As experts in pet care and devoted advocates for fostering a love of reading, we at Dog Care Story understand the unique magic of the “Dog Man” series by Dav Pilkey. Any parent or guardian seeking to ignite a passion for books in their young ones has likely encountered the enthusiastic query: “I love Dog Man! What are some other ‘Dog Man’ books that I can read?” This wildly popular graphic novel series, aimed at children aged 6-10, captivates with its blend of silliness, thrilling adventure, and genuine character development. These core elements—humor, excitement, and emotional depth—ensure that almost every child finds something to connect with. For many children, especially those who might be reluctant readers, Dog Man serves as a perfect gateway, opening the door to a lifelong journey of literary enjoyment.
When faced with the request for more “Dog Man” books that I can read, it’s easy to simply list popular titles. However, a more effective approach is to delve deeper and understand why a child loves Dog Man. Is it the laugh-out-loud jokes, the heart-pounding action, the quirky characters, or the relatable friendships? By identifying the specific element that resonates most with a young reader, we can provide tailored recommendations that truly capture their interest and keep them turning pages. This curated list of “Dog Man” read-alikes is designed with that principle in mind, featuring graphic novels and highly illustrated chapter books that share Dog Man’s spirit of fun, adventure, and heart. It’s an essential resource for anyone looking to extend the joy of reading beyond the beloved Dog Man universe. For those curious about the fascinating world of canine literature for adults, explore more about a dog’s purpose book series.
Funny children's books for Dog Man fans
“It’s So Funny!” – Books That Tickle the Funny Bone
The most frequent answer we hear when asking kids why they love Dog Man is undoubtedly, “It’s funny!” And who can blame them? Dog Man’s humor is often laugh-out-loud worthy, characterized by slapstick antics, occasional toilet humor, and an overall over-the-top approach that kids adore. For young readers who crave that same level of outrageous comedy and natural wit, these books are sure to be a hit and are excellent alternatives to standard “Dog Man” books that I can read.
- The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey: This uproariously silly Australian series follows a group of notorious criminal animals attempting to turn over a new leaf and become “good.” It offers significant crossover appeal for Dog Man fans, with its fast-paced plot and humorous situations. Children consistently report that these books make them laugh out loud. While a highly illustrated chapter book, its dynamic visuals often lead kids to refer to it as a comic book.
- Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey: It almost goes without saying, but for children who enjoy Dog Man, the author’s other iconic series, Captain Underpants, is a natural progression. It serves as an excellent bridge for young readers transitioning from graphic novels to more traditional chapter books, especially given the delightful character crossover between the two series. Pilkey’s signature humor is evident throughout.
- Lunch Lady by Jarrett J. Krosoczka: In this entertaining graphic novel series, a seemingly ordinary elementary school lunch lady leads a secret life as an undercover agent. Reviews frequently describe these books as “laugh-out-loud funny,” a sentiment consistently echoed by children engrossed in the series. The blend of everyday school life with secret spy adventures creates a unique comedic tone.
- The Yeti Files by Kevin Sherry: This cute and funny series of illustrated chapter books introduces readers to a Yeti whose mission is to study other humanoid creatures. They are quick reads, perfect for holding the attention of young readers with imaginative illustrations and whimsical plots. The humor often stems from unexpected encounters and the Yeti’s unique perspective.
- Stick Dog by Tom Watson: An easy-to-read chapter book, Stick Dog is ideal for reluctant readers seeking a simple yet engaging narrative. It’s filled with charming sketches of Stick Dog as he embarks on an epic quest to find the perfect hamburger. The straightforward text and endearing illustrations make it highly accessible and genuinely funny.
- Binky the Space Cat by Ashley Spires: Binky, a house cat convinced he’s a space explorer, sets off on cosmic adventures, constantly worried about alien invasions threatening his human “guardians.” The humor in this series often arises from the exaggerated cat perspective, leading to very silly situations and fun illustrations. It’s particularly well-suited for younger Dog Man fans, typically ages 7-8.
