Picture Books
July 2026
Recent Releases
Toad on the Go by Jashar Awan
Toad on the Go
by Jashar Awan

We all make mistakes, and we can all work to repair them -- just like tow truck driver Toad does after his overeager driving leads to a fender-bender. This sequel to Towed by Toad offers further rambunctious, read-aloud rhymes paired with a relatable message.
Turtle with a Toolbox by Beth Ferry
Turtle with a Toolbox
by Beth Ferry; illustrated by Dudolf

Using his handy toolbox shell, adorably round-headed Turtle is building something, and each of his animal friends has a unique skill to contribute. Filled with fun-to-say construction sounds and soft, sweet illustrations, this teamwork-focused series opener is "just what the toddler ordered" (Kirkus Reviews).
We Are Joy by Chrystal D. Giles
We Are Joy
by Chrystal D. Giles; illustrated by Kitt Thomas

Told through elegant, poetic words and swirling, jewel-toned illustrations, this affirming picture book celebrates all the facets of Black joy. On each spread, Black children are shown with their loved ones as they play, eat, learn, protest, and revel in the resilience and warmth of community. Read-alikes: Tami Charles' All Because You Matter; Natasha Tarpley's The Me I Choose to Be.
Searching for Wocks by Lucy Knisley
Searching for Wocks
by Lucy Knisley

Follow along with a self-declared "expert at wock-finding" as they lead their adult caregiver on a neighborhood treasure hunt, filling their pockets with the most "rare and precious" rocks they discover. Young geologists and collectors will be charmed by this celebration of curiosity. Read-alike: A Pocket Full of Rocks by Kristin Mahoney.
Bear Hair by Jeff Mack
Bear Hair
by Jeff Mack

A large brown bear, a fuzzy pink hare, and the shaggy blue wig they both covet set the stage for laugh-out-loud funny riffs on bear/bare and hair/hare. Plain backgrounds emphasize the meticulously detailed character illustrations which accompany creator Jeff Mack's distinctive wordplay. This riotous, tongue-twisting exploration of homophones is color-coded for emerging readers. Try these next: Cece Bell's Yam and Donkey books.
The Sweetest of Lemons by Daniel Nayeri
The Sweetest of Lemons
by Daniel Nayeri; illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell

During a long car journey, a child listens to a storyteller's yarn about a giant, a princess, a quest, and a lemon so sweet it can cure sadness. Traditional Persian motifs in both the artwork and storytelling style add specificity and depth to the nested stories within this enchanting picture book.
Welcome to Our Classroom! (an All Are Welcome Book) by Alexandra Penfold
Welcome to Our Classroom!
by Alexandra Penfold; illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman

Told from the perspective of a kind, supportive teacher, this affirming book follows a diverse class through the discoveries and challenges of a school year. Simple rhymes and an upbeat tone make this a reassuring read for kids who feel anxious about starting (or returning to) school. Previously in this series: All Are Welcome, Big Feelings, All Are Neighbors, Wherever You Go.
The Big One by Dashka Slater
The Big One
by Dashka Slater; illustrated by Myo Yim

During the search for the elusive "Big One," no one bets on Marina and Nana, the fishing village's smallest and oldest residents, respectively. But the unorthodox duo is determined, and what they find is greater than any legendary catch. Detailed, atmospheric illustrations enhance this exciting and (literally) immersive sea story.
Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
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