Top-rated books by Barbara Cooney
Emily
Age: 3-7
Books like Barbara Cooney’s
The Odyssey
Gillian Cross, 2025
178 pages
Why to read
Exciting Greek myth retold for kids.
Boosts vocabulary and cultural literacy.
Models courage and critical thinking.
Great for parent-child discussions.

The Odyssey
Gillian Cross, 2025
Award winning
All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant journey through the colorful streets of Havana.
Celebrates creativity and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges.
Rich cultural immersion that fosters global awareness.
Engaging narrative that builds relatability and empathy.

All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
Award winning
The Jungle Book Stories
Rudyard Kipling, 2019
168 pages
Why to read
Timeless tales of adventure and moral lessons.
Cultivates empathy through diverse animal character perspectives.
Strengthens understanding of responsibility and respect.
Ideal for shared reading and family discussion.

The Jungle Book Stories
Rudyard Kipling, 2019
Award winning
Jasmine Toguchi, Bridge Builder
Debbi Michiko Florence, 2024
128 pages
Why to read
Highlights cultural diversity through engaging storytelling.
Encourages creativity and perseverance in young readers.
Supports comprehension and vocabulary development.
Aids in social-emotional learning and empathy.

Jasmine Toguchi, Bridge Builder
Debbi Michiko Florence, 2024
Award winning
The Princess in Black and the Giant Problem
Dean Hale, Shannon Hale, 2020
96 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure of bravery and teamwork.
Enhances self-confidence through relatable heroine.
Encourages resolving conflicts with creativity.
Ideal for shared reading and discussions.

The Princess in Black and the Giant Problem
Dean Hale, Shannon Hale, 2020
Award winning
A Super Scary Narwhalloween
Ben Clanton, 2023
76 pages
Why to read
Fuses Halloween excitement with enchanting aquatic adventure.
Boosts vocabulary with playful, thematic words.
Encourages creativity with unique narwhal-led storyline.
Ideal for bonding over seasonal storytelling.

A Super Scary Narwhalloween
Ben Clanton, 2023
Award winning
InvestiGators: Agents of S.U.I.T.
John Green, Christopher Hastings, 2023
208 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure improves kids' problem-solving skills.
Fun, relatable characters boost empathy and connection.
Combines humor and mystery for enjoyable learning.
Encourages teamwork, critical thinking in young readers.

InvestiGators: Agents of S.U.I.T.
John Green, Christopher Hastings, 2023
Award winning
Super King Viking Land!: A Branches Book
Thomas Flintham, 2023
80 pages
Why to read
Vibrant illustrations captivate and engage young readers.
Adventure-filled storyline fosters imagination and creativity.
Introduces early reading skills through simple text structure.
Encourages independent reading in emerging readers.


