75 New Picture Books I’m Excited to Read in 2025

Girls on the Rise by Amanda Gorman

Amanda Gorman is incredibly inspiring and I’m so excited to pick this picture book up. Girls on the Rise celebrates the strength and resilience of young girls. Paired with stunning illustrations and Amanda Gorman’s powerful words, readers will feel inspired to rise above challenges.

Heartfelt by Elaine Vickers

I always love finding touching stories that encourage young readers to act with kindness and empathy. Heartfelt is a sweet story about a young child who makes paper hearts and gives them out to help spread kindness. I think this will also be a fantastic choice to read around Valentine’s Day!

I Don’t Wanna Hibernate! by Anna Ouchchy

I’m always so excited to find new picture books for Groundhog Day! I Don’t Wanna Hibernate follows a cute young bear who refuses to follow his family into hibernation. It’s the perfect choice to talk about hibernation and changing seasons, while also engaging young readers with a fun and humourous story.

Lily’s Dream by Bea Jackson

Lily’s Dream is a beautiful story about friendship. It follows Lily, a fairy who can’t fly but finds her magic with the help of a human girl, Willow. Paired with beautiful illustrations, young readers will love this fun and magical story.

Just One More Story by Perry Emerson

Just One More Story is a sweet new picture book that features books and imagination. What could be better than that? It follows two young bunnies, Pip, who loves reading and Bun, who doesn’t. When Bun opens a book with action and adventure, it might be exactly what he needs to love reading.

Mai’s Áo Dài by Thai Nguyen

Celebrity fashion designer Thai Nguyen, from Netflix’s Say I Do delivers a sweet new picture book. Mai’s Áo Dài is a celebration of heritage, traditions, family and self-expression. It also celebrates the Vietnamese New Year, Têt. I am so excited to pick this one up!

On Our Way! What a Day! by JaNay Brown-Wood

On Our Way! What a Day! is such a fun and exciting new picture book release. It’s Gram’s birthday and her grandchildren can’t wait to celebrate. But, they need a gift so on their way to the party, they search for the perfect gift to give her. With bright illustrations and entertaining text, readers of all ages will love this one.

Astronaut Sisters by Julie Fortenberry

Astronaut Sisters is an imaginative adventure that follows two sisters who dream of exploring space together. It’s a heartwarming story about family while also exploring the power of imagination and dreams.

The Interpreter by Olivia Abtahi

I am so excited to pick this one up and I think it is the perfect new release for bilingual families. It follows Cecilia, a young girl who acts as an interpreter for her parents. It’s an important job but it can also be difficult, especially when she’d rather be on the soccer field. Paired with beautiful illustrations, The Interpreter explores culture and communication in a heartfelt way.

The Story Factory by Jam Dong

The Story Factory follows a factory that creates books, combining characters, plots, vocabulary and more. But what happens when the factory stops producing? The workers try to fix things but they find things that might change books forever. I am so excited to pick this one up!

Dragon Dreams by Roni Schotter

Dragon Dreams is a beautiful story that celebrates imagination and kindness. It also features dragons, who could pass that up? It follows a young girl who fights with her sister and when she drifts off to sleep, a magical journey with a dragon helps her reconcile with her sister.

Bruce Saves the Planet by Ryan T Higgins

I will never pass up the opportunity to read a Bruce book! In this new addition to the series, Bruce sets out to save the planet all while teaching young readers about environmental conservation. It’s the perfect book to pick up for Earth Day and to help inspire children to love and appreciate nature.

Cranky Makes a Friend by Phuc Tran

Cranky Makes a Friend is the sequel to Cranky, which was a favourite of mine last year. It follows Cranky the crane, who is feeling extra cranky when he meets Lefty, a new crane who is talkative and a jokester. It’s a story about self-acceptance, friendship and dealing with emotions and feelings. I am so excited to pick this one up!

Dinosaur Day by Diana Murray

Who doesn’t love a book about dinosaurs? Dinosaur Day takes readers on a journey with several fun and adorable dinos as they celebrate Dinosaur Day. When the baby dinos want to join in, something unexpected happens, and the dinos need to decide if they should keep Dino Day going.

Happy Father’s Day from the Crayons by Drew Daywalt

I will never pass up an opportunity to read a book by Drew Daywalt, especially if it’s part of the Crayons series. In this new addition, the Crayons celebrate Father’s Day. It features the humour and silly antics we all know and love while also sharing a heartfelt message.

