For over a decade, Mo Willems has been delighting children and adults alike with his beloved Elephant and Piggie books. These books, starring the best friends Gerald and Piggie, have captivated readers with their hilarious and endearing adventures. Whether it’s Piggie’s enthusiasm for trying new things or Gerald’s cautionary approach to life, the dynamic between these characters never fails to bring a smile. With so many wonderful books in the series, it can be hard to know where to start. This comprehensive guide to the best Elephant and Piggie books by Mo Willems will help you find the perfect one for your child (or for yourself!). From stories about friendship and adventure to tales of fun and learning, there’s something for everyone in this beloved series.
What are Elephant and Piggie books?
Since their beginning in 2007, the Elephant and Piggie books have been a staple in children’s literature. The series follows the duo as they embark on different adventures and share their unique perspectives on life. While Piggie is always up for trying new things and seeing what’s around the corner, Gerald is a little more cautious. Regardless of their differences, these best friends are always there for each other. The characters’ unique personalities and interactions are what make these books so special. Mo Willems’s humor and real-life situations are relatable and sure to make any reader laugh. The books are also great for helping kids learn important lessons, such as problem-solving and communication. Beyond the two main characters, the stories are filled with an array of intriguing animals. From the fantastical unicorn in “We Are in a Book!” to the pet pig in “Can I Play Too?”, there’s something for everyone.
Why are Elephant and Piggie books so popular?

The Elephant and Piggie books are extremely popular due to their relatable characters and hilarious storylines. The series is great for kids and adults of all ages because it appeals to both ends of the spectrum. Although the stories are geared towards younger readers, the mature humor is sure to make the adults reading them giggle. The characters’ individual quirks are what really make these books stand out. Piggie is a hyperactive and optimistic pig who loves trying new things. Gerald is a cautious and pessimistic elephant who prefers to stay inside and play computer games. Through their interactions, readers get to explore important themes, such as friendship and problem-solving. Not to mention the hilarious and absurd situations they end up in.
The Best Elephant and Piggie Books
– “We Are in a Book!” This book is the perfect introduction to the series for kids who have never read it before. It captures the essence of what makes the books so special: a friendship full of fun, adventure, and learning. Readers immediately fall in love with Gerald and Piggie as they navigate their way through the book, trying to figure out how to escape. It’s an exciting and humorous adventure that is sure to have kids begging for more. – “I Will Take a Nap!” Anyone familiar with childhood can relate to Piggie’s love of naps. In this book, Piggie tries to take a nap and Gerald’s attempt to convince her to do something else is sure to make readers laugh. They go on a wild adventure and Gerald has to use all of his problem-solving skills to survive. This story is the perfect one for kids who may need a little extra help getting to sleep at night. – “I Love My New Toy!” Kids of all ages will immediately be drawn to this book. It’s the perfect combination of silly and sweet, and it’s a great book for reading aloud. The story follows Gerald and his new toy, which he loves but doesn’t know how to play with. This book is a great example of how kids learn valuable lessons from their play and imaginations. It’s also great for teaching kids about sharing and how to act appropriately with new toys. – “Can I Play Too?” This book is the perfect example of how the Elephant and Piggie books can be used to discuss important themes like friendship, sharing, and problem-solving. It follows Gerald, who has a friend over to play. His friend has a pet pig, who is not allowed to play with the other toys. It’s a sweet story that shows how important it is to be inclusive, even when it may be difficult. It’s sure to be a favorite with kids of all ages. – “There Is a Bird On Your Head!” This story is a silly and light-hearted romp through the park with Gerald and Piggie. Luckily for Gerald, Piggie has a way of calming even the craziest of animals. This book is a perfect one for kids who love silly stories, as well as for reading aloud to younger children. It’s the perfect mix of silly and sweet that is sure to put a smile on any reader’s face.
Conclusion
The Elephant and Piggie books are a must-read for any child or adult looking for a silly and entertaining story. They’re great for kids of all ages, with each book following a specific theme and lesson. The friendship between Gerald and Piggie is sure to resonate with readers, no matter what their age. These books are sure to be loved for years to come. Pick up a few today and enjoy the wonderful world of Elephant and Piggie!