Welcome to our monthly roundup of new picture book releases! As teachers, we’re always on the lookout for fresh titles to engage our students and enhance our lessons. This June brings an exceptional collection of new picture books spanning various themes from friendship and creativity to global perspectives and mindfulness. I’ve handpicked these ten titles that I believe would make wonderful additions to your classroom library or read aloud collection. Let’s explore what’s hitting the shelves this month!
New Books June 2025
The Bear and the Hare and the Fair by Em Lynas
From the bestselling creator of “The Cat and the Rat and the Hat,” this hilarious rhyming story explores friendship and compromise as Bear and Hare navigate the challenges of finding fair rides they both enjoy. Some rides swirl and twirl while others bump and thump, creating the perfect backdrop for discussions about finding middle ground with friends who have different preferences. This playful book offers an engaging way to talk about negotiation and friendship with your students.
As the World Goes By by Jonny Lambert
When Buttons the dog spots a beautiful blue butterfly, he’s determined to share this wonder with everyone he meets—but in the bustle of the busy street and chatter of the café, no one seems to notice. This thoughtful story celebrates finding stillness in our busy world and appreciating life’s little wonders. Perfect for ages 3-7, it’s an excellent addition to mindfulness practices in your classroom.
The Day the Crayons Made Friends by Drew Daywalt
The beloved crayons from “The Day the Crayons Quit” are back, but this time they’ve ventured beyond the crayon box to make friends with other toys in Duncan’s room. From Red Crayon driving a firetruck to Blue Crayon meeting a fashion doll to fan-favorite Esteban taming a teddy bear (or “wild beast”), this hilarious new adventure is guaranteed to have your students giggling. Your class will love revisiting these familiar characters in their newest escapade.
First Day Around the World by Ibi Zoboi
From award-winning author Ibi Zoboi comes this lyrical exploration of what the first day of school looks like for children across every continent. Students will discover how children in Nigeria eat warm akara for breakfast, how Polish students unwrap lunches of kluski, and how Argentinian classrooms use sing-song memory games to learn each other’s names. This beautiful book makes an excellent addition to back-to-school preparations or geography units.
Island Storm by Brian Floca and Sydney Smith
Caldecott Medalist Brian Floca and award-winning illustrator Sydney Smith combine their talents to create this thrilling sensory experience of a powerful island storm. Two siblings bear witness to the steady start, thrilling apex, and gentle aftermath of the storm, feeling the wind and hearing the branches bounce together. This multi-sensory text provides an excellent resource for weather units, descriptive writing lessons, or helping students process weather-related fears.
Marianne the Maker by Kelly Corrigan and Claire Corrigan Lichty
Marianne’s life is filled with schedules, structure, and soccer, but there’s one problem—she’s a maker who needs weekend time to scheme, dream, and create! This delightful rhyming story follows Marianne’s not-so-great attempt to skip practice so she can work on her masterpiece. Featuring gorgeous collage-style illustrations filled with hidden gems, this book celebrates creativity and will inspire your classroom makers.
We Carry the Sun by Tae Keller
Newbery Medalist Tae Keller’s debut picture book traces humanity’s relationship with our most precious resource—the sun—from ancient south-facing villages to modern solar innovations. This lyrical, informative text explores the history of solar power while calling young readers to imagine a brighter, cleaner future. Paired with Rachel Wada’s radiant illustrations, this makes an outstanding addition to units on energy, sustainability, or natural resources.
The Wild Robot on the Island by Peter Brown
Peter Brown brings his bestselling middle-grade novel to picture book format with this gorgeous full-color adaptation of “The Wild Robot.” When Roz the robot washes up on an island, she must learn from the animal inhabitants to adapt to her natural surroundings, gradually finding a sense of home in this unfamiliar environment. This accessible version brings the beloved story to younger students or provides a beautiful companion for classes that have read the novel.
Your Crown Shines: For Ketanji Brown Jackson and You by Jessica Care Moore
Based on Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s historic appointment to the Supreme Court, this poetic picture book follows a young girl who dreams of changing the world despite obstacles in her path. Featuring luminous illustrations by award-winning artist Dare Coulter, this celebration of trailblazing women serves as an inspiring reminder that every student’s crown shines brightly. This powerful book is perfect for discussions about perseverance, justice, and breaking barriers.
In the Wild by Zadie Smith and Nick Laird
The judo-suit-wearing guinea pig Maud returns in this warm, endearing story about conquering new experiences and enjoying the outdoors. Both Maud and her owner Kit feel nervous about venturing into the great wild, but with bravery and a few signature moves, they’ll explore new worlds and make new friends. This charming celebration of being yourself makes a wonderful addition to units on courage, self-acceptance, or outdoor adventures.
These ten new releases offer something for every classroom need—from exploring friendship and compromise to celebrating creativity and diversity. As you plan for the coming school year or look to refresh your current read aloud collection, consider how these titles might spark meaningful conversations and connections with your students. Remember, you can find links to all these books below, and I’ve posted images of the covers on my website at thecolorfulapple.com. Which of these new June releases are you most excited to share with your students? Let me know in the comments below!
