Kids naturally love animals. They’re cute, playful and easy to relate to. So it’s no wonder that books about animals can help kids fall in love with reading as they explore the captivating worlds that their favorite critters live in. Whether the animals are cuddly, comforting, silly or sweet, kids of any age will love these animal books.
The Valentine
By: Monique Felix
Age range: 0-4
This sweet little story is told without any words at all. A small mouse displays creativity as he chews through the page of a book and folds it into a little house. He starts out by making a heart-shaped hole that ends up as a roof. Kids will discover other woodland creatures like butterflies, ants and bees as well. In the end, this animal book is about ingenuity and kindness, as the little mouse shares his house.
The Kissing Hand
By: Audrey Penn
Age range: 3-7
In this heartwarming story about growing up, Chester doesn’t want to go to school. His mother gives him some encouragement and a special token of her love. She kisses his hand and assures him that the kiss will stay with him all day, and if ever he misses her he can press his hand to his cheek and feel her love. Chester’s “kissing hand” gets him through the day and reminds us of the power even the simplest gestures can hold.
Little Frog & The Scary Autumn Thing
By: Jane Yolen
Age range: 3-7
This is a story about facing your fears and accepting change, even when it’s scary. Little Frog feels completely puzzled by her first Autumn. Mama Frog helps her realize that new things might be scary at first, but if you are brave enough to explore them, you might realize there’s nothing to be afraid of after all. She eventually discovers the beauty and fun of a colorful new season in this uplifting animal book.
Deep in the Swamp
By: Donna M. Bateman
Age range: 5-7
Kids will learn all about fun animals that live in the Okefenokee Swamp, a real-life swamp and part of a wildlife refuge in Georgia. Through counting and rhyming, the animals grow in number from one to ten. With beautifully-detailed illustrations, and flora and fauna swamp facts at the end, this book about animals and their habitats is both immersive and educational.
Dirty Birdies
By: Jennifer Sattler
Age range: 0-5
This light-hearted picture book is a great book about animals for toddlers learning to count. It starts with one dirty birdie and turns into five dirty birdies before they finally make their way to the bath. Kids get to follow the wild activities of each dirty birdie with colorful and vibrant illustrations. This entertaining book has several counting questions at the end for young readers to go back and practice their counting.
With these animal books at their fingertips, kids can grow in their love for reading while they dive into the animal kingdom. Some stories encourage kindness and empathy, while others teach bravery and courage. All will speak to their inner animal lover! And if you’re looking for more educational animal books, check out our Animals Collection.
