100 EYFS picture books to read before you are 5 years old

Books for EYFS – our recommendations

Our books for EYFS selection contains over 100 picture books to read before you’re five years old, curated by our experienced children’s literature specialists, all of whom are highly qualified EYFS teachers and librarians. This list of recommended picture books includes a wide range of classics, modern award-winning illustrated picture stories, and highly visual read-aloud tales ideal for storytime. All of the novels on our EYFS reading list were chosen based on positive input from parents and teachers. These stories are appropriate for children aged 3-5 who are learning to read at home or in nursery, preschool, early years, and infant schools. How many of these modern and classic picture books for children in the early years setting have you read?

Children learn to read pictures before they read words, and that’s why it’s so important to make use of picture books when reading with the youngest children. There will be a wide variation in reading and inference abilities in this age group, and this is normal. Children love to look at stories through the illustrations, ask questions and think about what will happen next. Repetitive language and the use of rhyme will also help children to predict, mimic and remember the words, and encourage them to join in with parents, teachers or older siblings at reading time.

This collection of 100 picture books includes wordless stories, rhyming tales, counting stories, poetry and traditional fables – all highly illustrated to keep your child’s imagination fired up. This list of recommendations is reviewed termly and includes high-quality picture books by Jill Murphy, Julia Donaldson, Alexis Deacon, Aaron Becker, Eric Carle, Michael Rosen, Ying Chang Compestine, Marta Altés and more.

Great picture books for EYFS children
Books for EYFS children
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A Poem in the Sky by Benjamin Zephaniah, illustrated by Nila Aye

Poems appear on faces, in the sky, in space, in dreams, on fingers and even in teeth in this spectacularly imaginative rhyming picture book by Benjamin Zephaniah. Repeated lines, vibrant illustrations and a steady read-aloud beat invite children to look and listen for rhythm in everyday moments, with short lines that suit shared reading and shared discussion with 3-5 year olds. Highly recommended.

A Poem in the Sky by Benjamin Zephaniah, illustrated by Nila Aye

Dragon Noodle Party by Ying Chang CompestineDragon Noodle Party by Ying Chang Compestine.
Bears Don't Eat Egg Sandwiches by Julie FultonBears Don’t Eat Egg Sandwiches by Julie Fulton.
The Lion Inside by Rachel BrightThe Lion Inside by Rachel Bright.

I’m going to make a friend by Darren Chetty and Sandhya Prabhat

Starting a new school can feel huge – especially when you’re wondering what it takes to make a friend. This gentle, thoughtful and geuninely useful story for 3-6 year olds follows one child’s hopes, worries, and quiet questions about sharing, boundaries, and what it means to connect. As they build a cardboard companion, their imagination and emotions unfold in parallel, offering a subtle take on identity, play, and early friendship. It’s a lovely, understated reflection on change and finding your people – whoever they may be. Highly recommended for EYFS and KS1. Now out in paperback.

I'm going to make a friend by Darren Chetty and Sandhya Prabhat

All Join in by Quentin BlakeAll Join in by Quentin Blake.
Mr Wolf's Pancakes by Jan FearnleyMr Wolf’s Pancakes by Jan Fearnley.
Suddenly! by Colin McNaughtonSuddenly! by Colin McNaughton.

Seahorse Is Furious by Morag Hood

When Seahorse wakes in a bad mood, he stubs his tail, and only gets angrier as the day goes on. Other sea creatures offer hugs, stories and snacks, but nothing improves his mood. The clever, funny and poignant repetition gives this outstanding picture book for 3+ year olds an addictive read-aloud rhythm, while Morag Hood’s graphic underwater scenes make empathising with Seahorse’s feelings accessible to preschool and EYFS children. It is a useful picture book for talking with young children about bad moods, frustration and what helps. Highly recommended.

