Book excerpt: Book Band: Brown - Ideal for ages 8+ A funny retelling of an Indian folk tale from best-selling author Narinder Dhami. Bulbul would much rather sit at home under the mango tree than go to work. And anyway everyone in the village agrees that he is the worst barber in the whole world. Luckily his wife Ruby has a cunning plan to earn money – but first they must outwit a notorious band of thieves! This comical version of a traditional Indian story from best-selling author Narinder Dhami has entertaining black-and-white illustrations by Amberin Huq and is perfect for children who are developing as readers. The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), this series is ideal for home and school. For more information visit www.bloomsburyreaders.com. 'Any list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed ... Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding.' Books for Keeps