- Hilo by Judd Winick: Often categorized as “Hi-Lo” (high interest, low reading level), the Hilo graphic novel series shares this characteristic with Dog Man. Hilo is a superhero child who mysteriously appears on Earth with no memory of his origins. The series has garnered praise from literary figures including Dav Pilkey himself, making it a credible and exciting choice for young readers.
- CatStronauts by Drew Brockington: In this extremely silly and action-packed series, a team of four elite catstronauts ventures into space in the name of science. The premise that everyone is a cat provides endless opportunities for jokes and humorous situations. This series offers a fantastic blend of sci-fi adventure and lighthearted comedy.
Adventure-themed books for children
“It’s So Exciting!” – Action-Packed Adventures and High Stakes
Readers who are drawn to the thrilling battles, dramatic tension, and high stakes prevalent in Dog Man books will likely gravitate towards action and adventure graphic novels. This is a vast category, but we’ve selected titles that are either immensely popular, share a stylistic resemblance to Dog Man, or both. These recommendations provide the excitement and heroic narratives that kids find so captivating, offering many compelling “Dog Man” books that I can read next.
- Mighty Jack by Ben Hatke: Jack, a seemingly ordinary kid, finds his world turned upside down when he’s pulled into a fantastical realm through a magical portal. He encounters wondrous creatures and becomes deeply entangled in their ongoing conflicts. Like Dog Man, this series features a cartoony art style, incorporates several silly moments, and delivers genuinely exciting plotlines. Also explore the Mighty Jack and Zita the Spacegirl crossover graphic novels for even more adventure.
- Kung Pow Chicken by Cyndi Marko: The title alone often elicits a laugh from children! This highly illustrated early chapter book is perfect for younger, reluctant readers. The plot is incredibly fast-paced, centered around a superhero chicken who saves the day, echoing the heroic, albeit canine, exploits of our favorite Dog Man.
- Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi: One of the most beloved graphic novel series for children, Amulet reads like an epic movie. Emily discovers a mysterious amulet and must quickly learn to master its powers to rescue her family and, ultimately, the world. This fantasy tale is brimming with high-stakes adventure and features impressive character development, immersing readers in a rich, magical universe.
- The Sand Warrior by Mark Siegel, Alexis Siegel, and Xanthe Bouma: Slightly lighter in tone and more cartoony than Amulet, yet with a similar premise, this graphic novel series brings together three unlikely children to save their worlds from an intergalactic war. It’s packed with magic, adventure, thrilling battles, and touches of slapstick comedy, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy the fantastical elements of Dog Man.
- Cleopatra in Space by Mike Maihack: Imagine the legendary Cleopatra from ancient Egypt being transported into the future to combat a tyrannical space emperor! This series is action-packed, witty, and full of unexpected twists. Cleopatra utilizes her formidable combat skills to fulfill an ancient prophecy, providing a fresh and exciting narrative.
- Three Thieves series by Scott Chandler: An adventure-packed graphic novel series that follows three circus performers on various thrilling missions. These books are not only full of gripping mysteries but also possess a strong emotional core, exploring themes of friendship and loyalty. It’s an excellent choice for older Dog Man fans who appreciate intricate adventures.
- Percy Jackson Graphic Novel Series by Rick Riordan: When mythological creatures begin to manifest in Percy Jackson’s everyday life, he finds himself thrust into the role of a hero. However, he inadvertently angers the gods and becomes embroiled in an epic adventure. This graphic novel adaptation is ideal for younger readers looking to dive into the Percy Jackson universe, providing a visually rich introduction to the world of Greek mythology.
- Minecraft Graphic Novel Series by Sfé R. Monster and Sarah Graley: For any child who loves both Minecraft and Dog Man, simply showing them the cover of this book is usually enough to pique their interest. This diverse story follows three friends who connect through playing Minecraft together, making it particularly appealing for older Dog Man readers. There are also numerous official and unofficial chapter books based on Minecraft characters that would attract younger readers.
