Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books - Favourite Children's Book Picks - September 2026 - UK Post

 

Gryffin Murphy - Twig's Traveling Tomes - Published by Zaffre (8 Sept. 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1806171521 - Hardback - Age: 9+

A witch with a magical affinity for books who owns a travelling bookstore reluctantly teams up with a charming rogue, her former professor and a gnome in search of a rare stolen grimoire. Perfect for fans of Rebecca Thorne, India Holton, Travis Baldree and Sarah Beth Durst. 

Louella Twig is the only witch of her kind, much to the disappointment of her former mentor and her previous academic ambitions. While others connect to nature as their source of magic, Louella has an affinity with books. Denied her graduation broom, Louella carves a new path using her talent, creating a magical ambulatory bookshop that travels throughout the realm, uniting readers with stories.

She lives a cosy, stable life, until she collides - quite literally - with a mysterious man between the Romance and Adventure aisles. Everett Sharp is handsome, charming ... and a rogue on the run. He's absolutely not someone Louella wishes to share either an adventure or a romance with. But then her old mentor arrives with a desperate request: a valuable grimoire has been stolen and there is only one witch who can retrieve what has been lost ... a witch who now finds herself in need of a bandit with experience.

Together with friends both old and new, Louella and Everett embark on an adventure across the four kingdoms, encountering whimsical creatures, a flying greenhouse full of plant pirates and a magical World's Fair. Along the way, Louella starts to wonder if this new chapter of her life could include some romance after all ...

 P. J. Killburn (Author), Markia Jenai (Illustrator) - Deep Yard: Deep Trouble - Published by ‎Little Tiger (3 Sept. 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1788957922 - Paperback - Age: 8

Jermaine is determined to put the events of his great-great-uncle Carl's Dead Yard behind him. No more supernatural shenanigans! 

But that's easier said than done, and soon Jermaine is hearing a voice calling out to him from the water. Then several kids in his class disappear into the Thames and return with zombie-like personalities, to top it off, snakes are bursting out of the school sinks. 

Jermaine and his friends reluctantly admit there must be a new spooky threat in town. Could it be another monster from Caribbean legend, and does Jermaine have what it takes to stop it? 

The second in a spook-tastic new series, perfect for fans of Goosebumps, Hide and Seekerand Dread Wood.

Emma Carroll - Dracula & Daughters: School for Slayers - Published by Faber & Faber (10 Sept. 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0571388820 - Paperback - Age: 9+

At last . . .

Dracula & Daughters are open for business.

Their mission: to heal vampires and keep the streets of Temstown safe.

Trouble is, the new Guildmaster is insisting the city is now vampire-free, and wants Dracula & Daughters to close.

But the undead are still lurking. After a string of strange events at the prestigious Poisonwood School for Boys, frightened pupils start holding vampire slaying lessons in secret.

It's up to Mina, Buffy and Bella to convince them that slaying isn't the answer. But when vampires are appearing by the classful, is it already too late?

The granddaughters of Dracula are about to have their healing skills firmly put to the test . . . And are reminded never to underestimate the undead.

9+ readers will devour the atmospheric setting, the vampish powers and the gothic details - including a talking raven - perfect for fans of Murder Most Unladylike, The Swifts and TV show, Wednesday.

Guy Bass & David Roberts - The Worst Thing That Could Possibly Happen - Published by Little Tiger (3 Sept. 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1788954198 - Paperback - Age: 8 

I have a question.
What's the worst thing that could happen?
Wait.
Before you decide, let me tell you a story...

Take a trip through the sideways door and let supernatural secrets come alive in these chilling tales of terror! Meet the nightmare pig, a sinister swine with teeth on her mind. Witness the terrifying reality of swapping places with your reflection or visit the ravenous monster in the shed. And, if you dare, come face to fear-filled face with Doctor Panic, who's seen far too much of the world behind the sideways door. But be warned - your world may never be the same again...

The Trouble with Magic: The Hexton Chronicles by Amy Wilson - Book Review - Mr Ripley’s Enchanted Books

Somewhere beyond the last ordinary street—and perhaps just behind the nearest shadow—lies Hexton, a town where magic crackles in the air, old grudges have roots as deep as trees, and a family name can be more dangerous than any spell.

