32 Best Children’s Books of 2024

With 2024 drawing to a close, it’s time to celebrate the 32 best children's books that have enchanted young readers this year.

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible stories that have captivated young readers throughout the year. From thrilling adventures and magical realms to heartwarming tales of friendship and self-discovery, this year has brought a remarkable array of children’s books that will inspire, entertain, and spark the imaginations of children and parents alike.

In this end-of-year review, we’ve rounded up 32 of the best children’s books that have stood out in 2024. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or simply seeking your next great read, these titles are sure to delight readers of all ages. Let’s dive into the best of the year!

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32 Best Children’s Books of 2024

As we reflect on an exciting year in children’s literature, discover the 32 best books of 2024 that have captured the imagination of readers everywhere.

1. Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Wrath of the Triple Goddess by Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Wrath of the Triple Goddess
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Rating: 4.7 / 5

Popularity: 3,021 Ratings

Age: 9 – 17 years

Rick Riordan returns with another thrilling addition to the beloved Percy Jackson and the Olympians series in Wrath of the Triple Goddess. Packed with humour, heart, and high-stakes action, this adventure sees Percy, Annabeth, and Grover tackling a unique and hilariously chaotic quest: pet-sitting for the enigmatic goddess Hecate. Naturally, things spiral out of control when a mishap unleashes magical mayhem in the form of rampaging, mystical pets across New York City. Riordan expertly balances witty dialogue, Greek mythology, and the enduring themes of friendship and resilience, making this a captivating read for both seasoned fans and newcomers. With a 4.7/5 rating and over 3,000 glowing reviews, this novel is a standout addition to children’s literature in 2024.

2. Maybe You Should Fly A Jet! Maybe You Should Be A Vet! by Dr. Seuss

Maybe You Should Fly A Jet! Maybe You Should Be A Vet
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 1,354 Ratings

Age: 3 – 7 years

Dr. Seuss once again sparks imaginations with Maybe You Should Fly a Jet! Maybe You Should Be a Vet!, an exuberant exploration of the world of work that invites young readers to dream big. From quirky to conventional, the book offers a delightful array of career possibilities—from pizza maker to wrestler—woven together with Seuss’s trademark rhyme, rhythm, and playful illustrations. Newly updated with vibrant artwork and an even wider variety of job options, this charming classic encourages children to think creatively about their future. Packed with Seussian humour and energy, it’s a joyous celebration of possibility that promises to inspire a new generation of dreamers.

3. Dog Man 13: Big Jim Begins by Dav Pilkey 

Dog Man 13: Big Jim Begins
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 952 Ratings

Age: 7 – 12 years

Dav Pilkey delivers another hilarious and heartwarming instalment with Dog Man 13: Big Jim Begins, where readers dive into the origins of their favourite characters while facing a new threat: the mischievous Space Cuties. As Dog Man and his friends unite to save the city, the story explores timeless themes of bravery, kindness, and persistence, all brought to life with Pilkey’s trademark humour and vibrant, full-colour illustrations. Packed with action and heart, this graphic novel continues to capture the imagination of readers young and old, proving once again why the Dog Man series remains a global phenomenon. With a film adaptation on the horizon, this latest adventure is a must-read for fans and newcomers alike.

4. Skandar and the Chaos Trials by A.F. Steadman

Skandar and the Chaos Trials
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 864 Ratings

Age: 10 – 12 years

A.F. Steadman delivers another spellbinding instalment in the Skandar series with Skandar and the Chaos Trials, a thrilling adventure filled with elemental magic, sky battles, and ferocious unicorns. Now in their third year at the Eyrie, Skandar and his friends face a series of perilous trials that test their bonds, friendships, and allegiances to the limit. Meanwhile, Skandar’s sister, Kenna, struggles with the isolation caused by her bond with a wild unicorn, and a dark discovery threatens the Island’s future. With high stakes, unexpected heroes, and ancient secrets, this captivating sequel combines action, heart, and fantasy in a way that will enchant readers of all ages. Perfect for fans of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, this gripping tale promises to keep you hooked until the final page.

5. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hot Mess by Jeff Kinney

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hot Mess
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Rating: 4.7 / 5

Popularity: 748 Ratings

Age: 9 – 12 years

Jeff Kinney brings another laugh-out-loud instalment to the beloved Diary of a Wimpy Kid series with Hot Mess. In this 19th adventure, Greg Heffley faces an unforgettable summer packed with family chaos, sweltering heat, and the confines of a tiny beach house. As tensions rise, Greg stumbles upon a culinary mystery: the secret behind Gramma’s legendary meatballs. Can he solve it while navigating the challenges of family dynamics, or will his meddling only create more mayhem? With its signature blend of witty cartoons and relatable humour, Hot Mess delivers another uproarious and heartwarming tale that readers of all ages will adore.

6. The Majorly Awkward BFF Dramas of Lottie Brooks by Katie Kirby

The Majorly Awkward BFF Dramas of Lottie Brooks
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 677 Ratings

Age: 10 – 12 years

Katie Kirby returns with another delightful instalment in the Lottie Brooks series with The Majorly Awkward BFF Dramas of Lottie Brooks. This time, Lottie navigates the highs and lows of being part of an official couple with Daniel, adopting a mischievous (and not quite toilet-trained) cockapoo named Pot Noodle, and juggling the emotional fallout of neglecting her best friends. Packed with relatable humour, heartfelt moments, and the charming chaos of teenage life, this story perfectly captures the challenges of balancing friendships, relationships, and family life. With Kirby’s witty writing and Lottie’s irresistible personality, this book is sure to resonate with readers and leave them laughing out loud.

7. A Mind Full of Murder by Derek Landy

A Mind Full of Murder
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 435 Ratings

Age: 11 – 14 years

Derek Landy launches a gripping new trilogy in the Skulduggery Pleasant universe with A Mind Full of Murder. Set in a world reborn after the universe’s end, darkness lurks beneath the surface of normality, and a masked sorcerer begins a chilling spree of murders, leaving cryptic puzzles in their wake. With time running out, Skulduggery Pleasant and Valkyrie Cain are thrust into a race to stop the killings, confronting the aftermath of an apocalypse they once failed to prevent. Packed with Landy’s signature wit, high-stakes action, and a touch of macabre humour, this thrilling instalment promises to captivate both long-time fans and new readers.

8. Amari and the Despicable Wonders by B.B Alston

Amari and the Despicable Wonders
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Rating: 4.7 / 5

Popularity: 360 Ratings

Age: 8 – 12 years

B.B. Alston delivers another spellbinding adventure with Amari and the Despicable Wonders, the highly anticipated third instalment in the Supernatural Investigations series. With war engulfing the supernatural world, Amari finds herself caught between two formidable enemies: Elaine Harlowe, the mind-controlling prime minister waging a vendetta against magiciankind, and Dylan Van Helsing, her former partner turned power-hungry leader of the League of Magicians. As both factions descend into chaos, Amari and her friends embark on a daring mission to locate the fabled Despicable Wonders—magical artefacts that could end the war but demand a heavy price. Packed with thrilling twists, high stakes, and themes of courage and sacrifice, this captivating sequel cements Amari’s place as a modern fantasy hero and will enchant readers aged 8 and up.

9. Jonty Gentoo: The Adventures of a Penguin by Julia Donaldson

Jonty Gentoo: The Adventures of a Penguin
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 239 Ratings

Age: 3 – 6 years

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler reunite to deliver another enchanting picture book with Jonty Gentoo: The Adventures of a Penguin. This heartwarming tale follows Jonty, a determined gentoo penguin, as he escapes from the zoo and embarks on an unforgettable journey to find his true home at the South Pole. Along the way, Jonty’s adventure takes an unexpected detour to the North Pole, introducing young readers to a vibrant cast of creatures and beautifully illustrated landscapes. With its captivating rhyming text, detailed artwork, and uplifting themes of bravery, friendship, and self-discovery, this delightful story is perfect for bedtime reading and is destined to become a treasured classic.

