Here are 100 books that The Wonderful Things You Will Be fans have personally recommended if you like The Wonderful Things You Will Be. Book DNA is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Giraffes Can't Dance

Avery Smart Author Of Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word

From my list on mix fun stories with important lessons.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been passionate about teaching kindness and good manners since becoming a parent. Raising three energetic kids has shown me firsthand how small lessons in empathy and respect can shape their world. At first, I created fun stories to help my children understand the power of simple words like "please" and "thank you." Now, as a children’s book author, I bring those lessons to life through storytelling, making manners and values fun and memorable. The books on this list have inspired me in my journey, and I hope they bring the same joy and guidance to you and your little ones!

Avery's book list on mix fun stories with important lessons

Avery Smart Why Avery loves this book

I love this book because it’s a beautiful reminder that everyone has their own rhythm—even if the world doesn’t see it at first. The story is uplifting, the rhymes flow effortlessly, and the illustrations are pure joy. Every time I read it, I feel a little braver, a little lighter, and a lot more inspired.

What makes this book unforgettable for me is how it celebrates confidence and self-expression. I’ve seen kids' faces light up when they realize, just like Gerald the giraffe, that they don’t have to fit in to shine. It’s one of those books that sticks with you long after you close it, reminding you to dance to your own beat—no matter what anyone else thinks.

By Giles Andreae , Guy Parker-Rees (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked Giraffes Can't Dance as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 2, 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

Gerald was a tall giraffe whose neck was long and slim,
But his knees were awfully bandy and his legs were rather thin . . .

Gerald the giraffe longs to go to the great Jungle Dance, but how can he join in when he doesn't know how to tango or two-step? Everyone knows that giraffes can't dance . . . or can they?

A funny, touching and triumphant story about being yourself and finding your own tune, with joyful illustrations from Guy Parker Rees. This chunky board book edition is perfect for little hands.

"All toddlers should grow up…


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Book cover of The Time-Jinx Twins

The Time-Jinx Twins by Carol Fisher Saller,

Twelve-year-old identical twins Ellie and Kat accidentally trigger their physicist mom’s unfinished time machine, launching themselves into a high-stakes adventure in 1970 Chicago. If they learn how to join forces and keep time travel out of the wrong hands, they might be able find a way home. Ellie’s gymnastics and…

Book cover of I Love You Like No Otter

Avery Smart Author Of Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word

From my list on mix fun stories with important lessons.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been passionate about teaching kindness and good manners since becoming a parent. Raising three energetic kids has shown me firsthand how small lessons in empathy and respect can shape their world. At first, I created fun stories to help my children understand the power of simple words like "please" and "thank you." Now, as a children’s book author, I bring those lessons to life through storytelling, making manners and values fun and memorable. The books on this list have inspired me in my journey, and I hope they bring the same joy and guidance to you and your little ones!

Avery's book list on mix fun stories with important lessons

Avery Smart Why Avery loves this book

I adore this one because it’s the perfect mix of sweetness and playful wordplay. From the moment I picked it up, I couldn’t stop smiling—it’s filled with adorable puns and charming animal illustrations that make reading it an absolute delight. It’s the kind of book that instantly lifts your mood.

What makes this book so special to me is how it captures love in such a lighthearted, joyful way. Whether reading it with little ones or gifting it to someone special, it always brings warmth and laughter. I love how it turns simple moments into something magical, reminding us how words can be both fun and meaningful. It’s a book I reach for whenever I need a dose of happiness!

By Rose Rossner , Sydney Hanson (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I Love You Like No Otter as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Give hedgehugs and kisses to your little squeakheart with this pun-tastic, funny baby book, the perfect gift for baby showers, new parents, or any occasion!
There's no better way to say "I love you" than with a sweet and heartfelt animal pun book! I Love You Like No Otter combines a warm message of love with beautifully illustrated animals families will love to read and share together. From Valentine's Day books for kids to baby shower gifts and bedtime readalouds all year long, this adorable board book is purrfect for anyone you love beary much!
The best book gift for:…


Book cover of I Prayed for You

Avery Smart Author Of Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word

From my list on mix fun stories with important lessons.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been passionate about teaching kindness and good manners since becoming a parent. Raising three energetic kids has shown me firsthand how small lessons in empathy and respect can shape their world. At first, I created fun stories to help my children understand the power of simple words like "please" and "thank you." Now, as a children’s book author, I bring those lessons to life through storytelling, making manners and values fun and memorable. The books on this list have inspired me in my journey, and I hope they bring the same joy and guidance to you and your little ones!