Amy Wilson’s The Trouble with Magic: The Hexton Chronicles is a wonderfully atmospheric beginning to a dark new fantasy series. At its heart is Fray Mantel, a boy who has spent his life trying to smother the strange power stirring inside him. But when a formidable family heirloom awakens and amplifies his magic, Fray is drawn out of hiding and forced towards Hexton—the very place from which his family was banished after a terrible betrayal.

Hexton is a deliciously shadowy creation: part secret sanctuary, part haunted inheritance, and part ticking magical timepiece. Wilson fills it with menace, mystery, and the tantalising sense that every doorway may open onto an old secret. Her prose has a rich, spellbinding quality, conjuring a world where magic is not simply a gift, but a dangerous seed that may grow into something magnificent—or something monstrous.

Fray makes an immediately compelling hero. He is frightened of his powers, suspicious of those who claim to understand him, and burdened by the sins of people who came before him. As he struggles to decide whether he is destined to repeat his family’s mistakes or break free from them, the story asks an enchanting question: are we shaped by our inheritance, or can we choose what we become?

Adding to the book’s gothic charm are Eric Deschamps’s evocative black-and-white illustrations, which lend the story a wonderfully old-fashioned, storybook darkness. Their shadowy detail and eerie atmosphere feel perfectly at home beside Wilson’s magical world, offering glimpses of Hexton’s secrets without giving them all away.

With its cursed legacy, forbidden power and beautifully brooding setting, *The Trouble with Magic* is an inviting first step into a series that promises danger behind every curtain and wonder beneath every stone. Hexton awaits—and readers may find it very difficult to leave.

**Title:** *The Trouble with Magic: The Hexton Chronicles*

- **Author:** Amy Wilson- **Illustrations:** Eric Deschamps, Black and White- **Publisher:** Nosy Crow- **Publication Date:** 10 September 2026- **Format:** Paperback **ISBN:** 9781805135647- **Price:** £7.99 

Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books - Favourite Children's Book Picks - MAY 2026 - UK Post

 

Fiona Dixon - Crow: Thief of Magic - Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books (7 May 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0008717360 - Paperback - Age: 8+

Twelve-year-old Crow is a thief.

Scraping a living on the winding streets of Starsgard, Crow works for the leader of the criminal underworld, stealing from the city’s wealthy ruling class. But when a routine job takes Crow to the home of a mysterious sorcerer, his whole life is turned upside down – and after a planned heist goes wrong, leaving Crow alone and with nowhere to turn, he finds himself a new position as the sorcerer’s apprentice.

Before long, Crow is introduced to the ancient art of dream magic – catching dream essence and using it to create dreams for the rich citizens from whom he once stole. But when Crow learns of an ancient strain of nightmare magic that threatens to unleash devastation on Starsgard, he must make a terrible choice… and decide who he can really trust.

With a stunning, richly-detailed world, an incredible story, and a wonderful cast of characters, Crow: Thief of Magic is an extraordinarily exciting fantasy debut – perfect for fans of Impossible Creatures, His Dark Materials, and Skandar and the Unicorn Thief.

David Solomons (Author), Hazem Asif (Illustrator) - The Ministry of Manners - Published by Piccadilly Press (7 May 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1835873175 - Paperback - Age: 8+

Be quiet. Be polite. Or be silenced.

Alfie and Margot Hawthorne have grown up under the Ministry of Manners, where politeness isn't a choice - it's the law. And one wrong word can change your life. He knows how to stay out of trouble, but she has never been one for quiet obedience.

When the Ministry takes Margot, everything changes. Inside the Manners Retreat, she fights to stay herself in a place built to erase her. Meanwhile, Alfie falls in with the Unsilenced - those who still dare to speak. But the Ministry has plans of its own. And if they succeed, rebellion won't just be punished. It'll be impossible.

Curtis Jobling - Vampire Empire: Red Tide - Published by Fox & Ink Books (7 May 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1917894050 -  Paperback - Age: 11+  

In 900 AD, Shetland, a fearless Norse girl and a blacksmith’s son must fight for survival when a supernatural Viking warband descends on their island, bringing terror, blood, and an unquenchable hunger. The first in a brand new duology from bestselling author, Curtis Jobling.

