Top-rated books by Lesley Barnes
Flyaway
Age: 3-7
Stay Where You Are and Then Leave
Age: 9-12
Books like Lesley Barnes’s
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
Evergreen
Matthew Cordell, Helen Day, Dreamscape Media, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Engages children with vibrant, enchanting illustrations. - Encourages environmental awareness and respect. - Supports language development and vocabulary expansion. - Ideal for shared reading, strengthening family bonds.

Evergreen
Matthew Cordell, Helen Day, Dreamscape Media, 2023
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.

The Sea of Terror: Once Upon a Tim
Stuart Gibbs, 2025
Award winning
Watercress
Andrea Wang, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and family bonds.
Enhances understanding of diversity and inclusion.
Encourages emotional growth through relatable storytelling.
Beautifully illustrated, captivating young readers.

Watercress
Andrea Wang, 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.

Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2021
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
InvestiGators: Braver and Boulder (InvestiGators, 5)
John Green, 2022
208 pages
Why to read
Engages children with adventure and humor. - Enhances critical thinking through mystery solving. - Emphasizes teamwork and friendship. - Encourages creativity and curiosity in young readers.

InvestiGators: Braver and Boulder (InvestiGators, 5)
John Green, 2022
Award winning
Bear and Bird: The Picnic and Other Stories
Jon-Erik Lappano, 2024
32 pages
Why to read
Engaging tales of friendship and adventure.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Supports early development of problem-solving skills.
Ideal for cozy, shared reading sessions.
