Notable Children's Books - 2026 -- UNDER CONSTRUCTION
According to ALSC policy, the current year's Newbery, Caldecott, Belpré, Sibert, Geisel, and Batchelder Award and Honor books automatically are added to the Notable Children's Books list.
According to the ALSC Notable Children’s Books Committee manual, these categories loosely represent the following: Younger Readers – Preschool-grade 2 (age 7), including easy-to-read books; Middle Readers – Grades 3-5, ages 8-10; Older Readers – Grades 6-8, ages 11-14; All Ages – Has appeal and interest for children in all of the above age ranges
FINAL LIST - to be vetted
This is the 2026 list of notable books for children, selected by the Notable Children's Books committee. The list is currently being vetted, and annotations for award books are being added. When the process is complete, the "to be vetted" designation will be removed.
YOUNGER
A-Ztec: A Bilingual Alphabet Book. By Emmanuel Valtierra. Illus. by the author. Levine Querido.
Alberto Salas Plays Paka Paka con la Papa: Join the Quest with Peru’s Famed Scientist and Potato Expert. By Sara Andrea Fajardo. Illus. by Juana Martinez-Neal. Roaring Brook Press.
Peruvian scientist Alberto Salas plays "potato hide-and-seek," collecting and conserving various potato varieties in the Andes Mountains to help farmers continue to grow potatoes in a climate-changing world. (Sibert Award Book)
Afloat. By Kirli Saunders. Illus. by Freya Blackwood. Levine Querido.
Told in sparse yet effective text, a community comes together and uses the Indigenous wisdom provided by an Elder to create a better world. Illustrations incorporate a weaving theme that showcases the message of joint effort and collaboration.
Aggie and the Ghost. By Matthew Forsythe. Illus. by the author. Simon & Schuster/Beach Lane Books.
Aggie’s new house comes with a ghost. Through trial and error, the creation of house rules, and an epic tic-tac-toe battle, Aggie and the ghost learn to get along. Clever book design and expressive characterization contribute to the wit.
And She Was Loved: Toni Morrison’s Life in Stories. By Andrea Davis Pinkney. Illus. by Daniel Minter. Little, Brown.
A praise poem of Toni Morrison’s life, beloved writer and advocate for Black Americans, that showcases the positive impact her writing has had on the world.
Anything. By Rebecca Stead. Illus. by Gracey Zhang. Chronicle.
A sensitive story of missing home and starting over again as a loving, creative dad helps his child feel at home in their new space. Black and white illustrations infused with pops of color depict the child’s thoughts and wishes.
At the Window. By Hope Lim. Illus. by Qin Leng. Candlewick.
In this thoughtful, introspective picture book, a child strikes up a tentative friendship with a neighbor at her window. When the window becomes vacant, the child is inspired to open their own window to new experiences and perspectives.
The Bear Out There. By Jess Hannigan. Illus. by the author. HarperCollins/Quill Tree.
As a know-it-all girl warns about the scary bear lurking outside, savvy readers begin to suspect that all is not quite as it seems in this bright, bold, interactive twist on the classic Goldilocks tale.
Big Enough. By Regina Linke. Illus. by the author. Little, Brown.
Ah-Fu has a big imagination. When he’s finally allowed to lead the bull in from pasture, it takes courage, creativity, and collaboration to get the job done. Elegant illustrations inspired by traditional Chinese techniques complete this masterfully told fable.
The Blue Jays That Grew a Forest. By Lynn Street. Illus. by Anne Hunter. Peachtree/Margaret Quinlin.
In this beautifully illustrated book, blue jays are shown burying their acorn bounty while supporting the growth of the thriving forest. This title captures the unique symbiotic relationship between the birds and the oak trees.
A Book of Maps for You. By Lourdes Heuer. Illus. by Maxwell Eaton, III. Neal Porter Books.
A child cartographer draws maps for the next inhabitant of his home, gently guiding readers through transitions and emotional landscapes to highlight the best parts of home.
Broken. By X. Fang. Illus. by the author. Tundra Books (NY), $18.99 (9781774882009)
When she breaks her grandmother’s mug but lets the cat take the blame, young Mei Mei embarks on an epic journey of emotions. Cinematic storytelling and charming artwork combine for an engaging, relatable lesson about making mistakes and making amends.
Cassini’s Mission: A Spacecraft, a Tiny Moon, and the Search for Life Beyond Earth. By Katie Venit. Illus. by Julia Blattman. MIT Kids Press, $18.99 (9781536232325)
Guided by her enthusiastic NASA scientists back on Earth, the spacecraft Cassini follows directions to conduct tests of Saturn’s moon Enceladus and makes the astonishing discovery that this little moon might just contain the building blocks for life.
The Clock. By Pam Fong. Illus. by the author. Union Square Kids, $18.99 (9781454955009)
The story of the beloved clock that graced the Gare d’Orsay train station in France, and how it was restored to its former glory when the station was transformed into a famous art museum.
Cranky, Crabby Crow (Saves the World). By Corey R. Tabor. Illus. by the author. Greenwillow Books, $19.99 (9780063373587)
The author’s signature wit and style are on display in this picture book about Crow, who seems mean and cranky and scares everyone away while he is actually prepping for a top-secret mission that will impress and awe his friends.
Croco. By Azul López. Illus. by the author. Tapioca Stories, $18.95 (9798988749974)
Dark Nights and Light Hearts: A Muslim Book of Opposites. By Hena Khan. Illus. by Mehrdokht Amini. Chronicle Books, $17.99 (9781797226958)
The concept of opposites is presented through exquisite illustrations and celebratory text that incorporate Muslim words, phrases, designs, and culture.
Dawn. By Marc Martin. Illus. by the author. Candlewick Studio, $18.99 (9781536232400)
As dawn breaks over a forest lake, wildlife awakens. Simple words and stunning artwork celebrate the everyday magic of the natural world.
The Day the Books Disappeared. By Joanna Ho & Caroline Kusin Pritchard. Illus. by Dan Santat. Disney Hyperion, $18.99 (9781368110655)
Arnold loves his favorite book so much that he doesn’t understand why anyone would want to read anything else—until his wish comes true and all the other books disappear.
Don't Trust Fish. By Neil Sharpson. Illus. by Dan Santat. Dial Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780593616673)
An informational book about animals quickly shifts to dramatic warnings about the untrustworthy nature of fish. Readers will laugh as they learn about facts, fiction, bias, and the reliability of the narrator in this witty picture book.
Downpour: Splish! Splash! Ker-splash!. By Yuko Ohnari. Illus. by Koshiro Hata. Red Comet Press, $18.99 (9781636551142)
In this picture book that celebrates the sights and sounds of a summer rain, a child is tired of the heat and anticipates a cooling storm. Child and reader are immersed in the book’s unique illustrated perspectives and wonderfully joyous onomatopoeia.
Earl & Worm: The Big Mess and Other Stories. By Greg Pizzoli. Illus. by the author. Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $10.99 (9780593649701)
Every Monday Mabel. By Jashar Awan. Illus. by the author. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9781665938150)
As her family watches, Mabel prepares for her favorite thing to do on the “best day of the week.” Sweet, deceptively simple illustrations capture the magic of the ordinary for readers of all ages. (Caldecott Honor Book)
Every Peach Is a Story. By David Mas Masumoto & Nikiko Masumoto. Illus. by Lauren Tamaki. Abrams Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9781949480290)
A Japanese American child and her grandfather tend their family farm through the seasons, reflecting on ancestors who made their lives possible. Poetic text and integrated illustrations celebrate farming, food, memory, and community.
Faith Takes the Train. By Kesi Augustine. Illus. by Mokshini. HarperCollins, $19.99 (9780063251342)
Riding the subway with her mother, Faith shows kindness to a neighbor who has fallen on hard times. Vivid watercolor illustrations provide a diverse, bustling urban background to this story of communal care.
Fireworks. By Matthew Burgess. Illus. by Cátia Chien. Clarion Books, $19.99 (9780063216723)
Vibrant hot pink and booming blue colors complement expressive text in this captivating picture book. Readers take joy in a pair of siblings’ activities on a hot summer day in the city while they eagerly await the evening fireworks show. (Caldecott Medal Book)
Floor It!. By Bex Tobin Fine. Illus. by Federico Fabiani. Random House Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780593904992)
A crawling baby zooms across a living room turned racetrack in this playful, rhyming picture book celebrating the imagination, adventure, and determination of toddlerhood, all in a high-speed crawl.
