Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
A. M. Dassu, raised in England, developed a passion for writing and art from an early age. Despite doubting her ability to publish a book, she remained creative, establishing a club and assisting in her school library. As a teenager, her love for English literature grew, leading to her involvement in school productions.
However, her academic path diverged from writing, and she pursued management roles after studying Economics. Her passion for writing resurfaced after becoming a parent in 2006, sparking her journey into blogging and contributing to reputable platforms like The Huffington Post and the Times Education Supplement. A. M. Dassu’s literary career flourished, with her debut novel, “Boy, Everywhere,” earning critical acclaim and numerous awards. Living in the Midlands, she now dedicates her mornings to writing and continues to make her mark in the literary world, championing individuality and philanthropy.
Books for year 7 – our reading recommendation for 11 year olds at the start of secondary school in Year 7. There’s a selection of choices including classics, well-known authors, new titles, cult fiction and short stories. This recommended Year 7 reading list is aimed at all ability ranges.
The School Reading List compiles this list of recommended books monthly. This children’s and YA books of the month list highlights new releases and editions of fiction and non-fiction books suitable for children and young adults aged 2-16.
Wild Journey is a beautifully illustrated set of five stories linking children across continents through courage, kindness, and a murmuration that reminds us of the families we’re born into and those we find.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Autumn 2025. These reading recommendations include picture books, poetry, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
Edgy stories for 11-14 year olds with titles by Kwame Alexander, Malorie Blackman, Hilary McKay, Jason Rohan, Ele Fountain, Christopher Edge, Catherine Bruton, Derek Landy, Simon James Green, Robert Muchamore, Anne Cassidy & more.
Summer reading challenge – A good reading challenge will not only promote reading and encourage reading for pleasure, but it will encourage a reading culture to spread like a virus throughout your school.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Summer 2022. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
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Our latest reading national curriculum year group recommended reading lists:
Picture books for the under 5s | Books for Reception | Books for Year 1 | Books for Year 2 | Books for Year 3 | Books for Year 4 | Books for Year 5 | Books for Year 6 | Books for Year 7 | Books for Year 8 | Books for Year 9 | Books for Year 10 | Books for Year 11
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