Book reviews - non fiction ages 11+

We have reviewed some of the best new non fiction around. There are so many wonderful books being published today that it can be hard to choose, so take a look at the ideas below and then browse in your local bookshop or library.

Heroes by Jonny Marx

Read stories and facts about over 100 inspirational real-life superheroes in this fantastic book. Scientists, vets, artists and inventors are just a few of the ordinary people who have achieved extraordinary things. What a wonderful way to show children that it's not just in the 'high-flying' careers that you can accomplish incredible things. Filling the book are bold graphic illustrations by Gerhard van Wyk which really bring it to life.

Strange but True by Kathryn Hulick

Are you ready to delve in to the details of 10 of the world's greatest mysteries? Betty and Barney Hill were heading home after their holiday but later on find themselves 55 km further south than they should be, there are several hours that they can't account for and Betty starts having dreams about alien abduction. Were they abducted by aliens? Read through facts, theories and scientific knowledge for each of the mysteries as the world's greatest mysteries are explained. A great book for inquisitive minds, you might even come up with your own theories!

Tomi: Tomi Reichental's Holocaust Story by Eithne Massey

The Holocaust is something that should never be simply consigned to the past - its horrors need to be kep in people's minds so that they never let such atrocities take place again. This needs to start with the younger generation, so reading this book is important. Tomi Reichental has an idyllic childhood in a small friendly village but gradually the way others treated him began to change, and people started to disappear. Then Tomi was sent a thousand kilometres away, with all the other local Jews, to the terrifying Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. He is one of the survivors, although as we know, the Nazis killed millions of people because of their race or religion. This is a true account, told in narrative form; it certainly doesn't make for easy reading, but the personal touch of the accessible and honest is significant and moving.

Dr Christian's Guide to You by Dr. Christian Jessen

Teens have many questions about the ways in which their bodies and their emotions change as they approach puberty. It is an age when self-consciousness really steps up so having an authoritative book to which they can turn for the answers to a multitude of questions is really beneficial. Dr Christian has a very straight-talking way of addressing issues and problems and the book is packed with practical advice on growing up stress-free and healthy. Topics include: coping with stress, being healthy and happy, your changing body, getting active, looking after yourself, eating well and dealing with anxiety. I am glad to see that the book addresses the issue of stress, as this is an issue of growing concern. The book uses full-colour throughout, with a lively look which will appeal to the target audience. An excellent book which tackles difficult concepts practically and reassuringly.

How to Be a Blogger and Vlogger in 10 Easy Lessons (Super Skills) by Shane Birley

The subtitle of this book is 'Learn How to Create Your Own Blog, Vlog, or Podcast and Get It Out in the Blogosphere!'. It really is a step-by-step guide to every stage of the process and it's presented in a simple manner that makes it easy to understand and to follow. The 10 lesson format is excellent as it makes the project manageable; each skill is given as many pages as it takes and is not constrained by an artificial limit to the number of pages. Each stage is fully illustrated with step-by-step illustrations and photographs, so children can visually as well; the visual aspect is very well done. There are plenty of professional tips and practical techniques to get the would-be blogger started. From planning what to share with the world to learning how to stay safe online, this book tells you all you need to know, clearly and concisely.

Let's Talk About Sex by Robie Harris and Michael Emberley

As parents, this can be among the hardest conversations we have with our children, but it is essential. This excellent book can be read by children of 9+ on their own, but is also a good springboard for discussion and conversation with its practical approach. This new edition of a highly acclaimed book includes Internet and texting safety, birth control, LGBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender) issues and more. Accurate and up-to-date, it directly addresses young people's concerns and questions in an approachable way. The bird and the bee make comments which are fun but appropriate, engaging the interest and promoting discussion. A book which will be useful for many years and an excellent one to make available to young people.

