The 14 Best Books for 5-Year-Olds

They're starting kindergarten, and reading is a huge deal now. Here are the best books your kids will actually love.

A collage of the best books for 5 year olds.

The best books for 5-year-olds depend a lot on the individual kid, but they should all take into account the big changes under way in a 5-year-old ‘s life: The start of school , new friendships and an evolving relationship with parents that can make for a tumultuous and transformative year. The best books for 5-year-olds will hook into their daily emotional experiences and reflect their lives right back to them. These books for 5-year-olds will ensure they remain interested as both the narratives and the ethics of the characters grow more complex. And as your 5-year-old strikes out to learn to read by themselves, they’ll be happy to have stuff they might actually be able to start practicing (with a little help from mom and dad).

The Best Books for 5-Year-Olds

The Good Egg by Jory John and Pete Oswald

Here's a good egg, trying its best to do the right thing. But the other eggs in the carton misbehave, sending the nice egg into an existential crisis of sorts. What's the point of being good, when others still do bad things? The good egg cracks under pressure, goes on a self-discovery journey and learns that it's OK to be imperfect and that you'll still be loved, warts and all.

The Book with No Pictures by B.J Novak

Simply one of the greatest and most clever picture books ever written, this one has no pictures. Zero. None. Instead of pictures, parents have to say crazy words like blork or blurf. Kids use their imaginations to fill in the gaps, and this book is that rare one you'll never get sick of reading out loud. Because it never stops being funny.

How Do You Dance? by Thyra Heder

There's no wrong way to boogie. A whimsical, gleeful look at all the different ways we can cut a rug, from bopping to snapping your fingers to bouncing around. It's a wonderful look at the beauty of self-expression through dance, and how no matter what you do, you're doing something that reflects how you feel.

Crocodiles Need Kisses Too by Rebecca Colby

They may not look like us. They may not sound like us. They not even be a little cute. No matter. Crocodiles need love too. This lovely book shows kids that all creatures are worthy of affection, and that tigers, snakes, and even porcupines are utterly lovable.

Truman by Jean Reidy

When Sarah leaves for her first day of school on the city bus, her pet turtle, Truman, grows worried as his impossibly long day alone stretches on. Jean Reidy's tale of courage in the face of the new operates as a warm-hearted tale but also shows kids the power of metaphor: As Sarah ventures out into the city toward school, Truman begins his own arduous parallel journey across the living room. Both Sarah and Truman are quiet and thoughtful creatures, and their story offers a sweet, pensive atmosphere in which to ponder friendship, feelings of aloneness and the rewards of adventure.

Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin

Kindergartners, like the dragons in this book, are likely to be averse to certain foods. And the chaos presented when the dragons get a hint of spice is both catastrophic and ultimately redeeming. It’s an easy read with funky illustrations and a disjointed style reminiscent of how kids tell stories, which makes it a real crowd-pleaser.

Click, Clack, Moo Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin

This is a book about cows that can type and a very frustrated farmer who wants them to stop. The strangeness of Farmer Brown's farm and the shenanigans of the barely anthropomorphized animals will give kids a certain thrill. That’s particularly true for kindergartners who are willing to engage in rebellions as recognizable as that of the typing cows.

The Rainbow Goblins

'The Rainbow Goblins' is a tale of mythic proportions and has the air of Kipling's 'Just So Stories.' The book follows a group of color-feeding goblins who catch and drain rainbows on their way to their biggest score yet. But things don’t work out. The illustrations are rich and entrancing and the story is dark and strange. No wonder alt-rock group Primus turned it into a theme album.

A Fish Out of Water by Helen Palmer

In kindergarten kids become very curious about pet ownership and the stories that cater to that narrative have a tendency to be saccharine and unhelpful. 'A Fish Out of Water' came out of an era when kids had consequences, and when one kid feeds his goldfish too much it quickly becomes a local emergency. The urgency and pathos are palpable and the stakes are high. It’s the perfect pet prep book.

Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!

