's Peter and Lotta stories somehow capture the imagination. The illustrations in these lovely hardback editions have something of the charm that Carl Larson's watercolours have. For children I suspect these books have the old-fashioned feel and colour that a good Nordic "heimat" film does for me as an adult. Children love them.'
-- Martyn Rawson, Steiner Education, March 2003
An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales
ISBN 9780863159077
Regular price $37.95 Sale price $35.00by Theresa Breslin. Illustrated by Kate Leiper.
Slithering stoorworms, mischievious brownies, fierce kelpies and magical selkies -- these are the creatures of Scottish folklore.
Award-winning children's author Theresa Breslin has collected the best-loved tales from all over Scotland. Retelling each in its own individual style, she presents funny tales, moving tales and enchanting fairy tales. Soar with the goshawk, dive with selkies and battle with the stoorworm, as each story is brought to life with exquisite illustrations by Scottish fine artist Kate Leiper, which brim with otherworldly beauty.
A wonderful gift, this is a truly stunning book to be treasured for a lifetime and will be enjoyed by parents and grandparents as well as children.
Longlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal 2013
Table of Contents
The Wee Bannock
The Water Kelpie
The Goshawk and the Brave Lady
Whuppity Stourie
The Shepherd's Dog
Rashie Coat
The Selkie of Sanday
The Eagle and the Wren
The Brownie of Ballharn Hill
The Dragon Stoorworm and the Boy Called Assipattle
Tale End
Glossary
Recommended for Ages 6-12 years.
Hardcover, 160 pages, with colour illustrations. 284 x 223 mm (8.5 x 10.9 inches).
Floris Books, 2012.
Reviews
A sublime collection of folk stories… Theresa Breslin's pristine, sparkling retellings are accompanied by enchanting illustrations from Kate Leiper.'
-- The Guardian
'A delightful and varied collection of stories from all over Scotland. Theresa Breslin's style is so compelling and chatty that you feel she is sitting in the room with you, telling you her favourite tales of kelpies and brownies, talking birds, sheepdogs and selkies. And Kate Leiper's illustrations are stunning. This is a beautiful book, which will be treasured by children in Scotland and far afield.'
-- Julia Donaldson, Children's Laureate
'This is a lovely book enhanced with the most beautiful illustrations. Folk stories have not lost their appeal in the modern world -- it is books like this that will keep them alive.
-- Alexander McCall Smith
'An Illustrated Treasury Of Scottish Folk And Fairy Tales is a brilliant compilation of well-kent stories by award-winning author Theresa Breslin -- but her funny, fast-witted storytelling, accompanied by Kate Leiper's otherworldly illustrations of stoorwoorms and selkies, makes these retellings special and truly new. A beautiful book. Buy it as a gift for a parent or grandparent to read to a child.'
-- Julie Bertagna, author of Exodus
'This breath-taking, beautiful book is a joy to look at and hold.'
-- Books for Keeps
'Just in time for the season of gifts, Floris Books have ridden to the rescue. Not only have we a fine author in Theresa Breslin, the book is illustrated in exceptional style by Kate Leiper … Theresa tells us her stories in a strong, unfussy, clear language, just as they should be told … If that were not enough, the illustrations are exceptionally fine. They add considerably to the enchantment of the book … one has rarely seen a kelpie quite so simultaneously magical and powerful as in the double spread for "The Water Kelpie".'
-- Carousel: The Guide to Children's Books
'It's not all Grimm. Or Asbjørnsen and Moe. Now we have Theresa Breslin's An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales, fantastically illustrated by Kate Leiper … the pictures by Kate Leiper are really something … This time it’s Theresa Breslin’s turn to re-tell stories she heard as a child, or learned about in some other way. It is all very, very Scottish. (And if you are not, there is a handy glossary for Sassenachs.)'
-- The Bookwitch
'This beautiful book of Scottish folklore and legends contains eleven charming stories. The atmospheric and sometimes dark illustrations by Edinburgh-based artist and illustrator Kate Leiper really bring these tales to life … This book retells classic Scottish stories that can be appreciated by all the family, featuring tales of kelpies, selkies, brownies and the stoorworm … The book provides a great way to ensure that these fairy tales continue to be passed down from generation to generation and ensure that they will never be lost to the children of Scotland.'
-- Scottish Field Magazine
'The illustrations complement the tales, with sinuous, flowing lines and beautifully realised detail that rewards close attention… A book which would make a wonderful gift and is a very welcome addition to the canon of folk tale classics - an instant classic.'
--Armadillo Magazine
'The words do not fill each page but are intertwined by illustrations so that you are drawn into each story. The illustrations are in muted colours, giving the book a real flavour of Scottish mystic.'
-- Juno
'When excellent stories and lovely illustrations come together in a book with nice thick pages and delightful design, it is apt indeed to call it a 'treasury' … Both in themselves and the inventive ways they are disposed on the page, the pictures by Kate Leiper are stunning. It really is a book to treasure.'
-- School Librarian Journal
'This is a beautifully illustrated and designed book. Quotations from the text "sweep" over the endpapers. The illustrations, by Kate Leiper, are placed on the pages to enhance the text; there are also delightful, apt illustrations around most of the page numbers. The muted tones of the pictures suit exactly the text … the beauty of the illustrations, the “readability” of the text and the fun of linking the stories with others won me over. An ideal addition to a school library, which could be used to compare and contrast stories from different countries and explore the development of story.'
-- Inis Magazine
About the Author
Theresa Breslin OBE is a multi-award-winning author of over 50 books for children and young adults. Her work has been filmed for television, adapted for stage, broadcast on radio, translated world-wide and won many literary prizes, including the Carnegie Medal. She lives near Glasgow, Scotland and is a regular visitor at book festivals and schools. Theresa was awarded a Scottish Book Trust Outstanding Achievement Award in March 2019, and was made an OBE in June 2019. She and Kate Leiper created An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales and An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures together.
Kate Leiper is a fine artist and illustrator based in Edinburgh. She studied at Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen and has been longlisted for the Kate Greenaway Award. Kate Leiper and Theresa Breslin created An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales and An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures together. Kate is also the illustrator of The Book of the Howlat and A Wee Bird Was Watching.
An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Castle Legends
ISBN 9781782505952
Regular price $37.95 Sale price $35.00by Theresa Breslin. Illustrated by Kate Leiper.
Dark dragons, ghostly bagpipers, rude goblins and sly wizards - discover the legends that dwell within the ancient castles of Scotland.
Explore secret passages beneath Edinburgh Castle, search for the mysterious monster of Glamis, capture the faery flag of Dunvegan, joust with knights at Stirling Castle and swim with the selkie of Eilean Donan in this sumptuous collection of tales from iconic Scottish castles. Read much-cherished and little-known legends, each illuminating the character and history of its castle, all brilliantly retold and beautifully illustrated to amuse, thrill and enchant.
A wonderful gift, this is a stunning book to be treasured for a lifetime, bringing history, place and story alive for children, parents and grandparents alike.
This highly anticipated book is the latest volume of much-loved Scottish tale treasuries by Carnegie-award-winning children's author Theresa Breslin and Kate Greenaway Medal-longlisted artist Kate Leiper.
Hardcover, 176 pages, with colour illustrations. 8.5 x 10.9 inches.
Floris Books, 2019.
Recommended for ages 7-10 years.
Reviews
'The castles of Scotland are storied places – literally -- as we learn from Theresa Breslin's engaging narrative in An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Castle Legends, with dramatic pictures by Kate Leiper. A map at the beginning, inset with monochrome paintings, gives us a glimpse of the real places that have given rise to fantastic yarns about goblins, dragons and the seal-creatures known as selkies, but also to human-scale tales involving faithful dogs, cow thieves and identical twins of unusual sagacity.'
