The Most Charming Picture Books About the Color Red
Red isn’t just a color—it’s an entry point into some of the strongest emotions we experience. For children, learning to identify and express their feelings is key to developing emotional intelligence. Red, with its bold intensity, is often tied to emotions like anger, passion, love, and excitement. That’s why red is such a natural fit for picture books—it helps kids recognize and navigate big feelings through engaging and relatable stories.
Beyond emotions, red has long been celebrated in cultural traditions and festivities. In Chinese culture, for example, red represents luck and prosperity, appearing prominently in Lunar New Year celebrations. It’s a color of joy and togetherness, making it central to many festive occasions around the world.
https://amzn.to/4aymy3CIn art history, red has played a profound role as well. After all, red commands attention and stirs introspection, making it the perfect color for both visual storytelling and emotional connection.
This collection of picture books about the color red brings together stories that reflect the many layers of this powerful hue. From heartfelt tales about friendship and perseverance to thoughtful explorations of culture and emotions, these books combine stunning illustrations with meaningful themes.
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The Best Illustrated Picture Books About the Color Red
Red: A Crayon’s Story
by Michael Hall
Michael Hall’s Red: A Crayon’s Story is a clever and touching tale about identity and self-discovery. The story follows a crayon labeled “red” that struggles to draw anything red, only to realize its true color is blue. Hall’s minimalist, graphic illustrations enhance the story’s humor and warmth, making it accessible to young readers. The book delivers a powerful message about embracing who you are and celebrating differences, resonating with readers of all ages. Michael Hall, also known for My Heart Is Like a Zoo, excels at blending humor and life lessons in his work.
Red
by Jan De Kinder
Jan De Kinder’s Red tells a poignant story about bullying, courage, and standing up for others. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of a child who witnesses a classmate being teased for blushing. De Kinder’s use of bold red accents throughout the illustrations underscores the emotional weight of the story, making the color itself a vital storytelling element. The book’s simple yet impactful language invites discussions about empathy and taking action in difficult situations.
De Kinder, a Belgian author and illustrator, has received international praise for his ability to tackle complex emotions with sensitivity.
The Lion and the Little Red Bird
by Elisa Kleven
In this charming picture book about the color red, a little red bird becomes curious about why a lion’s tail changes color daily. Elisa Kleven, known for her vibrant and detailed collage illustrations, uses watercolor, pastel, ink, cut paper, and lamb’s wool to create a visually captivating world.
The story highlights themes of curiosity, friendship, and the universal language of art, showing how two very different creatures can connect and find joy in shared experiences. Kleven’s work has received numerous accolades, including recognition from the American Library Association and The New York Times.
Top Picture Books About the Color Red
Red Red Red
by Polly Dunbar
Polly Dunbar’s Red Red Red is a standout among picture books about the color red, addressing toddler tantrums through the story of a little one who becomes frustrated and “sees red.” Dunbar’s expressive illustrations and gentle rhyming text capture the intensity of a child’s emotions while offering a calming strategy through counting to ten. The book provides a relatable and reassuring approach for young children learning to manage their feelings.
Dunbar, acclaimed for works like Penguin and the Tilly and Friends series, brings her signature warmth and understanding of early childhood experiences to this story.
Red and Lulu
by Matt Tavares
I’ve previously featured Red and Lulu among the most beautifully illustrated children’s books about Christmas, and it’s easy to see why.
In this heartwarming story, Matt Tavares tells the tale of two cardinals whose beloved tree is selected to be the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. When the tree is transported to New York City, Red and Lulu are separated, and Red embarks on a journey to find his companion. Tavares’s watercolor and gouache illustrations capture both the natural beauty of the countryside and the festive magic of the city.
With themes of love, perseverance, and the joy of the holiday season, Red and Lulu is a timeless treasure. Tavares, celebrated for his detailed artwork, has also received acclaim for books like Zachary’s Ball and Growing Up Pedro.
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Ruby’s Wish
by Shirin Yim Bridges, illustrated by Sophie Blackall
Based on a true story, Ruby’s Wish follows a young girl in old China who aspires to attend university, a rare opportunity for girls at the time. Ruby’s determination and love for learning set her apart in a society with traditional gender roles.
Sophie Blackall’s delicate watercolor illustrations complement the narrative, bringing Ruby’s world to life with authenticity and charm. The book conveys messages of perseverance, equality, and the importance of following one’s dreams. Shirin Yim Bridges, also known for The Umbrella Queen, shares this inspiring tale drawn from her own family history.
Cloth Lullaby: The Woven Life of Louise Bourgeois
by Amy Novesky, illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault
I’ve already highlighted Cloth Lullaby: The Woven Life of Louise Bourgeois among my favorite picture books about artists, and it deserves a special mention here too. This stunning biography tells the story of Louise Bourgeois, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. The narrative weaves together Bourgeois’s childhood memories of her mother’s tapestry work and her artistic journey, mirroring the interconnected threads of her life.
Isabelle Arsenault’s illustrations are richly textured, evoking the fabric and themes central to Bourgeois’s work. This book is a beautiful introduction to the artist’s life and a tribute to creativity, resilience, and the bonds between mother and child.
