David Almond Books

All children will love to experience Kate's magical freedom as she changes into a cat and roams the countryside, free to become anyone and do anything, while the moon looks down from the sky, and everyone else is fast asleep.

Master storyteller David Almond’s whimsical story about freedom, imagination, and daring all but soars off the page, paired with exquisite paintings by Laura Carlin.“Go on. Be happy. Off you fly!”A charming tale from a beloved storyteller and award-winning illustrator urges readers of all ages to take chances and find joy. Nanty Solo is new in town and claims she can turn children into birds. Terrified parents forbid the idea, but the children want to fly—they want it very much—and they do. One by one, they approach Nanty Solo. One by one, they are transformed until the sky over town teems with rooks and goldfinches, parakeets and sparrows. The adults take one look and cry, “Get out of that sky this very minute!” But the sight of their offspring—set free to soar, hope, and explore—soon has the grown-ups wondering what it might be like to have wings to fly and a beak to sing. The lilting, dreamy tale, told in David Almond’s inimitable voice and playfully illustrated, assures us it’s never too late to say yes to life.

''Play for all that are gone and for all that are still to come.'' Once the dam is finished, the land will be flooded. But before it is lost forever, Kathyn and her father return to the still and silent valley and fill the empty homes with one final song. And if you listen closely you can still hear it. -- a song for all that was and all that will never be. --Blurb.

Set during a transformative summer, Joff's belief in the mythical Falling Boy is challenged as he confronts new realities. The story explores themes of growth and the power of legends, blending heartfelt narrative with a coming-of-age experience. David Almond, known for his award-winning storytelling, crafts a tale that resonates with fans of Skellig and Michael Morpurgo, promising an unforgettable journey of discovery and imagination.

Stanley Potts is just an ordinary boy, but when all the jobs in Fish Quay disappear his Uncle Ernie develops an extraordinary fascination with canning fish. Suddenly their home is filled with the sound of clanging machinery and the stench of mackerel, and Uncle Ernie's obsession reaches such heights that he would even can Stan's beloved goldfish!

Set against the backdrop of a traditional Irish tale, the story follows a young boy named Kevin, sent to a monastery during hard times. While he learns under the monks' care, he longs for the freedom of nature. His connection to two blackbirds symbolizes his yearning for the outside world. As he nurtures their eggs, he discovers the importance of letting go when the chicks finally take flight. This beautifully illustrated collaboration highlights themes of love for nature and the bittersweet nature of release.

Annie Lumsden feels out of place among other girls, struggling with words and numbers while finding solace in the sea and its stories. Her mother believes Annie is meant for the water, often remarking she should have been a fish. When a mysterious stranger arrives, captivated by Annie's unique spirit, she begins to embrace her identity, realizing her connection to the ocean may be deeper than she thought. This enchanting tale explores themes of self-discovery and belonging, beautifully illustrated by a renowned artist.

From the bestselling, award-winning author of SKELLIG comes a vivid and moving story, beautifully illustrated, which commemorates the hundred-year anniversary of the end of the First World War. "I am just a child," says John. "How can I be at war?" It's 1918, and war is everywhere. John's dad is fighting in the trenches far away in France. His mum works in the munitions factory just along the road. His teacher says that John is fighting, too, that he is at war with enemy children in Germany. One day, in the wild woods outside town, John has an impossible moment: a meeting with a German boy named Jan. John catches a glimpse of a better world, in which children like Jan and himself can come together, and scatter the seeds of peace. Gorgeously illustrated by David Litchfield, this is a book to treasure.

Exploring themes of imagination and trust, this story weaves a warm and wistful narrative reminiscent of classic tales like Pinocchio. The protagonist, a puppet, embodies the mysteries of existence, prompting reflections on the nature of reality and belief. Through Almond's unique storytelling, readers are invited to embrace the idea that anything is possible when fueled by creativity and faith.

