Crime | Fantasy | Humour | Life Stories | Modern Life | Other Times | Science Fiction
Seen on screen | Short Stories | Sport | Supernatural & horror | Thrillers
Mark Haddon The curious incident of the dog in the night-time (Crime)
Lian Hearn Across the nightingale floor (Fantasy)
Malorie Blackman Noughts & crosses (Modern life)
Melvyn Burgess Junk (Modern life)
David Klass You don't know me (Modern life)
Nick McDonell Twelve (Modern life)
Douglas Adams The hitch-hiker's guide to the galaxy (Science fiction)
Melvyn Burgess Bloodtide (Science fiction)
John Wyndham The day of the triffids (Science fiction)
Joe Simpson Touching the void (Sport)
Anne Cassidy Looking for JJ (Thrillers)
Mal Peet Tamar (Other times)
Berne, Suzanne A crime in the neighbourhood
The dark tale of a murdered boy, a runaway husband and a family
spinning out of control, observed and narrated by 10-year-old Marsha. An unusual and worthwhile read.
Brooks, Kevin Martyn Pig
Martyn Pig's life is a mess - his mum's left home and his dad is a hopeless drunk. But just when things can't get any worse he accidentally kills his dad. Thankfully, a chink of light appears in the shape of new girlfriend, Alex, and she and Martyn plot their escape from the crisis. A brilliant read with a gut-wrenching twist. By the same author try The Road of the Dead a disturbing and violent story of two very different brothers seeking the murderer of their sister in a remote village on Dartmoor. Not for the faint-hearted but a gripping read. Also try Black Rabbit Summer in which sixteen-year-old Pete agrees to meet up with some old friends and head off down to the visiting fun fair one sultry night in the height of summer. So begins a night of terror for Pete as friends become enemies and his best friend goes missing and another girl is found dead in the woods. Gripping and terrifying.
Chandler, Raymond The big sleep
A masterful debut from America's foremost crime writer and one of Dulwich College's most famous old boys. The style of writing and
characterisation is highly original whilst the intricacies of the plot will leave you reeling. A masterpiece.
Christie, Agatha Death on the Nile
On a tranquil cruise along the Nile a beautiful young woman is shot through the head. Hercule Poirot must use all his powers of deduction to solve a case in which nothing is quite as it first seems.
Dexter, Colin Last bus to Woodstock
The first Morse novel introduces us to the surly Inspector and his partner Sergeant Lewis as they attempt to solve the brutal murder of Sylvia Kaye. Play spot the difference between the characters as revealed in the novel to those seen on television.
Donnelly, Jennifer A gathering light
A young girl working at a hotel is asked by one of the guests to burn some letters. The next day the guest is found drowned in a nearby lake and the hunt is on for her killer. After a slow start this turns into a haunting and gripping read. Winner of the Carnegie Medal.
Greene, Graham Brighton rock
A skilful and masterfully written tale of crime and conscience in the dark underworld of 1930s Brighton.
Grisham, John The firm
Having qualified third in his class at Harvard Mitch is sought by law firms all over America. The firm he chooses is small, but well-respected, and pays him beyond his wildest dreams. But then the nightmares begin - secret files, bugs in the bedroom, colleagues' mysterious deaths and mob money.
Haddon, Mark The curious incident of the dog in the night-time
When a neighbour’s dog is found impaled on a garden fork, autistic Christopher sets about investigating the crime with the rigour of Sherlock Holmes. His carefully constructed world falls apart in a novel of immense humour and pathos.
James, P D A taste for death
An alcoholic tramp and a recently resigned government minister are found dead in a dingy church vestry. Inspector Dalgliesh is sent to investigate in a brilliantly plotted detective novel full of psychology and with a surprising ending.
King, Stephen Misery
A famous author is pulled out of his wrecked car and nursed back to health by his Number One Fan. In return he must write her a novel and if it is not to her liking she will be cross - very cross - and will inflict her revenge…This is one of King's shorter novels and is a great introduction to his magnificent writing.
Leonard, Elmore Get Shorty
Wise-guy debt collector Chili Palmer tries to sell his story to Hollywood in this hilarious tale of the mob and the movies. Leonard is the master of the modern underworld novel mixing it with sustained black humour to
produce an American classic.
Martin, Andrew The bobby dazzlers
This Yorkshire-based tale of an attempted heist mixes modern life, crime and very black humour with a cast of the most eclectic and bizarre
criminals in modern fiction.
Rankin, Ian Knots & crosses
The first Rebus novel in which the hard living detective sergeant is faced with a brutal case of abduction and murder.
Smith, Alexander McCall The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency
If Miss Marple were fat and jolly and lived in Botswana, you'd have Precious Ramotswe. An enormously engaging heroine, she sells her late father's cattle to set up a detective agency, and embarks on a series of pleasingly successful cases.
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FANTASY
Brooks, Terry The Shannara series
For fantasy fans who can't get enough of the Lord of the Rings, Terry Brooks's
Shannara series will keep you going for months to come as elves, dwarves and men fight against the forces of evil.
