The Best Stories for Kids 8 and Under

Reading is an essential part of growing up. One of parent’s greatest past times is reading a book to their children. Recognizable characters, fun stories, and beautiful photos capture the attention of even the littlest of family members. Today I’m sharing some of the top stories for kids ages 8 and under this season. There are a total of 7 books, plus 2 recommended books for ages 8 and older.

The Best Stories for Kids 8 and under

A big thanks to Disney Book Group for providing these books for review. All opinions are my own.

Disney is a popular choice for most families. Recently, the company introduced Elena of Avalor to the Disney Channel and theme parks. The series is about a Latina princess and her family, and is a spin-off to Disney Junior’s Sofia the First, as both shows take place in the same universe.

Two children’s books we would recommend for your little one, boy or girl, is Disney’s Elena and the Secret of Avalor and Elena of Avalor A Palace Fit for a Princess. Both hardcover books follow the enchanting story of Princess Elena and her adventures, and retail between $13 and $16. A Palace Fit for a Princess includes over 100 interactive flaps for young kids to discover. These are really fun books for your little ones!

Are you looking for story book that will cheer up your little one, and you in the process? On tough days (because parenting is no easy feat) open The Happiest Book Ever! by Bob Shea. The book is of course a happy one with a dancing cake, candy parade, and hug monster. But how did a frowney frog get in the book? You’ll have to follow the delightful story to see! The book also includes sure-fire frog jokes at the end too!

Learn more about the upcoming Disney Moana film, hitting theaters this November, with these fun stories for kids! Moana and the Ocean is hardcover jacketed book based on the animated film, and follows the story of Moana and her unique relationship with the ocean.

If your kids enjoy read-along stories, this Moana Read-Along Storybook & CD is perfect for them! The CD includes character voices and fun sound effects. It teaches children about Moana, the spirited daughter of a mighty chief and allows for a fun interactive way to learn about the upcoming movie. 

The Friend Ship by Kat Yeh follows and adorable hedgehog who’s on a mission to find the friend ship. She meets all sorts of interesting animals along the way, and soon realizes what she’s looking for is right in front of her. Friends! The hardcover book includes beautiful photos that capture the encouraging story about friendship.

We were first introduced to Bruce bear last year in Mother Bruce. It quickly became a family favorite, and the boys were very excited to see a new addition to the story in Hotel Bruce. The hardcover story continues when Bruce gets home from a southern migration trip with his goslings. He is tired. He is grumpy. And he is definitely not in the mood to share his home with the trio of mice who have turned his den into a hotel. You can help but laugh at this funny bear and his grumpy, grumpy story. I promise it really is silly and funny!

Two additional books to consider are The Story of Moana: A Tale of Courage and Adventure and Art of Coloring: Moana. Both books are recommended for children between 8 and 12 years of age. The Story of Moana is a hardcover novel in the form of mini folktales and includes bonus temporary tattoos! The Art of Coloring book is filled with 100 images ready to be colored. It’s great for any child who enjoys coloring, doodling, and artistry. It reminds me of the “adult” coloring books that have become so common these days. It’s really a neat book – I even enjoy coloring in it.

All of these stories for kids would make excellent gifts, and come highly recommended by us!

What book do you think your children will enjoy most?