10. Unstoppable Us Volume 2 by Yuval Noah Harari

Unstoppable Us Volume 2
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Rating: 4.7 / 5

Popularity: 225 Ratings

Age: 8 – 15 years

In Unstoppable Us: Volume 2, Yuval Noah Harari continues the fascinating journey through the history of humankind, this time focusing on the pivotal events of the past 10,000 years that transformed society. Through vivid illustrations and accessible narrative, Harari explores how humans transitioned from hunting and gathering to controlling animals and shaping complex hierarchies, eventually leading to the creation of kings, kingdoms, and social structures that still influence us today. With insightful questions about power, fairness, and the world we live in, this captivating book brings history to life in a way that is both thought-provoking and engaging for young readers.

11. Astrochimp by David Walliams

Astrochimp
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Rating: 4.7 / 5

Popularity: 224 Ratings

Age: 7 – 11 years

In Astrochimp, David Walliams delivers a hilarious and heartwarming space adventure perfect for young readers. Chump the chimpanzee is known for his silly antics—making rude noises, eating bananas backwards, and using his little toe to pick his nose. When NASA selects him for a dangerous space mission, he unknowingly becomes the first chimp to orbit Earth. What could go wrong? As it turns out, everything. From space pirates to evil insects, Chump’s misadventures are both laugh-out-loud funny and full of heart. With vibrant illustrations that bring the wild space opera to life, this story is sure to captivate children aged 7-11 with its blend of humour, excitement, and a dash of cheeky charm.

12. InvestiGators Class Action by John Patrick Green

InvestiGators Class Action
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 199 Ratings

Age: 7 – 9 years

In InvestiGators: Class Action, the dynamic alligator detective duo Mango and Brash are back in a hilarious new adventure that takes them undercover as school kids. When chaos erupts in the classroom, the pair must solve the mystery of who is after Bucky, the mascot at Mango’s old school, before it’s too late. With their signature mix of fast-paced action, witty humour, and teamwork, the InvestiGators dive into a case that’s equal parts funny and puzzling. This comic book is a must-read for fans of zany detective stories and graphic novels, delivering plenty of laughs and positive lessons about problem-solving and perseverance.

13. Super Sleuth by David Walliams

Super Sleuth
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 159 Ratings

Age: 8 – 11 years

In Super Sleuth, David Walliams introduces a thrilling and humorous murder mystery starring the young detective Dilly and her trusty dog, Watson. Dilly, a fan of Sherlock Holmes, is eager to solve a real case, though her previous investigations have been limited to lost cats and missing biscuits. When she boards a luxury ocean liner bound for London, she soon discovers that the ship’s passengers are in danger, and the perfect setting for a murder mystery is unfolding around her. With a mix of suspense, wit, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, this story is packed with twists and turns, making it an exciting read for young mystery fans.

14. The Pandas Who Promised by Rachel Bright

The Pandas Who Promised
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 160 Ratings

Age: 2 – 6 years

In The Pandas Who Promised, red panda cubs Popo and Ketu live contentedly with their mother on a misty mountainside. As they grow, the sisters promise to stay close to home, but while Popo is happy in their cosy treetop nest, adventurous Ketu longs for excitement beyond the mountain. When Ketu sneaks away in search of adventure, Popo faces a difficult decision: should she keep her promise to Mama, or follow her sister to ensure her safety? This heartwarming and action-packed story explores themes of loyalty, courage, and self-discovery, beautifully illustrated by the creators of The Lion Inside.

