Having siblings can be tough sometimes, but it can also be wonderful! These books portray a wide variety of relationships between brothers and sisters, including when a new baby joins the family.
Picture Books and Younger Elementary
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Fra)
Series: Boss Baby
Boss Baby used to be in charge of his family, but that was before he got an even bossier baby sister. While his new sister enjoys the perks of being family CEO, Boss Baby struggles with his sudden demotion. This charming sequel to The Boss Baby portrays the negative feelings one may have when adjusting to a new sibling in the house. Recommended for ages 3-6.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Oho)
Sisters Elise and Rosemont get along most of the time, except when Rosemont copies everything Elise does! This book is relatable to anyone who has ever been frustrated by a copycat–er, copydog–before. Cute canine characters, funny situations, and a sweet ending make this sibling story a winner! Recommended for ages 4–7.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Rea)
Series: How To
Soon-to-be older siblings can learn how to be involved when the new baby arrives in this funny picture book guide. Tips include helping parents and relatives, making the baby laugh, and teaching the baby new things. Kids wondering about their role in the family once a baby arrives will be reassured in this upbeat, charming book. Recommended for ages 4-8.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Bea)
All hail King Baby! A newborn baby demands that his subjects (otherwise known as his parents) follow his demands, no matter how ridiculous. A humorous take on meeting the needs of a new baby from popular comics artist Kate Beaton. Recommended for ages 3-6.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Ros)
Little Miss will be a big sis! And once the baby arrives, she’ll help the baby feel cared for and loved. This heartwarming book demonstrates the joy of being a big sister in short and sweet rhymes. Recommended for ages 4-8.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Dip)
“Littles” are loved and cherished in this tender ode to infants. Cute rhymes and illustrations show babies being playful, cuddly, and cared for. A great book to read to young, soon-to-be siblings! Recommended for ages 3-7.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Fra)
Series: Littlest Yak
Gertie, the littlest yak, is going to be a big sister! She’s ready to share her toys with the new baby, but when she realizes she’ll have to share her mum as well, she wonders… Does Mummy have enough space in her heart for two little yaks? Cute illustrations accompany a heartwarming story that will reassure new siblings that parents will love them just as much when a new baby arrives. Recommended for ages 3-8.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Fin)
Sometimes, Lulu and her older sister Zoey don’t share, and sometimes, they argue. But after their aunt intervenes and they spend some time apart, they forget their fight and work together. This rhyming picture book follows the highs and lows of being sisters. Recommended for ages 4-8.
(Juvenile First Chapter Books - J-FC Allen)
Series: Maddie and Mabel
Maddie likes to be in charge, and Mabel likes to ask questions. These two sisters spend their days playing, telling stories, and sometimes fighting. Young readers who like Bluey will enjoy the girls’ loving yet quirky relationship. Recommended for ages 4–8.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Mal)
Caroline is usually organized and calm, but today is an unusual day! She seems distracted and forgetful at school. When her parents pick her up, Caroline finally gets to meet her newly adopted baby sister! This picture book is a fresh look at adoption and the anxiety kids feel right before a new sibling arrives. Recommended for ages 4-8.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Gre)
A little girl misses her big brother, who is incarcerated, and feels a complex mix of emotions about him. When she sees him during visiting hours, her anxiety melts away and she remembers that even though her brother isn’t home, his love hasn’t changed. Children with incarcerated older siblings or family members will relate to this story and hopefully feel less lonely. Recommended for ages 4-10.
(Juvenile Nonfiction - J 306.875 Lac)
Series: Dealing With...
“What if I don’t want a baby in the house?” “What if Mommy gets sick?” “Why is the baby so boring?” This nonfiction book addresses several common worries and complaints about new babies from older siblings, along with positive ways to respond. A great resource for parent/child discussions when a new addition to the family is expected! Recommended for ages 6-10.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Von)
Olivia loves her favorite red sweater! But Olivia is growing bigger, and her sweater is feeling smaller. One day, she finds her baby brother wearing it! Her mom says it’s time to hand the sweater down, but Olivia wants it back. An adorable story about sharing with siblings. Recommended for ages 4-6.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Pen)
Being a big brother is a big job, but it’s also a lot of fun! The older brother in this charming picture book proudly teaches his infant brother how to have adventures and share, demonstrating that brothers can become the best of friends. Recommended for ages 2-6.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Van)
Parents welcome their new baby home in this sweet, lyrical ode. When read aloud, this book will express to children how much joy they bring to their parents. Also available as a board book. Recommended for ages birth–2.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Luk)
When Aidan’s parents tell him that he’s going to be a big brother, he’s excited to help pick out clothes and paint for the new baby. However, his anxiety grows when he questions whether or not he made the perfect decisions for his new sibling. After all, everyone thought Aidan was a girl when he was born, and it took some time before Aidan and his parents realized that he’s a trans boy. Aiden learns that the most important part of being a brother is knowing how to love someone. Recommended for ages 3-8.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Dyc)
The Bunny family brings home a new baby wolf, but little Dot just knows he’s going to eat them all up. Even as Wolfie grows and grows, Dot fails to convince her smitten parents that he means to cause them harm. But when Wolfie is in trouble, it’s Dot who must protect her little brother. A funny story about sibling rivalry with charming animal illustrations. Recommended for ages 3-8.
Older Elementary
(Juvenile Graphic Novels - J-GN Bagley Duel)
Lucy and Gigi fight all the time since the death of their father, but their fighting reaches a new level when Lucy challenges Gigi to a fencing duel before their whole middle school! This graphic novel is perfect for readers who have experienced the complicated mix of bullying and friendship from siblings. Fans of Raina Telgemeier (Sisters) will enjoy this! Recommended for ages 9-12.
(Juvenile Nonfiction - J 618.2 Gre)
This nonfiction book is a detailed, straightforward explanation of the birth cycle, from conception to gestation to giving birth. Biologically accurate and inclusive, it’s an excellent guide for siblings who want to know where babies come from. Recommended for ages 9–12.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Ati)
Series: Sona Sharma
Sona enjoys being an only child, so when Amma tells her she’s going to be a big sister, she doesn’t like the idea of sharing her family. Sona then learns about namakarna, a naming ceremony for when the new baby is born. She soon becomes determined to find the perfect name for her baby sibling! Recommended for ages 9-12.