-- The Wall Street Journal
'The book's elegant design enhances the reading experience, while the artwork creates strong, enduring images of the people and creatures in the stories. Created primarily with chalk pastels and enhanced with ink and acrylic paint, the illustrations create scenes with unusual clarity, beauty, and mystery... In a time when few new books of legends are published for children, it's a pleasure to find such a beautiful collection of riveting stories.'
-- Booklist
'A map of Scotland with images of the castles appears at the beginning of the book, followed by 11 tales, fluidly told and stunningly illustrated in a large format. The artwork is done in acrylic and ink with pastel on paper and adds detail and visual interest to propel readers forward. This handsome volume will be an appealing addition to libraries as both source material for programs and for individuals to read and share.'
-- School Library Journal
'An exciting collection of deliciously spooky legends associated with no fewer than thirteen ancient Scottish castles... [It] unfolds with luscious authentic illustrations and is told in delightful traditional style... A beautiful children's classic that will cause readers to dream hopefully of visiting all the mystical castles and sites in Scotland associated with these magical tales.'
-- Midwest Book Review
'Each tale is beautifully illustrated with drawings on every page done in chalk pastel on paper with occasional use of ink and acrylic paint... The tales are absolutely fascinating including dragons, Monsters (Loch Ness), Selkies, Goblins, Faeries and more. A brief history of each castle is provided before the tale providing an enriching background...'
-- Youth Services Book Review
'The illustrations are mesmerising... Simply stunning.'
-- Catherine Rayner
'A glorious collection of traditional stories. The perfect gift.'
-- Vivian French
'I loved Fantastic Beasts, and I'm really glad I got to read this book -- it has loads of beasts from Scotland in it, and it's amazing how many stories I didn't even know before. I'm going to ask my parents to visit all the places in the book, and I'm going to ask for the other two books like this for my birthday. The pictures are amazing, and the stories are great for reading at night. My friends like it, too!'
-- Jack, age 9, for Families Glasgow
'Everything you'd expect it to be. What you'd want it to be. From the wonderful cover by Kate, to every last little story by Theresa, set in different castles all over Scotland, and taking place at varying times in history... This is a great book.'
-- Bookwitch
About the Author
Theresa Breslin OBE is a multi-award-winning author of over 50 books for children and young adults. Her work has been filmed for television, adapted for stage, broadcast on radio, translated world-wide and won many literary prizes, including the Carnegie Medal. She lives near Glasgow, Scotland and is a regular visitor at book festivals and schools. Theresa was awarded a Scottish Book Trust Outstanding Achievement Award in March 2019, and was made an OBE in June 2019. She and Kate Leiper created An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales and An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures together.
Kate Leiper is a fine artist and illustrator based in Edinburgh. She studied at Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen and has been longlisted for the Kate Greenaway Award. Kate Leiper and Theresa Breslin created An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales and An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures together. Kate is also the illustrator of The Book of the Howlat and A Wee Bird Was Watching.
Ronia, the Robber's Daughter by Astrid Lindgren
ISBN 9780140317206
Regular price $10.99by Astrid Lindgren, the author of Pippi Longstocking.
On the night Ronia was born, a thunderstorm raged over the mountain, but in Matt's castle and among his band of robbers there was only joy - for Matt now had a spirited little black-haired daughter. Soon Ronia learns to dance and yell with the robbers, but it is alone in the forest that she feels truly at home. Then one day Ronia meets Birk, the son of Matt's arch-enemy. Soon after Ronia and Birk become friends the worst quarrel ever between the rival bands erupts, and Ronia and Berk are right in the middle.
A Puffin book.
Softcover, 176 pages.
Recommended for children 8 - 12 years of age (although some children as young as 7 years may also enjoy, but some people recommend waiting til 10 years old even to introduce the book).
This book is recommended by:
- 'WaldorfInspirations.com' for Grade 5 reading
- 'Blossom and Root' for Grade 3 reading
Up the Mountain Path
ISBN 9781616897239
Regular price $26.95 Sale price $24.50By Marianne Dubuc
Mrs. Badger, an avid collector and naturalist, takes a weekly journey up to Sugarloaf Peak, greeting her friends on the way and sharing her discoveries with them. One day she meets Lulu, a very small cat, who wants to go with her to the top of the mountain. On the way, Lulu learns to take care of the natural world, help those in need, and listen to her intuition. Rich in wisdom and beautifully illustrated, Up the Mountain Path offers a profound story full of lessons about love, generosity, and following one's heart.
Recommended for readers ages 3-7 years.
Hardcover with jacket, 72 pages, with 80 colour illustrations.
7.5 × 9.5 inches (19.1 × 24.1 cm).
Princeton Architectural Press.
Montreal-based Marianne Dubuc is an award-winning author and illustrator of more than ten picture books, including The Fish and the Cat and The Lion and the Bird.
Goldilocks and the Three Bears
ISBN 9781782506614
Regular price $27.50 Sale price $26.50By Gerda Muller
When Goldilocks goes to collect flowers in the wood she gets lost and stumbles upon a pretty house in a clearing. She looks inside and sees a table with three chairs: a big chair, a medium chair and a little chair, and in front of each chair is a steaming bowl of porridge. The porridge smells so good, and Goldilocks is so hungry, that she opens the door and walks inside. But this house belongs to three bears: a big daddy bear, a medium mummy bear and a little baby bear -- and they'll be back soon.
This is a beautiful interpretation of a classic story. Gerda Muller's timeless, intricate illustrations offer wonderful extra detail for children to enjoy. From the very first page, she includes big, medium and little versions of birds, squirrels, mice, plates, umbrellas, slippers, and more. Children and parents will notice new things each time.
Recommended for 3 - 6 years old.
Hardcover, 40 pages. 240 x 296 mm. Colour illustrations.
July 2020, 2nd edition.
Floris Books.
Reviews:
'A beautifully illustrated version of this classic story also adds a clear lesson in manners! Goldilocks, a little girl travelling with a circus, wanders off into the woods on her own. When she finds a lovely house, she enters without thinking. She sits in the chairs, eats the porridge and then settles down for a comfy sleep in the littlest bed. The bears are forgiving but can't help asking why she didn't knock and why she entered without being invited in. It's a lesson Goldilocks will hopefully remember.'
-- Julia Eccleshare, Lovereading4kids
'A beautiful interpretation of the classic story with fabulously intricate pictures which will give extra enjoyment.'
-- Creative Steps, Spring 2011.
'This is a beautiful re-telling of a classic tale, told with lively text and atmospheric and detailed illustrations. The design has a soft, nostalgic feel which works effectively with the well-loved story. The pictures are soft-focused and charming, with the most adorable bears and many surprising details to hold children's interest throughout. This is sure to become a favourite edition for a whole new generation of young children and would make a lovely gift to treasure.'
-- Ruth Walter, Armadillo, March 2011.
'A wonderful interpretation of this classic story with timeless, intricate illustrations offering wonderful extra detail for parents and children to spot together.'
-- Tammy Dolling, March 2011
'A wonderful hardback version of the traditional tale.
There's a lesson to learn about the importance of knocking first, and beautiful illustrations of a cosy rustic home.'
--Juno, Summer 2011.
'An up-to-date re-telling of the well known story but with subtle differences and a slight unexpected twist near the end. My 5 to 7-year-old testers enjoyed spotting the changes, such as Goldilocks living in a circus caravan, and the moral with which the story ends; they liked the funny chairs and tables too.
'Many details are included, such as Mummy Bear's knitting and the furniture is all recognizably made from trees in the wood. The bears are most realistically depicted and their faces are wonderfully expressive. A charming modern version of an old favourite.'
-- Angela Lepper, School Librarian
'Children will relish the myriad small details in the artwork, including the many objects that come in threes; beekeeping stations near the house, balls along the path, piggy banks on the nightstand, bear-shaped chairbacks, bear-themed art on the walls, and bear-head umbrella handles ... While there are many versions of this story out there, here's one worth adding to collections.'
