Children’s Books Age 5–7 | Top Picks & Stories

Choosing Children’s Books Age 5–7: A Little Help Finding the Right Reads

Hello! I’m Catriona, an early childhood educator with a love for stories that grow with children. Whether you’re picking out a gift or looking for something fresh for the bookshelf at home, choosing the right children’s books age 5-7 can feel a bit daunting. At this stage, reading is full of exciting shifts—some children are taking their first steps into independent reading, while others are still enjoying illustrated books or bedtime stories shared together.

I’ve spent many happy hours reading with children at this age—both in the classroom and at home—and I know that finding the right book can make all the difference.

So Many Children’s Books Age 5–7… But Which Ones Fit?

There are shelves upon shelves of beginner reader books for age 5-7, popular children’s chapter books age 5-7, and illustrated stories. Some focus on developing literacy skills, others on adventure, fantasy, or emotional intelligence. It’s wonderful to have so much choice—but it can also feel a bit much.

At ages five to seven, children can be at very different stages. Some five-year-olds are still getting to grips with phonics and sight words, while others are ready to explore chapter books. By seven, some are confident readers, while others prefer illustrated books for 5 to 7 year olds that offer a bit more support. The right fit varies so much from child to child, and it can be tricky to know where to start.

When Books Don’t Quite Land

When a book isn’t quite right, reading can lose its sparkle. A story that’s too hard might feel frustrating, especially when children are just building their confidence with early readers. On the other hand, books that feel too easy or don’t match their interests—whether that’s fantasy adventures, funny books, or stories with diverse characters—can leave them disengaged.

And with busy days and full schedules, it’s easy to feel unsure. Will this book be too tricky? Too simple? Will it capture their imagination? Finding that balance between challenge and enjoyment—between boosting literacy skills and nurturing a love for stories—can take time.

Handpicked Children’s Books Age 5–7 That Build Confidence and Joy

To make things a little easier, I’ve gathered a selection of recommended reading for 5-7 year olds—books that offer a mix of educational value, empathy, and just good old-fashioned fun. These aren’t just award-winning children’s books age 5-7 or titles that top the bestseller lists—they’re stories I’ve seen children connect with, time and again.

You’ll find adventure books for 5-7 year olds, funny books that bring laughter, and beginner reader books designed to build confidence. Some are great for reading together, others are perfect for those first independent reading moments. They cover big themes—problem-solving, friendship, emotional growth—all wrapped up in stories that feel engaging and accessible.

So whether you're looking for a bedtime story, a first chapter book, or something that introduces STEM for kids in a gentle, playful way, this list of top books for 5-7 year olds is here to help. Let’s dive in and discover some fantastic reads!

Ages 5–7+ | Growing Readers & Curious Minds

Nature Explained: A Family Guide to 20 Nature Cycles
Recommended age: 5 to 7 years
From the changing of seasons to the migration of birds, this beautifully illustrated guide introduces children to the rhythms of the natural world. A fantastic choice for curious minds who love learning about how nature works around them.

This Book Will Make You An Artist
Recommended age: 5 to 8 years
Buried in every child is an artist waiting to bloom. This engaging activity book introduces budding creatives to a range of art styles and techniques, encouraging hands-on exploration and playful creativity at home or in the classroom.

The Fossil Keeper's Treasure
Recommended age: 5 to 7 years
Brimming with fascinating facts and touchable fossils, this book invites young explorers into the prehistoric world. It’s a hands-on adventure through time, perfect for dinosaur fans and budding palaeontologists.

Ask Me About… Dinosaurs
Recommended age: 5 to 9 years
Perfect for little dinosaur enthusiasts, this clever Q&A-style book answers all those big prehistoric questions. The conversational tone makes learning feel fun and approachable, sparking curiosity with every page.

Little Dinosaurs, Big Questions: 10 Thoughtful Stories
Recommended age: 5 to 7 years
This charming collection of short stories features dinosaurs tackling big feelings and everyday challenges. Each tale offers gentle prompts for conversations about emotions, friendships, and growing up.

A Lighthouse Story
Recommended age: 5 years and older
With soft illustrations and a comforting rhythm, this story takes readers on a journey through the life of a lighthouse keeper and his family. It’s a gentle introduction to life by the sea and the guiding lights that help us find our way.

Fox and the Deep Sea Quest
Recommended age: 5 years and older
Follow Fox on an exciting underwater adventure in search of treasure. This beautifully illustrated story introduces children to the wonders of the ocean, with themes of bravery, curiosity, and friendship.

I Can Do That Too: A Big Hedgehog and Little Hedgehog Adventure
Recommended age: 3 to 7 years
This heartwarming tale follows Little Hedgehog as they learn from Big Hedgehog, celebrating the joy of growing, learning, and doing things together. A gentle, reassuring story for shared reading moments.

Get Active | Ideas to Spark Curiosity & Creativity

🦴 Try fossil hunting in your local park or beach!
After reading The Fossil Keeper’s Treasure or Ask Me About… Dinosaurs, head outside for a mini excavation. Look for stones, shells, or interesting rocks, and imagine the stories they could tell. Bring along a magnifying glass for extra fun!

🌿 Create a nature cycle wheel.
Inspired by Nature Explained, draw a simple wheel showing the seasons or life cycles of plants or animals. Use found items like leaves or petals to decorate. This is a lovely way to connect with the rhythms of the natural world.

🎨 Have an underwater art session.
After joining Fox and the Deep Sea Quest, get creative with ocean-inspired art. Use watercolours to paint sea creatures or make textured collages with bits of recycled materials to mimic underwater scenes.

🧵 Bring Waldorf warmth into your day.
Following the Waldorf approach, try crafting felt animals or soft wool sea creatures to accompany A Lighthouse Story or Fox and the Deep Sea Quest. Simple handwork projects like this build fine motor skills and create a calming, screen-free activity.

🌟 Set up an “I Can Do That Too” challenge.
Encourage children to try something new—whether it’s helping bake, learning to tie their shoes, or making a small piece of art like in This Book Will Make You An Artist. Celebrate each little achievement together!