Top-rated books by Derrick Barnes
Books like Derrick Barnes’s
Award winning
InvestiGators: Take the Plunge
John Green, 2020
208 pages
Why to read
Engaging, adventurous storyline perfect for young readers.
Characters model teamwork, resilience, and curiosity.
Encourages deductive reasoning and investigative skills.
Combines humor with educational content seamlessly.

InvestiGators: Take the Plunge
John Green, 2020
Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All: (A Newbery Honor Book)
Chanel Miller, 2024
160 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming Chinatown adventure.
Funny, low-stakes detective plot.
Celebrates empathy and belonging.
Rich, lively middle-grade voice.

Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All: (A Newbery Honor Book)
Chanel Miller, 2024
Tom Gates: Five Star Stories
Liz Pichon, 2023
256 pages
Why to read
Engages kids with creative and humorous storytelling.
Encourages artistic expression through doodles and drawings.
Boosts reading confidence with accessible text layout.
Supports social skills development through relatable scenarios.

Tom Gates: Five Star Stories
Liz Pichon, 2023
The Accidental Diary of B.U.G.
Jen Carney, 2021
272 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure, sparks creativity and imagination.
Highlights importance of friendship and acceptance.
Encourages expressive writing and diary keeping.
Lighthearted humor, perfect for engaging young readers.

The Accidental Diary of B.U.G.
Jen Carney, 2021
Award winning
Friends Are Friends, Forever
Dane Liu, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates enduring friendships with engaging storytelling.
Teaches empathy and understanding through relatable scenarios.
Encourages emotional development and social skills.
Supports literacy growth with compelling, easy-to-follow text.

Friends Are Friends, Forever
Dane Liu, 2022
Award winning
The Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
288 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure sparks imagination and joy.
Teaches values of friendship, loyalty, and hope.
Encourages empathy and emotional understanding in children.
Ideal for family shared reading and discussion.

The Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
Award winning
Ways to Grow Love: Ryan Hart
Renée Watson, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery.
Encourages empathy, resilience, and personal growth.
Captivating narrative that keeps young readers engaged.
Supports emotional and social development.

Ways to Grow Love: Ryan Hart
Renée Watson, 2021
I'm Good at Making Music
Eileen Day, 2022
24 pages
Why to read
Inspires creativity and musical exploration in young minds.
Features diverse characters, fostering inclusivity and empathy.
Encourages perseverance and confidence through storytelling.
Perfect for bonding during family reading time.
