Love Elena Rides? Readers share 100 books like Elena Rides...

By Juana Medina,

Here are 100 books that Elena Rides fans have personally recommended if you like Elena Rides. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Together We Ride

Elizabeth Verdick Author Of Bike & Trike

From my list on bikes and biking for kids.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a Minnesota-based children’s writer focusing on a mix of books for kids ages baby to teen. I love writing stories as well as nonfiction books focused on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). After more than 25 years spent writing for a young audience, I started thinking about how I may be old but don’t necessarily feel old. An image came to mind: a rusty, dusty old tricycle. How might “Trike” feel if a happy, snappy new bike were to appear in the garage? Bike & Trike is the story that arose, one about old vs. new and a daring challenge to determine which bike will be the winner on wheels.

Elizabeth's book list on bikes and biking for kids

Elizabeth Verdick Why did Elizabeth love this book?

Learning to ride a bike is no easy feat, so it helps when your encouraging dad is along for the inaugural ride.

This warm story of father-daughter bonding celebrates a bike-riding milestone and the feeling of freedom that comes from an afternoon spent outside on wheels. The story is lyrical and upbeat, with a whiff of nostalgia.

By Valerie Bolling, Kaylani Juanita (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Together We Ride as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Learning to ride is no easy feat! But with a little courage, a guiding hand from her dad, and an enthusiastic bark from her pup, one brave girl quickly learns the freedom that comes from an afternoon spent outside on a bike.

Experience the fear, the anticipation, and the delight of achieving the ultimate milestone in this energetic, warm story that celebrates the precious bond between parent and child.


Book cover of Wild Blue: Taming a Big-Kid Bike

Elizabeth Verdick Author Of Bike & Trike

From my list on bikes and biking for kids.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a Minnesota-based children’s writer focusing on a mix of books for kids ages baby to teen. I love writing stories as well as nonfiction books focused on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). After more than 25 years spent writing for a young audience, I started thinking about how I may be old but don’t necessarily feel old. An image came to mind: a rusty, dusty old tricycle. How might “Trike” feel if a happy, snappy new bike were to appear in the garage? Bike & Trike is the story that arose, one about old vs. new and a daring challenge to determine which bike will be the winner on wheels.

Elizabeth's book list on bikes and biking for kids

Elizabeth Verdick Why did Elizabeth love this book?

Kayla has outgrown her three-wheeled “pink pony”—her tricycle—but is nervous about making the switch to a two-wheeled big-kid bike.

When she tries her new ride, Wild Blue, she is thrown again and again. Bumps... bruises... falls. They’re all part of learning to ride—so is perseverance! The story explores how the transition from training wheels or trikes is made better by using one’s imagination. Tender, colorful illustrations help the story come alive.

By Dashka Slater, Laura Hughes (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Wild Blue as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

In a charming take on a milestone moment, a young girl summons a cowpoke's courage to tame her intimidating new bicycle.

Kayla loves riding her pink pony, a three-wheeled bike, up and down the street, day after day. But then Daddy announces that it's time for a big-kid bike, one with just two wheels. At the store, Kayla selects her mount, but when she tries to ride it, she is thrown-again and again. Can she tame this intimidating set of wheels? Or is the new blue bike just too wild? Tender and relatable, Wild Blue captures the emotions of moving…


Book cover of The Patchwork Bike

Elizabeth Verdick Author Of Bike & Trike

From my list on bikes and biking for kids.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a Minnesota-based children’s writer focusing on a mix of books for kids ages baby to teen. I love writing stories as well as nonfiction books focused on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). After more than 25 years spent writing for a young audience, I started thinking about how I may be old but don’t necessarily feel old. An image came to mind: a rusty, dusty old tricycle. How might “Trike” feel if a happy, snappy new bike were to appear in the garage? Bike & Trike is the story that arose, one about old vs. new and a daring challenge to determine which bike will be the winner on wheels.

Elizabeth's book list on bikes and biking for kids

Elizabeth Verdick Why did Elizabeth love this book?

In a village at the end of a no-go desert, siblings need to make their own fun. Need a bike? Build your own from scratch!

With a milk pot, old flour sack, and other everyday items, a bike is born—one that can bumpety-bump over the hot sand hills. Sound-words, rhythmic text, and a theme of perseverance make this a stand-out story. Street artist Van Thanh Rudd created illustrations that capture the rough-and-tumble world and its lively characters. 

By Maxine Beneba Clarke, Van Thanh Rudd (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Patchwork Bike as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 6, 7, 8, and 9.

