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GVSD Summer 2023 Reading Letter Grades K-5

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Summer Reading Log for GVSD Students Entering 1st and 2nd Grade

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Summer Reading Log for GVSD Students Entering 1st and 2nd Grade

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GV Summer Reading Challenge (color option) (3)

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Summer Reading Log for GVSD Students Entering 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade

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Summer Reading Log for GVSD Students Entering 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade

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20 of the Best Level 2 Books for Early Readers

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20 of the Best Level 2 Books for Early Readers

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20 of the Best Level 2 Books for Early Readers

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Isn't it exciting to watch children grow in their reading skills? When your child is ready to transition to Level 2 books, discover the best of what's out there to build comprehension skills, vocabulary, and confidence, including these engaging fiction and nonfiction books that provide developing readers with strong visual clues and predictable sentence patterns.

Keep your kids reading with these favorite Level 2 books!

by Julianne Moore, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Freckleface Strawberry loves to eat lots of foods, but she's not so sure about eating the weird green stuff in the cafeteria. Will she try it or pass?

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20 of the Best Level 2 Books for Early Readers | Brightly

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Isn't it exciting to watch children grow in their reading skills? When your child is ready to transition to Level 2 books, discover the best of what's out there to build comprehension skills, vocabulary, and confidence, including these engaging fiction and nonfiction books that provide developing readers with strong visual clues and predictable sentence patterns.

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GVSD Questions for Parents_ Comprehension Conversation .pdf

GVSD Questions for Parents_ Comprehension Conversation .pdf

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GVSD Questions for Parents_ Comprehension Conversation .pdf

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Username and Password:

Students and teachers should use their Google sign in to access Raz-Plus at home this summer.

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We are proud to be the library of choice for the communities of Bethel, Chadds Ford, Chester Heights, Concord, and Thornbury. https://www.kohllibrary.org/

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Student's link here  https://bit.ly/3qUuGqI to access at Pebble Go at home this summer.

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A curriculum-connected, supplemental learning tool for elementary school educators

How PebbleGo Works

With just one simple username and password for your entire school, signing in for even your youngest students is a snap.

Your students are all set for simple, safe, and fun research that will develop a lifelong thirst for knowledge.

What Five Years of PebbleGo can mean for your students.

Georgia Brown Dual Immersion School's five-year journey with PebbleGodemonstrates that when a school is empowered with resources that support and share its beliefs, students are successful.

Get PebbleGo updates in your inbox!

We'll send you one email every month full of helpful articles, free lessons, and updates.

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Discover the go-to curriculum-connected research tool specifically for elementary school educators and students

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The Best Kindergarten Books for Your Early Reader!

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The Best Kindergarten Books for Your Early Reader!

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Inside: Kindergarten books are vitally important for early readers, and these are some of our favorites. Check them out!
Kindergarten Books are Essential for Young Readers!

Watching my oldest son's development while he was in kindergarten was nothing short of amazing.

He began the year mesmerized by books but not at all able to read them. Yet, by the time June came around, he had his own stack of awesome books for kindergarten readers (all of which he could read fluently,) he knew exactly which stories were "just right" for him in our school library (ok, ok - so I may be his school librarian - but it's exciting nonetheless!!), and he would stay up way past his bedtime reading with his special book light.

It was incredible. And, of course, it made my book-loving heart so, so happy.

Just as he grew, so did his love of reading. I credit so much of this love not only to great kindergarten read-alouds, but also to getting the perfect books into his hands when he began his reading journey.

What Makes a "Good" Book for Kindergartners?

When our children begin kindergarten, most of us typically have one thought in mind: my child will read this year! After all, is there anything more synonymous with kindergarten than this singular goal?

Finding the "right" kindergarten books is therefore essential. We want to give them books that will excite them, delight them, make them laugh and boost their confidence as they begin to tackle a brand new challenge.

So how do you know if a book is perfect for your beginning reader? What makes a great kindergarten book different from an easy chapter book? Check out these tips!

Large Fonts Help Kindergarten Readers Comprehend

Believe it or not, larger fonts really make a difference for new readers! Larger fonts have been linked to a boost in decoding skills, in addition to greater fluency and enhanced comprehension. Larger text in kindergarten books is also much less intimidating to new readers, as pages inherently have more white space and less words. It allows children to easily see where their eyes should go next.

Short Sentences in Kindergarten Books is Essential

Simplicity is key for new readers. Why? The longer the sentence, the more confusion your child will feel. Remember - kindergarten books are for those kids who are just learning to read. That means they have not yet mastered fluency and speed, nor do they understand the nuances of punctuation. And forget about a sentence extending over a page turn - these are the things that do nothing but frustrate our new readers. Thus, short and simple is key!

Repetition Helps Young Readers Grasp New Concepts

Repetitive books for kindergarteners are like the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. These are the best! This type of story includes both repetitive structures and vocabulary words. Repetition in early readers allows children to master new words and skills. On their first read through, a child may stumble and pause frequently as they sound out what they see on the page. Yet, the more frequently they read a passage, sentence or word, the more flow and fluency will improve. The best part? When fluency improves, so does confidence.

Kindergarten Books Should Contain Easy-to-Decode Words

Many beginning readers and kindergarten books incorporate easy to read words. But what are those words? These early readers contain not only sight words, but also words that can be decoded easily using the rules of phonics and "chunking" strategies (ie., breaking words up into smaller components.)

Illustrations Provide Supportive Clues to Early Readers

Illustrations in kindergarten books should not just be engaging, but they should also provide supportive, or "context" clues to the reader. This means that a great early reader contains pictures that correspond to the text, support both the plot and mood of the book, and help readers decode unknown vocabulary words.

These Kindergarten Books Will Engage and Captivate Your New Readers!

Keep in mind that the easiest of these books are at the top of the list, and the more challenging (and longer) reads are at the end.

Enjoy!

RELATED: Looking for the best books for starting kindergarten? This list will help your kids get ready for the big day.

Stop! Bot!, by James Yang: Winner of the 2020 Geisel Award, this is a darling picture book mystery with simple text and fabulous illustrations that tell much of the story in and of themselves. A young boy stops to show a doorman his new "bot," but the bot suddenly gets away from him and floats high into the air like a balloon! As the doorman rushes from floor to floor in the building, the people on each floor get zanier and zanier. Will they be able to rescue the bot before it's too late? Vibrant and engaging, we simply love this one! Shop Stop! Bot! & support local bookstores here! Shop Amazon here!

The Book Hog, by Greg Pizzoli: If you guessed that the book hog loves books, you guessed correctly! He loves everything about them - from the way they feel to the way they smell. One thing he doesn't love, though? He can't read them. Leave it to a special librarian to help him unlock the magic within each story! We love this one, a Geisel Honor from 2020. Shop The Book Hog & support local bookstores here! Shop Amazon here!

Jack at Bat, by Greg Pizzoli: We are loving this new series for beginning readers, with its big pictures, big text, simple prose, and plots that will undoubtedly make your kids laugh as they perfect their new reading skills. Is there anything better than that? In this book, it's up to Jack to make a winning run during a baseball game... but on the way to the plate, he spots some snacks. Uh oh! Between Jack the rabbit, his funny dog, and a cranky old lady, this series is a delight! Shop Jack at Bat & support local bookstores here! Shop Amazon here!

Frank and Bean, by Jamie Michalak and illustrated by Bob Kolar: What happens when calm and quiet Frank meets toot-toot-tooting Bean who just loves playing his trumpet? These two total opposites may be in trouble when they end up camping right next to each other. Can two seemingly different characters find a way to be... friends? This goofy kindergarten book is perfect for your kids who want a longer story to read where they can practice their skills and laugh at the very same time. Shop Frank and Bean & support local bookstores here! Shop Amazon here!

Smell My Foot!, by Cece Bell: if you want someone to smell your foot, no matter whether you think that scent will be good or bad, you better make sure to use your manners and say please!! My big one could not get through this book without laughing hysterically. And when I read it with him for the first time, I too was laughing so hard I could not catch my breath. If you want a book that's sure to be a hit for new readers, with easy to read text, hilarious illustrations, and bucket loads of fun, this one is a must! Shop Smell My Foot! & support local bookstores here! Shop Amazon here!

Henry and Mudge, by Cynthia Rylant and illustrated by Sucie Stevenson: Meet Henry and Mudge, companions, friends and forever partners! Henry has no siblings and no friends on his street, so he convinces his parents to get him a pup - who grows into a very large dog. These delightful stories are terrific for children moving just beyond beginning readers, as they feature more complex sentences, longer paragraphs and short chapters. A classic series for newly independent readers looking for easy chapter books! Shop Henry and Mudge & support local bookstores here! Shop Amazon here!

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21 Kindergarten Books That Will Wow and Inspire Your Little Readers!

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Inside: Kindergarten books are vitally important for early readers , and these are some of our favorites. Check them out! Watching my oldest son's development while he was in kindergarten was nothing short of amazing. He began the year mesmerized by books but not at all able to read them.

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Fostering a love of reading and its rewards, the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program is popular with students in first through sixth grades and educators throughout America.

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Participation is a fun and easy way for kids to earn free books. They simply read a designated number of books - library books, books borrowed from friends or books bought at Barnes & Noble - write about their favorite part in our Reading Journal, and bring a completed Reading Journal to a Barnes & Noble bookstore. Children then choose their free book from the books listed on the Reading Journal and collect their free book from a store near them during July and August.

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The Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program is a fun and easy way for kids to foster their love of reading and earn free books. Learn how to participate.

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50 Must Read Books for Beginning Readers

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50 Must Read Books for Beginning Readers

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This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you are reading this post, you are probably a teacher, parent, or someone else who spends time with beginning readers. You know the beautiful sound of hearing a young child successfully read a book out loud. At the same time, you know how painful and frustrating it is to listen to a primary student struggle through a book that is too hard or uninteresting to the child.

To help you and your beginning reader, I put together a list of 50 picture books, book series, and chapter books for readers who are figuring out consonant/vowel/consonant words, bossy r words, magic e words, sight words, and all of the other words that find themselves in books for early readers. These books for beginning readers are fun (and easy!) to read.

How To Find Good Fit Books

When helping a young reader pick out a book, look for “good fit books.” Follow these simple guidelines:

Find books that interest your child, whether they are about Darth Vader, hedgehogs, trucks, animal friends, or anything else that your child loves.

Use the “five finger rule.” Open a book to the second page, have your child read the page to you. If your child cannot read five words on that page, it is not a “good fit” and your child should choose another book.

After reading a page, ask your child some questions about the book. If he or she cannot comprehend what was read, pick a new book.

If you would like to read more about helping young readers choose “good fit books,” take a look at

The Kids Are All Right Newsletter

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1. I Need a Hug By Aaron Blabey

“I need a hug. Will you cuddle me, Lou?’ ‘What? With those spikes? Get away from me! Shoo!’ All this little porcupine wants is a hug. But with such prickly spikes, will she ever get the cuddle she craves?”

2. Monster Park By Annie Bach

“Monster’s having a fun time at the park—swinging and sliding, swirling and twirling, and riding the whirly-whirl. When it’s time to go, though, Monster says “NO!” But all’s okay because Monster can return another day. A monstrous-ly enjoyable follow-up to Annie Bach’s delightful Monster Party!”

3. Don’t Push The Button! By Bill Cotter

“There’s only one rule in Larry’s book: don’t push the button.

(Seriously, don’t even think about it!)

Even if it does look kind of nice, you must never push the button. Who knows what would happen?

Okay, quick. No one is looking… push the button.

Uh, oh.”

4. How to Grow a Friend By Sara Gillingham

“A lovely metaphor teaches valuable lessons in how to treat others and make friendships blossom! Making a friend takes patience, care, and room to bloom—just like growing a flower. Soon your little gardeners will have their very own green thumbs for this most important of life skills.”

5. Good Dog By Cori Doerrfeld

“When a puppy in need of a friend follows a kind girl into town, he lands himself into all sorts of trouble. He gets lost. He’s nearly run over. And he gets chased out of a bakery for being a “bad dog.”

But when the pup and the girl reunite in the park and she leaves behind her favorite doll, the puppy has a chance to prove just what a good dog he really is!”

6. Everything is Mama By Jimmy Fallon

“Jimmy Fallon, one of the most popular entertainers in the world, was on a mission with his first children’s book to have every baby’s first word be DADA. And it worked! A lot of babies’ first words were DADA. However, everything after that was MAMA.”

7. This is Not a Cat By David LaRochelle

“Welcome to Sunny Hills Mice School where the first lesson is recognizing DANGER! And that means CAT. So Miss Mouse shows her students pictures of things that are, and are not, a kitty. But the kids are a bit restless…until something enters the classroom that makes them all sCATter. But, is their unwelcome guest really a cat?”

8. There’s a Hole in the Log on the Bottom of the Lake By Loren Long

“But it turns out there’s a a whole lot more than just a log on the bottom of this lake! A cumulative text featuring repetition and tongue-twisters combine with gorgeous illustrations from New York Times bestselling illustrator Loren Long for a book kids will clamor for at story time.”

9. I Just Ate My Friend By Heidi McKinnon

This beautiful, innovate picture book from an enormously talented new creator will make you laugh out loud. The search for a true friend is something everyone can relate to—from the very young to the very old.

I just ate my friend. He was a good friend. But now he is gone. Would you be my friend?

A hilarious story about the search for friendship and belonging…and maybe a little bit about the importance of impulse control…from an amazing new creator.

10. You are (not) Small By Anna Kang

Two fuzzy creatures can’t agree on who is small and who is big, until a couple of surprise guests show up, settling it once and for all!

The simple text of Anna Kang and bold illustrations of New Yorker cartoonist Christopher Weyant tell an original and very funny story about size — it all depends on who’s standing next to you.

11. Where’s My Teddy? By Jez Alborough

“Yikes! Eddie’s in for the surprise of his life when he discovers that his teddy bear has grown much too big to cuddle! But there’s fun in store when Eddie meets up with a real bear who’s got just the opposite problem—his lost teddy bear has shrunk to a size that’s much too small for such an enormous bear to cuddle. Could it be a case of mistaken identity? This fast-paced comedy of errors, illustrated with Jez Alborough’s quirky artwork, is guaranteed to have children—and bears alike—reaching for their teddies!”

12. The Itchy Book By LeUyen Pham

“Triceratops has an itch…so does Pterodactyl…and Brontosaurus…and T-Rex! But Dino-Mo reminds them all of the BIG rule: Dinosaurs do not scratch! What’s an itchy dinosaur to do?”

13. Ten Black Dots By Donald Crews

One dot can make a sun, two dots can make the eyes of a fox, and three dots can make a snowman’s face. And that’s just the beginning in this unique counting book!

14. Gator Gator Gator By Daniel Bernstrom

“Put on your life jacket, hop in the boat, and raise your binoculars—it’s time to go on an adventure!

In Daniel Bernstrom’s follow-up to the critically acclaimed One Day in the Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus Tree, a fearless little girl takes off in search of a giant gator—but she’s not going into that swamp alone! No way! She wants YOU, the reader, to come along.

Off you go, peering through the lush landscapes, looking for that gator! But each time you think you see it? Oops! Just a fox. Or some ducks! Or a snake. Maybe you’ll never find the gator, gator, gator…”

15. Yo! Yes? By Chris Rashka

“An effective, unusual 34-word story of the beginnings of a friendship, accompanied by wild and wonderful illustrations. Against pastel backgrounds, in vibrant, colorful images, an African-American boy and a white boy meet on the street. [Their] one- and two-word exchanges on each spread lead to a tentative offer of friendship, sealed as both boys jump high in the air and yell Yow!” With a beautifully balanced, economical style, the book illumines the peaks and pitfalls of getting acquainted, and puts in a good word for brotherhood as well.”

16. The Cookie Fiasco By Dan Santat

“Four friends. Three cookies. One problem.
Hippo, Croc, and the Squirrels are determined to have equal cookies for all! But how? There are only three cookies…and four of them! They need to act fast before nervous Hippo breaks all the cookies into crumbs!”

17. Rhyming Dust Bunnies By Jan Thomas

“Bug! Rug! Mug! Hug! These dust bunnies love to rhyme. Well, except for Bob. Much to the other bunnies’ frustration, Bob can never get the rhythm right. Then he saves everyone from a big, scary monster wielding—gasp!—a broom, and they all breathe a sigh of relief. But can Bob save them from the big, scary monster’s next attack? Vrrrrrroooommm…”

18. The Wish Tree By Kyo Maclear

“Charles wants to find a wish tree. His brother and sister don’t believe there is such a thing, but his trusty companion Boggan is ready to join Charles on a journey to find out. And along the way, they discover that wishes can come true in the most unexpected ways.”

19. How Do You Say? By Angela Dominguez

“Hello! ¡Hola! Some people speak Spanish. Some people speak English. Although we may not speak the same language, some things, like friendship, are universal!

