It’s no secret that our lives have become increasingly attached to “glowing rectangles.” Whether it’s a smartphone for us or a tablet for the kids, the “digital hum” of daily life can feel inescapable.
I was just talking to a co-worker the other day about an argument I saw in a Facebook group about how poorly school are doing because many kids are not reading at grade level, and that more needs to be done about it. I can think of a great solution – have kids read!
In the school district I work in, reading is no longer mandatory. What happened to book reports and summer reading lists? Kids don’t read well because they spend their time attached to their tablets and no quality time reading.
There is something profoundly different about the weight of a paper page and the tactile experience of a cover compared to a cold, glass screen. There is nothing I find more relaxing than sitting on our balcony, enjoying the nice weather and reading a good book. A REAL book, one that I can touch and hold. I refuse to read digital books.
It’s never too early, or too late, to nurture a genuine love of reading, and sometimes the best thing we can do for our kids’ development (and our own peace of mind) is to initiate a “digital detox” and trade swipes to page turning. Find books that would interest your child. Read to them or set aside a specific time of day for your child to do some quiet reading.
Recent studies, including a 2024 meta-analysis, have highlighted what researchers call the “screen inferiority effect.” It turns out that when children read on screens, they tend to skim and multitask, which actually weakens their deep comprehension and memory retention. In contrast, physical books provide spatial cues, like how many pages are left in your hand, that help a child’s brain map out and remember the story. Even more amazing? MRI studies have shown that children who spend more time with physical books have stronger brain connections in areas responsible for language and cognitive control, while excessive screen time can actually hinder those same pathways.
To help you kickstart your next family reading session, I’ve rounded up a few fantastic new titles that were recently sent to me to review. From whimsical picture books for the little ones to engaging stories for the pre-teen crowd, here are some new books to help your family find their next favorite read.
First I have some books that would go great for Earth Day, which is on April 22, 2026.
Gigantic
Written by Rob Biddulph.
Gigantic is the smallest blue whale in the Atlantic Ocean. While the rest of his pod (including his boastful brother, Titan). Poor Gigantic feels like a bit of an outsider. He finds joy in small ripples and flips with his tiny sea creature friends (we should all learn from him – to find joy in the little things in life).
The story hits its stride when Titan’s overconfidence gets him into a literal bind by becoming beached on the sand. It’s a moment that proves physical size doesn’t dictate capability. Gigantic, alongside his small but mighty team, step up to show that “tiny and tough” and saves the day.
The rhyming text flows with a musicality, which both parents and children enjoy. What really struck me, though, was the vocabulary. Biddulph doesn’t shy away from rich words like “colossus,” “determined,” and “rotate,” making it a fantastic book for language building. The illustrations are beautiful with mulberry skies and deep turquoise waves that leap off the page. It’s a sweet, funny, and visually stunning reminder for kids (and adults) that the size of your heart is what truly counts.
This book is about self-acceptance, teamwork and courage. I guess you can include a bit of sibling rivalry in the mix too.
If This Were the World
Written by Stephen Barr and illustrated by AG Ford.
In this beautifully told story, a group of friends spend an afternoon reimagining our universe from the ground up. Through the simple but profound question, “If this were the world…”, they transform everyday objects and backyard spaces into a realm of endless possibility. It’s a celebration of how children use their IMAGINATION, without the use of a screen.
What makes this book a standout is the perfect marriage between Stephen Barr’s earnest, rhythmic prose and AG Ford’s lovely illustrations. Ford’s ability to capture light and expression gives the story a cinematic feel that holds a child’s attention. It’s more than just a story; it’s a gentle invitation for kids to look at their own surroundings and see the magic hidden in the mundane.
I love that this book encourages imagination and creativity, something I think many children are lacking these days thanks to too much technology in their lives. Adults can also learn a valuable lesson from this book.
10 Small Things I Can Do to Help My Planet
Written by Melanie Walsh
This engaging, interactive book breaks down the overwhelming concept of “saving the Earth” into ten simple actions. These are everyday actions that even the youngest children can do.
This book uses clever die-cut pages like a light switch that actually “flips” or a fridge door that closes. Kids always enjoy interactive books.
This book shows kids how turning off the tap while brushing their teeth or using both sides of a piece of paper makes a real difference. It’s a great introduction to sustainability that focuses on what children can do to help our planet.
If you’re looking for a way to talk about the environment without it feeling heavy or overwhelming, this is a great book to give your child. It makes “green living” fun. The bold, collage-style illustrations are visually stimulating, and the sturdy die-cut flaps make it a very tactile experience for little hands.
I especially love that the suggestions are practical and something a child can do when they finish this book such as going to to turn off a light or sort a pieces for recycling. It’s the perfect “first step” for raising eco-conscious kids.
Twelve Daring Grays: A Whale Migration Adventure
Written by Nora Nickmun and illustrated by Elly MacKay.
