85 New Picture Books I’m Excited to Read in 2024

Between Two Windows by Keisha Morris

Between Two Windows sounds like it’s going to be such a sweet picture book. It follows two young children who pass drawings across a clothesline between their apartment windows. I can’t wait to use this book in the classroom to talk about imagination, innovation and art!

Buffalo Fluffalo by Bess Kalb

I absolutely adore the title of this book and the cover — it seems like it will be so much fun to read! Buffalo Fluffalo is about a silly buffalo who thinks he’s superior, but sometimes things happen and we need comfort. It’s an entertaining and humourous story that reminds us that we’re all the same.

Figment by Jason Grandt

It’s no surprise that this book is featured on this list. I’m a big fan of everything Disney, but especially anything to do with the theme parks. Figment is such a beloved character and I’m so excited to see him as the star in this fun Little Golden Book!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day From the Crayons by Drew Daywalt

I adore the entire Crayons book series — each book is so fun and entertaining. They also happen to be a hit with my students! Happy St. Patrick’s Day From the Crayons is the newest addition to the series. If the other books are any indication, this one will be just as adorable!

Like So by Ruth Forman

I adore Ruth Forman’s books and I’m so excited for her next release. Like So is a touching picture book told from a Nana’s perspective. It’s a sweet reminder of the love that surrounds us, even when things are difficult.

I Am a Masterpiece by Mia Armstrong

I Am a Masterpiece is written by Mia Armstrong, an actress who says that down syndrome is her superpower. Her debut picture book follows Mia, who is often seen as different by others, but sees herself as a masterpiece. I’m so excited to read this book to students in the classroom to help highlight that differences make us unique and at the end of the day, we’re all masterpieces.

The Spark in You by Andrea Pippins

I just adore this cover and I know that the story inside will be just as good! The Spark in You is set during Carnival and follows a little girl as she gets ready for the parade. While she prepares, she practices positive affirmations and celebrates the beauty of the world.

When You Have to Wait by Melanie Conklin

One thing I really like to help students learn in the classroom is patience. It’s something we all struggle with, not just children. When You Have to Wait shares the story of a little girl who sometimes has to wait. It’s an adorable story that shares the importance of patience and why waiting can sometimes bring even more joy and beauty.

Baker Makers by Kim Smith

Kim Smith is a wonderful author and illustrator. Her previous book Boxitects is such a great book and her illustrations for the Pop Classics series are so beautiful. Baker Makers follows Naveen, a young boy who loves baking but struggles with perfectionism. When his imagination and his baking clash, he needs to find a way to embrace the unexpected. It’s going to be a great STEM centered picture book for the new year!

Gravity is Bringing Me Down by Wendelin Van Draanen

As soon as I heard about this book, I immediately added it to my list of books to read. Gravity is Bringing Me Down follows a young girl who has a very long day when she deals with all the problems that come with being clumsy. A lesson on gravity helps her understand why she’s clumsy. It’s going to be the perfect mixture of humour and education.

Just One More Sleep by Jamie Lee Curtis

I love Jamie Lee Curtis and I’m so excited to see that she has a new picture book releasing next year! I think it’s really interesting to see more celebrities entering the picture book world — and Jamie Lee has been in it for a while! Just One More Sleep shares all the reasons why waiting can be wonderful.

Keep Dancing Through by Alison Holker Boss and Stephen “tWitch” Boss

When I watched The Ellen Show, I always enjoyed tWitch and his positive energy. While his death was extremely sad, I think it serves as a reminder that people can keep a lot inside, and it’s important to share how we’re feeling. Keep Dancing Through highlights the importance of moving through the difficulties of life.

Time to Make Art by Jeff Mack

If you’re looking for a picture book to inspire creativity, then this is the book for you. Time to Make Art follows a young girl who asks a lot of questions when she’s making art. Her questions are answered by different artists throughout history. It’s the perfect book to introduce young readers to art history and inspire their own creativity.

Eyes that Weave the World’s Wonders by Joanna Ho

I’m so excited to read Joanna Ho’s newest release. Eyes that Weave the World’s Wonders is a companion to Eyes that Kiss in the Corners and Eyes that Speak to the Stars. This newest release follows a young girl who discovers the meaning behind her eyes, even though she looks different from her parents. It’s a powerful story about connection and adoption.

