70 books like Balto of the Blue Dawn

By Mary Pope Osborne, Sal Murdocca (illustrator),

Here are 70 books that Balto of the Blue Dawn fans have personally recommended if you like Balto of the Blue Dawn. Shepherd is a community of 10,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

Shepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Book cover of Dog Driven

Natalie Rompella Author Of Cookie Cutters & Sled Runners

From my list on middle grade sled-dogs.

Why am I passionate about this?

Sled dog racing? I knew nothing about it most of my life. I became interested after writing a nonfiction book on the history of sled dog racing. So interested, I wrote a novel on it—Cookie Cutters & Sled Runners. I attended local sprint races and even traveled to Alaska to see the start of the Iditarod. I learned so much watching the mushers prepare and the excitement of the dogs. I still enjoy watching the Iditarod, the Yukon Quest, and local sprint races. I’m excited to share a list of great sled-dog books. What I like about my list is that all the books are so different! 

Natalie's book list on middle grade sled-dogs

Natalie Rompella Why did Natalie love this book?

Terry Lynn Johnson has written many books on sled dogs. Dog Driven does a great job of sharing what a junior race is like: the competitiveness, the setbacks, and the thrill of the sport. It also addresses facing an issue head-on. In this book, the main character is struggling with worsening eyesight. I think middle grade readers will relate to feeling apprehensive when facing something difficult. 

By Terry Lynn Johnson,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

From the author of Ice Dogs comes a riveting adventure about a musher who sets out to prove her impaired vision won't hold her back from competing in a rigorous sled race through the Canadian wilderness. Perfect for fans of Gary Paulsen. McKenna Barney is trying to hide her worsening eyesight and has been isolating herself for the last year. But at the request of her little sister, she signs up for a commemorative mail run race in the Canadian wilderness - a race she doesn't know if she can even see to run. Winning would mean getting her disease…


Book cover of Diamond Willow

Natalie Rompella Author Of Cookie Cutters & Sled Runners

From my list on middle grade sled-dogs.

Why am I passionate about this?

Sled dog racing? I knew nothing about it most of my life. I became interested after writing a nonfiction book on the history of sled dog racing. So interested, I wrote a novel on it—Cookie Cutters & Sled Runners. I attended local sprint races and even traveled to Alaska to see the start of the Iditarod. I learned so much watching the mushers prepare and the excitement of the dogs. I still enjoy watching the Iditarod, the Yukon Quest, and local sprint races. I’m excited to share a list of great sled-dog books. What I like about my list is that all the books are so different! 

Natalie's book list on middle grade sled-dogs

Natalie Rompella Why did Natalie love this book?

This is my new favorite book. It takes place in a remote town in Alaska where residents must travel by dog sled. Each page has a poem written in a diamond shape that contains a hidden message. Not many books have such a unique format. But what really made the book exciting were the many twists and turns in the plot. (I also learned about diamond willow, but I won’t spoil it for you!)

By Helen Frost,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Diamond Willow as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 10, 11, 12, and 13.

What is this book about?

There's
more to me than
most people
see.

Twelve-year-old Willow would rather blend in than stick out. But she still wants to be seen for who she is. She wants her parents to notice that she is growing up. She wants her best friend to like her better than she likes a certain boy. She wants, more than anything, to mush the dogs out to her grandparents' house, by herself, with Roxy in the lead. But sometimes when it's just you, one mistake can have frightening consequences . . . And when Willow stumbles, it takes a surprising group of…


Book cover of Dashing Through the Snow, the Story of the Jr. Iditarod

Natalie Rompella Author Of Cookie Cutters & Sled Runners

From my list on middle grade sled-dogs.

Why am I passionate about this?

Sled dog racing? I knew nothing about it most of my life. I became interested after writing a nonfiction book on the history of sled dog racing. So interested, I wrote a novel on it—Cookie Cutters & Sled Runners. I attended local sprint races and even traveled to Alaska to see the start of the Iditarod. I learned so much watching the mushers prepare and the excitement of the dogs. I still enjoy watching the Iditarod, the Yukon Quest, and local sprint races. I’m excited to share a list of great sled-dog books. What I like about my list is that all the books are so different! 

