Top-rated books by Jay Coles
Tyler Johnson Was Here
Age: 13-14
Books like Jay Coles’s
Award winning
Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
Benjamin Dean, 2021
352 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of diversity and acceptance.
Encourages understanding of LGBTQ+ community.
Develops empathy through engaging storytelling.
Inspires adventure and family bonding.

Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
Benjamin Dean, 2021
Award winning
The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
272 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of bravery and compassion.
Highlights the importance of forgiveness and hope.
Encourages empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates young imagination with whimsical storytelling.

The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
Award winning
Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
160 pages
Why to read
Captivating storyline celebrating milestones and growth.
Characters exhibit realistic emotions and decisions.
Enhances understanding of friendship and sharing.
Supports social skills development through engaging narrative.

Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
Award winning
Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #12)
Dav Pilkey, 2024
224 pages
Why to read
Engaging superhero-themed storyline sparks imagination.
Characters embody teamwork and perseverance.
Enhances reading skills through graphic novel format.
Encourages moral lessons and empathy development.

Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #12)
Dav Pilkey, 2024
Award winning
The World Belonged to Us
Jacqueline Woodson, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Captures joyful essence of childhood adventures.
Encourages teamwork and community building.
Enhances empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates imagination through vibrant storytelling.

The World Belonged to Us
Jacqueline Woodson, 2022
Award winning
Maribel's Year
Michelle Sterling, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Engages young readers with vibrant, illustrative storytelling.
Develops empathy and understanding through diverse character experiences.
Encourages resilience and perseverance through narrative challenges.
Supports language development and comprehension skills.

Maribel's Year
Michelle Sterling, 2023
A Kiss for Little Bear (I Can Read Level 1)
Else Holmelund Minarik, 2025
32 pages
Why to read
Promotes kindness and gratitude.
Perfect length for beginners.
Funny animal antics entertain.
Beautiful, timeless illustrations.

A Kiss for Little Bear (I Can Read Level 1)
Else Holmelund Minarik, 2025
Award winning
The Homesick Kitten
Holly Webb, 2022
128 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale of friendship and adventure.
Encourages empathy and understanding in young readers.
Beautifully illustrated, captivating young imaginations.