Flora and the Jazzers. By Astrid Shelkels. Illus. by the author. Waxwing Books, $18.99 (9781956393187)
In this Jazz Age Cinderella retelling, Flora the ferret works as a maid in a grand hotel filled with stylish animal guests. She schemes to hear her favorite band, the Jazzers, when they arrive to perform.
A Forest Song. By Kirsten Hall. Illus. by Evan Turk. Random House Studio, $18.99 (9780593480366)
In this picture book with text created by incorporating lines from previously published works written by notable poets, a child experiences the wonders of a flourishing forest.
Forests. By Nell Cross Beckerman. Illus. by Kalen Chock. Orchard Books, $19.99 (9781546130970)
Join a poetic, informative journey through magnificent forested landscapes across the globe and the forces that shape them.
Forts. By Katie Venit. Illus. By Kenard Pak. Viking Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780593466155)
Lyrical language and deep jewel-tone artwork convey coziness as a child character explores all of the ways a fort can be just right, whether it is a carefully built cardboard sanctuary inside or the branch canopies of the forest outdoors.
Gather Grateful. By Megan Litwin. Illus. by Alexandra Finkeldey. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536233384)
Evocative autumnal scenes in atmospheric shades of browns and blues show animals and people preparing for the coming winter by getting cozy, sharing meals, and gathering together.
A Gift of Dust: How Saharan Plumes Feed the Planet. By Martha Brockenbrough. Illus. by Juana Martinez-Neal. Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9780593428429)
Through a blend of science, lyrical poetry, and layered illustrations, this book explores the journey, impact, and importance of Saharan dust as it travels across and nourishes the world.
Hilwa’s Gifts. By Safa Suleiman. Illus. by Anait Semirdzhyan. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536229424)
Ali visits his grandparents in Palestine and learns from them and Hilwa, the beloved ancient olive tree planted long ago. Illustrations in a gentle, earth-toned palette celebrate family, tradition, culture, and the tree whose gifts keep giving from generation to generation.
How Sweet the Sound: A Soundtrack for America. By Kwame Alexander. Illus. by Charly Palmer. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780316442497)
A bright, colorfully-illustrated, informative journey through the deep-rooted rhythms of African American musical culture and its extraordinary Black musicians and artists.
How to Draw a Tree. By David LaRochelle. Illus. by Colleen Muske. Minnesota Historical Society Press, $18.95 (9781681343211)
Beginning with simple directions on how to draw a tree (“Go outside and find a tree”), this title expands to become an exercise in appreciating one’s senses and slowing down to observe the natural world.
How to Grow a Family Tree. By Bea Birdsong. Illus. by Jasu Hu. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823453962)
Emmylou dreads a school assignment to create her family tree, until she realizes that family is also found in caring neighbors and friends. A watercolor palette of shifting blues and yellows reinforces this story’s message about nontraditional and found families.
I Am We: How Crows Come Together to Survive. By Leslie Barnard Booth. Illus. by Alexandra Finkeldey. Chronicle Books, $18.99 (9781797226156)
This eerie informational poem explores crow intelligence and interdependence through a collective voice. Evocative language and experimental visuals create atmosphere, while dramatic perspectives and rich backmatter balance mood with scientific content.
I Hear the Snow, I Smell the Sea. By Janice Milusich. Illus. by Chris Raschka. Anne Schwartz Books, $18.99 (9780593308172)
A lyrically written picture book about a young blind girl and her mother exploring the sensory-rich experiences of each season. Watercolor and oil pastel illustrations, poetic language, and onomatopoeic sounds evoke a childlike quality so readers can close their eyes and use their senses.
I Like Hoops. By Juwanda G. Ford. Illus. by Jada Jeni Bennett. Holiday House, $15.99 (9780823459582)
If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone. By Gideon Sterer. Illus. by Emily Hughes. Clarion Books, $19.99 (9780063375222)
A growing friendship between a child and a gorilla helps both feel trusted and brings joyful fun. Lush illustrations contrast the jungle and home, with a charming surprise ending.
In the Desert. By David Elliott. Illus. by Gordy Wright. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536223385)
Poetic verse reveals the hidden lives of animals surviving in the Sahara’s harsh landscape. Vibrant illustrations and informative back matter bring a seemingly barren environment to life.
In the World of Whales. By Michelle Cusolito. Illus. by Jessica Lanan. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823453429)
A free diver witnesses the birth of a sperm whale and experiences a rare moment of connection with the pod in this immersive nonfiction picture book.
The Interpreter. By Olivia Abtahi. Illus. by Monica Arnaldo. Kokila, $18.99 (9780593620441)
Cecilia has two jobs: being a kid and interpreting for her Spanish-speaking parents. Clever, engaging artwork effectively illustrates the challenges of Cecilia’s dual roles, leading to a lesson about family, teamwork, and self-care.
Island Storm. By Brian Floca. Illus. by Sydney Smith. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823456475)
Siblings explore their island home as a storm rolls in and run for cover when it hits. Suspenseful text and immersive illustrations help readers experience the thrill of extreme weather and the safety of home.
It’s Corn Picking Time!. By Jill Esbaum. Illus. by Melissa Crowton. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823455614)
In this celebratory picture book with diverse representation and farm machines galore, readers get to know the farmer, her farm, and the exciting process that transforms green cornstalks in the field into golden kernels in the dryer bin.
The Jade Bracelet. By Hà Dinh. Illus. by Yong Ling Kang. Random House Studio, $18.99 (9780593711781)
This gentle picture book celebrates tradition, culture, and family as a Vietnamese American girl learns to appreciate the legacy of the jade bracelet she receives from her mother, though it looks different than the jewelry other girls wear.
Let's Be Bees. By Shawn Harris. Illus. by the author. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823457090)
In this enthusiastic read-aloud, a father and child romp through nature and the joy of make-believe. Illustrations depict surprising imaginary changes, and expressive language begs the reader to growl, buzz, and crack along with the characters.
Little Big Man. By Varian Johnson. Illus. by Reggie Brown. Orchard Books, $18.99 (9781338807431)
Elijah is learning to be a big brother. Thanks to great coaching from his dad, he finds ways to help out AND have fun in this bright, boldly-illustrated picture book for the whole family.
The Littlest Drop. By Sascha Alper. Illus. by Jerry Pinkney and Brian Pinkney. Anne Schwartz Books, $18.99 (9780593309124)
A fire breaks out on the savannah, and only the hummingbird rushes to douse the flames. Through bright, bold, energetic artwork and child-centered text, the hummingbird proves that when everyone gives all they can, a community can achieve the impossible.
Made for More. By Chloe Ito Ward. Illus. by Gael Abary. Allida, $19.99 (9780063334144)
An Asian American girl embraces the beauty of nature, celebrates her skin color, and honors her Japanese and Hawaiian cultures in this picture book with beautiful landscape illustrations of tropical scenes in bright colors.
Mai’s Áo Dài. By Thái Nguyễn & Monique Truong. Illus. by Dung Ho. Atheneum Books, $18.99 (9781665917346)
Mai dreams of being a movie star wearing fancy dresses—NOT traditional Vietnamese áo dài for Lunar New Year. When her father shares her grandmother's past as an expert seamstress, Mai learns the value of culture and tradition.
Menudo Sunday: A Spanglish Counting Book. By María Dolores Águila. Illus. by Erika Meza. Dial Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780593462256)
Told in Spanglish, this lively, story-driven counting book celebrates Mexican culture through energetic illustrations resulting in a joyful and inclusive tale of family, shared traditions, mistakes, and forgiveness.
Midnight Motorbike. By Maureen Shay Tajsar. Illus. by Ishita Jain. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823456628)
As mother and daughter travel through a moonlit night on their motorbike, the Indian landscape comes alive through vibrant artwork and lyrical text, helping readers see the ocean, feel the nighttime heat, and experience the rush of a monsoon downpour.
Moon Song. By Michaela Goade. Illus. by the author. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780316461634)
Two Tlingit cousins explore the magic of a wintry night in the second book of the Song of the Seasons series, honoring Tlingit and Haida culture. Watercolor illustrations contrast glowing scenes of light with the dark of night.
