Peter Cottrill – illustratör

Ben sets out for swimming victory in this sporty tale in this inspiring tale of self-belief, from the award-winning author of Goodnight Mister Tom. Ben knows he's taking on a lot, offering to do the first hundred lengths of the swimathon himself, but he's desperate to impress Jack and Harry. But as he swims – and swims – Jack realises that his 'friends' aren't going to show. Now he either has to forfeit or swim another hundred lengths! But support and encouragement come from an unlikely quarter and Ben pushes his way to victory. Particularly suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 7.

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.

Greta is a girl on a mission: to venture to Avalon and bring back a hero who can save her home from destruction by the monstrous giant Yuk. Many heroes have tried before now. Many have failed.What Greta needs is a hero whose courage and self-belief are greater than himself. She needs Hercufleas.The only problem: he is a flea, no bigger than a raisin. But the smallest person might just have the biggest effect . . .

Something bad has happened to Prince Alexander, the only heir to the mighty Petrossian Empire.Something worse than kidnapping.Something worse than murder.Somehow, the Prince has been miraculously transformed into a fluffy-wuffy kitten.Why has this terrible catastrophe happened?Who are the boy and girl brewing secret potions down in the palace kitchens?And how are they possibly going to avoid getting their heads chopped off?