15 Child-Friendly Books For Young Budding Artists

Kids are naturally imaginative, so why not guide their imagination to careers they will more likely enjoy? Below are some great artsy books that you can introduce to your youngsters to nurture their artistic pursuits. Happy reading!

1. Steve Jobs: Thinking Differently by Patricia Lakin

Age: 8-12 years old

Career Paths: Inventor, creator, technology, innovator, computers

Some people might find it a challenging read, but let me tell you this: this book is packed with honesty and life mission, and vision toward greatness. If your kid loves technology, innovating, or experimenting, this is the perfect book for them.

This book did not filter failure; it shows how failure can be a great motivator to anyone who has a dream, be it small or big.

2. Whoosh!: Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions by Chris Barton

Age: 7-10 years old

Career Paths: Inventor, creator, toy-maker

If your kid has a mind for creativity, inventions, and robots, Whoosh! It would be a perfect summer read for them. This picture book shows so much perseverance that you would really believe that anything is possible for someone who wants to achieve something.

Aside from appealing and creative illustrations, this book is a fresh yet inspiring read that would definitely engage your kid’s thinking. Another great thing about this book is it opens opportunities for a great discussion between you and your kids.

3. Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat by Javaka Steptoe

Age: 6-9 years old

Career Paths: artist, writer

Radiant Child is a picture book that would be great for anyone who feels for art, image, and the creative process. This vibrant book is a perfect choice if you want your kid’s summer reading more colorful and enjoyable. What I love about this book is that it’s complex yet relatable, especially to kids.

Its stunning and magnificent storytelling is so inspiring that if you read this with your kid, you might also find yourself nodding with its prose and vividness.

4. The Boy on Fairfield Street: How Ted Geisel Grew Up to Become Dr Seuss by Kathleen Krull

Age: 5-9 years old

Career Paths: Writer, cartoonist

This book is so special and perfect for anyone who feels different. It is a positive and imaginative book that would encourage young ones to follow their dreams. Just be prepared because your kids might ask many questions about Dr. Seuss during your reading sessions.

The boy on Fairfield Street is very informative, witty, and honest at the same time. If you’re a parent, this book would be a wake-up call if you’re a type of “no, you should be like them” parent. Because every kid is unique in their own ways, and as a parent, we should be helping them curate their best.

5. Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code by Laurie Wallmark

Age: 5 years old and above

Career Paths: Video game maker, inventor, creator, tech, innovator, computers

The strong, rich, and accurate illustrations of this book make it so appealing for youngsters. But! More than its illustrations, Grace Hopper will inspire the genius in your daughter. Grace Hopper’s journey is such an inspiring and high spirit that it would be a perfect model for your young ladies. It is also easy to read and understand.

6. Imagine That! How Dr Suess Wrote the Cat in the Hat by Judy Sierra

Age: 3-7 years old

Career Paths: writer, illustrator, book publisher, book agent

Another favorite pick! Yes, a Dr. Seuss inspiration again. This is a well-loved book because it shows real-life situations that Dr. Seuss faced that might inspire younger generations. Its interesting story was carefully partnered with vibrant illustrations.

This is an excellent book for career activities in kindergarten to primary level. It provides broad exposure to a wide range of occupations.

7. Keith Haring: The Boy Who Just Kept Drawing

Age: 5-8 years old

Career Path: Illustrator, painter, artist

If your kid has an eye for drawings or paintings, then this biography written by this artist’s own sister would be a great read. This book presented specific feelings, scenes, and realizations that your little artist might use or might serve as a guide in pursuing their passion for arts.

This is a sure compelling biography that you and your kids will enjoy over the weekend.

8. My Life in Pictures by Deborah Zemke

Age: 6-8 years old

Career Path: writer, illustrator, painter, cartoonist

Want some more books for your little artist? Then you’ve come to the right listing!

If your kid loves drawing everywhere and anywhere, as in anywhere, then Bea would be relatable for them. This is a book for children in kindergarten, first, or second grade. The pictures were especially appealing to the children, who may find it simple to participate in and remember the conversations.

My Life in Pictures can also be a calming factor for your kid who might currently be away from missing their friends.

9. Miles Morales by Jason Reynolds

Age: 12-18 years old

Career Path: graffiti artist, cartoonist, illustrator, painter, graphic artist

Also talks about the racism that the main character experiences, great for children who have anxiety and experience bullying, racism, and no confidence

10. The Dot by Peter Reynolds

Age: 5-9 years old

Career Paths: illustrator, painter, artist

Best for children who have no confidence in drawing but like art; best for children who love to try new things but don’t know how to explore. It will tickle their imagination on using their abilities and skills and make them unique from others.

11. Anywhere Artist by Nikki Slade Robinson

Age: 4-7 years old

Career Paths: artist, painter, creator, media illustrator, graphic artist, scientist, inventor

The main character does not limit herself to a paper-pencil kind of artist from the title itself. She’s a resourceful child wherein she can turn anything into a piece of art, anywhere she is. This book can help children be more imaginative so they will not be spoiled with expensive things for arts.

12. Art & Max by David Weisner

Age: 4-7 years old

Career Path: artist, painter, illustrator

This would be a lovely read, especially if your kid loves painting or doodling with friends. This book talks about cute and interesting characters such as Arthur and Max. Or, they might also get interested in the lizards! This grade school book is such an easy yet imaginative read.

For an activity, you can let your kid choose among the characters and explain why they chose the said character.

13. Margaret and the Moon by Dean Robbins

Age: 4-8 years old

Career Paths: engineer, software/coding, computers, astronaut, scientist

Who does not love astronauts, stars, and the moon? None! Margaret and The Moon would be a great book to explore for your imaginative and young scientist. This is a true story of a woman from NASA that your young lady might get interested in.

“Margaret and the Moon” will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of children to study computers in the hopes of changing the world like Margaret Hamilton did.

14. Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

Age: 4-8 years old

Career Paths: painter, illustrator, artist

Another imagination-triggering picture book for your young artist. It is perfectly made for children, but it is undoubtedly clever. This might challenge your kid’s imagination that might result in a lot and yet fun questions. Harold’s story is also perfect for bedtime stories. That one story that your kid would never forget before they go to sleep.

15. A Life Made by Hand: A Story of Ruth Asawa

Age: 5-8 years old

Career Paths: artist, sculptor, creator, inventor, media illustrator

An engaging and beautiful book for young curators. The illustrations and colors used in this book were just suitable and perfect for the story.

This is a lovely book for any child who enjoys art, particularly young girls looking for role models. This will make them realize that although males have dominated art history, many women finally deserve recognition.

And hopefully, your young lady would be the next.