book reviews for grade 3

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The 23 Best Books for 3rd Graders

The world of third grade is a fascinating one. It’s a phase where readers are blossoming, ready to delve deeper into literature’s treasures. Their appetites for compelling narratives are growing, and they’re on the brink of exploring more intricate plots and character dynamics. However, any educator, parent, or guardian knows the challenge: finding the right books for 3rd graders that hit the sweet spot between engaging and age-appropriate.

Have you ever found yourself overwhelmed, combing through the endless recommendations, trying to pinpoint the best chapter books for 3rd graders? The hunt can seem daunting. Choose a book too rudimentary, and they’re uninterested; select something overly intricate, which might overshadow their budding reading confidence.

But here’s the good news: your quest just became more navigable. After countless hours in library aisles, coupled with the invaluable feedback of young literature enthusiasts, I’ve created this curated guide. This list isn’t just a random assortment; it’s a carefully chosen collection of top-notch chapter books for 3rd graders, complemented by captivating graphic novels tailored for the vibrant and curious minds of 8- and 9-year-olds.

So, without further ado, let’s delve into this handpicked selection of books for 3rd graders. These tales are more than just stories; they’re gateways to worlds of wonder, challenges, and growth.

My Favorite Novels & Chapter Books for 3rd Graders

Whether you are a first-time teacher preparing your classroom library or trying to find a great book for your child, these 23 novels are amazing for your third-grade students. To help you determine which books best fit your class, I shared a short summary of the plot. I also shared links to the novel study to help save you prep time. I know your third graders will love these great stories! 

Realistic Fiction for Third Graders

1. how to eat fried worms by thomas rockwell .

This popular book tells the story of a boy who refuses to lose a bet. How to Eat Fried Worms is a novel sure to capture the attention of those reluctant readers in your class, especially the boys. However, when he gets stuck trying to eat more than a dozen worms, he realizes there has to be a better way! This leads him to learn various cooking methods to make his task a little less disgusting…maybe.

As a teacher, I love that this story offers so many opportunities to discuss important reading comprehension skills, including cause and effect, problem and solution, and character change across time.

Learn more about the novel study: How to Eat Fried Worms Novel Study

2. The Best School Year Ever by Barbara Robinson

Looking for funny books for your learner to engage with? Look no further!

The Best School Year Ever is the second in the series about the Herdman family, a group that regularly finds trouble no matter where they go. The narrator is a classmate of one of the Herdman children and shares all the rumors and legends surrounding the family.

Throughout the school year, anything that goes wrong is blamed on one Herdman kid or another, but when the narrator is asked to write a compliment about each kid in class, it is discovered that maybe the Herdmans aren’t so bad after all.

A great book for discussing finding the good in others, this story has great humor and is such a fun read.

3. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary

There is so much great realistic fiction for third graders.  Ramona Quimby, Age 8 is the perfect example of a high-quality, engaging novel that allows students to connect with characters.

The story is focused around a girl named Ramona, who faces many of the same challenges with parents and peers your students might face. This book covers everything from bullying and the pressure to balancing the responsibilities of home life.

The story is great for making text-to-self connections and comparing characters. I highly recommend you add it to your 3rd grade reading list.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Ramona Quimby, Age 8 Novel Study

4. Third Grade Angels by Jerry Spinelli

Jerry Spinelli is an amazing author, and this book is perfect for your third-grade students. A prequel to the popular story Fourth Grade Rats , this is the story of George’s third-grade year. Nicknamed Suds, George is desperate to be the first to win his teacher’s coveted behavior award.

George struggles with what it means to have good behavior and whether he has to behave ALL the time to earn the award. George’s character and challenges are easily relatable to students.

A great fall read-aloud book for third grade, this story is also perfect for book clubs or as an independent reading opportunity later in the school year.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Third Grade Angels Novel Study

5. Fudge-a-mania by Judy Blume

After discovering his parents’ plan to have their family spend summer vacation with his enemy, Sheila, Peter Hatcher is sure summer is ruined. His little brother, however, is elated.

Things take a turn for the better for Peter when his parents offer to let him bring his best friend with him, but it isn’t long before he’s spending more time with Shiela than him.

While the storyline is pretty tame, much like life most of the time, the relatable characters and situations are perfect for 3rd-grade readers. The students love predicting what will happen after discovering Sheila and Peter have become “stepcousins” by the end of the story.

Another fabulous novel by Judy Blume is the third book in the  Fudge series. While all the books in the series are great, I really love this one. It is a great way to introduce the topic of protagonist vs. antagonist and how this isn’t always the bad guy vs. the good guy.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Fudge-a-mania Novel Study

Fantasy Books for 3rd Graders

6. snot stew by bill wallace.

If you think this story will be about snot…guess again. Told from a cat’s first-person point of view, this story is a unique and engaging view of the world from a non-human perspective.

Snot Stew  is the tale of two stray kittens adopted into a family and how they acclimate to this new environment without their momma. As they become accustomed to their new home, their relationship changes dramatically until an emergency brings them back together.

Great for inferring, students love using text clues to figure out what common household objects the feline narrator describes. The story is also a great introduction to point of view and how it impacts the reader’s understanding of the text.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Snot Stew Novel Study

7. My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Styles Gannett

My Father’s Dragon  is a fantasy novel about a young boy who runs away to rescue a baby dragon. With vibrant details and some crazy adventures, this book captures the imagination of young readers and takes them along on Elmer’s journey.

Danger, excitement, and heroic efforts are all important components of this story, which is presented as a story told to the narrator by his father many years ago. Using only everyday objects from his pack, Elmer single-handedly disarms the many dangerous animals of Wild Island on his quest.

The book has beautiful illustrations, which help readers visualize the events of the story, and your students will love reading about Elmer’s brilliant ways of outsmarting the animals throughout. Perfect for teaching character traits and sequencing, this story is a gem that will stick with your readers for years.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: My Father’s Dragon  Novel Study

8. The Littles by John Peterson

Imagine tiny people were living in your house without you even knowing it. They used your things, borrowed your scraps, and made themselves right at home despite the numerous dangers the typical house presents when you’re tiny. That is the plot of  The Littles .

This fantasy novel is great for young readers because it is engaging and has a clear, well-developed plot. There are many opportunities to discuss problems and solutions as the Littles work to navigate the world at their size. Plus, it is a great novel for working through other critical comprehension skills.

Considered by many to be a must-read classic, I’ve included it on my list because it is the first of a whole series of books about this miniature family.

9. Flora & Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo

My list wouldn’t be complete without a graphic novel, and Flora & Ulysses  is the perfect graphic novel for your third graders.

Written by award-winning author Kate DiCamillo, this is the story of the many zany adventures of a superhero squirrel and the girl who saved him.

Students love this silly adventure story, and it is a great introduction to Kate DiCamillo if students haven’t read her work previously.

While ideal for reluctant readers due to the many detailed illustrations, even your advanced readers will enjoy this light, fun-to-read book.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Flora & Ulysses  Novel Study

10. The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling

Imagine everything you touched turned to chocolate…

Sounds pretty awesome, right? That’s what John Midas thought, too, until things started to go horribly wrong.

This delightful fantasy novel is a twist on the traditional story of the Midas touch. Even reluctant readers can’t help but be pulled into the story as they connect with John and his transition from enjoyment to frustration with his newfound talent.

A great book for cause and effect and prediction,  The Chocolate Touch  is a well-loved novel for a reason. I guarantee your kids will beg to get back to reading when you use this book in your novel study or book club.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: The Chocolate Touch  Novel Study

11. Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar

If your students are looking for a funny book to read, consider Louis Sachar’s Sideways Stories from Wayside School.

The book is a collection of short stories that all take place in the same wacky school where things never seem to go right. From a teacher who turns students into apples to a boy who gets sent home early for saving the day and being a good friend, your students will be laughing at the silly situations the characters find themselves in.

Each story can be read as a stand-alone or part of the larger collection. This book is perfect for a classroom read-aloud or for independent reading. This was always the first story I read to my own class.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Sideways Stories from Wayside School Novel Study

12. Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark by Mary Pope Osborne

The  Magic Tree House  series is one of my favorites. It has so many great books for 3rd graders to enjoy and learn from. We actually use it for a bedtime read-aloud with my 6-year old. However, it is a great series for third-grade independent readers, too.

The stories revolve around a sister and brother, Jack and Annie, and their travels in a magic tree house. In this first book, they travel back to the time of the dinosaurs on a mysterious quest. In addition to the great story, readers also learn lots of facts about dinosaurs through Jack’s research during their travels.

Great for teaching facts and opinions and other great reading skills, this book is a gateway to a series of great reading for your students.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Dinosaurs Before Dark  Novel Study

13. The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks

What kid hasn’t dreamed about their toys coming to life? The fact that this fantasy is so relatable is part of what makes this one of the great books for 3rd graders!

When Omri receives a cupboard for his birthday, he decides it is the perfect place to lock his plastic Indian toy. The next thing he knows, his plastic toy is a walking, talking man. After discovering his name is Little Bear, Omri works to help him set up a place to live and food.

Of course, no story is complete without a little drama…and Omri’s comes in the form of a cowboy named Boone. While the two don’t get along initially, the men soon find commonalities.

Ultimately, Omri is surprised when the magic cupboard’s key disappears. Will the cowboy and Indian ever be able to go back home?

This is one of my favorite books for 3rd graders when teaching comparing and contrasting or visualizing.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Indian in the Cupboard  Novel Study

14. Stuart Little by E.B. White

Many students have seen the movies that accompany this series, making the book the perfect transition to help students who struggle with comprehension.

Stuart is a mouse born into a human family. (Don’t ask me how that happened…) His family lives in New York City, and the story chronicles his adventures around Manhattan and all the dangers of being small in a big, big world.

Their familiarity with the plotline makes digging deep into important reading strategies easier, and comparing the book and movie helps students build real-world connections.

Vocabulary and context clues are also a great focus for this fabulous classic.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Stuart Little  Novel Study

Historical Fiction Books for Third Graders

15. stone fox by john reynolds gardiner.

I would be remiss if I didn’t start with a little disclaimer for this one. Keep tissues close by near the end. You will cry…probably hard. It is truly one of the saddest third-grade books on this list. However, this classic book remains one of my favorite novels for third graders.

Stone Fox is a beautifully written story that enthralls readers in Little Willy’s attempts to save his grandfather’s farm along with some help from his faithful pup, Searchlight. Little Willy is such a likable character, and your students will cheer him on as he attempts the impossible.

This novel is a literary gem, making a fantastic winter book study or read-aloud. I can read it repeatedly with students and (despite knowing the end) still be brought to tears each time by Gardiner’s compelling story.

This book is perfect for inclusion in a cross-curricular unit about the Iditarod in March lesson plans , you can make many great connections to math and social studies. Alternatively, you might use this book in conjunction with the true story of Balto.

Learn more about some engaging STEM challenges you can pair with this novel.

16. Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner

This book was a favorite of mine as a child, and now I love sharing it with my students. This classic story of orphans on the run will capture the reader’s attention.

Students will love reading about the adventures of Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny as they create a home for themselves in an old boxcar they discover in the woods. Trying hard to avoid being discovered by their grandfather (whom they’ve not met), the kids cook, clean, and work to earn money all on their own.

The book has a surprise ending, and as the first book in the series, it is a great opportunity to get your struggling or reluctant readers hooked on an easy-to-read series that will expose them to lots of great vocabulary. This book is truly a must-have in every third-grade classroom library.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: The Boxcar Children  Novel Study

17. Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

This story was written by Laura Ingalls Wilder and is the semi-true adventure of her family’s move to Wisconsin when she was a young girl. Throughout the story, Laura describes her work to help her Ma and Pa and how the family always finds time to play together.

From butchering their meat to gathering wood for the fire, the Ingalls must do everything they need to survive. As the book works through each season, the family’s work changes. Planting, making butter, and more.

Students are often fascinated by life long before there were grocery stores everywhere. Great for comparing the past and present, a commonly studied social studies unit, this story details life during the 1800s. This is the first of four books in the Little House series.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Little House in the Big Woods Novel Study

More books for 3rd graders

18. geronimo stilton #1: lost treasure of the emerald eye.

Unlike many other books on this list, the Geronimo Stilton series is a bit less text-heavy. However, don’t let that deter you from giving them a try! These books are packed with adventure, humor, and interesting facts.

In the first book, Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye, readers follow Geronimo as he tries to solve the mystery of a missing treasure. Full of twists and turns, this book is perfect for reluctant readers or those looking for a fast-paced read with lots of visuals.

This series is full of adventure stories, so if your students enjoy this book, be sure to check out the rest of the chapter book series!

19. Freckle Juice by Judy Blume

This is the first of a couple of Judy Blume books you’ll find on this list. She’s got some great choices that are perfect for third-grade readers.

Freckle Juice  is a hilarious realistic fiction novel about a boy, Andrew, who wants to have freckles like his classmate. Andrew can think of many reasons why having freckles would make his life easier. For example, his mom would never even know if his neck was dirty! When Andrew asks Nicky where his freckles came from, a classmate overhears and offers a special freckle juice recipe…at just 50 cents.

Of course, Andrew buys it and makes a batch of freckle juice for himself. I won’t give away the whole story, but suffice it to say, things get extra hilarious from then on.

Your students will love this totally relatable novel, and you’ll love the numerous opportunities to teach skills like theme and problem & solution. This makes it one of the great books for 3rd graders to enjoy during book clubs or lit circles.

20. Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle by Betty MacDonald

The book is a collection of short stories about the title character, an eccentric woman who knows how to deal with children’s bad habits. From kids who won’t take baths to those who are always losing their temper, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle has a cure for everything.

Your students will love hearing about the wild antics that take place in each story, and you can use the book as a springboard for discussing character traits, problem-solving, and more.

If you’re looking for a feel-good read, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle is a good choice!

21. Bunnicula by Deborah & James Howe

Told from the perspective of the family dog, Harold,  Bunnicula  is the story of what happened after the family found a baby rabbit at the movie theater during a screening of Dracula.

When Chester (the family’s cat) notices something strange about the new addition, he decides the rabbit must be a vampire and tries to alert the Monroe family.

Another really funny book, this novel is great for Halloween or any time. The narrator’s engaging storyline and unique perspective make it a perfect book for students who are into vampires and other supernatural happenings.

The text offers a number of great opportunities to infer and draw conclusions, which is a challenging skill for many 3rd graders.

Learn more about this and other great spooky stories here.

22. Esio Trot by Roald Dahl

A love story with a twist, this is the story of Mr. Hoppy and his plans to win the adoration of Ms. Silver via her beloved tortoise (Alfie). After telling Mr. Hoppy she wished she knew how to help Alfie grow larger, he concocts a wacky plan to win her over. Your students will love discussing this hare-brained plot and predicting whether it will work. (Spoiler: It does!)

With vivid description and silliness that only Dahl can bring to a children’s novel, this story is overall an easy read and fan favorite among books for 3rd graders. There are many great opportunities to discuss character traits and practice visualization, inferring, and more.

While the text has some made-up words (as do nearly all Dahl’s books), the plotline draws readers in and encourages them to overcome these challenges because the story is just that good.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Esio Trot Novel Study

23. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

Your animal-loving students with The Wild Robot!

After a shipwreck, Roz the robot washes ashore on an uninhabited island. At first, she is only concerned with her survival, but as time passes, she starts to feel lonely. When a family of creatures finds her, Roz begins to learn about companionship with your animal-loving students with The Wild Robot!

A former Global Read Aloud book, The Wild Robot is a good book to discuss character traits, emotions, and more with your third-grade class.

Don’t forget to check out the corresponding lesson plans and materials for the book!

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: The Wild Robot Novel Study

Find the perfect novel for your third graders to enjoy!

While it can be challenging to find quality novels with engaging plots that support deep conversation and critical thinking about text that will appeal to a broad range of readers, my hope is that this list will help guide you in the right direction. All twenty books on this comprehensive list are quality literature that your 3rd graders will love, whether you decide to use them as a read-aloud or incorporate them as you plan your next novel unit.

I hope this list has sparked some ideas for adding books to your classroom library and your next novel unit. While you’re here, grab my free novel study planning roadmap to get step-by-step support to plan a high-quality literature unit for your third-grade students, whether you’re in the classroom or homeschooling.

Check out my Book Lists for Other Grades Below

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70 Must-Read Books for 3rd Graders

Aimee Miles

Aimee Miles is a newly-minted librarian, mother to two small children, and former grand champion goat showman. She has collected two citizenships, three different driver’s licenses, and approximately 300 dearly loved books. Sadly, she currently has zero goats. You can see her quiet Twitter at Icanread4Miles and her blog on children's books at https://bringthemupbookish.wordpress.com

View All posts by Aimee Miles

Third grade in particular can offer a real challenge when figuring out a bookish gift. The two main things to keep in mind when picking books for 3rd graders are 1) the wide range of reading capabilities for 3rd graders, 2) that reading needs to be fun for kids who are developing their relationship with reading.

Third graders reading abilities can vary widely. In 3rd grade, 7- and 8-year-olds might read a couple of grade levels in either direction, meaning kids could be reading anywhere from what’s considered average for a 1st grader to what’s average for a 5th grader. And that’s fine. Reading takes practice, so helping kids find books that will give them confidence and help them practice is key.

One of the biggest things for kids at this age is getting books they’ll enjoy reading. Reading skills are developed through reading practice, but if reading isn’t fun, it’s so hard to practice. When picking out a book for your 3rd grader, picking out something fun is just as important as picking out something that is good quality. We want to lay down a foundation of good experiences with books!

Graphic Novels For 3rd Graders

Graphic novels are ideal for building up fun reading experiences for kids. The art provides context for words and draws in readers who may find a page full of words intimidating. Though they are ideal for any reader who likes good stories!

Cucumber Quest by Gigi D.G.

Join Cucumber bunny as he’s forced onto a quest to save the Dreamside kingdoms from the Nightmare Knight, even though all he wants to do is leave the adventuring to his sword-wielding sister Almond and go to magic school.

The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier

The zombie apocalypse has happened and as usual the adults are useless, so it’s up to a group of kids to rescue their friend June. For anyone who like monsters, emotional intelligence, and gross-out humor!

Princess Princess Ever After by Katie O’Neill

Princess Amira, astride a unicorn and sporting a mohawk and military jacket, helps Princess Sadie decide to leave behind her tower and her self-doubts about her big body as they go off on adventures, encountering flustered princes, difficult older sisters, and, finally, a happily ever after.

The Dragonet Prophecy by Tui T. Sutherland

Adapted from the popular Wings of Fire fantasy series, the five dragonets of The Dragonet Prophecy have been hidden underground for their whole lives and emerge to find their world overrun with violence and treachery. Plug your dragon-lover in here.

Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi

Ever popular with kids who have a taste for things that are slightly dark and creepy, this graphic novel series follows siblings Emily and Navin as they set out to rescue their mom from a world below the ground filled with freaky monsters and strange allies.

Phoebe and Her Unicorn by Dana Simpson

If you are looking for a book with Calvin and Hobbs vibes, look no further! Whimsical Phoebe and her snarky unicorn bff, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils make everyday experiences charming and silly in a clean and colorful art-style.

Princeless: Save Yourself by Jeremy Whitley

Similar to Princess Princess Ever After , but with a longer story arc and deeper exploration of the characters. Princess Adrienne gets tired of being in her tower so she runs off with the dragon guarding her to rescue her sisters locked away in their own towers. A great example of how many ways one idea can be explored!

Real Friends by Shannon Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Navigating friendships is hard and no one captures it quite like Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham. Hale tells the story of her own struggles to find a healthy friendship throughout elementary school, taking us from her first day of Kindergarten through to Sixth Grade. Pham’s art is beautiful as ever and parents may want a hankie while reading.

Zita, Space Girl by Ben Hatke

Your graphic novel reader will be charmed by self-assured Zita, who accidentally transports herself and her diffident best friend Joseph to a planet in turmoil.

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier

Cat and her sister Maya move with their family to Northern California because of Maya’s poor health. Everything gets more interesting when they find out there are ghosts in their new town, and Cat finds that the ghosts can be more than just outside of you. Wildly popular Telgemeier is always a hit with kids.

Avatar, The Last Airbender: Graphic Novel by Gene Luen Yang

Nickelodeon’s fantastic cartoon series serves as the jumping off point for these comic which continue the adventures of Aang and Co. after the end of the series. Kids who love Aang and Korra will gobble these books up!

Mighty Jack by Ben Hatke

Master storyteller Hatke gives a twist to Jack and the Beanstalk. This Jack, his sister Maddy, and his friend Lilly grow a magical garden, battling to keep it under control, all while his mom works two jobs.

Secret Coders by Gene Luen Yang

Stately Academy is rife with mysteries and coding puzzles with Hopper and Eni finding sidewalk cleaning robots and bully-neutralizing inventions. Readers will learn the basics of coding through thoughtful illustrations and bright art.

Starting Chapter Books For 3rd Graders

Ling and ting: not exactly the same by grace lin.

Ling and Ting are twin sisters, but they are not exactly the same. Quick stories told in a few pages, Ling and Ting enjoy gentle silliness, each story ending with a little twist.

Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa by Erica Silverman

Kate and her talking horse Cocoa look out for each other in this sweet early chapter book paired with beautiful watercolor art.

Frog and Toad / Owl at Home / Grasshopper on the Road by Arnold Lobel

Arnold Lobel knows how to create the perfect little story for young readers. They are sweet and silly and affirming, with a twist that delights adults as well as children. Easy to read and rewarding to finish.

The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale

What do you get when you combine a princess and a superhero? The Princess in Black, a superhero working hard to save the goats from the monsters who want to eat them AND to keep her alter-ego, Princess Marigold, meeting all the social conventions a princess is expected to meet!

Mercy Watson by Kate DiCamillo

Mercy Watson is a pig who lives with her doting owners, Mr. and Mrs. Watson. She loves hot buttered toast and finds herself in silly situations. Prep your own hot buttered toast before reading!

Mermaid Tales by Debbie Dadey

Mermaid best friends Shelly, Echo, Kiki, and Pearl take the familiar friendship stories of elementary school readers undersea. The friends learn social skills like inclusion and how to get along with friends and siblings, which is just want young elementary kids love to read about. Also everyone is a mermaid, so the fish puns will catch you!

Saving the Team: The Kicks by Alex Morgan

Written by an Olympic soccer player with a gold medal, The Kicks series starts off with ten-year-old Devin moving to Kentville, California, and trying to settle into her new soccer team—who really need some direction!

Geronimo Stilton and Thea Stilton

Geronimo is a mouse journalist who wants a quiet life, but himself on wild adventures in far off lands, sometimes accompanied by his sister, Thea, a detective who has her own spinoff series. This wildly popular series was translated from Italian and offers a multitude of books for kids who get obsessed with the series.

Myth-o-mania by Kate McMullan

Spin traditional Greek myths on their heads! Zeus made it all up! It’s all lies! Hades sets things straight while introducing kids to fractured versions of Ancient Greek mythology.

A-Z Mysteries by Ron Roy

Considered some of the best early chapter books for kids reading on their own, the A–Z Mysteries start off with three kid-detectives solving a case for every letter of the alphabet. Firmly in the cozy mystery sphere, rather than scary mysteries, early chapter book readers love this series.

Lola Levine Is Not Mean by Monica Brown

Lola Levine is a soccer-obsessed, word-loving second-grader who has a loving family, a believably affectionate/antagonist relationship with her younger brother, and not as many friends as she’d like. Lola embraces both sides of her Peruvian/white Jewish family and grows and changes in her own lovable way!

My Weird School by Dan Gutman

Hilarity and wordplay are the themes running through A.J.’s account of his time at his school, Ella Mentry School, where the staff are wacky and the kids have got things figured out.

The Chicken Squad by Doreen Cronin

J.J. is a retired search-and-rescue dog who now spends his days looking after a group of four baby chicks who get themselves into all sorts of trouble, despite his best efforts. Farmyard hilarity!

Eerie Elementary / The Dragon Masters / Owl Diaries

Scholastic Branches is a collection of books targeted at kids moving between leveled readers and longer chapter books. With illustrations on most pages and six-page chapter, new readers can build up their skills following the stories of a boy who finds that his school is actually a building with malicious intent, a good-natured boy who gets chosen to befriend a dragon, and the diary of an owl girl who has a life very similar to most elementary school kids.

