Contains five stories from the Picture Book series.
Lesley Sims Books






Listen and Read: The Three Little Pigs
- 12 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Three little pigs are setting out to build houses with wispy straw, wibbly-wobbly sticks and good strong bricks. Will a cheeky little wolf manage to blow any of them down? A charming retelling of the much-loved tale, with a child-friendly ending and beautiful illustrations by Raffaella Ligi throughout.
A broad range of story styles, all with lively readable text and fully illustrated, encouraging children to find the topics they enjoy the most, and also try something different from time to time. Usborne Young Reading Collection This just may be the independent reading for young readers carefully crafted Usborne Young Reading Collection (Usborne classics collection) definitely meet little bookworm books hidden! A full full collection of forty books, each book is independent of content. Before twenty-five book contains several stories each the same topic, covering a wide range of knowledge, encompassing themes, language interesting, beautifully illustrated humor. After fifteen books are world classics, reading classics can cultivate children's literature, to do a good poetry talent teenager - Usborne young reading series For children beginning to read independently and Design Usborne young readers in this series is already a primary book chapters, each book has chapters 5-8 Chapte
A broad range of story styles, all with lively readable text and fully illustrated, encouraging children to find the topics they enjoy the most, and also try something different from time to time. Usborne Young Reading Collection This just may be the independent reading for young readers carefully crafted Usborne Young Reading Collection (Usborne classics collection) definitely meet little bookworm books hidden! A full full collection of forty books, each book is independent of content. Before twenty-five book contains several stories each the same topic, covering a wide range of knowledge, encompassing themes, language interesting, beautifully illustrated humor. After fifteen books are world classics, reading classics can cultivate children's literature, to do a good poetry talent teenager - Usborne young reading series For children beginning to read independently and Design Usborne young readers in this series is already a primary book chapters, each book has chapters 5-8 Chapte
Giraffe in the Bath and Other Tales
- 144 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Six stories from the popular Phonics Readers series come together in this colourful and engaging collection. Alongside the title character, there's a hyena ballerina, a spider in a glider, and a seal at the wheel. Not to mention a cheeky chimp with a limp and an ape planning a great escape, all topped off by a series of fun puzzles. // Attention: If no attachments (CDs, booklets etc.) are shown in the photo, they are not included.
One Little Frog
- 14 pages
- 1 hour of reading
How does a little blob floating in jelly turn into a hopping, croaking frog? This inventive information book, specially written for little children and with interactive holes, is perfect for a first introduction to the wonders of nature.
10 More Ten-Minute Stories
- 256 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Following the success of 10 Ten-Minute Stories, this book provides further bite-sized reading opportunities, based on the research that reading or being read to for ten minutes every day will significantly improve children’s reading skills. This short story collection supports this – each story taking about ten minutes to read. Ideal for sharing with younger children; as children learn to read on their own they can tackle these simple stories on their own.
The Snow Queen
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
This wintry tale has warmed the hearts of children around the world for almost 200 years. It was written by master storyteller Hans Christian Andersen (1805--1875). The tale describes the amazing adventures of Gerda, who goes off in search of her friend Kay after the Snow Queen takes him away. The illustrations to the book were created by Vladyslav Yerko, a well-known Ukrainian illustrator and recipient of many awards at prestigious art and book fairs. He also received the title "Man of Books" when he was named best artist for 2002 by the Moscow "Book Review." His illustrations became widely known through his work on the books of Paulo Coelho and his work on Andersen's The Snow Queen, which won the Grand Prix award in the "Book of the Year" competition for 2000. Well-known writer Paulo Coelho said of Yerko's The Snow Queen: "This is the most wonderful children's book I've seen in my life."
Illustrated stories from around the world
- 336 pages
- 12 hours of reading
A wonderful collection of ten folktales specially chosen from around the globe. Stories are The Baobab Tree, Baba Yaga the Flying Witch, The Stonecutter, Dick Whittington, The Three Wishes, The Fish that Talked, King Midas and the Golden Touch, Brer Rabbit Down the Well, The Magic Pear Tree and Genie in the Bottle. Each story is brilliantly illustrated by artists from the Usborne Young Reading Programme.
