It is the unlikely heroes in stories that are sometimes the most inspiring of all. Stories about someone small, and seemingly unimportant or overlooked, who ends up being the one to stand tall. This collection of seven fairy tales, once much loved, now forgotten, breathes new life into old tales: a farm girl outwits an ogre, an old man wins fame for his kindness, while a girl discovers that what makes her different is also what makes her so special. This magical collection will bring inspiration to a new generation of readers and act as a reminder that anyone, no matter how small, can make a difference.

Who wouldn't want to spend their days simply messing about on the river? Follow Mole on his adventures with his new friends, dreamy Ratty, wise Badger and the infamous Mr. Toad, as they venture into the Wild Wood and battle stoats and weasels to recapture Toad Hall.

Forgotten Fairy Tales of Kindness and Courage breathes new life into a collection of once much-loved, now forgotten tales, beautifully retold by Mary Sebag-Montefiore. A disabled prince fights for his kingdom, and learns the importance of understanding others. A princess finds the courage to rescue her friend from goblins. A girl steps into the world of a book, only to find what it means to be herself. Full of magic and enchantment, these stories celebrate kindness, courage and the importance of being true to yourself. With a foreword by Dr Zoe Williams, NHS GP, TV presenter and health educator.

Oliver is growing up in an orphanage... until the day he dares to ask for more. Suddenly, he is cast out into a world of colourful characters, in which he will have to keep his wits about him and even pick pockets to survive. A retelling of the classic story by Charles Dickens, for children growing in their reading confidence and ability. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme, developed with reading experts from Roehampton University.

This is a beautifully illustrated collection of five best-loved classics from one of Britain's most famous writers, Charles Dickens, retold for younger readers. It includes "Oliver Twist", "Bleak House", "Great Expectations", "A Tale of Two Cities" and "David Copperfield" as well as a short biography of the great author himself. It is presented with internet links to find out more about the life and times of Charles Dickens.

Follow Alice and the White Rabbit down the rabbit hole and join in with their madcap adventures. Part of the Usborne Young Reading series, this retelling of Lewis Carroll's enduring and popular nonsensical tale is ideal for newly independent readers.

Frank L. Baum's classic has been specially adapted for this wonderful, fully illustrated edition at the highest level of the Reading Programme. Enjoy Dorothy's journey in Oz, as she travels along the yellow brick road with the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Lion, before coming safely home again.

A captivating retelling of Anna Sewell's classic novel beautifully illustrated by Alan Marks, perfect for encouraging independent reading. This title is part of Series Two of the Usborne Young Reading Programme, specially written for readers growing in confidence. The audio CD includes a dramatic listen-along recording with music and sound effects, followed by a read-along version with prompts for page turns.

Aimed at children whose reading ability is beginning to grow, building confidence and ability. "The Railway Children" is a re-telling of the beloved E. Nesbitt story following the story of three children growing up after their father is wrongly accused of spying. It is evocatively illustrated by Alan Marks. It is developed in consultation with Alison Kelly, who is a senior lecturer in education and an early reading specialist from Roehampton University.

The enchanting classic by Frances Hodgson Burnett retold for children growing in reading confidence and ability. Mary Lennox feels forlorn and lonely in her uncle's gloomy house on the moors. But behind an old ivy-covered wall is a garden, waiting to be discovered. Beautifully illustrated by Alan Marks, winner of the Carnegie Medal. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme developed with reading experts at the University of Roehampton.

The much-loved classic story by L.M. Montgomery, specially retold for children ready to tackle longer and more complex stories. From the day red-headed 'Anne-with-an-e' unexpectedly arrives at Green Gables, life is never the same again... Includes a short biography of the author and beautiful watercolour illustrations throughout. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme developed with reading experts.

The dramatic story of a young boy's escape from an unhappy childhood into the adventures of an adult life, full of unforgettable characters from the cruel Mr Mudstone, the formidable Aunt Betsey and worm-like Uriah Heap. The classic Charles Dickens novel retold for children ready to tackle longer and more complex stories. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme developed with reading experts at the University of Roehampton.

Johanna Spyri's Heidi is beautifully retold, following the exploits of the orphaned girl sent to live in the Alps with her grumpy grandfather. Part of Young Reading Series 2 for readers growing in confidence, with clear, engaging text and stunning original illustrations. Developed in conjunction with reading experts from Roehampton University. Also available with an audio CD with a dramatic listen-along recording with music and sound effects, followed by a read-along version with prompts for page turns.

A captivating retelling of Anna Sewell's classic novel beautifully illustrated by Alan Marks. Perfect for encouraging independent reading. Part of Young Reading Series 2 for readers growing in confidence. Also available with an audio CD with a dramatic listen-along recording with music and sound effects, followed by a read-along version with prompts for page turns.