Picture Books
February 2026

New and Recently Released!
Rumpelstiltskin by Mac Barnett book cover
Rumpelstiltskin
by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Carson Ellis

The 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.
 
Calm Your Roar Like a Dinosaur: How to Relax Muscle by Muscle by Colleen A. Patterson book cover
Calm Your Roar Like a Dinosaur: How to Relax Muscle by Muscle
by Colleen A. Patterson

With its playful rhyme, Calm Your Roar presents a super fun and playful easy-to-learn skill that benefits dinos of all ages, guaranteed to turn dinosaurs into relaxosaurs, even those with the biggest roars!
I'm So Happy You're Here: A Celebration of Library Joy by Michael Threets book cover
I'm So Happy You're Here: A Celebration of Library Joy
by Mychal Threets; illustrated by Lorraine Nam

In 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.
 
Not a Spot to Spot: The True Story of Kipekee, the Giraffe Born Without Spots by Elizabeth Weiss Verdick book cover.
Not a Spot to Spot: The True Story of Kipekee, the Giraffe Born Without Spots
by Elizabeth Weiss Verdick

When a reticulated giraffe is born without spots, her differences are celebrated, and she is named Kipekee, meaning 'unique' in Swahili.
Gymnastica Fantastica! by Briony Stewart book cover
Gymnastica Fantastica!
by Briony Stewart

An exuberant picture book that encourages kids to bend, stretch, tumble, and flip! Quick! Come and see! Something fabulous, it's...me! Meet Gymnastica, a small person with big energy, as they bend and balance, bounce and roll, attempt a cartwheel and a spectacular trapeze flip-out finale. Written in playful rhyming text and with bright and energetic illustrations, this high-spirited picture book is sure to be an irresistible read aloud that inspires kids to embrace the tumbles that come with putting on a perfectly imperfect show.
Specs by Van G. Garrett
Specs
by Van G. Garrett

In this playful and joyful ode to specs of all kinds, young readers follow one girl on her journey of acceptance and join the fun of picking the perfect pair of glasses.
Retro Reads
Check out these awesome books from the not-so-distant past!
 
Dalmartian by Lucy Ruth Cummins book cover
Dalmartian
by Lucy Ruth Cummins

While 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 book cover
Chooch Helped
by Andrea L. Rogers; illustrated by Rebecca Lee Kunz

Sissy, 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.
 
My Thoughts Have Wings by Maggie Smith book cover
My Thoughts Have Wings
by Maggie Smith; illustrated by Leanne Hatch

When anxious thoughts flood her too-busy brain at bedtime, a child receives some helpful advice from mom: worrying is normal, but it helps to make space for happy, peaceful thoughts too. Kids (and adults) who appreciate this sweetly accessible read from poet Maggie Smith may also enjoy Whatever Comes Tomorrow by Rebecca Gardyn Levington.
 
Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
Longwood Public Library800 Middle Country RoadMiddle Island, New York 11953
(631) 924-6400

longwoodlibrary.org