Stories That Pop!

There can be a thought that children’s literature must be saturated in vibrant rainbow colors to draw a child’s attention. The evidence is clear in other forms of children’s media with flashing pictures of colorful characters in hues of red, blue and yellow. But what gets lost in the mix of all that color can be the details and meaningful moments of both the story and the images. Playing with shadows, grayscale, and the use of black and white can make for an even more colorful experience that can capture readers of all ages. Thoughtful placement of color seems to be lost art in the space of children’s media, but below is a list of beautifully bold illustrated picture books that capitalize on color in a way that makes the stories pop!  

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America, My Love, America, My Heart

America, do you love me? A single question from a single child multiplies across the country with every page turn, inviting in more and more children of color–and their questions.


George and His Nighttime Friends

George learns to overcome his fear of the dark with the help of his new nighttime friends, an ensemble of endearing animals rendered in celebrated illustrator Seng Soun Ratanavanh’s wondrous, dreamy style.


I Am the Subway

A cinematic journey through the Seoul subway that masterfully portrays the many unique lives we travel alongside whenever we take the train. A poetic translation of the bestselling Korean picture book. 


The Night Walk

Mama opened our bedroom door. “Wake up, you two,'”she whispered. “Let’s go, so we get there on time.” Excited, the sleepy family step outside into a beautiful summer night. The world is quiet and shadowy, filled with fresh smells and amazing sights. Is this what they miss when they’re asleep? Together, they walk out of their sleeping village. What will they find in the dark landscape? 


Out on a Limb

Lulu does not mind having a broken leg while she is the center of attention, but after the newness wears off, it takes a visit from Grandpa and a well-timed letter to set things right. You can also check out this title as eBook on Hoopla.



The Walk

Told through pictures with no words, a man and his dog have a lovely surprise on their walk. 


When I Wake Up

A young child contemplates four different paths their day may take.