50+ picture books that have matching Yoto cards (so you can follow along while you listen!)
A few weeks ago, I shared a list of chapter books that have Yoto cards to go along with them (if you missed that post, it’s right here!)
Well, we couldn’t do that post and not have a picture version too!
These picture books all have corresponding Yoto cards so you can follow along and see the illustrations while you listen to the Yoto card (this is one of my kids’ favorite things to do!).
PICTURE BOOKS PERFECT TO READ ALONG WITH YOUR YOTO
Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site by Sherri Duskey Rinker // Picture book here
Who knew bedtime rhymes and cement mixers, bulldozers, and excavators would mix so well? Each of the vehicles settles in to rest at the construction site after a busy day. Plus, there are more books in this series so if your child is a fan, you’ve got more up your sleeve!
Django: World’s Greatest Jazz Guitarist by Bonnie Christensen // Picture book here
Django was born into a gypsy traveling family and taught himself the guitar at a young age. Known for being a prodigy on the instrument, Django and everyone he knew thought he was going places. That was until an unfortunate fire damaged his fretting hand.
Bright Star by Yuyi Morales // Picture book here
This picture book would be a perfect read along option. Because of the sparse language, following along with the beautiful picture as the fawn ventures through the world.
I Am Golden by Eva Chen // Picture book here
A story of a immigrant child and what she sees when she looks in the mirror. This focuses on Chinese American children, but would be a great fit for any child.
When I Grow Up & My New Teacher and Me by Al Yankovi // Picture book here
This book is full of imagination, wit, wordplay and a bunch of silliness. Each kid in Billy’s class gets to tell everyone what they want to be when they grow up and when it’s Billy’s turn he tells them every single career he would like to pursue!
28 Days by Charles R. Smith Jr. // Picture book here
Each day features a different African American individual that made a huge impact. This would be a perfect advent read/listen during Black History Month!
Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts // Picture book here
All Jeremy wants is the shoes everyone else at school has. Unfortunately his grandma tells him they can only get things they need. When Jeremy’s shoes fall apart at school he is thrilled when he finds a pair of “those shoes” at the thrift store even though they are too small. He soon discovers having shoes that fit, a friend to help and a family who loves him is more important than “those shoes.”
All Because You Matter my Tami Charles // Picture book here
This book has won so many awards and for good reason. The message of every individual mattering, is one that should be spread wide and far!
In My Neighborhood by Oscar Laurbriel // Picture book here
The main character in this book is a drum and all the drum wants is to me able to carry a melody. He soon realizes that just because he can’t carry a melody doesn’t mean he isn’t a crucial part in a band!
Overground Railroad by Lesa Cline-Ransome // Picture book here
Are you familiar with the Great Migration? (If not, The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration is a fantastic book on this topic for grown-ups – my book club read it years ago and it was superb). This book introduces the topic in picture book form with poetry. This is the Rope is also a great book about the Great Migration.
Coming to England by Floella Benjamin // Picture book here
Ten year old, Baroness Floella Benjamin and he sibilings are sailing from Trinidad to England to be reunited with their family. When England is cold in more ways than one, Floella isn’t sure she is excited about the move anymore.
Imani’s Moon by JaNay Brown-Wood // Picture book here
Imani is little. The littlest in her village and everyone makes sure she knows it. As it starts to deflate her confidence, her mama tells her a story about the moon goddess and a spider who accomplish the impossible. This opens Imani’s eyes to imagine the impossible for herself!
A Different Pond by Bao Phi // Picture book here
This was a 2018 Caldecott Honor book, and even though it is audio, the story itself is so sweet! Bao Phi really turns something as simple as fishing, into beautiful and eye-opening poetry about family and culture – I loved this book!
My Papi Has Motorcycle by Isabel Qunitero // Picture book here
This was one of my FAVORITE picture books published in 2019 about a little girl and her father going for a motorcycle ride around their neighborhood in Corona, California. This book is so engrossing, making me feel like I’m right there on the motorcycle ride with them.