The people of Unst, Norse and Pict alike, enjoy lives of relative peace – none more so than Hilde, daughter to Jarl Frida, and Cormac, the blacksmith’s boy. Hilde yearns for a life of adventure, like the one her mother had before her, carving her name in the great sagas as a legendary shieldmaiden.

But Hilde should be careful what she wishes for. When a terrible Viking warband arrives upon the island, shrouded by an otherworldly fog and hellbent upon horror, Hilde and Cormac’s worlds are turned upside down. They bring with them terrors and secrets, the likes of which a Norse girl and a Pictish boy could never have dreamt of in their worst nightmares.

For when the Harrowed Men come raiding, there is no escape from their cruelty – or their hunger.

And no amount of blood will slake their thirst …

Penny Boxall - Letty and the Mystery of the Word Thieves - Published by Puffin (28 May 2026) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0241657478 - Paperback - Age: 8+

LONDON, OCTOBER 1775

Lettice Breech is itching to go on another adventure.

But her beloved Pa is sick, and their home is in danger. Letty needs money. She needs treasure.

So, when a mysterious socialite appears in London, promising more treasure than she can imagine, Letty finds herself embroiled in a thrilling new mystery right in her home city. Baffling poems, puzzling clues in dictionaries, and curious notes from a mysterious group known only as The Alphabetters lead Letty on a whirlwind adventure through the streets of London. And then there is - nearly – a murder . . .

Can Letty use her deductive skills to unravel the mystery of the word thieves?

Sophie Anderson - The House With Chicken Legs Runs Away - Book Review/Pre-order - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Published by Usborne Publishing Ltd, 9th of April 2026. Book Cover art by Melissa Castrillion and inside illustrations by Elisa Pagnelli.

The House with Chicken Legs Runs Away is a magnificent and magical follow-up to Sophie Anderson’s enchanting tale that has captured the hearts of thousands, ESPECIALLY ME. This sequel is a spellbinding return to a universe where fantasy and heartfelt emotion intertwine, so much so you might JUST shed a tear or two. 

From the very first page, Anderson’s lyrical storytelling draws you into a realm bursting with wonder and fairy-tale magic. The narrative whisks you away on a pestle and mortar called Valiant, you heard it! In a breathtaking adventure Marinka, with the help of her loyal friend Benjamin and the quick-witted jackdaw Jack, races across fantastical lands in pursuit of answers. The story’s adventurous pace and imaginative settings keep readers of all ages on the edge of their seats. 

What makes this book truly shine is its blend of folklore, fairy-tale wonder and deep, relatable emotions. Marinka’s journey is not just one of physical pursuit but also one of self-discovery and courage. Facing her fears whilst unravelling the mysteries behind her house’s unexpected rebellion, Marinka’s quest is both a vivid adventure and a touching exploration of identity, freedom, and the bonds of friendship.

The House with Chicken Legs Runs Away is, without question, one of the best reads of the year. It offers a continuation of a beloved story while standing on its own as a masterful fairy-tale adventure. Whether you are a longtime fan of the series or new to Marinka’s world, you will find yourself captivated by the book’s charm and warmth.

Get ready to run wild with this house again, the epic tale reminds us that even when everything seems to fall apart, there is always magic waiting just around the bend. 

Why not Pre-order The House with Chicken Legs Runs Away to receive a limited-edition print of Elisa Pagnelli's gorgeous art and a brilliant badge pack so you can carry the house with you ✨E-mail proof of pre-order to marketing@usborne.co.uk✨ Offer ends 08.04.26 UK Only 🙏 You can pre-order from anywhere... but please also remember to support independent bookshops.  

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sophie Anderson (@sophieandersonauthor)

Little Tiger New Children's Book Titles January 2026 - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Guardians of the New Moon: The Year of the Tiger
By Eric Huang, illustrated by Phùng Nguyên Quang
ISBN: 9781788957571 / PB / £6.99

The Heavenly Palace is in uproar! Biao the tiger has gone missing and there's no Year of the Tiger without her. Ming and Miaow are sent to find her - but bringing her back might just be their most difficult mission. Focused and stubborn, Biao hasn't got time for silly things like the lunar new year. The forest she calls home is dying and she's determined to save it. But she can't do it alone and her hot temper keeps getting in the way of finding friends. With time running out, can the Guardians help Biao save her home - and the Year of the Tiger - before it's too late?

