Picture Books
December 2025

Recent Releases
Lena the Chicken (But Really a Dinosaur!)
by Linda Bailey; illustrated by K-Fai Steele

Unlike her fearful, feathered family, spirited Lena knows that she's not a chicken in name or nature -- she's a mighty dinosaur! And when the coop is threatened, she has the chance to prove it. Get ready to roar: with dramatic dialogue and "gloriously goofy" (Publishers Weekly) artwork, Lena's story is an ideal read-aloud.
Mama Car
by Lucy Catchpole; illustrated by Karen George

In this endearing story, a child describes how her family gets around. She’s got a tricycle, and Daddy drives a "big car," while Mama uses a "Mama Car": a manual wheelchair. Based on author Lucy Catchpole’s own parenting experience, Mama Car offers a cozy and matter-of-fact look at disability within family life.
 
The Weedflower by Elizabeth Davaze
The Weedflower
by Elizabeth Davaze

A modern schoolyard fable about nature's magical ability to encourage imagination, play, and joy--and a dandelion's ability to always grow back One day on the gray school playground, Sam notices something new. Against all odds, a little flower has sprouted in between the concrete and rubber turf. Sam adores the tiny bud. She sings to it, admires it, and watches it bloom into a bright yellow flower that's ultimately too large to hide. Soon the other students notice it, too. Under their care, the flower thrives, illuminating the gloomy playground and eventually--magically--changing into one perfect fluffball that dances in the wind. But when the adults take notice, they decide it has to go ... A sunny story with warm illustrations that will encourage readers to take notice of the natural world, The Weedflower makes for a great read-aloud. It will tie in well with environmental and character education curriculum while also highlighting the positive role that nature plays in our lives.
Vida: The Mice, the Cat, and the Alebrije
by Duncan Tonatiuh

When a feline interloper casts a pall over the once-vibrant town of Mousetepec, two mouse siblings use color, creativity, and community to fight back. Depicted in creator Duncan Tonatiuh's dramatic, distinctive, pre-Columbian art style, this modern fable is "utterly mesmerizing" (Kirkus Reviews). Read-alike: Brave as a Mouse by Nicolò Carozzi. 
 
Easy Reader Roundup
Ty's Travels: Super Ty!
by Kelly Starling Lyons; illustrated by Niña Mata

When superhero fan Ty dons his own cape and mask, he utilizes the superpowers he already has: kindness and imagination. Accessible word choices and repeated phrases make this heartwarming story a confidence-boosting choice for beginning readers. Series alert: This is book 8 in the award-winning Ty's Travels series, but kids can read these standalone stories in any order.
 
Earl & Worm: The Bad Idea and Other Stories
by Greg Pizzoli

Gregarious, saxophone-playing bird Earl and reticent, bookish Worm go from dubious neighbors to odd-couple BFFs in this droll series kickoff. Sporting cartoony, pastel-colored illustrations and a three-part structure, this easy reader will encourage readers who are almost ready for chapter books. Next in the series: The Big Mess and Other Stories; Snow Problem and Other Stories.
 
Makeda Makes a Mountain
by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich; illustrated by Lydia Mba 

After her family does a big de-cluttering, inventive Makeda decides to repurpose some of the old items, inspiring an upcycling spree for her friends and classmates. This upbeat, beginner-friendly read, the 3rd in a series, will grab fans of Andrea Beaty's Questioneers books. Previously in the series: Makeda Makes a Birthday Treat and Makeda Makes a Home for Subway.
 
Squid in Pants
by Kaz Windness

When stylish Squid and his sea creature pals swipe some clothes from an unwary snorkeler, they create wild, customized garments, and even include the original owner in the resulting fashion show. Rhythm and rhyme enhance the easy-to-understand text of this playful graphic novel for beginning readers.
 
Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
Newmarket Library
438 Park Ave.
Newmarket, Ontario L3Y1W1
905-953-5110

www.newmarketpl.ca