Storybooks with France - Storybook Lists

If you’re traveling to France as a family, check out these books that will get kids excited about France and will expose them to the country’s culture and history.

Books are available on Bookshop.org, where your purchase helps support independent bookstores.

Traveling to France The Amazing Adventures of Aya and Pete in Paris is good for younger readers and includes a map and teaches younger readers some French words. For an introduction to all of the France, try When Imani Smiles in France, that follows a five-year-old as he learns about France. For older readers, try Mission Paris: A Scavenger Adventure that includes fun facts, a spy-themed scavenger hunt across the French capital.

Books Set in France. Reading books set in the country you’re traveling to is a great way to provide an introduction to the country. For elementary-age readers, try the Caldecott Medal winner Mirette on the High Wire, set among nineteenth-century Parisian acrobats. Also for elementary readers, follow Madeline across nighttime Paris in Madeline and the Old House in Paris. For older readers, try another Caldecott Medal winner, The Invention of Hugo Cabret is historical fiction with captivating illustrations following the orphan clock keeper and thief, Hugo, in a secret mystery.

Art & History. Linnea in Monet’s Garden follows young Linnea as she explores Monet’s garden and learns about Impressionism. How Science Saved the Eiffel Tower is the biography of the engineer whose clever plan saved the tower from being destroyed.

Language. A great way to introduce kids to French, French Picture Dictionary Coloring Book features illustrations and more than 1500 words for kids to color as they travel.

The complete list is below. If you or your family have other favorites, please let me know!