Refresh Your Children's Book Library
Five Suggestions to Get You Started
November 12, 2025
Everyone has that one book that, as a child, they could not get enough of. Whether the characters, the writing style, or the vivid illustrations were the main appeal, there was something magical about that book that made them want to read it repeatedly. With thousands of new children’s books released each year, finding a book that speaks to you can seem daunting, but the payoff of discovering a gem can be immeasurable.
How do you find quality material? Wolf Trap’s early childhood specialists advise their teaching artists to look for books that have garnered local, regional, or national recognition, but to also consider books that share experiences from a variety of communities and bridge genres. Here are a few books that have recently captured the attention of Wolf Trap’s early childhood specialists:
Authors: Katie Venit (Author), Kenard Pak (Illustrator)
With beautiful graphics by award-winning illustrator Kenard Pak, this story follows children exploring the world around them and discovering different ways to create spaces for play, imagination, and just for being themselves.
Publisher: Viking, New York, New York, 2025
Authors: Angela Dalton (Author), Jestenia Southerland (Illustrator)
A lively book as we enter a time of the year with many family get-togethers and holidays. This story is inspired by the rich tradition of African American reunions. Ruby helps different members of her family prepare the foods they’re sharing, while trying to figure out a “signature dish” of her own.
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, New York, 2021
Author: Christopher Denise (Author, Illustrator)
This is a story of two important little birds. Knight Owl is the established captain of the night watch and initially dismissive of newcomer Early Bird’s energetic and talkative style. He comes to appreciate her bravery and unique qualities when they face a big challenge together!
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company, New York, NY, 2024
Authors: Richard Van Camp (Author), Liz Kemp (Editor), Tea & Bannock (Collective)
A board book filled with pictures of family and children from a collective of indigenous women who are photographers. Richard Van Camp, a beloved First Nations author, shares words that celebrate community, collaboration, and gratitude to share with children and adults of all ages.
Publisher: Orca Book Publishers, Victoria, British Columbia, 2019
Chooch Helped (2025 Caldecott Medal Award Winner)
Authors: Andrea L. Rogers (Author), Rebecca Lee Kunz
Chooch just celebrated his second birthday, and his big sister finds him very frustrating. Everyone tells him that he’s helping with things, but she doesn’t always see it that way. A universal story of siblings making space for each other -- following the day-to-day of a Cherokee family immersing themselves in cultural traditions.
Publisher: Levine Querido, Montclair, 2024
If it’s been more than a year since you’ve reviewed your class or home library, it’s a nice time of the year to take a trip to the bookstore or your local library. Find an author, illustrator, or subject matter that is novel to you–you may just discover a new classic!
Find more resources on Wolf Trap Institute's Digital Resource Library.