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Picture books we're excited about in 2026

With the National Year of Reading upon us, there are so many books to get excited about in 2026! Here are just a few of our favourite new releases so far. Keep an eye out for them in your local bookshop or library!

Melanie Mitchell My First Unicorn

This sturdy board book features colourful illustrations and simple text – perfect for toddlers! Wee ones will love noticing the detail in each picture, with lots to spark discussion. Release date: 12th Feb 2026

Raissa Figueroa Ruth Forman Do I Love You? Yes I Do!

A truly beautiful book with poetic prose and calming spreads of natural landscapes. Featuring the love between a mother and daughter, this would be the perfect book for bedtime. Out now!

Evie Snow Feeling Crabby

Hector the hermit crab needs a new shell, but all he can find on the beach is rubbish! A fun and engaging read for wee ones, who will love to help Hector find a new home. (Plus, the perfect introduction to the importance of keeping our coasts clean!) Out now!

Matthew Scott Ruth Symons I'm a Digger

Explore different construction vehicles and the different sounds they make with this fun, interesting book! The shaped pages are engaging and easy for little ones to play with. Out now!

Emma Dodd Very Special You

A heartwarming tale of the bond between parent and child, this would make a cosy bedtime read. The spring-themed illustrations are gorgeous too, with gold detailing adding a pretty touch. Out now!

Ruth Symons Seb Braun Submarine

With plenty of fun sliding tabs, your toddler will love this interactive book! There are also lots of interesting illustration details for them to explore. Out now!

Ruth Symons Susie Hammer Match the Colour

This is a truly unique board book: reading and a fun game, all in one! Toddlers will love matching the chunky coloured circles to the right picture – and the handy attached ribbons mean it’s impossible to lose the pieces. Out now!

Emma Chichester Clark The Good Deed Dogs

Bodger, Billy and Betty are three adorable dogs who just want to do good deeds but keep unleashing chaos instead! Your little one will love the gorgeous illustrations, with plenty of detail to look at together. Out now!