I can’t count all the great children’s books that have made me smile or even tear up over the years, but I could easily count with just a few fingers the titles that have almost made me shoot milk out of my nose.

If you’re looking to share a few belly laughs while reading with your young ones, here are 11 great kids’ books that really know how to bring the funny.

RELATED: Hilarious New Read-Alouds To Share With Kids

no no 9780803741713 The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak

Before you ask, yes, there really are no pictures in this kids’ book. The author, B.J. Novak from “The Office,” admits upfront that a book with no pictures might seem “boring” and “serious,” but he quickly reveals how much power words actually have. “Here is how books work,” he tells us, “Everything the words say, the person reading the book has to say.” And Novak has a lot of fun making the reader do just that, writing lines like “Ba-Dooongy Face!” and “I am a monkey who taught myself to read.” It’s a genius concept and your kids will love watching you submit to the book’s fiendishly funny whims.

9780593406380 The Book That Almost Rhymed by Omar Abed, illustrated by Hatem Aly

A young boy has written a rhyming story, but when he starts to read it aloud, his younger sister interjects her own (non-rhyming) ideas! At first, he is annoyed, but as he integrates his sister’s suggestions, he realizes that the unlikely collaboration made the story even better. Young readers will giggle over every silly interruption and non-rhyming line in this adorable picture book.

9780763656003 We Found a Hat by Jon Klassen

Jon Klassen is the Tig Notaro of hat-based humor. His deadpan game is so strong, SO strong, and he’s brought his deceptively dead-on timing to a trilogy of just ridiculously funny picture books. The simple premises are conveyed by the titles — I Want My Hat Back, This Is Not My Hat, and (finally) We Found A Hat — but Klassen’s knack with visual humor make them all pure comedy gold.

9781536229677 Mr. Fox’s Game of No! by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka

Young readers will love trying to beat Mr. Fox at his game. As Mr. Fox asks questions, you must answer with “No” even when the correct answer is “Yes!” Say the wrong thing, and you have to start the book from the beginning. This interactive and giggle-worthy picture book will have kids in stitches!

9780375866012 17 Things I’m Not Allowed to Do Anymore http://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/124091/17-things-im-not-allowed-to-do-anymore-by-jenny-offill-illustrated-by-nancy-carpenter/?ref=PRH06C9ECE222&aid=randohouseinc22957-20&linkid=PRH06C9ECE222 by Jenny Offill, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter

Your children will adore this book and it will make you very, VERY nervous. (Fair warning.) A young girl has begrudgingly created an illustrated list of 17 things that she’s never allowed to do again. 17 things that will have you wondering “WAIT, she actually did that stuff?!” The scenarios are so wicked, funny, and filled with brilliantly sadistic kid logic that you’ll find your children laughing way too hard and find yourself wondering, “Maybe I should’ve read them Goodnight Moon tonight.”

9780593616673 Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson, illustrated by Dan Santat

Nature lovers will laugh out loud at this absurd guide to fish and the reasons why they aren’t trustworthy creatures. From their diabolical eating habits to their highly questionable “schools,” readers will learn that fish are far less trustworthy than previously thought. The more harmless they appear, the more suspicious you need to be!

9780763641689 Interrupting Chicken by David Ezra Stein

This book, all about bedtime reading, might actually be too funny to read at bedtime. A little chicken wants her daddy to read her a bedtime story, but she can’t stand to watch her beloved fairy tale characters make mistakes. So she interrupts and interrupts and interrupts — all in an attempt to rewrite her favorite stories. Stein’s book shows kids that being an active participant in storytelling can be both exciting and very, very funny.

9780593690833 It Started with a P by Brittany Pomales, illustrated by Andrew Joyner

When King Liam has a dream that something starting with a P will ruin his birthday party, he banishes everything that begins with that letter. Suddenly, everything from pizza and piñatas to presents and people must go. Readers of all ages can’t help but chuckle at the silly king and his misguided attempt to save his birthday party by inadvertently ruining it.

9780803739086 Lion Lessons by Jon Agee

It’s common knowledge that there are seven steps to becoming a lion. (You didn’t know? Where have you been?) When a rather sheepish boy decides to train with a Lion Expert — that is, a lion — he’s put through his paces: Looking Fierce, Prowling Around, Roaring, Blowing Out That Luxurious Mane, and the like. Kids will love earning their own stripes (or roars?) with the ultimate knowledge that Looking Out for Your Friends is the bravest step of all.

9781664300507 Hank Goes Honk by Maudie Powell-Tuck, illustrated by Duncan Beedie

Hank is a rude, self-obsessed goose who interrupts conversations, pops other animals’ balloons, and only talks about himself. His rude behavior drives everyone else away. In an effort to make friends, Hank tries to improve his behavior. However, he soon realizes that bad habits are hard to break. Vibrant illustrations, hilarious noises, and rib-tickling humor will make this picture book a favorite for readers of all ages.

9781984852090 The Bear Ate Your Sandwich by Julia Sarcone-Roach

The cover alone is enough to get young readers laughing about this one. Listen, your sandwich is gone — a bear ate it! It was definitely a bear. No doubt about it, 100% a bear. The hilarious story of the bear’s journey to said sandwich is so absorbing, your kids won’t start wondering about a duplicitous narrator until the unexpected, uproarious end.

You might also like:

• Delightful Books for Kids Who Love Elephant & Piggie
• Picture Books With Twist Endings Kids Won’t See Coming
• Fun and Funny Picture Books by Celebrity Authors
• Clever Picture Books for Kids (and Their Parents)

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.

The post Legitimately Funny Books To Read Aloud With Your Kids appeared first on Brightly.

So which Roald Dahl book is perfect for your kid? From the budding poet to the reluctant reader, here are some favorite Dahl titles suited to all kinds of little personalities.

yes no For the Ultimate Book Lover … 9780425287675 Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

Matilda is one of the best books about school ever written, largely because it presents children with both the good and the bad behind modern education in a surprisingly even-handed way. While Miss Trunchbull and her horrid school are definitely the bad guys, Matilda is practically a poster child for the benefits of intellectual curiosity and self-guided reading (and Miss Honey shows kids that not all teachers are bad).

yes no For the Budding Poet … 9780142414828 Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

Revolting Rhymes is a fantastically funny poetry collection that shows aspiring young poets how to look at familiar things from a fresh and unique perspective. Dahl’s verses skewer classic fairy tales and ask readers to ruminate on unfamiliar questions like, “What if Cinderella didn’t like her prince?” or “Can you believe what a rotten little kid Goldilocks was?” If your young poet wants to learn how to question authority in the most lyrical way possible, this is the book for them.

yes no For the Prankster … 9780593349670 The Twits by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

The Twits is a classic that every kid should read, especially if they love pranks and quirky characters. Mr. and Mrs. Twit are awful people who hate everyone and everything — except for playing pranks on their pet monkeys. But when the monkeys get tired of the never-ending stream of not-so-funny pranks and cruel jokes, they devise a plan to get revenge on the Twits. Don’t miss the animated film coming to Netflix in June 2025!

yes no For the Kid Who Adores Animals … 9780451480002 The Enormous Crocodile by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

In this short but no less wonderful Dahl tale, the Enormous Crocodile schemes to catch some delicious children to fill his belly. Thinking himself very clever, he brags about his plans to the other animals of the jungle, who then make it their mission to stop him. Featuring a menagerie of animals like Humpy-Rumpy the Hippo, Trunky the Elephant, and Muggle-Wump the Monkey, this story will delight little animal lovers as they observe the heroic creatures put a stop to the Crocodile’s hilarious tricks.

yes no For the Movie Buff … 9780142410387 The BFG by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

If your kid won’t touch a book until they’ve seen the movie adaptation, convince them that they should take a (short) leap and read Dahl’s The BFG. Not only is it a beautiful and funny tale of a young girl befriending the world’s only kind giant, you can also enjoy Steven Spielberg’s movie version.

yes no For the Fantasy Reader … 9780451480798 James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

Named one of TIME Magazine‘s 100 Best Fantasy Books of All Time, this book is one of Dahl’s greatest. Young James is forced to live with his dreadful aunts after a rhino tragically kills his parents, but his bad luck turns around when he sets sail on a giant peach with an unlikely group of friends. It’s a most fantastically wonderful tale.

