New Picture Books Coming Fall 2026
by Rosemary D'Urso
As hard as it is to say goodbye to summer, this fall’s exceptional lineup of children’s books makes the transition a little easier. From heartwarming holiday stories and laugh-out-loud read-alouds to the return of beloved characters in brand-new adventures, this season is filled with highly anticipated releases, including several unforgettable books that may just become future classics. So, grab a pumpkin latte, curl up under a cozy blanket, and get ready to discover stories that are sure to become favorites at home and in the classroom.
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Dragon Dog
Buy from:I dare you to look at the cover and not want to immediately pick up this book! From the creators of the bestselling Grumpy Monkey series comes an irresistibly hilarious tale featuring one unforgettable (and unusual!) hero. Created by an evil sorcerer, Dragon Dog spends his days terrifying anything that crosses his path until an adorable lamb shows him there's room for both his fierce side and his fluffy side. Packed with wonderfully expressive illustrations, this is a read-aloud children will ask for again and again.
(On sale: 9/1/2026)
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Dr. Seuss How the Grinch Stole Christmas According to Max
Buy from:The beloved story of the Grinch's transformation is cleverly retold through the eyes of Max, his faithful and long-suffering dog. With wit and a fresh perspective, this fun twist on the holiday classic is a wonderful addition to Christmas book collections and a great conversation starter for comparing it to the original story.
(On sale: 9/1/2026)
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Good Morning Crayons
Buy from:The endearing Crayons from the bestselling The Day the Crayons Quit series are back, and this time, they're ready to start their day. Well, some of them are! While a few Crayons jump out of bed, eager to begin their adventures, others hit the snooze button. Filled with the humor and charm fans have come to expect, this delightful story reminds readers that no matter how we start our mornings, every day holds fun possibilities.
(On sale: 9/1/2026)
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That You Are Here Is No Small Thing
Buy from:Empowering text and stunning illustrations come together to celebrate the resilience, history, and enduring spirit of Black Americans. Thoughtfully honoring the past while looking ahead with hope, this powerful picture book is inspiring and deeply moving.
(On sale: 9/1/2026)
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Gruffalo Granny
Buy from:The queen of rhyming stories, Julia Donaldson, is back with a much-anticipated new addition to her treasured Gruffalo series. When Gruffalo Granny visits the deep, dark wood, she promises plenty of fun, adventure, and mischief for little readers to enjoy.
(On sale: 9/15/2026)
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The Inactivity Book
Buy from:With life feeling busier than ever, this gentle celebration of slowing down feels like a breath of fresh air. Filled with imagination, whimsy, and quiet wonder, it beautifully reminds readers to pause, appreciate the little moments, and find joy in the present.
(On sale: 9/22/2026)
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Owl Capone
Buy from:Owl Capone is known far and wide for two things: his legendary sandwiches and his generous heart. When his friend Gus steals his secret sauce and opens a rival shop, Owl proves that kindness, integrity, and a truly great sandwich will always outshine sneaky behavior.
(On sale: 9/22/2026)
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Gathering the Light
Buy from:Written by Joy Harjo, the first Native American U.S. Poet Laureate and a member of the Mvskoke Nation, this beautifully poetic picture book celebrates the interconnectedness of people and the natural world. Through lyrical language and breathtaking illustrations, it gently encourages readers to slow down, embrace the circle of life, and find magic in everyday moments.
(On sale: 9/29/2026)
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Night Ride
Buy from:Created entirely from stained glass, this breathtaking picture book is unlike anything I've ever seen. The beautiful, wordless story follows a group of children biking through New York City, celebrating the joy of childhood, the freedom of adventure, and the wonder of the city's iconic landmarks. Every dazzling spread is a masterpiece, making this a book readers will return to again and again.
(On sale: 9/29/2026)
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Bedtime for Us
Buy from:This heartwarming picture book celebrates the quiet magic of bedtime and the special bond between a parent and child. As Jackson and his mom snuggle, imagine, and savor their time together, readers are reminded that some of life's sweetest moments happen at the end of the day. It's the perfect story to cuddle up with and share before bed.
