As this week is National Storytelling week, I thought I would collate a list of the best bedtime stories to read to children. Although some of the stories will be recent releases others will be classic picture books. So, if you feel like you are in need of a bit of inspiration, make sure to keep reading! Also, make sure to check out my other posts, for example, on wordless picture books.
Why is this book a great bedtime story to read to kids?
Firstly, this book is hilarious. Therefore, it is sure to make children laugh and is something that they will be able to relate to. It touches on the topic of friendship, the importance of feeling valued. Also, I am sure that they will be amused by the crayons’ anger.
What is this picture book about?
A little boy called Duncan goes to his pencil case to use his crayons. But when Duncan opens up his pencil case he finds a pile of letters. All of the crayons are unhappy. One of the crayons feels naked, another is upset that Duncan can’t colour between the lines and another that it is hardly used! So, it will have you all laughing!
Book about nature
Secondly, are you looking to read children a beautiful bedtime book about nature? Moon by Britta Teckentrup is a beautiful peek through books about animals in the moonlight. Together you will visit turtles, puffins and parrots. It is a good way to talk to children about nocturnal creatures and what animals get up to at night time. Also, as a way to teach them that there is no need to be afraid of the dark. Indeed, the stunning illustrations speak for themselves. The peek through book adds to the intrigue and excitement of what is on the next pages! It is the ultimate bedtime story to read this week!
A classic picture book
Thirdly, would you like a to know a secret? I am in my 30s and still own my copy of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. In fact, my friends have started having kids and guess what I buy them? You’ve guessed it! This colourful illustrated book follows a caterpillar. It eats it’s way through lollipops, salami, apples and much more. But then transforms into a beautiful butterfly! In other words, they are not only listening to a great story but also learning.
Why it is such a good bedtime story for kids
Surely you already know the answer to this question? Nevertheless, sometimes we all need a gentle reminder! This colourful illustrated book follows a caterpillar. It eats it’s way through lollipops, salami, apples and much more. But then transforms into a beautiful butterfly! In other words, they are not only listening to a great story but also learning. Furthermore, the colours are stunning, the children will laugh as the caterpillar doesn’t seem to stop eating. Nevertheless, sometimes we all need a gentle reminder!
Diverse book and bedtime story for children
Fourthly, is Mrs Noah’s Garden. You might be familiar with Mrs Noah’s pockets, the first book about Mrs Noah. But if not, not to worry, click here! Following their journey in the ark, Mrs Noah creates a garden. After that, she plants seeds and along with children and her animal friends creates a stunning garden. Therefore, another bedtime read about the beauty of nature.
Bedtime story about families
Fifthly, In Every House on Every Street is one of my favourite bedtime stories to read. It is a story about a family in their home. It follows their day to day life. In other words, everything from tantrums, to helping one another to baking together. A book that takes a look inside family life and creates marvel and wonder about what happens inside every house on every street. Furthermore, there is wonderful representation in this book too, characters with disabilities to characters of colour.
Bedtime stories to read: Picture Book of the Year (The Wordery)
My sixth choice is the recently named picture book of the year by The Wordery, this fantastic book packs a punch. Marianne is often seen digging in the sand but not for just anything. Dinosaur bones! Until one night, she hopes and dreams that her dinosaur will come to life. And guess what? It does! Together they adventure together through the night. Along the way, others join her and dig with her on the beach. It is a lovely bedtime story for kids. The illustrations are wonderful too. In other words, a greatly deserving winner of Picture Book of the Year.
Classic bedtime story
My seventh choice is another classic picture book. Funnybones by Janet and Allan Ahlberg was one of my favourite bedtimes stories to read or be read as a kid. However, these skeletons are not scary. But are guaranteed to make your children laugh. From playing on the swings, to putting dog back together wrongly to trying unsuccessfully to find someone to frighten. Certainly, this picture book will bring a smile to your face.
Finally, my last choice is Owl Babies. Three baby owls wake up and realise that their mum has gone. But time passes and they become worried and start to miss her. Therefore, this wonderful story is a reassuring tale and will give comfort to children if they worry about being left alone. Equally so, it is an endearing story with relatable characters.
So, to sum up, let me know how you get on with these bedtimes stories to read. What did you read this week? Regardless of what you have or haven’t read, please let me know your favourites.
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