A new year is just around the corner, which makes it the perfect time to share a list of 55 incredible new picture books to read in 2022!
I love reading picture books. They can be full of fun and silly moments, but they can also hold a lot of powerful messages.
As a teacher, I’m always looking for new books to introduce to students and these 55 new picture books releasing in 2022 are sure to become new favourites — not only for me, but for kids too.
From humourous and heartfelt stories to non-fiction titles, there’s something on this list for every kind of reader. And, with gorgeous illustrations to accompany each title, these books will be perfect for readers of all ages.
Whether you’re a parent looking for new and anticipated picture books or a teacher looking for the best classroom read-alouds in 2022, this list is a great help. While these books are tailored to my personal reading taste, I will be putting together lists of new picture book releases each month, so be sure to check back all throughout the new year.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of my links, I may earn a very small commission, at no additional cost to you.
January 2022 Picture Books
January 1st • Holidays & Celebrations • Albert Whitman & Company
Gauri is excited to splash colors on everyone for Holi. But when she doesn’t get her favorite color, Gauri gets mad. Will she find a way to overcome her anger and join in the festivities?
January 1st • Disney Parks • Little Golden Books / Disney
Blast off on an epic space adventure in this new Little Golden Book-inspired by the popular Disney Parks Attraction Space Mountain!
Fly through space, swerve around asteroids, and discover the universe in this book inspired by the iconic Disney Park Attraction Space Mountain. Perfect for children ages 2 to 5 and Disney fans of all ages, this Little Golden Book is a great way to celebrate National Astronaut Day with your little space explorer!
January 4th • Self-Esteem • HarperCollins
New York Times bestselling team Joanna Ho and Dung Ho present Eyes That Speak to the Stars, companion to the acclaimed Eyes That Kiss in the Corners.
A young Asian boy notices that his eyes look different from his peers’ after seeing his friend’s drawing of them. After talking to his father, the boy realizes that his eyes rise to the skies and speak to the stars, shine like sunlit rays, and glimpse trails of light from those who came before—in fact, his eyes are like his father’s, his agong’s, and his little brother’s, and they are visionary.
Inspired by the men in his family, he recognizes his own power and strength from within. This extraordinary picture book redefines what it means to be truly you.
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners received three starred reviews and was embraced as breathtaking, lyrical, and poignant. This companion volume is sure to be welcomed with equal joy.
January 4th • People & Places • Nancy Paulsen Books
Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael López’s highly anticipated companion to their #1 New York Times bestseller The Day You Begin illuminates the power in each of us to face challenges with confidence.
On a dreary, stuck-inside kind of day, a brother and sister heed their grandmother’s advice: “Use those beautiful and brilliant minds of yours. Lift your arms, close your eyes, take a deep breath, and believe in a thing. Somebody somewhere at some point was just as bored you are now.” And before they know it, their imaginations lift them up and out of their boredom. Then, on a day full of quarrels, it’s time for a trip outside their minds again, and they are able to leave their anger behind. This precious skill, their grandmother tells them, harkens back to the days long before they were born, when their ancestors showed the world the strength and resilience of their beautiful and brilliant minds.
Jacqueline Woodson’s lyrical text and Rafael Lopez’s dazzling art celebrate the extraordinary ability to lift ourselves up and imagine a better world.
January 11th • Animals • Balzer + Bray
This clever picture book is a delightful introduction to the White House from an unusual point of view: that of the first cat.
You’ve heard of the President, the First Lady, and maybe even some first dogs who have lived at the White House. But what about the first cat?
Follow along on this very special tour of the People’s House—you’ll see who really runs things around here …
With detailed illustrations and chock-full of fun facts about this historic residence—and the real first cats—this picture book is the perfect way to introduce children to the White House.
January 18th • People & Places • Doubleday Books for Young Readers
Confident, empowered girls are celebrated in this follow-up to Happy Hair, a flower-filled, nature-loving, read-together picture book that encourages growth and positivity,
Lovely and wise, shine at sunrise! I am growing each day!
Beautiful Black girls with gorgeous natural hairstyles full of flowers, butterflies, and other garden treasures are the stars of this vibrant, rhythmic picture book from the author/illustrator of Happy Hair and Cool Cuts. Set in a backdrop of nature’s glorious color and bounty, it’s a great springtime read-aloud to promote confidence and self-esteem for girls of all ages.
January 18th • Biography • Henry Holt & Co
An innovative and joyful picture book biography that celebrates the life and achievements of TV legend, pioneer, and activist Betty White.
Betty White is a legend and icon (but you already knew that).
In her eighty-year career, she has starred on some of the most beloved shows of all time (like The Mary Tyler Moore Show and The Golden Girls, along with dozens more) and has received multiple Emmy, American Comedy, and Screen Actors Guild Awards, as well as a Grammy and People’s Choice Award, not to mention a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame!
