60 More Picture Books I’m Excited to Read in 2025

Millie Fleur Saves the Night by Christy Mandin

I love Christy Mandin’s picture books, and I’m so excited for this whimsical sequel to Millie Fleur’s Poison Garden. It follows Millie Fleur, who sets out to convince a town afraid of the dark to switch off the lights and rediscover nighttime magic.

Norman and the Smell of Adventure by Ryan T. Higgins

I will always pick up a book by Ryan T. Higgins, especially if it features Norman. Norman the porcupine decides to try an adventure without his best friend—who happens to be a tree. I already know it’ll be full of humour and heart.

The Power of Friendship by Virginia Murphy

I can’t resist a good Little Golden Book, especially if it’s Buffy-themed. It follows Buffy, Willow, Xander, and Giles as they take on vampires and curses. It’s the perfect nostalgic book for fans and a great introduction for little readers.

The Tour at School by Katie Clapham

As a teacher, I love finding books that are perfect for back-to-school season (and beyond). The Tour at School follows a confident student who shows a newcomer the “important” school spots—from echoey bathrooms to the chestnut tree—while reminding them of the power of a friendly welcome.

This is How We Talk by Jessica Slice and Caroline Cupp

Inclusive books are incredibly important to me. This is How We Talk is a joyful book that celebrates all the ways people communicate—from clapping to signing to stimming. I know it will be an empowering read for readers of all ages, and I look forward to introducing it to the classroom.

When You Wish Upon a Ghost by Tim McCanna

If you’ve been around for a while, you’ll know that I can’t resist a good Disney-themed book. I also happen to love The Haunted Mansion ride at Disney World, so this is a definite must-read for me. In this fun book, The Haunted Mansion’s Raven is on a rhyming, seek-and-find mission to round up ghosts for a spooky soirée.

Fish Don’t Go to School by Deb Pilutti

If you’re looking for a sweet story about self-expression, friendship, and staying true to yourself, I think Fish Don’t Go to School will be perfect! It follows Henry, who wears his glittery fish suit everywhere, but on the first day of school, it’s more than fashion—it’s courage.

Hazel is All That by Chad Otis

The cover of this one immediately drew me in, but it’s the story inside that hooked me. Hazel thinks she’s nailed first impressions—until a day in the park teaches her that dogs (and people) are more than one thing. I think Hazel is All That will be a gentle reminder that we all have different sides.

Narwhal vs. Kindergarten by Vanessa Roeder

How adorable is this title and cover? Narwhal vs. Kindergarten is a warm and funny tale about problem-solving, inclusion, and working together. It follows Hugo, whose horn makes school tricky until he finds friends who help him find clever accommodations.

Creepy Sheepy by Lucy Ruth Cummins

I loved Sleepy Sheepy—and I’m just as excited for this new addition to the series. Sleepy Sheepy wants to be the scariest werewolf on Halloween—but blending in with real werewolves isn’t quite the plan. I can’t wait to read this one!

The Day the Books Disappeared by Joanna Ho and Caroline Kusin Pritchard

Joanna Ho has quickly become a favourite children’s book author for me. The Day the Books Disappeared follows Arnold, who discovers he can make “boring” books disappear. But, he goes a little too far—and loses even his favourite. I think this will be a clever and powerful story about curiosity and empathy.

Tiny T. Rex and the First-Day Oopsies by Jonathan Stutzman

The Tiny T. Rex series is so fun! In this new addition, Tiny T. Rex thinks he’s totally ready for his first day—until a few “oopsies” prove otherwise. It sounds like it will be a funny, heartwarming back-to-school story about learning through your mistakes.

We Are Already Here! by Gideon Sterer

When I’m looking for some read-alouds this fall, I can see myself reaching for We Are Already Haunting Here! It follows a tiny ghost who searches for the perfect haunt, only to meet another ghost in need of a place to stay. It sounds like equal parts sweet and spooky.

