Into the Sideways World

The moving, funny, thrilling and adventured-filled new novel for readers of 10 and up from bestselling author Ross Welford. When twelve-year-olds Willa and Manny hear of a mysterious animal prowling their town, they are determined to prove it is real. Following the creature into a cave one full moon, they are swept into an alternate, ideal, world - one where pollution and conflict have been conquered decades ago and even their own families seem happier. But when they return, no one believes them. So, with a global war looming in their own world, their quest for proof of the Sideways World becomes ever-more urgent, in a nail-biting race against time. And Willa and Manny will have to make an impossible decision: because once you find a perfect world, can you ever leave it behind ...?

'After discovering an ideal alternate world without pollution and wars, two friends have the difficult task of proving to others that such a place can exist in this gripping middle-grade adventure from the author of The 1,000-year-old Boy' Waterstones, Books of the Year 2022 Praise for TIME TRAVELLING WITH A HAMSTER: 'The gripping suspense truly makes time fly... the book's heart and humour are hard to resist.' Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild "Extremely clever and totally engaging." The Irish Times "Intelligent, well crafted and impressive." Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times 'Touching, silly and exciting by turns, this thrilling little book is an inventive take on time travel for children. Sure to be a hit with fans of R.J. Palacio's Wonder... an unforgettable, madcap story from a bright new talent in Children's fiction.' Waterstones "A touching tale of family, grief and love." Daily Express 'With intriguing twists from start to finish, this story is a real roller coaster of emotions. It warmed my heart and filled my head with wonder! A fast, funny and really satisfying read that sparks your imagination.' Joseph, 10.

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Ross Welford was a journalist and television producer before becoming a full-time writer. He lives in London with his wife, children, a border collie and several tropical fish.