September 2026 book club picks
September 2026’s book club includes titles by Sam Usher, Kes Gray, Joseph Coelho, Nadia Shireen, David Olusoga, Emma Carroll, Elizabeth Acevedo, Ava Reid, Katie Tsang, Steve Cole and Tom Palmer.
Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Elaine Connolly is a writer and editor who has worked on children’s books for a range of readers. She is the author of the Mouse and Bear graphic novel series, published by Wren & Rook, an imprint of Hachette Children’s Group, and illustrated by John Cei Douglas.
The first book, Mouse and Bear: Stay Safe Online, was published on 27 August 2026. Told through ten short stories, it follows Mouse and his friend Bear as they encounter situations involving online gaming, social media, cyberbullying, screen time, looking after devices and recognising online risks. The stories and practical guidance were informed by advice from mental health specialist and qualified therapist Raoul Lindsay.
Connolly and Douglas are also the author and illustrator of Mouse and Bear: Banish the Bullies, which follows Mouse and his friends as they deal with bullying both online and offline. The second Mouse and Bear book is scheduled for publication by Wren & Rook on 18 February 2027.

September 2026’s book club includes titles by Sam Usher, Kes Gray, Joseph Coelho, Nadia Shireen, David Olusoga, Emma Carroll, Elizabeth Acevedo, Ava Reid, Katie Tsang, Steve Cole and Tom Palmer.
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