Listen, Layla 
by Yassmin Abdel-Magied

A fascinating and funny read about a determined young Muslim inventor living in Brisbane with Sudanese roots.

How to Change the World
by Rashmi Sirdeshpande
and Annabel Tempest

True tales of incredible teamwork to inspire young readers.

Instructions for Dancing by Nicola Yoon

The latest magnificent meditation on life and love from New York Times bestselling author Nicola Yoon. 

All Our Hidden Gifts by
Caroline O'Donoghue

From an Irish author and set in Ireland, this kept me in a state of spine-tingling suspense, and is as funny as it is spooky. 

Jasper & Scruff: Take a Bow
by Nicola Colton

Trouble at the theatre - can a cat and a dog save the day? A fun-filled and action-packed adventure for emerging readers from an Irish author-illustrator.

The Magic of Sleep
by Vicky Woodgate

A fascinating guide to the world of slumber, filled with amazing and fun fact and fabulous illustrations. 

Do Not Disturb the Dragons
by Michelle Robinson and Sharon Davey

Find out why it’s important to let sleeping trolls drool, how to tame a unicorn, and why you shouldn’t stand at the wrong end of one.

Charmed Life
by Diana Wynne Jones

This classic has been charming readers for over 40 years and is one of my favourite books.

The Cursebreakers Series
by Brigid Kemmerer

Loosely based on Beauty and the Beast, this is a feminist exploration of the classic fairy tale.

Space Detectives
by Mark Powers, illustrated by Dapo Adeola

Sherlock Holmes meets Star Wars in this out-of-this-world, comic adventure. 

Belzhar by Meg Wolitzer

A brilliant coming-of-age story about love, loss, forgiveness, acceptance and finding a sense of belonging.

A Pinch of Magic 
by Michelle Harrison

An absolutely irresistible blend of adventure, intrigue & enchantment.

The House on the Edge
by Alex Cotter

An intriguing thriller set in an ominous old house overlooking the sea with a captivating mystery at its core.

Something I Said
by Ben Bailey Smith

A hilarious & heartfelt story about friendship, family & staying true to yourself.

This Can Never Not Be Real by Sera Milano

An incredibly powerful book which takes readers right into the centre of a terrorist attack at a festival in a small town.

Digger and Me by Ros Roberts

A moving story about friendship, loyalty and coping with change, that will resonate with young readers everywhere.

Darwin's Dragons
by Lindsay Galvin

Inspired by the ground-breaking voyage of the Beagle, this book is itself an extraordinary achievement.

The Outlaws Scarlett & Browne by Jonathan Stroud

The first in a thrilling new fantasy series set in a dystopic future - this will blow you away!

The Black Friend: On Being a Better White Person
by Frederick Joseph

Probably the most enlightening book I've ever read - an absolute essential for every home and school.

Luna Rae is Not Alone
by Hayley Webster

An insightful and impressive middle grade debut with wonderful characters.

Kitty and the Twilight Trouble by Paula Harrison,  
illustrated by Jenny Løvlie

A delightful adventure featuring a superhero-in-training who can talk to cats. 

Pizazz by Sophy Henn

Absolutely hilarious and action-packed, this mixture of text and comic-book style images is ideal for reluctant readers.

The House at the Edge
of Magic by Amy Sparkes

An absolutely brilliant book that's full of fun and brimming with magic.

Savage Her Reply
by Deirdre Sullivan

A bewitching feminist retelling of Irish legend The Children of Lir.

Genie and Teeny: Make a Wish
by Steven Lenton

The most magical fun you could wish for!

When the Sky Falls
by Phil Earle

A masterful, moving and unique exploration of life during World War II.

The Lightning Catcher
by Clare Weze

Ideal for readers who love solving mysteries and exploring wild scientific theories.

The Life and Time of Lonny Quicke by Kirsty Applebaum

A stunning modern fairy tale about a boy with an incredible gift.

The Dark Lady by Akala

A captivating tour through Elizabethan London with a hint of magic too. 

A Plan for the People: Nelson Mandela's Hope for His Nation

Nelson Mandela’s history and heritage is outlined in an accessible and attractive format suitable for age 7 and upwards.

A Most Improper Magick
by Stephanie Burgis

A delightful Regency-era adventure brimming with magic.

Cat Has a Plan by
Laura Gehl and Fred Blunt

The only First Reader that I have managed to persuade my eldest to read so far - this book is amazing!

Love is a Revolution
by Renée Watson 

Self-love is radical love in this compelling coming-of-age story set in Harlem. 

The Mysterious Disappearance of Aidan S. by David Levithan

A fascinating exploration of the impact of an unexplained event on a family and their community. 

Morgana Mage in the Robotic Age by Amy Bond

An exciting debut from an Irish author, set in a world where science and magic collide.