Hello, October! As the dust settles from back to school and fall marches on in full swing, we’re embracing exciting new books that are perfect for cozying up with. From adorable animals to heroic nonfiction and everything in between, October brings a little something for everyone. Here’s a look at new Bright books hitting the shelves this month.
Become a "citizen scientist" with this informative introduction to birdwatching.
Bird Count, illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman.
Oct 1 with Peachtree Publishing
An engaging and interactive story showing children the power of breath when dealing with new and difficult emotions.
Breathing Makes It Better, illustrated by Alea Marley.
Oct 1 with Bala Kids
"Glenn supplies earth-toned paintings that give a sense of the period and evoke mid-20th-century Disney cartoons. A stirring tribute to black excellence." — Kirkus
The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan, illustrated by Ebony Glenn.
Oct 1 with Lee & Low
A finicky polar bear learns that having friends and fun is more important than things being “just so.”
Just So Willow, illustrated by Stephanie Laberis.
Oct 1 with Sterling Children’s Books
This story teaches children to let go of first impressions and see themselves for who they really are.
Who Do You See When You Look at Me?, illustrated by Janet Samuel.
Oct 1 with Broadstreet Publishing
Follow the arctic fox as she persists the elements on her incredible 2,000 mile winter journey.
The Arctic Fox’s Journey, illustrated by Morgan Huff.
Oct 1 with HarperCollins
Babies spot the differences between animals and people in these pure fun books with built-in guessing games.
Whose Tail?, and Whose Nose? illustrated by Michael-Garton.
Oct 1 with Albert Whitman
African American girls and their beautiful hair are celebrated in this bright, joyful read-together picture book.
Happy Hair, written and illustrated by Mechal Roe.
Oct 15 with Doubleday Books for Young Readers
Sloth and friends teach kids how to combat first-day-of-school shyness in this humorous and heartfelt picture book.
Sloth to the Rescue, illustrated by Rob McClurkan.
Oct 15 with Running Press Kids
This sweet board book about animal friendships shows us that from elephants to otters, everybody needs a buddy!
Everybody Needs a Buddy, illustrated by Maddie Frost.
Oct 15 with Little Simon
These 21 dazzling stories will transport you to every corner of the globe.
Myths and Legends of the World, illustrated by Julia Iredale.
Oct 15 with Lonely Planet Kids
"It brims with heart, humor, and action, successfully crafting a beautifully unified secondary world that brings the power of stories to glorious life." — Booklist (starred review)
Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky, illustrated by Eric Wilkerson.
Oct 15 with Rick Riordan Presents
"Mildenberger renders her naïf illustrations in muted hues, and relevant visuals—zeroes and ones, computer keyboards, and myriad worries—ribbon through spreads." — Publishers Weekly
Think Smart, Be Fearless, illustrated by Vivien Mildenberger.
Oct 15 with Sasquatch Books
"The raucous tale is delightfully illustrated by Alder with big, colorful drawings showcasing a variety of lovable chickens that readers will want to pick up and hug" — School Library Journal
Chicken Break!, illustrated by Charlie Alder.
Oct 29 with Feiwel & Friends
"In this ethereal, wintry picture book, a cheerful little girl teaches her glum companion that color and beauty lie in the smallest details." — Shelf Awareness
A Day So Gray, illustrated by Alea Marley.
Oct 29 with Clarion Books