Top-rated books by Joan Rankin
Off to First Grade
Age: 4-6
Books like Joan Rankin’s
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
Cornbread & Poppy
Matthew Cordell, 2022
80 pages
Why to read
Charming adventure of friendship and resourcefulness.
Enhances children's understanding of cooperation and sharing.
Lively illustrations captivate and engage young readers.
Supports early development of empathy and resilience.

Cornbread & Poppy
Matthew Cordell, 2022
Julián at the Wedding
Jessica Love, 2025
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diverse, loving families.
Inspires creativity and imagination.
Teaches resilience after mistakes.
Gorgeous art boosts visual literacy.

Julián at the Wedding
Jessica Love, 2025
Award winning
Like Lava in My Veins
Derrick Barnes, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Explores emotional regulation through creative storytelling.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Supports development of coping strategies in children.
Engaging narrative that strengthens reading skills.

Like Lava in My Veins
Derrick Barnes, 2023
Award winning
Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
272 pages
Why to read
Showcases resilience through engaging, relatable storytelling.
Highlights importance of friendship and teamwork.
Encourages understanding and managing personal fears.
Supports emotional and social development.

Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
Award winning
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Charlie Mackesy, 2019
128 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming narrative teaches kindness and friendship values.
Artistic illustrations enhance visual and emotional engagement.
Simple yet profound dialogues support language development.
Encourages empathy and reflection in young readers.

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Charlie Mackesy, 2019
Award winning
Anzu the Great Listener
Benson Shum, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Cultivates active listening and empathy in young readers.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual learning.
Supports language development and comprehension skills.
Encourages meaningful conversations between parents and children.

Anzu the Great Listener
Benson Shum, 2023
Award winning
InvestiGators: Braver and Boulder (InvestiGators, 5)
John Green, 2022
208 pages
Why to read
Engages children with adventure and humor. - Enhances critical thinking through mystery solving. - Emphasizes teamwork and friendship. - Encourages creativity and curiosity in young readers.


