Welcome back to our ‘Reading Rivers’ series, where we explore how our waterways inspire the written word. Today we’re looking at 10 brilliant books for young readers, so join us as we dive into a world of watery fun!
1. 'River' by Anne-Kathrin Behl (Ages 0+)
A gem for the littlest of nature lovers, this illustrated book is a great introduction to rivers. Colourful scenes are brought to life with sliders that animate ducks, dragonflies, otters, and other amazing animals. The illustrations are accompanied by rhyming facts that have a bouncing rhythm - ideal for reading aloud.
2. 'I Am Oliver the Otter' by Pam Ayres (Ages 3+)
Whether zooming through the water or bounding along the riverbank, Oliver the otter spends most of his time alone. When he meets another otter - a female called Ottilie - his solitary life changes forever. This sweet story is packed with otter facts, but the rhyming poetry and vibrant illustrations keep it entertaining.
3. 'The River' by Tom Percival (Ages 3+)
Rowan and his river have a special relationship: they can be both happy, angry, calm, or excited. When he finds himself struggling one winter, the river freezes too - can a wildlife encounter help to get his feelings flowing again? With illustrations capturing the changing seasons, this touching story uses nature imagery to reassure readers about life's challenges.
4. 'I Talk Like a River' by Jordan Scott (Ages 4+)
For a boy who struggles to communicate, going to school is filled with embarrassment and anxiety. But when a peaceful river walk prompts wise words from his dad, the boy finds strength in the rhythms of the water. Calming illustrations and a heartfelt story make this a quietly powerful book about self-acceptance and connecting with nature.
5. 'Once Upon a Raindrop' by James Carter (Ages 7+)
Where does water come from? How does it move, and what does it sound like? Poetry flows around rivers, clouds, and raindrops in this imaginatively illustrated book. Together, the words and images describe a journey with no end or beginning: our world's water cycle. Readers are sure to learn new words and impressive facts about the "world wide wet".
6. 'The Secret City' by Katya Balen (Ages 7+)
Every week, Clem, Ash, and Zara go "mudlarking" - hunting for treasure on the banks of the River Thames. When water starts behaving strangely, the friends realise that one of their finds is particularly special. Can they return the lost treasure in time to save their home? Learning meets adventure in this weird and wonderful trip to Underwater London.
7. 'Rivers' by Libby Walden (Ages 7+)
If a river is constantly changing, is it still the same river? This educational book explores the dynamic nature of these habitats by showing how they have shaped the world around them. It's full of incredible facts about the plants and animals that are found in rivers across the globe, and uses bright illustrations to explain their place in the landscape.
8. 'The Wind in the Willows' by Kenneth Grahame (Ages 9+)
When Mole comes up from underground, he's surprised by the busyness of the riverbank. Before long, he and his new friends Badger and Ratty (actually a water vole) are drawn into the schemes of the reckless Mr. Toad. Can our heroes save Toad Hall from intruders? With its loveable characters and absorbing story, it's easy to see why this book became a classic.
9. 'Song of the River' by Gill Lewis (Ages 9+)
When a flood destroys their valley home, Cari and her mum face an uncertain future. Reintroducing beavers could offer a solution, but some of the other residents oppose the idea. Can Cari convince her community to give these wildlife engineers a chance? The stakes are high in this touching story about making a positive difference for people and nature.
10. 'The River Singers' by Tom Moorhouse (Ages 9+)
Sylvan the water vole is keen to explore beyond his burrow with his brothers and sisters. But when their mum is taken by a mysterious beast, the siblings must leave their home in search of the legendary "wetted land". Will the river guide them to safety? This gripping book plunges you into the wild world of water voles, as Sylvan embarks on a thrilling adventure.
Where to find these books
Keen to immerse yourself in these awesome stories? All of these books can be borrowed from your local Hampshire library! Membership is free, and there is only a small charge if the books need to be brought from another library - it's cheaper and greener than buying them new. Grab your library card today.
If you're a more mature reader, you might like to try our other book reviews or read personal stories that local people have shared through the Tales from the Riverbank project.