by Sandra Nickel, illustrated by Calvin Nicholls; Levine Querido, 2026; a stand-out bio told in the style of a fairy tale brims with examples of Andersen’s fortitude and triumph despite bruising ridicule and failure.
Picture Book
Under One Roof
by Miranda Paul and Baptiste Paul, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal; Clarion Books, 2026; a soothing, rhyming picture book for Pre-K–Grade 2 that peeks at ways families prepare for bed and the circumstances around those preparations, and shines a light on what we all have in common as we do.
I Hear the Snow, I Smell the Sea
by Janice Milusich, illustrated by Chris Raschka; Anne Schwartz Books, 2025; A young blind child takes joy in experiencing the four seasons through the use of touch, taste, smell, and sound. A lyrical, uplifting Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection illustrated by a two-time Caldecott Medalist.
Faith Takes the Train
by Kesi Augustine, illustrated by Mokshini; Harper, 2025; An empowering picture book celebrating outreach, possibilities, and imagination, Faith Takes a Train centers on a brief but pivotal experience in an urban setting. It’s filled with positivity, warmth, and agency, from its clear message of kindness and community to its charming illustrations.
One Sweet Song
by Jyoti Rajan Gopal, illustrated by Sonia Sánchez; Candlewick Press, 2024.
“One sweet song for heart and soul; one sweet song to make us whole.” Here’s a counting tale told in lilting rhyme that mirrors the soothing storyline. A diverse neighborhood comes together through music that gradually grows and gently falls. The notes played help overcome loneliness, lift hearts, and connect young and old.
A Family Like Ours
by Frank Murphy and Alice Lee, illustrated by Kayla Harren; Sleeping Bear Press, 2023.
The latest in the …Like series of picture books, A Family Like Ours celebrates the diversity found in families while reflecting on the commonalities. As the refrain that grows through the book reflects, “We are braver together, we are better together, we are made to be together. We are safe together; we are stronger together.”