And There Was MusicMarta PantaleoTranslated by Debbie Bibo | How does music make you feel? In this vibrantly illustrated book, we see the best of humanity: creativity, community, and our deep, instrinsic drive towards musical expression.Picture BooksView book detailsNYPL Best Books for Kids 2025
Books chosen each year by New York Public Library staff and grouped into the library's own categories.
Best Books for Kids 2025See the original list
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Published byNew York Public Library
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Picture Books
25 selections
And There Was MusicMarta PantaleoTranslated by Debbie Bibo | How does music make you feel? In this vibrantly illustrated book, we see the best of humanity: creativity, community, and our deep, instrinsic drive towards musical expression.Picture BooksView book details
Another Word for NeighborAngela Pham Krans, illustrated by Thai My PhuongIllustrated by Thai My Phuong | Grumpy old Han isn't happy when a family with young children moves in next door. Their curiosity and compassion chip away at his tough exterior and reveal a sensitive heart, forcing him to reflect on the importance of community and the care we can provide for others.Picture BooksView book details
BeansproutSarah Lynne ReulEvery day, a new seed sprouts in one class's science project. Despite his patient care and attention, one little boy's experiment is not progressing as hypothesized. Will he give in to disappointment or hold out hope for new growth?Picture BooksView book details
Before I Lived HereStacy S. JensenIllustrated by Victo Ngai | Have you ever wondered what (and who) came before you? A young boy imagines the history of the land he lives on, spanning decades, centuries, and even millennia.Picture BooksView book details
BrokenX. Fang, illustrated by X. FangTo tell or not to tell? Guilt gnaws at a little girl after she breaks her grandmother's favorite mug and lies about the circumstances. Bold, colored graphite illustrations breathe new life into this relatable ethical dilemma.Picture BooksLexile AD460LATOS 2.0View book details
Cat NapBrian Lies, illustrated by Brian LiesA curious kitten chases a mouse into a Metropolitan Museum of Art poster, unwittingly embarking on a fantastical voyage through art history. With works recreated from the Met’s collections, the author crafts a classic tale of cat and mouse where each page delights the eyes.Picture BooksView book details
Dancing with WaterGwendolyn WallaceIllustrated by Tonya Engel | A child and their grandfather tap into ancestral knowledge to provide a reliable water source for their community. Pollution exacerbates scarcity, generating an urgency to pass down the intuition for water divining to the next generation.Picture BooksView book details
Every Monday MabelJashar Awan, illustrated by Jashar AwanIs it Monday yet? Some might think Mabel’s Monday morning routine is mundane, but they just wouldn’t get it. Experience the simple joys of childhood in this buoyant story about finding the magic of little moments.Picture BooksATOS 1.9AR interest LG K-3View book details
EverybellyThao LamEverybody has a story... and a belly. Maddie's day at the community pool, rendered in textured collage, celebrates her neighbors and their unique bodies.Picture BooksView book details
Faith Takes the TrainKesi Augustine, illustrated by MokshiniIllustrated by Mokshini | In this quintessential New York story, Faith's subway journey empowers her to practice social awareness and kindness. Immersive illustrations evoke the sensory symphony of the subway.Picture BooksView book details
Filo's ButterfliesLitea FuataIllustrated by Myo Yim | It's time for Filo's dance at his cousin's wedding and the butterflies in his tummy are flying absolutely out of control! Can Filo learn to harness his butterflies for good, or will he be carried off with them?Picture BooksView book details
FireworksMatthew Burgess, illustrated by Cátia ChienIllustrated by Cátia Chien | POP! Break through the haze of a hot summer night with these illuminating illustrations and grab a front row seat to a spectacular fireworks display! With dynamic text and a special foldout spread, this picture book is a love song to a New York City summer.Picture BooksATOS 3.5AR interest LG K-3View book details
Hilwa's GiftsSafa Suleiman, illustrated by Anait SemirdzhyanIllustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan | A Palestinian family reunites to harvest the gifts that Hilwa provides. This precious olive tree feeds every generation, roots Ali in his heritage, and fosters the joy of sharing with others.Picture BooksView book details
