Spring 2026 new children’s books – here’s our selection of top new titles coming out during spring term 2026 and available to buy or pre-order in January, February and March 2026. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction, poetry, young adult novels and non-fiction for children aged 3-16+. The titles below are books that (at the time of writing) are due to be released during this spring term in UK schools and in time to pre-order for the new school term. These books have been chosen with classroom teaching, school libraries, home learning, reading for pleasure and reading for wisdom in mind.
Spring 2026 new children’s books – our recommendations
New picture books for spring 2026
This is My Book by Tim Harris and Heidi McKinnon. 
Mr Norton’s New Truck by Huw Lewis Jones and Corey Egbert. 
My Tiger by Joy Cowley, illustrated by David Barrow. The Royal Request by Monika Singh Gangotra, illustrated by Mirna Imamovic
Ari and his grandad are picked to deliver a grand birthday cake from their family bakery to the queen’s palace for her peacock. The trip is anything but simple. The cake is heavy, the cart breaks, and every town they pass through offers help mixed with very strong opinions. As they muddle their way forward, this touching and memorable picture book for 4+ year olds leans into family tradition, problem-solving solving and the loving bond between grandparents and grandchildren.
There Is Not Usually A Hole by Daisy Hirst. 
The Future Book by Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris. 
The Whale That Sings in the Deep by Yuval Zommer. The Map of Me by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Olga Shtonda
When a young girl moves to a new country, she copes by carefully drawing a map with her mum. They add the people they meet, the places they discover, and all the memories she wants to hold on to. As friends share their own stories, the map grows into something spellbinding that links them all. When her life shifts again, she learns she can adapt and keep shaping her map, using it to make sense of where she has been and where she is going. This highly imaginative, touching and useful picture book is ideal to read and discuss with EYFS classes. Highly recommended.
The Heart of the Storm by Teresa Heapy and Kate Read. 
Beyond by Katie Cleminson. 
Once I Was a Giant by Zeno Sworder. Grandad’s World by Michael Foreman
Jack spends his days exploring the countryside with his grandad, watching wildlife and looking after the village pond. When they discover rubbish dumped in the water, the pair rally neighbours to help bring the pond back to life. Their efforts highlight the bond between generations and the importance of caring for local nature. Michael Foreman weaves themes of community action and environmental responsibility into a warm, feel-good picture book for 4–7-year-olds.
Bath Time for the Crayons by Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers. 
Different by Eva Eland. 
Tomorrow I’m in Charge! by Jörg Mϋhle. Goldilocs by Ella McLeod and Rochelle Falconer
Goldilocs tries out every role she can think of, from Witch to Evil Queen to perfect Princess, but none of them feel quite right. With a bit of encouragement from her friends, she works out that she does not need to match anyone else’s idea of who she should be. Told in catchy rhyme with vibrant, eye-catching illustrations, the story gives young readers a subtle reminder that identity starts with being yourself. It’s a useful modern fairy tale picture book for EYFS classes.
The Fabric of Us by Aditi Anand. 
Little Passenger by Deirdre Sullivan and Jessica Love. 
Isla and the Sky by Greg Stobbs. 
The Bear and the Seed by Poonam Mistry. 
The Big Green by Ken Wilson-Max. 
Issun Boshi by Icinori. 
Raindrops by Robin Boyden. 
The Brave Little Whale by Charlotte Manning. 
Mo’s Stick by Fiona Lumbers. 
The Sad Book by Howard Pearlstein. 
Monkeypig by Huw Aaron. 
The Cloud: A Bear and Bird Picture Book by Jarvis. Tyrannosaurus Veg by Smriti Halls and Katherina Manolessou
Reg the T. rex prefers crunchy greens to meat, which earns him plenty of teasing from the other dinosaurs. Feeling out of place, he heads off to find somewhere he truly fits in. When trouble hits, Reg’s strength and healthy habits turn out to be exactly what’s needed, surprising everyone who doubted him. With lively illustrations and a warm, funny tone, this fun-filled food-themed dinosaur picture book for 0-5 year olds celebrates individuality, friendship, and the confidence to try new things.
Bear’s Perfect Dance by Rachel Tilda Wolf. 
The Awesomely Adventurous Librarians by Donna David and Victoria Stebleva. 
Capybara Disco Dreams by Frances Stickley and Nikki Dyson. 
The Lost Robot by Joe Todd-Stanton. 
The Laugh by Fay Evans and Ayse Klinge. 
You Choose Farm by Nick Sharratt and Pippa Goodhart. New fiction 5-7 for spring 2026
The O. D. D. Squad: Operation Hyperkitty by Stuart Heritage, illustrated by Vincent Batignole. 
Jake in the Middle by Michael Catchpool, illustrated by Shanarama. 
