As the winter chill settles in and the new year unfolds, there’s no better time to curl up with a good book and dive into the world of picture books. Whether you’re looking for stories to brighten the coldest days or share with little ones during family storytime, January offers a fresh start with new releases and timeless classics. From heartwarming tales of snowy adventures to stories that spark creativity and wonder, this list of 25 best picture books for January is sure to keep young readers engaged and entertained. Get ready to discover the perfect book to start the year with joy, laughter, and imagination!
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25 Best Picture Books for January
These picture books for January are a wonderful way to introduce kids to the beauty of the winter season.
1. Meet January by April Martin
“Meet January” by April Martin introduces readers to a charming character who embodies the relatable feeling of returning to school after the winter break. January enjoys the warmth and comfort of her home, playing with her new toys, but dreads the cold walk to school. As she wrestles with her emotions, the support of her friends helps her overcome her initial reluctance and bring a smile to her face. Part of “The Calendar Kids” series, this book cleverly links the months of the year with unique characters, each represented through their outfits and hairstyles. With engaging visuals and a heartwarming narrative, this story is both enjoyable and educational, encouraging young readers to connect with the changing seasons and the importance of friendship. Written and illustrated by April Martin, the book is a wonderful resource for parents and educators alike.
2. Squirrel’s New Year’s Resolution by Pat Miller
In “Squirrel’s New Year’s Resolution” by Pat Miller, Squirrel is excited about New Year’s Day and the tradition of making resolutions, but she is unsure what resolution to set for herself. As she travels around the forest, she learns about the resolutions of her friends and helps them set their own goals. However, Squirrel still struggles to come up with a resolution of her own. Through this charming story, young readers are introduced to the concept of New Year’s resolutions while enjoying a delightful tale of friendship and self-reflection. The book’s playful illustrations and thoughtful narrative offer a gentle exploration of goal-setting and the importance of helping others.
3. Brave Irene by William Steig
In Brave Irene by William Steig, young readers are introduced to the courageous Irene Bobbin, a dressmaker’s daughter who takes it upon herself to deliver a beautiful ball gown to the palace when her mother falls ill. Despite the bitter cold snowstorm that threatens to thwart her efforts, Irene is determined to complete the task. As she battles the fierce wind and navigates numerous obstacles, her bravery shines through, making her a heroine that readers will eagerly root for. With its engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations, Brave Irene offers a timeless tale of resilience, determination, and the power of perseverance. Winner of the 1986 New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Book of the Year, this classic story continues to inspire young audiences.
4. One Snowy Night by Nick Butterworth
In One Snowy Night by Nick Butterworth, Percy the Park Keeper finds himself facing more than just the usual task of feeding the animals on a cold winter’s night. When the weather grows harsh, Percy discovers that his animal friends need more than food—they need warmth and comfort. Determined to help, Percy goes above and beyond to make sure his friends are safe and cared for. This heartwarming story, part of the beloved Percy the Park Keeper series, is filled with gentle humour and kindness. Celebrating thirty years of the series, One Snowy Night continues to delight readers with its charming illustrations and enduring message of friendship. With over 9 million copies sold worldwide, this classic is a must-read for young readers.
5. The Snow Thief by Alice Hemming
In The Snow Thief by Alice Hemming, Squirrel and Bird return for another charming winter adventure. When Squirrel experiences snow for the first time, he is initially puzzled by the cold, white blanket covering the ground. But as he grows to love the snow, it suddenly vanishes! Convinced a snow thief is behind the mystery, Squirrel and Bird set off to uncover the truth. Hemming’s delightful storytelling, paired with Nicola Slater’s expressive and humorous illustrations, makes this book a captivating read. The story not only explores the magic of winter but also offers a fun, educational look at the changing seasons, complete with an informative spread at the back. This charming tale is perfect for young readers eager to learn about winter and its wonders.
