picture books in winter

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Picture-books in Winter

Summer fading, winter comes— Frosty mornings, tingling thumbs Window robins, winter rooks, And the picture story-books.

Water now is turned to stone Nurse and I can walk upon; Still we find the flowing brooks In the picture story-books.

All the pretty things put by, Wait upon the children's eye, Sheep and shepherds, trees and crooks, In the picture story-books.

We may see how all things are, Seas and cities, near and far, And the flying fairies' looks, In the picture story-books.

How am I to sing your praise, Happy chimney-corner days, Sitting safe in nursery nooks, Reading picture story-books?

This poem is in the public domain.

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Brrr! 43 Picture Books About Winter

The weather outside is frightful, but we’ve got cozy books to read!

Whether your local winters involve cold rain and snow or sunshine and palm trees, your students will love these winter-themed picture books. Help your students relate to the changes in the world around them with these charming fiction and informative nonfiction selections. Stay warm and cozy out there!

(Just a heads up, WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. We only recommend items our team loves!)

Favorite Winter Picture Books

1. goodbye autumn, hello winter by kenard pak (pre-k–1).

A brother and sister take a late-autumn walk and notice subtle signs of winter’s upcoming arrival. Read it, and then bundle up for your own “hello winter” walk outside.

Buy it: Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter  on Amazon

2. Little Penguins by Cynthia Rylant (Pre-K–1)

This simple story perfectly captures a typical snow day, from the frantic dressing to the outdoor fun to the warming up again inside. The simple cut-paper penguins could easily star in a construction paper collage art project.

Buy it: Little Penguins on Amazon

3. Winter Dance by Marion Dane Bauer (Pre-K–1)

Fox wonders what he should do to prepare as winter looms and asks the advice of many other animals. None of their advice seems quite right, though. This story poetically introduces students to animal behaviors in winter.

Buy it: Winter Dance on Amazon

4. First Snow by Bomi Park (Pre-K–1)

This simple book, with its hazy black, white, and red illustrations, is for any child who sees the first snowflakes and wants to rush right outside. The surprise ending is a treat.

Buy it: First Snow  on Amazon

5. When the Snow Falls by Linda Booth Sweeney (Pre-K–2)

An amazing collection of verbs describes everything that happens when it snows. Use this to inspire a class book for preschool and kindergarten or poetry writing for older students.

Buy it: When the Snow Falls  on Amazon

6. Winter Wonderland by Jill Esbaum (Pre-K–2)

There aren’t many winter picture books that feature photography, which is why this title is unique. Part of National Geographic Kids’ Picture the Seasons series, this book presents just that: photographic documentation of winter weather and traditions. Share it to inspire enthusiastic discussion about the fun and beauty of winter.

Buy it: Winter Wonderland  on Amazon

7. First Snow in the Woods: A Photographic Fantasy by Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick (Pre-K–2)

Wildlife photographers Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick have several unique titles that use photographs to craft an imaginary story about woodland animals. This one portrays them busily preparing as winter approaches.

Buy it: First Snow in the Woods: A Photographic Fantasy  on Amazon

8. The Snowbear by Sean Taylor (Pre-K–2)

What if your sled didn’t stop at the bottom of the hill and took you all the way into the woods instead? This story is reminiscent of Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman , as a “snowbear” comes to life at just the right moment.

Buy it: The Snowbear  on Amazon

9. Snow by Cynthia Rylant (K–3)

This homage to snow shows how it can evoke different emotions, change the landscape, and encourage togetherness. Lauren Stringer’s striking paintings bring the text to life.

Buy it: Snow  on Amazon

10. Best in Snow by April Pulley Sayre (K–3)

Photos and snippets of text depict snow falling, melting, and freezing, making this a little different from a classic “first snow” book. The close-up photographs of winter wildlife and snowflakes on different surfaces are stunning.

Buy it: Best in Snow on Amazon

11. Mice Skating by Annie Silvestro (K–3)

Most field mice tunnel underground in the winter, but what if they didn’t? This is the tale of one mouse desperate to enjoy winter outdoors. Her unique idea to persuade her reluctant friends to join her will make everyone smile.

Buy it: Mice Skating on Amazon

12. Claudia & Moth by Jennifer Hansen Rolli (K–3)

Claudia resents the cold weather for preventing her from observing and painting her favorite butterflies. Then a moth that flies out of her sweater drawer, sparking an experience that changes her outlook.

Buy it: Claudia & Moth on Amazon

13. Shelter by Céline Claire (K–3)

Animals in the woods rush to get ready for a winter storm. When unfamiliar visitors arrive seeking shelter, no one is willing to take them in at first. The ending will give your students much to discuss.

Buy it: Shelter on Amazon

14. Blizzard by John Rocco (K–3)

This first-person narrative, based on the author’s experience during the Blizzard of 1978, helps children imagine what it would really be like to be snowed in for days. It’s a perfect writing mentor text to inspire winter stories.

Buy it: Blizzard on Amazon

15. Sleep Tight Farm: A Farm Prepares for Winter by Eugenie Doyle (K–3)

This is a different take on winter preparations. A modern-day farm family prepares for the cold and snow. The book offers lots to learn about farm life.

Buy it: Sleep Tight Farm: A Farm Prepares for Winter on Amazon

16. Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner (K–3)

A child spends the day cross-country skiing and observes animals around her. She also imagines the activities of the animals burrowed beneath the snow in this literary nonfiction masterpiece.

Buy it: Over and Under the Snow on Amazon

17. Before Morning by Joyce Sidman (K–5)

A child goes to sleep desperate for a snow day. Younger students can appreciate the story told through the unique scratchboard illustrations, and older students can work to unpack each sparse but powerful line of text.

Buy it: Before Morning on Amazon

18. Hortense and the Shadow by Natalia and Lauren O’Hara (K–5)

From the opening line about the “dark and wolfish woods,” this unique story about a girl who hates her shadow captivates readers. In the end, Hortense learns her shadow’s value in a lesson that students from kindergarten to fifth grade can discuss on multiple levels.

Buy it: Hortense and the Shadow on Amazon

19. Owl Moon by Jane Yolen (K–5)

This quiet and profound winter classic is worth revisiting every year. A girl and her father tromp into the snowy woods at night in search of a great horned owl, a journey that yields magical results.

Buy it: Owl Moon on Amazon

20. Curious About Snow (Smithsonian) by Gina Shaw (Gr. 2–5)

This readable and engaging nonfiction book looks at snow from all angles, from the formation and shapes of snowflakes to the perils of winter weather. Pair this with Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin and ditch your other lesson plans to grab some black paper and rush outside to study the first crystals that fall.

Buy it:  Curious About Snow (Smithsonian) on Amazon

21. Brave Irene by William Steig (Gr. 2–5)

Irene’s determination is unconquerable as she braves a blizzard to deliver the duchess’s gown to the castle. This book is an excellent writing mentor text for students in grades 2–5. No one does descriptive writing quite like William Steig.

Buy it: Brave Irene on Amazon

22. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (Pre-K–2)

No winter book list would be complete without Ezra Jack Keats’ classic story, which follows Peter’s adventures in the snow. As a winner of the Caldecott Medal in 1963, The Snowy Day continues to capture young children’s hearts today with its realistic events. Use this book as an introduction to Keats’ other books starring the beloved character Peter.

Buy it: The Snowy Day on Amazon

23. A Poem for Peter: The Story of Ezra Jack Keats and the Creation of The Snowy Day by Andrea Davis Pinkney  (Gr. 2–5)

Many students will fondly remember The Snowy Day from their younger years, or maybe you are just introducing it to them. Help them understand the greater significance of the book with this poetic ode to author Ezra Jack Keats.

Buy it: A Poem for Peter: The Story of Ezra Jack Keats and the Creation of The Snowy Day on Amazon

24. It’s Snowing! by Gail Gibbons (K–3)

Gail Gibbons is a master when it comes to delivering nonfiction topics to young readers in a way for them to grasp an understanding. As both the writer and illustrator, she explains different types of snow storms, regions that experience snow, snowflake properties, and more.

Buy it: It’s Snowing! on Amazon

25. The Story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder by Mark Cassino with Jon Nelson (K–3)

This book takes a deep dive through the science of snow. It explores the formation of snow crystals and how they take shape, properties of snowflakes, and more. This nonfiction book includes beautiful, up-close photographs of real snow crystals, giving readers a close-up look at this winter wonder. 

Buy it: Th e Story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder on Amazon

26. Snowy the Snowflake by Jonathan Tucker (Pre-K–2)

Meet Snowy, a snowflake born on a cold winter’s day, as she discovers the world around her. Your students will love meeting Snowy’s new friends as told through rhyme.

Buy it: Snowy the Snowflake  on Amazon

27. The Three Snow Bears by Jan Brett (Pre-K–3)

Your students will love Brett’s wintry adaptation of Goldilocks and the Three Bears . Aloo-ki the eskimo stumbles upon the biggest igloo she has ever seen while trying to save her huskies from floating off to sea on a patch of ice. She enters the igloo, which belongs to a family of polar bears, and you can probably guess what happens from there! 

Buy it: The Three Snow Bears on Amazon

28. Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin (K–5)

This true story follows the life of Wilson Bentley, a farmer who was fascinated by snow. Once his parents bought him a camera and microscope, his studies of snowflakes truly took off. At 66 years old, after spending years sharing his discoveries by word of mouth, he published his first book. He was a true pioneer in the study of the snowflake, as you will see in this Caldecott Medal winner.

Buy it: Snowflake Bentley  on Amazon

29. The Mitten by Jan Brett (Pre-K–3)

This is one of those classic picture books that’s perfect for winter. In this whimsical retelling of a Ukrainian folktale, Brett tells the tale of Nicki and his lost mitten. In her signature style, different animals encounter the mitten on the main pages, while we simultaneously see Nicki’s walk through the woods on the page margins. 

Buy it: The Mitten on Amazon

30. Sneezy the Snowman by Maureen Wright (Pre-K–2)

Sneezy the Snowman is freezing and can’t stop sneezing. In search of a cure, he drinks hot cocoa, goes in a hot tub, and stands by a fire. While this all sounds warm and cozy, poor Sneezy melts from all the heat. The kids in the neighborhood put him back together and discover a way to keep him at the perfect temperature.

Buy it: Sneezy the Snowman  on Amazon

31. There Was a Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow! by Lucille Colandro (Pre-K–2)

In this wintry installment of Colandro’s hit picture book series, an old lady swallows snow, a hat, a pipe, coal, and more seemingly random items. Kids love seeing what it all comes together as at the end of the story; there is a method to her madness!

Buy it: There Was a Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow! on Amazon

32. Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner (K–2)

In the first book of this adorable series, we find out what snowmen really do at night when we are off to dreamland. 

Buy it: Snowmen at Night on Amazon

33. Curious George in the Snow by Margaret and H.A. Rey (Pre-K–1)

George and his best buddy, the man in the yellow hat, are off on a snowy adventure in this selection from the beloved book series. During a winter sports competition, George wanders off to check out the sports equipment. As usual, he gets into mischief all over the resort, bringing lots of laughs.

Buy it: Curious George in the Snow on Amazon

34. If I Lived in a Snow Globe by Chelsea McGlothlin (K–2)

A little boy imagines what life would be like living in a snow globe in this sweet and creative story that deserves to be on any list of the best winter picture books. Use it as a mentor text for students to write their own stories imagining life in a snow globe.

Buy it: If I Lived in a Snow Globe on Amazon

35. Clifford’s Snow Day by Norman Bridwell (creator) and Reika Chan (author) (Pre-K–1)

Join everyone’s favorite Big Red Dog as he and his BFF Emily Elizabeth frolic in the snow. It is all fun and games until poor Clifford catches a cold!

Buy it: Clifford’s Snow Day   on Amazon

36. Frog and Toad All Year by Arnold Lobel (K–3)

Technically this isn’t strictly a winter book, since it covers all four seasons. But if you’re looking for winter-themed picture books for Frog and Toad lovers, this is the one. Join this dynamic duo as they explore winter and the changes that come before and after it in this classic book. This is also a great introduction to the beloved Frog and Toad series.

Buy it: Frog and Toad All Year  on Amazon 

37. Stella, Queen of the Snow by Marie-Louise Gay (Pre-K–1)

Join Stella and her younger brother Sam as they explore their neighborhood, which has transformed into a winter wonderland. This is a great introduction to this sweet picture book series loved by emergent readers.

Buy it: Stella, Queen of the Snow   on Amazon

38. Animals in Winter by Henrietta Bancroft and Richard G. Van Gelder (Pre-K–2)

This is one of our favorite winter picture books to pair with a science lesson. Take a closer look at how different animals adapt to the winter season. Find out which animals fly south for warmth, which hibernate, and which ones just keep truckin’ on in the cold rain and snow in this informative book.

Buy it: Animals in Winter  on Amazon

39. The Shortest Day: Celebrating the Winter Solstice by Wendy Pfeffer (1–4)

This beautifully written and illustrated book teaches young readers the reasons behind the winter solstice, which occurs annually on December 21. It explains how the position of the Earth toward the sun causes the shift in seasons, along with how different cultures celebrate these changes. 

Buy it: The Shortest Day: Celebrating the Winter Solstice   on Amazon

40. Winter Sleep: A Hibernation Story by Sean Taylor and Alex Morss (K–2)

Follow a little boy and his grandmother in this charming, realistic fiction tale that takes a closer look at how animals hibernate in the winter. At each stop on their walk, grandma explains which animals are hidden in the area and how they prepared for their long sleep. 

Buy it: Winter Sleep: A Hibernation Story   on Amazon

41. Gingerbread Baby by Jan Brett (Pre-K–3)

The winter queen makes a third appearance on our list with her thrilling version of the runaway gingerbread cookie. As the villagers try to capture the tasty trickster, Matti devises a clever way to capture and keep him safe. Kids especially love the surprise at the very end. Brett’s entire catalog of winter-themed books is worth checking out, including the next two books in the Gingerbread series: Gingerbread Friends and Gingerbread Christmas .

Buy it: Gingerbread Baby   on Amazon

42. An Orange in January by Diana Hutts Aston (Pre-K–3)

This cute story maps out the journey of the orange from a seed to the grocery store. Your students will be fascinated with the transformation of the orange blossom into the delicious fruit they love eating. While oranges are available year-round, students will learn that they are at their prime in the winter months. 

Buy it: An Orange in January on Amazon

43. The Snow Globe Family by Jane O’Connor (Gr. 1–3)

Here is another cute story involving a snow globe, this time featuring a family living inside of one! As they wait for someone to shake up their world for another snowfall, a baby on the outside world looks in. Can she figure out how to reach the snow globe on her own?

Buy it: The Snow Globe Family  on Amazon

Which picture books are your favorites to welcome the winter season with your class? Share them in the comments.

If you liked these winter picture books, sign up for our newsletters to be the first to know when new book lists are published.

Stephanie Sanders is a Field Editor for WeAreTeachers. She has Master's degrees in both Elementary Education and Educational Leadership. As a classroom teacher for just shy of two decades, she has experience teaching every grade level and type of learner at the elementary level.

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40 Best Picture Books About Winter

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Looking for a winter-themed picture book or ten for your children or classroom? I’ve got you covered with so many wonderful stories, beautiful illustrations, and fabulous celebrations of the winter season.

Celebrate the winter season with charming picture books about winter, snow, animals, and snowy activities.

Won’t these cozy picture books make the best read-aloud books?

The Best Picture Books About Winter

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Book Lists , Picture Book Lists · January 11, 2022

40 Sweet Picture Books About Winter and Snow

The best picture books about winter and snow are some of the most beautiful picture books you’ll find. So many of these covers blew me away — and even better, the content is so whimsical, funny, entertaining, and overall fosters a love of the cold and snowy season. If you’re on the hunt for children’s books about snow and winter, you’ll find some classics and new winners on this list. They’re perfect for your next storytime.

The Best Picture Books About Winter and Snow

Here are 40 of the best picture books about winter and snow:

The First Day of Winter

Published: October 1, 2005

Alive with swirling snow and lots of outdoor fun, the first ten days of winter bring special gifts for a special friend. This cumulative tale will have children chanting along as they discover all the trimmings needed for the most perfect snowman ever!

The Snowy Day

Published: October 28, 1976

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. Universal in its appeal, this story beautifully depicts a child’s wonder at a new world, and the hope of capturing and keeping that wonder forever. The quiet fun and sweetness of Peter’s small adventures in the deep, deep snow is perfect for reading together on a cozy winter day.