Snail in Space by Rachel Bright

One of my favourite books is Slug in Love — it also happens to be a huge hit in the classroom. When I heard about Rachel Bright’s newest releases, I immediately added it to my list of books to read. Snail in Space is going to be a hilarious story about Gail the Snail who plans to be the first snail in space. I’m so excited to pick this one up!

The Fish of Small Wishes by Elana K Arnold

The Fish of Small Wishes is a modern fairy tale picture book that’s inspired by a Jewish family memory. It follows a young girl who finds a fish on the pavement. When she brings the fish inside and puts it in the bathtub, the fish offers to grant her a wish. It’s going to be a magical picture book with beautiful illustrations that everyone will love.

A Garden Called Home by Jessica J Lee

When a young girl visits the country her mother was born in, she notices a big change in how her mom acts. While there, her mother teaches her about nature and they explore the world around them. Once they’re back at home, her mom isn’t as happy anymore. It’s a charming and sweet picture book about immigration and family.

Cranky by Phuc Tran

As soon as I saw this book, I immediately added it to my list to read. I am so excited to read this one! Cranky the Crane is working his last day on the construction site. His friends try to cheer him up, but sometimes when you’re cranky, the last thing you want to do is talk. Paired with Pete Oswald’s incredible illustrations, I just know this will be a new favourite for me!

Escargot and the Search for Spring by Dashka Slater

I adore Escargot and his adorable adventures. In this newest addition to the series, Escargot is looking forward to getting outside after a long winter. When he heads outside to experience spring, he finds new friends and enjoys all that spring has to offer.

I Am Not the Easter Bunny by TL McBeth

I’m always on the hunt for humourous and enjoyable picture books for the holidays. I Am Not the Easter Bunny follows a regular bunny who is adamant he is NOT the Easter Bunny. But he carries a basket full of treats and eggs and dresses nicely. So he must be the Easter Bunny! It’s going to be the perfect picture book during the Easter season.

Just Try It! by Phil Rosenthal and Lily Rosenthal

I always enjoyed watching Everybody Loves Raymond, so I’m excited to read a picture book by the creator, Phil Rosenthal. Phil is a quirky dad who loves food and desperately wants his daughter to try new foods. When they go to a food festival, an unexpected mustard incident changes everything. Written with his daughter, I think this will be really entertaining!

Lucky Duck by Greg Pizzoli

Susan the Duck has the worst luck ever. But with each unlucky situation, Wolf shows up with something she’s won. So, maybe Susan the Duck is actually a lucky duck. If you’re looking for something humorous, then this is a great option.

Seeds of Change by Nina Laden

Seeds of Change is a powerful and heartfelt story about improving ourselves and the world around us. When a little girl sees that her local community in Madagascar is struggling from a drought, she becomes inspired. She creates a plan and works with her community to inspire change. It’s an inspiring and uplifting story that’s not to be missed in 2024.

The Teeny-Weeny Unicorn by Shawn Harris

Picture books about self-esteem and confidence are so important. Follow a young unicorn who happens to be teeny-weeny. When he gets tired of the way he’s treated, he runs away and starts to wonder if he’s really teeny-weeny or just right. This will be a great book to encourage conversations about confidence, while also

The Crayons Love Our Planet by Drew Daywalt

It’s no surprise that there’s another Crayons book on this list! The Crayons Love Our Planet will be a perfect addition to your list of picture books to read for Earth Day. Follow the Crayons as they share all the things they love — like the blue oceans and the green trees. I’m so excited to pick this one up!

The Cutest Brave Little Bunny by Joy Steuerwald

Everyone agrees that Little Bunny is just the cutest ever! While Little Bunny thinks that’s great, she doesn’t understand why they can’t see all the other qualities she has. When she meets a new friend who sees her for who she truly is, she finally feels like herself.

