2026 Picture Book Nominees
Small Poster by Janelle Yoder
Video done by Janelle Yoder (YouTube)
Berry Song by Michaela Goade, 2022
AR 2.9 LEX 740 PreK-3
As a young Tlingit girl collects wild berries over the seasons, she sings with her Grandmother as she learns to speak to the land and listen when the land speaks back.
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Big by Vashti Harrison, 2022
AR 1.7 PreK-3
This deeply moving story shares valuable lessons about fitting in, standing out, and the beauty of joyful acceptance, from an award-winning creator.
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The Book of Rules by Brian Gehrlein, 2021
Lex AD370 PreK-2
Presents a series of rules the reader must follow to avoid being eaten by Dennis the monster, including sitting on the floor crisscross-applesauce, making a fish face, and preparing to listen mindfully.
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Dark on Light by Dianne White, 2022
LEX AD220 PresK-3
As night falls, a trio of siblings stumble upon some of nature's hidden nighttime beauty, including timid fawns, blossoming lavender, silent owls, and many more wonders of the night.
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How to Draw a Happy Cat by Ethan T. Berlin, 2022
LEX AD480 PreK-3
Drawing a happy cat seems like such an easy thing to do. Just follow the instructions in this book! Wait a minute...why doesn't Cat look happy? We gave her a stuffy and a cool t-shirt! Uh-oh! Turns out drawing a happy cat is harder than it looks.
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I Can't Draw by Stephen W. Martin, 2022
LEX AD500 PreK-3
Max recruits his friend Eugene to teach him how to improve his drawing, but none of Eugene's helpful tips fit Max's style.
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In Every Life by Marla Frazee
AR 1.6 LEX AD200 PreK-3
A picture book celebrating both the highs and lows that everyone experiences in the course of a life.
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Remembering by Xelena Gonzalez, 2023
AR 2.9 PreK-3
On Dia de los Muertos, a family prepares an ofrenda for their favorite furry family member, remembering all the ways that their beloved pet brought love and comfort to their lives.
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The Truth About Dragons by Julie Leung, 2023
AR 4.7 LEX AD910 Grade 1-2
In a mix of Eastern and Western mythologies, a mother tells her child about two forests inhabited by different, but equally enchanting dragons that coexist within the child's heart.
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The World's Best Class Plant by Liz Garton Scanlon and Audrey Vernick, 2023
AR 3.6 LEX AD710 PreK-2
A class that is terribly disappointed in their lack of a class pet discovers that having a class plant is the best thing ever.
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