Children’s Literature News August 2025
Children’s book news for August 2025: classroom reading picks, prize winners, nature writing, humour awards, YA headlines, festivals, and policy moves shaping libraries and school resources.
Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Polly Dunbar is a British author and illustrator known for her work in children’s literature. She studied illustration at Brighton Art School. Dunbar has both written and illustrated a range of picture books, and her illustrations are recognised for their distinctive style and gentle humour.
Among her notable works is Penguin, which was published by Walker Books in 2007. The book has received critical attention and has been adapted for the stage. Dunbar is also the creator of the Tilly and Friends series, which includes titles such as Pretty Pru, Doodle Bites, and Happy Hector. The Tilly and Friends books were later adapted into a television series for CBeebies.
In addition to her own writing, Dunbar has illustrated books for other authors, including Shoe Baby by Joyce Dunbar and Pat-a-Cake Baby by Joyce Dunbar, both published by Walker Books. Her work has been recognised with several awards and nominations. Penguin won the Booktrust Early Years Award in 2007.
Children’s book news for August 2025: classroom reading picks, prize winners, nature writing, humour awards, YA headlines, festivals, and policy moves shaping libraries and school resources.
Books for Year 1 – here’s our selection to challenge and interest children aged 5-6 in UK primary schools. Handpicked recommendations from teachers and librarians, with titles by Michael Rosen, Julia Donaldson, Jon Klassen, Judith Kerr, Satoshi Kitamura, and more.
Merry Whatmas? is a lovely book about what Christmas should be about seen through the eyes of Hedgehog, Tortoise, and their friends. Each page covers a different friend and their favourite part of the preparations for the big day.
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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