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Little Red
by Bethan Woollvin
Bethan Woollvin’s Little Red is a modern twist on the classic Little Red Riding Hood tale. With bold, minimalist illustrations in a striking palette of black, white, and red, Woollvin creates a visually engaging retelling.
Unlike the traditional version, Little Red in this story is clever and resourceful, outwitting the wolf entirely on her own. The book delivers a fresh and empowering message about independence and bravery, making it an excellent choice for young readers. Woollvin, a graduate of the Cambridge School of Art, has won numerous accolades, including the New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book Award.
Little Red Riding Hood
by Trina Schart Hyman
Trina Schart Hyman’s rendition of Little Red Riding Hood is a visually stunning take on the classic tale. Her richly detailed illustrations bring the story to life with a perfect balance of light and shadow, capturing the tension and charm of the narrative.
Staying true to the Brothers Grimm version, this adaptation retains the tale’s darker undertones while remaining suitable for children. Hyman’s art, which earned her the Caldecott Medal, is widely celebrated for its evocative storytelling, making this edition a must-have for fans of fairy tales.
The Red Tree
by Shaun Tan
Shaun Tan’s The Red Tree is a deeply moving exploration of emotions, especially loneliness and hope. The story follows a young girl navigating a series of surreal landscapes that reflect her feelings, with minimal text guiding the journey. Tan’s illustrations are intricate and imaginative, blending melancholy with a sense of wonder.
The use of the red tree as a recurring motif symbolizes renewal and optimism, culminating in a powerful, uplifting ending. This book resonates with readers of all ages, offering a poetic reminder that light can be found even in the darkest moments.
Red is Best
by Kathy Stinson, illustrated by Robin Baird Lewisby Kathy Stinson, illustrated by Robin Baird Lewis
Red is Best captures the passionate preferences of a young child who insists that everything red is simply better—red mittens, red socks, red ribbons. Kathy Stinson’s playful and authentic dialogue perfectly captures the perspective of a determined child, while Robin Baird Lewis’s soft, expressive illustrations bring warmth to the story.
The book is a joyful celebration of individuality, self-expression, and the simple yet strong opinions of children. First published in 1982, Red is Best remains a timeless favorite for families.
Big Red Lollipop
by Rukhsana Khan, illustrated by Sophie Blackall
Big Red Lollipop is a heartfelt and relatable story about sibling dynamics, cultural differences, and forgiveness. When Rubina is forced to take her younger sister, Sana, to a birthday party, trouble ensues, culminating in a red lollipop that causes friction between the sisters. Rukhsana Khan’s storytelling is authentic and engaging, drawing from her own experiences as an immigrant child.
Sophie Blackall’s warm and lively illustrations perfectly capture the humor and tension of the story, as well as the rich cultural details. This book offers a valuable lesson about family and understanding, making it a favorite among readers.
Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China
by Ed Young
Ed Young’s Lon Po Po is a Chinese version of Little Red Riding Hood and a standout among picture books about the color red. Young, a celebrated author and illustrator, has dedicated his career to blending Eastern and Western storytelling traditions. With over 80 books to his name and numerous accolades, including the Caldecott Medal, his work is renowned for its depth and artistic innovation.
In Lon Po Po, Young reimagines the classic tale with a darker, more suspenseful tone. The story follows three siblings as they cleverly outwit a wolf disguised as their grandmother. Young’s haunting, textured illustrations use a palette of soft pastels and striking reds, heightening the tension and drama while reflecting the emotional stakes of the story.
The book, which won the Caldecott Medal for its groundbreaking artistry, is as rich in cultural significance as it is visually captivating. Lon Po Po serves as both a perfect introduction to Chinese folklore and a fresh perspective on a well-loved tale, showcasing Ed Young’s masterful ability to bring stories to life through art and narrative.
Barbara Throws a Wobbler
by Nadia Shireen
Barbara Throws a Wobbler is a clever and humorous story about managing big emotions. Barbara, a grumpy cat, experiences a “wobbler” (a tantrum) that grows into a comically monstrous character. Nadia Shireen’s bold, expressive illustrations make the wobbler’s presence both hilarious and relatable, offering a lighthearted way to talk about feelings.
The story provides practical and age-appropriate strategies for calming down, making it a fun yet meaningful tool for children. Shireen’s knack for blending humor with emotional insight makes this book a standout in early childhood literature.
Red Red Red
by Valeri Gorbachev
What better title for a post about picture books about the color red than Red Red Red?
Valeri Gorbachev’s story is a sweet and simple tale about patience and curiosity. As Turtle rushes to share some exciting news with his friends, his bright red balloon becomes a point of fascination for all. Gorbachev’s gentle watercolor illustrations and expressive animal characters bring warmth and humor to the narrative.
The story emphasizes the value of slowing down and appreciating small joys, making it a perfect read for younger children. Gorbachev, known for his tender and whimsical storytelling, has created another delightful tale that resonates with families.
Did you find this post helpful or inspiring? Have you read any of these books or have others to recommend? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your favorites with #ArtSproutsBooks and tag me @art_sprouts_art. Don’t forget to pin this post for later and follow me on Pinterest for more book recommendations and inspiring art activities!
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