Seahorse Is Furious by Morag Hood

Peace at Last by Jill MurphyPeace at Last by Jill Murphy.
The Wonder by Faye HansonThe Wonder by Faye Hanson.
Owl Babies by Martin Waddell, Patrick BensonOwl Babies by Martin Waddell and Patrick Benson.

The Egg of an Ogg by Key Gray and Nick East

When Ivan and his sister find a strange egg in the forest, an old man warns them to leave it alone. But nobody listens. As neighbours crowd round and the egg hatches, curiosity turns to alarm when the creature keeps growing and threatens to flatten the town! Infectious rhyme, clever use of repetition and sheer comic suspense drive this outstandingly funny picture book story for 3+ year olds that will keep children guessing until the final page. This clever modern fable is perfect to share with children in EYFS.

The Egg of an Ogg by Key Gray and Nick East

Aliens Love Underpants! by Claire FreedmanAliens Love Underpants! by Claire Freedman.
Dinosaurs Love Underpants by Claire FreedmanDinosaurs Love Underpants by Claire Freedman.
Grumpy Frog by Ed VereGrumpy Frog by Ed Vere.

Big Red Dragon by Jane Newberry, illustrated by Carolina Rabei

Big Red Dragon features 15 action rhymes that will engage younger children with activities and festivals such as Easter, Halloween, Diwali, Christmas, and Chinese New Year. Suitable for home, playgroup, or nursery, it promotes language development through interactive poems, beautiful bright illustrations, and clear instructions for parents and carers, complementing Jane Newberry’s previous collection, Big Green Crocodile. It is highly recommended for nursery and EYFS libraries and for reading at home to very young children. Now available in paperback.

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The Tickle Book by Ian WhybrowThe Tickle Book by Ian Whybrow.
Burglar Bill by Janet Ahlberg, Allan AhlbergBurglar Bill by Janet Ahlberg and Allan Ahlberg.
How Many Legs? by Kes GrayHow Many Legs? by Kes Gray.

We Can Be Mermaids by Lanisha Butterfield, illustrated by Raissa Figueroa

Silver loves swimming and dreams of becoming a mermaid, but her dad can’t swim and always stays at the side of the pool. At home, Silver loves her mermaid world of stories, games and cupcakes, but she starts to worry that following her swimming dreams will mean leaving her dad behind. In this outstanding picture book for 3+ year olds, Lanisha Butterfield turns that worry into a warm-hearted story about family support, swimming accessibility and a love of the water. The illustrations by Raissa Figueroa are a particular highlight. Perfect for reading and sharing in EYFS classes.

We Can Be Mermaids by Lanisha Butterfield

Oi Frog by Kes Gray, Jim FieldOi Frog by Kes Gray and Jim Field.
Spinderella by Julia DonaldsonSpinderella by Julia Donaldson.
Zog Christmas by Julia DonaldsonZog Christmas by Julia Donaldson.

I Want Everything by Sophy Henn

Big Ghost wants everything, but Little Ghost is not convinced. As the two talk it through, the story moves from wanting things to seeing the value of friendship and the warmth of shared moments. Told through vibrant speech bubbles and cleverly direct questions, this outstanding and boldly illustrated picture book for 3+ year olds gives young children an easy way to explore what it means to want versus need and what matters most in life. Highly recommended.

I Want Everything by Sophy Henn

The Squirrels Who Squabbled by Rachel BrightThe Squirrels Who Squabbled by Rachel Bright.
Tiddler Book. Book + CD by Julia DonaldsonTiddler Book. Book + CD by Julia Donaldson.
Pants by Giles AndreaePants by Giles Andreae.

Mo’s Stick by Fiona Lumbers

Mo – a mouse – loses a favourite stick and feels its absence, thinking back to the imaginative games it powered, from sailing at sea to travelling into space. As he looks for a replacement, the story cleverly makes it clear that the play came from Mo’s mind rather than the object. Collage-style artwork and die-cut pages are built into the colourful, engaging narrative. This impressive, high-quality 32-page hardback is perfect for 3-6 year olds and supports discussion about imagination and creative play. It’s ideal for nursery and EYFS settings. Highly recommended.

