The Best Kids Books of 2024: Great Reads Including Books on Wicked and Taylor Swift

‘Kareem Between’ by Shifa Saltagi Safadi

This National Book Award for Young People’s Literature winner is a novel-in-verse that follows Kareem, a Syrian-American student trying to navigate the seventh grade. From failed football tryouts to a job helping a new student who happens to be a Syrian refugee, Kareem must learn to balance the many sides of himself.

‘I Am Elphaba’ and ‘I Am Glinda’ by Mary Man-Kong, illustrated by Elsa Chang

Though the Wicked novels themselves may not be appropriate for kids, these early reader books about the famous witches of Oz are just for them!

Consider gifting the little ones who can’t stop singing along to “Popular” or “Defying Gravity” from the new movie soundtrack one of these little Golden books.

‘You Are Fearless: A Book for the Littlest Taylor Swift Fans’ illustrated by Laura Catrinella

Even if you didn’t get a chance to catch the Eras tour this year, this picture book is the perfect read for the smallest Swifties in your life. Recounting Taylor Swift’s journey to becoming one of the world’s biggest pop stars, the picture book also incorporates uplifting messages from her music.

‘Piper Chen Sings’ by Phillipa Soo and Maris Pasquale Doran, illustrated by Qin Leng

 When Piper is chosen to sing a solo at her school concert, she must find a way to overcome her stage fright. This picture book by Hamilton actress Phillipa Soo and her sister-in-law Maris Pasquale Doran is sure to fuel all of the aspiring performers out there.

‘Weirdo’ by Tony Weaver Jr., illustrated by Jes and Cin Wibowo

This heartwarming graphic novel follows 11-year-old Tony, who is an outcast at his middle school because he loves comic books and anime. After a traumatic event, Tony comes to see the importance of self-confidence — and becoming his own hero too. Weirdo is a meaningful read for anyone who may feel like they don’t belong.

‘Alice in a Winter Wonderland’ by Jan Brett

What if Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland took place in the Alaskan tundra? This gorgeous picture book retells the Lewis Carrol classic, perfect for cozy, cold-weather reading. And don’t worry — beloved characters like the White Rabbit and the Cheshire Cat still make an appearance.

‘Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder’ by Dav Pilkey

One of today’s most popular book characters, Dog Man, is back in a new adventure. When Dog Man gets sprayed by a skunk, he’s exiled from town — and must team up with an unlikely partner to stop a whole new villain. The latest in the series makes the perfect stocking stuffer or introduction to the Pilkeyverse.

‘Christmas at Hogwarts’ illustrated by Ziyi Gao

All of the littlest Potterheads are sure to find some warmth in this new adaptation of the first book in the series, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Featuring favorite moments like seeing Hogwarts’ Great Hall decked out in holiday decorations, and Harry and Ron opening presents on Christmas morning, this one is a magical story to share.

‘The Snow Thief’ by Alice Hemming, illustrated by Nicola Slater

Beloved characters Squirrel and Bird navigate winter together in this new book. Squirrel has never seen snow before, and doesn’t understand why it disappears as well. This book, which teaches young readers about the change of seasons, is as educational as it is entertaining.

‘Accidental Demons’ by Clare Edge

Bernadette Crowley, also known as Ber, comes from a long line of witches. When Ber is diagnosed with diabetes, however, she learns that every time she tests her blood sugar, demons accidentally slip into the human dimension — and it’s up to Ber and her sister, Maeve, to stop them. This fantastical book is a great escape for young readers over holiday break.