Just One Oak by Maria Gianferrari and Diana Sudyka - ADVISABLE

Just One Oak by Maria Gianferrari, illustrated by Diana Sudyka. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane Books (Simon),  2026. $20. 9781665961042

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

An oak tree is so much more than meets the eye.  From tiny fungi to mighty mammals, this amazing tree contains a whole world.  Learn about how insects, birds, bears, squirrels, Owls, deer, foxes and many more creatures are drawn to the rich and healthy environment an oak creates.

Gianferrari comprehensively and simply teaches the reader about all the amazing ways an oak supports the animals and plants around it.  Each page is a delight with beautiful illustrations and fun interesting facts.

PGPowers

Van Gogh's Dog by Georgia Larson and Grace Helmer - ADVISABLE

Van Gogh's Dog by Georgia Larson, illustrated by Grace Helmer. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Studio, 2024. $20. 9798217024025

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Vincent Van Gogh is an artist with nothing to paint.  While he is outside trying to think of something to paint,  a little dog comes up and steals his paintbrush.  Vincent runs after the little dog to get back his paintbrush.  He chases the dog through a sunflower field,  an evening cafe,  a beautiful night with twinkling stars, and even goes out in a rowboat and notices the swirls and ripples of the water.  How will this adventure end, and will Vincent finally have something to paint?

Van Gogh's Dog is a fun way to introduce young readers to his iconic art.  Although the playful story is obviously not true, it helps the reader see the sights that could have inspired Van Gogh's beautiful paintings.  Helmer's illustrations are fun and expressive.

PGPowers

My Sister Goose by Alyssa Satin Capucilli and Hyewon Yum - ADVISABLE

My Sister Goose by Alyssa Satin Capucilli, illustrated by Hyewon Yum. PICTURE BOOK. Hippo Park (Astra), 2026. $19. 9781662640995

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Miranda has a younger sister named Graciela but everyone calls her Goose.  When goose gets dressed, Miranda never knows what to expect.  One morning Goose dresses in her swimming suit for school. Miranda tells her that she could wear clothes over her swimming suit.  Miranda continues to help Goose with better choices for the playground and other activities.  Is it alright to wear a ballet tutu in the snow?

My Sister, Goose is warm and funny and teaches gentle wisdom and kindness for those who dress effervescently.  Yum's illustrations are very cute.

PGPowers

Lawn-Mowing Day! by Breanna Carzoo - OPTIONAL

Lawn-Mowing Day! by Breanna Carzoo. BOARD BOOK Simon and Schuster, 2026. $8 9781665973472 

BUYING ADVISORY: PRE-K - OPTIONAL 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

The grass is long, so it's lawn mowing day for three little animals. 

Not much of a story. Little ones might like the patterns in the grass, but I don't know how engaging mowing the lawn is to toddlers. The art is bright, but the animals are boxy-shaped. 

Michelle in the Middle 

Mary Morland in the Time of Dinosaur Discovery by Jane Kurtz and Giselle Potter - ADVISABLE

Mary Morland in the Time of Dinosaur Discovery by Jane Kurtz and Giselle Potter. BIOGRAPHY, PICTURE BOOK Beach Lane (Simon), 2026. $20 9781665955546 

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

When Mary was young, instead of being a proper little girl, she liked to play outside and explore, and she drew pictures of what she found in a journal. As a teen, she corresponded with a French scientist sending him specimens. She loved fossils and minerals. Mary was very good at drawing, and drew fossils for book illustrations, helping her husband who wrote the books. Although not credited at the time, she is part of the dinosaur discovery story. 

The story addresses the reader with questions like "wouldn't you?" and "did she" - not sure I like that, but it moves the story along and builds anticipation, I guess. Includes an author's note, sources, and resources. I enjoyed learning about Mary Moreland and finding another Victorian female scientist. The illustrations are colorful and reflect the time period. Mary is English 

Lisa Librarian No https://www.kingsenglish.com/item/uhkEB3h562sL-W0GagWBlw

No, I'm a Shark by Mike Henson and Ava Gomez - ADVISABLE

No, I'm a Shark by Mike Henson, illustrated by Ava Gomez. PICTURE BOOK. Happy Yak, 2026. $19. 9781836001997

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

A grown-up asks a young boy what he wants to be when he grows up.  He puts on his shark puppet and says that he wants to be a shark.  The adult tries to give him other ideas such as a firefighter, a nurse,  a teacher, or a builder, but each time the boy yells that he wants to be a shark.  When the adult suggests fish for dinner, the boy reconsiders and chooses a surprising new future occupation.

No, I'm a Shark! is fun, humorous, and imaginative.  I liked the sensible verses/silly dynamic between adult and child. It did seem a little cold when calling what looked like a mom "my grown-up".  Gomez's quirky, colorful illustrations added more silly fun.