We’re Different and It’s Totally Cool! by Camey Yeh

I’m so excited to pick up We’re Different and It’s Totally Cool! With playful comparisons and bright illustrations, this book celebrates the many ways we’re unique—inside and out. We all need a reminder that what makes us different also makes us awesome.

The Marvelous Now by Angela DiTerlizzi

I am such a huge fan of The Curious Yet series, so it’s no surprise that The Marvelous Now is on this list. This new addition to the series is a gentle, rhythmic guide to mindfulness for kids learning to handle big feelings. I already know the illustrations will be colourful and engaging, while the story inside will be calming and entertaining.

How to Catch a Babysaurus by Alice Walstead

I never miss a book in the How to Catch series. The How to Catch crew is on the case again—this time wrangling a runaway Babysaurus. This series is such a fun and silly STEAM-packed adventure, and I’m really looking forward to adding a new one to my collection.

How to Catch Bigfoot by Alice Walstead

If one new How to Catch wasn’t enough, I’ve got two on this list! Camping turns wild when the How to Catch kids meet a very real, very hairy Bigfoot. I’m excited for the outdoor setting in this one!

The Wishing Leaf by Kallie George

Kallie George is another one of my favourite children’s book authors (her Anne series is a must-read!). In The Wishing Leaf, Bear waits for the forest’s last leaf to fall so he can make a wish—if he can stay awake long enough. I already know it will be a sweet and cozy story about patience and the magic that comes with a new season.

Aggie and the Ghost by Matthew Forsythe

This cover is so cute! Aggie’s new house comes with a ghost and a few ground rules—until a high-stakes game of tic-tac-toe changes everything. I’m very intrigued by this one!

I Hate Everything by Sophy Henn

This cover and book title make me giggle—I can’t wait to pick it up. One grumpy ghost insists he hates it all—until his friend helps him see otherwise. I think it will show readers of all ages that even the bad days have a little bit of good in them.

Can I Keep It, Please? by John Sullivan

I’m an animal lover, so it’s no surprise this book is on this list. Evie starts wondering if her beloved cat Sasha is too ordinary—until she realizes love is what makes any pet special. I’m also very excited for the illustrations in this one!

The Invisible Parade by Leigh Bardugo and John Picacio

I can’t miss reading Leigh Bardugo’s picture book debut! On Día de Muertos, Cala’s grief keeps her from celebrating—until four mysterious riders show her that courage can be found in unexpected places. It sounds like a magical and moving tale!

The Little Ghost Quilt’s Winter Surprise by Riel Nason

I loved The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt, so I’m ecstatic there’s a sequel! It follows a patchwork ghost who loves winter’s chill, but wishes his shivering sheet friends could join the fun. I just know it’s going to be as good, if not better, than the first book!

You Are Not Alone by Ingrid Law

I always love finding bedtime stories to recommend to friends and family. This lyrical bedtime read reminds kids that nighttime is full of quiet company—from family down the hall to stars in the sky. I think it’ll be the perfect reminder to young readers that they’re never alone.

Children of the Throne by Joseph Coelho

Children of the Throne sounds like a hopeful and magical take on climate change and how things can change with community action. It follows three kids who set out to show adults that nature isn’t just to be admired—it’s worth protecting.

Fa La La Family by Scott Hoying and Mark Hoying

This one will be perfect for the upcoming holiday season! Pentatonix’s Scott Hoying and husband Mark Hoying celebrate the many ways families—born, chosen, and furry—share Christmas joy. With Scott’s musical background, I think this one will be lyrical and magical.

One Can Be by Pat Zietlow Miller

I love Pat Zietlow Miller’s books. This new release honours introverts, quiet leaders, and book lovers in this ode to creating community. A gentle reminder that big things can grow from small, thoughtful beginnings.

Santa Claws by Bridget Heos

Santa Claws is another upcoming holiday release I’m excited for. Santa Claus might bring toys to kids, but Santa Claws delivers to dinosaurs. If you have a young reader who is obsessed with dinosaurs, this is a must-read!

