Join Bex from the children's radio station Fun Kids as she meets top authors who tell her about their books and also read us chapters from them. Plus, Bex and friends recommend their favourite kids books of the month. You can listen to Bex on Fun Kids (weekdays from 4pm) on DAB Digital Radio across the UK, on the free Fun Kids app, and online at funkidslive.com Plus, when you become a Fun Kids Podcasts Plus subscriber, you get this show – and 30 others! – ad-free and support the work Fun Kids does in bringing you high-quality, entertaining, and safe content for your family. Find out more at FunKidsLive.com/plus
In this episode of BookQuest, weâre stepping off the edge of the map and into lands where the shadows are alive. Whether youâre dealing with ancient spirits in an enchanted woods or trying to stop a war between humans and dragons, youâre going to need some serious inner strength! On the Shelf This Week: Bec Manser joins the show to introduce her magical debut fantasy, Wildheart. Follow Nettle as she breaks the rules and enters the forbidden, ghoul-infested Dryda Forest to save her sister. Along the way, she must face her deepest fears and decide who the real monsters are. Struan Murray also features with the epic sequel, Dragonborn: The Twilight Child. Having discovered her true identity as a dragon, Alex Evans is thrown into a dangerous quest to stop a war against humanity. Together with her friends, she must journey north to battle ancient demons and master her fearsome powers. Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/06/2026 ⢠22:18
In this episode of BookQuest, weâre looking at what happens when ordinary kids are thrown into the absolute deep end of history and myth. Whether youâre dodging air raids or outsmarting skeleton armies, survival takes some serious teamwork! On the Shelf This Week: Tony Bradman joins the show to introduce Tales of Cobb Street Commandos. Walk into the chaos of World War Two alongside Jimmy and his friends, who refuse to just hide from the air raidsâinstead, they form their very own commando unit to protect their neighborhood. Clare Pollard also features with Othernauts, a hilariously fresh retelling of the classic Greek myth of Jason and the Argonauts. Follow eleven-year-old Phoebe as she stows away on a legendary quest full of harpies, sea monsters, and skeleton armiesâaided by a crew of kids whose "powers" include unreliable shapeshifting and headache-inducing siren singing. Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
03/06/2026 ⢠22:21
In this episode of BookQuest, weâre leaving the ordinary world behind to explore dangerous islands and ancient destinies. On the Shelf This Week: Ollie George Clark joins the show to talk about his epic fantasy adventure, Youngest Faircrest. We follow a young hero trying to survive a world of danger and discovery while balancing massive family expectations and unlocking hidden powers. Natasha Farrant also features with her sweeping adventure, The Children of Wolf Rock. Set on a wild, remote island, this gripping tale follows two children whose courage is put to the ultimate test by nature, ancient secrets, and the fight for survival. Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
27/05/2026 ⢠26:30
In this episode of BookQuest, weâre stepping into the shadows and blasting off into space! Weâre tracking down clues, unlocking dangerous secrets, and asking what it takes to solve a mystery when the truth could change everything. On the Shelf This Week: David Solomon joins the show to discuss his fast-paced mystery adventure, Spyglass. We follow our heroes as they dive into a world filled with secrets, hidden danger, and unexpected twists where every single clue counts. Laura Anderson also features with her fun sci-fi adventure, Star Kitties: Detective Kitty. Join a clever detective cat as they solve mysteries, crack cases, and cause absolute chaos among the stars. Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
20/05/2026 ⢠23:15
In this episode of BookQuest, weâre balancing on the edge of high-stakes history and total social disaster. Whether youâre dodging bullets or embarrassing parents, the quest for survival is real! On the Shelf This Week: Sufiya Ahmed joins the show to discuss her gripping novel, Under Fire. We follow a young girl navigating friendship and identity during WWI, standing tall against prejudice as her community becomes a personal battlefield where every choice matters. Katie Kirby also features with her hilariously chaotic new book, The Seriously Epic Holiday of Lottie Brooks. Join Lottie as she tries to survive a family trip packed with awkward crushes, diary-worthy disasters, and the struggle to keep her cool when everything goes spectacularly wrong. Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
13/05/2026 ⢠18:18
