Bear in the Air by Allison Wortche and Cat Min - ADVISABLE

Bear in the Air by Allison Wortche and Cat Min. PICTURE BOOK. Alfred A. Knopf (Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593704820

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Bear is on top of the world!  He is so proud to be soaring in a hot-air balloon all by himself.  He calls down hello to his friends Fox and Hare as he flies by.  He sees his sisters climbing a tall tree.  They want him to climb with them.  He sees Goat and other friends all wanting him to do things with them.  He says no to all because Bear has a secret.  How will he get down?

Bear in the Air is a fun story about feeling independent and knowing when to ask for help. MIn's illustrations are colorful and delightful.

PGPowers

Heroes of 1776: The Story of the Declaration of Independence by Neil Gorsuch, Janie Nitze and Chris Ellison - ADVISABLE

Heroes of 1776: The Story of the Declaration of Independence by Neil Gorsuch, Janie Nitze and Chris Ellison. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Harper, 2026. $22. 9780063473973

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Gorsuch (the Supreme Court Justice) gives us a new look at the events leading up to, during, and after the creation of the Declaration of Independence. The book is quite text heavy - I can’t see a teacher reading all of it aloud in one sitting. My personal favorite part is looking into what happened to some of the signers during the revolution and a bit afterwards - stories I don’t remember hearing before. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Honey by David Ezra Stein - ADVISABLE

Honey by David Ezra Stein. PICTURE BOOK. Nancy Paulsen Books (Penguin), 2018. $17. 9781524737863

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

After a long winter sleep, Bear wakes up with only one thing on his mind: honey! Alas, it is too soon for honey, so Bear must wait. It’s hard to be patient, but fortunately, the world around him is also waking up, reminding him of other things he loves—like warm grass, berries, rain to dance in, and a creek to swim in. Then, one day, he hears a welcome buzzing sound.  Is it finally time for honey?

Stein celebrates the joy of savoring something you love, and encourages learning to be patient.  Stein's illustrations are adorable.

PGPowers

Teeny and Tilly by Beanie Feldstein and Laura Watkins - ADVISABLE

Teeny and Tilly by Beanie Feldstein, illustrated by Laura Watkins. PICTURE BOOK. Philomel (Penguin Random House), 2026. $20. 9798217039265

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SEVERAL

Teeny, short for Valentina, has always been the smallest one in her class. Her old classmates used to bully her for it. Now she is starting at a new school and she is very nervous. When the tallest kid Teeny has ever seen comes up to her, will history repeat itself or will Teeny make a new friend?

This is a sweet story about making unexpected friends. I liked the opposites-attract friendship and how Teeny adapts to her new classroom. I think it would be a great book to have in your classroom library, especially for easing new students into your school. However, it's too wordy for a comfortable read-aloud text. I think the illustrations are fun and inviting, though.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

The Case of Old MacDonald and His Farm by Mark Teague - ADVISABLE

The Case of Old MacDonald and His Farm by Mark Teague. PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane Books  (Simon and Schuster), 2026. $20. 9781665990769

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Old MacDonald called the police to come and investigate a disturbance on his farm.  MacDonald shows officer Busby the faces painted on his cabbages, the duck's corn dumped in the lake, pizza delivered to the goats, mustaches painted on the cows, hats on the chickens, and more.  Who could be doing all of this to the animals on his farm and why?

The Case of Old MacDonald and His Farm is an enjoyably silly whodunit mystery.   I especially loved Teague's outstanding humorous illustrations.

PGPowers

Who’s Making that Big Stink? by Darrin Lunde and Erica J. Chen - OPTIONAL

Who’s Making that Big Stink? by Darrin Lunde and Erica J. Chen. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, JUNE 2026. $18. 9781623546250

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

COme along and meet several flora or fauna and read about the big stinks they bring to the world.

Chen’s illustrations are a real draw for avid picture book gazers. The non-fiction information on each page, though, is short, so i don’t think it will an older reader’s attention as an information source.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

I Used to be a Dinosaur by Casey Lyall and Laurie Keller - ESSENTIAL

I Used to be a Dinosaur by Casey Lyall and Laurie Keller. PICTURE BOOK. Greenwillow (Harper), JUNE 2026. $20. 9780062890313

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

The chicken is discontented with its chicken life, reminiscing the days when they were dinosaurs. Chicken decides that though they are no longer a dino in fact, they can still be a dino at heart.