Anna Hibiscus by Atinuke

Anna Hibiscus lives in amazing Africa with her extended family and her white Canadian mother. Anna longs to see snow, while having quiet adventures with her family.

No. 1 Car Spotter by Atinuke

Switching from Anna Hibiscus’s privileged world to Oluwalese (or No. 1) who lives in a small village in Nigeria, Atinuke shows another face of childhood. No. 1’s story has the same gentle humor and interconnected storytelling as Anna Hibiscus, as he helps out his family and engages in his favorite pastime, spotting cars that drive by.

Zoey and Sassafras by Asia Citro

Zoey and her cat Sassafras discover they can see the magical creatures who come to their barn for help. Zoey uses her “Thinking Goggles” and her adherence to scientific method to solve the magical mysteries of what is making the plants and animals sick.

Ruby Lu: Brave and True by Lenore Look

Bubbly Ruby Lu loves her life, which she lives at full volume. She gets herself into a few scrapes along the way that Ramona Quimby fans will enjoy, such as introducing herself as a frog when she starts Chinese school, and when her baby brother learns to talk and spills her best magic show secret.

Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Thing s by Lenore Look

Second grader Alvin is upfront about his anxiety, which leaves him in situations that, while not scary, the book is matter-of-fact about his difficulties. Alvin has a loving family who help him as he suffers through moments of anxiety, and Alvin himself has a strong, endearing character voice. The book doesn’t give him any magical solutions, but he does learn to deal with some of his worries.

The Great Cake Mystery: Precious Ramotswe’s First Case by Alexander McCall Smith

Spinning off of his adult series about Botswana’s No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency, Smith takes us back to Precious’s childhood with her father when she first develops a taste for solving-mysteries.

EllRay Jakes is Not A Chicken by Sally Warner

Third grader EllRay finds himself on the receiving end of bullying and doesn’t quite know what to do about it. A relevant topic for kids, this book offers solutions without being saccharine about them.

Bookmarks Are People Too by Henry Winkler

While it’s not stated in the first book in the series, our hero Hank deals with learning disabilities, including dyslexia. Regardless, he does his best to get along in second grade and finds his own way to make his mark. The typeface is specifically designed to help readers with dyslexia, one way this book puts its money where its mouth is.

Sugar Plum Ballerinas: Plum Fantastic by Whoopie Goldberg, Deborah Underwood

Friendship and ballerinas take the lead in this book about Alexandrea, who moves to a new ballet school in Harlem and somehow lands the leading part in the recital, even though she’s not the best dancer.

The Kingdom of Wrenly: The Lost Stone by Jordan Quinn

Gentle fantasy adventures ensue as Prince Lucas and his friend Clara, the seamstress’s daughter, strike up a friendship and help the kingdom with any troubles that arise.

Calvin Coconut: Trouble Magnet by Graham Salisbury

At home in Oahu, Calvin scares up delightful mischief, especially when a live-in nanny comes to stay and takes over his room.

Nikki and Deja by Karen English

Nikki and Deja are best friends, until a new girl on their street who is also in their class changes their dynamic, which puts their friendship to the test.

Longer Chapterbooks For 3rd Graders

Crenshaw by katherine applegate.

Ten-year-old Jackson can see another period of homelessness and living in the van coming up for his family. He can also see Crenshaw, a giant talking cat he hasn’t seen in several years…since the last time his family was homeless. Crenshaw helps Jackson deal with the difficult time in his life, and humanizing homelessness.

One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Based on a real gorilla, Ivan, who lived at a mall in Tacoma, Washington, this Newbery Award–winning book imagines being inside Ivan’s head and explores the complex humanity of animals.

In the Footsteps of Crazy Horse by Joseph Marshall III

Marshall explores the ideas of what it means to be Indian, as well as what it means to be a hero, through the stories Grandpa Nyles tells Jimmy on their road trip following Crazy Horse’s life story.

Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu

Re-imagine “The Snow Queen” with Hazel, who accidentally hits her friend Jack in the eye with a snowball, and then he is taken away by the Snow Queen. Hazel has to journey through the snowy woods to rescue her friend, who may not even want her rescue.

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

A robot, Roz, washes up on deserted island and discovers the wonders of nature as she figures out how to live and to survive.

Henry Huggins / Ramona the Pest / Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary

Beverly Cleary is much-beloved classic children’s book author (and librarian!) for a reason. Her books dig into how being a kid can lead to misunderstanding and mishap, into the humor of the mundanity of being a kid, and how mundanity is still great.

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster

Another children’s classic stuffed with puns and word play. Bored Milo finds himself in a fantastical world on the search for the missing princesses of Rhyme and Reason, balancing the two fighting brothers of Dictionopolis and Digitopolis, and getting into all sorts of interesting scrapes with his new watchdog friend, Tock.

Ivy and Bean by Annie Barrows

Bean is a lively girl with nerves to match; Ivy is a dreamy sort of girl with plenty of know-how about other worlds. Of course they are the best of friends, with Ivy coming up with creative activities and Bean having the gumption to pull them off.

Forest of Wonders by Linda Sue Park

Magical apothecary Raffa finds that boundaries might be in place for a reason and that pushing passed them might unfold unforeseen tragedies.

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

Described by the author in her TED Talk as a sort of Chinese Wizard of Oz, our heroine Minli sets out to find fortune for her struggling family and community, encountering a dragon, a magic goldfish, a king, and a green tiger. Lin is a genius and everyone should read this book.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

A magical story about families and love, the way that sorrow can be amplified when ignored, and how power can be corrupted by the wielder. This book is engrossing and thoroughly magical!

Spirit Week: The Magnificent Mya Tibbs  by Crystal Allen

Mya thinks that she’s going to be partnered with her best friend for Spirit Week, but instead gets Mean Connie for her partner. Mya learns the true depths of people, even when you think you already know them, and Allen offers up friendships of all kinds for readers to learn the many ways to be a good friend.

Dara Palmer’s Major Drama by Emma Shevah

Dara finds herself prevented from playing the perfect part in the school play…because she was adopted from Cambodia as a baby, so doesn’t apparently look the part. Struggling with her identity and place in her family and community, Dara explores her history and her present to figure out her future.

One Crazy Summer by Rita Garcia Williams

Delphine and her two younger sisters go to spend the summer with their distant mother in Oakland, California. Since it’s the summer of 196-, the girls meet the Black Panthers and untangle some family secrets.

Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

Artemis Fowl is a 12-year-old Irish master criminal looking for his parents when he gets caught up with the fairies who live underground in a bunker. With humor designed to appeal to kids, and a hero powered by his incredible brain for future Sherlock fans, this series deserves the love it gets.

Stella By Starlight by Sharon M. Draper

A white-supremacist attack brings turmoil to Stella’s North Carolina community during the Depression. Draper allows readers to experience the Jim Crow South through a safe and confident narrator.

Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai

This novel in verse follows Kim Ha as her family flees Vietnam in 1975 for Alabama, where there aren’t many other refugees or Vietnamese people. Poignant, but Lai also allows readers to laugh with Kim as she learns a new culture and language.

The Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste

Infused with Haitian folklore, Corinne’s story finds her followed by the ghost of her aunt, who wants to take over the whole island. Baptiste explores themes of colonization and of family with deliciously spooky ghosts!

It Ain’t So Awful Falafel by Firoozeh Dumas

Set in 1970s America, against the backdrop of the Iranian Revolution, Cindy works to fit in to her new school in California at the same time that her parents worry over friends and family left in Iran during the revolution.

The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy

Mildred Hubble is the worst witch at Miss Cackle’s Academy. Her spells go wrong and Ms. Hardbroom is always unhappy with her, but Mildred has a solid group of friends to fall back on. Published well before Harry Potter, Mildred is an endearing, if clumsy, heroine that you can’t help but root for.

Ghost by Jason Reynolds

The first in Reynold’s Track quartet, Ghost’s difficulties at home translate to difficulties at school until he finds his way to the track team. Now Ghost just has to figure out how to be on the team.

As Brave As You Are by Jason Reynolds

City kid Genie spends a slow summer at his grandparents’ house in the country, forging a relationship with them and dealing with his anxiety through his notebook of questions.

Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey

Rife with jokes, two friends hypnotize their principal into believing he’s Captain Underpants, out to save the world from bad guys with Wedgie Power. While frequently on lists of banned books, Captain Underpants never fails to thrill kids with toilet humor. (Comedy is all about taboos.)

Melissa by Alex Gino

In this sweet story, Melissa really wants to play Charlotte in her 4th grade class’s upcoming performance of Charlotte’s Web . Unfortunately, her teacher, classmates, and family all think that Melissa is a boy.

Star-Crossed by Barbara Dee

Maddie must overcome her nerves as she fills in for Romeo in the class play, because her crush is playing Juliet opposite her.

Harriet the Invincible by Ursula Vernon

If you’ve never read a book with a hamster princess, then meet Harriet. She’s unrestrained and feminist in her princessing, so she take her evil fairy’s curse as a chance to do good deeds before returning home to foil her own curse.

Dragonbreath by Ursula Vernon

Exuberant Danny Dragonbreath (sans fire breathing) drags his reticent iguana friend Wendell off to meet sea serpents for a class assignment for their reptile and amphibian school.

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume

Peter lives on the edge of 1970s Central Park with his parents and his two year old brother Fudge. Fudge is an adorable terror and for Peter, 4th grade is hard enough without a little brother.

President of the Whole Fifth Grade by Sherri Winston

Political ethics start young when Brianna wants to be president of her 5th grade class, despite knowing a secret that could devastate her opponent.

Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi

Aru accidentally wakes up the Destroyer and has to join up with her spirit sister, Mini, to travel through spheres of Hindu mythology in order to save the world.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

Potter-mad parents can want to introduce their kids to Harry, Ron, and Hermione asap, but kids’ readiness for the books might not manifest until close to 9 or 10. Upper elementary is a pretty good time for kids to start the books, especially as the books get darker as Harry gets older.

If you’re looking for more recommended books for 3rd graders and other elementary school kids check here  and here and here and here ! What recommendations do you have for appropriate books for 3rd graders?

Thank you to Ms. Kathleen at John Stanford International Elementary School for her input!

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Best Books for 3rd Graders

Enhance your 3rd grader's reading journey with these top-ranked books that blend educational value with enjoyment, as celebrated by various children's literature experts and reviewers..

The 100 Best Books for 3rd Graders Ultimate Guide

If you are looking for an all-inclusive list of the best books for 3rd graders, then you have found it!!

With over 100 individual book titles plus ten huge collections of books, even your most hesitant reader will find something enticing!

I’ve tried to group this book list in the most logical way starting with the best chapter books divided into collections (those with over 20 books), book series, graphic novels, and by author.

So, let’s take a look at the best books for 3rd graders that your students will love!

The Best Chapter Book Collections

The boxcar children.

The Boxcar Children series is a cherished collection of over 150 children’s mystery novels written by the American author Gertrude Chandler Warner. 

The series, which began in 1924, has captivated young readers for generations. 

The Boxcar Children series revolves around the adventures of four orphaned siblings: Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny Alden. 

After the children’s parents die, they initially live with their grandfather, who is a strict and distant figure. 

However, they run away to avoid being separated and find shelter in an abandoned boxcar in the woods. 

They make this boxcar their home, and the series follows their independent and resourceful lives as they solve mysteries and go on various adventures in each book.

This series has been praised for its wholesome storytelling and the positive messages it conveys to young readers and therefore, this set is a good choice to add to your classroom library of books for 3rd graders. 

Magic Tree House

The Magic Tree House series is a beloved collection of over 150 children’s books written by American author Mary Pope Osborne. 

The series began in 1992 and has become a beloved staple of children’s literature. 

The stories follow the adventures of siblings Jack and Annie, who discover a mysterious treehouse filled with books in the woods near their home.

In each book, Jack and Annie are given a mission by Morgan Le Fay, the magical librarian of Camelot, who is also the owner of the treehouse.

These missions often involve traveling to various historical periods and far-off places to solve a problem, find an object, or rescue someone.

Jack, who is the older sibling, is more cautious and bookish. He often serves as the voice of reason during their adventures.

Annie, on the other hand, is more adventurous and impulsive.

She is usually the one to suggest their missions and is quick to embrace the magic of the treehouse.

The series combines elements of fantasy and adventure while introducing young readers to various historical events, cultures, and time periods.

Children of all ages will enjoy these books, but this will be a very popular book series with your third graders because of how these books make history so engaging and fun.

The Babysitters Club

The Baby-Sitters Club (BSC) is a group of four friends who decide to start a babysitting business in the fictional town of Stoneybrook, Connecticut. 

Kristy Thomas is the founder of the BSC, and is known for her leadership skills and no-nonsense attitude.

Claudia Kishi is an artistic and creative member known for her unique fashion sense.

Mary Anne Spier is the shy and responsible secretary of the club, often portrayed as the more cautious member.

Stacey McGill is a fashionable and sophisticated member who moves to Stoneybrook from New York City.

Over time, the club grows to include more members, each with their own unique personality and interests.

Each book, in the series of 131 books, focuses on the individual girls’ experiences, both in their personal lives and as babysitters. 

They encounter various challenges, such as handling difficult kids , dealing with family issues, and navigating the ups and downs of friendship .

This series explores themes of friendship, responsibility, family dynamics, and growing up. 

The 130+ books in this series tackle real-life issues that young readers can relate to, making the stories both entertaining and educational.

Geronimo Stilton

The Geronimo Stilton series is a popular collection of 82 children’s books written by the Italian author Elisabetta Dami under the pseudonym Geronimo Stilton. 

The series, originally published in Italian in 2000, has since been translated into numerous languages and has gained a wide following among young readers. 

These adventure novels are narrated by Geronimo Stilton, a mild-mannered, somewhat timid, and easily frightened little mouse who works as a journalist and editor for the fictional newspaper, “The Rodent’s Gazette.” 

Despite his fears, he often finds himself caught up in exciting adventures, daring escapades, and nail-biting mysteries.

Each book in the series focuses on one of Geronimo’s adventures and many include his family members and good friends. 

It often incorporates educational elements, including wordplay, puzzles, and facts, making it both entertaining and informative for young readers.

The Nancy Drew Mystery Stories is a well-known series of 175 children’s mystery novels created by publisher Edward Stratemeyer and written by various ghostwriters under the pseudonym Carolyn Keene. 

The series features Nancy Drew, a teenage sleuth known for her intelligence, resourcefulness, determination, and sense of justice. 

She is typically accompanied by her loyal friends, Bess Marvin and George Fayne, and occasionally her boyfriend, Ned Nickerson.

Each book in the series presents a different mystery for Nancy to solve including thefts, frauds, and missing persons to more complex crimes. 

Nancy often becomes entangled in these mysteries due to her curiosity or her desire to help someone in need.

Because the series has evolved and adapted over the years to reflect changing times and cultural sensitivities, make sure you know which version you are purchasing.

 For the most age-appropriate choices, I would probably look for the originals. 

​A to Z Mysteries

The A to Z Mysteries are a popular series of 26 children’s mystery books written by Ron Roy and illustrated by John Steven Gurney.

Each book is titled with a letter from the alphabet and focuses on a specific mystery related to something starting with that letter. 

Throughout the series, three young friends, Dink Duncan, Josh Pinto, and Ruth Rose Hathaway use their detective skills, teamwork, and clever thinking to solve a wide variety of mysteries in their hometown of Green Lawn. 

The stories are engaging and designed to be accessible to young readers, with simple language and short chapters.

The “A to Z Mysteries” series is a great choice for children who enjoy mysteries and are transitioning from picture books to chapter books. 

It encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and a love of reading . 

This series of 36 children’s mystery books, written by author David A. Adler, introduces readers to a young girl named Jennifer “Cam” Jansen.

She possesses an incredible photographic memory, which she refers to as her “click.” 

With this remarkable ability, Cam can remember and recall specific details of things she’s seen, which proves to be a valuable asset in solving mysteries. 

She and her friend Eric Shelton find themselves in various mystery-solving adventures throughout the series with Cam’s photographic memory being the key to uncovering clues and solving puzzling situations.

Encyclopedia Brown

This book series is a collection of 29 children’s mystery books written by American author Donald J. Sobol. 

Leroy “Encyclopedia” Brown is a young who sets up his own detective agency and uses his intelligence and deductive skills to solve various cases. 

Each book showcases multiple mysteries, each presented as a short story, that the young sleuth must solve.

The books are designed to encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills as readers try to solve the mysteries alongside Encyclopedia. 

Donald J. Sobol’s clever storytelling and the enduring popularity of the series have made Encyclopedia Brown a classic character in the world of children’s literature.

Flat Stanley

The Flat Stanley series is a collection of 21 children’s books created by author Jeff Brown, and known for its whimsical and imaginative premise.

The central character, Stanley Lambchop, has a unique characteristic: he becomes flat after a bulletin board falls on him while he is sleeping.

Throughout the series, the books combine humor, adventure, and a sense of wonder as Stanley navigates the world in his unique flat form. 

The stories often have underlying themes of friendship, problem-solving, and embracing one’s differences. 

Junie B. Jones

This delightful series of over 30 books written by Barbara Park follows the adventures of Junie B. Jones, a precocious and spirited kindergarten student, as she navigates the ups and downs of school and family life. 

Known for its humorous and relatable storytelling, this series is a favorite among young readers, especially those in the early elementary grades.

Many of the books revolve around Junie B.’s experiences at school, including making friends, dealing with teachers, and facing typical childhood challenges like losing her first tooth or going on field trips.

It’s a great series for children who are transitioning from picture books to chapter books and are looking for entertaining stories that capture the essence of childhood.

The Best Book Series

How to train your dragon.

The “How to Train Your Dragon” book series, written by Cressida Cowell, is a delightful collection of novels that inspired the popular animated film franchise. 

The series follows the adventures of a young Viking named Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III and his journey to become a hero and a dragon trainer.

Here are the How to Train Your Dragon books in order…

• How to Train Your Dragon 
• How to Train Your Dragon: How to Be a Pirate
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Speak Dragonese
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Cheat a Dragon’s Curse
• How to Train Your Dragon: How to Twist a Dragon’s Tale
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: A Hero’s Guide to Deadly Dragons
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Ride a Dragon’s Storm
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Break a Dragon’s Heart
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Steal a Dragon’s Sword
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Seize a Dragon’s Jewel
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Betray a Dragon’s Hero
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Fight a Dragon’s Fury
• Little House on the Prairie

A beloved collection of 9 children’s novels written by Laura Ingalls Wilder, and based on her own childhood experiences growing up in the American Midwest during the late 19th century. 

The books offer a captivating and nostalgic look at pioneer life, family, and the challenges faced by early settlers, and they have had a lasting impact on American literature and popular culture. 

Laura Ingalls Wilder’s stories have been adapted into a popular television series, and the books remain a staple in children’s literature, cherished by readers of all ages.

The Little House on the Prairie books in order…

• Little House in the Big Woods
• On the Banks of Plum Creek
• By the Shores of Silver Lake
• The Long Winter
• Little Town on the Prairie
• These Happy Golden Years
• The First Four Years
• Ivy and Bean

The “Ivy and Bean” series is a collection of 12 books written by author Annie Barrows and illustrated by Sophie Blackall. 

This series introduces readers to Ivy, who is quiet, bookish, and loves to read, and her next door neighbor named Bean, who is boisterous and full of energy. 

Initially, they don’t think they can be friends because they are so different, but they eventually discover common ground and form a unique and close-knit friendship.

If you are looking for books for 3rd graders featuring a delightful blend of humor, friendship, and adventure, then this is the series for you!

From breaking records, hunting ghosts, and babysitting woes to dancing, creating their own newspaper, and starting their own summer camp, these two friends are never short on ideas.

​Here is a list of the Ivy and Ben books in order…

• Ivy and Bean and the Ghost That Had to Go
• Ivy and Bean Break the Fossil Record
• Ivy and Bean Take Care of the Babysitter
• Ivy and Bean Bound to Be Bad
• Ivy and Bean Doomed to Dance
• Ivy and Bean What’s the Big Idea?
• Ivy and Bean No News Is Good News
• ​Ivy and Bean Make the Rules
• Ivy and Bean Take the Case
•  Ivy and Bean One Big Happy Family
• Ivy and Bean Get to Work!

The Lemonade War Series

This set of children’s books, written by Jacqueline Davies, is a contemporary series that explores themes of entrepreneurship, sibling relationships, and problem-solving. 

Evan Treski, a 3rd grade student, and his sister Jessie, who is in second grade, find themselves engaged in various entrepreneurial endeavors, often centered around lemonade stands. 

Each book in the series presents a different summer vacation and a new business challenge for Evan and Jessie.

Here is a list of The Lemonade War books in order…

• The Lemonade War
• The Lemonade Crime
• The Bell Bandit
• The Candy Smash
• The Magic Trap
• The Bridge Battle

Sarah, Plain and Tall Saga

This series is a collection of children’s books written by American author Patricia MacLachlan, which revolve around the Witting family and the character Sarah Wheaton.

These books are known for their gentle storytelling, rich characters, and themes of love, family, and the beauty of the natural world.

Sarah, Plain and Tall

​ After advertising for a mail-order bride to help take care of his family and his home, Jacob Whitting and his two children, Anna and Caleb, meet Sarah Wheaton, who moves from Maine to the prairie and slowly builds trust and love within the family.

Sarah begins to miss her coastal home in Maine and longs to visit her family, but Jacob, Anna, and Caleb, who have grown attached to Sarah, must decide whether they can bear to let her go, even temporarily, and whether they can make their home on the prairie a permanent one. 

Caleb’s Story

The third book (set several years after the events of the previous books) shifts its focus to Caleb, the younger of Jacob’s children, who is now a teenager and learning to share his experiences, thoughts, and feelings about life on the prairie and his relationship with his father, sister, and Sarah.

More Perfect Than the Moon

The fourth book focuses specifically on the character of Cassie, a teenager who has discovered a loved for writing poetry and who is learning to use her poems as a way to explore her thoughts and feelings about her family, her parents’ relationship, and her own place in the world.

Grandfather’s Dance

The final book in the series shifts attention to Anna, who is getting ready to be married, but the joy is mingled with sadness as the family has to come to terms with Sarah’s deteriorating health.

Henry Huggins Series

This series is a delightful collection of 6 children’s books written by Beverly Cleary that follow the adventures (and misadventures) of a young boy named Henry Huggins. 

These books are known for their humor, relatable characters, and portrayal of everyday life. 

Henry Huggins

The first book in this series introduces readers to Henry Huggins who, along with his family, friends, and dog, Ribsy, participates in various escapades, from trying to raise money to buy a bicycle to dealing with a mischievous pet.

Henry and Beezus

Henry and his friend Beezus Quimby, who happens to be the older sister of Ramona Quimby, find themselves in various humorous situations as they navigate school, family, and their neighborhood.

Henry and Ribsy

Henry and his best friend, and loyal dog, Ribsy have had lots of adventures together, but when Ribsy gets lost, Henry embarks on a mission to find him, leading to a series of comical and heartwarming events.

Henry and the Paper Route

​ In this installment, Henry takes on the responsibility of a paper route, leading to all sorts of amusing challenges and life lessons as he deals with difficult customers, rival paper carriers, and the ups and downs of his new job.

Henry and the Clubhouse  

Henry and his friends build a clubhouse, which becomes the center of all their imaginative adventures. 

This story is unique because readers get to experience Ribsy’s adventures and challenges, including getting lost in a shopping mall from his canine perspective.

The Ramona Quimby Series

This series by Beverly Cleary is a beloved collection of 8 children’s books that revolve around the adventures, challenges, and growth of Ramona Quimby, a young girl who is known for her spunky and imaginative personality. 

These books are cherished for their relatable characters, humor, and insights into childhood.

Beezus and Ramona

This first book introduces readers to Ramona Quimby and her relationship with her older sister, Beezus (Beatrice), who is often frustrated Ramona’s antics and imaginative behavior. 

Ramona the Pest

In this book, Ramona starts kindergarten, and readers get to experience her adventures (and misadventures) as she navigates the ups and downs of school life including feeling as though her teacher is treats her like a pest.

Ramona the Brave

This book follows Ramona as she continues to grow and face new challenges, including enduring a tumultuous first-grade year with resilience and bravery. 

Ramona and Her Father

​ Ramona faces changes in her family when her father loses his job, and she must come to terms with financial struggles. 

Ramona and Her Mother

In this installment, readers see the challenges Ramona’s mother faces as she returns to work, leaving Ramona to adjust to new routines, responsibilities, and family dynamics. 

