Books about problem-solving

Join Jack and Annie on a high-stakes journey back to 1861 Washington, D.C. in Abe Lincoln at Last! As part of the beloved Magic Tree House Merlin Mission series, this installment takes young readers into the heart of the American Civil War. Jack is eager to meet the legendary Abraham Lincoln, but the president is overwhelmed by the weight of a nation in crisis. It is up to the time-traveling siblings to find a way to help the president and ensure history stays on track.

This book is perfect for children who love history mixed with a touch of magic. It serves as an ideal introduction to American history, making complex topics like the Civil War accessible and engaging for transitional readers. Parents looking for educational yet thrilling stories will find this a great choice for building reading stamina and historical curiosity. Whether your child is a long-time fan of Jack and Annie or new to the series, this presidential adventure offers a compelling blend of facts and fantasy.

Highlights:

• Engaging introduction to Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War era.
• Part of the bestselling Magic Tree House Merlin Mission series for experienced readers.
• Combines time-travel fantasy with well-researched historical facts.
• Encourages themes of perseverance and civic duty.

Step into the Land of Ooo with Adventure Time, Vol. 3, a deluxe hardcover edition that brings the beloved animated series to life on the page. This volume is a must-have for young readers who enjoy high-energy stories filled with wit and wonder. The collection features a unique “Choose-Your-Own-Adventure-Time” story where readers get to decide the path Finn and Jake take, making it an interactive and engaging experience for even the most reluctant readers. From battling bizarre monsters to exploring hidden kingdoms, the fun never stops in this mathematical collection.

In this volume, the stakes get personal when BMO, the lovable video game console friend, falls ill. Finn the human and Jake the dog must shrink down and travel inside BMO to save their friend, leading to one of their strangest and most imaginative adventures yet. This book is perfect for children who love the Adventure Time TV show or are fans of humorous graphic novels like Dog Man or The Bad Guys. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in friendship, surreal humor, and epic quests.

Highlights:

• Interactive “Choose-Your-Own-Adventure” format that encourages multiple readings and engagement.
• Vibrant, high-quality illustrations that perfectly capture the unique art style of the Land of Ooo.
• Heartwarming themes of friendship and loyalty between Finn, Jake, and their friend BMO.
• A great choice for fans of media tie-in comics and fast-paced, funny storytelling.

Adventure Time, Vol. 5 brings readers back to the whimsical and unpredictable Land of Ooo, but this time, the stakes are personal for Princess Bubblegum. When one of her scientific experiments goes haywire, the entire kingdom is put at risk. With Finn and Jake unavailable to save the day, the Princess must step up, take responsibility for her mistake, and use her wit and bravery to protect her friends and her people. This volume offers a refreshing shift in focus, highlighting the strength and ingenuity of one of the series' most beloved female characters.

Perfect for children who love fast-paced graphic novels and fans of the hit animated series, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about science, leadership, and fixing one's own mistakes. The vibrant artwork and witty dialogue by Ryan North make it a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy humor mixed with high-stakes action. Parents will appreciate the positive messages about accountability and problem-solving found within these colorful pages.

Highlights:

• Features Princess Bubblegum in a rare solo lead role, showcasing her scientific skills.
• Action-packed plot that explores the consequences of scientific curiosity.
• Vibrant, expressive illustrations that capture the unique style of the Land of Ooo.
• Humorous and engaging dialogue suitable for middle-grade readers.

Book Scavenger is an exhilarating literary mystery that turns the city of San Francisco into a giant treasure hunt. Twelve-year-old Emily is a die-hard fan of Garrison Griswold’s 'Book Scavenger' game, where players solve complex ciphers to find hidden books. When she moves to the city where the game began, she expects adventure, but she doesn't expect to find her idol in a coma and a secret, unpublished game in her hands. Alongside her new puzzle-loving friend James, Emily must race against time and dangerous rivals to decode the mystery Griswold left behind.

