Top 10 Best Books for 5-Year-Olds To Educate Them

If you have a five-year-old, you already know how inquisitive and imaginative they are. At this age, children are rapidly expanding their vocabulary, developing problem-solving skills, and even beginning to recognize words and read simple sentences. Books play a crucial role in fostering their love for learning and storytelling.

But with so many books available, how do you choose the best books for 5-year-olds?

Don’t worry—I’ve done the research for you! In this guide, I’ll share some of the top book recommendations that are fun, engaging, and educational for your little reader.

Why Reading is Important for 5-Year-Olds

By the age of five, children are developing essential skills that will prepare them for kindergarten and beyond. Books help them:

• Expand Vocabulary & Language Skills – Exposure to new words improves speech and communication.
• Develop Emotional Intelligence – Stories help kids understand emotions, empathy, and social skills.
• Encourage Creativity & Imagination – Books transport kids to new worlds, sparking curiosity and creativity.
• Prepare for Reading & Writing – Many books introduce sight words and phonics concepts that support early literacy.
• Improve Focus & Attention Span – Reading helps children develop the ability to concentrate and follow a story.

Now, let’s explore the best books for 5-year-olds that will keep them engaged and learning.

1. The Gruffalo – By Julia Donaldson

A timeless favorite, The Gruffalo tells the story of a clever mouse who outsmarts his predators by inventing a fearsome creature. But what happens when the imaginary Gruffalo turns out to be real?

Why It’s Great:

• Engaging rhyming text that’s fun to read aloud
• Boosts problem-solving and storytelling skills
• Beautiful illustrations that captivate young readers

2. The Book with No Pictures – By B.J. Novak

This laugh-out-loud book proves that words alone can create a fun and interactive reading experience. The reader has to say silly, nonsensical words, making it a favorite for kids who love humor.

Why It’s Great:

• Encourages a love for words and storytelling
• Interactive, engaging, and hilarious
• Boosts vocabulary and confidence in reading

3. Press Here – By Hervé Tullet

A unique, interactive book where kids are encouraged to press, shake, and tilt the book to “make things happen.” It’s a simple yet magical experience.

Why It’s Great:

• Encourages participation and curiosity
• Develops cause-and-effect thinking
• A fun introduction to following instructions

4. We Don’t Eat Our Classmates – By Ryan T. Higgins

A funny and heartfelt story about a little dinosaur named Penelope who struggles with making friends—because she keeps trying to eat them!

Why It’s Great:

• Teaches kindness, empathy, and social skills
• Entertaining storyline with relatable lessons
• Helps ease kindergarten anxiety

5. The Day the Crayons Quit – By Drew Daywalt

In this creative and humorous story, crayons write letters to their owner, expressing their grievances about how they are used.

Why It’s Great:

• Encourages creativity and problem-solving
• Introduces emotions and different perspectives
• A fun way to explore colors and art

6. How to Catch a Unicorn – By Adam Wallace

An exciting and colorful book that takes kids on an adventure to try and catch a magical unicorn. The rhyming text makes it a fun read-aloud experience.

Why It’s Great:

• Engaging rhymes that help with language development
• Sparks imagination and creativity
• Perfect for kids who love unicorns and adventure

7. Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons – By Eric Litwin & James Dean

Pete the Cat remains cool even as he loses his groovy buttons one by one. This book teaches resilience, problem-solving, and even basic counting skills.

Why It’s Great:

• Teaches early math concepts in a fun way
• Encourages a positive, optimistic attitude
• Simple, repetitive phrases make it easy to follow

8. Ish – By Peter H. Reynolds

This inspiring book teaches kids that creativity isn’t about perfection—it’s about self-expression and trying new things.

Why It’s Great:

• Encourages creativity and self-confidence
• Helps kids embrace mistakes as part of learning
• Simple yet powerful message

9. Ada Twist, Scientist – By Andrea Beaty

An exciting STEM-focused book about a curious young girl named Ada who loves science and never stops asking questions.

Why It’s Great:

• Encourages curiosity and scientific thinking
• Promotes STEM learning in a fun way
• Features a strong female lead and diverse characters

10. The Wonderful Things You Will Be – By Emily Winfield Martin

A beautiful, uplifting book that celebrates all the wonderful possibilities in a child’s future. It’s a heartfelt read for bedtime or special occasions.

Why It’s Great:

• Encourages self-expression and confidence
• Stunning illustrations that captivate young readers
• A meaningful book for parents and children to share

How to Choose the Best Books for Your 5-Year-Old

Here are some key things to consider when selecting books for a five-year-old:

• Interactive & Engaging – Books with rhymes, humor, and participation elements keep kids interested.
• Encourages Early Reading – Look for books that introduce sight words, phonics, and simple sentences.
• Teaches Social & Emotional Skills – Books about friendships, kindness, and emotions help kids navigate real-world experiences.
• Supports Imagination & Creativity – Stories that spark creativity and curiosity make reading more enjoyable.
• Bright & Colorful Illustrations – Visually appealing books help hold a child’s attention.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best books for 5-year-olds is all about selecting stories that entertain, educate, and inspire. Whether it’s the fun rhymes of Pete the Cat, the interactive magic of Press Here, or the inspiring message of Ada Twist, Scientist, there’s a perfect book for every young reader.

At this stage, reading isn’t just about learning—it’s about creating magical moments with your child. So pick up a book, get cozy, and enjoy the adventure of storytelling together!

What’s your child’s favorite book right now? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your recommendations!