Children’s early encounters with reading are incredibly important; positive first experiences with books can make them readers for life. Fortunately there’s an astonishing wealth of picture books available for the lucky children of the twenty-first century to choose from. With their beautiful brightly-coloured illustrations, unforgettable characters and stories that can entertain, teach and inspire, picture books can become an integral part of a young child’s daily routine, to be shared with and enjoyed by every member of the family. We’ve compiled a list of our 10 favourite classic picture books that no family home should be without…
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Elmer: The Story of a Patchwork Elephant David McKee |
Elmer tells the story of a multicoloured elephant who attempts to blend in with the crowd only to discover that it is his personality, not his appearance, that makes him the elephant he is. A humorous and unforgettable picture book that teaches children a valuable lesson about the importance of simply being yourself.
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The Story of the Little Mole Who Knew it Was None of His Business Werner Holzwarth |
An unfortunate little mole wakes up one morning to discover that something rather unpleasant has been deposited on his head. This outrageously funny picture book takes its readers on a unique journey as the mole sets out on a mission to uncover the culprit. A picture book gem that will have adults as well as children laughing out loud.
This first outing of Charlie and Lola’s hilarious brother and sister act tackles a situation that parents can identify with only too easily. The ingenious Charlie resorts to extremely creative subterfuge in order to persuade his little sister Lola to eat her vegetables. Lauren Child perfectly captures the voices of her characters, and her quirky illustrations bring the story brilliantly to life.
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How to Catch a Star Oliver Jeffers |
Writer and artist Oliver Jeffers’ first picture book is an enchanting and poignant story about dreams coming true. Its simple, humorous storyline works perfectly with the stunning illustrations, making it a beautiful gift for 3-5 year olds.
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Mog the Forgetful Cat Judith Kerr |
The first of Judith Kerr’s Mog stories is a true classic that has stood the test of time. Mog’s forgetfulness is always getting her into trouble until she accidentally saves the day by helping to catch a burglar. An engaging story about a very big personality, full of warmth and humour.
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Where The Wild Things Are Maurice Sendak |
When Max gets set to bed without any supper, his imagination takes him on a fantastical journey into a mysterious and wonderful land in which he is King of all the wild things. An adventure story in which a young boy discovers that life isn’t all about having things your own way, and that home isn’t such a terrible place after all.
When Hairy Maclary goes for a walk with some of his friends, they are met by a nasty surprise… Lynley Dodd’s rhythmic and rhyming prose makes Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy a fantastic story to read along with, complete as it is with comical sound effects. A lively and charming bedtime read.
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The Very Hungry Caterpillar Eric Carle |
This colourful and much-loved classic takes very young children on a culinary adventure as the caterpillar eats its way through the pages towards a delightful surprise. With counting and tactile pages, this is a book that satisfies on many levels.
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The Gruffalo Julia Donaldson |
Julia Donaldson’s most popular rhyming picture book tells the story of a quick-witted mouse whose imaginative invention turns out to be rather less of an invention than he’d expected. The Gruffalo won the gold award (in the 0–5 years category) of the 1999 Nestle Smarties Book Prize and the Blue Peter Best Book To Read Aloud award, and it isn’t difficult to see why.
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We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Michael Rosen |
The simple but beautifully-written repetitive phrases in this firm family favourite make it the perfect story for young children to learn and join in with. A family expedition turns into more of an adventure than anybody was expecting!