Book Week is one of the most exciting times of the school year. It encourages children to celebrate books, use their imaginations, and show off their creativity through dress-ups.

But for many parents, finding a fun and affordable costume can be a challenge, especially when you’re short on time. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune or have sewing skills to pull together a great Book Week outfit.

Whether your child wants to be a fairy, a wizard, or a chocolate factory worker, there are plenty of simple and low-cost ideas out there. Here are 15 Book Week character ideas for kids that are fun, easy, and budget-friendly.

1. Harry Potter

You can’t go wrong with the boy wizard. All you need is a school uniform (or dark clothes), a scarf, a stick for a wand, and a lightning bolt scar drawn on the forehead. If you have glasses, even better.

2. Matilda (from Matilda by Roald Dahl)

Matilda is a sweet and simple choice. A blue dress, a red ribbon in the hair, and a stack of books under the arm—done. It’s a great costume for kids who already love reading.

3. Oompa Loompa (from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory)

Oompa Loompa costumes are colourful, recognisable, and perfect for Book Week. You can create the look with white overalls (or pants with suspenders), a brown or green top, and orange face paint. Add a green wig or style your child’s hair with coloured spray for extra fun. It’s a great group costume if siblings or friends want to match.

4. The Cat in the Hat

This Dr Seuss classic never goes out of style. All you need is a black outfit, a red bowtie, and a striped hat (which you can make from cardboard). A bit of face paint for whiskers completes the look.

5. Alice (from Alice in Wonderland)

Alice is another easy costume idea. A light blue dress, a white apron, and a black headband will do the trick. She can also carry a small stuffed rabbit or teacup to add to the theme.

6. The Very Hungry Caterpillar

You can make a simple caterpillar costume using green clothing and attaching coloured paper or fabric “segments” to the back. A red beanie with felt eyes makes for a cute and comfortable headpiece.

7. Where’s Wally

This is one of the easiest and most popular Book Week costumes. A red-and-white striped shirt, blue jeans, round glasses, and a red beanie are all you need. You can often find these items second-hand or in your child’s wardrobe already.

8. Willy Wonka

Pairing nicely with the Oompa Loompa, Willy Wonka is colourful and whimsical. Dress your child in a purple coat or blazer, add a bowtie, and top it off with a top hat. You can even give them a golden ticket prop for fun.

9. The Paper Bag Princess

This is a great option for a last-minute costume. All you need is a brown paper bag or craft paper made into a dress (or tunic-style top). Add a messy hairstyle and a toy dragon or book to carry.

10. Little Red Riding Hood

Red Riding Hood is timeless and easy to assemble. A red cape, a simple dress, and a basket with a snack inside is all you need. You could even add a soft toy “wolf” if your child wants to go the extra mile.

11. The Gruffalo

If your child has a brown onesie or top and pants, this costume is mostly about the details. You can create horns, ears, and facial features using felt or paper and glue them to a headband. Draw on some fangs and a warty nose to finish the look.

12. Pippi Longstocking

A fun and playful character, Pippi’s costume can be made with mismatched clothes, stripy socks, and plaits that stick out sideways (using pipe cleaners or wire). Add a few freckles with face paint or eyeliner.

13. Hiccup (from How to Train Your Dragon)

If your child loves dragons, this is a great Book Week choice. A green or brown shirt, dark pants, and a toy dragon are all it takes. Add a belt or a DIY vest for extra flair.

14. Pig the Pug

Based on the popular Aussie book series, Pig the Pug is a funny and simple idea. Use a pug-themed mask or face paint, pair it with beige or white clothes, and carry a copy of the book.

15. Hermione Granger

For girls who love the wizarding world, Hermione is a fantastic choice. A school uniform, wand, and book are all she needs. Style her hair in loose waves or curls, and you’re good to go.

Final Tips for Book Week Costumes

• Keep it comfortable: Your child will likely be wearing the costume all day at school, so make sure it’s easy to move in.
• Use what you have: Before heading to the shops, look around the house or ask friends if they have anything you can borrow.
• Involve your child: Let them help choose and put together the costume. It’s a great way to build excitement and creativity.

Book Week should be a time for kids to feel inspired by reading—not for parents to stress about costumes. With these fun and budget-friendly ideas, your child can join in on the fun without breaking the bank.