PGPowers

Her Muddy Majesty of Muck by Beatrice Alemagna - ADVISABLE

Her Muddy Majesty of Muck by Beatrice Alemagna. PICTURE BOOK. Hippo Park (Astra), 2025. $20. 9781662641305

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A young girl named Yuki is picked up from school by her brother who she thinks doesn't like her because she has a terrible temper.  While they walk home from school, Yuki throws the house keys down a manhole.  Her brother Shen is far ahead and doesn't notice.  Yuki decides to climb down the manhole and get the keys.  She climbs down into a surreal world where she meets the Mud Princess and other "yucky" beings.  As she traverses this thick world of mud, she learns to navigate her emotions.  Who ultimately saves her and brings her home?

Her Muddy Majesty of Muck is interesting as it relates emotions like anger and frustration into tangible images.  Alemagna's illustrations are deep, dark, unique, and successfully represent negative feelings.

PGPowers

Black Hands: Builders of Our Nation by Carole Boston Weatherford and R. Gregory Christie - ADVISABLE

Black Hands: Builders of Our Nation by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Crown Books (Random), 2026. $20. 9798217031856

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Black Hands commemorates the innumerable ways the African American community has shaped the foundation of the United States.  Learn how African Americans have contributed to the nation's culture, politics, economy and landscape.  Learn about their contributions to building the White House, birthing jazz, and landing a man on the moon,  pushing for social justice and more.

Black Hands is a wonderful reminder of how African Americans have helped shape our great nation, and their remarkable progress even in the face of adversity.

PGPowers

Miles Ahead by Ninh Le and Lynnor Bontigao - ADVISABLE

Miles Ahead by Ninh Le, illustrated by Lynnor Bontigao. PICTURE BOOK. Alfred A. Knopf (Random), 2026. $19. 9780593569207

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

A young boy is so excited for a family road trip to visit a new baby cousin.  He and his dog Miles get ready by packing his backpack with everything he can think of.  He also wonders to his sister what baby present the family is bringing.  In the chaos of packing the car, the present for the new baby goes missing.  The family searches the house.  They find their old baby things, but not the present.  What can they bring to the new baby instead?

Miles Ahead is adorably humorous and filled with playful, detailed illustrations.  I liked the clever ending and the discovery of what makes a gift truly special.

An Asian family is depicted in the illustrations.

PGPowers

Mama Won't Mind by Kathleen Bahr and Ramona Kaulitzki - ESSENTIAL

Mama Won't Mind by Kathleen Bahr, illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books, 2026. $20. 9798217024728

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

A young raccoon named Henry picks a sunflower for his mother’s birthday, but along the way, he keeps sharing pieces of it with others, believing, “Mama won’t mind.” In the end, he is left with nothing to give his Mama for her birthday.  Using his imagination and creativity, Henry ends up creating a stunning, on-of-a-king gift that his Mama absolutely adores! 

The story is simple yet touching.  The illustrations are bright, bold and inviting.  The story is easy to understand, making it a great read for young children, especially ages 3–7. The illustrations (by Ramona Kaulitzki) also add warmth and charm, helping bring the story to life. This would be a perfect gift for Mother’s Day. 

S. Lewis

No Way, Wash Day by Adrienne Thurman and Kaylani Juanita. - ADVISABLE

No Way, Wash Day by Adrienne Thurman, illustrated by Kaylani Juanita. PICTURE BOOK. Harper Collins, 2026. $16. 9780063290051

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Nina Belle loves everything about her hair-except wash day.  She tries everything she can to get out of it.  Nina Belle covers her hair and even finds different hiding places.  When Mama finds her, she explains that wash day represents love and time spent together as mother and daughter.

No Way, Wash Day is a sweet book about doing things you may not want to do.  It is also about seeing things in a different way.  The text is minimal and the illustrations are eye-catching and colorful.  This book is one that children will either relate to or will help them learn about someone who may not look like them.

Nina Belle and her family are black.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian

Where Do Race Cars Sleep at Night? by Brianna Caplan Sayres and Christian Slade - ADVISABLE

Where Do Race Cars Sleep at Night? by Brianna Caplan Sayres, illustrated by Christian Slade. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2026. $13. 9780593898031

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Race cars, hot rods, stock cars, sprint cars,  sports cars, and many more speedy vehicles are getting ready for bed in their own special way.  Some take a last victory lap.  Some get tucked in by their parent pit crew.  Does every fast car have a night time routine?

"Where Do Race Cars Sleep at Night? is a great bedtime book for children who love fast cars.

Slade's illustrations are cute and colorful.

PGPowers

I'm Busy by Michael Ian Black and Debbie Ridpath Ohi - OPTIONAL

I'm Busy by Michael Ian Black, illustrated by Debbie Ridpath Ohi. PICTURE BOOK. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2026. $20. 9781665915243

BUYING ADVISORY:  EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

A young girl's schedule is very busy.  She has so many important things to do like karate, trumpet lessons, Spanish and coding lessons.  Will she ever have time to play with Flamingo and Potato?  She tries to learn to find balance in her life.

