Good Books for 1 Year Olds

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  Press Here

  by Hervé Tullet

  A deceptively simple interactive book that invites kids to press, shake, and tap the pages as the story unfolds. Pure magic through minimalism.

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  Maisy's Bedtime

  by Lucy Cousins

  Bright, bold illustrations and simple routines make this Maisy book a toddler favorite. Predictable, comforting, and just the right length.

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  Officer Buckle and Gloria

  by Peggy Rathmann

  A police officer's boring safety speeches become popular when his dog Gloria secretly performs behind him. This Caldecott Medal winner celebrates teamwork with humor and heart.

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  Giraffes Can't Dance

  by Giles Andreae, Guy Parker-Rees

  Gerald the giraffe wants to dance, but everyone laughs—until he finds his rhythm. A feel-good story about individuality and self-expression.

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  The Carrot Seed

  by Ruth Krauss, Crockett Johnson

  A little boy plants a carrot seed and believes it will grow, despite everyone's doubts. This simple story celebrates faith, patience, and the magic of believing in possibilities.

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  The Napping House

  by Audrey Wood, Don Wood

  In a cozy house, everyone piles up for a nap—until something wakes them all. This cumulative tale is a dreamlike read for winding down.

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  Ten, Nine, Eight

  by Molly Bang

  A soothing countdown to bedtime, told through a loving father-daughter routine. This Caldecott Honor book is cozy and quiet.

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  Harold and the Purple Crayon

  by Crockett Johnson

  Armed with just a purple crayon, Harold draws himself into adventures and back home again. A timeless celebration of imagination and creative problem-solving.

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  Big Red Barn

  by Margaret Wise Brown, Felicia Bond

  A gentle, rhythmic journey through a day at the barn as all the animals settle down for the night. Peaceful and pastoral.

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  Baby Faces

  by Margaret Miller

  Big, clear photographs of real baby faces show common emotions. Babies love to look at other babies, and this book is a hit from birth.