If you’re a parent, educator, or simply a guardian of a young reader, chances are you’ve encountered the phenomenon that is Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man series. These wildly popular graphic novels, celebrated for their outrageous humor, thrilling adventures, and surprisingly heartfelt character development, have captivated millions of children aged 6 to 10. They are a true gateway to a lifelong love of reading, turning even the most reluctant readers into enthusiastic bookworms. Here at Dog Care Story, we understand the importance of fostering a love for reading in young minds, as engaging with stories can spark imagination and compassion – qualities often reflected in how we care for our beloved pets.
The common question echoes in libraries and homes worldwide: “My child loves Dog Man! What are the best Books To Read Dog Man fans next?” While it’s tempting to just list popular titles, a more effective approach is to delve into why a child loves Dog Man. Is it the laugh-out-loud moments, the high-stakes action, the inventive characters, or the visual storytelling? Understanding their specific preferences helps unlock a treasure trove of new stories that will resonate just as deeply. This guide aims to help you navigate the vast world of children’s literature to find the perfect Dog Man readalikes, ensuring the next book is as engaging and exciting as the last. For those looking for more Dog Man content, you might want to explore how to read books online free dog man or find a comprehensive list of dog man books.
Understanding Your Child’s Reading Preferences
The magic of Dog Man lies in its multifaceted appeal. Its blend of silliness, adventure, and emotion ensures that there’s something for every young reader. By identifying which element most captures your child’s imagination, we can recommend books to read Dog Man enthusiasts that hit all the right notes. We’ve categorized our recommendations based on the most common reasons kids express their love for Dog Man, all featuring either graphic novel formats or highly illustrated chapter books to maintain a familiar and engaging reading experience.
“It’s Funny!”: For the Laughter-Loving Reader
Unquestionably, the most frequent answer you’ll hear is, “It’s funny!” Dog Man‘s humor is legendary – often slapstick, sometimes toilet-based, and consistently over-the-top. If your child is constantly giggling while reading Pilkey’s creations, these humor-driven books are sure to be a hit. They offer similar laugh-out-loud moments and lighthearted fun, making them excellent choices for those seeking books to read Dog Man if humor is the main draw.
The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey
This hilarious Australian series follows a group of notoriously criminal animals—Mr. Wolf, Mr. Piranha, Mr. Snake, and Mr. Shark—who decide to turn over a new leaf and become “good.” Their attempts, however, often lead to comedic chaos. Kids rave about how much this highly illustrated chapter book series makes them laugh, often referring to them as comics due to their dynamic visual storytelling. It shares a similar zany energy and focus on unlikely heroes that resonates with Dog Man fans.
Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey
It almost goes without saying, but for children who adore Dog Man, Dav Pilkey’s original superhero series, Captain Underpants, is a must-read. Not only does it share the same creator’s signature brand of irreverent humor and flip-o-rama action, but it also features character crossovers that provide a familiar bridge. These books are a fantastic stepping stone from pure graphic novels to more traditional chapter books, blending text and illustrations seamlessly. They perfectly capture the spirit of imaginative play and silly antics that define Pilkey’s work.
Lunch Lady by Jarrett J. Krosoczka
In this delightful graphic novel series, the seemingly ordinary lunch lady at an elementary school leads a double life as a secret agent. Armed with gadgets disguised as kitchen tools, she and her trusty assistant protect students from various villains. Reviews frequently describe these books as “laugh-out-loud funny,” a sentiment echoed by countless children who eagerly devour them. The engaging blend of mystery, action, and humor makes them a great option for Dog Man readalikes.
The Yeti Files by Kevin Sherry
A wonderfully cute and funny series of illustrated chapter books, The Yeti Files centers around Blizz, a Yeti whose mission is to study other humanoid creatures while trying to avoid being discovered himself. These books are quick reads, packed with imaginative illustrations that keep readers hooked. The whimsical premise and lighthearted tone make them an appealing choice for children who enjoy Dog Man‘s quirky characters and visual gags.
