Four Wonderful Picture Books for Children aged 6 to 12 years

 1. Liam's World of Trucks - by Liam Szydelko 

This picture book will inspire a child's dreams with the "World of Trucks". It is a heartwarming personalised storybook that celebrates curiosity, kindness and the courage to explore.  

A little truck visits work sites and meets brave fire engines, helpful rubbish trucks and joyful ice cream vans. This book tells the story that life is not always about picking the perfect job, but embracing who they are along the way. With vibrant illustrations and gentle life lessons, this beautifully written book makes a meaningful gift from a parent or grandparent who wants to encourage children's confidence and imagination. Perfect for bedtime, birthdays or any special moment, this story says, "You are enough, just as you are."

2. 'The Unchosen One' by Amy Sparks

 "A romp with tongue firmly in cheek." — Booklist

What happens when the 'Chosen One' decides to go on strike? "Tassie has always dreamt of a life of adventure and exploration. Instead, she’s stuck in the Citadel under the care of the Chief Steward, well away from any form of danger. 

One day the Wisest of the Wise Witches comes to visit and proclaims her the Chosen One, destined to save her people from death and destruction. Tassie realizes why she’s spent her life under lock and key. It was in order to fulfill a prophecy! Can she refuse the role and find an alternative? Along with her best friend, a griffin named Spin, she embarks on an hilarious epic quest through magical lands in a race against time.

This is a delightful and very funny picture book that children aged 6-12 will love. 

3. 'Elmer and the White Bear' - David McKee and illustrated by Marysia Milewski. Walker Books

When the ice starts to melt at the North Pole, a polar bear sets off on an adventure that takes him all the way to Elmer's jungle! When a mysterious white bear appears in the jungle, Elmer and Wilbur are keen to hear his story. He has come all the way from the north pole on a floating scrap of ice, and now he can’t find his way home. Luckily, Elmer and Wilbur have an idea! But what caused the white bear’s icy home to melt in the first place? That’s a much more puzzling question. 

With a gentle introduction to the themes of climate change, this is David McKee's (1935–2022) 31st Elmer story with artwork by his dear friend and fine artist, Marysia Milewski

 4. 'Elmer and the Bedtime Story' by David McKee

If your children have loved previous 'Elmer' books, then they will like this latest release. David McKee has won many awards for his children's picture books. Elmer the Elephant is looking after two baby elephants. But how will he get them to sleep?! Perhaps a good walk will do it? But as he walks past other elephants, everyone in the jungle seems to think he should tell them a bedtime story. Simple? No! They all have their own favourites! Poor Elmer.

David McKee  has won many awards, including winner of the Book Trust Lifetime Achievement award, and the 2020 British Book Awards Nibbies Illustrator of the Year. A wonderful book to read out loud or for children to read it themselves