20 Best Preschool Books to Read Today!

“The mitten was just the right size for Nicki’s hand, but it was too small for a bear!”

Jan Brett’s beautifully illustrated book "The Mitten" tells the enchanting story of Nicki, a young boy who loses his mitten in the snow. As various woodland creatures discover the mitten, they crawl inside, and it magically expands to accommodate them all. From a mole to a rabbit, a hedgehog to an owl, each animal finds warmth and shelter despite their differences. As the mitten stretches to its limit, Brett humorously notes, “The mitten was just the right size for Nicki’s hand, but it was too small for a bear!”

The artistic borders on each page track Nicki's journey to find his lost mitten, adding depth and anticipation. Her detailed illustrations beautifully capture the essence of winter while subtly teaching the lessons friendship and warmth found in working together.  

This bestselling classic highlights the value of teamwork and helping one another. "The Mitten" is not only a visual delight but also a heartwarming reminder that even the most unlikely of friends can form a close-knit community. Brett's distinctive style brings the animals to life with warmth and humor, making it a family favorite.

“Mike Mulligan had a steam shovel, a beautiful red steam shovel. Her name was Mary Anne.”

Virginia Lee Burton’s timeless classic "Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel" has captivated children since its publication in 1939. This beloved tale follows Mike Mulligan and his trusty steam shovel, Mary Anne, as they face the challenge of obsolescence due to the advent of new machines. Determined to prove their worth, they take on a final job in Popperville, showcasing values of hard work, perseverance, and the deep bond between man and machine.

Burton’s detailed illustrations and compelling narrative bring to life the adventures of Mike and Mary Anne, who dig deep canals, cut mountain passes, and hollow out cellars for city skyscrapers. Despite progress rendering them out of work, Mike believes Mary Anne can accomplish in a day what a hundred men can achieve in a week. Their final challenge in Popperville becomes a testament to their friendship and ingenuity, as they strive to save Mary Anne from the scrap heap.

Recognized as a modern classic, "Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel" continues to inspire generations of children with its message of determination and loyalty. This book is a must-read for every child, celebrated for its enduring appeal and timeless lessons.

"In the light of the moon, a little egg lay on a leaf."

Eric Carle’s enduring masterpiece "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" has delighted generations since its publication in 1969. This beloved children’s picture book follows the journey of a very hungry caterpillar as it eats through various foods before transforming into a beautiful butterfly. Designed, illustrated, and written by Carle, the book incorporates key elements of early childhood education, including counting, the days of the week, and the life cycle of a butterfly.

The interactive die-cut pages make this sturdy board book edition perfect for little hands, enhancing the learning experience for young readers. The book’s engaging plot and vibrant collage illustrations capture the curiosity and imagination of children, making it an ideal gift for new babies, baby showers, birthdays, and other special occasions.

With over 50 million copies sold and translations into more than 60 languages, "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" is celebrated as one of the greatest childhood classics of all time. Its iconic art style and innovative design have earned it numerous awards and adaptations for television. This classic story continues to inspire and educate, teaching children the joy of reading through its enchanting narrative and beautiful illustrations.

"He wondered how his nana always found beautiful where he never even thought to look."

"Last Stop on Market Street" is a 2015 children's book by American author Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson. It won the 2016 Newbery Medal, a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor, and a Caldecott Honor. The story follows a young boy named CJ, who learns to appreciate the beauty in everyday things during a bus ride with his grandmother. De la Peña and Robinson, drawing on personal experiences, explore themes of race and class through the eyes of a child.

The book received widespread acclaim, with positive reviews from Kirkus Reviews and The New York Times Book Review. Its Newbery win was notable, as picture books rarely receive this honor. In 2018, "Last Stop on Market Street" was adapted into a children's musical performed by various theater groups across the country.

