As parents, we all want to give our children the best start in life, and one of the most powerful ways to do this is through books. At age 4, your child is at a magical stage of development – their imagination is blossoming, their vocabulary is expanding rapidly, and they’re beginning to understand more complex stories and concepts. Reading to your 4 year old doesn’t just create precious bonding moments; it lays the foundation for literacy, empathy, and a lifelong love of learning.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), reading aloud to young children stimulates brain development and strengthens parent-child relationships. While some 4 year olds may be showing early reading skills, most are still in the pre-reading stage, where they’re learning crucial skills like how stories work, how to follow a narrative, and how to connect words with pictures.
In this comprehensive list, I’ve curated 20+ of the best books for 4 year olds, based on my experience with my two wonderful boys (who are both now well beyond this age) and on extensive research into what makes a great children’s book. I’ve also included bonus sections on coloring books and activity books that will further engage your child’s creativity and learning.
So, led by the saying “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader”, let’s dive into these wonderful books that will captivate your 4 year old’s imagination, teach valuable life lessons, and create memories that will last a lifetime:
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Table of Contents
1. The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt
Duncan just wants to color, but when he opens his box of crayons, he finds only letters! Each crayon has written a note explaining why they’ve quit. Red feels overworked coloring fire engines and apples. Purple is tired of staying inside the lines. Black wants to be more than just an outline. This hilarious story follows Duncan as he tries to appease his crayons and bring color back to his world.
What I Love About This Book
This book makes my boys laugh out loud every single time! I appreciate how it cleverly teaches children about feelings, compromise, and creative problem-solving. The personification of the crayons gives children a new perspective on everyday objects and encourages them to think outside the box (or crayon box, in this case!).
2. Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang
Jim Panzee wakes up in a terrible mood, but he insists he’s not grumpy. As his jungle friends try various ways to cheer him up, Jim becomes increasingly frustrated. Through Jim’s journey, children learn an important lesson – sometimes it’s okay to just feel your feelings, even the grumpy ones.
What I Love About This Book
As a parent, I find this book invaluable for teaching emotional intelligence. It beautifully illustrates that we don’t always need to “fix” our feelings – sometimes we just need to acknowledge them. The expressive illustrations perfectly capture Jim’s grumpiness in a way that resonates with children who often struggle to identify and express their emotions.
3. Oaklet Makes Friends by Daniela Andreevska
Oaklet the curious little raccoon goes on his first adventure in the magical forest. He is excited to meet Bumpy the sweet hedgehog and Rusty the friendly fox. Together, the three little friends overcome a series of challenges which shows them the power of friendship and working together. With charming illustrations and simple yet profound text, this story teaches children kindness, courage, and empathy.
What I Love About This Book
When I wrote this book, I was inspired by my younger son Jude’s endless adventures with his stuffed raccoon Oaklet. I wanted to use this opportunity to teach my children as well as others that while making friends might take some effort, it’s always worth it in the end. After all, helping each other is the greatest adventure of all.
4. The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
When Taylor’s magnificent block tower crashes down, various animal friends offer suggestions to help. Bear encourages Taylor to shout, Chicken wants to talk it through, and Hyena thinks it’s funny. But Taylor doesn’t want any of that – until Rabbit comes along. Rabbit doesn’t say anything; Rabbit just listens. This simple, yet profound story showcases the power of presence and genuine listening, making this one of the must-read books for 4 year olds.
What I Love About This Book
This book touches my heart every time I read it to my kids. In our busy, solution-focused world, it reminds both children and adults about the healing power of simply being there for someone. I’ve used this book numerous times to help my children understand how to be a good friend during difficult moments.
5. Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty
Young Ada Marie Twist is bursting with curiosity about the world around her. She conducts experiments, asks endless questions, and seeks to understand why things are the way they are. Even when her experiments lead to chaos, Ada’s parents support her scientific endeavors, teaching children that persistence, curiosity, and asking “why” are some of the most valuable traits.
