Pennsylvania One Book Early Literacy Program

The Pennsylvania One Book initiative is a valuable program that highlights the importance of early literacy development in preschoolers and the significance of reading early and often to children, as well as engaging them in conversation and other activities around books. The program has remained successful in part due to the partnership of collaborating agencies that all support early childhood literacy efforts. Each year, a different children’s picture book is chosen by the committee to be highlighted.

The PA One Book Committee is delighted to announce that the 2026 PA One Book selection is The Great Cookie Kerfuffle, written by Jessica Shaw and illustrated by Pauline Gregory.

From the publisher: A friendly little farm breaks into chaos as increasing numbers of farm animals fight over a dropped cookie, until there’s trouble overhead! United against a common enemy, the animals learn that friendship and taking care of each other is more important than winning a fight.

Enjoy the recorded 2026 PA One Book Virtual Author Visit featuring Jessica Shaw, author of The Great Cookie Kerfuffle. This lively session brings the story to life as Jessica shares insights about her book, talks about the creative process, and engages young readers with warmth and humor.

The video will remain available through July 19, 2026, so feel free to watch, rewatch, and share the experience with your classroom, library, or family reading time.

The PA One Book Committee is comprised of representatives from the Office of Commonwealth Libraries, Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), Pennsylvania Center for the Book, The Pennsylvania Key, Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11, Center for Schools & Communities, Early Intervention Technical Assistance, North Central Library District, and the Free Library of Philadelphia. The Committee is excited to be developing new partnerships this year and have added representatives from the Pennsylvania Treasury, Parent to Parent of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Kiwanis Foundation, as well as a parent leader.