In a world where children's literature has reached new heights, a vibrant community of writers, illustrators, booksellers, and publishers are pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual artistry. From whimsical tales that transport young readers to enchanting realms to thought-provoking narratives that broaden perspectives, these exceptional books offer a feast for the senses and the mind.

Discover the Extraordinary in the Everyday

Uncovering the Extraordinary in the Ordinary

Ruth Krauss' delightful book, first published in 1973 and reprinted in 2024 by New York Review of Books, invites readers to ponder the imaginative possibilities that arise when children are small enough to fit under a mushroom. Through Krauss' captivating prose and the book's charming illustrations, readers are transported to a world where the mundane becomes extraordinary, as children transform a simple mushroom into a bustling town, marvel at the rising moon, and become one with the flowers in the garden. This timeless tale reminds us to embrace the wonder that lies in the everyday, a sentiment that resonates with both children and adults alike.

Faces in Unexpected Places

Illustrator Julie Morstad's latest book challenges readers to see the world through a new lens, discovering the diverse and peculiar faces that exist all around us. "Morstad specializes in finding wonder in the mundane — just like kids do," says Chadwick Matlin, journalist, dad, and author of Writ Small. Morstad's keen eye and exacting pencil uncover faces in the most unexpected places, from flowers and clouds to potatoes, encouraging readers to examine these "works of art" with the same reverence as they would a masterpiece. This captivating book invites both children and adults to appreciate the extraordinary in the ordinary, fostering a deeper connection with the world around them.

The Magic of Mathematics

The Book That Can Read Your Mind, a unique creation that blends book, magic trick, and game, is sure to intrigue readers of all ages. "This book uses incredible mathematical magic to woo and amaze kids and grown-ups," writes Stephanie Lemoine, toy-design director at Sago Mini and mom of two. With each turn of the page, readers are met with a new surprise, as the book's ingenious design leverages mathematical principles to create a truly astonishing experience. This innovative title challenges the boundaries of what a book can be, seamlessly merging entertainment and education in a way that delights and captivates its audience.

Kindness and Laughter in Unexpected Places

Fang's story about mysterious visitors who crash land in Mr. Li's field and eventually find connection with the townspeople has been recommended time and again by a diverse array of readers. "I literally laugh until I have tears in my eyes every time I read this book. It's a hilarious book, but also about kindness," says Ruth Chan, illustrator and creator of the graphic memoir, Uprooted. The book's appeal spans age groups, with Books Are Magic owner and author Emma Straub noting that her children, ages 8 and 11, both "read and loved it, proving that no one is ever too old for picture books." Comedy writer, author, and mother of two Bess Kalb praises Fang's ability to craft an engaging and playful narrative that never talks down to its young readers, while also conveying a heartwarming message about embracing those in need.

Exploring the Fantastical in Everyday Life

Illustrator Eric Fan recommends Fang's "equally wonderful Dim Sum Palace," published last year, in which a little girl's love of dim sum takes her on a fantastical food adventure in her dreams. "She's definitely an artist and writer to watch," says Fan, who also highlights Loren Long's The Yellow Bus as a poignant and beautiful tale about the bittersweet acceptance of change. Long's dedication to creating a miniature town as a reference for the art is evident in the book's stunning visuals, which seamlessly blend the ordinary and the extraordinary.

Creatures, Factories, and the Search for Home

Fan's own newest title, Barnaby Unboxed, is a captivating sequel to the beloved The Barnabus Project (2020). Featuring the hybrid animal creation Barnaby, who is half-mouse, half-elephant, and a touch flamingo, the story follows his journey from the underground factory where he was once considered a failed experiment to his excitement at being cared for by a child of his own. However, Barnaby's experience turns out to be quite different from what he expected. With breathtaking illustrations and eloquent writing, the Fan brothers' books consistently transport readers to imaginative worlds that blend the familiar and the fantastical.

Finding Harmony in Diversity

In Gosia Herba's lively book, The House at No. 5 Bubblegum Street, a menagerie of anthropomorphized animals must learn to live together in a crowded house. Each creature has their own unique quirks and preferences, from Mouse, the famous rapper, to Panther, the plant collector, and Bat, the boisterous dancer. As the animals navigate the challenges of coexisting in a bustling building, they are ultimately forced to see past their differences and celebrate each other's strengths to truly appreciate one another.