Mo's Stick by Fiona Lumbers

What Do You Do with a Tail Like This? by Steve Jenkins, Robin PageWhat Do You Do with a Tail Like This? by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page.
Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratneyGuess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney.
Flotsam by David WiesnerFlotsam by David Wiesner.

We All Love by Julie Flett

Animals and children are shown caring for one another across land and water, from baby bears and ducklings to families spending time together. Julie Flett’s beautiful, emotive, textured artwork sits alongside simple rhyming text, with a repeated Cree refrain meaning “We do, too.” The book includes a glossary of Cree animal names and a short letter from the author, supporting shared reading and discussion about care, connection and belonging. An outstanding picture book to read and explore with 0–7 year olds. Highly recommended for EYFS classrooms.

We All Love by Julie Flett

Corduroy by Don FreemanCorduroy by Don Freeman.
Sheep in a Jeep 5-Minute Stories by Nancy E. ShawSheep in a Jeep 5-Minute Stories by Nancy E. Shaw.
Daddy Lion's Tea Party by Mark SperringDaddy Lion’s Tea Party by Mark Sperring.

Bear’s Perfect Dance by Rachel Tilda Wolf

Bear loves to dance and practises whenever he can, but something feels missing. Dancing alone is fun, yet some moves really need two. As Bear searches for a partner, this lyrical story deftly explores how we experience friendship, confidence and sharing what you love. This charming picture book for 3+ year olds invites children to move, make up dances, try costumes and think about how great it feels to work together. It’s ideal to read and share in preschool and EYFS settings.

Bear's Perfect Dance by Rachel Tilda Wolf

My Grandpa by Marta AltésMy Grandpa by Marta Altés.
Mole in a Black & White Hole by Tereza SedivaMole in a Black & White Hole by Tereza Sediva.
Tomi Ungerer: a Treasury of 8 Books by Tomi UngererTomi Ungerer: a Treasury of 8 Books by Tomi Ungerer.

Nico the Donkey’s New Home by Elena Mannion and Erin Brown

Nico the donkey lives with Mrs Anderson, who adopted him years earlier. But when he needs more care than she can provide, a local sanctuary offers him a home with other donkeys. Mrs Anderson continues to visit every week, keeping their bond part of his routine in this heart-warming story that explores animal welfare, companionship, making practical choices and embracing change. Ideal for 4+ year olds, this beautifully illustrated and thought-provoking picture book is perfect for reading and sharing with preschool and EYFS classes.

Nico the Donkey's New Home by Elena Mannion and Erin Brown

Thunder Underground by Jane YolenThunder Underground by Jane Yolen.
Lion and the Mouse by Jerry PinkneyLion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney.
This Book Is Pants by John KaneThis Book Is Pants by John Kane.

Big Brilliant World by Matt Ralphs and Aysha Tengiz

3–8 year olds take a fantastic journey through 12 cities, from London and Tokyo to Istanbul, guided by immersive illustrated spreads packed with landmarks, food and everyday words. Each page in this large-format hardback invites close attention, encouraging children to spot details and absorb simple language phrases along the way. The focus is firmly on how cities feel and function, with punchy bursts of facts and knowledge. Big Brilliant World a fascinating read – perfect for EYFS and Reception classes, offering an accessible and reassuring starting point for exploring languages and diverse city life. Highly recommended.

Big Brilliant World by Matt Ralphs and Aysha Tengiz

What the Ladybird Heard by Julia DonaldsonWhat the Ladybird Heard by Julia Donaldson.
The Something by Rebecca CobbThe Something by Rebecca Cobb.
This is Not My Hat by Jon KlassenThis is Not My Hat by Jon Klassen.