More than creating some of the most memorable roles in history, Betty has helped to make the world a better and more equal place. Early in her career, at a time when women had little power in Hollywood, she starred in, directed, and produced her own shows, creating opportunities for other women and for people from marginalized groups. She has campaigned to end bullying and has stood up for the LGBTQIA+ community. And she has devoted much of her life advocating for the fair treatment of animals.
This innovative picture book biography follows a young boy who is doing a class presentation about Betty White … with a little help from Betty herself! Whimsical yet fact-filled, That’s Betty! tells the story of a life well-lived while celebrating Betty’s many fans.
January 25th • Biography • Quill Tree Books
From award-winning author Jen Bryant and illustrator Toshiki Nakamura comes the inspiring story of Patsy Takemoto Mink, the first Asian American woman elected to Congress.
At a young age, Patsy Takemoto Mink learned that working toward a goal could come with challenges. But she never gave up. As the Japanese proverb says, Fall down seven times, stand up eight.
That spirit helped Patsy through life. When she wanted to become a doctor, medical schools refused to admit her because of her gender. So Patsy carved her own path. She went to law school; ran for a seat in the United States Congress; and helped create Title IX, the law that requires federally funded schools to treat boys and girls equally. Although many people tried to knock her down, Patsy always got up again. She was a historic trailblazer who championed equal rights and helped create a better future for all Americans.
January 25th • Non-Fiction • Philomel Books
A fun and meaningful story about making the world—and your community—better, one action at a time, that asks the question: Who will you help today?
Every night when Sonia goes to bed, Mami asks her the same question: How did you help today? And since Sonia wants to help her community, just like her Mami does, she always makes sure she has a good answer to Mami’s question.
In a story inspired by her own family’s desire to help others, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor takes young readers on a journey through a neighborhood where kids and adults, activists and bus drivers, friends and strangers all help one another to build a better world for themselves and their community.
With art by award-winning illustrator Angela Dominguez, this book shows how we can all help make the world a better place each and every day.
January 25th • Animals • Viking Books for Young Readers
A beautiful watercolor celebration of the love between ocean mamas and their babies, big and small.
From whales and dolphins, to hermit crabs and jellyfish, the ocean is filled with many different creatures. Join them on this imaginary undersea journey as ocean mamas care for their babies, each in their own special way! Because one thing is universal: there’s no other love like that between mamas and their little ones.
With bright and beautiful watercolor illustrations comes this tender and heartwarming celebration of all the different mamas and babies you can find, especially those that live under the sea.
February 2022 Picture Books
February 1st • Non-Fiction, Space • Crown Books for Young Readers
First man on the moon Neil Armstrong’s only children’s book is a unique exploration of how the Earth and the Moon came to be.
The entire epic history of the Earth and the Moon is recounted through the observations of one special moon rock named Bok. Geologists say that rocks remember, and Bok certainly does. It recounts how its life began on Earth, until a collision with an asteroid catapults it into orbit during the creation of the Moon.
From the Moon’s surface, Bok watches the developing planet change from afar—until a strange creature scoops him up and brings him back to Earth.
When NASA honored Apollo 11 astronaut Neil Armstrong and gave him a piece of moon rock from that mission, Armstrong playfully named the rock Bok in his acceptance speech. Award-winning illustrator Grahame Baker-Smith has created a breathtaking, one-of-a-kind picture book based on that speech, combining fascinating science and history with the grandest human adventure of all.
February 1st • Family, Self-Esteem • Feiwel & Friends
This lyrical, uplifting picture book is an ode to the immigrant experience and a declaration of Chinese American joy.
What do you see when you look in the mirror, Mei? Do you see beauty?
We see eyes that point toward the sun, that give us the warmth and joy of a thousand rays when you smile. We see hair as inky black and smooth as a peaceful night sky. We see skin brushed with gold.
This joyful and lyrical picture book from New York Times-bestselling author Eva Chen is a moving ode to the immigrant experience, as well as a manifesto of self-love for Chinese American children.
February 1st • People & Places • Random House Books for Young Readers
A picture book that celebrates music, love, and family from New York Times bestselling author Cedella Marley. A poetic story about a young girl who moves to a new country and learns to make friends—inspired by a childhood growing up with the musician Bob Marley as a father.
When Marley and her family move from Jamaica to Delaware, she knows life is about to change in big ways. And she’s got the perfect plan to help her and her siblings make friends: an outdoor concert for the whole neighborhood!
But when weather ruins their plans, she discovers help in the most unlikely places as her new neighbors quickly become the kindest of friends.
In this joyful, vibrant picture book inspired by her childhood and iconic father, Cedella Marley assures children that nothing can stop the music as long as they have community.
February 8th • Emotions • G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers
This highly anticipated follow-up to the critically acclaimed and bestselling picture book In a Jar stars one little bunny dealing with some very big feelings.
