Books have an incredible way of sparking curiosity, nurturing creativity, and creating lasting connections between parents and children. Whether you’re building your child’s first library or looking for the perfect gift, finding the best kids’ books can feel like discovering tiny treasures. As an Edmonton family photographer and mom, I’ve seen how much joy books bring to families—whether it’s during a cozy bedtime story or a quiet afternoon of reading together. Here, I’ll guide you through some of the best kids’ books that are perfect for sparking little imaginations and creating beautiful moments for your family.

Our Top 10 Favourite Kids’ Books

1. No Matter What Board Book by Debi Gliori. This is my personal favourite of all our stories.
2. This Little Trailblazer: A Girl Power Primer by Joan Holub and Daniel Roode. Out of all our girl power books, this is my favourite.
3. Oscar the Octopus: A Book About the Months of the Year by Matthew Van Fleet. This is a beautiful book with peek-a-boo pages and it’s fun to read.
4. Nature Stories: Little Bear-Discover an Amazing Story from the Natural World by IglooBooks and Gina Maldonado. The illustrations are so cute and it’s such a sweet story. 
5. Marie Currie: Little People Big Dreams by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara. We love all the Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara Little People, Big Dreams books, but this and the Stephen Hawking ones are our favourites. (note – not all the Little People books are authored by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and they aren’t as great as hers)
6. One Eagle Soaring by Roy Henry Vickers and Robert Budd. This book is a gorgeous piece of “Canadiananna.” Both my girls have memorized this book and love “reading it to me.” 
7. The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood and Renata Liwska.
8. Ada Twist, Scientist: A Picture Book by Andrea Beaty. There are a few books in this series but Ada Twist is the most fun to read and our favourite. 
9. Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae. I’ve read this hundreds of times and will probably read it hundreds more. I’ve gifted this book often.
10. The Very Cranky Bear by Nick Bland. We actually love all the Nick Bland stories.

Reader Favourites

My Edmonton mom friends shared their favourite children’s book recommendations for you as well!

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen

The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson

The Darkest Dark by Chris Hadfield

The Hug Who Got Stuck: Teaching children to access their heart and get free from sticky thoughts by Andrew Newman (submitted by Momma Penguin Photography)

Three Little Engines by Bob McKinnon and  Have You Filled a Bucket Today?: A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids by Carol McCloud (submitted by Suzi Buhiire Photography).

In Conclusion

Books have a special way of shaping childhood, creating opportunities for learning, bonding, and imagination. Whether you’re choosing a timeless classic or a new favourite, the right kids’ book can become a cherished part of your family’s story. As a mom and photographer in Edmonton, I love seeing how these little moments—like reading together—become some of the most treasured memories. If you’re looking to capture these beautiful milestones in your family’s journey, let’s connect. Together, we can preserve the magic of these fleeting moments for years to come.

All images of me with my children by the incredible CLAUDIA DE LA TORRE