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 and enjoyed recently.

Outside In and the Inside Out: A Story About Arnold Lobel by Emmy Kastner

“A thoughtful and whimsical picture book about Arnold Lobel, award-winning creator of Frog and Toad.” This was lovely. I have always adored Frog and Toad, but didn’t know much about their creator. Such an accessible book for kids and a wonderful note from the author at the end. Loved this so much and learned so much too.

No More Gnomes by Beth Mills

“Herbert is the politest kid in town. He even has a medal to prove it! But his good manners are put to the test when his afterschool nanny, Ms. Goat, brings home a VERY RUDE garden gnome.” Another absolutely hilarious picture book — the facial expressions of the characters are priceless. How can we be polite AND ALSO express what we need/like/don’t like? Great story to read aloud and discuss.

Monkeypig by Huw Aaron

“She’s a monkey! No, she’s a pig! She’s . . . Monkeypig?” This was hilarious! I loved the illustrations and this would be so much fun to read aloud — kids would love being in on the secret! 

The Skeleton and the Cat by Brandon James Scott

“A humorous and touching tale of the unexpected friendship that blossoms between a peaceful skeleton and a persistent cat. Told in five short and charming stories that will remind you of Frog and Toad.” This book. So many heart eyes. I think my heart grew ten times just reading this sweet story about an unlikely friendship. Sweet and funny and thoughtful. This is destined to be a classic.

Marianne the Maker by Kelly Corrigan, Claire Corrigan Lichty, George Sweetland (illustrator)

THIS BOOK! Oh my gosh! I made my family stop what they were doing so they could read it too and they think they are too old for picture books (what do they know?!). Gahhh, I love Marianne and her dog (I won’t spoil it, but the dog’s name — I squealed). AND her dad! And the end! So many heart eyes. What a fun book for kids and what a great reminder to us parents to celebrate our kids and support their interests even if they aren’t our interests. SO much love.

No More Chairs by Dan Gill, Susan Gal  (Illustrator)

Drop everything you are doing and go buy this book for your classroom library and your read aloud. What a beautiful story — a lesson on how to respond in a beautiful way to unwelcoming behavior. I just loved this so much.