Click on the title (in blue) to see which books are available at the Wellesley Free Library!
Hot Rod Hamster and the Wacky Whatever Race! by
A new early reader series from dynamic duo, Newbery Honor author Cynthia Lord and NEW YORK TIMES bestselling illustrator Derek Anderson, featuring Hot Rod Hamster! Hot Rod Hamster LOVES to drive superfast. And today he's building a box car from scratch to race downhill in the Wacky Whatever Race. He needs to pick out a box, wheels, and a paint color for his car. Can you help him? With the same bouncing rhythms, fun choice rhymes, and daredevil antics that made the picture books so popular, this original Level 2 reader will be a sturdy stepping-stone for Hot Rod Hamster fans as well as series newcomers as they move on to independent reading. The years Ms. Lord spent as a first-grade teacher have given her the perfect sense for what language and storylines work best for emerging readers. This new adventure skillfully emphasizes word families and rhyming structures with pedal-to-the-metal flare! Little boys and girls will race to collect this latest story from their favorite furry friend. Hop into the early-reading driver's seat and join Hot Rod Hamster and his buddies for a fun-filled race day with a thrilling surprise at the finish line!
The Princess in Black by
Who says princesses don’t wear black? When trouble raises its blue monster head, Princess Magnolia ditches her flouncy dresses and becomes the Princess in Black! Princess Magnolia is having hot chocolate and scones with Duchess Wigtower when . . . Brring! Brring! The monster alarm! A big blue monster is threatening the goats! Stopping monsters is no job for dainty Princess Magnolia. But luckily Princess Magnolia has a secret —she’s also the Princess in Black, and stopping monsters is the perfect job for her! Can the princess sneak away, transform into her alter ego, and defeat the monster before the nosy duchess discovers her secret? From award-winning writing team of Shannon and Dean Hale and illustrator LeUyen Pham, here is the first in a humorous and action-packed chapter book series for young readers who like their princesses not only prim and perfect, but also dressed in black.
Tales of Bunjitsu Bunny by
Introducing Isabel, aka Bunjitsu Bunny! She is the BEST bunjitsu artist in her school, and she can throw farther, kick higher, and hit harder than anyone else! But she never hurts another creature . . . unless she has to. This series of brief stories about Isabel's adventures are a beguiling combination of child-friendly scenarios and Eastern wisdom perfect for the youngest readers.
Rotten Ralph's Rotten Family by
Rotten Ralph’s owner, Sarah, is fed up with her red rascal’s behavior. Ralph is tired of Sarah trying to change him. He misses his cat family, which never made him alter a thing about himself. But in this gag- and guffaw-filled adventure for newly independent readers, the world’s favorite rotten red cat gets tripped up when he runs away for a journey down memory lane.
Dory Fantasmagory by
Move over, Junie B. Jones and Ivy & Bean! Here comes a lovably energetic little sister with a BIG personality—and an imagination to match! As the youngest in her family, Dory really wants attention, and more than anything she wants her brother and sister to play with her. But she’s too much of a baby for them, so she’s left to her own devices—including her wild imagination and untiring energy. Her siblings may roll their eyes at her childish games, but Dory has lots of things to do: outsmarting the monsters all over the house, escaping from prison (aka time-out), and exacting revenge on her sister’s favorite doll.
My Happy Life by
A sweet, funny illustrated chapter book about a young girl with a lot of optimism-even if sometimes life makes it hard to be happy.
The Miniature World of Marvin and James by
In this Masterpiece Adventure, the first in a companion series for younger readers from bestselling author Elise Broach, James is going on vacation for a week. His best friend, Marvin the beetle, has to stay at home. Without James to keep him company, Marvin has to play with his annoying cousin, Elaine. Marvin and Elaine quickly find themselves getting into all sorts of trouble—even getting trapped inside a pencil sharpener!nbsp;Marvin misses James and starts to worry about their friendship.nbsp;Will James still be Marvin's friend when he gets home or will James have found a new best friend? nbsp; A Christy Ottaviano Book
Moo! by
When Cow gets her hooves on the farmer’s car, she takes it for a wild ride through the country. Moooo! But a bump in the road brings this joy ride to a troublesome end. Moo-moo. . . Has Cow learned her lesson about living life in the fast lane? Moo?Pairing two talented creators who managed to tell a complete story with just one word—MOO—this imaginative picture book will have readers laughing one moment and on the edge of their seats the next, as it captures the highs and lows of a mischievous cow’s very exciting day.
