Little Lions: Best Kids' Books About New Siblings from The New York Public Library

Having a second child, as joyous as it is, can be seriously stressful—especially for your first born, who up until now was the center of attention. Even if your kid is excited about becoming a big sister or brother, mixed emotions may set in once the baby actually arrives. Sharing toys at school is one thing; sharing mom and dad and toys at home? Cue a tantrum.

Although the siblings will inevitably bond, you can jump-start the process by sharing books about new brothers and sisters, even while you're still pregnant. So for this month's Little Lions post, we asked Katie Crook, the senior librarian at the Francis Martin Library in the Bronx, to share her favorite children's titles about families welcoming new arrivals.

1. Another Brother by Matthew Cordell
Ages 4 and up

A sheepishly hilarious tale of how it feels to go from being the only one to one of many—thirteen to be precise! But over time, firstborn Davy comes to appreciate his wooly siblings. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

2. Mine! by Shutta Crum; Illustrated by Patrice Barton
Ages 1 and up
In this playful tale, two youngsters, a curious puppy and lots of toys add up to an awful mess! A nearly wordless story and lively illustrations chronicle the ups and downs of sharing and all the fun that happens in between. Even though it's not specifically about siblings, it's sure to be a hit with any kid who has ever loved a toy enough to keep it from the new baby. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

3. A Baby Sister for Frances by Russell Hoban, Illustrated by Lillian Hoban
Ages 4 and up

With a new baby sister at home, Frances can’t help but feel that everyone has forgotten about her. When she runs (not too far) away, she’s still close enough to hear her parents talk about everything they miss about her. Soon Frances realizes that a family isn’t a family without everybody all together. Written and illustrated by a former husband and wife team, this tale is as moving as it sounds. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

4. That New Animal by Emily Jenkins, illustrated by Pierre Pratt
Ages 3 and up

Told from the point of view of a pair of dogs, this story puts a funny allegorical twist on the arrival of a new baby. FudgeFudge and Marshmallow long for the way things were before their owners had a child—a life full of activity and attention. If they can’t eat it, bury it or bite it, what’s the baby good for? With a little patience and perspective, the dogs find a friend in the new addition. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

5. Peter’s Chair by Ezra Jack Keats
Ages 3 and up

In this timeless story from Caldecott Medal-winning author/illustrator Ezra Jack Keats, Peter struggles to understand the merits of being an older sibling. In the end, he learns that the frustrating parts of growing up can also be gifts to share and pass down to his little sister. Find it on NYPL or buy it on amazon

6. Big Red Lollipop by Rukhsana Khan, Illustrated by Sophie Blackall
Ages 4 and up

Rubina is elated when she is invited to her first birthday party. But her mother says she can only go if she brings her little sister, Sana. Rubina is mortified at the thought. Little does she know that Sana has more in store for her after the party! Can these sisters ever be friends? Blackall's evocative illustrations perfectly complement this tale of sibling strife. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

7. Noisy Nora by Rosemary Wells
Ages 3 and up

With an older sister and a younger brother, Nora is literally stuck in the middle. Her older sister gets to have all the fun and her baby brother can’t do anything for himself! Wanting attention and sick of waiting her turn, Nora decides the only solution is to run away. With a noisy surprise, Nora and her family happily reunite. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

8. Pecan Pie Baby by Jacqueline Woodson, Illustrated by Sophie Blackall
Ages 5 and up

Gia doesn’t understand why everyone is fussing over that "ding-dang baby." The kid isn't even born yet and it already seems to be getting all the attention! The comforting sweetness of pecan pie and her Mama’s soothing love show Gia that change can be something to embrace. Once again, Blackall's wonderful illustrations really bring the story to life. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.
 

Read about more of our favorite children's books.

Thanks to The New York Public Library for providing this book list. You can find all of these titles at the library.