The Heart of Our Home, written and illustrated by Janelle Washington. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2026, $27.99 ages 4 and up

 

"When my brothers and I get in trouble, 
the kitchen table is where
we have serious talks. 
It's uncomfortable to 
               make mistakes, 
              but deep down, 
                    we know we learn from them. 
                    And sometimes, we even admit
                    that Dad is right."

There have been other picture books this past year or two about the importance of the kitchen table in family stories. I know I have shared a few with readers. It is the heart of this home, where the family gathers each morning to enjoy the first meal of the day, warm conversation, and a hearty send-off to a brand-new day. 

At the end of the school day, the child who narrates the story and her brothers use it for games played together, baking, and making a mess. Too soon, it's dinnertime and her job is to set the table while Mom prepares what they will eat tonight. When the meal is ready and everyone is seated, it's the perfect time to talk about the day's events. There is always much to say. It is the perfect spot for thinking, studying, creating. Every day the table centers what is happening with the family, from Friday fish fries to serious talks about behavior and how to learn from the mistakes we make. 

"It's where laughter fills the air, 
presents are unwrapped, and 
cake is enjoyed, turning every 
gathering into something 
memorable."

Readers are told 'the art for this book was rendered by hand cutting black paper using a craft knife. Colored tissue and handmade paper was used for additional layers.' It very effectively shows the many memories that the author holds close to her heart from times spent at the family table. Intense colors and textures add detail for those listening. Finally, archival photographs of the her family offer context for the warmth shared here.

I think I have asked these questions before. What are some of your memories of times spent sitting at your kitchen table? Do you still have meals together there? 

The Selfish Sister, written by David Sedaris and illustrated by Bob Staake. A Toon Book, Astra. Penguin Random House, 2026. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"Don't try to ride 
       her bright green trike. 
It's hers alone, 
       the un-kind tyke. 

It sits 

      un-used, 

            ignored, 

               forsaken

not peddled yet, no long rides taken."

I have always enjoyed David Sedaris' humor! I have read many of his adult books, and was happy to learn that he has turned his talents to writing for children. The first was Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk (Little, Brown, 2011). Look for it at the library; you won't be disappointed. I told readers about Pretty Ugly (TOON Books, 2024) previously, and next up is this book about a sister who can only properly be described as both SELFISH and GREEDY! She is trouble at every turn ... taking on anyone who gets in the way of her belief that the world (and all in it) is her oyster. 

 In cheeky rhymes, the author is able to show readers just exactly what greediness in its purest form is. There is not a thing that doesn't belong to her and she makes sure that everyone knows it, especially her small and quite terrified brother. No amount of trying keeps her from taking everything in sight: cork, tuning fork. bed, towel, chair, stuffed animals. Then, she moves outside. 

Finally, in a fit of anger, her father shouts "Enough! When she continues in her selfish ways, he offers a deal. She refuses. When she has finally claimed ALL to be hers, she finds herself without only one thing: friends. So much for her self-centered ways! 

Bob Staake fills the spreads with digitally colored pencil and ink drawings that are sure to please young readers. He leaves plenty of white space in order to keep attention on her antics and expressions. Green skin and one tooth make her a real charmer. Get ready to giggle, and then read it again. 
                                                                            

Grandma, Cho Cho and Me, words by Morgan Christie and pictures by Paulica Santos. Groundwood, 2026. $21.99 ages 3 and up

"Grandma sends me to pick some callaloo
from the garden. I cut handfuls of the 
deep-green leaves before we chop and saute
them with chili flakes, garlic and a Scotch 
bonnet for kick."

It doesn't always happen that a family gathers together for a big breakfast; more often, that happens at dinner time. The young girl in this story is helping her grandmother prepare a delicious early morning meal for the whole family. In doing so, Grandma explains why breakfast is so important. As they work together to decide on the menu and to get what they need for its preparation, Grandma explains that many families do the same. Often the work of the day begins early in the morning, and does not end until moonshine leads the workers back home. That breakfast helps thems get through their long days.   

As the two talk, they work at the recipes handed down for generations. Ackee, saltfish and fried dumplings are first on the agenda, followed by some of the granddaughter's favorite sides: callaloo, stewed cho cho with spices and herbs. All the while they talk about the lessons learned from their cultural heritage in Jamaica. She explains that many people from the Caribbean eat big breakfasts; it is the way they start each new day. 

There are many reasons for big breakfasts. Grandma shares a final thought:

"When we eat breakfasts together, we are reminded,
before we take on the world, that we will always be 
there for each other. That I will always be there for you."

This story is inspired by Morgan Christie's memories as the daughter of Jamaican migrant parents. She is clear that those memories have informed her life, and made her want to write about it in a gentle and loving way. Paulica Santos uses digital mixed media and acrylic paint to showcase the brilliance of the Caribbean colors as she helps readers be a part of the planning and execution of a most delicious family meal.                                                                                          

That is NOT a Dog! Written by Bea Birdsong and illustrated by Charlie Alder. Nancy Paulsen Books, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 3 and up

 

"Ollie was glad to have friends with him
as the sun slipped lower in the sky, 
and he invited them to dinner. 

He was happy they 
didn't see any dogs
along the way. 
Not one."

Everything Ollie had ever heard about dogs terrifies him. Being a cat, it is not a surprise. Is all that he has been told the truth? Ollie thinks so; he chooses friends he knows are not dogs, then stays away from dogs at every opportunity. It's their mean eyes, giant teeth, and loud barks that make him quake with fear. The first quick reaction from young readers will happen when Ollie meets a creature (obviously a dog) with kind eyes and black-and-white fur. Ollie knows immediately it is not a dog; it must be a cow whose dog tag says it's name is Mildred. They spend time together watching the birds, and then walk on. The next animal they meet is described as a hippo named Finchley. 

Their adventure continues through the park where they come upon more dogs that do not meet the criteria Ollie has in his head. I can hear (as you can if you have ever spent time in an early years classroom, or with kids of your own) the laughter and the constant cries to let Ollie know each new friend is really a dog! The happy, action-filled illustrations are consistent in telling a very different story - one that contradicts everything Ollie believes to be true about the dreaded dog. There is no scare in any of them. They are friendly, helpful, and fun. They have a wonderful time together and share a lovely meal. All the while Ollie is delighted to be spending his day with any animal but a DOG!  

Aya Has Never Seen A Bear, written by Geretchimeg Blackcrane and illustrated by Jiu'er. Translated by Paul Qiao. Adapted by Helen Mixter. Aldana Libros, Greystone Kids. 2026. $25.95 ages 6 and up

 

"Aya understands that this garbage must be 
completely burned. If the bears get used to 
it, they might be attracted to the human world. 
That would be dangerous for them and for humans.

This is how the Oroqen share the forest with 
bears. Respect them, be in awe of them, and 
keep away from them."

I cannot imagine any child not wanting to know more about this book from their first glance. How can you possibly not want to know more about the bear that graces its cover? 

The opening page explains:

This book takes place among the Oroqen, an ethnic group 
who live in the forests and mountains of Greater and 
Lesser Khingan, in northern China. They are hunters. 

Aya is sound asleep when Grandma calls for her to get up. Grandpa is back with food for breakfast and plans for the day. He wants to take his granddaughter with him in a search for bears. Aya has been longing for such an adventure; she has never seen a bear. The two mount their horses, leaving the noisy dogs behind them. Grandpa has always been Aya's guide to the beauty of the woodlands and all it hides. 

As they ride, they take note of all that is happening in their natural surroundings: changing colors, trees, migrating birds, a hare family enjoying the sunshine, and roe deer watching them pass by. As owl passes too closely, causing Aya and Grandpa to bend their heads and hurry away. Moving on to the wetlands, they notice that the fox family they have been watching all summer now has grown kits who are ready for their own home. Many animals share the land with the Oroqen people. 

A river valley is next. They leave the horses there and walk on to the pine woods where the bears live. Once settled in the thick bushes, they sit silently ... waiting! A mother bear and her three cubs eventually come out of forest, leaving Aya breathless. They watch as the bears play together, and finally rest. Later, when Grandpa whistles, the bears quickly depart. Before they head home, the two gather the garbage left behind by forest visitors, and light it all on fire. Grandpa does not want the bears to become accustomed to the presence of humans. 

Once the fire has been extinguished, the two head back the way they came, gathering berries along the way, a gift from the autumn forest. The bears will find no scent of humans, and will then search to find their own food as they prepare for a long winter's sleep. 

A final few pages offer further information about the Oroqen, and the way their lives have changed through the years. 

In keeping with the patience required to catch her first glimpse of a bear, the text moves clearly and quietly as it describes the shared adventure. Warm and absolutely stunning natural surroundings are shown in artwork done with mineral pigments. It is a lovely book!                                                                             

Our Gracie Aunt, written by Jacqueline Woodson and illustrated by Monica Mikai. Nacy Paulsen Books, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Sometimes we helped our 
Gracie aunt cook. 

She let us throw spaghetti 
against the wall. If it stuck, 
it was done. 

On Saturday nights, she made popcorn
and let us watch scary movies with her."

Beebee and her younger brother are alone in their house when Miss Lee comes to the door asking to speak to their mother. Readers quickly learn that Beebee has a worry about foster care, as their mom is often away for different periods of time. When Miss Lee returns, Beebee does open the door and Miss Lee explains she is taking them to be with their mother's sister. 

Johnson's first-person narration is full of questions about what will happen to the two of them. As they drive away from their home, Miss Lee explains she has talked with their aunt. She is their mother's sister. It is a very quiet ride. Upon arrival, Johnson becomes quite excited at how things look. 

"I couldn't believe it either. Her yard was big and had a tire swing
hanging from a tree, And pretty flowers everywhere."

Their Gracie aunt is delighted to welcome them and does everything she can do to make them comfortable. Beebee is not as amenable to the situation and attention during the day, or at bedtime. Their aunt answers the questions they have, explaining to Beebee that she and their mother had an argument once that left them not speaking to each other. 

It is not an easy transition; it takes time for the children to accept their new reality. The love shared begins a healing process that leads to their having a visit with their mama, who tells them how much she loves them and explains that she cannot take care of them right now. Their excitement as they return to their Gracie aunt leaves them in a hopeful place until the family can be reunited. 

Tender and moving, with warm digital artwork that adds understanding for the circumstances the children face, and the constant love that surrounds them whatever family might look like. 

A Fly In The Chai, written by Zenia Wadhwani and illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"I stop for a pistachio kulfi before we get to 
Mr. Sharma's chai stall and Nanu gets a big 
steaming cup. He leans in, about to take a sip. 

"STOP! THERE'S A FLY IN 
      YOUR CHAI!""

Nanu and his granddaughter are visiting the market where Nanu has many, many friends. Each merchant is honored with a greeting in their own dialect as the two move toward Mr. Sharma's chai stall. Nanu loves a big steaming cup. As he leans in to take a sip, his granddaughter shouts out a warning about a fly in his chai. 

Despite encouragement, the fly is going nowhere. Onlookers each have a suggestion for getting rid of it. They also have opinions about why the fly is even there. Only then does the fly have a say, offering her name and the fact that her love for chai is very strong. 

"I love the smell of cardamom. 
I love to watch the steam rise. 
I love the cozy way it makes me feel. 
I love EVERYTHING about chai!"  

Nanu shares his own love for chai and its many wonders. An argument ensues; the fly angrily returns to the cup of chai. Nanu is now also furious, and does what any sane person would do. He drinks it down in a huge gulp. Does that work? I wonder. 

Bright bold colors offer a look at a traditional Indian bazaar with great characters and many items of interest. Final pages provide a pronunciation guide for the varied greetings, a glossary to explain any unfamiliar cultural words, and a recipe for Zenia's family chai recipe.