What is this book about?

Winner of the Boston Globe-Horn Book Picture Book Award 2019

Winner of the Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Crichton Award for Debut Illustrator 2017

Selected as a CBCA Honour Picture Book 2017

Shortlisted for PATRICIA WRIGHTSON PRIZE FOR CHILDREN'S LITERATURE 2018

'Beautifully written and incredibly powerful.' Books + Publishing

'this book is just what many of us need right now' - starred Kirkus Review

When you live in a village at the edge of the No-Go Desert, you need to make your own fun. That's when you and your brothers get inventive and build a bike from scratch, using…


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Book cover of Wagnificent: The Adventures of Thunder and Sage

Wagnificent by Bethanie Deeney Murguia,

Discover a new early middle-grade graphic novel series full of humor and heart about a lovable dog, her favorite human, and their pawsome pack in this unforgettable friendship story. Though Thunder wants to be good for Sage, she’s having a rough time stopping herself from doing things she knows are…

Book cover of Chirri & Chirra, On The Town

Elizabeth Verdick Author Of Bike & Trike

From my list on bikes and biking for kids.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a Minnesota-based children’s writer focusing on a mix of books for kids ages baby to teen. I love writing stories as well as nonfiction books focused on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). After more than 25 years spent writing for a young audience, I started thinking about how I may be old but don’t necessarily feel old. An image came to mind: a rusty, dusty old tricycle. How might “Trike” feel if a happy, snappy new bike were to appear in the garage? Bike & Trike is the story that arose, one about old vs. new and a daring challenge to determine which bike will be the winner on wheels.

Elizabeth's book list on bikes and biking for kids

Elizabeth Verdick Why did Elizabeth love this book?

Originally published in Japanese, this multicultural story portrays little Chirri and Chirra, an adventurous duo (two girls) who take a leisurely bike ride full of discovery. Through forest paths and alleyways, the girls experience an adventure that’s best enjoyed on wheels. 

Dring-Dring go their bike bells, all through the town!

By Kaya Doi, David Boyd (translator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Chirri & Chirra, On The Town as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

Having explored blossoming fields, a magical mound of tall grass, crystal caves and underground passageways, here Chirri and Chirra explore life in town!


Winner of Multicultural Award, 2021 Northern Lights Book Awards


In this fifth book of perhaps the most charming series ever, Chirri and Chirra venture down forest paths and through alleyways into a yarn shop and an old woman's house, where they enjoy hot drinks and soup. When they're done, they find a wonderful surprise hidden in the branches of a tree. Memorable for Doi's luminous appreciation of the natural world as well as her respect for beautiful…


Book cover of I Am the Messenger

B J Mears Author Of Seraph of the Sallow Grove

From my list on young adult crossover mystery.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been writing fantasy/mystery for around twenty-five years and have self-published a YA series of six books titled the Tyler May series before gaining a traditional publishing deal in 2019. Since then, I’ve had four books published (the Banyard & Mingle Mysteries) which chart the investigations and adventures of a pair of roguish private detectives in a future, Dickensian Britain. I am constantly researching – and have been for many years – true crime stories, and my intake of books, TV, and film consists of archaeology, forensics, crime, murder mystery, fantasy, and thriller. I’m also partial to a good historical whodunnit.

B J's book list on young adult crossover mystery

B J Mears Why did B J love this book?

I Am the Messenger begins with a scene that grabbed me by the collars and hurled me into the book. I can’t praise this one highly enough. It is perhaps more of a literary, young adult novel than most others, so is unusual in that sense, but don’t let that put you off. It’s fantastic.

Ed Kennedy’s character is a cherry on a rather delicious cake, marbled with the stories of those around him. The plot pivots on a mystery that works, but I also found myself reading it just to be with the characters and to revel in the masterly skill of an incredible writer. I’ve read it at least twice now, and will be reading it again, no doubt.

By Markus Zusak,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I Am the Messenger as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

DON’T MISS BRIDGE OF CLAY, MARKUS ZUSAK’S FIRST NOVEL SINCE THE BOOK THIEF AND AN UNFORGETTABLE AND SWEEPING FAMILY SAGA.
 

From the author of the extraordinary #1 New York Times bestseller The Book Thief, I Am the Messenger is an acclaimed novel filled with laughter, fists, and love. 


