Madison Library District
Choice Awards
Picture Books NOMINEES FOR 2026
Voting begins August 18.
Find all the nominees below.
Nominees
Spin Saves the Day
by Steve Behling
When Spin accidentally puts his own arm to sleep with his arachno-sting, will he find a new way to stop Electro and save the …
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Cats in Construction Hats
by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen
Six colorful cats work together to build a house…with just a little help (and mischief) from some tiny rat friends. Little readers will delight in following along with …
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Bluey: Fairytale
by Joe Brumm
Dad tells Bluey and Bingo a story set in a wild place call the eighties. When Dad was little, he …
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Ride the Waves!
by Alli Brydon
Lilo’s big sister Nani teaches Lilo and Stitch how to surf so they can spend time with their ‘ohana and win the town surfing competition! But can …
Read the full synopsis
Take a Breath,
Big Red Monster!
by Ed Emberley
Big Red Monster is angry! Turning the pages reveals colorful illustrations of different parts of the cranky creature’s face—from two mean …
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Attack of the Octopus
by Eric Geron
When an evil villain unleashes a rampaging octopus to destroy Hot Wheels City, the racers jump in their fast cars and Accept the …
Read the full synopsis
Bruce Saves the Planet
by Ryan T. Higgins
Bruce was a bear who liked to be by himself. But that wasn’t easy for him, as mother to four geese and …
Read the full synopsis
Safe Splashing!
by Haley Hoffman
Daniel Tiger is so excited when he finds out Trolley can now travel on land and in the water! Daniel, Dad Tiger, and Daniel’s friends …
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Daddy Dinosaur Rescue
by Matt Huntley
Join Chase, Marshall, and the rest of the PAW Patrol as they journey to the Dino Wilds for a Father’s Day picnic. But when a daddy dinosaur and …
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Graduation Day in Adventure Bay
by Matt Huntley
It’s graduation day in Adventure Bay, and singing star Luke Stars is set to perform–if he can make it there! Join Chase, Skye, Marshall, and …
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Rescue Wings
by Matt Huntley
The Princess of Barkingburg is coming to Adventure Bay for the opening of the new airport. But when Sweetie, the mischievous …
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Dinosaur Discovery!
by Hollis James
When Rubble and his friends uncover a dinosaur skeleton, they realize Builder Cove needs a museum. But as they make more …
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Buffalo Fluffalo and Puffalo
by Bess Kalb
Every day, Buffalo Fluffalo goes about his usual routine. He munches all the grass he can eat, frolics and rollicks with …
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I Don’t Wanna Hibernate!
by Anna Ouchchy
As snow gently blankets the land, the Groundhogs prepare for their long, snuggly hibernation. But …
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Bluey: Copycat
by Penguin Young Readers Group
Bluey is copying everything Dad does. She copies his stretches and all his goofy moves—when suddenly, they find an …
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Bluey: The Decider
by Penguin Young Readers Group
There’s a big rugby game tonight, and Lucky’s dad, Lucky, and Chucky are coming over to the Heeler house to watch it. But Chucky’s …
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You Can’t Catch Me!
by Catherine Rayner
Dexter the fox is frustrated when his owl and hare friends keep winning their chasing game—until he remembers that he has a …
Read the full synopsis
A Special Spring!
by Cat Reynolds
The Disney princesses enjoy springtime in this new storybook! Join Ariel, Tiana, Mulan, Cinderella, and the other princesses as they …
Read the full synopsis
Little Blue Truck and Racer Red
by Alice Schertle
Little Blue Truck and good friend Toad are out for a drive when a flash of red whizzes by—then whizzes back to …
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That’s Not Funny, David!
