Stocking filler books for children
Small, cheap and cheerful. Here is what to look for in a book that fits in a stocking, with ideas for every age.
A stocking is a small space, so the books that go in it need to be small too. The good news is that some of the most fun books for children come in compact, pocket-sized, low-price formats: joke books, puzzles, mini board books and short series.
Aim for a book that is quick to enjoy on Christmas morning and does not need much concentration. Chapters and puzzles to nibble at all day suit this best.
What makes a good stocking filler book
- Small and light, so it fits without squashing everything else.
- Fun straight away. Jokes, puzzles and pictures that work on the first page.
- Affordable, because there may be many other things in the stocking.
- Right for the child. A book on a favourite topic beats a generic pick.
- Not too long. Save the 400-page novel for the main present.
Ideas by age
Babies and toddlers
Mini board books
Look for small board books, sometimes sold in sets of four, with animals, shapes or colours. Pocket-sized lift-the-flap books and bath books are also good. Choose sturdy pages for little hands.
Ages 3 to 5
Small picture books and sticker books
Mini editions of popular picture books are often sold at a reduced price. Sticker books, colouring books and simple puzzle books are also good for this age. The Mr Men and Little Miss series come in a small, stocking-friendly size.
Ages 6 to 8
Joke books, activity books and short stories
Joke and riddle books are great for early readers, because a funny line is a short read. Look for the Little Gems series from Barrington Stoke, which are short, accessible chapter books, and for small activity or maze books.
Ages 9 to 12
Pocket puzzles, trivia and mini annuals
Trivia books, quiz books and codes and puzzles keep tweens busy. Pocket editions of search-and-find books and short graphic novels suit this age too. Remember to check themes, since some books for older readers may not suit every child.
Book gifts that are not books
A stocking can hold more than books. For a book lover, try:
- A bookmark, shop-bought or homemade.
- A torch for reading under the covers.
- A small notebook and a pencil for writing stories.
- A library tote bag. Great for carrying borrowed books home.
- A reading light that clips on to a book.
Making it fun
- Roll comics and puzzle books and tie them with ribbon so they look festive.
- Wrap each book separately, so there is more to open.
- Put the book at the top, so it is the first thing that is found.
- Write a note on the inside cover for a personal touch.
- Keep an eye on the total. A few good items beat a bulging stocking.
Spending less
- Buy second-hand. Charity shops are good for joke books, small annuals and picture books in great condition. Our guide to a home library on a budget has more tips.
- Shop early, when there is more choice and less pressure.
- Share the cost. If several relatives are filling stockings, agree who is buying what so books do not double up.
- Make something. A homemade coupon for a library trip together can be worth more than a book.
For bigger presents, see our full children’s book gift guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good book for a stocking filler?
A small, quick-to-enjoy book such as a joke book, a puzzle book, a mini board book or a short chapter book. Choose something related to your child’s interests.
How many books should I put in a stocking?
One or two is plenty. A stocking has a lot to hold, and it is nice to leave room for a small treat and a toy.
Are there stocking fillers for babies that are books?
Yes. Small board books, bath books and soft cloth books are all suitable. Look for sturdy ones with bold pictures and no loose pieces.
What books are good stocking fillers for teenagers?
Pocket-sized joke books, short graphic novels, comic collections and quiz books are popular. Our guides focus on ages up to twelve, so for teenagers ask a librarian or the young person’s school for recommendations.