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Picture Books February 2026 |
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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. Read-alikes: Lisa Katzenberger's A Love Letter to My Library; Alexandra Penfold's All Are Welcome.
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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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| 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.
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Magick Hoodoo Child
by Amber McBride; illustrated by Violeta Encarnación
You'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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| 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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| 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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The Littlest Drop
by Sascha Alper; illustrated by Jerry Pinkney and Brian Pinkney
When their home turf catches fire, most of the animals flee. Only the tiny hummingbird tries to douse the blaze, one drop at a time, ultimately inspiring the other creatures to join in. Striking illustrations combine the distinctive styles of Brian Pinkney and his late father, Jerry Pinkney, to retell this uplifting old parable about cooperation.
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Broken
by X. Fang
While playing at her grandmother's house, Mei Mei accidentally breaks Ama's favorite teacup. Ama blames the judgmental cat, Mimi, but the child's guilt might be too big to bear. Expressive illustrations rife with dramatic angles highlight both the comedy and the discomfort in Mei Mei's situation, while a conclusion focused on honesty and repair will leave readers reassured. Read-alike: Accident! by Andrea Tsurumi.
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Cat Nap
by Brian Lies
After the determined Kitten chases a mouse into a poster for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, their pursuit takes on the styles of ten iconic masterpieces. Kids don’t need any museum knowledge to be fascinated by the hilarious, arresting illustrations (which include stained glass, ceramics, wooden masks, and more), all rendered in meticulous three-dimensional detail by Caldecott Honoree Brian Lies.
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Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
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