Parents who are concerned that their kids could get swindled by hucksters should introduce them to the manic and persuasive main character of 'Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus.' There’s plenty of opportunity for interactive call and response and kids will thrill at frustrating the pigeon on every page.

I'm Gonna Like Me: Letting Off a Little Self-Esteem by Jamie Lee Curtis and Laura Cornell

When Jamie Lee Curtis wasn’t being chased by Michael Myers, she found time to pen a pretty great book about self-esteem. As kids get into the kindergarten classroom for the first time, they just may need the confidence boost the book offers on every easily rhyming page.

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett

The classic 'Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs' needs no explanation or experimentation to make its weird food weather easier to swallow. The falling flapjacks and meatball rain are simply presented as meteorological mysteries and the book is so much better for it.

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Max is a kindergarten hero and the Wild Things are deeply indicative of the kind of friendships kids build with one another. Every page of 'Wild Things' is affecting, emotional, and perfectly tuned to the temperament of 5-year-olds. It’s also a quick, easy read before bedtime.

Bob Books, Set 1: Beginning Readers by Lynn Maslen

Bob Books don’t present the most interesting narratives, but that’s not the point. The point is that they are incredibly easy first books for kids who are just starting to read. The feeling of accomplishment after a kid polishes off a Bob Book on their own will be apparent in their massive grin.

Every product on Fatherly is independently selected by our editors, writers, and experts. If you click a link on our site and buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This article was originally published on July 11, 2019

books for 5 year olds

books for 5 year olds

The 50 Best Books for 5- and 6-Year-Olds

By melissa taylor.

There’s so much happening with 5- and 6-year-olds. They’re learning to tie their shoes, practicing cutting out shapes with scissors, some are even ready to ride a bike. There’s a big continuum of development at these ages, and that applies to children’s reading development, too. Some kids are not yet ready to read, while others are reading independently. And that’s as it should be, according to both developmental and literacy experts.

No matter where your child is on this developmental continuum, here you’ll discover the best books to encourage their love of reading. Each book has been carefully selected by our group of experts .

Since we also think that finding books in a series is like discovering buried treasure, we’ve put asterisks next to the titles that are part of a larger series.

So whether your 5- or 6-year-old is building their reading foundation with picture books or reading chapter books on their own, here are our go-to books to entice, entertain, and educate.

Heading out to your local library or bookstore? You can download the full version of the list here.

uniE601 Shared Stories: Picture and Poetry Books  

Sharing a story with your child is always worth it. Whether they can read independently or not, reading aloud is a special experience. It also helps to build their literacy foundations and keep them engaged with reading.

It’s a good idea to keep picture books in the mix even as your child’s reading skills grow, as they offer kids a greater variety of reading choices and have a strong visual appeal.

This list of picture books contains a variety of genres, kid-appealing topics, captivating illustrations, and diverse characters. Best of all, they’re well written and kids love them.

Actual Size*

Actual Size*

by Steve Jenkins

Born in the Wild: Baby Mammals and Their Parents

Born in the Wild: Baby Mammals and Their Parents

by Lita Judge

Dinotrux

by Chris Gall

The Dot

by Peter H. Reynolds

Duck! Rabbit!

Duck! Rabbit!

by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld

Last Stop on Market Street

Last Stop on Market Street

by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson

Miss Nelson Is Missing

Miss Nelson Is Missing

by Harry G. Allard Jr., illustrated by James Marshall

Over the Hills and Far Away: A Treasury of Nursery Rhymes

Over the Hills and Far Away: A Treasury of Nursery Rhymes

edited by Elizabeth Hammill

The Paper Bag Princess

The Paper Bag Princess

by Robert Munsch, illustrated by Michael Martchenko

Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes*

Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes*

by Eric Litwin, illustrated by James Dean

Piggie Pie!

