Reading to our kids is one of our favorite nightly rituals. We’ve rounded up picture books we love that’ll help instill a love of reading and understanding in your preschoolers.
Lovable Lucy Splish Splash Barkyard Bash
By Norma E. Roth and Shayna Rose Penn
Illustrated by Adua Hernandez
When Lovable Lucy’s family holds a barkyard bash, she has to figure out how to include each of her furry friends in the activities. She meets a character who raises deaf awareness, teaching young readers about inclusivity. Lucy also teaches your child about friendship, empathy and acceptance.
Little Lovable Lucy, You’re So Big!
By Norma E. Roth and Shayna Rose Penn
Illustrated by Adua Hernandez
Lucy is growing bigger and fluffier and is ready to take on the world, but she must learn important skills before she can explore her neighborhood. She has to be brave and overcome fears and frustrations. She also learns about self-growth, determination, encouragement, confidence and resilience.
Little Lovable Lucy’s Big Day
By Norma E. Roth and Shayna Rose Penn
Illustrated by Adua Hernandez
Adorable pup Lucy is meeting her forever family for the first time. This picture book addresses feelings, kindness and family life in a heartwarming adventure about love and family bonds.
3 Falafels in My Pita: A Counting Book of Israel
By Maya Friedman
Illustrated by Steve Mack
Your little learner will count from 1 to 10 using Israeli food items cutely designed in this board book.
These ABCs Belong to Me!
By Alicia McKenzie
Illustrated by Sarah DeMonteverde
Monteverde draws on her 18 years of parenting five children, offering takes on 26 all-too-familiar critical and belittling words spanning the alphabet, from “ambitious” and “messy” to “timid” and “zany” so that kids can form their own identity and take pride in the qualities that make them stand out.
Addie Ant Goes On An Adventure
By Maren Morris and Karina Argow
Illustrated by Kelly Anne Dalton
Releasing on April 9, this book by country singer-songwriter Maren Morris and her longtime best friend Karina Argow follows Addie Ant as she travels from one garden bed to another on her first solo adventure, getting lost along the way and finding help from her trusted garden pals to find her way home. The lessons she learns, including how to be brave and independent in a new setting, and when to ask for help, are timeless themes for young readers.
All About Nature
By Huda Harajli
Illustrated by Jane Sander
Discover the world outside through an intro to nature perfect for kids ages 3 to 5. This picture book of fun facts teaches preschool and kindergarten kids all about land, water, air, and critters big and small.
All of Those Babies
By Mylisa Larsen
Illustrated by Stephanie Laberis
The bouncy rhymes are perfect for reading along and incorporating fun new words and species’ baby names into your vocabulary: echidnas have puggles, porcupines have porcupettes and wombats have joeys. There’s a lesson for kids on how everyone is born and grows up.
Andy: A Dog’s Tale
By John Kelly
Andy—the tiniest pup in his litter—proves that true strength comes in all sizes as he tries to become a service dog. The book is based on the 7-minute animated short film, “Andy: A Dog’s Tale.” Profits from every book sale will help Canine Companions continue to provide service dogs, free of charge, to people who need them. The book will be released on October 15.
“Ava Takes a Walk!”
By Henry Appiah
Illustrated by Tullip Studio
This book, which is a dedication to Henry’s daughter, takes kids on a journey with Ava and her father, as they embark on a whimsical stroll through their community. As Ava explores her surroundings, young readers will discover familiar sights and treasures hidden in plain sight.
Backyard Bugs: A Shine-a-Light Book
By Carron Brown and Wesley Robins
Your child will meet a humble earthworm wriggling in the soil, a spider spinning its strong, sticky web, and an enchanting moth taking flight in the moonlight. It’s a non-fiction book that explores bug habitats, bodies, diets and behaviors while encouraging your kids to get outside into their own yard to explore.
Banana Menorah
By Lee Wind
Illustrated by Karl West
One time when author Lee Wind was on vacation with his family during Hanukkah, he forgot to pack a menorah. The improvisation they needed led him to write about Skylar and her family, who have to be creative during the Festival of Lights.
