20+ of the Best Easter Books
20+ of the Best Easter Books
a book list from Reshelving Alexandria
Delve into our Easter book selection, where you'll find a perfect blend of Christian holy observances and enchanting tales of chocolate-bearing bunnies. Whether you prefer reflections on faith or whimsical adventures, we've curated two distinct categories to cater to every reader.
And here's the best part: many titles are available for free on Internet Archive!
Colossians 1:13-14: "God has rescued us from the power of darkness and has brought us into the kingdom of the Son whom he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."
Something Better Coming by Megan Saben
I (Ambre) was gifted a copy of this book to review. While reading, I was struck by how much of Jesus’ life was marked by death and resurrection- and how shocking it would have been to his followers when they saw him die and felt that was the end. It’s such a beautiful hope filled book told in verse.
Listen to our Stories from the Ashes interview with the author here!
The First Easter Rabbit by Hertha Pauli
This imaginative story reveals why the Easter Rabbit shares a basket of eggs on Easter morning. Set during Brother Francis of Assisi's visit to an island where animals fellowshipped with God before Easter, the tale unfolds with the simplicity and wonder of olden days, revealing the heartwarming origins of this beloved tradition.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Peter's First Easter by Walter Wangerin Jr.
Experience the profound and captivating journey of Jesus' final week through the intimate lens of Peter in this eloquent picture book. Walter Wangerin Jr. intricately weaves together the threads of Peter's experience during Holy Week, providing readers with a poignant glimpse into Peter's heart during the transformative events therin.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Easter Fires by Wilma Pitchford Hays
The Easter Fires follows Little Bow in a drought-stricken Indian village where traditional sacrifices are proposed to bring rain. Little Bow's quest to find his friend Silver Arrow leads to a transformative encounter with the Christian story of Easter, reshaping the tribe's beliefs and customs.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Chicken Sunday by Patricia Polacco
In this heartfelt narrative inspired by the author's own childhood, a young Russian American girl and her African American found family brothers embark on a mission to buy a beautiful Easter hat for their beloved gramma, Eula. As their genuine intentions face unexpected challenges, the story unfolds into a touching exploration of family bonds, cultural understanding, and the enduring power of love.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
The Bunny Who Found Easter by Charlotte Zolotow
Embark on a delightful journey with Bunny as he explores each season in search of Easter, only to realize that the true essence of the holiday lies in the arrival of spring. A classic Charlotte Zolotow tale with various illustrators in different editions—ensure the illustrations of the edition you’re considering resonate with you before making this addition to your collection.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
The Easter Bunny That Overslept by Otto Friedrich & Priscilla Friedrich, illustrated by Adrienne Adams
Children may not be keen on Easter eggs delivered on Mother's Day (or other days), but joy unfolds when Santa discovers the perfect gift to assist the Easter Bunny in timely egg deliveries. The illustrations are everything and we strongly recommend tracking down the original illustrations as pictured above.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
The Chocolate Rabbit by Maria Claret
In the delightful tale of Little Bertie Rabbit, a minor mishap involving a pot of his mother's chocolate becomes the spark that ignites his father's entrepreneurial spirit, leading to the flourishing family business of crafting delectable chocolate rabbits. This charming narrative beautifully underscores the timeless truth that mishaps often serve as fertile ground for cultivating ingenious ideas.
We recommend the unabridged editions, not the abridged 1985 travesty.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Easter A to Z : Every Letter Tells a Story by Lisa Flinn
The illustrations in this book are surprisingly moving, the alphabet tie-ins seamlessly flow, and the block of Scripture on each page smoothly fleshes out the story. This book greatly exceeded all expectations!
Available to be read on Internet Archive
The Country Bunny and The Little Gold Shoes by Du Bose Heyward
In the heartwarming classic, follow the journey of Mother Bunny Cottontail, who, despite setting aside her aspirations of becoming the Easter Bunny to care for her lively brood of twenty-one baby bunnies, finds an unexpected twist of fate. But her well behaved crew is observed by Grandfather Bunny, who bestows upon her the prestigious title of the most important Easter Bunny of all, unfolding a timeless story of hard work, resilience, and the ultimate recognition of a devoted mother's significance.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
The Donkey Who Carried a King by R. C. Sproul
When a dispirited donkey named Davey finds himself unexpectedly selected for a crucial mission, this engaging narrative beckons readers of all ages to embrace the profound fulfillment found in answering the call to serve.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Easter by Jan Pienkowski
A clear and meaningful telling of the last week of Jesus’s life. Scripture text selected from The New King James Bible. This is one of Ambre’s favorites to read throughout the week leading up to Easter.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
The Easter Egg Artists by Adrienne Adams
In the heartwarming narrative of a creative rabbit family, their son is granted the space to cultivate his unique artistic style. As the tale unfolds, the family realizes that his distinctive approach resonates with their customer base, affirming the profound beauty that emerges when individuality is embraced and appreciated.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Easter Treat by Roger Duvoisin
Santa disguises himself to be able to enjoy the spring blossoms found at Easter but his familiarity ruins his disguise. A delightful little humorous read.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross: the True Story of Why Jesus Died and Rose Again by Carl Laferton
A brilliantly illustrated story of the gospel from the Garden of Eden through the death and resurrection of Jesus.
