My Favorite Books of 2024

Picture Books and First Chapter Books

This year has been a unique chapter in my reading journey. 2024 marked my first full year working at an independent children's bookstore, and I can’t help but notice how much my job shaped my reading habits—sometimes in ways I didn’t expect. Most of the books I read were brand-new releases, which, in hindsight, made sense. Staying on top of the latest titles helped me keep up with the store’s inventory, connect with customers, and stay in the know about upcoming bestsellers. But while I was immersed in the fresh crop of 2024, I couldn't help but miss the thrill of hunting down picture books that were off the beaten path—those hidden gems or timeless classics I’d never heard of. Though I didn’t mind focusing on new releases for my adult reading, I found myself longing for the serendipity of discovering older picture books that spoke to me, or those I’d somehow missed over the years. Knowing this, I'll make an extra effort in 2025 to seek out some of those hidden gems. Of course, I did discover a lovely collection of 2024 picture books that filled my heart with joy and wonder. From lovable characters to unforgettable illustrations, these are the books that made me smile, laugh, and reflect. So grab your coziest blanket, because it's time to dive into my top picks for 2024

I Lived Inside A Whale by Xin Li

My world was too loud...too busy...and filled with too much of everything, everywhere, all the time.

This book didn't get a lot of love this year, but I could very easily relate to the young protagonist who creates her own space to escape the overstimulation in her life. I adored the little friend who helps her see that she can be herself, use her gifts, and find a way to exist in a world that quite often feels like too much. The illustrations were absolutely charming.

The Man Who Didn't Like Animals by Deborah Underwood and LeUyen Pham

One day, a dog appeared. "I don't like dogs," said the man. "Go away." But the dog didn't. The man liked watching the sunrise. So did the dog. The man liked gardening. So did the dog. The man liked taking walks. So did the dog. "Hmph," said the man. "Maybe THIS dog isn't so bad."

This is the origin story you never knew you needed. A phenomenal collaboration between Underwood and Pham, this picture book about Old MacDonald is read-aloud perfection; silly and sweet and one that begs to be read repeatedly.

Jump for Joy by Karen Gray Ruelle and Hadley Hooper

Joy loved dogs. She had loved dogs for as long as she could remember. Maybe even longer.

This book is the perfect example of a book that has been done hundreds of times (a child longing for a dog), but this time, it has been done in a way that makes you stop and go, "Wow!" The simple, repetitive text with brilliant illustrations (seriously, I can't stop gushing over them!) make this my top pick for the Caldecott this year.

Erno Rubik and His Magic Cube by Kerry Aradhya and Kara Kramer

But Erno didn't feel alone. He was with his books. He was with his pencils. And he was with his favorite playmates of all: his puzzles.

I have a confession. I adore picture book biographies and learn most of what I know about well-known (and not so well-known) individuals by reading picture books. I know they aren't always big sellers with kids, but I find them so utterly fascinating. I don't typically have the bandwidth to read a biography, but if you hand me a picture book about someone's life, I will devour it. Growing up in the 1980s, the Rubik's cube was everywhere, and I loved reading more about how it came to be. The bright illustrations absolutely enhanced the text.

Millie Fleur's Poison Garden by Christy Mandin

Millie Fleur didn't understand why the club was so upset about what she grew in her garden. "Your garden is different from anything they've seen before," her mother told her. "Some people are scared of things that are different."

Wednesday Addams meets The Curious Garden. This book is a delight from start to finish. Another topic that has been done a hundred times (individuals who are making the world a little better, one act at a time), but in Mandin's talented hands, this feels fresh and new. And good news, Millie Fleur is back in 2025 with a new book, and I can attest it is just as delightful.

A Stickler Christmas by Lane Smith

That night Stickler returned with a special solution. A present. I hope it's not a stick, thought Doug-the-Fir. It was a stick.

You needn't have read Smith's earlier book, Stickler Loves the World, to appreciate this Christmas book, but I highly suggest you do. I adore Stickler. They're a lot quirky, a bit weird, and 100% loveable. Stickler's joy and enthusiasm are contagious, and I think the world would be a better place if there were more Sticklers in it. I love a sweet Christmas story as much as the next person, but this whimsical and odd book has stolen my heart this year. Make sure you take time to look at the end pages!

The Yellow Bus by Loren Long

There was once a bright yellow bus who spent her days driving.

I've long (no pun intended) been a fan of Loren Long's work. His books feel timeless and classic and are ones I can see standing the test of time, passed down through the generations. A customer commented that this book was kind of depressing, and while I see her point, I appreciate the idea that life has different stages and that each stage can be beautiful in its own way. I have always loved the author's notes, and Loren Long's is worth reading in this book.

Knight Owl and Early Bird by Christopher Denise

"Hi - are you awake? My name is Early Bird! I'm your BIGGEST fan! I want to be a Knight Owl just like you! You can teach me everything. I'm a super-duper learner. I KNOW that I can be a Knight Owl! Look how big my eyes are! Do we stay up ALL night? What is your cape for? When do we start? Are there snacks at work?

Knight Owl took the children's book world by storm when it was published in 2022. People fell in love with the little owl who wanted to be a knight, and the book went on to win multiple awards and honors. In this follow-up, we're introduced to Early Bird, who just may be the cutest thing ever. Her enthusiasm and eagerness are a delight. I really enjoyed Knight Owl, but I think I like this one even more.

Stella & Marigold by Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall

Marigold had only been in the world for 35 hours, and she had only known Stella for one of them, but she knew right away that Stella was saying something very important. She stared at Stella and decided she loved her.

There is plenty to love in the first book in this new early chapter book series starring two sisters, Stella (age 7) and Marigold (age 4). The sisters share a sweet and loving bond while not being too serious. They share inside jokes and make everyday situations a little more magical with their imaginations. I love that it feels modern and classic at the same time. Perfect for the child who wants to move beyond picture books or parents looking for a good short-chapter book to read with their little one.

Little Shrew by Akiko Miyakoshi

Little Shrew is a very hard worker. A day in his life goes something like this.

Who knew you could be so enamored with a shrew? Little shrew is adorable and meticulous as we follow him through his days. Over three short stories, you are transported to a world where you immediately feel calmer and at peace. The ideas of living simply and finding joy in life without access and abundance are present, but they never feel preachy. The illustrations are absolutely stunning, and I found myself enamored by all the little details.

A Day with Mousse by Claire Lebourg, Translated by Sophie Lewis

As he does every morning before breakfast, Mousse steps outside onto the beach to take in the fresh air. Despite the early morning chill, he stands for a while at the water's edge. He likes the moment when his paw tips start to go numb and he has to run back to the warmth indoors.

Technically, this book was published in France in 2015, but the English translation was only recently published in 2024, so I am counting it as a 2024 book. If you're a fan of Frog & Toad or the more recent Cornbread & Poppy, I think you'll find much to love in this early chapter book. A cozy and slightly quirky read with an emphasis on finding joy in the simple everyday moments and welcoming unexpected friendships.

Lone Wolf Goes to School by Kiah Thomas and K-Fai Steele

Wolf could count his friends on one hand. Three, two, one...NONE! And that was the way he liked it. Wolf ate alone. Rode his bike alone. Played tennis alone.

Gosh, I love this one so much. I adore curmudgeons in children's literature and Wolf immediately earned a top spot. This book is so funny; an ode to the kids who aren't the joiners or the go-getters but rather the ones who would prefer to be left alone.

All these books can be found here if you want more information. I do earn a small commission if you purchase through the link. Thank you for supporting my work.

Have you read any of these? What do you think? What were your favorite reads of 2024?