The Story Orchestra: Hansel and Gretel
Illustrated by Jessica Courtney-Tickle
Step into a magical forest with this musical retelling of Hansel and Gretel, featuring 10 enchanting sound buttons that bring Humperdinck’s iconic score to life. Each page pairs the timeless tale with rich orchestral music, creating a multi-sensory reading experience. At the back of the book, discover a mini biography of composer Engelbert Humperdinck, along with fascinating insights into the musical techniques, instruments, and rhythms used throughout. A helpful glossary introduces key musical terms, making this both an engaging story and a gentle introduction to classical music.

Why it makes a great gift: Beautifully illustrated and musically immersive, this book is perfect for children who love fairy tales, music, or both. It’s a unique keepsake that inspires imagination, encourages active listening, and sparks curiosity about classical music – an ideal gift for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions.

Published by: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books Ages: 5-8 $32.99

The Fantastical Safari
Written by Lucy Brownridge, Illustrated by Kristjana S Williams
Step into a world where real animals and mythical creatures roam side by side. The Fantastical Safari is a vibrant, beautifully illustrated journey through Earth’s wildest places – where science meets legend, and every creature has a story to tell. From towering giraffes and elusive octopuses to shapeshifting foxes and fire-breathing dragons, young readers will discover the animals that inspired myths – and the myths that shaped how we see the natural world.

Why it makes a great gift: With stunning artwork, rich storytelling, and fascinating facts, The Fantastical Safari sparks curiosity and invites imagination. It’s a perfect keepsake for kids who love animals, fantasy, and adventure – an unforgettable book to explore again and again, alone or with family.

Published by: Wide Eyed Editions Ages 6-10 $38.00

Mythology Land – 12 Classic Legends Reimagined
Written by Claire Cock-Starkey, Illustrated by Pham Quang Phuc
Step into a world of legends with Mythology Land – a stunning, large-format gift book where classic myths meet beautifully illustrated maps. Perfect for bedtime or quiet reading time, each expertly retold tale is paired with a detailed map that brings the story’s world to life. Travel across Midgard with Thor, flee through the Deep Dark Forest from Baba Yaga, or trace the Yangtze River in the legendary race of the zodiac animals. Each page invites children to explore, imagine, and get wonderfully lost in mythical lands.

Why it makes a great gift: A feast for the eyes and the imagination, Mythology Land combines storytelling, geography, and art into one magical volume. It’s the perfect keepsake for young adventurers, mythology lovers, and curious minds who dream of worlds beyond their own.

Published by: Frances Lincoln Children’s Books Ages: 7-10 $45.00