5 really great new kids’ books that’ll make perfect stocking fillers this Christmas

It's the gift that keeps on giving.

One of my best friends (who is also my little boy's Godmother) happens to also be working in the world of children's books. This, combined with the fact that she is also a total bookworm herself, has ensured that whenever Christmas or their birthdays roll around, my children know that the presents coming from this particular 'auntie' will always be books. Every time. And to them – and me – books really are the best gifts. Thanks to her, we have read (and re-read) The Day the Crayons Quit approximately four million times, she got us our very first copy of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and at this stage, it is fair to say that a large chunk of the books in their bedroom bookshelves come from her. Books are a gift for your imagination. And studies upon studies 1. There's an Elf in your Book Little kids will love this adorable interactive book by Tom Fletcher, where a cheeky little elf is trying to see if they will be going on the nice or naughty list this Christmas. Elf will ask questions to make sure – but watch out, he might have a trick or two up his sleeve! 2. The Christmasaurus and the Winter Witch 'She is the best-kept Christmas secret of all,' whispered Santa Claus. 'Which is surprising, because Christmas itself would not exist without her. She is older than time itself, yet still as young as tomorrow. She is known only as the Winter Witch.' This beautiful book is full of magic, heart and humour, and I am going to bet the entire family is going to love this enchanting Christmas read. 3. How will Santa find us? If ever there was a book that deserves a place on bookshelves around the land this Christmas, it is 'How will Santa find us.' The moving and oh-so-relevant tale tells the story how when a little girl and her younger brother are left with nowhere to stay for Christmas, they are forced to move from place to place. Their parents distract the children by taking them on a journey through their imaginations, and everywhere they visit becomes an exciting new world. But with all this moving around, where will they end up on Christmas Eve? And most importantly, how will Santa find them? 4. The President's Surprise 5. GIY's Know It Almanac Oh, what a joy of a book – and one I bet parents will love just as much as the kids. GIY’s Michael Kelly and Dig in Diner’s Muireann Ni´ Chi´obha´in join forces with award-winning illustrator Fatti Burke to bring you a riotous, fully-illustrated kid’s almanac guide to growing and cooking food through the year. Narrated by GIY’s mercurial Grower-in-Chief Monty Sheddington Potts, this incredibly funny, visually ground-breaking book will fire up your child’s imagination and passion for growing and cooking food. It’s packed with veg characters, amazing monthly projects that your children can do in the garden, and seasonal recipes to bring it all to life. A perfect companion guide for parents and teachers who want to connect their children to food.