Our Best Books for Kids committee has been busy! Here are some nonfiction titles they are shouting about from library roofs across the city. Add these to their previous likes.  

The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons by Natascha Biebow

The story of the inventor who loved nature's vibrant colors and found a way to give them to children in a bright green box for only a nickel. 

 

 

 

It Feels Good to Be Yourself: A Book About Gender Identity by Theresa Thorn

Provides a sensitive vocabulary for discussions and exploration of gender identity. 

 

 

 

Just Right: Searching for the Goldilocks Planet by Curtis Manley

Text and illustrations combine to celebrate the mysteries of the universe.

 

 

 

The Magic & Mystery of Trees by Jen Green

Learn about who trees take care of each other and how the whole forest is connected and many many more fascinating things about trees. 

 

 

 

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré by Anika Denise

A portrait of New York City's first Puerto Rican librarian. 

 

 

 

Smile: How Young Charlie Chaplin Taught the World to Laugh (and Cry) by Gary Golio

A creative look at the early life of Charlie Chaplin. 

 

 

 

 

Have trouble reading standard print? Many of these titles are available in formats for patrons with print disabilities.

Staff picks are chosen by NYPL staff members and are not intended to be comprehensive lists. We'd love to hear your ideas too, so leave a comment and tell us what you’d recommend. And check out our Staff Picks browse tool for more recommendations!