- Updated on January 15, 2026
Explore a selection of our favourite winter picture books to add to your family’s reading library and keep little ones entertained during the colder months. This handpicked list features children’s books that capture the magic of winter, from snowmen and falling snowflakes to hibernating animals and quiet, snowy nights. These stories offer a fun and gentle way for kids to learn about the seasonal changes that come with winter.
So snuggle up by the fireplace, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and enjoy reading some of our favourite winter-themed children’s books together.
Do you have a favourite winter kids’ book we may have missed? Share it in the comments below!
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Our Favourite Kids Books About Winter
1. Ten Ways to Hear Snow
by Cathy Camper (Author), Kenard Pak (Illustrator)
A snowy day, a trip to Grandma’s, time spent cooking with one another, and space to pause and discover the world around you come together in this perfect book for reading and sharing on a cozy winter day.
Available in Hardback.
2. Dream Snow
by Eric Carle
Available in Hardcover, and Boardbook.
3. Little Red Sleigh
by Erin Guendelsberger (Author), Elizaveta Tretyakova (Illustrator)
Little Red Sleigh is a bestselling holiday story about believing in yourself and dreaming big. Full of winter charm and festive magic, this heartwarming book is one families will enjoy reading together year after year.
Available in Paperback.
4. Winter Sleep: A Hibernation Story
by Sean Taylor & Alex Morss (Authors), Cinyee Chiu (Illustrator)
Available in Hardcover, and Paperback.
5. The Snowy Day
Ezra Jack Keats (Author)
The Snowy Day is a classic, Caldecott Medal–winning picture book that captures the quiet magic of a child’s first snowfall. With bold, collage-style illustrations and simple storytelling, it follows Peter through small winter adventures that celebrate curiosity, wonder, and the joy of snowy days — perfect for cozy reading together.
Available in Hardcover and Paperback.
6. The Story of Snow: The Science of Winter's Wonder
by Mark Cassino (Author)
The Story of Snow explores the science behind snowflakes, from how snow crystals form to the many shapes they can take. Featuring stunning photographs of real snow crystals, this beautifully presented nonfiction book inspires curiosity and wonder on winter days.
Available in Hardcover and Paperback.
7. Snow
by P.D. Eastman (Author)
Snow is a classic, easy-to-read celebration of snowy-day fun. From snowball fights to snowman-making, this beloved Beginner Book captures the excitement of winter and is perfect for early readers just starting out.
Available in Hardcover and Paperback.
8. Poppleton in Winter
by Cynthia Rylant (Author), Mark Teague (Illustrator)
Follow Poppleton the pig through a series of cozy winter adventures, from growing an icicle garden to puzzling over friendships and surprise celebrations. Told in short, gentle chapters with simple language and charming illustrations, this warm and whimsical book is perfect for beginning readers ready to enjoy their first chapter stories independently.
Available in Paperback.
9. Winter Survival: Animal Hibernation, Migration, and Adaptation
by L.R. Hanson (Author)
Winter is approaching, and the animals are busy preparing to survive the cold weather. The birds are flying south, the squirrels are busy gathering food, and the rabbit’s fur is turning white. Why are some animals preparing for winter so differently? Whether to avoid extreme weather, conserve energy, or survive on sparse resources, animals survive in some clever ways!Available in Paperback.
10. The Little Snowplow
by Lora Koehler (Author), Jake Parker (Illustrator)
The Little Snowplow is a #1 New York Times bestseller about a small but determined snowplow who proves he’s ready for big storms. A classic underdog story about perseverance and confidence, it’s a winter favourite that kids will happily return to again and again.
Available in Hardcover, Paperback & Boardbook.
11. So Much Snow!
by Robert Munsch (Author), Michael Martchenko (Illustrator)
Snow Much Snow is a classic, laugh-out-loud winter story about determination, snow days, and one very determined kid who just wants to make it to school. Packed with Robert Munsch’s trademark humour and exaggeration, it’s a fun read-aloud for snowy afternoons.
Available in Hardcover & Paperback.
12. The Snowman
by Raymond Briggs (Author)
The Snowman is a beloved, wordless winter classic that tells a magical story entirely through illustrations. Gentle, nostalgic, and full of wonder, it captures the innocence of childhood and the quiet magic of a snowy night — a beautiful book to linger over together.
Available in Boardbook.
13. The Biggest Snowman Ever
by Steven Kroll (Author), Jeni Bassett (Illustrator)
A fun winter story about teamwork and friendship, as two determined mice discover that working together is the best way to build something truly great. With a snowy setting and an uplifting message, it’s a charming read for winter storytime.
Available in Paperback.
14. Over and Under the Snow
by Kate Messner (Author), Christopher Silas Neal (Illustrator)
Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow is a secret world of squirrels and snowshoe hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals who live through the winter, safe and warm. Over and Under in the Snow takes readers on a cross country ski trip through the winter woods to discover the secret world of animals living under the snow.
Available in Hardcover and Paperback.
