fiction books 3rd grade reading level

60 Best 3rd Grade Books in a Series

This post may contain affiliate links.

What are the best 3rd grade books in a series for 8 year olds? Here are good book series that are just right for third graders and that they’ll LOVE to read.

As young readers gain more confidence and independence, they’ll be interested in books about real life (true stories), finding a good informational book about a topic of interest, reading book series like the ones on this list, binging favorite best selling books like Dog Man, and may start noticing books that are award winning books.

Often by 3rd grade, some students become reluctant readers for a variety of reasons — technology could be interfering, or a learning difference might need to be addressed. I urge you to do everything you can to find solutions and answers — because the longer a young reader goes without success or efficacy, the harder it is to reengage these 3rd grade readers with reading.

(For those of you not in the U.S., third grade is generally about 8 years old.)

–> ALL book recommendations for 8-year-olds (3rd graders) here .

SHOP this booklist.

3rd Grade Books in a Series (Kids Will Love to Read)

Katie the Catsitter by Colleen AF Venable, illustrated by Stephanie Yue ADVENTURE GRAPHIC NOVEL Katie desperately wants to join her friends at their summer camp to earn money, she gets a job for her neighbor Madeline catsitting 217 super-smart cats with destructive behaviors and powerful abilities. Then she discovers that her neighbor might be the supervillain, Moustress. Then, when the Moustress gets captured, Katie decides she and the cats must save their friend.

Sparks by Ian Boothby, illustrated by Nina Matsumoto SUPERHERO After escaping the evil laboratory, cats August and Charlie help others in a “Super Dog” dog disguise. But their evil scientist nemesis, a diaper-wearing baby named Princess, will stop at nothing to recapture the escaped cats…and conquer the entire world. Filled with adventure, friendship, and humor!

Dragon Kindom of Wrenly: The Coldfire Curse by Jordan Quinn FANTASY When Cinder’s father crashes, it’s clear that he’s sick from the dreaded “cold curse” so Cinder must ask the king for help. Cinder meets a red dragon named Ruskin, the pet of the human king. Cinder, Ruskin, and their friend Groth travel to the fairies in order to get the ingredients to cure the curse. It’s a fast-paced and excellent story with a hook that will keep you reading the series!

Pizazz by Sophy Henn SUPERHERO Not only is Pizazz embarrassed by her name, but she’s also embarrassed about her superpower. Pizazz grumbles that her superhero duties of saving the world are inconvenient. At school, she is assigned the job of eco-monitor, which she doesn’t like until a classmate helps her see that they might be able to save the park…without superhero powers. 100% fun, relatable, and entertaining.

Love Puppies: Best Friends Furever by JaNay Brown Wood MAGICAL REALISM The magical Crystal Bone calls the pups to help a lonely girl named Meiko. The Love Puppies plan turns to disaster. How will the puppies accomplish their mission? Warmhearted and sweet, you’ll love these caring puppies and the kids they help. I know this book series will be a hit with 2nd and 3rd graders!

P.I. Butterfly Gone Guppy Case #1 by Karen Kilpatrick, illustrated by German Blanco ( GRAPHIC NOVEL ) MYSTERY Fabulous, funny, and entertaining! P.I. Butterfly is a girl who loves butterflies and mysteries. When she discovers the family guppy is missing from the fish bowl, she’s determined to discover what happened. But who did it? Was it her sister? Her mother? Her cat? She searches for clues and interviews suspects. She puts together the evidence, follows the trail of clues, and tries to get a confession–and with hard work and persistence, solves the case! Not only is this a delightful story, but it’s filled with problem-solving, critical thinking, and deductive reasoning.

Legends of Lotus Island: The Guardian Test by Christina Soontornvat, illustrated by Kevin Hong FANTASY Plum loves the garden worms and plants where she lives with her grandparents. Even so, she’s thrilled with the opportunity to go to a Guardian school where she hopes she’ll turn into a Guardian to protect the natural world. At the Guardian Academy, Plum struggles to focus; she worries that she’ll never get her animal bond like the other students. But she learns how to fight and talk to animals, and hopes she can prove herself. Readers will love the cool world-building, the captivating illustrations, and the engaging story!

Bad Kitty Supercat by Nick Bruel HUMOR GRAPHIC NOVEL Bad Kitty’s owner tells Bad Kitty to get off screens and play with some other cats. But Bad Kitty isn’t happy about having playdates. Eventually, Playdate Candidate #4 (Strange Kitty) brings imagination and comic books and Strange Kitty helps Bad Kitty find his superhero persona –just in time to meet the supervillain! Playful, imaginative, and hilarious–this is my new favorite Bad Kitty book and his first graphic novel.

Reading Journal for Kids

102 pages of fun!

Write reviews for books! Draw, imagine, and write more about the books you read. This is a wonderful journal to get kids excited about what they read!