Stick Dog by Tom Watson
Stick Dog is an easy-to-read chapter book series, ideal for children who might be hesitant to dive into a longer novel. It’s filled with simple, humorous sketches of Stick Dog and his friends as they embark on various quests, often involving food. For instance, one adventure sees them trying to find the perfect hamburger. The straightforward storytelling and frequent illustrations provide an accessible and amusing reading experience, reminiscent of Dog Man‘s charming simplicity.
Binky the Space Cat by Ashley Spires
Binky, a house cat convinced he’s a “space cat,” prepares for his mission to outer space, but not before ensuring his humans are safe from potential alien invasions. The humor in this series often stems from the exaggerated perspective of a house cat’s “important” duties. With very silly, fun illustrations, Binky the Space Cat is an excellent choice for younger Dog Man fans, typically ages 7-8, who appreciate animal-centric humor and imaginative adventures.
Hilo by Judd Winick
Often categorized alongside Dog Man for its “high interest, low reading level” appeal, the Hilo graphic novel series is a thrilling adventure. Hilo is a superhero kid who mysteriously crash-lands on Earth with no memory of where he came from, quickly befriending two Earth kids. Dav Pilkey himself has blurbed this series, a testament to its quality and similar appeal. It’s packed with action, humor, and a touching story about friendship, making it a fantastic addition to the list of books to read Dog Man fans will enjoy. You can find out more about similar titles and where to access them by searching for dog man books to read online.
CatStronauts by Drew Brockington
In this highly silly and action-packed series, the four best “catstronauts” on Earth blast off into space to explore the universe in the name of science. The entire cast consists of cats, which provides endless opportunities for feline-themed jokes and comedic situations. This series offers a fantastic blend of sci-fi adventure and humor, making it a personal favorite for many and a perfect choice for children who enjoy the lighthearted fun and unique characters found in Dog Man.
“It’s Exciting!”: For Thrill-Seeking Adventures
Readers who are drawn to the epic battles, high stakes, and fast-paced plots in Dog Man will likely gravitate towards action and adventure graphic novels. This is a vast category, but we’ve handpicked titles that are either incredibly popular, share a similar style to Dog Man, or both. These books deliver the adrenaline-pumping excitement that keeps young readers on the edge of their seats.
Mighty Jack by Ben Hatke
Mighty Jack introduces us to Jack, a seemingly normal kid who finds his mundane summer transformed when he’s pulled into a magical fantasy world through a mysterious portal. There, he discovers magical creatures and becomes deeply involved in their ongoing wars. Like Dog Man, this graphic novel is very cartoony, includes several silly moments, and is genuinely exciting. The series also extends into the Mighty Jack and Zita the Spacegirl crossover graphic novels, offering even more adventure.
Kung Pow Chicken by Cyndi Marko
The title alone is enough to elicit a giggle from many kids! This highly illustrated early chapter book series is tailored for younger, reluctant readers. The plot is incredibly fast-paced, centering on a superhero chicken who fights crime. The premise, much like Dog Man‘s superhero canine, offers a quirky hero embarking on thrilling adventures, making it an excellent match for children who appreciate high-energy storytelling and animal protagonists.
Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi
One of the most popular graphic novel series for kids, Amulet reads like an epic movie. Emily and her brother Navin discover a magical amulet after moving into their great-grandfather’s mysterious house. Emily must learn to use the amulet’s immense powers to save her family from a dangerous creature and ultimately, the world. This fantasy story is brimming with high-stakes adventure, intricate world-building, and profound character development, offering a deeper narrative for older books to read Dog Man fans.
The Sand Warrior by Mark Siegel, Alexis Siegel, and Xanthe Bouma
Slightly lighter in tone and more cartoony than Amulet, The Sand Warrior series shares a similar premise of grand adventure. In this graphic novel series, three unlikely kids from different worlds are brought together by destiny to help save their realms from an impending space war. It’s packed with magic, thrilling adventures, intense battles, and a healthy dose of slapstick comedy, appealing to readers who enjoy a mix of excitement and humor.
Cleopatra in Space by Mike Maihack
Imagine the historical Cleopatra from ancient Egypt being whisked away into the distant future to fulfill an ancient prophecy and fight a space tyrant. This action-packed, funny, and wonderfully unexpected graphic novel series sees Cleopatra hone her awesome combat skills while navigating a new galaxy. It’s an engaging blend of historical fiction, sci-fi, and adventure that will keep readers hooked.
