A Mighty Girl's favorite books about the special love between mothers and daughters in honor of Mother's Day!
On Sunday, May 12, people in over 80 countries around the world will celebrate Mother’s Day — a day dedicated to celebrating mothers and the contributions they make to their families and to their broader communities. For many Mighty Girls, their relationship with their mothers is a very special one, since Mom is their model for just how mighty girls and women can be.
In honor of Mother’s Day, A Mighty Girl is showcasing our favorite books about the special relationship between mothers and daughters. Whether you’re thinking about the love a mother and daughter share, the special times they spend together, or even the times they don’t see eye-to-eye, there’s something in this collection for everyone!
The Love Between mother and Daughter
A mother is often the first example of unconditional love that a child will experience, and most children love their mother fiercely. These books celebrate the love between mother and child that helps support children until they are ready to be out on their own.
You Are Home
You Are Home
Celebrate enduring parental love and the growth of a beloved child's world with this charming board book! When this baby is born, her home is her mother's arms. When she gets a little bigger, her home becomes the room where she plays... and then the garden outside... and then even further. She begins to realize how challenging the world can be, but with her mother's help, she realizes that, no matter how far you go, your parents' love follows you everywhere and you will always have a home. With sweet rhyming text and warm, inviting illustrations, this is a celebration of how a family's love and support can stretch further than you can imagine.
Mighty Moms
Mighty Moms
Moms work hard at whatever they do — and that includes loving their kids! In this appealing board book for vehicle-crazy kids, fire truck moms, school bus moms, ambulance moms, and many more spend time with their little truck kids. Each colorful page shows a new pair and celebrates their bond. With rhythmic rhyming text and sweet, vibrant illustrations, this book is perfect for kids to read with their Mighty Moms — Mother's Day or any day!
My Love for You
My Love for You
A mother and child decide to enjoy a special beach day, near the end of summer, full of treats to eat and fun things to do. They build a sandcastle together — but a wave washes it down. They spread out a picnic — but a seagull swoops away with one of the girl's favorite crackers. And a rumble of thunder in the distance means the beach day has to end earlier than they planned! But through every setback, the mother reminds her: "Everything is bound to change… /except my love for you." This sweet, soothing board book by Lisa Varchol Perron, featuring illustrations by Sheryl Murray, is a reminder to both children and parents that the love they treasure together is always there.
Mommy Hugs
Mommy Hugs
Count and play through a busy day with this Mighty Girl and her loving mom! Each activity, from waking up to eating breakfast to playing at the park, involves a different sort of hug — but every one of them lets her know that Mommy loves her to pieces. Katz's distinctive bright, patterned illustrations are always a hit with young kids, and they'll soon be asking for their own special hug.
The Mommy Book
The Mommy Book
This fun book, perfect for toddlers, talks about all the ways that mothers are special, no matter what they do — and reminds kids that “all mommies want you to be who you are!” Parr’s distinctive brightly-colored stick figure illustrations capture a diverse selection of moms — working in offices or home with the kids, fishing or shopping, driving motorcycles or minivans — all of whom love their kids to the bottoms of their hearts.
If Kisses Were Colors
If Kisses Were Colors
This book reminds kids that a mother’s love could fill a whole rainbow! Janet Lawler’s lyrical verse is complemented by Alison Jay’s delicate paintings as they capture all the feelings of a mother’s love: warmer than a blanket, stronger than a tree, and, of course, brighter than a rainbow. This book is targeted to young children, but its message is equally appropriate as a gift for a baby shower or Mother’s Day.
Mommy, Mama, and Me
Mommy, Mama, and Me
Some little girls will be celebrating Mother’s Day with two mothers! This book shows a toddler spending a happy day with her two mothers, Mommy and Mama. The very normal day (hide-and-seek, dress-up, bathtime and kisses goodnight) reminds everyone who reads it that families everywhere are much the same, even if there are differences on the surface. The same author/illustrator pair has written Daddy, Papa, and Me, also for age 1 - 3, which depicts a gay couple and their toddler in the same gentle, loving way.
