Best Children's Disease Books of 2026

Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a heartwarming story about Auggie Pullman, a boy born with a facial difference that has prevented him from attending a mainstream school. Starting fifth grade at Beecher Prep, Auggie wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid, but his classmates can't get past his extraordinary face. The novel explores the struggles of empathy, compassion, and acceptance in a world where bullying among young people is an epidemic. Wonder is a rare gem of a novel, beautifully written and populated by characters that linger in your memory and heart.

Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You by Sonia Sotomayor and Rafael Lopez is a wonderful children's book that celebrates diversity and inclusion. The book encourages readers to embrace their differences and to ask questions about others who may seem different from them. The book is based on Justice Sotomayor's personal experience as a child diagnosed with diabetes, making it relatable and inspiring for children facing similar challenges. The vibrant illustrations by Rafael Lopez perfectly complement the positive message of the book, making it an excellent addition to any child's library.

Raina Telgemeier's Smile: A Graphic Novel is a heartwarming and relatable memoir about a young girl's journey through dental work and the challenges of growing up. This New York Times bestselling book is a must-read for children, particularly those struggling with self-esteem and anxiety. The author's ability to weave humor and poignant moments throughout the story makes it a joy to read. The book's unique format as a graphic novel adds another layer of engagement for young readers. Overall, Smile is a touching and inspiring story that teaches important lessons about self-acceptance and perseverance.

The Crossover by Kwame Alexander is a Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award-winning middle-grade novel, featuring basketball and heartache. The book follows 12-year-old Josh Bell and his twin brother Jordan, who are both excellent basketball players. However, Josh has a passion for poetry and uses it to tell his family's story in verse. The story explores family, brotherhood, and growing up on and off the court. The format of the book, which mixes free verse, hip-hop poetry, concrete poems, and newspaper clippings, is unique and engaging. Overall, The Crossover is a powerful and emotional read that will appeal to both sports enthusiasts and poetry lovers.

Allergic: A Graphic Novel is a heartwarming coming-of-age story about Maggie, a fifth-grader who loves animals but is severely allergic to anything with fur. With her parents preoccupied with a new baby and her younger brothers in their own world, Maggie feels left out until she makes a new friend and learns to live with her allergies. The book also provides valuable information about allergy tests, anaphylaxis, and EpiPens. Michelle Mee Nutter's illustrations perfectly capture the cozy feel of the story. Overall, this GRAPHIX book is a must-read for children who love pets and anyone looking for a relatable and realistic protagonist.

A special box set of Raina Telgemeier's bestselling memoirs, Smile, Sisters, and Guts, is a must-read for children and adults alike. Smile tells the true story of how Raina severely injured her two front teeth when she was in the sixth grade, and the dental drama that followed. Sisters explores the complex relationship between Raina and her younger sister, while Guts delves into Raina's struggles with anxiety. Telgemeier's charming and witty storytelling, coupled with her beautiful illustrations, make this box set a joy to read. It's no wonder Telgemeier is considered the queen of the youth-comics explosion.

From Raina Telgemeier, the #1 New York Times bestselling, multiple Eisner Award-winning author of Smile, Drama, and Sisters!Catrina and her family are moving to the coast of Northern California because her little sister, Maya, is sick. Cat isn't happy about leaving her friends for Bahía de la Luna, but Maya has cystic fibrosis and will benefit from the cool, salty air that blows in from the sea. As the girls explore their new home, a neighbor lets them in on a secret: There are ghosts in Bahía de la Luna. Maya is determined to meet one, but Cat wants nothing to do with them. As the time of year when ghosts reunite with their loved ones approaches, Cat must figure out how to put aside her fears for her sister's sake -- and her own.Raina Telgemeier has masterfully created a moving and insightful story about the power of family and friendship, and how it gives us the courage to do what we never thought possible.

Making a Difference is the first book in the Young Change Makers series, featuring inspiring stories of young people around the world who are making a difference in their communities. This book is packed with beautiful illustrations, color photos, and interesting facts, proving that you're never too young to make a difference. Each book in this series includes 12 young change makers from around the world, fun facts about them, a map showing where they are from, and information about how they made their dreams a reality. This book is a great addition to any elementary school classroom library or a child's home book collection. Highly recommended!

For the child who says, "I want to be a doctor when I grow up!" And for any child who wants a gentle behind-the-scenes look at being a doctor. Doctors help sick and hurt people feel better. When little brother Jack hurts his foot, the family gets to meet all kinds of doctors.With this story blending narrative with nonfiction elements, readers meet the doctors who heal broken bones, help fix teeth, and even work in laboratories!I Want to Be a Doctor is part of a new I Can Read series that introduces young readers to important community helpers. This Level One I Can Read is perfect for children learning to sound out words and sentences. Whether shared at home or in a classroom, the short sentences, familiar words, and simple concepts of Level One books support success for children eager to start reading on their own.For anyone looking for books about community helpers for kids, the I Can Read My Community books are a great choice. The books are bright and upbeat and feature characters who are diverse in terms of gender, race, age, and body type. Kids ages 3-6 will enjoy finding out more about the people who do so much to help all of our communities.