5 Great "Snow Day" Books for Kids

There is no better thing to do on a "snow day" than read a great book that takes you out into the blizzard while staying toasty inside.

Here's a list of favorites that adults will also love reading with the kids. All are available at your local library, and each would make a timeless addition to a permanent home collection.

Snow Day by Ezra Jack Keats - A short children's picture book with few words, but lovely illustrations of a young boy in the city. Ages 2 and up.

Katy and the Big Snow by Virginia Lee Burton - Many parents know Burton's more famous picture book, Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, but may not be familiar with this charming story that focuses on Katy, the snow plow, and her very important job clearing roads after a snowstorm. Ages 3 and up.

The Mitten by Jan Brett - Actually, any of Brett's Scandinavian-inspired, winter-themed picture books are wonderful stories on a snowy day, and you can spend even more time hunting for pictures in the beautifully illustrated page borders. Ages 3 and up.

Snowbound with Betsy by Carolyn Haywood - This is one of several chapter books Haywood wrote featuring sisters Betsy and Star. Great for girls reading at a 3rd grade level or higher.

The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder - This is probably the quintessential blizzard book, and it will leave you thankful for warm beds and full cupboards! To get the best effect, read a chapter or two before bedtime during those cold, snowy nights when the wind is rattling the windows. All ages.

And take some time to stir up some hot chocolate, build up a cozy fire and enjoy the chill. Lawn mowing season will come soon enough!