Top-rated books by Shmoop
Lord of the Flies
Age: 12-16
Books like Shmoop’s
Award winning
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Charlie Mackesy, 2019
128 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming narrative teaches kindness and friendship values.
Artistic illustrations enhance visual and emotional engagement.
Simple yet profound dialogues support language development.
Encourages empathy and reflection in young readers.

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Charlie Mackesy, 2019
Award winning
Cat Kid Comic Club: Perspectives
Dav Pilkey, 2021
224 pages
Why to read
Encourages creativity through diverse storytelling techniques.
Strengthens visual literacy with engaging illustrations.
Supports emotional development with relatable themes.
Interactive layout fosters reader involvement and reflection.

Cat Kid Comic Club: Perspectives
Dav Pilkey, 2021
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
Anzu the Great Listener
Benson Shum, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Cultivates active listening and empathy in young readers.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual learning.
Supports language development and comprehension skills.
Encourages meaningful conversations between parents and children.

Anzu the Great Listener
Benson Shum, 2023
Award winning
Tiger in Trouble: Book 2 (The Adventure Club)
Jess Butterworth, 2025
160 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure stimulates imagination and curiosity.
Characters exhibit teamwork, enhancing social skills.
Promotes critical thinking through problem-solving scenarios.
Ideal for cooperative reading sessions between parents and children.

Tiger in Trouble: Book 2 (The Adventure Club)
Jess Butterworth, 2025
A Spoonful of Frogs
Casey Lyall, 2025
40 pages
Why to read
Laugh-out-loud kitchen chaos.
Models problem-solving and patience.
Strong read-aloud rhythm.
Delightful art fuels imagination.

A Spoonful of Frogs
Casey Lyall, 2025
Award winning
The 143-Story Treehouse
Andy Griffiths, 2021
304 pages
Why to read
Expands creativity with whimsical, adventurous storytelling.
Fosters resilience and resourcefulness through engaging challenges.
Strengthens reading skills with layered, dynamic narratives.
Encourages bonding over shared laughter and discovery.

The 143-Story Treehouse
Andy Griffiths, 2021
Award winning
All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant journey through the colorful streets of Havana.
Celebrates creativity and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges.
Rich cultural immersion that fosters global awareness.
Engaging narrative that builds relatability and empathy.
