The bookworm: a novel creature, with only the best intentions, yet one that may bring despair to those expected to keep them in constant supply of books! We’re well acquainted with the appetite of these wonderful readers, and often asked about what we recommend to keep them well fed. Here, one of our specialist booksellers, Holly, has collected some of her best recommendations for voracious junior fiction readers. All of these series have been measured up against the standards of our well-read book clubs & youth contributors at Paper Bird, so you can be sure they’re great books.
Junior Fiction at Paper Bird is best suited to readers from 6 through to 8.
The adventures of Tashi were ones that entranced me as a child, and continue to do so today. They’re perfect for new readers, with large font, illustrations, and short chapters. There are 32 Tashi books in total, so once you get started, there’s plenty to go through!
This beautiful series is by the talented Briony Stewart, who was a long-time resident of Paper Bird, and award-winning author/illustrator. The Kumiko series is great for new and advancing readers, and it’s got all the ingredients for a perfect fantasy – dragons, adventures, night-time escapades, and lots of beautiful illustrations. There are three books total in this series.
Need an adventure into the bush? Dive into this adventure – it’s all about disconnecting from technology and discovering yourself (among all the stinking-hot, snake-filled scrub, of course). There’s two more adventures to be found, too: To the Lighthouse & Beneath the Trees. Each book dives into a different story with new characters, but are all linked by adventure & fantastic writing.
This is a tender novel about family, love, loss, and home – and one that is part of a magical and award-winning series by Glenda Millard. The Kingdom of Silk series is accompanied by dreamy illustrations from Caroline Magerl. There are 7 books to discover (and we think you’ll want to read them all).
I’m very much a fan of the exceptionally inquisitive Miss Ottoline Brown and her partner in crime, Mr. Munroe. They inhabit the excellent Ottoline series, solving puzzles and crimes. This series is filled with black and white illustrations from the masterful Chris Riddell. There’s four books to find & devour!
This series is an affirming slice-of-life series, featuring friends, school, and happiness. It’s beautifully written and illustrated, and part of a seven book series (Dani).
P.S. Not finding the right book? Get in touch! We’re specialist booksellers, and we have lots of knowledge and expertise to share.