100 best picture books

(By Ludwig Bemelmans) Ludwig Bemelmans’ iconic book follows Madeline, a brave and adventurous girl who lives in a Parisian boarding school. With its rhyming text and charming illustrations, the story highlights courage, friendship, and the beauty of childhood exploration.

(By Chris Van Allsburg) Chris Van Allsburg’s beautifully illustrated book tells the magical story of a young boy who boards a mysterious train to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. The book captures the wonder of childhood belief and the spirit of the holiday season, with a poignant message about the power of faith and imagination.

(By Richard Scarry) Cars and Trucks and Things That Go by Richard Scarry is an exciting book filled with vehicles of all shapes and sizes. From cars to trucks to airplanes, this book explores various types of transportation with playful illustrations and fun facts. Young readers will enjoy the busy, colorful scenes and the opportunity to identify all sorts of vehicles, making it an engaging and educational read.

(By Mo Willems) Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems is a hilarious story about a pigeon who desperately wants to drive a bus. The book is interactive, as the reader is asked to help keep the pigeon from driving. With its simple but expressive illustrations and comedic narrative, this book engages young readers and teaches them about boundaries and decision-making. It’s a fun, entertaining read that’s sure to get kids giggling.

(By Sandra Boynton) A fun, rhyming board book that introduces animal sounds with Boynton’s signature humor and charming illustrations. A great read-aloud choice for babies and toddlers.

(By Jean de Brunhoff) The Story of Babar by Jean de Brunhoff is the classic tale of an elephant named Babar who becomes king of the elephants after the death of his mother. Babar’s journey is one of growth, responsibility, and leadership. The story's timeless themes of bravery, kindness, and the importance of family make it a beloved classic in children’s literature.

(By Dr. Seuss) A powerful environmental fable by Dr. Seuss, The Lorax tells the story of the Once-ler, who destroys a lush forest to manufacture Thneeds, despite the warnings of the Lorax, who speaks for the trees. The book highlights the consequences of unchecked industrialization and serves as an early lesson in conservation and sustainability.

(By Max Lucado) You Are Special by Max Lucado is an inspirational story about a wooden puppet named Punchinello who struggles with feelings of inadequacy. With the help of Eli, the woodcarver, Punchinello learns that he is special just the way he is. This heartwarming tale teaches children about self-worth, acceptance, and the importance of embracing individuality.

(By Florence Ann Romano) Nanny and Me by Emiliya Ahmad and illustrated by Sara S. is a heartwarming story about the special bond between a child and their nanny. As they spend the day together, the child learns from the nanny’s wisdom and care, while they share moments of fun and laughter. The book emphasizes the nurturing relationship between caregivers and children, highlighting love, trust, and companionship. Its gentle story is comforting and relatable for young readers.

(By Virginia Lee Burton) Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton is a timeless story about a hardworking steam shovel named Mary Anne and her operator, Mike. When the new machines threaten their work, Mike and Mary Anne prove their worth by taking on a big project. This book explores themes of friendship, hard work, and change, with beautiful illustrations and a heartfelt message about the value of persistence and ingenuity.

(By Bill Martin Jr.) A lively, rhythmic alphabet book where letters race up a coconut tree, only to come crashing down. The catchy rhymes and bold, colorful illustrations make learning the ABCs fun and engaging for young readers.

(By Kate McMullan) If You Were My Bunny by Kate McMullan is a charming rhyming story about all the things a parent bunny would do if their little bunny were theirs. From hopping to snuggling, the book is a tender expression of love and affection. Its gentle language and illustrations make it a sweet bedtime story for young children.

(By Olivier Dunrea) This simple yet charming story follows Gossie, a little gosling who loves her bright red boots and wears them everywhere. When she loses them, she searches high and low until she discovers a surprising solution. With minimal text and warm illustrations, this book captures the essence of early childhood curiosity and friendship. Gossie’s story is relatable for toddlers, making it an excellent first book for independent reading.

