The Illinois Reading Council has released its 2026 Illinois Reads book list.

The list was announced as part of the statewide Illinois Reads program, which promotes reading for all Illinois citizens, according to a community announcement.

The Illinois Reads program features six books in six different age bands, with selections by authors and illustrators who have ties to Illinois. The books range from read-to books for infants to books for adult readers, according to the announcement.

Bookmarks and posters highlighting the Illinois Reads books will be available in early 2026. Supplies are limited and early ordering is encouraged, according to the announcement.

The Illinois Reads book selections for 2026 are divided into six age groups:

Birth-4

Dirt’s Journey by Sally M. Walker

E-I-UF

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