Books about greed

Artemis Fowl is a groundbreaking middle-grade novel that flips the traditional hero's journey on its head. Meet twelve-year-old Artemis Fowl, a brilliant criminal mastermind and millionaire who discovers that fairies are real—and they are far from the delicate creatures found in bedtime stories. Armed with high-tech weaponry and ancient magic, the fairy world is a formidable opponent. Artemis kidnaps Captain Holly Short of the LEPrecon Unit to ransom her for gold, sparking a high-stakes battle of wits between a young genius and an underground civilization.

This book is the perfect choice for children who love fast-paced heists, clever protagonists, and a unique blend of magic and technology. Ideal for readers interested in anti-heroes and complex world-building, Eoin Colfer’s masterpiece offers a witty and action-packed adventure that keeps readers guessing until the very end. It is a great choice for fans of Percy Jackson or Alex Rider who are looking for something with a bit more of a 'bad boy' edge and sophisticated humor.

Highlights:

• A unique blend of traditional folklore and cutting-edge science fiction technology.
• An unconventional protagonist who is a brilliant, calculating criminal mastermind.
• Fast-paced action and clever dialogue that appeals to reluctant readers.
• Explores complex themes of environmentalism, greed, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

Bone: The Dragonslayer is the fourth installment in Jeff Smith's legendary graphic novel epic. As the valley edges closer to an all-out war, the stakes have never been higher for Fone Bone, Thorn, and Gran'ma Ben. While they face off against the terrifying Kingdok, leader of the rat creatures, the ever-scheming Phoney Bone is up to his old tricks. He manages to convince the fearful townspeople of Barrelhaven that he is a legendary dragonslayer, creating a dangerous situation where the valley's true protectors are sidelined by his greedy deceptions.

This volume perfectly balances high-stakes fantasy adventure with the laugh-out-loud humor that the Bone series is known for. It is an ideal choice for readers who love immersive world-building, complex characters, and the visual storytelling of high-quality graphic novels. Parents looking for a series that grows with their child will find this a perfect bridge between lighthearted fun and epic storytelling. It's a great choice for fans of Amulet or Wings of Fire who are looking for their next obsession.

Highlights:

• Epic fantasy world-building with a unique blend of cartoon humor and dark adventure.
• Compelling character development as Thorn discovers more about her mysterious past.
• High-stakes tension as the threat of the Lord of the Locusts begins to loom larger.
• Stunning illustrations that bring the valley and its mythical creatures to life.

Bone: The Great Cow Race is the second installment in Jeff Smith's legendary graphic novel saga, blending high-stakes fantasy with laugh-out-loud comedy. In this volume, the three Bone cousins—earnest Fone, goofy Smiley, and the ever-scheming Phoney Bone—find themselves in the middle of the annual Spring Fair. While Phoney attempts to fix the town's famous cow race to clear his debts, Fone Bone tries to navigate his feelings for Thorn and the looming threat of the mysterious Rat Creatures. It is a masterclass in visual storytelling that captures the imagination of readers young and old.

This book is perfect for children who love epic adventures mixed with slapstick humor. It serves as an ideal bridge for reluctant readers who enjoy the fast-paced nature of comics but crave a deep, immersive world. Parents will appreciate the sophisticated character development and the timeless hero's journey narrative. Whether your child is a fan of Amulet or Wings of Fire, the whimsical yet dangerous world of the Valley is a great choice for a rainy afternoon read.

Highlights:

• A hilarious and high-stakes cow race featuring the indomitable Gran'ma Ben.
• The introduction of deeper lore and the menacing, yet often silly, Rat Creatures.
• Dynamic illustrations that bring the expressive Bone cousins to life.
• A perfect blend of lighthearted mischief and growing fantasy tension.

In the eighth volume of Jeff Smith's epic saga, Bone: Treasure Hunters, the stakes have never been higher. The Bone cousins—Fone, Phoney, and Smiley—alongside Gran'ma Ben and Thorn, finally reach the ancient city of Atheia. As they prepare for a final stand against the terrifying Lord of the Locusts, the atmosphere is thick with tension. Thorn is plagued by increasingly dark and threatening visions, while Phoney Bone remains hilariously distracted by his relentless pursuit of gold, convinced that Atheia is a treasure trove waiting to be plundered.

This installment is perfect for children who love high-stakes fantasy mixed with slapstick humor. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in complex world-building and character-driven stories. The blend of classic cartooning with a sophisticated, dark fantasy plot makes it a great choice for reluctant readers and graphic novel enthusiasts alike. Fans of the series will be gripped by the mounting suspense as the heroes face their destiny in a city on the brink of war.

