Around the Year Picture Books with Beautiful Illustrations

Reading picture books with beautiful illustrations is a wonderful way to draw our kids into reading and help them appreciate that which is objectively good and beautiful. Illustrations play an important role in the development of our children’s imaginations, so we want to make sure we give our children lots of beautiful books.

Here are twelve of my favorite illustrators (some classic, some contemporary) for around-the-year picture books with beautiful pictures.

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January: The Brambley Hedge Series by Jill Barklem

The intricate and detailed drawings in this book capture the imagination as they depict the adventures of the mice of Brambley Hedge. Get all eight books here in a book collection or in a treasury.

February – Books by Barbara Cooney

Beautiful landscapes and noble, gentle characters are the trademarks of Barbara Cooney’s work. Her version of Snow White, Rose Red is an out-of-print gem, but you may be able to find it used or in the library.

March – Books by Robert McCloskey

Timeless and charming stories with some of the best black and white drawings ever found in children’s books.

April – Books by David Weisner

David Weisner’s books, many of which are wordless, spark curiosity, wonder, and imaginative thought.

May – Books by Barbara McClintock

McClintock’s charming vintage illustrations are filled with wonderful details. In the Adele and Simon books, children need to search for Simon’s lost items as they travel through the scenic streets of Paris or tour early 20th c. America.

June – Books by Jim LaMarche

Beautiful illustrations of nature in The Raft and Pond make you wish you were a kid again. LaMarche’s elves are captivating.

July – Books Illustrated by Jason Chin

Chin’s marvelous illustrations capture the joy and wonder of childhood, nature, and new life. We have also enjoyed his gorgeous pictures in Coral Reefs and Grand Canyon.

August – Books Illustrated by Charles Santore

Charles Santore brings classic tales to life with his vibrant illustrations.

September – Books by Sophie Blackall

Blackall’s delightful illustrations in these books are sweet and nostalgic.

October – Books Illustrated by Renee Graef

Renee Graef captures the warmth and love of family life. There are 14 books in the Little House Picture Book series; The Little House Treasury contains six.

November – Books by Aaron Becker