Meta-Fiction: Picture Books that Break the Fourth Wall

My Pencil and Me by Sara Varon
This story walks through the writing and publishing process, with an adorable fourth-wall-breaking reveal at the end.

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Press Here by Herve Tullet
Readers can press "buttons," tilt, and shake the book as the story progresses.

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I Am Bat by Morag Hood
If you wouldn't let the Pigeon drive the bus, you'd be similarly protective of Bat's cherries, which mysteriously disappear during this story.

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Also an Octopus by Maggie Tokuda-Hall
Coming up with story event ideas can be challenging, so why wouldn't readers be called upon to contribute to the cause?

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High Five by Adam Rubin
Just how prepared are you for the upcoming High Five contest? Have no fear - some interactive stylistic coaching will do the trick.

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There's a Monster at the End of This Book by Jon Stone
One of the earliest examples of meta-fiction in picture books, this classic is still entertaining for kids and the adults who read with them. Please do not turn the page!

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The Scariest Book in the Whole Entire World by Joey Acker
Never mind - this book is probably way too scary. If you decide to try it, just remember - the rock tried to warn you.

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Escargot by Dashka Slater
The titular protagonist tries to convince readers to see the charm in snails, and to claim him as "your favorite animal." It's adorable.

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Chapter Two is Missing by Josh Lieb
It's a mystery, it's an exploration of text conventions, and it's hilarious. Now, hurry and start helping, because the narrator is in crisis.

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Find Fergus by Mike Boldt
Spoiler: Fergus is really hopeless at Hide and Seek. However, this makes for high entertainment with young readers, who can easily spot this would-be sneaky bear from page to page.

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Frankencrayon by Michael Hall
Disaster! Just as the story was ready to unfold, we discover that someone has scribbled across the page. Positively shocking, of course (and, perhaps, an opportune time to reiterate book care with students). Readers get a glimpse "back stage" to see the preparation, the disaster, and the solution.

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This Book Will Get You to Sleep by Jory John
Are you asleep yet? How about now? No dulcet tones or calming lullabies here - more like raucous sheep playing electric guitars as fireworks explode behind them. Unsurprisingly, the text is not calming - but it is a good time.

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The Book with No Pictures by B. J. Novak
This picture book without pictures is so entertaining that readers will be giggling uncontrollably - and, quite possibly - at you. But probably also with you.