Gozzle by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie
When a bear finds a goose egg, it turns into more than just breakfast. Out pops a cute little gosling named Gozzle who thinks she can do everything bears can! But what will happen when she learns to fly? This fun and delightful picture book dives into family vibes, growing up, and changes along the way.  

“Leave the Trees, Please” by Benjamin Zephaniah
This poem really hits home about why trees and nature are super important. Zephaniah asks us to see just how valuable trees are and how they play a huge role in keeping our environment healthy. Instead of chopping them down, let’s protect these precious parts of nature. This picture book, released after Zephaniah passed, has a catchy refrain and colorful, swirly illustrations that inspire kids to care for trees and all the wonders of the outdoors.  

“Brown Bear Wood: It’s Busy Down in the Woods Today” by Rachel Piercey, illustrated by Freya Hartas
This charming picture book is perfect for kids aged 5 and up. It mixes styles you’d find in Richard Scarry and Brambly Hedge, offering detailed illustrations for search-and-find fun along with lovely poetry that makes reading a joy.  

“Boss of the Underworld: Shirley vs the Green Menace” by Tor Freeman
This graphic novel is a wild ride for ages 6 and up! It follows young Shirley as she falls through a manhole, makes pals with a giant cockroach, and encounters all sorts of bizarre challenges while hunting for the mysterious ruler of the Underworld. It’s hilarious and completely one-of-a-kind!  

“The Boy With the Big Decisions” by Helen Rutter
Fred’s parents usually make all the choices for him, like picking out his new school. But when he gets the chance to hop on the wrong school bus, he faces a big decision on his own. This creative story for ages 9 and up gives a fresh twist on Choose Your Own Adventure books, allowing readers to guide Fred through tricky choices about school, friendships, and being himself—leading to eight different endings!  

“The First Year” by Matt Goodfellow, with illustrations by Joe Todd-Stanton, published by Otter-Barry
Nate’s starting seventh grade and he’s got a bunch of challenges in front of him: a big new school, a tough teacher, an old enemy, and a weird new classmate. Can Nate keep his cool, and will his bond with his brothers stay strong through all the changes? This engaging verse novel is perfect for kids aged 10 and up. It’s a sequel to the well-loved The Final Year, but you don’t need to have read that to enjoy this one on its own!