The Complete Guide to the Toy Story Series! Read Pixar's Stories Together Before Toy Story 5

March 17, 2026

In the summer of 2026, Pixar's beloved animated series returns with Toy Story 5. This new installment comes about seven years after Toy Story 4 (2019), continuing the adventures of the toy friends loved around the world. The film is scheduled to be released on June 19, 2026, and this time, the story unfolds in a world where children's attention is shifting from traditional toys to electronic devices and digital screens—bringing new challenges for the toys.

A new character, the smart tablet toy Lilypad, enters the story. As Lilypad captures children's attention, Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the rest of the toys begin to question their place and purpose. This setup reflects today's reality, where children are increasingly immersed in digital devices. Yet the heart of the Toy Story series is remains the same: What does it mean for a child to grow up?

Why Toy Story Is Special to Everyone

Superficially, Toy Story may look like a simple and fun adventure, but at its core, it is a story about growing up, saying goodbye, and beginning again. The saddest thing a toy can experience is when the child who loved it grows up and no longer plays with it. That simple idea is where Toy Story begins.

In Toy Story 3, when Andy leaves for college and passes his toys on to Bonnie, many parents are deeply moved. But Pixar's message does not focus on the sadness—it focuses on hope. Change is natural, and even after goodbyes, new stories begin.

That's why Toy Story is both an exciting fantasy for children and a nostalgic reflection for adults. The Toy Story storybooks available on PENTA also capture these meaningful moments of growth.

"A toy's only as good as the kid who loves it."
— Woody, Toy Story 2

Toy Story Stories to Read Together With Your Child

Toy Story — When a New Friend Arrives
Woody has always been Andy's favorite toy. But everything changes when Andy receives a new birthday gift: Buzz Lightyear. Afraid of losing his place, Woody competes with Buzz at first. Eventually, however, they come to understand each other and become true friends. This story is especially meaningful for children experiencing new relationships—whether it's a new friend, a sibling, or a new environment.

Toy Story 2 — The Moment of Choice
When Woody is kidnapped, Buzz and the others set out to rescue him. Along the way, Woody meets Jessie and a new group of toys. Should he stay in a museum and be admired forever, or return home to Andy? This dilemma feels familiar even to children: "I want to stay longer… but I also want to go home." Woody's choice invites children to think about what truly matters.

Toy Story | Toy Story 2 | A Roaring Adventure © Disney·Pixar

Toy Story 3 — A Real Goodbye
Andy is preparing to leave for college. Due to a misunderstanding, the toys end up at a daycare center and believe they have been abandoned. But Woody reassures them: "We're not trash." This story gently comforts children facing their first real goodbyes—graduation, moving, or changing schools.

Toy Story 4 — Finding Your Own Path
In this story, Woody begins to question his role. Once Andy's toy, he now lives with Bonnie—but struggles to find his place. Eventually, Woody chooses a new path. This reflects the moment when children begin to ask an important question: Who am I?

There are also many spin-off stories that explore everyday themes in children's lives.

Happy Buzz Day! — The Beauty of Everyday Moments
Created for the 30th anniversary of Toy Story, this story takes place after Toy Story 4. Woody, Buzz, Jessie, Forky, and Bonnie's beloved toys all return for a new adventure. It reminds us that even ordinary days spent together can be meaningful. It reminds us that even ordinary days spent together can be meaningful, and that the true value lies in cherishing the present.

Rex's Roaring Adventure — Finding Courage
In this story, Buzz Lightyear, Sheriff Woody, and Rex embark on a new adventure. Rex, the timid dinosaur, learns to face his fears with the help of his friends. For children who feel unsure of themselves, the story offers reassurance, reminding them they are not alone.

And Finally, Pixar's New Film: Toy Story 5

Toy Story 5 — Toys and(or) Technology
In Toy Story 5, the toys face a challenge unlike anything before. Children's attention is shifting from toys to tablets and digital devices. With Bonnie's new smart toy Lilypad, the toys begin to question their role once again. This story may ask deeper questions: What does play mean to children today?
And what role do toys hold in their lives?

As always, the Toy Story series will continue to celebrate the value of friendship and imagination, even in a new era. While the tools may change, the meaning of the stories and the connections they create remain the same. This idea applies to us as well: today's children experience stories not just through books, but also through all kinds of digital screens. What really matters isn't the tool they use, but the impact the story leaves on them.

That's why PENTA's vertical storybooks are designed to be more than just reading on a screen. Children can swipe through the story themselves, becoming immersed in them. We aim to create content that is both safe and meaningful for children to enjoy on digital devices. Even as technology changes, the power of a good story to spark imagination and emotion remains just as important.