My Subway Runs by James Gladstone and Pierre Pratt - ADVISABLE

My Subway Runs by James Gladstone and Pierre Pratt. PICTURE BOOK. Groundwood Books, 2026. $20. 9781773067544

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

A boy journeys on a subway into the city so his mom can look for a job. Told from a child's perspective, we experience everything he does, from descending to the platform, feeling the wind as the subway rushes by, even noticing a homeless man that the adults pretend not to notice. The colorful illustrations move the story along, immersing us in the experience as the boy holds his mother's hand, safe, but with a child's curiosity in the world around him.

I love this book for Pratt's charming illustrations and the immersive experience that many children may not have if they don't live in a big city. The celebration of public transit calls to mind "Last Stop on Market Street" in using the child's perspective to experience the world around us and a commonplace ride to many adults becomes a fascinating journey. The boy and his mother present white, but as a subway in a big city, many ethnicities are present.

Heather Robinson 

Fly Away Home by Betty Quan and Akin Duzakin - ESSENTIAL

Fly Away Home by Betty Quan and Akin Duzakin. PICTURE BOOK. Groundwood Books, 2026. $20. 9781773069623

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

Told through nursery-rhyme-esque language, Little Bird and her family migrate to find a new nest. Other birds, turtles, and other animals are also migrating to find safety as a girl and her family also search for a new home. While the animals are the main focus of the pages, we see people in the background, fleeing their homes, crowded into small boats, rushing through a burned-out village, looking for a safe new place. It ends on a hopeful note, both for the birds and the little girl. 

With the world in upheaval and millions of people displaced every year, this book provides an entry point for those conversations with young children. The author uses collective nouns like a "charm of goldfinches", a "flamboyance of flamingoes" and a "gift of robins" which adds to the whimsical quality of the action in the foreground. Each page shows a different species and their journey, while there is always help along the way. The illustrations are beautiful and enhance the lyrical quality of the verses. The focus of the book is on the animals and the ethnicity of the people is ambiguous, although they appear pale-skinned. 

Heather Robinson 

From the Fields to the Fight by Angela Quezada Padron and Sol Salinas - ADVISABLE

From the Fields to the Fight: How Jessica Govea Thorbourne Organized for Justice by Angela Quezada Padron and Sol Salinas. BIOGRAPHY PICTURE BOOK. Atheneum Books for Young Readers (SImon), 2026. $20. 9781665946704

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Starting as a young child, Jessica Govea Thorbourne worked alongside her family as a migrant farm worker. She saw how unfair conditions were. There were no bathrooms, they worked long hours and also ingested pesticides that were meant to kill bugs but were harmful to humans. Jessica met Cesar Chavez, an activist for farm workers. Jessica's parents decided to join him in fighting for justice for migrant workers. Jessica learned how to help the migrant's cause and dedicated her life to it. Can one girl make a difference?

Padron gives us the compelling story about one girl's resilience. Jessica saw something in the world that she wanted to change and fought to change it. With just a few sentences per page and vibrant and emotional illustrations by Salinas, From the Fields to the Fight would make a great read aloud.

Jessica and her family are Hispanic.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian 

A River Running Through You by Amy-Jane Beer and Elin Manon - OPTIONAL

A River Running Through You by Amy-Jane Beer and Elin Manon. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Magic Cat Publishing, 2026. $19. 9781917366915

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Have you ever wondered where water comes from or where it might be going? This book takes readers on a journey that is part science and part reflection, following water as it moves from oceans to rivers, clouds to rain, and through its ever changing cycle.

Manon's illustrations are beautiful and complement Beer's text. The prose encouraged me to think more deeply about water and its importance as one of Earth's most valuable resources. This is a thoughtful, contemplative book that invites reflection and discussion, while also conveying a clear environmental message.

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

Indigo Irvine by Rhiannon Archard - OPTIONAL

Indigo Irvine by Rhiannon Archard. PICTURE BOOK. Tate Publishing, 2025. $17. 9781849769617

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Indigo Irvine loves her artistic mum. Through her paintings, Indigo's mum brings light, color, and excitement into their lives. But not every day is easy. Some days there is not enough food to eat, the heat is turned off, or her mum cannot find the energy to get out of bed. Even during these difficult times, Indigo and her mum face challenges together as a team, relying on love, resilience, and laughter to carry them through. 

I loved Archard's bright, bold, and engaging illustrations, which bring warmth and energy to the story. However, I struggled with some of the messages presented in the book. The story seems to normalize situations that are concerning, such as the family having their utilities shut off and Indigo being left to care for herself when her mother is unable to get out of bed for days. While the book highlights the love between mother and daughter and their resilience in difficult circumstances, I felt it glossed over the seriousness of the challenges Indigo faces.

