Fans pick 100 books like Oh No, George!

By Chris Haughton,

Here are 100 books that Oh No, George! fans have personally recommended if you like Oh No, George!. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Such a Good Boy

Davide Calì Author Of Where the World Ends: A Zip, Trik, and Flip Adventure

From my list on starring characters with four paws.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a children's books author and a cartoonist. I’ve published more than 160 books, most of them are picture books but I’ve also published comics and novels. I work for many French magazines, writing comics and short tales. I usually travel the world to see kids at school or give lessons. I’m also an art director for a literary factory based in London. I play the electric guitar and sometimes I write songs.

Davide's book list on starring characters with four paws

Davide Calì Why did Davide love this book?

I love Marianna’s work. She has been one of my students and since she left school she’s doing great! Buz is a lucky dog. He lives in a luxury house, he got someone taking care of him and he got good and healthy food. Buz is a good dog, but sometimes, he would like to be free of running wild and rolling in the mud.

By Marianna Coppo,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Such a Good Boy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

The ultimate kids' book about dogs, being good, being bad, and being yourself!

From the award-winning, critically acclaimed author of Petra.

Meet Buzz the dog.

He's such a good boy.

Buzz seems to have a perfect life .. .

and a lot of very well-behaved friends.

Buzz would never dream of being anything other than good.

Right, Buzz?
Buzz . . . ?

For anyone who has ever felt pressure to be "good" at the expense of their own self-expression, and for anyone who has ever owned and loved a dog, this beautifully illustrated picture book from author-illustrator Marianna Coppo…


Book cover of Say Hello to Zorro!

Davide Calì Author Of Where the World Ends: A Zip, Trik, and Flip Adventure

From my list on starring characters with four paws.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a children's books author and a cartoonist. I’ve published more than 160 books, most of them are picture books but I’ve also published comics and novels. I work for many French magazines, writing comics and short tales. I usually travel the world to see kids at school or give lessons. I’m also an art director for a literary factory based in London. I play the electric guitar and sometimes I write songs.

Davide's book list on starring characters with four paws

Davide Calì Why did Davide love this book?

Every time I read this one I can hear the voice of Emmanuelle Beulque, my French publisher, while she’s reading it to me. I was in Paris, in Sarbacane’s bureau and this was a new book they were about to translate from the USA. She was so excited about it that she read it to me. Making someone read a book is one of the best things, even when you’re a grown-up.

Zorro is a lovely dog who lives a lovely life. He has his own armchair, his own toys, his own food bowl, and, most important of all, his own time for everything: morning wake up, a morning stroll, nap after lunch. But one day, it comes home a new dog…

By Carter Goodrich, Carter Goodrich (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Say Hello to Zorro! as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Mister Bud is a dog of routine. He has wake up time, nap time, rest time, dinner time, etc. And everyone knows to follow his schedule.

Then disaster strikes. A stranger comes home at "make a fuss time" and throws everything off! Zorro is little bit bossy and Mister Bud wants nothing to do with him. But when the dogs discover they like the same things (like chasing the cat and napping), everything becomes more fun. As long as everyone follows the schedule.


Book cover of It's Only Stanley

Idris Goodwin Author Of Your House Is Not Just a House

From my list on books to read aloud to children.

Why am I passionate about this?

From my work as a playwright and breakbeat poet, Artistic Director of Seattle Children’s Theatre, and full-time co-parent, I've dedicated my career to crafting engaging narratives that resonate across generations. With over sixty original plays to my name, I've honed a unique approach that intertwines hip-hop rhythms with rich storytelling. My debut picture book is a testament to this approach—inviting children and parents to discover the boundless creativity that can be found in everyday spaces. It’s my hope that this book inspires families to explore their homes with fresh eyes and open hearts, turning reading into an adventure of imagination.

Idris' book list on books to read aloud to children

Idris Goodwin Why did Idris love this book?

The rhythm and rhyme are masterfully tight, making it a perfect read-aloud that captures children's attention from start to finish. Jon Agee's words and images marry harmoniously and perfectly, propelling the quirky storyline.

As someone who appreciates the impactful harmony of words and visuals from my theater and hip-hop background, I find this book a delightful example of storytelling that both children and adults can enjoy.

By Jon Agee,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked It's Only Stanley as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

'The Wimbledons were sleeping. It was very, very late, When Wilma heard a spooky sound, Which made her sit up straight. "That's very odd," said Walter. "I don't recognize the tune..." "It's only Stanley," Walter said. "He's howling at the moon."' Whoever heard of a dog who can sing, cook and do DIY around the house? He makes a lot of noise and mess, but he's forgiven as does mend the TV. Not until the very end do we, or the hapless Wimbledon family, see just exactly what Stanley the dog has been planning all along!


Book cover of Ralf

Davide Calì Author Of Where the World Ends: A Zip, Trik, and Flip Adventure

From my list on starring characters with four paws.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a children's books author and a cartoonist. I’ve published more than 160 books, most of them are picture books but I’ve also published comics and novels. I work for many French magazines, writing comics and short tales. I usually travel the world to see kids at school or give lessons. I’m also an art director for a literary factory based in London. I play the electric guitar and sometimes I write songs.

Davide's book list on starring characters with four paws

Davide Calì Why did Davide love this book?

Jean Jullien is one of my best favorite illustrators of the moment. Everything he does, whatever it is, a book or a poster, is simply amazing. And super funny. Like this book about a dog named Ralf.

Ralf is a long, very long, dog. It takes a lot of space when he lays on the bed or simply walks around the house. At one point he’s much too long to stay home so he has to sleep outside. But one night… Ok, ok, no spoiler again!

By Jean Jullien,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Ralf as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

¡Uy! ¡Huele a humo! Ralf sale corriendo de su caseta para avisar a sus amos del peligro?, pero ¡sus cuartos traseros se quedan atrapados en la trampilla de la puerta! Entonces ocurre algo increíble. ¡El cuerpo de Ralf se estira, se alarga y se extiende sin fin!


Book cover of Bark, George

Sara Levine Author Of Bone by Bone: Comparing Animal Skeletons

From my list on for engaging kids on Zoom and FaceTime.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m an award-winning author of picture books for kids. I’m also a veterinarian and science educator, and many of my books have a STEM focus. I write books that are interactive, engaging, and playful. I do this by using humor and by writing in a question-and-answer format that encourages children to think and call out answers before the page-turn. During this time when so many of us have not been able to be in the same room with the kids we read with and to, I’ve found interactive books to be the best at holding attention and connecting. I hope they work well for you, too.

Sara's book list on for engaging kids on Zoom and FaceTime

Sara Levine Why did Sara love this book?

This is my all-time favorite read-aloud. And not just because it features a veterinarian! George the puppy’s mom is disappointed with him because he doesn’t bark. She brings him to the vet for help. On each page, the vet asks George to bark, but instead he makes an incorrect animal’s sound. When George “meows” the vet reaches down inside of George and pulls out a… Yes, you guessed it – a cat! Kids can anticipate and call out which animals the vet will extract from poor George on each page turn. Hilarity ensues. And, in the final spread, something completely unexpected and unexplained happens, perfect for a great post-book discussion. This one never fails to captivate a group of kids—which is really why I adore it.

By Jules Feiffer,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Bark, George as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Named one of 100 Great Children’s Books by The New York Public Library and #9 on School Library Journal’s list of the Top 100 Picture Books!

From acclaimed author-illustrator Jules Feiffer, Bark, George is a hilarious, subversive story about a dog who can't . . . bark! This picture book geared for the youngest readers is perfect for those who love Mo Willems's Pigeon series.

When George's mother tells her son to bark, George goes "Meow," which definitely isn't right because George is a dog. When she asks him again, he goes "Oink." What's going on with George? Readers will…


Book cover of Everybody Says Meow

Sheri Dillard Author Of Cowhide-And-Seek

From my list on picture books for preschool storytimes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been a preschool teacher for several years, and now I’m a preschool librarian. When I was teaching, storytime was my favorite part of the day, so when I was offered the spot of librarian, I happily took it! I have storytimes in all the classes, which range in age from 1-year-olds up to PreK and kindergarten classes. My favorite moments are when the children are connecting to each other in some way, like sharing a laugh together. Such joy! Ultimately, the best books for preschool storytimes are the ones that a reader is excited to share, with the hope that the kids will love them, too. 

