I’m the first to admit that my taste in picture books is a bit quirky and heavily influenced by what my students are drawn to.
The Umbrella by Beth Ferry, illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld
Published by Clarion Books

I read this book to preschoolers, and both the kids and their teachers were happily surprised by the final twist in the story. An homage to hope and perseverance.
Watch Out for the Lion! by Brooke Hartman, illustrated by Anna Süßbauer
Published by Page Street Kids

This was another favorite read-aloud. It’s funny and interactive, a double win as far as I’m concerned.
The Voice in the Hollow by Will Hillenbrand
Published by Holiday House

Kids are always looking for scary stories, and this one offers a nice dose of creepiness, as well as a cozy ending and an ode to the power of stories.
Little Land by Diana Sudyka
Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Diana Sudyka’s striking illustrations make this a powerful introduction to ecology, while encouraging kids to make a difference.
Mole Is Not Alone by Maya Tatsukawa
Published by Henry Holt and Company

One of the most affirming books for socially anxious introverts that I have ever read, with an ending that encourages readers to seek quality over quantity in friendships.
The Umbrella by Beth Ferry, illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld
Published by Clarion Books

I read this book to preschoolers, and both the kids and their teachers were happily surprised by the final twist in the story. An homage to hope and perseverance.
Watch Out for the Lion! by Brooke Hartman, illustrated by Anna Süßbauer
Published by Page Street Kids

This was another favorite read-aloud. It’s funny and interactive, a double win as far as I’m concerned.
The Voice in the Hollow by Will Hillenbrand
Published by Holiday House

Kids are always looking for scary stories, and this one offers a nice dose of creepiness, as well as a cozy ending and an ode to the power of stories.
Little Land by Diana Sudyka
Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Diana Sudyka’s striking illustrations make this a powerful introduction to ecology, while encouraging kids to make a difference.
Mole Is Not Alone by Maya Tatsukawa
Published by Henry Holt and Company

One of the most affirming books for socially anxious introverts that I have ever read, with an ending that encourages readers to seek quality over quantity in friendships.