Best Books for 6-Year-Olds

These are handy tools for encouraging reading skills. There are several sets to choose from, but we’ve chosen the “Advancing Beginners” set. These 12 books are an excellent place to start with your 6-year-old.

“Set 2” repeats some of the things introduced in “Set 1” but with slightly longer stories, and it introduces “word families.” If you’ve already started using the “Bob” books, this is the next best step.

Dr. Seuss is a national treasure, and you’ll see his titles more than once on this list. I adore Seuss’ witty storylines and fun illustrations that keep the reader interested.

This title is excellent for emerging readers because of its rhyming scheme. It’s also a stress-free read because there aren’t too many words per page. The colorful characters are sure to bring a smile to your child’s face and make learning a fun and exciting experience.

Narwhal and Jelly are total opposites, and yet, they’re best buds. The two friends embark on an ocean adventure, whisking the reader along with them. It’s written and illustrated in a graphic novel format, with comic strips which cater to young children.

Introducing your child to different book formats early will help them develop a taste for all types of writing and literature later on. I absolutely adore this title for its unique spin and intriguing illustrations. It’s sure to put a smile on your child’s face!

This is a great book to introduce to your child transitioning from kindergarten to first grade. As a parent, I appreciate the message it conveys: you can do whatever you set your mind to. It teaches children that the end goal will be worth it, despite the obstacles that get in the way.

Keep in mind that this title may be better for reading together. While each page only hosts one or two sentences, there are several challenging words. Despite that, kids will love the illustrations and straightforward story!

This book is a perfect choice for parents struggling with selective eaters. Meanwhile, kids will enjoy it beacuse it’s super silly. When green beans kidnap Martha’s parents, she thinks of no other option to save her parents than gobbling up all the veggies!

I think parents will enjoy the humorous plot and its underlying encouragement to eat your greens — not an easy feat for many kids. Mine included!

Penelope Rex has difficulty making friends at school because she’s a meat-eating dinosaur. However, she soon realizes that to make friends, she must resist the urge to eat her classmates!

This is an exceptionally hilarious book for introducing the concept of personal boundaries and is nice for reading out loud together. With sweet, simple illustrations, I love the fun way an important message is conveyed.

Elephant and Piggie are popular book characters that your child might already love. The great thing about these books is that there are only a few words per page as it follows a dialogue between the two characters.

This collection includes all 25 Elephant & Piggie books and is great for emerging readers. With funny stories and friendly interactions between the characters, this set is a fantatsic addition to your child’s collection.

Unicorns are all the rage with kids lately, and this story puts a pleasant twist on the mythical creature. In this case, unicorns are considered real and little girls are considered mythical.

This superb book reminds children to cherish their beliefs and the power of friendship. The storyline will surely keep your kid intrigued. It’s high on my list because it includes challenge words without overwhelming the reader.

Ada Marie is quite the scientist, but it’s difficult for her family to keep up with her curious mind. This story follows Ada as she hypothesizes where a pungent stench is coming from.

The author uses rhythm and rhyme to hook the reader. I love this book for its encouragement of scientific and logical thinking. It drives home the importance of asking why and never leaving curiosity behind.

Frog wakes up his good friend, Toad, when spring begins and hibernation ends, but Toad is too exhausted to even move! Feeling lonely, Frog tricks Toad into waking up and enjoying the sunny days with him.

The book continues with three more stories about Frog and Toad’s deep and adorable friendship. Kids will love the short and entertaining stories about these two silly amphibians.

From the same creators of “Ada Twist, Scientist”, Iggy Peck motivates readers to dream big. It’s a story that encourages readers to pursue their passions and reach for the stars, just like Iggy, who has been fascinated with building and designing things since he was a tiny tot.

The story’s use of rhyme and unique illustrations are sure to keep your reader’s attention. The text is also laid out differently than most books, making it an interesting read. Remember that this book has some tricky words, so it’s best to read it together.

Young children are naturally curious beings, which is what I love most about their little minds. I think parents will love adding this kid-friendly reference book to their shelves.

While a 6-year-old may not be able to read it word for word yet, they’ll enjoy the pictures and fun facts that cover human anatomy, how planes work, and much more. It’s a fantastic way to spark open-ended conversations about different topics together.

