Papilio by Ben Clanton, Corey R. Tabor, and Andy Chou Musser - ADVISABLE

Papilio by Ben Clanton, Corey R. Tabor, and Andy Chou Musser. PICTURE BOOK. Viking (Penguin), 2025. $20. 9780593693254

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Papilio emerges from her egg and is very hungry. While eating her leaf, she falls to the ground. A mouse lifts her up to eat a strawberry. When she is full, she forms a chrysalis. While she is in this stage, she is oblivious to the birds that try to eat her and the mouse that saves her. When she emerges as a butterfly, there are still dangers to avoid. Will she ever learn to believe in herself and become a butterfly?

Papilio is about growing up, believing in yourself, making friends and learning to fly. The tale is told in three parts by three different authors and friends who each illustrated their own part. I think it all works nicely together.

PGPowers

Cats in Construction Hats written by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, illustrated by Leeza Hernandez - ADVISABLE

Cats in Construction Hats written by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, illustrated by Leeza Hernandez. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books (Penguin Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593706848

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-2) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SEVERAL

Cats & hats equals a pretty universal crowd-pleasing concept. Cats in hats with major construction vehicles is even more fun. Six colorful cats, along with their rat friends, work together to build a kitty haven, even with some mishaps along the way.

The simple rhymes, bright colors, and fun story is the perfect mix for entertaining young readers. I loved this story and could see little kids loving reading along and pointing out the things they know like the colors and sounds.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

The Big Squeeze by Molly Harris and Alison Hawkins - ESSENTIAL

The Big Squeeze by Molly Harris, illustrated by Alison Hawkins. PICTURE BOOK. Harper, 2024. $20. 9780063255586

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

Sponge feels she is up for any job around the kitchen.  Then one day everything seems to go wrong and she is left a gunky, gloppy mess - in total despair. When the Rubber GLoves appear asking her if she needs help, she reluctantly agrees.  She discovers that it is okay to ask to for help and it is okay to take time to refresh yourself.

SO DANG CUTE! adorable anthropomorphic kitchen items AND a great message without being preachy.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The Squish by Breanna Carzoo - ESSENTIAL

The Squish by Breanna Carzoo. PICTURE BOOK. Harper, 2024. $20. 9780063334939

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

THe sandcastle is so proud - until it gets squished with a single step. It keeps trying to reinvent itself, but even the weather and the ocean is against it. It isn’t until it finds a friend that it realizes that together they can survive the squishes.

Little kids aren’t going to understand, and I don’t think you should try to explain the deeper message to The Squish - let them enjoy the grit of the little sandcastle.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The Aliens Do Not Want to Go Home by Adam Gustavson - ADVISABLE

The Aliens Do Not Want to Go Home written and illustrated by Adam Gustavson. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2025. $18. 9781623544942

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-2), EL - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SEVERAL

Several young aliens are having the time of their lives playing together and getting up to some mischief on Earth. They do NOT want to go home and they find a million reasons why they need to stay and play more.

Adults and children alike will enjoy this never-ending playdate. The illustrations are cheeky and so much fun. Kids will love the juxtaposition of crazy alien critters alongside scenes from rural Americana, and grown ups will enjoy it knowing that parents across the galaxy deal with the same excuses. This could be used as a fun creative writing exemplar text or just a fun read aloud.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Flamingos are Pretty Funky: a [not so] serious guide by Abi Cushman - ESSENTIAL

Flamingos are Pretty Funky: a [not so] serious guide by Abi Cushman. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Greenwillow (Harper), 2024. $20. 9780063234444

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

Cushman combines a factual look at flamingos with a tongue-in-cheek side narration that will make you laugh. She has one other guide about Wombats.  I hope this is her niche and that she will write several (many) more nature books based on this premise.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Ursula Upside Down by Corey R. Tabor - ESSENTIAL

Ursula Upside Down by Corey R. Tabor. PICTURE BOOK. Balzer + Bray (Harper), 2024. $20. 9780063275560

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

Ursula swims through the days with the sun on her belly and the river weeds above - until one day another fish tells her she is swimming upside down. Now her world is in chaos!  Until another animal saves her and then gives her the key to living her life her way.