Lyall includes a little back matter to explain the evolution from dinosaur to chicken, too. I thoroughly enjoyed this twist on the “You are Awesome” style of picture book.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

That Bird Can Draw! by Ged Adamson - ADVISABLE

That Bird Can Draw! by Ged Adamson. PICTURE BOOK. Nosy Crow, 2026. $19. 9798887772363

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SEVERAL

Our nameless protagonist sees herself as a great artist, but that self-image is tested when her grandfather gets a new bird named Vera with some serious artistic skill. As a result, the young granddaughter considers hanging up her artist’s cap forever, until Vera the bird shows her that there is more than enough room in the world for all kinds of artists.

I adored this picture book about an artist who finds herself in competition with a talented bird. I thought the different artistic styles represented were fun, e.g. sculpture, paper art, mosaic, pencil, etc. I could see it being used in an art class as a read-aloud. I also loved the overall message that everyone can be an artist.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

 

The Great Gathering Place by Naomi McIlwrait and Onedove - ADVISABLE

The Great Gathering Place by Naomi McIlwrait and Onedove. PICTURE BOOK. Kids Can Press, 2026. $20. 9781525310102

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

A modern day indigenous Cree family invites the reader to travel along the river to a special place on the shore, where we'll meet and visit with people for hours and days, talking about good things and bad, rejoicing in our good fortune and celebrating our achievements.  We'll speak to our ancestors, and build a fire and feast.  How can we protect these wonderful gathering places?

The Great Gathering Place introduces the reader to Indigenous concepts and teachings.  I enjoyed the sacred, colorful illustrations.

PGPowers

The Lost Board by Alice Feagan - ADVISABLE

The Lost Board by Alice Feagan. PICTURE BOOK. Viking (Penguin), JUNE 2026. $19. 9798217040827

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Generations of her family learned to ride the waves on that surfboard, but Lana loses it one day to an unlucky wave.  Instead of scorn from her family, she finds love and understanding and learns how to let go. Meanwhile, the surfboard is only beginning its new journey.

For being from Colorado, Feagan does a great job of evoking the islands through her story and illustrations. She creates a harmony between Lana finding forgiveness from her family and the journey and uses the old surfboard experiences. While great for any ocean edge library, I think landlocked kids will also enjoy.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Monkeypig by Huw Aaron - ADVISABLE

Monkeypig by Huw Aaron. PICTURE BOOK. Viking (Penguin), JUNE 2026. $19. 9798217039159

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Molly may be a pig, but she lives in the trees in the jungle doing all of the monkey things in all of the money ways. Then Norman the head monkey calls an important monkey gathering. Will Pig be exposed as a monkey imposter?

Aaron’s pig and monkeys are a fun nonsense book.  While there might be a “lesson” within, I only wanted to enjoy the silly pig and the monkeys that welcomed it in.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Goldfinches by Mary Oliver and Melissa Sweet - ADVISABLE

Goldfinches written by Mary Oliver, illustrated by Melissa Sweet. PICTURE BOOK. Viking (Penguin Random House), 2026. $19. 9780593692417

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SOME

Award-winning poet Mary Oliver’s beautiful poem Goldfinches is brought to life with the stunning mixed-media artwork of Melissa Sweet.

The cover caught my eye initially, because of that gorgeous pink color. I was pleased to see Mary Oliver’s work at the heart of this picture book. I think it’s a great way to help students learn to access poetry, by pairing it with illustrations. I loved the artwork - the illustrations are vibrant, but also mimic the format of a nature journal, which is perfect for the poem’s topic. I loved the poem too. Like all of Mary Oliver’s work, it’s simple, yet meaningful. I could see this being used at every level (elementary, middle, & high school) to teach poetry in a different way. However, I do think it’s a book that adults will like more than kids.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

 

Little Owl’s Opposites by Divya Srinivasan - ADVISABLE

Little Owl’s Opposites ittle Owl’s Opposites by Divya Srinivasan. BOARD BOOK. Viking (Penguin), JUNE 2026. $8. 9780593691168

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

As Little Owl flies through the forest looking for Raccoon, he sees many animals who are displaying different kinds of opposites.

I enjoyed the little story, but Srinivasan’s illustrations are so clear that she could have also chosen to only have the opposites on each page. I need some Little Owl merch, he is so cute! 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

I Will Not Walk to School by Naseem Hrab and Kelly Collier. - ADVISABLE

I Will Not Walk to School by Naseem Hrab and Kelly Collier. PICTURE BOOK. Kids Can Press, 2026. $20. 9781525314391

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Monster is not interested in walking to school today - even with the promise of pepperoni pineapple pizza pancake Breakfast Day.  Reluctantly he starts on his way, finding excuses and methods to avoid going any faster. 