Follow two young giraffes as they meet, celebrate, and become friends. This bilingual tale will have readers eager to meet new friends and amigos.”

20. It’s Shoe Time By Bryan Collier

“This lyrical beginning-reader by multi award-winning artist Bryan Collier turns the closet on its heel and redefines what it means to be a pair. Beautifully rendered art paired with rich, rhyming dialog creates a powerful reading experience.”

21. The Three Billy Goats Gruff By Sara Shapiro

“In this Norwegian folktale, three billy goats, each one a different size but all named “Gruff,” are on a path to the top of a mountain. Their hike takes them to an old stone bridge, guarded by a great and ugly troll who tends to gobble up whomever crosses his path. The first billy-goat Gruff manages to get across the bridge without being eaten. The second Gruff does, too! Each convinces the troll that the next billy goat across the bridge will be even bigger than itself, and that if the troll has any kind of appetite, why not wait to gobble up the biggest Gruff of them all?

The greedy troll can hardly believe his luck and sure enough, when he sees the last, and biggest, billy-goat Gruff on his bridge, he roars, “Now I’m coming to gobble you up!” But the last and biggest Gruff is too big even for the troll. With his mighty horns and hooves he destroys the evil troll, and the three billy goats continue their journey to the top of the mountain.”

22. The Deep Blue Sea By Audrey Wood

“Bestselling author Audrey Wood and artist son Bruce create a cumulative concept book about colors, with more of the vivid imagery that has made their alphabet books so successful!

Readers will love learning their colors with this brightly illustrated, cumulative picture book by bestselling author Audrey Wood and her dynamic, digital-artist son, Bruce. Starting with a rock, a red rock, in the middle of the deep blue sea, the story takes a closer look at this tropical locale. The simple, repetitive text makes for a fun read-aloud for story time or sharing, and identifying the vivid images and strong colors provides an exciting concept learning experience for young readers.”

23. Cookie’s Week By Cindy Ward

“Short, simple sentences in large print tell the story of a week in the life of Cookie, a black-and-white cat…de Paola has deftly captured Cookie’s personality in his large, appealing watercolor illustrations that feature bright pastel splotches…”

24. Be Boy Buzz By bell hooks

“I be boy. All bliss boy. All fine beat. All beau boy. Beautiful. “This stunning volume celebrates all things boy.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
“Famed author bell hooks brings us a tight, exuberant story that captures the essence and energy of what it means to be a boy. Chris Raschka’s soulful illustrations buzz with a force that is the perfect match for these powerful words.”

25. One Hot Summer Day By Nina Crews

“An effervescent city child dances through a hot summer day until a thunderstorm brings welcome relief. Executed in collages made from color photographs, imaginatively redefined in unexpected juxtaposition…A wonderful concept book, grounded in ordinary events yet touched with magic, that will strike a familiar chord with preschool audiences while enlarging their perceptions. An auspicious debut!”

Books in a Series for Beginning Readers

26. Today I Will Fly (Elephant and Piggie Book #1) By Mo Willems

“Gerald is careful. Piggie is not.
Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can.
Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to.

Gerald and Piggie are best friends.

Today, I Will Fly! is the funny introduction to the characters. Piggie is determined to fly. But Gerald the elephant knows that’s impossible—isn’t it?”

27. Frog and Toad Are Friends (Frog and Toad Book #1) By Arnold Lobel

“From writing letters to going swimming, telling stories to finding lost buttons, Frog and Toad are always there for each other—just as best friends should be. These five adventurous tales are perfect for Level 2 beginning readers.”

28. Little Bear  By Else Holmelund Minarik

“Enter the world of Little Bear. Children will be entranced by Little Bear’s trip to the moon, his birthday party, and his wishes and adventures.

This is the first of the five classic books about Little Bear, introducing the funny and strikingly childlike bear cub and his friends. The combination of Else Holmelund Minarik’s simple, yet eloquent, stories and Maurice Sendak’s warm, tender illustrations have made this beloved character an enduring favorite among beginning readers.”

29. Ballet Cat The Totally Secret Secret By Bob Shea

“Ballet Cat and Sparkles the Pony are trying to decide what to play today. Nothing that Sparkles suggests—making crafts, playing checkers, and selling lemonade—goes well with the leaping, spinning, and twirling that Ballet Cat likes to do. When Sparkles’s leaps, spins, and twirls seem halfhearted, Ballet Cat asks him what’s wrong. Sparkles doesn’t want to say. He has a secret that Ballet Cat won’t want to hear. What Sparkles doesn’t know is that Ballet Cat has a secret of her own, a totally secret secret. Once their secrets are shared, will their friendship end, or be stronger than ever?”

30. Katie Woo Rules the School By Fran Manushkin

“For Katie Woo, school is one big adventure. Join the stylish schoolgirl as she learns how to be a great classmate and friend. From the school play to the class pet, Katie knows how to rule the school! Katie Woo books are the perfect transition from picture books to chapter books.”

31. Pedro, First-Grade Hero By Fran Manushkin

“Spend some time with Pedro, Katie Woo’s fun-loving friend. From a buggy disaster to a run for class president, Pedro has what it takes to be the hero of first-grade. No matter what he’s doing, Pedro is always good for some laughs and adventure.”

32. Mr. Monkey Bakes a Cake (Mr. Monkey #1) By Jeff Mack

“Curious George meets Mr. Bean in this adorable new picture book series from author-illustrator Jeff Mack that follows the loveable Mr. Monkey on his wacky adventures.

Mr. Monkey bakes a cake. He can’t wait to win a ribbon! But first he has to carry it to the contest. What could possibly go wrong?”

33. I Spy a School Bus By Jean Marzollo

“All new, easy-to-read riddles by Jean Marzollo are paired with fun photographs culled from previously published I Spy books to create an I Spy easy reader. With rhythm, rhyme, and picture clues, this book is written to support the newest reader.”

34. Duck, Duck, Porcupine By Salina Yoon

“Big Duck likes to boss around her younger brother, Little Duck, and she fancies herself the leader of their trio—when joined by their gentle friend Porcupine. Little Duck doesn’t speak yet, but through his expressions and his actions, he shows that he has a better grasp on any situation than his older sister. Told entirely through dialogue and visual storytelling with subtle humor throughout, Little Duck ends up getting the trio out of whatever jam they are in.”

35. Juana & Lucas By Juana Medina

“Juana loves many things — drawing, eating Brussels sprouts, living in Bogotá, Colombia, and especially her dog, Lucas, the best amigo ever. She does not love wearing her itchy school uniform, solving math problems, or going to dance class. And she especially does not love learning the English. Why is it so important to learn a language that makes so little sense? But when Juana’s abuelos tell her about a special trip they are planning—one that Juana will need to speak English to go on—Juana begins to wonder whether learning the English might be a good use of her time after all. Hilarious, energetic, and utterly relatable, Juana will win over los corazones — the hearts — of readers everywhere in her first adventure, presented by namesake Juana Medina.”

36. What Should Danny Do? By Adir Levy

“9 Stories in 1! What Should Danny Do? is an innovative, interactive book that empowers kids with the understanding that their choices will shape their days, and ultimately their lives into what they will be. Written in a “Choose Your Own Story” style, the book follows Danny, a Superhero-in-Training, through his day as he faces choices that kids face on a daily basis. As your children navigate through the different story lines, they will begin to realize that their choices for Danny shaped his day into what it became. And in turn, their choices for themselves can shape their days, and ultimately their lives, into what they will be.”

37. Popcorn Behind the Bush (The Gracie Series) By Grace LaJoy Henderson

“A delightful little mystery about a tin of popcorn. When Grandma sends popcorn in the mail and Gracie does not receive it, Gracie goes on a hunt to find out if her family members can help her decipher a note left by the mailman. Gracie is just about to give up hope when she finally solves the mystery!”

38. Pets at the Party (Pet Club series) By Gwendolyn Hooks

“Lucy is throwing Ajax a birthday party. She remembers balloons, games, and cake. But something is missing. Will the party be ruined?”

39. A Pig, a Fox, and a Box By Jonathan Fenske

“In the style of Mo Willems, Jonathan Fenske tells three humorous stories of two friends, Pig and Fox, and their shenanigans with a cardboard box (all of which involved Pig accidentally crushing Fox in the box). With comic art and simple language, this Level 2 reader is sure to have kids rolling with laughter.”

40. Henry and Mudge: The First Book By Cynthia Rylant

“The first book in the acclaimed Ready-to-Read series from Newbery Medalist Cynthia Rylant featuring Henry and his lovable 180-pound dog, Mudge.

Henry, feeling lonely on a street without any other children, finds companionship and love in a big dog named Mudge.”

41. Eat Your Peas, Louise (Rookie Readers) By Pegeen Snow

“All Rookie Readers actively engage young readers, encouraging language development, building fluency, and promoting independent reading. By targeting a skill, like learning about rhymes, young readers are building fundamental reading skills with the help of fun, lively, colorfully illustrated stories.”

42. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed Some Phonics by Lucille Colandro

Based on the popular “Old Lady Who Swallowed…” series, these books for beginning readers highlight short and long vowel patterns, repetition, and hilarious text to help readers build fluency and comprehension.

Chapter Book Series for Beginning Readers

43. Stink: The Incredible Shrinking Kid (Stink #1)By Megan McDonald

“In his first solo adventure, Judy Moody’s younger bother stars in this funny, homespun saga that reflects the familiar voice of a kid who pictures himself with super powers to deal with the travails of everyday life.”

44. Kenna Ford and the Second Grade Mix-Up By Melissa Thomson

“Keena Ford doesn’t mean to be a troublemaker, but sometimes things get out of hand. Lucky for her, it’s the beginning of the second grade and Keena’s got a clean slate. So when her new second-grade teacher, Ms. Campbell, mistakenly thinks it’s her birthday and brings in a huge chocolate cake, Keena realizes that she’s gotten herself into a sticky situation. She knows she has to tell the truth, but it’s not easy to turn down her very own birthday cake and a chance to wear a sparkly crown. How will Keena get out of this mess?”

“Brought to you by Newbery Honor author Derrick Barnes, eight-year-old Ruby Booker is the baby sis of Marcellus (11), Roosevelt (10), and Tyner (9), the most popular boys on Chill Brook Ave. When Ruby isn’t hanging with her friend, Theresa Petticoat, she’s finding out what kind of mischief her brothers are getting into. She’s sweet and sassy and every bit as tough as her older siblings. She sings like nobody’s business; she has a pet iguana named Lady Love; her favorite color is grape-jelly purple; and when she grows up, she’s going to be the most famous woman animal doctor on the planet. She’s the fabulous, oh-so-spectacular Ruby Marigold Booker!”

“Meet Nikki and Deja, who live next door to each other and are best friends. They do everything together—watch Saturday morning cartoons, play jacks, jump double dutch at recess, and help each other with their homework for Mrs. Shelby’s third-grade class. But when an arrogant new girl arrives and Nikki and Deja form a club that would exclude her, the results are not what they expect. This warm, easy-to-read chapter book from an award-winning author captures all the joys and complexities of elementary school life—particularly friendships and cliques—with finesse and humor.”

47. Ugly Cat and Pablo By Isabel Quintero

“Ugly Cat is dying for a paleta, or ice pop, and his friend Pablo is determined to help him get one by scaring a little girl who is enjoying a coconut paleta in the park. Things go horribly wrong when, instead of being scared, the little girl picks Pablo up and declares that he would make a great snack for her pet snake. Oh and there’s also the small problem that Ugly Cat may have inadvertently swallowed Pablo in all of the commotion!

Ugly Cat and his impeccably dressed mouse friend, Pablo, are an unlikely and dynamic duo who will win young readers over with their ridiculously silly antics and their search for tasty treats.”

48.

“Alexandrea Petrakova Johnson does not want to be a beautiful ballerina, and she does not want to leave her friends in Apple Creek. Unfortunately, that doesn’t stop her ballet-crazy mother from moving them to Harlem, or from enrolling Al at the Nutcracker School of Ballet. Life is hard when you’re the new ballerina on the block, and it’s even harder when you’re chosen to be the Sugar Plum Fairy in the school recital!”

49. Qu e en of the Bee

“If there’s one thing 10-year-old Texan Sophie Washington is good at, it’s spelling. She’s earned straight 100s on all her spelling tests to prove it. Her parents want her to compete in the Xavier Academy spelling bee, but Sophie wishes they would buzz off. That’s until her irritating classmate, Nathan Jones, challenges her. There’s no way she can let Mr. Know-It-All win. Studying is hard when you have a pesky younger brother and a busy social calendar. Can Sophie ignore the distractions and become Queen of the Bee?”

50. Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things (Alvin Ho #1) By Lenore Looks

“Alvin Ho is an Asian American second grader who is afraid of everything—elevators, tunnels, girls, and, most of all, school. He’s so afraid of school that, while he’s there, he never, ever, says a word. But at home he’s a very loud superhero named Firecracker Man, a brother to Calvin and Anibelly, and a gentleman-in-training, so he can be just like his dad.”

I hope your beginning reader will find a book from this list that makes him or her realize, “I can read!” When they are ready, peruse this list of 52 Awesome Children’s Books from 2018 and this list of the 20 Best Children’s Authors.

What are your favorite books for beginning readers? Share your picks in the comments!

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50 Of The Best Books For Beginning Readers | Book Riot

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These picture and chapter books for beginning readers are fun (and easy!) to read for younger children who are learning how to read.

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The Most Exciting Picture Books of 2022 | Brightly

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What will you remember about 2022? Did you move or have a baby? Maybe it was the year all your kids started school. For us, it was the year my husband finally built us a home library. And we've since spent many wonderful hours reading and playing games in that space.

The older I get, the more I see days meld into months, and in the blink of an eye, an entire year passes by. One thing I hope my children remember once they've grown up and left the house is the time we spent snuggling together on the couch or in bed, reading. Building a culture of reading in our home may be one of the most important gifts I can give my girls.

And, while I look forward to compiling "Best Of" book lists every year, it never becomes an easier task. At best, I can narrow it down to about 50 titles published in any given year - and that's being fairly selective. Which is to say this list of the best picture books of 2022 is a bookish delight. It's filled with stories and pages to return to again and again. Now, get reading!

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The Best Picture Books of 2022 | Brightly

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What are the must-read picture books of 2022? See which children's book titles we've chosen as the best of the best.

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A Collection of eBooks. To access the Capstone Library, please visit: http://destiny.garnetvalleyschools.com, choose your child’s school, and click the Home tab for the Capstone link

USERNAME for BSES: bethelsprings

PASSWORD for BSES: school

USERNAME for CES:  concord

PASSWORD for CES: read

USERNAME for GVES:  gves

PASSWORD for GVES: ebook

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The Scholastic Summer Reading program offers kids an exciting, free, and safe summer reading experience, while helping to provide books to kids with limited or no access over the summer, keeping every child reading.

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A Community of Young Readers

Discover New Books | Share Book Reviews | Track Reading

https://bookopolis.com/#/

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Here you will find many challenges, including reading, to keep your child motivated through the summer and beyond.

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Keep scrolling to find fun activities like coloring sheets, apps, videos, and music to download and share with your kids!

Reward your kids with family fun

Looking for a fun and free way to motivate your kiddos to do their chores, finish their homework, practice their teamwork skills and more? Download, print and track progress on our Chuck E. Cheese Rewards Calendars and Behavior Charts for Kids.

Awards and rewards

Download and print out Chuck E.'s Awards & Rewards certificates, then bring them in to Chuck E. Cheese's for 10 free points to use on games, pizza and more!

Print, Color, Win!

Your kids can print, color, and bring their completed coloring sheets on your next visit for free play points!

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Kids' Activities, Songs & Games - Downloads | Chuck E. Cheese

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Keep scrolling to find fun activities like coloring sheets, apps, videos, and music to download and share with your kids! Looking for a fun and free way to motivate your kiddos to do their chores, finish their homework, practice their teamwork skills and more? Download, print and track progress on our Chuck E.

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Once a student completes all 10 books they will earn a free kid’s meal at Applebee’s (when accompanied by an adult making a purchase).

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This reading-focused reward program encourages students ages 10 or younger to read at least 10 books that they record on their Bookworm Club record card. This program can be utilized by schools and/or libraries and be promoted how the educators deem fit-as a summer reading program, school-year program, etc.

Once a student completes all 10 books they will earn a free kid's meal at Applebee's (when accompanied by an adult making a purchase).

Contact Alix Beaver at abeaver@tlcannon.com to order these cards.
*Please note, T.L. Cannon owns 60 Applebee's Grill + Bar restaurants throughout Upstate New York, Connecticut and Sayre, PA. With every Applebee's restaurant privately owned + operated, this program is specific to the locations owned by T.L. Cannon. If you are not located in Upstate NY, CT, or Sayre, PA, we encourage you to reach-out to your local Applebee's location specifically, to find-out what programs they offer.