As the back matter explains, there really is a catfish that swims, as we see it, upside down. BUt Ursula’s story is more about figuring out what your life should look like for you - a great message in a book that is just so much fun to read, especially as you flip the book over and back to read it.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Not-A-Box CIty by Antoinette Portis - ESSENTIAL

Not-A-Box City by Antoinette Portis. PICTURE BOOK. Harper, 2024. $18. 9780061827280

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Rabbit is taking their boxes and building the best city ever.  Other animals want to help, but Rabbit gets frustrated and sends them all away. He quickly realizes, however, that having friends made it all fun.

I just heard that Apple+ is going to use the three Not-A-Box books as the basis for an animated series.  Crossing my fingers that it is as adorable as the books are. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Odder: an otter’s story by Katherine Applegate and Charles Santoso - ADVISABLE

Odder: an otter’s story by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Charles Santoso. PICTURE BOOK. Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan), 2025. $19. 9781250323590

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Odder is separated from her mother at a very young age, but rescued and taken to an aquarium, where she is taught most of the things an otter needs to know before she is released.  In the ocean she learns more skills from other otters.  One day she is badly injured and must remain at the aquarium, where she eventually embraces her role of otter pup surrogate mom.

Applegate has blended several otters’ stories for Odder. The back matter is very interesting, The story text is pretty long - if reading aloud, you might want to break this up.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The King of Books by Gina Perry - ADVISABLE

The King of Books by Gina Perry. PICTURE BOOK. Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan), JULY 2025. $19. 9781250330123

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The King has declared today to be Book Day and he does all kinds with them - except for reading. At the end of the day he throws the books away in the handy moat, but thai upsets the moat monster. Maybe if he finally reads one of the books he can figure out how to fix this problem with some help? 

Kids will delight in the antics of the king as he uses books for very un-booklike ways.  I enjoyed the other creatures trying to help the king. The very last page gives a little homage to the kings i Robin Hood.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The Fearless Storyteller by Cassie Silva, illustrated by Ana Zurita - ADVISABLE

The Fearless Storyteller by Cassie Silva, illustrated by Ana Zurita. PICTURE BOOK. Soaring Kite Books, 2025. $19. 9781958372777

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-2), EL - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SEVERAL

Our young narrator asks her father to read her a bedtime story, only to find out that her father gets nervous reading aloud. So during the course of the story, both the narrator and her father learn to face their fears together using positive visualizations.

My first thought was what a wonderful example of non-toxic masculinity, to see a father-figure character admit to having fears (in what turns out to be some sort of reading impairment), but then to also see that father-figure work to overcome those fears. Secondly, the author based the book off of her experiences with a parent that learned English as a second language, and it helped me further appreciate this text, dedicated to all those parents who have to face their fears, especially in a foreign language. A positive parent-child relationship, a positive storyline, and great characters. Love it!

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

The Camel Library by Marzieh Abbas and Anain Shaikh - ESSENTIAL

The Camel Library: a true story from Pakistan by Marzieh Abbas, illustrated by Anain Shaikh. PICTURE BOOK.  Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan), AUGUST 2025. $19. 9781250322029

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

Roshan the camel and his human Murad work hard to make a living in Pakistan.  When Covid arrives, Murad has to find a new way to make a living - could being a  mobile library fit the bill? 

What a lovely story! A quick internet search will give you lots of videos to share with students. There are now at least 12 camel libraries around Pakistan. I love these picture books showing that access to books is so important that people have used all kinds of different means to get them to the people who want and need them. Do another search for unconventional mobile libraries to start!

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Evelyn Witch Gets a Pet by Beth Ferry and Charles Santoso - ADVISABLE

Evelyn Witch Gets a Pet by Beth Ferry, illustrated by Charles Santoso. PICTURE BOOK. Roaring Brook (Macmillan), JULY 2025. $19. 9781250804211

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Evelyn has only enough coin to pay for a mystery egg for her new pet.  She tries all kinds of spells to make it hatch faster, but she realizes that time and patience are the only things that will get not only eggs, but everything else in her life to ripen just right.

Just right for a Halloween book without being just about Halloween.I love her bouncy green hair and the rest of Santoso’s whimsical drawings.  Ferry has written a nice interlude of repetition in the middle, which students will catch on to quickly and enjoy.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Cat’s Christmas by Alison Murray - ADVISABLE

Cat’s Christmas by Alison Murray. PICTURE BOOK. Bloomsbury, SEPTEMBER 2025. $19. 9781547617593

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Cat is not impressed by any of the trappings of Christmas, especially when a new wiggly present takes over its favorite lap. 