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian https://www.kingsenglish.com/item/CVbOt1jz_0sKO_Yc9Ikk2Q

The Tour at School! by Katie Clapham and Nadia Shireen - ADVISABLE

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

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Being the tour guide for a new student at school is a very important job. You have to be excited and show them everything around the school. It's important to have an emergency meet up place in case you get separated. It's even more important to remember what it feels like to be new and not know anyone or anything. Then maybe at the end of the tour, you can stop being a tour guide and just be friends.

This is a fun book to remember what it is like to be the new kid in school and to build empathy. Shireen's illustrations are bright and playful and illustrate the characters with a variety of skin tones and hair colors.

Rachel, Elementary School librarian 

Piet Finds a Home by Carina Wohlleben, Peter Wohlleben and Rachel Qiuqi - OPTIONAL

Piet Finds a Home by Carina Wohlleben, Peter Wohlleben and Rachel Qiuqi. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Greystone Kids, 2026. $20. 9781778400292

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Piet is a squirrel looking for a new place to sleep. Peter, his human neighbor, helps him find a nice beech tree and teaches him all about the tree. Piet learns new things about the tree through summer, fall, winter, and then spring. Piet learns that trees sleep, sweat, drink water, and get hungry just like he does.

The Wohllebens mix of fiction and nonfiction with tree facts on most pages. I liked learning more about trees, and I would have liked if there was a reference for where to learn more. It would be a good science teaching tool for teachers.

Peter is white.

Rachel, elementary school librarian 

Home Away from Home by Nazneen Akbari and Rashin Kheiriyeh - ADVISABLE

Home Away from Home by Nazneen Akbari and Rashin Kheiriyeh. PICTURE BOOK. Barefoot Books, 2026. $18. 9798888598962

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Nuha isn't sure she wants to spend the summer with her grandmother (Jadda) in Oman, but Mama assures her it will be a home away from home. When Nuha forgets her doll, she feels even worse. Oman is nothing like home. When Jadda suggests they go to the souk (market) to find a new doll, Nuha still isn't sure. Jadda helps Nuha discover the wonderful sights, smells, and tastes of the souk, and as she connects with her grandmother, her surroundings start to feel more like home.

This is a sweet story about connecting with family and culture. I loved the illustrations and descriptions of Oman. This book would make a great addition to any library.

Nuha and her family are from Oman.

Rachel, elementary school librarian 

Nisha Knows Best by Maryann Jacob Macias and Maithili Joshi - OPTIONAL

Nisha Knows Best by Maryann Jacob Macias and Maithili Joshi. PICTURE BOOK. Dial Books for Young Readers (Penguin), 2026. $20. 9781984815552

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Nisha has a big family, and they love to give hugs. Nisha loves her ammamma and appappa, but when they arrived from India after a long absence, she suddenly felt very shy. It was just too scary to hug them. Nisha's mom assured her that there are lots of ways to show love. So instead, Nisha shares one of her paintings with them.

A sweet story about a little girl figuring out how she best likes to show love. She learns that there are many ways to show love, and she can do what feels best for her. The illustrations are fun, bright, and vibrant.

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

Sparkles for Sunny by Sylvia Chen and Thai My Phuong - ADVISABLE

Sparkles for Sunny: A Lunar New Year Story by Sylvia Chen and Thai My Phuong. PICTURE BOOK. Flamingo Books (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593694626

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

With Lunar New Year right around the corner, Sunny would like nothing more than a new qipao to wear to the parade that is all her own. But that is not the Lao family way. The Lao family never wastes anything. So once again, Sunny is stuck wearing her sister's hand-me-downs. Can Sunny find a way to make her outfit all her own and still honor her family?

A sweet story about the youngest sister of three who would like nothing more than to stand out. I really loved the illustrations.

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

Brave New Ballet by Robyn McGrath and Alexander Mostov - OPTIONAL

Brave New Ballet: The Story of the Les Ballets Trockadero De Monte Carlo by Robyn McGrath and Alexander Mostov. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Penguin Workshop, 2026. $19. 9798217049370

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo was an all-male ballet company founded in New York City in the 1970s by a group of dancers who wanted the freedom to perform on their own terms. They worked tirelessly to perfect their technique while also bringing humor and satire to their choreography. Although they were not taken seriously at first, their talent, dedication, and artistry eventually won over audiences around the world.

This was an interesting look at a piece of dance history I was previously unfamiliar with, and I enjoyed learning about the company's unique contributions to the world of ballet. I also enjoyed the illustrations.

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

I Got You: A Brother's Promise by Derrick Barnes and Shamar Knight-Justice - ADVISABLE

I Got You: A Brother's Promise by Derrick Barnes and Shamar Knight-Justice. PICTURE BOOK. Nancy Paulsen Books (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593111451

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Rasheed thinks he has the best big brother in the world. Anthony teaches him about both the big things and the little things in life—how to ride a bike, make mud pies, and soar through the air from the swings. He comforts Rasheed during storms and is always there when he needs him. But one day, Rasheed is heartbroken when Anthony goes bike riding with his friends and leaves him behind. Later, Anthony reassures Rasheed that even as he grows older and spends more time with friends, he will always be his big brother and will always be there for him.