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Bookworm Reading Club | T.L. Cannon in the Community

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This reading-focused reward program encourages students ages 10 or younger to read at least 10 books that they record on their Bookworm Club record card. This program can be utilized by schools and/or libraries and be promoted how the educators deem fit-as a summer reading program, school-year program, etc.

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Username and Password: Students and teachers should use their Google sign-in to access Newsela at home this summer.

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New Beginning Chapter Books for Ages 6 to 9

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New Beginning Chapter Books for Ages 6 to 9

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I’m thrilled to introduce you to these new beginning chapter books! Quirky, heartwarming, historical, this list has something for everyone…

Beginning Chapter Books for Ages 6 to 9

Monday into the Cave of Thieves (Total Mayhem #1) by Ralph Lazar
Wild and quirky, this un-put-downable adventure filled with illustrations is perfect for you if you like good vs. evil adventures where kid power saves the day! Dash Candoo’s Monday is one crazy adventure after another with Devil Cat attacks, a quadcycle pursuit, a math class secret tunnel, stolen perfume, and so much more. I’m a big fan of this exciting, readable new chapter book and look forward to more books in the entertaining new series. (P.S. And it’s funny with zero potty humor!)

Cranky Chicken by Katherine Battersby
Learn how Cranky Chicken and a worm named Speedy become friends when Cranky “saves” Speedy from a leaf! Subsequent stories with light-hearted, tongue-in-cheek humor show our new friends, Worm and Cranky Chicken, working together to figure out how to be best-feathered friends –even though Worm doesn’t have feathers. Humor and heart — this is a delightful graphic novel that is sure to be a new favorite.

Good Dog by Cam Higgins, illustrated by Ariel Landy
What a sweet beginning illustrated chapter book written from Bo the dog’s point of view! Enthusiastic and full of personality, Bo adores his loving family and his life on the farm. But he worries when his dog tag goes missing. He searches the farm with the help of all the farm animals and his spider friends help him find it. Your readers will love this new series with a darling doggie narrator! Get the first 4 books in 1!

Mrs. Frogbottom’s Field Trips I Want My Mummy by Nancy Krulik
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.

Our Principal is a Scaredy-Cat by Stephanie Calmenson, illustrated by Aaron Blecha
Get ready for a silly story with an edge of scary! The principal, Mr. Bundt, finds a hat on the way to school. He never realizes (*but readers do) that the hat belongs to someone — and that someone wants it back. Scared at the voice who demands the hat’s return, he asks the magician for help. Luckily, the (skeleton) owner gets his hat back and stops haunting Mr. Bundt. Goofy and fun.

Nugget and Hot Dog by Jason Tharp
Perfect for readers who like silliness, puns, and good conquering evil, this is the story of two friends, Dog and Nugget, who live in Gastropolis and start a kindness club to fight evil like the dastardly Dijon Mustard. (NOTE: This book reads more like a beginning chapter book than an early reader because of the complex vocabulary so even though it says Level 2, I disagree with the leveling.)

The Odyssey and Henry’s Box: The Adventures of Charlie & Baxter by Sarah J. Aris, illustrated by Sarah Nieves
Siblings find a robot in their basement and use their coding ability to make it time travel back to 1849 where they help Henry “Box” Brown ship himself out of slavery. I’m excited to see kids of color in a historical time travel book!

Geraldine Pu and Her Lunch Box, Too by Maggie P. Chang
In a familiar story (already in many picture books), this beginning graphic novel shows the hurt and angry feelings that happen when a boy makes fun of Geraldine’s lunch. Initially, Geraldine feels awful and wants to bring something different to eat but she eventually embraces her favorite foods prepared by her Amah and helps another boy do the same — even when other kids say it’s stinky. A wonderful back-to-school graphic novel that shows the importance of pride in your own identity and acceptance of differences.

KEEP READING:

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New Beginning Chapter Books for Ages 6 to 9

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I'm thrilled to introduce you to these new beginning chapter books! Quirky, heartwarming, historical, this list has something for everyone... Beginning

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American Library Association's Notable Children's Books of 2023

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American Library Association's Notable Children's Books of 2023

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Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC)

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Each year a committee of the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) identifies the best of the best in children’s books. According to the Notables Criteria, “notable” is defined as: Worthy of note or notice, important, distinguished, outstanding. As applied to children’s books, notable s…

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12 Outrageously Funny Graphic Novels for Reluctant Young Readers

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12 Outrageously Funny Graphic Novels for Reluctant Young Readers

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Some kids have a natural affinity for reading. They're the kids who not only have a favorite book but often find almost any reading material interesting. Other kids need more encouragement to explore the world of reading. The best motivation for a reluctant reader is to entice them with books they can't help but love.

Graphic novels create a natural entry point for turning a reluctant reader into a book lover. These selections are full of humor - wordplay, slapstick, silly scenarios, and oddball premises - that make them irresistible.

Pro tip: Don't impose these on your stubborn reader. Merely show them the book and say, "This one looks like something you might like." Leave it on a table or the arm of the couch and (stealthily) watch. They're sure to pick it up and be chuckling soon.

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Outrageously Funny Graphic Novels for Kids | Brightly

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Some kids have a natural affinity for reading. They're the kids who not only have a favorite book but often find almost any reading material interesting. Other kids need more encouragement to explore the world of reading. The best motivation for a reluctant reader is to entice them with books they can't help but love.

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Multicultural Books for Children: 60+ Book Lists

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Multicultural Books for Children: 60+ Book Lists

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Inside: Celebrate diversity and culture with this vast collection of multicultural books for children! Includes 60+ book lists, from toddlers through big kids.
I was dismayed to discover that the number of multicultural books for children that have been published hasn't increased during the last 18 years. All this is despite census data showing 37% of the US population consists of people of color.
This graphic is from Lee and Low publishers.
I have posted a large number of book lists focusing on multicultural books for children (some my own creations but others that I've happily discovered).

I am organizing them all here in hopes that more people will read multicultural children's books. Hopefully, this will spark an interest that will lead to more books depicting people of color being published. Moreover, if you are an essay writer who needs materials to write something on multi-culture topics, this list will be a great source.

If you want to deepen your kid's absorption of multicultural reading, then custom bookmarks and stickers would be a great choice as memory keepers and reminders. You can customize them aligned with any highlighted themes, events, and ideas in the books. Create more fun while reading. Furthermore, if you are a bookstore owner, go with some customized bookmarks and stickers with your store logo as promotional gifts, which is a great support to multiculturalism as well.

Also, anyone can create their own digital book and make it interactive by adding videos, images, and buttons with flipbook software. Children will have a great experience when flipping through the pages.

For all of my book lists, please see List of Lists: All My Book Lists (300+)

p.s. Here is another list of classic Best Books for Children from BestBooks.to website.

Multicultural books for children: 60+ Book Lists

I've broken down my multicultural lists by:

Multicultural Book Lists for Kids (a catch-all for those lists that don't fit the categories below)

Civil Rights Movement Books for Kids

Asian American Books for Kids with subcategories

Korean American Books for Kids

Japanese American Books for Kids

Chinese American Books for Kids

Southeast Asian Books for Kids

Native American Books for Kids

Hispanic American Books for Kids

Arab American Books for Kids

LGBTQ Books for Kids

Multicultural Book Lists for Kids
White Privilege Books for Kids A Unit on Skin Color: Children's Books & Videos Immigration and the Refugee Experience Books for Kids 50 Must Read Diversity Picture Books Homelessness in Children's Books Special Needs Books for Kids Chapter Book Series Starring Diverse Girl Characters Picture Books to Teach Gratitude Top 10 Diverse Superhero Books 10 Picture Books About Africa to Teach Empathy W Favorite Diversity Picture Books for 4th of July Great Diverse Books from Peachtree Publishing Top 1o Favorite Diversity Books For Kids By Kids Top 10 Multicultural Books for Kids ages 2-14 Books for Kids About Cambodia Children's Africana Book Award Top 10 Multicultural Board Books for Babies and Toddlers Top 10 Best Multicultural Easy Readers Best Multicultural Chapter Books 10 Amazing Multicultural Picture Books About Helping Others 17 Wonderful Multicultural Picture Books About Food 5 Amazing Diversity Read Alouds Multicultural Adoption Books for Kids 5 Feel-Good Picture Books About Africa Top 10 Multicultural Dance Picture Books for Kids Top 50: Best Multicultural Children's Books Top 10: Best World Religion Children's Books Chapter Books to Support 4th Grade or 5th Grade Immigration Unit Great Biographies from Author Paula Yoo Multicultural Soccer Books for Kids Best Multicultural YA Books A Unit to Learn About the Tokyo Olympics Best Multicultural YA Books for Teens 25 Diversity Authors and Illustrators for Kids Spotlighted Black History Month with Carole Boston Weatherford Civil Rights Movement Through Art and Books for Kids HARLEM: Found Ways art exhibit and Children's Books Reflecting Harlem Civil Rights Movement Books for 4th Grade Top 10: Best Children's Books On Civil Rights Movement Top 10: Best African-American Picture Books (ages 4-12) Ruby Bridges and Picture Book As Fast as Words Could Fly Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr with Three Books 5th Grade Social Studies And How to Make It Interesting 5th Grade Enslavement Unit Books 3 Amazing Wordless Picture Books Top 10: Best Asian American Books by CoolAsianKids Asian in America (Amy Chua, new Asian KidLit, dumpling recipe!) Exploring Vietnam: Culture and KitLit Sri Lanka with Kids Books, Recipe and Design Exploring Laos with Books for Kids, Culture and Art Bangladesh: Culture, Alpanas, Children's Books, Recipe and More! 15 Great Korean Folk Tales Top 10: Korean American Children's Books (ages 2-16) Discovering Korea for Kids with Kids' Books, Art and Food Korean-American Picture Book Teaches Multicultural Lesson Japanese Internment Books for Kids Learning About Japan Picture Books for Kids Connecting Science and Art: Hokusai's The Great Wave In Memory of Hiroshima Bombing Books and Crane Origami for Kids Top 10: Japanese American Children's Books (ages 2-16) Let's Go Fly a Kite! Best Bilingual Japanese Books for Kids Japan: Books for Kids on Shogun, Family Crests, Block Prints Japanese American Post Internment Story: Journey Home (ages 8-12) Chinese New Year Picture Books INSTEAD of Tiki Tiki Tembo Top 10: Chinese American Children's Books (ages 2-14) Top 10: Best Chinese New Year Books for Kids 4th of July Picture Books with an Asian Twist Asian American Chapter Book for Girls Percy Jackson + Chinese Mythology = The Monkey King's Daughter Top 10: Best Southeast Asian American Children's Books (ages 2-14) 4th Grade Skype Author Visit: Sheela Chari of Vanished Contemporary Native Americans in KidLit Plimoth Plantation: Learning About Native Americans Top 10: Native American Children's Books (ages 2-16) Top 10: Best Native American Middle School Books Top 10: Best Native American Picture Book Top 10: Best Native American Young Adult Books Notable Native American Children's Author: Joseph Bruchac The Navajo Code Talkers of WWII Best Bilingual Spanish Picture Books Top 10 Hispanic American Heritage Books for Kids Top 10 Bilingual Spanish Books for Kids Top 10: Best Latino American Children's Books (ages 2-16) The Américas Award Hispanic American Books for Kids: Link Round Up 18 Wonderful Picture Books about the Arab World 27 Books for Kids About the Arab World Top 10: Middle Eastern American Children's Books Five Muslim Girl Characters to Read Today Middle East Outreach Council Award How To: Teach Your Children About Islam (and tolerance in the process!) Life in Afghanistan for Girls The Pharoah's Secret at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts 10 Groundbreaking LGBTQ Children's Books Understanding Transgender with LGBTQ Books for Kids To examine any book more closely at Amazon, please click on image of book. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Food for the Future: Sustainable Farms Around the World

Junior Library Guild Gold selection

Selected as one of 100 Outstanding Picture Books of 2023 by dPICTUS and featured at the Bologna Children's Book Fair

Starred review from School Library Journal

anting to Go To School Books: When School is a Privilege
Africa Access was founded in 1989 to help schools, public libraries, and parents improve the quality of their K-12 collections on Africa.

It was surprisingly hard to find board books with diversity and inclusive themes.

I searched my public library for the best diversity easy readers.

These books are from the 2015 Notable Books for a Global Society Award, for middle grade readers ages 8 and up.

I hope these picture books inspire readers about the power of one ... just one person can do amazing things!

My favorite way to learn about new cultures is through food. Explore with me as we read (and eat as recipes are linked) around the world!

These are some of my very favorite diversity chapter books that I hope can read with your kids too!

These five books show different perspectives from the story of a young Masaii girl who wants to touch the moon to visiting family in Tanzania and The Gambia.

May all dancers of color be inspired to reach for their dreams with this book list.

This covers many ethnicities and is categorized by genre.

We are "homeschooling" world religion.

Our elementary school does an immigration unit using these chapter books. I've also added a few newly published books as well.

I hope this list inspires children, parents, and teachers to visit their local libraries and explore the biography bookshelves! I've also included many biographies below featuring diverse historical characters.

View soccer as it's played around the world through the eyes of these picture books.

These are the Young Adult books from the 2015 Notable Books for a Global Society.

I'm new to YA so I was excited to discover this great list.

Civil Rights Movement Books for Kids

My kids study the Civil Rights Movement in the United States in 4th grade and I'm pleased to see a handful of important and often, award-winning, picture books, chapter books, and Young Adult books published each year.

This list covers picture books, chapter books, and young adult.

If you read these picture books in order, it gives an overview of the African-American experience historically starting from slavery to the present day.

Meeting Ruby Bridges was a thrill for me and further reinforced how important it is for kids to learn about the Civil Rights Movement.

Young Booker T. Washington: Fifty Cents and a Dream.

An advanced picture book that paints a portrait of Booker T. Washington as a determined young boy.

If you just want a snapshot of the Civil Rights Movement for young children, try these three books: two picture books and a chapter book.

I have a section in this post about the Civil Rights Movement.

Black History Month Books for Kids and Teens

Asian American Books for Kids

One of the most exciting things for me about blogging was discovering Asian American books for kids.

This genre was just starting to emerge a few years ago when I started blogging. Growing up, I read extensively but I never found books that were like me - an Asian American 2nd and 3rd generation girl living in the suburbs. I'm thrilled to find that this is no longer the case.

Recognizing Children's Books for AAPI Heritage Month (a huge list)

I love these wordless picture books by Asian and Asian American authors/illustrators so much that I made videos of them on my Instagram.

CoolAsianKids made a wonderful list of their favorite Asian American KidLit.

These recently published books show the new diversity of Asian American KidLit as well as the high quality of this genre.

APALA Awards for Best Asian American Children's Books 2013

The Asian Pacific American Libraries Association has announced their 2013 literature award winners.

I created a series of posts a while back that I called Teach Me Tuesday. I wanted to explore a country using children's books as well as different elements of their culture from art to food to artisans. This was the first post I did of this series on Vietnam (and my best one!). The Teach Me Tuesday series is here.

A friend from Sri Lanka gave me a recipe that he loved as a child and this sparked this post. Finding the books is always the toughest part for me.

The more I learned about Laos, the more I want to go to this mysterious, beautiful and tragic country.

Korean American Books for Kids

I'm half Chinese and Japanese and I married a Korean. My first lists of multicultural books for children were on these three ethnicities as a way to show my children their heritage. The Korean American culture is so strong in America that this first post went viral.

This is the first post of mine ever to go viral.

I wanted to learn more about my husband's family history so this is a very personal journey of discovery.

I don't often do individual book reviews but finding this great Asian American book at the library made me want to post on it.

Japanese American Books for Kids

For your young ninja, books to learn about Japan.

It's amazing how a single piece of art can have a ripple effect, inspiring others all around the world and for many generations.

WWII Internment seems to dominate Japanese American books for kids. I agree that it is an important lesson in history - my own mother was forced to relocate but I also hunger for books that explore other facets of being Japanese American.

Kite flying is an important ritual in Asia and I've rounded up every great kite flying book thanks to a little help from my friends and readers.

This was my response to a reader request.

I explore my own Japanese history in this post.

These older books explore the Japanese American internment experience during WWII, a shameful chapter in America's history.

Chinese American Books For Kids

There is such a diversity of Chinese American books for kids from philosophy, culture and contemporary times.

I wanted to show the breadth and depth of Chinese American books for kids. These were our favorites.

I never had a great Chinese New Year picture book despite always doing a Chinese New Year presentation for my children's preschool so I was determined to upgrade!

Fourth of July from a Chinese American immigrant's perspective via picture books. Yep, this is what I blog about!

Lisa Yee portrays the dilemmas of modern day Asian American kids caught between assimilation and Tiger parents.

A Chinese mythology action-adventure series.

Southeast Asian Books for Kids

Southeast Asian culture and books are foreign to me too so I wanted to learn more.

