Picture Book List: 15 Books About Astronomy

Calling all stargazers and curious minds!

With Spring Astronomy Day approaching on May 3, 2025—a day dedicated to bringing astronomy to the people—​it’s the perfect time to explore the wonders of the cosmos with your little ones. We’ve curated a stellar collection of 15 picture books that illuminate the mysteries of space, stars, and planets, igniting curiosity and wonder in young readers.

So grab a blanket, step outside under the night sky, or cozy up indoors, and let these stories launch your imaginations into the universe!

If I missed your favorite picture book that’s out of this world, drop it in the comments!


A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars by Seth Fishman, illustrated by Isabel Greenberg (May 2020)

From Goodreads: “Did you know that the earth is covered in three trillion trees? And that seven billion people weigh about the same as ten quadrillion ants? Our world is full of constantly changing numbers, from a hundred billion trillion stars in space to thirty-​seven billion rabbits on Earth. Can you imagine that many of anything?

The playful illustrations from New York Times–bestselling artist Isabel Greenberg and the friendly, straightforward voice of author Seth Fishman illuminate some of the biggest numbers in the universe—a hundred billion trillion stars—and the smallest—one unique and special YOU. Here is a book for story time, for science time, for math time, for bedtime, and all the times in between.

Perfect for curious children, classrooms eager for STEM content, and readers who have devoured Ada Twist, Scientist and How Much Is a Million?

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–7 years

A Moon of My Own by Jennifer Rustgi, illustrated by Ashley White (September 2016)

From Goodreads: “An imaginative young girl travels the world with her faithful companion, the moon. In her enchanted adventure she visits all seven continents while the moon goes through its cycle of phases as portrayed in silhouetted art. “Explore More” sections for kids and adults offer information and activities on phases of the moon and other aspects of astronomy and geography.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–10 years

Astro Girl by Ken Wilson-​Max (November 2021)

From Goodreads: “The stars are the limit for a little girl who acts out her wish to be an astronaut — inspired by a very special person.

Astrid has loved the stars and space for as long as she can remember. “I want to be an astronaut!” she says to everyone who will listen. While her mama is away, Astrid and her papa have fun acting out the challenges an astronaut faces on a space mission — like being in zero gravity (“I can do that all day long!” she says), eating food from a kind of tube, and doing science experiments with the help of cookie sheets. When at last it’s time to meet Mama at the air base, Astrid wears her favorite space T‑shirt to greet her. But where exactly has Mama been? Channeling a sense of childlike delight, Ken Wilson-​Max brings space travel up close for young readers and offers an inspiring ending.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

Bright Sky, Starry City by Uma Krishnaswami, illustrated by Aimée Sicuro (May 2015)

From Goodreads: “A little girl and her father have an opportunity to appreciate the wonders of the night sky. Phoebe helps her dad set up telescopes on the sidewalk outside his store. It’s a special night ― Saturn and Mars are going to appear together in the sky. But will Phoebe be able to see them with all the city lights? Raindrops begin to fall, followed by lightning and thunder. Phoebe is filled with disappointment as she and her father hurry inside to wait out the storm. But suddenly the power fails and then, amazingly, the rain and clouds disappear. Phoebe and her dad and all kinds of people spill into the street. And there, in the bright night sky, the splendor of the planets and a multitude of stars are revealed for all to see. An illustrated afterword includes information about the solar system, planetary conjunctions and rings, moons, telescopes and light pollution. A glossary and recommended further reading are also included.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 6–9 years

Curiosity: The Story of a Mars Rover by Markus Motum (March 2018)

From Goodreads: “Discover the incredible story of the search for life on Mars, told from the unique perspective of Curiosity, the Mars Rover sent to explore the red planet.

Markus Motum’s stylish illustrations and diagrams reveal how a robot travelled 350,000,000 miles to explore a planet where no human has ever been.”

  • 56 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–9 years

The Fly Who Flew to Space by Lauren Sánchez (September 2024)

From Goodreads: “Lauren Sánchez, Emmy Award-​winning journalist, pilot, and philanthropist, takes readers on a high-​flying space adventure with Flynn the Fly in her picture book debut.Bold and inquisitive, Flynn is a little fly with big aspirations. School is tough, and it’s all too easy to be distracted by the rocket company down the road–especially while daydreaming about becoming an astronaut! One day while exploring, Flynn flies aboard a rocket that suddenly takes off! Follow Flynn on an exciting journey to space to learn more about our precious planet—from amazing natural wonders like the Amazon rainforest, to the atmosphere that protects it all. After all, big dreams and a curious mind can lead to the most amazing discoveries! With a book jacket that doubles as a glow-​in-​the dark poster, this engaging picture book from debut author and Emmy-​award winner, Lauren Sánchez, features exquisitely detailed illustrations by Clio-​award winner, Raleigh Stewart, and introduces important STEAM concepts. Encouraging exploration and conservation, Sánchez—and Flynn—will have little readers reaching for the stars.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–7 years

