Parents

5 min read

our favourite bedtime stories for World Book Day

written by Simon Anthony

updated 24.02.2025

Great books for younger readers are Guess How Much I Love You and The Gruffalo, perfect for bedtime and as a costume idea for World Book Day.
Book options for older children include classics like The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and The Hobbit, which all have iconic characters to dress up as on World Book Day.
Children's stories promote imagination, language development and bonding at bedtime.

our favourite bedtime stories for world book day

World Book Day is the perfect time to celebrate the magic of storytelling. Whether you’re looking for World Book Day ideas or bedtime stories to spark your child’s imagination, there’s something for everyone.

At Silentnight, we’ve created a list of our favourite bedtime stories for various age groups; from the youngest infants to pre-teens. Each book has been selected not only for its creative storytelling and popularity but also for its suitability for learning development and reading abilities. Not only do these stories make for great bedtime reads, but they also feature some of the most beloved World Book Day characters – perfect for easy and creative costumes to go to school in.

Dive into our top picks and discover the magic of reading with your child.

best bedtime stories for ages 0-4:

Guess How Much I Love You

Author: Sam McBratney

Year: 1994

This heart-warming tale follows Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare as they express their love for each other in increasingly creative ways. For ages 0-4, Guess How Much I Love You is the perfect read because its simple repetitive text has a soothing rhythm. It introduces children to the concept of expressing emotions through language, which is perfect for early language development. The book's gentle illustrations and affectionate storyline also make it a comforting choice for bedtime.

Costume Idea: Dress as Little Nutbrown Hare with brown leggings, a jumper and some handmade felt bunny ears.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

Author: Judith Kerr

Year: 1968

This charming story features a tiger who unexpectedly arrives at a family’s home for tea, leading to a delightful and somewhat chaotic adventure. The author, Judith Kerr, also penned the popular Mog series which deserves a shout-out too for its popularity and impact. The Tiger Who Came to Tea captivates young listeners with its whimsical plot and charming illustrations. For children aged 0-4, its engaging narrative and humorous twist provides entertainment while encouraging imaginative thinking.

Costume Idea: A striped orange onesie or jumper with drawn-on whiskers makes an easy tiger costume. Pair it with a toy teacup for the full effect.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Author: Eric Carle

Year: 1969

This beloved story follows the journey of a hungry caterpillar as it munches through various foods until it eventually transforms into a beautiful butterfly. With its colourful, engaging illustrations and simple text, The Very Hungry Caterpillar is perfect for young children. It helps teach counting, days of the week, and the life cycle of a butterfly, making it both educational and delightful for ages 1-4.

Costume Idea: Create a simple caterpillar look with a green jumper, red hat and pipe cleaner antennae.

The Gruffalo

Author: Julia Donaldson

Year: 1999

In this imaginative tale, a cunning mouse invents a fearsome creature called the Gruffalo to scare off predators, but ends up encountering the very creature he invented. The Gruffalo is a modern classic that uses rhyme and rhythm to capture young imaginations. Its engaging storyline and quirky illustrations make it a great choice for children aged 2-5, promoting both language development and creativity.

Costume Idea: A brown onesie with felt tusks and claws, or go as the mouse with grey clothes and big ears.

Where the Wild Things Are

Author: Maurice Sendak

Publication Year: 1963

This story tells of Max, a boy who travels to a fantastical land of wild creatures and becomes their king before returning home to his loving mother. Where the Wild Things Are is renowned for its rich illustrations and imaginative story. For children aged 2-6, it offers a wonderful escape into a world of fantasy while addressing themes of emotions and returning home.

Costume Idea: Max’s crown and white onesie are easy to recreate, or go wild with a furry monster outfit.

best bedtime stories for ages 5-8:

Winnie-the-Pooh

Author: A.A. Milne

Year: 1926

Follow the adventures of Winnie the Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood as they navigate friendship and everyday challenges. Winnie the Pooh remains a timeless favourite, offering gentle lessons in friendship and kindness. Its simple yet profound stories and charming illustrations make it ideal for children aged 4-6, fostering early reading skills and a love for literature.

Costume Idea: A yellow jumper, red T-shirt, and bear ears make an easy Pooh Bear look.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

Author: Lewis Carroll

Year: 1865

Alice’s adventures in a fantastical world of peculiar creatures and whimsical events are both enchanting and thought-provoking. For children aged 5 and up, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland stimulates imagination with its nonsensical world and clever wordplay. Its engaging narrative encourages curiosity and critical thinking.