Canavan, Trudi The Magicians’ Guild,
The Novice,
The High Lord
"Each year the magicians of Imardin gather to purge the city streets of vagrants, urchins and miscreants. Masters of the disciplines of magic, they know that no one can oppose them. But their protective shield is not as impenetrable as they believe." A young girl, among the urchins swept up in the massive cleanup, unwittingly uses magic to throw a stone through the magicians' shield. She embarks upon a huge run from the magicians, some of whom want her dead, others who want her trained and under their control...
Colfer, Eoin Airman
Another classic from the creator of Artemis Fowl. Imprisoned for a crime that he didn’t commit, fourteen-year-old Conor must use all of his ingenuity to escape and free his family and the girl he loves from the evil Hugo Bonvilain who is plotting to take control of his homeland. A mixture of fantasy and real-life makes this an engrossing read.
Croggon, Alison The Pellinor series
This compelling fantasy saga opens in The Gift with orphan and slave, Maerad, discovering that she possesses a powerful gift that marks her as a member of the School of Pellinor. Together with her mentor, Cadvan, they embark on a terrifying quest that continues in The Riddle and The Crow and climaxes in The Singing.
Eddings, David Guardians of the west (Mallorean series)
Pawn of prophecy (Belgariad series)
"Long ago, so the Storyteller claimed, the evil God Torak sought dominion and drove men and Gods to war. But Belgarath the Sorcerer led men to reclaim the Orb that protected men of the West. So long as it lay at Riva, the prophecy went, men would be safe." Classic fantasy novels and enough in each series to keep you going for months!
Feist, Raymond E Riftwar Trilogy - Magician, Silverthorn and
A Darkness at Sethanon
This superb fantasy series has all the hallmarks of traditional fantasy: sword-toting heroes, magic-wielding heroes, sly, sneaky heroes and more. But Feist's series explores new aspects of the genre his writing has epic scope and vivid imagination. The Riftwar trilogy tells the story of Pug, and his friend Tomas, who find a ship upon the world of Midkemia, that is not of this world…
Feist, Raymond E. & Wurts, Janny Daughter of the Empire trilogy
Following on from The Riftwar trilogy, Daughter of the Empire tells of the alien world of Kelewan, and how Mara of the Acoma, brought to power in her house at an early age, must enter into the deadly politics of "the game." The trilogy continues with Servant of the Empire and Mistress of the Empire.
Goodkind, Terry The Sword of Truth series
This series is perhaps more traditional, but still completely gripping. The story begins with Wizard's First Rule and continues with Stone of Tears and Blood of the Fold. We read about Richard, a simple woods guide, who is suddenly brought into the huge responsibility of being the "seeker of truth", wielding the hugely powerful "sword of truth". The plot is masterfully woven, with twists and turns nobody could even think of.
Hearn, Lian Across the nightingale floor
Set in an imaginary, ancient Japanese society dominated by warring clans, this is a story of a boy who is suddenly plucked from his life in a remote and peaceful village to find himself a pawn in a political scheme, filled with treacherous warlords, rivalry and the intensity of first love.
Hill, Stuart The Icemark Chronicles
These superb chronicles are set in the tiny land, the Icemark, inhabited by simple, brave folk, under the threat of the Polypontian Empire. This Roman-like force, led by the ruthless general Scipio Bellorum, is determined to take over most of the continent. The Icemark seems like a tiny foe, but their new queen, Thirrin, is not going to be easily subdued. Read as she sets out on a desperate quest for allies, and as she tries to make diplomatic relations with her country's former enemies...
Hobb, Robin The Farseer trilogy
This remarkable trilogy (Assassin's Apprentice, Royal Assassin and Assassin's Quest) keeps you hooked right from the beginning, but surprisingly is not full of blood and gore. We follow the upbringing of Fitz, a royal bastard, who has to be put to work in the palace. And so, he finds himself in an apprenticeship with the mysterious Royal Assassin, Chade.
Jarvis, Robin Deathscent
In a strangely familiar Britain consisting of ninety-three individual 'blessed isles' floating in the deep darkness — a place with no animals and little technology — comes a stranger, Brindle. No one knows where he's from, or how he's arrived. But he brings strange implements and practices, and he's about to change things forever...
Jordan, Robert The wheel of time series
The usual fantasy elements of warrior races, reluctant heroes and an all-powerful evil force that must be destroyed before an apocalyptic end are taken to a new level in the hands of Robert Jordan who displays a sustained brilliance in his imagination and the quality of his writing. The series originally began with The Eye of the World but a prequel, New spring, should be read first.
LeGuin, Ursula The Wizard of Earthsea
For those who have been engrossed by Potter, Pullman and Tolkien, the world created in the Earthsea quartet of novels is a must to visit next.
