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The Classic Morpurgo Collection (six novels)
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Six best-loved novels by award-winning author of 'War Horse', brought together in this ebook collection. A perfect introduction to Michael Morpurgo's enthralling storytelling for new readers and a classic collection for fans. 'Kaspar':Kaspar the cat first came to the Savoy Hotel in a basket -- Johnny Trott knows, because he was the one who carried him in. Johnny was a bellboy, you see, and he carried all of Countess Kandinsky's things to her room, including this very special cat! 'Born to Run':When Patrick saves a litter of greyhound puppies from the canal, he convinces his parents to let him keep one. Patrick names his puppy Best Mate, and that's what he becomes...Until one day Best Mate is kidnapped by a greyhound trainer. The trainer's step-daughter loves the greyhound and renames him Bright Eyes. But what will happen when he can't run any more? 'The Butterfly Lion':When Bertie is a...
Out of the Ashes
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
This story is not a story at all. It all happened. On New Year's Day Becky Morley begins to write her diary. By March, her world has changed for ever. Foot-and-mouth disease breaks out on a pig farm hundreds of miles from the Morleys' Devon home, but soon the nightmare is a few fields away. Local sheep are infected and every animal is destroyed. Will the Morleys' flock be next? Will their pedigree dairy herd, the sows with their piglets, and Little Josh, Becky's hand-reared lamb, survive? Or will they be slaughtered too? The waiting and hoping is the most agonizing experience of Becky's life . . .
Outlaw: The Story of Robin Hood
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
When a 12-year-old boy discovers a skull from an upturned grave, he feels suddenly weak. The trees swirl above him and he dreams the life of Robin Hood. Michael Morpurgo transforms a traditional legend into a dramatically suspenseful adventure story with an unforgettable ending. Full color.
An Eagle in the Snow
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
The powerful new novel from the master storyteller - inspired by the true story of one man who might have stopped World War II.
The train is under attacks from German fighters. In the darkness, sheltering in a railway tunnel, the stranger in the carriage with Barney and his mother tells them a story to pass the time.
And what a story. The story of a young man, a young soldier in the trenches of World War I who, on the spur of the moment, had done what he thought was the right thing.
It turned out to have been the worst mistake he ever could have made – a mistake he must put right before it is too late…
Best Mates
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A collection of seven magical and heart-warming animal stories, specially for World Book Day, by the nation's favourite storyteller. From the author who brought you Joey the War Horse, Shadow the dog and Kaspar the cat comes a pocket-sized collection of perfect animal stories – proving that it's not just dogs that are man's best friends... Taken from the length of Michael Morpurgo's career, the tales in this charming book will delight any child who loves animals ... or stories! Readers will return to the best mates in this little book again and again. From dogs to cats, and from horses to dolphins and whales, it's all here in this timeless treasury. Contains the stories: The Silver Swan It's a Dog's Life Snug Didn't We Have a Lovely Time? Dolphin Boy This Morning I Met a Whale Conker
The Ghost of Grania O'Malley
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
People on Clare Island say that the Big Hill is haunted by fearsome pirates who once terrorized Ireland's coasts. Jessie senses that the Hill possess a magic special enough to give her the strength to deal with a crippling disease. That magic takes physical shape when the ghost of pirate queen Grania O'Malley appears to Jessie with a mission--to save the Hill from a greedy prospector.
Meeting Cezanne
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
From the author of War Horse comes a gentle, evocative story of a young city boy’s summer in 1960s rural Provence.
When Yannick learns that he is to stay with his aunt Mathilde and her family in the South of France, he cannot believe his luck. He has rarely been out of Paris, and if the paintings in his mother’s beloved Cézanne book are to be believed, surely Provence is paradise itself. So begins an idyllic month for the young city boy: roaming the gentle hills and rolling valleys and daydreaming about his beautiful cousin Amandine; helping at his aunt and uncle’s bustling village inn; feeling that he has come to the most wonderful place in the world. But one evening the spell is broken when an important local comes for dinner and Yannick accidentally destroys a precious drawing the man leaves behind. How can the devastated Yannick make things right again — and what surprising discoveries might come of it?
Half a Man
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Revered author Michael Morpurgo remembers the post-war Britain of his childhood in this unflinching and deeply poignant tale of the physical and mental scars of war.
From a young age, Michael was both fascinated by and afraid of his grandfather. Grandpa’s ship was torpedoed during the Second World War, leaving him with terrible burns. Every time he came to stay, Michael was warned by his mother that he must not stare, he must not make too much noise, he must not ask Grandpa any questions about his past. As he grows older, Michael stays with his grandfather during the summer holidays, and as he finally learns the story behind Grandpa’s injuries, he gets to know the real man behind the solemn figure from his childhood. Michael can see beyond the burns, and this gives him the power to begin healing some of the scars that have divided his family for so long.
