Top-rated books by Shmoop
Lord of the Flies
Age: 12-16
Books like Shmoop’s
Award winning
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea
Dav Pilkey, 2023
240 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure, perfect for young readers.
Builds critical thinking through unique story arcs.
Enhances literacy with creative wordplay and language.
Supports moral development and teamwork values.
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea
Dav Pilkey, 2023
The First Cat in Space and the Wrath of the Paperclip: A Graphic Novel (The First Cat in Space, 3)
Mac Barnett, 2025
272 pages, Paperback
Why to read
Laugh-out-loud space hijinks.
Strong teamwork role models.
Easy-to-follow graphic panels.
Great springboard for STEM chats.
The First Cat in Space and the Wrath of the Paperclip: A Graphic Novel (The First Cat in Space, 3)
Mac Barnett, 2025
Award winning
Bea Wolf
Zach Weinersmith, 2023
208 pages
Why to read
Modern twist on a classic tale inspires creativity.
Emphasizes resilience and bravery through Bea's adventures.
Supports language development with engaging dialogue.
Ideal for family reading, strengthens bonds.
Bea Wolf
Zach Weinersmith, 2023
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.
Mermaid Academy #1: Isla and Bubble
Julie Sykes, Linda Chapman, 2025
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
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
The Wind in the Willows – 90th anniversary gift edition: With original artwork, by Winnie-the-Pooh illustrator, E. H. Shepard
Kenneth Grahame, 2025
272 pages
Why to read
Timeless friendship tale.
Vivid illustrations enhance imagination.
Advanced yet musical language.
Humor balances gentle life lessons.
The Wind in the Willows – 90th anniversary gift edition: With original artwork, by Winnie-the-Pooh illustrator, E. H. Shepard
Kenneth Grahame, 2025
Award winning
The Jungle Book Stories
Rudyard Kipling, 2019
168 pages
Why to read
Timeless tales of adventure and moral lessons.
Cultivates empathy through diverse animal character perspectives.
Strengthens understanding of responsibility and respect.
Ideal for shared reading and family discussion.