The Bookshop on Lemon Tree Lane by Mike Lucas

There’s nothing better than a bookstore. In The Bookshop on Lemon Tree Lane, a boy’s beloved bookshop closes—but something wonderful springs up in its place. I think it will be a sweet story about bookshops and the magic that they hold.

Just Shine! How to Be a Better You by Sonia Sotomayor

Just Shine! sounds like a wonderful and empowering read. Inspired by her mother’s gift for bringing out the best in people, Justice Sonia Sotomayor shares a luminous story about helping others find their own glow.

My Grandma and Grandpa Rock! by Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo’s read-aloud tribute to grandparents celebrates every kind of “rock”—from music to dancing to just living joyfully. There’s no way I would want to miss this release!

When Auggie Learned to Play Chess by Meredith Rusu

I recently watched The Queen’s Gambit (yes, I was late to the party!), and now I’m interested in all things chess. When Auggie Learned to Play Chess is a tender father-son story that follows Auggie, who finds confidence and makes a new friend while learning chess with his dad.

Everything Grows in Jiddo’s Garden by Jenan A. Matari

Everything Grows in Jiddo’s Garden is a moving debut that highlights displacement and the feeling of belonging. It follows a Palestinian girl who learns identity, heritage, and hope in her grandfather’s garden.

Have Yourself a Cheesy Little Christmas by Jory John

Jory John is my absolute favourite, and when he releases a new book within the Food Group universe, you bet I’ll be picking it up! When disaster strikes his over-the-top holiday party, the Big Cheese learns new traditions can be just as magical. It’s going to be such festive fun!

If We Were Dogs by Sophie Blackall

How adorable is this cover? If We Were Dogs follows two friends who imagine their lives as dogs (and ducks, and more). It’s going to be such a sweet and joyful celebration of friendship and imagination.

Snow Kid by Jessie Sima

Jessie Sima writes and illustrates such wonderful books. In Snow Kid, a snow kid wonders who they are as pieces blow away and change comes calling. I know it will be a cozy winter read!

How to Say Thank You by Jean Reagan

I always enjoy the books in the How To series, so I’m looking forward to picking this one up. From parades to snacks to new friends, gratitude comes in all sizes. It’ll be a sweet and warm story about how we can show thankfulness.

Billie Jean Peet, Athlete by Andrea Beaty

The Questioneers is a wonderful series, so it’s no surprise this next release is on my list! In a musical family, Billie Jean fears she’s just “so-so”—until she blends her passions into something new.

Buffalo Fluffalo and Puffalo by Bess Kalb

I’m so excited for the next book in the Buffalo Fluffalo series. This sequel follows Fluffalo, who isn’t sure about his noisy new sibling—until Puffalo proves life’s better together. I think it will be the perfect mixture of funny and sweet.

Piccolo by Dan Yaccarino

This cover is so cute! Piccolo zips around the city helping friends so he can tick off his favourite spots—all except one. It’s going to be a sweet and adventurous story about friendship and teamwork.

These ABCs Belong to Me! by Alicia McKenzie

There’s nothing better than a good alphabet picture book. These ABCs Belong to Me is an empowering alphabet book that turns labels into superpowers, celebrating every child’s unique strengths.

I Am Not Happy! by Caroline L. Perry

I can’t get over how adorable this cover is, and I’m just so excited to pick it up! Quokkas may look like the happiest animals on Earth, but this one wants you to know—looks can be deceiving. I think this book will be a great reminder that we should never judge a book (or animal) by its cover.

I’m Very Busy by Oliver Jeffers

Oliver Jeffers is a must-read children’s author for me. I’m Very Busy follows Bridget, who wants to spend her birthday with friends, but everyone’s “too busy.” Paired with his signature illustrations, this is guaranteed to be a heartfelt story.

