Giddy Up, Unicorn by Dani Gomez - OPTIONAL

Giddy Up, Unicorn by Dani Gomez. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2024. $18. 9781623544850

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

A little girl, Emma, loves unicorns. She draws unicorns and collects stuffed unicorns. Emma's dad reads her unicorn stories every night. Emma and her dad even dress up like unicorns for Halloween! As Emma gets older, she loses interest in unicorns. What will her dad do as Emma finds new interests?

Giddy Up, Unicorn is a sweet book about a dad supporting a daughter's interest and also what happens when a daughter grows up and her interests change. The text per page is minimal and the illustrations are very engaging. Emma and her dad cue white.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian 

Saving Piku by James Sellick and Craig Shuttlewood - ADVISABLE

Saving Piku by James Sellick and Craig Shuttlewood. PICTURE BOOK. New Frontier Publishing (Lerner), 2025. $19. 9781916790971

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The penguin moms are away fishing while the dads and chicks are on land. When an enormous beast of a storm kicks up, little Piku is almost frozen to death. It is only with the help and shared warmth of all of the other penguins that Piku might be saved.

Sellick takes what could be very distressing and turns it into a lovely story about community and helping. I could do without the big labels on the cover (“friendship over fear” “dealing with feeling”) - the book conveys the emotion without needing to be labelled.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

I’m Thankful for Nature by Lindsey Sagar - ADVISABLE

I’m Thankful for Nature by Lindsey Sagar. BOARD BOOK. Kane Miller, 2023. $9. 9781684645602

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A variety of children talk about the many seasons and beautiful flora that they love. The thankful books are a sweet way to get little ones to talk about what they are personally thankful for.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

I, Rock: a Geology Tale by Katie Slivensky and Steph Stilwell - ADVISABLE

I, Rock: a Geology Tale by Katie Slivensky and Steph Stilwell. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane (Simon), 2025. $20. 9781665940368

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Rock teaches us not just about the different kinds of rocks and crystals, but also takes us through his own millenial long journey - through earth’s mantle to the crust and through different phases of its existence. 

90% of Slivensky’s book is excellent - it is 100% interesting to look at and very clear and engaging. My Earth Science teachers (7th grade) did have a couple of little problems - early on (1.8 billion years) it shows the continents and the plates as we know them today. Several pages later (325 million years) it shows a supercontinent, which we assume is Pangea; we feel it would have been clearer if those two things were reversed. The other detail was the page showing, as it said, erosion - the little rock rolling down the hill. The teachers had a great debate about whether the definition is actual for weathering, not erosion - but the rock bouncing is showing erosion. That’s my teachers’ two cents. Otherwise, they still want to the book so that they can use it in their teaching.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Snow Problem and Other Stories by Greg Pizzoli - OPTIONAL

Snow Problem and Other Stories (Earl and Worm) by Greg Pizzoli, 69 pages. CHAPTER BOOK. Knopf (Random), 2025. $11. 9780593649749

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

It’s Earl’s birthday and Worm has surprises for him. Unfortunately, something seems to go wrong during each phase of the plan. Worm is definitely the Eeyore of the pair - Worm sees everything through a negative lens. Thankfully Earl is patient and forgiving.

While I agree that friends don’t have to match, I don’t know why one has to be negative to the other’s positive. They can be different in some other way.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Can You Find Taylor? Seek-and-Find Board Book - ADVISABLE

Can You Find Taylor? Seek-and-Find BOARD BOOK. Tiger Tales, 2025. $10. 9781664351851

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, ADULT - GIFT - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Enjoy nine pages of Taylor Swift hunting. Lots of pages also have 13 other things to find. Swifties young and old will have a fun time searching on each page. Even after searching, you can still spend time enjoying each scene.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Little Red and Big, Bad Fred by Ashley Belote - ESSENTIAL

Little Red and Big, Bad Fred by Ashley Belote. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2025. $19. 9780593902431

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Little Red loves his encounters in every season with Fred, the fluffy kitty that lives in the forest. Little Red thinks that Fred is the best. When Fred gets hurt one day, Red brings Fred to his Great Grandfather who informs Red that Fred is a DOG! Even better!

