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Diwali children’s books are a wonderful way to learn about or observe a holiday that is recognized by millions of people all around the world.

Diwali is a Hindu festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil. It’s also called the “Festival of Lights” because part of the celebrations include lighting candles and clay lamps all over the house, symbolizing the light within. The festivities are spread out over several days filled with family, food and joy.

When is Diwali 2025?

For 2025, the main day of Diwali—Lakshmi Puja—is expected to fall on either Monday, 20 October, or Tuesday, 21 October, depending on the exact timing of the Amavasya Tithi (lunar day).

According to Almanac.com, Diwali begins on the darkest day, the night of the new moon. 

10 Diwali children’s books to add to your child’s story time rotation

Children’s books on Diwali cover all of the merry aspects of this special occasion. These stories are engaging and beautifully illustrated for little ones. Cultivating a diverse library for your kiddos can start with honoring the different traditions around the world. Check out these Diwali picture books that can help foster a love of different cultures and understanding in your child.

baby's first diwali book

Familiar favorites to mark the tradition and bright images create an engaging board book for little ones.

Ages: 0-2

diwali lights book

Beautiful images and lyrical prose come together in this lovely board book.

Ages: 0-2

diwali book

Learn alongside your little one with this charming board book teaches all about the magic of the season.

Ages: 0-4

5 days of diwali book

Maya, Neal and their cute little squirrel are learning about five days of festivities in this engaging picture book.

Ages: 2-6

archie celebrates diwali book

Archie invites her friends to her family’s annual Diwali party in this picture book that teaches little ones all about the festival.

Ages: 3-7

shubh diwali book

Read along as the characters light the lamps and get ready to ring in the new year, in this book that celebrates the Festival of Lights.

Ages: 4-7

Rama and the Demon King An Ancient Tale From India - Motherly

A beautifully illustrated retelling of the classic Ramayana story, highlighting the triumph of good over evil—central to Diwali celebrations.

Ages: 4-8

binny's diwali book

Binny shares all of the sweetness of her family’s traditions with her classmates in this lovely children’s book on Diwali.

Ages: 4-8

the light within you

Diya is excited to be back in India, visiting her grandmother and preparing for Diwali together. But all too soon the trip will come to end and Diya will have to face saying goodbye.

Ages: 4-8

simba's first diwali

Simba was recently adopted by a family that celebrates Diwali and now he is about to experience his first festival. Read along as this little pup has one grand Diwali adventure.

Ages: 3 – 6

the best diwali

In this heartwarming tale of sibling love, Ariana and Rafi are excited to celebrate Diwali with their family. Ariana can’t wait to join in on family holiday traditions and it’ll be the best one yet if her little brother doesn’t get in the way.

Ages: 4 – 6

Amma, Tell Me About Diwali!

This engaging picture book follows a curious child asking questions about Diwali, while the mother shares traditions, stories, and the meaning behind the festival.

Ages: 5-9

Lets Learn About Ramayana The Story of Diwali - Motherly

Join Maya, Neel, and their playful squirrel Chintu as they hear the dazzling story of King Ram, Queen Sita, and the ten-headed demon Ravan. This colorful retelling of the Ramayana introduces children to the epic tale behind Diwali, highlighting the triumph of good over evil.

Ages: 5-9

A version of this post was published October 10, 2022. It has been updated.