(On sale: 9/29/2026)
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Santa Loves Snow Cones
Buy from:Did you know Santa's suit wasn't always red? This ridiculously funny origin story imagines that Santa's suit was once white until a sleigh accident involving a cherry snow cone changed everything! This festive tale is a fun addition to any Christmas book collection.
(On sale: 10/6/2026)
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The Bakery Dragon and the Giant Cookie
Buy from:Who doesn't love Christmas cookies? Apparently, one very grumpy giant! When Ember the dragon is blown off course while delivering cookies, he unexpectedly finds himself face-to-face with his toughest customer yet. Filled with holiday magic, this amusing story reminds readers that kindness, and sometimes a sweet treat, can go a long way.
(On sale: 10/6/2026)
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The Water Princess Builds a Well
Buy from:In this long-awaited sequel to the bestselling The Water Princess, Princess Gie Gie dreams of bringing clean drinking water closer to her African village so the girls and women no longer have to walk miles each day to collect it. Inspired by the real-life story of supermodel-turned-philanthropist Georgie Badiel, this uplifting picture book celebrates the power of hope, determination, and a community coming together to make a lasting difference.
(On sale: 10/6/2026)
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Do You Like My Pants?
Buy from:A cheetah and a tiger face off over the latest fashion and whether spots or stripes make superior pants in this comical story bursting with bold, eye-catching artwork. Beneath the laughs lies an empowering reminder that style is personal and that we should proudly wear what makes us happy, no matter what anyone else thinks.
(On sale: 10/13/2026)
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Jingle
Buy from:Small in size but big in heart, Jingle dreams of earning a spot on Santa's team of reindeer. Determined to prove she has what it takes, she enters the Reindeer Games and faces a series of festive competitions in hopes of making her Christmas wish come true. This jolly story will keep readers cheering for the smallest reindeer of all.
(On sale: 10/13/2026)
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Melissa and Doug: The Toy Kitchen Cookbook
Buy from:This charming new cookbook takes pretend play to the next level. Filled with sixteen imaginative recipes made entirely with toys, it invites budding chefs to mix a generous helping of creativity, a dash of whimsy, and endless fun. As children follow each playful recipe, they'll also build important skills like sequencing, following directions, and creative thinking, all while letting their imaginations shine.
(On sale: 10/13/2026)
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The Little Book With No Pictures
Buy from:One of the funniest picture books of all time (yes, of all time!) has been brilliantly reimagined for the youngest readers. Filled with silly sounds, interactive fun, and zany moments, this irresistible read-aloud will have babies, toddlers, and grown-ups giggling from beginning to end. I already know it will be one of my favorite gifts for new parents.
(On sale: 10/20/2026)
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EXTRAordinary! A Little EXTRA To Reach Big Dreams
Buy from:Basketball superstar Caitlin Clark shares the mindset that helped her achieve her dreams: always give a little extra. Whether it's putting in extra practice, showing kindness to others, or spending time with family and friends, the flowing rhymes highlight how small, consistent efforts can make a big difference. This inspiring picture book is a wonderful choice for encouraging children to work hard, persevere, and believe in themselves.
(On sale: 11/3/2026)
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Help! I’m Being Eaten By a Bear!
Buy from:Get ready for nonstop giggles with this laugh-out-loud "how-to guide" to surviving a bear encounter! When a man visits Alaska, he ignores all the advice on what to do if he comes face-to-face with a bear, with hilariously disastrous results. Created by the dynamic duo behind Don't Trust Fish, this wildly funny read-aloud is packed with clever humor that children and adults alike will enjoy.
(On sale: 11/3/2026)
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Bear Wakes Up
Buy from:When Bear is unexpectedly awakened from his winter hibernation, he's greeted by a mystical world blanketed in snow. His exploration leads to a series of curious surprises, making this charming winter tale an enchanting read-aloud for the season.
(On sale: 11/10/2026)
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Buffalo Fluffalo and the Very Big Scruffalo
Buy from:The lovable Buffalo Fluffalo returns in a funny and relatable story about sibling squabbles and big emotions. When two buffalo brothers argue over the same tumbleweed, their disagreement quickly escalates until they discover that a heartfelt apology and forgiveness can go a long way. Bursting with rollicking rhymes and expressive illustrations, this engaging read-aloud is perfect for helpsing young children navigate conflicts with siblings and friends.
(On sale: 1/5/2027)
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