As a seasoned storyteller and former librarian, I’ve had the pleasure of diving into countless picture books. Some have become trusted friends, revisited frequently for story time or personal enjoyment. While Penguin Problems may not be suitable for large groups of young children, its humor has won me over; it’s a treasure trove of comedic gold.
Many beloved picture books share this distinction – they’re the masterpieces of renowned illustrators like Jerry Pinkney, Eric Carle, Anna Dewdney, and Ellen Stoll Walsh. Their enduring popularity is no accident. These books often employ verbal repetition, rhythmic storytelling, striking illustrations, or interactive elements to captivate young minds.
Adults, too, can appreciate their artistic merit, clever wordplay, engaging plots, and nuanced character development – not to mention subtle nods to their readership. For this list, we’ll venture beyond the familiar favorites and uncover 20 hidden gems that will delight both children and adults alike.
From whimsical tales of mice on a mission to satisfy their appetites, to meditative poems celebrating the magic of books, or heartwarming stories about Navajo boys embracing their creativity, this collection has something for everyone – including an abundance of feline friends, as I have a soft spot for books featuring these often-maligned pets.
The Best Picture Books You’ve Never Heard Of
Sing to the Moon by Nansubuga Nagadya Isdahl and Sandra van Doorn
In a small village nestled in Uganda’s lush mountainside, Jjajja’s young grandson is driven by an insatiable curiosity that knows no bounds. His aspirations soar far beyond the rolling hills and valleys he calls home, stretching out to the vast expanse of space itself. Yet, when fate deals him a rainy day blow, this bright-eyed youngster finds himself grounded by the unpredictable forces of nature.
It is then that his wise and venerable grandfather steps in, imparting timeless wisdom born from the magic that surrounds them. With each turn of the page, readers are treated to a kaleidoscope of enchanting illustrations that dance with light, evoking feelings of wonder and awe. This tender tale of connection and hope will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.
Lullaby by Langston Hughes and Sean Qualls
Let’s Go! By Sarah Williamson
Tuski the elephant is on the move, embarking on an exciting adventure in his bright red taxi. As he travels, he encounters a diverse array of characters, including a zesty lemon, a tiny pea, a brilliant blue bird, and even some busy ladybugs. This engaging story offers numerous opportunities for young readers to practice essential skills like counting, identifying colors, and recognizing objects.
This delightful tale is an excellent choice for children across various age ranges, thanks to its varying levels of accessibility. The bold, high-contrast illustrations with minimal detail create a stimulating environment that fosters focused attention and effortless engagement.
Our Car by J. M. Brum and Jan Bajtlik
Embarking on a thrilling adventure, this delightful tale takes readers for a spin, exploring a carwash, braving a storm, and more from the comfort of a bright red vehicle. The father-son duo behind the wheel adds an extra layer of excitement as they navigate through energetic illustrations that perfectly capture the sense of movement and thrill. A must-read for anyone passionate about vehicles and eager to explore the world beyond their own backyards.
Mouse Went Out to Get a Snack by Lyn Rossiter McFarland and Jim McFarland
In this whimsical tale, a hungry mouse embarks on a thrilling adventure, driven by the promise of a sumptuous feast. As our plucky hero scurries about, collecting an impressive spread, danger lurks in the form of a sly house cat. With its keen senses and quick reflexes, the mouse must navigate treacherous terrain to safely return to the comfort of its cozy hole-ın-the-wall home.
This charming story is a delightful blend of counting and food identification, wrapped snugly within a timeless cat-and-mouse narrative, all brought to life by impressive and detailed illustrations.
Strong as a Bear by Katrin Stangl
In a world where emotions run deep and connections are key, ‘Strong as a Bear’ presents a unique perspective on what it means to be human. This charming picture book weaves together simple yet powerful text with whimsical illustrations that will leave readers of all ages feeling seen and understood.
With each turn of the page, new comparisons emerge, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.
