Free Books for Ages 5 - 6: Early Reader, Beginner Chapter Books & First Grade
Thanks for downloading our free children’s books for ages 5 and 6. Monkey Pen ensures that children become confident and curious and grow into self-reliant readers when they explore reading.
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HIDE AND SEEK
Was it just another game of hide and seek? No. It was not. First she fell into a deep, dark hole in the ground and then they found a treasure. Did it end there? No! It did not. Read more about this thrilling adventure of Sally and friends in this free illustrated kids’ book. The fun never ends when Sally’s around!
Ginger The Giraffe
Read this warm tale of camaraderie and affection set in the wild and beautiful Savannah in our free illustrated kid's book. Ginger the giraffe uses her long neck to save the other animals from the blazing forest fire. Follow them in their jungle paths as they all meet with yet another adventure .
SUNNY MEADOWS WOODLAND SCHOOL
The class took a little train and went deep into the woods on their first school trip. But things didn’t go as planned and a whirlwind of adventure unfolds in this wonderful free bed time story book.
TOOTH FAIRY
A wonderful story that weaves its magic in the child’s imagination, even while imparting an invaluable lesson in oral health and hygiene. This is a story that the children will return to time and again for a fun bedtime read.
HAMMY THE HAMSTER
He’s got swag. He wears a tux. He’s a hipster hamster who likes to live free. Join Hammy in his South American home as you read this free story book for kids on your next read aloud day.
THE CASE OF THE MISSING SMILE
Detective Peterson is trying to find where Sally Sue lost her beautiful smile. And she finds it..right in her heart, hidden from sight. Read this imaginative story of a little girl and how she learnt to smile again in this great free children’s fairy story.
HOMEWORK - YUCK!
Jamal made a case at the next open house and it mattered much. Download this free children’s book to read about how he chose to stand his ground and took courage to validate his actions. A little bit of honesty and a little bit of courage had gone a long way in boosting Jamal’s belief in himself. Read more in this free children’s real aloud and be truly inspired.
CAPTAIN FANTASTIC
Dr. Zob’s evil plans had failed once again, thanks to his wonder dog, Winston. They were just were they had to be, with Princess Aura at her birthday party. Read on to find out why Winston deserves a big cuddle and a juicy big bone. A big ‘Woof!’ to this wonderful free children’s story book.

DYLAN THE DRAGON
In this classic tale, Dylan learns to make friends despite obstacles. And when the happily ever after arrives, both the dragon and the reader have learnt a thing or two about relationships.

JESSIE THE RABBIT
She sneaked into the rabbit hole at the slightest inkling of danger. She always wore an air of caution. She was the lily-livered bunny of the jungle, so they thought. Until one day a fire broke out and the tables were turned. The forest had found a braveheart to love. There’s more of this captivating story in this free children’s story book online. Enjoy!

DO YOU WONDER WHY BUGS ARE GOOD?
Those little beauties have inspired so many stories. But where oh where did they get their name from? Why are they called the ladybugs? A tale that tells us emphatically that everything on earth has a purpose to serve. A free children’s book read aloud that is an absolute treat .

A TRICK TRIKE
Little Ross was sad. He didn’t have a nice new tricycle like all the other children. All he had was an old hand-me-down trike. After sulking he decided to do something about it and made a “trick trike” that was the envy of the neighborhood.

KROAKER, THE BULLFROG
If only those fishes had listened to Kroaker, if only they were a little wiser than brave.Let this good moral book for children be part of your next read aloud day and enjoy their attention in full.

MIX IT UP
Sally was thoroughly bored on this snowy day until she decided to step out and beat the cold. And she returned to the smell of her favorite hot cocoa wafting in the air. A perfect day! Read more about it in this free children’s stories online.

UP IN THE AIR
Flight is fascinating especially if you ‘re a child. Balloons, birds, rockets, butterflies..the list goes on. Read this wonderful free children’s book about a little boy’s love for all things that fly. It will leave you wishing for a pair of wings for sure.

HEY MOM, WHAT IS DIVERSITY?
Sally learns how our differences makes the world a happier places to live. If not for them, the world would be a terribly boring place to be. A thoughtful and witty story encouraging us to open our eyes and embrace the diversity around us, complete with fun illustrations in this free children’s bed time story.

