Top-rated books by Michael Wertz
Books like Michael Wertz’s
Award winning
Catside Up, Catside Down
Anna Hrachovec, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Explores problem-solving through playful cat antics.
Enhances creativity with reversible cat scenarios.
Encourages interactive reading and family involvement.
Builds early language and cognitive skills.

Catside Up, Catside Down
Anna Hrachovec, 2023
Award winning
Benita and the Night Creatures
Mariana Llanos, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Explores creativity through magical realism.
Builds empathy through relatable character experiences.
Enhances problem-solving with engaging plot twists.
Stimulates language development and imagination.

Benita and the Night Creatures
Mariana Llanos, 2023
Ember Spark and the Thunder of Dragons
Abi Elphinstone, 2024
253 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled, sparks curiosity and imagination.
Features strong, relatable young protagonist.
Encourages resilience and bravery through challenges.
Enhances vocabulary and comprehension skills.

Ember Spark and the Thunder of Dragons
Abi Elphinstone, 2024
Award winning
Hide and Shh!: A Not-So-Sneaky Sister Story About Inclusion
Christina Dendy, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Encourages inclusivity and acceptance among siblings and friends.
Highlights problem-solving through playful sibling dynamics.
Fosters emotional intelligence and empathy in young readers.
Engaging narrative that sparks conversations about fairness.

Hide and Shh!: A Not-So-Sneaky Sister Story About Inclusion
Christina Dendy, 2023
Award winning
Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity and personal identity.
Encourages respect for oneself and others.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading.
Inspires confidence and pride in heritage.

Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
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
Things in the Basement
Ben Hatke, 2023
240 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity with engaging supernatural elements.
Encourages teamwork and bravery among characters.
Illustrations complement and enrich the storytelling.
Enhances vocabulary with age-appropriate language.

Things in the Basement
Ben Hatke, 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.
