Hundreds of fantastic picture books are released every year and it can be so easy to miss some of the very best that hit the shelves. The twenty books below are all titles that are fantastic in their own way and are definitely worthy of looking up. They are creative, wonderfully illustrated and even inspiring. If you are looking for some new books to check out from the library to switch up your story time routine, these are the ones for you!
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Pop! by Jason Carter Eaton and Matt Rockefeller- What lengths would you go to in order to make sure that every last bubble that you blow is popped?! This imaginative tale is super creative and has a fun, surprise ending.
The Frog in the Well by Alvin Tresselt and Roger Duvoisin- This new edition of an old classic is beautifully done as it tells the story of a frog who finally ventures outside “the known” only to discover many delightful and wonderful things he was missing before.
Stories in a Seashell by Alex Nogues Otero and Silvia Cabestany- This imaginative little book dreams up all the fascinating and incredible things you could possibly hear in a seashell in addition to the idea that you can “hear the ocean” when you listen inside.
Ba-Chan The Ninja Grandma by Sanae Ishida- Such a creative and fun book about the relationship between an eccentric Ninja grandma and her grandchildren. One that is sure to make you smile.
Ebenezer Has a Word for Everything by Chelsea H. Rowe and Frank Dormer- Ebenezer LOVES words and this delightful story all about him is perfect for little bookworms who love words too.
The Wheels on the…Uh-Oh! by Sue Tarsky and Alex Willmore- Written to the melody of “The Wheels on the Bus” this book can be sung or read and is a huge success with my littlest.
T. Rex Time Machine by Jared Chapman- This one is hilarious! It tells the story of two T-Rexes who accidentally set-off a time machine and end up in the present day world. Always good for a giggle or two!
The Dreamer by Il Sung Na- Inspirational and thought provoking, this one is a definite winner. It encourages everyone to dream big and never give up. Plus, the illustrations are dreamy.
Kahlida and the Most Beautiful Song by Amanda Moeckel- Kahlida is a young girl who loves music and is one day struck with a song inside that she feels the urge to play. It proves slippery to catch at first, but eventually she is greatly rewarded with the opportunity of brining it to life.
One Day on Our Blue Planet in the Ocean by Ella Bailey- This beautifully illustrated nonfiction book about the ocean is a great little introduction for young children on the wonders o the sea.
Under the Silver Moon: Lllulabys, Night Songs & Poems by Pamela Dalton- A collection of poetry that is perfect for bedtime and features lots of lovely classics that every child should know. The illustrations have a timeless feel to them and are wonderful.
Little Whale by Jo Weaver- “Little Whale” is both informative and heart warming as it tells the tale of a mother whale protecting and guiding her baby through their migration. It features a limited color palette and a soothing tone.
There’s a Hole in My Garden by James Stewart- Perfect for curious kiddos, this book centers around a hole that a little boy finds that just keeps growing and growing throughout the year. It will have children on the edge-of-their seat to see just how wide it will grow and what else the little boy observing it could possibly fit inside. Definitely fun!
Oliver The Second-Largest Living Thing on Earth by Josh Crute and John Taesoo Kim- Sometimes it feels like things like titles can separate us, but we really have more in common with others than we may think. This book encourages us to look at our similarities rather than comparing unimportant characteristics.
Door by Jihyeon Lee- A joyful celebration of diversity and uniqueness. I just adore this wordless picture book and the journey that it takes you on. Definitely one worth looking up!
A Dog Named Doug by Karma Wilson and Matt Myers- Doug is a dog who loves to dig. So, he digs and digs and digs. A simple book with a simple concept that manages to be totally and completely entertaining.
The Strongest Mom by Nicola Kent- Moms are truly strong individuals, but sometimes even moms need a little bit of help. This sweet book is on a mission to help children foster some empathy for their mothers and it is done in such a gentle and heart warming way.
Mary Had a Little Lab by Sue Fliess and Petros Bouloubasis- This is a fun twist on the classic tale “Mary had a Little Lamb” and highlights a female protagonist who is intelligent and involved in the field of scientist. A fun book with a dash of “girl power” on the side.
Quiet by Tomie dePaola- Everything about this beautiful book is peaceful and restful. It makes a great introduction on mindfulness for children and is so calming to read and look through. I really love this one!
Construction Zoo by Jennifer Thorne and Susie Hammer- Have you ever noticed the similarities between construction equipment and zoo animals? Check them out in this playful book that is sure to delight young animal and vehicle fans!
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