39 Best Winter Books for Kids

Winter books for kids are a wonderful way to bring the magic of the season into your home, and I love reading together with kids during these cozy months!

Sharing stories not only sparks their imagination but is also an excellent literacy activity that creates meaningful connections and builds positive associations with books and the joy of reading.

I’ve carefully selected these winter-themed books for their heartwarming stories and beautiful illustrations, perfect for snuggling up with your comfy reading pillow and making memories that will last long after the snow melts.

• Looking for more heartwarming stories? Check out all my favorite Christmas books for kids!

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Best Winter Books for Kids

The simple winter book is perfect for babies and toddlers! I love the sturdy pages, indestructible felt flaps, and bold, high-contrast illustrations.

Use the book to introduce winter vocabulary and build positive associates with books and reading.

• Check out more of my favorite bear books for kids!

This board book is a fun addition to Eric Carle’s beloved series, introducing young kiddos to the wonders of the winter season. With Carle’s signature vibrant collage illustrations, the book follows the curious caterpillar as he explores snowy landscapes, cozy homes, and wintertime traditions.

The simple, rhythmic text is engaging and perfect for babies and toddlers, while the study pages help the book to hold up over time.

First Snow is a beautifully illustrated picture book that captures the magic and quiet wonder of a child experiencing the first snowfall.

I love this book for its soft, dreamy illustrations and minimal, poetic text. It invites readers into a gentle winter adventure as a young girl steps outside to explore the snowy world. The story evokes a sense of curiosity and serenity, perfect for calming and engaging young readers.

Its focus on the sensory experience of snow makes it a perfect winter read.

This delightful seasonal book brings the charm of Busytown to life during the winter months!

Packed with Scarry’s signature detailed and humorous illustrations, the book introduces young readers to a variety of winter activities, from ice skating to building snowmen. Each page is brimming with lively characters and playful scenes. There is so much for kids to find, explore, and chat about!

The simple text and engaging artwork make it a perfect choice for toddlers and preschoolers.

This beautifully illustrated picture book introduces kids to the wonders of seasonal change!

The story follows Little Owl as he observes the signs of winter approaching, from leaves falling to animals preparing for hibernation. With its lyrical text and captivating artwork, the book conveys the transition into a snowy world, capturing the quiet magic of winter.

Little Owl’s curiosity and wonder make the story relatable for toddlers and preschoolers, encouraging them to notice changes in their own environment.

I love this heartwarming story about friendship, kindness, and the joy of giving!

The book follows Penguin as he finds a little pinecone in the snow and cares for it like a true friend. When he realizes Pinecone needs to return to the forest to thrive, Penguin selflessly brings him back to his natural habitat.

The simple yet touching text, paired with bold, adorable illustrations, makes this story engaging and accessible for toddlers and preschoolers. Its themes of love, letting go, and the enduring nature of friendship resonate with readers of all ages.

While not about snow, this cozy and delightful picture book celebrates the warmth of family and the joy of cooking together on a cold day.

The story follows a mother and her child as they prepare a pot of soup, from selecting fresh vegetables at the market to chopping, stirring, and waiting for the delicious meal to be ready. The vibrant, mixed-media illustrations add texture and charm, engaging young readers with colorful, relatable scenes.

The book also incorporates counting and shapes, making it both a fun and educational read. I love that the book includes a soup recipe that families can make together!

This classic winter picture book is unique in that it has no words!

Through beautifully detailed, hand-drawn illustrations, the story follows a young boy who builds a snowman that comes to life, leading to a night of wonder and adventure. The absence of text allows readers to interpret and immerse themselves in the emotions and details of the story, making it perfect for readers of all ages.

Its themes of friendship, joy, and the fleeting nature of special moments resonate deeply. I love exploring the illustrations together with kids!

This well-known book is a beautifully illustrated retelling of a classic Ukrainian folktale that captures the magic of winter and the wonder of animals.

The story begins with a boy who loses a white mitten in the snow, which becomes a cozy refuge for a growing number of woodland animals seeking warmth. Brett’s intricate illustrations, framed with detailed borders, provide visual clues about what will happen next, keeping young readers engaged and curious.

The repetitive, cumulative structure of the tale makes it perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, encouraging participation and anticipation.

The Snowy Day is one of my all-time favorite winter books for young kids – its a timeless classic for a reason!

The simple story follows Peter as he explores his snowy neighborhood, making tracks, building snowmen, and imagining adventures in the fresh, white blanket of winter. Keats’ vibrant collage-style illustrations bring the scenes to life, perfectly complementing the gentle, relatable narrative.

Celebrated for its universal appeal and groundbreaking representation of an African American protagonist in children’s literature, the book has become a cherished favorite.

This book may be without words, but it is certainly not lacking in story or things to explore on each page!