Murray’s story would be perfect in board book form. The bright illustrations are a lovely reflection of Christmas cheer and Cat behaves exactly like a cat would - especially the pouting. Finding a good cat book is much harder than finding a dog book.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Wolfgang in the Meadow by Kenny Wen - ADVISABLE

Wolfgang in the Meadow by Kenny Wen. PICTURE BOOK. Clarion (Harper), 2024. $20. 9780063288942

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Wolfgang, a ghost, loves the meadow - he practices spooky things, but he also enjoys the beauty around him.  When is picked as the successor to the Mighty Hubert who haunted the Dark Castle for 1000 years, he leaves the non-spooky things behind.  The haunting goes well for a long time, but one day WOlfgang realizes that something is missing.

As a person who loves things a bit off the beaten path, I love Wolfgang's tale and his insight into what was missing. Of course you can see this as a Halloween book, but Wolfgang is more than that.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Minh and the Magic Grains of Rice by Do Jguyet Ha and Le Phuong Quynh - ADVISABLE

Minh and the Magic Grains of Rice by Do Jguyet Ha, illustrated by Le Phuong Quynh. Translation by Bac H. Tran. PICTURE BOOK. Chronicle, 2025. $18. 9781797213330

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Minh refuses to eat any more and swats it out of his dad’s hand. THen he sees the grains scurrying away and follows them. The grains of rice teach him the story of how they were created and have Minh work to grow his own grains. 

Loosely based on Vietnamese folklore; I wouldn’t add this to a folklore collection, though. The anthropomorphic grains of rice are adorable; check out the cute endpapers. On the pages where Minh is working on the harvest, Ha gives us a type of Vietnamese working poem - I would read the rest of the pages to a group of students and then come back and read the poem. I enjoy this mystical journey picture book - for both story and illustrations.  I want a grain of rice stuffie of my own!

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

All By Myself (But Sometimes I Need a Little Help!) by Elizabeth Everett, illustrated by Shelley Hanmo - ADVISABLE

All By Myself (But Sometimes I Need a Little Help!) by Elizabeth Everett, illustrated by Shelley Hanmo. PICTURE BOOK. Soaring Kite Books, 2025. $19. 9781958372722

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-2) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: MANY

“I can do it!” may be a phrase that any parent of a young child hears all too often, but in this case, our young narrator shows all the things he can do by himself, and all the things that he needs help with, and that’s ok. A perfect story for children exploring their world and their abilities as they grow up, one skill at a time.

I loved the collaborative nature of this story, with our young narrator exploring his independence while also working with his grown-ups to do more difficult tasks. I also loved the cut-paper illustrations. They were colorful, fun, and quirky, and fit the tone of the story perfectly. This is definitely geared toward the younger end of the K-2 range, but I think it is a nice addition to your picture book collection.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

The Arguers by Corinna Luyken - OPTIONAL

The Arguers by Corinna Luyken. PICTURE BOOK. Rocky Pond (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9781984814425

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

The people of the kingdom have been arguing for so long.  Even when the king and queen declare an arguing contest, the people won’t stop arguing long enough to participate.

Enjoy the great endpapers and case cover. Luyken decided to make this one of those books where after the lesson is learned, it doesn’t actually take. As much as I enjoy the illustration and the initial story, that kind of regressive ending is always a bit disappointing for me. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Bear Feels Sad (#11) by Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman - ADVISABLE

Bear Feels Sad (#11) by Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman. PICTURE BOOK. McElderry (Simon), 2025. $20. 9781665936576

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

All of his friends are busy, so Bear feels a little lonely and sad. He tries to find something to do and feels a little better when he picks special flowers for each of his friends.