This award-winning book is an inclusive ode to kindness, empathy, gratitude, and finding joy in unexpected places, celebrating the special bond between a curious young boy and his loving grandmother. Every Sunday after church, CJ and his grandma ride the bus across town. CJ wonders why they don’t own a car, have an iPod, or avoid the dirty part of town. His grandma’s encouraging answers help him see the beauty and fun in their routine and surroundings. Matt de la Peña’s vibrant text and Christian Robinson’s radiant illustrations bring this energetic journey through a bustling city to life.

“You're always so focused on your favorite colors. How about giving us other crayons a chance to shine?”

"The Day the Crayons Quit" is Drew Daywalt's first children's picture book, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers and published by Philomel Books on June 27, 2013. This humorous and colorful story was a critical and commercial success, selling over one-and-a-half million copies worldwide. The idea originated from a box of crayons on Daywalt's desk, inspiring him to give each crayon a unique voice through letters of resignation.

Poor Duncan just wants to color, but when he opens his box of crayons, he finds letters from his crayons who have had enough. Blue crayon needs a break from coloring all those bodies of water, Black crayon wants to be used for more than just outlining, and Orange and Yellow are not speaking to each other because each believes he is the true color of the sun. Daywalt's engaging text and Jeffers' bold illustrations make this book a must-have for new parents, baby showers, back-to-school, or any time of the year.

The book received widespread acclaim, including positive reviews from Publishers Weekly and The Washington Post. It has won numerous awards, such as the 2013 Goodreads Choice Award for Best Picture Book, and has held a record spot on The New York Times Best Seller list for children's picture books. In 2014, Universal Studios purchased the film rights for the book.

"The Day the Crayons Quit" is an entertaining story about the frustrations and demands of a box of crayons, teaching children about creativity and problem-solving in a fun and engaging way.

"Go, dogs, go! The light is green now."

"Go, Dog. Go!" is a 1961 children's book written and illustrated by P.D. Eastman. This engaging book follows a group of lively dogs as they operate various vehicles, engage in work and play, and ultimately pursue the goal of a grand dog party. Through simple language and humor, the book introduces concepts such as colors and relative positions ("The blue dog is in. The red dog is out.") and teaches children basic actions like playing, working, going up, and going down.

The dogs use their cars and other conveyances to get their work done and travel to different places. Throughout the story, Eastman's illustrations encourage readers to notice the deeper significance of small details. For example, a pink dog repeatedly asks a yellow dog if he likes her hat. Initially, he does not, but as the story progresses, their interactions show a developing relationship, culminating in his eventual approval of her elaborate hat.

Edited by Dr. Seuss, this beloved Beginner Book uses only 75 different words, making it perfect for beginning readers. The dogs ride bicycles, scooters, skis, roller skates, and drive various vehicles on their way to a party held atop a tree. "Go, Dog. Go!" is ideal for fans of P.D. Eastman and dog lovers of all ages. 

"The canine cartoons make an elementary text funny and coherent and still one of the best around," according to the School Library Journal. This book is a perfect gift for P.D. Eastman fans and a delightful way to introduce young readers to basic concepts and the joy of reading.

“I’ve never wanted to live inside a cage like a bear in the zoo!”

"A Pocket for Corduroy" is a delightful story of curiosity and resourcefulness. In this charming sequel to Don Freeman's beloved classic, Corduroy and his friend Lisa embark on a new adventure. After their meeting in a department store, Corduroy and Lisa become inseparable. One day, Lisa takes Corduroy to the laundromat, where he goes on a soapy quest to find a pocket of his own.

This enchanting tale is filled with amusing mishaps that teach children about problem-solving and the joy of discovery. As Corduroy navigates through the laundromat, Freeman's endearing illustrations bring his world to life, capturing the hearts of readers young and old.

The story highlights the importance of friendship and perseverance, showing that even the smallest adventures can lead to meaningful experiences. The book is available in board book format, making it perfect for the youngest of readers to enjoy.

With its timeless appeal and valuable lessons, Corduroy's laundromat adventure continues to be a cherished story for generations. Whether you are a longtime fan or a new reader, this classic tale is sure to bring joy and inspiration.

