Best Short Bedtime Stories of 2025: Top 5 Picks

Discover the magic of short bedtime stories with these five books, perfect for tucking your little ones into dreamland.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar coverGoodnight Moon coverWhere the Wild Things Are cover

Ah, bedtime! The time when kids magically turn hyperactive. As fellow parents, we know the struggle. That’s why we put together the best ‘short bedtime stories’ list. We dig through books that blend whimsy, engaging art, and simplicity to calm your little monsters before sleep. No spoilers here, but expect fantastical creatures, imaginative journeys, and classic characters. Because, let’s be real, we need these magical moments to wrap up the day on a peaceful note.

On this list:

5 The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

The Very Hungry Caterpillar cover

  • Genre: Children’s Literature
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1969
  • Pages: 32

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We picked this classic because the story is as concise and creative as a bedtime story should be. The colorful pictures, along with the charming tale of a caterpillar’s journey to becoming a butterfly, make it perfect for short bedtime stories. The little ones love counting the fruits the caterpillar munches through.

4 Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

Goodnight Moon cover

  • Genre: Children’s Literature
  • Formats: Board book, Hardcover, Kindle
  • Year released: 1947
  • Pages: 30

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This sweet little book finds its way on our list for its soothing rhymes and warm illustrations that prepare kids for bed. Its repetitive and calming nature makes it an ideal pick for short bedtime stories, and trust us, reading about a quiet old lady whispering ‘hush’ never gets old.

3 Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Where the Wild Things Are cover

  • Genre: Children’s Picture Book
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1963
  • Pages: 48

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Max’s wild adventure in his imagination promises to capture young minds just before they drift off to sleep. It’s placed high on our list for its ability to tell a fantastical story in a short span. Plus, parents enjoy a chance to make goofy monster sounds.

2 Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

Harold and the Purple Crayon cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1955
  • Pages: 64

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We love this book for its simplicity and imaginative plot, which makes it a favorite among short bedtime stories. With just a crayon and his imagination, Harold creates an entire world. Kids learn that creativity knows no bounds, even in brief nighttime tales.

1 The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson

The Gruffalo cover

  • Genre: Children’s Paperback
  • Formats: Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle
  • Year released: 1999
  • Pages: 32

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Ah, ‘The Gruffalo’. This gem wins our hearts and shines in the world of short bedtime stories because it delivers a clever story featuring a brainy mouse who outsmarts predators, all with clever rhymes. We enjoy reading this one aloud, using fun voices for the characters. It’s short enough to keep kids engaged while entertaining adults too. The smart story, paired with Axel Scheffler’s lively illustrations, makes it a delightful choice to end the day. Its perfect mix of suspense and humor keeps kids asking to read ‘just one more time’, which of course is code for ‘please never stop’.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!