Costume Idea: A blue dress, white apron, and a headband with a black bow create Alice’s iconic look.

The Wind in the Willows

Author: Kenneth Grahame

Year: 1908

The adventures of Mole, Ratty, Toad and Badger unfold in this classic tale of friendship and mischief in the English countryside. The Wind in the Willows offers rich storytelling and beautiful illustrations, making it perfect for ages 7-9. Its themes of loyalty and adventure resonate well with children at this stage of their development, enhancing their reading enjoyment.

Costume Idea: A green suit and a cap for Mr. Toad, or a tweed jacket and whiskers for Ratty.

The Magic Faraway Tree

Author: Enid Blyton

Year: 1943

In this magical adventure, children discover a tree that leads to fantastical lands where they embark on exciting escapades. The Magic Faraway Tree captures the imagination with its enchanting world and adventurous plots. For children aged 7-9, it encourages creativity and excitement in reading.

Costume Idea: A whimsical fairy tale outfit, or dress as Moon-Face with yellow trousers and a big smile.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Author: C.S. Lewis

Year: 1950

Four siblings discover a magical wardrobe that leads to the land of Narnia, where they encounter mystical creatures and a battle between good and evil. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is perfect for ages 7-10, offering a rich fantasy world and a compelling narrative. It helps develop a child’s imagination and understanding of moral values.

Costume Idea: long red coat for Lucy, a white gown for the White Witch or a lion onesie for Aslan.

best bedtime stories for ages 9-12:

Swallows and Amazons

Author: Arthur Ransome

Year: 1930

This story follows the adventures of the Walker children and their friends as they sail and explore the English Lake District. Swallows and Amazons provides an adventurous narrative that’s perfect for ages 8-13. Its detailed setting and engaging plot promote a love for adventure and the outdoors.

Costume Idea: A striped T-shirt, shorts and a toy telescope for a sailor-inspired look.

The Secret Garden

Author: Frances Hodgson Burnett

Year: 1911

Mary Lennox discovers a hidden, neglected garden and, with the help of new friends, brings it back to life while healing herself. The Secret Garden is ideal for ages 8-10, offering themes of transformation and growth. Its lyrical prose and poignant story encourage empathy and a love of nature.

Costume Idea: A vintage dress with a flower crown for a classic Mary Lennox look.

Artemis Fowl

Author: Eoin Colfer

Year: 2001

Artemis Fowl, a young criminal mastermind, kidnaps a fairy in a bid to restore his family’s fortune, setting off a thrilling fantasy adventure. For ages 9-14, Artemis Fowl combines fantasy and adventure with a clever protagonist. Its fast-paced narrative and complex characters will appeal to readers looking for an exciting and immersive story.

Costume Idea: A black suit and sunglasses to capture Artemis Fowl’s signature style.

The Hobbit

Author: J.R.R. Tolkien

Year: 1937

Bilbo Baggins embarks on a grand adventure to reclaim a stolen treasure from the dragon Smaug, discovering courage and friendship along the way. The Hobbit is a classic choice for ages 8-12, introducing young readers to high fantasy with its richly detailed world and engaging plot. It’s an excellent bridge to more complex fantasy literature.

Costume Idea: A green cloak, curly wig and furry feet to become Bilbo.

His Dark Materials

Author: Philip Pullman

Year: 1995

Lyra Belacqua uncovers dark truths about her world and embarks on a journey to confront powerful forces in this gripping fantasy series. For ages 10-12, His Dark Materials offers a sophisticated and thought-provoking narrative. Its rich world-building and complex themes make it suitable for advanced readers ready for deeper stories.

Costume Idea: A faux-fur coat and an alethiometer prop to become Lyra.

world book day activities

Reading and getting into character are just two ways to celebrate World Book Day. Here are some other fun activities to try:

Create a bedtime reading nook: Cosy up with blankets, fairy lights and a stack of bedtime books.

Storytime sleepover: Dress as your favourite book characters and read aloud before bedtime.

Make your own book cover: Get creative by designing new covers for your child’s favourite bedtime stories.

why it’s important to read to your child

Reading before bed isn’t just about winding down – it also supports language development, creativity and emotional understanding. Whether it’s a World Book Day book or an everyday favourite, sharing a bedtime story can create cherished memories that last a lifetime.

Looking for more ideas? Learn more about creating the perfect bedtime routine for your little one, and usher in an age of calm nights.