Our must-have picks to make every young reader’s holiday magical!
Looking for something special to tuck under the tree this year? We’ve gathered a collection of our very favourite titles — the ones that make eyes light up, imaginations soar, and giggles spill out at storytime. Whether you’re shopping for your kids, grandkids, nieces, nephews, or that sweet little reader next door, this year’s Top Shelf Titles were handpicked to make your holiday shopping simple and joyful.
🚁 Action Seekers: Books that ZOOM! and BOOM!
Titles: Planes and Helicopters Magic Painting – $11.99, Superpoodle and the Mega Blaster – $9.99
For the little ones who love speed and excitement — these stories and activities are packed with high-flying adventures and laugh-out-loud heroics. From buzzing helicopters to brave pups, these books keep energy high and imaginations racing. Perfect for kids who can’t sit still and love a good “vroom!” or “kaboom!” in their activities & storytime.
Why They’ll Love It: Bursting with action and fun, these titles turn reading time into playtime!
🕵️ Adventure Awaits: For Kids Who Love a Good Mystery
Titles: Puzzle Adventure: The Mummy Mystery – $10.99, Adventure Gamebook: Portal of Chaos – $12.99
For the curious minds who love to explore, solve, and discover — these stories invite readers to dive headfirst into thrilling worlds of danger, riddles, and secrets waiting to be unlocked. Whether they’re unraveling a mummy’s mystery or stepping through a portal to another realm, each page delivers excitement and intrigue that keeps kids turning the pages long after bedtime.
Why They’ll Love It: These books transform reading into an immersive experience — part puzzle, part adventure, and 100% fun!
🐙 Rhyme Time: Learning to Read Has Never Been More Fun (and Funny!)
Titles: Squid Lifts the Lid – $9.99, Starting to Read with Phonics Pack – $44.99, Bug Tales (5 Fabulously Funny Stories) – $17.99
Filled with rhythm, rhyme, and a big dose of humour, these books make early reading an absolute delight. Young learners will giggle their way through silly stories and playful word sounds, gaining confidence without even realizing they’re learning. With a mix of zany characters and phonics-friendly fun, this is where literacy meets laughter.
Why They’ll Love It: It’s reading made joyful — funny, catchy, and confidence-building for little learners!
🎨 Creative Minds: Art + Facts = FUN!
Title: Slot-together Animals – $16.99
For the hands-on, always-making, always-curious kids — this pick blends creativity and discovery in the best possible way. With slot-together models so kids can build, and learn, these books invite readers to explore fascinating animals through colour, craft, and imagination.
Why They’ll Love It: They get to create as they learn — turning reading into a hands-on, minds-on adventure!
🐾 I Love My Pets!: Kittens & Puppies & Bunnies, oh my!
Titles: That’s not my… jigsaw book: Pets – $16.99, First Magic Painting I Love You Bunny – $11.99, There There Little Puppy – $16.99
Soft, sweet, and full of heart — this collection celebrates the joy of furry friends and the special bond kids share with their beloved pets. From touchy-feely jigsaws to gentle painting fun and comforting stories, these books are perfect for animal-loving kiddos who can’t resist a wagging tail or floppy ear.
Why They’ll Love It: These cozy, cuddle-worthy reads are made for animal lovers — equal parts adorable and heartwarming!
🐸 Animal Tales: Sweet Stories of Adorable Animals
Titles: Friendship for Frogs – $17.99, Wand Books: Unicorn Magic – $25.99
Step into a world of wonder with these beautifully illustrated stories featuring frogs, unicorns, and other enchanting creatures. Each book offers a gentle blend of friendship, courage, and imagination — the kind of timeless tales that invite readers to dream big and believe in magic.
Why They’ll Love It: Whimsical, heartwarming, and oh-so-magical — perfect for cozy storytimes and quiet moments together.
🎁 Why These Books Make Perfect Holiday Gifts
Every title in our Top Shelf lineup was chosen to spark joy, curiosity, and creativity. Whether it’s an activity book that keeps little hands busy or a story that warms young hearts, these picks are sure to become new family favourites — long after the wrapping paper’s been recycled. ❤️
✨ Shop now for holiday delivery!
Don’t let these top picks slip away! Order now through your Usborne Consultant to make sure these beloved titles arrive in time to go under the tree. With limited stock, now’s the time to secure your favorite books and ensure your holiday shopping is stress-free.
Don’t have a Consultant yet? Not a problem! Visit our website and we’ll get you in touch.
Happy reading and happy holidays!