My Mom Is Magical
My Mom Is Magical
The unicorn mother in this cheerful board book is purely magical! "My mom is more amazing than a billion butterflies," the little unicorn declares, and that's not all: she's also "smarter than a school of owls"; "stronger than a squad of superheroes"; "braver than a deep-sea explorer"; and "sillier than a band of bananas!" Most importantly, though, she's great at reminding you: "Kid, you're magical too!" With vibrant illustrations and fun text by the creators of the Hello!Lucky greeting card and design studio, this is an exuberant tribute to magical moms.
You Be Mommy
You Be Mommy
This Mommy has had a busy day! After a long shift at a store, an afternoon and evening full of homework, practices, cooking, and laundry, she's exhausted. So she asks her little girl, "Can you be Mommy and hold me tight?" Fortunately, her daughter has a great model for being a good mother: she tenderly pats her mother's head, tucks her in under her favorite blanket, and gives her a goodnight kiss. And when the little girl starts to get tired herself, Mommy smiles and goes back to doing what a Mommy does: making sure her children know that Mommy will always take care of them. With charming rhyming text and vibrant illustrations that capture a bustling but loving household, this is a sweet story bedtime story that celebrates dedicated moms.
I Love Mom with The Very Hungry Caterpillar
I Love Mom with The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Show Mom just how much she means with the help of the Very Hungry Caterpillar! As the caterpillar crawls through the book, he sees animal mothers caring for their babies: lifting them up, holding them close, and giving them the strength and wisdom they need to face the big world around them! Eric Carle's distinctive artwork and lively animal characters ensure that every child (and mom) can see themselves in this book. Joyful illustrations and colorful creatures make this a lovely keepsake perfect to show whoever you call "Mom" just how much she means to you. For the companion book for fathers, check out I Love Dad with the Very Hungry Caterpillar.
Hello, Baby! I'm Your Mom
Hello, Baby! I'm Your Mom
"I love you. I'll take care of you / like other loving mommies do." Mothers of all kinds love their babies — whether they walk on two legs, fly in the air, stalk through the jungle, or swim in the sea! Beloved author Eve Bunting explores the things both human and animal mothers love about their babies, from tiny hands and feet, to wrinkly skin, to prickly quills. In fact, every mother thinks her baby is just perfect! With lyrical rhyme and adorable illustrations of both human and animal moms and their babies — plus back matter with photos and fun facts about each animal — this tender story is the perfect book to read snuggled up on Mom's lap.
For All The Stars Across The Sky
For All The Stars Across The Sky
Luna and her Mama always share a nightly wish before bedtime. "I wish that we could fly like birds!" Luna exclaims, and soon the pair are imagining soaring high above the world. Another wish sends them swimming through a coral reef, shrinking down to the size of ants, and then growing into giants who stomp down the lane! By the time their adventure is done, Luna is ready to snuggle into her very own bed. In this charming, soothing story, full of soft, evocative artwork, a loving mother/daughter pair celebrate the joys of imaginary journeys and bedtime routines.
Well Done, Mommy Penguin
Well Done, Mommy Penguin
It's Daddy Penguin's turn to wait with Little Penguin, while Mommy Penguin has an important mission: catch some fish for dinner! As they watch, Mommy Penguin has to swim, jump onshore, climb a slippery hill, and much more. When Little Penguin gets anxious — "She’ll be back soon, won’t she?" — Daddy Penguin is quite to reassure, "She sure will." But there's one more big obstacle to overcome: some sleepy seals... who don't stay asleep. Fans of Christ Haughton's books Little Owl Lost and Oh No, George! will love this vibrantly illustrated story that combines inspiration from actual penguin parenting with a tongue-in-cheek look at how hard moms (of all species) work to keep their little ones happy.
Like the Moon Loves the Sky
Like the Moon Loves the Sky
Award-winning author Hena Kahn celebrates a mother's love for her children in this lyrical picture book inspired by words from the Quran! When a baby is born, her mother wishes for her to become "all that is gentle and good." As she grows, she learns new skills, takes responsibility for her actions, and cultivates a sense of wonder and kindness in everything that she does. Throughout it all, she is confident in one thing above all: she can always find security and comfort in the arms of her family. Lyrical and heartwarming, with rich illustrations by debuting illustrator Saffa Khan, this elegant and charming story is a celebration of a mother's love.
