Top-rated books by Jr. Barnes, Johnny Ray
Plant People (Strange Matter, 14)
Age: 9-12
Dangerous Waters (Strange Matter)
Age: 8-12
Books like Jr. Barnes, Johnny Ray’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
Solve Your Own Mystery: The Transylvanian Express
Gareth P. Jones, 2023
447 pages
Why to read
Interactive mystery enhances problem-solving skills.
Engages readers with a thrilling, suspenseful narrative.
Encourages critical thinking through clue gathering.
Supports literacy and focus improvement in young readers.

Solve Your Own Mystery: The Transylvanian Express
Gareth P. Jones, 2023
Award winning
Things in the Basement
Ben Hatke, 2023
240 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity with engaging supernatural elements.
Encourages teamwork and bravery among characters.
Illustrations complement and enrich the storytelling.
Enhances vocabulary with age-appropriate language.

Things in the Basement
Ben Hatke, 2023
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
The Midnight Panther
Poonam Mistry, 2024
48 pages
Why to read
Rich, vibrant illustrations stimulate children's visual senses.
Encourages cultural awareness and diversity appreciation.
Engages children in exploring themes of courage and friendship.
Supports language development and storytelling skills.

The Midnight Panther
Poonam Mistry, 2024
Award winning
Gibberish
Young Vo, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity through playful, imaginative language.
Supports language development with engaging, quirky dialogues.
Encourages interactive reading sessions between parents and children.
Builds vocabulary with unique and amusing wordplay.

Gibberish
Young Vo, 2022
I'm Good at Making Music
Eileen Day, 2022
24 pages
Why to read
Inspires creativity and musical exploration in young minds.
Features diverse characters, fostering inclusivity and empathy.
Encourages perseverance and confidence through storytelling.
Perfect for bonding during family reading time.

I'm Good at Making Music
Eileen Day, 2022
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.