Rocket Ship, Solo Trip by Chiara Colombi

There’s nothing better than a book about new experiences, especially if it has a space theme! Rocket is so excited for her first solo mission. When it’s time for reentry, she doesn’t know if she can do it by herself. With rhyming text and adorable illustrations, this will be an entertaining and inspiring book for the new year!

Sleepy Sheepy and the Sheepover by Lucy Ruth Cummins

I loved Sleepy Sheepy and I’m so excited to read the next addition to the series. It’s time for Sleepy Sheepy to have his very first sleepover. When it’s time for bed, she just can’t get to sleep and misses home. It’s going to be an adorable story and I can’t wait to see the illustrations that Pete Oswald creates!

Memory Garden by Zohreh Ghahremani

Memory Garden follows a little girl who spends the day in her Nana’s garden. While there, she experiences the past and the present and learns that we may leave things behind, but we never forget. I also love that this book is written and illustrated by a mother and daughter!

The Wrong Book by Drew Daywalt

Since this is the third book by Drew Daywalt on this list, I think it’s pretty clear I love his books. This hilarious book follows a narrator who gets everything wrong. But thankfully, there are some adorable characters to help set him straight. It’s going to be full of Drew Daywalt’s signature humour and charm!

Family is Family by Melissa Marr

Little Chick is on his way to school and notices that all the other kids are traveling with their siblings or their mom and dad. But Little Chick’s family is different — he doesn’t have siblings and he has two mom’s. He quickly learns that his family is perfect, even if it looks different.

Hope is a Rainbow by Hoda Kotb

I love finding new picture books that encourage young readers to chase after their dreams. Hope is a Rainbow is all about finding hope and letting it inspire curiosity and encourage optimism. Paired with the illustrations, I think this one will become a new staple for many readers!

How to Catch a Mamasaurus by Alice Walstead

The How to Catch series is a favourite of mine, so it’s no surprise that I’m excited to read the newest release. The How to Catch kids are on a mission to catch the Mamasaurus, the most wonderful creature of all. It’s going to be the perfect option for Mother’s Day in 2024.

Look How Much I’ve Grown in KINDergarten by Vera Ahiyya

Spring is here and Mason sees her friends improving, but she doesn’t think she’s doing anything right. When her teacher has an idea to measure growth, Mason learns that they all grow in different ways. I really loved the first book, KINDergarten, so I’m excited to pick this one up!

Love, the Earth by Frances Stickley

Love, the Earth is another great option for Earth Day. This adorable new picture book is a story from Earth’s perspective. It’s a love letter to the world but also a call for action. This book will inspire readers of all ages to love the Earth and all that it gives us.

No Cats in the Library by Lauren Emmons

If you love books, then you have to pick up this book! Clarisse is a sweet cat who can’t get enough of books. While she doesn’t know what the words say, she loves the beautiful pictures. One day, she discovers a place where people visit and leave with a lot of books — but they don’t allow cats in the library! This one is guaranteed to be a new favourite.

Partly Cloudy by Deborah Freedman

When two bunnies look up at the sky, they watch the clouds go by. But they notice that they both see something completely different! One bunny uses his imagination and the other uses science — but together, they both see something amazing. I just adore this cover and I know that the story will be just as enjoyable!

Peggy the Always Sorry Pigeon by Wendy Meddour

How cute is this cover? Follow Peggy, an overly apologetic pigeon who is always saying sorry. Even when she hasn’t done anything wrong, she finds herself apologizing. Then she meets Joan, a seagull who teaches Peggy how to stand up for herself. I feel like I can relate to this book and I know so many young readers will too!

The Reflection in Me by Marc Colagiovanni

The Reflection in Me is a companion to When Things Aren’t Going Right, Go Left. In this charming story, a reflection in the mirror teaches young children that they are truly perfect. Paired with wonderful illustrations, this book will certainly be a hit!

You Grow, Girl by Rose Rossner

Rhymes and adorable illustrations bring this fun story to life. Through humourous plant puns, readers will learn to believe in themselves and chase after their dreams.

All Are Welcome: Wherever You Go by Alexandra Penfold

I absolutely loved All Are Welcome, so it’s not surprise that this companion is on this list. All Are Welcome: Wherever You Go follows a set of kids as they move through milestones. It’s a friendly reminder that life has big and small moments, but it’s even better when we’re together. I can’t wait to read this one!