Flamingo Boy
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A stunning new classic from master storyteller Michael Morpurgo for readers of 9+, in the vein of PRIVATE PEACEFUL and THE BUTTERFLY LION
This is a landmark new novel form the nation's favourite storyteller, set in the unique landscape of the Camargue in the South of France during WW2. There, a young autistic boy lives on his parents' farm among the salt flats, and the flamingos that live there. There are lots of things he doesn't understand: but he does know how to heal animals. He loves routine, and music too: and every week he goes to market with his mother, to ride his special horse on the town carousel.
But then the Germans come, with their guns, and take the town. A soldier shoots a flamingo from the sky, and it falls to earth terribly injured. And even worse is to come: the carousel is damaged, the horses broken. For this vulnerable boy, everything is falling apart.
Only there's a kind sergeant among the Germans – a man with a young boy of his own at home, a man who trained as a carpenter. Between them, perhaps boy and man can mend what has been broken – and maybe even the whole town…
Sparrow
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
When Eloise moves to the town where, centuries ago, Joan of Arc fought her greatest battle, her life takes a shocking turn. Like Joan before her, she hears a voicehave never been forgotten.
Not Bad for a Bad Lad
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Everyone thinks this lad is bad, so it’s no surprise when he’s sent to Borstal. But then he starts work in the prison stable and something begins to change . . .
Morpurgo and Foreman weave an inspiring tale about what happens when someone is shown how to follow their dreams. Also includes a fact-packed historical section.
The Wreck of the Zanzibar
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Life on the Scilly Isles in 1907 is bleak and full of hardship. Laura's twin brother, Billy, disappears, and then a storm devastates everything. It seems there's little hope, until the Zanzibar is wrecked on the island's rocks and everything changes . . .
My Friend Walter
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Elizabeth Throckmorton finds herself visited by the ghost of her distant ancestor, Sir Walter Raleigh.
Lucky Button
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A moving historical story inspired by the Foundling Museum, written by acclaimed children's author Michael Morpurgo and illustrated by Michael Foreman.
From award-winning master storyteller Michael Morpurgo, author of the acclaimed War Horse, comes a moving historical story inspired by the Foundling Museum. A lonely boy struggles to cope with school bullies and caring for his mother, until a mysterious encounter reveals life in the Foundling Hospital in the eighteenth century and unravels a touching tale about the power of music. Beautifully illustrated by Kate Greenaway Medal-winning illustrator Michael Foreman.
Billy the Kid
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Billy the Kid is 80 today, and looks back over his life. His adventures include going off to war, living rough as a tramp, and best of all, being picked to play football for Chelsea.
Cool!
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
One day Robbie is hit by a car while running after his dog, Lucky. Unconscious, Robbie lies in hospital, unable to speak, move or eat. But he can hear; he is aware.
His friends and family try desperately to reach him – even Zola, his favourite Chelsea footballer, comes to see him. And still Robbie can’t ‘wake up’. Until one day, against hospital rules, Dad brings Lucky into the hospital. Can Lucky bring Robbie back to life?
War Horse
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A new paperback with a gorgeous cover from the upcoming movie!
In 1914, Joey, a beautiful bay-red foal with a distinctive cross on his nose, is sold to the army and thrust into the midst of the war on the Western Front. With his officer, he charges toward the enemy, witnessing the horror of the battles in France. But even in the desolation of the trenches, Joey's courage touches the soldiers around him and he is able to find warmth and hope. But his heart aches for Albert, the farmer's son he left behind. Will he ever see his true master again?
Toro! Toro!
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Best-selling author Michael Morpurgo turns his storytelling skills to the drama and tragedy of the Spanish Civil War, illustrated by Michael Foreman.
TORO,TORO is the story of a young boy growing up in Andalucia, Spain, on a farm rearing bulls for the bull ring. Antonito hand rears a little black calf and they become firm friends, but the boy doesn't yet understand the fate of the black bulls – the corrida and death. Later, when he learns of the horrors of the bull fight, he frees Paco, the black bull, and rides with him into the hills.There they witness the bombing of their village (it's the year 1936, and the Spanish Civil War has started) and Antonito cannot go back – his family and the farm are destroyed, and Paco has run off, wild with fright. He decides to stay in the hills, where he meets up with the Resistance fighters. During the War, Antonito hears stories round the campfire of the wonderful black bull, who becomes a symbol of freedom for them all. Could this really be Paco? But no-one has ever seen him. After the war, when Antonito is working as a muleteer in the mountains, he falls asleep and dreams of Paco. In the morning, he wakes to see hoof prints on the ground beside him…
A delightful story, full of nostalgia and drama in the author's own inimitable style. Illustrated by Michael Foreman.
