Drum roll! It's no surprise that we love reading here at HoneyKids. So we've put together a list of our favourite kids' reads for this year.
There’s no doubt about it — here at HoneyKids, we’re big fans of books! We are all about sharing the joy of reading and giving authors a platform to share their amazing stories.
After all, reading is one of the best ways to spark imagination, build empathy, and instil lifelong learning habits in kids. Research shows that reading together strengthens family bonds, boosts language skills, and fosters curiosity in little ones — a gift that keeps on giving.
As 2024 winds down, we’re excited to reflect on the books that have left a lasting impression this year. From charming picture books perfect for bedtime snuggles to insightful reads that made us feel seen and supported, these titles have resonated deeply with families in Singapore.
Dive into our list of the top 10 books that inspired, entertained, and connected us in 2024 — and see which ones might make their way onto your shelf! Plus, this list is sure to be liked by both boys and girls, with options for teens too.
Our favourite children’s books in 2024
1. Ms Jug Finds a Home by Sophia Huang
Best for ages: 3 to 5
Ms Jug is a worn-out milk jug scared of being left alone. Her life changes when she’s taken to a new home and finds a fun, laughter-filled friend. But when their contents run low, will she lose it all? Join Ms Jug on a heartwarming adventure about friendship and the magic of second chances!
2. The ABCs of Old Singapore by Hwee Goh
Best for ages: 3 and above
Things seem to change in a blink of an eye in Singapore these days, so it’s a delight to sit back and learn all about the good ol’ days! Follow the stories of old Singapore and learn interesting legends and facts. From A is for the Annals to Z is for Zheng He, children will delight in learning about Singapore’s history through colourful illustrations dedicated to notable figures, events and ideas.
3. Dog Man: Big Jim Begins by Dav Pilkey
Best for ages: 8 to 11
Dav Pilkey stole the show with Captain Underpants, and he’s back with Dog Man: Big Jim Begins! Join Dog Man and friends as they face the Space Cuties, uncover origins, and prove that bravery and kindness always win. No surprise, it’s a hot favourite with kiddos!
4. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hot Mess by Jeff Kinney
Best for ages 8 to 12
In Hot Mess, book 19 of Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, Greg Heffley faces a hilariously awkward summer packed with family drama, a cramped beach house, and scorching heat — disaster guaranteed!
5. Escape from Bussorah Street by AK Zai
Best for ages 10 and above
How about hitting up a read that is set in one of the hippest neighbourhoods in Singapore? On Bussorah Street, life is bustling but not quite enough for the restless Zak! He wants to be a sepak raga trainer, but his father wants him to pick up the family trade: tailoring. But the war has some very different plans for their lives. Readers are bound to fall in love with Zak and feel invested in some of the tough challenges he faces.
6. Afterlife: The Boy Next Realm by Gina Chew
Best for ages 13 and up
When Kyra’s brother falls ill, she meets a mysterious boy with a haunting connection to her past. In this Southeast Asian-inspired YA fantasy, Kyra and Spirit Keeper Eric team up in a daring mission to save her brother from death itself. This is a story of love, memory, and sacrifice.
7. May the Best Player Win by Kyla Zhao
Best for ages 10 to 12
Perfect for chess-fiends. May Li’s middle-school chess team is headed to nationals, and she’s in the spotlight after winning a top player award. But not everyone’s cheering — teammate Ralph challenges her skills, sparking a high-stakes bet: win the school tournament and become team captain. As pressure mounts, May must rediscover her love for chess to claim victory. Game on!
8. Murdle Jr. by G.T Karber
Best for ages 10 to 12
What’s a top list without a good crime-related read? This one is just up any kid detective’s alley. The Murdle craze provides hours of immersive puzzle- and mystery-solving fun for kids, teens, and families!
9. The Hysterical Girls of St. Bernadette’s by Hanna Alkaf
Best for ages 9 to 12
At St. Bernadette’s, mysterious screams plague the students, tearing through the school’s polished reputation. Khadijah and Rachel must confront the hysteria — and the dark secrets haunting the halls — before the spectre claims its next victim.
10. Secrets of Singapore: Spectacular Sports by Angèle Lee
Best for ages 9 to 12
On your marks, get set, go! Discover Singapore’s sports history, games, events, and heroes in the eighth edition of the action-packed Secrets of Singapore series!
It’s the final day of 2024! Have you hit your reading goals? Fret not; there’s always 2025…
