Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Dan Smith is a British author known for his work in children’s and young adult fiction. He has written several novels that span various genres, including adventure, historical fiction, and thrillers. Smith’s writing often explores themes of survival and resilience.
His debut novel, Dry Season, was published in 2010 and marked the beginning of his career in adult fiction. However, he later transitioned to writing for younger audiences. One of his notable works for children is My Friend the Enemy, published in 2013, which is set during World War II and follows the story of a young boy who discovers a German fighter pilot in the woods.
Smith’s other works include Big Game (2014), which was adapted into a film starring Samuel L. Jackson, and Boy X (2016), a fast-paced thriller about a boy who wakes up in a mysterious laboratory. His novel Below Zero (2018) is another example of his ability to craft gripping narratives for young readers.
In addition to his novels, Dan Smith has been recognised for his contributions to children’s literature. His books have been shortlisted for several awards, including the Branford Boase Award and the Northern Writers’ Award.
This suggested reading list offers lots of book choices for children aged 9 and 10. From fantasy and animal stories to mysteries and science fiction adventures, there’s something for every upper primary child. These books for Year 5 include titles suitable for inspiring both able and reluctant readers.
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.
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. Updated for 2026.
Kindness, empathy and love children’s books for students aged 3-12+ including titles by Laura Dockrill, Malcolm Duffy, Dan Smith, Alice Oseman, Jess McGeachin, Michael Rosen, Catherine Rayner, Satoshi Kitamura, Suma Subramaniam, Benjamin Dean, R J Palacio & more.
Children’s and teen books about World War 2 with fiction, nonfiction, true stories, picture books, graphic novels, poetry and diaries, with titles by Michael Rosen, Bali Rai, Tom Palmer, Sufiya Ahmed, Michael Morpurgo, Ruta Sepetys and Anne Frank.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Spring 2025. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
Season 1, Episode 11 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for June 2023, adventure book picks and transitioning from picture books to short chapter books.
The Wall Between Us is a beautiful book that invites the reader to walk in the shoes of its characters. It prompts them to consider how they might respond in the same situation and raises the question of whether a person’s character can always be judged by their actions.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Summer 2023. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Spring 2022. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
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