Recommended reading books for primary and secondary aged children in the UK
Children’s book reviews: below are our latest reviews of recent children’s and young adult fiction, poetry and non-fiction releases. We listen to recommendations from our readers, teachers, librarians, parents, grandparents, children and authors to decide which new books to review and recommend.
Our team of experienced educators, parents and librarians looks at new picture books for toddlers, early chapter books, first independent readers, middle-grade stories, poetry, teen & young adult, non-fiction and much, much more.
With over two million visitors each year since 2011, the School Reading List is one of the most read and established sources of UK reading recommendations for children’s and YA literature.
We’re committed to being a subscription-free resource for parents, schools, teachers and librarians and we hope that our reviews help to engender and embed a reading-for-pleasure ethos in classrooms and homes all over the country.
We also feature regular round-ups of new books – both fiction and non-fiction – to help support the start of autumn, spring and summer terms in schools; and a monthly ‘book of the month‘ covering new fiction, nonfiction and picture books.
Each review contains a five-word summary, the genre, the ISBN, further information about the author, illustrator and publisher; the publication date; the recommended reading age for the text, and some pointers to indicate which children we think will really enjoy the book.
For each book reviewed there’s also a useful ‘if you liked this book you might also like‘ section, to help teachers and librarians develop each child’s reading interests. Readers can also have a look at each author’s profile page, which includes information about each author, reviews of books by that author, links to teaching resources and contact details for author visits.
Many thanks to the children’s and YA book publishers, publicists and authors for sending review copies.
Sunrise on the Reaping expands the Hunger Games universe with a gripping look at Haymitch’s past. Between its layered storytelling, sharp political undertones, and compelling character arcs, this is a deliciously dark and dystopian addition to the Hunger Games world.
The Wood Where Magic Grows is a brilliant story that uses the trees alongside the newly forming relationships within Iggy’s family as metaphors for the changes we all face as we navigate our ever-evolving daily lives.
Sandy Fin: Operation Splash Landing is a light-hearted, fantasy-based, and easy read, with no reference to the Internet, mobile phones, or social media. There is plenty of scope for future books, and the two main protagonists are relatable and likeable.
My Big Fat Smelly Poo Diary Tight Squeeze is a quick, humorous read that could easily serve as a template for a class activity suitable for all levels and abilities. The stories carry underlying messages, including learning to admit your fears and dealing with disappointment.
Into The Ice: Reflection On Antarctica is a stunningly creative book that will appeal to future adventures and anyone who is curious about this unique continent.
Growing Up is a positive, relevant guide that will be highly beneficial to young readers who want the facts about puberty rather than the playground rumours. Growing Up presents an inclusive, positive guide.
Please Don’t Read the Footnotes Please is perfect for reluctant readers. It will also appeal to more confident readers who want something short to dip into. It is a charming and unique collection that will appeal to fans of Terry Pratchett’s short fiction.
The Secret of the Bush is an informative resource for KS2 teachers and young readers – particularly those aged seven and above – as it introduces them to the realities of the Ebola outbreak through a child’s perspective.
Rebel Heart is an excellent resource concentrating on the English Civil War. It’s so full of facts you don’t even realise you are assimilating them as you follow Merriweather over the course of six days in June 1645.
Wink, Murder excels at portraying how some older children played an important role in extraordinary wartime circumstances. Book three in this excellent series allows Mary Clark to take centre stage.
The Wycherleys is a gripping read with an intriguing plot, urging the reader to solve its mysteries, empathise with Aurelia, and witness the budding relationship between the main characters.
Bingsu for Two is an amusing romcom that most young adults will find relatable. The story is a smouldering yet chaotic journey with enthralling twists and turns, topped off with a trickle of solace, providing hope to young adults.
After Life is a story capturing a poignant moment in time in the lives of a grieving family and those connected to them. It is an enthralling tale that keeps you guessing until almost the very last page.
Shrapnel Boys skilfully combines an entertaining storyline and immediately likeable protagonists with historically accurate details, resulting in a gripping read. Seeing the war through Ronnie’s eyes it focuses on how families experience the realities of war.
Hi From Outer Space is a welcome addition to any KS2 and KS3 bookshelf. Katauskas swaps political cartooning for comical illustrations in this book, with short, manageable chapters for young fans of the paranormal.
The First Year is a powerful and engaging novel, particularly relevant for Year 6 pupils facing their own imminent move to secondary school, as well as those who may be struggling to fit in once they reach Year 7.
Not That Kind of Hero is an engrossing tale of finding your own path in the world and staying true to yourself. Orla is an engaging and relatable protagonist whom readers will quickly root for.
Myths, Mummies and Magic in Ancient Egypt is a high-quality non-fiction text that will appeal to both existing history enthusiasts and those keen to learn more about the subject.