Pecan Pie Baby
Pecan Pie Baby
Gia liked things the way they were, but now her mother is pregnant and all anyone talks about is the baby: her friends ask if she hopes for a boy or a girl, her relatives fuss over Mama, and even her teacher reads a story about being a big sister. Eventually, Gia explodes, yelling that she’s tired of hearing about the “DING-DANG BABY!” Fortunately, patient, understanding Mama is there to reassure her that, while many things will change, Gia will always have her mother. This lovely story is perfect for reminding a soon-to-be big sister that while time may get tighter, Mom’s love can encompass everyone.
Koala Lou
Koala Lou
As her family grows — and Mother Koala gets busier — she stops saying the words that Koala Lou loves to hear: "Koala Lou, I DO love you!" Koala Lou is determined to do something impressive to earn her mother's love again, and the Bush Olympics' gum-tree-climbing event seems perfect. She trains hard, despite aches and pains, sure she'll win her mother's attention. But when things don't go to according to her plan, Koala Lou's mother is there to reassure her that, no matter what, "Koala Lou, I DO love you!"
How to Raise a Mom
How to Raise a Mom
Mom normally raises the kids — but in this laugh-out-loud book from the How Too... series, the tables are turned! Two siblings provide step-by-step instructions for raising a happy, healthy mom, from waking her up in the morning (Mom's breakfast in bed of a whole pineapple, popcorn, and juice is sure to induce a belly laugh) to distracting her during a long wait in line with a snack and a toy. Give her some time to enjoy a playdate, and don't forget to make sure she eats her veggies! Most importantly, raising a mom takes lots of love — and she'll give you plenty in return. This book is the perfect way to celebrate moms, on Mother's Day or any time of the year.
Home Base: A Mother-Daughter Story
Home Base: A Mother-Daughter Story
A mother-daughter pair are each preparing for their biggest challenge yet. For the daughter, it's an attempt to prove herself on the pitcher's mound. For the mother, it's executing a big bricklaying job. Both face obstacles, including gender stereotypes and the hard work necessary to achieve your goals. But when they're done, they get to celebrate their victories together! With its simple, direct text and absorbing illustrations, this book celebrates all the things that girls and women can do — and how much more we can do with the support of the people we love.
Floating on Mama's Song / Flotando en la canción de mamá
Floating on Mama's Song / Flotando en la canción de mamá
Sometimes, it's Mom who needs support from her Mighty Girl! Anita's mother loves to sing — and her songs are so uplifting that, one day, the people and animals who hear her literally float in the air! But when the neighbors complain, Anita's Abuelita forbids Mama from singing — and the joy leaves Mama's eyes. And when Anita goes hunting for a cure for her Mama's sadness, she finds proof of an unexpected family gift...and a reason Mama's song should rise again. This lovely bilingual story, beautifully illustrated by Yuyi Morales' collage illustrations, celebrates a daughter's ability to bring happiness to her mother's life.
Imani's Moon
Imani's Moon
A mother can be a daughter's inspiration to do something great. Imani is the tiniest girl in her village, but her mother assures her that she can still do amazing things. Her mother's stories about Olapa, the moon goddess, inspire Imani's goal: she will touch the moon. Everyone laughs at her efforts, and her leaf wings take her nowhere close to the sky. Then, Imani sees the Maasai warriors performing the adumu jumping dance. A day of jumping later, and Imani greets Olapa — and brings home a moon rock to proudly show her mother. And that night, inspired by her mother's tales, it's Imani who is the storyteller, telling "The Tale of the Girl who Touched the Moon."
Borrowed Names: Poems About Laura Ingalls Wilder, Madam C.J. Walker, Marie Curie, and Their Daughters
Borrowed Names: Poems About Laura Ingalls Wilder, Madam C.J. Walker, Marie Curie, and Their Daughters
The relationship between mothers and daughters can mark both their lives forever. In this thought-provoking book of poetry, author Jeannine Atkins explores the relationship between several famous historic mother-daughter pairs, including Marie Curie and Irene Joliot-Curie. With her short biographical notes about each woman, and verse that invites readers to imagine the thoughts and emotions of each — pride, hope, curiosity, and more — this unique volume will encourage readers to see them not just as historical figures, but as real women, mothers and daughters.
