The Best New Children’s Books to Brighten Your April 2025
Spring has sprung, and so have a fresh crop of beautifully written, brilliantly illustrated children’s books that are perfect for reading together. Whether you’re looking for laugh-out-loud picture books, heartwarming bedtime stories, or empowering tales for independent readers, April 2025 delivers a bookshelf full of gems.
Here are some of the best new children's books to check out this month:
🌼 1. Maple & the Moonlight Rescue by Priya Desai
Ages: 5–8
This enchanting adventure follows a clever raccoon named Maple who sets off to save her forest home under the light of a magical moon. With luminous illustrations and themes of courage and community, this one’s sure to become a bedtime favorite.
📖 2. My Brother the Comet by Jordan Li & illustrated by Emily Xie
Ages: 6–9
A touching sibling story wrapped in a sci-fi sparkle, this book explores grief, wonder, and imagination through the eyes of a boy who believes his late brother has become a comet. Poignant and poetic, it’s a gentle conversation starter.
🐛 3. Tiny Tilly Builds a Garden by Ruth Alvarez
Ages: 3–6
Perfect for springtime, this vibrant picture book celebrates determination and the joy of getting your hands dirty. Tilly’s tiny garden grows bigger than anyone expects—and so does her confidence.
🐾 4. The Day the Dogs Took Over by Leo McNabb
Ages: 4–8
Imagine a town where all the dogs are suddenly in charge—what could possibly go wrong? (Or right?) Packed with humor and clever canine chaos, this hilarious book is great for group read-alouds.
🎧 *5. Read To Me Recordable Book Buddy Picks
All Ages
Not a book in itself, but a perfect pairing for any of these titles. The Read To Me Recordable Book Buddy lets grownups record themselves reading a book aloud—making storytime possible even when you're far away. Whether you're a traveling parent or a grandparent across the country, it's a magical way to make sure your voice is part of the story.
🌟 6. Nia’s Not-So-Silent Night by Chelsea Grant
Ages: 5–8
A sensory-friendly celebration of sound, quiet, and everything in between. Nia learns to find her own rhythm during a holiday gathering that’s just a little too loud. Perfect for kids with sensory sensitivities—or anyone who sometimes needs a little quiet time.
Why April Is the Perfect Month to Read Together
April’s longer days and lighter evenings are made for reading—on the porch, in the park, or snuggled under the covers. These new releases make it easy to fill your days with giggles, wonder, and the kind of stories that stay with kids for years.
So pick up a few of these titles, press "record" on your Read To Me Recordable Book Buddy, and start building memories that last long after the last page is turned.
