The Best Children's Book Picks MAY 2024 UK Post - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Alastair Chisholm - I Am Wolf - Published by Nosy Crow (9 May 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1839945311 - Paperback - Age: 9+ 

Coll is Wolf.

He lives with his clan on a Construct, a huge technological "creature" driven by the clan's combined willpower. Together they roam their world, fighting other clans and absorbing them into their own.

But when a new and dangerous Construct attacks them, Coll is thrown clear from Wolf and left behind. Now he must survive life on ground and get back to his clan. He is helped by Rieka, a "Tock" who makes the Constructs work. She promises Coll a way to return, but can she be trusted? And what is she really trying to do...?

When Coll uncovers the truth, it destroys everything he thought he knew about his clan, the world they live in, and even himself. In a world full of danger, and suddenly without meaning, can he find a way back?

Jennifer Bell - Magicalia: Race of Wonders - Published by Walker Books (2 May 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1529506143 - Paperback - Age: 7+

From the internationally bestselling author of Wonderscapeand The Uncommoners, comes a spectacular new fantasy series for 9+ set in a world of magical creatures, ancient meteorites and secret organizations, irresistible to fans of Pokémon, Skandar and the Unicorn Thief and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

FEEL THE MAGIC. CONJURE THE IMPOSSIBLE.

When her dad is kidnapped by a woman with a giant hamstoceros, Bitsy and best friend Kosh are swept into a secret world of ancient meteorites and strange beasts called magicores, each conjured using a different emotion. Using a powerful bestiary called Magicalia, the friends must quickly become conjurors themselves, before following a trail of clues that will take them from London to India to Paris, in a race to rescue Bitsy’s dad from a mysterious villain…

Jasbinder Bilan - Nush and the Stolen Emerald - Published by Chicken House (9 May 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1915947024 - Paperback - Age: 8+ 

A stunning new historical children's novel from Costa Award-winning author of Asha & the Spirit Bird.

Anushka is furious. As princess of an Indian kingdom, she has watched the British East India Company take land and her family's most divine jewel – an emerald the size of an apple.

So when her father, the Maharaja, decides to visit Queen Victoria at Buckinham Palace, Nush goes too – determined to bring back the gem that can heal her country. 

• A fabulous new historical direction from Costa-winning and Waterstones-shortlisted author, Jasbinder Bilan.
• Themes of colonialism and identity, mixed with an action-packed royal mystery.

Alexandra Page - The Secret Society of Very Important Post - Published by Bloomsbury Children's Books (9 May 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1526644336 - Paperback - Age: 7+ 

It's 1953, just days from the coronation of Queen Elizabeth, and Penny Black can't get into the summer holiday spirit. Not when she's about to move to Scotland - and away from everything she knows - for good. 

But when Wishyouwas plops into the fireplace in a cloud of soot and chaos, with a summons from the Royal Postmistress herself, all of Penny's plans suddenly go up in smoke.

The intrepid pair are soon on the trail of a mysterious traitor and a potentially deadly plot to halt the coronation. Their investigation will take them across London's busy streets, high up in the air and deeper into danger than they've ever been before.

Barbara Henderson - The Boy, the Witch & The Queen of Scots - BOOK REVIEW - Blog Tour

Welcome to our book review for the third stop on The Boy, Witch & The Queen of Scots by Barbara Henderson's blog tour. Please say Hello at all the other stops (you can check out the list of stops below). We hope you enjoy this review and that it encourages you to read this wonderful book. 

Barbara Henderson's "The Boy, the Witch & The Queen of Scots" is a captivating journey through Scottish history and is published by Scottish independent Publisher Luath Press Ltd (11 April 2024). It's a story of espionage with hints of witchcraft and religion. The plot is full of both danger and peril as it takes a journey through the darker side of life with The Queen of Scots. 

The reader dives and soars into the world of 12-year-old Alexander Buchan as he navigates treachery, terror, and intrigue at the court of Mary, Queen of Scots. The author weaves a tale of moral dilemmas and bravery as Alexander faces the challenges of outwitting a murderous messenger and standing against his own treacherous Earl. With themes of friendship, loyalty, and majestic birds of prey we are faced with the impending turmoil of Reformation Scotland. This book is a must-read for young readers, armchair adventurers, and history enthusiasts alike. 

