The best books for the summer holidays

Age 2-4: Sunk! By Rob Biddulph
Penguin Blue is sure to inspire piratical adventure in young shipmates, as he sets sail to discover hidden treasure. But will the sinking ship scupper his plans?£12.99, Harper Collins

Age 2-4: Sun by Sam Usher
The sun is shining and conditions are perfect for a picnic with Grandpa and some unexpected visitors. This has all the characteristics of a classic. £6.99, Templar Publishing

Age 2-4: What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks
Anarchic fun unravels as two cheeky robbers plan to steal the Queen’s crown. Will Ladybird foil their plans? £11.99, Macmillan Children’s Books

Age 5-7: King Coo by Adam Stower
You will never meet anyone quite like King Coo, but if perchance you should, you are in for the time of your life. This book shines with brilliance. £9.99, David Fickling Books

Age 5-7: Enid Blyton Summer Holiday Stories by Enid Blyton 
A nostalgic celebration of the simple pleasures in life – what could be more delightful than a trip to the seaside? £6.99, Hodder Children’s Books

Age 5-7: Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam: Up, Up and Away! by Tracey Corderoy and Steven Lenton
Doughnuts, disguises and doggy detective work are all that’s needed to defeat dastardly Red Rocket. £5.99, Nosy Crow

Age 8-10: Running on the Roof of the World by Jess Butterworth
Join Tash as she ventures across Tibet in search of the Dalai Lama, who may hold the key to rescuing her parents. £6.99, Orion Children’s Books

Age 8-10: The Bolds on Holiday by Julian Clary and David Roberts
Camping in Cornwall has never looked so crazy, as the hyena family hit the coast in chaotic style. A beautifully illustrated, laugh-a-minute romp. £6.99, Andersen Press

Age 8-10: Jake Atlas and the Tomb of the Emerald Snake by Rob Lloyd Jones
When the family go to Cairo on holiday, Jake and Pan’s parents vanish, and it’s up to the twins to find them. £6.99, Walker Books

Interactive: Picture This! by Paul Thurlby
Based on works found in the National Gallery, Paul Thurlby lends his brilliant retro illustrations to this interactive book, sure to promote a life-long love of art. £5, Hodder Children’s Books

Interactive: Out and About: Night Explorer!
This brilliant kit comes complete with torch, star map and glow-in-the-dark stickers, perfect for promoting fun learning. This would make the ideal gift for budding young adventurers. £12.99, Nosy Crow

Activity: Spot the Difference: Things That Go
Stuck in traffic? Little ones will love this vehicle-themed spot the difference book. Vibrant pages encourage observational skills in pre-schoolers. £4.99, Dorling Kindersley