1. The Beast Of Buckingham Palace By David Walliams
Why we love it:
- It has one of the most memorable endings of any children’s book ever written.
- The perfect mixture of humour, thrill and adventure.
Set against the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the story follows Prince Albert as he sets out to save the Queen as she is taken away by palace guards. He must leave the safety of the palace and navigate a world he has barely experienced before. If you’re looking for a fun, futuristic adventure that explores themes of bravery and loyalty as the young prince tries to save the Queen. The book also has David Walliams's signature blend of heart and humour that his books have become famous for.
2. How To Train Your Dragon By Cressida Cowell
Why we love it:
- A children’s book that has a nuanced depiction of human relationships and family bonds.
- Engaging and fast-paced as well as witty and perfect for both a younger and older audience.
Cressida Cowell takes us on a whimsical journey into the fantastical world of Berk following Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III as he navigates the challenges of Viking life and attempts to befriend and train dragons rather than succumbing to the traditional Viking way of fighting them. Perfect for World Book Day, this book covers topics of bravery, breaking boundaries and standing up for what you believe in. Its charming characters, hilarious moments, and underlying message of friendship and trust make it an excellent choice for any kid.
3. No Brainer - Diary of A Wimpy Kid By Jeff Kinney
Why we love it:
- The humour in the book appeals to both adults and kids.
- A hilarious depiction of the challenges faced by kids and teachers at school.
No Brainer - Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney is another delightful addition to the iconic series, offering children a humorous glimpse into the world of Greg Heffley. In this instalment, Greg faces a myriad of challenges and absurdities, navigating the unpredictable world of middle school with his signature wit and humour. This book is a perfect choice for World Book Day, as it not only entertains but also reflects on the universal experiences of growing up, navigating friendships, and overcoming everyday hurdles. The humour in this book is not only entertaining but also serves as a clever commentary on the absurdities of school life, making it an excellent choice if your kids are just about to make the transition to secondary school.
4. Winne The Pooh By A. A. Milne
Why we love it:
- A cosy read for both parents and kids.
- A simple story that is profound, wise, innocent and kind - all at once.
Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne is a timeless classic that has enchanted parents and children for generations. The simplicity and innocence of the story and characters make this one of the cosiest books you’ll ever read as you get to go on an adventure with all the characters from A Hundred Acre Wood. It also has some really important messages throughout, with each character having a distinct personality that helps kids understand universal themes like friendship, adventure, compassion and self-discovery.
5. The Creakers By Tom Fletcher
Why we love it:
- Plenty of unexpected twists, laughs, and relatable characters to make it a really enjoyable read.
- Has an important underlying message about working together and accepting differences.
This book effortlessly blends humour, thrills, and valuable life lessons. The story revolves around Lucy Dungston and her town, facing the mysterious disappearance of adults, leaving behind only the creepy Creakers. As Lucy ventures into this eerie world, the story unfolds with suspense and wit, making it an engaging read for kids who are between 8 to 12 years old. This read is perfect for World Book Day, as its appeal spans ages, making it an accessible and entertaining choice.
If you love this post, then check out our favourite books for teaching kids to read.
6. Code Name Bananas By David Walliams
Why we love it:
- It’s fun and funny, as you’d come to expect from a Walliams book.
- A few surprising plot twists with a sprinkling of craziness.
Code Name Bananas by David Walliams is a riveting adventure that whisks children away to the heart of World War II. The story follows young Eric on his mission to rescue his favourite Gorilla, ‘Gertrude’. Set against the backdrop of wartime England, the novel offers a unique blend of historical elements and Walliams' signature humour, creating a tale that captures the imaginations of children. As World Book Day approaches, we love Code Name Bananas for its ability to transport kids to a bygone era, seamlessly weaving historical facts into an imaginative and entertaining storyline. David Walliams' storytelling prowess shines through, creating characters that resonate and a plot that keeps young readers eagerly turning the pages.
7. Double Trouble Society By Carrie Hope Fletcher
Why we love it:
- A slightly spookier read that acts as a stepping stone to explore important themes.
- It has the perfect pace and structure, making it a really quick and enjoyable read.
Carrie Fletcher invites readers into a world of imagination, mischief, and magical charm. The story weaves together whimsy, fantasy, and mischievous fun, creating a perfect stepping stone for children eager to read a slightly spookier book. It uses this slightly darker tone (at least for a children’s book) to explore themes like bravery and the power of love, making it not just a fun read but also a meaningful one.
8. The Gruffalo By Julia Donaldson
Why we love it:
- The perfect read for igniting children's imagination.
- We love it for its story of inspiring bravery and overcoming obstacles.
The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson is a timeless picture book that enchants young readers. The story follows a clever mouse as it ventures through the woods, encountering various predators who see it as a tasty treat. Julia Donaldson's masterful storytelling, coupled with Axel Scheffler's charming illustrations, creates an immersive and delightful reading experience. The book not only sparks children's imaginations but also introduces them to themes of cleverness, courage, and the unexpected power of storytelling. We love The Gruffalo for its ability to captivate young minds and foster a love for reading. The charming rhymes, engaging storyline, and lovable characters make it a firm favourite this World Book Day.
9. The Wind In The Willows By Kenneth Grahame
Why we love it:
- One of the great children’s classics - you can’t go wrong!
- Took us back to our childhood with the feeling of carefree happiness seen throughout.
The Wind in the Willows revolves around the adventures of Mole, Ratty, Badger, and the eccentric Mr. Toad. Each character brings a unique personality to the narrative, blending humour and camaraderie all inside an enchanting world set by a riverbank. The Wind in the Willows is a great choice for this year’s WBD Grahame's masterful storytelling, filled with rich descriptions and memorable characters, creates an immersive experience that they will find themselves returning to year after year.
10. Paddington on Top By Micheal Bond
Why we love it:
- Another enjoyable Paddington read with laughter-inducing moments.
- Great bedtime reading, with delightful little illustrations.
In this charming instalment, Paddington finds himself at the centre of his usual amusing escapades and mishaps. From his endearing mishandling of everyday situations to his unintentional knack for turning the ordinary into extraordinary, Paddington's adventures bring laughter and warmth. This Paddington tale is a great choice for children this World Book Day. Paddington's endearing character, combined with Bond's writing, makes it a delightful read that will keep your little ones smiling and laughing their way through it.
Enjoy!
This World Book Day, you’ll have your child’s reading list sorted with this list of classic and modern children's books. Whether you're looking for books you can read with your little ones, like The Gruffalo, or they’re looking for a book to take them on a thrilling adventure, like, The Double Trouble Society, this guide will have something for children of all ages.
Explore our whole range of children's books here, with even more choices and genres to choose from.
If you’re looking for more World Book Day inspiration, why not take a look at our latest blog post, 10 Simple World Book Day Costume Ideas - perfect if you're strapped for time and need an easy but effective costume for your kids.