Fun fact: Dahl originally planned to write a story about a giant cherry, but changed it to James and the Giant Peach because they’re “prettier, bigger and squishier than a cherry.”

yes no For the Aspiring MasterChef Junior … 9780140378207 Roald Dahl’s Revolting Recipes by Roald Dahl, Felicity Dahl, and Josie Fison, illustrated by Quentin Blake, photographed by Jan Baldwin

Technically, Revolting Recipes was compiled by Dahl’s daughter, Felicity, after Dahl’s death, but the author did help create most of the recipes and always wanted to publish a cookbook based on the wild concepts from his many food-related tales. (It also features art by longtime Dahl illustrator Quentin Blake.) If your kid loves to cook, how can they pass up trying to make The Twits’ Bird Pie or Willy Wonka’s Lickable Wallpaper?

yes no For the Kid Who Prefers Reality Over Fantasy … 9780142413814 Boy by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

If your child has no patience for magical chocolate factories or flying glass elevators, they might enjoy some of Dahl’s nonfiction works, especially his memoir Boy: Tales of Childhood, a collection of truly fascinating, well-told anecdotes that follow Dahl from his youth to age 20. Or perhaps even the more obscure The Mildenhall Treasure, in which Dahl reports on the true story of a British farmer who uncovered a million dollar cache of ancient Roman silver in his field one day.

yes no For the Reluctant Reader … 9780140368376 The Vicar of Nibbleswicke by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

The Vicar of Nibbleswicke was published after Dahl’s death, but it truly speaks to Dahl’s love for children, language, and reading. The title character is a clergyman suffering from Back-to-Front Dyslexia, a condition that makes him say certain words backwards (to hilarious effect). Dahl and his collaborator Quentin Blake both donated their profits from the book to the Dyslexia Institute in London.

You might also like:

• Roald Dahl Printables & Activities
• Make ‘Em Laugh: Classic Comedies for Middle Graders
• Great Read-Aloud Books for Older Kids

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2018 and updated in 2025.

The post A Roald Dahl Book for <br>Every Kind of Kid appeared first on Brightly.

In January 2016, Stampy Cat released his first book — appropriately titled Stampy’s Lovely Book — which was cause for celebration for his millions of devoted fans and showed us that, even though Minecraft is all about digital worlds, the game has a growing presence in the publishing world as well. With that (and the game’s continued popularity) in mind, we put together this quick guide to the wide world of Minecraft books.

Note to Parents: If you’re struggling to understand what a Creeper or a Ghast is, you might want to check out some of these titles too.

yes no Books Every Minecraft Fan Needs on Their Shelf 9780593431832 Beware the Creeper! (Mobs of Minecraft #1) by Christy Webster, illustrated by Alan Batson

Even the youngest Minecraft players can learn a few tricks and tips with the help of this picture book. The story teaches readers the must-know info about creepers and how to defeat them. Check out the rest of the Mobs of Minecraft series for books about the skeleton, the mushroom, and the bee.
(Ages 3 – 7)

9780593497623 Minecraft Legends: A Hero’s Guide to Saving the Overworld by Mojang AB and The Official Minecraft Team

This must-have gaming manual gives readers the strategies for building, combat, and winning against the Piglin invasion. Every aspiring Minecraft hero needs this how-to manual on their shelf.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9780399593208 Minecraft: The Survivors’ Book of Secrets by Stephanie Milton

Have you ever heard of the Survivors? They’re a secret group of Minecraft experts who have managed to survive the game since the days of Alpha, and The Survivors’ Book of Secrets is their collective knowledge on how to play on Survival mode. With tips on how to set up a solid base and successfully defeat a crazy mob, this pocket-sized survival guide is a great gift for kids just getting into the game. It may just save their (Minecraft) life!
(Ages 8 – 12)

9781984818713 Guide to Minecraft Dungeons by Mojang AB and The Official Minecraft Team

Learn everything you need to know about Minecraft Dungeons with this extensive guide. The Villagers need your help to overthrow the Arch-Illager, and this how-to book from the experts at Mojang gives you the tips and tricks to make it happen.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9780593722497 The World of Minecraft by Mojang AB

Minecraft didn’t become the most popular game in the world by accident. Crack open this book to discover the history behind your favorite pastime. From its fledgling beginning in 2009 to the global phenomenon it is today, readers will learn about each milestone in the game’s history.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9780399593215 Minecraft: Exploded Builds: Medieval Fortress by Craig Jelley

Now any kid can be king of the castle! This step-by-step guide helps players design and build their own fortress, including everything from the turrets and throne rooms all the way down to the dungeons. The “exploded” diagrams show readers how the blocks fit together, as well as where they go and in what order. The book also offers ideas on how to customize your fortress, making it great for children who love to build but struggle to come up with their own ideas from scratch. Plus, fun facts about medieval times give this read an educational twist!
(Ages 8 – 12)

9780593984185 Minecraft: Survival Challenges by Mojang AB

Can you make it through all 30 survival challenges in this book? It’s jam-packed with tips and advice from experts to help players level up their abilities. Each challenge will make you a better Minecraft player and open a whole new way to play your favorite game.
(Ages 8 – 12)

yes no Books That Tell Stories in the Minecraft World 9780593807453 Minecraft Ironsword Academy Series by Caleb Zane Huett

Send your young gamer on an unforgettable adventure with the newest official Minecraft chapter book series! Morgan and Harper start attending Ironsword Academy Middle School, where they must navigate being the new kids and preventing the principal from shutting down the Minecraft server. And that’s nothing compared to the challenges they face in the game itself!
(Ages 6 – 9)

9780593808139 Minecraft Stonesword Saga Chapter Book Boxed Set (Minecraft Stonesword Saga) by Nick Eliopulos

This gift-worthy boxed set contains all six books in the Minecraft Stonesword Saga and is perfect for chapter book readers. Each story presents a new adventure and challenge for the characters to solve, both in the real world and inside the game. These action-packed stories will keep kids off screens while satisfying their itch for more gaming.
(Ages 6 – 9)

9781506741178 Minecraft Omnibus Volume 1 by Sfê R. Monster, illustrated by Sarah Graley

Graphic novel lovers will be thrilled to get their hands on this omnibus that includes the first three installments in the Minecraft graphic novel series. When Tyler moves to a new town, he connects with several new friends over their shared love of the game. They go on adventures, defeat monsters, and build their block world. Full-color illustrations and a thrilling plot will keep young readers glued to the page.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9780593972854 Minecraft: The Dragon by Nicky Drayden

With illagers threatening to take over her village, potion-maker Zetta sets out in search of a way to stop them. When she accidentally stumbles across the legendary ender dragon, she believes she has the answer to the village’s problem. But dragons are unpredictable, and Zetta could be setting her village up for an even bigger threat.
(Ages 10 and up)

yes no Books That Bring Minecraft Into the Real World 9780593901694 Minecraft Character Creator Sticker Book (Minecraft) by Random House

This Minecraft sticker puzzle book is the perfect screen-free activity to keep your kid occupied with their favorite pastime. With over 200 stickers and plenty of puzzles to solve, Minecraft mobs to customize, and characters to build, this book will be your kid’s go-to boredom buster.
(Ages 6 – 9)

9780593896570 Minecraft 2-in-1: The Official Would You Rather/The Official Joke Book (Minecraft) by Random House

Kids will giggle and laugh their way through these two official Minecraft books. With plenty of jokes and silly scenarios, young Minecraft lovers can enjoy hours of fun. On a side note, these books are an excellent addition to sleepovers, parties, or game nights.
(Ages 6 – 9)

9780593579923 The Crafter’s Kitchen: An Official Minecraft Cookbook for Young Chefs and Their Families by Mojang AB, Danica Davidson, Emma Carlson Berne, and Victoria Granof

Make 60 delicious recipes inspired by the different biomes in Minecraft. Make pasta in the plains, applesauce snacking cake in the forest, and key lime pie in the swamps. Whether you have a hankering for something savory or sweet, main dish or dessert, this book has plenty of inspiration to keep you fed and happy.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9781609805753 Minecraft: The Unlikely Tale of Markus “Notch” Persson and the Game That Changed Everything by Daniel Goldberg and Linus Larsson

If you’re looking for a way to connect your child’s passion for Minecraft to the “real world,” you might want to introduce them to this engaging true story all about the creation of their favorite game. Who knows? Maybe hearing about how indie developer Markus Persson turned his homemade game into a global phenomenon might inspire them to create their own legendary gaming empire one day.

