How Do Story Books Help a Child's Development?
- Encourage your child's imagination, curiosity, and flow of ideas.
- Your child's brain, concentration, social skills, and communication skills will be developed as a result.
- Helps your child to understand the difference between reality and fantasy.
- Helps your child identify and process strong emotions that come along with events that are new or frightening.
- Story books help kids understand various elements of cultures, as well as their own.
- It also develops early literacy skills for your child by helping him or her get familiar with the sounds, words, and language of the world.
Top Rated Story Books For Kids in India
1. Best in Cloth Books: Baby's Very First Cloth Book- Faces (The Seven Sisters)
Looking for a book to help your baby focus? This book is the best story books for toddlers age 1. You will get high-contrast images that are good for the eyes, crinkly cloth that awakens their senses, and mirrors to help babies identify themselves.
Author: Campbell Books
Genre: Picture book
No of Pages: 8
Suitable Age: 0 to 1 year
Pros: Multi-sensory, tactile, and fun.
Cons: Minimal written content
2. Best in Farm Stories: Hello Farm
One of the best story books for 2 year old kids, who may love to bite and read with their mouths attached to the books. This book is a good addition to their book set because it helps them familiarise themselves with the names of farm animals. It also has fairly simple greetings that tend to be etched in your child’s memory.
Author: Amy Pixton
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 12
Suitable Age: 0 to 1 year
Pros: Familiarity with farm animal names, durable, easy to clean.
Cons: Not much reading content.
3. Best in Night Stories: Goodnight Moon
One of the most famous children's story books tells the tale of the nighttime routine of a young bunny. A classic tale that slowly and steadily puts the reader to sleep with its calming influence. The illustrations are excellent, full of detail, and support the development of early vocabulary.
Author: Margaret Wise Brown
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 0 to 1 year
Pros: Soothing bedtime story, great nighttime palette of colours.
Cons: Not much reading content
4. Best for Expressing Love: I Ruff You (Made With Love)
Through this book, you get an opportunity to demonstrate to your child how much you love them with a unique language of love. A puppy with soft, velvety doggie ears is the subject of a heartwarming tale. This lovely board book, with its plush puppy ears and adorable animal images, is perfect for babies and toddlers to hold, touch, and read.
Author: Sandra Magsamen
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 14
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Tactile, great size for little hands, and fun.
5. Best for Newborns: Hand In Hand
A book that is comforting and calming due to its short read-aloud stanzas. It is ideal for first-story times and quick lullabies. This book may grow with your children since each time they look at it as they get older, they will find fresh and engaging scenes to connect with.
Author: Alyssa Satin Capucilli
Genre: Fiction - Rhymes
No of Pages: 16
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Simple language, subtle colours, rhymes
6. Best in Lift-The-Flap Books: Hello House
Filled with flaps that can be lifted, this book is great for kids who find it difficult to look at mere illustrations. With illustrations hidden, kids are always curious to discover secrets. Its amazing touch-and-feel elements add to the fun.
Author: Nicola Slater
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 12
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Animal characters, sensory play, interactive.
7. Best in Iconic Tales: The Jungle Book
One of the most famous childhood classics for generations is hard to miss for your child’s storytime. The journey of self-discovery of a young boy in a mysterious jungle is an iconic tale of all time. With its colourful and dreamy designs, your child is sure to be captivated.
Author: Miriam Bos
Genre: Fiction, Classic
No of Pages: 10
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Animal characters, pull-and-slide elements.
8. Best for Tummy Time: Baby Touch - Tummy Time
As your baby reaches the age of 1 month, it is essential to have tummy time. This helps them develop shoulder and neck muscles to continue growing. In order to encourage your baby to stay longer on their tummy, this book is the perfect motivator. A few folds and this book turns into 3 sections that boost their fine motor skills.
Genre: Picture book
No of Pages: 8
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Engaging, tactile, unique 3 fold structure
9. Best in Rag books: You Are So Cute Little Cat
This is a great rag book that comes in very handy to help your child pinpoint animals and learn their names. Parents can also help children learn animal noises through this book. Children can embrace this lovely fabric book, which is composed of a smooth, non-ruffled velvet fabric that is incredibly comfortable to the touch and awakens children's senses.
Genre: Picture book
No of Pages: 8
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Good textures, vibrant colours, visual reading
Cons: No written content
10. Best in Sea Magic: Ten Minutes to Bed- Little Mermaid
The magical story's core is the ten-minute countdown to bed, which builds a narrative from an exhilarating beginning to a serene conclusion. The ideal length for lulling young children to sleep is provided by this gorgeously drawn picture book. The exquisite creatures under the sea are sure to give your child some sweet dreams.
Author: Rhiannon Fielding
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 28
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Representation of brown mermaids, magical and short.
Cons: Words are a bit difficult to see against dark backgrounds
11. Best for Warm-Hearted Stories: I Love You, Little Monster
Get ready to enjoy an emotional rollercoaster ride with this book. The narrative explores the warmth of a parent and child bond in an incredible manner. It's a really comforting bedtime story for children that might perhaps help parents say out loud what they don’t end up expressing.
Author: Giles Andreae
Genre: Fiction - Poetry
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Emotional, calming influence, and easy to understand.
12. Best in Visual Simulation: Baby Touch - Faces
For the first few months after birth, babies can only see the colours black and white. This book serves the purposes of reading as well as flashcards. The black and white illustrations play a major role in developing your baby's vision. It also has elements like a mirror and big illustrations that can grab your baby's attention easily.
