My wholesome book list of the best April picture books for children. Enjoy reading these adorable spring stories together all month long!
Springtime is here and we couldn’t be happier about it!!! As the world shakes off winter’s chill and bursts into the vibrant hues of spring, there’s no better time to share stories that celebrate nature’s renewal with little readers. From blooming flowers and busy bees to chirping robins and sprouting seeds, these picture books capture the season’s wonder through charming tales and stunning illustrations, perfect for cozy read-alouds or outdoor adventures. You may find your little ones inspired to plant some seeds or even go searching for some worms…. okay maybe we’ll encourage some bird watching instead.
I hope you and your little ones enjoy this list of our favorite April picture books for children! Happy reading; and happy SPRING!!
20 Best April Picture Books for Children:
The Flowers' Festival Written and Illustrated by Elsa Beskow
A young girl is whisked away by flower fairies to join their whimsical Midsummer festival, hosted by Queen Rose. With charming tales from flowers, birds, and bumblebees, paired with enchanting illustrations, this story celebrates nature’s beauty and imagination.
Spring Story Written and Illustrated by Jill Barklem
The mice of Brambly Hedge awaken to a sunny spring day and plan a special birthday surprise for Wilfred, filled with picnics, woodland cheer, and of course presents. The intricate illustrations and cozy storytelling bring the bustling hedgerow community to life in this delightful spring tale.
Home for a Bunny Written by Margaret Wise Brown and Illustrated by Garth Williams
A little bunny hops through the springtime forest, asking frogs, robins, and other animals where he can find a home of his own. The gentle text and soft, classic illustrations weave a sweet and timeless story of belonging.
Baby Farm Animals Written and Illustrated by Garth Williams
This adorable book introduces little ones to a barnyard full of adorable baby animals, from fluffy chicks to playful piglets, all eager to explore their world. The tender illustrations and simple storytelling make it a delightful celebration of farm life and new beginnings.
Mr. Rabbit and the Lovely Present Written by Charlotte Zolotow and Illustrated by Maurice Sendak
A little girl enlists the help of a kind rabbit to find the perfect birthday gift for her mother, gathering colorful treasures like red apples and yellow bananas. The lyrical text and whimsical illustrations create a tender, imaginative tale of love and discovery.
The Spring Rabbit Written by Joyce Dunbar and Illustrated by Susan Varley
A lonely rabbit named Spring longs for a family of his own and sets out on a hopeful journey through the seasons to find one. A heartfelt story, paired with gentle illustrations, captures the quiet beauty of patience and the joy of new beginnings.
Are You a Bee? Written by Judy Allen and Illustrated by Tudor Humphries
This engaging book invites young readers into the busy world of a bee, exploring its daily life from buzzing around flowers to making honey in the hive. The simple, curious text and detailed illustrations offer a fun and educational peek into nature’s tiny workers.
From Seed to Plant Written and Illustrated by Gail Gibbons
This informative picture book takes readers on a journey through a plant’s life cycle, from a tiny seed sprouting to a blooming flower pollinated by bees. Filled with clear explanations and bright, labeled illustrations, it makes for a perfect blend of science and storytelling for curious young minds.
An Earthworm's Life Written and Illustrated by John Himmelman
This fascinating book follows the quiet adventures of an earthworm as it tunnels through soil, escapes predators, and helps the earth thrive. The detailed illustrations and straightforward text bring the hidden world of these wriggly creatures to life for young nature lovers.
A Nest Full of Eggs Written by Priscilla Jenkins and Illustrated by Lizzy Rockwell
A young girl named Ruby watches a pair of robins build a nest, lay eggs, and raise their chicks in this gentle introduction to bird life cycles. The clear narrative and warm illustrations make it a captivating and educational springtime read.
The Flower Alphabet Book Written by Jerry Pallotta and Illustrated by Leslie Evans
This vibrant book takes readers on an alphabetical tour of flowers, from Amaryllis to Zinnia, blending fun facts with stunning floral illustrations. This engaging text and colorful artwork make it a blooming delight for kids learning their ABCs and identify some of nature’s beauties- flowers!
Planting a Rainbow Written and Illustrated by Lois Ehlert
A mother and her child plant a vibrant garden, growing flowers in every color of the rainbow from bulbs, seeds, and seedlings. The bold, collage-style illustrations and simple text celebrate the joy of gardening, being together, and the dazzling hues of flowers.
About Birds Written by Cathryn Sill and Illustrated by John Sill
This beautifully illustrated book introduces young readers to the world of birds, highlighting their unique features, habitats, and behaviors in clear, concise language. This educational text paired with lifelike watercolor artwork makes it a perfect primer for budding birdwatchers.
Spring Walk Written and Illustrated by Virginia Brimhall Snow
A cheerful group of children explores nature on a springtime stroll with their Grammy, discovering blooming flowers, buzzing bees, and other seasonal wonders. The lively text and colorful illustrations invite young ones to celebrate the sights and sounds of spring.
Flowers Written and Illustrated by Gail Gibbons
This informative book dives into the world of flowers, explaining how they grow, their parts, and the role they play in nature with clear, engaging facts. The bright illustrations and labeled diagrams make it a delightful and educational resource for children curious about the blooms around them.
The King of Bees Written by Lester Laminack and Illustrated by Jim LaMarche
Young Henry watches in awe as his Aunt Lilla tends to her beehives, learning about the wonder of bees and their honey-making world. Readers will enjoy the warm storytelling and rich illustrations that weave a tender tale of family, nature, and discovery in the South Carolina Lowcountry.
A Seed Is Sleepy Written by Dianna Hutts Ashton and Illustrated by Sylvia Long
This poetic book explores the quiet beauty and hidden potential of seeds, describing their shapes, sizes, and what they become with lyrical text. The descriptive words and intricate illustrations create a captivating tribute to nature’s tiny beginnings.
The Robins in Your Backyard Written and Illustrated by Nancy Carol Willis
This charming living book follows a pair of robins as they build a nest, raise their chicks, and thrive in a backyard, offering a peek into their everyday lives. With simple storytelling and detailed illustrations, it makes an inviting and educational read for kids curious about these familiar birds.
When Spring Comes Written by Kevin Henkes and Illustrated by Laura Dronzek
This gentle story captures the slow, joyful arrival of spring as snow melts, flowers bloom, and a child eagerly awaits the season’s surprises. The simple text and soft, colorful illustrations create a cozy celebration of nature’s renewal.
Busy Spring: Nature Wakes Up Written by Sean Taylor, Alex Moss and Illustrated by Cinyee Chiu
A father and daughter venture outside to explore the bustling signs of spring, from sprouting plants to chirping birds, in this lively tale of seasonal discovery. The playful narrative and vibrant illustrations, paired with ecological notes, bring the awakening of nature to life for young readers.
Whether you’re planting a garden, watching birds, or simply soaking in the fresh spring air, these books offer a delightful way to connect children with the wonders unfolding outside. Grab a quilt, a stack of these treasures, and let these seasonal stories inspire curiosity and joy in your little ones all spring long!
Click the button below for a free printable booklist to take with you to your local library!
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