Book Series: Preschool to Grade 2 – Plano Library Learns

These recommendations come from resources like The Horn Book, Scholastic, and the Association of Library Service for Children. Each child learns to read at their own pace and these lists are suggestions for the age level indicated. The titles on this list are just a starting point and not meant to be exhaustive.

Fly Guy by Tedd Arnold

This early reader series spotlights the adventures of a bug-eyed boy named Buzz and his pet fly. The adventures of Fly Guy and Buzz are filled with puns, slapstick humor, and goofy illustrations. This series can be read in any order.

Also look for books in the Fly Guy and Fly Girl and Fly Guy Presents series.

Clifford the Big Red Dog by Norman Bridwell

This picture book series follows the adventures of Emily Elizabeth and her giant, red dog named Clifford. From his early days as a tiny puppy to his adventures as a really big dog, Clifford learns – and teaches – everything from good manners and word opposites to ABCs and U.S. geography. This series can be read in any order.

First book in this series: Clifford, the Big Red Dog, available as Print

Also look for Clifford titles in Spanish.

Biscuit by Alyssa Satin Capucilli

This early reader series follows the adventures of a small yellow puppy who always wants one more hug. Biscuit’s mischievous antics, lively storytelling, and simple pictures make these titles perfect for young readers. This series can be read in any order.

First book in this series: Biscuit, available as Print | Spanish

Also look for Biscuit picture books.

What If… by Sandra Markle

Filled with outrageous and ridiculous illustrations, this nonfiction series introduces basic animal biology in a fun way. Readers can use their creativity and imagination to understand what life would be like with unique animal features and adaptations. This series can be read in any order.

First book in this series: What If You Had Animal Teeth?, available as Print

Also look for select titles in eBook format.

Judy Moody and Friends by Megan McDonald

This early reader series explores the escapades of characters from the original Judy Moody series. These stories about friendship are ideal for newly independent readers who aren’t quite ready for full chapter books yet. This series can be read in any order.

First book in this series: Jessica Finch in Pig Trouble, available as Print

Also look for books in the Judy Moody & Stink series, Stink series, and Judy Moody series.

If You Give… by Laura Numeroff

What happens when you give a mouse a cookie? These fun and imaginative stories explore the ongoing series of cause and effect that starts with a seemingly simple action. These picture books are perfect for preschoolers but can also be enjoyed by children in early elementary grades, too. This series can be read in any order.

First book in this series: If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, available as Print | Korean | Spanish | DVD

Amelia Bedelia by Herman and Peggy Parish

This early reader series follows the adventures of a literal-minded housekeeper who attempts to make sense of instructions and everyday situations. Each time, she interprets figures of speech and terminology literally, with comical effect. This series can be read in any order.

First book in this series: Amelia Bedelia, available as Print | Playaway | eAudiobook

Also look for books in the Young Amelia Bedelia picture book series, Young Amelia Bedelia early reader series, and Young Amelia Bedelia chapter book series.

Dragon by Dav Pilkey

This early reader series follows the adventures of Dragon, a humble hero with a heart of gold who always helps those who need him. Children can recognize everyday adventures and simple conflicts in each story, and learn how to use their hearts to learn alongside dragon. This series can be read in any order.

First book in this series: A Friend for Dragon, available as Print | eBook

Elephant and Piggie by Mo Willems

This early reader series chronicles the adventures of two very different friends, Elephant and Piggie. Each book features conversations between characters with speech bubbles. Stories include life lessons and an emphasis on friendship. This series can be read in any order.

First book in this series: Today I Will Fly!, available as Print | Chinese | Chinese

Also look for select titles in Spanish.