In case you haven’t heard, Dog Man is an extraordinarily popular graphic novel series by Dav Pilkey (also the creator of Captain Underpants, where the Dog Man character first appeared). With over a dozen installments and counting, this bestselling spinoff saga has inspired the production of a video game, an Off-Broadway musical, and now a feature film, set to open January 31.

Do you have Dog Man fans at home hounding you to take them to the movie (even though you’d sooner vacuum the curtains or alphabetize the pantry)? For those who aren’t already steeped in the lore of this peculiar phenomenon, you might do well to bone up on the basics so you know what you’re stepping into. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of our hero’s origin story: 

While this sounds eerily similar to the premise of RoboCop (and the first book does indeed feature a Robo Chief), rest assured that, instead of startling violence and incisive social commentary, you’ll be treated to an uplifting and family-friendly tale of a dogged do-gooder hungry for justice—and maybe some table scraps. Fun, right?

Jokes aside (for now), these madcap stories undeniably spark joy in young readers, and the goofiness is balanced out with thoughtful depictions of primal instinct versus technological threat, individuals’ capacity for both good and evil, and the value of loyalty and teamwork.

But there are more quirky characters to discover in this offbeat universe than just Dog Man—let’s meet some!  

Supporting Characters

Of the many personalities roaming the streets of Ohkay City—or so it’s called in the upcoming movie—here are some you’re bound to encounter should you and your kids attend a screening:

Chief – Top brass on the force. He’s given a lot of responsibility and none of the glamor. He’s essentially kind-hearted but can become short-tempered while keeping Dog Man’s focus from straying toward squirrels and such. 

Petey – The so-called “most evilest cat in the world.” He has technological know-how, a flattened tail, and a difficult past, which includes being framed for a mishap that got him booted from the Critter Scouts.

Li’l Petey – Petey’s clone/son (in other words, a much younger clone). Though Petey wants him to follow in his evil footsteps, Li’l Petey would rather do good, teaming up with Dog Man and taking on the persona of “Cat Kid.” 

Grampa, a.k.a. Crud – Petey’s father. According to a description in Dog Man: Mothering Heights, “He’s a selfish, egotistical meanie who currently resides in cat jail. Petey and Li’l Petey no longer associate with him.”

80-Hexotron Droidformigon, a.k.a. 80-HD – A sandal-wearing robot originally built by Petey. He later joins a crime-fighting trio alongside Dog Man and Li’l Petey. Although equipped with many gadgets, his greatest strength is creativity.

Sarah Hatoff – Known as the “world’s best reporter,” she provides a more objective point of view, but she also knows karate and actively participates in central events from time to time.

Flippy the Fish – Originally given to the Chief as a gift. After coming into contact with “Supa Brain Dots” that grant him telekinetic powers, this one-time bullying victim “wakes up” and chooses violence, using his newfound smarts to wreak havoc. 

Style & Substance

While Dog Man the movie will feature polished animations and voice acting, the original books’ illustrations and dialogue are presented to readers as homemade comics crafted by young collaborators George and Harold. This metafictional frame captures the free-wheeling nature of the creative process, and the occasional crossed-out word only adds to the propulsive feeling of in-the-moment inspiration. It’s also just a lot of fun!

Graphic novels typically serve as a bridge between picture books and text-heavy chapter books. Dog Man is uniquely accessible, as its deliberately childlike artwork draws readers in to experience something “by” kids, for kids.

You the parent, meanwhile, can appreciate the titles’ not-so-sly nods to classic novels (e.g., Fetch-22, Grime & Punishment, The Scarlet Shedder). While kids likely won’t know how these references resonate, you’ll be able to glean a given book’s thematic focus—like conundrums, consequences, or a community’s collective cold shoulder—with one look at the cover. 

Dig Deeper Into Dog Man at the Literati Store

If your kids are clamoring for even more Dog Man content, or if this article has inspired you to gobble up the whole series yourself, you can shop the Dog Man Collection at the Literati Store, where you’ll find giftable boxed sets, card games and puzzles, and even Spanish-language editions.

And the best part? 10% of every purchase goes back to your child’s school. So take a page out of Dog Man’s book: do a good deed that keeps students reading.

The post The Curious Parent’s Guide to “Dog Man” appeared first on Literati.

Sounds amazing, right? We wholeheartedly agree. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best early chapter books for kids from 6 to 8 years old (but don’t be surprised if you catch yourself reading over their shoulder). From artistically-inclined mice to fort-building entrepreneurs, these books explore a wealth of different worlds, each with a unique spin to keep your child engaged from cover to cover.

Wild Honey from the Moon

By Kenneth Kraegel

Warm, sweet, and a little bit cosmic, Wild Honey from the Moon takes the reader on a journey of epic proportions. Over the course of seven imaginative chapters, a mother searches for a miraculous cure for her sick son: the coveted wild honey from the moon. Her quest launches her into the star-lit sky to encounter a ravenous owl, a herd of “night mares,” and buzzing bees—all eager to stand in her way. Your reader will gain a new idol watching the mother conquer obstacles with creativity, wit, and unstoppable love. (Because, after all, nothing can stop a mom on a mission.)

A Nest for Celeste

By Henry Cole

Meet Celeste, a homesick mouse who learns an important lesson about where home truly is. Upended from her quiet life by the arrival of some unlikely friends, Celeste searches far and wide—from warm boots to shirt pockets—for a place to belong. Along Celeste’s riveting and heartfelt journey, your child will learn about history, art, and science with help from characters like John James Audubon. This whimsical tale pairs breathtaking narrative with gorgeous black-and-white illustrations to deliver a message about friendship that tugs the heartstrings of your first, second, or third-grade reading stars.

