Books About Listening · 84 titles considered

The Best Listening Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about listening? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Listening

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1498

Chapter Book · Ages 7–12 · 2014

El Deafo

By Cece Bell

A girl discovers her hearing aid grants her unexpected powers at a new school. Can she find friendship amidst her newfound abilities?

Newbery Honor (2015)Cybils Award (2014)Odyssey Award (2024)

233 pages· 16,807 words· Est. 3 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 91,948 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Summary: Cece faces the daunting challenge of starting a new school with a conspicuous hearing aid. Feeling isolated, she discovers her Phonic Ear lets her hear her teacher anywhere in the school, turning her into El Deafo, a superhero with a unique power. But with great power comes the struggle of feeling different and alone. Can Cece use her abilities to find true friendship, or will her superpower keep her isolated? Dive into this heartfelt journey of self-discovery and empathy, where being different might just be the key to finding connection.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1983

Little Red Riding Hood

By Trina Schart Hyman

A girl faces a cunning wolf on her way to her grandmother's house.

Caldecott Honor (1984)Golden Kite Award (1984)

32 pages· 1,540 words· Est. 12 min read-aloud

5.6/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 25,142 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Summary: Elisabeth sets off through the woods to deliver food to her ailing grandmother, unaware of the lurking danger. A sly wolf crosses her path, weaving a web of deceit. Will she outsmart the cunning creature, or fall prey to its tricks? This timeless tale, brought to life with enchanting illustrations, invites readers to explore the tension between innocence and cunning. As Elisabeth navigates the forest, the stakes rise with each step, leaving readers to wonder: who will triumph in this classic battle of wits?

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2018

The Rabbit Listened

By Cori Doerffeld (Author/Illustrator), Cori Doerrfeld (Author/Illustrator)

A child tries to build something but it doesn't go as planned.

The E.B. White Read Aloud Honor (2019)Golden Kite Honor (2019)

32 pages· 275 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

5.6/7 Bookroo experts·4.6/5 Goodreads · 9,639 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Summary: Taylor's world crumbles when their block castle is destroyed. Each animal offers advice, but nothing feels right. The chicken talks, the bear suggests anger, yet Taylor remains lost. Then, the rabbit arrives, offering no solutions, just a quiet presence. In a world full of noise, sometimes the greatest comfort is simply being heard. Discover how empathy and listening can heal even the deepest heartaches.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1996

Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse

By Kevin Henkes · Lilly series

A confiscated purse sparks a journey from fury to forgiveness.

ALA Notable Children's Books (1997)

32 pages· 1,483 words· Est. 12 min read-aloud

5.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 30,348 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: Lilly adores school and her teacher, Mr. Slinger. But when her excitement over a purple plastic purse disrupts class, Mr. Slinger takes it away. Furious, Lilly seeks revenge, only to realize her mistake. Can she find a way to make things right and learn a valuable lesson about patience and forgiveness? Discover Lilly's journey from anger to understanding in this delightful tale of childhood emotions and reconciliation.

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2016

Chimpanzees for Tea!

By Jo Empson

Vincent's grocery list turns into a hilarious mix-up with unexpected surprises.

32 pages· 291 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

5.3/7 Bookroo experts·3.7/5 Goodreads · 473 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Summary: Vincent's simple grocery errand spirals into chaos as distractions transform his list into a wild adventure. A tin of peas becomes a trapeze, and a firm pear turns into a furry bear. Will Vincent's mother be ready for the unexpected surprises he brings home? This playful tale, filled with rhythm and humor, promises laughter and delight for young readers.

Sale price

$474

Board Book · Ages 2–5 · 1971

Baby Listens

By Esther Wilkin, Eloise Wilkin (Illustrator)

Babies explore household sounds, from jingling keys to buzzing razors.

24 pages

4.3/5 Goodreads · 159 ratings

$4.99Save 5%

Summary: Chubby-cheeked babies embark on a delightful auditory adventure, discovering the symphony of sounds within their home. From the cheerful jingle of keys to the gentle buzz of a razor, each noise sparks curiosity and wonder. This charming tale, adorned with Eloise Wilkin's enchanting illustrations, invites young readers to explore the familiar yet magical world of everyday sounds. What new discoveries await in the next room?

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2021

Listen

By Gabi Snyder, Stephanie Graegin (Illustrator)

Discover the hidden symphony beneath the city's noise.

40 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 464 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Summary: Amidst the city's clamor, a young girl embarks on a journey of mindfulness, tuning into the subtle symphony of everyday sounds. From crows cawing to whispered goodnights, she learns to hear beyond the noise. Can she find peace in the quiet moments? This beautifully illustrated tale invites readers to explore the art of listening and the serenity it brings.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2022

Song in the City

By Daniel Bernstrom, Jenin Mohammed (Illustrator)

A blind girl and her grandmother discover the city's hidden music together.

40 pages

4.3/5 Goodreads · 354 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Summary: In a bustling city, a blind girl shares her unique perspective with her grandmother, revealing the hidden symphony of urban life. As they listen, the city’s melodies transform their bond, bridging generations through shared music and joy. Can the vibrant sounds of the streets rival the beauty of Sunday hymns? Join their journey of love and understanding as they explore the harmonious world around them, discovering that music is everywhere if you just listen.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2020

Wild Symphony

By Dan Brown, Susan Batori (Illustrator)

Uncover secrets and solve puzzles with Maestro Mouse on a musical journey across the world.