Fauja Singh Keeps Going by Simran Jeet Singh // Picture book here
This true story is an incredible example of true grit and determination. Fauja Singh is the first and only 100 year old person to be able to run a marathon! Such an inspiring story!
Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o // Picture book here
Sulwe wishes her skin wasn’t so dark but when her mother tells her a story about the day and the night and the brightness that comes from both, Sulwe realizes that she’s beautiful just the way she is.
We Are Grateful by Traci Sorell // Picture book here
This gorgeous book, which garnered an impressive list of awards when it came out last year, focuses on the word “otsaliheliga” which is a Cherokee word that means gratitude and how the Cherokee Nation celebrates a year, starting in the fall when a new year begins. I love this one around Thanksgiving when talking about gratitude.
Alma by Juana Martinez-Neal // Picture book here
Alma has six names which seems like WAY too many for a little girl. But when her father patiently explains where each of her six names come from, she realizes six names might not be so bad after all. (This one snagged a Caldecott Honor!)
Yuyi Morales Collection by Yuyi Morales // Picture book here
Tune into this collection of Dreamers, Nino Wrestles the World and Viva Frida – all stories of people pushing through adversity and coming out on top!
Zonia’s Rainforest by Juana Martinez-Neal // Picture book here
Zonia not only lives in the rainforest, but the rainforest is part of her. Everyday she greets all of the animals, takes in her beautiful surroundings and speaks with the rainforest. One morning the rainforest calls out to her in a troubling voice. Will Zonia be able to help?
Wisdom by Darcy Pattison // Picture book here
Wisdom is one of the oldest albatross’ to ever live. She has survived many natural and manmade disasters and even hatches an egg at 60 years old! An incredible story of survival.
The Juno Valentine Collection by Eva Chen // Picture book here
Written by the Instagram star, Eva Chen, these two stories of Juno Chen are full of life and adventure! This collection contains the books Juno Valentine and the Fantastic Fashion Adventure and Juno Valentine and the Magical Shoes.
Basketball Dreams by Chris Paul // Picture book here
Professional basketball star, Chris Paul, writes this picture book focused on the example of his Grandpa Chilly, which made him into the person he is is today!
Go Back to Sleep by Zoe Foster Blake // Picture book here
There is nothing like finally being able to curl up in your nice warm bed and drifting off to sleep. But poor Finn keeps getting interrupted by his parents requests to go to the bathroom, needing a little drink, a bad dream! This hilarious, tables are turned picture book, will have both you and your child laughing!
We Are Water Protectors by Carole Linstrom // Picture book here
This one nabbed the 2021 Caldecott award! Beautifully written and illustrated, you don’t want to miss the audio or physical version of this one!
Hey Grandude by Paul Mcartney // Picture book here
Calling all explorers!! Grandude is the best at going on adventures and loves taking his four grandkids all around the globe. From avalanches to stampedes, there isn’t a dull moment in this one!
Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle by Nina LaCour // Picture book here
The best place in the world? Between Mama and Mommy! But when Mommy goes away, it’s hard to feel cozy—until library trips, movie nights, phone chats, and a sweet garden surprise help her pass the days until Mommy comes home for the perfect cuddle.
Mindful Mr. Sloth and Waiting on Mr. Sloth by Katy Hudson // Picture book here
Sasha speeds through life while Mr. Sloth takes his time—and that’s just the start of their unlikely friendship. This sweet story teaches kids how to pause, breathe, and enjoy the little moments in life.
Barbara Throws a Wobbler by Nadia Shireen // Picture book here
A sock problem, a mysterious pea, and one BIG tantrum! Barbara’s hilarious fit is a perfect way to teach kids (and grown-ups) about big moods and how to make them go away.
Hello Emma Memma by Emma Memma // Picture book here
If your little one loves songs, rhymes, dances, and finger plays, this book sounds like pure perfection. It promises a magical storytime filled with joy and movement!
I’d Know You Anywhere, My Love and Because You’re Mine by Nancy Tillman // Picture book here
These two stories are classics to gift someone for a baby shower because they share so much love. But even after it seems that they might grow out of these stories, a child can never grow tired of too much love.