Bad United: Team Spirit by Louise Forshaw. Aya Has Never Seen a Bear by Gerelchimeg Blackcrane, illustrated by Jiu Er
Aya, a young Oroqen girl, sets out with her grandfather to search for bears in the forests of northern China. Their journey introduces readers to Oroqen traditions, the rhythm of the seasons and the wildlife that shares their land. Spectacular, atmospheric and highly detailed illustrations show the plants, animals and the careful ways they move through the forest, always with respect for nature. This large-format picture book also includes background on Oroqen history, offering 6–8-year-olds a thought-provoking glimpse into a fascinating culture.
Emerald and the Sea Dragon by Harriet Muncaster
Emerald may be a mermaid princess, but she would much rather roam the ocean with her friends and her pet octopus than practise royal duties. After a storm, she discovers a mysterious egg that hatches into a baby sea dragon, and suddenly she has a far bigger responsibility on her hands. With support from her family and her friend Delphina, Emerald sets off to find the dragon’s true home. This early chapter book offers 5-7 year olds sparkling, sea-themed adventures with plenty of illustrations.
Maggie Sparks and the Postcard Portal by Steve Smallman, illustrated by Esther Hernando. 
Pia’s Pet Club by Serena Patel, illustrated by Emma McCann. 
Tales of Time and Space by Terry Pratchett. The Spectacular Space Loop by Javi De Castro
When young astronaut Cosmo blasts into space to test a new jet pack, he sets off a string of strange encounters with robots, aliens and even the odd magician. But halfway through, the comic flips upside down, prompting readers to turn the book and see each scene from a fresh angle. The uniquely immersive and child-centred design thrusts 5–7 year olds into the heart of the adventure, inviting them to notice just how much a story changes when you look at it from a different point of view. Outstanding and highly recommended.
New fiction 7-9 for spring 2026
Celeste Express: the Purrfect Crime by Alexander Slater. 
Werelock and Scratch: Robbery Most Puzzling by K. R. Thompson. 
Scare B’n’B by Catherine Doyle, illustrated by Rachael Dean. The Far-Out Five: Snot Jelly Island by Olaf Falafel
A day at the funfair goes wildly wrong when a magician’s trick turns a group of friends into odd creatures. With no wand to undo the spell and home a long way off, the Far Out Five set off across a string of strange islands, bumping into bizarre characters and tackling one challenge after another. The result is a super-fun, lively graphic novel packed with jokes, vibrant colours and a quirky, relatable cast trying their best to get everything back to normal. Likely to be very popular in KS2.
The Mubbles by Liz Pichon. 
Dave Pigeon (Dave Vs Dave!) by Swapna Haddow, illustrated by Sheena Dempsey. 
Alan, King of the Universe 2 by Tom McLaughlin. Chicken Hill: Attack of the Zombie Cactus by Beccy Blake
Ferdy, Gripper the pug, and Tink the cat team up to investigate the strange goings-on in their town, including frog empires, zombie cactuses, and the odd alien or two. Told in full-colour graphic novel style, this trio of stories is packed with talking animals, quirky inventions, and plenty of unexpected twists. With its fast pace and chaotic humour, Chicken Hill is a winning pick for 7-12-year-olds who love fun cartoon-style adventures and chaotic comedy. Your Year 3 & 4 classes will love it!
Kid Potato by Neil Coslett. 
Runt by Craig Silvey, illustrated by Sarah Acton. 
Dante N. Ferno: Camp Catastrophe by Brian Gordon. Tiny Hercules by Jon Lock and Nich Angell
Tiny Hercules, the world’s smallest hero, is on a mission to get back to Tiny Olympus. After being kicked out for a party disaster, he’s stuck on Earth with twelve ridiculous tasks to complete, starting with chasing a cat he thinks is a lion. Set in the wonderfully named Chutney-on-Toast, this madcap tale brings together Jeff and a Zeus-like swan for a wild, funny, myth-laden graphic novel adventure. Bright artwork and accessible comic-style action make Tiny Hercules a surefire hit series for 7+ year olds. Highly recommended. Read our full review.
Toby and the Pixies: How To Be Cool! by James Turner and Andreas Schuster. 
Guardians of the New Moon: The Year of the Tiger by Eric Huang and Phùng Nguyên Quang. 
Sadie Jones and the Ball by Sally Nicholls, illustrated by Ashley King. Pets Tell Tales: Ancient Rome by Rik Worth and Jordan Collver
Meet the animals of ancient Rome: some were entertainers, others were soldiers, and a few were even trusted with predicting the future. This graphic novel uncovers their unexpected roles, from lions in the Colosseum to elephants in battle, and traces how creatures moved with the empire, from Britain to the Middle East. Aimed at 7+ year olds, Pets Tell Tales: Ancient Rome is the latest instalment in the highly accessible historical comic series by Rik Worth and Jordan Collver. It’s ideal for Year 3&4 classroom libraries.
