The art of words for the youngest recipients of literature is evidented in the picture book. The picture book is the backbone that connects the real and imaginary world of children's imagination. Contemporary Croatian picture book reveals the diversity of processed topics. Connection between literature and pedagogy is noticed in a contemporary problem picture book. As such, it thematizes developmental difficulties and through its papers presents a different view of children with developmental disabilities. It is a view that, through literature, touches the most vulnerable group of society, making them more tolerant and compassionate. The importance of the picture book as the 'first book of a child's life' is indisputable, and this is supported by the recognition of the importance of respecting diversity and conveying the message of equality of the individual within society. Through a detailed analysis of the picture book corpus with the theme of children with disabilities, literature is recognized as important because of its educational role within itself. Accordingly, research has been conducted on the extent to which the picture book helps children to understand children with disabilities and to respect diversity.