Birthdays are magical milestones in a child’s life, filled with excitement, joy, and unforgettable moments. While their own special day is filled with anticipation, children also have just as much fun celebrating the birthdays of friends and family. It’s all about creating cherished memories with the people we love. Whether you’re searching for the perfect bedtime story to build excitement before the big day or a thoughtful gift for a little reader, these fun books are sure to bring smiles, laughter, and plenty of birthday cheer!
Alfie and the Birthday Surprise by Shirley Hughes
Aflie’s neighbor, Mr. McNally, is sad over the loss of his special pet cat, Smokey. Alfie and his family decide to come together to surprise Mr. McNally for this birthday in hopes of cheering him up. Mr. McNally is indeed surprised, and Alfie and his family save the biggest surprise of all for last! A sweet story highlighting how fun it can be to make someone feel loved on their special day.
The Birthday Box by Leslie Patricelli
This relatable story follows a baby who is overjoyed to receive a birthday present—but it’s not what’s inside that excites him the most… it’s the box! Who knew a simple box could be the best gift of all? With playful illustrations and silly moments, this charming book will have your little one giggling—and maybe even inspired to turn an ordinary box into their next big adventure!
Happy Birthday, Mouse! by Laura Numeroff
This familiar character will get your little reader in the birthday spirit as he decides what special treat he wants for his birthday breakfast. I bet you can guess what dessert Mouse decides on! A fun book for the littlest of readers as they celebrate their special day!
The Birthday Book by Todd Parr
As always, Todd Parr reminds us that there’s no one right way to celebrate a birthday—every way is just right! With his signature bright, playful illustrations and simple, heartfelt text, this joyful book will have your little one eager to embrace their special day in whatever way makes them happiest!
A Present for Toot by Hollie Hobbie
Toot’s birthday is this week, and his best friend, Puddle, is on a mission to find the perfect gift. As he searches high and low around town, nothing seems quite special enough for someone as wonderful as Toot. Just when worry starts to set in, inspiration strikes in the most unexpected way! This cute story beautifully captures the excitement, love, and thoughtfulness that go into celebrating the people who mean the most to us—brought to life with the most charming characters.
Ten Rules of the Birthday Wish by Beth Ferry
This hilarious story breaks down all the essential ingredients of a perfect birthday wish! With charming illustrations and a cast of funny animal friends, a child outlines how to make the perfect birthday wish, starting with the most important rule—rule #1: It has to be your birthday! Bursting with humor, this book is the ultimate go-to gift for any young reader celebrating their special day.
It’s My Birthday by Helen Oxenbury
For the littlest people, this book is just right to savor the creation of a perfect birthday cake. Step by step we gather ingredients, mix them together, and prepare the sweetest cake to celebrate our favorite people. This board book has the sweetest illustrations and the gentlest message to celebrate a birthday.
Bear Can’t Wait by Karma Wilson
This is one my favorites from this series. All the animal friends are so excited to celebrate Hare’s birthday. They each gather special ingredients to make Hare a beautiful carrot cake. Bear is so excited that he accidentally knocks over the cake just before Hare arrives for the big surprise birthday. Grab this one and read to find out just what they do to make the most of Hare’s birthday!
Books are the perfect thing to celebrate all kinds of things! We only pull these books out each year around the kid’s birthdays. It makes for a festive shelf and adds to the excitement!
By Kathleen Koester and Becca Thiemann
