Itty Bitty Betty Blob Makes a Splash
By Constance Lombardo | Illustrated by Micah Player

Itty Bitty Betty Blob is back! And this time Betty has to try out for an afterschool activity. Will it be cooking? Drama? Diving? Sweet and sensitive, Betty is a heroine who reminds kids ages 4 – 8 that being yourself is more than enough. A fun, confidence-boosting story perfect for first-day jitters.

Themes: self-confidence, trying new things, being yourself

The Bus for Us
By Suzanne Bloom

It’s the first day of school for Tess, and it’s also her very first ride on a school bus. Waiting at the bus stop with her older friend Gus, Tess eagerly asks, “Is this the bus for us, Gus?” as each vehicle passes by. A perfect picture book to share with children starting school or those riding the school bus for the first time.

Themes: new beginnings, self-confidence, helping others

Call Me Roberto!: Roberto Clemente Goes to Bat for Latinos
By Nathalie Alonso | Illustrated by Rudy Gutierrez

Celebrate the legacy of baseball legend Roberto Clemente, who challenged injustice and inspired millions. This powerful biography is a great conversation starter about perseverance, representation, and standing up for others.

Themes: identity, activism, Latinx history, sports

Also available in Spanish!

Rabbit’s Feat
By Barney Saltzberg

This touching social emotional learning picture book by acclaimed creator Barney Saltzberg is about a determined boulder who yearns to get close enough to his cactus friend to see her flowers bloom, and the thoughtful rabbit who makes their wish come true. A sweet and simple story is just right for young readers learning about friendship and empathy.

Themes: kindness, helping others, emotional growth

Jump for Joy
By Karen Gray Ruelle | Illustrated by Hadley Hooper

Kid seeks dog. Dog seeks kid. In this charming and imaginative tale of friendship, picture book readers will delight in what it means to have a furry best friend.

Themes: belonging, friendship, emotional intelligence

The Little Chefs
By Rosemary Wells

When dinner goes sideways, the tiny Little Chefs arrive to save the day with kitchen know-how and plenty of personality. A whimsical story about teamwork, perseverance, and culinary fun.

Themes: teamwork, problem-solving, creativity

Thomas Jefferson Builds a Library
By Barb Rosenstock | Illustrated by John O’Brien

Young readers of all ages will love this story about President Thomas Jefferson, who found his passion as soon as he learned to read: books, books, and more books! In fact, his massive collection eventually helped rebuild the Library of Congress—now the largest library in the world.

Themes: American history, reading, nonfiction

Orson and the World’s Loudest Library
By Laura Gehl | Illustrated by Stephanie Roth Sisson

In this picture book love letter to public libraries, Orson learns to navigate his big feelings by sharing his love of reading with newfound friends at his local branch.

Themes: libraries, reading, finding your voice

My Librarian Is a Camel: How Books Are Brought to Children Around the World
By Margriet Ruurs

Take a global journey to see how books reach children in the most remote places—from camels in Kenya to boats in the Amazon. A nonfiction celebration of reading, librarians, and determination. Celebrating 20 years in print!

Themes: global literacy, access to education, nonfiction

One Day, The End: Short, Very Short, Shorter-than-Ever Stories
By Rebecca Kai Dotlich | Illustrated by Fred Koehler

Each micro-story begins with “One day…” and ends with “The end.” What happens in between is told almost entirely through clever illustrations. A brilliant tool for sparking creativity and classroom writing projects.

Themes: storytelling, writing, humor, imagination

Also available in Spanish!