Celebrate National Read a Book Day: Fresh Picks to Inspire Young Readers
September 6th marks National Read a Book Day, a perfect opportunity for parents, teachers, and caregivers to ignite a love for reading in the lives of children and teens. Whether you're a parent creating a cozy story time routine or a teacher curating your classroom library, this day is all about putting amazing stories into eager hands.
To help celebrate, here are some of the most popular and recently released books for various age groups. From picture books to middle grade adventures to young adult page-turners, there is something to engage even the most reluctant reader.
For Younger Readers (Ages 3–7)-Read Alouds both Children and Parents will Enjoy:
"The World and Everything in It" by Kevin Henkes (2024)
This beautiful picture book by beloved author Kevin Henkes blends gentle prose with soothing illustrations. It’s a quiet reflection on the world around us, making it a lovely read for bedtime or classroom mindfulness time.
"This Book Is My Best Friend" by Robin Robinson (2024)
A playful, imaginative story about a child and their favorite book makes for a perfect Read a Book Day! It celebrates the joys of reading, imagination, and friendship with charming illustrations and humor.
For Emerging Independent Readers (Ages 6–9)
"Cat on the Run in Cat of Death!" by Aaron Blabey (2023)
From the creator of The Bad Guys, this laugh-out-loud early chapter book series is ideal for reluctant readers. Fast-paced and funny, it follows a celebrity cat turned fugitive where chaos and comedy ensue!
"Unicorn Academy: Lyra and Misty" by Julie Sykes (2024)
This spin-off from the Unicorn Academy series continues to be a hit with kids who love magic, animals, and fantasy. It’s short, sweet, and full of sparkle making it perfect for early readers building confidence.
For Middle Grade Readers (Ages 8–12)
"The Last Kids on Earth and the Monster Dimension" by Max Brallier (2024)
The latest installment in the bestselling Last Kids on Earth series is packed with monsters, laughs, and post-apocalyptic fun. A great pick for adventurous readers and fans of illustrated fiction.
"The First State of Being" by Erin Entrada Kelly (2024)
This thought-provoking novel by a Newbery Medalist winner blends science fiction with historical fiction, telling the story of a boy in 1999 who meets a mysterious visitor from the future. A heartfelt exploration of change, identity, and hope.
For Teen Readers (Ages 13+)
"House of Roots and Ruin" by Erin A. Craig (2023)
A gothic, atmospheric YA fantasy novel with family secrets and a haunting romance. This sequel to House of Salt and Sorrows is perfect for teens who love darker fairy tale vibes.
"Chaos Theory" by Nic Stone (2023)
A compelling contemporary novel that dives deep into mental health, friendship, and navigating life’s chaos. Nic Stone’s honest and empathetic storytelling continues to resonate with teen readers everywhere.
Tips for Parents and Teachers on National Read a Book Day
- Make it a shared experience: Read aloud together, even with older kids. Shared reading fosters connection and encourages discussion and deep reflection.
- Create a reading-friendly space: Whether it's a quiet corner in the classroom or a cozy nook at home, setting the mood makes reading more inviting.
- Let kids choose: Empower children to pick books that spark their interest, whether it’s graphic novels, nonfiction, or fantasy.
- Talk about books: Ask open-ended questions and encourage kids to share their thoughts. What did they love? What surprised them? What lesson could they take away from the book?
Let’s Turn the Page Together
National Read a Book Day is more than another day on the calendar — it's a reminder that stories have the power to shape young minds, build empathy, and open doors to new worlds. Whether you’re guiding a classroom or curling up on the couch with your child, take today to dive into a great book and pass on the joy of reading. There is a world of possibilities waiting to be discovered with each turn of the page. Happy reading!