Top 10 | Winter | Maples & Poppies

You’ve probably heard the quote, “Autumn, the year’s last, loveliest smile”. I’ve always assumed this is because what comes after autumn is the proverbial frown on everyone’s face. With the frigid temperatures, inevitable weight gain, pale and dry skin, being stuck indoors, this quote always made perfect sense to me.

Until this year.

This winter has been amazing! And, ironically, I believe it’s because this has been the first time in many years we’ve experienced a true winter. Because of all the wintry weather, I’ve been able to stay home, inside, out of the cold – only venturing out to do the fun snow activities with my family. The snow has also been incredibly beautiful; sparkling in the sun, falling silently during the night, flakes so big they beg you to stand at the window and watch with wide eyes.

This winter has been cold, snowy, icy, slow, cozy, snuggly, and meaningful – a winter wonderland.

Here are some winter books that have sparked creativity and a love of this season in my home and in my classroom. Winter is, indeed, a beautiful time of year. I’m just sad it took me so long to realize it.

Our 10 favorite winter books:

The Wish Tree by Kyo Maclear, illustrated by Chris Turnham
My current favorite with illustrations so charming I would hang them in my home. The adventure of Charles and Boggan is sure to melt even the coldest of wintry hearts.
Walking in a Winter Wonderland as sung by Peggy Lee, illustrated by Tim Hopgood
Another current obsession is books that have illustrated a song. I love singing to my children and having Tim Hopgood’s pictures to go with it is more than the icing on the cake-it creates an experience.
One Snowy Day by Diana Murray, illustrated by Diana Toledano
Rhymes, elegant phrasing, counting up and down, lovely illustrations. This book is a must. (Read more about why we love this book here.)
William’s Winter Nap“>William’s Winter Nap by Linda Ashman, illustrated by Chuck Groenink
William has many hibernating visitors during the night. A story about kindness, hospitality, and sharing what we have.
Brave Irene by William Steig
This is a story I just discovered this year, but it was love at first read. Irene is strong, resilient, brave, and loyal. I want to be like her. And the way William Steig writes of the winter storm makes me feel as if I’m back in South Dakota in January. Brutal.
Snow Sisters by Kerri Kokias, illustrated by Teagan White
Teagan White never misses. These illustrations will capture your attention immediately. It is a celebration of winter, regardless of how you choose to celebrate it.
Over and Under the Snow by Katie Messner, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal
Ahhhhh, a beautifully written non-fiction story. With phrases like “a shelter of spruce”, and “mountains in the marsh”, this story tells of the “secret kingdom” under our feet in the winter. And it’s tied with a bow with a wonderful index full of true information about the animals in the story.
Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter by Kenard Pak
This is the perfect transition book to read during the change of seasons. It begins with “wispy winds” taking the leaves from the trees and ends with snowflakes falling in a “white, misty curtain”.
Little Fox in the Snow by Jonathan London, illustrated by Daniel Miyares
This is another book I just discovered this year. It tags along with a young fox as he goes on a hunt. He successfully catches a mouse and a rabbit before meeting with a more worthy adversary. Kids will be enthralled by the hunt.
Mice Skating by Annie Silvestro, illustrated by Teagan White
Not only is Teagan White one of our favorite illustrators, but this story is as charming as they get. If you’re looking for the perfect blend of cute coziness and outdoor fun, this is the book for you! (Here’s even more about why we love it.)