AUCKLAND, Today: Dragons, phoenixes, Tūī, sheep, kunekune pigs, Kiwi, and cats all share the spotlight in this year’s Whitcoulls Kids’ Top 50 Books List, revealed today, Friday 19 September 2025 at 5:00am.
Voted on by thousands of young readers, the Top 50 has been a go-to list for nearly 30 years, helping families discover fresh favourites and find the perfect bookish gift.
Whitcoulls Book Manager Joan Mackenzie says, “The Top 50 is a wonderful barometer of what kids like to read. Votes poured in again this year, showing that our children still love books and are keen to share their enthusiasm with others.”
This year’s highlights include 18 Kiwi authors, 15 newcomers, and a strong animal theme running through almost half the list. Standouts are Li Chen’s Detective Beans series (#11), James Russell’s Children of the Rush (#12), and Graci Kim’s fantasy Dreamslinger (#23).
“Despite the lure of digital devices, books continue to have a special place in children’s lives.” – Joan Mackenzie
Taking out the top spot again is J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, followed by Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man (#2) and Lynley Dodd’s Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy (#3).
“Many of the books are part of a series – 17 in total – which is significant for children’s engagement. When kids love the first book, they’re motivated to keep reading through the whole series,” Mackenzie says.
Timeless favourites continue to hold their ground, with The Gruffalo (#8), The Very Hungry Caterpillar (#9), and The Little Yellow Digger (#17) charming yet another generation of readers.
Mackenzie adds, “Despite the lure of digital devices, books continue to have a special place in children’s lives. National research shows that 84% of Kiwi eight-year-olds enjoy reading for pleasure, and most parents still read with their children weekly.
“The research also says that kids who read frequently not only feel more confident at school but are also more engaged in sport, the arts and other activities. It’s heartening to see that love of reading shine through in the votes for this year’s Top 50.”
- The full 2025 Kids’ Top 50 Books List is now live at whitcoulls.co.nz and will also be promoted in store as of today
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