The Most Exciting Picture Books Being Published in Fall 2023
by Rosemary D'Urso
Mark your calendar! Fall is almost here, and with it comes another school year, pumpkin-spiced lattes, gorgeous foliage, and a whole new season of fabulous books! Just wait until you indulge in these brand-new releases. You’ll find heartfelt tales, hysterical stories, holiday reads, and fresh offerings from award-winning creators and celebrity authors. It’s a little easier to say goodbye to summer with these highly anticipated books on the horizon.
-
Just Because
Available from:In his debut picture book, esteemed actor Matthew McConaughey creates a lyrical, thought-provoking story capturing life lessons through relatable moments. This one is a great conversation starter!
Also available from: -
Something, Someday
Available from:A new collaboration by all-stars Amanda Gorman and Christian Robinson? Yes, please! These two dynamic storytellers teamed up to create an inspirational story of hope by empowering children to be problem solvers and change makers.
Also available from: -
Femi and The Mindfulness Machine
Available from:Made in collaboration with Woke Babies, this wonderful STEM story aims to help young readers with feelings of worry and anxiety. Little Femi has built a wind machine for Science Day, but it doesn't always work the way it should. When his nerves start to get the better of him, Grandma's special calming techniques help to reassure him.
Also available from: -
Busy Betty & the Circus Surprise
Available from:The exuberant Busy Betty is back in her second adventure, where she throws a surprise party for her mother. However, Betty gets a surprise of her own! With her big heart and even bigger ideas, there’s much to love about this vivacious character created by the award-winning actress Reese Witherspoon.
Also available from: -
I Don't Want to Read This Book Aloud
Available from:Is there anything more terrifying than reading aloud in front of a group? This clever story uses humor and eye-catching illustrations to explore the pitfalls of reading aloud and reassure readers they are not alone in their fear. Fans of The Book With No Pictures will clamor for this one.
Also available from: -
I am Mister Rogers
Available from:Children learn how a shy Fred Rogers inspired millions with his television show promoting kindness in this appealing picture book biography. Complete with a timeline and photographs, this book captures the essence of a truly admirable person who made the world a better place through compassion and consideration for others.
Also available from: -
Santa's Gotta Go!
Available from:When Santa’s sleigh breaks down, he spends some quality time with the Mack family while waiting for the spare part. Unfortunately, Santa is more of a naughty houseguest than a nice one. Comical hijinks ensue in this imaginative holiday story.
Also available from: -
Flat Cat
Available from:After accidentally taking a spin in the dryer, Flat Cat’s smooth, two-dimensional body puffs into a fluffy new form. Tara Lazar’s cleverly crafted text pairs expertly with Pete Oswald’s giggle-worthy illustrations in this purrrfect story about flexibility and finding your groove when life takes an unexpected turn.
Also available from: -
Lawrence & Sophia
Available from:This sweet friendship story stars a boy and a bird who fear the unknown beyond their homes. When a storm approaches, they bravely overcome their fears and leave their comfort zone to ensure the other is safe.
Also available from: -
The Artivist
Available from:Art is a powerful medium for capturing and evoking emotions. Using stunning illustrations, Nikkolas Smith shares the story of a young boy who uses his talents as an artist to make a change in his community through compelling murals.
Also available from: -
Sankofa
Available from:In this beautiful celebration of culture, a young boy named Kofi initially dreads the idea of bringing a dish for his class potluck. However, once his parents introduce him to their family cookbook, he gains insight into the traditions of his ancestors. With a new appreciation for his roots, Kofi can’t wait to share a special meal with his classmates.
Also available from: -
My Little Sweet Boy
Available from:This beautiful love letter to a son is an excellent gift for baby showers, birthdays, and graduations. The tender, lyrical prose and charming illustrations make this reassuring read a good choice for bedtimes.
Also available from: -
Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Lost Christmas!
Available from:The long-awaited sequel to the classic holiday story How the Grinch Stole Christmas is here! Seuss-inspired rhymes and illustrations follow the Grinch as he tries to win the Whoville Christmas Crown by showering the Whos with merriment. Once again, he learns an important lesson about what the Christmas spirit is all about.
Also available from: -
Otto the Ornament
Available from:Silly puns abound in this humorous holiday story. Expressive illustrations follow an ornament named Otto on his journey of self-discovery as he learns to shine his brightest and share his light with others.
Also available from: -
What's Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon?
Available from:Prepare to feast your eyes on an absolutely stunning nonfiction book that compares and contrasts butterflies and moths. Both informative and entertaining, this one is a must-read for little nature lovers!
Also available from: -
Grumpy Monkey Yuck!
Available from:This all-too-relatable board book stars the cantankerous chimp, Jim Panzee, who only wants to eat bananas. The animated illustrations hilariously capture Jim’s aversion to trying new foods until one treat finally appeals to this ultra-picky eater.
Also available from: -
Nesting Dolls
Available from:When a young girl named Anyiaka feels like she doesn’t fit in with the rest of her family, her grandmother cleverly uses homemade nesting dolls as a metaphor. Although each doll is unique, they all fit together perfectly — just like her family. This is a beautifully told and heartfelt story!
Also available from: -
Wonderful Seasons
Available from:Follow a diverse group of children who experience the wonder and whimsy of each season in this enchanting board book. The soft color palette sets a cozy tone, making this one perfect for curling up and poring over with a loved one.
Also available from: -
Harlem at Four
Available from:This striking story spans decades as it shares two unique viewpoints. Initially, readers meet a fierce young girl named Harlem who spends the day exploring her neighborhood with her father. Then, the story jumps back in time to the development of the Harlem neighborhood. This poetic story is truly breathtaking.
Also available from: -
Mama's Sleeping Scarf
Available from:Bright illustrations bring a little girl’s imagination to life as she expresses her delight in playing with her mother’s beautiful scarf. This joyful story eloquently captures the love between family members.
Also available from: -
The Power of Yeti
Available from:A frustrated young boy believes he will never be able to tie his shoelaces until he meets a yeti who introduces him to the power of perseverance. I love how the idea of a positive mindset is effortlessly woven into this amusing story.
Also available from:
