Walker Books, a beloved name in children’s publishing since 1978, is renowned for its innovative, high-quality stories and illustrations that captivate readers of all ages. Known for nurturing exceptional talent and producing award-winning titles, Walker’s catalogue spans festive fun, heartwarming tales, and educational reads that bring families together. This curated list of festive children’s books, handpicked by the Minipreneur team at Preneur World Magazine, are perfect for Christmas gifting, offering joyful stories, cosy adventures, and meaningful messages for children and parents to enjoy throughout the winter season.
Mr Santa by Jarvis
In this whimsical Christmas tale, a curious young girl has a chance encounter with Santa himself and seizes the moment to ask all her most pressing questions. With warmth and humour, Jarvis crafts a heartwarming story full of wonder and joy, capturing the childlike awe of meeting Santa. Each question, from “Do reindeer talk?” to “Is your belly button innie or outie?”, invites chuckles and delight. Jarvis’s illustrations perfectly complement the gentle tone, making this a charming read that parents and children will love to explore together. A festive gem that embodies the magic of Christmas Eve. £12.99 published by Walker Books.
Happy Days: 365 Facts to Brighten Every Day of the Year by Emily Coxhead
This uplifting collection from The Happy News creator, Emily Coxhead, is packed with 365 heartwarming facts to make every day a little brighter. From adorable animal trivia to inspiring human stories, each page offers a joyful snippet to start the day with a smile. Illustrated with Coxhead’s signature vibrancy, Happy Days is a delightful pick-me-up that young readers can enjoy all year round. Perfect for promoting positivity and resilience, this is a meaningful gift that brings joy, laughter, and feel-good vibes to readers of all ages. £10.99 published by Walker Books.
Dear Father Christmas by Alan Durant & Vanessa Cabban
This lovely interactive book brings the magic of Christmas alive as young Holly begins a penpal friendship with Father Christmas himself. Each lift-the-flap letter reveals snippets about Lapland, the reindeer, and the elves, giving readers a peek into the Christmas world. Alan Durant’s sweet storytelling paired with Vanessa Cabban’s charming illustrations makes this a true festive delight. Complete with a silver ticket from Father Christmas, Dear Father Christmas is a perfect gift for Christmas Eve, adding wonder and joy to the season. £8.99 published by Walker Books.
Christmas in Exeter Street by Diana Hendry & John Lawrence
This charming classic captures the true essence of Christmas as a house overflows with guests on Christmas Eve. Every corner is filled with holiday visitors – even a baby in the kitchen sink! This heartwarming story, brought to life by Diana Hendry’s warm storytelling and John Lawrence’s delightful illustrations, evokes the joy of sharing, togetherness, and festive cheer. A timeless favourite from Walker Books’ archives, Christmas in Exeter Street is a nostalgic treat that brings back the magic of a cosy, love-filled holiday gathering. £7.99 published by Walker Books.
Dasher Can’t Wait For Christmas by Matt Tavares
This enchanting follow-up to Dasher sees the lovable reindeer set out on a winter adventure when she just can’t wait for Christmas to arrive. Eagerly seeking holiday cheer, Dasher ends up lost, only to be guided home by a child’s kindness and a special gift. Matt Tavares has crafted another heartwarming story that celebrates compassion and friendship, beautifully illustrated to capture the magic of Christmas. With its timeless message and endearing characters, Dasher Can’t Wait For Christmas is bound to become a holiday classic, perfect for cosy family storytime by the tree. £7.99 published by Walker Books.
Bunnies in a Sleigh: A Crazy Christmas Story! by Philip Ardagh & Ben Mantle
Prepare for festive mayhem as Santa’s sleigh is commandeered by Sunnytown’s mischief-loving bunnies in this riotous Christmas adventure. When Santa’s elves fall mysteriously ill, these vehicle-obsessed bunnies take the reins – resulting in delightful chaos, chimney-hopping, and wild sleigh rides that are sure to bring endless giggles. Philip Ardagh’s playful storytelling, coupled with Ben Mantle’s detail-packed illustrations, create a visual feast of Christmassy fun that little ones will adore. This picture book, perfect for holiday read-alouds, brings back the beloved bunnies in a third hilarious instalment that’s full of festive spirit and humour. £7.99 published by Walker Books.
Super Duper Penguin Slide by Leonie Lord
Join a lively family of penguins on an epic journey to their snowy, mountain-top destination in this delightful winter tale. Travelling by bus, train, and even cable car, these adventurous penguins waddle through all weathers to finally reach the ultimate penguin playground. Leonie Lord’s debut on the Walker list is a fun-filled, boisterous read-aloud that invites little ones to join in on the penguins’ travels. Her vibrant illustrations are rich with humour and detail, making this an engaging, joyful book for penguin fans and a unique winter choice beyond Christmas. £7.99 published by Walker Books.