The message of this book about finding balance in life is an important lesson for kids.  Even though the illustrations are bright and engaging, I found the plot to be a little strange.  The girl's best friends are a flamingo and a potato.  The text is interesting though because it is written in a certain color for each character.  The young girl is presumably white.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian

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

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

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Have you ever fallen? Have you ever taken a tumble? Feeling confused? Or bruised? Just call out to our friends, your banana friends!

Go Bananas is a must have for every parent and teacher who has little ones needing a “shout out” of love and fun in their young lives. The wording and illustrations of this picture book are spot on.  As a teacher and a parent, I imagine this book will be read and loved by many.  With bold colors and perfect facial expressions, Watkins is superb! A.B. Peele writes the perfect children’s book that is fun and interactive.  This book can be used in a unit on emotions and on motion/ physical exercise. 

S. Lewis

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), 2026. $20. 9781665990769

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

There is a gang about the farm! They are called The Skunk Gang and they are creating havoc on Old MacDonald’s Farm! Cows now have mustaches, horses have stripes, chickens have hats! Officer Busby from Animal Control is concerned until she realizes what day it is, April 1st! Just wait to see what happens on the 4th of July! The Skunk Gang is already starting to plan.

This a fun side story to the beloved “Old MacDonald Has a Farm”. The illustrations are detailed and very colorful. The farmer’s expressions are life-like and funny.  The addition to the Skunk Gang weaved into this story is a fun and unexpected twist. Officer Busby is black. 

S. Lewis

Our Islands by Yuval Zommer - ADVISABLE

Our Islands by Yuval Zommer. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK.  Thames & Hudson, 2025. $20. 9780500653685

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Our Islands takes young readers on a journey to unique islands around the world.  Readers will explore each island's location, formation, special plants, animals, extreme environment, and highlights any natural marvel.

Our Islands fuels the reader's natural curiosity with colorful, creative illustrations, and fun fact vignettes.  I liked the illustrated world map showing the location of these fascinating islands.

PGPowers

Millie and the Midnight Hedgehog by Bernadette Watts -- ADVISABLE

Millie and the Midnight Hedgehog by Bernadette Watts. PICTURE BOOK. North South, 2025. $20. 9780735846043

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Millie's parents care a lot about the planet.  Most of the time they are too busy for anything fun or enjoyable, so Millie passes lonely hours admiring Mrs. Periwinkle's wonderful garden.  One day, she gives Millie three potted plants.  As they grow, so does Millie's joy.  One night a storm threatens to knock the pots over.  When Millie goes out to check on them, she meets a hedgehog who gives her valuable advice about how she can show the earth she cares.

Watts weaves a modern environmental fairytale about connecting to nature and discovering joy and hope in plants and animals.  I enjoyed Watt's expressive storybook illustrations.

PGPowers

Buzz! Boom! Bang! The Book of Sounds by Benjamin Gottwald - ADVISABLE

Buzz! Boom! Bang!  The Book of Sounds by Benjamin Gottwald. PICTURE BOOK. North South, 2025. $22. 9780735846036

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

APPEALS TO:   MANY

Can you bang, boom, caw, crash, buzz, blub, pitter-patter, pffffft, whoosh, yawn, moo, or roar?  Then this read aloud book is for you!  just look at the picture and say whatever noise you think the picture is making.  

Buzz! Boom! Bang! is a fun and silly, interactive, wordless picture book where readers make sounds based on the colorful illustrations, encouraging creativity and imagination through onomatopoeia.

PGPowers

Who Are You? by Claire Keane - ADVISABLE

Who Are You? by Claire Keane. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Studio, 2026. $19 9798217029136

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A young girl and her basset hound explore nature asking the question, "Who are you?"  As the young girl wanders, she finds her identity through her experiences.  She is the rock beneath her and the clouds above her.  She is the grass and the butterfly.  She is the howling wind and the raindrops.  In her thoughtful wanderings she gets lost and frightened.  What does she realize when she finds her way home?

Keane gives us a thoughtful simplistic story about how every moment, both good and challenging, shapes who we become. I  liked Keane's loose style of illustration.

PGPowers

Father's Day Fuss by Suzanne Lang and Max Lang - ADVISABLE

Father's Day Fuss (Grumpy Monkey) by Suzanne Lang , illustrated by Max Lang. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Studio, 2026. $13. 9780593709405

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Jim Panzee tries to celebrate Father's Day by bringing his dad breakfast in bed, but his dad is already up.  He decides instead to make breakfast for Grandpanzee.  Grandpanzee doesn't like a fuss.  Jim learns where he gets his own grumpiness.  After exploring many humorous different ideas on ways to show appreciation, all three of them decide on the best way to celebrate Father's day.