The Greatest Gift is my new favourite. The combination of lovely illustrations and a thoughtful, rhyming journey really captures the unbreakable bond we share with our children, putting love and belonging into words.
Squeak! Squawk! Roar!: Amazing Animal Poems is a brilliant resource for schools but equally fun for bookcases at home and bedtime reading. Each poem is unique, offering different perspectives, styles, and playful uses of language, including wordplay and alliteration.
The Notwitches is a fun read, with imaginative characters, interesting backstories, and two main protagonists you can easily root for. It’s a book that focuses on what you can achieve with an extremely positive, though not overly so, message.
School for Fireflies has a fast-moving and engaging mystery storyline which I think is best suited to readers aged 11 to 13. There is definite scope for this to become a successful series.
Vanya and the Wild Hunt is a brilliant book – the first in a series that is sure to be hugely popular. A fantasy filled with magic, incredible locations, and believable characters, it introduces readers to Vanya Vallen.
People Like Stars by Patrice Lawrence is a wonderful book, told from three different points of view. It has fast-moving, intertwined storylines, where strong emotions and childhood responsibilities are beautifully drawn.
Where Shadows Meet is a beautifully written quest novel that seamlessly blends LGBTQ+ romance with rich fantasy world-building. It will appeal to fans of The Vampire Diaries and Netflix’s Beautiful Creatures.
Ultimate Football Heroes 2025 is a fast-paced, easy read that blends football statistics with witty commentary.
Speedwheels 3000: The Race Against Crime is a fast-moving, feel-good, madcap adventure journey for Evie and her dad. There’s a strong message at the end about how winning isn’t everything and the importance of good sportsmanship.
Sammy and the Stolen Paintings is an amusing read for children who enjoy detective stories, dogs, or simply have a great sense of humour. The chapters are short, and the text is easy to read.
Alex Neptune: Dragon Champion is perfect for fans of the Alex Neptune series and for teachers interested in looking at the destruction of the oceans in a way that can appeal to all learners..
Damien Ike and the Fallen House of Draven is a story about a young person discovering his identity within a world veiled by deception. The narrative interweaves a passion for suspenseful adventure with detailed fantasy world-building.
We Do Not Welcome Our Ten-Year-Old Overlord offers a refreshing twist on both the child with extraordinary powers and resistance against authority themes common in science fiction.
So Over This is a fantastic combination of real-life relationships and political issues, blended with imaginative preterhuman powers and the social dilemmas that accompany them.
Blitz: One Family’s War is a masterpiece of visual storytelling that will bring to life WW2 history lessons in KS2. Perfect for readers aged nine and up, it blends personal stories with historical context, making it engaging and accessible.
Ballet Besties: Indu’s Time to Shine is an inspirational story about anxiety, friendship, compassion, and acceptance. It builds on themes of responsibility, hard work, belonging, and gratitude.
The Bold Kitten is an easy read for children aged 6+ and will especially appeal to animal lovers. The Bold Kitten explores themes of diversity, different cultures, kindness, and acceptance. Prepare for a few tears – both sad and happy.
The Zombie Project has a serious message contained in this story, centred around the long-term problems caused by the use of pesticides and the corruption of big business when it is allowed to operate in secrecy.
Guardians of the Moon: Ming and Miaow’s Great Race is a fun and engaging introduction to the lunar calendar and Chinese New Year celebrations. At just 142 pages, it’s a quick read, complete with a glossary.
Guardians of the Moon: The Year of the Rat delves into the strengths of three friends, as they begin to realise that their differences make them stronger as a team.
Mondays are Murder is an absorbing, fast-paced thriller that will appeal to fans of Holly Jackson’s A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder and classic Agatha Christie mysteries. A large-scale marketing and publicity campaign is planned for the book’s launch.
Waiting for Santa is a charming Christmas picture book. The simple story of a wait-to-see Santa is enlightened by the antics of the adventurous feline Moloko, who gives Judith Kerr’s Mog a run for her money.
A Symphony of Stories: Musical Myths and Tuneful Tales will appeal to both established classical music fans and those entirely new to the genre who appreciate well-written stories and beautifully presented picture books.
Mission: Manta Ray has a storyline filled with positivity, and even when uncertainty looms, there is always someone to offer a kind word or a helping hand. It’s a great book for readers who need to see the good in others.
Pia’s Pet Club: Puppy Problem is a story full of mayhem, doggy destruction, and heartfelt conversations between Pia and her mum about her fears. The first three chapters are very enjoyable and it’s difficult to fully grasp what will happen next.
Blue, Barry & Pancakes: Beach Ball Bedlam by is the perfect book for younger reluctant readers. As a graphic novel, most pages feature just one illustration and very few words, yet it delivers a strong and engaging story with a meaningful message.
