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Sandra Boynton Books in Order

All Sandra Boynton books in order, with short summaries, series notes, and easy where-to-start picks for board books, picture books, and her music projects.

Last updated: June 7, 2026

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101 books

Gopher Baroque and Other Beastly Conceits

by Sandra Boynton

1979

A collection of Sandra Boynton’s early animal cartoons, packed with wordplay, oddball observations, and visual jokes. The humor leans clever and slightly absurd, with creatures behaving badly and making puns about it. A grown-up side of Boynton.

Hester in the Wild

by Sandra Boynton

1979

Hester heads out into the wild with big confidence and a sense of adventure. Along the way, nature proves surprising and a little overwhelming, in the funniest possible way. A classic Boynton story about curiosity, nerves, and trying again.

If at First ...

by Sandra Boynton

1980

A determined little mouse tries again and again to move a very uncooperative elephant up a hill. Each attempt gets more inventive, and the rhythm makes the persistence feel like a game. A funny, encouraging picture book about not quitting.

The Compleat Turkey

by Sandra Boynton

1980

A whimsical, illustrated celebration of turkeys, mixing humor with a lightly “official” tone. It plays with turkey facts, turkey feelings, and turkey absurdity, in classic Boynton style. A quirky gift book for anyone who takes holidays seriously.

But Not the Hippopotamus

by Sandra Boynton

1982

A parade of animals splash, prance, and play together, and one shy hippopotamus watches from the side. The rhyming refrain builds until the hippo finally joins in, to everyone’s delight.

Chocolate, the Consuming Passion

by Sandra Boynton

1982

A compact, illustrated love letter to chocolate that leans funny instead of precious. It collects sharp little observations, cravings, and jokes, all wrapped in Boynton’s signature animal art. A classic gift for serious chocolate people.

Moo, Baa, La La La!

by Sandra Boynton

1982

A classic animal-sounds book that invites kids to “correct” the silly wrong noises. The rhythm is simple and memorable, and the pages are built for chanting. A go-to first Boynton book for babies and toddlers.

Opposites

by Sandra Boynton

1982

A bright, rhythmic introduction to opposites, using bold animals and quick contrasts. The pairings are easy for toddlers to grasp, and the rhymes make the concepts stick. A simple concept book with plenty of personality.

The Going to Bed Book

by Sandra Boynton

1982

A boat full of animal friends runs through a silly bedtime routine: bath, pajamas, and brushing teeth. Just when the lights go out, they do one last surprising activity that makes grown-ups laugh and kids ask for a reread.

A to Z

by Sandra Boynton

1984

From Aardvarks admiring to Zebras zig-zagging, this alphabet book runs on alliteration and animal antics. Each letter gets a quick, memorable line. It’s playful enough to feel like a story, not a lesson.

Blue Hat, Green Hat

by Sandra Boynton

1984

Four animals demonstrate getting dressed, but one turkey can’t quite get it right. Hats become socks, colors get mixed up, and the simple word “Oops!” lands like a perfect punchline again and again.

Doggies

by Sandra Boynton

1984

Count to ten with an enthusiastic pack of doggies, plus one unimpressed cat. The barks and counting build in a steady rhythm, making it easy for toddlers to join in. Simple, loud, and very rereadable.

Horns to Toes and in Between

by Sandra Boynton

1984

A tour of animal bodies, from horns and hooves to toes and tails. The pages invite kids to point, name, and notice, with Boynton’s bold illustrations doing most of the work. A fun, low-pressure anatomy lesson for toddlers.

Chloe and Maude

by Sandra Boynton

1985

Chloe and Maude are best friends with very different ideas, and that’s exactly the point. Through a few short stories, creativity, confidence, and friendship get tested in funny, tender ways. A charming picture book about being yourself together.

Good Night, Good Night

by Sandra Boynton

1985

A boatload of animals winds down for bedtime, with routines that feel familiar and just a little silly. Two rabbits sing everyone to sleep, and the book includes the song so you can make it part of your own nightly ritual.

Hey! What's That?

by Sandra Boynton

1985

A touch-and-feel guessing game that asks readers to identify animals one clue at a time. Little fingers slide through holes and rub textured spots, turning each page into a small discovery. Built for curious toddlers who want to participate.

