Best Early Reader Books
Looking for the best early reader books for your child? You’ve come to the right place! It can be very difficult to find books that are not only the appropriate level, but also fun to read. Kirsten and I looked through hundreds of books to make a list of our favorites.
When my children were learning to read, I struggled to find books that were the correct reading level and would maintain their interest. Books like Hop on Pop by Dr. Seuss are classics but, after a few read-throughs, they quickly lose their appeal. I really wanted to find books that gave my kids a sense of accomplishment.
These are different than phonics books. Phonics books help teach kids to identify letters and the sounds they make and concentrate on specific sounds. Early reader books provide more of a story and are for slightly more advanced readers.
Creating a Library of Early Reader Books
I have compiled a list of early reader books that start at the very early stages of reading and progress to more advanced levels. I really like these books for many reasons. The stories themselves are very age-appropriate, and many of them have pictures on the page. This can really make reading a chapter book a much less daunting task initially.
The early reader books I included progress in level of difficulty. Every child learns at their own pace. The most important skill children develop is the love of reading.
The Best Early Reader Books
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
The Best Early Reader Book for Decoding Readers
Baby Monkey Private Eye by Brian Selznick – Jump to Section
The Best Early Reader Picture Book
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems- Jump to Section
The Best Early Reader Book for More Confident Readers
Mercy Watson by Kate Dicamillo- Jump to Section
Early Reader Book Series
Nate the Great- Jump to Section
Chapter Books and Beyond Early Readers
Stink by Megan McDonald- Jump to Section
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Early Reader Books for Decoding Readers
These are books with a lot of repetition and/ or rhyming to help new readers develop an awareness of sounds and words. Many of these contain humor and the pictures provide perfect cues for the characters, story, and setting. They are perfect stepping stones to give confidence to new readers.
Baby Monkey, Private Eye
Author: Brian Selznick, David Serlin
Illustrator: Brian SelznickÂ
Year: 2018
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 3 – 7
Plot
This book is the perfect mystery book for a VERY beginning reader who is looking for a chapter book that looks like it’s made for older kids. Baby Monkey is a detective who is ready to solve mysteries.
Why Jackie loves it
With Selznick’s signature illustrations, easy language, and repetitive sentences, this book is hysterical and a great way to learn to read. Baby monkey putting his pants on gets me every time!
Find this book in: Books for a 6-Year-Old / Mystery Books for Kids / Animal Books for Kids
Usborne Phonics Readers 12 Book Collection
Author: Russell Punter, Lesley Sims, Phil Roxbee Cox
Illustrator: Stephen Cartwright
Year: 2020
Genre: Phonics Books
Age: 3+
More info:
Plot
This set of phonics reader books comes with 12 books: Big Pig on a Dig, Goose on the Loose, Fat Cat on a Mat, Toad Makes a Road, Ted’s Shed, Fox on a Box, Sam Sheep Can’t Sleep, Mouse Moves House, Frog on a Log, Shark in the Park, Ted in a Red Bed, and Hen’s Pens.
Each book in this series works within a word family ranging in difficulty from easier to harder. For example, Big Pig uses the short i sound, which is easier to start with than Shark in the Park, since the “ar” is a different vowel sound than the a in the word cat.
Like the Charge into Reading books, these have a list of the vocabulary words at the beginning, along with the high-frequency words in each book. I would say that these are for children who already have a basic grasp of sound-letter correspondence.
Why Jackie loves it
I love that these books are based on word families (rhyming words)
Find this book in: Phonics Books
Charge into Reading Level One by Brooke Vitale, John & Wendy
These leveled readers are divided into three levels to grow with your reader. Level one is for beginning readers with short sentences, word repetition, and easy vocabulary words.
Level two is for emerging readers. There are letter blends, compound sentences, and high-interest storylines.
Level three readers are for independent readers. There are longer and more complex storylines. The stories are told in paragraph form, and there is character development.
Ducks in Muck (Step into Reading, Step One) by Lori Haskins
Ducks in muck. Ducks stuck in trucks. Trucks stuck in muck. How will the trucks and ducks get unstuck?
Discover what happens to a group of friendly ducks when they play in the muck and then are taken away in a truck!
What This Story Needs is a Pig in a Wig by Emma J. Virjan
What this story needs is a pig in a wig, on a boat in a moat with a frog, a dog, and a goat on a log. . . .
As a panda in a blouse, a skunk on a trunk, and more hop on board, it becomes clear that what this story really needs is a bigger boat! Join Pig on an exciting boat ride as she discovers that life is more fun with friends in this fantastic funny read-aloud with cumulative text from author-illustrator Emma J. Virján.
