Picture Books to Read in Winter: A Collection of Story Ideas That Resonate with Elementary School Children
With the arrival of winter, you may find yourself wanting to discover wonderful picture books to enjoy with your children.
Here are winter-themed picture books that will resonate with elementary schoolers—the crisp winter air, the sparkle of snowflakes, and the warmth of family togetherness.
From richly illustrated scenes to stories that kindle a spirit of adventure, the cold season holds the promise of unforgettable reads.
How about spending a special moment immersed in these stories together with your child?
- [Elementary School] Picture Books and Children’s Books to Read in February
- Perfect for the reading season of autumn! Recommended picture books that will captivate elementary school children
- Picture books perfect for spring that are recommended for elementary school children. Picture books that make them look forward to going to elementary school.
- [Winter Haiku] A collection of poems written by elementary school students. Excellent works that skillfully use seasonal words.
- A collection of heartwarming quotes for the winter season | Gem-like words that resonate with the heart
- [Winter Haiku] A collection of poems composed by junior high school students: a beautiful and amusing anthology that vividly evokes scenes
- Fun winter activities: Recreations that children can enjoy
- Fun snow play ideas that captivate both kids and adults!
- [For Kids] Indoor Games and Activities Recommended for Winter Break
- [Indoor Activities] A Collection of Craft Ideas Recommended for Elementary School Students
- Origami ideas for December! Easy Christmas and winter crafts to make with kids
- [For Elementary Students] A Collection of Beautiful Four-Character Idioms to Know
- Recommended for elementary school class goals! A collection of impactful ideas using four-character idioms
Picture Books to Read in Winter: A Collection of Story Ideas That Resonate with Elementary School Children (1–10)
Light of the Stars
On Christmas night, the Star King sees a village with no lights and decides to bring starlight down to the earth.
As the gently glowing star children descend one by one, the smallest star child hesitates, thinking, “My light is too weak…” But when that little star, despite trembling, musters the courage to come down, a gentle glow blooms across the dark village.
A memorable tale where a small act of courage brings great warmth.
With tender words and cozy illustrations, it offers a comforting time for the heart.
A perfect book for telling children, “Your own light matters, too.” Filled with hope and kindness, it also makes a lovely gift picture book.
The Mysterious Power of Saint Nicholas
Saint Nicholas, known as the model for Santa Claus, was a real bishop who carried out charitable works in the 4th century in what is now Turkey.
This picture book explains the relationship between Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus from a historical perspective.
Everyone probably has the image of Santa bringing presents at Christmas, but some children might wonder, “Who is Santa Claus?” Perhaps the answer can be found within this picture book.
Connected by a red thread
This is a story about Annie the badger and Tickle the porcupine, who care for each other and sometimes quarrel.
They each find a strand of red yarn and start knitting for the other.
But the yarn is actually connected, and just as their creations are nearly finished, everything unravels.
The two start to argue…
They only wanted to see each other’s happy faces, so it’s sad when a small misunderstanding leads to a fight, isn’t it? Still, they make up properly and become close again.
Children often quarrel, too, but rather than letting that be the end of it, it would be wonderful if they, like these two, could come to cherish each other again.
Picture Books to Read in Winter: A Collection of Story Ideas That Resonate with Elementary School Children (11–20)
The Great Adventure of Sorachi Village: Milton’s Big Jump
Set in the snowbound town of Mirtle, the hero of this story is a dog named Hiro.
What was built in Mirtle was a handmade jump ramp.
Hiro is going to take on that ramp, which sways when the wind blows.
What kind of jump will Hiro show us? We don’t often see jump ramps, but just imagining Hiro taking the leap is exciting, isn’t it? This picture book might even spark some children’s interest in winter sports.
Elephant’s Letter
The protagonist of this story is a young elephant living in a zoo.
One day, he receives a letter from a human boy and has the zookeeper read it to him.
He wants to write a letter back, but he can’t write.
So, to send a reply to the boy, he begins practicing his letters.
The excitement of waiting for a letter and his determination to put his feelings into words will surely make children want to write letters too.
It’s a charming and lovely book that also teaches the importance of effort and the value of not giving up.
The Lonely Fir Tree
This is a story about a lonely fir tree that has a wonderful encounter on Christmas Eve.
At Christmas, everyone spends time with family and friends.
But the fir tree, the story’s protagonist, was gazing down alone at the glittering city streets.
As it was about to drift into winter sleep, feeling lonely, that indispensable someone for Christmas comes along.
So, who could it be…? Reading this picture book makes you hope that Christmas will be warm and special for everyone.
The Tailor of Gloucester
The story of mice repaying a kindness, “The Tailor of Gloucester.” In the town of Gloucester lived a tailor.
One day as Christmas drew near, he fell ill with a high fever even though he had an important job to finish.
That’s when the mice appear.
Grateful to the man, the mice take needle and thread in their tiny hands and sew the garments in his place.
The delicately rendered illustrations and heartfelt tale warm the soul.
It’s a truly lovely work that celebrates the desire to help others and the kindness that inspires it.