Recommended children's booklists sorted by age or topic

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Non-fiction

This book explores what life was really like for everyday people in the Maya Civilization. Using primary sources and information from archeological discoveries, it uncovers some fascinating insights and explodes some myths. Supported by timelines, maps and references to important events and people, children will really feel they are on a time-travelling journey when reading this book.

Non-fiction

Travel back in time to Ancient Greece to discover the origins of the Olympic Games.

Bright, bold and dynamic artwork bring to life the origins of the Olympic Games. Find out about the legend behind the games, the original events and the excitement that filled Olympia during the Olympic Festival. See how the competitors used to train and learn about each of the original events that took place, including chariot racing, wrestling, the discuss, javelin and boxing. Get the Olympic buzz from all the excitement of the hippodrome, Olympic ceremonies and celebrations, and learn about the importance of the Heraia – the competition for women organised by women.

This book provides a brilliant and striking introduction to the Ancient Olympics for children aged 7+.

Graphic Novel

The Greek myths are some of the oldest and most famous stories ever told.

This striking comic book collection is the perfect introduction to the world of the gods – containing six tales full of love, loss, greed, envy and bravery.

Journey down to the Underworld with Orpheus and join Theseus in his quest to defeat the dreaded Minotaur. Bursting with detail and humour, James Davies’ retelling of the Greek myths will delight readers of all ages.

Chapter book

From the bestselling author of Horrible Histories…

Young Acheron is a liar. Everybody knows it. Troy is under siege and Acheron tells tales of Trojan bravery to entertain Prince Paris and the beautiful Helen at the palace. But when a stranger comes to the city to announce that the Greeks have departed, leaving a special gift of a wooden horse, Acheron is suspicious. He races to tell Prince Paris about the Greek plot, but will anyone at the palace believe him?

Terry Deary’s Greek Tales explore the world of Ancient Greece through the eyes of children who could have lived at the time. These stories feature real people and take place in some of the most recognisable Greek settings. This new edition features notes for the reader to help extend learning and exploration of the historical period.

Graphic Novel

Discover the magical myths and legendary heroes of Ancient Greece with award-winning author-illustrator Marcia Williams .

Travel back in time with goat-footed Pan to explore the myths and legends of Ancient Greece. Meet the mighty gods and goddesses of Mount Olympus and some of the worlds best-loved heroes and heroines. In this book you’ll find the stories of Perseus, slayer of Medusa the gorgon; tragic lovers Orpheus and Eurydice; daring Heracles who fearlessly completed twelve Labours and many more. The lively text and humorous cartoon style make these stories accessible and fun for younger readers.

Dyslexia-friendlyNon-fiction

On 4 November 1922, a young Egyptian boy working on Howard Carter’s archaeological dig in the Valley of the Kings stumbled across a strange piece of rock. On closer inspection it turned out to be a stone step that would lead Carter to a long-lost tomb – and to treasures beyond his wildest dreams.

The tomb belonged to boy pharaoh Tutankhamun and was packed full of priceless artefacts. It had been largely untouched for over 3,000 years and remains one of the most important archaeological discoveries of all time. But did the opening of the tomb trigger a deadly curse?

David Long’s fact-filled account shows how Carter’s amazing discoveries told us so much about life in Ancient Egypt.

Chapter book

Renni and Mahu are brothers, but they are complete opposites. When Mahu hatches a plot to rob the tomb of a long-dead general in the Valley of the Kings, Renni is swept into the crime to help his family. But taking the general’s heart scarab sets a much greater chain of events into motion, which are governed by dark and mysterious powers. Will the brothers and their friend Balaal manage to return it before Anubis, the god of death, comes to collect their souls? Or will they, and the general, be cast into the Great Darkness forever?

Children’s books that celebrate fantastic females

We’ve selected a list of recommended books for children that celebrate fantastic females, from favourite fiction books with strong female leads to non-fiction about real-life inspirational heroines.

We believe that it is important for children to see diverse representations of strong, powerful, smart, creative and change-making women in children’s books. That’s why we have collected some of the most inspiring and empowering books that feature female protagonists who challenge stereotypes and break down barriers.

From real-life heroines like Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie to fictional characters like Rosie Revere and Jaz Santos, our list celebrates women and girls who overcome obstacles, pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world. Whether you’re looking for stories about fierce princesses or fearless astronauts, this list of children’s books about inspirational women and girls has got you covered – perfect for International Women’s Day and throughout the whole year.

So if you want to inspire your little ones with tales of courage, determination, and resilience, keep scrolling and discover our top picks for the best children’s books about strong women.

Picturebook

An inspiring and empowering rhyming story that’s a joy to read aloud, all about the power of children to change the world.

Sally McBrass is the smallest girl in the youngest class – but Sally knows you don’t have to be big to be strong. From kites stuck up trees to howling dogs to stray cats in the car park, little Sally notices things that others don’t, and when she sees people being mean at school, she is brave enough to speak up.

The Smallest Girl in the Class by Justin Roberts and Christian Robinson is a moving and gorgeously illustrated story about bravery and changing the world for the better. The perfect book to build empathy and start discussions about kindness with young children.

Non-fiction

This book describes how the Vikings invaded and conquered much of Britain, and voyaged far and wide. Viking longships, raids and fighting style are all explored, alongside their beliefs and ways of life, to build up a true picture of these most famous invaders. The book concludes with a look at the Vikings’ legacy in Britain today.

Illustrated with a mix of illustrations and found objects, each book in the series describes a famous civilisation, its customs and organisations, how it began and expanded, and its eventual decline.

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