The White Horse of Zennor: And Other Stories
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
At the furthest edge of Britain, where the sea gently washes over the land and myths brush against reality, lies Zennor. Since the beginning of time strange and mysterious things have happened there, and these stories highlight all the most haunting and enchanting events. Once a year, on a misty autumn night, there is a pounding of hoof beats as a great white horse comes thundering over the moor in the moonlight. Then there are the old tin miners that Cherry meets when she is cut off by the incoming tide, as well as limping Billy who learns to swim with the seals. The proud Thomas Barbery and the intriguing Mad Miss Marney also add their own stories to this unforgettable collection.
Of Lions and Unicorns
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A collection of short stories and excerpts from Michael Morpurgo's most famous children's novels.
Little Manfred
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
The heart-lifting, heartbreaking new story by Michael Morpurgo, the nation's favourite storyteller. In the Imperial War Museum is a wooden Dachshund, carved by a German prisoner of war for the children of the British family with which he stayed after the fighting ended. This is the story of how it got there! When the Bismarck sinks, one of the only German survivors is taken on board a British ship as a prisoner of war. Sent to live with a host family, Walter must adapt to a new way of life, in the heart of an enemy country. Gradually, though, he finds a friend in ten-year-old Grace. So when the time finally comes to go back to Germany, it's an emotional parting, with Walter leaving Grace with only a carved wooden dog to remember him by. The question is, will Walter and Grace ever meet again? In 1966, with the World Cup coming to Britain, that opportunity may just have come along!
Little Foxes
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Bullied at school, nagged at home, there's only one place Billy feels really alive and happy—in the wilderness by the canal. There he watches over a family of fox cubs as they grow toward maturity. Then his secret is discovered, and the fox family is decimated. Unwanted, unloved, Billy and the one surviving fox cub run for their lives. Michael Morpurgo’s compassionate story finds hope—and finally happiness—in the life of a vulnerable child, with beautifully detailed observations of wildlife.
From Hereabout Hill
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
'From Hereabout Hill' is a collection of Michael Morpurgo's short stories. Meet a ghost, enter the horrors of war, engross yourself in a love story, travel to ancient times. Whatever your mood, there's a story to suit.
Kaspar the Titanic Cat
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
When kaspar the cat first arrived at London’s Savoy Hotel, it was Johnny Trott who carried him in. After all, Johnny was a bellboy and was responsible for all of Countess Kandinsky’s things— including Kaspar. But when tragedy befalls the Countess during her stay, Kaspar becomes more than Johnny’s responsibility: Kaspar is Johnny’s new cat, and his new best friend.
And when Kaspar and Johnny meet Lizziebeth, a spirited young heiress, they find themselves journeying across the Atlantic with Lizziebeth’s family on England’s newest and most magnificent ship, the Titanic. Because there is always adventure in the air with a cat like Kaspar around. After all, he’s Kaspar Kandinsky, Prince of Cats, a Londoner and a New Yorker and, as far as anyone knows, the only cat to survive the sinking of the Titanic. . . .
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Think yourself back in years, my friends. . . .It's New Year's Eve in Camelot, where King Arthur, Queen Guinevere, and all their good Knights wait breathlessly for an extravagant feast to begin. Suddenly, a strange and frightening Knight bursts into the hall—a giant of a man, green from head to toe, who mockingly challenges the Court to a shocking game. Only the chivalrous Sir Gawain dares to take on the hideous Green Knight. But over the unexpected course of his test, will Gawain prove as brave and honest as he'd like to believe? Welcome to a medieval world full of sword fights and shape-shifting, monsters and magic, and timeless characters both gallant and wonderfully human. Written anonymously in the fourteenth century, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is retold in its entirety by Michael Morpurgo in a lively and accessible narration that captures all the tale's drama and humor. Vivid illustrations by the celebrated Michael Foreman infuse this classic tale with the...
Such Stuff: A Story-Maker's Inspiration
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
This insightful collection is the perfect gift for Michael Morpurgo fans who want to understand how writing works and where stories begin. Revealing essays from Michael about more than twenty of his most popular novels are combined with key extracts from his books along with historical context and illuminating background information from Michael’s brother Mark. Stunning illustrations from Michael Foreman, photographs and facsimiles complete the immersive experience.