The Twelve Days of Christmas
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
'On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent to me a partridge in a pear tree...' The lyrics to this well-known, traditional Christmas song, have been transformed into a brightly coloured picture book, with illustrations by Moldovan artist Violeta Dabija.
Beautifully illustrated stories which engage children and start their love of reading. These amazingly constructed stories use phonics-based reading as a tool to help with your children reading at an early age. Recommended 5-7 paperback Usborne Publishing English Ted's shed Toad makes a road Shark in the park Big pig on a dig Goose on the loose Mouse moves house Sam sheep can't sleep Fat cat on a mat Fox on a box Hen's Pens Ted in a red bed Frog on a log
Unicorns in uniforms and other stories
- 120 pages
- 5 hours of reading
This collection features five humorous rhyming stories that promise to entertain young readers. Adventures include a whimsical stay at a unicorn hotel, a water park escapade with playful skunks, and an exhilarating flight in Spider's glider. Readers will also join Lizard at the beach as he invents and dive underwater to enjoy Whale's tall tale. Each story is crafted to spark imagination and make reading a joyful experience for beginners.
Illustrated Stories from the Greek Myths
- 352 pages
- 13 hours of reading
This collection features six classic Greek myths and legends, including tales like 'The Wooden Horse,' 'The Minotaur,' and 'The Odyssey,' tailored for younger audiences. It offers insights into Greek mythology, complete with a guide to the Greek Gods. The padded hardback format enhances its appeal, making it an engaging and informative read filled with vibrant illustrations. Additionally, a pronunciation guide for Greek names is available online, enriching the reading experience for children.
How Zebras Got Their Stripes
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
A work in the Usborne Reading Programme that is based on an old African folktale. It is suitable for children who are beginning to read. It allows children to build their burgeoning reading skills.
Trick or Treat, Parakeet?
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
It's Halloween and Parakeet is busy carving pumpkins and icing spooky treats. But when her friends come to call, they get a shock. Is that a GHOST who answers the door? A fun rhyming story, specially written to develop phonemic awareness, with lively illustrations by David Semple.
Frog on a Log
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Frog lives in a bog. One day, he finds someone lost in the fog... This entertaining story for beginner readers has simple rhyming text and colourful illustrations by Stephen Cartwright - and you can also listen to the story online, too. A delight to share with young children, with parent's notes on phonics at the back.
One Little Butterfly
- 14 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Follow the incredible journey of a butterfly as it grows from an egg to a ravenous caterpillar and finally emerges from its chrysalis, a beautiful fluttering butterfly. This interactive title, with its cleverly designed holes, will spark interest on every page. Specially written for little children, it is perfect for a first introduction to the truly spectacular wonders of nature.
This book is filled with five fun rhyming stories that make reading a pleasure. There's an owl who dreams of being a superhero, a window-cleaning adder who's scared of heights and an axolotl who meets a genie. Add a flamingo who loves bingo plus a musical pangolin and you have a collection that's sure to appeal to any young reader.
The Usborne illustrated Alice
- 176 pages
- 7 hours of reading
A story of Alice, from her "Adventures in Wonderland" and her trip "Through the Looking Glass".
Fairy Tales for Little Children
- 133 pages
- 5 hours of reading
"This is a beautiful treasury of picture books perfect for young children ... Each story is beautifully illustrated and perfect for either reading aloud or for more confident readers to tackle alone"--Publisher's description.
My Reading Library 1-50
- 51 volumes
"Goldilocks looks as good as gold. But Goldilocks isn't good. She's naughty! She likes to do something naughty every day - until she goes a step too far..."--Page 4 de la couverture
"Goldilocks looks as good as gold. But Goldilocks isn't good. She's naughty! She likes to do something naughty every day - until she goes a step too far..."--Page 4 de la couverture
Illustrated Stories from Dickens
- 352 pages
- 13 hours of reading
* A brilliantly illustrated collection of five classic Charles Dickens' stories, retold for younger readers. * Includes Oliver Twist, Bleak House, Great Expectations, A Tale of Two Cities and David Copperfield as well as a short biography of the great author himself. * With internet links to find out more about the life and times of Charles Dickens.
