Top-rated books by Joan Rankin
Off to First Grade
Age: 4-6
Books like Joan Rankin’s
Award winning
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #11): From the Creator of Captain Underpants
Dav Pilkey, 2023
240 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline fosters creativity and imagination.
Introduces teamwork, responsibility, and friendship themes.
Engaging graphics captivate and maintain children's interest.
Encourages reading confidence in young independent readers.

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #11): From the Creator of Captain Underpants
Dav Pilkey, 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
We Will Rock Our Classmates: Penelope Rex
Ryan T. Higgins, 2020
48 pages
Why to read
Boosts confidence through relatable character Penelope Rex.
Encourages inclusivity and friendship in school settings.
Supports emotional development and self-expression.
Ideal for engaging young readers in group discussions.

We Will Rock Our Classmates: Penelope Rex
Ryan T. Higgins, 2020
Award winning
Cat Kid Comic Club: On Purpose
Dav Pilkey, 2022
224 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity through engaging, colorful illustrations.
Encourages teamwork and collaboration among characters.
Supports development of reading and interpretative skills.
Reassures young readers to pursue their creative passions.

Cat Kid Comic Club: On Purpose
Dav Pilkey, 2022
Award winning
Wayside School Beneath the Cloud of Doom
Louis Sachar, 2020
192 pages
Why to read
Engaging, quirky adventures spark imagination.
Characters demonstrate resilience and teamwork.
Enhances problem-solving and social skills.
Ideal for fun, educational family reading.

Wayside School Beneath the Cloud of Doom
Louis Sachar, 2020
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.

All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
Award winning
Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
528 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline sparks children’s curiosity and imagination. - Vibrant, relatable characters encourage empathy and emotional growth. - Enhances problem-solving skills through engaging narrative challenges. - Supports language development and literacy in early learners.

Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
Award winning
Cornbread & Poppy
Matthew Cordell, 2022
80 pages
Why to read
Charming adventure of friendship and resourcefulness.
Enhances children's understanding of cooperation and sharing.
Lively illustrations captivate and engage young readers.
Supports early development of empathy and resilience.
