World Book Day is a celebration of reading and an opportunity to encourage children to explore and rediscover the pleasure of books by providing each child throughout the UK and Ireland with a book of their own.

Thanks to the generous sponsorship by National Book Tokens, schools and nurseries across the country receive over 20 milion book tokens which are then distributed to children to be exchanged for one of twelve special World Book Day Books. These exclusive books are available from participating bookstores (you can find your nearest participating bookshop here) - and you find a list of all of the books below.

World Book Day works. In 2022, the 25th anniversary year, over 2 million special WBD books were printed, giving children and young people the opportunity to choose and own a book. For many children, access to books is a serious issue  - 1 in 7 pupils (13.2%) said the book they had ‘bought’ with their World Book Day book token had been the first book of their own. World Book Day digital events were enjoyed by over 500k children. Last year, the World Book Day message reached 69 million children, a clear measure of success and a tribute to the work of the small team, mostly volunteers, at WBD. There is a full report of the incredible impact World Book Day 2022 made, available here.

World Book Day is about encouraging Reading for Pleasure, and about enjoying and having fun with books. In a positive and creative way to encourage children to engage with books, many schools and nurseries will encourage children to dress up, and bring their favourite characters to life. There are some wonderful and inventive ideas for inexpensive costumes here. You'll also find resources for Nurseries, Primary and Secondary schools, with ideas and information to help you celebrate World Book Day 2023.

This year the World Book Day team want us to Share a Story. We all know how important it is to read to our children, to help develop literacy skills, increase their vocabulary, give them a greater appreciation of the world and instill a lifelong love of books. It is also great fun and a wonderful way to bond with children. Finding a few minutes every day to read with your children will be one of the most rewarding gifts you can give so join the Share A Story campaign and share a story on World Book Day. 

Find a full list of all the UK £1/€1.50 World Book Day below, with introductory videos from the authors and illustrators.

Available in Ireland Only:

One Stormy Night by Alma Jordan and Margaret Anne Suggs, published by The O'Brien Press

Rita agus an Dragún by Máire Zepf and Mr Ando, published by An tSnáthaid Mhór

And available in Wales Only:

Gwisg Ffansi Cyw by Anni Llŷn, published by Y Lolfa

And for more information visit www.worldbookday.com

World Book Day is a small, registered charity relying on the support of National Book Tokens, contributing publishers, booksellers and private benefactors.