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12+ Picture Books that are Fabulous for Graduations, Gifts and Keepsakes

Have you been watching the keepsake book trend as it grows? You know, the one where you have people sign books and gift them for big occasions. I am ALL over it. I love it! Cards are great, but keepsake books, in my opinion are even better. They can hold a longer message, include fantastic illustrations, can be read over and over again, can be passed down through generations, and can have messages from multiple loved ones. What’s not to love about that?

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Some ways I have seen them done are at baby showers where all the guests write a message of love and excitement in the book for the baby, graduation gifts where past teachers have signed the book with messages of encouragement, birthday gifts were loved ones celebrate the individual through written messages and more. They are even great in lieu of cards for specific accomplishments such as performances, fruition of hard work and benchmarks in life.

Below is a list of books that I have compiled that are perfect keepsake books. None of them have “stories” and are more statements of celebration for accomplishments or statements about excitement for potential that everyone holds. Each one is great for celebrating graduations, gifts and making keepsakes in general.

“The Wonderful Things You Will Be” by Emily Winfield Martin- This book is a magical celebration of the joys that life holds for every young child. It has the most wonderful, whimsical vibe.

“Maybe” by Kobi Yamada and Gabriella Barouch- This book is positively stunning and celebrates the potential and possibility in children. The lyrical text and illustrations couldn’t be any more lovely. 

“Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!” by Dr. Suess- This book is a celebration of the uniqueness of our perspective and the power of our brain and imagination. It makes you think about all the wonderful things children will do and the many unique ways they can contribute to the world.

“As We Grow” by Libby Walden and Richard Jones- This is a beautiful tribute to life and starts with infancy and follows the growing-up process clear until old age. It’s sensitive and thought provoking and makes me a little teary-eyed.

“I Wish You More” by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld – This book is perfect for expressing our hopes that our children’s lives are filled mostly with the best that the world and relationships have to offer. Such a perfect reflecion of our hopes for them.

“Child of Galaxies” by Blake Nuto and Charlotte Ager- This book is awe-inspiring as it gives a look at the bigger picture of what we are a part of and the wonder that we are made of. It’s a beautiful one for a keepsake book.

“Oh, The Places You’ll Go” by Dr Seuss- A playful and fun book that focuses on the excitement and wonder of all that awaits us as we move forward in life. It’s filled with wonderful nonsense and we love it.

“You’re Here for a Reason” by Nancy Tillman- This one has a more serious and sentimental tone and it shares the belief that everyone has a purpose to fulfill and can accomplish great things. The illustrations are particularly lovely.

“I Knew You Could” by Craig Dorfman and Cristina Ong- This book is a celebration of things accomplished and confidence had. I grew up with The Little Engine that Could so it’s especially sentimental to me.

“What Do You Do With An Idea” by Kobi Yamada and Mae Besom- This is a phenomenal book about all the potential that is held in ideas and the reward that comes from the risk. It is perfect of adults and children alike and is very motivational.

“Remarkably You” by Pat Zietlow Miller and Patrice Barton- A celebration of the uniqueness of each child and a call to action to use their unique talents to make the world a better place. I love this one.

“Sky is the Limit” by Lisa Swerling and Ralph Lazar- An upbeat and inspirational little book that celebrates accomplishments made as well as the limitless possibilities that await.

“Tomorrow I’ll be Brave” by Jessica Hische- Each page in this book has a beautifully written statement of affirmation with a characteristic that we all yearn to have as kind and brave individuals. It is empowering and beautifully done.

“Eat the Cake” by M.H. Clark and Jana Glatt- This book is a party! It is a celebratory book that is perfect for birthdays, but can be used for any other occasions as well because it isn’t “birthday specific”. Besides, who doesn’t love compliments served with a slice of cake?!

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This book list has books that are great keepsake books that are excellent to gift for birthdays, graduation, in lieu of cards and more!
This book list has books that are great keepsake books that are excellent to gift for birthdays, graduation, in lieu of cards and more!

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