Last month, I shared a list of picture books that kidlit editors frequently mention, and I got a lot of nice notes about it! So, I’m bringing back the concept—this time with insights from some of the wonderful literary agents who are friends of the blog.
I asked four agents to name a picture book they often reference when talking to clients or writers about what makes a story shine. Each book showcases qualities that agents admire, from compelling narratives to unforgettable art. While I’m keeping their names private to avoid any unintended favoritism, their thoughtful feedback is reflected in the commentary below.
If the language is in quotation marks, it’s directly from the agents. The rest is from me. Enjoy!
Julian Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
Why Agents Love It:
- Economy of Text: “This book is proof that less can truly be more. Every word is purposeful, and the space between the lines lets the illustrations tell so much of the story.”
- Celebration of Individuality: Julian’s journey of self-expression is told with tenderness and authenticity, making it a standout example of how inclusive stories can feel universal without being preachy. “It’s the kind of book that shows you don’t need to explain everything—sometimes the best stories trust the reader to feel the message.”
- Art That Transports You: The lush, painterly illustrations are a visual feast. “Every page feels like stepping into Julian’s world, and the quiet magic of the art lingers long after you close the book.”
Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora
Why Agents Love It:
- Timeless Themes: Omu’s generosity and the community’s gratitude create a feel-good story that celebrates kindness and connection. “It’s one of those books that feels like it’s been around forever—and I mean that as the highest compliment.”
- Unique Art Style: Mora’s collage illustrations are rich, textured, and vibrant. “There’s a warmth and energy to the artwork that makes every page feel alive. You can almost smell the stew simmering!”
- Perfect for Read-Alouds: With its rhythmic, repetitive structure, this book practically begs to be read aloud. “The storytelling cadence makes it a go-to for libraries and classrooms—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.”
The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
Why Agents Love It:
- A Universal Yet Personal Theme: This book speaks to anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t belong. “It’s a quiet powerhouse of a story—one that gives kids (and adults) permission to embrace their differences and share their truths.”
- Lyrical Text: Woodson’s poetic language lends the story an emotional depth that lingers long after the last page. “The writing is so lyrical and beautiful, you almost want to read it aloud just to hear the words again.”
- Stunning Illustrations: López’s bold, vibrant illustrations perfectly complement the text, capturing the emotions of the characters and drawing readers into the story. “The interplay between the words and art is magical—this is what picture books are all about.”
We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins
Why Agents Love It:
- Humor with Heart: This hilarious story about a dinosaur learning to navigate the social challenges of school strikes the perfect balance between funny and heartfelt. “It’s laugh-out-loud funny, but it also sneaks in such a sweet message about kindness and empathy.”
- Relatable Concept: Starting school is a major milestone, and this book cleverly addresses first-day jitters in a way that feels fresh and engaging. “It’s such a smart take on school anxiety—familiar, but with a totally unexpected twist.”
- Lasting Appeal: Its humor and relatability ensure that it’s a favorite for both kids and adults. “The kind of book parents don’t mind reading over and over—and believe me, that matters.”
If you’re a picture book creator, take note of what makes these books shine—they might just inspire your next project!