1. Edgar’s Second Word
By Audrey Vernick, illustrated by Priscilla Burris
Hazel is anxiously awaiting the arrival of her baby brother so they can do all sorts of fun things together. But to her disappointment, all he does is sit around—even worse, his first word is a feisty, “NO!” An ideal choice for any soon-to-be big sibling, we love this book because it’s centered around books, words and reading. $13. Ages: 4–8.
2. You Are Not Small
By Anna Kang, illustrated by Christopher Weyant
Simple text and vibrant illustrations tell the story of two fuzzy creatures endlessly debating who is small and who is BIG! With no resolve in sight, some surprise guests show up to settle the score once and for all. This book is adorable and an excellent way to introduce the relative concept that someone (like your reading buddy) can be both big and small at the same time. $10. Ages: 2–6.
3. Pete the Cat and the New Guy
By Kimberly and James Dean
When Gus the Platypus moves into town, Pete the Cat can’t wait to befriend the new guy. Soon Pete realizes Gus is different and the two don’t have much in common, but that’s what makes him so cool. Acceptance, friendship and navigating tricky social waters at the sensitive grade school level all shine through in this charming tale. $11. Ages: 4–8.
4. Tickle
By Leslie Patricelli
The newest magical Patricelli board book profiles a mysterious tickle monster who goes after tiny feet, pudgy tummies and little underarms. A super-sweet book to enjoy with your baby or toddler, it’s tailor-made to bring out the tickle monster in you, too. $6. Ages: 1–3.
5. The Pigeon Needs a Bath
By Mo Willems
If you’ve ever had to beg, plead and drag your stinky kiddo to the tub, you’ll love the newest addition to Pigeon’s picture book adventures as much as we do. After all, it’s only been a month since Pigeon’s bathed—and it’s going to take some silly convincing to get him all soaped up! $11. Ages: 3–5.
6. Fly Guy #14: Fly Guy’s Amazing Tricks
By Tedd Arnold
We are big fans of this early reader series and in their latest adventure, Buzz teaches Fly Guy some silly and gross tricks sure to be a hit with your little reader. The tricks all pay off when a bully messes with Buzz, and Fly Guy comes to the rescue with his new “skillz.” Bonus points for a story that teaches kids to stick up for their friends! $6. Ages: 4–8.
7. Uni the Unicorn
By Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Brigette Barrager
From the author of much-loved Spoon and Little Pea, Uni tells the sweet story of a unicorn with sparkly eyes who wishes little girls were real. This is a magical and beautifully illustrated read that will make you into a believer. $12. Ages: 4–8.
