9 Meaningful Picture Books for Adults

Picture books aren’t just for children, exceptional picture books for adults also exist. They’re visually appealing yet have meaningful lessons inside. There are countless times I’ve read picture books to children and ended up learning something new.

Many adult readers are finding children’s books to be beneficial. It sparks a sense of creativity that can’t be found in novels and brings back childhood memories.

They’re easy to read, and can be finished in one sitting. It’s a great gift for any occasion and you can’t go wrong. Listed below are 9 Meaningful Picture Books for Adults that have impacted me in a positive light and reminded me of several important life lessons.

9 Meaningful Picture Books For Adults

1. Today I’m Strong – Nadiya Hussain

2. My Big, Dumb, Invisible Dragon – Angie Lucas

3. Oh, the Places You’ll Go – Dr. Seuss

4. The Giving Tree – Shel Silverstein

5. Zen Shorts – Jon J. Muth

6. Cry Heart, But Never Break – Glenn Ringtved

7. The Lorax – Dr. Seuss

8. A Sick Day For Amos Mcgee – Philip C. Stead

9. Home – Carson Ellis

Today I'm Strong: A story about finding your inner strength Hardcover – 27 October 2020

Today I’m Strong by Nadiya Hussain

Written by the British Bake Off winner and amazing author Nadiya Hussain. “Today I’m Strong” goes over the story of a little girl who loves to go to school. However, some days she doesn’t feel like going because other children are sometimes mean. But she can always tell her friend the tiger anything she wants when she’s home.

My Big, Dumb, Invisible Dragon by Angie Lucus

My Big, Dumb, Invisible Dragon is a story that tackles the loss of a family member. It’s a sensitive topic that’s made light, funny and still meaningful. A young boy experiences the devastating loss of his mother and how he manages to cope and grief. It’s a great read for anyone who has experienced any loss in their life and shows you another perspective.

My Big, Dumb, Invisible Dragon Hardcover – Picture Book, 1 August 2019

Oh, The Places You'll Go! [30th Anniversary Edition] Paperback – Special Edition, 20 April 2020

Oh, the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss

“You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes, you can steer yourself in any direction you choose.” This book takes a boy on a journey into a bizarre and unfamiliar place and teaches us to take risks, try new things and be comfortable with the uncomfortable.

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

The Giving Tree explores the concept of unconditional love in a way that’s easy to understand and portrayed elegantly. A boy encounters and befriends a tree that wants to provide him with anything and everything he needs. The boy grows older and has higher desires and keeps wanting more, whilst the tree is happy to give anything he desires.

The Giving Tree Hardcover – Picture Book, 1 October 2003

Zen Shorts Hardcover – Picture Book, 1 June 2008

Zen Shorts by Jon J. Muth

Zen Shorts by Jon J. Muth is not just a picture book. It’s a book filled with wisdom and life lessons. A panda called Stillwater befriends three boys named Addy, Michael, and Karl. Each one has their own set of problems and visits Stillwater for advice. The panda explains through stories which helps the children deal with their emotions and problems.

Cry Heart, But Never Break by Glenn Ringtved

Cry Heart, But Never Break explores a sensitive topic that Glenn Ringtved experienced in his own life. The story revolves around the theme of death and the emotions that come with it. It follows the story of 4 siblings who encounter the death of their grandmother. It sends a powerful message of appreciating the time and beauty of your loved ones.

Cry, Heart, But Never Break Hardcover – Picture Book, 2 May 2016

The Lorax [Yellow Back Book Edition]: The classic story that shows you how to save the planet! Paperback – Picture Book, 20 February 2017

The Lorax by Dr. Seuss

Another classic by Dr Seuss is known as “The Lorax”. The story is set in a mystical land with truffula trees. These trees are cut down and used for monetary gains by the Once-ler. The Lorax is the mystical creature that stands up and warns them of the environmental dangers. It’s a book that conveys a strong message about environmental sustainability and conservation.

A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead

A Sick Day for Amos McGee follows the story of a kind-hearted zookeeper who forms real connections with all the animals at his zoo. He spends quality time playing games, reading stories and being genuine. One day, he is unwell and unable to visit the animals and on that particular day, his kindness is reported as all the animals visit him.

A Sick Day for Amos McGee Board book – Illustrated, 2 January 2018

Home by Carson Ellis

“Home” by Carson Ellis is a picture book that explores the concept of home in various forms. The book showcases a variety of homes ranging from simple to elaborate and belonging to people, animals, and even creatures. It represents the connection to home and emphasizes the personal and emotional connections to your home.

The Bottom Line

Next time you see a picture book that interests you, don’t be afraid to give it a read. They’re insightful, creative and meaningful. They add a brand new flavour into your life.