17 Top Storybooks Suited for Young ESL Learners

Which storytelling books are best suited for young English Language Learners? Stories that won’t send children to sleep!

One of my top favourites is “Please, Mr Panda” By Steve Antony It’s big, it’s short, the illustrations are fresh and simple and it contains minimal text – All winning factors when it comes to storytelling and introducing new vocabulary to pre-schoolers.

It also makes an ideal story to “dramatize”. Bring to class a few simple props and masks , re-tell the story and have the children role-play it. Children have fun, get to repeat and practice the language and will especially love it if you pull out some cardboard doughnuts at the end!

Based on the recommendations of fellow ESL teachers – Here is a list of the Top 17 best loved storybooks suited for young ESL learners

1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar – Eric Carle
2. Brown Bear – Eric Carle
3. We’re Going On A Bear Hunt – Michael Rosen
4. The Smartest Giant in Town – Julia Donaldson
5. Good News Bad News – Jeff Maki
6. Yes – Jez Alborough
7. Boas Bad Birthday – Jeanne Willis
8. Dear Zoo – Rod Campbell
9. Tiny Little Fly – Micheal Rosen
10. Elmer – David McKee
11. The Rainbow Fish – Marcus Pfister
12. Tall, Small – Jez Alborough
13. Monkey Puzzle – Julia Donaldson
14. Where The Wild Things Are – Maurice Sendak
15. Room On The Broom – Julia Donaldson
16. Chocolate Cake – Michael Rosen
17. Hug – Jez Alborough

Do you have any storybook favourites? I’ll happily add them to the list