Beach Santa
By M.B. Paradise
Illustrated by Jay Asch and Erin McGrane
A former New Jersey Family Mom Crush, Ms. Paradise wrote a story about a man her kids saw when looking for shells down the Jersey Shore. A slim older gentleman with a white beard was fishing next to the family, and reached into his cargo vest to pull out three beautiful conch shells. One of her daughters said, “That guy is like a beach Santa.”
Bella and Bird Explore Anger
By Dr. Deana Plaskon, PhD, LMHC
Illustrated by Lea Marie Ravotti
The first in the new Bella and Bird the Emotion Explorers series — by educator and licensed clinical therapist (and Jersey Shore resident) Dr. Deana Plaskon — is a therapeutic picture book designed for children (and the adults who care for them). Through the calming presence of Bella, a real-life therapy horse, and the clever commentary of Bird, her barn swallow sidekick, this new resource invites children into a story where big feelings are met with curiosity, not shame.
Be WHOO You Are
By Kathleen Welton
Illustrated by Nuno Alexandre Vieira
Ollie the Owl wonders who he’s meant to be while watching bees, bunnies and beavers at work, but it isn’t until he helps his friend Betty the Bunny find her way home, with the guidance of a glowing firefly, that he realizes his true gifts: kindness, listening, and helping others.
Boy Dad
By Sean Williams and Jay Davis
Your son will love reading this book with his father, learning all about the loving men who raise, nurture, and uplift their boys.
Crocodile Christmas Tree
By Nichole Conran
Illustrated by Maddy Moore
The author had a dream that a crocodile turned into a Christmas tree, and that inspired her to write about Cris, a crocodile who panics when he forgets his mom’s Christmas gift and finds the tree fell down. He transforms himself into a sparkling Christmas tree with bulbs, bells, lights, and a star topper. When his family can’t find him, Cris reveals his clever disguise, bringing laughter and joy.
Bunnies, Cookies and a Robot!
By Ralph Greco Jr.
Illustrated by Joseph Swarctz
The Echo City Capers children’s book series is written and illustrated by Clifton, NJ, natives. This book includes three classic Echo City Jr. stories in a new hardcover, activity-filled special edition. The stories emphasize cooperation, how putting one’s smarts to a problem can often prompt a solution, and how each of us is unique and should be celebrated.
The Cray Crays: The Crayon That Cried
By Adama Wiggan
The picture book teaches kids about self-worth, diversity and collaboration through the story of a crayon who often feels overlooked.
A Crowded Farmhouse Folktale
By Karen Rostoker-Gruber
Illustrated by Kristina Swarner
Farmer Earl has had enough—his home is too crowded! So, he visits the wise woman in town for help. She tells him to bring all his ducks in the house. Then all his horses. And all his goats, too! How will there be more room with all these animals? This updated folktale uses humor to explore what it takes to gain a new perspective and be grateful for what you have.
Dear Muslim Child
By Rahma Rodaah
Illustrated by Aya Ghanameh
The author of “Dear Black Child” will release “Dear Muslim Child” on February 6, a month before the start of Ramadan on March 10. The picture book is a love letter to Muslim children that celebrates the beauty and tradition of their religion and is meant to empower Muslim children to embrace and be proud of their faith. Author Rahma Rodaah has four children and is passionate about wanting them and others to see themselves in books. Aya Ghanameh is a Palestinian artist, writer and designer from Amman, Jordan.
Don’t Invite a Bear Inside for Hanukkah
By Karen Rostoker-Gruber
Illustrated by Carles Arbat
While he might try to be helpful with decorating and putting candles in the menorah, a bear will start to cause a mess soon enough, especially when latkes, gelt and other holiday food is served. Karen, who has ties to Brooklyn, Pompton Lakes and Branchburg, publishes her 17th book about how you can celebrate the holidays together, no matter your differences. You can preorder the book now before its November 5 release.
Find Momo Everywhere
By Andrew Knapp
Grief will be explained to the youngest readers through the loss of a pet. The story follows Andrew playing hide-and-seek all over the world with his best friend, to connecting with nature, to Momo’s final journey and Andrew holding his paw.