Donut Squad: Make a Mess! by Neill Cameron. 
The Misadventures of Mina Mahmood: The School Inspectors! by Farhana Islam, illustrated by Simran Diamond Singh. 
The Accidental Viking by Karen McCombie, illustrated by Anneli Bray. New fiction 9-12 for Spring 2026
Boy Vs Reality by James Fox. 
You vs The Poison Plot by Josh Hicks. 
The Galileo Heist by Sam Sedgman. Anya and the Light Above the Ocean by Amelia Giudici
Anya’s search for her missing mum begins in the middle of a fierce sea storm. When she spots a strange window of light and wakes to an unsettling silence, nothing feels real anymore. Sent to live with a couple she barely knows, Anya starts to piece together a secret that reshapes everything she thought she understood about her family and herself. A haunting story of mystery, science fiction, and identity, the plot is wrapped in sparkling writing, swirling storms, and quiet revelations. Anya and the Light Above the Ocean is an outstandingly original and imaginative middle-grade novel for 10–12-year-olds in UKS2 and LKS3. The ultimate book club read, it will provoke endless discussion – highly recommended. Read our full review.
Bridge of Storms by Philip Reeve. 
The Impossible Gladiator by M. G. Leonard. 
Evenfall: the Tempest Stone by Alexander Armstrong. The Lions’ Run by Sara Pennypacker
Lucas lives in a quiet French village under Nazi occupation and is used to keeping his head down. Everything changes when he rescues a litter of kittens and meets Alice, a British girl secretly sheltering a horse. Bit by bit, he is drawn into the village’s hidden resistance network, where coded messages pass between neighbours who risk everything to protect one another. As danger closes in, Lucas must decide how far he is willing to go and discovers he is braver than he ever believed. Brilliantly written with vivid, rich language, The Lions’ Run is perfect for readers in early KS3.
Nova by Chris Bradford, illustrated by Charlotte Grange
When Max Nova joins his dad, a space trucker, on a routine run to Mercury, an odd gravity reading throws their ship wildly off course. Dragged through a wormhole, Max ends up far from home and facing dangers he has never even imagined. To get back, he has to navigate hostile worlds, strange creatures and a whole lot of space trouble. This compelling blend of sci-fi, survival and fast-moving adventure is perfect for 9+ year olds with a reading age of 7.
Secrets of the Broken House by Taryn Souders. 
The Dad Trap by Ian Eagleton. 
The Golden Monkey Mystery by Piu Dasgupta. The Blitz Sisters by Judith Eagle
As war sweeps through London, Lydia, Peggy, and Teddy find their lives changed forever. From evacuation trains to bombed-out streets, the sisters face danger, loss, and separation, yet each discovers courage in unexpected places. Along the way, they form new friendships and chase fresh ambitions, even as the world around them shifts. Blending vivid historical detail with warmth and hope, The Blitz Sisters is a spellbinding and deeply moving story of family, resilience, and finding light in dark times. Highly recommended for children in UKS2 and LKS3. Read our full review.
Ticket for Murder by Niyla Farook. 
Finn’s Epic Fails by Phil Earle, illustrated by Al Murphy. 
Serial Chillers: Monster in the Mines by Jennifer Killick. Dragon Girl and the Awakened Flames by Jenny Moore
Emba Oak has always lived in a cave, her scaly skin marking her out as different. But when she discovers she hatched from a dragon’s egg, everything changes. Her blood holds a power that an ancient necromancer is desperate to steal. As danger spreads, Emba must figure out who she really is and how to control her strength before anyone else gets hurt. Dragon Girl and the Awakened Flames is the first in Jenny Moore’s highly anticipated blockbuster fantasy adventure series for 8–12-year-olds. Emba and Odolf’s banter and bond make their magical quest both relatable and unforgettable, and this fast-paced blockbuster about family, friendship and bravery is bound to fly off your school library shelf. Read our full review.
The Lost Dragon of Roar by Jenny McLachlan, illustrated by Ben Mantle and Alla Khatkevich. 
The Night of Borrowed Time by Iqbal Hussain. 
This Camp is Doomed: A Dennith Grange Misadventure by Anna Zobel. Magpie Girl by Rowan Foxwood
Lavender Wild has always been different – she can talk to birds and is slowly growing feathers of her own. When her friend Kit’s father vanishes on the firebird’s mountain, Lavender joins him on a perilous rescue mission. Together they face daemons, witches, and old betrayals as they race to stop the firebird’s return. Blending magic, adventure, and the haunting pull of lost wishes, Magpie Girl is a highly engaging, lyrical fantasy tale for 9+ year olds about trust, courage, and finding your true self. Read a free extract.