- DC Superhero Girls by Shay Fontana and Yancey Labat: Featuring an all-star lineup including Batgirl, Harley Quinn, Wonder Woman, Supergirl, and Bumble Bee, this series showcases these awesome superheroes as they battle villains and cultivate strong friendships. These entertaining graphic novels have broad appeal, combining action with positive themes of teamwork and camaraderie.
- Avatar: The Last Airbender by Gene Luen Yang, Bryan Konietzko, Michael Dante DiMartino: While more fun than overtly funny, the Avatar graphic novel series has a strong potential to hook readers and become a true obsession. Based on the popular TV show, this fantasy series includes multiple magical worlds and an abundance of brave heroes, making it a captivating read for those who enjoy epic quests and supernatural abilities.
- The Nameless City by Faith Erin Hicks: Emphasizing adventure and relationships more than humor, The Nameless City serves as a great transitional series for older readers seeking more substantial stories. It’s celebrated for its exceptional world-building and satisfying character arcs, all while maintaining a cartoony art style. If a Dog Man reader is open to a slightly more serious narrative, this series is highly recommended. For readers who enjoy tales of mysterious canines, you might also be interested in curious tale of the dog in the night.
Robots and imaginative creatures for kids
“I Love the Robots!” – Imaginative Characters and Fantasy Elements
It’s common to hear children express their affection for the imaginative characters, particularly the robots, as a secondary reason for loving Dog Man. These readers are often more receptive to fantasy elements and unique beings in their stories, making these selections perfect for expanding their horizons beyond just “Dog Man” books that I can read.
- Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke: Over the years, this graphic novel has been a consistent recommendation for countless young readers. The story follows a girl who is drawn into a portal and must find her way back home from an alien planet. Like Dog Man, it appeals on many levels, but a significant draw is the array of cool robots and alien creatures that populate its pages.
- Jedi Academy by Jeffrey Brown: Easy-to-read and brimming with charming cartoon renditions of iconic Star Wars characters, Jedi Academy is a safe bet if children enjoy imaginative characters and Dog Man. The diary-style format and humorous illustrations make it highly engaging and accessible.
- Plants vs. Zombies by Paul Tobin: Inspired by the popular video game, this graphic novel series is easy to jump into, especially for readers excited by the bizarre plant characters and humorous zombie antagonists. It’s a battle of killer plants against hungry zombies—who will emerge victorious? The action and quirky characters are a huge draw.
- Phoebe and Her Unicorn series by Dana Simpson: If a reader has even a slight interest in unicorns, this series is an easy sell. It’s as cartoony and irreverent as Dog Man, presented in a short, comic strip style that leaves readers feeling good. The delightful friendship between a girl and her sassy unicorn provides endless chuckles.
Also try:
- 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
- Ghost Hog by Joey Weiser
“I Just Like Dog Man and Lil Petey!” – Stories of Character and Relationships
While not as common as “it’s funny” or “it’s exciting,” we occasionally hear answers that point to the characters and their relationships within the Dog Man universe. The Dog Man books impressively weave significant character development into their action-packed pages. Readers who enjoy this aspect of Dog Man, focusing on the bonds and growth of characters like Dog Man and Lil Petey, might also appreciate these thoughtful recommendations for “Dog Man” books that I can read.
- Big Nate by Lincoln Peirce: Big Nate offers both a novel series and a graphic novel series, primarily set in a sixth-grade classroom. The stories revolve around Nate, a rebellious prankster and drummer, and his family and friends. While packed with silly moments, these books also delve into genuine relationship dynamics, making them relatable and entertaining.
- Ivy and Bean by Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall: This series introduces two girls who are complete opposites but become the best of friends, embarking on countless adventures together—oh, and they can do magic! These short chapter books, richly illustrated, are ideal for younger Dog Man fans, offering charming stories about friendship and imagination.
- The Sisters series by Christophe Cazenove and William Maury: Very cartoony and easy to read, this graphic novel series gained popularity in the UK before making its way to North America. It humorously chronicles the often dramatic but always loving relationship between two sisters, capturing the essence of sibling dynamics.