The author's storytelling talents shine in this engaging and thrilling adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their Arthur Seats until the very end. A true gem in children's literature, "The Boy, the Witch & The Queen of Scots" is a triumph that brings history to life in a way that both educates and entertains. It was such a joy to read and an absolute treat to go back in time and relive this historical Scottish event with all the great characters in a gripping immersive plot. 

www.barbarahenderson.co.uk/

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Onjali Q. Raúf - The Letter with the Golden Stamp - Children's Book Pick - April 2024

Published by Orion Children's Books (11 April 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1510108929 - Paperback - Age: 9+ 

 'I can't remember how old I was when I first started collecting stamps. But I've got a whole shoebox full of them now.

Mam used to help me collect them ... Before she got so ill that she lost her job, her friends...everything.

Now it's my job to take care of her and protect her - and my little brother and sister too. But to do that, I have to make Mam a Secret. A secret no-one can ever find out about. Not even my best friends at school, or Mo, our postman. 

Or the stranger living in the house across the street. The one no-one has seen, but who I know is spying on us. 

The one I think might be Them...'

Deep in the heart of Swansea, Wales, lives a small girl with some big secrets to keep. Secrets that make her one of the best actresses on the planet - because no-one would ever think that, away from school, Audrey is the sole carer for her increasingly sick mam and her two younger siblings ... or a seasoned thief.

With her worlds threatened by the arrival of a mysterious, invisible neighbour, behind whose closed curtains and shut front door may lie a spy, Audrey must take matters into her own hands to save her family.

Inspired by her beloved collection of stamps, her friendly neighbourhood postman (and fellow stamp collector), and her two best friends, off Audrey must go: on an adventure that will lead her to places - and hearts - she never knew existed.

Celebrating the hidden army of Young Carers daily keeping their loved ones alive behind closed doors, and the everyday s/heroes that surround them, The Letter with the Golden Stamp delves into the fears and hopes of Young Carers everywhere, and the invisible sources of kindness knocking on all our doors.

Sam Sedgman - The Clockwork Conspiracy - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Sam Sedgman's "The Clockwork Conspiracy" marks the start of a riveting new series, unveiled by Bloomsbury Children's Books in February 2024. The book's cover, masterfully illustrated by Tom Colohosy Cole, serves as a prelude to the enthralling narrative that awaits within. From the very first pages, readers are thrust into a captivating mystery teeming with rooftop pursuits, enigmatic codes, and scientific marvels. The resonance of Big Ben heralds the commencement of an adrenaline-fueled plot, brimming with danger and transformative potential, where time itself takes on new dimensions.

A perfect complement to Sedgman's collaborative series with MG Leonard, "Adventures on Trains," this tale follows young inventor Isaac Turner on a high-stakes mission to locate his vanished horologist father, unveiling a sinister governmental plot nestled within London's iconic landmarks, against the backdrop of the mesmerising Houses of Parliament.

Sedgman's seamless blend of mystery and breakneck adventure, interspersed with intriguing tidbits, ensures the book's triumph. With expert finesse, the author knits together suspense and innovation, ensnaring readers in a whirlwind of discovery with each twist and turn of the plot. The vivid tapestry of London that he paints breathes life into the city, endowing it with a character as vibrant as any protagonist.

"The Clockwork Conspiracy" beckons to young detectives hungry for pulse-pounding escapades and to thrill-seekers alike, offering a rich tapestry of history, enigma, politics, and exhilaration that will leave readers clamoring for the sequel. Thank you for such a great book! 

The Rise of The Legends by Jake Zortman - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books - Children's Book Picks March 2024 US

The Rise of The Legends by Jake Zortman - PUBLISHED BY Good Harbor Entertainment (March 19, 2024) - Paperback - Age: 8+ 

Mikaela Kadono is bummed when her parents move the family to a creepy, old, fixer-upper house, leaving behind her friends, school and familiar neighborhood. But things quickly look up when she meets her new neighbor, George, who invites her to join a cool club called Drone Legends. Little does Mikaela know that this will be the first step in a life-changing adventure!

