The benefits of reading for children are wide-ranging and impactful. Not only does it improve language skills, creativity, concentration, discipline, and cognitive development, but it also opens a world of amazing stories and adventures for them. Children of all ages can benefit from entering the world of picture books, fiction, non-fiction, biographies, poetry, and more. Putting a positive emphasis on reading at a young age can help them develop a lifelong love for books, which will keep them entertained and learning for their entire lives.
Thousands of children’s books are published annually, with over 250 million sold each year, making up 32.8% of all book sales in the United States. Because we know that walking through the children’s book aisle at the store can be pretty overwhelming, we’ve prepared a list of some great children’s books released in 2023 that we think your kids will love.
The Artist (Ed Vere – ages 3+)
This book tells the story of a brave artist (and dinosaur) who goes on a journey to share her creativity with the world. While overcoming setbacks, the artist brightens things up with her talent and generosity everywhere she goes. Aside from being wonderfully illustrated, it teaches kids to stay positive in the face of obstacles and how much of an impact you can make by sharing your artistic talents.
Mary Can! (Mary J. Blige – ages 3+)
This inspirational story was written by the multi-talented award-winning artist Mary J. Blige. After being constantly told “no,” Mary decides she won’t let negativity get her down as she chases her dream of being a famous singer. It teaches kids to be confident and ambitious and to believe in themselves no matter what.
Woo Hoo! You’re Doing Great! (Sandra Boynton – ages 6+)
A New York Times Bestseller, this uplifting book shares an important message about trying your best, no matter what you’re doing. Throughout the book, there is an exuberant chicken there to give you a pep talk to help you overcome any fears or trepidations you may have about learning a new skill or feeling stressed. It’s a funny and heartfelt book that will help foster positive self-esteem in your kids.
Wants vs Needs vs Robots (Michael Rex – ages 6+)
This book explains the important difference between wants and needs. Using robots as an example, the author explores what happens when a robot sacrifices its needs for wants, compared to one that prioritizes its needs and is more creative and selective with its wants. It’s a fun read-aloud book with excellent illustrations and an important lesson for kids.
Little People, BIG DREAMS: Lewis Hamilton (Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara – ages 6+)
Little People, Big Dreams is a popular series of biographies for kids that tells the stories of exceptional people from the world of music, education, sports, film, activism, and more. This edition looks at the inspiring story of F1 Racing Champion Lewis Hamilton, who overcame adversity to become one of the greatest race car drivers ever. Aside from his trophies, he has been an advocate for racial justice, racial diversity in sports, as well as positive mental health. The story is told in simple sentences and is perfect for reading aloud to toddlers.
The Eyes and the Impossible (Dave Eggers – ages 9+)
Acclaimed author Dave Eggers offers an endearing story about a free dog (and a very fast dog) named Johannes, who unwittingly becomes a hero to the other animals in the park where he lives. Beautifully illustrated, it’s a wild, witty, thought-provoking story about friendship and liberation that can be enjoyed with the whole family.
The One and Only Ruby (Katherine Applegate – ages 9+)
This book is the second sequel to the award-winning modern classic “The One and Only Ivan” and stars Ruby, the baby elephant from that wonderful story. It picks up a few months after the end of the second book, “The One and Only Bob,” and finds Ruby living in a wildlife sanctuary in Africa. When she is visited by her caretaker from the orphanage she grew up in, it brings back a flood of memories which she shares with her friends. It’s beautifully written and is humorous, heartfelt and sweet.
Four Eyes (Rex Ogle & Dave Valeza – ages 9+)
Four Eyes is a heartwarming graphic novel about fitting in, standing up to bullies, and finding the right pair of glasses. It follows the story of Rex, who’s having trouble fitting in with his sixth-grade classmates in his new school. It tackles themes of loneliness and change and takes the reader through some emotional highs and lows, ultimately spinning a funny, heartfelt tale about finding connections and overcoming adversity.