This novel is a perfect choice for children who love Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library or The Westing Game. It seamlessly blends real-world geography and literary history with high-stakes suspense, making it an ideal read for young fans of codes, ciphers, and secret messages. Parents will appreciate how the story encourages critical thinking, teamwork, and a deep love for reading and libraries.

Highlights:

• Engaging puzzles and ciphers that readers can solve along with the characters.
• A fast-paced mystery set against the vibrant backdrop of San Francisco.
• Strong themes of friendship, intellectual curiosity, and perseverance.
• Perfect for readers who enjoy interactive stories and literary scavenger hunts.

In Carnival at Candlelight, Jack and Annie are whisked away by the Magic Tree House to the enchanting city of Venice, Italy, during the 1700s. Tasked with a special Merlin Mission, the siblings must use their wits, a book of magic rhymes, and a set of mysterious instructions to save the beautiful city from a catastrophic flood. This installment is perfect for children who love blending real-world history with a touch of fantasy and suspense.

As they navigate the crowded streets during the famous Carnival, readers will be captivated by the atmospheric setting of gondolas and masquerade masks. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in European history and those who enjoy fast-paced adventures where young heroes save the day. Mary Pope Osborne expertly balances educational facts with an engaging plot, making it a great choice for building reading confidence in transitional readers who are ready for slightly longer stories.

Highlights:

• An exciting journey to 18th-century Venice during the world-famous Carnival.
• Combines historical facts with magical elements and high-stakes missions.
• Encourages problem-solving and teamwork through Jack and Annie's partnership.
• Perfect for fans of the Magic Tree House series looking for a more challenging adventure.

City Spies introduces readers to Sara Martinez, a talented 12-year-old hacker who finds herself in legal trouble after exposing her foster parents' crimes. Just as things look bleak, she is recruited by a mysterious British man known only as Mother. Sara is whisked away to a secret base in Scotland to join an elite team of five kids from around the world. Together, these young agents must use their unique skills—from code-breaking to sleight of hand—to go undercover and stop a dangerous international threat at a youth summit in Paris.

This fast-paced spy thriller is perfect for children who love high-stakes missions, clever puzzles, and stories about found families. James Ponti crafts a world where intelligence and teamwork are the ultimate superpowers, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in mystery and global adventure. Fans of the Spy School series or The Mysterious Benedict Society will find themselves immediately hooked by the witty dialogue and the diverse cast of relatable characters.

Highlights:

• A diverse team of five young spies from different global backgrounds.
• Intricate puzzles and high-tech hacking that challenge the reader's mind.
• Strong focus on the importance of teamwork and finding where you belong.
• Exciting international settings that bring geography and culture to life.

Dawn and the Impossible Three is a vibrant graphic novel adaptation of the classic series by Ann M. Martin, brought to life with modern flair by Gale Galligan. This story follows Dawn Schafer, the newest member of the Baby-sitters Club, as she takes on her toughest assignment yet: the three Barrett kids. Between managing a chaotic household, navigating new friendships in Stoneybrook, and dealing with her own family changes, Dawn has her hands full. It is a perfect choice for children who love stories about friendship, responsibility, and growing up.

Ideal for readers interested in realistic fiction and relatable middle-grade drama, this book captures the ups and downs of being a young entrepreneur. Fans of Raina Telgemeier and the original Baby-sitters Club series will appreciate the expressive artwork and the heartfelt portrayal of the bond between the club members. It is a great choice for encouraging independent reading through the engaging graphic novel format.

Highlights:

• Relatable themes of navigating new environments and making friends.
• Engaging graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners and reluctant readers.
• Strong focus on problem-solving, responsibility, and teamwork.
• A modern update to a beloved classic series that parents and children can share.

