|
|
|
|
 February 2026 |
|
|
|
| Rumpelstiltskin by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Carson EllisThe traditional fairy tale about a magical trickster and the woman who outwits him gets a fresh take in this retelling. Quirky humor gives the text a contemporary edge, balanced by medieval-inspired illustrations in deep, rich hues. For fans of: The Three Billy Goats Gruff, another fairy tale remix by author Mac Barnett.
|
|
| Because of a Shoe by Julie Fogliano; illustrated by Marla FrazeeIt's a familiar scenario: a parent wants a child to put on shoes, prompting an epic tantrum. Even as patience frays on both sides, unwavering love remains beneath the conflict. Strategically colored illustrations help to convey the changing moods in this cathartic and ultimately reassuring slice of life.
|
|
|
|
Help Me Find My Hamster!
by Brooke Hartman
The narrator is missing their pet hamster, and the snuggable, huggable pint-sized pet was spotted in this book. Fuzzy floof ears, a nibble nubbin nose, precious peanut paws, and a bitty button tail seem to hint that it's somewhere nearby. But do itty bitty ears always belong to a hamster? Prepare to laugh along as clues to the narrator's missing furry friend reveal ever larger and wilder creatures in this surprising story that encourages readers to stretch their imagination, make predictions, and always expect the unexpected.
|
|
|
|
Dinos That Drive
by Suzy Levinson
You've never seen a dinosaur that's into driving cars? Well, buckle up! Brontosaurus, Triceratops, Aquilops, and friends are all here to show off their driving, flying, and diving skills in this riotous mashup of reptiles and things that go. Kirkus Reviews call this "a delightful combo of fun and facts about reptiles on the road."
|
|
| I'm So Happy You're Here: A Celebration of Library Joy by Mychal Threets; illustrated by Lorraine NamIn his first picture book, librarian Mychal Threets -- social media star and host of Reading Rainbow -- invites an inclusive community of kids and grown-ups to experience "library joy" through books, storytimes, games, and other activities. This warm, welcoming book is equally suited to group sharing or a one-on-on read. Read-alikes: Lisa Katzenberger's A Love Letter to My Library; Alexandra Penfold's All Are Welcome.
|
|
| Dalmartian by Lucy Ruth CumminsWhile visiting Earth, an alien who resembles a green-spotted Dalmatian is adopted by human child Stephen. There's confusion—the alien walks on two legs and is appalled by dog park antics—but understanding grows as boy and alien bond. Playful humor and charming minimalist illustrations distinguish this transplanetary tale.
|
|
| Chooch Helped by Andrea L. Rogers; illustrated by Rebecca Lee KunzSissy, an older Indigenous girl, doesn't understand why her little brother Chooch gets away with everything! His so-called "help" only messes things up. As her temper flares, Sissy's family offers support and perspective. Book buzz: Featuring textured illustrations filled with Cherokee imagery, this relatable sibling story is the winner of the 2025 Caldecott Medal, as well as the 2026 American Indian Youth Literature Award for picture books.
|
|
|
|
Shhh! the Baby's Asleep
by Janay Brown-Wood
Baby is finally asleep, and Mama creeps out of the room, then rushes to shush each member of the household making everyday noises. When they are all finally quiet, baby wakes up—and it is up to big brother Dante to find the right book to read so everyone can get some rest. Kirkus Reviews calls it "delightful comic relief for every household with a baby."
|
|
| Lost by Bob StaakeStylized, expressive artwork tells the story in this wordless picture book about a child seeking a lost cat. While hanging up posters, she encounters owners of other lost pets—from a bird to a dog to a giraffe— all of whom are reunited by the final page.
|
|
| A Pinecone! by Helen YoonA dad is busy wrangling a very muddy dog, leaving his daughter free to pursue her obsession: collecting pinecones. But where can she store them all? While the slapstick humor in this story will elicit giggles, the substance will ring true for young collectors. For fans of: Off-Limits, also by Helen Yoon and featuring the same parent-child duo.
|
|
|
|
|
|