11 best for new siblings books

The arrival of a new sibling is a significant event in a child's life, often accompanied by a whirlwind of emotions. Adjusting to this new dynamic can be challenging, and books provide a valuable tool for navigating these feelings. These stories help children understand and process their emotions, offering reassurance and guidance as they embrace their new role. While many picture books address various aspects of sibling relationships, a specific category has emerged focusing on "books for new siblings." These titles offer a unique perspective, celebrating the arrival of a new baby while acknowledging the adjustments and potential challenges that may arise for older siblings.

This collection of "books for new siblings" reflects a range of approaches and perspectives, from humorous anecdotes to heartwarming tales of acceptance and love. Authors address diverse concerns, exploring themes of jealousy, sharing, and the importance of family unity. Some books offer practical advice on coping with new routines, while others focus on the emotional journey of becoming a big brother or sister. By showcasing a variety of voices and experiences, these books aim to resonate with a wide range of children and families, providing a supportive and relatable framework for navigating this exciting and transformative chapter in their lives.

Table of Contents

1. Julius, the Baby of the World by Kevin Henkes

Julius, the Baby of the World

Published by Greenwillow Books in 1995, 'Julius, the Baby of the World' by Kevin Henkes is a thought-provoking read that offers a thorough understanding of its key topics. The story follows Lilly, a big sister whose initial excitement about a new sibling, Julius, quickly turns into jealousy. As her parents shower Julius with attention, Lilly's resentment grows, leading her to engage in a series of humorous yet relatable acts of rebellion. Through Lilly's journey, Henkes explores the complex emotions of sibling rivalry, particularly the jealousy and insecurity that often arise when a new baby joins the family. The book highlights the importance of acknowledging and validating these feelings while emphasizing the deep love and loyalty that can exist between siblings, ultimately offering a comforting and relatable experience for children navigating similar situations.

Who should read Julius, the Baby of the World?

  • New siblings
  • Parents of new siblings
  • Teachers
  • Librarians

Awards

  • California Young Readers Medal (1993)
Price
  • from $165.39 for hardcover
  • $9.99 for kindle

2. The Boss Baby by Marla Frazee

The Boss Baby

In 'The Boss Baby', Marla Frazee provides an engaging and well-structured narrative that presents essential information in a clear manner. The story follows a baby who, despite his age, asserts his authority and demands constant attention from his family. He employs his cunning wit to manipulate his surroundings, using a mix of charm and forceful tactics to get his way. The story captures the humorous and sometimes frustrating experience of having a new baby in the family, highlighting the power dynamics and the challenges of adjusting to a new sibling.

Lesson learned

'The Boss Baby' humorously illustrates that even though a new baby may seem demanding and require a lot of attention, they are also vulnerable and need love and care. The book encourages readers to see beyond the initial frustration and embrace the joy and responsibility that comes with having a new sibling.

Awards

  • Iowa Goldfinch Award (2013)
  • Goodreads Choice Award (2010)
Price
  • $7.99 for hardcover
  • $7.99 for kindle

3. Big Brother Daniel by Angela C. Santomero

Big Brother Daniel

'Big Brother Daniel' by Angela C. Santomero delivers a well-researched analysis that guides readers through complex ideas with clarity and precision. The story follows Daniel Tiger, a beloved character from the children's television series 'Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,' as he adjusts to the arrival of his new baby sister, Margaret. The book highlights Daniel's role as a supportive big brother, showcasing his understanding of the needs of a newborn and his willingness to help his parents care for his sister. The story emphasizes the importance of patience, empathy, and sharing as key elements of sibling relationships.

Price
  • $15.18 for hardcover
  • $6.99 for kindle

4. I am a Big Brother [Board book] by Caroline Jayne Church

I am a Big Brother [Board book]

With a focus on 'books for new siblings', ''I am a Big Brother [Board book]'' by Caroline Jayne Church showcasing the key aspects of this intricate topic. The book celebrates the arrival of a new baby and the transition to becoming a big brother. Through simple and relatable text, the story acknowledges the potential challenges and anxieties that a new sibling may bring, offering reassurance and guidance to the older child. The heartwarming illustrations depict the joy and love associated with family expansion, highlighting the unique bond that develops between siblings.

Price
  • $4.99 for hardcover
  • $3.99 for kindle

5. The New Small Person by Lauren Child

Audio of The New Small Person

In 'The New Small Person', Lauren Child presents a deep dive into a captivating topic, offering structured insights and key takeaways. The story follows Elmore Green, an only child who experiences a significant change in his life with the arrival of a new baby. Elmore initially struggles to adjust to the arrival of his sibling, feeling a sense of displacement and jealousy as his parents shower the new baby with attention. Child skillfully portrays Elmore's mixed emotions, from resentment and anger to eventual acceptance and a budding sense of protectiveness towards his younger sibling. The story emphasizes the importance of understanding and validating these feelings as children navigate the transition to becoming a big brother or sister.

Lesson learned

'The New Small Person' illustrates that while the arrival of a new sibling can initially feel overwhelming and disruptive, it ultimately brings new opportunities for love and growth. The story encourages readers to embrace the challenges and joys of becoming a big brother or sister, emphasizing that family dynamics evolve and new bonds are formed with the addition of a new member.

