CBC Favorites Awards 2026

Annual favorites chosen by children, teachers, and librarians from books submitted by publishers.

2026 CBC Favorites AwardsSee the original list

Selections565

Published byChildren's Book Council

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Librarian Favorites — K–2nd Grade

25 of 75 selections on this pageContinued from page 7

Cover of Grumpy Ghost Upstairs, The

Grumpy Ghost Upstairs, TheMamiko Shiotani, illustrated by Mamiko ShiotaniA grumpy little ghost makes a new friend in this wryly funny, spooky-but-cute picture book with striking illustrations reminiscent of Brian Selznick.A little ghost lives in the attic of a big house.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Heave Ho

Heave HoSally Anne Garland, illustrated by Sally Anne GarlandCub wakes up with a lot of big feelings...so big that there is no space inside him for anything else, or any of his friends at school. During recess, Cub stomps off and swings angrily from the branch of a tree.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Hello, Tobi!

Hello, Tobi!Andrea Cáceres, illustrated by Andrea CáceresThe families—and dogs—Tobi meets at the park come in all sorts of shapes and colors and sizes, but this affable pup likes them all.Every day, Tobi goes for walks with his family.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Here Is a Book: A Picture Book

Here Is a Book: A Picture BookElisha Cooper, illustrated by Elisha CooperA love letter to books, showing how many elements and people contribute to making something beautiful, from Caldecott honoree Elisha CooperMultiple starred reviews: "An…Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of How To Reach the Moon

How To Reach the MoonNicolás Schuff, illustrated by Ana Sender, Lawrence SchimelAn Outstanding International Book (USBBY)A CCBC Choices Title for 2026Emilio and Abuelo: two adventurers off to see the moon!Emilio loves spending vacations out in…Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of I Rock My Hair: Pretty and Protected by the CROWN Act

I Rock My Hair: Pretty and Protected by the CROWN ActAngel Tate, illustrated by Angel TateA young girl celebrates her right under laws such as the CROWN Act to style her hair in any way she sees fit in this empowering tribute to the unique and special ways that people can rock their hair.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of I Said No: A Kid-to-Kid Guide to Keeping Private Parts Private

I Said No: A Kid-to-Kid Guide to Keeping Private Parts PrivateKimberly King, illustrated by Susan SzecsiArmed with accurate information, your child will be better prepared to spot "red flag" feelings and behaviors.” ―Betsy Kanarowski, PhD, LCSW, Chief Clinical Officer, SapreaLibrarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Luna and the Case of the Missing Mooncakes

Luna and the Case of the Missing MooncakesNatasha Yim, illustrated by Violet KimCelebrate diversity, math, and the power of storytelling!A math picture book series for preschoolers and kindergarteners with relatable stories and part of little kids’ everyday experience.Someone in the family is stealing mooncakes!Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Max and Chaffy: Welcome to Animal Island

Max and Chaffy: Welcome to Animal IslandJamie Smart, illustrated by Jamie SmartThe Boggle family has just arrived on Animal Island, and Max can’t wait to find out all there is to discover!Max Boggle loves finding things. He loves putting them back where they belong even better!Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Miya Wears Orange

Miya Wears OrangeWanda John-Kehewin, illustrated by Erika Rodriguez MedinaEgoff Children's Literature Prize for Hopeless in Hope), is a beautifully illustrated children’s picture book that gently explores the complex feelings a young girl experiences as she learns the history of residential schools.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Pencil

PencilHye-Eun Kim, illustrated by Hye-Eun KimThis wordless picture book traces a pencil from forest to factory to store and into the hands of a child whose drawing returns it to an imagined forest.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Piccolo

PiccoloDan Yaccarino, illustrated by Dan YaccarinoEnter the endearing world of Piccolo, a problem-solver whose optimism, boundless enthusiasm, and love of gelato inspires his animal friend community. Piccolo the stylish shrew is a list maker.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Rainy Day for Tortas Fritas

Rainy Day for Tortas FritasLau Moraiti, illustrated by Lau MoraitiNow a Children's Book Council LIBRARIAN FAVORITES 2026A rainy day in Uruguay means one thing―delicious tortas fritas!Join a loving family as they gather in the kitchen to prepare this traditional fried sweet flatbread, turning a gloomy day into a heartwarming celebration.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Ramon Fellini the Dog Detective

Ramon Fellini the Dog DetectiveGuilherme Karsten, illustrated by Guilherme KarstenA hilarious introduction to the mystery genre, starring a boy, his fish, and a whiskered detective in disguise. A little boy’s aquarium has been attacked, and his poor fish is terrified!Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Ready, Set, Mango!

Ready, Set, Mango!Tamla T. Young, illustrated by Raz LatifTwo competitive cousins are in for a surprise as they fight to find the perfect fruitOn an island vacation with their auntie, cousins Tee and Dee set out to find mangoes to make smoothies.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Recess: A Picture Book

Recess: A Picture BookLane Smith, illustrated by Lane SmithSchool is where you go to learn. But sometimes you need a little break from all the fun.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeATOS 2.3AR interest Lower Grades (LG K-3)View book details

Cover of Ruby René Always Gets Her Way

Ruby René Always Gets Her WayAshley Iman, illustrated by Gladys JoseA sequel to Ruby René Had So Much to Say that explores the importance of listening, making new friends, and teamwork.Ruby René had so much to say...so she got her own segment on the school's morning announcements.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Signs of Friendship

Signs of FriendshipAnnie Silvestro, illustrated by Ziyue ChenAs they grew, their friendship grew, too. And when they realized Sonia struggled to hear, they learned sign language together.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Slightly Spooky Tale of Fox and Mole, The

Slightly Spooky Tale of Fox and Mole, TheCecilia Heikkilä, illustrated by Cecilia HeikkiläIf Edgar Allan Poe wrote for children! Fox and Mole find a spooky story spilling into their lives in this autumnal tale for older picture-book readers.Fox and Mole live alone on a headland, in two houses, side by side.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Snow Day for Amos McGee, A

Snow Day for Amos McGee, APhil C. Stead, illustrated by Erin E. SteadWhen snow in the forecast never arrives, he decides to head home and hope it comes another day. But when overnight a surprise snowfall blankets the town in fluffy white, what shall his lovable squad of animals do?Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Some Days I'm the Wind

Some Days I'm the WindRebecca Gardyn Levington, illustrated by Dinara MirtalipovaAnd just like the wind, or the sun or the sea, On some days I’m some ways, but all days, I’m me. Some days you may feel like a cyclone, a whirl, dizzy, giddy, wild.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of When You're a Boy

When You're a BoyBlake Nuto, illustrated by Blake NutoWhen you’re a boy, you’re told how to be like the white-roaring oceans. But I’ve learned the fierceness of flowers, the glory of color, and the beauty of dreaming.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Why Do Okapis Look So Funny?: A Book about Rainforest Animals

Why Do Okapis Look So Funny?: A Book about Rainforest AnimalsJack Beard, illustrated by Jayri GomezA nonfiction picture book answers questions about the adaptations and behaviors of rainforest animals, including sloths, capybaras, gorillas, lizards, okapis, and macaws.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Wôpanâak Seasons: Seeqan, Neepun, Keepun, Pup8n

Wôpanâak Seasons: Seeqan, Neepun, Keepun, Pup8nCarrie Anne Vanderhoop, illustrated by Mangeshig Pawis-SteckleyIn Wôpanâak Seasons a young Wampanoag child takes readers on a seasonal journey through Aquinnah, on Neope, known as Martha’s Vineyard. Spring brings the return of wildlife; summer brings beach adventures and clambakes; fall is for harvesting cranberries and making jams; and winter features cozy gatherings and heartfelt traditions.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Cover of Zebra & Yak Backwards Alphabet

Zebra & Yak Backwards AlphabetPaul Friedrich, illustrated by Paul FriedrichA hilarious and unexpected backward alphabet picture book. Are you ready to start the alphabet?Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details

Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th Grade

35 of 40 selections on this pageContinues on page 9

Cover of All the Blues in the Sky

Rank 1All the Blues in the SkyRenée WatsonAll the Blues in the Sky is a 2025 children's novel written in prose and free verse by American author Renée Watson.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile NPATOS 5.0View book details

Cover of Catty Corner Lands on Her Feet

Rank 2Catty Corner Lands on Her FeetJulie Murphy, illustrated by Eve FarbJulie Murphy, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Dumplin’, brings her signature warm positivity and message of empowerment to her chapter book debut: a series about a big-hearted girl who is half-human, half-cat.Introducing Catty!Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Dino Poet: A Graphic Novel

Rank 3Dino Poet: A Graphic NovelTom Angleberger, illustrated by Tom AnglebergerFrom New York Times bestselling author Tom Angleberger, creator of the Origami Yoda series, comes a hilarious young graphic novel adventure through the land of the dinosaurs.A Junior Library Guild Selection***STARRED REVIEW*** "A standout title pulling double duty as a compelling graphic novel and a poetry mentor text.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeATOS 2.1AR interest Lower Grades (LG K-3)View book details

Cover of Sketch

Rank 4SketchJacques Goldstyn, illustrated by Jacques GoldstynHis imagination runs wild and he is more rambunctious and creative than most kids his age. As the doctors say, he’s "not drawn like other people.”In a perfectly ordered town, where everything has its place and everyone behaves properly at all times, Sketch stands out.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest, The

Rank 5Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest, TheAubrey HartmanThe Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest pairs Clare, a fox who guides animal souls to the afterlife, with the stubborn badger Gingersnipes on a dangerous mission that may change both of their destinies.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeATOS 5.3AR interest MG 4–8View book details

Cover of Speechless: A Graphic Novel

Rank 6Speechless: A Graphic NovelAron Nels Steinke, illustrated by Aron Nels SteinkeHer former best friend, Chloe, has become her worst enemy, and Mira's only solace is making videos for her secret stop-motion animation channel. But when Chloe's mom has to travel for a family emergency, Mira is horrified to learn that her family has volunteered to let Chloe stay with them.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Goat Magic

Rank 7Goat MagicKate Wheeler, illustrated by Kate WheelerHer “goat magic” feels common compared to the sorcery taught in the city’s prestigious magic schools, which are off-limits to her. Meanwhile, Princess Alya, known as the “Ordinary Princess” and heir to the kingdom of Capeya, doubts her own royal potential.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Cake Problem: Equivalent and Simplified Fractions, The

Rank 8Cake Problem: Equivalent and Simplified Fractions, TheBill Wise, illustrated by Davilyn LynchFarmer Ed brings Sheep, Chicken, and Goat a chocolate cake. But hold on; it’s not a circle or rectangle, like most cakes.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Sign Up for Adventure!: The Doodling Duo vs. Spaghetti Monster

Rank 9Sign Up for Adventure!: The Doodling Duo vs. Spaghetti MonsterLavanya Karthik, illustrated by Lavanya KarthikA CBC Favorites Pick-Teacher & Librarian Lists (2026)Finding ways to understand each other when words-and languages-aren't easy Adil is the new kid in Neel's class and Neel thinks he's pretty cool!Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Return of the Terns: How Scientists Are Saving Island Birds

Rank 10Return of the Terns: How Scientists Are Saving Island BirdsJennifer Keats Curtis and Kim Abplanalp, illustrated by Phyllis SaroffDiscover the inspiring, true story of how scientists are helping Common Terns. Scientists in a partnership between Maryland Coastal Bays Program, Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Program, and Audubon Mid-Atlantic are building huge rafts to serve as nesting areas for these birds whose nesting habitats have disappeared due to climate change and erosion.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Rise Up!: Powerful Protests in American History

