This collection of book lists created by our staff can assist students with homework, help them find more books by their favorite authors, and aid parents in finding books for the youngest readers, among other things! We add new lists each month so returning readers can continue to find their next read! Find more reading recommendations for kids in our blog or enjoy storytime online.
Are you looking for MORE reading recommendations for kids? Your child’s new favorite book, handpicked for you! Hoosier Next Read is a personalized book recommendation service from The Indianapolis Public Library. Share your child’s reading preferences, and our Library staff will send you a custom list of 2–5 titles within 7 business days so you’ll always have their next great read ready. You can also visit us in person or online to get ideas for great reads for kids. For one-on-one help call or ask a Library staff member at any of our locations. You can also call, text, or email ask-a- librarian!
You can also get reading recommendations online from NoveList K-8 Plus or Book Connections. Read book reviews, see “read alike” lists, browse starred reviews, and more.
Halloween Storytime Online
Here are fun stories to help calm some typical Halloween fears….with laughing! Enjoy Halloween storytime online with talking, writing, reading, singing, playing…and laughing!
Spooky (and Not-So-Spooky) Picture Books
The evenings have a chill, and the leaves are changing! It’s almost Autumn and, with it, spooky season! This is the perfect time to pull on your favorite cozy PJs, whip up some hot chocolate, and cuddle up as a family to read some stories that might just give you a little shiver. Whether you’re reaching for an old favorite or trying out something new, reading together is a BOO-tiful way to spend a fall day!
Cozy Picture Books for Bedtime Snuggles
Charming picture books perfect for settling in for a cozy evening. Picked for stories that feel like a well-loved blankie and a cup of cocoa for the heart.
Stories of Modern Indigenous Life
Some people think that native culture is a thing of the past, but that could not be further from the truth! These books, some fiction and some nonfiction, explore the vibrancy and diversity of present-day culture across many different indigenous tribes and nations. Learn about things like family, food, and tradition and experience all the joy these indigenous authors and artists have put on the page!
Best Picture Books for Kids by and about American Indians
A guide to some of the best picture books by and about American Indians recommended by The American Indian Library Association, American Indians in Children’s Literature (AICL), or firstnations.org.
Los Libros Favoritos de Señora Flo
Señora Flo hace hora de cuentos, y estos son sus libros favoritos para leer a los niños.
Indigenous Picture Books
Indigenous picture books offer a wonderful way to introduce children to the diverse cultures, stories, and perspectives of Indigenous peoples. Many picture books feature Indigenous characters and themes, often highlighting traditions, family connections, and the importance of the natural world. Many of the books highlighted below are award-winners.
Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Picture Books
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Our staff share some of their favorite picture books from 2024 that they have seen – from beautiful to funny, we hope there is something for you and your littlest readers to enjoy.
Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Fiction for Kids
Some of our favorite new fiction titles published for kids. At the very bottom of the list, enjoy older bonus material: staff were also asked if they read an older title/not published in 2024 that they might also recommend.
Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Beginning and Early Readers for Kids
Staff sent in some of their favorite 2024 books that fall into our JZ and JE category. JZ are the books for young readers that are beginning to read on their own and typically these books have very controlled vocabulary and still a lot of pictures. (Think Piggie and Elephant; Bob books; Yasmin). JEs are books that introduce a longer narrative and sometimes chapters or vignettes; contain more content; characters that have depth and experiences. (Think Magic Treehouse or Bad Guy series)
Join Us for Storytime!
- Event: Reading Ready Time – Falling for Fall
- Date & Time: Wednesday, October 08, 12:00am
- Location: Online
- Description: Children 3-6 are invited to a virtual Library visit! Join us from home to sing along, listen to a story, see new places, and meet amazing people. In this week’s episode, Join the ever-smiling Professor Watermelon and his friends, Zeke and Zeus, for an interactive and silly storytime all about fall.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Storytime at Garfield Park
- Date & Time: Wednesday, October 08, 10:30am
- Location: Garfield Park Branch
- Description: Babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their parents/caregivers are invited for stories, songs, and movement activities.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Storytime at College Avenue – Toddler & Preschool
- Date & Time: Wednesday, October 08, 10:30am
- Location: College Avenue Branch
- Description: Children aged 3-5, and their families, are invited to a half-hour of stories, songs, and rhymes, followed by playtime, art, and social time with other families!
- No Registration Required.