A sweet story about the love and bond between brothers. Anthony patiently teaches, encourages, and cares for Rasheed, showing him what it means to be a loving big brother. When the family learns that a new baby brother is on the way, Rasheed realizes he is ready to follow Anthony's example and become a caring big brother himself. A celebration of family relationships. I also liked the collage style illustrations.

Anthony and Rasheed are Black

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

The Littlest Elephant by Katherine Applegate and Lita Judge - ESSENTIAL

The Littlest Elephant: A One and Only Ruby Story by Katherine Applegate and Lita Judge. PICTURE BOOK. Storytide (Harper), 2026. $16. 9780063357785

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Ruby, a young elephant from the The One and Only Ivan is worried as her Tusk Day approaches. Tusk Day is a celebration of when an elephant starts to grow trunks. It is a rite of passage to adulthood. Part of Tusk Day is thinking about good and bad memories in your life. Thinking of these memories makes Ruby appreciate all that she has. Will Ruby get through her Tusk Day?

The Littlest Elephant is a beautiful rendition of the chapter book "The One and Only Ruby". The plot is very sweet with an important theme for children. My favorite quote is "the darkness helps us love the light." The One and Only Ivan series is very popular in my library. With this book, younger students can be introduced to this series earlier. Would make a great read aloud!

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian 

More Than a Tree by Sarah Kurpiel - ADVISABLE

More Than a Tree by Sarah Kurpiel. PICTURE BOOK. Rocky Pond Books (Penguin), 2026. $19. 9780593697689

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A little girl has a beloved tree in her backyard that has watched over her throughout her childhood. It has been the backdrop to countless memories, but when the tree begins to creak, groan, and lose branches, her parents explain that it will need to be cut down. Saddened by the loss, she searches for a way to honor the tree and eventually decides to plant a sapling in its place that she can watch over it as it grows.

This gentle story explores family, coping with loss, and understanding the circle of life. I enjoyed the book’s message and the illustrations.

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

The Biker Girls by Shehzil Malik - OPTIONAL

The Biker Girls by Shehzil Malik. PICTURE BOOK. Nancy Paulsen Books (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593324912

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Every week, Sophie and Maya meet at the park to ride their bikes. One day, they invite their new neighbor, Zoey, to join them. Although Zoey has never ridden a bike before, she is eager to learn. With Sophie and Maya’s encouragement and help, she quickly gains confidence, and the three friends spend hours riding together in the park. Once they feel ready for a bigger adventure, they take a ride through the city. The girls notice the streets are crowded and that many people stare at them, unaccustomed to seeing girls riding bikes. Determined to change that, they start a bike club so more girls from their school can experience the joy and freedom of cycling.

I was a little confused by the book’s suggestion that girls do not usually ride bikes, as the story does not provide much geographical or cultural context until the author’s note at the end. The illustrations are bright, bold, and energetic, with a comic book–inspired style. I think the characters are from Pakistan

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

Gus Upstairs by Carey Sookocheff - ADVISABLE

Gus Upstairs by Carey Sookocheff. PICTURE BOOK. Owlkids Books, 2026. $19. 9781771476867

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The challenges of living in close quarters and the importance of communication, compromise, and understanding are explored in this book. Ms. Wilson treasures the quiet she needs to practice her piano, while upstairs, the Lam family's new dog struggles with being left alone and reacts to the music by barking. Can the neighbors work together to find a solution that meets everyone's needs?

The story offers a gentle lesson in empathy, problem-solving, and being considerate of others. I enjoyed the analogous colored illustrations.

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

Rivka's Presents by Laurie Wallmark and Adelina Lirius - ADVISABLE

Rivka's Presents by Laurie Wallmark and Adelina Lirius. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Studio, 2023. $19. 9780593482070

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Rivka, a young immigrant girl in 1918 New York City, can't wait to go to school. But when her father falls ill, her mother has to work, and Rivka has to stay home to watch her younger sister. Undeterred, she trades work for reading lessons with the grocer, and math lessons with the tailor. She also helps her neighbor study for her citizenship test so that she can learn history.

A beautifully illustrated, read aloud book that teaches about the thirst for knowledge and the kindness of others to help a young girl be educated. There is a glossary at the back of English and Yiddish words. The family is Jewish.

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

Pizzasaurus by Tammi Sauer and Kyle Beckett - ADVISABLE

Pizzasaurus by Tammi Sauer and Kyle Beckett. PICTURE BOOK. Doubleday Books for Young Readers (Random House), 2026. $19. 9780593518083

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Of course you have heard of Tyrannosaurus Rex, Stegosaurus and Triceratops but have you heard of Pizzasaurus? He is known for loving pizza! He eats it, makes it and decorates with it. Other dinosaurs wish they they could be as popular as Pizzasaurus. Can he win them over by sharing his pizza?

