As the year winds down and the holidays near, there’s no better time to curl up with a good story — especially for young readers. This December is shaping up to be a magical month for children’s literature, with a delightful lineup of new releases. These upcoming titles are sure to bring warmth and wonder to readers of all ages. Whether you’re searching for the perfect holiday gift or to inspire a lifelong love of reading, this month’s newest stories are worth adding to the bookshelf.
Early Readers
Love Finds a Way by Vern Kousky (Dec 16)
Determined to keep the group of friendly squirrels from giving him affection, Oscar the bird gets a guard dog named Brutus. Brutus soon becomes a very good guard dog, on top of keeping Oscar company and maybe teaching him about love.
Ten Little Leprechauns by Molly Murphy, Illustrated by Howard McWilliam (Dec 2)
Count down from ten with these delightful leprechauns as they chase after rainbows while stirring up trouble. Young readers will have a blast preparing for St. Patrick’s Day while counting these lucky leprechauns.
I Love You Alotl, I Love You So Much by Giselle Angel, Illustrated by Su Youn Lee (Dec 16)
The perfect way to say “I love you” is with this adorable axolotl-themed picture book! The star of the book is a crowd-favorite axolotl featured on every page and is best shared with friends, little ones, and even someone special.
A Stickler Valentine by Lane Smith (Dec 2)
Stickler is a unique creature made of sticks and wants to share Valentine’s Day sticks with his friends, but none of them seem interested. Crow prefers shiny treasures, Beaver likes funny cards, and Wolf finds the sticks too small to chew. Even Cat refuses a Valentine stick, leaving Stickler to wonder if Valentine’s Day is really about what others love instead. With that, he comes up with the perfect gift for Cat. It’s a heartwarming story that celebrates thoughtfulness, friendship, and the many ways we show love.
Sparkles for Sunny: A Lunar New Year Story by Sylvia Chen, Illustrated by Thai My Phuong (Dec 2)
The Lao family lives by four rules: make what you can, get good deals, share extras, and never waste anything. That’s why every Lunar New Year, Sunny ends up wearing a hand-me-down qípáo from one of her sisters. This year, she dreams of something that feels uniquely her own. Sparkles for Sunny delivers a warm and funny story about creativity, family, and finding a way to shine while staying true to tradition.
Elementary Readers
Asterwood by Jacquelyn Stolos (Dec 30)
Family secrets, friendship, and magic come to life in this thrilling fantasy adventure about a little girl who uncovers a hidden world behind her home — and the truth about her own mysterious legacy. Madelyn has always been content with her simple life of books, warm meals, and walks in the woods with her father. But when a strange child leads her down a forbidden trail into the wondrous realm of Asterwood, she discovers a place filled with magic, danger, and people who already seem to know her name. Joined by a talking cat and two unlikely companions, Madelyn sets off on an unforgettable journey through a world whose secrets may hold the key to saving them all.
At the Speed of Gus by Richard Scrimger (Dec 2)
At the Speed of Gus is a fast, funny, and heartfelt story about seeing the world differently and embracing the unique ways our minds work. Augustus Constantine — better known as Gus — has ADHD, and while his quick-thinking brain can be his greatest strength, it also tends to land him in trouble. After one too many jokes during morning announcements, Gus earns a three-day suspension and decides to visit his sister at college instead. But when his thoughts spiral out of control during the ferry ride, reality starts to blur, and Gus must rely on those who love him most to help him find his way home.
The Stolen Songbird by Judith Eagle, Illustrated by Jo Rioux (Dec 2)
When Caro Monday’s adventurous mother vanishes, she’s sent to live with her stern great-aunt and secretly brings along her mischievous rabbit, His Nibs. But life at her aunt’s house takes an unexpected turn when Caro discovers a stolen painting hidden in her mother’s suitcase. Suddenly caught up in a dangerous art-heist mystery, Caro and her friends — a clever knitter, a budding fashion designer, and a streetwise wanderer — must solve the puzzle before the thieves catch up to them.
Middle Grade
Trigger Warning: Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel contains heavy topics like racial violence, gun violence, and police brutality. Please read all trigger/content warnings before purchasing.
Ghost Boys: The Graphic Novel by Jewell Parker Rhodes, Illustrated by Setor Fiadzigbey (Dec 2)
Twelve-year-old Jerome is tragically killed by a police officer who mistakes his toy gun for a real one, leaving him to witness as a ghost the pain his death causes his family and community. In the afterlife, he meets Emmett Till, another young victim of violence, who helps him understand the deep roots of hatred that led to his own killing. Jerome also encounters Sarah, the police officer’s daughter, who struggles to come to terms with her father’s actions. Adapted from the original book into a graphic novel with striking illustrations by Setor Fiadzigbey, Ghost Boys powerfully explores race, injustice, and the enduring impact of prejudice on generations.
Keeper of the Lost Cities The Graphic Novel Part 2: Volume 1 by Shannon Messenger, Illustrated by Valeria Tenaga Romanazzi, Adapted by Celina Frenn (Dec 2)
After discovering she’s an elf, 12-year-old Sophie Foster leaves her human life behind to start anew in the magical Lost Cities. Life there is full of wonder — new friends, fantastic creatures, and powerful abilities — but also overwhelming challenges, including struggles at Foxfire Academy and uncertainty about her future. As strange memories and mysterious events begin to surface, Sophie starts to suspect that dangerous secrets have been hidden inside her mind. This vibrant graphic novel adaptation of Keeper of the Lost Cities brings the second half of Sophie’s first adventure to life with stunning artwork and thrilling twists.
With so many captivating books to hit shelves this December, young readers are in for a treat! These books offer more than just entertainment — they spark imagination, teach lessons, and create lasting memories. Don’t miss the chance to discover these new favorites and share the magic of reading.
Check out our article on children’s books all about pirates for some more literacy fun.
Check out our bookshelf for more new releases for 2025 on Bookshop.
