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31 Best February Picture Books for Kids: Favorite Read Alouds

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Best February picture books for kids aligned in two rows with white transparent text box and colorful font. Book covers feature children's classes and new releases on topics of kindness, compassion, diversity, love, and beautiful stories.

{Updated December 20,2024}

February Picture Books for Kids. This February booklist for kids is filled with literary gems centered around friendship, compassion, fun animal stories, penguins, fairy tales, and many beautiful stories. The hunt remains for a Groundhog Day favorite. This booklist for kids is the second of twelve monthly booklists, so make sure you sign up for my mailing list to have it delivered straight to your inbox. I hope you enjoy these beautiful stories throughout the month of February. Yes, I know there are only 28 days but it seemed more consistent to have 31 books on each list. 🙂
Please note that the targeted age range for this booklist is for 3-6 years old.

Welcome to Sprinkled with Stories: A Story-Formed Childhood. Here is February Picture Books for Kids Booklist! Scroll to the pink box and grab your freebie and printable booklist.

If you missed the 31 Best January Picture Books for Kids, grab the list here. It may be one of my favorites yet.

Free Printable for the booklist Best Books for February for Kids with 25 book spines coloring page with fun additional images such as penguins, heart balloons, and more.
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31 Best February Picture Books for Kids: Favorite Read Alouds

1. The Happy Lion by Louis Fatio

A big yellow lion smiles on the orange children's classic book cover, "The Happy Lion," an old childrens book.
The Happy Lion by Louis Fatio

One day the Happy Lion’s enclosure is left open, and he adventures into the city. The Happy Lion is confused and concerned because everyone is acting odd and unfriendly except for the little boy.

2. The Circus Ship by Chris Van Dusen

A large barge with circus animals sails across the ocean on the book cover of "The Circus Ship" by Chris Van Dusen, a book on the best February Picture Books for kids booklist.
The Circus Ship by Chris Van Dusen

This is one of our all time favorite picture books. Mr. Paine, the circus owner, a greedy man selfishly abandons the circus animals when the ship runs aground. The fifteen animals swim to a nearby island off the coast of Maine. At first, the villagers are concerned but the animals are welcomed into the community. Mr. Paine returns for his animals and amusingly with the help of the villagers the animals hide in plain sight to escape the mean old Mr. Paine.

3. Katy No-Pocket by Emmy Payne

A mother kangaroo and her joey smiles at a construction worker wearing a blue apron with many pockets on the bright yellow book cover of "Katy No-Pocket," a book on the booklist of children's books about perseverance.
Katy No-Pocket by Emmy Payne
Amazon | Amazon Alternative

A determined mama kangaroo sets out to solve a big problem. She is a mama kangaroo with no pocket to carry her baby, Freddy. She seeks advice from the other animal moms. Their responses leave her discouraged, but she is determined and keeps persevering for the sake of her little one.

4. Norman the Doorman by Don Freeman

The creative mouse, Norman the Doorman stands by the mouse hole door on a snowy day on the classic picture book by Don Freeman, "Norman the Doorman" , a book featured on the Best Books for February for Kids Booklist.
Norman the Doorman by Don Freeman
Amazon | Amazon Alternative

This is an inspiring story set in a museum about a creative mouse with an intriguing hobby.

5. Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Patridge by Mem Fox

A young red-headed boy races his skateboard by an older lady in a colorful dress, sitting in a wicker chair on the book cover of "Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Patridge," a book about compassion for kids.
Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Patridge by Mem Fox

Keep a tissue handy because this is a beautiful story and a profound book. Wilfrid often visits his elderly friends. He is informed that his favorite, Miss Nancy Alison Delacourt Cooper, has lost her memory. This precious boy sets out to help her find it.