"Little Toot puffed up all his courage and tugged with all his might."

"Little Toot" is a beloved children's picture book written and illustrated by Hardie Gramatky, first published in 1939. This charming story follows Little Toot, a small tugboat in New York Harbor who prefers playing and making figure eights over tugging. His playful antics bother the other tugboats, but Little Toot dreams of something bigger.

One day, Little Toot finds himself alone on the open water as a storm approaches. Faced with a stranded ocean liner, he musters his courage and determination to save the day. Through this thrilling adventure, Little Toot discovers his potential and proves his worth.

This classic story, with its beautiful, nostalgic illustrations, encourages children to believe in their abilities and overcome obstacles. Little Toot's journey from a playful tugboat to a hero teaches valuable lessons about bravery, perseverance, and self-discovery.

"Little Toot" continues to inspire new generations with its uplifting narrative and timeless appeal. It’s an inspiring tale that highlights the importance of believing in oneself and the power of determination. Perfect for young readers, this book remains a cherished addition to any child's library.

"He had to find his way back home. Fortunately, he had his purple crayon."

"Harold and the Purple Crayon," written and illustrated by Crockett Johnson, is a beloved 1955 children's picture book published by HarperCollins. This enchanting story follows a young boy named Harold as he embarks on an imaginative nighttime adventure with his trusty purple crayon.

One evening, Harold decides to go for a walk in the moonlight. Armed only with an oversized purple crayon, he draws himself a whimsical landscape filled with wonder and excitement. As Harold and his crayon journey through woods, cross seas, and encounter dragons, they create a world of endless possibilities.

Written in the third person, this engaging narrative captures the essence of childhood imagination and creativity. With each stroke of his crayon, Harold navigates through funny twists and delightful surprises, showcasing just how far imagination can take you.

"Harold and the Purple Crayon" is a must-have for every child's bookshelf. Its timeless appeal and charming illustrations inspire young readers to dream big and explore the world of their own making. This book continues to be a favorite for generations, encouraging children to embark on their own imaginative journeys.

"One winter morning, Peter woke up and looked out the window. Snow had fallen during the night. It covered everything as far as he could see."

Ezra Jack Keats’ award-winning story "The Snowy Day" captures the wonder of a snowy day through the eyes of a young boy named Peter. Published in 1962, this beloved children's picture book follows Peter, an African American boy, as he explores his neighborhood after the season's first snowfall. The simple narrative and stunning collage illustrations draw children into the beauty and magic of winter, making it a timeless favorite.

Keats' illustrations helped pave the way for more inclusive and diverse children's literature, earning him the 1963 Caldecott Medal. "The Snowy Day" was the first picture book featuring an African American protagonist to win a major children's award. The book celebrates childhood curiosity and joy, as Peter experiences the snow with a sense of wonder and adventure.

Despite some critiques of subtle stereotypes, such as the portrayal of Peter's mother, the book's reception was largely positive. Since its publication, "The Snowy Day" has sold millions of copies, been translated into multiple languages, and adapted into various formats, leaving a lasting impression on generations of readers.

This enchanting story continues to inspire and delight, highlighting the magic of winter and the importance of diversity in children's literature.

"Elephants are gray. Pigs are pink. Only the chameleon has no color of his own."

"A Color of His Own" is a charming children's book written and illustrated by Leo Lionni, first published in 1975. This timeless tale addresses themes of identity, self-acceptance, and individuality. The story follows a small chameleon who embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Unlike other chameleons, he longs for a color of his own. Feeling different and misunderstood, he sets out to find his unique hue.

Throughout his journey, he encounters various animals with distinct colors and patterns. From a rosy flamingo to a striped tiger, the chameleon desires a color that is entirely his own. However, no matter how hard he tries, he cannot retain a specific color for long. A wise old chameleon teaches him that true color comes from within. Accepting himself for who he is, he discovers that companionship is more important than having a single, permanent color.