Mythics: Marina and the Kraken written by Lauren Magaziner, illustrated by Mirelle Ortega FANTASY What an exciting start to what is sure to be a smash-hit series of adventure, girl power, and mythical creatures ! When Marina doesn’t get matched with a familiar like the other kids, she and four other 10-year-old girls discover their familiars aren’t everyday animals but mythical creatures and together, they’re destined to save Terrafamiliar. The girls start their search by boat to look for Marian’s familiar. But they’re chased by a golden jumpsuit lady who wants to steal their mythical powers. As they evade their pursuer, Marina discovers that her familiar is a kraken– a kraken who accidentally capsizes their ship. Now she and her kraken must save her friends from drowning and escape the sinister lady.

book series for 3rd graders Class Critters

Tally Tuttle Turns into a Turtle by Kathryn Holmes REALISTIC ish Tally’s nervous about her new school and when the other students make fun of her name, she wants to hide in a shell. That’s when it happens- -she turns into a turtle! As a turtle, Tally meets helpful and kind animals who help her see that if she can make friends with them, she can make friends with people, too. When she decides she’s ready to be a girl again, she transforms back into a kid.

Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke HUMOR / GRAPHIC NOVEL The Zita books rock — they’re full of adventure, humor, and fantastic characters!! Zita is a young girl who is a courageous, problem-solving heroine who accidentally gets stuck in space while trying to save her friend from kidnappers and save the universe.

Dragonbreath by Ursula Vernon FANTASY Hysterical! I couldn’t stop laughing! This is a fantastic chapter book series for 3rd grade kids about Danny Dragonbreath and the crazy adventures he has with his friends. Boxed Set HERE.

Ninja Kid: From Nerd to Ninja by Anh Do SUPERHERO Nelson is a nerdy and likable main character who wakes up on his 10th birthday with perfect vision and… ninja moves! (How cool is that?) His mum and grandma explain that, like his missing fisherman dad before him, Nelson is the LAST ninja in the world — and he’s destined to SAVE the world. Action-packed, funny, appealing illustrations, and likable characters, this book has it all. You won’t want to stop with book one either because there’s a bit of a cliffhanger…

Cat Ninja by Matthew Cody, illustrated by Yehudi Mercado SUPERHERO At night, this pet turns into Cat Ninja, Metro City’s protector! His nemesis is Leon’s sister’s evil hamster, Master Hamster. Learn the Cat Ninja’s origin story, then follow his perilous, exciting, and humorous adventures! This graphic novel will appeal to reluctant readers.

Ivy Lost and Found by Cynthia Lord, illustrated by Stephanie Graegin REALISTIC An old doll gets a new life as a book buddy! Ivy’s been in the attic for years until her girl, now an adult, donates Ivy to the Book Buddy’s shelf at the library. That’s when a lonely girl named Fern borrows Ivy. Fern is visiting her dad and his new family, and she needs a friend like Ivy. Then, when Ivy gets left outside in the rain, she has a surprise adventure of her own and makes friends with two other Book Buddies. Eventually, Fern feels better about her new blended family and returns her to the library.

Whatever After by Sarah Mlynowski FANTASY / HUMOR Once upon a time, a regular girl and her brother accidentally are transported into a fairy tale story. And mess it all up. (Whoops.) Now they have to fix the story before the ending gets changed. My kids and I love all the books in this series!

First Cat in Space by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Shawn Harris ( GRAPHIC NOVEL ) FUNNY Absurdly hysterical, this is a bizarrely perfect adventure in space! When rats eat a slice of the moon, the world’s leaders send their secret weapon– a cat and a stowaway toenail-clipping robot. The two adventurers travel to the moon where they meet the Queen of Moonopolis. Their journey is bizarre and hilarious. But the spaceship’s computer joins the Rat King’s evil side, and when the heroes arrive at the Rat King’s, they GET CAPTURED. Don’t worry– somehow they’ll escape. Right?

Two-Headed Chicken by Tom Angleberger Hilarious!! If you like wacky, bizarre humor, then this is your next favorite read. This is a story about the multiverse in which you are a two-headed chicken being chased by a moose…and it’s probably one of the top five funniest books I’ve ever read. (And I’ve read a lot of books.) Add in funny quizzes, a fish with deep feelings, and lawyers…Needless to say, I laughed out loud throughout this funny book, perfect for kids in 2nd , 3rd , or 4th grade .

Mrs. Frogbottom’s Field Trips I Want My Mummy by Nancy Krulik HISTORY Welcome to 4th grade with a teacher who isn’t like any other teachers…mostly because of her magic map that transports the entire class all over the world. In this story, Mrs. Frogbottom takes the class to Egypt — and our narrator, Tony, does not like it one bit, not the black cat following them, not that his friend Sofia disappears and not that Aiden wanders into a tomb where the friends get trapped! Camels, too much sand, pyramids, tombs, and an actual mummy make this terrified student very glad to go back home. This educational adventure series is off to a great start. Next stop, Scotland.