Mr Norton’s New Hat by Huw Lewis Jones and Corey Egbert

Horace Norton doesn’t mind when a little mouse moves into his hat – what’s one tiny guest? But soon, birds nest in his pockets, squirrels stash acorns in his boots, and cats curl up in his chair. The growing menagerie turns his life upside down until, in a moment of frustration, he shoos them all away. But the sudden quiet feels… wrong. With playful repetition and a warm heart, this story gently explores kindness, patience, and the unexpected joys of company. Highly recommended for EYFS, Mr Norton’s New Hat is a picture book children will want to read again and again.

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Oh, the Places You'll Go! by Dr. SeussOh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss.
The Princess and the Pea by Lauren Child, Polly BorlandThe Princess and the Pea by Lauren Child and Polly Borland.
Beegu by Alexis DeaconBeegu by Alexis Deacon.

The Map of Me by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Olga Shtonda

When a young girl moves to a new country, she copes by carefully drawing a map with her mum. They add the people they meet, the places they discover, and all the memories she wants to hold on to. As friends share their own stories, the map grows into something spellbinding that links them all. When her life shifts again, she learns she can adapt and keep shaping her map, using it to make sense of where she has been and where she is going. This highly imaginative, touching and useful picture book is ideal to read and discuss with EYFS classes. Highly recommended.

The Map of Me by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Olga Shtonda

Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy RathmannGood Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann.
Pumpkin Soup by Helen CooperPumpkin Soup by Helen Cooper.
I Want My Potty! by Tony RossI Want My Potty! by Tony Ross.

Hot Food Nice! by Michael Rosen

A family sits down to eat, and Michael’s dad bites into a potato that is far hotter than he expects. What follows is the familiar fun and read-aloud chaos of Michael Rosen’s much-loved poem, brought to life with Neal Layton’s lively illustrations. This memorable picture book leans into the repetition and rhythm that make the original such a thrill to read with 3–7-year-olds, turning an everyday mealtime into a memorable moment. It’s ideal to read to EYFS classes.

Hot Food Nice! by Michael Rosen

Once Upon an Alphabet by Oliver JeffersOnce Upon an Alphabet by Oliver Jeffers.
Princess Smartypants by Babette ColePrincess Smartypants by Babette Cole.
Little Owl's Night by Divya SrinivasanLittle Owl’s Night by Divya Srinivasan.

The Turtle Who Turned the Tide by Rachel Bright and Jim Field

When Tula, a baby turtle, hatches on the beach, she instinctively races toward the sea. But when her brother loses his way, she stops to help him, even though it means giving up her lead. Her kindness inspires the other animals to lend a hand too. With its gentle story and clear message, this gorgeous and vibrantly illustrated hardback picture book introduces 3+ year olds to ideas of bravery, teamwork, and how even small actions can make a big difference. Highly recommended for EYFS classes.

The Turtle Who Turned the Tide by Rachel Bright

Journey by Aaron BeckerJourney by Aaron Becker.
It Fell from the Sky by Eric FanIt Fell from the Sky by Eric Fan.
This is London by Miroslav SasekThis is London by Miroslav Sasek.

My Book of Classic Nursery Tales by James Mayhew

Eight classic tales from around the world are retold for 2+ year olds with sumptuous, vibrant illustrations by James Mayhew. Inside are favourites such as Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Little Red Riding Hood, The Billy Goats Gruff, The Three Little Pigs, The Enormous Turnip, The Tortoise and the Hare, The Gingerbread Man and The Vain Little Mouse. Presented with distinctive collage spreads, this spectacular hardback introduces preschool and EYFS children to a diverse range of traditional stories from England, Germany, Norway, Ukraine, Greece, North America and Spain. Highly recommended.

My Book of Classic Nursery Tales by James Mayhew

Zagazoo by Quentin BlakeZagazoo by Quentin Blake.
The Jolly Postman, Or, Other People's Letters by Janet Ahlberg, Allan AhlbergThe Jolly Postman, Or, Other People’s Letters by Janet Ahlberg and Allan Ahlberg.
Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise BrownGoodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown.