Alvin Ho by
Here's the first book in the beloved and hilarious Alvin Ho chapter book series, which has been compared to Diary of a Wimpy Kid and is perfect for both beginning and reluctant readers. Alvin, an Asian American second grader, is afraid of everything--elevators, tunnels, girls, and, most of all, school. He's so afraid of school that, while he' s there, he never, ever, says a word. But at home he's a very loud superhero named Firecracker Man, a brother to Calvin and Anibelly, and a gentleman-in-training, so he can be just like his dad.
Bad Kitty Drawn to Trouble by
In this seventh installment of the New York Times -bestselling series, Kitty encounters what may be her most formidable foe yet: her creator! Kitty soon learns that feline manipulation works both ways-especially when you're at the wrong end of your author's pencil. Along the way, Nick shows kids how a book is created, despite the frequent interruptions from you-know-who.
Bowling Alley Bandit by
As Mr. Bing's new pet "doughnut dog," Arnie couldn't be happier. When Mr. Bing joins a bowling league, Arnie gets to go along to practices and competitions. But then Mr. Bing starts rolling gutter balls. Someone or something is behind the madness. Arnie, together with his team of goofball friends, must sort through the shenanigans and solve the mystery. Get ready for some sleuthing and even some magic. Full of Laurie Keller's winning charm and silly humor, this chapter book--the first in the series--is sure to please her many fans. Bowling Alley Bandit is a Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2013
Charlie Bumpers vs. the Teacher of the Year by
Charlie Bumper's worst fear is confirmed: he has Mrs. Burke for fourth grade. how will he survive a year with the strictest teacher in the whole school? Shortly before school starts, Charlie Bumpers learns that he will be in Mrs. Burke's class. It doesn't matter that she's been named Teacher of the Year. He's still afraid of her. Last year when he was horsing around in the hall, he accidentally hit her in the head with his sneaker. (Don't ask.) How will he survive a year under a teacher who is just waiting for him to make another stupid mistake?
The Chicken Squad by
They're darling. They're daring. They know their shapes! They're chicks on a mission-and on this, their first (mis)adventure, the Chicken Squad launches a galactic backyard expedition. It's up to the Chicken Squad to crack a case that just might be out of this world.
Claude at the Circus by
The second book in an adorable series, featuring an ordinary dog who leads an extraordinary life! When Mr. and Mrs. Shinyshoes leave for the day, Claude and Sir Bobblysock take a walk in the park. While they are enjoying their outing, a woman calls for help, and they find themselves rescuing a runaway baby buggy - with the baby still inside! After their daring success, they are invited by The Amazing Alan to come see his circus. When the performers struggle with their acts, Claude and Sir Bobblysock must save the show.
Clementine by
Clementine is having not so good of a week. On Monday she's sent to the principal's office for cutting off Margaret's hair. Tuesday, Margaret's mother is mad at her. Wednesday, she's sent to the principal again. Thursday, Margaret stops speaking to her. Friday starts with yucky eggs and gets worse. And by Saturday, even her mother is mad at her. Okay, fine. Clementine is having a DISASTROUS week.
Dinos Are Forever by
“I am retiring from my life as a superhero and have enclosed my cape. Use it well. Sincerely, Uncle George.” Jo Schmo comes from a long line of crime fighters, but she’s just a normal fourth grade girl into boys and skateboards—until her uncle’s cape arrives on her San Francisco doorstep. Time to join the family business! Gramps shows Jo the tricks of the trade, and her dog, Raymond, becomes her slobbery sidekick. Just in time, too. Can Jo stop Dr. Dastardly and his deadly gang of dead dinos? Stay tuned for more adventures of Jo Schmo, complete with hilarious black-and-white illustrations.
Gooney Bird and All Her Charms by
“It’s March!” Mrs. Pidgeon said as she wrote the day’s date on the chalkboard. “In like a lion, out like a lamb!” The morning bell has rung at Watertower Elementary School, and it’s time for Mrs. Pidgeon’s class to turn to page 52 in their science books to learn about one of the most spectacular scientific subjects of all—the human body! As usual, Gooney Bird has a special plan to make learning more fun. But what on earth is in that scary-looking box that her uncle, Dr. Oglethorpe, has brought to the second grade? And what does it have to do with the charms on Gooney’s jingling silver bracelet? It looks as if another special story is in the works!
The Great Cake Mystery by
Have you ever said to yourself, Wouldn't it be nice to be a detective? This is the story of an African girl who says just that. Her name is Precious. When a piece of cake goes missing from her classroom, a traditionally built young boy is tagged as the culprit. Precious, however, is not convinced. She sets out to find the real thief. Along the way she learns that your first guess isn't always right. She also learns how to be a detective.
