Why Read Aloud? Ten Can’t-Miss Books For Bedtime!

“Come on...just one more story?”

If you’re a parent, or anyone who has put a child to bed, you’ve no doubt heard this plea during story time.
Why do kids love story time so much? ​

Because it’s so much more than just a book.

​​Why Is Reading Aloud So Important?

The value of reading aloud cannot be overstated.

​When you read aloud to your child, you’re doing a lot more than just telling a story. You are also:

• connecting pictures with language
• connecting reading with feelings of love and security
• validating the importance of reading
• demonstrating fluency
• stimulating your child’s imagination
• fostering listening skills

So which amazing titles should you be sure to make time for? Read on!

* Please note: the links below are affiliate links. If you are interested in purchasing the books from Amazon, I will receive a small commission if you use my link.

Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathman

This nearly-wordless book tells about a zookeeper who is putting all the animals to bed one night. Sneaky Gorilla isn’t quite ready to go to sleep yet, though, and he causes a bit of mischief. 

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I Want a Dog by Jon Agee

If you’ve read Terrific, you know how dry Agee is, yet how well his writing is received by children. This book tells the story of a young girl at an animal shelter who wants to adopt a dog.

How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight? by Jane Yolen

This fun story is part of a series by Yolen, including How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You? and more. Listeners appreciate the predictable rhythm and fun characters.

The Napping House by Don and Audrey Wood

This cumulative story, accompanied by gorgeous illustrations, tells  of a sleepy afternoon in granny’s house where everyone is sleeping. Until a wakeful flea appears….

Good Night, Mr. Panda by Steve Antony

At bedtime, Mr. Panda must remind his friends Hippo, Skunk, Sheep and Sloth, that they’ve each forgotten to do something. Skunk has forgotten about his bath, and Sloth is just too tired to move. They get it all sorted out together.

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

Published in 1947, this classic bedtime story still resonates with children and their parents. As bunny says ‘good night’ to everything in and around his room, sleep is on its way.

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

Acclaimed illustrator Keats won a Caldecott Award in 1963 for the beautiful illustrations in this simple story about a young boy named Peter. Every child can relate to Peter’s character and the joy of freshly-fallen snow.

Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late! By Mo Willems

It’s time for bed, but Pigeon just isn’t tired! He will try all kinds of distractions just to be able to stay up late - but we can’t let him!

Time For Bed by Mem Fox

This repetitive book tells a variety of baby animals to go to sleep through peaceful illustrations and soothing rhymes.

I Am Not Sleepy and Will Not Go to Bed by Lauren Child

Lola is a night owl and just can’t bear the thought of surrendering to sleep. Her older brother Charlie helps her settle down so they can both get some rest.

Whether you love a classic bedtime story, or a more modern spin, there are countless books out there just waiting to be read by you and your loved ones! Have fun reading!