Don't Let the Turkeys Get You Down

by Sandra Boynton

1986

A funny pep talk in picture-book form, offering upbeat advice from a parade of Boynton animals. The message is simple: keep going, even when the world feels ridiculous. A light, encouraging read for kids and grown-ups alike.

On Dasher, On Dancer, On Flopsy And Igor

by Sandra Boynton

1986

A holiday romp with Boynton’s trademark chaos, featuring a very unconventional cast of seasonal characters. The rhymes bounce along like a chant, making it ideal for reading out loud. A quirky Christmas story that doesn’t take itself seriously.

Christmas Time

by Sandra Boynton

1987

A humorous look at Christmas traditions, from decorating and wrapping to the general frenzy of the season. Boynton’s animals handle the holidays with their usual mix of enthusiasm and confusion. A small book that works well as a stocking stuffer.

Boynton the Classic Prints

by Sandra Boynton

1990

A portfolio-style collection of fifteen classic Boynton designs, printed as removable pages ready for framing or sharing. It’s part art book, part nostalgia trip. A fun way to bring her animal characters off the page and onto the wall.

Barnyard Dance!

by Sandra Boynton

1993

A barnyard full of animals invites readers to stomp, clap, and dance along. The rhymes feel like a call-and-response, making it perfect for group storytime. It’s part book, part mini dance party, and all Boynton.

Birthday Monsters!

by Sandra Boynton

1993

Another year, and guess who’s here? A crowd of friendly monsters shows up to celebrate, bringing silly rhymes and big birthday energy. A quick, upbeat book that’s easy to pull out at party time.

Oh My Oh My Oh Dinosaurs!

by Sandra Boynton

1993

An opposites book that’s overflowing with dinosaurs. Each spread pairs a simple contrast with Boynton’s bold dino personalities, keeping the learning light and the rhythm strong. A great pick for toddlers who want both concepts and creatures.

One, Two, Three!

by Sandra Boynton

1993

An exuberant counting romp that races through the numbers with Boynton-style rhythm and animal energy. The pattern is simple enough for toddlers to predict, but silly enough to keep everyone laughing to the end.

Horns to Toes

by Sandra Boynton

1995

A playful look at animal body parts, from horns and snouts to toes and tails. The simple phrases encourage pointing and naming, while the illustrations add humor on every page. A sturdy, shareable board book for the youngest readers.

Grunt

by Sandra Boynton

1996

A book-and-CD set that pairs Boynton’s pigs with surprisingly elegant music. The twist is that much of it is in Pig Latin, so it sounds fancy until you listen closely. Silly, musical, and great for families who like inside jokes.

Rhinoceros Tap

by Sandra Boynton

1996

A songbook-and-CD set packed with fifteen animal songs performed by Adam Bryant. The lyrics invite clapping, stomping, and singing along, with Boynton illustrations keeping the mood light. A road-trip friendly pick for kids who love music.

Snoozers

by Sandra Boynton

1997

Seven short, zippy bedtime story-poems, each with its own tab to help little hands choose a favorite. The tone is calm but not sleepy, with jokes tucked into the rhythm. A handy bedtime book for quick reads.

Boynton's Greatest Hits Volume 1

by Sandra Boynton

1998

A boxed set of four classic Boynton board books, perfect for baby showers and early libraries. Inside are Moo, Baa, La La La!, A to Z, Doggies, and Blue Hat, Green Hat. A simple way to start a collection.

Dinosaur's Binkit

by Sandra Boynton

1998

A dinosaur misplaces a beloved comfort object, and the search turns into a gentle little adventure. The story captures the very real urgency of a missing lovey, with Boynton humor keeping it light. Reassuring for kids who have their own binkit.

Bob

by Sandra Boynton

1999

A tiny, hilarious story built around one simple word: Bob. A group of animals keeps calling for Bob, and every page plays with expectation and timing. It’s minimal text, maximum payoff, and a favorite for kids who love to shout along.

Boynton's Greatest Hits The Big Yellow Box

by Sandra Boynton

1999

A boxed set that bundles four well-loved Boynton board books for easy gifting and daily rereading. It includes Barnyard Dance!, The Going to Bed Book, Pajama Time!, and Oh My Oh My Oh Dinosaurs!. Sturdy, portable, and built for sharing.

