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
Struan Murray is a British author known for his work in children’s literature. He is the author of the Orphans of the Tide series, which has garnered attention for its imaginative storytelling and intricate world-building. The first book in the series, Orphans of the Tide, was published by Puffin Books in February 2020. It received critical acclaim and was awarded the Branford Boase Award in 2021, an accolade recognising outstanding debut novels for children.
Murray’s background includes a PhD in genetics, which he completed at the University of Oxford. His scientific training influences his writing, often incorporating elements of mystery and discovery. Before becoming a full-time author, he worked as a lecturer in biochemistry.
The second book in the series, Shipwreck Island, was released in 2021, continuing the adventures of the characters introduced in the first novel. The third instalment, The Edge of the Ocean, followed in 2022, further expanding the narrative and exploring new themes.
Struan Murray’s work is published by Puffin Books, a division of Penguin Random House, which is known for its extensive catalogue of children’s literature. His books have been translated into multiple languages, reaching a wide audience of young readers around the world.
His contributions to children’s literature continue to be recognised, with his debut novel being shortlisted for several awards, including the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize.
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.
The School Reading List compiles this list of recommended books monthly. This children’s and YA books of the month list highlights new releases and editions of fiction and non-fiction books suitable for children and young adults aged 2-16.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Summer 2025. These reading recommendations include picture books, poetry, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
Storybooks online – here’s our curated collection of video online stories read by authors including Cressida Cowell, Aisha Bushby, Alex Wheatle, Catherine Bruton, David Walliams, Malorie Blackman, Michael Rosen and more.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Spring 2024. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Spring 2021. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Spring 2020. 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