14 wonderful books about animals for kids: Stories and facts they’ll love
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If your kids are anything like mine, animals spark their curiosity in the best way.
Over the years, we’ve discovered so many wonderful books about animals – some filled with fascinating facts, others with gentle stories that open the door to big conversations.
In this list, I’ve gathered our favorite animal-themed books for kids of different ages, from silly and imaginative to heartfelt and educational.
These are the books we come back to again and again – the ones that make us laugh, inspire pretend play, or quietly stick with us long after we close the cover.
I hope they bring the same spark of curiosity and connection to your home, too.
This month, the theme for our book list is Animals. The list includes lovely stories with animal main characters and non-fiction books about animals, plus other stories to explore with your kids in September.
1 – Madeline Finn and the Library Dog (by Lisa Papp) | 3-7 years
This gentle, reassuring story follows a little girl who struggles with reading until she meets a calm, kind library dog who helps her build confidence.
It’s a beautiful way to show kids that learning takes time, and support makes all the difference.
2 – Rescue and Jessica: A Life-Changing Friendship (by Jessica Kensky and Patrick Downes) | 6-8 years
Based on a true story, this book tells the powerful journey of a girl and her service dog as they adapt to a new life together.
It’s heartfelt, honest, and opens up great conversations about resilience, support, and friendship.
3 – Paddington (by Michael Bond) | 4-8 years
This classic story introduces a small bear with a big heart who finds himself in one hilarious situation after another. It’s sweet, charming, and always brings a smile – perfect for read-aloud moments filled with giggles.
4 – Podkin One-Ear (by Kieran Larwood) | 8-11 years
This fantasy adventure follows a young rabbit who unexpectedly becomes a hero.
It’s exciting, beautifully written, and filled with bravery and heart, great for older kids who enjoy animal stories with depth and action.
5 – Warriors #1: Into the Wild (by Erin Hunter) | 8-11 years
This gripping series opener introduces a world of wild cat clans, full of loyalty, courage, and survival.
It’s a favorite among animal-loving readers who enjoy long series and dramatic storytelling.
6 – What If You Had…? (series by Sandra Markle) | 4-8 years
This fun nonfiction series explores what it would be like to have different animal features (like a giraffe’s neck or an elephant’s ears) through a mix of science facts and playful illustrations.
7 – Interrupting Chicken (by David Ezra Stein) | 3-6 years
This funny and lighthearted book follows a little chicken who just can’t stop interrupting bedtime stories.
It’s a great pick when you need something silly and relatable that still wraps up with warmth and connection.
8 – Howl like a Wolf!: Learn to Think, Move, and Act Like 15 Amazing Animals (by Kathleen Yale) | 4-8 years
This interactive guide invites kids to move, pretend, and play like 15 different animals. It’s perfect for energetic days when your child wants to explore through movement and imagination.
9 – Atlas of Animal Adventures: Natural Wonders, Exciting Experiences and Fun Festivities from the Four Corners of the Globe | 5-8 years
This beautifully illustrated book takes kids on a trip around the world to explore where different animals live and what makes them unique.
It’s ideal for curious kids who love animals, maps, and discovering new places.
10 – Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World’s Most Famous Bear (by Lindsay Mattick) | 4-8 years
This tender, real-life story tells how a bear named Winnie became the inspiration for Winnie-the-Pooh with mix of history, family storytelling, and heartfelt moments.
11 – Animalium: Welcome To The Museum (by Jenny Broom) | 5-12 years
This large-format nonfiction book feels like stepping into a museum full of animals from every part of the world.
It’s filled with beautiful illustrations and fascinating facts, perfect for kids who love to explore on their own.
More books to read this months
12 – Lola Gets a Cat (by Anna McQuinn) | 3-5 years
This sweet, simple story follows a little girl who learns what it really means to care for a pet.
13 – Scaredy Squirrel (by Melanie Watt) | 3-7 years
This funny book introduces a nervous squirrel who avoids everything unfamiliar until he realizes trying something new might not be so scary after all.
It’s a great way to talk about bravery in a fun, lighthearted way.
14 – One Tiny Turtle: Read and Wonder (by Nicola Davies) | 5-8 years
This beautifully told nonfiction story follows the life of a loggerhead turtle as she grows and returns to the beach where she was born.
It’s quiet, gentle, and a lovely way to introduce kids to nature and the rhythms of the ocean.
I hope this list helps you discover some new favorites to enjoy with your kids!
If you have a favorite animal book that didn’t make the list, I’d love to hear about it. I’m always looking for new stories to share with my kids.
Happy reading!