The bulk of the holidays have come and gone, and now we’re off to the next chapter with a new year. 2025 gives us a chance to start fresh, whether we’re looking to try something different, shed old habits or start new ones– including reading. Invite the children in your life to start the year off with these new reads. Happy New Year and happy reading!
Nasty Names Are Hurtful: An Australian White Ibis in the City
Written and illustrated by Rick LeCouteur
The presence of human beings force Penny, an Australian White Ibis bird, to leave home. Once she’s moved to her new home, she encounters another problem– kids in school. They find new ways to shame Penny for being the new kid in school like calling her names, including “Bin Chick” and “Picnic Pirate,” all because she has unique scavenging habits that stand out in urban settings. With a chance to examine her life Penny realizes she’s only living in the city because their original home in the wetlands no longer exists. “Nasty Names Are Hurtful” shares lessons on acceptance, compassion and resilience. Recommended for ages 3-6.
Shoot for the Stars
By Star Harvey, former L.A. Parent intern, and illustrated by Aabshar Khan
We think about making a goal or wish on birthdays, shooting stars, lucky numbers and other rituals. But why not start the year with this kind of intention? “Shoot for the Stars,” written by a former L.A. Parent intern, follows a young girl named Star who wants to become a meteorologist someday. On her journey to becoming a meteorologist, she experiences doubts from those she meets along her way. Star’s grandmother’s support and encouragement help keep her on the path of determination. Star grows determined to stay true to her goal and learns how to navigate the positives and negatives that come with it.
The Famously Funny Parrott: More Bird-Brained Than Ever!
By Eric Daniel Weiner and illustrated by Brian Biggs
In “The Famously Funny Parrott” finds stories that will make the kids laugh out loud at all the shenanigans of Freedie Parrott and his butler and friend Peccary who are part of the Rubberwick world. Their numerous adventures include translating Morse code, a new kind of breakfast treat and finding themselves in front of the town judge. Recommended for ages 7 – 10.
Who Is Driving Your Bus?
By Shannon Sonnenberg and illustrated by Birdie Rook
As the new bus attendant Niko finds himself thinking about his emotions as if they are passengers on the bus who get on and off it all day. In his new role, Niko makes a mistake by not paying attention to who he lets drive the bus. “Who Is Driving Your Bus” invites parents, teachers and children to learn about social emotional skills and how to deal with them in healthy ways. Recommended for ages 5-9.
Our Cosmos: The Complete Guide to Space for Kids
By Professor Raman Prinja and illustrated by Suzie Mason
“Our Cosmos” is for children who are curious about the stars and beyond. Take a journey through numerous black holes, explore asteroids and nearby galaxies and learn about the role that stardust plays in all of it. A guide for the kids who can’t help but look up and marvel at the sky, “Our Cosmos” has a hint of wonder that will fill their hearts and minds. Recommended for ages 8-12.
For more book recommendations check out our December Book Corner.