My Haunted House (Araminta Spookie No. 1)

By Angie Sage

Does your child prefer creepy skeletons over furry friends? Whether it’s the Halloween season or just a dark, stormy night, My Haunted House lends a healthy dose of fun and fright. Young Araminta Spookie is determined to stop her family from moving out of her beloved haunted house—no matter what her crabby Aunt Tabby says. Enlisting help from some ghostly friends, hijinks and horror ensue along her journey, filled with slimy goo and shrieking ghosts. This adventure-packed tale shines candlelight on lessons of determination, imagination, and appreciation for what we have. (Making it one of the best early chapter books for kids who might have a rather long birthday wish list.)

Surfboard to Peril: A Miss Mallard Mystery

By Robert Quackenbush

When she isn’t out solving cases, world-renowned detective Miss Mallard kicks back in sunny Hawaii. But her vacation is cut short when the case of a lifetime floats into her lap. An ancient artifact that belongs to the Hawaiian natives goes missing—and it’s up to Miss Mallard to solve the mystery. Our hero uses her intelligence, problem-solving skills, and intuitive grit to crack the case—all before cracking a few more coconuts. This thrilling, fast-paced novel encourages readers to put on their detective hats and take a magnifying glass to every detail.

The Birthday Castle: Fort Builders, Inc. 1

By Dee Romito

This first entry in the Fort Builders, Inc. series invites young readers to join Caleb on his mission of imagination and teamwork. In an effort to raise money to buy the next edition of his favorite book series, Caleb runs into a small problem: he’s out of allowance. With his best friend Jax and a gaggle of neighborhood kids, Caleb uncovers his entrepreneurial spirit and creates his very own business, Fort Builders, Inc. Of course, running a business isn’t going to be a walk in the playground. It’ll take collaboration and communication to finish their first project in time.

Find the Best Early Chapter Books with Literati Book Clubs

The best early chapter books for kids are a pivotal part of the literary development of young readers, taking them from picture-book beginnings to new, dynamic twists and turns. They’re a place where interests are honed, lessons are learned, and diving head-first into imaginations is gleefully encouraged. Today, there’s no better way to expand your child’s literary universe than with Literati.
Join the Literati Kids book club for hand-picked books, curated for your child based on their reading level and interests. Our team of literary aficionados is dedicated to supporting your child on their literary journey through eye-catching, mind-expanding, kid-approved books from our outstanding collection. Get started with our personalization quiz to discover your child’s next all-time favorites.

The post Best Early Chapter Books appeared first on Literati.

We’ve selected the most captivating mystery books for sixth graders. From magical tales of lost treasure to the humorous reports of a clumsy spy, your 11-year-old won’t stop reading until they crack the case!

#1 August Isle

by Ali Standish

Tucked in Florida waters, August Isle is a seemingly-perfect beach town. But the more Miranda explores its sandy shores, the more she uncovers its dark secrets—including ones about her own family.

A Junior Library Guild selection, August Isle is a deeply reflective tale with lessons and self-discovery that are bound to resonate with sixth grade. Its unique characters and captivating twists make it one of the best chapter books for young readers.

#2 Case Closed #1: Mystery in the Mansion

by Lauren Magaziner

To save his sick mother and her detective agency, young Carlos teams up with best friend Eliza and her little brother, Frank. Little do they know, they’ll encounter spooky letters, buried treasures, riddles, and wacky foes along the way. Case Closed empowers your middle-grader to make their own decisions and chase down the clues of their choosing. This format helps develop abstract and critical thinking skills as they attempt to think a few steps ahead in order to crack the case!

#3 The Lost Property Office

By James R. Hannibal

Jack’s got a knack for discovering all things lost and found. From scarves to books, Jack Buckles has a special gift for locating all of London’s abandoned treasures. But there’s one thing he can’t find—his long-lost father and sister. That is, until a few family secrets emerge. James R. Hannibal’s clever thriller is a top pick for readers who enjoy a bit of magic in their mystery. The whimsical London setting helps make this a fully immersive read, while challenging readers to link past and present.

#4 Spy School

by Stuart Gibbs

Meet Ben Ripley, our resident spy-to-be, who’s determined to join the CIA (despite being a bit accident-prone). Readers are in for one of many plot twists when Ben finds out his new school isn’t exactly what it claims to be.

This spy tale is one of the best books for sixth graders because it’s laugh-out-loud funny—a feature you don’t always find in mystery. Detective thrillers meet gut-busting humor in Spy School, where there’s no shortage of sharp jokes that are just-right for the sixth grade sensibility.

#5 The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle

By Leslie Connor

With his learning disability and sweaty appearance, Mason Buttle is not exactly a popular kid. Even worse, his reputation is haunted by the mysterious death of his best friend, Benny. To escape his bullies, Mason and his new friend Calvin escape to play in an underground grotto—until Calvin disappears, too.

With over a dozen children’s book awards, The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle is a mature and deeply captivating story. Leslie Connor’s intelligent writing and complex characters show the evil of stigmas, as well as the power of friendship.

Break Out the Magnifying Glass to Read These Mystery Books

From belly-laughs to scary spooks, there’s a mystery book for every reader out there. And with Literati’s help, you don’t have to play detective to find the best ones for your child. Our personalized book clubs for kids can help your preteen find books they’re bound to love, with individualized curation that adapts as they grow. Take the quiz to find your child’s starting level—and uncover all the brain-boosting secrets of one-of-a-kind personalization!

The post Get Curious with Our Top 5 Mystery Books for 6th Graders appeared first on Literati.