The 50+ Best Bird Books that Kids Will Go Cuckoo Over
For families who enjoy nature, birds, and the outdoors, we've gathered the best books about birds for kids of all ages. Whether wacky or emotional, these stories are perfect for little birdwatchers and inspire imagination and appreciation for nature.
These books offer an educational and inspiring alternative to video games, encouraging creative playtime with your kids. So grab a book and get ready to be as "happy as a lark" during your next birdwatching adventure!
Table of Content:
For Babies & Toddlers (0-2 years)
For Preschoolers (3-5 years)
For Early Readers (6-8 years)
For Growing Readers + Tweens (9+ years)
Graphic Books on our Feathered Friends
Non-Fiction Bird Books for Kids
Best Bird Books for Babies and Toddlers (0-2 years old)
These colorful and chirpy books are sure to pique your child’s interest in feathery friends!!
1. Fly!
Goodreads Rating: 4.02
A bird arrives, alights on a tree, finds a mate, and builds a nest. Soon its eggs will hatch and one brave hatchling will embark on its first flight. This is a deceptively simple and joyful celebration of the natural cycle of life. This book has the added bonus of removable—and movable—characters and scenery to the bestselling TouchThinkLearn format.
2. Peck Peck Peck
Goodreads Rating: 3.90
Little woodpecker has just learned to peck. He’s having so much fun that he peck-peck-pecks right through a door and has a go at everything on the other side. Children will be drawn to the young bird’s exuberance at learning a new skill—and ready to snuggle along at day’s end for a night of sweet dreams.
3. Duck & Goose Find A Pumpkin
Goodreads Rating: 4.05
Duck & Goose look everywhere for a pumpkin -- in the apple tree, in the leaf pile, inside a hollow log .... Where will they find one? This book is perfect for your favorite fall holiday, and a fun read-a-long for fans of Duck and Goose any time of year! This oversized board book makes it ideal for sharing during storytime or lap time.
4. Hooray for Birds!
Goodreads Rating: 4.08
Birds of all feathers flock together in a fun, rhyme-filled offering by the creator of Maisy. his day in the life of birds will hold the attention of even the smallest bird-watchers, whether at storytime or just before settling into their cozy nests to sleep. “This book is so fun to read! And the art is colorful and happy. Baby loves it too!” - Amazon review by Kristen K.
5. Little Owl Lost
Goodreads Rating: 4.19
Uh-oh! Little Owl has fallen from his nest, and his mommy is nowhere to be seen! With the earnest help of his new friend Squirrel, Little Owl goes in search of animals that fit his description of Mommy Owl. A cast of adorable forest critters in retro, neon-bright hues will engage little readers right up to the story’s comforting conclusion.
6. No Two Alike
Goodreads Rating: 3.88
From bestselling author-illustrator Keith Baker, explore the wondrous world of winter in this charming story now available as a Classic Board Book! “What a great book for twins’ baby shower gift as it shows the uniqueness of two things that may look alike at first glance. Perfect!” - Amazon review by Sleepcatz
7. Baby’s First Book of Birds & Colors
Goodreads Rating: 4.26
Little ones will discover the natural world and learn the names and colors of Phyllis Limbacher Tildes’s exquisitely illustrated birds in their natural habitats. Each bird is color coded and has a name and gender for children to easily identify.
8. Fly!
Goodreads Rating: 4.04
Mama bird thinks it’s time for Baby bird’s first flight, but Baby bird has other ideas in this humorous wordless picture book from New York Times bestselling author-illustrator Mark Teague. This silly book will keep young readers giggling as Baby bird figures out that he must flap his wings and learn to fly—whether he likes it or not!
9. Baby Wren and the Great Gift
Goodreads Rating: 4.00
Follow along as tiny wren marvels at the incredible wildlife around her—from fish to eagles, insects to plants—all the while wishing she had a special gift of her own to share. This rich and colorful picture book encourages each and every little boy & girl to discover the amazing gifts within them to share with this wonderful world.