Blending Genres and Challenging Perspectives

Sid Sharp's book, which Aranda describes as "somewhere between a picture book, a fable, and a graphic novel," delights both kids and adults with its wry sense of humor and respect for children. Aranda praises the book's "perhaps the most memorable illustrations" they have seen in years, calling it a "modern folk tale" that is sure to become a classic.

Celebrating Diversity and Broadening Perspectives

Erin Jang, an artist and designer, commends Lamothe's All About U.S. for providing a "rare and intimate look into the daily lives of children across the country." Her 8-year-old son was "fascinated reading about the diversity of experiences, backgrounds, and family structures of kids his own age, broadening his perspective beyond our own." This follow-up to the much-loved This Is How We Do It documents different types of homes, family structures, abilities, religious backgrounds, and cultures, offering a rich and inclusive portrayal of children in each of the 50 states.

Turning Tropes on Their Head

Ligaya Tichy, a co-founder of Majo Ideas and a San Francisco–based parent of an 8-year-old, raves about Kate DiCamillo's "silly laugh-out-loud animal adventures" centered around Orris, a misanthropic rat, and Timble, a wide-eyed owl. The story "turns the predator-prey relationship on its head, weaving in questions of morality and virtue," with illustrations by Carmen Mok that "bring the story to life." This is the first installment in a planned trilogy, promising more delightful and thought-provoking tales to come.

Mysteries, Friendship, and the Wonders of New York City

Chanel Miller, known for her powerful memoir Know My Name, has now published her first middle-grade book, which stars Magnolia, a plucky 10-year-old sock detective whose parents own a laundromat. Tichy describes this tale of "friendship and discovery" as a "love letter to NYC" that will have readers "falling in love with the city all over again."

Eccentric Characters and Clever Humor

Courtney Klein, founder of Storq and mom of two, praises A Gallery of Rogues as a "wonderfully offbeat mystery series for middle-grade readers, full of eccentric characters and clever humor, with witty writing that makes it a perfect read-aloud." This sequel to The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels (2023) follows Shenanigan Swift as she searches for family treasure and confronts art thieves, embarking on one adventure after another.

Blending Science Fiction and Realism

Briana Parker, a co-owner of Lofty Pigeon Books, describes Boy 2.0 as "a completely original superhero story that deftly tackles issues of race, family, and belonging with adventure and heart." This captivating narrative combines science fiction with deep realism as it follows Win "Coal" Keegan, a boy navigating the foster-care system who also happens to have the power of invisibility.

The Enduring Appeal of Robots and Nature

Peter Brown's The Wild Robot series, which recently debuted in theaters to widespread acclaim, has captivated readers of all ages. The first book in the series, The Wild Robot, introduces Roz, a soulful robot who washes up on a remote island and develops deep relationships with the array of living creatures there. The subsequent books, The Wild Robot Escapes and The Wild Robot Protects, continue Roz's adventures, blending heartfelt storytelling with inventive world-building. This series is not only a delight to read aloud but also an engaging choice for developing middle-grade readers.

Navigating Change with Humor and Honesty

Ruth Chan's graphic memoir, Uprooted, resonated deeply with the author's own daughter, who tore through the book in less than a day. The story follows a young Ruth as she navigates the challenges of moving from Toronto to Hong Kong, leaving behind her friends and familiar life. Chan's honest and humorous portrayal of adapting to a new place and language strikes a chord with young readers, who appreciate the authentic exploration of complicated emotions.

Inspiring Curiosity and Creativity

Aranda praises What a Rock Can Reveal, a book that uses almost tactile-feeling illustrations by Sonia Pulido to tell the story of the Earth's geology. Author Wei-Haas focuses on explaining how a rock's shape, color, and texture can provide clues about its own history, making this an engaging and informative read for young scientists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Discovering the Wonders of Cinema

Writer and artist Austin Kleon recommends the A24 book, which is "full of movie-night recommendations for kids of different ages." Kleon, who has been hosting a Friday pizza-and-a-movie-night with his family for over three years, notes that this book is a "helpful way to get kids excited about lesser-known movies, cult classics, and lots of suggestions you never would have come across just endlessly scrolling Netflix." With movie facts, games, and a wealth of recommendations, this title is a valuable resource for families looking to expand their cinematic horizons.