Our Amazing Planet: The World in Infographics by Jon Richards

Infographics are graphic visual representations of information, data or knowledge which present complex information in an easy-to-understand way. We live in an increasingly visual and fast-paced society, so they are ideal for our modern world and pupils will enjoy this easy assimilated way of presenting information; it is also excellent for reluctant and struggling readers. This fascinating book looks at science, technology, life sciences and natural history - visualising amazing data in beautifully designed infographics. Key scientific concepts and ideas are explained with instant clarity and visual appeal and the book will be an excellent reference aid for homework. The amount of information included is amazing!

Under Pressure: How To Handle Cyber-Bullies by Honor Head

This is a particularly good title in an excellent series. Cyber-bullying is a terrifying new phenomenon and parents and teachers have not, on the whole, experiences of it during their schooldays to draw on. So, they too will find this book a good way of learning just what is involved so they can held young ones. Cyber-bullying is particularly tough to experience because people may never even know who the bully is and it is often easy for bullies to hide behind their online identity. Bullying takes place for all sorts of reasons - looks, your sexual orientation, your race or religion or for no apparent reason. This book will help young people confront the issues and give the reassurance of practical advice to help face up to the problem and share it with adults.

Under Pressure: How to Handle Bullying and Gangs by Honor Head

This is a well written series which really gives the feel that the author understands just what young people are going through; in turn, this will give them the confidence to face up to the problem and to confide in adults where needed. The book helps understanding of how and why bullying takes place and and what can be done to improve things. It discusses issues around gangs and the dangers of becoming involved with criminal activity. This book will help young people confront issues, givings good advice based on the experiences of real people. 'Under pressure Q and As' are a good feature, which answer many questions and show that the problems are not unique. Good use of photos to share emotions and give a true picture.

Big Business: YouTube by Adam Sutherland

Business may not be the most engrossing subject to everyone, but by taking iconic brands which form part of pupils' everyday lives, they will be immediately engaged. YouTube has been phenomenally successful since its launch in 2005 - find out how it came into being, the successes and failures over the years, key facts about the industry and its impact on the global market. The Business Matters features help pupils learn about key features which apply to all businesses, explaining them in a clear and concise way for young readers to follow. Good use of colour, plenty of photos, plus a quiz, glossary and index combine to make a very good account.

The Pharmaceutical Industry (Global Industries Uncovered) by Richard Spilsbury

A controversial topic and a book which will lead to plenty of discussion. The book examines how the industry makes the world a better place and examines it in detail. Four case studies show the impact of HIV/AIDS; Pfizer; drugs in India and malaria - these are thought-provoking and an excellent insight into the problems and possible solutions. Global Industries Uncovered exemplifies how each industry is indeed a global one by detailing the theory behind globalisation and discussing the issues surrounding each industry. Pupils are given information which encourages them to make up their own minds.

Deforestation (Development or Destruction?) by Richard Spilsbury

Another contentious issue and again one on which pupils need to be informed if they are to make their own decisions on right or wrong. Based on case studies from around the world this book explores the consequences of different kinds of resource management within the forestry industry. Throughout, pros and cons of each development will be presented, in order to present both sides and provoke a debate/discussion. Diagrams, charts, maps and photographs are well used to explain and expand. Pupils in KS3 are encouraged to reason, argue and debate so books like this are excellent to support that.

What's Next? The Future Of...: Warfare by Diane Bailey

One in a thought-provoking series which gives the facts in-depth and gives students to opportunity to make up their own minds. Suitable for upper KS2 and KS3, this looks at potential future developments in warfare, including advancements in robot technology as well as satellite-guided bombs and other technologies that are currently considered to be state of the art. By examining the historical roots of warfare this book presents a balanced account of modern warfare and is an excellent basis for discussion and debate.

Our World Divided: Afghanistan From War to Peace by Philip Steele

An excellent way to encourage young people to develop their own views, based on a balanced set of opinions. Starting with the background and history the book goes on to cover key events of conflicts in Afghanistan. Not restricted by the two-page format of books for younger readers, the book is divided into chapters focusing on key topics. Different opinions, including views found in the media, are explored alongside factual accounts of events thereby encouraging students to think about their own views and discuss controversial topics. The series offers clarity on topics we all need to understand and for many adults, the depth of detail is quite sufficient, adding to the value of these books. The layout is clear and the photos are particularly good at showing the human impact of the conflict.