Go for the Moon: A Rocket, a Boy, and the First Moon Landing by Chris Gall (June 2019)

From Goodreads: “Written and illustrated by Chris Gall, Go for the Moon! captures the fascinating detail and inspiring adventure of the moon landing. It is a captivating celebration of one of humankind’s greatest technical achievements and most extraordinary feats of exploration.

The Apollo 11 astronauts have prepared carefully for their attempt to be the first men to land on the moon. The young narrator of this book has prepared carefully, he explains the design of the spacecraft, the flight from the earth to the moon, and the drama of touching down–while shadowing the astronaut’s voyage with one of his own.”

  • 48 pages
  • Reading Age: 5–8 years

How to Be on the Moon by Viviane Schwarz (June 2019)

From Goodreads: “In the follow-​up to How to Find Gold, best friends Anna and Crocodile are going on another intrepid adventure — this time, to the moon.

It’s almost impossible to get to the moon. It’s out in space, which is dark and empty, and it’s very far away. If Anna and Crocodile are going to make it to the moon, they’ll need some special skills, like being able to do math and having a lot of patience. They’ll also need to build a rocket. Not to mention the sandwiches for the journey. Luckily, when Anna and Crocodile put their minds together, nothing can stand in their way. Full of the same cheerful charm that made How to Find Gold so endearing, Viviane Schwarz’s pitch-​perfect text and wonderfully colorful illustrations launch this story off the page in a true celebration of curiosity and the magic of imaginative play.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 2–5 years

Just Right: Searching for the Goldilocks Planet by Curtis Manley, illustrated by Jessica Lanan (January 2019)

From Goodreads: “Do you wonder
if humans
are the only beings
who wonder
if they are alone
in the universe?

Our sun is a star.
In the night sky are all kinds of stars,
and orbiting those stars
are planets like the ones in our own solar system.

Could those planets have life
like we do on Earth?

Planet Earth is not too big,
not too small, not too hot,
and not too cold. It’s just right.
Our very own Goldilocks planet .…

Follow a young girl
as she explores these questions
in this gorgeous book about the wondrous search
for another Goldilocks planet.”

  • 48 pages
  • Reading Age: 5–9 years

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed, illustrated by Stasia Burrington (January 2018)

From Goodreads: “Inspired by the life of the first African American woman to travel in space, Mae Jemison.

When Little Mae was a child, she dreamed of dancing in space. She imagined herself surrounded by billions of stars, floating, gliding, and discovering.

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–6 years

Pluto Gets the Call by Adam Rex, illustrated by Laurie Keller (November 2019)

From Goodreads: “Pluto gets a call from Earth telling him he isn’t a planet anymore, so he sets out on a journey through the solar system to find out why in this funny and fact-​filled romp that’s perfect for fans of The Scrambled States of America .

Pluto loves being a planet. That is, until the day he gets a call from some Earth scientists telling him he isn’t a planet anymore! You probably wanted to meet a real planet, huh? So, Pluto takes the reader on a hilarious and informative journey through the solar system to introduce the other planets and commiserate about his situation along the way. Younger readers will be so busy laughing over Pluto’s interactions with the other planets, asteroids, moons, and even the sun, they won’t even realize just how much they’re learning about our solar system!”

  • 48 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–7 years

Rocket Says Look Up! by Nathan Bryon, illustrated by Dapo Adeola (June 2019)

From Goodreads: “Meet Rocket–a plucky aspiring astronaut intent on getting her community to LOOK UP! from what they’re doing and reach for the stars in this auspicious debut picture book. Honored as a Chicago Public Library 2019 Best of the Best Book!A comet will be visible tonight, and Rocket wants everyone to see it with her–even her big brother, Jamal, whose attention is usually trained on his phone or video games. Rocket’s enthusiasm brings neighbors and family together to witness a once-​in-​a-​lifetime sighting. Perfect for fans of Ada Twist, Scientist and Cece Loves Science–Rocket Says Look Up! will inspire readers of all ages to dream big as it models Rocket’s passion for science and infectious curiosity.Author Nathan Bryon, an actor and screenwriter, and Dapo Adeola, a community-​minded freelance illustrator, bring their fresh talents, passion, and enthusiasm to the picture book medium.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 2–4 years

