10 Best Welsh Reading Books For Children And Learners

Want a fun way to learn and improve your Welsh skills? Start reading!

Books are a great way to learn a bunch of new words and see how they’re used in sentences. While you might not understand everything at first, it’s an effective way to get exposure to the language and pick up grammar rules organically.

Starting with Welsh children’s books will ease you into the language gently. They tend to have less complicated sentence structures and use simpler vocabulary than books for adults. Plus, they often come with illustrations that can help you understand what’s going on.

We’ve put together a list of our top 10 Welsh books for children and learners of Welsh as a second language. The list is arranged from simplest to most difficult, so you can gradually challenge yourself as you become more confident with the language.

Anrheg Nadolig Taid (Grandpa Christmas)

Mia’s grandfather writes her a letter every Christmas, and in it, he tells her about the fun they used to have together in the garden. He’s worried that the things he loves – like frogs and earthworms – are in danger, and he asks for Mia’s help to protect them.

This 42-page book is perfect for kids aged 2-6 who want to learn more about the environment and how they can help make a difference.

Wwsh ar y Brwsh (Room on the Broom)

This delightful story follows a kind-hearted witch and her loyal cat as they fly through the sky on their broomstick. But when a gust of wind suddenly blows away the witch’s hat, bow, and wand, it becomes a scramble to get them back.

Luckily, a group of animals finds the missing items and agrees to return them in exchange for a ride on the broom. But can the broomstick hold all of them? And when the witch gets into trouble with a dragon, will her new animal friends be able to save her?

With charming illustrations and engaging text, this 32-page book is perfect for shared reading with children aged 2-5.

Y Llew Tu Mewn (The Lion Inside)

This heart-warming rhyming story is about a little mouse who, through determination and courage, finds his voice and discovers that all animals have an important role to play in life.

Filled with beautiful illustrations and a positive message, this 32-page book is perfect for readers aged 2-6.

Casgliad Mawr – Roald Dahl Collection

Welsh learners rejoice! This 14-book collection of Roald Dahl classics has been adapted into the Welsh language. Translator Elin Meek has done an excellent job in bringing these beloved stories to life, and they are perfect for children aged 7 to 12.

With over 1700 pages of content, this set is a must-have for anyone looking to improve their Welsh skills. Among the tales included are Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Twits, The BFG, James and the Giant Peach, and Matilda. Each one is filled with Dahl’s trademark humor and wit, making them a joy to read again and again.

This is one book set every Welsh learner needs in their collection!

Pecyn Saith Selog (The Secret Seven)

If you’re a fan of mysteries and adventures, then this 6-book collection by Enid Blyton is perfect for you!

The Secret Seven series has been entertaining children for generations and follows the adventures of a secret society that holds regular meetings and organizes things to do.

With exciting stories ranging from solving crimes to playing games in the woods, there’s something for everyone in this collection.

Perfect for ages 7-9.

Llyfrau Henri Helynt: Henri Helynt (Horrid Henry)

Looking for a hilarious and entertaining read? Look no further than Horrid Henry, the first book in the popular series.

This book contains four stories that will have you laughing out loud. In the first story, Henry is dragged to dancing classes against his will. In the second story, he competes with Moody Margaret to make the yuckiest Glop. The third story finds Henry going camping in France, and in the fourth story, he tries (and fails) to be good like Perfect Peter.

Ideal for children aged 7-10, this 94-page book is a quick and enjoyable read.

Y Biliwnydd Bach (Billionaire Boy)

Twelve-year-old Joe has everything money can buy. His own bowling alley? Check. Movie theatre (cinema)? Check. Butler who is also an orangutan? Check. But Joe has one burning desire: to make a friend.

Joe’s search for companionship takes him on a hilarious journey that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt alone in the world. Along the way, Joe discovers that money can’t buy everything – but it can certainly buy him a whole lot of fun.

“Billionaire Boy” by comedian David Walliams is a touching and funny story about the importance of friendship and finding your place in the world. At 240 pages, this book is suitable for older readers and more advanced learners, from 8+ years onward.

Tintin: Braint y Brenin Ottokar

In Tintin: King Ottokar’s Sceptre, our intrepid hero finds himself in the small kingdom of Syldavia. He soon discovers that there is a conspiracy against the young king, Muskar XII.

The conspirators plan to steal the ancient Sceptre of King Ottokar, which is a symbol of the new king’s right to rule. Tintin must help the king before it’s too late!

This 62-page book is perfect for ages 8 – 12 and is sure to keep readers well entertained.

Harri Potter a maen yr Athronydd (Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone)

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know Harry Potter. He’s the young wizard who takes on the evil Lord Voldemort and saves the world from certain destruction.

Well, now you can read all about his adventures in Welsh!

In this first installment of J.K. Rowling’s iconic series, Harry is just starting his journey. He’s learning about his magical powers and discovering the secrets of his past. It’s an exciting, fast-paced read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

If you’re looking for an engaging, exciting story that will transport you to another world, look no further than Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

At over 300 pages, this book is perfect for readers aged 7-12, or learners looking for a challenge (as there are lots of new, complex words to learn).

Llinyn Trons

Looking for a great young adult novel that tackles tough issues? Look no further than Llinyn Trons. This contemporary book tells the story of a group of GCSE students as they learn to work together on an outdoor adventure course.

From friendships to failures, this book is full of insights and exciting moments. Plus, it tackles important themes like environmentalism, lust, and mental health. If you’re looking for a page-turner that will keep you hooked, you’ll love this book.

This 99-page book is suitable for older readers and advanced learners over the age of 12.

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So there you have it – 10 of the best Welsh books for children and language learners. With such a wide variety of genres, themes, and difficulty levels, there’s sure to be something here for everyone.

When you’re done here, we’ve got some more Welsh content for you! If you’re interested in watching some Welsh-language movies, check out our post The Best Welsh-Language Films to Watch.

Or read some of our favorite Welsh proverbs, complete with English translations, audio, and illustrations.