A Midsummer Night's Dream
- 64 pages
- 3 hours of reading
An entertaining retelling of one of Shakespeare's best-loved comedies, beautifully illustrated by Serena Riglietti. - Young readers will treasure this gift edition, which is published in hardback with a ribbon marker. Ages 9+.
10 Ten-minute bedtime stories
- 256 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Ten familiar tales, retold for young readers and gorgeously illustrated, including favourites Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and The Magic Porridge Pot, as well as classics The Wind in the Willows and Alice in Wonderland. Ideal for sharing with younger children; as children learn to read, they can tackle these simple stories on their own. Studies have shown that reading for just ten minutes a day can massively improve children’s literacy; this collection of stories will inspire children to do that and more.
Crow in the Snow
- 16 pages
- 1 hour of reading
A lively story with humorous illustrations, ideal for children who are beginning to read for themselves, or for reading aloud together. With simple rhyming text and phonic repetition, this book is specially designed to develop essential language and early reading skills. Also includes guidance notes for parents at the back of the book.
The Secret Garden
- 63 pages
- 3 hours of reading
The enchanting classic by Frances Hodgson Burnett retold for children growing in reading confidence and ability. Mary Lennox feels forlorn and lonely in her uncle's gloomy house on the moors. But behind an old ivy-covered wall is a garden, waiting to be discovered...
Traditional Stories
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
This set features five story books in a gift box, specially produced to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Usborne Publishing. Each hardback book is colourfully illustrated and has a ribbon page marker. All titles are taken from the Usborne Reading Programme.
Stone soup
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The Young Reading series is developed with reading expert Alison Kelly from Roehampton University to help young readers grow in confidence and ability.
Usborne Phonics Readers: Flamingo Plays Bingo
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Flamingo can't wait to join in the jungle bingo game. One, by one, she crosses off the numbers on her card - she needs just one more to win the surprise prize. But when a sneeze from Elephant sees the last ball go flying, the chase for the winning number is on...
A collection of five stories for young boys includes tales about a puppet that yearns to be a real boy, a brother and a sister who take a journey underground, and a boy who imagines he is a knight during medieval times.
Ancient Egypt
- 120 pages
- 5 hours of reading
Contains historical information from interesting tourist attractions (a cruise on the Nile) to the important festivals, fashions and customs of the age. This title includes the best villas and hotels to stay and what you can expect to find in the local market places. It is suitable for time travellers everywhere.
The story follows Alek and Ivan, who lead a humble life by the sea until Alek catches a magical fish. Driven by desire, Ivan makes increasingly extravagant wishes, ultimately leading to unforeseen consequences. This enchanting retelling of a classic Russian tale explores themes of greed and the perils of wanting too much, complemented by the availability of free online audio.
The Princess and the Pea
- 20 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Exploring the true essence of royalty, this retelling challenges the notion of what makes a real princess, emphasizing discernment over superficial appearances. It combines humor and charm, offering a fresh perspective on a classic story. With the added bonus of free online audio, readers can enjoy the enchanting narrative in multiple formats.
The narrative centers around a talking Baobab Tree, created by the gods, which expresses its dissatisfaction through constant complaints. Its grumbling prompts the gods to intervene in a unique way. This retelling of a traditional tale combines humor and whimsy, inviting readers to explore themes of contentment and the consequences of constant dissatisfaction. Additionally, it offers free online audio for an enriched storytelling experience.
Magical Stories for Little Children
- 128 pages
- 5 hours of reading
This is a fantastical treasury filled with magical tales, perfect for young children. It contains five stories adapted from the First Reading series: The Magic Pear Tree, The Golden Goose, The Magic Porridge Pot, The Wish Fish and The Three Wishes. Each tale is beautifully illustrated and perfect for storytime, either for reading aloud or for more confident readers to tackle alone.