My summary sounds pretty bland, but I really like how Wilson weaves in the idea that doing something for someone else can always help us forget our own problems. Chapman’s illustrations are full of the vivid colors of spring. You don’t have to buy every Bear book to understand each of them. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Christmas Together with Polar Bear and Friends by the World of Eric Carle - ADVISABLE

Christmas Together with Polar Bear and Friends by the World of Eric Carle. PICTURE BOOK. Odd Dot (Macmillan), SEPTEMBER 2025. $10. 9781250366184

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A cute animal-centered picture book about how the animals in the snow might celebrate winter. I would love to see this as a board book with flaps to lift. Very simple.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Elvis & Romeo by David Soman and Jacky Davis - ESSENTIAL

Elvis & Romeo by David Soman and Jacky Davis. PICTURE BOOK. Aladdin (Simon), 2025. $$19. 9781665948067

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

Grumpy Elvis is not interested in making a new dog friend at the park.  Romeo, however, has other ideas. 

Elvis and Romeo are so cute and Elvis is so stubbornly grumpy! I loved watching them find common ground and learning to enjoy each other.  I can only hope that they meet up at the dog park again!

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

 

Space for Everyone by Seina Wedlick and Camilla Sucre - ADVISABLE

Space for Everyone by Seina Wedlick and Camilla Sucre. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2025. $19. 9780593647639

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Zainab hails from a  family of four, but their table is big enough to fit all of the family, friends and neighbors who gather around - this to celebrate with Zainab’s family before they move.  At their new home the table feels big for only four, but - surprise - people arrive to fill it again.

Wedlock has a joyful look at extended family and joyful gatherings of all kinds - from the every day to special. Is it just me, or do white people just not have the sense of extended family of other cultures? Certainly an inspiration.

The characters in the book are Black

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Otto and the Story Tree written and illustrated by Vivien Mildenberger - OPTIONAL

Otto and the Story Tree written and illustrated by Vivien Mildenberger. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books (Penguin Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593710784

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SOME

Otto is an old grumpy bird who lives alone in his house in the dust and dark because he doesn’t see the point in living otherwise. One day, an extraneous seed from one of his meals starts to take root and he begins to tell fantastical stories. Eventually, it grows into a magnificent tree that soon is home to dozens of creatures that love listening to his stories and Otto is no longer alone in the dust and dark.

I didn’t fully connect with the story, and I think young readers will also struggle. Otto isn’t a very likable character. The only interesting part of the book was when Otto would start each one of his stories at night, but you only get a snippet of the story before it moves on. The illustrations are vague and muddy, not adding much to the story. This is one that I would probably pass on purchasing.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Clara and the Man with Books in His Window by Maria Teresa Andruetto and Martina Trach - OPTIONAL

Clara and the Man with Books in His Window by Maria Teresa Andruetto and Martina Trach. PICTURE BOOK. Aldana Libros (Greystone), 2025. $20. 9781778402517

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Each day that Clara retrieves dirty laundry and returns clean laundry to the man, she wonders why he never leaves his house. She was taught to read by her grandmother and she always gazes fondly at the books she sees through the window. One day they start a conversation, and then a friendship, with him loaning her books and then one day inviting her in.  

Trach’s illustrative style is so different from what I am used to, I want to own the book just for that.  Andruetto’s story is more one that an adult will enjoy more than a child, so it would have to be read to children. 

Clara is from Argentina.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The Teeny-Weeny Unicorn’s Great Big Wish by Shawn Harris - ADVISABLE

The Teeny-Weeny Unicorn’s Great Big Wish by Shawn Harris. PICTURE BOOK. Knopf (Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593571910

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The teeny-weeny unicorn is tired of being teeny-weeny. The fairy who receives his wish sends him on a quest to find something even teeny-weenier than he is. 

Unicorns are adorable and teeny-weeny unicorns are even more lovable. Harris includes a delightful bit of foreshadowing for Unicorn’s answer to the fairy’s quest.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Down on the Bayou by Glenda Armand, illustrated by Alleanna Harris - ADVISABLE

Down on the Bayou by Glenda Armand and Alleanna Harris. PICTURE BOOK. Crown (Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593707883

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Troy is visiting his grandparents in Louisiana for the first time. He is excited, and a bit nervous, for his Grandpa to take him into the bayou. As they paddle around with Grandpa’s best friend, the men introduce Troy to the wonders and the history of the bayou.