Follow the incredible 5,000-mile journey of twelve gray whales as they migrate from the warm lagoons of Mexico to the icy, food-rich waters of the Arctic.
This book highlights the high-stakes adventure that tracks the pod as they dodge predators, navigate shifting currents, and overcome human-made obstacles. Nora Nickum brings the science of migration to life by focusing on the bravery and endurance of these majestic “grays” in a way that feels truly epic.
I love the “paper-theater” art style of Elly MacKay. I also love that this book is educational without coming across as such.
This book is a truly wonderful reminder of just how vast the world us that exists outside our digital screens,
If your children loves ocean life, animals and/or real life adventures, this book is for them.
The following books are not necessarily for Earth Day, but are great reading options too.
Sockflea
Written by Laura Dockrill and illustrated by Eva Byrne.
A cute little elephant is going camping for the very first time and he doesn’t need to bring along any of his beloved “stuffies.” He’s five years old now and he doesn’t need them… or does he?
Fearful of the darkness and mysterious crunching sounds, the little elephant soon wishes he had a “stuffy” with him.
Enter Sockflea. Sockflea is just a rolled up pair of socks. Sockflea was sent the stuffies at home to be with their little friend. Will Sockflea turn the camping trip from scary to fun? You’ll have to read this adorable book to find out.
The cute illustrations, quirky characters and slapstick humor, make this book a genuine heart in a witty interactive romp. Brimming with personality, this playful picture book will charm young children test-driving their confidence while managing big emotions. Plus, kids will be looking closely at the tiny details, which is a great “anti-screen” exercise!
This is a book that parents will enjoy reading just as much as the kids. It’s quirky, fast-paced, and slightly irreverent in the best way possible. If your household has a “lost sock” basket that never seems to empty, this book will give your kids a funny, and surprisingly sweet, explanation for the mystery.
Disney Descendants: A Lost Revent
Written by Kalynn Bayron and illustrated by Asiah Fulmore
For the older kids and Disney Descendants fans, this new graphic novel takes readers back to the infamous Isle of the Lost. Set before the events of the original Descendants movie, the story follows Mal, Evie, Jay, and Carlos as they navigate a world without magic but full of mischief. When a mysterious “revenge” plot begins to unfold, the VKs (Villain Kids) have to rely on their wits and each other to figure out who is pulling the strings. It’s a fast-paced mystery that explores the complicated beginnings of our favorite VK squad.
If you have a child who is reluctant to put down the tablet, this is the book that will do the trick. Graphic novels are the ultimate “bridge” for the digital generation because the pacing is so visual and cinematic. The illustrations are sharp, vibrant, and full of attitude. It feels like watching a movie on paper.
The kids I work with (girls) are obsessed with the Descendants. I think I know every song from their movies because they are always listening to them.
The Shrew Detective
Written by Margi Preus and illustrated by Junyi Wu
In this charming mystery, we follow a sharp-witted (and perhaps slightly high-strung) little shrew who takes her job as a private eye very seriously. When a series of strange occurrences disrupts the peace of the woods, our tiny detective must use her keen senses and relentless determination to sniff out the truth. It’s a delightful “whodunnit” that proves you don’t need to be big to solve big problems.
This story feels like a classic noir mystery, just with more whiskers and acorns. Ha Ha.
The writing is clever and respects the intelligence of young readers, offering a plot that is genuinely engaging without being overly complex. This is the kind of book that encourages “slow reading” so kids can take the time to look for hidden details on every page. It’s a perfect pick for kids who love animals, mysteries, or simply a story that’s a little bit different from the usual shelf fare.
Puzzletopia
By various creators/contributors
This isn’t just a book; it’s a full-blown expedition for the brain. Puzzletopia transports kids to a vibrant, immersive world where the only way to move forward is by solving your way out. From intricate mazes and “spot the difference” challenges to logic riddles and hidden-picture quests, every page is fun to explore and solve.
If you are looking for the ultimate “boredom buster” for a car ride or a rainy afternoon, this is it.
What I love about Puzzletopia is that it gamifies the reading experience without needing a single battery or Wi-Fi connection. Even as an adult I have enjoyed doing some of these puzzles.
At the end of the day, no app or algorithm can replicate the feeling of a child finally “clicking” with a great story. Whether they’re laughing at the antics of an adorable little elephant or getting lost in the cinematic pages of a new graphic novel, these books offer a kind of focus and magic that a screen just can’t touch. If you’re ready to reclaim your family’s “quiet time” and swap the digital noise for some meaningful page-turning, any of these titles is a fantastic place to start.
You can find most of these new releases available right now at major retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. A few books are not published yet, so you should keep an eye out for them. I always recommend checking your local bookstore too, as there’s nothing quite like browsing the shelves in person. Whichever way you shop, the goal is the same: get these stories into those little hands and watch their imaginations take flight. Happy reading!
Kimberly
*I received free product samples in order to do this review. There was no compensation. The opinions expressed are my own and not influenced in any way.
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