Exciting, funny and jam-packed with action, GUARDIANS OF THE NEW MOON is perfect for fans of YOMI AND THE FURY OF NINKI NANKA, TIGER WARRIOR, Laura Ellen Anderson and SPELLCASTERS.

Clem Fatale Has Been Upstaged
By Eve Wersocki-Morris, illustrated by Honie Beam
ISBN: 9781788957625 / PB / £7.99

London, Summer 1951: Clem Fatale, the youngest crook in the city, and her best friend Gilbert are going to see their favourite musical double act, the Wade Sisters, perform at the London Palladium! But then one half of the duo - Betty Wade - disappears.

Her sister Judy hires Clem and Gilbert to find Betty. The pair are soon pulled into the dark side of the theatre scene, and into the orbit of a notorious criminal mastermind.

lifetime?

A rollicking middle grade series full of madcap escapades, fast-talking dames and unlikely heroes, perfect for fans of MURDER MOST UNLADYLIKE, ENOLA HOLMES, ADVENTURES ON TRAINS and Katherine Woodfine.

Star Friends: Charm Breaker
By Linda Chapman, illustrated by Kim Barnes
ISBN: 9781788957670 / PB / £6.99

Do you believe in magic?
Maddie and her friends do! And when they meet the Star Animals, a whole world of adventure unfolds.
After a village charity run, many of the adults in Westcombe (including most of the Star Friends' parents) start to become very energetic and throw caution to the wind when it comes to their responsibilities.

Maddie's mum seems unaffected, but the other Star Friends' parents are suddenly making random online purchases and arranging spontaneous trips out. Maddie is a little jealous at first, but as the adults become more reckless, she realises that dark magic is at work - where is it coming from?

Rowan Foxwood - Magpie Girl - Book Review - Usborne Children’s Books 2026

Magpie Girl by Rowan Foxwood is an enchanting foray into the world of myth and adventure—a story woven with the threads of phoenix legends and the folklore of Baba Yaga. Published on 1st January 2026 by Usborne in paperback.Which is pitched for readers aged 9 and above. Book cover illustration by Crystal Kung and internal illustrations by Tim Banks. 

From the very first glance, the book cover captivates with its striking visuals. The bold title “MAGPIE GIRL” stands proudly, paired with a beautifully illustrated portrait of Lavender Wild—a young girl seemingly caught between the constraints of her tiny village and a world bursting with magic and mystery. The artwork, accented by a red, phoenix-like creature and a hint of a magical bird in flight, perfectly mirrors the novel's exploration of transformation, freedom, and the bittersweet cost of wishes.

Rowan Foxwood, a lecturer of creative writing with a passion for myths and legends, draws on her own experiences as a globe-trotter to craft a narrative that is both richly imaginative and deeply rooted in universal themes. In Magpie Girl, readers are treated to an inventive and poetic reimagining of ancient myths. The narrative unfolds as Lavender, who possesses the rare qualities of growing feathers and communicating with birds, embarks on a flight of fancy—seeking liberation from her daily confines and stepping into a world brimming with wonders, dangers, and the ever-compelling call of adventure.

The book offers more than just a fantastical tale; it delves into themes of belonging and wanderlust, exploring what it means to trust in the transformative power of friendship. When Lavender seizes an opportunity to rescue a friend in peril, the story blossoms into an epic rescue mission fraught with trials—earthquakes, daemons, and witches abound, testing the boundaries of courage and resilience. Amidst these trials, the relationship between Lavender and her steadfast companion Kit deepens, reminding us that sometimes our most profound journeys are those taken together.

Magpie Girl is more than just a children's fantasy adventure—it is an invitation to step into a world where the extraordinary is painted in strokes of magic, where the quest for freedom intertwines with the bonds of friendship, and where every page beckons the reader to dream bigger. Whether you are a fan of myth-laced adventures or simply in search of a narrative that inspires and delights, this book promises to leave an indelible mark on your imagination. Enjoy the journey, and let your inner wanderer take flight!

