Jan Brett is a beloved children's author and illustrator known for detailed, charming illustrations. Her stories, including The Mitten and Gingerbread Baby, often feature animal characters and richly decorated pages that captivate young readers and parents alike.
If you enjoy reading books by Jan Brett then you might also like the following authors:
If you enjoy Jan Brett’s stories filled with beautiful illustrations and rich traditions, you might also like the books of Tomie dePaola.
He is best known for his charming storytelling and colorful illustrations that explore folklore, family life, and diverse cultural backgrounds. A good example is Strega Nona, one of his most beloved books.
This folk-style tale is set in an Italian village, where Strega Nona—Grandma Witch—owns a magic pasta pot. When her helper Big Anthony decides to try his hand at magic without permission, delicious chaos spreads through town.
Tomie dePaola’s artwork, filled with warmth and humor, complements his delightful storytelling and introduces readers to a vibrant world they’ll remember long after finishing the book.
Beatrix Potter is a beloved storyteller whose charming illustrations and delightful animal characters have captivated readers for generations. If you enjoy the engaging animal stories and beautiful illustrations by Jan Brett, you might appreciate Potter’s classic tales as well.
One great story to start with is The Tale of Peter Rabbit. It follows the adventures of a curious young rabbit named Peter who sneaks into Mr. McGregor’s garden despite warnings from his mother.
There, he finds delicious vegetables, encounters unexpected dangers, and faces a chase that keeps readers eager to turn the pages. Potter clearly portrays Peter’s lively spirit, innocence, and mischief.
Her warm, detailed illustrations bring Jardins and cottages vividly to life, and her gentle storytelling invites young and old readers alike into a comforting, timeless world.
If you enjoy books by Jan Brett, you might also appreciate Gail Gibbons. She has a wonderful talent for creating colorful, informative picture books that explain the world to young readers. Her book The Pumpkin Book is a great example of how engaging nonfiction can be.
This cheerful story takes you through the life cycle of pumpkins, from seed to harvest. Gibbons includes clear illustrations and simple explanations, making the natural world accessible and exciting for children.
Readers learn about the different varieties of pumpkins and their uses, along with fun facts that make pumpkins even more fascinating. Fans of Brett’s detailed storytelling and vibrant illustrations may find Gail Gibbons a delightful addition to their reading list.
Readers who enjoy Jan Brett’s imaginative illustrations and delightful storytelling may appreciate the charming children’s books by Steven Kellogg. Kellogg is known for his vibrant, detailed illustrations that often contain playful humor and warm, endearing stories.
One of his best-loved books is The Day Jimmy’s Boa Ate the Wash, which follows a funny and increasingly chaotic school field trip to a farm.
Through a child’s recounting of events, Kellogg builds humor out of each mishap—especially when Jimmy’s pet boa constrictor accidentally gets loose, causing one absurd scenario after another.
Like Brett, Kellogg’s lively pictures and engaging style make each page entertaining for young readers.
Readers who enjoy Jan Brett’s beautifully detailed illustrations and classic storytelling might also appreciate the work of Trina Schart Hyman.
Hyman illustrated numerous beloved children’s books, often retelling familiar stories with a fresh approach and lush, expressive drawings. One great example is Saint George and the Dragon, a book that earned her the Caldecott Medal.
It vividly retells the legendary tale of brave Saint George who ventures out to confront a fearsome dragon threatening a kingdom.
Hyman brings the story to life through intricate visual details and dramatic, emotion-filled illustrations that capture each scene’s intensity and beauty.
If you’re drawn to the richness of folklore and fairy tales told through captivating imagery, Trina Schart Hyman’s books deserve a place on your shelf.
If you enjoy Jan Brett’s beautifully detailed illustrations and gentle storytelling, you might also appreciate Barbara Cooney. Cooney creates charming, inviting worlds that readers of all ages can treasure.
Her book Miss Rumphius tells the lovely story of Alice Rumphius, a woman who dreams of traveling the world and eventually settles near the sea.
She sets out to fulfill her grandfather’s advice—to leave the world more beautiful—and her journey results in something surprising and wonderful for her entire community. Cooney’s vibrant illustrations and heartfelt message make Miss Rumphius a story worth discovering.
Kevin Henkes is a children’s author and illustrator known for his gentle storytelling and colorful, expressive artwork. Readers who enjoy Jan Brett’s detailed and thoughtful illustrations might appreciate Henkes’ comforting stories for younger audiences.
In his book Chrysanthemum, he tells the story of a little mouse named Chrysanthemum who loves her unique name. However, when she enters school, her unusual name causes her trouble with classmates.
The story beautifully portrays how Chrysanthemum learns to embrace what makes her special. Henkes’ engaging writing, along with his charming illustrations, captures children’s emotions and everyday experiences with warmth and empathy.
