Here are 100 books that Daddy Kisses fans have personally recommended if you like Daddy Kisses. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of How Full Is Your Bucket? For Kids

Jack Payton Author Of Billy Balloon

From my list on children’s stories you wish you had written.

Why am I passionate about this?

I wrote Billy Balloon in fourth grade for a writing exercise. I remember the teacher reading it to the whole class. I was filled with pride. Then through the years I’d revisit the story and think about getting it published. Many years later, with the support and encouragement from my family, I finally decided to go through with it. We then went from wanting to publish one book to building a brand similar to Curious George and Thomas the Train. We had such a great experience and fun time we also decided to share the adventure with others. We invite readers to submit ideas for other books in the Billy Balloon series through our website

Jack's book list on children’s stories you wish you had written

Jack Payton Why Jack loves this book

A co-worker had introduced me to this book when I mentioned my daughter was having trouble in school.

It’s a wonderful book that made a lasting impression. I would reference the book whenever she would get down or needed extra motivation.

My daughter even wrote about the lessons she learned from How Full Is Your Bucket in her college entrance essay.

By Mary Reckmeyer , Tom Rath , Maurie J. Manning (illustrator)

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked How Full Is Your Bucket? For Kids as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Every moment matters.
Each of us has an invisible bucket. When our bucket is full, we feel great. When it's empty, we feel awful. Yet most children (and many adults) don't realize the importance of having a full bucket throughout the day.
In How Full Is Your Bucket? For Kids, Felix begins to see how every interaction in a day either fills or empties his bucket. Felix then realizes that everything he says or does to other people fills or empties their buckets as well.
Follow along with Felix as he learns how easy it can be to fill the…


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Book cover of Aggressor

Aggressor by FX Holden,

It is April 1st, 2038. Day 60 of China's blockade of the rebel island of Taiwan.

The US government has agreed to provide Taiwan with a weapons system so advanced that it can disrupt the balance of power in the region. But what pilot would be crazy enough to run…

Book cover of Curious George

Jack Payton Author Of Billy Balloon

From my list on children’s stories you wish you had written.

Why am I passionate about this?

I wrote Billy Balloon in fourth grade for a writing exercise. I remember the teacher reading it to the whole class. I was filled with pride. Then through the years I’d revisit the story and think about getting it published. Many years later, with the support and encouragement from my family, I finally decided to go through with it. We then went from wanting to publish one book to building a brand similar to Curious George and Thomas the Train. We had such a great experience and fun time we also decided to share the adventure with others. We invite readers to submit ideas for other books in the Billy Balloon series through our website

Jack's book list on children’s stories you wish you had written

Jack Payton Why Jack loves this book

The fun thing about George was reading all the different books with my kids, and discovering what he was up to next.

He is curious about everything around him, and isn’t always able to express himself. Very much like little kids. George’s childlike innocence and sense of adventure is contagious.

I was also in awe of the author's productivity. There were so many different stories! It was an inspiration to my book series, to invite readers to help co-author additional books.

By H. A. Rey ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Curious George as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Curious little ones will love to cuddle up at bedtime with this padded story collection with sturdy pages. The perfect ending to a long day of play!

Includes six stories:
Curious George: Are You Curious
Curious George and the Firefighters
Curious George's Day at the Farm
Curious George Goes to a Bookstore
Curious George Loves to Ride
Good Night, Curious George


Book cover of Thomas the Tank Engine's Hidden Surprises

Jack Payton Author Of Billy Balloon

From my list on children’s stories you wish you had written.

Why am I passionate about this?

I wrote Billy Balloon in fourth grade for a writing exercise. I remember the teacher reading it to the whole class. I was filled with pride. Then through the years I’d revisit the story and think about getting it published. Many years later, with the support and encouragement from my family, I finally decided to go through with it. We then went from wanting to publish one book to building a brand similar to Curious George and Thomas the Train. We had such a great experience and fun time we also decided to share the adventure with others. We invite readers to submit ideas for other books in the Billy Balloon series through our website

Jack's book list on children’s stories you wish you had written

Jack Payton Why Jack loves this book

This is another impressive and prolific book series.

The magic here is how trains on set tracks on an island can have such big and diverse personalities. Thomas was the little engine trying to do big things.

