Choosing the Bookbuzz Primary books
A lot of time and consideration goes into choosing the Bookbuzz Primary books to ensure each pack includes a curated selection of diverse and inclusive fiction and non-fiction titles across fiction across a range of genres, book types and reading levels.
The list of fantastic 2026 Bookbuzz Primary books will be announced in early May.
The expert panel
Bookbuzz Primary books are chosen by an independent panel of experts. The panel includes Key Stage 2 teachers, English leads and teachers in charge of their school’s library.
The panellists are carefully selected for their experience, knowledge and passion for getting children reading. Each year’s panel is different, and members come from different parts of the country, from both rural and urban communities, and with differing experience, expertise and perspectives.
The selection process
To start the process, publishers are invited to submit recommend books for the programme. This year we received over 450 books for Bookbuzz Primary! BookTrust’s Books Team creates a longlist from these submissions.
Each panellist then has around eight weeks to read a selection of the longlist, up to twenty books each. That’s a lot of reading for just two months!
We then hold a selection meeting where the panel members meet with the BookTrust team to discuss the books. They explore what they liked and didn’t like, what they think children will love, and which books they recommend for the final Bookbuzz Primary list.
It’s a lot of fun and there are some great debates, especially when different panellists have different opinions! Through these discussions, the longlist is narrowed down to the titles that the panellists think are the best for the programme.
What do they look for?
The books are carefully chosen to offer a range of different reading experiences and to ensure there is something to suit all interests and reading levels. From keen readers to reluctant ones, and from advanced readers to those for whom reading is a challenge, the panel makes sure there are suitable books for every pupil receiving Bookbuzz Primary.
BookTrust believes every child has the right to access books. Some Bookbuzz Primary titles are selected to offer something different, such as a dyslexia-friendly print, or non-fiction to dip in and out of, or a book with less text.
And of course, the selection panel looks for books that will be fun, exciting and engaging to support children to build a reading for pleasure habit and become lifelong readers.
I was really pleased with the books we selected. They were engaging and contemporary, in a range of formats and covering a lot of themes. Many of the books demonstrated authentic representation, both with the characters and the creators. I think all the books we selected will be ones that pupils (and staff) are genuinely excited to read.
Year 5/6 Teacher and English Lead, 2026 Bookbuzz Primary panellist
When selecting books for Bookbuzz Primary, I looked for titles with strong, original concepts that would immediately capture children’s interest and make them want to keep reading.
Year 4 Teacher, School Librarian and Reading for Pleasure Lead, 2026 Bookbuzz Primary panellist
What I look for when selecting books for Bookbuzz Primary are any books that children enjoy, that show themselves in some way or ignite discussion and enthusiasm. Having a variety of books is critical so that all children can find something for them.
Year 6 Teacher and English Lead, 2026 Bookbuzz Primary panellist
Register now for Bookbuzz Primary
For just £3.65 a pupil you’ll receive a book and bookmark for each participating child along with a launch pack featuring 32 new, high quality, diverse and inclusive books for your school, a supportive programme guide and grab-and-go resources.
Register now