Even before having my own children, children’s books were a favourite for me. I have always loved the clever story lines, humour, and beautiful use of words and illustrations. As a teenager, I dreamed of publishing my own book one day.

Now as a mother, I love researching children’s stories, and browsing our local bookstores to find new favourites to read at bedtime. These are some of our latest finds:

You’re Called What? by Kes Gray: I love this book. This book introduces us to many new animals, all with peculiar, amusing names. You’ll laugh, and you’ll learn a little something too! This story has great illustrations to match, and there’s even a page of animal facts and photographs at the end!

Hello Horse by Vivian French: If you have a little one who loves horses (like we do!), I highly recommend this book. It’s a sweet, simple story, accompanied by beautiful illustrations. Little lessons and facts about horses are incorporated throughout the story.

Carson Crosses Canada by Linda Bailey: Our littlest was given this book recently, and it’s become an instant favourite for both of us. The illustrations are gorgeous, and I love the story of Carson and his owner Annie traveling across Canada. The author teaches the reader a lot about Canada – but you don’t even realize you’re learning, because the story is so sweet! As I was reading, I kept wishing I had a map of Canada, to show my daughter how far Carson travelled. I turned the last page … and there it was! Complete with labels of the places that Carson and Annie explored along the way.

Through the Elephant’s Door by Hélène de Blois: This is a fun and entertaining story about a boy, his elephant, and their adventures at the museum. This sweet story focuses on themes of friendship and trust, and is accompanied by lovely illustrations.

A Library Book for Bear by Bonny Becker: Bonny Becker’s Mouse and Bear books may be my favourite series of all. We have 4 of these stories, and I absolutely love each and every one. A Library Book for Bear is no exception; a lovely story about Bear’s hesitation to visit the library. As always, beautiful illustrations accompany the sweet story line.

The Cool Bean by Jory John & Pete Oswald: Our daughter recently brought this book home from the school library. It’s a cute little story, with such a great lesson about kindness. Sprinkled with humour, this was an immediate hit with both of us!

Mother Bruce by Ryan T Higgins: This book ranks as one of my all-time favourite children’s books. This book tells the story of a case of mistaken identity: a grumpy bear accidentally becomes Mama to a flock of baby goslings. It’s a cute, humorous story with lovely illustrations.

Gabby by Joyce Grant: Our youngest chose this book at the library, and we really enjoyed it. The adventure begins when Gabby accidentally drops her book, and all of the letters fall out! This book is a great way to introduce or practice letters and reading with your child; and it’s a very cute story!

Norman Didn’t Do It by Ryan T. Higgins: This is a cute book about friendship, and change. Written by the author of Mama Bruce, the story follows a porcupine and his best friend Mildred, a tree.

We are always looking for the next book to read. What are your current favourites? Please comment below!

I’m going to start building a little directory of favourite children’s books – follow along as it grows!