Whether you’re the kind that wakes up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed on January 1st, ready to hit the gym, or perhaps someone who likes to go more with the flow and forgo a resolution list, a new year means new beginnings. And with new beginnings come hope, positivity, and all those warm & fuzzy feelings. To celebrate the new year, this week’s Butler Bookshelf is full of inspiring tales, ranging from sibling bonds to finding beauty in imperfection, complete with rich color & wonderful illustrations. Our feature pick this week is The Story and Science of Hope, written by Andrea Curtis and illustrated by Ana Suárez. Hope is more than just a feeling; it’s an essential part of our well-being. According to science. Packed with ancient history, new scientific research, and beautiful illustrations, The Story and Science of Hope is the perfect, awe-inspiring read to combat the uneasiness & anxiety that comes with an ever-changing, scary world. Hope’s scientifically found in the brain, so what better way to activate that feeling than with a cozy read?

Check out some more feel-good books to ring in 2026 below:

The Story and Science of Hope
Andrea Curtis
Illustrated by Ana Suárez
Anansi Press / Groundwood Books
Available now!

A Knot Is Not a Tangle
Daniel Nayeri
Illustrated by Vesper Stamper
Random House Children’s Books / Knopf Books for Young Readers
Available now!

Shaped By Love: An Ode to Mom Bods
Nikki Powers
Illustrated by Amanda Calatzis
Candlewick Press
Available now!

Together We Are Sunshine
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
Illustrated by Raissa Figueroa
Random House Children’s Books / Random House Studio
Available now!

The Wonderful Things You Will Be (Special Edition)
Emily Winfield Martin
Random House Children’s Books / Random House Books for Young Readers
Available now!