The Raven’s Eye Runaways is centred in Spitchwick and the surrounding countryside, where reading and writing are forbidden to all but a select few. Only influential families, society members, scribes, and those who regulate their activities are permitted to learn.
We Can! Make a Difference is both for and by children. The actions depicted in the book are practical and achievable – focusing on equal rights, the environment, and respect for others. The literacy message is also highly relevant.
Nature Tales: An Anthology of Seasonal Stories from Around the World is a beautifully presented collection of fables that will appeal to young nature lovers. This is a truly global collection, including tales from Mexico, Finland & Ukraine.
Phantom Hearts is a gripping graphic novel of love and loss. The story explores themes of found family, being true to yourself, and fighting for the truth amidst rumours and social media hype.
All Aboard The Bedtime Bus is an ideal read for preschoolers before nap time or bedtime, helping their eyes grow droopy and guiding them into a tranquil slumber.
A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing the Perfect Pet includes snippets of clever, playful scenarios, such as a child playing hide and seek with a tiger—after all, most of us would hide from a tiger!
Ethel the Penguin has a familiar, repetitive, rhythmic feel that young children aged 3–6 will enjoy. Who wouldn’t want a wild, fun penguin living next door in an iceberg semi-detached?
Land of the Last Wildcat weaves an environmental message through an adventure story that also covers challenging subjects such as the loss of a parent, workplace bullying, and the struggles associated with single parenthood.
Shiver Point: Under A Howling Moon is part of a series worth investing in – not just for its chilly theme, but also its writing. Dylan’s horroresque analogies are great starting points for scary storytelling activities.
Your Time is Up is a great story to recommend to GCSE and above pupils who love action-filled murder mysteries with the added depth of complicated teenage relationships. Will Zaina ever finish her final Maths exam?
Jakub’s Otter is a lovely book that tells an all-too-common, sad story in a way that is uplifting rather than depressing or preachy. Jakub, a young carer, has the sole responsibility of looking after his mum.
The Skeleton in the Cupboard: and other stories create a pleasant and positive atmosphere where nature and creativity flourish. It is a beautifully written, dreamlike storybook that I would recommend for Key Stage 2 children.
Nina Peanut: Mega Mystery Solver is an entertaining and enjoyable read for older children. It’s perfect for fans of Wimpy Kid and Lottie Brooks. This comic-style book is hilarious, with bright, humorous illustrations that make it hugely engaging.
The River Thief should suit confident readers from Year 5 onwards. There are plenty of discussion points in this thought-provoking book, which, once started, should encourage most children to finish it.
Time Travellers – Secrets and Spies is an exciting, gripping adventure story that educates through curiosity and excitement and could inspire the next generation to avoid past mistakes and consider ethical behaviours.
The Wild Robot is a charming story of artificial intelligence, an orphaned goose, wildlife, and climate change storms entwining to show loss, disaster, growth. This spirited story explores the possibilities when robot and nature collide and grow together.
The Arctic Fox is a lovely book. The messages it contains are relayed positively, showing how things have improved in some environmental areas, as well as highlighting things we can do to reduce our carbon footprint.
Desert Echoes is a bold and resolute novel that confronts sensitive issues related to culture and sexuality, providing hope and optimism, and restoring belief in happy endings. The story is poignant and impactful and beautifully narrated.
Handle With Care begins right in the middle of the action, and the fast pace continues until the final page. Opening with a dramatic and unexpected birth in a history classroom, the mysteries surrounding the situation are gradually revealed.
Let’s Split Up is a fast-paced, twisty read that blends a high school LGBTQ romance with a classic ‘whodunit’, reminiscent of Scooby-Doo and his gang. Let’s Split Up will appeal to fans of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder and Netflix’s Sabrina.
I Shall Never Fall in Love is a heart-warmingly inclusive period romance, perfect for fans of Lex Croucher’s Gwen and Art are Not in Love and Alice Oseman’s Heartstopper.
Little Spruce is a heart-warming Christmas story that would make a perfect addition to a festive storytelling session or child’s stocking. The beautiful illustrations are full of inclusive characters and feature a blended family.
Shadow Creatures is an utterly compelling and must-read story. It’s ideal for whole class reading in UKS2, children aged 9 upwards studying World War Two and for pupils who have enjoyed Goodnight Mr Tom and When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit.
Presto! Magical Recovery Co. is an easy read about a young girl whose regimented life becomes far less ordinary than she ever thought it could be. Follow Amber’s life as she is taken to places she didn’t know existed.
Dance Just Like So has its own fast rhythm that carries you through the story at a fast pace and quickens your pulse. Any children who are a bit musical, theatrical or like to dance, will love this.
Maggie Sparks and the Fang-tastic Fairground is a good read for 5-9-year-old children. And if they love it, it’s just one of a growing collection of Maggie Sparks magical adventures.