Genre: Picture book
No of Pages: 10
Suitable Age: 0 to 1 year
Pros: Sensory development, boosts learning, and focus.
Cons: Minimal content
13. Best in Short Stories: Watch me Growth Mr. Crocs's Musical Friends
Who needs a height chart when you can get one in a book? This amazing short story book for kids serves as a dual tool, one for reading and the other for tracking your child’s height milestones.
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 6
Suitable Age: 0 to 1 year
Pros: Height chart, multiple characters, vibrant.
Cons: Height chart is until a limited age.
14. Best for Children’s Mental Health: Ruby’s Worry
Worry is a part and parcel of everyone’s life, young and old. Dealing with worry is something that needs to be cultivated from a young age. Using this book as a springboard for discussion about their worries helps children open up even more. Additionally, it can be used as a tool to emphasise various emotions and teach your worried child how to regain their naturally healthy state of mind.
Author: Tom Percival
Genre: Realistic fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 0 to 1 year
Pros: Focuses on mental health, emotional wellbeing, and self-love.
15. Best for Feeding Time: Don't feed the dinosaur
This is a good choice to make while feeding your kids. With an actual hole in the mouths of the dinosaurs, you can sneakily insert a spoon or even your hand for a quick peek-a-boo. This book is a must for all the little dinosaur fanatics out there.
Genre: Fantasy
No of Pages: 10 Specification & Items in Box (Weight)
Suitable Age: 0 to 1 year
Pros: Feed your kids through the cavity in the book, informational
Cons: Names of dinosaurs may be difficult to pronounce
16. Best in Finger Puppet Books: Bedtime Cuddles- Little Bear
Finger puppet books are great for kids when they need to develop fine motor skills. Simply tuck your fingers into the cuddly arms and join the games of little bear. It is also a good way to get your kids to participate in the enactment to develop their speaking skills and hand-eye coordination.
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 12 Specification & Items in Box (Weight)
Suitable Age: 0 to 1 year
Pros: Finger puppets, durable, and tactile.
Cons: Minimal words
17. Best in Sensory Development: Superdog saves the day!
Books with hand puppets help your kids with many fine motor skills. Through the whimsical story of a helpful dog, help your child develop listening and storytelling skills. This book can contribute significantly to your child’s overall development.
Suitable Age: 0 to 1 year
Pros: Development vocabulary, auditory input, hand-eye coordination
18. Best for Preschoolers: Peppa Pig- Bedtime Little Library
One of the most popular cartoon characters in the world comes to your child's room with unique stories that simply put a smile on their face. This board book is perfect to add to your little ones' collection of bedtime stories. Always ending with giggly and sweet endings, this book is irresistible and absolutely recommended to kids attending preschool.
Genre: Activity, story, and novelty books
No of Pages: 48
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Sturdy, ideal size for little hands, and portable.
19. Best in Stories about Spiders: The Very Busy Spider
Spiders can often be very creepy to look at. The greatest method to allay your child's phobia/ discomfort of spiders and to spark their imagination and curiosity about their spidey friends is to introduce them to non-fictional spider characters. Children will enjoy the story of the farmyard spider who spins her web.
Author: Eric Carle
Genre: Fantasy
No of Pages: 26
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Great for putting away spider fears, contains various animal names and sounds.
20. Best for Self-Esteem: The Lion Inside
This bestselling tale of self-assurance and self-worth features a frightened little mouse who embarks on a quest to discover his roar in this board book edition. The book is about a tiny little mouse who gets sick of the other animals ignoring him and wishes he could roar like a lion, only to find out that even the mightiest of animals get scared and the tiniest of animals can have the heart of a brave lion. This book is a great way to reassure your child that there is nothing to feel inferior about.
Author: Rachel Bright
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 30
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Character building, self-love, and a positive influence.
21. Best for Positive Influence: Giraffes can't dance
Do you wish to instil the motto that nothing is impossible in your child? This story is the perfect solution. Gerald the giraffe feels useless because the other animals make fun of him when he tries to participate in the Jungle Dance. Gerald, who had been hesitant at first, finds his song and learns that he can dance fairly well, ultimately proving to be a positive influence on children who are wary of other people's ideas.
Author: Giles Andreae
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Multiple animal characters, an engaging and optimistic story
22. Best in Timeless Classics: The Tiger Who Came to Tea
This is a classic book that helps children become aware of their regular surroundings. Published over 50 years ago, this book is a special anniversary edition that is ideal for reading aloud. Young children can also read this book to themselves due to its simple language.
Author: Judith Kerr
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Funny dialogues, sense of nostalgia, good for a bedtime story.
23. Best for Landscapes: Best for The Girl, the Bear, and the Magic Shoes
This lovely story is one to savour time and time again. It's packed with action and imaginative elements, and it has a charmingly unexpected finale. From mountains, and lakes to small little towns, give your child a tour of different landscapes with this amazing yet simple book.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Imaginative animal characters, elaborate illustrations, and magical.
24. Best in Gardening Stories: I Love Nature- Mouse Loves Park
This book is a great way to introduce your child to the concept of gardening. Printed with eco-friendly ink and including seed paper, this is a great eco-friendly start for you and your kid. The book explores how a mouse goes on a mission to create an interesting park buzzing with wildlife.
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 14
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Eco-friendly book, activity inclusive, and improves garden visualisation.