This week on BookQuest, weâre exploring two incredible historical stories about girls facing impossible odds and making tough choices. On the Shelf This Week: Iszi Lawrence joins the show to talk about Doomsday, a heart-pounding race through 1348. As the Black Death spreads, one girl must navigate a world of fear, suspicion, and superstition to survive the plague. Karen McCombie also features with My Family the Enemy, a moving story of loyalty and conscience. This emotional tale follows a girl navigating friendship and identity when her familyâs views put her at odds with everyone around her. Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
06/05/2026 ⢠24:25
In this episode of BookQuest, secrets, suspense, and undercover adventures take centre stage. Jennifer Liss joins the show to talk about a gripping story where nothing is quite what it seems and every detail matters, keeping readers guessing at every turn. Holly Webb also features with a thrilling tale of spies, secrets, and bravery, as one girl is drawn into a world of hidden missions and unexpected danger.Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29/04/2026 ⢠19:49
In this episode of BookQuest, we dive into two gripping interviews packed with mystery and suspense. First, Tara and Darren Kloss join the show to talk about their dark and thrilling story, filled with shadows, danger, and hidden truths waiting to be uncovered. Then, Emily Hourican chats about her stylish and twist-filled mystery, where secrets lurk beneath the surface and nothing is quite what it seems.Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
22/04/2026 ⢠19:17
This week on BookQuest, weâre diving into a world of words and imagination with Poetry Pizza by Simon Mole, serving up poems that turn everyday moments into something funny, surprising and a little bit magical. Weâve also got George and the Dragons by George Webster, a warm, adventurous story packed with dragons, courage and the excitement of stepping into a world where anything can happen.Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
15/04/2026 ⢠20:58
This week on BookQuest, things get a seriously high-tech twist with DadBot 2 by Jack Noel, where family life turns chaotic when dad becomes more machine than man. Weâve also got Beastie Bros: Dungeons & Dragonfiles by David O'Connell, a fast-moving adventure filled with monsters, mysteries and plenty of unexpected trouble. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
08/04/2026 ⢠17:27
This week on BookQuest, weâre diving into ridiculous comedy with Far Out Five and Olaf Falafel, a twist-filled adventure packed with unexpected moments and big laughs. Weâre also heading into a dark, icy mystery with The Frozen Curse by Jacob North, where secrets run deep and something isnât quite right beneath the surface. And Katy Hessel joins us to explore The Story of Art Without Men, uncovering the brilliant women artists who helped shape art history but donât always get the spotlight. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
01/04/2026 ⢠29:53
This week on BookQuest, weâre blasting off into space with Tola Okogwu and Champions of the Galaxy, a fast-paced adventure where ordinary kids are thrown into an intergalactic battle. Weâve also got Ben Davis and Postman Planet, a funny sci-fi story where a simple postal mission turns into total chaos. And Ben Miller joins us with Dreadful Dragon, a magical adventure full of surprises, danger and one very unforgettable dragon. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
25/03/2026 ⢠30:45
In this episode, we dive into two brilliant stories packed with imagination, chaos, and big âwhat ifâ questions. First, The Night I Borrowed Time by Iqbal Hussain follows a boy who discovers he can freeze time. It sounds like the perfect way to fix mistakesâbut he soon learns that playing with time has consequences he never expected. Then, we meet The Overthinkers Club by Nat Luurtsema, where a group of kids with wildly active imaginations turn everyday school life into a whirlwind of hilarious overthinking, awkward moments, and unexpected adventures. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18/03/2026 ⢠24:47
This week, weâre diving into three brilliant books packed with heart, mystery and magic. First, The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Rauf tells the story of a group of classmates who notice the new boy is quiet, lonely and far from home â and decide to come up with a plan to help him. Then, The Blitz Sisters by Judith Eagle takes us to wartime London for a gripping mystery, as two sisters uncover secrets, face danger and navigate the chaos of the Blitz. And in Skandar and the Secret Element by A. F. Steadman, Skandar is pulled even deeper into a thrilling world of elemental magic and fierce unicorns, where powerful new abilities bring even bigger challenges. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11/03/2026 ⢠30:02
