Milouska Meulens to Write the 2026 Children’s Book Week Gift: ‘This Is a Dream Come True’

The news landed like a bombshell, but really, it makes perfect sense. Milouska Meulens, the familiar face we've known from our screens for years, is set to write this year's Children’s Book Week Gift. Yes, you read that right. The presenter who has guided us with such warmth through children's programmes and later shows like First Aid for Divorce is swapping the microphone for a pen. And if you ask me, this is no ordinary assignment; it’s the jackpot in the world of children’s books.

From Screen to Writing Desk

Of course, we know Milouska Meulens for her characteristic calm and empathy. Whether she was teaching on Het Klokhuis or now guiding families through tough times, she’s always had that unique gift for bridging the gap between the adult world and the world of children. It’s precisely that gift that the organisers behind Book Week have managed to secure this year. It’s a dream commission, as she admits herself. I heard through the grapevine she didn’t have to think twice; when the offer came, the answer was a resounding ‘yes’. Who’d ever say no to that, right?

This isn’t her first time working with words, but it’s definitely the icing on the cake. Milouska Meulens has shown before that her heart beats faster for stories. The decision to ask her for this year’s gift is, frankly, brilliant. The organisers are always looking for someone who can not only write but also has a story that fits the theme of Children’s Book Week. And with her background as a presenter and her natural connection with children, she’s the absolute perfect fit.

What Can We Expect?

Of course, it’s still a waiting game to see what story she has in store. The Children’s Book Week Gift is always a special present, given away when you spend a certain amount on books. It’s often a story you devour in one sitting. Expectations are high. I can imagine her experiences raising her own children and her years working with young people will play a big role. She knows better than anyone what’s going on in the minds of today’s youth.

Her appointment brings a breath of fresh air. Where in recent years it was often established children’s book authors who got the nod, we now have a surprising yet oh-so-fitting choice. She brings the worlds of television and literature together beautifully. It’s not only an honour for her, but also a wonderful moment to show that a presenter can have a story within them just waiting to be told.

• The Big Reveal: The title of the gift is still under wraps, but the announcement of her name is already causing a buzz in bookshops.
• Her Signature: Don’t expect a children’s book full of simple sentences, but a story with the same warm, personal signature we know from her on TV.
• A National Honour: The Children’s Book Week Gift is distributed over a million times annually. For any writer, this is the ultimate calling card.

It’s a celebration for Dutch literature, but especially for the children. Because who better to tell a story than someone who has spent their entire life doing what Milouska Meulens does: listening, watching, and being genuinely interested. I’m curious to see if she’ll bring back a characteristic figure from her television days, or if she’ll come up with something entirely new. One thing’s for sure: the moment that little book lands in shops in October, I’m popping it straight into my basket. And I’d recommend everyone do the same.

So, mark your calendars. Milouska Meulens as the author of the Children’s Book Week Gift – that’s not just a first; it’s simply the best news for bookworms across the country. From a familiar face on the screen to a voice on the page. I can’t wait to read what she has to say.