Alba the Hundred Year Old Fish by Lara Hawthorne // Picture book here
If you have a little ocean lover at home, this book will spark even more inspiration. Alba the fish has spent her life collecting treasures from the ocean floor (delicate shells, colorful coral, and more) but when her collection starts losing its sparkle and strange bits of plastic appear, she knows the reef is in trouble.
Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney // Picture book here
This timeless tale is about a woman who dreams of travel, a home by the sea, and making the world more beautiful. It’s inspired by the real ‘Lupine Lady,’ as it celebrates a legacy of kindness and the countless lupines she planted along the coast of Maine
Baseball Saved Us by Ken Mochizuki // Picture book here
I really love picture books for sharing historical events to my girls. And in this one, after Pearl Harbor, Shorty and his family are sent to a desert internment camp where life is hot, dusty, and hard. To bring hope and joy, they build a baseball field and start a league—showing that even in tough times, teamwork, courage, and friendship can make all the difference.
Oi Frog & Friends by Kes Gray // Picture book here
Six Oi Frog! adventures = one hilarious audio collection! Full of silly rhymes, goofy animals, and David Mitchell’s comedic charm, these stories are sure to have kids roaring with laughter.
The Extraordinary Lives Collection by Sheila Kanani // Picture book here
This biography series shares the stories of extraordinary modern and historical figures. It includes the biographies of: Rosa Parks, Katherine Johnson, Michelle Obama, Mary Seacole, Serena Williams, and Nelson Mandela.
Scaredy Squirrel by Melanie Watt // Picture book here
My girls love this book about how things turn out not to be as scary as Scaredy Squirrel imagined.
Natalie Portman’s Fables by Natalie Portman // Picture book here
I grew up with Aesop’s Fables, and this audio version (beautifully retold by Natalie Portman) is a delightful way to introduce your children to three timeless tales like The Tortoise and the Hare, The Three Little Pigs, and Country Mouse and City Mouse. Truly, these are classics worth sharing.
Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola // Picture book here
How can you not just LOVE Strega Nona and her magic pot? This one was included in my 100 Picture Book list a few years back!
Percy the Park Keeper Collection by Nick Butterworth // Picture book here
For decades, Percy the Park Keeper has been winning hearts with his kindness and care for his animal friends. These seven stories are perfect for young readers who love a bit of whimsy, and a little parkside fun.
The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak // Picture book here
I mean, if you’re going to talk about funny kid books, this is for sure going to be #1 on my list. We’ve read this book dozens of times and my children still laugh themselves silly when they hear things like “BLORK”.
The Elmer Collection by David McKee // Picture book here
How could you not smile at Elmer, the patchwork elephant bursting with color and charm? This delightful collection brings together 10 of Elmer’s best-loved adventures, from finding a lost teddy to meeting a clumsy kangaroo.
There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed Collection by // Picture book here
If you are wanting to introduce rhyming and repetition with your child, these are the books to try. Plus the wacky things the old lady swallows, gives points of discussion and laughter!
Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes // Picture book here
I have a special place in my heart for Kevin Henkes’ mouse books and this one is no exception. Chrysanthemum loves her special name. Until she goes to school and the other students laugh at her long name and the fact that she’s named after a flower. For any child who has ever been teased about having a long or uncommon name, this book is just the sweetest (and a good reminder to ALL kids that names are special and not to be mocked for any reason).
I Eat Poop by Mark Pett // Picture book here
I’m not a huge fan of potty humor, but this story about a dung beetle’s secret of eating poop is pretty cute. Dougie wants to be proud of being a poop eating dung beetle because of all of the cool things this action provides, but he knows he will get made fun of if everyone at school sees his lunch!
Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell // Picture book here
This is one of those board books that even though my children are WAY past the board book age, I’ve kept. This would be so fun for the littlest readers to listen on Yoto while peeking to see what is under the flaps. My girls were OBSESSED with it!
