The Magic Tree House Series
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Jack and Annie are a brother and sister who discover a tree house filled with books that have magical powers. The tree house can transport them to any place and era in the world.
In each story, Jack and Annie must solve a mystery with help from research books, codes and riddles. Along the way they learn history facts, work on problem-solving skills and make new friends. It's a great way to introduce young readers to history lessons and different cultures.
Nim's Island
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A new take on Robinson and Crusoe, Nim is an independent girl who isn't afraid to climb palm trees, carry a machete, start a fire with a piece of glass and be left alone on an island for three days. Follow her adventures with her animal friends when she finds she has to be stronger and braver than ever before.
Island of the Blue Dolphins
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Alone and afraid on a deserted island, 12-year-old Karana must learn how to survive. She learns how to build shelter, find food and fight off wild dogs with weapons she made herself. It's a classic story of man versus nature, but from a child's perspective.
Harry Potter Series
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This popular series about a young wizard has quickly become a classic for kids and adults alike. The storyline has twists and turns, yet respects children's intelligence. It encourages young readers to use their imagination to solve logic puzzles and to be creative. However, it does have scary parts that may be too much for younger readers.
Stuart Little
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A classic book children and adults can enjoy (ideally together). Stuart Little is no ordinary mouse. He was born to a family of humans that consists of his parents and an older brother. He even has a pet cat, Snowball. Stuart faces an adventure of leaving his home in New York City for the first time. This shy, quiet mouse must grow up and, in the process, becomes a hero.
The Lightning Thief
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Percy is an everyday kid until he learns his dad is really Poseidon, God of the Sea. Fearing for his safety and hoping to help him understand who he really is, his mom sends him to Camp Half Blood, a summer camp for demigods on Long Island. With the help of his new friends from camp, Percy travels across the U.S. to the Underworld in Hollywood to help prevent a catastrophic war between the gods.
Pippi Longstocking
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Nine-year-old Pippi lives alone with a horse, a monkey and a suitcase full of gold coins. This children's classic is full of adventure and fun that Pippi has with her neighbors, Tommy and Annika, while the adults of her town try to tame her wild ways.
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