My Pollinator Garden: How I Plant for Bees, Butterflies, Beetles and More. By Jordan Zwetchkenbaum. Illus. by Kate Cosgrove. Holiday House, $18.99 (9780823454983)
A detailed, lively, informative picture book showing how bees and other pollinators help plants grow, illustrated with joyful color.
Night Light. By Michael Emberley. Illus. by the author. Holiday House, $14.99 (9780823458165)
When the power goes out, a parent grabs some stars from the night sky to help her child feel safe at night—until the moon gets lonely too. Accessible text and creative panels make this graphic novel ideal for early readers.
Night Walk. By Jason Cockcroft. Illus. by the author. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536239614)
Just before sunrise, a sleepy boy and his grandfather venture out to follow Grandma’s favorite walk through the woods to her favorite place, which turns out to be the perfect spot to remember her. Atmospheric illustrations are rich in natural details.
Nightsong. By Sally Soweol Han. Illus. by the author. Bloomsbury Children’s Books, $18.99 (9781547615063)
When a bus breakdown temporarily strands Lewis and his mother, he discovers a world alive with nighttime sounds. Bold onomatopoeia and striking illustrations turn insects, wind, and rustling plants into a vivid visual orchestra against the dark.
Oh Dear, Look What I Got!. By Michael Rosen. Illus. by Helen Oxenbury. Candlewick Press, $17.99 (9781536235685)
A boy goes shopping, but instead of a carrot, he’s given a parrot, and oh dear… As animal mistakes accumulate, the reader is treated to a rollicking, rhyming good time that leads to a ruckus until all ends well.
Our Gorgeous Baby. By Smriti Prasadam-Halls. Illus. by Eve Coy. Candlewick Press, $8.99 (9781536239324)
In this charmingly illustrated board book, a family celebrates their new baby in all her messy glory—stinky diapers, messy food, noisy nights—with gentle amusement, a realistic sense of humor, and a lot of love.
Our Pebbles. By Jarvis. Illus. by the author. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536242966)
A boy remembers his favorite outings with his grandfather, when they would walk to the beach and find the perfect pebbles. The author’s signature childlike artwork shows how the boy honors those special rituals by treasuring and sharing their memory.
Outside In and Inside Out: A Story About Arnold Lobel. By Emmy Kastner. Illus. by the author. Viking Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780593692509)
Reminiscent of noted children’s author Arnold Lobel’s Frog and Toad, this picture book biography honors its subject's life with care, wonder, and reverence.
Outside Mom, Inside Mom. By Jane Park. Illus. by Lenny Wen. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9781665929509)
At home, Mom is outgoing, warm, and active. But outside, Mom is quiet, reserved, and careful. The child of a Korean immigrant observes his mother’s codeswitching in this thoughtful picture book that ultimately celebrates being true to oneself.
Papilio. By Ben Clanton, Corey R. Tabor, and Andy Chou Musser. Illus. by the authors. Viking Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9780593693254)
Follow the story of a caterpillar experiencing the stages of metamorphosis and the ups and downs of growing up. Told in three complementary parts through the unique style of each author-illustrator, the art creatively captures each phase of growth.
Pencil. By Hye-Eun Kim. Illus. by the author. Toon Books, $18.99 (9781662665530)
This wordless picture book follows a forest as it is cut down, turned into pencils, and ultimately used to recreate a drawing of a new forest, highlighting cycles of loss, creativity, and renewal through striking, original illustrations.
Picking Tea with Baba. By Xu Bin. Illus. by Yu Yin. Charlesbridge Publishing, $18.99 (9781623546236)
Popo the Xolo. By Paloma Angelina Lopez. Illus. by Abraham Matias. Charlesbridge, $17.99 (9781623544577)
After her death, elderly Nana journeys to Mictlān alongside her loyal dog, Popo. This tender, poignant tale rooted in Aztec mythology is brought to life by luminous cut-paper and digital illustrations. (Pura Belpré Illustration Award Book)
Put Your Shoes On. By Polly Dunbar. Illus. by the author. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536242973)
This charming depiction of a daydreaming child balances everyday moments with a strong sense of wonder, brought to life through gentle humor and authentic, child-like artwork.
Raven’s Ribbons. By Tasha Spillet. Illus. by Daniel Ramirez. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780316422161)
Motion-filled illustrations and rhythmic, repetitive text reflect the relationship between a loving grandmother and her grandchild during a round dance. Contemporary Indigenous culture, along with an openness toward self-expression embrace all future possibilities.
Recess. By Lane Smith. Illus. by the author. Abrams Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9781419776892)
A mock-serious explanation of recess at school, Smith asks the reader to relax and join in on the silliness. Interspersed with spoofs of traditional subjects, jubilant and interactive storytimes are certain.
Safe Crossing. By Kari Percival. Illus. by the author. Chronicle Books, $18.99 (9781797214566)
On the first rainy night of the spring season, a young child and her family guard the roads to help amphibians migrate to their ponds, inspiring a community-led project to build a tunnel and make the annual crossing safer.
Shark Girl. By Kate Beaton. Illus. by the author. Roaring Brook Press, $18.99 (9781250184924)
A half-shark, half-human girl sets out to confront a sea captain who is overfishing her ocean home. Humor and big emotions blend in illustrations that reveal even more than the spare, witty text.
Shibu’s Tail. By Tess Thomas. Illus. by Kamwei Fong. Levine Querido, $19.99 (9781646145737)
Shibu the cat explores what happens when he hides his feelings instead of expressing them. Captivating ink artwork and deceptively simple text provide depth, while humor, clever design, and quick pacing shine.
A Sky That Sings. By Anita Sanchez & George Steele. Illus. by Emily Mendoza. Lee & Low Books, $20.95 (9781643795379)
The practice of bird-listening is introduced to readers through fact-based storytelling that values senses beyond sight. Thoughtful language and charming, accurate illustrations immerse readers in sound, touch, and smell, while young Mia shares her expertise with her curious aunt.
The Sleeper Train. By Mick Jackson. Illus. by Baljinder Kaur. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536238983)
A young girl is too excited to sleep on her first overnight train ride through India. Bright illustrations give the reader the illusion that the train is moving quickly, and intricately bordered pages center on the girl’s joy.
Smiling Eyes. By Linda Sue Park. Illus. by Lenny Wen. Allida, $19.99 (9780358663928)
Rhyming text follows an East Asian presenting child through a day in the city, exploring the many colors, shapes, and uses of eyes. Keenly observational and celebratory text pair with inclusive, painterly illustrations to create a warm and inviting narrative.
So Many Years: A Juneteenth Story. By Anne Wynter. Illus. by Jerome Pumphrey. Clarion Books, $19.99 (9780063081147)
A nonfiction picture book that honors the history of Juneteenth featuring vibrant illustrations that contrast the sobering history of enslavement with the resilient celebrations that began in the 19th century and continue today.
Stop That Mop!. By Jonathan Fenske. Illus. by the author. Simon Spotlight, $18.99 (9781665932721)
Stuck!: The Story of La Brea Tar Pits. By Joyce Uglow. Illus. by Valerya Milovanova. Bushel & Peck Books, $18.99 (9781638191889)
A uniquely styled picture book that explains how the La Brea Tar Pits in California trapped animals for thousands of years and revealed fossils that led to scientific discoveries.
The Three-Year Tumble. By Dayeon Auh. Illus. by the author. NorthSouth Books, $19.95 (9780735845749)
Inspired by the Korean folktale “Samnyeongogae,” this humorous picture book follows a superstitious grandfather and his clever granddaughter as they face a fateful mountain. Bold, energetic mixed media illustrations help bring the surreal tale to life.
Through the Telescope: Mae Jemison Dreams of Space. By Charles R. Smith, Jr. Illus. by Evening Monteiro. Orchard Books, $19.99 (9781338815290)
A picture book about groundbreaking astronaut Mae Jemison, highlighting the start of her fascination and curiosity about space. Awe-inspiring intergalactic illustrations convey the light and wonder of the universe.
Thunderland. By Maggie Edkins Willis. Illus. by the author. Viking Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780593693292)
Afraid of thunderstorms, a young girl learns from her father that it’s possible to be scared and brave at the same time. Warm illustrations and a gentle story offer comfort to children who fear storms.
To Activate Space Portal, Lift Here. By Antoinette Portis. Illus. by the author. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823459858)
Aliens open a portal and encounter humans for the first time in this interactive picture book. As they try to connect, readers help keep the portal open before the battery runs out, and it closes.