Father's Day Fuss is a fun way to think about how you would celebrate your own father.  I loved all the silly antics of the characters.  I was amused with Lang's comical illustrations.

PGPowers

When I Redraw the World by Audrey Vernick and Heather Fox - ADVISABLE

When I Redraw the World by Audrey Vernick, illustrated by Heather Fox. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Studio, 2026. $19. 9780593811283

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

A young girl decides to draw pictures of how she would joyfully reimagine the world.  Everyone would have a home, and no one would be hungry.  Treehouse ice cream shops are a thing, and you can always find a kind elephant in case you need to reach something high.  Every tall mountain has a slide to come down, and confetti bursts whenever someone does something good.  She imagines many more wonderful things.  What would you want if you redrew the world?

When I Redraw the World is an endearing and fun celebration of imagination and curiosity.  I loved the creativity and the colorful illustrations

PGPowers

Wild About Capybaras! by Kevin McCloskey - ADVISABLE

Wild About Capybaras! by Kevin McCloskey. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Toon Book (Astra Books for Young Readers), 2026. $14. 9781662665776

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Capybaras are the world's largest and trendiest rodent, and beloved across the world.  Wild About Capybaras! is a Giggle and Learn graphic novel full of many facts about this trendy animal.  Capybaras can swim like seals, have fourteen toes, eat their own poop, and many more fun facts.

Wild About Capybaras is a quick, fun, and fascinating read for kids of all ages.  I really enjoyed the graphic novel format and McCloskey's humorous approach to the facts.

PGPowers

My Friend the Paintbrush: The Colorful World of Marcus Pfister by Marcus Pfister - ESSENTIAL

My Friend the Paintbrush: The Colorful World of Marcus Pfister by Marcus Pfister. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. NorthSouth Books, 2026. $20. 9780735845947

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

In an effort to inspire creativity, Marcus Pfister shares with readers his passion for painting and writing incredible children’s books.  From Rainbow Fish to Happy Hedgehog and Hooper, we see the different techniques he uses in his illustrations.  With fun rhyming, Phister shares his painting journey.  “On canvas, in oil, or gouache it’ll go. Watercolor, acrylic, all grand! Funny, fantastic- but digital? No! It’ll only work in my hand.”  It was fun to read and recognize beloved pages from Pfister’s many popular books. 

The translation is by David Henry Wilson.

S. Lewis

Bog Buddies by Amy Hevron - ADVISABLE

Bog Buddies by Amy Hevron. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane Books (Simon), 2026. $20. 9781665962674

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

This charming picture book follows the plants and creatures that call a “mossy mountain bog” their home.  Readers discover that even the messiest places can be full of magic. Hevron’s illustrations make the mud, moss, and dragonflies feel like you could reach out and touch them. The text is in regular font while the insect and animal conversations are in different font making it easy to differentiate between the two.  Bog Buddies is a wonderful reminder that there is beauty in the muck. It’s so easy to look at a swamp or a bog and think it’s just a dirty puddle, but this book helps kids (and adults!) see the life and importance hidden there. It’s simple, soulful, and very, very cute.

The conversations are adorable! Teachers and parents will love reading out loud this picture book as much as little ones will enjoy listening.  This picture book can be used in a unit on the ecosystem.

S. Lewis

Quietly . . . Quietly . . . QUACK! by Jonty Howley - ESSENTIAL

Quietly . . . Quietly . . . QUACK! by Jonty Howley. PICTURE BOOK. Happy Yak, 2026. $20. 9781836005896

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

A family of ducklings is trying to navigate their morning routine without waking up the momma duck.  Morning is the perfect time to explore the farm so they snuck out of the duck house.  Two of the three ducklings know how to be really, really quiet.  But the youngest, who is fashioned in a blue scarf, ultimately blurts out, “QUACK” at the hint of any danger.  From a house bucking to a fox burrow, the ducklings find themselves in compromising situations.  Will the ducklings finally make their way safely back to the duck house?

Howley’s art style is stylish and warm, with expressive characters that perfectly capture the "tip-toeing" energy of the story.  The illustrations are the sweetest part of this picture book.  There is something so relatable about trying to be as quiet as possible, only for the smallest thing to trigger a giant explosion of noise. I loved the sweet, simple plot and the adorable illustration.

S. Lewis

Bookie & Cookie Turn the Page by Blanca Gómez - ESSENTIAL

Bookie & Cookie Turn the Page by Blanca Gómez. PICTURE BOOK. Penguin Young Readers Group, 2026. $19. 9780593696835

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Bookie and Cookie have very different personalities—Bookie loves adventure and see’s the world as a playground, while Cookie prefers to stay on the safe side of situations. When Bookie wants to “turn the page,” Cookie is hesitant.  “What if we find something bad?”  The two friends discover that sharing experiences can be both fun and rewarding and in the end, Bookie’s adventurous side rubs off onto Cookie and the fun begins. 

