EK Books

19/07/2025

Before he became a beloved Bondi Rescue lifeguard, Harries was a quiet kid struggling with dyslexia and bullying. But beneath the surface, something special was forming — a gift for sensing danger before it strikes.

Coming this October — a powerful true story about turning difference into strength.

Written by and , and brought to life by , Harries is a moving and uplifting story that reminds young readers their greatest challenges can become their greatest strengths.

Available for pre-order now.

17/07/2025

Coming this September… a shimmering story about standing out, being seen, and learning to love what makes you you.

Boldilocks has hair so dazzling, people can’t help but stare — and honestly, he’s over it. But one visit to the hairdresser (and a little unexpected magic) sets him on a journey of self-acceptance, community, and courage.

Written by and illustrated by , Boldilocks is a joyful celebration of identity that will speak to anyone who’s ever felt a little different — or dazzlingly unique.

Out September 2025. Pre-order now and let your true colours shine ✨

09/07/2025

Boldilocks is a boy with spectacular, shimmering hair, who finds that differences can be difficult to deal with — and that sometimes, it’s best to be bold.

This silly, fun picture book is perfect for preschoolers and up. It challenges gender stereotyping that can offer a narrow definition of what’s acceptable for boys or girls!

Written by Deborah Frenkel and illustrated by Carla Hoffenberg.

01/07/2025

EK Books celebrates the release of seven incredible children's titles in this first half of 2025! 🎉

We applaud the authors, illustrators, and readers who have given these books life in the imaginations of children around the world.

19/06/2025

From heartfelt reunions to unexpected bonds, these picture books explore the power of friendship—how it begins, how it’s tested, and how it brings people (and animals!) together.

Whether it’s a little girl uniting her neighbours, a rabbit making amends, or a boy learning to let go, each story is a gentle reminder that we’re better when we look out for one another.

Which of these friendships speaks to you most? 💛

13/06/2025

The Booksellers Aotearoa NZ Kids' Winter Reading Guide is a handy catalogue designed to excite young readers about books being released this winter. Booksellers Aotearoa NZ

Filled with over 50 incredible titles from Aotearoa's leading publishers, more than half of which are by NZ authors and illustrators, this little guide packs a big punch. Pick up a free copy from your local independent bookshop today!

Illustrations by Pippa Keel Situ (from the book Te Ngahere i te Pō – The forest at night by Kiri Lightfoot – Allen & Unwin NZ)

02/06/2025

An incredible opportunity to celebrate the launch of our latest release, Hidden, with the author!

Suitable for families with children aged 5+

02/06/2025

✨ Now on bookshelves!

A little girl helps her neighbourhood connect in "Hidden" — a touching story about friendship, inclusion and sharing.

Do you ever feel like you can see the whole world, but no one can see you? Hidden amongst the leaves of a fig tree, a young girl watches the people in her street rush past each other — and her — without a glance. So she comes up with a plan… one that involves kindness, generosity, and a lot of figs.

Written by Larissa Ferenchuk and illustrated by Fiona West , Hidden is a heart-warming story that shows how one small act can help a whole community feel seen and included.

Full of hope and heart, this picture book is the perfect way to introduce young readers to the power of sharing and the importance of belonging.

Available now in Australia, New Zealand, the UK and the USA — wherever good books are bought and borrowed.

26/05/2025

🌟 New Release Alert! Verity Finds Her Voice is now available!

Verity is a shy preschooler who always does whatever others tell her. She picks up after her friends, has no say in games, and even plays second fiddle to a drooling baby. But when she is overlooked at her beloved swimming class, Verity realises something needs to change — and discovers the courage to speak up.

Verity Finds Her Voice will help children learn that not only is it okay to be assertive, but that being a good friend to yourself is just as important as being a good friend to others.

Written by Kristin Kelly and illustrated by Jasmine Berry, this story is inspired by real classroom moments — and the quiet kids who are braver than they seem.

Grab your copy today wherever good books are bought and borrowed!

18/05/2025

For a very limited time, get feedback on your manuscript from the EK Books team.

Want to know where your book stands, what may be putting a publisher off, or what makes your book stand out in a publisher's eyes?

Register now! (open through the end of May)

Focus, Assess, Recharge – Manuscript Review Get Clarity, Get Published – Expert Feedback for Children’s Authors from Publishers We’re experienced, real-world traditional book publishers. Our books have won major awards and can be found in bookstores the world over. With over 2000 successful ...

15/05/2025

👀 Coming this June: A quiet moment of connection beneath the branches of a fig tree.

A little girl watches the people of her neighbourhood come and go — always busy, always moving — and wonders how she can help them notice one another. Hidden is a gentle story about inclusion, kindness, and the power of helping others feel seen.

Written by Larissa Ferenchuk and illustrated by Fiona West , this picture book is inspired by real-life moments of childhood wonder and community connection.

More to come soon...

09/05/2025

✨ Big feelings, brave hearts.

These beautifully illustrated picture books explore what it means to be yourself—even when it’s hard. From a boy whose magical hair makes him stand out, to a shy preschooler learning to speak up, to a penguin searching for her purpose, to a little girl with big worries who still finds her moment to shine… each story helps kids navigate emotions, self-expression, and confidence in their own unique way.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just a lover of children’s books, these stories offer gentle lessons wrapped in heart and humor.

📖 Stories that spark big conversations
🎒 Ideal for classrooms, bedtime, or anytime kids need a little courage