Piu DasGupta - The Golden Monkey Mystery - Book Review - Nosy Crow Books 2026

Are you ready for an exotic jungle adventure? Well, it's time to inhale this riveting adventure that promises to captivate readers from the very first page. With exquisitely woven narrative threads and a vivid setting, this book takes us on a journey through the enchanting jungles of India, perfectly blending themes of bravery, discovery, and the fight against adversity.

In this imaginative tale, we meet the indomitable Roma Moreau, who aspires to break barriers and become the first woman to study at the Bengal Medical College. Her unwavering determination leads her to uncover the elusive golden monkey, a creature shrouded in mystery and myth. The stakes rise as Roma embarks on a dangerous quest to return the monkey to its home in the majestic Himalayas, armed only with a mysterious map and her fierce courage.

The characters are richly developed, with Roma’s journey reflecting not only her personal ambition but also the broader struggles faced by women in a patriarchal society. The supporting characters add depth and dimension to the story, including bandits, a talking cat, and mystical elements that transform them into a shimmering golden quest that you will absolutely love.  

The author’s descriptive prose invites readers to visualise every scene: from the lush greenery of the forest to the suspenseful moments that keep readers on the edge of their monkey pants. The interplay of reality and magical realism in the narrative invites young readers to dream, ponder, and engage with the world around them.

Beyond entertainment, the book also imparts valuable lessons about female history, conservation, resilience, and the importance of following one’s dreams, making it not just a story but an educational tool for young minds.  

In this outstanding second book, Piu Dasgupta skillfully crafts a personal tale that resonates with readers of all ages. *The Golden Monkey Mystery* is not just a book; it is an invitation to explore, learn, and believe in the magic of adventure. Mark your calendars—this literary treasure is one you won’t want to miss!

**BOOK Release:** Coming January 15, 2026, *The Golden Monkey Mystery* is highly anticipated and certain to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this journey.

For more information and to preorder, visit [Nosy Crow]

Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books - Favourite Children's Book Picks - APRIL 2025 UK

 

Soman Chainani (Author), Joel Gennari (Illustrator) - Coven - Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books (10 April 2025) -ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0008734749 - Paperback - Age: 9+ (Graphic Novel)

Need your magical crime solved?

Call the Witch Coven.

Hester, Anadil, and Dot are legendary across the Endless Woods as vigilante detectives and protectors of the peace. The famed trio are not only talented witches, but also ride-or-die friends who’ve never left a case unsolved.

That is, until the Coven answers a call for help from a mysterious new world―Red Isle, where the Light and Dark Lands are on the brink of all-out war, each blaming the other for a grim spree of deaths. Now the Coven must work together and unmask the killer before Red Isle tears itself apart. Little do they know: the real enemy might be hiding in plain sight …

Anna Kemp (Author), David Wyatt (Illustrator) - The Howling Mountain (A Goblyn Wood Adventure Vol3) - Published by Simon & Schuster Children's UK (24 April 2025) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1398503960 - Paperback - Age: 8+

Looming ahead of them, black against the darkening sky, was the rocky bulk of a mountain . . . brave the perilous heights and fulfill the prophecy. Will you climb the Howling Mountain?

Hazel and Portunia have discovered that the plan to steal magic, involving an alliance between the Fae and the humans, is bigger than they could have ever imagined - and every day more and more children are disappearing.

To save Goblyn Wood, Hazel must climb to the Howling Mountain and retrieve the fabled Fairy Axe. She will be tested again and again on her journey. Can she fulfill the prophecy of the slipskin before the magic of Goblyn Wood is gone forever?

The spectacular conclusion to this imaginative fantasy world by Waterstones prize-shortlisted author Anna Kemp perfect for fans of Nevermoor and Podkin One-Ear!

Georgia Channon - The Curse of the Silvan Oaks - Published by Pushkin Children's Books (10 April 2025) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1782695011 - Paperback - Age: 6+

May the moon light your way...

All is not well in the kingdom of Silvanland. The ancient feud between Queen Titania and King Oberon has turned into a merciless war, and a deadly curse festers in the sacred woods.

When young Prince Cory is kidnapped by Oberon's ruthless soldiers, the Silvan forces think all hope is lost. But fate has other plans. In the mortal world, hidden away in an old oak tree, there lies a portal. And through this portal a girl called Oli will soon fall. Her arrival in the magical land will change everything...

