February 28, 2024 4 min read
Whether your children are voracious bookworms or love to dress up, get inspiration for the perfect World Book Day with our captivating children's books. Some of these fantastical characters have even appeared on our stage!
World Book Day is on Thursday 7 March 2024. It is a celebration of reading for pleasure, and it has become an important day in British Schools. Children across the country express themselves and dress up as their favourite book characters.
Ella Bella Ballerina is a charming collection of stories that teach children all about the magic of ballet. Little ones join Ella Bella on her adventures to the world of dancing swans and sleepy princesses.
With lovely stories and interesting facts about the history of each ballet, this delightful series is perfect for budding dancers aged 4-11.
Not sure what to dress up as for World Book Day? How about Ella Bella Ballerina! All you need for this simple costume is a pink ballet tutu, like this dress by Albetta.
Inspire your child with Fighting For Yes! the brightly illustrated biography of the iconic disability rights activist Judith Heumann. The educational picture book recounts the 504 sit-ins campaign, which raised awareness for the rights of disabled people in 1977. A true story, the book is perfect for children aged 5-9.
"From a very young age, Judy Heumann heard the word NO. When she wanted to attend public school, the principal said, "NO." When she wanted her teaching license, the New York Board of Education said, "NO." Judy and people with disabilities everywhere were tired of hearing “NO.”
Hans Christian Andersen’s collection of fairy tales is an essential part of any library and has plenty of ideas for World Book Day costumes. This beautifully illustrated edition of the tale has interactive elements to keep children entertained.
This timeless children’s storybook is perfect for children aged 8-12 and has thirteen fantastical stories to discover. From Princess and the Pea to Thumbelina, this book is sure to inspire.
If I Were King is a lovely read perfect for children aged 4+ that teaches little ones the importance of home. The story follows Thomas, who is tired of spending time with his irritating family and longs to escape into his books. But when he wakes up one day in a magic world where children are Kings and Queens, it’s not quite as wonderful as he expected.
Vividly illustrated by Chelsea O'Byrne, the book is a heart-warming read with plenty of imagination. Pair with the Mouse King Doll for a perfect gift.
‘If I were a king, I would be in charge! No more eggs and toast for breakfast, I’d eat CAKE! I would read books all day long, and wear a glittering gold crown that I’d never take off.’
The world of classical music has an abundance of magic and fantasy for children to discover, and the Story Orchestra series is the perfect introduction for mini maestros aged 3+. These books make learning about music fun and interactive, with push buttons that play the score as you read along.
If your child loves dance, why not opt for a lovely tutu dress by Albetta to channel their favourite performer with a Sleeping Beauty ballet costume?
‘A lively retelling, enriched by Jessica Courtney Tickle’s luscious illustrations – each spread is like an illuminated garden’. - The Guardian
Little People Big Dreams are a fun and informative collection of picture books about notable people. From Steve Irwin and Marie Curie to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, these books use quirky illustrations to teach and inspire children about key figures in history.
In this book, little ones can discover Mozart and how he changed classical music. This book is a charming biography of the classical composer’s life, and even includes extra facts and timelines.
'Inspired by his sister’s talent, little Wolfgang started playing the keyboard at just three years old. He soon mastered several instruments and was even writing his own musical compositions.'
In Curtain Up! Children enter the enchanting world of theatre in this book created for the Royal Opera House. In this tale, Figaro, the opera house’s resident cat, takes you on a tour behind the scenes and shows how the magic onstage is made.
With engaging stories and bright illustrations, Curtain Up! Is an award-winning book for curious minds and future performers.
‘Two of my grandchildren read this book with me - my 9-year-old grandson and his 5-year-old sister. Both were fascinated - there were things to interest both boys and girls, and they were delighted to discover connections to stories they knew, such as The Nutcracker.’
Yasmine Naghdi is a Principal of the Royal Ballet and is passionate about proving that dance is for everyone. This fun and inclusive book brings the joy of ballet to children aged 7-9 and includes a glossary and explanation of dance moves, so dancers and non-dancers alike can enjoy Ballet Besties.
Fully illustrated to bring the story on the page to life, this book is a wonderful new read for any young dance fans.