For librarians and parents alike, the question “My child loved Dog Man. What else can they read?” is a frequent one. Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man series, a wildly popular graphic novel collection for ages 6-10, captivates young readers with its irresistible blend of silliness, adventure, and emotional depth. This unique combination ensures that even the most reluctant readers find something to connect with, making Dog Man a perfect gateway to a lifelong love of reading. When recommending similar books, the key is to understand why a child is drawn to Dog Man. This approach helps in finding read-alikes that truly resonate.
This list offers recommendations based on common reasons children love Dog Man, focusing on humor, excitement, and emotional connection. All suggested titles are either graphic novels or highly illustrated chapter books, mirroring the engaging format of Dog Man.
“It’s Funny!”
The primary draw for many readers is Dog Man‘s laugh-out-loud humor, which ranges from slapstick to the delightfully absurd. If humor is the main appeal, consider these titles:
- The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey: This Australian series about a group of criminal animals attempting to do good shares significant crossover appeal with Dog Man. Kids consistently report that it makes them laugh, and its highly illustrated chapter book format is often perceived as a comic by young readers.
- Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey: It’s a natural progression for Dog Man fans to explore Dav Pilkey’s other beloved series. Captain Underpants serves as an excellent bridge from graphic novels to chapter books, even featuring character crossovers.
- Lunch Lady by Jarrett J. Krosoczka: In this graphic novel series, a seemingly ordinary school lunch lady is revealed to be a secret agent. Reviews often describe these books as “laugh out loud funny,” a sentiment echoed by young readers.
- The Yeti Files by Kevin Sherry: This series of cute and funny illustrated chapter books follows a Yeti on a mission to study other humanoid creatures. They are quick reads, keeping readers engaged with imaginative illustrations.
- Stick Dog by Tom Watson: An easy-to-read chapter book perfect for reluctant readers, this series features sketches of Stick Dog on a quest for the perfect hamburger.
- Binky the Space Cat by Ashley Spires: Binky embarks on a space adventure but worries about who will protect his owners from aliens. Kids are drawn to the humor, often derived from the exaggerated cat’s perspective and fun illustrations. This series is particularly suitable for younger Dog Man fans, around ages 7-8.
- Hilo by Judd Winick: The Hilo graphic novel series, categorized as high interest, low reading level, is another excellent choice. The titular character, Hilo, is a superhero who mysteriously appears on Earth. Notable figures like Dav Pilkey, Neil Gaiman, and Seth Meyers have provided blurbs for this series.
- CatStronauts by Drew Brockington: Follow four elite cat astronauts as they explore space. This silly and action-packed series, where all characters are cats, is filled with jokes and is a personal favorite.
“It’s Exciting!”
For readers who are drawn to the high stakes and battles in Dog Man, action and adventure graphic novels offer thrilling narratives.
- Mighty Jack by Ben Hatke: This series follows Jack, an ordinary kid who is pulled into a fantasy world filled with magical creatures and ongoing wars. It shares Dog Man‘s cartoony style, humorous moments, and genuine excitement. Consider also the Mighty Jack and Zita the Spacegirl crossover graphic novels.
- Kung Pow Chicken by Cyndi Marko: The title alone is often enough to elicit a laugh. This highly illustrated early chapter book is perfect for younger, reluctant readers, featuring a fast-paced plot about a superhero chicken.
- Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi: One of the most popular children’s graphic novel series, Amulet unfolds like a cinematic adventure. Emily must learn to harness the power of a magical amulet to save her family and the world. It’s a fantasy story with high stakes and deep character development.
- The Sand Warrior by Mark Siegel, Alexis Siegel, and Xanthe Bouma: Similar in premise to Amulet but lighter and more cartoony, this graphic novel series features three unlikely children who unite to save their worlds from a space war, complete with magic, battles, and slapstick comedy.
- Cleopatra in Space by Mike Maihack: Imagine Cleopatra transported to the future to battle a space tyrant. This action-packed, funny, and unexpected series showcases her combat skills in an epic prophecy.
- Three Thieves series by Scott Chandler: This adventure-packed graphic novel series follows three circus performers who undertake various missions. The books are rich in heart and gripping mysteries, ideal for older Dog Man fans who enjoy adventure.
- Percy Jackson graphic novel series by Rick Riordan: When mythological creatures invade Percy Jackson’s life, he becomes a hero, angering the gods and embarking on an epic adventure. This series is perfect for younger readers looking to engage with the Percy Jackson universe.
- Minecraft graphic novel series by Sfé R. Monster and Sarah Graley: For kids who enjoy both Minecraft and Dog Man, this series is an easy sell. It tells a diverse story about three kids who connect through playing Minecraft, appealing to older Dog Man readers. Numerous official and unofficial Minecraft chapter books also exist for younger audiences.
- DC Superhero Girls by Shay Fontana and Yancey Labat: This series features iconic superheroes like Batgirl, Harley Quinn, Wonder Woman, and Supergirl as they fight villains and forge friendships. It’s an entertaining and broadly appealing graphic novel series.
- Avatar: The Last Airbender by Gene Luen Yang, Bryan Konietzko, Michael Dante DiMartino: While more focused on fantasy than humor, Avatar can quickly captivate readers. This graphic novel series, alongside the TV show, features multiple magical worlds and brave heroes, with plenty of adventure.
