10 Best-Selling Children's Books Millions Love

Discover expert picks from Grammy-nominated artist Chika, CEO Meghan M. Biro, and tech leader Sally Eaves Reinvent for best-selling Children's Books

Chika
Meghan M. Biro
Sally Eaves Reinvent
Lolita Taub
Jemma Palmer
Bob Kostic
Melissa Stewart
Updated on June 24, 2025
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There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, especially in Children's literature where stories shape young minds and nurture imagination. These 10 best-selling Children's books have captivated millions, offering proven value through timeless lessons, vivid illustrations, and engaging narratives that foster early learning and emotional growth.

Experts like Meghan M. Biro, CEO at TalentCulture, praise "Oh, the Places You'll Go!" for its inspiring life lessons that resonate beyond childhood. Grammy-nominated artist Chika remembers "The Rainbow Fish" as a formative story about sharing and friendship, highlighting the emotional depth children's books can hold. Tech and education innovator Sally Eaves Reinvent celebrates "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" for its engaging design and educational impact that continues to spark curiosity across generations.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks for nurturing young readers, parents and educators seeking content tailored to their unique Children's needs might consider creating a personalized Children's book that combines these validated approaches, enhancing the reading experience with personalized themes and goals.

Best for inspiring life lessons in children
Meghan M. Biro, CEO at TalentCulture and a respected voice in leadership and workplace trends, highlights this book as an unconventional but effective guide for career and leadership growth. She notes, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” is a fantastic career/leadership book in an unexpected format. This recommendation resonates deeply, especially for those marking new beginnings like graduations or job transitions. Alongside Lolita Taub, a venture capitalist focused on community-driven companies, these endorsements showcase how Dr. Seuss’s classic continues to inspire both personal and professional journeys.
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Recommended by Meghan M. Biro

CEO @TalentCulture, Brand Strategist, Podcaster

“Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” is a fantastic career/leadership book in an unexpected format. And, we all could use a little Dr. Seuss right now! A gift for a new graduate or a surprise thank you for a colleague. (from X)

1990·56 pages·Children's, Life Lessons, Motivation, Resilience, Self Confidence

What started as Dr. Seuss’s playful exploration of life’s twists became a beloved guide for navigating change. His poetic verses and whimsical illustrations teach you about resilience, optimism, and embracing new adventures, all through a child-friendly lens. Specific chapters like the "Lurch on a prickly perch" highlight setbacks while encouraging readers to keep moving forward. This book suits anyone celebrating transitions, from graduates stepping into the unknown to those needing a gentle reminder of their inner strength.

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Best for early learning and curiosity
Sally Eaves Reinvent, a leading voice in tech and education innovation, highlights how this classic book remains a favorite across generations, emphasizing its unique design and educational impact. She shares her enthusiasm, noting, "That is such a great book!!!" This endorsement aligns with the book’s enduring popularity, showing how its creative storytelling and visual elements continue to engage young learners. Also, Jemma Palmer recalls the book’s memorable design that captivated her as a child, reinforcing its lasting impression on early education.
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Recommended by Sally Eaves Reinvent

Tech and education CEO, AI and blockchain advisor

That is such a great book!!! (from X)

1981·32 pages·Children's, Education, Storytelling, Illustration, Early Learning

Millions of children and parents have turned to Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar for more than simple bedtime reading. Carle’s background as a graphic designer shines through in the book’s bold, colorful illustrations and innovative die-cut pages that engage young minds visually and narratively. You’ll discover how the story teaches days of the week, counting, and the transformation process of a caterpillar into a butterfly, blending early education with a gentle introduction to nature. This book suits anyone looking to spark curiosity and learning in toddlers and preschoolers through artful storytelling and tactile interaction.

Sold over 55 million copies worldwide
Translated into 70 languages
Received Children’s Literature Legacy Award
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Best for personal reading plans
This AI-created book on early literacy is tailored to your specific goals and background. By sharing your child's current reading level and the areas you want to focus on, you receive a book that covers exactly the techniques and knowledge you need. Personalizing this guide means it addresses your unique challenges and interests, making the learning process more effective and engaging for your child. It puts proven reading development methods directly into your hands, matched to your family's needs.
2025·50-300 pages·Children's, Early Literacy, Reading Skills, Phonemic Awareness, Vocabulary Building

This personalized book explores battle-tested techniques to enhance children's reading skills, tailored specifically to your interests and goals. It reveals how early literacy develops through engaging, evidence-backed methods that focus on building foundational reading abilities and fostering a love for books. By matching content to your background and priorities, it examines practical ways to support children's language acquisition, phonemic awareness, vocabulary growth, and reading confidence. Delving into proven approaches that have resonated with millions, this tailored guide offers a unique blend of popular insights combined with personalized focus areas. It empowers you to understand and nurture your child's reading journey in a way that aligns perfectly with your family's learning style and objectives.

