Picture Books February 2026 |
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| Rumpelstiltskin by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Carson EllisThe 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.
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| Because of a Shoe by Julie Fogliano; illustrated by Marla FrazeeIt'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.
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Proud Dog
by Sharon Davey
A heartwarming and hilarious picture book that celebrates the joy of family! Meet Dorothy, a loving dog with two wonderful dads. Her life is filled with long walks, bubbly bath times, and splendid dinner parties. She takes pride in helping her dads with everything, ensuring their days are filled with fun. But everything changes when her dads bring home a new addition--a noisy, floppy, screechy, smelly baby! Dorothy's world is turned upside down as the family's routine is thrown into chaos. No more long walks, no more relaxing baths, and mealtimes become a whirlwind of activity. Determined to restore order, Dorothy tries her best to help her dads around the house, but nothing seems to work. The baby continues to disrupt their lives, and Dorothy misses the calm days when it was just her and her dads. All it takes, though, is one sweet moment for Dorothy to realize that the baby might not be so bad after all. With newfound love and understanding, Dorothy embraces the baby as her best little buddy and proudly parades her family's excellent training to the world. Proud Dog is a delightful tale of love, adaptation, and the unbreakable bond of family.
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There Is Not Usually a Hole: (A Playful Read-Aloud about New Friendships and Sharing - For Preschoolers, Kindergarteners, and Kids Ages 3-5)
by Daisy Hirst
A quirky, fun, and surreal story about new friendships (and snacks) for all curious little adventurers. Betsy and her stuffed crocodile Philippa are out on a walk, when Betsy points to the ground. There is not usually a hole. Then something comes out of the hole. It is a banana. Followed by a number of other unexpected items. Betsy is content to watch what happens, but when Philippa disappears down the hole, Betsy has to go find her. From master picture book creator Daisy Hirst comes a story of friendship and sharing, and realizing that more is indeed merrier.
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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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Henry Is an Artist
by Justin Worsley
Each day on his walk, Henry the dog creates art that goes unappreciated until his work is discovered by a new audience.
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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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| A Pinecone! by Helen YoonA 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.
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Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
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