Picture Books
February 2026

Recent Releases
Rumpelstiltskin
by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Carson Ellis

The traditional fairy tale about a magical trickster and the woman who outwits him gets a fresh take in this retelling. Quirky humor gives the text a contemporary edge, balanced by medieval-inspired illustrations in deep, rich hues. For fans of: The Three Billy Goats Gruff, another fairy tale remix by author Mac Barnett.
 
Because of a Shoe
by Julie Fogliano; illustrated by Marla Frazee

It'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.
 
The Dangerous Alphabet Book by Dk Ryland
The Dangerous Alphabet Book
by Dk Ryland

An Amazon Best Book of the Month From Diabolical Dart Frogs to Perilous Piranhas, here's a unique, humorous alphabet book featuring a dangerous yet feisty cast of characters that will have readers gleefully giggling their way through the alphabet Adorable Avocado, our sweet narrator, is rudely interrupted by Angry Alligator who intends to throw the orderly world of the alphabet into sheer chaos. From A to Z, the two competing characters argue over what's better: Elegant Eggplants or Eerie Electric Eels? Kissing Kiwis or Killer King Cobras? With each letter providing a new zany battle between the delightful and the dangerous, and an unexpected twist ending, readers ages 3 to 7 will be on the edges of their seats as they relish this alphabet adventure. In this fresh and funny twist on a classic alphabet book, a hilarious cast of characters with loads of personality takes something expected--the alphabet--and spins it into a wildly unexpected story that readers will reach for over and over.
My Dinosaur Shoes by Eleni Tassopoulos Wehner
My Dinosaur Shoes
by Eleni Tassopoulos Wehner

When Roscoe's perfect puppy shoes get too small, he gets a new pair of dinosaur shoes. These shoes are different, and new things can be scary. But Roscoe's sister Ivy knows how to help him get used to his new shoes.
Shmoof by Heidi McKinnon
Shmoof
by Heidi McKinnon

Today is a very special day because it's when Shmoof meets Floof! But Floof isn't ready to be best friends. They don't have anything in common. Until their fear of a very scary household item is the only thing they can agree on!--Provided by publisher.
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!
Haddonfield Public Library
60 Haddon Ave, Haddonfield, New Jersey 08033
856-429-1304

www.haddonfieldlibrary.org/