-- Booklist Online, American Library Association
'Muller's version of the three bears adds a delightful mix of tradition and the modern day ...this Goldilocks is innocent of any real wrong-doing and certainly doesn't understand that she shouldn't be there. This innocence and naiveté works well in the book, taking her character from a naughty urchin to a young explorer. Muller's illustrations are done in an understated color palette with dashes of vivacious reds. The bears' home is wonderfully traditional with a Dutch door, carved wooden chairs, and matching comforters on the beds in different colors but all with a bee motif. No one will wonder why Goldilocks enters and stays. It is all so very inviting and cozy ... This is a cheery and slightly modernized version of the traditional story that will be welcome in library collections or as a great bedtime pick.'
-- Wakingbraincells blog
breathe with me
ISBN 9781683640301
Regular price $23.50Using Breath to Feel Strong, Calm, and Happy
Breathe with Me guides young ones ages 4–8 through six exercises to promote body awareness, calm anger, feel stronger in new situations, energize in the morning, and relax at bedtime. Through visualization and play, this engaging breath-by-breath journey teaches children an essential set of self-care skills that will benefit them for a lifetime.
When you're mad or worried or can't wake up in the morning, what can you do? Use the amazing superpower that you already have—breathing.
The newest offering from the bestselling creators of Good Night Yoga teaches kids fun and easy breathing practices based on the proven methods of yoga and mindfulness meditation.
Sample practices:
When something makes you mad or even feels unfair, try this counting breath and you'll feel calmer there.
Sit up and let your spine grow tall. Take a deep breath in, counting silently 1 ' 2 ' 3. Then let your breath out slowly, counting 1 ' 2 ' 3.
When you go somewhere you've never been and you aren't sure what to do, you can use a dandelion breath to feel more comfortable trying something new.
Sit up and let your spine grow tall. Put one hand on your chest. Place your other hand on your belly. Take slow deep breaths and feel your chest and your belly move up and down as the air goes in and out of your body.
At night when it's hard to fall asleep because your mind is busy and your body feels tight, try balloon breath to get relaxed and ready for a good night.
Lie down on your back and let your hands rest by your sides, palms up. Inhale through your nose and imagine filling your body with breath like a big balloon. Exhale and blow the air out through your mouth. What color is your balloon?
Hardcover, 32 pages. 8.25 x 9.75 inches.
Sounds True publisher.
Have a peek inside from the publisher here.
The Apple Cake
ISBN 9781782507635
Regular price $26.95by Nienke van Hichtum; Illustrated by Marjan van Zeyl
An old lady wants to bake an apple cake. She has everything she needs except apples. So she sets off to market to buy some apples, taking a basket of plums to trade along the way, just in case...
This is a classic story of sharing, trading and caring. Children will love guessing what the old lady will acquire next, and how, and seeing how her journey brings her a full circle as her kindness is repaid.
Includes a recipe for baking a delicious apple cake at the back of the book!
Recommended for ages 4 - 6 years.
Hardcover, 24 pages. 27 x 23.5 cm. Colour illustrations.
Floris Books.
First Aid for Fairies and Other Fabled Beasts (Book I of Fabled Beasts Chronicles)
ISBN 9781782501374
Regular price $14.95 Sale price $14.00by Lari Don
Winner of a Scottish Children's Book Award.
When Yann the injured centaur clip clops into Helen's life she decides to help him even though she's not exactly a vet.
But that's just the beginning ... Helen's first aid kit comes in very handy when she meets Yann's friends -- a gang of fabled beasts with a habit of getting into trouble. Together they must solve riddles, fight fauns and defeat the dangerous Master of the Maze before midwinter and the end of the world.
First Aid for Fairies and other Fabled Beasts is the first book in the bestselling Fabled Beast Chronicles, an exciting four-book adventure series starring creatures from myth and legend.
Recommended for 8 - 12 years old.
Softcover, 224 pages. 198 x 130 mm.
Floris Books.
Reviews
'This is an exciting story with lots of things happening, and it's the sort of story that you want to stay up late to keep reading... I think this book would be for girls in junior school who like exciting stories. It's as good as Harry Potter!'
-- Jessica, age 7, Lovereading4kids Reader Reviews
'A great fantasy story full of mythical creatures and legends. This is book one of four and I can't wait to read the other three books. Great for boys and girls aged 8 to 12 but my Mum read it too and loved it.'
-- Tomasz, age 9, Lovereading4kids Reader Reviews
'[A] Wonderful story for children, a gripping fairytale that will keep you reading past your bedtime...My favourite character was Lavender the fairy because she made me laugh when the other characters were being serious.'
-- Cait, age 8, Lovereading4kids Reader Reviews
'First Aid for Fairies and Other Fabled Beasts is a good adventure book full of mystical animals, it is well written and has a good plot. I would rate this book 8/10.'
-- Abraham, age 11, Lovereading4kids Reader Reviews
'The adventure takes place in Scotland, very close to where I live, and it has made it feel very magical to me. I've even been looking out for flying dragons!... I'm dying to read more of Helen's adventures in the rest of the series. Brilliant!'
-- Sam, age 10, Lovereading4kids Reader
'I really enjoyed 'First Aid for Fairies' and I would give it a 5/5 score.'
-- Elspeth, age 10, Lovereading4kids Reader
''First Aid for Fairies' is exciting and you want to
keep reading it to find out the next adventure... It is the longest book I have ever read! And I liked it a lot!'
-- Declan, age 7, Lovereading4kids Reader
'When I started reading this book, I couldn't wait to read it all, and I am really looking forward to the next books in the series. I would definitely recommend this book to children who like to read adventure stories.'
-- Cora, age 8, Lovereading4kids Reader
'Lari Don, a Leith-based professional storyteller, took the younger reader award with a tale of her own... It beat Eleventh Orphan from Joan Lingard who is regarded as the dowager queen of children's books in Scotland.'
--Anne Johnstone, The Herald
'This is an enjoyable fast-paced yarn ... The diverse characters and exciting storyline will enthrall readers who like animals and magic.'
-- BookFest 2008 Recommended Reading Guide
'Strong characterisation, wry humour and Helen's robustly practical attitude to the fabled creatures she encounters add up to a refreshingly different quest tale.'
-- The Scotsman, Spring Books Review
'Lari Don is the next big thing in the world of children's books.'
-- The Five Thirty Show, STV
'This was a very clean book, absolutely nothing inappropriate in it so parents could hand it to a young reader with no fear ... The British setting was very new to me and enjoyable. It seemed to be one of those books that could be read in any time -- just a good, old-fashioned fantasy adventure story.'
-- I Know Good Books blog
'This is a wonderful fantasy story that will be enjoyed by both children and adults ... the transition between Helen's normal world and her conversion to the land of myth and fable was spotlessly done. There was just enough wonder, quarrel and disbelief to bring me right along with her.'
-- myshelf.com
'Even though this book is intended for a younger audience, the pace, writing, and content do not in any way diminish the entertainment that an older reader can get from this story!'
-- NetGalley, May 2012
'This book was fantastic. A wonderful fantasy story with lots of unexpected twists and turns, and fairy laws making things overcomplicated. I would recommend this to anyone in their early teens who likes a good fantasy.'
-- Eleanor Williams, from Boroughmuir High School, writing for Teen Titles magazine
'It is a world where anything can happen - where centaurs roam, dragons fly and evil enemies must be defeated.'
-- Linda Summerhayes, The Edinburgh Evening News
'I'm not quite sure what age group this is aimed at (probably young teenagers), but take my word for it, grandmothers will love it too! ... Sometimes comic, sometimes sad, but always full of excitement.'
