One of my 2026 reading resolutions is to read 46 new to me picture books. I thought it would be fun to take one day a month and spotlight picture books I have read recently. 

Itty Bitty Betty Blob (Itty Bitty Betty Blob #1 by Constance Lombardo, Micah Player (Illustrator)

“It’s monster picture day again, and Itty Bitty Betty Blob sits in front of the mirror where she practices growling for the camera. But for Betty it’s not so easy. She’s not a typical monster, so she doesn’t love scaring people.” A perfect book to read aloud for picture day AND to celebrate being true to ourselves. Loved this so very much.

A Letter to My Best Friend by Yangsook Choi

“Jihun recently moved to the United States. In his new classroom, he receives an assignment to write a letter to his best friend―but he’s not sure how it will turn out. First off, he’s still learning English. Second, he doesn’t have any friends at school yet. What’s more, his best friend back in Korea can’t read.” What a sweet, creative story about being new and keeping true to yourself while making new friends. The idea of writing a letter with pictures was heartwarming. I think this would lead to great class discussions. 

Campingland by Ame Dyckman, James Burks (Illustrator)

“A family’s excited to go camping! But they don’t know what they’re doing, and it does NOT go well.” Oh this was so funny! I could seriously identify with a family who has no idea what they are doing while camping and yet…they didn’t give up! This would be such a fun book to read in the summer. 

The Black Mambas: The World’s First All-Woman Anti-Poaching Unit by Kelly Crull

“Head out on patrol with the Black Mambas, South Africa’s first women-led anti-poaching unit.” I had never heard of this book or the Black Mambas until a kindergarten class at school voted it as their favorite March Madness Book. And then I had to wait for my hold to come in – clearly it is a popular book. AND it was fascinating. So well done. Filled with informative and accessible text and eye catching pictures, this is a great nonfiction story and proof that kids’ books are for everyone!