This unique book features beautiful constellations named after animals, plus a poetic backstory on each one. It’s a wonderful non-fiction read for your curious child.

It introduces children to astronomy in an age-appropriate manner and features stunning illustrations to catch the reader’s eye. Why not take your child out one evening and see if you can spot the constellations in the sky above you?

Any perfectionist will be able to relate to Beatrice Bottomwell. She never makes any mistakes, except for one big one… in front of everyone. But despite her fear, she learns that making mistakes can be beautiful.

I appreciate this story’s positive message about embracing mistakes and letting go of perfectionism. The simple, easy-to-read sentences are ideal for a 6-year-old at the beginning stages of their literacy journey.

Reading doesn’t need to be serious business all the time. If your child loves telling jokes and making people laugh, I think they’ll appreciate this title. Even silly books can foster your child’s reading progress.

Aimed at 6-year-olds, this joke book is exceptional because it introduces a writing style different from a typical storybook or easy reader. Pepare for hilarious jokes such as, “What kind of key opens a banana?”

A monkey!

Reading Junie B. Jones is a rite of passage. This set includes the first four books in the series, which are great for kids who want a reading challenge.

Junie B. Jones is a girl who gets into crazy antics and hilariously narrates her life. This series is fantastic for 6-year-olds because of its humorous content and character relatability.

This phonics reader introduces your child to the idea of double letters while still maintaining an easy reading experience. It’s an intriguing story that will keep your reader on their toes, encouraging critical thinking. The entire book is a big riddle, and the silly illustrations will entertain your child as they go along.

Bernard the Bird is different from his bird friends. Unlike them, he has big long arms instead of wings and can’t fly. Over time, he tries to figure out how to fly, but he simply can’t.

When he hears other creatures crying, he is able to use his long arms to wrap other animals into an embrace. Not only does he comfort bears, rabbits, and crocodiles, but he realizes that despite being different, he has his own unique purpose.

I love this inspiring tale that will inspire six-year-olds to be kind, embrace their differnces, and look for the positive in any situation.

In this silly book, children will learn that while some things are big and some things are small, it’s all relative. It’s a great way to teach your child about the “middle ground”. Using fun illustrations and easy words (encourage your child to read it to you), this is a fantastic addition to your bookshelf and reading routine.

The first thing I loved about this book was, of course, the mesmerizing illustrations that capture a variety of textures and warm colors. The next thing I adore about it is the wordless story that follows a boy as he draws various safari animals.

While there is no text on the page, this is still a rich narrative with highs, lows, thrills, and drama. It’s an amazing book anyone can enjoy, regardless of age or reading level!

Little Henry has a hard time at school and understanding his classmates. Eventually, he meets Katie who he likes spending time with, and they become good friends. This book is great if your child is on the autism spectrum or if you’d like to teach your child more about neurodivergent friends.

With sweet illustrations and a happy ending, this fantsatic resource encourages sensitivity, thoughtfulness, and empathy.

The Magic Tree House series is a must-have for elementary school children! Each story time travels to a different location where Jack and Annie go on exciting adventures.

They are chapter books, but they’re suitable for ages five and up, especially if you are reading it to your child rather than expecting them to read it. In Dinosaurs Before Dark, Jack and Annie discover the magical treehouse for the first time before it takes them into the prehistoric era.

Can they figure out how to get home before it’s too late? If your child loves this book, there are 38 books in the popular series!

In this famous Dr. Seuss book, a talking cat appears, surprising Dick and Sally! This naughty cat is full of mischief and ends up destroying the lovely home. This humorous tale not only entertains six-year-olds but also allows them to improve their reading skills.

This was one of my favorite series growing up! Amelia Bedelia is a hilarious housemaid who takes her instructions too literally. Kids will laugh, but I guarantee parents will, too.

As a level two reading book, this is a great resource for six-year-olds who are confident in their skills but still need some help. And if your child likes this story, there are plenty more books in the series starring Amelia Bedelia.

I love this heartwarming tale about a little boy who loves a tree. Even as the boy grows up and the tree gives everything it has, it never hesitates to help.

