Book Lists

New Picture Books

Spring 2026

Fascinating nonfiction, hilarious readalouds, touching lessons in social emotional learning, and (of course) captivating illustrations abound in the new RHCB picture books hitting shelves in spring 2026.

Keep reading to learn more and explore free resources to use in your classroom or library.

ABBA: A Little Golden Book Biography

ABBA: A Little Golden Book Biography

Jeneanne DeBois

You can dance, you can jive as you celebrate the iconic pop band ABBA with this collectible and beautifully illustrated Little Golden Book!

Because of a Shoe

Because of a Shoe

Julie Fogliano

Everybody has tantrums—kids, and even moms—in this tender yet funny picture book about an especially impossible-to-put-on pair of shoes from award-winning duo Julie Fogliano and Marla Frazee.

Because of You, I'm a Sister

Because of You, I'm a Sister

Jen Fier Jasinski

A heartwarming celebration of sibling love and the journey of becoming a big sister. The perfect gift for families welcoming a new baby or preparing their child for the arrival of a sibling.

Best Bunny Brother Ever

Best Bunny Brother Ever

Marilyn Sadler

P.J. Funnybunny from the classic Beginner Book It’s Not Easy Being a Bunny coaches his little sister, Honey Bunny, at T-ball in a story that celebrates family ties and is perfect for Eastertime and gift-giving all year long!

Bing's Cherries

Bing's Cherries

Livia Blackburne

A modern American tall tale woven by a girl and her father about Ah Bing, the Chinese immigrant behind the Pacific Northwest’s most delicious cherries.

Black Hands

Black Hands

Carole Boston Weatherford

Commemorate the innumerable ways the African American community has shaped the foundation of the United States in this stunning, poetic picture book from the Caldecott Honor-winning team behind Freedom in Congo Square.

Carnival Queen

Carnival Queen

Donette Williams-Harry

A joyful Carnival book for kids ages 3-7 about the power of community, with vibrant illustrations and back matter introducing traditional holiday celebrations all around the world.

The Chick-o-saurus

The Chick-o-saurus

Kelly Crull

Look out! A prehistoric adventure awaits in this humorous, action-packed exploration of dinosaurs from the past (and the present!) in this picture book from National Geographic Kids.

Crouton

Crouton

Kristine A. Lombardi

Join Crouton, a lovable shelter cat, as she searches for her perfect person—because not everyone would be the right fit. But wait! Who is that over there? This heartwarming adoption story playfully told from the pet’s perspective celebrates the joy of finding a furever home.

Dolly Parton Ultimate Fan Edition Little Golden Book Biography

Dolly Parton Ultimate Fan Edition Little Golden Book Biography

Deborah Hopkinson

This deluxe edition of the bestselling Little Golden Book about Dolly Parton has 22 new pages of content, a sheet of stickers, and beautiful new cover art with glitter and foil—perfect for Dolly fans of all ages!

Don't Do It, Doug!

Don't Do It, Doug!

Maudie Powell-Tuck

A humorous story for children ages 3-7 of a lovable hamster named Doug, who has a penchant for curiosity but absolutely no impulse control.

Duck Delivers

Duck Delivers

Tom Tinn-Disbury

Follow along with a homebody duck who learns to spread his wings in this story of adventure and missed (literal) signs with a message of perseverance and positivity.

Emily Saw a Door

Emily Saw a Door

Mel Rosenberg

In this story about inclusion and acceptance, a girl goes from door to door, hoping to find one that will welcome her inside. But when each one turns her away, Emily realizes that the only door that will open for her is the one she creates herself.

The Future Book

The Future Book

Mac Barnett

Every other book was written in the past. But this book? This book was written in the future.

Do you want to know what the future is like? Turn the pages to get a glimpse at the world of tomorrow and its unexpected words, strange social customs, and mind-blowing colors!

Getting Ready for Second Grade

Getting Ready for Second Grade

Vera Ahiyya

Get Ready for Second Grade in this exciting new series for kids embarking on new adventures–written by an actual teacher! Vera Ahiyya, the Tutu Teacher, knows all about what your child can expect on their first day… and how to make the experience an empowering one for new students!

Gigantic

Gigantic

Rob Biddulph

A tiny whale with a BIG heart will capture the hearts of readers in this underwater adventure with positive messages about teamwork and believing in yourself.

