2023 is full of new book releases in children's literature, and I can't wait to fill my shelves! I always love finding new books to add to my library and with the new year comes a plethora of children’s books that are sure to capture the imagination and hearts of young readers. Whether you prefer classic favorites, modern stories, or read-aloud classics, there is something new in children’s literature this year for everyone. From adventurous tales of exploration and discovery to heartwarming stories about friendship and family bonds, these books will inspire children with their messages and captivate them with their illustrations. So get ready – here's a look at some of the best kids' books coming out in 2023!
Title: We Are Here
Author: Tami Charles
Release Date: January 3, 2023
Why you will love it: Tami Charles is a former teacher. Her classroom goal was to introduce readers to a variety of diverse books. This is the second book in the series, book one is “All Because You Matter.” “We Are Here” celebrates the triumphs of Black men and women.
Title: An American Story
Author: Kwame Alexander
Release Date: January 3, 2023
Why you will love it: Kwame Alexander always writes books that have a strong impact on readers. An American Story is the story of American slavery told through the voice of a teacher that is teaching students the history of slavery in America. The story shifts from the teacher and student perspective.
Title: The Kindest Red
Author: Ibtihaj Muhammed
Release Date: January 10, 2023
Why you will love it: This is the sequel to the favorite story, “The Proudest Blue.” Written by Olympic medalist, Ibtihaj Muhammed, it is a story of friendship and kindness with positive representation of Muslim females with the main characters of Faizah and Asiya.
Title: Nell Plants a Tree
Author: Anne Wynter
Release Date: January 31, 2023
Why you will love it: This is a beautiful story of family connections and traditions told through the development of a pecan tree. The pecan tree can be used to model symbolism in writing as well as the life cycle of a plant. This will be a new favorite and can be shared for Earth Day or at any time of year.
Title: Once Upon a Book
Author: Grace Lin
Release Date: February 7, 2023
Why you will love it: This book from Grace Lynn and Kate Messner is full of beautiful illustrations that will have you and your students in awe. The story celebrates reading, books, and the power of your imagination. Your students will love visualizing as you read aloud.
Title: 9 Kilometers
Author: Claudio Aguilera
Release Date: February 28, 2023
Why you will love it: This story of perseverance and resilience will be a great discussion starter with your students. The right to education, social inequalities, and geographic locations are all at the forefront of this powerful story. There are opportunities for lessons with math, maps, and social studies as well.
Title: When Things Aren't Going Right, Go Left
Author: Marc Colagiovanni & Peter Reynolds
Release Date: March 7, 2023
Why you will love it: Peter Reynolds always has a special message with any project he is a part of and you will love the message portrayed in the story with first time author Marc Colagiovanni too. This is their first collaboration but they will publish a second book in this series too. It tells the story of finding your own way when things may not go as you expected.
Title: How to Write a Poem
Author: Kwame Alexander
Release Date: April 4, 2023
Why you will love it: Another one from Kwame Alexander that is sure to be a new favorite! I love reading “How to Read a Book” as a mentor text in reading workshop and “How to Write a Poem” will soon be an all time favorite during Poetry Month too. You can use as a companion to “How to Read a Story,” as a mentor text for introducing poetry and descriptive language and as a read aloud just to enjoy the poetic rhythm and beautiful illustrations.
Title: The One and Only Ruby
Author: Katherine Applegate
Release Date: May 2, 2023
Why you will love it: The third story in “The One and Only” series picks up with Ruby's story. If you loved Ivan and Bob, you are sure to love Ruby too. This is a great book to use as a whole class read aloud as well as when you are discussing personification.
Title: Big
Author: Vashti Harrison
Release Date: May 2, 2023
Why you will love it: From the author of the “Little Leaders” series, “Big” is a story that promotes body positivity while also sparking a discussion about the power of words. This is Vashti Harrison's first picture book and is filled with the same message portrayed by all of the leaders she has written of in her series: love and acceptance.
Want a peek at even more new releases coming soon? Click here to find a list of some of my favorites...
With so many amazing new books being released this year, I know you and your students will love checking out each of these new titles. Enjoy!
