The 2025 100 Picture Book List

Duck Duck Taco Truck by Laura Lavoie, illustrated by Teresa Martinez
When two ducks have a dream to buy a boat, they set up a food truck to make their dreams a reality. The problem? Goose sets up a rival food truck and is taking all of their paying customers! Will the ducks ever get their boat? I especially loved the ending of this fun rhyming book.

That Always Happens Sometimes by Kiley Frank, illustrated by K-Fai Steele
Max is an energetic kid who gets easily distracted, whether it’s by the sound of water sloshing in his stomach or tennis balls on his chair legs. In this sweet and funny picture book, Max’s misadventures show both the challenges and the charm of being a spirited, creative child.

Everyone Loves Career Day But Zia by Jenny Liao, illustrated by Dream Chen
Career Day is coming up in Zia’s class…but she might be the only one in class that isn’t excited about it. Her mom is a seamstress, and she knows she won’t be able to come because she won’t get the day off of work and she doesn’t speak much English. When Zia and her mom devise a special plan, it might end up being the best career day ever!

Ruby’s Tools for Making Friends by Apryl Stott
Ruby is nervous about her first day at a new school – but that doesn’t stop her because she has an entire bag of tools to help her! You might think a tape measure, pliers, and goggles might seem like silly tools to help nerves, but Ruby uses them in a way to become her best self. Will she be able to use them to make new friends and get through a class project that isn’t going her way?

Bubble Gum Bison Needs a Bath by Scott Rothman, illustrated by Pete Oswald
If there is on thing Bubble Gum Bison does not want to do…it’s take a bath. But when she gets covered in mud and bird feathers and decides she needs one, the water won’t turn on! Will Bubble Gum Bison be able to find a solution so she can finally take a bath?

The Mochi Makers by Sharon Fujimoto-Johnson
I am so ready to make a batch of mochi with my girls after reading this one about a grandmother teaching her granddaughter how to make mochi (a recipe is also included at the back).

Unicorns are the Worst! by Alex Willan
Little Goblin is bitter about his new neighbors that move in next door…UNICORNS! Goblins take their magic very seriously, while all unicorns do is frolic, have tea parties, and spread glitter EVERYWHERE! (I can attest personally…the glitter complaint is real.) But when something very dangerous happens, Goblin finds out unicorns might be more helpful than he thought. Don’t miss the other books in this silly series including Dragons are the Worst!

The Blue Canoe by Sheryl McFarlane, illustrated by Laurel Aylesworth
This sweet book shares a mother and daughter’s day out on the lake in their blue canoe – all while discussing how things might be different when a new baby joins the family.

Tricky Chopsticks by Sylvia Chen, illustrated by Fanny Liem
Jenny Chow is determined to master the tricky art of using chopsticks before her family’s annual chopsticks challenge at cousin Victor’s birthday. She refuses to be the only Chow who can’t keep up with tradition, no matter how many fumbles it takes. With creativity and perseverance, Jenny is ready to prove she’s up to the task!

Plus One by John Hare
Agnes, new to town, invites some girls from her class to a fancy tea party, but instead of her guests, Dave from next door shows up with a series of unexpected plus-ones: including a goose, a cactus, and even his mom. Despite her initial frustration, Agnes eventually realizes that sometimes the best parties are the ones you least expect. When her original guests arrive, everyone is invited inside for tea, no matter who or what they are.

One More Jar of Jam by Michelle Sumovich, illustrated by Gracey Zhang
Every summer I always make a ton of berry jam, so I can completely relate to this picture book about one mulberry tree and it’s wonderful life. This one reminds me a lot of The Giving Tree!

Have You Seen My Invisible Dinosaur? by Helen Yoon
I really love everything that Helen Yoon creates. In this cute picture book, a little girl has lost her best friend, a huge, friendly dinosaur, after giving him a bath. Despite her efforts to find him, he’s nowhere to be seen…or is he?

Gifts from the Garbage Truck by Andrew Larsen, illustrated by Oriol Vidal
I always love a picture book that is based on real-life events and people – and this one really made me think about my habits around trash. It is all about Nelson, a former NYC sanitation worker (garbage man) and how he finds so many treasures in the trash that people just throw away – and what he decides to do with it instead.

