Top South African Children's Books 2025
- Lori-Ann Preston
- Dec 18, 2025
- 4 min read
It’s absolutely wonderful to see the rich diversity of top children's books being written, illustrated, and published by South Africans. Here are a few that I loved reading.
LORI-ANN’S TOP PICKS FOR SOUTH AFRICAN CHILDREN'S BOOKS 2025
LUNA'S JOURNEY: A TALE OF GRIT & COURAGE
Written by Shareez Bagaria, Illustrated by Rouxmia Roest
In this early chapter book, little Luna learns to be brave and overcome her fears with the help of her mummy. This story will certainly encourage young readers to discover their inner strength.
BONGI BALLERINA: TAKES A BOW
Written by Kristien Potgieter, Illustrated by Cristy Zinn
Bongi and her friends are having the best time using their imaginations to act out a haunted scene. When Miss Michelle announces that their next ballet production will be Cinderella, Bongi worries that she’ll have to wear pink! This story leaves you with a great big smile on your face.
THE 13TH DAY IN CHENGDU
Written by De Wet Hugo, Illustrated by Luan Serfontein
Ooh… what a captivating read! I love how each chapter ends with a cliffhanger, encouraging you to keep reading. It was intriguing to explore Henry’s life, a South African boy discovering a new world in Chengdu, China. An excellent choice for young teens!
A SONG FOR SMILEY
Written by Wendy Maartens, Illustrated by Nikè Bekker
Smiley the dolphin is enjoying a wonderful swim in the ocean with his mom. The pair befriend two humans, Leila and her dad, while surfing. The two dolphins become trapped in plastic and are washed ashore. Fortunately, Leila and her dad are there to help. It’s a charming story that celebrates friendship while highlighting the dangers of plastic in the oceans.
NEO'S INVISIBLE BLANKET
Written by Salamina Mosese, Illustrated by Subi Bosa
Neo looks up to his older sister. One day, she gives him an invisible blanket. This blanket helps Neo become brave. As the story unfolds, Neo learns an important lesson about believing in himself. This book features the most gorgeous, big, bright illustrations that every young child will fall in love with. Yay! For Neo!
SHOW AND TELL
Written by Marleen Lammers, Illustrated by Bronwyn Webb
It’s Show and Tell day at school. Each child introduces their family. One learner feels somewhat nervous because she thinks her family is "different." It’s a delightful story celebrating the acceptance and diversity of families. I loved it – I even had a good chuckle at some parts, especially the ostriches.
DREAM HOUSE ADVENTURES
Written by Lauren O’Connor-May, Illustrated by Nadine Wiese
At night, Verity’s house used to take her on adventures. One night, the house stopped taking her on adventures because she had grown up. Instead, she went on real adventures with her family. Over time, it is Verity’s younger sister who learns the secret of the magical Dream House. It’s a charming story about family and the comfort that using your imagination can bring.
DANCE TO YOUR OWN BEAT
Written by Refiloe Moahloli, Illustrated by Gabi Boy
Zazi loves to dance all the time, even though she sometimes receives strange looks from others. Zazi dreams of performing at the upcoming concert. She is very nervous, but with encouragement from others, she follows her dream. It’s a lovely story about self-belief, facing fears, and the importance of staying true to yourself.
THE FEATHERED FIVE
Written by Roslynne Toerien, Illustrated by Rachel Nyman
Many birds complain about the loud noise the Hadedas are making, until the Weavers point out that their own squawking is much worse and that each bird should be proud of how they are. The birds are in a tither as they have a special party to attend. It’s a bird-utiful book!
PUMPKIN AND THE HIDDEN HEROES
Written by Bianca Flanders, Illustrated by Zinelda McDonald
Pumpkin’s father introduces her to the hidden heroes who collect the rubbish in the dark. Pumpkin goes looking for more heroes who perform silent acts of kindness. It’s a lovely story for children to see just how wonderful being kind can be.
VAMPI, THE FLYING GUINEA PIG
Written by Lori-Ann Preston, Illustrated by Theodore Key
(Of course, I had to add my own titles, hee, hee.)
Imagine Flint’s shock when he finds a vampire guinea pig! One who talks with an Afrikaans accent, has fangs, and… can fly! Join Flint in this funny, delightful, and seriously bonkers adventure sure to keep older children entertained for hours.
CLUMSY CLAY
Written by Lori-Ann Preston, Illustrated by Thabiso Gcwensa
Writing these stories was an absolute joy. Even though Clumsy Clay faces many challenges and his life is full of wobbliness, his kind-hearted nature makes him the hero of each tale. The importance of kindness shines brightly throughout every adventure.
And there you have it - my 2025 favourites! I must say, I’m genuinely impressed by the outstanding artwork featured in every book. The artistic talent in South Africa is remarkable. If you haven’t read these yet, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy, get comfortable, and let the adventures begin!
Comments