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Bookmark’s top 10 children’s books to read in 2025

  • Published: 10/01/2025

It’s that time of year again when many are thinking about how to make 2025 their best year yet. For parents, carers and teachers, fostering a love of reading for children can be a rewarding and impactful goal. 

We’re here to help families and teachers alike reach that goal, with our top children’s books recommendations to read this year. 

We also try to keep our One-to-one Reading Programme vibrant and entertaining with these latest stories to capture their imaginations. 

Each of these have been generously donated to our reading programme by Quarto, a global publisher who specialise in educational books, particularly in children’s literature. Their generous donation helps us share these enriching stories with even more children in our partner schools. 

Let’s get stuck in… 

All You Need To Know About Dogs by Fred Blunt | Quarto At A Glance | The Quarto Group 

Dogs are stupid. A pretty bold statement, but that’s how the blurb of this hilarious children’s book begins. Told from the perspective of a confident cat who’s trying to convince the reader that cats are better than dogs. But it’s up to you to decide in this funny, heartwarming tale! 

Target age: 4 to 6 years old.

The Cat Who Couldn't Be Bothered by Jack Kurland | Quarto At A Glance | The Quarto Group 

An important story that introduces children to the topic of mental health in an easy and heartfelt way. This children’s book covers feelings and friendship when a cat reveals he can’t be bothered to do anything because he’s feeling down. A great read to help reassure children that feeling sad is normal and people are always there to help.  

Target age: 4 to 6 years old. 

I Love Books by Mariajo Ilustrajo | Quarto At A Glance | The Quarto Group 

A spellbinding story that’ll help convince children to learn to love reading. Our main character is very excited for the end of term until she’s told she must read a whole book over the holidays. Follow her along this story of magic and adventure as she finally discovers the joy of reading.  

Target age: 3 to 5 years old. 

The Hoys by Kes Gray | Quarto At A Glance | The Quarto Group 

Ahoy there, here’s a perfect pick for a pirate lover! This children’s picture book follows Jake, who cannot see these mysterious hoys he keeps hearing so much about. Come along with Jake and find out how he’ll ever be a proper pirate if he can’t see a hoy. This book will inspire curiosity and creativity while giving readers a good laugh. 

Target age: 3 to 5 years old. 

Beyoncé by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara | Quarto At A Glance | The Quarto Group 

Part of the Little People Big Dreams series, this one is all about Beyoncé's life story, written in an inspiring and empowering way for children to understand. Check out the whole series to choose out of an amazing collection of celebrities and stars’ biographies. 

Stan Lee by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara | Quarto At A Glance | The Quarto Group 

Part of the Little People Big Dreams series, this one is all about Stan Lee’s life story. He’s the original author of the Marvel Comic series. Perfect for any Marvel, or even comic, lover to read. 

Ranger Hamza's Eco Quest by Ranger Hamza | Quarto At A Glance | The Quarto Group 

This is a non-fiction activity book based on CBeebies TV presenter, Ranger Hamza’s show. With this guide, you can take children on an eco-based adventure, and complete fun activities to learn more about nature and the world around us. 

Target age: 4 to 7 years old. 

Darwin's Super-Pooping Worm Spectacular by Polly Owen | Quarto At A Glance | The Quarto Group 

Learn all about famous scientist Charles Darwin and his bizarre fascination for worms in this hilarious children’s book. While centring mainly around the topic of faeces, this book is educational, engaging and teaches children about Darwin and the humble earthworm.  

Target age: 6 to 9 years old. 

Poems Aloud by Joseph Coelho | Quarto At A Glance | The Quarto Group 

One for building confidence, this is a collection of 20 poems designed to be read aloud by children, perfect for a class activity or way to help a shy child come out of their shell. It also gives children top tips and techniques on performing with confidence.  

Target age: 6 to 10 years old. 

The Story of Dinosaurs by Catherine Barr, Steve Williams | Quarto At A Glance | The Quarto Group 

For a child’s first book on dinosaurs, this one introduces the magical creatures that once roamed our planet. Journey back in time and learn all about the wonderous beasts in this exciting and adventurous book. 

Target age: 4 to 7 years old. 

We hope you like our top picks for 2025 and enjoy exploring lots of new and diverse reads this year!

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