Heidi Heckelbeck and the Tie-Dyed Bunny by
Heidi brings home the class bunny over Easter weekend-and finds herself in a magical, colorful mess! Easter is just a few days away and Heidi Heckelbeck can't wait! The holiday weekend is even more special because it's Heidi's turn to take home Maggie, the school's bunny. But when Heidi takes Maggie out of her cage, trouble follows. Maggie escapes from Heidi's arms and runs through all of the Easter egg dye! Will Heidi figure out how to un-tie-dye the colorful bunny before she has to take her back to school? With easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, the Heidi Heckelbeck chapter books are perfect for beginning readers.
Jasper John Dooley by
When Jasper John Dooley realizes a can of Torpedo High Energy Drink has rolled out of the vending machine instead of the bottle of apple juice he selected, he knows he shouldn't drink it. His parents had warned him about these "Bad" drinks that were full of things like sugar and caffeine. Jasper was allowed sugary things only as a special treat and only after he had eaten good things. Like celery. But Jasper finds the allure of the ice-cold can irresistible. He just has to take a sip.
Jessica Finch in Pig Trouble by
Pee! Gee! Wee! Gee! What’s that sound? With her birthday coming up, Jessica hopes that, just maybe, her present will be a real-live potbellied pig. Jessica can hardly wait for her party with Judy Moody and all their friends. But Judy Moody is acting like a pig-head, and Jessica UN-invites her from the party. To make matters worse, Jessica has snooped around the house and has found zero sign of a pig present. Could her birthday be any more of a disaster? Geared to newly independent readers, this story will have Judy Moody fans in pig heaven.
Kung Pow Chicken #1: Let's Get Cracking! (a Branches Book) - Library Edition by
Kung Pow Chicken is the superhero everyone has been waiting for! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. In this exciting full-color series, Gordon Blue transforms into Kung Pow Chicken, an avian superhero who fights crime in the city of Fowladelphia. The first book in the series kicks off when Gordon's birdy senses lead him to a festival. Suddenly, POOF! Feathers fill the air and shivering naked chickens are everywhere. Why have all these chickens lost their feathers? Forced to wear wooly sweaters, the city itches for a hero. Kung Pow Chicken hops into his Beakmobile to save the day!
Max and Zoe at the Library by
Max is having trouble taking care of his library books, and Zoe is ready to help him. She explains that folding the pages into dog ears is not good book manners. Max needs to find a way to show the librarian that he has learned his lesson and will take better care of the books.
My Life As a Book by
Summer’s finally here, and Derek Fallon is looking forward to pelting the UPS truck with water balloons, climbing onto the garage roof, and conducting silly investigations. But when his parents decide to send him to Learning Camp, Derek’s dreams of fun come to an end. Ever since he’s been labeled a “reluctant reader,” his mom has pushed him to read “real” books—something other than his beloved Calvin & Hobbes. As Derek forges unexpected friendships and uncovers a family secret involving himself (in diapers! no less), he realizes that adventures and surprises are around the corner, complete with curve balls. My Life as a Book is a 2011 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.
The Mystery of the Suspicious Spices by
Ethan and Ella discover some suspicious spices in a market in Mumbai, India, in the sixth book of Greetings from Somewhere, an exciting series about mystery, travel, and adventure. Ethan and Ella venture into the bustling markets of Mumbai, India, where there are tons of beautiful sights and smells-from silky fabrics to bread being baked to jars of spices. When one of the spice sellers starts getting complaints about his saffron, he is beside himself. His spices have always been known to be the purest in the market. Ethan and Ella are on the case-and they soon discover that someone has been meddling with the spices! With easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, the Greetings from Somewhere chapter books are perfect for beginning readers.
Rotten Ralph by
In desperation, Sarah sends Rotten Ralph to feline finishing school. Will Ralph's mischief finally be a thing of the past? Rotten Ralph has been doing really rotten things for more than thirty years. Even when he’s been at his rottenest, his owner Sarah still manages to love him. Kids everywhere have loved reading about Ralph’s rotten—but loveable—antics.
Phoebe G. Green Lunch Will Never Be the Same! by
"Gently humorous black-and-white illustrations pair nicely with the text. With all the foodies out there, this delightful series deserves a long shelf life…and many more courses."--Kirkus Reviews "Fans of Junie B. Jones and Judy Moody . . . will enjoy this."--School Library Journal "Age-appropriate humor via an outspoken, lovable, take-charge narrator. Dreidemy’s wiggly spot illustrations, meanwhile, supply plenty of nervous energy."--Booklist Phoebe loves her pet fish, Betty #2 (named after Betty #1, may she rest in peace), making lists, and her best friend Sage. But when Camille, a tall French girl, arrives at school with unusual lunches, Phoebe’s friendship with Sage doesn’t seem so important anymore. Thanks to Camille, Phoebe discovers goat cheese, butter lettuce, and cilantro (although she’s convinced that’s not a real word). She’s determined to get invited to her new friend’s house for dinner to see what other mysterious food Camille eats. But what about Sage? Can Phoebe make a new friend and keep an old one?