by David Shannon
David is determined to get laughs out of everyone — even from those who might not find his antics amusing! From cannonballs into the …
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Don’t Trust Fish
by Neil Sharpson
Why, dear reader, must you NEVER EVER trust fish? 1) They spend all their time in the water where we can’t see them. 2) Some are as big as…
Read the full synopsis
Dragons Can’t Eat Snow Cones
by Amanda Sobotka
Who can blame a dragon for wanting a cool and refreshing snow cone? They come in so many different flavors and colors! Sadly, as …
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Smelly Peggy
by Helen Stephens
Meet Peggy—a very naughty dog who gets into a lot of trouble. Some of the things she loves doing: leaping on the bed in the morning and …
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Fox, Fox, and More Fox
by Corey R. Tabor
Get ready for Fox, Fox, and more Fox! The three funny stories in this picture book starring Corey R. Tabor’s award-winning Fox along with his …
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If I Built a Town
by Chris Van Dusen
“My town will be swanky! My town will be swell! My town will be prized as the best place to dwell,” says Jack to the mayor one day as …
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Who’s Afraid of the Easter Bunny?
by Brooke Vitale
Easter is here, and all the toys in Bonnie’s room are excited. . . except for Rex. Why? Because he’s afraid of the Easter bunny! Join the …
Read the full synopsis
How to Catch an Invisible Bad Guy
by Alice Walstead
The How to Catch kids are having fun at a carnival when an Invisible Bad Guy falls out of the movie they are watching! Convinced that the …
Read the full synopsis
Buzzing Beehive!
by Christy Webster
Now younger Minecraft fans who are just starting to play the game can learn all about the friendly bee. In this full-color Mobs of …
Read the full synopsis
Dino-Birthday
by Lisa Wheeler
Dinosaurs celebrate their birthdays with a variety of different parties, presents, and games depending on the …
Read the full synopsis
Will the Pigeon Graduate?
by Mo Willems
The Pigeon had better graduate! He did the work! He paid attention to the little details! He overcame some BIG obstacles! The Pigeon’s got …
Read the full synopsis
Spin Saves the Day by Steve Behling
When Spin accidentally puts his own arm to sleep with his arachno-sting, will he find a new way to stop Electro and save the day?
This colorful 24-page storybook is sure to thrill young Spidey fans as they immerse themselves into the amazing adventures of Team Spidey.
part of the Spidey and His Amazing Friends series
Cats in Construction Hats by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen
Yellow cat. Green hat.
Dig this. Clear that.
Green cat. Orange hat.
Mix this. Pour that.
Six colorful cats work together to build a house…with just a little help (and mischief) from some tiny rat friends. Little readers will delight in following along with the simple rhyming text, big construction vehicles, and the failures and triumphs that come with a big project! Bulldozers, cement trucks, excavators, and even a giant crane feature in this story, but each read through also offers smaller details to discover!
Bluey: Fairytale by Joe Brumm
Dad tells Bluey and Bingo a story set in a wild place call the eighties. When Dad was little, he was jinxed by his older brother, Rad, after he was being mean to his younger brother, Stripe. Will Dad break his curse, or will he never speak again? Read along to find out!
part of the Bluey series
Ride the Waves! by Alli Brydon
Surf’s up with Lilo & Stitch in this storybook based on the beloved Disney film!
Lilo’s big sister Nani teaches Lilo and Stitch how to surf so they can spend time with their ‘ohana and win the town surfing competition! But can Lilo overcome her fears and ride the waves? This sweet and fun storybook about family and learning new things is perfect for Disney Lilo & Stitch fans ages 3 to 7!
Take a Breath, Big Red Monster! by Ed Emberley
Take a Breath, Big Red Monster! shows kids how to calm down with more than ten interactive peekaboo pages.
Big Red Monster is angry! Turning the pages reveals colorful illustrations of different parts of the cranky creature’s face—from two mean green eyes to a big thundery loud mouth—as he gets increasingly upset. We can help him calm down by taking deep breaths—in and out—until even his yellow-and-orange firecracker hair disappears.
Attack of the Octopus by Eric Geron
When an evil villain unleashes a rampaging octopus to destroy Hot Wheels City, the racers jump in their fast cars and Accept the Challenge to save the day!
Inspired by Hot Wheels, the number-one selling toy in the world, Hot Wheels Let’s Race is an action-packed comedy series for kids, and follows the newest generation of racers: Coop, Spark, Mac, Brights, Axle, and Sidecar as they attend a racing camp that always puts the pedal to the metal. Through mind-blowing races, extreme stunt contests, and thrill-seeking challenges, Hot Wheels Let’s Race is a show that kids and the whole family can enjoy.
part of the Hot Wheels Let’s Race series
Bruce Saves the Planet by Ryan T. Higgins
From unwitting mother to unwitting . . . environmental activist?
