Whether you have a little bookworm or a reluctant reader, Ireland Reads is a fantastic initiative – a national day to celebrate reading, what could be better? Taking place on February 25th, you can pledge to read as much or as little as you like. If you’re not sure where to start, or on the hunt for some new books to read, we’ve rounded up some of our favourites below.
Little ones will love the joyful tales from Eric Carle and the best bedtime stories chosen by parents, while older readers will enjoy books full of magic, mystery, giants, and laugh-out-loud hilarity. If your child enjoys non-fiction, we’ve got great picks to learn more about nature, dinosaurs, space and even magic tricks!
Take the pledge at Ireland Reads and see how many minutes people all over Ireland will be reading for on February 25th. One minute, 10 minutes, an hour, or more – it doesn’t matter how long you read for or what you read! Why? Because taking some time for yourself to relax and do the things you enjoy (like reading) is important to help look after your mental wellbeing.
Ireland Reads is a public libraries initiative, in partnership with Healthy Ireland, publishers, booksellers, authors and others.
Ireland Reads: Book Suggestions for Kids
Irish Books
Discover the folklore, legend, magic and mystery that Ireland is famous for with these engaging and exciting Irish books for kids. From facts and fairies to first Irish words, there is certainly something for everyone with this round up of new releases and classic tales.
Whether you are Irish, living in Ireland, planning a visit, or just have an interest in the Emerald Isle, these Irish-themed books are a brilliant way to learn more about Irish culture, history, traditions and folklore.
Books for Harry Potter Fans
Has your child finished reading the Harry Potter series? It’s always a bit of a sad moment for any reader besotted with a series to find they’ve reached the end. If your child has been enjoying J.K. Rowling’s magical and mysterious series, they will love these 20+ books like Harry Potter that we’ve picked out. The good thing is most of these are in series too so there should be plenty to keep them going!
Hilarious Stories and Tales
Does your child love reading a funny book? Do they enjoy laughing when they read with you or themselves?
These humorous books for kids are guaranteed to make your child laugh out loud! With plenty of hilarious characters and riveting tales, sometimes a good giggle is just what’s needed.
Eric Carle Books
We all know – and love – Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar, which is one of the bestselling and most read children’s books of all time. This colourful, rhythmic, interactive story is just one of Eric Carle’s wonderful creations. You can transform story time with 12 more Eric Carle books you’ll enjoy reading together.
Stories with Giants
Tales of giants have always been popular with kids of all ages, from the classic Jack and the Beanstalk to Roald Dahl’s The BFG. There is something so magical and downright fun about stories with giants – and children just love the excitement that comes with these tall tales!
We’ve picked these fantastic stories with giants for kids that will send you on a real adventure! Our round up of stories come from renowned authors like Roald Dahl, Michael Morpurgo and Oscar Wilde, as well as modern favourites like Kes Gray and Julia Donaldson.
Books for Anxious Kids
When your child is dealing with anxiety, worries or fears, having a way to open conversation in an age-appropriate way can be a real bonus. Sitting down together with a book can provide that chance, and you’d be amazed at how even the simplest story can hit the mark.
These books for anxious kids range from picture books for younger children, through to workbooks that can be done independently by older children.
Books for David Walliams’ Fans
If your child is a big David Walliams fan, you’re sure to be on the hunt for other authors whose books are as entertaining. We’ve chosen 30 amazing books for kids who love David Walliams that offer the same fun, adventure-filled excitement and are bound to be a hit!
These books offer many similarities to those from David Walliams – some are laugh out loud funny, some deal with a ‘big’ topic not normally found in children’s books, while even more take a reader on a wild adventure.
Dinosaur Books
Calling all dino fans! Do you want to know more about the T-Rex, or become a stegosaurus expert? Well, look no further than our pick of the best dinosaur books to learn about all your favourite prehistoric creatures.
From board books for babies to chapter books for independent readers, or how about encyclopaedias to learn even more dino facts – our dinosaur books list has something for everyone.
Books by Holly Webb
Bestselling author Holly Webb has written more than 100 great books for children. Kittens, puppies and other adorable animals are the main focus of many Holly Webb books, however you’ll also find plenty of fun in her series about princesses, magic and groups of friends.
Books About the Moon
The moon is fascinating and a source of wonder for both adults and kids. Does your child ever wonder about the man in the moon, or delight in being the first to spot the moon as the sun is setting? If so, they will love these wonderful moon-themed books that celebrate the moon in all its glory.
Neil Gaiman Books
Bestselling author Neil Gaiman has written numerous books for kids, teens and adults – many of which have skyrocketed in popularity and even hit the big screen as Hollywood blockbusters.
Gaiman’s first book for children, The Day I Swapped My Dad For Two Goldfish, was published in May 1997. Since then he has written numerous popular children’s books, including Coraline, which was a New York Times and international bestseller and an enormous critical success later turned into a hit animated movie, and the magical story Stardust, which was similarly turned into an all-star movie.
These weird and wonderful Neil Gaiman books are bound to be a success with your kids as they are creative beyond belief!
Best Bedtime Stories – Recommended by Parents
Reading your child a bedtime story is one of life’s great pleasures. You get to cuddle in, share the story and have some bonding time just before sleepy time. We asked Mykidstime parents to share their favourites, and here are their picks for the best bedtime stories for kids!
Nature Books for Kids
Does your child love to explore, dig in the dirt or ask questions about everything from why the leaves change colour to how bees make honey? Investigate the answers to these and hundreds of other questions with exciting (and educational) books to help your child learn about nature.
Learn about nature, wildlife and the environment – it’s not only fascinating, but important for any budding scientists and conservationists. We’ve chosen 35 of the best that will suit all ages, from toddlers to teens!
Magic Books for Kids
Is your child looking to perfect some wondrous tricks to awe and amaze family and friends? From their very first card trick, kids are often hooked on magic – and it’s a great way to build their confidence, memory and language skills.
Take a look below at magic books suited to even the youngest child, giving them an opportunity to learn card and coin tricks, illusions, sleight of hand, and lots more.