Highlights:

• A masterful blend of epic fantasy and lighthearted comedy.
• Stunning artwork that brings the mysterious world of Atheia to life.
• Deepening character arcs as Thorn confronts her mysterious past and powers.
• High-stakes adventure that keeps readers turning pages until the very end.

Step into a world of pure imagination with Roald Dahl's timeless masterpiece, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. This beloved classic tells the story of Charlie Bucket, a kind-hearted boy living in poverty who defies the odds by finding a Golden Ticket. Along with four other children—each with their own humorous but cautionary character flaws—Charlie embarks on a once-in-a-lifetime tour of Willy Wonka's mysterious and magical chocolate factory. From the Chocolate Room with its edible grass to the Inventing Room filled with Everlasting Gobstoppers, the story is a feast for the senses and the soul.

This book is perfect for children who love whimsical adventures and stories where kindness and honesty are rewarded. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in magical worlds, quirky characters, and lighthearted humor. Parents will appreciate the subtle moral lessons woven into the narrative, making it a great choice for family read-alouds or independent reading. Fans of magical realism and inventive storytelling will find themselves captivated by Wonka's eccentric genius and the Oompa-Loompas' witty songs.

Highlights:

• A magical journey through an inventive and edible world.
• Memorable characters that teach important lessons about behavior and virtue.
• Humorous and engaging prose that keeps young readers hooked.

Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator is the whimsical and wild sequel to the beloved Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. After winning Willy Wonka's factory, Charlie Bucket and his family find themselves hurtling through the atmosphere in a giant glass elevator. This imaginative journey takes them from the heights of a space hotel to the depths of Minusland, facing off against terrifying Vermicious Knids and experimenting with Wonka-Vite. It is a perfect choice for children who love zany adventures, eccentric characters, and the signature dark humor of Roald Dahl.

Ideal for readers interested in science fiction mixed with fantasy, this book continues the story of Charlie's humble family as they navigate the absurdities of Mr. Wonka's inventions. Parents looking for a classic read-aloud or a book to encourage independent reading will find this story engaging and fast-paced. It is a great choice for fans of The BFG or James and the Giant Peach who want to see what happens next to Charlie Bucket.

Highlights:

• A thrilling space adventure featuring the iconic Great Glass Elevator.
• Introduces memorable villains like the shape-shifting Vermicious Knids.
• Explores themes of family loyalty and the consequences of greed.
• Filled with Quentin Blake's classic illustrations and Dahl's inventive wordplay.

In diesem zeitlosen Klassiker von Janosch begeben sich der kleine Bär und der kleine Tiger auf eine spannende Reise, um das größte Glück der Erde zu finden: einen echten Schatz. Getrieben von Träumen über Reichtum, Gold und edle Dinge graben sie fast die ganze Welt um und begegnen dabei verschiedenen Tieren, die ihre ganz eigene Sicht auf das Glück haben. Doch auf ihrem beschwerlichen Weg durch tiefe Wälder und über weite Flüsse stellen sie fest, dass materieller Besitz oft flüchtig ist und das wahre Glück ganz woanders verborgen liegt. Diese herzerwärmende Geschichte ist perfekt für Kinder, die Abenteuer lieben und gerne gemeinsam mit ihren Eltern über die wirklich wichtigen Dinge im Leben nachdenken.

Janoschs unverwechselbarer Illustrationsstil und sein humorvoller, philosophischer Erzählton machen dieses Buch zu einem idealen Vorleseerlebnis für die ganze Familie. Es ist eine großartige Wahl für junge Leser, die sich für Themen wie Zufriedenheit, Teilen und bedingungslosen Zusammenhalt interessieren. Eltern schätzen die pädagogisch wertvolle Botschaft, dass man gemeinsam jede Hürde meistern kann und dass das größte Abenteuer oft direkt vor der eigenen Haustür in der Geborgenheit des Zuhauses beginnt. Ein Muss für jedes Kinderzimmer, das Generationen von Lesern verbindet.

Highlights:

• Ein absoluter Kinderbuchklassiker mit den weltweit beliebten Charakteren Tiger und Bär.
• Vermittelt auf kindgerechte Weise wichtige Werte wie Genügsamkeit und Loyalität.
• Wunderschöne, detailreiche Illustrationen des Autors, die zum Verweilen und Entdecken einladen.
• Ideal als Vorlesegeschichte für gemütliche Abende oder für erste eigenständige Leseversuche.
• Fördert die emotionale Intelligenz und das Verständnis für zwischenmenschliche Beziehungen.