Easter: With Words from the King James Bible by Fiona French
A beautiful collection of biblical text paired with moving stained glass illustrations. A lovely addition to any collection of Christian Easter books. This book is, pleasantly, part of a series.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
A Look-Inside Easter Egg by Pamela Bianco
A charming book of a girl’s search for the Easter rabbit. The story includes sweet moments of forgiveness after hidden mistakes were revealed. A lovely Victorian read.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
A Crowell Holiday Book - Easter by Aileen Fisher
World-wide celebrations and traditions of spring time plus the a fully rounded story of Jesus, his death and resurrection are told in this thoughtful book.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Note: This book has been rewritten and republished under the title of The Story of Easter. Personally, I find the storytelling to be less engaging and though this version starts with the story of Jesus, it’s more simply told and less gripping. That said, the illustrations are fantastic and it’s worth a free perusal on Archive.
The Tale of Three Trees by Angela Elwell Hunt
The Easter story is told through a unique viewpoint that will leave the reader reflecting how no contribution is minor and all have a purpose.
Easter by Cass R. Sandak
This book offers clear definitions of various religious Easter-related terms, simplifying what may seem intricate to children. Through concise explanations, it helps young readers grasp the meanings behind these words commonly heard during the holiday season, making the Easter experience more accessible and understandable.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Miracle Man: the Story of Jesus by John Hendrix
This is a favorite Easter time picture book for our teens. Hendrix packs a punch with a faithful retelling paired with his incredible hand lettering and illustration. A true feast for the eyes and encouragement for the heart.
Lilies, Rabbits, and Painted Eggs: The Story of the Easter Symbols by Edna Barth
This book provides a comprehensive exploration of Easter customs from around the world, offering readers a detailed understanding of the diverse traditions associated with the Easter season.
Note: This book was reprinted in 2001. While we haven't had the chance to read the reprint ourselves, a review suggests that it offers a good secular option, devoid of religious references—unlike the original version we recommend. In essence, the edition we recommend presents a very balanced perspective, encompassing both religious and secular observances.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Easter Around the World by Shannon Knutsen
This book explores Easter traditions from around the world, including Sweden, Ethiopia, Russia, Egypt, Mexico, the Philippines, Colombia, and Germany. Readers will gain insight into the unique traditions and customs that enrich the Easter season across different cultures.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Petook: The Rooster Who Met Jesus (previously titled Petook: an Easter Story) by Caryll Houselander and Tomie dePaola
A poignant story of a rooster that arches from Jesus’ childhood to his death on Calvary hill and his resurrection three days later. So grateful that it’s back in print!
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Rechenka’s Eggs by Patricia Polacco
A beautiful Russian Easter tale that showcases themes of kindness, perseverance, and the power of miracles. An Easter classic!
Available to be read on Internet Archive
Is this…Easter? by Helen Yoon
This humorous story demonstrates integrative negotiation amidst differing priorities, ultimately leading to a joyous conclusion where everyone get what they want. It is hysterical and SO funny! It’s a new family favorite for year round laughs.
Glad Easter Day by Mary Edna Lloyd
A sweet celebration of the good news of Jesus rising from the dead on Easter morning as told through the eyes of children who loved him. A precious early reader.
Available to be read on Internet Archive
The Kingdom of God Bible Storybook by Tyler Van Halteren and Aleksander Jasinski
Lithos Kids is publishing beautiful Christian books for kids. Their boxed set of the Old and New Testament Bible Storybook makes a beautiful gift!
I admire how the illustrations in these books cater to younger children, depicting the solemnity of the crucifixion— from the flogging to the crown of thorns and nails—yet tastefully avoiding graphic bloodshed.
We have chosen to be affiliates for Lithos Kids and encourage you to use our code (see below) for a 10% off discount should you choose to order. (They also have a stunning gift quality Pilgrim’s Progress!)
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It saddens me that there are no books on this list with the correct name of God's holiday in the title: Passover.