Bunny Slopes

Published: October 4, 2016

Time to tackle the bunny slope!  Shake  to help Bunny make it snow,  tilt  to help Bunny ski down the slope, and  turn  to help Bunny escape a cliff in his path. Is there any obstacle Bunny can’t conquer? Bringing grins and guffaws with each turn of the page, readers will find Claudia Rueda’s innovative bookmaking as entertaining as the twists and turns of a ski slope—and as satisfying as a cozy cup of hot cocoa.

Published: November 1, 2008

Cynthia Rylant’s lyrical descriptions of the sights and feelings evoked by falling snow blend gorgeously with the rich and beautiful world created by Lauren Stringer’s illustrations, in which a young girl, her friend, and her grandmother enjoy the many things a snowy day has to offer.

Wolf in the Snow

Published: January 3, 2017

A girl is lost in a snowstorm. A wolf cub is lost, too. How will they find their way home?

Paintings rich with feeling tell this satisfying story of friendship and trust. Here is a book set on a wintry night that will spark imaginations and warm hearts, from Matthew Cordell, author of  Trouble Gum  and  Another Brother .

Goodbye Autumn, Hello Summer

Published: September 5, 2017

As leaves fall from their trees, animals huddle against the cold, and frost creeps across windows, everyone knows―winter is on its way!

Join a brother and sister as they explore nature and take a stroll through their twinkling town, greeting all the signs of the coming season. In a series of conversations with everything from the setting sun to curious deer, they say goodbye to autumn and welcome the glorious first snow of winter in Kenar Pak’s  Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter.

The Most Perfect Snowman

Published: October 11, 2016

Drift was a very plain snowman. Every day he dreamed of wearing a stylish hat, a scarf, and mittens just like the other snowmen—and, most of all, having a pointy orange carrot nose.

Then, he knew, he would finally be perfect—and he would finally belong.

Until one special, snowy day, Drift’s deepest dreams come true.

But when dark clouds roll in and a terrible blizzard begins to blow, can Drift face giving up what he loves most and become the most perfect snowman of all?

Ten Ways to Hear Snow

Published: October 13, 2020

A snowy day, a trip to Grandma’s, time spent cooking with one another, and space to pause and discover the world around you come together in this perfect book for reading and sharing on a cozy winter day.

One winter morning, Lina wakes up to silence. It’s the sound of snow — the kind that looks soft and glows bright in the winter sun. But as she walks to her grandmother’s house to help make the family recipe for warak enab, she continues to listen.

As Lina walks past snowmen and across icy sidewalks, she discovers ten ways to pay attention to what might have otherwise gone unnoticed. 

Published: September 6, 2016

Look out. Now look up. From the sky one flake falls, then another. And just like that—it’s snowing.

In this beautiful book from debut creator Bomi Park, a young girl wakes up to the year’s first snowy day. From her initial glimpse out the window to her poignant adventures—rolling a snowman, making snow angels—the girl’s quiet quests are ones all young readers will recognize. Simple, muted text and exquisite, evocative art conjure the excitement of a day spent exploring the wonder of snow—and the magic that, sometimes literally, such a day brings. As subtly joyful as a snow day itself, this book will find its home in the hearts of young adventurers everywhere.

Winter is for Snow

Published: October 15, 2013

An ode to winter finds two siblings exploring a snowy wonderland of sledding, building snowmen, and catching snowflakes before snuggling up in the cozy warmth of their family home.

Winter Dance

Published: October 24, 2017

Snow is coming, and it’s time to get ready! The squirrel gathers nuts, the geese soar south, and the snowshoe hare puts on its new white coat. But what should the fox do? Each animal advises the fox that its own plan is best, but the fox thinks otherwise—yet it’s not until he meets a golden-eyed friend that he finds the perfect way to celebrate the snowfall.

The Little Snowplow

Published: October 13, 2015

Big trucks may brag and roar, but small and steadfast wins the day in this cheerful story with timeless appeal.

On the Mighty Mountain Road Crew, the trucks come in one size: BIG. That is, until the little snowplow joins the crew. None of the other trucks think that the little snowplow can handle the big storms, but  he  knows that he can do it—and just to be sure, he trains hard, pushing loads of gravel, pulling blocks of concrete, and doing plow lifts to get ready. But when a blizzard arrives, will the little snowplow’s training be enough to clear the streets and handle unexpected trouble? Taking its place beside classics such as  The Little Engine That Could  and  Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel,  this tale of a plucky little plow will find a clear path to readers’ hearts.

Published: October 5, 2009

When Nicki drops his white mitten in the snow, he goes on without realizing that it is missing.

One by one, woodland animals find it and crawl in; first, a curious mole, then a rabbit, a badger and others, each one larger than the last. Finally, a big brown bear is followed in by a tiny brown mouse and what happens next makes for a wonderfully funny climax.

As the story of the animals in the mitten unfolds, the reader can see Nicki’s snowy outing in the borders of each page.

In her distinctive style, Jan Brett brings the animals to life with warmth and humor, and her illustrations are full of visual delights and details faithful to the Ukrainian tradition from which the story comes.

Sneezy the Snowman

Published: October 1, 2010

B-R-R-R-R! AH-CHOO! Sneezy the Snowman is cold, cold, cold. To warm up, he drinks cocoa, sits in a hot tub, stands near a warm fire – and melts! But the children know just what to do to build him up again – and make him feel “just right”. Hilarity chills the air with playful mixed-media illustrations by Stephen Gilpin as Sneezy attempts to warm himself with some silly results.

Lost and found

Published: December 29, 2005

What is a boy to do when a lost penguin shows up at his door? Find out where it comes from, of course, and return it. But the journey to the South Pole is long and difficult in the boy’s rowboat. There are storms to brave and deep, dark nights.To pass the time, the boy tells the penguin stories. Finally, they arrive. Yet instead of being happy, both are sad. That’s when the boy realizes: The penguin hadn’t been lost, it had merely been lonely.

A poignant, funny, and child-friendly story about friendship lost . . . and then found again.

The Wish Tree

Published: September 27, 2016

Charles wants to find a wish tree. His brother and sister don’t believe there is such a thing, but his trusty companion Boggan is ready to join Charles on a journey to find out. And along the way, they discover that wishes can come true in the most unexpected ways. The poetic text and heartwarming illustrations evoke the true essence of the holiday season and will inspire wishers everywhere. This gem of a book deserves center stage year round.

Little Red Gliding Hood

Published: October 27, 2015

Little Red Riding Hood straps on ice skates in this fractured fairy tale! A figure-skating enthusiast, Little Red has worn out her skates and must win a pairs competition to earn new ones. But who will be her partner? The Dish is already skating with the Spoon, and Hansel has Gretel. You won’t believe what big eyes, sharp teeth, and furry paws her partner has . . . all the better to spin her with!

The Storyteller’s Candle/La velita de los cuentos by Lucia M. Gonzalez

Published: January 1, 2008

It is the winter of 1929, and cousins Hildamar and Santiago have just moved to enormous, chilly New York from their native Puerto Rico. As Three Kings’ Day approaches, Hildamar and Santiago mourn the loss of their sunny home and wonder about their future in their adopted city. But when a storyteller and librarian named Pura Belpré arrives in their classroom, the children begin to understand just what a library can mean to a community. In this fitting tribute to a remarkable woman, Lucía González and Lulu Delacre have captured the truly astounding effect that Belpré had on the city of New York.

The Bear Report

Published: October 6, 2015

What’s there to say about polar bears? They’re big. They’re mean. They eat things. Bor-ing. At least that’s how Sophie feels when she sits down to do her homework. But then something decidedly unboring happens—Sophie is whisked away to the Arctic by a jovial polar bear named Olafur. In a whirlwind of a day, he shows the reluctant Sophie the many brilliant things there are to see in his home, from glacier mice to the northern lights. Sophie begins to learn that the polar bear’s home is so much more than a barren, frozen land. It’s a world filled with life, adventure—and a new friend.   The Bear Report  showcases the power of curiosity to fill any blank canvas, whether it’s an incomplete homework assignment or the Arctic ice.

A Day So Gray

Published: October 29, 2019

Once you start to notice, colors and reasons for gratitude are everywhere, and that changes everything! Celebrate the hues and comforts of a cozy winter day as a discontented girl at first notices only dull grays and browns in a snowy landscape but is coaxed by her friend to look more closely. Soon she finds orange berries, blue water, purple shadows, and more. Warm friendship and a fresh way of seeing things transform a snow-covered landscape from bleak to beautiful!

Published: October 30, 2014

Blizzard  is based on John Rocco’s childhood experience during the now infamous Blizzard of 1978, which brought 53 inches of snow to his town in Rhode Island.

Told with a brief text and dynamic illustrations, the book opens with a boy’s excitement upon seeing the first snowflake fall outside his classroom window. It ends with the neighborhood’s immense relief upon seeing the first snowplow break through on their street. In between the boy watches his familiar landscape transform into something alien, and readers watch him transform into a hero who puts the needs of others first.

Mice Skating

Published: October 3, 2017

This mouse doesn’t want to stay in the house . . . even if it’s cold outside! For most field mice, winter means burrowing down and snuggling in. But not for Lucy! She loves snow crunching under her paws and wearing a fluffy wool hat. And most of all, Lucy loves to skate, and she’s just ACHING to show off her new skill with her friends. After all, a winter wonderland is twice as nice when you have friends to enjoy it with. But the other mice just don’t understand—and after a disastrous indoor snowball fight, it looks as if they never will. Can Lucy find a way to make the other mice come out and “mice skate” too?             With intricately detailed illustrations as cozy as a fireplace in December (and a cup of cocoa, too), this funny punny warmhearted love song to winter—and to one brave, bold, and generous mouse—will have kids bundling up for some cold-weather fun of their own.

When the Snow Falls

Published: October 10, 2017

A snow-day journey with Grandma highlights all of the beauty, magic, and fun of winter. With sparkling flakes calling from outside, this sister and brother bundle up for an outdoor adventure with Grandma. In the hushed woods, they see and hear wildlife thriving under a new blanket of snow.  In the bustle of town, they help their grateful Grandpa dig out. Then, it’s time to get sledding!

Snowy scenes capture the beauty of freshly fallen snow, and the lyrical verse delights in the magic of playing in the snow and the warm comfort of family.

It starts with a line. Whether made by the tip of a pencil or the blade of a skate, the magic starts there.

And magic once again flows from the pencil and imagination of internationally acclaimed artist Suzy Lee. With the lightest of touches, this masterwork blurs the lines between real and imagined, reminding us why Lee’s books have been lauded around the world, recognized on New York Times Best Illustrated Books lists and nominated for the Hans Christian Andersen Award, the highest international honor given to children’s book creators. This seemingly simple story about a young skater on a frozen pond will charm the youngest of readers while simultaneously astounding book enthusiasts of any age.

It’s Snowing!

Published: July 1, 2011

Small, soft flakes fall quietly from above. It’s snowing! People like to sled and ski in it, but what exactly is snow? How does it form? Included in this crystal clear introduction to one of winter’s wonders is information about different types of snowstorms, regions where snow falls, and how to prepare when a snowstorm approaches.

Published: September 24, 2013

While “helping” his mother with holiday housecleaning, a boy keeps a watchful eye on the progress of a winter storm. He’s hoping for a big snow. A  really  big snow. Inside, he is underfoot, turning sheet-changing and tub-scrubbing into imaginary whiteouts. Outside, flakes are flying. But over the course of a long day (for Mom) the clouds seem slow on delivering a serious snowfall. Then comes a dreamy naptime adventure, marking just the beginning of high hopes coming true in this irresistible seasonal story.

Snowmen at night

Published: September 23, 2002

Have you ever built a snowman and discovered the next day that his grin has gotten a little crooked, or his tree-branch arms have moved? And you’ve wondered . . . what do snowmen do at night? This delightful wintertime tale reveals all! Caralyn Buehner’s witty, imaginative verse offers many amusing details about the secret life of snowmen and where they go at night, while Mark Buehner’s roly-poly snowmen are bursting with personality and charm. From the highly successful team that created such winning titles as  Fanny’s Dream ,  Snowmen at Night  is fabulous, frosty, and fun!

Chirri & Chirra: The Snowy Day

Published: November 7, 2017

Book three in the charming Chirri & Chirra series, here we have foxes, bears, birds, goats, and cats all taking shelter together in an icy cavern, enjoying everything from freshly-baked delights to long soaks in hot springs. Over the course of their adventures, Chirri and Chirra even become guests to a family of bears, spending the night in their igloo and dreaming of the northern lights. A winter wonderland worth remembering for its soft radiance and abundant joy!

Sleep Big Bear Sleep

Published: January 5, 2012

It’s time for Big Bear to hibernate, so Old Man Winter keeps telling him: “Sleep, Big Bear, Sleep.” But Big Bear doesn’t hear very well. He thinks Old Man Winter has told him to drive a jeep, to sweep, and to leap. Big Bear just can’t seem to hear what Old Man Winter is saying. Finally, Old Man Winter finds a noisy way to get Big Bear’s attention. Cozy illustrations rendered in pencil and mixed media by Will Hillenbrand bring this bedtime story to a fitting conclusion.

Winter Sleep: A Hibernation Story

Published: September 17, 2019

In this cozy bedtime story, follow a child and his grandma through a winter landscape to explore how the Earth goes to sleep for winter. Spot the sleeping animals as the tale unfolds, then learn about their hibernation habits from the information pages at the end.

Co-authors Sean Taylor (picture book author) and Alex Morss (ecologist, journalist, and educator) offer  a gentle introduction to the concept of hibernation . In the frosty, quiet forest, the snow blankets the ground and the trees have shed their leaves. Where have all the animals gone? Are they asleep too?

In  each cutaway scene , see what the child cannot—that underground below his feet are  dens with sleeping creatures , and  within the hollow trunks of trees, animals are nesting . After the story, annotated illustrations explain the  hibernation facts for each animal  and what they will do when they wake up for spring.

Cozy up as you expand you and your child’s knowledge of the natural world.

The story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder

Published: October 7, 2009

How do snow crystals form? What shapes can they take? Are no two snow crystals alike? These questions and more are answered in this visually stunning exploration of the science of snow. Perfect for reading on winter days, the book features photos of real snow crystals in their beautiful diversity. Snowflake-catching instructions are also included.

Snow is falling by Franklyn Mansfield

Published: January 5, 2000 

Franklyn M. Branley and Holly Keller team up for a fun and colorful exploration of the world of snow, including experiments and activities for cold winter days. This nonfiction picture book is an excellent choice to share during homeschooling, in particular for children ages 4 to 6. It’s a fun way to learn to read and as a supplement for activity books for children.

Snow is falling. Snow is wonderful—for sledding, for skiing, and for building snowmen. But did you know that snow can actually keep things warm? Find out how snow helps plants, animals, and people to survive. But when a blizzard blows, watch out! The snow that is so useful can be dangerous too.

Sleep Tight Farm: A Farm Prepares for Winter

Published: August 2, 2016

A captivating exploration of how a family gets a farm ready for the snow of winter,  Sleep Tight Farm  lyrically connects each growing season to the preparations at the very end of the farm year. This beautiful and informative book paints a fascinating picture of what winter means to the farm year and to the family that shares its seasons, from spring’s new growth, summer’s heat, and fall’s bounty to winter’s well-earned rest. All year long the farm has worked to shelter us, feed us, keep us warm, and now it’s time to sleep.

Little Snowflake

Published: September 1, 2020

Have you ever wondered what happens to a snowflake when it falls to the ground? This beautifully illustrated story offers a perfect introduction to how snowflakes form.

Published: October 23, 1987

Late one winter night a little girl and her father go owling. The trees stand still as statues and the world is silent as a dream. Whoo-whoo-whoo, the father calls to the mysterious nighttime bird.

But there is no answer.

Wordlessly the two companions walk along, for when you go owling you don’t need words. You don’t need anything but hope. Sometimes there isn’t an owl, but sometimes there is.

Distinguished author Jane Yolen has created a gentle, poetic story that lovingly depicts the special companionship of a young child and her father as well as humankind’s close relationship to the natural world. Wonderfully complemented by John Schoenherr’s soft, exquisite watercolor illustrations, this is a verbal and visual treasure, perfect for reading around and sharing at bedtime.

Over and under the Snow

Published: October 19, 2011

Over the snow, the world is hushed and white.

But under the snow is a secret world of squirrels and snowshoe hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals who live through the winter, safe and warm.

OVER AND UNDER THE SNOW takes readers on a cross country ski trip through the winter woods to discover the secret world of animals living under the snow.

