Michael Symmons Roberts’s fourth book of poetry, Corpus, was the winner of the 2004 Whitbread Poetry Award, and was shortlisted for the T. S. Eliot Prize, the Forward Prize, and the Griffin International Prize. His sixth collection, Drysalter, was the winner of both the Forward Prize and the Costa Poetry Prize in 2013. He collaborated with Paul Farley on Edgelands (Cape/Vintage) and will do so again in The Deaths of the Poets (Cape, 2017). He has also worked many times with the composer James MacMillan. He has published two novels, and is Professor of Poetry at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Michael Symmons Roberts

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Antoine De Saint-Exupery

Robert Powell stars as the Aviator with Garrett Moore as the Little Prince and Bernard Cribbins as the King in this BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisation of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s popular fable. This poignant dramatisation of the French classic was translated and dramatised by Bonnie Greer. 
 
When he crashes in the Sahara Desert, the Aviator believes he is all alone – until he meets an unusual space traveller: a boy with golden hair who calls himself The Little Prince. As the Aviator repairs his plane, the Little Prince tells him fantastical tales about his amazing interplanetary journey. On his home planet, asteroid B-612, he fell in love with a beautiful rose, but left her to explore the universe. In the course of his travels, he has met people including a King, a drunkard and a lamplighter, as well as a snake and a wise fox – but now he must return home and be reunited with his rose... 
 
A classic story about love, friendship and loss, The Little Prince is one of the most read books in the world. The wonder and excitement of much-loved children’s classics lives on in BBC Radio’s acclaimed full-cast dramatisations, complete with evocative music and sound effects.

The Little Prince

Raj Kaur Khaira

Discover the inspirational lives of fifty women from across South Asia - the perfect present for all supergirls in the making 
 
Through the fascinating, empowering life stories of 50 famous and under-celebrated women from Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka, South Asian girls will have a chance to dream about lives for themselves that radically differ from the limited narratives and stereotypes written for them by their culture, wider society and the mainstream media. 
 
Brigng together the stories of leading entertainers (Meera Syal, Jameela Jamil, Mindy Kaling), pioneering business leaders (indra Nooyi, Anjali Sud, Ruchi Sanghvi) and a whole host of other equally remarkable but less well known figurers - from British Muslim spy Noor Inayat Khan to fearless activist Jayaben Desai - this book seeks to redress the imbalance for young girls of colour by empowering them to break new ground for themselves and inspire others along the way. 
 
Beautifully illustrated with striking portraits by ten international South Asian female artists, this is truly a book for all ages - a gift to be treasured by parents and children alike.

Stories for South Asian Supergirls

Charles Kingsley

Timothy West, Julia McKenzie and Oliver Peace star in this BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisation of Charles Kingsley’s classic tale of a chimney sweep who becomes a water baby. 
 
Forced up the chimneys of Hartover Hall by his cruel master, Grimes, young Tom gets lost and comes down the wrong one, frightening little Miss Ellie. In the chase that follows, he is rescued by the fairies and taken to be a water baby under the waves. There, he makes friends with sea creatures such as the Lobster and meets the beautiful, kind fairy Mrs Doasyouwouldbedoneby and her ugly, unpleasant sister Mrs Bedonebyasyoudid. When he is introduced to the other Water Babies, he is reunited with Ellie, who has also been transformed. With her support, he sets off on a quest to the Other-End-Of-Nowhere. But first he must find Mother Carey’s peace pool – and help out the last person he wants to save: his former master... 
 
Oliver Peace stars as Tom, with Timothy West as Charles Kingsley and Julia McKenzie as Mrs Doasyouwouldbedoneby and Mrs Bedonebyasyoudid. Dramatised by Berlie Doherty. The wonder and excitement of much-loved children’s classics lives on in BBC Radio’s acclaimed full-cast dramatisations, complete with evocative music and sound effects.

The Water Babies

Kes Gray

The BRAND NEW laugh-out-loud new Daisy adventure, from bestselling author of the Oi Frog series, Kes Gray. 
 
Here comes trouble! 
 
Daisy and her class are so excited when their new school nature garden is unveiled. 
 
But the trouble with their nature garden is, there's not very much nature in it. 
 
There are NO: 
 
Birds 
Butterflies 
Grizzly Bears 
Wolverines 
 
If there’s one thing Daisy HATES it’s waiting. Especially waiting for nature to appear. Luckily, she’s going camping with Gabby, and will find LOTS of nature to bring back. 
 
Only, the trouble with nature is, it’s really hard to control…

Daisy and the Trouble with Nature

Babette Cole

Meet Doctor Dog, he's the Gumboyle family's favourite pet and their very own trusty physician. When Doctor Dog jets off to a medical conference in Brazil the Guimboyles decide they can't survive without him and so he returns to rescue them from all sorts of ailments: itchy nits, tickly tonsils and worms to name but a few. . .