44 pages· 1,296 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,557 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Summary: Join Maestro Mouse on a whimsical adventure through forests and oceans, meeting creatures like whales and cheetahs, each with a secret to share. Discover hidden surprises, solve coded messages, and enjoy enchanting music with an interactive app. Will you uncover all the mysteries Maestro Mouse has left behind? This picture book offers a unique blend of storytelling and music, inviting readers to explore a world where every page holds a new surprise. Perfect for children and adults alike, it's a journey of discovery and melody that promises to delight and engage.

Sale price

$858

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2006

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

By Kate DiCamillo, Bagram Ibatoulline (Illustrator)

A lost china rabbit embarks on a journey of love and loss.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (2006)

240 pages· 17,113 words· Est. 2 hour read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 125,878 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Summary: Edward Tulane, a china rabbit, is adored by Abilene until he is lost. His journey takes him from ocean depths to city streets, teaching him about love, loss, and the power of an open heart. Will Edward find his way back to love, or remain lost forever?

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Browse by age

Listening Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about listening for the youngest readers and listeners.

Sale price

$1499

Listen, Listen

Ages 1–4 · 2007

Discover nature's sounds through the changing seasons.

Sale price

$999

Listening Time

Ages 1–3 · 2008

Discover the secret to calm listening and cooperation for toddlers.

Sale price

$695

Be Careful, Icarus!

Ages 1–3 · 2015

A kite flies too high, leading to unexpected trouble.

Sale price

$1299

Choo! Choo!

Ages 1–4 · 2015

Guess the vehicle from animal sounds and lift the flap to reveal surprises.

Sale price

$799

Little Elephant Listens

Ages 2–4 · 2014

Little Elephant learns the world through listening.

Sherlock Holmes in The Hound of the Baskervilles

Sale price

$999

Sherlock Holmes in The Hound of the Baskervilles

Ages 2–4 · 2013

Explore the eerie sounds of a mysterious night.

Sale price

$599

What Can I Hear?

Ages 0–2 · 2012

Discover the world of sounds with playful babies.

Sale price

$799

Snakes on a Train

Ages 2–5 · 2019

Snakes board a train, tickets in hand. The journey begins with a hiss.

Sale price

$699

Time-Out for Sophie

Ages 1–4 · 2013

A mischievous mouse tests her family's patience, leading to inevitable time-outs.

Sale price

$899

Listen Like an Elephant

Ages 0–3 · 2019

Discover mindfulness with a colorful elephant, helping kids focus anywhere.

Sale price

$999

I Listen

Ages 2–4 · 2019

Discover the power of listening and belonging through a child's ears.

Sale price

$899

Baby Loves the Five Senses: Hearing!

Ages 0–3 · 2019

Discover the science of sound and how we hear it.

View all listening board books

Browse by age

Listening Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about listening for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Sale price

$1799

Telephone

Ages 4–8 · 2014

A series of messages are sent to Peter, telling him to fly away from a monster lobster.

Sale price

$899

Strega Nona

Ages 4–8 · 1975

A magic pasta pot causes chaos when misused.

Sale price

$2399

Lacey Walker, Nonstop Talker

Ages 4–6 · 2012

A young girl learns the value of listening after losing her voice.

Sale price

$599

Fancy Nancy and the Delectable Cupcakes

Ages 4–8 · 2010

A young girl bakes cupcakes for a school bake sale, but things don't go as planned.

Sale price

$499

The Cat Who Wore a Pot on Her Head

Ages 4–8 · 1967

A mysterious journey challenges everything known.

Sale price

$1899

The Listeners

Ages 6–9 · 2009

A young slave listens for whispers of freedom and hope in the night.

Sale price

$1095

The Worst Day of My Life Ever!

Ages 4–8 · 2011

A boy's day unravels due to not listening. Can he turn it around?

Sale price

$1295

A Quiet Girl

Ages 4–7 · 2022

In a noisy world, a quiet girl reveals hidden wonders.

Sale price

$799

The Listening Walk

Ages 4–8 · 1961

Discover a world of sounds on a quiet walk. Listen closely and be amazed.

Sale price

$1299

Listen, Buddy

Ages 4–7 · 2013

A rabbit's poor listening skills lead him into a dangerous cave.

Sale price

$2199

The Storm Whale

Ages 4–8 · 2013

A storm brings a whale, revealing a boy's loneliness and a father's newfound understanding.

Sale price

$1799

Let's Have a Dog Party!

Ages 3–5 · 2019

A birthday party goes awry when Frank hides. Can Kate bring him back?

View all listening picture books

Browse by age

Listening Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about listening for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$1099

Andi Unexpected

Ages 8–12 · 2013

A girl uncovers a family mystery hidden in an attic, leading to secrets and intrigue.

Sale price

$899

The Whispers

Ages 10–+ · 2019

A boy's quest for magical creatures may reveal more than he bargained for.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1699

The White Snake (Graphic Novel)

Ages 8–12 · 2019

A young adventurer must uncover a king's secret and win a princess's trust to escape peril.

Sale price

$599

In the City

1994

A city of layers hides secrets within its smallest parts.

Sale price

$599

The Teeny-Tiny Woman

Ages 6–7 · 1995

A tiny woman finds a bone, but a big surprise awaits her.

Sale price

$1295

Just My Luck

Ages 9–13 · 2016

A dodgeball mishap, a crush, and chaos at the Fall Fiesta-val. Can Zack win Abhi's heart?

Sale price

$599

Freddie Ramos Hears It All

Ages 7–10 · 2019

A boy with super hearing must resist the urge to eavesdrop.

View all listening chapter books

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Books about deafness Books about empathy Books about superheroes

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Our 10 Favorite Books About Listening

Great books, picked for their age.

Listening Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Listening Picture Books

Listening Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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