Picture Books
February 2026

Recent Releases
How to Find a Yeti by Matt Hunt
How to Find a Yeti
by Matt Hunt

Yetis aren't real...or are they? Get an epic game of hide and seek in bestselling author Matt Hunt's latest picture book. Some people don't believe in yetis, but this little boy does - in fact, he's a yeti expert, and today he's going out into the forest to find one and prove it. He searches over here and over there, up high and down low, but there is just no yeti to be found. Not today, and probably not EVER. Or is there...? Readers of all ages can join in the hunt for the elusive yeti. Can you find one?
Bored by Felicita Sala
Bored
by Felicita Sala

A very bored girl becomes less so when she starts to imagine all the bored people in the world floating away together to boredom-fueled adventures.
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.
 
Retro Reads
Check out these awesome books from the not-so-distant past!
 
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; 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; 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.
 
Lost
by Bob Staake

Stylized, 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. Read-alike: Bruce Handy's Balloon.
 
Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
The Smithtown Library
1 North Country Road, Smithtown, New York 11787
(631) 360-2480

www.smithlib.org