Need a great story for 7-9 year olds

[Hegoethdown]

Got a job interview for a primary school librarian post and one of the tasks is to read a story to a group of children aged 7-9. I've got 15 minutes to read it so I'm thinking 10 minutes or so reading with 5 minutes of discussion in amongst.
No idea of the childrens' levels so needs to be accessible to all and also one which they won't have all read before.
Currently a secondary English teacher and hoping very much that this will be my escape route so any suggestions will be really appreciated!

I would read an extract rather than a whole story - leave them wanting more and end on a real cliffhanger.
Read the whole extract don't stop for questions or explanations, wait until the end to invite discussion.

I'd ask your local librarian - they are a font of all knowledge when it comes to books.

*fount

Try a Amilia Jane story ... always gets what she deserves - lots of talk about doing the right thing -

What about Rose Blanche? Or Archie's War? I agree about reading part and then talking about it. You should be able to get them pleading for you to finish the story, which will look great at your interview!

Francis Beckett short "Seafood" would be great for that age group and timescale. Real twist and generates great discussion on "issues" explored in the text.

First chapter of " I was a Rat" Philip Pullman. Lots of discussion opportunities about characters and plot predictions.

One of the David Walliams books?

my 7 and 9 year old love MrStink

Extract from one of the David Walliams books?
Or Roald Dahl?

Silly ipad ...

Do primary schools have librarians?
Even in our secondary school, the librarian is also responsible for careers education , work experience, clubs, some general admin and probably other things.

Thanks for all your suggestions that's really helpful- I'll have a browse at local library/ Waterstones tomorrow.
leccybill- it seems this primary school does have a librarian! Would imagine they get lumbered with other stuff though, that's the way of things in most schools I think.

Extract from the Butterfly Lion or from Adolphus Tips both Michael Morpurgo

OR an extract from Michael Morpurgo's I Believe in Unicorns which is about a librarian inspiring children who are reluctant readers by reading to them...

One of Terry Jones fairy tales....the beast with a thousand teeth is my favourite...