The InterpreterOlivia Abtahi, illustrated by Monica ArnaldoIllustrated by Monica Arnaldo | Cecilia has a very important job: translating between Spanish and English for her parents. While she uses her voice to speak for her family, she shies away from expressing what she wants and needs. Will she be able to find balance between being an interpreter and being a kid?Picture BooksLexile 530LATOS 2.4View book details
Nearly Exactly Almost Like MeJennifer BradburyIllustrated by Pearl AuYeung | In the face of questions about their bond, a protective older brother lists all the things he has in common with his little brother. He knows that family is about love, not appearances.Picture BooksView book details
NightsongSally Soweol Han, illustrated by Sally Soweol HanIn this auditory odyssey, a young boy seeks refuge in the nature sounds of a rural roadside when he and his mother find themselves stranded after a day in the big city.Picture BooksView book details
Nunu and the SeaIsabella KungNunu channels her big feelings into a mystical sea meditation, where the lulls and swells ground her in serenity.Picture BooksView book details
Old Blue Is My HomeLita JudgeOld Blue reliably shelters a girl and her family as they move from place to place. Cozy watercolors evoke a sense of security, resilience, and home in this ode to the family van.Picture BooksView book details
A Place for UsJames E. Ransome, illustrated by James E. RansomeSpend an evening with a boy and his mother in this heartfelt story detailing the hidden hardships faced by some New Yorkers. This wordless picture book illustrates that home is not a physical place but a sense of love and togetherness.Picture BooksView book details
Shark GirlKate Beaton, illustrated by Kate BeatonEnsnared in a fishing net, Shark Girl's sense of justice for fish and people alike leads her to hatch a clever escape plan. With playful illustrations that tell as much of the story as the words, Shark Girl is a layered, mischievous tale sure to make readers laugh.Picture BooksATOS 3.7AR interest Lower Grades (LG K-3)View book details
Sleep Here, Wake ThereCaio ZeroWhen a little boy wakes up in a different bed than the one he fell asleep in, he sets out to solve the mystery! This book is a lovely celebration of family and the joy that children share with a variety of caregivers.Picture BooksView book details
We Go SlowMariahadessa Ekere Tallie, illustrated by Aaron BeckerIllustrated by Aaron Becker | After the morning rush, a young girl and her grandfather are the only ones left in the house. They take their day slow and savor all the sights and delights of their New York City neighborhood. Luscious watercolor illustrations capture the fading light of day's end.Picture BooksView book details
We Leap TogetherChristopher Silas Neal, illustrated by Christopher Silas NealA mother and child travel through New York City while a whale and her calf swim offshore. They may not look alike, but they have much in common. A lovely read-aloud with simple text, this side-by-side narrative of two species will warm your heart.Picture BooksLexile AD370LATOS 2.6View book details
What if We...Vivienne ChangIllustrated by Eugenia Yoh | It's summer break, and siblings Max and Mimi lounge around the house trying to figure out what to do. After going to the park, the zoo, and the pool, their imagination takes over. In the end, they might just discover that spending time together is the most fun activity of all.Picture BooksView book details
Worm Makes a SandwichBrianne FarleyHungry? Worm wants to make you a sandwich! From table scraps to compost and seedlings to harvest, follow the process of tending a garden to find out how you can grow your own food. Vibrant illustrations and a silly worm narrator bring joy to this lighthearted story.Picture BooksView book detailsYoung Readers
10 selections
Amina Banana and the Formula for FriendshipShifa Saltagi Safadi, illustrated by Aaliya JaleelIllustrated by Aaliya Jaleel | Amina is eager to make friends after moving to Indiana from Syria. She's sure her formula will lead to success, but it turns out friendships are not as simple as following a recipe.Young ReadersView book details
Brianna Banana, Helper of the DayLana ButtonIllustrated by Suharu Ogawa | Brianna's dream is to be her classroom's helper of the day. With the assistance of a new girl at school, she might just be able to channel her boundless energy and achieve her goal.Young ReadersView book details
Freedom Celebration: A Juneteenth PartyAngela DaltonIllustrated by Keisha Morris | You're invited to the Morris Family Juneteenth Cookout! Join Gloria and her family as they celebrate freedom and the rich history behind this important holiday.Young ReadersView book details
I DanceDiana RañolaIllustrated by Christine Almeda | This joyful story explores the lively world of Philippine folk dance with easy-to-read text and inviting illustrations.Young ReadersView book details
