Dinosaurs are a popular theme for children’s books, TV programmes and family shows in the UK. These prehistoric creatures have fascinated us since the first fossils were found over 200 years ago - and we still know so little about them that they provide a great opportunity for kids to use their imagination. Children starting school are the perfect age to discover dinosaurs and form their own ideas about how they might have lived. Here are six dinosaur books for five year olds that will help to spark their curiosity. 

10 Little Dinosaurs - Mike Brownlow 

Ten cute little dinosaurs are heading out to explore the world around them as their mummy sleeps - but they keep running into trouble and soon there’s only one left. Can they be reunited? This colourful book helps young kids with their counting and number recognition as well as telling a fun story. 

How to Grow a Dinosaur - Caryl Hart & Edward Eaves

Albie wakes up one morning to find his garden has become a prehistoric forest - and it’s home to a host of dinosaurs! Children will love following Albie’s adventure through his garden and finding out if he can escape the ferocious T-rex in this dynamic story. 

The Bedtime Book of Dinosaurs - Dean Lomax

For curious kids who want to learn about real dinosaurs, this book is a must-have. With beautiful illustrations and accessible information, it’s a great introduction to a range of dinosaurs, from T-rex and Triceratops to newer discoveries like Yi. 

Ten Minutes to Bed: Little Dinosaur - Rhiannon Fielding & Chris Chatterton

Rumble the little dinosaur just can’t seem to fall asleep. It’s not surprising with all those erupting volcanoes, noisy creatures and a whole jungle to be explored. But in the end, even the most adventurous dinosaur can get sleepy. This gentle story is designed to help kids calm down as well as engaging their imaginations. 

Touch and Explore: Dinosaurs

Kids who engage with sensory experiences can learn about dinosaurs with this colourful book that includes different textures and flaps. Children can feel the feathers of Microraptor and the scaly skin of Triceratops as they learn the basics about dinosaurs large and small. 

An Adventurer’s Guide to Dinosaurs - Isabel Thomas & Yas Imamura

Combining fact with fiction, this story follows Mia, who is on a journey to discover what life was really like when the dinosaurs walked the earth. Kids will meet an array of prehistoric beasts, from gigantic titanosaurs to winged wonders - as well as enjoying some interactive activities. 

See dinosaurs on tour

If your child is inspired by any of the books on our list, why not take them to meet some dinosaurs live on stage? Dinosaur World Live is touring the UK from February 2025, and introduces children to the prehistoric world with spectacular puppetry. Simply search ‘family show near me’ or ‘family theatre near me’ to check if it’s playing at your local venue and book your tickets today.