Moments in History: Why Did Hiroshima happen? by Reg Grant

An insight into the events leading up to Hiroshima; the attack itself and its aftermath are all covered in a thought-provoking manner. In the early morning hours of August 6, 1945, a B-29 bomber headed for the city of Hiroshima to drop an atomic bomb. The contemporary photographs give an informative view of the tragedy and study of them is an excellent way to generate discussion in the classroom. The layout makes good use of fact boxes on topics such as 'Why did it happen', 'Voices from history' and 'Turning points in history' - again, good to stimulate discussion. It would be better if the glossary, timeline and index were printed on a lighter background as they will be hard to read for any with reading difficulties - a minor criticism of what are extremely useful resources which complement the book well.

What's Next? The Future Of...: Architecture by Lori Dittmer

An interesting look at potential future developments in architecture, which will stimulate discussion and perhaps even controversy. Starting with a history of building going back to earliest times, it goes on to discuss the conflict between consumerism or conservation. It discusses the Dynamic Tower, self-contained cities as well as computerised blueprints and other technologies that are currently considered to be state of the art. By examining the historical roots of architecture this book presents a knowledgeable and balanced account of modern and future architecture. An interesting overview.

Russia and Moscow (Developing World) by Philip Steele

This series that explores some of the fastest-developing countries and cities in the world and assesses how they are dealing with the challenges of the 21st century. Topics looked at include: population structure, the economy, environmental sustainability and the outlook for the future. Each title also features a closer look at an individual city within the country. Russia is now more prosperous than ever before with new wealth based on its rich natural resources. This new era of prosperity is reflected in Russia's capital city, Moscow. But material wealth brings associated problems and this book investigates some of those as it looks at what the future holds. The book gives a good insight into life in Russia including topics such as knowledge and health and religion and customs as well as the politics and Russia's place in the wider world.

History Makers: Asian People Who Changed History by Adam Sutherland

A look back through time at some of the Asian people who have had a huge impact on world history - from Gautama Buddha and Confucius to Indira Gandhi and Arundhati Roy, their impact has been significant and wide-ranging. Each has one or two pages with summary biographical information and the impact they had - with, of course, a photo or representation of each. There are also brief outlines of another six people. The timeline puts each into historical context. Of course, there is an index and glossary.

Body Decoration (Radar) by Adam Sutherland

Body decoration is nothing new and it is an integral part of many cultures. Discover where tattooing and piercing came from, how people have used make up since the ancient times, and learn how to create your own intricate nail art designs or make a pair of earrings with this colourful insight into a somewhat controversial topic. Look inside to find a 5-minute Interview and a Star Story with a famous TV tattoo artist, The pros and cons of body art are summarised - this is a good way to encourage young people to reason on the topic, and then read all about some amazing body decoration record breakers!

Cash, Savings and All That Stuff - A Guide to Money and How to Manage it by Kira Vermond

What an excellent book! Packed with practical advice, this is ideal for teenagers and much better to give them a book that they can refer to before they get into financial difficulties than having to bail them out after. In fact, I found it very interesting and I am sure there is a lot here that adults would benefit from as well. The book explains the mysteries of money and cash management in an accessible, humorous way for teenagers. From how we work for money to how we then make money work for us, it demystifies budgets, banking and credit cards. It gives sensible strategies for operating within an income and saving for a rainy day at the same time as encouraging entrepreneurial thinking and investing in the future. It considers wider issues such as the global distribution wealth and includes ideas on how you can raise money for good causes. The humorous presentation and use of cartoons make the book interesting and approachable to read and at no point does it talk down to the reader.

Photos First (One Shot) by Ruth Thomson

This unusual book is a good introduction to studying photography, looking at important photos every child should know. It looks at many iconic images including William Anders' Earthrise and Andy Warhol's Marilyn Diptych and discusses how they were created as well as giving information about the photographer. Each photo has three 'Photo thoughts' - topics for consideration and discussion which will be excellent to discuss in class to encourage students to ponder on these works.