As you know the story of Little Red Riding Hood, you know Fred is really a wolf. Watching the two interact is pure gold. Belote has a perfect combination of text and illustrations creating a cohesive whole.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Five Little Penguins by Lily Murray and Holly Surplice - ADVISABLE

Five Little Penguins by Lily Murray and Holly Surplice. Lift-the-Flap BOARD BOOK. Templar (Candlewick), 2025. $10. 9781536246766

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

In the traditional countdown pattern, five little penguins are playing, but each time fewer penguins return. Will Mama be able to find them all?

Definitely one to read together - at least until little fingers learn to handle the pages with care. But so sweet. I love me a cute board book.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

The Christmas Sweater by Jan Brett - OPTIONAL

The Christmas Sweater by Jan Brett. PICTURE BOOK. Putnam (Penguin), 2025. $20. 9780593533918

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Ari the pug does not like his new, over-decorated, Christmas sweater. A curious magpie helps him with that. Thankfully, the boy and pug are able to follow the remnants back to safety.

For someone who wants to add an old-fashioned feeling book to their Christmas book stash. Brett’s detailed style lends itself to study each page. 

 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Every Space Between by Naseem Hrab and John Martz - OPTIONAL

Every Space Between by Naseem Hrab and John Martz. PICTURE BOOK. Groundwood, MARCH 2026. $20. 9781773067100

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Hrab explores the spaces between - that anticipatory space that stretches from the beginning to the end of a motion. This is a rare book that I wish it had been wordless. Usually Hrab is so on point with her work - this time I felt the words were too explanatory - told me the point - instead letting me discover the point. When I went back and only looked at the pictures, I had a better experience.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Unicorn Post by Emmy Yarlett - ADVISABLE

Unicorn Post by Emmy Yarlett. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2025. $18. 9781536246469

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

When a unicorn lands on her doorstep, the little girl works very hard to help it find a good home, taking it to places like a farm and a circus. Once they find what might be the perfect home, is it really perfect if they can’t be together?

Bartlett gives us delightful extra touches in her whimsical book perfect for unicorn lovers.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Go, Go, Dodo! by Huw Lewis Jones and Fred Blunt - ADVISABLE

Go, Go, Dodo! by Huw Lewis Jones and Fred Blunt. PICTURE BOOK. Tiger Tales, 2025. $19. 9781664300736

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Dodo is taking a pleasant stroll through the jungle - or is it? 

Dodo’s obliviousness reminds me of Sanderson’s Most Boring Book Ever. The fun is in the illustrations.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Welcome to the Cactus Hotel by Brenda Z. Guiberson and Megan Lloyd - ADVISABLE

Welcome to the Cactus Hotel by Brenda Z. Guiberson, illustrated by Megan Lloyd. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, 2024. $9. 9781250889270

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Let's meet the guests at the Cactus Hotel. A gila woodpecker, cactus bees, elf owls and red- tailed hawks are only a few animals that make cactus their home. Welcome to the Cactus Hotel tells us how the cactus helps so many animals in the desert! I found this non-fiction book to be very intriguing. It was a good way to teach students about animals that live in the desert. The illustrations are realistic and text is very minimal on each page. Would make a good read aloud!

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian 

Nelly: The Very Different Bird by Alex Macdonald - ESSENTIAL

Nelly: The Very Different Bird by Alex Macdonald. PICTURE BOOK. Frances Lincoln (Quarto), 2025. $19. 9781836000761

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

Nelly may not be able to fly, but with planning, practice, and determination, she can learn to do things in different ways. 

I had no idea I was going to love Nelly and Macdonald’s simple story so much. Nelly is a wonderful capsule-shaped little bird that I want to own and hug! Her grit shines through. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Hank Meets Frank by Maudie Powell-Tuck and Duncan Beedie - ADVISABLE

Hank Meets Frank by Maudie Powell-Tuck and Duncan Beedie. PICTURE BOOK. TIger Tales, 2025. $19. 9781664300729 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Cousin Frank is coming over and Hank is not very happy. Powell-Tuck adds a nice bit of fourth-wall-breaking along the way as the narrator tries to get the two birds to be nice to each other. 

Hank’s third book is as cute - maybe cuter - as the others. 

 Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Fluffy McWhiskers Cruchazaur Kaboom by Stephen W. Martin and Dan Tavis - ESSENTIAL

Fluffy McWhiskers Cruchazaur Kaboom. Explosions by Stephen W. Martin and cuteness by Dan Tavis. PICTURE BOOK. McElderry Books (Simon), 2025. $20. 9781665956123 

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

The Cruchazaur is so hungry that it is eating everything in the city. Only Fluffy and Potato and their cuteness explosion are going to be able to save the day! 

