Joyce Wan’s signature style of colorful illustrations and happy, loveable characters has made a huge impact on children’s literature. With cheerful, memorable characters and uplifting messages that children and adults alike love, it isn’t hard to see why they’re such popular titles, and why they’re an essential part of a home library! 

In Wan’s newest book, We Are Better Together, little readers will explore themes of togetherness, and working towards a common goal, and how we are all better when we work together! 

When it came to choosing her favorite books about togetherness, Wan knew exactly the themes she wanted to focus on. “If this past year has shown us anything, it’s the extraordinary power of community and how it creates hope in the darkest and most uncertain of times,” says Wan. “On the toughest days, we have the power to create connections and draw strength from one another. Better Together reminds us all that we need each other to thrive and celebrates the magic that happens when we come together.”

And in keeping with the themes of togetherness, it’s important to remember the value that joy and laughter can bring to communities, especially during trying times. Wan’s choices in children’s books about togetherness reflect her own love of sweet characters and encouraging messages wrapped up in humor. 

“I chose these books because they are sure to keep kids laughing through funny dialogue, playful characters, and silly illustrations all while learning about themes of togetherness, helping each other, teamwork, and collaboration,” says Wan.

Here are Joyce Wan’s top books about togetherness and inclusion!

Grumpycorn

In this charming book about a grumpy unicorn wanting to write the perfect story, themes of friendship and teamwork are in the forefront!

Bumble & Bee: Don't Worry, Bee Happy

When their friend Froggy becomes grumpy, Bumble and Bee team up to figure out how to cheer him up in this wonderful book about friendship and acceptance.

Frog and Dog #1: Frog Meets Dog

In this loveable story about a pup who just wants to hop with his frog friends, readers will explore themes of helping each other and getting along! 

We Don’t Eat Our Classmates

Penelope T. Rex is a sweet little dinosaur with a big problem—she can’t help but find her human classmates delicious! This story teaches children lessons in empathy and first-day-of-school jitters, all while serving up some laughs!

The Three Little Superpigs 

In this retelling of the beloved classic story, readers will join these three superheroes as they work together to defeat the Big Bad Wolf and save the world!

Click, Clack Moo: Cows That Type 

This hilarious story about Farmer Brown’s cows finding a typewriter and writing him letters with demands teaches children themes of fairness and working together during some hilarious barnyard hijinks.

The Squirrels Who Squabbled 

This zany story of two squirrel friends after the last pinecone of the season offers readers lessons in sharing and working together for a common goal. 

Perfect 

Two unlikely friends are trying to do what they do best — and getting in each other’s way in the process! This book explores themes of friendship and collaboration that’s sure to delight readers of all ages.

Super Slug of Doom: A Super Happy Magic Forest Story

Five reluctant friends must work together to save their forest from the Super Slug of Doom in this follow up to Super Happy Magic Forest!