Avery's book list on mix fun stories with important lessons

Avery Smart Why Avery loves this book

I love this story because it beautifully captures the deep, unconditional love between a parent and child. Every page feels like a heartfelt embrace, reminding me of the quiet, powerful moments of love and protection we offer to little ones. It’s a book that fills my heart every time I read it.

What makes this book so special to me is how it weaves faith, love, and gratitude into such a simple yet touching story. The gentle words and warm illustrations create a sense of comfort, making it a perfect bedtime read. I’ve found myself reflecting on my own prayers and hopes for the children in my life, making this book not just a story but a deeply personal experience.

By Jean Fischer ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I Prayed for You as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

One of the best children's books about love and family, I Prayed for You by Jean Fischer reveals how deep a mother's love for her child can go. This board book is great for little ones and has sold more than 300,000 copies!

The heartwarming story follows a mother bear who prayed for her child's arrival, then cherished and prayed for each of her baby's firsts--from first step to first boo-boo to first day of school.

I Prayed for You is just as meaningful to parents as to children. Inside you'll find

10 rhyming prayers that show children how loved…


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Book cover of The Time-Jinx Twins

The Time-Jinx Twins by Carol Fisher Saller,

Twelve-year-old identical twins Ellie and Kat accidentally trigger their physicist mom’s unfinished time machine, launching themselves into a high-stakes adventure in 1970 Chicago. If they learn how to join forces and keep time travel out of the wrong hands, they might be able find a way home. Ellie’s gymnastics and…

Book cover of Why a Son Needs a Mom

Avery Smart Author Of Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word

From my list on mix fun stories with important lessons.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been passionate about teaching kindness and good manners since becoming a parent. Raising three energetic kids has shown me firsthand how small lessons in empathy and respect can shape their world. At first, I created fun stories to help my children understand the power of simple words like "please" and "thank you." Now, as a children’s book author, I bring those lessons to life through storytelling, making manners and values fun and memorable. The books on this list have inspired me in my journey, and I hope they bring the same joy and guidance to you and your little ones!

Avery's book list on mix fun stories with important lessons

Avery Smart Why Avery loves this book

I love this one because it beautifully illustrates the unbreakable bond between a mother and her son. Every page is filled with heartfelt reminders of the little moments that shape a lifetime, making me reflect on the special role a mother plays in guiding, supporting, and loving her child unconditionally.

What makes this book truly special to me is the way it captures both the simple joys and the deep, meaningful lessons that mothers pass on. The touching words and warm illustrations make it a book I want to share with families again and again. It’s a reminder of the love, wisdom, and strength that mothers give so freely, and it left me feeling both grateful and nostalgic.

By Gregory Lang , Susanna Leonard Hill , Gail Yerrill (illustrator)

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Why a Son Needs a Mom as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Based on Gregory Lang's New York Times bestselling original series! The perfect Mother's Day gift, birthday present for mom, or sweet keepsake to show why Mom is so special!
A touching picture book showcasing all the ways a mother will help her son grow, this is the gift for every mom and little boy to celebrate their special bond. Featuring charming animal illustrations and heartwarming rhymes about the loving moments mothers and sons share, Why a Son Needs a Mom is the perfect story to connect mother and son together.
From the moment that I saw your beautiful face,
Held…


Book cover of This Is How It Always Is

Caitlin Weaver Author Of Such a Good Family

From my list on tackle the messy emotions of motherhood.

Why am I passionate about this?

Becoming a mother rocked my world in countless ways, drawing me to books that explore the raw, unfiltered truth about how challenging motherhood can be. The complexities—the love, guilt, and frustration—resonate deeply with me. Motherhood is also why I started writing; initially, I wanted to process the overwhelming emotions I was feeling. When I began sharing my writing with friends, their “Yeah, me too's” made me realize I wasn’t alone. I have deep respect for authors who can capture the messiness of motherhood so honestly, and I’m inspired by their ability to put into words what so many of us experience.

