Since advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been widely observed and studied. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory, unusually high rates of absolute or "perfect" pitch, and the effectiveness of music-based therapies abound in the autism literature. Meanwhile, music scholars and historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Bela Bartok and Glenn Gould to "Blind Tom" Wiggins. Given the great deal of attention paid to music and autism, it is surprising to discover that autistic people have rarely been asked to account for how they themselves make and experience music or why it matters to them that they do. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations - some spanning the course of years - with ten fascinating and very different individuals who share two basic things in common: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central part. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view, but rather from many different autistic points of view. They invite readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds (on the companion website) that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity we all share.

This gorgeously designed retelling of The Nutcracker will make the perfect Christmas present for ballet fans everywhere! In snow white covered St. Petersburg, young dancer Stana's dreams have finally come true - she has been chosen to play the lead role in Tchaikovsky's new ballet, The Nutcracker. But with all eyes looking at her, can Stana overcome her nerves and dance like she's never danced before? From the author of the bestselling The Sinclair Mysteries, Katherine Woodfine, and Waterstone's Book Prize winner, Lizzy Stewart, this sumptuous and magical retelling of The Nutcracker will transport you on a journey fay beyond the page. Praise for Katherine Woodfine's The Sinclair's Mysteries series: 'A wonderful book, with a glorious heroine and a true spirit of adventure' Katherine Rundell, award-winning author of Rooftoppers 'Dastardliness on a big scale is uncovered in this well-plotted, evocative novel' The Sunday Times 'It's a dashing plot, an atmospheric setting and an extensive and imaginative cast. Katherine Woodfine handles it all with aplomb' The Guardian Praise for Lizzy Stewart's There's a Tiger in the Garden (Winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2017, Illustrated Books Category): 'A journey of discovery' The Guardian 'A stunning testament to the power of imagination' Metro

Will Trey and Ariel find their happily ever after? Last Christmas meets The Sun is Also a Star in this hopelessly romantic Christmas love story. 'A screen-worthy holiday romance.' Joya Goffney, author of Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry Trey Anderson is popular and handsome, and he works at his family's beloved Black-owned bookshop, Wonderland. Ariel Spencer is quirky, creative, and in need of a holiday temp job to cover her tuition for The Artists' Studio. An opening at Wonderland is the answer . . . and the start of a hate-to-love journey for Trey and Ariel. When Trey and Ariel learn that Wonderland is on the brink of shutting down, can they get over their differences and team up to stop the doors from closing before the Christmas Eve deadline? PRAISE FOR LOVE IN WINTER WONDERLAND 'A sweetly seasonal YA romance.' Guardian 'Gorgeous writing, witty dialogue, a magical setting and two characters you'll fall head over heels for.' Jennifer Niven, author of All the Bright Places 'A story so charming and fun it will whisk you away. It has TikTok sensation written all over it!' Laura Jane Williams, author of Our Stop 'I devoured this delicious YA rom-com. A treat to read any time of year.' Katherine Webber, author of Twin Crowns 'Charming, heartwarming and perfect cosy reading, complete with the perfect holiday soundtrack!' Ciara Smyth, author of Not My Problem 'Full of warmth, humour and joy. A delightful read!' Michelle Quach, author of Not Here to be Liked 'A dazzling love letter to bookshops, and the power of community.' Adiba Jaigirdar, author of Hani and Ishu's Guide to Fake Dating 'A wonderfully warm love story.' Candice Brathwaite, author of Cuts Both Ways 'A warm and cosy read that pulls you into the perfect winter romance. Abiola has given us all a gift to swoon over.' Benjamin Dean, author of The King is Dead 'A gorgeous love story, full of joy, humour and heart. Abiola Bello has given us something truly special!' Danielle Jawando, author of And the Stars Were Burning Brightly 'The most joyful, cosy and swoon-worthy love story.' Kate Weston, author of Diary of a Confused Feminist 'Fans of Mean Girls will love this delightful and riveting read.' Clara Loveman, author of Crown of Crowns

The fourth title in the bestselling series from the brilliantly talented Liz Pichon. Seeing Delia without her sunglasses on is a BIG shock, but that's nothing compared with the surprise Dad has in store for me with his new found fitness regime. He says he's going to compete at my Sport's Day. Shame! Meanwhile Derek, Norman and I keep practicing in DOGZOMBIES so we're really ready for the school Talent Show. ABOUT THE SERIES: Written in diary form Full of Tom's doodles and pictures & his amazing sense of humour The Brilliant World of Tom Gates, was the winner of the Roald Dahl Funny Prize! Perfect gifts for boys & girls who love to laugh themselves silly The first series of The Brilliant World of Tom Gates won the Scottish BAFTA for Entertainment! Love Tom Gates? Don't miss Liz Pichon's spectacular Shoe Wars, a laugh-out-loud, gadget-packed adventure!

A profound story about inner strength and perseverance in the face of a life-changing event, from the award-winning author of The Bubble Boy. Perfect for fans of R. J. Palacio's Wonder and Lisa Thompson's The Goldfish Boy. 'A wonderful book about overcoming a life-changing event and the remarkable power of music.' - Lisa Thompson, author of The Goldfish Boy Life is going well for Sophie. She's getting by at school, has some pretty awesome friends, and their band have made it through to the semifinals of the Battle of the Bands competition. But when Sophie wakes up completely deaf one morning, the life she once knew seems like a distant memory. With lessons replaced by endless hospital appointments, and conversations now an exercise in lip-reading, Sophie grows quieter and quieter. Until she discovers the vibrations of sound through an old set of drums and wonders whether life onstage is actually still within reach. Drawing on the author's own hearing impairment, Can You Feel the Noise? is a deeply personal and moving story that will stay with you long after reading. Praise for Can You Feel the Noise? 'Powerful, moving and uplifting. This beautifully-told story highlights the gift of perseverance.' - Polly Ho-Yen, author of Boy in the Tower 'A moving, empathy-boosting, and hopeful story about a young musician navigating hearing loss.' - Rashmi Sirdeshpande, author of Think Like a Boss 'A sensitive and brilliant story of hearing loss, full of humour and hope.' - A. M. Howell, author of The Garden of Lost Secrets

This first introduction to music theory is perfect for children ages 4-7. Music Theory Made Easy for Kids is filled with colorful illustrations and fun musical sticker sheets in each book.

A BIG ISSUE BOOK OF THE YEAR This illuminating and defining biography from bestselling author Traci N. Todd, with illustrations from award-winner Christian Robinson, tells the story of Eunice Waymon, who grew up to become Nina Simone - and shares her bold, defiant, and exultant legacy with a new generation. With passion and unparalleled skill, Traci N. Todd and Christian Robinson bring this iconic singer's story to young readers and their families. Meet young Eunice, who sang before she could talk, and journey with her from the piano stool she shared with her father in her childhood home, to the bars and concert halls where she became the one and only Nina Simone. Learn about how Nina's voice started out rich and sweet but grew to a thunderous roar as the Civil Rights Movement gained steam. Witness this artist in all her brilliance, singing in protest against racial inequality and discrimination. With rhythmic prose and masterful images, Nina perfectly demonstrates the relationship between art and activism. An essential addition to every young reader's library.

In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Aretha Franklin, 'The Queen of Soul'. The fourth of five children, Aretha was born in Tennessee and took the stage at an early age in her father's church choir. She went on to become the bestselling rhythm and blues singer of all time, and the first woman to be installed in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the broadcaster's life. Little People, BIG DREAMS is a bestselling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream. This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardback versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children. Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!