Early Reader Picture Books
These picture books and early chapter books have great pictures on each page and very readable stories without being overwhelming to new readers. While many beginning readers have the skills to recognize words and understand stories, too many words on a page can seem like an insurmountable task. The picture books that we included in this list are completely hilarious and can be enjoyed by older children as well,
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus
Author: Mo Willems
Illustrator: Mo Willems
Year: 2003
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2-5
More info: Caldecott Honor Book
Plot
The Bus Driver needs to take a break from driving and warns you not to let the Pigeon drive, no matter how much he begs.
Why Jackie loves it
Mo Willems makes me laugh, and this book is no exception. It is so silly. The best part is that it is interactive- the reader has to choose whether or not to let him drive.
Find this book in: Transportation Books for Preschool
Elephant and Piggie Biggie by Mo Willems
Mo Willems, a #1 New York Times bestselling author and illustrator, celebrates ten years of Elephant & Piggie in this special bind-up collection: Today I Will Fly!; Watch Me Throw the Ball!; Can I Play Too?; the award-winning Let’s Go For a Drive!; and I Really Like Slop!
Hi! Fly Guy by Tedd Arnold
“A fly was flying. He was looking for something to eat. Something tasty. Something slimy. A boy was walking. He was looking for something to catch. Something smart. Something for The Amazing Pet Show.”
The boy and fly meet and so begins a beautiful friendship. Er, and so begins a very funny friendship. Using hyperbole, puns, slapstick, and silly drawings, bestselling author/illustrator Tedd Arnold creates an easy reader that is full of fun. With an eye-catching holographic cover. This is the first in a series of four.
What’s Your Sound, Hound the Hound by Mo Willems
Join spunky Cat the Cat as she introduces the very youngest readers to her world, where a surprise is waiting in every book.
I Lost My Tooth
Author: Mo Willems
Illustrator: Mo Willems
Year: 2018
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 5 – 7
More info: Unlimited Squirrels #1
Plot
A new cast of characters has been introduced in the first book of Mo Willems’ beginning reader series. Zoom has lost his tooth, and the other squirrels are looking to help him fix it, until they learn what a baby tooth is. Funny and cute, the story has jokes and tooth facts scattered throughout!
Why Kirsten loves it
When my kids graduated from Elephant & Piggie books, they went right into these as their next step. My oldest even read this to my youngest’s pre-k class when he was in first grade and was the mystery reader!
Find this book in: Best Books for 6-year-olds / Early Reader Books
Early Reader Books for More Confident Readers
Many of the books in this part of the list are “Branches” books by Scholastic. These books are unique in that they provide a stepping stone from the leveled readers to the traditional chapter book. These books each have pictures but they also have exciting storylines. There is something kids who love humor, adventure or a little bit of fear factor as well.
Mercy Watson to the Rescue
Author: Kate DiCamillo
Illustrator: Chris Van Dusen
Year: 2005
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 4 – 8
More info: Mercy Watson #1
Plot
My youngest son’s favorite early reader series revolved around a pig named Mercy Watson. I have every book about this charming pig being raised as a child in the Watson home. There is also a spin-off series about her neighbors on Deckawoo Drive.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love Kate DiCamillo and the wonderful messages in her books but I cannot overlook the wonderful drawings of Chris Van Dusen too! This is my favorite early reader series to gift – every kid loves Mercy.
Find this book in: Best Books for 5-year-olds / Bedtime Stories / Early Reader Books / Best Chapter Books to Read Aloud
Rise of the Earth Dragon
Author: Tracey West
Illustrator: Graham Howells
Year: 2014
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 6 – 8
More info: Dragon Masters #1
Plot
Drake has been taken by King Roland’s soldiers so that he can be trained as a dragon master. At the castle, Drake and his new friends, Ana, Rori, and Bo, have to learn to connect and train their dragons.
Why Jackie loves it
This is a wonderful series for the early reader. High-frequency words, great stories, and bright, colorful pictures fill these stories.
Find this book in: Best Books for 6-year-olds / Early Readers Books / Dragon Books for Kids / Chapter Books to Read Aloud
Heidi Heckelbeck Has a Secret
Author: Wanda Coven
Illustrator: Priscilla Burris
Year: 2012
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 6 – 8
More info: Heidi Heckelbeck #1
Plot
Heidi seems like a regular eight-year-old girl, but she is a witch. Heidi needs to hide her powers so she can blend in with other kids. She’s always been homeschooled, but now she needs to go to real school. Can she keep her secret?
