I’m excited to share a list of favorite KidLit books that I read in 2023. Note that some of these books were published this year and some are older. From Picture Books to YA, here are my favorites, along with a short review and links to purchase:

Picture Books

Good Night, My Darling Dear: Prayers and Blessings for You 

Written by Amy Kavelaris 

Illustrated by Amy Kavelaris

This book is so delightful! I picked it up because the cover is gorgeous. The illustrations are whimsical, fun, and so beautiful. They’re paired with a sweet rhyming text. Some books I love for the words, others for the illustrations, but this book is a joy because the words and illustrations are both wonderful!

Purchase Here: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Night-Darling-Dear-Blessings/dp/1400212464/

 

 The Three Billy Goats Gruff 

Written by Mac Barnett 

Illustrated by Jon Klassen

When I was a kid, I loved the story of The Tree Billy Goats Gruff. When I spotted this retelling in the bookstore, I purchased it without even cracking the cover—and I’m so glad I did! It’s delightful and hilarious. The illustrations aren’t my favorite, but I still love the book and will laugh every time I read it.

Purchase Here: https://www.amazon.com/Three-Billy-Goats-Gruff/dp/133867384X/

 The Dog That Gave My Brother Words 

Written by Wendy Hinote Lanier 

Illustrated by Jieting Chen

What a special story! This book is not only informative, but it also tugs on all the heartstrings. I teared up reading this beautiful story about a therapy dog who makes a huge impact on the life of a precious little boy. This book will spur many conversations with your littles.

Purchase Here: https://www.amazon.com/Dog-That-Gave-Brother-Words/dp/1637970609/

 Lilibet The Brave: The Unusual Childhood of an Unlikely Queen 

Written by Katy Rose

Illustrated by Katy Rose 

This is a keepsake book that future generations will love as much as kids today, and dare I say, adults too. The illustrations are lovely, and I learned things about Queen Elizabeth I didn’t know. This book made me admire this incredible woman even more.

Purchase Here: https://www.amazon.com/Lilibet-Brave-Unusual-Childhood-Unlikely/dp/1637971125/

 

 There’s An Elephant On My Chest 

Written by Caris Snider

Illustrated by Ana Sebastian

Every kid needs this book! I love the illustrations and the story is not only engaging, but a practical and helpful tool for kids and adults alike as they learn how to shrink their own anxiety elephants. In our world today, almost every child struggles with some type of anxiety and this book will help. I highly recommend it!

Purchase Here: https://www.amazon.com/Theres-Elephant-Chest-Caris-Snider/dp/1637970676/

 Upside Down Dreams 

Written by Michelle “MACE” Curran 

Illustrated by Skylar White 

Fabulous book. Inspirational and exciting, especially for little girls who dream of doing big things. This book is written by a former Thunderbird Pilot! 

Purchase Here: https://www.amazon.com/Upside-Down-Dreams-Michelle-Curran/dp/1637970757/

 The Anxious Lilly 

Written by Mary Holloman 

Illustrated by Amanda Gulliver

I love The Anxious Lily! This picture book includes fun rhymes, a fantastic message, and beautiful illustrations. It’s a book that makes me smile and includes a message I know will stay in my heart. Perfect for kids who sometimes (or often) feel anxious in life. 

Purchase Here: https://www.amazon.com/Anxious-Lily-Mary-Holloman/dp/163797051X/

 I Made the Earth 

Written by Shannon Cook 

Illustrated by Richard Watson 

A wonderful look at Earth Day that honors the One who made it. This is a fantastic book for Earth Day and every day. Sweet rhymes, wonderful illustrations, and an important message combine to make this a delightful book for any time of year.

Purchase Here: https://www.amazon.com/I-Made-Earth-Shannon-Cook/dp/1637970536/

Middle Grade

 The Mystery of the Radcliffe Riddle 

Written by Taryn Souders

I loved this book! Characters you can relate to, friendship, big challenges, mystery, and a treasure hunt. It really doesn’t get any better than that. I highly recommend this read for kids or for bigger “kids” like me!

Purchase Here: https://www.amazon.com/Mystery-Radcliffe-Riddle-Taryn-Souders/dp/172827141X/

 

 

 

Young Adult

 Offsides 

Written by Lori Z. Scott

This book is suspenseful, funny, and impactful. It takes a very talented author to write a book that includes copious amounts of humor yet addresses the very real and serious issue of human trafficking. Lori Scott is that writer. I laughed, forgot to breathe, cried, and cheered while reading this book. I look forward to reading the next book by Scott!

Purchase Here: https://www.amazon.com/Offsides-Lori-Z-Scott/dp/1637971060/

What book or books would you add to this list? Do you have a favorite KidLit read from 2023? Leave me a comment and let me know!