Der kleine Drache Kokosnuss ist zurück in einem stürmischen Abenteuer! Eigentlich hatten sich Kokosnuss und seine Freunde auf sonnige Tage am Strand der Dracheninsel gefreut. Doch die griesgrämige Wetterhexe Gula macht ihnen einen Strich durch die Rechnung: Sie überzieht die Insel mit Dauerregen und heftigen Gewittern. Wer sich über das schlechte Wetter beschwert, riskiert, von Gula in ein Hagelkorn verwandelt zu werden. Doch Kokosnuss lässt sich den Sommer nicht so einfach verhageln!

Mit viel Mut, einer ordentlichen Portion Drachenlist und der Hilfe seiner besten Freunde stellt sich Kokosnuss der Hexe entgegen. Ingo Siegners beliebte Kinderbuchreihe kombiniert spannende Unterhaltung mit wertvollen Lektionen über Zusammenhalt. Dieses Buch ist ideal für junge Leser, die Geschichten über magische Wesen und pfiffige Helden lieben. Die Mischung aus Text und liebevollen Illustrationen macht es zum perfekten Begleiter für den Übergang vom Vorlesen zum ersten Selberlesen.

Highlights:

• Spannendes Abenteuer mit dem beliebten Drachen Kokosnuss
• Fördert Mut und kreative Problemlösung bei Kindern
• Perfekt zum Vorlesen oder für Erstleser geeignet
• Wunderschöne, farbige Illustrationen vom Autor Ingo Siegner

Kyle Keeley is the ultimate gamer, so when he learns that the world's most famous game maker, Luigi Lemoncello, has designed the town's brand-new library, he is determined to be one of the lucky few invited to the opening night lock-in. But the real game begins when the doors stay locked the next morning. Kyle and his teammates must solve a series of complex riddles, find hidden clues, and navigate the high-tech library to find the secret escape route before time runs out.

This New York Times bestseller is perfect for children who love puzzles, escape rooms, and scavenger hunts. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in interactive mysteries where they can try to solve the clues alongside the characters. Often compared to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, this book celebrates the joy of libraries and the power of teamwork, making it a great choice for classroom read-alouds or independent reading.

Highlights:

• Engaging, interactive puzzles that challenge the reader's logic and wit.
• A fast-paced plot that keeps reluctant readers hooked from start to finish.
• A wonderful celebration of books, libraries, and the Dewey Decimal System.
• Strong emphasis on collaboration and using individual strengths to solve problems.

Forbidden City is the thrilling third installment in James Ponti's bestselling City Spies series. This high-stakes adventure follows a diverse team of five talented young agents recruited by MI6 as they travel to Beijing, China. Tasked with infiltrating a billionaire's inner circle during an international youth chess tournament, the team must use their unique skills in hacking, linguistics, and strategy to prevent a global nuclear threat. It is a perfect choice for children who love fast-paced action, clever puzzles, and international mysteries.

Ideal for readers interested in technology and global cultures, this book combines realistic spycraft with the relatable dynamics of a found family. Parents looking for engaging middle-grade fiction will appreciate the emphasis on critical thinking, research, and teamwork. Whether your child is a fan of the previous books or new to the series, this mission offers a captivating blend of humor and suspense that keeps readers turning pages until the very end. It is a great choice for fans of high-tech gadgets and global adventures.

Highlights:

• Action-packed international espionage set in iconic global locations like Beijing.
• A diverse cast of relatable characters with specialized skills in coding, chemistry, and tactics.
• Strong emphasis on teamwork, problem-solving, and cultural awareness.
• Perfect for fans of the Spy School series and The Mysterious Benedict Society.

In Framed, the third installment of Gordon Korman's high-stakes Swindle series, Griffin Bing—the "Man with a Plan"—finds himself in the ultimate predicament. When a priceless Super Bowl ring vanishes from his school's display case and his own retainer is left in its place, Griffin is the prime suspect. This fast-paced mystery is perfect for children who love clever heists, underdog stories, and a healthy dose of humor. As Griffin faces house arrest and an electronic anklet, he must rely on his loyal team of friends to clear his name and find the real thief.