B: A Poem
B: A Poem
Sarah Kay’s spoken word poem is now available in this beautiful picture book treatment illustrated by Sophia Janowitz. From its opening sentence — “If I should ever have a daughter, / instead of Mom, she’s going to call me Point B / Because that way she knows that no matter what happens, at least she can always find her way to me.” — this is a work that will capture your attention. Its powerful message about how a loving parent is there throughout the challenges and wonders of life is sure to inspire any mother.
Special Time Together
One of the things grown daughters treasure are the special times they remember with their mothers. From major family events to seemingly insignificant moments in time, these are the memories that will stay with her forever.
You Are My Happy
You Are My Happy
"What made us happy all day through? Let's count those things, just me and you." As a mama bear and her cub settle down to sleep, they talk about all the things that made them happy — everyday joys and wonders, simple pleasures, and most importantly, their love for one another. Lush illustrations from bestselling artist Suzie Mason show a variety of animal parents and children together, serving as a reminder that love is the best happy of all. Today Show host and author of I've Loved You Since Forever Hoda Kotb was inspired by her nighttime routine with her daughter, Haley Joy, to create this charming ode to gratitude.
Lola at the Library
Lola at the Library
If mother-daughter trips to the library are a fond part of the daily routine, be sure to check out this story! Lola’s excitement at her library visit is infectious — storytime and songs, the new books to check out, the treat on the way home — but best of all is when Mommy reads her a story at bedtime. Book-loving children — and mothers — will love this story from beginning to end. Fans of Lola can also follow her as she journeys towards being an independent reader in Lola Loves Stories and Lola Reads to Leo — and more of her adventures in the rest of the Lola Reads series.
Tisha and the Blossoms
Tisha and the Blossoms
Tisha's day starts with trying to catch a blossom in her backyard — only for Mommy to cry, "Hurry up, you'll be late for school!" At school she has to rush too, even when she wants to finish a drawing or just wants to enjoy the sights and sounds around her. So when Mommy picks her up, Tisha asks for "a little slowdown." Together, they can count cars, seagulls, and umbrellas, or sit on a bench and name the pigeons. And when they do, maybe the day will stop feeling so much of a rush... and start feeling like a special time for just the two of them. This is a gentle and exquisitely illustrated book about slowing down, being mindful, and sharing quiet moments with the people you love.
Mum, Me, and the Mulberry Tree
Mum, Me, and the Mulberry Tree
This little girl and her mother are up extra early for something special: a day picking mulberries! The sun is just rising when they get on the bus, snuggling close on the seats as they ride into the English countryside. There, they find their favorite mulberry tree, and start filling their buckets and tubs. A picnic lunch provides a nice break, and they shelter under the tree when it starts to rain. By the time the sun is setting, they're on their way home, ready for the final treat from the day's adventure: a delicious mulberry pie! This charming and gentle story about a mother-daughter tradition is a celebration of the abundance around us and of spending time with someone you love.
Saturday
Saturday
Ava and her mother have a very special Saturday routine that's just for them, including storytime at the library, hairdos at the salon, a picnic at the park... and this week, a very special puppet show! But today, everything goes wrong. At each step, Ava's mother reminds her of what they do to calm down when something goes wrong: "They paused, closed their eyes, and — whew! — let out a deep breath." But when it's Mom's mistake that ruins the last part of their day, Mom feels like she's going to fall apart — until Ava is able to remind her that the important thing about Saturday is that they are together. The author / illustrator behind Thank You, Omu! returns with a sweet story, full of radiant artwork, that reminds kids that the love between parent and child is more powerful than any disappointment.
Also
Also
This little girl is at her Gramma's house, exploring a hill full of blueberry bushes — but she's also remembering camping with her mom. Her grandmother is watching her out the kitchen window, and enjoying memories of seeing a bunny in her own mother's garden. And the girl's mother is walking to find her, but also thinking of when she used to pick berries and sort them in Gramma's kitchen. Each of them is here but also in the past... and their memories connect them, ever closer to one another. Beloved author/illustrator E. B. Goodale tells a meditative story about the bonds between mothers and daughters, the importance of memory, and the way love connects us, even across time.