You might also like:

• Terrific Books That Introduce Programming to Children
• 4 Things To Do Before Getting Your Child a Phone
• Stack, Wreck, and Rebuild: Exciting Books To Get Kids Building
• Boredom-Busting Activity Books for Kids

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.

The post Minecraft Books for Kids appeared first on Brightly.

It’s a strange dilemma. While I completely understand why a young person might prefer to read about a rogue tween wizard as opposed to James K. Polk, the 11th U.S. President, there are just so many nonfiction books for kids that will make their developing jaws drop in awe.

As the adults in their lives, it’s up to us to share with them the best works of nonfiction we can find and show them how a real story will blow their minds. If your tween is only fond of fiction, here are some truly captivating books for 4th, 5th, and 6th graders that will make them fall in love with its counterpart.

no no 9780803740808 The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer

Before they watch the movie adaptation on Netflix, you might want to have your kids read this young reader’s edition of Kamkwamba’s true story; it is so unbelievable that they might think it was all just a Hollywood invention. Adapted from the New York Times bestseller, this middle school memoir introduces us to William Kamkwamba, who embarked on an improbable quest to bring electricity to his rural village in Malawi by building a homemade, fully functioning windmill. The book is equal parts haunting and uplifting, and will convince your kids that they can accomplish anything.

9781426375873 Weirdest Animals on the Planet by National Geographic Kids

The earth is home to many odd animals, and this book introduces tween readers to some of the most bizarre. From the bottom of the ocean to the polar ice caps, kids will learn about the weirdest and strangest animals from all corners of the earth.

9780593707913 The Big Book of Barf by Vicky Lorencen, illustrated by Remy Simard

Tweens will love diving into these weird and wonderful facts about their bodies. With stomach-churning history, tips, and humor, this fascinating book will keep kids coming back for more. They’ll be an expert on barf before you know it!

9780593847275 Mission to Mars by DK

Send your aspiring astronaut on an interactive adventure with this “you choose” style book! Readers set out on a mission to Mars, make choices along the way, and struggle to survive in the harsh environment of the red planet. This is the perfect nonfiction read for adventure-loving kids!

9798889641414 Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls (New Edition) by Rebel Girls

The new edition of this wildly popular book includes 12 all-new stories about real women who reached for the stars. Tween readers will love learning about these fearless women and their accomplishments, whether they were scientists, activists, or celebrities. With over 100 stories to read, your tween will have plenty of role models to look up to.

9780525582168 It’s Trevor Noah: Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

This funny, unforgettable memoir from the host of the Daily Show does an incredible job of explaining to young readers what it feels like to grow up torn between two cultures. Noah was born and raised in South Africa. He was a mixed-race child living in a country where it was literally illegal for mixed-race children to exist. Noah’s memoir is insightful, honest, and (against all odds) hysterical.

9780593120316 History Smashers Series by Kate Messner, illustrated by various artists

Take a trip (or several) through history with this fascinating series that tackles everything from recycling scams to the Underground Railroad. Tween readers will uncover myths, lies, and secrets behind some of history’s most important events.

9780593385920 Who HQ Graphic Novels by Who HQ

Graphic novel lovers will enjoy reading the Who HQ Graphic Novels series. These full-color, nonfiction books cover events and people from history, such as the American Civil War, the 14th Dalai Lama, Bruce Lee, and Marie Antoinette. Whether your tween is interested in California’s gold rush or Neil Armstrong’s trip to the moon, they’ll find fascinating and informative graphic novels to feed their obsession.

9781782692737 Bandit’s Daughter by Simon Mason, illustrated by Amerigo Pinelli

The True Adventures series features stories about real people who defied the odds, risked everything, and accomplished great things. Bandit’s Daughter is about the teenage daughter of a legendary outlaw who challenges his would-be assassin to one-on-one combat. The kingdom’s fate lies in the balance as the kung fu prodigy fights for her father’s life.

9780593754948 TIME for Kids: Amazing Athletes by James Buckley, Jr.

Sports enthusiasts will love this book featuring 101 of today’s greatest athletes from prolific nonfiction author James Buckley, Jr. Tween readers can learn about the careers of athletes like Travis Kelce, Simone Biles, and Caitlin Clark. It’s an excellent addition to any young athlete’s reading stack.

9781683693918 Kid Musicians by Robin Stevenson, illustrated by Allison Steinfeld

Young musicians will love reading about the childhoods of their favorite singers. From Stevie Wonder to Taylor Swift, readers will learn about their idols’ upbringing, inspirations, and how they rose to fame. These entertaining stories balance humor with facts and inspiration — the perfect combination for young readers!

9780593888995 96 Facts About Mr. Beast by Arie Kaplan, illustrated by Risa Rodil

Activate your tween’s inner beast with this book of facts about YouTuber, businessman, and media personality Mr. Beast. Readers will find interesting facts, quizzes, and activities featuring their favorite viral YouTube star in this book.

9781984812759 Disaster Strikes! by Jeffrey Kluger

There are so many books that teach kids about the expansive majesty of outer space, but there aren’t nearly as many that make it clear that space can also be dangerous. This is a terrific look at some of the most harrowing stories of the American and Russian space programs’ early days. Kluger expertly educates his readers about the science behind the missions, while making them feel like a fly on the wall as everything goes wrong.

9780525518402 My Corner of the Ring by Jesselyn Silva

Jesselyn Silva has one of those remarkable life stories that will make kids say, “Wait, she’s my age?!” In her inspiring memoir, this 12 year old recounts her struggle to break into the world of boxing while battling centuries of gender stereotypes about “hitting a girl.” Throughout it all, Silva stays upbeat and focused-making it clear that if she can strive to become an Olympian, anyone in middle school can face their own problems, too. Any kid, regardless of gender, will love this ode to girl power.

9780451480286 The Thrifty Guide to Medieval Times by Jonathan W. Stokes, illustrated by Xavier Bonet

How can a kid not love a book with the subtitle “A Handbook for Time Travelers”? This ingenious history book parodies the structure of modern travel guides, giving kids clever insights into medieval life in the form of travel advice. How do you avoid the plague? Why are people so into jousting? Part of The Thrifty Guides series, this book brings the past to life by presenting it in a hilariously contemporary fashion. It’s a fantastic reminder that knights and serfs were people just like us.

You might also like:

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2019 and updated in 2025.

The post 15 Great Nonfiction Books for Tweens appeared first on Brightly.

If you want to convince your kid to spend a little less time working on their brackets and a little more time brushing up on their reading, we’re here for you. From biographies on superstars like Caitlin Clark and Stephen Curry to action-packed stories about the game, here are 14 books that should grab the interest of any young NBA hopeful.

no no 9780593386040 I Have a Superpower by Stephen Curry, illustrated by Geneva Bowers

NBA Champion Stephen Curry draws from his experiences as an underdog to deliver an inspirational message for kids. He shows readers how they can use hard work and perseverance to overcome barriers to their goals. This basketball-themed book is perfect for encouraging children to dream big.
(Ages 4 – 7)

9781536219777 Basketball Town by Scott Rothman, illustrated by Darnell Johnson

Maxwell is obsessed with basketball, so he’s thrilled when he wakes up in an alternate universe where everyone plays b-ball all day, every day. He works on his skills and makes his way to the Championship game, where he and his teammates must present a united front to win. Basketball fans will enjoy the game-related lingo and action-packed story.
(Ages 4 – 8)

9780425289402 The Half-Court Hero by Mike Lupica

Eight-year-old twins Zach and Zoe are pros at multitasking: specifically, when it comes to solving mysteries and playing sports. In The Half-Court Hero, the dynamic duo can’t help but notice that someone is slowly and secretly restoring their summer league’s rundown court. Who could it be? And how will the team fare in playoffs?
(Ages 6 – 9)

9780593526156 Beyond the Game: LeBron James by Andrew Maraniss, illustrated by DeAndra Hodge

Newly independent readers will love this series that spotlights exemplary athletes and their accomplishments on and off the court. From championships to activism, kids will learn about the causes that LeBron James champions and how he uses his position as an athlete and role model to improve the world. If you like this book, check out the other books in this series, including Beyond the Game: Maya Moore.
(Ages 6 – 9)