From quiet as a mouse to proud as a peacock, this heartwarming book celebrates the diversity of human nature while maintaining a reassuring rhythm that keeps us turning those pages until the very end.
Fall in Line, Holden! by Daniel V. Vandever
For Holden, a Navajo boy at school, life is a series of predetermined expectations. His days are filled with set agendas, strict rules on behavior, and limitations on when and how he can think. However, his vivid imagination makes it difficult for him to conform to these standards. Every aspect of his life has the potential to be something more, leaving Holden questioning whether he should adapt to the norms or forge his own path.
This engaging story, featuring high-contrast and simple illustrations, invites readers of all ages to join Holden on a thrilling mental adventure, where they can exercise their imagination alongside him.
The 5,000 Friends of Veronica Veetch by Jean Hanson and Launie Parry
Veronica’s peers seem puzzled by her adventurous exploits, assuming they’re too pricey and cultured for their own taste. However, when she invites them over to share in the magic of books, they soon discover that it’s not about the cost or sophistication, but about the power of imagination. The 5,000 Friends of Veronica Veetch is a delightful tale brought to life by bright and friendly illustrations, inspiring readers to dive into the world of literature even further.
Two Mrs. Gibsons by Toyomi Igus and Daryl Wells
In this poignant memoir, Toyomi Igus beautifully captures her experiences growing up with a Japanese mother and African American grandmother. The author’s reflections on the distinct qualities of each woman and their profound impact on her life are woven together by patterned illustrations that add depth to the narrative.
While straightforward in its prose, this picture book is a rich tapestry of cultural exploration and personal storytelling, making it a unique treasure for readers seeking stories about biracial identities.
Is It a Mermaid? by Candy Gourlay and Francesca Chessa
As Benji and Bel explored the Philippine beaches, they stumbled upon an intriguing creature – a dugong claiming to be a mermaid. With her shimmering tail and enchanting singing voice, this self-assured sea dweller was convinced she could win over the duo with her charm. Her conviction was unwavering as she navigated the shores, showcasing her ‘mermaid’ qualities.
This lighthearted tale, brought to life through textured illustrations, seamlessly blends mythology into a humorous narrative, making it an excellent lesson on respect and understanding.
Kitten’s Autumn by Eugenie Fernandes
As the seasons change, Kitten’s innate sense of wonder propels her beyond the familiar boundaries of her farm, leading her to a world full of hidden wonders in the fall. With each new discovery, she meets an array of fascinating creatures, from plump caterpillars to quick-witted chipmunks, and forges lasting bonds with these newfound friends. Young readers will be captivated by Kitten’s adventures as she explores the unique charms of autumn, delighting in the sensory richness of the season.
The story is brought to life through clever rhyming couplets, perfectly complemented by intricate mixed media illustrations that invite hours of exploration and discovery for both kids and adults alike.
Melena’s Jubilee: The Story of a Fresh Start by Zetta Elliott and Aaron Boyd
As Melena embarks on a fresh day, she’s determined to break free from her usual patterns. She makes a conscious effort to put an end to sibling squabbles, extend kindness, and share what she has – embracing a lifestyle that embodies the essence of jubilee. With this book, readers are not only introduced to Melena’s journey but also gain insight into the concept itself through an author’s note.
The illustrations, a masterful blend of simplicity and intricacy, bring depth and visual appeal to the narrative, reinforcing the significance of this thought-provoking premise.
Good Morning, Grumple by Victoria Allenby and Manon Gauthier
Not everyone starts their day on the same foot, particularly Grumple who takes a strong dislike to mornings. His mother attempts a gentle approach to rouse him from slumber, and this tender moment is beautifully captured through a unique collage-style illustration and an endearing new character design. The promise of exciting adventures ahead makes the morning struggle more manageable, making it a delightful experience for all.
