Heartwarming Reads with Dad: 15 Father’s Day Books for Kids

Father’s Day is a special occasion to celebrate and honor the wonderful dads and grandpas in our lives. It’s a perfect time to share stories that reflect the love, wisdom, and fun that fathers bring to their families. Whether you’re looking to highlight the strength of a father’s bond, share a laugh, or teach important values, our curated list of Father’s Day books offers something for every family. These books are ideal for fathers to read to their children this Father’s Day, creating cherished moments and lasting memories.

Father’s Day Fun from Faith & Fun Creations

Our top recommendation for this Father’s Day was created by our very own founder, Ann Anderson.

1. Lessons Learned from Golfing for Kids by Ann Anderson, combines the fun of golfing with important life lessons. The story follows Isaiah, his Dad, and his grandfathers as they teach him the sport of golf and impart valuable lessons about patience, practice, and perseverance. Each page is filled with charming illustrations and practical wisdom, making it an excellent read for kids and their dads. It’s more than just a story about golf; it’s about spending quality time together and learning values that will last a lifetime.

• Lessons: Teaches patience, practice, and the importance of spending quality time together.
• Best for Ages: 4 – 8 years old
• Buy ‘Lessons Learned from Golfing for Kids’ on Amazon

Books for the Youngest Readers

Introduce your little ones to the joys of reading and the special bond with their dads.

2. I Love You, Daddy by Beatrix Potter is a loving story that is perfect for the youngest readers. Beatrix Potter’s classic illustrations and simple text make this book a cherished bedtime read. It tells the story of Little Peter Rabbit and the reassuring love he feels from his father. This book is a wonderful way to introduce young children to the concept of a father’s unconditional love.

• Lessons: Teaches about the tenderness and care between a father and child.
• Best for Ages: 1 – 3 years old
• Buy ‘I Love You, Daddy’ on Amazon

3. A Brave Bear by Sean Taylor is a charming board book that tells the tale of a little bear and his dad, emphasizing bravery and the support a father provides. The story captures a day in the life of the bears, filled with small adventures and important life lessons. The warm, expressive illustrations make it a joy to read, helping children understand the value of courage and a father’s encouragement.

• Lessons: Encourages courage and the supportive nature of a father’s love.
• Best for Ages: 1 – 4 years old
• Buy ‘A Brave Bear’ on Amazon

4. Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney is a timeless classic that beautifully illustrates the boundless love between Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare. Through simple and heartfelt dialogue, it shows how they express their love for each other in increasingly larger terms. This sweet story is perfect for bedtime, reinforcing the theme of unconditional love.

• Lessons: Highlights the immeasurable love between father and child.
• Best for Ages: 2 – 5 years old
• Buy ‘Guess How Much I Love You’ on Amazon

Fun and Engaging Reads

Keep young readers entertained with fun narratives and engaging illustrations featuring dads.

5. Hop on Pop by Dr. Seuss is a classic that uses simple rhymes and playful illustrations to create a fun reading experience about the joy of spending time with Dad. This book is perfect for early readers, with its catchy rhymes and humorous scenarios that make learning to read enjoyable. Each page offers a new adventure, making it a beloved favorite for generations.

• Lessons: Encourages early reading skills with fun rhymes and playful interactions.
• Best for Ages: 2 – 5 years old
• Buy ‘Hop on Pop’ on Amazon

6. I Love Dad with The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle features the beloved caterpillar expressing love for dads in this heartwarming book filled with his iconic illustrations. The story uses simple, affectionate text to highlight all the ways a father makes life special. It’s a charming and colorful tribute to the bond between father and child, perfect for a bedtime read-aloud session.

• Lessons: Celebrates the special bond between father and child.
• Best for Ages: 2 – 5 years old
• Buy ‘I Love Dad with The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ on Amazon

Celebrating the Father-Child Bond

Highlight the unique and heartwarming relationship between fathers and their children.

7. Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry is a touching story that celebrates the bond between a father and his daughter as they tackle a special hair day together. Based on the Oscar-winning short film, this book emphasizes the importance of patience, love, and teamwork. It’s a beautifully illustrated tale that shows how a dad’s support and encouragement can make all the difference.

• Lessons: Highlights the importance of patience, love, and teamwork.
• Best for Ages: 3 – 6 years old
• Buy ‘Hair Love’ on Amazon

8. Just Me and My Dad by Mercer Mayer follows Little Critter and his dad on their camping trip, experiencing humorous mishaps and heartfelt moments that highlight the joys of father-child adventures. This book is part of the beloved Little Critter series, known for its relatable stories and charming illustrations. It’s a wonderful reminder of the simple yet meaningful experiences that bond families together.