Rank 11Rise Up!: Powerful Protests in American HistoryRachel C. Katz, illustrated by Sophie BassThis nonfiction picture book presents 25 moments of protest and resistance in United States history, from the Boston Tea Party to the Capitol Crawl. A timeline, map, and background notes provide additional context.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Around the World on 80 Horses

Rank 12Around the World on 80 HorsesJill Newton, illustrated by Jill NewtonThis fact-filled tour introduces 80 horse and pony breeds from around the world, including the ways they have adapted to different environments and influenced human cultures. It also includes notable real and mythical horses.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Astrologica: An Encyclopedia of Myths and Legends From the Planets, Stars and Skies

Rank 13Astrologica: An Encyclopedia of Myths and Legends From the Planets, Stars and SkiesSuki Ferguson, illustrated by Camelia PhamThis illustrated survey explores astronomy, astrology, and celestial folklore across cultures. It covers constellations, zodiac systems, planetary deities, navigation, calendars, and traditions from regions around the world.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Bunns Rabbit

Rank 14Bunns RabbitAlan BarillaroWhen Bunns is born with small but perfectly functional rabbit ears, the warren is abuzz with auguries. Surely such short ears spell bad luck for the community.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of What Happened Then

Rank 15What Happened ThenErin Soderberg DowningIn this alternating narrative by bestselling author Erin Soderberg Downing, a decades-old family secret is buried within the sand, water, and woods... waiting for cousins Avery and Jax to find it and uncover the truth.Avery is a firecracker.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Bad Badger

Bad BadgerMaryrose Wood, illustrated by Giulia GhiginiBad Badger is a young middle-grade story about Septimus, a solitary badger who sets out to find his missing gull friend and discovers that understanding himself is part of staying true to who he is.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 660LATOS 4.3View book details

Cover of Caring

CaringKobi YamadaThis empowering children’s book is a celebration of the impact we can have when we choose to care—and how even the smallest act of kindness can grow into something extraordinary.Have you ever wondered if what you do matters?This is the story of leaning in, digging deep, believing it’s possible, and making the effort.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Change is Gonna Come, A

Change is Gonna Come, ASam Cooke, illustrated by Nikkolas SmithOh, and just like the river, I've been a-runnin' ever since. It's been a long, a long time coming, but I know a change gonna come.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Chip and Chatti Save the Farm

Chip and Chatti Save the FarmHeidi Paul, illustrated by Heidi Paul, interiors; Karen Vermeulen, cover artSo when they meet Twinkle, a sly little mouse who grants wishes, they know just what to ask for: a way out into the countryside! Soon their wish is granted, and this funny trio—joined by a traveling man named Bingo who can speak their language—is off to the great unknown.With the help of friendly forest creatures—from deer and…Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Duck and Moose: Moose's Bad Hair Day!

Duck and Moose: Moose's Bad Hair Day!Kirk Reedstrom, illustrated by Kirk ReedstromQuiet-loving Moose's life is turned upside down by free-wheeling Duck. The two will need to put their differences aside if they're ever going to be neighbors...or friends!Moose is having a bad hair day, so Duck offers to give his pal a haircut.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Einstein the Penguin

Einstein the PenguinIona Rangeley, illustrated by David TazzymanIn the classic tradition of Paddington, comes this wonderfully witty, heartwarmingly humorous madcap adventure series for reading aloud or reading alone. Quirky illustrations perfectly capture the mood of the stories and the endearing, eccentric, and unforgettable characters.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Grind: An Ode on Skateboarding

Grind: An Ode on SkateboardingCarole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Néstor Omar García LópezTry an ollie; take to the air! His artistic vision complements Weatherford’s adrenaline-fueled commentary of the sport, from the execution of daring tricks to the serene contemplation while cruising down the street.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Growing Home

Growing HomeBeth Ferry, illustrated by Terry Fan, Eric FanA team of talking plants, a spider, and a goldfish uses newfound magic to defend the Tupper family from a greedy intruder.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeATOS 4.3AR interest Lower Grades (LG K-3)View book details