Bright Sky, Starry City by Uma Krishnaswami and Aimée Sicuro
As the sun sets on a momentous evening, Saturn and Mars are poised to make a rare and spectacular appearance together in the night sky. For Phoebe, this is more than just a celestial event – it’s an opportunity to join her dad at the telescopes set up on the sidewalk, sharing in his passion for the stars. However, their stargazing plans are threatened by the city lights that seem to mock their efforts to connect with the cosmos.
Just as all hope appears lost, fate intervenes in the form of a storm that brings a power outage, plunging the city into darkness. As the rain clears and the world is bathed in an otherworldly glow, Phoebe’s dream of witnessing the astronomical phenomenon may not be lost after all.
This enchanting tale, accompanied by captivating illustrations, also includes an educational afterword that delves into the wonders of outer space, inspiring young readers to explore and learn about the vast expanse beyond our planet.
Still My Grandma by Veronique Van Den Abeele and Claude K. Dubois
Camille cherishes the time spent with her grandmother, relishing sleepovers, baking, and other joyful activities they share together. However, things have taken a sudden turn as her grandmother’s memory lapses become more pronounced, forgetting Camille’s name among other struggles. Despite the challenges, Camille remains committed to nurturing their bond by adapting their shared experiences to accommodate her grandmother’s decline.
This poignant tale, beautifully illustrated with gentle art and infused with warmth and kindness, explores the complexities of Alzheimer’s disease in a way that is both relatable and uplifting.
Something to Do by David Lucas
In the absence of any grand plans, two bears from Something to Do find themselves at a creative crossroads. Fortunately, their imagination is piqued by the humblest of objects – a stick. As they begin to bring their fantasies to life, they discover the joy of collaboration and the limitless possibilities that arise when creativity meets improvisation.
The simple yet engaging narrative and understated art style of this tale invite readers to join in on the fun, sparking their own imagination and conjuring up novel ways to spend a leisurely afternoon.
My Cat Copies Me by Yoon-duck Kwon
When shyness and timidity take hold, having a trusted companion can make all the difference. For one young girl, her faithful feline friend is the source of encouragement she needs to venture out and push beyond her comfort zone. Kwon’s masterful use of concise language adds depth and subtlety to the story, as it gently explores themes of growth and self-discovery.
The vibrant illustrations are full of energy and movement, beautifully capturing the main character’s journey from uncertainty to confidence. This picture book is a heartwarming blend of comfort and inspiration, leaving readers feeling empowered yet soothed.
I Love Cats! by Sue Stainton and Bob Staake
The charming narrator of ‘I Love Cats!’ has a passion for felines that knows no bounds, embracing all shapes, sizes, and personalities. As readers delve into the whimsical text, they’re also treated to a visual feast featuring an array of imaginative illustrations. These vibrant, action-packed pictures burst with energy, spilling over each page in a kaleidoscope of color and fun.
Jazzy Miz Mozetta by Brenda C. Roberts and Frank Morrison
Miz Mozetta may not appear to be the life of the party, but her neighborhood kids are in for a surprise. As she heads out under the moon’s gentle glow, the infectious rhythms of the children’s music draw her in, and despite her friends’ initial reluctance to join the fun, Miz Mozetta is undeterred. With her spirits lifted, she takes to the dance floor, transporting readers on a journey down Memory Lane.
The book’s vibrant illustrations bring energy and dynamism to every page, leaving readers with a lingering melody that will resonate long after the final page has been turned.
Phoenix Song by Tutu Dutta and Martina Peluso
As Arohan unwraps his birthday gift from his grandmother, a bamboo flute known as a xiao, he’s initially disappointed it’s not the guitar he had been dreaming of. However, this traditional Chinese instrument holds secrets and mysteries waiting to be uncovered. When his brothers go missing, Arohan is left to embark on a quest to find them, relying on the ancient powers hidden within the flute to guide him.
The mystical world brought to life through Phoenix Song’s haunting illustrations draws readers into Arohan’s mythical adventure. If you’re looking for more enchanting stories, explore our curated lists of picture books for adults, must-reads for children in 2021, and under-the-radar gems.