The 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.

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

Watch as a tiny seed grows through the seasons into a fine pear tree in this beautifully presented first book from Jenny Bowers. This format showcases vibrant artwork with more than twenty-five flaps that you lift to discover creatures hidden in every scene. The charming text makes this the perfect interactive primer to a key scientific topic.

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

Inspired by Klimt’s famous mural The Tree of Life, this dreamily illustrated children’s book tells the story of a magical tree whose fruit saves lives. Painted during the artist’s "golden period," Gustav Klimt’s The Tree of Life has been interpreted in myriad ways. This children’s book deftly incorporates the mysteries and depth of Klimt’s masterpiece into a story for young readers. A young man is given a seed that grows into a beautiful fruit-bearing tree. After tasting the fruit, he can see into the future, including events that will put the lives of others in danger. A king and his lovely princess daughter test the boy’s predictions, and love ensues. As children turn the pages of this exquisite book, they will be drawn into the intricately detailed and boldly colored illustrations, which echo Klimt’s own artistry. The book includes a gorgeous reproduction of The Tree of Life, along with information about Klimt and his work. Designed to encourage children to discover new details each time they open the pages, this is a charming book that will be read over and over again.