Great Picture Books to Share With Your Child

Bring Home the Best Stories

Want more ideas on great books to read with your child? Looking for inspiration for your nightly ritual reading together? If your child is ready to move on from board books to bigger books with more story elements, check out this list for your next favorite.

Richard Scarry: These classic books have a lot to offer. From beginner books with every item clearly labeled with its name, to the adventures of the pig family, you can’t go wrong with these cartoon animals. Choose any one of the oversized picture books to share with your child, and get ready to read them over and over again.

If You Give a Pig a Pancake: This sweet tale introduces cause and effect in a delightfully humorous way. Both kids and adults can relate to the hungry pig who creates more fun situations that need solutions. Read the original or grab any one of the fun titles in this series of similar books.

My Pet Rattlesnake: This book harnesses the joy of letting your imagination run wild. In books, anything is possible, including a pet snake who saves the day. Enjoy this tall tale with your child and see what stories it sparks.

The Lorax: Another classic tale from beloved author Dr. Seuss, this environmental tale still resonates with readers of all ages today. It’s never too young to introduce kids to the consequences of actions and broader perspectives. Coupled with the whimsical drawings from this author and illustrator, kids will enjoy the bright colors and rhyming text that has made this book cherished for generations.

Sofia Valdez, Future Prez: Want to break gender and race boundaries so your kids know they can do anything their heart desires? Grab any one of the books in this series of rhyming names and titles. Each one features one of the pupils in Lila Greer’s second grade class and how they don’t have to wait to realize their dreams.

Nibbles: This mischievous little monster romps through many classic fairy tales, changing the ending to the delight of readers of all ages. The holes in the pages “nibbled” by the creature of the same name only add to the fun. 

Toot & Puddle: These sweet pigs have a bond of friendship that goes beyond distance. Choose from any one of their tales, and enjoy the watercolor like illustrations featured on every page.

The Giving Tree: Shel Silverstein’s classic tale of the love affair between a growing boy and his tree still makes for a wonderful read. The simple black and white line drawing illustrations contribute to the power of this moving story, told over the course of one child’s lifetime.

Steam Train, Dream Train: The perfect ending to almost any day, this train gets filled up at dark. Animals take turns loading the different kinds of cars with all sorts of freight, from toys to treats. Let your little engineer enjoy the soothing pages and rhymes as they settle down for a good read.

The Day the Crayons Quit: This story highlights the crayons’ perspective. Each color has a distinct personality, and very specific complaints. FInd out what happens when they take it upon themselves to write letters requesting action to their grade-school owner.