St. Patrick’s Day is a time for shamrocks, leprechauns, and a little bit of magic! If you’re looking for the perfect way to celebrate with your kids, what better way than by diving into a book filled with Irish charm and fun traditions?

Whether you’re reading at home or in the classroom, these 13 must-read St. Patrick’s Day books for kids will bring the luck of the Irish right to your bookshelf!

1. Silly McGilly – Eileen Cowley, Victoria Coffey, and Michelle Dougherty

Silly McGilly is a book about a mischievous little leprechaun who loves to play tricks leading up to St. Patrick’s Day! This book comes with a plush doll that families and teachers can use to bring the tradition to life. It’s an interactive book that encourages children to embrace creativity and imagination.

Pros:
✅ Fun and interactive with a plush toy
✅ Great for families and classrooms
✅ Encourages a new St. Patrick’s Day tradition

Cons:

• Best for kids! (preschool to elementary)

How It Compares:
If you’re looking for a hands-on experience, Silly McGilly is a fantastic choice. It brings St. Patrick’s Day to life in a way most other books on this list don’t. It’s similar to The Elf on the Shelf, but for St. Patrick’s Day!

Our Opinion:
If you’re planning family traditions, this book is a must-have! It’s not just a story but a whole experience that kids will look forward to every year.

👉 Looking for other interactive books for kids? Check out our guide on St. Patrick’s Day books with interactive elements.

---

2. How to Catch a Leprechaun – Adam Wallace

Summary:
A favorite among kids, this book follows a group of clever children as they set up elaborate traps to catch a sneaky leprechaun. But can they really catch one? The rhyming text and vibrant illustrations make it an exciting read!

Pros:
✅ Fun and fast-paced
✅ Great for STEM learning and creativity (trap-building!)
✅ Bright, eye-catching illustrations

Cons:
❌ The ending may frustrate kids who really want to “catch” the leprechaun
❌ Some parents might find it a bit too simple

How It Compares:
If your child loves engineering or problem-solving, this book is a perfect pick. It pairs well with Silly McGilly, which also features leprechaun mischief but in a more interactive way.

Our Opinion:
It’s a super fun read, but don’t be surprised if your child insists on setting up their own leprechaun trap after reading it!

👉 If your child enjoys exciting, adventure-filled books, check out our list of the best adventure books for boys ages 6-8 and best adventure books for girls.

---

3. Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland – Tomie dePaola

Summary:
A fantastic introduction to the real St. Patrick, this book tells the story of his life and the myths surrounding him in a way that’s easy for kids to understand.

Pros:
✅ Great for teaching real history
✅ Engaging illustrations
✅ Perfect for older kids interested in learning

Cons:
❌ May not be as exciting for younger kids who prefer fantasy
❌ More informative than playful

How It Compares:
While other books on this list focus on leprechauns and mischief, this one is a historical look at the real St. Patrick. It’s great for kids who want to learn about Irish culture rather than just have fun.

Our Opinion:
If you’re looking for an educational read, this book is a solid pick. It’s a great addition to your child’s home library if you want a mix of fun and learning.

👉 Want more classic books that belong in every child’s library? Check out our guide to must-have books for a child’s first library.

📖 How to Choose the Right St. Patrick’s Day Book

With so many great choices, how do you pick the best book for your child? Consider these factors:

1. Age & Reading Level – Books like The Itsy Bitsy Leprechaun are perfect for toddlers, while Fiona’s Luck is better for older kids.
2. Interactivity – Want something hands-on? Silly McGilly comes with a plush doll!
3. Education vs. Fun – Books like Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland teach history, while How to Catch a Leprechaun is pure fun.
4. Themes – Some books focus on leprechaun mischief, while others tell classic Irish folktales.

👉 For more book recommendations based on age and reading level, check out our guide on [how to find age-appropriate books for your child](https://sillymcgilly.com/how-to-find-age-

Renowned Illustrators

Renowned illustrators bring a unique touch to St. Patrick’s Day books, making them a visual delight for children. For instance, Tomie dePaola, a beloved children’s book author and illustrator, has created several books with beautiful illustrations that celebrate Irish culture and folklore. His book “Jamie O’Rourke and the Big Potato” is a classic tale featuring his signature artistic style, which combines vibrant colors and expressive characters.

Note that books illustrated by well-known artists often have a timeless appeal, making them cherished additions to any child’s library. The quality of the illustrations can make a significant difference in how the story is perceived and enjoyed. For more on finding age-appropriate books for your child, consider this comprehensive guide.