All Around Bustletown: Winter invites readers to explore the bustling activities of a charming town during the winter season. Each page is packed with delightful details and interconnected scenes, encouraging kids to follow characters and uncover new stories with every reading. From snow-covered streets to festive holiday preparations, the book captures the warmth and excitement of wintertime.

The interactive nature of the illustrations fosters observation skills and creativity, making it engaging for toddlers and preschoolers.

This poetic and evocative picture book captures the quiet beauty of a rural winter.

The story, told through simple yet lyrical text, describes the daily life and chores on a family farm during the colder months. Ted Rand’s warm, textured illustrations bring the scenes to life, from the snow-covered barn to the animals seeking shelter inside.

The book offers a gentle and nostalgic look at the rhythms of farm life, making it a perfect read for sharing with kids who love nature and animals.

Tracks in the Snow is a charming picture book that invites readers to join a young girl as she follows mysterious tracks outside her home on a snowy day.

The rhyming text is simple and engaging, perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, as it builds curiosity about who or what made the tracks. The soft, pastel illustrations create a cozy and whimsical winter atmosphere, drawing readers into the girl’s snowy adventure.

The story encourages observation, imagination, and a connection to nature.

I love this beautifully illustrated picture book for the way that it captures the quiet wonder and joy of a snowy day!

The story follows a young boy and his dog as they eagerly watch the first snowflakes fall, despite the doubts of the adults around them. The watercolor illustrations transition from muted tones to vibrant, snowy scenes, reflecting the magic of the transforming world.

The simple, repetitive text makes the book accessible and engaging for young kids, while its message of embracing possibility and wonder resonates with all ages.

Kids love the whimsical and imaginative way that this book answers the question, “What do snowmen do after we go to bed?”

The story reveals the secret lives of snowmen as they come to life at night to sled, skate, and have snowball fights under the moonlight. The rhyming text is lively and engaging, making it a joy to read aloud, while the vibrant and detailed illustrations add a playful charm to the tale.

Hidden objects in the illustrations encourage readers to look closely, adding an interactive element to the book. I love asking kids about what other things they think snowmen do at night.

This interactive book is a fun and engaging read-aloud!

The narrative follows a bunny eager to ski, but first, it needs snow. Readers are prompted to shake the book to make it snow, tilt it to help Bunny ski down the slope, and turn it to assist Bunny in navigating obstacles.

This hands-on approach engages children, making them feel like part of Bunny’s adventure. The illustrations are simple yet expressive, using a limited color palette to focus attention on the actions and Bunny’s journey.

The book’s design encourages physical interaction, enhancing motor skills and providing a fun, immersive reading experience.

This cozy, rhyming picture book celebrates kindness and sharing during the winter season.

The story follows William, a young boy who is ready for a snug night’s sleep, but one by one, animals knock on his door seeking warmth from the cold. Despite his small bed, William welcomes each guest, creating a heartwarming tale of generosity.

The rhyming text is soothing and perfect for bedtime reading, while Groenink’s warm, textured illustrations beautifully capture the wintry setting and the cozy indoor scenes.

The Biggest Snowman Ever is a heartwarming story about teamwork and friendship.

The tale follows two mice, Clayton and Desmond, as they compete to build the biggest snowman for their town’s contest. Realizing they can achieve more together than apart, they join forces to create an enormous snowman that amazes everyone.

The engaging story emphasizes the importance of cooperation and the joy of working toward a common goal. Jeni Bassett’s charming illustrations bring the snowy scenes and the characters’ determination to life.

This tender and visually stunning picture book is a sweet story about an unlikely winter friendship.

The story follows Miki, a curious polar bear cub, who spots a red “dot” in the snowy landscape—a little girl in a red coat. As their paths cross, Miki and the girl share a heartwarming adventure that highlights kindness and connection.

The lyrical text is perfectly complemented by Woodcock’s soft illustrations, which use muted tones with pops of red to create a captivating winter world.

This humorous and heartwarming winter tale about a snowman is a kid favorite!

Sneezy keeps trying to warm up—by drinking hot cocoa, sitting by a fire, or soaking in a hot tub—but each time, he melts! Thankfully, the children in the story work together to rebuild him and keep him happy.

The playful rhyming text makes it a fun read-aloud, while Stephen Gilpin’s lively and colorful illustrations add to the story’s charm. Sneezy the Snowman is a delightful book that combines humor with themes of friendship and problem-solving, making it a favorite for wintertime reading.

Bear’s Winter Party is a heartwarming story about generosity, community, and belonging.

The story follows Bear, who decides to host a winter party in his cozy cabin, inviting the forest animals to join him. At first, the animals are hesitant, unsure if Bear will be friendly, but they soon discover his kind and welcoming nature.

The lyrical text and bright illustrations create a warm, festive atmosphere, perfectly capturing the magic of winter gatherings. This book beautifully conveys the joy of inclusion and the importance of reaching out to others, making it a touching read.