Bruce was a bear who liked to be by himself. But that wasn’t easy for him, as mother to four geese and three mice. Luckily, he could enjoy a day of peace and quiet while fishing.
But his quiet haven is full of beetles stealing his lunch. And protestors loudly trying to save the forest from the construction of a factory. Will Bruce and the residents of Soggy Hollow manage to save the planet?
book 9 in the Mother Bruce series
Safe Splashing! by Haley Hoffman
Daniel learns the importance of staying safe in the water in this storybook based on an episode of the show!
Daniel Tiger is so excited when he finds out Trolley can now travel on land and in the water! Daniel, Dad Tiger, and Daniel’s friends prepare to take an extra special trolley ride. Staying safe in the water is very important, so everyone makes sure to wear their life vests and to sit down safely in the boat before they go on the best trolley ride ever!
part of the Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood series
Daddy Dinosaur Rescue by Matt Huntley
Join Chase, Marshall, and the rest of the PAW Patrol as they journey to the Dino Wilds for a Father’s Day picnic. But when a daddy dinosaur and his child are separated, it’s up to the heroic pups and their friends to save the day. Children ages 2 to 5 will love this delightful Little Golden Book. It’s perfect for Father’s Day – or any day.
part of the PAW Patrol series
Graduation Day in Adventure Bay by Matt Huntley
It’s graduation day in Adventure Bay, and singing star Luke Stars is set to perform – if he can make it there! Join Chase, Skye, Marshall, and the other heroic pups as they work together to ensure the day is a success. With teamwork, tools, and PAWsome vehicles, the PAW Patrol pups are always ready to help and protect their community!
part of the PAW Patrol series
Rescue Wings by Matt Huntley
The Princess of Barkingburg is coming to Adventure Bay for the opening of the new airport. But when Sweetie, the mischievous royal pup, causes trouble, Skye and the rest of the PAW Patrol must use their new aircraft to set things right.
part of the PAW Patrol series
Dinosaur Discovery! by Hollis James
When Rubble and his friends uncover a dinosaur skeleton, they realize Builder Cove needs a museum. But as they make more amazing discoveries, their construction project gets bigger and bigger. Children ages 3 to 7 will love this storybook, staring their favorite pups from Builder Cove.
Just down the road from Adventure Bay is Builder Cover, a town where Rubble and his family work together on construction challenges of all kinds. Nickelodeon’s Rubble & Crew is an animated series filled with family, fun, and teamwork.
part of the PAW Patrol series
Buffalo Fluffalo and Puffalo by Bess Kalb
Every day, Buffalo Fluffalo goes about his usual routine. He munches all the grass he can eat, frolics and rollicks with his friends, and at noontime, lies down for a nap in the shade. But one morning, Fluffalo wakes up to a loud wailing cry and, to his surprise, finds a little buffalo named Puffalo with the tiniest, shiniest eyes!
At first, Fluffalo does not like Puffalo. “What does it need?” he huffs in alarm. But Crow wisely explains that Puffalo doesn’t need much—just time to learn and grow. Slowly, Fluffalo watches as Puffalo learns to trip, slip, gallop, and trot. He teaches Puffalo to eat plants and to keep away from red ants. Together, the two take long strolls and snuggle for naps. And even though Puffalo sometimes slows him down, Fluffalo realizes that life is much better with Puffalo by his side.
part of the Buffalo Fluffalo series
I Don’t Wanna Hibernate! by Anna Ouchchy
As snow gently blankets the land, the Groundhogs prepare for their long, snuggly hibernation. But little Tess is wide awake!
Tess’s parents try everything to get her to sleep, but she knows every trick in the book. When Mommy and Daddy fall asleep without her, will Tess be able to stay up all winter? Or will she snore her way through Groundhog Day?
Join Tess in this wintery bedtime story perfect for readers who are wide awake when the rest of their world is sleepy.