What I Love About This Book
As a parent who values education, I appreciate how this book champions curiosity and scientific thinking in a way that’s accessible and exciting for young children. The fact that Ada is a girl scientist provides important representation that challenges gender stereotypes. The rhythmic text makes this a joy to read aloud, too!
6. We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins
Penelope Rex is nervous about her first day of school, especially since she’s a T-Rex and her classmates are all… children! Despite her best intentions, Penelope keeps eating her classmates (and spitting them out, of course). She struggles to make friends until she learns an important lesson about empathy when the class goldfish gives her a taste of her own medicine. How could this not be one of the best books for 4 year olds?!
What I Love About This Book
This book has my children in stitches every time we read it! Beyond the humor, I value how it teaches empathy through a silly premise. The message that we should treat others how we want to be treated comes through clearly without ever feeling preachy. It’s the perfect book for 4 year olds who are learning to navigate friendships and understand others’ feelings.
7. The World Needs More Purple People by Kristen Bell and Benjamin Hart
This vibrant picture book introduces the concept of being a purple person – someone who celebrates what makes them unique while finding common ground with others. Through simple, playful text, children learn that purple people ask great questions, laugh a lot, use their voice, work hard, and bring people together. That’s why this is one of the best books recommended for 4 year olds.
What I Love About This Book
In today’s world, I appreciate how this book encourages unity while still celebrating individuality. The message that we can find common ground despite our differences is presented in a way that 4 year olds can understand and embrace. The bright, energetic illustrations capture children’s attention and reinforce the positive message.
8. The Pout-Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen
Mr. Fish has a constant pout on his face, claiming “I’m a pout-pout fish with a pout-pout face, so I spread the dreary-wearies all over the place.” His ocean friends try to encourage him to smile, but nothing works until a new fish comes along and shows him that perhaps he’s not a pout-pout fish after all, but a kiss-kiss fish who should be spreading cheery-cheeries!
What I Love About This Book
The rhythmic, repetitive text makes this a joy to read aloud, and my children love joining in on the repeated phrases. Beyond the catchy rhythm, I appreciate how this book teaches children that sometimes our perspective needs to change – what Mr. Fish saw as a permanent pout was actually perfectly designed for spreading joy through kisses.
9. Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry
This heartwarming story follows young Zuri, who has magnificent, beautiful hair that has a mind of its own! When a special occasion arises and her mother isn’t available to help style her hair, Zuri’s father steps up to the challenge. Despite his inexperience, he’s determined to give Zuri the perfect hairstyle, and together they navigate the world of brushes, hair products, and tutorials, making this one of the really cool books for 4 year olds, especially girls.
What I Love About This Book
This book beautifully celebrates natural hair, father-daughter relationships, and the importance of self-confidence. I appreciate how it represents diverse families and shows a loving, involved father figure. The illustrations are gorgeous and the message about embracing your natural beauty is one that all children benefit from hearing.
Related: How to Raise a Confident Child: Expert Roundup
10. Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin
Did you know that dragons love tacos? They love them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They love them with chicken and beef, and they love them with lettuce and tomatoes. There’s just one thing to remember: Dragons hate spicy salsa! When a boy throws a taco party for dragons, hilarity ensues when a bit of spicy salsa accidentally makes its way into the tacos.
What I Love About This Book
My children request this book constantly because of its silly premise and unexpected twists. I love the absurdity and humor that captivate 4 year olds’ attention, while subtly teaching them about cause and effect and the importance of following directions. The illustrations are vibrant and detailed, giving children plenty to look at and discuss beyond the text.
11. The Pigeon Has to Go to School! by Mo Willems
The infamous Pigeon is back, and this time he’s facing a new challenge: School! Pigeon isn’t sure he’s ready for this big step. What if he doesn’t like it? What if the teacher doesn’t like him? What if he learns too much and his head explodes?! Through Pigeon’s dramatic worries, children explore common anxieties about starting school, which makes this one of the truly great books for 4 year olds.
