• I’m So Happy You’re Here: A Celebration of Library Joy

    I’m So Happy You’re Here: A Celebration of Library Joy

    written by by Mychal Threets, illustrated by Lorraine Nam

    32 pages, 4–8 years; published 2026 by Penguin Random House Books for Young Readers

    Mychal Threets has been spreading library joy for years. Threets’ first picture book reaffirms his love of reading and libraries. The story emphasizes the ways in which a library welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s a safe space everyone can utilize to help them thrive. Nam uses a bright rainbow palette to illustrate the diversity of patrons and fun found at libraries. Readers are encouraged to get their own library card so they too can feel proud to be a part of this wonderful public institution. I’m So Happy You’re Here is a powerful affirmation for children everywhere.

  • “If stories come to you, care for them. And learn to give them away where they are needed. Sometimes a person needs a story more than food to stay alive.”

    —from Crow and Weasel by Barry Lopez

  • Emmie Builds Something New

    Emmie Builds Something New

    written & illustrated by Marjorie Crosby-Fairall

    44 pages, 4–7 years; published 2025 by Red Comet Press

    This book delivers a visual delight from the moment you lay eyes on the cover. Emmie Builds Something New focuses on the ingenuity of a tiny mouse. Emmie uses her wit and grit to build fabulous inventions with found materials. Marjorie Crosby-Fairall uses her creativity to render beautiful, intricate illustrations with delightful details on every page. This story shows how even the smallest minds can conceive big ideas, and even the unlikeliest of creatures can build a friendship.

  • “Sometimes one must ravel far to discover what is near.”

    —from The Treasure by Uri Shulevitz

  • The Mermaid: How Sirena Learned to Swim

    The Mermaid: How Sirena Learned to Swim

    written by by Patty Brozo, illustrated by Annie Bowler

    40 pages, 5–9 years; published 2026 by Tilbury House Publishers

    A relatable story about a girl’s fear of the water while on a family vacation. Sirena’s grandfather makes an unexpected presence one morning in an effort to coax her into the lake. His strategy is allowing Sirena to join him at her own pace. Brozo does a wonderful job of establishing Poppo’s personality in just a few words and gestures. Readers will feel the bond between grandfather and granddaughter and identify with the gradual comfort Sirena gains. Theres’s an especially nice wordless spread where Bowler’s illustrations reinforce the trust and enjoyment these characters share. The Mermaid: How Sirena Learned to Swim is a great summer read.

  • “I think picture books should stretch children. I think they should be full of wonderful, amazing words.”

    —Jane Yolen

  • Don’t Trust Fish

    Don’t Trust Fish

    written by by Neil Sharpson, illustrated by Dan Santat

    40 pages, 3–7 years; published 2025 by Dial Book for Young Readers (Penguin Random House)

    The sarcastic tone of this book is half its charm. I love that it begins by sharing non-fiction information about animals in a simplified and direct way. This makes the warnings about fish even more comical. Sharpson does a wonderful job of giving you reasons to doubt the integrity of fish while continuing to pepper facts about them throughout the story. Santat amps up the fun with realistic images to accompany the animal facts and humorous, exaggerated images for the accusations. In the end, readers will learn, and laugh, and wonder if crabs are really our true concern. Don’t Trust Fish is a picture book read-a-loud gem!

  • “Think before you speak. Read before you think.”

    —Fran Lebowitz

  • Fireworks

    Fireworks

    written by by Matthew Burgess , illustrated by Cátia Chien

    44 pages, 4–8 years; published 2025 by Clarion Books/Harper Collins Publishers

    A lovely lyrical take of a hot summer’s day. We follow two siblings as they enjoy the simple pleasures of the afternoon which culminate in a rooftop, evening fireworks display. Burgess peppers onomatopoeia moments throughout the story. These fun sounds, paired with Chien’s bold illustrations, create a joy for both the ears and eyes. A dynamic page spread adds an additional surprise for readers. Fireworks reminds everyone to embrace the unique treats of summertime.

  • “Some books leave us free and some books make us free.”

    —Ralph Waldo Emerson

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