Emma and the Blue Genie by Cornelia Funke. Random House, 2014, 90 pages.

Clearly drawn from folklore-Arabian Nights style-- a fun and well written story for elementary aged kids-- Genies, Dogs, Girls, Magic, humor, adventure-- what more could you ask for?
I love this new trend in early chapter and early fiction--  new series for younger kids  by great and well established authors with color pictures.

see also: Mo Willems/Diva and Flea
               Kate DiCamillo/ Mercy Watson
               Shannon Hale/ Princess in Black.

The Magic Finger by Roald Dahl. Puffin Books, 2009. 63 pages

Recommended to me years ago by an excited 3rd grader who loved funny books, I have been recommending it myself, but only read it now. Great book for many kids-- especially as a first chapter book-- slim and sprinkled with illustrations, it is funny and full of themes kids can identify with- family, emotions, underdogs, justice, animals, magic, etc. And it is VERY British-- think EB White, Dick King-Smith, LeGuin's CatWings. An oldie but goodie, i will be recommending with renewed vigor.