6. Koala Lou by Mem Fox

Koala Lou rides her mom's shoulders on the book cover of "Koala Lou" by Mem Fox, a book on the Valentine books for preschool booklist.
Koala Lou by Mem Fox

A young koala named Koala Lou used to receive all of her mother’s love, but now she has to share her mom with her siblings. She feels forgotten, so she enters the Bush Olympics to compete for her mother’s attention and to hear her say, “I do love you, Koala Lou.” This is a great book to share with children of all ages.

7. Boxes for Katje by Candace Fleming

A Russian community joyfully surrounds a little girl, brining her boxes on sleds through the snow on the book cover of "Boxes for Katje," a book on the thankful books for kids booklist.
Boxes for Katje by Candace Fleming

Katje’s town of Olst in Holland is devastated after After World War II. One day, Katje receives a package from an American girl named Rosie from Mayfield, Indiana. Katje sends a thankful letter, igniting a beautiful friendship. This story is so inspiring and filled with important lessons. I do not feel that I do it justice in this small summary. This is a wonderful book.

8. Nobody Hugs a Cactus by Carter Goodrich

A grumpy cactus hits in a window sill on the book cover of "Nobody Hugs a Cactus," a book on the Valentine books for preschool booklist.
Nobody Hugs A Cactus by Carter Goodrich

Hank, the grumpiest and prickliest cactus in the desert. Despite his love for peace and isolation, a simple comment, “Nobody hugs a cactus,” sparks an unfamiliar feeling in Hank. Slowly but surely, a seed of desire to have a friend takes root in his prickly little heart. Hank is reminiscent of the stereotypical old man yelling at kids to get off his lawn who needs a friend. The beautiful illustrations convey the story and emotion clearly.

9. You Are Special by Max Lucado

A wooden doll rests on a wood workman's table on the book cover of "You are Special" by Max Lucado, a book on the Valentine books for preschool booklist.
You Are Special by Max Lucado

In the wooden village of Wemmicksville, dolls were given shiny stars for their achievements and dots for their failures. Punchinello, covered in dots, thought he was worthless until he met Lucia. Surprisingly, none of the stickers stuck to Lucia. She then introduced him to Eli, the woodworker. With Eli’s guidance, Punchinello discovers that it’s not the opinions of others that determine your worth, but rather God’s unconditional love for you.

10. Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli

Mr. Hatch wearing a orange blazer and yellow tie smiles big framed by a heart heart on the book cover of "Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch" by Eileen Spinelli, a book on the Valentine Books for Preschool booklist.
Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli

In this sweet story, Mr. Hatch lives a lonely life. He receives a Valentine’s Day package that completely transforms his outlook. Mr. Hatch begins acting neighborly and showing love to others. But when he discovers the package was not intended for him, he becomes depressed. His neighbors become concerned and rally around him to express their love for Mr. Hatch.

11. Jonty Gentoo: The Adventures of a Penguin by Julia Donaldson

Jonty the Gentoo penguin stands on an ice bank staring out in the arctic waters on the new release picture book "Jonty Gentoo: The Adventures of a Penguin" by Julia Donaldson, a book on the Best Books for February for Kids booklist.
Jonty Gentoo: The Adventures of a Penguin by Julia Donaldson

This is a fun animal tale about a spunky penguin named Jonty Gentoo that sneaks out of the zoo after hearing exciting stories about the South Pole but he swims to the wrong pole.

12. The Emperor’s Egg by Martin Jenkins

A father emperor pequin keeps his baby chick cozy tucked under his tummy on the book cover "The Emperor's Egg" by Martin Jenkins, a book featured on the Best Letter E books for preschool and kindergarten booklist.
The Emperor’s Egg by Martin Jenkins

This is a fun nonfiction picture book about the Emperor penguin and how it cares for an egg in the freezing cold.

13. Flora and the Penguin by Molly Idle

Flora, a little girl with a yellow knit hat and ice skates, glides across the ice gracefully holding hands with a penguin on the wordless picture book "Flora and the Penguin" by Molly Idle, a book featured on the best letter P books for preschool and kindergarten booklist.
Flora and the Penguin by Molly Idle

In this wordless picture book, Flora forms an expected friendship with a penguin through the joy of dancing. It features interactive flaps that unveil their graceful dance moves along the ice. If you enjoyed this book, check out Flora and the Peacocks.