Daisy the Daydreamer by Jennifer P Goldfinger

When Daisy goes through her day, her imagination takes her to new places and makes life more fun. Even though her imagination can cause a little bit of trouble, she’s determined to show her teacher what she’s learned. It’s a charming story that reminds readers of all ages to appreciate everyone’s special talents.

I Am Extraordinary by Stephen Curry

I Am Extraordinary follows a young girl who really wants to be on her school soccer team. Since she has hearing loss, she is self concious about her hearing aids and is nervous to try out for the team. With the help of some friends, she learns to think differently while embracing the fact that she is extraordinary!

Someone Just Like You by Helen Docherty

If you’re looking for a new picture book to teach empathy, then this is a great option. Someone Just Like You teaches young readers that somewhere in the world, there is someone who is similar. They may like the same things, they may do the same things — and it’s important to be kind to everyone we meet.

You’re Going to Love this Book by Jory John

I will pick up any book that Jory John writes — his books are always so much fun! This picture book has everything a reader could possibly want — which is why you’re going to love this book! I can’t wait for Jory John’s signature humour and wit with this new release.

Lucy! How Lucille Ball Did it All by Amy Guglielmo and Jacqueline Tourville

When people ask if there’s someone, alive or dead, I’d like to have dinner with, my answer is always Lucille Ball. I just love her work, especially I Love Lucy. This picture book biography shares the story of Lucille Ball, from early childhood to the comedy star we know and love. I think she’s a great model for chasing after your dreams and I’m so excited to introduce a younger generation to Lucille Ball!

Awe-Samosas! by Marzieh Abbas

It’s Noor’s first time making her family samosas recipe. When she can’t get a hold of her Dadijaan because of the time difference, she has to use her problem solving and creativity to make something new. This one is going to be a lot of fun to read!

Don’t Wash Winston by Ashley Belote

I feel like this book is relatable for a lot of us! When Liam’s favourite teddy bear gets a little dirty, his dad decides it’s time for a wash. But Liam thinks the washing machine is scary, so he hides Winston. It’s going to be such a great story that readers of all ages will love.

Lost Stick by Anoosha Syed

Milo loves his time with his owner Louise. When she picks up a twig and throws it for him, he fetches it and brings it back. Milo loves fetching because it always brings a smile to Louise’s face. When Louise throws the stick a little too far, Milo goes on an adventure to find the right twig.

Penelope Rex and the Problem with Pets by Ryan T Higgins

The newest addition to the Penelope Rex series follows Penelope as she discovers the challenges that come with owning a pet. If it’s anything like the other three books in the series, it’ll be full of humour and will make readers smile from beginning to end.

The Cat Who Couldn’t Be Bothered by Jack Kurland

Sometimes we all need a reminder to talk about how we feel. This one shares the story of a cat who doesn’t want to do anything at all. When his friend finally asks him how he’s doing, he finally shares that he’s feeling sad. It’s a charming story about friendship and promotes healthy conversations.

From My Head to My Toes by Aly Raisman

There are so many amazing picture books that talk about consent and this one will be a great option for 2024. From My Head to My Toes is a positive look at bodies and how we have control of our own body. This book will certainly be a great opportunity for adults to introduce the topic of consent to kids at an early age.

I Am More Than by LeBron James

Lebron James’ newest picture book release is a must read for 2024! In this companion to I Promise, readers will learn that they can accomplish anything they put their mind to, if they just believe. I Am More Than will be a new favourite for so many readers!

Addie Ant Goes on an Adventure by Maren Morris and Karina Argow

Addie Ant travels from one garden bed to another in this charming picture book debut by singer Maren Morris and teacher Karian Argow. When she gets lost along the way, she leans on some new friends to help her on her adventure. This one sounds like it’ll be so much fun and will highlight the importance of friendship and asking for help.

Five Stories by Ellen Weinstein

This book has such a unique premise and I’m so excited to read it. It follows five children from five different cultures in five different decades as they grow up in the same building. It will transport readers through time and introduce them to new cultures while also celebrating diversity.

