12 children's and young adult books to get you hooked on reading

BarcelonaIt's always a good time to encourage reading. We recommend several titles for all ages and tastes to get your children hooked on reading. A selection made by Marta Gil, bookseller at El Gat Pelut in Barcelona, ​​​​specializing in children's and young adult literature.

With the cute and endearing illustrations of her little bird protagonist, Marion Deuchars presents us Fitness for suckers, an ideal book for the whole family that combines fun and health. This physical exercise manual, with simple, visual explanations, helps us work on flexibility, mobility, and the cardiovascular system, promoting an active and healthy life. Perfect for an easy and entertaining introduction to the world of fitness, for both adults and children. A book that makes training a fun activity!

For the whole family.

Marianne Dubuc, an internationally renowned Canadian illustrator, stands out for her tender and detailed style that combines soft colors with vibrant scenes and small hidden details. In this collection, she transports us to Julia's Forest, a magical world where she and her friends live adventures inspired by the seasons. Through captivating illustrations, Dubuc celebrates nature, friendship, and the small moments that make everyday life special. A warm visual journey that stimulates the imagination and invites you to connect with the rhythm of nature.

For ages 3+.

Five mysterious characters have disappeared through the streets of Paris, and readers must follow the clues to discover their itinerary. This game book combines detailed illustrations with puzzles that test visual memory, observation skills, and ingenuity. With an adventure set in iconic locations such as Parisian squares, markets, museums, and cafés, it becomes an interactive experience that encourages concentration and logical reasoning. An ideal option for elementary school children, it invites them to have fun while solving mysteries.

For ages 8 and up.

This comic addresses a current and complex issue: fake news and misinformation. Aimed at young people new to social media, the book explains with characteristic humor the dangers of believing and sharing misleading information. The author addresses key ideas, such as the effects of misinformation on topics like climate change or unscientific medical theories, helping to distinguish between facts and opinions. Although it is not always easy to verify information, the book emphasizes the importance of seeking reliable sources and consulting experts, such as librarians. A useful resource for collaborative reflection with adults and encouraging critical thinking.

Recommended for ages 9 and up.

A classic poem is reinterpreted in this illustrated album in which the eight verses ofThe wallCavafy's works are brought to life by Mar Borrajo's powerful images. Through a black line and a red stain, the author creates scenes that challenge the contemporary reader, exploring themes such as isolation and cell phone dependence. This combination of the power of the verses and the provocative visual approach invites us to reflect on how a classic text can remain relevant and uncomfortable. A work that unites poetry, art, and social criticism, perfect for generating debate and awakening critical thinking in any generation.

Recommended for ages 10 and up.

A playful and humorous book for little ones. With a simple, repetitive story, ideal for reading aloud, it follows the adventures of a toad who devours the bugs that try to cheer him up, until a mischievous grasshopper teaches him a lesson. Maite Mutuberria combines expressive illustrations with soft colors and typographical play that add dynamism and fun. Visual details, such as the narrative endpapers, and the precise yet clever text make this book a little joy to enjoy with the family. A work that proves that, sometimes, less is more.

Recommended for ages 2-3 and up.

Families are as diverse as the people who live in the world. There are things introduces us to an adoptive family and invites us to look at life with an open and loving eye. Juan Senís conveys a profound message with simple, precise text, while Carmen Segovia amplifies it with delicate and moving illustrations that connect directly with the reader. A tender and inspiring album to discover that, despite our differences, there is something that unites us all.

For ages 2 and up.

Mr. Ruraru, the serious little man with a mustache and baggy trousers, returns with two new adventures. In this one, he goes for a bike ride and, in no time, finds himself transporting a multitude of little animals. A story that combines humor and tenderness to talk about the importance of sharing and enjoying each other. Hiroshi Itô plays with expressive illustrations and a lively text that makes this a fun read for little ones. An ideal book to read aloud and laugh together.

For ages 4 and up.

Can you imagine turning your home into a real jungle? This book explains how to do it with fascinating information about indoor plants, their benefits, and how to care for them. Expert Michael Holland offers practical tips and playful learning activities, while Philip Giordano's vibrant illustrations make this a captivating read. A perfect book to spark scientific curiosity and respect for nature in young children.

For ages 7 and up.

What would happen if the Earth were flat? Well, absurd and fun things like the idea that we could make a hole through the planet, or that it would have more holes than a piece of cheese! With lots of humor and a touch of madness, Andrea Antinori brings us the first title in the series. True or false, which invites little ones to question the world through play and imagination. The vibrant illustrations and casual style make this book both hilarious and stimulating. A book that makes us laugh while teaching us to think.

For ages 5 and up.

Ida and her little brother, Oscar, share adventures, games, and friendships, but they also learn that growing up involves facing change and loss. Maria Parr, often compared to Astrid Lindgren, creates a touching and sensitive novel about the world of childhood. With her intimate and evocative writing, she gives us a story that resonates with readers of all ages. A delightful read that reminds us of the magic of everyday life and the power of imagination.

For ages 10+.

Neon is locked in the bathroom, counting the seconds before he takes a big step with Aria. But every second carries with it months and years of history: their relationship, their conversations with their parents, their doubts and their fears. Jason Reynolds gives us a brilliant novel, narrated in a countdown, whose protagonist captivates us with his authenticity. A story about love, intimacy, and teenage dilemmas, written with an honesty that moves and invites reflection.

For ages 14 and up.