Year published: 1987
Pretty much all ’90s kids grew up reading “Henry and Mudge,” and in our opinion, it’s a great read for any first grader. The realism is refreshing, and kids will relate to the adventures and companionship of young Henry and his beloved dog, Mudge.
At first, Henry is lonely. He’s an only child with no friends nearby, and Mudge becomes his partner in crime. They make plenty of messes, get into trouble and eventually find the friends they’ve both been longing for. If the first one is a hit with your kiddo, there are 27 more in the series to binge-read.