← The Children's Library  /  Starting School (4–6)

Best British Books for Starting School (4–6)

A personal project — every book hand-picked by a London dad 🇬🇧

Hand-picked British books perfect for starting school (4–6) — from much-loved classics to modern favourites, every one by a British author or illustrator.

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114 hand-picked books

How to use this shelf

Start with books whose age range overlaps starting school (4–6), then choose by attention span and reading confidence. This shelf mixes picture book, poetry, chapter book and classic so families can move from read-aloud choices to independent reading without leaving the age band.

Quick comparison

6 varied places to start. Compare the age, format, and themes, then read the notes or check current UK editions.

The Gruffalo
Julia Donaldson · Picture Book · ages 3–6 · courage and humour
The Tiger Who Came to Tea
Judith Kerr · Picture Book · ages 3–6 · wonder and imagination
We're Going on a Bear Hunt
Michael Rosen · Picture Book · ages 2–5 · adventure and courage
One Snowy Night
Nick Butterworth · Picture Book · ages 3–6 · kindness and family
Each Peach Pear Plum
Janet Ahlberg · Picture Book · ages 2–5 · imagination and heritage
Please Mrs Butler
Allan Ahlberg · Poetry · ages 6–10 · humour and family
The Gruffalo book cover
The Gruffalo
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
The Gruffalo
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
A quick-thinking mouse crosses a wood and invents a fearsome Gruffalo to discourage a fox, an owl, and a snake from eating him.
Picture Book1999
The Gruffalo's Child book cover
The Gruffalo's Child
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
The Gruffalo's Child
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
On the shelf for children aged 3 to 6: The Gruffalo's Child, a picture book by Julia Donaldson. It is illustrated by Axel Scheffler. It connects with courage and adventure.
Picture Book2004
Room on the Broom book cover
Room on the Broom
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
Room on the Broom
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
A witch repeatedly makes room on her broom for animals who recover her lost belongings.
Picture Book2001
The Snail and the Whale book cover
The Snail and the Whale
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
The Snail and the Whale
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
A small sea snail longs to travel and hitches a ride on the tail of a humpback whale.
Picture Book2003
Zog book cover
Zog
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
Zog
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
Choose Zog by Julia Donaldson for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Axel Scheffler. This picture book is shelved with books about perseverance, kindness and humour.
Picture Book2010
Tiddler book cover
Tiddler
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
Tiddler
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
For readers interested in imagination, humour and adventure, compare Tiddler by Julia Donaldson. It is illustrated by Axel Scheffler. It is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6.
Picture Book2007
A Squash and a Squeeze book cover
A Squash and a Squeeze
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–5
A Squash and a Squeeze
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
A Squash and a Squeeze by Julia Donaldson is a picture book for children aged 3 to 5. It is illustrated by Axel Scheffler. A useful choice for reading about humour, wonder and kindness.
Picture Book1993
Monkey Puzzle book cover
Monkey Puzzle
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
Monkey Puzzle
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
On the shelf for children aged 3 to 6: Monkey Puzzle, a picture book by Julia Donaldson. It is illustrated by Axel Scheffler. It connects with kindness, friendship and family.
Picture Book2000
Tabby McTat book cover
Tabby McTat
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
Tabby McTat
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
First published in 2009, Tabby McTat is a picture book by Julia Donaldson for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Axel Scheffler. Its themes include loyalty, friendship and courage.
Picture Book2009
The Highway Rat book cover
The Highway Rat
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
The Highway Rat
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
First published in 2011, The Highway Rat is a picture book by Julia Donaldson for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Axel Scheffler. Its themes include courage, humour and justice.
Picture Book2011
Stick Man book cover
Stick Man
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
Stick Man
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
Stick Man is repeatedly mistaken for an ordinary stick and carried farther from his family tree.
Picture Book2008
The Smartest Giant in Town book cover
The Smartest Giant in Town
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
The Smartest Giant in Town
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
The Smartest Giant in Town by Julia Donaldson is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Axel Scheffler. A useful choice for reading about kindness and friendship.
Picture Book2002
Charlie Cook's Favourite Book book cover
Charlie Cook's Favourite Book
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
Charlie Cook's Favourite Book
Julia Donaldson · Axel Scheffler
Charlie Cook's Favourite Book by Julia Donaldson is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Axel Scheffler. A useful choice for reading about imagination and wonder.
