K-2ND GRADE
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
Picture books
HAROLD & THE PURPLE CRAYON
Written and Illustrated by Crockett Johnson
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Harold and the Purple Crayon features a young boy who travels to distant lands and encounters creatures from the magic of his purple crayon. The simple illustrations are perfect for young readers, and teaching them the importance of imagination!
STELLALUNA
Written and Illustrated by Jannell Cannon
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Stellaluna is a classic picture book for intermediate readers about a newborn fruit bat who is separated from her mother and instead raised by a nest of birds. It is a beautiful story about identity, struggling with differences, and an overall classic for young readers.
collections
THE DR. SEUSS COLLECTION
Written and Illustrated by Dr. Seuss
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​The Dr. Seuss Collection is a classic children's literature series with fun illustrations and clever rhymes. These renowned stories are guaranteed to give children a positive reading experience while simultaneously helping them develop fundamental reading skills!
CLIFFORD
Written and Illustrated by Norman Bridwell
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Read about the America's favorite dog, Clifford, in this entertaining book collection! The Clifford collection is a classic children's literature series that is treasured by all. The books address the importance of friendship, teamwork, love, and more!
THE BERENSTEIN BEARS
Written and Illustrated by Jan, Stan, and Mike Berenstain​
​The Berenstain bears is a famous classic children’s literature collection with 300 titles that have sold over 260 million copies worldwide. The books teach children the importance of family and working together to solve life's unique challenges!
FRANKLIN
Written by Paulette Bourgeois & Illustrated by Brenda Clark​
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The Franklin collection is cherished by young readers around the world, not only for its stories but for its beautiful illustrations! The Franklin collection follows the adventures of a young turtle and is a perfect read for children who need help coming out of their own shells.
MADELINE
Written and Illustrated by Ludwig Bemelmans
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​ The Madeline collection follows a small orphan girl in Paris, France. It is best known for its great illustrations. Each page of the entire collection exhibits meticulous drawings that make the story come to life. This collection teaches the importance of bravery and staying true to yourself.
FRANCES
Written by Russel Hoban & Illustrated by Lillian Hoban​
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The Frances collection centers around America's favorite badger as she solves problems, talks with her friends, and eats all the bread and jam in the world! This fun read is perfect for children who are starting to read more advanced text while still enjoying colorful illustrations.
collections
MAGIC TREE HOUSE
Written by Mary Pope Osbourne
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​ The Magic Tree House series follows two young children as they go on fantastical trips around the world. The well-known series is not only educational, but has an excellent blend between images and words that will help ease young readers into chapter books!
JUNIE B. JONES
Written by Barbara Park & Illustrated by Lillian Hoban
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This series is bound to make kids laugh! The Junie B. Jones books have a good mix of pictures and words perfect for young readers starting to transition into chapter books. Light and sprinkled with silly humor, this series is guaranteed to spark up an enjoyment of reading in children.