The Puffin Keeper
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Penguin Readers is an ELT graded reader series. Please note that the eBook edition does NOT include access to the audio edition and digital book. Written for learners of English as a foreign language, each title includes carefully adapted text, new illustrations and language learning exercises.Titles include popular classics, exciting contemporary fiction, and thought-provoking non-fiction, introducing language learners to bestselling authors and compelling content.The eight levels of Penguin Readers follow the Common European Framework of Reference for language learning (CEFR). Exercises at the back of each Reader help language learners to practise grammar, vocabulary, and key exam skills. Before, during and after-reading questions test readers' story comprehension and develop vocabulary.The Puffin Keeper, a Level 2 Reader, is A1+ in the CEFR framework. Sentences contain a maximum of two clauses, introducing the future...
Dear Olly
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A moving story of a brother, a sister and a swallow, and how all are in some way victims of the horrors of landmines.Olly’s brother Matt wants to go and work with children who have been made orphans, through war, in Africa. He wants to be a clown and make them laugh. His mother and sister want him to stay in England and go to university.Hero, a swallow, has a journey to make too. He must fly to Africa for the winter to join all the other swallows. His journey is difficult and fraught with danger.Three separate stories are woven into one powerful and moving novel whose central theme not only exposes the horrors of war and of landmines, but also the endurance of the human spirit.
Michael divides his time between his writing and running Farms for City Children, a charity which each year takes up to 3,000 children to a working farm for a week. Michael and his wife Clare were awarded MBEs this year for their work with the charity. Before the first farm opened 22 years ago, Morpurgo was a teacher and his knowledge of children’s experiences, plus his experience of Farms enrich his writing enormously.Michael Morpurgo has won the Whitbread Children’s Book Award, and the Smarties Book Prize.
Private Peaceful
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Longer novels from Children's Laureate Michael Morpurgo are always a particular treat, and Private Peaceful is no exception. Tragic, surprising and engaging in equal measures, Morpurgo's novel charts both the childhood of young Thomas Peaceful in the early years of the 20th century, and his eventual underage enlistment in the British army to help fight the First World War.
It is, above all, a poignant story of war and about all of its many life-changing effects on those involved--also the brutality of the commanding regimes and the relentless squalor of trench warfare. It's not for the squeamish--Morpurgo tells it like it was and his honest insight is on every page for all to appreciate.
"Tommo" Peaceful is recalling his childhood from those terrible battlefields. He remembers his big brother Charlie taking him to his first day of school, the death of his father, his mum working hard to keep a roof over their heads and food on their table. He remembers his brother Joe, who some called simple, but who to Tommo was very special. He also recalls the only girl in his life, Molly, and how Charlie somehow took her away from him. But as the World turned to War, he had to grow up fast. Together Charlie and Tommo enlist and are sent to France, almost immediately, to what could only be described as pure hell on Earth. Bullets, bombs, death. Shells, noise, dirt. Disease, rats, stench. Charlie and Tommo fight for their lives and to stay together--facing certain death in the face every time they try to advance the British lines.
Morpurgo rattles through his narrative at some speed, gracefully capturing both the horror of war and the ecstasy of life. The ending is shocking and memorable. This is difficult, emotionally draining but highly recommended reading. (Recommended for ages 10 and over.) --John McLay
The Dancing Bear
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A gentle and deeply moving story of a young girl and her bear, told with great charm by a master storyteller.High in the mountains, in a tiny village, an abandoned bear cub is adopted by a lonely orphan child. Soon they are inseparable, beloved by the whole village – safe, until the arrival of a glamorous film crew who need a dancing bear…
An Elephant in the Garden
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
With Lizzie’s father fighting in World War II, her mother takes on the job of a zoo keeper to provide for her family. Lizzie, her mother, and her eight-year-old brother Karli have become especially attached to an orphaned elephant named Marlene. The bombing of Dresden is imminent and soon, so the zoo director explains that as a precautionary measure all the animals must be destroyed so that they’re not running wild through the city. Lizzie’s mother persuades the director to allow Marlene, the elephant, to come stay in the family’s garden.
As predicted, Dresden is bombed, and the family, including Marlene, is forced from the city. Lizzie and her family aren’t alone. Thousands of Dresden residents are fleeing to find somewhere safe to stay. Lizzie’s mother has to find a different route out of the city to keep the elephant and the children safe from harm. Once they reach the abandoned home of their relatives, they come across Peter, a Canadian navigator who, by putting himself at risk of capture to save the family, gains their trust.
