To See an Owl by Matthew Cordell - ADVISABLE

To See an Owl by Matthew Cordell. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books, 2025. $19. 9780593649893

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

For as long as she can remember, Janie has always thought about owls.  One of her teachers, Mr. Koji, has spent many years learning about and looking for owls.  This sparks Janie’s attention and she begins a careful composition of illustrations, maps of the woods, and a detailed journal of what she has learned about owls.  She and her mother go on many adventures hoping to finally spot an owl.  With a very patient and supportive mom, Janie’s dream of spotting an owl finally happens!

To See an Owl is a sweet story of determination, a desire of learning, and a special bond between mother and child and teacher and student.  The illustrations are done beautifully with colored pencil sketches that show expressions in great detail.  There is a perfect ending with few words and anticipation building until the very end.  Use this  in a unit on owls or the hobby of being a “birder”. 

Reviewer: sl

Penelope Weathervanes's Grumpy Day by James Serafino - ADVISABLE

Penelope Weathervanes's Grumpy Day by James Serafino. PICTURE BOOK. Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan), 2025. $19. 9781250350220

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Penelope Weathervane had big plans for a sunny day picnic, but she was having a grumpy day. Cloudy thoughts had taken over her mind.  Her picnic is ruined and she is getting worse by the second.  A stormfront of frustration, and scattered outbursts eventually turned into a torrential downpour of grumpiness and a flood of tears.  How could she ever escape from her grumpy feelings?

Serafino's story is deeply relatable to anyone who has ever found themselves trying to manage stormy emotions. I love the weather metaphor.  Serafino’s illustrations are amazing in helping us feel the range of emotions.

PGPowers

The Cake Problem: Equivalent and Simplified Fractions by Bill Wise and David Lynch - ADVISABLE

The Cake Problem: Equivalent and Simplified Fractions by Bill Wise, illustrated by David Lynch. PICTURE BOOK. Clavis Publishing Inc., 2025. $20. 9798890630285 

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Sheep tells Chicken and Goat that Farmer Ed gave them a delicious chocolate cake.  They realize that the cake has six sides and is in the shape of a hexagon.  After some playful bantering, they decide to do some math so that they can divide the cake into three equal pieces.  How can they figure out the correct fraction?

The Cake Problem makes learning fractions pretty easy with engaging illustrations, silly jokes, and fun animal characters.  It is a combination of a graphic novel and a picture book.  I like the end papers which feature examples of the mathematical concepts presented.  

PGPowers

Bijan Always Wins by Adib Khorram, illustrated by Michelle Tran - ADVISABLE

Bijan Always Wins by Adib Khorram, illustrated by Michelle Tran. PICTURE BOOK. Dial (Penguin), 2024. $14. 9780593325308

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Bijan loves to win.  In fact, it is his favorite thing.  He wins at all kinds of things like playing dinosaurs and tying his shoes.  He even wins at brushing his teeth.  Bijan's friends become tired of his "winning" attitude.  Will Bijan figure out that winning isn't everything before he loses all of his friends?

I really enjoyed the sweet message in this book.  Winning isn't everything is an important but difficult concept for some children to understand.   The illustrations are done in colored pencils with pastel colors and are very beautiful.  Bijan Always Wins would make a great read aloud.

The name Bijan is from Iran but the book does not mention his origins.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian

Aggie and the Ghost by Matthew Forsythe - ADVISABLE

Aggie and the Ghost by Matthew Forsythe. PICTURE BOOK. Simon & Schuster, 2025. $20. 9781534478206

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Aggie has moved into a house of her own, but it has a ghost that won’t leave her alone and won’t follow Aggie’ rules. If she is successful in getting rid of the ghost - might she miss it?

