Books like Karen's Brothers (Baby-sitters Little Sister #17)
Dawn's Wicked Stepsister (The Baby-sitters Club #31)
Ann M. Martin, 1990
160 pages, Paperback
Why to read
Relatable family challenges with hopeful resolution.
Promotes empathy and respectful communication.
Classic Baby-sitters Club humor and heart.
Great entry for middle-grade independent readers.

Dawn's Wicked Stepsister (The Baby-sitters Club #31)
Ann M. Martin, 1990
Award winning
Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
160 pages
Why to read
Captivating storyline celebrating milestones and growth.
Characters exhibit realistic emotions and decisions.
Enhances understanding of friendship and sharing.
Supports social skills development through engaging narrative.

Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
Karen's Ghost: A Graphic Novel (Baby-sitters Little Sister #11) (Baby-Sitters Little Sister Graphix)
Ann M. Martin, 2025
144 pages
Why to read
Fun mystery with gentle chills.
Shows power of teamwork.
Great for reluctant readers.
Teaches research skills.

Karen's Ghost: A Graphic Novel (Baby-sitters Little Sister #11) (Baby-Sitters Little Sister Graphix)
Ann M. Martin, 2025
Award winning
The Meanest Doll in the World
Brian Selznick, Ann M. Martin, Laura Godwin, 2003
304 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure enriches problem-solving skills.
Addresses self-esteem and peer pressure.
Fosters empathy and relationships understanding.
Enhances imaginative play and creativity.

The Meanest Doll in the World
Brian Selznick, Ann M. Martin, Laura Godwin, 2003
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
Anne Dreams: Inspired by Anne of Green Gables (An Anne Chapter Book)
Kallie George, 2024
72 pages
Why to read
Gentle, engaging retelling for beginners.
Celebrates creativity and accountability.
Short chapters boost reading stamina.
Introduces Canadian history softly.

Anne Dreams: Inspired by Anne of Green Gables (An Anne Chapter Book)
Kallie George, 2024
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
An Elephant & Piggie Biggie! Volume 4 (An Elephant and Piggie Book)
Mo Willems, 2025
320 pages
Why to read
Teaches empathy with humor.
Boosts early reading confidence.
Shows creative problem-solving.
Perfect for shared giggles.

