Feel like escaping these holidays? Dreaming of travelling again? It’s been a long year, and for most people, the holidays will be spent close to home. As frustrating as that can be, it doesn’t mean you can’t travel. Or at least, armchair travel. Books give us the perfect opportunity to experience the world. They’re also an opportunity for parents to share the world with their children.

This fantastic list of books will not only take you travelling but will also expand your world. Buckle up… but there’s no need to even leave the house.

The Big Book of Festivals by Joanne-Maree Hargreaves and Marita Bullock, illustrated Liz Rowland

What better way to celebrate the holidays in Australia than by learning about holidays and festivals elsewhere in the world? Children will love this stunning illustrated collection of fantastic festivities, crazy celebrations and holy holidays. Learn about graveside picnics, tomato-throwing frenzies, the biggest bathing ritual on the planet… and much more.

Ages 7+

Buy a copy of The Big Book of Festivals here.

The Strangeworlds Travel Agency by L.D. Lapinski

You can’t travel without a suitcase, and at the Strangeworlds Travel Agency, each suitcase transports you to a different world. All you must do is step inside… Pack your suitcase for a magical adventure!

Ages 9+

Buy a copy of The Strangeworlds Travel Agency here.

The Last Fallen Star by Graci Kim

Best-selling author Rick Riordan presents Graci Kim’s thrilling debut which blends Korean mythology with a very modern story. Adopted Korean-American girl Riley Oh discovers her heritage and her magic on a perilous journey to save her witch clan family. This one will really take you on a journey.

Ages 8+

Buy a copy of The Last Fallen Star here.

The Adventure Club #2: Red Panda Rescue by Jess Butterworth, illustrated by Kirsti Beautyman

Tilly has no plans for the summer holidays and is dreading months of boredom – that is until she becomes part of The Adventure Club and wins a place to go track and monitor endangered red pandas in Nepal! Calling all adventurers and animal lovers for this read, as Tilly heads to the Himalayas.

Ages 7+

Buy a copy of Red Panda Rescue here.

Seasons in the City by Megan McKean

What do different seasons look like in cities all around the world? Each spring, Tokyo has cherry blossom season. And in Stockholm, the longest day in Summer has 18 hours of sun. Find out about different seasons, weather events and annual rituals from around the world in this beautifully illustrated book for readers and travellers of all ages.

Buy a copy of Seasons in the City here.