Children’s Literature News November 2025
Children’s book news for November 2025: prizes from the Carnegies to the Children’s Booker, new reading campaigns, curriculum changes and bestselling titles for young readers across the UK.
Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Mel Darbon is a British author known for her work in young adult fiction. She studied at Bath Spa University, where she completed an MA in Writing for Young People. Darbon’s debut novel, Rosie Loves Jack, was published by Usborne in 2018. The book follows the story of Rosie, a teenager with Down’s syndrome, as she embarks on a journey to find her boyfriend, Jack. Darbon has spoken about her inspiration for the novel, drawing on her experiences with her brother, who had learning disabilities.
Rosie Loves Jack was shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize in 2019. Darbon’s second novel, What Makes You You, was published by Usborne in 2022. Her work explores themes of difference, resilience, and the challenges faced by young people navigating the world.
Mel Darbon’s novel What Makes You You was published by Usborne in 2022.
Children’s book news for November 2025: prizes from the Carnegies to the Children’s Booker, new reading campaigns, curriculum changes and bestselling titles for young readers across the UK.
Season 1, Episode 8 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for March 2023, a look at our poetry for 7-11-year-olds list and how the cost of living crisis is impacting children’s reading.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out this Autumn. 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