It’s my first year participating in #pb10for10! Choosing just 10 picture books that I can’t live without is so difficult. I adore so many PBs, but here are 10 that I absolutely need in my life (in no particular order):
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
This one hardly needs an explanation. I love anything by the great Theodore Geisel, but this one in particular strikes a major chord. Even the grumpiest of villains can transform into loving friends.
Mrs. Biddlebox by Linda Smith, illustrated by Marla Frazee
I read this one earlier this year and wish I had discovered it sooner! It’s so creative and is a wonderful reminder that gloomy feelings don’t have to prevail over a day. I love the illustrations in this book.
Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site by Sherri Duskey Rinker, illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld
What a well-crafted bedtime story! The rhythm is absolutely perfect and the use of construction trucks is genius. Can someone read this to me every night?
The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs! by Jon Scieszka, illustrated by Lane Smith
I’ve loved this picture book since I was a child. The characterization of Alexander T. Wolf is flawless. Every time I read this story aloud, my voice automatically takes on a wolfish quality.
Miss Spider’s Tea Party by David Kirk
Another one of my favorite picture books as a child. My sister and I read this one over and over when we were young. I love how Miss Spider is characterized as a friendly arachnid who only wants to have friends over for tea.
The Hallo-Wiener by Dav Pilkey
I’m a sucker for anything Halloween-related. The language and word choice in this story captured my attention when I first read it. I can’t help but love those sneaky cats in the illustrations. And what a wonderful first line!
Bone Dog by Eric Rohmann
Can you tell that I’m obsessed with dogs? Losing a pet is a difficult event for anyone to face, and this heartwarming story shows that the love between a child and his dog is never-ending.
Ugly Pie by Lisa Wheeler, illustrated by Heather Solomon
Playful language in picture books is a major hook for me, and the word choice and rhythm in this story make me want to sing and dance. (And bake pie!)
Trout, Trout, Trout! by April Pulley Sayre, illustrated by Trip Park
This book always has me smiling the whole way through! Great, playful language captures my attention along with LOL-worthy illustrations.
Pssst! by Adam Rex
What an inventive story! The zoo animals are downright hilarious and the illustrations are so detailed. I just love the surprise ending.
Moonlit KidLit 
Great list. There are a few I have to go find and read. I came upon Miss Spider only a few years ago and find it so twisted and intriguing at the same time. You just wrote on my 52 first drafts blog. I am so happy you were inspired to write more. Do it! I promise you will not be disappointed by the results. And If you need a cheerleader, just ask!
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Thanks, David! It was so difficult to choose. And thank you for the encouragement and support! It’s always helpful to have a cheerleader or two around.
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