A charming, warm and witty tale from a master storyteller, winner of the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award and author of the Carnegie Medal-winning Skellig. George is not like any other kids in the class, or in fact like anyone Dan or his mates have ever met before. But George turns out to be clever and funny, and everyone soon forgets his oddness ... until a shocking truth comes to light. George is a robot! In fact he is part of an ambitious new experiment in robot-kind. But the experiment is in danger, and there are people out to destroy him. Can Dan, Maxie, Billy and Louise rescue their new pal from obliteration?

Award-winning author David Almond reintroduces readers to the perceptive, sensitive Mina before the events of Skellig in this lyrical and fantastical work. My Name is Mina is not only a pleasure to read, it is an intimate and enlightening look at a character whose open mind and heart have much to teach us about life, love, and the mysteries that surround us. Mina loves the night. While everyone else is in a deep slumber, she gazes out the window, witness to the moon's silvery light. In the stillness, she can even hear her own heart beating. This is when Mina feels that anything is possible and her imagination is set free. A blank notebook lies on the table. It has been there for what seems like forever. Mina has proclaimed in the past that she will use it as a journal, and one night, at last, she begins to do just that. As she writes, Mina makes discoveries both trivial and profound about herself and her world, her thoughts and her dreams.

These beautifully-written stories grow out of David Almond's childhood in the streets and fields of Tyneside. They're funny and sad, realistic and strange, and are suffused with a profound sense of mystery and wonder. They show that the ordinary world is filled with extraordinary possibilities, that the local really does contain the universal. In Counting Stars David Almond tackles the themes common to his work - joy, darkness, love, death and identity - with exquisite sensitivity and tenderness. A must-read for Almond fans everywhere. From the author of the modern children's classic Skellig - winner of the Carnegie Medal and the Whitbread Children's Book Award. David Almond won the 2015 Guardian Children's Book Prize with A Song for Ella Grey.

Joe Maloney is out of place in this world. His once-loving mother has fallen under the influence of her boyfriend, whose presence overshadows Joe's every move. His friend Stanny thinks that Joe should toughen up with a weekend in the wilderness.

Adapted by the author from his award-winning debut novel, and staged at the National Theatre, directed by Trevor Nunn and performed by an all-star cast in 2002.

Imagine you wrote a story and that story came true. This is exactly what happens to Blue Baker when he writes about a savage living alone in the woods near his home. After his dad's death, Blue finds comfort in dreaming of a wild kid who survives on a diet of berries and the occasional hapless passer-by. But when the savage pays a night-time visit to the local bully, boundaries become blurred and Blue begins to wonder where he ends and the savage begins. Part novel, part graphic novel, this moving story features striking art from the award-winning Dave McKean.

A stunning new story from the bestselling, prize-winning David Almond, unfolding the magic of the everyday. Mina, from the unforgettable Skellig and My Name is Mina, journeys to Japan and discovers the wonders of the world around her.

Erin Law and her friends are Damaged Children. At least that is the label given to them by Maureen, the woman who runs the orphanage that they live in. Damaged, Beyond Repair because they have no parents to take care of them. But Erin knows that if they care for each other they can put up with the psychologists, the social workers, the therapists -- at least most of the time. Sometimes there is nothing left but to run away, to run for freedom. And that is what Erin and two friends do, run away one night downriver on a raft. What they find on their journey is stranger than you can imagine, maybe, and you might not think it's true. But Erin will tell you it is all true. And the proof is a girl named Heaven Eyes, who sees through all the darkness in the world to the joy that lies beneath.

The narrative captures a moment of anticipation and excitement, likely reflecting a character's eagerness or thrill. The repetitive questioning suggests a playful or childlike perspective, emphasizing a desire for freedom or elevation. This intriguing line hints at themes of adventure, joy, and perhaps a journey of self-discovery or liberation. The tone invites readers to engage with the character's emotions and experiences, promising a whimsical exploration of life's highs and lows.

This ode to the power of imagination and sky-high courage takes readers on an out-of-this-world adventure as Joe and his dad put their heads and hearts together to reach for the stars--a tireless quest to reach the unreachable.