Gomez’s illustrations are simple yet expressive, using soft colors and clean lines that make the story feel warm and inviting. The text is easy to follow, making it a great choice for young readers or for reading aloud. This book delivers a sweet message about being open to new interests and appreciating what others enjoy. It’s a delightful read for children and a nice reminder about the value of friendship and the joy of trying new things. 

The boys are illustrated as white and Black.

S. Lewis

Bear Worries by Natalia Shaloshvili - ADVISABLE

Bear Worries by Natalia Shaloshvili. PICTURE BOOK. Frances Lincoln Children's Books (Quarto), 2026. $19. 9781805701019

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

A little bear who starts to worry about many things, and those worries begin to feel bigger and harder to ignore. “What if this is the last cookie? And the cookie store is about to close? And I miss the last bus to the cookie store?” And so it goes until Bear finally makes it to the cookie store with the very long line of waiting customers.  Will Bear get the last cookie? Or will all his efforts and worry be for nothing? 

Shaloshvili's illustrations are soft and expressive, perfectly capturing the bear’s emotions and helping readers connect with the story. They are stunning! The simple text makes it easy for children to follow along while also opening the door for conversations about feelings and how to handle them. This book offers a reassuring message that worries are normal and can be managed, especially with support. I understand the author was trying for humor in the final pages but I feel like he missed an opportunity to have the ending be a sweet, comfortable situation that would also lend to discussions about sharing and friendship.

S. Lewis

Mama Loves It by Raffi and Patricia Pessoa - OPTIONAL

Mama Loves It by Raffi, illustrated by Patricia Pessoa . PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books, 2026. $19. 9798217116348

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Mamas and Papas have many chores to complete around the house.  When children help with the chores, it is much appreciated.  “A happy home is the one where the kids are pitchin’ in, and they do their part to keep things going right.” The sheet music is added to the end of the book so that parents/ teachers can learn the melody and teach the song to little helpers. 

The sentiment is cute and can be used in a unit on chores and household duties.  A unit on teamwork and families could also use this picture book as an added bonus.  The illustrations are sweet and detailed.  I didn’t find the song/ lyrics to be as enticing as other options.  Overall, Mama Loves It is a book that highlights love, connection, and shared experiences.

S. Lewis

Jacomini by Rebecca Dautremer - ESSENTIAL

Jacomini by Rebecca Dautremer. BOARD BOOK. Post Wave, 2026. $19. 9798895090428

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

This book may be small in format, but it has a Big Heart! Jacomini is a dreamer; he’s clever and gentle.  But can someone be too much of a dreamer? Too clever? Too gentle? No! All of Jacomini’s best qualities are character traits we should all want to emulate.  

Usually, board books are loud and fast, but this one is sweet, soft and tender. I could look at the illustrations all day with their rich, breathtaking, classical colors.  One can “feel” the texture of Jocomini’s sweater, see the details of the dandelion seeds, and almost touch the wisps of fir on many of the animals. A beautiful lesson is taught: whether tender or tough, true friends accept you just the way you are. The sturdy pages can withstand the enthusiasm of little hands. It’s a beautiful, durable “must have” for a nursery bookshelf.

S. Lewis

The Secret Recipe written by Ilan Stavans and Taia Morley - OPTIONAL

The Secret Recipe written by Ilan Stavans, illustrated by Taia Morley. PICTURE BOOK. Kar-Ben Publishing (Lerner Publishing Group), 2025. $19. 9781728486437

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: FEW

A young boy is inspired to learn more about his family heritage when cooking with his grandmother and hears her use a secret language. Together with our young protagonist, learn how food, language, and culture are integrally tied together through the centuries.

Yes, it is another picture book about food (I can’t help myself!), but this one is about the Sephardic Jews that left Spain and Portugal in the 15th century who speak Ladino, which is a combination of Old Spanish and Hebrew. I liked learning about a culture and history that I was unfamiliar with, but most kids aren’t going to understand how it differs from Spanish because the Ladino words in the story sound very similar, even though they are spelled differently.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes 

Faruq and the Wiri Wiri written by Sophia Payne and Sandhya Prabhat - ADVISABLE

Faruq and the Wiri Wiri written by Sophia Payne, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat. PICTURE BOOK. Templar Books (Candlewick Press), 2025. $19. 9781536241228

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Faruq learns the art of cooking from his friendly neighbor, an elderly woman by the name of Mrs. Joseph. By utilizing unique Guyanese ingredients like the wiri wiri berry, he prepares a healing soup for his ailing grandmother and a massive lunchtime feast for his entire extended family.