Murder at Hotel Marvelo by Ruth Lauren, illustrated by Federica Frenna. 
Nadia Islam, on the Record by Adiba Jaigirdar. 
Dare Devil by Lisa Williamson, illustrated by Jess Bradley. The Moonhaven Chronicles: The Last Wolf by Rob Biddulph
Jax, Jovi, Esau, and Fourth love sneaking out after dark to uncover Moonhaven’s secrets. But when a werewolf attack terrifies the town, the friends are suddenly accused and hunted by the Nighthawks. On the run, they must stick together to uncover what’s really lurking in the shadows before time runs out. Packed with over 100 illustrations and quick-fire chapters, Rob Biddulph’s outstanding tale drips with mystery, danger, and friendship, perfect for 9–11-year-olds who crave suspense and thrills. Highly recommended. Read our full review.
Time Travel Twins: The Victorian Revolution by Josh Lacey, illustrated by Garry Parsons. 
The Day My Brother Got Famous by Jen Carney. 
Keeping Possession by Eve Ainsworth, illustrated by Luna Valentine. Escape from the Child Snatchers by Sufiya Ahmed
In 1865, Humza and Ranj leave Bombay as stowaways, hoping to find Humza’s missing brother in London. Their journey soon turns dangerous when they cross paths with a ruthless child snatcher. With the help of Daisy, the innkeeper’s quick-thinking daughter, they race through the city in search of Dani. Inspired by real accounts of Indian children in Victorian England, Escape from the Child Snatchers is a fast-paced, atmospheric tale that brings history vividly to life. Utterly gripping, Escape from the Child Snatchers has the pace, plot, and timeless immersive style that will truly engage children with historical fiction. Read our full review.
The Monsters at the End of the World by Rebecca Orwin, illustrated by Oriol Vidal
In a battered coastal town, Sunny grows up fearing the sea monsters everyone talks about, until she meets Mo, a gentle creature desperate to find his missing brother. Helping him brings hidden truths in her community to the surface, and surviving becomes tougher by the day. As the two push through rising danger, the story leans into shifting perceptions, fragile trust and an unlikely friendship shaped by a post-apocalyptic world. It’s a stunning middle-grade novel that will challenge 9–11-year-olds to think deeply. Highly recommended.
Dungeon Runners Level 3: Ocean Chase by Kieran Larwood and Joe Todd-Stanton. 
Silverbrook: Yumna and the Golden Horse by Yassmin Abdel-Magied. 
Advice from a 12-Year-Old Nobody by Helen Rutter, illustrated by Julia Christians. Tree Thing by Piers Torday, illustrated by Matthew Taylor Wilson
Marlo lives in a bleak valley where nothing grows, until his squirrel uncovers a glowing acorn that sprouts into Tree Thing and slowly brings the land back to life. When a shadowy rider appears and threatens the new growth, Marlo must find the courage to protect the creature he helped nurture. Inspired by the depth of feeling surrounding the Sycamore Gap felling, Piers Torday’s mesmerising story leans into themes of nature, landscape and resilience, with Matthew Taylor Wilson’s enchanting illustrations adding atmosphere and warmth throughout. Highly recommended.
When the World Ends by Joanna Nadin
Joanna Nadin’s novel follows two groups of children travelling through a ruined England after a global disaster. Each group holds on to rumours of a safe haven and confronts its own run of danger, wrong turns and uneasy alliances. As they move across the broken landscape, the children work out what survival means when everything familiar has gone, learning to trust, cooperate and adapt. An unforgettable middle-grade story filled with grit, inspiration and hope.
Quill and the Last Generation by C. M. Lewis
In a world where no children have been born for twelve years, Quill is a rare twelve-year-old. When a shapeshifting raven appears, it draws him into a realm of myth and magic filled with dragons, lost souls, a monstrous hound, and a horse made of water. Some even believe he is the long-awaited hero destined to face the King of Darkness and claim the Light of the World. Steeped in Welsh mythology and folklore, this distinctive fantasy adventure for 9–12-year-olds will be hard to put down. Read our full review.
Hari Kumar, Ultimate Superstar by Rashmi Sirdeshpande, illustrated by Mamta Singh. 
A Girl’s Guide to Spying by Holly Webb. 
The Shadow Pony by Olivia Wakeford, illustrated by David Litchfield. Detectograms® by Tim Collins, illustrated by Steven Wood
Detectograms by Tim Collins sends Inspector Cross and her team after the elusive Dempsey Gang, but there’s a twist: every short chapter ends with a puzzle that 8–12-year-olds must crack before the case can continue. Codes, clues, maps and hidden details make up the 46 Detectograms, turning the story into an interactive chase. Steven Wood’s illustrations add extra hints and atmosphere, giving children a lively mix of mystery and hands-on problem solving. Uniquely engaging, Detectograms is highly recommended for KS2.