Within the Heart of Wicked Creatures is a must read for those who enjoy fantasy, and young adult themes. A steady read which slowly unravels, it will suit teen readers who are seeking a gradual but inspiring read.
Bigg School: Secret Crush is a great book for showing how changing emotions in our early teens can surprise us. Astrid is confident, she doesn’t follow everyone else, and she’s quite glad some of her classmates think she’s a bit weird!
Twenty-Four Seconds From Now is a powerful and touching modern-day romance that will inspire older readers to trust their instincts and wait until they find ‘the one’. It will appeal to fans of Judy Blume and Kwame Alexander.
Serena and Laloolee Fly Away is a delightful fable that will appeal to young readers and older storytellers. It will be a particular delight for bedtime story sessions.
Chris Mould’s War of the Worlds is a worthy addition to the many interpretations of this classic tale. This high-quality text will appeal to fans of both traditional science fiction and modern graphic novels.
The Dark Within Us is gripping and undoubtedly well-planned and researched. It provides a refreshing addition to the large collection of supernatural adventure/ romances available to young people.
Peng and Spanners: When Pigs Go Bad is ideal for readers who lack in confidence or crave a quick light-hearted read. The randomness of character, plot and dialogue reminds children that reading can be fun.
I Hear You, Mountains is a lovely read if you’re planning on going to the countryside, park or any outdoor space. Appreciating the outdoors using senses and mindfulness techniques is very therapeutic to mind and body.
I Am a Courageous Cub is a good social storybook to promote self-regulation and positive well-being in young children and a great resource for preschools and schools.
My Big Fat Smelly Poo Diary is a book to make parents shudder and children laugh out loud! The humour is pretty much all poo related both in words and illustrations and the book would be suitable for confident and less confident readers alike.
Montezuma’s Tantrum is a brightly illustrated, informative, book about the Aztecs which gives just enough information for younger students to to be able to answer historical questions or for those who are slightly older to write a simple report.
The Reluctant Vampire Queen Finds her Fangs is ideal for less confident 12+ year-old readers who would benefit from an easy read laced with comedy, absurdity and occasional emotion. It’s great for a group read to explore issues common to many adolescents.
The River’s a Singer is an engaging, culturally diverse poetry collection that will appeal to fans of Michael Rosen and Joseph Coelho. The series of poems on a traditional Jamaican Christmas are particularly enlightening.
When It’s Your Turn For Midnight is a hard-hitting but ultimately uplifting novel for older teenagers. It is likely to appeal particularly to fans of Malorie Blackman and Sarah Crossan.
I Will Never Leave You is ideal for Y8 and upwards book clubs and YA readers who are seeking something that is easy to follow and a little unusual in the issues and concepts it confronts.
Griselda Snook’s Spectacular Books is a great picture book full of friendly, Halloween-themed characters that will excite any reader of lower primary school age. Timms shows the reader that books can be for everyone.
Mabel and the Big Wide World is a truly wonderful book that any child below the age of 7 would be delighted to read. The images in this book are stunning with detailed collages of landscapes, flowers and life.
Roar: A Celebration of Great Sporting Women is great to dip into in reading groups, or citizenship or tutor time sessions, to help open conversations with teens about the challenges they face and whose footsteps they might follow in.
Work It, Lara Bloom by Dee Benson is thoroughly enjoyable for the intended audience. For promoting and helping to sustain leisure reading in KS3, this title would be a perfect addition to secondary school library collections.
The Colour of Revenge is an amazing, original, and exciting book, which draws the reader in and takes them on a fascinating journey with so many twists, turns, and unexpected cliff-hangers that it is almost impossible to put down.
Love Is All We Need sends a powerful and important message to the young reader. It’s a wonderfully vibrant and happy book that I recommend for children from nursery age and upwards.
Gina Kaminiski Rescues the Giant is a smart delight and the illustrations are beautiful and really bring everything together. As a teacher and educator understanding the importance of visual emotions, it is a book I would read to children and recommend to teachers.
Little Bear Lost brought memories flooding back to me of reading Jane Hissey’s earlier books to my children many years ago. I recognised the characters in this book immediately, as did my 23-year-old daughter.
Pizza Pete and the Missing Magic is packed full of talk of pizza, flapjacks, funny names, and bizarre, beak-growing moments that will really appeal. Carrie Sellon has created relatable characters and developed personalities.
With The Great Phoenix of London, Lindsay Galvin has once again woven a legend into a hugely significant historical event – an excellent way of grasping and keeping the attention of students aged between 9 and 12.
Mia and the Secrets of Lunis is a first-class read. Mia has been a relatable main protagonist from the start, struggling with both the every day and the unique problems she has encountered in her young life.
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