Children’s Books Statistics 2024

Introduction

Children’s Books Statistics: Reading from a young age develops the mind and personality. Moreover, children’s books hold a special place because they act as gateways to a world of wonder and learning. They spark a love of reading by being fun and engaging, with vibrant illustrations and stories that capture a child’s imagination. These stories not only entertain but also help build essential skills like reading, vocabulary, and critical thinking. Children’s books can also be a source of comfort and connection, fostering a love of language and creating lasting memories between caregivers and children who read together. Let’s understand the current market through these recent Children’s Books Statistics.

Editor’s Choice

• In 2023, the market size of Children’s Books was valued at approximately $12.3 billion. By 2024, it is expected to grow to around $13.5 billion, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 4.5%.
• On average, one in four books sold in the USA belongs to the children’s fiction book genre.
• According to a Statista survey, in the United Kingdom, the majority of children who enjoy reading books are between 8 and 11 years old.
• Sales of interactive books increased 10% from 2022 to 2023 and are expected to continue growing in 2024.
• In 2023, Manga was the most popular genre among Japanese residents. On the other hand, picture books/children’s books took place on the other end.
• The majority of the younger generation said they sometimes read books. In 2023, the rate of avid readers was less than 20%. Moreover, 18.6% of teenagers and young adults said they never read any books.
• Children’s Books Statistics estimate that By 2028, the market is projected to reach approximately $16 billion, maintaining a steady CAGR of around 4-5%.
• In 2023, graphic novels accounted for 15% of children’s book sales.
• In Russia, children’s books written by Korney Chukovsky contributed the highest number of copies in circulation, with more than 1.1 million in 2023.
• According to a report, What Kids Are Reading, by RenaissanceSpace in 2023, children aged 5 to 6 are more likely to read and understand fictional books than nonfiction.
• Children’s Books Statistics report that children who read for fun are likely to achieve higher academic performance in their lives.

General Children’s Books Statistics

• On average, one in four books sold in the USA belongs to the children’s fiction book genre.
• According to a report, What Kids Are Reading, by RenaissanceSpace in 2023, children aged 5 to 6 are more likely to read and understand fictional books than nonfiction.
• In a similar report, J.K. Rowling’s fairy tale novel The Christmas Pig, published in 2021, recorded positive critical reviews and thus became a bestseller.
• As of today, Zeke Meeks by D.L. Green is the most popular book series among children aged 3 to 5 years.
• In the United Kingdom and Ireland, based on The Guardian’s publication, children read around 35% more books in 2023 than in 2022.
• Children’s Books Statistics study revealed that 77% of parents are likely to share books with their children even before they turn 1 year old.
• 95% of the parents believe that reading is important for their child’s growth.
• Furthermore, 28% of parents said they find it difficult to make their child read easily.
• In 2023, a report, Children and Young People’s Reading in 2023, by the National Literacy Trust found that 43.4% of children between 8 to 18 years old enjoy reading in their free time.
• 80% of the children aged between 6 and 17 read e-books for fun, but 62% said they prefer physical books over e-books.
• In 2023, one out of three households said they could buy fewer books for their children because of a financial crisis.
• Penguin Random House releases approximately 85,000 titles every year, including 70,000 in digital formats and 15,000 in print formats.

Top 10 Most Popular Children’s Book Authors

According to a report, What Kids are Reading, by RenaissanceSpace in 2023, the following are the 10 most popular Children’s book authors worldwide.

• Jeff Kinney
• David Walliams
• Roald Dahl
• J.K Rowling
• Julia Donaldson
• Roderick Hunt
• Francesca Simon
• Alice Oseman
• R.J. Palacio
• Suzanne Collins

Children’s Books Statistics By Country

United Kingdom

Enjoyment of Reading Among UK children  

(Source: statista.com)

According to a Statista survey, in the United Kingdom, the majority of children who enjoy reading books are between 8 and 11 years old. The share of children enjoying reading sessions has been above 50% since 2005. On the other hand, children aged 11 to 14 years have contributions of less than 50%.

Types of Frequent Activities Performed Among Children in Germany in 2023

Germany

(Reference: statista.com)

Children’s Books Statistics 2023 show that, in the mentioned year, 65.8% of children chose to read books. Reading books followed other activities such as watching TV, movies, or videos on TV (84.6%) and music (82%) respectively. The remaining media activities that were most consumed were listening to audiobooks, podcasts, and radio shows and reading comic books, magazines, and daily newspapers.