Find the Kind: The Biggest Day in Kindness History
By Samantha Berger
Illustrated by Marina Verola
Published by Highlights for Children, this story is quite an adventure as the Gnumans get ready to move. It’s a read-aloud story mixed with classic search-and-find, with a focus on kindness, friendship and community.
Flight to the Light
By Danny Barron
Illustrated by Nathan Barron
“Flight to the Light” follows the journey of a small June bug on a summer night, drawn to a bright streetlight. Along the way, the June bug meets friends like a buzzing cicada and faces challenges, including a hungry bat. This charming rhyming story not only introduces children to nature but also acts as a spiritual allegory, reminding readers of how we are all drawn to the light of Jesus. This illustrated Christian picture book is the first in the “What Could it Be?” series, designed to share God’s love through the wonders of nature.
Freeda the Frog is On the Move
By Nadine Haruni
Illustrated by Tina Modugno
Freeda and her new larger family need to move to a bigger lily pad – giving kids who may be worried about moving to a new home tips on how to handle a major life change or transition to a new school. This is part of the Freeda the Frog book series, which tackles topics like divorce, marriage and homosexuality.
Ginger Sea ‘Neath the Celtic Moon
By Bob Wright
Illustrated by Keri Sheheen
Nan, a seafarer, teaches her grandchild Wred about boat-building and songwriting on the remote Irish isle of Oilean Amhran, or Island of the Songs.
Glow
By Brynn Stanley
Illustrated by Olga Levitskiy
New Jersey singer-songwriter Brynn Stanley makes her children’s book debut with “Glow,” the story of a little lightning bug who faces sadness but learns to shine bright again through positive self-talk, laughter, and lots of love.
Good Night Jersey Shore
By Adam Gamble and Mark Jasper
Illustrated by Brenna Hansen
Young beachgoers will tour Cape May, Asbury Park, Wildwood, Seaside Heights including its famous rides and carousel, Point Pleasant and Jenkinson’s Aquarium, boardwalks, beaches, surfing, local foods, wildlife, lighthouses, and more.
The Great Shape Debate
By Susanne Munn
Illustrated by Amy Towers
These Camden County moms (Susanne is from Cherry Hill and Amy is from Haddonfield) wrote a book that is for anyone who has ever struggled with being, feeling or looking different. One by one, the shapes give their opinion on which shape they’d rather be and why until they all realize: It’s OK to be you. The book comes out on June 3.
Hair Twins
By Raakhee Mirchandani
Illustrated by Holly Hatam
Written by an NJ mom, this is a charming story about the special hair bond between a Sikh father and his daughter as they proudly share their family traditions. Every morning, Papa combs through his daughter’s waves like he does his own. Some days he braids her hair in two twists down the side of her face, and other days he weaves it into one long braid hanging down her back, just like a unicorn tail. But her favorite style is when he combs her hair in a tight bun on the top of her head, just like the joora he wears every day under his turban.
The Highlights Big Book of Activities For Little Kids
Highlights for Children
Kids ages 3 to 6 and their parents can do more than 200 activities together.
Hop Around
By Shvona Chung
Illustrated by Courtney Huddleston
A group of animal friends take your young reader around the world to learn about new customs, culture, food and art as they go on a travel adventure.
In the Night
By Harriet Stone
Illustrated by David Partington
This board book about animal magic takes a nighttime journey so your kid can learn about nocturnal creatures as they turn each page.
Is This Love?
By Cedella Marley
Illustrated by Alea Marley
Are you singing the title? You should be because Bob Marley’s eldest child Cedella Marley wrote a book based on his famous song. The story is about an older child’s love for a younger sibling. From the moment she sees her baby sister, her big sister knows just what she’s going to do: love her and treat her right, every day and every night.
Jesus Loves You Baby Bear
By the Rev. Dr. Sue Perry
Kids will learn the message of God’s unconditional love through the teachings of Jesus, shared by the characters of Papa Bear and Baby Bear. The story talks about healing the blind, enabling the crippled to walk and feeding the hungry.