-- Stewart Peterson, The Greenock Telegraph
'This fantasy adventure story moves along at a fast pace and the introduction of traditional folklore into a modern setting works well thanks to a range of appealing characters grounded by down to earth, practical Helen. The author, a professional storyteller, and the publishing company are both Scottish and the setting of present day Scotland perfectly complements a story with folkloric elements. This book should appeal to those 8+ fans of fairy and animal stories who are ready to move on from series reading to something more substantial. The passing reference to those English fairies who only want to work with rainbows will make some readers smile.'
-- Sue Roe, The School Librarian
'I really enjoyed the book overall and I believe that it would be a great book for older kids 10+ to read, but I also think it would be a good aloud book perfect for bedtime ... I liked the sense of adventure and I love how the author wove scottish folklore into the story and made it accessible for younger readers/listeners ... this was a well written book that I would recommend parents to buy.'
-- Turning the Pages blog
'First Aid for Fairies is appealing on a number of levels. It is a fantasy adventure but introduces young readers to traditional Scottish mythological characters, and explores some of the Scottish countryside as well. And while Helen is surrounded by creatures of magic, she herself is solidly grounded in science and reality, heals based on the advice from books, and is usually the voice of reason and good sense. She's a good character for her young readers to relate to, because the choices she makes are so well-considered, and every decision comes with a lesson/consequence that isn't so heavy-handed that it will be ignored.
On the publisher's website, the book is considered to be an 8-12 reader; but there is no reason to limit readership to an age-group. Consumers of good vs evil quest-style fairy tale and fantasy will find the unexpected on every page, and love this book regardless of age.'
-- Novelspot
'The story is both an interesting and informative one ... Young readers will be absorbed in the adventure, and they may just learn a thing or two about real friendship.'
-- Indie Reader Houston blog
Wolf Notes & Other Musical Mishaps (Book II of Fabled Beast Chronicles)
ISBN 9781782501381
Regular price $14.95 Sale price $14.00by Lari Don
- The bestselling Fabled Beast Chronicles series is relaunched with a dramatic new design to appeal to new, and existing, readers
- Helen and the fabled beasts must prepare for battle against an old, powerful enemy
- Boys and girls alike will enjoy Lari's skilful blend of fable and fiction, fantasy and fast-paced adventure
As Helen practises her violin for a special Midsummer's Eve concert, her friends, the fabled beasts, prepare to go to war.
Helen soon joins their perilous quest against the evil Faery Queen. She battles with brownies, wrangles with wolves and tries to trick faeries. But will it be enough to help her friends and save herself?
Second book in the bestselling Fabled Beast Chronicles, an exciting four-book adventure series starring creatures from myth and legend.
Recommended for 8 - 12 years old.
Softcover, 256 pages. 198 x 130 mm.
Floris Books. Sept 2014.
Reviews
'Teenagers will enjoy this one.'
--The Greenock Telegraph
One of the Top 10 Summer Reads for 2010
--Evening Times
'The plot is pacey, the action scenes are tense and skilfully written, and the tone of the story is an effective blend of brooding threat and warm camaraderie.'
-- Darren Cult, Write Away
About the Author
Lari Don has worked in politics and broadcasting, but is now a full-time writer and storyteller. She grew up in the north-east of Scotland, and lives in Edinburgh. She is the author of three other books in the Fabled Beasts Chronicles: First Aid for Fairies and Other Fabled Beasts; Storm Singing and Other Tangled Tasks; and Maze Running and Other Magicial Missions for older children, as well as Rocking Horse War. She has also written four picture books for children, The Big Bottom Hunt; How to Make a Heron Happy, Orange Juice Peas and The Magic Word.
You can also visit the author's own website at http://www.laridon.co.uk
Storm Singing & Other Tangled Tasks (Book III of Fabled Beast Chronicles)
ISBN 9781782501398
Regular price $14.95 Sale price $14.00by Lari Don
A centaur, a selkie, a fairy and a phoenix -- Helen has unusual friends. And in this incredible quest, they face some even stranger opponents, from mermaids to angry killer whales.
Helen must help Rona the selkie to win the most important contest of the ocean world, and stop the deep sea powers from going to war. But who is trying to sabotage the competition and why?
Can Helen and the fabled beasts find the real villain, and prevent the most devastating storm the world has ever seen?
The third thrilling instalment of the bestselling Fabled Beast Chronicles, an exciting four-book adventure series starring creatures from myth and legend, introduces new fabled beasts from the wild north of Scotland.
- Boys and girls alike will enjoy Lari's skilful blend of fable and fiction, fantasy and fast-paced adventure
- 'a refreshingly different quest tale.' -- The Scotsman
- Set in the wild north of Scotland, this exciting book introduces yet more fabled beasts inspired by terrifying sea creatures and folklore
Helen and her fabled-beast friends help Rona the selkie in a storm singing contest which leads to greater things. The third installment of Helen's adventures of the bestselling Fabled Beast Chronicles.
Recommended for 8 - 12 years old.
Softcover, 256 pages. 198 x 130 mm.
Floris Books. Sept 2014.
Reviews
'This book will certainly have you singing up a storm... Tales of giant jellyfish, killer whales and a spectacular storm are just some of the delights waiting for you and your class in these pages. This is the third adventure of the First Aid for Fairies Series and it does not disappoint. Highly recommended.'
--Top Class Primary
'Don gives her characters complicated feelings and conflicts. They may be fairies and unicorns, but the choices they make are never straight forward, and their reactions will at times seem very familiar to human readers. Highly recommended for junior schools, or as a read-aloud for younger children.'
--The School Librarian, Autumn 2011
About the Author
Lari Don has worked in politics and broadcasting, but is now a full-time writer and storyteller. She grew up in the north-east of Scotland, and lives in Edinburgh. She is the author of three other books in the Fabled Beasts Chronicles: First Aid for Fairies and Other Fabled Beasts; Storm Singing and Other Tangled Tasks; and Maze Running and Other Magicial Missions for older children, as well as Rocking Horse War. She has also written four picture books for children, The Big Bottom Hunt; How to Make a Heron Happy, Orange Juice Peas and The Magic Word.
You can also visit the author's own website at http://www.laridon.co.uk
Maze Running & Other Magical Mysteries (Book IV of Fabled Beast Chronicles)
ISBN 9781782501404
Regular price $14.95 Sale price $14.00by Lari Don
One of Helen's friends is dying, stabbed in the heart by the Master, and this life-threatening injury needs a magical remedy. Helen and her fabled-beast friends unite, with the help of the dragons, to find a magical token with the power to cure. But they only have until tomorrow night.
On their quests through Scotland for the enchanted healing tokens, they battle with magical lizards, monstrous goats, and a vengeful giant. Fighting together, can they cure their friend and finally defeat the power-crazed Master of the Maze?
Don't miss the heart-stopping climax to the bestselling Fabled Beast Chronicles.
Recommended for 8 - 12 years old.
Softcover, 288 pages. 198 x 130 mm.
Floris Books. Sept 2014.
Reviews
'... Maze Running is firmly entrenched in the Scottish landscape. This has the effect of grounding the magical events and fabled beasts in the real world and making them easier to imagine. The plotting is excellent throughout, giving readers the opportunity to work with Helen to complete her quests.'
-- Inis Magazine
About the Author
Lari Don has worked in politics and broadcasting, but is now a full-time writer and storyteller. She grew up in the north-east of Scotland, and lives in Edinburgh. She is the author of three other books in the Fabled Beasts Chronicles: First Aid for Fairies and Other Fabled Beasts; Storm Singing and Other Tangled Tasks; and Maze Running and Other Magicial Missions for older children, as well as Rocking Horse War. She has also written four picture books for children, The Big Bottom Hunt; How to Make a Heron Happy, Orange Juice Peas and The Magic Word.
You can also visit the author's own website at http://www.laridon.co.uk
Little Fairy's Christmas
ISBN 9780863157738
Regular price $28.50by Daniela Drescher.