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star by Jane Cabrera (September 2023)

From Goodreads: “A favorite lullaby becomes a celebration of love in this lushly illustrated version featuring animals from all over the world.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 1–3 years

Where to Hide a Star by Oliver Jeffers (October 2024)

From Goodreads: “World-​renowned artist and picture book creator Oliver Jeffers brings to life an endearing story about the magic of friendship—and sharing what brings us joy.Celebrate twenty years of The Boy in this highly anticipated new adventure from the internationally bestselling picture book creator of Lost and Found Oliver Jeffers! Once there was a boy who would often play hide-​and-​seek with his friends the star and the penguin. The star was always easy to find, but one day it went missing. So, the boy radioed the Martian for help, and soon found himself on an exciting spaceship rescue mission to the North Pole! But there, he discovered that he wasn’t the only one who had always dreamed of having a star as a friend …The out-​of-​this-​world, long-​awaited sequel to the much-​loved Boy stories, loved all around the world—now introducing a brand-​new character!”

  • 48 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

You Are the First Kid on Mars by Patrick O’Brien (May 2009)

From Goodreads: “As we look back to the beginnings of the space race, 2009 is also the year for looking forward to humankind’s next step toward the stars.In the spirit of books that once imagined colonies on the moon, Patrick O’Brien has created a unique look at your first trip to Mars. Using the most up-​to-​date designs and theories of what it will take to establish a base on Mars, you are off on an incredible journey, over 35 million miles to the red planet. Filled with details, and vividly brought to life, this is an adventure that you are never going to forget.”

  • 48 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

Only Picture Books’ “24 Favorite Picture Books of 2024”

Well, 2024 is officially in the rearview mirror! That means I’ve had a whole year to delve into the delightful stacks of picture books published this past year, and I’m thrilled to share my favorites with you.

For those unfamiliar with OPB, I select books based on the following:

  • Books that have heart.
  • Books that resonate.
  • Books that are skillfully done.
  • Books that matter.

But to earn a spot on the “Best of 2024” list, a book needs to go above and beyond. This year, I was particularly drawn to books with these qualities:

  • A Unique Perspective: Books that offer a fresh way of seeing the world, whether it’s through an unusual narrative voice, an unexpected theme, or a groundbreaking artistic style.
  • Emotional Resonance: Stories that tap into the depths of human emotion, sparking empathy, understanding, and connection in readers of all ages.
  • Lyrical Language: Books with a musicality to their words, where the rhythm and flow of the language enhance the story’s impact.
  • Artistic Brilliance: Illustrations that not only complement the text but also tell their own story, captivating the eye and enriching the reading experience.
  • Lasting Impact: Books that stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page, prompting reflection, conversation, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

In no particular order (except alphabetical, for the sake of organization), here are OPB’s standout picture books of 2024. As always, I’m including my signature 5‑word reviews for each title, along with a link to the book’s Goodreads page.

Of course, this list is just a snapshot of the many wonderful picture books published in 2024. If I missed your favorite, please share it in the comments.

Now, let’s dive into the books!


Ahoy!
Author: Sophie Blackall
Illustrator: Sophie Blackall
Anne Schwartz Books
2 April 2024
48 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Parent-​child hijinks spark comedic magic.

Goodreads Reviews


All That Grows
Author: Jack Wong
Illustrator: Jack Wong
Groundwood Books
5 March 2024
32 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Gentle exploration roots lifelong curiosity.

Goodreads Reviews


All the Books
Author: Hayley Rocco
Illustrator: John Rocco
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
1 October 2024
48 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Warm ode to libraries’ wonders.

Goodreads Reviews


Built to Last
Author: Minh Lê 
Illustrator: Dan Santat
Knopf Books for Young Readers
30 April 2024
40 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Creative chaos builds unbreakable friendship.

Goodreads Reviews


Clever Crow
Author: Chris Butterworth
Illustrator: Olivia Lomenech Gill
Candlewick
9 July 2024
32 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Witty crow world wonders–lovely.

Goodreads Reviews


Comet Chaser: The True Cinderella Story of Caroline Herschel, the First Professional Woman Astronomer
Author: Pamela S. Turner
Illustrator: Vivien Mildenberger
Chronicle Books
5 March 2024
60 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Persistence crafts a stellar legacy.

Goodreads Reviews


Crowning Glory: A Celebration of Black Hair
Author: Carole Boston Weatherford
Illustrator: Ekua Holmes
Candlewick
3 September 2024
32 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Vibrant collages uplift every curl.