25. Best in princess stories: Frozen 2 Glow Flashlight Sound Book
The Frozen Queen, a novel by Hans Christian Andersen published in 1844, served as the source for this tale, which has been turned into a film that features all of the characters' faces. It is a story of conflict that is simplified for young children. It is also a great book, if you intend to show your child the Frozen movie series. Give your child and opportunity to enter the world of Elsa, Anna, and Olaf through this book each night.
Genre: Non-fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 12
Suitable Age: 1+ year
Pros: Sounds and light elements make it very enchanting.
Cons: The story panned out concise to fit the book.
26. Best in Cloth Books: Baby's Very First Cloth Book- Faces (The Seven Sisters)
Looking for a book to help your baby focus? This book is the best story books for toddlers age 1. You will get high-contrast images that are good for the eyes, crinkly cloth that awakens their senses, and mirrors to help babies identify themselves.
Author: Campbell Books
Genre: Picture book
No of Pages: 8
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Multi-sensory, tactile, and fun.
Cons: Minimal written content
27. Best in Hidden Clues: I Went Walking
This is a good book to introduce kids to mystery because it has catchy stanzas that you and your little one can read aloud. It also has gorgeous watercolour illustrations of the animal characters. This story is a clever guessing game that uses hidden clues to partially reveal the character's answers on the next page. This book will keep your kids' attention and improve their comprehension and creativity.
Genre: Realistic Fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Adventurously imaginative, very clear fonts, and big images.
28. Best for Nature Stories: Monkey Puzzle
The fascinating adventure of a monkey who has lost his mother is followed in Monkey Puzzle. In his search for her, he encounters a wide variety of jungle animals. A good book for your curious little ones who like nature.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 24
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Clever, funny, and heart-warming
29. Best in Stories about Professions: What Do People Do All Day?
This wonderful hardback book is the best way to help your kids understand people's professions. It also helps children familiarise themselves with what people do outside the house. Broadening their horizons in the world of so many professions starts with a visual treat that helps them understand work, business, and community.
Author: Richard Scarry
Genre: Realistic Fantasy
No of Pages: 64
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Intricate artwork, multiple characters, and informative.
30. Best for Timid Kids: The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry, and the Big Hungry Bear
Delighting children since 1984, this book has a special conversational tone throughout the story. The thought of a bear, the mouse's determination, and the reader acting as the narrator in a conversation with the mouse make it the ideal pick for kids who are typically hesitant. The plot has a satisfying resolution, in which the author highlights the different ways the mouse faces threats. Yet, the mouse manages to ideate and carry out well-considered solutions in due course to do so.
Author: Audrey Wood
Genre: Fiction – Animal Characters
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Whimsical illustrations, good to read aloud, classic.
31. Best for Learning Animal Names: Mammas In The Wild
Looking for a book that encompasses the names of various animals? Here’s a board book that educates kids about the various other species with which we share the planet. It is also a great way to help children become familiar with the various types of love that may be found in parent-child relationships.
Author: Vaishali Karthikeyan
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Big and vivid illustrations, heart-warming.
32. Best for Affirmations: The Wonderful Things You Will Be
The author beautifully opens the doors of possibilities in front of kids so that they can imagine themselves being anything they want. This book's poetry is excellent for reading aloud to your child as affirmations. The book's overarching message is one of love and acceptance.
Author: Emily Winfield Martin
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Rhyming, positive and calming influence.
33. Best in Star Gazing Stories: How to Catch a Star
The debut book of award-winning author Olive Jeffers comes across as purely magical and literally out of this world. The book has amazingly dreamy illustrations that depict the story of a boy who made the decision to catch his own star because of his profound love for the stars he saw every night. Your child will be able to understand resilience, have hope, and extend their imagination through this book.
Author: Olive Jeffers
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Captivating story, a refreshing introduction to space.
Cons: More exciting elements like rockets and spacecraft are not there.
34. Best for Inculcating Reading Habits: Pepper Wants Too Many Toys
The problems of a small puppy in this book are a wonderful opportunity to teach your child about morals. The plot also presents good behaviours and gradually encourages children to replicate them. The book also contains bold fonts and simple words that are an ideal starting point for teaching kids to read independently.
Genre: Realistic fiction
No of Pages: 24
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Easy to read for kids, practical takeaways, and good influence.
35. Best for Toddlers: I Love You to the Moon and Back
An adorable story of a bear family who loves doing regular things with a lot of love. It's a great pick when you feel like cuddling your toddler on a cold evening. The amazing night vistas and illuminating furry bears create just the right setting for your little one to sleep soundly.
Author: Amelia Hepworth
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 28
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Drool-proof, gender-neutral, beautiful scenery.
36. Best in Witch Stories: Room on the Broom
Take your kid on a broomy adventure. The witch, who scoops up waifs and roams on her broomstick, is a beautiful yet awkward character. Takeaways of reaching out to others is the core message as she treats the animals with kindness.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, fantasy, rhymes.
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Whimsical, focuses on kindness and togetherness
37. Best in Textures: Never Look for a Chameleon
Toddlers love feeling new textures each day. Texture serves as a means of attention-grabbing and a mode of clearer communication with kids. This book has multiple elements for your child to point to and learn names, colours, and much more.
Author: Rosie Greening
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 12
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Tactile, unique, and engaging.
