#ReadforEmpathy Collection 2025

We are delighted that two Old Barn Books titles have been chosen for the Read for Empathy Collection 2025

EmpathyLab’s work is based on scientific research showing that empathy is learnable, and that books help to build it: identifying with fictional characters helps build real-life empathy. Teachers report that using empathy-rich texts builds mutual understanding. Impacts include improved behaviour and a culture with less racism and in which children themselves help resolve disputes.

Empathy Day will be celebrated on 12th June 2025. Find out more here.

Kate De Goldi

Kate De Goldi grew up in Christchurch, New Zealand, and has published short stories and novels for both adults and children. The 10pm Question won the New Zealand Post Book of the Year in 2009 in both YA and General Fiction categories, was selected as a White Ravens Outstanding New International Book for Children and Young Adults nd was longlisted for the Dublin Literary Award. Rave reviews highlighted its wit and empathy for Frankie, its tortured teen protagonist, when it was first published in the UK, in 2010.

Eddy, Eddy was shortlisted for the YA Book of the Year and has been a #1 Bestseller in the Fiction charts in her homeland. It was chosen as a Book of the Year 2024 by LoveReading in the UK.

De Goldi is something of a literary legend in New Zealand and works extensively teaching creative writing and reviewing and lecturing on all things bookish.

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On The Wall

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A witty and reassuring 'transition read' for all those embarking on their first year at secondary school, from master storyteller Anne Fine.

WATCH Anne Fine introduce On The Wall here

READ an extract here

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Old Barn Books

The Bear who went to War

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The story of Woytek, the bear cub adopted by Polish soldiers in World War 2, who grew up with them under fire, was made an officer and carried munitions at the terrible and decisive battle of Monte Cassino, is well-known amongst those of Polish heritage. The playwright Alan Pollock has uncovered a story of loyalty, friendship and family among the horrors of war and written this picture book to honour the bravery of the Polish soldiers and their faithful friend, left stateless at the end of the war. A play with puppetry debuted in the English Midlands in 2024 and we look forward to a wider tour in the future.

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The Lorikeet Tree

This coming-of-age novel from Australian superstar Paul Jennings is both moving and inspirational, embracing big themes including the loss of a parent and environmental concern. KidsBookReview said: "Big stuff, and yet the way Jennings delivers this book… it’s like he’s holding your hand through it all". Expect a departure from his funny 'stories with a twist' but know that you are in the care of a master storyteller. Suggested age range 11 - 14 years; Longlisted for the UKLA Awards and Nominated for the Yoto Carnegie Medal for Writing 2024

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Eco-fiction for 9 - 13 yrs

The Raven's Song

The Raven's Song

The Raven's Song

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9 - 13: eco-fiction

9 - 13: eco-fiction

9 - 13: eco-fiction

Learning about pollinators

Check out the latest bee-themed events and advice from the British Beekeepers Association or click through below for Old Barn Books pollinator-themed titles.

Bees and ecology
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Madeline Finn and the Rescue Dog

A picture book about caring and sharing, from the author of Madeline Finn and the Library Dog'. Madeline worries who is caring for the dogs in the Rescue Home. Most importantly, who is reading to them? She tries to read to them all herself, but realises she needs help. Luckily, her friends at the library are ready to step in.

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  • Picture Books

    Wordless books, picture books to help you face your fears or to explore the wonders of the natural world: we strongly believe that a child's first books should be beautiful, educational and entertaining!

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  • Gift Books

    Great artwork, great paper engineering and, for the older reader, fantastic photography!

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  • Cover image for Boy, Everywhere. Boy in plane coming in to land

    Fiction

    We publish fiction from around the world (although it seems we do love Australia!) and for readers aged approximately 9+.

    7 of our 9 eligible titles have been nominated for The Carnegie Medal

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