This unlikely grouping of family, elephant, and enemy turned ally come together beautifully to illustrate the importance of love, resolve, and hope.
The Mozart Question
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
When cub reporter Lesley is sent to Venice to interview a world-renowned violinist, the journalist is told she can ask Paolo Levi anything about his life and career as a musician, but on no account must she ask him the Mozart question. Paolo has finally realised he must reveal the truth.
Boy Giant
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A stunning new story of hope, humanity and high-seas adventure for children and adults everywhere from Sir Michael Morpurgo, the nation's favourite storyteller and multi-million copy bestselling author of WAR HORSE. "We were the truth of our own story.Me, and the two tiny people on my shoulder, in the middle of the sea..." War has forced Omar and his mother to leave their home in Afghanistan and venture across the sea to Europe. When their boat sinks, and Omar finds himself alone, with no hope of rescue, it seems as if his story has come to an end. But it is only just beginning. Because in the end, a little hope makes a big difference... A thrilling adventure inspired by the classic story of Gulliver's Travels, this is also a gripping modern narrative of rescue and refuge, from a writer at the height of his powers. A book about breaking down walls, at a time when many are trying to build them. And a timeless reminder of humanity's infinite capacity for good... even when those...
Kensuke's Kingdom
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
When Michael is washed up on an island in the Pacific after falling from his parent's yacht, the Peggy Sue, he struggles to survive on his own. But he soon realises there is someone close by, someone who is watching over him and helping him to stay alive. Following a close-run battle between life and death after being stung by a poisonous jelly fish, the mysterious someone--Kensuke--allows Michael into his world and they become friends, teaching and learning from each other, until the day of separation becomes inevitable.
Morpurgo here spins a yarn which gently captures the adventurous elements one would expect from a desert-island tale, but the real strength lies in the poignant and subtle observations of friendship, trust and, ultimately, humanity.
Beautifully illustrated by Michael Foreman, Kensuke's Kingdom is a stylish, deceptively simple and magical book that will effortlessly capture the heart and imagination of anyone who reads it, ensuring that Morpurgo continues to stand tall amid the ranks of classic children's authors. (Ages 9 and over) --Susan Harrison
The Giant's Necklace
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
It all began with a necklace, made of glistening pink cowrie shells. A long, long necklace that had taken Cherry days – weeks – of careful, painstaking work. It was nearly complete, and Cherry was determined not only that it would be the longest necklace she had ever made, but that it would be fit for a giant! But the end of the summer holidays had arrived. "You've only got today, Cherry," said her mother. "Just today, that's all." Cherry didn't mind, a day would be enough – she only needed a few more shells after all. So, amidst the taunts of her older brothers, she set out to search for them. Then the clouds grew dark and the waves grew large, and as the storm blew in, Cherry realized, to her horror, that she was cut off from the shore. From then on, events began to take a decidedly dark turn. And one from which there was no turning back...
Times of War Collection
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Private Peaceful
An Elephant in the Garden
Shadow
War Stories
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Specially commissioned by Michael Morpurgo to mark the 60th anniversary of VE day, this deeply moving collection features stories of war from the most well-loved voices in children's literature: Michelle Magorian, Celia Rees, George Layton, Robert Westall, Joan Aiken, Eva Ibbotson and Geraldine McCaughrean feature alongside other top children's authors.From World War II to the Crusades, 1970s Beirut to the Falklands, these vivid stories explore wars throughout history. They examine not only the immediate consequences of war, but also what happens after the fighting is over. Waiting for Peace: War Stories was originally published as War: Stories of Conflict.
The Day the World Stopped Turning
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Michael Morpurgo's The Day the World Stopped Turning is a middle-grade novel about an extraordinary boy who sees the world differently.In the unique landscape of the Camargue (France) during World War II, Lorenzo lives among the salt flats and the flamingos. There are lots of things he doesn't understand–but he does know how to heal animals, how to talk to them; the flamingos especially. He loves routine, and music too: and every week he goes to market with his mother. It's there he meets Kezia, a Roma girl, who helps her parents run their carousel–and who shows him how to ride the wooden horse as the music plays. But then the German soldiers come, with their guns. Everything is threatened, everything is falling apart: the carousel, Kezia and her family, even Lorenzo's beloved flamingos. Yet there are kind people even among soldiers, and there is always hope. . .
The Kites Are Flying
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
TV reporter Morpurgo visited the West Bank and befriended a Palestinian boy named Said. Said does not speak. He makes kites. Morpurgo's poignant account of the experience about how Palestinian and Jewish children live with the Wall is a message of dreams for peace and hope for all children.
