Most Empowering Picture Books of 2023

by Amy Hest ; illustrated by Philip C. Stead

A sparkling reminder that nothing is as powerful as a child’s imagination. Full review >

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by Lalena Fisher ; illustrated by Lalena Fisher

A loving tale inventively and informatively told. Full review >

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by Tami Charles ; illustrated by Bryan Collier

A powerful narrative about Black yesterdays that have built the foundation for all our tomorrows. Full review >

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by Hanoch Piven & Shira Hecht-Koller ; illustrated by Hanoch Piven

An amazing, joyous achievement. Full review >

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by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow ; illustrated by Hatem Aly

An empowering and important tale of bravery. Full review >

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by Christian Trimmer ; illustrated by J Yang

A heartwarming story that’s ultimately about far more than hair. Full review >

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by Nikkolas Smith ; illustrated by Nikkolas Smith

A powerful read-aloud to share and discuss. Full review >

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by Vashti Harrison ; illustrated by Vashti Harrison

A healing balm with the power to make the world a bit kinder. Full review >

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by Breanna Carzoo ; illustrated by Breanna Carzoo

A stopper for readers ready…and set to…GO! Full review >

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by Carole Lindstrom ; illustrated by Steph Littlebird

A deeply moving and inspiring celebration of long hair and its significance in Indigenous cultures. Full review >

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by Molli Jackson Ehlert ; illustrated by Lorian Tu

Honest, loving, and powerful. Full review >

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by Jack Wong ; illustrated by Jack Wong

A gorgeously rendered love letter to swimming and the magical experiences that it can unlock. Full review >

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by Gary R. Gray Jr. ; illustrated by Oge Mora

An origin story for the ages—intimate, poetic, singular, and broadly relatable. Full review >

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by Maya Tatsukawa ; illustrated by Maya Tatsukawa

A sensitive, funny, yet deeply thoughtful exploration of difficult feelings. Full review >

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by A.M. Wild ; illustrated by Kah Yangni

How refreshing to see nonbinary joy so lovingly depicted. Full review >

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