Top-rated books by John Calvin Smith
The Day Before Christmas
Age: 7-9
Books like John Calvin Smith’s
Award winning
The Worry Balloon
Betty C. Tang, Mónica Mancillas, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Addresses emotions through engaging and relatable storytelling.
Enhances understanding of managing worries and fears.
Encourages empathy and emotional resilience in children.
Offers practical coping strategies within a fun narrative.
The Worry Balloon
Betty C. Tang, Mónica Mancillas, 2023
Award winning
The Wizard of Oz (100 Copy Collector's Edition)
L. Frank Baum, 2023
112 pages
Why to read
Classic tale sparks imagination and adventure.
Encourages bravery, friendship, and self-discovery.
Rich, vivid descriptions enhance visual thinking.
Ideal for family reading and discussion.
The Wizard of Oz (100 Copy Collector's Edition)
L. Frank Baum, 2023
Award winning
Out and About: A Tale of Giving
Liza M. Wiemer, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Encourages generosity and community involvement through storytelling.
Engaging narrative fosters empathy and emotional growth.
Illustrations captivate and enhance understanding.
Ideal for family bonding and discussion.
Out and About: A Tale of Giving
Liza M. Wiemer, 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
My Town / Mi Pueblo
Nicholas Solis, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Bilingual storytelling enhances language development.
Culturally diverse settings broaden children's worldviews.
Engaging illustrations capture attention, foster imagination.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.
My Town / Mi Pueblo
Nicholas Solis, 2022
Award winning
You Matter to Me
Doyin Richards, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and inclusivity through engaging storytelling.
Encourages empathy and the importance of relationships.
Supports social and emotional development in children.
Reassuring, affirming message that all kids matter.
You Matter to Me
Doyin Richards, 2022
Award winning
Rowley Jefferson’s Awesome Friendly Spooky Stories
Jeff Kinney, 2021
224
Why to read
Engages with humor, perfect for young readers.
Encourages creativity and original storytelling.
Nurtures emotional intelligence through character experiences.
Supports literacy with accessible writing style.
Rowley Jefferson’s Awesome Friendly Spooky Stories
Jeff Kinney, 2021
The Midnight Panther
Poonam Mistry, 2024
48 pages
Why to read
Rich, vibrant illustrations stimulate children's visual senses.
Encourages cultural awareness and diversity appreciation.
Engages children in exploring themes of courage and friendship.
Supports language development and storytelling skills.
