Sometimes the best way to inspire conversation is to take the words away. Wordless picture books are an excellent way to allow children to make their own interpretations. They encourage children to converse about what they see while keeping an open mind. Below are some of my favorite wordless picture books for all ages. Happy reading!
That Neighbor Kid by Daniel Miyares
A new boy moves in next door and the neighbor girl can’t help but be curious. This book captures a new friendship forming. The pictures are black and white, but color begins to slowly form along with the friendship. This is a beautiful lead in for conversations on friendship while also showcasing ways in which authors use color to portray emotions.
The Monkey Goes Bananas by C.P. Bloom
This book is one of my all time favorites!!!! It is not completely wordless, but has just enough words to help readers know where to draw their attention. This book will make all children laugh. The Monkey Goes Bananas is the perfect book to help young children learn to infer. They will be begging to read The Monkey and the Bee, so do yourself a favor and buy them both!
Float by Daniel Miyares
Follow along on this journey as a young boy builds a paper boat and takes it on an adventure. The illustrations are shown from different angles which lends itself to conversation about perspective. The illustrations are also great for discussion about feelings and facial expressions. This is a beautiful book for boys or girls!
Unspoken by Henry Cole
This beautifully illustrated story portrays many unspoken stories from the underground railroad. This little farm girl sees an eye peeking from the corn field. She silently cares for the unseen slave. You can see the turmoil in her eyes as she decides to keep the secret to herself. This story is perfect for older children (I’d recommend 8 and older).
Wave by Suzy Lee
This book is absolutely adorable! Watch as a young girl experiences a day at the beach. She starts off hesitant of the waves and then gains the courage to dip in a toe. Follow along and feel her hesitation turn to excitement. This book would be great for talking about overcoming your fears.
Chalk by Bill Thomson
This book is so fun! It follows three friends who discover a bag of magic sidewalk chalk. Every picture they draw comes to life. Such a beautiful example of imagination. Another excellent book for teaching facial expressions and problem solving.
Journey by Aaron Becker
This beautiful book follows a lonely girl who draws a door on her bedroom wall. She escapes to another world full of life and adventure. With her magic red pen in tow, she creates everything she needs while on her journey. This book is the first in a trilogy, so be sure to check out Quest and Return to view the rest of the story.
Flashlight by Lizi Boyd
Have you ever had a backyard camp out? It’s cozy and warm in the tent, but don’t you wonder what is happening outside in the dark? Follow along as this little boy uses his flashlight to explore the dark. The flashlight illuminates whatever is in it’s path and is shown in color while the remaining picture is in dark tones. This book will encourage bravery and adventure.
I Walk with Vanessa by Kerascoet
This story deserves all the likes and heart emojis. Vanessa is new to her class and a bully immediately targets her. A sweet girl feels bad and stands up for her. Watch as the students ban together in her defense. The perfect story to discuss friendship, bullying, and kindness.