Does the snow and ice have you stuck inside? Are you looking for a way to warm up your child’s imagination and literacy skills? Then, these five great picture books about winter and snow are perfect for snuggling for a cozy afternoon read! Picture books allow your child to create their own dialogue and story. Before reading a new book to your child, ask them what they think the story is about based on the pictures alone. This simple exercise builds your child’s language and literacy skills and boosts their creative thinking!
1. Red Sled by Lita Judge
In this almost wordless picture book, a host of woodland creatures take a child’s sled for a nighttime joy ride. Bold watercolor illustrations depict their whimsical ride, complemented by humorous expressions and pitch-perfect sound effects. With a timeless tone and classic characters, the RED SLED has become a wintertime favorite.
2. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
In 1962, a little boy named Peter put on his snowsuit and stepped out of his house and into the hearts of millions of readers. The Snowy Day transformed children’s literature with its pioneering portrayal of an African-American child and the charming story and artwork that won it the Caldecott Medal. The Snowy Day was one of the first picture books for young children to portray a realistic, multi-cultural urban setting. Since its initial publication, it has come to be regarded as both a children’s classic and one of the most important picture books ever written/illustrated.
3. Owl Moon by Jane Yolen
A girl and her father go owling on a moonlit winter night near their farm. Bundled tight in wool clothes, they trudge through the snow; here and there, hidden in ink-blue shadows, a fox, raccoon, field mouse, and deer watch them pass. Schoenherr’s watercolor washes depict a New England few readers see. The beautiful art and lyrical text bring to life an unusual countryside adventure.
4. White Snow, Bright Snow by Alvin Tresselt
When the first flakes fell from the grey sky, the postman, the farmer, the policeman, and his wife scurried about doing all the practical things grownups do when a snowstorm comes. But the children laughed, danced, and caught the lacy snowflakes on their tongues. All the wonder and delight a child feels in a snowfall is caught in the pages of this magical picture book. Roger Duvoisin’s pictures featuring soft primary colors emphasize the text’s joy, humor, and poetic quality.
5. The Snowy Day by Anna Milbourne & Elena Temporin
The same name as the classic above, this story is a magical book that introduces young learners to snow, how it is formed, and what you can do with snow! Young children will adore following the icy delights of a snowy day, from sparkling frost to pretty snowflakes and sleepy squirrels to frozen frogs. Elena Temporin’s vivid illustrations evoke all the magic and excitement of a winter’s day.
Updated January 21st, 2024, by L. Elizabeth Forry