Grumpy Monkey Father's Day Fuss

Grumpy Monkey Father's Day Fuss

Suzanne Lang

This new seasonal title in the #1 New York Times bestselling Grumpy Monkey series celebrates fathers and grandfathers – plus we learn where Jim gets his grumpiness from!

Haircut Day with Dad

Haircut Day with Dad

Monica Mikai

This touching picture book takes a look at the beautiful relationship between a Black father and son when they spend the day at a barbershop. Perfect for Father’s Day or all year round!

Happy Birthday, Wonderful You!: Encouraging Imaginative Play and Social Skills (Ms. Rachel)

Happy Birthday, Wonderful You!: Encouraging Imaginative Play and Social Skills (Ms. Rachel)

Ms. Rachel

Grab a piece of cake and get ready to learn all about birthdays with Ms. Rachel—the New York Times bestselling author and fastest-growing phenomenon in children’s educational entertainment. This upbeat and colorful storybook includes over 25 stickers!

Houdini's Library

Houdini's Library

Barb Rosenstock

A fresh and fascinating picture book biography about the iconic magician Harry Houdini, an avid book collector who lived and breathed the idea that books are magic, from the author of Caldecott Honor book The Noisy Paint Box.

How to Hatch

How to Hatch

Sara Holly Ackerman

Discover how a gosling hatches into the world, step by step, in this irresistibly cute and funny nonfiction picture book.

Hummingbird's Big Trip

Hummingbird's Big Trip

G. Brian Karas

This triumphant story about a nervous hummingbird who faces his fears of migrating will remind readers that even the biggest challenges can be overcome through perseverance, courage, and self-confidence.

I Love You Rain or Shine

I Love You Rain or Shine

Danielle McLean

This heartwarming story reminds little ones how precious they are and shows them that love can weather any storm.

I'm So Happy You're Here: A Celebration of Library Joy

I'm So Happy You're Here: A Celebration of Library Joy

Mychal Threets

Dubbed “the Internet’s librarian”— and now host of the relaunched Reading Rainbow — Mychal Threets invites all to take a look and find themselves at the library! Perfect for little readers who are regular visitors and those who might be stepping into the stacks for the first time.

Jenna Ortega: A Little Golden Book Biography

Jenna Ortega: A Little Golden Book Biography

Heather E. Schwartz

Jenna Ortega, the talented rising star known for her roles in Stuck in the MiddleWednesday, and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice—shines in this beautifully illustrated and collectible Little Golden Book biography!

Jeong Is Jeong

Jeong Is Jeong

Jessica Yoon

“What is Jeong?” a little girl asks her grandma, and so begins a lyrical journey of discovery, kindness, and understanding in this ode to Korean American language and culture.

How can one tiny word mean so much?

Judy Garland & Liza Minnelli: A Little Golden Book Biography

Judy Garland & Liza Minnelli: A Little Golden Book Biography

Phil Stamper

From the yellow brick road to the bright lights of Broadway, explore the extraordinary lives of the mother-daughter duo Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli in this beautifully illustrated collectible Little Golden Book!

Let It Shine!

Let It Shine!

Carole Boston Weatherford

From the Newbery Honor-winning author of Box: Henry Brown Mails Himself to Freedom comes a joyful picture book set to “This Little Light of Mine.” With a unique jacket and case cover, it’s the perfect gift for all of life’s milestones.

Lulu Didn't Want a Dog

Lulu Didn't Want a Dog

Laurel Molk

A funny and adorable look at the age-old cats vs dogs issue that will appeal to cat lovers and dog lovers as well as anyone looking for a story about accepting big changes.

Mama Loves It

Mama Loves It

Raffi

A family tidies up the house together in this heartwarming sing-along picture book from beloved children’s musician and performer, Raffi.

Mama Won't Mind

Mama Won't Mind

Kathleen Bahr

Join a young raccoon on his journey to find the perfect gift for Mama in this timeless tale with stunning art from a New York Times bestselling illustrator.

Marcie and Giraffe

Marcie and Giraffe

Kim Gregory

Meet Marcie and Giraffe–two friends bursting with personality–in this book filled with whimsical illustrations about art for children ages 3-7 as they learn to use creativity to work through big feelings together.

Maya's World

Maya's World

Andrea Pippins

A young artist is eager to share her colorful artwork but when the rainbow she creates causes confusion among her classmates, she must overcome self-doubt in this empowering picture book about embracing the artist in you!

