April 5, 2026

Wordless Picture Books: No Words, All Magic

No words. All magic. ✨

View this post on Instagram →

These are the books featured in this post — tap any cover to find it on Amazon.

Cover of Good Dog Carl

Good Dog Carl

by Alexandra Day

Available in paperback for the first time, the modern classic that introduced the beloved baby-sitting rottweiler to the world.

Cover of Flotsam

Flotsam

by David Wiesner

a camera washed ashore full of impossible secrets — pure visual wonder

Cover of Journey

Journey

by Aaron Becker

a girl, a red crayon, and a world that opens the moment she draws the door

Cover of The Lion and the Mouse

The Lion and the Mouse

by Jerry Pinkney

Aesop's fable told entirely in pictures — a Caldecott Medal winner for good reason

Cover of Goodnight Gorilla

Goodnight Gorilla

by Peggy Rathmann

"Good night, Gorilla," says the zookeeper. But mischievous Gorilla isn't quite ready to go to sleep. He'd rather follow the zookeeper on his rounds and let all of the other animals out of their cages. Little night owls can sneak along with Gorilla and see who gets the last laugh in this riotous goodnight romp. Practically wordless yet full of expressive art and hilarious, adorable detail, this book from Caldecott Medal winning author Peggy Rathmann is sure to become a beloved part of children's own bedtime rituals. ALA Notable Children's Book for 1994 Bulletin Blue Ribbon 1994 Horn Book Fanfare 1995 selection Parenting Magazine "Best Children's Books of 1994" New York Public Library 1995 "Children's Books 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing" "In a book economical in text and simple in illustrations, the many amusing, small details, as well as the tranquil tome of the story, make this an outstanding picture book." --The Horn Book, starred review “The amiable cartoon characters, vibrant palette, and affectionate tone of the author’s art recall Thatcher Hurd’s cheerful illustrations. Delightful.”--Kirkus Reviews, starred review "A clever, comforting bedtime story." --School Library Journal, starred review "Jaunty four-color artwork carries the story and offers more with every look." --Booklist

As an Amazon Associate, XO Your Book Fairy earns from qualifying purchases. Bookshop.org links may also earn a commission.