Happy Mother’s Day from the Crayons by Drew Daywalt

It’s no surprise that there’s also a Mother’s Day release from the Crayons. This new addition to the series celebrates the amazing mothers in the world. It’s full of humour, love as well as the charm we all love when we read a book in the Crayons series.

Hope in a Jar by Deborah Marcero

Hope in a Jar is a companion to the incredible picture books In a Jar and Out of a Jar. It follows a little bunny and his friends as they collect their hopes and dreams for the future inside a little jar. Every book in this series is charming and beautiful, so I’m looking forward to picking this new one up.

If You Find a Fawn by Kellie DuBay Gillis

If You Find a Fawn is part of the Disney Planet Possible Books program, which inspires young readers to take care of the Earth. When a young child wanders into the wild, they find a baby animal. But, what do you do when this happens? It’s a tender story that teaches young readers about nature and animals.

Just Be You! by Karl Newson

There’s nothing better than a charming picture book that encourages young readers to be themselves! Just Be You! features young children dressed as their favourite animals as they’re empowered to. be themselves. It has rhyming text as well as adorable illustrations, which will make it a perfect read!

Luna and the Sky Dragon by Bethan Woolvin

Another new release featuring dragons, I think I sense a theme this year! Luna and the Sky Dragon follows Luna, a brave young girl who befriends a mystical dragon. Even though the villagers are scared of the dragon, she decides to show them that the Sky Dragon is nothing to be afraid of. It also features fun facts about the Milky Way, constellations and more astronomical aspects!

Martina’s Muy Bad Day by Melanie Wick Singer

Martina is having the worst day, she’s fallen into mud and swallowed a bug. When she tells her grandmother, Abuela helps to explain how to handle all her big feelings. It’s a beautiful dual-lingual story with humour and stunning illustrations that you don’t want to miss.

Me and Other Bunnies by Mo Willems

This list would not be complete if it didn’t have a Mo Willems release on it! This new release from the New York Times bestselling author-illustrator is a hilarious story about bunnies that will keep us entertained from start to finish!

Mr. Norton’s New Hat by Huw Lewis Jones

I love finding unique and funny new picture books, and I think this will be a hit! It follows Horace, who finds a mouse has made a house … in his hat! But with each passing day, he discovers more animals have moved in with him — from his hat to his bicycle basket. It’s going to be a charming story full of humour!

Otter Carries On by Maya Tatsukawa

Otter Carries On follows Otter, who loves floating and collecting rocks. When a storm comes, Otter can’t swim home and is lost at sea. But, with the help of a new friend, Otter learns that sometimes receiving a little help is just what you need. I think this will be a great book to discuss independence and its importance, but sometimes there are times when we all need a little help.

Rocket Beams, Lunar Dreams by Chiara Colombi

Rocket Beams, Lunar Dreams is the sequel to Rocket Ship, Solo Trip. It follows Rocket, who is back from her first solo mission to place a satellite into orbit. But this time, she’s headed on a lunar expedition and must drop off the spacecraft Lander to investigate the moon’s surface. When she learns that Lander is afraid of heights, she helps him accomplish his goal. It’s going to be a charming story about friendship, emotions as well as overcoming fears.

Worm Makes a Sandwich by Brianne Farley

An adorable new picture book that explores composting from the point of view of a worm. It follows Worm, who wants to make a sandwich, but he needs some garbage. And while he makes his sandwich, he teaches young readers the composting process. It’s hilarious and entertaining while also being educational.

Big Bike, Little Bike by Kellie DuBay Gillis

How adorable is this book cover? Big Bike, Little Bike follows a cast of characters as they are introduced to the world of bicycles. Bikes that are fast and slow, bikes that are big and small. It’s a hilarious and heartfelt story that readers of all ages are going to adore.

Every Monday Mabel by Jashar Arwan

Every Monday Mabel follows Mabel, who has a special tradition every Monday: she does something creative, fun and unexpected. It’s going to be an adorable story that embraces imagination and adventure, as well as creativity. I’m so excited to pick this one up!

Little Freddie Two Pants by Drew Daywalt

Little Freddie Two Pants is another book by Drew Daywalt that I’m excited to pick up this year! It follows Freddie, a quirky dog who doesn’t know how many pairs of pants he should wear. It’s a hilarious story that will make readers question whether dogs should wear pants too!

Thank You, Teacher! by Supriya Kelkar

As a teacher, I love finding new picture books that celebrate the impact we have on our students. Thank You, Teacher! celebrates every teacher, from homeroom teachers to gym teachers and everything in between. It’s a perfect opportunity for young readers to celebrate the wonderful educators in their lives.

A Day at Abbott Elementary by Halcyon Person

I adore Abbott Elementary! When I heard about this picture book, I immediately knew I wanted to pick it up. This new picture book follows a group of students in Ms. Teagues’ classroom as they navigate their school day with humour and heart. I am so excited to pick this one up and experience the charm of the popular TV show in book form.

Ruthie Rose’s Big Idea by John Schu

Ruthie Rose’s Big Idea follows Rosie, a young girl who has a wonderful idea and can’t wait to share it with everyone around her. It’s a charming story with poetry and spectacular illustrations that will spark creativity in every young reader.

The Flower Thief by Alice Hemming

If you loved The Leaf Thief, then you don’t want to miss this new addition to the series. It follows Squirrel who is so excited that spring is here and the most perfect flower is starting to blossom. But, after what happened in the fall he needs to keep the flower safe and asks Bird to help him. It’s a funny story that highlights the beauty of spring while also exploring emotions.

The Little Cloud by Pam Fong

The Little Cloud follows an adorable little cloud who is too busy to notice that a new day is dawning. When the other clouds want to make storms, Little Cloud wants to take a moment to enjoy the view. I think this will be a fantastic book for little readers who love to be curious.

The Teeny-Weeny Unicorn’s Great Big Wish by Shawn Harris

The Teeny-Weeny Unicorn’s Great Big Wish is the sequel to The Teeny-Weeny Unicorn. In this new addition to the series, the teeny-weeny unicorn makes a wish to be big, and with the help of a gust of wind and a princess, he sets off on a quest to find something smaller than he is. I think this book will be so cute!

Will the Pigeon Graduate? by Mo Willems

It’s no surprise that there’s another book by Mo Willems on this list! The Pigeon is back in this adorable picture book and he’s ready to face his biggest challenge yet: graduation! Will the Pigeon Graduate? is sure to become a brand new classic, especially with the humour and wit Mo Willems is known for.

Dear Bookstore by Emily Arrow

If Geneviève Godbout illustrates a book, I always pick it up. Dear Bookstore is a debut picture book from children’s songwriter Emily Arrow. It follows a little girl who sees the bookstore as the start of her reading journey, the place where her imagination is sparked and her curiosity runs free. For fans of bookstores, this new picture book is a must-read!

How Many Dinosaurs is Too Many? by Lou Peacock

It’s always fun to find engaging books for kids that also feature math. How Many Dinosaurs is Too Many? follows a dinosaur who comes to play. But maybe it would be more fun to have 10 dinosaurs? This hilarious picture book teaches young readers that sometimes less is more while also encouraging number recognition.

How to Catch an Invisible Bad Guy by Alice Walstead

I adore the How to Catch series, so it’s no surprise that this new release is on my list. In this new addition, the How to Catch kids are having fun at a carnival when a bad guy falls out of the movie they are watching. When the bad guy is convinced the kids’ catching net is a world-domination device, they must work together to catch him. I can’t wait to read this one!

The Night Before Earth Day by Natasha Wing

I always enjoy reading books in The Night Before series, which is inspired by Clement C. Moore’s classic tale. In this new addition to the series, a neighbourhood works together to make the world a better place. Follow along as they plant trees, create a community garden as well as several other things for Earth Day.

Who Ate Steve? by Kate Hindley

Who Ate Steve? is a hilarious story that follows Marcel, a really big bird and Steve, a really small worm. When Steve disappears, Marcel might know something about it. It’s a charming and hilarious book about size that readers of all ages will love.

Over in the Garden by Janna Matthies

If you know a young reader who loves being outside in the garden, then this is the book for them! Based on the folk song Over in the Meadow, it follows a group of little gardeners who come together to tend to a community garden. It teaches young readers all about digging, planting, harvesting and composting. It also has stunning, bright, and colourful illustrations.

So Tortoise Dug by Emmy Kastner

So Tortoise Dug is the next book from Emmy Kastner, who also wrote While You’re Asleep. It follows a tortoise and a mouse who are friends and burrowmates. When their home is flooded, it’s up to Tortoise to dig them a new place to live. Along the way, Mouse disappears, and new friends join … but where did Mouse go?

Stalactite & Stalagmite by Drew Beckmeyer

I think this book is going to be so fun, and I can’t wait to pick it up! It follows two little cave rock formations that witness creatures and things pass in and out of their cave over millions of years. But what happens when these two friends grow enough to finally touch?

We Are the Wibbly! by Sarah Tagholm

There’s always something so fun with stories that are engaging and educational. We Are the Wibbly! follows the journey of a small creature’s journey from tadpole to frog. But sometimes, tadpoles don’t feel ready to become frogs, and they need to try and keep up. It’s a wonderful story that teaches readers about the life cycle while also highlighting anxiety and the fear that comes with not keeping up with others. I am so excited to pick this one up!