Little Thieves is a brilliantly irreverent and dark retelling of the classic fairy tale "The Goose Girl." The story follows Vanja Schmidt, a scrappy maid who has stolen the life of a princess to escape a debt to her otherworldly mothers, Death and Fortune. Living a double life as both royalty and a jewel thief, Vanja's luck runs out when she crosses a god and receives a deadly curse. Now, she must pull off her biggest heist yet to break the spell before she turns into stone and jewels forever.

This YA fantasy is perfect for readers who love morally grey protagonists, witty banter, and intricate magic systems. Margaret Owen crafts a world where the stakes are high and the humor is sharp, making it an ideal choice for fans of high-stakes heists and complex character growth. With a cast of memorable characters, including a junior detective and a feral guardian, this book explores deep themes of identity, greed, and what it means to choose your own future.

Highlights:

• A clever and subversive retelling of "The Goose Girl" with a dark, modern twist.
• A complex, "wicked" protagonist that readers will root for despite her many flaws.
• Rich world-building featuring Low Gods, ancient curses, and high-stakes heists.
• Great choice for readers who enjoy fast-paced YA fantasy with a touch of black comedy.

Messenger is the haunting and beautiful third installment in Lois Lowry's acclaimed Giver Quartet. Set in a community known as Village—a place that once welcomed all—the story follows Matty, a young man who serves as a message-bearer through the increasingly dangerous and sentient Forest. As the people of Village begin to succumb to selfishness and vote to close their borders, Matty must embark on a final, perilous journey to bring the Seer’s daughter, Kira, home before the gates are shut forever. Along the way, he discovers a mysterious and selfless power within himself that could change everything.

This novel is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy thought-provoking dystopian fiction and stories that explore the weight of moral choices. Ideal for fans of The Giver and Gathering Blue, it masterfully blends elements of magical realism with a poignant social commentary on how fear can change a society. Parents looking for books that encourage deep discussions about empathy, sacrifice, and the environment will find this to be an essential addition to their child's library.

Highlights:

• A compelling bridge between the worlds of The Giver and Gathering Blue.
• Explores profound themes of community, greed, and the healing power of self-sacrifice.
• Features a relatable protagonist discovering his unique place and purpose in a changing world.
• Written in Lois Lowry's signature simple yet evocative prose that resonates with all ages.

The Bad Beginning is the darkly humorous and delightfully miserable first installment in Lemony Snicket's world-renowned series. After a tragic house fire leaves the three Baudelaire siblings—Violet, Klaus, and Sunny—orphaned, they are sent to live with the treacherous Count Olaf. This villainous guardian is far more interested in the children's inheritance than their well-being, forcing the siblings to use their unique talents to escape his clutches. It is a perfect choice for children who love stories with clever protagonists, gothic atmospheres, and a touch of the macabre.

Ideal for readers interested in mysteries that don't always have a happy ending, this book stands out for its sophisticated vocabulary and meta-fictional narration. Parents looking for a series that encourages critical thinking and resilience will find the Baudelaires' adventures both entertaining and thought-provoking. Great choice for fans of Roald Dahl or Neil Gaiman, this classic tale of woe is a must-read for middle-grade audiences who appreciate wit and irony.

Highlights:

• Introduces three resourceful siblings with distinct skills: inventing, researching, and biting.
• Features a memorable, theatrical villain in the scheming Count Olaf.
• Uses a unique narrative voice that defines words and warns readers of the impending gloom.
• A fast-paced mystery that emphasizes the importance of family bonds and intellect.

The Enormous Crocodile is a wickedly funny tale from the legendary Roald Dahl, perfect for children who love stories about mischievous animals and clever tricks. The story follows a greedy crocodile who is determined to find a plump, juicy little child for his lunch. Boasting about his secret plans and clever tricks, the crocodile attempts to disguise himself in various hilarious ways to catch his prey. However, he soon discovers that the other animals in the jungle—including Humpy-Rumpy the Hippo and Trunky the Elephant—are not about to let him get away with his wicked schemes.

This classic story is an ideal choice for readers interested in humorous adventures and those transitioning from picture books to early chapter books. With Quentin Blake's iconic illustrations and Dahl's signature wit, it captures the imagination of young readers while teaching a satisfying lesson about greed and the power of working together. It is a great choice for a fun read-aloud session or for confident young readers to tackle on their own.

Highlights:

• Features Roald Dahl's trademark dark humor and playful language.
• Engaging illustrations by Quentin Blake that bring the jungle to life.
• A classic good vs. evil story where teamwork saves the day.
• Perfect length for a bedtime story or an early independent read.