14. How to Send a Hug by Hayley Rocco

A little girl hugs her bundle of mail tightly while her duck hugs her in front of her mailbox on the book cover of "How to send a hug," a book on the Valentine books for preschool booklist.
How to Send a Hug by Hayley Rocco

In this sweet book, Artie wants to hug her grandmother but she’s so far away. So, she shows the readers how to send a handwritten letter. This sweet story is a great reminder of the power of thoughtful actions and words. Young readers will love this story, and it might spark a desire to send letters to their friends and distant family members.

15. Special Delivery by Philip C. Stead

A little girl and an elephant fly in an airplane upside down across the cover of a children's book "Special Delivery" by Philip C. Stead, a book on the best letter E books for preschool and kindergarten booklist.
Special Delivery by Philip C. Stead

In this humorous story, a spunky young girl named Sadie is on a mission to deliver an elephant to her Great-Aunt Josephine. Sadie is determined to bring this large companion to her lonely aunt. She files an airplane, boards a train, and even hitches a ride on an alligator.

16. Rosie’s Wild Ride by Paige Murray

A large Clydesdale horse prances in the arena at the rodeo on the new release picture book "Rosie's Wild Ride: Chasing Big Rodeo Dreams" by Paige Murray, a book on the best books for February fo kids.
Rosie’s Wild Ride by Paige Murray

In this heartwarming tale, Rosie the Clydesdale and a spirited little cowgirl named Oakley aspire to become rodeo stars. However, Rosie’s size presents challenges in rodeo events. The courageous duo unexpectedly rises to heroism when a rogue bull creates chaos. This delightful book is a fantastic addition to any young horse enthusiast’s reading list.

17. Annie and the Wild Animals by Jan Brett

A little girl named Annie stands in the snow staring at a heard of wild forest animals on the beloved and classic children's title "Annie and the wild animals" by Jan Brett, a beloved book on the best letter A books for preschool and kindergarten booklist.
Annie and the Wild Animals by Jan Brett

This classic picture book by Jan Brett is about a sweet young girl named Annie searching for a new pet after her cat disappeared. She places corn cakes at the forest’s edge and many wild animals enjoy the treats. But none of the wild animals are soft like her cat. Annie notices the signs of spring and her sweet cat coming up the path, excited to show Annie her three kittens.

18. So Much Snow by Kristen Schroeder

A little bear peeks from a pile of snow and watches snowflakes on the children's book cover "So Much Snow," a book on the Best December Picture Books for Kids booklist.
So Much Snow by Kristen Schroeder

This is a sweet picture book about seven forest animals in a snowstorm. The snow continues to pile up through the week. Finally, on Sunday, the sun peeks through the clouds, and the snow melts. But is it truly the start of spring, or is that more snow falling?

19. Polar Bear by Candace Fleming

A mother polar bear cuddles close to her two bear cubs in the snow on the nonfiction picture book "Polar Bear" by Candace Fleming, a book on the Best Books for February for Kids, A Picture Book Collection.
Polar Bear by Candace Fleming

In this captivating non-fiction picture book, a mother polar bear and her cubs awaken from hibernation and embark on a hard journey back home. The book presents facts in a captivating way for young readers.

20. Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreno Played the Piano for President Lincoln by Margarita Engle

A young Spanish girl wearing a white dress plays an upright piano as the keys and beautiful flowers and birds carry above on in contrast to her dark sad surroundings on the book cover of "Dancing Hands," a book on the best February picture books for kids booklist.
Dancing Hands by Margarita Engle

As a young girl, Tersea’s hands danced across the piano, sharing joy through her music. A revolution in Venezuela forced her family to flee to a strange country where few people spoke Spanish. Yet there was a war in the United States, too. Teresa continued to play, becoming so famous that she played for President Abraham Lincoln at the White House. CONTENT WARNING: Slavery, war, hardship.

