About childrensbooks.ie
A friendly guide to children’s books for Irish families, with picture books, first chapter books, Irish authors and tips for reading together.
childrensbooks.ie exists for one reason: to help children find books they love. Whether you are a parent choosing a bedtime story, a grandparent shopping for a birthday, or a teacher stocking a classroom shelf, our guides are here to make that easier.
What you will find here
- Books by age, from board books for babies to novels for twelve-year-olds.
- Irish authors and illustrators, plus books in Irish and Irish myths and legends.
- Topic guides on bedtime stories, books about feelings and gifts.
- Practical guides on choosing books, reading aloud, helping reluctant readers, building a home library and using your library.
How we choose books
We favour books that:
- Read well aloud, with language that has rhythm and flow.
- Suit the age they are written for, in theme, length and difficulty.
- Stand up to repeated reading, because children ask for favourites again and again.
- Reflect a range of voices, including Irish writers and illustrators, and stories in Irish.
- Have stood the test of time, or deserve to.
Every child is different, so treat our lists as a starting point. If a book is not right for your child, there are plenty more on the shelf.
Our artwork
The illustrations on this site are original artwork created for childrensbooks.ie. They feature invented characters, not characters from any published book. We do not reproduce book covers or text from books. Titles, authors and illustrators are mentioned for information, and every book belongs to its author, illustrator and publisher.
Independence
This site does not carry advertising or affiliate links. Our recommendations are based on what makes a good book for children, not on commissions.
A note on accuracy
We aim to be accurate and helpful, but editions, availability and details can change. Check with your library or bookshop for the latest information. Our guides offer general suggestions and are not a substitute for advice from teachers or healthcare professionals, particularly if you have concerns about your child’s reading or wellbeing.
Keep reading
Start with our books by age guides, or take a look at our reading guides.