Dear Readers,

Here is a list of picture books we love. We have tried to categorize them into books suitable for Pre-Nursery, Nursery, Kindergarten 1 and Kindergarten 2. Our earlier posts were for two year old and three year old children.

Today’s post is for four year old children. If you have any recommendations for us, do let us know in comments below. We have tried to include useful links for each book.

1.Bear feels ill by Karma Wilson & Jane Chapman

Mole, Hare, Mouse, and the rest of the gang are all ready to go out and play. But Bear is sick — really, really sick with a bad cold. Putting aside any thoughts of play, the loyal friends scamper about Bear’s cave to help him feel as comfortable as possible. Beautiful illustrations & a lovely message of caring & love. A must read for Children.

2. Anger – Social Well being series by Joy Cowley

The Joy Cowley Well-Being Series consists of 24 stories, promote physical, emotional and social well-being among children in a fun way. Children can identify with the simple characters in the book.

3.Room on the broom by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Sheffler

In this lightweight, witty story, helpful animals find “room on the broom” of a generous witch. Read the book to know how they save the witch from the Dragon who wanted to eat her. A message on kindness & an adventure. What more can you ask for!

4.Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons by Eric Litwin and illustrated by James Dean

Count down with Pete in this rocking story that makes counting fun! Pete the Cat is wearing his favorite shirt—the one with the four totally groovy buttons. But when one falls off, does Pete cry? Read the story to find out. Lovely story-line & Illustrations in all Pete the cat books and it also teaches about having the right attitude in life, when things go wrong.

5.Jack and the Flumflum Tree by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by David Roberts

Jack’s Granny is sick with a bad case of the moozles! And the only cure is the fruit of the fantastic flumflum tree which grows on the faraway Isle of Blowyernose. It’s a perilous journey, but Jack bravely sets sail. Read the book to find out if Jack is successful, A very innovative approach to snot, flum and having a cold. Beautiful imagination by Julia Donaldson combined with fantastic story, as always and lovely illustrations. Unique theme & a message of caring too.

6.A Duck so small by A.H. Benjamin, Elisabeth Holstein

A simple story about a small duck named Duffle who was ridiculed and laughed at but, one day there was an important job only Duffle could do. Read the book. A lovely message about valuing our differences and not ridiculing others.

7.A squash & a squeeze by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Sheffler

The first book by Julia Donaldson. A  simple story but a big message. The children love farm animals and this story is really a fun one. I have often wondered when I read this book if the message was also for us adults. Being grateful and happy in what we have often eludes us too, doesn’t it?

8.Wombat goes a walkabout by Michael Morpurgo and illustrated by Christian Birmingham

A lovely story to teach about some unusual animals. Wombat is searching for his mother. Wombat meets all kinds of wonderful creatures Kookaburra, Wallaby, Possum, Emu, Boy and Koala. Does he find his mom in the end? The story is in a different setting than usual and the illustrations give it a real like feel. Children will join the little wombat in his adventure & feel happy when he meets his mom in the end.

9.The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

“Once there was a tree…and she loved a little boy.”
So begins a story of unforgettable perception, beautifully written and illustrated by the gifted and versatile Shel Silverstein. Children will love this book and identify with the emotions of the giving tree. A personal favorite.

10.Stickman by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Sheffler

Stick Man lives in the family tree With his Stick Lady Love and their stick children three…. But the world is a dangerous place for a Stick Man. What are the trials the stick man faces? Does he get united with his family? Amazing book, Amazing illustrations. Children will want to read this book again & again. A book which will really highlight love for Family.

11.The Smartest Giant in Town by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Sheffler

George wishes he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. So when he sees a new shop selling giant-size clothes he decides it’s time for a new look. But on his way home he meets various animals who desperately need his help . . . and his clothes! Read on to find out what happens next. A beautiful story with lovely illustrations about kindness. Most of Julia’s books have a beautiful and subtle message for children and adults alike.

12.Giraffe’s can’t dance by Giles Andreae and Guys Parker Rees

The story is a gentle inspiration for every child with dreams. It is a is a touching tale of Gerald the giraffe, who wants nothing more than to dance. With crooked knees and thin legs, it’s harder for a giraffe than you would think. Gerald is finally able to dance to his own tune when he gets some encouraging words from an unlikely friend.

Hope you have enjoyed some of the books in this list already. If you love picture books just like we do, do lookout for the next final list and hope you add some to your collection.

Leave us a comment if you find these lists useful.

Thanks.

Love,

Poornima