Dinos To Go

by Sandra Boynton

2000

Meet seven quirky dinosaurs, each introduced with a tabbed page and a quick burst of Boynton humor. The format makes it easy for toddlers to choose favorites and turn pages themselves. A playful dino roundup built for small hands.

Hey! Wake Up!

by Sandra Boynton

2000

A morning book filled with rhythm, zest, and a few very questionable breakfast ideas, including broccoli stew. The animals bounce from sleepiness to full speed fast. A funny, energetic way to start a day or shake off the grumps.

Hippos Go Berserk!

by Sandra Boynton

2000

A counting story that starts small and becomes a full hippo party. As the number of hippos rises and falls, the rhythm makes the math feel like music. A classic early Boynton book that’s easy to memorize and recite.

Pajama Time!

by Sandra Boynton

2000

Sing a song of bedtime with a cast of animals in every kind of pajama you can imagine. The rhythm moves like a chant, inviting claps and dancing even as the day winds down. A lively bedtime pick that still ends cozy.

Yay, You!

by Sandra Boynton

2001

A cheerful, encouraging gift book for graduations and big life moments. Boynton’s animals offer simple lines of support that feel sincere without getting mushy. Short, upbeat, and easy to give when you want to say “I’m proud of you.”

Consider Love

by Sandra Boynton

2002

A compact gift book about love that aims for warm and funny, not overly sentimental. Boynton’s illustrations and short lines make it easy to read in a minute or revisit often. A simple way to say “I like you a lot.”

Philadelphia Chickens

by Sandra Boynton

2002

A hardcover songbook with a full album on CD, built like an imaginary musical revue. The songs are performed by a celebrity cast, and the book lets you follow along with lyrics and illustrations. A big, playful introduction to “Boynton music.”

Fuzzy Fuzzy Fuzzy!

by Sandra Boynton

2003

A celebration of all things fuzzy, told with quick rhymes and a parade of touchably cute animals. The refrain is easy for toddlers to chant, and the pages move fast. Perfect for kids who love giggles and soft things.

Snuggle Puppy!

by Sandra Boynton

2003

A sweet, sing-song love story between a caregiver and a puppy who wants one thing: snuggles. The text reads like a lullaby, making it a favorite for bedtime or calm-down moments. Gentle, affectionate, and made for cuddling.

Moo Cow Book

by Sandra Boynton

2004

A simple animal-sounds board book that invites kids to call out “moo” and more. Boynton’s bold art keeps the pages clear for very young readers, while the rhythm encourages participation. Great for first words, first laughs, and loud storytimes.

Belly Button Book

by Sandra Boynton

2005

Hippos hit the beach, and suddenly everyone’s belly button is the star of the show. There’s booping, beebo-ing, and lots of giggles, especially from one tiny hippo who only knows two words. A goofy read-aloud favorite.

Dog Train

by Sandra Boynton

2005

A hardcover book paired with a rock-and-roll music CD, taking kids on a wild ride led by dogs. The songs are performed by a lineup of musicians, and the book includes illustrated lyrics. Loud, fun, and great for car listening.

My Puppy Book

by Sandra Boynton

2005

A sturdy little book packed with puppy faces and puppy energy. The simple text and bold illustrations make it easy for babies and toddlers to focus, point, and name. A friendly first book for animal-loving little readers.

My Piggy Book

by Sandra Boynton

2006

A playful introduction to piggies, full of Boynton humor and bold, baby-friendly art. The pages celebrate pig behavior, sounds, and personality in a way toddlers love. A sturdy pick for kids who oink at everything, happily.

Your Personal Penguin

by Sandra Boynton

2006

A sincere penguin makes a heartfelt case to be someone’s very best friend, even if the hippo isn’t sure what to make of it at first. The text is sweet and funny, and the story comes with an accompanying song.

Bath Time!

by Sandra Boynton

2007

A waterproof bath book designed for tub reading, complete with a squeaker at the end. The rhyme invites kids to bring their ducky and boats and get splashing. A practical, funny way to make bath time feel like storytime.

Blue Moo

by Sandra Boynton

2007

A hardcover songbook with a jukebox-style music CD that leans into classic 1950s and early 1960s sounds. The songs are performed by well-known voices, and the illustrated lyrics invite sing-alongs. A playful family music collection.

