Whether you're hunting for a great baby shower gift or you're an expecting mama who's eager to encourage your baby's bookwormish side, here are some books I think every baby ought to have.

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown. I wasn't familiar with this classic board book when I received it as a gift after my first child was born. And I wasn't impressed with the book after I read it. But for some reason every kid I've ever known loves this tale. Over time, I've come to appreciate it, too. The detail in the illustrations is wonderful, and tell a tale all their own.


Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt. This book allows little fingers to develop fine motor skills by lifting a piece of cloth to play peek-a-boo, put their finger through "mummy's ring," and more. Just plain fun.




Playtime Devotions by Christine Harder Tangvald and Tamara Schmitz. This is my favorite book to give as a baby shower gift. In it, you'll find all kinds of songs and rhymes to teach babies and toddlers about God and the Bible. It even includes simple scriptures to teach young children.


Baby Faces by DK Publishing. There are a lot of board books with baby faces in them, but I think this is the best. Babies and toddlers love looking at other babies, and this book helps teach kids words to describe their emotions, too. Sadly, it's not in print, so snatch it up if you see it.

Bible Stories for Tiny Tots by Kobus Sandenbuergh. It's tough to find a children's Bible that holds a toddler's attention, but this little board book is short, simple, and full of colorful illustrations. It really did the trick for both my kids.

Moo Baa La La La by Sandra Boynton. Teaching animal noises has never been more fun. Sandra Boynton has many popular books, but this one is the ultimate for babies and toddlers. It still makes my kindergartner laugh!

Little One's Bible Verses by Stephen Elkins. This sweet and gentle book introduces the smallest "readers" to scripture. As children get older, they can start memorizing these Bible verses, too.