Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made, by Stephan Pastis. Clueless, awkward detective Timmy Failure + polar bear sidekick = Total Failure Inc., ready to solve any mystery. Funny and fast-paced but filled with a heartwarming and relatable message: Be confident in who you are. Perfect for Wimpy Kid fans, with hilarious drawings to boot! First in a series.
The Hero’s Guide to Storming the Castle, by Christopher Healy; illus. by Todd Harris. This sequel to The Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom is another hilarious and action-packed story of the Princes Charming and their escapades. Everyone I have recommended this book to has loved it!
The False Prince, by Jennifer Nielsen. Sage, a young orphan, is unknowingly facing his destiny – and danger lurks at every turn. This gripping tale of four boys, one treacherous plan, and entire kingdom to fool is a great page-turner for girls and boys alike. Book 1 of a trilogy.
The Year of the Baby, by Andrea Cheng; illus. by Patrice Barton. Anna Wang is worried that her newly adopted baby sister Kaylee from China isn’t gaining weight and decides to make Kaylee the subject of a science fair project.
Stella Batts Needs a New Name, by Courtney Sheinmel and Jennifer Bell. Stella Batts is eight years old and loves to write. She loves to write lists; like her favorite things and kids in her class. In fact, she’s writing an autobiography. Her favorite color is yellow and she loves to eat fudge. This book is one in a series about this engaging character.
Lulu series, by Hilary McKay. Lulu is allowed to have many animals as pets as long as she is responsible for them. She and her cousin Mellie come across funny scenarios where Lulu wants to take home all the animals she meets. Perfect for any pet lover!
Kelsey Green, Reading Queen, by Claudia Mills; illus. by Rob Shepperson. Kelsey Kline is the best reader in third grade — well, maybe tied for best with know-it-all Simon Ellis. When the principal announces a school-wide reading contest, Kelsey is ready to compete! This book is Book 1 in the Franklin School Friends series.