Daniela Drescher's unique style brings this magical book of transformation and wish fulfilment to life.
Faith, the Little Fairy, wants to help her friend Mole's wish come true in this magical book of transformation by much-loved illustrator Daniela Drescher, creator of In the Land of Fairies.
One day the Little Fairy's friend Mole shares a secret with her: he wishes that just once he could fly through the air, instead of always burrowing underground. Faith, the Little Fairy, wants to help her friend and she knows that sometimes a fairy can make a wish come true by finding a falling star. That night, the Little Fairy and Mole watch the sky and wait for a falling star. Will Mole's wish be granted?
Stunningly illustrated by Daniela Drescher, this magical book of transformation and wish-fulfilment will capture any child's imagination.
Recommended for 3 - 7 years.
Hardcover, 32 pages.
Floris Books.
Reviews
'Drescher's arresting paintings combine an intensity of colour with the fragility of fairy figures, flowers and plants that will certainly attract young viewers'.
--School Library Association
'a timeless fairytale about making wishes come true, adventures and finding your way back home.'
--The Reading Castle Blog
About the Author
Daniela Drescher is a Floris Books featured author. Read all about this author's life and work on our dedicated author page.
Daniela Drescher was born in Munich and trained in art therapy. She has worked with children for several years and is an illustrator for a parenting magazine. She has written and illustrated many picture books, which are bestsellers in Germany, including, In the Land of Fairies, In the Land of Elves, In the Land of Merfolk, The Elves' Big Adventure, What's Hiding in There?, Merlina and the Magic Spell, Little Fairy's Christmas and Lily the Little Princess (all Floris Books).
You can also visit the author's own website at http://www.danieladrescher.de
Santa Claus and the Christmas Surprise
ISBN 9781782505433
Regular price $27.50 Sale price $25.50By Dorothea Lachner; Illustrated by Maja Dusíková
- Beautiful soft, watercolours by illustrator Maja Dusíková depict a picture-postcard village in the snow
- Shares a positive message about communities coming together to remember what's really important
- A warm-hearted Christmas story with a dash of seasonal magic
A gorgeously illustrated traditional Christmas story about hope and community spirit.
Christmas is coming but Anna and Michael's village is cut off by deep snow. They're worried that Santa Claus won't reach them, so they send him a special wish.
Santa Claus hears their wish, and brings the village a surprise. Can the neighbours work together to reach their Christmas gift?
This is a gorgeously illustrated Christmas story about hope and community spirit, with a dash of traditional seasonal magic from much-loved illustrator Maja Dusíková.
Recommended for 3 - 6 years.
Hardcover, 36 pages. 210 x 293 mm.
Floris Books. 2018.
Reviews
'Illustrated with warm and hazy paintings that remind of traditional Christmas tales.'
-- Foreword Reviews
'Watercolors in soft focus lend an intimacy to what reads like a folktale, with little animal friends in the illustrations for young children to find. A sweet message about the meaning of Christmas giving.'
-- Kirkus
Tom's Christmas Fish
ISBN 9781782502210
Regular price $27.50 Sale price $26.50By Rita Törnqvist-Verschuur; Illustrated by Marit Törnqvist.
The traditional Christmas meal in Prague isn't turkey or ham, but a special kind of Christmas fish. On Christmas Eve, Tom chooses his live fish at the market, and calls it Peppo. He carefully carries it home, through the streets of Prague's old town, in a big bag of water. Tom loves his new pet, but what fate awaits Peppo as the Christmas meal draws near? This charming, child-friendly story presents one culture's Christmas traditions in fascinating detail. At its core is a heartwarming tale of a boy and his grandpa, as they both learn about doing the right thing. Marit Törnqvist's accomplished artwork vividly brings Tom and Peppo's story, and the beautiful city of Prague, to life.
Recommended for 5-8 yrs.
Hardcover, 32 pages with full colour illustrations.
Published September, 2015 by Floris Books.
The Night Walk
ISBN 9781782506393
Regular price $26.95 Sale price $24.30by Marie Dorléans
- A luminous, dreamy story with lyrical text that follows a family on a mysterious moonlit adventure
- Rich, atmospheric illustrations brilliantly evoke a night-time journey through sleepy streets and rugged, beautiful countryside
- Translated from French, the original edition won the prestigious Prix Landerneau, in the best children's picture book category
- Celebrates the importance of family time and the breathtaking majesty of the natural world
The dreamy story of a family's exciting journey through the night. Beautiful and evocative, this award-winning picture book celebrates the importance of family time and the awe-inspiring power of the natural world.
Recommended for young readers aged 4 - 8 years old, but sure to be enjoyed by many older as well.
Hardcover, 32 pages. 275 x 196 mm.
Floris Books.
Reviews
'Awash in nocturnal blue, Dorléans's graphite pencil illustrations of a family of nighttime explorers evoke a luminous sense of wonder. From bedside lamps to the delicate beam of stars, hints of light punctuate each spread, cleverly directing the reader's attention to hidden details -- an owl atop a tree, a badger skulking in the grass, a pair of mice among the rocks -- and reflecting the warm bond of a family.'
-- Jessica Agudelo, New York Times
'Narrated by one of the children, the prose shines with sensory acuity as the family leaves a village behind them with a particular location in mind. "We left the road, and the path/ climbed gently out of the valley./ A train sliced through the darkness," one verso page reads as the family overlooks a landscape of fastidiously needled trees against a star-studded sky. Navy washes overlay graphite pencil and digital illustrations, with fine-lined detail so startlingly observed that readers will feel immersed in each expansive spread. Suspense builds as sparse beams of light illuminate the darkness page by page and each spread carries the family forward through the night. A graceful, perfectly paced appreciation of nature.'
-- Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
'Perfectly paced page turns capture the family's trek and the wonders that await in the world after nightfall. Therein lies the joy of this picture book: Both the journey and the destination are delightful.
A palette of dusky, spectral blues envelops the family on their journey, interrupted only by pops of pale yellow from bedside lamps, porch lights, flashlights, the train's headlights and the moon. When they finally reach the summit of a mountainous slope, the expansive vista and the revelation of their ultimate objective is breathtaking.
Never hurried, this eloquent story is a beautifully measured tale not unlike one giant inhale (the journey) followed by a long, happy exhale (the closing spreads). Pick up a copy and make a night of it.'
--BookPage
'A deep and amazing read. It invites us all to think about adventuring out into the world in the dark, discovering how the world feels with nature around us, darkness, summer heat and wonder. The text in the book is simple, guiding us through the night's adventure, pointing out what can be seen and heard, and allowing us all to marvel at the world covered in night. The text never gets in the way of our amazement, instead encouraging us to see more and play along.
The blue, oh the blue in this book. It perfectly captures the night, lit only by the moon and the stars. Broken at times by windows or flashlight beams or passing trains, the night is allowed to take over all of the pages…
Brilliant, magical and immersive..'
-- Waking Brain Cells
'Though their colors are few, the book's illustrations are lively and lovely, making the world feel awake even before light breaks over the hills in this story about chasing natural wonders.'
-- Foreword Reviews
'This picture book is full of vivid sensory details and atmospheric illustrations that create an experience of nature that both the young and young at heart will certainly cherish.
Dorleans (The Epic Race) hooks her audience on the first page as the parents wake two sleeping children snuggled in their beds, "Wake up, you two... Let's go, so we get there on time." Where could the family need to go so late at night? [...] The mystery is solved in a wonderfully satisfying, spectacular fashion at the book's conclusion.
In The Night Walk, Dorleans depicts the vastness that can be explored in a picture book with minimal words and a limited palette of primarily blue, black and white. Her text pairs with her beautifully detailed graphite pencil and watercolor art to emphasize the expanse of the natural world. The result is awe-inspiring.
