Picture Books That'll Lift Your Spirits!

• Saving the Sun by EMMA PEARL. After a sweltering day, the ocean sparkles and twinkles so invitingly that the sun decides to take a dip in the ocean itself. When the sun sinks and loses its fire, Luna and Poppa’s vacation goes dark. Luna knows the sun needs their help, but it’s a big job to do all on their own. With the helps of dolphins, monkeys, and more, can Luna find a way to return the sun to its rightful place, and set it ablaze once more?

• I Am My Ancestors' Wildest Dreams by TANISIA MOORE and illustrated by ROBERT PAUL JR. In this electrifying anthem to Black boy joy and pride, a young child discovers his place in a distinguished lineage. As he meets ten exceptional Black men — historical and contemporary figures who have paved the way for his own future success — he internalizes their greatness. Just like them, he can reach his dreams!

• You Do You-nicorn by ERIN VANESSA. A sweet, funny story about inclusivity and staying true to yourself. A gender-fluid child shows their friends that they can be and do whatever they want and feel like — whether it's playing the digeridoo-nicorn, painting a baboon-icorn, or changing their name to Ruth-icorn! Remember: Only YOU know how to do you!

• I'm From  illustrated by OGE MORA. From early morning wakeups to homemade pancakes, raucous bus rides to schoolyard games, from family games to bedtime rituals. This gorgeous picture book is an invitation into the vivid world of one small boy, a poetic account of all the people and places and things that shape who he is and where he's from!