- The Nameless City by Faith Erin Hicks: This series leans more towards adventure and relationships than humor, making it a potential transition for older readers into more complex narratives. Known for its strong world-building and satisfying character arcs, it maintains a cartoony style that may appeal to Dog Man readers open to more serious themes.
“I like the robots!”
The imaginative characters, including robots, are another reason children gravitate towards Dog Man. If fantasy elements and unique creatures are a draw, consider these:
- Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke: This highly recommended graphic novel follows Zita as she’s pulled through a portal to an alien planet and must find her way home. It appeals to many levels, particularly with its cool robot and alien characters, much like Dog Man.
- Jedi Academy by Jeffry Brown: Packed with cartoonish representations of Star Wars characters, this easy-to-read series is a safe bet for kids who enjoy imaginative characters and Dog Man.
- Plants vs Zombies by Paul Tobin: Based on the popular video game, this graphic novel series features killer plants and hungry zombies, making it accessible for readers excited by bizarre characters.
- Phoebe and her Unicorn series by Dana Simpson: If unicorns are even remotely interesting, this series is a fantastic choice. It’s cartoony and irreverent, with a comic strip style that leaves readers feeling good.
Other suggestions in this category include: Artemis Fowl: The Graphic Novel by Eoin Colfer, Laser Moose and Rabbit Boy by Doug Savage, Hilda and the Troll by Luke Pearson, Aquicorn Cove by Katie O’Neill, and Ghost Hog by Joey Weiser.
“I just like Dog Man and Lil’ Petey!”
While less common than requests for humor or excitement, some readers simply connect with the characters themselves. Dog Man excels at character development amidst its action. For those who appreciate this aspect, explore:
- Big Nate by Lincoln Peirce: Available in both novel and graphic novel formats, Big Nate is set in a sixth-grade classroom and follows the rebellious prankster Nate, his family, and friends. It offers plenty of silly moments alongside genuine relationship dynamics.
- Ivy and Bean by Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall: These short, illustrated chapter books feature two opposite girls who become best friends and embark on magical adventures together. They are suitable for younger Dog Man fans.
- The Sisters series by Christophe Cazenove and William Maury: This cartoony and easy-to-read graphic novel series, popular in the UK before North America, explores the often dramatic relationship between two sisters.
- Smile by Raina Telgemeier: For readers who enjoy relationship stories and may have already discovered Sisters and Guts, Smile is a mega-popular graphic novel series addressing relatable themes of anxiety, bullying, and family. Other similar titles include Real Friends by Shannon Hale, Making Friends by Kristen Gudsnuck, Sunny Side Up by Jennifer L. Holm, Invisible Emmie by Terri Libenson, and the illustrated chapter book series The Derby Daredevils by Kit Rosewater.
- Baby-sitter’s Club Graphic Novels by Ann M. Martin and Gale Galligan: With a popular Netflix show and a successful graphic novel reboot, the Baby-sitter’s Club is experiencing a resurgence. Kids who enjoy cartoony relationship stories without overly heavy themes will find these appealing. Younger readers can explore the Baby-Sitters Little Sisters series.
“It’s a Cartoon!”
Readers drawn to the cartoonish aesthetic of Dog Man appreciate easy-to-read, bright, exaggerated, and highly illustrated books.
- Adventure Time: Based on the beloved Cartoon Network series, these graphic novels feel like watching the show. They are fun, ridiculous, imaginative, and positive, enjoyable even for those unfamiliar with the original series.
- Garfield: Children continue to read Garfield, with many drawn to the Papercutz series adapted from the Cartoon Network show. It offers easy, slapstick comedy and animal cartoons.
- Snoopy the Beagle of Mars: This comic appeals due to its recognizable character, dog protagonist, and adventure plot. It’s a classic cartoon with a similar text volume to Dog Man.
- Teen Titans GO! and Tiny Titans: Teen Titans GO! is great for fans of the show, while Tiny Titans is ideal for younger Dog Man enthusiasts. The plots are fast-paced, mimicking cartoon episodes, with engaging art styles.
- Bravest Warriors: This sweet graphic novel series, set in the distant future, is reminiscent of Adventure Time. It’s a good choice for older Dog Man readers who enjoy cartoons, offering adventure, wholesome humor, and strong character development.
Additional recommendations in this category include: My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Scooby Doo, Steven Universe, Pokemon Manga, Chi’s Sweet Home, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid.
“I don’t know!”
When a reader can’t articulate their reasons for loving Dog Man, or if an interview isn’t possible, relying on universally appealing options is best. The most thematically and stylistically similar books to Dog Man include: The Bad Guys, Captain Underpants, Jedi Academy, Lunch Lady, and Big Nate. For children who feel pressured or unable to express their preferences, offering a stack of these books and encouraging them to read the first few pages allows them to choose what they like, reducing any sense of obligation.
Dog Man‘s success lies in its wide appeal, making it an effective gateway to other books. By understanding the specific elements that draw readers in, librarians and parents can help children discover their next favorite literary adventure.
What Dog Man read-alikes do you recommend, and for which types of readers?