- Smile by Raina Telgemeier: If a reader knows Dog Man and enjoys stories centered on relationships, there’s a high probability they’ve already encountered Sisters, Smile, and Guts. But just in case: this mega-popular graphic novel series tells relatable stories about anxiety, bullying, and family life. Also explore: 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. These books resonate deeply with children navigating similar experiences.
- Baby-sitters Club Graphic Novels by Ann M. Martin and Gale Galligan: With a popular Netflix show and an incredibly successful graphic novel reboot, The Baby-sitters Club is experiencing a significant resurgence. Children who enjoy cartoony relationship stories without overly heavy themes will find these books delightful. Younger readers can also explore The Baby-Sitters Little Sisters series for age-appropriate adventures.
Cartoon-style books for children
“It’s a Cartoon!” – Visually Driven and Highly Illustrated Stories
Readers who are drawn to the vibrant, exaggerated, and highly illustrated “cartoon aspect” of Dog Man are looking for other easy-to-read books that bring stories to life visually. These recommendations offer that same engaging, animated feel, providing numerous “Dog Man” books that I can read for endless entertainment.
- Adventure Time: There’s a wealth of material to choose from here, and it’s as cartoony as it gets. Based on the beloved Cartoon Network series for all ages, these graphic novels genuinely capture the experience of watching the show. Readers don’t need to be existing fans of the show to enjoy the books. They are fun, wonderfully ridiculous, highly imaginative, and convey a positive spirit.
- Garfield: Yes, kids are still enjoying Garfield! While some are interested in the traditional comic-strip compilations, many more are drawn to the Papercutz series, which is adapted from the Cartoon Network show. These offer easy, slapstick comedy starring a recognizable animal cartoon character, providing consistent laughs.
- Snoopy the Beagle of Mars: This comic could be an easy sell because it features a recognizable character, it’s about a dog, and it tells an engaging adventure story. It’s a classic cartoon with a text-to-picture ratio similar to Dog Man, making it accessible and enjoyable for young readers seeking familiar faces in new, exciting settings. For general readers interested in all things canine, check out our list of best books for dog lovers.
- Teen Titans GO! and Tiny Titans: Teen Titans GO! is fantastic for fans of the show, while Tiny Titans is geared toward younger Dog Man enthusiasts. The plots are quick and dynamic, much like a cartoon show, and the vibrant style is consistently gripping, offering superhero action with a comedic twist.
- Bravest Warriors: A wonderfully sweet, Adventure-Time-esque series of graphic novels set in the distant future. This is an excellent choice for older Dog Man readers who appreciate cartoons. It combines adventure with wholesome humor and strong character development, creating a rich and imaginative world.
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!” – General Recommendations for Undecided Readers
Sometimes, the child isn’t available for an “interview,” or they simply can’t articulate why they love Dog Man. In such instances, when trying to find other “Dog Man” books that I can read, a broader approach is necessary. For an emergency recommendation or when preferences are unclear, any of the suggestions above can work. However, the books that are most thematically and appealingly similar to Dog Man, offering a blend of its core strengths, would have to be: The Bad Guys, Captain Underpants, Jedi Academy, Lunch Lady, and Big Nate.
When encountering a child who is hesitant to discuss their preferences, we recommend offering them a stack of these highly appealing books. Encourage them to browse the first few pages of each and only take what truly captures their interest. Some children might feel embarrassed, pressured, or even overwhelmed by the act of choosing or reading, so it’s important to alleviate any pressure. Allowing them to peruse at their own pace and checking in after a few minutes can make all the difference, transforming a potential struggle into an exciting discovery. If you’re interested in understanding the methods behind nurturing a dog’s natural abilities, you might find insight in the dog training secret.
Dog Man’s immense success stems significantly from its wide array of appeal factors, making it an exceptional gateway to other books and fostering a love of reading. The next time a young reader or their parent asks for “Dog Man” books that I can read, remember to consider which “gateway” to the world of books they might be most eager to explore. This thoughtful approach ensures that every child finds their next favorite story, continuing their reading adventure with enthusiasm.
