Rhyming in stories is a real work of art, craft and...sweat. Yes, finding the right rhyme to tell the story effectively is the work of a master. Most of us will be able to rhyme breezy with cheesy but few will be able to add the pace, rhythm and meaning while telling a story.
Most would agree that Julia Donaldson is the Queen of rhymes, some may argue she's the Empress of picture books. They're not wrong but she's not alone. Rhyming in poetry is mostly expected but picture books are not necessarily a poem.
Here, we list, alongside Donaldson, two authors that are also masters in the art of musical storytelling. Andrea Beaty and Smriti Halls have proven to be experts of rhyme in picture books.
So here, are our four favourite rhyming picture books that are a pearl in all criteria:
- original storyline
- beautiful illustration
- flawless text with rhyme and rhythm that flows, pertinent to the story.
Monkey Puzzle
Julia Donaldson & Alex Scheffler
A delightful story about a monkey who is lost in the forest looking for his mum. The butterfly tries to help him but everything he says leads her to an animal different than his mum. The monkey doesn't know how can butterfly keeps getting it wrong until she explains that...
I can't say it or I will be removing the magic from you and your family.
An excellent book both in writing and illustration but mostly the story line is a work of a genius.
Iggy Peck Architect
Andrea Beaty & David Roberts
The illustrations are worthy of many awards. David Roberts shows one more time how his skills come to transform a story in a magical experience.
Iggy is an architect since a very young age, he built arches from pancakes and even used his nappies to create some creative masterpieces.
Those who love illustrations have much to be enchanted about this book.
A wonderfully rhymed story that will certainly spark the passion for design, creativity and the power of being a child.
I'm Sticking with You
Smriti Halls & Steve Small
The power of friendship, particularly mending them and acknowledging how they need to be appreciated is the core message in this book.
The illustration is a prime example of how much it's needed to add to the story. They complement the story in a beautiful and witty manner.
One of our all time favourites!
Jack and the FlumFlum Tree
Julia Donaldson & David Roberts
The master duo of Julia Donaldson & David Roberts combined their talents and expertise in this masterpiece of children's literature.
Jack and his friends need to go to across the Ocean to find an island to get the FlumFlum fruit to heal his grandma. Carrying only a patchwork sack, the trio goes in a wonderfully rhymed adventure covered in funny moments.
Have you read any of them? Do you have other recommendations for us to feature here? Let us know!