I may have missed the first Fluffy McWhiskers book, but I am sold! I can't wait to share this with so many little friends. Tavis includes so many little details in the illustrations - I could spend extra time just enjoying each page. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

A Crocodile Should Never Skip Breakfast by Colleen Larmour - ESSENTIAL

A Crocodile Should Never Skip Breakfast by Colleen Larmour. PICTURE BOOK. Kids Can Press, 2024. $11. 9781525308345

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Crocodile is having a rough morning. He got up late and doesn't have time for breakfast before he leaves for work. Croc's job is to ferry animals over the river on his back. As the morning wears on, Crocodile gets hungrier and hungrier. His passengers start to look tasty. Will they make it over the river without getting eaten?

A Crocodile Should Never Skip Breakfast is hilarious! The plot is funny and the illustrations are bright and eye-catching. It is even more funny because the narrator and the crocodile talk to each other. Would be an excellent read aloud!

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian 

Shuri Takes Control by Terrance Crawford and Dave Bardin - OPTIONAL

Shuri Takes Control (Marvel After-School Heroes) by Terrance Crawford, illustrated by Dave Bardin. CHAPTER BOOK. Simon, 2025. $18 (HC); $6 (PB). 9781665963770

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Shuri heads to the Stark Center to hang with Miles Morales and Gwen Stacy, but the Ringmaster has taken over their minds. Can Shuri evade the villain and save her friends?

A nice choice for 2nd, 3rd graders who are becoming independent readers, especially in paperback.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Piggypine by Richard T. Morris and Charles Santoso - ESSENTIAL

Piggypine by Richard T. Morris, pictures by Charles Santoso. PICTURE BOOK. Atheneum (Simon), 2025. $20. 9781665925303

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

The piggypine is an imaginary animal on a scrap of a sketch, but it really wants its own story. The narrator isn’t very sold on the idea and tries to tell the original story, but every author knows that characters have minds of their own!

Piggypine is awfully adorable! and I love an occasional picture book that breaks the fourth wall. Piggypine is adorable and his antics will please your listeners. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Sundust by Zeke Peña - ADVISABLE

Sundust written and illustrated by Zeke Peña. PICTURE BOOK. Penguin Young Readers Group (Penguin Random House), 2025. $20. 9780593700112

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW

Two latino siblings live in a border town in the southwestern desert and they go exploring beyond the town wall into the endless desert and heat.

Both a love letter to the desert biome and an exploration of interplay between the elements and the people who live in it, I ended up really liking this picture book. It has an odd sort of charm. It’s just strange enough that I wouldn’t use it for teaching about the desert, but might find a place when discussing poetry, even though it’s not quite a poem either.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes 

Jellyfish Scientist by Michelle Cusolito and Ellen Rooney - OPTIONAL

Jellyfish Scientist: Maude Delap and Her Mesmerizing Medusas by Michelle Cusolito, illustrated by Ellen Rooney. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2025. $19. 9781623545819

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

No one had ever raised a jellyfish in captivity from birth to adulthood, but Maude was determined. From the coast of her Irish village, Maude works hard on her experiment and keeps copious notes.

Cusolito takes us step by step through Delap’s process - thankfully Rooney’s illustrations add interest. A teacher might want to use this to show how determined and patient scientists need to be, but it won’t gather much casual interest from young readers.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

I’m Thankful for My World by Lindsay Sagar - ADVISABLE

I’m Thankful for My World by Lindsay Sagar. BOARD BOOK. Kane Miller, 2023. $9. 9781684645626

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Sagar has a sweet celebration of many things about the world and life that small ones can be thankful for. It was a good reminder for me too. I would love reading this at bedtime and sharing gratitude with little loved ones.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Something Happened to Our Mom by Ann Hazzard, PhD, Matietta Collins, PhD, and Marianne Celano, PhD - ADVISABLE

Something Happened to Our Mom: A Story about Parental Addiction by Ann Hazzard, PhD, Matietta Collins, PhD, and Marianne Celano, PhD PICTURE BOOK Magination Press, 2025. $19. 9781433847547 

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

APPEALS TO: SOME 

After Claire's mom recovers from a serious car accident, she starts acting strangely. Claire has to quit softball to take care of her brother and one morning, she calls 911 when her mom doesn't wake up. Her mother has an addiction. 

