Fairies are possibly the most under-represented imaginary population in quality children’s picture books. My son has always loved fairies, and it’s taken extensive digging in the Austin Public Library catalog to create even this short list. And forget about finding any diversity, so far. But here are the children’s books about fairies that have warmed my heart, through their charm and craft, as well as delighted my kiddo. (Disclosure: Amazon links are affiliate links.)
My picture book posts were published and then occasionally expanded between 2012-2015, with reviews based on reading with my kiddo between preschool age and about eight years old. As of 2023-24, I’m freshening up my lists and adding more recs.
April and Esme: Tooth Fairies (2010) by Bob Graham
This book is so dang sweet. April is a seven year old tooth fairy who wants to get her first tooth without any grownup help. Mom and Dad finally agree, so April and her little sister Esme set off on this nighttime mission with utmost seriousness. This really captures fairy magic and family love, in a restrained and lovely way.
The followup, The Underhills, was a wonderful next installment in April and Esme’s adventures.
Alice the Fairy (2004) by David Shannon
Shannon’s books aren’t usually up my alley, but he got me with this one. Alice is in training to become a fairy, and she finds LOTS of ways to practice her fairy powers, including transforming her father’s cookies into her cookies. The childlike narration is a masterwork of deadpan humor.
Gone With the Wand (2009) by Margie Palatini, illustrated by Brian Ajhar
Bernice Sparklestein, once the best Fairy Godmother of all time, is at the end of the road with her current job. Her friend Edith B. Cuspid, Tooth Fairy Second Class, is stunned – but jumps in immediately to help Bernice find a new line of work. Edith is that overly chatty gal we all know, with too-big jewelry and rhinestone-decorated glasses, but she also has a big heart for her friend. If you’re willing to read this out loud with lots of expression and character, it’s well worth it.
Boy Detective got more out of this when we re-read it when he was nine. I think he felt like he was in on the joke as Edith carried out her final strategy, whereas a few years previously he didn’t necessarily pick up on what she was doing.
The Tooth Fairy Wars (2014) by Kate Coombs, illustrated by Jake Parker
Nathan loses his first tooth, but he wants to keep it. The Tooth Fairy, as a duly appointed representative of the League of Enchanted Commerce, is NOT amused. The escalation on both sides is too funny, especially when the Tooth Fairy calls for reinforcements. I won’t tell you who wins…
And that’s the list!
It was the first good fairy book we found!