Piggie Pie!

by Margie Palatini, illustrated by Howard Fine

Shark vs. Train

Shark vs. Train

by Chris Barton, illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs

by Jon Scieszka, illustrated by Lane Smith

Where the Sidewalk Ends*

Where the Sidewalk Ends*

by Shel Silverstein

You Read to Me, I’ll Read to You: Very Short Fairy Tales to Read Together*

You Read to Me, I’ll Read to You: Very Short Fairy Tales to Read Together*

by Mary Ann Hoberman, illustrated by Michael Emberley

You Will Be My Friend!*

You Will Be My Friend!*

by Peter Brown

uniE601 First Books to Read Alone: Beginning Readers  

It’s exciting when your child starts to read! Now they’re learning sight words , or words to know at a glance, and the books they’re reading contain these words. At this stage, it’s helpful for them to read books that map to their background knowledge or areas of interest.

Beginning reading books start with a few simple words or phrases per page. As your child grows in their ability, the difficulty increases. The phrases become sentences and eventually paragraphs. Start with the easier beginning books first and adjust as your child progresses.

If you’re curious about the specific reading level of a book, you can check its level here  or ask your child’s teacher.

Ballerina Dreams: From Orphan to Dancer

Ballerina Dreams: From Orphan to Dancer

by Michaela DePrince and Elaine DePrince, illustrated by Frank Morrison

Benny and Penny in Just Pretend*

Benny and Penny in Just Pretend*

by Geoffrey Hayes

Bink and Gollie*

Bink and Gollie*

by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee, illustrated by Tony Fucile

Bathtime for Biscuit*

Bathtime for Biscuit*

by Alyssa Satin Capucilli, illustrated by Pat Schories

Today I Will Fly!* (An Elephant and Piggie book)

Today I Will Fly!* (An Elephant and Piggie book)

by Mo Willems

Hi! Fly Guy*

Hi! Fly Guy*

by Tedd Arnold

Fly Guy Presents: Space*

Fly Guy Presents: Space*

Frog and Toad Are Friends*

Frog and Toad Are Friends*

by Arnold Lobel

George and Martha*

George and Martha*

by James Marshall

Go, Dog. Go!

Go, Dog. Go!

by P.D. Eastman

Good Night, Good Knight*

Good Night, Good Knight*

by Shelley Moore Thomas, illustrated by Jennifer Plecas

Henry and Mudge: The First Book*

Henry and Mudge: The First Book*

by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Suçie Stevenson

Ling & Ting: Not Exactly the Same!*

Ling & Ting: Not Exactly the Same!*

by Grace Lin

May I Please Have a Cookie?*

May I Please Have a Cookie?*

by Jennifer Morris

Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can You?

Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can You?

by Dr. Seuss

One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish

One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish

Penny and Her Marble*

Penny and Her Marble*

by Kevin Henkes

Spiders

by Nic Bishop

uniE601 Reading Like the Big Kids: Early Chapter Books  

Chapter books are the Holy Grail for growing readers. Kids want so badly to be like the big kids. But don’t rush. Joy can easily turn to frustration if your child isn’t ready. When they are ready, we think they’ll devour these books.

We’ve vetted our list to include books with boys, girls, robots, magic, diverse characters, and child-friendly topics. Even better, all of these books are in a series. So if they like one, your child has more to read by the same author.