I love these titles from Magination Press. The text is honest and not judgmental. a child can see themselves or build empathy for a friend going through a similar situation. I like that Claire meets a friend in her own support group. The characters are white. 

Lisa Librarian 

Trusty Bus by Elizabeth Weiss Verdick and Jeff Harter - OPTIONAL

Trusty Bus by Elizabeth Weiss Verdick, illustrated by Jeff Harter. PICTURE BOOK. Simon and Schuster, 2025. $20. 9781665948494

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Trusty the Bus is proud of the hard work he does to carry the children to and from school each day.

I wasn’t sure if this book was supposed to rhyme or not. Most of the time it had rhymes and slant rhymes going on, without any kind of consistent rhythm. Other times it just didn’t. While the story is sweet, the choppy sentence structure made it clunky.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Grizelda the Green Hates Halloween by A. A. Livingston and Katya Longhi - ADVISABLE

Grizelda the Green Hates Halloween by A. A. Livingston, illustrated by Katya Longhi. PICTURE BOOK. Flamingo (Penguin), 2025. $15. 9780593692271

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Grizelda hates all of the Halloween hoopla - she just wants to be left alone! Try as she might, from exploding lights and stealing candy, nothing seems to deter the children. Maybe they can help Grizelda love the celebration?

Have to say - love that Livingston’s rhymes don’t revert to sing-songy drivel. And Grizelda’s change of heart is endearing.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS h

Hiding in Plain Sight by Beth Anderson and Sally Wern Comport - ADVISABALE

Hiding in Plain Sight: Kate Warne and the Race to Save Abraham Lincoln by Beth Anderson, illustrated by Sally Wern Comport. NON-FICTION, PICTURE BOOK Calkins Creek (Astra/Boyds Mill), 2025. $19. 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

Shortly after being elected President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln traveled by train from Springfield to Washington D.C. One of the cities he would pass through was Baltimore, the only southern city on his route. The Pinkertons discovered a plot to kill Lincoln there. There's wasn't much time to foil the plans of the assassins, so they needed to use their best man - who was a woman. Kate Warne - she was classy, smart and a great detective. Kate could protect the President. 

I loved the story - the telling was exciting and quickly paced. Comport's illustration look right out of the time period, as though originally printed on newsprint. And, there is so much back material! There's an afterword, some biographical info about Kate Warne, information on Lincoln and Slavery, the Railroads, and (my favorite) a description of the kind of clothes Kate would have worn to disguise herself. Also includes a bibliography of primary and secondary sources. 

Lisa Librarian

Selma by Tini Malina - OPTIONAL

Selma by Tini Malina. PICTURE BOOK. North South, 2026. $20. 9780735846067

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME 

Selma spins webs differently from all of the other spiders. Hers are artistic, visionary. One day she decides to spin a web from as high a place as she can find - not realizing that even she may go higher than she could ever imagine.

Sharp-eyed readers will see something in the illustrations to clue them into where Selma is headed.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

The Old Sleigh by Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey - ADVISABLE

The Old Sleigh by Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey. PICTURE BOOK. Norton, 2025. $19. 9781324054122 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

Over the years, as the village grows into a town, and then into a small city, the old sleigh brings warmth and light to everyone. Even when something breaks, more than one good thing comes of it. 

I love the Pumphrey’s style and that they celebrate traditional things in a loving way. This time, however, I had a problem with the continuity - the young boy should have grown up through the old sleigh’s story, providing the passage of time. And nothing was said about the horse that leads the sleigh - doing as much or more work than the sleigh itself. Charming, but my adult brain just can’t turn off the inconsistencies this time. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Bear Loves His Home by Karen Jameson and Ishaa Lobo - ADVISABLE

Bear Loves His Home by Karen Jameson, illustrated by Ishaa Lobo. PICTURE BOOK. Yosemite Conservancy, 2025. $19. 9781951179380

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Bear cub loves his wilderness home.  He loves the hills, waterfalls, pines, breeze, seeds, stumps, streams, fish, berries and honey.  He is looking for his independence, but mother is keeping a close eye on him.  At night, who does bear cub look for?

Bear Loves His Home is wonderful for kids who want to know more about real-life habits of black bear cubs.  I liked the way it reads as a simple, lush, poetic story with mother bear hiding on every page.  There are also back pages with bountiful facts about the American black bears life cycle and how everyone can help these animals.