9781623543723 If Lin Can by Richard Ho, illustrated by Huynh Kim Liên and Phùng Nguyên Quang

Anyone who has ever been told they can’t achieve their dreams will connect with the star of this story—basketball trailblazer Jeremy Lin. Driven by a series of questions posed to the reader, this picture-book biography traces Jeremy Lin’s uphill battle as the first American of Asian descent to play in the NBA. A book that Kirkus calls “A slam dunk choice for role modeling.”
(Ages 7 – 10)

9780375872761 Mason Dixon: Basketball Disasters by Claudia Mills, illustrated by Guy Francis

Fourth-grader Mason is what some might call disaster-prone, so he’s not thrilled when his parents insist he join the basketball team — and he’s doubly un-thrilled when his dad volunteers to coach. Somehow, Mason isn’t even the worst player on this team of misfits, and soon they’re going up against Mason’s school bully, Dunk. Prepare to cheer hard for the home team.
(Ages 7 – 10)

9780593382462 Stephen Curry: The Official Graphic Novel by Josh Bycel and Rich Korson, ilustrated by Damion Scott

Sports enthusiasts will love this graphic novel about Stephen Curry’s rise to NBA fame. As a new recruit, nobody believed that Stephen had much to offer. However, through hard work and perseverance, Stephen proved his doubters wrong and became one of the greatest shooters in basketball history. This book is the first official title in a planned series about sports heroes.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9780593430477 We Are Big Time (A Graphic Novel) by Hena Khan, illustrated by Safiya Zerrougui

This inspiring sports tale is based on a true story about an all-girl, hijab-wearing basketball team. It celebrates the power of teamwork, breaking cultural stereotypes, and owning one’s unique identity. Fans of graphic novels like Roller Girl or The Crossover will love this book.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9781536231953 Hoops: A Graphic Novel by Matt Tavares

New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Matt Tavares shares a heartfelt and inspiring story in his debut graphic novel. It’s about a girls’ basketball team in 1975 Indiana with no money, transportation, or jerseys. However, their grit and perseverance took them from one victory to the next. Based on a true story, this book offers a peek into the ongoing struggle for women’s rights and equality in sports.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9780593385920 Who Is the Man in the Air?: Michael Jordan by Gabe Soria and Who HQ, illustrated by Brittney Williams

Michael Jordan is undisputedly the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) of basketball. His performance during the 1997 NBA finals stands out as an example of his unfailing determination. This action-packed graphic novel retells the game’s events and how Michael Jordan refused to let a mysterious illness keep him from competing. Full-color illustrations and a fast-paced narrative make it a must-read for every basketball fan.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9780593225707 Who Was Kobe Bryant? by Ellen Labrecque and Who HQ, illustrated by Gregory Copeland

Young basketball fans can learn about Kobe Bryant, his legacy, awards, and championship moments in this biography. From his draft into the NBA and through 20 seasons with the Lakers, readers will discover how Kobe became a superstar. Easy-to-read text and plenty of illustrations make this an excellent choice for young readers wanting to learn about this legendary player.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9798217049172 Who Is Caitlin Clark? by Meri-Jo Borzilleri and Who HQ, illustrated by Gregory Copeland

Caitlin Clark is the NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer, across both men and women’s basketball. Since her college career, she has helped put women’s basketball in the spotlight, bringing in over 14 million viewers to watch her playoff games in April of 2024. Now a point guard for the Indiana Fever, learn about Clark’s inspiring rise to basketball fame in this Who HQ Now biography.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9780385753531 The Sixth Man (The Triple Threat 2) by John Feinstein

Book two of The Triple Threat series finds Alex Meyer optimistic about the team’s prospects this season. There’s a new kid on the team, Max Bellotti, and he’s good. Like, really good. But Alex seems to be the only one excited to welcome Max: for one, he’s a freshman stealing the spotlight; for two, he’s openly gay. Tensions on the team escalate to school-board controversy in this socially conscious read that still packs plenty of on-court action.
(Ages 10+)

9780142426500 True Legend by Mike Lupica

Bestselling sportswriter Lupica introduces us to 15-year-old Drew “True” Robinson, a basketball prodigy and NBA prospect who has let his success go to his head. But when he befriends an angry former basketball star on a local playground, True begins to realize the value of humility and teamwork. A compelling novel filled with dynamic sports sequences that young basketball fans will love.
(Ages 10+)

You might also like:

• Inspiring Children’s Books Starring Female Athletes
• Nonfiction Books Kids Will Actually Read
• 20 Uniquely Appealing Books for 13- and 14-Year-Old Boys

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.

The post 14 Slam-Dunk Kids’ Books About Basketball appeared first on Brightly.

But that doesn’t mean it’s the only great graduation book — there are many other tremendous titles about moving onward and upward that are ideally suited for celebrating your child’s big graduation day, particularly their elementary school graduation. Because, make no mistake, moving from elementary to middle school is a BIG DEAL.

So, if you want to reward your fifth or sixth-grade reader with a terrific book for their elementary send-off — and if your relatives have already bought them a copy of Oh, The Places You’ll Go! — here are perfect, age-appropriate gift books to mark the occasion.

no no 9780593711552 Unstoppable Us, Volume 1: How Humans Took Over the World by Yuval Noah Harari, illustrated by Ricard Zaplana Ruiz

Graduating from elementary school is a big step in any child’s life, and this book celebrates the significant milestones in humanity. Kids are naturally curious, and this book will answer many of their questions about where people came from, how society formed, and how technology shaped our world. This fascinating book is a must-have!

9780593353059 Never Grow Up by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

What if you never had to grow up? People who grow up have to deal with boring, not-so-fun things, but it doesn’t have to be that way! Take Roald Dahl’s advice and “just look at all the very smartest, scientists and famous artists…Ignored the sign that said NO WAY, and went & did it anyway.” Dahl’s message reminds kinds of all ages to remain curious and foster a lifelong commitment to learning.

9780593448977 Catch a Crayfish, Count the Stars by Steven Rinella, illustrated by Max Temescu

Whether your kid loves the outdoors or you want to encourage them to get outside, this book can help. Renowned outdoorsman Steven Rinella shows young readers many activities they can do in nature, from spearing frogs to building a shelter. It’s the perfect gift for any kid with an adventurous spirit!

9780593379967 Black Boy Joy edited by Kwame Mbalia

Gift your kid a heavy dose of happiness on their graduation day with this collection of stories about Black boyhood from critically acclaimed authors. The stories range in subject from realistic fiction to science fiction, making it an excellent gift for any reader. The short, upbeat stories make this bestselling book a favorite with young readers everywhere.

9780525514381 Start Now! by Chelsea Clinton

Kids who want to make a difference in the world will appreciate this informative book from the #1 New York Times bestselling author, Chelsea Clinton. From helping endangered animals to dealing with bullies, this book answers kids’ questions about growing up and finding their purpose.

9780525580652 Seuss-isms! by Dr. Seuss

For the kid who has grown up reading Dr. Seuss, this book is a wise and wonderful trip down memory lane. A collection of illustrations and Seuss snippets pulled from his most beloved titles, Seuss-isms offers life advice on topics like growing up, success, and love. Add a personal touch to this gift book by having family and teachers write in their own special advice for the graduate.

9781984813961 Patchwork by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Corinna Luyken

Beloved author Matt de la Peña inspires young readers in this story told in verse, showcasing the diverse and intricate nature of children. Highlighting who they are today has the potential to shape their future in powerful ways.

9780553521405 The Last Fifth Grade of Emerson Elementary by Laura Shovan

Many of the other books on this list offer optimistic wishes or funny sentiments on the occasion of a school graduation, but this soulful, perceptive wonder takes another approach, instead trying to capture the real emotions, aspirations, and anxieties of a group of fifth graders who just found out their beloved elementary school will be closing after they end their year — making them the school’s LAST-ever fifth grade class. Shovan’s text takes the form of a poetry journal the students keep throughout the school year, and their verses, all composed in distinct voices, speak volumes about each kid’s concerns about moving on to middle school. If your kid has poetry in their soul, this is the graduation book for them.

9780593378298 Honest June by Tina Wells, illustrated by Brittney Bond

In this precious story, June is starting Middle School and aims to be the perfect student and friend. So much so, her fairy godmother decides to cast a spell for her to only tell the truth! In hopes that she will learn to go by her own will and not only please those around her. The pressure starts to build for June as figures out how to attend to her new responsibilities and also tend to herself.