Three Thieves series by Scott Chandler
This adventure-packed graphic novel series follows three circus performers—a juggler, a strongman, and an acrobat—who work together on various missions and uncover mysteries. These books are not only full of gripping plot twists and high-flying action but also contain a lot of heart, exploring themes of friendship and loyalty. They are particularly well-suited for older Dog Man fans who appreciate adventure stories with emotional depth.
Percy Jackson Graphic Novel Series by Rick Riordan
For children ready to explore the world of Greek mythology mixed with modern-day adventures, the Percy Jackson graphic novel series is an ideal choice. When mythological creatures begin appearing in Percy’s regular life, he discovers he’s a demigod and is thrust into an epic adventure, often angering the Olympian gods. These adaptations are perfect for younger readers looking to get started with the beloved Percy Jackson saga, offering dynamic visuals and engaging storytelling. To ensure you don’t miss out on any of the exciting adventures, consider checking out the dog man collection in order.
Minecraft Graphic Novel Series by Sfé R. Monster and Sarah Graley
If a child enjoys both Minecraft and Dog Man, simply showing them the cover of this graphic novel series will likely pique their interest. This diverse story follows three kids who know each other through playing Minecraft together, bringing their virtual world to life in exciting ways. It’s a fantastic option for older Dog Man readers who are also fans of the popular video game. Additionally, there are numerous official and unofficial Minecraft chapter books that would appeal to younger readers, expanding their reading choices.
DC Superhero Girls by Shay Fontana and Yancey Labat
Featuring an incredible lineup of beloved heroines like Batgirl, Harley Quinn, Wonder Woman, Supergirl, and Bumble Bee, this series sees them fighting evil villains while developing strong friendships. These graphic novels are entertaining and widely appealing, offering action-packed stories with positive messages about teamwork and empowerment. They’re a great choice for children who love superhero antics and vibrant visuals.
Avatar: The Last Airbender by Gene Luen Yang, Bryan Konietzko, Michael Dante DiMartino
While perhaps more fun than outright funny, the Avatar: The Last Airbender graphic novel series has a remarkable ability to quickly hook readers and become an obsession. Based on the acclaimed TV show, this fantasy series delves into multiple magical worlds, featuring brave heroes, intricate lore, and compelling conflicts. It’s a wonderful pick for children ready for a slightly more complex narrative with plenty of adventure and memorable characters.
The Nameless City by Faith Erin Hicks
The Nameless City is primarily a story of adventure and complex relationships rather than humor, making it a good transition for older Dog Man readers into more substantial narratives. Known for its fantastic world-building and satisfying character arcs, it still maintains a cartoony art style that will feel familiar. If a Dog Man reader is open to a slightly more serious, yet equally engaging, story, this graphic novel series is highly recommended.
“I Like the Robots!”: For Imaginative Characters & Fantasy
Often, kids will mention a secondary reason for loving Dog Man: its imaginative characters, particularly the robots and other fantastical creations. These readers are likely more receptive to stories featuring unique creatures, advanced technology, and fantastical elements. These books to read Dog Man fans will ignite their imagination with incredible beings and worlds.
Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
Over the years, Zita the Spacegirl has been placed in the hands of countless readers. This captivating graphic novel tells the story of a girl who gets accidentally sucked into a portal and must find her way back home from a strange alien planet. Like Dog Man, it appeals on many levels, with one of the main draws being the array of cool robots and fascinating alien creatures Zita encounters. It’s an imaginative and heartfelt space adventure.
Jedi Academy by Jeffry Brown
Easy-to-read and bursting with cartoon representations of the wildest Star Wars characters, Jedi Academy is a pretty safe bet if kids like imaginative characters and Dog Man. The series follows a young boy named Roan as he navigates the challenges of attending a Jedi Academy, complete with awkward friendships, school bullies, and mastering the Force. Its diary-style format and frequent illustrations make it highly accessible and entertaining for young fans of sci-fi and quirky humor.