Picture Book2005
What the Ladybird Heard book cover
What the Ladybird Heard
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
What the Ladybird Heard
Julia Donaldson · Lydia Monks
For readers interested in courage, humour and justice, compare What the Ladybird Heard by Julia Donaldson. It is illustrated by Lydia Monks. It is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6.
Picture Book2009
Sharing a Shell book cover
Sharing a Shell
Julia Donaldson
Ages 3–6
Sharing a Shell
Julia Donaldson · Lydia Monks
First published in 2004, Sharing a Shell is a picture book by Julia Donaldson for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Lydia Monks. Its themes include friendship, kindness and nature.
Picture Book2004
The Tiger Who Came to Tea book cover
The Tiger Who Came to Tea
Judith Kerr
Ages 3–6
The Tiger Who Came to Tea
Judith Kerr
Sophie and her mother welcome an unexpected tiger into their kitchen.
Picture Book1968
Mog the Forgetful Cat book cover
Mog the Forgetful Cat
Judith Kerr
Ages 3–6
Mog the Forgetful Cat
Judith Kerr
Mog the Forgetful Cat, a picture book by Judith Kerr, is selected for children aged 3 to 6. Compare it with other books exploring kindness, family and humour.
Picture Book1970
Mog's Christmas book cover
Mog's Christmas
Judith Kerr
Ages 3–6
Mog's Christmas
Judith Kerr
Choose Mog's Christmas by Judith Kerr for children aged 3 to 6. This picture book is shelved with books about family, humour and wonder.
Picture Book1976
We're Going on a Bear Hunt book cover
We're Going on a Bear Hunt
Michael Rosen
Ages 2–5
We're Going on a Bear Hunt
Michael Rosen · Helen Oxenbury
A family travels through grass, water, mud, woodland, snow, and a cave in search of a bear.
Picture Book1989
One Snowy Night book cover
One Snowy Night
Nick Butterworth
Ages 3–6
One Snowy Night
Nick Butterworth
One Snowy Night by Nick Butterworth is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6. A useful choice for reading about kindness, family and nature.
Picture Book1989
After the Storm book cover
After the Storm
Nick Butterworth
Ages 3–6
After the Storm
Nick Butterworth
For readers interested in kindness, nature and resilience, compare After the Storm by Nick Butterworth. It is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6.
Picture Book1992
Each Peach Pear Plum book cover
Each Peach Pear Plum
Janet Ahlberg
Ages 2–5
Each Peach Pear Plum
Janet Ahlberg · Allan Ahlberg
Choose Each Peach Pear Plum by Janet Ahlberg for children aged 2 to 5. It is illustrated by Allan Ahlberg. This picture book is shelved with books about imagination, heritage and wonder.
Picture Book1978
The Jolly Postman book cover
The Jolly Postman
Janet Ahlberg
Ages 3–7
The Jolly Postman
Janet Ahlberg · Allan Ahlberg
The Jolly Postman, a picture book by Janet Ahlberg, is selected for children aged 3 to 7. It is illustrated by Allan Ahlberg. Compare it with other books exploring imagination, heritage and humour.
Picture Book1986
Please Mrs Butler book cover
Please Mrs Butler
Allan Ahlberg
Ages 6–10
Please Mrs Butler
Allan Ahlberg
Please Mrs Butler by Allan Ahlberg is a poetry collection for children aged 6 to 10. A useful choice for reading about humour, family and heritage.
Poetry1983
Burglar Bill book cover
Burglar Bill
Janet Ahlberg
Ages 3–7
Burglar Bill
Janet Ahlberg · Allan Ahlberg
For readers interested in honesty, humour and kindness, compare Burglar Bill by Janet Ahlberg. It is illustrated by Allan Ahlberg. It is a picture book for children aged 3 to 7.
Picture Book1977
Funnybones book cover
Funnybones
Janet Ahlberg
Ages 3–7
Funnybones
Janet Ahlberg · Allan Ahlberg
First published in 1980, Funnybones is a picture book by Janet Ahlberg for children aged 3 to 7. It is illustrated by Allan Ahlberg. Its themes include humour and adventure.
Picture Book1980
Dogger book cover
Dogger
Shirley Hughes
Ages 3–6
Dogger
Shirley Hughes
Dave loses Dogger, the worn toy dog he takes everywhere, and his family search without success.