Monster will appeal to any student who wants to sleep in rather than go to school today. He is very silly, a bit sarcastic, and Collier’s illustrations give him just the right atmosphere.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

A Feel Better Book for Little Sleepers by Holly Brochmann and Shirley Ng-Benitez - ADVISABLE

A Feel Better Book for Little Sleepers by Holly Brochmann, illustrated by Shirley Ng-Benitez. PICTURE BOOK. Magination Press, 2026. $19. 9781433848629

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

It's time for a young girl to go to bed.  Her Father asks her to grab a blanket, a stuffed toy, and then snuggle in tight for a bedtime story. The father soothes his child and talks about how day changes into night. He then tells her how sleep is so good for her, and that while she is sleeping, her body is growing.  He tells her many other things that her body does while she sleeps.  How does someone fall asleep?

A Feel Better Book For Little Sleepers is intended to teach kids about the importance of sleep, and presents simple, concrete strategies that support falling asleep, staying asleep, and feeling secure at bedtime.

PGPowers

Disco Dave written by Jody Jensen Shaffer and Yana Kozak - ADVISABLE

Disco Dave written by Jody Jensen Shaffer, illustrated by Yana Kozak. PICTURE BOOK. Magination Press, 2026. $19. 9781433848582

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SEVERAL

Dave the Walrus loves disco, but he cannot dance. It’s a disaster every time he tries! He even takes some dance lessons to no avail. He decides he is going to quit disco forever. However, when the disco club’s jockey unexpectedly quits, Dave steps up and spins some sweet tunes for his friends, making sure disco doesn’t die.

I thought this was a sweet story about trying new things and failing, but still being OK in the end. There is a helpful reader’s note at the end from a psychologist specializing in treating anxiety & OCD with discussion points on how to talk to kids who struggle with not getting things right the first time they try something. Overall, I thought it was a cute story with a positive message presented in a low-stakes way. I recommend it for elementary school libraries or for counselors who might work with kids who deal with these anxieties a lot.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Brave by Weshoyot Alvitre - OPTIONAL

Brave by Weshoyot Alvitre. PICTURE BOOK Kokila (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593531600 

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

APPEALS TO: SOME 

A young indigenous boy admires his father's braid and hopes someday his hair will grow like it. He sees the beautiful hair on the dancers at powwows and wants to be like them, too. But at school, the kids tease him and pull his braid. He's brave and stands up for himself. His dad went to residential schools, where he was forced to lose his cultural traditions. He's made an effort to retrieve them as an adult and wants his son to be brave in displaying his culture. 

A sweet story about holding onto your heritage and defending your culture. I liked the illustrations, with their ancestral memories and native regalia. The right Native American or indigenous child will relate. 

Lisa Librarian 

Flowers For Mama by Deborah Freedman - ADVISABLE

Flowers For Mama by Deborah Freedman. PICTURE BOOK. Viking (Penguin), 2026. $19. 9780593695494

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Four young kittens try to think up something special to give to Mama on her special day.  They realize that Mama loves flowers.  They couldn't find any flowers, so they decided to be creative and make flowers.  Oleander planted a seed in dirt and a can.  Tulip drew flowers with orange chalk.  Others found bits and scraps to make yellow sunflowers and pink tulips.  Blossom made up a song.  Will Mama like their gift?

Flowers for Mama encourages creativity, and is a heartwarming story of patience and love.

Freedman's illustrations are very charming.

PGPowers

The Great Escape by Deborah Marcero - ADVISABLE

The Great Escape by Deborah Marcero. PICTURE BOOK. Putnam (Penguin), 2026. $20. 9780593857953

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Evie believed in magic words and magic tricks,  but they had no effect on her three younger siblings who she wished would be quiet and leave her alone. Evie found a magic wand, said some magic words, and disappeared down through the ground, but her siblings followed.  They found themselves in a fantastical world blending the deep sea and outer space.  When her siblings are in peril, she helps them.  After they help a baby whale tangled in a net of constellations, they wonder how they will ever get home.

The Great Escape is an imaginative adventure touching on coping skills in a noisy family, and how peace can be found in chaos.  Marcero's illustrations are beautiful featuring digital illustrations with real photographs from the James Webb Space Telescope.  I liked how the book's orientation changed as the story progressed.

PGPowers

 

Goal! Awesome Soccer Stories and Fun Facts for Kids by Carlos Mojica - ADVISABLE

Goal! Awesome Soccer Stories and Fun Facts for Kids written by Carlos Mojica, 160 pages. NON-FICTION. becker&mayer!kids (The Quarto Group), 2026. $20.

Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: MANY

With over 100 player profiles, Goal! is a nonfiction young readers guide to soccer that has all you ever wanted to know about the global obsession with the “beautiful game.”

This is obviously going to be a popular book in your library, just because of the nature of the topic material. I liked the general overview of the game, the different positions, player profiles and the sports trivia. However, I could have been just as happy with a book that was half as long. As someone who isn’t a sports fan, I got bored reading about player stats, especially when not every profile had a photograph. For being one of the most popular sports in the world, you would think there would be at least one photo of each player featured! Regardless, I would recommend this for your school’s library, especially with the World Cup this year, this book will see some traction.

Kiera Beddes, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

 

Even Steven: A Book About Sharing by Carrie Finison and Daniel Wiseman - ADVISABLE

Even Steven:  A Book About Sharing by Carrie Finison, illustrated by Daniel Wiseman. PICTURE BOOK. G.P. Putnam's Sons (Penguin), 2026. $19. 9780593859001

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Steven loves to make everything even. Steven likes to share by splitting something like noodles in half. But sometimes that doesn't work, so he learned that on a slide kids need to take turns.  He's happy as long as it's fun, and fair, and still even.  But what happens when some things are fair but not even?

Finison has a humorous story about always trying to share and make things fair, and the life experiences that make fair impossible.  I enjoyed the semi graphic novel format and cute illustrations.

PGPowers

Hold by Randy Ribay and Zeke Pena - ADVISABLE

Hold by Randy Ribay, illustrated by Zeke Pena. PICTURE BOOK. Kokila  (Penguin), 2026. $19. 9780593856987

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

It's time to leave the house.  Daddy rushes around trying to get all the things for his toddler.  He asks the toddler to hold the water bottle. "Hold, please, "he says.  The toddler begins to say, "hold" to everything he wants.  Soon he can't hold everything and it all falls out of the toddler's arms.  But then the toddler realizes what the most important thing is to hold.

Ribay gives us  a humorous, relatable story with a heartwarming message about what is truly important to hold.  I liked the bold art style.

PGPowers

Rose by the Sea by Rebecca Rose Mooradian and Myo Yim - ADVISABLE

Rose by the Sea by Rebecca Rose Mooradian, illustrated by Myo Yim. PICTURE BOOK. Atheneum Books for Young Readers (Simon), 2026. $20. 9781665944137

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Dzovinar lives with her family in Armenia.  One day she and her sister are out doing chores picking herbs along the shore.  On the way home, they hide when they see soldiers destroying their village.  When the soldiers leave they come back to an empty house.  With their parents gone, they are forced to flee across the desert.  Will they find a new place where they can live safely?

Mooradian’s words and Yim’s pictures combine for a  beautifully illustrated story about one girls' heartache during the Armenian Genocide, and her hope and heart even amid unspeakable tragedy.

PGPowers

Marie's Magic Eggs by Sandra Neil Wallace and Evan Turk - ESSENTIAL

Marie's Magic Eggs - How Marie Procai Kept the Ukrainian Art of Pysanky Alive written by Sandra Neil Wallace, illustrated by Evan Turk. PICTURE BOOK. Astra Publishing House, 2026. $20. 9781662680694

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SEVERAL

The title may be slightly misleading as there is no literal magic involved, just lots of talent and heart, but Marie’s Magic Eggs details the true story of how one Ukrainian immigrant woman preserved the art of pysanky, intricately decorated eggs using beeswax and dye, for the whole world to appreciate.

I loved this informative, well-researched biography of Marie Procai’s life and artistry. I vaguely remember seeing a PBS feature on pysanky as a child, so it was a real treat to read the story of the history behind this art form. I also loved the illustrations because they felt like pysanky art on each page telling the story. I could see this being used in a history class unit on immigration, or in an art class as an example of folk art.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes 

Writing Toward Justice by Peggy Thomas and Tonya Engel - ADVISABLE

Writing Toward Justice:  The Life and Reporting of Alice A. Dunnigan by Peggy Thomas, illustrated by Tonya Engel. NON-FICTION, BIOGRAPHY PICTURE BOOK. Calkins Creek (Astra Books for Young Readers), 2026. $20. 9781662680892

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Alice Dunnigan knew all about injustice, but she wanted to tell stories of spirit.  When she was 13 years old, she wrote to a Black newspaper asking for a job -- and got it.  It was only the beginning.  She worked hard as a teacher, a cleaner, a typist, and a journalist.  She became the first Black woman in the Capitol Press Corp.  But what she really wanted was the ear of President Truman.  What did Alice do to meet the President?