To Catch a Ghost. By Rachel Michelle Wilson. Illus. by the author. Orchard Books, $19.99 (9781339031958)
Hoping to impress his new classmates at show-and-tell, Sam sets out to catch a ghost but instead discovers an unexpected lesson in friendship. Playful illustrations and clever surprises make this an amusing and heartwarming story.
Toto. By Hyewon Yum. Illus. by the author. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823453894)
Starting school, a young girl learns to embrace her birthmark, lovingly named Toto, as part of who she is. Expressive illustrations and gentle humor celebrate self-acceptance and growing confidence.
The Tunneler Tunnels in the Tunnel. By Michael Rex. Illus. by the author. Simon Spotlight, $18.99 (9781665962100)
A Vaisakhi to Remember. By Simran Jeet Singh. Illus. by Japneet Kaur. Kokila, $18.99 (9780593859087)
Missing Vaisakhi celebrations in India, a young Sikh girl finds friendship and learns traditions can be honored in new ways. Bright, detailed illustrations fill each page with warmth and joyful energy.
Wanda Hears the Stars. By Amy S. Hansen & Wanda Díaz Merced. Illus. by Rocío Arreola Mendoza. Charlesbridge Publishing, $18.99 (9781623544874)
Astronomer Wanda Díaz Merced loses her sight due to complications from diabetes. Refusing to give up, she develops an unprecedented method to study the stars using sonification, which turns data into sound, and continues her groundbreaking work.
We Are the Wibbly: A Tadpole’s Tail. By Sarah Tagholm. Illus. by Jane McGuiness. Bloomsbury Children’s Books, $18.99 (9781547615742)
A late-blooming tadpole follows its friends through the stages of growing up in this playful look at the amphibian life cycle. Silly read-aloud dialogue blends humor, social-emotional learning, and science.
We Go Slow. By Mariahadessa Ekere Tallie. Illus. by Aaron Becker. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9781665950602)
With rich colored pencil illustrations and muted watercolor tones, a girl and her grandfather take a slow walk around a bustling city. Both explorers gently lead and guide one another through the maze of neighborhoods enjoying rich city details.
We Leap Together. By Christopher Silas Neal. Illus. by the author. Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9780593812648)
A mother and child are mirrored with a whale and her calf in this gentle story celebrating connection and shared experiences. Spare text and beautiful illustrations invite young readers to notice how humans and animals are alike.
Whales in the City. By Nancy F. Castaldo. Illus. by Chuck Groenink. Farrar, Straus and Giroux, $18.99 (9780374308568)
This nonfiction picture book shows the evolution of the waters around NYC and the whales that lived there until they were forced away by pollution and congestion. Citizen environmentalists advocated to improve conditions, leading to the whales’ eventual return.
What Makes a Bird?. By Megan Pomper. Illus. by Maia Hoekstra. Owlkids Books, $18.95 (9781771476133)
This engaging nonfiction picture book shares fascinating facts about birds while inviting readers to wonder what truly defines them. Clear text and appealing illustrations encourage curiosity about how animals are classified and understood.
When Alexander Graced the Table. By Alexander Smalls & Denene Millner. Illus. by Frank Morrison. Denene Millner Books/Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9781534488724)
Alexander prepares his first solo dish for his family’s cherished Sunday dinner, hoping to impress his dessert-loving father. Luminous oil paintings warmly capture the joy of family, food, and tradition.
Wiggling Words. By Kate Rolfe. Illus. by the author. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536244557)
When letters wiggle and jumble on the page, a child imagines new ways to make words work and discovers their own path to reading. Rhyming text and expressive illustrations offer an affirming look at perseverance and the challenges of dyslexia.
Year Round. By Audrey Helen Weber. Illus. by the author. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823457205)
Explore and contemplate the four seasons in unexpected ways by considering the questions, feelings, thoughts, and wishes of a child.
Zip Zap Wickety Wack: A Story About Sharing. By Matthew Diffee. Illus. by the author. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823458714)
Farm animals happily share their sounds until the goat and sheep both insist that “baa” belongs to them. Silly humor and lively illustrations make this playful story a read-aloud favorite.
MIDDLE
The Adventures of Cipollino. By Gianni Rodari. Illus. by Dasha Tolstikova. Enchanted Lion, $29.99 (9781592704163)
Amina Banana and the Formula for Friendship. By Shifa Saltagi Safadi. Illus. by Aaliya Jaleel. G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers, $16.99 (9780593699140)
Amina, a recent Syrian immigrant, feels overwhelmed by the idiosyncrasies of English, mean kids at school, and missing home. She soon learns that the formula for friendship is determined by kindness, understanding, and empathy.
Are You a Friend of Dorothy?: The True Story of an Imaginary Woman and the Real People She Helped. By Kyle Lukoff. Illus. by Levi Hastings. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9781665931663)
This lively illustrated picture book explains how the phrase "Friend of Dorothy" has been used by the LGBTQ+ community throughout history to find camaraderie, companionship, and support.
Astro. By Manuel Marsol. Illus. by the author. Transit Children’s Editions, $21.95 (9798893389043)
An astronaut befriends an alien on a new planet and later deals with the loss of his new friend. Surreal artwork and child-friendly existential wonderings make this picture book unique and strange in the best of ways.
Bad Badger: A Love Story. By Maryrose Wood. Illus. By Giulia Ghigini. Union Square Kids, $18.99 (9781454953456)
An introverted and introspective badger strikes up an unlikely friendship with a seagull. When Gully goes missing, Septimus must summon his courage to find her.
Benny on the Case. By Wesley King. Paula Wiseman Book/Beach Lane Books, $17.99 (9781665937696)
Benny is an 11-year-old with Mosaic Down Syndrome living in a retirement home run by his mother. When the residents notice their belongings have gone missing, Benny and the new girl at school work to solve the mystery.
Botticelli's Apprentice. By Ursula Murray Husted. Illus. by the author. Quill Tree Books, $24.99 (9780063157941)
This colorful, inspiring, and well-researched graphic novel tells the story of a girl overcoming stereotypes and the norms of the Renaissance to study with one of the great artists and demonstrate her own talent.
Busted. By Dan Gemeinhart. Henry Holt & Company, $17.99 (9781250378361)
Twelve-year‑old Oscar lives in a retirement home. When threatened with eviction, he agrees to help a shady resident escape, launching a rollicking, humorous adventure with unlikely friends that tests loyalty, courage, and compassion.
The Cartoonists Club. By Reina Telgemeier & Scott McCloud. Illus. by the authors. Graphix, $24.99 (9781338777222)
Makayla loves stories, Howard prefers sketching over schoolwork, Lynda struggles to see past her drawing “mistakes,” and Art just wants to be creative. When they learn their school media specialist adores comics, too, the Cartoonists Club is born.
Casey’s Cases: The Mysterious New Girl. By Kay Healy. Illus. by the author. Neal Porter Books, $16.99 (9780823456505)
Casey, a girl who is always upbeat and a little bit clueless, seeks out mysteries to solve in this humorous graphic novel.
CeeCee: Underground Railroad Cinderella. By Shana Keller. Illus. by Laura Freeman. Charlesbridge Publishing, $18.99 (9781623543891)
Blending fairy tale, history, and Bible story, this is the story of CeeCee, a girl enslaved by cruel plantation owners and their two spoiled daughters. After dreaming about Moses freeing enslaved people, she is determined to escape to the North.
Chickenpox. By Remy Lai. Illus. by the author. Henry Holt & Company, $22.99 (9781250863300)
Abby endures a chickenpox outbreak with her four usually annoying siblings while also learning how to navigate her tween friendships in this semi-autobiographical graphic novel set in Indonesia.
Dino Poet: A Graphic Novel. By Tom Angleberger. Illus. by the author. Abrams Fanfare, $13.99 (9781419772801)
A dinosaur and a frog provide humorous banter as they explore various types of poetry and avoid getting eaten by other dinosaurs in this helpful guide.
Dragonflies of Glass: The Story of Clara Driscoll and the Tiffany Girls. By Susan Goldman Rubin. Illus. by Susanna Chapman. Abrams Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9781419754364)
Through colorful illustrations and text that capture Clara's determination, readers learn about the famous Tiffany Glass Studio and meet the women who created so many of their well-known pieces.