-- Jen Forbus, Shelf Awareness
'The poetic, evocative text immerses readers in a nocturnal world; as the family finds its way through the woods... Painstaking line and graphite-pencil shading create depth and dimension for the various tree-lined, rocky, and mountainous terrains depicted along the way. At long last, the four gather atop a boulder to witness the break of dawn -- that's where we were going. This hushed, intimate picture book creates a respite from the demands of the daytime world and pulls readers into a moment of pure wonder and peace.'
-- The Horn Book Magazine, Starred Review
'This family outing, translated from the French, is a sensory delight, detailed with sounds and scents and tactile sensations that are enhanced by experiencing the world in, literally, a different light. Dorléans works wonders within a limited color range of rich blues and warm and bright whites, concluding with a wordless spread of yolk yellow sky and a glaring white sun almost too bright to view without blinking.'
-- The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
'From the chirping of crickets to the scent of grass to the snap of dead branches as the family walks through the forest, the text uses sensory details effectively to help listeners imagine the experience. Beautifully composed and often striking, the illustrations were drawn in pencil, painted with watercolors, and completed digitally.
This rewarding picture book, first published in France, invites children to experience a memorable encounter with the natural world.'
-- Booklist, Starred Review
'Watercolor and graphite pencil illustrations depict an enveloping nocturnal world through saturations of indigo. Young readers' hearts will quicken, feeling embraced by night made real with breathtaking, full-bleed washes of blue that stretch across double-page spreads. This wondrous darkness gleams with reassuring lights (from lamps, windows, flashlights, glinting stars, a woozy moon) while meticulous pencil work provides specificity. A sweater's cables claim readers' attention, as do blades of grass, pine needles, fronds of fern, and a lacework of leaves in a magical night sky perforated by stars. Equally evocative sentences (in taut translations from French) appear in clear, white lettering, engaging the senses: "We threaded through the whispering forest. The earth was damp, the bark smelled comforting." Keeping pace with this family, readers wonder where they're headed and why they must start to hurry near the book's conclusion. Urgency, exhilaration, and anticipation make the walk's conclusion, a luminous, lemony daybreak, all the more powerful... A gift -- here night isn't scary; the unknown is exhilarating and the ending sunny and clear.'
-- Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
'Though the plot and characterization are minimal, the figurative language and journey are rich with imagery and possibility.'
--Youth Services Book Review
'Perfectly paced page turns capture the family's trek and the wonders that await in the world after nightfall. Therein lies the joy of this picture book: Both the journey and the destination are delightful...
Dorléans’ mastery of language (with superb work from translator Polly Lawson) is especially apparent. Her sensory details are remarkable and vivid...
When they finally reach the summit of a mountainous slope, the expansive vista and the revelation of their ultimate objective is breathtaking.
Never hurried, this eloquent story is a beautifully measured tale not unlike one giant inhale (the journey) followed by a long, happy exhale (the closing spreads). Pick up a copy and make a night of it.'
-- BookPage
'Do you remember that feeling of mystery that surrounded night time when you were younger? I loved going on road trips and getting glimpses of night life wherever we were and this book highlights that feeling beautifully. The Night Walk is about a family who wakes up in the middle of the night for a hike to catch the sun rise. The artwork is so beautiful with the contrasting lights in the dark and captures that special subtle magic so well. I'm definitely making it a goal to do this with my kids this summer to share this kind of moment with them as well!'
-- Kid Lit is Lit, Instagram
'Gorgeous and adventurous... this tale of a family’s midnight hike is pretty much the perfect, starlit, dream-come-true for me! ... Splendid through and through.'
-- OrangeMarmaladeBooks.com
Author
Marie Dorléans studied Art and History of Art at the School of Decorative Arts in Strasbourg, France. She graduated in 2010 and has worked as a children's book illustrator since then. The Night Walk is the winner of the French literary prize, the Prix Landerneau, in the best children's book category, and was a New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children's Book in 2021.
Sleep Easy - A Mindfulness Guide to Getting a Good Night's Sleep
ISBN 9781631983344
Regular price $25.50 Sale price $20.50by Paul Christelis; illustrated by Elisa Paganelli
Twins Billy and Betty are having trouble sleeping. Billy’s mind is noisy, constantly chattering, keeping him awake. Betty finds that as soon as her eyes close she starts to worry about what will happen the next day at school. But the twins learn how to have a restful night by using mindfulness techniques to help them sleep tight.
Recommended for children ages 5-9 years.
Hardcover, 32 pages. 7.5" x 9".
Free Spirit Publishing.
Look Inside via this link from the publisher here.
Explore the Learner's guide to the Everyday Mindfulness Series from the publisher here.
Sweet Dreams - Bedtime Visualizations for Kids
ISBN 9781683641704
Regular price $23.50 Sale price $21.50By Mariam Gates; illlustrated by Leigh Standley
From the bestselling author of the Good Night Yoga series
Get ready to send your little one off to a good night’s sleep with Sweet Dreams: Bedtime Visualizations for Kids.
This book includes eight visualizations that help kids slow down, breathe, and become aware of their bodies so they can relax into a good night’s sleep. Whether they are envisioning flying a kite, making it rain, or rocketing to the moon, Sweet Dreams offers guided narratives that will spark their imaginations, as well as breathing techniques that encourage restful relaxation.
Inspired by the popular Cloud Journey Visualization at the end of Good Night Yoga, Sweet Dreams offers proven techniques to help children calm down and settle both physically and mentally so they can enjoy a good night’s rest.
Visualizations include Shrinking Down, Blowing Bubbles, Rocketing to the Moon, Making It Rain, Galloping Through a Meadow, Diving Underwater, Flying a Kite, and Bedtime Breathing.
Mariam Gates has helped thousands of children, parents, and teachers through her Kid Power Yoga program. With more than 20 years of experience working with young people, she has combined her dedication to teaching yoga with her skills as an educator to guide children in accessing their own inner source of strength, confidence, problem-solving, and creativity.
Recommended for ages 8-12 years, but older children and adults will also surely be lulled by these immersive visualizations.
Hardcover, 32 pages.
Sounds True publishing.
About the Author/ Illustrator:
Mariam Gates holds a master’s in education from Harvard University and is the creator of the renowned Kid Power Yoga. She is the author of the bestselling Good Night Yoga and many other yoga-related books for children. She lives in Northern California. For more, see mariamgates.com.
LEIGH STANDLEY is the artist and owner of Curly Girl Design, Inc. She lives in Boston. For more, visit curlygirldesign.com.
Fortunately, the Milk
ISBN 9780062224088
Regular price $9.99 Sale price $9.00by Neil Gaiman
An absolute delight of a madcap story for the young (and young-at-heart) by New York Times bestselling author Neil Gaiman, with equal parts pirates and piranhas, adventure and aliens, oddity and love.
"I bought the milk," said my father. "I walked out of the corner shop, and heard a noise like this: t h u m m t h u m m. I looked up and saw a huge silver disc hovering in the air above Marshall Road."
"Hullo," I said to myself. "That's not something you see every day. And then something odd happened."
Find out just how odd things get in this hilarious story of time travel and breakfast cereal, expertly told by Newbery Medalist and bestselling author Neil Gaiman and illustrated by Skottie Young.
Softcover, 128 pages.
Harper Collins.
Recommended for readers ages 7-10 years for laugh outloud hilarity. A fun family read-aloud. Children a little younger and a little older, as well as adults may enjoy as well.
Reviews
This would also make a wonderful readaloud, but don’t be surprised if the kids insist that it be read in one sitting--and maybe with a side of cookies and milk. -- Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“[A] delightful tale.” -- Wall Street Journal
“If your kids still allow you to read aloud to them, this book is for you.” -- Newsday
“[A]n astounding tale…an absolute delight to read out loud….one part Douglas Adams, one part Doctor Who, and one part The Usual Suspects.” -- boingboing.com
“It’s hard not to love a novel that borrows equally from Calvin and Hobbes and The Usual Suspects. If you read only one book this year, a story with dancing dwarfs is always a wise choice.” -- Kirkus Reviews
From the Back Cover
"I bought the milk," said my father.
