26 Enchanting Woodland Animal Books For Kids

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Are you looking for some fantastic reads to introduce your kids to the wonders of the woodland world? If so, you are in the right place!

We’ve rounded up woodland animal books that promise to take your little ones on exciting journeys through the woods. These books have heartwarming tales and beautiful illustrations, from playful raccoons to majestic squirrels.

Whether you’re looking for bedtime stories, educational reads, or just a fun escape into the wild, these woodland adventures are perfect for kids of all ages.

Check out the fun read aloud books below and find new favorites for your kid’s bookshelf!

Story Books About Woodland Animals

collage image of forest animal kids' books with the words 26 woodland animal kids books

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Over in the Forest

This book combines counting, rhyming, and a seek-and-find game all in one! From beavers that build to skunks that spray, each page is filled with rhythmic text and vibrant illustrations that make learning fun.

Every page also has a hidden owl to keep little ones engaged. This book has won multiple awards and is a favorite on preschool and elementary school shelves!

For additional activities, check out bald eagle worksheets to help kids with letter recognition and handwriting practice.

The Mitten

This cozy winter tale is about a young boy who loses his mitten in the snow. A delightful parade of animals ends up squeezing into it!

The stunning illustrations bring this classic Ukrainian folktale to life, making it a heartwarming story of unexpected friendships and snug winter adventures.

The Hat

In this story, a little girl’s lost hat becomes a fashion sensation among the forest animals. Watch as a hedgehog, a badger, and critters try on the hat in Jan Brett's beautifully detailed illustrations.

It’s a whimsical tale full of fun and surprises!

Related: Eagle Name Craft

Three Bears of the Pacific Northwest

Meet a trio of bear siblings who are anything but ordinary in this fun twist on the classic tale!

Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, this book combines humor, adventure, and beautiful illustrations to create a unique story that will keep your kids entertained from start to finish.

After reading this book, print out the template for this toilet paper roll bear craft to help the book come to life.

Wake Up, Woodlands

Say hello to the wonders of nature with "Wake Up, Woodlands"! This beautifully illustrated book invites young readers to awaken the woodland creatures as the seasons change.

With rhythmic text and stunning visuals, it encourages kids to explore the forest's beauty and the wildlife's magic.

The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night

This Caldecott Honor book takes us on a spirited adventure with a wily fox in a sleepy New England town. As the fox roams for a meal, vivid autumn vistas come alive, and you can almost hear the crackle of crisp fall leaves and the ripples of the moonlit river.

It’s a classic American folk song brought to life with stunning illustrations!

After reading the story, check out the handprint fox craft to keep the learning fun and interactive.

The Quiet Forest

In this picture book, a mischievous mouse wanders through a quiet forest. But when a minor mishap sets off a chain of events, the whole woodland comes alive!

With charming illustrations, it’s a delightful tale of unexpected adventures and cozy nights.

Related: Woodland Animal Coloring Pages

Little Fox in the Forest

What would you do if a real fox ran off with your favorite stuffed animal? That’s exactly what happens to a young girl at the playground. She and her friend follow the fox into the woods and discover a magical village filled with miniature stone cottages and tiny treehouses.

The woodland creatures they encounter are just too cute! The illustrations are so delightful you’ll want to explore this wordless picture book repeatedly.

After this book, also try out this fox puppet craft!

Bear Snores On

Bears’s cave fills with animal friends as he sleeps through the cold winter. But even after tea has been brewed and corn has been popped, Bear snores on!

It is a cozy bedtime story with adorable illustrations, perfect for little ones.

Woodland Dreams

Say goodnight to beloved woodland animals as they prepare to sleep. This sweet bedtime book combines familiar routines with nonfiction elements.

Each adorable animal has its special nighttime routine, and the watercolor illustrations bring the cozy woodland world to life.

Related: Wolf Paper Bag Puppet Craft

This Moose Belongs to Me

Meet Wilfred, a boy with rules, and his pet moose, Marcel. Wilfred teaches Marcel the dos and don’ts of being a good pet. But sometimes, even moose have their ideas!

This heartwarming tale is a reminder that friendship and acceptance matter more than perfection.

Related: Moose Handprint Craft

Let it Be, Beaver!

