Books like I Talk Like a River
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 Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
288 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure sparks imagination and joy.
Teaches values of friendship, loyalty, and hope.
Encourages empathy and emotional understanding in children.
Ideal for family shared reading and discussion.

The Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
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 Odyssey
Gillian Cross, 2025
178 pages
Why to read
Exciting Greek myth retold for kids.
Boosts vocabulary and cultural literacy.
Models courage and critical thinking.
Great for parent-child discussions.

The Odyssey
Gillian Cross, 2025
An Elephant & Piggie Biggie! Volume 5 (An Elephant and Piggie Book)
Mo Willems, 2025
320 pages
Why to read
Lively humor hooks young readers.
Teaches patience and gratitude.
Perfect length for nightly read-alouds.
Boosts sight-word recognition.

An Elephant & Piggie Biggie! Volume 5 (An Elephant and Piggie Book)
Mo Willems, 2025
Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All: (A Newbery Honor Book)
Chanel Miller, 2024
160 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming Chinatown adventure.
Funny, low-stakes detective plot.
Celebrates empathy and belonging.
Rich, lively middle-grade voice.

Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All: (A Newbery Honor Book)
Chanel Miller, 2024
Narwhal's Sweet Tooth (A Narwhal and Jelly Book #9)
Ben Clanton, 2025
72 pages
Why to read
Funny visuals keep pages turning quickly.
Promotes balanced eating habits playfully.
Celebrates caring, supportive friendships.
Great starter graphic novel format.

Narwhal's Sweet Tooth (A Narwhal and Jelly Book #9)
Ben Clanton, 2025
Award winning
Dog Man: Mothering Heights
Dav Pilkey, 2021
224 pages
Why to read
Humorous, engaging storyline captivates and delights young readers.
Encourages empathy and emotional intelligence through character interaction.
Enhances vocabulary and language skills in early learners.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading moments.

