Magic Pear Tree

Shen doesn’t like to share anything – especially not his yummy pears. Can a hungry beggar teach him a little kindness? The Chinese folktale specially retold for beginner readers. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme developed with reading experts at the University of Roehampton, specially written for children just starting to read alone. Includes audio. "Crack reading and make confident and enthusiastic readers with this fantastic reading programme." - Julia Eccleshare

In this prequel to the popular Shu-Li chapter books, Shu-Li and Tamara and Shu-Li and Diego (Tradewind), celebrated author Paul Yee brings young readers further adventures of Shu-Li, just as she moves into her new home. She has trouble adjusting to her new neighbourhood but finds surprising help from a magic pear tree in the back garden.

A pear farmer learns that it is better to be kind than greedy.

Another original Pamela Allen book to share with the very young. As with her award-winning Who Sank the Boat?, there is something for all of us to learn from this simple but amusing story of John and Jane's attempts to pick a pear from the pear tree

Esperanza tricks Señor Death but realizes the death is a necessary part of life and alleviates much suffering in the world.

This is a rollicking adventure story set in the eighteenth century when no seafarer was safe from the threat of pirates. Cunningly disguised as a boy young Lucy goes off to sea on a daring quest to rescue her long-lost father who she fears has been kidnapped. On her travels she encounters the fearsome Captain Blacktooth and after many adventures is re-united with her father. Full colour illustrations throughout. Ages 7 - 10.