Number of Book and Brochure Titles Published in Russia by Theme

Russia

In 2023, political and social-economic literature was the most published genre in Russia. Children’s Books Statistics by country reported that around 12,235 children’s literature books were published in the same region.

(Source: statista.com)

Most Published Children’s Literature Authors in 2023 By Circulation

(Source: statista.com)

Children’s books written by Korney Chukovsky contributed the highest number of copies in circulation, with more than 1.1 million in 2023. Moreover, books by Alexander Pushkin and Elena Ulyeva collectively circulated 1 million copies.

Japan

Most Popular eBook Genres in 2023

In 2023, Manga was the most popular genre among Japanese residents. On the other hand, picture books/children’s books took place on the other end. Comparatively, other book genres shared less than 500 popularity.

(Reference: statista.com)

Argentina

Children’s Day Expenditure By Category

(Reference: statista.com)

During Children’s Day the previous year, Argentinians spent around 7,643 pesos on books. However, footwear and leather goods, audio and video equipment, cell phones, and accessories contributed more than 28,000 pesos equally.

Hong Kong

(Reference: statista.com)

The majority of the younger generation said they sometimes read books. In 2023, the rate of avid readers was less than 20%. Moreover, 18.6% of teenagers and young adults said they never read any books

Top 50 Children’s Books of All Time

BBC.com recently published the greatest children’s books of all time. Each of the following books is a must-read for every child.

(Source: bbc.com)

Children’s Book Market Size in 2024 and Beyond

The global children’s book market has shown steady growth over the years. In 2023, the market size was valued at approximately $12.3 billion. By 2024, it is expected to grow to around $13.5 billion, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 4.5%. This growth is driven by increasing literacy rates, rising awareness of the importance of early childhood education, and the growing popularity of reading as a leisure activity for children.

Trends in Children’s Book Demands Worldwide

• Digital Transformation: There is a significant shift towards digital books and interactive e-books. In 2023, digital books accounted for around 20% of the market, and this figure is expected to rise to 25% in 2024. Parents and educators are increasingly favoring e-books for their interactive features and convenience.
• Educational Content: Books with educational content, especially those focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, are in high demand. These books help children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills from an early age.
• Diverse and Inclusive Stories: There is a growing demand for books that reflect diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Parents and educators are looking for stories that promote inclusivity and empathy among children. In 2023, books featuring diverse characters saw a 15% increase in sales, a trend expected to continue in 2024.
• Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Themes: Books that focus on environmental awareness and sustainability are becoming popular. Stories that teach children about the importance of protecting the planet are seeing increased interest.
• Series and Franchises: Children’s book series and franchises continue to dominate the market. Popular series keeps readers engaged with familiar characters and ongoing storylines. In 2023, series books made up 40% of children’s book sales.

Most Preferred Types of Children’s Book Genres

• Picture Books: Picture books remain a favorite among young children and their parents. With their vibrant illustrations and simple text, picture books are crucial for early childhood development. Children’s Books Statistics reported that about 30% of the picture books market was in 2023.
• Interactive and Activity Books: These include pop-up books, touch-and-feel books, and books with puzzles or games. They are particularly popular among toddlers and young children. Sales of interactive books increased 10% from 2022 to 2023 and are expected to continue growing in 2024.
• Fantasy and Adventure: Books that transport children to imaginary worlds filled with adventure and excitement are highly popular. Series like “Harry Potter” and “Percy Jackson” continue to captivate young readers.
• Educational and Non-fiction: Books that provide factual information about the world, such as biographies, history, and science books, are increasingly sought after. These books help satisfy children’s curiosity and support their learning.
• Graphic Novels: Graphic novels have gained immense popularity among older children and pre-teens. They combine visual storytelling with text, making reading a fun and engaging experience. In 2023, graphic novels accounted for 15% of children’s book sales.

Future Outlook

The children’s book market is expected to continue its upward trajectory beyond 2024. The emphasis on early childhood education, the rise of digital learning tools, and the growing awareness of diverse and inclusive storytelling will keep driving market growth. By 2028, the market is projected to reach approximately $16 billion, maintaining a steady CAGR of around 4-5%.

Conclusion

The demand for children’s books will likely remain strong, with publishers focusing on innovative content that combines education, entertainment, and inclusivity. The rise of digital platforms and the continued popularity of physical books will ensure a balanced market catering to diverse preferences and needs, as identified in the Children’s Books Statistics.

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