Mission: Bedtime

Mission: Bedtime

Tracey Corderoy

An action-packed, funny bedtime story for children ages 3-7 from best-selling author Tracey Corderoy. Features a glow-in-the-dark cover!

Mister Norton's New Truck

Mister Norton's New Truck

Huw Lewis Jones

In this humorous story for children ages 3-7, Mr. Norton finds that a bear has borrowed his bicycle and accidentally ruined the wheels. How will Mr. Norton get to work now?

Moon's Lullaby

Moon's Lullaby

Júlia Moscardó

Day is drawing to a close at the pond as Mama Goose prepares her five little goslings for bed with the story of Moon’s lullaby that’s just right for children ages 3-7.

The Mother Tree

The Mother Tree

Sybil Rosen

In this picture book celebrating the power that even the smallest of us have to protect the natural world, a kid saves the most important tree in the forest from being chopped down.

The Naked Streak

The Naked Streak

Kim Howard

Dress code: birthday suit! Here is a side-splittingly funny picture book about a kid who refuses to wear any clothing — until they discover a few unusual fashion pieces…

Navigating Night

Navigating Night

Julie Leung

A girl guides her dad on his route delivering Chinese take-out food in this touching picture book, written by an APALA-award winner, that celebrates the unique bond between immigrant parents and their children.

Pizzasaurus

Pizzasaurus

Tammi Sauer

Pizzasaurus cares about one thing and one thing only: PIZZA! And he’s inviting you to a prehistoric pizza party in this hilarious picture book from the beloved author of Wordy Birdy and Mary Had a Little Glam.

Prince: A Little Golden Book Biography

Prince: A Little Golden Book Biography

Nikki Shannon Smith

Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to introduce young readers to the life and legacy of the one and only Prince in this beautifully illustrated and collectible Little Golden Book!

Ramadan Rain

Ramadan Rain

Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

In this heartwarming celebration of family and faith, join Haneen and her Momma as they celebrate Eid and the end of Ramadan with prayers made on a rainy day.

Reach for the Stars

Reach for the Stars

Isabel Otter

A life-affirming and motivational gift book for children ages 3-7 that celebrates how loved they are.

In this great universe of galaxies, you are here, you are seen, and you are loved.

Richard Scarry's Best Mommy Ever!

Richard Scarry's Best Mommy Ever!

Richard Scarry

Celebrate Mom with this adorable picture book featuring Huckle Cat, Sally Cat, Lowly Worm, and their friends from Richard Scarry’s Busytown! It’s the perfect gift for Mother’s Day or anytime you want to tell your mom how much you appreciate her!

Ritu in the Sun

Ritu in the Sun

Moniza Hossain

A lyrical picture book about one little girl’s experience with colorism—and a celebration of that which can make us see things anew: light and love.

Rock and Roll

Rock and Roll

Ruby Amy Thompson

A sweet, laugh-out-loud story of friendship that reminds readers ages 3-7 that first impressions can be deceptive.

Sheep & Goat Climb the World

Sheep & Goat Climb the World

A. C. Paolini

A rip roaring action-packed story about Sheep versus Goat and the competitive spirit that launches them on a trip around the world!

Shohei Ohtani: A Little Golden Book Biography

Shohei Ohtani: A Little Golden Book Biography

Nicole de las Heras

Step up to the plate and read about Shohei Ohtani, the record-breaking baseball superstar from Japan, in this collectible Little Golden Book featuring colorful illustrations!

Stop That Bunny!

Stop That Bunny!

Alastair Heim

An exciting, humorous, and rhyming detective chase set at Easter, perfect for children ages 3-7.

Taylor & Travis Forever Ultimate Fan Edition Little Golden Book Biography

Taylor & Travis Forever Ultimate Fan Edition Little Golden Book Biography

Nicole de las Heras

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are getting married! Celebrate by reading an all-new illustrated biography about everyone’s favorite couple, and then use your imagination to plan their wedding by writing in your ideas and drawing your designs on the interactive pages!

There's a Bunny in Your Book

There's a Bunny in Your Book

Tom Fletcher

Uh oh! There’s a hungry bunny in your book! Help her find a snack in this interactive Easter adventure from the bestselling author of There’s a Monster in Your Book that’s perfect for little ones learning to share.

This Was Not the Plan

This Was Not the Plan

Jane Chapman

The perfect book for any child ages 3-7 who finds disappointment or compromise a bit of a challenge!