Dr Dog

Sara Vogler

Jan Burchett

MAKE SOME NOISE - Max and Ben are going on a school trip to the library and can't wait to meet Troy Brawn, the coolest spy book author ever. But there's a disaster! Troy doesn't turn up and the boys end up stuck in a super-girly, super-boring talk instead - yuck! Can the Gargoyles do anything to help? And what about their new friend - will he leave his books and peace and quiet behind and join the boys in playing some pranks?

Gargoylz Make Some Noise

John Burningham

Every day, John Patrick sets off along the road to school, and although he hurries, strange and improbable happenings repeatedly make him late. To make things worse, his teacher never believes his story.

John Patrick Norman McHennessy

The Boy Who Was Always Late

Allan Ahlberg

Penguin presents Happy Families: The Audio Collection by Allan Ahlberg, read by Alexander Armstrong. 
Families come in all shapes and sizes, big ones, small ones, funny ones and even silly ones. In this first ever audio collection you can discover the story of Mrs Wobble the Waitress, Mr Biff the Boxer, Miss Dirt the Dustman's Daughter and many more of Allan Ahlberg's beloved Happy Families. 
 
This audio collection features 11 classic tales brought to life with original music and dazzling sound effects, all read in Alexander Armstrong's unique style. 
 
'Happy Families are the best thing to happen to beginner readers since Dr Seuss' - Children's Rights Workshop.

Happy Families: The Audio Collection

Jeremy Strong

It's the first day at PIRATE SCHOOL for Ziggy, Smudge, Carkella and Flo and they have lots of new things to contend with.  Their headteacher is the scary Patagonia Clasterbotton and they have to take lessons include walking the plank and hand-to-hand fighting.  When out on the pirate ship a storm blows up, resulting in the children having to rescue Patagonia when she's swept overboard, and they learn that really  Patagonia is not so scary after all!

Pirate School: Just a Bit of Wind

Jacqueline Harvey

Clementine Rose was delivered not in the usual way, at a hospital, but in the back of a mini-van, in a basket of dinner rolls. 
 
So begins the story of a very special little girl. Clementine Rose grows up with her adopted mother, Lady Clarissa, their butler, Digby Pertwhistle, and a very tiny teacup pig named Lavender. When Clementine's scary Aunt Violet visits, the household is thrown into disarray. What is it that Aunt Violet really wants, and what is she hiding in her mysterious black bag?

Clementine Rose and the Surprise Visitor

Sue Bentley

The magic continues in a new series from the author of the bestselling Magic Kitten! 
 
Adorable silver-blue bunny Arrow is the keeper of the magic key that keeps Moonglow Meadow lush and beautiful so that many bunnies can live there happily. But the key is under threat and so Arrow must flee the meadow to keep it safe and hide in our world. 
 
Can Arrow find a little girl to look after him and be a special friend?

Magic Bunny: Classroom Capers

Linda Chapman

Unicorn School is all abuzz with the news that there is going to be a school production of Sleeping Beauty. Willow is very excited by the news and dreams of playing the leading role. Her best friend Sapphire shyly confesses that she would like to try for the main part, too. Willow faces a big disappointment, but also learns a valuable lesson when Sapphire finds the courage to go on stage.

Unicorn School: The School Play

Daisy can't believe it! Mrs Peters is making her sit next to Jack Beechwhistle - the worst boy in the school, and possibly the whole world! 
 
Jack is so mad! Mrs Peters is making him sit next to Daisy Butters - she's such an annoying blabber! 
 
As the school day goes on, Daisy and Jack think of more and more ways to get one up on each other. Then they both have a brilliant idea! 
 
Trouble is, Daisy and Jack might be more alike than they realized . . . 
 
A funny, mischievous and totally troublesome tale for girls and boys, written and published specially for World Book Day 2016.

Daisy and the Trouble With Jack

Max has got his hands on a video camera and he and Ben have big plans to make their very own movie - with the Gargoylz in starring roles, of course! But will bully, Barry the Basher, spoil the show, or can the boys outwit him with the help of the Gargoylz and a super-cunning secret plan? 
 
GARGOYLZ ARE VERY NAUGHTY AND WON'T KEEP STILL FOR LONG. THEREFORE, THE TOY INCLUDED MAY NOT BE EXACTLY AS SHOWN.

Gargoylz Make a Movie

Sandi Toksvig

When Jessica brings her granny into school for 'Unusual Day' Miss Johnson thinks she's got muddled up with 'Family Day'. Her granny may be wearing a tracksuit and trainers, but she still looks like a fairly ordinary granny. However, when 'Unusual Day' is disrupted by a fire next door, everybody discovers just how unusual Jessica's granny is...