Baby Mouse #1: Queen of the World!*

Baby Mouse #1: Queen of the World!*

by Jennifer Holm and Matthew Holm

Bad Kitty*

by Nick Bruel

The Chicken Squad*

The Chicken Squad*

by Doreen Cronin, illustrated by Kevin Cornell

Clementine*

Clementine*

by Sara Pennypacker, illustrated by Marla Frazee

Dora Fantasmagory*

Dora Fantasmagory*

by Abby Hanlon

EllRay Jakes Is Not a Chicken*

EllRay Jakes Is Not a Chicken*

by Sally Warner, illustrated by Jamie Harper

Gooney Bird Greene*

Gooney Bird Greene*

by Lois Lowry, illustrated by Middy Thomas

Magic Tree House #1: Dinosaurs Before Dark*

Magic Tree House #1: Dinosaurs Before Dark*

by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca

Mercy Watson to the Rescue*

Mercy Watson to the Rescue*

by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Chris Van Dusen

Nikki & Deja*

Nikki & Deja*

by Karen English, illustrated by Laura Freeman

Princess in Black*

Princess in Black*

by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot*

Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot*

by Dav Pilkey, illustrated by Dan Santat

Ruby Lu, Empress of Everything*

Ruby Lu, Empress of Everything*

by Lenore Look, illustrated by Anne Wilsdorf

Stink: The Incredible Shrinking Kid*

Stink: The Incredible Shrinking Kid*

by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds

Violet Mackerel’s Remarkable Recovery*

Violet Mackerel’s Remarkable Recovery*

by Anna Branford, illustrated by Elanna Allen

Learn more about the experts behind this reading list.

Get the printable version of the list .

Explore our  50 Best series  to get great recommendations for other ages.

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50 Best Books for 5 Year Olds To Read in 2024

This best books for 5 year olds list will turn your child into an enthusiastic book lover.

As they embark on their reading journey, tackle the challenge of reluctant readers by finding the perfect books to ignite their excitement. Let this list be your guide!

Continue reading for a free printable and valuable tips to enhance your child’s engagement.

best 5 year olds books list for boys and girls

Best Fiction Picture Books for 5 Year Olds

First, we start with fun story books that preschool, kindergarten, and first grade students adore.

This post contains affiliate links, and we may earn a commission at no cost to you. See our disclaimer for more.

Best books for 5 year olds

1. We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins (Ages 3-5)

We Don't Eat Our Classmates

Have you ever thought about eating a classmate? Penelope Rex is eager to make new friends on the first day of school. The only problem is that humans are delicious!

Read this silly story to discover how Penelope learns to make friends instead of eating them.

See We Don’t Eat Our Classmates here >>

2. The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister (Ages 2-6)

*International Best-seller and Modern Classic

The Rainbow Fish: best books for 5 year olds in 2022

A lonely rainbow fish learns the joy of giving by sharing its shimmering scales with new friends. Experience the award-winning book’s captivating story through beautiful watercolor illustrations and shiny foil scales.

3. The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper (Ages 3-7)

The Little Engine That Could book

A stranded train is unable to find an engine to help it over the mountain. Until the Little Blue Engine comes along. In this classic storybook for 5-year-olds, readers discover the true power of positive thinking.

“I think I can, I think I can.”

See The Little Engine That Could here >>

4. Click, Clack, Moo, Cows that Type by Doreen Cronin Illustrated by Betsy Lewin (Ages 3-8)

Click Clack Moo, Cows That Type

Cows that use a typewriter? When Farmer Brown’s farm animals decide to go on strike, he has to figure out how to reach a compromise to take back his farm! See this cute story here >>

5. How I Became a Pirate by Melinda Long Illustrated by David Shannon (Ages 4-7)

*New York Times Bestseller

How I became a pirate: 5 year old books to read aloud

Sail into an adventure as Jeremy goes from a boy building a sandcastle to a real pirate off to bury treasure. Will he decide that living a pirate’s life is better than his own? Read to find out about his exciting adventures on the high seas.

6. The Berenstain Bears and the Spooky Old Tree by Stan and Jan Berenstain (Ages 2-5)

Join the Berenstain bear cubs as they bravely go on a spooky trip through an old tree. Will they awaken the Great Sleeping Bear?

7. Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae (Ages 4-8)

Giraffes Can't Dance

Gerald wishes to dance, but his clumsiness brings him down. However, he discovers a new rhythm, realizing he can dance with a different beat.

Colorful illustrations and rhyme make Gerald the most loveable giraffe .

8. Curious George Goes to a Chocolate Factory by Margret and H.A. Rey (Ages 4-7)

Curious George Goes to the Chocolate Factory: classic 5 year old books

When Curious George visits a chocolate factory, things are bound to go awry!

