World Book Day always brings a special kind of magic

Story time is one of our favourite moments at our groups. It’s the point in the session when everything slows down, little ones gather close, and imaginations open up. There’s something incredibly grounding about watching children become absorbed in a story and something equally lovely about the way it sparks memories for the adults in the room too.

For #WorldBookDay we gathered some of our favourite children’s books together.  Looking at the books, we’re sure many of you will feel that familiar wave of nostalgia. The Tiger Who Came to Tea, The Gruffalo, Each Peach Pear Plum… these are stories so many of us grew up with, and now we get to see a new generation delight in them all over again. It’s a reminder of how powerful books can be in helping children feel safe, connected and curious about the world.

World Book Day also feels like the perfect moment to celebrate the work we’re doing through Growing Minds and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Through these partnerships, families across our community receive free books every month, helping to build a love of reading from the very earliest days.

We see every week how stories help children develop language, confidence and imagination. But we also see how they help parents feel more connected, more supported and more empowered in their role. A simple book can open up conversations, spark play, and create routines that make family life feel just a little easier.

So on World Book Day, we’re celebrating the magic of stories, the ones we grew up with, the ones we share now, and the ones that will shape the futures of the children we support.

What was your favourite childhood book?