2026 CHILDREN'S BOOK COUNCIL HOT OFF THE PRESS PICK
From first steps to first fatherhood, this heartwarming tribute to the father-son bond is the perfect Father's Day gift for the one who always answers the call.
From life's messy highs to its quiet lows, there's one person who is always our first call: our father. Whether it's falling off your bike or building your first crib, Dad is our first coach, our biggest supporter, and the one with all the answers—even from the other end of the line.
Following a father and son through the seasons of life, Call Your Father is a lyrical celebration of fatherhood and the glue that holds fathers and sons together. Accompanied by gentle rhymes from Tracy C. Gold and tender illustrations from Vivian Mineker, this touching picture book delivers the powerful message that you are never too old to need your father.
The perfect gift for the fathers or grandfathers in your life who always answer the call, this heartwarming story is a beautiful companion to Call Your Mother and a precious addition to any baby shower or nursery.
Praise
“A precious and moving ode to dads and their steadfast love.”
—Kirkus Reviews
"This book is beautiful in every sense of the word. It's a heartfelt, poetic story about all of the different ways a child might connect with his or her father over a lifetime."
—Dawn Babb Prochovnic, author of "Mama's Home (and Baby Too!)"
"This book will give you the feels! It’s beautiful and tender."
—Olga Herrera, author and illustrator of "A Light for Lucinda"
"A perfect gift for father figures of all kinds. . . . Gold’s moving text and Mineker’s colorful illustrations show how the details of Dad’s support might change, but his caring presence remains constant."
—Kathy MacMillan, award-winning author
“Heartwarming and unexpectedly emotional. What a beautiful gift to give to a new dad to read with their new baby.”
—Kimberly Matte, educator
“A tender and reassuring story that captures the deep comfort of a parent’s steady presence. . . . This is a lovely book for bedtime or any moment when a child needs a little extra reassurance.”
—Emily Walker, educator
"A sweet story reflecting the unique bond between a father and their children."
—Alexis Kressner, play therapist
