The Short Version
If your kids loved The Leaf Thief, here are six more fall picture books to read next. Some are funny, some are beautiful, and some sneak in science, just like Squirrel’s story.
Fletcher And The Falling Leaves
Number one: Fletcher and the Falling Leaves, by Julia Rawlinson, illustrated by Tiphanie Beeke, from two thousand six. Fletcher the fox is worried that his favorite tree is sick, because its leaves keep falling.
It’s the closest match to The Leaf Thief: a small animal who doesn’t understand autumn. But it’s gentler and more tender, with a lovely surprise at the end.
Leaf Man
Number two: Leaf Man, by Lois Ehlert, from two thousand five. The pictures are made from real leaves, scanned and arranged into animals, people and landscapes.
It’s perfect after a leaf walk. Kids always want to make their own leaf creatures afterward.
Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf
Number three: Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf, also by Lois Ehlert, from nineteen ninety one. A child describes the life of a sugar maple tree, from seed to planting.
It’s a great nonfiction pairing for the science side of The Leaf Thief.
The Little Yellow Leaf
Number four: The Little Yellow Leaf, by Carin Berger, from two thousand eight. A leaf isn’t ready to fall when all the others do.
It’s quiet and beautiful, with collage art, and it has a soft message about finding courage, and a friend.
Because Of An Acorn
Number five: Because of an Acorn, by Lola M. Schaefer and Adam Schaefer, from twenty sixteen. It shows how one acorn connects to a whole forest ecosystem.
It’s a lovely way to connect Squirrel’s world to bigger ideas about nature.
We’re Going On A Leaf Hunt
Number six: We’re Going on a Leaf Hunt, by Steve Metzger, from two thousand five. A group of kids head out to find different kinds of leaves, in a rhythm that echoes the classic We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.
It’s fun to chant and act out, especially with young kids.
How To Choose
So, how to choose? Want the closest match? Fletcher and the Falling Leaves. Want leaf art? Leaf Man. Want science? Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf. Want something gentle? The Little Yellow Leaf. Want nature connections? Because of an Acorn. And want to get moving? We’re Going on a Leaf Hunt.
Your Turn
Tell me in the comments: what’s your family’s favorite fall book? My review, science video, and activity guide for The Leaf Thief are linked below.
