Recommended children's booklists sorted by age or topic

Author & Illustrators

Rachel Bright Books

The Turtle Who Turned the Tide

Picturebook

A heartwarming tale of adventure, bravery and one baby turtle who changes her world for good – from the bestselling and award-winning creators of The Lion Inside.

On a midnight-black beach, it’s time for a grand hatching. A rowdy crowd of animal onlookers have gathered to see which baby turtle will win the great race to safety in the sea.

But when Tula’s brother loses his way, this baby turtle faces a difficult choice: will she choose to win the race or will she turn back to rescue her brother? And will the other animals stay on the sidelines, or will Tula’s brave decision inspire them to join the rescue mission?

An inspiring and funny rhyming story of how we all have the power to change things for the better.

The Hideysaurus

Chris Chatterton & Rachel Bright

Picturebook

This rhythmic story offers a reassuring take on handling shyness.

When a party becomes too much for Hideysaurus, she hides! There is a gentleness and empathy to the pacing of this tale that feels perfect for preschoolers, providing a comforting choice for any child finding crowds or a new school a bit daunting.

With bright and gentle illustrations and fun characters that capture real emotions, this is a lovely addition to the EYFS book corner that encourages connection and understanding. By focusing on small steps rather than forced bravery, it serves as a warm prompt for chatting about big feelings at a child’s own speed.

The Wobblysaurus

Chris Chatterton & Rachel Bright

Picturebook

A funny and reassuring tale about perseverance and resilience, by Rachel Bright and Chris Chatterton, creators of The Worrysaurus.

When Wobblysaurus gets her very first bicycle, she can’t wait to go and ride with all her friends. But every time Wobblysaurus sets off her new wheels, she wibbles… wobbles… and falls!

This little dinosaur is just about ready to give up, but then a word from a wise Grannysaurus reminds her that when you really want something, it’s always worth trying again.

An empowering story with a reassuring reminder that everyone starts off wobbly when trying something new. From the author of the bestselling The Lion Inside.

The Camel Who Had the Hump

Jim Field & Rachel Bright

Picturebook

A charming picture book about Cuthbert, a camel having a very bad day (relatable to any children who have ever been said to have “the hump”). Fortunately for Cuthbert, a new friend helps him discover how a shift in perspective can brighten even the gloomiest of mornings.

Rachel Bright‘s rhyming text and Jim Field’s characterful illustrations create a funny story with an uplifting feel. This is a perfect read for preschoolers exploring their feelings and the power to turn things around when the day is going wrong.

Love Monster

Rachel Bright

Picturebook

A warm and witty story featuring Love Monster, who now appears in his own animated television show on CBeebies!

It can be tough being the only funny-looking Monster in Cutesville, but this Monster is not one to hang around and feel sorry for himself, so he’s off – out into the big wide world to look for someone to love him.
He looks high, he looks low and he looks everywhere in-between, but it’s only when he’s just about to give up that he finally finds what he is looking for…

Featuring an instantly charming main character who will appeal to children and adults alike, LOVE MONSTER is a warm and witty tale about the power of taking action.

Slug in Love

Nadia Shireen & Rachel Bright

Picturebook

The irresistible story of one slug’s search for love from picture book bestsellers Rachel Bright and Nadia Shireen.

Doug the slug needs a hug. But who wants to hug a slug called Doug?

Snuggle up with lonesome Doug on his search for love in this completely charming picture book which shows that you just never know when love might come flying by… (And which introduces an unsuspecting world to snail superstar, Gail!)

A warm and endearing rhyming text by Rachel Bright (Love Monster, The Lion Inside) is perfectly paired with funny and fabulous illustrations by Nadia Shireen (Good Little Wolf, Billy and the Beast) in this adorable future classic.

Snail in Space

Nadia Shireen & Rachel Bright

Picturebook

Gail is determined to get more out of life than the other snails. She’s not content with keeping her foot on the ground, eating greens and growing old; she’s not your average snail, she wants to blaze a different trail. This snail wants to go into space! Accomplishing her ambition will take perseverance and hard work, overcoming last-minute hurdles, but, as Gail shows, if you have a dream anything is possible.

Bold, bright illustrations complement this humorous, rhyming story from two skilled picture book creators, about the power of purpose and persistence, showing that resilience is key to success.

Gail is an endearing snail, standing out from the rest with her leopard print shell. Her character is brought vividly to life with her emotions and thoughts conveyed solely through the illustrations of her eyes, providing a masterclass in how important it is to read the pictures as well as the words. Featuring a sparkling, inviting cover, this is ideal for sharing with Early Years and KS1 children to enjoy and encourage self-belief.

The Pandas Who Promised

Jim Field & Rachel Bright

Picturebook

Rachel Bright and Jim Field deliver another triumph with The Pandas Who Promised, part of their highly successful series that began with The Lion Inside.

This rhyming, animal story is an absolute joy to read aloud, and it beautifully explores the vital importance of keeping promises, building trust and staying safe. Family bonds are explored, and most children will relate to one or other of the panda cubs, with Popo wishing to stay safe in his family nest and Ketu itching to explore and seek adventure.

Animal lovers will be drawn to this story, and it is likely to spark an interest in finding out more about red pandas and their mountainside habitat.

The Koala Who Could

Jim Field & Rachel Bright

Picturebook

A funny rhyming story about dealing with change and overcoming worries, from the bestselling creators of The Lion Inside.

In a wonderful place, at the breaking of dawn, where the breezes were soft and the sunshine was warm, a place where the creatures ran wild and played free … A Koala called Kevin clung to a tree.

Meet Kevin. A koala who likes to keep things the same. Exactly the same. But sometimes change comes along whether we like it or not… And, as Kevin discovers, if you step outside your comfort zone and try new things, you might just surprise yourself!

The Gecko and the Echo

Jim Field & Rachel Bright

Picturebook

A flamboyantly fun tropical tale of love, fame, friendship from the creators of the international bestseller The Lion Inside.

Goldy wants one thing, and one thing only – to be a STAR. On the sunny island this gecko calls home, it’s always THE GOLDY SHOW, morning ’til night.

But when you’re dazzled by the limelight, it’s easy to lose sight of the world around you. And when Goldy’s performance starts to go wrong, the little gecko discovers that friendship means so much more than fame. Because when you treat the world with love, then love will come echoing back.

This funny and touching rhyming story is perfect for sharing, reminding us all that treating others with kindness makes the whole world a better and happier place.