The Best New Board Books for the Littlest Readers

Highlights PressEvery toddler wants to help — and We're Better Together shows them they already can. Follow a group of little ones through the small, everyday moments that build belonging: cleaning up side by side, making music, welcoming someone new. Along the way, kids discover that community isn't just something they're part of — it's something they help create. With gentle words from Eileen Spinelli and warm illustrations by Ekaterina Trukhan, this board book helps the youngest readers see that who they are makes their whole community stronger. Board books are among my favorites for many reasons. The obvious indestructibility is a huge plus and can benefit groups beyond the babies who will eat or rip anything weaker than cardboard. I love having a basket of board books in my elementary school library for students who are, ahem, enthusiastic and want access to books they can read without needing full-body control. Board books are easy baby shower gifts, and their popularity has encouraged publishers to go beyond the ABCs and 123s, printing some beloved classics and longer stories in the board book format. Even for readers well past toddler age, board books are nice to keep in hi...