10. Birds
Goodreads Rating: 3.96
Perfect for the small dreamers and naturalists in your life, this critically acclaimed picture book is from the award-winning husband-and-wife team of Kevin Henkes and Laura Dronzek. The New York Times Book Review calls this “a perfect book” of a little girl who watches birds from her window and dreams she can fly. “Beautiful pictures and text, gave it to a 2-year-old with a bird feeder for his birthday and he loves it". - Amazon review by TDMT
11. Little Owl’s Night
Goodreads Rating: 4.03
Putting a twist on the bedtime book, Little Owl's Night is sure to comfort any child with a curiosity about the night. “This is the second copy of this book in our home. The first copy (May it Rest In Peace) was the unwelcome recipient of cat urine. Poor Little Owl. Since we loved this book so much we purchased it again. This time it’s stored a bit higher up. Buy the book. Love it. Keep it away from your angsty cat.” - Amazon review by Kateeeeee
12. Nest
Goodreads Rating: 3.90
Simple text and beautiful illustrations follow a baby bird through the seasons in this sweet tale now available as Classic Board Book. From birth to the first flight, to a new friend, the first year of a bird’s life is full of activity and wonder. “Great book for spring. Pages are beautiful images. Helped add a few new words to my 21-month-old son’s vocab!” - Verified Amazon Review
Best Bird Books for Preschoolers (3-5 Years Old)
This list of bird-themed books has an impressive number of Caldecott award-winning titles!! Many of these much-loved books are sure to become bookshelf favorites for your family!
13. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!
Goodreads Rating: 4.32
When a bus driver takes a break from his route, a very unlikely volunteer springs up to take his place-a pigeon! But you've never met one like this before. As he pleads, wheedles, and begs his way through the book, children will love being able to answer back and decide his fate. In his hilarious picture book debut, popular cartoonist Mo Willems perfectly captures a preschooler's temper tantrum.
14. Red & Lulu
Goodreads Rating: 4.39
Red and Lulu make their nest in a particularly beautiful evergreen tree. But one day, something unthinkable happens, and Red and Lulu are separated. It will take a miracle for them to find each other again. Destined to be a Christmas classic, this heart-tugging story combines the cheer of Christmas, the magic of New York City, and the real meaning of the holiday season: how important it is to be surrounded by love.
15. Bird Count
Goodreads Rating: 4.26
“Such a great fictionalized story about the true event of the bird count. We get to follow the main character as she goes through town counting all of the birds she finds for the count. Readers learn about migration and bird calls and all sorts of fun bird-spotting facts. Great for budding ornithologists and any science class.” - Amazon review by Stewygirl
16. Stellaluna
Goodreads Rating: 4.26
Knocked from her mother’s safe embrace by an attacking owl, Stellaluna lands headfirst in a bird’s nest. This adorable baby fruit bat’s world is literally turned upside down when she is adopted by the occupants of the nest and adapts to their peculiar bird habits. The deluxe edition of this bestselling picture book classic now has bonus crafts and activities!
17. Owl Moon
Goodreads Rating: 4.22
“I bought this book for my grown son who has always been interested in owls. Especially the large horned owls. I knew he would enjoy reading it to his grandchildren which are now becoming that age. Everyone loves the story. The pictures are captivating. My gift was a great success for two generations of family members.” - Amazon review by Brenda W.
18. Make Way for Ducklings
Goodreads Rating: 4.23
Mrs. Mallard was sure that the pond in the Boston Public Gardens would be a perfect place for her and her eight ducklings to live. The problem was how to get them there through the busy streets of Boston. But with a little help from the Boston police, Mrs. Mallard and her ducklings arrive safely at their new home. Awarded the
Caldecott Medal for the most distinguished American picture book for children in 1941, Make Way for Ducklings has since become a favorite of millions.
19. Flora and the Flamingo
Goodreads Rating: 4.06
In this magical Caldecott Honor-winning picture book, Flora and her graceful flamingo friend wordlessly explore the trials and joys of friendship through an elaborate synchronized dance. “This is a cute book. My pre-schooler loves to act it out! There are not words but it doesn't need words!” - Amazon review by AClayton
20. Owl Babies
Goodreads Rating: 4.21
When three baby owls awake one night to find their mother gone, they can't help but wonder where she is. Stunning illustrations from unique and striking perspectives capture the owls as they worry about their mother. Never has the plight of young ones who miss their mother been so simply told or so beautifully rendered.