Mandy Is Still a Banana by Zoe Arena & Amy Evans

Mandy is a banana who longs to be anything but herself, until her friend Blip the blueberry shows her the good in being exactly who she is. With a cheerful cast of fruit, the story playfully nudges3-5 year olds towards ideas of self-acceptance and individuality. Bright, simple imagery and familiar objects make it an subtle and sensitive way to talk to nursery and EYFS classes about difference, identity and friendship.

Mandy Is Still a Banana by Zoe Arena & Amy Evans

Extra Yarn by Mac BarnettExtra Yarn by Mac Barnett.
Goldilocks and the Three Crocodiles by Michael RosenGoldilocks and the Three Crocodiles by Michael Rosen.
The Going to Bed Book by Sandra BoyntonThe Going to Bed Book by Sandra Boynton.

This Book is Too Quiet! – You add the noise… by Cristina Cubells, illustrated by Joana Casals

Cristina Cubells and Joana Casals invite children to supply the sound effects in this highly innovative and playful book for 4-8 year olds. Words, shapes, and symbols hint at noises from raindrops to fireworks, while some scenes leave plenty of room for developing imagination. Kitchens, storms, and bustling streets all come alive as child readers and adults can experiment with voices and sound. With its clever mix of text and lively illustration, the book turns reading into an infectious performance and encourages children to transform silence into stories full of evocative sounds. Highly recommendd for EYFS and KS1.

This Book is Too Quiet! - You add the noise… by Cristina Cubells, illustrated by Joana Casals

Blown Away by Rob BiddulphBlown Away by Rob Biddulph.
Meg and Mog by Helen Nicoll, Jan PienkowskiMeg and Mog by Helen Nicoll, Jan Pienkowski.
Monkey and Me by Emily GravettMonkey and Me by Emily Gravett.

It’s Really, Really Not Fair by Angie Morgan

Polly wants to fly with pigeons, climb mountains and paint the house, but her mum always says no. Each time Polly protests loudly, in ways young children will relate to, until one day she spots another child making an even bigger fuss, and this sudden and unexpected realisation gives her pause. Angie Morgan offers a warm and funny look at fairness and frustration in family settings. Echoing themes from her earlier books Small Stanley’s Big Book of Scary Stuff and I Really, Really Don’t Like Parties, it is perfect for discussion with children aged 3+ in nursery and EYFS, and ideal for reading aloud.

It's Really, Really Not Fair by Angie Morgan

The Amazing Mrs Pepperpot by Alf ProysenThe Amazing Mrs Pepperpot by Alf Proysen.
In the Night Kitchen by Maurice SendakIn the Night Kitchen by Maurice Sendak.
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, what Do You See? by Bill MartinBrown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr and Eric Carle.

How to Catch an Idea by Forest Xiao

A curious girl wants to know where ideas come from, so she goes looking. Along the way, she meets a mathematician, a farmer, and even a stork, each with a surprising answer. Bright, playful illustrations pull readers in, while the story gently opens the door to big thoughts about imagination and creativity. The kind of book that invites questions: the more it’s read, the more it reveals. It’s ideal for sparking thoughtful chats 0-5 year olds in nursery and EYFS. Highly recommended.

How to Catch an Idea by Forest Xiao

The Queen's Hat by Steve AntonyThe Queen’s Hat by Steve Antony.
Dear Zoo by Rod CampbellDear Zoo by Rod Campbell.
Dig, Dig, Digging by Margaret MayoDig, Dig, Digging by Margaret Mayo.

