New Children's Books Released in June 2026

Not every book resonates with me; some simply aren't my taste. However, even those that don’t appeal to me often have the potential to enchant a young reader, sparking a lifelong love for reading.

This capability to inspire young readers is the unique charm of children’s literature. It's vital for children to have access to diverse reading materials at schools, libraries, homes, and community spaces. For anyone looking to nurture new readers, here are ten notable children’s books being published this month:

**Mimi May, This is What a Slug Does**

Illustrated by Aniek Bartels

Post Wave, June 23

Ages 3-5

In this entertaining nonfiction picture book, a slug named Simon highlights his species' unusual traits, such as using slime for protection and locating a mate with tentacles. Aniek Bartels’s illustrations provide Simon with much personality, including a stylish blue hat.

**Casey Lyall, Whale, That Was Unexpected**

Illustrated by Kathryn Durst

Tundra, June 30

Ages 3-7

This story features Maude, a spirited girl whose adventures at sea take a turn when she's swallowed by a whale. With humor and colorful artwork, children will enjoy this whimsical tale as they follow Maude's journey alongside other sea creatures.

**Bonsoir Lune, Watermelon Pool**

Translated by Frances Cha

Dial, June 2

Ages 4-8

An enormous watermelon splits open, transforming into a community pool for the summer. This delightful narrative, originally published in Korea, combines surreal storytelling and vibrant illustrations.

**Daniel Nayeri, The Sweetest of Lemons**

Illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell

Levine Querido, June 2

Ages 4-8

Set in Iran, this beautifully illustrated picture book follows a young narrator's trip with his family. The tale combines rich imagery and storytelling as they visit friends and learn about a magical lemon saga.

**Kathryn D. Sullivan and Michael J. Rosen, How to Dive to the Deepest Place on Earth**

Illustrated by Michael J. Rosen

MIT Kids Press, June 30

Ages 7-9

This autobiographical account by astronaut Kathryn D. Sullivan includes her experiences exploring the depths of the Mariana Trench, packed with infographics and illustrations explaining oceanic wonders.

**Laurent Galandon, Journey to Tomioka**

Translated by Anne and Owen Smith

Illustrated by Michaël Crouzat

First Second, June 9

Ages 8-12

This graphic novel narrates the story of siblings Osamu and Akiko as they journey to return their grandmother's ashes to their family farm in Tomioka, near the site of the 2011 Fukushima disaster, blending real and surreal elements.

**Niki Smith, Midsummer Sisters**

Graphix, June 2

Ages 9-12

Stepsisters Kenzie and Quinn face the potential of separation as their parents consider divorce. Their grandmother’s invitation to the Outer Banks leads them to explore the region while grappling with their relationships and emotions.

**Aida Salazar, Stream**

Scholastic, June 2

Ages 10 and up

In this verse novel, protagonists Elio and Celi from Salazar's earlier works find their summer plans disrupted by family decisions that send them to Mexico for a screen-free experience, leading to a meaningful friendship.

**Israel Moya, Monarchs in the Wild**

Tu Books, June 2

Ages 13-17

Set in 1990s California, this debut novel follows seventeen-year-old Cal, who discovers the body of a classmate, Nora. The ensuing investigation forces Cal to face his reputation and his path to adulthood.

**DeAndra Davis, The Lovers, the Liars, and Me**

Atheneum, June 23

Ages 14 and up

In this coming-of-age story, high school valedictorian Jaliya visits Jamaica, reconnecting with her childhood crush while confronting complex issues about her estranged mother, sexuality, and cultural identity.