Llewellyn does not like to feel afraid or sad, angry, lonely, or embarrassed. And so he comes up with a brilliant plan: he tucks each of his feelings into jars and hides them away where they won’t bother him anymore. But when he gets in trouble in class, Llewellyn finds he needs to put away excitement too. And when joy is quickly followed by disappointment, he decides to get rid of joy as well. After a while, Llewellyn walks around not feeling much of anything at all. And what happens when his emotions refuse to be bottled up any longer?
In this richly illustrated and universally relatable picture book, Llewellyn soon discovers that life is more colorful when he sets his emotions free. And only then, by facing and embracing each of his feelings, is he finally able to let them go.
February 15th • Emotions, Verse • Viking Books for Young Readers
The bestselling creators of Llama Llama and Skippyjon Jones bring warmth and humor to a story with a comforting message we could all use when times are tough: everything will be OK.
Nothing is going right for little bunny today.
His sandwich has jelly instead of cheese.
He’s lost his kite.
Ow! And he’s stubbed his toe!
But while some days can feel more sad than happy, there’s always a bright spot on the horizon. Anna Dewdney and Judy Schachner perfectly blend rhyme, humor, and comfort to show readers the way out of a tough spot—no matter if it’s big or small.
February 15th • Mermaids • Katherine Tegen Books
In this humorous sequel to New York Times bestselling author Kelly DiPucchio and artist Raissa Figueroa’s bestselling Oona, readers will find a heartwarming tale about the unexpected ways in which friendships can form—even between a tiny Black mermaid and a shy hammerhead shark.
Oona loves to share her inventions with her friends.
They’re big and bold and LOUD—just like her!
But there’s one underwater creature who doesn’t seem to enjoy Oona’s company, or her creations.
Stanley the shark doesn’t care for her squeaky unicorn. And he’s far too busy for the Sea Horse Carousal. And oh GOODNESS! Oona’s latest hopping, chopping, and popping inventions just make him angry.
Oona may not know what Stanley likes, but she does know what he doesn’t. And maybe that’s a good place to start. Because mermaids never stop trying … not when there’s a friend out there to make.
March 2022 Picture Books
March 1st • Friendship • Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
There’s something that I’ve noticed.
Perhaps you’ve seen it, too.
Life is so much better
when it’s me and you.
From the time we are young, we are drawn to special people—the ones who complete our sentences and who know our favorite color, food, and song. The people who understand us and make us happier than anyone else in the world. After all, no matter how much time passes or how many miles tug us apart, there is no one quite like a best friend.
From New York Times bestselling creators Pat Zietlow Miller and Eliza Wheeler, this jubilant celebration of friendship and the adventures of childhood will make your heart sing.
March 8th • Holidays & Celebrations • Random House Studio
Two-time Caldecott Honor author/illustrator Lane Smith tells a whimsical story about a little rabbit searching for the best gift for someone very special.
A thoughtful little Rabbit sets out to find the perfect gift for his Nana. He knows she will love anything he brings her but Rabbit wants this gift to be extra special. As he travels on his quest, Rabbit encounters an assortment of creatures-a crow, a smiling full moon, a stickler (whatever that is), a big fish, and a volcano. Each is certain they offer the best advice but nothing they suggest seems right for his Nana. It’s not until Rabbit reaches the highest peak, that he finds exactly what he’s been searching for.
The award-winning illustrator of bestsellers including Penguin Problems and Giraffe Problems, brings originality and gentle humor to a story that parents and grandparents will be sharing with their children for years to come.
March 15th • Nature • Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Jory John’s Bad Seed series meets After the Fall by Dan Santat in this charming picture book about a young acorn’s grand adventure and the incredible transformation that follows.
Acorn is a little wild, and from his oak tree perch, he longs for adventure. When he’s the first of his friends to jump off the oak tree, he’s on his way into the wide world, full of new experiences that fill his little heart with excitement!
But when a squirrel buries Acorn deep underground, the thrill-seeking Acorn finds himself forced to stay still, in the darkness, for a long time. To turn this biggest setback into a wild adventure, Acorn may have to change from the inside out.
March 15th • Humour • Flamingo Books
From the incomparable host of “Late Night with Seth Meyers” comes a hilarious new picture book.
When you’re a bear who is easily scared, it’s hard to have friends. Fortunately, Bear has one: Rabbit, who is very brave. One day, Rabbit urges Bear to face his fears and embark on an adventure together. However, things don’t entirely go as planned, and the two friends learn the true meaning of bravery.
Equal parts hilarious and touching, this funny tale of adventure, bravery, and daring rescue will both inspire the adventurous spirit in all of us and make us laugh along the way. With the unfailingly witty voice of one of America’s favorite comedians, Seth Meyers’s debut picture book is bound for hilarity history.
March 15th • Humour • Farrar, Straus and Giroux
For little ones reluctant to say good night, here is a laugh-out-loud picture book from #1 New York Times–bestselling author Jory John.
