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When it comes to raising little dreamers, the right books for 5 and 6 year olds can be total game-changers.

For little ones in your life, stories packed with adventure, kindness, and a sprinkle of imagination do more than just entertain—they help shape who they’ll become.

If you’re on the lookout for books that’ll keep those curious minds hooked while teaching some life lessons, check out this list of the 20 best books for 5 and 6 year olds that inspire and delight.

20 Best Books for 5 And 6 Year Olds

Looking for the perfect reads for your little ones? Check out our list of the 20 best books for 5 and 6 year olds that’ll keep them entertained and inspired!

1. “The Wonderful Things You Will Be” by Emily Winfield Martin

This charming book, one of the best books for 5-6 year olds, is a must-have for every kid’s bookshelf. With gorgeous illustrations and lyrical writing, “The Wonderful Things You Will Be” is all about celebrating the endless possibilities inside every little one. It’s a sweet nudge for kids to dream big and stay true to themselves, wrapped up with a warm reminder of just how loved they are.

2. “The Name Jar” by Yangsook Choi

This book is a heartwarming tale that dives into cultural identity and self-acceptance. It follows a young Korean girl who’s unsure about her name after moving to America. This story is a great way to teach kids about embracing diversity and being proud of who they are, no matter where they come from.

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3. “Giraffes Can’t Dance” by Giles Andreae and Guy Parker-Rees

Meet Gerald, the giraffe who might be a little awkward at first but soon discovers that everyone’s got their own special way to shine. This story is a fantastic pick for teaching kids about self-acceptance and sticking with it, even when things get tough. Gerald’s transformation from clumsy to confident shows young readers that embracing their uniqueness is what makes them truly amazing.

4. “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” by Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss’s “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” is a timeless gem that’s all about life’s ups and downs, wrapped in whimsical illustrations and an inspiring message. This classic is one of the best books for 5 and 6 year olds, perfect for giving kids a boost of confidence as they tackle challenges with a smile. With its catchy rhymes and vibrant visuals, it’s no wonder this book is a favorite with young readers everywhere.

5. “Last Stop on Market Street” by Matt de la Peña and Christian Robinson

This best book for 5 and 6-year-olds is a beautifully illustrated gem that dives into themes of community and finding beauty in the everyday. Join a young boy and his grandma as they ride the bus through their neighborhood, meeting all sorts of unique characters and discovering the magic in the world around them. It’s a sweet reminder that there’s beauty to be found in even the most ordinary moments.

6. “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds

This inspiring book follows a young girl named Vashti who discovers her artistic side with just a simple dot. As she starts believing in her creativity, she realizes the joy of self-expression. “The Dot” is a perfect pick for budding artists, encouraging them to embrace their creativity and build their confidence along the way.

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7. “Be Kind” by Pat Zietlow Miller and Jen Hill

In “Be Kind,” a young girl discovers just how powerful kindness can be through her everyday interactions at school. This book delivers a sweet yet impactful message about empathy and compassion, reminding kids that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a huge impact.

8. “What If Pig” by Linnea Riley

This charming tale, one of the best books for 5-6 year olds, follows a pig who’s a bit of a worrier, constantly stressing over all the “what ifs” life throws at him. But as Pig embarks on some fun adventures, he realizes that fretting about what could go wrong isn’t nearly as important as enjoying the moment. It’s a fun and lighthearted way to help kids learn about tackling anxiety and just living in the now.

9. “I Am Enough” by Grace Byers and Keturah A. Bobo

Thi book is all about self-love and confidence. Packed with uplifting affirmations and positive vibes, this book encourages kids to embrace their uniqueness and know they’re amazing just as they are. The stunning illustrations and rhythmic text make it a hit with young readers, making them feel like the superstars they truly are.

10. “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats

A timeless favorite, “The Snowy Day” perfectly captures the magic of a winter wonderland through the eyes of a young boy named Peter. This classic tale is all about the joy of new experiences and the thrill of exploring a world blanketed in snow. It’s simple, sweet, and endlessly charming—no wonder it’s been loved for generations!

11. “Ada Twist, Scientist” by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts

“Ada Twist, Scientist” is a delightful tale about a curious young girl who just can’t stop asking questions and digging into the mysteries of the world. This book is all about encouraging kids to embrace their curiosity and believe in the magic of science and discovery. Perfect for little explorers with big questions!

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12. “The Paper Bag Princess” by Robert Munsch and Michael Martchenko

This book for 5 and 6-year-olds is a feminist classic that flips the script on traditional fairy tales. In this story, a princess outsmarts a dragon and rescues herself—no knight in shining armor needed! It’s a fantastic read for teaching kids about bravery, self-reliance, and rewriting their own stories.

13. “How to Catch a Star” by Oliver Jeffers

In “How to Catch a Star,” a young boy sets out on a whimsical adventure to catch a star, turning his dream into a quest. It’s the perfect read to spark creativity and remind kids that no dream is too big, even if it seems a little out of reach.

14. “The Day the Crayons Quit” by Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers

This laugh-out-loud book has crayons going on strike, each one airing their grievances in the most creative ways. It’s a clever and fun way to teach kids about the importance of seeing things from different perspectives and valuing everyone’s unique voice.

15. “We Don’t Eat Our Classmates” by Ryan T. Higgins

This charming book, one of the best books for 5-6 year olds, follows Penelope Rex, a young dinosaur with one big challenge—resisting the urge to eat her classmates! It’s a hilarious and heartwarming tale that teaches kids about empathy, patience, and understanding others, all with a playful twist.

16. “The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!” by Mo Willems

Mo Willems’ favorite feathered friend is back in “The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!” In this hilarious tale, the pigeon discovers the ups (and downs) of sharing and generosity. It’s a perfect pick for teaching kids about kindness and the simple joy of sharing—with plenty of laughs along the way.

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17. “All Are Welcome” by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman

This beautifully illustrated gem celebrates diversity and inclusivity, reminding kids that everyone is welcome and valued. It’s a fantastic way to help young readers feel a sense of belonging and learn the importance of acceptance.

18. “Llama Llama Red Pajama” by Anna Dewdney

This book is a cozy bedtime tale about a little llama who gets a bit lonely and anxious when Mama steps out of the room. It’s a sweet and comforting story that helps kids navigate those feelings of separation anxiety, making bedtime a little easier.

19. “I Am Human: A Book of Empathy” by Susan Verde and Peter H. Reynolds

“I Am Human” is a delightful dive into the rollercoaster of being human, capturing all the highs and lows with a warm touch. This gem of a book empowers kids to not just feel their feelings but also to walk in someone else’s shoes with empathy and kindness.

20. “The Good Egg” by Jory John and Pete Oswald

In “The Good Egg,” our eggy hero is stuck in the exhausting game of perfection, bending over backward to keep everyone happy. But along the way, this charming tale serves up a crucial reminder: self-care matters, and it’s okay to embrace your quirks and imperfections. After all, nobody’s perfect, not even an egg!

These 20 best books for 5 and 6 year olds are more than just fun reads—they’re little treasure troves of lessons on self-esteem, kindness, and creativity.

Every book on this list can light up your kid’s imagination and help them fall in love with reading.

So, why not grab a few best books for 5 and 6 year olds, snuggle up, and let the magic of these stories inspire your little ones to dream big and celebrate their one-of-a-kind selves? Happy reading!

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