Picture Books
March 2026

Recent Releases
Loops
by Jashar Awan

Solid-colored backdrops and bold, chunky artwork invite readers to focus on the sole character in this story: a child who's determined to tie the laces on his first pair of big-kid shoes. An upbeat tale of persistence in the face of frustration.
The Future Book
by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Shawn Harris

In this picture book from two popular creators, the future is here, and it's goofier than anyone imagined. Oranges are now "bloranges," "Charlie Cheese Face" is a common name, and saying thanks involves…a fish? This "solemnly silly look at social norms" (Publishers Weekly) is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
 
Bartleby
by Matt Phelan

Bartleby the bear stands out among his classmates, not only because of his bright red bowler hat, but also because of his quiet response to most invitations: "I would prefer not to." Inspired by Herman Melville's classic short story, Bartleby offers a kid-friendly take on thoughtful participation and self-determination.
 
Here Come the Aunties!
by Cynthia Leitich Smith; illustrated by Aphelandra

Kinship extends beyond biology in this celebration of community. Readers follow a year in the life of River, a Muscogee child, and meet all the "aunties" who care for him through affection, shared skills, and everyday support. Richly colored mixed-media illustrations add to the story's warm, lived-in feel.
 
The Dream
by Gideon Sterer; illustrated by Nik Henderson

Dismayed by environmental damage, a young girl encounters a wolf and experiences a fantastical vision of how animals and humans might find solidarity. Intricately textured illustrations of surreal, oversized animals amplify the dreamlike nature of this wordless tale. 
Graphic Novels for Beginning Readers
A Pair of Parrots
by David A. Adler; illustrated by Clarice Elliott

When Ava’s new pet parrot escapes, Ava and her mom pair up to find the missing bird, leading them to discover further dynamic duos (and trios). Starring a clever young wheelchair user, this comic book easy reader introduces simple math concepts while telling an upbeat story. 
The Fix-Its: Nail Needs Help by Sarah Lynne Reul
The Fix-Its: Nail Needs Help
by Sarah Lynne Reul

Just when anxious, anthropomorphic Nail starts worrying that he’ll never get free from the wood he’s been driven into, the best-suited tool from the box saves the day.  Short, colorful, and packed with easy-to-read speech balloons, this gently funny easy reader is sure to charm.
Duckie & Snaps: We Cannot Be Friends
by Ame Dyckman; illustrated by Tim Miller

"Filled with humor and heart, Duckie and Snaps' antics will naturally garner comparisons to Elephant and Piggie and serve the same beginning-reader audience. This tale of friendship reminds children and grown-ups alike that while we are all different, we can still be friends. A fabulous start to a series that young readers will eagerly enjoy." -- Booklist
 
Dog Gets a Pet: Ready-To-Read Graphics Level 1 by Jeff Mack
Dog Gets a Pet: Ready-To-Read Graphics Level 1
by Jeff Mack

Pony has a surprise for Dog -- a pet rock! Dog would have preferred a T-Rex, or a moose, or a cow for a pet, but Pony says if Dog gives the pet rock a name, Dog will like it more. Dog names his pet rock Lulu the T-Rex and says it likes to eat ponies. Uh-oh. Will Dog and Pony and Lulu learn to get along?  "Jeff Mack’s exceptional skills are well-utilized in this new series for early graphic novel readers . . . A delightful, zany tale . . . sure to please emerging or beginner comic fans."
– School Library Journal, 5/1/25
Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends
by Kaz Windness

Caterpillar and Worm are BFFs who share a lot in common, but Caterpillar knows those similarities will disappear soon. Will Worm still want to be friends when Butterfly emerges? (Spoiler alert: of course!) Cartoon art brings even more joy to this easy-reading, friendship-focused comic.
Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!