Great Books for your Toddler: 5 Must-Reads

With so many new books out there, it is hard to decide which books are really worth the investment. Below you will find 5 must-reads, which will provide excellent toddler reading! Pick up a copy at the library and if your toddler loves it (and I’m sure they will), buy a copy. These books make a great foundation for your book collection!

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, Illustrated by Clement Hurd

The rhythm and rhyme of this story will really appeal to two-year-olds. Don’t be surprised if you read this one over and over before bed. Infact, the more you read it, the better! It will be the “get ready for bed” book, and this consistency is great for your toddler. Although saying goodnight to everything in the room may seem boring to the average adult reader, your toddler will delight in the simplistic message and pictures.

Jamberry by Bruce Degen

This book is, admittedly, my favorite picture book. The pictures and imagery are simply phenomenal. I walk away singing the words to this book every time after reading it. It is a super book, and will pull your toddler into a world of bountiful berry bliss! Read this book with them today!


Everyone Poops by Taro Gomi, Illustrated Amanda Mayer Stinchecum

Perfect for those toddlers, this book will amuse and delight them every time. It’s funny and it’s true. “Everyone Poops” is a great opportunity to bring potty-training issues to face, and learn a thing or two about animals.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear by Eric Carle

This is a great book to get your toddler reading! The repetition is a sure-fire way to get them reading along with you. They will learn the text, and say it along with you, or even by themselves. Then, pour on the praise! Kids will love this book if it makes them feel like they can read. Not to mention, the pictures are super fun; kids love Eric Carle books!

Are you My Mother? By P.D. Eastman

This one is a little long, but it’s worth the time. The story has a great theme, and the concept is interesting for toddlers. Pick up a copy and read it with your toddler; they will find the search for the “real mother” relatable and interesting. The simplistic pictures, and simplistic language makes it a sweet but ‘serious’ read!

I hope you will check into these great books for toddlers. They have provided me with many great reading memories, and I know they will provide you with the same!

Sylvia C. is a children's writer and poet. She also enjoys reading, going on walks, listening to music, and dancing. Sylvia teaches creative writing for kid’s classes and is an active member of the Kansas City Writer Meetup Group. She is currently pursuing publication for her children’s picture books.