Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Nikesh Shukla is a British author and editor known for his work in children’s and young adult literature, as well as adult fiction and non-fiction. He has written several books for young readers, including the YA novels Run, Riot and The Boxer, both published by Hachette Children’s Group. His writing often explores themes of identity, community, and social justice.
Shukla is also recognised for his editorial work. He edited the essay collection The Good Immigrant, which features contributions from a range of writers discussing race and immigration in the UK. This collection was published by Unbound in 2016.
In addition to his books for young people, Shukla has written novels for adults and contributed to various anthologies. He has been involved in mentoring and supporting emerging writers, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
His YA novel The Boxer was published by Hachette Children’s Group in 2019.
Children’s books to combat hatred including titles by Michael Rosen, Malorie Blackman, Benjamin Zephaniah, Angie Thomas, Jason Reynolds, David Olusoga, R. J. Palacio, Lois Lowry, Elle McNicoll, and Nicola Davies.
British Black history books for children and teens including titles by Floella Benjamin, David Olusoga, Atinuke, Benjamin Zephaniah, Alison Hammond, Jeffrey Boakye, Catherine Johnson, Michaela Morgan, David Lammy and Troy Deeney.
Combat sports books for children and teens with titles by María Isabel Sánchez Vegara, James Patterson, Kwame Alexander, Jewell Parker Rhodes, Markus Zusak, Fonda Lee, Robin Ha, Nicola Adams, Ronda Rousey, and C. S. Pacat.
Crime fiction for teens including titles by Tia Fisher, Robert Muchamore, Ashley Hickson-Lovence, Maureen Johnson, Ben Oliver, Karen M. McManus, Cynthia Murphy and Holly Jackson.
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