Find the next book your child asks to read again
Practical guides to children’s books for every age, with a special shelf for Irish authors and stories as Gaeilge.
Pick a book by looking at the shelf
Choose a spine. Each one opens a guide with hand-picked titles, why they work, and how to share them.
What makes a good children’s book?
The best children’s books are the ones a child asks for again tomorrow. That usually comes down to a few simple things: language that sounds lovely out loud, pictures that reward a second look, and a character a child cares about.
We pick books that read well aloud, hold up to the fiftieth reading, and suit the age they are written for. Our guides give you the author and illustrator, a plain-English reason each book works, and a tip for sharing it.
Whether you are buying a first board book, stocking a classroom shelf, or looking for something to tempt a reluctant reader, start with the age guides and follow the links.
Irish books for Irish children
Ireland has a long, proud tradition of storytelling, and today’s Irish writers and illustrators are among the most loved in the world. Children here can grow up with stories about places, words and characters that feel like home.
Reading tips that really help
You do not need to be a performer or a teacher to raise a reader. Five minutes of cuddling up with a book beats a lecture about reading every time. These guides keep it simple.
- How to read aloud to childrenVoices, pauses, questions, and what to do when they will not sit still
- How to choose a children’s bookAge bands, reading level, and what to check before you buy
- How to help a reluctant readerGentle, practical ways to turn “I hate reading” around
- Build a home library on a budgetSecond-hand finds, swaps and the best things in life that are free
- Children’s books and your local libraryJoining, borrowing, digital loans and summer reading
Frequently asked questions
What age should children start reading books?
From birth. Babies love the sound of a familiar voice, and sturdy board books with bold pictures are a good start from the first few months. Reading together every day builds language long before a child can read alone.
How do I choose a book for my child’s age?
Treat the age on the cover as a guide, not a rule. Pick a topic your child already loves, read the first page together, and see whether the words and pictures feel comfortable. Our books by age guides list tried-and-tested options for every stage.
How long should I read with my child each day?
There is no magic number. Many educators suggest around 10 to 20 minutes of shared reading a day, but a regular habit matters more than the exact length. A short story every night is better than a long session once a week.
Are there children’s books in Irish?
Yes. Irish-language publishers such as An Gúm and Futa Fata produce picture books, early readers and novels, and many popular English-language stories have been translated into Irish. See our guide to Irish-language children’s books.
Where can I get children’s books for free in Ireland?
Your local public library is the best place to start. Membership is free, and many libraries also lend ebooks and audiobooks through apps such as BorrowBox. Read more in our guide to children’s books and your local library.
When should my child move from picture books to chapter books?
When they can follow a longer story and want to know what happens next. There is no need to leave picture books behind, though. Many older children still enjoy them, and reading chapter books aloud to your child is a great bridge.