The Penguin Hotline Recommends: Children’s Book Gifts

One of the latest books in the beloved Llama Llama series follows Llama Llama as Mama Llama teaches him how to clean up! The perfect gift for both fans of the series and newcomers! (Ages 2-5)

Author Drew Daywalt and illustrator Oliver Jeffers are back with another installment in the Crayons series! This time, readers get to see how Duncan, the crayons, and their families celebrate the holidays. A truly unique book, it includes letters from the crayons, games, ornaments, and more! (Ages 3-7)

Paul McCartney’s picture book is sure to be a hit with young readers, as he introduces them to Grandude — an explorer who takes his four grandkids on a one-of-a-kind adventure around the globe. (Ages 4-6)

Jan Brett’s classic belongs on every child’s bookshelf! Little Teeka is charged with readying the reindeer for Christmas Eve; but when her too-harsh methods don’t work, she realizes she’ll have to try something different. (Ages 4-8)

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor draws from personal experience to write this picture book about being different — and accepting and embracing those differences! With beautiful illustrations by Rafael López, your child is sure to love this one. (Ages 4-8)

In Adam Grant and Allison Sweet Grant’s new book, a mysterious gift box is looking for someone to open him! But no one seems quite deserving. This clever book about generosity is perfect for the holiday season. (Ages 5-8)

A new installment in the Ordinary People Change the World series, your young reader can learn all about Marie Curie — the first woman to win a Nobel Prize. Full of fun facts, this book is a great introduction into nonfiction. (Ages 5-8)

A new book in the Wonder universe, R.J. Palacio tells the story of Julian’s Grandmère, Sara. When a boy Sara shunned helps her Jewish family hide after the Nazis occupy her French village during World War II, she learns the cost of kindness. (Ages 8-12)

This debut follows outer space and science fiction-loving Ebony-Grace, who’s forced to move from Alabama to Harlem during the ‘80s. Though she’s overwhelmed by her surroundings at first, Ebony-Grace soon finds her new home might just be the place for her. A great gift for middle grade readers. (Ages 10+)