Sheela Chari's debut mystery chapter book is award winning!

Native American Books For Kids

My first list was criticized by Debbie Reese, the preeminent scholar on this topic, for including books that she did not feel accurately depicted the Native Americans. My response was to repost her great lists!

Do kids think that Native Americans are only the past? This list will hopefully change that!

What to read when preparing for a visit to Plimoth Plantation.

This is the list I made.

Debbie Reese's list for middle-grade chapter books.

Debbie Reese's list for picture books.

Debbie Reese's list of YA books is very popular.

I am a huge fan of Joseph Bruchac, a happy discovery from chatting with my librarian when creating my list.

The author of this advanced picture book lives one town over!

Hispanic American Books for Kids

My guest author Derek Taylor Kent comes up with his list for best bilingual Spanish picture books for kids.

I'm noticing some great Hispanic American KidLit lately across all children's book genres!

I'm doing a round-up of Hispanic books for kids of all ages, from picture books to young adult.

Arab American Books for Kids

This is my collection of the best picture books I've read so far about the Arab world.

In the wake of the conflicts in the Middle East, I thought it especially important for kids to learn about Islam and the people of the Middle East which might also teach them tolerance in the process. There is so much negative stereotyping during a war that can color a child's perspective.

Deborah Ellis's Parvana series shows a realistic view of what life is like in Afghanistan for girls today. It's heartbreaking but also so important.

Chapter book The Pharoah's Secret by Marissa Moss discovered in Boston's Museum of Fine Arts. Did I find Senenmut, Hatshepsut's love there?!

LBGTQ Books for Kids

More lists and reviews of diverse, inclusive, and multicultural books for children from KidLit bloggers here on my Pinterest board:

Follow PragmaticMom's board Multicultural Books for Kids on Pinterest.

My books:

Amazon / Barefoot Books / Signed or Inscribed by Me

Amazon / Scholastic / Signed or Inscribed by Me

BEST #OWNVOICES CHILDREN'S BOOKS: My Favorite Diversity Books for Kids Ages 1-12 is a book that I created to highlight books written by authors who share the same marginalized identity as the characters in their books.

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Multicultural Books for Children: 60+ Book Lists

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Inside: Celebrate diversity and culture with this vast collection of multicultural books for children! Includes 60+ book lists, from toddlers through big kids. I was dismayed to discover that the number of multicultural books for children that have been published hasn't increased during the last 18 years.

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The Ultimate Guide to Early Chapter Book Series

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The Ultimate Guide to Early Chapter Book Series

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This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
How can you know which chapter books are best for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade?

This post will help you out!
This post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy here. Have you every tried to navigate the early chapter book section of the library?
There are Just. So. Many to choose from.

How can you tell which series is right for each learner?

How do you know which series are free of name-calling, potty talk and backtalk?

How can you know which series won't feel babyish to an older, struggling reader?

Do you really have to read ALL THE BOOKS to find out?

Nope.

Because I read them for you!
I've spent the last 6 months reading and reviewing 250 early chapter book series for kids in grades 1-3.
Curious about a particular series? Just scroll through the list to find it; they're in alphabetical order. Or if you're in a hurry, click here for a printable list.

The Ultimate Guide to Early Chapter Book Series
Looking for a book by title? Use these links to jump to the section you need.
This is a wonderful series featuring Ellray Jakes' younger sister (see the Ellray Jakes series further down in this list). Alfie is the younger sister in a loving African-American family living in suburbia. Warner shares Alfie's interesting second grade adventures while also portraying loving family relationships. Warner's books read like good stand-alone novels, not like so many early chapter book series which feel mass-produced. Strongly recommended! (Currently 4 books in the series)

Ada Lace is an 8-year-old girl who loves science and technology - and I love that the series is written by another female who loves science (and happens to have both aerospace and aeronautics degrees). It's also nice to find a series aimed at girls which isn't about fairies and unicorns. Ada is both intelligent and relatable, and the author integrates science concepts in a natural way. (Currently 5 books in the series)

This is a classic monster series about a group of third graders. In each book they believe an authority figure is a monster of some sort, try to prove it, and don't really get any final resolution (or at least that's my take on it). The books are a little creepy, but never too scary. I've never gotten into this series, but they've been very popular since the 90's. If your learners get hooked on them, that's great - because there are over 80 books in the series.

Written by the author of the Melvin Beederman, Superhero series, these books are about a fourth-grade girl hero - Jo Schmo. Jo comes from a long line of crime fighters, and it's her turn to join the family business. The book is well written with clever jokes and funny wordplay. My only issue is that Jo Schmo is excessively boy crazy; while it's completely harmless, that may make this series better suited for older, struggling readers than for young advanced readers.

This is a friendly, gentle series about young animals. The books are sweet and well-written. Personally, I found them a little too sunshine-y (and sickeningly sweet), but I appreciate the positive storylines and the strong vocabulary. These are best for young readers; they might feel babyish to older, struggling readers. (Currently 14 books in the series)

Amelia is a young girl who believes she's a very important secret agent saving the word from dastardly villains. In each book she uses her "brains, guts, and gadgets to take on evil geniuses." Each book features three secret agent case files. The plots are a bit ridiculous, but funny. Good choice for young advanced readers. (4 books in the series)

This is a beautiful series by the author of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency (my favorite fiction series for adults - you've got to check it out!). Akimbo's father is the head ranger on a game preserve in Africa. Each book focuses on a different animal ( Akimbo and the Lion, Akimbo and the Elephants, etc.) Akimbo faces danger and adventure as he looks out for his animal friends. This is an excellent series that would also be great for reading aloud. (5 books in the series)

This is an entertaining series about a boy who meets a tiny (yet powerful) alien who crashes in his bedroom. I love how the author integrates science concepts in a relatable way, but I'm not crazy about the very negative relationship between the main character and his brother. (8 books in the series)

I love, love, love this series. It's about Alvin, an Asian American second grader who has anxiety about many things. It's laugh-out-loud funny without being mean-spirited. There's some sibling tension, but nothing too serious - and I absolutely love the close relationship between Alvin and his father. I think the content would be a little challenging for young advanced readers, but you could try reading one together first. There are about 6 books in this all-around great series.

There are two sets of Amber Brown books, but only one is a chapter book series. Please note that this review is of the Amber Brown books and not the "A is for Amber" series. Amber Brown is a fourth grader with divorced parents who is learning to navigate new relationships.

There's a fair amount of gross talk ("farting," picking noses, etc.) and some topics that are a bit heavy for really young kids (divorced parents not getting along, etc.). That said, the books are interesting and well written; I just wouldn't recommend them for advanced young readers. (12 books in the series)

Amelia Bedelia chapter book series, by Herman Parish
guided reading level: O

While I grew up loving the original Amelia Bedelia books by Peggy Parish, I'm less than impressed with this new chapter book series by her nephew. I find them boring and hard to get through, and I think that a lot of the jokes would go over young readers' heads. The stories aren't horrible, just uninteresting (in my opinion). At least 11 books in the series.

I tried (and tried!), but I just couldn't get into this series about a boy who travels through space and time. Similar to the Magic School Bus books, the series is a mixture of fantasy and scientific facts. The books are best read in order, as they often end with a cliffhanger. (At least 18 books in the series)

When I pick up a David Adler book, I'm reasonably confident that it will be a quality, well-written book. The Andy Russell series is no exception. Kids will enjoy reading about likable, day-dreaming Andy's misadventures. Recommended for older, struggling readers. (6 books in the series)

These are very basic illustrated chapter books with large font and spacing. Andy Shane is a nice little boy who lives with his grandmother and faces the typical challenges of childhood. I didn't find the books very interesting, but kids might feel differently. Worth a try for kids ready to read longer text but not longer chapter books. (Currently 6 books in the series.)

This is a beautiful series about Anna Hibiscus, a young girl who lives in modern-day Africa with her loving family. The stories are both entertaining and touching, and you'll find many opportunities for discussion. I was uncomfortable with the religious undertones in the book I read (Anna Hibiscus has many conversations with her dead grandfather), but other than that I highly recommend them. (8 books in the series)

This series came after the popular Henry and Mudge series and features Henry's cousin Annie and her pet bunny, Snowball. The books have easy-to-read storylines and wholesome fun. But I personally find this series less engaging and a little too girly. (12 books in the series)

I love this simple series about adventures in first grade. The simple stories and large font make these a great transition to chapter books. They're also a good choice for advanced young readers. (4 books in the series)

While these books won't win any awards for outstanding children's literature, Marc Brown's Arthur books are a fine series for young readers. In each book the plot features Arthur the aardvark or one of his friends. While I don't generally promote books that are an offshoot of a television show, this series about Arthur and his friends can stand on its own. (Over 33 books)

This is a series of 26 books about three third graders who solve crimes and mysteries. It features one book for each letter of the alphabet. These are quick reads and great for mystery lovers who are new to chapter books.

This is a completely bizarre (and frankly, hilarious) set of chapter books that feel more like graphic novels. My older kids laugh out loud when reading these (and frequently read me a funny page). However, I don't recommend them for young readers because of the bizarre (and sometimes off-color) humor, the @##&* used in place of swear words, and even the political messages that the author squeezes into the books.

I think the good outweighs the bad, but these books can also be completely off-the-wall, and I don't recommend them for our youngest readers. (Currently 10 books in the series)

This series combines Rosie's love for ballet with her ongoing relationships with family and friends. The occasional black-and-white illustrations give good support. (6 books in the series)

This is a great series for baseball-loving kids who also enjoy mysteries. Mike and Kate are two cousins who use their sharp detective skills to solve mysteries around the ballpark. Easy to read, and fun to help solve. Recommended! (At least 14 books in the series)

Bea Garcia is a relatable, likable second grader who draws pictures of everything in her life. While the illustrations are cute, I find them a bit distracting. For that reason, this may not be the best series for kids who struggle with comprehension. Also note that the books have a fair amount of name-calling. (Currently 3 books in the series)

This is an older series (1994-2006), but it's still very relatable. Beany's problems (not wanting to go to summer camp, being paired with a difficult kid for a science project, etc.) are timeless. These are entertaining, well-written, and just plain good books. (5 books in the series)

This is a fun series about two best friends - one tiny, one tall. These will be welcomed by kids who are new to chapter books because the pages are mostly full color illustrations (indeed, the pictures tell much of the story). Teachers will like them because they include strong vocabulary and plenty of opportunities for making inferences. Since each chapter is a stand alone story, these would work great for guided reading lessons. (3 books in the series.)

This fun chapter book series mixes school, monsters, and common kid problems. It's a great choice for reluctant readers, as the stories and illustrations are engaging, and the speech bubbles give the series a comic-book feel. One odd thing about the series is that the text is very large, making you think the book is for younger readers. But many of the jokes and puns will fly over their heads, putting the series at level N. (32 books in the series)
Black Lagoon Adventures, by Mike Thaler
guided reading level: N
Boris is a young warthog who lives with his mom and dad in Hogg Bay. Boris is charming and likable, and the books are heavily illustrated with just a few sentences per page. This is a great series for kids transitioning to chapter books. (Currently 4 books in the series)

The original Boxcar Children is one of my favorite books of all time. It's the story of four orphaned children who run away to the woods and make their home in an old boxcar. The idea of a group of siblings trying to survive on their own in the woods is fascinating for kids of any generation.

Unfortunately, I've never enjoyed the mystery series that follows the original book. The characters are flat and uninteresting, and while I appreciate positive sibling relationships, theirs is sticky sweet. However, the books are safe and clean, and I'd consider it a win if your learners get into them. I remember that my sister loved them as a kid.

Warner wrote the original 19 books. A variety of different authors have penned the 130 books that follow them.

Isabel, also known as Bunjitsu Bunny, is the best bunjitsu artist in her school. Each chapter tells a kid-friendly story in large text with plenty of spacing. Illustrations are plentiful. Martial arts students will especially love this series, as each chapter includes a lesson/moral that they may have already learned from their martial arts instructor. (Currently 4 books in the series)

I like seeing author Ron Roy's name on a book cover, because I know that the book will have kind characters, no potty humor, and adults who are patient and dependable. This is a spin-off of the A-Z Mysteries series by the same author, but in these books it's the younger siblings who are solving the mysteries - one for each month and an extra one for New Year's. Consider it a big win if your learners get hooked on any of Ron Roy's mystery series. (13 books in the series)

This historical fiction series is absolutely wonderful. Calpurnia Tate is an animal-loving 11-year-old who also happens to have six brothers. Since the story is set in 1901, the children have no technology to keep them busy. Instead, they spend their time outdoors observing nature and helping lost or injured animals. If you're familiar with the original novels, be aware that this spin-off series is shorter and at a lower reading level. (Currently 5 books in the series)

These are well written and entertaining books about a boy in Hawaii who lives with his mom and little sister after his famous dad left them. Calvin is in fourth grade, but the themes feel older than that. There's a lot of bullying in the book, a fair amount of girlfriend/boyfriend talk, and a live-in babysitter who is just plain mean. I call this a good choice for older, struggling readers, but not one I'd recommend for young advanced readers. There are 9 books in the series.

You can't go wrong with this classic series about a fifth grade girl detective with a photographic memory. The first book was published in 1980, and the most recent was published in 2014. I loved these as a kid, and they were the series that got my reluctant second grade reader to start reading chapter books. Quality, clean fiction. (34 books in the series)

The candy fairies live in Sugar Valley where jelly beans grow on vines, and chocolate eggs ripen in nests. The stories feature adventure, magic, and candy.

I started reading one of these aloud to my 5-year-old (at her request) and couldn't make it past the first few pages.

I mean, really ...
"The sun was sliding toward the top of the Frosted Mountains. Soon it would be Sun Dip, the time of day when Berry and her Candy Fairy friends got together at Licorice Lake to watch the sunset. They liked to catch up with one another and eat sweet treats."
All that said, the books are harmless - and I wouldn't discourage kids from reading them (just be sure to nudge them toward more quality literature as appropriate). At least 12 books in the series.

This series features KC, the president's stepdaughter, and her best friend Marshall as they solve mysteries around Washington, D.C. The stories feel a bit far-fetched at times (like the fact that these two children explore D.C. unsupervised), but young mystery lovers will enjoy them. To my knowledge, the books have no crude humor, sassiness, or name calling. (Currently 14 books in the series)

Eugene McGillicuddy invents his very own superhero alter ego - Captain Awesome. He fights crime with his best friend and sidekick, Charlie (Nacho Cheese Man). There are small amounts of potty humor and abrasive language ("stupid," etc.), but overall I think this is a good transition book to more challenging chapter books, as it has large font and spacing. (At least 21 books in the series)

This is the only children's series that I won't allow in my house. I can't even count the number of potty jokes, bullying incidents, name-calling, and other trash. I may be in the minority here - this is a hugely popular series, and it gets kids to read.

But here's the thing.What if all our kids wanted to eat was hot dogs and ice cream? Our response would not be, "Well, at least they're eating!" In the same way, I don't excuse garbage literature by saying "At least it gets kids to read!" And unlike junk food (which I think is okay in moderation), I don't think there needs to be any room for books like this.

If you think I'm overreacting, please read one for yourself before giving it to your kids. I think the length of this blog post should prove that there are many, many other series to tempt reluctant readers.

Off soapbox.

This is a companion series to Nikki & Deja, and features the same students in their third grade classroom. The series features children of different ethnic backgrounds in a suburban setting and includes themes like bullying, making new friends, and good decision-making. (Currently 4 books in the series)

This is a classic set of books that I loved as a child. The books are beautifully written and absolutely enchanting. Mrs. Jane Tabby can't explain why her four kittens were born with wings, but she's thankful that they can fly away from the dangerous city slums where they were born. All children should read or hear Catwings before they grow up. (4 books in the series)

I consider this series one of the best discoveries I made when creating this list. Charlie Bumpers is a likable, relatable fourth grader. He tends to be messy and impulsive - leading to some unfavorable consequences. Readers will identify with everyday problems - like a teasing older brother and a mother who buys him new tennis shoes that he doesn't like. The stories are extremely well-written and don't have potty talk or gross humor (hurray!). Highly recommended for both young advanced readers and older, struggling readers. Currently 7 books total.

This series features the loving relationship between two brothers, Charlie and Mouse.Each book is a gorgeous blend of picture and chapter book, making the series perfect for kids venturing into chapter books. It's charming series worth a permanent spot on your home or school shelf. (Currently 3 books in the series).

Josephine Kathryn-Smith is a third grader who goes by the nickname Cinderella since she's always losing one of her shoes. This is a well-written, refreshing series which touches on the usual challenges of growing up (wanting ears pierced, preparing for a spelling bee, dealing with the mean girl at school, etc.). Recommended for young advanced readers as well as older, struggling readers. (Currently 3 books in the series)

This is a series about the adventures of an endearing dog named Wag and his best friend, Sir Bobblysock (who is a sock but still has a winning personality). The series has so much going for it - the beautiful writing style, clever story-telling, and spectacular illustrations. What I don't like is the detail in a minority of the pictures - women in curvy bikinis, large busts, and a rear-end poking out of a tightrope walker's costume. I think the series' strengths outweigh these issues, but I feel it's important to point them out. (Currently 7 books in the series.)

