6th March, 2025
We love books and what better day to show our bookworm pride than World Book Day?
According to the charity, reading improves lives. More than family circumstances, income or educational background, reading for fun is the biggest indicator that children will grow up to enjoy a happier, more successful life.
However, statistics currently show that only 1 in 3 children say they enjoy reading for fun. And unfortunately, in our experiences with young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, that number is even higher.
The onus is always on us as the adults to work with our children to show them the joy in reading, and one of the best ways we can achieve this is through representation. That’s why for this World Book Day, we’re bringing you 10 books every foster carer should have on their shelf. These books cover essential themes of belonging, resilience, emotion and identity – all will resonate with children in care, helping them to feel more seen and capable of being the heroes in their own stories.
Picture Books (Age 3 – 7)
1. The Invisible String by Patrice Karst. A gentle story about an invisible string that connects us to those we love, even when apart. This lovely book is helpful for children struggling with separation and attachment.
2. Maybe Tomorrow? by Charlotte Agell. A touching book about grief, healing, and the power of friendship, ideal for children navigating difficult emotions.
3. The Great Big Book of Families by Mary Hoffman & Ros Asquith. A fantastic, inclusive book that shows families of all shapes and sizes—including foster families—and reassures children that every family is special.
Early Readers (Age 7 – 11)
4. Owen and the Soldier by Lisa Thompson. A beautifully illustrated book about a boy who finds comfort in speaking to a stone soldier in the park—perfect for children dealing with loss and change.
5. The Story of Tracy Beaker by Jacqueline Wilson. A classic tale of a feisty girl in care, helping foster children see themselves in literature and understand that their experiences are shared.
6. The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf. A moving story about kindness, friendship, and welcoming newcomers. A great book for fostering empathy and understanding.
7. Wonder by R.J. Palacio. This powerful book about a boy with facial differences navigating school life is perfect for teaching resilience and kindness.
Early Young Adult (Age 12 – 15)
8. A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll. Follows an autistic girl campaigning for a memorial to misunderstood women—ideal for children who feel ‘different’ or unheard.
9. When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle. This gripping WWII story about a boy sent away from home who forms an unexpected bond with a gorilla is excellent for discussions about displacement and belonging.
Upper YA & Foster Carers (Age 15+)
10. Far From the Tree by Robin Benway. A heartfelt novel about three biological siblings separated by adoption and foster care, exploring identity, belonging, and family in a moving way.
We would love to hear more about your favourite stories, as well as books you think should be on every foster carer’s shelf. Join our World Book Day conversation over on social media.
If you’ve got any questions or would like to find out more about fostering with Capstone, fill out the form below.
An experienced fostering advisor from your local area will then be in touch.
By signing up, you will receive our latest fostering stories every two months.
Start the conversation today. Our team of friendly advisors are on hand to answer any foster care questions you may have. We can offer you honest and practical advice that can help you decide if becoming a foster carer is the right path for you.
