As a child, my dad was the epitome of cool – he knew everything and could do anything. Now that I’m a parent, I want to foster that same bond between my son and his dad. That’s why I’ve gathered this delightful collection of 16 fun books for dads to share with their little ones this Father’s Day.
With Father’s Day just around the corner, there’s no better gift than the gift of quality time spent together. These books for dads offer the perfect opportunity for fathers to bond with their sons or daughters during story time. Ranging from heartwarming and sentimental to lighthearted and humorous, you’re guaranteed to discover several fantastic father-themed books right here.
Take a look at our other book lists while you’re here. Meanwhile, let’s dive into these books that celebrate dads and their kids.
Related: 8 Father and Son Bonding Ideas
Dad and Son Books
Fathers and sons share a special bond, and these books are all about celebrating that relationship as the characters tell jokes, embark on adventures, and learn valuable lessons.
My Dad Thinks He’s Funny by Katrina Germein
“My Dad Thinks He’s Funny” is a hilarious book that’s perfect for anyone with a dad who loves cracking cheesy jokes. Katrina Germein’s witty text and quirky illustrations will have the whole family laughing out loud as they read about one dad’s never-ending stream of dad jokes.
Get ready to giggle and groan with this laugh-out-loud gem!
I Love My Daddy by David Bedford
Join Little Squirrel and Daddy Squirrel as they embark on a heartwarming adventure through the woods in “I Love My Daddy.” This delightful tale highlights the special bond between a father and son as they explore together.
Little Squirrel eagerly demonstrates his skills but soon needs Daddy’s help. With vivid illustrations and engaging text, young readers will be captivated by this sweet woodland story that emphasizes the power of encouragement, bravery, and unconditional love.
Just Like Daddy (A Frank Asch Bear Book) by Frank Asch
Explore a day in the life of a young bear who can’t wait to grow up and be “Just Like Daddy” in this adorable story by Frank Asch. The bear cub admires his father and tries to emulate him in various ways, showcasing the timeless admiration children have for their dads.
As the family goes fishing, however, Little Bear discovers that he shares a special talent with his mom too. With warm illustrations and a sweet message, this delightful book will inspire smiles and cherished moments between fathers and their little ones.
Daddy Makes the Best Spaghetti by Anna Grossnickle Hines
Get ready for a super fun ride with “Daddy Makes the Best Spaghetti,” an adorable and heartwarming story about Daddy and Corey’s hilarious adventures together. From Daddy’s side-splitting “Bathman” act to cooking the yummiest spaghetti, there’s never a dull moment with these two.
You’ll find yourself chuckling as Daddy playfully treats Corey like a sack of potatoes or wears Corey’s pajama bottoms like dog ears. Mom’s pretty awesome, too, joining in on the fun and supporting their father-son cooking escapades.
Hero Dad by Melinda Hardin
“Hero Dad” is a heartwarming tribute to all the dads who serve their country and their families with bravery and love. Melinda Hardin’s touching story and captivating illustrations show how a military dad can be a real-life superhero for his child.
This book is a fantastic way to celebrate and honor the hero dads in our lives.
The Best Daddy in the World by Susanne Lutje
Get ready to celebrate all the awesome daddies out there with “The Best Daddy in the World.” This sweet book features little animals (and a little boy) sharing their favorite things about their daddies in charming, simple rhymes.
Whether it’s a bear cub or a lion cub, every kid knows that their daddy is the best.
Dad and Daughter Books
There’s no denying that daughters usually have their dads wrapped around their little fingers. Read these books to celebrate their special connection.
Daddy Loves His Little Girl by John Carter Cash
A tender and heartwarming story, “Daddy Loves His Little Girl” is penned by John Carter Cash, son of legendary singer Johnny Cash. This beautifully illustrated book captures the love between a father and his daughter through a series of charming adventures.
A touching reminder of the special bond shared between dads and their little girls, this book makes for an ideal Father’s Day read.
