We thought we’d share some of our favorite picture books about wild animals to read with your little ones. These books are great to help build up excitement for a trip to the zoo, but they are also a great way to keep the conversation going after a visit to the zoo. But let’s be honest, even on the grayest day, when a trip to the zoo is nowhere nearby, these books are sure to bring a smile to the wild at heart. You might remember Stephanie from the adorable Valentine that she shared with us, but what you may not know about Stephanie is that she has a degree in Children’s Literature. She is basically an expert in the best books for children and she compiled this list for us!
These books are the perfect way to introduce your child to different animals, and to prepare them for some of the things that they’ll see at the zoo. These would also make perfect gifts for any child who might be celebrating their birthday at the zoo! If you want to see more of Stephanie’s book picks, make sure to follow her on Instagram.
See one you just have to have? Click the links below to find them on Amazon. We searched for the least expensive options and Amazon Prime shipping, if it was available! The links below are HMM affiliate links – thanks for supporting HMM!
Psst! – Adam Rex
Mr. Tiger Goes Wild – Peter Brown
Color Zoo – Lois Ehlert
Creature ABC – Andrew Zuckerman
Actual Size – Steve Jenkins
Escape of Marvin the Ape (Hardback) – Caralyn Buehner and Mark Buehner
Edward the Emu -Sheena Knowles and Rod Clement
The Zoo – Suzy Lee
Zoo – ology – Joelle Jolivet
A Sick Day for Amos McGee – Philip C. Stead and Erin Stead
The Great Escape from City Zoo – Tohby Riddle
1, 2, 3 to the Zoo – Eric Carle
Good Night, Gorilla – Peggy Rathmann
Bruno Munari’s Zoo
Thank you Stephanie, for compiling this list for us!
Great list! I read that last one as Bruno Mars Zoo. Ha! #thismomistired