In a way he is like a little kid growing up and exploring their independence. He tries to show he can do things the bigger trains (or kids) can.

My kids and I had a great time growing up alongside Thomas. My son always carried a small Thomas toy in his pocket.

I would notice he would pat his pocket whenever he needed extra encouragement, for example, at the park among the bigger kids.

By Rev. W. Awdry , Josie Yee (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Thomas the Tank Engine's Hidden Surprises as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Thomas is going on a special trip to the circus, and there are lots of wonderful things to discover along the way--a beautiful hot air balloon, a playful dolphin, and a barrel of monkeys, just to name a few! Lift and peek behind the many flaps and see the hidden surprises. Preschoolers will want to climb on board with this fun transportation shaped flap book, bursting with treasures on every page!


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Book cover of Trusting Her Duke

Trusting Her Duke by Arietta Richmond,

A Duke with rigid opinions, a Lady whose beliefs conflict with his, a long disputed parcel of land, a conniving neighbour, a desperate collaboration, a failure of trust, a love found despite it all.

Alexander Cavendish, Duke of Ravensworth, returned from war to find that his father and brother had…

Book cover of Nova the Robot Builds a Friend

Jack Payton Author Of Billy Balloon

From my list on children’s stories you wish you had written.

Why am I passionate about this?

I wrote Billy Balloon in fourth grade for a writing exercise. I remember the teacher reading it to the whole class. I was filled with pride. Then through the years I’d revisit the story and think about getting it published. Many years later, with the support and encouragement from my family, I finally decided to go through with it. We then went from wanting to publish one book to building a brand similar to Curious George and Thomas the Train. We had such a great experience and fun time we also decided to share the adventure with others. We invite readers to submit ideas for other books in the Billy Balloon series through our website

Jack's book list on children’s stories you wish you had written

Jack Payton Why Jack loves this book

This one is part of a small group of books I’m going to keep and one day read to my grandchildren.

I hope printed books will still be around. This board book holds a special place. My kids learned names of colors and shapes with this book.

This is the book I remember sitting my kids on my lap, watching them turn pages with their chubby little hands, while I read to them.

By David Kirk ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Nova the Robot Builds a Friend as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 2, 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

Youngsters can learn their colors and shapes as they help Nova the Robot build himself a friend, in a robot-shaped board book which features the author's popular eight-year-old robot boy, Nova.


Book cover of I Love You to the Moon and Back

Xaviera Plooij Author Of The Wonder Weeks: A Stress-Free Guide to Your Baby's Behavior

From my list on children's books to stimulate development.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am the co-author and CEO of The Wonder Weeks. I advise various global players in the field of babies and I'm a sought-after speaker at fairs and in daily exchange with mothers and fathers. With all this knowledge I know the needs of parents and their children like no other, with my books and apps I stand for power to the parents! 

Xaviera's book list on children's books to stimulate development

Xaviera Plooij Why Xaviera loves this book

It’s never enough to show love to your children. Telling love stories to your little one is very important. This book shows the love between a bear and a cub, who are together every single day. They show their love for each other in many ways. The illustration and story of this adorable book make the bear and cub so real and came right into my heart. For me, it is one of the best real love stories, love in a way how it means to be.

By Amelia Hepworth , Tim Warnes (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I Love You to the Moon and Back as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 2, 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

So snuggle safely in my arms; our day is nearly done. I love you to the moon and stars, my precious little one.

A beautiful hardback gift edition of the international best-seller I Love You to the Moon and Back, a bedtime favourite with familiar and reassuring text by Amelia Hepworth and heartwarming illustrations by Tim Warnes.

When the sun comes up, Big Bear and Little Bear think of new ways to share their love. Big Bear loves Little Bear more and more as each day passes, right up to each new moon - and back.

Now this joyful celebration…


Book cover of I Love You Like No Otter

Avery Smart Author Of Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word

From my list on mix fun stories with important lessons.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been passionate about teaching kindness and good manners since becoming a parent. Raising three energetic kids has shown me firsthand how small lessons in empathy and respect can shape their world. At first, I created fun stories to help my children understand the power of simple words like "please" and "thank you." Now, as a children’s book author, I bring those lessons to life through storytelling, making manners and values fun and memorable. The books on this list have inspired me in my journey, and I hope they bring the same joy and guidance to you and your little ones!

