With the festive season already upon us, parents will no doubt be snapping up presents for their children over the coming weeks.

Writing for the Irish Independent, Sarah Webb claimed that Christmas is a great time to buy books for youngsters.

"Children need stories that will transport them to other worlds - tales of love, hope, triumph over adversity and redemption," she commented.

Ms Webb noted that the "stimulating ideas squeezed between the covers of a good book can last a lifetime".

She added that this year she has been snapping up titles including Threads and 13 Reasons, as well as Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak.

It is never too early to introduce children to books and for parents with toddlers and young children, Ms Webb recommended Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes by Mem Fox.

In related news, the Independent reported earlier this year that the majority of this year's must-have Christmas toys are all priced below 50 euros.

Written by Donal Walsh

Comments