Goodreads Reviews


The Dictionary Story
Author: Oliver Jeffers
Illustrator: Sam Winston
Candlewick
27 March 2024
56 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Hilarious hijinks in alphabetic pandemonium.

Goodreads Reviews


Finding Things
Author: Kevin Henkes
Illustrator: Laura Dronzek
Greenwillow Books
14 May 2024
32 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Serendipity sparks joy, connection, contentment.”

Goodreads Reviews


Good Night Thoughts
Author: Max Greenfield
Illustrator: James Serafino
G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers
3  September 2024
32 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Greenfield soothes sleepless little minds.

Goodreads Reviews


Hanukkah Pajamakkahs
Author: Dara Henry
Illustrator: Olga & Aleksey Ivanov
Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
3 September 2024
40 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Ruthie’s resilience makes Hanukkah shine.

Goodreads Reviews


Home in a Lunchbox
Author: Cherry Mo
Illustrator: Cherry Mo
Penguin Workshop
11 June 2024
40 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Vibrant bites bridge shy beginnings.

Goodreads Reviews


I Am Gravity
Author: Henry Herz
Illustrator: Mercè López
Tilbury House Publishers
16 April 2024
32 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Herz balances science with elegance.

Goodreads Reviews


Just Like Millie by Lauren Castillo: Book CoverJust Like Millie
Author: Lauren Castillo
Illustrator: Lauren Castillo
Candlewick
27 March 2024
40 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Subtle sweetness transforms anxious beginnings.

Goodreads Reviews


The Last Stand
Author: Antwan Eady
Illustrator: Jarret and Jerome Pumphrey
Knopf Books for Young Readers
30 January 2024
40 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Generations harvest love and hope.

Goodreads Reviews


The Last Zookeeper
Author: Aaron Becker
Illustrator: Aaron Becker
Candlewick
26 March 2024
40 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Luminescent artwork animates quiet heroism.

Goodreads Reviews


Nothing: John Cage and 4′33″
Author: Nicholas Day
Illustrator: Chris Raschka
Neal Porter Books
2 April 2024
40 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Silence resonates, music redefined brilliantly.

Goodreads Reviews


Ode to Grapefruit: How James Earl Jones Found His Voice
Author: Kari Lavelle
Illustrator: Bryan Collier
Knopf Books for Young Readers
30 July 2024
48 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Words transform struggle into strength.

Goodreads Reviews


Piper Chen Sings
Author: Phillipa Soo and Maris Pasquale Doran
Illustrator: Qin Leng
Random House Studio
2 April 2024
40 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Harmony blooms amidst heartfelt jitters.

Goodreads Reviews


Small Things Mended
Author: Casey W. Robinson
Illustrator: Nancy Whitesides
Rocky Pond Books
19 March 2024
40 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Broken things inspire gentle healing.

Goodreads Reviews


The Table
Author: Winsome Bingham and Wiley Blevins
Illustrator: Jason Griffin
Neal Porter Books
17 September 2024
56 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Furniture holds history, fosters empathy.

Goodreads Reviews


Thank You
Author: Jarvis
Illustrator: Jarvis
Candlewick
6 August 2024
32 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Whimsy meets heartfelt thankfulness beautifully.

Goodreads Reviews


World More Beautiful: The Life and Art of Barbara Cooney
Author: Angela Burke Kunkel
Illustrator: Becca Statlander
Random House Studio
6 August 2024
40 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Visionary illustrator leaves lasting legacy.

Goodreads Reviews


The Yellow Bus
Author: Loren Long
Illustrator: Loren Long
Roaring Brook Press
25 June 2024
48 pages

OPB’s five-​word review: Timeless story, ultimate second chances.

Goodreads Reviews

Picture Book List: 15 Picture Books About Books

Calling all bookworms and bibliophiles!

Today, we’re turning the pages on a delightful collection of picture books that celebrate the magic of stories. From heartwarming tales about libraries to whimsical journeys into the world of words, these 15 gems are sure to spark a love of reading in young hearts.

So snuggle up with your little ones, open a book, and let the adventure begin!

**If I missed your favorite picture book that’s about books, tell me in the comments!**


Book Fiesta!: Celebrate Children’s Day/​Book Day by Pat Mora, illustrated by Rafael López (March 2016)

From Goodreads: “Take a ride in a long submarine or fly away in a hot air balloon. Whatever you do, just be sure to bring your favorite book! Rafael López’s colorful illustrations perfectly complement Pat Mora’s lilting text in this delightful celebration of El día de los niños/​El día de los libros; Children’s Day/​Book Day. Toon! Toon!