S.A Reyhani - A Sequence of Cosmic Accidents - Published by Rock the Boat (3 April 2025) -ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0861548774 - Paperback - Age: 9+ 

A National Book Tokens 'best new children's books of 2025' pick

 The universe makes no mistakes…

Twelve-year-old Arian never wanted a foster sister, much less the weird and annoying one who has joined his family. From her outlandish outfits and bizarre behaviour to her claim that the random stick she carries is a magical weapon, Madlock is creeping Arian out. There’s just one thing the pair can agree on: that she’s from another planet. Of course, Arian never meant literally…

When Madlock summons a portal to another world, Arian is launched into an adventure of intergalactic proportions. For an ancient enemy is stirring in the shadows, and the universe has a bigger plan for them than the pair could ever have imagined.

Abi Elphinstone - Ember Spark and the Frost Phoenix (Book Two) - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

In "Ember Spark and the Frost Phoenix," Abi Elphinstone captivates readers once again with a spellbinding adventure-packed tale that takes us deep into a fantastical world brimming with danger. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Arctic Circle, this second book in the magical series is a testament to Elphinstone’s ability to weave intricate plots with rich, vibrant, and imaginative characters.

Ember Spark’s journey as an apprentice to see Rusty Fizzbang, the vet for magical creatures, is a thrilling ride from the very first page. Guided by a baby frost phoenix, Ember's quest to save the migrating neverwhales evolves into a gripping race against time. As she navigates the icy landscapes and faces the evil Jasper Hornswoggle (such a great name!) readers find themselves on an exhilarating rollercoaster of emotions. The author's storytelling prowess really shines balancing high-stakes action with beautiful moments of warmth and camaraderie.

Brilliantly illustrated by Kristina Kister, the book comes alive with its stunning cover and illustrations that complement the enchanting narrative. Each illustration serves as a portal into Elphinstone's world as they invite readers to immerse themselves fully in the magic and wonder of Ember's journey. 

What makes "Ember Spark and the Frost Phoenix" truly remarkable is its underlying themes of bravery, compassion, and the importance of standing up for those who cannot protect themselves. Ember is a relatable heroine whose determination and kindness will inspire readers of all ages to embrace their own adventures and confront challenges head-on.

This book is not just a story, it’s a celebration of the spirit of adventure and the bonds we forge in the face of adversity. Elphinstone has crafted a story that is both thrilling and heartwarming, ensuring that it will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page. 

Published by Simon & Schuster Children's UK (24 Oct. 2024).

**Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐**

**Links:**

- [Simon & Schuster Children's UK](https://www.simonandschuster.co.uk)

- [Abi Elphinstone's Official Website](https://www.abielphinstone.com)

- [Kristina Kister's Portfolio](https://www.kristinakister.com)

Hilary McKay (Author), Keith Robinson (Illustrator) - Rosa by Starlight - Book Review - Mr Ripley’s Enchanted Books

In "Rosa by Starlight," Hilary McKay weaves a captivating tale that is at once whimsical and poignant, inviting readers into a world where magic exists just beneath the surface of everyday life. This enchanting story follows Rosa, a young girl whose search for wonder leads her to an unexpected friendship with Balthazar, a large black cat who embodies the spirit of adventure and companionship. 

Rosa's journey begins against the backdrop of a dreary existence with her dreadful aunt and uncle, who threaten to dull her vibrant spirit. Yet, with Balthazar by her side, she is reminded that magic can be found in the most unexpected places, even when life feels particularly heavy.

Moving further forward the plot is set against the breathtaking canvas of Venice, McKay’s storytelling shines and shimmers as she captures the city’s enchanting beauty and rich history. The ancient canals and vibrant streets become a character in their own right, providing a stunning backdrop for Rosa’s adventures. As she navigates the complexities of her new environment, the presence of magic becomes palpable, intertwining with the themes of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of friendship. You also discover this feeling with the beautiful black-and-white illustrations from Keith Robinson. 

While the story is undeniably whimsical, it does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of Rosa's life. Feelings of abandonment and loneliness are juxtaposed with moments of joy and discovery, creating a rich emotional tapestry that resonates deeply with readers of all ages. McKay's ability to balance light and shadow is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.