Natalie's book list on middle grade sled-dogs

Natalie Rompella Why did Natalie love this book?

Dashing Through the Snow tells readers what it’s like to compete in the Jr. Iditarod. This nonfiction book was a great resource when I was doing research for my book. Not only was the text great, but there were photos showing various aspects of the race, including what it’s like to sleep on the side of a sled-dog trail. Anyone who’s interested in the sport and hasn’t heard of a “gangline” or a “dropped dog” will find the definitions in the glossary useful. 

By Sherry Shahan,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Dashing Through the Snow, the Story of the Jr. Iditarod 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?

2005 Mondo Book Shop Level R -- Dashing through the Snow: The Story of the Jr. Iditarod (Paperback)(10"x8.5"x0.15") Written & Photographed by Sherry Shahan ***ISBN-13: 9781593367145 ***32 Pages


Book cover of Sled Dog School

Natalie Rompella Author Of Cookie Cutters & Sled Runners

From my list on middle grade sled-dogs.

Why am I passionate about this?

Sled dog racing? I knew nothing about it most of my life. I became interested after writing a nonfiction book on the history of sled dog racing. So interested, I wrote a novel on it—Cookie Cutters & Sled Runners. I attended local sprint races and even traveled to Alaska to see the start of the Iditarod. I learned so much watching the mushers prepare and the excitement of the dogs. I still enjoy watching the Iditarod, the Yukon Quest, and local sprint races. I’m excited to share a list of great sled-dog books. What I like about my list is that all the books are so different! 

Natalie's book list on middle grade sled-dogs

Natalie Rompella Why did Natalie love this book?

Yes, I chose a second book by Terry Lynn Johnson. The two books I chose are quite different in both subject matter and tone though. This book is a light-hearted story about eleven-year-old Matt who starts his own business for his school project. He chooses sled-dog training. I’ve always loved books about kid-run businesses, and this one has a great cast of characters.

By Terry Lynn Johnson,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Sled Dog School as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 9, 10, 11, and 12.

What is this book about?

Eleven-year-old Matt is struggling in school and he has to set up his own business to save his failing math grade. But what is he even good at? The only thing he truly loves is his team of dogs, and so Matt's Sled Dog School is born. Teaching dogsledding should be easy, right? But people, just like dogs, can be unpredictable. And sometimes the bravest thing a person can do is admit they need help. Like Terry Lynn Johnson's popular Ice Dogs, Sled Dog School is about overcoming adversity, finding your strengths, and your friends, and following your passions. AGES:…


Book cover of The 117-Storey Treehouse

Kerrie Noor Author Of The Other Side Of Yes

From my list on humor that make me comfortable with my own failings.

Why am I passionate about this?

I like to write characters and situations that readers relate to and find reassurance from. Laughter comes from shared experiences of frustration and mistakes, it reassures us that we are normal and not alone, giving us a big hug when feeling overwhelmed or down. I love the healing power of comedy and use it in all my work. Reading how other authors use comedy improves my writing and expands my viewpoint. I also perform comedy with a mixture of storytelling, standup, and belly dancing, I learn from the audience's reaction and feedback, which not only feeds into my novels but makes me feel like a million dollars.

Kerrie's book list on humor that make me comfortable with my own failings

Kerrie Noor Why did Kerrie love this book?

I was asked to do some storytelling for children, then regretted accepting until I found this book. Born in Australia but now living in Scotland, I miss the humor I grew up with.

This fantastic children's book gave me the confidence to "go all out," lose my rigid upbringing, and allow the little girl in me to tell the story as she had not only been forbidden to do but made to feel ashamed that she wanted to.

By Andy Griffiths, Terry Denton (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The 117-Storey Treehouse as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 7, 8, 9, and 10.

What is this book about?

There are lots of laughs at every level in The 117-Storey Treehouse, the ninth book in the number one bestselling Treehouse series from Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton.

Andy and Terry have added another thirteen levels of crazy fun to their every-growing treehouse (it used to be a 104-story treehouse, but it just keeps growing!) They've got a tiny-horse level, a pyjama-party room and an Underpants Museum and Treehouse Information Centre! But Andy and Terry have found themselves running from the Story Police and the only way to escape, is through the terrifying Door of Doom!

