Books like Magic Tree House
If your child loved Magic Tree House, try Quest, Journey and My Father's Dragon. Each has short chapters and an adventure a young reader can finish on their own.
12 books, checked for age-appropriate content. Updated .
Content checked by Dhiraj Bodade, co-founder of Bookstaken.
- 1
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.
- 2
Ages 6–8
Journey
by Aaron Becker
A bored, lonely girl uses a red marker to draw a magic door on her bedroom wall, stepping straight into an astonishing new world. As she travels through grand castles and swooping canals on self-drawn boats, hot-air balloons, and flying carpets, she soon finds herself risking everything to help a captured creature in need.
- 3
Ages 6–8
My Father's Dragon
by Ruth Stiles Gannett
When Elmer Elevator hears about a baby dragon being held captive on dangerous Wild Island, he sets off on a rescue mission. Armed only with everyday items like chewing gum, lollipops, and rubber bands, Elmer uses quick thinking to outsmart fierce animals like tigers, lions, and crocodiles along the way. A charming way to spark conversations about animals and empathy.
- 4
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.
- 5
Ages 6–11
The Cherry Tree
by Ruskin Bond
Set in the Himalayan foothills, this gentle story follows young Rakesh, who plants a single cherry seed in his grandfather's garden. Over the years, through harsh winters, grazing goats, and careless grass cutters, Rakesh and his grandfather patiently care for the stubborn little sapling. Sparks curiosity about nature and caring for the world around us.
- 6
Ages 6–8
The Little Engine That Could
by Watty Piper
When a train carrying good food and cheerful toys breaks down, the toys worry they will never reach the children waiting on the other side of the mountain. After several large, boastful engines refuse to help, a small blue engine steps forward to take on the daunting climb.
- 7
Ages 6–8
Narwhal and Jelly
by Ben Clanton
Meet happy-go-lucky Narwhal and slightly cynical Jellyfish in this delightful early graphic novel. Despite their opposite personalities, the two sea creatures bond over a shared love of waffles, imaginative make-believe, and playful underwater adventures. A lighthearted choice for sparking laughter and lively conversation.
- 8
Ages 5–9
How the Sea Became Salty
by Sudha Murty
This lively chapter book tells the traditional folktale of a poor, hardworking man who receives a magical hand mill that can grind out whatever he wishes. When an envious relative plots to steal the wonderful object, his greed triggers an unforeseen chain of events on the open sea. Invites readers to look more closely at the natural world.
- 9
Ages 6–8
The Adventures of Sophie Mouse
by Poppy Green
Join Sophie Mouse as she explores the charming woodland of Silverlake Forest alongside her animal friends. In these gentle early chapter book adventures, Sophie navigates relatable childhood experiences like starting school, making new friends, and helping out neighbors in need. Invites readers to look more closely at the natural world.
- 10
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.
- 11
Ages 6–11
Magic Tree House Fact Trackers
by Mary Pope Osborne & Natalie Pope Boyce
These companion guides to the Magic Tree House fiction series let young readers dig deeper into the real-world science, history, and animals behind Jack and Annie's adventures. Filled with simple facts, engaging illustrations, photos, and easy-to-digest chapters, each guide explores topics ranging from ancient civilizations and dinosaurs to extreme weather and space. A friendly starting point for exploring science through everyday questions.
- 12
Ages 6–8
Zoey and Sassafras
by Asia Citro
Zoey discovers that she has the ability to see magical creatures, just like her mother. Along with her faithful cat, Sassafras, she cares for creatures in need by applying the scientific method. Makes room for curious questions and discovering how things work.
More book lists for kids
A good book is the start. A mentor makes it stick.
In a free 1:1 session, a trained Bookstaken mentor reads with your child, asks what they think and helps the reading habit last.