It's the first day of the holidays and Sam is roaming the island of Texel, imagining what it'd feel like to be the last person on earth. Then, like a whirlwind, 12-year-old islander Tess swoops into his life. Sam's only option is to go along for the ride. Soon he's dancing the waltz, burying a pet canary and coming up with an especially weird plan to help Tess find her father, who doesn't even know she exists. Along the way, Sam discovers the true meaning of family and what it is to be alive. One thing's for sure - this is a holiday he'll never forget.

A powerful story of two unlikely friends brought together by the love of a dog 'Timeless and clever.' Sophie Dahl Sometimes rivals just need a helping paw... It only takes one day at their new school for Parker and Sven to become mortal enemies. Parker's had a terrible summer and just wants to be invisible, while Sven is desperate to make an impression and be known as anything other than "that boy with epilepsy." When Parker discovers her beloved dog Alaska - who she had to give away last year - now belongs to Sven, she's determined to steal Alaska back. Of course, that's easier said than done...

THE TIMES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK 'This funny, award-winning novel by Dutch writer Woltz is original and touching — and has two wonderfully memorable characters…’ Sally Morris, Daily Mail It’s the first day of the holidays and Sam is roaming the island of Texel, imagining what it’d feel like to be the last person on earth. Then, like a whirlwind, 12-year-old islander Tess swoops into his life. Sam’s only option is to go along for the ride. Soon he’s dancing the waltz, burying a pet canary and coming up with an especially weird plan to help Tess find her father, who doesn’t even know she exists. Along the way, Sam discovers the true meaning of family and what it is to be alive. One thing’s for sure – this is a holiday he’ll never forget.

A powerful story of two unlikely friends brought together by the love of a dog 'Timeless and clever.' Sophie Dahl Sometimes rivals just need a helping paw... It only takes one day at their new school for Parker and Sven to become mortal enemies. Parker's had a terrible summer and just wants to be invisible, while Sven is desperate to make an impression and be known as anything other than that boy with epilepsy. When Parker discovers her beloved dog Alaska - who she had to give away last year - now belongs to Sven, she's determined to steal Alaska back. Of course, that's easier said than done...