This is a popular and funny story about one boy’s unexpected rise to power. When Joe tells a local news reporter exactly what he would do if he were in charge of the country, his video goes viral all over the world. Soon, people are calling for the current leader to resign and before long Joe ends up with the most extraordinary new job. The Accidental Prime Minister is a big hit with KS2 and a great springboard for helping pupils to reflect on the responsibility of leaders in democracies like the UK. You may also like The Accidental President by the same author.

This is a powerful story exploring the question of how children can turn into criminals. Tulip, who has experienced deep cruelty at home, makes herself unpopular by skiving school, back talking the teachers and telling awful lies. Drawn in by Tulip’s strange actions, a girl called Natalie witnesses Tulip becoming increasingly sinister and wonders exactly how far Tulip will go. This is a mesmerising book that grapples with sensitive and complex issues and is most suitable for upper KS2 classes ready to handle tough topics.

Mr Creep the Crook and his family are criminals. Even his dog Growler is bad. When he escapes from jail and heads to the seaside, Mr Creep finds out that breaking the law is not such a good idea after all. This is part of the Happy Families series, which remains very popular with KS1. We also recommend Cops and Robbers and Burglar Bill by the same author.