Murder at the Ivy Hotel by Emily Hourican. 
Amari and the Metalwork Menace by B. B. Alston. 
The Street Art Mystery by Sharna Jackson. The Not-So Great Escape by Emma Green
Hedley Ambrose’s world flips upside down when his best friend Aiden steals an alpaca, kicking off a chaotic road trip across the country. Wrongly accused of being the thief, Hedley stumbles from one disaster to another, accidentally robbing a petrol station, getting lost in haunted woods, and becoming an online hit as the #AlpacaBandit. Along the way, he’s forced to face the messier parts of friendship, grief, and growing up in this sharp, funny, and heartfelt adventure. Highly recommended, it’s great fun for 9–12-year-olds. Read our full review.
Clem Fatale Has Been Upstaged by Eve Wersocki-Morris, illustrated by Honie Beam. 
Scarlet Saves the Multiverse by James Davis, illustrated by Dotty Sutton. 
Ice Apprentices: The Frozen Curse by Jacob North. The Overthinkers’ Club by Nat Luurtsema, illustrated by Cécile Dormeau
12-year-old Birdie is determined to fix the chaos of growing up with something she calls her Happy List. Unfortunately, friendships wobble, family life shifts, and school throws up problems faster than she can tick anything off, and she overthinks every step. Told through her diary entries and comic-style drawings, the story captures her worries with honesty and humour. It’s the first in an addictive new illustrated series for 9–12-year-olds, exploring friendship and mental health from Birdie’s uniquely readable point of view. We think The Overthinkers’ Club will be very popular with readers in Year 6 and 7. Highly recommended.
New 12-16 young adult novels for spring 2026
Better Off Dead by Tess James-Mackey. 
Were Bad Idea Right by K. L. Walther. 
War of Wyverns by S. F. Williamson. New You Forever by Steve Cole, illustrated by Chris King
Set in 2070, the story follows young journalist Anders Jones as he looks into the New You Foundation, an organisation claiming it can fix climate change by replacing people with artificial replicas called Pleekas. The deeper Anders digs, the stranger it gets, and he soon realises the Foundation’s promise of digital immortality comes with serious dangers. Especially suited to less confident 11+ year old readers, this outstanding novella deftly explores technology, identity and the environmental crises shaping Anders’s world. It’s ideal for discussion in KS3.
Control Alter Delete by K. L. Kettle
Hal lives in a world where virtual reality shapes almost everything, and winning the Knox Cup could earn her a meeting with tech icon Francis Knox. What begins as a high-pressure competition soon cracks open, revealing faults in the glossy system she has always trusted. As Hal pushes further, she is forced to question who holds the power and what she is willing to risk. It’s a deliciously sharp speculative YA story about technology, control and self. Highly recommended.
The Golden Boy’s Guide to Bipolar by Sonora Reyes. 
At the End of Everything by Marieke Nijkamp. 
Heartbreak Era by Sophie Jo. Kill Me Now by Helen Price
When Riley North is found dead, suspicion quickly falls on the funeral director’s son, Guy “Reaper” Mortimer. Determined to clear his name, Reaper teams up with Samira, Betty and Riley’s friends Bunsen and Snake to dig into what’s really going on. As more students are killed and dark secrets come to light, it becomes clear the murderer is punishing hidden sins. Set in a tense school environment, this cracking crime mystery for 14+ year olds tackles guilt, bullying, trust and the extreme pressures of friendship. It’s a delightfully toxic killer thriller. Highly recommended.
To the Death by Melissa Welliver
On Blood Island, a televised survival game forces contestants to fight the undead while millions watch. Astrid is teamed with newcomer Luke, and every move they make depends on public votes, fragile alliances and competitors who can be as deadly as the creatures chasing them. As the game twists around them, the story digs into media manipulation, trust and the cost of turning danger into entertainment, creating a sharp, utterly compelling and prescient dystopian thriller for 14+ year olds.
Gone for Good by Sarah Crossan. 
How the Other Half Kill by P. C. Roscoe. 
All the Cursed Creatures by Amie Jordan. Burn the Water by Billy Ray
Billy Ray’s Romeo and Juliet-inspired YA novel dives into a waterlogged London in 2425, where the Crowns and the Rogues have been locked in battle for generations. Rafe, a Rogue captain, and Jule, a Crown soldier, are supposed to hate each other, yet their dangerous romance sparks in the midst of war. With shifting loyalties and foreign powers closing in, their story blends survival, conflict and forbidden love in a vividly dystopian world. It is a heady mix of climate science fiction and a reimagined world, threaded around an enemies-to-lovers plot that will captivate 12+ year old readers in KS3. Highly recommended.