Bluey: Copycat by Penguin Young Readers Group
Bluey is copying everything Dad does. She copies his stretches and all his goofy moves—when suddenly, they find an injured bird! Will they be able to help the bird? Read along to find out!
part of the Bluey series
Bluey: The Decider by Penguin Young Readers Group
There’s a big rugby game tonight, and Lucky’s dad, Lucky, and Chucky are coming over to the Heeler house to watch it. But Chucky’s mom is supporting the opposing team. Can Chucky decide whose team he wants to be on? Read along to find out!
part of the Bluey series
You Can’t Catch Me! by Catherine Rayner
Dexter the fox is frustrated when his owl and hare friends keep winning their chasing game—until he remembers that he has a special talent, too.
Dexter the fox loves to play chase with Molly the hare and Olive the owl. But while Molly keeps bounding away on her great big feet and Olive swoops ahead with just a flap of her wings, Dexter simply can’t keep up, try as he might. What are foxes good at?
In the third book of this gently humorous, gorgeously illustrated series exploring young children’s big emotions, award-winning author-illustrator Catherine Rayner brings clever Dexter to the fore as she shows that we all have something important to bring to the game.
part of the Molly, Olive, and Dexter series
A Special Spring! by Cat Reynolds
The Disney princesses enjoy springtime in this new storybook! Join Ariel, Tiana, Mulan, Cinderella, and the other princesses as they dance in April showers, tend to May flowers, and other spring activities.
part of the Disney Princess series
Little Blue Truck and Racer Red by Alice Schertle
Little Blue Truck and good friend Toad are out for a drive when a flash of red whizzes by—then whizzes back to stop and say hi. Sleek and low, Racer Red is made for speed and loves to go fast! When she challenges Blue to a race, Blue knows that win or lose, it’s fun to try! Beep! Beep! Zooooom!
part of the Little Blue Truck series
That’s Not Funny, David! by David Shannon
David is determined to get laughs out of everyone – even from those who might not find his antics amusing! From cannonballs into the pool to slurping his spaghetti to telling funny jokes during class, David is a natural comedian. But David learns that not all of his tricks are funny… like sticking things up his nose! Still, this troublemaker will always have the last laugh and, of course, the enduring love of his mom.
Once again, David Shannon entertains us with young David’s mischievous shenanigans in this lighthearted story that’s sure to leave readers of all ages laughing.
part of the David series
Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson
Why, dear reader, must you NEVER EVER trust fish?
1) They spend all their time in the water where we can’t see them.
2) Some are as big as a bus—that is not okay.
3) We don’t know what they’re teaching in their “schools.”
4) They are likely plotting our doom.
This nature-guide-gone-wrong is a hilarious, off-the-rails exploration of the seemingly innocent animals that live in the water.
Dragons Can’t Eat Snow Cones by Amanda Sobotka
If a dragon wants a snow cone, it must proceed with great care,
In case a fireball melts it all until there’s nothing there!
Who can blame a dragon for wanting a cool and refreshing snow cone? They come in so many different flavors and colors! Sadly, as soon as the tasty treat is within reach, it melts. This dragon, however, will not give up. After trying all it can think of to indulge in the slushy confection, the dragon seeks the advice of a colorful variety of friends.
However, the chilly penguin, industrious squirrels, parrot pirate, and cave-dwelling bat just can’t seem to help. Still no snow cone. Will the dragon ever taste a flavorful snow cone that doesn’t turn to slush? Kids of all ages will enjoy this tale of persistence and see tenacity in action in our scaly hero.
Smelly Peggy by Helen Stephens
Dog lovers unite! Find a leash and chase down this hilarious day-in-the-life ode to an unstoppable, odiferous, furry family member who may seem very familiar.
Meet Peggy—a very naughty dog who gets into a lot of trouble. Some of the things she loves doing: leaping on the bed in the morning and sticking her hairy bottom in Dad’s face. Sweeping her human family off their feet with her favorite sticks. And most of all, rolling in everything stinky and smelly she can find! And that’s not even the naughtiest thing she does . . . But do you think her family loves her anyway?
Open the windows for this happy, bighearted story about a beloved puppy named Peggy—a story that delights in the smelly but cherished canine family members that we couldn’t do without.
