The Best Kids' Books of 2026 (So Far)

As we reach the halfway point of 2026, it’s time to take a look back on the exceptional releases that you might have missed, especially when it comes to kids’ publishing. From picture books to chapter books, these are the tales that invite young readers to think differently about the world around them and inspire a lifelong love of reading and storytelling. Here are our picks for the Best Kids Books of 2026 (So Far).

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A resourceful young pickpocket named Tom is invited to a prestigious boarding school of thievery and tricks in the snowy Alps. But nothing is as it seems in the Shadow League as Tom races to uncover its dark secrets in this edge-of-your-seat adventure.

 

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This sweet and touching story about emotions follows a little girl who learns about forgiveness after accidentally breaking her ama’s favorite cup. Warm, tender and informative, little ones will learn the power of honesty and communication in this gorgeous picture book.

 

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This heartwarming story of friendship and compassion follows Wombat, a resilient young pup, who knows there is someone out there looking for her.

 

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Two unlikely animals become furry friends in this heartwarming story of connection that is inspired by true animal stories from zoos across the country.

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Ross Montgomery, author of I Am Rebel, returns with a tender tale of two brothers, their loyal horse and the quest to save their kingdom.

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This novel follows a young orphan during World War II who finds the courage to stand up for what’s right in a village filled with secrets.

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Have you ever wanted to jump right inside a book? Mayowa can do just that. But not everyone uses their book-jumping power for good. Embark on an adventure unlike any other in this unforgettable tale of courage.

 

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He’s funny, friendly and fishy. Sashimi wants to be human, so he sneaks into elementary school and hijinks ensue. But how can he stay afloat when he’s a fish out of water?

 

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A heartwarming, coming-of-age graphic novel about finding your place in the wild world of middle school.

 

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Prepare for lift off! What’s better than tractors on the ground? Tractors in space! Follow Toby the tractor as he embarks on a new adventure in this silly picture book that explores the solar system.

 

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Let the Cat in the Hat take you on a rhyming adventure through all 50 states in this brand-new Dr. Seuss book. It’s true — an original manuscript was discovered. What wonderful luck!

 

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The perfect gift for baby showers or Father’s Day, this is a gorgeous celebration of the loving bond between a dad and his child.

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Get a glimpse of tomorrow in this silly picture book that explores the future in all of its glory with vibrant illustrations and guaranteed laughs.

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Jessie Sima, the author of Not Quite Narwhal, crafts a bedtime story like none other. After an elf encounters a sleepy dragon, he conjures up the best bedtime story in the universe.

 

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Part caterpillar, part cat, all lovable. Kitty Caterpillar is the queen of her kingdom, but when she sets out on a new adventure, she learns just how important it is to have friends along the way.

 

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After bonding with the last griffin, a young girl must prove herself at an elite academy where she finds an unlikely ally. A perfect fantasy adventure for fans of Impossible Creatures.

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Enter the Zenith Academy for Magical Development, where Sparrow is determined to master her powers in this exciting adventure of magic, friendship and destiny.

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This silly ice cream tale follows a kingdom of subjects who only want ice cream! But what will this baffled princess do to keep everybody happy?

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The sixteenth book in the iconic Wings of Fire series will answer some of the biggest questions of the series and reveal even more secrets. Our Exclusive Edition features a very special poster.

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Bunns is a brave rabbit who was born with small ears and a big heart. She sets out on an unexpected quest to save her family in this gorgeous celebration of courage, dreams and being different.

 

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When Hogbert finds himself lost in the woods, far from the rest of his family, what is he to do? The little boar must find his way home in this gorgeously illustrated tale of kindness and independence.

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You can find friends in the wildest places! A young child chats with a gorilla for a silly and sweet story about connection and making new friends.

 

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Bartleby does things on his own time, in his own way. He’s here to teach little ones how to stay true to themselves in this adorable book featuring a dapper, polite little bear with extraordinary ideas.

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Enter a secret world of dragons and meet a young girl on a quest to find her true self. Perfect for fans of Impossible Creatures, Alex Evans is about to learn what it truly means to soar in a world of hidden powers and mysterious places.

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In Cassandra Calin’s follow-up to The New Girl, Lia navigates life with new friendships, big feelings and even a crush. Filled with humor and charm, this coming-of-age graphic novel is a perfect middle school read.

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The Baby-Sitter’s Club faces its biggest challenge yet when Dawn heads to California for the summer. With the sun, surf and her dad there, she might never want to leave…but what does that mean for her friends back home?

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It’s Captain Underpants like you’ve never seen him before! This re-imagined edition of the first chapter book is retold in an epic manga style for an exciting spin on the classic story.

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Leo is back in the game, now on a more advanced team where new challenges await. When an old enemy tries to play dirty, he must do everything he can to help his team win.

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The spin-off chapter book in the Creepy Carrots series delivers something even scarier: salad. Jasper has stories to share, and this time he is telling the tale of Thadeus and his spooky veggies.

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The graphic novel adaptation of the hit Warriors series continues with this edition of Midnight and Moonrise, the first two stories in The New Prophecy saga. The cats struggle to find meaning in the prophecy in this dangerous new quest.

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The InvestiGators are back with their signature antics and a cat-and-milk fiasco to solve. Help them tackle their silliest case yet!

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It’s a very special day for The Pigeon! Put on your party hats and get ready for a big bird-day surprise in the latest story from Mo Willems. Just make sure he doesn’t drive the bus!

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There’s a new truck in town! Little fans of Goodnight Goodnight, Construction Site will love this new addition, featuring a fire trick that saves the day.

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No job is too big, too small or too boring for these unicorns! Join the unicorns in uniforms for silly story about working together and community.

 

 

 

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