Follow this always inquisitive character as he goes behind the scenes to see how chocolates are made. (And causes a little trouble along the way!)

9. Franklin’s Bad Day by Paulette Bourgeois Illustrated by Brenda Clark (Ages 3-8)

What happens when your best friend moves away, and nothing seems to be going right? Children will relate to Franklin’s many troubles AND see how Franklin figures out how to turn his bad day around.

10. Stick and Stone by Beth Ferry Illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld (Ages 4-7)

*Teacher’s Pick

Stick and Stone book

Bestselling BFF’s, Stick and Stone rescue each other from tough situations and teach us the true meaning of friendship. With kindness and compassion, Stick and Stone make this book “a perfect ten.”

11. Can I Be Your Dog? By Troy Cummings (Ages 3-7)

*New York Times Best Seller (& Featured on the Today Show)

Can I Be Your Dog?

Arfy, a dog in search of a home, writes heartfelt letters to Butternut Street residents, hoping to find acceptance. Beware, this heartwarming story may inspire your next pet adoption!

See Can I Be Your Dog? here >>

12. How Do Dinosaurs Learn to Read? By Jane Yolen Illustrated by Mark Teague (Ages 3-5)

*Popular How Do Dinosaurs Books series

Navigate the challenges of learning to read with laughter as dinosaurs showcase their antics. A humorous book for both parents and children. Don’t miss out on this book !

13. The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes and Vanessa Brantley-Newton (Ages 3-6)

The King of Kindergarten: best books for 5 year olds to read themselves

Going to school can be scary, but with the right mindset, you can conquer all and become King of Kindergarten !

14. Me and My Dragon by David Biedrzycki (Ages 4-8)

Me and My Dragon: best books for 4-5 year olds

Would you like to have a dragon for a pet? In this humorous story , a boy envisions life with a perfect pet dragon. With a dragon as a pet, always keep a fire extinguisher handy and NEVER feed him broccoli!

15. The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter (Ages 3-7)

*Classic book for 5 year olds

When Peter Rabbit doesn’t heed the warning from his mother to stay out of Mr. McGregor’s garden, he has to make a tricky escape!

This classic has been around for over 100 years and is a must read for all children!

16. Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev (Ages 4-8)

* “A sunny, smart, tongue-in-cheek tale.” — The New York Times Book Review

Strictly No Elephants

Join a boy and his pet elephant rejected from a pet club for a Strictly No Elephants policy. On their journey home, they befriend a girl with a pet skunk, forming their own special club. This heartwarming book explores the true meaning of friendship.

17. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr and John Archambault (Ages 4-8)

#1 Best Seller (and great for reviewing the alphabet!)

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: best books reading story books for 5-6 year olds

“Skit skat skoodle doot flip flop flee!” Kids will get to know all the letters in the alphabet and be rhyming along in no time with this timeless classic. “I’ll meet you at the top of the coconut tree!”

See Chicka Chicka Boom Boom here >>

18. Truman by Jean Reidy (Ages 4-8)

*Award Winning Best Books Ages 3-5

Truman the tortoise, grows concerned when Sarah takes the number 11 bus. In a heartwarming tale , join Truman on his brave adventure in devotion to his friend.

19. The Bath Monster by Colin Boyd (Ages 4-9)

The Bath Monster

Discover where your bathwater goes as Jackson, skeptical of the bath monster, stops taking baths. However, without dirty water, he may become the bath monster’s next target!

See The Bath Monster here >>

20. The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn (Ages 3-7)

*Great book for kindergarten separation

The Kissing Hand: good book for kindergarten students

While school is about to start for Chester the raccoon, he’s scared and doesn’t want to go. To help, Chester’s mother shares a family secret called the kissing hand.

See this sweet book here  >>

21. Love You Forever by Robert Munsch (Ages 0-6)

*Classic 4-5 year old book

Love You Forever boys and girls readers

Love You Forever is an anthem for every parent to read to their child. Watch as one mother holds, cares for, and loves her baby unconditionally as he grows into an adult.