Ness, Patrick The Knife of Never Letting Go
Winner of numerous awards, this is a gripping tale of Todd fleeing from his old life, facing death at every turn from his pursuers as he aims to reach safety. Throw in hillbilly settlers, alien life forms and a mysterious virus called “noise” that has infected almost everyone and means that everyone can hear your thoughts and the result is a thrilling read. With questions left unanswered at the end, follow it up with the sequel The Ask and the Answer.
Nicholson, William The wind singer
First in an incredible fantasy trilogy featuring the quest of the Manth people as they search for a new homeland after the destruction of their city.
Nix, Garth The Old kingdom trilogy
A spellbinding trilogy of enormous scope and imagination that begins with Sabriel. The Old Kingdom is under threat from a powerful league of necromancers who plan to unleash the Destroyer and it comes down to Second Assistant Librarian Lirael to find the clue that will defeat the ultimate evil. A stunning epic which imparts a number of lessons not least of which is to never under-estimate a librarian!
Paolini, Christopher Eragon
In this first book in the Inheritance series, Eragon is more than surprised when a dragon hatches from the polished blue stone he finds. But even this is nothing compared to the subsequent discovery that he is now the first dragon hunter and must embark on a quest to save the Empire. An epic adventure ensues that is remarkable in its originality and readability.
Peake, Mervyn Gormenghast
The first in Mervyn Peake's Gormenghast trilogy is one of the most
distinctive, absorbing and strange books ever written, with a brilliant
profusion of characters and vivid detail.
Pratchett, Terry The colour of magic
First in the incredibly entertaining, amusing and popular Discworld series, which has now grown to more than 20 books. This is where it all starts — with the tourist Twoflower and his hapless wizard guide, Rincewind. Pratchett spoofs fantasy clichés — and everything else he can think of — while marshalling a profusion of characters through a madcap adventure.
Reeve, Philip The Hungry City Chronicles
The Hungry City Chronicles is perhaps the only series that truly falls into the category of Sci Fi/Fantasy. They envisage a post-nuclear holocaust, where all the world's national resources have been used up. War to scavenge and steal resources can't be brought to the cities - the cities have been ripped from the earth, and layers have been stacked on top of one another, and placed on enormous tracks to turn them into monstrous "Traction Cities" which prey upon other cities, literally devouring them. The series starts in London with Mortal Engines and continues with Predator's Gold, Infernal Devices and A Darkling Plain.
Stroud, Jonathan The Bartimaeus trilogy
Jonathan Stroud has made magic slot magnificently into the modern world. Read the witty, sarcastic footnotes of the 5,000 year old djinni, Bartimaeus, and the story of Nathaniel, the superb, but oppressed apprentice of a mediocre wizard in The Amulet of Samarkand, The Golem's Eye and Ptolemy's Gate.
Wooding, Chris The haunting of Alaizabel Cray
A spine-tingling tale of monsters and murder in the dark streets of a London very different to our own.
Blacker, Terence Boy2Girl
“One of the funniest books you will ever read, a classic story of chaos, confusion and cross-dressing”.
Bowman, W. E. The ascent of Rum Doodle
A mountaineering spoof, and “one of the funniest books you will ever read”, according to...
Bryson, Bill Notes from a small island
The hilarious account of a journey around Britain. Guaranteed to make you laugh out loud.
Elton, Ben Dead famous
Agatha Christie meets Big Brother - in this hilarious parody of reality TV, the unexpected happens when one of the housemates is murdered on day 27. The murder is fiendish in its ingenuity, and the ending wonderfully over the top.
Fry, Stephen The hippopotamus
Fry is at his witty best in this story of a cantankerous journalist fired from his job and seeking recuperation at the mysterious Swafford Hall. Intelligent and wickedly funny.
Grant, Rob Colony
A spin-off from the Red Dwarf series as down-trodden Eddie O'Hare flees would-be assassins to take shelter on the spaceship Colony, heading into deep space on a mission to save humankind. Cruel, cynical and very funny.
Holt, Tom Valhalla
When great warriors die, their reward is eternal life in Odin's great hall, Valhalla. But Valhalla has changed and like any corporation has adapted to survive. Unfortunately nothing could have prepared it for the arrival of currently-dead cocktail waitress Carol Kortright, who is not at all happy. Riotously funny.
Jacobson, Howard The mighty waltzer
A surly loner growing up in a 1950s Manchester family: a hilarious story of teenage angst and table-tennis.
Sharpe, Tom Wilt
“In Henry WIlt, Tom Sharpe has created the ultimate of all academic
failures... outrageous scenes and absurd characters.” (The Times)
Townsend, Sue The secret diary of Adrian Mole aged 13 ¾
The funniest book about growing-up ever written.
Wodehouse, P G The code of the Woosters / Stiff upper lip, Jeeves
A great introduction to the world of man about town, Bertie Wooster and his trusty manservant, Jeeves. When Bertie gets into a scrape over a girl and a cow creamer it's left to Jeeves to come to the rescue. Classic comedy from the College’s most famous writer.