The Quest for a Tangram Dragon by Christine Liu-Perkins, illustrated by Lynn Scurfield
This book is SO MUCH FUN! And would be perfect for teaching shapes. Little triangle is on the search for a dragon to bring water to their dry landscape and along the way meets all kinds of other shapes. When those shapes get together, they create just what they need.

Found by Sam Usher
When a little boy and his grandad prepare for a fun outing at the beach they hope to build a sandcastle, go tide-pooling, swim in the ocean, have ice cream, and even find pirate treasure. But when they find something unexpected on the shore, they have an adventure they never thought possible.

The Yowlers by Stacy Lynn Carroll, illustrated by Molly Ruttan
I thought this book about how kindness can spread and be contagious was so cute! If there is one word that describes the Yowler family, it is GRUMPY. Everything makes them grumpy! But when the Nicely family moves in next door and greets them with a smile, things start to slowly change in the Yowler household…for the better.

Millie Fleur’s Poison Garden by Christy Mandin
Garden Glen is a dull town where every house and garden looks the same – until Millie Fleur La Fae arrives and plants her wonderfully strange garden. Despite the townspeople’s complaints (and calling it poison), Millie Fleur embraces her unique garden and sets out to find those who truly appreciate its quirky beauty.

Hope Is the Thing with Feathers by Emily Dickinson, illustrated by Tim Hopgood
When we started homeschooling again, one area that I really wanted to focus on was poetry. This picture book is a gorgeously illustrated version of Emily Dickinson’s poem, “Hope Is the Thing with Feathers.” Perfect for poetry study, or just to read.

What Can a Mess Make? by Bee Johnson
If you are a parent, or a child, you will 100% relate to this book about two sisters who spend their entire day playing inside – leaving all kinds of messes in their wake. But their messes shouldn’t be viewed as terrible, but as all the fun and possibilities of the day.

Pizza for Birds by Bob Shea
This is the silly sequel to Chez Bob (which is about Bob who runs a restaurant that caters to all the hungry birds around). But in this installment Bob has some new competition from another fun alligator…pizza chef Ryan. This is just the sort of shenanigans you’d expect from Shea. 

Read the Book, Lemmings! by Ame Dyckman, illustrated by Zachariah OHora
When Foxy reads a book and learns that lemmings jumping off cliffs is a myth, he is baffled when three cute little lemmings proceed to jump off a cliff! He saves them, and demands that they read his book so they know they are NOT supposed to be jumping off cliffs. But when they keep jumping, he take matters into his own hands. This one is such silly fun!

You are Not Sleepy by Mark Teague
Sometimes you just aren’t sleepy when naptime rolls around, and that is the case for pig. He does EVERYTHING to try and get to sleep – dancing, turning off the lights, getting a drink of water, but none of it works. Will he find something that will put him to sleep? I also can’t get over Mark Teague’s recognizable and beloved illustrations in this one!

Amy Wu and the Lantern Festival by Kat Zhang, illustrated by Charlene Chua
This is the perfect book to read for Chinese New Year! Amy Wu loves Lantern Festival and the thing she loves most is their special lantern that makes her think of her grandmother. But when Amy Wu accidentally crushes the lantern, will the Festival be ruined forever? The back of the book also teaches you how to make your own homemade lantern!

Robots Don’t Make You Go to Bed by Laurel Gale, illustrated by Susanna Covelli
Owen wants things to go just his way and is upset when his mother doesn’t oblige – he doesn’t want to go to bed, he wants ice cream for breakfast, and he doesn’t want to clean up his toys. He has the brilliant idea that a robot will let him and help him do all of this. But it doesn’t take long for him to realize, it may not be as fun as he thought.

No More Señora Mimí by Meg Medina, illustrated by Brittany Cicchese
Ana’s abuela is moving in with her and her mami, and she couldn’t be more excited! And now abuela will be able to take care of her instead of her babysitter, Señora Mimí. But the idea of no longer seeing Señora Mimí makes her abuela’s arrival bittersweet.