6. Owl Babies by Martin Waddell
In Owl Babies by Martin Waddell, three baby owls—Sarah, Percy, and Bill—wake up one night to find their mother gone. As they wait anxiously on a branch, the growing darkness amplifies their worry, and they wonder when she will return. The gentle narrative reassures young readers that, despite their fears, Mummy will always come back. Waddell’s comforting story, paired with beautiful illustrations, captures the emotions of separation and reunion with warmth and tenderness. This timeless tale is perfect for helping children understand the reassurance that loved ones will always return.
7. I Follow The Fox by Rob Biddulph
In I Follow The Fox by Rob Biddulph, a young boy embarks on a magical winter adventure when his beloved teddy, Little Fox, goes missing. Despite a family search, the toy cannot be found. One night, a mysterious fox appears at the boy’s window, beckoning him to follow. Together, they journey through a snowy city, past meadows and icy rivers, and the boy soon realises the fox has led him to something truly special—and that she needs his help. This beautifully illustrated story is filled with wonder and emotion, offering both a heartwarming tale of companionship and a quest to find what is lost. With stunning artwork and a captivating narrative, Biddulph’s book has garnered praise for its magical atmosphere and its echoes of timeless winter stories, making it a must-read for the season.
8. I Definitely Don’t Like Winter by Fiona Barker
In I Definitely Don’t Like Winter by Fiona Barker, two best friends, Hank and Hoog, find themselves at odds when they disagree about the arrival of winter. Hank is dreading the cold and snow, while Hoog is thrilled by everything winter has to offer—from the snow to the snuggles. Their amusing rivalry over the season leads them on a journey of compromise and understanding. Through vibrant, heartwarming illustrations and a laugh-out-loud narrative, Barker delivers a delightful story about friendship, disagreement, and the importance of accepting each other’s differences. Perfect for wintertime—and beyond—this charming tale is a celebration of friendship at its heart.
9. A Cozy Winter Day by Eliza Wheeler
In A Cozy Winter Day by Eliza Wheeler, the animals of Acorn Village enjoy a variety of heartwarming winter activities, both indoors and out. Whether they’re reading, baking, or crafting inside, or playing in the snow outside, the day is filled with simple joys. As evening falls, the animals gather to share songs, hot drinks, and stories by a crackling fire, before settling into bed for a peaceful, dreamy sleep. Wheeler’s enchanting illustrations bring this cozy story to life, with rich details that evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. This delightful book captures the essence of winter’s quiet pleasures, inviting readers to return to Acorn Village time and again.
10. Winter Story by Jill Barklem
In Winter Story by Jill Barklem, the mice of Brambly Hedge eagerly anticipate the arrival of winter, and when a heavy snowstorm blankets their village, they decide to celebrate with a grand Snow Ball. As the snow piles up, the mice work together to prepare an Ice Hall for the festivities, with excitement building as the preparations unfold. The story captures the magic of winter, filled with joy, community spirit, and the thrill of a much-awaited celebration. With its intricate illustrations and timeless charm, Winter Story is a perfect addition to the Brambly Hedge series, which has been beloved for 40 years.
11. Winter Solstice Wish by Kate Allen Fox
In Winter Solstice Wish by Kate Allen Fox, the shortest day of the year becomes a celebration of light, hope, and community. As daylight fades quickly, people gather on a beach to build a bonfire, symbolising their shared longing for warmth and renewal. This lyrical, luminous story captures the essence of the winter solstice, weaving together themes of human connection and the universal desire for light in the darkness. Inspired by real-life solstice bonfires in San Diego, Fox beautifully combines scientific insight with the deeper emotional pull of the season. The book also includes informative backmatter on global solstice traditions and the science behind this celestial event, making it both a poetic and educational read.
12. Winter’s Child by Angela Mcallister/Grahame Baker-Smith
In Winter’s Child by Angela McAllister, illustrated by Grahame Baker-Smith, Tom’s wish for an endless winter leads him to a mysterious boy who shares his love for snow and ice. As the two friends play together, Tom becomes unaware of the consequences of a never-ending winter, until he sees the effects on the countryside and his ailing grandmother. He discovers that his friend is Winter’s child, and for the cycle of seasons to continue, they must part ways. This enchanting story beautifully explores themes of nature’s rhythms, the passage of time, and the importance of balance, all while capturing the magic and melancholy of winter.