Clementine, by Sara Pennypacker
Level O

This is a quality series about Clementine, an energetic and precocious third grader. The books don't have the same innocence as the classic Ramona the Pest series, but the plot lines are pretty tame. I could do without the occasional boyfriend/girlfriend talk among third graders, which is why I recommend this series for older, struggling readers rather than for young advanced readers. (Currently 7 books in the series)

This is a gentle, wholesome series about Lily, Tess, and Rosie, three best friends who also happen to be cousins. Young readers may enjoy following the gentle love story between the girls' Aunt Lucy and kind, shy Michael. (6 books in the series)

This is a series that deserves to be more popular. It's an easy-reader chapter book series about Cork, a short and serious muskrat, and his friend Fuzz - a tall possum who likes to have fun. The stories are witty, funny, and sweet. I only wish there were more than 10 books in the series.

This is a lovely, easy-to-read series about a girl and her horse. The stories are gentle and funny, and the illustrations are wonderful. The books are quite short and similar in difficulty to Henry and Mudge, Poppleton, and Mr. Putter and Tabby. (Currently 6 books in the series)

The Critter Club is a group of four best friends who form a rescue shelter to save lost and lonely animals. While the stories aren't anything spectacular, I think girls would like them. The characters are loyal and thoughtful, and the series has no name-calling, potty talking, or sibling nastiness. (At least 19 books in the series)

This is a gentle series about Daisy Dawson, a wholesome and carefree little girl who talks to animals (and understands what they say to her). You won't find anything questionable, gross, or dark in these books. A challenge, though, is that there are so many animal characters that it can be hard to keep track of them. For that reason, I wouldn't recommend this series to someone who is new to chapter books and/or doesn't do well at retelling what h/she read. But it could make a great read aloud if you are willing to change your voice for the animals. (Currently 5 books in the series

You know a book is good when you, as an adult, will pick it up and enjoy reading it all on your own. That's how I feel about the Danny's Doodles series - and I have no doubt that kids will also enjoy the adventures of Danny and his quirky friend Calvin Waffle, along with the black-and-white doodles on every page. I appreciate that the characters are realistic and relatable while also being kind, honest, and generous. This series is a welcome change from the mouthiness and name-calling we find in so many early chapter books. Highly recommended! (Currently 3 books in the series ... I hope more are coming!)

What a great series! Gabe, Laura, and Caesar are a group of smart kids that everyone calls the Data Set. The large font, fantastic illustrations, and interesting storylines add to their adventures. Bonus! The books integrate science knowledge so naturally that kids won't even realize they're learning. Recommended! (Currently 7 books in the series)

This is a wonderful series about the adventures of Digby and Percy, two dogs who happen to be best friends. I love that there are just a few sentences on each page, and the illustrations by Clara Vulliamy (the author's daughter!) are pure delight. Strongly recommended! (3 books in the series)

Mike Evans is the son of a famous paleontologist who travels the world in search of dinosaur fossils. Dinosaur-lovers will enjoy this fast-paced mix of reality and fantasy (dinosaur eggs hatch, time traveling, etc.). The books use easy vocabulary but have an interesting enough storyline to interest older readers. I wouldn't call the books high quality literature, but they're a fine choice. (Currently 8 books in the series)

Dinosaur lovers will enjoy this series about Tom and Jamie, two friends who discover the secret entrance to a world of dinosaurs. These books have short chapters and vivid black-and-white illustrations. (About 24 books in the series)

I'll start by saying that the first book in this series made me laugh so hard I cried. I read it aloud to my kids a few years ago, and we loved it. Dory is an energetic little sister with a huge imagination. She exasperates her parents and annoys her siblings, but we loved her. All that said, Dory's siblings are downright mean. And there is some questionable language ("butt," reference to bathroom talk, etc.). I think the positives outweigh the negatives, but you may not agree. (At least 4 books in the series)

Down Girl and Sitseries, by Lucy Nolan
guided reading level: M

I absolutely love this clever series about two dogs who think their names are Down Girl and Sit (based on what their owners are constantly saying to them!). These illustrated chapter books talk about life from a dog's point of view. Hilarious! (4 books in the series)

This is the perfect series for early readers who are ready to move past picture books. Bumbling, not-too-bright Dragon is absolutely endearing. Each chapter is short and fully-illustrated with color pictures. We own all the books, and they make great read-alouds for younger siblings. (5 books in the series)

This is a series about children who must become Dragon Masters - to connect with and train their dragons while also discovering their creatures' secret powers. I'll just say right out that I am a realistic fiction fan, not someone who enjoys fantasy books. It was painful for me to read even half of a book about Dragon Masters and the jewels that connect them to their dragons. (BOR-ING SNOR-ING.) Even the elaborate illustrations on nearly every page couldn't hold my interest.

However, Amazon's reviews reveal that this is a hugely popular series among kids who enjoy fantasy books - so it's definitely worth a try if your readers like them. (At least 11 books in the series)

Wiglaf, a young medieval peasant, is one of 13 brothers. A traveling minstrel told him he was born to be a hero, so he heads off to Dragon Slayers' Academy, determined to learn to be a dragon slayer. The problem is that he can't stand the sight of blood. These are entertaining, but hard to follow. I recommend them for advanced readers, as comprehension will be difficult for children still learning to handle chapter books. (20 books in the series)

This is a wonderful series about a smart, kind, and determined little girl named Dyamonde. The books are extremely well written and handle issues such as divorce and separation in an appropriate, child-friendly way. My only complaint is that there are only 3 books in the series.

Echo is a mystery-solving bat who solves creepy mysteries with his human sidekicks, the Bat Pack. The stories are fast-paced, the characters are kind to each, and full-color illustrations adorn the books. (8 books in the series)

Sam and his friends Lucy and Antonio are students at Eerie Elementary - where the school is trying to eat the students! As hall monitor, Sam's job is to fight the school and save the students. The premise is a little wacky for me, and you'll have to decide if the age-appropriate creepiness is too much for your young readers. Do know that the books are quality, clean reads without name-calling, bullies, or potty talk. (Currently 9 books in the series)

Ellray Jakes series, by Sally Warner

Ellray is a likable third grader who is hoping his long-awaited growth spurt comes soon. He's an African-American boy living in suburbia, and he notes that he's one of the few non-whites in his school. I absolutely love this engaging series. Not only is Warner a great author, but she portrays a loving African-American family in an early chapter book series. No name-calling, potty jokes, or sassiness in this series - hurray! (9 books in the series)

Third grader Emma McGraw is the daughter of a single working mom. She works through making friends, fighting back against bullying, and coming to terms with her mom starting to date. The books are well-written, and Emma is a likable character - but I'm not crazy about the excessive name-calling. Not my top choice for young advanced readers, but fine for older, struggling readers. (Currently 6 books in the series)

This series' author is a news reporter for NBC, and the books feature Emma, a wannabe television reporter. The books are fine, but they lack substance and are nothing special. Not my favorites. (Currently 4 books in the series)

This classic series was published from 1968 to 1992. Encyclopedia Brown is a very smart fifth grader who helps his father, the Chief of Police, solve cases in the small town of Idaville. Each chapter features a short mystery. My husband enjoyed these as a kid, and he liked seeing how much our 9-year-old enjoyed them as well. Struggling readers may be turned off by the "old" stories and sparse illustrations, but advanced readers will enjoy the unpredictable mysteries and creative storytelling. Good clean fun. (28 books in the series)

I almost skipped this series altogether because I didn't think I could stomach another book about fairies. I'm glad I gave it a chance! McNamara is a wonderful author, and she's created a charming, well-written series about Tinkerbell's five younger sisters. Great for both young advanced readers and older, struggling readers. (6 books in the series)

Finley is a third grader who loves to craft and create; she can make something out of anything. This is a nice diversion from the princess and girly-girl type books, but I couldn't get into the stories. (The writing isn't particularly engaging.) Apparently one of the books mentions Ouija boards, but I didn't read that one. (at least 8 books in the series)

This wonderful series is about four friends (a brother-sister duo and two of their buddies) who help children solve problems. These books do something rare ... they teach useful problem solving skills while also being just plain good stories. The books highlight strong sibling relationships, don't have potty language, and best of all, are fun to read. Highly recommended! (At least 6 books in the series)

The original Flat Stanley debuted in 1964. It's the story of Stanley Lambchop, a boy who survives being crushed by a falling bulletin board. Other equally bizarre adventures occur in later books, published from 1985 to 2003. I wouldn't call the books great works of literature, but they are gentle and entertaining - no bullying, name calling, or disrespect issues. (6 books in the original series)

This classic series (1983-1993) uses easy-reader vocabulary to tell funny and, frankly, brilliant stories about the irrepressible, entertaining Fox. Please note that Fox isn't a great role model (he talks back to his mom), but he faces logical consequences for his actions. There's no name-calling, potty talk, or gross humor - and the simple drawings are absolutely hilarious.

I have been a fan of Fox ever since I first read the books as a little girl. Many years later, they still haven't lost their appeal. (10 books total) Highly recommended!

This is a well-written illustrated chapter book series about third graders who love school and sports. Each book features a different student in the class. (Currently 5 books in the series.)

I love books that build vocabulary; I'm not crazy about early chapter books with pretend words used as real words, as this can be very confusing for young readers. This series is full of them - impresstified, excitified, concentratey, conusifying, oftenly, and countless more.

All that said, it's a cute series about a girl who is trying to figure out her dream career - with lots of funny adventures along the way. Even though the reading level is a P, the large font and spacing makes it feel easier. The vocabulary issue leads me to say it's a better choice for older reluctant readers than for young advanced readers. (At least 9 books in the series)

Franny K. Stein is imaginative and creative -- and also happens to be a mad scientist who wants to take over the world (she just has to finish elementary school first). Franny's adventures are just plain weird, but the series is a welcome change from the cattiness, name calling, and sassiness we find in so many early chapter books. This series will appeal equally to boys and girls. (7 books in the series)

In my opinion, every young reader should read (or listen to) Frog and Toad. The simple but profound stories of friendship are funny, interesting, and worth reading again and again. Don't be turned off by the dull colors in the illustrations of these vintage books. The stories are timeless. (4 books in the series)

This is a futuristic series about a boy named Zack who lives on Nebulon with his family in the year 2120. Fantasy books can be hard to follow, but this one keeps the sentences short and has a lot of pictures to support comprehension. It's not amazing literature, but it's clean and entertaining. (More than 10 books in the series)

George Brown is trying to be a better student - but he's plagued by sudden, super-loud burps that compel him to do crazy, outrageous things. The gross humor is a turn-off for me, but the books are pretty harmless and are undoubtedly popular among young boys. If you don't mind the level of humor, it might be a good choice for reluctant readers. (Currently 19 books in the series)

These classic books (created over 30 years ago) are more picture than chapter books, but I include them because they are divided into short chapters - and these books are both witty and fun. I've long been a fan of George and Martha - two hippos who happen to be best friends. Like any best friends, they get on each others' nerves, humor each other, and look out for each other. Each chapter tells its own story, which makes these books great for kids who are working at comprehension. (At least 7 total books.)

Okay, let me just be up front and say I don't like these books. There's nothing wrong with them content wise, but I find the variety of colorful fonts very visually distracting. And as a teacher, it was really hard to pick up a book and quickly discern the plot. My students couldn't seem to grasp it either; their retellings were all over the place.

That said, my oldest son has loved these - and I know they're very popular.

The stories are told by the mouse Geronimo Stilton, the editor in chief of the Rodent Gazette and author of adventure stories. If this series is new to your reader, I would advise having him/her talk to you about each chapter as s/he reads it to make sure that comprehension is on track. (At least 75 books in the series)

Gabí is a spunky Latina girl who speaks in a mixture of Spanish with English. Kids can read about her adventures and challenges with her friends and third grade classmates. (At least 4 books in the series)

After the Goldie Blox construction kits became popular, Stacy McAnulty began writing these books. Goldie Blox is a smart, quirky girl engineer who loves to invent things. The premise is great, but I don't enjoy the books. They feel hastily written, and the plots are far-fetched, unbelievable, and sometimes just plain boring. Nothing wrong with these if they get kids to read, but don't rush out to buy them. (At least 5 books in the series)

Twins Billy and Jillian want to do good and help others. The only problem is that their parents are crooks, and they're supposed to follow in their footsteps.

The premise is interesting, and kids will probably enjoy the series. But I just can't get over how awful the parents are. In one book, the father is holding a stolen poodle for ransom and threatens, "Try any funny business, and your dog is dead!" No thanks. Add a fair amount of gross humor and potty talk, and I can't recommend it. (At least 4 books in the series)

If your readers are ready to move beyond fairies and puppies, encourage them to try the Gooney Bird Greene books. These are considerably more challenging than most of the books in this list; the font is small, and there are few illustrations. The books are exceptionally well written (Lois Lowry is a Newbery award winner), and the quirky Gooney Bird is an interesting second grader with a knack for storytelling. Some readers are turned off by the odd student/adult dynamic (Gooney Bird tends to take control wherever she is), but I enjoyed the book that I read. (6 books in the series)

These are chapter book sequels to Mary Hoffman's immensely popular picture books Amazing Grace and Boundless Grace. Grace is a confident, happy, and imaginative African-American girl who lives with her loving mother and Nana. The books highlight very relatable childhood experiences, but also touch on deeper topics like divorce, death of an elderly neighbor, and internment. These beautifully written books are best for older readers. (Series includes Starring Grace, Encore, Grace!, Bravo, Grace!)

This is an easy-to-read chapter book with large font and spacing and a black and white illustrations on almost every page. It's about twin siblings who are traveling the world with their parents - and who find a mystery to solve in every country they visit. The books are a good choice for kids ready to dive into chapter books, and definitely a series I'd recommend for young advanced readers. (Currently 10 books in the series.)

This is a wonderful, gentle series that highlights the loving relationship between Gus and his Grandpa. The books have full-page, colorful illustrations and the text is simple. I should note, however, that these books lack the excitement of other early chapter book series. Some children may find them boring. (9 books in the series)

This is an action-filled series about sports. In each book, we meet children who enjoy sports while also learning important real-life lessons. (At least 8 books in the series)

This is a hilarious series featuring a hamster who's quite different from your typical glittery princess. Harriet Hamsterbone is a fearsome warrior who slays dragons, jumps off cliffs, and cracks sarcastic jokes at the same time. Definitely worth checking out! (Currently 6 books in the series)

This is a modern Hardy Boys series (2010-2015) about third and fourth grade boy detectives, Frank and Joe. The mysteries are tame, the boys are respectful, and the stories are decently written. These won't win a prize for best in children's literature, but they're a good choice for kids who are into mysteries. (19 books in the series)

In the first book of this series, Harriet Bean finds her five "lost" aunts (whom her father forgot to tell her about). In later books, she solves mysteries with the help of her aunts. I'm never disappointed with McCall Smith's books for children - not only are they well written, but they are also free of name-calling and potty humor. (3 books in the series)

This series has a lot going for it - large text with nice spacing, interesting stories, clever illustrations, and no gross humor. I also appreciate that Heidi, though often grumpy, is not mean to her family. That said ... a big draw-back for me is that Heidi is a witch, which feels weird and out of place in a realistic fiction book. I don't like it that Heidi finds spells to cast on people that she doesn't like - something to be aware of when deciding if these are a good choice for your home or classroom. (At least 26 books in the series)

These funny, timeless books (the first was published in 1950) are still popular with kids today. Henry Huggins is an average 11-year-old boy who often finds himself in unusual situations. Beverly Cleary (now 100 years old as I write this post!) has a gift for understanding children and how they think. Fans of Ramona the Pest will enjoy her appearances in this series as well. (6 books in the series)

You can't go wrong with any of the Henry and Mudge books, a wonderful easy-to-read chapter book series about likable Henry and his lovable (big!) dog, Mudge. The books feature simple, screen-free adventures, loving parents, and engaging storylines. This series is the perfect choice for especially young advanced readers! (32 books in the series)

Herbie Jones is a likable second/third grader who lives with his parents and big sister. I would say that the book topics and writing style might be a bit over the heads of advanced early readers, but it's a good series for kids in second or third grade or even older struggling readers.Whenever I pick up a Suzy Kline book, I can feel confident that it's a well-written story without potty talk, gross humor, or disrespect. (6 books in the series)

This is a wonderful series co-written by Henry Winkler (The Fonz from the old Happy Days series) and Lin Oliver. I'm usually not impressed by children's books written by celebrities, but this book is a big exception. Winkler, who has dyslexia, has created a funny and likable character with the same challenge. I love that the series uses the dyslexie font, which is easier to read. Friends (except for the class bully) are kind to each other, and children show respect for adults. Refreshing and enjoyable! Worth investing in the 12+ books for a home or school library.

