From majestic lions and gentle giraffes to curious bears and clever foxes, wild animals have always captured children’s imaginations. Whether your child dreams of adventures in far-off jungles or loves learning about the natural world, there’s a wonderful selection of wild animal books for every age. Here are some of the best stories to inspire a love of wildlife, nature, and conservation.
For Toddlers and Preschoolers (0–5 Years)
- Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae
(A rhyming story about a giraffe who learns to dance in his own way — full of positive messages.) - If I Were a Lion by Sarah Weeks
(A playful book imagining life as a wild lion — great fun for younger children.)
- Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell
(A lift-the-flap classic about wild animals — simple, repetitive and loved by toddlers.) - Monkey Puzzle by Julia Donaldson
(A rhyming adventure where a little monkey looks for his mum — charming and fun.) - Wild Animals (Campbell First Explorers series) by Jenny Wren
(A sturdy board book with tabs to push, pull and slide — introducing little ones to wild animals in a fun, hands-on way.)
The Don’t Tickle… books are a lovely series that all follow the same fun, interactive format. Each book invites young children to tickle different animals and hear the sounds they make, bringing the characters to life through touch and sound. With lively illustrations, gentle textures, and playful noises, these books are perfect for babies and toddlers, offering a delightful first sensory experience with books.
- Don’t Tickle the Monkey by Sam Taplin
(A delightful interactive book with textures and sounds — little ones will love the noisy surprises!) - Don’t Tickle the Tiger by Sam Taplin
(Another fun addition to the Don’t Tickle series — touch, giggle, and listen.) - Don’t Tickle the Lion! by Sam Taplin ( A fun, touchy-feely sound book where children are invited to tickle different animals, and each touch triggers a noise.)
- Don’t Tickle the Elephant by Sam Taplin
(More textured fun with adorable animal sounds ) - Don’t Tickle the Hippo! by Sam Taplin (Children can tickle a hippo and hear funny sounds from various animals.)
For Early Readers (5–7 Years)
- The Lion Inside by Rachel Bright
(A wonderful story about a little mouse who finds his inner courage — brilliant for boosting confidence.) - Oi! Get Off Our Train by John Burningham
(A charming environmental story featuring endangered animals hitching a ride on a boy’s dream-train.)
Middle Grade (8–12 Years)
- The White Giraffe series by Lauren St. John
(Adventure and wildlife conservation set in Africa — a brilliant, atmospheric series.) - The Last Bear by Hannah Gold
(A beautiful story about friendship, bravery, and climate change — unforgettable.) - Finding Bear by Hannah Gold
(A heartfelt sequel to The Last Bear — equally moving and powerful.) - Pax by Sara Pennypacker
(A deeply emotional novel about a boy and his pet fox, set against the backdrop of war.) - Sky Hawk by Gill Lewis
(A lyrical story about two children protecting an endangered bird in Scotland — nature and friendship.) - The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
(Inspired by a true story of a gorilla kept in captivity — incredibly touching.)
Non-Fiction / Fact Books
- National Geographic Kids: Wild Animal Atlas
(Bright photos and facts about wild animals around the world — perfect for curious young minds.) - Born Free: The Full Story by Joy Adamson (adapted for younger readers)
(The classic story of Elsa the lioness — a true-life conservation tale.) - DK Eyewitness: Animal
(Packed with detailed information and stunning photography — ideal for children who love facts.)
Sticker / Activity Books
- National Geographic Kids: Wild Animal Sticker Activity Book
(Fun puzzles, facts, and loads of stickers — always popular with animal lovers.) - Usborne Little First Stickers: Wild Animals by Kirsteen Robson
(A gentle, creative sticker book for ages 3–6.)
From playful jungle adventures to moving stories about endangered species, wild animal books open up a world of wonder and learning for children of all ages. Whether your little one loves lift-the-flap books, colourful animal facts, or heartwarming animal friendships, there’s something here to spark their imagination.
If you and your child have a favourite wild animal story, I’d love to hear about it — feel free to share it in the comments below!
Looking for more themed book list suggestions? Find one here: