Lane Smith makes picture books that are truly unique. His work is funny, visually inventive, and wonderfully strange. Consider “The Stinky Cheese Man” with its fractured tales or “It’s a Book”, a clever look at our digital world.
If you enjoy his particular mix of humor, art, and stories that work for kids and adults, you may want to discover other authors with a similar style. This article will introduce you to some.
Jon Klassen is an author and illustrator known for his clever, understated storytelling style. His book, “I Want My Hat Back,” is about a bear who has lost his hat and asks other animals if they’ve seen it.
The dialogue is simple, but the humor comes from the characters’ expressions and a twist some readers might not see coming. Klassen’s work appeals to fans of Lane Smith because of the way it balances humor with a touch of darker, deeper themes beneath the surface.
His art, often minimal but expressive, adds another layer to the story.
Oliver Jeffers is an illustrator and writer known for creating heartfelt, imaginative picture books that connect with readers of all ages. One of his standout works is “Lost and Found.” The story is about a boy who discovers a penguin outside his door one day.
Believing the penguin is lost, he sets out to return it to its home. As they travel across the sea together in a small rowboat, he begins to discover that the penguin might have a deeper reason for showing up at his door.
With soft, expressive illustrations and moments of quiet humor, the story gently explores themes of friendship and belonging.
Chris Van Allsburg is a storyteller and illustrator known for creating unique and imaginative picture books. One of his most famous works, “The Polar Express,” takes readers on a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.
The story follows a young boy who doubts Santa Claus, but through the journey, he experiences a heartwarming adventure that leaves him believing in the magic of the holiday. Van Allsburg’s illustrations bring the story to life with a dream-like atmosphere.
Mo Willems is a fantastic author and illustrator known for his simple yet expressive storytelling. If you enjoy Lane Smith’s work, you might like Willems’ sense of humor and charm.
One of his popular books, “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!”, features a hilariously persistent pigeon who dreams of driving a bus. The pigeon talks directly to the reader, pleading and coming up with increasingly silly reasons to get behind the wheel.
It’s a fun and interactive story that grabs kids’ attention while feeling completely natural. Willems uses bold, playful artwork that pairs perfectly with the text.
Mac Barnett writes unique and playful stories that often surprise readers with their creativity and charm. One of his books, “Extra Yarn,” tells the story of a girl named Annabelle who finds a box of yarn that never runs out.
She starts knitting colorful sweaters for everyone and everything in her gray town, transforming it completely. The book combines a heartfelt narrative with whimsical illustrations that give it a magical feel.
Fans of Lane Smith might enjoy the blend of humor and warmth in Barnett’s storytelling.
Shaun Tan is an artist and writer known for his beautifully illustrated books that blend imagination with everyday themes.
One of his standout works is “The Arrival,” a wordless graphic novel that tells the story of a man leaving his home country to seek a better life in a strange and surreal new world.
The landscapes feel otherworldly, and the creatures the man encounters add to the sense of wonder. Tan’s illustrations create an emotional journey, pulling readers into the fears, hopes, and discoveries of starting fresh in an unfamiliar place.
David Wiesner is an author and illustrator known for creating picture books that tell stories with little or no text. His book “Tuesday” is a great example of his style. The story begins with frogs floating on lily pads and taking flight into a small town at night.
The illustrations are vivid and full of quirky details, letting the images carry the entire narrative. It’s imaginative and fun, making it easy to get caught up in the wild, unexpected adventure.
William Steig was an author and illustrator known for creating unique and imaginative stories that often have a playful charm. One of his books, “Doctor De Soto,” tells the story of a mouse dentist who treats all sorts of animals, big and small.
Doctor De Soto and his wife are clever and cautious, especially when a fox comes in with a toothache. Despite knowing the fox might try to eat them, they decide to help. The story has wit and humor, with characters who feel lively and resourceful.
Readers who enjoy Lane Smith’s quirky illustrations and surreal worlds might appreciate Steig’s creative and memorable storytelling.
Peter Brown is an author and illustrator who creates stories filled with wit and heart. In his book, “The Wild Robot,” he tells the story of Roz, a robot who washes ashore on a remote island.
Roz must figure out how to survive while forming connections with the animals around her. The book blends adventure and emotion, with moments that show how Roz learns from her new world.
If you enjoy imaginative stories with a focus on character and growth, Peter Brown is worth exploring.
Maurice Sendak was an author and illustrator known for his imaginative storytelling and distinctive illustrations. One of his best-known books is “Where the Wild Things Are.” It tells the story of Max, a boy who feels misunderstood at home.
After being sent to his room, Max’s world transforms, and he sails to an island where wild creatures crown him their king. The story combines adventure with moments of heartfelt emotion, creating a world full of wonder and discovery.
Readers who enjoy Lane Smith’s creativity might find Sendak’s work equally captivating.
Tomie dePaola was a writer and illustrator known for creating heartfelt and visually striking children’s books. One of his standout works, “Strega Nona,” follows a kindhearted woman who owns a magical pasta pot.
When her helper, Big Anthony, uses the pot without knowing how to stop it, chaos unfolds as the town is covered in pasta. The story blends humor and charm, paired with dePaola’s signature colorful illustrations.
Fans of Lane Smith might enjoy Tomie dePaola’s creative storytelling and unique art style.
Sophie Blackall is an illustrator and author known for creating books with warmth and charm. One of her books, “Hello Lighthouse,” tells the story of a lighthouse keeper and the life he leads in the tower by the sea.
The book captures the routines of his work, the companionship he finds, and how the world outside changes over time. The illustrations have a timeless feel and draw you into the secluded but serene life of the lighthouse.
Fans of Lane Smith’s imaginative and heartfelt storytelling might find a similar appeal in Blackall’s work.
Anthony Browne is a British author and illustrator. His books often stand out because of their imaginative themes and detailed illustrations.
One of his well-loved books, “The Tunnel,” tells the story of a brother and sister who don’t get along but are forced to work together when an ordinary tunnel leads to a strange, mysterious world.
The book explores emotions and relationships through surreal images and an odd, dream-like setting.
Thacher Hurd is an author and illustrator known for creating lively and imaginative children’s books. One of his well-loved stories is “Zoom City.” The book captures the excitement of a fast-paced world filled with zooming cars, honking horns, and bustling streets.
Hurd’s colorful illustrations bring the city to life, where dogs driving cars add a quirky and fun twist. The story creates a sense of energy and motion that feels unique. For readers who enjoy Lane Smith’s creative and bold storytelling, Hurd’s work offers a similar charm.
Eric Rohmann is an author and illustrator who creates picture books that draw readers in with their charm and visual storytelling. One of his books, “My Friend Rabbit,” tells the tale of a rabbit with a knack for causing trouble despite his good intentions.
When he accidentally causes a toy plane to get stuck in a tree, he comes up with a wild plan to set things right. The illustrations are vivid and expressive, carrying the playful tone of the story.
Fans of Lane Smith might enjoy Rohmann’s unique way of blending humor and heart into his work.