On The Drone Legends very first mission, a nearly tragic accident brings a mysterious, talking AI drone into their lives. But was it really an accident? And who created this drone that seems to be far beyond any available technology? As they search for answers, Mikaela discovers that the old house her parents bought holds a secret - a cryptic message from the past, hidden in riddles and codes. With the help of her new friends, they embark on a quest to solve the mystery, which takes them on a perilous journey from adventure on the high seas to secret tunnels deep beneath the ground.

The team applies science, math, cutting-edge technology and old-fashioned gadgets as they solve the clues and battle a mysterious foe who always seems to be one step ahead. The closer they get to solving the mystery, the more it seems that the messages were left specifically for them. But how would someone living a century earlier know that Mikaela and her friends would even exist? And what role is this strange, intelligent drone playing? Is it a friend, or part of a conspiracy to change the course of history?

It’s a nail-biting adventure full of twists and turns, as Mikaela and her friends race against time to stop an evil plot to take over the world. Are they following their destiny, or are they in over their heads? The fate of world and future of humanity hangs in the balance.

The Witch in the Woods: Volume 1 (Grimmworld) by MichaelBrent Collings - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books - Children's Book Picks March 2024 US

The Witch in the Woods: Volume 1 (Grimmworld) by MichaelBrent Collings - Published by Shadow Mountain (March 5, 2024) - Hardback - Age: 10+ - READ SAMPLE

 Strange and terrifying things are suddenly happening in a mysterious town where people are disappearing and changing into characters from the Grimm fairy tales. 

Twins Willow and Jake Grimm are not prepared for the bizarre gadgets and scary changes in their new home of New Marburg, the location of the top-secret Think Tank where their parents now have jobs as scientists. In this town, people jetpack to work, robots direct traffic, and senior citizens duel with laser swords. 

Yet nothing compares to what happens the day after lightning strikes the twins’ house. Their school building transforms around them, becoming a medieval castle—complete with moat, drawbridge, and a dangerous giant who looks strangely like the school’s overly aggressive hall monitor. 

Barely managing to escape before a massive beanstalk lifts the castle above the clouds, Willow and Jake learn that their ancestors, the original Brothers Grimm, were more than storytellers. They were Grimmwalkers, able to travel from our universe to Grimmworld: the universe where all fairy tales are born. 

Somehow, Willow and Jake have been transported to Grimmworld as well. But before the twins can figure out how to get back to their own universe, they discover that their best friends, Hank and Pearl, have morphed into the fairy tale characters Hansel and Gretel and been captured by a candy-obsessed witch deep in the Cursed Forest. 

Now, aided by a mysterious wizard with shimmering golden eyes and a befuddled, talking naked mole-rat named Chet, the twins must trust in each other, believe in themselves, and find the courage to face their darkest fears in order to save their friends, return to their family, and maybe—just maybe—save the world. 

About the author: 

More than just a guy with a weird first name, Michaelbrent Collings is an international bestseller and multiple Bram Stoker Award and Dragon Award finalist. Best known as a master of thrills and chills, he has written bestsellers in science fiction, fantasy, mystery, YA, middle grade, suspense, humor, urban fantasy, and even Western romance. He also makes pretty good chocolate chip waffles.

The Best Children's Book Picks March 2024 UK Post - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Jordan Lees (Author), Vivienne To (Illustrator) - The Whisperwicks: The Labyrinth of Lost and Found -  Published by Puffin (28 Mar. 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0241607497 - Hardback - Age: 8+ 

A boy who doesn't believe in magic. An impossible world that will change his mind.

Eleven-year-old Benjamiah Creek believes in science, logic and the power of reason. He definitely does not believe in magic. But when he receives a mysterious gift in the post - a doll that can transform into a bird - he is led into the impossible (and most definitely magical) world of Wreathenwold, where dark secrets are lost amongst a vast labyrinth of streets.

Benjamiah soon finds himself swept along in a dangerous quest - led by the fierce and brilliant Elizabella, who is determined to solve the disappearance of her missing brother.