My Mama Had A Dancing Heart
My Mama Had A Dancing Heart
A grown woman remembers how she and her mother used to welcome the change of every season: with a wild, exuberant, outdoor dance! From spring meadows to summer beaches, fall orchards to winter snow, their dance together celebrated the beauties of nature, the power of a joyful life, and the love they had for one another. Today, the woman — a ballerina about to go one stage — says another thank you to the mother who gave her a dancing heart. With elegant text and evocative illustrations, this tribute to a mother-daughter tradition might just inspire you to start your own.
Up: A Mother and Daughter's Peakbagging Adventure
Up: A Mother and Daughter's Peakbagging Adventure
Patricia Ellis Herr’s daughter Alex had so much energy from such a young age that Herr thought she might be able to tackle serious hikes at the age of 5 — not just long ones, but paths that might make adults struggle. Together, the pair climbed all 48 of New Hampshire’s highest mountains — and both mother and daughter learned a few lessons about independence, fearlessness, and daring. As Trish recount their exciting but sometimes nerve-wracking journeys, readers will celebrate the proof "that small doesn't necessarily mean weak; that girls can be strong; and that big, bold things are possible."
Not Always Eye to Eye
Of course, just because mother-daughter relationships are often close doesn’t mean that they are free from conflict. It’s a rare mother or child who hasn’t rolled her eyes at the other or wondered what on earth she was thinking. Fortunately, there are also lots of books that recognize that mothers and daughters who don’t see eye to eye still love each other.
Please, Baby, Please
Please, Baby, Please
Any parent of a toddler will recognize some of their day in this story. From “Go back to bed, baby, please, baby, please” in the middle of the night, to troubles at mealtimes, tantrums at the playground, and splashes over the side of the tub, both text and illustrations capture the frustrations of life with a busy little girl. But at the end, when Baby pleads, “Kiss me goodnight, Mama, Mama, Mama, please?” there’s no question what the last page will bring. And to see the tables turned on the toddlers, check out the sequel Please, Puppy, Please, in which a new pet shows the little girl just what it’s like when someone won’t listen to you!
The Ugly Vegetables
The Ugly Vegetables
When this little girl sets out to help her mother plant their garden in the spring, she can't help but compare their plants to the beautiful flowers their neighbors are growing. Why do her friends all get to grow colorful blossoms while she has to help tend a boring vegetable patch? But her mother assures her that "these are better than flowers," and when harvest time comes — and her mother starts cooking up a huge pot of vegetable soup — those ugly Chinese vegetables draw the whole neighborhood together, eager for a taste. Lin's story, which comes with a guide for the pronunciation of Chinese vegetable names and a recipe for Ugly Vegetable Soup, will speak to any mother and daughter who have struggled with cultural differences.
The Best Mother
The Best Mother
After another morning of face washing, teeth brushing, and hair combing, Maxine decides she's had enough — and informs her mother that she's decided to look for a new mother. (Since she can't drive, her "old mother" will of course have to help.) At the park, the toy store, and the zoo, Maxine asks new mother candidates how they would respond to different situations, but none of them is just right. In fact, Maxine realizes, there's only one mother who's done every single thing she asked about... With expressive illustrations and a storyline that will get readers chuckling, this "what if" story is sure to be a favorite.
Harriet, You'll Drive Me Wild!
Harriet, You'll Drive Me Wild!
Harriet is doesn’t MEAN to be a problem, but she still manages to make a tremendous mess — and a lot of work for her mother. When one final mishap puts Harriet’s Mom over the edge, she yells and yells. But in the end, after apologies in each direction, the loving pair are giggling together as they clean up the mess. This is the perfect book to remind Mom that hard days come and go, but the love is always there.
Just Dance
Just Dance
10-year-old Sylvie's mother used to be a famous opera singer, and her voice still delights her family when she sings in the shower, but Sylvia can't help but wonder why her mother would be willing to give up that glamorous life for their small Wyoming town — and such an ordinary family. Sylvie wants a more exciting life, and filling in for the summer writing the sheriff's log in the local newsletter (in free verse!) is at least a small step towards that. But as Sylvie spends the summer finding her voice, she'll also grow to understand why her mother is happy to call this simple town home. Sweet, subtle, and nuanced, the gentle pace and quiet humor of this story is a delight.
