Books like Boots in the Mud: Independent Reading Purple 8
The Puppets of Spelhorst
Kate Dicamillo, 2023
149 pages
Why to read
Engages children with vivid, captivating puppet characters.
Stimulates creativity and imagination through interactive storytelling.
Encourages empathy and understanding between diverse characters.
Ideal for enhancing communication and social skills.

The Puppets of Spelhorst
Kate Dicamillo, 2023
This Book Is Definitely Not Cursed
Megan Woodward, 2024
40 pages
Why to read
Engaging, humorous story sparks imagination and laughter.
Builds resilience and problem-solving skills in young readers.
Characters show teamwork, boosting social development.
Perfect for family bonding during reading time.

This Book Is Definitely Not Cursed
Megan Woodward, 2024
Emerald and the Lost Treasure
Harriet Muncaster, 2024
128 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled narrative sparks children's imagination.
Encourages resilience through protagonist Emerald's journey.
Supports development of problem-solving skills.
Vivid illustrations enhance reading engagement.

Emerald and the Lost Treasure
Harriet Muncaster, 2024
Story of Gumluck the Wizard
Emma Thompson, 2025
148 pages
Why to read
Captivates with magical adventures and whimsical spells.
Gumluck: a witty, clever character kids love.
Encourages creativity and magical thinking.
Ideal for enhancing young readers’ vocabulary.

Story of Gumluck the Wizard
Emma Thompson, 2025
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
FGTeeV: Out of Time!
Fgteev, Miguel Díaz Rivas, 2024
208 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline fosters imagination and curiosity.
Characters model teamwork and resilience.
Enhances problem-solving and strategic thinking skills.
Engaging narrative promotes a love for reading.

FGTeeV: Out of Time!
Fgteev, Miguel Díaz Rivas, 2024
Award winning
The Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
288 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure sparks imagination and joy.
Teaches values of friendship, loyalty, and hope.
Encourages empathy and emotional understanding in children.
Ideal for family shared reading and discussion.

The Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
The Other Side of the Valley
Ashling Lindsay, 2024
32 pages
Why to read
Explores emotional resilience through challenging circumstances.
Encourages empathy and understanding diverse perspectives.
Beautifully illustrated, captivating young readers visually.
Strengthens reading comprehension and vocabulary skills.