Sheri's book list on picture books for preschool storytimes

Sheri Dillard Why did Sheri love this book?

At storytimes, I see firsthand the value of a good page turn. There’s anticipation. And excitement. And…then…the…page…turns… Oh! Is there a surprise? Something funny?  

Everybody Says Meow has the best page turns. The story starts with a cat talking to the reader. He’s standing with his cat-friends and explains that it’s time for everybody to say meow. “Ready?” he asks. 

On the next page, all the cats are happily saying, “Meow!” BUT—there’s also a dog, peeking around the edge of the page. With a smile and a friendly wave, he says, “Woof!” 

The story continues with these page-turn surprises, and the kids eagerly await the next animal to peek around the page. I love how I have to pause my reading and wait for the laughter to quiet down.

By Constance Lombardo,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Everybody Says Meow as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

"The messages of inclusion and acceptance are welcome. An enjoyable addition to noisy storytimes." -Kirkus

Everybody Says Meow! Or do they? Fans of Sandra Boynton and of Jules Feiffer's classic Bark, George will meow, bark, and ribbit when they hear this hilarious picture book about a waggish group of adorable animals that just cannot follow one simple instruction.

"Welcome to that magical time when everybody says, 'Meow!' Ready?"

Well, not quite. There's also a "Woof." And a "Ribbit."

A few words and a minimal background can make for plenty of mischief-especially when your characters are adorable, delightfully silly, and probably…


Book cover of Is Everyone Ready for Fun?

Sheri Dillard Author Of Cowhide-And-Seek

From my list on picture books for preschool storytimes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been a preschool teacher for several years, and now I’m a preschool librarian. When I was teaching, storytime was my favorite part of the day, so when I was offered the spot of librarian, I happily took it! I have storytimes in all the classes, which range in age from 1-year-olds up to PreK and kindergarten classes. My favorite moments are when the children are connecting to each other in some way, like sharing a laugh together. Such joy! Ultimately, the best books for preschool storytimes are the ones that a reader is excited to share, with the hope that the kids will love them, too. 

Sheri's book list on picture books for preschool storytimes

Sheri Dillard Why did Sheri love this book?

I love Jan Thomas’s books! This one starts with three charming cows who are excited to see a red sofa. “Look!” they say. “It’s chicken’s sofa!”

Why are they excited? One page-turn later and PLOP! The cows are all squished together, sitting on the sofa. “Is everyone ready for fun?” they ask. 

Turns out, the cows have lots of plans for this sofa. Jumping! Dancing! Wiggling! Poor chicken tries to get them to stop, but these fun-loving cows don’t notice the effect of their “fun” on chicken’s sofa. 

I love having the kids act out each scene of jumping, dancing, wiggling, and the final satisfying page. Books that get kids engaged, whether with a catchy refrain or physical actions are fun. (And like those cows, we are ready for fun!)

By Jan Thomas,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Is Everyone Ready for Fun? as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Chicken has some unexpected and exuberant cow visitors who have exciting plans for jumping, dancing, and wiggling on his teeny-tiny couch, and Chicken is none too happy about it. That is until the fun concludes with a quiet, cozy and delicious nap for all!


Book cover of Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type

Sheri Dillard Author Of Cowhide-And-Seek

From my list on picture books for preschool storytimes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been a preschool teacher for several years, and now I’m a preschool librarian. When I was teaching, storytime was my favorite part of the day, so when I was offered the spot of librarian, I happily took it! I have storytimes in all the classes, which range in age from 1-year-olds up to PreK and kindergarten classes. My favorite moments are when the children are connecting to each other in some way, like sharing a laugh together. Such joy! Ultimately, the best books for preschool storytimes are the ones that a reader is excited to share, with the hope that the kids will love them, too. 

Sheri's book list on picture books for preschool storytimes

Sheri Dillard Why did Sheri love this book?

Yay for cow books! Cows can be so charming, and these cows are extra-special—they’ve learned how to type! And they use their new skill to make one polite request. They would like electric blankets. Sincerely, they would. 

