The Art Institute of Chicago has released its first children’s book in 20 years, a move designed to bridge the gap between museum galleries and early childhood literacy. The new title, “ABCs at the Art Institute of Chicago,” serves as a curated alphabet book featuring 26 distinct works of art drawn from the museum’s expansive permanent collection, according to a report by Block Club Chicago.
By translating high art into a format accessible to toddlers and young learners, the museum is attempting to foster a lifelong connection to its collections. The book targets the “sweet spot” of readers aged 2 to 5, though curators noted it remains functional for older children looking to build visual literacy skills.
A curated journey through the museum’s collection
The selection process for the book involved balancing iconic masterpieces with “hidden gems” to ensure a diverse representation of the museum’s holdings. The book begins with a South German piece from approximately 1520 titled “Armor for Man and Horse,” a work from the George F. Harding Collection. It concludes with a graphic textile featuring zebras by Victor Vasarely.
The Art Institute of Chicago published its first children’s book, which features 26 works from the museum, in 20 years. https://t.co/W3ih57rDsx pic.twitter.com/0KwvUyf5eD
Authors Maura Flood, the museum’s Ryan Learning Center Director of Creative Spaces and Special Projects, and Robin Schnur, the Ryan Learning Center Woman’s Board Executive Director, worked to pair specific words with artworks that resonated emotionally and visually. The resulting collection includes:
- Quilts by Bisa Butler
- Prints by Rufino Tamayo and Hashiguchi Goyo
- A robot by Nam June Paik
- Works by Chicago artists, including a print by the late Tony Fitzpatrick
- The museum’s famous lion statues by sculptor Edward Kemeys
- Masterpieces such as Georges Seurat’s “Sunday on La Grande Jatte” and Georgia O’Keeffe’s “Sky Above Clouds IV”
Robin Schnur noted in an email to Block Club Chicago that while some beloved artworks were omitted during the selection process, the final 26 pieces create a “playful and surprising” experience for young readers.
Chicago’s publishing industry
The Art Institute’s foray into publishing arrives as some companies serving the children’s book market in the Chicago area report strong sales and steady growth. While the museum is expanding its reach, the industry at large is seeing a mix of volatility and resilience. For instance, Albert Whitman & Company, a centennial publisher of the Boxcar Children series, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in April 2025.
However, other regional players are seeing significant growth. Sourcebooks, based in Naperville, has seen its children’s books become a cornerstone of its business, accounting for 30% of total units sold in 2025. Similarly, Phoenix International Publications (PIP) reports that despite rising inflation and consumer anxiety, parents continue to invest in physical books for young children, particularly those offering “added value” through interactivity or evergreen themes.
Art Institute hosts family day event for book release
To mark the release, the Art Institute is hosting a family day event this Saturday at the Ryan Learning Center, located in the Modern Wing across from Millennium Park. The event, running from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., will feature live readings, clay work, and watercolor activities led by Chicago librarian Megan McFarlane and artist Annie Kielman.
For those unable to attend the festivities, “ABCs at the Art Institute of Chicago” is available for $15 at the museum’s shop and online. In an effort to ensure local accessibility, the book has also been distributed to every branch of the Chicago Public Library.
The museum’s Associate Vice President of Publishing, Katie Reilly, noted that alphabet books have long been “perennial best sellers” for the institution, so the museum decided to put their own spin on one.
