My Favorite Children’s Books of 2021

I couldn’t let 2021 end without a round-up of my Favorite Children’s Books. 2021 was my biggest year in terms of children’s books. I never intended to be a children’s book blogger, but as I slowly began sharing some of our family’s favorite children’s books or books I read from for our library’s storytime, I slowly began receiving children’s books from authors and publishers.

Now, I have a hard time working in the children’s books along with my regular bookish content, but it is such a blessing. I love sharing these picture books, board books, and nonfiction books with you and the kids at school. They are always so excited to see which books I brought along in my special book bag.

This year I shared 117 children’s books with you and of those, I’m choosing sixteen books that stood out to me as favorites including eight fiction and eight nonfiction books.

I want to take this space to thank the publishers and publicists that so graciously send me books all year long. It’s nearly like Christmas every week as a new package of books arrives on my doorstep. I am humbled that they trust me to share about their books and spread the word. Some of the books I keep for my own library or school bag. But, the rest I gift to family members or to our local library or school library. It truly is a privilege and I don’t take it lightly.

The photo of the book will take you to the Amazon page. If you choose to make a purchase I may receive a small commission. The book title will take you to my review of that book.

My Favorite Children’s Fiction Books of 2021

THE LONGEST LETSGOBOY by Derick Wilder

A sweet story of a child and his loyal companion saying one last goodbye.

FARM LULLABY by Karen Jameson

You know I am a sucker for bedtime stories and farm stories. When they are together, it’s almost always a win for me.

BETWEEN THE LINES by Lindsay Ward

I think Lindsay Ward has made my list of favorite books every year. She is wildly talented and I’ve loved every single one of her books. But the real barometer is the kids at school love them too.

BEFORE WE SLEEP by Giorgio Volpe

Another beautiful bedtime story, but this time, it’s forest animal friends preparing for a night of long winter sleep, even though one of these wants to stay awake and play. Gorgeous illustrations.

NIA AND THE NEW LIBRARY by Ian Lendler

Oh my gosh, a story with a young girl trying to save her local library after a tornado? I’m in 100%.

THE MIDDLE KID by Steven Weinberg

This story was so spot on and hilarious. I wish we had owned this book when our middle child was growing up. It would have been perfect for him. I still made him read it at the age of 20.

JULIUS AND MACY: A Very Brave Night by Annelouise Mahoney

A fun adventure story that leads to a kind and beautiful friendship.

A SMALL KINDNESS by Stacy McAnulty

I loved McAnulty’s previous books, LOVE and MR FUZZBUSTER KNOWS HE’S THE FAVORITE. This chain of kindness warmed my heart. I love watching younger kids realize what is happening in the illustrations. It is a must-own.

My Favorite Children’s Non-Fiction Books of 2021

WHO IS A SCIENTIST? by Laura Gehl

This one shares how science can be fun, approachable, and realistic in a way that kids will be like, “Hey, I could do that.” Make science fun and kids will check it out.

THE WEATHER POP UP BOOK by Maike Biederstaedt

I love pop-up books and this one is definitely cool. The pop-ups will get the kids’ attention and then make them want to learn about the various types of weather events.

CIRCLE UNDER BERRY by Carter Higgens

Even the littlest kids are learning while you read to them. This board book encompasses colors, shapes, and places in a way that kids won’t even realize they are learning. Under, over, left, right, top, bottom, etc are all concepts that kids will pick up quickly.

THE ELEPHANTS COME HOME by Kim Tomsic

If I could have a very favorite children’s book, I think this would be it. Even though it is a bit more advanced for a picture book, this story of elephants coming together to honor a beloved friend is just so beautiful. I just loved this one so much, I cried.

WHOSE BABY IS THIS? by Stephanie Babin

Another board book that encourages learning for our youngest readers. Toddlers love interactive books and the sliders on the pages reveal the baby to the momma as well as sharing their name. Kids will love moving the slide and seeing the adorable baby animals.

LET’S POP POP POPCORN by Cynthia Schumerth

When I can learn something from a children’s book, I think that is pretty cool. This book teaches how to grow your own popcorn, the science behind the popping of the kernels, and makes the whole process fun. There is also a neat experiment and craft at the end.

THE COOLEST STUFF ON EARTH by Brenda Scott Royce

I had to include a couple of National Geographic Kids books on this list. These are the books I loved as a kid and can’t believe I now get to review them. They are always favorites and the first ones chosen by kids from my bookbag. This compilation of cool stuff is, well, cool!

THE ULTIMATE BOOK OF AFRICAN ANIMALS by Dereck and Beverly Joubert

I love the story of the authors and their dedication to caring for and protecting animals in Botswana. This is the most comprehensive book on African animals I’ve ever seen and the photography is so amazing. The reading isn’t overwhelming for kids, offering just enough information to keep them interested and turning the pages.

Did you have a favorite children’s book from 2021? If so, share it below!