Attention, readers—this book is going to help you fall right asleep! No, seriously. It’s going to make you so tired. Monsters crash through the pages! Electric guitars jam out all night! Counting sheep that are being chased by DRAGONS! Are you asleep yet? No? Hmm … let’s try something else …
This hilarious story from #1 New York Times–bestselling author Jory John and acclaimed illustrator Olivier Tallec will show energetic little ones so many different methods of falling asleep that they just might get tired after all!
March 29th • Emotions • Abrams Books for Young Readers
From New York Times bestselling author Andrea Beaty and New York Times bestselling illustrator Vashti Harrison, a sweet and playful bedtime book that reminds young readers just how loved they are.
I love you like yellow.
I love you like green.
Like flowery orchid
and sweet tangerine …
Love comes in many forms. It can feel tart as lemonade, or sweet as sugar cookies. Slow as a lazy morning, or fast as a relay race. Love is there through it all: the large and small moments, the good times and bad. And at the end of the day, love settles us down to bed with a hug and kiss goodnight.
With charming, rhyming text from bestselling author Andrea Beaty and lush, heartwarming illustrations by bestselling illustrator Vashti Harrison, I Love You Like Yellow celebrates the unconditional love that pulses through life’s profound and everyday moments—and the people who make them so special.
March 29th • People & Places • Candlewick
A tender, beautifully illustrated story about a girl in America and her grandmother in India, whose love stretches between languages and cultures—and across the world.
When Jyoti visits her grandmother halfway around the world, she is overwhelmed by the differences between India and home. At first she feels lonely and out of place, but soon, despite a language barrier, she and Sita Pati are able to understand each other. They form a bond—looking at books together, making designs with colored sand, shopping at the market, playing games, eating chapatis, and sipping warm milk with saffron to bring sweet dreams. When it’s time to part, Jyoti doesn’t want to leave, but then she remembers that in Tamil, people don’t say goodbye, they say “I’ll go and come back.” Sure enough, the two reunite the next summer when Pati visits Jyoti in America, and it’s Jyoti’s turn to make her grandmother feel welcome. Can they create some special memories that will last until the next time they see each other?
March 29th • Music • Razorbill
A rip-roarin’, rock ’n’ roll picture book by international music star Kevin Jonas and his wife, Danielle Jonas, about the joy of music, the power of family, and facing your fears.
Emma loves music.
She loves the boom boom boom of a good bass beat.
She loves the stomp stomp stomp her feet make when she dances.
She loves to rock out with her mom, her dad, and her little sister.
And she loves to twang, strum, and thrum on her guitar.
So when the sign-up sheet for the school talent show is posted, she adds her name right away! But the more Emma hears about the amazing talents her classmates will bring, the more nervous she gets. What if her guitar playing is more of a plink, plonk, squeak?
She’s suffering from a bad case of stage fright, and it’s up to her family to show her that performing can be fun too, and that she’s already a star.
March 29th • School • Candlewick
A moving celebration of school and all it may signify: work and play, creativity and trust, and a supportive community that extends beyond walls.
A school isn’t just a building; it is all the people who work and learn together. It is a place for discovery and asking questions. A place for sharing, for helping, and for community. It is a place of hope and healing, even when that community can’t be together in the same room. John Schu, a librarian and former ambassador of school libraries for Scholastic, crafts a loving letter to schools and the people that make up the communities within in a picture book debut beautifully illustrated by Veronica Miller Jamison.
April 2022 Picture Books
April 5th • Non-Fiction • Scholastic Inc
An inspiring story of a friendship between Congressman John Lewis and ten-year-old activist Tybre Faw by New York Times bestselling and Coretta Scott King Award-winning author Andrea Davis Pinkney!
Ten-year-old Tybre Faw is obsessed with history and the civil rights movement, and he devours every book he can find on the subject. When he learns of Congressman John Lewis’s harrowing and heroic march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in the fight for the right to vote, Tybre is determined to meet him.
Tybre’s two grandmothers take him on the seven-hour drive to Selma. And as the two meet and become fast friends, Tybre joins Lewis for the annual walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge!
When John Lewis is laid to rest, Tybre is invited to read Lewis’s favorite poem, “Invictus,” at the funeral service. Pinkney weaves this story of a boy with a dream—with the story of a true-life hero (who himself was inspired by Martin Luther King when he was a boy).
Who will be next to rise up and turn the page on history?
April 5th • Non-Fiction, Self-Esteem • Scholastic Inc
An inspiring story of identity and self-esteem from celebrated athlete and activist Colin Kaepernick.
When Colin Kaepernick was five years old, he was given a simple school assignment: draw a picture of yourself and your family. What young Colin does next with his brown crayon changes his whole world and worldview, providing a valuable lesson on embracing and celebrating his Black identity through the power of radical self-love and knowing your inherent worth.
I Color Myself Differentis a joyful ode to Black and Brown lives based on real events in young Colin’s life that is perfect for every reader’s bookshelf. It’s a story of self-discovery, staying true to one’s self, and advocating for change … even when you’re very little!