This beautifully written and illustrated book explores the hidden world beneath the snow during winter.

The story follows a child and their parent as they ski through a snowy forest, observing the quiet, serene world above and learning about the animals that stay active below the snow’s surface.

The poetic text provides a sense of wonder and curiosity, while the stunning, layered illustrations capture the contrasts of the winter landscape. The book offers a perfect blend of storytelling and education, teaching children about wildlife and ecology in an engaging way.

Bear and Wolf is a quietly beautiful story about two unlikely companions who share a serene winter walk through the snowy woods.

Bear and Wolf meet by chance and, without speaking, enjoy the wonders of the wintry landscape together, from sparkling snowflakes to the glow of the moon.

The minimalist text and muted illustrations create a reflective and peaceful tone, inviting readers to savor the small details of nature. The story gently explores themes of friendship, mindfulness, and appreciating the present moment.

This book is inspired by a blizzard that John Rocco experienced during childhood that brought 53 inches of snow!

The story begins with a young boy’s excitement as the first snowflake falls outside his classroom window. As the snow accumulates, the neighborhood becomes isolated, and the boy embarks on a courageous journey to help his family and neighbors.

Rocco’s dynamic illustrations and concise text effectively convey the transformation of the familiar landscape into a snow-covered world, highlighting themes of community and resilience.

I love this gentle and poetic story about noticing the quiet beauty of a snowy day!

The book follows Lina, a young girl, as she walks to her grandmother’s house to help her make stuffed grape leaves. Along the way, she discovers ten unique ways to “hear” snow, from the crunch of her boots to the hush of snowflakes landing.

The story beautifully explores the bond between Lina and her grandmother, weaving themes of family, culture, and mindfulness. Pak’s soft illustrations capture the peacefulness of snow and complement Camper’s lyrical text.

The Tea Party in the Woods is a whimsical and enchanting picture book that blends fantasy with themes of kindness and bravery.

The story follows Kikko, a young girl who ventures into a snowy forest to deliver a pie to her grandmother after her father forgets it. Along the way, she stumbles upon a mysterious tea party attended by animals, who warmly welcome her into their gathering.

Miyakoshi’s black-and-white charcoal and pencil illustrations, accented with soft pops of color, create a dreamlike, wintry atmosphere that draws readers into the magical world. The story captures the essence of adventure, community, and the kindness of strangers.

This winter picture books is a sweet story about winter, waiting, and family.

The narrative follows a young boy named Ethan, who eagerly anticipates two significant events: the arrival of sugaring time for maple syrup and the loss of his loose tooth. As Ethan waits, he learns about patience and the natural progression of time.

The story tenderly portrays the bond between father and son, set against changing seasons. The illustrations complement the text, capturing the warmth of family life and the beauty of the natural world.

This heartwarming winter book for kids tells the story of Little Nell, a small girl who is often told by her family that she’s too little to help with big tasks.

Feeling discouraged, Little Nell retreats to the snowy woods, where her animal friends encourage her to build a snowman. Together, they create the biggest, best snowman ever, demonstrating that with determination and support, even the smallest individuals can achieve great things.

The story emphasizes themes of self-confidence, teamwork, and the joy of accomplishment. Hillenbrand’s charming illustrations bring the snowy setting to life, adding warmth and depth to this uplifting tale.

This winter book for kids is excellent for both its fun story and winter facts!

This story follows Squirrel and Bird as they experience winter for the first time. Squirrel, unfamiliar with snow, is initially puzzled and concerned when the ground turns white and cold. With Bird’s guidance, Squirrel learns to embrace the joys of winter, from playing in the snow to understanding the beauty of snowflakes. However, when the snow mysteriously disappears, Squirrel suspects a “snow thief” is at work.

The narrative cleverly introduces kids to seasonal changes and the natural cycle of snow melting. Hemming’s engaging storytelling, combined with Slater’s vibrant and expressive illustrations, makes this book a captivating read for children aged 4 to 8.

The book also includes bonus material explaining the changing seasons, enhancing its educational value.

I love that this winter book explores growing plants in the cold season!

The story follows a girl and her mother as they cultivate an indoor herb garden during the winter months, transforming their kitchen windowsill into a vibrant, green space.

The poetic narrative captures the nurturing process of planting and tending to the herbs, while the delicate watercolor and mixed-media illustrations beautifully depict the contrast between the cold, snowy outdoors and the warm, thriving indoor garden.

The book emphasizes themes of patience, growth, and the joy of bringing nature indoors during the colder season. Additionally, it includes practical instructions for readers interested in starting their own windowsill garden.

Inspired by the author’s years in Alaska, Counting Winter celebrates the rhythms of the tundra and its inhabitants, offering a perfect read for chilly days.