(By Tomie dePaola) Tomie dePaola’s beloved story about a kind Italian witch, Strega Nona, who has a magical pasta pot. When her assistant, Big Anthony, misuses it, the town is overrun with pasta. The book delivers a humorous lesson about responsibility.

(By Laura Joffe Numeroff) A fun, cause-and-effect story by Laura Numeroff, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie follows a little mouse whose requests spiral into a series of increasingly elaborate demands. The book introduces young readers to sequencing and the idea of unintended consequences in a lighthearted, amusing way.

(By Margery Williams Bianco) A heartwarming tale by Margery Williams about a stuffed rabbit that longs to become real through the love of a child. The story beautifully explores the power of love, the passage of time, and the magic of childhood imagination.

(By Virginia Lee Burton) The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton tells the story of a small house in the country that eventually becomes surrounded by a growing city. The book showcases themes of change, urbanization, and nostalgia, as the little house longs to return to its peaceful countryside origins. Its detailed illustrations and poignant narrative make it a timeless story about the passage of time and the importance of place.

(By Beatrix Potter) The Tale of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle by Beatrix Potter is a classic story about a hedgehog named Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle who runs a laundry service for animals. When a little girl named Lucie visits her home, she finds herself enchanted by Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle’s kindness and dedication to her work. With its beautiful illustrations and warm-hearted narrative, the book is a delightful tale of friendship, kindness, and the simple pleasures of life.

(By Bruce Degen) Jamberry by Bruce Degen is a whimsical, rhyming story about a boy who discovers a world of jam-filled adventures with a bear. From strawberry fields to jam-filled boats, the book’s fun rhymes and vibrant illustrations make it a delightful read for young children. The repetitive, catchy text encourages participation, making it an engaging experience for readers.

(By P.D. Eastman) Go, Dog. Go! by P.D. Eastman is a fun, fast-paced book featuring colorful dogs in a variety of situations. The story follows these dogs as they go, drive, and explore, teaching concepts like opposites, colors, and movement. Its repetitive structure and simple language make it a perfect book for young readers just starting to recognize words and patterns. The lively illustrations and playful tone make it an engaging and energetic read for children.

(By Marcus Pfister) Marcus Pfister’s beautifully illustrated book about a shimmering fish who learns the value of sharing and friendship. The book’s colorful artwork and important message about generosity make it a favorite among young readers.

(By Zyrobotics) STEM Storiez is a collection of stories designed to introduce children to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts in an engaging way. With its fun characters and creative narratives, the book aims to spark curiosity about these subjects, encouraging young readers to explore STEM in an accessible and enjoyable format.

(By Beatrix Potter) The Tale of Benjamin Bunny by Beatrix Potter is a charming story about Peter Rabbit’s cousin, Benjamin Bunny, who accompanies Peter on an adventure to retrieve his clothes from Mr. McGregor’s garden. The story features the same warm-hearted characters and delightful illustrations as other tales in the Beatrix Potter collection. It’s a wonderful story of friendship, bravery, and problem-solving, perfect for young readers.

(By Alice McLerran) Roxaboxen by Alice Meloy tells the story of a group of children who create a magical, imaginary town called Roxaboxen in the desert. The book celebrates creativity, imagination, and the power of play. Its simple narrative and illustrations evoke a sense of nostalgia for childhood adventures and friendships. It’s a heartwarming story about the importance of community and shared experiences.

(By Robert Lopshire) Put Me in the Zoo by Robert Lopshire is a fun, colorful story about a mischievous animal who wants to be placed in the zoo. The animal, who can change colors, tries to convince the zoo keepers that he belongs in the zoo, but he learns that being different can be special. The book’s simple text and engaging illustrations make it a delightful read for young children, teaching them about individuality and acceptance.

(By P.D. Eastman) A heartwarming and simple story by P.D. Eastman, following a baby bird who hatches while his mother is away and embarks on a journey to find her. The book introduces young readers to themes of curiosity, identity, and the comfort of a mother’s love.

