Books have a magical way of shaping young minds, sparking curiosity, and opening doors to extraordinary adventures. For little ones just beginning their reading journey, EarthLab brings you a charming selection of English fiction books crafted especially for early readers. These stories are simple yet engaging, filled with warmth, imagination, and playful adventures that make reading fun. With lovable characters, gentle lessons, and relatable moments, these books are perfect for building confidence and nurturing a lifelong love for stories.
CACTUS WANTS A HUG
Written by- Neil Flory
Published by-Hachette India
Buy this fiction book for early readers here!
Who doesn’t want a hug? Even a cactus needs a hug sometimes! Welcome to the sweet, funny, and beautifully illustrated journey of a prickly-pokey cactus, who, like the rest of us, longs for a hug. But who would hug a cactus? Our sad and hug-seeking cactus leaves the desert and begins looking for a hug everywhere, but given his not-so-hug-friendly nature, his quest is challenging. Just as he is about to lose all hope, he finds someone who surprises him.
This heart-warming story is about self-acceptance, and the joy of friendship. After all, friends always give the warmest hugs, making life more bearable. If you’re looking for a cozy and charming picture book for your child, this one is a perfect choice. To buy this fiction book click on the link.
A delightful tale about friendships, and how the most authentic and extraordinary bonds can blossom in the most unexpected places.
This picture book follows the story of little Lakshmi, who has heard her Amma say, “Every cow has a bird.” Inspired by this, Lakshmi wants her own bird, a friend who will stay with her forever, many birds come and go, but none stay, though Lakshmi never loses hope. Will Lakshmi ever find her forever friend? This engaging tale, filled with vibrant illustrations, simple storytelling, and a unique point of view, is a perfect read for early readers. To buy this fiction book click on the link.
MARVELLOUSLY MIXED-UP
Written by- Neil Flory
Published by-Hachette India
Buy this fiction book for early readers here!
This book feels like entering a multiverse of madness, with eye-popping and futuristic creatures, Neil Flory takes us on a hilarious and adventurous journey into a world of mixed-up animals.
What happens when you mix a snail and a moth? Or a kangaroo and a grasshopper? Come along as we delve and encounter imaginative hybrids like the Donpidrill, Snoth, Hedgekunk, Hipsquirrot, Kangahopper, and so many more unique creations. With stunning illustrations and hilarious descriptions, this book is a delightful read for young animal lovers and fans of the whimsical. To buy this fiction book click on the link.
This enchanting tale takes readers to a magical world through a sweet and thoughtful story.
The plot follows a poor shoemaker and his wife, who work hard and pray every night to survive tough times. One day, the shoemaker finds a finished pair of shoes waiting in his shop instead of the cutouts he left behind. Who is working in the shop at night?
The story introduces the elves, who secretly assist the couple, transforming their lives. In return, the shoemaker and his wife make clothes, shoes, and food for the elves as a gesture of gratitude. With its timeless themes of kindness, hard work, and community, paired with charming illustrations, this story is perfect for children aged 5–9. To buy this fiction book click on the link.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO EAT SOFT, FLUFFY IDLIS?
Written by- Radhika Suri
Published by- IndiePress
Buy this fiction book for early readers here!
Join Radhika on a delicious journey to explore the art of making idlis; a soft, tangy South Indian treat.
The story revolves around Ajji, her grandchildren Kai and Pai, and their grand-dog Gobi Manchurian who brainstorm creative ways to make the perfect idlis. But what happens when the batter doesn’t rise as expected? Filled with clever tricks, fun learning moments, and delightful illustrations, this book offers a delightful mix of culinary adventure and family bonding. It’s a must-read for little foodies. To buy this fiction book click on the link.
ILHAM’S BIRTHDAY
Written by- Aftab Yusuf Shaikh
Published by- Tulika Books
Buy this fiction book for early readers here!
It’s Ilham’s birthday, and she’s received a crisp fifty-rupee note by her father. But where can she safely keep the note?
This picture book is a charming little nugget that brims with the flavors of old Hyderabad. With its engaging storytelling and vivid illustrations, the story follows Ilham as she decides to have a pocket stitched onto her frock to keep her note safe. The story takes an unexpected turn when she encounters a whole new problem with the tailor Chachi. This book is a perfect choice for early readers, offering an entertaining and relatable tale with a cultural touch. To buy this fiction book click on the link.
Let Vaishnavi Giri take you on an exciting adventure through the magical mangroves of the Sundarbans.
The story follows Paro, a little mudskipper (an amphibious fish), who has lost her way in the dense forests. Will she find her way back to the marshlands? Who will help her get back to her home safely; will it be the silver rhesus macaques, the chequered keel back snake, or the majestic tiger?
The book is an excellent way to introduce children to wildlife and have discussions about understanding, appreciating and protecting wildlife. This book beautifully depicts the diverse flora and fauna of the Sundarbans, with its stunning illustrations and a compelling story it makes up for a perfect read for early readers. To buy this fiction book click on the link.
BASKETFUL OF ANIMAL TALES (PANCHATANTRA)
Written by-Sreelata Menon
Published by- Harper Children’s
Buy this fiction book for early readers here!
Sreelata Menon brings life to India’s rich historical and literary legacy with retellings of a cluster of fascinating tales straight from Panchtantra. The book is filled with tales of cunning jackals, clever crows, quick-witted monkeys, foolish fish, and dim-witted lions. These timeless stories, told and retold over the centuries, are packed with wisdom and life lessons that remain relevant even in contemporary times. Accompanied by vibrant illustrations, this book is a delightful way to engage early readers with animal tales that are not only entertaining but also enlightening. To buy this fiction book click on the link.