I'm a huge fan of Cynthia Rylant, but this isn't my favorite easy-reader chapter book series of hers. I think that the choppy dialogue and off-beat humor could confuse some readers, but these books are definitely worth a try. Bunny Brown (the brains) and Jack Jones (the snoop) make a fun pair of detectives. The books are clean and funny. (5 books in the series)

This series is actually co-written by 11-year-old Hilde and her father - and is quite well done. Main character Hilde and her older sister, Izzy, interview witnesses and solve crimes all over their town. The stories are interesting, and the illustrations will help keep kids engaged. (Currently 4 books in the series)

Horrible Harry series, by Suzy Kline guided reading level: L

I had the Horrible Harry series in my classroom for years, but I never read one myself. I didn't have high hopes for their quality, and I never actually read one until I listened to my third grader read them aloud to me. What a pleasant surprise!

These books are well written, interesting, and engaging - with a host of relatable characters. In fact, this was the series that finally got my second son comfortable with chapter books and launched a big jump in his reading ability. Horrible Harry isn't really all that horrible ( mischievous is a better word). The kids learn lessons, but the books aren't preachy. It's just an all around wonderful series, and worth taking up a shelf in a classroom library. (38 books in the series)

The positive Amazon reviews astound me, because I cannot think of a single positive thing to say about this series. Henry isn't just horrid - he's heinous. He's horribly rude, lies, is disrespectful to his parents, has an atrocious relationship with his younger brother, and hardly ever experiences consequences for his actions. He even has a stuffed animal named Mr. Kill.

I read just one book ( Horrid Henry's Underpants), and that was enough for me. These books are so bad that if my kids received them for gifts I'd throw them in the garbage. Please read one yourself before filling your shelves with the 36-book series.

This is a sweet series about an unlikely pair of best friends - Houndsley and Catina. These friendly books have charming illustrations and large text with plenty of spacing. Great for kids getting ready for chapter books. (At least 7 books in the series.)

Humphrey's Tiny Tales, by Betty G. Birney
guided reading level: L

This is a simple series based on the longer Humphrey chapter books. These books about Humphrey (the class hamster) aren't exactly amazing literature, but the story content and vocabulary are both age-appropriate. I recommend investing in the 7-book series if you have a lot of kids reading at this level.

This is a series about Icky Ricky (a boy attracted to slime, muck, and dirt) and his friends. Personally, I don't enjoy these books about high-energy boys who are always in the middle of something gross. But they're mostly harmless. Because of the mild language ("what the heck!") and bathroom humor, I don't recommend the series for young advanced readers. (Currently 6 books in the series)

I love that this series is written and illustrated by a husband/wife team, which I always think is cool. I want to be able to recommend the books. I like the dry humor and the zany stories about Inspector Flytrap (a Venus Flytrap who also happens to be a detective) and his goat sidekick, Nina. But the book I read had too much crass humor for my taste. If you're sensitive to that sort of thing, I'd skip it. (At least 3 books in the series)

This is an easy-to-read chapter book series about two best friends, Iris and Walter. These are warm, sweet books with loving families and plots that young readers can relate to. Recommended! (9 books in the series)

I'm on the fence about this series. On the one hand, they're funny. Ivy and Bean are two friends who get into a lot of mischief. On the other hand ... Bean can be a bit sassy, and the relationship between Bean and her big sister is very negative (which I always find disappointing in a children's book). There's a lot of name-calling. Check the series out at the library before investing in them. (P.S. Ivy wants to be a witch when she grows up, so definitely pass on this series if you're sensitive about that.) At least 11 books in the series.

Jack is a third grader with the ability to hear what animals are saying. This helps him solve mysteries in his third grade classroom and on school field trips. Nothing spectacular, but nothing objectionable either. (4 books in the series)

I love that this series is written by an African-American author and features a strong African-American girl as the main character. Jada is spunky (but not sassy) and learns valuable life lessons in these easy-to-read chapter books. The books felt a little cheesy and predictable to me, but I recommend them for young advanced readers (they may feel babyish to older readers). Currently 4 books in the series.

Andrew Clements is a wonderful author for young children, so I definitely recommend checking out this series. Jake Drake is a likable second grader dealing with familiar problems - getting into trouble as the class clown, being the teacher's pet, dealing with bullying, and more. A good choice for older, struggling readers. (4 books in the series)

Jake Maddox Girl Sports Stories & Jake Maddox Boy Sports Stories, by Jake Maddox
guided reading level: M

Each book in the series features a different girl (boy) and a realistic plot related to a particular sport. Children who like sports will enjoy these beginning chapter books. (At least 70 titles)

Each book in this fun series incorporates Jasmine's Japanese-American heritage into the story line. These are well written, have engaging storylines, and promote a positive sibling relationship. Recommended! (Currently 4 books in the series)

This may be an unfair review, because I'm basing it on just one book in the series - Jasper John Dooley Not in Love - but I thought it as awful. Jasper is being pursued by an overbearing classmate, Isabel, who declares that she's in love with him and wants to marry him. (She pushes her way into being his reading partner at school, actually licks his cheek, and plays weird games with him at recess). Jasper's parents actually encourage this uncomfortable relationship by telling him that he will eventually fall in love with her and setting up playdates, against Jasper's wishes.

Ugh. I'm guessing the other books in the series are much better, but I couldn't get over how awful the one I read was. (At least 6 books in the series)

This is a series from the 80's and early 90's about relatable Jenny Archer, an only child who finds herself in an amusing situation in each book. The covers have been updated, but the stories may feel a bit dated to today's kids. Still worth a try! (8 books in the series)

This is a fun mystery series written at an easy-to-read level but with a slightly older feel. Mystery books can be a challenge for kids new to chapter books, but this is a good one to start with. It's easy to follow, and it has lots of picture support. (Over 33 books in the series)

Judy Moody is the spunky, impulsive, and (of course) moody third grader in this popular series. The stories are funny and well-written - and even though Judy can be sassy and mean, the books are fine overall. (At least 14 books in the series)

This is an easy reader series for young Judy Moody and Stink fans. The books are packed with full color pictures featuring the brother-sister pair. It's a good choice for kids new to chapter books.

This is a wonderful series about a loving, middle class African-American family - featuring Julian, his best friend Gloria, and his little brother Huey. The stories are old (1980's) but continue to be reprinted with new covers. I love the likable characters and entertaining adventures. I also love that each chapter is its own story - making these books perfect for short guided reading lessons.

Be aware that in one book the father threatens beating and whipping after the boys eat the pudding he made; they are afraid and cower under the bed. But we quickly learn that he wants them to beat and whip the eggs as they make a second batch of pudding to replace the one they ate. (8 titles in the series; see them all here.)

Ah, Junie B.! People either love or hate this series. The truth is that when I taught 3rd-5th grade I thought these books were hilarious and read them aloud to my students. But now as a mother, I'm not so crazy about them. Junie B. is an energetic kindergartner who can also be sassy and sometimes just plain mean (using the words "hate," "fat," "stupid," and "dumb" way too often).

The books really are laugh-out-loud funny, but Junie is often extremely naughty and not the least bit sorry. ("Then I have to say a 'pology to her. Except for you don't actually have to mean it. 'Cause nobody can even tell the difference.") I would encourage you to read one before encouraging your learners to read them so you can make your own decision. (There are 27 books in the series.)

This is a hilarious series about Justin, a lovable worrywart who worries his way through elementary school and summer camp. The stories are relatable, and the illustrations really add to the book. I would save it for older, struggling readers because they'll relate better to the third and fourth grade storylines. (3 books in the series)

Grace gets the nickname "Just Grace" when she tries to distinguish herself from the other three girls named Grace in her third grade class. One of Grace's strengths is that she's very empathetic. But in her quest to fix others' unhappiness, her plans often backfire. The entertaining illustrations and bold headings move the reader along. Definitely a fun series! (At least 12 books)

This is a fun, engaging series about Katie Carew. In each book, a magic wind appears and turns Katie into someone else ... whether that's the girl at the top of the cheerleader pyramid, a hair stylist, or the class hamster. Katie is never prepared for the switch, and each books features one funny adventure after another. Highly recommended! (At least 35 books in the series)

Katie Woo, a likable first grader, is the star of these extremely short beginning chapter books with very large print and full-color illustrations on every page. The stories are not deep and have simple vocabulary - making this a very safe and friendly series for young readers (older readers will feel it's babyish). (At least 50 books in the series)

Keena is an energetic second grader who doesn't mean to make trouble ... but she always ends up in the middle of it! The book is superbly written, beautifully illustrated (in black and white), and features a character I wish I could meet in real life. I can't love this series more, and I hope we get to see a lot more of Keena Ford! (Currently 3 books in the series)

This is a series of light fantasy chapter books in which Penny, Link, and Natalie are the keyholders - the children who guard the border between the real and magical world. They do this with the help of their "links" (magical helpers from the other side of the border). The series is written by the authors of the very popular Bailey School Kids series, but this one never took off. The last book ends with a cliffhanger and was never continued. (4 books in the series)

This classic series (published from 1984-1991) features the imperfect kids of Mrs. Rooney's second grade class. The books are relatable and tell good stories while also teaching lessons about empathy, understanding, and friendship. This is a good series for kids to get into. (16 books)

This is a sweet adventure series for young readers. Prince Lucas and his best friend, Clara, journey around their magical kingdom as they encounter trolls, wizards, mermaids, fairies, and dragons. The stories are simple but engaging, and never scary. Their simplicity and lovely illustrations make them an especially good choice for young advanced readers. (At least 14 books in the series)

This is an easy-to-read mystery series about a lovable dog (King) who helps his human (Kayla) solve mysteries. This is the perfect introduction to mystery books for kids who are transitioning to chapter books. (Currently 5 books in the series)

Gordon Blue is a second grade superhero (who also happens to be a chicken.) I was surprised by all the rave reviews on Amazon, because I just couldn't get into this series. In my opinion, the pages are too busy with their mixture of text, illustrations, and way too many speech bubbles. I remember that whenever my students read books like this, they had a hard time following the story and summarizing it. (And frankly, I couldn't make myself read an entire book.)

That said, judging from the Amazon reviews, these comic-book style chapter books are popular and worth trying; there's nothing objectionable content-wise. A caution, though - If your students struggle to retell a Kung Pow Chicken book, try reading one yourself and deciding if it's a good fit. It may be good for strong readers looking for variety, but I'm not sure it's the best bet for struggling readers. (Currently 4 books in the series)

I wasn't sure I'd like a series whose main character's dream is to become a beauty queen (and who starts telling you how pretty she is on the second page). Thankfully, this isn't the sole focus of the books; each one explores a different interest. These are cute and wholesome (and moderately entertaining), making them a good choice for young advanced readers. (At least 14 books in the series)

This is an animal fantasy series in which owls and their friends try to save their forest from the dark magic of Thorn, a powerful vulture. This is a classic good vs. evil book and a good introduction to magic/quest books. The font is large with good spacing, and the black-and-white illustrations are incredible. (Currently 4 books in the series)

This is a spin-off series of The Winnie Years (which I have not read), featuring Winnie's younger brother, 7-year-old Ty. Based on the reviews I've read of The Winnie Years, it is not a series I would recommend. However, this spin-off series is pretty good. I could do without the potty humor and teasing about boyfriends/girlfriends in second grade, but I appreciate that Ty is a nice kid who has a loving relationship with his parents and three sisters. (Currently 3 books in the series)

A lighthouse keeper cat, a shipwrecked sailor dog, and three orphaned mouse children are the Lighthouse Family. Each book features another of their adventures. These gentle books are beautifully written and illustrated, but the stories may move a bit slowly for some readers. I suspect that adults will enjoy the books more than children. (8 books in the series)

The author wrote these beautiful early-reader books in the 1950's and 60's (with the exception of the last book, written two years before her death). Children have loved reading about Little Bear's adventures for generations - and they haven't lost a bit of their charm. (6 books in the series)

This is a classic series of 17 books published from 1967-2003. The Littles are a tiny family who live in the walls of the Bigg family home. The Littles look and act like ordinary people (except for their tails). These creative, wholesome books are a great choice for young advanced readers. Be aware that the newer books are not written by the original author. (17 books in the original series)

This is a wonderful, engaging series about Lola Levine, a half-Jewish, half-Peruvian girl who embraces her multicultural heritage. Lola is smart, feisty and energetic, but she isn't naughty or sassy. The stories are well written, and the characters are well developed. Recommended! (Currently 7 books in the series)

Each of these books is written as a diary and is narrated by a different BFF and member of the Lotus Lane Girls Club. These girls are into dogs, fashion, and sleepovers. And the books have waaaaay too many exclamation points for me to stomach. I found these painful and boring, but I can see how girls might enjoy them. (Currently 4 books in the series)

This book, told in a diary format, is about the adventures of spunky fourth grader, Lucy Rose. Lucy Rose navigates her parents' divorce, not getting the lead in the school play, and multiplication facts. The storytelling and energy are similar to Junie B. Jones - without the sassiness and backtalk. Since the book is written as Lucy would talk, it's full of run-on sentences. This can feel a little exhausting to read, but I liked this series. (4 books in the series)

This is an absolutely delightful series about Lulu and her friends' adventures as they save animals in their neighborhood. The books are beautifully written, the stories are fun and engaging, and black-and-white illustrations support comprehension. Definitely check these out! (Currently 6 books in the series)

Best friends Lily and Jess discover the magical word of Friendship Forest - where the evil witch Grizelda wants to drive all the animals out of the woods. This is the sort of series that is just way too cute for me. But it's harmless - and it can help young readers develop fluency and comprehension, especially since there are at least 30 books in the series.

This is a series about four siblings who discover that magic lies in the ground under the family's house. The children are loving to each other (almost to the point of being far-fetched), and there's no gross humor or backtalk. Unfortunately, however, the stories aren't particularly interesting. (4 books in the series.)

In the Magic Puppy series, Storm is a magic wolf who uses his spells wherever they're needed most.

In the Magic Kitten series, Flame is a magic lion who uses his spells wherever they're needed most.

In the Magic Ponies series, Comet is a magic pony who uses his spells wherever they're needed most.

In the Magic Bunny series, Arrow is a magic bunny who uses his spells wherever they're needed most.

I'll be honest. These types of series are so saccharine they make me feel ill. In my opinion, the books feel mass-produced, have uninteresting plots, and are far too predictable to be quality literature. But they're safe, harmless, and quite popular among young readers. Your learners might just love them - and that wouldn't be the end of the world. (Too many books in the series to count!)

This is a spinoff series based on the popular picture books by Joanna Cole (with illustrations by Bruce Degen). The chapter books lack the quality of the originals; they definitely feel mass-produced. But I can imagine that fans of the TV show would enjoy these companion books as well as the science facts which are included throughout. (20 books in the series)

Magic Tree House series, by Mary Pope Osborne guided reading level: M

I'm a big fan of the best-selling Magic Tree House books because they tell kid-friendly adventure stories while also teaching about science and social studies. A bonus is that the stories are clean (no potty talk) and feature a positive brother/sister relationship. Great choice for young advanced readers! (At least 32 books in the series)

This is a well-written series about Mallory, a third/fourth/fifth grader (depending on the book), and the drama that surrounds her and her friends (and their older siblings). Mallory is a good role model but is also relatable and likable; the books teach good lessons without being preachy. I should note that while the books are perfectly appropriate, I'd save them for third grade and up. They focus a lot on older kid themes (owning a phone, older sibling boyfriend/girlfriend breakups, etc.) At least 28 books in the series.

This is a beautifully written, engaging story about a girl (Mango) who discovers a tapir lost in the city (Bambang) and becomes her friend. The wonderful illustrations add a lot of charm to the book. These would make great read alouds. (Currently 4 books in the series)

Marty McGuire books, by Kate Messner guided reading level: O

This is a really great series about an active third grade girl who likes the dirt and doesn't want to dress up like a princess. The books are well-written and should appeal to both boys and girls. (Currently 3 books in the series)

Marvin Redpost is a likable and relatable third grader. Kids enjoy these books, and I don't have any big issues with them - except that the subject matter (such as teasing about boyfriends/girlfriends and a dog dying when Marvin is housesitting) sometimes feels too much for the targeted age level. Probably a better choice for struggling older readers than for young advanced readers. (8 books in the series)

This is an older series (early 90's), and like any series by Suzy Kline, it doesn't disappoint. Mary Maloney is a clever and creative little girl who's trying to overcome her stutter and the other challenges of second grade. These feature a larger font and black-and-white illustrations. Recommended for young advanced readers. (4 books in the series)

In this charming series, we read about James and his friend Marvin, a beetle. (It's a companion series to the much more difficult chapter book Masterpiece.) The text is large with big spacing, and the books have detailed black-and-white drawings. Lots of support for young readers. (4 books in the series)

This classic series was originally published in the 70's, 80's and 90's, and is being republished by Random House. Each book features different children and their encounters with everyday magic (often featuring a witch). If your readers enjoy fantasy books, these will likely be a hit. (At least 14 books in the series)

This is a well-written, older series (published in the 90's) about 1o-year-old Max and his friends. Kids will enjoy reading about Max's schemes to get rich quick, his plans to star in a commercial, and his attempts to become a magician. (4 books in the series)

I never thought I'd enjoy a series about a plump cockroach, but Maybelle is an absolute delight. She's an adventurous insect who lives under the fridge in the home of prim and proper Myrtle and Herbert Peabody. Can Maybelle have fun while following all the rules for cockroach safety?

