Have you ever thought about the fact that Easter should be an even bigger deal than Christmas?  The goal of Christmas, after all, was Easter.  Christ was born so that he could live a sinless life, die in the place of sinners, and rise again as a promise of eternal life to those who believe in him.  Yet, for myself and many others, Easter ends up feeling like an afterthought.

That’s one reason I struggled to think of a list of favorite Easter books…or even Easter books in general.  When I started searching my library, though, I was amazed by the long list of options I turned up, and I ended up with a stack of books to try.  The following are some of the highlights that I’ve managed to finish on short notice.  I’ve listed them in increasing age order—hint: my favorite one is the last on the list, so make sure to read to the end.

An Easter Egg Hunt for Jesus / Susan Jones (illustrated by Lee Holland)—With its cute animal characters and simple story, this picture book would make for a pleasant read-aloud for little ones.  The book reminds readers of the wonder of the empty tomb.

God Gave Us Easter / Lisa Twan Bergren (illustrated by Laura J. Bryant)—This board book surprised me.  I was expecting a fluffy read.  Instead, I got a remarkably comprehensive overview of the Gospel story with insights that highlight the Gospel’s Easter message—all told in a winsome manner with polar bear main characters.

The Tale of Three Trees / Angela Elwell Hunt—This one’s from my Christmas review archives, but as with Handel’s Messiah, some of the best Christmas stories are Easter ones as well.  Read my full review here.

The Story of the Easter Robin / Dandi Daley Mackall (illustrated by Anna Vojtech)—One of my favorite things about picture books is when the author has a personal connection to the story he or she is telling.  In this case, Dandi Mackall shares her Pennsylvania Dutch heritage and some of their Easter legends and traditions.  Robins really are a joyful first sign of spring, and this picture book and its legends make this perky little bird even more special.

The Legend of the Sand Dollar / Chris Auer (illustrated by Richard Cowdrey)—An anonymous poem inspired this story about the sand dollar and its connection to Easter (and Christmas).  Now, I want to go to the beach to look at sand dollars more closely!

Bare Tree and Little Wind / Mitali Perkins (illustrated by Khoa Le)—Vibrant, gilded illustrations that nod to Asian and Middle Eastern art styles, but with a modern twist that’s all its own and perfect for children.  This story gives new imagery to the idea of trees clapping their hands (Isaiah 55:12).  I had never thought about how palm fronds and how they clap and flap in the wind.  When I’ve pictured trees clapping their hands, I guess I always pictured the oaks I’m familiar with!  I love it when little books like this one bring new perspectives on familiar ideas.

Happy Easter!