Top-rated books by Joan Kalbacken
Badgers
Age: 8-9
Books like Joan Kalbacken’s
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
Award winning
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners
Joanna Ho, 2021
34 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural identity and self-acceptance.
Stunning illustrations enhance the storytelling.
Encourages appreciation of one's heritage.
Strengthens self-esteem in young readers.
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners
Joanna Ho, 2021
Award winning
Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity and personal identity.
Encourages respect for oneself and others.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading.
Inspires confidence and pride in heritage.
Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
The First Cat in Space and the Soup of Doom
Mac Barnett, 2024
272 pages
Why to read
Stimulates imagination with interstellar adventure.
Introduces resilience through quirky, relatable characters.
Encourages problem-solving in whimsical scenarios.
Provides a fun, engaging reading journey.
The First Cat in Space and the Soup of Doom
Mac Barnett, 2024
Award winning
The Little Kid with the Big Green Hand
Matthew Gray Gubler, 2023
224 pages
Why to read
Encourages empathy through creative, colorful storytelling.
Stimulates imagination with quirky, engaging plot.
Supports social skills development with relatable characters.
Ideal for interactive family reading sessions.
The Little Kid with the Big Green Hand
Matthew Gray Gubler, 2023
Award winning
I Send You a Hug
Anne Booth, 2025
32 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming story fostering emotional connection and empathy.
Encourages understanding of affection through imaginative play.
Supports emotional development and relational concepts.
Ideal for cozy, shared reading moments.
I Send You a Hug
Anne Booth, 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
Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Educates on historical events through narrative storytelling.
Addresses complex themes with age-appropriate language.
Encourages awareness and understanding of racial history.
Supports discussions on equality and human rights.