BUBBLE FUN
When the last bubble popped, he was gone but a piece of paper lay on the ground.On it was written …
The wondrous and delicate world of bubbles, crafted with unchained imagination. Read on this to immerse yourself in this free story book for kids with pictures.

HECTOR THE HERMIT CRAB
When Jimmy and Tammy bring home an unusual pet, they thought all was fine. But then it struck them that their pet wasn’t happy at all. Find out what they did next in this wonderful tale of empathy and compassion. Read this free children’s book about Hector the hermit crab and how he made it back to the ocean from the aquarium, thanks to two fine young gentlemen.

DO YOU WONDER ABOUT RAIN, SNOW, SLEET AND HAIL?
“What’s to wonder about water?”, you might ask. Professor Ture will tell you why. Filled with compelling illustrations, this free children’s book takes a dive into a whirlpool of knowledge about the ubiquitous water that we often take for granted.

I FOUND A FROG
Something magical was happening in the fish bowl and he wasn’t quite ready for what lay in store. Read this captivating free illustrated book for kids that encourages them to explore and be awed by the many wonders of nature.

ARE WE THERE YET?
Looking for a Free Bedtime story books? Jim and Jen are going to the zoo and the drive never seems to end. EVER!
They just made a song for the road and the tune is growing on mom and dad.Let’s tap our feet and sing along..

DRAGONS
Dragons come in many shapes and sizes and speak different tongues. Some are mean, some are kind, some have legs while some don’t. No matter what they all have one thing in common..they grab eyes wherever they go. Join our free children’s book giveaway to read more about these wonderful creatures.

THE HIKE
Mandy and grandpa went on a hike . But it was more than that. Together they explored the woods, learnt to be at peace with nature and talked their hearts out about things that mattered. It was a special bond between them and you’ve got to read this great free illustrated children’s book to experience it. Happy Exploring!!

PIRATES COVE
Sandy chances upon an old treasure map and as the events roll out one after another, he becomes richer both by pennies and by thoughts. Here’s a treasure hunt to embark upon in this free children’s storybook. Sail Away Captain! The seven seas are yours.

THE WAY OF THE WOODS
Shh! Did you hear that? The jungle’s saying a story and you cannot afford to miss it. A colorful narrative set in the woods..camouflaged as a free children’s dog story.
Happy Reading!

BULLY BILL
He thought he was the Lord of the Farm.
He thought he was Boss. But his vanity was short lived and soon he learnt a lesson he’ll never forget.
Follow this funny and thoughtful story of a certain farm we chanced upon in this free bedtime storybook.

TERRANCE TURTLE'S NEW HOME
Two swans and a turtle went flying and fell into trouble but as they say, all’s well that ends well. So it did. But why did a turtle take to the skies? Find out more in this free illustrated book for children available for download.

GABBY ABBY
Little Abigail had a head full of questions and she took all her time asking them aloud. Then came a math test and things got a little out of hand but hey! This is Abigail. It all ended well for her and there was no end to her questions. A great preschool free book that inspires a love for numbers in little ones.

DO YOU WONDER HOW SNAKES SLITHER?
There is a chatty snake in the garden and its on a monologue. Would you stop and listen or would you rather run? But before you decide, know this for sure..that this snake is no ordinary, he is quite the charmer. Download our free children’s book to read more about Slither the Snake .

MARTY MONGOOSE
Marty went a step ahead to solve a problem but before he knew it had backfired. His plan lay in tatters. Read this free illustrated children’s book of a mongoose and his very different neighbors who lived by the river in a rain forest.

BUZZ THE BUZZARD
There’s no place like home. (and a mug of hot chocolate on a warm cozy bed and so many other tiny big things)
Hear it from Buzz and you’ll know what it really means. But hold On! You might want to read this great free illustrated story book in the comfort of your bed.

DO YOU WONDER HOW THE LADYBUG GOT ITS NAME?
Those little beauties have inspired so many stories. But where oh where did they get their name from? Why are they called the ladybugs? A tale that tells us emphatically that everything on earth has a purpose to serve. A free children’s book read aloud that is an absolute treat.

THE NAUGHTY MONKEY
Baba was as naughty as naughty could get. But when confronted by Sophie and Ashley he mellows down. And even has a banana split with them. Here’s a great free children’s story with a moral available for download.

THERE IS A MOUSE IN THE HOUSE
Gretchen loves to write . Find out how she perseveres and stays rooted to that to eventually find success. An inspiring free children’s story that encourages young writers to pursue their craft without giving up.

