We are all looking for ways to unwind over winter break — including your child! As the holiday bustle reaches a fever pitch, an amazing read could be the perfect gift to help your child recharge. Our team has hand-selected their favorite books for kids K-12. Inspire your household and help fuel imagination in the coming year with these incredible reads.
ELEMENTARY:
- The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
Why we love it: “This book encompasses the magic and wonder of childhood under a blanket of snow. A perfect read to cozy up to in the winter months.”
- The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy
Why we love it: “A fable for all ages that explores life’s universal lessons.”
- Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favilli & Francesca Cavallo
Why we love it: “This book inspires girls with the stories of 100 heroic women from Elizabeth I to Serena Williams.”
- Words to Make a Friend by Donna Jo Napoli
Why we love it: “This book follows the friendship of two young girls, American and Japanese, who don’t let the barriers of language hinder their friendship. The story portrays finding love through acceptance of all humans and kindness.
- Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth by Oliver Jeffers
Why we love it: “Perfect for young adventurers, this book explores the magic of living on this wonderful planet.”
MIDDLE SCHOOL:
- Killers of the Flower Moon: Adapted for Young Readers by David Grann
Why we love it: “This book brings light to important historical information, but in a way that’s appropriate and digestible for kids. It also pairs perfectly with the adult edition of the novel, so you can read along!”
- Hello Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly
Why we love it: “A funny and charming story of unexpected friendships, this book touches on the importance of relationships and self acceptance.”
- El Deafo by Cece Bell
Why we love it: “This is an excellent book to share with kids to discuss the feelings of people who have differing abilities, and how they can view their own differences positively.”
- Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech
Why we love it: “Walk Two Moons is a coming of age story that grapples with grief, love, cultural identity, the adventures of misunderstandings, and the development of familial relationships.”
HIGH SCHOOL:
- We Ride Upon Sticks by Quan Barry
Why we love it: “This book is a whimsical and empowering tale of friendship and breaking the barriers of classic femininity.”
- The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon
Why we love it: “I tore through this book. It is heartbreaking, riveting, and inspires contemplation. I really loved the contrast of a girl who believes in science and logic and a boy who is a dreamer and how their worlds collide.”
- A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Why we love it: “A Man Called Ove takes the reader on a journey of friendships, routines, and learning to find enjoyment in life’s simple pleasures. It’s a humorous tale full of heart about a curmudgeonly old man.”
- Alanna: The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce
Why we love it: “The entire series is wonderful! It’s a YA fantasy series centered around a strong young woman – swords and magic and coming-of-age and a whole bunch of fun!”
- Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
Why we love it: “This dystopian novel written in the 1930s still hits the nail on the head for many issues in science and technology that our society grapples with today. It’s an interesting story and fun read that also manages to be thought-provoking and relevant.”
Whatever books you choose to gift this year, consider supporting local businesses by buying them through these Black-owned bookstores or organizations like Bookshop.org, which connects readers to small bookstores around the country and contributes 75% of their profit margin back to authors, publications, and independent bookstores.
With the right reading choices, your child can become a book lover for life. For more gift suggestions, be sure to check out our holiday gift guide here.