Caitlin's book list on tackle the messy emotions of motherhood

Caitlin Weaver Why Caitlin loves this book

This doubles as one of my favorite novels and also a treasured parenting how-to book. It’s a poignant reminder that motherhood is pure on-the-job learning and that you’ll probably never get it just right. I learned so much about parenting my own children from the story of Rosie and her husband, Penn, who are parents to a little boy, Claude, who wants to be a girl.

This book captures the true essence of parenting: Rosie and Penn love Claude fiercely and do what they believe is best to support their child—only to discover later that their choices were deeply flawed. This is something I really relate to! Overall, this book is a heartfelt, hilarious testament to the messiness of motherhood and the imperfect love we have for our kids.

By Laurie Frankel ,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked This Is How It Always Is as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'A very special book about a family with a secret. It made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me think.' Liane Moriarty, No. 1 bestselling author of THE HUSBAND'S SECRET

Laurie Frankel's THIS IS HOW IT ALWAYS IS the 'fascinating story of a thoroughly modern family and the giant, multifaceted love that binds them... Sparkles with wit and wisdom' (Maria Semple). Perfect for readers of WE ARE ALL COMPLETELY BESIDE OURSELVES and THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY.

This is how a family keeps a secret...and how that secret ends up keeping them.

This is how a family…


Book cover of I Love You to the Moon and Back

Xaviera Plooij Author Of The Wonder Weeks: A Stress-Free Guide to Your Baby's Behavior

From my list on children's books to stimulate development.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am the co-author and CEO of The Wonder Weeks. I advise various global players in the field of babies and I'm a sought-after speaker at fairs and in daily exchange with mothers and fathers. With all this knowledge I know the needs of parents and their children like no other, with my books and apps I stand for power to the parents! 

Xaviera's book list on children's books to stimulate development

Xaviera Plooij Why Xaviera loves this book

It’s never enough to show love to your children. Telling love stories to your little one is very important. This book shows the love between a bear and a cub, who are together every single day. They show their love for each other in many ways. The illustration and story of this adorable book make the bear and cub so real and came right into my heart. For me, it is one of the best real love stories, love in a way how it means to be.

By Amelia Hepworth , Tim Warnes (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I Love You to the Moon and Back as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 2, 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

So snuggle safely in my arms; our day is nearly done. I love you to the moon and stars, my precious little one.

A beautiful hardback gift edition of the international best-seller I Love You to the Moon and Back, a bedtime favourite with familiar and reassuring text by Amelia Hepworth and heartwarming illustrations by Tim Warnes.

When the sun comes up, Big Bear and Little Bear think of new ways to share their love. Big Bear loves Little Bear more and more as each day passes, right up to each new moon - and back.

Now this joyful celebration…


Book cover of Made for Me

Natasha Wing Author Of The Night Before Father's Day

From my list on fathers and journals for daughters.

Why am I passionate about this?

My father died in 2020 during the pandemic so Father’s Day has taken on a new importance to me as far as reminding people to spend time with the people they love before they are gone. I had started to write a story about my dad and his childhood days before he went to the hospital, and with the help of his friend, was able to complete it for the family to have as a keepsake. I encourage kids to ask questions of their parents and for parents to write down or audio record the stories that they want to pass down. Children’s books and journals are a great way to start the conversation.

Natasha's book list on fathers and journals for daughters

Natasha Wing Why Natasha loves this book

I love good rhyming books and this one works! Plus there is a heart-warming refrain that especially gets me at the end of the story. “Of all the children that ever could be, you are the one made just for me.” It’s about a father who adores his new baby from its soft, tiny hands to all the cute things the child does. The illustrations depict a very large, round father who reminds me of a gentle Paul Bunyan. I could see it as a baby shower gift for dads. 

By Zack Bush , Gregorio de Lauretis (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Made for Me as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

National Best Seller:  Made For Me 
Over 2000 5-star Amazon reviews
Of all the children that ever could be,
You are the one made just for me.

From a child's first uttered "Dada" to his or her first unsteady steps, nothing can adequately convey the joy and awe of watching the birth and growth of a new child. Now releasing as a board book filled with adorable illustrations and the refrain, "You are the one made just for me," Made for Me is a winning presentation of tender moments that tie a father and his new child together--forever.


Book cover of Never Let Go: How to Parent Your Child Through Mental Illness

Tanith Carey Author Of The Friendship Maze: How to Help Your Child Navigate Their Way to Positive and Happier Friendships

From my list on for really understanding children and teens.

