Build Your Home Library: 100 Books for Ages 1–10
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Build Your Home Library: 100 Books for Ages 1–10
If you’ve been following us for a while, you know how much we love reading and recommending books. Along with sharing our favorites, I truly enjoy researching new titles to add to our in-home library. Building a collection of trusted, engaging books is the perfect way to explore new stories, spark a love for reading, and create meaningful moments together.Reading isn’t just fun—it’s essential for childhood development. Books help children grow, imagine, and discover new ideas. That’s why I’ve created Build Your Home Library: 100 Books for Ages 1–10—a curated list filled with joyful picture books, early readers, faith-based stories, beloved classics, and exciting adventures.
Whether you’re searching for cozy bedtime stories, laugh-out-loud moments, or inspiring faith-filled reads, this list has something for every family. Let’s fill our homes with treasured books and sweet reading memories to last a lifetime!
Best Picture Books for Ages 3-6: Build Your Home Library: 100 Books for Ages 1–10
These books aren’t just stories—they’re little treasures. They spark wonder, giggles, and snuggles. Perfect for bedtime, story time, or any cozy reading moment!
- The Very Hungry Caterpillar – A hungry caterpillar eats through the week before becoming a butterfly.
- Goodnight Moon – A soothing bedtime story with gentle repetition.
- Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? – A simple, rhythmic story introducing colors and animals.
- Chicka Chicka Boom Boom – A playful alphabet adventure where letters race up a coconut tree—then tumble down!
- Where the Wild Things Are – A beautifully illustrated tale of a mischievous boy who learns the importance of home and love.
- The Little Blue Truck (Series) – A heartwarming series about kindness, teamwork, and perseverance.
- I Love You, Stinky Face – A mother reassures her child of unconditional love, no matter what.
Fun & Interactive Books to Keep Kids Engaged: Build Your Home Library: 100 Books for Ages 1–10
These books turn story time into playtime! They invite kids to press, shake, tap, and shout as they read.
- Press Here – A hands-on book where kids press, shake, and tilt to see what happens next.
- Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! – A hilarious story where kids must stop a determined pigeon from driving.
- Tap the Magic Tree – Kids help a tree change through the seasons by tapping and shaking the pages.
- The Monster at the End of This Book – Grover hilariously tries to stop kids from turning the pages.
- Mix It Up! – A fun way to teach color mixing through interactive storytelling.
Engaging Early Reader Books (Ages 4-7): Build Your Home Library: 100 Books for Ages 1–10
Perfect for new readers! These books feature lovable characters, fun adventures, and simple storytelling that keeps kids turning pages.
Silly & Fun Stories
- Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes – Pete stays cool no matter how his shoes change color in this groovy, rhythmic tale.
- The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! – Pigeon is excited about his hot dog, but sharing with a clever duckling is tricky.
- There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly – A silly, rhyming tale of an old lady who swallows one thing after another—with hilarious results.
- The Gruffalo – A clever mouse fools hungry predators by inventing a fearsome creature—until he meets the real thing!
- Room on the Broom – A kind witch and her cat make room for extra passengers, leading to a magical surprise.
- The Snail and the Whale – A tiny snail hitches a ride on a giant whale, proving even the smallest can make a big impact.
- Stick Man – Stick Man’s journey home takes unexpected turns—until a Christmas miracle helps him find his way.
- Zog – An eager young dragon struggles in school but discovers that helping others is his true gift.
- Zog and the Flying Doctors – Zog joins Princess Pearl and Sir Gadabout to care for magical creatures in need.
- The Smeds and the Smoos – Two very different families learn to embrace love and unity in this heartwarming tale.
Friendship & Adventure
- Frog and Toad Are Friends – A timeless collection of short stories about the charming friendship between Frog and Toad.
- Amelia Bedelia – Amelia’s literal misunderstandings lead to laugh-out-loud moments in this classic series.
