Children’s books we can’t wait to read in 2026
2026 is here and there are some titles that we just can’t wait to take a peek at! Here is our round-up of the books to add to your reading list ASAP for 2026.
New books for EYFS
The Gruffalo Granny by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler
20 years in the making, this iconic children’s character returns with a brand new story…all about The Gruffalo Granny!
Luna Loves Sport by Joseph Coelho and Fiona Lumbers
A potential future classic? We certainly think so! 2026 will bring us the next instalment of the Luna series, written by Joseph Coelho and beautifully illustrated by Fiona Lumbers.
Rock and Roll by Ruby Ann Thompson
A beautifully simple tale that explores what makes us different and celebrates what brings us together.
Mo’s Stick by Fiona Lumbers
Lumbers’ second appearance on our list, with her very own story about a little mouse who looses his favourite stick. A perfect story that celebrates the power of imagination and creativity.
New books for Key Stage 1
Read All About It! by Benjamin Hall and Martina Motzo
A wonderful book to help young children understand the importance of speaking up for others. Follow this sweet tale of a young hedgehog that is determined to do the right thing.
The Sweater by Larissa Theule
Sometimes a book comes along with a cover so beautiful that we just know its going to be a hit! This is one of those books. A gentle story about community, empathy and helping others, perfect for KS1.
Isla and The Sky by Greg Stobbs
Reading the blurb of this new title, we know its going to be a brilliant story for children who struggle to let their true emotions show. It tells the story of Isla and her paintings, which she uses to reflect the sky’s beautiful colours and moods. But when the sky tries to keep the town happy by staying sunny all the time, Isla’s paintings start to suffer.
The Map of Me by Nicola Davies
From the author of ‘King of the Sky’ and ‘The Day War Came’ is another delightful book that explores the connections we make to where we live, the impact of moving somewhere new and how we navigate change.
The Heart of the Storm by Teresa Heapy
A book that a whole heap of heart that lends itself to brilliant discussions about conflict resolution, helping others and understanding our differences. This would be perfect to read with a friendship group struggling to see eye-to-eye.
The Story Bridge by Richard O’Neill
As one of our favourite authors, we have been very excited to read this new title. It’s all about the power of community and how we have more in common with each other than we think. True to Richard’s heritage this is a wonderful celebration of traveler families and includes fascinating traveler vocabulary.
New books for Key Stage 2
Tree Thing by Piers Torday
We’re willing to bet there is a Piers Torday book in almost every primary classroom in the UK, so we’re certain that this one will be just as big of a success! In this new title, journey into a fantasy world that celebrates bravery, hope and nature.
Nadia Islam, on the Record by Abida Jaigirdar
A story we can’t wait to read, with themes of family, climate change, and standing up for what you believe it. This is sure to be a hit with KS2 classes.
Nova by Chris Bradford
A dyslexia friendly book perfect for higher interest level, lower reading age children. A fast-paced story with heaps of adventure, courage and fantasy!
Runt by Craig Silvey
A unique story of friendship, love and hope that will test the protagonists’ bravery and ingenuity. Can they work together to save their family home?
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