A walk down memory lane, one picture book at a time.
Some stories stay with us long after we’ve outgrown bedtime reading. These are the books that made Rae fall in love with reading—the ones she asked to be read again (and again), the ones that sparked her imagination, made her laugh, and taught her to dream a little bigger. Whether you’re looking for a cozy read for a little one in your life or just feeling nostalgic, here’s a list of Rae’s forever favorites.
Llama Llama by Anna Dewdney
Whether it’s bedtime, school time, or drama at the grocery store, Llama Llama made everyday moments feel big and important—and always ended with a hug.
The Curious Garden by Peter Brown
A beautifully illustrated tale about a boy who nurtures a gray city into blooming color. This story planted the early seeds of wonder, growth, and care for the world around us.
Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems
Trixie’s hilarious meltdown over her beloved bunny is unforgettable. A perfect blend of real-life photos and cartoon chaos that captures the drama of childhood with heart and humor.
Fancy Nancy by Jane O’Connor
Rae loved Nancy’s flair for all things fancy—from tiaras to French vocabulary. These stories reminded her that being yourself is always in style.
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
A classic for a reason. Max’s wild adventure through imagination and emotion showed Rae that even the wildest hearts still crave home.
Ladybug Girl by David Soman and Jacky Davis
Ladybug Girl showed Rae that little girls can be brave, bold, and full of wonder—all while exploring the backyard with a big imagination.
The Napping House by Audrey Wood
This dreamy, cumulative tale was a bedtime staple. Rae was captivated by the gentle rhythm and cozy chaos of everyone piling on for a nap.
How Rocket Learned to Read by Tad Hills
Watching Rocket go from unsure pup to passionate reader mirrored Rae’s own journey with books. It’s a heartwarming ode to learning, patience, and persistence.
Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister
With shimmering scales and a simple message about sharing, this was one of Rae’s first introductions to beauty, kindness, and what it means to be a good friend.
Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
A timeless Boston tale of ducklings navigating a busy world with the help of kind strangers. Rae loved the gentle rhythm and the idea that even little ones have places to be.
Stories That Stay With You
These picture books weren’t just stories—they were the foundation of Rae’s love for reading. If you’re starting your own library or revisiting old favorites, these titles are a beautiful place to begin.