Rosemary Wells is an author and illustrator known for children’s picture books that blend delightful characters and imaginative storytelling. If you enjoy Jan Brett’s heartwarming stories, you might also appreciate Wells’ book Max’s Chocolate Chicken.
In this charming tale, Max and his sister Ruby go on an Easter egg hunt where the prize is a chocolate chicken. Ruby is determined and methodical, but Max’s playful impatience adds humor and unexpected surprises to their adventure.
Wells’ whimsical artwork complements the warmth and gentle humor of the story, creating an enjoyable reading experience for children and adults alike.
Readers who enjoy Jan Brett’s beautifully illustrated animal adventures might appreciate Mercer Mayer’s delightful children’s books. Mayer creates charming characters and stories that engage young readers with humor and warmth.
One book to explore is There’s a Nightmare in My Closet, a lighthearted tale about a young boy who bravely confronts the monster hiding inside his closet. Filled with heart and gentle humor, Mayer’s storytelling helps children find courage in unexpected ways.
The charming illustrations combined with the reassuring narrative style make Mercer Mayer’s books a pleasure for readers who admire Jan Brett’s imaginative storytelling.
Readers who enjoy Jan Brett’s detailed illustrations and warm storytelling will likely appreciate Eric Carle’s charming picture books. Carle is known for his vibrant collage-style art and gentle, playful stories. One of his most beloved works is The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
This classic tells the story of a little caterpillar who munches through a variety of tasty foods before transforming into a beautiful butterfly. Young readers enjoy the bright illustrations and simple, engaging text.
Carle’s books introduce children to nature and life cycles in a joyful, accessible way.
If you enjoy Jan Brett’s charming storytelling and beautiful, detailed illustrations, you might also appreciate Arnold Lobel. Lobel is famous for creating warm and gentle stories paired with lovely, comforting artwork.
His book Frog and Toad Are Friends brings together five sweet, easy-to-read adventures about two best pals, Frog and Toad. Each tale highlights kindness, friendship, and everyday joys, from the experience of waiting for a letter to the bravery needed to overcome fears.
This gentle storytelling and delightful art style make Lobel’s work appealing to anyone fond of Brett’s cozy approach.
Maurice Sendak is a beloved author and illustrator, known for whimsical stories that explore the wonders and adventures of childhood.
Readers who enjoy Jan Brett’s lively illustrations and imaginative tales will likely appreciate Sendak’s classic book Where the Wild Things Are.
The story follows a boy named Max who, sent to bed without supper, sails away to a land ruled by fantastical creatures called the Wild Things. Max becomes their mischievous king, leading playful romps beneath the moonlight before deciding to journey home again.
With detailed illustrations that capture both the excitement and tenderness of childhood imagination, Sendak’s book invites readers into enchanting worlds children create in their minds.
Leo Lionni was an author and illustrator loved for his imaginative storytelling and beautiful collage illustrations. Readers who enjoy Jan Brett’s detailed, colorful art and thoughtful narratives often find joy in Lionni’s charming tales.
One of his standout books is Frederick, a gentle story about a mouse named Frederick, who spends his days gathering sunshine, colors, and words rather than the usual provisions his family collects for winter.
When the colder days come, it’s Frederick’s unique collection that brings warmth and comfort to his fellow mice. This book offers themes of creativity and community, complemented beautifully by Lionni’s distinctive illustrations.
Readers who enjoy Jan Brett’s charming illustrations and comforting stories will find Petra Mathers’ books equally delightful. Petra Mathers creates picture books filled with warmth, humor, and gentle life lessons.
Her book Lottie’s New Beach Towel follows Lottie, a cheerful chicken who receives an eye-catching new beach towel. Excited by her gift, Lottie uses the towel in unexpected ways, showing a sweet blend of creativity and kindness.
Mathers’ vivid watercolor illustrations capture the whimsy of her characters and settings, inviting readers into Lottie’s world by the sea.
Those fond of animals, gentle adventures, and stories about friendship will certainly appreciate Petra Mathers’ thoughtful storytelling and appealing art style.
Lisbeth Zwerger is an Austrian illustrator celebrated for her imaginative style and the dreamlike quality of her artwork. If you enjoy the detailed and whimsical illustrations found in Jan Brett’s books, Zwerger’s fairytale worlds might capture your interest too.
Her illustrated version of Alice in Wonderland brings Lewis Carroll’s classic tale to life through delicate watercolors and enchanting scenes.
Zwerger’s art invites readers to linger on each page, offering fresh perspectives on beloved characters like the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit, and Cheshire Cat. Her thoughtful interpretation gives a unique charm and depth to this timeless story.