Unusual Day

Ladybird

Brought to you by Ladybird. 
 
Winner of The FutureBook of the Year Award 2019 and Week Junior Audiobook of the Year 2023. 
 
Meet our fearless adventurers Cassandra, Otto and Missy AKA the smartest raven in the universe as they set out on their next action-packed Ladybird Audio Adventure! 
 
It’s an emergency! Join brave heroes as they ride fire engines, patrol in police cars, rush to save lives in ambulances, and navigate the waters in a high-speed rescue motorboat. We’ll also be out on a trek with an amazing mountain rescue team, with their loyal Bernese Mountain Dogs. 
 
These audiobooks help children learn about their environment on a journey of discovery with narrators Ben Bailey Smith (a.k.a. Doc Brown, rapper, comedian and writer) Sophie Alred (Dr Who) and Kristin Atherton as Missy. 
 
Ladybird Audio Adventures is an award-winning original series for three to seven year-olds; an entertaining and engaging way for children to learn about the world around them. These are special stories written exclusively for audio, so little ones can become their own adventurers with fun sound and musical effects that are perfect for listening at home, before bed and on long journeys. 
 
Have you listened to our other Audio Adventures? Predators, Ancient Greece, Explorers, Cool Constructions and Amazing Asia are available now.

Ladybird Audio Adventures: Emergency Services

Shirley Hughes

Shirley Hughes is one of the best known and most popular creators of children's books, and her keen observation of family life have earned her a special place in the hearts of children and adults. This unique collection brings together some of her very best work and celebrates her amazing achievements over the years. There's a wealth of treasure for children of all ages to enjoy, beginning with a selection of simple rhymes and stories and moving on to some of Shirley's classic picture books featuring such well-loved favourites as Dogger, Alfie and Annie Rose. Enjoy stories from My Naughty Little Sister as well as a wealth of other characters. There's also a selection of stories for older readers including The Lion and the Unicorn and Enchantment in the Garden, which combine satisfyingly longer texts with marvellously expansive pictures. Shirley Hughes' warmth and versatility shine from every page of this stunning collection which will captivate readers of all ages and take pride of place on the family bookshelf.

The Shirley Hughes Collection

Ian Cunliffe

A very funny story about the children at Pirate School. Fourth in the series within Colour Young Puffins. The children are planning to raid Patagonia Clatterbottom's food store - but grown-up pirates, the Woppagobs, are trying to steal the goodies as well. But the children outwit them all, particularly when Ziggy brings out his bun gun - a cannon that fires sticky buns and doughnuts.

Pirate School: The Bun Gun

How will Dixie and Percy cope with the whizzing world of bicycles? And with a new friend coming between them, could there be trouble in store for our two heroes? 
 
Expect crashes, smashes, bumps and bangs as our dashing duo race off on a new challenge... 
 
These first chapter books from mother-daughter pairing Shirley Hughes and Clara Vulliamy have one chapter for each night of the week and are full of maps, and fun extra activities. 
 
“A witty and beautifully designed series for emerging readers” THE SUNDAY TIMES

Dixie O'Day on his Bike

The third very funny story about the children at pirate school. The children hide a stray dog on board, while Patagonia Clatterbottom, the head teacher, is plagued by school inspectors, who are not impressed by the lessons. So, the children decide to sail the school away. The inspectors give chase, but the children fire on their boat and take it over - full marks for the lessons they have learnt about being pirates. And they're allowed to keep the dog!

Pirate School: Where's That Dog?

Max and Ben are in the school play, and the Gargoylz are very excited. But will Ben remember his lines? Will the wolf costume be fierce enough? And what happens when the Gargoylz decide they want 
starring roles too? 
 
The show must go on! So join Max, Ben and the Gargoylz in four fun new adventures inside this book! 
 
GARGOYLZ ARE VERY NAUGHTY AND WON'T KEEP STILL FOR LONG. THEREFORE, THE TOY INCLUDED MAY NOT BE EXACTLY AS SHOWN.

Gargoylz Put On a Show

Tony Bradman

Class Three are the worst class ever. They do lots of crashing and bashing, nose-picking and flicking, fighting and fidgeting. Their teacher, Miss Nicely, is very fed up. But then Miss Shade - the Ghost Teacher - pays them a visit . . . 
 
Class Three are waiting to meet their new teacher. Thud! Thud! Somebody is heading towards the classroom. Somebody who's very, very big . . . it's the Frankenstein Teacher!

Spooky Teachers

Max and Ben are off for an awesome adventure in the woods - going camping with their favourite Gargoyle friendz! A scary story about a monster that lives nearby has spooked the Gargoylz, and Max and Ben want to investigate. . .  But will bully Barry the Basher meet the monster first?