Why Jackie loves it
These early readers have large type and cute pictures, but they are definitely not short on fun.
Find this book in: Best Books for 6-year-olds / Books Like Harry Potter for Kids / Early Readers
Eva’s Treetop Festival
Author: Rebecca Elliott
Illustrator: Rebecca Elliott
Year: 2015
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 5 – 7
More info: Owl Diaries #1
Plot
The early reader books in this series feature adorable animal friendships. Each of the stories is written as a diary. This story is about Eva Wingdale organizing the Spring festival.
Why Jackie loves it
Your little ones will love meeting Eva and her friends, watching her go to school, and navigating life.
Find this book in: Best Books for 7-year-olds / Early Reader Books
Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea
Author: Ben Clanton
Illustrator: Dav Pilkey
Year: 2016
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 5 – 8
More info: Narwhal and Jelly #1, Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards
Plot
This early reader graphic novel is adorable and the first in the Narwhal and Jelly book series. This book is three short stories in one featuring these ocean besties making new friends.
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of the best books for beginner readers to gain confidence. The whole series is a total delight. As a bonus, books 1-5 are combined into a single audiobook with a full cast of narrators!
Find this book in: Best Books for 6-year-olds / Early Reader Books / Full Cast Audiobooks for Kids
Early Reader Books Series
Nate the Great
Author: Marjorie Weinman Sharmat
Illustrator: Marc Simont
Year: 1977
Genre: Early Reader Mystery
Age: 5 – 7
More info: Part of the Nate the Great series
Plot
The first book in a series about kid detective, Nate, who solves mysteries for his friends and neighbors. In this story, Annie has lost a picture, but Nate is on the case!
Why Kirsten loves it
This beginning reader kids mystery book series is wonderful for emerging readers. The series doesn’t need to be read in order, but your kid will love reading it outloud to you over and over again!
Find this book in: Best Books for 5-year-olds / Books for Emergent Readers / Mystery Books for Kids
The Mystery of the Stolen Diamonds
Author: David Adler
Illustrator: Susanna Natti
Year: 1980
Genre: Early Reader Mystery
Age: 6 – 8
More info: Cam Jansen #1
Plot
The first in the Cam Jansen series introduces readers to Cam, a young girl with a photographic memory and an uncanny ability to solve crimes. This particular story finds Cam and her friend Erin at the mall when the jewelry store is robbed. Can she solve the case?
Why Kirsten loves it
Cam Jansen is one of the first series my children ever read aloud, and it happens to be a great set of children’s mystery books! Each chapter is concise and ideal for developing readers, while the mysteries within keep the kids engaged. Since each book is a stand-alone, you can read them in whatever order you choose.
Find this book in: Mystery Books for Kids / Best Books for 6-year-olds / Early Reader Books
The Princess in Black
Author: Shannon Hale
Illustrator: LeUyen Pham
Year: 2014
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 4 – 7
More info: Princess in Black #1
Plot
In this early reader, the princess has to fight monsters while trying to open her birthday presents. Â
Why Jackie loves it
This adorable book is part of a series that is another cute and funny example of a strong female princess!
Find this book in: Best Books for 7-year-olds / Early Reader Books
Poppleton
Author: Cynthia Rylant
Illustrator: Mark Teague
Year: 2019
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 5 – 7
More info: Poppleton #1
Plot
Poppleton is the new neighbor in town, and he’s looking to make friends. He meets Cherry Sue and Fillmore and treats readers to his weekly antics around the neighborhood.
Why Jackie loves it
Poppleton is the opposite of my other favorite early reader pig, Mercy Watson. His posh style just cracks me up.
Find this book in: Early Reader Books / Best Books for 6-year-olds
Chapter Books and Beyond for Early Readers
These readers are considered a reading level of second grade and beyond but, that does not mean that an older child cannot enjoy these books or that a younger child is too young. Each of these books has age-appropriate storylines.
Stink: The Incredible Shrinking Kid
Author: Megan McDonald
Illustrator: Peter H. Reynolds
Year: 2005
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 6 – 8
More info: Stink #1
Plot
Stink is Judy Moody’s younger brother – and he now has his own series! Judy measures Stink every morning before school, but then one day she reads off a number that makes no sense, unless Stink is shrinking! With comics that help illustrate his plight to convince everyone he’s growing, this series is a sure-fire hit for reluctant readers.
Why Jackie loves it
Like McDonald’s other series, Judy Moody, I think Stink is a perfect early reader story for kids just beginning to read. Try having them read a chapter out loud and then ask a question to make sure they are comprehending what they are reading.
Find this book in: Early Reader Books / Best Books for 8-year-olds
The Lost Stone
Author: Jordan Quinn
Illustrator: Robert McPhillips
Year: 2014
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 6 – 8
More info: Kingdom of Wrenly #1
Plot
8-year-old Lucas is a prince who befriends Clara, the seamstress’s daughter. Eager to explore the Kingdom of Wrenly, Lucas recruits Clara to show him around. Together they go on series of adventures as they explore all the kingdom has to offer’s unique lands, meeting magical creatures along the way.
Why Jackie loves it
This series of early readers has pictures on almost every page and easy to read language. The stories, however, are fun and full of adventure. They are sure to keep your child engaged with fairies, trolls, and mermaids.
Find this book in: Best Books for 7-year-olds / Early Reader Books / Books Like Harry Potter for Kids
Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus
Author: Barbara Park
Illustrator: Denise Brunkus
Year: 1992
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 5 – 7
More info: Junie B. Jones #1, New York Times Bestseller
Plot
Junie B. Jones is the Ramona Quimby of the next generation. Junie is going into Kindergarten and definitely has a knack for getting into some trouble.
Why Kirsten loves it
This realistic fiction series is perfect for new readers and will keep your little reader laughing.
Find this book in: Best Books for 6-year-olds / Best Realistic Fiction Books / Back to School Books / Books for Emergent Readers
The Absent Author
Author: Ron Roy
Illustrator: John Steven Gurney
Year: 1997
Genre: Early Reader Mystery
Age: 6 – 8
More info: A to Z Mysteries #1
Plot
The first in a kids’ mystery book series, each book in the A to Z mysteries series solves a mystery starting with a different letter. This first one is about an absent author who never turned up to his event, and the three kid detectives looking for him.
Why Kirsten loves it
Despite being a series, each of the books is a standalone that can be read out of order. This was one of the first book series my son read alone.
Find this book in: Best Books for 6-year-olds / Mystery Books for Kids / Early Reader Books
Dinosaurs Before Dark
Author: Mary Pope Osbourne
Illustrator: Â Sal Murdocca
Year: 1992
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 5 – 8
More info: Magic Treehouse #1
Plot
The book that launched the bestselling series! Jack and Annie are walking home from school when a treehouse appears out of nowhere. Eager to explore, they climb in and are whisked back to the time of the dinosaurs and now they need to figure out how to get home!
Why Jackie loves it
I love that there are so many adventures to choose from. I know your picky reader can find a few that appeal to their likes!
Find this book in: 40+ Early Reader Books / Read Aloud Books / Best Books for 6-year-olds
The Bad Guys
Author: Aaron Blabey
Year: 2015
Genre: Graphic Novel
More info: The Bad Guys #1
Age Range: 6 – 8
Plot
Aaron Blabey’s famed series about the bad guys is a favorite in our homes. This graphic novel series is perfect for early readers. The series is all about four “bad guys” who are trying to become good guys by trying to save those around them in funny ways.
Why Kirsten loves it
This book is hilarious which means kids will enjoy reading it. The more they read, the more it becomes a habit and they will improve their reading skills.
Adaptation Information
This series has been made into a series of movies. The second movie came out in 2025 and a third movie is expected in the future.
Find this book in: Early Reader Books for Emergent Readers / The Best Books for 7-Year-Olds / Animal Books for Kids
Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew: Sleepover Sleuths
Author: Carolyn Keene
Illustrator: Macky Pamintuan
Year: 2008
Genre: Early Reader Mystery
Age: 7 – 9
More info: Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew #1
Plot
Nancy Drew is getting a modern update for the younger set in this series of beginning reader mystery books for kids. She’s back with George and Bess to solve kid-appropriate cases – think missing dolls and an escaping pony.
Why Kirsten loves it
As a teen I adored Nancy Drew, so it’s nice to see her mystery-solving roots in this early reader series!
Find this book in: Early Reader Books / Best Books for 8-year-olds / Mystery Books for Kids
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Early Reader Book?
An early reader book is a perfect book and a first step in reading. We divided the early readers into even smaller groups, like emergent readers, decoding readers, and beyond.
What is an Emergent Reader
An Emergent Reader is a reader who is interested in books but is not yet able to read books independently. They know their letters and sounds and are starting to sound out words. They will also know some sight words.
Epilogue
Did you find any books for your early reader? Let us know if you need more personalized recommendations.
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