Pizzasaurus has a very eye-catching cover that I think will encourage students to check it out. The plot is not very exciting but is filled with silly pizza and dinosaur jokes. The illustrations are bright with many details. They also have speech bubbles on some pages. Text is just a few sentences per page. Would make a great read aloud!

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian 

Time to Leave Laverne! by Lana Button and Yang Ling Kang - ADVISABLE

Time to Leave Laverne! by Lana Button and Yang Ling Kang. PICTURE BOOK. Owlkids Books, 2026. $23. 9781771476577

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Laverne has big emotions. She loves going to the library, the park, and friends' houses, but when it is time to leave, a thunderstorm seems to roll in, and Laverne struggles to control her feelings. Her parents try to give her tools to help her cope, but it is not until she begins playing pretend with her beloved stuffies that she learns how to use those strategies for herself. Through practice and patience, Laverne gradually learns to prepare for the emotional storms that arise throughout her day. It is not easy, but little by little, she is learning how to weather them.

Button teaches children practical tools for managing emotions that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Through Laverne's experiences, young readers learn strategies for recognizing big feelings and working through them in healthy ways.

Laverne is white.

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

Bela and Lily by Natasha Khan Kazi - OPTIONAL

Bela and Lily by Natasha Khan Kazi. PICTURE BOOK Kokila, 2025. $19. 9780593858912

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

After arriving in the United States from Bangladesh, Bela meets Lily at the park. Unlike the other children, Lily does not laugh when Bela struggles to find the right words in English. Together they play, laugh, and discover ways to communicate beyond language. But when an argument threatens their friendship, Bela wonders if she can find a way to make things right.

Kazi explores friendship, empathy, and the challenges of navigating a new culture and language.

Bela is Bengali and Lily is white

A. Snow, Librarian 

Sheep Shape by Adele Tariel and Iksana Bula - ADVISABLE

Sheep Shape by Adele Tariel and Iksana Bula. PICTURE BOOK. Magination Press, 2026. $19. 9781433848704

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Shearing day is tomorrow. Chip does not like to have his soft wool sheared, so he plans an escape. Many of the other sheep tell him it is a bad idea because there are wolves in the forest. Chip runs anyway. He finds a safe place to sleep and beds down. Day by day, Chip’s wool grows and he is happy and content….until.

While the story is simplistic and could have rhymed, the author fashioned a story that allows parents to ask questions about Chip’s decisions. Bula created bright, fun illustrations. At the end of the book, Bonnie Zucker, PsyD, counsels parents on how to have discussions about the book with children.

MOMMACC 

Some Days I'm the Wind by Rebecca Garden Levington and Dinara Mirtalipova - ESSENTIAL

Some Days I'm the Wind by Rebecca Garden Levington and Dinara Mirtalipova. PICTURE BOOK. Barefoot Books, 2025. $18. 9798888596623

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Some days a girl is like the wind when it’s blustery and then some days she is like the wind when it is breezy. Some days the girl is like the sun, the sea, the clouds, the rain, a tree, the snow, etc. in all its variety. It’s important to explore our emotions and know it is fine to share those feelings with others.

What a fantastic way, through metaphor, rhythm, and design to help children understand how they are feeling. The rhythm and alliterations make this a delicious read for all ages. Mirtalipova aptly catches the emotions felt by the little girl. Adorable! There is a QR code for a read along on the back cover.

The girl in the story appears Polynesian.

MOMMAC 

Brave New Ballet by Robyn McGrath and Alexander Mostov - OPTIONAL

Brave New Ballet: The Story of the Les Ballets Trockadero De Monte Carlo by Robyn McGrath and Alexander Mostov. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Penguin Workshop, 2026. $19. 9798217049370

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo was an all-male ballet company founded in New York City in the 1970s by a group of dancers who wanted the freedom to perform on their own terms. They worked tirelessly to perfect their technique while also bringing humor and satire to their choreography. Although they were not taken seriously at first, their talent, dedication, and artistry eventually won over audiences around the world.

This was an interesting look at a piece of dance history I was previously unfamiliar with, and I enjoyed learning about the company's unique contributions to the world of ballet. I also enjoyed the illustrations.

Reviewer: A. Snow, Librarian 

The Sweater by Larissa Theule and Teagan White - ADVISABLE

The Sweater: A Story of Community by Larissa Theule and Teagan White. PICTURE BOOK. Viking (Penguin), 2026. $19. 9780593528945

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

In autumn, Holly the raccoon set of on a hike. She noticed a little bird that looked lost. She noticed that he found a home in a hole in a tree. She felt the little bird needed some care. Holly went around the forest asking all the neighbors to contribute to a welcome gift for the new bird. The little bird rejoiced in the gifts. Then, winter set in and all the animals had to stay inside by themselves. What would bring them comfort?

Theule created a beautiful story of care and community through forest animals. The artful illustrations designed by White only add to the telling. While a simple story, it was told sweetly.

MOMMAC 

Horned Toad Has a Super Power by Jill Esbaum and Bob Shea - OPTIONAL

Horned Toad Has a Super Power by Jill Esbaum and Bob Shea. PICTURE BOOK. G P Putnam's Sons (Penguin), 2026. $19. 9780593700020

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Down in Texas, a horned toad meets an owlet. Horned toad explains how people have gotten his name wrong. He is not a toad, he is a lizard. He goes on to explain how he has a super power. He describes how he is cold blooded like a snake, he has horns that make him look scary, and he can camouflage himself by blending in. But none of those are his superpower.

While the illustrations entice, the story line bores. This book is more like a fact book trying to be a storybook. It is made up mostly of dialogue that teaches.

MOMMAC

Chick and T by Jennifer Shand and Esther Hernando - ADVISABLE

Chick and T by Jennifer Shand and Esther Hernando. PICTURE BOOK.Flowerpot Press, 2026. $17. 9781486732029

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

T-rex hatched into a world void of other Dinosaurs. He felt so lonely living all by himself. In his studies, T found out that chickens were his nearest relatives. Soon a family of chickens adopted him. T was happy to have a family, but not all in the chicken family were happy to have him. Chick, one of his siblings, didn’t like that he broke everything he came in contact with.

This playfully illustrated book about belonging and friendship will delight little ones. Hernando created an adorable T-rex. The writing is fairly terse, but the delightful illustrations make up for it.

MOMMAC https://www.kingsenglish.com/item/FBFG88P5iisVm1Pd_HhFHw

Cowboys at the Ballet by Claire Wrenn Bobrow and Ilaria Urbinati - ADVISABLE

Cowboys at the Ballet: The Story of Choreographer Agnes de Mille by Claire Wrenn Bobrow and Ilaria Urbinati. BIOGRAPHY PICTURE BOOK. Atheneum Books for Young Readers (Simon), 2026. $20 9781665957878

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Agnes de Mille grew up in Hollywood. Her uncle was Cecil B. de Mille. Agnes loved ballet as an art form. She worked hard to learn to dance. She liked to create unique dances. When World War I struck, America turned from traditional music and dance to art that showed the American spirit. This became the groundwork for Agnes to produce some of the many beloved dances on stage and screen.

Bobrow, with the creative help of Urbinati, told the life story of Agnes de Mille with beauty and care. Bobrwo used transition words at each page turn to move the story along. The author shares a short biography that includes more information at the end of the book. Adults, as well as children, will enjoy reading this book.

MOMMAC 

The Sea We Call Home by Dominique Demers and Gabrielle Grimard - OPTIONAL

The Sea We Call Home by Dominique Demers and Gabrielle Grimard. PICTURE BOOK. Pajama Press, 2026. $19. 9781772783674

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Little Gnouf and Mirabelle are excited for their first day at the beach. The walk to the beach seems to take forever. When they arrive, they see a baby whale all tied up in a fisherman’s net on the beach. They decide to help it. 

The adorable little Gnouf animals captivate the reader. But, this stilted story about saving the environment falls flat. The author could have used much more imagery to bring this cute story to life. The book can be enjoyed solely for its illustrations.

MOMMAC 

Moon Sailors by Naomi Woodward and Rachel Gregg - ESSENTIAL

Moon Sailors by Naomi Woodward and Rachel Gregg. PICTURE BOOK.Blue Dot Kids Press, 2026. $19. 9798989858859

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A boy and girl set sail with their bed sheets as sails. They sail into dreamland where they encounter our beautiful world and its creatures. They make a wish and sore through the skies. The sea gently rocks them to sleep.

Woodward describes the childlike wonder we all feel as we explore the wonders of nature. Her words are finely crafted using metaphor and simile. Her verb use captures our attention. This is a deliciously illustrated book about wonder.

MOMMAC 

The Outermost Mouse by Lauren Wolk and Kristen Adam - ADVISABLE

The Outermost Mouse by Lauren Wolk and Kristen Adam. PICTURE BOOK. Dutton Children's Books (Penguin), 2026. $19. 9780593407776

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

An old man lived in a house at the tip of the beach and so did Mouse. Mouse could see that the sea grew closer to the house with each passing year. She worried that the house would be swallowed by the sea. She tried many things to keep the water at bay. But, one night the storm came anyway.

Wolk tells the true story of a beach house belonging to a naturalist through the eyes of a mouse. The author’s note at the end of the book tells about the man, Henry Beston, and his house. This exquisitely illustrated book speaks of conservation and love of home. Adults and children alike will enjoy reading this book.

