Children’s Literature News June 2025
Children’s book news for June 2025: award winners, new releases, book sales trends, and key updates for UK teachers and parents. Find highlights from poetry and fiction to inclusive books and literacy campaigns.
Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Akwaeke Emezi is a Nigerian-Tamil author known for their work in both adult and young adult fiction. Emezi’s debut novel, Freshwater, was published in 2018 and received critical acclaim, earning a nomination for the Women’s Prize for Fiction. The novel explores themes of identity and spirituality, drawing from Emezi’s own experiences and Igbo heritage.
In 2019, Emezi published their first young adult novel, Pet, which was a finalist for the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature. Pet is set in a world where evil is said to have been eradicated, and it follows a young girl named Jam who discovers a creature that challenges this belief.
Emezi’s work often addresses themes of identity, gender, and belonging. They have been recognized for their contributions to literature with several awards and honors. In 2021, Emezi released Dear Senthuran: A Black Spirit Memoir, which provides a personal insight into their life and creative journey.
In addition to their novels, Emezi has written essays and short stories that have appeared in various publications. Their work continues to receive attention for its unique narrative style and exploration of complex themes.
Akwaeke Emezi’s literary achievements include being named a National Book Foundation “5 Under 35” honoree in 2018, highlighting their impact on contemporary literature.
Children’s book news for June 2025: award winners, new releases, book sales trends, and key updates for UK teachers and parents. Find highlights from poetry and fiction to inclusive books and literacy campaigns.
Art topic books for 4-16-year-olds – our recommendations. This list includes how to art guides and real-life stories about children and adults inspired by art. Writers include Julia Donaldson, Allan Ahlberg, Andrea Beaty, Kari Herbert, David Hockney, Akwaeke Emezi and Tracy Chevalier.
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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