Celebrating children’s books in translation for World Kid Lit Month 2025

 

September is World Kid Lit Month, a time to shine a light on the incredible children’s books in translation that begin life in another language and reach us thanks to the brilliant work of translators. It’s all about celebrating voices from around the globe and making sure young readers have the chance to explore the widest possible bookshelf.

So why are translated children’s books so important? For one thing, they open a window to the world. Through stories originally written in other languages, children can travel to new places, experience different cultures, and see the world from perspectives they might never otherwise encounter. A book translated from French, Finnish or Afrikaans can spark curiosity, empathy, and a sense of connection with children living thousands of miles away.

Translated books are also a reminder that stories are universal. The humour, the adventures, the friendships, and the challenges children face may look a little different from country to country, but at heart, kids everywhere laugh, dream, and wonder about the same things. Reading books in translation helps show children that, despite differences in language or lifestyle, they have more in common with other young people around the world than they might think.

And of course, there’s the pure joy of discovering something new. Translators play a magical role here: they don’t just change words from one language into another, they capture the heart and voice of the story, making sure it feels just as alive, funny, or moving in English as it did in the original. Without them, so many brilliant stories would never cross borders at all.

World Kid Lit Month is a chance to celebrate translators, to spotlight international authors, and to encourage young readers to try something a little different. Picking up a book in translation is like receiving a gift from another part of the world – and who wouldn’t want that?

Here are six fantastic translated children’s books we think young readers will love in 2025:

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The Pinchers and the Diamond Heist by Anders Sparring and Per Gustavsson (Sweden)

This riotously funny story introduces the Pinchers, a family of crooks who just can’t seem to get crime right. With slapstick humour, quirky illustrations, and plenty of chaos, this Swedish gem is perfect for readers who love series like Horrid Henry or Tom Gates.

Movies Showing Nowhere by Yorick Goldewijk (Netherlands)

Winner of the Dutch Children’s Book of the Year, this is a moving, thoughtful novel about searching for connection and hope in unexpected places. Perfect for older middle-grade readers, it’s a beautiful example of how translated literature can broaden horizons and spark big conversations.

The Blue Book of Nebo by Manon Steffan Ros (Wales)

Originally written in Welsh, this award-winning novel is set in a post-apocalyptic Wales and told through the alternating voices of a mother and son. It’s haunting, lyrical, and deeply thought-provoking — proof that kids’ books in translation can be just as powerful and poetic as adult fiction.

The Girl With Wings by Jaco Jacobs (South Africa)

One of South Africa’s most celebrated children’s authors, Jaco Jacobs delivers a heartfelt and funny tale about friendship, resilience, and daring to dream. Translated from Afrikaans, it’s a fantastic read for tweens looking for stories full of warmth and courage.

Miss Cat: The Case of the Curious Canary by Jean-Luc Fromental and Joëlle Jolivet (France)

Meet Miss Cat, the chic feline detective with a knack for solving mysteries. Bursting with bold, stylish illustrations and witty storytelling, this French picture book is perfect for younger readers who love animal adventures and clever capers.

Me and the Robbersons by Siri Kolu (Finland)

When Maisie is kidnapped by a family of sweet-toothed bandits, her summer holiday takes a wild and hilarious turn. Translated from Finnish, this anarchic adventure is full of chocolate heists, laugh-out-loud moments, and a surprising amount of heart.

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Whether it’s a laugh-out-loud family caper, a moving coming-of-age story, or a beautifully illustrated picture book, children’s books in translation offer something special for every reader. This World Kid Lit Month, why not pick up one of these gems and let your child experience the magic of stories from around the world?

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