Runny Babbit by Shel Silverstein // Picture book here
At this point, Shel Silverstein’s name is basically synonymous with children’s poetry and even the most reluctant child can’t help but crack a smile at some of his wacky poems.
Meg and Mog Audio Collection by Helen Nicoll // Picture book here
This collection includes 13 stories about Meg, a witch, who never seems to get her spells right, and her cat, Mog. Plus, this one is full of sound effects and music that will keep even the littlest listeners entertained.
Stellaluna by Janell Cannon // Picture book here
This one is a classic about a little fruit bat, named Stellaluna, who is separated from her mother after an owl attack and taken in by a family of birds. To belong in her new world, she must set aside her bat habits to fit in.
The Pout Pout Fish Collection by Deborah Diesen // Picture book here
I wasn’t familiar with this book until a friend introduced it to Ella when she was 2 and it quickly became one of her all-time favorites. This collection includes 8 Pout Pout Fish bestsellers!
Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora // Picture book here
Omu can’t wait for her delicious dinner. But when the smell brings in neighbors from all over that want to share her dinner, Omu ends up with none for herself.
Little Dreamers by Vashti Harrison // Picture book here
This is a biographical picture book, featuring more than a dozen different visionary women from around the world. These are absolutely beautiful books, both story and illustration wise.
The Gruffalo and Friends Collection by Julia Donaldson // Picture book here
If you’ve read The Gruffalo so many times you could recite it by heart, this Yoto card is the perfect stand-in when you’re not available to read aloud. Julia Donaldson’s magical, fun stories will have kids eager to follow along in the books too! (This collection includes: The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom, The Snail and the Whale, Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book, Monkey Puzzle, and The Smartest Giant)
Rumple Buttercup by Matthew Gray Gubler // Picture book here
Rumple Buttercup is delightfully weird: green skin, crooked teeth, and one foot just a bit bigger than the other! Join him and his silly imaginary friend, Candy Corn Carl, on a funny, heartwarming adventure all about celebrating what makes us unique and finding where we truly belong.
The Very Impatient Caterpillar and The Little Butterfly That Could by Ross Burach // Picture book here
This picture book is a hilarious and fun way to discuss patience. The impatient caterpillar decides to join the other caterpillars in metamorphosing, but has a hard time with how long it’s taking. My kids LOVE this one!
Goodnight Spaceman Collection by Michelle Robinson // Picture book here
Bedtime story Yoto cards are some of my absolute favorites, because there’s nothing better than letting someone else set the perfect mood for sleep. And how cool is it that one of them is an astronaut reading from the International Space Station? This collection includes six delightful bedtime tales.
Miss Nelson is Missing by Harry Allard // Picture book here
I’ve professed my love for this book before (including with a full-on double costume) and I don’t think I’ll ever outgrow it. It’s so fun as a reader when you’re in on the secret that the book characters aren’t.
The Snowy Day and Whistle for Willie by Ezra Jack Keats // Picture book here
For me, this is the ultimate picture book about snow. It just doesn’t get better than Peter heading out to play all the classic games of childhood in the snow, from making snow angels to using a stick to knock snow off the tree branches. And, of course, every parent can’t help but smile a bit when he takes a snowball home in his pocket to save for another day.
Llama Destroys the World Collection by Jonathan Stutzman // Picture book here
I don’t know how I’ve never read these ones to my girls – I know for a fact they would go crazy over this hilariously adorable llama who loves food so much the world almost ends!
The One and Only Shrek! by Wiliam Steig // Picture book here
Before Shrek was a movie star, he was the star of William Steig’s hilarious SHREK!, the story of a swamp-dwelling ogre on a wild quest for adventure (and love). This collection of six charmingly odd tales is filled with brave girls, silly mice, grumpy boys, and plenty of laughs. Plus, with an audio narrated by Meryl Streep, you know you are in for a treat!
Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman // Picture book here
This is a book that I could not part with even after my girls outgrew the board book stage. Is it a little strange? Yes. Did my girls just love, love, love it? Also yes.
