ICR Blog

4 Books For Children Of All Ages That Make Perfect Christmas Gifts

Written by I Can Read Singapore | 22 Feb 2022

It’s the most wonderful time of the year once again! And there’s nothing children love more about this time of the year than getting their presents.

And for many of our students who are bookworm converts, a good book might just be the ticket! 

The Team at I Can Read is often asked by parents which books are suitable for their children.
We have thought long and hard about this list, and our picks provide a sample of classic literature that our teachers highly appreciate and know your child will enjoy.

We've divided the books into age categories so you can be certain you are getting the most suitable book for your child. 

Remember: with the younger ones, reading should be a joint activity.
Engaging in the telling of the story with your child is a definite way for your child to enjoy the story and bond with you too. 

Don’t forget that discovering new ideas and discussing themes is sometimes just as important as the reading itself. Making this a part of the reading routine with a child will better engage the child with the content of the story and deepen their joy of reading. 

So get started by checking out our list. Happy reading!


4-5 year olds 

In My Heart: A Book of Feelings by Jo Witek

This book explores a range of emotions represented by different coloured hearts.

Through fun illustrations and its evocative text, the book helps young learners develop an understanding of how to describe the way they are feeling with more confidence and accuracy. Children are exposed to feelings such as happiness, sadness, bravery or anger in the book and learn to engage with such feelings and emotions.

The use of similes and other literary writing techniques also gives this book a lyrical quality that will be a source of joy to read for you and your child.

6-7 year olds 

The Great Big Enormous Book of Tashi by Anna Fienberg and Barbara Fienberg

“Well, it was like this.” Every story of Tashi starts with this iconic line. Set in an imaginary world of Tashi, readers get to meet warlords, wicked barons, giants and other nasty beings. 

Addressing themes of courage, adventure and loyalty, Tashi always knows what to do and what to say. A calm character with a quick wit, Tashi is ready for action and moves fast. 

Have fun reading and embarking on the adventure in the world of Tashi in the series of books in one big volume!

8-9 year olds

Any book by Dick King - Smith

Introduce your child to the wonderful world of Dick King-Smith. A world of animals and their efforts to overcome their struggles by banding together and finding comfort in friendship and bonding. 

With over a hundred children’s books under his belt, Dick King-Smith has built a reputation for writing the most imaginative and enchanting books for kids. 

In fact, one of his greatest hits “The Sheep Pig” was adapted into the widely popular film Babe in 1995. 

The movie became an instant hit worldwide because it was a heartwarming tale that resonated with not just the children, but all who watched the movie. Pick up a copy of the book for a great story-time session post-Christmas.

10 – 11 year olds

Sherlock Sam by A.J. Low 

This detective series is set in our very own Singapore. Written by a husband and wife team, Sherlock Sam and the Missing Heirloom in Katong won the International Schools Libraries Network’s Red Dot Award 2013-2014 in the Younger Readers’ Category. 

Reading these books provides a fun way to explore mysteries in your own backyard. The characters and settings are recognisable to children in Singapore with riveting and exciting adventures. The illustrations and stories will definitely intrigue and satisfy your child’s curiosity while engaging them for hours.