Forsythe’s books are dreamy and atmospheric. The stories are out of the norm - odd, but not silly. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

At the Rescue Cat Cafe by Anna Humphrey, illustrated by Kari Rust - ADVISABLE

At the Rescue Cat Cafe by Anna Humphrey, illustrated by Kari Rust. PICTURE BOOK. Owlkids Books, 2025. $19. 9781771475402

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

At the Rescue Cat Cafe there are many cat characters.  Handsome Henry, Adventurous Hitch, Mysterious Ming, and many others are waiting for their forever home. But you won't see Mouse - she hides most of the time.  Each day of the week, many different people come in and leave with a new cat friend or two.  Will someone ever find Mouse and take her home?

Humphrey's heartfelt story is about the connection humans can find with animals, and about the importance of adopting animals.  

A gay couple visits the cafe.

PGPowers

Ten Little Tractors: A Counting Storybook by Amanda Sobotka, illustrated by James Newman Gray - ADVISABLE

Ten Little Tractors: A Counting Storybook by Amanda Sobotka, illustrated by James Newman Gray. BOARD BOOK. Harper Collins, 2025. $15. 9781400346134

BUYING ADVISORY:  Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Ten Little Tractors on a farm are mowing in a line.  After a rooster comes by there are only nine tractors.  Each time the tractors work on a new spot, and a new animal arrives, one of the tractors goes - disappears until there is only one tractor.  What happened to all the rest of the tractors? 

Ten Little Tractors is just a fun simple hands on counting book in easy rhyme.   A child can touch the colorful built-in toys on each page.  I admired the cute and interesting artwork.

PGPowers

Over in the Garden by Janna Matthies, illustrated by Tisha Lee - ESSENTIAL

Over in the Garden by Janna Matthies, illustrated by Tisha Lee. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books, 2025. $19. 9780593809365

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Readers will enjoy scenes of digging, weeding, planting, composting, and harvesting in this fun and exciting remix on the children’s counting song, “Over in the Meadow.” Children not only practice counting from one to ten, but also learn all critical steps in gardening. “Grow,” said the Gardner. “We grow!” Said the FOUR. And their roots grew new shoots in the fresh, earthy floor.”

Matthies and Lee have given us an unexpected surprise.  For those who love the original “Over in the Meadow” song and love gardening, the book is a sweet treat.  The rhyming is perfectly written and easy to read.  The illustrations are unique and inviting.  We loved this exciting picture book!

Reviewer: sl

Magic Under the Bed by Carly Madden and Darcie Olley - ADVISABLE

Magic Under the Bed by Carly Madden and Darcie Olley. PICTURE BOOK. Happy Yak (Quarto), 2025. $18. 9780711297555

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

In the 12 bedtime scenes, can you find the six characters that are in every scene and the six new ones on each page?

I love the breezy, young feeling illustrations in this I Spy-like book. Madden and Olley have created a lovely way to calm down just before bed. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Willow and the Wildflowers by Matthew Schufman - ADVISABLE

Willow and the Wildflowers by Matthew Schufman. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books, 2025. $19. 9780593648308

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Willow, a bear,  is afraid of many things: water (so no pool parties), the dark (so no twilight dancing), and heights (so no hot-air balloon rides). Sitting inside her tree stump home, Willow misses out on everything beautiful outside. One thing that Willow does love is blooming wild flower fields.  Will this love eventually allow her to face her fears? This is an invitation she simply can’t resist. Read to find out how Willow overcomes her fears and makes several sweet friends along the way. 

Schufman has written an  an uplifting story that will help inspire children to face their fears and embrace the world around them.  The illustrations are deep and rich.  Willow and the Wildflowers is the perfect bed time story to spark discussion on life, fears, and the beauty in the world around us.

Reviewer: sl

Bob and Dob: a tale of tattling by Sean E. Avery - NO

Bob and Dob: a tale of tattling by Sean E. Avery. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2025. $19. 9781536236040

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - NO

APPEALS TO: SOME

Bob is an adventurous young bird, but his brother Dob is always telling on him to their mother. Mother tells Dob to stop tattling on Bob, but when Bob flies off and gets into real trouble, Dob’s story skills are needed to rescue him.