This is a sweet book to read before bed. See these night time stories for more ideas at bedtime.

22. The Box Turtle by Vanessa Roeder (Ages 3-5)

*Editor’s Pick for Best Books Ages 3-5

The Box Turtle: good story picture book

Terrance, a turtle in search of the perfect shell, finds love in a cardboard box. Despite others’ opinions, he discovers the sweetness in embracing his uniqueness in this heartwarming tale.

See The Box Turtle Here >>

23. The Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson (Ages 3-7)

*From the Creators of the Gruffalo

The Snail and the Whale

In this epic adventure , a tiny snail meets a humpback whale. The two travel far and wide. The snail is delighted to see so much of the world! Until the whale swims too close to shore…

24. The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith (Ages 2-5)

*Crazy popular!

The Wonkey Donkey book

This hysterical read-aloud will have everyone laughing! Enjoy the song as it builds up and ends with quite the winky wonky donkey.

25. Tikki Tikki Tembo by Arlene Mosel (Ages 2-6)

*Our family favorite!

Tikki Tikki Tembo book

Tikki Tikki Tembo has an extraordinarily long name as is the tradition for first born sons. But when his long name gets him in trouble, it will be up to his little brother to save him.

This is truly a book the entire family will enjoy.

26. The Little Red Hen by Paul Galdone (Ages 3-6)

*Classic Storybook

The Little Red Hen book: classic 5 year old books

No one agrees to help the little red hen as she plants wheat, and nurtures it until it’s ready to harvest. One day she is ready to bake bread and no one wants to help. Discover the outcome in this Kindergarten favorite perfect for sequencing story events!

27. A Collection of Stories for 5 year olds by Parragon Books

*unique collection of enchanting stories

Collection of stories for 5 year olds book

Add this book to your 5-year-olds library. It features fairy tales, nursery rhymes, and classic stories short enough to read at bedtime. Collect the entire series for ages 1-5.

28. Awesome Jokes That Every 5 Year Old Should Know! By Mat Waugh

Awesome Jokes That Every 5 year Old Should Know

“ What’s the best way to stop sleepwalking?”

Answer: sprinkle Legos on the floor!

“Why do giraffes have long necks?”

Answer: Because they have smelly feet!

If your 5-year-old loves to laugh, this is a must-have book !

29. Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang (Ages 2-5 year old books)

* #1 Bestseller

Grumpy Monkey

Jim the Chimpanzee is grumpy! His friends try to make him feel better, but it just doesn’t help. This book reminds us that maybe sometimes it’s okay to be grumpy!

30. The Smart Cookie by Jory John and Pete Oswald (Ages 4-8)

The Smart Cookie book to read aloud

Cookie is surrounded by smart pastries in the bakery. She longs to be a smart cookie. Will she discover what makes her special?

<<Find The Smart Cookie here! >>

Book Series for 5 Year Olds

Discover the best 5-year-old books that seamlessly fit into a captivating series. Engage young readers by introducing them to a collection where if they love one, they’ll love them all!

31. Pete the Cat Set by Eric Litwin (Ages 4-8)

#1 Best Seller

Pete the Cat: best book series for 5 year olds in 2023; 2024

Join the fashionable and groovy Pete the Cat in three different adventures. Catchy phrases and colorful illustrations will have your kids eager to take part in all of the stories of this musical and cool, blue cat.

32. Henry and Mudge, The First Book by Cynthia Rylant (Ages 4-7)

*Ready to Read Books for 5 Year Olds

Henry and Mudge: series

In the first book in this popular series Henry is feeling a bit lonely. Until he meets a new lovable companion, Mudge.

33. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff (Ages 4-8)

*#1 Best Seller

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie: best selling book series

Introduce your little one to Mouse and discover what can happen if you give a mouse a cookie! Young children will read this classic story again and again.

Other favorites from this series include: If You Give a Moose a Muffin and If You Give a Pig a Party

34. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly by Lucille Colandro (Ages 2-6)

This book is a favorite in this series! Now the crazy lady is swallowing…animals! Follow along with the original song as she fills her home full of pets in this zany twist.