Ideal for readers interested in detective stories and school-based adventures, this book keeps the tension high while maintaining a lighthearted tone. It is a great choice for fans of the 39 Clues or Diary of a Wimpy Kid who are looking for a bit more action and intrigue. With its relatable characters and engaging plot twists, Framed explores the importance of standing by your friends even when the odds are stacked against you.

Highlights:

• A thrilling "whodunit" mystery with high stakes and clever plot twists.
• Focuses on the power of teamwork and the loyalty of a close-knit group of friends.
• Features a relatable protagonist who must use his wits to overcome an unfair situation.
• Perfect for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced action and humor.

Join Claudia Kincaid and her younger brother Jamie on the ultimate urban adventure in E.L. Konigsburg’s Newbery Medal-winning classic, From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. Tired of the perceived injustices of being the eldest child and the monotony of her suburban life, Claudia decides to run away in style. Her destination? The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. With Jamie’s secret stash of money and Claudia’s meticulous planning, the duo navigates the halls of the Met, sleeping in antique beds and bathing in the museum fountain.

This timeless story is perfect for children who love mysteries and secret adventures. As the siblings settle into their new life, they encounter a beautiful statue that may be a lost work of Michelangelo. Their quest to uncover the truth leads them to the eccentric Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, whose "mixed-up files" hold the key to the mystery and to Claudia’s own sense of self. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in art, history, and stories about clever children outsmarting the world around them.

Highlights:

• A captivating mystery set within the world-famous Metropolitan Museum of Art.
• Explores relatable themes of sibling dynamics, independence, and the desire to be unique.
• Winner of the Newbery Medal and a staple of classic middle-grade literature.
• Perfect for fans of puzzle-solving stories and historical mysteries.

Jack and Annie are back for another thrilling journey in Ghost Town at Sundown, part of the beloved Magic Tree House series. This time, the magic tree house whisks the siblings away to the Wild West, where they find themselves in a deserted town that might just be haunted. As they search for the answer to a mysterious riddle, they encounter rattlesnakes, horse thieves, and a lonely cowboy named Slim. It is a perfect choice for children who love stories about cowboys, horses, and spooky mysteries.

Ideal for readers interested in American history and time-travel adventures, this book combines educational elements with fast-paced action. Parents will appreciate how Mary Pope Osborne weaves historical facts into an engaging narrative that encourages independent reading. Whether your child is a fan of the series or new to Jack and Annie's world, this installment offers a great mix of suspense and heart as the duo works together to help a lost colt and solve the mystery of the ghost town.

Highlights:

• Exciting Wild West setting featuring cowboys and outlaws.
• Engaging mystery that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.
• Perfect for early readers transitioning to independent chapter books.
• Educational themes centered on American frontier history.

In Golden Gate, the second thrilling installment of the City Spies series by James Ponti, a team of five brilliant young agents from around the world must head to San Francisco. After a close call in their previous mission, the spies—Sara, Kat, Paris, Sydney, and Brooklyn—are tasked with uncovering a mole within MI6 while simultaneously protecting the daughter of a billionaire at an exclusive private school. This high-stakes adventure blends international intrigue with the relatable challenges of growing up and working as a team.

Perfect for children who love fast-paced mysteries and clever gadgets, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in code-breaking, global travel, and stories about found families. James Ponti masterfully balances humor and suspense, making it a great choice for fans of the Gallagher Girls or Alex Rider series. The diverse cast and their unique skill sets ensure that every reader finds a character to root for as they navigate the foggy streets of San Francisco and the dangerous world of espionage.

Highlights:

• Action-packed plot featuring international locations and clever spycraft.
• Strong emphasis on teamwork and the unique strengths of each character.
• Engaging mystery that keeps readers guessing until the final pages.
• Diverse and relatable protagonists with distinct personalities and backgrounds.

Evan Ross thought he was done with the terrifying green slime known as Monster Blood, but a new nightmare is just beginning. In Goosebumps: Monster Blood IV, R.L. Stine delivers another spine-tingling adventure that is perfect for children who love spooky stories and supernatural mysteries. This time, the slime is blue, and it doesn't just grow—it multiplies into tiny, aggressive creatures with razor-sharp teeth! Evan must find a way to stop the blue menace before it takes over everything.