SO many uses for Armand’s story - a bit biome, a bit Underground Railroad, lots of great bits of folklore and imagination.  And I love how Harris incorporates all of these little bits into the illustrations.  For any school near a bayou this is essential; others should include it as part of a trip around the US or for science or history.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Rose Weaves a Garden by Rashin Kheiriyeh - ADVISABLE

Rose Weaves a Garden by Rashin Kheiriyeh. PICTURE BOOK. Anne Schwartz Books (Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593705100

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Rose lives in Iran with her family, including her Baba joon (grandfather), who is a master rug weaver. When she shows him how she wants to learn, he takes her through the whole process of weaving, working side by side. When Baba joon becomes ill, ROse is worried, but she pours love for him into her rug making.

A celebration of family, a look at an art that most US children didn’t know exists, and includes a nod to natural dyes. Kheiriyeh tells a tender story of love and her illustrations evoke the vibrant colors and style of the famous Persian rugs. I once had my Geography students weave little rugs - i would have loved this picture book to read to them.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The Digger and the Dark by Joseph Kuefler - ADVISABLE

The Digger and the Dark by Joseph Kuefler. PICTURE BOOK.  Balzer + Bray (Harper), 2024. $20. 9780063237933

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The equipment building the playground are starting to make mistakes, so it is time to go to sleep. Two raccoons appear, however, and the trucks decide to play with them. THough they are tired the next day, they work and the raccoons appear for several nights keeping them all awake.

It looks like there are five DIgger books now - each of them fun.  And little ones loves books with machinery!

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Welcome Home Esmerelda by Daniela Ramirez, illustrated by Maribel Lechuga - ADVISABLE

Welcome Home Esmerelda by Daniela Ramirez, illustrated by Maribel Lechuga. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2025. $18. 9781623543907

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SOME

Esmerelda is part of a Mexican-American military family and they just got orders to move back to the United States. Esmerelda is nervous though, because although her family all lives in San Antonio, she’s never lived there and she is worried that it won’t feel like home.

This is the perfect book for any child facing a big change, either about to move or just recently moved. Esmerelda’s story helps them see that home is truly where the heart is and how easy it is to find your place when you are surrounded by people that love you. I loved how Spanish was sprinkled throughout the text and the celebration of family throughout the story.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

The Big Day by Rachel Plummer, illustrated by Forrest Burdett. - OPTIONAL

The Big Day by Rachel Plummer, illustrated by Forrest Burdett. PICTURE BOOK. Tiger Tales, 2025. $19. 9781664300668

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

The little human has been invited to the wedding of two giant (actual giants) grooms. He follows through on all the proper wedding etiquette and has a grand time that day, but doesn’t understand why he has been invited. Turns out the grooms want him to return home and spread a message about love. 

Burdett’s illustrations are so fun and vivid. The wedding looks like it was a grand party to attend. The ending falls flat - I feel that the giants should have had a personal connection with the small guest rather than inviting him just to make a point. Having two giant grooms already makes the point that Plummer so baldly states.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Piece Out by Alex Willan - ESSENTIAL

Piece Out by Alex Willan. PICTURE BOOK. Astra, 2025. $19. 9781662620935

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

The red piece of the Kaflooble game finds itself left behind on the floor after family game night. While he could take refuge under the S.O.F.A., he is determined to reunite with his best friend.

Red piece is a courageous character and I love his perspective and names for the items he encounters around the house.  While I am not impressed by the quality of the illustrations, in this case, the quality of the writing more than compensates. Older grades could also use the book for a discussion on perspective or imagination.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Who Ate the Little Bug? by Hector Dexet - OPTIONAL

Who Ate the Little Bug? by Hector Dexet. BOARD BOOK. Post Wave, 2024. $11. 9798895090091

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Supposedly something ate the bug, but which of the many creatures was it?

At first I thought Dexet wrote a cute combination of a creature book and a color book, but that concept breaks down - the color of the cutouts don’t match the color of the animals and some animal colors are not mentioned at all.  I do like the concentric circles and the feel of them, but this missed being a great book.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Tiger, Don’t Worry! by Darishu Ma - ADVISABLE

Tiger, Don’t Worry! by Darishu Ma. PICTURE BOOK. Post Wave, 2025. $19. 9798895090077

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Tiger and Mei want something to do, so they decide to help with harvesting and making the tea. Tiger’s enthusiasm makes a mess of everything, so the pair runs away. When they get hungry, they realize they must return and confess their mischief; Mei is sure everything will be all right, but Tiger is not so sure.

