Books for children...

The Star Tree by Catherine Hyde (Frances Lincoln, €14.90 HB) Waking at midnight at Midsummer, young Mia sets out on a fabulous journey, first on her horse, then on owl-back, followed by a sea voyage in Little Red Hare’s boat.

After many adventures she reaches The Star Tree and having collected what she came for — a star — she returns home on a goose’s back. The star now takes the place of her nightlight as she drifts happily back to sleep.The story is just so beautiful and peaceful, and is really a fitting vehicle for Catherine Hyde’s magical illustrations. Suitable for age five and upwards.

Pet Dragon by MP Robertson (Frances Lincoln, €8.10) This is a really funny tongue-in-cheek manual for looking after a pet dragon. They are a strange lot, some green and slithery with ugly warts and huge toes. Their scaly teeth and necks are scary and horridly creepy to touch, so be aware. Worse still, watch out for vomiting dragons who may spit in your face.