A Warm Winter Tail

Published: August 10, 2012

Do you ever wonder how animals stay warm in the winter? Well they wonder how humans do too! In a lyrical twist of perspective, wild creatures question if humans use the same winter adaptation strategies they do.

Do they cuddle together in a tree or fly south to Mexico? Take a look through an animal’s eyes and discover the interesting ways that animals cope with the cold winter months.

Winter Eyes

Published: October 28, 1999

Snowballs, ice skating,sledding! Frozen toes, icy slush,runny nose. Well, winter’s not all fun and games. But well-loved, best-selling poet Douglas Florian will melt your doubts about Mother Nature’s chilly grip with twenty-eight winter-inspired poems accompanied by his crisp, trademark watercolor illustrations. Young readers are sure to warm up to the uniquely keen vision of this wholly original volume. Whatever the time of year,  Winter Eyes  is just right for the season.

List of Notable Children’s Books in Lang. Arts 00 (NCTE) and 00 Riverbank Review Magazine’s Children’s Books of Distinction Award Nominations

Iguanas in the Snow/Iguanas en la nieve

Published: April 1, 2013

In their final collection of seasonal poetry, poet Francisco X. Alarc�n and artist Maya Christina Gonzalez invite us to celebrate winter-by the seashore, in the magic city of San Francisco, and in the ancient redwood forests of the Sierras.

We see a city where people are bridges to each other and children sing poetry in two languages. A family frolic in the snow reminds the poet of the iguanas playing by his grandmother’s house in Mexico. We are dazzled by the promise of seedling redwoods-like all children-destined to be the ancestors of tomorrow.

Artist Maya Christina Gonzalez has once again created a spirited family of children and adults who swing their way through colorful pages. Collages of old maps of Mexico and California provide intriguing backgrounds, and fun-loving iguanas peek out at us from the most surprising places.

A Big Bed for Little Snow

Pubished: October 15, 2019

When it was quiet, Little Snow grinned and then jumped, jumped, jumped!

Little Snow loves the new big, soft bed Mommy made him for the long, cold winter nights. But Mommy says this bed is for sleeping, not jumping! What happens when he can’t resist jump, jump, jumping on his new fluffy, bouncy bed?

Bestselling and award-winning author Grace Lin artfully introduces young readers to their first snow through striking illustrations and heartwarming moments.

There they are: 40 of the best picture books about winter and snow! These picture books feature winter animals and hibernation, cozy winter bedtime stories, and poetry about winter and snow. If you’ve got a few more snowy days left this year, be sure to cozy up with these winter children’s books and a cup (or cups) of hot chocolate. Which ones have you read? And which ones did I miss?

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The Best Winter Picture Books to Read with Kids

Winter is the perfect season to spend time reading aloud. With the cold & flu season, chilly weather, and short hours of sunlight, sometimes we all just need a break! Enter, winter picture books. Enjoy my curated list of the best winter picture books that will keep kiddos occupied during dreary winter days. These books are filled with bears, sledding, skiing, snow-plows, and more–all organized into one easy-to-reference booklist.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which allow me to earn a small commission when a purchase is made at no additional cost to you. Read more  here.

The Best Winter Picture Books

• books about snow
• book about winter wildlife
• wordless books
• books about winter sports

Books About Snow

You can’t have a collection of winter picture books without some snow! These five books will get you started.

Katy and the Big Snow by Virginia Lee Burton

Katy, a crawler tractor, is the pride of the city of Geoppolis. There seems to be nothing she can’t do, from pulling a steamroller out of a pond to plowing incalculable amounts of snow. When a giant snowfall descends on Geoppolis, Katy gets a chance to use her power and skill. Read and discover how she repeatedly saves the day in Geoppolis with her determination and persistence.

Small Walt by Elizabeth Verdick, illustrated by Marc Rosenthal

Walt’s dilemma is this: he is the city’s smallest snowplow and thus, consistently underestimated. When Gus, a driver, gives him a chance to plow with all his might, he is determined to prove he is up for the challenge. Snowplow aficionados (especially in the 3+ age range) will enjoy the story that ensues. The retro-style illustrations (that recall Virginia Lee Burton’s classic, Katy and the Big Snow ) are my favorite part. Ages 4-8.

Small Walt and Mo the Tow by Elizabeth Verdick, illustrated by Marc Rosenthal

Small Walt and Mo the Tow is the sequel to Small Walt featuring the same charming storytelling and illustrations. When a car slides off into the ditch on a snowy day, Small Walt and Mo the Tow (together with their drivers, Gus and Sue) must attempt a rescue. Plenty of “varroooomms”, rumble-grumbles, and engine humming to keep things exciting as you read aloud. Ages: 4-8.

Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin, illustrated by Mary Azarian

This 1999 Caldecott Medal Winner begins with “a boy who loved snow more than anything else in the world.” Mary Azarian’s woodcut illustrations paired with the biography from Jacqueline Briggs Martin make for a winter picture book that will have you amazed both at Bentley’s scientific pursuits and the wonder of snow itself. Age range: 4-8 years. Full review here .

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

The Snowy Day is a classic. From the very first pages where Peter makes tracks in the snow, “like this”, then “like that”, to further on when he brings a snowball indoors (and is confused when he can’t find it later!), children will recognize and relate to the joy that a snow-covered world brings. A delightful story and a piece of history that deserves a place in your winter picture book collection. Age range: 2-5 years (but you can really read it with any age). My rating: 5/5. Caldecott Award Winner.

Books About Winter Wildlife

For the kids who love reading about animals, these winter picks won’t disappoint!

A Bear’s Year by Kathy Duval & Gerry Turley

A Bear’s Year begins with a bear drifting into sleep for the winter. Newborn cubs are revealed, and we get to watch them grow as the seasons move forward. The book ends as it began, in winter. But, this time, mama prepares to hibernate with her cubs alongside her. “Last year’s cubs, almost grown, dream they’ll soon be on their own.” I love the sparse text paired with the sweeping illustrations. This short picture book is a great choice to wind down before bedtime or naps. Ages 3-7.

The Mitten , written and illustrated by Jan Brett

When a young boy, Nicki, loses one of his snow-white mittens, readers get to watch as curious animals start to crawl inside. Just how many animals can fit inside a child-sized mitten? You’ll have to read to the end to find out! A retelling of a classic Ukrainian folk tale, illustrated in Brett’s distinctive style. Age range: 3-5 years.

Over and Under the Snow , by Kate Messner with art by Christopher Silas Neal

A father and daughter cross-country ski through snow-covered woods discovering what is over and what is under the snow. From the first sighting of a red squirrel we learn there is a “secret kingdom” hidden underneath the surface of the snow. Readers will learn more about this and see the winter behaviors of deer, voles, bullfrogs, foxes, and more. Adults will likely learn a thing or two as they read this one as well! The age range is listed from 5-8 years, but I think kids aged 3 and 4 years (especially animal lovers) will enjoy it too.

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen and illustrated by John Schoenherr

Illustrated with watercolor scenes (that earned the book the 1988 Caldecott Medal), the author tells the poetic story of a young girl going out owling with her father. They crunch through crisp snow on a winter’s night hoping to catch a glimpse of a Great Horned Owl. Pa makes owl calls as they traipse through the cold waiting for an answer. When an owl eventually responds we experience the quiet excitement as the owling party sees what they have come for. A thoughtful, contemplative book perfect for bedtime or settling down some busy kids! Age range: 3-7.

The Snowy Nap , written and illustrated by Jan Brett

Hedgie just can’t bear to hibernate and miss winter AGAIN! But in the middle of the frostiest cold, he can hardly keep his eyes open. This is when Lisa (another recurring Brett character) finds him and rescues him. Hedgie finally gets a chance to view the wonders of winter…all from his cozy windowsill perch in Lisa’s home. Features Brett’s signature border illustrations. Age range: 4-8. Full review here .

Where Is Home, Little Pip? by Karma Wilson and illustrated by Jane Chapman

In Where Is Home, Little Pip?, we meet a small baby penguin named Little Pip. When she wanders too far from home we follow along as she tries to find her way back once again. From the author/illustrator team that created Bear Snores On , don’t miss this sweet winter picture book. Filled with rhyming songs and onomatopoeia it is well-suited to reading aloud and a heartwarming choice for bedtime. Ages 4-8. Also look for What’s in the Egg, Little Pip and Don’t Be Afraid, Little Pip.

Winter Dance by Marion Dane Bauer and illustrated by Richard Jones

“’Winter is coming,’ says the fox. ‘What should I do?’” A poetic book all about what various animals (such as a squirrel, goose, or snowshoe hare) do during winter. The fox in question is unsure about what he should do during winter. Finally, it’s another fox that points the way. Bauer is a Minnesota dweller like myself, so I particularly enjoyed her take on winter in this unique picture book. Age range: 4-7 years. Also available in a beautiful board book !

Wordless Books

How do you feel about wordless books? Sometimes I like to read Amazon reviews to get a sense of how books are working for other families. Wordless books always have at least several people who are VERY DISAPPOINTED THERE WERE NO WORDS.

But I encourage you to embrace the lack of words and the interaction with your kiddos that will ensue. Asking questions, back-and-forth, letting your child narrate, etc. These favorite winter picture books will get you started with wordless stories!

Red Sled by Lita Judge

Red Sled is a wordless picture book includes onomatopoeia words that give you something to cling to if you really can’t handle the no words thing. In this story, when a young child leaves a red sled outdoors for the night, a curious bear approaches. Next thing we know, he is taking it for a joy ride. Other animals pile on until the sled hits maximum capacity. The sled is returned, but the next day the young owner might have a few suspicions…

Wolf in the Snow by Matthew Cordell

Wolf in the Snow is a story of young girl walking home (in a lot of snow!) who becomes lost. She meets up with a wolf cub, also lost, and the way they find their way home is an adventurous (and sweet) story. The wordless format (other than the occasional onomatopoeia word) leaves lots of room to interact with the book. I love how even as the human characters are bundled up against the cold Cordell manages to portray great emotion with just bits of their faces peeking out. Winner of the 2018 Caldecott Medal.

Books About Winter Sports

Everyone needs to laugh now and then–especially when winter is droning on and on…so definitely don’t miss Chris Van Dusen’s Learning to Ski with Mr. Magee when you are choosing winter picture books!

A Day for Skating by Sarah Sullivan, illustrated by Madeline Valentine

You’ll feel the crisp chilled air and whoosh of skates in these illustrations! Rhyming couplets form the story of this sweet new book, which begins, “Mittens, boots, parka, cap. Crisp cold. Branches snap.” Skating, falling, snacking, gliding and the day grows long with the winter sport. Soon the skaters return home to thaw out and head to bed. Then, “Night grows deeper. Day is gone.” We get one more glance at the skating pond and discover a little surprise: “Now who’s skating round the pond?”. You’ll have to grab the book to see! Ages: 3-7.

Learning to Ski with Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen

“One winter morning at 6:53, Mr. Magee and his little dog, Dee, Woke to fresh snow and a beautiful sky And decided, “It’s time to give skiing a try!”

Mr. Magee jumps in wholeheartedly (with his little dog Dee in a backpack behind him!) and decides it’s time to learn how to ski. The story (all in rhyme that flows impeccably) is wildly fun. If you’re reading this aloud to your kids, you too will undoubtedly be amused as you discover the escalating adventure on each page. A wonderfully funny and wholly creative winter picture book. I love it!

Enjoy, friends! Now you tell me, what are some of YOUR favorite winter picture books?

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Best Children's Picture Books About Winter and Snow

• Children's Book Reviews
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• M.S., Instructional Design and Technology, Emporia State University
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Check out these picture books about winter and snow, including Owl Moon and The Snowy Day, to cool off in the summer and celebrate the season in winter .

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen

It's no wonder John Schoenherr received the 1988 Caldecott Medal for his Owl Moon illustrations. The story by Jane Yolen and the artwork by Schoenherr beautifully capture a child's excitement at finally being old enough to go "owling" with her father. The little girl eloquently describes their late-night walk through the cold and snowy woods.

Author Jane Yolen's words capture the mood of hushed expectancy and joy while John Schoenherr's luminous ​watercolors capture the wonder and beauty of the walk through the woods. It's apparent that the walk itself is what's important and getting to actually see and hear an owl is just the icing on the cake. Both the artwork and the text show the loving bond between father and child and the significance of their walk together.

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

Ezra Jack Keats was known for his striking mixed media collages and for his stories and was awarded the Caldecott Medal for illustration in 1963 for The Snowy Day . During his early career illustrating books for different children's picture book authors, Keats was dismayed that an African-American child was never the main character.

When Keats began writing his own books, he changed that. While Keats had illustrated a number of children's books for others, ​ The Snowy Day was the first book he both wrote and illustrated. The Snowy Day is the tale of Peter, a little boy who lives in the city, and his delight in the first snow of the winter.

While Peter's joy in the snow will warm your heart, Keats' dramatic illustrations will have you shivering! His mixed media collages include collage papers from a variety of countries, as well as oilcloth and other materials. India ink and paint are used in several ways besides the traditional ones, including stamping and spattering.

What most impresses me is the way Keats captures the effects of sunlight on snow. If you've ever been out in the snow, especially on a sunny day, you know that snow is not just white; many colors sparkle in the snow, and Keats captures that in his illustrations.

The Snowy Day is recommended for ages 3 to 6 in particular. It is one of seven picture books by Keats about Peter.

Snowballs by Lois Ehlert

Lois Ehlert is a master of collage and Snowballs is a delightful look at a variety of snow people and animals that can be made with snowballs and household items like mittens, buttons, and nuts. Snowballs is told in the words of a child who, along with the rest of the family, has "been waiting for big snow, saving the good stuff in a sack." That good stuff includes corn, birdseed, and nuts for the birds and squirrels to eat off of the snow creatures; hats, scarves, bottle caps, plastic forks, buttons, fall leaves, a man's tie, and more found objects. The photo collages feature fabric circles as snowballs that are transformed when stacked and decked out with features and accessories.

At the end of the book, there is a two-page photo feature showing all of the "good stuff," with captions, that the family used to make the snow people and animals . That spread is then followed by a four-page section about snow, including what it is and what makes it snow and featuring photographs of snowmen and other snow creatures. This book will appeal to children of all ages who enjoy playing in the snow, making their own snowballs and transforming them with good stuff.

Stranger in the Woods by Carl R. Sams

The full-page color photographs go a long way in telling the story of the Stranger in the Woods . In the woods, the bluejays caw, "Take care!" All of the animals are apprehensive because there is a stranger in the woods. The bluejays, chickadees, deer, owl, squirrels and other animals are not sure how to react. Little by little, starting with the birds, the animals in the forest follow the snow trail and come close enough to examine the stranger. They find a snowman.

Unbeknownst to them, a brother and sister had crept into the woods to build the snowman. They gave him a carrot nose, mittens, and a cap in which they make a dent so it could hold nuts and birdseed. They also left corn for the animals. A doe eats the snowman's carrot nose, while the birds enjoy the nuts and seed. Later, when a fawn finds a mitten on the ground, the animals realize that there is still another stranger in the woods.

Stranger in the Woods is a beautifully photographed, captivating book that will appeal to 3- to 8-year-olds. The book was written and illustrated by Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick, who are professional wildlife photographers. Younger children will enjoy their book Winter Friends , a board book, which also includes exceptional nature photography.

Katy and the Big Snow by Virginia Lee Burton

Young children love the story of Katy, a big red crawler tractor who saves the day when a huge snowstorm hits the city. With her big snowplow on, Katy responds to cries of “Help!” from the police chief, the doctor, the superintendent of the Water Department, the fire chief, and others with “Follow me,” and plows the streets to their destinations. The repetition in the story and the appealing illustrations make this picture book a favorite with 3- to 6-year-olds.

The illustrations include detailed borders and a map. For example, a border with illustrations of the City of Geoppolis' trucks, diggers, and other heavy equipment surrounds an illustration of the Highway Department's building where all the vehicles are kept. A map of the City of Geoppolis with lots of red numbers on it includes a border of numbered illustrations of important buildings in the city that match the numbers on the map. Virginia Lee Burton, the award-winning author, and illustrator of Katy and the Big Snow  won the Caldecott Medal in 1942 for her picture book The Little House , another classic childhood favorites. Burton's Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel is another family favorite.

Snow Crazy by Tracy Gallup

Author and illustrator Tracy Gallup celebrates the joy of snow, in Snow Crazy , an appealing little picture book. A little girl is eagerly awaiting the snow that has been forecast. She makes paper snowflakes, and she and her mother "laugh, drink hot chocolate, and stand in a [paper] snowdrift." Finally, the snow comes, and the little girl has a wonderful time playing in the snow with her friends, sledding, skating, making snow angels and building a snowman.