21. Bird Hugs
Goodreads Rating: 4.23
Bernard isn’t like other birds. His wings are impossibly long, and try as he might, he just can’t seem to fly. He’s left wondering what his wings are good for … if they’re even good for anything at all. But a chance encounter with a dejected orangutan leads Bernard to a surprising discovery: that maybe what makes him different is actually something to be embraced. “So super duper cute. We loved it. I would line up to get a hug from Bernard. Hazel (our 4-year-old) says she loves this book almost as much as rainbows! That’s a lot” - Amazon review by K
22. Be Brave Little Penguin
Goodreads Rating: 4.04
A feel-good rhyming story with a positive message about confidence and self-esteem, from the creators of international bestseller, Giraffes Can't Dance. Little Penguin Pip-Pip would love to join in with all his friends swimming in the sea, but there's just one problem . . . he's scared of water. Can Pip-Pip overcome his fears and finally take the plunge? This irresistible story shows that sometimes all it takes is a little bit of encouragement - and a whole lot of heart - to finally make that leap!
23. Nesting
Goodreads Rating: 4.08
Award-winning author-illustrator Henry Cole soars to new heights in this stunning picture book about robins: their homes, their lives, and their families. Nesting is the perfect primer for young bird watchers and nature lovers. The beautiful, intricate black-and-white illustrations are illuminated with lovely washes of blue that breathe life into the artwork.
24. Outside Your Window: A First Book of Nature
Goodreads Rating: 4.23
This beautiful book captures all the sights and sounds of a child’s interactions with nature, from planting acorns or biting into crisp apples to studying tide pools or lying back and watching the birds overhead. Outside Your Window is a stunning reminder that the natural world is on our doorstep waiting to be discovered.
Best Bird Books for Early Readers (6-8 Years Old)
This collection of bird books for early readers are really fun and full of wit! I’m especially fond of The Best Nest and Flap Your Wings which brings back many fond memories reading this as a child. Being able to share these classic stories with my kids today is truly special!
25. The Best Nest
Amazon Rating: 4.21
Illustrated in full color. Mr. and Mrs. Bird's search for a "better" nest leads them to some peculiar spots. “This is a treasured book in our family and is now being passed on to our grandchildren. It is a story that is so much fun to read and sing with little ones. We read it so much, they have it memorized; but still ask over and over and over and over to read it "just one more time" - Amazon review by mem
26. 365 Penguins
Goodreads Rating: 4.12
The family in 365 Penguins finds a penguin mysteriously delivered to their door every day for a year. At first they’re cute, but with every passing day, the penguins pile up—along with the family’s problems. Feeding, cleaning, and housing the penguins becomes a monumental task. They’re noisy and smelly, and they always hog the bathroom! And who on earth is sending these kwak-ing critters? Bright, striking illustrations with lots of opportunity for counting (and lots of laughs), 365 Penguins has become a perennial wintertime favorite since it first came out in 2006.
27. Owl Diaries: Eva’s Treetop Festival
Goodreads Rating: 4.20
This adorable New York Times bestselling early chapter book series is perfect for young girls who love friendship stories starring animal characters! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers gro
28. Sam and the Firefly
Goodreads Rating: 4.18
In Sam and the Firefly, P. D. Eastman (author of Are You My Mother? and Go, Dog. Go!) introduces us to the dynamic duo of Sam and Gus, who soar through the air writing words in the night sky. in this classic Beginner Book edited by Dr. Seuss, these Beginner Books encourage children to read all by themselves, with simple words and illustrations that give clues to their meaning.
29. Snow Birds
Goodreads Rating: 3.91
You’ve heard of birds who migrate to warmer climates in the wintertime—but what about those who persevere through snowy weather and freezing temperatures? With elegant verse and striking illustrations, Snow Birds salutes the brave and resourceful birds who adapt to survive the coldest months.
