Must-Read Children’s Books of 2024: A Parent’s Guide

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Finding the right book for your child can feel like a treasure hunt. Every year, numerous authors release works of fiction and nonfiction, enamoring children with content that will impact their creative growth. From whimsical picture books for toddlers to thought-provoking novels for teens, the year 2024’s picks for the best books are packed with adventure and imagination.

Let’s look at five must-read children’s books of 2024.

  1. The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman

In Gennifer Choldenko’s book, 11-year-old Hank finds himself in a grave pickle when his mom doesn’t come home for days. Hank has his spunky toddler sister, Boo, to look after with no food left. Hence, Hank decides to seek help from a mysterious emergency contact; however, asking for help stirs up major trouble: social workers, a new school, and terrifying questions about their mom. In the process, Hank fights to keep his little family together. 

  1. Orris and Timble: The Beginning 

Author Kate DiCamillo kicks off a riveting trilogy that narrates a tale of unlikely friendship! 

Meet Orris, a grouchy rat who loves solitude. Orris is caught off guard when a young owl gets trapped in his barn. The beautiful part about this book? Rats and owls are natural enemies. Hence, Orris must decide to follow his heart and help. 

This warm and funny tale is filled with kindness, humor, and the power of doing the right thing, even when it’s complicated. 

Carmen Mok’s expressive illustrations supplement the book’s beauty. This soon-to-be classic celebrates the magic of storytelling and the bonds we find in unexpected places. It’s perfect for early readers and families!

  1. Buffalo Fluffalo 

Meet Buffalo Fluffalo, a self-important, puffed-up buffalo who struts around with great confidence, grumbling and stumbling as he insists that he is indeed bigger, stronger, and tougher than everyone else. With his chest puffed out and an air of superiority, he believes he is the mightiest creature in the land. His exaggerated bravado makes him seem larger than life, but deep down, is he really as strong as he claims to be?

However, that intuition and pride will soon be tested—and quite literally washed away! A sudden, unexpected rain shower pours down from the sky, drenching Fluffalo from head to toe. As the water soaks through his thick coat, his once-fluffy, impressive appearance begins to shrink. Suddenly, the bold and fearless buffalo finds himself small, soggy, and unsure of himself. His tough exterior melts away, leaving him feeling vulnerable in a way he has never experienced before.

Luckily, his fellow animal friends are there to lift his spirits and remind him of an important lesson: true strength isn’t about looking big and powerful—it comes from within. They reassure him that he is wonderful just the way he is, rain or shine, big or small. This laugh-out-loud story, crafted by Emmy-nominated comedy writer Bess Kalb, is a heartwarming and humorous celebration of friendship, self-acceptance, and the joy of embracing who we truly are. Through witty storytelling and playful illustrations, young readers will enjoy Fluffalo’s journey and the valuable message it carries.

  1. Do Mommies Ever Sleep? 

Do Mommies Ever Sleep? by Kim Howard is the perfect gift for new moms and parents navigating the beautiful chaos of raising a little one. This delightful and humorous rhyming story is narrated from the perspective of an inquisitive baby who simply cannot understand why Mommy never seems to sleep. With a series of imaginative and hilarious guesses, the baby tries to uncover the mystery behind Mommy’s endless wakefulness.

The book is packed with clever humor, heartwarming moments, and relatable chaos that every parent will recognize. Through its engaging rhymes and playful illustrations, it captures the exhausting yet joyful reality of parenthood, making it an entertaining read for both children and adults. This laugh-out-loud tribute to moms everywhere is a must-read for new parents who need a lighthearted break, a good chuckle, and—most importantly—a comforting reminder that they are not alone in their parenting journey.

  1. Lucinda’s Tea Party 

Last but certainly not least, we have Cindy Moore’s beautiful children’s coloring book, Lucinda’s Tea Party. The book shows Lucinda taking a ceramics class to learn how to make clay usable. As the story unfolds, giggles are shared, some moments that make you go “whoopsie,” and an eventual tea party in the forest. The book is filled with beautiful illustrations, quirky characters, and more! Cindy Moore’s books live up to the hype, offering children a wholesome learning experience in a fun way. In 2025, this particular book should be on every parent’s list.

Stay tuned for more information. 

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