Picture Book1977
Alfie Gets in First book cover
Alfie Gets in First
Shirley Hughes
Ages 3–5
Alfie Gets in First
Shirley Hughes
Alfie Gets in First by Shirley Hughes is a picture book for children aged 3 to 5. A useful choice for reading about family, humour and courage.
Picture Book1981
Gorilla book cover
Gorilla
Anthony Browne
Ages 4–8
Gorilla
Anthony Browne
Gorilla, a picture book by Anthony Browne, is selected for children aged 4 to 8. Compare it with other books exploring family, imagination and wonder.
Picture Book1983
Voices in the Park book cover
Voices in the Park
Anthony Browne
Ages 5–9
Voices in the Park
Anthony Browne
Voices in the Park by Anthony Browne is a picture book for children aged 5 to 9. A useful choice for reading about family, wonder and justice.
Picture Book1998
Willy the Wimp book cover
Willy the Wimp
Anthony Browne
Ages 4–8
Willy the Wimp
Anthony Browne
Choose Willy the Wimp by Anthony Browne for children aged 4 to 8. This picture book is shelved with books about courage, self-reliance and perseverance.
Picture Book1984
Elmer book cover
Elmer
David McKee
Ages 3–6
Elmer
David McKee
Elmer is a brightly patchworked elephant in a herd of ordinary grey elephants.
Picture Book1989
Not Now Bernard book cover
Not Now Bernard
David McKee
Ages 3–6
Not Now Bernard
David McKee
Not Now Bernard, a picture book by David McKee, is selected for children aged 3 to 6. Compare it with other books exploring family and humour.
Picture Book1980
Peace at Last book cover
Peace at Last
Jill Murphy
Ages 3–6
Peace at Last
Jill Murphy
Peace at Last by Jill Murphy is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6. A useful choice for reading about family and humour.
Picture Book1980
Five Minutes' Peace book cover
Five Minutes' Peace
Jill Murphy
Ages 3–6
Five Minutes' Peace
Jill Murphy
Five Minutes' Peace, a picture book by Jill Murphy, is selected for children aged 3 to 6. Compare it with other books exploring family and humour.
Picture Book1986
The Snowman book cover
The Snowman
Raymond Briggs
Ages 3–7
The Snowman
Raymond Briggs
On the shelf for children aged 3 to 7: The Snowman, a picture book by Raymond Briggs. It connects with wonder, friendship and imagination.
Picture Book1978
Father Christmas book cover
Father Christmas
Raymond Briggs
Ages 4–8
Father Christmas
Raymond Briggs
On the shelf for children aged 4 to 8: Father Christmas, a picture book by Raymond Briggs. It connects with humour, heritage and wonder.
Picture Book1973
Mr Gumpy's Outing book cover
Mr Gumpy's Outing
John Burningham
Ages 2–5
Mr Gumpy's Outing
John Burningham
Choose Mr Gumpy's Outing by John Burningham for children aged 2 to 5. This picture book is shelved with books about kindness, friendship and humour.
Picture Book1970
Mister Magnolia book cover
Mister Magnolia
Quentin Blake
Ages 3–6
Mister Magnolia
Quentin Blake
For readers interested in humour, imagination and wonder, compare Mister Magnolia by Quentin Blake. It is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6.
Picture Book1980
Owl Babies book cover
Owl Babies
Martin Waddell
Ages 2–4
Owl Babies
Martin Waddell · Patrick Benson
Three young owls wake to find that their mother has left the nest.
Picture Book1992
Can't You Sleep, Little Bear? book cover
Can't You Sleep, Little Bear?
Martin Waddell
Ages 2–5
Can't You Sleep, Little Bear?
Martin Waddell · Barbara Firth
Can't You Sleep, Little Bear?, a picture book by Martin Waddell, is selected for children aged 2 to 5. It is illustrated by Barbara Firth. Compare it with other books exploring family, kindness and courage.
Picture Book1988
Fantastic Mr Fox book cover
Fantastic Mr Fox
Roald Dahl
Ages 6–9
Fantastic Mr Fox
Roald Dahl · Quentin Blake
First published in 1970, Fantastic Mr Fox is a chapter book by Roald Dahl for children aged 6 to 9. It is illustrated by Quentin Blake. Its themes include courage, humour, perseverance and family.
Chapter Book1970
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory book cover
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Roald Dahl
Ages 6–10
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Roald Dahl · Quentin Blake
Charlie Bucket finds one of five golden tickets and enters Willy Wonka’s extraordinary chocolate factory.
