The 20 best picture books of all time


Meike Mackenzie, Manager of Mobile Toy Library in Preston, Victoria, lists the 20 best children's picture books of all time.

Uno’s Garden
by Graeme Base

Stunning illustrations by Base and a pertinent story about climate change make this a must for three to four year olds

 

Iggy Peck, Architect
by Andrea Beaty

A very funny story about a young boy overcoming a teacher who tries to dull his love of Architecture

Moo Baa La La La
by Sandra Boynton

The quintessential rhyming board book for children just learning to talk

The Jolly Postman
by Allan and Janet Ahlberg

Gorgeous letters to open on every page and subtle humour for parents too!

 

The Very Hungry Caterpillar
by Eric Carle

Carle has remained at the top of children’s illustrators for decades now. The stunning illustrations in this book demonstrate why his books for toddlers are second to none.

The Cat in the Hat
by Dr. Seuss

 

A very funny book for three to four year olds about a cat invading a house while two children are home alone

Where The Wild Things Are
by Maurice Sendak

For a fantasy book about a wild land full of loveable beasts you cannot beat this wonderful tale.

The Night Before Christmas
by Clement Clarke Moore and Jan Brett

A must have for every family that celebrates Christmas.

The Gruffalo
by Julia Donaldson

What a beautiful book this is about a mouse tricking a wild beast! Very funny for parents and children alike.

Harry the Dirty Dog
by Gene Zion


A beautiful story about a dog who becomes unrecognisable to his family after getting dirty having a fun day in town on his own.

It’s OK to be Different
by Todd Parr

Bright colours and simple illustrations make Todd Parr a favourite with one to two year olds.

Madeline
by Ludwig Bemelmans

The perfectly written rhymes are what make Madeline so irresistible. You won’t be able to help yourself putting no a French accent as you read about her escapades in Paris!

Olivia
by Ian Falconer


Olivia is a scallywag that you can’t help but adore!

Who Sank the Boat?
by Pamela Allen

You will never guess who DID sink the boat!

Sebastian lives in a Hat
by Thelma Catterwell and Kerry Argent

Animal lovers will fall in love with Sebastian in an instant!

Where the Forest Meets The Sea
by Jeannie Baker

Baker’s illustrations are like no other. Through using real materials like fabric and sand she creates the most lifelike images you are likely to find in any children’s book.

MUTT Dog
by Stephen Michael King

Have the tissues ready for this one… but don’t worry it ends well!

Imagine
by Allison Lester

What can YOU imagine?

Edwina the Emu
by Sheena Knowles and Rod Clement

Every Aussie child needs a story about an Aussie animal and Edwina is as good as it gets!

Schnitzel Von Krumm's Basketwork
by Lynley Dodd

Even better than Hairy Maclary, this cute tale about a dog that’s attached to it’s weathered old basket is adorable.

 


 
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This article was kindly supplied by Meike Mackenzie

Mobile Toy Library



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