Scholastic predicts next big children’s book trends

Kindness, empathy, book anniversaries, humor and reimagined classics are among Scholastic's top trends in kids books for 2017.
December 21, 2016

Scholastic’s reading club editors have forecast kindness, book anniversaries, humor and reimagined classics as some of the top trends in kids books to look out for in 2017.

Examining how 2016’s news headlines can give children a false perception that the world is unkind and hostile, the publisher pinpoints forthcoming books for younger children, including How Do Dinosaurs Stay Friends? (pictured) by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague and What Does It Mean To Be Kind? by Rana DiOrio and Stephane Jorisch, that teach the importance of empathy, openness and sharing.

For older children looking for stories about unexpected friendships, Scholastic has its eye on 2017 titles such as The Kindness Club by Courtney Sheinmel and perennial bestseller Wonder by R.J. Palacio.

Another big trend on Scholastic’s radar is the reintroduction of modern classics to a new generation of readers. Titles launching next year to watch for include the 30th anniversary of The Magic School Bus, the 25th anniversary of Goosebumps and the 20th anniversary of Captain Underpants.

As for what kids worldwide want the most when they choose books, Scholastic’s latest Kids & Family Reading Report finds that funny or “laugh out loud” books are the most desirable.

Among new books targeting the funny bone next year are Moby Shinobi: Ninja on the Farm by Luke Flowers and Super Happy Party Bears: Knock-Knock On Wood by Marcie Colleen and Steve James.

Scholastic also predicts that reinvented classics, including Super Red Riding Hood by Claudia Davila for younger readers and Geronimo Stilton’s new line of titles based on The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and Alice In Wonderland for older kids, will find success in 2017.

Rounding out the trends, non-fiction books and biographies will help teach children basic skills for discerning accurate information.

More information about Scholastic’s trend list and titles to watch for can be found here.

About The Author
Jeremy is the Features Editor of Kidscreen specializing in the content production, broadcasting and distribution aspects of the global children's entertainment industry. Contact Jeremy at jdickson@brunico.com.

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