For as long as…


Book cover of The 13-Story Treehouse

Karen McMillan Author Of Rainbow Cove

From my list on encouraging the 'theater of the mind'.

Why am I passionate about this?

I'm an author from New Zealand, who writes fiction and non-fiction for adults, but I'm also an accidental children's book writer. Accidental? I never thought I would write books for children, but the then 10-year-old in our family demanded a children's book, and the popular Elastic Island Adventures series was born. I always remember how much joy I got from discovering books as a child, so I'm interested in books that are fun for children but encourage creativity and literacy. I love when books are so enjoyable that children don't realize how much they are learning, where they can enjoy exploring the 'theater of the mind'.

Karen's book list on encouraging the 'theater of the mind'

Karen McMillan Why did Karen love this book?

The Treehouse series of books have got thousands of reluctant readers hooked on books, so all the books in this series are winners, in my view. With the fun premise of characters living in a multi-layered treehouse, making books and having fun adventures, who wouldn't love these stories? The books are a perfect blend of a page-turning story and fantastic illustrations that will keep children turning the pages. 

By Andy Griffiths, Terry Denton (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The 13-Story Treehouse 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?

Andy and Terry live in a treehouse. But it's not just any old treehouse, it's the most amazing treehouse in the world!

This treehouse has thirteen stories, a bowling alley, a see-through swimming pool, a secret underground laboratory, and a marshmallow machine that follows you around and automatically shoots marshmallows into your mouth whenever you are hungry.

Life would be perfect for Andy and Terry if it wasn't for the fact that they have to write their next book, which is almost impossible because there are just so many distractions, including thirteen flying cats, giant bananas, mermaids, a sea monsters…


Book cover of Up in the Treehouse

Lexi Kingston Author Of Forever June

From my list on vacation romance to get you into a summer state of mind.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a contemporary romance author who writes in paranormal romance on the side, but everything I write always comes down to one thing, and that’s the romance between characters. I love books that make me connect to and root for the main protagonists, no matter their flaws or situation. I specifically love romance novels that take place during the summer or in places that are warm year-round because no matter what season it is when you read them, you’re immediately transported to a warm, sunny, swoon-worthy world.

Lexi's book list on vacation romance to get you into a summer state of mind

Lexi Kingston Why did Lexi love this book?

This book is all about second chances and restructuring the foundation of what was once a beautiful friendship into so much more.

The plotline and the characters tugged on my heartstrings like no other, and I loved the development from their childhood into adulthood. I’m also an absolute sucker for emotional scars, and this book delivered in every sense of the trope.

By K K Allen,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Up in the Treehouse as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Romantic Times WINNER for Best New Adult Book of the Year

"I wanted to tell him all my secrets, but he became one of them instead."

Chloe Rivers never thought she would keep secrets from her best friend, Gavin Rhodes. Then again, she never imagined she would fall in love with him either. When she finally reveals her feelings, rejection shatters her, rendering her vulnerable and sending her straight into the destructive arms of the wrong guy.

The Rhodes twins never saw the betrayal coming. Chloe has always been their forbidden fantasy--sweet, beautiful, and tempting. But soon the lines between…


Book cover of House Held Up by Trees

Norm Konyu Author Of The Junction

From my list on illustrated books for ‘grown-ups’.

Why am I passionate about this?

At some point in our tweens, we learn that picture books are for children, and comic books are for nerds. I personally never heard it spoken aloud. It was more that thinly disguised looks of disapproval from adults delivered the message. As a graphic novelist, it sometimes feels like an uphill battle. I find pushing a reluctant ‘grown-up’ straight to graphic novels is perhaps a step too far. A start is an illustrated book. No speech bubbles. No comic book panels. Just illustrations supporting text, and text supporting illustrations. And sometimes, just sometimes, this opens the door to graphic novels.

Norm's book list on illustrated books for ‘grown-ups’

Norm Konyu Why did Norm love this book?

This book is so evocative, a marriage of poetic words and nuanced illustrations so successful that when I first read it, it immediately took me back decades to my childhood and the old barn on my parents’ property. I could almost smell the pine trees through the barn boards, hear the birds nested in the rafters, and feel the summer sun on my face. 

