Here are our top ten picture books of the year, voted for by Readings staff. Displayed in no particular order.

A Lion in Paris by Beatrice Alemagna

A young lion with an explorer’s heart ventures forth from the familiar grasslands of his home to the bustling streets of Paris. There, he is mesmerised by its wonders until he discovers a plinth where he can rest – and hold centre stage! Artfully produced in the style of montage this book will appeal to all.

Natalie Platten

The Butterfly House by Sarah Smith

A charming story about two children and their cat visiting Grandma for the day. She has a delightful greenhouse full of butterflies that prove irresistible to the cat and chaotic fun ensues. Beautifully illustrated, this offbeat story will bewitch children as they wonder at Grandma’s mysterious transformation. For ages 3 and up.

Alexa Dretzke

Gaston by Kelly DiPucchio and illustrated by Christian Robinson

Mrs Poodle loves her four puppies, Fi-Fi, Foo-Foo, Ooh-La-La and Gaston. Three are very poodley but then there is sweet Gaston! Has there been a mix up at birth? Mrs Bulldog seems to have three pups who look like her and one who looks suspiciously like a poodle. One day they all meet at the park and, well, find out for yourselves! For ages 2 and up.

Alexa Dretzke

Have You Seen My Dragon? by Steve Light

There’s so much to discover in this elaborately drawn picture book with its gorgeous pen and ink illustrations. Explore the city with a small boy who’s searching for his friend, a magnificent dragon. This is a glorious, fun-filled expedition with much to see, find and learn – all as you count from 1 to 20!

Athina Clarke

Tiny: The Invisible World of Microbes by Nicola Davies and illustrated by Emily Sutton

To convey the true wonder of the scientific world to younger children requires great skill and to inform yet entertain demands art. This amazing book does both and will inspire the scientist in every child. Highly recommended for ages 5 and up.

Athina Clarke

Mix it Up! by Hervé Tullet

A thematic sequel to the divine Press Here, Mix it Up! is a physically compelling read! With his signature charm, Tullet has once again created a modern classic that will appeal to all ages. From those just learning their colours through to adults, it’s impossible to resist his surprising experience of mixing colours in paints!

Isobel Moore

Whale in the Bath by Kylie Westaway and illustrated by Tom Jellett

It’s time for Bruno’s bath, but uh oh! There’s a whale in the bath! What is he to do? This picture book is an absolute delight and the illustrations are beautiful. Children will love discovering Bruno’s dilemma with him and find his frustration at his family’s lack of belief sweet and engaging.

Isobel Moore

Louise Loves Art by Kelly Light

This will resonate with a lot of families. Take one confident eldest child, add one adoring younger sibling, complete the picture with an expressive cat and you have a story that can be enjoyed through all three perspectives. Cute, funny and heart-warming.

Emily Gale

The Memory of an Elephant: An Unforgettable Journey by Sophie Strady and illustrated by Jean-François Martin

Marcel is an old elephant who’s decided to list everything he’s learned throughout his life. The result is part-picture book, part-encyclopedia, with equal appeal to adults and children. Marcel’s encyclopedia is fascinating and whimsical, capturing the reality of the random bits of information that individuals amass, and the key memories we return to in old age. A profound and beautiful oddball.

Emily Gale

Sticks and Stones, Animal Homes by Tai Snaith

Melbourne author and artist Tai Snaith has created a delightful narrative journey around the world visiting unusual animals and their unique homes. All are lovingly drawn in their natural environment – with an added touch of style, such as the muskrat who wears a suit as he swims home to his modernist pad.

Angela Crocombe