Books about persistence

For Whom the Ball Rolls is the seventh installment in the wildly popular Dog Man series by Dav Pilkey. In this hilarious graphic novel, the Supa Buddies are working hard to help Dog Man overcome his bad habits. However, when his obsessions turn into paralyzing fears, our hero finds himself vulnerable to a brand-new supervillain. This book is a perfect choice for children who love fast-paced action, slapstick humor, and engaging illustrations that make reading feel like a treat rather than a chore.

While the laughs are non-stop, the story also dives into deeper emotional territory. Petey the Cat, having been released from jail, is trying to build a better life with Li'l Petey. When Petey's own father unexpectedly arrives, the story explores the complexities of family and the difference between being good and doing good. It is an ideal for readers interested in superhero parodies that also offer heart and meaningful life lessons about empathy and persistence.

Highlights:

• Engaging graphic novel format that motivates reluctant readers.
• Explores positive themes like kindness, redemption, and facing one's fears.
• Features the beloved Flip-O-Rama animation technique in every chapter.
• Great choice for fans of Captain Underpants and The Bad Guys.

Frindle is a beloved modern classic that explores the incredible power of language and the impact one creative idea can have on the world. Nick Allen is a fifth-grader known for his clever schemes to liven up the classroom. However, when he decides to rename a simple pen a "frindle," he sparks a movement that grows far beyond his school's walls. This witty and thought-provoking story is perfect for children who love school-based humor and stories about clever kids who challenge the status quo.

Ideal for readers interested in how words are made and the dynamics between students and teachers, Andrew Clements delivers a fast-paced tale that is both funny and surprisingly deep. It is a great choice for classroom read-alouds or independent reading for those transitioning into longer chapter books. Fans of realistic fiction will appreciate the relatable school setting and the respectful yet spirited battle of wits between Nick and his teacher, Mrs. Granger.

Highlights:

• A clever exploration of linguistics and how language evolves.
• Relatable school setting with a focus on student-teacher dynamics.
• Encourages creative thinking, individuality, and intellectual curiosity.
• A fast-paced, engaging plot that keeps young readers hooked.

Dog Man is back in Grime and Punishment, the ninth installment of Dav Pilkey's sensationally popular graphic novel series. In this adventure, the Supa Buddies have successfully outsmarted the villains, but Dog Man faces a brand-new challenge that requires the help of his entire pack. As he navigates through hilarious mishaps and high-stakes action, readers are treated to a story that is as heart-warming as it is funny. This book is perfect for children who love slapstick humor, vibrant illustrations, and stories about unlikely heroes.

Ideal for readers interested in fast-paced storytelling and comic-book style layouts, Dav Pilkey continues to masterfully blend silly antics with meaningful life lessons. Grime and Punishment explores universally positive themes like empathy, kindness, and the importance of persistence. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who are drawn to the visual format and engaging characters of the Dog Man universe.

Highlights:

• Features the beloved half-dog, half-policeman hero and his team of Supa Buddies.
• Combines laugh-out-loud humor with deep emotional themes like empathy and doing good.
• Includes "Flip-O-Rama" sequences and drawing tutorials for interactive fun.
• A must-read for fans of Captain Underpants and The Bad Guys.

Mothering Heights is the tenth installment in the sensationally popular Dog Man series by Dav Pilkey. In this heart-pounding and hilarious adventure, Dog Man and his friends face new challenges that test their grit and their hearts. As the city faces a new threat, our heroes must rely on more than just their superpowers; they need empathy, kindness, and the strength of their bond to save the day. This book is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, silly humor, and vibrant illustrations that bring every page to life.

Ideal for readers interested in graphic novels that balance slapstick comedy with surprisingly deep emotional themes, this volume explores the importance of family—both the kind we are born into and the kind we choose. Parents will appreciate the positive messages about persistence and doing good, while kids will be glued to the page by the "Flip-O-Rama" sequences and the quirky characters they've come to love. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who need an engaging, visual story to spark their love of books.

Highlights:

• Explores deep themes of empathy and redemption through the lens of Li'l Petey and Grampa.
• Features the signature "Flip-O-Rama" animation style that makes reading interactive and fun.
• Perfect for fans of Captain Underpants and other high-energy graphic novel series.
• Encourages emotional intelligence and persistence in the face of adversity.