Will Benjamiah ever find his way home and discover his puzzling connection with this strange, enchanted world? BUY HERE!

Maria Kuzniar - The Girl Who Dreamed in Magic - Published by Puffin (7 Mar. 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0241624661 - Paperback - Age: 8+ 

From the acclaimed writer of Ship of Shadows comes a brand-new fantasy following the magical journey of one girl and her bear. 

In a land of ice and stars, where constant troll invasions threaten to shake the moon from the sky, lives a girl with a magical destiny. A girl braver than a Viking, who will one day hold the fate of the North in her hands. That girl is Saga Thorolfsdottir.

But there's just one problem: ever since her parents died wielding powerful runes, Saga has been deathly afraid of magic. She would much rather stay within the safety of her village and play with her pet bear, Bjørn, than pursue any kind of magical destiny.

So when Saga accidentally disturbs a clan of trolls in the mountains, leading to her whole village being taken prisoner, she has to face her fears head on. No amount of rune magic will defeat these monsters, and Saga has only one option - to compete in the Fifth Winter contest, an incredible tournament where only the bravest may enter and only one champion can win. The prize? A horn of magic, powerful enough to rattle the gods themselves . . . BUY HERE!

Catherine Doyle - Pirates of Darksea - Published by Bloomsbury Children's Books (14 Mar. 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1526655103 - Paperback - Age: 8+ 

Deep in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, where the full moon rests on the horizon, lies a secret kingdom called Darksea. Ruled by the Pirate King, Captain O'Malley, Darksea's tranquil waters have, of late, been haunted by an invisible and deadly monster - a monster that is eating the once-beautiful islands in gigantic bites.

On the other side of the horizon, at his home in Galway, Max Reid and his family are battling a different monster. His big brother Christopher is in hospital and getting sicker - and his parents have begun to talk of miracles.

Then one night a loud, bright red parrot taps on Max's bedroom window, carrying an invitation from the pirate king. Captain O'Malley needs a new crew member for a dangerous quest, and the reward is everything Max has been hoping for.

But in Darksea, not everyone is as they seem. When Captain O'Malley's secret threatens to upend their mission and destroy Max's chance to help his family, Max realises he's going to have to navigate much more than he bargained for.

Johan Rundberg (Author) A. A. Prime (Translator) - The Queen of Thieves: 2 (The Moonwind Mysteries) - Published by Amazon Crossing Kids (5 Mar. 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1662509612 - Paperback - Age: 10+ 

Mika will do what it takes to uncover a string of thefts in the city―and keep her fellow orphans safe.

After a merciless winter, spring has sprung in 1880 Stockholm, and the city awaits the arrival of the SS Vega, the first ship to have sailed the Northeast Passage. Life is busy at the orphanage, but twelve-year-old Mika quickly notices that the older orphans are up to something―and it doesn’t look good.

When Constable Hoff approaches her with information about thefts around the city, Mika becomes even more concerned about what the other kids are up to―and what they might be planning for the Vega celebration. The police will have no sympathy for orphans, and she’d hate to see her friends condemned to life in jail.

But Mika soon finds herself in a bind she can’t get out of―one that could condemn her own life. Can Mika uncover who is really behind the thefts in the city and keep her friends safe, without getting caught? Find out in this breathless sequel to The Night Raven. BUY HERE!

Natasha Mac a'Bháird - The Tower Ghost: A Sycamore Hill Mystery - Book Review Explore - Mr Ripley’s Enchanted Books

**Natasha Mac a'Bháird - The Tower Ghost: A Sycamore Hill Mystery - Published by O'Brien Press Ltd (1 April 2024)**

Chapter 1: A New Beginning at Sycamore Hill

The grand gates of Sycamore Hill Boarding School stood tall and welcoming as Clare nervously stepped onto the cobblestone path leading to her new home. The crisp Donegal air filled her lungs as she took in the sight of the ancient building surrounded by lush greenery and whispered secrets.

