Collects three tales about mermaids–one who is poor and must steal to save her mother, one who solves a crime, and one who is willing to give up her tail for love.

Three original stories with easy-reading text for children who have just started reading on their own. Includes stories about scary monsters living under the bed, close encounters with rampaging ice beasts and escaping slimy swamp creatures. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme developed with reading experts at the University of Roehampton. Also available with an audio CD with a dramatic listen-along recording with music and sound effects, followed by a read-along version with prompts for page turns.

In three tales, Pirate School graduate Charlie Crossbones buys a used parrot with a most upsetting habit, Molly Mullet uses her piloting skills to trick Captain Spike, and cabin boy Sam Sardine searches for the mysterious Masked Pirate.

The eccentric Mr. Puff lives next door to Sam in a house full of interesting things – including a basket of dinosaur eggs! When the dinosaurs begin to grow, something needs to be done – fast! An amusing, original story with easy reading text, speech bubbles and delightful illustrations on every page. Specially written as part of the Usborne Young Reading Programme for children who have just started reading alone.

The Russian folktale retold for children growing in reading confidence and ability. Prince Ivan sets off in search of the Firebird, which has been stealing his father’s golden apples. A story of bravery, determination and magic that has captivated generations, and inspired iconic paintings, music and ballet. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme developed with reading experts at the University of Roehampton.

This title is a new addition to “Young Reading Series One”, part of the Usborne Young Reading Programme, based on the Chinese myth. It is aimed at children just beginning to read to help build confidence and ability. When three brothers inherit their father’s fortune, greedy Ying and Yong keep it all for themselves, leaving poor Chin to live a simple life. But Chin’s act of kindness to a mysterious monk leads to a magical reward. This title is developed in consultation with Alison Kelly, who is a senior lecturer in education and an early reading specialist from Roehampton University. It features beautifully produced hardback with ribbon marker to encourage pride in book ownership.

The Phantom of the Opera lurks beneath the Paris opera house, a mysterious shadow who takes young opera singer Christine under his tutelage and transforms her into a star. But will his growing obsession with Christine, and her blossoming romance with Count Raoul, be the end of them all? Specially rewritten as part of the Usborne Young Reading Programme, aimed at children growing in reading confidence and ability.

A classic story re-told for children just beginning to read. When Max the lazy sorcerer’s apprentice dabbles in magic beyond his abilities, he finds himself in a world of trouble. Can he fix everything before the old sorcerer returns, or will he find himself suddenly out of a job?! Usborne Young Reading has been developed in conjunction with reading experts from Roehampton University

Shakespeare’s classic comedy specially retold for children growing in reading confidence and ability. When Viola is left shipwrecked on the coast of Illyria, she must disguise herself as a boy for protection. But when she becomes a page for Duke Orsino, things start to get a little complicated.

“Crack reading and make confident and enthusiastic readers with this fantastic reading programme.” – Julia Eccleshare

When Jane Eyre becomes a governess at the rambling mansion of Thornfield Hall, she falls in love with her mysterious employer, Mr. Rochester. But he hides a terrible secret that threatens to drive them apart… Part of the Usborne Young Reading series, this retelling of Charlotte Bronte’s timeless love story is ideal for newly independent readers.

Jason and the Golden Fleece

An amusing and original story for children growing in reading confidence. When the littlest ghost is deemed not scary enough by the Ghost Inspectors, he loses his job at the fairground. Can Jake help him be more scary and win his job back? Part of the Usborne Reading Programme developed with reading experts at the University of Roehampton.