Includes a letter from the author and suggestions for celebrating El día de los niños/​El día de los libros; Children’s Day/​Book Day.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak (Sept 2014)

From Goodreads: “Warning! This book looks serious but it is actually completely ridiculous!

A book with no pictures?

What could be fun about that?

After all, if a book has no pictures, there’s nothing to look at but the words on the page.

Words that might make you say silly sounds… In ridiculous voices…

Hey, what kind of book is this, anyway?

At once disarmingly simple and ingeniously imaginative, ‘The Book With No Pictures’ inspires laughter every time it is opened, creating a warm and joyous experience to share—and introducing young children to the powerful idea that the written word can be an unending source of mischief and delight.

If a kid is trying to make you read this book, the kid is playing a trick on you. You will end up saying silly things and making everybody laugh and laugh!

Don’t say I didn’t warn you…”

  • 48 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

Charlie Cook’s Favorite Book by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler (June 2006)

From Goodreads: “Charlie Cook has a favorite book. It’s about a pirate, who also has a favorite book … about Goldilocks, who also has a favorite book … about a knight, who also has a favorite book .… This hilarious pattern continues throughout the story, right to the satisfying and surprising end.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 2–4 years

Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris LessmoreThe Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce, illustrated by Joe Bluhm (June 2012)

From Goodreads: “Morris Lessmore loved words.
He loved stories.
He loved books.
But every story has its upsets.

Everything in Morris Lessmore’s life, including his own story, is scattered to the winds.
But the power of story will save the day.”

  • 56 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

How Rocket Learned to Read by Tad Hills (July 2010)

From Goodreads: “Learn to read with this New York Times-bestselling picture book, starring an irresistible dog named Rocket and his teacher, a little yellow bird. Follow along as Rocket masters the alphabet, sounds out words, and finally … learns to read all on his own!

With a story that makes reading fun—and will even help listeners learn to read—this book is ideal for kindergarten classrooms and story hour or as a gift for that beginning reader. Fresh, charming art by Tad Hills, the New York Times bestselling author/​illustrator of Duck & Goose, will make this a favorite.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–6 years

How to Read a Story by Kate Messner, illustrated by Mark Siegel (May 2015)

From Goodreads: “Step One: Find a story. (A good one.)
Step Two: Find a reading buddy. (Someone nice.)
Step Three: Find a reading spot. (Couches are cozy.)
Now: Begin.
Accomplished storytellers Kate Messner and Mark Siegel chronicle the process of becoming a reader: from pulling a book off the shelf and finding someone with whom to share a story, to reading aloud, predicting what will happen, and—finally—coming to The End . This picture book playfully and movingly illustrates the idea that the reader who discovers the love of reading finds, at the end, the beginning.”

  • 36 pages
  • Reading Age: 5–7 years

The Incredible Book Eating Boy by Oliver Jeffers (April 2007)

From Goodreads: “Like many children, Henry loves books. But Henry doesn’t like to read books, he likes to eat them. Big books, picture books, reference books … if it has pages, Henry chews them up and swallows (but red ones are his favorite). And the more he eats, the smarter he gets—he’s on his way to being the smartest boy in the world! But one day he feels sick to his stomach. And the information is so jumbled up inside, he can’t digest it! Can Henry find a way to enjoy books without using his teeth? With a stunning new artistic style and a die-​cut surprise, Oliver Jeffers celebrates the joys of reading in this charming and quirky picture book. It’s almost good enough to eat.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–7 years

Let Me Finish! by Minh Lê, illustrated by Isabel Roxas (July 2016)

From Goodreads: “When our young hero settles in to read, the last thing he wants is for some noisy animals to ruin the ending of the story.

But ruin it they do.

And as it turns out, the boy is quickly approaching a surprise ending of his own! Maybe he should have listened to the animals after all.…

This silly, timeless picture book with a clever meta twist introduces debut author Minh Lê’s witty text and Isabel Roxas’s eye-​catching illustrations.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–6 years

The Library by Sarah Stewart, illustrated by David Small (April 1995)

From Goodreads: “Meet an unforgettable bibliophile.

Elizabeth Brown doesn’t like to play with dolls and she doesn’t like to skate. What she does like to do is read books. And now that she’s grown up, her collection has gotten so big all the shelves are collapsing. Her front door has disappeared entirely. What in the world will she do? The reclusive Elizabeth Brown surprises everyone wit her splendid solution.

In charming verse and elegant watercolors Sarah Stewart and David Small celebrate one of America’s grandest institutions.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 5–9 years

Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes (July 2006)

From Goodreads: “An affectionate storybook tribute to that truly wonderful place: the library.

