Young Children’s Books to Add to Your Cart

2 days ago 6

For Readers

Do you have a young reader in your life? We have a handful of books to add to your reading list! Our Hidden Gems ARC readers loved the following young children’s books, and there is something for little bookworms of all ages in this list.


The Cat Who Chased Ghosts

The Cat Who Chased Ghosts by Nic Minnella

With a 4.6 average star rating, The Cat Who Chased Ghosts is recommended for children 9-14 years old and tells the story of a haunted house, a paranormal cat, and the power of friendship.

“What a lovely and fun book! It follows the Thompson family as they move into an old house they’ve inherited. The story takes a turn when their son Timmy forms a bond with Whiskers. It’s charming and entertaining, and the characters are delightful. The book is on the longer side for a children’s book, but the story is engaging enough. A must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure with a little bit of the supernatural. Check it out, you won’t regret it,” Sanjin explains in their five-star Amazon review.

Melvin C. raves in his five-star Amazon review, “The Cat Who Chased Ghosts by Nic Minnella is a captivating and enchanting tale that transports readers into a world of mystery and adventure. With a perfect blend of suspense and charm, the story follows a brave cat on a thrilling quest to uncover secrets and chase away ghosts. Minnella’s engaging writing and vivid storytelling make this book an irresistible read for children and adults alike, ensuring every page is filled with wonder and excitement.”

Test of the Champion

Test of the Champion by Ann Hassler

With a 4.7 average star rating, this book is recommended for readers 7-12 years old, and tells the story of a young philly, as she sets out to be the fastest horse on the track.

“I have a wild mustang horse who loves children and I was looking for some books for kids to read to him. I’m so glad I picked this book from Amazon! The sweet horse in the story stays focused and values her friends. I really like it.” Tess G. writes in her five-star Amazon review. 

“My niece loved the story and how Indy overcame her obstacles! A true test of the champion, it’s a delightful story to inspire young girls (and boys), give them confidence… and even some ideas for overcoming bullying. We recommend it and will share our book with young members of our family,” newchild shares in their five-star Amazon review.

I Want to Stay in Kindergarten

I Want to Stay in Kindergarten by Carmit Rachel Swed

With a 4.4 average star rating, I Want to Stay in Kindergarten is meant for children who are getting ready to transition from Kindergarten to first grade. It’s also helpful for parents who are seeking to support their child’s transition.

“Carmit Rachel Swed gives a heartwarming glance at the emotions one goes through when saying goodbye. I don’t think many people really think about what it means to say good-bye as a child and Swed manages to capture it in a way that everyone can understand. For a child reading this book it gives validation to things they may be feeling about moving on to the next grade in school. While aimed at kindergarteners the feelings could also extend to 1st and perhaps 2nd graders as well. The illustrations are wonderful and will capture the imagination of many.

I would recommend this to anyone who had a child who was having a hard time saying good-bye at the end of the school year,” Jen B. explains in her five-star Amazon review.

Dan P. writes in his five-star Amazon review, “I have a 5 year old kid that’s also leaving her kindergarten so this is a great book for my family. The book captures this sensitive subject in a beautiful and emotional way…I really recommend it.”

Lily Firehands and the Secret of Warmth by Craig Philip Staufenberg

With a 4.4 average star rating, Lily Firehands and the Secret of Warmth tells the story of Lily, who was born in a boat surrounded by frozen water. Will she ever be able to experience anything other than the cold? The title is recommended for readers ages six and up.

Maia N. writes in her five-star Amazon review, “Such a gorgeous book, from the illustrations and coloring to the incredibly thoughtful and engaging writing. The world building is executed beautifully, and the central message (for readers and Miss Lily alike) is oh so insightful. A great read for all ages, and especially for those who need to remember to let the light in.”

Monika J. writes in her five-star Amazon review, “This is a creative and inspiring story that will delight both children and adults. It promotes healthy ideas and demonstrates how strength comes in many forms. The beautiful artistry will draw in young readers and allow them to enter into a fairy tale land, rich with imagination.”

The Bird Caper by Victoria E. Pannell & Thorir Sigfusson

With a 4.8 average star rating, The Bird Caper is part of The Crow’s Tales series, which is meant for middle grade readers. In this installment, Brandon must clear his reputation and friendships after a string of odd bird related incidents implicate him and his pet crow.

Victoria explains in her five star Amazon review, “The Bird Caper was a sweet, innocent story of friendship, shared values, and that love for animals and pets that can be more profound when kids are going through stages of development where they feel awkward and unsure…The character development is certainly this story’s strength…The Bird Caper is a delightful, poignant story that captures the art of fine storytelling without relying on sensationalism or racy themes. Rather, positive qualities of friendship, loyalty, patience, and curiosity are depicted in a way that is uplifting and appealing.”

“The first book The Bird Caper in the first The Crow’s Tale series by Victoria Pannell, and Thorir Sigfusson is an amazing, and creative story that is perfect for middle school readers and parents. Extremely well written, with great character descriptions, balanced, and relatable. It’s fun, and educational with subtle hints of problem solving emotional ups , and downs of growing up where friendships, moving to a new house can become a big issue for a school aged child…The Bird Caper is a great book for middle school kids, and their parents, and would make a perfect dinner table discussion for both. Honestly SO SO worth reading,” agrees Hildagarrison writes in her five star Amazon review.


Hidden Gems readers got to read these promising children’s books first, so if you want more stories and guides to add to your kiddo’s reading list, sign up today! Subscribers to Hidden Gems receive invitations to read books like these – plus other titles from any of up to 15 other genres – for free. Authors send these out in the hopes that the readers will write an honest review once they’re done.

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