Top-rated books by Joan Rankin
Off to First Grade
Age: 4-6
Books like Joan Rankin’s
Award winning
The Smart Cookie
Jory John, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates self-discovery and intellectual curiosity.
Encourages self-confidence through engaging storytelling.
Supports emotional development and perseverance.
Ideal for family bonding through shared reading.

The Smart Cookie
Jory John, 2021
Karen's Brothers (Baby-sitters Little Sister #17)
Ann M. Martin, 2025
112 pages
Why to read
Relatable blended-family situations.
Humorous, gentle life lessons.
Encourages empathy and honesty.
Great confidence-building chapter length.

Karen's Brothers (Baby-sitters Little Sister #17)
Ann M. Martin, 2025
Anne Dreams: Inspired by Anne of Green Gables (An Anne Chapter Book)
Kallie George, 2024
72 pages
Why to read
Gentle, engaging retelling for beginners.
Celebrates creativity and accountability.
Short chapters boost reading stamina.
Introduces Canadian history softly.

Anne Dreams: Inspired by Anne of Green Gables (An Anne Chapter Book)
Kallie George, 2024
Award winning
Black Boy, Black Boy
Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and empowerment for young Black boys.
Nurtures self-identity and self-worth in children.
Inspires resilience and ambition through relatable storytelling.
Supports developmental growth in empathy and emotional intelligence.

Black Boy, Black Boy
Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, 2022
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
The Berenstain Bears on the Moon
Stan Berenstain, Jan Berenstain, 2025
48 pages
Why to read
Easy text grows early reading skills.
Fun space facts spark curiosity.
Beloved characters ensure engagement.
Encourages dreaming big.

The Berenstain Bears on the Moon
Stan Berenstain, Jan Berenstain, 2025
Award winning
Lightfall: The Girl & The Galdurian
Tim Probert, 2022
256 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled, sparks imagination and curiosity.
Characters model resilience and teamwork.
Enhances critical thinking through complex plots.
Ideal for shared reading, strengthens bonds.

Lightfall: The Girl & The Galdurian
Tim Probert, 2022
Mermaid Academy #1: Isla and Bubble
Julie Sykes, Linda Chapman, 2025
128 pages
Why to read
Fast, ocean-set adventure.
Empowering, kind heroine.
Eco-friendly message.
Ideal early-chapter length.


