Books2Door Celebrates its 20th Birthday!
As Books2Door turns 20, it's a momentous occasion not just for us but for every reader who has journeyed with us through the enchanting world of literature. Over two decades, we've had the privilege of bringing stories that inspire, entertain, and enlighten countless homes. From timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, our shelves have seen it all. In celebration of our 20th birthday, we're thrilled to share a list of 20 of our favourite books—a mix of magic, adventure, and heartfelt stories that have captivated us and our readers over the years.
Roald Dahl's stories are a treasure trove of whimsy, wonder, and a dash of wicked humour. His unique narrative voice has introduced young readers to a world where the impossible becomes possible, and every child has the power to be brave, smart, and kind. With classics such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, James and the Giant Peach and more, there are so many marvellous stories to dive into- it’s no wonder it’s one of our favourite books!
The adventures of Paddington Bear, with his love for marmalade and knack for getting into unintentional mischief, have been a staple in children's literature, teaching lessons of kindness, curiosity, and the importance of family. The Paddington Bear story begins with a kind-hearted, marmalade-loving bear from "darkest Peru" who finds himself alone and lost at Paddington Station in London. He is discovered by the Brown family, who find a label around his neck that reads, "Please look after this bear. Thank you." Moved by his polite manners and his sad situation, the Browns decide to take him into their home, naming him Paddington after the station where they found him.
Spot the Dog’s playful and simple tales have made early learning a joyous journey for toddlers around the globe. Eric Hill’s creation is a testament to the power of interactive storytelling. The character of Spot is characterised by his curiosity, friendliness, and playful demeanour, traits that resonate with young children. Over the years, Spot has embarked on numerous adventures, from celebrating his birthday to going to the farm, each story exploring themes of discovery, friendship, and family life.
The Grishaverse, with its intricate world-building and complex characters, has enthralled readers. Shadow and Bone and Six of Crows have introduced us to a universe where magic and mystery collide in the most compelling ways. The Grishaverse novels are renowned for their intricate storytelling, richly developed characters, and immersive world-building. Bardugo weaves themes of power, identity, sacrifice, and the quest for belonging throughout the series, making it resonate with a wide audience. The diversity of her characters, in terms of background, abilities, and moral complexities, adds depth to the narrative and invites readers to explore the grey areas between right and wrong.
Dr. Seuss’s whimsical rhymes and imaginative illustrations have made reading an absolute delight for children. His books are not just stories; they're a fun, engaging way to introduce kids to the rhythm and possibilities of language. Dr. Seuss, the pen name of Theodor Seuss Geisel, is one of the most beloved children's authors of all time, known for his whimsical rhymes, imaginative characters, and distinctive illustrations. His books have captivated generations of young readers, introducing them to a world where creativity knows no bounds and encouraging a love of reading through playful language and engaging stories.
David Walliams has carved a niche for himself with his heartwarming, funny, and slightly irreverent stories that resonate with children and adults alike. His gallery of memorable characters and tales of triumph are a modern-day classic. David Walliams' books have been critically acclaimed and have won several awards. His engaging storytelling, combined with Tony Ross's distinctive illustrations, has made his books beloved by children worldwide. Walliams has a knack for addressing serious and sometimes taboo topics in a manner that is both entertaining and empathetic, making his books not only fun to read but also meaningful.
Lucinda Riley's series takes readers on a breathtaking journey across the globe, weaving together historical intrigue, romance, and the enduring bond of family through the tales of the D’Aplièse sisters. The Seven Sisters series is celebrated for its rich storytelling, meticulously researched historical contexts, and vividly painted settings that transport readers across time and space. Through the personal journeys of the D'Aplièse sisters, Riley explores themes of identity, family, and the search for belonging, making the series a compelling read for fans of historical fiction and family sagas.
Julia Donaldson’s enchanting narratives, paired with captivating illustrations, have become a cornerstone of children's literature, creating a magical world where animals speak and dreams come to life. Julia Donaldson's contribution to children's literature is immense, with her books being translated into numerous languages and selling millions of copies worldwide. They have been adapted into plays, animated films, and educational materials, extending their reach and impact beyond the page and making her books a staple in children's collections, encouraging a love of reading and storytelling that can last a lifetime.
Liz Pichon's Tom Gates series, with its distinctive doodle-style illustrations and hilarious anecdotes, perfectly captures the trials and tribulations of school life, making it a hit among young readers. The series has been praised for its ability to engage young readers, particularly those who might otherwise be hesitant to pick up a book. By combining humour, relatable storytelling, and interactive visuals, Liz Pichon has created a series that encourages creativity, reading for pleasure and the joy of the everyday.