15. Evenfall: The Golden Linnet by Alexander Armstrong

Evenfall: The Golden Linnet
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Rating: 4.5 / 5

Popularity: 139 Ratings

Age: 9 – 12 years

In Evenfall: The Golden Linnet, 12-year-old Sam’s life is turned upside down when he uncovers his family’s connection to a secret society, The Order of the Evening, protectors of a powerful ancient magic. With a formidable enemy on their trail, intent on finding the hidden palace of Bellasis and seizing its magic, Sam is thrust into a race against time. To save the world, he must reunite the Order, navigate dangerous journeys, and unlock his own untapped powers. This thrilling tale of magic, danger, and destiny weaves together mystery and adventure, as Sam’s courage will determine the fate of the world.

16. Greenwild: The City Beyond the Sea by Pari Thomson

Greenwild: The City Beyond the Sea
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 132 Ratings

Age: 9 – 11 Years

In Greenwild: The City Beyond the Sea, the enchanting sequel to Greenwild: The World Behind the Door, Daisy Thistledown embarks on a perilous journey across the ocean in search of her kidnapped mother. After sneaking aboard an expedition to the Amazon, Daisy and her friends are pursued by Grim Reapers and must navigate dangerous waters to find Iffenwild, a long-lost city shrouded in mystery. With a wild, untamed magic stirring beneath the waves, Daisy must summon all her courage and forge new alliances to uncover the truth and save the magical world. This captivating adventure is filled with heart, mystery, and eco-thrills, making it a must-read for young fans of fantasy and magic.

17. My Play Can Be… by Stephanie Seidler

My Play Can Be
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Rating: 5 / 5

Popularity: 127 Ratings

Age: 2 – 7 Years

My Play Can Be… takes readers on a delightful journey through the limitless world of a child’s imagination, celebrating the myriad ways children engage in play. From pretending to be superheroes on the playground to navigating lava in the living room, the book showcases how ordinary moments are transformed into extraordinary adventures through the power of imagination. With a heartfelt message, it underscores the importance of nurturing and valuing children’s play, highlighting how these everyday experiences are vital to their development and well-being. This beautifully crafted book is a poignant reminder of the significance of play in shaping young minds.

18. Cobweb by Michael Morpurgo

Cobweb
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Rating: 4.6 / 5

Popularity: 123 Ratings

Age: 8 years and up

In Cobweb, Michael Morpurgo weaves a powerful and moving tale inspired by the true story of the French Drummer Boy of Waterloo. Set in 1815, the story follows Cobweb, a young puppy who is separated from his beloved owner, Bethan, and sold to become a Drover’s Dog, tasked with herding sheep and cattle on a long journey to London. As the war with Napoleon nears its end, Cobweb’s journey takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a stranger with a remarkable tale. A poignant exploration of courage, kindness, and the impact of war, Cobweb highlights Morpurgo’s storytelling mastery, drawing readers into a world where humanity, animals, and heartbreak intertwine.

19. OSCAR – The dinosaur who saved Earth by J. J. Towers

OSCAR - The dinosaur who saved Earth
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Rating: 4.9 / 5

Popularity: 109 Ratings

Age: 7 – 12 years

Oscar – The Dinosaur Who Saved Earth combines adventure, humour, and an important environmental message in a fast-paced, fun story. When Luna and her friend Noah discover a hidden cavern containing dinosaur eggs, they inadvertently bring a group of intelligent, wise dinosaurs back to life. Led by Oscar, these dinosaurs quickly adapt to modern life, becoming hip hop fans, pizza lovers, and gaming enthusiasts. But they also carry a crucial warning: humanity must change to avoid extinction, just like their species did 66 million years ago. With their inventive minds, the dinosaurs create sustainable solutions, known as “Dino-Power,” to help pave the way for a brighter future. However, not everyone is happy with their message, and powerful figures from Big Oil and politics are determined to stop them. Oscar delivers an entertaining, hope-filled adventure that encourages young readers to think about sustainability while enjoying a wild, action-packed story.