Africa and the Slave Trade (Black History) by Dan Lyndon

The Black History series brings together a wide range of events and experiences from the past to promote knowledge and understanding of black culture today - an important objective. This book looks at the impact of the Transatlantic slave trade on Africa and on the lives of the enslaved Africans. Illustrated with contemporary material, the book gives a good insight and plenty of food for thought.

Cool Brands (Radar) by Liz Gogerly

We all know that teens (and younger children too) are keen to keep up with the latest trends. So this book, which focuses on branding, is just what they will want to read. Branding has helped make some products so cool that everyone wants them. Find out just how important branding is and even design your own logo with the help of the Radar guide. Topical subjects with bright jazzy presentation cleverly appeal to the market and really encourage reading. Find out more at www.ontheradar.co.uk

Cloning and Genetic Engineering (Both Sides of the Story) by Nicola Barber

This is a complex subject and one which many of us don't fully understand. This book gives us the background to these contentious issues and by giving both sides of the story, enables the reader to make an informed decision. There are plentiful quotes from both perspectives, along with easily understood factual information, plus photos which can be used as the basis for further discussion. Ethical debates surrounding hard-hitting topics are vital for a balanced view on the world. By looking at both sides of the story, these thought-provoking books aim to inform and encourage discussion on some tough subjects.

My School, Our World: Incredible and Unusual Schools Around the World by Susan Hughes

This is a fascinating insight into a multitude of different schools. Each two page spread takes a specific theme, which is an interesting and unusual approach rather than taking geographical location as the basis. So we learn about environmentally sustainable schools, schools built out of rubble, portable schools and many more - and the overall emphasis is on the importance of education and determination to achieve it. The vast number of photos bring the ideas alive for us and show just what a variety in schooling there is.

Self-Esteem and Being YOU (Teen Life Confidential) by Anita Naik

The teen years are full of uncertainties and this book answer some key questions. Are you scared to take risks in case you make a fool of yourself? Do you need other people's approval? If someone likes you do you think there must be something wrong with them? Do you hate your body? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this essential guide will help you to turn your opinions around. It will boost yourself esteem and encourage you to believe in who and what you are. This is an excellent series of books for teen readers. It addresses their concerns in a practical, reassuring and approachable way. Often, teen can find it hard to discuss these issues with adults, so this is a great series to have available at home or school for teens to pick up and enjoy.

Periods, Zits and Other Bits (Teen Life Confidential) by Charlotte Owen

Of course, girls worry about getting their first period. What does it mean? When will it happen? How will it feel? Will everyone else know? And what an earth do you do? This guide is packed full of information and advice. It will answer your questions, and you can read about the experiences of others to reassure you that you are not alone. My only reservation about this particular title is that maybe girls need to read it just before they become teens. These books don't make the reader feel she is being talked down to - more that they are taking advice from a slightly older and more experienced friend.

Terezin: A Story of the Holocaust by Ruth Thomson

Shocking? Yes, it is, but also very moving and a very meaningful tribute to all those who died there or left only to go to a death camp. Terezin is the story of the Terezin/Theresienstadt fortified ghetto, where the Nazis imprisoned thousands of Jews during the Second World War.This unique book features first-hand accounts of life in the town as well as moving works of art from some of the artists who were incarcerated there. The huge amount of source material used in the book gives it huge impact - there are drawings and paintings from inmates and illustrations of artefacts. An exceptional look inside a little-known place which had me gripped throughout. The writing is sensitive yet forceful, holding nothing back.

 

Starting Your Own Business (The Quick Expert's Guide) by Adam Sutherland

An interesting and approachable book in a series designed to satisfy those who want to get on with things rather than read lengthy (and often boring!) explanations before they can start.   There is a surprising amount of information packed into this book and the presentation is attractive and appealing. Plenty to think about and all the key issues are covered. The book includes features that break down  the principles of starting a business into manageable chunks, with inspirational case studies, activities and a final project to test the reader's new skills. Chapter round-ups also offer tips on key words and phrases as well as boosting self esteem and confidence.