Black Queen
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
The 'Black Queen' is what Billy calls his shadowy next-door neighbour. She always wears a black cloak and a wide-brimmed black hat. She lurks about her garden, alone except for her black cat. Scarily for Billy, the Black Queen befriends him and asks him to look after her cat while she's away. Billy can't resist the opportunity to peek inside her house. There are chessboards scattered everywhere. Who is the Black Queen and what sort of game is she playing? Billy thinks he knows...
The Nine Lives of Montezuma
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Michael Morpurgo's yarn about the dangerous, exciting life of a farmyard cat from fiery kitten to tired old Tom. Age group 8+.
Only Remembered
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Published to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War, this beautiful anthology collects favourite extracts, poems and images from some of the UK’s leading cultural, political and literary figures.
Poems, short stories, personal letters, newspaper articles, scripts, photographs and paintings are just some of the elements of this astonishing collection, with cover and artwork by renowned illustrator, Ian Beck.
Among the many contributors are Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall, Sir Andrew Motion, Miranda Hart, Dame Jacqueline Wilson, Anthony Horowitz, Eoin Colfer, Antony Beevor, Emma Thompson, David Almond, Dr Rowan Williams, Richard Curtis, Joanna Lumley, Raymond Briggs, Shami Chakrabarti and Sir Tony Robinson.
Royalties from the publication will be spilt between the Royal British Legion and projects for soldiers' children and families at SSAFA.
Beowulf
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
The acclaimed author and illustrator of SIR GAWAIN AND THE GREEN KNIGHT return with an exhilarating edition of Britain's oldest epic.
Long ago there was a Scandinavian warrior who fought three evils so powerful they could destroy whole kingdoms. Standing head and shoulders above his comrades, Beowulf single-handedly saves the land of the Danes from a merciless ogre named Grendel and then from his sea-hag mother. But it is his third terrible battle, with the death-dragon of the deep, in which he truly meets his match. Lovers of heroes, monsters, and the drama of battle will find this retelling as enthralling as it is tragic.
Singing for Mrs Pettigrew: A Story Maker's Journey
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
This volume contains short stories, essays and commentaries to illuminate the craft of storytelling. Analyzing various aspects of writing - character, plot, sources and inspiration, retelling and biography - this collection is suitable for those who loves great stories and wants to know more about the art of telling tales.
Alone on a Wide Wide Sea
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
How far would you go to find yourself? This is the lyrical, life-affirming new novel from Michael Morpurgo.
When orphaned Arthur Hobhouse is shipped to Australia after World War II he loses his sister, his country and everything he knows. The coming years will test him to his limits, as he endures mistreatment, neglect and forced labour in the Australian outback. But Arthur is also saved, again and again, by his love of the sea. And when he meets a nurse whose father owns a boat-building business, all the pieces of his broken life come together.
Now, at the end of his life, Arthur has built a special boat for his daughter Allie, whose love of the sea is as strong and as vital as her father’s. Now Allie has a boat that will take her to England solo, across the world’s roughest seas, in search of her father’s long-lost sister. Will the threads of Arthur’s life finally come together?
Listen to the Moon
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
The stunning new novel of World War One from Michael Morpurgo, the nation’s favourite storyteller and multi-million copy bestseller. May, 1915. Alfie and his fisherman father find a girl on an uninhabited island in the Scillies - injured, thirsty, lost…and with absolutely no memory of who she is, or how she came to be there. She can say only one word: Lucy. Where has she come from? Is she a mermaid, the victim of a German U-boat, or even - as some islanders suggest - a German spy…? Only one thing is for sure: she loves music and moonlight, and it is when she listens to the gramophone that the glimmers of the girl she once was begin to appear. WW1 is raging, suspicion and fear are growing, and Alfie and Lucy are ever more under threat. But as we begin to see the story of Merry, a girl boarding a great ship for a perilous journey across the ocean, another melody enters the great symphony - and the music begins to resolve…A beautiful tour de force of family, love, war and forgiveness, this is a major new novel from the author of PRIVATE PEACEFUL - in which what was once lost may sometimes be found, washed up again on the shore…
Mr Skip
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Jackie dreams of having a horse of her own, one that’ll be the fastest on the estate, the fastest in all Ireland and the fastest in the world. Mum dreams of a little cottage in the country for her and Jackie to live in. What they get is a garden gnome that Jackie finds in a rubbish skip; one she lovingly repairs and paints; a gnome she calls Mr Skip. And Jackie soon discovers that with Mr Skip, anything is possible.
