Barry the Moustache

Reach for this book when your child is a reluctant reader who needs high visual stimulation or when they are feeling intimidated by large blocks of text. It is the perfect bridge for children moving from picture books to chapter books because it maintains a high energy level and uses typography to keep eyes moving across the page. This story follows Geronimo, a mild mannered newspaper editor, as he gets swept into a mystery involving a suspicious character with a very distinctive moustache. While the plot is a fast paced adventure, the deeper value lies in the themes of building self confidence and the importance of teamwork. Geronimo is often fearful, making him a highly relatable protagonist for kids who might feel small or nervous in their own lives. Watching him overcome his anxieties with humor and the help of his friends helps normalize the feeling of being scared while still showing how to be brave. It is a lighthearted, secular, and safe choice for independent reading for ages seven to ten.