As Rosa confronts her fears in the face of adversity, readers are invited to reflect on their own journeys. The message that magic can be found even in the most difficult times is both uplifting and empowering. The bond between Rosa and Balthazar serves as a reminder of the importance of connection and the unexpected ways in which support can manifest.

"Rosa by Starlight" is not just a tale of adventure; it is a celebration of imagination and the indomitable spirit of a young girl who refuses to let her circumstances define her. Hilary McKay has crafted a story that sparkles with wonder while also gently addressing the complexities of life.  It is a book that will leave readers with a full rainbow of emotions, encouraging them to look beyond the ordinary and embrace the magic that surrounds us all. Published by Macmillan Children's Books. 

The Best Children's/Kids Book Picks JULY 2024 UK Post - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

Emma Carroll - The Houdini Inheritance - Published by Faber & Faber  (4 July 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0571341412 - Paperback - Age: 9+ 

Magic shows and mysteries abound in this showstopping new standalone from a bestselling author who has sold close to a million copies of these middle-grade adventures! 

The English seaside, 1920s

A world-famous escape artist . . .
A suitcase full of secrets . . .
And a death-defying stunt . . .

When Harry Houdini comes to visit the seaside town of Sidford-on-Sea, Glory and her friend Dennis are first in-line to see him. He is there to perform a daring trick: he will jump off the town pier in chains, pitching himself into the water below. But when Glory outsmarts the infamous Houdini, she is suddenly sucked into his world, and finds herself tasked with looking after his precious trunk - the one that contains all his secrets. 

With Houdini in danger, Glory and Dennis are thrown deep into an adventure that takes them all the way to Coney Island in America, and the dark underbelly of its amusement parks . . .

Alastair Chisholm (Author), George Caltsoudas (Illustrator) - Reek - Published by Barrington Stoke (18 July 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1800902589 - Paperback - Age: 8

Climate catastrophe leaves the people of Earth fighting for oxygen in this gripping dystopian thriller from bestselling sci-fi author Alastair Chisholm.

Sparrow lives in the world after the Reek. The atmosphere is toxically polluted, and Axel Brodie, the tech billionaire behind Zephyr Industries, is cashing in as the only supplier of clean air. Sparrow is struggling to help her family survive until her brilliant inventor friend, Miriam Fenn, comes up with a new form of technology that could break Zephyr’s stranglehold on the air supply. But men like Brodie are hard to defeat, and he will do everything in his power to stop Miriam and Sparrow. Who will triumph in this battle to breathe?

Eve Wersocki Morris - Forest of Forbidden Magic - Published by Hodder Children's Books (4 July 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1444973686 - Paperback - Age: 9+ 

Dare to stray off the path into a spooky supernatural adventure of dark twists and creepy turns? The magic of Grimmhart Forest awaits...

Never go into the forest at night 
Only trust a map written by your own hand
And, above all, do not show the trees your fear . . . 

A mysterious letter containing ominous hints and strange silver charms of a howling wolf and a malevolent fairy leads Tig and Elsa deep into Grimmhart Forest, a dark enchanted world of sinister secrets and creatures unknown. A place where the magical powers of ancient animals are unleashed. The place into which their grandfather has vanished...

Tig and Elsa must stray far from the forest path if they are to outwit those who wish them harm. But trouble lurks in the shadows and danger does not always come from outside. Can Tig resist the lure of his Ice Wolf charm or will his newfound courage spell out his destruction?

Jennifer Killick - Dread Detention (Creatures & Teachers) - Published by Yearling Books (30 July 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0593652282 - Paperback - Age: 9+ 

The Breakfast Club meets Stranger Things in this middle-grade horror novel for fans of Goosebumps! Detention turns even scarier when a group of classmates discover dangers lurking in their school.

When classmates Hallie, Angelo, Gustav and Naira are forced to come to school on a Saturday, they think things can't get much worse. But they're wrong. Things are about to get seriously scary. 

What has dragged their teacher underground? Why do the creepy caretakers keep humming the tune to Itsy Bitsy Spider? And what horrors lurk in the shadows, getting stronger and meaner every minute . . .? Cut off from help and in danger each time they touch the ground, the gang's only hope is to work together. But it's no coincidence that they're all there on detention. Someone has been watching and plotting and is out for revenge . . .