Here is the collection of best of the best short stories for kids. We carefully put books on our lists for a better reading experience for our readers.
Sharing the magic of short stories with young ones brings immeasurable joy and nurtures their growing minds. Whether it’s a silly giggle-inducing tale, a heartening motivational yarn, a spine-tingling spooky story, or a soothing bedtime companion, children’s literature offers boundless delights suitable for every mood and moment. Indeed, giving the priceless gift of reading helps foster lifelong learners and imaginative thinkers.
Funny Short Stories for Kids
Really Stupid Stories for Really Smart Kids by Alan Katz
| Age | 8 – 12 years |
| Length | 176 pages |
| Reading Level | 3-7 Grade |
Your kid will laugh out loud with “Really Stupid Stories for Really Smart Kids”! This hilarious collection of 20 short stories features endless puns, bad jokes, and tall tales that are sure to tickle your kid’s funny bone. Watch as snowpeople fall from the sky, meet a boy who can only communicate through song, and more.
Fans of Rob Elliott and Jon Scieszka will love these outrageous stories filled with absurdity and wit. So grab a copy and get ready to chuckle, giggle, and guffaw – all while exercising those smart kid brains!
Funny Girl: Funniest Stories Ever for Kids by Betsy Bird
| Age | 8 – 11 years |
| Length | 224 pages |
| Reading Level | 3-7 Grade |
Laugh till your sides split with “Funny Girl,” an anthology of side-splitting stories, comics, and witty pieces by 25 of today’s funniest women writers for kids. Join Ursula Brown as she embarks on a disastrous road trip with Grandma, witness Lisa Brown’s little bro’s Tic-Tac nostril fiasco, or tag along with Carmen Agra Deedy’s mom’s bath time blunder.
Chuckle at Rita Williams-Garcia’s zany tale of fame-seeking besties and Deborah Underwood’s furry pair running a pet advice column.
Featuring award-winning and bestselling authors such as Cece Bell, Sophie Blackall, Libba Bray, Shannon Hale, and Raina Telgemeier – prepare to giggle, snort, or even shed some tears of joy. Funny Girl is not merely a compilation; it’s a celebration, a statement, a revolution declaring that girls are hilarious, and now it’s time for everyone to see it!
Never Let a Unicorn Wear a Tutu! by Diane Alber
| Age | 3 – 6 years |
| Length | 40 pages |
| Reading Level | 1-3 Grade |
Meet a curious little girl who stumbles upon a dazzling tutu, but holds back when she remembers her friend saying, “Never let a unicorn wear a tutu!” Uh-oh! What should she do now? Find out if her unicorn friend pulls off the look in this delightfully whimsical and entertaining short story for kids. When it comes to fashion statements, our young heroine discovers that sometimes breaking rules leads to unexpected surprises and lots of laughter!
Let your imagination run wild alongside this adorable duo, proving once again that friendship knows no bounds – especially in the magical land where unicorns reside. Dive into a captivating adventure brimming with humor, wonder, and life lessons, making it a must-read for any child seeking light-hearted amusement. Will the unicorn rock the tutu or become the laughingstock of the meadow? Only one way to find out!
Wiggly The Worm (Early Bird Reader Book series for kids)
| Age | 2 – 6 years |
| Length | 30 pages |
| Reading Level | 1-3 Grade |
Embark on five laugh-out-loud escapades with Wiggly Worm and their pals – Snarky Snail, Rattles Snake, and Munchy Mosquito – in this engaging chapter book for early and beginning readers. Illustrated with vibrant images, each relatable story follows the critter crew living in a lush backyard garden. One day, curiosity gets the better of them, leading to exciting explorations beyond their cozy haven.
Bonus content includes bonus activities designed exclusively for children to enjoy between chapters. With its easy-to-follow language and appealing visuals, this book serves as a terrific choice for shared reading experiences among families or classrooms. Give your young ones a taste of excitement, camaraderie, and laughter with Wiggly Worm & Friends – guaranteed to entertain both parents and children alike before drifting off to dreamland!
The Monster That Stole My Underwear by Kate Clary
| Age | 4 – 7 years |
| Length | 18 pages |
| Reading Level | 1-3 Grade |
Four- to eight-year-olds will chuckle through this chapter book about Adam, whose undies keep disappearing thanks to a mischievous blue, furry monster. Determined to catch the culprit, Adam hatches plans to stop the pilfering beast – but trapping a vanishing fiend proves tricky. Expect surprising twists in this humorous caper, teaching young minds valuable lessons about bravery and ingenuity.