Book Comes Home by Rob Sanders

Encouraging reading among young children is more important than ever these days. Book Comes Home explores the banning of a book but from the book’s point of view. This is going to be an inspiring and educational story that will hopefully encourage a generation of readers that there is so much to learn from books.

Grandmas are Magic by Yamile Saied Méndez

Grandmas are Magic is another Disney-themed book I’m excited to pick up this year. It features all the wonderful grandmother and grandchild relationships from all the Disney and Pixar movies we know and love. This will make the perfect gift for all the grandmas in our lives, especially around Mother’s Day!

I Loved You First by Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Pierce Bush

I Loved You First is the next book by former first daughters Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Pierce Bush. It celebrates the bond between parents and their children. From the time spent together to learning through each other, this is sure to be a tender and heartfelt story that so many will love.

Snow White by Susana Illera Martínez

In celebration of the new live-action Snow White movie releasing this year, there’s a brand new little golden book release. I’m so excited to see the movie, and I think this little golden book will be the perfect companion to the movie!

A Thousand Years by Christina Perri

We all know and love the song A Thousand Years by Christina Perri, and now we get it in the form of a book! A Thousand Years uses the lyrics from the hit song to celebrate the tender relationship between mother and child. I’m looking forward to seeing the way these lyrics are transformed into book form, especially when paired with stunning illustrations.

The Gobbling Goblins by Maika Llaneza

The Gobbling Goblins is a brand new picture book that is inspired by Filipino mythology. It follows Caden and Cailyn, who forget to say thank you to their Lola for their gifts. When they forget, the gobbling goblins come to take their treasures. It’s going to be a funny and entertaining story that will engage young readers while also reminding them to mind their manners.

The Salt Princess by Anoosha Syed

The Salt Princess is the second book in the Everlasting Tales series, which is a collection of multicultural fairy tales and folktales. In The Salt Princess, Anoosha Syed shares the Pakistani tale of the Salt Princess, who is banished from her kingdom and must try to reunite with her family.

Beatrix Butterfly Wings It for Once by Maren Morris

Beatrix Butterfly Wings It for Once is the second book in the Addie Ant’s Garden Friends series by singer-songwriter Maren Morris. It follows Beatrix Butterfly who wakes up on the wrong side of the bed and starts to feel overwhelmed. But, with the help of some friends, she can share her feelings and find unexpected joy along the way.

Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson

I will always pick up a book illustrated by Dan Santat, especially when it sounds like it has a hilarious premise. Don’t Trust Fish is a humourous story about the villainy of fish, such as the fact that some are big and they spend their time in the water where we can’t see them. I can’t wait to pick this one up!

In-Between Places by Alex Killian

In-Between Places is the perfect new release to pick up if you like Oh, the Places You’ll Go. I think this is going to be a wonderful story that teaches young readers that in life we sometimes know where we’re going, sometimes we don’t and a lot of the time, we’re in-between. I also think this will be a lovely reminder that life is full of challenges and will help readers build their confidence.

The Peddler of Puddles by Beth Ferry and Tom Lichtenheld

I love Stick and Stone, so it’s no surprise that this new book release by Beth Ferry and Tom Lichtenheld is on my list! The Peddler of Puddles follows a sweet turtle who travels the countryside making puddles for his friends. But moving around can be lonely, and the Peddler learns that sometimes there is joy in having your own home.

You Are Home by Bex Tobin

I adore this book cover, and I also think I’m going to love the story inside. You Are Home follows a young child who loses their home and their journey to rebuilding their sense of belonging. I think this will create incredible discussions on what home means to different people. I also think it will help young readers understand that home is what we make it.

Lily the Pond Mermaid by Lucy Fleming

Lily the Pond Mermaid follows Lily, who loves taking care of her pond and all the creatures inside of it. But, sometimes she worries she’s not going to be able to keep everyone safe. When she shares these feelings with her friends, she learns that it’s okay to ask for help. I love that this book highlights the importance of friendship and working together.

Sand Cakes by Kallie George

If Kallie George writes a book, I will always read it. Take a trip to the beach, and while you’re there, join a creative little baker as she makes treats out of the sand for everyone around her. When she realizes that no one wants to try her baked goods, what will she do? I can’t wait to pick up this funny and adorable picture book.