The illustrations are what makes this story so appealing. They feature sculpted and hand-painted dolls and props created by Tracy Gallup, who has been a professional doll maker for more than 25 years. Snow Crazy is best for 3- to 6-year-olds.

The Snowman by Raymond Briggs

The Snowman by English author and illustrator Raymond Briggs has intrigued and delighted young children since it was first published in 1978. At first sight, the book looks like a typical picture book, but it's not. While it is a fully developed story about a little boy who builds a snowman and then, in his dreams, provides an adventure for the snowman when he comes to life one night and the snowman then provides an adventure for the boy, it has an unusual format.

The Snowman is a wordless picture book, with significant comic-book aspects. The book is the size, shape, and length (32-pages) of a typical picture book. However, while it does include a few single and double-page spreads, almost all of the illustrations are done in comic-book format, with multiple panels of sequential art on each page (about 150 in all). The softly rounded panels and the misty illustrations create a sense of peacefulness that often comes after snowfalls, making it a good book to enjoy at bedtime.

In discussing his use of pencil crayons and the absence of words, Raymond Briggs said, "You can draw lightly in color, then gradually make it sharper, clearer and darker, while coloring it at the same time. Furthermore, for this book, crayon has a softer quality, ideally suited to snow.

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Wonderful Picture Books for Winter

Ahh…winter! There’s just so much to love—the stillness of the night after a blanket of snow has covered the ground; the crunch of snow underfoot; and curling up in front of a crackling fire with a blanket, a cup of tea, and a wonderful picture book for winter! And speaking of books, the books below will bring warmth to even the chilliest winter day!

Read the synopses of a few of my favorite picture books for winter below and then head to your local library with my library list .

Blizzard by John Rocco

If you haven’t experienced a New England blizzard, you’ll experience the wonder of a big one through the eyes of a ten-year-old boy in this beautifully illustrated book. John Rocco wrote Blizzard from his own vivid memories of a storm that dumped forty inches of snow on his native Rhode Island. Better bundle up for this one!

Brave Irene by William Steig

Winter is certainly a force to be reckoned with, but winter winds are no match for Brave Irene . When a brave little girl offers to venture out on an important errand for her sick mother, snow and howling winds threaten to ruin everything. Can Irene make it to the duchess’s house in time to deliver the package, or will winter win?

Geraldine’s Big Snow by Holly Keller

I’m sure you’ve heard that a watched pot never boils. Well, it’s true for little girls and snow storms, too! In Geraldine’s Big Snow , Geraldine is pining for snow, and though everyone promises the snow is coming, it seems it never will. In the end, Geraldine learns that it’s when you aren’t watching that the best things happen!

Katy and the Big Snow by Virginia Lee Burton

Katy, “the big, beautiful red crawler tractor,” is the pride of Geoppolis. Katy can do anything . And when a big snowstorm brings everything in Geoppolis to a screeching halt, it’s Katy’s big plow to the rescue! She helps the policemen protect, the mailmen deliver, and the airplanes land. Go, Katy, go!

Once Upon a Northern Night by Jean Pendziwol

Jean Pendziwol’s Once Upon a Northern Night whispers the wonders of a snowy night. Poetic charm and the breathtaking beauty of winter leap from its pages, captivating readers from the very first page until the last. Arsenault’s exquisite illustrations pay homage to the gentle yet wild cadence of life on a northern night.

One Snowy Night by Nick Butterworth

In One Snowy Night , Percy the park keeper settles in for a good night’s sleep, but alas, it is not to be! He hears a knock at the door, and then another, and before long, Percy’s house and his bed are overflowing with a menagerie of shivering forest animals! It’s not a restful night, but it is an exciting one!

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen

There’s a full moon and it’s a perfect night for owling. You might see an owl and you might not—but either way is fine since just being there is a special treat. “ When you’re owling, you don’t need words or warm, or anything but hope. That’s what Pa says. The kind of hope that flies on silent wings under a shining Owl Moon. ”

Red Sled by Lita Judge

Have you ever wondered what happens in the woods when no one is around to watch? In Red Sled , Lita Judge’s beautiful illustrations reveal what happens when a child leaves her red sled out in the snow overnight. Put on your hat and coat—you’re going to want to grab a sled and read this one again and again!

Stranger in the Woods by Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick

On a crisp winter day, the animals in the forest awake to the news that there’s a Stranger in the Woods . Soon the forest is teeming with curious visitors … is the stranger a friend? Come find out! This winter masterpiece by professional wildlife photographers Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick is one of those books you just can’t put down.

The Mitten by Jan Brett

After reading The Mitten , you may never think of mittens in the same way again. In this Jan Brett classic, a long line of forest creatures create a cozy but very crowded home for themselves inside a little boy’s lost mitten. Now if you ever spot a lost, oversized mitten, you just might wonder if anyone has been living in it lately!

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

Ezra Jack Keats’ Caldecott Medal winner, The Snowy Day , has been a staple of winter reading for 50 years. In it, Peter wakes to freshly fallen snow and does what children everywhere love to do: he bundles up and enjoys a day of snowy adventures. But beware … the best place to play with snow is outside in the cold!

Twelve Kinds of Ice by Ellen Bryan Obed

Beautiful pen-and-ink drawings illustrate Ellen Bryan Obed’s ode to Twelve Kinds of Ice . The author takes readers back to the seasons of her childhood, from autumn’s first ice— “a skim of ice so thin that it broke when we touched it” to “dream ice … the ice that came in our sleep.” It’s a not-to-be-missed treat, especially for older readers.

Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin

William Bentley longs to share the unique beauty of snow—and especially snowflakes—with the world. But how can you save something that melts as soon as you touch it? Illustrated with gorgeous woodcuts, Snowflake Bentley recounts the fascinating story of the first man to capture snowflakes on film!

Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner

When you travel through a silent, snowy landscape, it may seem as if the world is sound asleep. But this picture book takes a closer look at the abundance of winter activity that takes place Over and Under the Snow —from foxes out hunting for supper to mice scurrying through underground tunnels.

Snow Crazy by Tracy Gallup

Illustrated with charming handmade clay characters, Tracy Gallup’s Snow Crazy is the uniquely told story of a young girl waiting impatiently for the season’s first snowfall. When the long-awaited snow finally arrives, it brings with it piles of fun and adventure to be shared with friends!

Winter Eyes: Poems and Paintings by Douglas Florian

Winter Eyes: Poems and Paintings is the perfect winter read-aloud! Paired with whimsical watercolor illustrations, this beautiful collection features long poems, short poems, poems about ice fishing, sledding, burrowing animals, and more! Douglas Florian’s poems are sure to become family favorites.

A Perfect Day by Carin Berger

Whether it’s leaving the first footprints in freshly fallen snow, building the best snow fort ever, having a friendly snowball fight, or ice skating on a frozen pond, this perfect picture book is a reminder of all the fun and adventure that can be found and enjoyed on a perfect winter day.

Winter Is the Warmest Season by Lauren Stringer

Thanks to all its snow and ice, winter is known as the coldest season of the year. But the little boy in this story sees it differently. He thinks winter is the warmest season. After all, winter is the season for hats with ear flaps, footie pajamas, hot baths, and snuggling up under cozy blankets!

A Loud Winter’s Nap by Katy Hudson

Tortoise just wants to find a quiet spot for his winter nap. Is that too much to ask? Unfortunately, his attempts at slumber keep getting interrupted by snowball fights, sled construction, and singing classes. Will Tortoise ever get to take his nap, or will he discover a better way to enjoy the wintry months?

Big Snow by Jonathan Bean

Kids rarely (if ever) enjoy chores, but little David has an especially hard time concentrating on his chores when he sees the snow begin to fall! Now every chore just reminds him of the snow, and that makes him want to be out in it all the more! Could today’s snowfall be the best kind of all … a BIG snow?

The Snowy Nap by Jan Brett

Winter is coming and Hedgie the hedgehog is getting ready to hibernate. But when the other animals tell him about all the wonderful wintry activities he’ll miss while he’s sleeping, Hedgie decides he should stay awake to enjoy the fun with his friends! Will winter be everything Hedgie has heard it will be?

Wolf in the Snow by Matthew Cordell

In this beautifully illustrated wordless picture book, a young girl dressed in red gets lost in the woods on her way home from school. When she happens upon a wolf pup who has been separated from its pack, the girl helps the wolf find his way home. Will her act of kindness lead to another?

The Reader by Amy Hest

On a snowy day, a small boy and his brown dog set out on a journey with a sled and a suitcase. It’s a long trek up a steep slope in a wintry world of snowballs, snow angels, and snowflakes. But it will be well worth the trip when the boy and his dog reach the top of the hill and open the suitcase…

Bunny Slopes by Claudia Rueda

In this fun interactive picture book, a bunny invites you to join him for a day on the slopes—but he’s going to need your help! First, you’ll have to shake the snow down! And then you’ll need to tilt and turn the book to help the bunny make his way down the hill. Phew … skiing is a lot of work!

Max and Marla by Alexandra Boiger

In this adorable story of friendship and determination, two unlikely friends work toward their dreams of Olympic glory. Fortunately, Max and Marla have the perseverance to see them through numerous setbacks on their way to realizing their dream … even if it’s only in their imaginations!

A Song for Snow by Lita Judge

Winter is coming and Peep can’t wait to see the snow. Peep’s big brother Hoot tries to answer all her questions, but unfortunately, Hoot doesn’t remember everything about the snow! He knows one thing for certain, though. Snow is coming, and it is definitely worth waiting for!

Pip & Squeak by Ian Schoenherr

Two adorable mice are off on a gift-bearing adventure! They want to bring some cheese to their friend Gus, but Pip has forgotten to bring the cheese! The hunt for another gift is on as Pip and Squeak travel across a wintry landscape in search of the perfect surprise for their friend.

FREE Picture Books for Winter Library List

Would you like to read some of my favorite picture books for winter with your children? Click to download my list to take to your local library.

Looking for MORE books? You can find more great library lists here !

Winter Picture Books Recommended by Our Readers

• The Story of the Nutcracker Ballet by Deborah Hautzig (Recommended by Andrea R. via Facebook)
• The Snow Tree by Caroline Repchuk (Recommended by Kim L. via Facebook)
• No Two Alike by Keith Baker (Recommended by Lindsey W. via Facebook)
• Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson (Recommended by Nancy B. via Facebook)
• Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner (Recommended by Steph E. via blog comment)
• Sneezy the Snowman by Maureen Wright (Recommended by Steph E. via blog comment)
• Penguin and Pinecone by Salina Yoon (Recommended by Jennifer A. via blog comment)
• The Jacket I Wear in the Snow by Shirley Neitzel (Recommended by Marie via blog comment)
• 50 Below Zero by Robert Munsch (Recommended by Marie via blog comment)
• It’s Winter by Linda Glaser (Recommended by Marie via blog comment)
• Snow by Roy McKie and P.D. Eastman (Recommended by Heather via blog comment)
• Tracks in the Snow by Wong Herbert Yee (Recommended by Judy via blog comment)
• Zoo Flakes ABC by Will C. Howell (Recommended by Judy via blog comment)
• Fancy Nancy: There’s No Day Like a Snow Day by Jane O’Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser (Recommended by Judy via blog comment)
• Snowbots by Aaron Reynolds (Recommended by Amy Rose via blog comment)
• Thomas’ Snowsuit by Robert Munsch (Recommended by Tammy M. via blog comment)
• Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost (Recommended by Sara via blog comment)
• Waiting for Winter by Sebastian Meschenmoser (Recommended by Brian via blog comment)
• One-Dog Sleigh by Mary Casanova (Recommended by Gina G via blog comment)
• The Little Snowplow by Lora Koehler (Recommended by Mary M via blog comment)
• Dream Snow by Eric Carle (Recommended by Rebecca via blog comment)
• White Snow, Bright Snow by Alvin Tresselt (Recommended by Amy via blog comment)

Looking for MORE books? You can find more great library lists here!

All About Learning Press, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. All proceeds from our partnership with Amazon.com will be donated to local libraries.

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My girls have enjoyed snuggling up together and reading these books this winter!

I love this, Lindsey! What better way could there be to enjoy books than with snuggles?!

This is a great list! Thank you!

Any of Jan Brett’s winter-themed books are a hit for my kids!

Thanks, Cait. Jan Brett’s books are beautiful!

This book list has been great for our winter reading list, it can be difficult spending so much more time indoors.

I’m glad this booklist has been helpful for you during this closed-in time of year, Kayla!

Love this winter book list! Will definitely be making a trip to the library soon to check some of these out!

Glad you like this list, Kaeli! I hope you find lots to enjoy!

My children and I have been enjoying many of the books off of this list.

Thank you for letting us know your family has enjoyed many of these books, Sara!

Another great winter book is “White Snow Bright Snow” by Alvin Tresselt

Thank you for the recommendation, Amy. It looks like a sweet book!

Some of my favorites are on this list. Can’t wait to read some of the other selections.

I hope these can become your new favorites, Michelle!

Great list. So many favorites.

Your winter booklist is INCREDIBLE! Thank you for the suggestions!

What great suggestions! We dont get a lot of snow down south, so we love reading about it!

This is such a great list! We love using books with our morning time, and these are perfect for chilly winter mornings. Thanks for the great suggestions!!

Julie Henderson

I love the list of books! My students stay with me for several years at a time, so they get bored with the same old materials and books. This list is a definite help!!

I’m glad this will be helpful for you, Julie! We have lots and lots of other book review blog posts as well.

What a great list! Especially Bunny Slopes.

I love that there is a list of books a teacher can use to help them in the preschool classroom, all the work has been done for you.

Debbie, We know how overwhelming it can be to walk through a library and try to find a number of books on the same subject. Too often too many of them just aren’t great books. We hope these sorts of book lists makes finding books at least a bit easier for parents and teachers.

Sarah Echols

What a great list. I found several to check out of the library that we haven’t read!

Thank you for this list! “The Mitten is my so’s favorite book!

These look like great books! My kids love Snowy Day and Over and Under the Snow! We will have to check out the others – thanks for the great suggestions!

You’re welcome, Alicia. Enjoy!

Sara Peters

We love Owl Moon, the Mitten and the Snowy Day! Always glad to have more good suggestions!

It’s still winter in Colorado! I’ve never heard of half of these books, so I’ll be adding them to our library book list. ?

Sounds like you need some hot cocoa, blankets, and some reading time, Jana! Nothing like winter weather to make staying in with a good book sound like a wonderful idea. ?

So fun! Thanks for reminding me of some old favourites and sharing soe wonderful. Ee possibilities!

Always looking for new books! Looking forward to getting some of these mentioned.

We can’t wait to check these out! Thanks for the free download, too!

So many great books! We just read Over and Under the Snow. ?

Love all the ideas here, great books and wonderful illustrations- thanks for putting this together. Two of my favorites are Snowy Day and The Mitten

I have given all of your reading list books to our school library, hopefully we will buy many of them! Thank you.

Thanks for all the book suggestions- there are quite a few I haven’t heard of but look forward to reading.

Andrea Johnson

This is a great list! Thank you. We have and or have read most of these!

I really appreciate these book lists…they’ve been helpful resources for our homeschool curriculum.

I love your recommendations! It’s always so difficult for me to weed through all the choices. Thanks for taking the time to put this list together. :)

You’re welcome, Katey!

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100 Spectacular Winter Picture Books Your Child Will Adore

Who doesn’t love to cozy up on the sofa with a good picture book to read during the winter?

And snuggling under a fuzzy blanket makes a cozy reading moment even more precious. So grab your hot cocoa, some fuzzy blankets, and your babies because I’ve got a list of 100 winter-themed picture books for you to read.

{{This post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure .}}

Winter Picture Books About the Snow

These fantastic winter picture books are perfect to read on a snowy day.

Snow Uri Shulevitz

From Amazon: “No one thinks one or two snowflakes will amount to anything. Not the man with the hat or the lady with the umbrella. Not even the television or the radio forecasters. But one boy and his dog have faith that the snow will amount to something spectacular, and when flakes start to swirl down on the city, they are also the only ones who know how to truly enjoy it.”

Big Snow Jonathan Bean

From Amazon: “While “helping” his mother with holiday housecleaning, a boy keeps a watchful eye on the progress of a winter storm. He’s hoping for a big snow. A  really  big snow. Inside, he is underfoot, turning sheet-changing and tub-scrubbing into imaginary whiteouts. Outside, flakes are flying. But over the course of a long day (for Mom) the clouds seem slow on delivering a serious snowfall. Then comes a dreamy naptime adventure, marking just the beginning of high hopes coming true in this irresistible seasonal story.”

