The April New Releases Kids Will Love

With spring in full swing and the school year heading into its final stretch, April is the perfect time for families to refresh reading routines and reignite excitement around books. Longer days and new energy make this a great moment to introduce stories that feel fun, approachable, and rewarding, helping kids stay engaged while continuing to grow as readers.

This month’s newest releases bring together interactive formats, beloved series additions, laugh‑out‑loud humor, and powerful stories kids can’t wait to read. Whether you’re supporting a brand‑new reader, encouraging more independent reading, or looking for new opportunities to laugh together, these April arrivals offer something for every family.

Big Books for Little Readers

For families just beginning their reading journey, My First BOB Books: Alphabet Story Box is a smart and confidence‑boosting starting point. Designed with simple text and phonics‑based learning in mind, this boxed set of 12 books supports letter recognition while helping kids experience the joy of reading real stories on their own. Families will love that it comes with a parent guide packed with tips, games, and activities to build your child's skills.

Pair it with My First BOB Books: Fun with Letters Wipe‑Clean Board Book, an interactive, hands‑on way for kids to practice letters again and again. The wipe‑clean format encourages experimentation without pressure—perfect for little learners who thrive on repetition and play.

Vehicle‑loving readers will dive right into Rescue Trucks, a sturdy board book full of bright visuals and action, while Monster Jam: ThunderROARus Unleashed brings high‑octane excitement to kids who can’t get enough of monster trucks and roaring engines.

Laugh-Out-Loud Picture Books for Families

Some of the best reading moments happen together. How Not to Make a Jelly Sandwich delivers playful instructional humor that invites kids to laugh, predict what comes next, and think creatively about how to approach those classic "how to" assignments! 

For a fun twist on a familiar favorite, There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Shark adds a sea‑faring spin to the classic rhyme kids love to retell. It’s a great choice for repeated read‑alouds and building memory and rhyme recognition.

Favorite Series They’ll Tear Through

Graphic novel fans will be thrilled to revisit Pyrrhia with Wings of Fire Graphix Box Set: Volumes 5–8, a binge‑worthy collection that keeps new readers turning pages and devoted FanWings fully immersed.

The beloved Baby‑Sitters Club Graphic Novel #19: Dawn on the Coast delivers another heartfelt, relatable story about friendship, change, and growing up — topics that resonate strongly as kids navigate social dynamics at school.

Looking for comedy that hooks even the most hesitant readers? Captain Underpants: The First Epic Manga #1 reinvents the classic humor kids love in a fast‑paced, visual format that couldn't possibility be more exciting. With dynamic manga artwork by Japanese artist Motojiro, all-new Flip-O-Ramas, and much more, this is a sparkling new celebration of the 25-year-old series. 

This April, give your child stories that match their interests, support their development, and turn reading into something they genuinely look forward to every day. From first letters and interactive fun to page‑turning adventures and meaningful stories, these new releases help build strong habits that last well beyond the school year.

Looking for even more newly released favorites? Explore more great reads for every age at The Scholastic Store.

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