The Ersatz Elevator is the sixth installment in the beloved and darkly comedic A Series of Unfortunate Events. In this chapter of their woeful lives, the Baudelaire orphans—Violet, Klaus, and Sunny—are sent to live in a massive penthouse apartment on 667 Dark Avenue. Their new guardians, Esmé and Jerome Squalor, are obsessed with what is "in" and what is "out," leading to a series of bizarre and dangerous situations. This book is perfect for children who love gothic mysteries, clever wordplay, and stories where resourceful children must outsmart eccentric villains.

As the siblings navigate a darkened staircase and investigate a mysterious "ersatz" elevator, they uncover a secret passageway and a plot involving their kidnapped friends, the Quagmire triplets. Lemony Snicket’s signature narrative style blends suspense with dry humor, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in atmospheric storytelling and complex vocabulary. Fans of the series will appreciate how the Baudelaires use their unique skills—inventing, researching, and biting—to face the ever-looming threat of Count Olaf.

Highlights:

• A suspenseful mystery involving secret passageways and hidden identities.
• The introduction of the stylishly villainous Esmé Squalor.
• Themes of resilience and sibling loyalty in the face of adversity.
• Witty, dark humor that engages both children and parents.

The Night Gardener is a chilling Victorian ghost story that is perfect for children who love atmospheric mysteries and spine-tingling suspense. Set in a crumbling English manor, the story follows two abandoned Irish siblings, Molly and Kip, who take jobs as servants to escape their past. However, they soon discover that the house is haunted by a mysterious spectre known as the Night Gardener and a cursed tree that grants wishes at a terrible price. This mesmerizing tale is ideal for readers interested in dark folklore and moral fables about the dangers of greed and the healing power of stories.

Jonathan Auxier’s exquisite writing creates a gothic atmosphere reminiscent of classic literature while remaining accessible for modern middle-grade readers. It is a great choice for fans of Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book or those who enjoy stories where courage and sibling bonds are tested against supernatural forces. Parents will appreciate the book’s deep themes of honesty and resilience, making it a rewarding read for both independent study and family discussions.

Highlights:

• A haunting Victorian setting filled with mystery and gothic charm.
• Strong focus on the bond between siblings and the importance of truth.
• A unique moral fable approach to a classic ghost story.
• Atmospheric illustrations that enhance the spooky reading experience.

The Westing Game is a timeless Newbery Medal-winning masterpiece that remains the gold standard for middle grade mystery. When sixteen unlikely people are invited to the reading of eccentric millionaire Samuel W. Westing's will, they find themselves players in a high-stakes game. Divided into pairs with a set of cryptic clues and $10,000, they must solve the puzzle of Westing's death to inherit his massive fortune. This book is perfect for children who love puzzles, logic games, and intricate plots where everyone has a secret to hide.

Ideal for readers interested in whodunit stories, Ellen Raskin’s classic combines wordplay, disguises, and a fascinating cast of characters ranging from a young track star to a precocious 13-year-old girl named Turtle. It is a great choice for developing critical thinking skills as readers try to piece together the clues alongside the characters. Whether your child is a fan of escape rooms or classic detective stories, this supersharp mystery offers a demanding but rewarding experience that keeps them guessing until the very last page.

Highlights:

• An intricate, puzzle-driven plot that encourages active problem-solving.
• A diverse cast of sixteen unique characters with overlapping secrets and motives.
• Masterful use of word games, aliases, and clever red herrings.
• A heartwarming exploration of how unlikely people can become a family.

Treasure Island is the quintessential pirate adventure that has defined the genre for over a century. The story follows young Jim Hawkins, who discovers a mysterious map leading to a hidden stash of gold. As Jim sets sail on the Hispaniola, he encounters a crew of colorful and dangerous characters, most notably the charismatic yet treacherous Long John Silver. This timeless tale is perfect for children who love high-seas excitement, secret maps, and the thrill of a classic quest. It remains an ideal choice for readers interested in historical fiction and legendary maritime lore.

Beyond the action-packed plot, this novel is a profound coming-of-age story. Jim must navigate a world of moral ambiguity, learning to distinguish between true friends and silver-tongued villains. The book’s rich vocabulary and evocative descriptions make it a great choice for developing readers looking to challenge themselves with a literary masterpiece. Whether it is the suspense of a mutiny or the mystery of the 'X' on the map, Treasure Island captivates the imagination and provides a foundational reading experience for every young adventurer.

Highlights:

• The iconic introduction of Long John Silver and classic pirate tropes.
• A suspenseful plot filled with mutiny, treasure hunts, and survival.
• A compelling coming-of-age journey for protagonist Jim Hawkins.