Children’s Books of the Year 2024 Publishers K – Z
Kingfisher Books
Curious Features of Extraordinary Creatures showcases some of the most unique mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and insects found on our planet and the extraordinary tactics they employ to survive. Fiona Fogg’s glorious illustrations bring together a dynamic animal portrait and a graphic-novel story panel that reveals a particular quirky behaviour. Parents and guardians be warned – some of these curious animals have particularly gross habits, but young readers will relish every moment. Dancing spiders, poison-sucking slugs and snot-eating aye-ayes… who wouldn’t be enthralled? Lizzie Yeates, Senior Commissioning Editor
Kumusha Books (an imprint of HarperCollins Children’s Books)
Kenny is a happy little boy who tells us about his life, his likes and dislikes, hopes and dreams. At the start of the book, he wonders if anyone else is like him. Then a world of boys and girls answer back! A Book of People Like Me is the first in a series of books discussing life from a primary school child’s point of view. The book speaks directly to them, inspiring children to think about their identity and place in the world. Joelle Avelino’s vibrant and joyful illustrations celebrate how different people can also be so similar. Ken Wilson-Max, Publisher, Kumusha Books
Ladybird Books
Ladybird is thrilled to publish Uh-Oh Niko by Chris Chatterton in April 2024. Niko is an adorable little bear who is navigating first experiences. The stories are told in simple, bouncy rhyme – with a catchy ‘Uh-oh, Niko’ refrain that children LOVE – and each spread has sliders and flaps for children to help Niko overcome those little daily mishaps familiar to toddlers. The first story in the series is ‘Bedtime’ – children can help Niko find his favourite toy, get ready for bed and tuck him into bed. It’s a fun family read! Louise Grosart, Publisher
Macmillan Children’s Books
I am so excited for Some Like it Cold, the debut YA novel from bestselling Elle McNicoll. This big-hearted neurodivergent romance for Gilmore Girls fans follows Jasper Montgomery, who, on visiting her hometown to say goodbye, unexpectedly encounters her teen nemesis Arthur. Against the backdrop of old movies and a wintry bucket list, it explores complexity of love in all its forms – familial, platonic and romantic, and is the most heartwarming romance I’ve read in years. It’s comforting and tender and bold and I can’t wait for readers to fall head over heels for Jasper and Arthur next autumn! Emma Jones, Publishing Director, Fiction
I can’t wait for Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ The Tooth Fairy and the Crocodile. Packed with adventure, it’s the story of Ruth Mary the tooth fairy, who gets more than she bargained for when she is re-deployed for animal duty and has to collect the teeth of a host of jungle creatures, including a less-than-friendly crocodile! With gorgeous artwork and so much fun, this toothy tale is sure to become a firm favourite with young readers. It’s a joy! Hannah Ray, Publishing Director, Picture Books
My poetry highlight is Heroes and Villains: poems about legends chosen by Ana Sampson and illustrated by Chris Riddell. This is a companion volume to Gods and Monsters: Mythological poems which we published in 2023. This beautiful collection features classic and brand-new poems about legends and legendary folk from around the world including The Pied Piper, The Lady of the Lake, King Arthur, Joan of Arc, Robin Hood, Lady Godiva, Mulan, Fin McCool as well as dragons and sea monsters. Footnotes and asides to shine light on the stories themselves. Gaby Morgan, Associate Publisher
Old Barn Books
Eddy, Eddy is a richly layered novel, written with humour and pathos: a love story, peopled with flawed and comical characters, both human and animal; and a story of grief, the way its punch may leave you floundering – and how others can help you find your way back. Shortlisted for Book of the Year in Kate De Goldi’s native New Zealand, the many who loved The 10pm Question will find here the same unparalleled empathy with the tortured mind of a teenager and De Goldi’s matchless linguistic dexterity. Old Barn Books will also re-publish The 10pm Question this summer. Ruth Huddleston, Founder and Publisher
Otter-Barry Books
We are particularly excited by two titles, first Spin! Ten Exciting New Voices in Poetry, edited and selected by Joseph Coelho and illustrated by Ruthine Burton. It is a collection of fifty poems for KS2 from a new generation of young poets all from diverse/under-represented backgrounds. Published with performance trailblazers Apples and Snakes and including three new poems from Joseph. Secondly, The Boy Who Loves to Lick the Wind by Fiona Carswell illustrated by Yu Rong for KS1. This is a touching and empathetic picture story book showing how friendship and acceptance grows through understanding. We hope it will help children and adults understand neuro-diverse traits and behaviour in themselves and others. Janetta Otter-Barry, Founder and Publisher
Penguin
Once upon a time, in a forest of tangled secrets, a wild girl and a broken boy fell in love.