Old Oak and Little Acorn by Elena Mannion

Little Acorn clings to Old Oak, not wanting to leave the tree he thinks of as his father. But one day a gust of wind carries Little Acorn into a new world of squirrels, hedgerows, moles, new life and the future of the countryside. Old Oak and Little Acorn is a beautiful picture book to read to EYFS, or for KS1 children to tackle independently. A large format hardback with evocative double-page illustrations by Erin Brown, it’s a great resource to read in and discuss forest schools and outdoor classrooms. A wonderful companion story to ‘The Happy Hedgerow’.

Old Oak and Little Acorn by Elena Mannion

The Gruffalo by Julia DonaldsonThe Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson.
Millions of Cats by Wanda GagMillions of Cats by Wanda Gag.
Room on the Broom by Julia DonaldsonRoom on the Broom by Julia Donaldson.

Super Goat Girl by Tracey Baptiste, illustrated by Dapo Adeola

Super Goat Girl arrives at superhero school, only to find her classmates aren’t sure what to think of her rather unusual talents. But when chaos erupts, from alien ropes to a gorilla on the loose, she jumps in to save the day, proving her worth in unexpected ways. Little by little, her classmates see that every superpower counts. Tracey Baptiste pens the story, with bright and lively illustrations from award-winning Dapo Adeola. Exploring themes of shyness, teamwork and resilience, Super Goat Girl is highly recommended. It’s a great book to discuss with EYFS children.

Super Goat Girl by Tracey Baptiste, illustrated by Dapo Adeola

The Story of the Little Mole who Knew it was None of His Business by Werner Holzwarth, Wolf ErlbruchThe Story of the Little Mole who Knew it was None of His Business by Werner Holzwarth and Wolf Erlbruch.
Click, Clack, Moo by Doreen Cronin, Betsy LewinClick, Clack, Moo by Doreen Cronin, Betsy Lewin.
Madeline by Ludwig BemelmansMadeline by Ludwig Bemelmans.

Snarky Sharky by Bethan Clarke, illustrated by Nikolas Ilic

A magnificently sarcastic shark with funky eyebrows gets fed up with his reef-mates and sets off to find a new home – one that appreciates just how fabulous he is. Narrated in his own super confident voice and packed with ocean puns to appeal to parents, this picture book for 3-6 year olds delivers big laughs as Shark meets a series of other ocean creatures. Bright, cartoon-style illustrations match the energy of the text, while the story gently nudges readers to think about pride, community, and the value of not taking yourself too seriously. It’s an absolute winner as a bedtime story or EYFS read-aloud. Highly recommended!

Snarky Sharky by Bethan Clarke, illustrated by Nikolas Ilic

Peek-A Who? (Lift the Flap Books, Interactive Books for Kids, Interactive Read Aloud Books) by Nina LadenPeek-A Who? by Nina Laden.
Avocado Baby by John BurninghamAvocado Baby by John Burningham.
Jack and the Flumflum Tree by Julia DonaldsonJack and the Flumflum Tree by Julia Donaldson.

Noah’s New Home by Zeshan Akhter, illustrated by Nabila Adani

Noah’s New Home by Zeshan Akhter follows a young refugee, Noah, as he adapts to life in a new country. While settling in, memories of his past and family resurface, and a fireworks display brings both joy and sorrow. With the support of his loved ones, Noah begins to heal. The book thoughtfully explores displacement, trauma, and the strength of community, beautifully brought to life through Nabila Adani’s expressive illustrations. Memorable and powerful, It’s ideal for discussion in EYFS classrooms.

Noah's New Home by Zeshan Akhter, illustrated by Nabila Adani

I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato by Lauren ChildI Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato by Lauren Child.
Polar Bear, Polar Bear, what Do You Hear? by Bill MartinPolar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear? by Bill Martin Jr and Eric Carle.
Jim by Hilaire BellocJim by Hilaire Belloc.

The Tantrum by Louie Stowell and Isobel Lundie

This lively and engaging picture book introduces young readers to the world of theatre through the story of Bill Bear, who stages plays in a woodland theatre. When a performance goes awry, Bill’s spectacular tantrum becomes the central drama. Structured like a play, the book will help children aged 3-6 understand big emotions while sparking an interest in theatre and Shakespeare. It’s ideal for reading aloud and discussing with EYFS classes. Highly recommended.