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Burroughs, Augusten Running with scissors
Truth is definitely stranger than fiction. Augusten is sent to live with his mother’s psychiatrist, in one of the most bizarre and dysfunctional families you’ll ever meet. By turns harrowing and hilarious.
Capote, Truman In cold blood
In November 1959 a wealthy Kansas farmer, his wife and their two children were brutally murdered in their own home by two ex-convicts on parole. For the next six years Capote carefully researched the story of the Clutter family and of their murderers, Perry Smith and Richard Hickock finally finishing the book when the pair were hanged in 1965. This is a truly moving piece of writing that raises many questions about the judicial process and capital punishment.
Carcaterra, Lorenzo Sleepers
The true story (maybe) of four friends from Hell's Kitchen, a youthful prank that goes horribly wrong, a prison ordeal that changes them forever and revenge.
Gantos, Jack Hole in my life
Tempted to earn $10,000 to fund his college studies by smuggling drugs, Jack ends up with a prison sentence instead. Will he get a second chance?
Horwood, William The boy with no shoes: a memoir
A boy’s struggle with early trauma and his remarkable journey into adulthood.
Masters, Alexander Stuart, a life backwards
A widely acclaimed biography of a happy-go-lucky boy whose life takes a tragic turn and leads to a life of crime, imprisonment, drug-dependency, homelessness and tragedy. Sounds depressing (and at times is) but this is also an uplifting book filled with humour, compassion and great writing.
Moore, Michael Stupid White Men
Controversial, opinionated, hopelessly biased but guaranteed to make you think about the state of modern American politics and government.
SLater, Nigel Toast
A most evocative account of food and how it can dominate a child’s life.
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Beck, K K Fake
Danny's parents want to send him to a concentration camp for teenagers, but he never makes it; instead he goes on the run with Keith. All seems to be going well until Keith suggests they take on new identities and new lives. Danny begins to wonder if he will ever be himself again.
Blackman, Malorie Noughts & crosses
Racial prejudice is turned on its head in a brilliantly conceived and
stunningly executed novel that will, at times, leave you chilled to the bone.
Burgess, Melvyn Junk
A harrowing account of homelessness and drug abuse. Burgess is an author who is unafraid to tackle controversial issues as can be seen in his most recent book Sara’s Face a disturbing but utterly compelling story of a teenage girl and an ageing pop star who both share an obsession with plastic surgery with horiffic consequences.
Chambers, Aidan Postcards from no-man's land
A time-slip novel with a difference, moving between modern times and the second world war. Approach with an open mind…Winner of the Carnegie Medal.
Cormier, Robert The rag and bone shop
12 year-old Jason is accused of the murder of his friend Alicia. His
interrogator is a man with a reputation for always getting a confession. Will he get a confession from Jason? A disturbing but thought-provoking read from a brilliant story-teller.
Forde, Catherine Skarrs
A vivid and powerful story in which the confused life of Danny, living in a tough Scottish town, is seamlessly interwoven with the thoughts and memories of his grandfather, a prisoner of war in Burma.
Gardner, Graham Inventing Elliot
“Elliot’s life has been spinning out of control. He would give anything to get back to normal. Now, at his new school, he has a chance to reinvent himself. He will make himself so cool, so out of reach, that no one will ever hurt him again.” Unfortunately, things don’t quite go to plan...
Gray, Keith Malarkey
The new kid at Brook High School, John Malarkey is the wrong person in the wrong place at the wrong time. On the run from a mafia-like group who seem to be in control of the school, he has only 24 hours to prove his innocence...
Gray, Keith Ostrich Boys
A road trip with a difference. Distraught at the death of their friend, Ross, three teenage boys set out to steal his ashes from under the noses of his grieving family and take them to a place called Ross to scatter them. Along the way they learn much about friendship, themselves and their own part in Ross’s demise.
Hiaasen, Carl Hoot
A multi-stranded novel covering issues of bullying, friendships and
conservation, all of which combine to make a compelling read.
Hornby, Nick Slam
Hornby's first novel for teenagers chronicles the story of Sam, a skateboard-loving teenager, whose life is turned on its head when his girlfriend reveals that she is pregnant and wants to keep the baby. Hornby's books for adults are also well-worth reading particularly Fever Pitch, High Fidelity and About a Boy.
Kennen, Ally Beast
A great opening chapter, in which Stephen, the seventeen-year-old
narrator, tells the reader of the bad things that he has done and those he is about to do, leads into a page-turning story of teenage demons, some imagined and some all too real and dangerous.
Klass, David You don't know me
In a style all of his own, outsider John lets us into his world where
nothing is quite normal. Brilliantly written and at times both desperately moving and desperately funny.
Lloyd, Saci Carbon Diaries
The year is 2015 and reducing carbon emissions has reached a crisis point. The UK is the first country to introduce carbon dioxide rationing, but life must go on and for Laura Brown this means music, romance and teen angst. With its pathos this is perhaps best described as Adrian Mole meets the end of the world...
Lott, Tim White city blue
A surprising and fast-moving tale of changing friendships in West London.