20. The Girl Who Wasn’t There by Jacqueline Wilson

The Girl Who Wasn't There
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Rating: 4.6 / 5

Popularity: 94 Ratings

Age: 9 – 12 Years

In The Girl Who Wasn’t There, Jacqueline Wilson crafts a compelling story of family, imagination, and mystery. When Luna and her younger sister Aurora move into a real tower with their father, it feels like the start of a fairytale. However, the charm quickly fades as the tower needs repairs, their father struggles to find work, and a mysterious, forbidden room looms above. While Luna adapts to her new school and makes a friend, Aurora, with her vivid imagination, begins to spend time with an imaginary friend, Tansy. As Aurora’s belief in Tansy grows, Luna begins to wonder if there’s more to the tower’s secrets, including a possible curse. Wilson’s spine-tingling tale delves into the power of belief and the challenges of navigating a new life in an unfamiliar world.

21. The Whisperwicks by Jordan Lees

The Whisperwicks
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Rating: 4.5 / 5

Popularity: 93 Ratings

Age: 8 – 11 years

The Whisperwicks by Jordan Lees introduces readers to a world of magic, secrets, and adventure in this captivating new fantasy series. Eleven-year-old Benjamiah Creek, a firm believer in science and logic, finds his world turned upside down when he receives a mysterious gift: a doll that can transform into a bird. This unexpected gift leads him into Wreathenwold, a magical world full of dark secrets hidden within a labyrinth of streets. As Benjamiah embarks on a perilous quest alongside the determined and brilliant Elizabella, he must uncover the truth behind her brother’s disappearance and his own puzzling connection to this enchanted world. Lees’ debut combines heartfelt friendship, thrilling action, and rich world-building, drawing comparisons to the works of Philip Pullman and Neil Gaiman, and offers an exciting start to a series sure to captivate young fantasy lovers.

22. The Troublemakers by Tamzin Merchant

The Troublemakers
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Rating: 4.6 / 5

Popularity: 86 Ratings

Age: 8 – 11 years

In The Troublemakers, Tamzin Merchant returns to the enchanting world of the Hatmakers with a thrilling adventure that combines magic, mystery, and high-seas piracy. After uniting the Maker families and restoring faith in their magical abilities, Cordelia Hatmaker is unexpectedly accused of treason, setting off a daring escape from London. Alongside her father and friends, she embarks on a perilous journey aboard their ship, Little Bear, determined to uncover the truth behind a missing girl and clear her name. Their voyage takes them into the territory of the notorious Troublemakers, a pirate crew led by a fierce queen. This exciting tale is filled with danger, heart, and magical intrigue, making it an ideal read for fans of Nevermoor, A Pinch of Magic, and Harry Potter. Paola Escobar’s beautiful illustrations complement this sweeping story, which is sure to captivate readers looking for adventure and wonder.

23. Mission: Microraptor by Philip Kavvadias

Mission: Microraptor
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Rating: 5 / 5

Popularity: 75 Ratings

Age: 8 – 10 years

Mission: Microraptor is an action-packed, humorous adventure that combines the thrills of Jurassic Park with the wit of Wimpy Kid. When Finn and Milo fall behind their classmates during a school trip to the Alps, they unexpectedly discover an egg buried in ice. The egg hatches to reveal Arty, a microraptor brought back to life after 65 million years. As they attempt to protect their new prehistoric friend, they quickly find themselves pursued by dangerous scientists and a team of mercenaries. With a thrilling plot, survival skills, and a dinosaur companion, this exciting debut launches a new series full of humour, heart, and high-stakes adventure.