MOMMAC

The Dance of Courage by Misty Copeland and Setor Fiadzigbey - ESSENTIAL

The Dance of Courage (Bunheads, Act 2 )by Misty Copeland and Setor Fiadzigbey. PICTURE BOOK.Nancy Paulsen Books (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780399547683

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Misty and Cat are friends who love the art of ballet. One day when Misty was visiting Cat, Cat told her how she wanted their next performance to be the ballet, Don Quixote and how Don Quixote searches far and wide for his love, Dulcinea. The next day at ballet rehearsal, Cat suggests that the company perform it.

Misty Copeland, as an expert on ballet, wrote a touching story about two friends who lift and care for each other. Copeland, as the first black American to be promoted to principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre, can understand the need for inclusion and kindness in team situations, which she shares so well in this sweetly illustrated story. Misty is a black American and Cat is Hispanic.

MOMMAC 

We Always Had Wings by Jess X. Snow - ESSENTIAL

We Always Had Wings by Jess X. Snow. PICTURE BOOK Penguin Random House, 2025. $19. 9780593428511

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Snow and her mother are flying back to China to visit her grandmother in China. Snow is afraid as she watches the only home she has known disappear in the clouds. Her mother tells her a story that helps calm her fears.

Snow tells the story of her childhood when she is able to go back to China to visit her grandmother. But, the story has deeper meaning about immigration, refugees, and the longing for home. The beautiful illustrations send the imagination flying.

MOMMAC 

Pig Dreams by Margarita del Marzo and Guridi - ADVISABLE

Pig Dreams by Margarita del Marzo and Guridi. PICTURE BOOK. NubeOcho, 2025. $18. 9788410406629

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Pigs wonder about many things. Some pigs wondered why sheep were the ones allowed to put Johnny to sleep every night. THe pigs will do crafty thing sin order to realize their dream.

Mazo created a cute, funny story about pig angst. The emotions of the pigs are gleefully illustrated on their faces and those of the sheep. Children and adults alike will laugh at these antics.

MOMMAC 

Love That Baby Hair by Alliah L. Agostini and Sawyer Cloud - ADVISABLE

Love That Baby Hair by Alliah L. Agostini and Sawyer Cloud. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge Publishing, 2026. $18. 9781623546687

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Babies can have no hair. They can have bald spots. Some baby hair is straight while others are curly. Hair comes in many colors. All this depends on your parents genes. The timing of the first haircut is determined by culture and family tradition.

A young child will love this fast paced book. The words have rhythm and repetition. The illustrations of all kinds of babies and hair types keep a reader turning the pages. Every skin color and many races appears to be represented in this book.

MOMMAC 

The Worried Book by Howard Pearlstein and James Munro - ESSENTIAL

The Worried Book by Howard Pearlstein and James Munro. PICTURE BOOK. Red Comet Press, 2025. $17. 9781636551982

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

This book wants to be read, but then it worries that you won't like it. Or, what if you use it as a coloring book, or what it gets lost? The book realizes that everyone worries, and maybe instead of worrying about everything that could go wrong, it could try thinking of what could go right.

Like The Shy Book, the Worried Book teaches an important lesson of resilience. It normalizes being worried and offers realistic advice for what to do when worries start to get out of control. Cute illustrations with minimal colors support a text that flows well. The background characters are illustrated with various ethnicities and abilities.

Rachel, elementary school librarian 

Gotta Go! by Frank Vita - OPTIONAL

Gotta Go! by Frank Vita. PICTURE BOOK. TOON Books, 2023. $19. 9781662665073

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Owen is going to see Grampa for a day at the park. His mom asked him if he had to pee before they left, but he has to go now! Owen makes it to Grampa's bathroom just in time. At the park Grampa teaches Owen some silly dances that help him when he has to pee.

This book was not for me, but kids who love potty-talk will enjoy it. The illustrations are mostly black, white, and shades of yellow. The text is speech bubbles, which I normally enjoy, but some of the pages were hard to follow the order of the panels. The main characters are white; background characters are multi-racial.

Rachel, Elementary school librarian 

Prince Bedhead by Taye Diggs, Shannon Stoeke, and Paul Kellam - OPTIONAL

Prince Bedhead by Taye Diggs, Shannon Stoeke, and Paul Kellam. PICTURE BOOK. Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan), 2026. $19. 9781250831309

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

The prince of Gladly has wild hair. His dad is unhappy that he can’t keep his crown on his head, so the boy goes to a friend to help him.

While I am a fan of the sentiment of the story, I am not a fan of the sing-songy text. The illustrations are bright and fun, but I also don’t understand how the crown design that the prince settles on is such a revelation to the kingdom. It just doesn’t make sense.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Houdini's Library by Barb Rosenstock and Mar Delmar - ESSENTIAL

Houdini's Library by Barb Rosenstock and Mar Delmar. NON-FICTION, BIOGRAPHY PICTURE BOOK. Alfred A. Knopf (Random), 2026. $19. 9780593570135

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Did you ever wonder where Harry Houdini learned how to be a magician? It was through reading books! Houdini's Library is the story of Harry's life, how he started out in a poor family of a Jewish rabbi. Houdini worked many jobs before finding a book about magic. That book changed his life.