9780843113495 Graduation Mad Libs https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/295426/graduation-mad-libs-by-roger-price/9780843113495/?ref=PRH06C9ECE222&aid=randohouseinc22957-20&linkid=PRH06C9ECE222 by Roger Price

Looking for a light-hearted and silly gift for your graduate? Mad Libs are word-filled fun! From commencement speeches to party time, your new graduate will love filling in the blanks and cracking up at the hilarious stories.

9781580891042 Last Day Blues by Julie Danneberg, illustrated by Judy Love

If your elementary school grad is REALLY attached to their teacher, they’ll definitely connect with this sweet, good-humored picture book about a class that’s worried sick over how much their teacher, Mrs. Hartwell, will miss them after they leave for the summer. It’s a fun read acknowledging the emotions that surface at the finish of a school year, and a nice reminder that teachers have lives beyond their classrooms as well.

9780399581106 Rad Girls Can by Kate Schatz, illustrated by Miriam Klein Stahl

Commemorate their most recent of many more accomplishments with Rad Girls Can, a compendium of fifty stories about girls and young women who made a remarkable difference in the world by the time they turned twenty. Featuring familiar names like Anne Frank and Misty Copeland paired with names we should all learn — like Trisha Prabhu, who invented an anti-cyberbullying app — this collection inspires both big ideas and everyday heroics.

9781536212587 Merci Suárez Changes Gears by Meg Medina

Merci is starting the sixth grade, and although she is confident and determined, she begins to face numerous challenges when she realizes how different she is from other students at her private school. Follow along as she navigates the complexities of friendships, family, and societal pressures. Also available in Spanish Merci Suárez se pone las pilas.

9780394800936 My Book About Me by ME Myself by Dr. Seuss, illustrated by Roy McKie

Moving from elementary school to middle school is a big deal! Why not create a book that perfectly captures this moment in time? With My Book About Me by ME Myself, kids will love filling in their own answers to all of the silly prompts from Dr. Seuss, and parents will love having a record of their child at this very fun age!

9780553535174 The Golden Compass Graphic Novel, Complete Edition by Philip Pullman

There are few literary worlds as fascinating as those that Philip Pullman created in his Golden Compass trilogy, and now young readers can fully immerse themselves in Lyra’s epic journey through the full-color graphic novel adaptation that contains all three volumes in one. Visually stunning and accessible without losing any of Pullman’s masterful storytelling, this book sets an appropriately adventurous tone for young readers looking to the next step of their journeys.

9781536205367 Flights of Fancy by Various

Now’s the perfect time to fan the flames of your child’s creativity, and who better to encourage young writers and artists than some of the most legendary authors and illustrators in today’s children’s literature scene? In this exciting anthology, readers learn tips from the likes of Quentin Blake (the illustrator of Roald Dahl’s books), Lauren Child (of Charlie and Lola fame), and more. Show your graduate just how much you admire their creative spirit!

9780525479314 Positively Pooh: Timeless Wisdom from Pooh by A. A. Milne

For fans of the infinitely lovable Pooh Bear (which is to say, all of us), give them the gift of the timeless wisdom gathered in Positively Pooh. Titles like “For When You’re in a Tight Spot” and “For Those Bothersome Days” evoke the classic, unflappable mindset we all know and love, and the original quotes and whimsical illustrations come together with the comfort of a hot cup of tea — or a warm jar of honey, whichever you prefer.

9781524738228 Calling All Minds by Temple Grandin

In Calling All Minds, world-famous inventor and autism advocate Temple Grandin invites young readers to approach the world with a curious mind, a perpetual sense of wonder, and a willingness to fail — and then try again, with an extra oomph of imagination. With twenty-five project ideas, fascinating stories from Grandin’s life, and scientific facts they won’t believe, this book is a cleverly disguised guide to living that will steer new grads toward a path of success.

9780147514325 Puffin Hardcover Classics Box Set by Various

A glorious box set fit for the most auspicious of occasions, this Puffin Hardcover Classics collection is an elegant token for the sophisticated reader (I use that adjective lightly). Including six childhood favorites — A Little Princess, Anne of Green Gables, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Secret Garden, The Wind in the Willows, and Peter Pan — the neatly bound spines evoke those hallowed halls of middle school that await after another long, book-filled summer.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2016 and updated in 2024.

The post Oh, The Places They’ll Go! <br> Gift Books for Elementary School Graduates appeared first on Brightly.

All over the world, kids as young as five and six are learning how to write their own software code, which is AMAZING. Some are self-taught and some are learning it in computer science courses at school, but regardless of how they’re introduced to it, programming code has become something children are interested in, and that’s very, very cool. And who can blame them? What kid wouldn’t want to learn how to make their own video game, or design their own Minecraft mod? Coding has become THE cool new language that kids are dying to learn. (Take that, Latin!)

So, if you think your game-loving youngster might also love learning how to make their own games or code their own programs, here are some wonderful books that introduce kids to the basics of coding, programming, and writing their own software. You can thank us later when they grow up to become technology billionaires.

no no 9781623543181 How to Explain Coding to a Grown-Up by Ruth Spiro, illustrated by Teresa Martínez

From the bestselling author of the Baby Loves Science series comes an educational (and funny) picture book about coding. Readers of all ages will learn the basics of computer programming, from hardware to algorithms.

9781465459732 My First Coding Book by Kiki Prottsman

Children will love this screen-free introduction to basic programming concepts. With interactive elements like puzzles and games, this sturdy interactive board book is an excellent way to familiarize children with coding principles.

9781593278991 ScratchJr Coding Cards by Marina Umaschi Bers and Amanda Sullivan

With the help of this card deck, even young children can learn to code in ScratchJr, a free, simplified coding program. The 75 cards encourage children to get creative, think through problems, and have fun learning to code. Older kids (ages 7-10) using Scratch will enjoy the Official Scratch Coding Cards by Natalie Rusk and THE SCRATCH TEAM.

9781465462336 DK Findout! Coding by DK

Fact-loving kids will enjoy this trivia-filled book about coding and how it shapes our world. From laptops to traffic lights, someone programmed everything to work. Young readers will learn about the people, inventions, and coding behind everyday items.

9781465444820 DK Coding Workbooks by DK

Does your kid like getting their hands dirty rather than just following along in a book? If that’s the case and they have an interest in coding, you might want to try one of DK’s awesome interactive coding workbooks. Each one offers a collection of exercises and projects designed to get kids using the concepts they’re learning, reinforcing key coding concepts in a very hands-on way. Check out Coding in Scratch: Games Workbook and Coding in Scratch: Projects Workbook.

9780823446285 Lucy Lopez: Coding Star by Claudia Mills, illustrated by Grace Zong

Reading fictional stories about STEM topics is an excellent way to get kids interested in them. In this book, Lucy discovers a talent for coding and joins an after-school club. The only problem is that her older sister also belongs to the club and is unhappy about Lucy joining. The sisters must learn to work around (and with) each other so they can both pursue their passion for coding.

9781718503021 Python for Kids by Jason R. Briggs

Scratch isn’t the only programming language kids are experimenting with these days. Python is another popular one, but most higher-level Python guides are about as exciting as tax-code documentation. Fortunately, this book really bends over backwards to make its information digestible and visually appealing to nervous new Python users. Briggs keeps the tone irreverent throughout, finding intriguing ways to keep kids’ interest while talking about software coding concepts. A very well-executed guide to something very complex!

9781465477347 Coding Projects in Scratch by John Woodcock

Coding Projects in Scratch offers 18 creative projects with step-by-step instructions that help kids learn essential coding basics. What kinds of stuff can they make? They’ll learn to code characters, animations, and sound effects. Today they’re coding a dinosaur dance party; tomorrow… who knows? Other books in this series include Coding Games in Scratch and Coding Games in Python.

9781536210309 Get Coding 2: Build Five Computer Games Using HTML and JavaScript by David Whitney, illustrated by Duncan Beedie

HTML and JavaScript are two of the most common computer languages and can code things like games, websites, and programs. This book will guide tweens through coding classic games for the computer. Kids can use the skills learned as a launchpad for customization and original games.

9781718500310 The Coding Workbook by Sam Taylor

You don’t need a computer to build a website with this interactive workbook. Using a pencil (and the occasional eraser), kids will learn about HTML and CSS and how to use those computer languages to build a website from the ground up — no screens required!