Ramona Quimby, Age 8

​This book marks a pivotal year in Ramona’s life as she turns eight years old and gains more independence while also facing new challenges in school and with her friends. 

Ramona Forever

Ramona’s learns valuable lessons about responsibility when her beloved cat, Picky-picky, dies and her Aunt Beatrice gets married.

Ramona’s World

This is the final book in the series, and it follows Ramona as she enters the fourth grade, meets new friends, and begins expanding her world as well as her growing sense of empathy.

My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish Series

This wacky series of children’s books, written by Mo O’Hara, combines humor, adventure, and a touch of the supernatural to create a fun and engaging reading experience for young readers.

When a science experiment goes completely awry, young Tom’s pet goldfish, Frankie, is turned into a zombie goldfish.

My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish

Tom and his best friend, Pradeep, must keep Frankie’s secret while dealing with his newfound abilities, which include hypnotic powers and a craving for brains. 

The SeaQuel

In the second installment, Tom and Pradeep are on a new adventure with Frankie where they are facing evil scientist Mark’s latest creation, a robotic goldfish with a sinister plan.

Fins of Fury

Tom, Pradeep, and Frankie find themselves in a deep-sea mission and a race against time as they chase down Mark and his underwater zombie fish army set on taking over the world’s oceans.

Any Fin is Possible

Tom and Pradeep face must stop a mind-controlling computer game created by Mark in order to save their friends and family from the game’s sinister influence.

Live and Let Swim

The fifth book takes the friends on a wild adventure when they discover that the evil scientist’s latest invention can turn humans into fish. 

Jurassic Carp

Tom and Pradeep find themselves on an unexpected journey when a time-traveling Frankie leads them to the prehistoric era where they encounter dinosaurs and face various challenges to find their way back home.

Books by Author

Judy Blume is a highly acclaimed American author known for her books, primarily aimed at children and young adults, that deal with various aspects of growing up, including friendships, family, puberty, and coming of age. 

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

The first book in the “Fudge” series, it introduces us to the Hatcher family and features the misadventures of Peter Hatcher, a 4th-grade boy, and his mischievous younger brother Fudge, whose antics often cause trouble. 

Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great

The second story in the “Fudge” series focuses on the character Sheila Tubman, who, despite her outward bravado, deals with a lot of fears and insecurities during her stay in Tarrytown.

Peter has to adjust to major changes in his life, including the arrival of a new baby sister, Tootsie, and a move to Princeton, New Jersey with Fudge adding chaos and laughter every step of the way.

Fudge-a-Mania

This book finds the Hatchers vacationing in Maine, where Peter and Fudge encounter new friends and many more hilarious mishaps including a wedding!

Double Fudge

This book brings Peter and Fudge back to New York City, where Fudge becomes obsessed with money and wants to buy the entire world.

Roald Dahl was a renowned British author known for his imaginative and whimsical children’s books. 

His works have captivated readers of all ages with their humor, creativity, and sometimes darkly humorous or macabre themes. 

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Follows the adventures of Charlie Bucket (and a host of other unusual characters) as he tours Willy Wonka’s eccentric chocolate factory.

Tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a young girl with extraordinary abilities, resilience, intelligence and kindness, who must navigate life with her neglectful parents and tyrannical headmistress.

James and the Giant Peach

Follows the fantastical and adventurous journey of a young orphan named James Henry Trotter as he escapes from his miserable life (caused by his two cruel aunts) and embarks on a magical journey inside a giant peach.

The BFG (Big Friendly Giant)

After an unlikely meeting, Sophie and her new friend, the BFG, must learn to work together to stop other, less friendly giants from eating children in this heartwarming tale of friendship, bravery, and the triumph of good over evil. 

Fantastic Mr. Fox

A whimsical and adventurous underdog story about a clever, cunning, and resourceful fox who outwits three cruel farmers dead set on carrying out their cruel plan.

Beverly Cleary

Beverly Cleary is a beloved American author who wrote books known for their relatable characters, humor, and ability to address real-life issues faced by children and adolescents.

And while I’ve already shared the Henry Huggins Series and the Ramona Quimby Series written by Beverly Cleary, I wanted to share a few more favorites that are ideal books for third grade students.

The Mouse and the Motorcycle

In this first book, readers are introduced to the adventures of a young mouse named Ralph who lives in a hotel and befriends a boy named Keith, who also happens to have a toy motorcycle that Ralph learns to ride. 

Runaway Ralph

In this sequel, Ralph decides to leave the hotel and his journey leads him to a summer camp where he meets a lonely boy named Garf who needs Ralph’s help. 

Ralph S. Mouse

In the final book, Ralph ends up in a school and finds himself caught between the world of mice and the world of humans. 

Dear Mr. Henshaw

​ This Newbery medal winning novel tells the story of Leigh Botts, a young boy who corresponds with his favorite author, Mr. Henshaw, through a series of letters which help him overcome the impact of loneliness and divorce in a journey of self-discovery. 

Socks has always been the center of attention in his home with the Bricker family, but everything changes when the new baby arrives.

This touching story explores the dynamics between pets and their human families, particularly in the face of changes and challenges. 

Beverly Cleary’s characters and stories continue to be cherished by generations and her contributions to children’s literature have left a lasting legacy.

Graphic Novel Books

These are the style of books that reluctant readers tend to gravitate toward because they don’t feel as overwhelming as “regular” books.

Instead of pages and pages of text, these books contain engaging illustrations and comical language to keep the interest of your readers.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series

This series a highly popular and humorous collection of middle-grade novels written by American author and cartoonist Jeff Kinney. 

These funny tales are presented in the form of a diary, filled with text and amusing illustrations.

Greg Heffley is starting middle school, and he is not sure he’s up for the challenges he is getting ready to face.

Join Greg and Rowley, along with a host of other entertaining characters as they face older brother problems, summer vacation(s), snowstorms, the awkwardness of adolescence, relationships, a family road trip, breaks from technology, school projects, and home renovations.

Here are the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books in order…

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third Wheel
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Old School
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Double Down
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Meltdown
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep End
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Diper Overlode
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: No Brainer

Every single hilarious book in this series will have your 3rd graders cackling with laughter!

The Captain Underpants Series

The “Captain Underpants” series, written by Dav Pilkey, primarily revolves around George and Harold, two fourth-grade pranksters at Jerome Horwitz Elementary School. 

This particular group of books for 3rd graders is well-known for its engaging blend of humor, action, and occasional potty humor. 

In fact, when George and Harold aren’t hypnotizing their principal or watching talking toilets terrorize their town, they are facing invasions of alien cafeteria ladies, trying to fix science experiments gone awry, and traveling through time to protect the world as they know it.

These ridiculous stories often feature comic book-style illustrations, flip-o-rama pages (where readers can flip back and forth to create simple animation), and jokes that appeal to the sensibilities of young readers.

Boys, in particular, will call these books the “best thing” that has ever happened to literature.

The Captain Underpants books in order…

• The Adventures of Captain Underpants
• Captain Underpants and the Attack of the Talking Toilets
• Captain Underpants and the Invasion of the Incredibly Naughty Cafeteria Ladies from Outer Space (and the Subsequent Assault of the Equally Evil Lunchroom Zombie Nerds)
• Captain Underpants and the Perilous Plot of Professor Poopypants
• Captain Underpants and the Wrath of the Wicked Wedgie Woman
• Captain Underpants and the Big, Bad Battle of the Bionic Booger Boy – Part 1: The Night of the Nasty Nostril Nuggets
• Captain Underpants and the Big, Bad Battle of the Bionic Booger Boy – Part 2: The Revenge of the Ridiculous Robo-Boogers
• Captain Underpants and the Preposterous Plight of the Purple Potty People
• Captain Underpants and the Terrifying Re-Turn of Tippy Tinkletrousers
• Captain Underpants and the Revolting Revenge of the Radioactive Robo-Boxers
• Captain Underpants and the Tyrannical Retaliation of the Turbo Toilet 2000
• Captain Underpants and the Sensational Saga of Sir Stinks-A-Lot

The Notebook of Doom Series

This series of books for 3rd graders follows the adventures of Alexander Bopp, a young boy who moves to the small and seemingly ordinary town of Stermont. 

However, Alexander quickly discovers that Stermont is anything but ordinary. 

In fact, it’s a town filled with bizarre and sometimes terrifying monsters.

When Alexander stumbles upon an unusual notebook, which he names the “Notebook of Doom,” he begins to use the information in the notebook to defeat the monsters haunting the town. 

Armed with the notebook and his resourcefulness, Alexander becomes the town’s unofficial Monster Hunter.

Here are the Notebook of Doom books in order…

• Rise of the Balloon Goons
• Day of the Night Crawlers
• Attack of the Shadow Smashers
• Chomp of the Meat-Eating Vegetables
• Whack of the P-Rex
• Pop of the Bumpy Mummy
• Flurry of the Snombies
• Charge of the Lightning Bugs
• Rumble of the Coaster Ghost
• Snap of the Super-Goop
• Sneeze of the Octo-Schnozz
• March of the Vanderpants
• Battle of the Boss-Monster

Dork Diaries

The “Dork Diaries” series follows Nikki Maxwell’s life as she attends Westchester Country Day, a fictional middle school. 

Nikki often feels like an outsider and uses her diary as a way to cope with the challenges she faces, including dealing with bullies, making friends, and pursuing her passion for art. 

The books are known for their relatable and humorous portrayal of middle school life.

Here are the Dork Diary books in order…

• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life 
• Dork Diaries: Party Time
• Dork Diaries: Pop Star 
• Dork Diaries: Skating Sensation
• Dork Diaries: Dear Dork
• Dork Diaries: Holiday Heartbreak
• Dork Diaries: TV Star
• Dork Diaries: Once Upon a Dork
• Dork Diaries: Drama Queen 
• Dork Diaries: Puppy Love
• ​Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Friendly Frenemy
• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Secret Crush Catastrophe
• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Happy Birthday
• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Best Friend Forever
• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Posh Paris Adventure
• The Bad Guys

A series of 18 children’s graphic novels written and illustrated by Aaron Blabey, and known for its humor, action, and memorable characters. 

This unique series of stories has gained a wide readership and critical acclaim due to its ability to encourage reluctant readers to pick up a book.

The Bad Guys, a group of reformed villians, set out on various missions to help animals in need and right wrongs. 

Their ultimate goal is to change their reputations from being bad guys to good guys, which often leads to comical situations.

Here is a list of The Bad Guys books in order…

• The Bad Guys in Mission Unpluckable
• The Bad Guys in the Furball Strikes Back
• The Bad Guys in Attack of the Zittens
• The Bad Guys in Interstellar Gas
• The Bad Guys in Alien vs Bad Guys
• The Bad Guys in Do-You-Think-He-Saurus?!
• The Bad Guys in Superbad
• The Bad Guys in The Big Bad Wolf
• The Bad Guys in The Baddest Day Ever
• The Bad Guys in Dawn of the Underlord
• The Bad Guys in The One?!
• The Bad Guys Cut to the Chase
• The Bad Guys in They’re Bee-Hind You!
• The Bad Guys in Open Wide and Say Arrrgh!
• The Bad Guys in the Others?!
• The Bad Guys in Let the Games Begin!
• The Bad Guys in Look Who’s Talking

If you want to find a great book for every student who walks into your classroom this school year, then this ultimate guide to books for 3rd graders is what you need.

Today’s children need to have the opportunity to interact with books on their reading level, and there is something for everyone on this list.

Jennifer is a former elementary school teacher (M. Ed.) turned literacy interventionist, blogger, podcaster, TpT author, and homeschooling mom. When she's not with her husband & boys, she's sharing her love for Jesus, designing websites, helping other teachers pursue online businesses, organizing ALL THE THINGS, or watching New Girl. Read More >>

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50 Best 3rd Grade Books for Summer Reading (Age 8)

This post may contain affiliate links.

What are the best 3rd grade books for summer reading? Here are my chapter book and nonfiction book recommendations for 3rd graders, ages 8 and 9 (third grade), to read during summer vacation– or anytime.

You’ll find the best of funny books , fantasy books , friendship stories,  adventure stories , and books about animals. These are excellent books that will get your 3rd grade readers hooked on books all summer long!

I’m a former teacher, parent of two, avid reader, and book reviewer (15 years.) You can trust that I’ve read and reviewed all of these books and that these choices will be interesting to children and appropriate for third-grade readers.

You may be wondering: how old are 3rd graders? The third grade age is usually age 8, turning age 9 sometime during the school year.

These books for 3rd graders in the upper range of chapter books and the lower range of middle grade books . These 3rd grade books are short, illustrated, and about topics 3rd graders can relate to. Those topics and themes include friendship, family, real life, and hard things –like saving the world or solving a mystery!

Download the free printable of this summer reading list. NOTE: If you don’t see the printable sign-up below, please clear your cache and try again.

This list of 3rd grade books only shows the titles. If you want to read my detailed reviews, visit the best books for 3rd graders. There, you’ll read the book title, the author, the illustrator, the genre, and my review, elaborating on the plot, theme, and why kids will like it.

Don’t forget that a summer reading program can be awesome motivation. Download my free printable summer reading packet to help your kids set goals and stay on track.

Make sure the book is at the “just right” reading level with the 5 Finger Test .

For book reviews, visit  Best Books for 8-Year Olds Book Reviews .

More summer reading book lists:

2nd grade summer reading list 4th grade summer reading list All reading lists by grade level

3rd Grade Books for Summer Reading (Age 8)

SHOP this list.

3rd Grade Books: Graphic Novels

Young readers love graphic novels — and they count 100% as real reading with compelling stories and interesting characters and plots. Reluctant readers and all readers use essential reading comprehension skills like inference when reading graphic novels. So if your 3rd graders like graphic novels, pick one of these fantastic 3rd grade books.

• Cat Ninja by Matthew Cody (book series)
• Mr. Wolf’s Class: Mystery Club  by Aron Nels Steinke (book series)
• P.I. Butterfly Gone Guppy Case #1  by Karen Kilpatrick (book series)
• First Cat in Space by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Shawn Harris (book series)
• Dragon Kindom of Wrenly: The Coldfire Curse  by Jordan Quinn (book series)
• Simon and Chester: Super Detectives by Cale Atkinson (book series)
• Hound Heroes: Beware the Claw  by Todd H. Doodler (book series)
• King of the Birds  by Elise Gravel (book series)
• Great Puptective  by Alina Tysoe 

3rd Grade Books: Funny Books

If your 3rd grade reader likes funny books , they’ll love these hilarious chapter books.

• Doodle Adventures: The Search for Slimy Space Slugs!   by Mike Lowery (book series)
• The 13-Story Treehouse by Andy Griffiths (book series)
• Bad Kitty Supercat  by Nick Bruel (book series)
• Two-Headed Chicken  by Tom Angleberger (book series)
• Cat Kid Comic Club by Dav Pilkey (book series)
• Real Pigeons Fight Crime by Ben Wood (book series)
• Monday into the Cave of Thieves (Total Mayhem #1) by Ralph Lazar (book series)
• Bunny and Clyde  written by Megan McDonald (book series)

3rd Grade Realistic Books

If your early readers in 3rd grade like realistic stories , they’ll love one of these great books:

• Sarai and the Meaning of Awesome (series) by Sarai Gonzalez and Monica Brown
• Stella Diaz has Something to Say (series) by Angela Dominguez
• Ellie, Engineer (series) by Jackson Pearce
• Planet Omar  (series) by Zanib Mian
• Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business (series) by Lyla Lee
• Stink and the Shark Sleepover (series) by Megan McDonald
• I Survived the Battle of Gettysburg, 1863   by Lauren Tarshis
• Leeva at Last  by Sara Pennypacker

3rd Grade Adventure & Mystery Books

If your 3rd graders like adventure and mystery books, they’ll love:

• I Survived the San Francisco Earthquake   (series) by Lauren Tarshis
• Trapped in a Video Game (series) by Dustin Brady
• P.I. Butterfly Gone Guppy Case #1 (series) by Karen Kilpatrick
• Mac Undercover (Kid Spy #1)   (series) by Mac Barnett
• Secret Agent Jack Stalwart   (series) by Elizabeth Singer Hunt
• The Great Shelby Holmes  (series) by Elizabeth Eulberg
• Word Travelers and the Taj Mahal Mystery  (series) by Raj Haldar

3rd Grade Fantasy and Science Fiction Books

If your young reader enjoys reading fantasy and science fiction  books, they’ll love:

• Dragons in a Bag (series) by Zetta Elliott
• Whatever After   (series) by Sarah Mlynowski
• Pip Bartlett’s Guide to Magical Creatures  (series) by Jackson Pearce and Maggie Stiefvater
• Bob by Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead
• Star Wars Jedi Academy  (series) by Jeffrey Brown
• Pizazz  (series) by Sophy Henn
• Dragons of Ember City: Happy Spark Day   (series)by Shane Richardson and Sarah Marino
• Dragon Kindom of Wrenly: The Coldfire Curse  by Jordan Quinn

3rd Grade Books: Animal Books and Stories

If your third grader loves animal books , pick from one of these good books:

• Jenny and the Cat Club   (series) by Esther Averill
• The Critter Club   (series) by Callie Barkley and Marsha Riti
• Love Puppies: Best Friends Furever  by JaNay Brown Wood
• Olga and the Smelly Thing From Nowhere by Elise Gravel
• Dolphin Rescue (Animal Planet Adventures #1)  (series) by Catherine Nichols
• Who Would Win? Whale vs. Giant Squid by Jerry Pallotta
• What Makes a Monster? Discovering the World’s Scariest Creatures  by Jess Keating
• Who Would Win: Ultimate Jungle Rumble by Jerry Pallotta
• Unicorn Academy: Sophia and Rainbow   by Julie Skyes
• Squirlish: The Girl in the Tree  by Ellen Potter

3rd Grade Books: Nonfiction

If your 8-year-old in third grade likes nonfiction books , try these good nonfiction choices for 3rd graders:

• Escape This Book Tombs of Egypt by Bill Doyle
• The Inventors of LEGO Toys  by Erin Hagar
• The Toad: The Disgusting Critters Series  by Elise Gravel
• Strange But True! Our Weird, Wild, Wonderful World  DK
• Rocket to the Moon: Big Ideas That Changed the World  by Don Brown
• What If You Had an Animal Nose!?  by Sandra Markle
• Stone Age Beasts  written by Ben Lerwill
• What’s Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon? and Other Questions About Moths & Butterflies  by Rachel Ignotofsky

Reading Journal

If you want to help your third graders reflect and think critically about the books they’re reading, give them Imagination Soup’s Reading Journal for Kids !

You Might Also Like

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Book Lists with Reviews

Early Reader Books Books for 1st Graders Books for 2nd Graders Books for 3rd Graders Books for 4th Graders Books for 5th Graders Books for 6th Graders Books for 7th Graders YA Books

Melissa Taylor, MA, is the creator of Imagination Soup. She's a mother, former teacher & literacy trainer, and freelance education writer. She writes Imagination Soup and freelances for publications online and in print, including Penguin Random House's Brightly website, USA Today Health, Adobe Education, Colorado Parent, and Parenting. She is passionate about matching kids with books that they'll love.

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21 Comments

Hi~ I can’t find the link for the printable summer reading lists for 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. Can you please share it with me. Thank you SO much!

Just emailed them to you.

I am a teacher at an elementary school. I love your summer reading lists. I love that you update them every year. I cannot find the link to print the third grade summer reading list. Can you send it to me? Thank you.

I love your lists!

Is there a 3rd grade printable summer reading list? I printed the rest of them but couldn’t find the 3rd grade printable list. Thanks!!

Here you go — https://imaginationsoup.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/3rd-grade-summer-reading-list.pdf .

Hi Melissa! I sent in to get the 3rd grade summer reading list printable version. I am an elementary librarian and would love your Picture book through 6th grades lists if possible? Thanks for your great lists!!

Let me work on that and get back to you. 🙂

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Favorite books for 3rd graders

by: The GreatSchools Editorial Team

Print book list

2030: A Day in the Life of Tomorrow’s Kids

by: Amy Zuckerman and Jim Daly , illustrated by: John Manders - (Dutton, 2009) 32 pages.

A talking dog, a housecleaning robot and a three-dimensional “data orb” are among the many cool features that kids might enjoy in the future, according to this lighthearted look at 2030. The breezy narrative follows one boy through a typical day, highlighting many interesting aspects of his world. Fanciful cartoon drawings show a lively and appealing world full of new and intriguing activities that correspond neatly to modern equivalents. Schools are now made from plasticized blocks that snap together, for example, while recess features virtual batting practice and a “smart trampoline.” Recreational activities include magnetized hovering skateboards and a virtual-reality “Fanta-trek Center.” Some social changes are briefly noted, such as new career paths and the increase of marriages between different ethnicities. Interaction with the natural world is not mentioned, although many of the new technologies have eco-friendly components and the food is all meatless and delicious.

Find 2030: A Day in the Life of Tomorrow’s Kids at your local library.

Best Friends for Frances

by: Russell Hoban , illustrated by: Lillian Hoban - (Harper & Row, 1969) 32 pages.

Frances can’t imagine being friends with her little sister Gloria until she is excluded from the all-boys baseball game. To her surprise, Gloria makes a good friend, but can she ever be a best friend? If your child enjoys this book, introduce her to other stories in this series including A Birthday for Frances.

Perfect for: Kids who like making friends.

Find Best Friends for Frances at your local library.

The Facts and Fictions of Minna Pratt

by: Patricia MacLachlan - (Harper & Row, 1988) 144 pages.

Minna grows up with some odd friends and relatives. MacLachlan’s stories are a rarity in today’s children’s books — simple, gentle tales of children who manage to be reasonably nice kids without being insipid. Minna Pratt is an amazingly delightful book, a book that makes you smile all through it, a book that makes you want to know all of the characters in real life.

Find The Facts and Fictions of Minna Pratt at your local library.

George and Martha

by: James Marshall - (Houghton Mifflin Company, 1972) 48 pages.

George and Martha are two hilarious hippo friends who invariably get themselves into sticky situations. Your child will love finding out what happens when George does not like the split pea soup that Martha has made for him in “Split Pea Soup,” just one of the five humorous stories in this collection.

Find George and Martha at your local library.

Hedgie’s Surprise

by: Jan Brett - (Putnam Juvenile, 2000) 32 pages.

Henny wants to raise little chicks, but an elf keeps stealing her eggs before they hatch. Your child will be surprised to learn how her friend Hedgie helps Henny scare off the bothersome elf once and for all. Make a special point to draw your young child’s attention to the nearly hidden pictures that border each page of this book.

Find Hedgie’s Surprise at your local library.

A Letter to Amy

by: Ezra Jack Keats - (Harper & Row, 1968) 32 pages.

In this classic book about friendship, Peter has a falling-out with his friend Amy. Peter fears the worst — that Amy will not come to his birthday party. Children will relate to this story’s themes, and Ezra Jack Keats’s collage illustrations will intrigue children and parents alike.

Find A Letter to Amy at your local library.

by: Janell Cannon - (Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1993) 46 pages.

The hook: Stellaluna is a baby fruit bat happily flying along with her mother when an owl attacks. The poor little bat is knocked out of her mother’s grasp and lands in a birds’ nest. The mother bird accepts Stellaluna as long as she acts like a bird, not a bat. Soon enough, Stellaluna learns to eat bugs and stop hanging by her feet. When she finally has a chance to show her bird siblings, Pip, Flutter and Flap, what life as a bat is like, they are left all in a muddle: “How can we be so different and feel so much alike?” one asks. Anyone who has ever been in a position where they can’t be who they really are will relate to Stellaluna’s predicament. Cannon’s award-winning illustrations convey the nocturnal world beautifully. Readers will be enchanted by this book with its messages of acceptance, friendship and a mothers’ love.

Want to see the movie? The 2012 animated adaptation fleshes out the picture book with additional characters and songs while staying true to the story.

Find Stellaluna at your local library.

That’s What Friends Are For

by: Florence Parry Heide and Sylvia Van Clief , illustrated by: Holly Meade - (Candlewick, 2003) 40 pages.

Theodore, the lumbering elephant, hurts his leg so badly he can’t walk to the edge of the forest to meet his cousin. Will his friends’ advice help him solve his problem, or does he need something more? The collages of painted paper and repeating text pattern will make this reprint of the 1968 classic one of your child’s favorites.

Find That’s What Friends Are For at your local library.