38. Best for Developing Imagination: Charlie Cook's Favourite Book
Enter Charlie's book and explore his world of amusement. Your child will be able to let their imaginations run wild in this book that has plenty of characters. To mention a few, there are dragons, pirates, jewel thieves, and Goldilocks.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 24
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Witty, unique concept for a children's book.
39. Best in Goodwill Stories: The Smartest Giant in Town
The narrative centres on George, who experiences criticism because of how he dresses and tries to update his look. An endearing story about a giant who puts others before himself. He ends up making some friends along the way out of sheer goodwill.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 24
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Rhythmic text, talks about community and self-appreciation.
40. Best in Unusual Friendships: The Snail and the Whale
This is a pretty sweet tale, and it's good to witness the camaraderie of a whale and a snail, and how much they enjoy all the sights they encounter on their journey. The book's abundance of describing words, combined with the illustrations, really make children think about each location the pair finds themselves in.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 24
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Catchy, rhyming, and gives a great sense of adventure
41. Best in Mermaid Stories: The Singing Mermaid
Enter the world of a fabulous singing mermaid that takes your kid on a fun and emotional ride. It's amazing to read aloud because of the rhyming and cheery prose; the lively story has lots of opportunities for different voices and enactments. Young children can understand the story solely with the help of lively illustrations that resemble the content.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 30 Specification & Items in Box (Weight)
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Magical, mysterious, and captivating.
42. Best in Funny Fish Stories: Tiddler Gift-ed
Follow the adventures of Tiddler, a funny little kid who likes to imagine big and make excuses. There are a lot of interesting lessons and ideas in the story that you could talk about with your kids before bed. All of these topics are covered in one book, along with absenteeism, directional thinking, investigative collaborations, and persistence. It's a good book to read to your child who will soon start school.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 30
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Very imaginative, intriguing, and adventurous.
43. Best for Phonic Development: Read With Oxford- Stage 1-Song Bind-Up Bob Bug
Twelve entertaining stories with vibrant illustrations are included in this collection, which focuses on phonics skill development. To make the most of the collection, refer to the tips for reading aloud. You will find tips that describe the sounds that each story emphasises and a chance to list any words that kids might find challenging.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 128
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Easy to read, multiple stories in one place, practical.
44. Best Book to Practise Reading: Read With Oxford- Stage 1- Sams Backpack And Other Stories
Sam sets out on a camping trip with her special backpack, taking your little ones along with her on this journey. The book contains six compelling and interesting tales with clear phonics development that are the perfect introduction to reading for young children.
Authors: Teresa Heapy, Becca Heddle, Narinder Dhami, Michelle Robinson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 96
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: A good mix of educational, modern, and traditional tales.
45. Best for Developing Critical Thinking: Best for Cows in the Kitchen
This is a traditional board book with tiny see-through holes that will keep your children thoroughly entertained and help them think critically. Kids can analyse and discuss the story using critical thinking. The short, snappy lines grab children's interest and encourage them to read aloud or perhaps sing along.
Author: Airlie Anderson
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 14
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Unique presentation, rhyming, and funny illustrations.
46. Best for Christmas: How to Hide a Lion at Christmas
The story narrates the ordeal of little Iris, who has to go away for the holidays but leaves her favourite lion at home. Perfect for kids who do not take separation from their toys easily, the story is an amiable and amusing tale. There is a lot for young readers to discover in this classic novel that also has a pleasant, contemporary feel to it.
Author: Helen Stephens
Genre: Fiction - Animal characters, fantasy
No of Pages: 40 pages
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Funny, warm-hearted, and a Christmas classic.
47. Best for Learning Shapes: The Princess And The Wizard
A delightfully bizarre tale delivered in rhymes written by an award-winning author. Your child will discover many shapes and colours with this book. Additionally, it's a fantastic method to spark their imagination.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Good rhymes, lively colours, and diverse characters.
48. Best for Space Fantasy: The Smeds and the Smoos
Searching for a cutting-edge intergalactic love story? This book will transport your child to the galaxy, where they will encounter bizarre aliens and enter their fantastical world. This book delivers a powerful message of acceptance and appreciation for the uniqueness of others.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Wonderful rhymes, stunning illustrations, and funny names.
49. Best in Self-Love: The Ugly Five
The illustrations feature a variety of colourful animal personalities who think they are ugly but end up realising they are actually uniquely beautiful. Real African animals are depicted in photographs at the end to expand your child’s thinking. Amazing to help children understand that different is beautiful.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, fantasy, rhymes
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Unique animal characters, empowering, out of the box
Cons: The words 'ugly' might be triggering to some.
50. Best for Tummy Time: Baby Touch - Tummy Time
As your baby reaches the age of 1 month, it is essential to have tummy time. This helps them develop shoulder and neck muscles to continue growing. In order to encourage your baby to stay longer on their tummy, this book is the perfect motivator. A few folds and this book turns into 3 sections that boost their fine motor skills.
Genre: Picture book
No of Pages: 8
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Engaging, tactile, unique 3 fold structure
51. Best for Equality: No Difference Between Us
Gender equality is one of the most talked about topics of every generation. Hence, if you are a parent trying to help your child look above the differences from an early age, this is the book you need. The narrative promotes constructive conversations parents can have with their kids at this stage of emotional nurturing.
Author: Jayneen Sanders
Genre: Realistic fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 2+ years
Pros: Gender-neutral, easy to understand, and thought-changing.
