National arts organisation Children's Books Ireland has launched its reading guide, 'The Best Irish Books of 2026', timed to coincide with pupils returning to classrooms for the new school year. The publication features more than 100 titles written or illustrated by Irish creators, aimed at young readers up to 18 years of age.

The annual initiative is designed to foster a love of reading for pleasure while encouraging families, educators, and librarians to support home-grown literary talent. The guide encompasses a wide range of formats, including picture books, early readers, graphic novels, non-fiction, and young adult literature.

According to Children's Books Ireland, Chief Executive Elaina Ryan and the organisation's advocacy team aim to ensure children across the country see their own lives, culture, and language reflected in the books available to them. The initiative comes alongside wider campaigns by Irish literary organisations to boost the presence of local titles on bestseller lists and in school libraries.

The reading guide is being made available through participating bookshops and public libraries nationwide, as well as digitally via the Children's Books Ireland portal to assist parents and teachers in selecting age-appropriate books.