Journey to the Stars: Kalpana Chawla, Astronaut
By Laurie Wallmark and Raakhee Mirchandani
Illustrated by Maitreyi Ghosh
Kalpana Chawla set her sights on flight from an early age. She was told “no” many times in life, but after a long journey of dedication, perseverance and patience, she finally made it to space. The book is based on the true story of the first female Indian American astronaut.
Me Llamo Checkers
By Ana Nennig
Illustrated by Shahab Shamshirsaz
The bilingual children’s book tells the story of a lonely cat who finds love, family, and belonging through adoption.
Live Your Dream: The Story of a Jewish Basketball All-Star
By Tamir Goodman
Illustrated by Jim Madsen
Tamir Goodman, known internationally as “The Jewish Jordan” (coined by Sports Illustrated in 1999) is a former pro basketball star, coach, entrepreneur, camp leader and motivational speaker. In this children’s book, he teaches kids about how to overcome obstacles in a story about his life as a dyslexic Jewish basketball star.
Lucas and Emily’s Food Bank Adventure
By Dave Grunenwald
Illustrated by Bonnie Lemaire
The sixth book in the Lucas and Emily’s Adventures series, based on the Grandparent Merit Badges, focuses on grandkids and grandparents bonding through things like cooking, gardening and enjoying animals – and in this case, volunteering.
Maya Loves the Sun
By Disha Mathur
Illustrated by Felishia Henditirto
Maya loves the sun and can’t wait to celebrate her birthday at the park, but after she hears comments about her skin color, she wants to hide from the sun. The story explores self-acceptance and loving the skin you’re in. The book includes discussion questions, plus sun safety tips.
Mia’s Mouses
By Joseph L. Licari
Illustrated by Victor Nieto
Mia is a young girl who loves to dance and learn. One day she makes friends with three little mice in her yard and spends all day with them. But Mia calls her friends mouses, even though her friends and family explain to her that “mice” is the correct word. Combining her curiosity with some help from her teacher, Mia learns the rules for making nouns plural. The story combines rhyming storytelling with educational value, addressing one of the common challenges children face in learning English grammar.
Miausi: The Calico Cat
Written and Illustrated by Karen Castellanos Vasquez
Miausi is a small, beautiful, adventurous Calico cat determined to achieve her dream of finding a family. Join Miausi in this unique adventure, full of tasty food and common places that are not so common for cats.
The Missing Red Envelopes
By Yobe Qiu World
As the Lunar New Year approaches, sisters Lorie and Weina from NYC eagerly anticipate the festive celebrations – from watching the vibrant parade to indulging in delicious Asian cuisine and cherishing precious family moments. The highlight of the occasion is receiving lucky red envelopes filled with surprises from their relatives. However, excitement turns to mystery when Weina realized she lost all of her red envelopes! What will they do?
My Thoughts Have Wings
By Maggie Smith
Illustrated by Leanne Hatch
Smith is the bestselling author of the viral poem “Good Bones,” known for going viral after catastrophic events in the past decade. In her debut children’s book, she creates a picture book for calming active minds at bedtime. The book, set to be released on February 13, has reassuring strategies for self-soothing that can help adults, too.
National Parks of the United States: A Childen’s Encyclopedia Box Set
Designed for kids ages 5 to 10, the series highlights national parks across the West Coast, East Coast, Hawaii, Alaska and the Midlands. Each book provides information easy for kids to understand about wildlife, plant life, activities and park histories.
The Night Before Preschool
By Natasha Wing
Illustrated by Amy Wummer
Natasha has a series of books titled “The Night Before,” ranging from school days to holidays to doctors’ visits and more. They are available in paperback or hard cover, and some are translated into Spanish. In “The Night Before Preschool,” a little boy is so nervous he can’t fall asleep. The friends he makes the next day at school give him a reason not to sleep the next night, either: he’s too excited about going back. The story will help calm the nerves and make kids excited about going to school.
Our Lunar New Year
By Yobe Qiu World
Xiao Mao, Hang, Kwan, Charu and Malai celebrate Lunar New Year in their own special way. You’ll learn how each one of the Chinese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese and Indian children, and their families, honors Lunar New Year, from dragon dances in China to firecrackers in India.