Chapter Book1964
James and the Giant Peach book cover
James and the Giant Peach
Roald Dahl
Ages 6–10
James and the Giant Peach
Roald Dahl · Quentin Blake
Choose James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl for children aged 6 to 10. It is illustrated by Quentin Blake. This chapter book is shelved with books about adventure, friendship, courage and imagination.
Chapter Book1961
George's Marvellous Medicine book cover
George's Marvellous Medicine
Roald Dahl
Ages 6–9
George's Marvellous Medicine
Roald Dahl · Quentin Blake
On the shelf for children aged 6 to 9: George's Marvellous Medicine, a chapter book by Roald Dahl. It is illustrated by Quentin Blake. It connects with humour, imagination and courage.
Chapter Book1981
The Enormous Crocodile book cover
The Enormous Crocodile
Roald Dahl
Ages 4–7
The Enormous Crocodile
Roald Dahl · Quentin Blake
On the shelf for children aged 4 to 7: The Enormous Crocodile, a picture book by Roald Dahl. It is illustrated by Quentin Blake. It connects with courage, justice and humour.
Picture Book1978
The Magic Finger book cover
The Magic Finger
Roald Dahl
Ages 6–9
The Magic Finger
Roald Dahl · Quentin Blake
First published in 1966, The Magic Finger is a chapter book by Roald Dahl for children aged 6 to 9. It is illustrated by Quentin Blake. Its themes include justice, courage and nature.
Chapter Book1966
The Twits book cover
The Twits
Roald Dahl
Ages 6–9
The Twits
Roald Dahl · Quentin Blake
Choose The Twits by Roald Dahl for children aged 6 to 9. It is illustrated by Quentin Blake. This chapter book is shelved with books about humour and justice.
Chapter Book1980
Esio Trot book cover
Esio Trot
Roald Dahl
Ages 6–9
Esio Trot
Roald Dahl · Quentin Blake
On the shelf for children aged 6 to 9: Esio Trot, a chapter book by Roald Dahl. It is illustrated by Quentin Blake. It connects with kindness and humour.
Chapter Book1990
Winnie-the-Pooh book cover
Winnie-the-Pooh
A. A. Milne
Ages 3–8
Winnie-the-Pooh
A. A. Milne · E. H. Shepard
Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends move through linked adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood, from honey-seeking plans to expeditions and rescues.
Classic1926
The House at Pooh Corner book cover
The House at Pooh Corner
A. A. Milne
Ages 3–8
The House at Pooh Corner
A. A. Milne · E. H. Shepard
The House at Pooh Corner, a classic by A. A. Milne, is selected for children aged 3 to 8. It is illustrated by E. H. Shepard. Compare it with other books exploring friendship, kindness, imagination and humour.
Classic1928
When We Were Very Young book cover
When We Were Very Young
A. A. Milne
Ages 3–8
When We Were Very Young
A. A. Milne · E. H. Shepard
When We Were Very Young, a poetry collection by A. A. Milne, is selected for children aged 3 to 8. It is illustrated by E. H. Shepard. Compare it with other books exploring humour, imagination, wonder and family.
Poetry1924
Now We Are Six book cover
Now We Are Six
A. A. Milne
Ages 3–8
Now We Are Six
A. A. Milne · E. H. Shepard
Choose Now We Are Six by A. A. Milne for children aged 3 to 8. It is illustrated by E. H. Shepard. This poetry collection is shelved with books about humour, imagination, wonder and family.
Poetry1927
Just So Stories book cover
Just So Stories
Rudyard Kipling
Ages 6–10
Just So Stories
Rudyard Kipling
On the shelf for children aged 6 to 10: Just So Stories, a classic by Rudyard Kipling. It connects with imagination, humour, wonder and nature.
Classic1902
The Tale of Peter Rabbit book cover
The Tale of Peter Rabbit
Beatrix Potter
Ages 2–6
The Tale of Peter Rabbit
Beatrix Potter
Peter ignores his mother’s warning and enters Mr McGregor’s garden to eat vegetables.
Picture Book1902
The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin book cover
The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin
Beatrix Potter
Ages 2–6
The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin
Beatrix Potter
The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin by Beatrix Potter is a picture book for children aged 2 to 6. A useful choice for reading about nature, humour and adventure.
