The Magic of Mamas: 10 Picture Books Celebrating all Kinds of Mothers

Celebrating Mom

Not all moms are alike, but one thing is true. They all love their children. And most of the moms we know love to read with their kids too. Here is a selection of books celebrating all kinds of mothers. Whether for your own mama or some other mother you know, one of these picture books could make a perfect Mother's Day gift. Or you can check out our Mother's Day gift page for more ideas.

The Mommy Book

With his simple, childlike art, Todd Parr celebrates all different kinds of mothers. From how they look to how they spend their time to how they show their love to their kids. This is the perfect book for celebrating mommies on Mother's Day, and all year round. (Ages 1 and up)

I Love Mom with the Very Hungry Caterpillar

Show Mom just how much she means with this colorful book from Eric Carle. With joyful illustrations and colorful creatures, this charming keepsake is a great way to celebrate mothers, grandmothers, soon-to-be mothers, aunts, friends, or whomever you call Mom. (Ages 3 and up)

Mama, Do You Love Me?

In this tender and lyrical story by Barbara Joose, a young indigenous child tests the limits of independence and finds that a parent's love is unconditional and everlasting. With a focus on wildlife and cultural touchstones, the book is a beautiful reflection of a traditional Arctic childhood. (Ages 3 and up)

I Would Tuck You In

Perfect for fans of The Runaway Bunny, this children's bedtime story by Sarah Asper-Smith is filled with baby animals and their mothers—an otter tucks her little one into a kelp forest bed; a family of brown bears snuggle all winter; a bowhead whale sings a song to soothe her calf. (Ages 3 and up)

My Mama is a Mechanic

Snuggle up with Doug Cenko's book about a mama as her son sees her. She's a surgeon when she mends his favorite stuffed animal, a chemist in the kitchen, and an architect when they play with blocks. But no matter what happens, she's always his mama, and that's what's most important. (Ages 3 and up)

Someday

Every mother's dream is for her child to live life to its fullest. This simple, powerful book by Alison McGhee is an ode to a child's potential for a full and happy life. With evocative images and poignant lyricism, this book is perfect for mothers and children alike. Just be sure to have the tissues ready! (Ages 4 and up)

Wherever You Are My Love Will Find You

"I wanted you more than you'll ever know, so I sent love to follow wherever you go." This is another tearjerker, this one from the inimitable Nancy Tillman. The central message: Love is the greatest gift we have to give our children. It's the one thing they can carry with them each and every day. (Ages 4 and up)

Pecan Pie Baby

Beloved author Jacqueline Woodson has created a heartwarming story for kids adjusting to the idea of a new family member. Young readers will be reassured by Gia's eventual understanding that the baby won't ruin the special bond she has with her mom, and might even be a nice addition to the family. (Ages 5 and up)

In Our Mothers' House

Marmee, Meema, and their three adopted kids are just like any other happy family. In their warm, friendly home, they cook dinner together, laugh together, and dance together. Patricia Polacco's wonderful story shows that what makes a family is love, full stop. (Ages 6 and up)

Ramona and Her Mother

As always, Beverly Cleary, the beloved author who passed away in March, offers a heartwarming and true-to-life reflection of family life in this wonderful volume focusing on the complicated and loving relationship between Ramona and her mother. (Ages 8 and up)

I'm Not Crying, You're Crying!

But seriously, as we considered the myriad options for this Mother's Day roundup, there were definitely some tears flowing. These stories focusing on mothers and motherhood had us all reminiscing about the people we love the most and cherishing our fondest memories, whether from childhood or parenthood. Here's hoping you get your fix of the feels this Mother's Day.

Read more by Ashly Moore Sheldon