Miss Merriweather, the head librarian, is very particular about rules in the library. No running allowed. And you must be quiet. But when a lion comes to the library one day, no one is sure what to do. There aren’t any rules about lions in the library. And, as it turns out, this lion seems very well suited to library visiting. His big feet are quiet on the library floor. He makes a comfy backrest for the children at story hour. And he never roars in the library, at least not anymore. But when something terrible happens, the lion quickly comes to the rescue in the only way he knows how. Michelle Knudsen’s disarming story, illustrated by the matchless Kevin Hawkes in an expressive timeless style, will win over even the most ardent of rule keepers.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 1–3 years

Little Red Reading Hood and the Misread Wolf by Troy Wilson, illustrated by Ilaria Campana (July 2019)

From Goodreads: “A retelling of the classic Little Red Riding Hood, starring our bookish heroine Red and a misunderstood, book-​loving wolf desperate for a good story.

Little Red Reading Hood loves–you guessed it–reading! She applies everything she learns from books to the real world. So, when she sets off to take her sick grandmother a homemade treat, she’s prepared for anything that comes her way. In keeping with the original story, Red is in for a surprise when she arrives to find a wolf disguised as her grandmother. But this is no ordinary wolf… This is the Misread Wolf, who’s after something more delicious than your average snack. He’s desperate for a bedtime story and knows Little Red Reading Hood might just be his only hope.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

Lola at the Library by Anna McQuinn, illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw (June 2006)

From Goodreads: “Learn about the library, checking out books, and story time with Lola.  Every Tuesday Lola and her mommy go to the library. Lola meets her friends there. They share books and don’t have to be quiet all the time. The nice librarian tells stories. There is a big machine that buzzes Lola’s books in and out, and she can take any books she wants home with her. Lola and her mommy always stop for a treat on the way home. No wonder Lola loves the library.

This gentle story of growing with books encourages little ones to discover the joy of reading as well as getting them ready and excited to visit the library.

Sweet, bright illustrations are from a kids-​eye point of view. Perfect for a lap read or story time, the first in Lola series, LOLA AT THE LIBRARY is a book young readers will fall in love with.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 1–3 years

Read the Book, Lemmings! by Ame Dyckman, illustrated by Zachariah OHora (Nov 2017)

From Goodreads: “Aboard the S.S. Cliff, First Mate Foxy reads an interesting fact: “Lemmings don’t jump off cliffs.” But Foxy can’t get the lemmings on the Cliff to read his book, too. They’re too busy jumping off.

After a chilly third rescue, exasperated Foxy and grumbly polar bear Captain PB realize their naughty nautical crew isn’t being stubborn: The lemmings (Jumper, Me Too, and Ditto) can’t read. And until Foxy patiently teaches his lemmings to read the book, he can’t return to reading it, either!”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 2–8 years

Tomás and the Library Lady by Miranda Paul, illustrated by Nate Wragg (Feb 2000)

From Goodreads: “Tomás is a son of migrant workers. Every summer he and his family follow the crops north from Texas to Iowa, spending long, arduous days in the fields. At night they gather around to hear Grandfather’s wonderful stories. But before long, Tomás knows all the stories by heart. “There are more stories in the library,” Papa Grande  tells him.  The very next day, Tomás meets the library lady and a whole new world opens up for him.

Based on the true story of the Mexican-​American author and educator Tomás Rivera, a child of migrant workers who went on to become the first minority Chancellor in the University of California system, this inspirational story suggests what libraries–and education–can make possible.  Raul Colón’s warm, expressive paintings perfectly interweave the harsh realities of Tomás’s life, the joyful imaginings he finds in books, and his special relationships with a wise grandfather and a caring librarian.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–7 years

Wolf! by Becky Bloom, illustrated by Pascal Biet (March 1999)

From Goodreads: “A wolf learns to read in order to impress a group of farmyard animals he has met.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

Picture Book List: 13 Delightful A to Z Books

I’ve been hired to write an alphabet picture book for a community organization (Thanks, Realize Bradenton!), and as part of my research and prewriting process, I’ve inundated myself with dozens of A to Z books. To clear, I have A to Z, ABC, and abecedarian books coming out of my ears. Almost literally!

After reading them for three weeks straight, here’s what I’ve come to believe. The pedestrian ones teach you the ABCs, sure. But the best of them do so much more.

That’s what this bonus picture book list is–13 of the most interesting A to Zs that I found. (Why not 26? you ask, since there are 26 letters in an A to Z. after all. Good question. The answer is this: I’m doing 13. Maybe we’ll do another 13 in a future installment of “Delightful A to Z books.” Who knows?)

