Bad Badger: A Love Story by Maryrose Wood
This middle grade novel is a great cozy summer beach read, in so far as the main character is a badger that lives at the beach and enjoys cozy hobbies like listening to opera records and sipping tea on his porch at sunset. If this sounds unusual to you, it is, and the badger himself recognizes that he is not a typical member of his species. He figures that’s why he’s so alone. When a gull arrives on his porch one day, the badger suddenly has someone with whom to share his interests, his fears, and his everyday life. Just as the badger gets used to having company around, the gull disappears as suddenly as it appeared, leaving the badger to fear that he is just as bad at friendship as he is at being a badger. Check out this book to follow the badger on his adventure to find out what happened to his new friend.
Bad Badger: A Love Story is sweet and cozy, but also deep and introspective, which makes it a great choice for both child and adult readers. I would recommend this book as a family read aloud, because although the story would appeal to young readers (probably ages 8+), some of the vocabulary is fairly advanced. I listened to the audiobook version of this story on Libby, which is also a great option to make it accessible to young readers.
Super Fly Guy by Tedd Arnold
Fly Guy may be small, but he’s got some big tricks! This silly, energetic picture book follow Fly Guy as he proves that even a little fly can be a very impressive friend.
Buffalo Fluffalo by Bess Kalb
Buffalo Fluffalo is having a rough day and just wants to be himself. A funny, rhyming story about self-acceptance, friendship, and finding confidence in who you are.
Karen’s Sleepover by Ann M. Martin
Karen is thrilled to have a sleepover, but things don’t go quite as planned. This early chapter book captures the excitement, imagination, and little challenges that come with spending the night with friends.
The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle
A determined little spider works hard to build her web while the farm animals try to distract her. A colorful, repetitive story that introduces young readers to farm animals and the importance of perseverance.
How to Catch on Elf by Adam Wallace
A group of children sets out to catch a very clever elf on Christmas Eve. With playful rhymes, silly traps, and plenty of holiday fun, it’s a lighthearted read-aloud for little ones.
Make Way for Butterfly by Ross Burach
Butterfly is learning how to navigate the world while dealing with some very funny misunderstanding. A playful story about growing up, trying new things, and discovering what you’re capable of.
Bear Came Along by Richard Morris
A bear discovers a river and accidentally sets off on an adventure with a collection of other animals. A whimsical story about unexpected friendships and how our paths can bring us together.
Days with Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel
Frog and Toad spend their days together doing ordinary things that somehow become wonderful adventures. These gentle, funny stories celebrate friendship, everyday moments, and the joy of having a good companion.
Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
Part dog, part police officer, and completely ridiculous, Dog Man is ready to fight crime and cause plenty of chaos along the way. A hilarious graphic novel full of action, friendship and Dav Pilkey’s trademark humor.