(By Robert McCloskey) Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey is a charming story about a family of ducks trying to find a home in Boston. The story follows the ducks as they navigate the busy streets and avoid obstacles on their journey to safety. With its detailed illustrations and gentle storytelling, the book teaches children about family, safety, and the importance of helping others. It’s a delightful read for young children and an enduring classic.

(By Beatrix Potter) The Complete Tales by Beatrix Potter is a collection of her beloved stories featuring animals like Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-Duck, and Squirrel Nutkin. Each tale is accompanied by her signature watercolor illustrations, bringing her enchanting characters to life. This collection is perfect for introducing children to the timeless lessons of kindness, curiosity, and the natural world.

(By Gene Zion) No Roses for Harry! by Gene Zion follows the story of Harry, a dog who receives a bouquet of roses but doesn’t like them. He tries to give the flowers away to various animals but discovers that they don’t appreciate them either. The book teaches children about acceptance, generosity, and the importance of being true to oneself.

(By Dorothy Kunhardt) Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt is an interactive and sensory-filled story that encourages children to engage with the book by touching, patting, and feeling different textures. The book follows a little girl and her bunny as they explore various activities, such as patting the bunny’s soft fur or feeling the texture of the bunny’s nose. It’s a tactile, hands-on experience that promotes sensory development in young children while creating a memorable reading experience.

(By Crockett Johnson) A whimsical story about a young boy who uses his imagination and a magical purple crayon to draw his own adventures. This book encourages creativity, problem-solving, and independent thinking.

(By P.D. Eastman) Sam and the Firefly by P.D. Eastman is a delightful story about Sam, a mischievous owl who befriends a firefly named Gus. Together, they embark on adventures that lead to amusing situations. The story teaches children about friendship, creativity, and the consequences of actions, all through humor and fun. The simple text and colorful illustrations make it a great book for early readers.

(By Richard Scarry) It’s a Busy, Busy World by Richard Scarry takes readers on a fun-filled journey around the world, showing different places and people in action. Scarry’s illustrations and playful characters make learning about various cultures, occupations, and activities exciting for young readers. The book provides a perfect introduction to global awareness and the interconnectedness of life across the world.

(By Richard Scarry) What Do People Do All Day? by Richard Scarry explores various occupations and the daily activities of different people in a busy world. With its detailed illustrations and lively characters, this book introduces children to the diverse tasks and roles that help make a community function. The book provides a great introduction to careers and daily life, making it both educational and entertaining for young readers.

(By Trina Schart Hyman) Little Red Riding Hood is the classic fairy tale about a young girl who ventures into the woods to visit her grandmother, only to encounter a sly wolf. The story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of talking to strangers and the importance of being cautious. With its timeless narrative and moral lessons, this tale remains a popular choice for children’s literature.

(By E.B. White) E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web is a touching story about friendship, love, and the cycle of life. It follows Wilbur, a runt pig who is saved from slaughter by a kind-hearted girl named Fern. However, Wilbur’s life remains at risk until he befriends Charlotte, a wise and compassionate spider who devises a plan to save him by spinning words like “Some Pig” into her web. As the story unfolds, Wilbur learns valuable lessons about friendship, kindness, and loss. The novel is deeply emotional, beautifully written, and filled with humor and wisdom. Themes of mortality and change are woven seamlessly into the narrative, making it a classic that resonates with both children and adults.

(By Richard Scarry) Richard Scarry's Busy, Busy Town is a lively, engaging book that takes readers on a tour of a bustling town filled with anthropomorphic animals. Children can explore various occupations and settings, from the post office to the bakery, learning about everyday life and the importance of community. Scarry’s intricate illustrations and attention to detail make this book a fun, educational experience for young readers.

(By Beatrix Potter) The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin by Beatrix Potter tells the story of Nutkin, a cheeky and mischievous squirrel who annoys an owl while trying to gather food. The story explores themes of curiosity, bravery, and the consequences of one’s actions. With its beautiful illustrations and gentle narrative, this book offers children both entertainment and important life lessons.

