The best gift for a new big brother or big sister

Why the older child deserves their own moment

The arrival of a new baby brings flowers, tiny outfits and endless visitors bearing gifts for the newborn. Meanwhile, the older child watches from the sidelines, suddenly sharing the attention they once had all to themselves. It is a big emotional shift, and many parents, grandparents and friends instinctively want to bring a little something for the sibling so they feel included. The trouble is that yet another cuddly toy or plastic figure rarely lands. What the older child actually craves is recognition of their new status. A gift that celebrates them by name, and honours the important job of being a big brother or big sister, speaks straight to that need in a way a generic present simply cannot.

A story where your child is the hero

Imagine a book where the main character looks like your child and shares their first name, welcoming a new baby into the family. That is exactly what a personalised storybook offers. You upload a photo and a name, and the child becomes the star of a beautifully written, professionally illustrated adventure that runs a full 26 pages. You can choose a theme that fits the moment, including a heartwarming story about getting a baby brother or sister, so the tale mirrors what is happening at home. If you would like to see how the magic works, browse a few sample books or explore the different story themes on offer to match your child's personality.

How it works and how quickly you can have it

Creating the book is refreshingly simple and takes just a few minutes online. You start a new book, add the child's first name, upload a favourite photo and pick the story you like best. Once you have finished, the eBook version is usually ready within about 15 minutes, so you can preview the whole thing almost straight away. If you would prefer something the child can hold, turn the pages of and keep on the shelf, there is an optional hardcover upgrade that is printed and posted to you. It is worth ordering the printed copy early enough that it comfortably arrives before the big welcome, while the digital edition is there to enjoy right away.

A keepsake that outlasts the toy box

Most sibling gifts are forgotten within weeks, but a personalised book quietly becomes part of family life. Reading it aloud together turns into a bedtime ritual, and the child hears their own name spoken as the brave, kind big brother or big sister at the heart of the story. Because each copy is made once, for one specific child, it carries a sense of value that mass-produced presents never manage. Years later it stays on the shelf as a small memento of the day the family grew. If you are weighing up formats or want the full picture before you decide, take a look at the available options and choose whatever suits your family best.

What parents say

Photos and reactions from customers about their personalised children's book.

"Got this for father's day for my partner from our 19 month old and he absolutely loves it and so does my son. He picks up the book and points out Rowan and Dada and it's lovely to see them both reading together."

Kaley Green

"First book great second book just as great and we are thinking up a third book"

Marylynne Leoncavallo

"Great quality and print. Super happy with them. Have told my friends about them also"

Crystal furnival

"I love the book it looks amazing and it's very well made, way beyond my expectations"

Jim hinds

"This was a long-awaited gift for my child. She read the book with great interest, recognized herself in it, and really enjoyed it."

Denys Neofitnyi

"Just Amazing!! With just two photos the illustrations captured my Granddaughter’s expressions wonderfully. The story ironically reflected her interests in art animals and nature. She hasn’t seen it yet as her Birthday is upcoming…Im having difficulty keeping it a surprise. Thank You !!! Great Job!!! Excellent value!"

Nancy Slomba

"I was amazed at how good the quality of this book is and such a lovely story too . I have bought this book as a Christmas present and I just know my granddaughter will love it and always treasure it ."

Angela Dobson

"I had a lot of fun creating this book and the hard book was perfect my child loves it! I did have to go through and change a few pictures to match her personality the spaghetti picture is my favorite."

Rachel Payseno

"This book is perfect. I had it made for my niece she is 7 and autistic. I’ve yet to give it to her but I know she’s going to love it. The story and likeness is so Emilia and the props in the book come to life as I bought earrings, rose - light and the “the crystal of love”.."

Alison Gordon

"Wow my son love his book"

Cosmina Birlean

"The boom is amazing! We love it!"

Cosmina Garcia

"She was thrilled!! She wanted me to read it to her over and over.. this is something she will always cherish.. ❤️"

Angel Cantrell

View all reviews

Frequently asked questions

The digital book is ready to enjoy right away, so you never have to worry about the eBook arriving late. If you want the hardcover, simply order it early enough that it reaches you comfortably before you plan to give it. That way the printed keepsake is waiting when the moment comes.

You add the child's first name and upload a photo, and the main character is shaped around them so the story genuinely feels like their own. You also choose the storyline, including a version about welcoming a new baby brother or sister. Everything else, from the illustrations to the writing, is professionally produced across all 26 pages.

The eBook is the digital version that is ready almost immediately and lovely for reading on a screen. The hardcover is an optional printed upgrade you order on top of it, ideal if you want something tangible to wrap and keep. The choice comes down to your preference and budget, and you can compare both on the pricing page.

Yes, and that is precisely why it works so well. The story puts the older child in the spotlight as the proud big brother or big sister, giving them recognition at a time when attention naturally shifts to the newborn. It helps them feel seen and celebrated in their new role.