Books like The Sad Rat: Early Reader
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 Ralph Mouse Collection (The Mouse and the Motorcycle / Runaway Ralph / Ralph S. Mouse)
Beverly Cleary, 2023
624 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventures foster imagination and creativity.
Features relatable, resourceful characters promoting resilience.
Encourages problem-solving and independence in children.
Ideal for shared reading, enhancing family bonds.

The Ralph Mouse Collection (The Mouse and the Motorcycle / Runaway Ralph / Ralph S. Mouse)
Beverly Cleary, 2023
Award winning
Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #12)
Dav Pilkey, 2024
224 pages
Why to read
Engaging superhero-themed storyline sparks imagination.
Characters embody teamwork and perseverance.
Enhances reading skills through graphic novel format.
Encourages moral lessons and empathy development.

Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #12)
Dav Pilkey, 2024
Award winning
Proud Mouse (Loud Mouse)
Idina Menzel, Cara Mentzel, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Engages kids through lively and entertaining storytelling.
Highlights themes of self-confidence and bravery.
Encourages social skills and empathy development.
Perfect for interactive parent-child reading sessions.

Proud Mouse (Loud Mouse)
Idina Menzel, Cara Mentzel, 2023
Award winning
The Little House Collection
Laura Ingalls Wilder, 2024
100 pages
Why to read
Captures pioneering spirit and historical American lifestyle.
Encourages resilience and adaptability through character development.
Supports understanding of familial and societal roles.
Engages young readers with vivid, descriptive storytelling.

The Little House Collection
Laura Ingalls Wilder, 2024
Award winning
Lightfall: The Girl & The Galdurian
Tim Probert, 2022
256 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled, sparks imagination and curiosity.
Characters model resilience and teamwork.
Enhances critical thinking through complex plots.
Ideal for shared reading, strengthens bonds.

Lightfall: The Girl & The Galdurian
Tim Probert, 2022
Award winning
Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, 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, 2023
Award winning
The Camper and The Counselor
Jackie Oshry, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Fosters independence through camping adventure themes.
Enhances empathy with diverse, engaging characters.
Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.