Chapter 2: The Mysterious Tower Window

As Clare settled into her dormitory with her roommates Rose and Molly, a chill ran down her spine when she noticed an old tower looming in the distance. That night, as the moon cast an eerie glow over the school, the girls saw a pale face at the tower window and heard faint cries carried by the wind.

Chapter 3: Whispers of the Past

Rumours of a ghost haunting Sycamore Hill swept through the corridors like wildfire. Clare and her friends couldn't ignore the whispers of a tragic incident from years past - the mysterious death of a pupil whose spirit was said to linger within the school's walls.

Chapter 4: The Haunting of Sycamore Hill

Determined to uncover the truth behind the ghostly sightings, Clare, Rose, and Molly delved into the school's history, unearthing hidden secrets and forgotten memories. But the more they searched, the more they realised that some mysteries were best left undisturbed.

Chapter 5: Unraveling the Enigma

As they pieced together clues and followed cryptic clues, the girls found themselves drawn into a web of intrigue that led them to the heart of the tower. There, they uncovered a truth more chilling than they could have ever imagined - one that connected the past to the present in ways they never thought possible.

Chapter 6: Facing the Unknown

In a race against time, Clare and her friends must confront the ghostly presence that haunts Sycamore Hill before it's too late. With courage and friendship as their guide, they journey into the depths of the tower to confront the secrets that lie within.

Epilogue: A Timeless Friendship

As the sun rose over Sycamore Hill, casting a golden light over the school grounds, Clare, Rose, and Molly stood united, their bond forged through shared adventures and the mysteries they had unravelled. Though the ghost of the tower had faded into memory, their friendship remained as strong as ever, a testament to the enduring magic of Sycamore Hill.

**Natasha Mac a'Bháird - The Tower Ghost: A Sycamore Hill Mystery** is a tale of friendship, courage, and the enduring power of curiosity in the face of the unknown. Join Clare and her friends on a spooky journey through time and mystery as they uncover the secrets of Sycamore Hill and the ghost that dwells within its walls.

Can they solve the mystery before a killer strikes again?

The Best Children's Book Picks FEB 2024 US Post - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

Katherine Marsh - Medusa (The Myth of Monsters, 1) -  ‎Published by Clarion Books (February 20, 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0063303744 - Hardback - Age: 8+ 

From National Book Award finalist Katherine Marsh: Percy Jackson meets Wednesday Addams in this fantastical adventure about Ava, who attends a boarding school for the descendants of Greek monsters and uncovers a terrible secret that could change the world forever. One of Kirkus's most anticipated books of 2024!

Ava Baldwin has always tried to keep her anger in check, just like her mom taught her. But when know-it-all classmate Owen King tries to speak over her yet again, Ava explodes . . . and Owen freezes, becoming totally unresponsive.

Although Owen recovers, Ava's parents whisk her off to her mother’s alma mater, the Accademia del Forte, a mysterious international boarding school in Venice. There, Ava and her brother, Jax, discover that the Olympian gods founded the Accademia to teach the descendants of mythological monsters how to control their emotions and their powers and become functioning, well-adjusted members of society.

But not everything at the Accademia is as it seems. After her friend Fia is almost expelled for challenging a teacher, Ava realizes the school is hiding a dangerous secret. To uncover the truth, Ava and her new friends embark on an adventure that could change the way they view history, mythology—and themselves—forever…or end their lives. 

Nedda Lewers - Daughters of the Lamp -  Published by G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers (February 20, 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0593619308 - Hardback - Age: 8+ 

Believe in fairy tales.

Sahara Rashad lives by logic. Loves science. And always has a plan. Except her dad just whisked her away to her uncle’s wedding in Egypt, upending every single plan she had for the summer.

In Cairo, Sahara’s days are filled with family—and mystery. First, Sahara’s cousins claim the pretentious bride-to-be is actually a witch. Then her late mother’s necklace starts glowing—and disappears.

Sahara’s attempts to recover the necklace lead her to the greatest mystery yet. Deep in an underground chamber lies Ali Baba’s magical treasure. Hidden from a line of sorcerers who threatened to use its powers for evil, the treasure was given to Sahara’s ancestor Morgana for safekeeping and passed down from mother to daughter for generations. Now only Sahara stands in the sorcerers’ way.

Can the girl who’s never believed in magic trust the unknown and claim her legacy as the treasure’s keeper?

Eireann Corrigan - I Will Follow - Published by Scholastic Press (February 6, 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1339002880 - Hardback - Age: 12+ 

It's every influencer's biggest nightmare when a follower decides to kidnap her TikTok hero in order to become her BFF and a big star herself. Like Stephen King's Misery... for the TikTok generation.

The first time Nora saw one of Shea's videos on TikTok, something just clicked. You know how you can see someone and know you're supposed to be in each other’s lives? Well, that's how Nora felt. She knows Shea is a big star, with nearly a million followers, and Nora isn't. But, really, all Nora needs is her own viral moment. And who better to help her with that than Shea

If life isn't going to give Nora entry into Shea's world, Nora's going to have to take matters into her own hands.

Meeting Shea.

Kidnapping her.

Holding her hostage until Shea finally understands...

They are meant to be best, best friends.

Soyoung Park (Author), Joungmin Lee Comfort (Translator)- Snowglobe (The Snowglobe Duology) - Published by Delacorte Press (February 27, 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0593484975 - Hardback - Age: 11+

The gorgeous first edition hardcover of Snowglobe will feature two covers in one (a beautifully illustrated hardcover underneath the stunning jacket) and foil-stamped interior papers at the beginning and end of the book!

In a world of constant winter, only the citizens of the climate-controlled city of Snowglobe can escape the bitter cold—but this perfect society is hiding dark and dangerous secrets within its frozen heart. A groundbreaking Korean novel translated into English for the first time!

Enclosed under a vast dome, Snowglobe is the last place on Earth that’s warm. Outside Snowglobe is a frozen wasteland, and every day, citizens face the icy world to get to their jobs at the power plant, where they produce the energy Snowglobe needs. Their only solace comes in the form of twenty-four-hour television programming streamed directly from the domed city.

The residents of Snowglobe have everything: fame, fortune, and above all, safety from the desolation outside their walls. In exchange, their lives are broadcast to the less fortunate outside, who watch eagerly, hoping for the chance to one day become actors themselves.

Chobahm lives for the time she spends watching the shows produced inside Snowglobe. Her favorite? Goh Around, starring Goh Haeri, Snowglobe’s biggest star—and, it turns out, the key to getting Chobahm her dream life.

Because Haeri is dead, and Chobahm has been chosen to take her place. Only, life inside Snowglobe is nothing like what you see on television. Reality is a lie, and truth seems to be forever out of reach.

Translated for the first time into English from the original Korean, Snowglobe is a groundbreaking exploration of personal identity, and the future of the world as we know it.

Piu DasGupta - Secrets of the Snakestone - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

What do we have here: A mysterious locket? A Missing Father? A Dangerous secret society? Well, you can expect all of these when you pick up the debut book by Piu DasGupta. The Secrets of the Snakestone is due to be published by Nosy Crow on the 14th of March 2024. It's a sinister and captivating debut that whisks readers away on a dramatic adventure through the winding streets and mysterious sewers of Paris. The narrative is so captivating that you'll find yourself eagerly turning each page, much like a sewer rat on the hunt for its next meal! You'll be gobbling up the elements of magic, mystery and danger in a world that is as alluring as it is perilous.

The protagonist, Zélie, is a compelling character who is thrust into a world of intrigue and enchantment when she is given a golden locket that once housed the powerful Snakestone. As she sets out to find the stone and her missing father, she becomes entangled in a perilous race against a treacherous secret society. The narrative is bold and adventurous with twists and turns. It takes readers on a journey filled with riddles to a captivating circus and through a labyrinthine of tunnels that lie beneath the bustling city of Paris.

If this is not already enough to entice you then the connection, through the author's Indian culture and heritage, with the Jungles of Calcutta and a family crime at the center of the mystery will surely compel you to read this bundle of narrative joy. It has all the flavours of curry and a wonderous amount of lively and colourful characters that will leave every reader with a taste for a gothic and dark adventure. 