The story delves into Joe's haunting experiences with a poltergeist, which he believes is intertwined with the memory of his deceased sister. His only ally in this supernatural ordeal is his friend Davie, who supports Joe's claims. The collaboration between David Almond and artist Dave McKean enhances the narrative, creating a dark and evocative atmosphere that explores themes of grief and friendship.

The new stand-alone novel from David Almond - Bone Music is a timely masterpiece that explores the connections between the past and the present, between civilisation and wilderness. At its heart is the unforgettable Sylvia Carr, who moves from city to the forest and is 'rewilded'.

A hopeful and moving coming-of-age story set on the island of Lindisfarne, by David Almond, author of the prize-winning Skellig and A Song for Ella Grey. Sixteen-year old Louise travels with her father to the island of Lindisfarne every year ever since she can remember - it's the place Louise's mother loved best of all. The arrival of Hassan from war-torn Syria changes everything. Louise is restless and yearning for independence, and the fiercely free and self-reliant Hassan fascinates her. He seems to know the island from long ago as if it were his home from birth. Hassan is an acrobat, maybe a sorcerer, possibly a source of great danger. The wild gang of boys who call the island their home want to cast him out. The forces of love, death and hope move Louise and Hassan towards a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in a world that is both cruel and compassionate. Lindisfarne will change their lives forever. David Almond is the author of many beloved and prize-winning books for children and teenagers. His best known work, Skellig, won the Whitbread Children's Award and the Carnegie Medal and was made into a feature-length film. A Song for Ella Grey, a beautiful retelling of the myth of Orpheus, won the Guardian Children's Book Prize 2015.

Led to an abandoned baby by a raven, fourteen-year-old Liam seems fated to meet two foster children who have experienced the world's violence in very different ways as he struggles to understand war, family problems, and friends who grow apart. Suggested level: secondary.

Some of the world's favourite authors each contribute a chapter in the life of the mysterious George 'Gee' Keane, photographer, soldier, adventurer and enigma. Under different pens, a startling picture emerges of a man who magically connects the lives and times of young people around the world . . .

A magical retelling of the Orpheus myth, full of music, sound and storytelling, adapted from the novel by David Almond. Premiered by Pilot Theatre on UK tour in 2024.

An unabridged reading of David Almond's exceptional novel. Winner of the Smarties Prize and Whitbread Award. Read by the author.

This is a moving, funny and inspirational novel from the bestselling author of Skellig. Shortlisted for the 2018 Costa Book Awards.

With fascination, Davie and his best friend Geordie watch the arrival of a new boy in their town. His history is a mystery - he seems to have come from nowhere, and when he arrives to live with his distant aunt, the local 'loony', 'Crazy Mary', no one envies him his new home.

In this dark and powerful collection, David Almond presents a series of 'living' stories inspired by his childhood that capture the imagination.

Was wäre, wenn die ganze Welt unter Wasser stünde? Wenn die Zivilisation verschwunden wäre und stattdessen Delfine, Mondfische und Blauwale durch leere Städte schwimmen würden? In einem ganz besonderen Gedankenexperiment lassen Dieter Wiesmüller und David Almond die Menschheit versinken und Meeresbewohner über uns sinnieren. Die Freiheitsstatue in New York, Michelangelos David in Rom genauso wie die Londoner Tower Bridge: Baudenkmäler verraten die Geheimnisse unserer Menschheit. Brücken, die einst von Menschen überquert wurden, dienen nun Delfinen als Spielwiese. Wo sich früher Leute an Brunnen versammelt haben, tummeln sich nun Mondfische und Blauwale. Am Anblick der Statuen, von Menschenhand erschaffen, erfreuen sich jetzt Haifische und Seemuscheln. Was werden sie über die Menschen erzählen in ihren Liedern und Legenden, in ihren Unterwasserträumen? Die Künstler regen in ihrem atemberaubenden Buchkunstwerk zum Philosophieren über eine blau-grüne Zukunft nach unserer Zeit an. Die berühmtesten Monumente der Menschheit aus faszinierend neuer Perspektive!