Picture Book1903
The Sheep-Pig book cover
The Sheep-Pig
Dick King-Smith
Ages 6–10
The Sheep-Pig
Dick King-Smith
For readers interested in kindness, perseverance and courage, compare The Sheep-Pig by Dick King-Smith. It is a chapter book for children aged 6 to 10.
Chapter Book1983
The Hodgeheg book cover
The Hodgeheg
Dick King-Smith
Ages 5–8
The Hodgeheg
Dick King-Smith
The Hodgeheg, a chapter book by Dick King-Smith, is selected for children aged 5 to 8. Compare it with other books exploring courage, family and perseverance.
Chapter Book1987
The Diary of a Killer Cat book cover
The Diary of a Killer Cat
Anne Fine
Ages 6–9
The Diary of a Killer Cat
Anne Fine
The Diary of a Killer Cat by Anne Fine is a chapter book for children aged 6 to 9. A useful choice for reading about humour and family.
Chapter Book1994
Clarice Bean, That's Me book cover
Clarice Bean, That's Me
Lauren Child
Ages 5–8
Clarice Bean, That's Me
Lauren Child
For readers interested in family, humour and imagination, compare Clarice Bean, That's Me by Lauren Child. It is a picture book for children aged 5 to 8.
Picture Book1999
I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato book cover
I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato
Lauren Child
Ages 3–6
I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato
Lauren Child
First published in 2000, I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato is a picture book by Lauren Child for children aged 3 to 6. Its themes include humour, family and imagination.
Picture Book2000
A Bear Called Paddington book cover
A Bear Called Paddington
Michael Bond
Ages 5–8
A Bear Called Paddington
Michael Bond · Peggy Fortnum
The Brown family meet a polite bear from Peru at Paddington Station and invite him into their home.
Chapter Book1958
The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark book cover
The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark
Jill Tomlinson
Ages 5–8
The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark
Jill Tomlinson
For readers interested in courage and family, compare The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark by Jill Tomlinson. It is a chapter book for children aged 5 to 8.
Chapter Book1968
Winnie the Witch book cover
Winnie the Witch
Valerie Thomas
Ages 3–6
Winnie the Witch
Valerie Thomas · Korky Paul
First published in 1987, Winnie the Witch is a picture book by Valerie Thomas for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Korky Paul. Its themes include humour and imagination.
Picture Book1987
Meg and Mog book cover
Meg and Mog
Helen Nicoll
Ages 2–5
Meg and Mog
Helen Nicoll · Jan Pienkowski
First published in 1972, Meg and Mog is a picture book by Helen Nicoll for children aged 2 to 5. It is illustrated by Jan Pienkowski. Its themes include humour and imagination.
Picture Book1972
Rosie's Walk book cover
Rosie's Walk
Pat Hutchins
Ages 2–5
Rosie's Walk
Pat Hutchins
First published in 1968, Rosie's Walk is a picture book by Pat Hutchins for children aged 2 to 5. Its themes include humour and adventure.
Picture Book1968
The Elephant and the Bad Baby book cover
The Elephant and the Bad Baby
Elfrida Vipont
Ages 2–5
The Elephant and the Bad Baby
Elfrida Vipont · Raymond Briggs
The Elephant and the Bad Baby, a picture book by Elfrida Vipont, is selected for children aged 2 to 5. It is illustrated by Raymond Briggs. Compare it with other books exploring humour and kindness.
Picture Book1969
Avocado Baby book cover
Avocado Baby
John Burningham
Ages 2–5
Avocado Baby
John Burningham
Choose Avocado Baby by John Burningham for children aged 2 to 5. This picture book is shelved with books about humour and family.
Picture Book1982
Granpa book cover
Granpa
John Burningham
Ages 3–6
Granpa
John Burningham
Granpa by John Burningham is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6. A useful choice for reading about family and wonder.
Picture Book1984
Six Dinner Sid book cover
Six Dinner Sid
Inga Moore
Ages 3–6
Six Dinner Sid
Inga Moore
Six Dinner Sid by Inga Moore is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6. A useful choice for reading about humour and self-reliance.
Picture Book1990
Farmer Duck book cover
Farmer Duck
Martin Waddell
Ages 3–6
Farmer Duck
Martin Waddell · Helen Oxenbury
On the shelf for children aged 3 to 6: Farmer Duck, a picture book by Martin Waddell. It is illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. It connects with justice, friendship and kindness.
