We are both drawn to picture books that have slightly strange and whimsical art, but also ones that are unafraid to explore darker themes, and offer new perspectives with wit and originality. Here is a bunch that we hold really close:

The Wanderer by Peter van den Ende 

Recording a paper boat’s adventurous journey, this gorgeous picture book demands multiple readings. Drawn in black and white, it is filled with bizarre sea creatures, sinister scenes, and intricate details that leave you with wonder and some confusion. 

Duck, Death and the Tulip by Wolf Erlbruch

We’ll admit that this one’s a bit eerie, but that’s kind of what we love – the surreal and poignant conversation between Duck and Death. We’ll never get over the delicate illustration of Duck warming Death when he’s damp and cold. 

The Liszts by Kyo Maclear & Julia Sarda

Meet a family of list-makers making every kind of list! This book is about the pleasures of living spontaneously, even through our constant need for certainty. We love the characters, each with their own quirks. Anyone who feels lighter after making a list will love this!

Sultana’s Dream by Rokheya Sakhawat Hossain, Durga Bai

Written in 1905, this imagines a feminist utopia where women use their intellect to overcome aggressive men. Gender roles are flipped, and Durga Bai’s illustrations in black and blue bring her own perspective to the story.   

The Red Summer by Shaun Tan

A near-perfect pandemic read, this one is a reminder of the possibilities of staying hopeful even amidst darkness and chaos. Tan’s drawings are a feast, a mood, swinging between ominous and quiet tenderness. 

Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

In a world where it’s often hard to be who you are without conforming, even as an adult, it’s reassuring to have powerful stories about acceptance. Centred around a boy who wants to become a mermaid, this one is about being just as we are.