Tailored Guide
Reading Skill Enhancement
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for nurturing toddler-parent bonds
"I Love You to the Moon and Back" offers a heartfelt look at the daily expressions of love between a parent and child, rendered through the charming journey of a bear and cub. This board book, beloved by many, invites you to celebrate the simple joys of togetherness—from playful outdoor adventures to quiet bedtime cuddles. With a personalization page included, it transforms from a storybook into a treasured gift ideal for baby showers, birthdays, or any moment to honor the special bond with toddlers. Its gentle narrative and vivid illustrations make it a comforting choice for nurturing emotional connections in early childhood.
I Love You to the Moon and Back book cover

by Amelia Hepworth, Tim Warnes·You?

2015·28 pages·Children's, Early Childhood, Parenting, Emotional Development, Bedtime Stories

What keeps parents and gift-givers returning to "I Love You to the Moon and Back" is its simple yet intimate portrayal of love between a bear and cub, capturing the tender moments that define early childhood bonds. Amelia Hepworth and Tim Warnes craft a gentle narrative paired with soothing illustrations, inviting you to share daily expressions of affection through playful activities like climbing mountains and watching shimmering skies. The book’s personalization feature, a "To" and "From" page, makes it more than a story—it becomes a cherished keepsake, especially suited for babies and toddlers up to age three. If you’re looking to deepen your child's sense of security and warmth, this book offers a touching way to say "I love you" repeatedly, without ever feeling repetitive.

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Best for foundational toddler concepts
My First Library: Boxset of 10 Board Books for Kids brings together a thoughtfully curated set of ten board books that introduce toddlers to essential early learning topics. This collection stands out by covering a broad spectrum—from ABCs and numbers to animals and transportation—using bright, well-researched illustrations that capture young minds. It’s designed for little scholars beginning their journey with books, helping to develop vocabulary, reading readiness, and observational skills in a format perfectly suited for tiny hands. Parents and educators looking for a reliable, engaging resource to support foundational learning will find this boxset a practical choice.
2018·220 pages·Children's, Early Education, Vocabulary Building, Reading Skills, Observation Skills

Wonder House Books crafted this boxset drawing from extensive research into early childhood learning, aiming to equip toddlers with foundational knowledge through engaging board books. You’ll find ten focused topics like ABCs, numbers, shapes, and animals, each designed to build vocabulary and observational skills with bright, captivating illustrations. This collection is especially suited for parents and educators seeking to introduce varied concepts in a tactile, accessible format that encourages early literacy development. While it won’t replace interactive teaching, it offers a solid stepping stone for little learners to explore everyday objects and basic concepts.

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Best for encouraging creativity and acceptance
The Wonderful Things You Will Be stands out in children's literature for its lyrical celebration of parental love and the dreams parents hold for their children. Its rhythmic rhymes paired with lush illustrations create a reading experience that families return to time and again, making it ideal for baby showers, birthdays, and graduations. This book addresses the universal desire to express unconditional acceptance and hope, offering a timeless message that comforts and inspires readers of all ages. It’s a gentle reminder of the wonderful possibilities ahead for every child and a beautiful gift for any occasion.
The Wonderful Things You Will Be book cover

by Emily Winfield Martin·You?

2015·36 pages·Children's, Parenting, Poetry, Illustrations, Family

Emily Winfield Martin invites you into a world where parental love and dreams for children take center stage, weaving a tender narrative through rhythmic rhyme and enchanting illustrations. This New York Times bestseller moves beyond simple storytelling; it explores the emotional landscape parents traverse as they envision the futures of their little ones, from boldness to creativity. You’ll find chapters that celebrate individuality and acceptance, making this a heartfelt read for families navigating new beginnings or milestones. Whether gifted at a baby shower or a graduation, this book resonates with anyone cherishing the hopes they hold for the next generation.

