Mo-Love for Mo Willems

From heartwarming stories featuring lively, unforgettable characters to virtual events connecting young creators to their wide imagination, all through May, we’ve celebrated everything Author Mo Willems.

Educators and parents recognize the genius in Mo’s storytelling — how he introduces social concepts and provides solutions to various situations, all while entertaining and engaging kids of all ages.

As the month of May comes to a close, we want to take a look back at some of the Mo-love our First Book Community shared about some of their Mo-favorites.

Elephant and Piggie: Watch Me Throw the Ball!

“Kids were laughing and able to make connections. Present a positive note to not get upset when you are not always perfect, but just to have fun and enjoy an activity.”—Debbie J.

¡Me Rompí La Trompa! (I Broke My Trunk!, Spanish Edition)

“I was so happy to be able to give my ELL students a book they love to share with their families at home!”—Catherine G.

Elephant and Piggie: Elephants Cannot Dance!

“Our school is a Leader in Me school and these books have really helped my students connect the habits to these books. It helps them understand what we are learning about. This book is great for teaching perseverance and determination.”—Margarita D.

Plush: Pigeon

“We used it when we read the book and a different student got to squeeze him every time it came to that sentence in the book and then they passed it along to the next student!”—Maureen B.

Elephant and Piggie: Should I Share My Ice Cream?

“We love all things Mo Willems, but this title is especially helpful as an example of anxiety-driven indecisiveness. Poor Gerald! What if he makes the wrong choice? Sometimes, we just need to pick and move on!”—Jennifer P.

La Paloma Encuentra un Perro Caliente! (The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog, Spanish Edition)

“This book is hilarious in English and I am so glad it is available in Spanish to use in my Spanish Dual Language class. This is definitely a book that makes my kids get excited about reading.”—Sonia F.

Elephant and Piggie Bookends

“These cute, sturdy, metal bookends have added a bit of fun to our library! The students love the books by Mo Willems, and these bookends attract attention to our collection of his books.”—Lori G.

Elephant and Piggie: We Are in a Book!

“My students adore elephant and piggie. Their antics and adventures keep us amused and on the edge of our seats. Mo Willems touches our heart and funny bone with these wonderful stories. Children and adults can relate to their friendship!”—Shelia H.

Elephant and Piggie: A Big Guy Took My Ball!

“As always, Mo Willems books are a hit with the teachers and children in the pre-K classroom. We use his books to promote social skills in young children. All his books are favorites and we look forward to adding to our collection through First book.”—Eileen C.

Elephant and Piggie: Let’s Go for a Drive!

“This book is captivating for children of all ages. When reading it to to my mixed age classroom even the toddlers were interested. I love this book!”—Thandi A.

If you’re an educator serving children in need, visit the First Book Marketplace to explore more books from Mo Willems and leave your own review!