September’s Best Picture Books

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!

My Little Pony: The Dragons on Dazzle Island, by Mary Jane Begin
When the Great Dragon Migration brings hordes of the beasts to Dazzle Island, Rarity’s order of rare island gemstones is seriously threatened! With the help of her friends, Fluttershy and Spike, will Rarity be able to solve her monster-size problem? This is a story of cooperation—and the power of hugs—that you definitely won’t want to miss!

Curious George: 75th Anniversary Edition, by H.A. Rey
Go back to where it all started for this lovable, mischievous monkey—you’ll love reliving all his misadventures again and again with your little readers. Plus, this anniversary edition includes a bonus downloadable audio recording from John Krasinski!

This is Me: A Story of Who We Are and Who We Came From, by Jamie Lee Curtis
Curtis’ latest tale tackles the timely subject of immigration. When a teacher asks her students what they would pack if they were to leave their home for a new country—and a new life—their suitcases quickly become their “history books,” and they eagerly discuss their excitement and fears for the arduous road ahead. The tone is playful, but the undertones are significant, and a diverse cast of characters populates this moving story.

Click Clack, Surprise!, by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin
It’s Little Duck’s first birthday, and everybody on the farm is invited! Little Duck wants to put his finest feathers forward, but he’s never had a party before, so preparing for his fete quickly becomes a feat. Following the other animals’ lead, Duck takes a mud bath with the pigs, and trims his feathers with the sheep—and by the time the party arrives, he’s a mess! This is more storytime fun from the Click, Clack crew, and a perfect addition to your shelf!

Elephant & Piggie Like Reading! We are Growing!, by Mo Willems and Laurie Keller
8 blades of grass are growing—fast! Each blade declares itself the something-est: one’s the crunchiest, and another’s the curliest. But Walt can’t figure out what makes him stand out. Will he discover what makes him special before the lawn mower levels the playing field? This early reader is yards of fun!

Elephant & Piggie Like Reading! The Cookie Fiasco, by Mo Willems and Dan Santat
Elephant and Piggie share one of their favorite stories with us here—and it’s an arithmetic lesson too! 2 quirky squirrels, an endearing crocodile, and a giant hippo are gathered together for snack time. Unfortunately, they only have 3 cookies between them! There are numerous possible solutions, but only one will make everybody happy. Filled with fresh dialogue, and a silly story early readers are sure to love, this is a lively addition to the Elephant & Piggie collection.

Penguin Problems, by Jory John and Lane Smith
According to our narrator—a curmudgeon with a feather bow tie—it’s not always possible to make ice cream when life hands you snow. The ocean is cold and filled with sharks. Icebergs are slippery. And trying to find your mom in a sea of look-alike birds is…frustrating. After you add this hilarious story to your collection, you may want to rethink your arctic daydream.

How to Track a Truck, by Jason Carter Eaton and John Rocco
If you’ve ever wanted a truck for a pet, then this guide is for you—in one sitting you’ll learn how to track, train, and tolerate a truck in your very own home! First, assess your space—do you have room for an eighteen-wheeler? Next, take a look at the different breeds, notice their distinctive tracks—now you’re on your way! This handy primer on responsible truck taming is great fun for story time!

Hey, That’s MY Monster, by Amanda Noll
When Ethan checks under his bed, all he finds is a good-bye note from his favorite monster—Gabe’s gone! There’s a strong possibility that Gabe went to Ethan’s sister’s room—but Ethan’s not sure he’s ready to share. This inventive story, filled with shivers and sharing, is perfect for monster lovers of all ages!
What books are you reading to your little monsters this month?