When You Find the Right Rock by Mary Lyn Ray, illustrated by Felicita Sala
This book is perfect for those little ones who love collecting rocks. The world is full of all kinds of rocks and you just never know when you will find the right one!

The Bakery Dragon by Devin Elle Kurtz
Ember, a small, cute, and a not-so-fearsome dragon, worries he’ll never amass a proper hoard of gold until a chance encounter with a baker changes his fate. And he soon learns the most important lesson: earning and sharing gold is far more rewarding than stealing it.

Little Monster Says Goodnight by David Slonim
This is a great bedtime story option especially for your youngest readers (it is nice short) and will have them giggling about all the silly things monsters need and do to get ready for bed.

With Dad by Richard Jackson, illustrated by Brian Floca
While his dad is off to war, a young boy remembers all of the fun times he had with his dad camping and fishing. This one is sentimental and would be the perfect read for Father’s Day.

When Alexander Graced the Table by Alexander B. Smalls and Denene Millner, illustrated by Frank Morrison
Written by a James Beard Award-winning chef, Alexander shares his memory of his favorite family tradition, Sunday Dinner and the first time he made his own dish for the big event!

Big Bear and Little Bear Go Fishing by Amy Hest, illustrated by Erin E. Stead
Big Bear and Little Bear are ready to go fishing, but before they can embark they must get everything ready! You might even question how much fishing will even get done. This story is so sweet and feels like a classic.

To See an Owl by Matthew Cordell
Janie LOVES owls and her biggest dream is to actually see one! But just when she is about to give up all hope, her teacher, a fellow owl enthusiast, gives her the hope to not give up on this elusive creature.

Mama Seeton’s Whistle by Jerry Spinelli
This one is a heartwarming story about a mother’s special whistle that always calls her children home for hugs, chocolate cake, and memories. As they grow up and move far away, you’ll be holding your breath to see if that whistle still works its magic.

Dear Duck, Please Come! by Sarah Mackenzie
When Duck receives a letter from Rabbit that he lost his first tooth, Duck is in a panic looking all over the forest for it. Silly Duck! This is such an adorable book for kids at the age of losing their first tooth!

Saturday Morning at the ‘Shop by Keenan Jones, illustrated by Ken Daley
A Saturday morning at the barbershop is not just about haircuts…it’s about community! And this barbershop isn’t your typical barbershop, it is a sound booth, an art gallery, a playground, a classroom, and more. I love that this book is brimming with joy!

Golden Gate: Building the Mighty Bridge by Elizabeth Partridge, illustrated by Ellen Heck
I learned so much about the Golden Gate Bridge after reading this nonfiction picture book! Two young kids are right in the action as work begins on the Golden Gate Bridge and they cross their fingers and hope as engineers and workers build the impossible. Throughout the entire book there is an ongoing diagram of the stages of the bridge as it is built – which I found so incredibly helpful.

Fanny’s Dream by Caralyn Buehner
I know this book has been around for a while, but I knew I couldn’t have a picture book list without it! All Fanny dreamed of was to marry a prince with the help of her fairy godmother…but things don’t quite go as planned. Maybe for the better.

The Yellow Bus by Loren Long
I didn’t know I would get so emotional over a bright yellow bus, but this one that follows the life of a school bus (who always finds joy in its surroundings) is fantastic! I also love Loren Long’s recognizable illustrations – especially since it is all black-and-white with a pop of bright yellow!

Winter Solstice Wish by Kate Allen Fox, illustrated by Elisa Paganelli
The winter solstice may be the darkest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, but this picture book is a celebration of light, hope, and togetherness. It ends with a beautiful beach bonfire (which was inspired by the winter solstice beach bonfires built near the author’s home in San Diego.) and highlights other winter solstice celebrations around the world.

Be Careful, Xiao Xin! by Alice Pung, illustrated by Sher Rill Ng
“Be careful,” is one of those phrases that kids are bound to hear a lot! Xiao Xin, is a brave Fire Warrior ready to take on the world. But will his parents trust him enough to let him have a little independence?

Lily’s Dream by Bea Jackson
Lily is a tiny fairy and her only dream is to be able to fly like the other fairies. When she stumbles upon a fairy house and a human girl, her dreams might be closer than she realizes.