Ideal for readers interested in fast-paced horror and humorous twists, this book is a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy short chapters and high-stakes action. Fans of the classic Goosebumps series will appreciate the familiar blend of "safe" scares and imaginative monsters. It is a fantastic entry point for kids looking to explore the horror genre without being too overwhelmed, making it a staple for any middle-grade bookshelf.

Highlights:

• Features a unique new twist on the classic Monster Blood slime.
• Perfect for fans of creepy creatures and supernatural suspense.
• Fast-paced plot that keeps young readers engaged from start to finish.
• Written by the legendary master of children's horror, R.L. Stine.

In 'Gregs Tagebuch - Kein Plan von nix!' steht Greg Heffleys Welt Kopf. Seine Schule schneidet bei einem landesweiten Test so katastrophal ab, dass sie geschlossen werden soll. Was für Greg zunächst wie ein wahr gewordener Traum klingt – endlich keine Hausaufgaben und Mathetests mehr! –, entpuppt sich schnell als Albtraum. Er erfährt nämlich, dass er auf eine völlig andere Schule geschickt werden soll als sein bester Freund Rupert. Plötzlich muss Greg alles daran setzen, das drohende Aus seiner Schule zu verhindern.

Dieser 18. Band der Kultreihe von Jeff Kinney ist die perfekte Wahl für Kinder, die humorvolle Geschichten mit vielen Illustrationen lieben. Der einzigartige Mix aus Text und Comic-Elementen macht das Buch ideal für Leser, die sich für witzige Alltagsabenteuer und Schulgeschichten interessieren. Es ist ein großartiges Buch für alle, die gerne lachen und miterleben wollen, wie Greg mit kreativen (und oft chaotischen) Plänen versucht, seinen Kopf aus der Schlinge zu ziehen.

Highlights:

• Geniale Kombination aus Text und zahlreichen coolen Cartoons
• Spannende und urkomische Rettungsaktion der Schule
• Thematisiert die Bedeutung von Freundschaft und Zusammenhalt
• Leicht zugänglicher Schreibstil, perfekt auch für Lesemuffel

In "Gregs Tagebuch - Voll daneben!" steht die Welt von Greg Heffley mal wieder Kopf. Als die Heffleys überraschend eine Erbschaft machen, beschließen sie, ihr Haus großzügig zu renovieren. Doch was als spannendes Projekt beginnt, verwandelt sich schnell in ein handfestes Chaos. Von giftigem Schimmel über morsche Böden bis hin zu ungebetenen tierischen Gästen – Greg lernt auf die harte Tour, dass eine Baustelle kein Zuckerschlecken ist. Während der Staub fliegt, stellt sich die alles entscheidende Frage: Können sie ihr Zuhause retten oder steht sogar ein Umzug in eine andere Stadt bevor?

Dieser 14. Band der Kultserie ist die ideale Wahl für Kinder, die witzige Alltagsgeschichten und den einzigartigen Mix aus Text und Comic-Illustrationen lieben. Jeff Kinney versteht es meisterhaft, die kleinen und großen Katastrophen des Heranwachsens mit viel Humor zu schildern. Das Buch ist perfekt für Lesemuffel geeignet, da die kurzen Texte und lustigen Zeichnungen den Lesefluss fördern und für ständige Lacher sorgen. Ein tolles Geschenk für Leser, die sich für humorvolle Familiengeschichten interessieren.

Highlights:

• Turbulente Familiengeschichte rund um ein völlig missglücktes Renovierungsprojekt.
• Einzigartiger Comic-Roman-Stil, der auch weniger begeisterte Leser motiviert.
• Humorvolle und ehrliche Einblicke in Gregs chaotisches Gefühlsleben.
• Thematisiert Freundschaft und den Umgang mit großen, unerwarteten Veränderungen.

