Books like A Giant Crush
Award winning
Carmine: A Little More Red
Melissa Sweet, 2005
40 pages
Why to read
Whimsical retelling of classic Little Red Riding Hood.
Introduces basic vocabulary through playful text.
Inspires creativity and love for reading.
Engages young minds in solving puzzles.
Carmine: A Little More Red
Melissa Sweet, 2005
Award winning
Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, Wallace West, 2023
352 pages
Why to read
Inspires compassion through rescue animal stories.
Highlights importance of responsibility and care.
Encourages empathy and emotional development.
Engaging real-life tales boost reading interest.
Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, Wallace West, 2023
Award winning
Off to Kindergarten
Johnston Tony, Melissa Sweet, 2007
32 pages
Why to read
Prepares children for kindergarten with engaging storytelling.
Illustrations that capture attention and stimulate imagination.
Encourages social skills and classroom readiness.
Reassuring for both parents and children about school transition.
Off to Kindergarten
Johnston Tony, Melissa Sweet, 2007
Award winning
Little Red Writing
Joan Holub, Melissa Sweet, 2013
32 pages
Why to read
Sparks creativity through playful narrative and vibrant illustrations.
Encourages young writers with a positive, empowering message.
Supports language development and storytelling skills.
Ideal for shared reading, enriching family bonds.
Little Red Writing
Joan Holub, Melissa Sweet, 2013
Award winning
Now What Can I Do?
Melissa Sweet, Margaret Park Bridges, 2001
32 pages
Why to read
Encourages independence and decision-making in everyday scenarios.
Illustrations that captivate and engage young readers.
Supports language development and cognitive skills growth.
Addresses handling boredom creatively.
Now What Can I Do?
Melissa Sweet, Margaret Park Bridges, 2001
Award winning
A Dozen Easter Eggs (Jewel Sticker Stories)
Melissa Sweet, 1997
24 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity with interactive jewel sticker activities.
Engages young readers in holiday-themed storytelling.
Enhances fine motor skills through sticker placement.
Supports color recognition and pattern arrangement.
A Dozen Easter Eggs (Jewel Sticker Stories)
Melissa Sweet, 1997
If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period
Gennifer Choldenko, 2007
216 pages
Why to read
Addresses important themes like friendship and identity.
Encourages understanding of social and personal challenges.
Suitable for middle schoolers' emotional and social development.
Engaging narrative that enhances empathetic skills.
If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period
Gennifer Choldenko, 2007
Award winning
Balloons over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy's Parade
Melissa Sweet, 2011
40 pages
Why to read
Chronicles creativity in puppet-making and parades.
Inspires children with real-life artistic achievements.
Enhances knowledge of American cultural history.
Encourages curiosity and innovation in young readers.
