Books hold a special place in my heart and particular books have made an indelible impression on my life.

The books we read matter, and as we grow, each one changes our impression of ourselves and of the world around us.

But just because we grow older doesn’t mean we have to leave the powerful literature of childhood behind.

Quite the opposite, actually. 

While adult fiction novels can delight, inform and entertain grown-ups, children’s literature should have a special place in every adult reader’s life.

Especially picture books. 

Here are the ten picture books I think every adult should read. And, if you want to keep reading, you’ll find 90 other of my top children’s literature recommendations here. 

Apple & Magnolia by Laura Gehl

This picture book tells the story of the friendship between Apple and Magnolia, two trees in Britta’s yard that she’s sure are best friends, but need her help in re-building their unlikely friendship.

Every Little Kindness by Marta Bartolj

This wordless picture books takes readers on a powerful journey of kindness. One small act of kindness leads to another, ultimately returning back to the kind woman who started it all.

Ten Beautiful Things by Molly Beth Griffin

This beautiful book follows a little girl’s mission to find ten beautiful things on the way to her new home with her grandmother. She struggles, but comes to appreciate her new home and second chance.

Jump at the Sun by Alicia D. Williams

This book explores the life of Zora Neale Hurston, the unstoppable story-catcher. It celebrates the uniqueness each of us and how we can make the jump to keep growing in our own lives.

The Circles All Around Us by Brad Montague

The creator of Kid President brings us a sweet book about the circles we draw for ourselves and the power of expanding them to make our lives, and the world, better.

Thank you, Omu! by Oge Mora

This beautifully illustrated book has a beautiful lesson of taking care of yourself and others. It’s artful design will pull you in and the important message will make you think.

My Papi Has a Motorcycle by Isabel Quintero

This touching book acts as a love letter from an adoring daughter to her hard-working father as they celebrate their changing neighborhood.

Drawn Together by Minh Le

This almost wordless picture book easily captures the heart of the reader as we observe the changing relationships between grandfather and grandson bonding over the universal language of art and love.

Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwell

This heartwarming story features Jabari and his father’s trip to the community pool. You’ll root for Jabari as he tackles his fears and celebrate his father’s coaching on the side.

Watercress by Andrea Wang

This is a stunning story of learning how something initially frustrating and heartbreaking might be the very thing that ultimately brings us closer together as we seek to understand.

What picture books do you think every adult should read? Share your titles in the comments below!