"I walked out of the corner shop, and heard a noise like this: T h u m m t h u m m.
I looked up and saw a huge silver disc hovering in the air above Marshall Road."
"Hullo," I said to myself. "That's not something you see every day.
And then something odd happened."
About the Author & Illustrator
Neil Gaiman is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of books for children and adults whose award-winning titles include Norse Mythology, American Gods, The Graveyard Book,Good Omens (with Terry Pratchett), Coraline, and The Sandman graphic novels. Neil Gaiman is a Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR and Professor in the Arts at Bard College.
Skottie Young is an award-winning cartoonist and writer who illustrates New York Times bestselling adaptations of L. Frank Baum's Oz novels for Marvel Entertainment. His unique art style and sensibilities have drawn acclaim worldwide, earning him multiple Eisner Awards. He has worked in comics, toys, and animation for Marvel, Warner Bros., Image Comics, Mattel, Cartoon Network, and many more. Skottie lives in Illinois.
Where is the Dragon?
ISBN 9781776573110
Regular price $23.99 Sale price $22.50Written & Illustrated by Leo Timmers. Translated by James Brown.
The king can’t sleep until the dragon is found. Luckily, the three knights know everything about dragons and are armed to the teeth! Now they just have to find him. They set out into the night with a candle in hand. Soon they find something that looks very much like a dragon … Attack!
The funny rhyming text is by James Brown, an award-winning poet and translator of Gus’s Garage.
Recommended for children ages 4-6 years.
Hardcover, 40 pages. 9 x 11 inches.
Gecko Press.
Reviews:
"Part Monty Python, part bedtime story, and entirely ingenious, Where is the Dragon? will become a quick favorite for fun, madcap and imagination-filled daytime or nighttime story times at home, in the classroom, and for public library collections." ~ Celebrate Picture Books
"With a rhyming storyline underscored by hilarious illustrations, this picture book begs to be read aloud." ~ Kit on Lit
"it would make for a fabulous story-time choice. Timmers’s illustrations feature rich colors, lots of textures, and characters that seem to stand off the page. He works wonders with light and shadow here — to great comic effect." ~ Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast
American Tall Tales
ISBN 9780679800897
Regular price $23.99 Sale price $21.60Renowned children's author Mary Pope Osborne's distinguished folklore collection, refreshed for a new generation of readers.
Considered the best collection of tall tales about Paul Bunyan, Davy Crockett, and other larger-than-life American folk heroes, American Tall Tales is an essential book for every American child, as well as a perennial favorite for classrooms and libraries. The nine wildly exaggerated and downright hilarious stories within this volume will introduce children to the rip-roaring Pecos Bill, the steel-driving John Henry, the cantankerous Sally Ann Thunder Ann Whirlwind, and more as it paints a portrait of America during its infancy.
In the tradition of the original storytellers, beloved children's author Mary Pope Osborne has combined many iterations of these historic tales with her own two cents, as well as fascinating supplemental historical facts. Evocatively illustrated by Michael McCurdy's colored wood engravings, American Tall Tales is an absolute must-have.
Recommended for readers ages 8-12 years (Grades 3-7).
Hardcover, 128 pages. 8.31 x 11.13".
Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers
About the Author:
Mary Pope Osborne is the author of the New York Times number one bestselling Magic Tree House series as well as co-author of the Magic Tree House Fact Tracker series, along with her husband, Will, and her sister, Natalie Pope Boyce. For more information, visit the Magic Tree House® website at MagicTreeHouse.com!
Good Night, Sleep Tight
ISBN 9781776571437
Regular price $23.99 Sale price $23.80by Kristina Andres
Eleven-and-a-half Good Night Stories with Fox and Rabbit
This beautiful read-aloud storybook for all ages features 11½ goodnight stories with friends Fox and Rabbit, who help each other get to sleep—sometimes.
Fox and Rabbit live quite far away, in a bright little house beyond the mole hills. When they wish each other a good night, the rustling pear tree, the raspberries, and the stars join in. If they can't sleep, they count the good nights (335 in total). Or they try sleeping somewhere else—in the trees or in a tent. Sometimes they swing on the lamp shades.
Recommended for readers ages 5-7 years.
Hardcover, 60 pages. 9.5 x 7.5 inches.
Gecko Press.
Reviews
"K-GR 2—'Fox and Rabbit lived quite far away, in a bright little house beyond the molehills.' Together, the two friends have 11-and-a-half small adventures as they try different ways to say 'Good Night'; camp out on the top of the hill; catch a fish in Kangaroo's pouch; sleep upside down like bats; narrowly and hilariously escape a run-in with naughty, old, umbrella-toting Granny Wolf; and more. No matter what, Fox and Rabbit keep bedtime novel with their curiosity, creativity, and loyalty to each other. Translated from German, these witty and poignant stories are best read in order as they build upon one another, referring back to previous escapades. The gentle wordplay translates well. No story is longer than 11 pages, with most coming in around three or four. The final vignette ties everything together with a sweet message of friendship and reveals Rabbit as the narrator. The illustrations, which appear to be watercolor and ink, toggle between full-bleed and spot art. Both layouts augment the whimsical attitude of the narration. Crosshatched textures and a comforting mixture of soft, warm highlights and calming cool colors on thick, creamy paper create a welcoming, rural atmosphere. Don't miss the amusing book cover hidden under the jacket. VERDICT This is a delightful collection of short stories to be read aloud all in one glorious bedtime gulp or rationed to last a week. Perfect for public library collections. " —School Library Journal
About the Author
Kristina Andres studied history of art, literature, and fine arts, and has worked as a freelance artist since 2002. She has written and illustrated numerous children's books and received several awards.
Velda the Awesomest Viking and the Ginormous Frost Giants
ISBN 9781782507857
Regular price $14.95by David MacPhail; Illustrated by Richard Morgan
Tiny and mighty Velda embarks on an icy adventure to battle some enormous enemies, all while proving she's the awesomest Viking around. A hilarious illustrated chapter book from the creators of Thorfinn the Nicest Viking.
Oi, you snivelling pig-dogs! Are you ready for a Viking adventure?
Velda is a small girl with a big axe, and she knows how to use it. Alongside her misfit crew, she's living her best Viking life, sailing the seas in her very own longship and teaching anyone who thinks she's 'just a little girl' a lesson.
But when a raid on the vault of the treasure-obsessed Count Stollenberg goes wrong, Velda is forced into a deal to bring him the legendary Frost Hammer. The only teensy tiny issue is that it belongs to the Frost Giants, who are anything but teensy tiny. Velda and her crew must trek across snow and ice to break into the giants' mountain home, but it seems the Frost Giants are happier to see them than they expected. A bit too happy, in fact…
Join Velda on her mission as she schemes her way out of scrapes and battles enormous enemies, all while proving she's the awesomest Viking around.
Recommended by the publisher for ages 6-9 yrs.
Softcover, 160 pages. 197 x 158 mm (6.5 x 7.79 inches). With 50 black and white illustrations.
Floris Books.
About the Author
David MacPhail left home at eighteen to travel the world and have adventures. After working as a chicken wrangler, a ghost-tour guide and a waiter on a tropical island, he now has the sensible job of writing about yetis and Vikings. At home in Perthshire, Scotland, he exists on a diet of cream buns and zombie movies. David is also the author of Yeti on the Loose and the Thorfinn the Nicest Viking series.
Richard Morgan was born and raised by goblins on the Yorkshire moors. He has painted backgrounds for Disney TV and now writes and illustrates children's books. He lives in Cambridge, England, and has a family of goblins of his own.