April 5th • Self-Esteem • Scholastic Inc
In this universal story about embracing who we are and where we come from, a young girl finds the magic, power, and history of wearing a bindi for the first time, in this moving and lyrical picture book debut from Gita Varadarajan.
There in the mirror, I see a shining star.
My mother’s joy, my father’s pride.
And then I see something else:
I see me.
Divya is scared to put on the bindi for the first time. What if she gets made fun of? What will it feel like? But Amma assures her that her bindi will bring protection. After Divya looks inside Amma’s special box to find the perfect bindi to put on, she gazes in the mirror and discovers a new side of herself, and it gives her strength.
In this tender debut picture book, author Gita Varadarajan crafts a powerful story about belonging, embracing your heritage, and believing in yourself. Archana Sreenivasan’s vibrant and magical illustrations bring to life this journey of self-discovery. My Bindi is a universal message of the importance finding oneself and celebrating the unique beliefs and experiences that make us who we are.
April 26th • Family • Viking Books for Young Readers
A loving ode to modern motherhood by Kelly Rowland and Jessica McKay.
Grammy Award–winning artist Kelly Rowland and educator Jessica McKay have crafted a lyrical celebration of working moms everywhere and a soothing story for their children. As a mother gets ready to go to work, first she works on building the world for her child. Because it can sometimes be hard to be separated during the day, Mom collects some simple words that she and her child can repeat whenever they are missing each other or feeling overwhelmed:
Always with you,
always with me,
mommy and child,
together we’ll be.
April 26th • Self-Esteem • Little Simon
From the author of Curls and Glow comes a joyfully poetic board book that delivers an ode to African American girls as naturally beautiful in our human garden.
those girls bloom
these do too
we bloom like flowers
how about you?
Introduce young readers to the idea of self-love in a simple, playful rhythm with this luminous story where each little girl is as unique and beautiful as a blossoming flower.
April 26th • Bedtime, Board Book • LB Kids
Celebrate your love of the iconic 1980s sitcom with this charming board book that fans will want to share with the youngest readers at bedtime.
Dorothy, Blanche, and Rose are having a sleepover! And, of course, they are having too much fun to go to sleep. As Ma tries to get them to settle down, the girls enjoy some cheesecake in the kitchen, try on their dress-up clothes, sing and dance, and say goodnight to their friends Stan and Miles. Finally, after taking a bath and putting on their pj’s, they all squeeze into bed and listen to one of Ma’s Sicily stories before they drift off together.
Illustrated with bright and charming art, full of Easter eggs and nods to iconic show gags—from St. Olaf to Shady Pines—Goodnight, Girls will simultaneously delight kids AND adults.
April 26th • Science Fiction • Disney Press
This hardcover jacketed picture book captures the humor and antics of Buzz and his new friend in this story inspired by the film.
Featuring beautiful artwork and packed with heart and humor, this book is perfect for fans of Buzz Lightyear.
May 2022 Picture Books
May 3rd • Emotions, Grief • Quill Tree Books
New York Times bestselling author Pat Zietlow Miller and celebrated artist Paola Escobar team up for a picture book with an empowering message: No matter your size, you can do big things.
A small voice can travel for miles.
Showing kindness.
Hope.
And love.
On their own, kids might feel like they can’t make meaningful change. After all, what can one small person do? But what this joyful book imparts is that when we join together, we become something bigger—an unstoppable force. Each and every one of us can use our voice!
New York Times bestselling author Pat Zietlow Miller’s lyrical text is brought to life with vibrant illustrations by Paola Escobar. Like Sometimes People March or You Matter, this book will inspire readers of all ages.
May 3rd • New Experiences • Feiwel & Friends
In this second picture book from leading actor, producer and director Channing Tatum, a unique little girl wants everything to be perfect for her upcoming sleepover, so her dad steps in to show her the importance of planning and patience.
Sparkella is excited for her first sleepover with her new friend, Tam.
A glittery, glimmering outfit sure to impress? Check!
Everything they need for the awesomest tea party ever? Check!
A collection of games to delight and inspire? Check!
She can’t wait for Tam to arrive in a few hours, but first she needs one more very important thing for their sleepover: A castle fit for two royal highnesses. But no matter what she tries, Sparkella just can’t seem to get the castle to work. The leopard stones for the wall are too hard to find! The cardboard breaks when she tries to climb to the second floor! The nails are boring and so NOT glitter-tastic.
Sparkella is frustrated, and worried her castle will never be finished in time. But with a little help from her dad, she soon learns the importance of patience, and figuring out creative new ways to do things when your original plans fall through.
Leading actor, producer and director Channing Tatum’s Sparkella picture book series is a charming ode to self-esteem and the love between a father and daughter.
May 3rd • People & Places • Dial Books
From NYT bestselling author Kelly Yang comes a gorgeously illustrated picture book about Asian American changemakers doing everything they dreamed of and inspiring all of us to reach for new heights!