Writing Toward Justice is an inspiring story about how one woman's truth, power, and grit earned the respect of President Harry S. Truman.  I liked learning about another black hero in the civil rights movement. 

PGPowers

Ghost Army by Sarah Glenn Marsh and Becca Stadtlander - ADVISABLE

Ghost Army: The Troop of Artists Who Helped Win WWII by Sarah Glenn Marsh and Becca Stadtlander. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Viking (Penguin), JUNE 2026. $19. 9780593691717

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

During WWII a small group of artists and musicians played a critical role throughout the war - convincing the enemy that they were real troops of hundreds or thousands of men backed by tanks and artillery. In truth their tanks were rubber and the thousands of troops were rumors and sound recordings!

It wasn’t until 1996 when the efforts and successes of The Ghost army, a troop of artists and sound technicians during WWII, were finally recognized and acknowledged. My grades don’t cover WWII, but any school that does should have this on the shelf.  You could also show this to a theater teacher or art teacher. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Cranky versus the Cat (I can Read Level 2) by Phuc Trana and Pete Oswald - ADVISABLE

Cranky versus the Cat (I can Read Level 2) by Phuc Trana and Pete Oswald. EARLY READER. Harper, 2026. $6(pb), $16 (hc). 9780063469082

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Someone has left a big mess at the playground and Cranky and his friends need to clean it up before they can finish their important job. Turns out a stray cat has taken over the area and each step of the job the cat does something to aggravate Cranky - including eating his lunch.  But every bad cat also has a sweet side ready to be encouraged. 

While the reading level seems a bit above a 2, the story is still a fun one for adult and child to read together - especially if you have a cat.  Or dog people can talk about what a stray dog might do differently from a  cat.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Kiki and the Can written by John Leguizamo, Liz Casal, and John Crash Matos - ADVISABLE

Kiki and the Can written by John Leguizamo, illustrated by Liz Casal, featuring graffiti artist John Crash Matos. PICTURE BOOK. Scholastic Inc., 2026. $20. 9781338785692

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SEVERAL

Kiki felt bad that he didn’t have any contributions when his diverse group of friends were sharing about their cultural heroes, so he asked his family about their Latin heritage. Kiki then participates in the citywide mural project, honoring all sorts of Latin heroes with his graffiti portraits.

I picked it up initially because the art was eye-catching, but there is a whole lot more to the text. I felt like this was more informative than the casual reader might enjoy. Still, I think it’s important for Latino representation to have this picture book as a starting place. Kids can then do research on any one of the names mentioned in the book to see what Latin/Latino/Latinx peoples have contributed to art, science, food, & technology over the centuries. I do question why Kiki was allowed to leave his graffiti art everywhere, when not everyone recognizes it as a legitimate art form, but that may be just one of those things you have to suspend your disbelief in order to enjoy this story. 

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes 

Taking Flight by Kashmira Sheth and Nicolo Carozzi. - ADVISABLE

Taking Flight by Kashmira Sheth, illustrated by Nicolo Carozzi. PICTURE BOOK Dial (Penguin), 2026. $19. 9798218003884 

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

A story of several children, all moving from one place to another, some displaced by war, they might be refugees but they are all worn-out and ready for rest. 

Told in second person, you are the child, experiencing the journey, the new city, the strange school and making friends. Usually I don't like that, but it worked with this, putting the reader in the shoes of the immigrant child. I loved that the final illustration is 3 pairs of children's shoes. The children are from different cultures, some specific and some not. 

Lisa Librarian 

Buttfish by Pauline Pinson and Magali Le Huche - ADVISABLE

Buttfish by Pauline Pinson and Magali Le Huche. PICTURE BOOK. Kids Can Press, 2026. $20. 9781525314124

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Buttfish doesn’t like being constantly told his face looks like a butt. Looking for new friends, he heads to the depths of the ocean where he meets a new friend, Steve, who looks like a cheese.  Maybe together the pair can be more than their looks.

Buttfish doesn’t look like a human-type butt, so don’t worry that you might offend through the illustrations - but if you read this aloud, you have to be comfortable with saying “butt” a lot. Pinson has really given us a story about seeing yourself differently from the roles others will try to force us into - and about being a good friend.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Bear Hair by Jeff Mack - SEVERAL

 

Bear Hair by Jeff Mack. PICTURE BOOK. Henry Holt (Macmillan), JULY 2026. $19. 9781250409676

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Bear/bare Hair/hare - Mack uses basically four words and cute illustrations to give us a full story of two friends. A fun way to teach homophones and the interplay between word and illustration in a picture book. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Go Bananas! by A.B. Peele and Lala Watkins - ADVISABLE

Go Bananas! by A.B. Peele, illustrated by Lala Watkins. PICTURE BOOK. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (Simon & Schuster), 2026. $20. 9781665953566

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: MANY

Join a cast of banana characters as they take a classic chant and turn it into an infectiously fun read-a-loud, helping turn sad days and frowns upside down.

