Books like The Great (Food) Bank Heist
Where Magic Grows
Onjali Q. Raúf, 2023
193 pages
Why to read
Sparks imagination through magical and engaging storytelling.
Addresses themes of friendship, courage, and resilience.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Supports language development and cognitive growth.

Where Magic Grows
Onjali Q. Raúf, 2023
Award winning
The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
272 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of bravery and compassion.
Highlights the importance of forgiveness and hope.
Encourages empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates young imagination with whimsical storytelling.

The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
Award winning
Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #12)
Dav Pilkey, 2024
224 pages
Why to read
Engaging superhero-themed storyline sparks imagination.
Characters embody teamwork and perseverance.
Enhances reading skills through graphic novel format.
Encourages moral lessons and empathy development.

Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #12)
Dav Pilkey, 2024
Award winning
InvestiGators: All Tide Up (InvestiGators, 7)
John Green, 2023
208 pages
Why to read
Exciting adventure keeps young readers engaged.
Enhances critical thinking through mystery-solving elements.
Illustrations stimulate visual learning and creativity.
Encourages teamwork and cooperation among characters.

InvestiGators: All Tide Up (InvestiGators, 7)
John Green, 2023
Award winning
Iguana Boy Saves the World with a Triple Cheese Pizza
James Bishop, 2025
176 pages
Why to read
Inventive plot encourages creativity and unconventional thinking.
Characters display resilience and teamwork throughout the story.
Introduces children to friendship dynamics and collaboration.
Light-hearted humor supports engaged, joyful reading.

Iguana Boy Saves the World with a Triple Cheese Pizza
James Bishop, 2025
Award winning
The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza
Mac Barnett, 2020
320 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure promotes creativity and imagination.
Engaging characters teach resilience and teamwork.
Interstellar setting stimulates curiosity about space.
Ideal for fun, educational family reading time.

The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza
Mac Barnett, 2020
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
All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant journey through the colorful streets of Havana.
Celebrates creativity and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges.
Rich cultural immersion that fosters global awareness.
Engaging narrative that builds relatability and empathy.