I’ve mentioned how much I enjoy humor and a satisfying page-turn. This book showcases another feature that works well for storytimes—a fun refrain. 

Click, clack, moo.

Click, clack, moo.

Clickety, clack, moo.

I have kids say it with me. “Click, clack, mooo!” we say as we watch poor Farmer Brown react to each note. The ending is funny and satisfying and leaves us with a slight twist on this repeated refrain. Sometimes, I’ll hear the kids saying it throughout the day as I walk from class to class. “Click, clack, mooooo!”

By Doreen Cronin, Betsy Lewin (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Click, Clack, Moo as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin’s Caldecott Honor–winning book is celebrating its twenty-year anniversary with a brand-new edition featuring bonus content!

Click, clack, MOO.
Click, clack, MOO.
Clickety, clack, MOO.

It was the typewriter heard ‘round the world. When Farmer Brown’s cows began leaving him notes, that’s when his troubles started—and the animals’ fun commenced! Celebrate twenty years of barnyard shenanigans with this special anniversary edition of the story that started it all, Click, Clack, Moo—now with a bonus poster in the inside cover!


Book cover of Dog in Charge

Karen Kaufman Orloff Author Of Dudley's Day at Home

From my list on books about dogs from a dog person.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have always been a dog person. Sometimes, I think I am a dog whisperer, as I feel like the dogs in my life have always understood me, just like I understood them. They were often so human-like that I wondered what they did at the house when I was out. So, it didn’t take much of a leap to come up with the idea of “Dudley’s Day at Home,” where Dudley and his best cat pal, Buttercup, enjoy lots of human activities while Sam and his mother are away. 

Karen's book list on books about dogs from a dog person

Karen Kaufman Orloff Why did Karen love this book?

This is a very funny picture book about an obedient dog who is just trying to do the right thing –watching the somewhat unruly cats while the owners are out.

I love the relationship between the cats, who love the dog, and the dog as a responsible “babysitter.” It’s wonderfully written with humor and heart. Fun pictures, too! 

By K L Going, Dan Santat (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Dog in Charge as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

When the going gets tough, Dog . . . takes a nap

Dog can Sit.
He can Stay.
He can even Dance.
But when he's in charge, can he keep the cats in line?
All one, two, three, four, five of them?

Illustrated by Caldecott winner, Dan Santat, and packed full of slapstick silliness and utterly earnest charm, Dog will quickly wiggle his way into preschoolers' hearts.


Book cover of Pepper & Boo: A Cat Surprise!

Jen de Oliveira Author Of Reggie: Kid Penguin

From my list on comics starring cute and funny animals.

Why am I passionate about this?

Before I was an author-illustrator, I was an elementary school teacher for many years. One of my favorite things about teaching was reading to students and helping them find books they love. Seeing kids connect with books motivated me to write and illustrate books; the character Reggie is very much inspired by my young students! Humorous books with lots of pictures often get kids hooked on reading, which is why I’ve selected funny graphic novels for this list. There’s no shortage of great comics for kids, so I chose books I also would have loved as a kid–silly and sweet, starring animal characters with real, kid-like feelings.

Jen's book list on comics starring cute and funny animals

Jen de Oliveira Why did Jen love this book?

As a cat person (who also loves dogs), I was chuckling throughout this silly short story. The uncluttered panels make the book easy to read, and the simple dialogue and adorable characters make it fun to read. I was cheering for Boo, a nervous blue-colored dog, the entire time. (Don’t tell my cats!)

By Charise Mericle Harper,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Pepper & Boo as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 6, 7, 8, and 9.

What is this book about?

Charise Mericle Harper (Crafty Cat, Just Grace, Fashion Kitty) delivers another hilarious and charming early graphic novel series starring Pepper and Boo, two darling dogs, and their suspicious housemate, the cat.

Meet Pepper and Boo. They are two dogs who do not know much about cats. (Who does?) They wonder why the cat sleeps so much (in their beds!), licks itself so much, what the cat is thinking, and what makes the cat happy.

Luckily, the cat can explain. The cat knows a lot about being a cat. They know a cat will sleep anywhere (a box, a keyboard, a…


Book cover of Such a Good Boy
Book cover of Say Hello to Zorro!
Book cover of It's Only Stanley

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