Picture Books

This splendid book by Caldecott honoree Oge Mora is an ode to resilience and the mother– daughter bond. Since Ava’s mother works “Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday,” Saturday is their special day together. The beautiful collage art is so charming and really makes the love between the pair palpable. When their plans go awry, the touching twist at the end provides a heartwarming conclusion that brought tears to my eyes. A great choice for any and everyone! - Stephanie

You don’t have to be familiar with previous Chirri & Chirra books to enjoy this utterly charming newest installment. This time, the adventurous sisters bike around an old town full of practical, yet magical, shops. I would have loved pouring over the details of Doi’s delightful soft watercolor illustrations as a child and still do as an adult. A great choice for readers who enjoy fun, light adventures with a hint of magic. Don’t forget to read Chirri & Chirra’s other stories, too! - Stephanie

During a trip to the market, Adam is separated from his parents and mistakes adults in a variety of cultural and religious garb for them. With minimal text, the pictures are given the story-telling power here, making this a great choice for younger readers, or as a jumping-off point for conversations about diversity. Backmatter explains the concept of clothing with religious and/or cultural significance and encourages readers to learn about other cultures and practice kindness and respect for all people. - Molly

There’s nothing quite like summer and the unexpected gifts exploration brings. When three cousins approach a dilapidated house, a face appears at the window and they run from the “ghost”. After spilling the beans to their grandmother, she makes them apologize to the kind old man living there and thus begins a beautiful intergenerational friendship. This excellent story uses the comic book form to draw you in. I won’t soon forget that kindness and friendship can be found in surprising places. - Ivy

Harpreet Singh is excited about colors and loves wearing different colorful patkas—he has one for every occasion—to express his feelings. What Harpreet isn’t excited about: moving across the country. The charming, vibrant art makes this tale about transition and emotional awareness even more beautiful. A good story for any reader, this book is also a great tool for helping children explore their feelings and process change. - Stephanie

Hilarity ensues when Ramsey and his Grandma battle a giant octopus that was supposed to be dinner. The representation of their Afro-Latinx family is warm and spirited and the details—like Ramsey’s tech-fluency and love of superheroes—make this feel like a first-hand account (which is confirmed in the author’s note about the family story the book is based on). Full of expressive faces, action-packed tableus, and a humorous ending, this one makes for an excellent family meal (or bedtime story). - Molly

Sulwe, like too many real children, cannot see her own beauty, outside or in. A myth about the sisters Night and Day helps her see her true self, “Dark and beautiful, bright and strong.” Vashti Harrison’s gorgeous art brings life this all-too-real story by Lupita Nyong’o that will lift your heart. It’s perfect for any child who needs help seeing themselves, to be reminded that not all beauty is the same, or who dreams of stories the stars might tell. - Jocelyn

Barnett has fashioned a secret door that transports us to a world where Margaret Wise Brown chases dogs, drinks tea, and writes. This book shows us that truth in storytelling is important, especially with children. Awash in pastels, Jacoby’s long-striding Margaret keeps her chin up and her eyes open, and you’ll want to do the same while reading this book. - Michelle

Margaret is unique and free-spirited, indulging her curious nature and remaining determined when faced with adversity. This book playfully explores the beautiful and the ugly in the world, encouraging readers to be ourselves and do what make us happy even if that makes us different. - Sheila

These 29 sweet Spanish nursery rhymes are about things kids and their grown-ups like best: frogs and elephants, piñatas and cinnamon bread, wide-open fields and your own cozy bed. The English adaptations, with their own rhythm and charm, are equally delightful to read aloud. Each poem is accompanied by beautiful paintings that gave my grandson and me even more to talk about—once he stopped dancing to the poems. - Cat