Top-rated books by Laura Derico
Books like Laura Derico’s
Award winning
Small Places, Close to Home
Deborah Hopkinson, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Explores local adventures with captivating stories.
Features characters displaying resilience and creativity.
Encourages exploration and appreciation of surroundings.
Ideal for enhancing geographic and social awareness.

Small Places, Close to Home
Deborah Hopkinson, 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
Bea Wolf
Zach Weinersmith, 2023
208 pages
Why to read
Modern twist on a classic tale inspires creativity.
Emphasizes resilience and bravery through Bea's adventures.
Supports language development with engaging dialogue.
Ideal for family reading, strengthens bonds.

Bea Wolf
Zach Weinersmith, 2023
Award winning
The Bad Guys in They're Bee-Hind You!
Aaron Hartzler, Aaron Blabey, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Engaging plot with humor and adventure.
Fosters empathy and teamwork among young readers.
Enhances reading skills through lively storytelling.
Addresses courage and morality in exciting ways.

The Bad Guys in They're Bee-Hind You!
Aaron Hartzler, Aaron Blabey, 2021
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
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 Grandfather's Song Book
Huỳnh Kim Liên, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Beautifully illustrated, celebrating Vietnamese culture and heritage.
Strengthens bonds with grandparent through shared stories.
Encourages musical interest and historical curiosity.
Engaging tale fostering emotional and cognitive growth.

My Grandfather's Song Book
Huỳnh Kim Liên, 2023
Einstein the Penguin
Iona Rangeley, 2022
224 pages
Why to read
Engaging story fosters curiosity and imagination.
Characters teach resilience and friendship values.
Enhances problem-solving and emotional intelligence.
Ideal for shared reading, strengthens family bonds.