I was not aware that South Asians represent almost 50% of Guyana's population, but the author is Indo-Guyanese and the picture book represents the author growing up in that unique culture. I really liked the colorful and vibrant illustrations. I thought they accurately captured the vivacity of Faruq’s family and culture. I would recommend this for a classroom library, and could be a fun culture study for the Caribbean area.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes 

Wanda Hears the Stars: A Blind Astronomer Listens to the Universe by Amy S. Hansen, Wanda Díaz Merced and Rocio Arreola Mendoza - ADVISABLE

Wanda Hears the Stars A Blind Astronomer Listens to the Universe by Amy S. Hansen and Wanda Díaz Merced, illustrated by Rocio Arreola Mendoza. BIOGRAPHY, NON-FICTION, PICTURE BOOK Charlesbridge/Imagine, 2025. $19. 9781623544874 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

When Wanda Diaz Merced was a little girl, she loved to be in the outdoors with her family - she and her father looked at the stars when they went on a fishing trip. She felt a special connection and had lots of questions. She studied Physics in college with her dream being to study the stars, but her diabetes took her vision while at college so she needed to find another route. One day, while she was experiencing a special radio her friend had engineered, Wanda was able to hear sounds coming from space and the stars. The door to her studies re-opened as she had found another path. She is a scientist and an advocate for those with disabilities. 

What an inspirational story! And how brave she must have been to apply to NASA, which required her to move from Puerto Rico, learn English and find her way around a new campus without sight. I can see my star lovers and my biography readers really liking this introduction to Wanda Merced. Includes a lot of backmatter: Glossary (both of science terms and Spanish words), a note from Wanda and the author, notes about the radio, as well as a timeline and bibliography. Wanda is from Puerto Rico 

Lisa Librarian 

No, I'm a…Flamingo! written by Catharine Robertson and Ana Gomez - ADVISABLE

No, I'm a…Flamingo! written by Catharine Robertson, illustrated by Ana Gomez. PICTURE BOOK. Happy Yak (The Quarto Group), 2025. $19. 9781836002031

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Follow a long suffering father as he tries to get his 3 1/2 year-old to wear something other than a flamingo onesie. They go through different outfit ideas before finally settling on what the toddler wants to wear.

This picture book is something that would resonate with anyone who has tried to get a toddler ready for the day, and kids would like it because they all have favorite clothes that they like to wear. I thought it was fun and silly and would work really well for any class read-aloud.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Shabbat Shalom: Let's Rest and Reset by Suzy Ultman - OPTIONAL

Shabbat Shalom: Let's Rest and Reset by Suzy Ultman. BOARD BOOK Penguin, 2025. $10. 9780593751930 

BUYING ADVISORY: PRE-K - OPTIONAL 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

During the week we do the doing, but Friday night Shabbat begins, and we focus on being. 

What a darling board book - I love that resting can be different for different people. A simple explanation of what the child should do on Shabbat. 

Lisa Librarian. 

One Day in June written by Tourmaline and Charlot Kristensen - OPTIONAL

One Day in June written by Tourmaline, illustrated by Charlot Kristensen. PICTURE BOOK. Penguin Young Readers Group (Penguin Random House), 2025. $19. 9780593525371

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: FEW

Told in alternative timelines, switching from NYC in 2020 to NYC of the late 60s, this picture book is a fictionalized look of the life of Marsha P Johnson, a black trans woman activist at the heart of the Stonewall riots in New York City, 1969.

I don’t know a lot of details around the Stonewall riots, but I did hear of Marsha’s name and have seen pictures of her before. This book is more about her as an individual, and less about the historical events that led to those riots in June. I wish it had more verifiable historical context, but I did appreciate the unapologetic look at trans joy and the woman that started LGBTQ Pride for so many people. I do think that it will only appeal to a few students though.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Rocket Ship, Solo Trip by Chiara Colombi and Scott Magoon - ADVISABLE

Rocket Ship, Solo Trip by Chiara Colombi, illustrated by Scott Magoon. BOARD BOOK. Penguin Young Readers Group, 2026. $9. 9798217040384

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A young astronaut is preparing for a momentous mission: a solo journey.

While the setting is a gleaming, high-tech outer space, the emotional core is grounded in the "firsts" every child faces, like the first day of school or sleeping in their own bed. Rocket Ship, Solo Trip is the perfect "bravery" book for any little explorer about to take a big step. The bright, bold colors are inviting and fun.  I loved the countdown motif to build suspense.  This mimics the heartbeat of a child who is both terrified and excited about many ""firsts"" in their life.  This is a sweet book that will be loved by many. 

S. Lewis

A Compendium of Curious Contraptions: A Guessing Game about History's Most Unusual Artifacts written by Anna Goldfield, illustrated by Paula Zamudio - ADVISABLE

A Compendium of Curious Contraptions: A Guessing Game about History's Most Unusual Artifacts written by Anna Goldfield, illustrated by Paula Zamudio. PICTURE BOOK. St. Martin's Publishing Group (Macmillan Publishers), 2025. $20. 9781684494538

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Archaeologist Anna Goldfield shares a variety of mysterious historical artifacts from around the world in a unique guessing game to see the weird and wonderful things humans have used throughout history.