McDonell, Nick Twelve
A chilling tale of urban adolescence, which chronicles the lives of a group of affluent New York teenagers and their seventeen-year-old drug dealer between Christmas and New Year. The story builds to an apocalyptic
climax, and once started is impossible to put down.
McGowan, Anthony Henry Tumour
Nerdy Hector Brunty’s life is turned on its head when he discovers that he not only has a brain tumour but that the tumour has a name (Henry) and a wicked personality all of its own which challenges him to take chances to turn his life around. Anarchic humour and life-affirming wisdom abound.
McGowan, Anthony The Knife that Killed Me
Caught between disparate school friendship groups, Paul chooses to become member rather than victim of the brutish inner circle. The consequences of his choice have an utterly believable but thoroughly chilling outcome.
MacPhail, Catherine Tribes
A realistic tale of gangs and the power and influence of evil. A gripping read with some truly frightening moments.
Mahy, Margaret 24 hours
Ellis, home for the holidays, is drawn into increasingly bizarre situations after meeting up with old school friend Jackie and three mysterious sisters. In 24 hours he is changed for ever.
Mark, Jan Heathrow nights
Banned from their school trip for disrupting a production of Hamlet three boys hide out in Heathrow airport. There they find that the constantly changing mood of the city with no residents has a bizarre effect on their lives.
Marks, Graham How it works
Seb Mitchell's life is a mess. He doesn't like school, argues with everyone, is dumped by his girlfriend by text message, goes out on a bender, and gets beaten ...but is there a guardian angel watching over him?
Naidoo, Beverley The other side of truth
Sade sees her mother shot dead and is forced to flee Nigeria with her young brother to seek refuge in England. A moving and thought-provoking novel of refugees and asylum. Winner of the Carnegie Medal.
Rai, Bali The crew
A gritty tale of a teenage gang who look out for each other in the harsh environment of a big inner city estate but face even greater danger when they become embroiled in the dangerous world of organised crime after finding a fortune in bank notes. A hard-hitting, gripping and frank look at teenage life.
Rosoff, Meg Just in Case
Teenager, David Case, becomes obsessed with fate, prompting him to change his name and personality. This is a fascinatingly quirky novel dealing with major issues of anxiety and depression but remaining compelling, intriguing and ultimately unforgettable.
Sachar, Louis Holes
EVERYONE should read this book! Sent to Camp Green Lake for a crime he didn't commit, teenager Stanley Yelnats appears to be continuing the family tradition of bad luck until, that is, he discovers the secret of the evil camp warden. Simply unputdownable!
Swindells, Robert Stone cold
Terror roams the streets as the man who calls himself Shelter stalks the lonely and frightened street-sleepers of London.
Valentine, Jenny Finding Violet Park
An amusing story of coincidences begins when sixteen-year-old Lucas finds the ashes of Violet Park in the local cab office and decides to investigate who she was leading to some startling discoveries and providing clues to the mysterious disapperarnce of his father. Jenny Valentine manages to combine humour with sadness in Broken Soup, the tale of Rowan, a girl struggling to cope with the death of her brother and the depression of her mother. When a strange boy presses a photographic negative into her hand while she waits at the supermarket checkout Rowan’s life suddenly becomes more interesting.
Blacklaws, Troy Karoo boy
A coming of age tale, in the tradition of Catcher in the Rye, set in the South Africa of apartheid. Vivid and evocative of both time and place, a novel about life and death, love and hate - a powerful and wholly memorable read.
Boyne, John The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas
A much talked about novel in which friendship between two innocent and trusting young boys in a world turned upside down by hatred and war leads to tragedy.
Breslin, Theresa The Medici Seal
A magnificent and absorbing book about Matteo, a boy who is in possession of an item that others will kill for. Saved from drowning by the great Leonardo da Vinci, Matteo accompanies him across war-torn Italy learning the secrets behind the maestro’s work whilst becoming embroiled in the feuding between the Borgias and the Medicis. A lengthy book but crammed full of period detail and a fascinating insight into Leonardo’s world.
Cornwell, Bernard Sharpe's tiger
Bernard Cornwell recreates the brutal British campaign of 1799 against the ancient and splendid civilisation of Mysore. Sharpe leads an attempt to rescue a senior British officer and save the campaign from catastrophe.
Dowd, Siobhan Bog Child
A powerful and moving story of growing up in “the troubles” in Northern Ireland. Winner of the Carnegie Medal in 2009.
Dumas, Alexandre The Count of Monte Cristo
An innocent man is imprisoned where a fellow prisoner directs him to a buried fortune. Long but unputdownable adventure set in C19th Paris.
Fine, Anne Road of Bones
Not strictly speaking an historical novel but set in a time and place very much like the Soviet Union under Stalin, this is a profound story about state (and personal) brutality in a country made paranoid under a totalitarian regime.
Forester, C S Hornblower series
Stirring tales of adventure on the high seas during the Napoleonic wars by an Old Alleynian. Follow the career of the eponymous hero by starting with Mr. Midshipman Hornblower.