Princess Harriet Hamsterbone isn't your typical damsel in distress. In Hamster Princess: Little Red Rodent Hood, the sixth installment of Ursula Vernon's hilarious series, our fearsome warrior princess faces her spookiest challenge yet. When a pack of weasel-wolf monsters begs for help regarding a mysterious girl in a red cape haunting their forest, Harriet jumps into action. This book is a perfect choice for children who love fractured fairy tales, brave heroines, and stories that turn traditional tropes upside down.

Ideal for readers interested in funny adventures and strong female leads, this graphic-novel-hybrid style makes it an engaging read for both reluctant and avid readers. Harriet's wit and martial arts skills shine as she investigates the "sweet" little girl in the red cape, proving once again that appearances can be deceiving. Parents will appreciate the feminist themes and the clever subversion of gender stereotypes that make this series a standout in middle-grade fiction.

Highlights:

• A hilarious, feminist twist on the classic Little Red Riding Hood story.
• Features a strong, independent protagonist who solves problems with her brain and her sword.
• Perfect for fans of the Princess in Black or The Bad Guys looking for humor and action.
• Engaging hybrid format with illustrations that support the fast-paced narrative.

Princess Harriet Hamsterbone is not your typical damsel in distress. In Hamster Princess: Of Mice and Magic, Harriet finds herself looking for excitement after the local monsters retire. When a fairy tells her about twelve mice princesses cursed to dance all night, Harriet jumps at the chance for a new quest. Armed with her poncho of invisibility and her loyal battle quail, she sets off to solve the mystery. This hilarious retelling of 'The Twelve Dancing Princesses' is perfect for children who love fractured fairy tales and spunky, unconventional heroines.

Ideal for readers interested in funny adventures and graphic novel hybrids, Ursula Vernon’s second installment in the series combines witty dialogue with charming illustrations. It is a great choice for fans of The Bad Guys or The Princess in Black who are ready for a slightly longer, more complex story. Harriet’s bravery and refusal to follow traditional royal rules make her a fantastic role model for young readers who march to the beat of their own drum.

Highlights:

• A hilarious and empowering subversion of classic fairy tale tropes.
• Engaging hybrid format with illustrations that support the fast-paced narrative.
• Features a strong, independent female protagonist who loves cliff-diving and battle quails.
• Perfect for reluctant readers who enjoy humor and action-packed plots.

Hideout is the thrilling fifth installment in Gordon Korman's beloved Swindle series, bringing back Griffin Bing, "The Man With The Plan," and his loyal team of friends. In this high-stakes adventure, the stakes are personal: their former enemy, the unscrupulous S. Wendell Palomino (known as Swindle), has returned with a legal loophole to reclaim Luthor, the massive but lovable Doberman the kids rescued. To protect their furry friend, the group must orchestrate an elaborate disappearance, splitting up into secret hideouts to keep Luthor out of Swindle's clutches.

This book is perfect for children who love fast-paced heists, clever gadgets, and stories where kids outsmart the adults. Ideal for readers interested in animal rescue and teamwork, Korman blends humor with genuine tension, making it a page-turner for even the most reluctant readers. It is a great choice for fans of the 39 Clues or Masterminds series who enjoy seeing a diverse group of friends use their unique skills to solve a common problem.

Highlights:

• A suspenseful "heist-in-reverse" plot that keeps readers guessing.
• Strong emphasis on the bond between children and their pets.
• Features a diverse cast of characters with specialized skills like tech, animals, and athletics.
• Perfect balance of laugh-out-loud humor and exciting action sequences.

In High Time for Heroes, the beloved duo Jack and Annie embark on a thrilling Merlin Mission that takes them back in time to Thebes, Egypt. Tasked by Merlin the magician to find the legendary Florence Nightingale, the siblings are surprised to discover that the woman they meet isn't the famous nurse they expected. This historical adventure is perfect for children who love blending real-world history with magical elements and high-stakes mystery.

