Picture books are not just for young children and many include morals and lessons that are complex and thought provoking. My favorite pictures books are ones that inspire, teach a lesson and of course, those that make kids laugh. Below are some of my favorites for kids of all ages.
We’re All Wonders // Based on the chapter book for older readers, this book follows the same characters on another adventure with the same movement to choose kind. The chapter book and subsequent movie starring Julia Roberts are also incredible!
Can I Be Your Dog? // The sweet story of a homeless dog looking for his forever family by writing letters to everyone in the neighborhood. A great book for #adoptdontshop and dog lovers alike!
Malala’s Magic Pencil // The story of Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai’s childhood written by the winner herself.
Ada Twist, Scientist // Girl power to the max in this book that highlights Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie lives and inspires girls today to get involved and make an impact in the STEM community.
Thank You, Mr. Falker // I can’t help but tear up everytime I hear this story about the author Patricia Polacco’s own journey as a child struggling to read and the teacher who changed her life.
Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late // Mo Willem’s is one of my student’s favorites and for good reason; he brings humor and laughs to every book he writes and can even hook to most resistant of readers. I love this series for call and response to engage the listener.
Do Unto Otters // The Golden Rule of treat others the way you want to be treated taught through a cast of animal characters learning how to be new neighbors.
Strictly No Elephants // A lovable story about inclusivity and ensuring no one, even your pet elephant, is left out.
We Are In A Book // Elephant and Piggie have been on many adventures, 27 books and counting to be exact from Mo Willems. I love these characters for young readers to practice partner reading. The different colored speech bubbles allow for readers to easily take on the role of Elephant or Piggie and read back and forth throughout the book. These books are also great to practice reading with expression as they encounter all the emotions.
I Lost My Tooth // The newest book from Mo Willems and already a hit!
Her Right Foot // Great way for NYC kids to learn the story behind the Statue of Liberty as it’s told through a narrative nonfiction lense.
Those Shoes // A beautiful story to teach wants versus needs and helps to show how the “things” in life are not what’s important.
Walter The Farting Dog // A guaranteed hit with lots of laughs about a family’s dog who just can’t stop farting!
Juno Valentine & The Magical Shoes // Recently released by Instagram’s fashion director, Eva Chen, this book is all about girl power and a lovable new character named Juno’s adventures.
How To Be A Lion // Who says a duck and a lion can’t be best buds? Well some bullies in this story do and it shares their journey of courage to stand up for themselves and their friendship.
Enemy Pie // This book is a favorite for the beginning of every school year as it tells the tale of how to become friends with your “enemy” and realize that they aren’t so bad after all.
The Day You Begin // Newest release from award winning poet and author Jacqueline Woodson about courage and new beginnings.
Be Kind // “How two simple words can change the world” and what it means to be kind.
Spaghetti In A Hot Dog Bun // Everyone is unique and should all feel the courage to be exactly who they are!
The Dot // “Just make a mark and see where it takes you," author Peter Reynolds pens in this book that has inspired International Dot Day.
Press Here // An interactive and engaging book for kids of all ages.
I Wish You More // This book makes a great gift for kids and adults alike as it wishes only the best things to happen for them for special occasions such as graduations or new opportunities.
