2026 Read for Empathy Collection

65 diverse and BRILLIANT books for 3–16+ year-olds perfect to #GOALLIN during the National Year of Reading! 
Through these novels, graphics, picture books, poetry collections, non fiction, and early readers – young people can experience, understand and practise empathy – a learnable life skill at the heart of strong relationships and positive wellbeing. 

For children aged 3-11

For young people aged 12-16+

Discover the books

Click on the books to find out more and purchase titles from Bookshop.org. 10% of each purchase will be donated to EmpathyLab, and throughout February, 10% will also go to Booktrust during the Read it Forward campaign.

An expert panel has selected these 40 brilliant books for children aged 3-11, specifically chosen for their power to boost empathy for, and understanding of, other people’s feelings and life experiences.

Emotions

Picture books

Early readers

Non-fiction

Novels

Graphic novels

An expert panel has selected these 25 brilliant books for young people aged 12-16+, specifically chosen for their power to boost empathy for, and understanding of, other people’s feelings and life experiences.