Here at gurgle, we know that there’s nothing like a good book and the earlier you start reading to your child the better, as this will help to foster a love of reading within him.

That’s why we’ve rounded up our top books of the moment for you and your toddler to read and enjoy together:

1) Let’s face it – anything by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo, is sure to be a winner. If you haven’t already read it, try Monkey Puzzle out for size. It tells the tale of a little monkey who has lost his mum – but don’t worry, there’s a happy ending. Funny and heartwarming, you and your toddler are bound to both love it.

2) The latest installment from the dynamic duo, Donaldson and Scheffler, is Stick Man, which tells the story of a ‘Stick Man’ who is separated from his ‘stick lady love' and ‘stick children three.’ As luck would have it, he is eventually reunited with his family – but not before he has an adventure or two!

3) Every toddler loves Lauren Child’s Charlie and Lola books. But which story should you go for? Well now you don’t have to choose, as there is a Charlie and Lola: My Completely Best Story Collection Book. The book features five stories, making it the perfect collection for any Charlie and Lola fan.

4) The Hungry Caterpillar. You may well remember this one from your youth; accompanied by beautiful illustrations, Eric Carle’s book tells the tale of a very hungry caterpillar who just will not fill up!

5) Do you have a little girl who loves fairies, princesses and all things pink? Then 365 Stories and Rhymes for girls, by various authors, may be just the thing for her. Filled with bite-size poems, rhymes, nursery songs and adventure stories, this is perfect for any girly girl.

6) And for the boys! Give your little pirate a treat with 365 Stories and Rhymes for boys, by various authors.

7) Aliens Love Underpants, by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort. Children love funny books and this hilarious story, which tells of aliens who come to earth to steal…yes, you guessed it – underpants - is sure to have you all in fits of giggles.

8) Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak. Another classic, this story tells the tale of Max, who is sent to his room after being naughty and then embarks on an imaginary adventure to a far-away land, where he meets a host of weird and wonderful wild creatures. A real treat for children and adults alike!

9) The Olivia series by Ian Falconer are also incredibly popular with toddlers. Olivia is a pig who is slightly mischievous, but very lovable. Why not follow her adventures in the original Olivia, Olivia saves the circus, Olivia forms a band or Olivia and the Missing Toy?

10) The Tiger who came to tea, by Judith Kerr. What would you do if a tiger came to your house for tea? This is the dilemma that faces Sophie, who has to find enough food in the house to feed the tiger’s insatiable appetite! Share Sophie’s exciting adventure and amusement as the tiger eats her and her parents out of house and home.

For more information on how to read with your toddler, why not have a look at our features on Reading with your preschooler and Encouraging your toddler to read? If your toddler's favourite book isn't in our list, why not share it with other gurglers in the Education area of the chat forum, or you can start your own 'best books' group.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Last Modified: 08/05/2009