21. The Green Piano: How Little Me Found Music by Tonya Bolden

A young African American girl in a yellow dress sings and plays on a green piano on the book cover of "Roberta Flack The Green Piano How Little Me Found Music," a book on the best February picture books for kids booklist.
The Green Piano by Tonya Bolden

This is an inspiring story about Grammy Award-winning artist Roberta Flack. The book tells of her childhood, growing up in a mountain town without fancy clothes or things. One day her father struck gold when he discovered a damaged upright piano in the junkyard. He worked hard to repair it and to present it to his daughter. This event would eventually lead her to become a legendary figure in the music industry.

22. Hats off to Mr. Pockles by Sally Lloyd-Jones

A spiffy dog wearing a blazer and a bowtie has multiple stylish hats stacked on top of his head on the book cover of "Hats off to Mr. Pockles!"
Hats off to Mr. Pockles! by Sally Lloyd-Jones

For Mr. Pockles, wearing a hat is as essential as putting on a pair of pants. He has a vast collection of hats suitable for every occasion, including eating his cornflakes, drinking tea, and even taking a bath. Despite his impressive hat collection, Mr. Pockles is lonely and lacks friends. One day, Lady CoCo Fitz-Tulip’s hat is devoured by hungry bunnies. Fortunately, Mr. Pockles knows precisely how to help.

23. The Spiffiest Giant in Town by Julia Donaldson

Animals stare up on the giant standing in town on the beloved book cover of "The Spiffiest Giant in town" by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, a book on the Best February Picture Books for Kids booklist.
The Spiffiest Giant in Town by Julia Donaldson

George, the giant decides to purchase himself a new outfit and is instantly transformed from the scruffiest giant to the spiffiest giant in town. On his way home, George helps animals who are in need. In the end, he must return to gather his old clothes and sandals for he has given it all away. CONTENT WARNING: image of a giant in underwear.

24. The Story Blanket by Ferida Wolff

A group of children sit attentively on a colorful patchwork quilt during storytime on the book cover of "The Story Blanket," a book on the Best February Picture Books for Kids booklist.
The Story Blanket by Ferida Wolff

In this endearing and beautifully illustrated story, a woman shares her imaginative tales and gifts – all from her treasured story blanket – with the children in her tiny snow-covered village. One day, Babba Zarrah notices that Nikolai needs new socks, but without any yarn, she must find a solution. After the children leave, she unravels part of her precious blanket to create a cozy pair of socks to keep him warm. As the villagers receive mysterious gifts, Babba’s blanket becomes smaller and smaller. When the community discovers her secret, they decide to surprise her with a gift of their own.

25. Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton

A mighty steam shovel smiles on the red book cover of "Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel," an old childrens book.
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton

Mary Anne, Mike’s faithful steam shovel, gets put out of work by the new fancy machines. However, Mike bets that Mary Anne can dig in one day as much as one hundred men can in a week. Their hard work and ingenuity are tested in the little town of Popperville.

26. Big Al by Andrew Clements

A large ugly brown fish swims down towards his new friends on the book cover of "Big Al" by Andrew Clements, a book on the best February picture books for kids booklist.
Big Al by Andrew Clements

Because of his scary looks and size, Big Al is lonely. The gentle giant intimidating appearance scares away the little fish. Despite his best efforts – from camouflaging himself with seaweed to hiding beneath the ocean floor – Big Al just can’t seem to make any friends. That is, until a dangerous situation arises, and Big Al has the chance to show just how loyal and caring he can be.

27. Like Me: A Story About Disability and Discovering God’s Image in Every Person by Laura Wifler

A little boy in a bright yellow hoodie walks with his posterior walker along a wintery nature trail with his friend walking behind him.
Like Me by Laura Wifler

This sweet book reinforces an important message that “God made you, God loves you, [and] God is kind to you.” We, parents, need to take the time to teach children that there are people with varying abilities. We must teach and show our children how to be helpful, empathic, and compassionate. This story follows a day of a child with a disability.