Ma’s vivid illustrations are a nice backdrop to her very simple story that at its heart is about making mistakes and apologizing, even if you are afraid. I would personally love this as a board book.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Oh, Carrots written & illustrated by Mariajo Ilustrajo - OPTIONAL

Oh, Carrots written & illustrated by Mariajo Ilustrajo. PICTURE BOOK. Frances Lincoln Children's Books (Quarto Publishing), 2025. $19. 9781836005001

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-2), EL - OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SOME

Mr. Rabbit is used to being alone, but he is getting a little lonely. As spring approaches, he plants a new field of carrot seeds, only to have one seed grow up to something unexpected! What is Mr. Rabbit going to do with a carrot that walks and talks?

What an odd little book! I do think the overall message of finding friendship in unexpected places is a good one, however, the story is a little silly. I would have liked to see Mr. Rabbit make friends other than ones he grew himself, and see him become a part of the community, instead of isolated like he was throughout the whole book.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Picking Tea with Baba by Xu Bin, illustrated by Yu Yin, translated by Shan Chen - ADVISABLE

Picking Tea with Baba by Xu Bin, illustrated by Yu Yin, translated by Shan Chen. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2025. $19. 9781623546236

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SOME

A young Chinese boy and his brother travel with their parents up a mountain to their tea garden to harvest fresh tea leaves for the day. Follow along to experience firsthand what is like to be a tea farmer in rural China, and also see how their family interacts in this sweet story.

Originally published in China and created by a Chinese author and illustrator, this picture book offers an authentic portrayal of rural Chinese life. It provides young American readers with a window into a different culture, highlighting distinctive landscapes, plants, animals, and daily activities typical of a Chinese family living in the country. I could see this being an important addition to a dual-language immersion classroom, or to any world language classroom.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

A Gift of Dust by Martha Brockenbrough and Martinez-Neal - ADVISABLE

A Gift of Dust by Martha Brockenbrough, illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Alfred A. Knopf (Random), 2025. $20. 9780593428429

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

A Gift of Dust reveals the hidden wonders of how Saharan Dust impacts the world.  This dust begins in Chad, West Africa, but winds carry it across the continent, and over the Atlantic ocean.  The dust nourishes the Amazon rain forest and the ocean. 

Brockenbrough creates a simple, intriguing, and informative  tale of nourishing dust for young readers.  Marinez-Neal's illustrations expansively and vividly bring this natural wonder to life.

PGPowers

Bear by Natalia Shaloshvili - OPTIONAL

Bear by Natalia Shaloshvili. PICTURE BOOK. Frances Lincoln (Quarto), 2025. $19. 9781836002611

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Bear is sitting on his favorite bench with his favorite things, but one by one other animals approach and soon he is crowded and everyone else has his things. When he explodes, everyone skedaddles.  However - when Duck walks by with something Bear likes, Bear asks if he can have it.

Well - this is the opposite of a great picture book that teaches a social without preaching. Instead, Brea does to Duck exactly what made him so mad at the others. Small children who read picture books won’t understand the hypocrisy unless someone points it out to them.  I had such high hopes; I liked Shaloshvili’s illustrations  - too bad I felt let down by the end.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The Best Garden in the World by Alice Courtley - ADVISABLE

The Best Garden in the World by Alice Courtley. PICTURE BOOK. Ivy Kids (Quarto), 2025. $20. 9781836001362

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Steve, a squirrel, has just moved to the forest from the big city.  WIth the help of the animals, he sets about building a garden just like the ones he is used to.  While it is beautiful, Steve has too many rules, and soon the animals stop going. Steve goes out to talk to each of them to listen to their problems with his idea of a garden, and soon he knows what he needs to do in order to bring his new friends back around.

What a fun, bright story about recognizing a problem, listening to constructive feedback, and crafting a solution. Though, your students won’t know that is what it is about.  They will see Steve and the other animals learning to be friends and enjoying nature together. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

One Girl’s Voice by Vivian Kirkfield and Rebecca Gibbon - ADVISABLE

One Girl’s Voice: How Lucy Stone helped change the law of the land by Vivian Kirkfield, illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Calkins Creek (Astra), 2025. $19. 9781662680458

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Born in 1818, Lucy Stone had to struggle for every word of education she received - her father let her study, but refused to pay for any of her books. While she was admitted to college, women were not allowed to speak in classes, debate, nor read their own speeches. Whenever Lucy could, she spoke up about the wrongs done to women - helping to form the American Equal RIghts Association with Susan B. Anthony. 

