Children's books come in a confusing range of formats, and age labels on covers are only a rough guide. Knowing what each kind of book is designed to do makes it much easier to pick something your child will actually enjoy, whether you are reading it to them or they are reading alone.
Thick cardboard pages that survive chewing and grabbing. The best ones have high-contrast pictures, faces, simple words and rhythm. The point is shared attention and talk, not story.
The classic children's book: usually 24 to 40 pages, where pictures and words tell the story together. Picture books are written to be read aloud by an adult, so their vocabulary is often richer than children could read alone. They cover every genre, from simple bedtime stories for toddlers to funny, clever stories that seven-year-olds love. On My Book Hub, most books for ages 1-3 and 3-6 are picture books.
Books designed for children learning to read. They use short sentences, repetition and words children can sound out, often with levels printed on the cover. They are for practice, which is why they can feel simple. Keep reading richer picture books aloud alongside them.
The first step into longer stories: short chapters, larger print and some illustrations, often in series with familiar characters. A chapter book read over several nights is a good way to build listening stamina before a child reads them alone.
Full-length novels written for this age, with more complex plots and characters facing real problems. Content is designed to be appropriate for pre-teens, which is different from "young adult" books aimed at teenagers.
Many children prefer facts to fiction, and that is reading too. Non-fiction about animals, space, how things work or history builds vocabulary and background knowledge that helps with school reading later. Books linked to early learning goals, like counting, letters, feelings or routines, are especially useful for younger children.
For books a child reads alone, a simple check many teachers use is the five-finger test: open to a page in the middle and have your child read it, holding up a finger for each word they do not know.
For books you read aloud, the level can be well above what your child can read. Interest matters far more than difficulty.
A seven-year-old who loves a toddler book they remember is not "going backwards". Familiar books are comforting and build confidence. Equally, a younger child may happily listen to a story aimed at older children if it is read aloud. Follow your child's interest and keep a mix.
This guide is general information for parents and carers. If you are worried about your child's development, speech or reading, talk to their teacher or doctor.
Browse the full library by age, or search the store by genre. Many books are free to read with no account.