Catch by Sarah Brill
Sixteen-year-old Beth already has enough on her plate, from a growth spurt that makes her stand out to basketball, school stress and her sister’s unexpected pregnancy. Then she discovers she can catch people who fall from heights, a strange ability that pulls her into the lives of total strangers. As the rescues mount, Beth has to juggle responsibility, fear and curiosity while working out what this power means for her and the people she cares about. A stunning and memorable YA novel about heroism and the value of life.
All We Once Had by Katy Upperman. 
The Sun and the Starmaker by Rachel Griffin. 
For Real This Time by Beth Reekles. Beth Is Dead by Katie Bernet
This inventive novel for 12+ year olds reimagines Little Women as a modern murder mystery. On New Year’s Day, Beth March is discovered dead in the woods, and her sisters Meg, Jo, and Amy begin their search for the killer. Friends, neighbours, and even family members fall under suspicion as flashbacks reveal Beth’s own perspective alongside the investigation. Themes of ambition, loyalty, and rivalry are central, placing the March sisters at the heart of a nail-biting, addictive, and fast-paced thriller. It is ideal for YA crime fans in KS4. Read our full review.
Angel Cake by Kimberly Whittam. 
Big Words by Luke Palmer. 
The Spiral Key by Kelsey Day. Sweet and Sour by Monique Turner
Mikah and his friends start a mukbang channel in a world where AI influencer robots rule the feeds, hoping their very human chaos will set them apart. It works, but the sudden fame quickly eats into Mikah’s health and friendships. As the views climb, so do the pressures, and the shine of online success turns uneasy fast. This YA novel for 12+ year olds digs deep into internet culture, tech-shaped lives and what happens when popularity comes with a price. A stand-out contemporary thriller with a deliciously dark twist.
They Call Her Regret by Channelle Desamours
Simone Washington plans a Halloween sleepover for her eighteenth birthday at a lake said to be haunted by a witch called Regret. When her best friend Kira dies during the night, Simone is confronted by the witch herself and given a brutal bargain: free Regret from her curse within fourteen days and Kira will live, along with the chance to erase Simone’s own regrets. As the clock runs down, Simone digs into the town’s history, unearths buried truths and faces the past she has tried to avoid. It’s a fascinating, twisty and gripping mystery for 13+ year olds.
In Time with You by Kristin Dwyer. 
The Experiment by Rebecca Stead. 
Unbridled by Kelly McKain. Carnival Fantástico by Angela Montoya
Angela Montoya’s Carnival Fantástico centres on Esmeralda, who poses as a fortune-teller in a magical travelling carnival, and Ignacio, an army defector searching for evidence against his father. They form an alliance to expose corruption and secure a future in the carnival, all while navigating old feelings and hidden dangers. Set in a magical romantasy world, this unputdownable, fast-moving novel for 14+ year olds weaves magic, secrets and second chances into its unceasingly exciting plot.
Red Star Rebels by Amie Kaufman
In 2067, Hunter Graves and Cleo find themselves stranded at a United Nations base on Mars with a group of mercenaries closing in. With just eight hours before the base is destroyed, the two teens are forced into a high-stakes race against time. As danger tightens its grip, this science fiction adventure digs into survival, corporate power and the uneasy bond that forms between two very different people under extreme pressure. With a sharp premise and stunning delivery, Red Star Rebels will grip 14+ year olds.
A Witch’s Guide to Love and Deception by Aamna Qureshi. 
The Cursed Melodies by Connie Glynn. 
Queen of Faces by Petra Lord. Arcana – The Lost Heirs by Sam Prentice-Jones
Eli Jones stumbles into a hidden world of magic when he joins the Arcana, a secretive circle of witches ruled by the Majors. Working with James, Daphne, Koko and Sonny, he begins to piece together the truth behind a curse linked to their parents’ deaths and the Arcana’s grip on power. As secrets surface and loyalties shift, the friends push back against the Majors and risk everything to break the cycle. This stunning graphic novel will immerse KS4 students in family secrets, surprising bravery and buried truths.
The Fox Hunt by Caitlin Breeze. 
Skulduggery Pleasant: A Soul Full of Shadows by Derek Landy. 
Hallowed by Cynthia Hand. These Shattered Spires by Cassidy Ellis Salter
In a crumbling castle where danger seeps through every shadow, four rival familiars are forced to work together to survive a brutal contest. Each draws power from a different source – blood, bone, stone, or botany – and none trusts the others. With the ruler murdered and the clock ticking, they have only 48 hours to find the magical keys and escape the Slaughter. Blending gothic fantasy, intrigue, and found family, it’s a dark, beautiful, and astonishingly good story of loyalty and survival. It’s perfect for KS4 libraries and book clubs. Highly recommended.
