The array of children’s books out there can be downright overwhelming. Which ones are the ‘right’ ones? What themes are important for your baby boy as he embarks on his journey of growing up? Well, no worries! I’ve done the legwork for you, sifting through countless titles to bring you a curated list of baby books that are perfect for boys.
Baby Books for Boys
From timeless classics like “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” to newer gems like “The Boy with Big, Big Feelings,” each selection offers its own unique charm and life lesson. So, buckle up as we explore books that cover everything from building emotional intelligence to nurturing a vivid imagination.
1. Love You Forever, by Robert Munsch
Love You Forever is a poignant story by Robert Munsch, which has touched the hearts of millions since its publication in 1986. It tells the story of a mother’s unconditional love for her son, and the special bond they share over the course of their lives.
The story follows the mother as she sings her son a special song as he grows up and eventually has a family of his own. The mother’s devotion to her son is so strong that she continues to sing him the same song even when he is grown and living far away from her.
The story of Love You Forever conveys an important message about the importance of unconditional love, which is something that all parents can relate to. The story also speaks to our need for connection and support, even in times of difficulty and change.
2. The Boy with Big, Big Feelings, by Britney Winn Lee
The Boy with Big, Big Feelings is a picture book by Brittney Winn Lee and illustrated by Jacob Souva about a young boy who experiences a wide range of emotions. The main character has an appreciation for the spectrum of feelings he experiences, from joy to sadness. His emotions are so strong that they can be seen radiating from his cheeks and spilling out of his eyes.
The book is designed to help children identify their feelings and understand how to cope with them. It takes the reader through a journey of learning that it’s okay to experience difficult emotions, while also providing an introduction to self-care techniques such as art therapy and deep breathing.
3. Why a Son Needs a Mom, by Gregory E. Lang, Susanna Leonard Hill
Why a Son Needs a Mom: Celebrate Your Special Mother and Son Bond with this Sweet Picture Book!, by Gregory E. Lang, Susanna Leonard Hill is an inspiring picture book for kids ages 3-7 and beyond. This book highlights all the special moments that mothers and sons share throughout their lives, featuring charming animal illustrations and heartwarming rhymes.
It’s a great way for mothers to connect with their sons and remind them of the strong bond they share. With this book, readers can explore topics such as growing up, learning new skills, showing kindness, facing challenges, and celebrating accomplishments. This unique story captures all the magical moments that come with being a mom and son pair and is the perfect gift for any special mother and son.
4. In My Heart: A Book of Feelings, by Jo Witek
In My Heart: A Book of Feelings, by Jo Witek, is a vibrant and empowering picture book that encourages children to express and explore their emotions. This colorful book features a die-cut heart that extends throughout each page, as well as whimsical illustrations that help to bring the story to life.
The book explores a full spectrum of feelings and emotions, from happiness to bravery to anger. It also provides a physical and emotional context for each emotion, providing children with the tools they need to articulate their own feelings.
5. The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle
The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle is a children’s book about the transformation of an ordinary caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly. In the story, the caterpillar hatches one sunny Sunday from a tiny egg and is instantly hungry. He eats his way through each day of the week, consuming more and more food until he is full. After he goes to sleep in his cocoon, he wakes up weeks later as a butterfly.
This picture book has become a classic and continues to inspire generations of young readers with its beautiful illustrations and simple yet powerful story about growth and transformation.
6. Moo Baa La La La, by Sandra Boynton
Moo Baa La La La, by Sandra Boynton, is a beloved children’s book that introduces readers to animals and the fun noises they make. The story follows different animals as they each make their unique sound: oinking, snorting, quacking and meowing. At the end of the book, readers are invited to join in on the fun and imitate the animal noises too!
7. Dinoblock, by Christopher Franceschelli
Dinoblock, by Christopher Franceschelli, is an exciting and unique addition to the Abrams Block Book series. It introduces young readers to a variety of dinosaur species from across the Jurassic, Triassic, and Cretaceous periods. Each species is introduced with comparisons to familiar objects in a child’s life – allowing them to understand the size differences, shapes, and special physical attributes of each dinosaur.