Reviews
Praise for Thorfinn the Nicest Viking:
'Hand these to fans of How to Train Your Dragon.'
-- School Library Journal
'With short chapters and plenty of laughs on every page, this highly entertaining series of Viking antics is ideal for confident independent readers. Hilarious illustrations accompany the witty text, and there are puzzles and trading cards to be enjoyed at the end of the book.'
-- BookTrust
'It is a story filled with humor that will appeal to young readers... Readers who like the graphic novel/fiction book format will like the cartoon like illustrations throughout the book. Reluctant readers will find the format and short chapters accessible.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
An Illustrated Collection of Fairy Tales for Brave Children
ISBN 9781782506713
Regular price $34.50Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen; Illustrated by Scott Plumbe
- Features classic tales of courage including Hansel and Gretel, The Selfish Giant and Beauty and the Beast
- Includes fairy tales from renowned storytellers Hans Christian Andersen, the Brothers Grimm, Oscar Wilde and more
- This beautifully produced hardback edition with deluxe paper and ribbon marker is an ideal gift
From wicked queens and fearsome beasts to sneaky witches and terrible giants, this atmospherically illustrated collection of darkly magical fairy tales gathers together stories of children who show true courage and face their fears.
Rediscover seven classic emboldening tales, Hansel and Gretel, The Selfish Giant, Beauty and the Beast, The Spirit in the Bottle, Vassilissa, The Wild Swans and The Three Golden Hairs from renowned storytellers the Brothers Grimm, Hans Christian Andersen, Oscar Wilde and more.
Each story is enriched by atmospheric artwork from award-winning illustrator Scott Plumbe.
Perfect for bedtime reading, this collection is an ideal gift for fearless children everywhere.
Table of Contents
-- The Spirit in the Bottle (Brothers Grimm)
-- The Selfish Giant (Oscar Wilde)
-- The Three Golden Hairs (Brothers Grimm)
-- The Wild Swans (Hans Christian Andersen)
-- Beauty and the Beast (Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont)
-- Hansel and Gretel (Brothers Grimm)
-- Vassilissa (Alexander Nikolayevich Afansayev)
Recommended for ages 6-11 years.
Hardcover, 88 pages.
254 x 210 cm.
Floris Books.
Reviews
'Each tale is beautifully retold using digitally rendered ink and watercolor illustrations over pencil sketches. Stories have an easily discernable moral which centers on the negative of vices such as greed, cruelty, or wickedness. Each fable has elements of the country from which it came, adding a brief look into these lands and peoples. Pictures are an integral part of each story, beautifully drawn, and are essential in creating the mood. The storytelling style is engaging and will have young readers wanting more.'
-- Youth Services Book Review, 5 Stars
Pip the Gnome and the Christmas Tree
ISBN 9781782507697
Regular price $15.50 Sale price $14.50By Admar Kwant
A lovely introduction for young children to the joy of preparing for Christmas, with soft illustrations and simple words.
Shares a gentle message about appreciating simple things.
The small, chunky format and rounded corners make this book perfect for little hands. Discover more of Pip's adventures in the companion board books
Pip the gnome decorates his Christmas tree with help from his animal friends in this gentle board book with simple words - perfect for sharing with young children.
Recommended for 1 - 3 years old.
Board book, 12 pages. Beautiful colour illustrations. 180 x 153 mm.
Floris Books, 2021.
About the Author
Admar Kwant lives with her husband and two children in the Netherlands, by the edge of a lake. Her family life and love of nature inspire her drawing and painting. She regularly creates illustrations for Educare, a Dutch parenting magazine. She is the author and illustrator of Pip the Gnome and Pip the Gnome and the Christmas Tree, gentle board books for young children.
Reviews
'Kwant's art is the star of this simple story. Rendered in soft coloured pencil or oil pastels, the scenes beautifully evoke the playful joy of decorating a tree. Pip is especially endearing, with his apple-doll face, Santa-red hat, and apple-green suit.'
-- Kirkus Book Reviews (US)
'Colourful illustrations and simple words in this utterly charming story written and illustrated by Admar Kwant introduce babies and toddlers to the joy of preparing for Christmas. Soft, wintery colors wonderfully illuminate the day from morning to dusk, ending with the candle-lit tree.'
-- Midwest Book Review (US)
Hello Animals boxed set
ISBN 9781782508564
Regular price $53.50By Loes Botman
A charming box set of four beloved mini board books from Loes Botman's New York Times praised series (Hello Baby Animals; Hello Animals, How Do You Sleep?; Hello Animals, What Makes You Special?; Hello Bugs). An ideal baby gift.
Say hello to sleepy animals, special animals, adorable baby animals -- and brilliant bugs! -- in this vibrant and engaging board book set for babies and toddlers.
The much-loved Hello Animals books by Loes Botman wonderfully combine luminous, life-like pastel illustrations of familiar creatures with spare, accurate words to elevate this simple concept to a unique collection.
Young children will be entranced by exquisite illustrations of wobbly foals, muddy piglets, wiggling centipedes, red-breasted robins, and so many more. The sturdy box set includes four mini board books (Hello Animals, How Do You Sleep?; Hello Animals, What Makes You Special?; Hello Baby Animals, Who Are You?; and Hello Bugs, What Do You Do?) and is an ideal new baby gift or present for a young child.
Recommended for 1 - 3 years old.
Board books are 12 pages each. 160 x 135 mm.
Floris Books.
About the Author
Loes Botman is an illustrator in the Netherlands. She has been widely exhibited and runs workshops. She is also the illustrator of Hello Animals, What Makes You Special?, Hello Animals, Where Do You Live?, Hello Bugs, What Do You Do?, Hello Farm, How Do You Do?, and Hello Birds, What Do You Say?
Reviews
'With detailed artwork in warm, cosy colours, and simple descriptive language, this is a lovely book to read with young children to learn more about a range of animals and extend a child's vocabulary.'
-- Juno
'The book is an ideal size for small hands to grasp and take hold of, and at the same time it is sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear it is certain to be given from younger readers. There are minimal words and the animals are not named so the book presents a great opportunity for adult and child to work together in order to identify and explore each creature and what they are doing.'
-- Armadillo
'Botman's latest nature-themed work does double duty, offering a few facts to the youngest of readers while gently lulling them to sleep. Children learn about the nocturnal habits of various creatures -- cows and sheep bed down in the hay, while rabbits and bears sleep in dens (the contrast between the hulking bear and the tiny bunny is delightful). Set against vivid, detailed backgrounds, these sumptuous illustrations will have eyelids drooping in no time.'
-- School Library Journal
'Luminous snoozy images depict the animals peacefully curled up in their woodland, farm, and home environments. Each animal is surrounded with warm, halo-like colors and visual textures that echo their environments, from barnyard hay to warm, deep dens, bringing gentle artistry to the pages and an invitation for readers, too, to bed down. How do you sleep?'
-- Publishers Weekly
'By keeping the text spare, Botman allows readers to focus on the illustrations, which are quite lovely. They appear to have been done with pastel crayons or some other smudgy medium, as they have a comforting, mottled look. A charming and very simple introduction to animals and their sleeping habits for babies and toddlers.'
-- Kirkus Reviews
'Botman's gorgeous detailed artwork brings the animals vividly to life making this an ideal book for a pre-school read at bedtime.'
-- Outside In World
'Beautiful... Unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, and community library children's board book collections.'
-- Midwest Book Review
'[A] short but sweet little book that would be perfect for bed or rest time.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
Bedtime
ISBN 9781575423159
Regular price $14.95 Sale price $12.50by Elizabeth Verdick; illustrated by Marieka Heinlen
An award-winning author-illustrator team offers a fresh look at the times and transitions all toddlers face daily, giving young children the tools to handle routines with confidence and cooperation.
Board book, 24 pages. 7 x 7".
Free Spirit Publishing.