What I Love About This Book
Mo Willems’ Pigeon series is beloved in our house, and this installment is particularly valuable for addressing school anxieties. I appreciate how the book validates children’s legitimate concerns about new experiences while gently reassuring them. The simple, yet expressive illustrations perfectly capture Pigeon’s emotions, helping children identify and process their own feelings about school.
12. The Berenstain Bears and the Trouble with Friends by Stan and Jan Berenstain
When Sister Bear meets her new neighbor, Lizzy Bruin, they seem like perfect playmates. But soon their friendship is tested by disagreements over toys, games, and taking turns. With Mama Bear’s guidance, Sister Bear learns important lessons about sharing, compromise, and resolving conflicts with friends.
What I Love About This Book
The Berenstain Bears books have been favorites since my own childhood, and I love sharing them with my children. This particular story addresses friendship conflicts that are extremely relevant to 4 year olds. I appreciate how it provides practical strategies for resolving disagreements and shows that good friendships require effort and understanding.
13. How to Catch a Star by Oliver Jeffers
A little boy loves stars so much that he decides to catch one of his very own. He tries jumping up to reach a star, using a life preserver as a lasso, and even plans to use his rocket ship (but then realizes it’s out of fuel). After waiting for hours for a star to fall, he eventually finds one within reach – in the most unexpected place. It’s easy to see why this is one of the good books for 4 year olds.
What I Love About This Book
Oliver Jeffers creates magical stories that spark imagination, and this one is particularly special. I love how it encourages children to dream big and persevere in pursuing their goals, even when they face obstacles. The simple yet evocative illustrations create a dreamy, wondrous atmosphere that perfectly complements the story of determination and discovery.
15. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
This book follows the journey of a tiny caterpillar as he eats his way through an increasing amount of food before spinning a cocoon and emerging as a beautiful butterfly. With its distinctive collage illustrations and clever die-cut pages, this classic book introduces concepts of counting, days of the week, foods, and the life cycle of a butterfly, making it one of the most popular book recommendations for 4 year olds.
What I Love About This Book
This timeless classic, being one of the absolutely top rated books for 4 year olds, has captivated generations of children, including my own. I appreciate how it combines science education with counting practice in a way that never feels didactic. The tactile experience of putting their little fingers through the holes where the caterpillar has eaten makes this an interactive reading experience that young children absolutely love.
16. The Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson
A tiny snail with big dreams hitches a ride on a whale’s tail to travel the world. Together they explore icebergs, mountains, tropical islands, and the deep ocean. When the whale becomes beached, the small snail must find a way to save her enormous friend, proving that even the smallest creature can make a big difference. The plot makes this one of the must-have books for 4 year olds.
What I Love About This Book
Julia Donaldson’s rhyming text is always a delight to read aloud, and this story is particularly special. I love how it teaches children about different habitats around the world while delivering a powerful message about courage and how size doesn’t determine one’s ability to help others. The beautiful illustrations transport young readers to faraway places, expanding their understanding of our diverse planet.
17. Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson
A kind witch and her cat are flying on their broomstick when the wind blows away the witch’s hat, bow, and wand. Three helpful animals find these items and ask for a ride on the broom in return. The witch happily agrees, but is there room on the broom for so many friends? When a hungry dragon appears, the witch’s new friends might just save the day.
What I Love About This Book
This is another Julia Donaldson masterpiece that my children request again and again. Honestly, in my opinion, all her stories rank among the best books for 4 year olds – I just love her writing style! In Room on the Broom specifically, I adore how it promotes kindness, generosity, and the idea that helping others often leads to them helping you when you need it most. The rhythmic text makes it a joy to read aloud, and the slightly spooky (but not scary) elements appeal perfectly to 4 year olds’ developing sense of adventure.
18. Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin
Pete the Cat walks down the street in his brand new white shoes. Along the way, he steps in different colored substances that change his shoes from white to red to blue to brown. But does Pete cry? Goodness, no! He keeps walking along and singing his song because “it’s all good.” This rhythmic story teaches children to stay positive no matter what happens.