(By Dr. Seuss) Bartholomew and the Oobleck by Dr. Seuss is a quirky story about a king who desires a new kind of weather, and the resulting disaster when the Oobleck rains down upon his kingdom. Bartholomew, the protagonist, must find a way to stop the mess. The story explores themes of responsibility, the consequences of desires, and the importance of thinking before acting.

(By Anfaney Gladwin) Ballet Boy by Johanna Wright is an uplifting story that tells the journey of a boy who is passionate about ballet. Despite feeling out of place in a world where ballet is often seen as a girl’s activity, he pursues his love for dance. This story promotes self-expression, confidence, and breaking gender stereotypes. Through charming illustrations and a positive message, it encourages readers to follow their passions and be proud of who they are.

(By Norman Bridwell) Clifford’s Halloween by Norman Bridwell follows Clifford the big red dog as he joins his friends for Halloween fun. Together, they enjoy trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, and other spooky activities. This festive book offers a fun way for children to explore Halloween traditions while learning about friendship and kindness. The simple narrative and familiar characters make it a great read for young children.

(By David Shannon) A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon tells the story of a girl named Camilla who wakes up one morning with a mysterious case of stripes all over her body. As she tries to hide her stripes, she learns the importance of being true to herself. The book teaches valuable lessons about individuality, self-acceptance, and the dangers of trying to please others at the cost of personal happiness.

(By Graeme Base) Animalia by Graeme Base is a beautifully illustrated alphabet book where each page introduces a new letter of the alphabet along with detailed, fantastical scenes and hidden objects to discover. The intricate illustrations and clever wordplay make it an engaging read for children of all ages. It’s a creative and visually stimulating way to learn the alphabet and explore the animal kingdom.

(By H.A. Rey) The classic adventures of a mischievous little monkey named George, who is always getting into trouble but manages to charm his way out of it. Written by H.A. Rey, these stories encourage curiosity and problem-solving.

(By Mélanie Watt) Scaredy Squirrel by Mélanie Watt is the story of a squirrel who is terrified of the outside world and prefers to stay in his safe tree. When he is forced to venture out, he learns that there’s nothing to fear. The book is a humorous exploration of anxiety, courage, and stepping outside one’s comfort zone. Its quirky illustrations and playful narrative make it an entertaining read for children.

(By David Wiesner) Tuesday by David Wiesner is a wordless picture book that tells the story of frogs who unexpectedly begin flying on lily pads, creating a surreal adventure. As the frogs explore the world above, strange events unfold, offering readers a chance to interpret the story in their own way. The book’s stunning illustrations and unique storytelling style make it a captivating and imaginative experience for all ages.

(By Sam McBratney) A sweet and tender story about a father and son (two hares) who express their love for each other in a playful, ever-growing competition. Written by Sam McBratney, this book is a heartfelt celebration of parental love and the joy of expressing affection.

(By Bernadette Rossetti-Shustak) I Love You Through and Through by Bernadette Rossetti-Shustak is a sweet, simple story that expresses unconditional love between a parent and child. The book showcases various emotions, from happiness to sadness, and emphasizes that love remains constant, no matter the circumstances. Its gentle rhymes and soft illustrations make it a heartwarming read for young children.

(By Dr. Seuss) One of Dr. Seuss’s most beloved books, Green Eggs and Ham follows Sam-I-Am as he persistently tries to convince another character to try an unusual meal. Through humorous rhymes and repetition, the book encourages children to be open to new experiences. Its simple vocabulary and engaging rhythm make it an excellent choice for early readers.

(By Peggy Parish) Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish is the first in a beloved series about a literal-minded maid who always takes things too literally. When tasked with household chores, Amelia Bedelia misunderstands every instruction in the most comical way. Her humorous blunders are met with frustration from her employers, but they always love her for her good heart. This charming story is a fun read that teaches kids about language, humor, and the value of being kind.

(By Ezra Jack Keats) The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats is a beloved classic that captures the magic and wonder of a snowy day through the eyes of a young boy named Peter. As he ventures out into the fresh snowfall, he experiences the joy of making footprints, building a snowman, and having winter adventures. With its beautiful illustrations and universal themes of curiosity and exploration, this book resonates with children experiencing snow for the first time.

