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MAY PICTURE BOOK LIST

Delightful Picture Books to Celebrate May with Your Family

May brings blooming flowers, warmer days, and the joy of watching the world come back to life. It’s a beautiful time to refresh your read-aloud basket with stories that celebrate nature and motherhood.

This handpicked list of May picture books includes sweet springtime stories, books to honor moms, and titles that reflect the beauty of the season. Each one is chosen for its wholesome content, engaging artwork, and family-friendly themes.

Scroll through the list below and don’t forget to grab the free printable version to take to your local library or bookstore!

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Mama Built a Little Nest by Jennifer Ward, illustrated by Steve Jenkins

A delightful, rhyming exploration of the many ways birds build homes for their babies. With fascinating facts and Jenkins’ signature cut-paper illustrations, this is a gentle, educational read perfect for springtime nature studies and Mother's Day.

One More Hug by Megan Alexander, illustrated by Hiroe Nakata

A tender story that follows a mother and son through the milestones of growing up, reminding readers that it's always okay to ask for "one more hug." Soft illustrations and heartfelt moments make this a comforting read for both kids and parents. Moms, have your tissues ready!

Saturday by Oge Mora

A beautifully illustrated tale of a mother and daughter whose special Saturday plans go awry, teaching resilience and the joy of spending time together, no matter the circumstances.

Turtle Splash! by Cathryn Falwell

A counting book that combines a peaceful pond setting with playful animal interactions, making it an engaging read for preschoolers learning numbers and enjoying nature.

Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney

This classic tells the inspiring story of a woman who travels the world and then strives to make it more beautiful, encouraging readers to leave their own positive mark.

Jump, Frog, Jump! by Robert Kalan, illustrated by Byron Barton

A cumulative tale that will have young readers jumping and chanting along, following a frog's adventures with rhythmic repetition and bold illustrations.

Tops & Bottoms by Janet Stevens

A clever retelling of a trickster tale where a hare outsmarts a lazy bear, teaching lessons about hard work and ingenuity with vibrant illustrations.

It Could Always Be Worse by Margot Zemach

A humorous Yiddish folktale that imparts the lesson of gratitude, as a man learns that his crowded home isn't as bad as it seems after some unexpected advice.

Tad by Benji Davies

A heartwarming story about the smallest tadpole in the pond who faces her fears and learns that growing up happens at one's own pace, with charming illustrations to match.

Wordy Birdy by Tammi Sauer, illustrated by Dave Mottram

Meet Wordy Birdy, a talkative bird who learns the importance of listening in this humorous tale filled with vibrant illustrations and a valuable lesson for young readers.

Ada's Violin: The Story of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay by Susan Hood, illustrated by Sally Wern Comport

The inspiring true story of children in Paraguay who create a world-renowned orchestra using instruments made from recycled materials. A testament to creativity, resilience, and the transformative power of music.

Mr. Crum's Potato Predicament by Anne Renaud, illustrated by Felicita Sala

Discover the amusing tale of how a chef's frustration led to the invention of the potato chip. A flavorful slice of culinary history that's sure to entertain and educate young readers.

The Mystery of the Monarchs by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by Erika Meza

Follow the true story of a scientist and schoolchildren who unravel the secrets of monarch butterfly migration. A beautifully illustrated journey into the wonders of nature and scientific discovery.

Mossy by Jan Brett

Mossy, a turtle with a garden growing on her shell, is taken to a museum, sparking questions about nature, beauty, and freedom. Jan Brett's detailed illustrations enrich this touching story about appreciating living things in their natural habitats.

Petunia by Roger Duvoisin

Petunia the goose believes that owning a book makes her wise, leading to humorous misadventures. A classic tale that playfully underscores the importance of true understanding over appearances.

At This Very Moment by Jim Arnosky

A poetic exploration of the simultaneous happenings in nature around the world. Arnosky's gentle verse and illustrations invite readers to ponder the interconnectedness of life.

A Little More Beautiful by Sarah Mackenzie, illustrated by Breezy Brookshire

Lou Alice quietly beautifies her town with secret gardens, inspiring a young girl to continue her legacy. A heartwarming story about kindness, community, and the impact of small acts.

Escargot by Dashka Slater, illustrated by Sydney Hanson

Meet Escargot, a charming French snail on a quest to be your favorite animal and enjoy a delicious salad, sans carrots. A delightful read-aloud that combines humor, interactivity, and a gentle message about trying new things.

Chester Van Chime Who Forgot How to Rhyme by Avery Monsen, illustrated by Abby Hanlon

Chester Van Chime wakes up one day unable to rhyme, leading to a humorous and heartfelt journey to rediscover his lost skill. A playful story that celebrates language and perseverance.

Balderdash!: John Newbery and the Boisterous Birth of Children's Books by Michelle Markel, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter

Dive into the lively biography of John Newbery, the pioneer of children's literature. An engaging look at how children's books came to be, filled with spirited illustrations and historical insight.

Turtle Pond by James Gladstone, illustrated by Karen Reczuch

A gentle, poetic journey through the seasons as a family visits their local garden to observe turtles. The detailed illustrations and lyrical prose invite young readers to slow down and appreciate the quiet wonders of nature.

Peep Leap by Elizabeth Verdick, illustrated by John Bendall-Brunello

Ten ducklings face the big leap from their nest, but one isn't so sure. This rhyming, counting story is both playful and reassuring. Perfect for little ones facing their own brave firsts.

The God Contest by Carl Laferton, illustrated by Catalina Echeverri

This engaging retelling of Elijah's showdown with the prophets of Baal and the resurrection of Jesus points children to the one true God.

Spring Walk by Virginia Brimhall Snow

Join Grammy and her grandchildren on a delightful walk as they discover the blooming wonders of spring. A gentle introduction to nature's seasonal changes, perfect for young explorers.

Millions of Cats by Wanda Gág

An elderly couple's quest for the perfect cat leads to a comical and cautionary tale about vanity and contentment. This classic, with its rhythmic text and folk-art illustrations, remains a timeless read-aloud favorite.

Because Barbara by Sarah Mackenzie, illustrated by Eileen Ryan Ewen

A beautifully told biography of beloved illustrator Barbara Cooney, tracing her journey from New York to Maine and beyond. An inspiring story for budding artists and dreamers alike.

Spot, the Cat by Henry Cole

In this wordless adventure, follow Spot as he sneaks out of his apartment and explores the city. Detailed black-and-white illustrations encourage storytelling and observation skills.

Green on Green by Dianne White, illustrated by Felicita Sala

A lyrical celebration of the changing seasons and the colors they bring, culminating in the arrival of a new sibling. Soft, vibrant illustrations make this a soothing read for young children.

The Gardener by Sarah Stewart, illustrated by David Small

During the Great Depression, young Lydia Grace brings hope and beauty to a gray city through her love of gardening. Told through letters, this Caldecott Honor book is a touching story of resilience and the power of nature.

Don't Touch That Flower! by Alice Hemming, illustrated by Nicola Slater

Squirrel is a bit too protective of a spring bloom, but Bird gently teaches him about letting nature take its course. A sweet and funny tale about patience and the joy of sharing beauty with others.

Looking for more book lists? Check these out:

Seasonal Book Lists

Monthly Family Reading Guides

Holiday Book Lists

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