13. Story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder by Jon Nelson
Story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder by Jon Nelson is a fascinating exploration of the science behind snow crystals, answering questions such as how they form, what shapes they can take, and whether any two snowflakes are truly alike. Through stunning photographs of real snow crystals, the book showcases the beauty and diversity of these winter wonders. Written by a nature photographer and a snow scientist, this book inspires both wonder and curiosity, providing a deeper understanding of snow’s natural marvels. With snowflake-catching instructions included, it’s the perfect read for young aspiring snow scientists eager to learn about the winter world around them.
14. If Winter Comes, Tell It I’m Not Here by Simona Ciraolo
In If Winter Comes, Tell It I’m Not Here by Simona Ciraolo, a little boy who loves summer—complete with swimming and ice cream—faces the impending arrival of winter, as announced by his big sister. She paints a gloomy picture of the cold, dark days ahead, with endless rain and no ice cream in sight. However, as the seasons change, the boy discovers that winter holds its own joys and adventures. This heartwarming story is a celebration of embracing the changing seasons, highlighting the joy and wonder that can be found whether it’s sunny or snowy. Ciraolo’s playful illustrations and uplifting narrative remind readers that each season brings its own unique pleasures.
15. Bright Winter Night by Alli Brydon
In Bright Winter Night by Alli Brydon, a group of woodland creatures emerges from the forest as night falls, sensing they have a special task to complete. Despite their differences, they work together, using items found on the forest floor to build something mysterious. As they race to finish their creation, the animals are united by their shared purpose and excitement for what’s to come. Through lyrical text and sparkling illustrations, this heartwarming story celebrates the beauty of nature, the joy of friendship, and the power of togetherness. It is a perfect reminder of the wonder that can unfold when we work in harmony with others.
16. Snow by Sam Usher
In Snow by Sam Usher, Sam eagerly anticipates the joy of a snow day, but he must wait for his Grandad before he can join in the fun. As he impatiently lists all the things everyone else—kids, dogs, and even zoo animals—are doing in the snow, Grandad takes his time. When they finally head out, Sam’s imaginative descriptions prove true, and both Sam and Grandad get caught up in the magic of the snow day together. With playful illustrations and a delightful narrative, this story captures the excitement and wonder of a snow day, as well as the bond between a child and grandparent.
17. Elmer in the Snow by David McKee
In Elmer in the Snow by David McKee, Elmer’s friends grumble about the cold weather, so Elmer decides to show them just how cold it can really get. Together, they embark on a walk up a mountain, where the temperature drops with each step. At the top, a lively snowball fight warms them up, and they realise that, compared to the freezing mountaintop, their home isn’t so cold after all. With his usual mischievous charm, Elmer teaches his friends that hot and cold are all about perspective. McKee’s delightful story and illustrations capture the playful nature of Elmer and his friends, making it a perfect winter read.
18. Winter Dance by Marion Dane Bauer
In Winter Dance by Marion Dane Bauer, the arrival of winter sets every animal in motion as they prepare for the season in their own special ways. Squirrel gathers nuts, geese migrate south, and the snowshoe hare dons its white coat, but the fox is unsure how to prepare. Seeking advice from each animal, the fox rejects their methods until it meets a golden-eyed friend who reveals the perfect way to celebrate the snow. This lyrical, playful tale is beautifully complemented by Richard Jones’ stunning illustrations, making it a heartwarming celebration of the changing seasons and the natural world.
19. The Story of the Snow Children by Sibylle von Olfers
In The Story of the Snow Children by Sibylle von Olfers, Poppy embarks on a magical adventure with the snow children to the Snow Queen’s enchanting wintry kingdom. She visits a shimmering ice castle and dances at the Princess’s birthday celebration, but when the time comes, she must return home. This timeless tale, first published with vintage illustrations by Olfers, transports readers to a world of nature children, whimsical creatures, and magical landscapes. The new edition beautifully preserves Olfers’ art nouveau illustrations and features a luxurious hand-crafted design, making it a collectible treasure for all who cherish classic winter stories.
