With so many great children’s books out there, it’s hard to know what to pick for the next bedtime story or read-aloud. There are so many books out on the market right now that trying to pick a read can seem overwhelming! You want something that will feed your children’s curiosity and promote learning, while still being entertaining enough to hold their attention.
That’s where children’s book series come in. These batches of books act as familiar touchstones for young readers, helping them connect with recognizable characters from the first read to the next. Kids will be thrilled to read these five stories and follow the characters through their adventures — and you’ll be thrilled that your child is learning while having fun!
The Questioneers by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
A New York Times bestselling series and a Netflix TV show, The Questioneers is the perfect way to introduce kids to different disciplines. It seems as though the series covers every possible career path, from architect to scientist to future president. Along with educating children about different professional fields, it also helps them learn that the challenges in their path don’t define them (see Aaron’s dyslexia in Aaron Slater, Illustrator!). Filled with memorable, compelling characters and whimsical illustrations, this series encourages young readers to pursue their passions and have confidence in themselves. Kids will be self-assured with the knowledge that with hard work and determination, they can accomplish truly incredible things.
If Not You, Then Who? by David and Emberli Pridham
It’s never been easier to introduce children to the amazing world of S.T.E.M.! As parents, guardians and teachers strive to teach the principles of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, If Not You, Then Who? is here to help. This engaging series makes learning easy and fun as its characters learn how they can use these disciplines in their daily lives. Whether the three Fairley siblings are building a treehouse or coming up with an invention to help the environment, young readers will be inventing right alongside them. And while some kids are intimidated by STEM, If Not You, Then Who? will assure them that there’s nothing to fear. In fact, it turns out that the world of S.T.E.M. can be a blast!
Take a look at what else we’ve had to say about the If Not You, Then Who? series here, here and here.
Creatrilogy by Peter Reynolds
These three best-selling, award-winning books promote exactly what you think — creativity! The illustrious Peter Reynolds harnesses his own talent and imagination to bring kids a series all about the beauty of self-expression. From Ish’s message that a drawing doesn’t have to be “perfect” to be incredible, to Dot’s encouragement to simply start somewhere — these books will entice even the stubbornest artist-to-be to embrace creativity and spontaneity. The Creatrilogy’s illustrations capture the playful energy of the books’ text, demonstrating to young readers the joy and freedom that the act of creation can bring.
Mia & Tiago by Gosia Glinska, illustrated by Tomasz Plaskowski
It’s never too early to start learning about entrepreneurship and self-initiative! Gosia Glinska and Tomasz Plaskowski’s Mia & Tiago series teaches kids just that; alongside the protagonists, kids will come along on an adventure in ingenuity. When classmates and friends Mia & Tiago team up for a school project on new ventures to help their community, they’re stumped on what their project should focus on. Each book in the series focuses on a real-life approach that entrepreneurs use to get their ideas up and going. From the bird in the hand principle to the lemonade principle, young readers will have a step-by-step guide at their disposal, ready for their next idea!
Read our full review of Mia & Tiago: The Bird in Hand Principle here.
What Do You Do With…? by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom
When a book is an Amazon teacher’s pick, you know it’s going to be educational. This series, described as being “for anyone who’s ever had a big idea,” is all about encouraging independent thinking and problem solving in children. Written in simple, straightforward language, What Do You Do With…? asks its readers to look inward at what interests and inspires them. Thanks to these books, children can feel pride in the value of their ideas, knowing that they’ve accomplished something great by simply trying. By encouraging young readers to go out and seek inspiration, What Do You Do With…? is the perfect read to boost a child’s confidence in their own abilities.