For the love of winter

In February, even the hardiest of Minnesotans sometimes need reminders that snow and cold can be fun. The following books, most of which were written by Minnesotans, celebrate the season our state is famous for!


Mukluk Ball

Written by Cloquet-based author Katherine Johnson, this simple story about a dance-loving bear captures the feeling of Northern Minnesota, as do beautiful illustrations that look like woodcuts.

The Mukluk Ball

Ages 3–7


Snow Day! A Story Told in 24 Poem Forms

Prolific author and St. Louis Park resident CA Nobens tells the story of a fun day home from school through two dozen poems, ranging from a simple limerick to a complex Shakespearean sonnet. Budding bards will appreciate the index that breaks down each poetic form.

Snow Day!

Ages 7 and up


Song for Snow

Two owl brothers fly through Paris, puzzling over an appropriate tune for snowfall. They come up with many silly sounds kids will love — especially when grownups try to make them!

Hoot and Peep A Song for Snow

Ages 3–5


Where Are Minnesotans

The answer to this book’s question is: Outside! For the people of our state, cold weather just presents new ways to fish, play sports, fly kites, hike and even have a parade (including the Saint Paul Winter Carnival, which receives a fun tribute).

Where Are All The Minnesotans?

Ages 3–7


When the Snow Falls

Each page of this charmer has a short poem made up of two-word sentences that convey the many special things that happen during a snowstorm. Here’s an example: “Flakes zag. Flakes zig. Grandpa whistles. We dig.”

When the Snow Falls

Ages 3–5