Children and teens roundup – the best new picture books and novels

'The best new picture books and novels for kids'

Delightful festive tales from around the world have arrived to warm your heart this Christmas season. Little Tiger brings us 'The Street Where Santa Lives' by Harriet Howe and Julia Christians, a charming story about an elderly man who lives on a busy street, only noticed by his little neighbour, who thinks he's the real Santa Claus. As other neighbours rally round to help him after he falls ill, will he be back in time for Christmas? The sweet, funny book features beautiful illustrations and is a celebration of community.

Twenty-five years after their first appearance, Lauren Child brings us 'I Am Wishing Every Minute for Christmas', an engaging new Charlie and Lola picture book that's full of excited impatience as the siblings get everything ready for Christmas. Another beautifully illustrated book from Little Tiger, this one features intricate lift-the-flap details and endearing characters.

Meanwhile, Thames & Hudson has published 'The House With The Little Red Door' by Grace Easton, a beautiful, touching picture book that tells the story of Olivia's lonely house and Mouse's loneliness in his oak tree. When Mouse's tree falls, Olivia does her best to find him a new home – but none are quite right until she welcomes him into her own. This gorgeous book features intricate lift-the-flap details and endearing characters.

Another beautiful picture book from Thames & Hudson is 'Sketch' by Jacques Goldstyn, translated by Helen Mixter. Scribbly, lively Sketch has stood out since he was born, a creative firecracker who's different from his orderly peers. Despite support from his parents and art teacher, he feels isolated, especially at high school – but when he meets other brilliant anomalies, he realises they're essential to the world in this playful, original 6+ picture-book paean to inspiration and the unconventional.

Phaidon brings us 'The Tomorrow Tree: How Nature Creates New Life From Old', an involving, lyrical and informative nonfiction book that investigates the second lives of fallen trees. With fascinating illustrations, it's perfect for budding naturalists aged 6+.

Oxford University Press has published 'The Diary of Wiska Wildflower: The New School' by Harriet Muncaster. When Wiska starts at Inkcap's Academy, Cleobelle and Primrose seem friendly at first – but do they just want to exploit Wiska's talents? This absorbing full-colour 6+ diary adventure features fairy-like Wisklings navigating change and friendship dilemmas in an addictive new series.

Zephyr has published 'Wild Journey' by AM Dassu, illustrated by Joe Lillington. This high-octane action thriller for 9+ Robert Muchamore fans is ideal for readers who enjoy suspenseful stories of getting lost, overcoming jealousy, helping a wolf cub and more – all connected by the symbol of starling migrations.

Meanwhile, Bonnier Kids has published 'Time Lions And The Chrono-Loop' by Martin Seneviratne and Krystal Sutherland. When genius 12-year-old twins Pearl and Patrick build a time machine, they fall foul of TIME by upsetting the course of history – but their unique skill set is soon needed to undo greater chronological wrongs. Part Spy Kids, part Artemis Fowl, this fast-paced 9+ romp boasts sensitive, thoughtful character development.

Finally, Penguin has published 'Roar' by Manjeet Mann, a powerful 14+ verse novel about Rizu's journey from her privileged life in Delhi to joining a group of vigilantes in pink saris, seeking justice for acts of misogynist violence. This gorgeous book features punchy prose and is an utterly absorbing story.

Faber brings us 'The House Saphir' by Marissa Meyer, a sinister, richly romantic YA Bluebeard retelling about Mallory Fontaine, who capitalises on her ability to see ghosts as an "expert" on the murders of Count Bastien Saphir. When a new murder happens, however, she's swept up in the investigation with potentially deadly consequences – and developing feelings for the count's descendant Armand.

HarperCollins has published 'Girls Who Play Dead' by Joelle Wellington, a gripping 14+ YA thriller about Kyla's best friend Erin being murdered, her brother Mikky returning to their small town to support her, but drawn deeper into dark mysteries of the town's beauty industry. This addictive new series is ideal for fans of Holly Jackson.

Chicken House has published 'The Horse Dreamer' by Holly Surplice, a tender and poignant story about Merryn's family suffering after the loss of Dad – until she finds a new friend in a driftwood and seaweed horse that brings her joy and healing. This gorgeous book features dynamic blue-and-white illustrations and is an ideal gift for 9+ readers.

Finally, Nosy Crow has published 'Ask Me Anything' by Bethany Rutter, a warm, witty, sprightly YA romcom about Mary-Elizabeth's relationship advice being spot-on – but she has a blind spot when it comes to Felix Balfour. This gorgeous book features punchy prose and is an utterly absorbing story.

In these wonderful new picture books and novels from around the world, you'll find festive tales of community, adventure, mystery, magic and more – all guaranteed to warm your heart this Christmas season.

I mean, can we talk about how hard it is to even get started on any thread here? The formatting is a nightmare , and don't even get me started on the formatting of the books themselves. Like, why do they have to have so many different layouts? It's all over the place! And what's with the weird font choices? I mean, I know some people like it when fonts are bold or cursive, but honestly, can't we just stick to a simple Arial or Times New Roman for once?

omg i just love christmas books i was thinking about what my little sis would like for xmas and there are so many good ones out right now but then i started reading through this list and i have no idea where to start lol what's the best one for a 6 year old tho?

omg I need 'The House With The Little Red Door' like now that story about Olivia's lonely house and Mouse's loneliness is giving me ALL the feels it's so beautiful how Olivia finds Mouse a new home and they become friends. I'm totes buying this book ASAP

OMG, I am SO excited about these new picture book releases!! I mean, who doesn't love a good story about community and friendship during the holidays?! "The Street Where Santa Lives" sounds like such a sweet tale of kindness and neighbourly love . And "I Am Wishing Every Minute for Christmas" has me giggling just thinking about Charlie and Lola's impatience !

I gotta say, I'm lovin' this lineup of picture books and novels for kids ! They're like a big ol' hug in book form - all about friendship, community, and just bein' true to yourself. The stories are so well-written and engaging that they'll have your little ones hooked from page one . I mean, who doesn't love a good mystery or adventure story, especially around the holidays?! ️ And the illustrations? Absolutely stunning! They add this extra special somethin' to each book that just makes 'em feel more like presents under the tree . Anyway, I'm definitely checkin' out some of these titles for my mini-me's - thanks for the recs!

OMG just read about these awesome new kids' books and I'm totally hyped! There's a story that makes me think about how cool it is when neighbors come together to help each other , another one that's all about embracing your individuality , and one that combines magic with mystery . And can we talk about the illustrations? Some of these books have the most gorgeous pictures that will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside . I need to get my hands on these ASAP!

OMG, I'm so down for these amazing new picture books and novels for kids! The ones that caught my eye are 'I Am Wishing Every Minute for Christmas' by Lauren Child, it's like a countdown to Christmas in one book . And 'The House With The Little Red Door' by Grace Easton is literally the most heartwarming story about friendship and acceptance . I'm also loving the nonfiction book 'The Tomorrow Tree: How Nature Creates New Life From Old', it's like a natural wonderland waiting to be explored . Can't wait to dive into these and get my kids hooked on reading too! #KidsLit #ChristmasTales #ReadingIsFun

I don’t usually comment but I think it’s awesome that there are so many amazing book recommendations for kids out there . The way these books celebrate community, friendship, and individuality is just beautiful . And I love how they tackle tough topics like loss, jealousy, and social justice in a way that's relatable to kids – it’s like they're speaking directly to them . Can’t wait to dive into some of these titles with my own little ones this holiday season

Ugh, can't believe I have to scroll through another forum that's still using that old template . Can't they just update their theme already? It's like they're trying to make us feel outdated. Anyway, back to the news... so many awesome new books for kids this Christmas season! I'm loving the sound of 'The Street Where Santa Lives' - who wouldn't want a neighbour who thinks he's the real Santa?! ️ And that one about the time machine twins in 'Time Lions And The Chrono-Loop'? That sounds like so much fun! But seriously, it's great to see all these new releases coming out for kids. They're going to love these books... now if only I could get them into my hands without having to wait for weeks .

ugh im so over how little diverse these new releases are like where r the stories for pocs kids or kids with disabilities anyone?

