Anne Fine masterfully blends humor with profound social issues in her novels, acknowledging that even her works for younger readers often explore the confusing journey of growing up. She aims to portray the struggle through life's chaos as both worthwhile and, at times, hilariously funny. For adult readers, Fine is known for her black comedies, which delve into familiar family dynamics, peeling back layers to expose hidden conflicts and tensions with a mix of horror and delight. Her distinctive approach often highlights the unsettling undercurrents within domestic life.
Everyone's always telling Will to stop making so much noise. That is, until he meets music teacher Mr Brand. He thinks Will's not just noisy but that he has a gift ... Award-winning author Anne Fine returns with a touching, musical story of patience, practice and courage. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant or dyslexic readers aged 8+
He's burned down the family kitchen so now has to spend a week of his summer hols with his uncle Tristram - who's heading off to stay with a new girlfriend - Morning Glory - on a tiny British island.Harry doesn't expect it to be a lot of fun - with just a wacky competition at the end of the week to look forward to. . .
Tuffy doesn't feel wanted at home any more. So what if he broke the new TV? But they're making such a fuss!So Tuffy decides to make a break for it. He bids farewell to the gang - Snowball, Tiger and Bella - and runs away. But starting a new life isn't easy, and soon Tuffy starts to wonder if he's made a terrible mistake . . .
Everyone thinks they know what it's like, going to school. But have you ever wondered what life must be like at a boarding school? A school for young offenders? With her trademark humour, insight, sensitivity and razor-sharp wit, Anne Fine explores these different worlds in a short story collection that will fascinate young readers.
A funny and thought-provoking Little Gem from national treasure Anne Fine, with sensitive and charming artwork by up-and-coming illustration star Vicki Gausden. High quality cream paper and a special easy to read font ensure a smooth read for all.
A classic children's story from former Children's Laureate Anne Fine.Anneli hates art. She doesn't like looking at it or thinking about it. When the paints come out in art class at school, she just can't stand it! Behind a hidden door in her house, Anneli finds a painting that draws her into an extraordinary story. Maybe art isn't so boring after all... A hilarious story about new friends and not giving up.
Boggle hats are the latest craze. Everybody at school wants one - but only Lola has one. So she decides to form a club to show the other children how best to nag their parents into buying them one. Tactics range from the Huffy Nag to the Blazing Tantrum. However, the children soon discover that the best way of all is to say please.
A classic children's story from former Children's Laureate Anne Fine.Gemma doesn't believe a chicken could have written a book. Chickens can't even read! But when Andrew shoes her "The True Story of Harrowing Farm", she can't deny that its scratchy pages look, well, chicken-y. It is the story of a chicken who flies millions of miles, reaching the heights of intergalactic superstardom, to try and save us humans.A heart-warming tale about kindness and bravery.
A charming school story starring a child in a wheelchair.Pip's class is sending big red balloons off to celebrate their school's 100th anniversary. Each balloon has a tag that asks those who find the balloons to tell the class how far they'd gone. One lands just down the road, one is found in the next town but Pip's flies all the way to Buckingham Palace! What's in store for Pip next?
Ralph's relatives come to his house for Christmas and chaos soon follows.