The King in the Forest
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
As a boy, Tod saves the small white fawn from certain death. They grow up together but when the fine stag leaves, Tod could never have predicted that he would become so powerful that he becomes King. And no kingdom can have two kings.
Muck and Magic
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A moving countryside tale about the power of friendship and creativity from the nation's favourite children's author.Bonny has always wanted to be a top cyclist, maybe even a future Olympic champion like her hero, Laura Trott. When she gets a new racing bike for her birthday, she heads out into the Dales like always, speeding along. But when she's distracted by some cheeky horses, she comes off her bike and discovers that the horses belong to a quiet woman who has an amazing collection of statues on her lawn – a buffalo, a horse lying down, even a man running. Gradually, Bonny gets to know Lizzie and forms a special bond with her horse, Merry, when she is given a job at Lizzie's farm. Bonny is even introduced to a life-sized sculpture of Merry in Lizzie's studio and is allowed to pose as its rider, a completely magical experience. She learns from Lizzie that a true gift is never to be wasted, and if you "breath the world in deep", you can do anything.
Twist of Gold
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Sean and Annie have one chance to escape the potato famine in Ireland, and after surviving a shipwreck they land safely in America in search for their father. But their new land is one of hardship and they live in poverty on the streets of Boston. However, their adventure is just beginning. After living aboard a steamboat they then join pioneers traveling across the prairies. Their music and dancing bring joy to all they meet, but their family "torc"—a golden necklace—brings both blessings and curses, and thieves prowl to get hold of it. Annie and Sean must protect their torc as they search for their father: their family’s survival depends on it.
The Last Wolf
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Michael Morpurgo has created a sweeping and dramatic story in the time of Bonnie Prince Charlie. This spellbinding tale is complemented perfectly by Michael Foreman's illustrations.
Robbie McLeod and a wolf cub, both orphaned, venture far from their birthplace, a land of rebellious fighters and vicious redcoats. There is little constancy in Robbie's adventurous life, save for the companionship of his wolf. But when at last Robbie finds a place where he can peacefully make his home, he knows in his heart that the wolf must find his own natural home too . . .
The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A heart-warming tale of courage and warmth, set against the backdrop of the second world war, about an abandoned village, a lifelong friendship and one very adventurous cat!
‘Classic Morpurgo brilliance’ – Publishing News
"Something's up. Something big too, very big. At school, in the village, whoever you meet, it's all anyone talks about. It's like a sudden curse has come down on us all. It makes me wonder if we'll ever see the sun again."
It's 1943, and Lily Tregenze lives on a farm, in the idyllic seaside village of Slapton. Apart from her father being away, and the 'townie' evacuees at school, her life is scarcely touched by the war. Until one day, Lily and her family, along with 3000 other villagers, are told to move out of their homes – lock, stock and barrel.
Soon, the whole area is out of bounds, as the Allied forces practise their landings for D-day, preparing to invade France. But Tips, Lily's adored cat, has other ideas – barbed wire and keep-out signs mean nothing to her, nor does the danger of guns and bombs. Frantic to find her, Lily makes friends with two young American soldiers, who promise to help her. But will she ever see her cat again? Lily decides to cross the wire into the danger zone to look for Tips herself…
Now, many years later, as Michael is reading his Grandma Lily's diary, he learns about The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips – and wonders how one adventurous cat could still affect their lives sixty years later.
Escape From Shangri-La
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
When the strange man who has been watching their house turns out to be the grandfather she has never seen, eleven-year-old Cessie couldn't be happier -- at first sight. But then he has a stroke and actually has to come live with them. Popsicle, as she calls him, is impossible to live with: moody, forgetful, clumsy. Only Cessie loves him and believes in him. So when he is sent off to a home for the elderly, she helps him escape. And plays first mate to him on a dramatic nighttime boat trip across the English channel to unravel a secret only the two of them know. This Morpurgo story makes the reader want to cheer -- young people, the elderly, and courage at any age.
Cockadoodle-Doo, Mr Sultana!
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A rich and greedy sultan meets his match in a VERY cheeky little red roosterâ?¦ Hilariously wacky tale by bestselling author of War Horse. The rich and greedy sultan loves his jewels more than anything, so when he loses a diamond button he is furious! Especially as a naughty little red rooster seems determined to keep itâ?¦ A marvellously funny tale by master storyteller, Michael Morpurgo.
