The Magic of Picture Books

Picture books are amazing tools to allow children to explore the world beyond their own experiences. They’re also just as beneficial for adults. Now, more than ever, picture books are tailored to entertain both children and adults. After all, they are generally read aloud from the latter to the former so it makes sense that they appeal to adults as well.

For adults who are still building their literacy confidence and skills, reading picture books – either to themselves or aloud to a child – is, personally, a very beneficial way to actively practice both decoding and comprehension in a less daunting way.

Below is a list of my current favourites, which aren’t too wordy and contain a lot of humour.

  • Baa Baa Smart Sheep by Mark Sommerset and its sequel I Love Lemonade – Written in a series of speech bubbles, both are centred around a cunning sheep and a dim but loveable turkey.
  • I’m Not a Worm by Scott Tulloch – In the same vein as the Mark Sommerset books.
  • Stuck by Oliver Jeffers – A hilarious tale about a boy who uses unconventional ways of getting his kite out of a tree.
  • It’s a Book by Lane Smith – A funny look at how tablets and computers are the new book. Or are they?
  • This Book Just Ate My Dog by Richard Byrne – A unique story that cleverly manipulates the way books are bound.
  • The Story of the Little Mole Who Knew it Was None of His Business by Werner Holzwarth – An oldie but a goodie.