Avery's book list on mix fun stories with important lessons

Avery Smart Why Avery loves this book

I adore this one because it’s the perfect mix of sweetness and playful wordplay. From the moment I picked it up, I couldn’t stop smiling—it’s filled with adorable puns and charming animal illustrations that make reading it an absolute delight. It’s the kind of book that instantly lifts your mood.

What makes this book so special to me is how it captures love in such a lighthearted, joyful way. Whether reading it with little ones or gifting it to someone special, it always brings warmth and laughter. I love how it turns simple moments into something magical, reminding us how words can be both fun and meaningful. It’s a book I reach for whenever I need a dose of happiness!

By Rose Rossner , Sydney Hanson (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I Love You Like No Otter as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Give hedgehugs and kisses to your little squeakheart with this pun-tastic, funny baby book, the perfect gift for baby showers, new parents, or any occasion!
There's no better way to say "I love you" than with a sweet and heartfelt animal pun book! I Love You Like No Otter combines a warm message of love with beautifully illustrated animals families will love to read and share together. From Valentine's Day books for kids to baby shower gifts and bedtime readalouds all year long, this adorable board book is purrfect for anyone you love beary much!
The best book gift for:…


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Book cover of The Duke's Christmas Redemption

The Duke's Christmas Redemption by Arietta Richmond,

A Duke who has rejected love, a Lady who dreams of a love match, an arranged marriage, a house full of secrets, a most unneighborly neighbor, a plot to destroy reputations, an unexpected love that redeems it all.

Lady Charlotte Wyndham, given in an arranged marriage to a man she…

Book cover of Made for Me

Natasha Wing Author Of The Night Before Father's Day

From my list on fathers and journals for daughters.

Why am I passionate about this?

My father died in 2020 during the pandemic so Father’s Day has taken on a new importance to me as far as reminding people to spend time with the people they love before they are gone. I had started to write a story about my dad and his childhood days before he went to the hospital, and with the help of his friend, was able to complete it for the family to have as a keepsake. I encourage kids to ask questions of their parents and for parents to write down or audio record the stories that they want to pass down. Children’s books and journals are a great way to start the conversation.

Natasha's book list on fathers and journals for daughters

Natasha Wing Why Natasha loves this book

I love good rhyming books and this one works! Plus there is a heart-warming refrain that especially gets me at the end of the story. “Of all the children that ever could be, you are the one made just for me.” It’s about a father who adores his new baby from its soft, tiny hands to all the cute things the child does. The illustrations depict a very large, round father who reminds me of a gentle Paul Bunyan. I could see it as a baby shower gift for dads. 

By Zack Bush , Gregorio de Lauretis (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Made for Me as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

National Best Seller:  Made For Me 
Over 2000 5-star Amazon reviews
Of all the children that ever could be,
You are the one made just for me.

From a child's first uttered "Dada" to his or her first unsteady steps, nothing can adequately convey the joy and awe of watching the birth and growth of a new child. Now releasing as a board book filled with adorable illustrations and the refrain, "You are the one made just for me," Made for Me is a winning presentation of tender moments that tie a father and his new child together--forever.


Book cover of Thedadlab: 50 Awesome Science Projects for Parents and Kids

Scott Bedford Author Of Made by Dad: 67 Blueprints for Making Cool Stuff: Projects You Can Build for (and With) Your Kids!

From my list on getting dads making and creating with their kids.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am an author, illustrator, and award-winning creative director. I have loved to draw and make things since a young age, mostly wacky contraptions (inspired by my love of the Hanna-Barbera Wacky Races cartoons). I’m particularly passionate about making the process of creating fun, the five books below definitely achieve that, each in its own unique way.

Scott's book list on getting dads making and creating with their kids

Scott Bedford Why Scott loves this book

This book replicates, in print form, the sciencey based projects that can be found on DadLab, Sergei Urban's hugely popular YouTube channel. The projects are varied and fun, most achievable with basic materials, and all with a STEM link (simple concepts like gravity, magnetism, and electricity). It contains a lot of project ideas, so there will be something for everyone, and plenty you can make using the resources you already have in your home. In fact, that's what I like most, the way Sergei shows us that science is at work everywhere and can be harnessed in simple and imaginative ways, without an engineering degree or fully equipped workshop.