A Wild Romance by Maria Ingrande Mora. 
Gods Beneath the Ice by Alexandra Kennington. 
Tidespeaker by Sadie Turner. Day of Now by Miranda Reason
Dayna and Pax have grown up in the shadow of a fungal outbreak that has wiped out most of society. They live quietly with their father until he falls sick, and their call for help brings far more danger than relief. Forced out into a broken landscape, the siblings push on in search of people they can trust. This incendiary YA story, told in 55 short chapters, follows their shifting threats, uneasy alliances and the tough choices they must make to keep their family together. It’s a fresh, original and genuinely affecting dystopian novel for 13+ year olds. Highly recommended.
New children’s poetry and drama books for spring 2026
Poetry Pizza by Simon Mole, illustrated by Tom McLaughlin. 
I Tell Myself I’m Awesome by Joshua Seigal. 
Everything in Between by Shagufta K. Iqbal. Small Poems for Big Imaginations by Neal Zetter, illustrated by Will Hughes
Neal Zetter’s short, snappy poems play with words, jokes and everyday moments, all paired with Will Hughes’s lively illustrations. The collection keeps things accessible, fun and readable, with a few interactive prompts that invite children to join in or read together. It aims to make poetry feel friendly rather than formal, giving 7+ year olds an easy way to dip in and enjoy big ideas told in thought-provoking, discussion-worthy bursts. It’s perfect for KS2 teachers who want to model and explore poetry with mixed-ability groups. Highly recommended.
I Am Ray’s Imaginary Friend by Brian Moses, illustrated by Betham Welby
Ray’s imaginary friend narrates this spellbinding illustrated verse story for 7+ year olds, stepping in at the moment Ray learns his parents are thinking about moving house. The friend becomes the confidant and holder of Ray’s fears and worries as he considers running away. But a new home brings new faces, including a refugee mother and child who join the family, and Ray slowly begins to feel at home. As he settles, the companion starts to wonder what his purpose now is. Thought-provoking, heart-warming and beautifully written, I Am Ray’s Imaginary Friend is an outstanding book to share with KS2 children.
Wisdom of the Woods by Rachel Piercey, illustrated by Freya Hartas. 
All I Can Tell You by Alison Malee, illustrated by Chantal Horeis. 
Octopus Moon by Bobbie Pyron. Boing! by James Carter, illustrated by Neal Layton
James Carter and Neal Layton team up for a buzzing collection of 24 poems about all things creepy-crawly – from bees to tardigrades. Packed with riddles, free verse, and fascinating facts, each poem offers a quirky spotlight on a different creature. Layton’s lively illustrations add extra charm, making it a fun and educational natural world experience for 4+ year olds who are curious about bugs. It’s ideal for primary classrooms from EYFS to KS2.
New nonfiction children’s books for spring 2026
What’s Your Dream? The Workbook by Simon Squibb. 
The Positive Doodle Diary by Ali Bado and Finn Prevett. 
The Amazing Generation by Jonathan Haidt and Catherine Price. From AI to WI-FI: How the Internet Works by Craig Steele, illustrated by Terri Po
Craig Steele breaks down how the internet began, how websites run, and what coding actually does, all in a highly accessible and fascinating way that 9+ year-olds will relate to. He also looks at how people use the web to talk, share ideas, and build businesses, with practical tips on staying safe online. Terri Po’s illustrations help explain more complex ideas, turning big digital concepts into clear and discussion-worthy topics for KS2 classes. Highly recommended.
Cities Going Wild by Catherine Barr and Christiane Engel. 
The Legend of Tutankhamun by Sally Jane Morgan and James Weston Lewis. 
The Big Book of Pi by Jean-Baptiste Aubin and Anita Lehmann, illustrated by Joonas Sildre. Formula Fast by Matt Ralphs, illustrated by Dragan Kordic
8–12 year olds get an inside track into the world of Formula One, from how drivers train to what makes a car fast enough to handle the toughest circuits. This engaging hardback powers through famous tracks, standout moments in F1 history, and the inspirational racers who shaped the sport, including a few less well-known figures. Packed with compelling stats, timelines and detailed illustrations, Formula Fast answers the big questions and offers an addictive, unputdownable reference or gift book format for fans of cars and racing to pore over. A fantastic high high-quality nonfiction book. Highly recommended.
The Aztecs by DK. 
The Wonder of Life on Earth by Henry Gee and Raxenne Maniquiz. 
