My hubs and I are big fat book nerds (I think I’ve mentioned that once or twice or maybe a million times). Because we’re book nerds, we’ve made it our mission in life to make our little ladies book nerds too.
Both girls have been read to pretty much since they emerged from the womb (and, really, Ellie was read to while she was still in there–with special singing performances from her big sister). And you know what? These kids love books.
Since I’m a big time reading cheerleader, I usually like to give the kids in my life a book when it comes time for gift giving. Don’t get me wrong, I usually throw some toys in there too (I’m no fool), but I like to look around for a book they might really like.
Most of the time this means going on a hunt for something silly. Kids love silly. And they really love the unexpectedly silly. They also really like wordplay, whether it’s repetition or fun sound combinations.
OK, let me get off my nerdy soapbox and get to the point of this post. I put together a little list of what are, in my opinion, the best kids books. These are books that I actually don’t mind reading for the 849th time in a week. I intentionally left out most of the widely known classics (no Dr. Seuss on this list, for example) and made sure to include some newbies as well as older choices.
The list starts out with short and simple books that will hold the attention of a toddler and becomes more in-depth.
But Not the Hippopotamus / Dear Zoo / Press Here / The Pout-Pout Fish / The Day the Babies Crawled Away / Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus (all Mo Willems books are a hit in this house) / Wemberly Worried / Pinkalicious / The Paper Bag Princess / Diary of a Worm / Frankly Frannie (series) / Cam Jansen (series) / Encyclopedia Brown (series) / The Birthday Ball
This list is by no means exhaustive. I’m sure as soon as I hit publish I’m going to think of three that I should have included. But it’s still a great starting off point if you’re on the hunt for a great kids book. And if you’re looking for even more fantastic children’s book options, check out 30 Picture Books Your Family is Guaranteed to Love.
What are your top choices for Best Kids Books?
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Hi! I'm Jen, a freelance writer and girl mom who loves reading the newest children’s books as much as I love a good psychological thriller. I believe fiercely in the power of kindness, empathy, and really good quality chocolate. When I'm not knee-deep in glittery crafts and girl talk, you can probably find me sprawled out on my couch in the middle of a Netflix marathon with dark chocolate smeared on my face. The struggle is real. 
1) alexander and the terrible horrible no good very bad day – sam will love it.
2) spinky sulks.
3) dr. desoto
more to follow
You are correct, Joanie! We have the top two and Sam LOVES them. I’m going to check out Dr. Desoto when we head to Barnes and Noble in a bit!
I don’t remember reading any of the above books when I was younger! My days were filled with a lot of Enid Blyton though so you should check that out – all that pixie/enchantress/wizards/talking bunnies/gnomes stories still make me read them today! The best is the collection of “The Enchanted Wood”! Every other day a different land above this big big tree!
What a great selection of books! I love getting my son books. Problem is, my baby loves RIPPING the pages out of them. Man… I’ll have to check these titles out – I love giving books as gifts!