The 10 best children’s books to charm even the most reluctant reader

Getting a child to fall in love with reading can feel a bit like trying to sell broccoli in a sweet shop – but the right book can work wonders.

Whether you’re tempting a devoted Bluey fan away from a screen, inspiring a budding storyteller, or simply making bedtime something to look forward to, the perfect story can turn even the most reluctant reader into a budding bookworm.

Here, Kirsty Woods – children’s book specialist at Kibworth Books and chair of The Booksellers Association’s Children’s Bookselling Group – shares 10 titles brimming with humour, heart, and adventure, each ready to spark your child’s curiosity…

For younger readers:

By the Beaver Pool by Catherine Ward

Ward’s is a great book for discussing change and new beginnings

“Beck is moving to her grandma’s farm and is uncertain about leaving her friends behind. With the help of a pair of beavers who have moved to a nearby stream, Beck learns to settle in and embrace her new home. A brilliant picture book for nature-loving little ones, and a perfect conversation starter to discuss change and new beginnings.”

Mouse by the Sea by Alice Melvin

“Whether you can escape to the seaside or not this summer, this lush picture book is utterly transporting. With stunning illustrations, a gentle story, lift-the-flap elements and the added value of a double spread of seaside facts at the end, there’s so much to pore over.”

For fans of graphic fiction:

Gordon the Meanest Goose series by Alex Latimer

“With three books now in the series and another on the way, this is a real bookshop favourite. Featuring Gordon, a goose so mean he would think nothing of stomping on your sandcastle, it’s hilariously funny, charming, and a thoroughly engaging read for even the most reluctant reader. It’s also perfect for gently talking about kindness, friendship and the bravery required to say sorry.”

Donut Squad by Neill Cameron

“An absolute household favourite for us, this new series features all the crazy Donut characters from the brilliant Phoenix comic strip. It’s vibrant, packed with anarchic humour and will not only get the kids reading, but it’ll also get them drawing too. The comic strip format is perfect for chunking reading time into bite-sized moments.”

For more confident readers:

Cruise Ship Kid by Emma Swan

“A new detective series featuring 10-year-old Silver who lives on a cruise ship. Keen to make a new friend and solve the mystery of the missing watch, she finds herself drawn into all kinds of adventures (and mishaps!). The tone is lovely, the illustrations engaging, and it’s super interactive for readers. It’s also a great read for discussions around healthy friendship and staying true to yourself.”

The Beanstalk Murder by P.G. Bell

“A master storyteller, this latest title from P.G. Bell is such a compelling read. Fairy tale adventure meets whodunit mystery coupled with brilliantly lovable characters, it’s a great summer read for boys and girls alike. Keep an eye out for Big Bad Wolf Murder out later this year, plus Bell’s very successful Train to Impossible Places for more adventures.”

For tweens, teens and older readers:

I Dare You by Tamsin Winter

Winter’s latest tackles the topic of online challenges

“Winter isn’t known as the Queen of Teen for nothing. Her latest book once again gets into the hearts and minds of teenage girls and explores the topic of online challenges. Through the characters of best friends Willow and Alma, we see how the lure of online fame and ‘going viral’ can lead to risky behaviours and test friendship to its limit. This is a great read, not only for teens, but for us grown-ups too.”

King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore

“Highly acclaimed and award-winning, this book introduces us to Anton and his friends. Year Nine students, they’re used to ruling the school – mainly through fear and disruptive behaviour. Anton’s goal? To wear the crown as the toughest guy in school. He’s got a reputation to maintain and he’s got no interest in learning.

“So when events unfold to land Anton in a local activity group, The Happy Campers, he’s unprepared for just how much his understanding of what it means to be truly tough will be put to the test. Heartwarming, hilarious and expertly handled, this is a perfect book to explore conversations around toxic masculinity, friendship and identity.”

The History of Information by Chris Haughton

“A non-fiction read in a category of its own: Incredibly ambitious and masterfully delivered, this book explores the history of information throughout history. From cave paintings through to the dissemination of information (and disinformation) through the media, Haughton’s graphic illustrations distil complex topics into understandable concepts. This is a meaty read with so much to get one’s teeth into, it’s a great pick for anyone more interested in fact than fiction.”

A Kids Book About Boredom by Kyle Steed

Steed’s book explores how boredom can be harnessed as fuel for creativity

“Part of DK Books’ brilliant ‘A Book About…’ series, which breaks down complex topics into minimal text and graphic illustration, this is one to reach for on hearing that well-known cry, ‘I’m so bored!’. A thought-provoking conversation starter, this book explores the value of boredom and how it can be harnessed as fuel for creativity and exploration.”