A Medal for Leroy Michael Morpurgo
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Inspired by the true story of Walter Tull, the first black officer in the British army. A new novel about identity and loss by bestselling award-winning author of WAR HORSE. Michael doesn’t remember his father, an RAF pilot lost in the war. And his French mother, heartbroken and passionate, doesn’t like to talk about her husband. But then Auntie Snowdrop gives Michael a medal, followed by a photograph, which begin to reveal a hidden history. A story of love and loss. A story that will change everything – and reveal to Michael who he really is…
The Fox and the Ghost King
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A delightful tale of victory against all odds from master storyteller, Michael Morpurgo, lavishly illustrated by Michael Foreman.
“Every fox in the whole town, in the whole country just about, is a football fan… And we all have an impossible dream.”
In a cosy den under a garden shed lives a family of foxes. They love to watch football – all foxes do. But their favourite team keeps losing and losing, and it seems like things will never look up.
That is, until Daddy Fox finds the ghost of a king, buried underneath a car park. A king who wishes only to be free.
“Release me,” says the Ghost King, “and I can do anything. Just tell me your greatest wish.”
For these football-loving foxes, might everything be about to change…?
Singing for Mrs. Pettigrew
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
This collection by the 2003–2005 Children's Laureate, Michael Morpurgo, contains short stories, essays and commentaries to illuminate the craft of storytelling. Analyzing all aspects of writing – character, plot, sources and inspiration, retelling and biography – it is perfect for anyone, young or old, who loves great stories and wants to know more about the art of telling tales.
Magic Beans: A Handful of Fairytales From the Storybag
Jacqueline Wilson, Philip Pullman, Michael Morpurgo
Magic beans. Sow them. Plant them. Watch children grow. 'If you are a dreamer, come in. If you are a dreamer, a wisher, a liar, a hoper, a prayer, a magic-bean-buyer. If you're a pretender, come sit by my fire, for we have some flax-golden tales to spin. Come in! Come in!' - Shel Silverstein, Poet Each and every one of the stories in this anthology is a magic bean: a wondrous tale that will capture your imagination. Prepare to be dazzled by Rapunzel's golden tresses. Prepare to be moved by the suffering of the Little Mermaid. Prepare to laugh yourself silly as 'Mr Sultana' struggles to get the better of a little red rooster! Lovingly crafted by the finest authors and illustrators, these 'magic beans' will delight, thrill and thoroughly entertain.
Michael Morpurgo
Maggie Fergusson
Discover the true life story of favourite storyteller Michael Morpurgo -- a biography specially edited for children, and featuring seven original Morpurgo stories. We are enchanted by Michael Morpurgo's amazing stories like 'Private Peaceful', 'Born to Run' and 'Kensuke's Kingdom'. And with big screen adaptations of his novels such as 'War Horse' being made into film adaptations by Steven Spielberg, it's no surprise that he's our nation's number one favourite storyteller. But what about the real life story of Michael Morpurgo...? How did a boy supremely uninterested in books, who dreamed of becoming an army officer, become a bestselling author and Children's Laureate? What stories in Michael's own life inspired him to write more than a hundred books for children? In a unique collaboration, Maggie Fergusson and Michael himself explore his life through biography and stories. This is a specially abridged...
Our Jacko
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
A deeply personal and tender story of war, peace and those who are left behind. One hundred years after the war to end all wars, Jacko's descendants discover his notebook and the untold stories tucked in its pages."This war is a nightmare that one day I shall wake from and then forget. And if I don't wake, then you shall never know. I don't want you ever to know."No one seems to know where the scruffy tin hat came from – just that it is very old, from some war or other long ago. To young Michael and his family it has its uses today: as a child's toy, a feeding bowl for the hens, a hanging basket... Then Michael discovers that it belonged to his great-great-grandfather, "Our Jacko", who lost his life at Ypres in 1915. As the boy digs deeper, he finds the young soldier's diary and learns more about his forgotten ancestor – husband, father, poet, actor – who died so tragically young. And it becomes clear exactly how Our Jacko should be...
The White Horse of Zennor
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
At the furthest edge of Britain where the sea gently washes over the land and myths brush against reality, lies Zennor. Set in a churchtown where men become beasts and ghosts roam freely, are haunting and unforgettable tales where magic lies around every corner.
A Medal for Leroy
Michael Morpurgo
Children's Books / Poetry / Historical Fiction
Inspired by the true story of Walter Tull, the first black officer in the British army. A new novel about identity and loss by bestselling award-winning author of WAR HORSE. Michael doesn’t remember his father, an RAF pilot lost in the war. And his French mother, heartbroken and passionate, doesn’t like to talk about her husband. But then Auntie Snowdrop gives Michael a medal, followed by a photograph, which begin to reveal a hidden history. A story of love and loss. A story that will change everything – and reveal to Michael who he really is…