The books have large font, ample spacing, and fantastic black-and-white illustrations. These make great read-alouds too! (Currently 4 books in the series)

This is a goofy series about a superhero named Melvin. Melvin, a graduate of the Superhero Academy, has been assigned to fight crime in Los Angeles. He works with Candace, his best friend and partner in uncrime. Together, they thwart the plots of the McNasty brothers while trying to avoid Melvin's greatest weakness - bologna. Silly and fun. (Currently 8 books in the series.)

What? You've never heard of Mercy Watson? Please... reserve one of the books at your library, stat! These are absolutely hilarious (and brilliantly illustrated) books about Mercy Watson, a pig (excuse me, porcine wonder) who is the delight of her owners but a thorn in the side of her neighbor, Eugenia Lincoln. Each book features a hilarious new adventure, quirky characters, and plenty of hot buttered toast. These were the first chapter books that my kids listened to me read aloud, and they could usually listen to a full book in one sitting. (6 books in the series)

Third-grader Shelly and her mermaid friends go to school at Trident Academy. The books address issues related to fears, fitting in, friendship, and more. I admit that a series all about mermaids is a bit hard for me to stomach, but the books are harmless and not too bad, actually. (At least 20 books in the series.)

Young mystery lovers will enjoy this clever, fast-paced mystery series about Milo and Jazz, detectives in training. (And I admit it, I loved it too!) Great for fans of Cam Jansen, and a good choice for both young advanced readers and older, struggling readers. (12 books in the series)

This is an easy-reader chapter book series about Minnie and Moo, two lovable cows who go on silly adventures. (9 books in the series)

This is a fun series from the 80's that's being republished. Kids will enjoy reading about world-famous duck-tective Miss Mallard and the mysteries she solves all around the world. Try to get the newer books (Quix Fast Fun Reads). I appreciate the word list and questions at the end of each book. (At least 15 books in the series)

This is a really cute, fun series about Missy - a "razzle-dazzle girl who does things the Super Royal Deluxe" way. Unlike Missy, her friend Oscar is a thinker, not a talker, and it's fun to see how the two interact. Kids will enjoy the speech bubbles, charming illustrations, and all-around fun stories that will appeal to both boys and girls. (Currently 4 books in the series)

This is a series about Moongobble, an "inept but endearing wizard" and Edward, his boy apprentice. It's set during medieval times and features dragons, werewolves, and other monsters. I had a hard time reading past the first chapter, so I visited Amazon to see what reviewers had to say. Many teachers and parents wrote that it did not hold their listeners' interest. (At least 5 books in the series)

The only bummer about this series is that it took me so long to discover it! It's a wonderfully funny and engaging series about two best friends: Moose and Hildy (a pig). The fantastic black and white illustrations help make this book a great transition to chapter books. Highly recommended! (4 books in the series)

This is a sweet (but rather slow-moving) series about two best friends named Mouse and Mole. The books have full color pictures for strong reader support. If your readers enjoy the classic Frog and Toad books by Arnold Lobel, they will likely enjoy this series as well. The plots and pacing are very similar. (At least 4 books in the series)

This is a delightful series about a mouse scout troop (very similar to Girl Scouts) who work through earning badges and other adventures. I love how pages from the Mouse Scout Handbook appear between pages of the story. This is a great series for young advanced readers, but be aware that the books have the word "stupid" a little too often. Other than that, I highly recommended this 4-book series.

This is a gentle, not-to-miss series about the cautious, elderly Mr. Putter and his cat, Tabby. We love reading about their adventures with his equally elderly (but much wilder) neighbor, Mrs. Teaberry and her dog, Zeke. This a touching, beautiful series - and it's well worth investing in a box set if you get the opportunity. (25 books in the series)

I wish I could recommend this popular series, but it was quite disappointing. The main character "hates" practically everything (including school), and the books are full of name-calling, potty talk, negativity, and mean-spirited humor. Many kids will enjoy this series; you'll have to decide if you want to feed that by filling your shelves with them. I definitely don't recommend them for young advanced readers. (12 books in the series)

While I prefer the Fancy Nancy picture books, the Nancy Clancy chapter books (which came later) are also fun to read. Nancy and her best friend Bree are likable third graders with engaging, realistic adventures. I love that O'Connor builds vocabulary in a natural way throughout each of the books.

These books are mostly harmless; I'm not always crazy about Nancy's choices, but natural consequences usually follow. One notable exception is in Secret Admirer. Nancy and Bree jump into the truck of her teenage guitar teacher for a ride home - without consulting their parents. Yikes! (Currently 8 books in the series)

Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew series, by Carolyn Keene
guided reading level: N

This series features pre-teen versions of Nancy and her friends, George and Bess. They solve mysteries such as missing dolls and lost ice cream recipes. If you're wondering how Carolyn Keene is still writing Nancy Drew books (the original series began publication in the 1930's), you should know that Carolyn Keene is a pen name and is used for all the ghost writers who write the Nancy Drew series.

And I would say that the series definitely feels like that ... books written quickly without a lot of personality. There's a place for these books, though - reading series books is actually good for kids. I'd recommend these books for girls who enjoy mysteries. (At least 40 books in the series)

This classic series (the first book was published in 1972) is the perfect segue from picture to chapter books. Nate the Great is a boy detective who solves mysteries with the help of his dog, Sludge. Kids will enjoy the clever mysteries and quirky characters. This is a great series for young advanced readers, and the books appeal equally to girls and boys (this was one of my favorite series as a young reader). Over 25 books in the series.

This series features a pair of African American best friends who live next door to each other. Nikki and Deja are both relatable and likable. I had a hard time getting into the book I read (Substitute Trouble), but started enjoying it a few chapters in. (6 books in the series)

Alexander has moved to a new town, where he finds an old notebook with the word DOOM on the cover. The notebook contains top secret information about monsters, which Alexander battles in each of the books. I'll be honest and tell you that while I thought this series was harmless, it's also really dumb, and I can't imagine reading it aloud to my kids in place of the many interesting books out there that are actually well-written. I must be in the minority, though, judging by the 5-star Amazon reviews. Just consider yourself warned. (More than 10 books in the series)

The No. 1 Car Spotter, by Atinuke

I absolutely love this series about an African boy named Oluwalase Babatunde Benson - No. 1 for short. What's especially wonderful is that this is a contemporary early chapter book set in Africa. The main character is very poor, but the book is neither depressing nor happy go lucky - it's just plain good. What can No. 1's family do when Grandmother is sick and they have no money to pay for a doctor? Believe it or not, a wheelbarrow is the solution. (At least 4 books in the series)

These tender easy-reader chapter books were published from 1979-2008. They were probably my first chapter books, and I remember checking them out over and over again from the library. Now as a mother, I appreciate those early books even more. The author wrote the first books when she had two young children - no wonder the stories are so relatable! The oldest books of this series are my favorite, but all are good. (20 books total)

From the creator of the classic Nate the Great series came this series about his cousin - Olivia Sharp. Olivia is a spunky girl detective who helps her friends solve their problems. There's nothing wrong with the books, but this series lacks the charm of the original Nate the Great books, which may be why it didn't catch on. (Only 4 books in the series)

This is a brightly illustrated series about Eva Wingdale, a likable little owl who keeps a diary about her adventures at home and at Treetop Owlementary. This is a good choice for second or third graders who struggle with reading but want to read chapter books. The content is perfect for younger readers as well. (At least 9 books in the series)

This is about two best friends - Peachy the Cat and Keen the dog, who attend classes together at Happy Tails School. I found the writing less than compelling, and I'd had enough of the animal puns a few pages in -- but I can imagine that reluctant readers could quickly get into this series. (Currently 3 books in the series)

This is a lovely easy-to-read chapter book series about a kind, thoughtful Latino boy named Pedro. Perfect for young readers in kindergarten and first grade. (Currently 9 books in the series)

I remember how much my younger brother (now 36) loved these books as a third grader. The 40 books (published from 1988-2012) are about a group of boys and girls in a scouting group. Each book's plot typically focuses on earning a particular badge, and the stories are engaging and interesting. The kids are sometimes mean to each other, but it's nothing over the top. I do have to say that I'm really disappointed by the updated covers; try to find the original series if you can.

This is a cheerful (if somewhat boring) series about Kyle and Mia, two best friends who love animals. They help people and pets find solutions to their pet problems. (At least 6 books in the series.)

Pet Rescue Adventures, by Holly Webb
guided reading level: O

This is a gentle (if predictable) series about children and the animals they rescue. The plots are rather repetitive, and the stories not all that thrilling - but it's still a good choice for young, advanced readers. Older children may find them boring. (At least 30 books in the series)

I quickly fell in love with this funny series about Phoebe G. Green, a spunky, likable narrator. Not only are the books thoroughly entertaining, but they also have positive messages. Highly recommended! (At least 4 books in the series)

Pinky and Rex are two best friends; Pinky is a boy whose favorite color is pink. Rex is a girl whose favorite dinosaur is a T-Rex. These books explore friendship in an endearing way. The easy-reader format makes them a great choice for young advanced readers. (12 books in the series)

Piper Green is a spunky second grader who lives on a small Maine fishing island and commutes to school on a lobster boat. Piper is a typical kid who tends to be stubborn and moody, but she is also considerate and thoughtful. The books are exceptionally well written. Highly recommended! P.S. I should note that the series really isn't about fairies. Piper simply puts something in the Fairy Tree, and something else is left in exchange. (Currently 5 books in the series)

This is an entertaining and well-written series about Piper Reed, a child whose family moves every few years because her father is a Navy Chief. Piper navigates new homes, new schools (while dealing with dyslexia), and quarrels with her older and younger sister. Because the older sister is a teen, there are some comments that younger readers won't "get" (and that you won't want them to). Nothing serious at all, but for that reason I'd recommend this for older struggling readers and not young, advanced ones. (Currently 6 books in the series)

The Polk Street Mysteries, by Patricia Reilly Giff

Dawn Bosco is a second grade detective at Polk Street School. This is an older series (1980's) that's been republished. It's a wonderfully written, engaging set of books without the bathroom humor and snarkiness prevalent in newer chapter books. Recommended!

This may just be my favorite children's book series of all time. Together, Rylant's beautiful storytelling and Teague's outstanding illustrations bring us the adventures of lovable Poppleton the pig and his neighbors - Cherry Sue (a llama), Hudson (a mouse), and Filmore (a goat).

The stories are pure and wholesome and still laugh-out-loud funny. This is a rare combination, and I highly (HIGHLY!) recommend getting the full set for your home or classroom library. You may just find yourself pulling them off the shelf to read even when no children are around (I know I do). 8 books in the series.

My third grader loves this fully-illustrated series that features video game characters Super Rabbit Boy and his nemesis, Meanie King Viking. I'll be perfectly honest and tell you that I don't get this series at all. I find all the visuals very distracting and the plot super hard to follow. But even though we don't have video games at our house, my boys (1st, 3rd, and 4th grade) devoured all the books that I reserved from the library. Just be aware that while this may get reluctant readers reading, it will be challenging to check on their comprehension. (At least 5 books in the series)

series, by Shannon Hale & Dean Hale
guided reading level: L

Princess Magnolia appears to be the perfect, prim princess - but when monsters attack, she changes into a costume and becomes her alter ego - The Princess in Black. I like the concept of a superhero princess, and kids will love the beautiful full-color illustrations on nearly every page. Personally, I didn't find the stories all that well-written or engaging. But there's nothing objectionable in the series. I suspect these would feel babyish for kids above third grade. (Currently 6 books in the series)

Princess Pink and the Land of Fake-Believe series, by Noah Z. Jones

Princess Pink is a girl whose first name is Princess, and her last name is Pink. She has seven older brothers and doesn't like the color pink - or anything girly. What she does love is going on adventures in the Land of Fake-Believe, a secret land she enters through her refrigerator. The book is a mixture of text and speech bubbles, which can be a bit distracting. But the text is simple, the stories are entertaining, and kids will love the full-color pictures. Not great literature by any means, but worth checking out. (4 books in the series.)

I wanted to like these books, if only because Princess Pistachio is so much fun to say. But I was disappointed in the sassiness of the main character and the unkind teasing by her friends. Still ... the writing is clever, the stories are cute, and the illustrations are great. Worth trying. (3 books in the series.)

I did not expect to like this book because I'm not crazy about princesses, fairies, or any of the other stereotypical girl book themes. But Posey won me over very quickly. Posey is a first grader who lives with her mother and little brother. She deals with typical kid things - jealousy, name calling, etc. - but this is (almost) always handled with a lesson and a positive solution. The books are ideal for young readers through second grade; the books will feel babyish for older readers. The book I read did have a small amount of bathroom humor. (Currently 12 books in the series)

This is a well-written and engaging series about an atypical princess. Princess Pulverizer doesn't want to be a princess; she wants to be a knight. Her father the king promises to send her to Knight School ... if she completes eight good deeds on a Quest of Kindness. In each book, the princess travels the countryside in search of people who need her help. The book I read was funny and did not have any name-calling or potty language. Great choice for young advanced readers! I assume that there will eventually be 8 books.

This is a clever series about eight-year-old Logan and his "cousin" Java, who is really an android that his mom invented. Kids will enjoy reading about their adventures - and about Logan's attempts to keep Java's true identity a secret. (Currently 6 books in the series)

This is a clever, fully illustrated series about a likable pug and his pampered owner, Lady Miranda. Pug lives in a posh English townhouse, where a footmen and housekeeper cater to him and his owner. Each book features a new misadventure (a boat ride, horseback riding, jungle safari, etc.). (Currently 4 books in the series)

Puppy Academy series, by Gill Lewis

Unlike most chapter books about puppies, the dogs are the main characters in this series. At Sausage Dreams Puppy Academy, a team of pups learn how to be working dogs. Young animal lovers will enjoy reading about school from a dog's perspective. Each book features a different pup working toward his or her dream. (At least 4 books in the series.)

This series is about a group of puppy pirates who "set sail for fun and adventure." Honestly, I find the premise ridiculous and the books painful to read. However, many children enjoy them - and they're a fine, wholesome choice. (At least 7 books in the series)

The Petersons are a foster family for young dogs. Each book in the series tells a different story about a new puppy that the family has taken in. This is a cute, safe series for young animal lovers - and an excellent choice for young advanced readers. (Over 30 books in the series)

The good news is that there is nothing objectionable in the Rainbow Magic books. The bad news is that they are painful to read. They are sickeningly sweet, have mediocre writing (at best), and nearly the same plot in all the books. It's clear that the author dashed these books off very quickly (no wonder there are over 200 in the series!). I couldn't even make it through one (short) book. That said, reading these repetitive books can actually be good for young readers who need to improve comprehension and fluency.

I wouldn't discourage kids from reading these books, but do remember that the goal is that they move on to higher quality books when they're ready.

I'm not a big animal person (at all), so I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this beautiful series about children and the animals they meet at the local shelter. The writing is exceptional, the stories offer just the right amount of suspense, and the black-and-white illustrations give readers the support they need. (At least 6 books in the series)

When I look back at my childhood, Ramona Quimby plays a prominent role. I absolutely loved this series of books about a little girl who starts as a pesky preschooler and grows into a relatable, likable 10-year-old. I loved reading each novel when I was the same age as the Ramona in the book. It's like Beverly Cleary could see into my head ... she "gets" children so well.

Even though the publication dates range from 1955-1999 (yes, really - Cleary is now 100 years old), the stories are timeless. This is a must-read series for every young reader. (8 books in the series)

I highly recommend this quality series about Ranger, a golden retriever who rescues children as he travels through time. Not only are the stories engaging and wholesome, they also integrate social studies concepts as children read about different periods of history. Please do note, however, that the themes (such as slavery) may be too much for young readers who don't have the proper context. Save these for kids in third grade and up. (At least 9 books in the series)

This series about two fourth grade best friends, Raymond and Graham, is entertaining and funny. I hesitate to recommend it to young readers, however, because there is a huge focus on the boyfriend/girlfriend dynamic, which feels inappropriate in a book for young readers. For that reason I think it's a better choice for older, struggling readers. (At least 4 books in the series)

Ready, Freddy is a popular series, so much so that I bought some for my oldest a number of years ago. I regret it and am getting rid of all the ones I find in the house. While I don't dislike this series as much as I despise Captain Underpants and Horrid Henry, I can't recommend it.