52. Best for Bedtime Stories: Dr. Seuss’s Sleep Book
The story deftly incorporates drowsy creatures and lines that provide your kids with the perfect bedtime visual. The calming images and clever writing encourage your kid to imitate yawning repeatedly. It is a must-have tool for children who need to be calmed down before bedtime.
Author: Dr. Seuss
Genre: Realistic fiction, children's literature
No of Pages: 64
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Good for bedtime, soporific, classic.
53. Best for Gender-Neutral Stories: Pink and Blue
A unique book that intends to challenge gender stereotypes and help children develop inclusive thinking very early on. Gender-neutral stories give children a sense of empowerment and treat all people with respect, irrespective of gender or preferences. The narratives are easy to understand with clear illustrations that help get the message across to your child in an efficient way.
Author: Ritu Vaishnav
Genre: Non-fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Values of equality, accepting different choices, and crisp sentences.
54. Best for Stories about Loss: The Paper Dolls
A young girl's innocent and imaginative play with the paper dolls her mother helped her create is the focus of this story. The story beautifully captures loss while describing the incident that involves a boy, some paper dolls, and some scissors. The Paper Dolls is an intensely satisfying read.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 32 Specification & Items in Box (Weight)
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Subtle illustrations for visual clues, speaks about unity and togetherness.
55. Best in Funny Classic Stories: Mr. Tall
The long legs of Mr Tall are getting on his nerves, but his friends reassure him that it's okay. Filled with wit and crisp sentences, this is a delight to read to children. Children can learn valuable lessons about self-acceptance, friendship, and standing out from the crowd from this endearing story that is rife with humour.
Author: Roger Hargreaves
Genre: Fiction, fantasy.
No of Pages: 36
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Quirky, witty, and, ideal for bedtime stories
56. Best for Submarine Stories: Mr Men Adventure under the Sea
From the collection of Mr Men and Little Miss Adventures, this book is a perfect pick on a rainy day. This book is ideal for kids who adore submarine stories and are eager to explore the unknown through its humorous storyline.
Author: Roger Hargreaves
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Vibrant illustrations, funny creatures, and mystery elements
57. Best in Learning about Colours: The Day the Crayons Quit
Children who are learning the names of colours will love this innovative and playful story about crayons. The conflict between a set of crayons parodies the human characteristics of anyone who is around kids who grumble or argue. It's also a fantastic technique to satirically explain misunderstandings.
Author: Drew Daywalt
Genre: Realistic fiction
No of Pages: 40
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Clever realistic-looking illustrations, imaginative and colourful.
58. Best for Ill Children: The Crocodile Under the Bed
This book illustrates the story of a boy who has to stay home because he has fallen ill. Staying at home, the little boy finds a friend under the bed and decides to have an adventure of his own. It's the perfect book to read to your child who has to miss school or any event.
Author: Judith Kerr
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Enjoyable, animal characters, and magical
59. Best in Stories about Loss: The Heart & The Bottle
An encouraging plot in an award-winning book that creatively explores the subjects of love and grief. The captivating narrative follows a girl who hides her heart after an unpleasant experience, through her highs and lows. The plot deftly combines the complex feelings of loss and emptiness with hope in the end.
Author: Olive Jeffers
Genre: Realistic fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Good to explain death, emotional development, and warm-hearted.
60. Best for Instilling Kindness: Be Kind
Generosity, acceptance, and friendship are promised in this story by an award-winning author. It's crucial to teach your child the value of modest deeds of kindness since it will improve their sense of optimism and self-worth. The activities a child can engage in on a daily basis are explored in this thoughtful narrative.
Author: Pat Zietlow Miller
Genre: Realistic fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Beautiful story, Vibrant
61. Best in Sing-Alongs: World of Eric Carle- If You're Happy and You Know It
A book containing simple stanzas that can be sung to a recognisable, catchy rhythm. Each page depicts a different animal, making it easier for the child to concentrate on that species and learn its name. A large, squishy button that is included with this simple-to-read book allows children to enjoy a multi-sensory experience.
Author: Eric Carle
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 12
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Animal characters, engaging, tactile.
62. Best for Reading Aloud: The Gruffalo
The book's repeated phrasing not only makes it easy for kids to follow along when reading aloud, but it also promotes the understanding of rhyme. Excellent for guessing as well. Children might conveniently recognise a variety of characters who are brought to life in this story.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ yearss
Pros: Part of an interesting collection to read further, aids in learning rhymes.
Cons: Contains a few scary elements
63. Best in Penguin Stories: Up and Down
Oliver Jeffers, a famous author and illustrator who has won many awards, tells a heartwarming story about friendship, love, and following your dreams. The story is a sequel to Lost and Found and follows two unusual friends: a boy and a penguin. Their interactions cover disagreements, hardships, and hopes that help your child develop emotional understanding.
Author: Olive Jeffers
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 40
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Cheeky characters, emotionally satisfying, adventurous
64. Best in Stories about Opposites: One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
This is one of the best books out there to introduce your child to the world of opposites, which may be otherwise challenging to explain. It is also beginner friendly which means your children can read the book aloud by themselves. Your child will also get used to various names of colours, animals, and words that can be used in regular conversations.
Author: Dr. Seuss
Genre: Fiction, children's literature, poetry
No of Pages: 64
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Witty dialogues, cheeky animal characters, and a minimal level of complexity.
65. Best in Friendship Stories: Lost and Found
Most children love the act of talking to animals and birds. This story beautifully depicts the boy's friendship with a penguin on a unique journey. It cleverly pushes the values of selfless friendship, bravery, and the message that "home is where the heart is."