20. Learning to Ski with Mr Magee by Chris Van Dusen
In Learning to Ski with Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen, Mr. Magee and his dog Dee embark on another humorous adventure. Eager to learn how to ski, they set off for a day of fun, but things take an unexpected turn when they have a run-in with a moose. The pair ends up flying through the air, suspended a hundred feet above an abyss. Just when things seem most dire, the oblivious moose comes to the rescue, and Mr. Magee and Dee return home safe and sound. With Van Dusen’s signature whimsy and vibrant illustrations, this delightful tale is sure to entertain readers.
21. A Dot in the Snow by Corrinne Averiss
In A Dot in the Snow by Corrinne Averiss, a young polar bear named Miki wanders away from his mother while she fishes, discovering a mysterious dot in the snow. The dot turns out to be a little girl, and though neither has ever seen the other’s kind before, they form an immediate bond as they play together in the snow. However, as they navigate the harsh polar landscape, Miki realizes he must guide the girl to safety before continuing his search for his own mother. This touching story of empathy, courage, and friendship explores the shared experience of being separated from a loved one, set against the stunning, atmospheric snowscapes illustrated by Fiona Woodcock. Perfect for the winter season, A Dot in the Snow is a heartfelt tale that encourages kindness and understanding.
22. Snow Day by Richard Curtis
In Snow Day by Richard Curtis, Danny heads to school on a quiet snowy morning, expecting a usual day, but instead finds the school deserted and his least favourite teacher waiting for him. What begins as the worst day imaginable soon turns into the most magical and life-affirming day of the year. Through unexpected friendship and moments of wonder, Danny discovers that even the most unlikely situations can lead to remarkable experiences. This heartwarming story, illustrated by Rebecca Cobb, beautifully captures the magic of snow and the power of human connection, making it a perfect read for the winter season.
23. Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner
In Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner, readers are taken on a journey through the quiet, snowy landscape, where above the snow the world is still and serene. But beneath the snow lies a hidden world teeming with life. Squirrels, snow hares, bears, bullfrogs, and many other animals create homes in the subnivean zone, staying warm and busy through the winter months. This captivating nonfiction picture book reveals the secret lives of winter’s hidden creatures, offering a glimpse into their tunnels and caves while showcasing the wonders of nature beneath the snow. Beautifully illustrated and informative, it’s a perfect exploration of the winter season.
24. Wolf in the Snow by Matthew Cordell
In Wolf in the Snow by Matthew Cordell, a young girl and a lost wolf cub find themselves stranded in a snowstorm, both searching for their way home. Through stunning illustrations and a wordless narrative, this heartwarming tale conveys the powerful themes of trust, friendship, and the bond between these two unlikely companions. The girl’s journey to help the wolf cub, guided by the distant howls of the wolf pack, unfolds with emotional depth and a sense of quiet adventure. With its evocative artwork and a story full of heart, this book beautifully captures the magic of winter and the spirit of connection.
25. A Thing Called Snow by Yuval Zommer
In A Thing Called Snow by Yuval Zommer, Fox and Hare, born in spring, grew up in summer, and became the best of friends by autumn. When winter arrives, they’re excited to leap and bound in this mysterious thing called snow, but they don’t quite understand what it is. Embarking on an Arctic journey, they seek the help of their animal friends to discover the magic of snow. With its warm, heartfelt narrative and stunning illustrations, this charming picture book celebrates the wonder of the natural world, kindness, and community. Zommer’s story, filled with a sense of awe and discovery, is a perfect addition to festive storytelling traditions.
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Summary
These 25 picture books for January provide a delightful mix of winter wonder, exciting adventures, and heartwarming lessons for young readers. Whether you’re looking to cosy up with a snowy tale or explore the themes of friendship, family, and growth, there’s something for every child in this collection. These stories will not only entertain but also spark creativity and reflection during the chilly months of January.
We’d love to hear which of these picture books are your favourites—feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
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