Picture Book1991
Kipper book cover
Kipper
Mick Inkpen
Ages 2–5
Kipper
Mick Inkpen
Kipper, a picture book by Mick Inkpen, is selected for children aged 2 to 5. Compare it with other books exploring friendship and wonder.
Picture Book1991
The Blue Balloon book cover
The Blue Balloon
Mick Inkpen
Ages 3–6
The Blue Balloon
Mick Inkpen
For readers interested in imagination and wonder, compare The Blue Balloon by Mick Inkpen. It is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6.
Picture Book1989
Oi Frog! book cover
Oi Frog!
Kes Gray
Ages 3–6
Oi Frog!
Kes Gray · Jim Field
Oi Frog! by Kes Gray is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Jim Field. A useful choice for reading about humour.
Picture Book2014
Supertato book cover
Supertato
Sue Hendra
Ages 3–6
Supertato
Sue Hendra · Paul Linnet
First published in 2014, Supertato is a picture book by Sue Hendra for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Paul Linnet. Its themes include humour and courage.
Picture Book2014
Aliens Love Underpants book cover
Aliens Love Underpants
Claire Freedman
Ages 3–6
Aliens Love Underpants
Claire Freedman · Ben Cort
On the shelf for children aged 3 to 6: Aliens Love Underpants, a picture book by Claire Freedman. It is illustrated by Ben Cort. It connects with humour.
Picture Book2007
Giraffes Can't Dance book cover
Giraffes Can't Dance
Giles Andreae
Ages 3–6
Giraffes Can't Dance
Giles Andreae · Guy Parker-Rees
Choose Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees. This picture book is shelved with books about perseverance, self-reliance and kindness.
Picture Book1999
The Lion Inside book cover
The Lion Inside
Rachel Bright
Ages 3–6
The Lion Inside
Rachel Bright · Jim Field
The Lion Inside, a picture book by Rachel Bright, is selected for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Jim Field. Compare it with other books exploring courage and self-reliance.
Picture Book2015
The Koala Who Could book cover
The Koala Who Could
Rachel Bright
Ages 3–6
The Koala Who Could
Rachel Bright · Jim Field
The Koala Who Could by Rachel Bright is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6. It is illustrated by Jim Field. A useful choice for reading about courage and resilience.
Picture Book2016
The Storm Whale book cover
The Storm Whale
Benji Davies
Ages 3–6
The Storm Whale
Benji Davies
The Storm Whale by Benji Davies is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6. A useful choice for reading about kindness, family and nature.
Picture Book2013
Grandad's Island book cover
Grandad's Island
Benji Davies
Ages 4–7
Grandad's Island
Benji Davies
Grandad's Island, a picture book by Benji Davies, is selected for children aged 4 to 7. Compare it with other books exploring family and wonder.
Picture Book2015
Lost and Found book cover
Lost and Found
Oliver Jeffers
Ages 3–6
Lost and Found
Oliver Jeffers
Choose Lost and Found by Oliver Jeffers for children aged 3 to 6. This picture book is shelved with books about friendship and kindness.
Picture Book2005
How to Catch a Star book cover
How to Catch a Star
Oliver Jeffers
Ages 3–6
How to Catch a Star
Oliver Jeffers
How to Catch a Star by Oliver Jeffers is a picture book for children aged 3 to 6. A useful choice for reading about perseverance, wonder and imagination.
Picture Book2004
Stuck book cover
Stuck
Oliver Jeffers
Ages 3–6
Stuck
Oliver Jeffers
First published in 2011, Stuck is a picture book by Oliver Jeffers for children aged 3 to 6. Its themes include humour and imagination.
Picture Book2011
Odd Dog Out book cover
Odd Dog Out
Rob Biddulph
Ages 3–6
Odd Dog Out
Rob Biddulph
On the shelf for children aged 3 to 6: Odd Dog Out, a picture book by Rob Biddulph. It connects with self-reliance and courage.
Picture Book2016
Blown Away book cover
Blown Away
Rob Biddulph
Ages 3–6
Blown Away
Rob Biddulph
Choose Blown Away by Rob Biddulph for children aged 3 to 6. This picture book is shelved with books about adventure and friendship.
Picture Book2014
The Pirates Next Door book cover
The Pirates Next Door
Jonny Duddle
Ages 4–7
The Pirates Next Door
Jonny Duddle
The Pirates Next Door, a picture book by Jonny Duddle, is selected for children aged 4 to 7. Compare it with other books exploring friendship, adventure and humour.