15. Sneezy the Snowman
by Maureen Wright (Author), Stephen Gilpin (Illustrator)
Sneezy the Snowman is a silly winter story about a snowman who’s too cold and keeps trying to warm up — with hilarious results. Full of playful repetition and humour, this lighthearted read is a hit for younger kids and makes a great read-aloud on snowy days.
Available in Hardcover and Paperback.
16. The Three Snow Bears
by Jan Brett (Author, Illustrator)
The Three Snow Bears is a beautifully illustrated Arctic retelling of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Set in a snowy northern landscape, this winter story combines adventure, warmth, and classic fairy-tale familiarity — a lovely seasonal read for young children.
Available in Hardcover and Paperback.
17. Snowmen at Night
by Caralyn Buehner (Author), Mark Buehner (Illustrator)
Snowmen at Night playfully explores what snowmen might get up to after dark. With rhyming text and lively illustrations, this winter favourite sparks imagination and adds a fun, whimsical twist to snowy-day reading.
Available in Hardcover and Paperback.
18. Deep Snow
by Robert Munsch (Author), Michael Martchenko (Illustrator)
Deep Snow is a classic, laugh-out-loud winter story about curiosity, consequences, and very, very deep snow. Full of Robert Munsch’s signature humour and exaggeration, it’s a fun read-aloud that kids will want to hear again and again during snowy season.
Available in Paperback and Boardbook.
19. The Very Sleepy Bear
by Nick Bland (Author, Illustrator)
A very sneaky Fox and a very sleepy Bear set off to explore other places for Bear to call home. The train tunnel is too loud, even if the double doors are nice. The hollow tree’s high ceilings are great, but the bats are not. The oceanfront option has great views ― great, but damp. Could it be that sleepy Bear’s own cozy cave is the perfect home after all?
Available in Hardcover, Paperback and Boardbook.
20. Wolf in the Snow
by Matthew Cordell (Author)
Wolf in the Snow is a beautifully told, nearly wordless winter story about kindness, resilience, and unlikely friendship. Winner of the 2018 Caldecott Medal, this powerful picture book uses expressive illustrations to draw readers into a snowy landscape where compassion and perseverance shine through — a memorable and moving winter read for all ages.
Available in Hardcover & Paperback.
21. It’s Winter
by Renée Kurilla (Author & Illustrator)
Pull out your warmest coat, mittens, and scarf! It’s time for sledding, skating, and snowmen! And don’t forget the hot chocolate, decorations, and special time with family and friends—it’s winter! From Hanukkah and Kwanzaa to Christmas and Valentine’s Day, get in the spirit of the season with this joyful rhyming follow-up to It’s Fall! from a New York Times bestselling creator.
Available in Hardcover.
22. Owl Moon
by Jane Yolen (Author), and John Schoenherr (illustrator)
Owl Moon is a quiet, poetic winter story about a child and her father sharing a magical nighttime walk through the woods. With gentle language and a peaceful winter setting, it’s a lovely read for slowing down and enjoying a cozy moment together.
Available in Hardcover & Paperback.
23. Snow Birds: A Picture Book
by Kirsten Hall (Author), Jenni Desmond (Illustrator)
Introduce kids to birds who survive winter against all odds in award-winning creators Kirsten Hall and Jenni Desmond’s poetic, gorgeously illustrated picture book.
Available in Hardcover.
24. Animals in Winter
by Henrietta Bancroft (Author), Richard G. Van Gelder (Author), Helen K. Davie (Illustrator)
Read and find out about how animals cope with winter in this colourful illustrated picture book. A Level 1 Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out book. These books explore introductory concepts perfect for children in the primary grades.Â
Available in Hardcover.
25. The Snow Thief
by Alice Hemming (Author) & Nicole Slater (Illustrator).
The next picture book from the mega-talented creative duo that brought us New York Times bestseller, The Leaf Thief. With beautiful illustraitons and a fun and comical story – kids will soon choose this a bedtime favourite!
Available in Hardcover and Paperback editions.
26. The Snow Knows
by Jennifer McGrath (Author) & Josée Bisaillon (Illustrator)
The Snow Knows is a gentle, wintery picture book that invites children to slow down and notice the quiet magic of snowy days. This 2017 Marilyn Baillie Award–winning book for best Canadian children’s picture book encourages curiosity, observation, and a sense of wonder — making it a lovely choice for cozy winter reading.
Available in Paperback edition.
27. How to Catch a Snowman
by Adam Wallace (Author), & Andy Elkerton (Illustrator)
A playful winter picture book that follows kids as they dream up clever plans to catch an elusive snowman. With rhyming text and lively illustrations, it’s a fun, lighthearted read that adds a bit of humour and imagination to winter storytime.
Available in Hardcover and Paperback editions.
28. Winter Dance
by Marion Dane Bauer (Author) & Richard Jones (Illustrator)
Winter Dance is a gentle, poetic winter story that follows a fox and other woodland animals as they prepare for the cold season ahead. With soft, expressive illustrations and a calm, rhythmic feel, this beautifully told book offers a quiet look at nature and winter survival — perfect for slower, cozy reading.
Available in Hardcover and Boardbook editions.