Ramona and Her Mother
Ramona and Her Mother
Mrs. Quimby has gone back to work, and to Ramona, it feels like their world is upside down. Without her mother at home, Ramona is too little to stay at home by herself, but too old to avoid being told to watch annoying Willa Jean. And every time she does something wrong, Ramona wonders if she still holds a place in her mother's heart. Fortunately, when she finally admits her fears, her mother is there to reassure her that she will always be loved. Ramona captures the tangled and uncertain feelings of school-aged kids perfectly. Fans of Ramona should also check out Ramona and Her Father, in which Ramona's dad reassures her that, even with tight times after a job loss, he wouldn't trade her for a million dollars.
Encouraging Bonding
To keep the bond between mother and daughter strong, it’s helpful to have activities that they do only together. These books will provide some ideas for ways Moms and daughters can learn more about each other, so that they get closer with every day.
A Book About Mom with Words and Pictures by Me
A Book About Mom with Words and Pictures by Me
Let kids pay tribute to their amazing moms with this keepsake book full of prompts, stickers, and more! Each page offers sentences to complete, pictures to draw, and more — from describing (and drawing) what you do on a rainy day to deciding if you go together like peanut butter and jelly, or like pirates and zombies! Kids will enjoy the creative prompts, including coming up with new house rules, imagining where in the world you'll travel together, and even what you'd take if you were stranded on a desert island together. And it ends with the best page of all: "This is us, having the greatest adventure ever. I love you, Mom!" For fathers, there is also a companion book, A Book About Dad with Words and Pictures by Me.
Just Between Us: Mother and Daughter
A No-Stress, No-Rules Journal
Just Between Us: Mother and Daughter
A No-Stress, No-Rules Journal
This bestselling guided journal helps moms and daughters establish fun, thought-provoking ways of communicating with each other! Meredith and Sophie Jacobs started sharing a journal when Sophie was nine, and they have applied their experiences to create this fun resource to help other mother-daughter pairs. With its thoughtful writing prompts and intergenerational advice woven throughout, this journal helps promote discussions about friends, school, crushes, and many of the other joys and difficulties faced growing up. The same authors have also created two follow-up volumes, Just Between Us: Sisters and Just Between Us: Grandmother and Granddaughter.
Mothering and Daughtering: Keeping Your Bond Strong Through the Teen Years
Mothering and Daughtering: Keeping Your Bond Strong Through the Teen Years
Many mothers assume that their relationship with their daughters will become strained in the teenage years — but what if mothers and daughters work together to make the teen years a time of closeness? This book offers two breakthrough guides in one: one for mothers, teaching them how to create a safe space for their daughters as they move into adulthood; and one for daughters, encouraging them to consider their mother their closest ally as they test out their independence. This insightful guide treats the mother/daughter relationship as a developing partnership, as a daughter moves from a dependent tween to a confident young adult setting out on her own.
The Mother-Daughter Book Club
How Ten Busy Mothers and Daughters Came Together to Talk, Laugh, and Learn Through Their Love of Reading
The Mother-Daughter Book Club
How Ten Busy Mothers and Daughters Came Together to Talk, Laugh, and Learn Through Their Love of Reading
One of the best ways to bond in A Mighty Girl’s opinion is to read good books together! In this guide, Mom will read the story of one mother-daughter book club, but also learn the practical steps to take to organize one of her own. Shireen Dodson believes that sharing ideas together like this has a strong effect on a daughter’s confidence, independence, and strength, while mothers enjoy watching their daughter’s mind blossom and grow. We couldn’t agree more!
Mothers give so much — sometimes seen and appreciated, other times not — and it’s only fitting to honor that special relationship, not just on one day, but throughout the year. Thanks for all that you do and a very happy Mother's Day to you from A Mighty Girl!
Additional Recommended Resources
- For more books for all ages that focus on the special relationships between mothers and daughters, visit our mother-daughter section.
- For parenting books about this important relationship, visit our Mother / Daughter Relationship section.
- If your family is an adoptive family, visit our section of books about adoption to celebrate your special relationship.