Gavin, Jamila Coram boy
A sometimes horrific tale of the brutal side of history. A story of love and cruelty, beautifully written.
Geras, Adele Troy
A new twist on a timeless story. The novel focuses on the love of two
sisters for the same warrior during the brutal last days of the siege of Troy.
Glass, Linzi Ruby Red
A thought-provoking and challenging novel set during the darkest days of apartheid in South Africa seen through the eyes of sixteen-year-old Ruby whose family support the work of the African National Congress and suffer the consequences following the Soweto uprising of June 1976.
Laird, Elizabeth Crusade
The story of the meeting of Eastern and Western cultures and religions during the Third Crusade told through the eyes of two teenage boys on opposite sides.
Landman, Tanya Apache
A gripping tale of the fight of the Apache tribes to save their traditional ways of life in the face of ruthless incursions into their lands by land-hungry Mexicans and Americans.
Magorian Michelle Just Henry
Life is tough in the years after the end of the Second World War especially when your father has been killed in action. Henry, however, finds distraction and meaning in the cinema and when he uncovers a mystery hidden in an undeveloped camera film his life begins to take on an adventure fitting for the big screen.
Martin, Andrew The necropolis railway
A novel of 'murder, mystery and steam', steeped in the Gothic atmosphere of a grimy Edwardian London.
Newbery, Linda The shell house
A haunting portrayal of love, sexuality and spirituality over two generations, as the life of a young soldier who disappeared during the First World War is unveiled through the ruins of the hall where he once lived.
Peet, Mal Tamar
A genuinely gripping story about a young girl discovering the truth about her grandfather's war-time exploits as a member of the Dutch resistance. Full of period detail and revealing the dangers and horrific repercussions that resistance fighters faced in their battle against the Nazis Tamar keeps you glued to the edge of your seat. A well-deserved winner of the Carnegie Medal.
Provoost, Anne In the shadow of the ark
A powerful romance, and a thundering epic, set in the apocalyptic days of Noah's Ark - a very different spin on an old story.
Reeve, Philip Here Lies Arthur
A wonderfully irreverent retelling of the legend of Arthur, where the hero is brutish and dim-witted but his sidekick, Myrddin (a kind of sixth century spin-doctor), succeeds in creating a mythology of nobility and heroism.
Rosoff, Meg How I live now
Streetwise and cynical, 15 year old Daisy is sent from New York to stay with her cousins in rural England. Her story is played out against the frightening backdrop of a third world war, one with elements that readers will find frighteningly familiar.
Steinbeck, John Of mice and men
The deeply moving story of George and Lennie, two migrant labourers whose ill-fated search for the American dream results only in misfortune and despair.
Taylor, Mildred Roll of thunder, hear my cry
A profoundly moving story of hatred and racial injustice set in the American South during the Depression of the 1930s.
Wilson, Leslie Last train from Kummersdorf
Set against the background of Nazi Germany in the final days of World War II, this is the story of Hanno, a boy on the run from invading Russians and from the fruitless defence of Berlin. Haunted by memories of his brother's death, he is trying to reach Frankfurt and his remaining
family.
Adams, Douglas The hitch-hiker's guide to the galaxy
As weird and wacky now as when it was first published, the adventures of Ford Prefect and Arthur Dent as they travel the universe after earth is destroyed to make way for a hyperspace bypass.
Allen-Gray, Alison Unique
When he tries to find out about the identical brother he never knew he had, Dominic uncovers a horrifying secret...
Asimov, Isaac Foundation series
Classic science fiction from the master of the genre. Set in the far distant future, with Earth all but forgotten by the humans who live throughout the galaxy. Faced with imminent catastrophe and the return to a new dark age, Hari Seldon sets out to compile the Encyclopedia Galactica in order to preserve the knowledge of the race.
Banks, Iain M Consider Phlebas
Combines a vivid imagination, humour, a sense of enormous scale and icy plunges into the macabre. It is the first of a series set in the Culture Universe, a pseudo-democracy of humanoids and machines ruled by hyperintelligent AIs called 'Minds.'
Burgess, Melvin Bloodtide
A divided London some time in the future ruled by two warring families - this is a brutal world where 14-year old twins fight for survival and,
ultimately, supremacy.
Gibbons, Alan Shadow of the minotaur
The most realistic computer game ever leads Phoenix into a world where the difference between fantasy and reality is more than a little blurred. A book to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Mark, Jan Useful idiots
An original and compelling tale set in a world after climate change has changed everything: the UK has been eroded by the sea, and the old ways of living are considered dangerous and divisive.
Price, Susan The Sterkarm handshake
21st century time travel has made possible the exploitation of other worlds and centuries: in this case, the English-Scottish borders in the 16th century. A story of romance and revenge set against a stark historical background, it takes a long, cool look at the values of our society as the two worlds collide.
Various authors Doctor Who series
The new series' of Doctor Who on tv have been a huge success and the accompanying novelisations make great reading.
Wells, H G The war of the worlds
One man's account of a Martian invasion of Earth. When a performance of this book was broadcast on American radio many people panicked, thinking the events of the book were actually taking place.
Wooding, Chris Storm Thief
Another breathtaking novel from the author of The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray that whisks the reader into a fantasy world where science fiction and adventure combine in a thrilling and original story.
Wyndham, John The day of the triffids
Frighteningly topical novel of the consequences of meddling with nature. Try also The Midwitch cuckoos by the same author.
Abagnale, Frank W. Catch me if you can
The true life story of a master con-man who lived the high-life whilst masquerading as a pilot, a doctor, a lawyer and a college professor whilst cashing forged cheques to the tune of $2.5 million. Filmed with Leonardo diCaprio in the starring role.
Ammaniti, Niccolo I’m not scared
During a scorching summer in the middle of rural Italy, exploring a
dilapidated farmhouse, Michele discovers a terrible secret... one which tragically involves his whole community. A heartstopping yet lyrical novel.
Ballard, J G Empire of the sun
An unforgettable and haunting picture of the helplessness of war.
Coe, Jonathan The Rotter's Club
Birmingham in the 70s: industrial strikes, bad pop music, corrosive class warfare, adolescent angst, IRA bombings. Four friends: a class clown who stoops very low for a laugh; a confused artist enthralled by guitar rock; an earnest radical with socialist leanings; and a quiet dreamer obsessed with poetry, God, and the prettiest girl in school.
Crichton, Michael Jurassic Park
Dinosaurs gone wild..
Dick, Philip K Minority report
The title story in this collection by a master of science fiction tells of a world in which crime can be predicted -- and prevented. It has been adapted for the screen by Steven Spielberg, while another Philip K Dick classic, Do androids dream of electric sheep?, was made into the film Blade Runner.
Du Maurier, Daphne The birds and other stories
Six stories of pathos and terror, in which the weak, the dispossessed and the exploited wreak vengeance on a complacent world. The title story was made into a film by Alfred Hitchcock.
Gibson, William Neuromancer
The Matrix: a world within a world... cyberspace and virtual reality were invented in this novel.
Herbert, Frank Dune
A cult novel that could transform your ideas of what the future could be.
O’Brian, Patrick Master and commander
First in the series of novels set during the Napoleonic wars, with all the action and excitement of the film.
Tolkien, J R R The lord of the rings
Without doubt the greatest work of fantasy ever written. Best read before watching the films.
Various authors A shocking accident: stories with a sting in the tail
A pig that falls from the sky.. a necklace whose loss brings ruin... a heart which death cannot silence. Classic tales, old and new, all with a twist.
Dahl, Roald Tales of the unexpected
From the inimitable master of seduction and suspense - each with a razor-sharp sting in the tail.. one of several collections of his stories.
Hornby, Nick Speaking with the angel
12 short stories by some of today's hottest young authors, including Irvine Welsh, Dave Eggers, Zadie Smith and Roddy Doyle. At turns clever, outrageous, witty, edgy, tender, and wicked, this collection is guaranteed not to disappoint.
Naidoo, Beverley Out of bounds: stories of conflict and hope
A collection of short stories set in South Africa under apartheid. They describe the lives of young people, both black and white, in what was for many years seen as the world's most openly racist society.
Westall, Robert The call and other stories
An exceptional blend of supernatural stories featuring horror, suspense and humour from a master short story-teller.
Armstrong, LanceIt’s not about the bike
The inspiring story of a world class cyclist who is struck down by cancer, only to recover and go on to win the Tour de France.
Bo, Ben Burn out
A pacy, gripping read about skateboarding.
Culpepper, Chuck Up Pompey
An American sports journalist opens his eyes to the highs and lows of English football by following Portsamouth for a year. Very funny!
D’Orso, Michael Eagle Blue
For basketball fans, the story of a high school season in the harsh world of Arctic Alaska.
Flintoff, Andrew Being Freddie
England's best all-round cricketer for 20 years tells his story so far. Includes the story of the Ashes victory in 2005.
Grant, Neil Rhino chasers
“They drove to the edge of fear and back, but still had time to surf”.
Grisham, John Bleachers
An entertaining story of high school American football - a departure from Grisham's usual legal thrillers.
Hornby, Nick Fever pitch
Far superior to the film and a must for any football fan - the joys and tears of a man obsessed.
Moore, Tim French revolutions
Setting out with a new bike and a large supply of Savlon, journalist Tim Moore attempts to cycle the route of the 2000 Tour de France. Full of anecdotes about the tour as well as being a very funny commentary on the trials and tribulations of his journey this is a must read for any cycling fan.
Simpson, Joe Touching the void
The heart-stopping true story of the mountaineer’s suffering and fortitude - also a terrific film.
Updike, John Golf dreams
His observations of the game’s maddening absurdity are at once
marvellously funny and acutely painful.
