Top-rated books by Gary Paulsen
Books like Gary Paulsen’s
Award winning
Garlic and the Vampire
Bree Paulsen, 2021
160 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure fosters bravery and self-confidence.
Illustrations enrich storytelling, enhance visual literacy.
Emphasizes teamwork, community importance.
Crafts relatable fears into empowering resolutions.

Garlic and the Vampire
Bree Paulsen, 2021
Award winning
Curse of the Shadow Dragon: A Branches Book
Tracey West, 2023
96 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled, captivating narrative. - Encourages courage and teamwork in youngsters. - Develops reading fluency and comprehension. - Suitable for beginning independent readers.

Curse of the Shadow Dragon: A Branches Book
Tracey West, 2023
The First Cat in Space and the Wrath of the Paperclip: A Graphic Novel (The First Cat in Space, 3)
Mac Barnett, 2025
272 pages, Paperback
Why to read
Laugh-out-loud space hijinks.
Strong teamwork role models.
Easy-to-follow graphic panels.
Great springboard for STEM chats.

The First Cat in Space and the Wrath of the Paperclip: A Graphic Novel (The First Cat in Space, 3)
Mac Barnett, 2025
Award winning
The Adventures of Pinocchio: With Annotated
Carlo Collodi, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Classic tale encourages honesty and integrity.
Enhances imagination with whimsical adventures.
Annotated version offers comprehensive understanding.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.

The Adventures of Pinocchio: With Annotated
Carlo Collodi, 2021
Award winning
Bea Wolf
Zach Weinersmith, 2023
208 pages
Why to read
Modern twist on a classic tale inspires creativity.
Emphasizes resilience and bravery through Bea's adventures.
Supports language development with engaging dialogue.
Ideal for family reading, strengthens bonds.

Bea Wolf
Zach Weinersmith, 2023
Award winning
Ozma of Oz (Oz Series Book 3)
L. Frank Baum, Lyman Frank Baum, 2021
271 pages
Why to read
Adventurous journey enhancing imagination and creativity.
Engaging characters fostering empathy and emotional growth.
Encourages resilience through problem-solving situations.
Supports language development and vocabulary expansion.

Ozma of Oz (Oz Series Book 3)
L. Frank Baum, Lyman Frank Baum, 2021
Award winning
Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
528 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline sparks children’s curiosity and imagination. - Vibrant, relatable characters encourage empathy and emotional growth. - Enhances problem-solving skills through engaging narrative challenges. - Supports language development and literacy in early learners.

Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
Award winning
Anzu the Great Kaiju
Benson Shum, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Unleashes creativity with captivating giant monster adventures.
Fosters emotional growth through Anzu's character development.
Encourages empathy and understanding between diverse creatures.
Ideal for boosting literacy and engagement in young readers.
