Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
Most parents would agree that reading to children is important.
But just how important is it? The World Literacy Foundation USA Reads website states that having books in your home is the single biggest indicator of a child's academic success—surpassing income, parents' education, family composition, and many other factors.
Decades of research have shown that literacy is a key indicator of academic and real-life success. And yet, approximately 45 million Americans are functionally illiterate and can't read above a fifth-grade level, according to the Literacy Project.
With that in mind, you'll want to take time out of your fast-paced day to read with your child. Snuggle up for some cozy reading time with a Minky Couture blanket and add some new reads to your repertoire. Here are 12 of the freshest, funniest, and thought-provoking new books for children.
'Pasta Pasta Lotsa Pasta'
By Aimee Lucido, illustrated by Mavisu Demirag
A New York Public Library Book for Kids 2024 pick, "Pasta Pasta Lotsa Pasta" shows that family dinners can be tricky when guests are picky. This family's kitchen gets more and more chaotic as pasta night goes on, ending in hilarity. Your little one will love the rambunctious rhymes!
'A Thousand Years'
By Christina Perri, illustrated by Joy Hwang Ruiz
Singer Christina Perri teams up with bestselling illustrator Joy Hwang Ruiz to turn her hit song "A Thousand Years" into a tender picture book on motherhood. Try not to cry when reading the lyrics "I have loved you for a thousand years, I'll love you for a thousand more."
'The Most Boring Book Ever'
By Brandon Sanderson, illustrated by Kazu Kibuishi
Brandon Sanderson mega fans, meet your new favorite children's book. The acclaimed bestselling author—and native Utahn—Sanderson teams up with fellow fantasy titan Kibuishi for a book that's a lot more exciting than its title lets on.
'Llama Llama Loves His Teacher'
By Anna Dewdney
The beloved rhyming series for young children gets an update with "Llama Llama Loves His Teacher." Spend the school day with Llama as he learns and tells all the things he loves about his teacher.
'Girls on the Rise'
By Amanda Gorman
Presidential inaugural poet Amanda Gorman celebrates girls and girlhood through powerful, flowing prose and bright illustrations in "Girls on the Rise." A sample: "Who are we? We are a billion voices, bright and brave; we are light, standing together in the fight."
'Bookie and Cookie'
By Blanca Gómez
Bookie lives on the left page, Cookie on the right. The two friends fight over finding a compromise in this book that helps teach friendship lessons in an approachable way! Plus, parents will love the old-school, nostalgic feel of the charming illustrations.
'Home'
By Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Loren Long
Newbery Medal-winning author Matt de la Peña and bestselling illustrator Loren Long are a powerhouse team in this moving meditation on the places that feel like home. The lyrical text and expressive art are sure to make "Home" a new classic.
'Leo's First Vote!'
By Christina Soontornvat, illustrated by Isabel Roxas
One of NPR's Best Books of the Year, "Leo's First Vote!" Is a kid-friendly introduction to one of America's treasured democratic institutions. In this story, Leo's father teaches him that every vote counts and how important it is to use your voice to uplift your community.
'Construction Site: Garbage Crew to the Rescue!'
By Sherri Duskey Rinker, illustrated by AG Ford
The latest addition to the beloved "Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site" series was an instant bestseller. Whether you're a longtime fan of the crew or a newcomer, everyone will love this charming tale of teamwork.
'The Yellow Bus'
By Loren Long
The "Yellow Bus" is a hopeful, inspiring tale of a forgotten school bus that finds happiness and purpose along his journey. Perfect for the younger crowd of three- to six-year-olds.
'The Girl Who Was Too Big for the Page'
By Geena Davis
Geena Davis—yes, that Academy-Award-winning Geena Davis—authors a beautiful and humorous book about taking up space and being true to yourself! "The Girl Who Was Too Big for the Page" is sure to have its main character Sheila grow on you.
'Buffalo Fluffalo'
By Bess Kalb, illustrated by Erin Kraan
This little buffalo tries to act bigger and tougher than he really is—proclaiming his superiority to anyone who will listen, "Buffalo Fluffalo's" bravado eventually falters, but expect a heartwarming ending. The rhymes are sure to be a hit with any reader.
Cuddle up with a book and a Minky blanket
Make reading time with your children even more enjoyable with a luxurious and ridiculously comfortable blanket. Your soft Minky Couture blanket can transform reading time with your children from a simple activity into a cherished ritual.
Visit Minky's website or one of their storefronts to see all the colors, textures and patterns you can choose from. Create the perfect reading spot for your young bookworm while adding a touch of comfort. Happy reading!