Why am I passionate about this?

For the last 14 years, I've written books that aim to tackle the most pressing worries for parents and educators – and to understand and connect with kids better. It’s a sad fact that research continues to show that our kids are not as happy as they might be, often due to feeling overwhelmed by academic pressures at school, and growing up in a more ‘stressed’ society. So, as a parent and a parenting journalist, I believe it’s never been more important to understand how the world looks to them – and give both parents and kids evidence-based tools to help them navigate this. I aim to make my books enlightening, readable, and practical.

Tanith's book list on for really understanding children and teens

Tanith Carey Why Tanith loves this book

This book was another total game-changer and I will never stop recommending it. It totally benefits from being written by a parent, rather than a clinician, but fearlessly tackles the terror faced by mothers and fathers when their child starts to struggle with a serious mental health crisis. It also offers a fearless road map out of this dark place. Suzanne writes beautifully too which makes the book easy to read despite its difficult subject matter. Suzanne now heads up the charity and Facebook support group, Parenting Mental Health, which is a safe haven for many parents where they can honestly express what it’s like to be in this very scary place.

By Suzanne Alderson ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Never Let Go as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

How to help your child with mental illness through partnering, not parenting.

Never Let Go is a supportive and practical guide for parents looking after a child with a mental illness. Suzanne Alderson understands the agonising struggle of bringing a child back from the brink of suicide, having spent three years supporting her own daughter through recovery. Her method of 'partnering, not parenting' has now helped thousands of other parents through her charity, Parenting Mental Health.

Combining Suzanne's honest personal experience with expert input from psychologists, this book provides parents with the methods and knowledge they need to support, shield…


Book cover of In My Heart

Elizabeth Jorgensen Author Of I Love You More

From my list on children's stories that convey profound love.

Why am I passionate about this?

It's a pleasure to share these books with other readers because they so elegantly convey love in a way for young readers to easily understand. They contain elements of reassurance that both children and parents need, especially during times of transition. I didn't comprehend how much love I could have for another person until the birth of my daughter. My love for her was so immense and all-consuming that it brought an unfathomable joy to my life. I read these books to her during transitional times as a way to articulate the infinite love I have for her. I hope they bring as much comfort and closeness to other readers as they have to us.

Elizabeth's book list on children's stories that convey profound love

Elizabeth Jorgensen Why Elizabeth loves this book

This gorgeously illustrated book helped my daughter and I through a difficult time when I had to travel out of the country for work. The illustrations put into pictures what I could not put into words- that no matter where I was, or what I was doing, she was always on my mind and in my heart. 

By Molly Bang ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked In My Heart as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Parents describe how their child is always in their hearts, no matter where they are or what they are doing.


Book cover of Owen

Christine J. Ko Author Of Sound Switch Wonder

From my list on promoting curiosity about our differences.

Why am I passionate about this?

I love reading, partly because I believe in the power of books to feed curiosity, promoting understanding, inclusivity, and belonging. While growing up, my favorite books didn’t have anyone that looked like me. Through reading diverse books to my kids, I realized I’d missed out on this meaningful experience as a child. Even more, I wanted my son, who has bilateral cochlear implants, to be able to read a picture book with a main character with cochlear implants. I hope you enjoy the books on this list as, in unique ways, they all celebrate curiosity about our differences.

Christine's book list on promoting curiosity about our differences

Christine J. Ko Why Christine loves this book

My son and I love this book about a boy (named Owen! Like my son!), his special blanket (most kids and parents can relate to having a special lovie), and how the parents creatively respect the child’s needs while navigating societal standards. Read this to see how everyone gets what they want!

By Kevin Henkes ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Owen as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

“Fuzzy goes where I go.”

Owen’s fuzzy yellow blanket is his favorite possession. Everywhere Owen goes, his blanket goes with him. Upstairs, downstairs, in-between. Inside, outside, upside down. Everywhere! Owen’s parents are in despair—soon Owen will begin school, and he can’t take Fuzzy with him then. Whatever can be done?

This Caldecott Honor Book will provide reassurance and laughs whether shared at home or during circle time. Every child uses some sort of security object, whether it’s a toy, a thumb, or a binky. For those not yet ready to let go and for those who have moved on, here’s…


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Book cover of Giraffes Can't Dance
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