When I was a child, my dad felt like the coolest person in the world — knowledgeable, capable, and endlessly dependable. Now that I’m a parent, I want my son to share that same close, joyful bond with his dad. With Father’s Day approaching, I’ve put together a curated list of 16 delightful books for dads to read with their children. These selections are perfect for creating memories, sharing laughs, and celebrating the special relationship between fathers and kids.
Reading together is one of the simplest, most meaningful gifts you can give. The books below cover a range of tones — from tender and sentimental to playful and funny — so you’ll find great options for dads who love to joke, those who cherish quiet moments, and everyone in between.
Browse this list to find heartwarming stories to share at bedtime, silly picture books for afternoon giggles, and charming tales that capture the many ways dads show love and support. Each title highlights a different facet of fatherhood and encourages connection through reading.
Dad and Son Books
These books celebrate the special bond between fathers and sons, full of adventure, humor, and heartfelt moments that invite shared experiences and laughter.
My Dad Thinks He’s Funny by Katrina Germein
Katrina Germein’s My Dad Thinks He’s Funny is a playful, laugh-out-loud book about a dad who loves cheesy jokes. With witty text and quirky illustrations, it’s perfect for families who enjoy silly humor and the groan-worthy charm of classic dad jokes.
I Love My Daddy by David Bedford
Join Little Squirrel and Daddy Squirrel on a sweet woodland adventure that celebrates encouragement, bravery, and unconditional love. Vivid illustrations and gentle storytelling make this a touching read for father-and-son snuggle time.
Just Like Daddy (A Frank Asch Bear Book) by Frank Asch
Frank Asch’s classic tale follows a little bear who idolizes his father and wants to be just like him. The story celebrates admiration, family routines, and small surprises that remind readers that children also learn from their mothers and others around them.
Daddy Makes the Best Spaghetti by Anna Grossnickle Hines
This humorous, heartwarming story highlights playfulness and everyday fun between a father and son. From imaginative antics to a shared love of cooking, this book celebrates whimsical moments that make family life memorable.
Hero Dad by Melinda Hardin
Hero Dad offers a heartfelt tribute to fathers who serve in the military and to all dads who act as heroes in their children’s lives. The story honors courage, sacrifice, and the quiet ways a father’s love supports a child.
The Best Daddy in the World by Susanne Lutje
This charming book uses simple rhymes and adorable animal characters to celebrate all the little things that make dads the best in their children’s eyes. It’s a sweet, affirming read that’s ideal for sharing aloud.
Dad and Daughter Books
These titles capture the special, often tender bond between fathers and daughters, from quiet moments to shared traditions and playful routines.
Daddy Loves His Little Girl by John Carter Cash
Written by John Carter Cash, this beautifully illustrated book celebrates the affectionate adventures of a father and his daughter. It’s a gentle, heartfelt tribute to the special moments they share.
Dance Me, Daddy by Cindy Morgan
In Dance Me, Daddy, a father teaches his daughter to dance, and their shared love of movement becomes a source of lifelong memories. The book highlights how traditions and simple rituals can deepen a father-daughter bond.
Daddy Cuddles by Anne Gutman
Daddy Cuddles celebrates affectionate, everyday moments through charming animal families. The cuddly illustrations and warm scenes make it a perfect read for snuggle time and imaginative play.
Books for Fathers and Children
These versatile titles are wonderful for any child and highlight the universal love between fathers and their children. They work equally well for family storytime or as thoughtful gifts for new dads.
Daddy Is My Hero by Dawn Richards
Vibrant and engaging, Daddy Is My Hero shows how everyday acts of love and support make fathers true heroes in their children’s eyes. The book’s lively illustrations and uplifting message make it a favorite for shared reading.
Daddy Hugs by Nancy Tafuri
Nancy Tafuri’s Daddy Hugs offers tender couplets and gentle illustrations that celebrate animal dads and their little ones. Surprising reveals and soothing imagery make this an excellent bedtime or cuddle-time book.
My Daddy and I by P. K. Hallinan
P.K. Hallinan’s My Daddy and I celebrates ordinary shared moments — simple activities that become cherished memories. The rhyming text and gentle illustrations make it an ideal read for bonding and reflection.
My Dad Is the Best Playground by Luciana Navarro Powell
This playful book celebrates fathers as imaginative playmates. With bright illustrations and fun scenarios, it encourages parents and kids to turn everyday spaces into places for play and laughter.
When Dads Don’t Grow Up by Marjorie Blain Parker
This humorous book celebrates dads who stay playful and young at heart. It’s a fun reminder that a dad’s willingness to be silly can create some of the best memories.
What Dads Can’t Do by Douglas Wood
Douglas Wood’s witty book explores the amusing imperfections of dads — the lovable mishaps and goofy moments that make them endearing. It’s a light, affectionate read that invites giggles and appreciation.
Daddy Loves You So Much by Thomas Nelson
This padded board book features cozy scenes of animal dads and their little ones doing everyday things together. It’s a comforting read that reassures children of their dad’s love and is ideal for the youngest readers.
These titles make thoughtful Father’s Day gifts or lovely additions to a nursery for new dads. Each book encourages connection, play, and the kind of closeness that lasts a lifetime.
Originally published in May 2015 and updated May 2023.