Books like The Secret Lives of Mermaids (The Secret Lives Series)
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 Skull
Jon Klassen, Fairuza Balk, 2023
106 pages
Why to read
Stimulates imagination with engaging, mysterious storyline.
Characters exhibit resilience and teamwork.
Enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Encourages family reading and discussion.

The Skull
Jon Klassen, Fairuza Balk, 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
Princess Minna: The Enchanted Forest
Kirsty Applebaum, 2025
96 pages
Why to read
Engaging fantasy adventure in a magical forest setting.
Strong female protagonist encourages empowerment and resilience.
Enhances creative thinking and imaginative play.
Ideal for family reading, fosters bonding and discussion.

Princess Minna: The Enchanted Forest
Kirsty Applebaum, 2025
The BFG (Unabridged edition)
Roald Dahl, 2019
224 pages
Why to read
Sparks imagination with giant adventures.
Encourages empathy through unique character connections.
Enhances vocabulary with whimsical language.
Supports problem-solving skills, critical thinking.

The BFG (Unabridged edition)
Roald Dahl, 2019
The Midnight Panther
Poonam Mistry, 2024
48 pages
Why to read
Rich, vibrant illustrations stimulate children's visual senses.
Encourages cultural awareness and diversity appreciation.
Engages children in exploring themes of courage and friendship.
Supports language development and storytelling skills.

The Midnight Panther
Poonam Mistry, 2024
Award winning
The Wizard of Oz (100 Copy Collector's Edition)
L. Frank Baum, 2023
112 pages
Why to read
Classic tale sparks imagination and adventure.
Encourages bravery, friendship, and self-discovery.
Rich, vivid descriptions enhance visual thinking.
Ideal for family reading and discussion.

The Wizard of Oz (100 Copy Collector's Edition)
L. Frank Baum, 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.