Fairy Tale Feasts: A Literary Cookbook for Young Readers and Eaters

by: Jane Yolen and Heidi E. Stemple , illustrated by: Philippe Beha - (Crocodile Books, 2006) 197 pages.

Jane Yolen retells familiar fairy tales in a brief and lively style, while her daughter, co-author Heidi Stemple, pairs them with at least one kid-friendly recipe that connects with the story’s theme or references. For example, “Cinderella” is presented with a recipe for pumpkin tarts, while “The Runaway Pancake” is matched with, of course, a recipe for pancakes. The tales are divided into four sections: breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. The colorful illustrations add to the fun, and margin notes provide additional information on main ingredients and the stories and their origins. Adult supervision will be necessary for completing the recipes, but this book would be a great way for the whole family to share a reading and eating experience.

Perfect for: Kids who like to cook.

Find Fairy Tale Feasts: A Literary Cookbook for Young Readers and Eaters at your local library.

How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World

by: Marjorie Priceman - (Random House, 1994) 40 pages.

A young baker travels the world to find the finest ingredients for her apple pie. On her journey, she introduces the reader to cultures and products from around the globe. After the raw ingredients are prepared for the pie, the baker invites children from around the world to share it with her. The recipe is included at the end of the book.

Find How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World at your local library.

by: Andrew Clements , illustrated by: Brian Selznick - (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 1996) 112 pages.

When clever yet precocious Nick decides to invent a new word for pen, it puts him at odds with his no-nonsense teacher, a stickler for grammar and proper word usage. What begins as a classroom duel over the usage of the word “frindle,” escalates into a national word craze.

Perfect for: Kids who like realism.

Find Frindle at your local library.

I and You and Don’t Forget Who: What Is a Pronoun?

by: Brian P. Cleary , illustrated by: Brian Gable - (Lerner Publishing Group, 2004) 32 pages.

This book tells a story in rhyme, using different types of pronouns, leading children to become more apt to remember what pronouns are. The colorful illustrations feature funny monster-like creatures taking part in everyday activities.

Perfect for: Kids who like poetry.

Find I and You and Don’t Forget Who: What Is a Pronoun? at your local library.

Summer Reading Is Killing Me

by: Jon Scieszka , illustrated by: Lane Smith - (Viking, 1998) 80 pages.

This installment of the popular Time Warp Trio series is homage to some of the best-ever summer reading lists. Sam, Fred and Joe happen to have in their possession a bona fide time traveling book. When one of the boys absentmindedly puts their summer reading list in the book, they find themselves in the midst of a literary battle of evil against good!

Perfect for: Kids who like fantasy.

Find Summer Reading is Killing Me at your local library.

Dexter the Tough

by: Margaret Peterson Haddix , illustrated by: Mark Elliott - (Simon & Schuster, 2007) 144 pages.

Dexter is tough! On the first day of school, he lashes out when he trips and the other kids laugh at him. He punches another kid in the bathroom. But like so many kids with a gruff demeanor, Dexter is acting out because of a painful circumstance at home. He learns to express his emotions because of a gifted teacher and a writing assignment. I can think of no better lesson for a child to learn — feelings come out, one way or another — and finding a healthy way to sort them out is important. Perfect for a third-grader who has been bullied, or who can be too tough with others.

Perfect for: Kids who like stories about school.

Find Dexter the Tough at your local library.

Mapping Penny’s World

by: Loreen Leedy - (Henry Holt, 2000) 32 pages.

Lisa’s class is learning how to make maps in school. For a homework assignment, she decides to make a map of her dog Penny’s world. She includes the places where Penny likes to hide her toys and the best walking routes. This fun story will also help your child learn about the important features of maps.

Find Mapping Penny’s World at your local library.

La Mariposa

by: Francisco Jiménez , illustrated by: Simón Silva - (Houghton Mifflin, 1998) 40 pages.

La Mariposa is a beautifully illustrated book about author Francisco Jiménez’s childhood as a member of a Mexican migrant farm family. Young Francisco prepares himself for English-only first grade, without knowing a word of this new language. As the days pass, he becomes more and more uncertain if he will ever learn English, learn to read or find a friend. However, his beautiful drawings of butterflies help him win over the class bully and begin to transcend the barrier of language.

Find La Mariposa at your local library.

Thank You, Mr. Falker

by: Patricia Polacco - (Philomel, 1988) 40 pages.

Patricia Polacco describes what it was like to be unable to read in the fifth grade. She was taunted by classmates and plagued with her own self-doubt until a teacher finally recognized that she couldn’t read and gave her the assurance and help she needed to succeed.

Find Thank You, Mr. Falker at your local library.

by: Edward Eager - (Oxford University Press, 1954) 208 pages.

Half Magic was the Magic Tree House of its day. As if wizardry was not enough, our four main characters take on multiple adventures with only “half” the magical prowess they need from a found coin. The kids devise clever ways to utilize the coin’s capacity and the result is a very cool and captivating story. If your child falls in love with Half Magic, there are several sequels to quench their thirst for more.

Perfect for: Kids who like classic stories.

Find Half Magic at your local library.

Homer Price

by: Robert McCloskey - (Puffin, 1943) 160 pages.

Homer Price’s six sidesplitting exploits included here will keep your child reading and rolling in the aisles. Author of many wonderful books, including the award-winning Make Way for Ducklings and Blueberries for Sal , Robert McCloskey was truly inspired by his funny bone when he wrote these stories.

Find Homer Price at your local library.

by: J.M. Barrie - (Charles Scribner's Sons, 1911) 240 pages.

The hook: The original language is rich, and the story, so much a part of our culture, inspires children to dream. Some of the racial and gender stereotypes, typical for their time, will need explanation.

Want to watch the movie? The still-enchanting Disney classic contains some dated stereotypes but may prompt great discussions about how movies have changed since 1953.

Find Peter Pan at your local library.

Rabbit Hill

by: Robert Lawson - (Viking Press, 1944) 128 pages.

Rabbit Hill is a time-honored book about a family of rabbits and the meaning of community. The characters are the same as they are in any neighborhood; you get a little of everything, both funny and frustrating. The inspired vocabulary makes for a welcome challenge and the environmental element of the story inspires discussion. Perfect for a parent-child book club.

Find Rabbit Hill at your local library.

The Wheel on the School

by: Meindert DeJong , illustrated by: Maurice Sendak - (Harper & Bros., 1954) 320 pages.

Set in Holland in a tiny fishing village, this is the story of Lina and her classmates. After doing some research for a school report, Lina is determined to lure storks back to their village as they are believed to bring good luck. This book won the 1955 Newbery Award.

Find The Wheel on the School at your local library.

Bone #3: Eyes of the Storm

by: Jeff Smith - (Graphix, 1996) 192 pages.

Fone Bone, a fanciful character, hides from the rat creatures with Gran’ma Ben (a former queen) and his human friend, Thorn (who finds out she is a princess). This graphic novel weaves together intrigue and humor.

Perfect for: Kids who like fantasy stories.

Find Bone #3: Eyes of the Storm at your local library.

The Castle Corona

by: Sharon Creech , illustrated by: David Diaz - (Joanna Cotler Books, 2007) 336 pages.

This is a clever, fun fairytale with positive messages. There is mild fairytale violence and of course, budding romance. A storyteller tells a story in which parents and siblings die and thieves are killed; the killings are shown as unjust. Families can talk about being grateful and what the characters learned about the responsibilities that come with privilege. Why was the princess so unhappy? Why weren’t riches enough for the royals? How did the peasants feel about the royals once they met them?

Find The Castle Corona at your local library.

Cinderella (As if You Didn’t Already Know the Story)

by: Barbara Ensor - (Random House, 2006) 128 pages.

This version of the familiar story allows girls to connect with Cinderella as they dive deep into the life of a fairy-tale princess. The modern-day twist allows the readers to hear the story in a unique and interesting way.

Find Cinderella (As if You Didn’t Already Know the Story) at your local library.

How to Train Your Dragon

by: Cressida Cowell - (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2004) 224 pages.

The hook: This humorous 15-book series follows Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, the brainy undersized son of a hulking Viking chief. He describes himself as “not a natural at the Heroism business.” Hiccup, along with the other young Vikings, must choose a dragon hatchling to train and learn to become a warrior before being initiated as an adult member of the tribe. Filled with slightly rude humor that will appeal to preadolescents (including character names like “Dogsbreath the Duhbrain” and “Snotface Snotlout,”), and rough — but funny — illustrations, this engaging series is sustained by themes about being an underdog and succeeding in ways outside the norm.

Want to watch the movie? The animated adventures How to Train Your Dragon (2010) and How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014) are loosely based on the book series.

Perfect for: Reluctant readers who are tickled by preteen humor.

Find our favorites at your local library: How to Train Your Dragon , How to Be a Pirate , How to Cheat a Dragon’s Curse .

In the Ice Age: Andrew Lost #12

by: J.C. Greenburg - (Random House, 2005) 85 pages.

In this installment of the Andrew Lost series, Andrew and Judy must save their Uncle Al — a top-secret scientist and inventor of the Time-A-Tron time-travel machine — from the Ice Age. They use their creative problem-solving skills to escape from saber-toothed tigers and make friends with a group of Ice Age people, all while avoiding the clutches of the evil Doctor Kron-Tox. This book has it all: adventure, humor and a super-smart robot named Thudd who peppers the story with true facts about the Ice Age.

Find In the Ice Age: Andrew Lost #12 at your local library.

Knights of the Kitchen Table

by: Jon Scieszka - (Viking, 1991) 55 pages.

This first book in the Time Warp Trio Series is an imaginative and humorous read. The book begins with three boys celebrating a birthday. One of the presents happens to be a book with a card that states, “Be careful what you wish for.” Once the book is opened, the boys are transported back to the time of knights, giants and dragons. If you enjoy adventure and fantasy this is a must read!

Find Knights of the Kitchen Table at your local library.

Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye, Geronimo Stilton series

by: Geronimo Stilton - (Scholastic, 2004) 128 pages.

This series is a favorite for boys who are reluctant readers. Hip language and vocabulary, cultural references, multi-colored fonts, colorful illustrations and maps are both eye catching and motivating factors for young readers. Geronimo Stilton is a mouse who is editor-in-chief of a popular newspaper, and he has found himself in a particularly interesting situation. Geronimo’s sister, Thea, discovers a treasure map, where an X marks the spot, of hidden treasure. Come join Geronimo and his sister as they travel to a faraway island in search of the Emerald Eye. Will a hurricane stop them or a sinking boat? You must read to find out.

Find Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye, Geronimo Stilton Series at your local library.

The McElderry Book of Grimms’ Fairy Tales

by: Saviour Pirotta , illustrated by: Emma Chichester Clark - (Simon & Schuster/Margaret K. McElderry, 2006) 128 pages.

First published in England in 2002, this nicely designed collection of 10 Grimms’ tales includes both the well-known — “The Sleeping Beauty” (Briar Rose), “The Golden-Haired Girl in the Tower” (Rapunzel), and “The Magic Gingerbread House” (Hansel and Gretel) — and the less familiar — “Little Mouse and Lazy Cat,” “The Swans and the Brave Princess” (The Six Swans), and “The Magic Bear and the Handsome Prince” (Snow White and Rose Red). Pirotta’s retellings are straightforward and colloquial without soft-pedaling the darker aspects of the stories (evil witches get burned at the stake, trusting rodents get eaten and a handsome prince in the guise of a frog winds up in the bed of a princess).

Find The McElderry Book of Grimms’ Fairy Tales at your local library.

Mightier Than the Sword: World Folktales for Strong Boys

by: Jane Yolen , illustrated by: Raul Colon - (Harcourt, 2003) 128 pages.

Jane Yolen, a prolific, award-winning children’s author, selected and reworked these stories from China, Germany, Ireland, Afghanistan, Finland, Angola and more. This anthology for boys serves to remind us of the virtue of strength without force. Yolen has written a similar anthology for girls, Not One Damsel in Distress: World Folktales for Strong Girls.

Find Mightier Than the Sword: World Folktales for Strong Boys at your local library.

My Curious Uncle Dudley

by: Barry Yourgrau , illustrated by: Tony Auth - (Candlewick Press, 2004) 224 pages.

When 11-year-old Duncan Peckle’s parents take an unexpected vacation, he is left in the temporary care of his curious, definitely eccentric Uncle Dudley. There are adventures ahead that include enchantments, elixirs, and a few amusing goblins.

Find My Curious Uncle Dudley at your local library.

The Tail of Emily Windsnap

by: Liz Kessler , illustrated by: Sarah Gibb - (Orion Children's Books, 2004) 208 pages.

The best compliment for a book is that you hope it will never end. That is exactly the sentiment expressed when a child tells me about reading The Tail of Emily Windsnap. Although Emily lives on a boat, her parents are very wary of her being in the water. Emily discovers that she is half-mermaid and she begins to pursue the mystery of her father’s disappearance. First in a series, your child will occupy many enjoyable hours with this engaging “tail.”

Find The Tail of Emily Windsnap at your local library.

The Trial of Cardigan Jones

by: Tim Egan - (Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004) 32 pages.

Cardigan Jones, clumsy new moose in town, finds himself in the middle of the case of a missing apple pie. As he moves past many misperceptions, all is resolved in court in this Law & Order take-off for kids.

Find The Trial of Cardigan Jones at your local library.

Two Bad Ants

by: Chris Van Allsburg - (Houghton Mifflin, 1988) 32 pages.

A Caldecott Medal author, Van Allsburg takes us into the world of ants. The story begins when a scout brings his queen a strange new treasure, a crystal that appeals to her sweet tooth. The ants want to please “the mother of them all,” so they march off in search of more crystals for their queen. They trek through woods (grass) and survive a thunderstorm (the sound of crickets combined with dropping dew drops and the light of a passing firefly). They climb a mountain (the wall of a house) and go through a tunnel (window) to a glassy curved wall (sugar bowl). In their haste to leave “this unnatural place,” they fail to notice that two have stayed behind to enjoy the feast. The artwork lends itself to the sense of mystery, all bold lines and earth tones. Will they make it home? Read the book and find out.

Find Two Bad Ants at your local library.

The Wonderful Flight to the Mushroom Planet

by: Eleanor Cameron - (Little, Brown and Company, 1956) 226 pages.

An early classic in children’s science fiction, the story concerns two young boys who take off to a “nearby” planet in their homemade spaceship. The tiny planet is in dire trouble, and the boys are recruited to save it from certain galactic extinction. Mr. Bass and the Mushroom People are unforgettable, and the appeal of the adventures is timeless.

Find The Wonderful Flight to the Mushroom Planet at your local library.

by: Chris Van Allsburg - (Houghton Mifflin, 2002) 32 pages.

The hook: With the movie release of Chris Van Allsburg’s book, Zathura, children of all ages will be eager to read the book version. Many Allsburg fans waited a long time to finally find out what happened after Judy and Peter discarded the Jumanji game in the park. We were left with the Budwing brothers as they stumbled upon the mysterious box. When they open the box, they see the Jumanji game board and another space-themed board. This board transports the players from earth to a purple planet called Zathura. Before they know it the boys are swept up in a nail-biting, outer-space adventure. Will they survive a black hole, space ships and robots? This is a must read if you’ve always wondered what happened to Danny and Walter Budwing.

Want to see the movie? The 2005 adaptation is loosely based on the book and offers a cautionary lesson about getting along with your siblings.

Find Zathura at your local library.

Dog Diaries: Secret Writings of the WOOF Society

by: Betsy Byars, Betsy Duffey and Laurie Myers , illustrated by: Erik Brooks - (Henry Holt, 2007) 64 pages.

These short stories show life through a dog’s eyes. Some have historical settings like ancient Egypt, and some explain quirky dog behavior. All are told simply and humorously, as a dog might, so they are easily understood by younger readers.

Perfect for: Kids who like historical fiction.

Find Dog Diaries: Secret Writings of the WOOF Society at your local library.

Great White Sharks

by: Sandra Markle - (Lerner Publishing Group, 2004) 40 pages.

The nonfiction aspect of this text appealed to many students, especially male students, because of the ferocious-looking shark on the cover and the many details on these predators of the deep, including their feasts on other ocean life.

Perfect for: Kids who like nonfiction and animals.

Find Great White Sharks at your local library.

Molly’s Pilgrim

by: Barbara Cohen , illustrated by: Daniel Mark Duffy - (Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books, 1983) 32 pages.

Molly’s Pilgrim is a heart-wrenching story that illustrates the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Molly, a Russian immigrant, finds herself in an American school. Instead of being welcomed as the new student in the class, she is treated as an outcast. Taunting and bullying are two themes explored in this book. The children in Molly’s class learn one of life’s most valuable lessons – pilgrims, like people, come in all denominations, and to this day they are still coming to America in hopes of finding freedom.

Find Molly’s Pilgrim at your local library.

Morning Girl

by: Michael Dorris - (Hyperion Books for Children, 1992) 74 pages.

Simple story, beautifully told, appeals to kids who like thoughtful character-based stories. This lyrical look at pre-Columbian Taino culture stresses the bonds of family, and behavioral changes involved in growing up, and raises the issue of culture differences in a powerful way.

Find Morning Girl at your local library.

Samuel Eaton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Boy

by: Kate Waters , illustrated by: Russ Kendall - (Scholastic, 1993) 40 pages.

Samuel Eaton’s Day, one of the author’s trilogy of books about the Pilgrims, transports the reader back to life during Pilgrim times. Samuel shares the excitement and the hard work that is involved with his first harvest. Samuel quickly discovers how difficult the harvest can be. Though exhausted from the day’s work, Samuel learns a valuable lesson about perseverance and the pride that comes from working together as a family.

Find Samuel Eaton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Boy at your local library.

Sarah Morton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Girl

by: Kate Waters , illustrated by: Russ Kendall - (Scholastic, 1989) 32 pages.

Sarah Morton’s Day is an excellent book about a day in the life of a Pilgrim girl and another book in Kate Water’s Pilgrim trilogy. The story is set in the year 1627. Told in the first person, Sarah takes young readers on a historic field trip back in time. Photographs in the book were taken at the Plymouth Museum, which is a replica of the 1627 settlement. The historic backdrop and the words of 9-year-old Sarah invite children of all ages to experience the Pilgrim way of life. Colonial dress, food, chores, family relations, friendships, religion and play are all part of Sarah’s day.

Find Sarah Morton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Girl at your local library.

Traveling Man: The Journey of Ibn Batutta 1325-1354

by: James Rutherford - (Houghton Mifflin, 2001) 40 pages.

How better to involve your child in geography, history and the art of picture books than through the pages of a masterfully told story about one of the world’s most famous travelers? Ibn Batutta’s journey represents one of the first travel diaries we have; author/artist Rutherford takes young readers along on this trip through space and time.

Find Traveling Man: The Journey of Ibn Batutta 1325-1354 at your local library.

Freddy the Detective

by: Walter R. Brooks , illustrated by: Kurt Wiese - (Alfred A. Knopf, 1932) 272 pages.

Originally published in 1932, Freddy the Detective is an overlooked classic. Freddy is a pig who finds his true calling when he finds a copy of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes in the barn one day. The witty and still very fresh vocabulary in which Freddy expresses himself is just delightful!

Perfect for: Kids who like mysteries.

Find Freddy the Detective at your local library.

Lizard Music

by: Daniel Manus Pinkwater - (Dodd, Mead, 1976) 144 pages.

Eleven-year-old Victor is up way past bedtime when he sees something very unusual on television: a band of giant lizards performing wild music! Night after night, Victor watches this same strange yet addictive show…that apparently doesn’t even exist.

Find Lizard Music at your local library.

Shredderman: Secret Identity

by: Wendelin Van Draanen , illustrated by: Brian Briggs - (Random House, 2004) 144 pages.

Nolan is tired of Bubba Bixby’s bullying! When the kids receive an assignment to create a newspaper expose, Nolan thinks that this is the perfect chance to truly expose Bubba. After gathering some very compromising information, Nolan creates shredderman.com, a Web site that will shield his identity while fighting back against Bubba’s tyranny.

Find Shredderman: Secret Identity at your local library.

The Case of the Sneaky Snowman

by: Carolyn Keene , illustrated by: Macky Pamintuan - (Aladdin, 2006) 96 pages.

Nancy Drew continues to march into the 21st century with its ubiquitously pen-named writer, Carolyn Keene. In this fifth book in the new Nancy series, “Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew,” a mystery unfolds in a wintry setting. After pretending to read her hot chocolate marshmallows to predict the future, Nancy’s friend Deirdre is surprised when her predictions begin to come true! Classic Nancy Drew sleuthing ensues and makes for a perfect, cozy winter’s night read.

Find The Case of the Sneaky Snowman at your local library.

Jan Brett’s Christmas Treasury

by: Jan Brett - (Putnam Juvenile, 2001) 256 pages.

This beautiful Jan Brett collection features some of her best winter and Christmas stories. Some of the titles included in the treasury are “The Mitten” and “Christmas Trolls.” Jan Brett’s signature illustrations adorn each story, filling it with bright, festive colors.

Perfect for: Kids who like holidays.

Find Jan Brett’s Christmas Treasury at your local library.

Latkes, Latkes, Good to Eat: A Chanukah Story

by: Naomi Howland - (Clarion Books, 1999) 32 pages.

Sadie’s kindness is rewarded when an old woman gives her a magical frying pan. When magic words are spoken, the pan fills with delicious latkes. Unfortunately, trouble occurs when Sadie leaves the pan in the hands of her younger brothers.

Find Latkes, Latkes, Good to Eat: A Chanukah Story at your local library.

Winter of the Ice Wizard

by: Mary Pope Osborne - (Random House, 2004) 128 pages.

If you are a fan of the Magic Tree House series, you are sure to love Mary Pope Osborne’s next adventure into the magical frozen land of the Ice Wizard. Jack and Annie are summoned by their friends from Camelot — Teddy and Kathleen — to help solve the mystery of the disappearance of Merlin and Morgan Le Fay. The team is equipped with only two things to help them: a mysterious rhyme from the Ice Wizard and a magical rope. Will they find Merlin and Morgan Le Fay? Are you brave enough to travel along?

Find Winter of the Ice Wizard at your local library.

Babymouse: Camp Babymouse

by: Jennifer L. Holm & Matthew Holm - (Random House, 2007) 96 pages.

The hook: The sixth installment of the Babymouse series finds our heroine at summer camp. She doesn’t like the great outdoors, but that fact shouldn’t get in the way of her having fun, right? Babymouse has her usual daydreams of how she’ll be the best camper around, but all she finds is trouble. Babymouse’s cabin-mates, the Buttercups, soon become frustrated with her shenanigans, as she racks up nothing but demerits for her team. The illustrations are as fun and humorous as ever, in the familiar black, white and pink. Graphic novels are incredibly popular with tweens and teens, so it follows that younger kids want them as well. And those for the very young — especially for young girls — are few and far between, but gaining a foothold. Here is a well-established series that fills that void with a spirited, likable, adventurous character.

Perfect for: Kids who like humor stories.

Find our favorites at your local library: Camp Babymouse , Queen of the World , Puppy Love , The Musical .

Danny: The Champion of the World

by: Roald Dahl , illustrated by: Quentin Blake - (Knopf/Random House, 1975) 224 pages.

Kids who loved the recent movie version of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will surely agree that Danny: Champion of the World is fabulous! Danny is a boy who has a great life with his father. Danny thinks he knows everything there is to know about his dad, until one day he learns about his father’s secret life. Danny’s dad is a poacher. If you want to know what a poacher does, and you want to laugh your way through Danny and his father’s dealings with a bad neighbor and pheasants, you must devour this hilarious book.

Find Danny: The Champion of the World at your local library.

Doctor De Soto

by: William Steig - (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1990) 32 pages.

A very cheerful story about a mouse-dentist who treats mammals bigger than himself, wearing rubbers to keep his feet dry when he’s in their mouths. Steig’s cartoony color illustrations make up the bulk of the book, and they are nothing short of urbane and funny. The climax comes when a dapperly dressed but hungry fox comes for a new gold tooth, and the quick-witted dentist saves himself from ingestion by means of his professional skills. 32 pages.

Find Doctor De Soto at your local library.

Runny Babbit: A Billy Sook

by: Shel Silverstein - (HarperCollins Children's Books, 2005) 96 pages.

Nonsensical word play will entice readers to try reading this poetry aloud. A simple switch in the beginning letters of certain words makes language fun and the resulting sounds smile-crackingly funny.

Find Runny Babbit: A Billy Sook at your local library.

Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger

by: Louis Sachar - (Morrow Junior Books, 1995) 169 pages.

Surely, Wayside School was already strange enough. The builders built a 30-story school sideways with the rooms piled one on top of another – except for the 19th floor where Miss Zarves teaches class. There is no 19th floor, and there is no Miss Zarves. Nevertheless, there is a 13th floor, where nice Mrs. Jewls presides over her eccentric pupils. Mrs. Jewls, however, takes a maternity leave. Before she returns with her little stranger, Wayside School gets a little stranger. While reading this ridiculously funny book, children will not only be laughing, they will be learning.

Find Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger at your local library.

The Worst Band in the Universe

by: Graeme Base - (Harry N. Abrams, 1999) 48 pages.

Alien fantasies come and go, but this one has focus. Base has created a universe where music, or the lack thereof, separates the planets and gives them their distinct personalities. It’s all about freedom of musical expression, as Sprocc, a young Splingtwanger-player, enters the annual competition for Worst Band in the Universe, a true award of honor. Base’s rhyming verse is delicious fun, and there is the added bonus of a CD of intergalactic songs, composed and performed by the author himself. This is a gift of cosmic proportions and hours of fun.

Find The Worst Band in the Universe at your local library.

The Dog That Stole Home

by: Matt Christopher - (Little, Brown, 1996) 42 pages.

Mike owes his success in baseball to his advisor, his dog Harry. It turns out that Harry is a great base coach. Sports-minded children will love this book as well as The Dog That Pitched a No-Hitter and The Dog That Stole Football Plays and more by the same author.

Perfect for: Kids who like sports.

Find The Dog That Stole Home at your local library.

Girl Wonder: A Baseball Story in Nine Innings

by: Deborah Hopkinson , illustrated by: Terry Widener - (Atheneum, 2003) 40 pages.

This nine-part story was inspired by the life of Alta Weiss, a girl who pitched for a semi-pro men’s baseball team in 1907. Alta has a killer fastball and a hot glove that earn her the nickname “Girl Wonder.” When Alta finishes her pitching career she heads to medical school, the only woman in her graduating class. A chronology of the highlights of women in baseball concludes the book. It only took 108 years and a lawsuit for girls to get to play Little League and Hopkinson honors all the women along the way who insisted that a woman’s place was on the field.

Find Girl Wonder: A Baseball Story in Nine Innings at your local library.

Yang the Youngest and His Terrible Ear

by: Lensey Namioka - (Joy Street Books, 1992) 144 pages.

Yingtao is the only one in his family with no musical talent. His father, however, insists that he continues to play the violin. How will he survive daily music lessons and recitals when all he really wants to do is play baseball, his true, natural talent?

Perfect for: Kids who like music.

Find Yang the Youngest and His Terrible Ear at your local library.

Are We There Yet?

by: Alison Lester - (Kane/Miller Book Publishers, 2005) 32 pages.

Alison Lester, an Australian-born author and illustrator, has written a lovely introduction to Australia for young readers. Through the eyes of 8-year-old Grace, we tag along for a six-month journey around Australia with her family.

Perfect for: Kids who like to learn about cultures.

Find Are We There Yet? at your local library.

Because of Winn-Dixie

by: Kate DiCamillo - (Candlewick, 2000) 182 pages.

The hook: Because of a hysterical encounter with Winn-Dixie, a stray but lovable dog, India Opal’s life changes forever. Opal is forced to deal with the absence of her mother and a father who is absorbed in his work. One day she stumbles upon a stray dog in the Winn-Dixie grocery and it’s love at first sight. Opal adopts the dog and he helps her make friends with people that the town-folks have labeled as strange and different. This is a beautiful story about friendship, forgiveness, and tolerance.

Want to see the movie? Check out the family-friendly 2005 adaptation.

Find Because of Winn-Dixie at your local library.

The Conquerors

by: David McKee - (Handprint Books, 2004) 32 pages.

Imagine an army that is treated so well by the country it invades that it loses its will to conquer. This one deserves a place alongside Seuss’s The Butter Battle Book. It is the kind of well told story that parents can refer back to during difficult conversations for years. The artwork is warm and subtle and the message is timeless: Love is always more fun than war.

Find The Conquerors at your local library.

Dare to Dream!

by: Carl Sommer , illustrated by: Jorge Martinez, Greg Budwine, and Kennon James - (Advance Publishing, 2007) 48 pages.

By listening to stories told by his father and grandparents, a young boy learns how choices can lead to overcoming adversity. The lives of Abraham Lincoln, George Washington Carver, Ben Franklin and Helen Keller are highlighted.

Find Dare to Dream! at your local library.

Dream: A Tale of Wonder, Wisdom & Wishes

by: Susan V. Bosak - (TCP Press, 2004) 40 pages.

Children are whisked away on a vibrant journey of hopes and dreams. The book’s message, to embrace your dreams, is told through poetic verse and the beautiful artwork of 15 celebrated illustrators.

Find Dream: A Tale of Wonder, Wisdom & Wishes at your local library.

The Golden Dream of Carlo Chuchio

by: Lloyd Alexander - (Henry Holt & Company, 2007) 306 pages.

This book is the author’s last, a rousing, delightful adventure. There’s a fair amount of violence here, some rather brutal, though none graphically described. Many deaths occur by a variety of weapons and methods, and a major character is beaten unconscious. Families can talk about the popular literary theme of setting out into the world to find one’s fortune. Do people really do that? Do you expect to one day? Is there a modern equivalent that, perhaps, involves less violence?

Find The Golden Dream of Carlo Chuchio at your local library.

Hachiko Waits

by: Leslea Newman , illustrated by: Machiyo Kodaira - (Henry Holt, 2004) 96 pages.

This Japanese story of a dog whose devotion inspired a nation is an ideal bridge from picture books to chapter books. Short illustrated chapters, author’s notes, and a glossary honor a faithful Akita that met the commuter train from Shibuya Station every afternoon for 10 years, patiently waiting for a master who never returned. Newman’s touching story can’t be read or heard without tears and a true understanding of the word ‘loyalty’.

Find Hachiko Waits at your local library.

Humphrey the Lost Whale: A True Story

by: Wendy Tokuda & Richard Hall , illustrated by: Hanako Wakiyama - (Heian International, 1986) 32 pages.

This is based on the journey of a California humpback whale, “wrong way” Humphrey, who finds his way back to the sea with the help of many people.

Find Humphrey the Lost Whale: A True Story at your local library.

Judy Moody Was in a Mood

by: Megan McDonald - (Candlewick, 2000) 176 pages.

Yes, Judy is a third-grade girl but she is very much the tomboy and boys love this series as much as girls. The series does a great job of captivating unmotivated readers who are making the transition into chapter books. Children will relate to Judy’s constant dilemmas and will laugh their way through the book as Judy comes up with the most intriguing solutions to problems such as having to sit next to a kid who eats paste and a toad that pees on her!

Find our favorites at your local library: Judy Moody Was in a Mood , Judy Moody Gets Famous! , Judy Moody Saves the World!

The Penguin’s Peril: Taylor-Made Tales #4

by: Ellen Miles - (Scholastic, 2007) 110 pages.

Jason’s teacher, Mr. Taylor, loves a challenge. Give him five objects and he’ll work them all into a story of his own creation. When Jason gives Mr. Taylor the “ultimate challenge” list — a penguin, a polar bear, a cactus, quicksand and a baseball — he enthralls the class with an arctic adventure. Meanwhile, in Jason’s day-to-day life, he has to take flak from his classmates when they find out that he loves to cook. And he just can’t seem to convince his chef dad to let him help out at the family restaurant. Both stories end happily — especially when Jason’s dad and classmates get a taste of his signature sandwich, the Amazin’ Jason. The Penguin’s Peril is a testament to the power of storytelling and will inspire young readers to be true to themselves.

Perfect for: Kids who like adventure stories.

Find The Penguin’s Peril: Taylor-Made Tales #4 at your local library.

Ramona the Pest

by: Beverly Cleary , illustrated by: Tracy Dockray - (William Morrow and Company, 1968) 208 pages.

Ramona the Pest is one of Beverly Cleary’s most iconic of her classic stories about the feisty Ramona. Children are sure to love hearing about Ramona’s troubles in Miss Binney’s kindergarten. Ramona fans will also enjoy Beezus and Ramona and Ramona Quimby, Age 8 .

Perfect for: Inventive kids with creative ideas to cure boredom and update old rules.

Find Ramona the Pest at your local library.

Letters from Rapunzel

by: Sara Lewis Holmes - (HarperCollins, 2007) 184 pages.

This is a bittersweet and uplifting story of a young girl coping with the fact that her father is hospitalized for clinical depression. “Rapunzel” (you don’t learn her real name until the end of the book) comes home one day to find the lights off and her father curled up in his favorite red chair, crying. Soon he’s in a mental institution and her mother refuses to talk about it. By chance, she finds a letter in her father’s chair addressed to a post office box. She writes to this post office box, hoping that the person her father was writing to will help her understand what is happening. Told through her letters, this novel is poignant and emotionally raw. “Rapunzel” is the type of character you immediately bring into your heart. Her humor, courage and intelligence will resonate with the reader.

Find Letters from Rapunzel at your local library.

by: Jerry Spinelli - (Joanna Cotler Books, 2002) 218 pages.

It’s moving, funny, lyrical and has powerful appeal. There is so much to discuss here that a family, or a class, could spend days talking it over, which is why it is already a favorite with discussion groups. Two of the biggest topics are what it means to be human and what it means to grow up. Try combining it with a movie about growing up, such as Wide Awake , or one about not growing up, such as Peter Pan .

Find Loser at your local library.

Paint the Wind

by: Pam Munoz Ryan - (Scholastic Press, 2007) 327 pages.

Uniquely told by weaving together the adventures of 11-year-old Maya with those of Artemisia, a wild horse in the remote Wyoming wilderness, this is a beautiful coming-of-age story about relationships and making tough decisions. With the death of her grandmother, Maya is thrust into a totally foreign lifestyle. Accustomed to a rigid and formal urban household, Maya suddenly finds herself on a rural ranch surrounded by loving and caring people. Artemisia, who runs in a herd near Maya’s new home, is also forced into a new situation when a horse round-up separates her from the rest of her herd. Discovering one another, the two develop a bond that will be tested under severe conditions. The addition of a glossary and a list of websites dealing with the subject of wild horses in America make this a must-read for any horse lover.

Perfect for: Kids who love horses.

Find Paint the Wind at your local library.

Please Write in This Book

by: Mary Amato , illustrated by: Eric Brace - (Holiday House, 2006) 97 pages.

Ms. Wurtz hides a book in the writer’s corner, inviting her students to write on its blank pages. Conversations, pictures, charts and stories find their way into it.

Find Please Write in This Book at your local library.

The Quiltmaker’s Gift

by: Jeff Brumbeau , illustrated by: Gail de Marcken - (Scholastic Press, 2000) 56 pages.

This beautifully written and illustrated book will appeal to a wide range of ages. Its story of materialism verses charity addresses the value of giving and encourages children to reach out to help others. The story of a greedy king and the lesson he learns helps children get perspective on what is important.

Find The Quiltmaker’s Gift at your local library.

The Quiltmaker’s Journey

by: Jeff Brumbeau , illustrated by: Gail de Marcken - (Orchard Books, 2005) 56 pages.

A prequel to The Quiltmaker’s Gift. The vivid, intricately designed watercolor illustrations add drama and life to the story of a young wealthy child who, one night, steps out of a walled city to find the world beyond. She becomes a quiltmaker after her elders reject her idea of helping the needy. Another poignant message for children of all ages.

Find The Quiltmaker’s Journey at your local library.

The Rag Coat

by: Lauren Mills - (Little, Brown Young Readers, 1991) 32 pages.

This is a heartwarming story of how a community comes together to help Minna, a little girl who so badly wants to attend school, but has no coat. The story deals with death and poverty in a real and positive way with a loving solution. It’s a sweet, sober tale about love and goodwill.

Find The Rag Coat at your local library.

Thunder Rose

by: Jerdine Nolen , illustrated by: Kadir Nelson - (Harcourt Brace, 2003) 32 pages.

Nolen and Nelson give us a spunky cowgirl heroine of the West who names herself Thunder Rose. Rose is resourceful and fearless, and no challenge defeats her, not stampeding cattle, drought, tornadoes, hooligans nor desperadoes. With a sweet disposition, sassy pigtails and a ‘can do’ attitude, Rose’s story stretches both the imagination and the vocabulary.

Find Thunder Rose at your local library.

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-six Women Who Changed the World

by: Cynthia Chin-Lee , illustrated by: Megan Halsey and Sean Addy - (Charlesbridge Publishing, 2005) 32 pages.

The author creates an alphabet book using the first names of the 26 women who have made impressive contributions to the world. The women came from different ethnic groups and countries.

Perfect for: Kids who like to read about real people.

Find Amelia to Zora: Twenty-six Women Who Changed the World at your local library.

Author: A True Story

by: Helen Lester - (Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books, 1997) 32 pages.

Author Helen Lester writes a humorous tale about her life from age three to adulthood. She describes how she became a writer, citing her achievements and challenges, including overcoming dyslexia, along the way. This cheerful book will inspire the writer within your child.

Find Author: A True Story at your local library.

Bill Peet: An Autobiography

by: Bill Peet - (Houghton Mifflin Children's Books, 1989) 189 pages.

Bill Peet, a former Disney illustrator, shares his life story in this book. Written as a simple children’s story, this irresistible autobiography boasts lots of funny drawings, including favorite Disney characters.

Find Bill Peet: An Autobiography at your local library.

Clean Sea: Story of Rachel Carson

by: Carol Hilgartner Schlank and Barbara Metzger , illustrated by: David Katz - (Cascade Pass, 1995) 38 pages.

Rachel Carson has long been considered the original environmentalist. Her publication of Silent Spring in the 1960s was the impetus for President Kennedy to call for a scientific study of the questions she raised about the environment. Here now we have an accessible, empowering biography of this unsung heroine for boys and girls that care about the environment. Included are several lesson plans, as well as recommended reading on steps to save the environment. A DVD entitled Cartoon Sea stresses the importance of keeping oceans free from pollution.

Find Clean Sea: Story of Rachel Carson at your local library.

Houdini: World’s Greatest Mystery Man and Escape King

by: Kathleen Krull , illustrated by: Eric Velasquez - (Walker and Company, 2005) 28 pages.

In this picture book biography of the magician Harry Houdini (born Erik Weiss), the author emphasizes the qualities of perseverance, dedication and a commitment to self-improvement that made Houdini so successful. Even as a young boy he was performing a trapeze act in his backyard for paying audiences, billing himself as “Prince of the Air.” Interspersed throughout the book are presentations of his most famous and amazing performances, narrated by a costumed master of ceremonies with the readers cast as audience members. This would be the perfect book for kids fascinated by all things magical.

Find Houdini: World’s Greatest Mystery Man and Escape King at your local library.

Leonardo da Vinci

by: Diane Stanley - (Morrow Junior Books, 1996) 44 pages.

The picture-book format and outstanding illustrations make it highly appealing for children. The text is friendly and loaded with interesting details about the subject.

Find Leonardo da Vinci at your local library.

Reaching for the Moon

by: Buzz Aldrin , illustrated by: Wendell Minor - (HarperCollins, 2005) 40 pages.

Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, writes this autobiographical work as page-long vignettes of highlights from his life. He writes about how he got his unusual nickname (from his sister), his favorite movie hero (the Lone Ranger), how he almost drowned one summer, his military life, and his training and missions as an astronaut. The beautiful paintings that illustrate the book add to the appeal, especially the images of Aldrin’s space flights. Aldrin closes his book with an inspirational message to young readers: “If you set your sights high, you may accomplish more than you ever dreamed was possible.” This would be the perfect choice for aspiring young astronauts.

Find Reaching for the Moon at your local library.

So You Want to Be an Explorer?

by: Judith St. George , illustrated by: David Small - (Philomel, 2005) 56 pages.

From Buzz Aldrin to Charles Yeager, Caldecott award winners Judith St. George and David Small take us on a fun romp through the excellent discoveries (and great mishaps) of the great and infamous explorers of the world.

Find So You Want to Be an Explorer? at your local library.

The Tree of Life: A Book Depicting the Life of Charles Darwin: Naturalist, Geologist & Thinker

by: Peter Sis - (Farrar Straus & Giroux, 2003) 32 pages.

For just the right child between the ages of 8 and 12 this book will be a treasure trove, but many children may need a bit of parental help to make sense of the book’s design and give a context for the bountiful amount of information. Some of the exquisitely drawn illustrations are small and subtle in meaning, and the typeface used in the illustrations could be challenging for young readers as well. The subject matter of the biography will be of interest to adult as well as child readers, and this book might best be enjoyed in a joint first reading.

Find The Tree of Life: A Book Depicting the Life of Charles Darwin: Naturalist, Geologist & Thinker at your local library.

Where Was Patrick Henry on the 29th of May?

by: Jean Fritz , illustrated by: Margot Tomes - (Penguin Putnam, 1975) 48 pages.

This is a fast-paced account of one of America’s most influential statesmen. Patrick Henry’s childhood and career are described in simple sentences, using a clever plot device (the date in the title); both the black-and-white and color illustrations are very simple.

Find Where Was Patrick Henry on the 29th of May? at your local library.

Who Was Harry Houdini?

by: Tui Sutherland , illustrated by: John O'Brien - (Grosset & Dunlap, 2002) 112 pages.

This is an excellent series of biographies and includes books on Benjamin Franklin, Harriet Tubman and Leonardo da Vinci. Written in a fun, conversational style that grabs even the most reluctant reader!

Find Who Was Harry Houdini? at your local library.

Ice-Cream Cones for Sale

by: Elaine Greenstein - (Arthur A. Levine Books, 2003) 32 pages.

In spring our thoughts turn to flowers, baseball, and ICE CREAM! With winter’s chill a memory, the lines at the local Dairy Queen appear over night and everyone is ready for that first, delicious chocolate-dipped ice cream cone. In an excellent informational book, Greenstein uses careful research to answer the question, “Who was that sainted person who invented the ice cream cone?” We know ice cream cones first appeared nationally at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904. But there were over fifty ice cream sellers and dozens of waffle makers, so who put the two together? Five men and one woman claim they were the first to combine tasty waffles, shaped into a cone, with yummy ice cream. But the frozen delight honor goes to Italo Marchiony, an Italian immigrant who was selling ice cream cones from a push cart on the streets of New York in 1895. No one knows for sure how he came up with the idea of an edible cone to replace glass dishes, but it’s a mystery worth pondering, while licking that perfect ice cream cone, of course.

Find Ice-Cream Cones for Sale at your local library.

So You Want to Be President?

by: Judith St. George , illustrated by: David Small - (Philomel Books, 2000) 56 pages.

Books about the presidents are usually boring, but not this one. This is a lighthearted look at the presidency, including the ages, looks, backgrounds, occupations, pets, favorite sports and personalities of the men who’ve lived in the White House. St. George outlines the positive points about being president (big house with its own swimming pool, bowling alley and movie theater) and negative points (having to dress up, never get to go anywhere alone and lots of homework). David Small’s cartoon-style illustrations add to the fun. The book concludes with the oath of office, and there is an appended list of brief biographical sketches of each of the presidents. This would be a timely read with the presidential race that’s already beginning.

Perfect for: Kids who like history.

Find So You Want to Be President? at your local library.

What If You Met a Pirate?

by: Jan Adkins - (Roaring Brook Press, 2004) 32 pages.

Every pirate myth and fact is chronicled in detail in Adkins’ meticulously illustrated informational text. Real pirates weren’t flashy dressers, seldom carried pistols, swords, or cutlasses, did wear earrings, and were experts with a needle and thread. Furthermore, rats and lice and the threat of a bath were greater enemies than the British Navy. Readers will learn about grog, hardtack, buccaneers, the dead man’s chest, and who Blackbeard was in this outstanding book that really is a treasure.

Find What If You Met a Pirate? at your local library.

Easy to Be Green: Simple Activities You Can Do to Save the Earth

by: Ellie O'Ryan , illustrated by: Ivanke & Lola - (Simon Scribbles, 2009) 32 pages.

What can kids do to protect the environment? A lot! Easy to Be Green is filled with simple eco-friendly tips and activities children can try at home. A perfect way to make the concept of green living accessible and fun.

Perfect for: Kids who like science and nature.

Find Easy to Be Green: Simple Activities You Can Do to Save the Earth at your local library.

Garbage and Recycling (Young Discoverers: Environmental Facts and Experiments)

by: Rosie Harlow and Sally Morgan - (Kingfisher, 1995) 32 pages.

Part of Kingfisher’s wonderful Young Discoverers series, Garbage and Recycling illustrates the difference between biodegradable and nonbiodegradable garbage. Explanations of how glass, metal and wool can be easily recycled; “how can I help?” sections; and lots of tips will inspire your child to be a young environmentalist who wants to recycle at home.

Find Garbage and Recycling (Young Discoverers: Environmental Facts and Experiments) at your local library.

Living Color

by: Steve Jenkins - (Houghton Mifflin, 2007) 32 pages.

This book examines how the amazing range of colors in the animal world works to help animals survive in their natural habitats. Animals use color to attract a mate, lure prey, camouflage themselves or startle enemies. Organized by colors, the book is illustrated by Jenkins’ signature torn- and cut-paper illustrations of each animal, with a short paragraph explaining how color works for that species. Additional information about animal coloration and the particular species pictured is found at the end of the book. This book is a visual treat, as well as fascinating reading for young naturalists.

Find Living Color at your local library.

Polar Bears and the Arctic (Magic Tree House Research Guides)

by: Mary Pope Osborne - (Random House, 2007) 119 pages.

In this nonfiction companion to Polar Bears Past Bedtime, the Magic Tree House characters Jack and Annie take their readers on a chilly journey to the Arctic as they find out what it’s really like to live there. The familiar twosome cover a lot of ground – landscape, animals, the lives and cultures of native people, and the effects of global warming. The style — narrative with a healthy smattering of illustrations, photos and weird facts — will easily hold a young reader’s attention.

Find Polar Bears and the Arctic (Magic Tree House Research Guides) at your local library.

by: Seymour Simon - (Morrow Junior Books, 1989) 32 pages.

Brilliant full-color photographs of thunderstorms, hailstorms, tornadoes and hurricanes accompany the factual text of this beautiful informational book. Simon carefully explains how storms form and describes the havoc they wreak on humans who are still fascinated with the power of weather. Simon includes not only what we do know, but also what we don’t, in a book that sheds light on all those mysterious symbols, diagrams and maps on the weather channel.

Find Storms at your local library.

365 Ways to Live Green for Kids: Saving the Environment at Home, School, or at Play — Every Day!

by: Sheri Amsel - (Adams Media, 2009) 224 pages.

As more parents realize the importance of teaching their children about green living, the need for everyday, eco-friendly lessons grows. With activities for home and school and during playtime, 365 Ways shows how easy and fun it is to prepare your kids for a better future.

Find 365 Ways to Live Green for Kids: Saving the Environment at Home, School, or at Play — Every Day! at your local library.

The Story of Kwanzaa

by: Donna L. Washington , illustrated by: Stephen Taylor - (HarperTrophy, 1997) 40 pages.

Learn about the origins of Kwanzaa. The seven principles or beliefs of the holiday are explained in detail and accompanied by lovely illustrations. Recipes and crafts ideas are also included.

Find The Story of Kwanzaa at your local library.

Hey Batta Batta Swing! The Wild Old Days of Baseball

by: Sally Cook and James Charlton , illustrated by: Ross MacDonald - (M.K. McElderry Books, 2007) 48 pages.

Who can resist the title of this book? Certainly not young baseball fans who will delight in this comical history of the great American pastime. Readers learn tantalizing tidbits about the history of the game, like the facts that in the early days teams had no specific uniforms and that base running was once a contact sport. The amusing illustrations add to the fun, and colorful baseball slang is defined in page margins.

Find Hey Batta Batta Swing! The Wild Old Days of Baseball at your local library.

Ultimate Chess

by: Jon Tremaine - (Scholastic Inc., 2006) 48 pages.