The Magical Book
- 64 pages
- 3 hours of reading
When young King Leo disobeys all his advisors and opens a magical book, he gets a huge surprise as a greedy dragon is released. He needs to find a solution before all his kingdom is eaten - maybe the magical book can help? Each book in this series helps build confidence and ability in young readers.
The Wizard of Oz
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
A brilliant read-aloud version of the much-loved classic by L. Frank Baum, sure to capture young imaginations. When Dorothy is whisked off to Oz in a tornado, she lands in a place where nothing is quite as it seems. Can she find the Wizard, defeat the Wicked Witch of the West, and be granted her wish to return to Kansas?
The classic tale of a princess cursed at her christening and doomed to sleep for one hundred years. Will anyone fight through the forest surrounding her castle to wake her?
Shark in the Park
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Oh no, there's a shark in the park! Or is there? This entertaining story for beginner readers has simple rhyming text and colourful illustrations by Stephen Cartwright - and you can also listen to the story online. A delight to share with young children, or for beginner readers to read themselves, with parent's notes on phonics at the back.
One Little Tree
- 14 pages
- 1 hour of reading
How does a tiny little acorn become a magnificent, mighty oak tree that is home to over 2000 species? This inventive information book, specially written for little children and with intriguing holes to look through on every page, is perfect for a first introduction to the incredible world around us.
Illustrated Stories for Girls
- 352 pages
- 13 hours of reading
This collection contains 14 tales of pretty princesses, determined fairies, brave dolls and clever mermaids. Alongside classics such as 'Rapunzel', 'The Little Mermaid', and 'The Princess and the Pea', are less well-known tales by Hans Christian Andersen, plus six original stories.
Visitor's Guide to Ancient Rome
- 128 pages
- 5 hours of reading
Offers a fresh approach to the history of Ancient Rome, full of historical information about interesting tourist attractions, important festivals and the fashions and customs of the period. This title also includes a guide to the best villas, hotels and markets.
The Little Giraffe
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The Little Giraffe and his best friend Rhino are very, very hungry. What happens next changes their lives forever. This charming retelling of an African folktale has easy-to-read text and fun puzzles to try after the story.
Llamas in Pyjamas and Other Tales with Audio CD
- 144 pages
- 6 hours of reading
A collection of six beautifully-illustrated phonics stories for early readers which comes with a CD reading of the stories. Lively rhyming stories with humorous and irresistible illustrations by David Semple, which use phonic repetition specially designed to help children learn to read. The simple rhyming text helps to develop essential language and early reading skills, and there are guidance notes for parents at the back of the book.
Lola Locust finds her Focus
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Lola the Locust embarks on a quest to find her ideal job, but her lack of focus leads to comedic mishaps at every turn. Set in a whimsical bug world, this story features lively rhymes and humorous illustrations that enhance the narrative. It's a delightful addition to the beloved Usborne Bug Tales series, capturing the charm and chaos of Lola's adventures.
King Donkey Ears
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Shhh ! The king has a secret. I'll whisper it to you. " He has donkey's ears." This is a funny traditionnal tale with puzzles after the story. [4e de couverture]
Little Red Riding Hood
- 12 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Little Red Riding Hood is heading to Granny's house -- but so is a greedy wolf... A repeated refrain ("What big eyes/hands/teeth you have!") encourages listeners to join in, and the enchanting illustrations by Bao Luu bring the fairytale world to life
Puzzle Journey Under the Sea
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Ally Samuels and her brothers, Jon and Dirk, accompoany their parents to a conference at Aquamaaaarina. What promised to be a dull time turned out to be an amzingly, adventurous visit!
Each of these short stories was written specifically for Christmas. They combine concern for social ills with the myths and memories of childhood and traditional Christmas spirit-lore. The stories include "A Christmas Carol", "The Chimes", "The Battle of Life" and "The Cricket on the Hearth".
The Dragon and the Phoenix
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Part of the "First Reading" series, aimed at children who are beginning to read, this title allows children to build their burgeoning reading skills and is accompanied by illustrations.