MY FIRST PET
With a pet comes big responsibilities and little Allie learnt it early. Read about how she genuinely cared for hers in this sweet preschool story book.

THE AMAZING INVISIBLE TIGER
Read this free bed time story to know how Sophie and friends befriended an angry and invisible tiger. Enjoy!

THE FLOWER GARDEN
Twins Rose and Violet have a birthday present unlike any other. Read this colorful and engaging good moral book for children for free

STOP AND GO
A great free children’s book with brilliant illustrations to help those little feet tread the road with caution. Here’s a lesson to be spared by none.

THE HOMELESS MONKEY
Springs, the nomadic monkey was travelling the world on a limited budget and a backpack. That’s all you need for an adventure and that’s exactly what came around. Walk and talk with Springs as you read this free preschool book.

SAMATHA, THE GIRL SCIENTIST
Curious Samantha enjoys asking questions and trying to find their answers. Download this great free children’s illustrated book and make science fun with Samantha.

SAMUEL, THE BOY SCIENTIST
Read this great free illustrated children’s book for a fun chemistry lesson with Samuel. He makes it look colorful, exciting and easy and that’s exactly how science should be.

UP AND DOWN AND ALL AROUND
Freddie went to town and there was plenty to see. All he had to do was look up and look down and look all around. As easy as it may seem, Freddie met with a few highs and lows on his day out. Read more in this free children’s good moral book available for download.

THE LUNKER
Let’s go fishing and a rhyming in this free illustrated children’s book. Monday through Saturday was dad’s to take but come Sunday, the lad caught a lunker. And boy! Wasn’t he absolutely delighted?

MY NEW MATH TRICK
This book is intended for any youngster (or maybe adult) who wants to overcome the challenge of the basic Times 9 Table or wants to be able to multiply two-digit numbers by 11 in their head. Yes, it takes a little practice but there are a couple of tricks to make it easier. Now, in 5 seconds, without the use of a calculator, or pencil and paper, what does 11 times 98 equal? The trick, using simple addition, is in this book.

CLARICE THE CAT
Clarice The Cat is a cute story of love and tolerance, from the cat’s perspective.
It’s cute, entertaining, and makes for a great bedtime story.

DO YOU WONDER WHERE BUTTERFLIES COME FROM
The magic of nature unfolds in this charming tale of a butterfly’s transformation. From egg to fluttering beauty, lyrical verses capture each stage, reminding us that as the butterfly grows, so do we. A delightful read for curious children, inviting them to wonder, “Where do butterflies come from?” The answer awaits within these pages.

MARK BECOMES A MAGICIAN
“Mark Becomes a Magician” follows a young boy whose birthday takes an unexpected turn when a magic feather chooses him to perform a stunning card trick on stage. Packed with mystery, excitement, and a real trick kids can try, this magical story keeps young readers wondering what will happen next.

ME, MY DAD, AND TRUCKS
Luke, a curious seven-year-old, embarks on a thrilling road trip with his truck driver dad, learning about various truck life, from mini trucks to giant rigs, creating an unforgettable adventure for both Luke and young readers.

THE SUPERHERO SECRET
Justin, a dreamy boy, struggles with healthy food and sweets. After a conversation with his mom, he dreams of meeting his favorite superhero, Crashie. He learns his powers and becomes his sidekick in a fight against a villainous robot. Through healthy food, Justin defeats evil and becomes strong like a superhero, changing his life and transforming his life.

THE LITTLE WET BUNNY RABBIT
Sophie, Josh, and Tom are just three ordinary friends on an ordinary walk home from school—until they hear a mysterious cry for help from the pond. What they find will lead them on an unexpected rescue mission that will change their day in a big way! But can they save the little voice before it’s too late?

THE ELEGANT ELEPHANT
Sophie, Josh, and Tom are off on a magical adventure with their invisible tiger friend, Lexa! But when they meet Bella, the elegant elephant with a mysterious problem, their journey takes an unexpected turn. Can the friends solve Bella's banana peel dilemma before things get out of hand?

WHERE IS MY HONEY
Baba the Monkey and Bella the Elephant are about to discover a sticky situation—Bella’s precious honey has mysteriously vanished! As they search for answers, they stumble upon a honey-loving culprit. Can they solve this sweet dilemma, or will Bella's honey supply be lost forever? Find out in this delightful tale filled with friendship, forgiveness, and a little bit of bear trouble!

