The shelf
Books
Stories for struggling and reluctant readers, teenagers, and adults — chosen and shaped by two decades in SEN classrooms.
The Seagulls Have Landed
Clare Cheetham's debut novel, available now in paperback and ebook. A story that stayed close to Clare's own experience of the world she knows best — written the way she'd want a reluctant reader to find it: honest, warm, and never dumbed down.
Taste Buddies
Book one of a planned four-part series. Teacher Annie Mews leads a group of teenagers on a school exchange across Europe — a coming-of-age story adapted from Clare's screenplay Good Cooks, Bad Cooks, and inspired by a real exchange trip.
Sign up to the newsletter for the release date and an early look at chapter one.
A note on reading levels
Not sure which book fits your reader?
Every Light and Shade title is written to be genuinely enjoyed, not simplified down to a level. If you'd like guidance for a specific child or classroom, get in touch — Clare's happy to help you find the right fit.