As babies pass the infant stage, they like to participate in the books. Now look for books that let a child do something. For instance a book might ask a child to point to his eyes, clap his hands or meow like a cat. Pictures should be attractive to a little one and should make it easy for a parent to practice language skills. Bedtime books should be sleepy and quiet and can have more words and more subdued pictures.
Preschoolers can handle more sophisticated stories.
Stories should still be related to the life of a preschooler or be accessible in his imagination. Look over the text carefully. Some books that are supposed to be for preschoolers are frightening. Know the child. Larger, sturdy books make it easier for a preschooler to practice turning pages.