Lionni's delicate and whimsical illustrations bring the story to life, capturing the beauty of the animal kingdom and the chameleon's quest for self-identity. The book encourages readers to appreciate diversity and find strength in their own individuality. Its simple yet profound message resonates with children and adults alike, celebrating the beauty of being different.

"He taught them to swim close together, each in his own place, and when they had learned to swim like one giant fish, he said, 'I'll be the eye.'"

"Swimmy," written and illustrated by Leo Lionni in 1963, is a captivating children's picture book that tells a powerful story about unity and resilience. The narrative follows a small black fish named Swimmy, who stands out from his school of red fish due to his unique color. When a large tuna eats all of Swimmy's friends, he is left alone and frightened. He swims away into the vast ocean, encountering many beautiful and strange creatures along the way.

During his journey, Swimmy discovers another school of little red fish who are too afraid to venture out of their hiding place for fear of being eaten by predators. Swimmy, with his curiosity and adventurous spirit, encourages them to face their fears and come out of hiding. He devises an ingenious plan: if they swim together in the shape of a large fish, they can scare away the big fish.

Swimmy takes his place as the eye of the formation, and together, they swim through the sea without fear, overcoming danger through teamwork and creativity. The book's graceful text and stunning artwork, which earned a 1964 Caldecott Honor, make it a cherished addition to any child's library.

"Swimmy" teaches children about the power of collaboration and the importance of courage and leadership. This timeless tale highlights how working together can help overcome even the greatest challenges, making it an inspiring story for readers of all ages.

"A told B, and B told C, 'I'll meet you at the top of the coconut tree.'"

"Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault, illustrated by Lois Ehlert, is an engaging children's picture book published in 1989. This lively alphabet book introduces children to the playful world of letters with rhythmic rhymes and bright illustrations, making learning letters fun and memorable.

The story follows the lowercase letters of the alphabet as they climb a coconut tree in order, causing the tree to lean over and the letters to fall out. The uppercase letters, portrayed as their older relatives, come to rescue them. During the rescue, many of the letters receive certain injuries, but the adventure doesn't end there. Later that night, the letter "a" climbs back up the coconut tree, daring the rest of the alphabet to catch him.

With its rhythmic chant of “chicka chicka boom boom” and colorful artwork, the book has become an instant hit, essential for early literacy development. The illustrations, framed with bright polka-dotted borders, complement the energetic text, creating a visually stimulating experience.

The repetitive and catchy phrases encourage children to participate in the reading, making it interactive and engaging. The book also helps children understand the concept of sequences and patterns, enhancing their cognitive skills. The vibrant and bold illustrations keep children captivated, making it a delightful read for both kids and adults.

"Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" is a must-have for any child's library, offering a perfect blend of education and entertainment.

"In 1914, a veterinarian named Harry Colebourn rescued a baby bear."

"Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World’s Most Famous Bear," written by Lindsay Mattick and illustrated by Sophie Blackall, is a captivating children's book published in 2015. This heartwarming story tells the real-life tale of Harry Colebourn, a veterinarian who rescued a baby bear in 1914 while on his way to tend horses in World War I. Naming her Winnie, after his hometown of Winnipeg, Colebourn took the bear to war, forming an extraordinary bond.

Narrated by Colebourn’s great-granddaughter, Lindsay Mattick, the story unfolds as a bedtime tale she tells her son, blending tenderness with a rich historical narrative. The journey takes readers from the fields of Canada, across the ocean in a convoy, to an army base in England, and finally to the London Zoo, where Winnie meets a boy named Christopher Robin, inspiring the beloved character Winnie-the-Pooh.

The book's beautiful illustrations capture the essence of the remarkable friendship between a soldier and a bear, providing emotional depth and historical context. Sophie Blackall’s masterful watercolor illustrations create a visual consistency that ties the story together, despite its many settings. Additionally, photographs and ephemera from the Colebourn family archive included in the back pages add further interest and authenticity.