White Snow, Bright Snow Alvin Tresselt

From Amazon: “When the first flakes fell from the grey sky, the postman and the farmer and the policeman and his wife scurried about doing all the practical things grown-ups do when a snowstorm comes. But the children laughed and 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 book—the frost ferns on the windowsill, the snowman in the yard and the mystery and magic of a new white world.”

Snow Cynthia Rylant

From Amazon: “Cynthia Rylant’s lyrical descriptions of the sights and feelings evoked by falling snow blend gorgeously with the rich and beautiful world created by Lauren Stringer’s illustrations, in which a young girl, her friend, and her grandmother enjoy the many things a snowy day has to offer.”

Toot & Puddle: Let it Snow Holly Hobbie

From Amazon: “How do you find the best Christmas present ever for your best friend in the whole wide world? That’s what Toot is trying to find out, and Puddle is having just as much trouble. With a nod to previous books in the bestselling Toot & Puddle series, Holly Hobbie shows readers that the best kind of present for the best kind of friend is one that shows just how much you care.”

Stella: Queen of the Snow Marie-Louise Gay

From Amazon: “Stella and her little brother, Sam, are spending the day playing in the snow. The forest, snowballs, snow angels and the mysterious white stuff itself provide fuel for Sam’s questions and Stella’s answers as they discover the world of winter together.”

The Snowy Day Ezra Jack Keats

From Amazon: “Universal in its appeal, this story beautifully depicts a child’s wonder at a new world, and the hope of capturing and keeping that wonder forever. The quiet fun and sweetness of Peter’s small adventures in the deep, deep snow is perfect for reading together on a cozy winter day.”

Katy and the Big Snow Virginia Lee Burton

Katy, a brave and untiring tractor, who pushes a bulldozer in the summer and a snowplow in the winter, makes it possible for the townspeople to do their jobs.

Snow by P. D. Eastman Roy McKie

Snowy Day Anna Milbourne

Using simple text and illustrations, the sweet book describes how snow is formed and the different uses of snow.

Tracks in the Snow Wong Herbert Yee

From Amazon: “A little girl follows tracks outside her window after a fresh snowfall, only to realize that the tracks in the snow are her own from the day before―and that they lead her home. This diminutive and sweet picture book is as cozy as a cup of hot chocolate.”

There was a Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow Lucille Colandro 

There was a cold lady who swallowed some snow.I don’t know why she swallowed some snow. Perhaps you know. This time, the old lady is swallowing everything from snow to a pipe, some coal, a hat, and more! With rollicking, rhyming text and funny illustrations, this lively version will appeal to young readers with every turn of the page. And this time, there’s a surprise at the end no reader will be able to guess!

Snowflakes: 5th Anniversary Edition: A Pop-Up Boo k Jennifer Preston Chushcoff

A fun pop-up snowflake adventure that your kids will enjoy.

Winter Picture Books about Snowmen

Snowmen at Night Caralyn Buehner

From Amazon: “Have you ever built a snowman and discovered the next day that his grin has gotten a little crooked, or his tree-branch arms have moved? And you’ve wondered . . . what do snowmen do at night? This delightful wintertime tale reveals all! Caralyn Buehner’s witty, imaginative verse offers many amusing details about the secret life of snowmen and where they go at night, while Mark Buehner’s roly-poly snowmen are bursting with personality and charm.”

Snowballs Lois Ehlert

From Amazon: “Ehlert creates a wintry world with her signature style by collaging vibrant cut paper and textured found objects, like buttons, fabric, and seeds, to illuminate the most wonderful time of the year. Readers young and old will marvel at the innovation in this dazzling snow-filled tale and just might feel inspired to build their own unique snow creations.”

Snowmen All Year Caralyn Buehner

In this lighthearted, funny follow-up to the previous Snowmen bestsellers, our young narrator dreams of a non-melting snowman friend who joins him for all of the year’s events. They ride a roller coaster together, dive into a swimming pool in the summer, watch the Fourth of July fireworks, and trick-or-treat on Halloween.

The Magic of Friendship Snow Andi Cann

From Amazon: “Jojo looks around and everyone seems to have friends but her.  She feels sad and lonely.  Then, Jojo meets Puddles, the snowman made with magic friendship snow.

For every child who struggles to make friends  and parents who try to show them how, this children’s book celebrates the special bond between friends.”

All You Need for a Snowma n Alice Schertle

From Amazon: “ One small snowflake fluttering down— That’s all you need for a snowman. Or is it? In these pages, an exuberant crew is summoned to create a snowman of heroic proportions. Starting with the very first flake, Alice Schertle’s clever and energetic rhyming text details the steps these little sculptors take to create a chilly chum. Barbara Lavallee’s bold and lively illustrations overflow with brisk winter energy.”

The First Day of Winte r Denise Fleming

From Amazon: “Alive with swirling snow and lots of outdoor fun, the first ten days of winter bring special gifts for a special friend. This cumulative tale will have children chanting along as they discover all the trimmings needed for the most perfect snowman ever!”

The Biggest, Best Snowma n Margery Cuyler

Thinking she is too small to do anything in her family of big people, little Nell gets the help of her friends Reindeer, Hare, and Bear Cub in building an enormous snowman.

Frosty the Snowma n Jack Rollins and Steve Nelson

From Amazon: “A new format and classic TV art for a best-selling Christmas board book. When Frosty the Snowman was introduced in 1950 in a recording by Gene Autry, it became an instant hit. Since then, its popularity has increased every year, making Frosty one of the most recognized and beloved characters ever created. This updated edition recounts the beloved tale of Frosty — how he was brought to life one magical day and the adventures he had with the children of the town. Based on the iconic TV special, this delightfully illustrated board book will practically leap off of the shelves.”

Snowzilla Janet Lawler

From Amazon: ““It snowed without stopping for week after week. When it ended at last, Cami Lou took a peek. She bundled and booted and zipped up her brother. Let’s build a huge snowman unlike any other!” Cami Lou and her brother build the biggest, hugest, most mammoth snowman the world has ever seen. It’s Snowzilla! The snowman becomes an instant sensation, and tourists pour into the small town. But not everyone is impressed. Some say the giant snowman brings giant problems. Then a judge rules that Snowzilla must come down. Can Cami Lou and her brother save Snowzilla? “

Making a Friend Alison McGhee

Beaver is good at making just about everything…but not friends. One winter day, Beaver sees some snowflakes in the sky and gets a great idea: he’ll  make  a friend.  Yes! A snowman will be a great friend!

Raccoon passes by as Beaver sets to work and offers a helping hand. The two work side by side to give their snowman everything a friend needs.

But when the snowman proves to be a little cold, Beaver discovers that he may have unknowingly “made” another buddy instead.

Sneezy the Snowman Maureen Wright.

From Amazon: “B-R-R-R-R! AH-CHOO! Sneezy the Snowman is cold, cold, cold. To warm up, he drinks cocoa, sits in a hot tub, stands near a warm fire–and melts! But the children know just what to do to build him up again–and make him feel “just right”. Hilarity chills the air with playful mixed-media illustrations by Stephen Gilpin as Sneezy attempts to warm himself with some silly results.”

Winter Picture Books that are also Poetry

A Poem for Peter: The Story of Ezra Jack Keats and the Creation of  The Snowy Day Andrea Davis Pinkney

The story of  The Snowy Day  begins more than one hundred years ago, when Ezra Jack Keats was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. The family were struggling Polish immigrants, and despite Keats’s obvious talent, his father worried that Ezra’s dream of being an artist was an unrealistic one. But Ezra was determined. By high school he was winning prizes and scholarships. Later, jobs followed with the WPA and Marvel comics. But it was many years before Keats’s greatest dream was realized and he had the opportunity to write and illustrate his own book.   For more than two decades, Ezra had kept pinned to his wall a series of photographs of an adorable African American child. In Keats’s hands, the boy morphed into Peter, a boy in a red snowsuit, out enjoying the pristine snow; the book became  The Snowy Day , winner of the Caldecott Medal, the first mainstream book to feature an African American child. It was also the first of many books featuring Peter and the children of his — and Keats’s — neighborhood.   Andrea Davis Pinkney’s lyrical narrative tells the inspiring story of a boy who pursued a dream, and who, in turn, inspired generations of other dreamers.

Winter Bees Joyce Sidman

From Amazon: ” In this outstanding picture book collection of poems by Newbery Honor-winning poet, Joyce Sidman ( Song of the Water Boatman ,  Dark Emperor and Other Poems of the Night ) ,  discover how animals stay alive in the wintertime and learn about their secret lives happening under the snow. Paired with stunning linoleum print illustrations by Rick Allen, that celebrate nature’s beauty and power.”

Winter: An Alphabet Acrostic Steven Schnur

A vibrant alphabet book, filled with linoleum-cut illustrations, contains twenty-six acrostic poems that capture the many joys and wonders of winter, from sledding downhill on newly fallen snow to animals nestled deep in underground burrows.

Winter Eyes Douglas Florian

From Amazon: “Snowballs, ice skating,sledding! Frozen toes, icy slush,runny nose. Well, winter’s not all fun and games. But well-loved, best-selling poet Douglas Florian will melt your doubts about Mother Nature’s chilly grip with twenty-eight winter-inspired poems accompanied by his crisp, trademark watercolor illustrations.”

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Robert Frost and Susan Jeffers

From Amazon: “Ever since it was published in 1978, the picture-book presentation of Robert Frost’s poem “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” has been an enduring favorite. For this special edition with a new design, trim size, and three new spreads, Susan Jeffers has added more detail and subtle color to her sweeping backgrounds of frosty New England scenes. There are more animals to find among the trees, and the kindly figure with his “promises to keep” exudes warmth as he stops to appreciate the quiet delights of winter. “

Iguanas in the Snow: And Other Winter Poems Francisco X. Alarcon

From Amazon: “In the final installment in the series, Francisco X. Alarcón shows children a city where people are bridges to each other and children sing poetry in two languages. A family frolic in the snow reminds the poet of the iguanas playing by his grandmother’s house in Mexico. Readers are dazzled by the promise of the seedling redwoods — like all children — destined to be the ancestors of tomorrow.”

It’s Snowing! It’s Snowing!: Winter Poems (I can read level 3) Jack Prelutsky

It’s winter! The trees are bare, the days are short, and the first sparkling snowflakes are falling from the sky. Lively, warmth-filled illustrations by Yossi Abolafia enhance these sixteen delightful poems.

Snow. Snow: Winter Poems for Children Jane Yolen

From Amazon: “Jane Yolen’s wintry, shivery poems are inspired by the stunning photographs of Jason Stemple, who has captured the imagesof snow in all its breathtaking beauty. After children enjoy these poems and pictures, they will look at snow in a different way –with their imaginations as well as your eyes.”

Winter Poems Barbara Rogasky

From Amazon: “The illustrations of a Caldecott Medalist are combined with a seasonal selection of poems by twenty-five celebrated writers including William Shakespeare, Edna St. Vincent Millay, Robert Frost, Richard Wright, and Edgar Allen Poe. BOMC.”

Winter Picture Books About Animals

Animals in Winter Henrietta Bancroft

From Amazon: “Have you ever seen a butterfly in the snow? Probably not. Butterflies can’t survive cold weather, so when winter comes, many butterflies fly to warmer places. They migrate. Woodchucks don’t like cold weather either, but they don’t migrate; they hibernate. Woodchucks sleep in their dens all winter long. How do these and other animals handle the cold and snow of winter?”

Owl Moon Jane Yolen

From Amazon: “Late one winter night a little girl and her father go owling. The trees stand still as statues and the world is silent as a dream. Whoo-whoo-whoo, the father calls to the mysterious nighttime bird.

But there is no answer.

Wordlessly the two companions walk along, for when you go owling you don’t need words. You don’t need anything but hope. Sometimes there isn’t an owl, but sometimes there is.”

Over and Under the Sno w Kate Messner

From Amazon: “Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow lies a secret world of squirrels and snow hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals making their winter home under the snow. This beloved nonfiction picture book reveals the tunnels and caves formed beneath the snow but over the ground, where many kinds of animals live through the winter, safe and warm, awake and busy, but hidden beneath the snow.”

When It Starts to Snow Phillis Gershator

From Amazon: “ What if it starts to snow? What do you do? Where do you go?

What if it starts to snow. What do you do? Where do you go?” So begins this winter story, as each animal–from a mouse to a bear–tells us what it will do and where it will go when the snow starts to fall. Each takes cover in its own special home, except for one. Can you guess who?”

Stranger in the Woods Carl R. Sams

From Amazon: “Forest animals, awakened by the birds’ warning that there is a stranger in the woods, set out to discover if there is danger and find, instead, a wonderful surprise.”

Time to Sleep Denise Fleming

From Amazon: “

“Bear sniffed once. She sniffed twice. ‘I smell winter in the air. . . .'”

A chill is in the air and Bear knows it is time for her winter nap. But first, she must tell Snail. And Snail must tell Skunk. And Skunk must tell Turtle. Each animal who tries to put off going to sleep just a little longer sees, smells, hears, or tastes the signs of the impending season. Finally, Ladybug rushes off to tell Bear–already asleep in her cave–the exciting news.”

Hibernation Station Michelle Meadows

From Amazon: “Everybody at the station! It’s time for winter hibernation! The sweet rhyming text of this book will calm even the most rambunctious kids and have them dreaming about what it’s like to hibernate. Young readers will be soothed and delighted as this story introduces them to different types of hibernating animals. The creatures on the train are preparing to snuggle into sleep, although with a passenger list that includes chipmunks, bears, snakes, hedgehogs, groundhogs, frogs, turtles, mice, bats, and more, there’s a lot of noise! Will the hibernating critters ever get to sleep? Take a trip to  Hibernation Station  to find out!”

The Snowy Nap Jan Brett

From Amazon: “A chill is in the air, and as Hedgie trundles around the farm all his friends tell him of the winter-time fun he will miss as he hibernates: Icicles decorating the chicken coop! Lisa making snowmen! The pond turned to slippery ice!”

Robin’s Winter Song Suzanne Barton

From Amazon: “The forest was bustling with activity. As the red and orange leaves swirled in the wind, Robin started to worry. Something was changing. Finch was flying south, because Winter was coming. Squirrel was burying food, because Winter was coming. Even Owl was making his nest warm. Why? That’s right – because Winter was coming. Robin decided he didn’t like the sound of Winter one little bit. But that was before the snow …A beautifully tender story of a little robin’s first winter from the enormously talented creator of The Dawn Chorus.”

When Winter Comes Pearl Neuman

From Amazon: “ Where oh where do the leaves all go when winter comes and the cold winds blow? What happens to fish, flowers, field mice, and other living things when ponds freeze and the air turns blustery? Walk with a curious child and his parents as winter’s first snow falls and find out….”

Winter Picture Books About Penguins

Little Penguins Cynthia Rylant

From Amazon: “ Snowflakes? Many snowflakes. Winter is coming.  So begins this ever-so-simple story. As the snow starts to fall, the excited penguins pull out scarves, mittens, heavy socks, and boots, and Mama helps them bundle up. But when it’s time to go out, one timid penguin decides to stay home. Filled with waddling baby penguins, playful text, and delightful illustrations, this book feels like a young picture-book classic in the making.”

Tacky the Penguin Helen Lester

From Amazon: “ Tacky the Penguin  is a delightful tale about being true to yourself—even when it means being a little different from everybody else.

Tacky likes to do splashy cannonballs and greet his friends with a loud, “What’s happening?” His fellow penguins find his odd behavior somewhat bothersome.

But when fearsome poachers come to the iceberg hunting for penguins, Tacky’s odd ways may be just the thing that saves the day.”

A Penguin Story Antoinette Portis

From Amazon: “Edna the penguin only knows the three colors that surround her: white ice, black night, and blue sea. She is convinced there is something more out there. So she sets out on a quest—a quest for color. When she finally finds what she’s been looking for, it’s everything she hoped for and more. But that doesn’t mean she will ever stop looking.”

Little Penguin: The Emperor of Antarctica Jonathan London

From Amazon: “From the time the little penguin crawls out of his cracked egg, cradled on his father’s feet, until the day when he goes off to live at sea alone, he is a majestic figure in an extraordinary setting―the emperor of Antarctica. He faces natural predators and the struggles of survival in a challenging climate. Then one day, he cradles his own little penguin on his feet.”