(By Wanda Gág) Millions of Cats by Wanda Gág is a charming story about an elderly couple who seek to adopt a cat, only to find themselves overwhelmed by millions of cats. As they try to choose the right one, the cats multiply, leading to a heartwarming and humorous conclusion. The book teaches children about love, abundance, and the importance of making thoughtful choices.

(By Karma Wilson) Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman is a cozy, rhythmic story about a bear who falls asleep in his cave during the winter while other animals gather to celebrate. The animals quietly join him in his cave, but Bear remains oblivious to their presence. The book's repetitive text, engaging illustrations, and themes of friendship and community make it a perfect bedtime read.

(By Dr. Seuss) Horton Hears a Who! by Dr. Seuss is a story about Horton the elephant, who discovers a tiny world living on a speck of dust. Despite being ridiculed by others, Horton is determined to protect the Whos, proving that even the smallest voices matter. This classic Seuss tale delivers an important message about tolerance, empathy, and standing up for what is right. Its whimsical rhymes and vibrant illustrations make it an enduring favorite for children and adults alike.

(By Mercer Mayer) Just Me and My Mom by Mercer Mayer is a charming tale about a little critter who spends the day with his mom. As they explore the town, the little critter’s misadventures provide both humor and a glimpse into the loving relationship between mother and child. The book’s themes of adventure, mischief, and family bonds are relatable for young readers.

(By Eric Carle) A House for Hermit Crab by Eric Carle follows the story of a hermit crab who must find a new shell to live in as he grows. As he searches for a home, he decorates his new shell with various sea creatures and objects. This beautifully illustrated book teaches children about growth, change, and the importance of creating a home where they feel comfortable and at ease.

(By Jon Stone) The Monster at the End of This Book by Jon Stone is a playful and interactive story starring Grover from Sesame Street. Grover desperately tries to stop the reader from reaching the end of the book, fearing the monster. As the story unfolds, Grover's antics and humorous pleas keep children engaged, making this a fun and exciting read. It’s a lighthearted way to teach kids about overcoming fears with humor and bravery.

(By Sandra Boynton) A rhythmic and humorous book about a shy hippopotamus watching other animals have fun, until she finally joins in. A great book about inclusivity and social confidence.

(By Martin Waddell) Owl Babies by Martin Waddell is a sweet story about three baby owls who wake up to find that their mother is gone. They are worried but find comfort in each other as they wait for her return. The gentle, reassuring tone of the story and its beautiful illustrations help children understand feelings of fear and separation while emphasizing the comfort of family and unconditional love. It’s a soothing bedtime read for young children.

(By Bill Martin Jr.) A repetitive and rhythmic book by Bill Martin Jr. and illustrated by Eric Carle, designed to introduce young children to colors and animals through a simple yet engaging format. The book’s predictability makes it a favorite for early learners.

(By Dr. Seuss) Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss is an inspiring book that encourages readers to embrace life’s adventures and challenges. With its playful language and whimsical illustrations, it celebrates the journey of life, filled with highs and lows. Dr. Seuss’s signature rhyming style provides a lighthearted yet meaningful message about perseverance, self-discovery, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. This motivational story is perfect for readers of all ages, particularly those facing new beginnings.

(By Audrey Penn) A comforting story by Audrey Penn about a young raccoon, Chester, who is nervous about starting school. His mother reassures him by giving him a special kiss on his paw, which he can hold onto whenever he misses her. The book provides a heartwarming message about love, separation, and reassurance for children experiencing new transitions.

(By Michael Eastwood) A Day in the Life of Cowboy Mike and Winston by Bonnie Farmer is a fun, action-packed story about Cowboy Mike and his dog, Winston, as they go about their daily work on a ranch. From feeding animals to helping out around the farm, the book showcases the hard work and joy of life on a ranch. Through simple text and vibrant illustrations, children learn about ranch life and teamwork, all while enjoying a fun adventure with Cowboy Mike and Winston.

