If you enjoy reading books by Mac Barnett then you might also like the following authors:
Jon Klassen creates picture books with a style that’s both minimal and full of quiet humor. He often weaves little dramas into simple situations, using animals to explore themes of trust, mischief, and consequence.
One of his books, “I Want My Hat Back,” tells the story of a bear searching for his lost hat. The animals he meets are unhelpful—or a little too helpful—but his determination keeps the story going. The dry humor in the bear’s journey is what makes it so fun.
If you’re into Mac Barnett’s witty storytelling, Klassen’s work feels like a natural fit.
Oliver Jeffers creates picture books that blend humor and heart in ways that stick with you. One of his standout works is “Lost and Found.” It’s about a boy who discovers a penguin at his door. The boy assumes the penguin is lost and decides to help him return to the South Pole.
Their journey is full of quiet moments and adventure, and it turns into a story about friendship in the most unexpected places. If you enjoy Mac Barnett’s thoughtful storytelling with layers of humor, Oliver Jeffers might feel like a perfect find.
Adam Rex writes funny and creative stories that blend the everyday with the wildly unexpected. His book “The True Meaning of Smekday” is about a girl named Tip who teams up with an alien named J. Lo after Earth is invaded.
Together, they go on a road trip in a hovercar while trying to save the planet. The humor is sharp, and the characters are unforgettable. If you enjoy Mac Barnett’s sense of fun and cleverness, Rex’s books are worth exploring.
Mo Willems is a children’s author known for his playful and creative stories. One of his fun books is “We Are in a Book!” It’s about two characters, Elephant and Piggie, who realize they are inside a book and can even communicate with the reader.
They have a blast making the reader say silly words, enjoying the unique experience. It’s a story full of humor and charm, with illustrations that make every moment unforgettable. Fans of Mac Barnett’s clever and interactive style will find a lot to love here.
Dav Pilkey is an author known for creating stories packed with humor and wild imagination. One of his most popular books, “Dog Man,” follows a half-dog, half-man police officer who battles bad guys while trying to do the right thing.
The story builds on silly situations and quirky characters, like Petey the cat, who often gets into trouble. It’s a fun read that doesn’t take itself too seriously and is loaded with chaos and laughs.
Fans of Mac Barnett’s playful storytelling might enjoy the same kind of wit in Pilkey’s books.
Peter Brown writes stories that blend humor and heart in a way that sticks with you. His book, “The Wild Robot,” introduces Roz, a robot who wakes up alone on an island.
She learns to survive in the wild, builds connections with the animals, and faces challenges as she tries to figure out her purpose. The story has a mix of adventure and emotion, with moments that explore the bond between technology and nature.
Fans of Mac Barnett might enjoy the clever storytelling and warm characters.
Emily Gravett is a talented author and illustrator known for her playful and clever picture books. One of her standout works is “Wolves.” In this story, a rabbit borrows a book about wolves from the library, but as the rabbit reads, the topic starts to feel a bit too real.
The mix of humor and unexpected twists makes it perfect for readers who enjoy books that keep them on their toes, similar to something by Mac Barnett. Gravett’s illustrations bring the story to life in a way that feels fresh and fun.
Chris Van Dusen is known for creating lively, imaginative picture books that are a lot of fun to read. One of his books, “If I Built a Car,” tells the story of a boy named Jack, who daydreams about designing the ultimate car.
His car would have everything from a pool to a snack bar and even the ability to fly. The illustrations are colorful and bold, helping bring Jack’s wild ideas to life. It’s a great pick for readers who enjoy quirky stories with big ideas, similar to some of Mac Barnett’s work.
Elisha Cooper is an author and illustrator known for picture books that celebrate everyday moments. One of his books, “Big Cat, Little Cat,” tells the story of two cats who share a home. The older cat teaches the younger one about life until one day, the routine changes.
It’s a heartfelt story about love and loss, all captured with simple yet expressive illustrations. Fans of Mac Barnett might appreciate Cooper’s knack for capturing meaningful moments in understated ways.
Nick Bruel is an author and illustrator known for creating stories that are funny and unexpected. One of his popular books is “Bad Kitty.”
It’s about a house cat named Kitty who changes from sweet to naughty after her owner brings home healthy food instead of her favorite treats. The book goes through Kitty’s wild antics and the chaos she causes in protest, written in a clever, alphabetical format.
The humor and mischief give it a playful energy that fans of Mac Barnett might enjoy.
Tom Lichtenheld is an author and illustrator whose books often mix humor with heart, creating stories that are fun to read aloud.
One of his books, “Steam Train, Dream Train,” takes readers on a whimsical nighttime journey as a train is loaded with all sorts of unexpected cargo, from ice cream to dinosaurs. The imaginative details make the world feel alive, and the rhymes feel natural, not forced.
If you enjoy Mac Barnett’s playful storytelling, Lichtenheld’s work might hit the same sweet spot.
Andrea Beaty writes children’s books that mix adventure and humor with clever storytelling. One of her well-loved works is “Iggy Peck, Architect.” The story follows a boy named Iggy, who has a passion for building structures out of anything he can find, even things like food.
His creative streak isn’t always appreciated, but when his class faces an unexpected problem on a school trip, Iggy’s talents shine in a way that changes everything. It’s a story that celebrates creativity and problem-solving in a fun and lighthearted way.
Lane Smith is a writer and illustrator known for his clever storytelling and unique art style. One of his books, “Grandpa Green,” is about a boy walking through a garden that his great-grandfather has shaped over the years.
The plants and hedges tell the story of his great-grandfather’s life, from childhood to old age. The book blends warmth with creativity, bringing memories to life in a visual way that’s both touching and imaginative.
Fans of Mac Barnett’s sense of wonder and humor would likely enjoy Smith’s work.
Bob Shea is a children’s author best known for his playful and humorous storytelling. One of his popular books, “Dinosaur vs. Bedtime,” follows a spunky little dinosaur who thinks he can conquer anything, from a pile of leaves to spaghetti dinner.
Full of bold illustrations and plenty of roaring, it’s a fun and energetic romp. Readers who enjoy Mac Barnett’s quirky and creative stories might enjoy the lively imagination found in Bob Shea’s work.
Dan Santat is an author and illustrator known for creating stories that connect with readers of all ages. One of his standout books is “After the Fall”. It reimagines the story of Humpty Dumpty, exploring what happens after his great fall from the wall.
The story focuses on Humpty overcoming his fears and finding courage, drawing readers into his journey in a way that’s heartwarming and memorable. Santat’s illustrations add depth and bring the world to life.
Fans of Mac Barnett might enjoy his ability to tell meaningful stories with humor and emotion.