From creating beautiful music like Yo-Yo Ma to flying to outer space like Franklin Chang-Díaz; from standing up to injustice like Fred Korematsu to becoming the first Asian American, Black and female vice president of the United States like Kamala Harris, this book illuminates the power of Asian Americans all over the country, in all sorts of fields.
Each spread is illustrated by a different renowned Asian American or Asian artist. Alongside the poetic main text, Yes We Will includes one-line biographies of the person or historical moment featured on the page, with extended biographies at the end. Readers of different ages and needs can use the book in different ways, from classroom discussions to bedtime readalouds and more.
Yes We Will answers the question, can we accomplish whatever we dream? With love, courage, determination, and lots of imagination, we can—and we will!
May 10th • Humour • HarperCollins
From beloved comedian, actress, and New York Times bestselling author, Tiffany Haddish, comes Layla, The Last Black Unicorn, a hilarious, original picture book tale about a lovable but awkward unicorn who learns why her uniqueness is her biggest strength.
It’s not easy to fit in when you stand out. When Layla arrives for her first day of school at Unicornia, the school for unicorns, she realizes that she’s not like the other kids there. They’re all pastel colors and know the rules to Horn Ball and none of them come from the Woods like Layla does. Try as she might to make friends, Layla’s just … different. But when her class gets lost during a field trip to the Fiddle Dee Deep Forest, it’s up to Layla to step up and save the day.
Layla, The Last Black Unicorn is a hilariously heartwarming picture book about self-acceptance, self-esteem, and standing up for standing out by New York Times bestselling author, Grammy Award-winning comedian, and actress Tiffany Haddish and Jerdine Nolen, author of the Coretta Scott King Honored book, Thunder Rose.
May 10th • LGBTQ+, Non-Fiction • Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
A fresh, charming picture book that shows there are lots of ways to be STRONG.
Rob dreams of becoming a champion strongman. He wants to flip huge tires, lug boulders, and haul trucks — and someday be the strongest man in the world! But he feels like he can’t fit in with his bright leggings, unicorn T-shirts, and rainbow-dyed hair. Will Rob find a way to step into his true self and be a champion?
With bold illustrations and an engaging, informative text, Strong introduces readers to Rob Kearney and his journey from an athletic kid trying to find his place to the world’s first openly gay professional strongman.
May 10th • Humour • Viking Books for Young Readers
Fang isn’t like the other vampires. Will he be able to make his dreams of a beach vacation come true?
The last thing Fang wants is another vacation in Transylvania. He’s toured Dracula’s castle and the coffin museum enough for an eternal lifetime. Why can’t he spend the summer swimming and surfing like his other friends? When his parents refuse, Fang decides to convince them that fun at the beach is possible, even for a family of vampires.
Laura Lavoie’s clever text and Micah Player’s devilishly fun illustrations are the perfect pairing for this hilarious picture book that captures the joy of having new adventures and staying true to yourself.
May 17th • Self-Esteem • HarperCollins
From Tony Award–winning actress Ali Stroker comes a semiautobiographical picture book debut about a spirited girl in a wheelchair who stages a show for her hometown with the help of her community.
Ali and the Sea Stars is a charming ode to the magic, high stakes, collaboration, and creativity of theater, inspired by Ali’s experience as the first performer on Broadway in a wheelchair and by the summer she was cast in her first musical, in a backyard production of Annie by the Jersey Shore.
Ali loves to dance, sing, and act. But she had never thought of putting on her own show until her neighbor asks, “Why wait?” Immediately energized, Ali gets to work.
There’s so much to do before showtime—choosing the right musical, auditions, rehearsal, costume and set design—but Ali can do anything with help from her family and friends. When a storm threatens to undo all their hard work, Ali has to use her imagination and adapt.
Back matter includes an inspiring letter from Ali to readers on how she developed confidence while onstage and sharing how theater encourages teamwork and creativity.
May 24th • Animals, Marine Life • HarperCollins
A humorous and meaningful picture book, starring a pearl named Lucky, about friendship, perseverance, and ocean pollution by debut author-illustrator Christy Mandin!
Lucky feels like the luckiest pearl in the ocean, until one day her home is crushed by trash.
In search of a new place to live, Lucky sets out on an adventure and discovers something even better than a shiny new shell: friendship.
For fans of Not Quite Narwhal and Tiny T. Rex and the Impossible Hug.
May 24th • Fantasy • Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
From the nationally beloved co-host of the #1 hit show Home Town comes the quintessential celebration of home.
Imagine a house’s early days as a home: A young family builds a picket fence and plants flowers in its yard, children climb the magnolia tree and play the piano in the living room, and there is music inside the house for many happy years. But what will happen when its windows grow dark, its paint starts to crumble, and its boards creak in the winter wind? The house dreams of a family who will love it again…and one day, a new story will emerge from within its walls.
