June’s Best New Picture Books

The Someone New, by Jill Twiss and EG Keller
Jitterbug the chipmunk likes her quiet life in the woods, and isn’t too keen on big transitions. So when Pudding the snail shows up one day, a confrontation between the two creatures ensues, and Jitterbug has to decide whether kindness or fear will win the day. We’re certain this tender, relevant story, from the duo that brought us A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo, will quickly become a favorite.

Unicorn Day, by Diana Murray and Luke Flowers
Hooray for Unicorn Day! It’s the unicorn’s favorite celebration, and the most important (not to mention only) rule is to have fun! Joyfulness and magic abound until the moment when somebody new shows up—and we understand that this tale is about more than glitter and butterflies—it’s about friendship too!

Dragon Post, by Emma Yarlett
When Young Alexander finds an honest-to-goodness dragon in his cellar, he solicits professional advice immediately—and the responses to his letters fill every page of this clever epistolary tale. From the fire chief to the butcher, everybody weighs in with helpful advice, intriguing questions, and even some questionable commentary. But Young Alexander’s closest pal offers the wisest counsel of all—read this sweet story to find out!

Bedtime for Baby Shark: Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo, illustrated by John John Bajet
Have your youngest readers been swallowed up by the Baby Shark wave? If so, they will love helping Baby Shark sing and dance his way to bed tonight—and meeting everybody else in the shark family too!

How to Read a Book, by Kwame Alexander
Filled with melodic lines of poetry and lush illustrations, this is a book that will make you fall in love with reading all over again—and it’s not to be missed. The journey from start to finish is an exciting one, and many notable poets and writers are mentioned along the way—begin your literary adventure tonight!

Uni the Unicorn and the Dream Come True, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Brigette Barrager
If Uni the Unicorn already has celebrity status in your household, you’ll be thrilled to learn that her story isn’t over yet! Uni and all her friends are utterly dependent on life-giving sunlight and rainbows, so when persistent rainfall threatens their magical realm, they have to think fast. Uni’s always believed in little girls, and now she will have to put that faith into action—can she work together with the girl of her dreams to save her land? Check out this exciting sequel tonight!

That’s Not My Mermaid, by Fiona Watt
Better keep it on a low shelf, for the littlest readers in your life will reach for this touchy-feely tale again and again! Filled with fun textures, mirrors, and gentle prose, this sturdy board book will bring all the magic of the sea (minus the sand!) to your next storytime!

Pete the Kitty’s First Day of Preschool, by James Dean
Pete the Kitty can’t wait to start preschool, but, understandably, he’s a little bit nervous too. That’s why it’s a big relief when Pete realizes how groovy his teacher, school, and snacktime are! When your young reader is getting ready for their big day—reach for this comforting tale!

Beyonce: Shine Your Light, by Sarah Warren and Geneva Bowers
It’s hard to believe that before all the glitz, glam, and super-stardom, Beyonce was once a reserved little girl. People recognized the spark hidden by her shy exterior early on, and encouraged her to use her powerful voice to make the world a better place. Now Beyonce’s inspired millions around the world, and you’ll definitely want to share her incredible story at your next storytime.