One of my greatest joys in having kids is getting to dive into children’s books with them. My boys know I will stop whatever I am doing to read to them if they ask. Picture books are extra special because we value the illustrator as much as the author. A well-illustrated book with a good story is like hitting gold.
Today I wanted to share some of our family’s favorite picture books that make us laugh. There is real talent in creating a humorous children’s book. In my opinion, the ones that do it best are the ones that do not “dumb down” the humor. They use subtlety and restraint. The looks from the characters, the ridiculousness of the predicament can be enough if done right.
Below are 6 of our favorite picture books that make us laugh. If you are looking for an Christmas gift idea for a little one in your life, perhaps one of these will fit the bill.
This Moose Belongs to Me by Oliver Jeffers – We are all big fans of Oliver Jeffers. In fact, two of his books are on this list. His illustrations are genius. In this story, this bossy little boy and his pet moose have quite the relationship.
I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen – Here is another illustrator who writes great books for children and adults. The pauses in the book are the funniest! You’ll have to read it to see if the bear gets his hat back.
Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin, illustrated by Daniel Salmieri – The premise is ridiculous, and the illustrations make it even more so. Whatever you do, don’t let the dragons eat the spicy salsa.
Stuck by Oliver Jeffers – The second Oliver Jeffers book on this list is super silly. Everyone can relate to having something get stuck in a tree and throwing stuff at it to get it down. However, this little boy takes it to the next level.
Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Peter Brown – This is an example of how the illustrations can take a book from good to great. It’s spooky and funny all at the same time.
Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs by Mo Willems – So, so funny. Referencing a classic tale, Willems takes the reader on a silly twist to this story by replacing the bears with dinosaurs. And the fact that the third bear is Norwegian is the cherry on top.
If you are on Pinterest, feel free to follow along on my Children’s Books Board for more book ideas for kids.