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2016 and updated in 2023.

The post Kids Who Code: <br>Terrific Books That Introduce Programming to Children appeared first on Brightly.

Maybe it was caused by tedious weeks spent analyzing T.S. Eliot’s “The Waste Land” in high school Lit classes, or by awkward nights in coffee houses watching college students use free verse as a cringe-worthy alternative to therapy, but in my youth, poetry always felt impenetrable to me. And that can be a pretty common reaction to poetry for parents and children alike.

But once you actually start reading poetry with your kids, you quickly discover how poetry can be an amazing tool for getting your children excited about reading. Poets like Dr. Seuss and Shel Silverstein teach kids that, when assembled correctly, even in ways that don’t seem to make sense, words can make a person feel a ridiculously deep range of emotions, and kids LOVE THAT.

If your kid isn’t sure poetry is for them, here are some books that do a fantastic job of making poetry stop looking academic and start looking very, very cool.

no no 9780593224311 Eric Carle’s Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star and Other Nursery Rhymes by Eric Carle

Nursery rhymes are often a baby’s first introduction to poetry. With familiar characters and vibrant illustrations, this nursery rhyme collection from beloved children’s book creator Eric Carle is a must-have for any baby’s home library.
(Ages 0 – 3)

9780448456249 Kindergarten, Here I Come! by D.J. Steinberg, illustrated by Mark Chambers

Experience an entire year of kindergarten with this bestselling collection of lively and humorous poems. From the first day to the last, this book takes readers through the ups and downs of friendships, learning, and moving up. Check out the rest of the Here I Come series for poetry about holidays, seasons, special occasions, and more.
(Ages 3 – 5)

9781536224979 Ready for Spaghetti: Funny Poems for Funny Kids by Michael Rosen, illustrated by Polly Dunbar

Immerse your child in these sweet and silly poems that celebrate the day-to-day events in their life. Whether it’s an ode to a soft-boiled egg or a poem celebrating the night sky, this book is both giggle-worthy and awe-inspiring. It’s perfect for reading aloud to your child! 
(Ages 3 – 7)

9780593203224 Change Sings by Amanda Gorman, illustrated by Loren Long

Inspire your little reader to become a force for change with this picture book from presidential inaugural poet Amanda Gorman. The story follows a girl with her guitar as she moves around her city, encouraging people to stand together and make a difference.
(Ages 4 – 8)

9780679805274 Oh, The Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss

I know this is a popular graduation gift, but Seuss’s whimsical, heartfelt verses offer such an optimistic and aspirational look into the future that I think kids should be introduced to Oh, The Places You’ll Go! as early as possible.
(Ages 7+)

9781595142955 Zorgamazoo by Robert Paul Weston

Kids who loved reading Dr. Seuss on repeat will find a familiar and welcome experience in this middle grade novel. They’ll love the zany rhymes, nonsense words, and humor in this story about a girl who spots an unusual creature in the subway. 
(Ages 8 – 12)

9781536201161 Counting in Dog Years and Other Sassy Math Poems by Betsy Franco, illustrated by Priscilla Tey

Most people wouldn’t think that poetry and math belong in the same paragraph. Still, they mesh together beautifully in this book for middle grade readers. Reluctant mathematicians will find bouncy and vibrant poems about fractions, multiplication, time, and more. Kids will have so much fun reading poetry that they won’t mind absorbing a few math facts.
(Ages 8 – 12)

9780142414828 Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

What if every fairy tale you knew — “Cinderella,” “Snow White,” the works — were way more bloody and bizarre than you’d ever imagined? That’s the sales pitch that should get any kid excited to read Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes, his hilariously dark take on the cruel realities behind our favorite fables.
(Ages 6 – 8)

9780147515827 Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Poetry can take many forms and, in this case, an award-winning memoir in verse. Jacqueline Woodson’s eloquent words deliver her childhood stories in a way that is both accessible and mesmerizing for young readers. Kids will devour her poems about growing up, overcoming challenges, and finding her purpose.
(Ages 10+)

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2023.

The post Poetry Is Actually Kinda Cool: <br>Great Poetry Books for Reluctant Poetry Readers appeared first on Brightly.

Or perhaps it is a legitimate, actually-written-by-an-author book, but it’s something that you find completely confounding – say a 500-page encyclopedia of sharks – and you just can’t understand why your son or daughter would rather spend hours reading marine biology fact sheets than travel through Narnia or explore Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory.

I’m here to tell you all is not lost. If your kid’s reading choices make your eyes roll and your aesthetic sensibilities cringe in horror, here are some things to keep in mind:

Convincing any child to read independently is a victory. If your kid is seeking out books to read on their own, even if those books stink, you’ve already won the important battle.

There’s no accounting for taste. Ask yourself, “Is this book terrible or do I just not like it personally?” Parents have to account for personality differences with their children, just like they do with adults. It might not be a bad book. It just might not be your cup of tea.

It’s okay to say “no.” If the book is actually a terrible, socially reprehensible piece of reading material, it is totally fine to tell your kid, “No, you can’t read that.” That’s a parent’s prerogative and you should feel free to use it.

Everyone needs guilty pleasures. I have a teacher friend who calls certain kinds of kids’ books “Doritos reads.” That means that they’re the reading equivalent of snack food. They’re tasty and they satisfy cravings, but they can’t make up your whole diet. As a parent, you need to make sure that your kids have a balanced reading diet. Sure, they can have the occasional “Doritos read,” provided that the rest of their reading diet is a bit more substantial.

You should glean what insights you can. If your kid loves reading awful books about robots, search for critically acclaimed, librarian-beloved books about robots and share them. Maybe your child is embracing bad books about their favorite subjects because they simply don’t know that good ones exist.

They will come around eventually. Maybe you can’t change what your kids read, but if you keep exposing them to great works of children’s literature, if you’re initiating discussions about what they’re reading, and if you’re encouraging them to explore their interests through reading, they’ll have all the tools they need to become the amazing, engaged readers of the future that you want them to be. Even if you’re currently embarrassed to be seen with them at your local library.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2023.

The post Why It’s Okay That Your Kids Want To Read Books You Hate appeared first on Brightly.

It’s time to get your little stand-ups working on their material. Because, even though kids are natural comedians, there’s only so many times a parent can pretend they don’t know “What’s brown and sticky?” (“A stick,” I replied to my daughter for the 50th time. “We both know it’s a stick.”)

If your child loves telling jokes, but they keep trotting out their tired old favorites, definitely introduce them to these side-splitting joke books that will provide little comedians with new material and keep your family laughing — honestly laughing — for weeks to come.

no no 9780593436035 Knock-Knock Jokes and Silly Stories for Kids by May B. Gigglin, illustrated by Jeremy Nguyen, foreword by Toby Price, contributions by Brightly

Knock-knock jokes have been around forever, and they’re a favorite among kids (and kids at heart). Young comedians and beginning readers will find enough knock-knock jokes in this official Brightly book to keep them giggling for hours. More mature readers will also find longer jokes and laugh-out-loud stories to add to their joke-telling arsenal.

9781629795539 Highlights Laugh Attack! Joke Books Series https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/series/8LA/highlightstm-laugh-attack-joke-books by Highlights

There’s a whole series of kid-friendly joke books from Highlights Magazine, home to one of my personal favorite comedy duos of all time, Goofus and Gallant. The newest addition to the series, Best Kids’ Jokes Ever!: Volume Two, has a fantastic selection of old-school, dad-joke knee-slappers. Because, c’mon, parents — it’s our job to teach the next generation, “What’s black and white and red all over?”

9780593522851 PUNcilmation: A Pencilmation Joke Book by Penguin Young Readers Licenses

Kids who can’t get enough of the popular YouTube animated series will be thrilled to get their hands on this official Pencilmation joke book! This book’s full-color artwork, familiar characters, and hilarious jokes will keep kids coming back for every groan-worthy pun.

9780451479303 Roald Dahl’s Whoppsy-Whiffling Joke Book https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/564748/roald-dahl-whoppsy-whiffling-joke-book-by-roald-dahl/ by Roald Dahl

There are few authors who kids love more than Roald Dahl. In books like Matilda and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, he just perfectly portrays how bizarre and hilarious the world must seem to children. In this riotous joke book inspired by his fantastic books, kids will learn the perfect jokes to entertain everyone from teachers like Miss Trunchbull or annoying neighbors like The Twits.