The book takes readers on a journey through a snowy landscape, introducing various animals and their winter activities, from one red fox quietly stalking to twelve excited children playing in the snow.

Carlstrom’s rhythmic, poetic text pairs with McGehee’s scratchboard art to create a captivating read-aloud experience. The illustrations, praised for their bold and intricate designs, complement the lively poetry, making it an engaging book for young kids.

White Snow, Bright Snow is a classic children’s picture book first published in 1947.

The story captures the anticipation and arrival of the first snowfall in a small town, depicting how various characters—the postman, the farmer, the policeman and his wife, and the children—prepare for and experience the snow.

The poetic prose conveys the beauty and tranquility of the snowy landscape and beautiful illustrations, rendered in soft blue tones with splashes of yellow and red, emphasize the happiness and humor of the scenes.

This celebrated children’s picture book received the Caldecott Medal in 1988 and continues to be a favorite for its lyrical storytelling and evocative artwork.

The story follows a girl and her father as they embark on a nighttime adventure to observe owls.

Yolen’s poetic prose captures the serene beauty of a winter night, emphasizing themes of patience, hope, and the bond between parent and child. Schoenherr’s watercolor illustrations complement the text, depicting the quiet, snow-covered landscape and the elusive owls with delicate detail.

Samson in the Snow is a picture book about kindness, friendship, and finding warmth in the coldest moments.

The story follows Samson, a woolly mammoth who spends his days tending his dandelion garden. When a small bird asks for flowers to cheer up a friend, Samson kindly gives them away. Later, as a snowstorm arrives, Samson ventures out to ensure the bird and her friend are safe, leading to a touching moment of connection.

The book’s quiet narrative invites reflection, making it a calming and comforting read. I love that it highlights the power of compassion and the beauty of unexpected friendships.

This is a timeless story about courage, determination, and love!

The book follows Irene, a dressmaker’s daughter, who braves a fierce snowstorm to deliver a gown to the duchess when her mother falls ill. Despite howling winds, deep snow, and treacherous conditions, Irene’s bravery and resilience shine as she perseveres through every obstacle.

The rich and descriptive language immerses readers in Irene’s snowy adventure and the expressive illustrations enhance the emotional journey. The story celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the power of kindness and responsibility.

Here is another heartwarming winter story about kindness, gratitude, and giving back.

Mrs. Goldman is known for knitting hats for everyone in the neighborhood to keep them warm during the winter, but she never knits one for herself. Sophia, a young girl who helps Mrs. Goldman with her “pom-pom duty,” notices this and decides to make a hat for Mrs. Goldman as a surprise, even though she’s not confident in her knitting skills.

The story beautifully highlights the importance of community and the joy of thoughtful gestures. Karas’ warm, textured illustrations complement the cozy, tender narrative.

The book includes a knitting pattern for those who want to make their own hat!

Winter Sleep: A Hibernation Story is a beautifully illustrated picture book that introduces young readers to the concept of hibernation and how animals adapt to winter.

The story follows a child visiting their grandmother in the countryside during winter, where they learn about animals that rest, hide, and sleep through the cold season.

The poetic text is engaging and educational, gently explaining hibernation while fostering a love for nature. The stunning illustrations vividly depict the contrast between the quiet winter world above ground and the bustling underground habitats of hibernating creatures.

Winter Sleep includes factual information about hibernation at the end, making it both a captivating story and a valuable educational resource.

This engaging non-fiction book answers common questions children have about snow in an easy-to-understand way, making it a perfect winter book for kids.

Part of the Smithsonian Readers series, the book explains how snow forms, why no two snowflakes are alike, and how snow can impact the environment. The simple text, paired with vivid photographs and illustrations, keeps kids interested while introducing scientific concepts about weather and winter.

This book is a great resource for curious minds who love exploring nature and learning about the world.

Here is a stunning collection of seasonal stories that celebrate the magic and wonder of winter!

The book features folktales and legends from various cultures, including tales of snow queens, frost giants, and winter spirits. Each story captures the unique traditions and beliefs of the regions they originate from, offering readers a rich and diverse tapestry of wintertime lore.

Goldhawk’s enchanting illustrations bring the stories to life, evoking the beauty and mystery of snowy landscapes and starry winter nights. This collection not only entertains but also introduces readers to cultural traditions and universal themes of resilience, generosity, and transformation.

What are your favorite winter books for kids?

I hope you have discovered some new books to read together with your kids this winter. Don’t feel the need to rush out and buy a bunch of books – head to your local library and see what you can find!

While this list highlights some of my favorite winter books for kids, there are so many more wonderful stories out there just waiting to be discovered. Winter is the perfect season to explore new tales and create cozy traditions that foster a lifelong love of reading.

What are your favorite winter books for kids? I’d love to hear about the stories that light up your family’s winter days. Share your recommendations, and let’s keep the magic of winter reading alive together!