Every year, I am astonished what authors & illustrators are capable of and bring into the world. It's such a wonderful time to be at the library during this prolific and rich time for children's literature! If you are looking for a few new stories to enjoy, look no further! Here are some recently published and newly added books to our collection that truly warmed my heart.
This is an adorable story about César, who desperately wants to borrow his little sister Gabi’s brand-new cerulean crayon — a color she doesn’t even know the name for! The fact that the word cerulean was in the title caught my eye because I remember being mystified by the very same hue when Little Gabi makes César play a yes-or-no guessing game, kind of like 20 Questions, just to figure out which one is cerulean. And the surprise that César creates with the crayon is so sweet. Read and find out! There's also some lovely back matter for grownups that dives into the story's STEAM themes such as math, color words (including some in Spanish!), and deductive reasoning.
Ameena is thrilled for her auntie’s garden wedding, and when she puts on her new salwar kameez, she feels like absolute royalty. But when her neighbor friend innocently mistakes her outfit for pajamas, she hesitates — should she change? In her worrying about all of this, Poor Ameena tears a small hole in her outfit, and her mom suggests she wear her favorite dress instead. But when her cousin appears at the wedding donned in a gorgeous salwar kameez, she wishes she had hers, too! In a surprise twist, Ameena ends up back in her traditional garment, feeling more fabulous than ever. Through all of this, she learns that the layers she wears are part of who she is, and that her heritage is something to be proud of. The Beautiful Layers of Me carries a powerful message that all children can connect with. We've all felt shame and confusion about who we are, and Ameena is a wonderful example of how to transform that and embrace all aspects of your identity.
Charlotte’s moccasins don’t fit anymore, so she and her mom visit her grandma to make a new pair. Charlotte's Grandma patiently teaches her tracing, cutting, beading, sewing. It's fascinating getting to be involved in the process, every step of the way and see how pieces of leather are transformed into the most beautiful and unique custom beaded moccasins! This book features warm and vibrant illustrations by Rhael McGregor that radiate the deep bond between Charlotte and her Grandmother. At the end of the story, Moudahi writes, "Charlotte can't wait to grow out of her new moccasins". I felt so comforted by this story and can't wait for you to read it, too.
Pippo is a sweater-wearing, routine-loving mole. His days are so cozy and predictable — until suddenly, they’re not! Strange purple plants start dangling from his ceiling, his furniture wanders off, and even his little tree stump home sprouts legs! At first, Pippo is very thrown off, but he goes on an unexpected journey and discovers he has more courage inside than he thought. It’s a whimsical, strange, and deeply reassuring story about embracing change, even when life gets a little peculiar! Author-illustrator Wen's beautiful illustrations are so captivating. At the end of the story, Pippo is sipping on his favorite herbal tea, when he realizes his house has taken flight. I so hope that there will be more in the Pippo series, because I'm on the edge of my seat (or should I say stump)!
What are your favorite Children's books from 2025? Wishing everyone a safe & warm winter, full of stories and magic! ✨