THE MISSING CAKE
Baba the Monkey and Jojo the Bear are on a simple mission: deliver a birthday cake to their friend, Lexa the Tiger. But when their hunger gets the better of them, things take a mischievous turn! Can they resist temptation, or will Bella discover their sweet secret? One thing’s for sure—there’s more than just cake at stake!

THE SCARY STORM
Lexa the Tiger is on a mission to deliver her birthday cake when a fierce storm threatens to ruin everything! As the wind howls and the rain pours, Lexa finds herself trapped in a cave with her friends. Can they escape before the storm gets worse, or will Lexa’s cake—and her birthday—be in danger?

A BIG BIRTHDAY PARTY
It’s Lexa the Tiger’s big birthday, and she’s ready for the best party ever! With her friends arriving, balloons ready, and cake on the table, everything seems perfect—until some unexpected guests show up in the most surprising way. Will Lexa’s party go off without a hitch, or will her naughty friends turn it into a hilarious mess?

THE BIG HIKE
Lexa the Tiger and her friends are setting off on an exciting hike through the forest, packed with yummy snacks and a special surprise waiting for them! Sophie has a fantastic plan to unveil a magical spot and share all its amazing wonders.

THE BIKE RACE
A fun day at the waterfall takes an exciting turn when Tom suggests a thrilling bicycle race! With all their friends lined up and ready to go, it’s bound to be an action-packed race full of surprises. But who will cross the finish line first, and what’s the sweet reward awaiting them at the end?

HOP A LONG
Aabhas’s life changed forever after a tragic accident, leaving him in a wheelchair and far from his home in India. Now living with his grandparents in New Jersey, he must learn to adapt to his new life. When Aabhas meets Hop-A-Long, a one-legged goose who thrives despite his challenges, he begins to discover hope, strength, and the meaning of resilience. Will Aabhas find his own way to soar, just like his feathered friend?

THE LOST TREASURE
Join a group of campers as they learn new skills, have fun, and respect nature. They set up camp, go on a scavenger hunt, and fish for dinner. This adventure reminds readers that working together and respecting nature can lead to unforgettable memories.

MY STARRY STARRY NIGHT
My Starry Starry Night is a poetic and heartwarming tale that explores the world of warmth, love, and peace. It reflects on the comfort found in love and the magic of the night sky, offering readers a gentle reminder of the beauty of simple moments.

RIDDLE ME THIS
Prepare to twist your brain and tickle your funny bone with Riddle Me This...! This playful collection of riddles and clever wordplay will have readers scratching their heads, laughing out loud, and eager to solve each puzzle. From tricky cups to animals only rabbits can have, this fun-filled riddle book is perfect for curious minds who love a challenge and a giggle.

SCHOOL OF DIVERSITY
At Blaire’s preschool, every day is a new adventure in diversity! From the colorful clothes her friends wear to the delicious foods they eat, School of Diversity is a joyful celebration of different cultures, languages, and traditions. Blaire and her friends show that no matter where they’re from or how they look, what truly matters is the fun they have and the love they share.

THE VENDING MACHINE
What would you do with a big wallet full of cash? In The Vending Machine, Peter, Lily, and Suki each face this exciting decision. Peter splurges on gadgets, Lily saves for the future, and Suki makes a choice that everyone laughs at—until time reveals whose decision was the wisest. This inspiring tale of choices, lessons, and unexpected success shows that sometimes the best investments are the ones others don't understand at first.

CAREFUL CAMEL
Carl the camel loves helping everyone, but sometimes he forgets to take care of himself. When doing too much leaves him worn out, Carl learns an important lesson: you can’t pour from an empty cup. A gentle and heartwarming story about kindness, balance, and remembering that self-care matters too.

THE VIBRANT VEGETABLE PATCH
Charlie hates vegetables—he refuses to touch them! But when he visits his grandparents’ magical garden, something amazing happens: the vegetables begin to talk. From carrots to cabbages, each one shares its secret powers for keeping the body strong and healthy. Will Charlie finally change his mind? A fun, colourful story that makes veggies come alive!

FRANKIE THE FISH
Frankie the Fish" is a delightful tale about a child who turns an ordinary pet fish into something special using love, creativity, and a lot of patience. The story shows how you can train a fish and the amazing friendship that can grow from it.