We Want Our Books by Jake Alexander

It’s no surprise that this picture book is on this list. It follows Rosa, who wants a book but discovers the library is closed. Rosa works with her sister to bring their community together to reopen their library. This book will help inspire even the youngest of readers to support libraries and also encourage access to inclusive, diverse books.

Why Do We Sing? by Sam Tsui

This one follows a young girl who asks the question, why do we sing? Readers are then taken on a journey around the world where they learn the role that music has played over time. I think this is such a fun concept and so many readers will love it!

Look by Gabi Snyder

As soon as I saw this cover, I knew it was a book I wanted to read. Look is all about the natural world around us and the beauty we can see when we look really closely. I can’t wait to pick this one up!

We Who Produce Pearls by Joanna Ho

I’m really excited to pick up this new release from Joanna Ho. We Who Produce Pearls celebrates Asian-American history, embraces the diversity within the community and encourages self-worth. Along with stunning illustrations, I know I’m going to love this one — and so will you!

A Place for Feelings by Corey Ann Haydu

A Place for Feelings is all about what we can do with our feelings, especially when we’re dealing with big feelings. It’s another book on this list that encourages children to share their feelings. As a teacher, I think these books are so important and I really hope parents pick this one up too!

Floof by Heidi McKinnon

I’ll be completely honest, this cover is so cute and quickly caught my attention. Can you blame me? Floof is all about a lovely cat who has the busiest day ever!

Gorgeously Me by Jonathan Van Ness

This is another book on this list that I just adore the cover. Gorgeously Me is Jonathan Van Ness’ newest picture book and I’m so excited to pick it up. I think we all need a reminder that we’re perfect just the way we are. This book will serve as a gentle reminder that self-love and self-esteem is incredibly important!

Waiting in the Wings by Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton

I absolutely adore Julie Andrews, so it’s no surprise that this book is on this list. Inspired by a true event, this book follows a duck family waiting in the wings for their moment in the spotlight. I just know this one is going to be entertaining and I also love that Julie Andrews wrote this with her daughter!

Beach Bummer by Ryan T Higgins

This wouldn’t be a complete list of my most anticipated picture books without a Bruce book on the list. As soon as I read Mother Bruce, I fell in love with the characters and since then, I’ve picked up each release. Beach Bummer is guaranteed to be another hit!

Do You Even Know Me? by Reem Faruqi

Reem Faruqi has quickly become one of my favourite picture book authors. Her books are just so enjoyable and full of meaning. This book follows Salma, a young girl who decides to educate others while defending her culture and religion. I think this story is going to be incredibly important for readers of all ages.

How to Train a Tooth Fairy by Sue Fliess

In the next addition to the Magical Creatures and Crafts series, a group of kids wonder what happens when the Tooth Fairy is new to her job. They quickly realize that with the right tools and some creativity, they can train the Tooth Fairy. I’m so excited to read this one!

Neat Nick’s Big Mess by Chad Otis

Neat Nick’s Big Mess follows Nick, a young boy who has always been neat because it makes him feel comfortable and less anxious. When an energetic dog suddenly enters his life, Nick realizes that he can’t control the mess. This book is going to be a great exploration of anxiety, control and compromising.

Penny Lu Porcupine by Katie Gilstrap

Penny the Porcupine has a superpower — her pointy quills. When she’s scared, her quills make her look brave and powerful. But, Penny doesn’t always feel brave or powerful. Penny Lu Porcupine is going to be a wonderful exploration of bravery and facing our fears.

Summer is Here by Renée Watson

I am so excited to pick up this picture book by Renee Watson! In this charming story, summer is finally here. From the minute the sun rises to when the sun sets, there’s a lot that summer has to offer. I think readers of all ages are going to enjoy this ode to summer!

The Curious Why by Angela DiTerlizzi

I am so excited for the sequel to The Magical Yet, I just know it’s going to be fantastic. The Curious Why helps explore the world of possibilities — especially when we’re bored. When we’re curious, there’s a lot to discover! I just can’t wait to read this one and see all the stunning illustrations!