What's up with these new books? I feel like a lot of them are about kids finding their place in the world, whether it's being different or trying to fit in. Like, 'Sketch' is all about embracing your quirks and 'The Diary of Wiska Wildflower' is about navigating friendships and feelings. It's cool to see stories that celebrate individuality and self-expression!

love the mix of genres and age ranges here so many cool stories for kids and adults alike! gotta check out 'The House With The Little Red Door' by Grace Easton, sounds like a beautiful and touching tale about friendship and community also super excited to dive into 'Roar' by Manjeet Mann, the idea of a vigilante group seeking justice is so compelling

I'm so hyped for these new releases! I love how Little Tiger is bringing us some adorable festive stories that celebrate community and kindness, like "The Street Where Santa Lives". It's amazing to see how beautiful illustrations can bring a story to life . And have you seen the lift-the-flap details in Thames & Hudson's new books? Mind. Blown

I'm so stoked about these new releases! I've been waiting for ages to get my hands on 'The House With The Little Red Door' by Grace Easton - the story of a lonely house and Mouse's oak tree is giving me all the feels . And can we talk about how cute the illustrations are?!

And have you seen the trailers for 'Time Lions And The Chrono-Loop'? I'm low-key obsessed with this one! It sounds like the ultimate adventure story for kids aged 9+. The idea of twin geniuses building a time machine is just too cool .

What about 'Roar' by Manjeet Mann? This verse novel looks so powerful and thought-provoking. I love how it tackles important themes like misogyny and justice - it's a great way to introduce kids to these complex issues .

I'm also super excited for 'Ask Me Anything' by Bethany Rutter! The premise of the story is just too funny and relatable. Who hasn't had a blind spot when it comes to crushes, right?

Anyway, I think we're in luck because these books are out now - I've already added them to my wishlist Can't wait to dive into each one!

I'm so excited for the holiday season with all these amazing new kids' books coming out! ️ But can we talk about something that's been bugging me? Like, what happened to diversity in children's literature lately? I mean, I love a good festive tale as much as the next person, but it feels like most of these books are still sticking to their traditional Euro-centric perspectives. Where's the representation for kids from different cultures and backgrounds?

And another thing, why do all these books seem to be so focused on friendship and community, but what about the kid who's feeling lonely or isolated? I mean, 'Sketch' by Jacques Goldstyn was a great find, but shouldn't there be more stories like that out there for kids who are struggling with their place in the world?

Oh wait, I just thought of something! We need to talk about why some of these books are getting so much attention while others are being overlooked. Is it because they're part of a popular series or have a big-name author attached? It feels like some kids' books get more love than others just because of their marketing and hype.

I'm so in love with Lauren Child's 'I Am Wishing Every Minute for Christmas' ! The illustrations are insane and I love how Charlie and Lola get everything ready for Christmas. But what really gets me is the story of Olivia and Mouse, their bond is just . And I need to know more about Sketch, the little firecracker who's different from everyone else . This list has me so excited to dive into all these amazing books! Can't wait for Christmas

I'm so down for a Christmas book fest! These new releases have got me so excited! I love how diverse they are - from picture books that celebrate community and friendship (Little Tiger's 'The Street Where Santa Lives') to novels that tackle tough topics like misogyny and grief ('Roar' and 'The Horse Dreamer'). It's amazing to see authors pushing boundaries and exploring complex themes in kids' literature. The illustrations in some of these books, like Phaidon's 'The Tomorrow Tree', are absolutely stunning Can't wait to get my hands on most of these!

I'm not getting caught up in all the hype around these new releases . Like, don't get me wrong, some of them look super cute and fun, but I'm just going to wait until they're actually out before buying anything . I mean, 25 years between editions? That's a whole lotta marketing for one book, am I right?

Ugh I'm so glad some people are finally getting together in their communities but have you seen the way they're expecting everyone to just rally round each other after one person falls ill? That sounds like a total recipe for disaster and what's up with all these stories about kids being lonely or different? Like, can't we just accept that everyone's weird for once?