By Sergei Urban ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Thedadlab as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The ultimate collection of DIY activities to do with your kids to teach STEM basics and beyond, from a wildly popular online dad.

With more than 3 million fans, TheDadLab has become an online sensation, with weekly videos of fun and easy science experiments that parents can do with their kids. These simple projects use materials found around the house, making it easier than ever for busy moms and dads to not only spend more quality time with their children but also get them interested in science and technology.

In this mind-blowing book, Sergei Urban takes the challenge off-screen with…


Book cover of In My Heart

Elizabeth Jorgensen Author Of I Love You More

From my list on children's stories that convey profound love.

Why am I passionate about this?

It's a pleasure to share these books with other readers because they so elegantly convey love in a way for young readers to easily understand. They contain elements of reassurance that both children and parents need, especially during times of transition. I didn't comprehend how much love I could have for another person until the birth of my daughter. My love for her was so immense and all-consuming that it brought an unfathomable joy to my life. I read these books to her during transitional times as a way to articulate the infinite love I have for her. I hope they bring as much comfort and closeness to other readers as they have to us.

Elizabeth's book list on children's stories that convey profound love

Elizabeth Jorgensen Why Elizabeth loves this book

This gorgeously illustrated book helped my daughter and I through a difficult time when I had to travel out of the country for work. The illustrations put into pictures what I could not put into words- that no matter where I was, or what I was doing, she was always on my mind and in my heart. 

By Molly Bang ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked In My Heart as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Parents describe how their child is always in their hearts, no matter where they are or what they are doing.


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Book cover of Old Man Country

Old Man Country by Thomas R. Cole,

This book follows the journey of a writer in search of wisdom as he narrates encounters with 12 distinguished American men over 80, including Paul Volcker, the former head of the Federal Reserve, and Denton Cooley, the world’s most famous heart surgeon.

In these and other intimate conversations, the book…

Book cover of Two Homes

Gail Reichlin Author Of The Pocket Parent

From my list on motivate kids to manage their own behaviors and feelings.

Why am I passionate about this?

As an internationally respected discipline expert, I guide parents in how to get more compliance than defiance from their little ones. I coined the phrase “The Dance of Non-Compliance” between parent and child. In order to change the dance, the parent will usually have to change his/her dance step first. It is often impossible during the heat of the moment, to teach ‘the lesson’ to the child due to the agitated emotional state of both parent and child. A well-executed picture book, appropriately written and illustrated for young children's developmental thinking ability, can open the door for a meaningful discussion regarding their misbehavior and feelings.

Gail's book list on motivate kids to manage their own behaviors and feelings

Gail Reichlin Why Gail loves this book

Today separation and divorce is common and moms and dads wonder how much explaining is appropriate for their 2- to 6-year old. As a preschool teacher, I found this the very best picture book available to read over and over to give children a positive glimpse of living in two happy, healthy, albeit different homes. There is not a drop of negativity in this book. It is totally upbeat, simple, honest, and encouraging. The main character, Alex (neither male nor female in name nor illustration) is quite comfortable and thankful for his two homes as Alex points out the differences. But, the one most important thing that remains the same is that Alex is loved by both Mom and Dad all the time, no matter whose house he is at. The positive focus is on what is gained and unique at each home rather than what is lost when parents…

By Claire Masurel , Kady MacDonald Denton (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Two Homes as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

A comforting, reassuring and sensitive portrayal of divorce.

In this award-winning picture book classic about divorce, Alex has two homes - a home where Daddy lives and a home where Mummy lives. Alex has two front doors, two bedrooms and two very different favourite chairs. He has a toothbrush at Mummy's and a toothbrush at Daddy's. But whether Alex is with Mummy or Daddy, one thing stays the same: Alex is loved by them both - always. This gently reassuring story focuses on what is gained rather than what is lost when parents divorce, while the sensitive illustrations, depicting two…


Book cover of How Full Is Your Bucket? For Kids
Book cover of Curious George
Book cover of Thomas the Tank Engine's Hidden Surprises

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Interested in animals, pregnancy, and dads?

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