MY FAVOURITE PET
Do you have a favorite pet? In “My Favorite Pet”, a fun and imaginative journey unfolds as one child introduces an array of unique animals—from a snake named Stretch to a chatty bird and a playful lizard. Each pet has its own charm, but the question remains: which one is the true favorite? Join the adventure and discover the joy of having a special pet to love.

THE LITTLE BIRD WHO GOT A HOME
When Rohit rescues a charming yellow bird named Tweety, he uncovers something remarkable—Tweety possesses the ability to speak! From participating in talent shows with captivating songs to cleverly evading a playful cat, Tweety's experiences offer delightful surprises at every turn. What secrets underpin Tweety's extraordinary vocabulary? Explore this inspiring narrative of friendship, courage, and unforeseen abilities.

WISHFUL THINKING
Jimmy thought a walk in the woods would be an adventure—until he got lost. When he stumbles upon a magical rock that grants wishes, everything changes. But some wishes come with unexpected consequences. What will Jimmy wish for next? Discover the enchantment, risk, and a lesson in this thrilling tale of wishes gone wrong.

I CAN DO IT
On the island of Mahnstrongg, only the bravest warrior could capture the legendary Blue Stallion and become General of the Army. While the men failed, a young girl named Ayecann defied the odds with wisdom and courage. In this captivating tale of strength and perseverance, discover how Ayecann shattered tradition and became a legend in her own right.

JOHN BUILDS A BUSINESS
Young John starts a lemonade stand to support his family with the help of three siblings. He learns essential business skills, turning his small venture into a success. This inspiring tale highlights the power of teamwork, knowledge, and determination.

Dr. DAWN AND SOME HELPFUL HINTS
Meet Doctor Dawn, a friendly guide full of simple yet effective health tips for kids. From handling minor cuts to travel sickness, Doctor Dawn’s cheerful advice helps little ones stay calm and healthy, offering practical solutions in a fun, easy-to-understand way.

LEARNING TO FORGIVE
When the beloved principal of Ladders of Learning School retires, Ms. Patty steps in to lead the school through an unexpected challenge—a daring robbery during their biggest fundraiser. But instead of seeking revenge, she teaches a powerful lesson in forgiveness, transforming a criminal’s life forever.

FREDDY FISH
Join Freddy Fish as he guides young readers through the exciting steps of setting up their first aquarium! With easy tips and fun advice, Freddy teaches how to care for pet fish and create a happy, healthy home for them. A delightful introduction to responsible pet ownership.

THE POSITIVE PENGUIN
In The Positive Penguin, readers accompany Scout, a brave penguin chick, who embarks on a heartwarming journey to find her family after being swept away in a storm. Along the way, she learns valuable affirmations from new friends, reminding her that she is brave, strong, smart, unique, and powerful. This inspiring tale of resilience and self-belief will leave readers cheering for Scout as she proves the power of positivity.

GIANT WONDERS
Join Eliza on a magical boat trip where she discovers the surprising importance of whales and their role in saving the planet. From glistening seas to a lesson in ocean conservation, Giant Wonders is a captivating story that reminds us that even the smallest actions can make a big difference. Will Eliza’s newfound knowledge inspire you to help protect the Earth too?

OUR ABILITIES
At this special nursery, everyone shines in their own way, from Ryan’s speedy wheels to Mariza’s imaginative stories in sign language. “Our Ability” is a heartwarming tale that celebrates diversity, showing how each child’s unique abilities create a beautiful community. Join the fun and discover the magic of kindness and inclusion.

MAISIE MANNERS
Meet Maisie Manners, the kindest girl in town, known for teaching everyone the power of politeness. When Naughty Nathan's rude behavior leaves him without friends, Maisie steps in to show him the magic of using manners. Will Nathan learn the value of kindness and turn his frown upside down?

THE YES DAY
Ellis is thrilled when his mum promises him a "Yes Day" — a day where she says yes to everything he wants! From pancakes to toy store adventures, it seems like a dream come true. But when Ellis notices something more important than all the toys in the world, he learns a heartwarming lesson about what truly matters.

