Wondering why your commute was a lot cuter than usual today? It’s because World Book Day is here again. Children in countries across the world have dressed up as their favourite characters from books and comics, and all the little Harry Potters, superheroes, Gangsta Grannies, Where’s Wallys and Tigers who Came to Tea have made their way to school to celebrate all things literary.
Books really are brilliant, aren’t they? They can transport us to new places when we’re at home, and they make excellent travelling companions when we’re abroad, too. What better way to pass the time at the airport than opening a window into another world? Reading is a great way to switch off from phone and tablet screens too. World Book Day is a charity that aims to give every child a book of their own, so we’ve picked our top five beach reads for kids that will get your budding bookworms reading on holiday.
Fing by David Walliams
We asked The Book People which new children’s title they would recommend, and this one was at the top of their list, so you know it must be good.
Hot off the press (it was only published last month), Fing is the latest offering by David Walliams. This comedian turned beloved children’s author is hailed as a 21st century Roald Dahl, as he creates clever, silly stories that are already considered children’s classics. Pick up this book and meet spoilt Myrtle Meek who gets everything she wants, and her parents who will do anything to keep her happy. But what happens when she demands a Fing, a creature that (almost certainly) doesn’t exist? We reckon it will involve a bit of an adventure…
Recommended age: 7+ years
For children who like: Horrid Henry by Francesca Simon and Matilda by Roald Dahl
Peppa Pig and the Great Vacation
Admittedly we love everything beachy, so when we heard that there’s a Peppa Pig book about a beach holiday, we were already sold. Mischievous Peppa is excited for her family break. The only problem? She has to leave her goldfish, Goldie, behind. A fun caper with well-loved characters, this book might just save your bacon if your kids don’t share your enthusiasm for quiet, relaxing beach days.
Recommended age: 2-6 years
For children who like: Colourful picture books, beaches and the Peppa Pig cartoon
Baby Shark by John John Bajet
If you know, you know. And if you know, you’re probably humming it right now. Baby Shark is a picture book based on the song of the same name about a family of friendly sharks. This catchy tune can be heard at school discos and holiday kids clubs everywhere, and is a great way to get little ones engaged with a book – they can sing along, do the dance moves and have fun reading all at the same time. But maybe don’t read it aloud when you’re on the plane.
Recommended age: 2-6 years
For children who like: Getting repetitive songs stuck in your head that you end up singing to yourself when there aren’t even any kids around (please just make it stop)
How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell
Today: How to Train Your Dragon, tomorrow: Game of Thrones. We’re kidding, obviously. But starting your nerdlings on fantasy books early can only be a good thing. This series has been adapted into three brilliant animated films and a TV
Recommended age: 8+ years
For children who like: The Dreamworks films of the same name
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J. K. Rowling
No list of top children’s books is complete without Harry Potter. A new potential Potterhead is born every minute, and it’s our job to share the magic with our kids. Whether you’ve seen the films, visited the theme parks or played the Lego games, there are now so many ways to fall in love with Hogwarts. Read them aloud or let your littles curl up and read independently, we can’t think of a better series to get them reading on holiday than this one. Just keep your eye out for fantastic beasts when you’re abroad…
Recommended age: 9+
For children who like: Stories about magic, friendship and adventure
Fancy a family holiday? Get it booked (sorry) with On the Beach…