As Jack and Annie navigate the challenges of the past, they must use their wits and courage to determine if they have found the right person or if a mistake has been made. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in historical figures and those who enjoy fast-paced stories with educational value. It encourages curiosity about the world and the heroes who shaped it, making it a great addition to any young reader's library.

Highlights:

• Features the world-famous nurse Florence Nightingale in a unique historical setting.
• Combines magical fantasy elements with real historical facts about Egypt and nursing.
• Perfect for fans of the Magic Tree House series looking for a slightly more challenging read.
• Promotes themes of perseverance, critical thinking, and helping others.

Charmain Baker is a bookish girl who just wants some peace and quiet to read, but her life takes a magical turn when she agrees to house-sit for her great-uncle, a wizard. She soon discovers that the house is much larger on the inside, with doors that lead to different times and places. This enchanting sequel to Howl’s Moving Castle is perfect for children who love whimsical magic, eccentric characters, and clever puzzles.

As Charmain navigates the confusing corridors of the house, she finds herself responsible for a magical stray dog and a clumsy apprentice wizard. The stakes rise when she is caught up in a royal intrigue involving a terrifying creature called a lubbock and a search for the legendary Elfgift. Fans of the series will be delighted to see the return of the dashing Wizard Howl, the fiery Calcifer, and the formidable Sophie, who all join the fray to help save the kingdom.

Ideal for readers interested in complex magical worlds and witty storytelling, this book is a great choice for fans of classic fantasy authors like Eva Ibbotson or E. Nesbit. Diana Wynne Jones weaves a tale of self-discovery and responsibility that is both humorous and heart-pounding.

Highlights:

• A magical house with shifting rooms and hidden secrets.
• The return of beloved characters from Howl’s Moving Castle.
• A witty and relatable protagonist who grows in independence.
• A blend of high-stakes mystery and lighthearted humor.
• Perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli and classic British fantasy.

In Hurry Up, Houdini!, Jack and Annie embark on a magical journey to Coney Island at the turn of the 20th century. Tasked by Merlin the Magician to find the secret of greatness from the legendary Harry Houdini, the siblings must navigate the bustling crowds and dazzling spectacles of the amusement park. This Magic Tree House Merlin Mission is perfect for children who love blending real-world history with enchanting fantasy elements.

As Jack and Annie search for the elusive master of escape, they learn that greatness requires more than just magic—it takes incredible determination and the courage to face one's fears. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in famous historical figures and those who enjoy fast-paced mysteries. Parents will appreciate the educational value woven into the exciting narrative, making it a great choice for building reading confidence.

Highlights:

• Features the world-famous escape artist Harry Houdini.
• Explores the vibrant historical setting of Coney Island.
• Combines magic, mystery, and real historical facts.
• Part of the beloved, long-running Magic Tree House series.

Step into the high-stakes, pun-filled world of InvestiGators, where Mango and Brash are the best secret agents in the business—or at least the best ones who live in the sewers! Equipped with their top-secret V.E.S.T.s (Very Exciting Spy Technology), these two alligator detectives are on a mission to crack cases, stop supervillains, and maybe grab a cracker or two along the way. In their first adventure, they must go undercover to find a missing chef and stop a prehistoric threat from taking over the city.

This graphic novel is a fantastic choice for children who love fast-paced action combined with slapstick humor and clever wordplay. John Patrick Green’s vibrant illustrations and witty dialogue make it an ideal pick for reluctant readers or fans of series like Dog Man and The Bad Guys. It is a perfect blend of mystery and comedy that keeps young readers turning pages to see what wacky gadget the duo will use next. Parents will appreciate the positive messages about teamwork and the way the visual storytelling supports reading comprehension.

Highlights:

• Hilarious puns and wordplay that appeal to both kids and parents.
• Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence in young fans.
• Action-packed mystery plots featuring creative and silly spy gadgets.
• A dynamic duo protagonist relationship centered on cooperation and friendship.