Something all the best children’s authors understand is that a great book trusts young readers with complex ideas, emotional weight and the space to think for themselves.
The 2025 releases had this in spades. For starters there were the big hitters, as in the long-awaited return of Philip Pullman and his epic conclusion of The Book of Dust trilogy, and Katherine Rundell’s follow-up to the clever and wildly imaginative Impossible Creatures. But also, around these touchstones emerged new voices that balanced humour and darkness, imagination and realism, with rare assurance. Here’s our pick of the best…
The Rose Field by Philip Pullman
Young adult
The long-awaited finale to the Book of Dust trilogy brings Lyra’s journeys to an end with all the same showstopping brilliance that first made Pullman a phenomenon 30 years ago with His Dark Materials.
Penguin, £25
The Poisoned King by Katherine Rundell
Ages 8-12
Rundell is an expert at rich, imaginative and deeply felt storytelling. In this sequel to the award-winning fantasy Impossible Creatures, which is to be adapted by Disney, young Christopher is once again swept up in the world of the archipelago, where dragons are now dying.
Bloomsbury Children’s, £14.99
The First Year by Matt Goodfellow
Ages 9+
In this relatable look at one of life’s biggest transitions, Nate starts secondary school full of nerves. The book is told in verse and sweeps its readers up in its honest and funny exploration or fear, friendship and growing pains.
Otter-Barry, £9.99
Under a Fire-Red Sky by Geraldine McCaughrean
Ages 12-15
Unflinching in its portrayal of conflict and history, this terrific novel follows four kids who first dodge evacuation during the Blitz, then return to the chaos of London. It is a book about bravery and loyalty and what it takes to survive, keeping readers hooked with its immersive storytelling.
Usborne, £8.99
My Soul a Shining Tree by Jamila Gavin
Ages 9-12
In threading together several narratives this 150-page epic transports its readers to World War One where our characters’ lives converge beneath a walnut tree. Told with both grit and grace, it wears its heavy themes lightly and reminds us why Gavin is one of our country’s finest writers of children’s fiction.
Farshore, £7.99
The Lone Husky by Hannah Gold
Ages 8-12
Another thrilling read from the author of the award-winning The Last Bear, Gold’s latest follows April as she goes sledding across the Arctic with a team of dogs as a contestant in the Polar Race. A gripping book which sneaks in themes of courage, connection and nature.
HarperCollins, £14.99
What Happens Online by Nathanael Lessore
Ages 11+
When a tween becomes internet-famous under an online persona, his world is turned upside down. This heartfelt book explores identity, popularity and discrepancy between life on and offline – while also managing to be one of the funniest books of the year.
Hot Key Books, £8.99
The Notwitches by Gary Panton
Ages 7-11
Some books make reading an irresistible joy and The Notwitches is one of them. Following Melanda as she escapes her awful aunts and dives into a world of young witches, daft gnomes and sleepy monsters, it is brimming with surreal silliness and is beautifully illustrated by Dotty Sutton.
Chicken House, £7.99
Deep Dark by Zohra Nabi
Ages 9+
In 1830s London, children are vanishing and monsters are lurking in the sewers. Meanwhile, a debt-ridden ballad seller and a pick-pocketing street musician uncover a sinister plot. This book is Dickensian in setting and atmosphere but also has just the right amount of fun in the process.
Simon & Schuster, £7.99
Role Model by Elle McNicoll
Ages 8-12
When Aeriel’s dad becomes the new prime minister, everyone looks to her to be a role model for autistic children – but she would much rather be herself. McNicoll’s warm and engaging book is a great lesson in the power of being authentic.
Knights Of, £7.99
Ride North by Maria De Jong
Ages 10-12
12-year-old Folly hasn’t long lost her mum when her dad decides he wants to start a new life with his new girlfriend. So she runs away with her horse, Tooth, who she is certain might be the only being in the world who understands her. A sweet tale of hope and companionship.
Anderson Press, £7.99
Dracula & Daughters by Emma Carroll
Ages 8-12
Buckle up for this quirky, feminist adventure in which Mina, Bella and Buffy find themselves guarding a family secret: in a world where there has been two decades of vampire-free society, they are Dracula’s descendants. Deliciously readable and full of Gothic charm.
Faber, £7.99
Roar by Manjeet Mann
Young adult
In this fierce story of justice and resistance, teenager Rizu lives a sheltered middle-class life in Delhi – until a kiss with the wrong boy sets off a terrifying chain of events. Accused of being a witch, she flees to join a gang of women who fight back.
Penguin, £9.99
Runaways by EL Norry
Ages 9-14
In London’s Waterloo Station, Jamie and July meet by chance and bond over the fact they are both desperate to escape their lives. Their compelling runaway journey becomes a testament to friendship and second chances.
Bloomsbury, £7.99
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