Exploring the natural world, embarking on grand adventures, and using their imagination—these are the experiences that captivate children and fuel their creativity. Picture books are a powerful tool to engage young readers and spark their curiosity about nature, adventure, and the boundless possibilities of imagination. In this article, we’ll explore amazing picture books for children about nature, adventure, and imagination, and how they inspire kids to dream, explore, and grow.
Summer and Picture Books: The Perfect Pair
Every day is the perfect occasion for reading, but summer is often an ideal and unscheduled time for reading, being outdoors, and exploring new activities. For some kids, trying new things is exciting, and they enjoy immersing themselves in a new experience. Others might feel more hesitant. Reading about new adventures and other kids’ experiences might open the door to a more successful first attempt. And there are many adventures that can only be reached through the pages of a book!
Books about nature, adventure, and imagination are perfect for young readers wanting to try something new and build valuable social-emotional skills along the way.
All You Can Imagine
Written and illustrated by Bernardo Marçolla
The world around you is easy to access when you use your imagination! All You Can Imagine encourages children to tap into their creativity and explore the endless possibilities that imagination provides. It’s an adventure that proves the world is full of surprises—especially when we learn to see it with fresh eyes. This book offers a beautiful message about the power of imagination and creativity to unlock new worlds.
Bee Love (Can Be Hard)
Written by Alan Page and Kamie Page, illustrated by David Geister
This sweet story of intergenerational relationships and overcoming fears highlights the important role of bees in our lives. As the protagonist navigates challenges and learns to appreciate the value of bees in the world, children will see the connection between nature and community. A perfect book for encouraging children to understand the environment while tackling common fears and the beauty of nature.
Fatima’s Great Outdoors
Written by Ambreen Tariq, illustrated by Stevie Lewis
It will be Fatima’s first camping trip, and she has many adventures ahead of her! Fatima’s Great Outdoors introduces young readers to the joys of camping and outdoor exploration. Fatima learns about nature’s beauty while facing her own uncertainties, making this a relatable story for children hesitant about trying new things. It's a great resource to inspire kids to step outside and enjoy nature.
Get Outdoors: A Mindfulness Guide to Noticing Nature
Written by Paul Christelis, illustrated by Elisa Paganelli
This easy-to-access guide for young readers helps them enjoy nature with intention. Get Outdoors is more than just a book; it's a tool for cultivating mindfulness and a deeper connection with the natural world. Through simple activities and engaging visuals, children are encouraged to slow down, take notice, and appreciate the small wonders of the outdoors.
Hiking Day
Written by Anne Rockwell, illustrated by Lizzy Rockwell
It’s the first hike up in the mountains for one young girl and her family. Readers delight with her as she encounters so many new sights. Hiking Day is a lovely introduction to hiking and outdoor adventure, showing the excitement and the beauty of exploring the natural world. Children will relate to the young protagonist as she navigates her first hike, encouraging them to try out hiking for themselves.
I Want to Win! A Book About Being a Good Sport
Written by Sue Graves, illustrated by Emanuela Carletti and Desideria Guicciardini
Bella always wants to win and struggles with new activities, as well as her emotions, in this approachable story. I Want to Win! teaches kids the importance of sportsmanship, perseverance, and handling challenges gracefully. It’s a wonderful way to introduce children to the values of adventure and learning through activities, both in nature and everyday life.
Jayden’s Secret Ingredient
Written by Mélina Mangal, illustrated by Ken Daley
In Jayden’s Secret Ingredient, Jayden enjoys spending time outdoors and gardening with his friend Mr. Curtis, but hesitates when it comes to tasting their harvest. When neighbors are invited to share the garden's scarlet runner beans, Jayden must decide whether to step out of his comfort zone and try something new. This sequel to Jayden’s Impossible Garden explores themes of friendship, community, and personal growth, while also encouraging children to explore nature, gardening, and cooking.
Jayden’s Impossible Garden
Written by Mélina Mangal, illustrated by Ken Daley
Jayden wants his mother to see the beauty of nature in the city. When he joins forces with an elderly neighbor, who knows what will happen? Jayden’s Impossible Garden shows children how imagination and collaboration can transform even the smallest spaces into something beautiful. This story highlights the importance of community and connection with nature, teaching children that adventure can take place anywhere.
Ollie Outside
Written by Michael Oberschneider, illustrated by Guy Wolek
In this perfect-for-summer read, Ollie shows his family how to have fun outside, away from screens. Ollie Outside is a vibrant story about the joys of outdoor exploration. It encourages kids to step away from technology and discover the many exciting adventures the outdoors has to offer. This book is a great resource for parents looking to inspire outdoor play and imagination.
The Sandcastle That Lola Built
Written by Megan Maynor, illustrated by Kate Berube
In this retelling of The House That Jack Built, a young girl builds a sandcastle with found objects and friends in a tale of cooperation. The Sandcastle That Lola Built is not just about creating something beautiful in the sand—it’s about teamwork, creativity, and the joy of spending time outdoors with friends. This fun story is perfect for children who love to use their imaginations in collaborative settings.
Where’s Rodney?
Written by Carmen Bogan, illustrated by Floyd Cooper
When Rodney finally gets to go to a real park, he is transformed. Join Rodney on his journey in this beautiful book illustrated by the late Floyd Cooper. Where’s Rodney? shows children how much a simple change of scenery can open their minds and hearts. Through this heartwarming story, children are encouraged to embrace new environments and find joy in everyday adventures.
How These Books Spark Adventure, Imagination, and a Love of Nature
These picture books for children about nature, adventure, and imagination provide a gateway to experiences that children might not have encountered yet. Not only do they entertain and educate, but they also promote life skills such as resilience, creativity, and an appreciation for the outdoors. Here's how these themes contribute to children's development:
- Encouraging Outdoor Exploration: Books like Fatima’s Great Outdoors and Get Outdoors help children see the excitement in exploring nature. They teach that nature can be an exciting place to learn and discover new things.
- Building Empathy and Cooperation: Many of these stories, such as The Sandcastle That Lola Built and Jayden’s Impossible Garden, emphasize the importance of teamwork, sharing, and understanding others' perspectives. These lessons can easily translate into real-life situations, helping children build empathy and social skills.
- Fostering Creativity: Books like All You Can Imagine and Ollie Outside encourage children to use their imaginations to create adventures and explore new ideas. These stories empower kids to see the world around them as a canvas for their creativity.
- Promoting Physical Activity and Outdoor Play: By reading stories like Hiking Day and I Want to Win!, children are inspired to step outside, engage in physical activities, and enjoy the natural world in an active and fun way.
Summer is the perfect time to dive into stories of adventure, imagination, and the wonders of nature. The books listed above provide endless opportunities for children to learn, explore, and grow. Whether they are hiking through the mountains, building a sandcastle, or imagining a world full of endless possibilities, these stories encourage children to engage with the world around them in meaningful ways.
By reading these books, children can develop a lifelong love for nature, adventure, and imagination, setting the stage for a summer filled with fun and learning. So grab a few of these books and get ready for a season of discovery!