35. Who is the Mystery Reader (An Unlimited Squirrels Book) by Mo Willems (Age 4-8)

Who is The mystery Reader book: 5-7 year olds

Zoom Squirrel has a new superpower from a mystery reader. Will he find out who the mystery reader is? Enjoy this new beginning-reader series from beloved author, Mo Willems. 

Good 5 Year Olds Books for Girls

Explore books featuring unicorns and mermaids, perfect for 5-year-old girls (and loved by boys too!).

36. Never Let a Unicorn wear a Tutu by Diane Alber (Ages 3-6)

Never Let a Unicorn Wear a Tutu

What happens when you give your unicorn a tutu? Enjoy vibrant illustrations and a fun and entertaining story about a girl and her unicorn.

37. I am a Super Girl! by Kelly Greenawalt (Ages 2-5)

This beginning reader features easy-to-read text, colorful illustrations, and silly humor to keep your 5 year old girl engaged. Watch as Truly saves the day in her rocket boots!

See I am a Super Girl! here >>

38. How to Catch a Mermaid by Adam Wallace (Ages 3-6)

*# 1 Best Seller

How to Catch a Mermaid: girl readers

Could you catch a mermaid? Discover how difficult it proves to be with the amazing traps and silly humor in this fun book .

39. Fancy Nancy and the Quest for the Unicorn

*Includes over 30 stickers

Fancy Nancy: best 5 year old books for girls

Nancy and Bree begin an epic quest to find a unicorn. And, of course, it’s extra fancy! See what the girls find as they follow a strange trail of glitter…

Best Books for 5 Year Old Boys

Celebrate the awesomeness of childhood with these books tailored for 5-year-old boys—though, of course, girls may find them just as enjoyable!

40. Dear Boy,: A Celebration of Cool, Clever, Compassionate You! By Paris Rosenthal (Ages 2-6)

#1 New York Times Best Seller

Dear Boy: best books for 5 year olds boys

This heartwarming book makes every boy feel special for being just the way he is.

41. The Boy with Big, Big Feelings by Britney Winn Lee (Ages 3-7)

The Boy With Big, Big Feelings

The Boy With Big, Big Feelings is perfect for kids navigating anxiety and strong emotions. This easy read encourages children, especially boys, to recognize that expressing emotions is normal and acceptable, rather than suppressing them.

42. Attack of the Underwear Dragon by Scott Rothman (Ages 3-6)

*Editor’s Pick Best Books Ages 3-5

Attack of the Underwear Dragon: boy readers

This book has fire-breathing dragons, brave knights, and….

See this silly adventure story here >>

43. Dinotrux by Chris Call (Ages 2-5)

*Popular Netflix TV series

Dinotrux boys book

Craneosaurus, Garbageadon, Tyrannosaurus Trux….meet the Dinotrux! In this book, travel back in time to when Dinotrux ruled the world! This first book in the series is great for kids that love dinosaurs and trucks!

Non Fiction Books Good For Ages 4-6

Next, these good 5 year old books help kids learn more about the world around them.

44. My Encyclopedia of Very Important Things by DK (Ages 5-9)

My Encyclopedia of Very Important Things: best non fiction reading books for 5 year olds to read themselves

Curious young minds will find the answers to all of their questions in this encyclopedia full of fun information, pictures, and games. Read hundreds of interesting facts written in a manner easy to understand for young readers.

45. National Geographic Readers (Level 1/ Ages 4-6)

*Perfect for any beginning reader!

National Geographic Kids

Curious kids will love to learn about butterflies, polar bears, koalas, and MORE in this 6-book set .

See the interesting collection here >>

46. Kindness Makes Me Stronger: Children’s Book about Magic of Kindness, Empathy and Respect (World of Kids Emotions)

Explore how much joy you get when you do kind things for others. This easy read is a great way to teach empathy and compassion through storytelling.

