Tom Tolkien

Gypsy, Roma, Traveller, Showman and Boater books for children and teens Children’s and teen books about Gypsy, Roma, Traveller, Showman and Boater communities range from picture books and poetry to fiction, memoir and history. They explore family, identity, traditions, prejudice, fairgrounds, travelling and life on the waterways.

Picture the children arriving at their first football lesson already knowing the pleasure of kicking a ball around in the garden or at the park. They may not understand every rule, but the game already feels like theirs. Then picture the child whose very first kick takes place in front of a class, where it is immediately obvious who is faster, stronger and more experienced. Reading can create much the same divide.

Thrillers for teens Teen thrillers throw readers into tense, twisty situations – with missing people, secrets and danger around every corner. They’re written for young adults but don’t hold back on drama or pace. These books mess with your head in the best way, tapping into real fears while cranking up the suspense. There’s nothing like a late-night read that leaves you thinking, “Just one more chapter…” right before everything explodes. This list features books by Holly Jackson, Karen M. McManus, E.