"Finding Winnie" is not only a delightful read for children but also a touching tribute to the origins of a beloved character. It celebrates the themes of friendship, bravery, and the impact of kindness, making it an essential addition to any child's library. The historical narrative and emotional richness make it a captivating and educational read for all ages.

 

"One day, Mr. Mallard decided he would like to take a trip and see what the rest of the river was like."

"Make Way for Ducklings," written and illustrated by Robert McCloskey, is a beloved children's picture book first published in 1941. The story follows Mrs. Mallard and her eight ducklings—Jack, Kack, Lack, Nack, Ouack, Pack, and Quack—as they navigate the busy streets of Boston to find a safe home. With the help of friendly policemen, the duck family makes their way to the pond in the Boston Public Garden.

The book won the 1942 Caldecott Medal for its detailed charcoal illustrations, which capture the essence of the bustling city and the warmth of the duck family's journey. Highlighting themes of family, community, and perseverance, "Make Way for Ducklings" continues to enchant readers of all ages.

Over the years, the book has sold more than two million copies and remains highly praised for its illustrations. Its popularity led to the creation of a statue of Mrs. Mallard and her ducklings in the Boston Public Garden. 

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"I think I can, I think I can, I think I can."

"The Little Engine That Could" is a classic American folktale that has inspired generations of children with its message of determination and positive thinking. First published in 1930 by Platt & Munk, the story teaches the value of optimism and hard work. Based on a 2007 online poll, the National Education Association listed the book as one of its "Teachers' Top 100 Books for Children."

The story follows a long train that must be pulled over a high mountain after its locomotive breaks down. Larger locomotives, personified with human traits, are asked to pull the train but refuse for various reasons. The request is finally sent to a small engine, who agrees to try. Despite the steep climb and heavy load, the little engine repeats the famous mantra "I think I can, I think I can" and successfully pulls the train over the mountain.

This timeless tale has been retold many times, but its core message remains the same—a small engine, with determination and self-belief, overcomes a seemingly impossible task. The charming illustrations and enduring message make it a favorite for all ages, highlighting the power of positive thinking.

 

"If you give a mouse a cookie, he's going to ask for a glass of milk."

"If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" by Laura Numeroff and illustrated by Felicia Bond is a whimsical children's picture book first published in 1985. This delightful tale explores the humorous chain of events that follow when a mouse asks for a cookie. The story, told in the second person, illustrates the slippery slope of escalating demands and the consequences of generosity and indulgence.

The narrative begins with a boy named Matthew giving a cookie to a mouse. This simple act sets off a series of requests: the mouse asks for a glass of milk, then a straw, a napkin, a mirror to check for a milk mustache, nail scissors to trim his hair, and a broom to clean up. The mouse's demands continue as he asks to take a nap, have a story read to him, draw a picture, and hang it on the refrigerator. The cycle completes when the mouse, looking at the refrigerator, asks for another glass of milk and a cookie to go with it.

The playful narrative and engaging illustrations by Felicia Bond make this book a hit with children. The circular tale not only generates giggles but also subtly teaches valuable lessons about cause and effect. The energetic mouse's endless requests wear out the young boy, highlighting the humorous consequences of indulgence.

"If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" is a fun exploration of generosity's unintended consequences, filled with delightful details and charming illustrations that capture the imagination of young readers. This book, the first in the "If You Give..." series, has become a beloved favorite for its clever storytelling and educational value.

 

"See the blue water… Smell the fresh fish… Hear the waves crash… Taste the salty seawater."

"Senses at the Seashore" by Shelley Rotner is a delightful children's book that explores the sensory experiences of the beach. Published in 2010, this engaging book is perfect for teaching children about their five senses through vivid photographs and simple text. The book captures the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures of the seashore, making it an interactive and memorable learning experience for young readers.