(By Beatrix Potter) The Tale of Tom Kitten by Beatrix Potter follows the story of a mischievous kitten named Tom and his sisters as they are dressed up by their mother in fine clothes. Tom and his siblings play and get dirty, showing that playful behavior can sometimes lead to chaos. The book's charming illustrations and gentle narrative teach lessons about manners, fun, and the unpredictability of childhood.

(By Nancy E. Shaw) A humorous, rhyming story about a group of clumsy sheep who go on a bumpy jeep ride. The short, simple text and playful illustrations make it a fun and engaging early reader.

(By Janell Cannon) A beautifully illustrated story by Janell Cannon about a baby fruit bat who is separated from her mother and raised by a family of birds. The book explores themes of identity, belonging, and friendship while celebrating differences between species.

(By Beatrix Potter) The Tale of Two Bad Mice by Beatrix Potter is a mischievous story about two mice who steal food from a dollhouse, only to face consequences when their plans go awry. The story highlights themes of mischief, consequences, and the importance of respecting others. Potter’s detailed illustrations and gentle humor make it a classic tale of playful adventures.

(By Marilyn Sapienza) Stone Soup is a classic folktale that tells the story of a group of hungry travelers who convince a village to share their food to make a delicious stone soup. The story teaches the value of sharing, community, and cooperation. Its simple structure and universal themes make it an ideal read for children to understand the importance of generosity and working together.

(By Eric Carle) The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle is a simple, repetitive story about a spider who works tirelessly to spin her web, despite being interrupted by various animals. With its rhythmic text and vivid illustrations, the book teaches children about focus, persistence, and the wonders of nature. It’s a great story for teaching patience and dedication while providing educational insights about spiders.

(By Julia Donaldson) The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson is a fun, imaginative story about a mouse who outsmarts a series of dangerous animals by inventing a fearsome creature called the Gruffalo. When the mouse encounters the Gruffalo for real, he uses his wit to avoid danger. The book’s clever rhymes and engaging illustrations make it an exciting, playful read that teaches courage, cleverness, and the power of storytelling.

(By Harry Allard) Miss Nelson Is Missing! by Harry Allard is a humorous story about a kind and gentle teacher, Miss Nelson, who goes missing, leaving her class to be taught by the strict and terrifying substitute teacher, Viola Swamp. The children quickly realize how much they miss their original teacher and learn valuable lessons about respect and appreciation. The book’s playful tone and twist make it an entertaining and educational read for young readers.

(By Mercer Mayer) Just a Mess by Mercer Mayer is part of the Little Critter series, where the protagonist gets into all sorts of trouble, making a mess of things. The book uses humor to show the challenges of cleaning up and taking responsibility for one’s actions. It teaches children about tidiness, consequences, and the importance of trying to do the right thing.

(By Margaret Wise Brown) A soothing bedtime classic by Margaret Wise Brown, Goodnight Moon follows a young bunny as he says goodnight to everything in his cozy room. With its rhythmic, repetitive text and soft illustrations, the book creates a calming nighttime ritual for young children.

(By Shel Silverstein) Shel Silverstein’s poignant story follows the lifelong relationship between a boy and a selfless tree that gives everything—its apples, branches, and trunk—to make the boy happy. The book explores themes of unconditional love, self-sacrifice, and human nature’s tendency to take more than it gives. Its bittersweet message has sparked discussions on generosity, relationships, and environmentalism.

(By Robert Munsch) This touching story by Robert Munsch follows a mother’s unconditional love for her son as he grows from infancy to adulthood. With its emotional narrative and repetitive lullaby-like refrain, Love You Forever has become a beloved bedtime story that resonates deeply with parents and children alike.

(By Judith Viorst) Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst is a humorous story about a boy named Alexander who has a day where everything seems to go wrong. From bad hair days to problems at school, Alexander’s day spirals downward, and he wishes he could move to Australia. Through its relatable and entertaining story, the book teaches children about frustration, resilience, and the understanding that bad days are a part of life.

