Cardington-Lincoln Public Library: Picture Books: February 2026

Now available on our shelves or on the Libby app...

Kayla and Kugel's Almost-Perfect Passover
by Ann Koffsky

Sweet, endearing, colorful illustrations bring out the humor in the actions of the puppy, who is clearly loved as an equal member of his young family. - Kirkus ReviewsKayla loves having Passover seder with her family and her dog, Kugel--even though he almost spills the grape juice, makes a mess of the matzah, and takes off with the afikoman! This story touches on the highlights of the Passover seder with warmth and humor.An author note at the end explores how Passover songs can lift our spirits and help us imagine how our great-, great-, great-, great-, great- (lots of greats) grandparents felt when they became free. Discussion prompts help children relate the ideas to their own lives.

Every Monday Mabel: (Caldecott Honor)
by Jashar Awan

Every Monday Mabel takes her breakfast outside and waits for her favorite part of the week: the garbage truck.

The Moon Moved in
by Sue Soltis

When the Moon moves into the empty house next door, Stella finally gets the friend she longed for, but as the Moon's absence affects the rest of the world, Stell must make a difficult decision--

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.

A Pinecone!
by Helen Yoon

A 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.

Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!