Price
  • $1.77 for hardcover
  • $7.94 for kindle

6. Waiting for Baby by Rachel Fuller

Waiting for Baby

Published by Child's Play International in 2009, 'Waiting for Baby' by Rachel Fuller is a thought-provoking read that offers a thorough understanding of its key topics. This book explores the anticipation and excitement of welcoming a new baby into the family. It addresses the perspective of an older sibling, acknowledging the potential confusion and anxieties associated with the arrival of a new baby. The story focuses on the preparations for the new arrival, showcasing the various tasks involved in welcoming a new member to the family. Through simple text and engaging illustrations, the book encourages discussions about the emotional and logistical aspects of becoming a big brother or sister, offering comfort and reassurance to children navigating this significant life event.

Who should read Waiting for Baby?

  • Preschool children
  • Parents of children expecting a new sibling
  • Teachers
  • Librarians

Lesson learned

'Waiting for Baby' teaches children that the arrival of a new sibling is a positive and exciting event, though it may also bring changes and adjustments. The story helps children understand that while waiting for the new baby, there are preparations and excitement to look forward to, and the arrival itself will bring joy and a special new bond within the family.

Price
  • $15.99 for hardcover

7. My New Baby by Rachel Fuller

My New Baby

Published by Child's Play International in 2009, 'My New Baby' by Rachel Fuller is a thought-provoking read that offers a thorough understanding of its key topics. The book focuses on the arrival of a new baby and the curiosity that it sparks in an older sibling. The story explores the questions that a child might have about a newborn baby, such as its smell, feeding habits, and sleeping patterns. Through simple text and lively illustrations, the book provides a relatable and engaging experience for children as they adjust to the presence of a new sibling, offering a glimpse into the unique world of a newborn.

Who should read My New Baby?

  • Toddlers
  • Parents of toddlers expecting a new sibling
  • Teachers
  • Librarians

Lesson learned

'My New Baby' emphasizes that welcoming a new sibling into the family is an exciting and enriching experience. It encourages children to explore their curiosity about the newborn, reassuring them that it's okay to have questions and discover the unique characteristics of their new baby sibling. The book highlights the natural wonder and fascination that often comes with a new addition to the family.

Price
  • $11.60 for hardcover

8. Big Sisters Are the Best by Fran Manushkin

Contributor: Kirsten Richards(Illustrator)

Audio of Big Sisters Are the Best

'Big Sisters Are the Best' by Fran Manushkin and Kirsten Richards celebrates the arrival of a new baby and the transition to becoming a big sister. The book highlights the joys and responsibilities associated with this role, focusing on the unique bond that develops between siblings. The story emphasizes the positive aspects of being a big sister, emphasizing the love, care, and support that can be shared between siblings.

Lesson learned

'Big Sisters Are the Best' encourages children to embrace the role of a big sister, highlighting the special bond that develops between siblings. The book emphasizes the joys and responsibilities of being a big sister, suggesting that although there might be adjustments to make, there is much love and fun to be had with a new sibling.

Price
  • $6.79 for hardcover

9. Big Brothers Are the Best by Fran Manushkin

Contributor: Kirsten Richards(Illustrator)

Big Brothers Are the Best

'Big Brothers Are the Best' by Fran Manushkin, Kirsten Richards delivers a well-researched analysis that guides readers through complex ideas with clarity and precision. The book focuses on the arrival of a new baby and the transition to becoming a big brother. The story highlights the joys and responsibilities associated with this role, emphasizing the unique bond that develops between siblings. The book emphasizes the positive aspects of being a big brother, highlighting the love, care, and support that can be shared between siblings.

Who should read Big Brothers Are the Best?

  • Preschool children
  • Parents of preschool children expecting a new sibling
  • Teachers
  • Librarians
Price
  • $6.95 for hardcover

10. Maple & Willow Together by Lori Nichols

Maple & Willow Together

With a focus on 'books for new siblings', ''Maple & Willow Together'' by Lori Nichols showcasing the key aspects of this intricate topic. The story follows two sisters, Maple and Willow, who, despite their close bond, experience the ups and downs that often come with sibling relationships. The book explores the dynamics of sibling rivalry, highlighting moments of frustration and conflict that arise from their contrasting personalities and needs. Through their playful adventures, the sisters navigate these challenges, ultimately demonstrating the importance of compromise, understanding, and the enduring strength of their sibling bond.

Lesson learned

'Maple & Willow Together' shows that while siblings may sometimes disagree or have conflicts, they are also capable of finding a way to come together and appreciate each other's company. The story teaches that even the closest siblings need space and time for themselves, but ultimately, their bond remains strong and provides a source of comfort and joy.

Price
  • $15.59 for hardcover
  • $7.99 for kindle

11. Little Miss, Big Sis by Amy Krouse Rosenthal

Contributor: Peter H. Reynolds(Illustrator)

Little Miss, Big Sis

The work 'Little Miss, Big Sis' provokes thought by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Peter H. Reynolds, delving into the core ideas surrounding 'books for new siblings'. The story follows Little Miss as she experiences the joy and challenges of becoming a big sister. The book highlights the adjustments and emotions that accompany the arrival of a new baby, showcasing Little Miss's evolving role within the family. Through heartwarming illustrations and simple text, the story encourages children to embrace their new role as a big sibling, emphasizing the love and support that comes with family expansion.

Price
  • $11.58 for hardcover
  • $11.99 for kindle