Top-rated books by Joan Rankin
Off to First Grade
Age: 4-6
Books like Joan Rankin’s
Award winning
The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative fostering emotional growth.
Teaches valuable lessons in resilience and friendship.
Boosts empathy with relatable, diverse characters.
Encourages dialogue on overcoming life's hurdles.

The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
Award winning
Noodle and the No Bones Day
Jonathan Graziano, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Illustrates resilience and positive attitude.
Encourages empathy and understanding in children.
Supports early emotional and social development.
Engaging story that fosters a love for reading.

Noodle and the No Bones Day
Jonathan Graziano, 2022
Award winning
Garlic and the Vampire
Bree Paulsen, 2021
160 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure fosters bravery and self-confidence.
Illustrations enrich storytelling, enhance visual literacy.
Emphasizes teamwork, community importance.
Crafts relatable fears into empowering resolutions.

Garlic and the Vampire
Bree Paulsen, 2021
Award winning
An American Story
Kwame Alexander, 2023
56 pages
Why to read
Captures essential American historical moments.
Fosters pride and understanding of national identity.
Encourages curiosity about historical events.
Stimulates discussions on cultural heritage.

An American Story
Kwame Alexander, 2023
Award winning
Big Nate: Beware of Low-Flying Corn Muffins
Lincoln Peirce, 2022
176 pages
Why to read
Captivating antics ensure engaging, enjoyable reading.
Showcases friendship and teamwork dynamics.
Encourages creative problem-solving through humorous challenges.
Ideal for enhancing young readers' engagement and comprehension.

Big Nate: Beware of Low-Flying Corn Muffins
Lincoln Peirce, 2022
Award winning
Dory Fantasmagory: Can't Live Without You
Abby Hanlon, 2024
160 pages
Why to read
Promotes creativity through engaging, imaginative adventures.
Highlights value of friendship and cooperation.
Encourages resilience and problem-solving skills.
Fun, relatable content for young readers.

Dory Fantasmagory: Can't Live Without You
Abby Hanlon, 2024
Award winning
The Jungle Book Stories
Rudyard Kipling, 2019
168 pages
Why to read
Timeless tales of adventure and moral lessons.
Cultivates empathy through diverse animal character perspectives.
Strengthens understanding of responsibility and respect.
Ideal for shared reading and family discussion.

The Jungle Book Stories
Rudyard Kipling, 2019
Award winning
The Sea of Terror: Once Upon a Tim
Stuart Gibbs, 2025
161 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled tale enriches curiosity and imagination.
Characters showcase resilience and teamwork.
Enhances critical thinking through problem-solving scenarios.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.
