By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: June 10, 2009
Father’s Day (US) is on Sunday, June 21. Just in case you’re looking for something small and thoughtful, I have put together this list of “daddy and me” books. Only 50% of dads read to their children who are under the age of three, so it seems that some may need a little extra encouragement. By giving a dad a special book to share with his child (of any age) you are giving him the opportunity to create lasting moments that will not only benefit both dad and child emotionally, but will hopefully lead to children who want to read for pleasure. Enjoy my hand-picked list and give the gift of reading!
When Papa Comes Home Tonight
by Eileen Spinelli (Author) and David McPhail (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 1- 5
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing (April 28, 2009)
Publisher’s synopsis:
When Papa comes home tonight, dear child,
(I promise – not too late)
you’ll hear me whistling up the road.
You’ll meet me at the gate.
It can be hard waiting for Papa to come home, but it’ll be worth it because you’ll both have so much fun when he does! From singing songs and making dinner to playing all the way until bedtime, just hanging with Papa is one of the most joyous ways to end the day.
Eileen Spinelli’s highly anticipated follow-up to the bestselling When Mama Comes Home Tonight, complete with gorgeous illustrations from David McPhail, is a soothing celebration of simple moments shared between parent and child.
Add this book to your collection: When Papa Comes Home Tonight
by Sebastien Braun
Reading level: Ages 4-7
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins; Complete Numbers Starting with 1, 1st Ed edition (April 13, 2004)
Publisher’s synopsis: “I love my Daddy.” – a phrase that fills the heart of every proud dad. This book is a celebration of fatherhood conveyed in pictures and words.
Add this book to your collection: I Love My Daddy
by Tim Warnes (Author), Jane Chapman (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 0 – 6
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins (April 29, 2008)
Publisher’s synopsis: Daddies come in all shapes and sizes—slimy and scruffy, long and fluffy! And daddies make all different kinds of noises—squeak and chirp, buzz and bumble! But what do all daddies have in common? They make us feel safe and snug with tender daddy hugs!
Add this book to your collection: Daddy Hug
Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me
by Eric Carle
Reading level: All Ages
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing; Min edition (August 20, 1991)
Publisher’s synopsis: This story literally unfolds as pages open dramatically, extending both outward and upward. Monica wants the moon to play with, so her Papa sets out to get it for her. It isn’t easy to climb all the way to the moon, but he finally succeeds–only to find that the moon is too big to carry home! The way the problem is resolved is a joyful surprise. Illustrated.
Add this book to your collection: Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me
Things To Do With Dad: Lots of fun for everyone
by Scholastic
Reading level: Ages 9+
Hardcover: 144 pages
Publisher: Scholastic Nonfiction (April 15, 2009)
Publisher’s synopsis: This guide is packed with indoor and outdoor activities that kids and dads can enjoy together. You’ll learn how to:
Turn your kitchen in Dad’s diner.
Build a snow fort together.
Hold a scavenger hunt.
Go on a fishing expedition… and much more!
Add this book to your collection: Things To Do With Dad: Lots of fun for everyone