Editor’s Note:
This article has been updated and refreshed to reflect our experience using the Tidy Books Box as a long-term storage solution to encourage children’s reading. Any previous giveaways or promotions have now ended.
At around ten months old, Jelly Bean was already showing a real interest in books — something that made me very happy, as reading has always been a big part of family life for us. With older siblings who love stories, it felt like the perfect time to introduce a simple, accessible way for everyone to enjoy books together.
That’s when we brought the Tidy Books Box into our home.
Originally, I planned to place it in the boys’ shared bedroom. But once it arrived, I quickly realised it could be far more useful downstairs. Even though it doesn’t technically match our lounge furniture, I decided to keep it in the living room so the children could easily reach their books without constantly running up and down the stairs.
On one side, we filled it with a rotating selection of the children’s favourite books. On the other, I’ve been using it as a magazine rack and a place to store my current project book — which has made it surprisingly useful for the whole family.
Designed with children in mind
What makes the Tidy Books Box so effective for young children is the way the books are displayed with their covers facing outwards. This simple design change makes a huge difference — children can instantly see their choices and independently select a book, regardless of their height or age.
The box holds a surprising number of books and includes a sturdy carry handle, making it easy to move from room to room if needed (although it does get quite heavy once fully stocked!).
A feature we didn’t expect to love: the clock
One unexpected favourite feature in our house is the clock positioned at one end of the box. Beanie Boy became completely fascinated by it, and we soon started using it as a gentle visual tool to help with daily routines.
If we’re tidying up or getting ready to leave the house, I’ll set the clock hands to the time we need to be ready by. He then keeps an eye on the “real” clock, waiting for it to match. It’s become a fun and calm way to prepare for transitions — and has helped reduce the usual rush and reminders.
There’s also been a fair amount of amusement along the way. His current catchphrase is, “when the clock gets to the big hand, Mummy” — a slightly muddled version of something I’ve clearly said one too many times. I know I should correct him, but it’s one of those small moments that reminds me how fleeting these stages are, so I’m enjoying it while it lasts.
Thoughtful, sustainable design
Like all Tidy Books products, the Books Box is made from sustainable wood and finished with their water-based lacquer, which is better for both the environment and the people producing it. It’s reassuring to know that something designed for children is also created with sustainability in mind.
Final thoughts
The Tidy Books Box has become a natural part of our home rather than just a piece of furniture. It’s encouraged independent reading, made books more accessible, and even helped support daily routines in a calm, visual way.
If you’re looking for a practical, child-friendly solution to store books — while also encouraging a genuine love of reading — this has been a lovely addition to our family space.