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Picture Books February 2026 |
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The Wildest Thing
by Emily Winfield Martin
What would you do if you let the wild in? Eleanor loved wild things. Every wing and wild sprout. There was something wild inside of her, waiting to come out... With gorgeous illustrations, this book is the ideal addition to any bedtime reading routine or read aloud. The Wildest Thing beautifully expresses a timeless message about little ones unleashing their inner wild and encouraging their budding imagination and unique individuality.
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Tulip's Mess
by Anden Wilder
A little girl must confront her growing mess after it swallows her most beloved stuffed toy--
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The Language of Birds
by Jon-Erik Lappano
A moving picture book about an anxious girl who can talk to birds but finds it hard to talk to people. When a new boy at school connects with trees the way she does with birds, they begin to form a friendship. Mira speaks to the birds. As a baby, she napped in the park where starlings gathered. Before she was two, she could mimic the sounds of the doves. Birds have always made sense to Mira, unlike people who are much more confusing. When Mira tries to talk to them, her words remain out of reach. Mostly, people leave her alone. But when a new boy named Jad comes to school, Mira notices that he understands trees the way she does birds. He's different. And as they draw together, Mira is able, at last, to make a friend. Here is a beautiful, layered picture book that speaks to the need for connection and the many forms it can take.
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Don't Do It, Doug!
by Maudie Powell-Tuck
Doug the hamster struggles with self-control and has to deal with the consequences of his impulsive actions.
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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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| 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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| 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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| My Thoughts Have Wings by Maggie Smith; illustrated by Leanne HatchWhen 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.
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| Lost by Bob StaakeStylized, 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.
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César's Cerulean Surprise
by Jenny Lacika
Câesar asks to borrow Gabi's cerulean crayon, but Gabi does not know what cerulean is and decides to identify the color by asking yes-no questions.
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Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
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Albert Lea Public Library
211 E Clark St.
Albert Lea, Minnesota 56007
(507) 377-4350alplonline.org |
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