What I Love About This Book
Pete the Cat’s positive attitude is contagious! I appreciate how this book teaches resilience and adaptability through a character who doesn’t let life’s little setbacks get him down. The catchy refrain invites children to join in, making this an interactive reading experience. The color-changing shoes also provide a great opportunity to practice color recognition with 4 year olds.
19. Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel
This classic easy reader contains five simple stories about the friendship between Frog and Toad. From swimming through finding lost buttons to telling stories, these two friends navigate everyday adventures with humor and heart. Their distinct personalities – Frog being more patient and optimistic, and Toad being more grumpy and cautious – create a dynamic that children can relate to and learn from, which makes this one of the best books for 4 year olds.
What I Love About This Book
Though technically an early reader, Frog and Toad stories make wonderful read-alouds for 4 year olds. I cherish how these gentle tales model healthy friendship, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. The stories are perfectly paced for young listeners, with enough detail to engage but not overwhelm. Plus, the subtle humor appeals to both children and adults, making these stories enjoyable for everyone.
20. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
When Max misbehaves and is sent to his room without supper, an extraordinary adventure begins. His room transforms into a forest, and he sails to the land of the Wild Things, where he becomes king. After “wild rumpus” fun with the creatures, Max becomes homesick for where someone loves him most of all, and returns to find his supper waiting – still hot.
What I Love About This Book
This timeless classic resonates with 4 year olds who are learning to manage big emotions. I appreciate how it acknowledges children’s anger and imagination while reassuring them that parental love remains constant even after discipline. The dreamy illustrations gradually expand and then contract with the story, creating a visual journey that enhances the emotional one.
21. Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney
Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare engage in a sweet competition to express how much they love each other. As Little Nutbrown Hare stretches his arms wide, hops as high as he can, and measures his love to the horizon, Big Nutbrown Hare always has a way to show that his love is even bigger – all the way to the moon and back.
What I Love About This Book
This gentle bedtime story creates the perfect opportunity to express love to your child at the end of the day. I adore how it portrays the parent-child relationship through the sweet rabbit characters. The beautifully illustrated nature scenes and the tender message make this a perfect wind-down book that reassures children of their parents’ boundless love.
22. Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann
As a zookeeper makes his rounds saying goodnight to all the animals, a mischievous gorilla steals his keys and follows behind, unlocking each cage. Soon, a parade of animals is quietly following the unsuspecting zookeeper home. With minimal text and expressive illustrations, children can read the story through the pictures, making this an excellent book for developing narrative skills.
What I Love About This Book
This nearly wordless picture book encourages children to tell the story themselves, making each reading experience unique. I love how it invites children to notice small details in the illustrations and predict what might happen next. The gentle humor appeals perfectly to 4 year olds, and the opportunity to make animal sounds makes this an engaging, interactive read.
Bonus 1: 5 Best Coloring Books for 4 Year Olds
While reading is crucial for building a range of skills and emotions, coloring too is a wonderful activity for 4 year olds that helps develop fine motor skills, encourages creativity, and builds focus and concentration. Using these resources can be a great addition to your parenting style to develop crucial skills for your kid.
Here are 5 excellent coloring books that are perfect for this age group:
1. Unicorns, Rainbows, Mermaids and More: Coloring Book for Kids Ages 4-8
This magical coloring book features 50 individual unicorn designs with detailed backgrounds that give children plenty of creative freedom. The single-sided pages prevent color bleed-through, making this perfect for using with various coloring tools. The designs are sized appropriately for 4 year olds’ developing motor skills.
2. My First Big Book of Coloring by Little Bee Books
With over 100 pages of simple, bold-lined illustrations featuring animals, vehicles, and everyday objects, this coloring book is ideal for young artists. The thick, sturdy pages stand up to enthusiastic coloring, and the large pictures with minimal details are perfect for little hands still working on staying within the lines.
3. Melissa & Doug Water Wow! Activity Books
These innovative reusable coloring books use a water pen to reveal colors on the page. Children simply fill the included pen with water and color the white reusable pages to see hidden colors and pictures appear. When the pages dry, they return to white, ready to be colored again! These mess-free books are perfect for travel and developing proper pen grip.