- We’re Going on a Bear Hunt – A fun, repetitive adventure as a family sets off on an exciting bear hunt.
- What the Ladybird Heard – A quiet ladybird stops a sneaky plan to steal the farm’s prize cow.
- Charlie Cook’s Favorite Book – A clever book-within-a-book celebrating the joy of reading.
- Tyrannosaurus Drip – A little duckbill dinosaur struggles to fit in with the T. Rex family that mistakenly raised him.
Early Reader Series
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Series – A charming series about an old man and his cat sharing sweet, simple adventures.
- Biscuit Series – A lovable puppy named Biscuit explores the world in this easy-to-read favorite.
- Henry and Mudge Series – A heartwarming series about the friendship between a boy and his big, lovable dog.
- Mercy Watson Series – A toast-loving pig stumbles into hilarious adventures in this fun early-reader series.
Books That Teach Important Lessons
These heartwarming stories that help kids understand kindness, courage, and connection in ways they can relate to.
- The Kissing Hand – A touching story about love’s invisible bond, perfect for easing separation anxiety.
- What If Everybody Did That? – A fun, insightful book showing how small actions shape character and responsibility.
- The Invisible String – A heartwarming story reassuring children that love always keeps them connected.
- Have You Filled a Bucket Today? – A simple yet powerful lesson on kindness through the idea of an invisible bucket filled with love.
- Giraffes Can’t Dance – Gerald the giraffe learns that being different means finding his own rhythm in this uplifting tale of confidence and self-acceptance.
Silly & Laugh-Out-Loud Books for Kids
If you are looking for Silly & Laugh-Out Loud Books, look no further! These books are packed with humor, quirky characters, and unexpected twists that will have kids giggling from start to finish.
- Dragons Love Tacos – Adam Rubin
A hilarious tale about dragons who love tacos—but whatever you do, don’t let them near spicy salsa! - The Day the Crayons Quit – Drew Daywalt
Duncan’s crayons have had enough! Each one writes him a funny letter explaining why they’re on strike in this creative and witty story. - The Wonky Donkey – Craig Smith
A silly, rhyming story about a three-legged, one-eyed, honky-tonky, winky-wonky donkey that gets funnier with every page. - I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More! – Karen Beaumont
A mischievous child turns their entire body into a canvas in this rhythmic, rhyming book full of color and humor. - We Don’t Eat Our Classmates – Ryan T. Higgins
Penelope the T. rex is excited for school, but there’s one problem—her classmates are delicious! A hilarious story about friendship and self-control. - Grumpy Monkey – Suzanne Lang
Jim Panzee is having a bad day, but he refuses to admit it. A funny and relatable story about feelings, patience, and knowing it’s okay to be grumpy sometimes. - Interrupting Chicken – David Ezra Stein
A little red chicken can’t help but interrupt bedtime stories, leading to a hilarious back-and-forth between her and her patient papa.
Faith-Based Books for Kids
These books teach kids about Jesus, faith, gratitude, and God’s love in a way they can understand!
- Who Sang the First Song? – Ellie Holcomb
A beautiful story that helps kids see how God’s love and music are woven into creation. - Sounding Joy – Ellie Holcomb
A heartwarming book that celebrates the joy of Jesus’ birth and encourages kids to share that joy with others. - I’m So Blessed – CAIN
Inspired by the song I’m So Blessed, this book reminds kids to trust in God’s goodness no matter their circumstances. - Little Lion Lungs – Brandon Lake
A story inspired by the hit song, Gratitude. - The Jesus Storybook Bible – Sally Lloyd-Jones
A powerful children’s Bible that shows how every story in Scripture points to Jesus. - When God Made You – Matthew Paul Turner
A lyrical and inspiring book that reminds kids they were created with purpose and love. - You Are Special – Max Lucado
A beautiful parable about finding worth and identity in God, not in what others think. - Indescribable: 100 Devotions About God and Science – Louie Giglio
A fascinating devotional that connects science and faith, helping kids see God’s handiwork in creation. - God Gave Us Easter – Lisa Tawn Bergren
A sweet story about the meaning of Easter, told through a conversation between a little bear and their parent. - Good Good Father – Chris Tomlin & Pat Barrett
Inspired by Good Good Father, this book shows God’s love through a little bear’s search for a king.