Odder by Katherine Applegate

I’m so excited to pick up this sweet picture book by Katherine Applegate! Based on the middle-grade novel of the same name, this picture book follows Odder, who spends her days underwater. When her life takes a turn, she learns to teach other pups how to otter. I also love that this story is inspired by a real program that pairs orphaned otter pups together.

Cranky, Crabby Crow (Saves the World) by Corey R. Tabor

Cranky, Crabby Crow (Saves the World) is the newest picture book from three-time Geisel Medal and Caldecott Honor-winner Corey R. Tabor. It follows Crow, who is cranky and doesn’t want to play with Squirrel or Hummingbird or Rat or Bat. But, little do his friends know he’s trying to protect the Earth from an asteroid! I can’t wait to read this funny and charming book that will also shed light on social and emotional topics.

Loki! Loki! Where Are You? by Marvel Press Group

Loki! Loki! Where Are You? is another Disney-themed book I can’t wait to pick up. Loki has gone missing, so Thor works with his friends to search Asgard to find his trickster brother. I think this is going to be such a fun search-and-find picture book, especially for Marvel fans!

My Path by Jana Curll

My Path follows a sweet little snail who sets off on an adventure every single day. Sometimes there are days where the path seems impossible, while other days are easy. When this snail decides not to follow the normal path, they face challenges but learn that with perseverance, they can defy the odds.

The Most Magnificent Team by Ashley Spires

I’m so excited that Ashley Spires is releasing another book in the Most Magnificent series! This new addition to the series follows a young girl and her dog while they try to make something special. While working, they notice her neighbour and her cat are also working on something. It’s going to be such a lovely growth mindset book that highlights the joy that comes with working together, even when it’s difficult.

You Be Teacher by Karla Clark

You Be Teacher is the next book in the You Be series. It is a sweet and endearing story that captures the devotion that teachers have towards their students. If you’re a teacher like me, then this book is a definite must-read. If not, I just know this book will make a lovely book and will help young readers honour the important educators in their lives!

Papa Doesn’t Do Anything by Jimmy Fallon

Jimmy Fallon’s picture books are always a delight to read, and this time, he’s releasing one about grandfathers. While it seems like Papa doesn’t do anything at all but sit in his chair, young readers will learn that there’s so much more he has done.

Big Boy Joy by Connie Schofield-Morrison

If you’re a fan of The King of Kindergarten then you don’t want to miss this book! Big Boy Joy follows a young little boy as he journeys through boyhood, from running wild and free to making new friends as well as everything in between!

Falling Star by Linda Liu

Falling Star is the newest release from Linda Liu, author of both Hidden Gem and Sour Apple. It follows a star who unfortunately loses their shine because of the pressure that comes with over-achieving. This book is guaranteed to serve as a reminder that we can always be given the courage to keep going, even if it comes from an unlikely source.

Scarecited on the First Day of School by Alliah L. Agostini

As a teacher, I love finding new picture books that revolve around the emotions and feelings that come with attending school. Scarecited on the First Day of School follows Afua, who is both excited and scared to go to school for the first time. I think this is going to be a gentle reminder that it’s normal to be both nervous and excited about new experiences in life.

The Day the Crayons Made Friends by Drew Daywalt

Are you surprised to see another Crayons book on this list? This new release follows the Crayons as they decide to leave their crayon box for good and explore Duncan’s room. While they’re exploring, they make brand-new friends and experience exciting new adventures.

This Book is Dangerous! by Ben Clanton

If you’re a fan of the Narwhal and Jelly graphic novels, then you don’t want to miss this brand-new picture book! In this new release, readers will follow Jelly as they safely navigate through the dangerous ocean. I’m so excited to see Narwhal and Jelly in picture book form, I just know it’ll be delightful!

In the Wild by Zadie Smith and Nick Laird

In the Wild is a new picture book by authors Zadie Smith and Nick Laird. It follows Maud, a guinea pig who is proud to be an oddball. While off in the wild with her owner Kit, they make new friends, explore new worlds and learn a bit about bravery in the process.

Stay for Dinner by Sandhya Parappukkaran

Stay for Dinner is a charming story that follows Reshma, who loves dinnertime with her family, especially since they eat with their hands. When she visits her friends’ houses for dinner, she learns that they all eat differently. I think this is going to be such a fun and inclusive story that will also be perfect for food lovers!

There: We Can Find Our Way by Ally Condie

If you are a fan of the young adult Matched series, then you’ll want to pick up this picture book from the bestselling author. There: We Can Find Our Way is a delightful picture book that explores worries and anxiety. It shares the importance of taking our time to get to our destination while honouring the emotions we have, all with friends by our side.