Best Books for Kids

There needs to be a lot more sci-fi for kids, especially if it's got a good dose of horror, argues Dan Smith, author of the sci-fi mystery series Crooked Oak. He recommends five works of science fiction for 8 to 12 year olds, from books written more than half a century ago to more recent jewels.

Even as kids become old enough to read books without pictures, reading a graphic novel is a great way to relax or get a grasp of a complex subject (like quantum physics). 11 year old Harald, an avid reader, recommends some of the best ones he's read that other kids his age might also enjoy.

With so many good audiobooks to choose from, it's helpful to have a team dedicated to picking out the best ones. In the final instalment of our series of best audiobooks of 2024, we present the best ones for kids, as chosen by the editors of AudioFile magazine.

While with some series the books don't have to be read chronologically, it's important to read J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter books in order. The seven books in the series evolve from the shorter, earlier books about a young magician to more complex, darker stories and much longer books as Harry and his friends grow older. The first book, The Philosopher's Stone (aka The Sorcerer's Stone in the United States), was published in 1997 as a relatively straightforward boarding school novel, but for wizards. By the time the final book in the series, The Deathly Hallows, was published a decade later, the plotlines had become complicated, the books long, and the whole saga beautifully tied together for a very satisfying finale.

A long road trip is the perfect opportunity for children and adults to listen to a good story together. Children's audiobook expert Emily Connelly, Associate Editor at AudioFile magazine, brings you her selection of the best audiobooks for a family road trip. See also: Road Trip Novels

An understanding of the human body can help children nurture both physical and mental health, as well as build knowledge and vocabulary about this fascinating topic. Paediatrician Sonia Joseph talks us through her pick of five books about the human body for kids, with something for every age from baby board books to middle grade non-fiction.

Chess is one of the most enduringly popular games in the world. It transcends language barriers and offers players a hobby for life. Chess teacher and master Andrew Green recommends chess books for beginners of all ages to learn the game.

Barbara Band, librarian and former President of the UK’s Library and Information Association, explains why reading aloud for babies is not only a great bonding experience but also an important part of early childhood development. She shares some tips on reading with babies and introduces her top baby book recommendations.

Whether you have a long journey with kids coming up or simply enjoy listening to stories together on the sofa, award-winning audiobooks for kids are a good bet for a quality listening experience.

There are umpteen science textbooks out there to help kids with their science homework. But what about the broader picture, the creativity, the advantages of becoming a scientifically literate individual? Alom Shaha, teacher, filmmaker and science communicator, recommends five great novels to inspire your kids with the wonder of science.