Kids are naturally curious about the world and, given half a chance, love to have deep conversations about important issues and events. Here are some books to help spark interesting discussions with kids.

For discussing the bushfire season…

The Bushfire Book by Chris Nixon & Polly Marsden

Australia is a big country with all sorts of weather – and sometimes extreme weather that causes bushfires. By helping them understand what causes bushfires and meet all the clever people (meteorologists, firefighters, rangers) who are keeping an eye on them, this reassuring guide equips kids with the facts and information to help them feel more prepared for – and less scared of – bushfires. The Bushfire Book also includes helpful hints on how to build your own bushfire plan, with websites and resources you can research for more details.

For ages 5 and up.

For discussing 26 January…

Day Break by Amy McQuire & Matt Chun

Day Break is the story of a family making their way back to Country on January 26. We see the strength they draw from being together, and from sharing stories as they move through a shifting landscape. Journalist Amy McQuire has crafted a story that refocuses the narratives around ‘Australia Day’ on Indigenous survival and resistance, and in doing so honours the past while looking to the future. This is perfect for discussing truth-telling with young readers.

For ages 4 and up.

For discussing the Black Lives Matters movement…

When We Say Black Lives Matter by Maxine Beneba Clarke

Two black parents talk to their baby about the strength, beauty, history and resilience of black people, underscoring the need for the Black Lives Matter movement and protests. This thoughtful picture book celebrates and uplifts the African diaspora across the world, while acknowledging sobering realities. Powerful verse and colourful illustrations help kids explore equal rights and the importance of standing up for your beliefs.

For ages 3 and up.

For discussing starting school…

How to Make a Friend in 6 Easy Steps by Dhana Fox & James Hart

Rosie the great white shark has a book that says making friends is easy if six steps are followed. But when Rosie (of the many, many pointy teeth) tries to play with the other sea creatures, she finds out making friends is not as easy as she thinks it will be! This sweet and funny picture book will help quell one of the major anxieties of starting a new childcare, kinder or school year – who to play with and how to make friends.

For ages 3 and up.

For discussing Chinese New Year…

Maisy’s Chinese New Year by Lucy Cousins

Maisy’s friend Tiger is coming home especially for Chinese New Year! Once the house is tidy and the decorations are up, Maisy changes into her red dress and throws a big party for all her friends. All the trappings of Chinese New Year are woven into Maisy’s familiar and colourful pre-schooler world: red packets, a delicious feast, the story of the twelve zodiac animals, fireworks and a dragon dance and parade.

For ages 1 and up.

For discussing continued social distancing…

While We Can’t Hug by Eoin McLaughlin & Polly Dunbar

Hedgehog and Tortoise were the best of friends. They wanted to give each other a great, big hug. But they weren’t allowed to touch. Luckily Owl is there to point out that there are lots of ways to show someone you love them. So Hedgehog and Tortoise try out waving to each other, writing letters, funny faces, dancing, blow kisses and making music together. While We Can’t Hug is lovely and reassuring book that shows creative ways to be safely together with our friends.

For ages 3 and up.

For discussing resilience…

I Am!: Affirmations for Resilience by Bela Barbosa & Edel Rodriguez

When you feel nervous, and you are ready to move on: Put your hands on your belly, take a breath, and say “I Am Brave!” This bold and bright board book covers ten relatable emotions (such as jealousy, anger, fear, guilt), and describes simple mindfulness exercises and positive affirmations that can help. Kids are encouraged to recognise their emotions and, if they don’t like the way they’re feeling, feel confident that they can do something to change it.

For ages 3 and up.

For discussing the environment…

You Can Change The World by Lucy Bell

Every day, we see a problem we would like to fix: a piece of rubbish in a green, grassy park; plastic water bottles buried in the sand at the beach; a garbage bin overflowing onto the street. This practical guide empowers kids to make small, achievable changes in their lives to help make a difference in the world. Filled with information, ideas and activities about re-using, reducing, recycling, making and growing, and interspersed with features on amazing children around the world, this beautifully illustrated book focusses mostly on environmental issues, but also covers animal rights and acts of kindness.

For ages 8 and up.