Engaging Audio Books Ideal for Summer Enjoyment!
Top Recommended Read-Aloud Books for Children in 2025
In the realm of children's literature, 2025 offers a treasure trove of engaging, humorous, and educational books that captivate young minds. This year's selections span both picture books and chapter books, catering to a wide range of ages and interests.
Picture Books (Ideal for Preschool to Early Elementary)
- Every Monday Mabel by Jashar Awan Mabel's anticipation for her favourite thing is the heart of this delightful book, beautifully illustrated and filled with suspense. It's perfect for preschool read-alouds.
- Kittybunkport by Scott Rothman, illustrated by Zachariah OHora A humorous tale about two scaredy cats on a lighthouse adventure, this book is known for its witty dialogue and playful illustrations that delight children.
- Little Owl’s Fog by Divya Srinivasan This empowering, slightly spooky tale encourages children to explore beyond their comfort zones, emphasising friendship and bravery.
- What’s Going On Inside Your Head? by Molly Potter and Sarah Jennings A nonfiction picture book that introduces young readers to mindfulness, self-image, and coping with life’s challenges, making it useful for starting important family conversations.
- The Bakery Dragon by Devin Elle Kurtz Shortlisted for the 2025 BN Children's & YA Book Awards, this charming story features a little dragon who is overlooked but adorable, filled with whimsy and important messages.
Chapter Books (Recommended for Ages 6 to 8)
- El Perro que Bailó en la Luna by John Boyne A rhyming story with vibrant illustrations featuring Ignacio and his dog Max on a galactic adventure to save Earth, inspiring dreaming and imagination.
- La Calavera by Jon Klassen A darker, mysterious story about friendship between a girl and a skull, blending tenderness and suspense, it's captivating for young readers ready for a slightly more challenging narrative.
These selections are noteworthy for their quality storytelling, engaging illustrations, and suitability for read-aloud sessions that foster imagination, laughter, and learning. They cover a spectrum of themes including friendship, humor, bravery, and emotional understanding, making them excellent choices for parents, teachers, or caregivers seeking top contemporary children’s books.
Additional recommendations include the Gone Away Lake series, The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate series, The Miracles of Maple Hill, and the Betsy-Tacy Series. For those familiar with Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House on the Prairie series, you might also enjoy Roger MacBride's Rose Years books, a sequel to her works. Lastly, don't forget to introduce your little ones to the adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, as well as the whimsical world of Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle. Happy reading!
In the broader realms of literature, 2025 caters not only to children's books but also to those interested in lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, relationships, pets, travel, and cars. For instance, a magazine dedicated to interior design could provide tips on transforming homes into cozy gardens. Fashion enthusiasts might find inspiration in a blog showcasing unique pet accessories that double as stylish fashion statements. Foodies could indulge in a cookbook exploring gourmet dishes tailored for various pets. A travel guide book could offer suggestions for pet-friendly destinations worldwide. Lastly, for car aficionados, a magazine could feature the latest EV models showcasing their unique designs and environmentally friendly features. These publications cater to diverse interests, fostering inspiration, knowledge, and enjoyable experiences.