Jasmine Toguchi Mochi Queen by Debbi Michiko Florence, illustrated by Eliazbet Vukovic REALISTIC Jasmine is so jealous that the older kids in her family have important jobs on the mochi making day — she wants to do what the older boys and men are doing, pound the mochi rice. Her understanding father figures out a way for Jasmine to join in. And even though it didn’t work out how she wanted, her family is proud of her and decide it’s okay to break some rules like who gets to pound the rice. Not only is the story’s message sweet, Jasmine’s Japanese-American culture and warm family community shine through.

40 Exciting Books Like Harry Potter (Read Alikes!)

Best New Books: Chapter Books Fall 2014

New Middle Grade Books, April and May 2021

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Activities

Thanksgiving Books for Kids

$Fascinating STEM Picture Books$

Fascinating STEM Picture Books

10 Comments

Thanks for the round up of third grade series. I had no idea there were so many. It’s wonderful! We’ll be looking for these.

I’m glad you found some good ideas!

My daughter loves to read and is in third grade! In school, they are tested by AR level and have a goal they have to meet. She is also very competitive and wants to get the highest score each time. Problem is she doesn’t like Harry Potter or science fiction type books. The girls that won last time read Harry Potter books which are worth 29 points or more and they are also on a 6th grade level or higher. No one is really suppose to read higher than their AR level and hers is 5.5 (5th grade 5th month) and she is the top reader in her grade. Anyways, i was just wondering if you knew any books that might be good for her to read that would be worth a lot of points, but not too mature for her.

I’m dislike AR for a variety of reasons so I am not familiar with the # of points for books. That being said, you might check these titles as they would be around 5th grade level and still appropriate. Belly Up by Stuart Gibbs The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg Escape from Mr. Lemonchello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall Nooks and Crannies by Jessica LawsonJackie Ha-Ha by James Patterson All Four Stars by Tara Dairman

I too am not a fan of AR because it seems to push competition and not a love for books. That being said, a lot of the classics have more points since they use harder words. Little Women if I remember correctly had like 50 points. I started reading it to my daughter when she was in 2nd grade and she ended up finishing it herself and passing the AR test.

Maybe try Percy Jackson, I don’t like harry potter or science fiction either but I read Percy Jackson when I was in 5th grade and loved it, I remember finishing it in like a week

Thank you for all these great titles! Enticing selections for girls or boys. And since they are series, it’s like you recommended dozens of books in this post. I’m maxing out the holds on our library cards. 🙂

HA — I love it! 🙂

Thanks SO much for or including CURIOUS CAT SPY CLUB on this wonderful list! I admire so many of the other series included. I feel very honored!

A 5th book, DOG-GONE DANGER, comes out in March. And a box set of the first 3 books comes out Oct. 1st. Anyone who contacts me (via website link) will get a free spy kid activity packet. Again, thanks!!!!

Linda Joy Singleton

It’s a GREAT series! Congrats on the 5th book!

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

Books for 3rd graders and beyond are obviously the best gift . When buying for kids, books are even better because you can pick out something that will directly help them build skills they need for school. Picking out a book can be fraught. What do kids today even read? Are comic books considered books or not? How do you know what reading level kids are at? And which classic books are too racist, too sexist, or too distant to connect with kids today?

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 Things 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.)

George 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!

Louisiana HB 777 Would Criminalize Librarians and Libraries Who Join the American Library Association

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.

Yes! Sign me up for updates relevant to my child's grade.

Please enter a valid email address

Thank you for signing up!

Server Issue: Please try again later. Sorry for the inconvenience

IMAGES

3Rd Grade Reading Level Examples
25+ Into The Wild Chapter 6
Fiction Books That Help Teach Point of View
19 Best Chapter Books For Third Graders
Fiction Stories For 3Rd Grade
Third Grade Reading Comprehension Assessment

VIDEO

3rd grade
Reading 3 Books & Guessing Their Goodreads Rating
Third Grade Mermaid by Peter Raymundo
Learn English Through Stories Level 3 🔥| Graded Reader
Learn English Through Stories Level 3 🔥| Graded Reader
Let's Talk Books: Children's Fiction (AR Level 3.2

COMMENTS

60 Best 3rd Grade Books in a Series
The Haunted Library by Dori Hillestad Butler. MYSTERY. My 3rd-grade daughter and I loved this entertaining mystery series about a boy ghost, Kaz, who is blown away from his family and into a new haunt — a library. In this first story, he and his new friend, Claire, decide to be detectives.
70 Must-Read Books for 3rd Graders
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.
Favorite books for 3rd graders Book lists
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.