If you enjoy reading books by Jan Brett then you might also like the following authors:
Tomie dePaola was a beloved author and illustrator who created heartfelt stories with rich illustrations. One of his well-known books, “Strega Nona,” is about a kind witch who has a magical pasta pot.
When her helper, Big Anthony, uses the pot without her permission, things get out of control, and pasta floods the town. Fans of Jan Brett’s beautiful artwork and traditional tales might enjoy dePaola’s warm storytelling and detailed drawings that bring his characters to life.
Patricia Polacco is an author and illustrator known for creating heartfelt picture books that celebrate family, culture, and personal growth.
One of her well-loved books, “Thank You, Mr. Falker,” tells the story of a young girl who struggles with reading and feels defeated in school. Her life changes when a new teacher, Mr. Falker, helps her unlock the joy of learning and discover her true potential.
It’s a touching story that’s partly based on Polacco’s own experiences, making it feel very personal and meaningful. Readers who enjoy lush illustrations and stories with emotional depth might find her books a joy to explore.
Chris Van Allsburg is an author and illustrator known for creating imaginative and visually stunning picture books. One of his most popular works, “The Polar Express,” tells the story of a boy who boards a mysterious train on Christmas Eve, bound for the North Pole.
The book captures the magic of childhood belief and is full of rich, detailed illustrations. Fans of Jan Brett’s carefully crafted stories and artwork might enjoy exploring the whimsical and sometimes mysterious worlds in Van Allsburg’s books.
Maurice Sendak is a beloved author and illustrator known for creating magical and imaginative worlds. One of his most famous books, “Where the Wild Things Are,” tells the story of Max, a boy who wears a wolf costume and causes trouble at home.
After being sent to his room, he finds himself in a strange land filled with wild creatures who crown him their king. The story captures the wild spirit of childhood and the comfort of returning home.
Sendak’s illustrations bring the fantastical world to life, drawing readers into Max’s adventure.
Eric Carle is an author and illustrator known for his colorful, unique picture books. One of his most-loved works is “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” In this story, a tiny caterpillar hatches from an egg and begins eating his way through different foods each day of the week.
As he eats, he grows bigger and eventually transforms into a beautiful butterfly. The simple text and bold visuals make it a charming read for young children. Fans of Jan Brett’s attention to detail and love of nature may enjoy Carle’s storytelling and vibrant illustrations.
Lois Ehlert is known for her vibrant picture books that celebrate nature, creativity, and the world around us. Her book “Leaf Man” is a great example of her unique style.
It tells the story of a man made of autumn leaves who seems to be swept away by the wind to explore farms, meadows, and forests.
The illustrations are made from real leaves, cut and arranged into shapes, creating a playful visual experience that feels like holding a piece of fall in your hands.
Fans of Jan Brett’s detailed illustrations and love of nature will enjoy Ehlert’s fresh approach to storytelling.
Ezra Jack Keats was known for creating stories with vivid artwork and heartfelt moments. One of his most celebrated books, “The Snowy Day,” follows a young boy named Peter as he explores his neighborhood after a snowfall.
The story takes readers through Peter’s simple joys, like leaving footprints in the snow and experimenting with a snowball. The illustrations are bright and textured, bringing Peter’s world to life in a way that feels warm and memorable.
If you enjoy books by Jan Brett, Keats’ ability to capture the essence of a child’s wonder may offer something similar.
Beatrix Potter is a beloved author and illustrator known for her charming animal tales.
One of her most famous books, “The Tale of Peter Rabbit,” introduces readers to Peter, a mischievous little rabbit who sneaks into Mr. McGregor’s garden to snack on vegetables despite his mother’s warnings. He faces close calls and must use his wits to escape.
The story is filled with beautiful illustrations and a warm, timeless feel that will appeal to anyone who enjoys Jan Brett’s detailed and whimsical storytelling.
Robert McCloskey is an author and illustrator known for creating warm and memorable stories for children. One of his beloved books, “Make Way for Ducklings,” is about a pair of ducks searching for the perfect spot to raise their family.
They settle in Boston, where they navigate city life with the help of friendly locals. The detailed illustrations bring the story to life, showing the charm of both the ducks and the bustling city.
David Wiesner is known for creating picture books that tell imaginative stories through stunning visuals and minimal text. One of his standout books is “Flotsam,” a tale about a boy who finds an old, underwater camera washed up on the beach.
When he develops the film, he uncovers photos of an incredible underwater world filled with fantastical sea creatures and surreal scenes. The book has no words, but the detailed illustrations guide the reader through a magical adventure.
Readers who enjoy Jan Brett’s attention to detail and visual storytelling might find Wiesner’s work equally fascinating.
Barbara McClintock is a picture book author and illustrator known for her detailed artwork and classic storytelling. Fans of Jan Brett might enjoy her book “Adèle & Simon”.
Set in Paris, it follows a little boy named Simon who keeps losing his belongings as he walks home with his sister, Adèle. The illustrations are filled with rich details of Parisian streets and landmarks, pulling you into the world of the story.
Each page invites you to pause and explore the scene, making it feel like an adventure.
Margaret Wise Brown was a children’s author known for creating stories with a warm and soothing tone. One of her beloved books is “Goodnight Moon.” It’s a simple bedtime story where a little bunny says goodnight to various objects in his green room.
The book moves at a calming pace, with gentle rhymes and a rhythm that feels almost like a lullaby. The illustrations are cozy and full of small details, showing the bunny’s world as he settles in for the night.
It’s a book that feels familiar and comforting, a great pick for anyone who enjoys stories that capture the quiet magic of nightly routines.
Cynthia Rylant is an author known for her warm and heartfelt stories that often celebrate the beauty of nature and family connections. One of her books, “The Relatives Came,” tells the story of a family reunion filled with laughter, crowded spaces, and plenty of hugs.
The book captures the joy and chaos of extended family coming together for a summer visit, reminding readers of the bond that brings families close, even across miles.
Fans of Jan Brett’s storytelling may appreciate Rylant’s focus on family traditions and moments that feel both universal and personal.
Jane Yolen is an author who weaves fantasy and folklore into her stories, creating worlds that feel timeless and magical. One of her books, “Owl Moon,” is about a young girl who sets out on a nighttime walk through the snowy woods with her father.
They are searching for a great horned owl, and the journey captures the quiet beauty of nature and the bond between parent and child. The story is gentle and atmospheric, paired with stunning illustrations that bring the snowy forest to life.
It’s the kind of book that feels both comforting and full of wonder, perfect for readers who enjoy Jan Brett’s richly detailed worlds.
Brian Wildsmith was an illustrator and author known for his vibrant, detailed artwork in children’s books. His book “The Lion and the Rat” is a beautifully illustrated take on Aesop’s fable.
It tells the story of a lion who spares the life of a tiny rat, only for the rat to return the favor in an unexpected way. The book has lush, colorful images that bring the characters and setting alive on every page.