Two Artists, Grandad and Me

Two Artists, Grandad and Me

Charnelle Pinkney Barlow

A young girl spends a magical day in her grandad’s painting studio, discovering the joy of art, music, and the special bond they share. By the granddaughter of legendary Caldecott Medal-winning children’s book illustrator Jerry Pinkney.

Van Gogh's Dog

Van Gogh's Dog

Georgia Larson

Join artist Vincent van Gogh on an epic dog chase through spaces and places inspired by his most famous works in this imaginative picture book. Perfect for introducing young readers to his iconic art.

When I Redraw the World

When I Redraw the World

Audrey Vernick

An endearing and fun celebration of imagination and curiosity as a young girl imagines a world where everyone has a home, animals have tea parties instead of fights, and tree-house ice cream shops will be a thing.

When the Sun Goes Down

When the Sun Goes Down

Greg Pizzoli

Discover where creatures go when the sun goes down in this interractive and rhythmic bedtime read for sleepy animal lovers by an award-winning creator!

When We Were Snails

When We Were Snails

Nan Cao

When her mom has to work far away, a young girl holds on to the memory of her mother’s unwavering love and dreams of their reunion. This heartwarming story delves into the challenges of having a working parent and the courage it takes to be apart from your loved ones. Features a unique jacket and case design!

When You Meet My Friend

When You Meet My Friend

Mark Sperring

A heartwarming and reassuring story for children ages 3-7 about a boy’s first day at school and the spread of friendship and kindness as he is welcomed into the class. Features a surprise ending!

Where Do Race Cars Sleep at Night?

Where Do Race Cars Sleep at Night?

Brianna Caplan Sayres

Children! Quiet your engines! Zoom off to sleep with a new “things that go” bedtime story about race cars—from the creators of the bestselling Where Do Diggers Sleep at Night? series.

Who Are You?

Who Are You?

Claire Keane

A young girl spends the day exploring the outdoors, and as she does, she realizes that every experience–from watching butterflies flit to feeling the sting of raindrops–shapes who she is meant to become.

Whose Nest Is Best?

Whose Nest Is Best?

Lyndsay Wasko

Fly alongside birds of the world in this stunning picture book that’s just right for children ages 3-7. Includes back matter on birds and their homes.

The Wildest Thing

The Wildest Thing

Emily Winfield Martin

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of The Wonderful Things You Will Be comes an enchanting picture book about a child finding their “wild” self.

With You In Spirit

With You In Spirit

Jenny Liao

A little girl and her family come together to honor her late grandfather on Qing Ming or Tomb-Sweeping Day in this heartwarming story about celebrating ancestors.

Watch the RHCB Spring 2026 Preview

Watch a prerecorded conversation with the amazing Newbery medal–winning author Tae Keller and her editor, Caroline Abbey, as they spill the secrets about her upcoming book, When Tomorrow Burns. Dive into a world of friendship, new crushes, internet safety, and even climate change, all wrapped up in a thrilling mystery that kids can imagine happening right in their own backyard!

After the chat, stick around for a sneak peek at all the fresh, fantastic titles coming in Spring 2026, brought to you by the RHCB School & Library team. 

ARCs

Explore and request digital Advance Reader Copies of upcoming books from Random House Children’s Books!

image

Picture Book and Graphic Novel Titles

Visit us on Edelweiss to learn more.

Take me to Edelweiss!
image

Middle Grade and Young Adult Titles

Visit us on Netgalley to learn more.

Take me to NetGalley!

Explore More Spring 2026 Titles

image

Books for Emerging Readers

These early readers and chapter books offer humor, heart, and engaging, character-driven stories that are perfect for emerging readers.

Discover More
image

Middle Grade Books

Middle grade readers, rejoice! From graphic novels to historical fiction and everything in between, our spring 2026 list has something for everyone.

Discover More
image

Young Adult Books

Nonfiction, romantasy, thrillers—we have all these and more coming in 2026 for your teen readers!

Discover More
image

New in Paperback

Check out the books for all ages newly available in paperback!

Discover More

Connect with Us on Social

Follow Random House Children’s Books Teachers & Librarians for book news, conference information, behind the scenes content, and free resources!

Stay in the Know!

Get the latest news, including new book releases, classroom resources, awards news, and more, by signing up for our email newsletter.

Related Articles

Related Resources

Random House Children's Books Teachers and Librarians