Classic Books Every Child Should Read
Timeless stories filled with adventure, heart, and lessons that stay with readers for a lifetime.
- Charlotte’s Web – E.B. White
A heartwarming story of friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a wise spider named Charlotte. - Matilda – Roald Dahl
A tale of a brilliant girl with a love for books, a little bit of magic, and the courage to stand up for what’s right. - Winnie-the-Pooh – A.A. Milne
The adventures of Pooh Bear and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood, full of gentle wisdom and humor. - The Velveteen Rabbit – Margery Williams
A touching story about a stuffed rabbit who learns that love can make you real. - Pippi Longstocking – Astrid Lindgren
The wild and funny adventures of Pippi, an independent and imaginative girl with super strength and a heart of gold. - The Tale of Peter Rabbit – Beatrix Potter
The mischievous adventures of Peter Rabbit as he sneaks into Mr. McGregor’s garden. - Little House on the Prairie – Laura Ingalls Wilder
A historical fiction classic about the pioneer life of the Ingalls family as they settle in the American frontier. - Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Follows the lives of the March sisters as they grow up, face challenges, and discover who they’re meant to be. - Anne of Green Gables – L.M. Montgomery
The delightful and humorous story of Anne Shirley, an imaginative red-haired orphan who wins over the hearts of everyone in Avonlea. - The Wind in the Willows – Kenneth Grahame
A whimsical tale of friendship and adventure featuring Mole, Rat, Badger, and the ever-mischievous Toad.
Adventure & Fantasy Books for Ages 6-10
Magical worlds, daring quests, and unforgettable heroes—these books transport kids to places where courage, imagination, and faith come to life.
Classic & Secular Fantasy
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe – C.S. Lewis
Four siblings enter the magical world of Narnia and join Aslan the lion to defeat the White Witch. - The Hobbit – J.R.R. Tolkien
A quiet hobbit is swept into an adventure with dwarves to reclaim their homeland from a dragon. - The Secret Garden – Frances Hodgson Burnett
A lonely girl discovers a hidden garden that transforms her and those around her. - The Tale of Despereaux – Kate DiCamillo
A tiny mouse with a big heart embarks on a quest to rescue a princess. - Eragon (The Inheritance Cycle) – Christopher Paolini
A farm boy finds a dragon egg and is thrust into an epic battle against a dark ruler. - Redwall – Brian Jacques
A young mouse sets out to defend Redwall Abbey from an evil rat warlord. - Inkheart – Cornelia Funke
A girl discovers her father can bring book characters to life, leading to magical chaos. - The Spiderwick Chronicles – Tony DiTerlizzi & Holly Black
Siblings move into their great-aunt’s mansion and uncover a world of magical creatures. - The Neverending Story – Michael Ende
A boy finds a book that pulls him into the world of Fantasia, where imagination is power. - The House with a Clock in Its Walls – John Bellairs
A boy moves in with his eccentric uncle and uncovers a ticking clock with magical secrets.
Faith-Based Adventure & Fantasy
These exciting stories blend faith, adventure, and powerful lessons, taking kids on epic journeys of courage, redemption, and spiritual growth.