Steven Gerrard and Theo Walcott (Football All Stars) by Rory Callan

Two books in one! Read about football superstar Steven Gerrard - a no-nonsense midfielder with an incredible goal-scoring record. Then flip the book over to find out about Theo Walcott - one of the fastest midfielders in the league, with breathtaking pace. Find out how both footballers rose to fame, with plenty of photos and clear, easy to follow text. This is one in the Edge series and it's a great way to get reluctant boy readers interested in books.
 

Being a Pro Footballer (Top Jobs: Radar) by Sarah Levele

Think about all those dream jobs young boys and girls long for - then look at the Radar Top Jobs series to find lots of them!  Find out all about the highs, the lows, the perks and the hard work that are part of the world at the top of football. Get the scoop on what a day in the life of a pro footballer is like, read the 5-minute interview with ex-England player Gary Neville and check out how international soccer star Marta made it to the top!

Being a DJ (Top Jobs: Radar) by Lise Regan

Another dream job - find out about the beat, the skills and the gear. The book includes a real life story, history and an interview. The magazine-style format of the Radar series is excellent for engaging less enthusiastic readers.

The Radar series: "Current topics are presented with a strong magazine-style flavour - perfect 'down time' reads or springboard for class discussion. Each title comprises a range of literacy text types, offering children a selection of gripping and engaging writing styles. Plenty of fascinating 'human interest' appeal - real life stories, blogs, interviews, star stories and poster page". 

Helicopters (Ultimate Machines) by Rob Colson

A fascinating insight into those machines we sometimes see whirring overhead. The range of different helicopters and the roles they carry out will intrigue young readers, who will find this book easy to read and a source of fascinating information. An introduction to the world`s most popular high-performance vehicles. Each title features all the information about a specific type of vehicle, from early and classic models to the latest high-tech machines. Also in  this series, which features information from the earliest models right up to the latest technology - Tanks and Military Vehicles (Ultimate Machines) and Warships (Ultimate Machines).

Armed Services (Radar) by Adam Sutherland 

This exciting book, packed with photos and facts, will enthrall all those with an interest in the armed services around the world.  Radar delivers streetwise, hot-topic reads for kids aged 9+. I think the series will have appeal to all ages - adults who just want a manageable amount of information will also find it interesting - as I write, my husband is dipping into this and quoting interesting facts to me! With bold, fresh design and topics that have bags of appeal, Radar will encourage children to read - and keep reading! Another book which will interest all age groups is Police Forensics (Radar) , which tells about the crimes, the clues and the science. You find out what equipment forensic officers use, key facts and statistics, and then follow a day in the life of a DNA forensic officer. Find out more about this exciting series at www.ontheradar.co.uk

Special Forces (Radar) by Adam Sutherland 

The special forces - elite fighting crews - carry out the world's most dangerous missions.The wide ranging contents include: All About: The Fighting Elite, Read All About It: The Hunt for Bin Laden, Top That!:, Firearms Stats, World View: Passport to Protection, Poster Page: Bear Grylls, Don't Try This At Home: The Halo, The History Bit: World's Best Fighters, Top That: Super 'Copters, Pull a Number: Special Stats, Top Five: The Missions, 5-Minute Interview: Dave Thomas, Get the Gear: Underwater Kit, Who's Who: Delta Force, The Lingo: Combat Talk, and Fan Club.
 

 Military Intervention (Ethical Debates) by Kaye Stearman

Is it ever justifiable for one country to send armed forces into another country? Is this sometimes necessary, to save lives and to keep the peace? A contentious issues explored with well balanced arguments.The Ethical Debates series shows balanced arguments for and against issues affecting our 21st century world. They study each argument in detail and explore the history of each topic. The use of case studies throughout bring the issues to light and provide an excellent basis for discussion..
 