Author: Olive Jeffers
Genre: Fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Can be introduced to adopted children, good visuals, story with emotions at play.
66. Best for Nursery kids: Rumble in the Jungle
At the age when your kid is learning nursery rhymes, it’s best to fuel their energy with more rhymes. This book is a good addition to their collection. The goofy animals and quirky sentences make it double as fun to read aloud.
Author: Giles Andreae
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Witty, rhyming, easy to read.
Cons: It may come across as an elaborate list of animals
67. Best in Indian fables: 101 Tales The Great Panchatantra Collection
One of the best moral story books for kids. It has been developing children's personalities for decades. In this collection, you will find timeless stories about loyalty, friendship, and wisdom.
Genre: Fiction, Indian fables
No of Pages: 160
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Captures Indian morals and values in a simple language.
68. Best about Fictional Doctors: Zog and the Flying Doctors Foiled Edition
Introduce your child to this amazing book with flying physicians. They are a knight, a princess, and a dragon, and they are excellent at operations, medicine, and travel, respectively. This novel is special because it depicts a princess as a doctor, which is exceptional.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, fantasy, rhymes
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Girl power, more books in the collection to continue reading
69. Best to Develop Perspective: A Squash and a Squeeze
The tale of an old woman who complains and a crafty man who teaches the old woman to value her assets. Kids will find the solutions in the story hilarious. It will also help them envision themselves in those situations, ultimately widening their perspective.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Gives the message of finding happiness in the ordinary.
70. Best in Stories about Respect: Horton Hears a Who!
The classic tale of Horton the kind elephant who does not discriminate while helping out his tiny friends who live in the dust, is encapsulated in this book, which is one of the best story books for kids. The story is an amazing way to impart the values of friendship and respect. The most popular line, “A person's a person, no matter how small," resonates with little kids, helping them believe that even their thoughts and ideas matter in a world full of adults.
Author: Dr. Seuss
Genre: Fiction, children's literature, poetry
No of Pages: 64
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Whacky animal characters, rhyming words, and fosters confidence.
71. Best for Solar Power Learning: Zayn and Zoey Learn About Solar Power
Have you ever had a child point out a solar panel and ask what it is? It might seem difficult to describe in a nutshell, but it's quite effective when told as a story from one of the best story book for students. Your child will be able to comprehend the creation of solar energy and its advantages through this intriguing tale.
Genre: Realistic fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Educational, fascinating, and easy to understand.
72. Best for Complex Feelings: It's Okay to Not Be Okay- Adults get Big Feelings too
Here’s a book that is ideal if you're searching for a lighthearted method to talk to your kids about a difficult subject. Besides discovering their own feelings, kids also observe the feelings of adults around them. Letting your child know that it's okay for an adult to not be okay through this book helps them conveniently process various emotions.
Author: Danielle Sherman-Lazar
Genre: Realistic fiction
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Simple language, covers heavy topics, easy to understand.
73. Best in Emotional Well-Being: How Big Are Your Worries Little Bear?
This is one of the few books that talks about children's emotional and mental health. The story talks about a little bear who has a lot of worries. Children can learn that common worries and fears can be conquered through this captivating and wonderfully drawn narrative. The story shares how it only requires being open to sharing with a supportive listener and realising that learning comes from making mistakes.
Author: Jayneen Sanders
Genre: Realistic Fiction
No of Pages: 42
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Discussion questions are also provided, along with further advice for assisting kids with anxiety.
74. Best for Setting Boundaries: No Means No!
If you are a parent, teacher, or caretaker who desires to help your child understand consent and personal boundaries, this book is perfect. The book is a pleasant, interactive manual for comprehending personal rights. It is also an excellent tool for anyone wishing to initiate age-appropriate, non-threatening dialogues about consent.
Author: Jayneen Sanders
Genre: Realistic fiction
No of Pages: 28
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Practical, educational, and improves critical thinking.
75. Best for Body Safety: Some Secrets Should Never Be Kept
Educating kids about the value of expressing emotions and speaking out when something is wrong is essential for their own safety. This book is an excellent approach to getting kids to talk openly about the values of respect, trust, and limits. Additionally, it offers a secure and non-threatening setting for bringing up sensitive issues like abuse and neglect.
Author: Jayneen Sanders
Genre: Realistic fiction
No of Pages: 34
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Springboard for sensitive conversations, well-written narrative.
76. Best for Graduation Gifts: Oh, The Places You’ll Go!
Children of all ages, including older children, adore this timeless classic. This book is the ideal graduation gift because it beautifully portrays the highs and lows of life's journeys. Additionally, it promotes perseverance, a theme that appeals to both parents and kids.
Author: Dr. Seuss
Genre: Non-fiction, poetry
No of Pages: 48
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Abstract illustrations, can be re-read even as the child grows, practical takeaways.
77. Best for Hygiene Education: Germ Academy
The battle between an aspiring world's best infection and the soap squad is on. The book provides an incredibly entertaining introduction to the concepts of germs, viruses, and hygiene practises. It is one of the best story books for toddlers age 3 who may not understand why they need to eat with clean hands.
Author: Rea Malhotra Mukhtyar
Genre: Fantasy
No of Pages: 64
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Innovative artwork, informative and practical takeaways.