I thought this was a super fun way to engage readers in historical nonfiction. Each page features different clues to help the reader guess what the artifact might have been used for and then they can uncover the flap to find out more details about the historical artifacts. The author included a wide range of historical artifacts from all over the world, not just Western Europe. I could see this being used as supplemental materials for a history class, especially when talking about artifacts and how historians & archeologists learn about the past through what humans leave behind.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Perla and the Pirate written by Isabel Allende and Sandy Rodriguez - ADVISABLE

Perla and the Pirate written by Isabel Allende, illustrated by Sandy Rodriguez. PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane Books (Simon & Schuster), 2025. $20. 9781665961028

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Perla the dog and her boy, Nico have a new neighbor, the Pirate! He is really a teenager in a rock band, but he wears a Pirate t-shirt. One day, Nico gets lost walking home from school, and it’s up to Perla, the Pirate, and Nico’s older sister, Liz, to find Nico again.

This is the second in the Perla series, and for the most part, it’s okay if you haven’t read the first book. I will say that I had forgotten who Liz was at the beginning, but then I figured it out. My biggest complaint (and this was also the case with the first book) was the magical elements that were sort of sprinkled through the book. The magic can easily be explained as the result of a child’s imagination, but for an adult, the lack of a logical magical framework is a little infuriating. All in all, a cute story about a boy and his dog, and how the dog is the hero at the end of the day.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Our Prehistoric Planet by Sue Lowell Gallion and Lisk Feng - ADVISABLE

Our Prehistoric Planet: Dinosaurs and Other Creatures of the Past by Sue Lowell Gallion, illustrated by Lisk Feng. BOARD BOOK. Phaidon Press, 2026. $20. 9781837290390

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Our Prehistoric Planet is such a fun and unique book! The accordion-fold format is unlike any other.  When fully opened, magnets connect and create a globe shape that can be placed on the desk or floor.  Gallion explores famous dinosaurs as well as early sea life, soaring pterosaurs, and the eventual rise of mammals.  

The artwork is vibrant and inviting.  The colors are modern and make the ancient world come to life. Gallion turns a science lesson into an adventure.  Each time a child unfolds this board book, there will be an "aha" moment where they realize just how big and ancient our world really is.  Our Prehistoric Planet: Dinosaurs and Other Creatures of the Past will be a perfect addition to any unit on dinosaurs. 

S. Lewis

What About an Elephant? A Fact-Filled Savannah Adventure by Deborah Kerbel and Dawn Lo - ADVISABLE

What About an Elephant? A Fact-Filled Savannah Adventure by Deborah Kerbel, illustrated by Dawn Lo. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Owlkids Books, 2025. $19. 9781771476188

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

A young girl takes us on safari to see elephants.  She reminds us that we will want to bring a camera and a water bottle.  We observe an elephant eating, and then jumping in a  watering hole. The young girl also jumps in and they play hide and seek. We learn much about elephants including how they keep cool, how they love to play and swim, how much they weigh, how much they poop, and many other interesting facts.

Kerbel takes us on an informal delightful wildlife adventure through the eyes of a young girl with fun-to-read sidebars of fascinating facts about elephants.  I enjoyed the warm, colorful illustrations of the playful savanna expedition. 

PGPowers

World's Best Mom by Isabel Otter, illustrated by Lynn Giunta - ESSENTIAL

World's Best Mom by Isabel Otter, illustrated by Lynn Giunta. BOARD BOOK. Penguin Young Readers Group, 2026. $13. 9798217143207

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

This amazing pop-up book is a soft, rhythmic tribute to the quiet moments that build a relationship between Mom and child. Unlike books that focus on grand adventures, Otter focuses on the intimacy of the everyday. It highlights patience, creativity, and the invisible work of making a home feel like a sanctuary.

World’s Best Mom reminds all moms that motherhood doesn’t demand perfection. This book celebrates the mom who is best simply because she is there—the one who listens to the long stories, fixes the scraped knees, and offers the safest lap in the world. It’s a poignant reminder that while we often worry about doing enough for our children, to them, our ordinary presence is their entire world. Colors are bright and bold with fun pop-up illustrations that will excite little ones and parents alike. 

S. Lewis

World's Best Dad by Isabel Otter and Lynn Giunta - ESSENTIAL

World's Best Dad by Isabel Otter, illustrated by Lynn Giunta. BOARD BOOK. Penguin Young Readers Group, 2026. $13. 9798217143238

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

World's Best Dad follows a series of relatable, small-scale moments that define a father-child relationship. From the fixing of broken toys to the bravery required to check for monsters under the bed, Otter captures the multifaceted role of a modern dad. The illustrations are detailed and fun. 

