9 HEARTWARMING CHILDREN’S BOOKS EVERY LITTLE ONE SHOULD READ

The 4th of March is World Book Day, a celebration that feels that much closer to home now that I’m a few days into being ‘Mum!’ I can remember the joy of reading when I was a child, immersing myself in different worlds and letting my imagination run away with me — and Nick loved his books even more than me, so we can’t wait to experience it all through a child's eyes again. In a world governed by screens, where cartoons, TV characters, and the latest movies offer spoon-fed instant gratification and stimulation, books can easily be forgotten. This in turn means that the powerful inner world of storytelling via the imagination and inner creativity can also easily be lost. Our imagination is such a large part of what makes us humans, the ability to magically transport ourselves elsewhere and dream is crucial to development. But not only are books a brilliant pastime, for children they are also an important education tool, expanding vocabulary, teaching them a life skill and letting their all-important imagination flourish.

I loved one of my best friends’ baby showers, where she asked only for the gift of the guests’ favourite baby book to create a library for the incoming baby — all signed and dedicated, a lovely way to start a child’s book journey with books they will treasure forever. And surprisingly there were no overlaps thanks to a group text check-in from guests beforehand!

World Book Day was started as an initiative to promote reading for pleasure with the aim of offering every child and young person the opportunity to have a book of their own — every year they fundraise to expand schools’ libraries, libraries (both at schools and public) being the only access many children from low-income backgrounds have to books. They also promote raising money for Book Aid International, a charity that distributes books to people across the world including in hospitals, refugee camps and prisons.

To celebrate this World Book Day I’m sharing some of my favourite children’s books — from the classics that have been with us for a long time to the modern stories embracing a diverse, changing world. I know the children in your life will enjoy these as much as you do.

The Story of the Little Mole Who Knew it Was None of His Business by Werner Holzwarth

Kicking off with a favourite of mine actually discovered in adulthood that I love to gift is this now 30-year-old classic about a mole trying to identify the poo hat he finds on his head — yes, you read that right!

The Spot series by Eric Hill

Another one for animal lovers, puppy Spot’s cheeky adventures will make every child roar with laughter — I swear it sparked my yearning for a dog, so be careful what you start with this one!!

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison

Little history fiends and future leaders will be fascinated by the stories of these accomplished Black women throughout the ages — and learn that they, too, can dream big.

Elmer the Patchwork Elephant by David McKee

Elephants are cool. Bright-coloured patchwork is cool. What’s not to love in this timeless series about being accepted for who you are?

Malala's Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai

Real-life hero Malala Yousafzai tells the story of the magic pencil she wished she had as a child that would make all her wishes big and small come true.

Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram

Join Little Nutbrown and Big Nutbrown Hare as they attempt to measure just how much love they have in their hearts. Prepare to get soppy whatever your age.

The Same But Different Too by Karl Newson

This clever little book introduces young readers to comparisons and opposites through a joyful band of children and animals who, for all their differences, have many things in common too.

Pink Is for Boys by Robb Pearlman

This super timely tale shows children that everyone can love the colours they want and the activities they want regardless of their gender — as long as it brings them joy.

A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett

For older kids, this classic tale will steal hearts with its story of riches to rags and beautiful friendship. And if princes are your thing, try a collectors’ edition of The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry for something really special for adults and children alike.