Eventually, it gives so much to the boy that there is nothing left of the tree but a stump. But when the boy returns at the end, an old man, the stump is all he needs to find a place to rest.

This is a beautiful story about love, giving, and what it means to be cared for. I appreciate that this book will give your child lots of things to think about.

In this cute story, a little boy wonders what snowmen do at night. After all, in the morning, they don’t look anything like they did the day before! The little boy imagines them having snowball fights and competing in races.

This adorable tale is perfect for reading during the winter when your six-year-old is busy questioning the magical wonderland around them.

I love this story for two reasons: first, it’s a great beginner’s chapter book; second, it’s part of a series. When your child finds a series they love, they’ll be more likely to stick with reading since they love the characters, format, and storyline.

In this book, Nate’s friend Annie has lost a picture and needs his help finding it. With his trusty detective suit, notebook, and pencil, he sets out on a thrilling quest for clues.

I recommend this book for toddlers and children up to six. By this age, your child will be able to read along with you, saying some of the crazy and silly words out loud. The funny words include BLUURF and BLORK, and though they don’t make sense, it’s a good chance to practice pronunciation while having a right old giggle!

In this story about how mistakes can be beautiful, the author uses art mishaps to show how you can turn any disaster into something positive. This story demonstrates that so well, showing us how even a drip of paint can be transformed into a fun picture of pigs driving a car or how a ripped piece of paper can turn into a smiley crocodile.

While this is true for creating literal art, it’s also a metaphor for life. It’s worth exploring your mistakes to see what you can learn from them, which is an inspiring message for children, as well as parents!

I’ve read this book to my son since before he was one, but at six, your child will definitely be able to understand the deadpan humor and cheeky plot twist. This hilarious book follows Bear, who has lost his hat. When he discovers what has happened to it, he’s feeling slightly… vengeful.

There’s no deep life lesson between the pages, but sometimes, that’s exactly what you need to calm your six-year-old down after stressful and long days. And this book is sure to get them laughing!

Mac and Jon are back together with another hilarious book. In this story, Sam and Dave dig a hole as they hunt for treasure. My favorite part of this book are the comical illustrations that are sure to have you and your child laughing out loud.

Sure, the ending may be a bit lackluster, but the journey to get there is so much fun that it hardly matters. I recommend giving this one a go if you need something to brighten your day!

The monster WILL CHOMP YOU! Well, he’ll at least try. In this hilarious read-aloud story, a monster threatens readers to close the book and stop reading, all for the love (and greed) of cake.

The thrilling threats will, of course, only entice a child to keep reading, which is not only hilarious but great for showcasing the joy of reading with your little one. So go on, find out what happens next!

If you have a little one who is out of control sometimes, this book can help teach them the importance of obedience while reminding them of your unconditional love.

David is always doing naughty and silly things, like drawing on the walls or running through the house covered with mud. All he hears from his mother is an exasperated, “No, David!” But the book also shows how parents can respond empathetically while still setting boundaries.

This book is an absolute masterpiece. Entirely wordless, the author manages to convey a deep and emotional story about a little girl who wants to play. Lonely and ignored by her family, she makes her own fun with one simple red crayon.

I love that the book uses no words, encouraging children to form their own interpretations and ideas about the story. Why does her family ignore her? What adventure does she love most? This is a must-have for any family bookshelf.

Lemony Snicket is one of my favorite children’s authors, and this was my first time reading The Dark. Just as expected, I loved it. It has Snicket’s trademark delightful writing, eerieness, and great characterization.

It’s about a little boy who is afraid of the dark. One night, the dark comes to visit him — it has something to show him in the basement. Will Laszlo go downstairs and follow the dark? Find out in this spooky but insightful tale.

It’s important to keep silly books in your six-year-old’s collection to keep them interested in the joy of reading. In this fun book, a book ates the dog! He literally disappears into the crack of the book. I think your child will love this unusual format, interactive story, and cartoon-like illustrations.

Meet Smart Cookie. Life is good, but it hasn’t always been this way. In this adorable picture book, readers will find out the cookie’s inspiring backstory. Filled with baking puns and excellent illustrations, I love this story’s message: every child has a unique talent. It just takes time to discover it.