Evidence! How Dr. John Snow Solved the Mystery of Cholera by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Nik Henderson
This true story follows Dr. John Snow, a curious and determined doctor in 19th-century London who set out to solve the deadly mystery of a cholera outbreak. Acting like a detective, he knocked on doors, gathered clues, and challenged popular beliefs—ultimately changing the course of public health forever.

Home in a Lunchbox by Mo Cherry
This one just won a Caldecott Honor Award this year and it’s very deserving of it – the illustrations are stunning! When Jun moves from Hong Kong to America, everything feels strange and scary. But her favorite lunchbox foods remind her that home is never too far away.

Touch the Sky by Stephanie V. W. Lucianovic, illustrated by Chris Park
Vern just wants to be one of those kids who swing so high their toes practically touch the sky – but no matter how hard he tries, he can’t quite get there. Enter Gretchen: sassy, funny, and full of wisdom, she’s exactly the boost Vern needs to finally take off and soar.

Umami by Jacob Grant
A penguin named Umami…I couldn’t help myself (and this book is as cute and fun as you could imagine). Umami was getting bored of cold fish for EVERY SINGLE meal, so she sets off on an adventure to find other flavors. And when she does, she brings them back for everyone else to try too!

Built to Last by Minh Lê, illustrated by Dan Santat 
I love this imaginatively illustrated picture book about the ingenuity and friendship of two boys.

Aqua Boy by Ken Wilson-Max
Aaron loves the ocean but is afraid to put his head underwater, unlike the rest of his family who are Ocean Guardians. When he helps rescue a stranded octopus during a beach cleanup, his empathy gives him the courage to dive in and follow it beneath the waves, taking his first step toward his dream.

Painting Wonder: How Pauline Baynes Illustrated the Worlds of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien by Katie Wray Schon
If you have ever read The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe or any of J.R.R Tolkien’s works – this book tells the enchanting story of Pauline Baynes, the talented artist who brought the worlds of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien to life. From her vibrant childhood in India to illustrating iconic stories, this book celebrates her art and imagination.

Nellie’s Big Splash by Cori Doerrfeld
Nellie the sea turtle is too scared to follow her siblings into the loud, deep ocean and chooses to stay on the safe, dry sand. But as night falls, she discovers that beyond the crashing waves lies an exciting world waiting to be explored.

The Baby Who Stayed Awake Forever by Sandra Salsbury
I was in a fit of laughter while reading this picture book – and if you’ve ever had a baby who was a less than perfect sleeper, you will appreciate it too! As you can guess by the title, this picture book follows the LONG night of a baby who refuses to sleep.

The Teeny-Weeny Unicorn by Shawn Harris
Teeny-Weeny Unicorn is so very small, and is always too small to do anything! So one day when he runs away and runs into a tiny gnome – he finds out he might not be so small after all.

Time to Make Art by Jeff Mack
I really loved this book ALL ABOUT art! When a little girl asks all the important questions about what makes art, art…she is answered by some of the most famous artists of our time.

At Night, They Danced by Victoria Scott-Miller, illustrated by Toni D. Chambers
Langston and Emerson are ready for date night – it means slime, pizza, and their favorite babysitter. But when their parents decide to have date night at home instead, the boys launch an investigation… and uncover something surprisingly sweet.

There’s Nothing Faster Than a Cheetah by Tom Nicoll, illustrated by Ross Collins
This one was too silly not to love! Let the race of all races commence: cheetah vs. all sorts of crazy animals trying to outrun her. There are alliterations galore and an ending you won’t believe!

Leena Mo, CEO by Deena Shakir, illustrated by Nez Riaz
Boy, did this one spark some ideas in my girls’ heads – in a good way! Leena Mo would much rather invent things than shovel snow, so she builds a robot to do it for her. When her clever creation wows the neighbors, her snow day solution quickly snowballs into a full-blown business! I loved the innovation and entrepreneurship in this one.

The Jade Bracelet by Hà Dinh, illustrated by Yong Ling Kang
When all the girls at school show off their sparkly new bracelets, Tien hides the simple jade bangle her mother gave her, a gift rich with Vietnamese heritage and love. But just as she’s about to trade it in to fit in, Tien remembers where she comes from… and chooses to wear her jade bracelet with pride.

Rosemary Long Ears by Susie Ghahremani
I knew I wanted to read this one, just by seeing the cover! Rosemary the pup is ready for adventure. And, with ears as long as hers, it’s no surprise she finds a little mess along the way!

Eloísa’s Musical Window by Margarita Engle, illustrated by John Parra
Eloísa can’t afford a radio, but lucky for her, music is everywhere -from singing birds to drumming neighbors and kids jamming in the street. But when Mamá gets sick and money’s tight, Eloísa hopes the music she loves so much can bring the comfort her family needs most.

Beansprout by Sarah Lynne Reul
It’s planting day in Ms. Greene’s class, and one student is sure their mystery seed will be amazing…until it doesn’t grow. This sweet and thoughtful picture book explores disappointment, big feelings, and the beauty of second chances (with a little help from friends and a whole lot of heart).

Silli’s Sheep by Tiffany Stone, illustrated by Louis Thomas
This one was just so silly and sweet, I loved it! When Silli finds himself chilly on a mountain, he decides the best fix is to find some sheep… to get wool… to make yarn… to knit a sweater. But what he stumbles upon aren’t exactly sheep – and that’s where the fun begins!

One Light by Christie Matheson, illustrated by Anuska Allepuz
I will always love a book about a kindness chain reaction! On a dark and lonely night, Mouse wonders if anyone else feels the same…so she lights one small light. What follows is a quiet, magical chain of kindness and shows how even the tiniest spark can brighten the world.

In the Winter Woods by Daniela Kulot
If you are looking for a book about sharing, this is a wonderful option! Winter’s arrived, and Fox, Mouse, and Raven are hungry – too bad Squirrel isn’t exactly eager to share his secret stash. But when Squirrel forgets where he hid it, the animals work together to fill up their empty bellies.

Billie and Bean in the Mountains by Julia Hansson, illustrated by B.J. Woodstein
Billie isn’t thrilled about skiing lessons, so she and her dog Bean make their own fun on the snowy slopes. But when a sudden scare leaves her alone and cold, will Billie find the courage to find her way out?

Sundays Are for Feasts by Leila Boukarim, illustrated by Ruaida Mannaa
Every summer, Yasmine helps make Sunday lunch with her family in Lebanon, and this time she’s in charge of the hummus – though it turns out to be trickier than she expected! I love the family tradition and the joy of making your own special recipes in this one (plus it includes a hummus recipe!).

The Spoon by Sandra Siemens, illustrated by Bea Lozano
A little girl, tired of being nagged about putting away a family heirloom spoon, wonders…what’s the point of a spoon if it’s just hidden away and not being used? She dreams of digging in the dirt and making music with it, giving new life to something passed down through generations.

A Roof! by Stephanie Ellen Sy, illustrated by Daniel Tingcungco
After a powerful typhoon tears through her village, a young girl discovers a roof in her yard. Determined to return it, she sets off on a journey that takes her farther than she’s ever gone before. Along the way, communities come together to rebuild what was lost. In a country like the Philippines, one of the most disaster-prone places on Earth, hope and resilience are in no short supply.

Still There Was Bread by Lisl H. Detlefsen, illustrated by David Soman
I loved that this book includes a recipe at the back – there’s just something magical about baking with family! In this story, Nana visits to teach Little Pickle her famous “Nana rolls,” a special bread recipe passed down through generations. As they mix the dough, Nana shares heartfelt stories about how this simple recipe has brought their family together through both good times and challenges.

Party Animals by Tara Lazar, illustrated by Anna Raff
What happens when a crew of wild party animals (the kind who’ll celebrate anything, even sour milk!) meets a total party pooper? You get a laugh-out-loud, delightfully silly story with a sweet message about finding joy in everyday moments, and the magic of knowing when to hit pause parties feel extra special.

The House Before Falling Into the Sea by Ann Suk Wang, illustrated by Hanna Cha
During the Korean War, Kyung Tak’s family opens their home to refugees, turning their once-quiet house into a crowded place of last refuge. As Kyung struggles with the changes, she comes to understand that caring for others in difficult times makes everyone stronger.

Olu’s Teacher by Jamel C. Campbell, illustrated by Lydia Mba
Starting preschool is a BIG transition, and this sweet book is the perfect companion for easing those first-day nerves. When Olu’s imagination starts to run wild (think fire-breathing teachers!), he is quickly reassured that teachers are simply friendly guides to help us explore the world.

I See You, Sad Bear by Vern Kousky
When Little Bear is sad, a friend tries to find out the reason, so he can cheer him up. But what I love most about this picture book, is that it shares the sentiment that sometimes it’s okay to be sad, just to be sad.

Our Pebbles by Jarvis
This one comes out on June 10th, but is completely worth the short wait! Grandad and his grandchild have a special tradition at Pebble Beach – they explore dunes, meet seals, and collect pebbles. This one is all about making memories with loved ones.

Fridays Are for Churros by Jenny Alvarado
When Emi and her Papi move to a new city, Emi is determined to keep their Friday churro tradition alive…even if Papi’s too busy to help. With a little neighborhood teamwork and lots of heart, she turns her new apartment into a warm, delicious gathering spot full of friends and fresh churros.

Time Runs Like a River by Emma Carlisle
This one was a beautiful reminder for me about time – in the most naturalistic ways! Time flows like a river – sometimes fast, sometimes slow. In a very poetic way it also helps remind us to appreciate every moment before it slips away – no matter how big or small.

The Day We Got Lost by Faith Pray
We LOVE hiking in our family – and it’s safe to say this book was a huge hit, because we could totally relate! This one follows a family’s woodland wander as they find out that sometimes the best part of a hike isn’t the destination…it’s getting a little lost together.

The Three-Year Tumble by Dayeon Auh, illustrated by Tim Mohr
This clever twist on a traditional Korean folktale follows a superstitious grandfather who believes he’s doomed after falling down Misfortune Mountain, until his quick-witted granddaughter reinterprets the legend with a fresh perspective. It’s a playful and wise story about how shifting your mindset can change everything.

María Mariposa by Karla Arenas Valenti, illustrated by Ana Ramírez González
On her first day in a new country, María Mariposa is visited by a butterfly, and with it, a flicker of magic from home. But can that magic help her stay true to herself in a world that suddenly feels so unfamiliar?

Hazel the Handful by Jamie Michalak, illustrated by Matt Myers
Hazel the pup is living her best, pampered life with her girl Bea -snacks, naps, stroller rides, you name it! But when a new baby shows up and suddenly, she’s not the center of the universe anymore, Hazel runs off in protest. After a frantic search, Hazel is reminded that there is always room for more love.

The Biggest, Highest Wave by Kerry McQuaide
This lively, rhyming picture book follows a brave young surfer girl as she conquers the massive waves of Nazaré, Portugal. Plus, I love the vertical format of the book because it really shows just how huge those waves are!

Ready to Smile Again by Katie Lee Reinert, illustrated by Sara Aziz
When Dexter the chipmunk loses his home, he packs all his precious belongings into his cheeks to keep them safe. But with his mouth full, he can’t smile or thank the kind animals who supported him when he needed it most – will he finally open up again?

Wild Greens, Beautiful Girl by Erica Lee Schlaikjer, illustrated by Cinyee Chiu
In this sweet bilingual book, a little girl and her mother go out to their wild garden in Taiwan and harvest greens before the big monsoons. All the while keeping the tradition of language and gardening alive.

Sunny Wants to Play by Katty Maurey
Sunny is the only kid in a big, sleepy household who just wants someone to play with! When she finally gets a chance to play with other kids, the neighborhood chaos makes her rethink things. Sunny steps out her comfort zone to play and discovers that a quiet house full of adults can also be kind of wonderful.

The Watering Can by Julien Baer, illustrated by Marie Dorleans
Who knew a simple watering can could be so MAGICAL!? Nina’s everyday find sparks a whimsical adventure that celebrates creativity and recycling, inspiring kids to see the magic hidden in the most ordinary things.