Ratnip: Lost and Found in the CityCam HigginsIllustrated by Allison Steinfeld | He’s not just any rat. He’s a rat on a mission! Discover Ratnip’s world in New York City as he makes friends and foes—and eats lots of delicious food!Young ReadersView book details
Squid in PantsKaz WindnessThese stylish sea creatures speak in simple, silly rhymes and strike fashion gold when they stumble upon the wardrobe of a kid in a boat.Young ReadersView book details
The Summer of the Bone HorsesVirginia Driving Hawk SneveIllustrated by Steph Littlebird | Eddie is sent to stay with his grandparents on the Rosebud Reservation. He overcomes his homesickness and strengthens his bond both with them and with his Indigenous heritage. A warm story of connection brought to life in full color illustrations.Young ReadersView book details
The Truth About the Tooth FairyLeah CypessIllustrated by Sarah Lynne Reul | Miriam is the youngest in her Orthodox Jewish family, but she’s done being treated like a baby. Losing a tooth provides the perfect opportunity: Only babies believe in the tooth fairy, so she’ll use her sleuthing skills to prove the tooth fairy isn't real—or is she?Young ReadersView book details
The Unlikely Aventuras of Ramón and El CucuyDonna Barba HigueraIllustrated by Juliana Perdomo | Cucuy is the littlest boogeyman assigned to frighten misbehaving children, but Ramón isn't even scared of him—he's too busy worrying about his first day of school! This unlikely duo will have to learn to help each other in this silly illustrated chapter book.Young ReadersView book details
We Dig FossilsAlliah L. AgostiniIllustrated by Joelle Murray | Everyone in Ava's family has found a fossil except for her! Our tenacious paleontologist keeps digging in this STEM-focused early reader.Young ReadersView book detailsMiddle Grade
25 selections
All the Blues in the SkyRenée WatsonSage's thirteenth birthday is memorable for all the wrong reasons—it's the day her best friend dies. Her path to self-forgiveness and acceptance is told sensitively in this Harlem-based novel in verse.Middle GradeLexile NPATOS 5.0View book details
Benny on the CaseWesley KingSome people in Benny's small town don't understand difference—whether it's his Mosaic Down Syndrome or new student Salma's Tunisian heritage. Together, Benny and Salma must uncover a plot threatening their home and community.Middle GradeATOS 4.6AR interest Middle Grades (MG 4-8)View book details
Billions to BurnTaylor BanksWhen Amadeus Jones goes missing, his grandson Zeus will need to reunite with his former best friends to rescue him. Using a Langston Hughes poem as their guide, the four kids are sent on a cross-country treasure hunt, potentially uncovering a dangerous secret along the way.Middle GradeView book details
Dad Rock Dragon QuestJoan ReardonWhen Zadie, her sister, and her mom's worrywart boyfriend go to stay with her daredevil park ranger dad, they don't expect to get swept up in a battle with poachers. Join them on the roadtrip of a lifetime to save her dad's best friend—a dragon!Middle GradeView book details
El NiñoPam Muñoz RyanKai's sister Cali disappeared while surfing two years ago, and since then swimming isn't what it used to be. The magic of El Niño brings haunting dreams of a mythical Amazonian queen and give Kai hope that all is not lost.Middle GradeLexile 740LATOS 5.3View book details
The Freedom SeekerRuchira GuptaSimi and her mother's harrowing escape from Hindu Nationalist violence separates them in different detention centers on the Mexican-American border. Can Simi find a way to save herself and her new friends from the detention center and to reunite with her mother?Middle GradeView book details
The GrimmelingsRachael KingWhat do a missing classmate, a mysterious black stallion, a charming new stranger, and the disappearance of Ella's father have in common? Discover the dark magic and family curse behind it all in this eerie folk horror tale.Middle GradeView book details
The Ink WitchSteph CherrywellBecca has to save her mother and stop her plotting aunt from taking over the family coven. With the help of a talking tarantula and an ice troll, Becca uncovers a whole magical world beyond the boring motel where she lives—and maybe some newfound powers of her own.Middle GradeView book details
Junius Leak and the Spiraling Vortex of DoomAllan WolfWhen young waterbody aficionado Junius Leak is sent to stay in his eccentric uncle's houseboat, he has no idea what's in store. This visit to the bayou comes with pirate treasure, family secrets, a feisty gray cat, and a boating trip like no other!Middle GradeView book details
KickturnBrie SpanglerFor Lindy, the shine of living on a bus and traveling around national parks with her influencer parents has worn off. When the bus breaks down, she finds new friends who share her love of skateboarding. But when it's time to get back on the road, will her friendships survive?Middle GradeView book details