Dance Me, Daddy by Cindy Morgan
In the heartwarming tale “Dance Me, Daddy,” Cindy Morgan tells the story of a loving father who teaches his daughter how to dance. As she grows up, the father-daughter duo continues to share their love for dancing, creating a lifetime of cherished memories.
Daddy Cuddles by Anne Gutman
“Daddy Cuddles” is the perfect book to celebrate the sweet, affectionate bond between daddies and their little ones. This heartwarming book shows how animal daddies can’t help but cuddle and love their adorable babies in their own special ways.
It’s an excellent gift for hands-on dads, dads-to-be, or any father who loves to snuggle up with their kiddo. Your little ones will love looking at the cute illustrations and acting out the cuddles with their daddies. Let’s hear it for all the affectionate dads out there!
Books for Fathers and Children
Great for boys or girls, these books celebrate the love of fathers and their children, which is universal. You can’t go wrong with one of these reads!
Daddy Is My Hero by Dawn Richards
“Daddy Is My Hero” is a vibrant and engaging story by Dawn Richards that showcases the many ways fathers can be heroes in their children’s lives. As a young child admires their dad’s superhero qualities, they learn that love, support, and encouragement are what truly make a hero.
With its captivating illustrations and relatable narrative, this book is a heartening reminder of the powerful role fathers play in shaping their children’s lives.
Daddy Hugs by Nancy Tafuri
“Daddy Hugs” is a super cozy and heartwarming book by Nancy Tafuri that takes you and your little one on a journey through a woodland wonderland. The gorgeous watercolor and pencil illustrations show off all kinds of adorable daddy animals and their kiddos, with fun animal noises and sweet couplets that’ll make you go “aww.”
You’ll meet all sorts of critters, from turtles and beavers to foxes and owls, and there’s even a little surprise on each page hinting at the next animal duo. Perfect for bedtime snuggles or group storytime, this book is a must-have for daddies and their little ones who love to get lost in a charming world together.
My Daddy and I by P. K. Hallinan
Celebrate the special moments shared between fathers and their children with P. K. Hallinan’s “My Daddy and I.” This heartwarming book showcases the joy and love that bloom from the simple activities and experiences a father and child share.
With enchanting illustrations and a rhyming narrative, this book serves as a wonderful reminder of the cherished memories created together.
My Dad Is the Best Playground by Luciana Navarro Powell
You’re sure to get lots of smiles and giggles with “My Dad Is the Best Playground“! This super fun book by Luciana Navarro Powell shows off all the awesome ways dads can be the best playmates ever.
With vibrant illustrations and a playful storyline, you and your little ones will be inspired to join in on the fun and turn your living room into a playground, too!
When Dads Don’t Grow Up by Marjorie Blain Parker
Get ready to giggle with “When Dads Don’t Grow Up,” a hilarious and heartwarming book that celebrates dads who are still kids at heart. Marjorie Blain Parker’s funny story and charming illustrations perfectly capture the fun and silliness of dads who just can’t help but join in on the fun with their kiddos.
This one’s for all the young-at-heart dads out there!
What Dads Can’t Do by Douglas Wood
“What Dads Can’t Do” is a funny and sweet book that takes a playful look at all the goofy things dads just can’t seem to do (like keeping ice cream cones from melting!).
Douglas Wood’s witty text and endearing illustrations will have you and your little ones giggling and appreciating all the wonderfully imperfect things that make dads so special.
Daddy Loves You So Much by Thomas Nelson
“Daddy Loves You So Much” is the perfect book for daddies to remind their little ones just how much they’re loved. This adorable padded board book features animal dads and their kids doing all the fun things families do together, like playing, reading, and bedtime snuggles.
Your little ones will feel safe and cozy as they see how much they’re loved by their amazing daddies, no matter what. It’s the ultimate heartwarming read for daddy-child bonding time!
These books would also make great gifts for someone who’s becoming a dad for the first time, so don’t forget to snatch up a couple for baby shower gifts.
Originally published in May 2015 and updated May 2023.
Crystal
Thursday 21st of May 2015
This is a great idea for Father's Day, and a great keepsake!