*This book is also featured in our best kindness books for kids list !

47. National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Why by Amy Shields (Ages 3-7)

Little Kids First Big Book of Why

“How does mushy dough become a crisp cookie?” and

“What makes a car go?”

This great almanac brings the fun of science to our preschoolers. See Little Kids First Big Book of Why here >>

If your child loves these, don’t miss Little Kids First Big Book of Space and Little Kids First Big Book of Dinosaurs .

Best Learning To Read Books for 5 Year Olds

These are the best books 5 year olds can read themselves. They are all specifically picked to be perfect for early readers.

48. Step into Reading: Big Shark, Little Shark by Anna Membrino (Ages 4-6)

best learning to read books for 5 year olds: Big Shark, Little Shark

Big shark is hungry! Will little shark be his snack? Colorful and bright illustrations grab the interest of early readers and give them clues to help decode the story.

See Big Shark, Little Shark here >>

49. Bob Books, Set 1: 5 Year Old Books Beginning Readers (Age 4-6)

Bob Books: best books for 5-6 year olds learning to read

Young readers will dive into these easy first books and build confidence as they read.

50. Waiting Is Not Easy! by Mo Willems (Ages 3-6)

*#1 Best Seller & Award Winning Book

Waiting is not Easy! Mo Willems

Piggie has a surprise for Gerald. But Gerald soon finds that waiting. Is. Not. Easy.

Find your copy here >>

Related Posts: For more books your child will love, check out the best reading books for 4 year olds & good 6 year old reading books >>

Free Best 5 Year Old Books Printable Pdf!

Print off the list of top 50 books for 5 year olds here!

How can I improve and motivate my child to read?

benefits of reading kids

Here are four quick tips for helping your child improve reading skills:

1. Set up a regular reading routine. Morning story time or book time before bed can work well.

2. Use the books above to help your child find books they’re interested in.

3. Read in other ways. Check out recipes, scan for schedules and weather reports, read emails, and explore street signs. Get creative by reading things other than books.

4. Keep Trying. Encouraging kids to read can be a challenge and take time! Use the tips in the image below to help.

how to help kids read books by age

See these great free kids coupons and free bookmarks to help. Or use these reading challenges for kids .

What’s Next?

Join our free reading challenge for more motivation to read all year!

More book posts you’ll love…

  • 10 Year Old Chapter Books Kids Love
  • 7 Year Old Best Book Series
  • 3 Year Old Read Aloud Books

Books for 5 Year Olds to Learn to Read Themselves 2024

Jessica is a contributing editor for Healthy Happy Impactful. She is dedicated to fostering a love of reading and empowering women and families. Jessica holds a Master's degree in Education and is a licensed Reading Specialist. She is a mom to 2 kids.

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COMMENTS

  1. 10 Favorite Books for 5 Year-Olds

    Printable List of Best Books for a 5-Year-Old. Grab a printable list of the books shared above. Just click the green “get your printable” button below to download. So, there are my son’s favorite books for 5 year-olds. It’s exciting to think that in the next year or so he may be reading these books on his own.

  2. The 14 Best Books for 5-Year-Olds

    The best books for 5-year-olds depend a lot on the individual kid, but they should all take into account the big changes under way in a 5-year-old ‘s life: The start of school, new friendships and an evolving relationship with parents that can make for a tumultuous and transformative year.

  3. The 50 Best Books for 5- and 6-Year-Olds

    What are the best books for 5-year-olds and 6-year-olds? We went to the experts to find out. Here, the 50 best for growing readers.

  4. 50 Best Books for 5 Year Olds To Read in 2024

    2. The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister (Ages 2-6) *International Best-seller and Modern Classic See it on Amazon A lonely rainbow fish learns the joy of giving by sharing its shimmering scales with new friends. Experience the award-winning book’s captivating story through beautiful watercolor illustrations and shiny foil scales. 3.

  5. Books for five-year-olds (766 books)

    So this list is of books you or children you know loved at around age five. As part of this ...