Silly and Strange Books You Need To Read

Ottawa Public Library (OPL) is back to share some silly and strange picture books. This month’s post is by Luna Vo, Children’s Programming and Public Services Assistant at the Sunnyside Branch of OPL. “There are so many books to read and so little time. Here is a list of some silly and strange picture books that I thought would bring about some smiles and chuckles.” says Luna. “I hope you and your child will enjoy them like I did!”

Who wet my Pants? By Bob Shea

Help solve this mystery...or was it just an accident? Reuben tries to discover what happened to his pants and if his friends were responsible. They try to assure him that it was probably an accident, but he thinks his friends are covering up what really happened.  This fun book explores a wealth of emotions such as: embarrassment, empathy, anger and forgiveness. A child going through the potty-training process might relate to this book and learn that it’s okay to have accidents.

Rhyming dust bunnies by Jan Thomas

If you’ve been to story time at a library, you have probably heard a Jan Tomas story. This hilarious book is a fun way for children to learn about phonetic awareness through rhyming words. There are three dust bunnies, Ed, Ned, and Ted who love to speak in rhyme. Unfortunately, Bob, the fourth dust bunny does not follow this pattern. Maybe he’s got something different to say? This book has very simple depictions but the bold colours, large speech bubbles, and fun fonts are very eye-catching and add to the silliness.

Still Stuck by Shinsuke Yoshitake

This fun book was recommended by my colleague, and I think everyone has been in this situation - at least once - and can relate. This book follows a young boy who is exploring his autonomy. When it’s time for a bath, he is convinced that he can get undressed on his own but...he gets stuck. What happens if he’s stuck forever? How will he live his life? Both parents and children will have a chuckle when they read this book!

I Can Only Draw Worms by Will Mabbitt

The title of this book is spot on.  It is definitely a book with only worms in it. This might sound boring, but it was a super silly and fun read. The simplicity of the illustrations adds to the humour in this book and the bright neon colours were certainly eye catching. It is also a fun way to incorporate numeracy while reading to children.

Fluffy McWhiskers Cuteness Explosion by Stephan W. Matin

This book is so cute that it causes spontaneous combustion! Whoever sees Fluffy McWhiskers is so overwhelmed, they explode. Naturally, Fluffy doesn’t want that to happen so she tries to downplay her cuteness, but nothing works. Eventually Fluffy decides she is too dangerous to be around. Is she doomed to be alone forever? Or will she be able to find a friend who can accept her as she is?

Underwear! By Jenn Harney

I adored this hilarious book about a father bear trying to get his cub dressed and ready for bed after his bath. Unfortunately, little bear has his own plans after bath time.  The illustrations perfectly encompass the frantic and fun energy of trying to get a little one ready for bedtime.  This is a great book to read to children because it contains word play, homophones, and rhymes that are important to early literacy.

Animals brag about their Bottoms by Maki Saito

Well, I didn’t think that anyone could write a book about bottoms, but here we are! Not only are the illustrations beautiful, but the message about positive body image and self-esteem is fantastic. This book displays all different types of bottoms and encourages readers to see the benefits of being different. No matter the size, shape, texture, or colour, all bottoms are beautiful!

King Baby by Kate Beaton

This book is about King Baby and his loyal subjects. Unfortunately, sometimes his subjects don’t understand his needs, so he has to get things done himself! Follow along as King Baby begins to grow and change. The illustrations are bold and playful – they certainly bring a smile to my face. I’m not going to lie - I think this is definitely more entertaining for adults than for children. The hilarious writing pokes fun of the way parents cater to their baby’s needs.

Penguin problems by Jory John and Lane Smith

This book is about a grumpy penguin who complains about everything! He doesn’t like the weather, the ocean, the way he looks, or the way he waddles. Hopefully, some words of wisdom from a friendly walrus will help change the penguin’s outlook on life. This book is a great reminder to children to be grateful for what they have and to appreciate life.

Bad Dog by Mike Boldt

It’s a typical case of mistaken identity. A little girl receives a new pet for her birthday and is convinced that it is a dog. However, Rocky is not a very good dog, and she doesn’t do the things a typical dog does. She doesn’t like walks, performing tricks or playing with other dogs. Why is this dog so strange? I love the expressive faces depicted in this book and think that parents and children will find this silly book hilarious.