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

The news landed like a bombshell, but honestly, it makes perfect sense. Milouska Meulens, a familiar face we’ve known from television for years, is set to write this year’s Children’s Book Week gift book. Yes, you read that right. The presenter who guided us with such warmth through children’s shows and later through programs like Eerste Hulp bij Echtscheidingen (First Aid for Divorce) is trading in her microphone for a pen. And if you ask me, this isn’t just any assignment; it’s the jackpot in the world of children’s literature.

From the Screen to the Writing Desk

Of course, we know Milouska Meulens for her signature calm and empathy. Whether she was in front of the classroom on Het Klokhuis or now guiding families through tough times, she’s always had that unique gift for bridging the world of adults and children. That gift is exactly what the organization behind Book Week managed to secure this year. It’s a dream assignment, she admits. I heard through the grapevine that she didn’t have to think about it for a second; when the call came, the answer was a resounding ‘yes’. Who would 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. Choosing her for this year’s gift book is actually brilliant. The organizers 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 kids, she’s an absolute standout choice.

What Can We Expect?

Of course, we’ll have to wait and see what kind of story she has in store. The Children’s Book Week gift book is always a special freebie you get when you spend a certain amount on books. It’s often a story you can read in one sitting. Expectations are running high. I can imagine her experiences raising her own children and her years of working with youth will play a big role. She knows better than anyone what’s going on in the minds of today’s kids.

Her appointment brings a breath of fresh air. While in recent years the honor often went to established children’s book authors, we’re now getting a surprising—yet oh-so-fitting—choice. She beautifully bridges the worlds of television and literature. It’s not only an honor for her but also a great moment to show that as a presenter, she also has a story inside her just waiting to be told.

• The Big Reveal: The title of the gift book is still a secret, but the announcement of her name is already causing a buzz at bookstores.
• Her Signature: Don’t expect a children’s book filled with simple sentences, but rather a story with the same warm, personal touch we know from her on TV.
• A National Honor: The Children’s Book Week gift book is handed out over a million times annually. For any author, it’s the ultimate calling card.

It’s a celebration for Dutch literature, but especially for the kids. Because who better to tell a story than someone who’s spent their entire life doing what Milouska Meulens does: listening, watching, and being genuinely interested. I’m curious if she’ll bring back a characteristic character from her TV days or come up with something entirely new. One thing’s for sure: as soon as that booklet hits the bookstore shelves in October, I’m grabbing it immediately. And I recommend everyone do the same.

So, mark your calendars. Milouska Meulens as the author of the Children’s Book Week gift book—it’s not just a first; it’s simply the best news for all the bookworms in this country. From a familiar face on the screen to a voice on paper. I can’t wait to read what she has to say.