I need no words to help you understand my mood.

Snow – it’s beautiful when it gently blankets the countryside and reminds us all of a hopeful, cozy winter memory. But when you’ve finally reached mid-April, your kids have recovered from multiple stomach bugs and endless head colds, and all you want is a glimpse of a tiny flower poking its head out of the cold, hard ground, the last thing you or your antsy children wish for is more of that annoying white stuff.

Sadly, this week in Vermont, we got just that – almost four inches!

So, to uplift you – and, let’s be honest, myself – I’m going to share a little hint of spring that can be found in some wonderful books my son and I enjoy reading together. Time to let go of pre-spring angst and connect to the joyful promise of warmth, sunshine, green grass, and colorful blooms!

My absolute favorite book to read this time of year (which I’ve referenced before, because, yes, I am that excited about it) is And Then It’s Spring, written by Julie Fogliano and illustrated by Erin Stead. The gentle, quiet, and patient tone perfectly captures the slow but productive progression of brown turning to beautifully vibrant green.

Some other books that inspire patience, hope, and spring flowers:

Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney

The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle

Planting a Rainbow by Lois Ehlert

Check out our Pinterest board, Themed Booklists, for more suggestions of books on spring, seeds, flowers, and sunshine.