Selecting the perfect title for your children’s book is as critical as its illustrations or storyline. A well-chosen title captures the essence of the book, attracts young readers and their parents, and makes your book memorable. Here’s a guide to creating a compelling book title based on successful examples in various categories.

Our team has conducted an extensive analysis of the bestsellers among 100 children's books, carefully categorizing the title patterns into distinct groups. This systematic classification has allowed us to identify the most effective naming conventions across various genres and themes. By studying these patterns, we provide insights and guidance on how to craft titles that not only capture the essence of the story but also enhance market appeal, ensuring your book stands out in a competitive landscape.

Rhyming and Repetitive

Titles that rhyme or repeat phrases are inherently catchy and easy to remember, making them favorites among young readers. They have a rhythmic quality that resonates well in read-aloud settings.

• Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? (Bill Martin Jr.)
• One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish (Dr. Seuss)
• Chicka Chicka Boom Boom (Bill Martin Jr.)
• Sheep in a Jeep (Nancy Shaw)
• Hop on Pop (Dr. Seuss)

Descriptive

Descriptive titles directly convey the main theme or setting, providing a clear hint about the content. This transparency helps set expectations and draw in readers looking for specific themes.

• Where the Wild Things Are (Maurice Sendak)
• The Very Hungry Caterpillar (Eric Carle)
• The Snowy Day (Ezra Jack Keats)
• The Polar Express (Chris Van Allsburg)
• The Tale of Peter Rabbit (Beatrix Potter)

Character-Focused

When a character's name is in the title, it creates a personal connection with the reader. These titles tend to revolve around the adventures or daily life of the main character, instantly highlighting the protagonist.

• Curious George (H. A. Rey)
• Harold and the Purple Crayon (Crockett Johnson)
• Olivia (Ian Falconer)
• Madeline (Ludwig Bemelmans)
• Corduroy (Don Freeman)

Action-Oriented

Focusing on an action or main event, these titles capture the dynamic elements of the story, often appealing to children's adventurous spirits.

• Green Eggs and Ham (Dr. Seuss)
• If You Give a Mouse a Cookie (Laura Joffe Numeroff)
• The Kissing Hand (Audrey Penn)
• We're Going On a Bear Hunt (Michael Rosen)
• Press Here (Hervé Tullet)

Emotion and Relationship

Titles in this category evoke feelings or explore relationships, often addressing deeper emotional layers that resonate with both children and adults.

• Love You Forever (Robert N. Munsch)
• Guess How Much I Love You (Sam McBratney)
• On the Night You Were Born (Nancy Tillman)
• The Giving Tree (Shel Silverstein)
• Someday (Alison McGhee)

Humorous and Playful

Humor is a universal language that appeals across ages. Titles that are humorous or playful attract children’s attention and are perfect for light-hearted, entertaining reads.

• Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs (Judi Barrett)
• Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! (Mo Willems)
• Moo, Baa, La La La! (Sandra Boynton)
• The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales (Jon Scieszka)

Journey and Adventure

These titles suggest a narrative filled with exploration and adventure, promising excitement and new experiences, which are captivating to young minds.

• Oh, the Places You’ll Go! (Dr. Seuss)
• How I Became a Pirate (Melinda Long)
• Jumanji (Chris Van Allsburg)
• The Paper Bag Princess (Robert N. Munsch)

Conclusion:

Finding just the right name for your children's book can really make a difference. Our guide uses simple, proven tips to help you come up with a title that catches the eye and sticks in the memory. We hope you can create a name that fits your story perfectly and wins over the hearts of kids and their parents.