The world of children’s literature is ever-evolving. With technological advancements and social changes, children’s book publishers are constantly seeking new ways to engage young readers. From picture books to middle grade novels, the children’s book market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
To help you stay up-to-date on the latest children’s book trends, we’ve compiled insights from industry experts. In this article, we’ll explore what’s in store for 2023 in terms of themes, formats, and representation.
Trend Cluster #1: Interactive Reading Experiences
In a world where technology is constantly advancing, it’s no surprise that children’s book publishers are exploring new ways to make reading a more interactive experience. Interactive reading experiences can enhance engagement with the story, develop critical thinking skills, and encourage exploration and creativity.
Augmented Reality
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital content onto the real world. In children’s books, AR can bring illustrations to life, allowing readers to interact with the story in new and exciting ways. For example, a book might feature an AR component that allows readers to point their smartphone at the page and see the characters come to life in 3D animation. AR can make reading a more immersive experience and help to spark children’s imaginations.
Interactive Illustrations
Interactive illustrations can take many forms, from lift-the-flap books to pop-up books to books with movable parts. In all cases, interactive illustrations allow readers to interact with the book in a hands-on way. For example, a book might feature illustrations that pop up when the reader turns a page, or illustrations that can be pulled out and manipulated to create a new image. Interactive illustrations can help to develop fine motor skills, enhance engagement with the story, and encourage exploration and creativity.
Choose Your Own Adventure
Choose Your Own Adventure (CYOA) books have been around for decades, but they continue to be popular with young readers. CYOA books allow readers to make choices throughout the story, which can lead to different outcomes. For example, a book might feature a branching narrative that allows the reader to choose which path the protagonist takes. CYOA books can encourage exploration and creativity, develop critical thinking skills, and increase the likelihood of repeated readings.
Trend Cluster #2: Fantasy and Magic
Fantasy and magic have been popular in children’s literature for decades, and they are expected to continue to be popular in 2023. These genres allow young readers to explore fantastical worlds and creatures, while also teaching important lessons about friendship, bravery, and empathy.
Magic Realism
Magic realism is a sub-genre of fantasy that blends magical elements with everyday life. In magic realism, the magical elements are often presented as a matter-of-fact, and the story focuses on the characters’ emotional journeys. For example, a book might feature a protagonist who can talk to animals, but the story is really about the protagonist’s relationship with their family. Magic realism can help to teach important lessons about empathy, perspective-taking, and appreciating the wonder of the world around us.
Mythology
Mythology has been a popular subject in children’s literature for centuries, and it’s expected to continue to be popular in 2023. Myths and legends from around the world can provide a rich source of inspiration for authors and illustrators, while also teaching important lessons about history, culture, and values. For example, a book might retell the story of the Greek hero Perseus, who must defeat the monster Medusa to save his kingdom. Mythology can help to teach important lessons about bravery, perseverance, and the power of storytelling.
Science Fiction
Science fiction is a sub-genre of fantasy that explores scientific and technological advancements in a fictional world. In science fiction, authors imagine what the world might be like in the future, or on other planets. Science fiction can be a great way to introduce young readers to STEM concepts and inspire them to think about the possibilities of the future. For example, a book might feature a young protagonist who travels to a distant planet to help terraform the environment. Science fiction can help to teach important lessons about curiosity, innovation, and the power of imagination.
Conclusion
The world of children’s literature is constantly evolving, but certain themes and formats continue to be popular year after year. From diverse representation to interactive reading experiences, children’s book publishers are predicting a variety of trends for 2023. By staying up-to-date on these trends, parents, educators, and young readers alike can discover new and exciting books to enjoy. Explore our bookshelf to create the best book for your kid. Literally, the best.
FAQs
1. What are some upcoming trends in non-fiction children’s books?
Biographies of diverse individuals, books about environmentalism and sustainability, and books about social justice and activism are all expected to be popular in 2023.
2. Will fantasy and magic continue to be popular in children’s literature?
Yes, fantasy and magic have been popular in children’s literature for decades and are expected to continue to be popular in 2023. Magic realism, mythology, and science fiction are all sub-genres that are expected to gain popularity.
3. What are some benefits of wordless picture books?
Wordless picture books can help to develop visual literacy skills, encourage creativity and imagination, and allow for interpretation and discussion.