Here’s another wordless recommendation. I simply adore this stunning book about a little girl who walks home with her father, stopping along the way to pick beautiful flowers. Most of the book is black and white, but there are little glimmers of color, especially when we see the world through the little girl’s eyes.

This peaceful story will teach your child to see the beauty in the mundane, whether flowers, the birds in the sky, or reuniting with parents at the end of the day.

Illustrations don’t get more stunning than this! In this masterpiece, a little boy named Ping plants beautiful flowers, fruit trees, and bushes. When the Emporer announces that he will choose his successor based on who can grow the best seed in one year, Ping is determined to win.

But poor Ping, who has such a green thumb, is unable to grow anything. He has to show his empty pot to the Emporer. Find out what happens to Ping in this inspiring tale about perseverence and honesty.

In this story, a child experiments with taking a different path. The road guides her along the path, encouraging her to make her own choices and enjoy the journey it takes to reach her destination.

This book is absolutely wonderful for six-year-olds embarking on their schooling and friendship journies. But I also love this one for parents, as it conveys the valuable life lesson of going with the flow and not worrying too much!

Here’s one for the girls! As a mom, I wish I’d had this kind of book as a child, but it’s never too late to share positive affirmations with your daughter. This book reminds girls that they can be curious, creative, and original, amongst other important values. Check out this book to empower your daughter!

If your child is curious about what certain people do for work, this book can help them learn to use clues to figure that out. You’ll find various uniforms on the clothesline, such as a shirt, cap, and bag of letters. On the next page, you’ll discover the answer: mail carrier.

Your child can learn the value of context clues which will help them in real life and while they read other stories, especially chapter books.

Teach your child where food comes from in this detailed and exciting book. When your child opens up their lunchbox, they’ll know more about where bread, cheese, and other foods came from.

On each spread, retro illustrations and fun, easy-to-read facts explain the process of making and growing all kinds of ingredients. Soon, your child will have a new appreciation for what they eat for lunch!

If your child is a fan of folklore and fairy tales, they might enjoy this hilarious collection of stories. The main story is about a stinky piece of cheese who escapes the oven, running from an old couple so they won’t eat him.

You’ll also meet more reimagined characters with a bizarre twist, such as a princess with a bowling ball and Cinderummpelstiltskin. This distinctive collection of retold fairy tales is certain to amuse most children!

Meet Alexander, whose day goes from bad to worse. One after the other, bad things happen to Alexander, such as getting gum in his hair and being demoted to third best friend. If your little one has ever felt down in the dumps like our main character, they might enjoy feeling validated by this book.

Accompanied by incredible black-and-white fine-line illustrations, this is a fantastic addition to any bookshelf. Whether your child is feeling happy or a little low, this is a great one to pick up any day!

Flat Stanley was a staple in my childhood bookshelf. The main character is a young boy who wakes up as flat as a pancake after a bulletin board falls on him during the night!

In this weird and wonderful story, Stanley and his family try to figure out how to fix the flat problem, but in the end, he embraces his flatness and goes on incredible adventures. If your little one loves this story, there are a few books in the series to enjoy.

The title of this book might be challenging for kids to pronounce, but I think they’ll still enjoy the adorable story about a beautiful little mouse. As she grows up, she is confident in herself and her name: Chrysanthemum.

But when she starts school, the other kids make fun of her long and unusual name. Chrysanthemum embarks on a character-building journey as she learns to love her name, empowered by her adoring parents and a very special teacher.

Jabari is excited to jump off the diving board. Seeming fearless to embark on his bouncy adventure, there are little clues that he’s actually really nervous. Will Jabari find the courage to jump?

This book is an excellent tale about overcoming your fears and taking a leap of faith. Whether jumping off a diving board or trying another adventure, this is a great read for any child.

In this classic story, Mercy Watson, a beloved pig who lives with two humans, is oblivious to the disaster happening inside the house. While the bed is slowly plummetting through the floorboards, Mercy is preoccupied with her mission to find some buttery toast.

This ridiculously adorable story is a great introduction to chapter books. It’s fairly easy to read, and it has colored illustrations to keep six-year-olds hooked to the story.