Princess Posey and the First Grade Parade by
Posey is really nervous about starting first grade. Instead of getting walked to her classroom, her mom has to drop her off at the Kiss-and-Go Lane. Then she'll have to walk into school and face the Monster of the Blue Hall all by herself. Worst of all, she has to do it without the one thing that always makes her feel brave and special: the tutu that turns her into the Pink Princess. But when Posey inspires her new teacher to throw a first-day parade in which all the kids are invited to wear whatever makes them feel the most comfortable, first grade starts to look a lot more promising. Posey will charm readers just graduating from easy-to-reads (and from kindergarten). Make reading sparkle with all of the Princess Posey chapter books!
Rise of the Balloon Goons by
Monsters + Humour + Fun = The Notebook of Doom! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line, Branches. Aimed at 5- to 7-year-olds, this line of books is for children who are just starting to read independently. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! Alexander has just moved to a new town where he is about to uncover all sorts of monsters! He finds an old notebook with the word "DOOM" inscribed on the front cover. The Notebook of Doom, which Alexander now holds, contains top secret information about monsters! In this first book, Alexander goes up against spooky balloon goons -- unique and twisted arm-waving balloon men! This book is full of humour, engaging black-and-white illlustrations, and of course . . . monsters!
Secret Agent Jack Stalwart by
InThe Escape of the Deadly Dinosaur, Jack zooms to the city that never sleeps to try to solve the mystery of the missing Allosaurus toe. Starting at the Natural History Museum, Jack's detection takes him to a competitive grade-schooler determined to win the science fair with his experiment crossing his own dog with the DNA from the bone of a dangerous, carnivorous dinosaur. Soon the gargantuan creature is terrorizing New Yorkers and Jack must stop him before he devours the animals in the Central Park zoo!
The Show Must Go On! by
In their trademark style, author Kate Klise and illustrator M. Sarah Klise blend a story bursting with jokes, puns, and wordplay with illustrations, signs, letters, recipes, and bold graphics to introduce Three-Ring Rascals. When Sir Sidney, a kindly old circus owner, becomes too tired to travel with his show, he places a Help Wanted ad in the newspaper. Enter Barnabas Brambles: "I have a degree in lion taming from the University of Piccadilly Circus." But does Leo the lion need taming? Will Elsa the elephant still get her gourmet peanuts? And what will Brambles say when he discovers Bert and Gert--two mice who travel with the circus on popcorn cleanup patrol? Brambles has big plans: More cities! More shows! No more free popcorn. Soon he's made a big mess of Sir Sidney's Circus, but Leo, Elsa, Bert, Gert, and the rest of the performers agree: The Show Must Go On! Black and white line drawings throughout.
Secret Promise by
These aren't your average princesses . . . they're the ones who do the rescuing in this fabulous new series! Princess Emily loves being a princess, but wishes royal life could be more exciting. Little does she know that her wish is about to come true! Together with her princess friends, Emily uncovers a plot to destroy all the beautiful deer in nearby Mistberg Forest. Fortunately for the deer, these princesses can do more than curtsy -- they have ninja moves and aren't afraid to use them!
Stella Batts by
In Needs a New Name, Stella decides to change her name after a boy from her class keeps calling her "Smella." How hard can it be to pick a new name? It's not as easy as it sounds.
Violet Mackerel's Brilliant Plot by
Introducing Violet Mackerel, a charismatic new chapter book star with a zest for life and an endearing, relatable voice akin to Ramona Quimby and Junie B. Jones. Violet is a seven-year-old with a knack for appreciating the smallest things in life: her "Theory of Finding Small Things" states that the moment of finding a tiny treasure usually coincides with the moment of having a genius idea. This creative little girl always strives to think outside the box, so when she spots a small china bird that she desperately wants, she forms an imaginative plan for getting it-and her methods are anything but ordinary! Violet Mackerel's Brilliant Plot is the first book in an irresistibly charming series starring Violet and her family that has pitch-perfect perspective and plenty of laugh-out-loud humor.
There are so many Beginning Chapter Book Series it can be overwelming.
If you ever need to find out what the order of the series your child is reading try this Juvenile Series and Sequels database provided by the Mid-Continent Public Library system.
All book descriptions have been provided by book publishers.