Houdini's Library is a very intriguing story that teaches how important books are. Harry was actually and avid reader and book collector. The illustrations are beautifully painted and some of them look like postcards or photos. Houdini's Library would be a great read aloud and would hopefully help to promote the biography section in the library. Harry and his family are Jewish.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian 

Worm on the Job by Maureen Fergus and Paul Hammond - ADVISABLE

Worm on the Job by Maureen Fergus and Paul Hammond. PICTURE BOOK. Kids Can Press, 2026. $20. 9781525313165

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Worm has read every book in the library, so he sets out to find a new job. Though the manager of the convention center doesn’t think Worm can do it, he gives Worm an overnight trial. Maybe Worm will have a chance to prove himself.

Lots of silliness here. You have to suspend your belief and take Worm as the capable figure he sees himself.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Upside-Down Iftar by Maysa Odeh and Nadine Issa - ADVISABLE

Upside-Down Iftar by Maysa Odeh and Nadine Issa. PICTURE BOOK. Henry Holt and Co. (Macmillan), 2026. $19. 9781250365552

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Malak is too young to fast during Ramadan, so she asks her grandmother to help her make something special for the rest of the family. They decide on makloubeh, a rice, meat, and vegetable dish. Everyone likes a different gathering of ingredients. Malak wants to make something to please everyone, but also to be true to herself.

More a story about grandmother and granddaughter enjoy cooking together, than a look at Remadan. It is a very sweet look, however. Students who celebrate Ramadan will love thai representation. And this would easily be a part of a holiday unit - especially one that includes food!

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Leave Me Alone! by Dr Becky Kennedy and Joanie Stone - ADVISABLE

Leave Me Alone! A Good Inside Story About Deeply Feeling Kids by Dr Becky Kennedy and Joanie Stone. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan), 2026. $20. 9781250413116

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

When Pia trips and ruins the game she was playing with her older brother, her feelings explode and her sad becomes mad instead. Her mother takes her upstairs and sits with Pia as she finally works through her hard feelings.

The title and cover of the book are heavy handed, but the story itself is sweet and nickel written.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Cook in a Book! Cake by Lotta Nieminem - ADVISABLE

Cook in a Book! Cake by Lotta Nieminem. INTERACTIVE BOARD BOOK. Phaidon, 2025. $23. 9781837290246

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The latest offer in the Cook in a Book series let you bake a cake without getting a single spoon dirty. Or, you can follow the recipe with the real ingredients and have something tasty at the end to enjoy. This is a fun, innovative series that doesn’t disappoint from book to book.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Sometimes We Pray by Mary Wagley Copp and Felishia Henditirto - ADVISABLE

Sometimes We Pray by Mary Wagley Copp and Felishia Henditirto. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2026. $18. 9781623546403

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

There are many ways people pray like on our knees, lying down, or watching the stars. There are many places people pray like at a mosque, a meetinghouse, or a synagogue. People pray in silence, or dancing, or chanting. When things don't always go their way, people continue to pray. Prayer can unite us.

Copp beautifully describes prayer experience from many points of view. She writes about her experience with students at prayer and her research on the subject at the end of the book. The sweet illustration reflects many cultures in prayer and invites joy. There are illustrations of every color of skin and also reflects various cultures and religions.

MOMMAC 

The Dream by Gideon Sterer and Nick Henderson - OPTIONAL

The Dream by Gideon Sterer and Nick Henderson. PICTURE BOOK. Clarion Books (Harper), 2025. $14. 9780063357990

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

An elementary aged girl is supposedly moving to a new home. On her way she passes factories, pollution and landfills. She is disheartened by how humans treat the earth. That night the girl dreams that she meets a wolf that feels the same way. By working together, can they make a difference?

This is a wordless picture book that evokes strong emotions. Most pictures are very moody and muted. The Dream has beautiful illustrations and an important message but would work better with grades 4-6 or perhaps middle school. Would be a good read aloud for Earth Day but I don't know that individual students would want to check it out.

The girl is presumably white.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian https://www.kingsenglish.com/item/UhelvOrckPncvaDzqr4dmw

Welcome to the Nighttime Train by Louise Fitzgerald and Margarita Kukhtina - ESSENTIAL

Welcome to the Nighttime Train by Louise Fitzgerald and Margarita Kukhtina. PICTURE BOOK. Nosy Crow Inc., 2025. $18. 9798887772059

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

The Nighttime train is here to pick up children at bedtime. The first stop is Pajamaville. The second stop is Toothbrush Town. Then, on to Library Land, and the train finishes at Starlight Skies in their own beds. 