Penguin Chick Betty Tatham

From Amazon: “An emperor penguin lays an egg on the Antarctic ice. In the bitter cold, miles away from the only source of food, how can the chick survive? A father penguin keeps his mate’s egg warm by balancing it on his feet for two entire months. Learn how penguin parents take care of their babies in one of Earth’s coldest, most desolate environments.”

My Penguin Osbert Elizabeth Cody Kimmel

From Amazon: “This year, I was very specific in my letter to Santa Claus.

Each year at Christmas, Joe writes a letter to Santa. But they’ve had a few misunderstandings in the past. Last year, for example, Joe wanted a fire-engine-red racecar with retracting headlights, and he did get one — but it was only three inches long. So this year Joe is really, really careful. He describes exactly what he wants — and on Christmas morning, guess what’s waiting for him under the tree! Santa has brought him a living, breathing, black-and-white penguin named Osbert. Will anything in Joe’s life ever be the same?”

Busy Penguins John Schindel (board book)

From Amazon: “These busy penguins are dashing, splashing, jumping, bumping, and going about their busy penguin lives. Young children will love to imitate the many actions the penguins are doing, while the vivid, full-color photographs will keep them engaged time after time. Join in the fun!”

Blue Penguin Petr Horacek

From Amazon: “Far away, near the South Pole, a blue penguin is born. It is not something you see every day. “I feel like a penguin,” says Blue Penguin. “But you’re not like us,” the others tell him. Blue Penguin can’t jump or dive very well, so the others wander off and leave him behind. In his loneliness, Blue Penguin begins to dream, and he starts to sing. Will he ever convince the other penguins that he is one of them?”

Penguin and Pinecone Salina Yoon

From Amazon: “When curious little Penguin finds a lost pinecone in the snow, their friendship grows into something extraordinary! But Grandpa reminds Penguin that pinecones can’t live in the snow–they belong in the warm forest far away. Can Penguin help Pinecone get home? And can they stay friends, even if they’re miles apart?”

365 Penguins Jean-Luc Fromenta

From Amazon: “The family in  365 Penguins  finds a penguin mysteriously delivered to their door every day for a year. At first they’re cute, but with every passing day, the penguins pile up—along with the family’s problems. Feeding, cleaning, and housing the penguins becomes a monumental task. They’re noisy and smelly, and they always hog the bathroom! And who on earth is sending these  kwak -ing critters?”

Winter Picture Books: Non-Fiction

Winter Wonderland Jill Esbaum

From Amazon: “Each year, as days grow shorter and trees become bare, the world outside seems to slow and darken. But for children, this time of year is magical. The frosty air crackles with play and laughter. There’s a sense of excitement as snow and cold weather make for outdoor adventures that aren’t possible any other time of year. This charming picture book, the latest in National Geographic’s popular Picture the Seasons series, is a vibrant celebration of winter traditions. Winter means family, as loved ones travel many miles to visit. Holiday events bring a spark of warmth and togetherness that seems to happen only in winter. Twinkling lights and colorful displays bring cheer and goodwill. Glowing candles invite visitors to share a festive meal. Frosty weather outside draws lacy patterns on the windowpanes.”

The Story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder Mark Cassino

From Amazon: “How do snow crystals form? What shapes can they take? Are no two snow crystals alike? These questions and more are answered inside this exploration of the science of snow, featuring photos of real snow crystals in all their beautiful diversity. Perfect for reading on winter days, this book by a nature photographer and a snow scientist will inspire wonder and curiosity about the marvels of snow. Snowflake-catching instructions are also included for aspiring young snow scientists!”

Curious about Snow Gina Shaw

From Amazon: “When does it snow? Why is snow white? How do we know no two snowflakes are alike? (Hint: the proof is in the photographs, first made in the 1890s!) With full-color photographs and the Smithsonian’s famous Wilson Bentley snowflake photos, this new  Curious About  title looks at the science behind snow, and the history of record-setting blizzards and snowstorms—plus how people have fun in the snow!”

Snowflake Bentley Jacqueline Briggs Martin

From Amazon: “Wilson Bentley was always fascinated by snow. In childhood and adulthood, he saw each tiny crystal of a snowflake as a little miracle and wanted to understand them.

His parents supported his curiosity and saved until they could give him his own camera and microscope. At the time, his enthusiasm was misunderstood. But with patience and determination, Wilson catalogued hundreds of snowflake photographs, gave slideshows of his findings and, when he was 66, published a book of his photos. His work became the basis for all we know about beautiful, unique snowflakes today.”

Snowflake: Winter’s Frozen Artistry Kenneth Libbrecht and Rachel Wing

From Amazon: “The snow may seem unvaried to the naked eye, but  the microscope reveals an amazing menagerie of beautiful crystalline forms . Building on the pioneering work of Wilson Bentley (1865-1931), Libbrecht has developed techniques for capturing images of snow crystals in unprecedented detail.”

Migration Robin Nelson

From Amazon: “What does it mean to migrate? Discover which animals migrate and why they migrate through detailed photographs and simple text.”

Winter (First Step Non-Fiction) Tanya Thayer

From Amazon: “Taking a brief look at each of the four seasons, this delightful series introduces beginning readers to the basic idea of seasons and how animals, plants, and people adapt to them. Crisp, close-up photography teams with easy-to-understand, repetitive sentences that encourage new readers to discover the world–one season at a time.”

Snow is Falling (Let’s Read and Find Out Science) Dr. Franklyn M. Branley

From Amazon: “Snow is wonderful—for sledding, for skiing, and for building snowmen. But did you know that snow can actually keep things warm? Find out how snow helps plants, animals, and people to survive. But when a blizzard blows, watch out! The snow that is so useful can be dangerous too.

Franklyn M. Branley and Holly Keller team up for a fun and colorful exploration of the world of snow, including experiments and activities for cold winter days.”

It’s Snowing Gail Gibbons

From Amazon: “Small, soft flakes fall quietly from above. It’s snowing! People like to sled and ski in it, but what exactly is snow? How does it form? While it is believed that no two snowflakes look exactly alike, most have either six sides or six points. included in this crystal clear introduction to one of winter’s wonders is information about different types of snowstorms, regions where snow falls, and how to prepare when a snowstorm approaches.”

Winter Picture Books about Christmas

Night Tree Eve Bunting

From Amazon: “By moonlight in the quiet forest, a young boy and his family decorate their favorite tree with popcorn, apples, tangerines, and sunflower-seed balls as a gift for the animals of the woods.”

The Little Fir Tre e Margaret Wise Brown

From Amazon: “Once there was a tree that stood in a field away from the other trees. It longed to be part of the forest—or part of anything at all. After many lonely years, its dream came true. And the little fir tree’s life changed forever!

They put golden tinsel on his branches And golden bells And green icicles And silver stars. And soon—o shining wonder—the little fir tree was . . . A Christmas tree

Celebrate the true spirit of Christmas with heartwarming text by the author of  Goodnight Moon  and exquisite, glowing paintings by award-winning artist Jim LaMarche.”

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey Susan Wojciechowski

Jonathan Toomey is the best woodcarver in the valley, but he is always alone and never smiles. No one knows about the mementos of his lost wife and child that he keeps in an unopened drawer. But one early winter’s day, a widow and her young son approach him with a gentle request that leads to a joyful miracle.

Christmas Day in the Morning Pearl S. Buck

From Amazon: “Rob wants to get his father something special for Christmas this year—something that shows how much he really loves him. But it’s Christmas Eve, and he doesn’t have much money to spend. What could he possibly get? Suddenly, Rob thinks of the best gift of all…”

Christmas Farm Mary Lyn Ray

From Amazon: “When Wilma decides her garden needs a new beginning, she gathers string, scissors, shovels, sixty-two dozen balsam seedlings, and Parker, her five-year-old neighbor. Year after year, Wilma and Parker nurture their trees, keeping careful count of how many they plant, how many perish, and how many grow to become fine, full Christmas trees. A cozy, holiday read-aloud and a lyrical way to usher in the month of December.”

Bear Stays Up for Christmas Karma Wilson

From Amazon: “Bear’s friends are determined to keep Bear awake for Christmas! So they wake Bear up and have him help them find a Christmas tree, bake cakes, hang up stockings, and sing Christmas songs. Bear stays up—by discovering that giving is one of the best Christmas presents of all!”

The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree: An Appalachian Story Gloria Houston

From Amazon: “This unforgettable tale, illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Barbara Cooney, has become a seasonal classic-a touching and joyful story about courage and the power of family.”

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Dr. Suess

From Amazon: “Originally published in 1957 using just 2 different colored inks (red and black), this new, jacketed edition features Dr. Seuss’s original illustrations in full color for the very first time—the way he’d have likely colored them had he published the book today!”

Red and Lulu Matt Tavares

From Amazon: “Red and Lulu make their nest in a particularly beautiful evergreen tree. It shades them in the hot months and keeps them cozy in the cold months, and once a year the people who live nearby string lights on their tree and sing a special song:  O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree.  But one day, something unthinkable happens, and Red and Lulu are separated. It will take a miracle for them to find each other again. Luckily, it’s just the season for miracles.”

The Twelve Days of Christmas Alison Jay

From Amazon: “Alison Jay’s signature crackle-glaze technique makes this illustrated version of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” luminous and magical: animals dart across the pages, ladies dance, lords leap, and wintery landscapes sparkle against warm, cozy scenes. With hidden surprises on every page, this is a book for the whole family to treasure and sing along to!-year after year.”

The Little Reindee r Nicola Killen

From Amazon: “When a jingling sound wakes her from her sleep, a little girl’s dreams come true when she meets a lost reindeer in the forest. They set off on a magical adventure and it becomes a Christmas never to forget. Nicola Killen’s evocative illustrations are sure to enchant in this beautiful book with die cut pages, foil, and flashes of festive red.”

Pick a Pine Tree Patricia Toht

From Amazon: “Part of the magic of the Christmas season stems from the traditions that families and friends take part in every year: hanging up stockings; putting lights in the windows; and, one of the most important of all, picking out and taking home the Christmas tree. With style and warmth, debut author Patricia Toht and Jarvis, the author-illustrator of  Alan’s Big, Scary Teeth,  evoke all the rituals of decorating the tree — digging out boxes jam-packed with ornaments and tree trimmings, stringing tinsel, and, at long last, turning on those twinkling lights.”

Arctic Christmas: A Very Cool Pop-Up Book Janet Lawler

From Amazon: “Arctic animal friends are joined by some special visitors from the South Pole for a very cool Christmas celebration. Seven spreads featuring charming illustrations, pop-ups and interactive elements by the award-winning creative team make this a book to be enjoyed by all ages – again and again!”

Winter Picture Books about the Winter Solstice

The Winter Solstice Ellen Jackson

From Amazon: “The winter solstice―the shortest day of the year―marks the beginning of the coldest, darkest season. Discover the scientific reasons for this phenomenon and learn how cultures past and present have celebrated it.”

The Shortest Day: Celebrating the Winter Solstice Wendy Pfeffer

From Amazon: “The beginning of winter is marked by the solstice, the shortest day of the year. Long ago, people grew afraid when each day had fewer hours of sunshine than the day before. Over time, they realized that one day each year the sun started moving toward them again. In lyrical prose and cozy illustrations, this book explains what the winter solstice is and how it has been observed by various cultures throughout history.”

The Return of the Light: Twelve Tales from Around the World for the Winter Solstice Carolyn McVickar Edwards

From Amazon: “Storyteller Carolyn McVickar Edwards retells twelve traditional tales-from North America, China, Scandinavia, India, Africa, South America, Europe, and Polynesia-that honor this magical moment. These are stories that will renew our wonder of the miracle of rebirth and the power of transition from darkness into light.”

Yule: A Celebration of Light and Warmth Dorothy Morrison

From Amazon: “There’s just something magical about the Yuletide season, no matter where you live or who you are. As bright candlelight mingles with the smells of pine and warm cookies and we perform our yearly rituals of song and family gatherings, the spirit of peace and goodwill seems to reach the heart of even the most cynical Scrooge.”

A Solstice Tree for Jenny Karen Shragg

From Amazon: “It’s Christmas time all across America and Jenny is feeling left out. Her secular parents, born to different faiths that they no longer observe, don’t believe in celebrating Christmas. She never seemed to mind before, but this year it bothers her–maybe because they’re home and not on the Florida coast where they usually go at this time of the year to avoid the holiday hoopla. All around her the neighbors have decorated their houses with festive lights, while her house by contrast looks drab and uninviting during the long, cold winter nights. Itfs made her feel like an outsider.

Why does her family have to be different? She talks with her mom and dad about their reasons for not observing the holidays. Then one day a teacher gives her “an awesome idea”: she tells Jenny about the winter solstice and ancient traditions among many peoples of the northern hemisphere who celebrate this shortest day of the year in anticipation of the longer, warmer, and brighter days of the coming spring. Why don’t we celebrate the winter solstice, too? Jenny wonders.

Her parents can’t help but agree and a few days later they bring home a potted pine from the local nursery for the living room. What fun they all have placing their special decorations on the solstice tree. And best of all, Jenny can now invite any of her friends, no matter what their religious backgrounds are, to admire her beautiful tree. Everyone can participate!”

The Solstice Badger Robin McFadden

From Amazon: “The Solstice Badger tells the tale of the days when the Sun shone all day long, every day. In the beginning, The Sun roamed the earth happy and filled with joy, but eventually he became terribly lonely and sad, and his light began to dim. Aware of his plight, many of the earth’s creatures tried to befriend the Sun, only to find his intense heat burned, and prevented them from getting too close. To the Sun’s great joy, one day there came a creature that found a way to get close to the sun, and soon the two became great friends. Staying longer and longer each day with his friend, the Sun’s absence from the sky eventually caused the skies to darken and snow to fall. All living things suffered. Would the Sun realize his impact on the world’s suffering before it was too late? Would he have to leave his only friend and new found happiness forever in order to to save the world? “

More Winter Picture Books

Flannel Kisse s Linda Crotta Brennan

Three Snow Bears Jan Brett

From Amazon: “When Aloo-ki glances up from fishing and sees her sled dogs floating off on an ice floe, she races after them. She comes upon an igloo with no one home and goes inside.

Turns out the polar bear family who lives there is out walking while their breakfast cools off. Aloo-ki eats some soup, tries on their boots, and finally crawls into the smallest bed for a nap. Meanwhile, Papa, Mama, and Baby Bear see her dogs adrift, swim out to rescue them and return home to find Aloo-ki fast asleep in Baby Bear’s bed.”

The Story of the Snow Children Sibylle von Olfers

From Amazon: “Poppy is gazing out of the window at the snow when suddenly she sees that the snowflakes are really Snow Children, dancing and whirling in the garden. Soon, they whisk her away to the Snow Queen’s wintry kingdom.”

The Mitten Jan Brett

From Amazon: “When Nicki drops his white mitten in the snow, he goes on without realizing that it is missing.

One by one, woodland animals find it and crawl in; first, a curious mole, then a rabbit, a badger and others, each one larger than the last. Finally, a big brown bear is followed in by a tiny brown mouse and what happens next makes for a wonderfully funny climax.

As the story of the animals in the mitten unfolds, the reader can see Nicki’s snowy outing in the borders of each page.”

Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter Kenard Pak

From Amazon: “Join a brother and sister as they explore nature and take a stroll through their twinkling town, greeting all the signs of the coming season. In a series of conversations with everything from the setting sun to curious deer, they say goodbye to autumn and welcome the glorious first snow of winter in Kenar Pak’s  Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter. “

Secrets of Winter: A Shine a Light Book Carron Brown

From Amazon: “This beautifully illustrated book will introduce children to the joys of nature, and show them what wonderful secrets are revealed if you just look a little closer. Who is out and about during wintertime? Shine a light behind the pages and discover a natural winter world full of surprises! The clever see-through reading technique creates an experience of interactive learning, showing both the surface and what is hidden underneath at the same time.”

Walking in a Winter Wonderland Richard B. Smith

From Amazon: “ Sleigh bells ring, are you listening  . . . Tim Hopgood’s joyful and colorful illustrations show all the wonders of winter―snowmen and sleigh rides, sweaters and smiles. Follow a family on their walk through snowy scenes. A beautiful and festive celebration of the season―perfect for sharing!”

