A wonderful collection of creation stories from Australia, telling how the koala lost his tale, the kangaroo got her pouch, as well as how the birds got their colours.

David Attenborough has dedicated his life to nature. Through his television programmes he has brought amazing wildlife into our homes and helped us to understand more about the world. Find out all about his incredible life.

Follow the journey of a polar bear from cub to adulthood to find out how they reach the top of the Arctic food chain and survive in the frozen north.

Follow the tangled love stories of Beatrice, Benedict, Hero and Claudio in Shakespeare's classic and much-loved comedy. Diamond/Band 17 books offer more complex, underlying themes to give opportunities for children to understand causes and points of view. Text type: Fiction from our literary heritage Curriculum links: English: fiction from the literary heritage

Follow Odysseus on his remarkable journey home, and find out whether he and his crew will survive the perils of the cyclops, Poseidon's revenge, the bewitching sirens, Scylla, and the deadly whirlpool, the cruel heat and a dramatic shipwreck. Finally, will Penelope, his long-lost wife be waiting for him? Emerald/Band 15 books provide a widening range of genres including science fiction and biography, prompting more ways to respond to texts. Text type: A traditional tale from another culture Curriculum links: English: fairy stories, myths and legends

A hilarious tale about a mischievous king who is desperate to show off his clever tricks to three unsuspecting princes. Find out what he gets up to, and whether anyone can beat him at his own game.

A retelling of the traditional tale of the Pied Piper, and how he saves the village of Hamelin from the invasion of rats, only to take his cruel revenge on the people after the mayor refuses to pay him for his good deed. June Crebbin wonderfully captures the spirit of this story for older children, with a spine-tingling finale.

Three dragon tales from different cultures. Find out how brave Maren defies the terrifying beast on her wedding day, how a dragon's granny helps three boys escape his cruel claws, and how Tokoyo's quest to free her father, sees her defeat the dreadful dragon and free her whole country at the same time. Ruby/Band 14 books give increasing opportunities for children to develop their skills of inference and deduction. Text type: Traditional tales from other cultures Curriculum links: English: fairy stories, myths and legends; books from other cultures and traditions

Follow the twisted, evil plans of Richard III as he works his way to up become king of England. But, just how far will he go in order to reach the top, and once there, will he get the glory and triumph he so craves?

A beautiful retelling by former children's laureate Michael Morpurgo, of this tradition tale of kindness, friendship and a real happily ever after. Find out what lies in store for Belle when she leaves her family behind to live with the Beast in his palace. Topaz/Band 13 books offer longer and more demanding reads for children to investigate and evaluate. Text type: A traditional tale Curriculum links: English: fairy stories, myths and legends