9 Winter Reads for Younger Children
Bev Humphrey
Reading, School Libraries & Digital Media Consultant
www.bevhumphrey.com
Social media – https://linktr.ee/BevHumphrey
I think there’s something rather special about sharing a good book in the run-up to the festive season. Whether it’s a heartwarming festive story, a magical winter adventure, poetry or something guaranteed to raise a giggle, this is a wonderful time to introduce younger readers to books they might not otherwise discover. Here are some new titles for your primary school library, festive storytimes or as gifts for younger readers.
Grandad’s Christmas by Harry Woodgate, Andersen Press
Milly is looking forward to Christmas at Grandad’s, but this year brings a special challenge. When Grandad’s friend Viv loses her home and bookshop to flooding, Milly and Grandad come up with a plan to help her rebuild. A heartwarming story about generosity, friendship and community spirit, it offers a starting point for conversations about helping others.
A Christmas Full of Poetry by Joseph Coelho, Quarto
What better way to bring festive fun into the classroom than with poetry? This illustrated collection contains 25 Christmas poems, one for every day of December, designed to be read aloud and performed. From playful takes on Christmas traditions to quieter, reflective verses, it offers inspiration for daily readings, poetry performances and children’s own seasonal writing.
Frank the Pizza: ‘Twas the Slice Before Christmas by Eoin McLaughlin and Mike Byrne, HarperCollins
Poor Frank is looking forward to a family Christmas, especially as it’s the one time of year when he thinks he is safe from being sliced, diced or pulled apart. With a house full of pizza relatives and a festive adventure in store, this is a deliciously (!) silly story with plenty of scope for giggles. Food related humour, wordplay and an unusual festive hero should appeal to children who enjoy a generous helping of absurdity.
Books According to Dog and Owl by Piers Torday and Tim Smart, Hachette Children’s Group
A book celebrating the magic of reading feels especially appropriate for a school library, and I love this one. Girl, her faithful companion Dog and baby brother explore everything books can offer, from happiness and adventure to empathy and understanding. With Story Owl reminding them of the extraordinary power of stories, this provides an opportunity to talk about reading for pleasure and how books help us understand ourselves and others.
A Cosy Winter Day by Eliza Wheeler, Andersen Press
Welcome to Pinecone Wood, where six animal families are making the most of a snowy winter’s day. From baking and crafting to curling up with a book and gathering for a winter feast, there’s plenty going on. With charming woodland characters and detailed illustrations, this gentle story captures the simple pleasures of the season. Perfect for snuggling up with on a cold winter’s day.
One Christmas Eve by Nick Butterworth, HarperCollins
A new Percy the Park Keeper story is a cause for celebration in my house! Percy and his animal friends are preparing for their Christmas Eve party when they discover that Mole is late. Setting off into the snow to find him, they encounter Father Christmas, who has lost his hat. Nick Butterworth’s storytelling and illustrations make this a strong contender for my favourite new festive picture book this year.
The Snow Queen by Bette Westera and Aida de Jong, Floris Books
Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale gets a fresh retelling. When Arne falls under the spell of the Snow Queen, his best friend Janna sets off on an extraordinary journey to rescue him. Exploring friendship, courage, persistence and kindness, the story offers plenty to discuss. Its short, episodic chapters also lend themselves well to sharing over several reading sessions.
The Polar Night Adventure by Cecilia Blomdahl and Suzie Mason, DK
Take a journey to the Arctic in this atmospheric adventure set in Svalbard. When Grim, a Finnish Lapphund, becomes lost as the polar night descends, he encounters Arctic foxes, reindeer and beluga whales as he tries to find his way home. The striking illustrations and Northern Lights setting bring this unfamiliar environment to life. I was charmed to discover that Grim is a real dog, the beloved pet of the author!
Gross Fact Book by National Geographic Kids
Not every book on the festive reading list needs snow, reindeer or Christmas pudding! For children who love the disgusting, this collection of 300 revolting facts is bound to attract attention. Covering everything from animals and the human body to food, space and history, it’s packed with information children will want to share with their friends. An ideal book for dipping into and engaging curious readers who might not be drawn to traditional stories.
A little festive reading inspiration goes a long way. Which of these titles will you be adding to your library shelves this Christmas?
(If you are interested in hearing about more wonderful books please do take a look at my festive and gift book webinar which will be live on the 29th November with the recording available shortly after https://www.bevhumphrey.com/lit-link-up.html)
