Earlier this month, we held our online Publisher Roadshow events, showcasing loads of brilliant upcoming titles. We've picked out a handful of books that caught our eye and look particularly well-suited for the school library, as well as some perfect reads for enjoying Halloween this half-term.
This Way Up by Tom Percival
Tom's books are often a go-to for schools when teaching children about their feelings, and This Way Up looks like it will be a vital addition to any collection. This book explains how two people can view the world differently, and both be right. In fact, by listening to someone else's point of view, you might change the way you see the world yourself.
Willa's Monster Muddle by Fabi Santiago
This looks perfect for October half-term and beyond! A little girl goes to a fancy dress party dressed as a witch, gets mixed up with a real witch, and ends up going to a spooky haunted house instead. The illustrations are really engaging for younger readers, set out like comic strips with so much to look at, and some excellent activities to use in tandem with the story.
Good Bits by Kes Gray and Ruby Wright
This is a great book to dip in and out of, providing something engaging for children with shorter attention spans, and enough interest to draw in more reluctant readers – especially with the lovely illustrations alongside. It might help inspire some creative writing activities as well, encouraging children to continue the stories themselves.
The Notted Island by Katherine Child
The premise of The Notted Island – that the world was black and white before 1861 – creates an opportunity for broad and deep discussions about what colour means to us all. Varied text formats such as newspaper reports and letters bring different opportunities for learning and creative activities in school, as well as adding even more interest to the story, which is beautifully illustrated too.
The Not-So-Great Escape by Emma Green
Coming in January 2026, The Not-So-Great Escape looks like a must-have addition to any school library, blending humour with emotional depth as it explores friendship, grief and finding courage. The chaotic adventure has plenty to hook reluctant readers – who can resist a stolen alpaca?! – while the exploration of loss and emotional honesty offers opportunities for wider discussions.
Skating Wilder by Brandon Dumais and AJ Dungo
A graphic novel that combines the history of skateboarding with autobiography: what a brilliant concept. The art is clear and engaging, and it will appeal to reluctant readers as well as anyone with an interest in skating, either current or historic!
Make Me a Monster by Kalynn Bayron
Kalynn is excellent at creating suspense for teen readers. The idea of a mortician's assistant uncovering a family secret in the business sounds delightfully horrific! When you're used to being surrounded by death, what could you discover that would shock you..?
Find out more about all these titles and lots more by watching the recordings of our Autumn term Roadshows.
SLA members can visit the Publisher Roadshow page on our website, where you will also find links to classroom resources and activity sheets. Not a member? Watch the Picture Book, Middle Grade and Young Adult Publisher Roadshows on Youtube.