Favorite Books for Toddlers

As parents we are passionate about fostering imagination in our children. A key to encouraging their active imagination is developing a love for reading!

There's no better feeling than picking out a new book to read. The hard part is figuring out which one to choose with so many options! We're sharing some of our favorite books for toddlers and young readers, so you can spend less time searching and more time reading with your little ones.

Note: Some of the links below will direct you right to Amazon for a quick and easy purchase, and as an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases.

Ish (Creatrilogy) by Peter Reynolds

Ramon is perfectionist and slowly learns that thinking ‘ish-ly- is far more wonderful than ‘getting it right.’

Reading Age: 3 - 8 Years

Grade Level: Kindergarten - 4th

The Dot by Peter Reynolds

Follow along in Vashti’s classroom as she learns to draw and discovers her creative spirit.

Reading Age: 4 - 7 years

Grade Level: Kindergarten - 4th

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett

This original, bestselling tale of edible weather is brought to life in this timeless classic that your kids are sure to love.

Reading Age: 3 - 7 years

Grade Level: Preschool - 3rd

Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney

This sweet story about a parent’s love for their child is a beloved childhood classic and a family household must-have.

Reading Age: 1 - 3 years

Grade Level: Preschool and up

Big Red Barn by Margaret Wise Brown

From the author of Goodnight Moon, learn all about the daily life on a farm in this rhythmic story with beautiful painted pictures.

Reading Age: 1 - 3 years

Grade Level: Preschool and up

Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

Armed only with an oversized purple crayon, young Harold draws himself a landscape full of wonder and excitement. This board book is perfect for your toddlers at bedtime.

Reading Age: 2 - 4 years

Grade Level: Preschool - 1st

A Treeful of Pigs by Arnold Lobel

This funny, engaging tale follows the struggle of a witty farmers who is too busy sleeping to help his wife.

Reading Age: 3 - 9 Years

Grade Level: Preschool - 3rd

Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton

This modern classic tells the story of how Mike and His Steam Shovel dig deep canals for boats to travel through, cut mountains passes for trains and hollow out cellars for city skyscrapers.

Reading Age: 2 - 6 Years

Grade Level: Preschool - 3rd

Curious George by H.A. Rey

Your kids will love the funny antics that this adorable little monkey, George, gets into.

Reading Age: 2 - 4 Years

Grade Level: Kindergarten - 3rd

The Berenstain Bears and the Messy Room by Stan Berenstain

While we love most of the The Berenstain Bears books, this particular one is a favorite. It’s a great tactic for creatively teaching children how important keeping a tidy room is!

Reading Age: 2 - 6 Years

Grade Level: Preschool - 2nd

For some great gifts ideas that encourage reading and learning for toddlers and young children, check out one of our favorite giftable brands, Tickle & Main.