Best Children's Hispanic & Latino Books of 2026

The My First English - Español Learning Library is a box set of 10 board books that cover basic concepts in both Spanish and English. The bilingual books feature well-researched pictures with labels to make it easier for children to learn concepts and build a robust vocabulary. The box set includes books on the alphabet, numbers, animals, shapes, colors, fruits, and vegetables. Wonder House Books has done a great job in developing age-appropriate content that enhances children's language skills. Overall, this is a great collection of books for young children learning Spanish and English.

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.

Esperanza Rising is a Scholastic Gold award-winning novel that tells the story of a Mexican girl who goes through a fall from riches and immigration to California during the Great Depression. Esperanza and her mother must adjust to a new life in a farm labor camp and face financial struggles, hard work, and lack of acceptance. When Mama falls sick and a strike for better working conditions threatens their new life, Esperanza must find a way to rise above her difficulties. This lyrical and engaging story offers excellent opportunities for discussion and curriculum support.

Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega and Rose Bousamra is a heartwarming and visually stunning middle-grade graphic novel about Marlene, a young Dominican girl struggling to accept her frizzy hair in a world that values straight hair. Through Marlene's journey of self-discovery, the book addresses complex themes of colorism, generational trauma, and toxic beauty standards with nuance and honesty. Ortega's narrative and Bousamra's expressive illustrations capture Marlene's emotional growth and empowerment, making this book an exquisite excavation of hair politics, family dynamics, and self-love. Overall, Frizzy is a must-read for children and adults alike, as it celebrates the radical power of accepting oneself as they are.

Invisible: A Graphic Novel is a heartwarming story about five students from different backgrounds who come together to complete community service at their school. Despite their differences, they find common ground and become friends as they help someone in need. With text in both English and Spanish, this graphic novel by Christina Diaz Gonzalez and Gabriela Epstein is a must-read for anyone who loves Raina Telgemeier or Varian Johnson. The book celebrates individuality and community while transcending language barriers. Overall, Invisible is an engaging and relatable story about unexpected friendships and being seen for who you really are.

The second book in the Front Desk series, Three Keys, by Kelly Yang, follows Mia Tang and her family as they continue to run the Calivista Motel. As Mia faces the challenges of sixth grade, including a teacher who doesn't appreciate her writing and the threat of a new immigration law, she must use her determination to overcome these obstacles. The book has won several awards and praise, including being named a Best Book of the Year by multiple publications. Yang's writing is powerful and resonant, making Three Keys a must-read for young readers.

Jessica Love's debut picture book, Julián Is a Mermaid, is a mesmerizing and heartwarming celebration of self-love and individuality. The story follows Julián, a young boy who becomes fascinated with mermaids after seeing three women dressed as them on the subway. He daydreams of becoming a mermaid himself and creates a costume out of a curtain and ferns. The spare text and vivid illustrations bring the story to life, and Love's use of a muted yet lively color palette makes even the subway cars and apartment rooms feel as expansive as the ocean. This book is a must-have for one-on-one and small group sharing and is a unique addition to children's books on LGBTQ+ families.

Señorita Mariposa is an enchanting bilingual book that tells the story of the journey monarch butterflies take from Canada to Mexico. The rhyming text and lively illustrations capture the epic trip taken by these international travelers. The book provides a unique opportunity for children to learn about the monarchs and the people and places they encounter along the way. The backmatter includes interesting facts about the butterflies' round trip and a call to action to protect their habitats. This book is a great addition to any child's library and is sure to spark their curiosity about the world around them.

The Golden Frog Games (Witchlings 2) by Claribel A. Ortega is an enchanting follow-up to the instant New York Times bestselling Witchlings. The story revolves around the Twelve Towns' magical tournament, the Golden Frog Games, where the Witchlings become embroiled in a mystery involving the stonification of fellow champions. The book is fast-paced, emotionally charged, and sharply insightful about the epidemic of hate against minority groups. Ortega weaves a cozy, lived-in feel into the story, making it an enchanting read for children. The book is a unique blend of magic, friendship, and humor, making it a perfect addition to the children's friendship books category.

An inspiring and fun read for kids, "Sofia Valdez, Future Prez" by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts tells the story of Sofia, a young girl who takes action to turn a local landfill into a park. Her determination and courage to stand up for what she believes in is a valuable lesson for children. The book is part of the bestselling Questioneers series and features Roberts' beautiful illustrations. This book is a great addition to any family library and encourages children to make a difference in their communities.