I’m torn in my feelings about this - when a child does something dangerous or breaks something, a parent wants to know. But also, a little sibling who tells a parent about every slight infraction becomes annoying really fast. I don’t think we want to teach children to lie for each other or to cover up a real problem. Plus Bob needed to learn to tell the truth when he broke that vase. I think this sends the wrong message.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Together We Remember by Jaxkie Morera and Violeta Encarnacion - OPTIONAL

Together We Remember by Jaxkie Morera, illustrated by Violeta Encarnacion. PICTURE BOOK. Make Me a World (Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593805640

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

For Giselle there is before, when Mami was still here, but now there is only after - with Mami no longer with them. In order to help herself and her Papi reclaim some of that before magic, Giselle takes the two of them on a magical journey of imagination. 

A sweet book about grief and taking little steps every day to feel a bit more healed. A child who is mourning for some reason will feel comforted.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road: a hard-boiled mystery by Brianna Caplan Sayres, illustrated by Mark Fearing - OPTIONAL

Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road by Brianna Caplan Sayres and Mark Fearing. Holiday House, 2025. $19. 9780823458271

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Inspector Poulet has been given the classic “Why did the chicken cross the road” for their very first case. A nice surprise awaits them at the end of the case.

I didn’t find that the joke’s solution at the end really sold the book for me. I prefer Tara Lazar’s mystery picture books. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Flamekraken and the Forest Fire by James Sellick and Patrick Corrigan - OPTIONAL

Flamekraken and the Forest Fire by James Sellick and Patrick Corrigan. PICTURE BOOK. Ivy Kids (Quarto), 2025. $20. 9781836003977

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The animals of the Evergreen Forest are calmly going about their day when an abandoned camp fire flares up and sets the forest on fire.  Only Flamekrarken, the fire engine and Heletor can save the day.

Sellick’s story is a little out there in terms of reality - deer and koalas living in the same habitat for one - but the danger is palpable and the animals are cute. Plus books about rescue vehicles are always popular.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The Found Things by Petr Horacek - OPTIONAL

The Found Things by Petr Horacek. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2025. $18. 9781536241303

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Rabbit wants to go for a walk, but can only find one sock. Searching the house she finds other articles of clothing.  When she heads outside, she also finds her friends, who have a nice surprise for her.

 A very simple story.  Horacek’s illustrations are the best part. I’d like it better as a board book.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Molly, Olive, and Dexter: Who’s Afraid of the Dark? by Catherine Rayner - ADVISABLE

Molly, Olive, and Dexter: Who’s Afraid of the Dark? by Catherine Rayner. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2025. $18. 9781536241761

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Three young animal friends are each a little scared as they see strange sights and hear unfamiliar sounds as the sun goes down in their forest home.

What a sweet way to talk to small children about what is “lurking” in the dark. Rayner’s illustrative style adds a nice flare to the story.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Steven Spielberg by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Keith Negley - ADVISABLE

Steven Spielberg (Little People Big Dreams) by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, illustrated by Keith Negley. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Frances Lincoln (Quarto), 2025 $16. 9781836007463

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Take a short trip through the life and movies of Steven Spielberg.

Vegara again boils a famous life down to its essence. Her books are a great jumping off point to a discussion about what makes a good biography.  

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Welcome to Whalebone Mansion by Laken Slate and Bindy James - ADVISABLE

Welcome to Whalebone Mansion: creatures that lurk at a whale fall by Laken Slate, illustrated by Bindy James. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2025. $18. 9781623545789

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

What kinds of creatures lurk around a whale fall?

