Good Books for 2nd Graders

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  Andy Shane and the Very Bossy Dolores Starbuckle

  by Jennifer Richard Jacobson, Abby Carter

  Shy Andy Shane struggles with his outspoken classmate Dolores. A thoughtful story about finding confidence and common ground.

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  Yasmin the Explorer

  by Saadia Faruqi, Hatem Aly

  Yasmin is a curious and creative Pakistani American girl who loves to solve everyday problems. A joyful and inclusive series for early readers.

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  Pearl and Wagner: Two Good Friends

  by Kate McMullan, R. W. Alley

  Pig Pearl and mouse Wagner are opposites—but great friends. A funny and realistic portrayal of friendship in early elementary life.

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  Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus

  by Barbara Park

  Junie B. Jones is a feisty kindergartner with big opinions and bigger mischief. Her humorous perspective on everyday life is laugh-out-loud funny and relatable.

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  Dog Man

  by Dav Pilkey

  Part dog, part man, all hero—Dog Man fights crime with lots of laughs and heart. Bursting with energy and Pilkey's trademark absurdity.

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  Miss Nelson is Missing!

  by Harry Allard, James Marshall

  When sweet Miss Nelson disappears, the class gets stuck with terrifying Miss Viola Swamp. A clever and funny tale about appreciating kindness.

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  Mr. Putter & Tabby Pour the Tea

  by Cynthia Rylant, Arthur Howard

  Elderly Mr. Putter adopts a charming old cat named Tabby, and the two become inseparable. Quiet, cozy humor and strong vocabulary.

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  The Chicken Squad

  by Doreen Cronin, Kevin Cornell

  Four chicks take on wild backyard mysteries with hilarious results. A clever and silly mystery series for younger readers.

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  Ramona the Pest

  by Beverly Cleary

  Ramona is starting kindergarten, and her big personality is on full display. Cleary captures the earnestness and hilarity of early childhood like no one else.

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  The Boxcar Children

  by Gertrude Chandler Warner

  Four orphaned siblings create a home in an abandoned boxcar and solve mysteries together. This heartwarming tale has captivated young readers for generations.