Five children’s books that parents should give their children on International Children’s Book Day (2024)

We commemorate International Children’s Book Day (ICBD) on April 2nd of each year. Children’s love of reading is the focus of this day. Imagine a world where information, entertaining personalities, and thrilling experiences abound. That is the power of books. Reminding children (and adults!) of the wonder and delight that may be discovered in a book’s pages is the main goal of this day. So take a book, cuddle up with a warm blanket, and lose yourself in your own little fantasy world.

Date and Theme of International Children’s Book Day in 2024
International Children’s Book Day is observed on April 2nd of each year; this year, the holiday occurs on a Tuesday. With the theme “Crossing Oceans through the Power of Imagination,” International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) Japan (JBBY) is honored to be the official sponsor of ICBD 2024.

History on International Children’s Book Day in 2024
The first Children’s Book Day (ICBD) was created in 1967 by IBBY as a way to promote children’s books. The date of April 2nd was selected to fall on the birthday of the well-known Danish novelist Hans Christian Andersen, who wrote timeless masterpieces like “The Little Mermaid” and “The Ugly Duckling.

The fact that Andersen’s tales have encouraged countless numbers of people to discover the pleasure of reading makes this choice a worthy tribute. With time, ICBD has become a much-loved yearly event that is enthusiastically welcomed by book communities, libraries, and educational institutions all around the globe. Every year, a separate IBBY national division gets to host the event, choose the topic, and invite well-known writers and artists to create a poster and statement that perfectly sums up ICBD.

An endearing story of metamorphosis and discovery, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” is a timeless classic that never fails to captivate young hearts. Eric Carle guides kids through the life cycle of a caterpillar via vivid images and a straightforward story, imparting important lessons about development, tenacity, and the wonders of nature.

Explore the creative world of Max, a naughty youngster who sets out on an exciting journey to a place home to many exotic animals. Maurice Sendak’s classic work of literature, “Where the Wild Things Are,” captivates young readers with its sensitive examination of childhood emotions and dreams and vivid drawings. A classic story that awakens kids’ imaginations and inspires them to embrace their wild side.

The book “Matilda” by Roald Dahl is a must-read for older kids who like magic and mayhem. Experience the amazing adventure of Matilda Wormwood, a bright young child with a penchant for books and the ability to telekinetically move objects. “Matilda” is a literary masterpiece that will linger in the minds of young readers because of its clever humor, quirky characters, and inspiring message of intellect and resilience.

Enter the magical realm of sorcery and enchantment with J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” Upon Harry Potter’s arrival at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, readers are swept away to a magical, companionable, and adventurous world. This cherished series never fails to enthrall and inspire readers of all ages with its vividly conceived world, intriguing characters, and timeless themes of bravery and friendship.

Suzanne Collins’s riveting dystopian story of survival and rebellion in “The Hunger Games” is ideal for older teenagers who are looking for adventure and intrigue. This action-packed thriller, which takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where teens are forced to battle to the death in a televised spectacle, tackles themes of sacrifice, resiliency, and the strength of hope. Until the very end, readers will be gripped by this thought-provoking book.