Plants vs. Zombies by Paul Tobin
Originally a wildly popular video game, the Plants vs. Zombies graphic novel series translates the addictive premise of killer plants defending against hungry zombies into an engaging comic format. This series is easy to get into, especially for readers who are excited by the bizarre and diverse plant characters and the action-packed battles. It’s a fun, quirky, and visually stimulating choice for children who enjoy unique creature concepts.
Phoebe and Her Unicorn series by Dana Simpson
If the reader has any interest in unicorns, this series is an easy sell! Phoebe and Her Unicorn is a cartoony and irreverent comic strip-style graphic novel about a girl named Phoebe who befriends a vain but magical unicorn named Marigold Heavenly Nostrils. It shares Dog Man‘s whimsical humor and lighthearted tone, making readers feel good with its short, delightful bursts of comedy and charming illustrations. It’s perfect for those who enjoy imaginative companions and witty banter.
Also Try:
- Artemis Fowl: The Graphic Novel by Eoin Colfer: For fans of fantasy, technology, and cunning young anti-heroes.
- Laser Moose and Rabbit Boy by Doug Savage: A wonderfully silly comic about two unlikely forest friends and their absurd adventures.
- Hilda and the Troll by Luke Pearson: A beautifully illustrated series about a brave young girl who explores a magical world filled with trolls, giants, and other mythical creatures.
- Aquicorn Cove by Katie O’Neill: A heartwarming story about a girl who discovers a hidden cove of magical sea creatures and learns about environmental responsibility.
- Ghost Hog by Joey Weiser: A charming and funny graphic novel about a young ghost hog trying to solve his own murder.
“I Just Like Dog Man and Lil Petey!”: For Character-Driven Stories
While not as common as preferences for humor or excitement, some readers simply connect with the heartfelt relationship between Dog Man and Lil Petey, or the strong character arcs present in the series. Dog Man books manage an impressive amount of character development amidst their action-packed pages. Readers who enjoy this aspect might also appreciate stories that focus on relatable characters, friendships, and personal growth. If your child wants to dive deeper into the series, searching for dog man books that i can read can provide a good starting point.
Big Nate by Lincoln Peirce
Big Nate exists as both a novel series and a graphic novel series, primarily set in a sixth-grade classroom. The stories revolve around Nate Wright, a rebellious prankster, aspiring drummer, and self-proclaimed genius, along with his family and friends. While packed with silly moments and school hijinks, there’s also genuine exploration of relationships, rivalries, and the everyday challenges of growing up. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven humor and relatable school life.
Ivy and Bean by Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall
Ivy and Bean is a delightful series about two girls who are complete opposites but become the best of friends, embarking on various adventures together. Oh, and sometimes they dabble in magic! These are short chapter books with abundant illustrations, making them excellent for younger Dog Man fans who appreciate stories about unique friendships and everyday discoveries. The simple yet charming narratives focus on the dynamics between the two strong personalities.
The Sisters series by Christophe Cazenove and William Maury
This very cartoony and easy-to-read graphic novel series gained popularity in the UK before making its way to North America. It humorously chronicles the often dramatic, yet always loving, relationship between two sisters, Wendy and Marine. Their everyday squabbles, reconciliations, and family life offer relatable insights into sibling dynamics, making it a hit for readers who enjoy character-focused stories with a touch of lighthearted drama.
Smile by Raina Telgemeier
If a reader knows Dog Man and enjoys relationship stories, there’s a very high chance they’ve already encountered Smile, Sisters, and Guts. However, just in case: Smile is a mega-popular graphic memoir that tells relatable stories about anxiety, bullying, and navigating family and friendships during adolescence. Telgemeier’s books are known for their honest portrayal of middle school life and emotional depth. Also consider: 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, all of which delve into similar themes of friendship and personal growth.
Baby-sitter’s Club Graphic Novels by Ann M. Martin and Gale Galligan
With a hit Netflix show and an incredibly popular graphic novel reboot, The Baby-sitter’s Club is experiencing a major resurgence. These graphic novels are perfect for kids who enjoy cartoony, character-driven relationship stories without anything too heavy. They follow a group of middle school friends who start a baby-sitting business, navigating challenges and forming strong bonds. Younger readers can also try The Baby-Sitters Little Sisters series for age-appropriate adventures.