The Tantrum by Louie Stowell and Isobel Lundie

Olivia by Ian FalconerOlivia by Ian Falconer.
The Lorax by Dr. SeussThe Lorax by Dr. Seuss.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric CarleThe Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle.

Little Rhino Lost by Candy Gourlay and Jamie Bauza

When Maya finds a lost baby rhino roaming the city, she knows he doesn’t belong among the concrete and cars. With no grassy fields in sight, she does the only thing she can – she builds a little jungle in her home. As word spreads, her neighbours join in, transforming their grey streets into a greener, wilder place. A heartwarming tale about kindness, community, and the magic of small changes making a big difference. Highly recommended for EYFS.

Little Rhino Lost by Candy Gourlay

Shark In The Park by Nick SharrattShark In The Park by Nick Sharratt.
Little Mouse's Big Book of Fears by Emily GravettLittle Mouse’s Big Book of Fears by Emily Gravett.
Elephant and the Bad Baby by Elfrida VipontElephant and the Bad Baby by Elfrida Vipont.

The Really Beautiful Thing by Frances Tosdevin

Squirrel gives up everything – his belongings, home, even friendships – for something he’s desperate to have but doesn’t truly understand. When the prize turns out to be worthless, he’s left to reckon with the price he’s paid. This picture book gently explores themes of consumerism and the importance of relationships, wrapping it all up in a relatable, thought-provoking tale. It’s perfect for sharing with EYFS children to spark conversations about what really matters in life.

The Really Beautiful Thing by Frances Tosdevin

The Story of Babar by Jean de BrunhoffThe Story of Babar by Jean de Brunhoff.
Curious George Makes Pancakes (with Bonus Stickers and Audio) by Hans Augusto ReyCurious George Makes Pancakes by Hans Augusto Rey.
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack KeatsThe Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats.

Where to Hide a Star by Oliver Jeffers

Where to Hide a Star by Oliver Jeffers marks the 20th anniversary of his beloved Boy series, reuniting familiar characters while introducing a new one. Aimed at children aged 3+, this absorbing picture book follows the Boy’s quest to find his missing star. Parents and EYFS teachers will appreciate themes of friendship, the sense of freedom and adventure, and the use of vivid imagination. Highly recommended.

Where to Hide a Star by Oliver Jeffers

The Snowman by Raymond BriggsThe Snowman by Raymond Briggs.
Where's Spot? by Eric HillWhere’s Spot? by Eric Hill.
There was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly by Pam Adams, Child's Play (FirmThere was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly by Pam Adams.

The Tantrum: A book about meltdowns and bawling bards! by Louie Stowell and Isobel Lundie

This lively and engaging picture book introduces young readers to the world of theatre through the story of Bill Bear, who stages plays in a woodland theatre. When a performance goes awry, Bill’s spectacular tantrum becomes the central drama. Structured like a play, the book will help children aged 3-6 understand big emotions while sparking an interest in theatre and Shakespeare. It’s ideal for reading aloud and discussing with EYFS classes. Highly recommended.

The Tantrum: A book about meltdowns and bawling bards! by Louie Stowell and Isobel Lundie

The Boy and the Gorilla by Jackie Azúa KramerThe Boy and the Gorilla by Jackie Azúa Kramer.
Peepo! by Janet Ahlberg, Allan AhlbergPeepo! by Janet Ahlberg and Allan Ahlberg.
Lost and Found by Oliver JeffersLost and Found by Oliver Jeffers.

Sing Like A Whale by Moira Butterfield and Gwen Millward

In this beautifully illustrated picture book, twelve animals show younger readers what they sound like and how they talk to each other. With catchy onomatopoeic words, each creature asks the reader: “Can you do the same? Let’s hear! Ideal for reading with a group as a call or response, expect to hear whole classrooms squeaking, roaring, a-wooing and singing. Great fun for EYFS storytime.