My Monster Farts by Kate Clary
| Age | 5 – 8 years |
| Length | 11 pages |
| Reading Level | 1-2 Grade |
Kindergartners and first graders will relate to Zach’s struggles with his invisible flatulent pal, Lenny, in this charming chapter book. Fed up with taking blame for Lenny’s gastronomical misdeeds, Zach searches for solutions. Lighthearted and enjoyable, it’s another winner from author Kate Clary following the success of “THE MONSTER THAT STOLE MY UNDERWEAR” and “FARTICUS STINKAMUS”. Ideal for budding readers for hilarious escapades.
Motivational And Moral Short Stories and Books for Children
I’m So Glad You Were Born: Celebrating Who You Are by Ainsley Earhardt
| Age | Baby and Up |
| Length | 34 pages |
| Reading Level | 1-3 Grade |
New York Times bestseller Ainsley Earhardt shares heartfelt prose and jovial verse in “I’m So Glad You Were Born,” expressing gratitude for milestone moments and daily miracles. Parents and guardians will cherish gifting this touching tribute for various occasions, featuring warm illustrations by Kim Barnes. Embrace faith, love, and humor within its pages, becoming a beloved addition to your nightly rituals.
I’ve Loved You Since Forever by Hoda Kotb
| Age | Baby – 4 years |
| Length | 32 pages |
| Reading Level | Preschool – 3 Grade |
Experience tender affection between parent and child in New York Times #1 Bestseller “I’ve Loved You Since Forever.” Co-anchored by Hoda Kotb, this rhythmic ode to her adopted daughter Haley Joy warms hearts. Paired with Suzie Mason’s enchanting art, embrace the emotions conveyed throughout this touching narrative, making it an ideal present for expecting mothers or loved ones. Celebrate bonds formed across galaxies and seasons.
When I Talk to God, I Talk About You by Chrissy Metz and Bradley Collins
| Age | Baby – 4 years |
| Length | 32 pages |
| Reading Level | Preschool – 3 Grade |
Introducing “Talking To God About You”, a moving picture book by actress Chrissy Metz, sharing sentiments from animal parents discussing prayers for growth and development. Enriched with Lisa Fields’ breathtaking artwork, this soulful piece conveys deep affection and spiritual wisdom, complementing works like Matthew Paul Turner’s ‘When God Made You’. Share the power of communication and faith with your precious ones via this comforting treasure. Rejoice in its beauty for Easter or anytime.
Wherever You Go, I Want You to Know by Melissa B Kruger
| Age | 2 – 8 years |
| Length | 16 pages |
| Reading Level | 1 – 3 Grade |
Explore “Wherever You Go, I Want You to Know,” a beautifully illustrated, rhyming book encouraging children to love and follow Jesus. It highlights Christian parents’ ultimate wish for their kids, regardless of career paths. An essential reminder for parents to prioritize sharing Jesus’ teachings with their little ones, making it an ideal gift for birthdays, holidays, or milestones. Teaching eternal values wrapped in verses, engage with your kids in meaningful conversations.
Don’t Forget to Remember by Ellie Holcomb
| Age | 1 – 3 years |
| Length | 24 pages |
| Reading Level | 1 – 4 Grade |
In “Don’t forget to remember,” Ellie Holcomb crafts a melodious ode to nature’s gentle reminders of divine love surrounding us daily. Geared towards kids grappling with memory challenges, this uplifting narrative weaves inspiration and humor seamlessly, ensuring smiles accompany wholesome takeaways. Don’t miss out on this gem promoting mindfulness and appreciation for Earth’s treasures.
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| 1.) New Interesting Short Stories |
| 2.) 34 New Upcoming Short Stories In 2024 |
Scary Short stories for kids
Scary Stories To Give You Nightmares: Short Scary Stories for Kids by Kyle McMahon
| Age | 8 – 11 years |
| Length | 115 pages |
| Reading Level | 2 – 4 Grade |
Enter the realm of fright and fun in “Scary Stories To Give You Nightmares”—where ghostly bus rides, creepy farmers, and shadowy figures await. Young readers will shiver with anticipation as they dive into a series of shivery narratives. Campouts or slumber parties call for these chillingly humorous tales that blur fantasy lines. Keep watch for hidden giggles among the frights, adding layers to the pleasantly eerie ride. Curl up for a mix of macabre encounters and subtle grins, knowing some startled squeaks are part of the package.
