The Baddies Julia Donaldson

A troll, a witch and a ghost compete to prove who can be the most frightening, unpleasant and badly behaved. But the little girl they hope to scare is not willing to play the role they expect. Julia Donaldson's lively rhyming adventure gives comic villains an unexpectedly capable opponent, celebrating quick thinking and confidence while letting children enjoy the outrageous silliness of a spectacularly unsuccessful plan.

Age suitability and learning: Preschool (3-5), Primary (6-8). Rhythm and repeated language help younger listeners join in, while primary readers can explore the words and pictures more closely. Reading aloud supports listening, sound awareness and expressive speech; following the story encourages recall and talking about what happens next.

Available at QT Toys in Battersea.