Red Storybook Series

Life in London during the second world war, as seen through the eyes of a lively nine-year-old boy. Neville Chamberlain has just made the announcement: Great Britain and Germany are at war. Mum worries about Derek in the army; Dad's thinking about the Andersen shelter he's just built in the garden; Elaine is thinking about boys and stockings and her job at the factory. Jenny, aged eleven is worrying about the animals. But Bobbie -- aged nine, has never been so excited in his life. He thinks the war is the most fantastic game. His only worry is that it will end before he is old enough to join up -- he wants to see the planes -- He knows the names of all of them; he wants to catch a German spy; he wants to be kept in the Andersen shelter over night. It's only when his beloved Big Tom, a cat, is missing believed dead, that Bobbie realises the truth about war. A wonderful picture of childhood and a sensitive portrayal of family loyalties in times of crisis. Excitement, terror, misery and humour -- the poignancy of Goodnight Mr Tom plus the humour of Hope and Glory in this beautifully crafted young novel.

Harriet Strikes Again!

by Jean Ure

Published 4 March 1996

HARRIET'S BACK! If there's one thing that Harriet's not short of, it's good ideas. Whether it's a money-raising scheme, or a new way of helping somebody out, Harriet has all the answers. Unfortunately, Harriet's plans usually send people diving for cover -- usually too late! Four hilarious new stories from the author of 'Help! It's Harriet!'

The Puppy Present

by Jean Ure

Published 2 November 1998

Another winning Jean Ure story for younger readers, about one small puppy in need of some love...

One small puppy just needs a loving home...

Ginger and James are two of a kind! Both just want to be loved and cared for... even if one is just a puppy, and one is a boy who just wants a puppy.
When Ginger's young owner gets fed up with caring for him, and James' gets fed up with his parents caring for the new baby, they both take drastic action. But will their paths cross in time for them to find what they need in each other?

Help! It's Harriet

by Jean Ure

Published 9 June 1994

EVERYONE KNOWS HARRIET JOHNSON.

If someone has a car to be cleaned, or a competition to be organised or a baby to be sat, Harriet is always ready to help.

Unfortunately, Harriet and disaster go hand in hand, and if something can go wrong, it certainly will!