Part dark fantasy, part feminist reimagining of Beauty and the Beast, Where The Dark Stands Still by A.B. Poranek (February) is a sweeping gothic romance infused with polish folklore and the must-read romantasy you’ve all been waiting for. The ideal read for fans of Belladonna, A Curse So Dark and Lonely and Gallant. The story follows Liska, who makes a pact with a demon to rid herself of her magic. In return, she must agree to a year of servitude in the demon’s crumbling manor at the heart of a spirit-wood. An enchanting spell of a book. Carmen McCullough, Publisher
Piccadilly Press
Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm by debut author Ash Bond is my book of the year. It’s an action-packed and wildly inventive fantasy adventure that that fizzes with humour and combines old gods and new tech in a race to save the realms. Peregrine is a fabulous hero: she’s impulsive and headstrong but has so much heart, too. The dynamic between Peregrine and her companions – a holographic faun and a trainee dryad librarian – provides plenty of laughs to offset the drama. It will keep you gripped right through to its dramatic finale. Ruth Bennett, Editorial Director
Puffin
Discover a world of magic and secrets, friendship and unimaginable quests in this spectacular new fantasy series about a boy who doesn’t believe in magic and an impossible world that will change his mind. The Whisperwicks: The Labyrinth of Lost and Found is filled with characters that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Join shy and bookish Benjamiah and the fierce and headstrong Elizabella on their journey through a strange and marvellous labyrinth to find Elizabella’s missing brother. Combining the writing power and world-building of Philip Pullman and Katherine Rundell and the page-turning appeal of Skandar and the Unicorn Thief, this story is guaranteed to be a future classic. Carmen McCullough, Publisher
Scallywag Press
The story of One-Button and the Sea, by Sara Stanley (author) and Viviane Schwarz (illustrator), is told entirely through dialogue between a 
grandparent and his grandchild, as they explore together their shared memories of a disruptive event in their lives. It is lyrical and moving – sometimes funny, always direct.
Using the sea as a metaphor for the limbo of displacement – whether emotional or physical – this is a heartwarming and robust collaboration between author and artist, celebrating the importance of community during times of crisis – and the power of hope. I love this book. I can only give you a hundred words, but the pictures alone will give you thousands. Janice Thomson, Publisher
Scribe
We’re thrilled to be publishing How to Find a Rainbow by Alom Shaha, a captivating tale blending the contrasting perspectives of two sisters on rainy days and the magical allure of rainbows. With vibrant illustrations by Sarthak Sinha, Shaha takes readers on a heart-warming journey, emphasizing finding light in the darkest moments. Beyond the enchanting narrative, this book provides a guide to creating your own rainbow. Alom brings a wealth of experience as a teacher, writer, and filmmaker. His passion for science and education shines through, making this book an engaging and enriching experience for readers of all ages. Nicola Garrison, Scribe
Simon and Schuster
This May we are very proud to be publishing The Wrong Shoes, Tom Percival’s stunningly illustrated first middle-grade novel, and a moving exploration of the experience of child poverty. Faced with some difficult situations at home and school, twelve-year-old Will discovers the importance of choice and the uplifting power of friendship. Tom is much celebrated for his beautiful depictions of empathy and expression. Here, he shines a light on an issue affecting more than four million children in the UK today. Published in partnership with the National Literacy Trust, this is a vital book for 8+ readers. Lucy Pearse, Fiction Publisher
Studio Press (an imprint of Bonnier)
Wolves Will Not Be Wolves by Frances Stickley and Hannah Abbo is a fairy tale picture book with a difference – based on the story of Red Riding Hood, it asks the question, why should Little Red stick to the path when the wolf can wander anywhere? Why is the onus on the victim to change their behaviour, rather than on the villain? Fran and Hannah explore a serious subject in an easy-to-understand way, encouraging children to challenge the narrative of traditional cautionary tales. It includes a note for parents and caregivers to help support them as they discuss this topic with young ones. Stephanie Milton, Head of Studio Press
Sunbird Books, an imprint of Phoenix International Publications
I’m over the moon about Sally Anne Garland’s new picture book The Moon Seed (August)! Her extraordinary story—inspired by historical events—imagines the ‘inner life’ of one of the seeds launched into space on the 1971 Apollo 14 moon mission. When the seed is planted back on Earth, it grows like a normal seed…except for one thing. It longs to be near the moon again! Garland’s gorgeous illustrations depict the seed maturing into a tree that is determined to stay awake each night and grow as high as the sky. Will it ever be content to live on Earth? Kathy Broderick, Executive Editor
Tate Children’s Books
Dream Kite (May) is about a young Caribbean boy who dreams of making a beautiful, soaring 
kite for his town’s kite festival. Written by Grace Hallworth, an author, librarian, and bastion for Afro-Caribbean children’s literature, Dream Kite was one of the last manuscripts that she was working on before she sadly passed away in 2021. It is our honour to publish it now, with Sophie Bass as illustrator. Sophie Bass is a singular talent who is already making waves in children’s publishing and who has breathed new life into this uplifting tale with her utterly unique, dynamic style. Cherise Lopes-Baker, Tate Children’s Editor
