Read the latest book reviews of Minipreneur’s favourite children’s books this winter from leading publishers such as Andersen Press, Barefoot Books, and Faber.
Aggie Morton, Mystery Queen: Peril at Owl Park
Written by the award-winning Marthe Jocelyn and illustrated by the talented Isabelle Follath, this delightfully twisty festive mystery is the second instalment in a series inspired by the imagined childhood of Agatha Christie. Perfect for readers aged 9+, the story follows aspiring writer Aggie Morton as she heads to Owl Park, a vast country manor brimming with secret passages, glamorous guests, travelling actors and a supposedly cursed emerald. When Christmas morning brings a body rather than presents, Aggie and her loyal friend Hector must once again rely on sharp observation, logic and imagination to uncover the truth. Rich in atmosphere and gently humorous, the book blends classic whodunnit elements with a cosy seasonal setting, while black-and-white illustrated chapter headings add to its period charm. Parents will admire its clever plotting and literary nods, and children will relish solving the mystery alongside Aggie. £7.99 published by Andersen Press.
World Atlas Sticker Book
Written by the knowledgeable Nick Crane and illustrated by the gifted David Dean, this beautifully designed sticker book invites children aged 4–10 on an interactive journey around the globe. Packed with over 450 reusable stickers, it brings continents, countries and cultures vividly to life, encouraging young readers to explore people, wildlife, plants and landmarks region by region. Clear, child-friendly maps and bite-sized facts make geography feel accessible and exciting, while the hands-on sticker activities support learning through play. Thoughtfully produced as a companion to the Barefoot Books World Atlas, it also includes a pull-out map poster and links to further digital learning for families who wish to extend the experience. Bright, detailed illustrations add warmth and curiosity to every spread, making this an ideal screen-free activity for inquisitive minds. Parents will appreciate its educational depth and global perspective, and children will love travelling the world one sticker at a time. £9.99 published by Barefoot Books.
Solar System Sticker Book
Written by engineer and science writer Anne Jankéliowitch and illustrated by the talented Annabelle Buxton, this engaging sticker book offers children aged 6–8 a fun, fact-filled introduction to space. With more than 350 reusable stickers spread across informative and interactive pages, young readers are guided through the wonders of the solar system, from planets and stars to space exploration and scientific discovery. Designed as a screen-free STEM activity, the book breaks down complex ideas into accessible explanations supported by colourful illustrations and practical sticker-based tasks. As a companion to Barefoot Books Solar System and World Atlas Sticker Book, it encourages curiosity, critical thinking and a love of learning through hands-on engagement. Parents will value its clear educational focus, and children will delight in blasting off on a creative journey through space. £9.99 published by Barefoot Books.
The Magic in You
Written by world-renowned variety performer Mat Ricardo, this inspiring guide blends practical performance skills with an empowering message about confidence and self-belief. Drawing on his own journey from shy outsider to celebrated entertainer, Ricardo invites readers to discover circus tricks, juggling, comedy, magic and science experiments while learning resilience, focus and creativity. Clear instructions and an encouraging tone make even ambitious skills feel achievable, while the underlying message champions individuality and persistence. This is as much a personal development book as it is a performance manual, ideal for children who may doubt their own abilities. Parents will value its positive, confidence-building approach and real-life insight, and children will feel motivated to experiment, practise and uncover talents they never knew they had. £8.99 published by Faber.
The Taming of the Cat
Written by the twice Kate Greenaway Medal winner Helen Cooper, this exquisitely illustrated book is a masterclass in storytelling. When Brie the mouse is caught by the formidable cat Gorgonzola, he spins an elaborate tale to delay his fate, weaving a richly imagined story within a story full of princesses, magic, quests and peril. Cooper’s illustrations are sumptuous and expressive, drawing readers into both the framing narrative and the fantasy world it contains. The book explores the power of stories, wit over strength and the thrill of imagination under pressure, all delivered with warmth and dramatic flair. Parents will admire the literary sophistication and visual beauty, and children will be utterly absorbed by the tension, humour and spellbinding storytelling. £8.99 published by Faber.
Nineteen Eighty-Four
Written by the visionary George Orwell and illustrated by the strikingly original Murugiah, this highly illustrated hardback reintroduces a dystopian classic for Young Adult readers. Set in a chilling world of constant surveillance and manipulated truth, the story follows Winston Smith as he quietly questions a regime that controls language, memory and even thought itself. Murugiah’s bold, candy-coloured illustrations, threaded with South Asian motifs, add a contemporary visual lens that deepens the emotional impact and accessibility of Orwell’s warning. Themes of freedom, identity, power and resistance feel disturbingly relevant, encouraging thoughtful discussion and critical reading. Parents will appreciate the careful presentation of a seminal text that invites meaningful conversations about society and control, and YA readers will be gripped by the suspense, rebellion and haunting atmosphere of Winston’s dangerous awakening. £16.99 published by Faber.
