10 Great New Children’s Books Out in August 2026

Ursula Nordstrom, a former child who worked with renowned authors like Maurice Sendak and E.B. White, emphasized her understanding of children's emotions by stating, "I am a former child, and I haven't forgotten a thing." The emotional authenticity of children's literature is crucial, as it resonates with young and older readers alike. Here are ten new children's books released in August 2026 that effectively capture the emotional journey of children from toddlerhood to teenage years.

Dan Yaccarino's "I Am Murphy and I Am Waiting" introduces readers to Murphy, a French bulldog, who must wait for his boy to return from school. Yaccarino's illustrations depict Murphy's practical coping strategies, such as exercising with toilet paper rolls and searching for his boy inside a bag of flour. This heartwarming tale of a boy and his dog will make readers laugh and yearn for a hug, as they share Murphy's joy upon his boy's return.

In "The Brunch Shift" by Adrienne Thurman, illustrated by Mags DeRoma, a young girl eagerly awaits her Saturday morning with her mother, who works as a waitress during the bustling brunch shift. The girl wishes for Saturdays to be filled with fun and relaxation, but her mother's imagination keeps the time passing quickly. The book's vibrant artwork and engaging narrative beautifully convey the ups and downs of childhood emotions and celebrate the special bond between a child and their caregiver.

Margarita Engle's "Wifredo’s Jungle: The Power of Wifredo Lam’s Art" is a picture book biography of the Cuban painter Wifredo Lam. Engle and illustrator Jacqueline Alcántara introduce young readers to Lam's journey from drawing images from his dreams to becoming an influential artist influenced by European masters and his Cuban, Chinese, and African heritage. Set on brown and black paper backgrounds, Wifredo’s Jungle offers a captivating exploration of art and history for readers of all ages.