Books About Folk Songs · 69 titles considered

The Best Folk Songs Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about folk songs? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly!

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Chick!

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Folk Songs

Sale price

$759

Picture Book · Ages 2–4 · 1997

Hush Little Baby

By Sylvia Long

A mother soothes her child with promises of nature's gifts.

24 pages· 153 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud

5.4/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,026 ratings

$7.95Save 5%

Summary: In a heartwarming twist on a classic lullaby, a mother gently lulls her child to sleep, offering the comfort of a quilt, the melody of a banjo, and the serene beauty of nature. As night falls, each promise weaves a tapestry of love and tranquility, inviting young readers to dream alongside the soothing rhythm of her words. What wonders will the night bring as the child drifts into slumber?

Sale price

$674

Board Book · Ages 1–3 · 1972

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly

By Pam Adams · Classic Books with Holes series

Discover the whimsical tale of an old lady's curious appetite.

14 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 30,062 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Summary: An old lady swallows a fly, setting off a chain of unexpected events. With each gulp, her predicament grows, and the solution seems more bizarre. Ingenious die-cut holes and vibrant illustrations bring this classic nursery rhyme to life, inviting young readers to explore the unfolding mystery. What will she swallow next, and will it ever end? Perfect for curious minds, this timeless tale offers humor and surprise at every turn.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2019

Sharon, Lois and Bram's Skinnamarink

By Sharon Hampson, Lois Lilienstein, Bram Morrison, Qin Leng (Illustrator)

Join a joyful parade celebrating love and community through song.

40 pages

4.4/5 Goodreads · 362 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Summary: In a vibrant world where music unites, a spontaneous parade of people and animals forms, led by the enchanting tune of 'Skinnamarink.' This beloved song, a symbol of love and inclusion, brings together a diverse community, from tiny mice to a grand elephant. As they march, the essence of friendship and happiness fills the air. Will the magic of music and togetherness reveal the true meaning of 'Skinnamarink'? Dive into this delightful tale and discover how a simple melody can create a tapestry of joy and connection.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 1997

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly

By Simms Taback

Discover the chaos inside the old lady who swallowed a fly.

The New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Books Award (1997)Caldecott Honor (1998)

36 pages· 375 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

5.3/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 64,125 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Summary: Peek inside the chaos of an old lady's stomach as she swallows a fly, a spider, and more. This inventive take on a classic poem reveals the unexpected and whimsical world within, leaving you to wonder what she'll swallow next and why. Experience the familiar tale with a fresh, eye-popping twist that will captivate and amuse readers of all ages.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2011

The Twelve Days of Christmas

By Laurel Long

Discover hidden treasures in a lush countryside with each day's new gift.

32 pages

4.4/5 Goodreads · 495 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Summary: In a lush countryside, each day unveils a new gift, elegantly illustrated and hidden within the pages. As the gifts accumulate, readers are invited to search for golden rings, turtledoves, and more, all tucked into stunning paintings. This enchanting journey through a beloved song promises a visual treasure hunt that will captivate and delight, revealing a breathtaking culmination of all the gifts. Will you find them all?

Sale price

$574

Board Book · Ages 2–5 · 2013

Old MacDonald Had a Farm

By Golden Books, Anne Kennedy (Illustrator) · A Little Golden Book series

Rediscover a classic singalong in a vibrant new edition.

24 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 127 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Summary: Dive into a beloved children's singalong song, reimagined with vivid illustrations that bring each verse to life. This Little Golden Book edition invites young readers to explore a timeless melody, sparking joy and imagination with every page turn. What new adventures will the familiar tune inspire?

Sale price

$759

Board Book · Ages 0–3 · 1980

I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly

By Mary Ann Hoberman, Nadine Bernard Westcott (Illustrator)

An old lady swallows animals, but can she handle a horse?

22 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,565 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Summary: Join the whimsical journey of an old lady who swallows a fly, then a spider, and more, each animal bigger than the last. With playful rhymes and vibrant illustrations, this board book invites toddlers to guess what comes next. But when she swallows a horse, what will happen? Discover the surprising end to this classic tale, perfect for little hands and curious minds.

Sale price

$1498

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2022

The Twelve Cats of Christmas

By Feather Flores, Carrie Liao (Illustrator)

Twelve cats bring holiday chaos and charm in a festive twist on a classic carol.

48 pages· 421 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 382 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Summary: Join a playful group of twelve cats and a kitten as they turn the holiday season into a delightful adventure. From climbing Christmas trees to chasing ribbons, these mischievous felines bring chaos and joy to the classic carol, 'The Twelve Days of Christmas.' Will their antics lead to holiday cheer or festive mayhem? This charming picture book, filled with whimsical illustrations, invites readers to sing along and celebrate the quirks of our beloved furry friends. Perfect for cat lovers and holiday enthusiasts, it's a heartwarming tale of feline fun and festive spirit.

Sale price

$858

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2014

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly!

By Lucille Colandro, Jared Lee (Illustrator) · There Was an Old Lady series

An old lady swallows a series of animals in an attempt to catch a fly.