Go, Dog, Go! by P.D. Eastman // Picture book here
At 60 pages, this book is going to require a bit more reading stamina, but it has a lot of simple words and feels really great for a young reader. Pair it with the Yoto card and they will really feel like a rockstar!
Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey // Picture book here
I’ve loved this Caldecott winner my entire life and the story of two ducks who find a place in Boston to raise their little brood of ducklings just makes the whole world feel like springtime to me, even with it’s single-color illustrations.
The Ancient Adventures Collection by James Davies // Picture book here
History can feel overwhelming, but this clever, kid-friendly introduction makes ancient adventures easy and fun to explore. Perfect for listeners aged 6+, it delivers quick, humorous dives into everything from famous pirates to mummification. (This collection includes: Meet the Ancient Egyptians, Meet the Ancient Romans, Meet the Ancient Greeks, and Meet the Pirates)
On the Night You Were Born by Nancy Tillman // Picture book here
This is such a classic book that’s given out at baby showers everywhere. It displays all of the magical things that occurred the night someone was born. It’s one of those books that really makes you feel loved and special.
Night in the City by Julie Downing // Picture book here
When children are fast asleep, some people are hard at work keeping the city safe and clean, and when daylight comes they go home to sleep. The pages filled with detailed illustrations follow eight different people working eight different evening jobs.
Little Owl’s Collection by Divya Srinivasan // Picture book here
In this collection of three stories, Little Owl adventures through the forest during the night, the day, and in the winter. This is perfect for beginning listeners and my girls have loved these sweet stories.
Too Many Carrots by Katy Hudson // Picture book here
Rabbit has SO many carrots. So many he can’t even fit into his own house anymore. And when a friend invites him to come to HIS house, there is no way he can leave behind all those carrots.
Where’s Spot and Other Stories by Eric Hill // Picture book here
You probably know Spot, the mischievous puppy who hides instead of eating his supper, sending Mother Dog on a playful hunt around the house. This Yoto card brings even more of Spot’s adventures with 24 stories totaling nearly two hours of delightful listening. It’s plenty of entertainment (and giggles) for toddlers and preschoolers.
Happy Families Collection by Allan Ahlberg // Picture book here
There’s nothing quite like an audiobook filled with music and sound effects – it makes the story truly come alive! Families can be big, small, silly, or downright wacky, and this Yoto collection delivers giggles galore with 11 beloved tales brought to life like never before.
Before She Was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome // Picture book here
This book about Harriet Tubman begins with her as an old woman and then travels back to revisit all the roles she played in her life, from a young girl until old age.
The Thing About Bees by Shabazz Larkin // Picture book here
Bees might be a little pesky, but without them, we’d lose strawberries for shortcakes and avocados for tacos! With gorgeous Norman Rockwell–inspired illustrations, this book is a celebration of these buzzing heroes, blending a father’s love with fun facts about bees, why they matter, and how not to get stung.
When You Can Swim by Jack Wong // Picture book here
Splash, float, and dive into the joyful world of swimming with this charming picture book. Jack Wong invites kids to explore sunlit lakes, tiny waterfalls, and the fun (and sometimes spooky) wonders of water while learning to swim.
The Mog Collection by Judith Kerr // Picture book here
Cat lover or not, it’s impossible not to fall for the forgetful charm of Mog! This Yoto collection features five of her most delightful adventures.
Brown Bear & Friends Collection by Eric Carle and Bill Martin // Picture book here
This is probably the board book that I remember most from my childhood. And if you have a child who would like to read this book 10,000 times straight through? A Yoto card is an easy way to save your voice and your sanity.
Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters by John Steptoe // Picture book here
If there’s ever a book to read along with the physical copy while you listen, it’s a Caldecott medalist, because you know the illustrations will be stunning! This retelling of Cinderella, set in Zimbabwe and inspired by a traditional folktale, weaves together culture, history, and lush storytelling as Mufaro’s two daughters (one kind, one selfish) are both invited before the king, but only one can be queen.
