The most crucial initial step for your child when beginning their learning to read journey is the ability to recognize and identify letters and the sounds letters make. One of the most effective ways to do this is by reading books – particularly books that focus on letters of the alphabet. However, with such a wide range of ABC and alphabet books out there, it can often be a perplexing task trying to find the best ones.
Well, if you find yourself in this position and aren’t too sure which books are best, don’t worry – I’m here to help. I’ve been in your position before, and I’d be happy to share what I know with you to help make your life that little bit easier!
Ten ABC & Alphabet Books for Toddlers & Preschoolers
#1 – A B See by Elizabeth Doyle
This exceptional board book is the perfect way to introduce your little one to the alphabet as well as a few other pieces of advanced vocabulary. Utilizing short alliterative sentences, each letter of the alphabet is shown alongside an illustration that showcases a handful of objects (that vary in color and size) that begin with that letter. Plus, the items are raised slightly, so your child can feel and explore as they learn.
#2 – Dr. Seuss’s ABC: An Amazing Alphabet Book by Dr. Seuss
Published all the way back in 1953, this book has undoubtedly stood the test of time! Hilarious, catchy artwork and funny rhymes make this ABC book a joy to read and learn from. When read aloud, it really is hilarious, and you’ll share plenty of laughs and giggle with your little one, that’s for sure. Plus, it includes lower and upper-case letters, further increasing your child’s exposure to letters, what they are, and how they are used.
#3 – Alphablock by Christopher Franceschelli
A truly unique book that features die-cut holes that form the shape of each letter, providing your child with an interactive, sensory learning experience as they get to grips with the alphabet. Furthermore, the holes allow your little one to take a peek at the next page and guess what’s animal or object awaits them!
#4 – Oops Pounce Quick Run! An Alphabet Caper by Mike Twohy
Just like your child, this book is full of action and energy – so it’s sure to be a hit with your little one! Each page showcases a different letter and a corresponding word that describes the crazy chase between a dog and a mouse! The words are big, bold, and colorful, which is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.
#5 – Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr.
Although this book was written all the way back in the 1980s, it’s still relevant today – hence why it’s still in pre-schools! A combination of rhythmic text and distinctive artwork makes for an intriguing book that just has to be read aloud. The book focuses on lowercase letters (children) that climb up into a coconut tree; however, they all fall down when they reach the top because the coconut tree can’t hold their weight. Luckily, the upper case letters (parents) come to the rescue!
#6 – Eating The Alphabet: Fruits and Vegetables from A to Z by Louise Ehlert
Another classic alphabet book from the 1980s – and another book that will be a mainstay of pre-school learning for many years to come! One glance at the cover tells you this book is going to bright and colorful – and the interior doesn’t disappoint, that’s for sure! Not only does this book celebrate the alphabet, but it also champions fruits and vegetables from all around the globe. Each fruit and vegetable is printed in both lowercase and upper-case letters to introduce children to both types of letters.
#7 – Creature ABC by Andrew Zuckerman
Incredible animals photos + letters…is there really any better (or more captivating) way to teach your child the letters of the alphabet? We think not! Children are fascinated by animals, so the stunning photos in this book will keep them engrossed from start to finish. Your little one will simply not want to stop learning about all the animals around the world.
#8 – Superhero ABC by Bob McLeod
If your little one is a fan of superheroes, this should be the first book you buy. As a kid, I was obsessed with superheroes, and I’d read, look, and explore absolutely anything to do with them! If your toddler shows an interest in superheroes, this really is the perfect way to teach them their ABCs at the same time.
#9 – The Little Red Cat Who Ran Away and Learned His ABC’S (the hard way) by Patrick McDonnell
A truly ingenious book that challenges young readers to put their skills to test…while at the same time following along with a hilarious adventure. The story – as you can probably tell from the title – is all about a red cat who is chased by an array of animals throughout the alphabet. The book challenges children to showcase their phonemic skills by seeing if they can use the sound of the highlighted letter to identify the object or animal on the page. This book is fun, educational, and effortlessly humorous, all in one.
#10 – Z is for Moose by Kelly Binkham
This book by Kelly Binkham is all about a very impatient moose who just cannot wait his turn in a parade of alphabetical animals and objects that he’s taking part in. A unique storyline combined with vivid illustrations really do make this ABC book stand out from so many others out there.