By Ted Kooser, Jon Klassen (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked House Held Up by Trees as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

From Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Ted Kooser and Kate Greenaway winner Jon Klassen comes a poignant tale of loss, change and nature's quiet triumph.

From Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Ted Kooser and Jon Klassen, author-illustrator of the first ever title to win both the Kate Greenaway and Caldecott Medal, comes a lovely, lyrical exploration of loss, change and the natural world, and a story about a house over the passage of time. When the house was new, not a single tree remained on its perfect lawn to give shade from the sun. The children in the house trailed the scent of wild…


Book cover of Beatrice and Croc Harry

Michelle Mulder Author Of After Peaches

From my list on kids’ stories about speaking up.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a kid, I rarely spoke up, and I certainly didn’t think I had much influence. As a young adult, though, I came across true stories of kids who stood up for what they believed in. These kids inspired many of my own books, and now whenever I’m looking for something to read, I look for novels about kids who screw up their courage to speak up for a fairer, more inclusive, richer world.

Michelle's book list on kids’ stories about speaking up

Michelle Mulder Why did Michelle love this book?

You know those books with characters so real that, when you’re not reading, you miss them and wonder what they’re up to? That’s what happened to me with Beatrice and Croc Harry. I didn’t think I liked stories involving talking animals, but wow, was I wrong. This book taught me that serious books can also be delightfully whimsical and funny. This novel is one of the best books I’ve read on hatred and racism, forgiveness, and love.

By Lawrence Hill,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

One of Canada’s most celebrated author’s debut novel for young readers

Beatrice, a young girl of uncertain age, wakes up all alone in a tree house in the forest. How did she arrive in this cozy dwelling, stocked carefully with bookshelves and oatmeal accoutrements? And who has been leaving a trail of clues, composed in delicate purple handwriting?

So begins the adventure of a brave and resilient Black girl’s search for identity and healing in bestselling author Lawrence Hill’s middle-grade debut. Though Beatrice cannot recall how or why she arrived in the magical forest of Argilia—where every conceivable fish, bird,…


Book cover of The Chick Palace

Brandi Reeds Author Of Trespassing

From my list on starring empowered women.

Why am I passionate about this?

My life, in particular, has been a series of challenges to overcome, from an attempted kidnapping at age eight to surviving breast cancer (twice!) before the age of forty-five. I believe in a world of equal opportunity, but I know the pursuit of happiness takes hard work. As a general contractor in the male-dominated construction industry, I’m well aware of gender biases in our world and the dedication it takes to overcome them. However, the struggle empowers us all, and even small victories inspire us to overcome adversity. Life is a survival story, and art imitates life. So I crave, read, and write novels starring empowered women.

Brandi's book list on starring empowered women

Brandi Reeds Why did Brandi love this book?

To say Guccione influences me would be an understatement, as she was one of my first mentors in the industry. The Chick Palace is unusual, in that it’s centered around the back nine of life—after children are grown, and after aging parents are no longer a responsibility, when the time has come for women to focus on themselves. However, Guccione’s usual colorful characters and robust setting will take you on a vacation well deserved in this era, not to mention in the brutal cold of winter. 

The same goes for Trespassing’s Veronica, in a sense. She’s at a crossroads, and perhaps for the first time, she’s making decisions without the influence of a man. Add to that the backdrop of Key West, and you’ll find yourself on a mental retreat.

By Leslie Davis Guccione,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

A novel of female friendship and summer romance from the RITA Award finalist and creator of the Branigan Brothers series.
 
Three dilemmas. Two friends. One abandoned treehouse.
 
Johanna Lawrence and Lilly Covington have a friendship that spans decades. From their days as college roommates to the years after as lakeside neighbors, they’ve offered each other sympathy, support, and solace for life’s rough edges. As they find themselves together for another summer and a new set of crossroads in their lives—Johanna having lost her mother, Lilly an empty-nester on her second divorce from the same man—they commandeer their sons’ long-abandoned treehouse…


5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in Alaska, presidential biography, and time travel?

10,000+ authors have recommended their favorite books and what they love about them. Browse their picks for the best books about Alaska, presidential biography, and time travel.

Alaska Explore 97 books about Alaska
Presidential Biography Explore 19 books about presidential biography
Time Travel Explore 363 books about time travel