Blizzard John Rocco

From Amazon: “ Blizzard  is based on John Rocco’s childhood experience during the now infamous Blizzard of 1978, which brought fifty-three inches of snow to his town in Rhode Island. Told with a brief text and dynamic illustrations,  t he bookopens with a boy’s excitement upon seeing the first snowflake fall outside his classroom window. It ends with the neighborhood’s immense relief upon seeing the first snowplow break through on their street. In between the boy watches his familiar landscape transform into something alien, and readers watch him transform into a hero who puts the needs of others first. “

The Nutcracker Susan Jeffers

From Amazon: “Join Marie, Fritz, and the intriguing Nutcracker himself on a magical Christmas Eve adventure. Behold the frightful Mouse King, the elegant Sugar Plum fairies, and the entire Land of Sweets in this dazzling, gorgeously illustrated holiday classic. With spare text based on the story in the ballet, this book offers a front-row seat to the enthralling tale that is a perennial favorite of adults and children alike.”

Wordless Winter Picture Books

Red Sled Lita Judge

From Amazon: “In this almost wordless picture book, a host of woodland creatures take a child’s sled for a nighttime joy ride. Their whimsical ride is gorgeously depicted in bold watercolor, complemented by humorous expressions and pitch-perfect sound effects. With a timeless tone and classic characters, RED SLED will become a wintertime favorite.”

Winter Gerda Muller

From Amazon: “Full of fun, active illustrations, this chunky board book shows the joys of shovelling snow, ice-skating, feeding the birds, and being cozy inside with the Christmas tree.”

The Snowman Raymond Briggs

From Amazon: “A little boy rushes out into the wintry day to build a snowman, which comes alive in his dreams that night. The experience is one that neither he nor young ‘readers’ will ever regret or forget.”

Wolf in the Snow Matthew Cordell

From Amazon: “Paintings rich with feeling tell this satisfying story of friendship and trust.  Wolf in the Snow  is a book set on a wintry night that will spark imaginations and warm hearts, from Matthew Cordell, author of  Trouble Gum  and  Another Brother .”

Flora and the Penguin Molly Idle

From Amazon: “Having mastered ballet in  Flora and the Flamingo , Flora takes to the ice and forms an unexpected friendship with a penguin. Twirling, leaping, spinning, and gliding, on skates and flippers, the duo mirror each other’s graceful dance above and below the ice. But when Flora gives the penguin the cold shoulder, the pair must figure out a way to work together for uplifting results.”

Snowman’s Story Will Hillenbrand

One wintry day, a hat lands on the head of a newly made snowman and brings him to life. Hiding inside the hat is a rabbit, who listens to the snowman read a story to some animal friends. When the snowman falls asleep, the rabbit hops away with the book. But the snowman isn’t about to let his story―or the mischievous rabbit―get away. The chase is on!”

The Snow Rabbit Camille Garoche

From Amazon: “Two sisters look longingly through their window at the snowy sky. One goes out and sculpts a little rabbit, but when she brings it back inside to her wheelchair-bound sister, it begins to melt. So they take it outside and into the forest where enchanted things begin to happen.”

More Winter Book Lists and Activities You Won’t Want to Miss

Winter poetry teatime, winter-themed chapter books for kids, middle school books to read this winter.

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12 Snow Picture Books to Read on Winter Snow Days

One More for Christmas is an uplifting tale following businesswoman Gail as she summons her estranged family to spend a snowbound Christmas together in Scotland.

Looking for snow picture books? As a child of California, I grew up fascinated by snow. Earthquakes. Drought. El Niño Flooding. Forest Fires. I knew all about those. But snow? It was a magical, foreign concept to me. I never even had a winter coat until I moved to the east coast when I was 11. What was most fascinating part of snow? Snow days, of course. Whether stuck inside because of snow or celebrating the natural world, here is a list of 12 books perfect for reading together on snow days or all winter long.

Classic Snow Picture Books

The Snowman by Raymond Briggs

This wordless picture book shows how illustrations alone can tell a whole story. It was even made into a half hour animated show in 1982. These delightful, pencil crayon drawings show a young boy going on escapades with a snowman that’s come to life. They end with the snowman melting and the boy learning to mourn the loss and keep the memory of his friend alive.

Owl Moon b y Jane Yolen and John Schoenherr

With sparse language and soft watercolor illustration, celebrated children’s book author Jane Yolen tells the story of a father and daughter walking through the woods looking for owls. In the still, snowy night the father calls “Whoo-whoo-whoo” into the silence. It’s a mystery whether or not an owl will call back. This book is a celebration of humans’ relationships with the natural world. It’s been a bedtime favorite for over 30 years!

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

No list of snow picture books would be complete without this beloved winter classic. The bold shapes and colors bring readers a winter city landscape through the eyes of young Peter and his iconic snow suit. It was a groundbreaking book for being one of the first picture books featuring a Black child as a main character and refraining from using negative stereotypes popular in children’s literature at the time. Along with the Caldecott medal, it has the distinction of being the most checked out book in the New York Public Library’s 125 year history.

A Poem for Peter: The Story of Ezra Jack Keats and the Creation of The Snowy Day by Andrea Davis Pinkney, Steve Johnson, and Lou Fancher 

This book (with a long title) doesn’t really belong in the classic snow picture books section. It was published in 2016! But I put it here because it makes such a nice pairing with its predecessor: The Snowy Day . Using poetic language, Andrea Davis Pinkney tells the story of Ezra Jack Keats’s life, starting as the child of Polish immigrants in New York City over 100 years ago. The story focuses on how his own experiences with being different and antisemitism lead him to create the character of Peter in his most iconic work. It also discusses how this character paved the way for more characters and creators of color. This book is a true celebration of Ezra Jack Keats. It’s also on the longer side, great for a long chunk of time or older elementary school kids to practice their reading.

Contemporary Snow Picture Books for Kids

Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter by Kenard Park

A brother and sister take a walk, noticing the differences between autumn and winter. From leaves falling off the trees to birds flying south to winter flowers sprouting out of the ground, they say goodbye to fall and give each sign of the new season an enthusiastic “hello!”

Little Mole’s Wish by Sang-Keun Kim, Translated by Chi-Young Kim 

Translated from Korean, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story of Mole, who is new in town and very lonely. One day, he rolls a snowball all the way to the bus. Along the way, the tells the snowball his worries and secrets. When the bus driver won’t let the snowball on the bus, Mole forms his friend into a bear as a disguise. When Mole’s friend doesn’t survive the warm bus ride home, he’s distraught. But with the help of his grandmother, and maybe a little magic, Mole finds his friend again.

A Big Bed for Little Snow by Grace Lin

This modern day fable seeks a mythical explanation for why it snows. Little Snow’s mother fills his bed with feathers. But Little Snow would rather jump on the bed than sleep on it. And when he jumps extra high, a big bunch of feathers fall out leading to a blizzard down below. This is a sweet snow-themed companion to A Big Mooncake for Little Star that will delight kids’ imaginations.

Tracks in the Snow by Wong Herbert Yee

A little girl sees mysterious footsteps in the snow outside her house. She follows them wondering who made them and where they are leading. But when they bring her in a loop back home, she realizes they are the tracks she made yesterday. A very cozy book perfect for reading after a snow day exploration.

A Day So Gray by Marie Lamba and Alea Marley 

The girl in this book is tired of winter. At first, she can only see the gray and brown colors. Wherever she looks things are blah, boring, and bland. But her friend sees beauty in everything around them. She notices orange berries, purple shadows in the snow, and more. This story presents two ways of looking at winter. The acceptance that we will all have days where we can only see the gray. And the encouragement for looking on the bright side and trying to see the beautiful details that are easy to overlook.

Nonfiction Snow Picture Books

Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner and Christopher Silas Neal

Mixing scientific information with stark, beautiful illustrations, this book examines what in nature exists above and (most excitingly) below the snow. While above the snow, everything looks peaceful and quiet, there is a whole secret world of animals living below the white, frozen blanket. From bullfrogs to bears and squirrels to snow hares (yes I rhymed, the book does not), many animals live through the winter safe and warm under the snow.

The Story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder by Jon Nelson and Mark Cassino

A nature photographer and a snow scientist answer all the questions young readers might have about snow. Starting with clouds, step by step they explain the entire life cycle of a snow flake. The up close photographs of actual snow crystals are particularly fascinating to look at!

Animals in Winter by Henrietta Bancroft and Richard G. Van Gelder and Helen K. Davie

This nonfiction picture book step by step goes through what different animals do to survive the winter. Some move south. Other hibernate or collect food to last them through the long season. Even though they might be different, every animal has a plan. Beautiful illustrations are accompanied by informational text that covers a wide variety of animals.

This year, with the pandemic, winter can feel bleaker than ever. I hope you and the young readers in your life can find some celebration and understanding of the season through these cozy, informative snow picture books. And once you work your way through these, if you are still looking for more try these winter books for preschoolers .

Also In This Story Stream

• 5 Winter Mysteries That are Cozier Than a Cup of Tea
• Curl Up With These Winter-Themed Manga
• 10 Winter Hibernation Cookbooks to Make You Drool
• 9 Magical, Winter Fantasy Books to Read Under a Warm Blanket
• 10 Holiday Romances to Read This Winter
• Classic Comics for a Winter’s Night
• 10 Chilling Books Set During Winter
• 9 Great Books Set in Very Cold Places

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Everyday Reading

15 Delightful Children’s Books about Winter

Once the Christmas picture books are put away, I’m always hungry for a new set of seasonal books.

Especially now that we live somewhere with actual winter weather, it only seems right to collect a big stack of children’s books about winter and snow.

If you are always excited for seasonal books, pop in your email address and I’ll send you a list of the best spring picture books!

Pulling these books out reminded me of when Ella was about five (we lived in Arizona) and after reading   First Snow   together, Ella asked me, “Is snow real or just in books?”

No matter what your weather is like, I hope you’ll love these children’s books about winter as much as we do!

And obviously they’re all best accompanied by a mug of hot cocoa.

Any other favorite children’s books about winter I missed? Leave them in the comments!

If you liked this list of  children’s books about winter, you might also enjoy these posts:

• Our favorite I Spy books (perfect for long afternoons inside!)
• 30 books to read aloud to preschoolers and kindergarteners
• 10 Fantastic Princess Books Worth Reading

Photos by Heather Mildenstein

Reader Interactions

January 17, 2019 at 8:03 am

We love Katy and the Big Snow by Virginia Lee Burton and The Mitten by Jan Brett

January 14, 2021 at 9:17 am

The Snowman by Raymond Briggs! My absolute favorite winter book.❄️⛄️

January 18, 2019 at 12:49 pm

I love all the versions of The Mitten! We have the popular one by Jan Brett but also copies of the ones by Alvin Tresselt and Jim Aylesworth.

January 18, 2019 at 1:23 pm

The wish tree!

January 14, 2021 at 9:15 am

As a former first grade teacher and Nana of two young granddaughters, I’d also recommend these books from my own winter collection. Ditto on Katy & the Big Snow and The Mitten stories, Stella Queen of the Snow (Marie-Louise Gay), Snow (Uri Shulevitz), Caldecott winner Owl Moon (Jane Yolen), Axle Annie (Robin Pulver), Mrs. Toggle’s Zipper (Robin Pulver), and Stranger in the Woods – A Photographic Fantasy (Carl R. Sams II & Jean Stoick)……..ALL are wonderful books that will delight your readers.

January 22, 2021 at 10:53 am

We love A Loud Winter’s Nap by Katy Hudson! So cute!

January 23, 2021 at 7:58 am

Janssen, I loved your winter list of picture books. I’m glad that you appreciate an older book like The Snowy Day. I was a children’s lit professor and elementary teacher so I can appreciate the books that made your list – good job! One side note – I always read Snowflake Bentley to my classes and love the story and illustrations. I found a book by Bentley that was a collection of his photographs of snowflakes. It’s just page after page of beautiful snowflake images – amazing! I appreciate your efforts! Tom

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Picture-books in Winter

Get the passage & questions on one printable PDF.

Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

“A Child’s Garden of Verses” is Robert Louis Stevenson’s compilation of his charming poems for children. This poem celebrates the way a picture book can take the reader away to enchanting places on a cold winter’s day. Student’s will respond to questions on the language and the theme after reading the poem.

Topic(s): Realistic Fiction. Skill(s): Theme, Figurative Language. Genre(s): Poetry

Summer fading, winter comes- Frosty mornings, tingling thumbs, Window robins, winter rooks, And the picture story-books.

Water now is turned to stone Nurse and I can walk upon; Still we find the flowing brooks In the picture story-books.

All the pretty things put by, Wait upon the children’s eye, Sheep and shepherds, trees and crooks, In the picture story-books.

We may see how all things are, Seas and cities, near and far, And the flying fairies’ looks, In the picture story-books.

How am I to sing your praise, Happy chimney-corner days, Sitting safe in nursery nooks, Reading picture story-books?

1. List three words in the poem that rhyme with “books.”

2. What does the poet mean when he says, “Water is now turned to stone”?

3. “Sheep and shepherds” is an example of alliteration. Find another one in the poem.

4. What is one thing the poet says he sees in the books?

Example of correct answer: nooks, rooks, brooks

The water has frozen and turned to hard ice.

Example of correct answer: flying fairies’

Example of correct answer: “cities near and far”

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Nourishing My Scholar

Favorite Winter Picture Books

January 12, 2023 by Erin Vincent 8 Comments

Cozy up with over 20 of our favorite winter picture books for kids! These books are sure to warm and excite your little ones as they dive into stories of snow, ice, nature, and family.

Favorite Winter Picture Books for Kids

Do your kids devour books? Here are some of my children’s absolute favorite books to read throughout winter! I’m sure they’ll become favorites in your home too.

Snowflake Bentley   by  Jacqueline Briggs Martin  

The Story of Snow by Mark Cassino with Jon Nelson, Ph.D.

Snow   by  Uri Shulevitz

Over and Under the Snow   by  Kate Messner 

The Big Snow   by  Berta Hader

Stranger in the Woods   by  Carl R. Sams 

Owl Moon   by  Jane Yolen  

The Snowy Day   by  Ezra Jack Keats 

The Tomten   by  Astrid Lindgren

The Mitten   by  Jan Brett

The Three Snow Bears   by  Jan Brett  

Brave Irene  by  William Steig

Winter Days in the Big Woods  by  Laura Ingalls Wilder

Sugar Snow   by  Laura Ingalls Wilder

Winter on the Farm   by  Laura Ingalls Wilder

The Story of the Snow Children  by  Sibylle von Olfers 

Winter Story  by  Jill Barklem

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening   by  Robert Frost

Winter Chapter Books

I thought it might be fun to throw in a few winter-themed chapter books! I tried to select really great reading material for the middles grades, but they can also make fun read alouds.

Some are classics, like The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. Others like the Hank the Cowdog series are funny. Then, there are others that are mysteries, like The Boxcar Children, and Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe   by  C. S. Lewis 

Mr. Poppins Penguins   by  Richard Atwater and Florence Atwater

The Long Winter   by  Laura Ingalls Wilder

The Bears on Hemlock Mountain   by  Alice Dalgliesh

The Boxcar Children: Snowbound Mystery   by  Gertrude Chandler Warner 

Hank the Cowdog:  Lost in the Blinded Blizzard   by  John R. Erickson  

Case of the Sneaky Snowman   by  Carolyn Keene

Polar Bears Past Bedtime   by  Mary Pope Osborne  

Winter Danger   by  William O. Steele

Tell me, what are your favorite winter picture books?

Check out these other winter posts:

Keeping Your Happy through Winter

Winter solstice activities & books, make maple syrup snow candy, frozen bubble fun for kids and books about snow, new year’s eve cootie catcher.

You may also be interested in:

20 Books for Kids Not Ready for Harry Potter

25 books your child should read after harry potter, 35 favorite read aloud books.

About Erin Vincent

Erin is a writer, blogger, and homeschooler to two intense kids. She loves nature, farm life, good books, knitting, new pens, and hot coffee. Erin is a contributing writer for Weird Unsocialized Homeschoolers. Her work has also been featured on Simple Homeschool and Book Shark.

Reader Interactions

January 9, 2019 at 11:45 am

What a wonderful list! Thanks so much for this post. We love so many of these on the list, The Little House books, Nancy Drew and Snowflake Bentley. I am always on the lookout for our next good book so I can’t wait to check out these others!

January 9, 2018 at 12:58 pm

I love Owl Moon and The Mitten. Two of my favorites you have listed in your Winter Picture Books.

January 9, 2018 at 2:39 pm

Aren’t they the best? Jan Brett and Jane Yolen are two of our favorite authors!

