Picture books we're looking forward to in 2025!

Jackie Kay's debut picture book, illustrated beautifully by Jill Calder, tells the tale of a little girl called Shona, whose parents tuck her into bed every night and sing familiar Scots folk songs to her. Coorie Doon is the perfect bedtime story, with its lyrical text and dreamlike illustrations – but it's also a celebration of generational love and family, and traditions and songs that stand the test of time. Out now!

A young child tries to unravel the mystery of falling asleep in his own house and waking up at his aunt’s the next day. This sweet picture book is all about an experience that may seem familiar to many children and parents. How many times has your little one fallen asleep in the car, or on the sofa, and woken up tucked up into their own bed? And how do they get there? A lovely bedtime story for curious little ones. Coming in March 2025.

This lovely touch-and-feel book is wonderfully accessible for all children. Featuring sensory elements, high contrasts, keywords in sign, braille and bright, engaging illustrations, little ones will love to play along. Coming in March 2025.

One night, there is a crash outside Mr and Mrs Li’s house. When Mr Li goes to investigate, he discovers three very big, very blue creatures who insist they are ‘definitely human’. This book is a wonderful story about kindness, diversity and what it means to be human. It is a lot of fun with fantastic illustrations, and is a real celebration of the kindness of humans who help each other out – no matter who they are. Coming in March 2025.

Mr Rabbit loves carrots. He plants the seeds to grow a new crop and talks and sings to them every day. But wait, what’s this?! One of them has come to life! Mr Rabbit isn’t sure about this boisterous new carrot, but he soon grows to love his companion. A quirky story about the uplifting power of friendship from the 2023 Klaus Flugge Prize winner. Coming in April 2025.

This gender-flipped version of the classic legend will inspire a strong sense of justice in readers. The vibrant picture book follows Robin as she courageously works to outsmart her old foe, the greedy Sheriff of Nottingham! Told alongside Woollvin’s unique illustrations, Robin’s brave mission to stand up for others is a brilliant adventure story to share with your little heroes. Coming in June 2025.

Can you tell a tale of love in just ten words? Joseph Coelho certainly can! Each page in this book tells a tale of love; between siblings, family, romantic love, healing love, love of nature, music, pets, objects and more. All are stunningly, beautifully illustrated by 20 talented people, whose self-portraits you can see at the beginning. It is so lovely to see a book which showcases the illustrators as much as the author. A book to inspire and to be cherished. A book to love. Out now!

Kwesi is nervous about trying to swim – but with Nana Ruby and the sea creature Mami Wata’s help, he overcomes his fear (and so does Nana Ruby). This gorgeous picture book mixes folklore and history with themes that are likely familiar to many children, including conquering your fears and intergenerational love. Coming February 2025.

Brenda’s owner loves dressing her up, making her wear silly costumes and even learning handwriting! Since Brenda is a cat she isn’t too impressed. When a bossy little girl moves in next door and takes a shine to Brenda’s owner, will the fed-up cat finally get her revenge? A brilliantly fun caper that will have everyone rooting for Brenda. Coming March 2025.

Taking care of dragons can be a tricky business! This helpful book will guide you through the ups and downs of pet ownership. . . just don’t forget to have a fire extinguisher handy. From washing and grooming (don’t wash them) to feeding (keep your other pets out of reach), every potential mishap is covered. Perfect for exotic animal owners and anyone planning to keep a dragon for a pet! Coming July 2025.