Picture Books February 2026 |
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| 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.
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| Magick Hoodoo Child by Amber McBride; illustrated by Violeta EncarnaciónYou're invited to join young Juniper as she spends a "rootwork summer" with her beloved Grandma, who teaches her about herbalism, magick, and the history of hoodoo. Richly colored illustrations by Violeta Encarnación pair with an empowering story in this picture book debut from award-winning novelist (and hoodoo practitioner) Amber McBride.
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| Aaniin: I See Your Light by Dawn Quigley; illustrated by Nanibah ChaconAaniin: it's an Ojibwe greeting, and also an acknowledgment that means "I see your light." With illustrations that pair children with animal exemplars, this empathetic and encouraging book highlights the Ojibwe Seven Grandfather Teachings to remind young readers of all that they are and all that they can be. Read-alike: Little Rebels by Yuyi Morales.
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| 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.
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Can You Do This? (Bedtime Edition): An Imagination Play Book by Megan RoyPerfect for creating a soothing bedtime ritual, this book encourages kids to relax their bodies and quiet their minds, paving the way for a restful night's sleep. Whether it's reading together or saying goodnight to toes, ears, and everything in between.
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A Friendship Yarn by Lisa MoserPorcupine and Badger have always been the best of friends, so when Porcupine finds some yarn in the woods, she makes a present for Badger. And when Badger finds yarn, she makes a present for Porcupine. The only problem? It’s the same yarn—and to finish the gift, they each must unravel the other’s creation. An act of kindness turns into a fierce standoff as the friendship frays—can Porcupine and Badger set aside their differences and knit themselves back together?
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Tractors in Space
by Ross MacKay
A laugh-out-loud picture book about dreams, friendship, and spectacularly silly space tractors - perfect for kids 3-5. Life on the farm is fun, but Toby the tractor has a much bigger dream... He's going to space! Join Toby in his out-of-this-world adventure as he explores the wonders of our universe, races through asteroids, and discovers unexpected new friends along the way. With heaps of heart and hilarious illustrations by 2024 Lollies award-winning artist, Alex Willmore, budding astronauts and tractor lovers will delight in getting to know their new tractor friends while exploring space and our solar system. This funny picture book will have little ones giggling from lift-off to landing - a read-aloud they'll ask for again and again.
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| 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.
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The Book That Almost Rhymed
by Omar Abed; illustrated by Hatem Aly
Creative chaos ensues when a little sister puts her stamp on the book her big brother has written: "She ruined every rhyming verse, so now my story sounds much -- MORE MAGNIFICENT!" Color-coded dialogue and energetic illustrations add to the laugh-out-loud fun.
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The Digger and the Dark
by Joseph Kuefler
Digger and the other trucks are ready for bed until two mischievous raccoons appear who are not tired--AT ALL--and the big machines decide just a few more minutes of playtime won't hurt--will it?
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| 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.
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| 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.
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We Are Definitely Human
by X. Fang
When a flying saucer crashes on their farm, Mr. and Mrs. Li are ready to help, never questioning the big-eyed, blue-and-pink passengers, who insist that they're human beings from "Europe." A blend of sweetness and sly humor make this fable about kindness a standout.
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