“It’s a Cartoon!”: For Visually Engaging & Easy Reads
Readers who particularly enjoy the “cartoon” aspect of Dog Man are looking for other easy-to-read, bright, exaggerated, and highly illustrated books. These titles often mimic the fast pace and visual storytelling of animated shows, making them immediately engaging and accessible.
Adventure Time
There’s a vast selection of Adventure Time graphic novels to choose from, and they are as cartoony as it gets. Based on the incredibly popular all-ages Cartoon Network series, these graphic novels truly feel like you’re watching the show come to life. Kids don’t need to be existing fans of the animated series to enjoy the books, which are full of fun, ridiculous scenarios, highly imaginative worlds, and positive messages. They’re perfect for readers who love vibrant visuals and quirky narratives.
Garfield
Yes, kids are still reading Garfield! While some might be interested in the traditional comic-strip compilations, many more are drawn to the Papercutz series, which is adapted from the Cartoon Network show. These books offer easy, slapstick comedy featuring the world’s most famous orange cat and his friends. It’s a classic cartoon with timeless appeal, providing familiar characters and reliable humor, making it a great pick for those who enjoy animal cartoons.
Snoopy the Beagle of Mars
This comic could be an easy sell for several reasons: it features a recognizable character (Snoopy), he’s a dog, and it’s an adventure story! Snoopy the Beagle of Mars brings the beloved Peanuts character into a space adventure, maintaining the classic cartoon charm with a similar amount of text to Dog Man. It’s a delightful blend of nostalgia and new adventure, perfect for readers who love familiar characters and space exploration.
Teen Titans GO! and Tiny Titans
Teen Titans GO! graphic novels are fantastic for fans of the popular animated show, bringing the same energetic humor and dynamic action to the page. For the younger set of Dog Man fans, Tiny Titans offers a more age-appropriate, super-deformed take on the beloved DC characters. The plots in both series are quick-paced, much like watching a cartoon episode, and the art style is incredibly gripping and fun. They deliver superhero action with a comedic twist.
Bravest Warriors
A super sweet Adventure Time-esque series of graphic novels, Bravest Warriors is set in the distant future and follows four teenage heroes who travel through the galaxy saving alien worlds. This is a good choice for older Dog Man readers who enjoy cartoons, as it offers a blend of adventure, wholesome humor, and great character development. The imaginative storylines and vibrant artwork make it a captivating read for sci-fi and fantasy fans.
Also Try:
- My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
- Scooby Doo
- Steven Universe
- Sonic the Hedgehog
- Pokemon Manga
- Chi’s Sweet Home
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid
“I Don’t Know!”: When Preferences Are Unclear
Sometimes, the young reader isn’t available for an “interview,” or they simply can’t articulate why they love Dog Man. In such cases, it’s helpful to have a few go-to suggestions that broadly capture the essence of Pilkey’s appeal. The books to read Dog Man fans are most likely to enjoy, which are thematically and appealingly similar to Dog Man, would have to be: The Bad Guys, Captain Underpants, Jedi Academy, Lunch Lady, and Big Nate. These titles consistently hit the marks for humor, adventure, and engaging visuals.
When faced with an uncertain reader, it’s often best to provide a small stack of these popular titles. Encourage them to browse the first few pages of each and simply choose what catches their eye. Some children might feel embarrassed, pressured, or even unable to vocalize their preferences, so taking the pressure off is crucial. Allowing them to peruse freely and checking in after a few minutes can make all the difference, fostering a positive and independent reading experience.
Conclusion: Opening New Worlds for Young Readers
Dog Man‘s immense success is largely due to its wide array of appeal factors, making it an incredible gateway to other books and a powerful tool for cultivating a love of reading. From its silly humor and thrilling escapades to its memorable characters and captivating visuals, there’s always an element that resonates deeply with young audiences. By understanding which gateway your child wants to go through—be it laughter, excitement, imaginative worlds, compelling characters, or engaging cartoons—you can confidently recommend the next great read.
We hope this comprehensive guide helps you discover the perfect books to read Dog Man enthusiasts will cherish, continuing their journey of literary adventure and imagination. Here at Dog Care Story, we believe that nurturing a love for stories, just like nurturing a pet, enriches lives and opens up endless possibilities for growth and joy. Happy reading!