[…] Favorite Winter Picture Books […]

[…] We were so thrilled to get our first snow of the season! It was white, fluffy, and gloriously cold! So cold in fact that, if out long enough, your face and hands hurt! The children pointed out that when the sun’s rays hit it just right; it looked like millions of diamonds covering the ground. Of course, the first thing I wanted to do, while the big fluffy flakes fell, was curl up together and read aloud. […]

[…] Favorite Winter Books […]

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10 Favorite Picture Books for Winter

In the cold days of winter, there’s nothing like cozying up with a good book and a cup of hot cocoa. Here are some of our favorite winter themed picture books you and your family will love.

The Snowy Day  by Ezra Jack Keats

No book has captured the magic and sense of possibility of the first snowfall better than The Snowy Day . Universal in its appeal, the story has become a favorite of millions, as it reveals a child’s wonder at a new world, and the hope of capturing and keeping that wonder forever.

The Mitten by Jan Brett

Nicki’s grandmother knits him a pair of white mittens, which he wears as he goes outside to play in the snow. But white mittens can easily be lost- – Nicki loses one, and soon the forest animals become interested in it. How many animals can fit in one mitten? Young children will find out in this charming and humorous book.

Winter on the Farm by Laura Ingalls Wilder

Young farmer boy Almanzo goes through his afternoon barn chores, and then sits down to eat a hearty farm supper with his family. In this first book about Almanzo, young readers are able to share in the warmth and joy of another  Little House  family and celebrate new  Little House  adventures.

When Winter Comes by Nancy Van Laan

Where do the leaves all go when winter comes and the cold winds blow? What happens to fish, flowers, field mice, and other living things when ponds freeze and the air turns blustery? In this book you’ll tale a walk with a curious child and his parents as winter’s first snow falls.

The Snowman by Raymond Briggs

A modern-day classic, Raymond Briggs’  The Snowman  is a haunting look at a one-night adventure as the little boy and his snowman friend fly over field and ocean to reach the North Pole.

Paddle-to-the-Sea by Holling Clancy Holling

In the Nipigon country north of the Great Lakes a young boy carved the figure of an Indian in a canoe and christened him  Paddle-to-the-Sea . He sets his carving melting snow bank which the spring sun turns into a tumbling mountain stream. You’ll follow Paddle on a journey that takes him hundreds of miles from his birthplace through the Great Lakes, down the Saint Lawrence River, and out to sea.

Curious George in the Snow by H.A. Rey

George and the man with the yellow hat enjoy watching the winter sports competition. When they stop to warm up with some cocoa, George’s curiosity about the racing equipment leads to some wild rides up and down the slopes. He creates quite a stir at the resort, and may even create a new sport!

Katy and the Big Snow by Virginia Lee Burton

Katy is a big bulldozer that plows snow in the winter. But when winter comes and there isn’t much snow, all the other plows are put to use and Katy is kept in. Until one day, a great snowstorm hits and everyone in the town, including all the other snow plows, are stranded! Now, it’s up to Katy and her “chug, chug, chug” endurance to get the town moving again.

Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin

Snow in Vermont is as common as dirt. Why would anyone want to photograph it?  Snowflake Bentley  is a biographical portrait of a farm boy who loved snowflakes. He loved them so much that as he grew up he learned to photograph them and share them with the world.

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost

Illustrations by Susan Jeffers perfectly portray the stanzas in Robert Frost’s classic poem  Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening . White woods, towns, and snowflakes play up the warmth of colors on the man’s plaid jacket and sleigh blanket. A perfect way to snuggle up a cold night, and introduce young children to the beauty of Frost’s poetry!

Other Books You Might Enjoy:

Picture books.

• The Berenstain Bears Winter Wonderland by Jan & Mike Berenstain
• The Hat by Jan Brett
• Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner
• I’m Going to Give You a Polar Bear Hug by Caroline B. Cooney

Early Readers

• Mr. Putter and Tabby Hit the Slope by Cynthia Rylant
• The Cat in the Hat Comes Back by Dr. Seuss
• Nate the Great and the Snowy Trail by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat
• Cam Jansen and the Snowy Day Mystery by David A. Adler
• Eloise and the Snowman by Kay Thompson
• Hank the Cowdog and the Case of the Twisted Kitty by John R. Erickson

We hope these book recommendations are a blessing to your homeschool this winter! For more book suggestions and ideas for how to incorporate picture books into your homeschool,  head here .

This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for supporting the Homeschool Compass by shopping through our page!

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Audrey Sauble

Snow & ice: favorite children's picture books about the winter.

In the winter, playing in the snow may be fun, but reading about winter and snow can be just as fun!

We love books that are adventures, as well as books for learning about nature and science, so I’ve put together a list with some of our favorite picture books about snow, ice, and wintertime. The first few books are fictional, but many of these books are informational fiction, and I’ve included some fun nonfiction picture books as well.

If you are looking for something to read this winter, I recommend checking out some of these picture books!

(This list includes affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small fee from qualifying purchases. There is no additional cost to purchasers to use these links. If you prefer to avoid Amazon, you can also find most of these books here on Bookshop . )

Picture Books for Winter: 

• The Snowy Day, by Ezra Jack Keats – the classic story of a child exploring in the snow.
• A polar bear in the snow, by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Shawn Harris – a wonderful book about a polar bear and his icy arctic world. The illustrations are fabulous with minimalist white-on-white imagery.
• The Snowy Nap , by Jan Brett - Hedgie is supposed to go into hibernation for the winter . . . but he doesn’t want to miss out on all the icy fun! This is a lovely story of changing seasons and winter wonders, and it’s just one of the fantastic winter-time stories Jan Brett has created. Others include folktale adaptations like The Mitten (from a Ukrainian folktale), The Three Snow Bears (a polar bear adaptation of Goldilocks and the Three Bears ), as well as The Wild Christmas Reindeer (a story about getting Santa’s reindeer ready for Christmas).
• Ten Ways to Hear Snow, by Cathy Camper, illustrated by Kenard Pak – when a young girl walks through the snow to visit her grandmother, she discovers all the sounds that snow can make.
• Time to Sleep, by Denise Fleming – when Bear smells winter coming, she heads off to get ready . . . but not before telling Snail, as a bevy of animals stop and noticed the changing season.
• Owl Moon , by Jane Yolen, illustrated by John Schoenherr – the story of a family on a nighttime hike, exploring the snowy woods as they watch for great horned owls.
• Nanuk the Ice Bear, by Jeanette Winter – a sweet, simple story about a polar bear hunting, courting, and raising her cubs in a world that is slowly changing.
• Over and Under the Snow, by Kate Messner, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal – a beautiful story about exploring outdoors as a girl and her father ski through the snowy woods.
• The Snow Knows, by Jennifer McGrath, illustrated by Josée Bisaillon – a fantastic, gorgeous celebration of sound, color, and animals hiding, playing, and exploring in the woods during the winter.

• Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter, by Kenard Pak – part of Kenard Pak’s magnificent series about the seasons, the book explores the tell-tale signs of fall turning into winter. It’s followed by Pak’s Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring, showing the end of winter and the returning warmth and sunshine of springtime.
• Winter's Coming, by Jan Thornhill, illustrated by Josée Bisaillon – a young snowshoe hare doesn’t know what to expect when she hears that winter is coming. All the other animals can tell her what they during the winter, but she doesn’t know what she’s supposed to do.
• Snack, Snooze, Skedaddle: How Animals Get Ready for Winter, by Laura Purdie Salas, illustrated by Claudine Gévry – when winter comes, animals all respond in their own way. A bear might hibernate, but what about chipmunks, hummingbirds, or even earthworms?
• Under the Snow, by Melissa Stewart, illustrated by Constance Bergum – this nonfiction picture book shows the different ways that animals survive the winter, as they sleep soundly under a blanket of snow.
• Not a Buzz to Be Found: Insects in Winter, Linda Glaser, illustrations by Jaime Zollars – how do insects survive the winter? Discover insects that migrate or hibernate in this fun nature book.
• Bugs and Bugsicles: Insects in the Winter, by Amy S. Hansen, illustrated by Robert C. Cray – another fun book looking at the different ways that insects survive the winter. This one is a bit longer and has more information about the insects and their habits.
• Sizing up Winter, by Lizann Flatt, illustrated by Ashley Barron – part of the math in nature series, this book explores sizes, units of measurements, and other math concepts shown through a fun winter wonderland adventure.
• Winter Bees & Other Poems of the Cold, by Joyce Sidman, illustrated by Rick Allen – a fun look at winter and a variety of wild animals, told lyrically through snippets of verse.
• The Story of Snow: The Science of Winter's Wonder, by Mark Cassino and Jon Nelson, illustrated by Nora Aoyagi – a detailed look at snow crystals and the delicate shapes that they form.
• Snowflake Bentley, by Jacqueline Briggs Martin, illustrated by Mary Azarian – the story of the scientist who learned how to photograph and study snowflakes.

Happy reading!

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40+ Winter Picture Books for Kids

Check out 40+ nature-inspired winter picture books for kids right here in one spot! You will find books about snow, hibernation, polar and arctic animals, and general winter topics. Grab your hot chocolate and make a must-have list of winter books for your nature or science corner!

If there is ever a time of year that you should be stocked with beautiful and engaging winter picture books, it’s definitely winter! We love snuggling on the couch and reading stacks of books on chilly winter days. It’s a great way to learn about different winter topics and spend time together as a family.

These books make great Holiday gifts and stocking stuffers! If you love this list, you might also like Countdown to Christmas with 25 of the Most Beautiful Holiday Picture Books . 

I categorized this list of 40+winter picture books into four parts:

Hibernation

Arctic and polar animals, general winter books.

Without further ado, here is our list of favorite winter picture books!

This post contains Affiliate links for your convenience.

1. Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin

Wilson Bentley loved snowflakes and was determined that one day his camera would capture the uniqueness and beauty of each individual snowflake. Just an FYI, this book is rather long and better suited for second grade and up. 

2. When Winter Comes by Nancy Van Laan

Take a wintry walk with a curious boy and his family and see what happens to various living things when winter arrives. 

3. The Story of Snow (The Science of Winter’s Wonder) by Jon Nelson Ph.D

Not quite a picture book, but I couldn’t resist sharing this one! It’s jam packed with interesting information on snow. This book also comes with instructions on how to catch your own snow crystals!

4. Tracks in the Snow by Wong Herbert Yee

This is a sweet book about a girl who follows tracks outside her house after a snowfall. She tries to figure out who made the tracks and makes a surprising discovery at the end of the book!

5. Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner

This beautiful nonfiction picture book takes a look at the secret world of animals that lives under the snow in the wintertime. 

6. Blizzard by John Rocco

This book is based on the author’s experience during the epic Blizzard of 1978. I absolutely love these illustrations and the story is so fun!

7. Snow by Uri Shulevitz

The poetic text and beautiful watercolor illustrations pulled me right into this sweet book about a boy and his dog who are excited about a snowfall. 

8. The Story of the Snow Children: Mini Edition by Sibylle von Olfers

Step into Poppy’s wondrous world where she suddenly sees snowflakes are actually snow children, dancing around her yard. Will she join them?

9. Winter Dance by Marion Dane Bauer

Before the first snowfall, fox takes advice from other animals on how he should prepare for winter. 

10. Snow by Cynthia Rylant

I love this book! Rylant does a great job of describing the excitement of a snowfall and shares some wonderful indoor and outdoor activities for kids to try on a snowy day. The illustrations are stunning and pull the reader right into the story. 

11. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

This classic winter book shares the wonder and excitement of winter’s first snowfall. 

12. Snowballs by Lois Ehlert

This book is perfect for loose part lovers! Ehlert encourages imagination and shows how to make snow people with the help of found objects. 

1. Animals in Winter by Henrietta Bancroft

Where do animals go in the winter? From butterflies to woodchucks, this book covers a wide variety of animals. 

2. A Warm Winter Tail by Carrie A. Pearson

In this creative book, animals wonder how humans stay warm in the winter. Do they have the same interesting adaptations as them?

3. The Big Snow by Berta Hader

See how woodland animals get ready for winter in this gorgeous book!

4. Winter’s Coming: A Story of Seasonal Change by Jan Thornhill

Lily, a young snowshoe hare learns the ways in which different animals adapt to survive a chilly and snowy winter. 

5. Winter Sleep: A Hibernation Story by Sean Taylor

Follow a child and his grandma as they walk through a snowy landscape. Join them as they discover sleeping animals and learn about their hibernation habits. These illustrations are gorgeous! 

6. A Loud Winter’s Nap by Katy Hudson

Tortoise’s friends try to convince him to stay awake through winter to see what he is missing out on during his winter nap. 

7. The Snowy Nap by Jan Brett

See what happens when Hedgie decides to stay awake and have fun instead of burrow before the first snowfall. 

8. Hibernation Station by Michelle Meadows

This sweet and calming book introduces children to two different types of hibernating animals. I can’t guarantee it, but this one might lull your child into a sleepy dreamland!

9. Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson

Bear sleeps while many animals find their way into his cave to warm up. What will happen when bear wakes from his slumber?

1. Over in the Arctic Where the Cold Winds Blow by Marianne Berkes

This stunning picture book teaches children about arctic animals. This also doubles as a counting book, making it perfect for preschoolers!

2. Way Up In the Arctic by Jennifer Ward

Set to the tune, Over in the Meadow, this book introduces children to the interesting animal mamas and babies that call the Arctic home. 

3. The Three Snow Bears by Jan Brett

Brett sets the familiar story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears in the Arctic, switching Goldilocks with Aloo-ki, an Inuit girl. Follow along as she stumbles upon the snow bears’ igloo and tries their soup, boots and sleeping quarters. This is a great book to compare and contrast with Goldilocks!

4. In the Arctic Waters by Laura Crawford

Set to the tune, This is the House that Jack Built, follow Arctic ocean animals as they chase each other around “the ice that floats in the Arctic waters.” 

5. Arctic Animals (Who’s That?) by Tad Carpenter

This lift the flap guessing book for Arctic animals is so fun! My boys love this one.

6. The Best Book of Polar Animals by Christiane Gunzi

This book about Polar animals is loaded with great information and beautiful illustrations! This one is perfect for older children. 

8. Into the Arctic by Roger Priddy

The cool see through windows in this book invite you into the beautiful snowy landscape of the Arctic. 

1. Owl Moon by Jane Yolen

Follow a little girl and her father as they go owling one snowy night. 

2. Winter: An Alphabet Acrostic by Steven Schnur

This is a beautiful alphabet book filled with 26 wintery acrostic poems. 

3. Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter by Kenard Pak

Say goodbye to the falling leaves and hello to all of the delights of winter with this gorgeous book.

4. Winter Eyes by Douglas Florian

This book invites you to snuggle up with 28 winter inspired poems with beautiful watercolor illustrations!

5. Sugar Snow (Little House Picture Book) by Laura Ingalls Wilder

This is an adaptation of the beloved Little House series. Learn more about maple syrup and life in the woods in this sweet book. 

6. Cold Snap by Eileen Spinelli

The people of Toby Mills are in a cold snap and freezing! The mayor’s wife gathers the townspeople and shows them how to make the best of chilly weather. 

7. Winter Story (Bramby Hedge) by Jill Barklem

Gather around and read this sweet winter story of the miniature world of Hedgegrow.  

8. One Snowy Night by Nick Butterworth

See what happens when Percy the Park Keeper allows the park animals into his warm home one chilly snowy night. Will there be enough room for all of them? 

9. Little Owl’s Snow by Divya Srinivasan

This book is a wonderful introduction to the changing seasons. Young children will love this beautifully illustrated board book!

1o. The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper

This is the perfect book to read on the Winter Solstice! Children of all ages will love this book.

11. The Shortest Day: Celebrating the Winter Solstice by Wendy Pfeffer

Welcome the shortest day of the year with this book! This is another wonderful book to read on the Winter Solstice. 

12. Sleep Tight Farm: A Farm Prepares for Winter by Eugenie Doyle

See how a family gets their farm ready for the snow of winter. This stunning book give children a glimpse into every season on the farm and shows how they prepare for the very end of the farm year. 

13. Wolf in the Snow by Matthew Cordell

Follow a lost girl and a wolf cub as they find their way home in a snowstorm. This heartwarming book tells a unique tale of friendship and trust.

14. When Winter Comes: Discovering Wildlife in Our Snowy Woods by Aimee M. Bissonette

This book celebrates the joy and wonder of playing in a winter wonderland, while encouraging families to get outdoors and explore the magical world around them!

Please Pin this book list if you love it!

I hope you check out some of these winter picture books i promise, your little nature lovers will love them as much as my boys., check out over 30 skills-based gift ideas, need more nature-inspired book craft ideas, check out these ideas, pick a pine tree nature craft, the reindeer express carrot garland.

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Picture-Books In Winter

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