(By Peggy Rathmann) Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann is a charming and minimalistic bedtime story about a zookeeper who says good night to the animals, unaware that the mischievous gorilla is letting them out of their cages. As the animals quietly follow the zookeeper home, the story builds suspense and humor. Its gentle illustrations and simple text make it a perfect read for young children ready for bedtime.

(By David Wiesner) Flotsam by David Wiesner is a wordless picture book about a boy who finds an old underwater camera washed ashore. As he develops the film, he discovers a world of strange and magical sea creatures. The book’s intricate, detailed illustrations tell an imaginative story, allowing children to interpret the narrative and create their own meaning. It’s a beautiful exploration of curiosity and the mysteries of the ocean.

(By Barbara Cooney) Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney tells the story of a woman named Alice Rumphius who fulfills her dreams of traveling the world and spreading beauty by planting lupine flowers wherever she goes. The book teaches children about following one’s dreams and making the world a better place through small acts of kindness. The story’s gentle pace and beautiful illustrations inspire hope and personal growth.

(By Dr. Seuss) The Foot Book by Dr. Seuss is a playful exploration of feet in all shapes and sizes. With its rhythmic text and silly illustrations, the book takes young readers on a fun journey as they discover different types of feet and what they can do. It’s an entertaining and educational way to help children learn about opposites and body awareness.

(By Maurice Sendak) Maurice Sendak’s groundbreaking picture book follows Max, a mischievous boy who is sent to bed without supper and journeys to an island of wild creatures. Crowned their king, Max eventually realizes the importance of home and love. With its dreamlike illustrations and deep emotional themes, the book remains a masterpiece of children’s literature.

(By Ingri d'Aulaire) D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths by Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire is a beautifully illustrated collection of Greek myths, introducing children to the gods, goddesses, and heroes of ancient Greece. The book simplifies complex stories for young readers, making it an accessible introduction to mythology, with captivating illustrations and detailed storytelling.

(By Dr. Seuss) Yertle the Turtle and Other Stories by Dr. Seuss is a collection of three whimsical tales, each with a moral lesson. The title story features Yertle, a turtle who desires to rule over everything, only to be taught a lesson in humility. Other stories in the collection explore themes like greed, kindness, and fairness. As with all of Dr. Seuss’s books, these tales are filled with lively rhymes, creative characters, and important life lessons for young readers.

(By Virginia Lee Burton) Katy and the Big Snow by Virginia Lee Burton tells the story of Katy, a big red plow truck who is tasked with clearing the snow from the streets during a heavy winter storm. The book celebrates hard work, perseverance, and the importance of helping others in times of need. Its detailed illustrations and engaging storyline make it a perfect winter read for children.

(By Verna Aardema) Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears by Verna Aardema is an African folk tale that explains why mosquitoes buzz in people’s ears. The story is filled with animal characters and uses a chain of events to demonstrate how one action can have unintended consequences. It teaches children about cause and effect while offering a fun and entertaining narrative.

(By Anfaney Gladwin) Boring Bob by Orin L. Latham follows the story of Bob, a boy who feels like his life is dull and unexciting. However, when Bob starts paying attention to the little details around him, he discovers a world full of adventure. The book encourages children to look beyond the ordinary and find excitement in everyday life. It’s a great story about perspective and the joy of discovering the extraordinary in the seemingly mundane.

(By Jan Brett) The Mitten by Jan Brett is a heartwarming story about a boy who loses his mitten in the snow, only for a series of animals to crawl inside to stay warm. The book’s beautiful illustrations and repetitive structure make it an enjoyable read for young children. The story teaches themes of cooperation, kindness, and the power of sharing.

(By Audrey Wood) The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry, and The Big Hungry Bear by Don & Audrey Wood is a delightful story about a mouse who tries to keep his strawberry safe from a hungry bear. The book’s fun, repetitive text and colorful illustrations make it an engaging and interactive story for young readers. It’s a great way to introduce concepts of sharing and problem-solving.