Drei Heimkinder suchen mit einem Floß die Freiheit. Bald treiben sie ans Ufer eines verlassenen Industriegeländes und stoßen auf ein Mädchen und einen merkwürdigen alten Mann. Ein rätselhafter Ort, eine sonderbare Begegnung. Allmählich kommen die Kinder einem düsteren Geheimnis auf die Spur. Am Ende kehren sie gemeinsam mit ihrer neuen Freundin ins Heim zurück - und verhelfen ihr zu einer Art Rückkehr ins Leben.

Claire ist Ellas beste Freundin und wird Zeugin von Ellas leidenschaftlicher Liebe zu dem Musiker Orpheus, den sie an den Stränden von Northumberland trifft. Ein mysteriöser Fremder fasziniert alle mit seinem Gesang. Nach einem dramatischen Vorfall entfaltet sich die schmerzhafte und grenzenlose Liebe zwischen Ella und Orpheus.

Mehr Minas braucht die Welt! Mina ist anders als die anderen Kinder. Nachdenklich, fantasievoll und rebellisch, eckt sie immer wieder an, denn sie stellt viele ungewöhnliche Fragen: über Liebe, Freundschaft, Trauer, Vorschriften und das Leben. Sie schreibt alle ihre Gedanken in ein Notizbuch - es ist Minas Blick auf die Welt in ihren Worten. Das ist Minas Tagebuch. Das sind ihre Geschichten und Träume, Beobachtungen und Gefühle, ihre Kritzeleien und Wortspiele, ihr Unsinn, ihre Gedichte und Lieder. Und mit ihren Fragen stellt sie auch unsere! In diesem gefühlvollen, ungewöhnlichen Buch (auch optisch!) lässt David Almond Mina die Hauptrolle spielen - bevor sie Michael kennenlernt und bevor beide Skellig begegnen.

Příběh pro dospívající o přátelství, které nezná předsudky Třináctiletý Kit Watson je ve Stoneygate nový. Brzy se ale přidává k partě vrstevníků, které vede zvláštní kluk John Askew. Hrají v opuštěných dolech hru na smrt – na koho padne los, ten musí strávit noc v jámě vleže jako nebožtík a potom ostatním vyprávět o svých zážitcích. Kita hra zasáhne obzvlášť silně – upadne do stavu bezvědomí a kolem sebe vidí přízraky dětí, které tu kdysi zahynuly při důlním neštěstí. Jedno se jmenovalo stejně jako on…

Bert jezdí s autobusem, jeho žena Betynka je školní kuchařka. A těmhle dvěma přibude na stará kolena do domácnosti andílek. Dají mu jméno Andělín. To si jednou Bert takhle šoféruje a andílka najde v náprsní kapse. Bertovým a Betynčiným přátelům připadá rozkošný. Páťákům Nele, Jeníkovi a Alici zrovna tak. Andělín je učiněný zázrak! Jiní ovšem tak nadšení nejsou. Třeba výkonná ředitelka Krtková. Nebo profesor Zápuch. Ani tajemný číman v černém, který se vydává za školního inspektora. A pak je tu hromotluk Béďa Buchar – ten Andělínovi vyloženě nemůže přijít na jméno. A vypadá to, že jde andílkovi po krku…

Je ľahké utiecť z domova pre opustené a problémové deti. Erin a jej kamarát Január to robia stále. Ale tentoraz pôjdu dolu riekou. Tentoraz sa možno vôbec nevrátia. Idú hľadať svoj malý kúsok Raja. Miesto, kde sa budú cítiť v bezpečí, slobodní a milovaní. Ako mohli tušiť, že tam nájdu Nebeské oči? Dievča so zvláštnym menom, ktoré sa malo utopiť v mori, dievča zachránené z bahna. Dievča s tajnou minulosťou, ktorú pozná len Starký. A ten nič neprezradí...