Moms work hard! So what are the best sweet children’s books about moms to read and give for Mother’s Day? Any of these picture books about moms will be lovely to read as you celebrate Mother’s Day. They will also make good gifts for a baby shower or other celebration for a Mom.
Note from Melissa: I asked Meredith to write this article because I do not celebrate Mother’s Day. If you are in the same boat as me, skip this article and move on to another book list. You can find lots of good book recommendations about many other topics. Sending love to you, whatever your perspective is on the holiday.
20 Sweet Books About Moms
Lullaby (For A Black Mother) by Langston Hughes and Sean Qualls
This poetic lullaby song, coupled with Sean Qualls ethereal artwork, is a real gem for a new mother. It’s beautiful and includes biographical information about Langston Hughes.
Saturday by Oge Mora
When a mother and daughter are ready for their special Saturday together, everything goes wrong. But the day is still special because they are together. A sweet mom story with vibrant art.
Like The Moon Loves The Sky by Hena Khan and Saffa Khan
Based on the Quran and Muslim family traditions, this is a gentle love story extolling all the wishes a mother has for her child. It makes a beautiful bedtime book.
Home Base: A Mother-Daughter Story by Nikki Tate and Katie Kath
This book is about moms and daughters who don’t fit a certain mold. A bricklaying mom is raising a star-pitcher daughter, and they bond over their ability to break through gender norms.
Supermoms! by Heather Lang and Jamie Harper, illustrated by Jamie Harper
Did you know animals are moms, too? This book shows animal moms who make safe, comfy homes, are creative with transportation, and defend their young. Fascinating facts about animal supermoms are paired with comic-style illustrations.
Mommy’s Khimar by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and Ebony Glenn
This book is such a darling way to show how we can feel a mother’s love in all kinds of ways, including when you wear her clothes or headscarves!
She Leads The Elephant Matriarch by June Smalls, illustrations by Yumi Shimokawara
The elephant matriarch leads her daughters and granddaughters to food and water. She teaches and protects. She’s an inspiring leader of her extended family. Facts about African elephants and impressive illustrations accompany this elephant matriarch’s story.
Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle by Nina LaCour and Kaylani Juanita
With beautiful illustrations, this book shows how we can love and be loved by our mothers even when they are away from home. This little girl is especially lucky because as Mommy is away on a work trip, Mama is home taking good care of her until they can all be together again.
Your Mama by NoNieqa Ramos and Jacqueline AlcAntara
For all the hip and funny mamas out there! This book for Mother’s Day touches on all the funny, brave, hard-working, and stylish things about mama in a vibrant way.
Mama Says: A Book Of Love For Mothers and Sons by Rob D. Walker, Leo Dillon, and Diane Dillon
An older book but still just as endearing. Mothers from all races, cultures, and religions pass on loving wisdom to their sons as they grow.
The Moon and Back For You by Emilia Bechrakis Serhant and EG Keller
Written by a woman who underwent IVF treatment, this book illustrates how the journey to motherhood can be a struggle. Though through all of that, the joy of meeting your baby is the biggest reward.
Mama Do You Love Me? by Barbara M. Joosse and Barbara Lavallee
No matter what her child says, Mama always responds with love. This classic picture book about moms is a dear example of a mother’s unconditional love.
Together by Emma Dodd. Part of Emma Dodd’s “Love You” series
This sweet little board book shows how any time together with a parent is special through the eyes of a baby otter. Just right for babies and toddlers.
What Is Given From The Heart by Patricia C. McKissack and April Harrison
This touching book is about a mother and her son as they navigate hard times and still find it in their hearts to give to others. Poignant and powerful.
In My Anaana’s Amuatik by Nadia Sammurtok and Lenny Lishchenko
Meant for infants and toddlers, this book shows how warm and cozy we are snuggled in our mothers love, and in her amuatik. (An amuatik is a snug place on a parka where a baby is held.) Another choice that is wonderful for bedtime.
Hero Mom by Melinda Hardin and Bryan Langdo
This book highlights moms in the military who are heroes to their families and country. Just right for any child who has had to be separated from a military parent. (There is also a companion book called Hero Dad.)
My Mama Is A Mechanic by Doug Cenko
Moms are mechanics, doctors, and architects. But most importantly, moms love you. This cute little book for Mother’s Day shows how many roles are encompassed in being a mom.
You’re Snug With Me by Chitra Soundar and Poonam Mistry
No matter what is happening out in the world, the bear cubs in this book are snug with their mama. So snuggly for bedtime or anytime you want to hold your children tight. Bonus, the illustrations in this book are absolutely gorgeous!
My Mom Is Magical by Sabrina Moyle and Eunice Moyle
Part of the Hello! Lucky Book series, this vibrant book exudes fun! Simple but filled with joy, this book states why moms are so great with bright Unicorn graphics.
Stella Brings The Family by Mirian B. Schiffer
When there is a Mother’s Day event at school, Stella wonders who to bring since she has two dads. In the end, she decides to bring the whole family! This book is so adorable and a wonderful celebration of all family structures.
Reading picture books for Mother’s Day is a sweet way to snuggle up together. These books will help to celebrate all the ways that moms are special.
What is your favorite way to celebrate motherhood or the moms in your life?
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