In this modern classic, Erin Napier’s lyrical prose and Adam Trest’s warm and comforting paintings deeply evoke the soul of a house cherishing the seasons of life and discovering the joy of rebirth.
June 2022 Picture Books
June 7th • Non-Fiction • Christy Ottaviano Books
A rhythmically told and vibrantly illustrated picture book biography of Dolly Parton: an American icon beloved by all.
You’ve likely heard of the performer Dolly Parton. But do you know where this dazzling songwriter and musician draws her roots? As one of twelve children growing up in rural Tennessee, Dolly was determined to be seen and heard. From her front porch to her church choir, every stage was an opportunity to perform and share her many talents. While balancing farm chores with schoolwork, Dolly never lost sight of her dreams, composing her first song at age five and performing at the Grand Ole Opry at age thirteen.
With lilting language and vibrant artwork, this childhood story captures the unique gifts of Dolly Parton, while also honoring the measures of her success: resilience, confidence, family, and kindness.
June 14th • Emotions • Feiwel & Friends
A little girl navigates her cat’s bad day in this picture book about exploring sadness and how we find comfort.
Annie comes home from school to find her cat, Delilah, has had a terrible day and is quite sad. What do you do when your friend is sad? Cheer them up with all the things they love! Annie tries TV, warm milk, and even yoga! But at the end of the day, no distraction can really make our bad days simply disappear, as Annie knows all too well. You just have to face them head on, maybe have a good cry, and find comfort in those you love.
Heather Smith has written a gentle picture book about how we sometimes have to sit in the sadness of a bad day before we can move beyond it. Paired with Karen Obuhanych’s bold, emotive illustrations, readers will feel seen with this relatable story.
June 14th • People & Places • Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Caldecott Medalist Michaela Goade’s first self-authored picture book is a gorgeous celebration of the land she knows well and the powerful wisdom of elders.
On an island at the edge of a wide, wild sea, a girl and her grandmother gather gifts from the earth. Salmon from the stream, herring eggs from the ocean, and in the forest, a world of berries.
Salmonberry, Cloudberry, Blueberry, Nagoonberry.
Huckleberry, Snowberry, Strawberry, Crowberry.
Through the seasons, they sing to the land as the land sings to them. Brimming with joy and gratitude, in every step of their journey, they forge a deeper kinship with both the earth and the generations that came before, joining in the song that connects us all. Michaela Goade’s luminous rendering of water and forest, berries and jams glows with her love of the land and offers an invitation to readers to deepen their own relationship with the earth.
June 14th • Emotions • Viking Books for Young Readers
A classic in the making from the winner of The Great British Baking Show and star of Nadiya Bakes, about a young girl finding her strength in spite of a schoolyard bully.
I love to go to school. Well, most days I do.
There are some days when what I really want
is to stay at home with you.
Most days, this little girl loves to go to school and play with her friends. But sometimes the schoolyard can feel like a battleground where she has to dodge mean words from a bully. Luckily, she always has her steadfast tiger by her side—even if she’s the only one who can see it. With the reminder that strength comes from within, she digs deep to believe in herself, no matter what anyone else says.
From the team behind My Monster and Me, Today I’m Strong is a tender story about finding the courage to hold your head high, with a powerful reminder to always be kind.
June 28th • Humour • HarperCollins
A humorous picture book about a fire hydrant named Lou, who turns from neighborhood potty to unlikely hero. Perfect for fans of The Good Egg and The Bad Seed.
Meet Lou. Lou has an important job … as the neighborhood toilet. Useful as he may be, he gets the feeling that deep down inside, there might be more to him than that. He just doesn’t seem to know exactly what yet. When disaster strikes, will Lou find out what he’s made of and save the day?
From debut creator Breanna Carzoo comes a charming and funny story that reminds us to never let anyone—including yourself—hold you back from sharing your gifts with the world.
July 2022 Picture Books
July 5th • Animals, Humour • Disney-Hyperion
In Hey, Bruce!, Bruce the bear experiences … well, whatever readers want him to.
Rupert, Thistle, and Nibbs, the fun-loving mice in Bruce’s begrudgingly expansive family, guide readers on a quest for a fun reading experience, with Bruce the ever-reluctant star. As readers turn the page, flip the book, and follow the mice’s increasingly silly instructions, Bruce is sent flying and tumbling—all as he looks right up the reader’s nose! How will you interact with Bruce?
Bruce’s life is what YOU, the reader, make it in this special interactive addition to the award-winning Mother Bruce series.
July 5th • New Experiences • Sourcebooks Wonderland
It’s the yellow bus’s first day picking up kids for school! But the little yellow bus is more anxious than excited. He tries everything he can think of to get out of going to school that day. But with a little encouragement from his parents, the little yellow bus knows he can do anything he sets his mind to!
Poised to become an instant classic in children’s emotional learning, Little Yellow Bus embraces the power of imagination and the importance of believing in yourself! With heartwarming text and beautiful illustrations, this is an encouraging and inspiring story to help children overcome nervousness and look for the best in a new situation.
