Children’s Books That Celebrate Dads
Looking for the best children’s books about dads? Whether you’re shopping for a sweet Father’s Day gift, baby shower gift, a bedtime favorite, or want to highlight a loving father figure, this list is packed with kid-approved stories where dads take the stage.
From laugh-out-loud board books to beautifully illustrated picture books, these books starring dads are perfect for celebrating all the big and small ways dads show up. Grab your little one and snuggle up—it’s storytime with Dad!
Board Books About Dads
My Dad Is Amazing! (A Hello!Lucky Book)
This one’s bursting with color, positivity, and mythical yeti energy. Dad is “cooler than a million popsicles” and “braver than a space explorer”—what’s not to love?
Because I’m Your Dad by Ahmet Zappa
Spaghetti for breakfast? Ice cream in the bathtub? This silly and sweet board book shows just how fun (and weird) dads can be. Plus, the goofy monster illustrations make bedtime a little less scary!
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Helen Oxenbury
We’re going on a bear hunt. We’re going to catch a big one.
Join a brave dad and his kids on a wild adventure through tall grass, mud, and other obstacles. The repetitive text and adventurous spirit make this a forever favorite.
Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney
A gentle tale of father-child love that has stood the test of time. “I love you to the moon and back” is iconic for a reason.
Your Baby’s First Word Will Be Dada by Jimmy Fallon
This one’s for the dads who really want “dada” to be the first word. Cute animal illustrations and silly sounds make this a hit with babies—and competitive dads.
Dads Can Do It All by Ted Maass
Diaper duty? Check. Hair brushing? Yep. Dance parties and lullabies? Absolutely. This fun picture book shows that dads can truly do it all—and do it with love.
ABCs of Love for Dad by Patricia Hegarty
This adorable board book celebrates everything kids love about Dad from A to Z. Each letter stands for a word like “Adventure,” “Giggles,” or “Snuggles,” paired with sweet rhymes and colorful illustrations.
My Dad Loves Me by Marianne Richmond
This sweet, simple book is about a special connection between a dad and his child. With heartfelt text and charming illustrations, My Dad Loves Me captures all the ways dads show love—through cuddles, playtime, and just being there.
PICTURE Books About Dads
Hike by Pete Oswald
No words, just pure father-child bonding. This quiet, stunning story shows a dad and kid heading out for a day of hiking, tree planting, and memory-making. It’s a total gem.
Dad by My Side by Soosh
Overflowing with heart, this beautifully illustrated book celebrates the simple joy of being close to Dad. It’s a keepsake kind of book you’ll want to pass down.
Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry
A story of a dad who valiantly helps his daughter style her hair just right for an extra-special day. It’s an ode to loving your natural hair as well as the special bond between fathers and daughters.
Made for Me by Zack Bush
Warning: tears ahead. This sentimental story captures a new dad’s love for his child with lines like “You are the one made just for me.” It’s a bedtime repeat.
I Am Perfectly Designed by Karamo Brown
A father and son walk through the city, talking about love, identity, and acceptance. It’s joyful, affirming, and perfect for celebrating modern families.
My Papi Has a Motorcycle by Isabel Quintero
A story of father-daughter love in a vibrant immigrant neighborhood. Even as Daisy Ramona’s neighborhood changes as she whizzes past on the back of her Papi’s motorcycle, she knows one thing will never change: her love for her family.
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
Jabari wants to jump off the diving board—but he’s nervous. With gentle encouragement from his dad, he faces his fear. This book is a must-read about bravery, patience, and the importance of support.
Because of you, Dad by Kobi Yamada
A beautiful tribute to everything dads do—from teaching and guiding to simply being there. It’s perfect for dads of all ages, from the diaper stage to college drop-offs.
I Love Dad by Eric Carle
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is back in this darling love note to Dad. Together with his animal friends, he helps say the three little words that are music to any father’s ears: “I love you.”
My Dad by Susan Quinn
Sure, he’s not a superhero or secret agent, but he’s still the BEST. Told from a child’s perspective, this sweet book is about the everyday magic of dads, from bath time with pirate ships to baking sweet treats.
How to Catch a Daddysaurus by Alice Walstead
This silly spin-off of the “How to Catch” series has kids trying to trap a dinosaur dad who’s full of dad jokes and fun surprises—a funny, high-energy read for Father’s Day and beyond.
What We’ll Build by Oliver Jeffers
What shall we build, you and I? I’ll build your future and you’ll build mine.
A stunning and poetic book about a father and daughter planning a future together. What We’ll Build is both imaginative and emotional, with themes of love, protection, and hope woven through whimsical illustrations.
Why a Daughter Needs a Dad by Gregory E. Lang
Filled with heartfelt promises and timeless wisdom, Why a Daughter Needs a Dad is a touching tribute to the special bond between fathers and daughters.
And of course, don’t miss Why a Son Needs a Dad from the same series.
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Great choices! We also love “Daddies do it different” and “When Dads don’t grow up”
Those both look absolutely adorable! I haven’t heard of either of them – thanks for sharing!
Thank you! I wish more of these were board books! My LO crushes pages 😉
I think at least a handful of them are board books! And there’s always Guess How Much I Love You, another favorite of mine! 🙂
Loved this post for my husband’s first father’s day! My daughter often picks them out for him to read her now that she is older. I was hunting for a post about books for Mother’s Day, but it doesn’t seem like you have one yet.