Terrifying Tales to Tell at Night: 10 Scary Stories by Randy Broecker
| Age | 8 – 12 years |
| Length | 157 pages |
| Reading Level | 2 – 4 Grade |
Get ready for spooky fun with “Terrifying Tales to Tell at Night,” an illustrated horror anthology featuring famous authors like Neil Gaiman and Stephen King! This book is full of frightening stories about ghosts, monsters, and other eerie creatures. Meet a creature lurking in the shadows waiting to feast on those who aren’t careful, or say hello to a giant cat who loves eating teachers. And watch out for what might crawl down the chimney at Christmas! With chilling artwork by Randy Broecker, this book promises lots of laughs and scares.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories by Alvin Schwartz
| Age | 4 – 8 years |
| Length | 64 pages |
| Reading Level | 1 – 3 Grade |
A dark, dark room and other scary stories feature shivering skeletons, ghostly pirates, and chattering corpses, all guaranteed to give you goosebumps. Join us as we explore haunted graveyards and uncover terrifying secrets. But fear not – there are also plenty of giggles along the way. Whether you read it alone or with friends, share these thrilling stories in a pitch-black room for extra frights! Perfect for brave young readers of ages 4 – 8.
Scary Stories for Kids by Kara Aitken
| Age | 4 – 8 years |
| Length | 47 pages |
| Reading Level | 1 – 3 Grade |
Give the gift of screams this holiday season with “Scary Stories for Kids”! Filled with five bone-chilling tales and freaky illustrations, this book is perfect for sharing around the campfire or under the covers with a flashlight. From bloodthirsty zombies to heart-pounding ghost stories, this collection has something to delight every little horror fan. Plus, each tale delivers valuable life lessons, making it both exciting and educational. Don’t miss out on the chance to send shivers down their spine.
Campfire Stories For Kids: Spooky and Scary Tales to Tell in the Dark by The Cloud Kids Editorial
| Age | 7 – 12 years |
| Length | 75 pages |
| Reading Level | 1 – 4 |
Embark on an exhilarating journey with “Campfire Stories for Kids”! Explore mystical realms alongside Dahlia, Ethan, and Jude as they face hair-raising challenges and encounters. Visit enchanted lands, solve ancient puzzles, help lost spirits, and dodge mischievous tricksters. Along the way, discover the power of friendship, courage, and imagination. Each captivating story offers laughter, suspense, and wonder, perfect for keeping the whole family entertained during your next campfire gathering.
Beneath the Bed and Other Scary Stories by Max Brallier
| Age | 4 – 7 years |
| Length | 64 pages |
| Reading Level | 1-3 grade |
Experience the joy of reading while getting spooked with “Max Brallier’s Easy-to-Read Scary Stories” from Scholastic’s Acorn series! Geared towards developing readers, this collection boasts authentic chills and hilarious moments. Unearth hidden horrors beneath beds and hear mysterious sounds tapping at windows. Each gripping tale includes vibrant illustrations, encouraging a lifelong passion for literature. Keep the lights on and join fellow brave hearts for after-dark escapades.
The School is Alive by Jack Chabert
| Age | 6 – 8 years |
| Length | 100 pages |
| Reading Level | 1 – 3 Grade |
Join forces with Sam in “Eerie Elementary: The School is Alive” and brace yourself for a thrilling adventure! Part of Scholastic’s Branches series designed for growing readers, this engaging tale combines accessible language, intriguing themes, and witty humor.
When Sam becomes the school hall monitor, he faces unexpected terror as he uncovers the sinister secret of Eerie Elementary. Can Sam, Lucy, and Antonio save the day in time for the class play? Packed with charming illustrations, this exciting story encourages reading skills and endless entertainment.
The Haunted Library by Dori Hillestad Butler
| Age | 6 – 8 years |
| Length | 128 pages |
| Reading Level | 1 – 3 Grade |
Unravel mysteries with Kaz and Claire in “Kaz’s House of Haunts,” a thrilling new young chapter book series by Edgar Award winner Dori Hillestad Butler! Ghost boy Kaz loses his home and stumbles upon friendly human Claire, who can see him. Together, they investigate the spectral presence troubling Claire’s local library. Might this ghost belong to Kaz’s long-lost family? Chock-full of excitement and warmth, this captivating duo invites readers aged 6-9 to embrace friendships beyond the ordinary and experience the joys of solving paranormal puzzles.