It’s the perfect time of year to create magical memories of reading aloud together. Today we’re sharing our gift guide featuring some books that we think make great read-alouds.
Click on the covers to go straight to our online shop: or of course, visit your local bookshop. When you order you can add a note if you would like us to gift wrap and add a card/note.
If you’re in New Zealand, make sure to order by 17 December for our Christmas courier delivery, and orders over $100 receive free shipping.
Joy Cowley’s At the Bach brought back memories of times spent at our family bach on the shores of Lake Taupō at Motuoapa.
Time spent at a special family spot sharing books helps us all reset after a long year—reminding us that even when the going is tough, friendships and working together can help us find our own happy life.
— Shona
2023 bestseller for 1 to 5 years
For the whole family to read over and over
An evocative bedtime picture book that distils the essence of a family summer at the beach.
“An ideal bedtime story, where every word counts.” Magpies magazine
“A charming combo that could be become a classic for yet another generation of Cowley fans.” The Listener Best 50 Children’s Books 2023
“This book is full of the warmth of friends and family, the basics of the beach and the joy of a simple holiday home.” National Library of New Zealand, Best Children’s Books of 2023
‘Best of 2023’ for 1 to 3 years
For high-energy toddlers who enjoy a practical joke
A kind crocodile leaves his pond to see the world, in this fresh and playful board book from New York Times Illustrated Book Award winning author Leo Timmers.
“A diverting reminder that kindness comes in all shapes and sizes—and sometimes requires community.”
Publishers Weekly
Tried & true for 1 to 3 years
For an irresistible shared reading experience
An effortlessly interactive bedtime book in which children help little rabbit create a cosy, sleep routine.
“A wonderful interactive bedtime book for children and little rabbits.” Axel Scheffler, illustrator of The Gruffalo
“I LOVED tickle my ears. Such a gorgeous little book.” Meg Rossoff, award-winning children’s writer
Guaranteed to please for 7 to 9 years
For early readers who find the happy in everything
A New York Times Notable Book and first in the acclaimed series for beginning readers.
A sweet, funny illustrated chapter book about Dani, a young girl with a lot of optimism—even if sometimes life makes it hard to be happy.
“If only all early chapter books were this beautifully conceived.” The New York Times
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