North and South Korea (Our World Divided) by Cath Senker

The background, history and key events of the two conflicting regimes in Korea are covered in this book. Differing opinions, including views found in the media, are explored alongside factual accounts of events - this wide-ranging source material gives excellent scope for the student to make up their own minds and to analyse and discuss the evidence put forward. The book is thoughtfully designed to make an excellent classroom resource, stimulating discussion and provoking thoughts. The case studies give a real insight into the lives of ordinary people and the effects of the conflicts on them.

I'm Good at English - What Job Can I Get? by Richard Spilsbury

An interesting aspect of these books is the personal characteristics that are likely to be associated with being good at a particular subject - for example, those who are good at English are likely to be creative, analytical and good communicators. Twelve different jobs are outlined - including librarian, journalist and researcher. There is a brief comment from a professional, along with an outline of the job and the qualifications needed. A useful list of places to go for additional information will be helpful for those whose enthusiasm has been aroused by this interesting book.
   

I'm Good at Science - What Job Can I Get? by Richard Spilsbury 

12 careers suited to youngsters good at science, ranging from forensic scientist to astronomer to dentist. It would have been good perhaps to see a few slightly less aspirational careers included for the less academic who nonetheless enjoy science. However, it's always good to aim high and this book, along with the rest of the series, gives excellent suggestions for future careers, all presented in an entertaining and accessible fashion. What Job Can I Get?: ICT (I'm Good At); and What Job Can I Get?: Maths (I'm Good At)

Slavery and Civil Rights (Documenting History) by Philip Steele

Today's history students are required to use primary sources in order to understand the topic they are studying. This gives them a real insight and the opportunity to develop their own  opinions about the events that have shaped history. In Slavery and Civil Rights this controversial topic is brought to life from the roots of the slave trade, through to its impact and on to abolition and the rise of civil rights movements. Copiously illustrated with contemporary illustrations, this is an excellent way to stimulate discussion.

Cool Brands (Radar) by Liz Gogerly

Learn about cool brands throughout the ages, from the historic Coca Cola brand to today's Apple Inc. Find out all about Brand Beckham, read an interview with a brand designer and discover how to design a cool brand logo, step by step! Designed to appeal to a young audience, this will show exactly how a product (or a person) can become massively successful, just through good marketing. Laid out in an accessible and brightly coloured format, the reader is drawn in and encouraged to dip in and out of the book, learning plenty of interesting snippets every time. 
 

Body Decoration (Radar) by Adam Sutherland

Often a controversial topic, find out the origins of body decoration - it's nothing new! Find out about the history of body decoration, those who practise it today, and the many forms it can take.
Radar is a great series to introduce to young people as it covers things they really want to know about - try these titles too: Dance Culture: Bhangra and Bollywood (Radar), Street Art (Radar), Street Sports: Freestyle BMX (Radar)

 Anglo-Saxon England by Sally Crawford

The aptly named Shire Living Histories really do bring history to life and really should appeal to all age groups. Just flicking through these books gives a good feel for the high quality of production and the extensive use of illustrative material. This volume covers the period 400 - 790; a period which the book tells us has often been dismissed as the 'Dark Ages', but which is in fact rich in culture and development, and important in developing our understanding of subsequent history. The book is an easy read, yet packed with information, much of which relates to sites all around the country which can be visited today and which are listed at the end of the book. The book is a portrait of daily life, including family, local area, education, entertainment and transport and provides an excellent background for studies of the period.

 Early Eighteenth Century Britain by Lorna Coventry

Another fascinating read from the Shire Living Histories series. As usual, it focuses on everyday lives and gives us a real insight into how people lived - and without understanding that, it is hard to understand the wider developments in the history of our country. The book is both educational and informative, giving it an appeal to a wide market. It is possible to dip in and out, just focusing on points of interest, but it is a great read from beginning to end. There is an interesting list of surviving 18th century buildings - visiting these will make an excellent complement to the book. As always, the book is richly illustrated drawing on a huge range of resources, and all are extensively captioned - don't miss this information.