Rise! by Bethandy Hegedus // Picture book here
From trolley car conductor to world-famous poet, Maya Angelou’s life is nothing short of extraordinary. This gorgeous picture-book biography shows kids how she turned challenges into triumphs, and why her voice still inspires today.
The Zog and Friends Collection by Julia Donaldson // Picture book here
We’re big Julia Donaldson fans in our house, but I’ll admit—I don’t always love reading rhyming books aloud. That’s why I’m especially grateful for this Yoto collection that does the storytelling for me! (This collection includes the following stories: Zog, Tabby McTat, Stick Man, The Highway Rat, The Ugly Five, and The Scarecrow Wedding)
Fry Bread by Kevin Noble Maillard // Picture book here
This gorgeous book about a Native American food staple has been a favorite at our house – when my youngest was a toddler, she asked for it daily for six months!
Frog and Toad Audio Collection by Arnold Lobel // Picture book here
These were some of the first audiobooks Tally ever listened to, back before I’d even heard of a Yoto Player, and they continue to be some of the stories she most loves returning to. Arnold Lobel’s reading is just so excellent.
Hairy Maclary Treasury by Lynley Dodd // Picture book here
Our family has LOVED Hairy Maclary since Ella was a tiny girl – at one point, I’m pretty sure Bart and I could have recited it backwards and forwards. These animal stories are a can’t miss!
Llama Llama Collection by Anna Dewdney // Picture book here
This collection of 10 beloved Llama Llama books are almost all read by the author and make perfect quiet time or bed time listening.
Miffy by Dick Bruna // Picture book here
If you haven’t met Miffy yet, you’ll quickly fall in love with this charming white bunny through 19 timeless, heartwarming stories. They are sweet and simple, perfect for even the youngest listeners.
The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Other Stories by Beatrix Potter // Picture book here
All the love for Peter Rabbit and company at our house. This collection has 5 of Beatrix Potter’s most beloved little animal tales, so it’ll keep you in stories for a nice long time.
Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne // Picture book here
This was one of the very first Yoto cards we got and it’s still a favorite around here. The more than three hour collection of classic Winnie the Pooh stories is incredible Yoto card to have on hand.
Duck on a Bike and Duck on a Tractor by David Shannon // Picture book here
David Shannon has written some fantastic picture books, but none are sillier than a duck riding a bike…unless it’s a duck driving a tractor. This Yoto card brings you both hilarious adventures in one.
Fancy Nancy Collection by Jane O’Connor // Picture book here
With 31 Fancy Nancy stories included, this is a LOT of bang for your Yoto card buck. Plus you don’t have to worry about correctly pronouncing some of those big words!
Corduroy Collection by Don Freeman // Picture book here
This delightful story of a little toy bear who is looking for someone to choose him from the shelf at the department store and take him home so he can have a friend has been a classic for more than 50 years and I’ve read it hundreds of times to my girls – it’s a classic for a reason! There are 4 little Corduroy stories included on this card.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Other Stories by Eric Carle // Picture book here
This Yoto Club card features a literary classic from the beloved Eric Carle, and it includes four additional stories in addition to The Very Hungry Caterpillar. There is even one reading of the Hungry Caterpillar narrated by Eric Carle himself!
The Bad Seed and Other Stories by John Jory // Picture book here
Three of the books in this funny series (The Bad Seed, The Good Egg, and The Couch Potato are included in this Yoto card and my children are obsessed with every one of them.
The Little Engine Collection by Watty Piper & Craig Dorfman, Janet Lawler // Picture book here
You might know the Little Engine’s mantra “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can”. When an engine breaks down bringing fun toys and foods over the mountains, one small engine takes the leap to pull the heavy load. There is a reason this classic is loved by little ones!
Ada Twist Scientist & The Questioneers by Andrea Beaty // Picture book here
(Includes: Ada Twist Scientist, Rosie Revere Engineer, Iggy Peck Architect, Sofia Valdez Future Prez, Aaron Slater Illustrator, Lila Greer Teacher of the Year)
