5 fantastic books that could encourage your children or grandchild to read for fun

With Christmas just around the corner, you might be busy tying up those last-minute gifts for the family.

If you’re struggling to decide what to buy your children and grandchildren, a book could be a fantastic present that provides both entertainment and educational value.

What’s more, by gifting a book this festive season, you might help to instil a love of reading in the younger members of your family.

Unfortunately, research by the National Literacy Trust has revealed that just 34.6% of children aged 8 to 18 enjoy reading in their free time in 2024.

So, if you’re keen to encourage your children or grandchildren to read for fun, here are five fantastic books to inspire a passion for fiction.

1. Letters from the North Pole by Annie Atkins – suitable for 3- to 6-year-olds

This beautifully illustrated book would make a wonderful gift to unwrap over the festive period.

With five letters from Santa to pull out and open, this festive tale is a joyously interactive and fun read.

Each letter reveals the hidden world of the north pole, from how reindeer can sleep standing up to which Christmas snacks Santa wishes he never had to eat again!

It’s the perfect book to curl up with and read aloud together.

2. Dino Dadby Andy Day – suitable for 4- to 7-year-olds

Dino Dad is the first in a series of four adventure stories by the beloved children’s TV star, Andy Day.

By day, six-and-a-little-bit-year-old Ruby’s dad is a dinosaur expert at a local museum.

But he and Ruby are also both “POOPAs” – Protectors Of Our Prehistoric Allies.

This means that when Ruby and her dad touch his special, magic ammonite shell, they travel to a magical island of dinosaurs, who go about their lives just like humans do – shopping, chatting, eating, and having fun.

What’s more, Ruby and her dad turn into dinosaurs when they visit this incredible place.

Dino Dad is a funny, easy-to-read story, paired with engaging drawings by the multi-award-winning illustrator, Steve Lenton. It’s a top choice for any adventure-loving young person.

3. Charlotte’s Webby E.B White – suitable for ages 8 and up

This much-loved book tells the charming story of a runt pig named Wilbur.

A little girl named Fern, a farmer’s daughter, falls in love with Wilbur when he is born and asks to keep him as a pet.

When Wilbur is sold for slaughter, he befriends a spider called Charlotte who weaves a plan to save his life.

Charlotte’s Web is a time-honoured classic that has been enjoyed by generation after generation. It’s a beautiful tale of friendship, courage, and loyalty.

It also explores more mature themes, such as mortality and self-sacrifice. So, it might be a good book for parents or grandparents to read with their children.

4. When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller – suitable for 8- to 12-year-olds

Winner of the 2021 Newbery Medal, When You Trap a Tiger tells the uplifting story of a Korean-American girl named Lily who can see and speak to a magical tiger from her grandmother’s stories.

The tiger makes Lily an offer. If she returns something her poorly grandmother stole from the tigers many years ago, he will ensure the older woman’s good health.

Lily must decide whether to trust the tiger and make the deal.

Keller uses a mix of fantasy and folklore to weave a unique tale about family, relationships, loss, and courage.

5. Just in Caseby Meg Rosoff – suitable for 12- to 16-year-olds

Just in Case is a critically acclaimed, best-selling coming-of-age story. It won the 2007 Carnegie Medal, which is one of the UK’s most prestigious literary awards for children’s books.

The darkly comic storyline centres around 15-year-old David Case. After saving his younger brother’s life, David begins to see danger everywhere and believes that Fate is after him.

In a bid to take control of his destiny, David changes his name, his appearance, and his friends.

Rosoff takes the reader on an off-beat and surreal journey that explores key themes such as friendship, love, and tragedy.

If you have young adults in your family, this will make an original and thought-provoking gift.

Get in touch

While you’re thinking about what to gift your children and grandchildren this year, it could be a good time to start planning for their financial future. We can help.

So, if you’re looking for a financial planner in Bristol, please get in touch either by email at helpme@aspirellp.co.uk or by calling 0117 930 3510.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.