What's Wrong, Little Pookie?

by Sandra Boynton

2007

Pookie is upset, but the reason is hard to pin down. Mom guesses and guesses, and keeps getting it wrong, in a way that will feel familiar to any caregiver. A warm, funny look at toddler emotions.

Barnyard Bath [With Washcloth]

by Sandra Boynton

2008

A waterproof bath book that floats, plus a printed washcloth for scrubbing along. It’s a bath-time cousin of Barnyard Dance!, full of animal energy and simple rhythm. Made for splashing, squeezing, and reading in the tub.

Fifteen Animals!

by Sandra Boynton

2008

A little boy introduces fifteen animals, and almost all of them are named Bob. The joke builds with each page, until one animal breaks the pattern in a way kids love. A short, rhythmic story that’s easy to memorize.

Let's Dance, Little Pookie

by Sandra Boynton

2008

Pookie wants to dance, and the whole room becomes a tiny party. The bouncy back-and-forth with Mom turns into a follow-along rhythm that begs for wiggling. A short read that pairs well with actual dancing.

Night-Night, Little Pookie

by Sandra Boynton

2009

Pookie gets ready for bed, with a little extra Pookie flair. The routine is familiar, but the details are playful, making it easy to read again and again. A cozy pick for winding down without losing the humor.

One Shoe Blues

by Sandra Boynton

2009

A photo-illustrated companion to a music video featuring blues legend BB King, with sock puppets and a very catchy song. The story follows the drama of a missing shoe and the search that follows. A quirky blend of book and film.

Amazing Cows

by Sandra Boynton

2010

A big, colorful miscellany devoted entirely to cows, mixing stories, jokes, poems, and other cow-related surprises. It’s not a simple board book, it’s a cow-filled collection meant for browsing. Great for kids and adults who love bovine humor.

Happy Birthday, Little Pookie

by Sandra Boynton

2010

It’s Pookie’s birthday, and the celebration starts way before dawn. Pookie is ready for cake and excitement, while the parents are still trying to wake up. A funny, affectionate birthday story for the littlest party people.

Perfect Piggies!

by Sandra Boynton

2010

Four cheerful pigs sing the praises of being pigs, in a story based on a song from the Philadelphia Chickens project. The text bounces like doo-wop, and the pages celebrate piggitude with goofy pride. A strong pick for pig fans.

Big Box of Little Pookie

by Sandra Boynton

2011

A sturdy boxed set that gathers six Little Pookie board books in one slipcase. It includes Little Pookie, What’s Wrong, Night-Night, Happy Birthday, Let’s Dance, and Spooky Pookie, ready for repeat reading at home or on the go.

Happy Hippo, Angry Duck

by Sandra Boynton

2011

A cast of animals cycles through big feelings, from happy and sad to angry, surprised, and more. Expressive faces and short lines help kids name emotions and see that moods can change. Includes one steadfastly crabby duck.

Little Pookie

by Sandra Boynton

2011

Meet Pookie, a tiny pig with big opinions and a mind of their own. In a handful of brisk scenes, a patient parent guides Pookie through everyday moments, balancing independence with comfort. A warm introduction to the series.

Are You a Cow?

by Sandra Boynton

2012

A friendly guessing game for little readers: Are you a cow, a pig, a sheep, a dog? Each page offers a simple question and a bold animal answer, building early vocabulary through repetition and rhyme.

Christmas Parade

by Sandra Boynton

2012

A Christmas story written with the irresistible rhythm of a marching band. The noisy parade builds from page to page, turning holiday anticipation into a chant you can practically tap your feet to. A festive read for families who like big energy.

Tickle Time!

by Sandra Boynton

2012

When you’re feeling blue and you don’t know what to do, this book has one simple solution: tickle time. The rhymes invite playful interaction, and the animals keep it silly. A quick, upbeat pick for turning a mood around.

Frog Trouble

by Sandra Boynton

2013

A hardcover book paired with an audio CD that leans into country music, Boynton-style. The songs are performed by a lineup of well-known artists, and the book follows along with lyrics and illustrations. Funny, twangy, and unexpectedly catchy.

