8 Leaf-Themed Autumn Picture Books Kids Love to Read

If you’re like me, you love to find the perfect picture book to go with every occasion. After I went on a colorful nature walk with my daughter, it got me thinking about our favorite fall books, especially ones about leaves and nature. I put together a list of books both my toddler and students enjoy. I generally tend to be drawn to sweet stories that have soothing illustrations as well as a deeper message so that is what you will find below!

1. The Little Yellow Leaf

The Little Yellow Leaf by Carin Berger is a story told from a stubborn leaf’s perspective. Not only does it have calming mixed media visuals but also touches on themes of friendship.

2. The Tree Keepers

The Tree Keepers by Gemma Koomen is a whimsical tale about miniature people whose home is in a tree. Cozy illustrations coupled with motifs of community and friendship make it the perfect autumn read for any kid!

3. A Trip to the Forest

A Trip to the Forest by Tabitha Paige is one in a set of three incredible board books. This book in particular is a nightly request for my daughter and our favorite thing to bring as an extra little gift for a baby shower. These books have foundational language concepts throughout the sweet stories and this one in particular again highlights the importance of community and helping one another.

4. Leif and the Fall

Leif and the Fall by Allison Sweet Grant and Adam Grant is a silly story about a leaf who’s scared to fall. The heartwarming book encourages creative problem solving skills.

5. Because of an Acorn

Because of an Acorn by Lola M. Schaefer and Adam Schaefer is a simple story about many facets of the natural world. My teacher brain goes immediately to using this to teach cause and effect and even making inferences.

6. Sweep

Sweep by Louise Greig is a very loosely autumnal story but I included it for the sweet illustrations and wonderful message. The premise is a boy who’s having big feelings and struggling to overcome them, an experience everyone is familiar with.

7. If You Find a Leaf

If You Find a Leaf by Aimee Sicuro is a charming book with lifelike illustrations that encourages readers to turn on their creative minds.

8. Oak the Littlest Leaf Girl

Oak the Littlest Leaf Girl by Lucy Fleming is an adorable tale of a little girl living in the forest. Dealing with big changes is a theme that many children find relatable but is shown through a playful lens.