Opening this 8-by-8-inch book reveals a magnetic chess board on the inside back cover, so all the lessons can be played as they’re read. Forty-seven spiral-bound pages contain valuable lessons: names and images of the playing pieces, the set-up, how each piece moves, castling, how a pawn becomes a queen, check, checkmate, notation (so you can keep track of both players’ moves), relative strength of the pieces, classic game openings, attacks and defenses. Finally all the lessons are put to use in the playing of two complete games. The first is a 20-move game with comments on the reasons for certain moves; next is the analysis of an actual 45-turn game played by two grand masters.

Perfect for: Kids who like sports and games.

Find Ultimate Chess at your local library.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

by: Roald Dahl - (A.A. Knopf, 1964) 180 pages.

The hook: Willie Wonka’s chocolate factory invites five lucky lottery winners to tour the facility and observe its amazing secrets. Four of the visiting children are nasty brats who will get exactly what they deserve. Only Charlie is worthy. Wild, hysterical, irreverent but ethical — it’s a classic modern fable that ridicules greed.

Want to see the movie? Kids may be more drawn to the chaotic, colorful 2005 adaptation starring Johnny Depp, but the original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971), which was written by Dahl himself, is a gentler take that still stands up today.

Find  Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at your local library.

The Nature Treasury: A First Look at the Natural World

by: Lizann Flatt - (Owlkids Books, 2005) 48 pages.

Answering your youngster’s questions about plants, animals, water, and just about anything else having to do with nature is easy with this reference book in hand. Broken up into 22 sections, The Nature Treasury covers topics like “How animals grow,” “Soil up close,” and “What animals eat.” With double-page spreads depicting ecosystems ranging from savannas to tundras, this book will have kids searching the panoramas for the animals that live there. Large labeled ovals with the animals superimposed on them act as guides, so children can scan the scenes to find where the sea stars are hiding in the coral reef or the sidewinder in the desert. Children will be enchanted by the lush illustrations.

Perfect for: Kids who are curious — and parents who don’t know all the answers!

Find The Nature Treasury: A First Look at the Natural World at your local library.

The Magician’s Elephant

by: Kate DiCamillo , illustrated by: Yoko Tanaka - (Candlewick Press, 2009) 224 pages.

Gargoyles, illusionists, an elephant that falls from the sky when a magician’s trick fails, and a 10-year-old orphan comprise the cast of characters for Kate DiCamillo’s novel. Full of magical events and narrated in an equally captivating voice, this tale of hope, darkness, and illusion is brought to life by Yoko Tanaka’s haunting black-and-white artwork. All in all, it would be hard to go wrong with this book. Find The Magician’s Elephant at your local library.

by: Lloyd Alexander - (Puffin, 1963) 240 pages.

In Time Cat , a young boy discovers that his cat, instead of having nine lives, has the ability to travel through time nine times. Thus begins their adventures. One parent writes, “My then-fourth-grade son loved Time Cat. He’s not a reader but couldn’t put this book down.” Find Time Cat at your local library.

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs

by: Judi Barrett , illustrated by: Ron Barrett - (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 1978) 32 pages.

Residents of the remarkable town of Chewandswallow don’t have normal weather like rain, wind, and snow. Instead they get food falling from the sky three times a day, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It might be mashed potatoes, soup, pancakes, or hamburgers! But when the portions start getting larger, the town can’t keep up with the flood of food and something has to be done. Get ready to giggle at the absurd text and detailed illustrations. This 1978 story is a fun read-aloud for all ages and a good challenge for young readers.

Want to see the movie? The 2009 animated film takes the book’s idea of food-filled weather and runs with it.

Perfect for: Kids with a silly sense of humor.

Find Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs at your local library.

Hotel for Dogs

by: Lois Duncan - (Scholastic, 2008) 178 pages.

A whimsical tale about a brother and sister who, out of their love for dogs, turn an abandoned house into a hotel for strays. Find Hotel for Dogs at your local library.

The Stories Julian Tells

by: Ann Cameron - (Random House, 1981) 80 pages.

Julian loves to make up tall tales and make his little brother, Huey, believe them. Each chapter in this wonderful early-reader’s chapter book is an individual story and makes for a great introduction to the concept of short stories in general. The tales are imaginative, fun and a great depiction of a loving family in everyday situations. The bite-size length of the chapters keeps the book from feeling overwhelming for a young reader.

Perfect for: Kids who like classics.

Find The Stories Julian Tells at your local library.

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Best Books for 3rd Graders: Teacher Recommended

We’ve done the work and have compiled a list of teacher-recommended books perfect for this 3rd grade. This list covers a wide range of classics for young learners and are both age appropriate yet challenging. From the magical world of Harry Potter to the heartwarming tale of Wonder, we have something for every type of reader.

These books offer adventure, mystery, and fun-filled escapades to keep your child engaged and entertained. So, grab a cozy blanket and a cup of hot cocoa and prepare for quality reading time with your little one!

Exploring the World of Contemporary Books for 3rd Graders

Reading is of course important for your students as it expands language skills, imagination, and cognitive abilities. The following books cover diverse themes and characters that engage young readers. Let’s get started:

Harry Potter series – Discover magic and character development

Harry Potter, an enchanting tale of a young wizard’s battle against evil, captivates children and adults. With relatable characters, compelling plotlines, and themes of courage, friendship, and perseverance, it sparks imagination and creativity in young readers. Teachers highly recommend it as a must-read for 3rd graders seeking adventure. Join Harry and his friends on their magical journey, where the magic of reading comes alive.

The Secret Keepers – Mystery adventure

‘The Secret Keepers’ is an enthralling mystery adventure book by Trenton Lee Stewart. It tells the story of Reuben, an 11-year-old who stumbles upon a watch capable of turning back time. The book captivates young readers with its complex characters, intricate plot, and fast-paced narrative.

Beyond entertainment, it imparts valuable lessons on trust, friendship, and courage, making it a prized addition to any classroom or home library. Teachers highly recommend ‘The Secret Keepers’ for its ability to cultivate critical thinking and foster creativity in 3rd graders.

Geronimo Stilton – Adventure storytelling

The ‘Geronimo Stilton series by Elisabetta Dami offers young readers fun and engaging adventures. Filled with problem-solving and teamwork, these books entertain and impart valuable life skills. The series is educational and entertaining, with elements like humor, vocabulary words, and historical facts.

Its popularity has led to spin-off series and merchandise, making it a hit among 3rd graders who enjoy animal tales, mysteries, and imaginative storytelling.

Wonder – Dealing with difficult personal issues

The bestselling book ‘Wonder’ tells the story of a boy with facial differences and his journey through school. Its message of kindness and empathy resonates with both 3rd graders and adults. ‘Wonder’ has been adapted into a successful film and graphic novel, encouraging readers to embrace differences and practice empathy daily. It is a great starting point for exploring bullying, friendship, and self-acceptance with 3rd graders.

The Puzzling World of Winston Breen – Problem solving book that promotes teamwork

‘The Puzzling World of Winston Breen’ presents an engaging mystery that challenges third graders to solve puzzles alongside the characters. Author Eric Berlin skillfully combines humor and suspense, making the story enjoyable for young readers.

This chapter book encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills and promotes teamwork and cooperation among the characters. With its intriguing storyline and interactive elements, ‘The Puzzling World of Winston Breen’ is a must-read for any 3rd grader who enjoys mysteries and puzzles.

Inside Out and Back Again – A captivating story

‘Inside Out and Back Again’ takes readers on a captivating journey as they follow a young girl’s voyage from Vietnam to Alabama. This thought-provoking book explores themes of identity, culture, and resilience in adversity.

Written in verse, it offers third graders a unique and engaging reading experience. With its multiple awards and accolades, including the National Book Award and the Newbery Honor, ‘Inside Out and Back Again’ is a must-read for young readers seeking an inspiring and captivating story that will stay with them long after the last page.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid – Relatable for children

‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ brings to life a middle schooler’s hilarious and relatable experiences. With engaging illustrations and a unique narrative style, this chapter book keeps young readers entertained from start to finish. It explores important themes like friendship, bullying, and family dynamics in an accessible way. With numerous sequels, this book series is a must-read for 3rd graders looking for delightful chaos and relatable characters.

The Unadoptables – Ridiculous escapades

‘The Unadoptables’ takes readers on an adventurous journey alongside five orphans as they escape from their cruel caretaker. Set in Amsterdam, the book immerses young readers in vivid descriptions of the city’s landmarks and culture. Through the story, children learn about the importance of friendship and perseverance. With its elements of mystery and adventure, ‘The Unadoptables’ is a captivating choice for young readers who love chapter books. Its relatable characters and uplifting theme make it a must-read for 3rd graders.

The Wild Robot – Technology meets adventure

In ‘The Wild Robot’ by Peter Brown, readers are taken on a captivating journey alongside a robot who finds herself stranded on an island. Through the adventures of this charming protagonist, the book explores themes of humanity, nature, and friendship. With beautiful storytelling and meaningful messages, Brown’s illustrations bring the story to life, making it accessible to young readers. This heartwarming tale has received numerous awards and is recommended for children who enjoy adventure, technology, and engaging stories.

Esperanza Rising – An inspiring story

In the captivating story of ‘Esperanza Rising,’ readers are taken on an inspiring journey alongside a young girl as she moves from Mexico to the United States. This thought-provoking novel explores essential themes such as immigration, family, and overcoming adversity. Author Pam Muñoz Ryan skillfully engages young readers with her accessible writing style. Additionally, ‘Esperanza Rising’ allows teachers to discuss cultural differences and empathy with their students. It is a must-read for any 3rd grader seeking inspiration and a thought-provoking story.

How to Eat Fried Worms – A story of perseverance

Published in 1973, ‘How to Eat Fried Worms continues to captivate young readers with its humorous and adventurous storyline. Following Billy’s bet to eat fifteen worms in fifteen days, the book explores themes of bravery, perseverance, and standing up for oneself. Kids can relate to the character’s struggles and triumphs as they navigate friendships and challenges. With over 14 million copies sold, this timeless classic is a must-read for third graders.

Freckle Juice by Judy Blume

In Judy Blume’s ‘Freckle Juice, readers are taken on a humorous journey that explores the universal desire to be someone else. The story follows Andrew as he becomes obsessed with getting freckles, leading to disastrous and hilarious consequences. With an engaging and relatable writing style, Blume teaches important lessons about self-acceptance and being content with who you are. ‘Freckle Juice’ is a must-read chapter book for 3rd graders, offering laughs and valuable insights.

Sideways Stories from Wayside School – Classic children’s literature

‘Sideways Stories from Wayside School’ is a whimsical and humorous short story collection that captivates young readers. With quirky characters and hilarious scenarios, the book keeps readers engaged from start to finish. This chapter book, written by Louis Sachar, features easy-to-read prose, making it perfect for third graders still developing their reading skills.

Beyond the laughs, the book also imparts valuable lessons about friendship, empathy, and problem-solving. A beloved classic in children’s literature, ‘Sideways Stories from Wayside School’ is a must-read for any 3rd grader.

Stuart Little by E.B. White

A timeless classic for 3rd graders and beyond, ‘Stuart Little’ takes readers on an enchanting journey through the bustling streets of New York City. The story revolves around Stuart, a small but brave mouse, as he embarks on thrilling adventures alongside his human family and animal friends. E.B. White’s charming and witty writing style makes it a perfect read-aloud in classroom settings. Children learn valuable lessons about kindness, bravery, and perseverance through Stuart’s escapades.

Fantastic Mr. Fox – Fun filled for young learners

‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’ is a beloved children’s book by the renowned author Roald Dahl. The story revolves around a clever fox who embarks on a thrilling adventure to outwit three notorious farmers. Filled with humor, excitement, and valuable life lessons, this whimsical tale is perfect for 3rd graders who deeply love animals and enjoy engaging storytelling. It serves as an excellent introduction to the works of Roald Dahl for young readers exploring his captivating world.

Maya and the Robot – An empowering tale

‘Maya and the Robot’ is a captivating book that centers around a young girl’s journey into the world of coding and building robots. This STEM-focused story encourages young readers, like third graders, to explore their interests and embrace the power of technology. With diverse characters and themes of friendship, perseverance, and creativity, ‘Maya and the Robot offers an empowering reading experience for elementary school students.

This book, written by Eve L. Ewing, has received acclaim for its engaging story and positive message, making it a must-read for any young reader.

Lola Levine Is Not Mean – Heartwarming and delightful

In the heartwarming story, ‘Lola Levine Is Not Mean,’ young readers will embark on a journey with Lola as she navigates the challenges of finding her place in the world. Author Monica Brown’s engaging writing captures the spirit of childhood adventure while addressing themes of identity, friendship, and cultural differences. With illustrations by Angela Dominguez bringing Lola’s world to life, this book is a delightful addition to any 3rd-grade reading list.

Mercy Watson to the Rescue – Award winning book

‘Mercy Watson to the Rescue’ by Kate DiCamillo is a humorous tale about a pig named Mercy and her exciting adventures. With colorful illustrations and engaging characters, this book captivates young readers. It’s a great chapter book for 3rd graders, with short chapters and simple vocabulary. Through Mercy’s story, children will learn essential themes of kindness, empathy, and problem-solving. This Newbery Medal-winning author has created a must-read for any young reader.

Anisa’s International Day – Inspiration and aspiring

The heartwarming story of ‘Anisa’s International Day’ encourages readers aged 7 to 9 to celebrate diversity and multiculturalism. The main character Anisa takes the initiative to create an international fair at her school where different cultures are showcased. Through this, the book promotes important values such as friendship, teamwork, and accepting differences. ‘Anisa’s International Day’ is a must-read for young readers, making it a great addition to any classroom or home library.

News from Me, Lucy McGee – Sad and touching

In ‘News from Me, Lucy McGee,’ a young girl navigates the challenges of her parent’s divorce. This heartfelt story explores themes of family, friendship, and discovering one’s voice in difficult situations. Mary Amato, the author, skillfully combines humor and emotion, creating an engaging and relatable tale. With its relatable characters and thoughtful narrative, this book is recommended for 3rd graders, offering a valuable resource for discussing divorce’s impact on children.

Dog Man: From the Creator of Captain Underpants – A fun graphic novel

The ‘Dog Man: From the Creator of Captain Underpants series is a thrilling graphic novel that captivates young readers with its humor, action-packed adventures, and relatable characters. Written and illustrated by Dav Pilkey, the creator of the famous Captain Underpants series, these books are specifically designed to engage kids and encourage reading.

With 10 books in the series, there’s plenty of content for third graders. Educators and parents alike have praised Dog Man for its positive impact on reading and literacy skills.

Bernice Buttman, Model Citizen – Riveting topics around social issues

‘Bernice Buttman, Model Citizen’ is a compelling book that follows the story of a resilient young girl from a challenging neighborhood who perseveres and aims to improve her life. This relatable tale explores essential themes such as friendship, empathy, and overcoming obstacles. Written by Niki Lenz, it has received acclaim for its humor and ability to connect with young readers.

This realistic fiction with strong characters is recommended for 3rd graders and can serve as a valuable resource for teachers to delve into discussions surrounding relevant social issues.

The Secret Garden – A timeless classic f

‘The Secret Garden’ by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a timeless classic for young readers. The book follows the journey of a young girl named Mary as she discovers a magical garden. The novel explores themes of friendship, forgiveness, and the power of nature.

‘The Secret Garden’ is a great way to introduce children to literary techniques like symbolism and foreshadowing. The book has been adapted into several films and stage productions, making it a multi-media experience for young readers.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland – Another must read classic

‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ takes readers on a whimsical and imaginative journey through a fantastical world. The book’s themes of identity, self-discovery, and imagination encourage critical thinking and creativity in 3rd graders. Written by Lewis Carroll, this classic tale introduces young readers to the works of a celebrated author from the Victorian era. ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ is highly recommended by teachers for its timeless appeal and ability to capture the hearts of young readers.

The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe – Became a popular movie

‘The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe’ by C.S. Lewis takes young readers on a magical and epic adventure into a fantasy world. This classic book has captivated children for decades and continues to inspire them today. It teaches valuable lessons about bravery, loyalty, and determination while offering a glimpse into a fantastical realm filled with mythical creatures and enchanting magic.

With its relatable characters and captivating storyline, ‘The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe’ is a must-read for any 3rd grader’s bookshelf.

Charlotte’s Web – Classic read on loss and love

‘The Endearing Tale of ‘Charlotte’s Web” is a heartwarming story that follows the unlikely friendship between Wilbur, a pig, and Charlotte, a spider. This book, written by E.B. White, has been cherished by readers since its publication in 1952. It teaches valuable lessons about friendship, loyalty, and selflessness and provides relatable characters and themes that resonate with young readers in the third grade. The enduring popularity of ‘Charlotte’s Web’ has led to its adaptations into movies and stage productions, cementing its place as a beloved classic in children’s literature.

Little House in the Big Woods – Charming tale of a bygone era

‘Little House in the Big Woods’ by Laura Ingalls Wilder takes readers on a journey back to the late 1800s, offering a glimpse into the simple and rustic rural life through the eyes of a young girl. With its focus on family values, self-sufficiency, and the charms of rural living, this classic chapter book captivates young readers with its relatable characters and enchanting storytelling. It also allows parents and teachers to explore historical events and cultural differences. Adventure, animals, and the great outdoors await in this must-read for 3rd graders.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer – Social class and culture

‘The Adventures of Tom Sawyer’ is a captivating and thrilling novel that follows the exhilarating escapades of a young boy. Filled with themes of friendship, adventure, and growing up, this classic book offers an immersive experience of the American small-town life of the mid-19th century. It provides a unique perspective on social class and culture during that era, making it an ideal choice for 3rd graders interested in exploring classic literature and historical fiction.

A Wrinkle in Time – Strong female characters

‘A Wrinkle in Time’ by Madeline L’Engle continues to captivate young readers with its timeless appeal. This classic novel showcases strong female characters and delves into good versus evil, science, and family themes. It has received numerous awards and has been adapted into movies and TV shows. ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ encourages imagination and critical thinking, making it a must-read for third graders. Additionally, the book is a valuable tool for discussing topics such as diversity, acceptance, and perseverance.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz – Both a movie and an interesting book

‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ by L. Frank Baum is a beloved adventure story that has captivated generations of young readers. In this classic tale, a young girl named Dorothy embarks on an exciting journey to the magical land of Oz. Along her adventurous ride, she encounters fascinating characters like the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion.

This enchanting book beautifully conveys important lessons about friendship, courage, and determination, making it a must-read for 3rd graders drawn to tales of adventure and magic.

Best books for 3rd grade – Conclusion

In conclusion, these teacher-recommended books for 3rd graders offer various genres and themes that will captivate young readers. From magical adventures in “Harry Potter” to heartwarming tales in “Wonder,” these books will inspire imagination and foster a love for reading.

Whether it’s the whimsical charm of “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” or the timeless appeal of “Charlotte’s Web,” each book on this list has something unique to offer. So, encourage your 3rd grader to dive into these captivating stories and embark on unforgettable literary journeys. Help them discover the joy of reading and let their imaginations soar. These books are sure to become treasured favorites on their bookshelves.

Editorial Staff

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28 Chapter Books To Hook Third Graders

Engage and inspire young readers with these unforgettable titles.

As third graders develop more advanced reading skills, they unlock a whole new world of chapter books. With higher reading levels comes more opportunity for complex, entertaining stories that will captivate your students. We’ve compiled this list of must-read chapter books for third graders to engage your established readers or encourage those looking to get lost in a good book for the first time. Many of the books are longer with more mature content and honor the significant jump in reading skills from second to third grade. Get ready for intrigue and suspense in these page-turners! At the same time, explore friendship, family, and identity in these realistic stories with characters your students can see themselves in.

1. Dyamonde Daniel series by Nikki Grimes

Dyamonde is a spunky third grader who thinks “being mean is the most uncool thing in the universe.” In these dynamic and compelling chapter books for third graders, award-winning author Nikki Grimes writes stories about the challenges of growing up, like navigating feelings of jealousy, comparison, and trying to fit in. By working through tough situations, Dyamonde learns important life lessons about what it means to do the right thing.

Buy it: Dyamonde Daniel series

2. Stella Diaz series by Angela Dominguez

Readers will delight in the charismatic Stella Diaz. Based on author Angela Dominquez’s own experience as an immigrant in the United States, the series highlights relevant, complex challenges in an engaging narrative. Tackling topics like divorce and bullying, as well as struggling to learn English, these chapter books for third graders are a great choice for your classroom library. Carefully chosen Spanish words also enhance the realistic story.

Buy it: Stella Diaz series

3. Dragons in a Bag series by Zetta Elliott

We can’t get enough of this fantastical series. In the urban backdrop of Brooklyn, 9-year-old Jaxon discovers his so-called grandmother and neighbor is actually a witch, who entrusts him and his friends to help deliver dragons to a new home. Filled with magic and time travel, the series delivers an imaginative plot that still manages to be authentic and relatable.

Buy it: Dragons in a Bag series

4. Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker series by Shelley Johannes

Spunky third grader Beatrice sees things differently. Her challenges trying to fit in with friends at school and finding a place in her family will resonate with readers, while the humorous take will keep them wildly entertained. This quirky and endearing series reminds us how to be comfortable in our own skin and that it’s OK to be different—in fact, it’s something we should celebrate.

Buy it: Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker series

5. The Fantastic Frame series by Lin Oliver

Looking for a fast-paced adventure that instantly hooks your readers? Lin Oliver’s gripping series jumps right into the action. Ten-year-old Tiger loves science, but what happens to him when he visits his mysterious neighbor is too wild to be believed: He gets transported into a painting and is forced to escape from a hungry tiger. The first book ends on a cliffhanger that will leave your readers eager for more action and excitement in the next installments.

Buy it: Fantastic Frame series

6. Definitely Dominguita series by Terry Catasus Jennings

Meet Dominguita, a book-loving Cuban American who wants to prove to a school bully that girls can be knights too. Taking inspiration from Don Quixote, the clever plot showcases relatable characters who help Dom with her quest. Quietly determined and brave, she is a heroine your readers will want to get to know.

Buy it: Definitely Dominguita series

7. The Wild Robot series by Peter Brown

These one-of-a-kind chapter books for third graders are hugely popular for a reason. The futuristic tale features a robot, Roz, trying to survive on a wild island as she faces threats of extreme weather and dangerous animals. In order to survive, she must learn to adapt to her new environment. Short chapters move the compelling story along, making it a perfect choice for readers who are looking for their next adventure.

Buy it: The Wild Robot series

8. Unicorn Academy series by Julie Sykes

A unicorn for a best friend? Yes, please! In this delightfully sweet series, students and their own unicorns get to know each other as they go on magical adventures together. These entertaining chapter books for third graders offer plenty of imagination and fantasy, while also illustrating the realistic elements of friendship.

Buy it: Unicorn Academy series

9. Geronimo Stilton series by Geronimo Stilton

Geronimo Stilton, an author who runs a newspaper in New Mouse City, embarks on grand adventures with his sister, Thea, and their friends. Fast-paced plots keep readers coming back to this treasured collection. The colorful, eye-catching illustrations and creative use of fonts come together for a fun, lighthearted read.

Buy it: Geronimo Stilton series

10. Marya Khan series by Saadia Faruqi

Saadia Faruqi, author of the popular Yasmin series, which made our list of top second grade chapter books , has created another hit series for more advanced readers. Heartwarming and relatable, the story of Marya and her loving Pakistani American family is full of friendship woes and realistic challenges that any kid might face.

Buy it: Marya Khan series

11. The Mouse With the Question Mark Tail by Richard Peck

Fans of The Tale of Despereaux and The Mouse and the Motorcycle will love this endearing story of a mouse without a name. Unsure of where he came from, he is full of questions and desperate to find out the answers. After setting out to solve the mystery of his identity, the mouse embarks on grand adventures fit for royalty. Lovely, detailed illustrations accompany this wonderfully imaginative tale.

Buy it: The Mouse With the Question Mark Tail

12. The Unicorn Rescue Society series by Adam Gidwitz

Who wouldn’t want to be part of a secret society? And one that protects mythical creatures no less! This entertaining fantasy series explores important third grade experiences like friendship and finding courage with an inventive plot that will appeal to the reader’s imagination and engage them at every turn.

Buy it: The Unicorn Rescue Society series

13. Saving Winslow by Sharon Creech

Nobody believes the baby donkey Louie’s dad brings home will survive except for Louie. Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech explores themes of hope, connection, and vulnerability in this beautiful story about a boy’s determination to keep his pet donkey alive. With beautiful prose and plenty of understated life wisdom woven throughout the heartwarming story, this book is a winner.