Without further ado …


The ABCs of D&D
by Ivan Van Norman and Caleb Cleveland

Talk about indoctrinating your kids while teaching the ABCS! At least D&D is now recognized as being good for you in a lot of ways beyond just plain being fun. (Here’s journalist Ethan Gildsdorf’s Tedx talk on the topic!)

 

AlphaOops! The Day Z Went First
by Alethea Kontis (Illustrated by Bob Kolar)

Kolar’s bright, lively letters pop off the page and make a great match with Kontis’ clever wordplay. And I must confess–with a last name that starts with V, I’m pleased that we end-​of-​alphabeters might get a chance to go near the front for once!

 

America: A Patriotic Primer
by Lynne Cheney (Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser)

In a time where the word “America” might not have the patriotic oomph it once did, this book does a splendid job of presenting historical facts, the Constitution, freedom, what it means to be an American, and far more. It’s a winner for teachers/​parents who want a picture book to help them take on topics like diversity and tenacity.

 

Animalicious: A Quirky ABC Book
by Anna Dewdney and Reed Duncan (Illustrated by Claudia Boldt)

The animals in this book are indeed quirky (and imaginary). For example, it’s not a “python” but a “piethon.” Lots of fun to be had here!

 

The Dangerous Alphabet
by Neil Gaiman (Illustrated by Gris Grimly)

I’m happy to include Neil Gaiman on pretty much any book list I make. Thankfully, he DOES have an ABC book and–to no one’s surprise–it’s strange, fun, and (kid-​appropriately) dark in equal measure. Gaiman warns that even the alphabet is not to be relied upon, which is part of the fun here. Check out a read-​aloud video of the whole book here.

 

If Rocks Could Sing: A Discovered Alphabet
by Leslie McGuirk

So cool, so clever. The rocks don’t just look like letters–they also look like the things themselves. (N is for nose, and indeed, she’s got a terrific nose-​shaped stone to complement the word!)

 

M Is for Melody: A Music Alphabet
by Kathy-​jo Wargin (Illustrated by Katherine Larson)

This book is a lesson in both the ABCs and music, using instruments, composers, musical terminology, and even musical styles in read-​aloud rhymes. The informative sidebars are a plus!

 

Once Upon an Alphabet: Short Stories for All the Letters
by Oliver Jeffers

While you probably know him as the illustrator of The Day the Crayons Quit, he’s also authored this fine book which has each letter in the alphabet associated with a word or phrase. Then Jeffers offers a humorous story to pair with it. (Here’s an example: E is for enigma, so … “How many elephants can you fit inside an envelope?”)

 

P Is for Pterodactyl: “The Worst Alphabet Book Ever”
by Raj Haldar and Chris Carpenter (Illustrated by Maria Tina Beddia)

While this might not help young readers with their spelling, this clever book is a lot of fun for adult and kid readers. Not every word has that silent first letter, but it’s an amusing list of tricky words, regardless. I find the cartoony illustrations to add to–as The New York Times says–“a raucous trip through the odd corners of our alphabet.”

 

Q Is for Duck: An Alphabet Guessing Game
by Mary Elting and Michael Folsom (Illustrated by Jack Kent)

This book has a mix of very easy (A is for Zoo–why?) to not-​so-​easy riddles (S is for camel–why? They spit!) for kids to solve using the letters of the alphabet as a jumping off point. Many of my K and 1st grade teacher friends use this one in class.

 

Superhero ABC
by Bob McLeod

This book really leans into the letter aspect, with entries such as “Laughing Lass, who laughs loudly at lawbreakers!” The comic-​book style art is a nice touch, too.

 

What Pete Ate from A — Z
by Maira Kalman

The alliteration is over the top, but deliciously so as Pete the dog gobbles up anything he can, from an accordion to when he “ripped the head off my dear doll Dinky.” It’s told from a child’s point of view, which adds another level to the fine book.

  Z Is for Moose
by Kelly Bingham (Illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky)

I love this book. Poor, serious Zebra wants a simple ABC here, but Moose has other ideas. When M goes to a mouse, however, Moose throws a tantrum and rampages through the rest of the book. Don’t worry–it all comes together in the end. Z Is for Moose is silly, irreverent, and very memorable, too.

