The most anticipated children’s books of 2026

From beloved classic authors returning with surprise releases to fresh voices redefining children’s storytelling, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for young readers. These upcoming books promise adventure, emotional depth, learning through play, and imaginative worlds that children (and parents) will cherish. (unsplash)

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Manga: The iconic superhero returns this time in manga form. This reimagining brings the much-loved characters to a new generation of readers who enjoy graphic storytelling and fast paced humour. (amazon.in)

Happy Spooky Halloween by LeBron James: A festive picture book celebrating Halloween through themes of friendship, teamwork, and fun. With colourful illustrations and an inclusive message, it’s expected to become a seasonal favourite for young readers. (amazon.in)

Magnitude by Jennifer A. Nielsen: From a bestselling middle grade author, Magnitude takes young readers into the heart of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake disaster, a gripping story of survival and history. (amazon.in)

Mixed Feelings, Graphic Novel: This upcoming graphic novel explores emotions, identity, and growing up through expressive art and relatable storytelling. It’s designed to help children navigate complex feelings in an accessible and visually engaging way. (amazon.in)

Sing the 50 United States! by Dr. Seuss: A posthumously published Dr. Seuss title, this rhyming, whimsical book introduces children to all 50 U.S. states in classic Seussian style. It’s a major literary event, blending geography with playful language and illustrations. (amazon.in)

The Gumdrops, Quest for Bravery: A fun new title for ages 5 to 8, following the sweet but brave Gumdrops as they embark on heart pounding adventures, perfect for early chapter book fans. (amazon.in)