Finding the perfect gift to welcome a new bundle of joy into the world can be tough, but books never go out of style. Instead of showering the parents-to-be and baby alike with baby shower gifts they’re likely to receive, put together a basket of books for a gift that’ll be loved and cherished now and in years to come. Mom, dad, and baby will have so much fun perusing the carefully hand-picked selection of books you’ve lovingly chosen. You won’t be stuck for baby shower gift ideas with so many great children’s authors out there.
Books for Baby Shower
The best books for a baby shower are easy to find. Plan your basket of books and decide whether you want to target a specific age range, have a selection of books for baby to toddler to child, or if you want to incorporate mom and dad’s interests and passions. Include other fun items in your basket such as bookmarks and baby shower stickers to make a truly impressive baby shower gift.
The Classics
The Very Hungry Caterpillar – Edward Carle
A prominently featured childhood book, pass on the joy of The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s (1969) journey from caterpillar to pupa to butterfly. Wonderfully illustrated and timeless.
Goodnight Moon – Margaret Wise Brown
Published in 1947 and still being read to little ones as they’re tucked in at night, follow a bunny saying goodnight. Described as “beloved by generations of readers and listeners,” this read is poetic with soothing illustrations.
The Runaway Bunny – Margaret Wise Brown
Another Margaret Wise Brown classic, The Runaway Bunny has been continuously on shelves since its publication in 1942. The book is pretty much what it says on the cover – a runaway bunny who’s found by mom every time.
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? – Bill Martin
First published in 1967, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? is a children’s book featuring bright and bold illustrations, animals and rhythmic text.
Dear Zoo – Rod Campbell
What toddler (and parent!) doesn’t love a good lift-the-flap book? Dear Zoo sees a series of wild animals being sent from the zoo, all in the name of finding the perfect pet. Published in 1982.
But Not the Hippopotamus – Sandra Boynton
Follow the adventures of a timid hippo in Sandra Boynton’s whimsically illustrated book, But Not the Hippopotamus (1982).
Educational
TouchThinkLearn: ABC – Xavier Deneux
This simple yet brilliantly presented book, with “engaging tactile die-cuts and cut-outs”[iii] will have little ones dying to get their paws on it. A truly innovative way to introduce the ABCs.
Chika Chika Boom Boom – Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault
“A told B and B told C, “I’ll meet you at the top of the coconut tree.” The alphabet, a race, a coconut tree. A bright book with a catchy beat kids simply can’t resist.
Where is Baby’s Bellybutton? – Karen Katz
Interactive, eye-catching, and featuring flaps, Karen Katz’s Where is Baby’s Bellybutton? helps familiarize babies and toddlers with body parts in a fun way.
First 100 Words – Roger Priddy
One hundred words and one hundred images for baby to explore. A bright and bold book perfect for curious little minds.
Hello, World! Solar System – Jill McDonald
“A perfect way to bring science and nature into the busy world of a toddler, where learning never stops.” Cheery and colorful illustrations alongside with fun facts.
General
Little Gorilla – Ruth Bornstein
A cute, quirky, and relatable tale about a baby gorilla growing up in his first year of life.
The Wonderful Things You Will Be – Emily Winfield Martin
A book celebrating the unconditional love, hopes, and dreams parents have for their children, complemented with beautiful images.
Under the Silver Moon: Lullabies, Night Songs & Poems – Pamela Dalton
Perhaps one of the most beautifully illustrated children’s books, find traditional rhymes, lullabies and song to soothe the sleepless soul.
Letters to My Daughter/Letters to My Son – Lea Redmond
“Bound collections of envelopes with prompted letters to commemorate special moments or wishes for a child.”
Mama Loves You So – Terry Price
Nothing compares to a mother’s love. Made to be one of the first books you can read to baby, Mama Loves You So shows just how powerful maternal love is through wonderful illustrations and words.
Utterly Unique
A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Jennifer Adams
Introduce little ones to the classics early on thanks to BabyLit. Jennifer Adams’ A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings fairies to life in this adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic tale. Passionate literary parents will love this edition!
Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls – Elena Favilli
Discover one hundred stories detailing the lives of 100 amazing women, from past to present. Illustrations by 60 female artists from around the globe.
Counting on Community – Innosanto Nagara
Not just about counting, this book encourages kids to embrace community, feel empowered, and partake in eco-friendly hobbies and pastimes.
The Little Refugee – Anh Do and Suzanne Do
Inspired by his own experience, Anh Do tells the tale of a refugee family and the power of hope.
Sweetest Kulu – Celina Kalluk
Penned by famed Inuit throat singer, Celina Kalluk, Sweetest Kulu follows the story of a newborn baby and the gifts given to him by Arctic animals. “Lyrically and lovingly written, this visually stunning book is infused with the Inuit values of love and respect for the land and its animal inhabitants.”
Whether you’re seeking a heart-warming tale for little hearts, a keepsake that will never grow old, or a favorite childhood story parents can keep and pass on down the line, books are simply some of the best baby shower gifts you can give.
Background in Journalism and News Media. Avid aesthete, born bibliophile and confirmed cat-crazy. Happiest with a cup of tea in her hand and a furry friend by her side. Chocolate doesn’t hurt either. Firmly behind the grammar saves lives movement.