World’s Best Dad feels like a long-overdue thank you for the subtle magic of fatherhood. It reminds us that being the best isn't about being perfect or heroic in a grand sense; it’s about the consistency of showing up. It’s a beautifully tender mirror for any father trying his best.

S. Lewis

The Language of Birds by Jon-Eric Lappano and Zach Manbeck - ADVISABLE

Language of Birds by Jon-Eric Lappano, illustrated by Zach Manbeck. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Studio, 2025. $19. 9780593806654

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Mira had always loved birds since she was very young.  She could mimic their sounds and behaviors.  Mira had a special gift with birds, but she was anxious and confused when dealing with people.  She was mostly left alone by the kids at school.  One day a new boy named Jad arrived at school.  He was different too.  He connected with trees like Mira did with birds.  At recess, Jad made trees with chalk on the pavement.  Mira wanted to say hello, but her words scattered away.  Can Mira find a way to be friends with Jad?

The Language of Birds gently explores connection, and finding friendship in unexpected ways.  I liked Manbeck's fresh, modern vintage illustrations.

PGPowers

A Family of Readers by Rob Sanders and Gabbie Benda- OPTIONAL

A Family of Readers by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Gabbie Benda. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2026. $18. 9781623546472

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

One sunny day at the local library, a family of readers rushed in the front door to read, enjoy, search, and explore.  In the library, a group of older men were reading the news, while other kinds of bookworms were reading in nooks.

A Family of Readers embraces libraries as powerful, welcoming spaces for learning and community.  Unfortunately,  it was a little boring, even though they tried to have things happening in the library that wouldn't really happen such as breadmaking.  Benda's illustrations were cute. There is an illustration of a boy dressing like a girl throughout the book.

PGPowers

Reach In! by Hervé Tullet - ESSENTIAL

Reach In! by Hervé Tullet. BOARD BOOK. Chronicle Books, 2026. $19. 9781797237817

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

True to its title, the book encourages children to literally poke their fingers, hands, and even their faces into the pages. It breaks the don't touch rule of traditional literature. Tullet introduces children to the power of a simple dot or a wiggly line. He proves that you don't need a complex plot to tell a story; sometimes, the story is simply the relationship between a blue circle and a yellow hole.

Reach In! is the ultimate antidote to screen time. It provides that same instant, high-contrast feedback that a tablet does, but it requires the child to use their fine motor skills and spatial awareness to make the magic happen. It’s not a book that says, "Sit still and listen"; it’s a book that says, "Come and help me finish this!" It makes the reader the most important part of the experience.

S. Lewis

If You Went to the Bottom of the Ocean by Brook McIntyre and Gordy Wright - ADVISABLE

If You Went to the Bottom of the Ocean by Brook McIntyre, illustrated by Gordy Wright. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Chronicle Books, 2026. $20. 9781797226514

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Take a dive to the bottom of the ocean in a submarine.  What creatures would you see as you descend lower and lower?  What can live at the very bottom of the ocean?  Learn these things and more by reading If You Went to the Bottom of the Ocean.

McIntyre cleverly teaches students about ocean creatures.  She takes you along as the submarine dives lower and lower.  Wright’s illustrations are fairly realistic but very interesting.  The text is not overly long on each page.  Most pages also have an I Spy portion that students would enjoy.  Would make a fun read aloud!

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian

The House That Floated by Goujing - ADVISABLE

The House That Floated by Goujing. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2025. $19. 9780593709054

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

On a cliff overlooking the sea sits a little red house where a family lives and grows.  The family spends their days exploring the ocean, saving dolphins caught in nets, and carving fish out of wood.  One day the ocean rises, and huge storm waves lap at the house.  What can the family do to save their home?

The House That Floated is an interesting wordless picture book with themes of love, resilience, and adaptation to environmental change.  The illustrations are soft, expressive, and beautiful.

PGPowers

Let's Play Baseball! by Jo Parker and Ahra Kwon - ADVISABLE

Let's Play Baseball!: A Touch-and-Feel Book by Jo Parker, illustrated by Ahra Kwon. BOARD BOOK. Penguin Young Readers Group, 2026. $10. 9798217049127

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

What happens at a baseball game? This sturdy, interactive board book will take you through the excitement of the crowd, the action on the field, and the love of the game.  Readers can run their fingers over the raised red stitching of a baseball, feel the smooth, cool wood of the bat, and tough the rough, pebbled surface of a fielder's glove.  

The sensory actions help toddlers connect words to physical objects.  Kwon’s illustrations are bright and intentionally simple.  This is a great first sports book.  By letting kids touch the game, the book turns a complex professional sport into something intimate and manageable. This is the perfect gift for any baseball loving family. 

S. Lewis