David LaRochelle

author & illustrator

Reading: Top Ten Chapter Books

Al Capone Does My Shirts

Al Capone Does My Shirts
by Gennifer Choldenko

Twelve-year-old Moose Flanagan moves to Alcatraz Island when his father is hired as a prison guard. Funny, fascinating, and touching.

All Thirteen

All Thirteen:
The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys’ Soccer Team

by Christina Soontornvat

This fascinating and harrowing true rescue story kept me turning the pages to find out what was going to happen next (even though I already new the ending). A stellar example of nonfiction writing.

Because of Winn-Dixie

Because of Winn-Dixie
by Kate DiCamillo

A smiling stray dog brings changes, and friends, into the life of Opal Buloni. Even better than the movie.

Der Mr. Henshaw

Dear Mr. Henshaw
by Beverly Cleary

A boy whose parents have recently divorced writes to the author of his favorite book. A great story for anyone who wants to be an author him/herself.

The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
by C. S. Lewis

You like fantasy and magic but haven’t read these stories yet? Don’t delay! Step into the enchanted closet and travel to the land of Narnia.

Millicent Min Girl Genius

Millicent Min, Girl Genius
by Lisa Yee

Being an eleven-year-old genius has never been so funny.

The Night Diary

The Night Diary
by Veera Hiranandani

A moving historical fiction story about a young girl in India in 1947, struggling to deal with changes when her country is split in two.

The Search for Delicious

The Search for Delicious
by Natalie Babbitt

What do you think is the most delicious food in the world? When Gaylen is sent to discover the answer, a dangerous civil war begins and only a mermaid can save the kingdom.

When Stars are Scattered

When Stars are Scattered
by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed

Both sad and hopeful, this graphic novel gives an insider’s look into life in a refugee camp. I’m not surprised it is a favorite of so many kids and adults.

Winterhouse

The Winterhouse Mystery series
by Ben Guterson

As a person who loves puzzles, I was immediately captivated by this intriguing tale of codes and secrets. I want to live in this amazing hotel!