Fitzgerald creates a joy filled book about going to bed. She uses Onomatopoeia and Alliteration to enrich and create flow of the story. The illustrations are cute animals that look like stuffed toys that could represent any child. A read aloud audio book is attached with a QR code on the back cover. The speech of the performer carries on at a good pace, with clear wording, but feels a little monotonous compared to the excitement of the storyline. The one part of the read aloud that was irritating happened when the reader finished the sentence on another page after a ""turn the page"" bell had rung. " Any child could see themselves in this book.

MOMMAC 

The Girl Who Was Too Big for the Page by Geena Davis - ADVISABLE

The Girl Who Was Too Big for the Page by Geena Davis. PICTURE BOOK. Philomel Books (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593463963

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Follow Sheila, who at the beginning of the book is just a baby and still crawling. As each year passes, Sheila gets one year older. She goes on adventures with her family- so big that they don't fit on the pages in the book. But after one summer, Sheila comes back to school and she is a lot taller than her friends. Her head doesn't even fit on the page! At first, Sheila is upset that she is so different from her friends. Sheila realizes that she doesn't need to change herself, she will always fit somewhere in the world.

I liked the idea of this plot, but it didn't draw me in. The theme of being yourself and that it's ok to be different is great. My 7 year old daughter thought it was a fun story, but not one she would want to reread.

Reviewer: A. Criswell, English Language Arts teacher 

Diary of a Bee by Stepanka Sekaninova and Linh Dao - OPTIONAL

Diary of a Bee by Stepanka Sekaninova and Linh Dao. Translated by Mark Worthington. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. B4U Publishing for Albatros, 2025. $17. 9788000074467

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

The 37-day life of Matilda, a worker bee, is spent feeding larva, collecting pollen, cleaning and protecting the hive, and doing other worker bee tasks. Matilda explains how a hive works including the different bees and their jobs. I appreciated the cute illustrations and that the text was geared toward a young audience. 

That said, I didn't love all the ways the bees were anthropomorphized. In one instance, Matilda's drone friend, Thomas is excited for his ""wedding flight."" He is described as the youngest bee who is flying off with a group of drones to mate with the queen. Matilda hopes he will come back, because the bees that mate with the queen will die. Thomas does come back and is disappointed because he couldn't finish his task. Kids probably won't read too much into this, but as an adult, it seemed a bit odd to give a bee characteristics of a young boy and use that bee to teach how drones mate with the queen.

Rachel, elementary school librarian 

Katherine Johnson by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Jemma Skidmore - ADVISABLE

Katherine Johnson by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Jemma Skidmore. NON-FICTION BIOGRAPHY PICTURE BOOK. Frances Lincoln (Quarto), 2025. $16. 9781836001775

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Kathrine loves learning and has always had a talent for math. She graduated high school at 14 and was the first Black woman at her university. Katherine Johnson led a team of mathematicians at NASA and helped send people into space. Kathrine's story is one of following your dreams and never giving up.

I loved the illustrations and simple text of this biographical picture book. This would make a great addition to any school, classroom, or public library.

Rachel, elementary school librarian 

Llama Llama a Gift for Mama by Anna Dewdney and JT Morrow - ESSENTIAL

Llama Llama a Gift for Mama by Anna Dewdney and JT Morrow. PICTURE BOOK. Viking Books (Penguin), 2025. $16. 9780593353264

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

Christmas is coming and Llama llama wants to get the perfect gift for his mom. He makes her a fancy ornament, but then accidentally drops and breaks it. What is Llama llama going to do now? His Grandmas said that spending time with her would be the best gift, but Llama llama isn't convinced. After repeatedly asking his mom what she would like, he begins to think it is hopeless. Llama llama learns that not all gifts are things that can be unwrapped and Christmas is saved.

My daughter and I enjoyed this book because of the familiar characters. It taught a good lesson that not all gifts are the same. We liked how to show that spending time with a loved one can be the best gift of all.

Reviewer: A. Criswell, English Language Arts teacher 

Here Come the Aunties! by Cynthia Leitich Smith and Aphelandra - ADVISABLE

Here Come the Aunties! by Cynthia Leitich Smith and Aphelandra. PICTURE BOOK. Harper Collins Children's Books, 2026. $18. 9780063374690

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

A young boy is so lucky to have many aunties in his life. From biological aunts to friends, neighbors and community members,the boy and his family are loved by so many! Aunties teach him at school, go fishing and make moccasins for him. Is it possible to have too many aunties?

Leitich Smith celebrates the boy's indigenous heritage. She goes through all the seasons and all that the aunties do for the boy and his family. There are only a few sentences on each page and the pages are colorful. Here Comes the Aunties is a beautiful dedication to Indigenous culture. The boy and his family are indigenous but it does not identify which tribe.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian