Books like The River
Award winning
The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
272 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of bravery and compassion.
Highlights the importance of forgiveness and hope.
Encourages empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates young imagination with whimsical storytelling.

The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
Award winning
The Alice in Wonderland Omnibus Including Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass (with the Original John Tenniel Illustrations)
Lewis Carroll, 2021
258 pages
Why to read
Sparks imagination with whimsical, fantastical adventures.
Enhances critical thinking through puzzling scenarios, riddles.
Iconic illustrations by John Tenniel enrich storytelling.
Encourages exploration of identity and self-perception.

The Alice in Wonderland Omnibus Including Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass (with the Original John Tenniel Illustrations)
Lewis Carroll, 2021
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
Asterix: Asterix and the White Iris: Album 40 (Asterix)
Jean-Yves Ferri, Fabcaro, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Vibrant illustrations ignite imagination and visual engagement.
Encourages historical knowledge through engaging storytelling.
Strengthens reading skills with witty, layered text.
Fosters humor appreciation, enhancing social understanding.

Asterix: Asterix and the White Iris: Album 40 (Asterix)
Jean-Yves Ferri, Fabcaro, 2023
Award winning
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners
Joanna Ho, 2021
34 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural identity and self-acceptance.
Stunning illustrations enhance the storytelling.
Encourages appreciation of one's heritage.
Strengthens self-esteem in young readers.

Eyes That Kiss in the Corners
Joanna Ho, 2021
The Neverending Story: 45th Anniversary Edition
Michael Ende, 2024
510 pages
Why to read
Celebrates creativity, expands imagination.
Strengthens reading skills, boosts cognitive development.
Encourages resilience, problem-solving abilities.
Timeless tale, resonates across generations.

The Neverending Story: 45th Anniversary Edition
Michael Ende, 2024
Award winning
Knight Owl
Christopher Denise, 2022
48 pages
Why to read
Heroic owl character inspires courage and confidence.
Engages young minds with captivating medieval adventure.
Strengthens reading skills through vivid, exciting narrative.
Encourages creative thinking and resilience.

Knight Owl
Christopher Denise, 2022
Award winning
The Bad Guys in the Others?!
Aaron Hartzler, Aaron Blabey, 2022
192 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative promoting inclusivity and diversity.
Enhances empathy through character-driven storytelling.
Exciting scenarios fostering decision-making skills.
Ideal for collaborative parent-child reading sessions.