The Last Ember: The Aerimander Chronicles, Book 1Lily Berlin DoddAspiring chemist Eva unwittingly comes into possession of a rare treasure. Orphan Dusty is given a mysterious assignment. When their paths cross, both accidentally become embroiled in a power struggle between the secretive Thieves' Union and an unsavory government official.Middle GradeView book details
The Last ResortErin Entrada KellyLila's a bit overdramatic, and when a near-death experience on a trip to her deceased Grandpa Clem's inn leaves her seeing ghosts, she's sure no one will believe her. When her grandpa's ghost says he was murdered, it's up to her and her newfound skills to find the killer.Middle GradeATOS 4.3AR interest Middle Grades (MG 4-8)View book details
The Midwatch Institute for Wayward GirlsJudith Rossell, illustrated by Judith RossellWhen Maggie is left at an orphanage, she isn’t expecting adventure. But that’s exactly what she finds at the Institute, where she’s trained to escape alligators, pick locks, and use morse code in order to fight crime in this illustrated escapade.Middle GradeView book details
The Nine Moons of Han Yu and LuliKarina Yan GlaserHan Yu, in 731 AD China, and Luli, in 1931 New York City, set out on parallel missions to save their families in this story full of Chinese food and culture.Middle GradeATOS 6.0AR interest Middle Grades (MG 4-8)View book details
Ollie in BetweenJess CallansGrowing up is hard enough, but for Ollie it means navigating shifting friendships, family expectations, and the complexities of gender—all without their mom. Can Ollie learn to find their own voice and identity through it all?Middle GradeView book details
Please Pay AttentionJamie SumnerSixth grader Bea knows there are always extra obstacles as a wheelchair user. Left to fend for herself during a school shooting, she must find a way to channel her rage and her grief in the aftermath. This timely story is told in compelling verse.Middle GradeView book details
The Queen Bees of Tybee CountyKyle Casey ChuDerrick loves playing on his basketball team with his best friend JJ. He also secretly loves lip-synching in the mirror and putting blue nail polish on his toes. Could a summer visiting his eccentric grandma help him finally express his true self to the world?Middle GradeView book details
Return to SenderVera Brosgol, illustrated by Vera BrosgolWhen Oliver and his mom move into a Manhattan apartment, they inherit a taxidermized cat named Raymond, a sinister neighbor, and… a magical, wish-granting mail slot? Consequences and hilarity ensue in this illustrated adventure.Middle GradeView book details
Scarlet MorningND Stevenson, illustrated by ND StevensonWhen orphans Viola and Wilmur cut a deal with a mysterious ship's captain, it leads to a swashbuckling adventure through haunted lands beyond their desolate island. Their dystopian world is brought to life through atmospheric illustrations.Middle GradeATOS 6.1View book details
A Sea of Lemon Trees: The Corrido of Roberto AlvarezMaría Dolores ÁguilaIn 1931, Roberto Alvarez courageously testifies in court to stop the segregation of students of Mexican descent and white students in his San Diego school. This verse novel adapts the true story of the Lemon Grove Incident with passion and heart.Middle GradeLexile 800LATOS 5.1View book details
The Secret of HoneycakeKimberly Newton FuscoAfter her mother's death, Hurricane takes solace in her home by the sea, her dog Brody-Bear, and her beloved sister Bronte. But when Bronte falls ill, Hurricane must leave them all behind to live with her fussy Aunt Claire. It feels like the end, but could it be a new beginning?Middle GradeView book details
A Skeleton in the ClosetClaire Hatcher-SmithMizzy is tired of being underestimated because of her Down syndrome, so when the chance to solve a decades old family mystery presents itself, she's ready to take it on. Twists abound in this funny and compelling murder mystery!Middle GradeView book details
Smoke & MirrorsRosalyn RansawAndy is stuck fixing an old house as punishment for a crime he didn't commit. What Andy doesn't know is that he's about to uncover new clues to a decades-old cold case involving magic, murder, and mistaken identity.Middle GradeView book details
Unboxing LibbySteph CherrywellSelf-aware AI-teen robots on Mars! An evil corporation! A Halloween party with real zombies?! What could possibly go wrong? Unbox this dystopian and hilarious tale of self-discovery and empowerment.Middle GradeView book details
The Undead Fox of Deadwood ForestAubrey HartmanClare the Fox's solitary existence ushering souls to the Afterlife is upturned by the arrival of a strange visitor. Stuck with this new houseguest, he embarks on a poignant-yet-humorous journey in this fable of self-discovery and connection.Middle GradeATOS 5.3AR interest MG 4–8View book details