Multicultural Literature: The 9th edition offers a new Chapter 3: The Changing World of Childhood’s Books and the Development of Multicultural Literature which combines the essentials of the history of children’s literature with the important foundations of multicultural literature. Additionally, examples of effective multicultural literature are woven throughout the entire text and are highlighted by an icon.

Hundreds of Added Titles: The ninth edition has been revised to include the best of contemporary children's books, while maintaining the canon of classics. More than 100 new illustrations of recent publications have been added, with more than 1,000 new references to the very latest children’s texts.

Anita Lobel: The Caldecott-winning illustrator who worked with the late Charlotte Huck to create the art for Princess Furball, Toads and Diamonds, and The Black Bull of Norroway has contributed the cover and interior art to the 9th edition.

Hot Off the Press Appendix: This new appendix highlights the many recent literature and illustration additions to the text, as well as last-minute publications that could not be included elsewhere.