We read to Arlo every night as part of his bedtime routine, and our bookshelf is always changing as we add new favorites. Here’s a refreshed list of books that have been hits for our three-year-old—great for building your home library or as thoughtful gifts for little readers.
Some stories become nightly staples while others are occasional picks; I’ve noted the titles we go back to most often and those that spark the best conversations or laughs.
Photo by Jeff Mindell | Graphic by Meagan Knight for Studio DIY
Please Read!
Independent bookstores are facing real challenges right now. For this roundup I sourced each title from small, independent shops across the country and linked those stores as the primary sources. If you can, please consider supporting one of these independent sellers when you buy—many of them carry multiple titles from this list, so you can often order several from the same shop.
I included a variety of stores based on recommendations, but if you prefer a particular shop, search its site for multiple titles to simplify ordering.
Favorite Books for Three Year Olds
1. The Sandcastle That Lola Built by Megan Maynor: A sweet story about teamwork and perseverance. Lola faces obstacles while building a sandcastle but finds friends who help in ways that highlight everyone’s different strengths. A reliable bedtime favorite.
2. Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love: A beautifully illustrated, gentle story about a boy who imagines himself as a mermaid and receives loving support from his grandmother. The text is simple but the message of acceptance is powerful.
3. Maybe Something Beautiful by F. Isabel Campoy: A celebration of community, color, and creativity. This book shows how art can bring neighbors together and transform a neighborhood, inspired by a true story.
4. The Little Gardener by Emily Hughes: Tender illustrations and a patient, encouraging story about a small gardener who learns that modest efforts add up—perfect for teaching persistence.
5. Super Pooper and Whizz Kid: Potty Power by Eunice Moyle: A ridiculous and fun potty-training board book that actually engages kids. Quick, humorous, and factual, it’s one of the few potty-themed reads that kept Arlo’s attention.
6. The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad: Told from a younger sister’s perspective, this book honors courage and resilience on a girl’s first day wearing hijab. It contains thoughtful lines about letting go of hurtful words and standing strong.
7. Mary Blair’s Unique Flair by Amy Novesky: A lively introduction to the life and work of artist Mary Blair. Bold, kid-friendly illustrations make it an engaging read and a fun way to introduce art history to young children.
8. Yum Yummy Yuck by Amanda Jane and Cree Lane Jones: A bright, graphic board book that’s great for toddlers and preschoolers. Kids enjoy guessing which items are “yum,” “yummy,” or “yuck,” making it interactive and playful.
9. Love, Z by Jessie Sima: A gentle, thoughtful story about a little robot exploring the many meanings of love. Sweet and imaginative, it’s perfect for quiet moments.
10. Carmela Full of Wishes by Matt de la Peña: A poetic story that resonates with children who love small rituals—like blowing dandelions—and opens up conversations about family, immigration, and hope in an age-appropriate way.
11. Nugget & Fang by Tammi Sauer: A funny and surprising tale of an unlikely friendship between a minnow and a shark. It’s undersea silliness with a positive message about judging others too quickly.
12. Tangled by Ann Miranda: One of our top-read books for teaching shapes. The rhyming text and playful scenario—shapes tangled in a jungle gym—make it a joy to read aloud and great for early learning.
If buying from independent retailers isn’t an option, these titles are also available through major retailers. Choose what works best for you.
More Favorite Kids Books
- Our Favorite Board Books
- Favorite Books For One Year Olds
- Favorite Books for 18 Month Olds
- Favorite Books for Two Year Olds
- Our Favorite Books for Four Year Olds