7 Hilarious (and Heartwarming) Tales of Sibling Rivalry

The Pain and the Great One, by Judy Blume and Debbie Ridpath Ohi
This timeless tale, which offers both the Big Sister and Little Brother perspective, is balanced and brilliant. And it’s also hilarious. Just as the title promises, the endearing nicknames appear early on, and you’ll enjoy more than a few chuckles as the two siblings engage in the age-old debate re: who is more worthy of parental affection.

Meaniehead, by Bruce Eric Kaplan
When it comes to sibling tales, few get closer to the savagery and unfurled emotion of a familial argument than Kaplan’s raw, darkly humorous approach. Depicted in comic illustrations, Henry and Eve are, at first, delightful children. But as their fable unfolds, an argument over an action figure quickly spirals out of control, and worldwide destruction is imminent. Heavily embellished, furiously far-fetched, and deeply satisfying, Kaplan’s instant classic shouldn’t be missed.

Peter’s Chair, by Ezra Jack Keats
Peter became a landmark character in children’s literature more than 50 years ago; his adventures are depicted in quietly luminous illustrations, and his straightforward insights are equally transcendent. A baby sister has arrived, and all of Peter’s baby furniture has been appropriated—and painted pink!—in order to accommodate her tiny frame. Like most impulsive preschoolers, Peter refuses to adopt a flexible mindset, choosing to take action instead. This warm tale demonstrates that growing up and sharing is the perfect antidote to older sibling angst.

Rules of the House, by Mac Barnett and Matt Myers
Ian is a rule follower, but his careless little sister Jenny can’t manage to observe a single directive. So when Ian notices a posted set of rules at the house they’re vacationing in, he thinks it might be the perfect opportunity for his little sib to learn a lesson. But in this wild, slapstick adventure, his plans quickly get out of hand, rendering this a summertime treat for siblings everywhere!

Louise Loves Art, by Kelly Light
From the very first vibrant illustration, it’s clear that Louise is bursting with creativity. Fittingly, our spunky heroine declares art to be her “imagination on the outside.” One day, as she busily prepares her masterpiece, we see her little brother (also named Art) assiduously working on his own mixed-media project. By accident, he grabs her piece de resistance, and before you can say “pastel!” he has cut it neatly in two! This story of passion, art, and resolving conflict will be a welcome addition to your bedtime collection.

My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother, by Patricia Polacco
Based on actual events from her childhood, Polacco’s touching tale is honest, playful, and affectionate. A big brother with a mop of blazing hair—and a gregarious demeanor to match—hogs the early pages of this classic. And he can run faster, jump farther, and throw harder than the frustrated younger sister who narrates. Finally, she finds something she can do to wipe the ostensibly smug grin from his face, but the battle of wills soon ends in disaster. When true colors are shown, will love and affection win the day? You’ll come back to this satisfying story again and again.

The Troublemaker, by Lauren Castillo
Out of the boredom of a summer afternoon comes a mischievous plan—a little boy resolves to take his sister’s bunny captive, and send the wretched critter on a high-seas adventure. After the deed is done, and dismay and disappointment ensue, the little boy attempts to right his wrong. But before he can, his own stuffed animal disappears. Vintage illustrations and warm prose reveal an unexpected villain in the midst—will the boy be able to figure out the mystery and save the stuffed creatures from the fearless fiend? Brothers and sisters everywhere will love finishing their day with this engaging tale.
What are your favorite sibling rivalry stories?