Top-rated books by Lesley Barnes
Stay Where You Are and Then Leave
Age: 9-12
Flyaway
Age: 3-7
Books like Lesley Barnes’s
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
Champ and Major: First Dogs
Joy Mccullough, 2021
24 pages
Why to read
Celebrates loyalty and friendship in a relatable setting.
Inspires interest in public figures through personal stories.
Enhances understanding of civic responsibility and leadership.
Offers engaging dialogue and vivid illustrations.

Champ and Major: First Dogs
Joy Mccullough, 2021
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
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
Award winning
Super King Viking Land!: A Branches Book
Thomas Flintham, 2023
80 pages
Why to read
Vibrant illustrations captivate and engage young readers.
Adventure-filled storyline fosters imagination and creativity.
Introduces early reading skills through simple text structure.
Encourages independent reading in emerging readers.

Super King Viking Land!: A Branches Book
Thomas Flintham, 2023
Lenny Henry (Little People, BIG DREAMS)
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, 2024
32 pages
Why to read
Inspiring story of Lenny Henry's rise to fame
Encourages perseverance and chasing dreams
Highlights importance of diversity and inclusivity
Engaging and educational read for young children

Lenny Henry (Little People, BIG DREAMS)
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, 2024
Award winning
The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
368 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale promotes empathy and community spirit.
Engages young readers with charming, relatable characters.
Encourages resilience and creativity in problem-solving.
Fosters family connections and shared reading moments.

The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
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.