32 pages· 320 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 834 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Summary: In a whimsical twist on a classic tale, an old lady swallows a fly, a spider, and more, all to create a home brimming with unexpected pets. With each gulp, the mystery deepens—what will she swallow next? This playful story, filled with rhyming text and hilarious illustrations, invites young readers to join the fun and discover the surprising outcome. Dive into this wacky adventure and see how the old lady's peculiar appetite turns into a delightful menagerie. Perfect for curious minds and lovers of the unexpected!

Sale price

$674

Picture Book · Ages 3–5 · 2009

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Chick!

By Lucille Colandro, Jared Lee (Illustrator) · There Was an Old Lady series

A quirky old lady swallows a series of increasingly large objects, including a chick, straw, egg, candy, basket, and bow, all in the name of celebrating Easter.

32 pages· 340 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

4.0/5 Goodreads · 1,489 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Summary: In a whimsical twist on a classic tale, an old lady swallows a chick, straw, and more, creating an unexpected Easter basket. As she hops along, a chance encounter with the Easter Bunny leads to a surprising outcome. What happens when she trips? With rhymes and humor, this story promises delightful surprises for young readers.

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Folk Songs Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about folk songs for the youngest readers and listeners.

Sale price

$674

Hush, Little Alien

Ages 0–18 · 1999

An alien child receives cosmic gifts and a loving goodnight kiss.

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Cow!

Sale price

$699

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Cow!

Ages 0–3 · 2020

Why did the Old Lady swallow a cow and more? Discover the mystery!

Sale price

$699

Old Macdonald Had a Farm

Ages 1–3 · 1975

Discover the playful world of Old Macdonald's farm through interactive pages.

Sale price

$799

Old Macdonald Had a Farm

Ages 1–3 · 2008

Discover unexpected surprises on Old MacDonald's farm.

Sale price

$899

The Twelve Days of Christmas

Ages 0–3 · 1986

Rediscover the magic of Christmas in a charming board book.

Sale price

$599

This Old Man

Ages 2–6 · 2018

Discover counting through a playful rhyme with engaging illustrations.

Sale price

$895

Hush, Little Baby

Ages 1–5 · 1997

Discover a bedtime classic filled with warmth and love.

Sale price

$599

Wheels on the Bus

Ages 1–3 · 2019

Join a lively bus ride with a classic song.

Sale price

$899

Old MacDonald

Ages 0–5 · 2015

Join Grandma MacDonald on a playful farm adventure to find chick-chicks.

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Birthday Cake!

Sale price

$799

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Birthday Cake!

Ages 0–3 · 2019

An old lady swallows a cake and more. Can you guess why?

Sale price

$799

The 12 Days of Christmas

Ages 0–5 · 2018

Count down the 12 days of Christmas with a modern twist.

Sale price

$1299

Old MacDonald Had a Farm in Oregon

Ages 1–3 · 2018

Discover Oregon's unique animals in a playful farm adventure.

View all folk songs board books

Browse by age

Folk Songs Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about folk songs for preschool and elementary-age readers.

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Bell!

Sale price

$699

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Bell!

Ages 4–8 · 2006

An old lady swallows Christmas items, leading to a surprising twist.

There Was an Old Mummy Who Swallowed a Spider

Sale price

$1699

There Was an Old Mummy Who Swallowed a Spider

Ages 5–8 · 2015

A mummy swallows spooky things in a haunted adventure.

Sale price

$1799

Old Mikamba Had a Farm

Ages 3–5 · 2013

Explore African wildlife sounds on Old Mikamba's farm.

Sale price

$1799

The Twelve Days of Christmas

Ages 3–7 · 2014

Discover magical gifts and hidden surprises in a festive journey through 'The Twelve Days of Christmas.'

Sale price

$1699

The Twelve Days of Christmas

Ages 3–7 · 2017

Experience a classic carol through enchanting illustrations in this festive Christmas tale.

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Trout!

Sale price

$1099

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Trout!

Ages 4–8 · 1998

An old lady swallows the sea's creatures, but can she set them free?

Sale price

$1899

The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night

Ages 4–7 · 1961

A cunning fox prowls a quiet town, seeking a meal under the autumn moon.

Sale price

$1099

Always Room for One More

Ages 3–6 · 1965

A family opens their home to every traveler, revealing the power of kindness.

Sale price

$1699

Old MacDonald Had a Boat

Ages 3–5 · 2018

Farmers transform a rusty boat with noisy tools. What could go wrong?

Sale price

$799

Inch by Inch

Ages 4–8 · 1995

A young gardener faces challenges to make a garden grow.

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Shell!

Sale price

$699

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Shell!

Ages 4–8 · 2006

An old lady swallows various things with unexpected results.

There Was a Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow!

Sale price

$699

There Was a Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow!

Ages 4–8 · 1995

A cold lady swallows various objects to warm herself up, but ends up creating a snowman.

View all folk songs picture books

Our 10 Favorite Books About Folk Songs

Great books, picked for their age.

Folk Songs Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Folk Songs Picture Books

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