30. Whoever Heard of a Flying Bird?
Goodreads Rating: 4.51
Pip is a little bird who wants nothing more than to eat the fresh fruit high up in the trees. There’s just one problem – on her island, birds don't fly! All the other birds think the idea of flying sounds ridiculous. After all, whoever heard of a flying bird? “Fantastic message and gorgeous illustrations! The message of this book is brilliant, reminding children to persevere and keep at it until they achieve their goals!” - Amazon review by Reena B.
31. Nerdy Birdy
Goodreads Rating: 4.26
Nerdy Birdy likes reading, video games, and reading about video games,. One thing is clear: being a nerdy birdy is a lonely lifestyle. When he's at his lowest point, Nerdy Birdy meets a flock just like him and discovers that there are far more nerdy birdies than cool birdies in the sky. “I use this book to teach the importance of individuality and self-love. Nerdy Birdy is an adorable character loved by all who read this book! Highly recommend for 2nd-3rd graders.” - Amazon review by Sparky
32. Flap Your Wings
Goodreads Rating: 4.25
“This is one of my favorite books from childhood. It's about a husband and wife bird who finds a large egg in their nest. They decide to care for it even though it doesn't look like their egg. It's a really cute story about caring for your "child" no matter how big they get or how much they eat you out of house and home! It's hardcover and the same size as the Dr. Seuss books. PD Eastman wrote a number of books, and I love them all. Just a great easy-to-read story with good illustrations and a great message.” - Amazon review by Diana C.
33. Terry Treetop and the Lost Egg
Goodreads Rating: 3.84
Terry Treetop and the Lost Egg teaches your child about natural habitats and explains about animals’ lives and about motherhood. It builds your child’s confidence and demonstrates the power of friendship, kindness, and persistence. This sweet children's book is a suitable read-aloud for preschoolers and a great self-read book for beginner readers. Adorable rhyming and 18 beautiful colorful illustrations that children simply love.
Best Bird Books for Growing Readers + Tweens
This collection of bird books for growing readers and tweens are really fun and full of wit!
34. The Puffin Keeper
Goodreads Rating: 4.29
From bestselling author Michael Morpurgo comes a beautifully illustrated classic story for ages 9 to 12 about a lighthouse keeper, a daring rescue and puffin. “Absolutely stunning story with some amazing illustrations that I couldn't stop looking at! Such a lovely heartfelt story about a lonely Lighthouse Keeper and the friendship over the years between him, a puffin and a young boy he saves. Beautifully written.” - Amazon review by melisa
35. Mr. Popper’s Penguins
Goodreads Rating: 4.23
Mr. Popper's Penguins is one of the handful of American books for children that has attained the status of a classic. A humble house painter is sent a male penguin by the great Admiral Drake and, thanks to the arrival of a female penguin, soon has twelve penguins living in his house. First published in 1938, Mr. Popper's Penguins has amused and enchanted generations of children and their parents. Be sure to visit the fun activities of Mr Popper’s Penguins by Reading Quests!
36. Mr. Penguin and the Fortress of Secrets
Goodreads Rating: 4.16
Dashing detective Mr. Penguin and his Adventuring gang are in for a wild ride after they crash-land on a snow-drenched mountain. Alex T. Smith's Mr. Penguin is a page-turning, illustrated middle-grade series that is sure to thrill young readers looking for a good adventure and major laughs. Two color illustrations throughout. “My 3rd-grade twin boys LOVE these books! The writing is clever and the characters are well developed.” - Amazon review by HLW
37. Coo
Goodreads Rating: 4.22
In this exceptional debut, one young girl’s determination to save the flock she calls family creates a lasting impact on her community and in her heart. Gorgeous and literary, this is an unforgettable animal story about friendship, family, home, and belonging. For readers who love books by Kate DiCamillo and Katherine Applegate. “A delightful and enchanting read in a time when we need more magic in the world. Coo's flock is unforgettable (and at times, hilarious!), the power to look at the world afresh through Coo's eyes is a gift to readers young and old, and I will never look at a pigeon the same way twice!” - Verified Amazon review
Best Graphic Novels with Birds
38. Bird & Squirrel on the Run
Goodreads Rating: 4.18
Bird and Squirrel outwit Cat and become best friends in this zany adventure. Squirrel is afraid of his own shadow. Bird doesn't have a care in the world. And Cat wants to eat Bird and Squirrel. Of course, he'll have to catch them first, and that's not going to be easy. Join this trio as they head south for the winter in a hilarious road trip. But watch out! Cat is waiting around every bend, and he's one pesky feline.
