23 Best Father’s Day Books for Kids
Father’s Day books for kids are the perfect gift to create lasting memories and celebrate the special bond between fathers and their children.
From picture books ideal for toddlers to engaging chapter books for young readers, these selections offer delightful stories that make for wonderful read-aloud experiences.
This curated list highlights heartwarming tales, interactive reads, and educational books that dads and kids can enjoy together. Let’s explore some of the best books for kids to make this Father’s Day memorable.
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Father’s Day picture books
“Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown
A timeless classic, “Goodnight Moon” is a soothing bedtime story that has been a favorite for generations. With its gentle rhyming text and calming illustrations, it’s perfect for winding down the day with dad.
“Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak
Maurice Sendak’s “Where the Wild Things Are” is an adventurous tale that encourages children to embrace their imagination. Max’s wild adventure and eventual return home is a heartwarming story about love and family, making it an excellent read for Father’s Day.
“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle
This beloved classic, featuring Eric Carle’s distinctive collage illustrations, is a delightful story of transformation. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” is a wonderful way for dads and kids to explore the wonders of nature together.
“Caps for Sale” by Esphyr Slobodkina
A humorous and engaging story, “Caps for Sale” is perfect for a read-aloud session. This tale of a peddler, his caps, and some mischievous monkeys will have kids giggling and dads enjoying the playful antics.
Celebrating the Father-child bond
“Guess How Much I Love You” by Sam McBratney
This sweet story of Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare expressing their love for each other is a tender read. “Guess How Much I Love You” is perfect for bedtime and reinforces the love between parent and child.
“Owl Moon” by Jane Yolen
“Owl Moon” tells the enchanting story of a father taking his child out into the night to search for an owl. Jane Yolen’s poetic text and John Schoenherr’s beautiful illustrations make it a quiet, yet powerful, tribute to the bond between fathers and their children.
“The Daddy Book” by Todd Parr
Todd Parr’s vibrant and inclusive illustrations celebrate all kinds of dads in “The Daddy Book.” This book is a joyful and affirming read that recognizes the unique and diverse ways fathers show their love.
Fun and interactive reads
“Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!” by Mo Willems
Mo Willems’ humorous book invites children to interact with the story by telling the pigeon “No!” This fun and engaging book is great for dads to read aloud, encouraging lively participation from their kids.
“Press Here” by Hervé Tullet
An interactive picture book that prompts children to press, shake, and tilt the book to see what happens next, “Press Here” is a playful read that will keep both dads and kids entertained.
Add these to our free Father’s Day printables for even more fun.
“We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury
Join the adventure in “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” a rhythmic and repetitive tale that’s perfect for reading aloud. This book’s adventurous spirit and engaging illustrations make it a family favorite.
Stories of Fathers and their children
“Jabari Jumps” by Gaia Cornwall
“Jabari Jumps” is a story of a young boy overcoming his fear of diving with the encouragement of his supportive father. This book beautifully captures the importance of a dad’s reassurance and belief in his child.
“My Dad Used to Be So Cool” by Keith Negley
A humorous look at a father who used to be in a rock band, “My Dad Used to Be So Cool” explores the theme of parental sacrifice and the cool things dads do for their kids. It’s a touching read that also brings laughs.
“Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me” by Eric Carle
In “Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me,” a father’s love knows no bounds as he tries to bring the moon to his daughter. Eric Carle’s dreamy illustrations and simple, heartfelt story make this a perfect bedtime read.
Chapter books for young readers
“Danny, the Champion of the World” by Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl’s “Danny, the Champion of the World” tells the story of a boy and his father who plan a daring poaching adventure. This Roald Dahl book is full of Dahl’s signature wit and warmth, making it a great read for older kids.
“The Penderwicks” by Jeanne Birdsall
“The Penderwicks” follows the adventures of four sisters and their father during a summer holiday. This heartwarming and humorous series highlights the close-knit family bonds and is perfect for family read-aloud sessions.
“Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo
In “Because of Winn-Dixie,” a girl and her dog bring together a small community and help her to reconnect with her father. Kate DiCamillo’s writing is both touching and profound, making it a great book for discussing emotions and relationships.
Non-fiction and educational books
“How People Learned to Fly” by Fran Hodgkins and True Kelley
For kids fascinated by flight, “How People Learned to Fly” is a wonderful non-fiction book that explains the history and science behind human flight. It’s a great educational read that dads can share with their curious kids.
“Dads Are the Original Hipsters” by Brad Getty
This humorous book offers a fun take on how dads have always been cool. Filled with vintage photos and witty commentary, it’s a perfect Father’s Day gift that older kids can enjoy with their dads.
Books for the youngest readers
“Daddy Hugs” by Karen Katz
A sweet board book for babies and toddlers, “Daddy Hugs” celebrates the special hugs that dads give. The bright, cheerful illustrations and simple text make it a delightful book for the youngest readers.
“I Love My Daddy Because…” by Laurel Porter-Gaylord
This charming board book pairs loving text with beautiful illustrations of animal fathers and their babies. “I Love My Daddy Because…” is perfect for toddlers and helps them express their love for dad.
Unique and special reads
“Last Stop on Market Street” by Matt de la Peña and Christian Robinson
A Newbery Medal and Caldecott Honor book, “Last Stop on Market Street” is a touching story about a boy and his grandmother. While not specifically about fathers, it’s a beautiful tale of family, community, and finding beauty in everyday experiences.
“Dad By My Side” by Soosh
“Dad By My Side” by Soosh is a heartfelt picture book that beautifully illustrates the special bond between a father and his daughter. The detailed, emotive illustrations capture the warmth and closeness of their relationship.
“Made for Me” by Zack Bush and Gregorio De Lauretis
This book is a tender love letter from a father to his child. “Made for Me” captures the profound emotions of fatherhood with lyrical text and endearing illustrations, making it a perfect gift for new dads.
Last Updated on 18 July 2024 by Clare Brown