Duncan the beaver loves being busy but is about to learn an important lesson. When he builds a home by a beautiful pond, he discovers that not everything can be perfect.

With newfound friends, Duncan learns there’s a time to be busy and let things be. It's a cute and clever story about patience and acceptance!

Oh Deer!

Brooklyn, a well-meaning citizen, spots a white-tailed fawn in trouble. As a thunderstorm looms, she must decide whether to intervene or let nature take its course.

This entertaining story teaches kids about wild animals and what to do if they spot a lone fawn.

A Whiff of Pine, a Hint of Skunk: A Forest of Poems

This collection by Deborah Ruddell is an entertaining assortment of poems that brings the forest to life.

Each poem is a whimsical exploration of the woods' sights, sounds, and smells, from the fresh scent of pine to the unmistakable whiff of a skunk.

The playful language and charming illustrations make this book a joy to read aloud, perfect for sparking a love of poetry in young readers.

When your kids are done reading this book, add this skunk paper bag puppet craft for some artistic fun.

Badger’s Parting Gifts

Prepare for a touching journey through the forest as Badger's friends learn to cope with his passing.

This beautifully illustrated book handles the theme of loss with grace and sensitivity, making it a comforting read for children dealing with similar experiences.

The story is a gentle reminder that the memories and lessons from loved ones stay with us forever, even after they are gone.

The Only Way is Badger

This book is a fun and thought-provoking story about acceptance and individuality. Badger believes his way is the only way and tries to make all the other animals conform to his rules.

But when his friends start to leave, Badger learns an important lesson about valuing differences.

With its engaging storyline and vibrant illustrations, this book is a great conversation starter about diversity and inclusion.

One Fox: A Counting Book Thriller

Get your kids' counting skills ready for a thrilling ride with this playful and suspenseful counting book. Each page adds a touch of excitement and humor, making counting an adventurous and fun experience!

Related: Easy Fox Paper Craft

Scaredy Squirrel

Imagine a little squirrel so scared of the outside world that he creates an elaborate plan to stay safe!

With a quirky personality and hilarious precautions, this little critter teaches kids that sometimes stepping out of our comfort zone can lead to unexpected adventures. The colorful charts and plans are just too funny!

Related: Squirrel Craft

The Busy Beaver

There’s a beaver who’s always on the go, constantly busy building and working hard. But when he tries to speed up the pace, he finds himself in a series of funny and unexpected predicaments.

This story is about staying true to yourself and the joy of hard work!

Little Beaver and the Echo

Here’s a charming tale about a little beaver who discovers the magic of friendship through the sounds of nature. As he learns to embrace the echoes around him, he finds that sometimes, the best companions share the same space—even if they’re just reflections!

It’s a sweet story about connection and the beauty of listening.

Owl Babies

Three adorable baby owls wake up one night to find their mother missing. As they wait for her return, they experience a range of emotions from fear to relief.

This tender story beautifully captures the bond between parents and children and reassures little ones that mom always returns.

After reading this, print this Owl Babies Puppet Craft to help your little ones develop their motor skills by crafting their version of this cute book.

Little Owl’s Night

Take a nocturnal journey with Little Owl as he explores the wonders of the night. Everything is new, from the moonlit forest to the starry sky.

This charming tale is perfect for bedtime, showing that the night is full of beauty, excitement, and nothing to fear.

Stellaluna

Stellaluna is a heartwarming tale about a young fruit bat who gets separated from her mother and ends up living with a family of birds.

Despite the differences, Stellaluna learns to adapt and embrace her unique qualities.

With stunning illustrations and a touching story, this book celebrates diversity and the importance of being true to oneself.

The Kissing Hand

When Chester the raccoon is anxious about his first day of school, his mother shares a special secret—the Kissing Hand.

This beautifully written story teaches children they can always feel their loved ones' love, even when apart.

Related: Raccoon Paper Bag Puppet Craft

I Want My Hat Back

Have you ever lost something and felt like it might never be found? This story is about a hat that's gone missing and the funny, clever journey to get it back.

The twisty tale will have your kids giggling at the little mix-ups!

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Sam

Sam is the crafter and founder of Simple Everyday Mom. She has been featured in Oprah Mag, Good Housekeeping, The Spruce Crafts, Country Living, The Bump and more. Read more.

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