We’ve selected some wonderful reads for the Easter holidays. There’s something for everyone, from babies to adults and the homemakers.
Sit back this Easter and enjoy some downtime with our recommended reads.
Find other recommended reads here.
Reads for the littlies
That’s Not My Dog, an Usborne touchy-feely book.
(Random Penguin House)
A fun learning experience for babies and toddlers. It will teach them about dogs and the feel of (and the words to describe) dog’s ears, tongue, paws and tummies. Each page has tactile patches for children to experience the different textures.
Reads for ages 3–6
Love from Dr Seuss
(Jonathan Ball Publishers)
“From there to here, from here to there, I love you everywhere”, this is just one of the delightful lines in this sweet collection of verse celebrating love and happiness from Dr Seuss. It features Cat in the Hat and many of Dr Seuss’ other delightful characters. Although recommended for younger readers, 3+, adults will love it too!
A Horse Called Now, Ruth Doyle
(Jonathan Ball Publishers)
A reassuring story about overcoming worries and living in harmony. Now is a strong yet gentle horse who enjoys the wonders of nature. But when her animal friends fear the other unknown creatures around them, they get worked up. Now calms them all with her words of wisdom. When a storm breaks out, Now gets them all to safety in the barn, where they come face to face with their perceived foes. With Now’s gentle guidance, they learn they have nothing to fear. This story will help children who suffer anxiety and fear the unknown. Recommended for ages 3+.
The Hugasaurus, Rachel Bright
(Jonathan Ball Publishers)
A story that gently deals with emotions like loneliness, sadness and nervousness, it will help children understand the importance of kindness and how it can change lives. This joyful book of rhyme tells how a little dinosaur ventures into the world and tries to make friends, but quickly becomes overwhelmed when the dinosaurs start fighting. How will Hugasaurus broker peace and bring everyone together? Suitable for ages 4–6.
Enid Blyton’s Famous Five Adventures: Five and the Missing Prize, Sufiya Ahmed
(Jonathan Ball Publishers)
This newly created short story book is based on the famous Famous Five series, written by acclaimed British Author Enid Blyton. It introduces the five children, Julian, Dick, Anne and George, and their dog Timmy, to younger readers (ages 5–8). The Five are involved in a mystery when the first prize in the raffle at the village show goes missing and they set off to retrieve it.
Reads for ages 7–10
The Speedy Six Olympics, Roslynne Toerien
(Random Penguin House)
A competition featuring Africa’s wildlife? That’s what the Animal Olympics is all about. Creatures of all kinds, from speedy sprinters to graceful fliers, came together to discover who is the fastest in the land. Amid arguments as to the fairness of the event, the animals learn from Wise Owl that each of them has unique qualities and talents, and they learn to celebrate and respect each other strengths. Packed with fascinating facts about animals, this book teaches about the diverse animal kingdom, while also sharing lessons for young readers, aged 7–9, about overcoming obstacles and embracing differences and their unique gifts.
Danny the Champion of the World, Roald Dahl
(Random Penguin House)
An old favourite from the pen of one of the greatest storytellers, this is the story of a young boy who lives in a gypsy caravan with his father, a wonderful storyteller. One day, Danny discovers that his father has a big secret – he’s an illegal poacher, but so too are most of the village. Danny and his father join forces to topple the nasty Victor Hazell, a stereotypical capitalist. The story explores the relationship between father and son, their zest for life and how they work together to overcome adversity. Recommended for 7–10 year olds.
A powerful book for adults
Day, Michael Cunningham
(Jonathan Ball Publishers)
This intriguing book provides an intimate and detailed observation of the lives of a family in a Brooklyn apartment. It focuses on one specific date in April over three years and reflects how their lives change over that time. An interesting platonic love triangle is at the centre of the book – both Isabel and her husband Dan consider Robbie, Isabel’s gay brother who also lives in their apartment, their closest friend. Being younger and more of a dreamer, Robbie causes the characters to examine their feelings and shortcomings and reflect on how they impact each other. This book exposes the contrasts between the family and the connections they’ve built, examines love of many kinds, the fears and realities of growing older and learning to go on. It is a read both moms and dads will enjoy.
Reads for the homemakers and bakers
Thrift Your Life, Heidi Ondrak
(Jonathan Ball Publishers)
A no-nonsense guide on how to change your habits to weather financial storms. These practical hacks and tips, ranging from the well-versed to the outrageous, will show you how to save money and build resilience. There are planners and budget templates and checklists to help you transform and manage your finances. While many of the resources and prices quoted are UK-specific, the book is filled with myriad ways to help you save money. It should be kept for reference and to consult whenever you find your budget under strain. Pass it down to younger generations; the advice will never date.
Happiness in a Mug Cake, Kate Calder
(Jonathan Ball Publishers)
This recipe book contains recipes for 30 cakes to make in a mug in minutes. There’s something for every mood and flavour preference, even those who fancy eating a tipple in their cake. Satisfy your sweet tooth with super tasty treats packed with flavours, such as mint chocolate or white chocolate and blueberry, or try an old-fashioned apple crumble. Whatever your mood there’s a cake for you.
Find out the benefits of reading daily.