28. Madeline Finn and the Therapy Dog by Lisa Papp

A older unhappy gentle in a wheelchair looks away from a sweet girl and her two therapy dogs on the book cover of "Madeline Finn and the Therapy Dog."
Madeline Finn and the Therapy Dog by Lisa Papp

A young girl named Madeline Finn is training her dog Star to be a therapy dog. Star needs to pass her test at Walker Oaks, a retirement community. Star makes many new friends but Madeline Finn cannot figure out why the elderly man in a wheelchair never smiles. She and Star are determined to befriend him.

29. Corduroy by Don Freeman

A little brown stuffed bear wearing green corduroy overalls reaches down for his lost button a soft mattress on the red cover of the book "Corduroy."
Corduroy by Don Freeman

A little girl named Lisa falls in love with this cozy teddy bear dressed in green overalls. Corduroy notices he is missing a button and hunts for his button so that he looks his best when Lisa returns to the department store. His desire for a home is strong, and Lisa gives him a home and friendship.

30. The Three Bears retold by Paul Galdone

An image of three brown bears walk across the book cover of the retelling of the classic folktale by Paul Galdone.
The Three Bears retold by Paul Galdone

This is a retelling of the classic folktale “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” As the story of old, a young girl sneaks into the bear’s residence while they are out for a stroll.

Featured Children’s Treasury

31. The Complete Brambly Hedge by Jill Barklem

A well-dressed country mouse family gathered together in front of the front door of their home in the Brambly Hedge on the beloved children's treasury book cover.
The Complete Brambly Hedge by Jill Barklem

This beloved Children’s Treasury tells of the mice of Brambly Hedge. This treasury contains Spring Story, Summer Story, Autumn Story, Winter Story, Poppy’s Babies, Sea Story, The High Hills, and The Secret Staircase.

If the this treasury is not available at your local library, check out Winter Story.

Featured Board Book {BONUS Book Recommendation}

32. The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown

Two white bunnies, a mom and a baby bunny, stand in the tall grass on a clear sunny day on the book cover of "The Runaway Bunny."
The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown

The steadfast love and devotion of a mother are on display in this good book. A baby bunny imaginatively runs away from his mother. This book is a great way to reassure your little one that you will always be there for them no matter what.

Featured Crafts: Easy Valentine’s Day Crafts

Best Books for March: Picture Books for Kids {HERE}

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Interested in More Booklists for Kids: Check These Out!

Best Valentine’s Day Books for Preschool

Valentine books for preschool arranged in two rows on a red background with pink and red paper heart garland and bold decorative heart font reading best Valentine picture books for preschool.

Get the complete booklist for Valentine’s Day Picture Books HERE.

Picture Books About Perseverance

Childrens books about perseverance are displayed on a purple background with big, bold, and black text.

Get the complete list of favorite picture books about perseverance Here.

Best Picture Books about Compassion

Multiple different children's books about compassion for kids are arranged on a light blue background with bold black text and decorated blue and gray stars.

Get the complete booklist HERE.

More Booklists Coming Soon!

Thanks for Stopping By!

Lastly, thank you for stopping by! Please say Hi in the comment section and share your favorite book on the Best February Picture Books for kids booklist. This booklist was so fun to make. If you enjoyed this booklist, subscribe to my mailing list to receive each monthly picture booklist right in your inbox. Each booklist includes 31 wholesome picture books for kids and a free printable.

Please note this booklist does not encompass a comprehensive list of all the themes and holidays in February and is curated for ages 3-6 years old. I will continue to add more themed booklist. Read Aloud Revival has a picture book list for Black History Month and includes many of our favorite reads.

HAPPY READING!

– With Great Joy, Katie

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Best February picture books for kids aligned in two rows with white transparent text box and colorful font. Book covers feature children's classes and new releases on topics of kindness, compassion, diversity, love, and beautiful stories.

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