The Little Red Hen
- 22 pages
- 1 hour of reading
The Little Red Hen has found some grains of wheat, but who will help her plant them? The cat, the rat and the duck are all sitting in the farmyard, enjoying the sun. Surely one of them will join the Little Red Hen as she grows the wheat and mills it. And what happens when she bakes a crusty golden loaf with the flour she has made? A charming retelling of this much-loved tale, incidentally showing the stages from wheat to freshly-baked bread, with delightful illustrations throughout by Raffaella Ligi.
Alpaca's maracas
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Alpaca makes and sells maracas, and, with the Carnival coming, business should be booming - but no one is buying. Then she discovers Baby Rattlesnake has a problem too - his tail just won't rattle. Can they help each other? A fun rhyming story, specially written to develop phonemic awareness, with delightful illustrations by David Semple.
Owl in a Towel
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Who's that flying in the sky? It's SuperOwl! She comes to the rescue, time and again, but is everything quite as it seems? A funny rhyming story, specially written to develop phonemic awareness, starring quirky characters and stunning illustrations. With free online audio to listen to the story.
The Lion and the Mouse
- 22 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Lion thinks Little Mouse is too small to do anything... but will Little Mouse surprise him? A wonderful retelling of a much-loved fable by Aesop, with charming illustrations by John Joven.
One Little Bee
- 14 pages
- 1 hour of reading
An interactive nature book for little children, showing the journey from minute egg to busy, buzzing bee. Follow the astonishing journey of a worker bee as she grows from an egg to a hungry larva and then, hidden from view, transforms into a hard working bee. From the moment she chews her way out of her cell she doesn't stop - first as a cleaner, builder, nanny and guard bee, then as a honey producer and pollen collector. This inventive title, with its cleverly designed holes, will spark interest on every page. Specially written for little children, it is perfect for a first introduction to the truly spectacular wonders of nature.
10 ten-minute fairy tales
- 256 pages
- 9 hours of reading
ANTHOLOGIES (CHILDREN'S / TEENAGE). Ten magical fairy stories retold for young readers and gorgeously illustrated, including favourites The Elves and the Shoemaker, The Princess and the Pea and Snow White. Ideal for sharing with younger children; as children learn to read, they can tackle these simple stories on their own. Age 6+
Noah's Ark
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Part of a collectable series of picture books which includes traditional and classic stories, and non-fiction. Ages 5+
Usborne Stories for Little Children. Alice in Wonderland and Other Stories
- 136 pages
- 5 hours of reading
A collection of classic stories adapted for young children. Each story is fully illustrated and perfect for either reading aloud or for more confident readers to tackle alone.
Weasels with Measles
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
The little weasels have woken up covered in spots! Have they really caught the measles? Find out in this entertaining story for beginner readers, with simple rhyming text, stylish illustrations and parents' notes on phonics at the back of the book.
Three Wishes
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
A tale of three wishes that bring a poor farmer and his wife nothing but trouble. If you were given three wishes, what would you wish for? It's best to think twice, as Ned and Nat find out in this story. This charming retelling of a traditional European folktale has easy-to-read text and fun puzzles to try.
In this engaging story, Tiger and her dive team embark on an adventurous quest to find a sea dragon. The narrative features playful rhymes and charming illustrations that not only entertain but also enhance phonics learning for beginner readers.
The story features Splendid Squid, the king's magician, who faces a crisis after Sneaky Sid the shark sabotages her latest performance, resulting in the loss of the royal crown. As she embarks on a quest to find it, readers are treated to engaging rhymes and whimsical illustrations that enhance the phonics learning experience. The playful narrative combines adventure with humor, making it an enjoyable read for young audiences.
How Elephants Lost Their Wings
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Believe it or not, elephants used to be able to fly. But flying elephants were big trouble... This lively reteling of an Indian Folktale has easy-to-read text and fun puzzles to try after the story.
Stories For Little Children
- 136 pages
- 5 hours of reading
A wonderful collection of well-loved stories, beautifully illustrated and specially retold for younger readers, including the classic tales The Gingerbread Man, The Nutcracker, Pinocchio, The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse, Alice in Wonderland, The Emperors New Clothes and The Snow Queen. Perfect for reading aloud or for children to read for themselves.