Slate tries to create a creepy, haunted-house-like tone to a whale fall and the creatures that feed off of and help disintegrate the bones.  Because Melissa Stewart’s (https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/2023/09/whale-fall-exploring-ocean-floor.html) and Lynn Brunelle’s (https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/2024/07/life-after-whale-by-lynn-brunelle-and.html) picture books treat a whale fall reverently, I did not appreciate the haunted tone here. The drama feels unnecessary. That being said, I do like learning about whale falls and I know children do too. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

LOL: GOAT Laughs Out Loud by Kate & Jol Temple and Rebel Challenger. - OPTIONAL

LOL: GOAT Laughs Out Loud by Kate & Jol Temple, illustrated by Rebel Challenger. PICTURE BOOK. Scholastic, 2025. 415. 9781546159582

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Instead of laughing, GOAT just says LOL, confusing the duck nearby. The duck is offended by Goat’s non-laugh and tries his best to repurpose the LOL to actually be funny.

The illustrations are bright and silly.  Did I find myself actually laughing? Only a little. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Precious by Carlos Aponte - OPTIONAL

Precious by Carlos Aponte. PICTURE BOOK. Nancy Paulsen (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593856802

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

While his Dad is settling into a new job in the United States, Pedrito and the rest of the family continue their lives in Puerto Rico.  When a hurricane seeps through, they cobble their life back together and Pedrito rescues a small dog. Pedrito finds the dog's owner and the community helps each other to recover.

I wanted to enjoy this look at life recovering after a hurricane and a family coming together again, but the writing feels stiff, lacking immediacy or interest. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Ludwig Van Beethoven by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Romina Galotta - ADVISABLE

Ludwig Van Beethoven (Little People, Big Dreams) by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, illustrated by Romina Galotta. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Frances Lincoln (Quarto), 2025. $ 16. 9781836008156

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Beethoven’s talent as a pianist was recognized and cultivated by his father from his earliest age. He worked steadily as a teacher and composer - even as his hearing started to disappear. 

Beethoven’s life is a great inspiration for children with hearing loss. A nice short early biography for young readers.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Dancing with Water by Gwendolyn Wallace and Tonya Engel - OPTIONAL

Dancing with Water by Gwendolyn Wallace, illustrated by Tonya Engel. PICTURE BOOK. Kokila (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593617908 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

The child loves to go with their grandfather as he divines for water. The dance Grandpa makes the water feels magical to Kit. 

A celebration of the skill of water divination in the Black community. The child in the book is referred to by “they” pronouns. 

 Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Late Today by Jungstoon Huh and Myungae Lee - OPTIONAL

Late Today by Jungstoon Huh, illustrated by Myungae Lee. PICTURE BOOK. Eerdmans, 2025. $19. 9780802856494 

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

APPEALS TO: SOME 

The tiny kitten is crossing the busy bridge in Seoul. Most of the humans ignore the kitten’s peril. Will anyone care enough to stop and rescue him? Lee’s abstract illustrative style adds the right touch to a story set in the rain. Great for students who like to read the story through the illustrations, though it is short and simple. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Louis Braille by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Ana Albero - ADVISABLE

Louis Braille (Little People, Big Dreams) by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, illustrated by Ana Albero. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Frances Lincoln (Quarto), 2025. $ 16. 9781836007418 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Born in 1809, Louis Braille was blind from an accident by the time he was five. Inspired by a French military system, Louis spent more than more than four years perfecting his system that is now used all over the world. 

The Little People, Big Dreams series has such a great mix of well-known and lesser known people. Vegara manages to distill the story to the basics, keeping the story interesting but accessible. Braille’s story is such an inspiration. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Mystery Driver by Elizabeth Tracy and Anna Aronson - OPTIONAL

Mystery Driver: the story of Alice Johnson and the first soap box derby by Elizabeth Tracy, illustrated by Anna Aronson. PICTURE BOOK. MIT Kids Press, 2025. $19. 9781536231571 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

When the first soap box derby ran in 1933, the 3rd place winner was Alice, the only girl in the race. While I enjoy a good look at the things that girls have done that have been forgotten, I didn’t feel any fire in the reading. I did enjoy the old-fashioned charm of the illustrations. 

 Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson and Dan Santat - ESSENTIAL

Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson, illustrated by Dan Santat. PICTURE BOOK. Dial (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593616673 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL 

APPEALS TO: MANY 

The narrator wants you to know about various animals, but they really want you to know that you should NOT trust fish. You will have so much fun reading this to little ears! The hint of sarcasm in the narrator’s voice adds just the right humorous touch. Santat’s illustrations are as on point as always. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Let’s Get Spooky by Stepnaka Sekaninova and Lukas Figer - OPTIONAL

Let’s Get Spooky by Stepnaka Sekaninova and Lukas Figer. PICTURE BOOK. Albatross Books, 2025. $17. 9788000074498 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Take a tour through haunted spaces in this Eye Spy like book. Six scenes wait for your sharp eyes to find what the narrator has pointed out, plus you can explore other items amongst the illustrations. Before each scene is a little bit of information - not enough to make this into a non-fiction book, however. The pages are extra thick for some reason - they could have been regular thickness with more pages, but at least this way they will stand up to some hard use. 

 Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Hanukkah by Leslea Newman and Rotem Teplow - ADVISABLE

Hanukkah by Leslea Newman, illustrated by Rotem Teplow. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Words and Pictures (Quarto), 2025. $15. 9780711287228 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

Lior and his family are getting ready to celebrate Hanukkah. Family and friends join them over the eight days. 

Such a well crafted book about Hanukkah.  Newman does a great job of showing the holiday in a narrative version of a non-fiction book. The back matter includes crafts and food. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Cupig Saves Christmas by Claire Tatterfield and Rob Sayegh Jr. - ADVISABLE

Cupig Saves Christmas by Claire Tatterfield and Rob Sayegh Jr. PICTURE BOOK. Flamingo Books (Penguin), 2025. $15. 9780593693452 

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

APPEALS TO: SOME 

Santa needs Cupig help - he is very sick and someone needs to deliver the presents. Never mind that Cupig was his fourth choice. Cupig is eager to help, but as it sets out, it does something not quite right at each house. 

Cupig’s antics at each house will amuse the children. I found the illustrator’s choice of Cupig’s heart studded underwear to be interesting - but if they have read the first book, children will be used to it. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Tiger, It’s Snowing! by Daishu Ma - ADVISABLE

Tiger, It’s Snowing! by Daishu Ma. PICTURE BOOK. Post Wave, 2024. $19. 9798895090336

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Mei and Tiger go outside for a day of playing in the snow.

Mei and Tiger are sweet friends. They remind me of Calvin and Hobbes. I now wish that Calvin had picture books, not just the comic strip collections. But Ma’s illustrations are a sweet representation of the friendship. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

 

My Dad Thinks He’s a Scream by Katrina Germein and Tom Jellett - ADVISABLE

My Dad Thinks He’s a Scream by Katrina Germein, illustrated by Tom Jellett. PICTURE BOOK. Walker Books, 2025. $19. 9781761601606

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

From dressing in costumes, through trick-or-treating, and onto resting on the couch, Dad is full of jokes and puns.  He thinks he’s a scream.

Dad’s joke are pretty standard dad joke material.  Kids from the age of 6 up should find the puns and word play entertaining.  What I found odd was the repeated phrase “My dad thinks he’s a scream” falls flat if you just read it on the page.  A good performer could add some life to the phrase, but I found just reading it to be annoying.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

I Hate Everything! by Sophy Henn - ESSENTIAL

I Hate Everything! by Sophy Henn. PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane (Simon), 2025. $20. 9781665980494

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

The bigger ghost angrily proclaims that it hates EVERYTHING.  But the littler ghost helps it see that there are lots of things that it actually loves.

I don’t know why the characters are ghosts, but the message is so clear, so simple, and presented without preaching, that I can’t muster the outrage. I can’t wait to share this far and wide. While the characters are ghosts, it is not a Halloween book.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

In the Autumn Forest by Daniela Kulot - OPTIONAL

In the Autumn Forest by Daniela Kulot. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2025. $18. 9781623546199

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

As Autumn approaches, the animals of the forest mourn the end of the long, warm summer days - except Squirrel - nothing can go wrong as far as he is concerned.  When a huge storm whip up however, Squirrel finds himself needing a little help.