Many women today seem to have forgotten that women in America couldn’t have a credit card in their own name until 1974.  Kirkfield gives us a timely reminder of why and how women have fought, and why they still need to fight,  for their voices to be heard. I always enjoy Gibbon’s breezy illustrative style - she has illustrated several biographical picture books about women recently.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

These are My Rocks written & illustrated by Bethan Woollvin - ADVISABLE

These are My Rocks written & illustrated by Bethan Woollvin. PICTURE BOOK. Frances Lincoln Children's Books (Quarto Publishing), 2025. $19. 9781836004660

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-2) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SEVERAL

The omnipresent narrator takes the reader through all the different types of collections they have (big things, small things, pointy things, delicate things, etc), instructing them along the way on how to become an excellent collector of things.

This is a minimalist’s nightmare because this book is like an intro to hoarding 101, but it makes for a super fun read. I loved seeing the different collections, and I could see how an adult could ask the kids what makes them a collection, what similarities do they see in each group, etc. It could also be a fun starter for creative writing.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Bored Panda written by Mike Bender, illustrated by Chuck Dillon - ADVISABLE

Bored Panda written by Mike Bender, illustrated by Chuck Dillon. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books (Penguin Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593433607

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: MANY

Poor Panda! The power is out and he can no longer entertain himself with his panda pad. SO BORING. His mom tells him to take a walk in the woods to see what is out there. While he is exploring, Panda might actually just discover the secret to beating boredom.

A great reminder that being bored is actually the opportunity for discovery, I think this would be a favorite book for any young person who complains about being bored one too many times. I could see this being used as a read-aloud or a pre activity for an art project. It was cute and a fun celebration of being unplugged and the joys to be found when you are "bored".

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Diggers, Dozers and Dumpers by Ole Konnecke, translated by Melody Shaw - ADVISABLE

Diggers, Dozers and Dumpers by Ole Konnecke, translated by Melody Shaw. PICTURE BOOK. Gecko Press, 2025. $19. 9798765667552

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The animals all over the forest and farms are using different pieces of heavy machinery to accomplish their needs for the day. 

Konnecke uses a wry touch of humor for each animal’s story. I wouldn’t read this out loud, but like a Richard Scarry book, each two-page spread can be enjoyed alone. Konnecke also includes facts about the machines and sometimes the activity.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The Girl Who Tested the Waters: Ellen Swallow, Environmental Scientist by Patricia Danile, illustrated by Junyi Wu - ADVISABLE

The Girl Who Tested the Waters: Ellen Swallow, Environmental Scientist by Patricia Danile, illustrated by Junyi Wu. PICTURE BOOK BIOGRAPHY. MIT Kids Press (Candlewick), 2025. $19. 9781536230055

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Ellen grew up in wide open spaces, helping her parents around their farm and roam the fields, instilling her with a deep love of nature. First schooled on the farm, then at Vassar WOmen’s COllege, Ellen continued on as the first female admitted to MIT - though the first year was rough, as none of the professors wanted her in class. After she proved her worth , however, she was tasked in 1872 with testing the water around Boston to root out the sources of and kinds of pollution that were killing the citizens. 

Ellen had many more accomplishments that are acknowledged in the picture book. She even coined the word ecology to explain the science she had created. I particularly found it interesting that she founded the American Home Economics Association to teach women about healthier homes - Home Ec certainly has a different reputation in the present day. Classes that talk about scientists, women’s firsts, pollution, or chemistry could all hold Ellen up as an example. I’m not sure i would take the time needed to read this aloud in whole, but I would share parts and have it available as a free time read.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

A Surprise in the Wood by Cosetta Zanotti and Lucia Scuderi, translated by Angus Yuen-Killick - ADVISABLE

A Surprise in the Wood by Cosetta Zanotti and Lucia Scuderi, translated by Angus Yuen-Killick. PICTURE BOOK. Red Comet Press, 2024. $19. 9781636550923

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Mama and Papa Bear have been waiting a long time for a special delivery.  When it finally arrives, the delivery is as anticipated, but they know the fish is theirs. The small family sets off to find a place to be family together.  While the other forest animals are mystified at first, they realize how much they miss the Bears and go off in search of them. 

