Children’s books for Christmas gifts
Our 20 great children’s books for Christmas – spectacular picture books to surprise, bewitch and survive longer than one holiday season.
Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Grahame Baker-Smith is a British author and illustrator known for his work in children’s literature. He gained significant recognition for his book FArTHER, which won the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal in 2011. This award is given annually by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) for distinguished illustration in a book for children.
Baker-Smith’s career includes a variety of works that showcase his distinctive artistic style. His book Leon and the Place Between, written by Angela McAllister and illustrated by Baker-Smith, was shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal in 2010. This work is noted for its imaginative and detailed illustrations that complement the narrative.
In addition to his award-winning titles, Baker-Smith has authored and illustrated several other books. These include Heart in the Bottle and Wild is the Wind, both of which highlight his ability to blend storytelling with visual artistry. His illustrations often incorporate a mix of traditional and digital techniques, creating a unique aesthetic that appeals to both children and adults.
Grahame Baker-Smith continues to contribute to the field of children’s literature with his innovative and visually captivating works. His contributions have been recognised within the literary community, solidifying his reputation as a talented illustrator and author. His book FArTHER remains a notable achievement in his career, celebrated for its artistic excellence and storytelling.
Our 20 great children’s books for Christmas – spectacular picture books to surprise, bewitch and survive longer than one holiday season.
Suggested reading books for Year 3 children, aged 7-8. A diverse and interesting range of exciting titles aimed at children of all abilities in lower KS2 including books by Roald Dahl, Jacqueline Wilson, Zanib Mian and Tony Bradman.
This suggested reading list offers lots of books choices for 9 and 10 year olds. From fantasy to animal stories and mysteries to science fiction adventure, there’s something for every upper primary child. These books for Year 5 include titles suitable for inspiring both able and reluctant readers.
Weather books for children with titles by David McKee, Debi Gliori, Hannah Pang, Sam Usher, Maggie Li, Grahame Baker-Smith, Dianne Hofmeyr and Carol Thompson, James Carter, Tamsin Mori and more.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Autumn 2024. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels, poetry and non-fiction.
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.
November 2022’s set of book club recommendations features a range of magical and inspiring titles by Ian Eagleton, David Baddiel, Rudi Haig, Lisa Moss & Dr Thomas Bernard, Grahame Baker-Smith, Juliette Maclver & Sarah Davis, Alex Bell and Jessica Souhami.
Season 1, Episode 4 of the School Reading List podcast. With new book post, 30 great books for October 2022, a look at our recent favourite children’s books survey and tips for promoting children’s books to schools.
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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