Cover of I Am We: How Crows Come Together to Survive

I Am We: How Crows Come Together to SurviveLeslie Barnard Booth, illustrated by Alexandra FinkeldeyThe communal life of roosting crows shows how cooperation helps animals survive and communities thrive.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile AD510LATOS 2.3View book details

Cover of Kwesi and Nana Ruby Learn to Swim

Kwesi and Nana Ruby Learn to SwimKobina Commeh, illustrated by Bárbara QuintinoKwesi and Nana Ruby face their shared fear of water together, drawing strength from the West African legend of Mami Wata and from their family history.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Let's Get Spooky

Let's Get SpookyŠtěpánka Sekaninová, illustrated by Lukáš FigeľA Halloween Seek-and-Find Adventure!Get ready for some spine-tingling fun with Let’s Get Spooky! This fun Halloween seek-and-find book takes brave young explorers on a thrilling journey through six spooktacular haunted locations.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Lighthouse Keeper, The

Lighthouse Keeper, TheEugenio Fernández Vázquez; translated by Kit Maude, illustrated by Mariana Villanueva SegoviaFortunately for us, out in the middle of the sea lives the lighthouse keeper, a remarkable person who dedicates his life to saving the lost and shipwrecked. You'd think he'd be lonely out there all on his own, but he has a secret friend who visits him when he least expects and most needs it.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Magic Tree House Fact Tracker Graphic Novel: Dinosaurs

Magic Tree House Fact Tracker Graphic Novel: DinosaursMary Pope Osborne; adapted by Jenny Laird, illustrated by Jomike TejidoWhen Jack and Annie got back from their adventure in Magic Tree House #1: Dinosaurs Before Dark, they had lots of questions about dinosaurs. Learn more along with them as they track the facts about these amazing prehistoric creatures--available for the first time ever in a nonfiction graphic novel format!Filled with up-to-date information and fun tidbits from Jack…Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Miss Camper: A Graphic Novel

Miss Camper: A Graphic NovelKat Fajardo, illustrated by Kat FajardoShe’s looking forward to hiking, archery, and making comics in the fresh air. She’s especially excited about LARPing (live-action role-playing) and can’t wait for the freedom of being away from home.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Mythology Land: 12 Classic Legends Reimagined

Mythology Land: 12 Classic Legends ReimaginedClaire Cock-Starkey, illustrated by Pham Quang PhucMythology Land opens the gates to the magical lands of all the characters and creatures of myth. These expertly retold stories are perfect for bedtime, and each tale is followed by an exquisitely illustrated map of its world.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli, The

Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli, TheKarina Yan GlaserIn dual timelines—731 Chang’an and 1931 New York Chinatown—Han Yu and Luli leave familiar lives to save their families from plague and financial crisis. Their adventures are linked by danger, art, and a touch of magic.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeATOS 6.0AR interest Middle Grades (MG 4-8)View book details

Cover of Not Extinct: The Przewalski's Horse Returns from Extinct in the Wild

Not Extinct: The Przewalski's Horse Returns from Extinct in the WildDarcy Pattison...optimistic tone...realistically presenting both successes and setbacks. But in 1959, the international community came together to fight to save the species.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Passover on Everest

Passover on EverestRachelle Burk, illustrated by Craig OrbackThe two things Nikki loves most are huge family holiday gatherings and huge mountains. This year, she is forced to choose between them.In this true story about kindness across cultures, Jewish mother-daughter mountain climbing team Cheryl and Nikki Bart experience a seder like no other―seder on Mt.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Seabird

SeabirdMichelle KadarusmanConfined to the family home in preparation for an arranged marriage, Kartini’s desire for freedom ignites as she fights to have a say in the decisions that shape her life.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details

Cover of Smurfs: Who is That Smurf?, The

Smurfs: Who is That Smurf?, TheTebo, illustrated by TeboAnd how come none of the other Smurfs smurf him?It's the start of a new smurfing adventure by French master cartoonist, Tebo, featuring Smurfette, Brainy Smurf, Hefty Smurf and Papa Smurf.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details