Picture Book2012
You Choose book cover
You Choose
Pippa Goodhart
Ages 2–6
You Choose
Pippa Goodhart · Nick Sharratt
On the shelf for children aged 2 to 6: You Choose, a picture book by Pippa Goodhart. It is illustrated by Nick Sharratt. It connects with imagination and creativity.
Picture Book2003
There's a Monster in Your Book book cover
There's a Monster in Your Book
Tom Fletcher
Ages 2–5
There's a Monster in Your Book
Tom Fletcher · Greg Abbott
Choose There's a Monster in Your Book by Tom Fletcher for children aged 2 to 5. It is illustrated by Greg Abbott. This picture book is shelved with books about humour and wonder.
Picture Book2017
The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck book cover
The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck
Beatrix Potter
Ages 2–6
The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck
Beatrix Potter
First published in 1908, The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck is a picture book by Beatrix Potter for children aged 2 to 6. Its themes include nature and adventure.
Picture Book1908
Spring Story book cover
Spring Story
Jill Barklem
Ages 3–7
Spring Story
Jill Barklem
For readers interested in family, nature and heritage, compare Spring Story by Jill Barklem. It is a picture book for children aged 3 to 7.
Picture Book1980
The Magic Faraway Tree book cover
The Magic Faraway Tree
Enid Blyton
Ages 6–9
The Magic Faraway Tree
Enid Blyton
The Magic Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton is a chapter book for children aged 6 to 9. A useful choice for reading about imagination, adventure and wonder.
Chapter Book1943
The Enchanted Wood book cover
The Enchanted Wood
Enid Blyton
Ages 6–9
The Enchanted Wood
Enid Blyton
On the shelf for children aged 6 to 9: The Enchanted Wood, a chapter book by Enid Blyton. It connects with imagination and adventure.
Chapter Book1939
The Secret Seven book cover
The Secret Seven
Enid Blyton
Ages 6–9
The Secret Seven
Enid Blyton
The Secret Seven, a chapter book by Enid Blyton, is selected for children aged 6 to 9. Compare it with other books exploring adventure and friendship.
Chapter Book1949
The Wombles book cover
The Wombles
Elisabeth Beresford
Ages 6–9
The Wombles
Elisabeth Beresford
For readers interested in nature, family and humour, compare The Wombles by Elisabeth Beresford. It is a chapter book for children aged 6 to 9.
Chapter Book1968
Thomas the Tank Engine book cover
Thomas the Tank Engine
Rev. W. Awdry
Ages 2–6
Thomas the Tank Engine
Rev. W. Awdry
Thomas the Tank Engine, a picture book by Rev. W. Awdry, is selected for children aged 2 to 6. Compare it with other books exploring friendship and perseverance.
Picture Book1946
Horrid Henry book cover
Horrid Henry
Francesca Simon
Ages 6–9
Horrid Henry
Francesca Simon · Tony Ross
First published in 1994, Horrid Henry is a chapter book by Francesca Simon for children aged 6 to 9. It is illustrated by Tony Ross. Its themes include humour and family.
Chapter Book1994
Revolting Rhymes book cover
Revolting Rhymes
Roald Dahl
Ages 6–10
Revolting Rhymes
Roald Dahl · Quentin Blake
For readers interested in humour, compare Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl. It is illustrated by Quentin Blake. It is a poetry collection for children aged 6 to 10.
Poetry1982
Quick, Let's Get Out of Here book cover
Quick, Let's Get Out of Here
Michael Rosen
Ages 6–10
Quick, Let's Get Out of Here
Michael Rosen · Quentin Blake
Quick, Let's Get Out of Here by Michael Rosen is a poetry collection for children aged 6 to 10. It is illustrated by Quentin Blake. A useful choice for reading about humour and family.
Poetry1983
A Necklace of Raindrops
Joan Aiken
Ages 6–9
A Necklace of Raindrops
Joan Aiken · Jan Pienkowski
A Necklace of Raindrops, a chapter book by Joan Aiken, is selected for children aged 6 to 9. It is illustrated by Jan Pienkowski. Compare it with other books exploring imagination and wonder.