At first, I thought the author's name was a pun, and I'm still not sure it isn't. Regardless, I got a kick out of this picture book, even though when I read it aloud, it did get a little repetitive. But that is part of the fun, I suspect, for a read-a-loud book. You want the kids to know how to join along. I could see this being very popular for the K-3 crowd, and you may be able to stretch it to older crowds if you got a teacher who really got into it, but I definitely recommend it for lower elementary students. 

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Forty the Fortune Teller by Drew Daywalt and Kevin Cornell. - ESSENTIAL

Forty the Fortune Teller by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Kevin Cornell. PICTURE BOOK Philomel (Penguin), 2026. $19. 9780593691465 

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

Forty is one of those paper fortune tellers where you spell out a color and then pick a number and get your fortune. Unfortunately, Forty was dropped on the playground before ever getting to deliver even one fortune. Then, she meets a chip and they find a bolt that needs to be replaced in the playground slide - but all sorts of things stand in their way, the first one being a squirrel. When Forty tells his fortune, he is swept away by it. Maybe she's more powerful than she thinks! 

Drew Daywalt is such a great storyteller, and this story is funny and clever. I love Cornell's illustrations. I'm so excited to recommend this to the kids who love the "Crayons Quit" books. This would be so fun to read just before teaching a class on how to make the Fortune Tellers (instructions provided). 

Lisa Librarian  

Now You Know Your ABCs (or do you..?) by Caspar Salmon and Matt Hunt - ADVISABLE

Now You Know Your ABCs (or do you..?) by Caspar Salmon and Matt Hunt. PICTURE BOOK. Nosy Crow, 2026. $19. 9798887772240

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

As you innocently read your ABC book, on D you are confronted by a Dangerous Wolf!  Can you make it through the rest of the alphabet without getting eaten?

I like how Salmon makes the wolf there, lurking, but not actively being dangerous - just upping the scare factor.  Parts are silly (being stuck in France, a purple-haired witch saving the day) and it will be fun to read and amaze over together.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

This Was Not the Plan by Jane Chapman - ADVISABLE

This Was Not the Plan by Jane Chapman. Tiger Tales, 2026. $19. 9781664300781

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Spike, a bear, and Roscoe, a rabbit, are ready to head off on their camping trip. Spike feels each setback greatly, while Roscoe always finds another way to see everything with a positive attitude. Together the two find a happy balance to enjoy their adventure. 

I loved the misadventures and Roscoe’s redirects. Chapman has illustrated many beloved books and she’s done a great job with her own title. While a little longer (not much), the story hangs very well together, keeping up the reader’s interest along the way. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Where do Stories Live? by Meenal Patel - OPTIONAL

Where do Stories Live? by Meenal Patel. PICTURE BOOK. Kokila (Penguin Random House), 2026. $19. 9798217003198

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: FEW

Join two sisters, Avni & Isha, as they find different stories to add to a journal. They ask each other where do stories live? In the nature around us? In the people in our homes? Or in our books, pictures, and dreams? Maybe stories exist in all of these places.

A quiet book for quiet reflective children, this picture book is definitely one that adults are going to like more than kids. The muted color palette also doesn’t draw the reader in, but it does fit the contemplative tone of the story, so there are trade-offs. I liked the Indian elements in the background of the story, they were fun to pick out on each page.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes 

The Storm Cloud by Frances Stickley and Emily Hamilton - ADVISABLE

The Storm Cloud by Frances Stickley and Emily Hamilton. PICTURE BOOK. Post Wave, 2026. $19. 9798895090480

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Bear is having a bad day. His friends try to cheer him up, but he wants to be alone - mostly because he is afraid his bad day will ruin their day too. Squirrel knows that something isn’t right, and he takes the time to show Bear that he is there to support him, and that not everything about a rain cloud is bad. 

