Nothing sparks joy quite like a brand-new book (well not really brand-new and not always a physical book, but new for me) landing on my shelves—especially when it’s a mix of stories that make you laugh, think, and maybe even tear up a little. Here are 10 books I recently got—and already can’t stop loving! From picture books that warm the heart to poetry that tickles the brain, there’s a little something for everyone.

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For this week’s Top Ten Tuesday, though this is not just my holiday haul (didn’t get too many books this Christmas but many of these are in the past month or so)

10 Books I Recently Got (and Already Love)

• Caring: A Children’s Book about the Difference We Can Make in the World by Kobi Yamada/art by Elise Hurst. Like other Kobi Yamada books, this one is amazing! A sweet reminder that even tiny acts of kindness can ripple far and wide.
• Favorite Poems Old and New: Selected For Boys and Girls compiled by Helen Ferris. As a poem-lover, I couldn’t resist this one from a local used bookstore. It’s a classic edition full of poems that make reading fun for kids (and adults who are kids at heart).
• The Happy Hollisters and the Punch and Judy Mystery by Jerry West. I found this at the same bookstore; it instantly pulled me in. A fun children’s detective series that keeps readers turning the pages
• Inside Mrs. B’s Classroom by Leslie Baldacci. Picked up at Phoenix Books in San Luis Obispo, this one intrigued me because of my own teaching journey. It’s a heartwarming story of a teacher that reminded me of To Sir With Love.
• The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore; illustrated by Niroot Puttapipat. Another Phoenix Books find, this edition features stunning papercut illustrations and a pop-up ending page that is pure magic.
• The Power of Our Words: Teacher Language That Helps Children Learn by Paula Denton. I love this title! It’s full of practical tips and inspiration for teachers to make their words count in the classroom every day.
• San Francisco Poems by Lawrence Ferlinghetti. Poems, San Francisco, Ferlinghetti—what’s not to love? A collection that captures the quirky, colorful, and vibrant soul of the City by the Bay.
• Subhadra: The Bride of Two Houses by Malini Aravind. A shameless plug (my niece wrote it!) but also a must-read. A mythological retelling where Subhadra balances love, loyalty, and duty across two powerful dynasties.
• Tuck Everlasting: The Graphic Novel adapted/illustrated by K. Woodman-Maynard; written byNatalie Babbitt. I adore Tuck Everlasting in all forms, and this graphic novel adaptation brings the story to life in a new, stunning way.
• Turns Out I’m Actually Cool by Rachel Claire. Perfect for tweens and teens! A collection of stories about growing up, finding confidence, and navigating life’s funny, awkward moments.

And Now, the End of This Post

So dear reader, which of these books would you dive into first? Have you read any of these titles or do any of them remind you of other reads? Or maybe bring back memories or excitement for you? Do share your thoughts on these books and share your most recent bookshelf additions.