A MICHAEL L. PRINTZ HONOR BOOK
FIVE STARRED REVIEWS

Ed Kennedy is an underage cabdriver without much of a future. He's pathetic at playing cards, hopelessly in love with his best friend, Audrey, and utterly devoted to his coffee-drinking dog, the Doorman. His life is one of peaceful routine and incompetence until…


Book cover of The Skin You Live in

Tanya Valentine Author Of Little Taco Truck

From my list on diversity & inclusion.

Why am I passionate about this?

As the white parent of both a white child and a child of color, the discrepancies of representation and inclusivity in children’s literature is an important conversation in our home. Seeing themselves in books allows all children to dream big, feel seen, and know there is a place in this world for them. I hope both of my books, All Bears Need Love and Little Taco Truck do exactly that. I know the list of brilliant books I’ve suggested here are wonderful examples of inclusivity and diversity that young readers need.

Tanya's book list on diversity & inclusion

Tanya Valentine Why did Tanya love this book?

Any book that represents red-headed & freckled boys as well as kids with “warm cocoa dream skin” was a hit with my kids when they were young as they saw themselves and would shout “That’s me!”. The easy rhyme and adorable art help this story share the important message of acceptance, diversity, and inclusion to young readers. Children will recognize their family members, friends, and themselves in the “wonderful hues” decorating every page.

By Michael Tyler, David Lee Csicsko (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Skin You Live in as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

With the ease and simplicity of a nursery rhyme, this lively story delivers an important message of social acceptance to young readers. Themes associated with child development and social harmony, such as friendship, acceptance, self-esteem, and diversity are promoted in simple and straightforward prose. Vivid illustrations of children's activities for all cultures, such as swimming in the ocean, hugging, catching butterflies, and eating birthday cake are also provided. This delightful picturebook offers a wonderful venue through which parents and teachers can discuss important social concepts with their children.


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Book cover of The City Sings Green & Other Poems About Welcoming Wildlife

The City Sings Green & Other Poems About Welcoming Wildlife by Erica Silverman,

A unique and artful blend of poetry, science, and activism, this picture book shows how city dwellers can intervene so that nature can work her magic.

In Oslo, Norway: citizens create a honeybee highway that stretches from one side of the city to the other, offering flowerpots, resting spots, bee…

Book cover of You Are a Magnet: Guiding Principles for a Magnetic and Joyful Life

Nicole Vignola Author Of Rewire: Break the Cycle, Alter Your Thoughts and Create Lasting Change

From my list on teach you how to tell your own story.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a neuroscientist and author who wants to help people break the mold and become the best possible versions of themselves. While working with people, I noticed that many repeated things like "I could never," "I am just wired this way," and “I am not good enough.” Even worse, they're holding onto a statement that was said to them in their formative years, which has dictated their trajectory as peopleI want you to know that your brains can change…at any age! You can exhume your best traits and break the cycle of the habits and behaviors holding you back.

Nicole's book list on teach you how to tell your own story

Nicole Vignola Why did Nicole love this book?

I believe that we should all be able to tell a story about who we are that isn’t dictated by the programming that was unwillingly given to us by others in our formative years. Many people are stuck in the confines of a box they were put in. This book helps you break out of that box and reach for everything you want. You are a magnet!

By Amber Lyon,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked You Are a Magnet as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

What if you could change your life, simply by changing the way you see it? Ignite your inner magnetism and attract the successful, vibrant life you deserve with this powerful guide to becoming your most magnetic self.

We each hold the power to attract the life we want, the one we deserve, the one we dream of. Yet so many of us get stuck in a cycle of self-doubt, insecurities, and old patterns of behavior that hold us back.
Through simple guiding principles and practical exercises, Amber Lyon shows you how to embrace your true worth, surrender the doubts that…


Book cover of Eli Over Easy

Laura Anne Bird Author Of Marvelous Jackson

From my list on contemporary middle grade novels for boys who love to bake.

Why am I passionate about this?

True confession: I’m not a baker, but I love it when other people bake. It’s riveting to watch how they transform the humblest of ingredients into desserts that are beautiful and delicious. I get super excited to see this creative process unfold, which is why I adore The Great British Baking Show and other competitive reality baking programs. They inspired me to write Marvelous Jackson because my main character desperately wants to snag a coveted audition spot on The Marvelous Midwest Kids Baking Championship. He relishes the frenetic energy and noise of a kitchen packed with ambitious and talented people—just like I do!

Laura's book list on contemporary middle grade novels for boys who love to bake

Laura Anne Bird Why did Laura love this book?