- The Wingfeather Saga: On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness – Andrew Peterson
Three siblings uncover their true identity and stand against an evil empire. - The Green Ember – S.D. Smith
Brave rabbits fight to restore a fallen kingdom in this Christian allegory. - The Prince Warriors – Priscilla Shirer
Kids enter a spiritual realm to battle darkness and learn about the armor of God. - The Cooper Kids Adventure Series – Frank Peretti
Action-packed mysteries where siblings uncover biblical truths and adventure. - The Imagination Station Series – Marianne Hering
A time-traveling adventure where kids experience biblical and historical events firsthand. - Little Pilgrim’s Progress – Helen L. Taylor
A beautifully illustrated adaptation of Pilgrim’s Progress for young readers. - The Chronicles of Prydain – Lloyd Alexander
A pig-keeper embarks on epic quests to fulfill his destiny. - The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls – M.J. Thomas
Kids travel back in time to witness Bible stories unfold firsthand. - The Kingdom Tales Trilogy – David & Karen Mains
An allegorical fantasy illustrating God’s love and redemption. - The Knights of Arrethtrae Series – Chuck Black
A medieval Christian series where knights fight for righteousness and truth. - The Dragon Keepers Chronicles – Donita K. Paul
A faith-based fantasy series where dragons and humans unite to battle darkness
Seasonal Books for Spring
Celebrate spring, new beginnings, and the joy of Jesus with these vibrant books.
- The Tiny Seed – Eric Carle
Follow a tiny seed’s journey through the seasons as it grows into a beautiful flower. A simple yet powerful story about perseverance and nature’s cycle. - And Then It’s Spring – Julie Fogliano
A gentle, poetic story about the patience and wonder of waiting for spring to bloom. - How to Catch a Leprechaun – Adam Wallace
This books has a fun and mischievous tale of setting traps to catch a sneaky leprechaun before he escapes. - Worm Weather – Jean Taft
A simple rhyming book about rainy spring days, perfect for little ones who love puddle-jumping and playing in the mud. - Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring – Kenard Pak
A beautiful journey through the changing seasons, with a boy and his dog exploring the signs of spring’s arrival.
Faith-Based Spring Books
These uplifting books celebrate God’s creation, the joy of Easter, and the renewal of spring, helping children connect faith with the season.
- God’s Amazing Creation – Louie Giglio
A kids’ devotional connecting God’s hand in nature and spring renewal through science and faith. - Spring Sings– Ellie Holcomb
A joyful celebration of God’s creation as spring bursts to life - The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross – Carl Laferton
A beautifully illustrated book guiding children through Easter, from Eden to Jesus’ resurrection, revealing His sacrifice restores our relationship with God. - God Gave Us Easter– Lisa Tawn Bergren
A charming story where a little cub learns about renewal, new life, and God’s design in the changing seasons. - A Very Happy Easter – Tim Thornborough
An interactive book that helps children understand the emotions of the Easter story and why Jesus’ resurrection brings us joy. - Easter Is Coming! – Tama Fortner
A beautifully written book that builds excitement for Easter as children journey through God’s story of redemption. - Jesus Rose for Me – Jared Kennedy
A toddler-friendly retelling of the Easter story that introduces little ones to the gospel.
Final Thoughts.
I think I could add at least 40 more books to this list! Of course, there are always more books to read and recommend, but we hope you enjoy this list as much as we do! If you’re looking for more seasonal books, check out Cozy Winter Reads to Add to Your Home, 14 Heartwarming Valentine’s Books Your Little Valentines Will Love, and 15 Great Books to Put in Your Easter Baskets This Year!
If you love listening to books in the car, during quiet time, or just for fun, check out Story Time With Bear & Mama Podcast! You’ll find me, Mama, and my cuddly co-host—my 5-year-old son, Bear—reading and sharing all our favorite books!
Leave a comment and let me know if there are any books you love that I missed or which ones are your favorites!
Happy Reading Friends!
Hugs,
Cassie
I love this list! So many beloved titles!! And a few I’ve had to add to my amazon cart! Thanks for sharing! There are a lot of classics I grew up on that I enjoy reading to my kiddos on here too! So cool how books stick around 😊
You are so right! It really is so cool how books can stand the test of time! Thanks so much and I’m so glad you found some good ones to add to your library!