The Experiment. By Rebecca Stead. Feiwel & Friends, $17.99 (9781250374769)
Extraterrestrial Nathan has been taught that his family is impersonating humans in order to study Earth. Things become complicated and confusing when strange changes occur, and the truth is finally revealed.
The Five Sides of Marjorie Rice: How to Discover a Shape. By Amy Alznauer. Illus. by Anna Bron. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536229479)
A picture book biography about amateur mathematician Marjorie Rice, who blends science and art to discover brand-new tessellating pentagons.
The Forest of a Thousand Eyes. by Frances Hardinge. Illus. by Emily Gravett. Amulet Books, $19.99 (9781419777783)
Feather and her community dwell on crumbling remains of the Wall surrounded by an endless sea of malevolent plants and deadly creatures. When Feather makes a terrible mistake, she braves the unknown, finding danger and wonder beyond her wildest dreams.
The Friendship Train: A True Story of Helping and Healing After World War II. By Debbie Levy. Illus. by Boris Kulikov. Bloomsbury Children’s Books, $20.00 (9781547608027)
At the end of WWII, as the people of France suffer through food shortages, American children create the Friendship Train by filling railroad cars with food and donations.
The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon. By Grace Lin. Illus. by the author. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780316478328)
Young Jin, a Stone Lion, is tired of watching over humans and protecting the Sacred Sphere. When Jin accidentally kicks it through the gate and into the real world, he must get the Sphere back home or lose everything.
The Gift of the Great Buffalo. By Carole Lindstrom. Illus. by Aly McNight. Bloomsbury Children’s Books, $18.99 (9781547606887)
Young Rose longs to be useful during her Métis-Ojibwe community’s annual bison hunt and saves the day when the buffalo are elusive. This thoughtful historical picture book recontextualizes the late 19th-century Indigenous experience for readers of all ages.
Go Tell It: How James Baldwin Became a Writer. By Quartez Harris. Illus. by Gordon C. James. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780316483933)
This painterly and accessible picture book biography depicts how James Baldwin's childhood love of stories inspired his writing. (Sibert Honor Book)
Growing Home. By Beth Ferry. Illus. by The Fan Brothers. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $17.99 (9781665942485)
An unlikely team of a talkative plant, a curious spider, and a grumpy goldfish use their newfound magical abilities to defend their family from a greedy human.
Gus and Glory. By Sarah Guillory. Roaring Brook Press, $18.99 (9781250349361)
When 12-year-old Glory’s mom suddenly leaves, she is determined to sniff out the clues to find her. After Glory comes upon Gus, a bloodhound in need of a friend, she realizes she's been paired with the perfect partner.
Harriet Tubman, Force of Nature: A Biography in Poems. By Caroline Brewer. Illus. by the author. What On Earth!, $18.99 (9781804661444)
A chronological biography in poems, covering Harriet Tubman's exceptional life as a conductor of the Underground Railroad, Civil War spy, and abolitionist, complemented by powerful collage illustrations.
A Hero's Guide to Summer Vacation. by Pablo Cartaya. Kokila, $18.99 (9780451479754)
Cuban American middle schooler Gonzalo is mourning the loss of his father when he is forced to accompany his grandfather, the author of a bestselling fantasy series, on a cross-country road trip to promote his latest title. (Pura Belpré Author Honor Book)
Hiding in Plain Sight: Kate Warne and the Race to Save Abraham Lincoln. By Beth Anderson. Illus. by Sally Wern Comport. Calkins Creek Books, $18.99 (9781635928235)
The exciting illustrated story of Kate Warne, the nation’s first female detective, who uncovered a plot to assassinate Lincoln and worked to safeguard the president on a cross-country railroad journey.
The House on the Canal: The Story of the House That Hid Anne Frank. By Thomas Harding. Illus. by Britta Teckentrup. Candlewick Studio, $19.99 (9781536240702)
A compelling story about the house where Anne Frank hid from Nazi soldiers during WWII, beginning in the marshes of 16th century Netherlands and ending with the modern-day museum dedicated to Frank and her family.
How to Draw a Secret. By Cindy Chang. Illus. by the author. Allida, $24.99 (9780358659662)
The death of Cindy’s grandmother prompts a trip to Taiwan where family secrets are revealed in this emotional graphic novel.
How to Talk to Your Succulent. By Zoe Persico. Illus. by the author. Tundra Books (NY), $21.99 (9781774883129)
Adara learns she can talk to plants as she struggles with the death of her mother and the reclusiveness of her father.
Hurricane. By Jason Chin. Illus. by the author. Neal Porter Books, $19.99 (9780823458493)
This striking informational picture book about children preparing for a hurricane in their North Carolina community is rich with scientific detail. Readers see the hurricane from the perspective of experts tracking it and the people living in the path.
I'm a Dumbo Octopus!: A Graphic Guide to Cephalopods. By Anne Lambelet. Illus. by the author. Graphic Universe, $12.99 (9798765661376)
An informative and amusing graphic novel exploration of cephalopods, their differences and similarities, and the roles they play throughout the ocean.
Imogen: The Life and Work of Imogen Cunningham. By Elizabeth Partridge. Illus. by Yuko Shimizu. Viking Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9781984835185)
Told through lovingly descriptive text and distinctive illustrations, this is the story of groundbreaking early 20th-century female photographer Imogen Cunningham.
Into the Rapids. By Ann Braden. Nancy Paulsen Books, $17.99 (9780593856369)
Addy and her mother live in a remote area and isolate themselves from the small group of nearby neighbors. A natural disaster tests Addy's skills in overcoming the wilderness and her interpersonal challenges.
The Invisible Parade. By Leigh Bardugo & John Picacio. Illus. by John Picacio. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9780316295703)
Is It Real? The Loch Ness Monster. By Candace Fleming. Scholastic, $26.99 (9781546110286)
Well-researched and written in an engaging conversational style, this book presents clear evidence about the Loch Ness mystery and also guides readers in how to evaluate information sources.
The Island of Forgotten Gods
The Last Resort. By Erin Entrada Kelly. Scholastic Focus, $17.99 (9781546132431)
Stuck at her deceased grandfather's bed and breakfast, Lila discovers that she can talk to ghosts as she works to solve the mystery surrounding his death. The story is enhanced by interactive online elements.
The Library of Unruly Treasures. By Jeanne Birdsall. Illus. by Matt Phelan. Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $17.99 (9780525579045)
Following in the footsteps of many McKinnon women before her, Gwen finds her purpose in the children’s room of the library named after her family, as she helps tiny creatures called Lahdukan relocate when their home is threatened.
A Line Can Go Anywhere: The Brilliant, Resilient Life of Artist Ruth Asawa. By Caroline McAlister. Illus. by Jamie Green. Roaring Brook Press, $19.99 (9781250310378)
A look at the unique life of artist Ruth Asawa and how her experiences as a Japanese American and her family’s imprisonment in a WWII incarceration camp inspired and informed her groundbreaking sculptural artwork.
The Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls. By Judith Rossell. Illus. by the author.Dial Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9798217002405)
Orphan Maggie arrives at the Midwatch Institute and discovers that it is really a secret training facility for young girls who thwart crimes and solve mysteries around town.
My Presentation Today Is About the Anaconda. By Bibi Dumon Tak. Illus. by Annemarie Van Haeringen. Levine Querido, $19.99 (9781646145102)
A unique take on traditional school reports where animal classmates present about one another, offering facts and fun in a droll, quirky, conversational manner, accompanied by stylized spot illustrations.
My Sister the Apple Tree: A Refugee Story of Hope and Resilience. By Jordan Scott & Jamal Saeed. Illus. by Zahra Marwan. Random House Studio, $18.99 (9780593808412)
Throughout his harrowing escape to safety, a young Syrian refugee nurtures his “sister,” an apple tree planted on the day he was born. The book deftly illustrates the emotional toll fleeing from conflict can take on the immigrant community.
The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli. By Karina Yan Glaser. Allida, $19.99 (9780063284432)
In alternating narratives, Han Yu in 8th-century China and Luli in 20th-century New York must step up to help their families through challenges that are unique to their time and place in the world. (Newbery Honor Book)
No Purchase Necessary. By Maria Marianayagam. HarperCollins, $19.99 (9780063360921)
Ajay, son of Sri Lankan Christian immigrants, steals a candy bar trying to find his place in middle school, kicking off a series of lies that make it increasingly harder for him to tell the truth.