Stamper’s tender, touching novel introduces readers to thirteen-year-old Eli, a Minnesota native who has relocated to New York City with his anxiety-ridden father. Struggling with the recent loss of his mom, Eli desperately wants to watch her old instructional cooking videos on YouTube. Still, his clueless (and, frankly, misguided) dad bans them out of his own overwhelming feelings of grief.

Fortunately, Eli makes a new friend in his apartment building. With help from the unflappable (and cute!) Mathias, Eli purchases ingredients, hones his skills in the kitchen, and even writes computer code for baking the perfect chocolate chip cookie. The result? A journey that’s complicated, messy, and super sweet. 

By Phil Stamper,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Eli Over Easy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

From the acclaimed author of Small Town Pride, Phil Stamper, comes a heartfelt coming-of-age middle grade novel about grief, love, loss, and finding your way forward in the vein of Kate Allen’s The Line Tender and Jules Machias’s Both Can Be True.

The last few months have been pretty tough for Eli. He moved to New York City and left his small town in Minnesota with his extended family and everyone he knows. He hasn’t made any new friends. And his mom died unexpectedly, shattering his whole world. He misses Mom more and more every day, but Dad refuses to…


Book cover of Cheeky: A Head-to-Toe Memoir

Haley Weaver Author Of Give Me Space but Don't Go Far: My Unlikely Friendship with Anxiety

From my list on graphic memoirs to make you feel seen.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a child, I was always drawn to stories told through both words and illustrations. Why should that have to end in adulthood? Spoiler: it doesn’t, because there are SO many incredible graphic memoirs and novels written with adult audiences in mind. As a graphic memoirist myself, I love to see how other artists explore the form. I share recommendations in this genre every month in my newsletter, Haley Wrote This

Haley's book list on graphic memoirs to make you feel seen

Haley Weaver Why did Haley love this book?

If ever a book made me want to give myself a massive hug after reading it, this one is it. As someone who has suffered with body image, this book spoke right to my soul, making even the most deeply seeded insecurities feel like parts of me worth loving.

The illustrations are silly and beautiful and moving, which brings to life so much of the messaging! I keep this on my shelf for an instant confidence boost. A total antidote to body shame!

By Ariella Elovic,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Cheeky as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A Beat Most Anticipated Graphic Novel of Fall 2020

The funny, exuberant, inspiring antidote to body shame--a full-color graphic memoir celebrating the imperfections of the author's female body in all its glory.

Too tall. Too short. Too fat. Too thin. The message is everywhere--we need to pluck, wax, shrink, and hide ourselves, to not take up space, emotionally or literally; women are never “just right.” Well, Ariella Elovic, feminist and illustrator extraordinaire, has had enough. In her full-color graphic memoir Cheeky, she takes an inspiring and exuberant head-to-toe look at her own body self-consciousness, and body part by body part,…


Book cover of I Can Do Hard Things: Mindful Affirmations for Kids

Karla Clark Author Of Three Ways to Be Brave: A Trio of Stories

From my list on children’s books about bravery.

Why am I passionate about this?

The best parts of my life have come when I was brave: getting married, having children, embarking on a career. The worst parts of my life have been mitigated by being brave: losing friends and relatives, dealing with illness and disability among family members. A huge part of raising my son who has autism was helping him to be brave. I've always admired brave people. Not daring or reckless, but truly brave. I've found that all the great stories include an element of bravery! I wrote my picture book as a way to help young children navigate the path to courage and resilience. I’m also the co-founder of National Be Brave Day.

Karla's book list on children’s books about bravery

Karla Clark Why did Karla love this book?

Some books are pretty straightforward: this is one of them. I like it because it covers a lot of ground and includes lots of diverse kids. Sometimes you want a sweet story, and sometimes you want something more practical. I love that this book gives concrete examples about being brave, strong, and resilient. My son has autism, and when he was small he preferred concept books to stories. This would have been perfect for him—as he took things very literally. It’s a best-seller and comes in a Spanish version.

By Gabi Garcia, Charity Russell (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked I Can Do Hard Things as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

What kids tell themselves matters!  It becomes their inner voice. It can help them connect with their power within.

Mindful affirmations can help children tune out the streams of messages they get about how they should be in the world so they can listen to their own inner voice. Children can learn to tap into their inner strength and find the encouragement they need.

I Can Do Hard Things reflects the beautiful diversity and connection in our world. A wonderful addition to your home or school library.


Book cover of Together We Ride
Book cover of Wild Blue: Taming a Big-Kid Bike
Book cover of The Patchwork Bike

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