Children

Dog Man gets sprayed by a skunk, turns bright red after a tomato-juice bath and finds himself exiled by the very citizens he keeps rescuing. Pilkey packs in the goofy humor kids love while quietly making a point about doing right by people who have turned their backs on you. If you have a reluctant reader in the house, this series is still the best on-ramp I know.

Big sister Sissy is not thrilled that her little brother "helps" with absolutely everything, whether or not help was requested. This won the 2025 Caldecott Medal for Rebecca Lee Kunz’s gorgeous Cherokee-inspired artwork. Any parent of more than one child will laugh out loud at the ending.

A 2025 Caldecott Honor book about the demae riders of postwar Tokyo, who balanced towering stacks of noodle bowls on bicycles through crowded streets. Gracey Zhang’s illustrations practically move on the page. A joyful little celebration of skill, community and work done with pride.

A buffalo puffs himself up and huffs at everyone who tries to be his friend – right up until a rainstorm reveals the pipsqueak underneath all that fluff. The rhymes are ridiculous in the best way, and kids will be shouting "I’ve had enuffalo!" by the second read. Erin Kraan’s woodcut illustrations are terrific, and the message about not having to act tough lands without a lecture.

Jerome collects words the way other kids collect rocks or baseball cards, and discovers the magic really happens when he gives them away. Reynolds pairs joyful illustrations with a message about generosity and language that lands for kids and grown-ups alike. Perfect for the start of a school year.

A bear cub finds a battered piano in the forest, teaches himself to play and eventually trades the woods for sold-out concert halls in the city. Litchfield’s glowing illustrations are worth the price by themselves, and the ending about coming home caught me completely off guard. Lovely for young readers, and a surprisingly good gift for a graduate or anyone chasing a dream.

CJ and his grandmother ride the bus across town, and she gently teaches him to see beauty everywhere he looks. This one won the Newbery Medal, and Christian Robinson’s artwork is as warm as the story. A tender reminder that gratitude is something we teach by example.

Sometimes the students who need friendship the most are the ones we notice the least. This gentle story encourages empathy, inclusion and the quiet power of reaching out to someone who feels alone. The expressive illustrations by Patrice Barton beautifully reinforce the message that a single act of kindness can change a life.

What looks like a simple picture book becomes a thoughtful celebration of change, resilience and new beginnings. With clever humor and gentle wisdom, it helps young readers see that every ending creates space for something new. The imaginative illustrations by Chuck Dillon make this an uplifting story that children and adults can enjoy together.

Big adventures often begin with the smallest acts of courage. This heartwarming picture book reminds readers that kindness, perseverance and compassion can make an enormous difference, no matter your size. Biddulph’s vibrant illustrations perfectly capture the humor, warmth, and wonder of this unforgettable tale.

Fast-paced, goofy and packed with visual gags, this installment turns weather mayhem into a wildly entertaining adventure. The clever mix of mystery, science and humor keeps young readers engaged while sneaking in plenty of learning. With expressive artwork, it's an easy recommendation for kids who think reading should be fun first and foremost.

This picture book beautifully captures the experience of family, heritage and the stories that shape who we are. Through vibrant illustrations by Leo Espinosa, readers are invited to explore the importance of remembering one's roots, even when memories seem distant. Warm, imaginative and deeply affirming, it celebrates the connections that tie generations together.

Sometimes the best friendships grow when two very different personalities learn to understand each other. This charming story uses humor and warmth to explore boundaries, empathy and acceptance in a way young readers will immediately recognize. Expressive illustrations add an extra layer of personality to a tale that's both funny and reassuring.

With illustrations by Sophie Morse, this inventive, clever and delightfully unpredictable graphic novel adventure for tweens invites readers into a world where every challenge leads to a new surprise. Filled with humor, mystery and heart, it’s the kind of story that sparks curiosity and keeps pages turning until the very end.

Warm, uplifting and full of charm, this delightful story (the third in the series) celebrates the quiet courage it takes to face fears and try something new. With relatable characters and an encouraging message, it’s a wonderful reminder that bravery often shows up in the smallest moments.