Oasis. By Guojing. Illus. by the author. Godwin Books, $21.99 (9781250818379)
In this dramatically illustrated dystopian graphic novel, two children salvage a robot that becomes their de facto caregiver while their mother is absent.
Octopus Moon. By Bobbie Pyron. Nancy Paulsen Books, $18.99 (9780593616291)
In this touching novel in verse, fifth grader Pearl learns how to ride the waves of her depression with the help of her therapist and family.
One Day: A True Story of Survival in the Holocaust. By Michael Rosen. Illus. by Benjamin Phillips. Candlewick Studio, $18.99 (9781536238945)
This illustrated tale of endurance and resilience chronicles a Hungarian-French Jewish father and son's bravery and determination during their imprisonment by the Nazis as they focus on surviving one day at a time.
Pilgrim Codex. By Vivian Mansour. Illus. by Emmanuel Valtierra. Levine Querido, $18.99 (9781646145157)
In this tensely evocative immigration story, a family travels from Mexico to the United States by bus, van, and on foot until finally reaching the Rio Grande. Unique illustrations reference ancient Mexican Aztec codices. (Batchelder Honor Book)
Pocket Bear. By Katherine Applegate. Illus. by Charles Santoso. Feiwel & Friends, $17.99 (9781250904362)
Pocket leads the Second Chances Home for the Tossed and Treasured, where discarded toys are given an opportunity to be loved by Elizaveta and her daughter, Dasha, refugees from Ukraine.
Return to Sender. By Vera Brosgol. Illus. by the author. Roaring Brook Press, $18.99 (9781250292186)
Heartfelt and offbeat, this adventure, grounded in grief and familial concern, deftly balances emotional depth with an over-the-top middle-grade sci-fi premise. The emotionally honest prose is supported by beautiful illustrations woven throughout the text.
Safe Harbor. By Padma Venkatraman. Nancy Paulsen Books, $17.99 (9780593112502)
This novel in verse features new friends, Geetha and Miguel, who work together as they navigate missing an old home, mental health challenges, and climate responsibility.
Seeds of Discovery: How Barbara McClintock Used Corn and Curiosity to Solve a Science Mystery and Win a Nobel Prize. By Lori Alexander. Illus. by Rebecca Santo. Clarion Books, $18.99 (9780063245990)
A charmingly illustrated chapter book biography of little-known scientist Barbara McClintock, who was ahead of her time using corn and plants to study genetics.
Speechless. By Aron Nels Steinke. Illus. by the author. Graphix, $24.99 (9781338849332)
In this graphic novel, a girl with social anxiety falls into a period of selective mutism and learns to express herself through stop-motion animation and therapy.
The Spider Lady: Nan Songer and Her Arachnid WWII Army. By Penny Parker Klostermann. Illus. by Anne Lambelet. Calkins Creek, $18.99 (9781662680359)
This nonfiction picture book explains how arachnid enthusiast and scientist Nan Songer discovered a way to harvest spider silk for use by the military as crosshairs in gunsights and bombsights during WWII.
The Stolen Songbird. By Judith Eagle. Illus. by Jo Rioux. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536242683)
After discovering a hidden painting, 12-year-old Caro enlists the help of her friends to solve the mystery of the artwork, outsmart a gang of thieves, and locate her missing mother.
Story Spinners: A Sisterly Tale of Danger, a Princess, and Her Crew of Lady Pirates. Cassandra Federman. Illus. by the author. Aladdin, $22.99 (9781665918237)
Two bickering sisters are forced to create the “best fairy tale ever” to put their baby sister to sleep in this humorous graphic novel.
To Walk the Sky: How Iroquois Steelworkers Helped Build Towering Cities. By Patricia Morris Buckley. Illus. by E.B. Lewis. Heartdrum, $19.99 (9780063046979)
Recounts the story of Native skywalkers, steelworkers who crafted skyscrapers across North America, sometimes at great cost. The author, a descendant of a skywalker, illuminates their courage and grace, while expressive watercolors carry readers up into the sky with the workers.
The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest. By Aubrey Hartman. Illus. by Marcin Minor. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $17.99 (9780316575720)
Clare, the undead fox, is tasked with ferrying souls to the afterlife and finds friendship and purpose in this eerie, moving middle-grade fantasy. (Newbery Honor Book)
Will's Race for Home. By Jewell Parker Rhodes. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $17.99 (9780316299336)
In 1889, Will’s formerly enslaved father is frustrated by sharecropping and wants land of his own. Leaving their Texas home to join the Oklahoma Land Rush, Will and his father face a journey full of unexpected obstacles.
The Winter of the Dollhouse. By Laura Amy Schlitz. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536236088)
The lives of 11-year-old Tiph, an elderly woman named Szilvia, and Gretel the antique doll intersect when they are uniquely served by each other in alternating chapters.
Xolo: How One Good Dog Saved Humankind. By Donna Barba Higuera. Illus. by Mariana Ruiz Johnson. Levine Querido, $19.99 (9781646147021)
In this beautifully illustrated reimagining of an Aztec legend, the feathered serpent god, Quetzalcoatl, brings back humanity from the Underworld with his dog-headed twin brother, Xolotl.
OLDER
All the Blues in the Sky. By Renée Watson. Bloomsbury Children’s Books, $17.99 (9781547605897)
With help from the other girls in her grief counseling group, 13-year-old Sage mourns her best friend, killed in a hit-and-run accident, in this heartbreaking work of verse and prose. (Newbery Medal Book)
At Last She Stood: How Joey Guerrero Spied, Survived, and Fought for Freedom. By Erin Entrada Kelly. Greenwillow Books, $19.99 (9780063218901)
The untold story of Filipino freedom fighter Joey Guerrero, who spied for the United States during World War II while living with Hansen’s disease (leprosy) and advocating for better and more humane treatment. (Sibert Honor Book)
Blood in the Water. By Tiffany D. Jackson. Scholastic Press, $18.99 (9781338849912)
This thriller dives into an unfamiliar history of Martha's Vineyard as it weaves themes of elitism within Black communities, wrongful incarceration, and features a young Black girl preparing for a law career.
Candle Island. By Lauren Wolk. Dutton Children’s Books, $18.99 (9780593698549)
Lucretia and her mother have come to Maine’s Candle Island to find privacy and keep a secret. As she gets to know the locals and experiences a New England summer, Lucretia learns to let her true self shine.
Coach. By Jason Reynolds. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, $17.99 (9798347102372)
Set in the 1980s, this is the "origin story" of the Defenders track team coach. Twelve-year-old Otie is obsessed with Carl Lewis and hopes to become a world champion himself but faces gang influence in his neighborhood.
A Dangerous Idea: The Scopes Trial, the Original Fight Over Science in Schools. By Debbie Levy. Bloomsbury Children’s Books, $20.99 (9781547612215)
The meticulously researched story of the inception, evolution, and impact of the Scopes Trial and the larger-than-life personalities behind the prosecution and the defense.
Dragonborn. By Struan Murray. Dutton Children’s Books, $19.99 (9798217113217)
Alex has never thought she was anything but human. When her true dragon identity is revealed, she must learn the art of transforming and how to embrace both parts of herself.
The Enemy’s Daughter. By Anne Blankman. Viking Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780593623046)
After the Lusitania sinks during WWI, 12-year-old Marta must navigate mistrust in wartime England without her German identity being discovered.
The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez. By Jasminne Paulino. G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780593859315)
A novel in verse featuring space-loving neurodivergent seventh-grader, Alex, who dreams of working at NASA and advocates for himself to leave his self-contained classroom to enroll in a challenging mainstream science class.
Graciela in the Abyss. By Meg Medina. Illus. by Anna and Elena Balbusso. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536219456)
A ghost girl and a mortal boy work together to fight a curse in a mysterious undersea setting. Evocative illustrations and lyrical text combine to create this Spanish-influenced fantasy.
How to Say Goodbye in Cuban. By Daniel Miyares. Illus. by the author. Anne Schwartz Books, $21.99 (9780593568293)
A nonfiction graphic novel depicting young Carlos's experience at the inception of the Cuban Revolution and the complexities of his family’s difficult decision to leave for the United States.
The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze. By Derrick Barnes. Viking Books for Young Readers, $17.99 (9781984836755)
This genre-blending sports fantasy explores race, fame, capitalism, masculinity, and faith, shifting from a small town’s obsession with a 13-year-old African American football star to magical realism after a harrowing account of police brutality is exposed.
It’s All or Nothing, Vale. By Andrea Beatriz Arango. Random House Books for Young Readers, $17.99 (9780593810927)
Valentina was the top athlete at her fencing gym until a life-changing accident permanently damages her body. Now she must learn to accept her limitations and her new normal.
The Pecan Sheller. By Lupe Ruiz-Flores. Carolrhoda Books, $18.99 (9798765610527)
Please Pay Attention. By Jamie Sumner. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, $17.99 (9781665956079)
After middle schooler Bea, a wheelchair user, survives a school shooting, she must figure out how to navigate a world where she no longer feels safe. In her journey towards healing, told through poignant verse, she discovers equine therapy.
The Poisoned King. By Katherine Rundell. Illus. by Ashley MacKenzie. Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9780593809907)
In the second volume of Impossible Creatures, Christopher and Princess Anya work to save the ancient dragons, who are dying in the Archipelago, and free Anya's father, who has been imprisoned after being accused of poisoning the king.
Radiant. By Vaunda Micheaux Nelson. Dutton Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780593855782)
Set in 1963 Pennsylvania, this tender novel in verse centers on fifth grader Cooper Dale, the only Black student in class, who aches to shine like her mama, a house cleaner for a bully’s wealthy white family, says she can.
Rebellion 1776. By Laurie Halse Anderson. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9781416968269)
As the American Revolution concludes, Elsbeth must deal with both the turmoil of war and the smallpox epidemic that threatens all that she holds dear.
Scarlet Morning. By ND Stevenson. Illus. by the author. Quill Tree Books, $19.99 (9780063210349)
This unconventional pirate adventure is rich in imagination and lore, enhanced by playful illustrations, creative typography, and dual perspectives. The fast-paced first installment builds an immersive world and ends with a shocking cliffhanger.
Scattergood. By H.M. Bouwman. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823457755)
Growing up in 1941 rural Iowa, Peggy struggles to understand her refugee neighbors from the war in Europe, her first crush, and a dying friend.
A Sea of Lemon Trees: The Corrido of Roberto Alvarez. By María Dolores Águila. Roaring Brook Press, $17.99 (9781250342614)
Fast-paced and inspired by true events, this historical novel-in-verse follows a tween’s awakening to Mexican American activism amid 1930s anti-immigrant sentiment. Introspective narration, rich backmatter, and historical relevance make it a powerful testament to communal resistance. (Pura Belpré Author Honor Book; Newbery Honor Book)
Silenced Voices: Reclaiming Memories from the Guatemalan Genocide. By Pablo Leon. Illus. by the author. Harperalley, $26.99 (9780063223561)
A Song for You and I. By K. O’Neill. Illus. by the author. Random House Graphic, $21.99 (9780593182314)
Young ranger Rowan contemplates their gender identity as they accompany shy sheep herder Leone on treks across the land with a winged horse in tow and prepare for the upcoming Name Carving ceremony.
Song of a Blackbird. By Maria van Lieshout. Illus. by the author. First Second, $25.99 (9781250869814)
Set in Amsterdam in both 1943 and 2011, this deeply personal and poetic graphic novel illustrates the heroic actions of everyday Dutch people as they resisted the Nazi regime, and the lingering trauma inherited by subsequent generations.
The Teacher of Nomad Land. By Daniel Nayeri. Levine Querido, $18.99 (9781646145669)
Set in 1941 Iran, siblings Babak and Sana become orphans and embark on a journey to teach nomads as a means of protection. Along the way they meet a Jewish boy and find themselves in a harrowing survival escapade through mountainous territory. (Newbery Honor Book)
The Trouble with Heroes. By Kate Messner. Bloomsbury Children’s Books, $17.99 (9781547616398)
As reparation after damaging a tombstone, Finn must hike the 46 Adirondack peaks where he learns about himself and deals with the trauma of his father's death.
Tyger. By S.F. Said. Illus. by Dave McKean. Penguin Workshop, $9.99 (9780593887257)
Discrimination runs rampant in other-worldly London, where slavery was never outlawed. When Adam slips through a gate, he encounters a wounded magical creature that must be protected from a maniacal menagerie keeper.
The Vanishing of Lake Peigneur: A Graphic Novel Based on a True Story. By Allan Wolf. Illus. by Jose Pimienta. Candlewick Press, $19.99 (9781536217438)
Based on an amazing true story, this meticulously researched graphic novel details how a massive sinkhole swallowed an entire Louisiana lake.
Very Bad at Math. By Hope Larson. Illus. by the author. Harperalley, $24.99 (9780063311299)
Eighth grader Verity “Very” Nelson, who is very good at everything (except math), is diagnosed with dyscalculia as she works to improve her math grade, remain class president, and maintain friendships in this graphic novel.
Whale Eyes: A Memoir About Seeing and Being Seen. By James Robinson. Illus. by Brian Rea. Penguin Workshop, $18.99 (9780593523957)
This uniquely interactive memoir details the author’s life with strabismus, a misalignment of the eyes. Informed by how others see him and how he sees the world, Robinson explores the creative process and disability advocacy.
A World Without Summer: A Volcano Erupts, A Creature Awakens, and the Sun Goes Out. By Nicholas Day. Illus. by Yas Imamura. Random House Studio, $19.99 (9780593643877)
Thorough research and compelling writing merge in this work of narrative nonfiction to build context and connections between the 1815 eruption of Mount Tambora, the creation of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, and other cultural and scientific events of the time. (Sibert Honor Book)
A World Worth Saving. By Kyle Lukoff. Dial Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780593618981)
Trans kid ‘A’ tries to make sense of a world where his parents insist he attend meetings to stifle his true self and other trans friends go missing. He discovers demons filling the world with hatred and vows to fight.
ALL AGES
The 13th Day of Christmas. By Adam Rex. Illus. by the author. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823456536)
This madcap reimagining of The 12 Days of Christmas depicts the unintended consequences and chaos of taking the song lyrics literally after receiving gifts from his true love. Visually complex and humorous illustrations contribute additional layers to the storytelling.
The Black Mambas: The World's First All-Woman Anti-Poaching Unit. By Kelly Crull. Millbrook Press, $19.99 (9798765627259)
Documented through photographs and interactive features, see the day-to-day work lives of the women who make up the first all-female anti-poaching unit at the Balule Nature Reserve in South Africa.
Buzz! Boom! Bang!: The Book of Sounds. By Benjamin Gottwald. Illus. by the author. NorthSouth Books, $21.95 (9780735846036)
This wordless picture book invites the reader to create a multitude of sound effects prompted by colorful, exuberant, cartoony artwork.
Cabin Head and Tree Head. By Scott Campbell. Illus. by the author. Tundra Books (NY), $13.99 (9781774885055)
In this hilarious and absurd graphic novel, best buddies Cabin Head and Tree Head go on a series of short adventures involving hellos, portraits, holes, and hiding spots.
Cat Nap. By Brian Lies. Illus. by the author. Greenwillow Books, $19.99 (9780062671288)
The chase is on when a napping cat spots a mouse jumping into a poster from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Cat, mouse, and reader explore works from various time periods in this extraordinary picture book romp through art and history.
Dear Acorn (Love, Oak): Letter Poems to Friends. By Joyce Sidman. Illus. by Melissa Sweet. Clarion Books, $19.99 (9780358334767)
Reciprocal poems between pairs in nature share the perspectives of being big and little. Their connections will inspire readers to write their own letter poems.
From Memen to Mori. Shinsuke Yoshitake. Illus. by the author. JY, $20.00 (9798855417401)
Here Is a Book. By Elisha Cooper. Illus. by the author. Abrams Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9781419766756)
Soft watercolor full page spreads and detailed vignettes provide a glimpse into the creative process of making a book, from an illustrator’s initial idea, to warehouse printing, and finally a child’s joyful discovery of the published book on a shelf.
The History of We. By Nikkolas Smith. Illus. by the author. Kokila, $18.99 (9780593619681)
In this lushly illustrated picture book, the African origins of humanity are celebrated through shared language, art, music, creativity, curiosity, and exploration. (Sibert Honor Book)
Home. By Matt de la Peña. Illus. By Loren Long. G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9780593110898)
Lyrical text and warm illustrations celebrate home as both a place and the people who make us feel we belong. This book honors the many forms families and homes can take.