KITCHEN CLEAN-UP
Join Noah on a magical kitchen adventure where everyday items come to life with a song and a lesson! After dinner, Noah learns that food waste isn't just something to toss away—it's an opportunity to help the earth in fun, creative ways. With the kitchen helpers guiding him, Noah discovers how to compost, donate, and recycle his leftovers to make a real difference.

THE FARM FESTIVAL
Get ready to count down at the Farm Festival, where animals dance, twirl, and tumble in the most colorful costumes you’ve ever seen! From 10 pigs with stylish hats to 1 sleepy farmer, this fun-filled, rhyming adventure will have little ones laughing and learning their numbers as they enjoy the chaos on the farm

CARBOOT KARMA
Aiden spots the perfect pair of trainers in a shop window, but there’s just one problem—he can’t afford them. Determined to make them his, Aiden sets off on an adventure to earn his own money, discovering a creative way to help others along the way. But will his hard work and kindness be enough to get the shoes he dreams of?

HEALTHY FRIENDSHIPS
Clair seems to have everything—a big group of friends, endless fun, and lots of excitement. But when life gets tough, Clair realises that not all her friends are there for her when she needs them most. Determined to find real friendship, Clair decides to set new boundaries and discover who her true friends really are.

CARLA CARROTS AND THE MISSING RABBIT
Carla loves carrots—so much so that her classmates call her "Carla Carrots!" But when the class rabbit, Mr. Nibbles, goes missing, Carla’s love for her favorite snack might just save the day. With a trail of carrots and her super carrot-powered eyesight, Carla sets out to find the lost bunny. Along the way, she learns that being herself is always the coolest thing of all!

CHOC MOCK CHOCOLATE FACTORY
In the heart of London, Choc Mock runs a magical chocolate factory like no other. When a special request for a new candy leads him to a charming witch in the woods, a delicious discovery is made—one that could change the world of sweets forever. But when a rival candy maker proposes a daring competition, will Choc Mock’s Relaxation Candy be enough to win the day?

A HOUSE JUST FOR US
Mr. and Mrs. Elephant are on a journey to find the perfect home for their new baby. From rabbit holes to tree nests and tortoise shells, every house seems just right—for someone else. Will the elephant family ever discover where they truly belong, or has their special home been waiting for them all along?

WHAT'S BEHIND THE DOOR
Susie couldn’t believe her eyes when she spotted a brand-new door in her kitchen. Everyone imagined something different could be inside, but when Susie opened it, she found the biggest surprise of all—a party filled with everything she loved! A joyful story about surprises, family, and celebrating together.

MINDFULNESS FOR THE FULL MINDS
Big feelings can sometimes feel too heavy to carry—anger, sadness, nerves, or worry. Mindfulness for the Full Minds is filled with simple, fun activities to help children breathe, focus, and find calm. From nature walks to yoga poses, colouring to kind affirmations, this gentle guide shows little ones how to turn stormy thoughts into peaceful skies.

THE MONEY TREE
Billy’s teacher gives the class a puzzling summer challenge: grow £5 into something more. With his sister Alice by his side, Billy sets out to find a way. From planning to selling lemonade, the siblings discover that hard work can make big dreams grow. Will their little idea be enough to surprise everyone—including Billy himself?

THE GOOD EGG
When Crystal’s class is given a surprising weekend project—caring for a fragile egg—things don’t go quite as planned. Cracked shells, missing eggs, and messy mishaps teach everyone a tough lesson in responsibility. But Crystal’s careful care changes everything, leading to an even bigger surprise for the whole class. Can you guess what their new pet will be?

GREEN MEANS GO
Julian is excited for a day at the park—but first, there are important lessons to learn about staying safe near roads. With his mother’s guidance and a catchy safety song, Julian discovers how to stop, look, and cross with care. A playful yet practical story that gives young readers the confidence to be safe wherever they go.

PRINCESS PAUL
When Paul arrives at school dressed as a princess for World Book Day, laughter quickly replaces cheers. But behind his costume lies a powerful story of love and bravery. With honesty and courage, Paul shows his classmates that being yourself is the greatest strength of all. A moving tale of acceptance and celebrating who you truly are.

MY BODY
Your body is special, and it belongs only to you. In this gentle rhyming book, children discover how to use their bodies kindly, respect others, and protect their own boundaries. With lessons in safety, self-confidence, and self-love, My Body empowers every child to understand that their body deserves respect—always.