The Making of the British Landscape by Francis Pryor

This is an impressive account of how the British landscape has been shaped, from the time after the Ice Age right up to today. With nearly 800 pages of small print, this is an immensely detailed account and yet very readable. Copiously illustrated, this brings our landscape to life and updates the classic work by W G Hoskins. It helps us understand how our ancestors lived and the impact they had on our landscape and way of life. It would be easy to dip into, just to pick up information about specific periods. Alternatively, it will inform the reader as they visit various parts of the country - from the formation of the Norfolk Broads, to how to see field patterns, thus bringing our landscape alive and answering many questions.

Wartime Britain by Mike Brown

A new title in the Shire Living Histories series, this is an engrossing look into everyday life during World War II. Those who lived through the period will find it a nostalgic read which will vividly recall the period for them. Younger readers will be given a deeper understanding of just what it was like to live on 'The Home Front'. It is the detail that really brings this book to life - the everyday things: how were pets fed? What was it like to be an evacuee? How did the countryside change? Packed with contemporary illustrations and drawing heavily on those evocative wartime posters, this is a fascinating and readable account of a key period in our history.

 Mid-Victorian Britain by Christine Garwood

A great strength of the Shire Living Histories lies in their abundant use of contemporary illustrative material - this really brings the books to life. This book covers a period of huge technological change and shows how this impacted on the life of everyday people. It was a period of huge social change too and this is clearly described in this book. Excellent background reading for school studies of the period because we need to understand and appreciate the lives of 'ordinary' people in order to give meaning to worldwide events. a fascinating insight into Victorian life - take plenty of time to absorb the detail of all the illustrations.

 A History of Britain Book 2: The Normans, Magna Carta and Black Death by Carter and Mears

This is the second in a comprehensive set of textbooks covering British history from the time of the Celts to 1951.  This title takes us through the momentous events of 1066 to the end of the Middle Ages. The series, packed with information, overcomes the problem, lamented by many, that history is no longer taught chronologically. Each event is clearly placed in its historical context rather than appearing as an isolated incident, thus the causes and effects are more clearly understood. The series is a reissue of the classic textbooks from the 1930s. The books are illustrated with black and white portraits and maps. An ideal read for the serious student of history wanting a complete overview of the history of our islands in a narrative style. A good reference for supporting history studies at all levels. First in the series is: A History of Britain book I, The Celts, Romans and Anglo-Saxons to 1066

 A History of Britain Book 4: The Age of Reason and the Industrial Revolution by Carter and Mears

This book covers a time of great changes in our country.

Look out for the rest in the series:

A History of Britain book III, The Tudors 1485-1603
A History of Britain book IV, The Stuarts 1603 - 1714
History of Britain book VI, The Victorians and the Age of Empire,1837-1901
A History of Britain Book VII, Liberal England, World War and Slump, 1901-1939
A History of Britain Book VIII, The Second World War and its Aftermath, 1939-1951

101 things to do to become a superhero..or an evil genius by Richard Horne and Helen Szirtes

Over 300,000 titles in this series have already been sold, so that is a great recommendation in itself. This perfect sized book for slipping into a pocket has hours of fun for dipping in and out. Learn to conquer your fears; develop a photographic memory; know when someone's lying and 98 other great ideas. Begin your transformation today!.

Shire Living Histories

This is a great series of books which bring history to life through contemporary illustrations. Beautifully illustrated, these will really stimulate an interest in history and are especially useful to support the KS3 syllabus, with their emphasis on source material. Titles include Restoration England, 1920s Britain, Wartime Britain and Mid-Victorian Britain.
Norman England shows the impact that the Norman Conquest had on England and the use of contemporary manuscripts gives a great feel for the period. The gradual taking control by the Normans is clearly shown in the book and the modern-day photos show just how much we owe to the Normans.
Mid-Georgian Britain shows Britain at a time of great change, with the increase in urbanisation, and war an almost constant feature of the age.The book gives a real insight into the way everyday people lived as well as giving an understanding of the national events taking place.
Both these books, like the rest of the series, really are 'Living Histories' and are a fantastic resource, really easy and enjoyable to read  - they should be in all school libraries, both to support the curriculum and to increase everyone's knowledge of the fascinating history of our country..
   

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