Sing Like A Whale by Moira Butterfield and Gwen Millward

Whatever Next! by Jill MurphyWhatever Next! by Jill Murphy.
Hoot Owl, Master of Disguise by Sean TaylorHoot Owl, Master of Disguise by Sean Taylor.
If You Take a Pencil by Fulvio TestaIf You Take a Pencil by Fulvio Testa.

EYFS Book Shelf Poster

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EYFS Bookshelf Poster


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Books for EYFS – what titles to recommend to children

Selecting books for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) involves choosing engaging and interactive titles that cater to the developmental needs of young children. Picture books with vibrant illustrations, simple narratives, and opportunities for interaction are ideal. Consider classics like “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle, which introduces counting and days of the week, or “Dear Zoo” by Rod Campbell, offering a fun exploration of animals. Additionally, books like “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle support language development and colour recognition. Focus on titles that encourage participation, stimulate curiosity, and lay the foundation for a lifelong love of reading.

What does the National Curriculum say about reading in EYFS?

The National Curriculum emphasises the crucial role of reading in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), recognising it as a foundational skill for a child’s overall development. The curriculum highlights the importance of creating a rich literacy environment that fosters a love for reading. In EYFS, children are encouraged to listen actively, engage with a variety of stories, rhymes, and poems, and develop early phonics awareness. The focus is on building language skills, comprehension, and communication through enjoyable and interactive reading experiences. The National Curriculum encourages educators to choose diverse and inclusive literature, ensuring that children are exposed to a broad range of cultures and perspectives from an early age. The goal is to lay a strong foundation for literacy skills that will support children’s learning across all subjects as they progress through their education.

How to read picture books with children aged 5 and under

Reading picture books with children aged 5 and under involves creating a captivating and interactive experience that nurtures their early literacy skills. Start by engaging them in a conversation about the book’s cover, title, and illustrations. Encourage them to predict what the story might be about. During the reading, use expressive voices, varying tones, and animated facial expressions to bring characters and events to life. Pause occasionally to ask open-ended questions, encouraging them to share their thoughts and make connections to their own experiences. Explore the illustrations together, pointing out details and asking them to describe what they see. After reading, discuss the story, characters, and their favourite parts. Foster a love for reading by making it a special time together, reinforcing positive associations with books and storytelling.

This EYFS picture book list is reviewed regularly and shaped by our curation panel, including early years specialists, teachers and librarians. It brings together a wide spread of styles – wordless books, rhymes, counting stories and traditional tales – to support talk, vocabulary and reading for pleasure. For related lists, visit our primary school booklist hub.

Nursery & EYFS reading resources

  • Preschool reading list – recommended picture books and stories for under-5s, ideal for nursery age children.
  • BBC Tiny Happy People – early language and literacy activities for babies and toddlers, with rhymes, simple stories and tips to develop communication skills at home.
  • Preparing for Literacy (EEF) – Education Endowment Foundation guidance (PDF) with evidence-based recommendations to build children’s early language, phonological awareness and love of stories in the EYFS.
  • Nursery rhymes and songs – BBC School Radio – audio collections of traditional nursery rhymes, action songs and listening games to enrich vocabulary and listening skills in the early years.

For more picture books for preschool and EYFS children, see our list of Books for Bedtime.

For more advanced books for your child, why not try our books for KS1 lists?



About Tom Tolkien

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Tom Tolkien is a highly qualified (BA Hons, PGCE, QTS) children's literature expert and teacher with over 25 years of experience. He has led inset courses, developed curriculum materials, spoken at conferences, advised on longlisting for several international children's literature literature awards and written for educational publishers including contributing to a BETT award-nominated app. Social profiles: X | Linkedin

This booklist was last updated on May 12th, 2026 and first published in 2018.