For all you music lovers out there, these children’s books written by musicians will put a song in your heart! I know the list sure puts a smile on my face every time I look at it, and I hope it does the same for you.
Some of your favorite artists have turned their love for words to paper, and have created these masterpieces that you won’t mind reading over and over again.
Growing up, music always played a big part of my life. I only wish I had known about some of these books sooner, so that I could start collecting them for my kids sooner.
You’ll find a variety of artists, from the reggae tunes of Bob Marley, to the familiar sounds of Bob Dylan. Madonna has also written a series on the importance of friendship and compassion.
It’s time to capture the artistic attention of young minds with these musical books!
20 Children’s Books Written by Musicians
Every Little Thing: Bob Marley
Cheer up because every little thing… is going to be alright! This feel-good song can be read to children to encourage a positive outlook on life! The little boy in this song doesn’t let anything get him down thanks to the three little birds at his doorstep.
One Love: Bob Marley
This story/song follows a little girl as she works to make her neighborhood a beautiful place to live. It expands on the importance of love and how the focus of this subject causes it to multiply.
What a Wonderful World: Louis Armstrong
I adore this classic song! Now we can give our children a reason to find the wonders of this world. Don’t forget to pick up the original song from Louis Armstrong himself on his Album. If you have Amazon Prime, it’s free to listen!
Forever Young: Bob Dylan
One of my all-time favorite songs. This lyrical masterpiece should be shared far and wide for everyone to enjoy. For now, start with your family to continue a tradition of musical genius.
If Dogs Run Free: Bob Dylan
Another Bob Dylan favorite! Through this children’s book written by musicians, a celebration of creativity and diversity takes place. The message is to always be yourself!
A, B, See the Beatles!
Introduce great music to young ears by reading (and singing!) the ABC’s, with some help from the Beatles! Throughout the words in this book, you will find Beatles lyrics. This book is a fantastic example of combining music and literature.
Imagine: John Lennon
Imagine, a world at peace. In this book, readers follow a pigeon as he flies around to spread a message of understanding. Spread the message of tolerance by reading and singing this sweet tale.
Octopus Garden: Ringo Starr
The illustrations in this book bring this playful song to life. Swim through the sea where you can visit the octopus garden. The theme of this book is to share, read, and sing! You will also find a CD in this book for everyone to have a listen.
High in the Clouds: Paul McCartney
A squirrel is off on a quest to find the town of Animalia where peace, love, and harmony are alive and well. But first, he needs to squash the plot to destroy his destination. This would be a great book for kiddos who are starting to read chapter books.
The Very Fairy Princess Takes the Stage: Julie Andrews
When a little girl gets a role in the school play that doesn’t include wearing anything pink or princess-like, she is not too happy with her character. That is until she has an opportunity to save the day.
Gus & Me: Keith Richards
A heartwarming story about a boy, his grandfather, and a guitar. This is a true story, about Keith Richards and his childhood. You will also find that Keith’s daughter is the illustrator of this musically bound children’s book.
Outlaw Pete: Bruce Springsteen
A unique story that stars Outlaw Pete…. a cowboy baby. Don’t be fooled though, this baby knows how to take care of himself and then some. His adventures will definitely put a smile on the reader’s face.
Runny Babbit: Shel Silverstein
Did you know that this incredible author is also a talented songwriter? It’s true! He has written songs for Johnny Cash and Loretta Lynn. This hilarious book swaps out letters and syllables between words to create some fantastic new words.
A Giraffe and a Half: Shel Silverstein
Most folks know Shel’s more famous works such as Where the Sidewalk Ends and A Light in the Attic, but this book also needs to be shared and read. It is full of even more tongue twisters and descriptive words that cannot be missed!
When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc
The birth of hip-hop is outlined in this book that took place in the Bronx during a party! A simple, yet lively, story about the creation of a style of music that exploded with musical talent.
Coat of Many Colors: Dolly Parton
When a little girl gets teased for her colorful coat, she realizes that the coat was made out of love by her mother. This song is based on the true story of Dolly Parton when she was growing up.
Rock Steady: Sting
This book gives the story of Noah a bit of a modern twist by teaching readers how to take care of mother earth. The illustrations are beyond breathtaking!
The Jolly Mon: Jimmy Buffet
Here is another example of a fantastic song turned book. The paintings in this children’s books capture the beauty of the Caribbean and the interesting life of Jolly Mon.
The Teddy Bears’ Picnic: Jerry Garcia
The ultimate lullaby can be read as a story too! A family favorite that depicts the adventures of teddy bears when they gather for a picnic.
The English Roses: Madonna
This series of books is based on a group of girls who live in London. They exclude one of their classmates, but soon learn that she needs a friend more than ever. The theme of this series is compassion and friendship.
With a little bit of rock n’roll, reggae, and country, mixed with stories, and poetry… these books give even more depth and magic, to music, and storytelling. The creativity along with the illustrations in these books create the perfect platform for learning.
Challenge your children to write their own music and stories about something that is important to them. It could be anything from the relationship they have with a grandparent to interesting facts about their pet dog or cat.
Do you have a favorite children’s book written by musicians? Share your top pick with everyone in the comments! And don’t forget to swing by the Amazon Music Store to pick up the corresponding album to the books!
You may also want to check out this list of Kids Books About the Ocean – which includes free printables as well.
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