Templar
There are so many books I’m excited to publish in 2024 but one that has touched me personally – and will change how I interact with others in the future – is My Name is a Gift by Zeshan Akhter. This picture book is about the power of a single word – one’s name. It has been brought to life so beautifully by illustrator Åsa Gilland who renders the characters with such emotion and empathy. I believe it will become a cherished guide for years to come on the art of saying someone’s name and the importance of heritage – one which will inspire both adults and children. Sophie Hallam, Head of Templar
The Emma Press
We can’t wait to bring Clare Pollard’s re-telling of Arthurian myth The Untameables, illustrated by Reena Makwana, to readers in March. It’s not only a thrilling quest narrative following two engaging and complex lead characters, but an innovative and relatable exploration on timely big issues, with warmongering Knights of the Round Table and the land suffering from an unseen poison. It’s an adventure for all of us: an acclaimed poet and novelist’s first book for children, the Emma Press’ first original English-language chapter book, and of course for Roan and Elva, the young protagonists, setting out to save Camelot and more besides. James Trevelyan, Director (Maternity Cover)
Two Hoots (an imprint of Macmillan Children’s Books)
A Little World of Ants by Cara Rooney is something brand new for Two Hoots: a gorgeous lift-the-flap non-fiction celebration of one of nature’s tiniest wonders – ants. Author/illustrator Cara Rooney won the Macmillan 
Prize for Illustration with this one, and her stylish and distinctive artwork is cleverly paired with interactive novelty elements and exciting facts to immerse young children in a world of friendly minibeasts. It’s incredibly cute and completely unique – perfect for kickstarting a love of the natural world. Helen Weir, Senior Editor
Usborne
2024 is an exciting year for Usborne Fiction, but if we had to pick just one book then it would be the YA novel Where Sleeping Girls Lie from the phenomenal Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé. Publishing in March, this gripping dark academia mystery is packed with twists, turns and dark secrets making it utterly impossible to put down. Alongside being a propulsive read, it is also a thought-provoking look at the imbalance of power around sexual assault, and the importance of community and speaking up.
Plus, there is more coming from Faridah in June, with enemies-to-lovers Muslim romcom Four Eids and a Funeral, written in partnership with fellow prize-winning YA author, Adiba Jaigirdar. Both books are sure to top the charts next year! Rebecca Hill, Fiction Editorial Director
Walker Books
For Walker Books in 2024, Patrick Ness’s middle grade debut Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody stands in a league of its own. Patrick is simply the most dazzling writer of his generation, and these fresh adventure stories about a mismatched group of animals attending school together show his great skill. Illustrated with humour and style by Tim Miller, these are school stories as only Patrick could write them, full of the terror and humour of being forced to spend your life with others whose only bond with you is that you are the same age and live nearby. Intensely funny and brilliantly imagined.
Walker Studio, our flagship list of art-led crossover books, has two incredibly special books in 2024. In London – A History award-winning illustrator Laura Carlin delves into London’s rich history and culture, celebrating one of the world’s greatest cities, with her spellbinding artwork, paired with poems and historical accounts. My other favourite is Ukraine – Remember Also Me, a unique collection of personal testimony of Ukrainians collected during the year after the Russian invasion, by award-winning artist George Butler as he drew their portraits. From civilians in occupied cities to soldiers on the front line, this is a powerful testament to the resilience and pride of the people of Ukraine. Denise Johnstone-Burt, Publishing Director
What On Earth Books
How to Teach Grown-ups About Climate Change (March), written by Patricia Daniels, illustrated by Aaron Blecha, is a unique, positive book for 2024. Children are the ones leading the way in conversations about our planet, and this book equips them with the cutting-edge science they need to educate the older generations! The writing is both authoritative and witty, and we have a stellar expert consultant in climate scientist Dr Michael E. Mann. Readers will discover how to counter every argument a grown-up might make who shows signs of inaction, despair or denial – and at the end there is a quiz to check they have been paying attention! Natalie Bellos, Publisher, What on Earth Publishing
Zuntold
Miriam Halahmy, twice nominated and once longlisted for the Carnegie Medal, has an astonishing gift of narrating the experience of young people across boundaries of time, culture, and class. Illuminated in uncluttered, beautiful character driven storytelling, The Bronte Girl (March), brings the Brontës alive for a new generation of readers. In a world of increasing inequality and global attacks on women’s rights, we believe this is a novel for our time. ZunTold currently publishes around four books a year and we focus on stories that inspire and support young people’s hopes for a better life. Elaine Bousfield Founder and Director