Hurricane by Jason Chin
If there is anyone who knows how to do nonfiction picture books, it’s Caldecott Medalist, Jason Chin. In this one, Chin has you preparing for a hurricane on Hatteras Island, North Carolina. He dives into every detail of hurricanes, the scientists involved, the timelines, and more! Plus it is packed with diagrams and visuals accompanying each page to dive deeper into the science behind it all.

See This Little Dot by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Laëtitia Devernay
The illustrations on this one are INCREDIBLE – completely made of cut paper! It shows that a dot, isn’t just a dot – it can take the shape of so many things!

In the Groves by Andrea Cruz Floren
Every year, Clara hears wild stories about her Abuelo’s magical orange groves but has never been herself…until now. Sneaking away to explore, she shares a magical day filled with adventure, family, tacos, and memory making all her own.

Copydog by Zacharian Ohora
Having siblings can be hard, but this sweet and funny story perfectly captures the highs and lows of sibling life. Elise loves her little sister, and they mostly get along, except when Rosemont copies everything she does!

Shark at Sister Tea by Barbara Joosse, illustrated by Sergio Ruzzier
This playful seaside tale follows two sisters whose fancy garden tea party takes a wild turn when a sneaky, cake-gobbling shark shows up in disguise. With quick thinking and a dash of magic, Sadie and Flora prove that being little doesn’t mean you can’t be brave!

George & Lenny are Always Together by Jon Agee
This silly and sweet story had me and my girls laughing and nodding through the whole thing! George and Lenny are the best of friends…until one day, George decides he needs a little alone time. This one is all about friendship, boundaries, and missing your buddy!

My Book and Me by Linda Sue Park, illustrated by Chris Raschka
I am a huge fan of Linda Sue Park and she doesn’t disappoint in this picture book for kids that is all about kids and their immense love for books and reading.

The Crayon Stub by Marcus Cutler
Big Cat is ready to create a masterpiece and become world famous – if only the crayons (and Little Cat) would cooperate! This one is hilarious and oh-so-relatable because it shows the highs and lows of creativity, sibling chaos, and finding inspiration in unexpected places.

While You’re Asleep by Emmy Kastner
If you are looking for a silly and hilarious bedtime book – this is it! This picture book turns bedtime on its head as a frustrated narrator tries (and fails) to lull readers to sleep…while nocturnal animals throw an all-night party! Playful interruptions and nighttime mischief, this one has it all!

Where Are You, Brontë? by Tomie dePaola, illustrated by Barbara McClintock
If you’ve ever had a dog or experienced the loss of one, this heartfelt book by beloved author Tomie dePaola (creator of Strega Nona) beautifully shares his story of saying goodbye to his loyal companion, Brontë. It’s a tender reminder that love and memories keep our furry friends alive in our hearts forever.

A Festa for Luana by Joana Pastro, illustrated by Duda Oliva
Luana can’t wait to celebrate Brazil’s Festa Junina with her family, but once she’s there, she feels out of place with her American accent and plain clothes. With love and encouragement, she discovers that every part of her identity matters and that she truly belongs just as she is.

Elvis & Romeo by David Soman and Jacky Davis
I loved this little duo of pups! Elvis wants peace and quiet, Romeo wants to play. At first, these two pups couldn’t be more different, but as their paths keep crossing, this odd couple just might discover that friendship can come from the most unexpected places.

Abuelita’s Song by Gloria Amescua, illustrated by Mariyah Rahman
This charming story blends Spanish and English to celebrate the special lullaby that links a family through generations. I loved how the song passes from mother to son and then to his daughters, showing how music keeps family close no matter where life takes you.

Bear Feels Sad by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Jane Chapman
Karma Wilson’s Bear books are fan favorites, and this is her newest one! Bear feels lonely and bored while all his friends are busy, and even building a fort can’t cheer him up. But when he discovers a field of flowers, he gets a sweet idea to gather gifts and brighten everyone’s day when they return.

A Century for Caroline by Kaija Langley, illustrated by TeMika Grooms 
If this isn’t the sweetest book!? When little Jasmine visits Great Grandma Caroline for her 100th birthday, she’s curious how anyone could live so long. With gentle wisdom, Great Grandma Caroline shares that a long, meaningful life takes patience, determination, faith, and lots of love from family.