Leprechaun Day, you ask? Yes, it’s May 13th–and it’s a lot more kid-friendly that what St. Patrick’s Day has become. It seems those mythical men dressed in green are so loved that one day a year isn’t enough to contain their popularity. Now check out some books that will have your kids reading about leprechauns all year round!
Too Many Leprechauns, by Stephen Krensky
Leprechauns are, of course, known for the roles they play on St. Patrick’s Day, but what do they do for the rest of the year? This adorable story follows a group of them as they attend to their mischievous duties. The book contains beautiful illustrations by Dan Andreasen. [Recommended for ages 4 and up]
Ten Lucky Leprechauns, by Kathryn Heling and Deborah Hembrook
This book is very entertaining due to the rhyming of the words and the expressions of joy on the characters’ faces. It doubles as a teaching tool for younger children learning to count from one to ten. You’ll find yourself speaking with a lilt to your voice as you sing, more than read, the words on each page. [Recommended for ages 3 to 5 years]
How to Catch a Leprechaun: How to Trick a Wee-Person! by Crystal Chandler
This is a Kindle-only version of this book, but one that will be highly entertaining to your child. The narrative takes one through the how-tos on finding and catching a leprechaun. This is a chapter book, however they are short chapters which are full of fun and light-hearted information. Don’t be surprised to see your child going on a leprechaun hunt at your next outdoor expedition after reading this. [Recommended for ages 5 – 8 years]
The Naughty Leprechaun Story, by Stephanie Hicks
This is a box set, which comes with the book and a large, double-sided gold coin. This is the tale of two leprechaun brothers who come to visit children. One brother gives treats to good children and the other leaves a trail of pranks for naughty ones. The coin is etched with the faces of the brothers, each on a separate side. Children place the coin out, choosing which side to face up, as a wish for that particular leprechaun to come visit them. It’s a fun extension to the story, which takes it further than just merely the reading of a book. This helps children decide for themselves how they wish to behave and what the consequences of their choice will give back. [Recommended for ages kindergarten and up]
The Leprechaun’s Gold, by Pamela Duncan Edwards
Two Irish harpists, one the mentor of the other, enter a competition to find out who is the best. The younger of the two takes a rather underhanded direction in an attempt to win, but he doesn’t count on a leprechaun to enter the fray, putting a kink in his plans. This story shares an important life lesson while weaving in humor and wit. [Recommended for ages 4–8 years]
