Best Leaves Books for Storytime (Preschool, Kindergarten, First Grade)
Sep 25, 2026Looking for leaf books that really "fall" into your storytime rotation? Here are my favorites!
The Gold Leaf (2017)
By Kirsten Hall · Illustrated by Matthew Forsythe · Published by Enchanted Lion Books
Recommended ages: 4–8 years
A gold leaf appears in the forest, and every animal wants it more than anything. But in the struggle for it, the leaf is destroyed. Hall's text is simple and quiet, and the embossed gold leaf shines on every page. Works great as a read-aloud, with props, or with puppets.
The Leaf Thief (2021)
By Alice Hemming · Illustrated by Nicola Slater · Published by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Recommended ages: 3–8 years
Squirrel loves counting the leaves on his tree, and he is CERTAIN someone is stealing them. Funny, seasonal, and full of personality, this one works great as a read-aloud, with props, puppets, or parallel play. Squirrel is very dramatic, so give him your best indignant voice!
When the Leaf Blew In (2009)
By Steve Metzger · Illustrated by Kellie Lewis · Published by Cartwheel Books
Recommended ages: 2–8 years
One leaf blows into the barn and sets off a zany chain reaction on the farm. The cumulative structure makes it a natural for felt board or puppets. Kids will enjoy making the animal sounds!
Sneeze, Big Bear, Sneeze! (2011)
By Maureen Wright · Illustrated by Will Hillenbrand · Published by Marshall Cavendish Children
Recommended ages: 0–8 years
Big Bear thinks his sneezes are making the leaves and apples fall and sending the geese away, until the wind finally sets him straight. A silly, highly engaging read-aloud with a built-in invitation for the whole group to sneeze along. Great for cause and effect, talking about what really happens in fall, characterization, and rhyming.
The Leaves on the Trees (2011)
By Thom Wiley · Illustrated by Andrew Day · Published by Cartwheel Books
Recommended ages: 0–8 years
Sung to the tune of The Wheels on the Bus, this rhyming, singable book follows a group of children through the sights, sounds, and smells of fall. Because the tune is already familiar, groups can sing along from the very first page.
Leaves (2010)
By David Ezra Stein · Published by Nancy Paulsen Books
Recommended ages: 0–5 years
It's a little bear's first autumn, and he's surprised when the leaves start falling off the trees, so he tries to put them back. Simple and sweet, this one works great as a read-aloud, with props, felt, or with puppets. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.