39. Kung Pow Chicken - Let’s Get Cracking
Goodreads Rating: 4.25
Kung Pow Chicken is the superhero everyone has been waiting for! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. “Finally, a fun book for early readers with no bathroom humor, ugliness, disrespectful attitudes. Just a good laugh and lots of fun for children and their parents!” - Amazon review by Ladycicero
40. Beak and Ally: Unlikely Friends
Goodreads Rating: 4.18
What do you get when you cross a crusty alligator and a perky bird? A surprising friendship you’ll be sure to cheer for. Beak and Ally is a warm, funny winner and also a Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Award winner! A brand-new early reader graphic novel series about finding friendship in unexpected places! This fun and funny buddy comedy is perfect for fans of Narwhal & Jelly, emerging readers, and all kids who love comics.
41. The Last Firehawk: The Ember Stone
Goodreads Rating: 3.97
Magic, fantasy, and adventure combine to create this fast-paced series perfect for young readers! In this first book, Tag and his best friend -- a squirrel named Skyla -- meet the last firehawk. Together, the three friends learn about a magical stone. This action-packed series makes a great introduction to fantasy and quest stories for newly independent readers. “My 8 year old son who claimed he hated reading LOVED this book. He is a very active and energetic boy, so I was shocked to see him read it in 1 DAY! I've been trying to develop a love of reading in him, and he's liked other books that I've gotten him, but this one is his favorite!” - Amazon review by Mateo
42. Pea, Bee, & Jay #1: Stuck Together
Goodreads Rating: 3.97
Get ready to roll with Pea, Bee, & Jay in this brand-new early reader graphic novel series by Brian “Smitty” Smith, perfect for fans of Narwhal & Jelly, emerging readers, and comic lovers alike! “I am so happy to have found this series! I teach students who do not (yet) see themselves as readers and do not (yet) enjoy it. This is a perfect beginning graphic novel series. I love this book and also the Noodlehead series by Tedd Arnold (little known series by the Fly Guy author).” - Amazon review by Tammy R.
43. Arlo & Pips: King of the Birds
Goodreads Rating: 4.26
Perfect for fans of Narwhal and Jelly, Arlo & Pips: King of the Birds is the first in a new early graphic chapter book series about the friendship between Arlo, an arrogant crow, and a sarcastic little bird named Pips. “This book was so funny and clever. My sons (ages 6 and 8) thoroughly enjoyed the character of Arlo, and we learned a lot along the way. When we finished, they both exclaimed, “Crows are pretty cool!” - Amazon review by cbee
Best Non-Fiction Books about Birds for Kids
For children who are more fond of non-fiction, here is a great collection of books to learn about our feathered friends!
44. Backpacker Explorer: Bird Watch
This book invites budding naturalists to head outside for a walk — in the woods, a park, or right in their backyard — to spot feathered friends. The pages are packed with prompts and activities, including 12 interactive field guides, sensory scavenger hunts, and activities such as building a bird nest. Equipped with a real magnifying glass, stickers, and a birding log for recording sightings and encounters, this book is the perfect take-along for any nature adventure.
45. Little Kids First Big Book of Birds
Goodreads Rating: 4.54
This adorable reference introduces young readers to birds of all kinds: big and small, flyers and swimmers, colorful and plain. More than 100 colorful photos are paired with profiles of each bird, along with facts about the creatures' sizes, diets, homes, and more. This charming book will quickly become a favorite at storytime, bedtime, and any other time.
46. The Big Book of Birds
Goodreads Rating: 4.44
The next Big Book in the series introduces young children to some of the most colorful, magnificent, silly, and surprising feathered creatures from around the world. The book draws in children and parents alike with captivating information about and charming illustrations of hummingbirds, peacocks, flamingos, bald eagles, secretary birds, puffins, red-crowned cranes, and more. The book also invites young bird-watchers to protect birds where they live and make their gardens bird-friendly. The text is chatty, funny, and full of remarkable facts.
