When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked If I Ran the Zoo as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I think I was born rhyming, and it was all my dad’s fault. He could turn anything into a rhyme, which is probably why I’ve always championed Dr. Seuss. Add in animals, like this book, and you’ve got one of my favorite children’s books.

Parents and teachers who have read the book out loud can’t help but be caught up in the joyful rhythm and inventive rhyme. I love the flights of imagination and wild, crazy animals in this delightful zoo. Little listeners smile all the way through, and when the book ends, their imaginations will continue to soar.

From Dandi's list on rhyming books for animal-loving kids.

If you love If I Ran the Zoo...

Ad

Book cover of Parlor Poetry

Parlor Poetry by Lori Alden Holuta,

An illustrated A-to-Z (plus an ampersand) poetry collection celebrating Victorian life. It's a lighthearted, illustrated journey through the unforgettable Victorian era.

From Ada Lovelace’s creation of the first algorithm to the gasp-inducing moving images of the Zoetrope, each poem and historical note invites you to relax with a cup of…

Want books like If I Ran the Zoo?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like If I Ran the Zoo.

Browse books like If I Ran the Zoo

Book cover of Beetle Bop
Book cover of Pajama Time!
Book cover of Who Knew? Under the Apple Tree

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,273

readers submitted
so far, will you?