Children’s Literature News December 2025
Children’s book news for December 2025: award longlists and winners, a library card proposal, Book Nooks, bookshop plans, an MPs inquiry, and exhibitions in Chelmsford and Bedford.
Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Helen Harvey is a children’s author whose fiction is aimed at middle-grade readers. She completed the MA in Writing for Young People at Bath Spa University with Distinction, and her work was recognised with the United Agents Prize during the course. She is represented by Bell Lomax Moreton.
Harvey’s debut novel, Emmy Levels Up, is published by Oxford University Press. The story follows a confident online gamer who faces bullying at school and begins to rebuild her real-world friendships and self-belief. Education and books-trade listings position the novel for readers aged 9+ and highlight themes of gaming culture, resilience and kindness.
Alongside writing, Harvey has contributed to reading communities through school and library activities and features for children’s-book platforms.
Emmy Levels Up was published by Oxford University Press in 2021.
Children’s book news for December 2025: award longlists and winners, a library card proposal, Book Nooks, bookshop plans, an MPs inquiry, and exhibitions in Chelmsford and Bedford.
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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