There’s something special about gifting a book to someone during the holidays.

The way their eyes widen, the way a story becomes part of their world, the way reading together builds memories that last way beyond the holidays. 

This year, Penguin Young Readers brings a gorgeous lineup of books, box sets, and irresistible giftables for readers of every age and personality.

Here are the standout picks that will make your holiday shopping feel joyful, intentional, and full of heart.

For Building That First, Magical Library

World of Eric Carle: My First Sight Words Box

A bright, inviting 12-book set that blends early literacy with the charm of Eric Carle’s iconic illustrations. A perfect way to help emergent readers fall in love with words.

My First Ezra Jack Keats Library

A beautifully packaged collection of three beloved board books, including The Snowy Day, bundled for easy gifting. Perfect for cozy reading with little ones.

For Kids Who Think in Color and Creativity

The Big Crayon Box

All three bestselling Crayons picture books united in one cheerful slipcase. Funny, expressive, and endlessly re-readable, it’s a gift guaranteed to brighten any shelf.

For Kids Who See Heroes Everywhere

Ordinary People Change the World: A Box of Heroes

Five uplifting, kid-friendly biographies that make real-life role models feel accessible, inspiring, and fun.

For the Young Reader Who Loves Solving Clues

Encyclopedia Brown Detective Box Set

A classic collection for budding detectives who love riddles, sharp observation, and clever twists.

For Kids Who Love to Laugh Till They Can’t Breathe

A vast variety of Mad Libs, from Stranger Things to Dirty Dancing, to editions dedicated to Wicked, Caitlin Clark, Olivia Rodrigo, and Beyoncé. These are the stocking stuffers that guarantee giggles.

For Young Adults Drawn to Powerful, Emotional History

The Expanded Ruta Sepetys Collection

Five deeply moving novels by the award-winning author is a remarkable set for readers who love stories that resonate long after the last page.

For Fantasy Fans Who Love Beautiful Editions

Heir Deluxe Edition

A stunning special edition with exquisite design details, perfect for collectors and superfans.

An Ember in the Ashes Complete Series Box Set

Four bestselling novels reimagined with bold new artwork and exclusive features. A must-gift for epic fantasy lovers.

For Readers Who Cherish Everything About Oz and Wicked

Two gorgeous Wizard of Oz editions, one with Rifle Paper Co. art and one with shimmering foil and character-inspired coloring, make for editions that are true keepsakes.

For Teens Hungry for Adventure and Imaginative Worlds

The Last Tiger

A visually stunning fantasy inspired by family history, packed with courage, culture, and high-stakes danger.

The Secret Astronomers

A beautifully illustrated epistolary novel about connection, serendipity, and the quiet magic of found friendship.

For Teens Who Want Romance with Real Emotional Weight

Sloan Harlow Boxed Set

Two dark, twist-filled romantic thrillers perfect for readers who love secrets, tension, and complicated relationships.

For the Future Literary Scholar (or Austen Girlie)

The Jane Austen Gift Set: Puffin in Bloom Collection

A breathtakingly designed three-book set that is thoughtful, elegant, and totally display-worthy.

For Animal Lovers with Big Hearts

Meet the Wild Things Series 

Adorable, educational, and full of wonder, this one is ideal for sparking an early appreciation for wildlife and conservation.

For Kids Who Want Books as Silly as Their Imaginations

Zebra and Yak: The Backwards Alphabet Book

A hilarious alphabetical adventure told from Z to A.

Don’t Trust Fish

A wildly funny picture book that fully leans into its absurd sense of humor.

For Kids Who Love Stories About Friendship and Kindness

Winnie the Pooh and Me

A sweet celebration of companionship featuring one of the most beloved bears of all time.

Madeline Says Be Kind

A gentle reminder of kindness, community, and care wrapped in classic Madeline charm.

For Swifties and the BeyHive (Little and Big)

From the toddler-friendly Tiny Idols Beyoncé to the middle-grade guide What Are Taylor Swift’s Eras? these are instant wins for young music fans.

For Kids Who Cannot Get Enough BLUEY

Two irresistible Bluey books, one heartfelt graphic novel story and one joyful pop-up adventure, will guarantee to bring joy for Bluey fans and beyond.

For Readers Who Love Chaotic Comedy and Big Imagination

Dory Fantasmagory returns with another hilarious escapade full of energy, whimsy, and heart.

For Young Readers Fascinated by WWII-Era Adventures

Two thrilling reads, one espionage-driven novel and one code-cracking mystery, are perfect for kids who love action and history woven together.

For Fantasy Lovers Ready for Something New and Bold

Tyger and Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls bring magic, mystery, and atmospheric world building that young readers will sink into completely.

For Epic-Quest Enthusiasts

Dragonborn and Chronicles of Whetherwhy deliver soaring adventure, heartfelt character journeys, and richly imagined magical worlds.

For Monster-Loving, Action-Obsessed Readers

The newest installments from The Last Kids on Earth universe bring humor, danger, and high-energy monster chaos perfect for binge-reading.

For YA Readers Who Believe in Love, Fate & Possibility

You’ve Found Oliver offers a touching romance filled with grief, destiny, and connection.

The Raven Boys graphic novel brings iconic YA fantasy to vibrant visual life.

For Fans of an Undeniable Classic

Two stunning The Outsiders editions, one an oral history, the other a Broadway-inspired collectible, make them ideal gifts for lovers of the iconic story.