Listen to the article
The Associated Press has released its annual selection of standout children’s books for the 2025 holiday season, offering parents, educators, and gift-givers a curated list of engaging reads across all age groups.
For the youngest readers aged 0-3, board books like Sandra Magsamen’s “I Love You, Little Moose!” stand out with its vibrant colors, tactile plushie antlers, and simple five-line nature poem. Science-minded toddlers might enjoy Eric Carle’s “Why Does the Wind Blow?”, which explains meteorological concepts through the beloved Very Hungry Caterpillar character.
“Little Heroes of Color: I’m A Little Hero” by David Heredia introduces diverse historical figures like Jim Thorpe and Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor through accessible rhyming patterns, complete with a mirror for self-affirmation. Grammy winner Victoria Monét’s “Everywhere You Are,” illustrated by Alea Marley, offers a musical quality to its reassuring message about parental love transcending physical distance.
Children ages 3-8 have several standout options. “Bitty and Bub, Best Buds” by Janee Trasler serves as an excellent introduction to comic reading with its five short, simple panel stories. For humor-loving children, “Don’t Trust Fish” by Neil Sharpson and illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat takes a hilarious approach to animal classification.
Indigenous storytelling traditions are celebrated in “Grandmother Moon” by Wunneanatsu Lamb-Cason, which includes cultural elements like a Moon Calendar and turtle shell symbolism alongside Trisha B. Waters’ dreamlike illustrations.
Middle-grade readers aged 8-12 can enjoy the seventh installment in Abby Hanlon’s popular “Dory Fantasmagory” series, which continues to bridge the gap between picture books and chapter books with its zany protagonist. STEM enthusiasts might gravitate toward “Maker Girl and Professor Smarts” by Jasmine Florentine, a hybrid graphic novel that incorporates actual science projects like making sorbet and cardboard grappling hooks.
“The Weirdies” by Michael Buckley brings Lemony Snicket-style humor to the adventures of eccentric 10-year-old triplets, while Katherine Rundell’s highly anticipated “The Poisoned King,” the second book in her Impossible Creatures series, continues the dragon-filled fantasy adventure. Alan Barillaro’s “Bunns Rabbit” offers a more contemplative option with its descriptive writing and dramatic illustrations exploring themes of difference and acceptance.
The young adult selection for readers 12 and up addresses complex themes through various genres. Jasminne Mendez’s “The Story of My Anger,” told in verse and play format, follows a Texas high schooler navigating racism and family stress. Kiersten White’s Gothic mystery “The House of Quiet” explores class struggles, while Jennifer Niven’s “When We Were Monsters” blends dark academia, murder mystery, and romance with “Frankenstein” motifs.
For readers dealing with grief, Margot Fisher’s debut “Leave It on the Track” follows a protagonist who finds healing through roller derby after losing her fathers. Body positivity advocate Tess Holliday co-authored “Take Up Space, Y’all” with Kelly Coon, offering practical advice on fashion, food relationships, and mental health, while being careful to defer medical concerns to professionals.
Eugene Yelchin’s graphic memoir “I Wish I Didn’t Have to Tell You This” rounds out the list, chronicling the Jewish author’s escape from Soviet Russia with a unique artistic style that incorporates photographs alongside family anecdotes.
This thoughtfully curated list spans diverse genres, themes, and representation, ensuring holiday shoppers can find the perfect literary gift to inspire young readers of any age or interest.
Fact Checker
Verify the accuracy of this article using The Disinformation Commission analysis and real-time sources.
10 Comments
The musical quality of the book about parental love sounds lovely. Children’s books that incorporate creative elements like that can really capture their imagination.
Agreed, the musical aspect is a nice touch that could make the book more engaging and memorable for young readers.
I’m curious to learn more about the comic-style book introducing kids to that format. Developing early literacy skills through different mediums is important.
Yes, the comic book format could be a great way to get children excited about reading in a new way.
These new children’s books sound like they cover a great range of topics and age groups. I’m particularly interested in the science-focused titles that make complex concepts accessible for young readers.
Yes, the book on why the wind blows seems like a clever way to teach meteorology to toddlers.
Overall, this seems like a thoughtful and diverse selection of children’s books for the 2025 holiday season. I’m sure many families will appreciate the recommendations.
Agreed, the variety of titles caters to different age groups and learning styles, which is ideal for holiday gift-giving.
I like that the list includes diverse representation, like the book featuring historical figures of color. Promoting inclusivity and positive role models is so important for kids’ development.
Absolutely, representation matters. It’s great to see publishers investing in these kinds of inclusive children’s books.