David McPhail Books and Activities

Discover the most popular children’s books by author David M. McPhail, along with fun facts, activities and timeless stories perfect for kids ages 4–8.

Virtual Book Club for Kids is a fun way for us to learn about new books and authors with our children! Each week we share book-related crafts and activities based on the book we choose to spotlight. The author we’ve selected to highlight today David M McPhail.

You can explore additional Author Study for Kids here.

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Author David McPhail 

David McPhail is a beloved American author and illustrator who has created over 100 children’s books filled with warmth, imagination, and heart. Since publishing his first book in 1972, he has become known for his gentle storytelling and expressive, detailed illustrations. McPhail’s stories often feature animals or young children facing everyday challenges and learning big life lessons—like kindness, courage, friendship, and creativity.

Some of his most popular books include Mole Music, a tale about how one mole’s violin playing brings peace to the world, Edward and the Pirates, which celebrates the magic of reading, and the hilarious Pigs Aplenty, Pigs Galore!, full of piggy chaos and fun rhymes. Other favorites like The Bear’s Toothache, The Teddy Bear, and Emma continue to touch the hearts of readers young and old.

Whether he’s making kids laugh or helping them feel understood, David McPhail’s books have become timeless treasures in homes, schools, and libraries around the world.

Fun Facts About Author David McPhail

• He started drawing when he was just a little kid! – David loved to doodle and draw animals when he was growing up—and he never stopped!
• He’s written and illustrated over 100 books! – That’s a LOT of stories! Some are silly, some are sweet, and many feature animals like bears, pigs, and ducks.
• He once made a book about a mole who plays music underground! – In Mole Music, the mole plays the violin so beautifully, it changes the world—without him even knowing it!
• He sometimes works in his pajamas! – Since he works from home, David McPhail can draw and write while being comfy in his PJs.
• He loves to mix imagination with real-life feelings. – His books often make kids laugh, but they also help kids understand things like kindness, bravery, and love.

Best Known Books by Author David McPhail

David McPhail is a prolific and beloved children’s book author and illustrator whose works have charmed readers for decades. Here are several of his books that have stood out as enduring favorites among families, educators, and librarians. These titles have been widely praised for their emotional depth, gentle humor, and expressive illustrations.

Mole Music – This touching story about a mole who learns to play the violin and unknowingly brings harmony to the world is often cited as one of McPhail’s most moving and widely shared works.

Wheezer Changes the World – A small dog named Wheezer dreams big—and proves that even the tiniest among us can make a big difference in the world with kindness, courage, and heart.

Edward and the Pirates – A celebration of imagination and reading, this book follows Edward as his love of books leads him on a swashbuckling adventure.

Pigs Aplenty, Pigs Galore! – A humorous and rhythmic tale about a house overrun by mischievous pigs, this book is a favorite for read-aloud sessions.

Pigs Ahoy! – A boat trip goes hilariously wrong when a crew of mischievous pigs takes over the ship! Full of rhyme and giggles.

The Searcher and the Old Tree – A gentle, poetic story about a brave dog who protects a lonely tree during a storm, filled with courage and quiet beauty.

The Bear’s Toothache – One of McPhail’s earlier and most recognized works, this gentle story about a boy helping a bear with a toothache has remained popular since its publication.

Fix-It – Part of the acclaimed “Family Life” series, this book explores a young boy’s desire to help his father with repairs, capturing the warmth of family relationships.

The Teddy Bear – A poignant story about a lost teddy bear and the boy who finds it, this book touches on themes of loss, kindness, and reunion.

Lost! – A story about a bear who gets lost and finds help from a kind family. It gently reinforces themes of kindness and helping others.

Drawing Lessons from a Bear – A thoughtful book about the creative process and the joy of drawing, with a bear as the introspective artist.

A Bug, a Bear, and a Boy – Meet three unlikely friends—a tiny bug, a big bear, and a curious boy—as they discover the joy of playing together.

A Bug, a Bear, and a Boy Go to School – Join the trio as they head to school for a day full of learning, friendship, and a few silly surprises.

A Bug, a Bear, and a Boy Fly a Kite – On a windy day, the friends work together to fly a kite—and learn about teamwork, patience, and fun!

Brothers – This heartfelt book explores the bond between siblings, highlighting both the challenges and joys of brotherhood.

Sisters – A touching story about two sisters who share love, laughter, and a few arguments—just like real siblings!

My Little Brother – A big sibling tells what life is like with a little brother—sometimes tricky, often silly, and always full of love.

Beatrix Potter and Her Paint Box – A beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the true story of how Beatrix Potter grew up to become a famous author and artist—thanks to her paint box and imagination!

The Family Tree – A powerful story about a boy who protects an old tree in his yard, showing how one small act of kindness can grow into something big.

Emma’s Pet – This story follows Emma as she searches for the perfect pet, offering a gentle tale about companionship and patience.

Santa’s Book of Names – A magical Christmas story about a boy who can’t read—until he helps Santa deliver gifts and discovers his own power. A favorite holiday read.

I Love You Because You’re You – A beloved bedtime book celebrating unconditional love between a parent and child, with tender, expressive illustrations.

Illustrations by David McPhail

David M. McPhail is widely celebrated not only for the children’s books he has written and illustrated but also for his collaborations as an illustrator with other authors. His distinctive, warm, and expressive artwork has brought to life numerous stories penned by fellow writers.

Have you read any books by David McPhail? If so, which one is your favorite?

Activities Inspired by David McPhail Books

• Wheezer Changes the World Activity
• Santa’s Book of Names Ornament
• Mole Music Eye Bombing Activity
• Egg Carton Pigs A Plenty
• Andrew’s Bath Animals Collage
• The Puddle Story Retelling
• First Flight Cardboard Box Fun
• Big Brown Bear Goes to Town Letter Delivery Game
• Messy Car Wash for Pig Pig Gets a Job
• Waddles Finger Puppets Craft

David McPhail Virtual Book Club for Kids

David M. McPhail’s books have been delighting children and families for generations with their gentle humor, heartfelt messages, and timeless illustrations. Whether you’re looking for a bedtime favorite, a story about friendship, or a laugh-out-loud adventure with pigs, his books offer something special for every young reader.

We hope this list inspires you to explore (or revisit!) the wonderful world of David McPhail with the children in your life. Happy reading!

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