Stickley handles interacting with a friend who is sad or depressed in a deft way that will teach many people, including adults, that there are better ways to help and support. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Because of a Shoe by Julie Fogliano and Marla Frazee - ADVISABLE

Because of a Shoe by Julie Fogliano and Marla Frazee. PICTURE BOOK Knopf (Random House), 2026. $20. 9780593707401

BUYING ADVISORY:  EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

A small child refuses to put on their shoes, is determined to do their whole life from the floor and never wear shoes, ever. Their mother is frustrated and angry and threatens to throw the favorite shoes into the dump, but . . . 

This is a delightful story about how a child's behavior and a parent's response don't change their loving relationship. Mara Frazee's illustrations are on point - I love how the bright colors change to grays during the worst moments and then back to color again. A delightful bedtime story or a great wind-down after time out or an argument. The characters are white 

Lisa Librarian 

Neville’s Great Escape by Sean E. Avery - ADVISABLE

Neville’s Great Escape by Sean E. Avery. PICTURE BOOK. Walker Books, 2026. $19. 9781761602542

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

When Neville gets swallowed by the giant whale, he could sit back and wait to be eaten.  Neville, however, has other plans - Escape!

A companion to Frank’s Red Hat. Avery gives us another penguin adventure - this time reminding us to not give up and to look at things a different way.  Avery adds a bit more snark to Neville's character and to his seal sidekick (however unwilling), which I enjoyed. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Christian's Soccer Superpowers written by Christian Pulisic and Marta Kissi - ADVISABLE

Christian's Soccer Superpowers written by Christian Pulisic, illustrated by Marta Kissi. PICTURE BOOK. Penguin Young Readers Group (Penguin Random House), 2026. $19. 9798217041893

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: SEVERAL

Christian Pulisic is one of the standout stars on the U.S. men’s national soccer team, but before he became a soccer star, he was just a little kid scared to join his first soccer team. His family helps him discover that his soccer superpower doesn’t lie in how big or strong he is, but rather in his focus, determination, and confidence that he brings to the field.

The only reason I know who Christian Pulisic is because I have several soccer diehards in my circle, so I picked this up for them. I don’t know what I was expecting, but I was sort of charmed by this soccer story. I think it’s hard for people who are outstanding in their fields to write a story for the average person, but Christian did a good job! I think your soccer aficionados are going to love this story, and (dare I say it) even your non-sporty types will also like it.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

 

A Flea for Justice by Valerie Bolling and Temika Grooms - ADVISABLE

A Flea for Justice: Marian Wright Edelman Stands Up for Change by Valerie Bolling, illustrated by Temika Grooms. BIOGRAPHY, PICTURE BOOK Charlesbridge/Imagine, 2025. $18. 9781623545826 

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

APPEALS TO: SOME 

Marian was only 4 years old when she first experienced a Jim Crow law. She didn't understand why she couldn't drink from any fountain. Her role model, Sojourner Truth had compared herself to a flea and said she'd make a man keep scratching, so Marian decided she would be a flea, too. She changed the signs on fountains every chance she got. She wanted to stop Racial injustice. As she got older she participated in the restaurant sit-ins, became a lawyer in Mississippi and marched with Dr. Martin Luther King. She continued being a Flea for justice throughout her life. 

Marvelous illustrations with quotes incorporated. I loved this story, I had no idea she started the Children's Defense Fund, among other things. A nice addition to my picture book biographies. Marian was black. 

Lisa Librarian

Just For Today by Charlotte Agell and Ana Ramirez Gonzalez - OPTIONAL

Just For Today by Charlotte Agell and Ana Ramirez Gonzalez. PICTURE BOOK. Scholastic Press, JULY 2026. $20. 9781546181323

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Elba, a hippopotamus, has been worrying a lot and not sleeping well, so her friend, Norris, a crocodile, tries to help her have a more relaxing day.  Things don’t quite go as planned, however, and Elba is the one helping Norris to find a peaceful place. 

A sweet book that might help with managing anxiety a little. Though, how can a hippo not swim? The illustrations are lovely and add to the calm feeling Agell is trying to convey.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

When Auggie Learned to Play Chess by Meredith Rusu and Stephen Costanza - ESSENTIAL

When Auggie Learned to Play Chess by Meredith Rusu, illustrated by Stephen Costanza. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books (Penguin Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593710814

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: MANY

Auggie and his father have moved away from the seaside to the cornfields, and everything is awful. He has no one to play with at recess or to sit next to at lunch. One day, he discovers his grandfather’s old chess set and his father begins to teach him how to play. As he learns the game, he also learns other lessons about his new life, gaining confidence & skills to make the most of this new situation.

