March 30^th is National Pencil Day marking the day that Hymen Lipman received the patent for attaching an eraser to the end of a pencil in 1858.

While other writing instruments seem to dominate the picture book scene – crayons, chalk, even markers – the ubiquitous pencil is finally getting its moment. 

Here is a collection of sharp, pencil-themed picture books to share with young readers on Pencil Day.

Ever wonder why there’s an eraser on every pencil? This picture book tells the story of how Pencil and Eraser became friends. When Pencil draws on the pages of the book, Eraser erases part of Pencil’s work, and the book becomes a canvas for their different takes on creativity–until they discover their artwork is better when they work together. 

Linus the Little Yellow Pencil
Written and illustrated by Scott Magoon

Linus and his eraser, Ernie, don’t always see eye to eye. But with the family art show drawing near, these two will have to sharpen their collaboration to make something neither one could do on their own!

Susan and her sister, Rebecca, love watching their mother write letters to people in other camps. Their mother has one precious pencil, and she keeps it safe in her box for special things.

Pencil’s Perfect Picture
Written by Jodi McKay
Illustrated by Juliana Motzko

Pencil is trying to draw the perfect picture for his dad. So, he asks his friends Brush, Pastel, Marker, Crayon, and Chalk what makes their art perfect. But they each have a different answer. How will Pencil be able to create his own perfect picture?

Arabella and the Magic Pencil
Written by Stephanie Ward
Illustrated by Shaney Hyde

Arabella is a beloved only child who has a picture perfect life until her brother, Avery, arrives. While she loves him, it’s sometimes hard to like him. She spends her days creating marvellous things with her magic pencil and ignoring him. But when Avery spoils a proper tea party, Arabella erases him from her life. Oops! How can she get him back? 

Celebrate Pencil Day by reading one of these great picture books and try out this simple pencil-themed activity for kids.

Arabella’s Magic Pencil Craft Download