The illustrations evoke that autumnal feeling. All of the animals are gendered male. The translation from Danish is a little stilted and kids will need some help with some of the vocab.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The Street Where Santa Lives by Harriet Howe and Julia Christians - ADVISABLE

The Street Where Santa Lives by Harriet Howe, illustrated by Julia Christians. PICTURE BOOK. Tiger Tales, 2025. $19. 9781664300750 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

The little girl is sure that it is Santa who has moved in next door. But his favorite season is spring? And he prefers rabbits? She cultivates a relationship with him anyway, and rallies the neighborhood to help him when he gets sick. It also turns out that he is very good at fixing toys and things. Is he Santa or isn’t he? 

The little girl’s earnestness and eagerness for her neighbor to be Santa is endearing. Santa believers will embrace her wholeheartedly. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

S’more is Enough by Brenda S. Miles and Monika Filipina - OPTIONAL

S’more is Enough by Brenda S. Miles, illustrated by Monika Filipina. PICTURE BOOK. Magination Press, 2026. $19. 9781433847424

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

The S’more is not sure that being a s’more is enough, so he tries out being other kinds of sweets. Then he tries doing things and going places. What he finally realizes is that everything he has done has helped him become himself - and that is more than enough.

S’more is very cute and the book manages to be only slightly preachy on the way to its point. The back matter is filled with all kinds of advice and information that kids won’t read. But hopefully YOU as a trusted adult will read it and guide kids through the different developmental stages of their lives. Peek under the case cover. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Buffalo Fluffalo and Puffalo by Bess Kalb and Erin Kraan - ESSENTIAL

Buffalo Fluffalo and Puffalo by Bess Kalb and Erin Kraan. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2025. $19. 9780593810309

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

Buffalo Fluffalo is trying to sleep, but angry wails won’t let him. When he discovers a baby Puffalo, Fluff is wary, a bit jealous, and then cautiously helpful to the little ball of Puff. 

I like how Fluff proceeds through his emotions with the new little critter. I would share this with little ones who are getting a new sibling - as the emotions are the same. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Beverley, Bat Your Service by Kelly Collier - ADVISABLE

Beverley, Bat Your Service by Kelly Collier. PICTURE BOOK. Athenaeum (Simon), 2025. $20. 9781665962810

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Beverely is so eager to have someone to entertain is his big, old house. When a family of humans moves in, he gets right to work to settle them in, feed them, and entertain them.  After they run away screaming (except for the littlest girl), Beverley wonders if he will find anyone who will appreciate his caretaking.

Not every reader will appreciate Beverley’s attempts to please the humans - but it is a silly way to be grossed out.  And have fun talking about the ways that people’s expectations differ from the bat’s. What I don’t understand is why is a bat named Beverley also gendered as male? Considering how girls are under-represented in picture books - even as animal characters, it would have been an easy call to make.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Not Like Every Day: Finding Calm During School Lockdown Drills by Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic and Gabrielle Grimard - ADVISABLE

Not Like Every Day: Finding Calm During School Lockdown Drills by Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic, illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard. Random House, 2025. $19. 9780593652220

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Henry knows that it is just a drill, but for him every lockdown drill feels like the real thing, as his stomach gets twisted in knots. Even after the drill, Henry can’t bring himself to run and play like the other children. Together, he and his teacher work through some ways to help Henry find calm. 

Lockdown drills really are the worst - but in the life of a small child it can be even worse.  I love that Lucianovic and Grimard have given us a way to talk through the emotions that the drills stir up. 

A lovely variety of ethnicities are displayed. The back matter includes some questions you can use with students to help them talk about their feelings. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Just in Case: Saving Seeds in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault by Megan Clendenan and Brittany Cicchese - ADVISABLE

Just in Case: Saving Seeds in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault by Megan Clendenan, illustrated by Brittany Cicchese. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2025. $18. 9781623544805

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Starting in 2007, the country of Norway decided to build a gigantic vault into the permafrost of an island off of their coast - visible from the local airport. What would be inside this vault - seeds! 