I adored this picture book about poor lonely Auggie and his father teaching him chess. The illustrations were so fun, especially when he got so wrapped up in chess that he started imagining his classmates as different game pieces. This is a sweet story of a father and son, and a wonderful coming-of-age as Auggie adjusts to life in a new place.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Rumplestiltskin retold by Mac Barnett and Carson Ellis - OPTIONAL

Rumplestiltskin retold by Mac Barnett and Carson Ellis. PICTURE BOOK. Orchard (Scholastic), 2026. $20. 9781338673852

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Barnett adds a bit of a modern feel to the classic tale and shortens it a bit, but refrains from completely modernizing it. He does change the detail of how Rumplestilskin’s name is discovered, perhaps to give the Queen character some power? I didn’t feel as if the power of the story changed - not enough for me to buy another copy of the story, unless I need a new one for some reason.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Gigantic by Rob Biddulph - ESSENTIAL

 

Gigantic by Rob Biddulph. PICTURE BOOK. Doubleday (Random House), 2026. $19. 9780593518960

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

Gigantic may yet be a tiny whale, but when his big brother, Titan, is in trouble, Gigantic pulls out all the stops, and his friends, to save him.

Biddulph’s rhyming text gives the story a rhythm evocative of the sea and adds an urgency to Titan’s danger. A great reminder to “biggers” that those smaller in stature are as important. I love the color palette of the illustrations so much.

Lovely endpapers, too. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

My Abuela is a Bruja by Mayra Cuevas and Lorena Alvarez Gomez - ADVISABLE

My Abuela is a Bruja by Mayra Cuevas, illustrated by Lorena Alvarez Gomez. PICTURE BOOK Knopf (Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593480632 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

The girl's abuela is an island bruja, a garden bruja, a dancing bruja, a kitchen bruja, and a flan bruja. There is magic in everything she does. 

This is one of those picture books where the illustrations tell so much more than the text alone. Lots of Spanish words mixed in; includes a glossary, and there is also an edition in Spanish. The illustrations are wonderful - I especially loved the illustration of the girl interacting with her ancestors, because they are all a part of her own magic. Back matter includes an author's note as well as recipes for Flan and Sofrito. A wonderful picture book. The characters are Puerto Rican 

Lisa Librarian 

Underwearwolf by Gideon Sterer and Charles Santoso - ADVISABLE

The Underwearwolf by Gideon Sterer and Charles Santoso. PICTURE BOOK. Simon and Schuster, 2026. $20. 9781665955584

Content: PG (“butt naked” mentioned, main character is naked at one point, but no private parts are shown)

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Against all advice, a little slips on the underwear he was gifted during a full moon and becomes a werewolf, running wildly through his town all night long.

The idea that your underwear can turn you into a monster is hilarious and I loved watching his antics throughout the night. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Under One Roof by Miranda Paul & Baptiste Paul and Christopher Silas Neal - OPTIONAL

Under One Roof by Miranda Paul & Baptiste Paul, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal. PICTURE BOOK.  Clarion Books (Harper), 2026. $16. 9780358576594

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Bedtime is a time that is the same and yet very different for everyone.  Under One Roof represents a diverse group of children and their families as they get ready for bed.  Some are missing a loved one because they have passed away or are serving their country far away.  Others have lost their homes to wars or natural disasters.  Home truly is where your family is!

With rhyming text and soft, muted illustrations,  Under One Roof would be good for a bedtime story.  I don't think it is the type of book that would hold the attention of a class for a read aloud. 

Many different ethnicities and different types of families are represented.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian

Piet Finds a Home by Carina Wohlleben and Rachel Qiuqi - ADVISABLE

Piet Finds a Home by Carina Wohlleben, illustrated by Rachel Qiuqi. PICTURE BOOK. Greystone Kids, 2026. $25. 9781778400292

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Piet the squirrel sees Peter the forester and hops over to tell him that his home in the old pine tree is really prickly.  Peter tells Piet that he will find him a new home.  Peter suggests the enormous beach tree at the edge of the yard.  Piet discovers many wonderful and surprising things about the tree as he lives in it through the seasons. He feels his tree is more than a home. 

Piet Finds a Home is a charming story with educational facts about nature.  I liked the sidebars detailing even more facts about trees.  Qiuqi's illustrations are adorable.

PGPowers

Love ABC by Jannie Ho - OPTIONAL

Love ABC by Jannie Ho. BOARD BOOK Candlewick, 2025. $8 9781536246698 

BUYING ADVISORY: PRE-K - OPTIONAL 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

A child's alphabet book centered around love, with words like gift, invitation, poem, and friend. There are colorful, simple and large illustrations that pair well with the letter and word. The pictures are engaging and would appeal to young children. 

Michelle in the Middle