Picture Book List: 12 Books that (Wonderfully!) Break the Fourth Wall

See the source imageOne of the books we (quite literally) wore out in our family was The Monster at the End of this Book written by Jon Stone and illustrated by Michael Smolin. My kids simply loved how Grover “talked” to them from the pages, begging them not to keep reading because he was 100% sure that at the end of the book, there’d be a monster. Yikes! As a parent reading with my kids, I loved how when Grover asked my kids questions (like “Do you know that you are very strong?”), my kids always roared and flexed their little girl muscles in response. Fun for everyone!

For those who like fancy terms, we’re talking about a type of metafiction here, meaning a book that’s fully aware that it’s a book, which allows the author and/​or illustrator to play with the normal conventions of a book. (Here are some wise words and explanations about breaking the fourth wall from Romelle Broas’ blog.) When used in a picture book, breaking the fourth wall often results in a great read-​aloud experience since kids are invited to be part of the plot. Who doesn’t want to join in with a terrific story, right?

I went through my PB bookshelf the other day with the idea of organizing them not by title or author name, but by type of book. And what I found was this–I have a LOT of books that break the fourth wall.

So, here are a few OPB favorites, plus a couple of ones you might not yet know, but surely will come to love. Did I miss your favorite? If so, tell me in the comments. I’ll make sure to get a copy so I can add it to my Fourth Wall shelf.


Six Classic Fourth-Wall-Breakers

See the source imageThe Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak

He was terrific as Ryan the Temp in The Office, but he’s proven to be equally amusing as a picture book writer, too. Wait until the adults have to say “BLORK” or “GLIBBITY GLOBBITY” or “BLURRF”! Fun, fun, fun.

 

The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

If you’ve ever felt that some crayons–like some people–don’t get their fair shake, then this book will prove satisfying. My fav is green, the real people-​pleaser of the entire box. You’ll never look at crayons the same way again!

 

See the source imageDon’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems

The fact that it’s a Caldecott Honor winner is reason enough to give it a shot. But kids LOVE being put in charge, and that’s what the bus driver does when he has to step out. And wow, that pigeon is willing to do or say anything to get his shot behind the wheel. Good, silly fun all around.

 

See the source imageHarold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

This timeless classic–written 60+ years ago–still lands well with readers today. As Harold takes his oversized crayon through the woods and past dragons before returning to bed, we see just how wonderful one’s imagination can be.

 

See the source imagePress Here by Hervé Tullet

Kids who appreciate tactile interactions will love this book, which asks them to push buttons, shake the book, tilt it, and more. You might want to consider the board book version so you can be sure it’ll survive all the physical interactions. My nephew is wearing out his copy fast–it doesn’t sit for more than a day on his bookshelf before he’s enjoying it again.

 

See the source imageZ is for Moose by Kelly Bingham

Zebra wants the alphabet to be simple. A is for apple, etc., but Moose is far too excited to wait his turn. This comedy of errors is loads of fun that’s made all the better by Caldecott medalist Paul Zelinsky’s outrageous images.

 

Six Wall-​Busting Picture Books You Might Not Know
(But Definitely Should!)

See the source imageThis Book Is Magic by Ashley Evanson

If you like Tullet’s Press Here, then this book is a must-​read. Tap a hat to make a bunny appear. Utter the words to a spell to make a book–POOF–get bigger! Just watch out, though. Magic tricks don’t always end up the way one expects!

 

See the source imageThis Book Just Ate My Dog by Richard Byrne

Want to learn what the gutter of a book is? You will in Richard Byrne’s book., because this girl’s poor pooch disappears in the gutter—the gap between pages in the center. It’ll take far more than a hard tug on the leash to make things go right in this curious story.

 

See the source imageCan You Make a Scary Face? by Jan Thomas

This bossy little ladybug will keep readers having fun. The bold, cartoon style and wild, bright backdrops help make this a memorable, vivid reading experience. Wiggling, blowing, doing the chicken dance? There’s a lot of kid fun here.

Be warned, though–this is not a good book for quiet time. Kids will make a lot of noise.

 

See the source imageTap the Magic Tree by Christie Matheson

In this fine book, readers are asked to interact with a tree. Every page turn rewards that action, with the tree changing in some manner. While many fourth wall breakers are more about fun than anything else, this one invites contemplation and reflection.

 

See the source imageThe Panda Problem by Deborah Underwood (lllustrated by Hannah Marks)

We all know how stories work, right? So does the narrator in this story, only Panda isn’t playing along. What’s a narrator to do now?

Check out the OPB review of this title for more details.

 

See the source imageWolves by Emily Gravett

Rabbits shouldn’t believe what they read in fairy tales, and neither should you. This story is pro-​library and pro-​fun. And if it seems a bit too dark at times, there’s a bonus alternate ending for the sensitive reader.