Top-rated books by Joan Rankin
Off to First Grade
Age: 4-6
Books like Joan Rankin’s
Award winning
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea
Dav Pilkey, 2023
240 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure, perfect for young readers.
Builds critical thinking through unique story arcs.
Enhances literacy with creative wordplay and language.
Supports moral development and teamwork values.
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea
Dav Pilkey, 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
The First Cat in Space and the Soup of Doom
Mac Barnett, 2024
272 pages
Why to read
Stimulates imagination with interstellar adventure.
Introduces resilience through quirky, relatable characters.
Encourages problem-solving in whimsical scenarios.
Provides a fun, engaging reading journey.
The First Cat in Space and the Soup of Doom
Mac Barnett, 2024
Award winning
We Will Rock Our Classmates: Penelope Rex
Ryan T. Higgins, 2020
48 pages
Why to read
Boosts confidence through relatable character Penelope Rex.
Encourages inclusivity and friendship in school settings.
Supports emotional development and self-expression.
Ideal for engaging young readers in group discussions.
We Will Rock Our Classmates: Penelope Rex
Ryan T. Higgins, 2020
Award winning
Cat Kid Comic Club: On Purpose
Dav Pilkey, 2022
224 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity through engaging, colorful illustrations.
Encourages teamwork and collaboration among characters.
Supports development of reading and interpretative skills.
Reassures young readers to pursue their creative passions.
Cat Kid Comic Club: On Purpose
Dav Pilkey, 2022
Award winning
Wayside School Beneath the Cloud of Doom
Louis Sachar, 2020
192 pages
Why to read
Engaging, quirky adventures spark imagination.
Characters demonstrate resilience and teamwork.
Enhances problem-solving and social skills.
Ideal for fun, educational family reading.
Wayside School Beneath the Cloud of Doom
Louis Sachar, 2020
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
The Wind in the Willows – 90th anniversary gift edition: With original artwork, by Winnie-the-Pooh illustrator, E. H. Shepard
Kenneth Grahame, 2025
272 pages
Why to read
Timeless friendship tale.
Vivid illustrations enhance imagination.
Advanced yet musical language.
Humor balances gentle life lessons.
