A Case for Rhyming Picture Books
There’s a particular kind of joy that comes from a truly excellent rhyming picture book. The words land just right, rhythm carries the listener forward, and page turns feel inevitable. There is a certain sense of predictability in the language and cadence. For children, this helps to build early literacy, memory, and confidence. For adults, it transforms read-aloud time into something shared and musical, turning simple words into a playful, musical experience.
In recent years, picture book authors have continued to prove that rhyme done well is far from gimmicky. While classics from authors like Dr. Seuss paved the way, books today use meter and sound in service of story, emotion, and meaning. Below is a curated list of beautifully written rhyming picture books published in the last five years, followed by a few of my personal favorites that show why rhyme works so powerfully.
Recent Rhyming Picture Books Worth Celebrating
Sleep Tight, Disgusting Blob by Huw Aaron
This gleefully irreverent bedtime story pairs affectionate parenting with delightfully disgusting characters and a genuinely soothing nighttime rhythm. The humor is perfectly pitched for young children, turning the usual bedtime resistance into laughs. Its clever wordplay and playful illustrations make it an instant read-aloud favorite for families.
One Day at the Bottom of the Deep Blue Sea by Daniel Bernstrom
A cumulative, fast-paced rhyming adventure that plunges readers deeper into the ocean with every turn of the page. Its repetition and rhythm make it ideal for early readers, and the richly detailed illustrations encourage children to explore underwater life. The story’s pacing keeps listeners engaged, making it a perfect read-aloud choice for classrooms and bedtime alike.
Over in the Garden by Janna Matthies
A bright counting book based on a classic rhyme, full of colorful outdoor joy. It encourages observation of nature and introduces children to numbers and patterns in an organic way. The rhythmic text paired with vibrant illustrations makes it a fun and interactive read-aloud for young learners.
Dinosaur, Dinosaur, Say Good Night by Sanja Rešček
A bedtime book with prehistoric charm and soft, repetitive rhyme. The gentle rhythm lulls children toward sleep, while the colorful dinosaurs make it entertaining and engaging. Repetition builds confidence for early readers and encourages participation as they anticipate the next page’s rhyme.
Red Canoe Shows Up at Two! by Victoria Allenby
A playful look at boats, colors, and time for rising readers. Its rhymes flow naturally, and the bright illustrations provide plenty of detail for discussion. Children will enjoy predicting which boat comes next, making it a fun and interactive storytime pick.
I Don’t Wanna Hibernate by Anna Ouchchy
A funny, energetic rhyming story about a little groundhog who just isn’t ready to sleep through winter, perfect for read-aloud giggles. Children will relate to resisting bedtime, and parents will enjoy the clever humor. The illustrations are expressive and playful, bringing each scene to life and supporting the rhythmic text. And the refrain adds a fun element that encourages listener participation in the story telling.
Dozens of Doughnuts by Carrie Finison
A delightful, cumulative rhyming tale of doughnuts, counting, and silliness—perfect for young readers who love repetition and fun rhythms. The book encourages counting practice, pattern recognition, and participation as kids anticipate each new flavor or character. Grace Lin’s vibrant illustrations make each page visually engaging and playful.
Three Rhythmic Classics That Endure
While there are thousands of rhyming picture books available today, these three stand out as some of my personal favorites. Each has endured because it combines playful language, memorable rhythm, and rich illustrations that invite repeated readings. They showcase the power of rhyme to engage young readers, reinforce early literacy skills, and turn every read-aloud into a shared, joyful experience. From soothing bedtime fare to lyrical explorations of the world, these classics continue to delight children and adults alike, proving that well-crafted rhyme never goes out of style.
Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site by Sherri Duskey Rinker
A bedtime favorite about hardworking construction vehicles. The soothing rhyme helps wind down energetic children, while the playful machinery captures their imagination. Each vehicle has its own personality, making the story both educational and entertaining.
All the World by Liz Garton Scanlon
A lyrical celebration of all the small and big moments that make up a life. The rhymes gently connect the concepts of family, nature, and community. The illustrations are warm and expansive, inviting readers to explore the world around them while feeling a sense of comfort and belonging.
Water Is Water by Miranda Paul
A nonfiction rhyming exploration of the water cycle. Children will learn how water moves through the environment while enjoying the musicality of the text. This clever combination of education and rhyme makes it engaging for classrooms and homes alike.
Rhyme is more than wordplay—it’s a bridge between imagination and learning, turning ordinary words into moments children will remember forever. If you would like to learn more about how to write a children’s book, studying these rhyming picture books can provide invaluable insight into pacing, meter, and storytelling techniques that captivate young readers.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links to Amazon and Bookshop.org. Purchases made through these links may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Bookshop.org purchases support independent bookstores.
Want to write a children’s book? Contact me below to discuss your project!
