Expand your child’s imagination with these ten diverse children’s books that inspire play!
From climbing trees to building model rockets, this list has something for every young reader. Enjoy reading them aloud, then head outside and use inspiration from the books to find new and creative ways to play!
Play is one of the first things that comes to mind when we think of childhood, so having children see themselves in books where play is happening is essential and affirming. Play is critical to children's development and overall wellbeing. The books in this collection celebrate and uplift all aspects of play. Contact us for additional suggestions at quotes@leeandlow.com.
written & illustrated by Christy Hale
BOSTON GLOBE-HORN BOOK BOOK AWARDS WINNER
⭐TWO STARRED REVIEWS⭐
"This extraordinary new picture book masterfully tackles the complex task of contextualizing seemingly complex architectural concepts within a child's own world of play." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
by Lesléa Newman, illustrated by Maya Gonzalez
"Children having fun without the onus of expectations is really what this book is about. Any child can aspire to anything, and their gender is not one of the conditions of the outcome. . . This is an engaging read-aloud told in rhyme where young children can see themselves as they explore and enjoy playing with their friends." —School Library Journal
by Andrea Zimmerman, illustrated by Jing Jing Tsong
COOPERATIVE CHILDREN'S BOOK CENTER (CCBC) CHOICES
⭐"Readers will delight in the breathtaking illustrations. Double-page spreads are rich and vibrant, Tsong using the colors of nature to evoke a warm and inviting environment. . . .Young readers will want to experience this book over and over again." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
by Jane Park, illustrated by Felicia Hoshino
CCBC CHARLOTTE ZOLOTOW AWARD COMMENDED TITLE
"Gentle watercolor illustrations mirror the text and capture the close and caring relationship that Juna and Appa share, as well as her feelings of vulnerability when she feels she isn't needed. . . This lovely message will resonate with empathetic readers everywhere." —Booklist
by Francisco X. Alarcón, illustrated by Maya Gonzalez
PURA BELPRÉ AUTHOR AWARD HONOR
AMÉRICAS AWARD COMMENDED TITLE
by Monica Brown, illustrated by Sara Palacios
PURA BELPRÉ ILLUSTRATOR AWARD HONOR
⭐"Marisol's varied, distinctive lifestyle and multiracial family affirms our increasingly blended society and clearly celebrates independent thinking. Brava!" —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
by Ina Cumpiano, illustrated by José Ramírez
⭐"Its child appeal, lovely message, and potential inspiration to young authors and artists make Quinito's Neighborhood a place that youngsters will enjoy visiting." —School Library Journal, starred review
written and illustrated by Lulu Delacre
BANK STREET COLLEGE OF EDUCATION BEST CHILDREN'S BOOKS OF THE YEAR
"Delacre closes each episode on a note of harmony, and casts her sibs as clothed coquis (small frogs) who, despite some teasing, plainly think the world of each other. . . . Sweet." —Kirkus Reviews
by Mia Wenjen, illustrated by Nat Iwata
BANK STREET COLLEGE OF EDUCATION BEST CHILDREN'S BOOKS OF THE YEAR
"This is a refreshing new take on the martial arts genre." —Kirkus Reviews
written and illustrated by Ying-Hwa Hu
DELAWARE LIBRARY ASSOCIATION BLUE HEN BOOK AWARD WINNER
"This engaging read is almost as enjoyable as the everyday adventure it depicts. A good choice for story time as well as one-on-one sharing." —School Library Journal