The Usborne Official Roman Soldier's Handbook
- 80 pages
- 3 hours of reading
Written as a guide for a novice Roman soldier, this handbook gives an insiders's guide of what it was like to fight in the Roman army. The text depicts in grim and grimy detail the harsh truths of life as a Roman soldier and includes a beginner's guide to how to hold a sword and shield and clean armour.
The Burglar's Breakfast
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Alfie Briggs is a burglar. After a hard night's thieving, he likes to go home to a tasty meal. One day Alfie returns to find his cupboards bare. Someone has burgled his breakfast!
Little Red Riding Hood BB
- 20 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Little Red Riding Hood is heading to Granny's house - but so is a greedy wolf... A repeated refrain ("What big eyes/hands/teeth you have!") encourages listeners to join in, and the enchanting illustrations by Bao Luu bring the fairytale world to life. Illustrations: Full colour throughout
The Wish Fish
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Bob and Bet catch a magical fish who grants wishes in this amusing story based on a folktale. Part of the Usborne First Reading series, aimed at children just beginning to read. This key series was developed in conjunction with reading expert Allison Kelly from the University of Surrey, a reading specialist.
'I had sent my heroine straight down a rabbit-hole without the least idea what was to happen afterwards,' wrote Dodgson, describing how Alice was conjured up one 'golden afternoon' in 1862 to entertain his child-friend Alice Liddell. In the nonsensical Wonderland and the back-to-front Looking-Glass kingdom, order is turned upside-down: a baby turns into a pig; time is abandoned at a tea-party; and a chaotic game of chess makes a 7-year-old a Queen.
Usborne: Stories for Little Girls
- 135 pages
- 5 hours of reading
Collects five stories about a brave nutcracker, life on a farm, a bizarre world discovered by Alice, an evil queen, and an adventurous country mouse.
Moon Zoom
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The eighth title in the new Usborne Very First Reading series, designed for younger children to introduce them to reading together with their parents. Parents and children take turns to read from the page (the text clearly marked for who should be reading) and as the books progress in the series the adults read less and the child more.
Old Mother Hubbard
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
'The Young Reading series' is developed with reading expert Alison Kelly from Roehampton University to help young readers grow in confidence and ability.
Seal at the Wheel
- 24 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Seal loves her new speed boat, but she keeps going too fast! Can she learn to be more careful? This entertaining story for beginner readers has simple rhyming text and stylish illustrations throughout. A delight to share with very young children, and with parents notes on phonics at the back of the book.
The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse
- 22 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Tom Town Mouse is off to visit his cousin, Cora, in the country. It will be great! says his friend, but Tom is not so sure. A charming retelling of the classic Aesop's Fable, with endearing illustrations by John Joven. With free online audio to listen to the story.
The Dragon Painter
- 22 pages
- 1 hour of reading
Chang is the best painter in China. But why does he paint his dragons without any eyes? Find out in this enchanting re-telling of a traditional Chinese tale. -- Back cover
Baby Jesus
- 20 pages
- 1 hour of reading
The story of the Nativity retold for young readers. Follow Mary and Joseph as they travel to Bethlehem in this retelling of the Christmas story, fully illustrated and in a picture book format that is perfect for sharing. A softly illustrated, charming storybook for little hands to hold.
A Midsummer-Night's Dream
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
A young woman flees Athens with her lover, only to be pursued by her would-be husband and by her best friend. Unwittingly, all four find themselves in an enchanted forest where fairies and sprites soon take an interest in human affairs, dispensing magical love potions and casting mischievous spells. In this dazzling comedy, confusion ends in harmony, as love is transformed, misplaced, and - ultimately - restored.
The Dinosaurs Next Door
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
When Stan and his neighbor, Mr. Puff, accidentally shrink themselves while trying to reduce the size of the dinosaurs that hatched from eggs Mr. Puff found, it is up to Amy the cat to save the day.






















