Buy it: Saving Winslow

14. Planet Omar series by Zanib Mian

We can’t say enough good things about these chapter books for third graders. While navigating life at a new school and being labeled as different, Omar uses his imagination to deal with everyday challenges and make sense of the world. Author Zanib Mian beautifully weaves in cultural elements, portraying the traditions and experience of a Muslim family while exploring themes of acceptance, friendship, and identity. Different fonts and sizes break up long chunks of text and keep the stories moving and engaging.

Buy it: Planet Omar series

15. Sideway Stories From Wayside School series by Louis Sachar

Hilarious and absurd, author Louis Sachar’s series about a school that was accidentally built sideways and 30 floors high is a hoot. While it may be completely wacky, the realistic elements about life at school keep it authentic and relevant. You won’t want to miss these unique chapter books for third graders!

Buy it: Sideways Stories From Wayside School series

16. A to Z Mysteries series by Ron Roy

This classic series is perfect for reluctant readers or those who are looking for shorter chapters with easier text. The wholesome adventures and mysteries are endlessly entertaining and hook readers from the very beginning. With 26 books to choose from, students can breeze through them all and try to solve each case before the characters do.

Buy it: A to Z Mysteries series

17. The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher series by Dana Alison Levy

Humorous and with huge heart, this two-book series is simply wonderful. With four boys in the Fletcher family who all have different interests and personalities, Dad and Papa have their hands full. These chapter books for third graders portray the realistic imperfections of family life and school, and illustrate how a strong familiar bond can get them through anything.

Buy it: The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher series  

18. Who Was …? series by various authors

Curious readers will devour these nonfiction titles. With more than 200 books to choose from in the prolific series, students can discover compelling biographies that suit their varying interests. Interesting anecdotes and detailed black-and-white illustrations make these famous thinkers, heroes, and changemakers engaging and approachable.

Buy it: Who Was …? series  

19. Dragonbreath series by Ursula Vernon

No matter how hard he tries, Danny just can’t breathe fire like all the other dragons. Along with his iguana best friend, Wendell, Danny goes on adventures to reptile school and beyond as he navigates not feeling he’s good enough and persevering through hard things. With appealing comic-book features combined with traditional text, these entertaining and clever books are as accessible as they are fun.

Buy it: Dragonbreath series  

20. The Magnificent Mya Tibbs series by Crystal Allen

Mya Tibbs is an energetic and endearing character your readers are sure to love. Entertaining and realistic, this charming series showcases the changing nature of friendship and relationships and what it takes to do the right thing.

Buy it: The Magnificent Mya Tibbs series

21. The Boxcar Children series by Gertrude Chandler Warner

While you may remember reading this classic as a kid, this series has truly stood the test of time. Hiding out in an abandoned boxcar, four orphaned siblings take care of one another. With simple text and accessible vocabulary, this series is great for readers who are looking for an engaging story but aren’t quite ready for more advanced books.

Buy it:  The Boxcar Children series

22. Pages and Co. series by Anna James

For more advanced third graders, this fast-paced series hits the mark. Part adventure and part mystery, these captivating chapter books for third graders feature storybook characters coming to life.

Buy it: Pages and Co. series

23. Daisy Dawson series by Steve Voake

Daisy Dawson can talk to animals—how cool is that?! Her skill comes in handy as she must help many different animal friends. A perfect fit for readers who are looking for more accessible text, this sweet series is compulsively readable. Animal lovers will delight in Daisy’s magical power.

Buy it: Daisy Dawson series

24. Humphrey series by Betty Birney

A lovable hamster and class pet named Humphrey narrates this series with surprising depth and heart. Spending each weekend at a different kid’s house, Humphrey gets to see and do it all. What a lucky hamster! With 13 books to choose from, readers will devour these as they get to know the one and only Humphrey.

Buy it: Humphrey series

25. Tales of Magic series by Edward Eager

Summer is shaping up to be extremely slow and boring for Jane and her siblings until Jane finds a magic coin that grants half their wishes, turning everything upside down. What happens when only half your wish comes true? Find out in these compelling and clever chapter books for third graders.

Buy it: Tales of Magic series

26. The Mysterious Makers of Shaker Street by Stacia Deutsch

Michael hears an unusual sound and enlists his neighbor friends to help him figure out what’s causing it. We love how readers can get involved in these fun, engaging mysteries. Follow along as these friends solve curious cases around their neighborhood.

Buy it: The Mysterious Makers of Shaker Street series

27. Otis Dooda series by Ellen Potter

Otis and his family experience many curious and strange things when they move to New York City. Based on the title, you might guess the tone of this book right away. And yes, it’s downright silly and appeals to kids’ sense of humor, but that’s why they will love these books.

Buy it: Otis Dooda series

28. Clementine series by Sara Pennypacker

Clementine is a precocious, energetic third-grader who is no stranger to getting in trouble. We love her spunk and attitude! Filled with hilarious adventures and relatable predicaments, this series will keep readers endlessly entertained.

Buy it: Clementine series

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Plus, check out this list for more book inspiration for third graders ., you might also like.

60 3rd Grade Books To Add to Your Classroom Library

Third grade should be a year of awesome books. Continue Reading

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Home » Reading lists for Elementary School children » 3rd grade reading books for children aged 8-9

3rd grade reading books for children aged 8-9

Books for grade 3 . This list of grade 3 books has been carefully compiled by teachers and librarians to appeal to elementary school children aged 8-9. There is a range of easier short stories and more challenging chapter books that are ideal to share aloud or read independently for the first time. This list of 3rd grade reading recommendations includes titles by Dhonielle Clayton, Dick King-Smith, Roald Dahl, Judy Blume, Joyce Sidman, Beverly Cleary, Catherine Gilbert Murdock, Lenore Look, Cornelia Funke and more.

Books for Grade 3 – our recommendations

The book of boy by catherine gilbert murdock.

Boy, a hunchbacked servant, joins a mysterious pilgrim on a quest to collect priceless relics in this absorbing historical adventure. In a convincing and immersive medieval Europe setting, they face trials, uncover secrets, and learn that people can be beguiling. The multi-award-winning Book of Boy is a memorable story of self-discovery, loyalty, and friendship.

Dark Emperor and Other Poems of the Night by Joyce Sidman

An evocative collection of poems that describe dusk to darkness to moonlight to dawn – and everything that happens beyond our eyes while we are asleep. A great book to read with a class, and useful to spark imaginative ideas for children’s creative writing.

Babe by Dick King-Smith

The classic heart-warming story of a pig who learns how to herd sheep, which was turned into the blockbuster film ‘Babe’. An ideal reading book for the start of third grade.

The Adventures of Paddington by Michael Bond

Paddington Bear arrives from far away Peru and takes over the lives of the Brown family when they meet at Paddington station. Classic, timeless and great fun.

The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall

The Penderwick children embark on exciting adventures in this classic children’s series set in Massachusetts. Ideal for imaginative third-grade children to get hooked on.

The World According to Humphrey by Betty Birney

Humphrey is an inquisitive and clever homeroom hamster who listens to everything. Soon he understanding reading and writing and joins in class. But can he outwit the evil teacher, Mrs Brisbane?

Bad to the Bone by Lucy Nolan

‘Here Kitty Kitty’ is a scheming cat that lives next door and ‘Down Girl’ is the family dog and hero of the story. Great fun and ideal for reluctant 9 year old readers.

The Marvellers by Dhonielle Clayton

Ella is the first Conjuror to enroll in the Arcanum Training Institute, a global magic school in the sky. Some Marvellers, though, are skeptical about her brand of magic. Ella has the perfect opportunity to clear her family’s name and change the way people think of her when a criminal escapes in this thrilling fantasy adventure. Fans of ‘Nevermoor’, and ‘Amari and the Night Brothers’, will enjoy this. More more advanced readers in grade 3.

The Magic Thief by Sarah Prineas

Set in a fantasy world of spells and wizards, Conn finds himself thrown into adventures and solving mysteries. Exciting and fast-paced.

Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate

Crenshaw is more than Jackson’s imaginary cat friend – he might be able to save the day and show Jackson how to solve all his problems. Touching and thoughtful, this book is ideal as a third grade class reader.

The Man Who Walked Between The Towers by Mordicai Gerstein

The captivating picture book story of Frenchman Phillippe Petit who walked a tightrope between the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York in 1974. A jaw-dropping story and equally inspiring illustrations.

Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson

An emotional and thought-provoking book about the effects of bullying told through free verse and touching artwork. A really good choice to use with grade three classes.

Contemporary

Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

A must-have book for any third and fourth grade library. Highly entertaining with fun comic-style illustrations and excellent for motivating 3rd grade children who don’t like to read.

Big Nate by Lincoln Pierce

Fun comic style adventure stories about Nate – and his life at home and at school. Perfect for children who liked Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and ideal for less enthusiastic readers.

Wayside School by Louis Sachar

Wayside School is a place where things go horribly wrong, often with hysterically funny consequences – especially on the thirteenth floor. Very funny and ideal for 8 and 9 year olds.

Spiderwick Chronicles by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black

A thrilling fantasy series in which Jared, Simon and Mallory set off on adventures and solve mysteries in a gripping world of fairies and long-forgotten secrets. A more challenging 3rd grade read.

The Familiars by Adam Jay Epstein

Alwyn the cat has magic powers in this book set in a world of witches and wizards. But will he be powerful enough to save his friends when they are captured by an evil queen?

The Twits by Roald Dahl

Mr and Mrs Twit are a revolting couple. They smell, they’re vile and they play nasty jokes on each other. But the Muggle-Wumps, the house pets, finally decide to put a stop to the Twits’ tricks in this extremely funny grade 3 book with short chapters.

Alvin Ho by Lenore Look

If your child is a fan of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, they are bound to enjoy this story about Alvin who is scared of everything, hates school, hates girls and longs to be a superhero.

Henry’s Freedom Box by Ellen Levine

Henry doesn’t know how old he is or when his birthday is. Born into slavery he longs for freedom, and one day, he seizes his chance.

Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters by John Steptoe

An African folktale about two very different sisters who both dream of marrying the king. Will the king pick the scheming selfish sister or the kind-hearted sister?

Tales of a 4th Grade Nothing by Judy Blume

Everyone thinks Fudge is the perfect child, except his older brother Peter, who knows what he’s really like and what he gets away with. How can Peter make his parents notice him more? Very funny and a great easy read for third and fourth grade children.

The Legend of Spud Murphy by Eoin Colfer

When Will’s mother decides to send him to the library he’s terrified of the librarian – Spud Murphy – rumored to have a huge spud powered gun to shoot children who misbehave. But slowly Will discovers the library is a great place. Great for reluctant readers.

Little Wolf’s Book of Badness by Ian Whybrow

A very funny story about Little Wolf, his uncle Bigbad and a school where he has to learn the 9 rules of badness. A great book to read aloud.

Canned by Alex Shearer

Fergal collects grocery cans with no labels. When his mother decides he has too many, she tells him he must open one before he adds any more to his collection. But there are some nasty surprises inside the cans he opens and Fergal is determined to find out who is responsible.

Poppy by Avi

In this stunningly well-illustrated fable, Poppy, a tiny mouse, faces the bullying owl Mr Ocax in a perilous quest in search of a better home and more food for her family. A great book to read with your 3rd grade child.

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs Basil E Frankweiler by E L Konigsburg

When Claudia decides to run away, she doesn’t want to go just anywhere, so she picks the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Along with her younger brother, she is drawn into a mystery when a beautiful statue is perhaps not all that is seems.

Ghost Hunters by Cornelia Funke

Nine-year-old Tom’s grandma’s best friend is the world’s best ghost hunter, and with her help, Tom tracks down some seriously revolting ghosts. Very funny and ideal for reluctant readers in the third grade.

Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl

Nasty farmers Boggis, Bunce and Bean have joined forces to try and catch clever Mr. Fox and his family. But Mr. Fox has a cunning plan to escape them. Will it work? Very funny and ideal to read aloud in grade 3.

Muggie Maggie by Beverly Cleary

Maggie refuses to practise cursive handwriting. Why should she? What’s the point? But that soon changes when she wants to spy on her teacher’s handwriting…

School story

The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner

The Alden children make a home in an old boxcar, and in doing so find a grandfather and begin a series of adventures solving mysteries. A classic set of stories which will appeal to eight and nine-year-olds.

The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Catling

John discovers he has a magic gift. Everything he touches turns to chocolate. At first, this is great, but soon he begins to regret his new power. Ideal for 3rd grade reluctant readers, particularly those who prefer shorter chapters.

Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parrish & Fritz Seibel

Amelia Bedelia is a very good girl does who does exactly what she’s told. Except, because she takes everything absolutely literally, this often has hilarious results. Great to read aloud in groups.

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

Three unlikely friends, Despereaux the mouse, Roscuro the rat, Pea the princess and Miggery Sow a slave girl set off on an epic quest to find their destinies despite many dangers. A classic short chapter book perfect for emerging readers.

James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl

James is sent to live with his two evil aunts after his parents are unexpectedly eaten by a wild Rhino. Just when he thinks things can’t get any worse, a chance encounter with magic, and a peach that grows and grows, finds him escaping in a hugely imaginative and funny adventure that will appeal to younger readers in the third grade.

Click the buttons below to purchase all of the books in this 3rd grade book list, as well as classroom sets of any of these books and many more, from Bookshop.org. Or buy the 20 most popular titles from this list from Amazon – ideal for gifts or stocking your school library. If you are ordering from outside the US, have a look at our ‘worldwide orders’ page which makes this process easy.

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Realistic Fiction for 3rd Graders

If you’ve been on the hunt for realistic fiction 3rd graders love, this is the list for you. Third graders are special because this is when many kids break into reading middle grade books. For this list, I’ve included several of my favorite young middle grade books perfect for advanced 2nd graders ( 2nd grade chapter books here ) and 3rd graders who love realistic fiction. You’ll find a healthy mix of classics and new releases to add to your lineup.

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Realistic Fiction Books for 3rd Graders

Here are 20 wonderful realistic fiction for 3rd graders:

This classic about a boy who won’t stop calling a pen a frindle is full of hijinks and the audiobook is funny beyond belief. Your kids will ask you to play this story of the boy who kept calling a pen a frindle until you’re sick of it. Such a fun, fun book! Great for introducing kids to chapter books and absolutely delightful!

Mr. Whiskers and the Shenanigan Sisters

Mr. Whiskers is a street-wise stray dog with a nose for trouble and a fondness for two girls he calls the Shenanigan Sisters. So when Misty and Zelda’s professor father is kidnapped, Mr. Whiskers follows that car, picking up vital clues. With the help of his street friends and the Shenanigan sisters, Mr. Whiskers leads the way to finding Mr. Shenanigan. I liked this better on audio and if your kids like gentle, quirky anima-led mysteries, they’ll enjoy this.

Ways to Make Sunshine

Ryan Hart and her family are going through many changes — new house, new baby, money struggles! Still, there are small joys. She doesn’t have to change schools and is still close enough to one of her best friends. With the new house and selling one of their cars, her parents can better deal with their financial struggles. Throughout this slice-of-life book, Ryan learns how to believe in herself, enjoy public speaking, be a bigger person, and love who she is. This is an absolutely delightful early middle-grade book with a memorable protagonist.

Link + Hud: Heroes by a Hair

Brothers Lincoln and Hudson Dupré are constantly pretending to be on one adventure or another–and destroying their home in the process. Until their parents get an experienced babysitter who wrangles both boys using unconventional methods–much to their dismay. Their plot to get rid of her yields unexpected results. This hilarious graphic novel-prose hybrid shows the brothers’ imaginations in panels and the real story as plain text with illustrations.

Just Harriet

Harriet’s mom is pregnant and has been placed on bed rest until the baby is born. Harriet, an energetic child, has been sent to Marble Island, where her grandmother lives and runs a bed and breakfast. She’s understandably frustrated and feeling abandoned by her parents. Thankfully, she takes her cat, Matzo Ball, with her. When she arrives at Marble Island, Harriet starts to learn more about her father’s childhood and discovers that they have more in common than she expects. Just Harriet is a charming, engaging chapter book/young middle grade book with a memorable, relatable protagonist.

Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business

Mindy and her father have recently moved from the city to a suburb in Florida, where she is the only Asian girl in her school. Mindy wants to be liked at her new school. Things start to look up for Mindy when the kids try and love her seaweed snacks. At first, she starts a snack trade-off but later decides to start selling the snacks so she can save up money to buy a puppy. However, Mindy’s new business and friendship run into some problems along the way. This series provides much-needed Asian-American representation, much like the  Jasmine Toguchi  books. If you’re looking for a chapter book with a sweet protagonist  dealing with grief,   moving,  and fitting in with a new school crowd, this is your pick.

My Weird School #1: Miss Daisy Is Crazy! 

In the first My Weird School book ever, second-grade teacher Miss Daisy is in over her head at Ella Mentary School. She doesn’t even know how to add or subtract! But the students, like A.J. and his friends, have other things on their minds. Principal Klutz has promised their class that if they read a million pages in books, they can turn the school into a video-game arcade for one whole night! Perfect for reluctant readers and word lovers alike, Dan Gutman’s insanely popular My Weird School series has something for everyone.

The Un-Friendship Bracelet (Craftily Ever After Book 1)

This cute series about a group of friends who love crafts and all things DIY is perfect for little craft fiends who love books about friendship.

Twig and Turtle: Big Move to a Tiny House

Twig and Turtle are two sisters whose parents have just moved into a tiny house! The family has done some major downsizing — the kids even had to choose just five toys they could keep, and now they have to clean up after playing with their toys. Both girls are also adjusting to a new neighborhood and new school. This is a delightful start to a compelling new chapter book series featuring two sisters whose lives are changed by a move to a tiny house. It’s perfect for kids navigating a  move to another house , depicts a  positive sister relationship , and shows kids how to handle bullying at school.

Shermy and Shake

When a new kid comes to stay with his grandmother at the house next door, Shermy’s plans for a quiet, relaxing summer are completely upended. That’s because Shake is nothing like Shermy. And Shermy is nothing like Shake. Shermy likes to read quietly in the shade of a tree. He knows the proper way to do a puzzle. As the two boys are forced to spend more and more time together, will they learn how to get along? Or will it be one long countdown until Shake goes home?

Julia on the Go: Swimming into Trouble

Julia LOVES to swim and is excited to participate in Personal Best Day with her swim team. Unfortunately, she develops an ear infection and the doctor’s orders are clear: stay out of the water. But Julia won’t give up and tries several wacky ways to stop water from getting in her ears when she swims, with disappointing and hilarious results. Eventually, she learns there are different ways to be part of a team. I loved this chapter book, especially the depiction of Julia’s immigrant parents, their sushi shop, and Julia’s adventures in the library and with frenemies. It’s an excellent choice for older readers who want the comfort of pictures in their stories.

Ava Lin: Best Friend

This is a hilarious and adorable chapter book about 6-and-a-half-year-old Ava Lin and her exploits in the first grade, which involve finding treasures, a maybe-new best friend, and lots of “explanation points.” This one skews much younger and may appeal to kids who aren’t quite strong readers yet, or for your advanced second graders. I loved it and smiled so much while reading it. It also features a mix of text, illustrations, and comic panels, which I enjoyed.

Emma McKenna, Full Out (The Kids in Mrs. Z’s Class #1)

Emma McKenna is stoked for third grade until she discovers that her former best friend is also in her class. As she tries to make new friends and use her voice in her class, Emma learns that it’s okay to be herself and share her opinions, even if it’s different from others. This is the first book in the new series featuring several acclaimed authors including Karina Yan Glaser, Rajani LaRocca, and others. Each book in the series will focus on a different kid and be written by a different author.

Too Small Tola

Too Small Tola is a new chapter book from Atinuke featuring three stories about a girl living with her grandmother and siblings in Lagos, Nigeria. Everyone teases Tola — sometimes lovingly — for being so small. They think she can’t lift heavy loads or do other things because of her size. But Tola’s grandmother reassures her that you can be small, but mighty, and Tola proves that she is!

Marya Khan and the Incredible Henna Party

In this sweet, delightful story, Marya Khan has gotten herself in a fix by claiming she’s having a henna party for her birthday when, in reality, she’s having no party. Marya is convinced that all her classmates have more exciting lives than she does but over time, she realizes that no one has a perfect life and she needs to appreciate hers more.

Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things

This series is so quirky and humorous and my heart always goes out to Alvin on his quest to make new friends and talk at school despite being nervous and afraid of everything. Kids who are shy or struggle with social situations will find a sure friend in Alvin.

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library: The Graphic Novel

The Lemoncello Library series was a hit for many middle schoolers and the graphic novel version is even more accessible, especially for advanced third graders who can’t get enough of realistic graphic novels.

Accidental Trouble Magnet (Planet Omar #1)

Omar is a young Muslim boy with a huge imagination. He and his family (his mom, dad, and two siblings) are adjusting to a new move (new house, new school) and approaching the month of Ramadan. Unfortunately, the adjustment process is NOT smooth. First, there’s a neighbor who doesn’t seem to like Omar’s family and a bully at school who keeps making fun of him. Things come a head when Omar and Daniel, the bully get lost together during a school trip. Can Omar escape all this trouble he keeps attracting? This is a charming chapter book about the life of a Muslim imaginative boy during Ramadan, adjusting to a new school, befriending a bully, and navigating family/sibling relationships.

The Terrible Two

Miles is devastated to be moving from his town to another one called Yawnee Valley. He loved his town, had good friends, and, most importantly, was well-known as the best prankster around. When he arrives in Yawnee Valley, he immediately discovers that there’s already a superb prankster there — with a secret identity no less. When Miles gets out-pranked by the Yawnee Valley prankster, it starts a prank war between both kids until they decide to join forces. The Terrible Two is a riotous, animated middle grade book about pranks, unlikely friendships, and cows.

The One and Only Ivan

This is a slightly more advanced book (that also isn’t 100% “realistic”) that makes for a good classroom read-aloud. It’s about a mall gorilla and the connections he makes with the other animals there, as well as what we can learn about animal confinement. It’s a sweet verse novel that’s great for kids who love animal stories.

There they are: 20 of the best realistic fiction books for 3rd graders! Which of these have you read? What did I miss?

More 3rd Grade Books

• Great books for 3rd graders
• Good books for 3rd grade girls
• Best books for 3rd grade boys
• Book series for 3rd graders

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• About Afoma Umesi

Afoma Umesi is the founder and editor of Reading Middle Grade where she curates book lists and writes book reviews for kids of all ages. Her favorite genre to read is contemporary realistic fiction and she'll never say no to a graphic novel.

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As you know, it's important for your students to read books from a wide variety of genres — this helps them advance their literacy skills and fosters their love of reading. These best-selling books for grades 3-5 will help every child in your class discover a book they can't put down!

For instance, the popular  I Survived Grades 3-5 bundle is a great way for students to read  chapter books  and learn about terrifying historic events. In the newest book in the series,   I Survived the Great Alaska Earthquake, 1964 , the main character, 11-year-old Jack, experiences the most powerful earthquake in American history, testing the fortitude of Jack and his community.

And in the best-seller  Leon the Extraordinary , Leon is on a mission to become a superhero but he has no superpowers. However, when a phone app starts turning users into zombies — Leon comes to the rescue. This graphic novel is a great way to engage students in a gripping story with supporting visuals. 

Meanwhile, in the latest book in award-winning Front Desk series, Top Story , feisty and resilient Mia Tang is living the dream: attending journalism camp at the San Francisco Tribune! But when her story ideas keep getting shot down, she"ll have to work with her friends to get back on top.

Shop best-selling books for grades 3-5 below! You can find all books and activities at The Teacher Store . 

Books For Third Grade Readers​

Everything you need to know to support your third-grade reader..

If you have been watching your child’s  reading progress  with eager anticipation since that first touch-and-feel baby book , then the  third-grade reading level*  is a time to get really excited. While readers at first – and second-grade levels are, for the most part, still learning the fundamentals of reading, the third-grade level is when readers tend to start  finding their reading wings . From  greater reading confidence and ability  to  a sense of independence  in the topics and genres they choose, readers at the third-grade level are busy developing  more complex reading skills  at this stage in reading development.

More broadly, the third-grade level is a  transitional period  in which readers build the skills they will need to tackle more complex educational tasks; readers at this level are transitioning from learning to read to reading to learn. Much of a reader’s  later academic success  will depend on the skills developed at this critical stage. In this article, we’ll outline key skills to look out for and support, as well as some of the choices you can turn to support your reader’s fledgling independence.

