We’re turning the page on Ipswich’s favourite books for two to three year olds, based on borrowings from the city’s libraries. Youngsters also have a say on what makes their favourite book stand out from the rest.
I like Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy because the dog gets up to mischief. My dog is like Hairy.
The caterpillar in this book turns into a beautiful butterfly after eating lots of food like fruit and lollipops.
Obviously Isla can’t read yet but she loves this board book, The Very Quiet Cricket. It was a present from grandma and this is the book that she always picks off the shelf.
Top books for two to three year olds, according to library borrowing numbers.
1. In My Heart: A Book of Feelings (2014), Jo Witek
Ipswich Libraries’ most popular book for two- to three-year-olds explores emotions like happiness, sadness, bravery and anger. It encourages emotional engagement and empowers children to express themselves. A good option for teaching kids about what they are feeling inside.
2. Hugo the Hare’s Rainy Day (2014), Jez Alborough
Hugo hates the rain but he has to help his stranded animal friends when the big wet arrives. Catchy rhymes pave the way for life lessons on teamwork, problem solving and the importance of friendship. The perfect page turner for a cold winter’s day.
3. Piranhas Don’t Eat Bananas (2015), Aaron Blabey
Brian is a piranha. He’s also a vegetarian and loves to eat bananas. That’s not ideal and his friends aren’t happy about his fondness for fruit. The bestselling author of Pig the Pug, Blabey delivers another bunch of peely good laughs.
4. Scary Night (2014), Lesley Gibbes
Rhythm and rhyme set the scene for a night out with Hare, Cat and Pig. The three friends embark on a moonlit journey that takes children to creeks and caves. Beautifully illustrated by Stephen Michael King, the story is stacked with surprises and suspense.
5. Spot’s Baby Sister (1989), Eric Hill
This all-time classic is still being borrowed in big numbers almost 30 years after its original release. The pioneering puppy of children’s literature is joined by his baby sister in a lift-the-flap board book that remains a family favourite all over the world.
Our library programs encourage the sharing of stories, rhymes, songs, conversations and everyday interactions with children to help build a foundation for development and learning that can last a lifetime.
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