Books About Speed

The Best Speed Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about speed? 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 Speed

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2018

The Sloth Who Slowed Us Down

By Margaret Wild, Vivienne To (Illustrator)

A speedy family learns life's true pace from a slow sloth.

32 pages· 395 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 342 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Summary: Amy's family is always in a rush, with no time to spare. But when a sloth arrives at their doorstep, everything changes. This slow-moving guest teaches them the art of savoring moments, from leisurely bubble baths to drawn-out games. As they embrace his pace, they discover time for stories and evening walks. Can a sloth really transform their hectic lives? Dive into this heartwarming tale of finding joy in slowing down.

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 3–8 · 2017

Take Your Time

By Eva Furrow, Donna Jo Napoli, Laurel Molk (Illustrator)

A tortoise explores new adventures, questioning if speed suits her slow-paced life.

32 pages

3.8/5 Goodreads · 278 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Summary: Harriet the tortoise loves her slow-paced life on the Galápagos Islands. But when her friends urge her to speed up, she embarks on an adventure to a neighboring island. Parading with penguins and riding with dolphins, Harriet discovers a world of excitement. Yet, she must decide if the fast lane is truly her path. Will Harriet embrace the thrill, or return to her leisurely ways? Join her journey to find out.

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 2010

Freddie Ramos Takes Off

By Jacqueline Jules, Miguel Benitez (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Zapato Power series

A mysterious box grants super speed. Can Freddie become a hero?

88 pages· 4,725 words· Est. 40 min read

3.7/5 Goodreads · 493 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Summary: Freddie Ramos discovers a mysterious box containing shoes that grant him super speed. As strange events unfold at Starwood Park Apartments, Freddie must decide how to use his newfound powers. Can he rise to the challenge and help his friends, or will his abilities lead to unexpected consequences? Dive into this thrilling adventure where an ordinary boy faces extraordinary choices.

Sale price

$1398

Chapter Book · Ages 3–6 · 2003

Hi, Harry!

By Martin Waddell, Barbara Firth (Illustrator)

Can a slow tortoise find a friend who appreciates life's gentle pace?

56 pages· 245 words· Est. 5 min read

3.7/5 Goodreads · 181 ratings

$14.99Save 7%

Summary: Harry the tortoise longs for a friend who enjoys the slow lane of life. While everyone else rushes by, Harry dreams of playing Slow Races and sharing leisurely conversations. Will he find someone who values the beauty of taking things slow? Discover how Harry's quest for companionship leads to unexpected friendship and the joy of being understood.

Sale price

$1498

Picture Book · Ages 2–5 · 2012

Faster! Faster!

By Leslie Patricelli · Leslie Patricelli Board Books series

A child's imagination races as Daddy runs faster than ever.

32 pages

3.5/5 Goodreads · 473 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Summary: In a lively park adventure, a child rides on Daddy's back, urging him to run faster than a dog, a horse, even a cheetah. Can Daddy's feet keep up with the boundless imagination of his child? This humorous tale captures the joy of a father's playful spirit and a child's limitless dreams, promising laughter and delight as they explore just how fast Daddy can go.

Sale price

$1498

Picture Book · Ages 2–5 · 2017

Can't Catch Me!

By Timothy Knapman, Simona Ciraolo (Illustrator)

A speedy mouse taunts hungry predators. Can he outrun them all?

32 pages

3.5/5 Goodreads · 197 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Summary: Jake, the self-proclaimed fastest mouse, races through the forest, taunting a cat, a fox, a wolf, and a bear. His boastful cries echo, 'Can't catch me!' But as clever Old Tom Cat plots, will Jake's speed be enough to escape? With each encounter, the stakes rise, leading to a surprising twist. Will Jake's confidence be his downfall, or will he outsmart his pursuers? This mischievous tale, filled with energetic illustrations, invites readers to join the chase and discover if speed truly conquers all.

Sale price

$759

Board Book · Ages 2–4 · 2006

Clip-Clop!

By Nicola Smee · Clip-Clop series

Barnyard friends ride Mr. Horse, craving speed. Will faster lead to disaster?

26 pages

4.4/7 Bookroo experts·4.0/5 Goodreads · 2,542 ratings

$7.95Save 5%

Summary: Mr. Horse takes Cat, Dog, Pig, and Duck on a thrilling ride. As they beg for more speed, the excitement builds. But can Mr. Horse keep up without things going awry? Discover the joy and anticipation as these friends push the limits, wondering if their fun will end in chaos or delight. A charming tale of friendship and adventure awaits.

Sale price

$574

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2025

Creature Powers: The Fastest!

By Martin Kratt, Chris Kratt, Random House (Illustrator) · Wild Kratts series

Discover the secrets of speed with the Wild Kratts and their animal friends.

32 pages· 527 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 11 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Summary: Join Chris and Martin Kratt as they uncover the incredible speed powers of nature's fastest creatures. From the swift cheetah to the diving falcon, these adventures reveal how speed is a remarkable Creature Power. Perfect for young readers eager to explore and learn, this book combines thrilling animal facts with the joy of reading. Will the Wild Kratts unlock the mysteries of speed? Dive into this exciting journey and find out!

Sale price

$1853

Picture Book · Ages 6–6 · 2007

Slower Than a Slug

By Larry Dane Brimner, Deborah Zemke (Illustrator) · Rookie Readers series

A sibling rivalry unfolds in a rhyming race of opposites.

32 pages· 127 words· Est. 1 min read-aloud

3.3/5 Goodreads · 14 ratings

$19.50Save 5%

Summary: A boy and his little sister engage in a playful, rhyming debate over who is faster. As they race through their day, opposites collide, creating a lively and rhythmic adventure. Will their friendly competition reveal more than just speed? Dive into this charming tale where language and rivalry intertwine, sparking curiosity and laughter.

Sale price

$379

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2012

Extreme Stunts

By Ace Landers, David A. White (Illustrator)

Team Hot Wheels faces daring stunts and thrilling challenges.

32 pages· 226 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud

3.3/5 Goodreads · 40 ratings

$3.99Save 5%

Summary: Join Team Hot Wheels as they tackle the ultimate stunts. With power, precision, speed, and extreme tactics, each driver brings their unique skill to the table. Can they conquer every challenge and push the limits of what's possible? Experience the thrill of the biggest jumps and sharpest turns as the team races against the clock and their own fears. Will they succeed, or will the stunts prove too daring? Buckle up for a high-octane adventure that tests the limits of teamwork and courage.

The Bookroo Book Club