78. Best for Resilient Stories: Stick Man Gift Edition
The board book takes kids through the journey of the stickman, who has to pass many hurdles just to be home with his family. A story of resilience, teaching kids the importance of not giving up. Lastly, the quirky illustrations, are sure to give your child a good giggle.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 30
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Multiple things to notice in the artwork, good storyline.
Cons: Scenes of the fire or a dog playing fetch may be disturbing to some kids.
79. Best in Unconditional Love: I Love You When You're Angry
As your child starts to grow, they start understanding the differences in tones, expressions, and even actions. That phase can be a sensitive one if not dealt with properly. This book is a great reminder for both parents and kids that even on days when they are not in their jolly moods, the love is still unconditional.
Author: Erin Winters
Genre: Fiction - Fantasy, Rhymes
No of Pages: 28 pages
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Addresses various expressions, reassuring, and easy to read.
80. Best Book to Support Early Readers: Read With Oxford- Stage 2-Song Bind-Up Trunk Skunk
An easy book for kids who are starting to read or find it difficult to read by themselves. The illustrations help with recognising difficult words and memorising them better. The book also aids in your child's steady processing by using simple words early on and more challenging ones later.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 128
Suitable Age: 3+ years
Pros: Great for phonics, spelling, and learning words.
81. Best in Phonics Level 2: Read With Oxford- Stage 2-Song Bind-Up Singing Dad
Another great book for early readers who are now learning more difficult words. It also provides some fantastic chances to discuss and practice empathy for the characters' potential thoughts and feelings. These phonic books are a wonderful way to support your child's academic progress and add to their schoolwork.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 128
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Phonics, reading development, vibrant pictures.
82. Best for Learning Phonemes: Read With Oxford- Stage 2-Song Bind-Up Ron Rabbit
Seven entertaining stories with vibrant illustrations are included in this collection, which focuses on phonics skill development. Phonics stage 2 enables your child to get familiar with the sounds that letters create. The funny story of Ron the rabbit helps your child pick up the information in a better way.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 128
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Has rhymes and is easy to read
83. Best in Autobiographies: Malala's Magic Pencil
This book, which is full of grit and hope, tells the tale of the courageous Malala to a younger audience. Using a magic pencil and an engaging story, this book raises children's awareness of the global human rights situation and how kids should make their voices heard. It has also been shortlisted for the Little Rebel Children's Book Award.
Author: Malala Yousafzai
Genre: Autobiography
No of Pages: 48
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Educational, edifying, and amusing.
84. Best in Stories about Menaces: The Highway Rat
An enthralling story following a notorious rat who likes to do wrong things. Great for helping your kids understand what sort of behaviour is not appreciated if anyone is being a menace. It also has multiple interesting characters to add to the fascinating storyline.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Animal characters, depiction of friendship and kindness.
Cons: Has villainous elements
85. Best in Kids Peer Pressure Books: The Little Yellow Llama
An adorable children's book that teaches kids the importance of being brave and speaking out for themselves even when they face peer pressure. Kids enjoy the story's humour, adventure, and timeless life lessons. They will be inspired to try new things and take chances as a result.
Author: Shannon L Mokry
Genre: Fiction, fantasy
No of Pages: 38
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Focused on friendship, self-love and kindness.
86. Best for Socio-Emotional Learning: Jake the Growling Dog
Here’s a good book to teach your child about inclusivity. The story follows Jake’s journey from being lonely to being accepted by a group of understanding friends. Numerous school counselling programmes have incorporated Jake's peaceful message of kindness, mindfulness, and empathy.
Author: Samantha Shannon
Genre: Fiction - Poetry
No of Pages: 32
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Social-Emotional learning resource focuses on kindness and diversity.
87. Best for Pop Up Stories: My First Pop Up Fairy Tales - Little Red Riding Hood
Stunning illustrations and intricate pop-up scenes let your child fully immerse themselves in the narrative of this book. As you turn the pages, you will join Little Red Riding Hood's enchanted world and get to know all of her story's characters. Enjoy this timeless tale, one of the best story books to read for kids, with its fascinating pop-up book as you enter Little Red Riding Hood's wonderful world.
Author: Wonder House Books
Genre: Fairy Tale
No of Pages: 40
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Pop-up book, durable, and a classic
88. Best for Cat Stories: Twinkles, Arthur, and Puss
Here you have another modern classic from the author of "The Tiger Who Came to Tea." This book has great appeal to children who enjoy mischief and four-legged feline friends. It is also a great book to read to children when you intend to get a pet for them.
Author: Judith Kerr
Genre: Fiction – Animal characters
No of Pages: 40
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Multiple interesting characters, funny and uplifting.
89. Best in Multi-Sensory Play: My First Pop-Up Fairy Tales - Three Little Pigs
Here’s one of the best examples of children's story books in a pop-up structure. This helps your little one theorise the story in a more evolved and structured way. Additionally, it is also a useful technique to incorporate multi-sensory play into your child's storytime.
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 10
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Encourages a child's creativity, improves language and speaking skills.
Cons: Low saturation
90. Best in Curly Hair Characters: I Hate My Curly Hair
The adventures of a young girl with curls are depicted in this book. Her poetically-described path to self-love. This book is witty, fun, and hopeful for children who struggle with accepting curly hair. It is also a great way to help your child be more considerate and accepting of other kids with curly hair.
Author: Divya Anand
Genre: Realistic Fiction
No of Pages: 40
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Self-love, empowering story & good illustrations.
Cons: Can be a trigger for kids who are bullied.