24. Dexter Procter the 10-Year-Old Doctor by Adam Kay

Dexter Procter the 10-Year-Old Doctor
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Rating: 4.5 / 5

Popularity: 72 Ratings

Age: 8 – 12 years

Dexter Procter: The 10-Year-Old Doctor by Adam Kay introduces readers to the astonishingly talented Dexter, a boy who, by the age of ten, is already working as a paediatrician at Lilydale General Hospital. From speaking at just four seconds old to earning 87 A-levels by the age of three, Dexter is clearly no ordinary child. Yet, despite his extraordinary abilities, he struggles to fit in, facing challenges like a school-wide illness and a bitter rivalry with his nemesis, Dr Drake. This laugh-out-loud and highly entertaining tale follows Dexter as he navigates his unconventional life, tackles medical emergencies, and tries to find his place in the world. Written by the record-breaking Adam Kay, this delightful and humorous series is filled with quirky moments, educational facts, and plenty of laughs, particularly for fans of gross-out humour.

25. The Royal in You by Jordan Raynor

The Royal in You
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Rating: 45 / 5

Popularity: 70 Ratings

Age: 3 – 7 years

The Royal in You by Jordan Raynor, the follow-up to The Creator in You, offers a hopeful and inspiring look at God’s heavenly kingdom. Through engaging rhyme and stunning illustrations, the book invites children to imagine a new Earth, where life is filled with joy, adventure, and all the things we love—animals, music, and meaningful work—without any of the sadness or brokenness of the current world. Drawing on Scripture, this picture book helps to transform the way children perceive heaven, highlighting it as a beginning rather than an end, and a place where God’s love will fill every part of life. With its message of hope and renewal, The Royal in You serves as an uplifting and thoughtful read for families of faith.

26. Turtle Moon by Hannah Gold

Turtle Moon
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 53 Ratings

Age: 8 years up

In Turtle Moon, Hannah Gold takes readers on an unforgettable adventure set in the heart of the Costa Rican jungle, following Silver Trevelon and her family as they seek healing at a turtle rescue centre. When Silver witnesses a rare sighting of a leatherback turtle nesting on the beach, the adventure takes a darker turn when the turtle’s eggs are stolen. Determined to solve the mystery, Silver and her new friends journey deep into the jungle, risking everything to save the eggs. Beautifully illustrated by Levi Pinfold, this gripping and emotional tale blends ecological awareness with a thrilling narrative, making it a must-read for fans of adventure and environmental storytelling.

27. Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm by Ash Bond

Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm
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Rating: 4.3 / 5

Popularity: 50 Ratings

Age: 8 – 12 years

Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm is an exhilarating middle-grade adventure that thrusts its young heroine into a world where myth and reality collide. When the portals between the Terran Realm and the Cosmic Realm mysteriously close, Peregrine Quinn’s life is turned upside down as her godfather, Daedalus Bloom, is kidnapped. Racing through Oxford, London, and the mysterious Under-Underground, Peregrine discovers that the creatures from Daedalus’s immortal tales are real—and they’re armed with laser blasters. With the help of her friends, including a dryad librarian and a faun, she must repair the portals and rescue Daedalus before an ancient evil is unleashed. This fast-paced story is packed with action, suspense, and mythical creatures, making it a perfect read for fans of Skandar, Percy Jackson, and Artemis Fowl.

28. Chronicles of Whetherwhy by Anna James

Chronicles of Whetherwhy
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Rating: 4.7 / 5

Popularity: 23 Ratings

Age: 9 – 12 years

Chronicles of Whetherwhy by Anna James opens the door to a captivating new fantasy series brimming with seasonal magic and adventure. In the world of Whetherwhy, magic is deeply tied to the changing seasons, and a rare few, known as Enchanters, possess the ability to harness all four. When Juniper discovers she is an Enchanter, she is sent to study at the prestigious Thistledown Academy, while her twin brother, Rafferty, follows her to the city and begins an apprenticeship at a bookbindery. As Juniper hones her magical skills, Rafferty becomes entangled in a secret society, and strange, dangerous creatures begin to stir. With magic, mystery, and hidden dangers around every corner, the twins’ journey brings them back together in unexpected ways, making this an enchanting start to a series filled with wonder and intrigue.

