Books like Close to Here
Award winning
Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
528 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline sparks children’s curiosity and imagination. - Vibrant, relatable characters encourage empathy and emotional growth. - Enhances problem-solving skills through engaging narrative challenges. - Supports language development and literacy in early learners.

Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
Award winning
The Adventures of William and Thomas (I Told You So! Book 1)
Mark Gunning, Stephanie Sims, 2023
113 pages
Why to read
Engages young readers with thrilling adventures.
Enhances empathy through relatable sibling dynamics.
Fosters creativity and problem-solving skills.
Encourages shared reading with captivating storytelling.

The Adventures of William and Thomas (I Told You So! Book 1)
Mark Gunning, Stephanie Sims, 2023
Solve Your Own Mystery: The Transylvanian Express
Gareth P. Jones, 2023
447 pages
Why to read
Interactive mystery enhances problem-solving skills.
Engages readers with a thrilling, suspenseful narrative.
Encourages critical thinking through clue gathering.
Supports literacy and focus improvement in young readers.

Solve Your Own Mystery: The Transylvanian Express
Gareth P. Jones, 2023
Award winning
The Red Jacket
Bob Holt, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure enhances children’s creative thinking.
Encourages empathy through diverse, relatable character experiences.
Supports cognitive development with engaging narrative challenges.
Strengthens reading skills, perfect for family bonding.

The Red Jacket
Bob Holt, 2023
There's a Beast in the Basement!
Pamela Butchart, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Exciting adventure stimulates curiosity and imagination.
Characters display bravery, teamwork, and resilience.
Enhances problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Encourages discussion about fear and courage.

There's a Beast in the Basement!
Pamela Butchart, 2023
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
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
The Enchanted Quest
Mac Barnett, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline fosters imagination and creativity.
Characters exhibit resilience and teamwork.
Enhances critical thinking through mysterious quests.
Ideal for shared reading, strengthens parent-child bonding.