9780593379370 Minecraft: The Official Joke Book (Minecraft) by Dan Morgan, illustrated by Joe McLaren

Minecraft has never been this funny! Kids can fill their pixelated worlds with rib-tickling humor and punny jokes tailored to Minecrafters. Your kid will be the funniest one on the playground and in the game with eye-rolling zingers like this — Q: Why is grass dangerous? A: Because it’s full of blades!

9780515159325 Knock! Knock! Who Was There? https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/551485/knock-knock-who-was-there-by-brian-elling-illustrated-by-andrew-thomson/ by Brian Elling and Who HQ, illustrated by Andrew Thomson

You can find the Who Was? biography series in almost every elementary school across the nation. (Thanks to their iconic cover designs, my daughter still calls them the “Big Head” books.) But the geniuses at Who HQ aren’t satisfied with just teaching your kids about history — they want to teach them to be funny too. Kids and history teachers alike will adore this selection of puns and punchlines all about historical figures. (For example — Q: Why did Betsy Ross wear long dresses? A: To cover her colo-knees!)

9781644721285 Joke Puzzles Big Fun Activity Pad by Highlights

What’s better than a puzzle book? A hilarious puzzle book where every activity ends with a laugh! Young readers can stretch their knee-slapping muscles as they match the jokes to their punchlines, complete giggle-worthy stories, and solve side-splitting riddles.

9781524759964 Wee Hee Hee: A Collection of Pretty Funny Jokes and Pictures https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/553939/wee-hee-hee-by-wee-society/ by Wee Society

Did you know that telling jokes is linked to higher intelligence, creativity, sociability, empathy, and self-esteem in kids? It’s true. That’s one of many reasons why the creative studio Wee Society put together this collection of “pretty funny” jokes. And, believe me, they ARE pretty. This is definitely the best-looking joke book you’ve ever seen and it even gives kids tips on how to deliver the perfect punchline.

9780593436127 Funniest Illustrated Jokes for Kids! by Jeremy Nguyen

Aspiring comedians will love this fully illustrated joke book filled with age-appropriate humor. Once your kids have tried out all the jokes in the book, they can write and draw their own cartoons and one-liners! It’s the perfect way to engage reluctant readers and writers.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2018 and updated in 2022.

The post Stand Out at Stand-Up: <br>9 Truly Funny Joke Books for Kids appeared first on Brightly.

While those kinds of reference books can be invaluable to those expecting their first baby — and also pants-wettingly terrifying — they only address certain aspects of what it really means to be a parent.

Also, speaking from my own personal experience, most parenting books tend to be focused solely on the mother, which … I get. I do. I will not in any way try to argue that becoming a parent is equally hard for women and men. My personal transition into parenting was difficult, but it didn’t involve words like “gestation” or “mucus plug,” so, yes, moms win the “who had it harder” debate hands-down.

That said, it doesn’t mean things are easy for dads, so, because parenting books can be such a lifeline to nervous new parents, I think it’s wonderful when there are books out there for men that really speak to the “dad experience” specifically.

I thought I’d collect this list of wonderful books about both the logistics and the emotions of becoming a dad. If you know a nervous father-to-be, trust me, they will find some solace — or at least some commiseration — in these pages.

no no 9780143110262 Diaper Dude by Chris Pegula with Frank Meyer

Becoming a dad is a BIG lifestyle change for most men, so Chris Pegula has put together a fast, fun guide to help men make it through the baby years without freaking out. Pegula started the Diaper Dude brand, which makes dad-friendly baby products — speaking from experience, it’s SO nice to be able to buy a diaper bag now that doesn’t look like a big purse — and his message of how to become a father without losing one’s self-identity will speak to anxious soon-to-be dads everywhere.

9780143131373 Sleepless Nights and Kisses for Breakfast by Matteo Bussola

This book is just lovely. Bussola is an Italian illustrator and his book collects a series of brief, interconnected thoughts about fatherhood, all inspired by his experiences with his three daughters. His remembrances are funny, perceptive, and incredibly insightful. If a man wants to have an idea, a real idea of what it will feel like to become a father, Sleepless Nights will do the trick — Bussola’s voice reads like a candid best friend who takes you out for a drink and tells you, “Okay, this is what fatherhood is really like…”

9780593194416 A Dude’s Guide to Baby Size by Taylor Campus

Taylor Calmus takes an unconventional approach to expectant fatherhood in this hilarious guide to pregnancy for men. With humor and honesty, he guides dads-to-be through each stage of pregnancy, giving them fun facts, music recs, and advice every step of the way. Readers will appreciate his insights and authenticity as he explains the ups, downs, ins, and outs of supporting a pregnant partner and preparing for the big day.

9780143135647 The Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad by Shannon Carpenter

Shannon Carpenter pens a helpful guide to the wild world of becoming a stay-at-home dad — something more and more fathers are choosing. With humor, anecdotes, and practical advice on everything from cooking to mental health, this book offers fathers actionable ways to tap into their inner strengths and become the best parent possible. 

9780593436011 New Dad, Same Bad Jokes by Slade Wentworth

Every parent knows how challenging a baby’s first year is. This book offers new dads a break from the stress with a daily cringe-worthy joke, helpful advice, and space to record important moments in their child’s life. Besides blowing raspberries on your baby’s belly, this book will be the best part of your day.

9780593129661 Outdoor Kids in an Inside World by Steven Rinella

If you’d like to reduce screen time and increase your child’s sense of adventure in the outdoors, this bestselling book is a must-have. Outdoor expert Steven Rinella gives you a practical guide to getting outside and spending quality time with your family through camping, fishing, hunting, gardening, and more. 

9780767922494 Be the Coolest Dad on the Block by Simon Rose and Steve Caplin

People have certain expectations of dads. If you’re a dad, you need to know how to burp the alphabet; how to sing fun, inappropriate songs around a campfire; or how to tell the perfect “dad joke.” You also need to be able to hold yourself up as an authority on every topic known to man and, if you don’t know something, you need to be able to fake it until another adult who knows better shows up. But where do you learn all that? Fortunately, this book can help — Be the Coolest Dad on the Block offers an irreverent, engaging guide to how dads can reach their ultimate dad-ness and become the most fun father in their neighborhood.

9780425269244 When I First Held You edited by Brian Gresko

Trying to prepare yourself to become a father is a difficult experience. You can buy all the stuff and read all of the “how to” guides, but the emotional aspect of fatherhood … how do you prepare for that? One way — and, in my opinion, the best way — is by listening to other fathers tell their stories about what the experience meant for them. When I First Held You is an amazing resource for dads looking for those kinds of stories. Editor Brian Gresko has assembled 22 personal narratives from a selection of hugely talented writers — including Dennis Lehane, Lev Grossman, Andre Dubus III, Rick Moody, and more — who all do a beautiful job of bringing that emotional reality of becoming a dad to life.

9780744055207 Star Wars I Am Your Father by Dan Zehr

Calling all Star Wars dads and dads-to-be! This book is your hilarious geeky guide to fatherhood, told through lessons learned from Darth Vader and other pop culture fathers and father figures. Real-life dads and mentors will get their fill of laughs and practical advice in this one-of-a-kind parenting book.

9781592405527 Geek Dad by Ken Denmead

Tap into your imagination and make something unique with this bestselling parenting book. In it, Ken Denmead provides digital age-dads with techy crafts, projects, and science experiments they’ll love working on with their kids. It’s also worth exploring the other titles in this series, The Geek Dad: Book for Aspiring Mad Scientists and The Geek Dad’s Guide to Weekend Fun.

9781984880383 What Do You Say? by William Stixrud, PhD and Ned Johnson

Modern teens deal with many unique challenges, including social media, school stress, and friendship drama. Parents often struggle to comfort their children and offer support. The authors of The Self-Driven Child provide tools for parents wanting to communicate effectively, offer constructive feedback, give guidance, and establish boundaries. It’s a must-read for parents of digital-age teens.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2017 and updated in 2022.

The post Adventures in Fatherhood: 11 Unique Parenting Books for Dads appeared first on Brightly.

no no 9780525429500 Captain Jack and the Pirates by Peter Bently, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury

Ready for an adventure filled with imagination and fun? Jack, Zack, and Caspar get stranded on a deserted island, find treasure, and get captured by pirates. A tasty surprise ending makes this light-hearted pirate story an extra-sweet read.