Moon Song by Michaela Goade

I loved Berry Song, so I’m really looking forward to picking up the sequel, Moon Song. On a winter island, a girl comforts her cousin with stories of moonlight, glowing seas, and northern lights.

Rainbow Fish and the Great Escape by Marcus Pfister

Rainbow Fish brings back such nostalgic memories for me. Rainbow Fish and friends face a dangerous net—but quick thinking and teamwork save the day. It’s a beloved series for a reason, and I’m looking forward to this next release!

Sammy Feels Shy by Tom Percival

Sammy loves fun but hates the spotlight—until turning bright pink forces him to face his fears. It sounds like a gentle but heartwarming story about shyness and finding your bravery. I have a feeling this will be a great hit in the classroom!

The Gift of Words by Peter H. Reynolds

In The Gift of Words, Jerome searches for holiday words of hope and joy to share with his community. I already know this will be a fantastic new read from Peter H. Reynolds.

You Are Brotherly Love by Emma Carlson Berne

I’m a big fan of Taylor Swift, and that means I’m now a huge fan of the Kelce Brothers. This new picture book celebrates the spirit of football stars Jason and Travis Kelce, and I can’t wait to read it!

Just Another Perfect Day by Jillian Harris and Justin Pasutto

When everything goes wrong—coffee spills, lawn mowers escape—this family still ends the day laughing around the dinner table. Jillian Harris’ new picture book will definitely be a cozy and funny look at embracing the chaos of everyday life.

Never Give a Baby a Library Card by Erin Sandberg

The title of this one totally grabbed me! Because once babies get books, there’s no telling what they’ll learn—or what chaos they’ll cause! I think this will be such a sweet and hilarious story about libraries and the power of reading.

The Great American Mousical by Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton

I adore Julie Andrews, which means her next children’s book had to be on this list. Beneath a grand Broadway theatre, a troupe of mice prepares for opening night—until their star goes missing. I love that Julie Andrews wrote this with her daughter—I can’t wait to pick it up!

A Cure for the Hiccups by Jennifer E. Smith and Brandon James Scott

I’ve enjoyed Jennifer E. Smith’s young adult books, so I’m looking forward to picking up this picture book. Max will try anything to cure her hiccups—except waiting. It’ll be a humorous and heartwarming reminder that sometimes patience is the best fix.

Goodnight, Crayons by Drew Daywalt

The Crayons series is a staple in my world! In Goodnight, Crayons, everyone’s favourite crayons are getting ready for sleep … or trying to.

The Coziest Place on the Moon by Maria Popova

There’s something so special about space-themed books. Lonely Re flies to the moon for solitude—and finds another soul already there. I expect it to be a sweet story about friendship, even across large distances.

The Heart That Found You by Anna Schocket

I think The Heart That Found You will be a great book for the classroom. It’s a tender adoption story that follows Heart’s journey to love and belonging. Paired with the beautiful illustrations, I already know I’m going to love it.

The Humble Pie by Jory John

We’ve already established that I love Jory John’s books. As soon as I heard of the next addition to the Food Group series, I immediately added it to my list of books to read. Humble Pie likes the background—until he learns that speaking up can be just as sweet as staying quiet.

The Golden Girls: Love is Golden by Brandon T. Snider

Even though this is a board book, I can’t resist adding it to this list! Packed with show references, warm laughs, and lots of heartfelt moments, Love is Golden will be perfect for all ages.

Paper Chase by Julia Donaldson

The premise of Paper Chase is just so sweet. Two friends share a day under a tree—until it’s gone. But the tree’s next life as paper might just bring them back together.

Groundhog vs. Cupid by Todd Tarpley

The Festive Feuds series is so fun! Two holidays, one spotlight. Will Cupid and Groundhog learn to share, or will their seasonal showdown get out of hand?

You Lift Me Up by Francesco Sedita

A Dirty Dancing-themed book is a must-read in my opinion. This will be a sweet and adorable illustrated tribute to the film’s most iconic moments—perfect for fans of all ages.