PGPowers

Formula Fast by Matt Ralphs and Dragan Kordic - ADVISABLE

Formula Fast by Matt Ralphs, illustrated by Dragan Kordic. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Phaidon Press Limited, 2026. $20. 9781837291243

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Formula Fast is packed with facts, stats, and illustrations to answer all of the questions car-obsessed kids want to know. The reader will learn how to become a superstar driver. The reader will also learn all the history of formula one cars, drivers, and races, and the many careers available in the industry.

Formula Fast is an interesting ultimate guide for Formula One racing. Kids who love cars will enjoy this all encompassing beautifully illustrated book of facts. 

PGPowers 

The Secret World of Spider Webs by Jan Beccaloni and Namasri Niumim - ADVISABLE

The Secret World of Spider Webs by Jan Beccaloni, illustrated by Namasri Niumim. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Thalmes & Hudsen, 2025. $20. 9780500653845

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

The Secret World of Spiderwebs gives readers a dazzling glimpse into the remarkable work of spiders. You will learn about fourteen different kinds of spiderwebs, uses, and which spiders build that type of web. The reader also learns to appreciate spiders and how they keep the world from being overrun by insects.

Beccaloni has created a very interesting spine-tingling tribute to spiders. I really enjoyed the foil-stamped illustrations that accentuated the intricacy of spider-web designs.

PGPowers 

The Dia de Los Muertos Story by Andrea Jauregui De La Torre and Laura Gonzalez - ADVISABLE

The Dia de Los Muertos Story :  Celebrating the Never-Ending Bonds of Family by Andrea Jauregui De La Torre illustrated by Laura Gonzalez. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Becker & Mayer! Kids (Quarto), 2025. $19. 9781577155010

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The Dia de los Muertos Story explains the Mexican holiday Day of the Dead.  We learn about  the origins, honoring ancestors, building ofrendas (altars) with sugar skulls, papel picado,  and marigolds.  We learn about celebrating life and memory through family traditions, and that people only truly pass away when forgotten.

DeLaTorre depicts the rich history and joyful spirit of Day of the Dead making it accessible and meaningful for kids. Gonzalez's illustrations beautifully grasp the warm connection and colors of the holiday.

PGPowers

Eight Nights, Eight Lights by Natalie Barnes and Andrea Stegmaier - ADVISABLE

Eight Nights, Eight Lights by Natalie Barnes and Andrea Stegmaier. PICTURE BOOK. Kane Miller, 2022. $15. 9781684644414

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

During the eight days of Chanukah, families all over the city celebrate in many ways, but different families still light one more candle each night.

Barnes gives us a lovely Hanukkah story, without becoming a non-fiction tutorial. Barnes includes a quick background of the history along with all of the celebrations.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

The Talent Show by Ilaria Ranauro - ADVISABLE

The Talent Show by Ilaria Ranauro. PICTURE BOOK. Happy Yak  (Quarto Publishing Group), 2025. $15. 9780711294196

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Puddle the frog and Lettuce the snail are best friends.  They love doing everything together.  When they see a talent show flyer, Puddle wants Lettuce to sing with him.  Lettuce doesn't want to, but she will help Puddle get ready. On the day of the talent show Puddle loses his voice.  He still tries to perform.  Will Lettuce do something to help?

The Talent Show is a cute story about friendship and bravery.  The illustrations are simple, colorful, and sweet.

PGPowers

Interrupting Chicken Saves the Nutcracker by David Ezra Stein - ESSENTIAL

Interrupting Chicken Saves the Nutcracker by David Ezra Stein. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2025. $19. 9781536207798

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

The little red chicken has promised her papa that she will not interrupt The Nutcracker performance. However, when someone is being a bully or someone is in danger, little red chicken can’t stop herself from trying to save the day.

My favorite version of The Nutcracker to date. Little red chicken is adorable in her tutu and she is so earnest about why she is interrupting. Love her. However - her antics may give your little ones some ideas about what they might do at a holiday performance - so be very cautious! 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Luna Loves Christmas by Joseph Coelho and Fiona Lumbers - ADVISABLE

Luna Loves Christmas by Joseph Coelho and Fiona Lumbers. PICTURE BOOK. Kane Miller, 2023. $16. 9781684646418 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Luna’s parents may be divorced, but she and her parents are still able to have a joyful Christmas season. 