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Best for daily reading habits
This AI-created book on cultivating reading joy is crafted to match your child's interests and your family’s background. By sharing your goals and reading preferences, you receive a tailored guide that focuses on building daily habits to make reading an enjoyable experience. Personalization matters here because every child responds differently to stories and routines, so this book is created to fit exactly what will inspire your young reader.
2025·50-300 pages·Children's, Children's Reading, Habit Formation, Parental Involvement, Reading Motivation

This tailored book explores a personalized, step-by-step plan designed to cultivate a lasting love of reading in children. It reveals how to foster daily reading habits by blending widely valued insights with your specific interests and goals. By focusing on your background and the unique needs of your child, it covers engaging techniques to make reading joyful and effective. The approach emphasizes building enthusiasm and confidence through tailored content that connects proven knowledge with your family’s preferences. This personalized guide helps unlock the joy of reading by addressing challenges and celebrating milestones aligned with your child’s development and your aspirations.

Tailored Guide
Reading Motivation
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for fostering child curiosity and knowledge
My Encyclopedia of Very Important Things offers a vibrant introduction to the world, crafted especially for young minds eager to learn. This children’s encyclopedia blends fun facts with colorful illustrations and photography, making complex topics like planets, animals, and seasons accessible and engaging for kids aged 5 to 9. It addresses children's natural curiosity by relating information to their everyday experiences, making it a wonderful resource for homeschooling or bedtime stories. Its recognition by notable awards underscores its appeal and quality in the children’s educational category.
2016·224 pages·Children's, Education, Science, Geography, Animals

What happens when a trusted publisher like DK creates an encyclopedia specifically for curious kids aged 5 to 9? This book offers a lively mix of colorful illustrations, vivid photography, and engaging facts that cover animals, planets, seasons, and everyday experiences from a child’s perspective. It doesn’t just list facts; it invites young learners to explore the world in a way that resonates with their own lives, making complex subjects accessible and interesting. Whether it’s fiery volcanoes or mighty mammals, you’ll find content that sparks curiosity without overwhelming, making it ideal for early explorers or shared reading moments.

Shortlisted for School Library Association Information Book Award 2017
Best Children's Book in Junior Design Awards 2017
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Best for developing early reading skills
Melissa Stewart, founder of She Owns It and a recognized advocate for personal growth, highlighted this book during a family vacation when she sought mindful ways to engage young children. Her recommendation reflects how this book aligns with widespread reader appreciation for early literacy tools that blend learning with enjoyment. She shared, "Thank you Laura. Family vacation and trying to be mindful of my reactions, etc. I’ll add the book to my must read list! xx", illustrating how this book supports parents and caregivers in fostering reading skills while also nurturing positive family moments.
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Recommended by Melissa Stewart

Founder of She Owns It, Entrepreneur Advocate

@lbarton99 @JayShettyIW Thank you Laura. Family vacation and trying to be mindful of my reactions, etc. I’ll add the book to my must read list! xx (from X)

2010·40 pages·Children's, Early Literacy, Reading Skills, Phonemic Awareness, Repetition

Unlike most children's books that rely on simple storytelling, Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle crafted this one to support early readers by focusing on rhyme, rhythm, and repetition. It teaches young children foundational reading skills through engaging, repetitive text paired with vivid illustrations, making the learning process intuitive and enjoyable. The book’s structure encourages children to recognize patterns and sounds, helping you build your child's confidence in reading independently. Chapters include fun reading activities and an introduction by educator Laura Robb, which helps guide you in using the book effectively. This book suits parents and educators looking to introduce reading in a playful yet structured way.

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Best for preschool skill building through activities
Highlights Learning, developed with education experts, aims to prepare young learners for school success by combining brain-building puzzles and humor with curriculum practice. Their extensive experience in early childhood education shines through in this workbook, which is designed to make foundational skills accessible and enjoyable for preschoolers. This approach helps parents and children alike embrace learning as an engaging adventure rather than a chore.
2017·256 pages·Children's, Early Education, Preschool Skills, Math Basics, Language Arts

What makes this workbook a favorite among educators and parents alike is its thoughtful blend of learning and play crafted by Highlights Learning, a team rooted in educational expertise. You’ll find 256 pages packed with activities that gently introduce preschoolers to math fundamentals like counting and patterns, alongside language arts skills such as letter recognition and handwriting. The book’s variety—from Hidden Pictures to mazes and rhymes—caters to different learning styles, helping your child build confidence before starting school. If you're looking to engage your little one in a way that feels like fun rather than work, this workbook offers a balanced mix that supports early development without overwhelming.

Family Choice Award Winner
Play Advances Language (PAL) Award
2020 National Parenting Seal of Approval
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Best for engaging early independent readers
Junie B. Jones's First Boxed Set Ever! offers a unique window into the mind of a lively kindergartener whose candid and humorous perspective has engaged millions of young readers worldwide. This collection brings together the first four books that have charmed children for over twenty-five years, blending relatable school adventures with the ups and downs of family life. Its enduring popularity speaks to how well it meets the needs of kids just beginning their reading journey, making it a go-to choice for parents and educators aiming to spark a lifelong love of reading through laughter and real-life situations.
Junie B. Jones's First Boxed Set Ever! (Books 1-4) book cover

by Barbara Park, Denise Brunkus·You?

2001·Children's, Humor, School Life, Family, Friendship

The breakthrough moment came when Barbara Park captured the chaotic charm of early childhood through Junie B. Jones, a kindergartener whose adventures mix humor with relatable challenges like first-day jitters and sibling rivalry. You get a front-row seat to her mischievous antics and candid voice, which teaches empathy and resilience without feeling preachy. This boxed set collects the first four books, offering playful stories that children learning to read or starting school will recognize and enjoy. It's especially suited for parents and educators looking to engage young readers with a character who feels like a real kid navigating the ups and downs of growing up.

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Best for teaching sharing and friendship values
Chika, a Grammy-nominated artist known for her unique voice, fondly recalls "The Rainbow Fish" as her favorite childhood book. This personal connection highlights how the book’s message of sharing resonated beyond just early childhood lessons, even surprising those close to her. "My favorite childhood book was the rainbow fish and somehow my family was shocked that I’m a gay Pisces," she shares, illustrating the book’s lasting emotional impact. This recommendation aligns with widespread appreciation for the story’s gentle introduction to friendship and generosity, making it a meaningful pick for your child's early reading.

Recommended by Chika

Grammy-nominated artist and Pisces stellium

my favorite childhood book was the rainbow fish and somehow my family was shocked that i’m a gay pisces (from X)

The Rainbow Fish book cover

by Marcus Pfister·You?

1999·12 pages·Children's, Friendship, Sharing, Social Skills, Visual Engagement

The breakthrough moment came when Marcus Pfister combined simple storytelling with dazzling foil illustrations to create a children's classic. You learn not only about sharing and friendship through the tale of a beautiful fish, but also how visual elements like glittering scales engage young readers’ attention and imagination. Chapters are brief, perfect for board book format, making it accessible to toddlers and preschoolers alike. If you're seeking to introduce core social values to your child in an appealing way, this book offers a gentle yet memorable approach.

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Proven Children's Books, Personalized for You

Get popular, expert-endorsed Children's books tailored to your child's unique interests and needs.

Tailored learning paths
Engaging personalized stories
Expert-backed selections

Validated by experts and loved by millions of Children's book enthusiasts

Children's Learning Blueprint
30-Day Reading Joy System
Foundations of Childhood Growth
Success Secrets for Young Readers

Conclusion

These 10 best-selling Children's books collectively emphasize nurturing curiosity, emotional connection, and foundational skills through stories and activities that have stood the test of time. If you prefer proven methods, start with classics like "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" and "Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?" For validated approaches blending emotional growth and creativity, combine "The Wonderful Things You Will Be" with "Oh, the Places You'll Go!"

For parents and educators seeking a more tailored experience, you can create a personalized Children's book to harmonize proven methods with your child's unique interests and developmental needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped many children and families build lasting bonds and a love for reading.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" for early learning basics or "Oh, the Places You'll Go!" to inspire resilience and confidence. Both are widely loved and set a strong foundation for young readers.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Children's?

No, these books range from board books like "My First Library" to early readers like "Junie B. Jones," covering all beginner levels with approachable language and engaging illustrations.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can definitely pick a book that fits your child's interest or developmental stage. Each offers unique value, so choose based on what resonates most with your child's needs.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

"Preschool Big Fun Workbook" offers hands-on activities that you can start immediately to build preschool skills through fun, making it practical for daily learning.

What makes these books different from others on Children's?

These selections combine expert endorsements and widespread reader love, ensuring they're impactful, trusted, and have stood the test of time in fostering early literacy and emotional growth.

Can I get a Children's book personalized for my child's interests and needs?

Yes! While these expert-recommended books provide great foundations, personalized Children's books can complement them by focusing on your child's unique interests and developmental goals. Try creating a personalized Children's book to get a tailored reading experience.

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