Book Band: Dark Red (Ideal for ages 10+)

A magical adventure story about moving to a new home and finding your inner strength by Kereen Getten, author of The Lighthouse Intruder (which was selected as Waterstones Children's Book of the Month).

Ada and her parents have moved from the city to a small town for her mum's new job. But when they arrive, it's obvious to Ada that something is not quite right. On her newspaper round, she discovers the Banished, magical people who have been exiled from the town by the sinister mayor.

The Banished are trapped behind an invisible shield which means they can't enter the town or see their loved ones. But somehow, Ada can see the shield as a wall of fog and, not only that, she can enter the world of the Banished.This page-turning story is accompanied by black-and-white illustrations by Simone Douglas.

The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), this series is ideal for home and school. For more information visit www.bloomsburyreaders.com.

'Any list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed . Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding.' Books for Keeps

Kereen Getten grew up in Jamaica but now lives in Birmingham with her family. She is the author of When Life Gives You Mangoes which was shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award, the Jahlak prize, and the Waterstones Children's Book Award in 2021, as well as being nominated for the Carnegie Medal, and The Lighthouse Intruder which was Waterstones Children's Book of the Month. Kereen tweets @kereengetten.

Simone Douglas is a full-time illustrator and digital artist based in London. A BA Graphic Design graduate who sources much inspiration from a childhood rich with vibrant cartoons, video games and classic Disney; she aims to capture and deliver nostalgia through her artistic style and experimentation. She particularly loves portraiture and creating characters, but has recently found a love for environment art, where she brings life to characters within their worlds. Follow Simone on Instagram @simdougie.