A number of wonderful, quirky (and often hilarious) children’s books in translation have been released recently. Here are some of our recent favourites:

It’s My Rubber Band by Shinsuke Yoshitake

Translated from Japanese by Sofiane Kohen

Have you ever wanted something that was just yours? It’s My Rubber Band explores how a cherished everyday object can become a catalyst for curiosity, play and a profound sense of connection. With a special object of one’s very own, the possibilities are as limitless as the imagination! Japanese author Yoshitake is a Readings favourite and his profound yet hilarious books always hit the mark with young readers. This one is an absolute delight!

Suitable for ages 2 and up.

Free Kid to Good Home by Hiroshi Ito

Translated from Japanese by Cathy Hirano

In this comical twist on sibling rivalry, a girl decides she needs a new family - so she writes Free Kid on a box and waits in the street for some better parents to choose her. Waiting in a box like an abandoned pet and encountering the passersby changes the girl’s perspective. At the end of the day, when her parents pretend they need an older sister for their new baby, she is ready to leave her box and go happily back home. This is a hilarious early chapter book with vibrant pictures that will make young readers laugh out loud.

Suitable for readers aged 6 and up.

The King of the Copper Mountains by Paul Biegel

Translated from Dutch by the author and Gillian Hume

At the end of his thousand-year reign of the Copper Mountains, old King Mansolain is tired and his heart is slowing down. When his attendant, the Hare, consults The Wonder Doctor, he is told he must keep the King engaged in life by telling him a story every night until the Doctor can find a cure.

This wonderful book about the power of stories is a timeless classic that would also be an excellent read aloud.

Suitable for readers aged 7 and up.

The Secrets of Cricket Karlsson by Kristina Sigunsdotter & Ester Eriksson

Translated from Swedish by Julia Marshall

We love this quirky, darkly emo but hilarious short novel.

Eleven-year-old Cricket Karlsson is a warm and complex character with an artistic soul. Written as a diary, readers will fall in love with Cricket’s tough yet charming voice as she shares her secret thoughts about her best friend break-up, her Aunt’s breakdown and experimental chewing gum sculptures. Comic-style illustrations perfectly compliment this coming of age story.

Suitable for readers aged 10 and up.

The Riddle of the Sea by Jonne Kramer

Translated from Dutch by Laura Watkinson

Limited stock. More stock due early August.

When Ravian’s father doesn’t return home from sea for his son’s birthday, Ravian is certain he must be in danger.

Hearing tales of a cursed ship that captures fishermen, Ravian goes in search of his father accompanied by a seagull friend. The pair soon find themselves trapped on the ship with only a kindly boy and a bad-tempered pirate for company. The ensuing voyage is beset by battles with giant squid and fierce storms. Ravian despairs of ever finding his father, but he never gives up his quest.

An exciting adventure for readers aged 10 and up.