Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Alice Nuttall is a British author known for her middle-grade novel The Zombie Project, published by Chicken House Books in January 2025. The story explores a future where zombies function as pollinators in the ecosystem, combining elements of environmental science and speculative fiction.
Nuttall co-created the webcomic series Footloose with illustrator Emily Brady. Her other works include Spider Circus, Free Gifts, and Sigyn, spanning fantasy and science fiction genres aimed at young readers.
She is involved with the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), coordinating the Oxford critique group to support writers. Nuttall also volunteers with the campaign Our Streets Now, which addresses public sexual harassment through writing and editing initiatives.
Her contributions to children’s literature include engaging narratives that combine imaginative storytelling with contemporary themes. The Zombie Project marks her first full-length novel publication.
January 2025’s set of book club recommendations features titles by Eric Huang, Charlie P. Brooks, Philip Kavvadias, David Owen, Patrice Lawrence, Niyla Farook, Alice Nuttall, Gayle Forman, Sujin Witherspoon, and Madeline Claire Franklin.
The Zombie Project has a serious message contained in this story, centred around the long-term problems caused by the use of pesticides and the corruption of big business when it is allowed to operate in secrecy.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Spring 2025. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
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