Chapter Book1968
Guess How Much I Love You book cover
Guess How Much I Love You
Sam McBratney
Ages 2–5
Guess How Much I Love You
Sam McBratney · Anita Jeram
First published in 1994, Guess How Much I Love You is a picture book by Sam McBratney for children aged 2 to 5. It is illustrated by Anita Jeram. Its themes include family and kindness.
Picture Book1994
Mr. Tickle book cover
Mr. Tickle
Roger Hargreaves
Ages 2–5
Mr. Tickle
Roger Hargreaves
Mr. Tickle, a picture book by Roger Hargreaves, is selected for children aged 2 to 5. Compare it with other books exploring humour and imagination.
Picture Book1971
Harry and the Bucketful of Dinosaurs book cover
Harry and the Bucketful of Dinosaurs
Ian Whybrow
Ages 2–5
Harry and the Bucketful of Dinosaurs
Ian Whybrow · Adrian Reynolds
Harry and the Bucketful of Dinosaurs, a picture book by Ian Whybrow, is selected for children aged 2 to 5. It is illustrated by Adrian Reynolds. Compare it with other books exploring imagination and family.
Picture Book1999
Hugless Douglas book cover
Hugless Douglas
David Melling
Ages 2–5
Hugless Douglas
David Melling
On the shelf for children aged 2 to 5: Hugless Douglas, a picture book by David Melling. It connects with kindness and family.
Picture Book2010
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse book cover
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Charlie Mackesy
Ages 4–16
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Charlie Mackesy
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy is a picture book for readers aged 4+. A useful choice for reading about kindness, friendship and courage.
Picture Book2019
Claude in the City book cover
Claude in the City
Alex T. Smith
Ages 5–8
Claude in the City
Alex T. Smith
Claude in the City, a chapter book by Alex T. Smith, is selected for children aged 5 to 8. Compare it with other books exploring humour and adventure.
Chapter Book2011
Mr Majeika book cover
Mr Majeika
Humphrey Carpenter
Ages 6–9
Mr Majeika
Humphrey Carpenter
Choose Mr Majeika by Humphrey Carpenter for children aged 6 to 9. This chapter book is shelved with books about humour and wonder.
Chapter Book1984
Astrosaurs: Riddle of the Raptors book cover
Astrosaurs: Riddle of the Raptors
Steve Cole
Ages 6–9
Astrosaurs: Riddle of the Raptors
Steve Cole
First published in 2005, Astrosaurs: Riddle of the Raptors is a chapter book by Steve Cole for children aged 6 to 9. Its themes include adventure and humour.
Chapter Book2005
Isadora Moon Goes to School book cover
Isadora Moon Goes to School
Harriet Muncaster
Ages 5–8
Isadora Moon Goes to School
Harriet Muncaster
On the shelf for children aged 5 to 8: Isadora Moon Goes to School, a chapter book by Harriet Muncaster. It connects with self-reliance and imagination.
Chapter Book2016
Gobbolino the Witch's Cat book cover
Gobbolino the Witch's Cat
Ursula Moray Williams
Ages 6–9
Gobbolino the Witch's Cat
Ursula Moray Williams
Gobbolino the Witch's Cat by Ursula Moray Williams is a classic for children aged 6 to 9. A useful choice for reading about kindness and perseverance.
Classic1942
Figgie Hobbin book cover
Figgie Hobbin
Charles Causley
Ages 6–10
Figgie Hobbin
Charles Causley
Figgie Hobbin by Charles Causley is a poetry collection for children aged 6 to 10. A useful choice for reading about wonder and heritage.
Poetry1970
Silly Verse for Kids book cover
Silly Verse for Kids
Spike Milligan
Ages 5–9
Silly Verse for Kids
Spike Milligan
Choose Silly Verse for Kids by Spike Milligan for children aged 5 to 9. This poetry collection is shelved with books about humour.
Poetry1959
Peacock Pie book cover
Peacock Pie
Walter de la Mare
Ages 6–10
Peacock Pie
Walter de la Mare
First published in 1913, Peacock Pie is a poetry collection by Walter de la Mare for children aged 6 to 10. Its themes include wonder and imagination.
Poetry1913
The Owl and the Pussycat book cover
The Owl and the Pussycat
Edward Lear
Ages 3–7
The Owl and the Pussycat
Edward Lear
On the shelf for children aged 3 to 7: The Owl and the Pussycat, a poetry collection by Edward Lear. It connects with humour, wonder and adventure.
Poetry1871