1. My Family & Other Animals, Gerald Durrell
More than 50 years after Durrell first published his account of life on Corfu with a menagerie of brothers, sisters and other beasts, this charming classic is as fresh and funny as ever.
Puffin Books, £5.99
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2. The Little Secret, Kate Saunders
A magical adventure that draws children into reading solo thanks to a gripping plot about a forbidden box, in a world where slug steaks are on the menu and spider racing rules OK.
Macmillan Children’s Books, £5.99
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3. Anne of Green Gables, L M Montgomery
With her fiery hair and temper, Anne is a wonderfully human heroine, and this beautifully written work is as entertaining today as it was when first published 100 years ago.
Puffin Classic, £4.99
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4. The Mozart Question, Michael Morpurgo
When a rookie journalist interviews a famous composer, she’s told that she mustn’t ask “the Mozart question”. Beautifully illustrated, this is a moving tale of secrets, lies and the past.
Walker Books, £7.99
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5. Toby Tucker, Val Wilding
Join orphan Toby Tucker on his adventures as he travels back in time. Packed with historical detail and yucky facts, this story about Roman sewers is educational but irreverent.
Egmont Books Ltd, £4.99
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6. The Worst Boy in the World, Eoin Colfer
Will’s battles with his older brother Marty continue as he enters a competition in the hope of being named “the best boy in the world”. Ideal for younger readers.
Puffin Books, £7.99
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7. Clarice Bean, Don’t Look Now, Lauren Child
In the latest instalment of this great series, Clarice’s best friend has moved abroad and there’s a new girl at school whom Clarice doesn’t like. Genuinely funny, with lively illustrations.
Orchard Books, £6.99
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8. Mr Gum and the Goblins, Andy Stanton
Mr Gum is always up to something, and this time he and Billy William the Third have set their sights on Goblin Mountain. Packed with nonsense words and hilarious happenings.
Egmont Books Ltd, £4.99
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9. The Adventures of Tintin Volume 2, Hergé
A bumper book of Tintin is perfect for readers who love adventure. The three great tales in this volume are The Cigars of the Pharaohs, The Blue Lotus, and Tintin in America.
Egmont Books Ltd, £12.99
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10. Horrid Henry, Francesca Simon
The 14th book in this great series sees Horrid Henry up to his usual tricks – trying to win a snowman competition, setting up a makeover business and writing his will. Very funny indeed.
Orion Children’s Books, £4.99
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31 January 2008, Chosen by Rebecca Armstrong