Why would they spend so much money to preserve seeds?

Each page contains a bit of back matter to supplement the text and pictures - I love that it integrates well into the story.  And there is more back matter to further enlighten. I had no idea that seeds are such a serious topic. If you have a teacher who could fit this into their curriculum, I would highly recommend you acquire it. Check under the case cover, too. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

What’s For Dinner? by Larysa Maliush - ADVISABLE

What’s For Dinner? by Larysa Maliush. PICTURE BOOK. North South, MARCH 2026. $20. 9780735846142

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The Big Gray Wolf is off to hunt, but when he finds a lost, cute, fluffy bunny he has to make a decision - should he eat this little mouthful, or should he take the bunny home with the promise of a bigger meal like the note in the bunny’s pocket says?

Make sure to start at the first end papers and read all the way to the back end papers or you will miss important parts of the story. In a silly touch the bunnies wear clothes, but none of the wolves do. I enjoyed this nice riff on a classic, usually tragic, tale. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Falling Star by Linda Liu - ADVISABLE

Falling Star by Linda Liu. PICTURE BOOK. Henry Holt (Macmillan), 2025. $19. 9781250359490

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A beautiful star in the sky twinkles, dances, grants wishes, and burns bright competing with other stars for the spotlight. She feels too much pressure, and falls down from the sky. When she hits the Earth, her self-worth is at it's lowest. Will she find a new purpose that will bring back her glow?

Falling Star is definitely not for very young readers as they would not understand the concepts, but this story is charming for older children that will understand the struggles of motivations and self- confidence. I really enjoyed the simple yet dazzling illustrations. 

PGPowers 

Flurry, Float, and Fly: The Story of a Snowstorm by Laura Purdie Salas and Chiara Fedele

Flurry, Float, and Fly: The Story of a Snowstorm by Laura Purdie Salas, illustrated by Chiara Fedele. PICTURE BOOK. Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2025. $19. 9781547603503

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

A few children are watching the heavy gray clouds wishing for snow to flurry, float, and fly. The cold, wind, dust, and vapor work together to create something grand. High in the sky, tiny drops turn into ice and become frozen crystals. Overnight, the world is wearing white. Why have the children been hoping for snow?

Flurry, Float, and Fly! makes the scientific delicate process of creating snow feel like magic. I loved the informative, lyrical text and the beautiful art.

PGPowers 

Goodbye Spring, Hello Summer by Kenard Pak - ADVISABLE

Goodbye Spring, Hello Summer by Kenard Pak. PICTURE BOOK. Godwin Books ( Macmillan), 2025. $19. 9781250151735 

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A young girl enjoys the rain in spring. She roams the grassy plains and shady forests greeting all the signs of spring. Soon she greets the coming signs of Summer.

Goodbye Spring, Hello Summer is a sweet, gentle text that reminds us of the fresh feelings of spring and the liveliness of summer. I also enjoyed the soft and interesting illustrations.

PGPowers 

Home is a Wish by Julia Kuo - ADVISABLE

Home is a Wish by Julia Kuo. PICTURE BOOK. Roaring Brook Press (Macmillan), 2025. $19. 9781250881328 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A young Asian girl loves her home. Sometimes they leave, but they always come home. Then one day, they pack up all their belongings and fly on an airplane to somewhere new. The new apartment does not feel like home. Home is just a wish. Will she ever find her home again?

Home is a Wish is about moving and finding a new place to fit in, and how we carry home in our hearts. What is different becomes familiar. I enjoyed the sad, moody feelings that the beautiful illustrations created.