Over in the Forest: A woodland baby animal counting book
By Marianne Berkes
Illustrated by Jill Dubin
Kids will count baby animals as they learn about forests and the animals in the forest habitat in this book for young explorers.
Roxie Loves Adventure
By Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen
Illustrated by Leeza Hernandez
Your kids will love this bougie pup who encourages them to get out of their comfort zone. Roxie the pug lives a life of luxury and never has to lift a paw. But one night, she has to GO and her humans are asleep – and the door locks behind her when she leaves! Will Roxie be stuck outside forever without her toys, treats and tummy rubs? She goes on an adventure trying to find her way back indoors to her normal life.
Ruby Finkelman Finds the Real Magic
By Dr. Michael King
Illustrated by Shahar Kober
Ruby Finkelman dislikes brushing her teeth, which leads other children in her hometown of Kvellville to stop making their beds, cleaning their rooms, and showing respect. Soon, even adults start to act out, creating a chaotic mess. This prompts Ruby to realize that her actions set off the disorder, and her positive actions inspire other children to help restore order. Written by Dr. Mike, a pediatric dentist and comedian, he also offers tips to help kids brush their teeth properly.
Sara’s New Country and New Friend / El Nuevo País y La Nueva Amiga de Sara
By Daniela Palacios
Illustrated by Patricia Patalinjug
Sara just moved to the United States from Ecuador. On her first day of school, she meets Riley, a Mexican-American girl. Throughout the school day, Sara and Riley teach each other their native languages and share about their cultures. The book includes an exclusive coloring page for you reader. Daniela Palacios of Newark is the founder of Para KIDS!, a bilingual children’s book company dedicated to empowering students to become and remain bilingual through engaging Spanish and English books.
Sea Smiles
By Bonnie Kelso
When an otherwise harmless apple becomes the instrument for losing a tooth, a young girl is ready to retire her smile. That is, until she discovers teeth can give us all a lot to smile about. This is a fun story for kids who’ve lost a tooth, are about to, or just love learning about animals with weird teeth in the sea.
So-Hee and Lowy
By Anna Kang
Illustrated by Christopher Weyant
The book addresses the sense of feeling “different” and the joys of having a pet, and one that is sensitive to allergies: and a snake. 2025 is the Year of the Snake, and May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. Husband-and-wife team, award-winning Korean American author Anna Kang and New Yorker and Boston Globe cartoonist Christopher Weyant, will release the book on April 22, 2025.
Sometimes I Get …
By Ralph Greco Jr.
Illustrated by Joseph Swarctz
“Sometimes I Get …” is a book about emotions. Rose is trying to understand why she gets mad, stuck, happy, scared, sad, shy and loved. The Echo City Capers children’s book series is written and illustrated by Clifton, NJ, natives.
Sprinkles Did It!
By Ralph Greco Jr.
Illustrated by Joseph Swarctz
Eugene explores the fun – and the power – of imagination through adventures with his new friend, Sprinkles. But there’s a difference between what’s real and what’s pretend, as Eugene soon discovers. The Echo City Capers children’s book series is written and illustrated by Clifton, NJ, natives.
Stella And The Mystery of the Missing Tooth
By Clothilde Ewing
Illustrated by Lynn Gaines
Stella, her bestie Roger, and her second-best friend Owen are excited to go see Sue the T-rex at the museum, but when Owen has to leave early because he lost a tooth, Stella becomes determined to find it for him. How did he manage to lose a tooth? Was it stolen? Could the tooth fairy be responsible? Nothing will keep Stella from her investigation, even if she and Roger fear their own teeth could be stolen too. Bookshop.org is offering a 15% discount from February 1-29 for Black History Month using code “BHM24” at checkout.
Suit Up For Launch With Shay!
By Sharon Caples McDougle
Illustrated by Cristielle Pimenta
Why do astronauts wear the suit? Why is it orange? What is it made of? How do you put it on? How do you go to the bathroom in it? Come along with Shay to get answers to these questions and more as she learns all about the orange spacesuit astronauts wear when they launch into space. The author, Sharon McDougle, is a former space shuttle escape equipment crew chief and suit tech.
