For younger readers:
* The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle: The caterpillar's constant hunger is a clear foreshadowing of its transformation into a beautiful butterfly.
* Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak: The protagonist's wild behavior and imaginary world foreshadow his eventual return to reality.
* Corduroy by Don Freeman: Corduroy's missing button acts as a symbol of his incomplete nature, foreshadowing his journey to find a new one and become whole.
* Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin: The cows' increasing demands for better living conditions foreshadow their eventual strike and success.
For older readers:
* The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch: The princess's choice to wear a paper bag, though unconventional, foreshadows her resourceful and unconventional nature.
* The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein: The tree's willingness to sacrifice its parts for the boy foreshadows the eventual loss of its branches and trunk, yet also its lasting love.
* The Story of Babar by Jean de Brunhoff: Babar's journey from a young elephant to a king foreshadows his eventual rule and responsibility for his people.
* The Lorax by Dr. Seuss: The Lorax's warnings about the dangers of pollution foreshadow the environmental destruction that follows.
Beyond the above, consider these elements to identify foreshadowing in picture books:
* Objects: Unusual objects or recurring symbols can hint at future events.
* Dialogue: Characters' words, even seemingly innocuous ones, can offer clues about what's to come.
* Visual cues: Illustrations can subtly reveal foreshadowing through changes in the setting, character expressions, or recurring imagery.
Enjoy exploring these picture books and uncovering their hidden messages!