Even though I can’t go to the library at the moment, I’ve been busy compiling my list of books that I can’t wait to check out once libraries are open again.
I’ve been reading articles, taking webinars, and following publishers, authors, and illustrators to keep on top of the best books for kids and below are the books I’m excited to share with my family.
When Grandpa Gives You a Toolbox by Jamie L.B. Deenihan; illustrated by Lorraine Rocha
When Grandma Gives You a Lemon Tree was hands down one of my favorite books of 2019, so there is no way I am going to pass up sharing the companion book with my kids. A boy is initially disappointed in the toolbox he receives as a gift from his grandfather, until he discovers he can use it to make exactly what he wants.
The Three Billy Goats Buenos by Susan Middleton Elya and Miguel Ordóñez
A comical bilingual retelling of The Three Billy Goats Gruff? Yes please!
Don’t Worry, Little Crab by Chris Haughton
Ever since reading Shh! We Have a Plan, our family has been a big fan of Chris Haughton’s quirky sense of humor and unique illustrations. When I saw that he has a new book featuring a crab working to overcome a moment of anxiety, I knew I had to have it.
Mabel: a Mermaid Fable by Rowboat Watkins
We are always looking for new mermaid stories and one about a mermaid with a mustache just sounds too good to pass up. Throw in a message about being yourself and this is a must-have for our family.
Sorry (Really Sorry) by Joanna Cotler; illustrated by Harry Bliss
When a cow steps in mud, her bad mood causes a chain reaction that spreads throughout the farm. When a sincere apology is made, however, acts of kindness are shared uplifting everyone’s moods. This looks absolutely charming and sounds like a story that will resonate with many!
Can I Play Too? (Little Senses series) by Samantha Cotterill
I am loving Samantha Cotterill’s new Little Senses series featuring children with sensory sensitivities. These beautifully illustrated books use sparse text to allow readers to either see aspects of themselves or gain insight into how others might feel during different experiences. I can’t wait to check out the newest installment that focuses on friendship!
I Can Be Anything by Shinsuke Yoshitake
Still Stuck by Shinsuke Yoshitake had both my children and me laughing out loud, so naturally I want to read his latest book featuring a spirited toddler who invents a new bedtime game.
Mrs. Bibi’s Elephant by Reza Dalvand
I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but this one looks so gorgeous I was immediately drawn to it. When I found out it is a tender story about acceptance and tolerance, I became even more excited to read it.
One Little Bag: An Amazing Journey by Henry Cole
I am always in awe of Henry Cole’s incredible pen and ink drawings and the way he effortlessly teaches children about science through his stories. One Little Bag follows one paper bag’s surprising journey from creation to its many uses as it is recycled time and time again.
Ronan the Librarian by Tara Luebbe; illustrated by Becky Cattie
When a mighty warrior discovers books, he tries to share his passion with the rest of his motley crew. A mighty barbarian who loves books sounds right up our alley. We can’t wait to read this one and find out if it is as funny as it sounds!
My Friend Earth by Patricia Maclachlan; illustrated by Francesca Sanna
This love letter to Earth looks absolutely stunning. I heard a lot of rave reviews about this one and can’t wait to share it with my family.
Be You! by Peter H. Reynolds
Every book that Peter Reynolds creates is absolute gold and I cannot wait to check out his newest one that celebrates individuality and staying true to yourself.
A is for Another Rabbit by Hannah Batsel
This humorous ABC book features a spunky narrator who rewrites the alphabetical descriptions to include attributes of a bunny. We are always looking for funny books and this sounds like one that will get my kids giggling.
Swing by Michael Hall
I am a huge fan of Michael Hall’s clever, touching, beautiful stories and can’t wait to read his newest book featuring a group of letters who find acceptance by being kind and sharing.
Coral by Molly Idle
Award-winning artist Molly Idle is well known for her dazzling illustrations that expertly capture movement. With themes of friendship and environmentalism, I’m excited for this new underwater tale starring three mermaids.
Unstoppable by Adam Rex; illustrated by Laura Park
If it involves New York Times best-selling author and illustrator Adam Rex, you know it’s probably going to be awesome. When a group of forest animals decide to join together, they form one unstoppable creature who fights to save their lake from being turned into a shopping mall. With humor and a message of teamwork, I know this is one my kids won’t be able to resist.
The Fort by Laura Perdew; illustrated by Adelina Lirius
When two children unknowingly share a fort in a forest, their imaginative games suddenly collide causing friction. I’ve heard great things about this one and I’m hoping it will prompt a good discussion on sharing and collaboration with my kids.
Things That Go Away by Beatrice Alemagna
Though many things in life are temporary, this artistic book reassures children that love is permanent. I’m looking forward to seeing if this one will be good for children with anxiety.
Llama Unleashes the Alpacalypse by Jonathon Stutzman
Llama Destroys the World was one of our family’s favorite books of 2019, so naturally we cannot wait to check out the sequel! In this silly story, a llama clones his friend Alpaca to help him clean up his mess. Hilarious hijinks ensue and the fate of the world is threatened.
Knot Cannot by Tiffany Stone; illustrated by Mike Lowery
Full of wordplay and a message about celebrating one’s unique talents, this looks like an entertaining and sweet read aloud.
What About Worms!? (Elephant and Piggie Like Reading series) by Ryan T. Higgins and Mo Willems
My little reader loves the Elephant and Piggie Like Reading series, so I pre-ordered this one. This series written by various authors continues the humor and charm found in the Elephant and Piggie books. In the newest installment, a brave tiger faces his fear of worms with comical results.
A Whale of a Mistake by Ioana Hobai
I often get requests from parents asking for books focusing on making mistakes, so I’m looking forward to reading this one to see if it could help children who struggle with perfectionism.
I Found a Kitty by Troy Cummings
My children loved Can I Be Your Dog, so we are very interested in the sequel where a sweet dog helps a kitty find his forever home.
That’s Life by Ame Dyckman; illustrated by Cori Doerrfeld
This quirky book about life’s ups and downs sounds like it could be a great graduation gift.
Pitter Pattern by Joyce Hesselberth
Lu and her friends spot patterns all around them including music, weather, time, play, shapes, nature, math, and language. Since I’m currently working with my daughter on patterns, I’m hoping this will be a fun book to help reinforce this important math skill.
Pizza and Taco: Who’s the Best? by Stephen Shaskan
My little reluctant reader cannot resist the draw of a silly story, so I’m excited to introduce him to two new funny characters in this easy reader graphic novel.
I’m always on the lookout for new books! Please comment below with any that you are looking forward to reading!
