23 Classic Children’s Books for 3- to 5-Year-Olds
These are the children’s books that you give as gifts or buy for your family, because borrowing them from the library and reading them once or twice will never be enough. They are the ones that join generations, which you may have read as a child, and which will be hard to give away when your children outgrow them. They are the ones you may be tempted to hang on to — “just in case” — to read to visiting nieces and nephews and, just maybe, the ones you keep around long enough to read to your grandchildren. That, friends, is what we mean by classic.
This list originally appeared on ReadBrightly.com.
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1
Add to BookshelfMake Way for Ducklings 75th Anniversary Edition
by Robert McCloskey
Young readers will be charmed by the vividly rendered characters of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard, their adorable children, and their eventful journey all over Boston. For the next decade or so, prepare to affectionately call every mallard you see in real life Mr. or Mrs. Mallard.
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2
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3
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The Name Jar
by Yangsook Choi
Starting at a new school is tough, especially for Unhei who recently moved from Korea and is feeling anxious about fitting in. During her introduction she feels the pressure to pick a name different from her own from a jar, but none of them feel like a good fit. In this classic tale, she discovers the importance of staying true to herself and embracing her identity.
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4
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Blueberries for Sal
by Robert McCloskey
Sal and her mother are picking blueberries and encounter a young bear and its mother doing the same. A charming story of a summer day in Maine, and the small adventures that can enter ordinary days.
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5
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Max and the Tag-Along Moon
by Floyd Cooper
Imagine the joy of having the moon as your companion on your way back home, as promised by your dear Grandpa. Max adores his grandpa and cherishes the moments spent with him. When it’s time to say goodbye and head home, Grandpa assures Max that the moon will follow him all the way. During the journey, Max watches in awe. But, when the sky darkens, and the moon disappears behind clouds, Max starts to worry that it might not keep the promise.
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6
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The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night
by Peter Spier
Originally published with black and white illustrations, this classic picture book earned Peter Spier a Caldecott Honor. Over 50 years later, the artist returned to it, adding vibrant colors to his gorgeous artwork and making it accessible to a new generation of readers.
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7
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Abuela
by Arthur Dorros
Get ready for an exciting adventure with Rosalba and her Abuela as they soar over the bustling streets, and iconic landmarks of New York City! With a mix of English and Spanish, Abuela takes Rosalba on a fun-filled ride, pointing out all the amazing places as they explore together. The bond between this grandmother and granddaughter duo is unbeatable, making their exhilarating story unforgettable. This story is also available in a Spanish-language edition.
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8
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Corduroy 40th Anniversary Edition
by Don Freeman
A tender story of a sweet teddy bear and the girl who counts her piggy bank money out to buy him. “You must be a friend. I’ve always wanted a friend,” says Corduroy.
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9
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The Snowy Day
by Ezra Jack Keats
Through the appreciative eyes of a curious little boy, the everyday wonders of snow and sticks and wandering play become extraordinary. Brilliant simplicity.
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10
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The Story of Ferdinand
by Munro Leaf
One bull is not like the other roughhousing ones. Gentle Ferdinand likes to lie under the cork tree and smell the flowers, but in the unlikeliest turn of events, Ferdinand is selected for the bullfighting ring in Madrid. A lovely tribute to acceptance of our own and our children’s unique selves.
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11
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Millions of Cats (Gift Edition)
by Wanda Gág
This delightful story about an elderly couple adopting a cat is just as fun to read now as when it was published. It received multiple awards (including a Newbery Honor) and charmed generations of pet-loving kids and adults. This American classic is a must-have for any home library.
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12
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Owl Moon
by Jane Yolen
It’s finally the young narrator’s turn to go looking for owls with Pa, long past bedtime. The silent journey through the wintry woods is a rich sensory adventure and a testament to the quiet, steady closeness of parent and child and the wonder of nature.
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13
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The Very Hungry Caterpillar
by Eric Carle
No child’s bookshelf is complete without this classic from beloved author Eric Carle. Follow the hungry caterpillar as he chews through the days of the week and an increasing amount of food. With bonus content including sketches, photos, a history of the Caterpillar, and letters from the author and Dolly Parton, this special anniversary edition is a must-have.
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14
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The Poky Little Puppy
by Janette Sebring Lowrey
Each day, the little puppy and his siblings dig a hole under the fence and explore the world beyond. As one of the original Little Golden Books, it’s one of the most iconic books for children. It’s no wonder that this charming story became the bestselling picture book of all time.
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15
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Madeline
by Ludwig Bemelmans
You can’t have a list of classic children’s books without mentioning Madeline. After more than 80 years in print, this picture book series featuring a spunky little girl still captivates children worldwide.
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16
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Are You My Mother?
by P.D. Eastman
When a baby bird hatches and can’t find his mother, he goes looking for her. He meets all sorts of creatures like a kitten, a dog, a cow, and a Snort, but none of them is his mother. Initially published in 1960, this early-reader classic makes a lovely gift for baby showers and special occasions.
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17
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Just Me and My Dad (Little Critter)
by Mercer Mayer
Children and parents alike adore this story about Little Critter’s camping trip with his dad. From setting up the tent to launching the canoe, their misadventures in the outdoors are both humorous and touching.
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18
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Richard Scarry’s What Do People Do All Day?
by Richard Scarry
Few picture book authors have created such an iconic and recognizable world as Richard Scarry. This classic picture book takes young readers on a tour of Busytown. From firefighters to farmers, everyone has a job to do.
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19
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John Henry
by Julius Lester
Introduce your child to the American folklore legend, John Henry. This stunning picture book depicts the classic tale of the baby who grew up to become stronger than ten men. For over 25 years, readers of all ages have enjoyed this Caldecott Honor-winning book and its funny, lyrical text.
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20
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Dr. Seuss’s ABC
by Dr. Seuss
If you have children, you’ve probably read this classic ABC book. In his unique and zany style, Dr. Seuss introduces the letters of the alphabet to children. As one of the funniest and enthralling alphabet books ever written, it’s a popular gift for baby showers and birthdays.
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21
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The Velveteen Rabbit
Margery Williams
Children that enjoy longer books will appreciate the classic story of the toy rabbit who came to life. Even though the other toys and rabbits scorn the Velveteen Rabbit, the Boy loves him. After a heartbreaking separation, a fairy turns the toy into a real rabbit and reminds him of the Boy’s unconditional love.
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22
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Scuffy the Tugboat
by Gertrude Crampton
First published in 1946, this classic Little Golden Book has never been out of print and continues to delight children today. A little tugboat wants to see the world, so he abandons the people who care for him and sails down the river. Along the way, he discovers that all he wants is to return home.
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23
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Andy and the Lion
by James Daugherty
Based on the folktale Androcles and the Lion, James Daugherty’s Caldecott Honor-winning picture book became a classic. A young boy named Andy gets a book about lions from the library. Soon, an imaginary lion follows Andy everywhere, and they have incredible adventures together. This upbeat and exciting story is perfect for young readers with big imaginations.
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