Winter Poetry Books
Here are some of my favorite winter-themed poetry books. These books include different perspectives related to the winter season, offering ideas and imagery to inspire students’ poetic expressions.
What You Need to Be Warm: A Poem of Welcome by Neil Gaiman
In his powerful and moving poem, featuring illustrations from thirteen artists, author Neil Gaiman writes different memories to answer the question: what do you need to be warm?
Winter Eyes by Douglas Florian
Get ready to cozy up with the heartwarming words of beloved poet Douglas Florian. In this collection of twenty-eight winter-inspired poems, accompanied by his signature watercolor illustrations, Florian brings the magic of the season to life, making you forget all about the chill in the air.
Iguanas in the Snow: And Other Winter Poems/Iguanas en la Nieve: Y Otros Poemas de Invierno by Francisco X. Alarcón
Francisco X. Alarcón paints a vivid picture of a city where children sing poetry in two languages. A family playing in the snow brings back memories of iguanas frolicking near the poet's grandma's house in Mexico. Maya Christina Gonzalez's lively illustrations are complemented by collages of old maps and playful iguanas peeking from surprising places.
Winter Bees and Other Poems of the Cold by Joyce Sidman
Explore the winter survival strategies of animals in this wonderful picture book of poems by Newbery Honor-winning poet Joyce Sidman. Rick Allen's beautiful linoleum print illustrations bring to life the secret activities happening under the snow, showcasing nature's beauty and power.
A Poem for Every Winter Day (A Poem for Every Day and Night of the Year) edited by Allie Esiri
Allie Esiri's anthology offers a diverse collection of winter poems with introductory paragraphs linked to specific dates. Ideal for reading aloud, the book includes both familiar favorites and new discoveries.
The Illustrated Robert Frost: 15 Winter Poems for Children by Robert Frost
Explore snowy landscapes, charming cottages, and winter wonders through the classic poetry of Robert Frost. This collection features fifteen of Frost's renowned poems, such as "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening," "The Road Not Taken," and "Christmas Trees," capturing the magic of nature and the holiday season.
Snow, Snow: Winter Poems for Children by Jane Yolen
Jane Yolen's snow poems, inspired by Jason Stemple's stunning snow photographs, invite children to see snow's breathtaking beauty. Through these poems and pictures, children can learn to view snow with both their imaginations and their eyes.
Winter Wishes by M.H. Clark
A sequel to M.H. Clark and Cécile Metzger's best-seller More Than a Little, these heartwarming rhymes celebrate winter wonders.
The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper
Susan Cooper's poem, The Shortest Day, captures the magic of the returning light and the longing for traditions that connect us across generations. Illustrated by Carson Ellis, the book beautifully conveys the joy and community found in celebrating light, thankfulness, and festivity during the winter solstice.
Welcome to the Wonder House by Rebecca Kai Dotlich and Georgia Heard
If I may, here’s one of mine. The cover, beautifully illustrated by Deborah Freedman, is the most gorgeous winter scene. And co-author Rebecca Kai Dotlich has a beautiful poem in the Room of Quiet about the quietness of snow.