July 5th • Cooking • Disney Press
Where There’s a Whisk, There’s a Way takes readers on a magic trip down the rabbit hole to the place where sugar and spice make everything nice: Alice’s Wonderland Bakery.
Based on the new Disney Junior series, this gorgeously illustrated original picture book follows Alice, the 8-year-old great-granddaughter of the original Alice, after she inherits her great-grandmother’s enchanted bakery in the wacky, wonderful world of Wonderland.
With a sprinkle of creativity, a dash of curiosity, and a can-do attitude, Alice is ready to confront any kitchen challenge, from catering a mad tea party to baking an unbirthday cake for the Queen of Hearts’s daughter Princess Rosa.
July 12th • Self-Esteem • Viking Books for Young Readers
A debut picture book about loving your name, finding your voice, and standing up for yourself from the critically acclaimed illustrator of Bilal Cooks Daal and I Am Perfectly Designed.
Mirha is so excited for her first day of school! She can’t wait to learn, play, and make new friends. But when her classmates mispronounce her name, she goes home wondering if she shound find a new one. Maybe then she’d be able to find a monogrammed keychain at the gas station or order a hot chocolate at the cafe more easily.
Mama helps Mirha to see how special her name is, and she returns to school the next day determined to help her classmates say it correctly—even if it takes a hundred tries.
July 26th • Friendship • Feiwel & Friends
A heartwarming debut picture book about a girl whose search for friends after the loss of her grandmother inspires her to go undercover and join the local senior citizens group.
Marjorie wants a friend who loves the same things she does: baking shows, knitting, and gardening. Someone like Granny. So with a sprinkle of flour in her hair and a spritz of lavender perfume, Marjorie goes undercover to the local Senior Citizens Group. It all goes well until the cha-cha-cha starts and her cardigan camouflage goes sideways. By being true to herself, Marjorie learns that friends can be of any age if you look in the right places.
August 2022 Picture Books
August 2nd • Adaptation • Quirk Books
The iconic 1986 John Hughes film about living life to the fullest is now a joyful picture book for readers of all ages!
Life moves pretty fast–and Ferris Bueller is determined not to let it pass him by! On a beautiful spring day, Ferris fakes being sick and plays hooky from school. He convinces his friends, reluctant Cameron and carefree Sloane, to come along for the ride. The three friends hop in the car and race to the most exciting place they know: downtown Chicago.
They climb to the very top of the tallest skyscraper, eat lunch at a fancy French restaurant, cheer on a baseball game, and marvel over the paintings in the museum. But stickler teacher Mr. Rooney, determined to catch Ferris skipping school, is on their trail. Will the kids get away with it and have the best day off ever? And will anxious Cameron ever learn to live in the moment?
This joyful and nostalgic story about friendship, adventure, and seizing the day will appeal to children and fans of the movie alike.
August 2nd • Non-Fiction • Farrar, Straus & Giroux
A picture book biography about a powerful Indian female singer who advocated for justice, feminism, and peace through song.
Before M.S. Subbulakshmi was a famous carnatic singer and the first Indian woman to perform at the United Nations, she was a young girl with a prodigious voice.
But Subbulakshmi was not free to sing everywhere. In 1930s India, girls were not allowed to perform for the public. So Subbulaskhmi fought to sing at small festivals. Eventually, she broke tradition to record her first album. At Gandhi’s request, Subbulakshmi sang for the nation during the partition of India and Pakistan. Her fame stretched across borders, and soon she was no longer just a young prodigy. She was a woman who changed the world.
In this timely historical picture book biography, debut author Suma Subramaniam and illustrator Shreya Gupta illuminate a legendary singer’s indomitable spirit and revolutionary voice.
August 2nd • Science Fiction • Running Press Kids
No synopsis yet.
August 30th • Biography • HarperCollins
A powerful picture book biography of Stacey Abrams, politician, voters’ rights activist, and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, that shows how Abrams’s fight for voters’ rights was inspired by luminaries before her, such as Sojourner Truth and Fannie Lou Hamer. Brilliant artwork from Laura Freeman, Coretta Scott King Honoree for Hidden Figures, brings Stacey’s journey to life. Perfect for fans of Kamala Harris: Rooted In Justice by Nikki Grimes and I Dissent by Debbie Levy.
Read about Stacey Abrams, politician and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, in this poetic picture book that follows Abrams’s fight for voters’ rights, narrated by Sojourner Truth, Ida B. Wells-Barnett, Septima Poinsette Clark, and Fannie Lou Hamer.
“Sometimes she would light the way. Sometimes her way would be lit by others…”
Stacey Abrams was always destined for big things because she always imagined more. Now she protects the least powerful, works toward making voting fair and easy, and demands better for Georgia and every other state in this nation. Stacey Abrams’s determination, perseverance, and courage will inspire younger generations to make meaningful change in the world.
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