Books like Joanna Kedge’s
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
Small Places, Close to Home
Deborah Hopkinson, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Explores local adventures with captivating stories.
Features characters displaying resilience and creativity.
Encourages exploration and appreciation of surroundings.
Ideal for enhancing geographic and social awareness.
Small Places, Close to Home
Deborah Hopkinson, 2023
Award winning
An American Story
Kwame Alexander, 2023
56 pages
Why to read
Captures essential American historical moments.
Fosters pride and understanding of national identity.
Encourages curiosity about historical events.
Stimulates discussions on cultural heritage.
An American Story
Kwame Alexander, 2023
Award winning
The Worry Balloon
Betty C. Tang, Mónica Mancillas, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Addresses emotions through engaging and relatable storytelling.
Enhances understanding of managing worries and fears.
Encourages empathy and emotional resilience in children.
Offers practical coping strategies within a fun narrative.
The Worry Balloon
Betty C. Tang, Mónica Mancillas, 2023
Award winning
The Bad Guys in They're Bee-Hind You!
Aaron Hartzler, Aaron Blabey, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Engaging plot with humor and adventure.
Fosters empathy and teamwork among young readers.
Enhances reading skills through lively storytelling.
Addresses courage and morality in exciting ways.
The Bad Guys in They're Bee-Hind You!
Aaron Hartzler, Aaron Blabey, 2021
Award winning
Iguana Boy Saves the World with a Triple Cheese Pizza
James Bishop, 2025
176 pages
Why to read
Inventive plot encourages creativity and unconventional thinking.
Characters display resilience and teamwork throughout the story.
Introduces children to friendship dynamics and collaboration.
Light-hearted humor supports engaged, joyful reading.
Iguana Boy Saves the World with a Triple Cheese Pizza
James Bishop, 2025
Award winning
The Cape of Wonders
Kevin Johnson, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Sparks imagination with a magical, captivating narrative.
Features relatable, diverse characters promoting inclusivity.
Enhances problem-solving through engaging plot twists.
Encourages family bonding through shared reading adventures.
The Cape of Wonders
Kevin Johnson, 2023
Award winning
Rowley Jefferson's Awesome Friendly Spooky Stories
Jeff Kinney, 2021
224 pages
Why to read
Sparks creativity with whimsically spooky narratives.
Strengthens reading skills, enriches vocabulary.
Encourages emotional intelligence through relatable fears.
Ideal for shared parent-child reading moments.