Itâs the most wonderful time of the year and Bex is celebrating in style with a very special World Book Day episode of Fun Kids Book Quest! First up, Bex is joined by Chris Lloyd, diving into Funny FACTopia!: World Book Day 2026: Follow the Trail of 100 Wacky Facts. Get ready for brain-boggling trivia, unbelievable true stories, and the kind of facts thatâll have you racing to tell everyone in your class. Then, itâs time for mischief and mayhem with Sibeal Pounder, chatting all about Chaos at the Chocolate Factory. Expect sweet surprises, sticky situations and plenty of laughs from the world of Roald Dahl's Charlie & The Chocolate Factory Finally, Bex sits down with Nathaniel Lessore to talk about Against All Odds, a powerful & funny story about friendship, resilience and finding your place when the world feels stacked against you. Three brilliant authors. Three amazing books. One epic World Book Day celebration. Grab your favourite book, dress up as your favourite character, and join Bex for an adventure packed episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
04/03/2026 ⢠29:46
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Quest! We're diving into an adventure with Abiola Bello in Wild Magic: Journey of the Lost Elephant, where a lost elephant sparks a magical journey full of surprises... Then, unravel secrets and chase treasure in Alexander Armstrongâs Evenfall: The Golden Linnett, a thrilling tale of hidden mysteries and daring heroes. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
24/02/2026 ⢠21:26
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Quest! First up, Hana Tooke draws us deep into the eerie world of Skulkmoor,  a dark, atmospheric adventure packed with secrets, danger, and twists you wonât see coming. Itâs the kind of place where nothing is quite what it seems⌠and every shadow has a story. Esme Higgs joins us to talk about her latest book, The Pony Whisperer, co-authored with Jo Cotterill, a heartfelt and hopeful story about trust, kindness, and the powerful bond between a girl and her pony. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18/02/2026 ⢠18:01
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Quest! Weâre kicking things off with author and illustrator Ken Wilson-Max, who joins us to chat about The Big Green, a bold, hopeful look at our planet, bursting with big ideas about nature, community, and how small actions can make a real difference. Then, things take a spooky turn as Sibeal Pounder drops by to introduce Fright Club. A fast-paced, mysterious story packed with strange happenings and creepy twists, perfect for brave readers who love a good chill. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11/02/2026 ⢠20:19
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Quest! Elle McNicoll brings us Role Model a powerful and funny story about finding your voice, standing your ground, and refusing to be told who you should be, even when the world expects you to fit in.And Sathnam Sanghera takes us on a journey through Britainâs past with Journeys of Empire, exploring how the empire shaped the world around us, from everyday objects to the stories we still tell today.  That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
04/02/2026 ⢠23:33
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Quest! First up, itâs Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Book of Anansi by Angie Thomas, a fast-paced fantasy inspired by African American folklore, full of magic, myth, and an extraordinary destiny. Then thereâs Wild Journey by A.M. Dassu, a daring adventure across continents, packed with courage, resilience, and the power of friendship. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28/01/2026 ⢠18:32
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Quest! This week on BookQuest, weâre taking you on an epic adventure through time with Krystal Sutherland and Martin Seneviratne, whose thrilling story brings the past and present together with twists, big ideas, and high-stakes action. Then, we swap time travel for the football pitch with Alex Bellos and Ben Lyttleton, exploring the beautiful game like never before. From mind-bending facts to surprising science and incredible stories, this book will change the way you see football forever. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
21/01/2026 ⢠22:08
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Quest! This weekâs episode is all about growing up, with all its big emotions, brilliant friendships, and moments of not quite knowing where you fit yet. Weâre joined by Katya Balen, who tells us all about her brand-new book Letters from the Upside: Callie Chaos, a story packed with heart, humour, and the wonderfully complicated business of figuring yourself out. Then, we slow things down with Robin by Sarah Ann Juckes, a quiet but powerful story exploring friendship, fear, and what itâs like when youâre trying to make sense of the world without having all the answers. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
14/01/2026 ⢠19:27