Gargoylz: Wild in the Woods

Mairi Hedderwick

Welcome to the Island of Struay, home of one of the best-loved characters in children's books and as seen on TV - Katie Morag McColl! 
 
Everyone is excited about the new ballet and tap classes. Everyone, that is, except Katie Morag! But the two grandmothers have decided - she will go to ballet and she will wear a frilly skirt! What is Katie Morag going to do?

Katie Morag and the Dancing Class

Peter Kavanagh

Look...there by the dustbins, what do you see? A shimmering and a glimmering, and a figure forming in the darkness. It is the Ghost Teacher... 
 
Class 3 are the worst class ever. They do lots of crashing and bashing, nose-picking and flicking, fighting and fidgeting. No teacher can control Class 3. Until Miss Shade - the Ghost Teacher - pays them a visit...

The Ghost Teacher

Brought to you by Ladybird. 
 
Winner of The FutureBook of the Year Award 2019 and Week Junior Audiobook of the Year 2023. 
 
Meet our fearless adventurers Cassandra, Otto and Missy AKA the smartest raven in the universe as they set out on their next action-packed Ladybird Audio Adventure! 
 
Slither into a wild adventure with Ladybird Audio Adventures! Join our fearless explorers as they journey down the Nile, encountering a menagerie of reptiles. From the hiss-terical antics of snakes, the leap-tastic lizards, and the jaw-dropping crocodiles, every moment is packed with excitement. And don't forget the dino-mite dinosaurs that add a prehistoric twist to this new adventure! 
 
These audiobooks help children learn about their environment on a journey of discovery with narrators Ben Bailey Smith (a.k.a. Doc Brown, rapper, comedian and writer) Sophie Alred (Dr Who) and Kristin Atherton as Missy. 
 
Ladybird Audio Adventures is an award-winning original series for three to seven year-olds; an entertaining and engaging way for children to learn about the world around them. These are special stories written exclusively for audio, so little ones can become their own adventurers with fun sound and musical effects that are perfect for listening at home, before bed and on long journeys. 
 
Have you listened to our other Audio Adventures? Predators, Ancient Greece, Explorers, Cool Constructions and Amazing Asia are available now. 
 
©2026 Ladybird (P)2026 Penguin Audio

Ladybird Audio Adventures: Reptiles

Pat Hutchins

'Six farm eggs, a cake for tea, a pound of pears and don't forget the bacon.'A young boy sets out to do the shopping, determined to remember his simple list but as the sights and sounds of town distract him he finds himself in a terrible muddle.

Don't Forget The Bacon

It's the first day of term at Unicorn School and little Willow is feeling rather nervous and excited, but she soon settles in and makes new friends. Life at school is full of fun and adventure, but one day an older unicorn plays a mean trick on Storm and lands him in big trouble. Willow is determined to help her friend, even if it means putting herself in danger &ndash; after all, isn't that what friends are for?

Unicorn School: First Class Friends

Brought to you by Ladybird. 
 
Winner of The FutureBook of the Year Award 2019 and Week Junior Audiobook of the Year 2023. 
 
Meet our fearless adventurers Cassandra, Otto and Missy AKA the smartest raven in the universe as they set out on their next action-packed Ladybird Audio Adventure! 
 
Embark on a vibrant journey with Ladybird Audio Adventures as we explore the wonders of South America! Soar above the iconic Christ the Redeemer in Rio, trek through the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, and experience the thrill of adventure from the skies. Dive into the rich cultures and traditions that this amazing continent has to offer, and embrace the spirit of adventure, backpacking through diverse landscapes and learning about incredible people. 
 
These audiobooks help children learn about their environment on a journey of discovery with narrators Ben Bailey Smith (a.k.a. Doc Brown, rapper, comedian and writer) Sophie Alred (Dr Who) and Kristin Atherton as Missy. 
 
Ladybird Audio Adventures is an award-winning original series for three to seven year-olds; an entertaining and engaging way for children to learn about the world around them. These are special stories written exclusively for audio, so little ones can become their own adventurers with fun sound and musical effects that are perfect for listening at home, before bed and on long journeys. 
 
Have you listened to our other Audio Adventures? Predators, Ancient Greece, Explorers, Cool Constructions and Amazing Asia are available now.

Ladybird Audio Adventures: South America

Natalia O’Hara

Lauren O'Hara

"O Bandit Queen!" the bandits cried. 
"Little horror! Poison weed! 
We'll give you everything a queen could ever need..." 
 
The bandits give their queen treasure, tigers, mischief and mayhem. But sometimes a little girl needs something more... 
 
A book about finding family in unexpected places, from the creators of Hortense and the Shadow.

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