Great children’s books that outshine screens
More than just entertainment, reading for pleasure helps children build imagination, empathy, and confidence, all while giving their minds a break from screens. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference, at a time when children’s attention is being pulled in competing directions.
Research from the National Literacy Trust shows that regular reading for enjoyment supports children’s language development, academic attainment, and mental wellbeing. Yet many children are reading less often than ever before. Encouraging a positive reading habit early on is one of the most powerful ways parents can support learning, both in the classroom and beyond.
Our partner, Scholastic, has created a specially curated range of books exclusively for Good Schools Guide readers, chosen to fit easily into family life. There’s something to suit every child and every mood, whether reading independently or together.
Choice matters too. In fact, 84% of kids are more likely to finish a book they’ve picked themselves*, which is why we’ve selected a range of books that children will love. Giving children the freedom to choose helps build confidence and makes reading feel like a pleasure, not a chore.
Scholastic is proud to support the National Year of Reading and is committed to helping families discover the joy of books. Their expert-led recommendations make it easier for parents to find stories that spark interest, nurture confidence, and keep children eagerly turning the pages. World Book Day takes place on Thursday 5 March 2026 and is the perfect moment to celebrate reading!
Find all the books featured below, along with many more brilliant reads, on the Scholastic Shop.
Plus, don’t forget to use offer code GSG26 to get £5 off when you spend £35*.
Scholastic also offers a wide range of home learning resources to support children in their learning.
Books for ages 3+
Goldilocs by Ella McLeod
An empowering twist on a classic tale, this picture book will inspire young girls everywhere. There are just three things that a girl can be. A Witch should brew potions, but Goldilocs would rather make porridge. Plus, an Evil Queen doesn’t build her own throne. As for a Princess waiting for a prince, that just sounds BORING! When Goldilocs tries to be the things she’s told a girl should be, she finds that none of them quite fit. But with help from some unexpected friends, Goldilocs learns that being herself is what matters most. Shop here.
A Very Happy Ramadan by A.M. Dassu
A celebratory story of Ramadan! When Rayhan wakes up and his dad says there’s porridge for breakfast, he’s not pleased. It’s Ramadan, so Rayhan decides to fast. Hooray! But fasting is harder than it looks, and soon Rayhan’s tummy is rumbling really loud. Can Rayhan make it until sunset for iftar? Or will he learn that he doesn’t need to do everything that grown-ups do? A gentle introduction to the idea of fasting, perfect for little ones who aren’t quite ready yet but want to join in. Shop here.
Books for ages 6+
Dog Man 14: Big Jim Believes by Dav Pilkey
Dog Man: Big Jim Believes is a hilarious and action-packed graphic novel from Dav Pilkey, following Dog Man and his friends as they face mischievous Space Cuties From Space while keeping positive and discovering their courage. Packed with humour, heart, and adventure, this story will keep readers laughing and cheering from start to finish. Shop here.
Nora Nightsky by Rebecca Lewis-Oakes
A funny, beautifully illustrated young fiction series about a star come to earth to cause trouble! Ideal for readers aged 6-9, and the perfect next step for Isadora Moon fans or readers of Sibéal Pounder and Laura Ellen Anderson. Nora is a fun, bold, relatable character, and her adorable sparkly hare sidekick, Leap, balances her edge perfectly! Shop here.
Books for ages 9+
The Dad Trap by Ian Eagleton
A boy and a girl who are instant enemies are horrified to find out their dads are dating each other - and are forced to work together to try to split them up! This fun, fizzy, celebratory adventure filled with pranks and antics is a modern, inclusive twist on The Parent Trap for readers of Jacqueline Wilson, Elle McNicoll, and Benjamin Dean. Shop here.
Boy vs Reality by James Fox
A funny, relatable, moving story about online fame vs reality. Meet Ethan Lacey, online vlogging sensation alongside his mum, dad, and big brother Mason. A beautifully told, sensitive, often funny, and very moving story that shines a light on a family grappling with the real-world vs the online one. For fans of Jacqueline Wilson, Jenny Pearson, and Helen Rutter. Shop here.
You can find all of these top picks, as well as plenty more brilliant summer reads, on the Scholastic shop.
*Terms and conditions apply.
Scholastic
Scholastic is the home of reading for pleasure and has been trusted by parents and teachers for more than 90 years. The Good Schools Guide has chosen to partner with Scholastic to bring readers insights and offers across the very best selection of children's books.
