Here are a few of Minipreneur’s favourite children’s books this June published by some of the UK’s leading children’s book publishers including Graffeg, Greystone Books, Welbeck Children’s Books, Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, and QuestFriendz.
Dee and Flee at the Haunted Castle
Written by the accomplished Julia Hubery with bright, endearing illustrations by the brilliantly talented Laura Wood, Dee and Flee at the Haunted Castle is a fun-filled adventure perfect for young readers aged 5–7. When Dee lands a job as a tour guide at spooky Howl Castle, she’s eager to share her exciting ideas – but stern boss Ms Prowl isn’t so keen. As Dee navigates micromanagement, a surprise sleepover and a secret visit from a top travel reviewer, she learns valuable lessons in teamwork, perseverance and creativity. Parents will appreciate the introduction to real-world skills, and children will love the quirky characters, hospitality hijinks and lively artwork. £9.99 (paperback) published by Graffeg.
Barnacle Bay
Created by the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2025 shortlisted author-illustrator Jana Curll, Barnacle Bay is a laugh-out-loud graphic novel with a big heart and a brilliant ecological message. Perfect for readers aged 6–9, this undersea adventure follows grumpy Crab and eager Larva as they explore a vibrant bay teeming with quirky creatures, from bickering sea anemones to a “shell-ection” of molluscs. Along the way, Crab discovers that perhaps the bay isn’t so boring after all. Packed with oceanic fun facts, science-based information reviewed by experts and brightly coloured illustrations, it’s a joyful way to inspire curiosity about the natural world. Parents will appreciate the gentle lessons in environmental awareness, while children will giggle at the witty wordplay and expressive artwork. £7.99 (paperback) published by Greystone Books.
Tangletree Mysteries: Peggy & Stu Hear Something Strange
Created by the brilliantly talented Steve Roberts and Joel Stewart, Tangletree Mysteries: Peggy & Stu Hear Something Strange is a lively and imaginative full-colour graphic novel packed with humour, heart and twisty turns. Perfect for readers aged 5-8 years and fans of Narwhal and Jelly, it follows dog detective Peggy and her shrewish sidekick Stu as they solve two quirky cases deep in Tangletree Wood. From mysterious hooting echoes to vegetable mayhem at the annual gardening contest, no puzzle is too peculiar for this dynamic duo. Parents will adore the gentle wit and engaging illustrations, while children will race through each page, eager to join the case. £7.99 (paperback) published by Welbeck Children’s Books.
The Floofs Reach For The Stars
Written and illustrated by the wonderfully imaginative Penelope O’Neill, The Floofs Reach For The Stars is a joyful introduction to a brand new graphic novel series for young readers. Perfect for kids aged 6-8, this book includes three enchanting stories starring the Floofs – quirky, magical creatures who are neither mouse, rat nor rabbit, but entirely their own thing. With vivid artwork, surreal adventures, and heartwarming themes of friendship and teamwork, this graphic novel is ideal for newly independent or reluctant readers. Parents will smile at the gentle life lessons, and children will delight in the cosmic escapades. £9.99 (paperback) published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books.
Make & Play: Build A Tree
Written by nature-loving broadcaster and Week Junior Book Awards 2024-shortlisted author Philippa Forrester, and beautifully illustrated by Colombian artist Natalia Rojas Castro, Make and Play: Build A Tree is a hands-on celebration of the natural world. Perfect for children aged 7+, this interactive novelty book includes over 40 press-out pieces to construct a stunning 30cm oak tree and 15 buildable models of woodland creatures. No scissors or glue needed – just imagination and curiosity. A richly illustrated 32-page book explores ecosystems, conservation and tree biology, all while sparking creative play. Parents will treasure the educational value, and children will relish the crafting fun. £19.99 (novelty book) published by Design Eye.
SuperQuesters Mission: River Crest Rescue
Written by the award-nominated and wonderfully knowledgeable Paul Ian Cross, and brought vividly to life by bestselling illustrators Katie Kear and Cherie Zamazing, SuperQuesters Mission: River Crest Rescue is a fast-paced STEM-powered adventure that is the perfect first chapter book for early readers aged 6+. When three best friends are transported into the magical board game Questland, they gain superpowers and face a perilous mission to save River Crest from the villainous goblin gardener Mortifer and his chaotic bots that are programmed to harm rather than help nature. Blending storytelling with brain-teasing puzzles, hands-on STEM experiments and conservation themes, this inclusive and exciting first chapter book is ideal for budding scientists and curious minds. Parents will love the educational edge, and children will dive into the problem-solving quest with glee. £6.99 published by QuestFriendz.