The book opens up the sensory wonders of the beach with vibrant imagery and straightforward captions, such as "See the blue water," "Hear the waves crash," "Smell the suntan lotion," "Touch a soft feather," and "Taste the salty seawater." These descriptions bring the seashore to life, allowing children to immerse themselves in the natural world and appreciate the richness of sensory experiences.

"Senses at the Seashore" is an excellent resource for both parents and educators. It serves as a wonderful discussion and activity starter for children visiting the beach, while also being ideal for classroom use in studying the five senses. The interactive approach and engaging content make learning fun and memorable, encouraging children to explore and understand their environment.

The book's format is simple and direct, featuring bright, sharp photographs and uncomplicated captions. Each page highlights different sensory experiences, ensuring that children understand how each sense is stimulated at the seashore. Rotner's passion for the seashore is evident in her gorgeous color photographs, which transport readers to the beach and make the sensory experiences tangible.

"Senses at the Seashore" is not only an educational tool but also a celebration of the sensory joys of the beach. It encourages children to observe, listen, touch, smell, and taste their surroundings, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.

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"The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." - I Can Read With My Eyes Shut!

From "Green Eggs and Ham" to "Hop on Pop," Dr. Seuss's timeless rhymes and imaginative characters have captivated readers from 1931 to 1995. His playful use of language and whimsical illustrations spark a lifelong love of reading, making his books perfect for reading aloud or alone. Each book offers unique adventures that teach valuable lessons, making Dr. Seuss’s works essential for any child’s library.

Dr. Seuss, whose real name was Theodor Seuss Geisel, created a world where children could explore their imaginations and learn important life lessons. His stories, filled with rhymes and rhythms, are easy for children to follow and enjoy. The vivid illustrations bring his characters to life, making each story memorable and engaging.

Books like "The Cat in the Hat" teach children about responsibility and fun, while "Oh, the Places You’ll Go!" inspires readers to reach for their dreams and navigate life’s ups and downs. "Green Eggs and Ham" encourages children to try new things, and "Horton Hears a Who!" teaches the value of kindness and the importance of every individual.

Dr. Seuss’s books are more than just stories; they are tools for teaching and growth. They help develop early literacy skills, foster creativity, and encourage a love for reading. The repetitive and rhythmic text helps children develop phonemic awareness and reading fluency. His books often address complex themes in a simple and accessible way, making them relevant for readers of all ages.

"And those were the first words Trixie ever said."

In the story "Knuffle Bunny" by Mo Willems, Trixie loses her beloved Knuffle Bunny during a trip to the laundromat, leading to a humorous and heartfelt adventure. Willems’ expressive illustrations and relatable story capture the emotions of childhood, making the book a favorite for both children and parents. It’s a charming story about love and attachment.

Trixie, Daddy, and Knuffle Bunny embark on a fun trip to the neighborhood laundromat. The exciting adventure takes a dramatic turn when Trixie realizes that her stuffed bunny has been left behind. Using a combination of muted black-and-white photographs and expressive illustrations, this stunning book tells a brilliantly true-to-life tale about what happens when Daddy is in charge and things go hilariously wrong.

As Trixie and her father walk down the block, through the park, and past the school to the laundromat, Trixie enjoys loading and putting money into the machine with wide-eyed pleasure. However, on the return home, she realizes Knuffle Bunny is missing. Unable to speak, Trixie tries to communicate her distress to her father, but he doesn’t understand. Despite his plea, "Now, please don't get fussy," Trixie goes "boneless" with frustration. Both arrive home unhappy, but Mom immediately notices Knuffle Bunny is missing. They rush back to the laundromat, where after several attempts, Dad finds the toy among the wet laundry and reclaims hero status. Trixie’s joyful exclamation of "Knuffle Bunny!!!" marks her first words, adding a heartwarming touch to the story.

"Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale" by Mo Willems blends humor and warmth, making it a cherished book that captures the highs and lows of childhood attachment and the bond between a child and their favorite toy.