THE FRIENDLY FARMER
On a stormy night, a kind old farmer lets his cow share the safety of the barn. But soon, there’s no room left for him! Will his generosity leave him out in the cold, or will they find a way to fit together? The Friendly Farmer is a warm and funny story about kindness, fairness, and friendship.

ANGRY ANT AND THE WISE WORM
Arnold Ant loses his temper at the smallest things—until his shouting reaches the calm and clever Wise Worm. With a little “medicine” and a lot of patience, Arnold learns a surprising lesson about controlling his anger. Can he really change his ways and bring peace back to the anthill? A thoughtful tale of emotions, calm, and self-discovery.
Free Books for Ages 5–6: Early Readers, Beginner Chapter Books, First Grade, Phonics Readers
Kids at the age of 5 and 6 place important turning points during their reading journey. During this stage, children transition from simple picture books to early reader books, phonic stories, and first chapter books. Whether your child is an early elementary reader or a first-grade learner, finding the best free books will improve his/her confidence and language skills and ignite an everlasting love for reading.
This blog suggests some of the best free books for 5-year-olds and 6-year-olds, encompassing first-grade reading books, phonics collections, and beginner chapter books, to read or download online.
📖 Books for 5-Year-Olds
When kids reach five, they live on bright, rhythmic stories that help identify sounds and repetitive words. The 5-year-olds’ best books can cover rhymes, easy-to-follow structures, and relatable pictures that attract young readers. These books go beyond just fun; they are a key foundation for knowledge.
- Parent-approved favorites: Many parents search for great books for 5-year-olds that have been used by other families for their children. Easy plots and interesting characters encourage repeated reading as a joyful practice.
- Books for 5-year-old boys and girls: Whether it’s thrilling storybooks for 5-year-old boys or calming bedtime tales for 5-year-old girls, parents usually look for gender-related stories.
- Reading practice books for 5-year-olds: Through repetition and common sight words, children develop fluency in language.
- Easy chapter books for ages 5–6: Children easily understand chapter concepts through simple chapter stories along with pictures.
- Recommended books for 5-year-olds: Some favorites picked by parents and teachers will help find the best classic stories suitable for this stage.
📖 Books for 6-Year-Olds
At 6 years, children transform into independent readers, managing longer phrases and detailed storylines. Storybooks for six-year-olds feature a little tough vocabulary to help their language while also bridging the distance between beginner readers and early chapter books.
- Best books for 6-year-olds: They are chosen keeping growing reading skills in mind while at the same time, making the stories enjoyable.
- Books for 6-year-old boys/girls: In the storybooks for 6-year-old boys and 6-year-old girls, themes such as comedy, animals, adventure, and friendship add appeal that will help kids pick stories aligning with their favorites.
- 6-year-olds' books: While looking for the best suitable storybooks online, parents always search this heading.
During this phase, letting children access a diversity of stories improves their confidence and inquisitiveness, transforming them into better readers.
📚 First Grade Books
In the first grade, children develop milestones. Through first grade reading books, they get to know about patterned stories that help in boosting vocabulary and comprehension. From guided reading, they transition to independent exploration.
- First grade books to read: They are ideal for everyday reading at home and in classrooms.
- First grade chapter books: Story titles guide kids transitioning from picture-heavy stories to textbooks.
- 1st grade reading level books: They are designed to meet academic standards, making sure that your child reads the right book that fits her ability.
- Reading list for 1st grade: Teacher-curated collections always contain timeless favorites and contemporary treasures, which eases finding the premium storybooks.
- 1st grade chapter books: They are excellent for enriching reading endurance while keeping stories realistic.
A perfect first-grade book plays a significant role in turning a child’s journey into a confident and independent one.
📘 Early Reader Books
Early reader books contain stories that connect the gap between picture books and chapter books. In early reader books, you can find simple phrases, repetitive words, and enjoyable themes to help kids in independent reading while also letting them enjoy exciting stories.
- Funny early reader books: Humor is a key motivating element that engages hesitant readers, making them turn the pages again and again.
- Animal early reader books: Stories containing pet animals and jungle creatures are always kids’ favorites, because children enjoy everyday creatures and fascinating wildlife.
- Science/STEM early readers: Through basic storytelling concepts, kids get to know the wonders of exploration, facts, and curiosity.
Early reader books are tailored to improve confidence. With neat fonts, a limited vocabulary set, and guiding images, they help children to read independently and enjoy having fun.