The House That Floated. By Guojing. Illus. by the author. Random House Studio, $18.99 (9780593709054)
In this wordless picture book, a seaside family watches rising waters threaten their cliff-top home. Relying on ingenuity and love, they float their house to safety, moving through dreamy ocean scenes in a hopeful tale of resilience and belonging.
If We Were Dogs. By Sophie Blackall. Illus. by the author. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9780316581721)
While one child enthusiastically imagines being a dog, another wishes for a different adventure. Playful illustrations portray a rousing adventure with a humorous twist and a lesson in imagination, standing up for yourself, and learning to play together.
Jim! Six True Stories About One Great Artist: James Marshall. By Jerrold Connors. Illus. by the author. Dial Books for Young Readers, $20.99 (9780593859346)
Lovingly told in the style of James Marshall’s stories, this offbeat picture book biography celebrates its subject with witty humor and charming illustrations.
The Keeper of Stories. By Caroline Kusin Pritchard. Illus. by Selina Alko. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9781665914970)
A community bands together to save books after a fire at the Jewish Theological Seminary in NYC in 1966. Poignant illustrations and poetic text celebrate and document this historic preservation effort.
Little Rebels. By Yuyi Morales. Illus. by the author. Neal Porter Books, $18.99 (9780823447541)
This picture book folktale begs readers to stand up, stand out, and take care of our world and each other. Caricature-like illustrated bodies bounce, dance, and march through each page expressing their joy and determination to make a difference.
Meet the Mini-Mammals: A Night at the Natural History Museum. By Melissa Stewart. Illus. by Brian Lies. Beach Lane Books, $19.99 (9781665947169)
Presented by a cheery ferret showman who introduces the mini-mammals, readers meet increasingly smaller creatures. Naturalistic illustrations show animals’ actual size and contextualize them with everyday objects.
Mistaco: A Tale of Tragedy Y Tortillas. By Eliza Kinkz. Illus. by the author. Kokila, $18.99 (9780593700235)
A vibrant, humorous picture book celebration of failure, family, and food. Kinetic, jam-packed illustrations depict how a young girl named Izzy turns her day full of mistakes into tasty “mistacos” to be shared with loved ones.
Of the Sun: A Poem for the Land’s First Peoples. By Xelena González. Illus. By Emily Kewageshig. Barefoot Books, $17.99 (9798888596500)
This lyrical poem celebrates the strength and resilience of the First Peoples of the Americas. Vibrant illustrations honor Indigenous children and communities while affirming identity, heritage, and belonging.
Our Lake. By Angie Kang. Illus. by the author. Kokila, $19.99 (9780593698235)
A boy and his older brother contemplate the loss of their father as they prepare to jump in the lake for the first time without him. Everyday family traditions, grief, and memory are honored with dreamy artwork in blues, greens, and yellows. (Caldecott Honor Book)
A Place for Us. By James E. Ransome. Illus. by the author. Nancy Paulsen Books, $18.99 (9780593324882)
A caring mother and son navigate a typical day in a big city—school pick up, dinner, a library visit, finding a safe place to sleep—in a wordless picture book empathetically portraying the experiences of unhoused people.
Pop! Goes the Nursery Rhyme. By Betsy Bird. Illus. by Andrea Tsurumi. Union Square Kids, $18.99 (9781454960461)
A no-nonsense secretary bird sets out to read a classic nursery rhyme book but can’t get through any of them without a feisty weasel loudly interrupting the tales. Packed with skillful cartooning, dramatic page turns, and laugh-out-loud silliness.
Stalactite & Stalagmite: A Big Tale from a Little Cave. By Drew Beckmeyer. Illus. by the author. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9781665926638)
Two cave formations humorously narrate their centuries-long journey, blending science and storytelling in a clever, visually dynamic picture book. (Caldecott Honor Book)
Sundust. By Zeke Peña. Illus. by the author. Kokila, $19.99 (9780593700112)
Poetic text speaks to the vastness of the desert landscape as siblings follow a shimmering trail of sundust into a boundless desert, where they explore luminous landscapes and experience wonder, imagination, and connection with descendents. (Caldecott Honor Book)
This Is Orange: A Field Trip Through Color. By Rachel Poliquin. Illys. by Julie Morstad. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536230529)
A sophisticated informational picture book that details the color orange, its rich history, and its vast presence in our world with a conversational tone that encourages curiosity and wonder.
To See an Owl. By Matthew Cordell. Illus. by the author. Random House Studio, $18.99 (9780593649893)
Encouraged by her teacher, a determined young birder sets out in hopes of spotting an owl. Gentle text and expressive illustrations capture the patience and wonder of observing the natural world.
Troubling Tonsils!. By Aaron Reynolds. Illus. by Peter Brown. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $13.99 (9781665961080)
Jasper the Rabbit is back to share a creepy, cautionary tale about disembodied tonsils — Twilight Zone-style!
Tuck Me In!. By Nathan W. Pyle. Illus. by the author. Random House, $18.99 (9798217029433)
Two bossy beaches on opposite sides of the ocean argue in this funny picture book that playfully explains the moon’s gravity, ocean tides, and the origins of sand castles.
Vida: The Mice, the Cat, and the Alebrije. By Duncan Tonatiuh. Illus. by the author. Abrams Books for Young Readers, $18.99 (9781419764592)
In the city of Mousetepec, brave mouse siblings Vida and Maximo face a dangerous cat with help from colorful alebrijes. Bold artwork and clear storytelling bring this original fable inspired by contemporary Mexican culture to life.
When I Hear Spirituals. By Cheryl Willis Hudson. Illus. by London Ladd. Holiday House, $18.99 (9780823453801)
This picture book celebrates the history and power of African American spirituals, pairing lyrical text with stirring song excerpts. Rich illustrations and extensive back matter invite readers to explore the music’s enduring legacy.
Where Are You, Brontë?. By Tomie dePaola. Illus. by Barbara McClintock. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9781534418509)
Tomie dePaola's last manuscript offers an emotional yet comforting look into the tenderness and devotion he had for his dog, Brontë, and the grief that comes with the loss of his beloved companion.
Where the Deer Slip Through. By Katey Howes. Illus. by Beth Krommes. Beach Lane Books, $19.99 (9781665918275)
Teeming with rhythmic language celebrating animals at play, this poem-turned picture book invites repeated readings. Striking scratchboard illustrations deepen the sensory experience.
Words with Wings and Magic Things. By Matthew Burgess. Illus. by Doug Salati. Tundra Books (NY), $19.99 (9781774880289)
This whimsical, highly-illustrated collection of poems celebrates everyday things and explores how words and pictures can awaken us to a world of wonder and possibility.
You’re a Poet: Ways to Start Writing Poems. By Sean Taylor. Illus. by Sam Usher. Candlewick Press, $18.99 (9781536239331)
Piglet tosses a pebble in a puddle, and instead of water, words splash out. He has written a poem! Brief descriptions of Piglet's adventures become instructions for crafting different styles of poetry.
Zero! The Number That Almost Wasn’t. By Sarah Albee. Illus. by Chris Hsu. Charlesbridge Publishing, $17.99 (9781623544324)
A historically comprehensive and playful deep dive into the mathematical concept of zero. Expressive cartoon-like illustrations integrate with the text in a compelling overview of an often underrepresented topic.
2026 Notable Children's Books Committee
Rebecca (Becki) Bishop, Ph.D., Co-Chair, Campbell Court Elementary School, Bassett, VA
Katy Punch, Co-Chair, Wake County Public Libraries, Raleigh, NC
Brittany Adams, Ph.D., The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL
Patrick Gall, Catherine Cook School, Chicago, IL
Marisela Violeta Garza, Capital Area District Libraries, Lansing, MI
Carla N. Larsen, South Washington County Schools, Retired, Cottage Grove, MN
Anne M. Link, Bristol Elementary School, Webster Groves, MO
Nancy Macías, Alameda County Library, Union City, CA
Kali Olson, The Blake School Early Learning Center, Hopkins, MN
Alicia Rogers, Worcester Public Library, Worcester, MA
Lucinda Whitehurst, St. Christopher’s School, Richmond, VA
Stephanie Howell, Administrative Assistant, Carolina Day School, Asheville, NC
Other ALA Awards
