10 Great Picture Books to Give in 2016

Ada Twist, Scientist, by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts
Bringing diversity, ingenuity, and hilarity to a picture book—in equal measure, no less—is no easy task, but Beaty and Roberts have teamed up again to make it possible. Tenacious Ada Twist is a self-identified scientist, with no fear of failure. So when she has a problem, she’s on her way to fixing it before you can say “failed experiment.” Read this to your favorite little chemist tonight!

Bedtime for Batman, by Michael Dahl and Ethen Beavers
When darkness falls, the real work begins. After changing into his costume and cleaning up the city, Batman can climb into bed. But even from the shadows, he is watching, and waiting—a hero’s job is never done. Parallel narratives show a boy preparing for bedtime, and the Dark Knight taking care of business—the result is an eye-popping, highly engaging tale for the little superhero at your house!

Milk Goes to School, by Terry Border
Border, who tickled readers with Peanut Butter & Cupcake and Happy Birthday, Cupcake!, has returned with another surefire read-aloud hit. Milk has a bedazzled backpack and adoring, supportive parents, but she’s still pretty nervous about the first day of school. And it gets even worse when Waffle—a would-be pal—accuses her of being spoiled. Whether you giggle or groan at the near-constant puns, readers of all ages will appreciate the attention to detail and sweet resolution in this charming story.

The Thank You Book, by Mo Willems
Introverted Gerald is a worrier, while affable Piggie is carefree. Gerald and Piggie are best friends, but their approach to life couldn’t be more different. In this charming conclusion to Willems’ bestselling Elephant & Piggie series, Piggie is thanking EVERYONE, but Gerald is afraid that his brash pal is going to forget someone very important along the way.

What Do You Do With a Problem?, by Kobi Yamad
If you’ve every had a problem and chosen to ignore it, chances are it hasn’t gone away. Instead, it’s gotten bigger—and likely more persistent. This follow-up to What Do You Do With an Idea? shows us, quite simply, the life cycle of a problem. Readers of all ages are reminded that a challenge makes us more courageous, and when we are encouraged to confront our predicament head-on, we often find that it’s less daunting than we originally perceived it to be.

Pete the Cat Storybook Collection: 7 Groovy Stories!, by James Dean
Fans of James Dean’s groovy feline Pete the Cat will love this collection of seven of his most beloved tales—including Cavecat Pete, Pete’s Big Lunch, and Too Cool for School! With his friendly demeanor and laid-back attitude, Pete is one cool character, and kids will love reading about his adventures.

Good Morning Yoga: A Pose-by-Pose Wake Up Story, by Mariam Gates
Re-energize your AM routine with a one-of-a-kind morning story that will help you and your little reader lead a more intentional day. Filled with breathing exercises, welcome stretches, and a mindful narrative that goes down easier than a bowl of oatmeal, Good Morning Yoga creates the perfect opportunity to greet the day—and honor its journey—with those we love best.

If You Give a Mouse a Brownie, by Laura Numeroff
Our favorite mouse is back, but we’ll warn you—only read this hilarious tale on nights dessert has been served. Brownies obviously lead to ice cream, and one helping—like one reading—is never enough! You’ll definitely want to add this sweet indulgence to your beginning reader’s collection!

River Rose and the Magical Lullaby, by Kelly Clarkson
New mom and beloved singer/songwriter Kelly Clarkson has brought us a tender, soothing story—starring her very own daughter, River Rose. It’s the night before the big trip to the zoo, and River Rose cannot fall asleep—nothing’s working! Will a special lullaby from Mommy help? You’ll enjoy the bonus story and bonus CD for many too-excited-to-sleep nights to come.

Our Great Big Backyard, by Laura Bush and Jenna Bush Hager
Released in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service, Our Great Big Backyard showcases the wild natural beauty of our fascinating country. It’s an expansive story that starts with Jane, who dreams of a screen-filled summer—and gets a road-trip with the family instead. From jutting rocks to gator-filled swamps, Jane gets a taste of every sort of outdoors, and somewhere along the way—she starts to enjoy herself. Quench your wanderlust with this early summer treat!