I love the moody feel of Scuderi’s illustrations, very shady forest-like.  Zanotti lays out what needs to be known for the story without over-explaining or being obvious about the purpose of the tale. The back matter is nice without being a must read part of the book. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

My Friend Levar by Ezra Edmond, illustrated by Jenna Nahyun Chung - OPTIONAL

My Friend Levar by Ezra Edmond, illustrated by Jenna Nahyun Chung. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2025. $18. 9781623543174

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

The little boy loves seeing Levar, the kind man who shares his love for books and his adventures with the boy through the tv. Then wouldn’t you know - one day at the drug store - there is Levar!  Mom snaps a picture of the two together and he shares the photo with his class - discovering that many of his classmates know and love Levar too.

While this is a lovely celebration for children (now adults) who grew up watching Reading Rainbow, I don’t see why kids who don’t know Reading Rainbow and don’t know Levar Burton as the host would be interested in learning about him.  Maybe if their teacher shows a Reading Rainbow episode in class each day, or at least once a week?

The characters are Black.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Wind Watchers by Micha Archer - ADVISABLE

Wind Watchers by Micha Archer. PICTURE BOOK. Nancy Paulsen (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593616550

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

With a tiny bit of personification, Archer celebrates the many moods of Wind through the seasons. Her lovely illustrations help us feel Wind blowing, blustering, storming or shows its absence during the long, hot summer days. I love how much outside the children are - enjoying nature and feeling Wind’s moods. A lovely book - if I taught elementary school it would inspire me to have daily walks and a class wind report. Check out the case wrap.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The House on the Canal by Thomas Harding and Britte Teckentrup - OPTIONAL

The House on the Canal: the story of the house that hid Anne Frank by Thomas Harding, illustrated by Britte Teckentrup. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2025. $20. 9781536240702

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Harding takes us through the history of a house in Amsterdam - from the empty and then the building, to Otto Frank and his family in hiding during WWII and to its present day as a museum and learning center about the Holocaust. 

If anyone teaches about Anne Frank at your school, I would buy this in a heartbeat. I love the work that was done to let us know the full history of the house - not just the few years Anne and her family hid there. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Me and Lavender by Melody C. Peugh and Eve Farb - ADVISABLE

Me and Lavender by Melody C. Peugh, illustrated by Eve Farb. PICTURE BOOK. Flashlight, 2025. $ 19. 9781962269230

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The little girl loves having adventures with her stuffie, Lavender, a lavender shaded elephant  Though the girl tries very hard to stay clean for her mother’s tea party, sometimes muddy just shouldn't be avoided.

Reminiscent of Calvin’s adventures with Hobbes with lots of fun, imaginative play.  I love that the mom is not angry when everyone gets dirty. Farb’s illustrations lean into the imaginative play, expressing joy and love.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Art’bracadabra by Raphael Garnier - ADVISABLE

Art’bracadabra by Raphael Garnier. NON-FICTION BOARD BOOK. Post Wave Children’s Books, 2024. $27. 9798895090152

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

I call this a board book because of the thick paper it is printed on.  But while the images on the pages are simple, the concepts of the book are not so simple, taking the reader from the first dot on the page and through to composition and perspective. I found the artist/author to be only mildly successful in teaching me each concept. And for the American eye, the mustard, purple, and red-orange color palette is a big change from our customary red, yellow, blue palette for beginning concepts. I would like this for home to enjoy. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Echo by Adam Rex - ESSENTIAL

Echo by Adam Rex. PICTURE BOOK Dial (Penguin), 2025. $20. 9780593699324

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - ESSENTIAL 

APPEALS TO: MANY 

Junior Junior was born in a house on the side of the mountain with another mountain very close by. When he cried it echoed. As he grew the echo replied from across the valley to everything Junior Junior said. He got very good at shouting good things about himself and liked hearing them echoed. But when a neighbor moves in, and it's a girl who doesn't agree with everything he says, Junior leaves home to find Echo. 

Honestly, I can't get enough of Adam Rex, his stories are funny and so cleverly illustrated. I loved the characters, the neighbor girl, and the Nanny are so fun. Junior Junior is spoiled - maybe by himself. A super fun read aloud that I'm highly recommending. The characters are white. 

Lisa Librarian