Insectarium: Junior Edition by Emily Carter and Dave Goulson. The Nature of Play by Delfina Aguilar and Clare Aiken, illustrated by Sabrina Arnault
8+ year olds are drawn into an exciting outdoor world through a mix of crafts, games and simple guides that change with the seasons. They can make leaf masks, plant a terrarium or look for solar constellations, all with clear steps and friendly nature facts to support them. Designed for use at home, in the garden or at a nearby park, The Nature of Play gives families and teachers practical ways to spark curiosity and develop a connection to the natural world.
The Zoo by Susan Deming and Jawnie Payne. 
Myths, Gods and Gladiators in Ancient Rome by Stephen Davies and Laurie Avon. 
Young Discoverers: True Tales of Kids Who Made Incredible Discoveries by Stephen Davies, illustrated by Violaine Leroy. Scream If You Want To Go Faster!: The History and Science of Amusement Parks by Peter Morris, illustrated by Roozeboos
The history of amusement parks starts here, beginning with medieval fairs and moving through the inventions that shaped the rides we know today. Readers meet the creators and engineers behind early attractions, learn how physics powers a rollercoaster without an engine, and see how small travelling fairs grew into fantastical worldwide destinations. Roozeboos’s illustrations add lively detail, making the mix of mechanics, safety science and human ingenuity accessible and fun for primary-aged children. A fascinating and fun read.
Roald Dahl How to Be a Writer: Swashboggling Non-Fiction by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake. 
How to Count to Infinity by William Potter and Richard Watson. 
Write Your Own Family History by Jane Bingham and You! Our Prehistoric Planet by Sue Lowell Gallion, illustrated by Lisk Feng
Immerse yourself in a rhyming tour of Earth’s distant past, from the first prehistoric creatures to the age of dinosaurs and the arrival of early mammals! Detailed illustrations and extra fact panels add depth, while interactive features and a beautiful fold-out globe provide hands-on awe and wonder. Our Prehistoric Planet introduces a wide range of ancient animals and shows how the planet has shifted over millions of years, making deep time feel vivid and accessible for 5+ year old readers. Highly recommended.
Shapes of Nature by Ben Hoare. 
Forest by Derek Harvey, illustrated by Federico Epis. 
Adventure Awaits by Ky Furneaux. How to Survive an Apocalypse by Coby Coonradt and Cameron Hardy, illustrated by Victoria Stebleva
This guide mixes real-world advice with a healthy dose of imagination, teaching 8+ year olds how to handle everything from storms and power cuts to full-blown sci-fi catastrophes. It covers first aid, water safety and what to pack in an emergency kit, all explained with a sense of humour and helpful illustrations by Victoria Steblev. The detailed text keeps things practical without losing the fun, making survival skills and basic prepping feel accessible and not at all scary. Bound to be a popular read, it’s the perfect 2026 nonfiction book for KS2 libraries.
Hide and Find in the Frozen Wilds by Scholastic, illustrated by Sandra Dieckmann. 
Everything You Know about Birds Is Wrong! by Nick Crumpton, illustrated by Gavin Scott. 
An Epic History of Failure by Natalie Younger, illustrated by Ella Kasperowicz. How to Speak and Be Heard: A Kids’ Toolkit for Oracy and Confident Speaking by Sam Hutchinson and Vicky Barker
Children will learn the basics of oracy, from speaking with confidence to really listening and choosing the right way to communicate. This book offers practical tips for research, debate and collaborative play, all aimed at helping 7–12-year-olds use their voices well and make a positive impact. Written by Sam Hutchinson and illustrated by Vicky Barker, it serves as a useful toolkit for developing a personal communication style ahead of secondary school.
False Vs. Facts by Dan Marshall. 
Fake News and How to Spot It by Holly Bathie and Alex Frith. 
Artificial Intelligence by Dr Nomisha Kurian, illustrated by Jack Tite. 
America As It Happened by What on Earth!, illustrated by The Washington Post. 
Little Explorers: Let’s Go! Museum by Collaborate Agency, illustrated by Marc Mones. 
Your Expert Guide: Biology for Young Scientists by Dr Helen Watson, Tom Jackson and Ola Szpunar. 
An Interesting Word for Every Day of the Year: Fascinating Words for First Readers by Dr Meridith L. Rowe, illustrated by Monika Forsberg. 
An Anthology of Flowers by Maddie Bailey. 
A Degree in a Book: Physics by Sidney Perkowitz. Spring term 2026 reading resources
- Our free Take It As Read book-finder service – fill in your book requirements, and one of our expert team (a real human being, not AI) will get back to you with bespoke children’s or YA book suggestions.
- Free downloadable reading lists, cards, posters, year group challenges – you name it! Browse through our extension collection of resources to promote reading positivity.
- Reading for Pleasure – read our comprehensive collection of guides and resources for promoting and developing reading for pleasure in your whole school, classrooms and at home.
This page was first published on December 11th, 2025, and last updated on .
Spring 2026 new titles – bulk orders and class sets
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