As the weather cools and the afternoons grow softer, autumn is the perfect time to slow down and share a good story. From picture books that spark imagination to page-turners perfect for independent readers, the right book can turn a quiet afternoon into something magical.
We’ve gathered some of the best kids books to curl up with this autumn — stories that celebrate adventure, friendship, curiosity and the cosy joy of reading together. Whether it’s bedtime, a rainy afternoon or a peaceful moment before dinner, these beautiful books are sure to become family favourites.
The Far-Out Five: Snot Jelly Island
By Olaf Falafel
The Far Out Five: Snot Jelly Island
Gloriously weird and wildly imaginative, The Far-Out Five: Snot Jelly Island is a high-energy graphic novel bursting with absurd humour. After a magical tornado transforms a group of kids into bizarre creatures, they must navigate strange landscapes and even stranger challenges to find a missing wand and get home. Olaf Falafel’s bold illustrations and rapid-fire storytelling make this an irresistible read for kids who love silliness, surprises and visual comedy. Beneath the chaos is a story about friendship and teamwork, proving that even the strangest adventures are better shared.
Real Pigeons, Bin Baddies
By Andrew McDonald, illustrated by Ben Wood
Real Pigeon: Bin Baddies
The Real Pigeons are back, binning baddies and solving mysteries in another fast-paced, laugh-out-loud adventure. In this book, things get messy when the streets are trashed and one of the flock is threatened, forcing the pigeons to seek help from an unlikely ally. Packed with visual gags, bold illustrations and short chapters, this series is ideal for emerging and reluctant readers. Beneath the silliness, themes of teamwork, bravery and friendship shine through. A winning pick for fans of Dog Man and The Bad Guys.
Bored
By Felicita Sala
Bored by Felicita Sala
In Bored, Felicita Sala turns a familiar childhood complaint into a thoughtful celebration of imagination. Rita is deeply, dramatically bored, until boredom becomes the very thing that sparks creativity. With minimal text and richly detailed illustrations, this story invites readers to slow down and notice how ideas quietly emerge when there’s space to dream. Rather than rushing to fix boredom, Sala honours it, offering a gentle reminder that imagination often needs time to unfold. A clever, comforting picture book that resonates with children and parents alike.
Little Cloud
By Heidi McKinnon
Little Cloud by Heidi McKinnon
Little Cloud is a beautifully gentle board book that captures the emotional world of babies and toddlers with warmth and simplicity. On a sunny day, Little Cloud heads out to play, drifting a little too far before finding comfort and safety once more. Heidi McKinnon’s softly rhyming text and cosy illustrations introduce “gentle peril” in a reassuring, age-appropriate way, offering just enough tension to engage young readers. With sturdy pages and a tactile cover, this is a perfect cuddle-time read and a lovely first title in the Little Wonders series — designed to be read, loved and revisited.
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