Good Books for Second Graders

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  Henry and Mudge: The First Book

  by Cynthia Rylant, Suçie Stevenson

  Henry finds companionship in his giant dog Mudge in this easy-reader series. Sweet and simple stories of everyday love and loyalty.

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  The Amazing World of Gumball: Recipe for Disaster

  by Megan Brennan

  A graphic novel based on the hit cartoon series—chaotic, silly, and packed with humor for fans of Gumball's universe.

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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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  Freckle Juice

  by Judy Blume

  Andrew wants freckles more than anything—until his plan to get them backfires hilariously. A short, silly, and classic Judy Blume story.

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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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  The Phantom Tollbooth

  by Norton Juster

  Milo embarks on a fantastic journey through the Lands Beyond in his toy tollbooth. A witty and imaginative adventure that playfully explores language, numbers, and the joy of learning.

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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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  Nate the Great

  by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat

  With his trench coat and pancake obsession, Nate solves everyday mysteries in this kid-friendly detective series. Simple text and classic charm.

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  Dragon Masters: Rise of the Earth Dragon

  by Tracey West, Graham Howells

  Young Drake discovers he's a Dragon Master in training. Magic, dragons, and short chapters make this series a beginner fantasy favorite.

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  Stink: The Incredible Shrinking Kid

  by Megan McDonald, Peter H. Reynolds

  Judy Moody's little brother Stink has big personality—especially when he feels shorter than everyone else. Funny and empowering for new readers.