The Perfect Place by Matt de la Peña

Follow Lucas, a young boy who goes to a perfect school and lives in the perfect neighbourhood — but life isn’t so perfect. When he dreams of a strange light, he follows it and discovers a place where perfect people live. This book is going to be the perfect exploration of perfectionism and will help readers appreciate the beauty around us.

Your House is Not Just a House by Idris Goodwin

Your House is Not Just a House is a fantastic STEAM picture book releasing in 2024. Follow a young child as they use their imagination and learn that the environment around them is not just for living — it’s also for a place for our imagination to run wild! I think this book will inspire many readers to use their imagination and creativity.

The Color of Love by Poppy Harlow

If love was a colour, what would it be? When Grace’s teacher asks the question, she doesn’t know how to answer it. As they explore, Grace learns that loves comes in many different forms. This sounds like it’s going to be a great book!

You Be Grandpa by Karla Clark

While I’m sad that this is the last book in the You Be series, I’m still so excited to pick it up! This book follows a Grandpa, who has had a really busy day and is too tired to read a bedtime story to his grandson. So, he asks his grandson to take over. I’m incredibly close with my Grandfather and I know so many grandparents will love reading this one (and the other books in the series, too!)

The Squish by Breanna Carzoo

I really love Breanna Carzoo’s other picture books, so I’m really looking forward to her next release. The Squish follows a sandcastle who tries to avoid getting squished. Is being bigger and stronger enough to avoid getting squished? Breanna Carzoo’s artwork is so captivating and I’m really looking forward to seeing it paired with the story!

Lighthouse and the Little Boat by Katie Frawley

Lighthouse and the Little Boat is a charming and heartfelt story that highlights emotions and feelings. It follows a lighthouse who takes pride in keeping everyone safe. When a boat named Brightness appears, she does her best to take care of her — but what happens when a storm hits? Readers of all ages will love this one and I also think we’ll all learn a valuable lesson from it too!

Are you Small? by Mo Willems

When Mo Willems releases a book, it’s going on my list of books to read. Are You Small? focuses on the relationship between size and scale. I think this one will be a new favourite for me and hopefully for you too!

Patrick and the Not So Perfect Party by Anne Wynter

Patrick loves to have everything perfect, which is why he loves to cook. When it’s time to throw his birthday party, he asks for a FOOD party. But, his brother sends out the invitations and says its a FOOT party. It’s going to be a humourous book about accepting mistakes as well as embracing the love of family.

Duck Duck Taco Truck by Laura Lavoie

This book is such a unique twist on Duck Duck Goose and I’m so excited to pick it up! It follows two Ducks who have a taco truck but are now competing with another taco truck — owned by a Goose. When Goose is swarmed by hungry customers, the Ducks decide to lend a feather.

First Day, Hooray! by June Sobel

I’m always on the hunt for back to school books — even though it’s crazy to think about this early on. First Day, Hooray! follows a class of children who learn how to express their emotions on the first day of school. It’ll be a great option for teaching emotional literacy and will be loved by readers of all ages.

Not-a-Box City by Antoinette Portis

Not-a-Box City is one of my most anticipated picture books of the year. In the third book of the series, Bunny wants to build a city. But, he wants to do it all on his own. I love this series because it inspires children to use their imagination. I’ve also used the first book, Not a Box, for a number of STEM activities in the classroom!

Zuni and the Memory Jar by Aisha Saeed

This book follows Zuni, a young girl who has a memory jar. When someone in her family does something important, they place their memory into the jar. Her parents tell Zuni that she’ll have lots of memories when she’s older — but she has memories to share now!

Camp Mickey and Minnie: One Wild Summer by Ryan March

Since I’m a huge Disney fan, I can’t resist a book with Mickey and Minnie! One Wild Summer follows Mickey and Minnie as they open a summer camp. The goal is to help the campers unplug and connect with nature. I have a feeling this one will be so entertaining!

The Yellow Bus by Loren Long

The Yellow Bus follows a school bus who loves picking up children and driving them to school. As time goes by, she gets new drivers as well as new passengers. When she’s finally left on her own, she finds the beauty in the world around her. I think this will be a heartwarming story and I’m really looking forward to picking it up.