Engaging reads for your little ones during the break: Mysteries, a brilliant doctor, robots, and more captivating titles to entertain your children this half term.
Research reveals a concerning decline in children's enjoyment of reading, with levels plummeting to their lowest in nearly two decades. Despite studies by the National Literacy Trust indicating that reading for pleasure enhances empathy, self-confidence, and overall wellbeing, the trend persists.
Children's author Adam Kay, whose upcoming book, "Simon Gets Sneezed," is slated for release in July, spoke to The Sun about the importance of fostering a love for reading. Kay emphasized that not only does a passion for books offer lifetime access to a world of stories and adventure, but it also promotes the development of children's brains, from speech and language to memory and attention.
In light of this, books editor Veronica Lorraine presents ten captivating new children's books perfect for the upcoming half term break.
- Puppy's Wobbly Bottom by Kit Frost: Engage in a vibrant adventure alongside Puppy and friends as they perform the Wobbly Bottom dance in this charming rhyming book for preschoolers. (Farshore, £6.99)
- Oh No, Flo! by Catherine Cawthorne: Experience a heartwarming tale about loyalty and teamwork as Farmer's dependable sheepdog, Flo, saves the day when the farmer falls ill. (Templar books, £7.99)
- Sleep Tight Disgusting Blob by Huw Aaron: Delight in this unique, rhyming bedtime story about a particularly stubborn blob and their reluctance to go to sleep. (Puffin, £7.99)
- Dadbot by Jack Noel: This humorous graphic novel series abounds with robots, puns, and the occasional dastardly dad-napping, catering perfectly to fans of Bunny Vs Monkey and reluctant readers. (Piccadilly Press, £8.99)
- Beano Betty And The Yeti by Hugh Raine: Follow Betty and her new yeti roommate as they navigate the trials and tribulations of friendship in this delightful story. (Farshore, £9.99)
- Dexter Procter, The 10-Year-Old Doctor, by Adam Kay: Witness the extraordinary tale of a prodigious 10-year-old who starts working as a paediatrician at a hospital. (Puffin, £7.99)
- Words Can Fly by Donna Ashworth: Explore this compassionate, poetic collection that journeys through childhood with wisdom and warmth. (Templar Books, £16.99)
- Serial Chillers: The Witch In The Woods by Jennifer Killick: Embark on an eerie adventure in Hazard, a town where the ordinary and the extraordinary coexist, as four students uncover a hidden mystery. (Farshore, £7.99)
- Heir Of Storms by Lauryn Hamilton Murray: Immerse yourself in the thrilling tale of Blaze, a powerful fire-wielder, as she navigates her newfound abilities and battles for her kingdom's future. (Penguin, £9.99)
- Rival Darling by Alexandra Moody: Follow Violet on her journey to mend a broken heart and discover new love as she avoids dating jocks and encounters the captain of the Ransom Devils. (Electric Monkey, £9.99)
Encourage children to explore new books during the upcoming half term break, as books editor Veronica Lorraine has curated a list of ten captivating titles that cater to various interests. For instance, Puppy's Wobbly Bottom by Kit Frost is a charming rhyming book for preschoolers, while Dexter Procter, The 10-Year-Old Doctor, by Adam Kay tells the story of a prodigious young boy who becomes a paediatrician. Furthermore, the list includes engaging home-and-garden books, heartwarming lifestyle stories, and entertaining graphic novels that will appeal to a wide range of readers.