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.

Three Little Witches and the Spooky Old House by Peggy Archer, Gaia Bordicchia (Illustrator)

“A trio of witches needs a place to brew their magic, and the spooky old house down a dark road looks just right. It’s full of hairy scary spiders, musty dusty ghosts, creeeeeeaky floorboards, and shivery curtains. But as the witches work, the house seems to grow warmer and brighter. Just what kind of spell are these little witches casting?” This is adorable! Both the text and illustrations make this a charming Halloween read — perfect for read aloud (I love cumulative stories). So fun, great seasonal reading.

This Is Not a Sleepy Bear Book by Brian Gehrlein, Jennifer Harney (Illustrator)

“This is supposed to be a sleepy bear book—a gentle, quiet story. Until Bear opened his cozy, quiet den, only to find—A DJ and a disco ball? Guitar riffs and a booming bass? A random jazz flute? Stop all these shenanigans! THIS ISN’T WHAT HAPPENS IN A SLEEPY BEAR BOOK!” Such a funny book about a Bear and Owl trying to get ready for a long winter’s nap but there is a party happening. Party first, then nap?! Would be a fun read aloud.

Warm and Fuzzy by Scott Rothman, Brian Won (illustrator) 

“Warm and Fuzzy are best friends.Warm wants to go on an adventure, but Fuzzy isn’t sure.What if it’s scary? What if it’s really cold or super hot? What if there are no bathrooms, or no toilet paper!Warm says they have everything they need, but Fuzzy is worried.Should they bring snacks? A sensible change of clothes? Toilet paper?Warm knows where to go, but Fuzzy has questions.Have they been there before?” I am Fuzzy, I’ll admit it. I like things to be planned and organized, which are important! But it is nice to have a Warm in our life, right? A sweet story of trust and friendship.