2025 Trends in Children's Books

By Paula Darnell

Founder/CEO of Books By The Bushel LLC.

Children's books have undergone some big changes since I first started Books By The Bushel in 2009.

I have often said that getting the publishers to listen to the content needs of early childhood books can feel like walking in quicksand!

Each year, we attend conferences and book shows to meet with the top publishers and give them the feedback we hear from you and to keep our finger on the pulse of the early literacy publishing industry.

I am pleased to see that the publishers are listening, and the trends for 2025 into 2026 are moving forward with relevant content.

But more importantly, I am proud to say that we at Books By The Bushel have partnered with some of these publishers to create our own content to meet the needs of our literacy partners!

Here is what we are seeing for 2025/2026

Diverse Stories

Today's books increasingly include characters from all backgrounds so children can see themselves in them. Authors are creating well-rounded characters who reflect different experiences.

Diverse Books can help children:

Learn about the world beyond their own experiences
Learn to value others
See themselves and feel a sense of belonging

Environmental Themes

Authors are adding environmental awareness to their children's books. Some of the trends we are seeing include recycling, caring for endangered animals, and teaching sustainable living.

Eco-Friendly Themes can help children:

Learn to appreciate nature
Understand the importance of animal care and protection
Feel empowered to care for the environment around them

Interactive Books

My Personal Favorite!

These types of books require some type of participation or interaction from the reader. This includes things like saying a specific phrase (think Dr. Seuss), touching a textured part of the book (my favorite as a child!), or pressing a button.

Interactive Books can help children:

Be more engaged
Improve their vocabulary
Develop their sensory skills

Mental Health Focus

Children experience big emotions and often aren't sure how to navigate them. Authors are tackling these topics head-on with sensitivity and care.

In 2024, we introduced our exclusive "Little Bug" series in collaboration with Little Ruckus Press and Dr. Lucie Pentz. This series gives parents and educators the opportunity to discuss common behaviors with children.

New This Year!

Five Additional languages in our Little Bug Series!

Q2-2024 April 1, 2025

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