Remember that not every child develops reading skills (or any skill, for that matter) at the same pace, and children of the same age may have widely varying reading levels. A child in third grade will not necessarily be reading at a third-grade reading level—they may be reading at a  first – or  second-grade  reading level or a fourth- or fifth-grade reading level or above.

Supporting A Third-Grade-Level Reader’s Growing Confidence and Reading Ability

Your third-grade level reader is probably reading at least some texts independently and has developed a good-enough command of language to be able to appreciate plot and meaning. According to the common core standards, a  reader at this level  should be reading some multi-syllable and irregularly spelled words, self-correct mistakes, and answer text-specific questions. Developing these skills means that they are ready for more challenging reading tasks.

To help your third-grade level readers progress at this stage, encourage them to branch out and explore new authors, genres, topics, and writing styles. Provide reading-related tasks and questions that help them understand non-literal expressions, such as metaphors, and encourage them to express opinions, make comparisons, and talk about books.

This stage is also the right one to start introducing  supporting skills , such as looking up unfamiliar words, judging the quality of a book, and understanding context. Show your reader how to use tools like dictionaries and search engines, encourage them to articulate the strengths and weaknesses of a book, and urge them to research authors’ lives and the historical periods in which different books were written.

Finally, as your reader develops more complex reading skills, you will want to be on the lookout for emerging reading disabilities. Research suggests that intervention received at the second-and third-grade readings levels is much  more effective  than that delivered at a later stage.

Choosing Books by Subject Matter to Support Developing Third-Grade Reading Skills

As already mentioned, the third-grade level is the ideal time to start exploring new things. There are several areas worth exploring as you help your reader choose exciting new books.

Historical fiction can be a great way to help your reader flex their comprehension muscles and explore context simultaneously. Ellen Levine’s Henry’s Freedom Box , Yona Zeldis McDonough’s  The Bicycle Spy , and Patricia Polacco’s  Fiona’s Lace are great choices.

If you are homeschooling, classic fiction—think Pippi Longstocking , Roald Dahl novels, or fairy tales —are a great option because so many supporting educational materials are freely available.

While many readers will gravitate to fiction, it is also worth remembering that fantastic non-fiction options are available for this age group. Look for biographies , like Joseph Bruchac’s A Boy Called Slow or Ann McGovern’s The Secret Soldier , or informational texts— National Geographic has offerings on just about every subject under the sun, from dinosaurs to soccer.  

Choosing Genres and Forms to Support a Wide Range of Interests and Literacy Skills

The third-grade level also opens up a range of new forms and  genres of text for your reader to enjoy. Series books can offer a sense of familiarity and security and are an excellent choice for reluctant readers (although they pose a risk to variety and breadth of reading matter).  Captain Underpants , How to Train Your Dragon ,  and  Wayside School   are all popular choices, with enough substance to challenge as well as entertain.

Don’t forget to include some poetry:  Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes ,  books by Shel Silverstein , and Dr. Seuss ‘s stories are all great choices.

Readers at this level can also branch out from the written word to other forms of reading: magazines, audiobooks , and graphic novels can all be fantastic ways to introduce your reader to new ideas and develop broader forms of literacy. For example, the  Adventures in Cartooning  series by James Sturm will help readers build their drawing and writing skills as well as visual literacy, and magazines like  MotoKids ,  Little Player , and  Young Rider  can help your reader build literacy skills while indulging in specialist interests.

Supporting Diversity and Inclusion in Book Choices for Third-Grade Readers

Readers’ burgeoning critical thinking skills at this level make this an ideal stage for deeper exploration of social issues , including diversity and inclusion . There are many excellent books for readers at this level, from non-fiction books on advocacy , history books , and  biographies to historical and contemporary fiction.

For example, Todd Kortemeier’s  Unsung Heroes of Social Justice  introduces readers to some of the less well-known heroes of social justice movements through time. Kaelyn Rich’s  Girls Resist!   provides a practical guide to advocacy and protest for young women (although the advice is equally relevant to other ages and genders). Cece Bell’s  El Deafo ,  Ruby Bridges and Margo Lundell’s  Through My Eyes ,  and Allen Say’s  Grandfather’s Journey   are all examples of powerful texts that celebrate diversity for this reading level.

Check Out Some of the Best Books for Third Graders

• 5 Gorgeous Animal Adventure Novels for Kids
• 4 African American Biography Books for Kids
• I Survived Graphic Novel Series Review
• 10 Outstanding Poetry Books for Kids
• 5 Excellent Audiobooks for Kids Ages 8 and Up

BOOKS FOR THIRD GRADE READERS

• Officer Blue, by Victoria and Corbin Thomas | Dedicated Review

Officer Blue is a perfect addition to a growing reader’s library. It offers a delightful blend of humor and life lessons.

• A New Friend for Dragon, by Bianca Schulze | Book Review

A must-read for children aged 3-7, A New Friend for Dragon is a delightful picture book that will captivate young readers while imparting valuable life lessons.

• Mining for the Heart of History: Beth Anderson on ‘Thomas Jefferson and the Battle for Science’

Children’s author Beth Anderson discusses her latest book, Thomas Jefferson’s Battle for Science: Bias, Truth, and a Mighty Moose.

• A New Friend for Dragon, by Bianca Schulze | The Awareness Tour

A New Friend for Dragon by Bianca Schulze, beautifully illustrated by Samara Hardy, is set to captivate hearts and challenge stereotypes.

Diverse Middle Grade Audiobooks for Curious Minds

With diverse casts, engaging narratives, and stellar performances, these audiobook offerings promise to captivate audiences aged 8 and up.

A Tall Tale: How the Ostriches Got Their Long Necks and Long Legs | Awareness Tour

Welcome to the virtual book tour for A Tall Tale: How the Ostriches Got Their Long Necks and Long Legs by Scott Sollers—winner of the Mom’s Choice Award!

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How to Write a Book Review: The Ultimate Guide

WHAT IS A BOOK REVIEW?

Traditionally, book reviews are evaluations of a recently published book in any genre. Usually, around the 500 to 700-word mark, they briefly describe a text’s main elements while appraising the work’s strengths and weaknesses. Published book reviews can appear in newspapers, magazines, and academic journals. They provide the reader with an overview of the book itself and indicate whether or not the reviewer would recommend the book to the reader.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A BOOK REVIEW?

There was a time when book reviews were a regular appearance in every quality newspaper and many periodicals. They were essential elements in whether or not a book would sell well. A review from a heavyweight critic could often be the deciding factor in whether a book became a bestseller or a damp squib. In the last few decades, however, the book review’s influence has waned considerably, with many potential book buyers preferring to consult customer reviews on Amazon, or sites like Goodreads, before buying. As a result, book review’s appearance in newspapers, journals, and digital media has become less frequent.

WHY BOTHER TEACHING STUDENTS TO WRITE BOOK REVIEWS AT ALL?

Even in the heyday of the book review’s influence, few students who learned the craft of writing a book review became literary critics! The real value of crafting a well-written book review for a student does not lie in their ability to impact book sales. Understanding how to produce a well-written book review helps students to:

●     Engage critically with a text

●     Critically evaluate a text

●     Respond personally to a range of different writing genres

●     Improve their own reading, writing, and thinking skills.

Not to Be Confused with a Book Report!

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BOOK REVIEW AND A BOOK REPORT?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are clear differences in both the purpose and the format of the two genres. Generally speaking, book reports aim to give a more detailed outline of what occurs in a book. A book report on a work of fiction will tend to give a comprehensive account of the characters, major plot lines, and themes in the book. Book reports are usually written around the K-12 age range, while book reviews tend not to be undertaken by those at the younger end of this age range due to the need for the higher-level critical skills required in writing them. At their highest expression, book reviews are written at the college level and by professional critics.

Learn how to write a book review step by step with our complete guide for students and teachers by familiarizing yourself with the structure and features.

BOOK REVIEW STRUCTURE

ANALYZE Evaluate the book with a critical mind.

THOROUGHNESS The whole is greater than the sum of all its parts. Review the book as a WHOLE.

COMPARE Where appropriate compare to similar texts and genres.

THUMBS UP OR DOWN? You are going to have to inevitably recommend or reject this book to potential readers.

BE CONSISTENT Take a stance and stick with it throughout your review.

FEATURES OF A BOOK REVIEW

PAST TENSE You are writing about a book you have already read.

EMOTIVE LANGUAGE Whatever your stance or opinion be passionate about it. Your audience will thank you for it.

VOICE Both active and passive voice are used in recounts.

A COMPLETE UNIT ON REVIEW AND ANALYSIS OF TEXTS

⭐ Make  MOVIES A MEANINGFUL PART OF YOUR CURRICULUM  with this engaging collection of tasks and tools your students will love. ⭐ All the hard work is done for you with  NO PREPARATION REQUIRED.

This collection of  21 INDEPENDENT TASKS  and  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS  takes students beyond the hype, special effects and trailers to look at visual literacy from several perspectives offering DEEP LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES by watching a  SERIES, DOCUMENTARY, FILM, and even  VIDEO GAMES.

ELEMENTS OF A BOOK REVIEW

As with any of the writing genres we teach our students, a book review can be helpfully explained in terms of criteria. While there is much to the ‘art’ of writing, there is also, thankfully, a lot of the nuts and bolts that can be listed too. Have students consider the following elements before writing:

●     Title: Often, the title of the book review will correspond to the title of the text itself, but there may also be some examination of the title’s relevance. How does it fit into the purpose of the work as a whole? Does it convey a message or reveal larger themes explored within the work?

●     Author: Within the book review, there may be some discussion of who the author is and what they have written before, especially if it relates to the current work being reviewed. There may be some mention of the author’s style and what they are best known for. If the author has received any awards or prizes, this may also be mentioned within the body of the review.

●     Genre: A book review will identify the genre that the book belongs to, whether fiction or nonfiction, poetry, romance, science-fiction, history etc. The genre will likely tie in, too with who the intended audience for the book is and what the overall purpose of the work is.

●     Book Jacket / Cover: Often, a book’s cover will contain artwork that is worthy of comment. It may contain interesting details related to the text that contribute to, or detract from, the work as a whole.

●     Structure: The book’s structure will often be heavily informed by its genre. Have students examine how the book is organized before writing their review. Does it contain a preface from a guest editor, for example? Is it written in sections or chapters? Does it have a table of contents, index, glossary etc.? While all these details may not make it into the review itself, looking at how the book is structured may reveal some interesting aspects.

●     Publisher and Price: A book review will usually contain details of who publishes the book and its cost. A review will often provide details of where the book is available too.

BOOK REVIEW KEY ELEMENTS

As students read and engage with the work they will review, they will develop a sense of the shape their review will take. This will begin with the summary. Encourage students to take notes during the reading of the work that will help them in writing the summary that will form an essential part of their review. Aspects of the book they may wish to take notes on in a work of fiction may include:

●     Characters: Who are the main characters? What are their motivations? Are they convincingly drawn? Or are they empathetic characters?

●     Themes: What are the main themes of the work? Are there recurring motifs in the work? Is the exploration of the themes deep or surface only?

●     Style: What are the key aspects of the writer’s style? How does it fit into the wider literary world?

●     Plot: What is the story’s main catalyst? What happens in the rising action? What are the story’s subplots? 

A book review will generally begin with a short summary of the work itself. However, it is important not to give too much away, remind students – no spoilers, please! For nonfiction works, this may be a summary of the main arguments of the work, again, without giving too much detail away. In a work of fiction, a book review will often summarise up to the rising action of the piece without going beyond to reveal too much!

The summary should also provide some orientation for the reader. Given the nature of the purpose of a review, it is important that students’ consider their intended audience in the writing of their review. Readers will most likely not have read the book in question and will require some orientation. This is often achieved through introductions to the main characters, themes, primary arguments etc. This will help the reader to gauge whether or not the book is of interest to them.

Once your student has summarized the work, it is time to ‘review’ in earnest. At this point, the student should begin to detail their own opinion of the book. To do this well they should:

i. Make It Personal

Often when teaching essay writing we will talk to our students about the importance of climbing up and down the ladder of abstraction. Just as it is helpful to explore large, more abstract concepts in an essay by bringing it down to Earth, in a book review, it is important that students can relate the characters, themes, ideas etc to their own lives.

Book reviews are meant to be subjective. They are opinion pieces, and opinions grow out of our experiences of life. Encourage students to link the work they are writing about to their own personal life within the body of the review. By making this personal connection to the work, students contextualize their opinions for the readers and help them to understand whether the book will be of interest to them or not in the process.

ii. Make It Universal

Just as it is important to climb down the ladder of abstraction to show how the work relates to individual life, it is important to climb upwards on the ladder too. Students should endeavor to show how the ideas explored in the book relate to the wider world. The may be in the form of the universality of the underlying themes in a work of fiction or, for example, the international implications for arguments expressed in a work of nonfiction.

iii. Support Opinions with Evidence

A book review is a subjective piece of writing by its very nature. However, just because it is subjective does not mean that opinions do not need to be justified. Make sure students understand how to back up their opinions with various forms of evidence, for example, quotations, statistics, and the use of primary and secondary sources.

EDIT AND REVISE YOUR BOOK REVIEW

As with any writing genre, encourage students to polish things up with review and revision at the end. Encourage them to proofread and check for accurate spelling throughout, with particular attention to the author’s name, character names, publisher etc. 

It is good practice too for students to double-check their use of evidence. Are statements supported? Are the statistics used correctly? Are the quotations from the text accurate? Mistakes such as these uncorrected can do great damage to the value of a book review as they can undermine the reader’s confidence in the writer’s judgement.

The discipline of writing book reviews offers students opportunities to develop their writing skills and exercise their critical faculties. Book reviews can be valuable standalone activities or serve as a part of a series of activities engaging with a central text. They can also serve as an effective springboard into later discussion work based on the ideas and issues explored in a particular book. Though the book review does not hold the sway it once did in the mind’s of the reading public, it still serves as an effective teaching tool in our classrooms today.

Teaching Resources

Use our resources and tools to improve your student’s writing skills through proven teaching strategies.

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Book and Movie review writing examples (Student Writing Samples)

Below are a collection of student writing samples of book reviews.  Click on the image to enlarge and explore them in greater detail.  Please take a moment to both read the movie or book review in detail but also the teacher and student guides which highlight some of the key elements of writing a text review

Please understand these student writing samples are not intended to be perfect examples for each age or grade level but a piece of writing for students and teachers to explore together to critically analyze to improve student writing skills and deepen their understanding of book review writing.

We would recommend reading the example either a year above and below, as well as the grade you are currently working with to gain a broader appreciation of this text type .

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Book Review Writing

Introduction.

If you love to read, at some point you will want to share a book you love with others. You may already do this by talking about books with friends. If you want to share your ideas with more people than your circle of friends, the way you do that is by writing a review. By publishing the reviews you write, you can share your ideas about books with other readers around the world.

It's natural for young readers to confuse book reviews with book reports, yet writing a book review is a very different process from writing a book report. Book reports focus on the plot of the book. Frequently, the purpose of book reports is to demonstrate that the books were read, and they are often done for an assignment.

A book review is a totally different task. A book review's purpose is to help people decide whether or not the book would interest them enough to read it. Reviews are a sneak peek at a book, not a summary. Like wonderful smells wafting from a kitchen, book reviews lure readers to want to taste the book themselves.

This guide is designed to help you become a strong book reviewer, a reader who can read a book and then cook up a review designed to whet the reading appetites of other book lovers.

Form: What should the review look like?

How long should it be.

The first question we usually ask when writing something is "How long should it be?" The best answer is "As long as it takes," but that's a frustrating answer. A general guideline is that the longer the book, the longer the review, and a review shouldn't be fewer than 100 words or so. For a long book, the review may be 500 words or even more.

If a review is too short, the review may not be able to fulfill its purpose. Too long, and the review may stray into too much plot summary or lose the reader's interest.

The best guide is to focus less on how long to write and more on fulfilling the purpose of the review.

How Do You Create A Title?

The title of the review should convey your overall impression and not be overly general. Strong titles include these examples:

• "Full of action and complex characters"
• "A nail-biter that will keep you up all night"
• "Beautiful illustrations with a story to match"
• "Perfect for animal lovers"

Weak titles may look like this:

• "Really good book"
• "Three stars"
• "Pretty good"
• "Quick read"

How Should It Begin?

Although many reviews begin with a short summary of the book (This book is about…), there are other options as well, so feel free to vary the way you begin your reviews.

In an introductory summary, be careful not to tell too much. If you retell the entire story, the reader won't feel the need to read it him/herself, and no one appreciates a spoiler (telling the end). Here are some examples of summaries reviewers from The New York Times have written:

"A new picture book tells a magically simple tale of a lonely boy, a stranded whale and a dad who rises to the occasion."

"In this middle-grade novel, a girl finds a way forward after the loss of her mother."

"Reared by ghosts, werewolves and other residents of the hillside cemetery he calls home, an orphan named Nobody Owens wonders how he will manage to survive among the living having learned all his lessons from the dead. And the man Jack — who killed the rest of Nobody's family — is itching to finish the job."

"In vivid poems that reflect the joy of finding her voice through writing stories, an award-winning author shares what it was like to grow up in the 1960s and 1970s in both the North and the South." Other ways to begin a review include:

• Quote: A striking quote from the book ("It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.") can make for a powerful beginning. This quote begins George Orwell's novel 1984 .
• Background: What makes this book important or interesting? Is the author famous? Is it a series? This is This is how Amazon introduces Divergent : "This first book in Veronica Roth's #1 New York Times bestselling Divergent trilogy is the novel the inspired the major motion picture."
• Interesting Fact: For nonfiction books in particular, an interesting fact from the book may create a powerful opening for a review. In this review of The Middle East by Philip Steele, Zander H. of Mid-America Mensa asks, "Did you know that the Saudi Arabia's Rub' al-Khali desert reaches temperatures of 140 degrees Fahrenheit in the day and plummets to the freezing point at night?"
• Explanation of a term: If a word or phrase in the book or title is confusing or vitally important to understand, you may wish to begin the review explaining that term.

Process: What should I write about?

Deciding what to say about the book can be challenging. Use the following ideas as a guide, but remember that you should not put all of this into a single review — that would make for a very long review! Choose the things that fit this particular book best.

General Information What the reader ought to know

• What kind of book is it? (Picture book? Historical fiction? Nonfiction? Fantasy? Adventure?)
• Does the book belong to a series?
• How long is the book? Is it an easy or a challenging read?
• Is there anything that would be helpful for the reader to know about the author? For instance, is the author an expert in the field, the author of other popular books, or a first-time author?
• How does the book compare to other books on the same topic or in the same genre?
• Is the book written in a formal or informal style? Is the language remarkable in any way?
• What ages is the book geared to?
• Is the book written in normal prose? If it is written in poetic form, does it rhyme?

Plot What happens?

Writing about the plot is the trickiest part of a review because you want to give the reader a feel for what the book is about without spoiling the book for future readers. The most important thing to remember is that you must never give away the ending. No one likes a spoiler.

One possibility for doing this is to set up the premise (A brother and a sister find themselves lost in the woods at the mercy of an evil witch. Will they be able to outsmart her and escape?). Another possibility is to set up the major conflict in the book and leave it unresolved (Sometimes the waiting is the hardest part or He didn't know what he stood to lose or Finding your purpose in life can be as easy as finding a true friend.)

Try to avoid using the tired phrase "This book is about…" Instead, just jump right in (The stuffed rabbit wanted more than anything to live in the big old house with the wild oak trees.)

Characters Who lives in the book?

Reviews should answer questions about the characters in fiction books or non-fiction books about people. Some possible questions to answer include:

• Who are the main characters? Include the protagonist and antagonist.
• What makes them interesting?
• Do they act like real people act or are they too good or too evil to be believable?
• Are they human?
• What conflicts do they face?
• Are they likeable or understandable?
• How do they connect with each other?
• Do they appear in other books?
• Could you relate to any of the characters in the story?
• What problems did the main characters face?
• Who was your favorite character, and why?
• We learn about characters from things they do and say, as well as things other characters say about them. You may wish to include examples of these things.

Theme What is the book about at its heart?

What is the book really about? This isn't the plot, but rather the ideas behind the story. Is it about the triumph of good over evil or friendship or love or hope? Some common themes include: change, desire to escape, facing a challenge, heroism, the quest for power, and human weaknesses.

Sometimes a book will have a moral — a lesson to learn. If so, the theme is usually connected to that moral. As you write about the theme, try to identify what makes the book worth reading. What will the reader think about long after the book is finished? Ask yourself if there any particular lines in the book that strike you as meaningful.

Setting Where are we?

The setting is the time and place the story occurs. When you write about the setting in a review, include more than just the location. Some things to consider:

• Is the book set in the past, present or future?
• Is it set in the world we know or is it a fantastical world?
• Is it mostly realistic with elements of fantasy (animals that can talk, for example)?
• Is the setting unclear and fuzzy, or can you easily make the movie in your mind?
• How much does the author draw you into the setting and how does s/he accomplish that?

Opinion & Analysis What do you really think?

This is where the reviewer shares his/her reactions to the book that go beyond the essential points described above. You may spend half of the review on this section. Some possible questions to address include:

• Why do you think other readers would enjoy it? Why did you enjoy it (if you did) or why didn't you (if you didn't).
• What ages or types of readers do you think would like the book?
• How does it compare with other books that are in the same genre or by the same author?
• Does the book engage your emotions? If a book made you laugh or cry or think about it for days, be sure to include that.
• What do you like or dislike about the author's writing style? Is it funny? Is it hard to follow? Is it engaging and conversational in tone?
• How well do you think the author achieved what s/he was going for in the writing of the book? Do you think you felt what the author was hoping you would feel?
• Did the book feel complete, or did it feel as though key elements were left out?
• How does the book compare to other books like it you've read?

Are there parts that are simply not believable, even allowing for the reader's understanding that it is fiction or even fantasy?

• Are there mistakes?
• Would you describe the book as for entertainment, self-improvement, or information?
• What was your favorite part of the book?
• Would you have done anything differently had you been the author?
• Would any reader enjoy this book? If not, to what ages or type of reader would it appeal?

Special situations: Nonfiction and young reviewers

Some of the tips and ideas above work best for fiction, and some of it is a little too complicated for very young reviewers.

Nonfiction What to do if it's real

When reviewing a book of nonfiction, you will want to consider these questions:

• What was the author's purpose in writing the book? Did the author accomplish that purpose?
• Who is the target audience for the book?
• What do you think is the book's greatest value? What makes it special or worthwhile?
• Are the facts shared accurate?
• Is the book interesting and hold your attention?
• Would it be a useful addition to a school or public library?
• If the book is a biography or autobiography, how sympathetic is the subject?
• Is it easy to understand the ideas?
• Are there extra features that add to the enjoyment of the book, such as maps, indexes, glossaries, or other materials?
• Are the illustrations helpful?

Young Reviewers Keeping it simple

Reviewing a book can be fun, and it's not hard at all. Just ask yourself these questions:

• What is the book about? You don't need to tell the whole story over — just give an idea of what it's about.
• Do you think other people would like it?
• Did you think it was funny or sad?
• Did you learn something from the book?
• l Did you think it was interesting?
• Would you want to read it again?
• Would you want to read other books by the same author or about the same subject?
• What was your favorite part?
• Did you like the pictures?

Remember! Don't give away the ending. Let's keep that a surprise.

General Tips & Ideas

Use a few quotes or phrases (keep them short) from the book to illustrate the points you make about the book. If there are illustrations, be sure to comment on those. Are they well done? Has the illustrator done other well-known books?

Make sure you include a conclusion to the review — don't leave it hanging. The conclusion can be just one sentence (Overall, this book is a terrific choice for those who…).

You can use the transition word handout at the end of the Writer's Toolbox to find ideas for words to connect the ideas in your review. If you would like to read some well-written reviews, look for reviews of books for young people at The New York Times or National Public Radio .

Rating Books How to award stars?

Most places you post reviews ask you to rate the book using a star system, typically in a range of from one to five stars. In your rating, you should consider how the book compares to other books like it. Don't compare a long novel to a short poetry book — that's not a valid comparison.

It's important to remember that it's not asking you to only give five stars to the very best books ever written.

• 5 Stars: I'm glad I read it or I loved it (this doesn't mean it was your favorite book ever).
• 4 Stars: I like it. It's worth reading.
• 3 Stars: It wasn't very good.
• 2 Stars: I don't like it at all.
• 1 Star: I hate it.

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