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Best Books for 4-Year-Olds

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For many 4-year-olds, there isn’t much better than curling up next to their parents on the couch and listening to a good story. There also comes a time when they want to read to their parents, too. From interactive books and books that rhyme to beloved classics, there are plenty of books out there to ignite children’s imaginations at this age. Join us as we bring you the best books for 4-year-olds based on their readability, opportunities for learning and long-term durability.

Most Interactive

What Should Danny Do? (The Power to Choose Series) (Hardcover)


List Price: $21.99 USD
New From: $12.89 USD In Stock
Used from: $12.88 USD In Stock

“What Should Danny Do” is a 9-in-1 choose-your-own-adventure storybook that is a must-have for any parent who is trying to spark the imagination of their child. The story follows Danny, who is a boy training to be a superhero. Danny has to make different choices each day. Children get to make those choices for him and see how their choices affect Danny’s life. The book helps young children learn how to make positive choices as they follow Danny in his everyday adventures. This book is a must-have for any child’s bookshelf.

Most Fun Characters

The Gruffalo (Paperback)


List Price: $7.99 USD
New From: $5.79 USD In Stock
Used from: $5.44 USD In Stock

With its fun illustrations and clever plot, “The Gruffalo” teaches children how important it is to stay calm under pressure and think creatively when trying to solve problems — and that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. The rhyming and cadence of the book make it an easy read that kids will ask to hear over and over again, as well as one that early readers can use to practice their read-aloud skills.

Encourages Thought

The Wonderful Things You Will Be (Hardcover)


List Price: $17.99 USD
New From: $11.67 USD In Stock
Used from: $6.00 USD In Stock

Featuring gorgeous illustrations and an engaging, quiet story, “The Wonderful Things You Will Be” encourages little readers to realize there are many different things they can choose to be as they grow. A beautiful story about how important each and every child is, this brilliant picture book belongs on everyone’s bookshelf to be read over and over again.

Best Answers

Every parent has gotten big questions from their little ones, such as:

“Why is the sky blue?”
“What does the doctor see when he looks in my throat?”
“What makes a car go?”

These are some of the questions that the “National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Why” answers in an interactive format that both parents and children will love. This big book invites youngsters to ask their questions and gives them age-appropriate answers. This is a great reference book kids will want to hang onto for years.

Best for Imagination

Harold and the Purple Crayon (Purple Crayon Books) (Paperback)


List Price: $7.99 USD
New From: $5.39 USD In Stock
Used from: $2.50 USD In Stock

Carrying nothing but an oversized purple crayon and his own imagination, Harold takes himself on a stroll in the moonlight. Harold and the crayon go on adventures in the woods and across the seas — they even run across dragons. When the adventure is complete, Harold, his crayon and the reader return home safe and sound to snuggle in their beds. This is a charming story full of twists and surprises that children will want to read many times.

Expert Commentary

“I have found that 4-year-olds will truly get excited about the right books, and with any young child or student, these first few books can have a lasting impact. Parents, caregivers and teachers can each work to understand the topics and types of books that excite the youngster, often through reading books aloud. From there, let the child’s preferences help guide the library additions.”

Our Expert Consultant

Jill Goodwin

Jill Goodwin is an environmental scientist and working mother of one. She and her husband, an archaeologist, reside in Florida and have deep expertise around things outside of the house that you and your child may encounter. From taking their daughter to find reptiles and amphibians in the swamps to testing the chemical impact of the top sunscreens, Jill is here to help you find the best for your child.
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