I love, love, love that Luna’s black father plays Santa Claus at the town hall Christmas dinner. And Coelho addresses divorced families at Christmas without shouting the topic. A great mirror and window picture book. Luna is biracial. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Night Flight by David Barclay Moore and Briana Mukodin Uchendu - ESSENTIAL

Night Flight by David Barclay Moore, illustrated by Briana Mukodin Uchendu. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick Press, 2025. $19. 9781536223262

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

A young black child snuggles into bed and imagines riding through the city upon a Pterosaur on a cold clear winter's night. The Pterosaur soars through the sky to help the child search for the missing peace to a peaceful sleep, finally ending up back home for loving parents to tuck them into bed.   

I immediately fell in love with the illustrations. They created the warm glow of a soft winter's night that left me feeling calm and comforted. The text was simple and beautifully phrased.  This is a perfect bedtime read. 

Parents are depicted as a same sex couple. 

Alissa Loves Books

Dasher and the Polar Bear by Matt Tavares

Dasher and the Polar Bear by Matt Tavares. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2025. $19. 9781536236316 

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

On his adventures before Christmas, Dasher meets a lonely polar who wishes he could fly. On Christmas Eve, Santa helps Dasher deliver one last surprise gift to his grateful new friend. 

Utterly charming. Tavares has really created a sweet little series. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

The Tour at School by Katie Clapham and Nadia Shireen - OPTIONAL

The Tour at School by Katie Clapham, illustrated by Nadia Shireen. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick Press, 2025. $19. 9781536242980

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Starting at a new school can be terrifying. The "New Student" tour guide takes her job very seriously as she excitedly ushers the newest student through the bathroom, library, playground and lunchroom while introducing some people, procedures, along with her own perception of each area.  She emphasizes the best thing is just being a friend. 

I'm not sure how comforting dogs running loose on the playground, or wide-eyed frightening illustrations would be to a new student.  Schools I have been at would never allow loud singing in the bathroom like the tour guide was teaching the new student to do.   The concept for a new student welcome book was there but missed the mark for me.

Diverse students are represented throughout the book.  

Alissa Loves Books

Forest School: The Moonlit Campout by Ruth Symons and Sebastian Braun - ADVISABLE

Forest School: The Moonlit Campout by Ruth Symons, illustrated by Sebastian Braun. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick Press, 2025. $15. 9781536241235

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Campout anyone?  All the forest animals arrive at Forest School to find out Owl has planned a special surprise.  Owl teaches the students all the essentials of nighttime camping beginning with gathering wood for a campfire, building the campfire, making a tasty campfire treat, stargazing and finally enjoying the crackling glow of the fire.  The author does not forget to emphasize the need for fire safety.  Sure to make readers happy campers!

I have many fond memories of sitting around a campfire.  The author's addition of occasional questions will help readers connect with the story.  I enjoyed the easy-to-understand definitions and instructions scattered throughout as well.  The illustrations are bright with plenty of detail to keep little ones engaged.  Who can resist adorable forest animals and delicious campfire banana splits!

Alissa Loves Books

Mega: The Most Enormous Animals Ever by Jules Howard and Gavin Scott. - ADVISABLE

Mega:  The Most Enormous Animals Ever by Jules Howard, illustrated by Gavin Scott. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Nosy Crow, 2025. $30. 9798887772004

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Mega: The Most Enormous Animals Ever explores Earth's largest creatures, both extinct and living, with a focus on megafauna like mammoths, whales, and giant birds.  There are detailed illustrations and facts that cover animal evolution, extinction, and conservation.  The dust jacket unfolds into a large poster of a mammoth.

Howard's text and facts are very captivating.  I especially loved the astonishing illustrations on each page.

PGPowers

You Can Say Hi With Only A Smile by Merriam Sarcia Saunders and Tracy Nishimura Bishop - ADVISABLE

You Can Say Hi With Only A Smile by Merriam Sarcia Saunders, illustrated by Tracy Nishimura Bishop. PICTURE BOOK. Magination Press, 2026. $19. 9781433845574

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Some people use words to greet you.  Others say hi with only a smile.  Some people use a nod while others use sign language.  Some kids use a tablet to talk for them.  Mothers may give you a hug.  How do you like to say hi?

