Peter Cottrill – illustratör

When John and Susan see the scarecrow standing in the middle of a field in the pouring rain, he doesn't look that remarkable. Just like any other scarecrow really. But when he turns up at the cottage to warm himself by the fire, they realize that this is a very special scarecrow indeed. The scarecrow's name is Worzel Gummidge, and he's about to fill the children's world with fun and magic.This welcome new edition of a classic and much-loved story is being published just in time for Worzel's return to our TV screens.

Read Write Inc. Phonics Book Bag Books are engaging texts to support children with additional reading practice outside the classroom. They have been specifically designed for children to take home after school, in order to share their reading journey and celebrate their achievements with parents and carers. The books are closely matched to the existing Read Write Inc. Phonics Storybooks to reinforce children's classroom learning of phonics at the appropriate level, helping them to make even faster progress in reading.

The humorous story of Danny the friendly dragon told with elements of repetition to help beginner readers develop confidence and reading stamina. Some dragons are scary - but not Danny. He loves to help his friends with his fiery breath. But Danny is in for a nasty surprise when a stranger comes to town. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme developed with reading experts at the University of Roehampton.

The Fresh Start Readers support the Read Write Inc. Fresh Start programme and are designed for independent reading in class or at home, after students have finished the Modules. The books are aligned to the phonic progression of the Modules to ensure students are confident in reading them independently and that they experience success. This Reader contains two texts which align with the phonic focus of Module 27 and Module 28.In Behind the Fangs, Jamire meets his favourite actor. In Cat Burglars, two burglars try to steal a painting but someone puts a stop to their plans.Each book contains two high-interest fiction or non-fiction texts on topics that will appeal to older readers. There is a variety of genres across the series, including stories, graphic texts, narrative non-fiction and quizzes - so there's something for everyone.The books have a grown-up look and feel that resembles the books their peers are reading. They contain appealing, age-appropriate black and white or two-colour illustrations, and full-colour photos. Crucially, they feel manageable for struggling readers, avoiding large blocks of text and including short chapters and feature words. Independent reading is supported by a page before each text containing the Green Words, Red Words and Challenge Words they will come across in the text.

The Fresh Start Readers support the Read Write Inc. Fresh Start programme and are designed for independent reading in class or at home, after students have finished the Modules. The books are aligned to the phonic progression of the Modules to ensure students are confident in reading them independently and that they experience success. This Reader contains two texts which align with the phonic focus of Module 27 and Module 28.In Behind the Fangs, Jamire meets his favourite actor. In Cat Burglars, two burglars try to steal a painting but someone puts a stop to their plans.Each book contains two high-interest fiction or non-fiction texts on topics that will appeal to older readers. There is a variety of genres across the series, including stories, graphic texts, narrative non-fiction and quizzes - so there's something for everyone.The books have a grown-up look and feel that resembles the books their peers are reading. They contain appealing, age-appropriate black and white or two-colour illustrations, and full-colour photos. Crucially, they feel manageable for struggling readers, avoiding large blocks of text and including short chapters and feature words. Independent reading is supported by a page before each text containing the Green Words, Red Words and Challenge Words they will come across in the text.

The history of the Tower of London – as told by the ravens that live there.The ravens of the Tower of London bring its fascinating history to life, telling tales of gore, guts and great escapes. Perfect for fans of Horrible Histories, the book is illustrated throughout and packed with fascinating and funny stories that the Yeoman Warders would rather were kept secret from visitors, such as a daring attempt to steal the Crown Jewels, the polar bear who once lived at the Tower and the prisoner who tried to escape through his toilet.

When her private investigator dad goes missing, Annie will need all the help she can get to solve the mystery … A funny and intriguing spy caper from an award-winning author. Annie's dad is a private investigator. She's used to mysterious things going on, but when a string of visitors come to her dad's office, it results in the most mysterious event of all – her dad has disappeared! Annie knows something is wrong and she enlists the help of her friends Matt and Ruth to follow a trail of very sticky clues… Particularly suitable for readers aged 7+ with a reading age of 8.