The Bunny Rabbit Show!

by Sandra Boynton

2014

You’ve got front-row seats to a bunny revue, complete with taps, hops, and plenty of cuteness. The rhymes read like stage directions, inviting kids to join the show. A lively board book for readers who love performance and play.

Spooky Pookie

by Sandra Boynton

2015

Pookie wants the perfect Halloween costume, but every option feels not quite right. With Mom’s help, Pookie tries on a parade of spooky possibilities before landing on the best choice. A gentle Halloween read with plenty of laughs.

A Is for Angry

by Sandra Boynton

2016

An alphabet book that pairs each letter with a strong feeling or attitude. It’s quick, funny, and a little cathartic, giving kids words for emotions while keeping the tone light. A fresh twist on ABC books for big-mood days.

Dinosaur Dance!

by Sandra Boynton

2016

Join a lively crew of dinosaurs as they stomp, wiggle, clap, and even cha-cha-cha. The chant-like text invites kids to move along with the pages. A quick, energetic board book for storytime or playtime.

Eek! Halloween!

by Sandra Boynton

2016

The chickens are nervous, and the reader gets to guess why. Page by page, the tension builds until the answer arrives: it’s Halloween. A simple, funny story that turns jitters into giggles, with a gentle “relax” at the end.

Hog Wild!

by Sandra Boynton

2017

A pig-themed romp that embraces joyful chaos. The rhyme is bouncy, the pages are packed with Boynton pigs, and the energy builds fast. A funny read-aloud for kids who like their stories loud, busy, and a little bit wild.

Boynton's Greatest Hits The Big Green Box

by Sandra Boynton

2018

A boxed set of four Boynton board books chosen for kids who like feelings, animals, and action. Inside are Happy Hippo, Angry Duck!, But Not the Armadillo, Dinosaur Dance!, and Are You a Cow?. A handy starter library in one box.

But Not the Armadillo

by Sandra Boynton

2018

A companion-style romp about all the animals doing their thing, with one armadillo left out of the action. The refrain keeps returning, until the armadillo gets a moment that changes everything. A rhythmic story about belonging and joining in.

Here, George!

by Sandra Boynton

2018

Someone keeps calling for George, and getting his attention is easier said than done. The simple text and comedic timing turn a basic call-and-response into a small adventure. A quick read that’s perfect for toddlers who love repetition.

I Love You, Little Pookie

by Sandra Boynton

2018

A simple, steady love message from Mom to Pookie, repeated in ways little kids understand. It moves through everyday moments and moods, reminding children they’re loved no matter what. Sweet, short, and perfect for cuddles.

Merry Christmas, Little Pookie

by Sandra Boynton

2018

Christmas is coming, and Mom and Pookie pack the day with cookies, decorating, songs, and anticipation. The story captures both the bustle and the cozy calm that arrives when it’s finally time for sleep. A warm holiday board book.

Dinosnores

by Sandra Boynton

2019

A sleepy dinosaur bedtime book where each dino has a distinctive snore. The rhythm stays soothing, but the sounds keep it funny, making it great for bedtime and giggles. A calm read-aloud for kids who love dinosaurs.

Silly Lullaby

by Sandra Boynton

2019

A bedtime lullaby that’s gentle, a little goofy, and easy to read in a whisper. The rhyme moves smoothly from page to page, helping kids settle down without losing the fun. A sweet pick for the end of a busy day.

Dog Train Midnight Express Rock And Roll

by Sandra Boynton

2020

A music-focused Boynton book that leans into the Dog Train world, with lyrics and rhythmic fun designed for reading and singing. It’s built for loud participation, like a concert in board-book form. Great for kids who love noise and dogs.

How Big Is Zagnodd?

by Sandra Boynton

2020

An imaginative size-and-scale adventure featuring Zagnodd, a creature that is extremely, unbelievably big. The story plays with comparisons in a way toddlers can grasp, keeping the tone silly and surprising. A fun pick for kids obsessed with “how big?”

Your Nose!

by Sandra Boynton

2020

A caregiver celebrates a child’s nose, and then keeps going, building into a warm, funny love song. It’s affectionate without being syrupy, and the rhythm makes it easy to read like a chant. A cozy pick for snuggle time.

