• 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

  • How to Hatch: A Gosling’s Guide to Breaking Free

    How to Hatch: A Gosling’s Guide to Breaking Free

    written by Sara Holly Ackerman, illustrated by Galia Bernstein

    32 pages, 3–7 years; published 2026 by Knopf Books for Young Readers

    How to Hatch: A Gosling’s Guide to Breaking Free uniquely pairs facts with humorous words of encouragement directed at a goose egg. This story works great as a read-a-loud with its engaging tone, interjections, and page design. The larger text and images allow groups to observe all the beautiful details of Bernstein’s illustrations. Ackerman’s non-fiction content in bright colored sidebars will satisfy teachers and curious kids. Overall, a fun and informative read.

  • “Show me a family of readers, and I will show you the people who move the world.”

    —Napoleon Bonaparte

  • Just in Case: Saving Seeds in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault

    Just in Case: Saving Seeds in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault

    written by Megan Clendenan, illustrated by Brittany Cicchese

    32 pages, 6–8 years; published 2025 by Charlesbridge Publishing

    Just in Case: Saving Seeds In The Svalbard Global Seed Vault proves once again that a non-fiction picture book can educate everyone. I loved learning about this global safe house for seeds. Megan Clendenan’s text is informative and engaging. She talks about the diversity of plants found across countries and cultures as well as the need for safeguarding seeds. Brittany Cicchese’s illustrations add a mystical quality to the story of this complex undertaking. Extensive back matter provides more details on the Svalbard Vault as well as examples of natural disasters that threatened other seed banks. This book is sure to inform, and motivate, readers of all ages. 

  • “If you live to be 100, I hope I live to be 100 minus 1 day, so I never have to live without you.”

    —from Winnie-the-Pooh by A. A. Milne

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