Again!

When my kid (now 12) was tiny I spent lots of time reading books to them. And as much as I love a beautifully illustrated wordless book or a long and intricate story (hello, Eloise), sometimes I needed something easier, something that I wouldn’t mind repeated readings of when kiddo insisted “Again!”

Big fat caveat: It’s been a while since I’ve been immersed in the board and picture book world, so I’m sure I’m missing some great new options. Please email me with your recent favorites, and I can add your suggestions. 

Bear’s New Friend by Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman

My husband loved making up different voices for the animals in this story of old friends and new. Like many of my favorites, this one is in rhyme. When you’re operating on very little sleep, rhyme makes everything easier!

The Going to Bed Book by Sandra Boynton

There are so many Boynton books to love for reading aloud, but this one holds a special place in my heart. The text at the end is so relaxing that I (and sometimes even the baby) felt sleepily peaceful when we finished the book.

Jesse Bear, What Will You Wear by Nancy White Carlstrom and Bruce Degen

My husband made up a song to go along with the rhyming text of this one. The book takes you through Jesse Bear’s whole day, from morning to bed, with plenty of love and silliness in between.

Where Is the Green Sheep? by Mem Fox and Judy Horacek

This is a wonderful mix of opposites book and nonsense fun. My sister gave us this book when the kid was little, and it became a fast favorite with its rhymes and questions and surprise ending.

I Don’t Want to Be a Frog by Dev Petty and Mike Boldt

This one is great for toddlers who are starting to assert their contrary and independent selves. The kid frog spends the book explaining to their parent that they want to be any animal other than what they are. The parent is very patient and very funny. 

The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak

Another great choice for older kids. I suppose you could read this one to yourself silently, but why would you? This hilarious choice may not have illustrations but the sound effects and other silliness it puts the reader through will have your kid in stitches.