how many pages in a board book
If you’ve picked up a few board books for babies or toddlers, you might have noticed they’re not the same as regular picture books. The question "how many pages in a board book" comes up a lot among parents, authors, and publishers. It’s a detail that matters—both for kids enjoying the stories and for those making or buying them. Here’s what you need to know about board book page counts.
Typical Page Counts
Most board books have between 16 and 24 pages. This range isn’t arbitrary. Publishers favor these numbers because they’re easy to produce (pages are printed in multiples of 8 due to printing processes). Some simple board books—especially those for babies—may have as few as 8 or 10 pages. Others created for toddlers sometimes go up to 30 pages, but this is less common.
Why the Page Number Matters
The page count in a board book isn’t just a technical choice. There are good reasons behind it:
- Durability: Fewer pages make it easier to keep each page thick and sturdy. Board books are meant to withstand chewing, tossing, and rough handling.
- Attention Span: Young children have short attention spans. Compact stories fit their developmental stage better.
- Cost Efficiency: Thicker pages cost more to make and ship. Fewer pages keep prices reasonable for families.
What Counts as a Page?
In printing, a “page” is one side of a sheet. So a 16-page board book has 8 thick cardboard sheets, printed on both sides. Cover pages (the outside front and back covers) are usually counted as pages too. Some publishers might start counting from the inside pages, but most include the cover.
Page Size and Structure
While talking about "how many pages in a board book," it’s also worth mentioning page size. Board books range from small (around 5 x 5 inches) to oversized, but standard sizes are common for ease of handling—and surviving toddler use. The thickness of the pages adds heft, meaning a short book doesn’t feel insubstantial.
When Longer (or Shorter) Makes Sense
There are exceptions. Touch-and-feel books, lift-the-flap books, and other novelty board books may vary from the average page count. Longer stories for older toddlers could push past 24 pages, but for the majority, keeping it short means the book remains readable and manageable.
Tips for Choosing Board Books
- Consider Age: For babies, 8–16 pages is perfect. For toddlers, up to 24 pages works well.
- Check the Story: Is it engaging but not overwhelming? Too many pages can lose a child’s interest.
- Examine the Construction: Thicker, fewer pages usually hold up better.
Bottom Line
The answer to how many pages in a board book typically falls between 16 and 24. There are good reasons for this standard: durability, suitability for young readers, and cost. Whether you’re choosing, writing, or publishing a board book, keeping within this range is usually your best bet.
Waynel Hubbardolly, the visionary founder of Make Athlete Action, is driven by a passion for empowering athletes and fitness enthusiasts with science-backed strategies for peak performance. Drawing on his experience in sports science and a lifelong dedication to fitness, Waynel created a platform that bridges the gap between cutting-edge research and practical advice. His commitment to excellence and innovation has made Make Athlete Action a trusted resource for athletes looking to boost their strength, endurance, and mental resilience, as well as anyone aiming to elevate their physical conditioning and performance.