Introducing your toddler to engaging and educational books can foster a lifelong love of reading. Buying books doesn’t have to be expensive good second-hand books and sales can make all the difference. Here are ten highly recommended titles available in the UK:

I Want My Potty!

By Tony Ross, this humorous tale follows the Little Princess as she learns to use the potty, making it a delightful read during toilet training. Tony Ross has a series of I want books to enjoy

The Gruffalo

How doesn’t love the Authored by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, this classic story of a mouse’s adventure in the deep dark wood captivates young imaginations. The Gruffalo was followed by a sequel—The Gruffalo’s Child

The Noisy Farm Book

An interactive board book featuring ten farm animal sounds, perfect for engaging toddlers in active reading. Rod Campbell has a whole host of animal books to read

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

Judith Kerr’s timeless story of an unexpected visitor is a favourite among young readers. The book remains extremely popular more than 50 years after it was first published, and a theatrical adaptation of the story has been produced.

Oh Dear! A Lift-the-Flap Book

By Rod Campbell, this interactive farmyard tale encourages toddlers to lift the flaps and discover surprises. Buster’s staying with Grandma on the farm. But where will he find the eggs for breakfast?

Poo in the Zoo

Written by Steve Smallman, this amusing story about zoo animals and their keeper is sure to entertain. The Great Poo Mystery

Axel Scheffler’s Flip Flap Zoo

A creative flip-flap book that allows toddlers to mix and match animals, enhancing creativity and fun. Crazy creatures in this bonkers book of zany zoo animals from bestselling, award-winning illustrator, Axel Scheffler

Count the Diggers, Dumper Trucks & Tractors

An engaging counting book featuring vibrant illustrations of construction vehicles, ideal for young enthusiasts. A Fun Construction Counting Book for Kindergarten, Toddlers & Preschool Children!

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

By Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury, this rhythmic adventure is perfect for read-aloud sessions. For brave explorers and fearless bear-hunters, enjoy this chant-along children’s classic!

Dear Zoo

Rod Campbell’s lift-the-flap book about a child’s search for the perfect pet is a beloved classic.

Tales from Acorn Wood

Welcome to Acorn Wood! Come and meet Bear, Rabbit, Mole and all their friends in this rhyming search-and-find story, specially created for World Book Day 2025 by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo.

See Top 10 Toddler Bookshelves to Buy in the UK: Stylish and Practical Storage Options

 

By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.