Boo! Baa, La La La!

by Sandra Boynton

2021

A twisty, playful animal-noises book that leans into the joy of saying the wrong sound on purpose. The chant-y rhythm encourages kids to shout along and correct the page. A funny follow-up for families who know Moo, Baa by heart.

Good Night, Good Night: The original longer version of The Going to Bed Book

by Sandra Boynton

2021

A longer, picture-book version of The Going to Bed Book, expanding the familiar routine with extra scenes and space to linger. It keeps the same warm, silly tone while giving the bedtime world more room to breathe.

Jungle Night

by Sandra Boynton

2021

A calm nighttime walk through the jungle, where each animal has its own unmistakable snore. The sounds start soothing and get funny fast, like a bedtime lullaby with punchlines. Music by Yo-Yo Ma can accompany the story.

Recommended by:

Ann Patchett

Woodland Dance!

by Sandra Boynton

2021

A forest dance party where woodland animals stomp, swirl, and wiggle through the night. The rhyme invites movement, and the pages feel like a follow-along routine. A high-energy board book for kids who can’t sit still at storytime.

Moo, Baa, Fa La La La La!

by Sandra Boynton

2022

A holiday spin on the classic animal-sounds book, mixing familiar noises with Christmas cheer. The rhythm is made for reading out loud, and the joke builds as the animals get festive. A seasonal favorite for families who love Boynton.

Pookie's Thanksgiving

by Sandra Boynton

2022

Pookie helps Mom get ready for Thanksgiving, from food to family arriving at the door. Everyone shares what they’re thankful for, and Pookie’s answer is both funny and true to character. It ends, as it should, with pie.

Happy Easter, Little Pookie

by Sandra Boynton

2023

Pookie and Mom dive into Easter fun, from bunny hopping and egg decorating to a play date with Pookie’s friend Bean. The day is busy, messy, and sweet, ending with dreams of the Easter Bunny and chocolate treats.

Hippos Remain Calm

by Sandra Boynton

2023

Two hippos are trying very hard to remain calm, even as small frustrations pile up. The story turns everyday stress into humor, with a steady refrain that kids can repeat. A funny, low-key way to talk about keeping your cool.

Ooo, Baby Baby!

by Sandra Boynton

2023

A gentle, joyful welcome for a new baby, full of simple affirmations and Boynton humor. The rhythm is made for reading aloud to infants, and the illustrations keep it playful. A sweet little book for baby showers and new families.

Peekaboo Rex!

by Sandra Boynton

2023

Rex the dinosaur plays peekaboo, popping in and out in ways that are easy for babies to track. The simple text and big, bold art make it great for lap reading. A playful board book for the peekaboo stage.

Woo Hoo! You're Doing Great!

by Sandra Boynton

2023

A bright, encouraging board book that cheers kids through everyday efforts, from trying new things to making it through a tough moment. The message stays upbeat without getting preachy. A small boost of confidence in book form.

Dinosaurs in Trucks Because Hey, Why Not?

by Sandra Boynton

2024

Exactly what the title promises: dinosaurs driving trucks, doing truck things, and having an excellent time. The text leans playful and a little absurd, encouraging kids to imagine without rules. A great read for dinosaur-and-truck superfans.

Hey! Look at You!

by Sandra Boynton

2024

A celebration of a baby’s day, from wake-up to play to snuggles. The tone is loving and a little silly, the way real baby talk sounds. A simple board book for pointing, smiling, and telling a little one they’re terrific.

Little Love Songs

by Sandra Boynton

2024

A small collection of love-themed songs for sharing with a child, built around simple lyrics and Boynton’s warm humor. It works as a read-aloud, a sing-along, or both. A cozy gift for cuddly moments and everyday affection.

Little Night Songs

by Sandra Boynton

2024

A bedtime collection of short, musical lullabies meant for singing or reading softly. The pages move through nighttime comfort, with Boynton’s animals keeping it light. A calm book for winding down, especially for families who like songs at night.

A Dance with Santa Claus

by Sandra Boynton

2025

A holiday dance party with Santa as the star. The rhymes read like a chant, inviting clapping and movement, and the scenes keep Christmas playful rather than precious. A festive read for kids who want to wiggle all season.

Smooches!

by Sandra Boynton

2025

A parade of animals gives and receives smooches, each one a little different, from silly to sweet. The repetition makes it easy for toddlers to join in, and the ending is cozy. A simple book for families who like kissy fun.

When Pigs Fly!

by Sandra Boynton

2025

A cheerful parent-and-child story that follows a little pig through everyday moments, with a message of support and belief. The rhythm is comforting, and the jokes stay gentle. A sweet pick for kids who like love stories with a wink.

New

I've Got a Dog!

by Sandra Boynton

2026

A bouncy, sing-song story about a kid with a dog who does all the things dogs do. It’s based on a Boynton song, so the rhythm is ready-made for chanting. A short, funny read for dog lovers and lap readers.

New

Iguana Miss You!

by Sandra Boynton

2026

A punny, affectionate story about missing someone, told with Boynton’s usual animal humor. The text is simple enough for little kids, while the wordplay lands for grown-ups too. A sweet pick for separations, travel, or saying “come back soon.”

Where should I start?

If you want the bedtime classic: The Going to Bed BookGood Night, Good Night: The original longer version of The Going to Bed BookJungle Night
If you want animal sounds and first words: Moo, Baa, La La La!Boo! Baa, La La La!Are You a Cow?
If you want dance-along read-alouds: Barnyard Dance!Pajama Time!Dinosaur Dance!Woodland Dance!
If you want sweet parent-and-kid love songs: Snuggle Puppy!Your Nose!Ooo, Baby Baby!When Pigs Fly!
If you want Pookie time: Little PookieNight-Night, Little PookieWhat's Wrong, Little Pookie?Let's Dance, Little Pookie

Author bio

Sandra Boynton was born on April 3, 1953, in Orange, New Jersey, and she grew up in Philadelphia. She’s best known for board books that treat little kids like real people, with short, musical lines and animals who act a lot like us.

Her childhood had a strong arts streak. She went to Germantown Friends School, where creativity and independence were part of everyday life. That mix, serious about ideas but playful in tone, shows up later in the way her books sound when you read them out loud.

She entered Yale University in 1970, during the school’s early years of coeducation, and majored in English. After college she also studied drama, and for a while she imagined a life in the theater as a director. But she kept drawing and writing on the side, because that part was hard to quit. Instead of waitressing one summer, she designed a small run of Christmas cards, got them printed, and then went store to store trying to sell them. It worked. Those early card designs led to her long relationship with Recycled Paper Greetings, and her cartoon animals started showing up on refrigerators and office doors all over the place.

She likes a clean line and a good pun.

Over the years she’s created more than four thousand greeting cards, including the famous “Hippo Birdie Two Ewes” birthday card. At the same time, her children’s books began to take off. Her first, Hippos Go Berserk!, came out in 1977, and it already had the pattern-and-payoff rhythm that became her trademark.

Boynton went on to write and illustrate dozens of books for young children, many of them sturdy board books made for drool, chewing, and serious rereading. Her books have sold more than 75 million copies, which is wild when you consider how short most of them are. Bedtime, counting, animal noises, big feelings, they’re all fair game.

The books look simple, but the timing is doing a lot of work.

Families often start with The Going to Bed Book and Moo, Baa, La La La!, then branch out to Barnyard Dance!, Blue Hat, Green Hat, Snuggle Puppy!, or Your Personal Penguin. What kids respond to is the repetition and the sound of the words. What adults notice is that the jokes land quickly, and the books don’t drag out a moment just to feel “educational.”

Boynton’s also a songwriter and producer. Working with her longtime music partner Michael Ford, she’s released songbook-and-album projects like Philadelphia Chickens, Dog Train, Blue Moo, and Frog Trouble, recorded by a wide range of musicians. The music side of her work has earned major sales milestones and a Grammy nomination, without ever losing the goofy, kid-friendly spirit.

She has written for grown-ups too, with gift and humor books like Chocolate: The Consuming Passion and Consider Love. Boynton was married to writer and Olympic canoeist Jamie McEwan, and together they raised four children. She has lived for many years in rural New England, where she still draws, writes, and makes music.

Edited by

Richard Reis

Software engineer whose passion for tracking book recommendations from podcasts inspired the creation of MRB.

Anurag Ramdasan

Lead investor at 3one4 Capital whose startup expertise and love for books helped shaped MRB and its growth.

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All 101 Sandra Boynton Books in Order (Complete List 2026)