(By Olivier Dunrea) Gossie & Gertie by Olivier Dunrea tells the story of two little goslings, Gossie and Gertie, who are best friends. Gossie loves to wear her red boots, but Gertie doesn’t understand why. The story is a heartwarming tale of friendship, individuality, and the importance of being yourself. With its charming illustrations and simple text, it’s a perfect read for young children.

(By Dr. Seuss) Hop On Pop by Dr. Seuss is a playful collection of rhymes that introduces young readers to simple words and sentences. With its engaging illustrations and fun wordplay, it invites children to jump into reading by interacting with the text in a playful and imaginative way. Though simple, the book’s joyful language and lively rhythm make it an entertaining and accessible introduction to early reading.

(By Eric K. Williams) Edric the Hatchling Gryphon by Sean S. Van Praag follows the journey of Edric, a young gryphon, as he embarks on a quest to discover his true nature. Along the way, he learns valuable lessons about courage, self-discovery, and the importance of embracing one’s unique qualities. The book’s magical setting and character-driven story make it an exciting read for young fantasy lovers.

(By Jennifer Carson) Dragons Don’t Dance Ballet by Diane D. O'Neill is a whimsical story about a young dragon who dreams of becoming a ballet dancer. Despite being told that dragons don’t dance ballet, the dragon follows his passion and practices diligently, showing that determination and self-belief can help achieve the impossible. This inspiring story teaches children about perseverance, self-confidence, and breaking stereotypes.

(By Dr. Seuss) Dr. Seuss’s classic tale of mischief and mayhem follows a tall, mischievous cat who turns a dull, rainy day into an adventure for two bored children. With its rhythmic verse and simple vocabulary, it’s an excellent book for beginner readers.

(By Beatrix Potter) Beatrix Potter’s classic story follows the mischievous Peter Rabbit as he sneaks into Mr. McGregor’s garden despite warnings from his mother. Filled with charming illustrations and gentle lessons about curiosity and consequences, this timeless tale continues to captivate young readers.

(By Stephen Cosgrove) Leo the Lop by Joe Hurd is a heartwarming story about Leo, a rabbit who is born with lop ears, and the challenges he faces in a world where other rabbits have more "normal" ears. Leo learns to embrace his uniqueness and discovers that his lopsided ears are a special part of who he is. The book teaches children the importance of self-acceptance and appreciating what makes them different.

(By Dr. Seuss) A playful and silly Dr. Seuss book filled with rhymes, wordplay, and nonsense characters, designed to introduce young readers to language, counting, and opposites. Its fun, repetitive structure makes it perfect for early reading.

(By Graeme Base) The Eleventh Hour by Graeme Base is an intricate mystery story about a group of animals who gather for a birthday party and discover that a feast has been stolen. As they work together to solve the mystery, the book’s detailed illustrations and challenging clues engage young readers in the investigation. This book fosters problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and teamwork.

(By Stan Berenstain) The Berenstain Bears and the Spooky Old Tree by Stan and Jan Berenstain follows the bear cubs as they explore a spooky old tree at night. The story mixes adventure and light-hearted scares, teaching children about bravery and dealing with fear. The Berenstain Bears’ comforting family dynamics and engaging storyline make this book a great choice for young readers.

(By Beatrix Potter) The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck by Beatrix Potter follows the story of a naive duck who is tricked by a fox into thinking he will help her find a safe place to lay her eggs. The story teaches children about trusting others and being cautious of deceit. With its charming illustrations and gentle narrative, it remains a classic in the Beatrix Potter series.

(By Eric Carle) This beloved classic follows a hungry caterpillar as it eats its way through various foods before transforming into a beautiful butterfly. The interactive die-cut pages and vibrant illustrations help teach counting, days of the week, and healthy eating habits.

(By Margaret Wise Brown) The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown is a tender story about a little bunny who dreams of running away, only to find that his mother will always be there to find him. The gentle dialogue between the bunny and his mother illustrates the unconditional love and protection that a parent offers. Through simple yet profound words and illustrations, this book reassures children of their parents’ steadfast love and care.