Piu DasGupta's storytelling is nothing short of brilliant, as it pulls readers into a world where danger and wonder coexist. "Secrets of the Snakestone" is a fantastic and immersive book that will keep you spellbound from the first page to the last. With its blend of mystery, magic and culture, this book is a perfect fit for anyone seeking an enthralling and immersive read. 

The Best Children's Book Picks Feb 2024 UK Post - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

Welcome to our February 2024 roundup of the best children's books! As the world of children's literature continues to flourish, we've carefully picked a selection of captivating and whimsical adventures to heartwarming tales. These books promise to spark imagination and inspire young minds in a world with so much choice. Join us as we delve into this month's top picks, designed to bring joy and wonder to children and adults of all ages. What are you reading this month? 

Siobhan McDermott - Paper Dragons: The Fight for the Hidden Realm - Published by ‎Hodder Children's Books (1 Feb. 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1444970142 - Paperback - Age: 8+ 

An extraordinary destiny unfolds . . .

Twelve-year-old Zhi Ging has always been an outcast. Until she receives an invitation to Hok Woh, an underwater school that offers her the chance to become immortal, and to finally belong. 

There, she battles in hair-raising boat races, meets ageshifting tutors and competes in thrilling trials.

But there are rumours of a growing dark force . . . and students who fail the trials are disappearing. Can Zhi Ging uncover the truth before it's too late?

The first in the unmissable magical fantasy series of 2024, set to take the world by storm. Perfect for fans of Nevermoor and Dragon Mountain.

Mitch Johnson - Toxic - Published by Orion Children's Books (1 Feb. 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1510111929 - Paperback - Age: 9+

Billionaire beauty mogul Anura Hegarty has pledged to acquire as much of the rainforest as possible to preserve it. But when armed guards appear and bring in portable terrariums to capture wildlife, Jessica and her friend Renata realise something much more sinister is going on.

The rainforest holds a frog with a secret to staying young forever, and Jessica and Renata know they must find and save it first! Together with Briony-Rose, the girls journey deeper into the rainforest. 

Danger and betrayal lurk in every corner, and soon they're running for their lives, dodging blow darts and falling into traps. Will the children make it out of the forest alive?

Sarah Driver - Dreamstalkers: The Night Train - Published by Farshore (1 Feb. 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0008595029 - Paperback - Age: 9+ 

The first novel in a spellbinding new fantasy adventure series from the author of The Huntress trilogy. Perfect for readers 8-12 and fans of Philip Pullman, Abi Elphinstone and Katherine Rundell.

Everything changed the day the dreams disappeared… and the nightmares came.

Twelve-year-old Bea lives with her mother Ula and her owl Pip in a cottage on the wild moors. Since the day the dreams disappeared, and an affliction of nightmares began sweeping across the lands, everyone is leaving and their settlement is being abandoned. But when Ula grows sick with the affliction, she won’t leave – and she’s keeping a secret from Bea.

Just as Bea begins to despair, the mysterious Night Train steams across the moors, bringing a stranger who offers her the chance to save her mother. Bea is flung into a faraway adventure in the world of the Dreamstalkers, skilled warriors and performers who must go to work each night inside the dreams of the powerful. But the nightmares are following close behind.

It’s time to board the Night Train and dive into an epic, magical adventure in the world of the Dreamstalkers. (But beware the nightmares…)

L. D. Lapinski (Author) Jo Todd Stanton (Illustrator) - Artezans: The Forgotten Magic (Book1) - Published by ‎Orion Children's Books (29 Feb. 2024) ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1510110090 - Paperback - Age:  8+ 

For the last 400 years, magic has been fading...

Edward Crane has always feared he won't have any magic at all. Sure, he's part of a powerful magic Artezan family, but he's adopted. His twin sister, Elodie, isn't so worried, but then everything always seems to work out perfectly for her.

So when Ed discovers he does have an Artezan power after all, he's relieved. And it's more than he ever could have imagined - in fact, it's a dream come true.

But the problem with dreams is that sometimes they twist themselves into nightmares. And with Ed's new abilities growing by the day, there's a chance that this nightmare will become all too real...