29. The Storm and the Sea Hawk by Kiran Millwood Hargrave

The Storm and the Sea Hawk
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 22 Ratings

Age: 9 – 11 years

The Storm and the Sea Hawk by Kiran Millwood Hargrave is the thrilling second instalment in the Geomancer trilogy, a captivating epic fantasy for fans of Philip Pullman and Katherine Rundell. Ysolda, accompanied by a rebellious princess and her faithful sea hawk, Nara, embarks on a perilous journey to the Drakken Peak in search of the legendary magic of the Geomancer. As they travel through dangerous landscapes, the stakes are higher than ever, with a powerful magic that could either save or destroy the world. Hargrave, known for her evocative storytelling in The Girl of Ink and Stars and Julia and the Shark, delivers a tale full of adventure, danger, and wonder, making this series a must-read for young adventurers and fans of beautifully crafted fantasy.

30. King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore

King of Nothing
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Rating: 4.8 / 5

Popularity: 18 Ratings

Age: 11 years and up

King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore is a hilarious and heartwarming teen comedy that explores the complexities of friendship and self-discovery. Anton, once the undisputed “king” of Year 9, finds his world turned upside down when his mother forces him to join a local activity group after he gets into serious trouble at school. Reluctantly joining, Anton is surprised to find himself bonding with Matthew, the school’s biggest outcast, after the latter saves his life. As their unlikely friendship grows, Anton begins to question his priorities—does he want to continue ruling the school, or is there more to life than his old reputation? Lessore’s witty storytelling and exploration of personal growth make this a must-read for teen readers, perfect for fans of Alex Wheatle, Jason Reynolds, and Patrice Lawrence.

31. Grimwood: Party Animals by Nadia Shireen

Grimwood: Party Animals
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Rating: 4.9 / 5

Popularity: 16 Ratings

Age: 7 years and up

Grimwood: Party Animals by Nadia Shireen is the fourth instalment in the wildly popular and hilariously anarchic Grimwood series. This time, Sharon the Party Crow has lost her groove after hosting three parties in a single day, and it’s up to her friends—Ted, Nancy, Willow, and the rest of the gang—to help her find her spark again. With teamwork, friendship, and a lot of dancing, they embark on a mission to reignite the party spirit in their forest. Full of dynamic illustrations, laughs, and heart, this book is perfect for readers aged 7 and up who enjoy madcap adventures and funny animal characters. Fans of Dog Man and Roald Dahl will find plenty to love in this energetic and delightful story.

32. Where to Hide a Star by Oliver Jeffers

Where to Hide a Star
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Rating: 5 / 5

Popularity: 15 Ratings

Age: 3 years and up

Where to Hide a Star by Oliver Jeffers marks a magical return to the world of The Boy, celebrating twenty years of captivating adventures. In this heartwarming new tale, the boy embarks on a thrilling rescue mission to the North Pole after his star goes missing. With the help of the Martian, he sets off on an exciting journey in search of his lost friend, only to discover that others, too, have longed for the companionship of a star. Filled with Jeffers’ signature blend of whimsy and warmth, this beautifully illustrated story explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the joy of imagination, making it a perfect read for both new and returning fans of The Boy series.

See book releases from 2024:

Or see our list of 25 Best Children’s Book Releases Coming in 2025.

Best Children’s Books of 2024

Summary

As we wrap up 2024, these 32 standout children’s books have captured the essence of the year’s most captivating stories. With an exciting range of genres and themes, they showcase the brilliance of children’s literature, offering everything from heartwarming tales to daring adventures. Each book on this list is a testament to the power of storytelling, sparking curiosity, creativity, and empathy in young minds. Whether a seasoned book lover or new to these titles, there’s no doubt that these selections will leave a lasting impact on readers for years to come.

Best Children’s Books of 2024

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