The illustrated editions of the Harry Potter series have added a new dimension to J.K. Rowling’s magical universe, bringing Hogwarts and its inhabitants to vivid life for a new generation of readers. Readers and critics alike have praised Jim Kay's ability to capture the magic and wonder of the Harry Potter world, noting how the illustrations offer new insights and details that enhance the narrative. The books have been lauded for their quality and artistry, making them cherished additions to any Harry Potter collection.
Colleen Hoover's powerful narrative in It Ends With Us tackles tough subjects with sensitivity and depth, making it a poignant read for older teenagers and adults alike. Colleen Hoover is an American author renowned for her compelling novels in the New Adult and Young Adult categories, though her work often transcends these genres to explore complex emotional narratives that resonate with a wide range of readers. Since her debut in 2012, Hoover has become a best-selling author known for her gripping storytelling, deep character development, and ability to tackle difficult themes with sensitivity and insight.
A gripping thriller that combines the intrigue of a murder mystery with the dynamics of high school life, Karen M. McManus's novel keeps readers guessing until the very end. One of Us Is Lying is lauded for its engaging plot, dynamic character development, and the way it addresses contemporary issues facing teens, such as peer pressure, identity, family problems, and the impact of social media on their lives. McManus masterfully creates a suspenseful atmosphere while exploring the complexities of adolescence, making the novel a compelling read for both young adults and older readers. The book has been praised for its clever twist on the classic "whodunit" formula, bringing a modern flair to the mystery genre.
Charlie Mackesy's beautifully illustrated book is a heartwarming tale of friendship, kindness, and hope, resonating with readers of all ages. This bestselling book is a unique mix of hand-written narrative and exquisite ink drawings, depicting the interactions and conversations between the four titular characters: a curious boy, a greedy mole who loves cake, a wary fox who is slowly learning to trust, and a wise horse who carries them with gentleness and strength. As they journey together through the countryside, their simple yet profound dialogues touch on themes of love, friendship, bravery, and the significance of living in the moment.
Jeff Kinney’s series has become a global phenomenon, giving voice to the awkward years of adolescence through the diary entries of Greg Heffley, making readers laugh and cringe in equal measure.
David Baddiel’s books blend fantasy and reality, humour and heart, offering stories that spark imagination and discuss real-world issues in an accessible way. Baddiel's children's books have been widely praised for their originality, humour, and the gentle way they handle important life lessons. His ability to engage young readers, coupled with his knack for storytelling, has made his books favourites among children, parents, and educators. Many of his books have been recognised with awards and nominations, reflecting their positive impact and popularity.
Lauren Hoffmeier's series is a delightful exploration of friendship, adventure, and the beauty of diversity, captured through the enchanting tales of Mula and her friends. Mula and the Fly is a beautifully illustrated picture book series that promotes mindfulness and provides young readers with a soft introduction to yoga. The fun characters and easy yoga poses promote a happy, healthy lifestyle and encourage young readers to relax and unwind.
Meet Danny Dingle, aka Experimental Face (ha ha) - super-secret spy and future assistant to the greatest superhero EVER, Metal Face! The Danny Dingle's Fantastic Finds series is a humorous and engaging collection of children's books written by Angie Lake. The series follows the misadventures of Danny Dingle, an inventive and curious boy who loves nothing more than creating bizarre gadgets and going on wild escapades with his best friend Percy and his pet Superdog. These books are known for their humour, creativity, and the appeal they hold for reluctant readers, especially those who enjoy stories filled with fun, mischief, and inventiveness.
I Love You, And Other Stories: 10 Books Collection Box Set by Giles Andreae and illustrated by Emma Dodd is a cherished collection that brings together heartwarming stories tailored for young readers. From I Love Cats, to I Love My Birthday, and even I Love My Dinosaur! There’s something for everyone to love in this beautiful collection
With 10 amazing titles, including The Ugly Five, Stick Man, The Smeds and the Smoos, Superworm and more, it’s easy to see why this collection makes it in our top 20 favourites! Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are a prolific author-illustrator duo whose collaboration has produced some of the most beloved children's books of the modern era. Their partnership began in the late 1990s and has since become synonymous with imaginative storytelling, memorable characters, and captivating illustrations that have charmed children and adults alike around the world.
The Bluey picture book collection brings the playful spirit and family-centric stories of the TV show to the printed page. These books are designed for young readers and Bluey fans, featuring colourful illustrations that mimic the show's vibrant animation style. The collection includes adaptations of popular episodes as well as original stories inspired by Bluey and her world.
As we celebrate this milestone, we're reminded of the magic that books hold—their ability to transport us to different worlds, to make us laugh, cry, and dream. These 20 books represent just a fraction of the wonders that await in the pages of a good book. We're excited to continue this journey with you, exploring new stories, discovering new authors, and sharing the joy of reading.
Here's to 20 years of Books2Door, and to many more filled with the love of reading! Thank you for being a part of our story.