91. Best in Phonics Level 3: Read With Oxford- Stage 3-Song Bind-Up Spike Says
At stage 3 of learning phonics, as your child starts to learn graphemes and the alphabet song, this book is good to support their quick learning. At this stage, you will also find your child taking ownership of their favourite books to read, so introducing a book that is informative is a great way to go.
Author: Julia Donaldson
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
No of Pages: 128
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Good for intermediate phonic learning, reading, and listening skills.
92. Best in Collections: Ruskin Bond - Best Selling Children Story Books Collection
This collection of tales includes The Blue Umbrella, Tales from the Childhood, From the Cradle of Nature, and Stories of Wisdom, among others. The combination is flavorful in wisdom and humor. For kids who enjoy reading stories and are perpetually learning, it is a must.
Author: Ruskin Bond
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: Set of 4 books
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Enhances reading and storytelling skills, along with a slider case for storage.
93. Best for Adventure: Around the World in 80 Day
Looking for a book that is filled with adventure? This is the right book to introduce your child to. This book brings to you intricately developed characters, a presentation of a plethora of mindsets and perspectives, along with amazing descriptions of a multitude of places around the world.
Author: Jules Verne
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 240
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: A classic filled with travel and fun caricatures.
94. Best for Stories about Optimism: Pollyanna
If your child is drawn to classic children's literature, Pollyanna is a great addition to their library. The book tells a heartwarming story of the strength of optimism and a young girl's tenacity in the face of adversity. Readers of all ages, from youngsters to adults, will enjoy this timeless tale.
Author: Eleanor H. Porter
Genre: Fiction - Classics
No of Pages: 240
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Good for developing narration and communication skills.
95. Best in Indian Landscapes: Great Stories for Children
A great collection of stories for kids who are looking at expanding their vocabularies with a tinge of Indian landscapes. The stories are fun to read and captivating to the core. Some of Ruskin Bond's nicest children's tales are included in "Great Stories for Children."
Author: Ruskin Bond
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 200
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Multiple stories, interesting characters, and enthralling.
96. Best for Halloween: Isadora Moon Puts On A Show
An excellent book to introduce young children to vampires and prepare them for Halloween. It's a lovely fusion of gloomy gothic and glittering fairy tales. Your child will undoubtedly grin when they read a kind and jovial story about the fun family characters.
Author: Harriet Muncaster
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 128
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Refreshing pink and black artwork, with loads of magical moments.
97. Best in Women’s History Books: 101 Awesome Women Who Changed Our World
A book that can remain on your shelves throughout your child’s growth. The book is amazing if you want your child to learn about perseverance, advocating for themselves, and how they should dream big. These amazing women, who represent a diverse variety of nationalities, ages, and fields, are likely to serve as role models for kids everywhere.
Author: Julia Adams
Genre: Non-fiction
No of Pages: 128
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Informative, good starter to get kids reading non-fiction.
Cons: Some narratives may come across as political.
98. Best in Uplifting Stories: Wishtree
Looking for a book to gift to young readers who may be feeling low? This is the quintessential book, giving an uplifting message filled with morals. It places good emphasis on themes of tolerance, kindness, and empathy.
Author: Katherine Applegate
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 224
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Impactful for young minds and soothing.
99. Best in Polar Bear Stories: The Last Bear
Through this book, the story of a little girl who embarks on a quest to help her new furry friend is profoundly expressed. This book is rife with environmental conservation advice. It is a must-read for nature and animal lovers.
Author: Hannah Gold
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 320
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Powerful narrative, heart-warming, and adventurous.
100. Best in Magic: The Girl Who Drank the Moon
A great book for kids to spark their imaginations. The magical elements combined with critical thinking scenarios will keep your kids on their toes throughout the narrative. A completely magical and thoughtfully put-together storyline awaits your child.
Author: Kelly Barnhill
Genre: Fiction, fantasy, mystery
No of Pages: 416
Suitable Age: 5+ years
Pros: Catchy storyline, has magical elements, and good to build vocabulary.
Cons: Need to have an extensive vocabulary to read easily.
What To Look For In A Kids Story Book?
Kids usually like storybooks that are colourful and vibrant and that include good rhymes and repetition. The following tips will help you make a good first impression of books:- More illustrations: You can start with books that have more illustrations and opportunities that allow parents to read aloud.
- Multiple characters: Once your child gets habituated to your reading, look for books that have a variety of characters and storylines.
- Relatability: You can also look for storylines that your child will relate to. For instance, if your child likes dinosaur toys, getting a book on dinosaurs would help your child become more imaginative.
- Values: You can also look for books that impart good values and that will help your child expand their vocabulary.
- Tactility: Keep an eye on the textures of the books for early readers, try to get wipeable and not so easy to tear, like board books and rag books.
This list of 100 recommended children's books is an excellent place for parents and teachers to start when seeking age-appropriate literature because reading is a crucial aspect of a child's development. Kids of all ages will love these books, which cover a wide range of genres and topics and include both old and new works. With the help of these books, kids can enjoy reading, discover intriguing new stories, and pick up worthwhile lessons. We can foster a lifetime love of reading in children by introducing them to these books.
Wondering how to stay on top of all your munchkins' developmental needs? Head on over to your BabyG App today, and get complete access to 1000+ Development Activities, Milestones and Growth Reports, Meal Plans, Recipes, Bedtime Stories, Tips and a Global Community of like-minded parents.
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