You Can Say Hi With Only A Smile encourages kids to embrace different communication styles with empathy and confidence.  I liked the cute, sunny feel of the illustrations.

PGPowers

Consider the Birds by Jennifer Grant and Julianna Swaney - OPTIONAL

Consider the Birds by Jennifer Grant, illustrated by Julianna Swaney. PICTURE BOOK. Eerdmans Books For Young Readers, 2025. $19. 9780802855626

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

On a spring day at the birdfeeder, one hungry loud blue jay, two morning doves, three black-capped chickadees and more grab a quick bite.  Some try to keep the food for themselves.  Consider the birds of the air.  If God loves them, and feeds them, does he love and take care of you too?

Consider the Birds is a gentle lyrical story that helps children discover the wonders of nature and the love of God.  Swaney's illustrations are soft, simple, and endearing.

PGPowers

Mama's Special Wonton Soup by Wai Mei Wong and Xin Yue Zhu - ADVISABLE

Mama's Special Wonton Soup by Wai Mei Wong, illustrated by Xin Yue Zhu. PICTURE BOOK. Lantana Publishing, 2025. $19. 9781836290186

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

A young Chinese girl leaves her mama's house to buy meat for wonton soup. On the way to the market, she passes many villagers going about their business.  She greets them all with "Zao an".  Most of them give her something to eat to put in her basket.  She thanks them, and continues to the market.  When she finally makes it home, they have more food than she and her mama can eat.  Then the young girl thinks of a wonderful idea.

Mama's Special Wonton Soup is a charming story about sharing with each other.  I enjoyed the peaceful rural life portrayed, and the restful color pallet of the storytelling illustrations.

PGPowers

What Medicine Can Do by Gabrielle Balkan and Alberto Lot - ADVISABLE

What Medicine Can Do by Gabrielle Balkan, art by Alberto Lot. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Penguin, 2025. $20. 9798217051243

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Some of the animal children have different reasons why they need to see the doctor and take medicine.

Balkan does a very clear job of explaining different reasons we need the doctor, how the doctor interacts with us, and the usefulness of taking the right medicine. The book is a bit lengthy, but I liked the careful explanations and thoroughness of it. I could see reading it out loud a little at a time.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Boys Don't Fry by Kimberly Lee and Charlene Chua - OPTIONAL

Boys Don't Fry by Kimberly Lee, illustrated by Charlene Chua. PICTURE BOOK. Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, 2023. $19. 9780374389857

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

It is the eve of Lunar New Year, all of Jin's relatives have gathered to celebrate at his house.  His mother, grandmother and aunties are all cooking a big feast.  Jin would love to learn to cook.  Will they let him help?

Boys Don't Fry is a sweet story with very colorful pictures.  I love the message that everyone should be able to enjoy cooking!  This book also mentioned several dishes from Peranakan Chinese culture which I have never heard of before.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian

I’m Thankful for My Body by Lindsay Sagar. - OPTIONAL

I’m Thankful for My Body by Lindsay Sagar. BOARD BOOK. Kane Miller, 2023. $9. 9781684645596

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

The little children are thankful for all of the different parts of their bodies and ways that they can use them. I wish, however, that the body part on each page were more prominent so that little ones would learn by sight the name of each part.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

BB Interactive, BB Go, Go, Go Boat (Baby on Board) by Sebastian Braun - OPTIONAL

Go, Go, Go Boat (Baby on Board) by Sebastian Braun. BOARD BOOK. Templar Books, 2025. $10. 9781536241211

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Join the boat and the babies on a trip across the water. 

Very sturdy and a bit of fun. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

https://www.kingsenglish.com/item/fDcyhWd7_ajEfqHgkcO_RQ

Ada, Look at my Teeth by Daishu Ma - ADVISABLE

Ada, Look at my Teeth by Daishu Ma. BOARD BOOK. Candlewick, 2024. $8. 9781536235470

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Ada and her tiger look at their teeth and at the teeth of many other animals. I like that the end of the book encourages little ones to brush their teeth to keep their smiles bright.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

I’m Thankful for Animals by Lindsey Sagar - ADVISABLE

I’m Thankful for Animals by Lindsey Sagar. BOARD BOOK. Kane Miller, 2023. $9. 9781684645619

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The children in Sagar’s book are a delightful variety of types and abilities. And they are grateful for a fun array of animals for very unique reasons. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS