Books like Geronimo Stilton
If your child loved Geronimo Stilton, try Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library, Gangsta Granny and Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made. Each is funny, colourful and quick to read, with an adventure in every book.
12 books, checked for age-appropriate content. Updated .
Content checked by Dhiraj Bodade, co-founder of Bookstaken.
- 1
Ages 9–11
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library
by Chris Grabenstein
When game lover Kyle Keeley wins an invitation to spend the night in his town's brand-new public library, he expects a fun sleepover with games and holographic wonders. Encourages young readers to reflect on belonging and being a good friend.
- 2
Ages 9–11
Gangsta Granny
by David Walliams
Ben dreads staying with his cabbage-obsessed grandmother every Friday evening, convinced she is the most boring person alive. Everything changes when he stumbles upon a tin full of diamonds and discovers she is actually an international jewel thief with eyes on the Crown Jewels. Invites older readers to reflect on compassion, courage, and resilience.
- 3
Ages 6–11
Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made
by Stephan Pastis
Meet Timmy Failure, the hilariously clueless founder and CEO of his own detective agency, Total Failure, Inc. Alongside his lazy, five-hundred-pound polar bear partner, Total, Timmy takes on local mysteries with complete overconfidence and terribly flawed logic. Brings a little silliness to reading time and invites shared smiles.
- 4
Ages 8–12
Malgudi Schooldays: The Adventures of Swami and His Friends
by R. K. Narayan
Ten-year-old Swami navigates life in the fictional South Indian town of Malgudi during the colonial era. Alongside his loyal circle of friends, Swami faces strict schoolteachers, dreads homework, dreams of cricket matches, and occasionally finds himself swept into the larger world of local strikes and protests. A warm way to explore friendship, kindness, and seeing other perspectives.
- 5
Ages 8–12
The Magic of the Lost Temple
by Sudha Murty
While spending her summer vacation at her grandparents' home in a Karnataka village, city girl Nooni falls in love with rural life. She learns to cycle, helps around the house, and explores the nearby forests.
- 6
Ages 9–13
Malgudi Adventures: Classic Tales for Children
by R. K. Narayan
Set in the bustling, fictional South Indian town of Malgudi, this collection brings together charming tales of everyday childhood, curious animals, and gentle misadventures. Young readers meet unforgettable characters like Swami and his mischievous school friends as they navigate classroom troubles, family dynamics, and unexpected encounters, including a memorable tiger on the loose. Keeps curiosity alive and invites readers to imagine what comes next.
- 7
Ages 6–8
Quest
by Aaron Becker
In this wordless picture book sequel, a girl and boy are handed a map and a set of colour clues by a desperate king just before he is captured. Armed with their magical drawing markers, the children embark on a sweeping journey through wondrous landscapes to rescue him. A playful spark for creativity and storytelling beyond the page.
- 8
Ages 6–8
Ivy + Bean
by Annie Barrows
Seven-year-old Bean is convinced she will never be friends with Ivy, the quiet girl across the street who sits on her porch reading big books. But when Bean needs a quick escape after playing a trick on her older sister, Ivy comes to the rescue with a surprisingly wild imagination. Encourages young readers to reflect on belonging and being a good friend.
- 9
Ages 6–11
Phoebe and Her Unicorn
by Dana Simpson
Nine-year-old Phoebe accidentally hits a unicorn with a skipped rock, freeing the mythical beast from her own reflection. In return, the vain but delightful unicorn, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils, grants Phoebe a wish—to become best friends. Encourages young readers to reflect on belonging and being a good friend.
- 10
Ages 9–11
Secret Coders
by Gene Luen Yang
Hopper enters Stately Academy, an odd school filled with creepy four-eyed birds and mysterious secrets. Teaming up with fellow student Eni, she uncovers puzzles left behind by the school's eccentric founder. Invites readers to reflect on classmates, choices, and belonging.
- 11
Ages 6–11
The Boxcar Children
by Gertrude Chandler Warner
Four orphaned siblings—Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny—run away to stay together and make a cozy home inside an abandoned train car in the woods. Using their wits and teamwork, they find creative ways to gather food, build dishes, and take care of each other. Invites heartwarming conversations about family, care, and understanding.
- 12
Ages 6–11
Cricket for the Crocodile
by Ruskin Bond
Ranji and his friends love playing cricket on the riverbank, but Nakoo the grumpy crocodile is not pleased when their games disturb his sunbathing. When an errant cricket ball strikes Nakoo, a hilarious chase ensues, causing chaos for players, bank clerks, and spectators alike. A lively choice for readers who enjoy movement, teamwork, and determination.
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