[February] Recommended picture books for 2-year-olds: Books that evoke winter and Setsubun

Last updated:2025/11/7

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Started performing in bands in junior high school. Influenced by Japanese rock and UK rock, spent over 10 years continuing band activities while creating original songs. Later began producing Vocaloid tracks using Hatsune Miku, with total plays of released songs surpassing 10,000. Has five years of experience writing for music magazines. Currently works as a music writer, director, and composer, keeping a ground-level perspective on the scene by attending live shows across Japan. Now performs at live houses in Tokyo, showcasing guitar playing centered on acoustic guitar and informed by knowledge of chord analysis and guitar scales. Also writes leveraging a broad knowledge of music genres.

Two-year-olds, who are starting to learn conversation and speak words through play and daily life, can make all sorts of discoveries by reading picture books.

Some of you may be looking for perfect read-aloud books for children with a February theme, when winter’s chill is at its peak.

In this article, we’ve put together recommended picture books for two-year-olds for the month of February.

We’ll introduce a wide range—from unique picture books that kids can enjoy by imitating characters’ facial expressions to stories that warm the heart.

Be sure to try these works that let you feel the winter season indoors together with your children.

[February] Recommended picture books for 2-year-olds: Books that evoke winter and Setsubun (1–10)

Secret TrainText by Kumiko Kaoru / Illustrations by Yoko Kato

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The fantastical picture book Naisho Densha spun by Kumiko Kaoru shines with the fusion of illustrator Yoko Katou’s warm artwork.

Published in 2012, this book depicts the adventure of a railway and its stationmaster as they head into winter break, greatly stimulating children’s imaginations.

With each page turn, the “secret station” and “secret mountain” deliver thrills and fun like riding a roller coaster.

For two-year-olds just beginning to learn language, it’s a perfect chance to experience the magic of words!

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Wanpaku-dan’s Snow FestivalWritten by: Yoshi Ueno / Illustrated by: Shigeki Suezaki

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Wanpakudan no Yukimatsuri (The Mischief Gang’s Snow Festival) is a picture book packed with the joys of winter.

Yoshishi Ueno’s gentle words, together with Shigeki Suezaki’s warm illustrations, let children fully savor a winter adventure.

Through building a snow hut and encountering a snow rabbit, this lovely story teaches the wonders of the season and the beginnings of new friendships.

It’s the perfect book for enjoying the atmosphere of winter and Setsubun.

Why not spend some heartwarming read-aloud time with your child, even in the cold season?

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A Snowy Day BirthdayChihiro Iwasaki

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Chihiro Iwasaki’s “Yuki no Hi no Tanjoubi” (A Birthday on a Snowy Day) is a perfect picture book for reading aloud to two-year-olds.

In February, as winter deepens, the gentle story weaves together quiet, snowy scenes and little Chi-chan’s small wish.

Children will be drawn to the characters’ natural expressions and feel the closeness of winter’s arrival.

Please enjoy a heartwarming time together.

This charming tale just might have a magical power to deepen your bond with your child.

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YukiKoshiro Hata

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Koshirou Hata’s picture book “Yuki” is a wonderful volume that portrays the beauty of winter.

The characters, drawn in his distinctive style, are full of expression and captivate children amid snow-covered scenes.

As a picture book to read in February, it lets you enjoy the winter season with children and share the fun of humming songs together as a family.

Through the warm illustrations and story, feel the warmth and happiness that fill even the coldest days.

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Who is this snowman?Text: Eriko Kishida / Illustrations: Yuriko Yamawaki

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“Who Made This Snowman?” is a picture book perfect for two-year-olds.

Through the adventures of animals who know how to enjoy winter, children will grow fond of snowmen.

With its rhythmic language, kids can join in the fun, making read-aloud time even more special.

By addressing children as you turn each page, you can help them enjoy the story even more.

Crafted by Eriko Kishida and Yuriko Yamawaki, this tale—just right for the Setsubun season—offers a heartwarming moment even in the chill of winter.

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Abuku-tattaShinobu Saito

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Evoking the charm of winter, Abukutatta is a heartwarming picture book by Shinobu Saito.

Even in the cold season, reading it together as a parent and child can convey the fun of Setsubun.

The book is sprinkled with traditional children’s songs, and its friendly illustrations capture kids’ interest.

Reading along with the poem’s rhythm can also help nurture a sense of rhythm.

Why not incorporate Saito’s gentle picture book into your shared time with your child? Those storytime moments are sure to become heartwarming memories.

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Puff puff—boo!Written by Hiroyuki Aihara / Illustrated by Mami Suzuki

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“Appuppu no Puu,” a book perfect for reading to two-year-olds, features lively ogres who won’t be beaten by the winter cold and are sure to bring warm smiles.

Hiroyuki Aihara’s gentle words and Mami Suzuki’s colorful, lovable illustrations make it a picture book that sparks children’s imaginations.

The Setsubun story helps gently introduce Japan’s traditional culture to children.

Imitating the ogres’ expressions can also be a fun game that brings parents and children closer.

Highly recommended both for reading at home and for teachers to share with children in the classroom!

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