Fox, Fox, and More Fox by Corey R. Tabor
Get ready for Fox, Fox, and more Fox! The three funny stories in this picture book starring Corey R. Tabor’s award-winning Fox along with his steadfast friends.
Fox wishes he were a tiger! Tigers are big and fast and sneaky. So, Fox decides to become one. Fox is late! Follow him for a big surprise as he zooms along on his skateboard. Fox has a problem! Now all of Fox’s friends have problems, too. Can they work together to fix things before it’s too late?
With engaging full-color art throughout, this is a terrific title for bedtime and story-time sharing.
part of the Fox series
If I Built a Town by Chris Van Dusen
“My town will be swanky! My town will be swell! My town will be prized as the best place to dwell,” says Jack to the mayor one day as he describes his plans for improving their community.
And what a town he has dreamed up! The zoo is packed with fantastic, Jurassic, and mythical creatures, the mail is delivered by super-fast hover vans, the health clinic travels right to your door, and a parade passes through each and every week. And don’t forget the robots! All of Jack’s plans include the most exciting and useful serving machines. But most of all, wait till you see the beach!
Jack’s over-the-top creativity and infectious enthusiasm will inspire budding young inventors. It’s a storytime romp that you’ll want to return to again and again.
part of the If I Built … series
Who’s Afraid of the Easter Bunny? by Brooke Vitale
Celebrate Easter with Woody, Buzz, Rex, and their friends in this storybook based on Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story!
Easter is here, and all the toys in Bonnie’s room are excited. . . except for Rex. Why? Because he’s afraid of the Easter Bunny! Join the toys as they help Rex conquer his fears before the big day in the funny storybook. Kids ages 3 to 7 who enjoy Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story will love to find this book in their Easter baskets!
How to Catch an Invisible Bad Guy by Alice Walstead
The How to Catch kids are having fun at a carnival when an Invisible Bad Guy falls out of the movie they are watching! Convinced that the kids’ catching net is the ultimate world-domination device, the Invisible Bad Guy steals it and tries to get away. While this new foe may have superpowers, the How to Catch kids have a few carnival tricks up their sleeves. Can YOU help catch this villain or will their net be lost forever?
Full of zany traps, silly rhymes, and bright illustrations, this picture book is sure to capture the attention of young readers and educators alike. With STEAM concepts and hilarious characters, How to Catch an Invisible Bad Guy is the perfect summer read, holiday basket, or stocking stuffer, or classroom gift for children ages 4-10!
Here I am! Muhahaha! My reign has just begun. Do YOU think you can catch me? Alright, let’s have some fun!
part of the How to Catch series
Buzzing Beehive! by Christy Webster
Discover the bee—and learn what makes it buzz—in this full-color storybook based on Minecraft, the world’s best-selling video game!
Now younger Minecraft fans who are just starting to play the game can learn all about the friendly bee. In this full-color Mobs of Minecraft storybook, new player Sam encounters a beehive for the first time. Readers can discover how to find these sweet animals and care for their very own honey farm!
Featuring game play and crafting hints within an engaging story, this Minecraft storybook is perfect for children ages 4 to 7.
book 4 in the Mobs of Minecraft series
Dino-Birthday by Lisa Wheeler
Dinosaurs celebrate their birthdays with a variety of different parties, presents, and games depending on the season.
Every dino has one day
to spend in their own special way.
Playful rhyming verse from Lisa Wheeler and action-packed illustrations from Barry Gott highlight four dino birthday parties in four different seasons. Each party has a kid-friendly theme, and there are presents, cake, and lots of games for everyone!
part of the Dino-Holidays series
Will the Pigeon Graduate? by Mo Willems
The Pigeon had better graduate! He did the work! He paid attention to the little details! He overcame some BIG obstacles! The Pigeon’s got this . . . Or does he?
Do YOU think The Pigeon will graduate?
Grab your caps, don your gowns, and raise your hands for The Pigeon’s biggest adventure yet in this uplifting, hilarious, and inspirational graduation picture book from three-time Caldecott honoree Mo Willems. It’s a PhD* in fun!
(*Pigeon-y hilarious Diatribe)
book 12 in the Pigeon series
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