Related: Best Books for 5 Year Olds
8. The Wonderful Things You Will Be, by Emily Winfield Martin
The Wonderful Things You Will Be is a delightful book that celebrates the potential of every child. With captivating illustrations and clever rhyme, this book warmly encourages children to explore the possibilities that lie ahead and become their best selves. Through its timeless message of love, acceptance and encouragement, it shows readers that it’s never too late to start dreaming of a better future.
9. If I Built a Car, by Chris Van Dusen
If I Built a Car is a whimsical story about a young boy, Jack, and his dream car.This car has all sorts of amazing features, such as a snack bar, pool and even a robot named Robert acting as its chauffeur. Throughout the book, Jack’s imagination takes readers through various adventures, from deep-sea diving to soaring high above traffic.
The colorful and detailed illustrations in this book are inspired by classic American automobiles of the 1950s. The rhythm of the story also offers a fun read aloud experience that kids can enjoy together as they use their imaginations to create stories around Jack’s car.
Related: Best baby books for girls
10. Good Night, Gorilla, by Peggy Rathmann
Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann is a delightful good-night story that follows the mischievous antics of a short, furry guy with a key in his hand as he sneaks around the zoo at bedtime. As the zookeeper says good night to all the animals, readers will be amused to find out who gets the last laugh.
11. Mitchell’s License, by Hallie Durand
Mitchell’s License follows the story of a four-year-old boy obsessed with cars who gets his own license. The story is told through humorous illustrations by Tony Fucile that portray the bond between Mitchell and his obliging father. Mitchell takes to driving like a pro, navigating left turns, right turns, and speed bumps with ease. But he and his car have a disagreement about what type of fuel should go into the tank.
12. The Skin You Live In, by Michael Tyler
The Skin You Live In, by Michael Tyler, is a delightful picture book that promotes social acceptance and harmony in children. Through simple nursery rhyme-like prose and vivid illustrations, the story conveys important messages of self-esteem, friendship, and diversity.
Children from all cultures are depicted engaging in activities such as swimming in the ocean, hugging, catching butterflies, and eating birthday cake. This book provides an excellent way for parents and teachers to discuss these important topics with their children in a meaningful and engaging manner.
13. Don’t Push the Button!: A Funny Interactive Book For Kids, by Bill Cotter
Don’t Push the Button!: A Funny Interactive Book For Kids, by Bill Cotter is a hilarious, interactive book that encourages children to use their imaginations. The book follows Larry’s rule: never push the button! If readers do, they can expect to find out what happens next. Children will be delighted and entertained by the vivid descriptions and funny illustrations.
14. What a Wonderful World, by Bob Thiele, George David Weiss
What a Wonderful World is an uplifting message of hope for people all over the world. Originally recorded in 1967 by Louis Armstrong, this song has become a global phenomenon with over one million copies sold. The lyrics and music of this song provide a positive outlook on life and evoke feelings of joy and optimism. The accompanying artwork is beautiful and vibrant, adding to the uplifting mood of this timeless classic.
15. The Great Puppy Invasion Padded Board Book, by Alastair Heim
In The Great Puppy Invasion Padded Board Book, by Alastair Heim, a small town called Strictville is thrown into chaos when hundreds of puppies suddenly appear in their midst. No one in the town has ever seen puppies before and cuteness of any kind is strictly forbidden. One brave boy decides to stand up to the town’s narrow-mindedness and give these puppies a chance.
The story follows the boy as he helps the puppies adjust to their new home, with plenty of mishaps along the way! Even when faced with an angry mayor and his strict rules, this hero is not deterred.
Final thoughts
As you flip the last page of “The Great Puppy Invasion” and your little guy’s eyes finally grow heavy, you realize the extraordinary power of a good book. From instilling a sense of wonder to offering critical life lessons, this curated list of baby books for boys goes beyond mere entertainment.
They tackle complex emotions, celebrate creativity, and encourage curiosity—all vital components in shaping a young mind. Each book on this list brings something unique to the table, like tools in an ever-expanding toolkit that your son will carry with him as he grows.
