10 Children’s Books About Art and Creativity

I love creative endeavors… Especially when I get to do them with my favorite little artist.  Many times, we take our cues for learning and art activities from books.  Here are a few of our favorite inspirational books about art and creativity for kids.

Ish by Peter H. Reynolds

The book tells of a young boy named Ramon who struggles to create the “perfect” drawings, especially under the criticism of an older sibling.  It isn’t until his little sister points out the value in his art that Ramon realizes his true talents.

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
Vashti is convinced that she can’t draw.  With encouragement from her teacher, Vashti begins to explore all the creative things she can do with just one dot. View our activity for this book here

Sky Color by Peter H. Reynolds
Marisol is asked to help paint a mural in her school.  But when she can’t find the blue paint, she’s at a loss as to what she should use to paint the sky.  She then has to look for inspiration other than the stereotypical idea of what the sky should look like.

Dog Loves Drawing by Louise Yates
A book lover named Dog receives a blank book in the mail.  He fills it with all types of drawings that he imagines himself in… Including a monster he escapes from with the stroke of a pencil.

A Piece of Chalk by Jennifer A. Ericsson
A little girl with a brand new box on chalk creates drawings.  But when a rainstorm interrupts and ruins them, a new revelation is found.

Crafty Chloe by Kelly DiPuchio
A great example on how the best gifts truly come from the heart and that good can prevail.  Chloe wants to buy the latest trendy doll for her friend’s birthday, but when a snooty girl beats her to it, Chloe is at a loss as to what to give.  That’s when she realizes that she can use her skills to create the best present of all.

Art & Max by David Weisner
A brilliant piece of work featuring two reptile named Art and Max.  Art stands at the easel, painting a masterpiece while Max looks on, longing to paint.  Art’s invitation to Max to try painting leads to an explosive problem that little Max must solve. View our activity for this book here.

Bridget’s Beret by Tom Lichtenheld
This book encourages children to rely on the artist within.  Bridget loves her beret and thinks that she’s only able to create with it.  When a gust of wind blows it away, Bridget must find a hat of some sorts that gives her that same creative feeling.  It isn’t until her little sister needs help with a lemonade stand sign that Bridget finds her artistic mojo.

I Absolutely Must Do Coloring Now or Painting or Drawing by Lauren Child
Perfect for young readers who are fans of the Charlie and Lola series and also love creative endeavors.  Illustrated in all black and white, the book gives many prompts for readers/illustrators to add drawings or colors to the pictures.