- 3-PACK PAINTING ACTIVITY BOOKS: The On-the-Go Water Wow! Reusable Water-Reveal Activity Pads feature a 3-pack of jungle-…
- 4 REUSABLE WHITE PAGES: Our activity coloring books with water pen for kids each feature 4 reusable white pages that inc…
- CHUNKY-SIZED PEN: These Melissa & Doug no-mess coloring books each come with a chunky-sized water pen that allows easy f…
4. Crayola Color Wonder Mess-Free Coloring Pad and Markers
This innovative coloring set features special markers that only color on the designated pages, not on skin, furniture, or walls! The Color Wonder technology creates a magical coloring experience while giving parents peace of mind. The themed coloring pages feature popular characters that appeal to 4 year olds.
- Crayola Color Wonder pad: refill your color Wonder collection with 30 mess free coloring pages in one convenient pad. (P…
- Mess free coloring: no mess markers only show color on specially formulated color Wonder paper, not on skin, clothing, o…
- Washable marker alternative: give your little one a bit more practice coloring, before handing them a box of Crayola was…
5. Dinosaur Coloring Book for Kids Ages 4-8
Perfect for dinosaur enthusiasts, this coloring book features a variety of prehistoric creatures with simple outlines that are easy for young children to color. Each page contains a single dinosaur with its name, helping children learn dinosaur species while they color. The varying difficulty levels allow the book to grow with your child’s coloring skills.
Bonus 2: 5 Best Activity Books for 4 Year Olds
Activity books provide structured play that develops crucial skills for school readiness.
Here are 5 exceptional activity books that will engage and educate your 4 year old:
1. My First Learn to Write Workbook by Crystal Radke
This top-selling activity book helps children develop the fine motor control needed for writing. Through fun exercises like tracing straight lines, curves, and eventually letters and numbers, children build the foundation for handwriting success. The progression from simple to more complex tasks keeps children engaged and builds confidence.
2. Highlights Preschool Big Fun Workbook
Created by childhood education experts, this comprehensive workbook includes a variety of activities that develop key skills like scissor control, letter recognition, counting, and problem-solving. The colorful pages and stickers make learning feel like play, and the achievement certificate celebrates your child’s accomplishments.
3. School Zone Big Preschool Workbook
This bestselling workbook covers a wide range of skills including colors, shapes, numbers, letters, and basic concepts. With over 300 activities, it provides comprehensive preparation for kindergarten. The colorful design and variety of exercises keep children engaged, while the clear instructions make it easy for parents to guide their learning.
4. Paint by Sticker Kids: Zoo Animals
This innovative sticker book gives children the satisfaction of creating a painting by placing numbered stickers in the corresponding spaces. Each page creates a vibrant animal picture and helps develop number recognition, fine motor skills, and focus. The no-mess format makes this a perfect activity for travel or restaurants.
5. Scissor Skills Preschool Activity Book for Kids
Developing scissor skills is crucial for kindergarten readiness, and this specialized workbook makes cutting practice fun and engaging. Children progress from simple straight lines to more complex curved and zigzag patterns. The thick, high-quality paper is designed specifically for little hands learning to use scissors.
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Final Thoughts
Reading is one of the greatest gifts we can give our children. The reading books, coloring books, and activity books recommended as the best books for 4 year olds in this guide will not only entertain your child but will also build essential skills and create treasured memories.
Remember that every child develops at their own pace, so choose books that align with your child’s interests and abilities. Some 4 year olds might be ready for longer stories with fewer pictures, while others may still prefer simpler books with more illustrations. The key is to make reading a joyful, consistent part of your daily routine.
I’d love to hear about your and your child’s favorite books! What titles have captured your 4 year old’s imagination? Are there any books they request night after night, or books they would happily leave on the shelf? Sharing our experiences helps us all become better parents and find new treasures to explore with our children.