• Lessons: Highlights the importance of quality time and the joys of everyday adventures with Dad.
• Best for Ages: 4 – 8 years old
• Buy ‘Just Me and My Dad’ on Amazon

9. Why, Daddy? Why? by Tamara Girardi explores the curious questions children ask and the thoughtful answers dads provide, fostering understanding and communication. Each page is filled with engaging illustrations and heartfelt dialogue, making it a perfect read for inquisitive minds. It’s a wonderful story that highlights the special bond between fathers and their children through everyday conversations.

• Lessons: Encourages curiosity and the importance of asking questions and learning.
• Best for Ages: 4 – 8 years old
• Buy ‘Why, Daddy? Why?’ on Amazon

Building and Creating Together

Books that celebrate the joy of shared projects and the bonds they create.

10. Our Shed: A Father-Daughter Building Story by Robert Broder follows a father and daughter as they build a shed together, emphasizing the joy of shared projects and learning new skills. Through beautiful illustrations and a touching narrative, it showcases the teamwork and pride that come from building something together. It’s an inspiring tale about the bond between father and daughter.

• Lessons: Highlights teamwork, skill-building, and the joy of shared accomplishments.
• Best for Ages: 5 – 9 years old
• Buy ‘Our Shed: A Father-Daughter Building Story’ on Amazon

11. The Better Tree Fort by Jessica Scott Kerrin tells the story of a father and son who build the perfect tree fort, reflecting on dreams, ambitions, and the love that binds families together. The narrative is filled with warmth and humor, capturing the spirit of collaboration and the excitement of achieving a shared goal. It’s a wonderful read that celebrates family bonds and the power of working together.

• Lessons: Teaches about working towards goals and the importance of family support.
• Best for Ages: 5 – 9 years old
• Buy ‘The Better Tree Fort’ on Amazon

Cherishing Memories and Heritage

Books that delve into the emotional and lasting impact of fatherhood and grandparenthood.

12. Grandpa Green by Lane Smith beautifully illustrates the story of a grandfather’s life through his great-grandson’s eyes, emphasizing the value of memories and family heritage. Each page reveals a piece of Grandpa Green’s past, lovingly sculpted in topiary form. It’s a touching narrative that highlights the enduring legacy of love and the importance of remembering our loved ones.

• Lessons: Highlights the importance of memories, family history, and love.
• Best for Ages: 5 – 9 years old
• Buy ‘Grandpa Green’ on Amazon

13. Mr. Gumpy’s Outing by John Burningham invites readers to join Mr. Gumpy on a delightful outing that turns into an adventure, showcasing the joys of simple pleasures and togetherness. This classic story features charming illustrations and a gentle narrative that captures the spirit of exploration and friendship. It’s a perfect read for young children, teaching them about cooperation and the joy of shared experiences with older generations.

• Lessons: Promotes teamwork and the joys of spending time together.
• Best for Ages: 3 – 6 years old
• Buy ‘Mr. Gumpy’s Outing’ on Amazon

Teaching Values and Life Lessons

Books that provide valuable lessons and reflect deeper aspects of fatherhood.

14. Brick by Brick by Heidi Woodward Sheffield beautifully illustrates the story of a boy who admires his hardworking father, highlighting the values of determination and pride in one’s work. The narrative follows their journey as they build a better future together, brick by brick. It’s an inspiring story that emphasizes the importance of family, hard work, and perseverance.

• Lessons: Emphasizes hard work, perseverance, and the pride of a job well done.
• Best for Ages: 4 – 8 years old
• Buy ‘Brick by Brick’ on Amazon

15. How to Surprise a Dad by Jean Reagan offers fun and thoughtful ways for kids to show their appreciation for their dads, making every day special. With playful illustrations and engaging text, it provides a step-by-step guide on how to plan surprises and create joyful moments. It’s a delightful read that encourages creativity and thoughtful gestures.

• Lessons: Encourages creativity and thoughtfulness in showing love and appreciation.
• Best for Ages: 4 – 8 years old
• Buy ‘How to Surprise a Dad’ on Amazon

These wonderful Father’s Day books offer a range of stories that celebrate the unique and irreplaceable role of fathers and grandfathers. From tales of love and bonding to fun-filled adventures and valuable life lessons, there’s a perfect book to share with your little ones this Father’s Day. Reading these stories together not only creates cherished memories but also reinforces the values and connections that make families strong. We wish you all a Happy Father’s Day and happy reading together!