47. What It’s Like to Be a Bird
Goodreads Rating: 4.08
In What It's Like to Be a Bird, David Sibley answers the most frequently asked questions about the birds we see most often. This special, large-format volume is geared as much to nonbirders as it is to the out-and-out obsessed, covering more than two hundred species and including more than 330 new illustrations by the author. “This book is just beautiful. Any bird lover would like it. Very informative too.” - Amazone review by Queenie
48. Migration: Incredible Animal Journeys
Goodreads Rating: 4.20
Travel around the globe with some of the world's most incredible animals and discover their unique migration stories. With stunning color illustrations, uncover the astonishing migrations of 20 creatures, in this truly inspiring narrative. “We are enjoying this book. I’m using it with our animal and geography studies. It was a little pricey though (I’m a homeschool mom on a budget). It is definitely worth the money. The information is short enough to hold my 6-year-old’s attention and the illustrations are superb. Well done! Would recommend.” - Amazon review by R.A. Home
49. The Atlas of Amazing Birds
Goodreads Rating: 4.27
Organized by continent, the book features full-color illustrations of each bird, complete with a full description that includes their dimensions and locations by country, along with maps of migratory patterns across all the continents, where our feathered friends live in all sorts of interesting places—in gardens, amidst waterways, and along byways. “Bought it for the kids but I absolutely love it. Lots of info but not too much to feel overwhelmed. Beautiful artwork too.” - Benjamin R.
50. National Geographic Kids Bird Guide of North America
Goodreads Rating: 4.40
“My 6 1/2-year old daughter has used this book every single day since she received it for Easter and she has learned names and facts of most of the birds in this book so well that she loves to tell me the names and the information all the time. She is only an emerging reader, but this book is engaging her so quickly! And this has become her greatest interest for everything from homeschool projects and learning to free play pretending and actual birding.” - Amazon review by Rebecca
51. Charley Harper’s Birds Sticker Book
"Lots and lots of stickers of exquisitely illustrated birds. Real birds, too, but with Charley Harper's artistic interpretation. Bought to give to a young nephew but will have to re-order it as I can't bear to part with this enchanting book! I'll be using the stickers to decorate blank postcards and seal envelopes. Am so pleased I've found this unusual collection ~ seems stickers aren't always just for kids!” - Amazon review by C McKenzie
52. The Little Book of Woodland Bird Songs
Goodreads Rating: 4.70
Being able to identify a bird's song is a skill that brings joy and fosters an appreciation of nature. That is where this enchanting book comes into its own. The Little Book of Woodland Bird Songs features recordings of twelve bird songs from some of the best-known woodland species seen and heard in North America. It is an interactive board book that is ideal for curious young readers. T
53. North American Bird Watching for Beginners
Goodreads Rating: 4.44
This compact field guide is the perfect introduction to birding. You’ll find essential information about 150 North American species and expert advice on how to get started on your bird-watching journey. “I just got into birding and discovered this book! “It is well written and I love the trivia facts. This book is a must for anyone interested in learning about birding. I really love the basic bird knowledge and birding vocabulary sections. This book is easy to understand and great for all levels.” - Heather C.
54. Charley Harper Sketchbook
Goodreads Rating: 4.64
An avid naturalist, Charley Harper particularly liked to paint birds. The sketchbook progresses from the simpler of Harper’s bird images to the more complex ones. In some cases, the line drawings present a slightly modified version of the original art. At the end of this book, you will find thirty pages for your continued sketching, be it using Harper’s style or your own bold and unique approach. Happy bird sketching!
55. Charley Harper’s Count the Birds
Goodreads Rating: 4.12
Starting with one bunting and ending with ten baby quail, Charley Harper's Count the Birds is the perfect board-book primer for learning numbers. “I bought this as a baby shower gift. We were requested to bring a children's book instead of a card. I'm a bird nerd so thought this would be a good one from me. The illustrations are SOOO cool. It's a wonderful way to teach children both about counting and to look outside at the birds around them.” - Amazon review by mknc