Summer Camp Critter Jitters
By Jory John
Illustrated by Liz Climo
A group of forest friends are nervous about going to camp, but this book will reassure your kids that camp is super fun.
Summer Vacation, Here I Come
By D.J. Steinberg
Illustrated by John Joven
Stickers are included in this interactive story that kids your kid ready for summertime fun.
Sydney’s Big Speech
By Malcolm Newsome
Illustrated by Jade Orlando
In this picture book that’s about perseverance, overcoming challenges, and working hard to achieve your goals, Sydney learns to conquer her fear of public speaking at school, in this affectionate father-daughter story referencing inspiring role models who dealt with similar issues. Sydney’s journey includes practice; encouragement from her loving dad; and a dose of inspiration from such luminaries as Shirley Chisholm, Carol Moseley Braun, Condoleezza Rice and Kamala Harris. Bookshop.org is offering a 15% discount from February 1-29 for Black History Month using code “BHM24” at checkout.
This Baby. That Baby.
By Cari Best
Illustrated by Rashin Kheiriyeh
This darling picture book that comes out on February 27 is about two baby friends who live across from each other in high-rise apartment buildings. This baby meows like his cat and that baby barks like her dog. This baby listens to a story and that baby sings a song. Soon both babies are hungry and a little cranky — how will this mama and that papa make them feel better? A playdate in the park, of course!
Turkey in Disguise!
By Adam Wallace
Illustrated by Mike Moran
Your kid will follow Turkey as she chooses what to wear to the November Ball. A tear-out turkey template is included for them to design their own disguise in this interactive picture book.
Welcome to Dino Land: An Adventurous and Whimsical Bedtime Story
By Juliana Fratia
Young readers get to meet 24 of the most well-known dinosaurs, such as the Brachiosaurus and the Stegosaurus, while combining scientific facts with a rhythmic style.
What Do Brothas Do All Day?
By Ajuan Mance
Inspired by Richard Scarry’s “What Do People Do All Day?,” these portraits of Black men engaged in everyday life celebrate the deep roots and rich cultures of African American communities.
Where’s Bearry?
By Joe Gatto
Illustrated by Luke Flowers
After a long day of play, Remo has brushed his teeth, put his pajamas on, and gotten into bed, ready to sleep. Nothing can separate him from the sweet dreams he’s about to have. Remo needs his stuffed teddy bear to sleep but his best friend is missing. The book is written by comedian, actor, producer and former star of Impractical Jokers TV show.
Where’s the Party?
By Scott Casperson
Illustrated by Tincho Schmidt
When a seemingly abandoned cupcake sets out to find the other pastries, it rediscovers the joy within its community and the comfort of being alone. The story will reach any kid who has a fear of being left out.
Whispers From Mother Earth: Celebrate the Skin You’re In
By Maryam Khalifah
Kids will see themselves as unique and beautiful, no matter what shape or color they are. The message is one of self-love and diversity so kids can discover who they are.
Whombus, the Prince of Whales: The Long Journey
By Edward Jeffries
Readers will follow the story of a young humpback whale who, along with his mother, undertakes his first annual migration. It combines the account of their journey including boats, a hurricane and other whales – along with scientific whale facts to encourage learning.
Winning & Grinning
Written and Illustrated by Bridget and Ryan Sirgiovanni
In Collaboration with Former New York Knick Walt “Clyde” Frazier
Creative Direction and Illustrations by Elliot Gerard
The sports-themed book uses colorful pages and rhymes to teach kids ages 3-8 the history of Walt “Clyde” Frazier, who is a former New York Knick, fashion idol and NYC icon.
Words
By Katherine Davis-Gibbon
Illustrated by Anne Berry
This book teaches kids that words are a lot like people, and can be warm and inviting, or pushy and odd. However, the ones that make a bad first impression can turn things around. This is a way to introduce kids to the power of words.
Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram!
Read More:
How to Raise Your Child to Be a Good Reader
Experts Share Their Top Tips For Inspiring Reluctant Readers
Books to Help a Reluctant Reader
New Jersey’s Best Indie Bookstores
Tips For Choosing the Right Preschool Camp For Your Little One