9780593381809 How to Be a Pirate (LEGO) by Nicole Johnson, illustrated by Josh Lewis

Arr! LEGO lovers can’t get enough of sailing the high seas with Cecilia and her grandfather’s pirate crew in this Little Golden Book. Adorable Minifigures and pirate talk make this fun and humorous book a must-read for any aspiring pirate.

9781838740498 When I Was a Pirate by Tom Silson, illustrated by Ewa Poklewska-Koziello

A grandfather recounts his adventures as a swashbuckling pirate for his grandchildren in this exciting picture book. He tells them about spotting whales, finding treasure, and working on the ship. The rhyming text and vibrant illustrations keep young readers engaged and make this story an excellent read-aloud.

9781680102765 Octopants and the Missing Pirate Underpants by Suzy Senior, illustrated by Claire Powell

A pair of pirate underwear vanishes in this rib-tickling sequel to Octopants. Help Octopants and his friend Puffer Fish as they search all over town for the missing undies. Children will squeal with laughter when they find the underwear in an unlikely place.

9781632172464 CliFF the Failed Troll by Barbara Davis-Pyles, illustrated by Justin Hillgrove

Cliff the troll doesn’t feel like he belongs. He can’t build bridges, he can’t win a staring competition, and as a vegetarian, he is lousy at goat gobbling. Cliff would much rather be a pirate! Is pirate school where he truly belongs? This humorous and heartwarming book is all about feeling different and embracing our true selves.

9781680102758 Never Mess with a Pirate Princess! by Holly Ryan, illustrated by Sian Roberts

Never get between a princess and her favorite toy! When a pirate kidnaps her beloved teddy bear, Princess Prudence takes on the entire pirate crew. Young readers will adore this funny story about adventure, determination, and children’s special love for their toys.

9780763673994 Captain Beastlie’s Pirate Party by Lucy Coats, illustrated by Chris Mould

Most kids know that pirates smell terrible. Still, Captain Beastlie’s stench is on another level. He smells so badly that not even his crew wants to be around him. When his birthday arrives, the other pirates give the captain a gift everyone on the ship can appreciate.

9781465464736 DK Readers L2: Pirate Attack! by Deborah Lock

Kids interested in real-life pirates will devour this nonfiction leveled reader. They’ll learn about the legendary Captain Blackbeard and his crew as they patrol the ocean, attacking ships and stealing cargo. Photos and facts about pirate life make this book an excellent choice for beginning readers.

9780553538885 Pirate Pups! (Paw Patrol) by Golden Books, illustrated by Fabrizio Petrossi

Go on a swashbuckling treasure hunt with the puppies from PAW Patrol! Fans of the animated television series will love this adorable pirate-themed Little Golden Book.

9781536212167 The Pirates Are Coming! by John Condon, illustrated by Matt Hunt

Plot twists, humor, and exciting artwork make this salty spin on The Boy Who Cried Wolf a storytime favorite. A young boy repeatedly mistakes various boats for pirate ships and alerts his seaside village to the danger. No pirates appear, and the townspeople stop paying attention to him—just in time for actual pirates to show up.

9780823443598 The Word Pirates by Susan Cooper, illustrated by Steven Kellogg

The pirates in this book don’t steal gold and jewels; they plunder stories and eat the words. Thankfully, the Word Wizard knows how to stop the pirates from gobbling up all the stories. With the help of her trusty pen and a group of young friends, the Word Wizard shows the marauders that words are for reading, not eating.

9780763693305 Dinosaur Pirates! by Penny Dale

Join your favorite group of dinosaur friends as they set sail on a high seas adventure! With their ship filled with treasure, it doesn’t take long before the dino crew gets attacked by greedy pirates. They’ll have to work together to defeat the pirates and escape with their ship and treasure intact.

9780593434130 The Treasure of El Bravo (Santiago of the Seas) by Cynthia Ines Mangual, illustrated by Golden Books

If your child loves the television series, Santiago of the Seas, they’ll want to read the books, too. In this story, Santiago and his friends must track down and rescue a valuable piece of treasure from a notorious thief.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2022.

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no no 9780593202289 Viking in Love by Doug Cenko

Kids and parents will fall for this quirky love story about a Viking who must conquer his fear of the sea. It’s full of humor, monsters, kittens, blow-up pool toys, and unrequited love. This adorable picture book is perfect for reading on Valentine’s Day or any day of the year.

9781536204308 Love in the Library by Maggie Tokuda-Hall, illustrated by Yas Imamura

Based on actual events, this picture book gives readers a conventional love story in an unconventional location—an incarceration camp during WWII. Heartbreaking and heartwarming, this hopeful story shows us that beautiful things can happen even in terrible situations.

9781681375823 The Provensen Book of Fairy Tales edited and illustrated by Alice Provensen and Martin Provensen

When it comes to unconventional love stories, nothing beats a fairy tale. From magic kisses to banished princes, this collection of classic fairy tales has all the weird, bizarre, and unusual love stories you could ask for.

9780593616420 Mamá’s Panza by Isabel Quintero, illustrated by Iliana Galvez

For a young boy, his mother’s Panza holds a special place in his heart. It was his first home – and held him with warmth and love. Whenever he feels shy or needs a comforting place to rest Mamá’s panza is always there to embrace him. Mamá’s Panza beautifully celebrates the beauty and uniqueness of our bodies and bellies.

9780763680893 The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering

In this book, winner of the 2004 Newbery Medal, Kate DiCamillo introduces us to one of the most unlikely heroes in all of children’s literature — the minuscule, floppy-eared mouse, Despereaux, and his even-more-unlikely quest to prove his love for a human princess. As if a mouse attracting the attention of a princess wasn’t difficult enough, Despereaux also has to contend with the prejudices of a kingdom that despises rodents and an evil plot to banish Princess Pea to the castle’s dungeons. Despereaux’s story is both heartbreaking and inspirational, and his knightly, chivalrous love is simply beautiful to behold.

9780763645694 Bear in Love by Daniel Pinkwater, illustrated by Will Hillenbrand

The way to a bear’s heart is through his stomach. When a bear finds treats left outside his home, he thinks he has a secret admirer. With its adorable artwork and humorous mystery, this endearing love story will leave young readers smiling.

9781936140374 I’m in Love with a Big Blue Frog performed by Peter, Paul and Mary, lyrics by Leslie Braunstein, illustrated by Joshua S. Brunet

This book is adapted from a song that originated in the civil rights era, but the lesson is still essential today. It teaches young children about being respectful of uncommon and non-traditional romantic relationships. The colorful illustrations and timeless message make this book a must-read classic.

9781570619755 Alaska’s Snow White and Her Seven Sled Dogs by Mindy Dwyer

The story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves gets a distinct Alaskan twist in this fairy tale retelling. Set in the frigid North with sled dogs, an evil Ice Queen, poisoned peppermint drinks, and a handsome musher, this unusual story is perfect for fairy tale lovers.

9780553538045 Princess Hyacinth (The Surprising Tale of a Girl Who Floated) by Florence Parry Heide, illustrated by Lane Smith

This offbeat picture book, authored by the late great Florence Parry Heide, follows a young princess forced to hide an unusual talent and the one boy who loves her for exactly who she is. Princess Hyacinth just can’t stop floating into the air, causing her worried parents to lock her in the castle where she pines after a young boy named Boy, who expertly flies his kite in front of her window every day. But, when Hyacinth finally decides to cut loose and see how high she can really fly, Boy and his kite might be the only thing that can bring her back down to earth.

9781536208849 There’s a Dodo on the Wedding Cake by Wade Bradford, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes

Attend the strangest wedding ever with this wacky and hilarious picture book. In this sequel to There’s a Dinosaur on the 13th Floor, violinist Mr. Snore returns to the Sharemore Hotel for a wedding. It’s an unusual affair, and Mr. Snore finds himself defending the cake from being devoured by wild animals. Kids will love poring over the detailed illustrations, looking for hidden jokes, and learning that things aren’t always as they seem.

9780399186554 Hamster Princess: Whiskerella by Ursula Vernon

Kids that like to laugh will fall head-over-heels in love with this offbeat retelling of Cinderella. With mysterious princesses, overbearing mothers, unwanted magical spells, and not-so-evil stepsisters, this book turns the beloved fairy tale on its head. Kids will be in stitches as they read this madcap adventure.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2016 and updated in 2024.

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