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Quest! Get ready for snowstorms and serious silliness as Alex Milway brings a burst of winter chaos to Book Worms, with frosty fun, unexpected guests, and plenty of animal mayhem. And the fun doesnât stop there! Liz Pichon joins the party with more mischievous pets, outrageous moments, and the kind of laugh-out-loud chaos that fans of her books know and love. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Quest!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
07/01/2026 ⢠21:10
Get Judge Bex now: https://podfollow.com/judgebex Welcome to the hilarious family courtroom of Judge Bex! Bex settles two dramatic disputes: Isla versus her dad âFishboyâ over unfair bath time rules, and Hattie versus her homework-happy dad, who wants three hours of maths daily. With special guest Hugh Bonneville weighing in and creative verdicts all round, Judge Bexâs judgments are fair, funny, and final! Got your own family drama to resolve? Let us know at https://www.funkidslive.com/podcast/judgebex/Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
06/01/2026 ⢠17:59
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Worms! Today we have a very special episode, we revisit some of the wonderful authors we've had on Book Worms over the past year as Bex recalls her favourite books of 2025, month by month. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book WormsJoin Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
31/12/2025 ⢠41:45
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Worms! This week on Book Worms, we kick off with chaos in the treetops in The Day the Jungle-net Broke, a wild adventure full of humour and heart. Festive magic follows in How to Grow a Reindeer, where Christmas cheer grows in the most unexpected ways. Robin Stevens adds a mystery with a seasonal twist in A Stocking Full of Spies. And we finish with Stephen Mulhernâs Unbelievable, packed with mind-bending tricks, surprises, and show-time energy. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Worms!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
24/12/2025 ⢠42:47
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Worms! Brian Bilston brings his signature wit and wordplay with A Poem for Every Question, a clever and surprising collection that will make readers laugh, think, and see the world in a new way. Julie Sykes whisks us away on a cosmic adventure in Luna Grace: Girl from Outer Space, a fun and heartfelt story filled with bravery, friendship, and plenty of starry excitement. Emma Carroll offers a darkly funny twist on a classic tale with Dracula & Daughters, packed with surprises, humour, and a fresh take on familiar fangs. And TV legend Hugh Bonneville shares warmth and charm in Rory Sparkes & The Elephant in the Room, a moving story about big feelings, empathy, and finding your spark. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Worms!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/12/2025 ⢠33:27
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Worms! Weâre kicking things off with Nat Harrison and The Girl Who Raced Across the World, an exhilarating adventure about courage, discovery, and pushing your limits. Next, Christopher Edge brings us Fear Files, a brilliantly spooky dive into mysteries, frights, and the science behind what gives us chills. Get ready for a spooky investigation! Danny Robins is here with Do You Believe in Ghosts?, bringing eerie tales, real-life investigations, and a heavy dose of supernatural intrigue. And to finish, Lauren Child returns with Charlie & Lola: I Am Wishing Every Minute for Christmas, a festive and heartwarming celebration of the holidays. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Worms!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
26/11/2025 ⢠43:18
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Worms! Stevie Derrick kicks things off with Science Detective Agency, where curious minds crack scientific mysteries one clue at a time. Then, Phillipa Leathley brings Inkbound, a story bursting with imagination, adventure, and the magic of storytelling. MC Grammar returns with The Adventures of Rap Kid, a rhyme-filled journey all about rhythm, words, and finding your voice. And finally, Dermot OâLeary joins the fun with Toto the Ninja Cat and the Pirate Treasure Hunt, a laugh-out-loud caper packed with action and a dash of feline mischief. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Worms!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/11/2025 ⢠38:01
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Worms! First up itâs Molly Oldfield with Everything Under the Sun: All Around the Worldâa fascinating journey answering curious questions from kids everywhere. Next up is Steve Cole and Astrosaurs: Mission to Infinity, a fast-paced space adventure bursting with action, dinosaurs, and plenty of laughs. And finally, weâre off to the countryside with Kaleb Cooper from Clarksonâs Farm to talk Kalebâs Farmyard Tales, a heart-warming collection of stories from life on the farm. That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Worms!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28/10/2025 ⢠25:12