The best books are always children’s books. Sometimes you pick up children’s books for the story; however, sometimes, the illustrations grab you. Illustrations make the books gorgeous for children. Furthermore, kids obsess over certain children’s books, and you will read them again and again and to infinity and beyond. The best illustrations in children’s books stay with us for life.
What makes children’s books high-quality?
It is no surprise that the pictures inform your child’s first impression of a book, so choosing books with wonderful illustrations is a perfect place to start. Like a piece of art, a good children’s book is greater than the sum of its parts. Illustrations inspire a child’s imagination, and in high-quality picture books, the illustrations really contribute as much as the story shared. Their illustrations are truly works of art, representing a range of artistic mediums and styles.
We’re living in a golden age of young-adult literature when readers of every generation equally adore books ostensibly written for teens. Here, I have curated 20+ must-read children’s books not just because of their remarkable stories but also because they feature beautiful illustrations. Your children will never be tired of reading these stories and looking at these beautiful illustrations. Or you can get some of these books as Audiobook, so your child can have a story time in your car. You can try Audible here for free!
* You should also check my other book list for your child, 30+ Best Inspiring Math Books for Children.
Which One Doesn’t Belong? a picture book for children written and illustrated by Christopher Danielson, features a thoughtfully designed set of four shapes on each of the book’s vibrant pages. When asked, “Which one doesn’t belong?” each of the shapes has the potential to provide the correct response. Students are naturally led to shift their focus to justifications and arguments based on the geometric properties of the shapes because all of their answers are correct answers.
Danielson shows how to facilitate rich discussions and teach mathematical argumentation using Which One Doesn’t Belong? in the companion teacher’s guide, which can be purchased under the ISBN number 978-1-62531-081-1. He demonstrates how to listen to students’ ideas about shapes with respect and attentiveness. Danielson summarizes the research that has been conducted on how children learn geometry, discusses the place of geometry in the overall mathematics curriculum, and provides a wealth of helpful advice regarding the many different ways in which Which One Doesn’t Belong? can be used in the classroom. He also discusses the mathematical ideas that are likely to emerge on each page, and he helps teachers anticipate and think about students’ likely answers by drawing from his direct experience using Which One Doesn’t Belong? At several different grade levels. This information is drawn from his direct experience.
The majority of educational programs reduce the study of geometry to little more than vocabulary exercises. Which One Doesn’t Fit in the Picture? as well as the guide that goes along with it is potent and adaptable resources that teachers can use to spark animated conversations and in-depth learning about shapes with students of all ages.”
There’s something unequivocally charming about the way Deborah Heiligman introduces young readers—and those young at heart—to the compelling story of one of history’s most prolific mathematicians in The Boy Who Loved Math. It is no small feat to transform the biographical account of Paul Erdős, a mathematician, into an accessible and engaging children’s book. Yet, with Heiligman’s nimble craftsmanship and LeUyen Pham’s vibrant illustrations, the audience is drawn into a world where numbers dance and life is a series of fascinating equations.
Paul Erdős is not your typical historical figure—or mathematician, for that matter. Widely known for his eccentricities and an incredible body of work spanning hundreds of collaborative papers, Erdős is something of a legend in the math world. This book peels back the layers of his complex persona, revealing a man driven by passion and curiosity, his love for math trumping mundane life skills like buttering bread.
What captivates about The Boy Who Loved Math is not just the whimsical portrayal of Erdős’ peculiarities but also the underlying message that brilliance can take on many forms. Erdős’ unorthodox life is a testament to individuality and finding one’s own path in the world. He was a mathematical nomad, carrying his love for numbers across continents and sharing it generously through collaboration.
Heiligman’s text is a delightful mix of simplicity and depth, encapsulating complex ideas in a way that sparks interest without overwhelming the young reader. She has a gift for pinpointing moments of humanity within a subject that can often appear daunting or sterile to the uninitiated.
Meanwhile, Pham’s illustrations do more than animate Erdős’ story—they weave numbers and symbols seamlessly into the artwork, reinforcing the book’s theme that math is everywhere. The artwork is a rich canvas, portraying a vigilant attention to detail that mirrors the intricacies of Erdős’ own mind.
