Here are some of the Minipreneur team’s favourite books from Quarto this season. Quarto has carved out a distinctive place in children’s literature, known for its vibrant and interactive books that blend education with hands-on engagement. Focusing on creativity and discovery, Quarto’s titles often combine storytelling with activities, inviting young readers to learn through exploration and play. Their latest titles celebrate diversity, curiosity, and family traditions, offering everything from festive crafts and holiday stories to musical adventures and thrilling science-themed escapades. Each of these books presents an opportunity for parents to spark learning and joy in their children, making this curated selection a perfect gift list for families looking to inspire wonder and knowledge this holiday season.
Illumipedia by Carnovsky
This stunning interactive book invites readers to explore animals, insects, and prehistoric creatures with a three-colour lens. Each continent introduces readers to various species and environments, while the red, blue, and green lenses reveal hidden layers within each page. Parents will value the educational journey through nature and the animal kingdom, and children will marvel at the magical lenses, revealing secret worlds on every page.
£20 published by Wide Eyed Editions.
Spin to Survive: Deep Space Danger by Giles Sparrow & R. Fresson
In this thrilling, choose-your-own-adventure, readers become space explorers on a mission to Mars. Using a pop-out spinner, kids make life-or-death choices that navigate them through asteroid fields, solar flares, and spaceship repairs, creating an endlessly replayable experience. Parents will appreciate the educational adventure with science themes, while children will enjoy the immersive gameplay and the suspenseful decision-making.
£20 published by Wide Eyed Editions.
Listen to the Music: The Instruments by Mary Richards & Khoa Le
This auditory journey takes readers around the world through classical music’s famous instruments. Featuring snippets from Beethoven, Elgar, and more, this book combines sound clips with tales of musical history, designed to inspire future musicians. Parents will value the blend of cultural history and interactive music, while children will love pressing buttons to explore different sounds and stories.
£16.99 published by Wide Eyed Editions.
Wonderful Words That Tell a Tale by Tom Read Wilson & Ian Morris
From “astronaut” to “volcano,” this captivating book explores the origins and meanings of words, accompanied by charming watercolour illustrations. Each letter features four fascinating words, with a whimsical poem to enhance the journey. Parents will appreciate the linguistic exploration and poetic storytelling, while children will be enchanted by the quirky facts and delightful illustrations.
£14.99 published by words & pictures.
The Story Orchestra: I Can Play The Nutcracker
An interactive piano book where young readers can play eight memorable melodies from The Nutcracker with colour-coded keys. Each song is paired with an illustration from the ballet, encouraging kids to follow the story musically. Parents will appreciate the hands-on music introduction for beginners, and children will be thrilled to play famous tunes and explore the enchanting Nutcracker tale.
£14.99 published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books.
The Story Orchestra: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
This musical book brings Shakespeare’s magical comedy to life through stunning illustrations and Mendelssohn’s enchanting score. With sound buttons playing short clips, children explore the tale of fairies, lovers, and mistaken identities. The book also includes a composer’s biography and a glossary of musical terms. Parents will love the introduction to classical music and Shakespeare’s storytelling, while children will delight in the interactive sound buttons and captivating artwork.
£13.99 published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books.
A World Full of Christmas Crafts by Helen Mortimer & Joy Laforme
This global journey of festive crafts introduces children to holiday customs from around the world. Featuring 24 activities, from Danish paper hearts to Philippine lanterns, this book enriches holiday preparations with easy-to-follow crafts, recipes, and colourful illustrations. Parents will appreciate the diverse cultural insights and family-friendly projects, while children will enjoy creating decorations and treats inspired by international traditions.
£12.99 published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books.
Christmas by Annette Whipple & Emma Randall
This heartwarming guide takes young readers on a joyful journey through Christmas traditions with Charlie and his sisters as they celebrate Advent, bake festive treats, and share the story of the holiday’s Christian origins. Children can join in the excitement by making ornaments and a nativity scene, fostering creativity and connection. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful blend of cultural and religious education, while children will enjoy interactive crafts and learning about holiday customs worldwide.
£7.99 published by words & pictures.
Hanukkah by Lesléa Newman & Rotem Teplow
In this vibrant celebration of Hanukkah, readers join Lior and his family in lighting the Menorah, making latkes, and playing dreidel, as they commemorate the Hanukkah miracle. Engaging illustrations and simple explanations bring the eight-day holiday to life, with special activities like creating an edible Menorah and a tzedakah box. Parents will value the respectful and joyful representation of Jewish traditions, while children will love the hands-on crafts and the warmth of family gatherings.
£7.99 published by words & pictures.