Wilkinson, Jonny My world
A must for rugby fans and players alike.
Almond, David Skellig
A fascinating and beautiful tale of a life-changing discovery.
Delaney, Joseph The spook’s apprentice
Set in Yorkshire, about a teenage boy who becomes apprenticed, against his will, to an exorcist.
James, M R Ghost stories of an antiquary
Published in 1904, James' stories of "the evil that dieth not but lieth in wait", established the modern horror story. For those who like their
horror mixed with intellect.
Poe, Edgar Allen The fall of the house of Usher
From the "arch-priest" of Gothic horror, a collection of frightening and grotesque tales to haunt you forever.
Rees, Celia Soul taker
A short but haunting read. Lewis James is unpopular, depressed and has a miserable home life. Under the influence of a local toyshop owner it looks as though he might be able to turn his life around - but darker things are afoot.
Sedgwick, Marcus My Swordhand is Singing
A thoroughly chilling and atmospheric tale of the living dead and the battle to destroy them.
Shelley, Mary Frankenstein
A horror classic much seen adapted for the big screen, but the novel
provides plenty to think about: is Frankenstein's creation an evil monster or someone/thing to be sympathised with?
Stevenson, Robert Louis The strange case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
Dr Jekyll's restless genius allows him to bring his own appalling double to life. One of the finest Victorian horror stories.
Stoker, Bram Dracula
One of the best known and most popular horror stories ever written. An intriguing mixture of myth, legend and horror.
Thompson, Kate Creature of the Night
Bobby is an unpleasant boy from an almost equally unpleasant family, but he finds redemption of sorts whilst staying in a remote Irish village. Somewhat like the early works of David Almond, Kate Thompson introduces an element of the supernatural into an otherwise very down-to-earth story.
Westall, Robert The scarecrows
A summer in the countryside leads to a terrifying test for Simon Wood when the three figures standing among the turnips turn nasty.
Bowler, Tim Apocalypse
A powerful depiction of one boy’s terrifying battle to survive, that takes you to the very core of good and evil and an unforgettable vision of the world.
Brooks, Kevin Kissing the rain
Life changes dramatically for fat Moo Nelson when he witnesses a murder from the secluded bridge where he goes to try and forget the bullying and loneliness. Suddenly everyone is interested in him… including the murderer? From the author of Martyn Pig and Lucas.
Buchan, John The thirty-nine steps
Murder and a political conspiracy lead to an epic chase across the moors of Scotland in a book that is impossible to put down. The film version by Alfred Hitchcock is unmissable.
Cassidy, Anne Looking for JJ
The gripping story of a child murderer who is released from prison as a teenager with a new identity. The media is desperate to track her down, while ‘Alice’ wants only to make a new life for herself. With echoes of several real life stories, this is a profoundly haunting book.
Clancy, Tom Patriot games
From England to Ireland to America, an explosive wave of violence sweeps a CIA analyst and his family into the deadliest game of our time: international terrorism.
Faulks, Sebastian Devil May Care
A welcome return for James Bond as he battles against a new villain, Julius Gorner, a man with a mission of revenge against the British. Faulks brilliantly captures the style of Ian Fleming (see below).
Fleming, Ian Casino Royale
The first of his James Bond adventures - pure escapism! Now a great film, too.
Forsyth, Frederick The day of the jackal
A political killer code-named "The Jackal" is hired to assassinate Charles De Gaulle, president of France.
Harris, Robert Fatherland
What if Hitler had won the war? A gripping thriller set in a modern German super-state.
Higson, Charlie Silverfin
First in a series of thrillers featuring the young Bond which sees James on the case of a mad Scottish laird conducting horrific experiments in his isolated castle. Has some genuinely scarey moments!
Le Carré, John The spy who came in from the cold
Alec Leamas, a British spy, is sent to East Germany supposedly to defect, but in fact to sow disinformation. In typical Le Carré fashion the plot twists and turns, and Leamas becomes convinced that he is just a pawn in a moral no-man's land.
Mcnab, Andy & Rigby, Robert Boy soldier
An exciting thrill-a-minute chase as a former SAS explosives expert tries to evade capture and revenge from those (including his own grandson) who believe he is a traitor to his country and his regiment. Fans of Anthony Horowitz, Charlie Higson and Robert Muchamore will love the adrenaline-fuelled action of Boy soldier.
Rushton, Rosie Last seen wearing trainers
A powerful contemporary thriller with twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages. Katie runs away from an unhappy home life with an apparently sympathetic stranger, but it all goes horribly wrong...
Smith, Tom Rob Child 44
A chilling tale of one man's attempt to catch a serial killer in Soviet Russia during the 1950s but with its genesis in Stalin's Great Terror of the 30s. A thrilling read by an Old Alleynian. A sequel, The Secret Speech, continues the story in the same chilling manner.
Whyman, Matt Boy kills man
The chilling and suspenseful tale of a 12 year old child assassin living in Colombia, where this kind of thing really happens.
November 2006