However, this book is more than just a chronicle of an exceptional life; it serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of nurturing unique talents and encouraging exploration. Erdős didn’t fit the mold, and yet, or perhaps consequently, he was able to carve out a niche that had profound implications for the field of mathematics.
In conclusion, The Boy Who Loved Math is an affectionate, spirited biography of Paul Erdős. It is an inspiring tale for children and adults alike, reminding us of the beauty lying in numbers and the pursuit of knowledge. Heiligman and Pham have crafted a loving tribute not just to a man, but to mathematics itself, inviting readers to question, explore, and maybe—just maybe—fall in love with math too.
The cosmos and our own planet Earth are realms of infinite wonder and complexity, something that Seth Fishman captures with delightful clarity in “A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars.” The book is a compelling synthesis of facts, figures, and illustrations that invites readers to ponder the incomprehensibility of the numbers defining our universe.
A key charm of the book lies in the colorful, whimsical artwork by Greenberg. The illustrations are more than mere visual treats; they are essential storytellers that make sense of the astronomical numbers presented. From the sporadic scattering of stars to the verdant sprawl of forest canopies, the art lifts the astronomical numbers off the page and into the imaginations of the readers.
Fishman addresses youngsters with an affable and engaging tone that turns potential intimidation before large figures into an irresistible curiosity. The author manages to tow the fine line between imparting wisdom and keeping the vibe light-hearted. It’s easy to forget you are learning when the voice guiding you sounds like an enthusiastic friend.
Without question, the book is a treasure trove for educators and parents eager to introduce children to STEM subjects. It’s good at igniting curiosity about math, science, and the natural world. The facts presented are thought-provoking and often spark deeper conversations about our place in the universe, conservation, and the environment.
Although the subject matter might suggest a niche audience, “A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars” is surprisingly versatile. If your child enjoyed “Ada Twist, Scientist” or the numerical adventures of “How Much Is a Million?” this book fits perfectly into that gallery of inspiring reads. It’s a potential springboard into a love for all things science and math, even for those whose passion lies elsewhere.
While many consider storytime an affair of fables and fantasies, Seth Fishman shows that there’s magic to be found in reality too. With its plethora of captivating facts, the book is a unique choice for a bedtime story. It’s an ode to the real-life enchantment that surrounds us, often overlooked in our daily lives.
In conclusion, “A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars” is a magnificent exploration of the large numbers that shape our universe. By blending education with mirthful narration and vibrant illustrations, it enthralls young readers and provokes a profound sense of awe and curiosity. This book assures a spot on the shelves of those who cherish the blend of knowledge with a dash of wonder, reminding us all of the beauty inherent in learning.
Infinity and Me by Kate Hosford is an enchanting exploration of a concept so vast that even adults often struggle with it. Through the eyes of a curious little girl named Uma, Hosford brings the idea of infinity to a level that young children can understand and relate to.
What stands out most about Infinity and Me is its ability to make a complex subject approachable for young readers. Uma, the protagonist, wonders about infinity and poses this massive question to her family, teachers, and friends. Their answers are varied and grounded, reflecting the responses one might expect from real K-2nd graders, a detail that Hosford thoughtfully notes in the book.
Hosford’s deft handling of the subject matter ensures that the book is not just educational but also deeply engaging. By intertwining big questions with everyday experiences, she ensures that children don’t feel overwhelmed by the concept of infinity but instead find it intriguing and approachable.
Infinity and Me is an exceptional book that succeeds in making a complicated idea accessible to children. Kate Hosford’s thoughtful approach, combined with her attention to authentic childlike curiosity, makes this book a valuable addition to both educational settings and bedtime reading. If you’re looking for a way to introduce young readers to the wonders of big ideas while keeping them grounded in the familiar, Infinity and Me is a stellar choice.
Dive into the endless possibilities of thinking about infinity with Uma and her friends. You might find yourself seeing the universe through a new lens, too.