To encourage independent reading for kids, download free educational and learning books from the Monkey Pen website.
🔡 Phonics & Reading Development Books
Phonics and graded readers are more important for kids who practice decoding words and enhancing sight vocabulary skills. These organized learning tools help in sequential childhood reading development.
Phonics readers: They are tailored around particular sound-letter structures to help kids with learning phonics through text.
Sight word readers: Repetitive words help in easy recognition, which builds fluency.
Decodable readers: They provide sequential learning of phonics and slowly improve in complexity with respect to the child’s skill growth.
Leveled readers: Depending on a child’s ability to read, they maintain an appropriate balance between struggle and achievement.
Parents and teachers sticking with systematic learning approaches frequently depend on such categories. They offer a structured way to help kids when they advance from decoding words to proficient reading
📕 Beginner Chapter Books
At the age of 5 to 6, children step into their first “big kid” stories through beginner chapter books. They are commonly with images, divided into small chapters, and communicated in an easy language.
- Short chapter books for 1st graders: They are ideal for kids who are looking for independent reading without being stressful.
- Easy chapter books for 5–6:They provide the targeted level of challenge for early readers to feel confident.
Reading beginner chapter books improves imaginative thinking, perseverance, and personal accomplishment. They always turn into children’s most valued first reading adventures.
🌟 Making the Most of Free Reading Resources
The ages of 5 and 6 are magical stages in children’s reading journey. There are many free books available online, such as phonics readers, graded readers, beginner chapter books, and first-grade chapter books. With these, parents and teachers can seamlessly promote literacy growth at home and in classrooms.
Get these few simple tips before you start:
- Mix formats: Switch to different options like picture books, early readers, and short chapter books to maintain engagement in reading.
- Revisit favorites: Repetitive reading develops fluency and confidence, particularly with sight word readers and decodable readers.
- Encourage choice: Allow kids to make choices while reading storybooks, such as animals, space, humor, friendship, or adventures, to keep the fun alive.
- Establish a daily routine: To ensure that children’s language skills significantly improve, encourage them to read for at least ten to fifteen minutes each day.
If you are looking for resources that match your preschool kid’s skills or kindergarten level interests, Monkey Pen’s storybook collections for ages 3 to 4 would be an ideal choice.
✨ In Conclusion
Children at this age transition from appreciating rhythmic, repetitive stories at age 5 to learning longer phrases and captivating plots at age 6, which is when reading truly begins to take off. With the availability of early reader books, first grade reading books, and beginner chapter books online, it is possible to nurture a love for storybooks without any hurdles. Motivate kids to become independent readers with Monkey Pen’s storybooks for ages 7 and 8.
Whether your child is starting with phonics, loves funny early reader books, enjoys animal early readers, or is diving into first chapter books, this is the right time to explore and find the best storybook for your child.
Also let your child explore coloring by downloading printables from free color-by-number pages and dot-to-dot illustrations from the Monkey Pen website.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
1. Where do I get the best books for 5- to 6-year-olds?
Choose reliable sources such as Monkey Pen, which provides free, age-appropriate books.
2. Which books are best for 5- to 6-year-olds?
For 5- to 6-year-olds, curated collections like picture books, phonics readers, and beginner chapter books will be ideal.
3. How to download first-grade books for my child? Are they affordable?
Monkey Pen’s first-grade books are completely free, and you can easily download them from our website, titled with age categories.
4. Does Monkey Pen provide free books to download?
Yes, you can easily download Monkey Pen's children's books from our website at any time. They are completely free.
5. Can I print the books from Monkey Pen at home?
All our storybooks are readily available as downloadable PDFs to be used in classrooms and at home.
6. In what ways do these beginning chapter books aid in the development of young children?
These books are perfect for early reading because they introduce simple phrases, well-known words, and basic plots. Youngsters acquire language skills, recognize patterns easily, and comprehend them.
7. What type of themes do early reader books have?
The most commonly occurring themes in early reader books are animals, space, humor, friendship, and adventures.
8. Are there seasonal and holiday-themed books available from Monkey Pen?
Indeed, Monkey Pen provides collections of seasonal and holiday storybooks that are ideal for both educational and personal use.
9. Can I read these books before bed?
Of course! Our storybooks are ideal for bedtime rituals that promote restful sleep and optimism. They can also be used for classroom activities and quiet time reading.