PGPowers 

Hello Daisy by Melanie Grenier - ADVISABLE

Hello Daisy by Melanie Grenier. BOARD BOOK. Owlkids Books Inc., 2025. $12. 9781771476829 

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

A happy, cheerful daisy greets the shining sun on a beautiful day. She greets the bee as it tickles her. She happily greets the wind and the clouds. All of a sudden, something falls on the daisy. Everything is dark, and she is scared, sad, and confused. She begins to cry. What has happened, and will anyone help her?

Hello Daisy! is a gentle, positive way to encourage young readers to respect our environment. I loved looking at things from the cute daisy's viewpoint. I also enjoyed the charming illustrations. 

PGPowers 

I Can Help On the Farm by David Hyde Costello - ADVISABLE

I Can Help On the Farm by David Hyde Costello. PICTURE BOOK. Farrar Straus Giroux (Macmillan), 2025. $15. 9780374391348 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

 Cute baby duck is lost in the tall grass. Dog hears him and says that he can help and leads baby duck to his mother. But then dog is itchy. Chicken says that she can help, and she pick off all the fleas. Then Chicken needs help because she is cold. Many animals on the farm help each other in turn. Soon, baby duck is lost again. Who will help him now?

Costello's story shows the rippling effects of kindness. Young children will understand the need to help each other through his adorable artwork and simple text. 

PGPowers

I Am a Cloud by Tjitske Kamphuis - ADVISABLE

I Am a Cloud by Tjitske Kamphuis NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Henry Holt (Macmillan), 2025, $19. 9781250360953 

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

 APPEALS TO: MANY

 A friendly cloud shows the reader all the different ways clouds change throughout the days and seasons. We learn about cumulus, wispy cirrus, and more. We learn how they pour rain or turn pink under the light of the sunrise. We learn to recognize the kind of cloud by their color and shape and their height above the earth. 

I'm a Cloud is a very simple yet beautiful text to teach children about clouds. The graphic and decorative artwork is mesmerizing. I felt the urge to go cloud gazing after reading this book. 

PGPowers 

Nightsong by Sally Soweol Han - ADVISABLE

Nightsong by Sally Soweol Han. PICTURE BOOK. Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2023. $19. 9781547615063

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Lewis and his mother get on a bus to go home after visiting with relatives in the big city. The Brummm of the engine lulls Lewis to sleep until he hears a big Pop!  Everyone gets off the bus.  While they are waiting for a new bus, Lewis hears interesting sounds in the dark countryside.  He begins to explore, as his mother reminds him not to go to far.  What sounds will Lewis find beyond the hedge?

Nightsong introduces young readers to the amazing sounds all around us.  Han's soft, grey illustrations create a cozy atmosphere which contrast with the bold color and sounds of each creature.

PGPowers

The Ogre Who Wasn't by Michael Morpurgo and Emily Gravett - ADVISABLE

The Ogre Who Wasn't by Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Emily Gravett. PICTURE BOOK. Two Hoots (Macmillan), 2023. $19. 9781035010264

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Once there was an ogre who lived in a shoe under Princess Clara's bed.  Clara had found him down by the pond. Clara was a strong-willed princess who liked running wild without shoes. She also loved collecting creepy-crawlies.  The castle staff was always upset with her, and her father the king was never home.  One unhappy day, Clara wished to the ogre that the mean people would go away, and that her father would come home.  How can the ogre who was really just a toad grant her wishes?

The Ogre Who Wasn't is a humorous light-hearted fairytale.  I wasn't thrilled with Princess Clara and her father being portrayed as undisciplined barefoot wild people who only cared about nature, but it made a funny tale.  Emily Gravett's illustrations are well done and delightful.

PGPowers

You Can Sit with Me by Rachel Tawil Kenyon and Tatiana Kamshilina - ADVISABLE

You Can Sit with Me by Rachel Tawil Kenyon, illustrated by Tatiana Kamshilina. PICTURE BOOK. Macmillan, 2025. $19. 9781250891143

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A little girl describes all of the times and situations her new friend can sit with her.

A sweet message of being aware of others and inviting them to sit with you.

A. Snow, Librarian