Freddy talks back, has a horrible relationship with his sister, lies, and whines. Children call each other names, make fun of the principal, and more. As a side note, it blows my mind the way the parents listen to the older sister being absolutely horrible to Freddy and do nothing about it ("just ignore her") .

Yes, it's a popular 27-book series, but as you can see from the length of this blog post, there are many better options.

This is a friendly series about princesses who live at a princess boarding school, where they learn how to be royalty while also assisting animals in need. (Currently 12 books in the series)

This is actually a really fun series which is part chapter book/part graphic novel. Ricky Ricotta is a mouse who regularly saves the world from invading villains with the help of Mighty Robot. While I don't like all of Pilkey's books (see my negative review of Captain Underpants), this series is a winner and a good choice for reluctant readers. (Currently 8 books in the series)

This wonderful series from the 80's is set in an apartment building in New York City. Since it's about groups of siblings, the books feature both male and female main characters. It's fun to learn about the big city adventures and to watch the kids age up as the series goes on. Most of the books in the series are out of print, but it's definitely worth hunting down at your library. This is an especially great choice for young advanced readers, but may feel boring to older readers. Books include Busybody Nora, Superduper Teddy, Russel Sprouts, E is for Elisa, and more (14 books in the series).

This was a surprisingly entertaining book about Roscoe, a good-natured first grader who lives with his parents, little sister, and big brother. Roscoe finds himself in trouble a lot, but he's likable and means well. This is a great pick for reluctant readers. (At least 7 books in the series)

This is a lovely series about a feisty, smart little third grader named Ruby. Her older brothers (Marcellus, Roosevelt, and Tyner) are the most popular kids at school - but Ruby isn't about to be left behind! (4 books in the series)

Ruby Lu is a spunky Asian American with a big imagination - and I absolutely love, love, love this beautiful series. So often, early chapter book series feel like they're being mass-produced without any effort at good writing. Not the case with Ruby Lu! These books are clever and engaging.

The only thing I should tell you is that Ruby, after practicing driving on her dad's lap, actually drives herself and her little brother down the block to school. I am not worried (at all) about my own kids "trying this at home," but just be aware that it's in one of the books. I can't do justice to these books in a review... please reserve one at your library! (Currently 3 books in the series)

This is an older series (published in the 90's) about Anastasia Krupnik's younger brother, Sam. Sam is a precocious and absolutely hilarious 4-year-old. The books are entertaining and very well written (Lowry is a Newbery award winner), but save this series for kids who are just about ready to move into middle grade chapter books. Better yet ... read them aloud to young listeners. (4 books in the series)

Sassy series, by Sharon M. Draper
guided reading level: P

Sassy, a likable African-American fourth grader, is a breath of fresh air! The books are a lighthearted, happy look at life in elementary school. There's no questionable content. (Currently 4 books in the series)

In this intense and fast-paced series, fourth grader Max Stalwart is a secret agent by night. In each book he's searching for his older brother - who, though also part of a secret agent organization, has gone missing. Jack travels the world and has exciting but perilous adventures; some of Jack's situations may be troubling to sensitive young readers. I'd recommend this for older, reluctant readers, but probably not for young advanced readers. (14 books in the series)

The Secrets of Droon series, by Tony Abbott guided reading level: O

These are fast-moving, high interest books about kids who discover a magical word under the staircase. The kids have their own magical powers as they battle evil emperors, wicked sorcerers, and more. I should tell you that I've disliked this series ever since I was a teacher - even though I'd never read one until now. That's because it was nearly impossible to tell if kids understood these books after they read them. There are so many strange characters and twists in the plot that my third graders could never retell one of the books with any sort of clarity. (Honestly, I almost fell asleep as they tried.) I do not recommend these books for struggling readers because it's so hard to keep track of all the names and events.

While I don't personally care for these books, they're harmless and may be just the thing to get young readers started with chapter books. But just be aware that these are not high quality literature (at all). (44 books in the series)

This is a hilarious series about Harry Hammer, a hammerhead shark who wishes he were one of the cool kids, and his friends at Shark School. The books are entertaining, the illustrations are great, and the stories integrate science facts in a natural way. There's a small amount of bathroom humor, but it's a minor issue. Recommended. (Currently 10 books in the series)

This is a friendly new series about kids who find homes for animals in need. Cynthia Lord (a Newbery Honor award winner) is a strong writer, so the plot and characters have more depth than you usually see in an early chapter book series. A great choice for animal lovers and for young, advanced readers. (Currently 3 books in the series)

Sherlock Sam is a Korean boy who lives with his family in Singapore - and solves mysteries with Watson, his robot sidekick. To be honest, I couldn't get into it, but it's a safe series that some kids may enjoy. The vocabulary and story structure feels too complex for young advanced readers. (At least 12 books in the series)

This is an absolutely wonderful series for young advanced readers. The books features a very loving sibling relationship, kid-friendly storylines, and happy endings. The stories teach important life lessons without anything too deep or dramatic. One book I read was about saving a friend's Chinese restaurant from going out of business. Another was about pigeons laying eggs on Sarah's apartment balcony. Strongly recommended with the caveat that these will feel babyish to older, struggling readers. (4 books in the series)

Sly and her cat/assistant, Taxi, use their reasoning to solve friends' and neighbor's mysteries in these engaging books. The only bummer is that there are just 3 books in the series.

I appreciate the premise of this simple series featuring 7-year-old Sofia Martinez and her family, but I just couldn't get into them. The books mix English with Spanish and include a Spanish to English glossary in the back. The books offer strong reader support with full-color illustrations and large font. (At least 12 books in the series)

The Song Lee books are set in the same classroom (3B) as the companion series, Horrible Harry. Song Lee may be the quietest person in room 3B, but she's also full of surprises! This is a lovely, gentle series - too bad there aren't more! (4 books in the series)

Archie is an 8-year-old boy who discovers that his taxi driver father actually drives aliens through outer space. This is a fun, engaging series. (Currently 3 books in the series)

I didn't have high hopes for this series about girls who open a mini-salon for kids inside their mom's nail salon ... but it actually wasn't too bad. The series isn't just about the perfect manicure; it's also about entrepreneurship, giving back, and being a friend. (Currently 6 books in the series)

Jules Bloom is a witty and thoughtful second/third grader who also happens to be an aspiring actress. But even though Jules becomes a TV and movie star, she's a likable, relatable character. This is a quality series. (Currently 4 books in the series)

Stella Batts is an 8-year-old girl whose parents own a candy store. She loves to write (and tells each book as if she wrote it herself). These are sincere, gentle books that also address mild bullying and other challenges of elementary school. (At least 10 books in the series)

This is a fun, harmless series about Stink, Judy Moody's little brother. There's a bit of gross talk (boogers, etc.) but the second grade adventures are light and funny. (At least 15 books in the series)

A series about ballerinas. A series by a celebrity. These two things meant my expectations were quite low; however, I was pleasantly surprised. Goldberg has written a lovely series about girls at the Nutcracker Ballet School in Harlem. Each book features a different girl who learns both ballet and an important life lesson. (6 books in the series)

8-year-old twins Danny and Josh live next door to a mad scientist, the elderly Petty Potts. Petty has created S.W.I.T.C.H. spray, which can turn any creature into a creepy-crawly or reptile. The twins become ants, spiders, grasshoppers, alligators, and more. Kids will enjoy these-fast paced adventures, and you'll like that the books integrate science concepts in a casual way. Be aware that the books do have mild name-calling and potty humor. (14 books in the series)

This series is a continuation of the popular Mercy Watson series (which is written at a lower reading level). Unlike Mercy Watson, this series features different characters from the neighborhood, has more challenging vocabulary, and features black-and-white illustrations. Personally, I love them, and I'm an endless Kate DiCamillo fan, but I think that the jokes and subtlety would go over many kids' heads. (Currently 4 books in the series)

What a great find! Written by Kate Klise (and illustrated by her sister, M. Sarah Klise), these entertaining stories feature the members of Sir Sidney's Circus. The stories are entertaining, the illustrations (with speech bubbles) are fantastic, and kids will enjoy the jokes and puns throughout. (5 books in the series)

These are fantasy books in which a magic book sends the main characters off to different periods of history. The kids are kind to each other, and I didn't find any bathroom or gross humor. I also appreciate the way the books teach readers about historical events. Personally, I couldn't get into the series, but it's definitely worth a try. Consider reading the first book aloud before asking kids to read subsequent books on their own. (16 books in the series)

This is one of my favorite series. I absolutely love the story of toys who come to life - Lumphy, Stingray and Plastic (a toy ball, who isn't actually plastic at all). My one objection is that in one of the books the toys are afraid of "ax murderers in the basement." I always edit that out when I it read aloud to my kids. For that reason - and for other subtleties that younger children might not get - I recommend this for older readers.

Cressida Jenkins loves unicorns and is positive that they are real. In each story, she journeys to Rainbow Realm to help a unicorn princess and her sisters. After reading the sickeningly sweet summary on the back of one of the books, I was sure I would dislike the series. But it's actually not too bad. A wholesome (and sometimes syrupy sweet) series. (At least 8 books)

This is a lovely and refreshingly well-written series about a young girl named Violet and her family - including her loving new stepdad, Vincent. The book addresses big topics (moving, single parenthood, parents dating, etc.) in gentle ways. The large-ish font and lots of space between lines make this accessible as an early chapter book - despite the high reading level. Great choice for young advanced readers! Quality enough for a read-aloud. (At least 9 books in the series)

Wayside School series, by Louis Sachar
guided reading level: P

This is a truly wacky series about the kids and teachers at Wayside School. It's an older series (I remember that my younger brother, now 36, loved them as a kid), but kids still enjoy them today. Be aware that the stories are outrageous and frequently very funny, but some of the stories are bizarre and a bit mean-spirited, which will be confusing for young advanced readers. Save them for third graders and up. (5 books in the series)

This is a refreshing new series about Myron, a boy on the autism spectrum, and his best friend, Hajrah, also neuroatypical. Myron and Hajrah spend part of the school day in a special resource class, and the rest of the day in a regular third grade room. As the two solve mysteries around their school, their challenges and strengths are presented in a positive manner. The books have very little name-calling or other objectionable content. Recommended! (Currently 3 books in the series)

This is an illustrated series about Jerry and Maya, two classmates who run a detective agency and solve crimes in their small town. The mysteries are interesting, but not too complicated for young detectives. There are enough clues and false leads to keep them engaged. (8 books in the series)

I had never heard about this series, even though the first book was published in 1974 (and apparently it's also a Netflix series). Mildred Hubble is attending Miss Cackle's Academy for Witches, and she can't seem to get anything right! From crashing her broomstick to mixing up her spells - she feels like the worst witch. This series is well-written and entertaining, and if you don't mind witches in fantasy books, I recommend it. (Currently 8 books in the series)

Yasmin is a second grade Pakistani-American girl. This is a lovely series for young readers; the chapters are short, the stories are relatable, and there are full-color pictures on nearly every page. It's worth investing in the series (at least 5 books to date).

Adler took his popular Cam Jansen mystery books (up earlier in this list) and created a series of companion mysteries for younger readers. This is a great series for kids who like mysteries but aren't ready for longer chapter books. (20 books in the series)

This is a wholesome series about twins Zach and Zoe Walker, who love playing sports and solving mysteries. (currently 6 books in the series)

Zack is a 10-year-old boy who gets into weird situations. And by weird, I mean really weird. So weird that I'd rather my kids not read the series. In one book, his grandfather is reincarnated as a cat. In another book, his apartment is haunted by an 8-year-old poltergeist. In yet another book, the dead Queen Victoria takes possession of his body during a seance.

The books are meant to poke fun at popular horror series, but I found them rude, inappropriate, and creepy. Not recommended. (30 books in the series)

Freddie Ramos is a Latino boy who receives a mystery package containing shoes that allow him to run super fast - like a superhero. And so Freddie becomes the superhero of his school - finding lost lunches and library books and rescuing a puppy. The stories didn't grab me, but they're safe and sweet. (At least 7 books in the series)

This new series is from the author of the classic Polk Street Kids. I feel that the Polk Street Kids series is more interesting and well written. This series feels a little forced and boring. However, it's a fine choice for kids who enjoy the books. The kids are kind to each other, and I saw nothing objectionable. (Currently 8 books in the series)

This is a charming series about a little girl named Zoey, who uses science to heal magic creatures. The science is sound, the pictures are fantastic, and the stories are easy to follow. Highly recommended! (At least 6 books in the series)

Check out this popular resource!

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The ultimate guide to early chapter books for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd grade

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This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. How can you know which chapter books are best for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade? This post will help you out! This post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy here.

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40+ Best Book Series for 1st and 2nd graders

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40+ Best Book Series for 1st and 2nd graders

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You know that moment when your child is really starting to get the hang of reading?

It's such a thrill.

And now you need to find some books for your emerging reader.

There are so many great chapter books for this age range (every child is different, of course, but I'd say they're great for advanced kindergarten readers, 1st and 2nd graders, and some 3rd and 4th grade readers).

All of these chapter books are around 100-150 pages and still have quite a few illustrations (although almost always in black and white instead of full-color).

They're the next step up from the books on this list of beginner chapter books which are under 100 pages and have full-color illustrations on every page.

All of these book series also make fantastic read-alouds for preschoolers and kindergarteners (and even older!) or check them out as audiobooks and let your child listen during quiet time or in the car.
If you are wanting more books for your new little reader, pop in your email address and I'll send you 20+ of the best beginner chapter books!
40+ Best Book Series for 1st and 2nd graders

Heidi Heckelbeck by Wanda Coven, illustrated by Priscilla Burris. I knew when I picked up the first book in the series for Ella that Heidi turns out to be a witch, but she didn't know that and when she reached the end of the first volume and made that incredible discovery for herself, she went berserk with excitement, leaping around the kitchen as she told me about how Heidi was actually a witch and had magical powers. (30 books in the series)

A to Z Mysteries by Ron Roy, illustrated by John Steven Gurney. When Ella was finished with the Boxcar Children for the first time, she was desperate for some more mystery books, and this series was the perfect fit for her. She's gone on to read all of this series as well as the Calendar Mysteries and often revisits both when she's out of new books. (26 books in the series)

Gooney Bird by Lois Lowry, illustrated by Middy Thomas. Ella and I listened to one of these together when Ella was just past four, and she wasn't really into it at the time, but a year later, she rediscovered the series and blew through all of these larger-than-life stories that Gooney Bird shares with her new second-grade classroom. (6 books in the series)

Judy Moody by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds. Judy Moody is full of personality and individuality and has a lot of the same appeal as Junie B. Jones, but I find these books much less eyebrow raising. There is also a spin-off series of 12 books featuring her brother, Stink, too. (13 books in the series)

Jakes and Raines Mysteries by Sally Warner, illustrated by Jamie Harper. For the kid who loves a book that's funny AND realistic, they can't go wrong with EllRay Jakes. He may be the smallest kid in his class, but that doesn't stop him from getting into big trouble! (11 books in the series)

Alvin Ho by Lenore Look, illustrated by LeUyen Pham. Alvin Ho is VERY scared of everything, especially school, where he never says a word. But when he's at home? He turns into Firecracker Man who isn't afraid of anything.The first book is included in FreeTime Unlimited. (5 books in the series)

Mighty Meg by Sammy Griffin, illustrated by Micah Player. You know what is a GREAT eighth birthday present? A ring that gives you superpowers. And it's a good thing too because strange things are happening in Meg's town. (4 books in the series)

If your child loves school stories, you can't do better than spunk Katie Woo, plus there are SO many books in the series, so you'll be covered for a while! And many of the titles are included in both Kindle Unlimited and FreeTime Unlimited. (49 books in the series)

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40+ Best Book Series for 1st and 2nd graders

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Do you need some wonderful books for your newest emerging reader? If so, check out this list of some of the best book series for 1st and 2nd graders!

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The Ultimate List of Great Beginning Chapter Book Series

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The Ultimate List of Great Beginning Chapter Book Series

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Beginning chapter books are so important because they are the connection between leveled readers and regular chapter books. You can often recognize beginning/easy chapter books simply by glancing through the interiors. Usually there are still a good number of illustrations and the chapters are incredibly short. Also, the text is often spaced out with extra room between lines and possibly even a larger font. My favorite thing about these books is that they actually have a plot! This is so much fun for new readers and I can't wait for my kiddos to reach this stage.

One thing to note is that there is still quite a range within beginning/easy chapter books. Towards the beginning you have series like "The Princess in Black", then it moves to series like "The Magic Treehouse" series and continues all the way to series like "The Boxcar Kids" which as a whole is on the cusp of middle grade chapter books. All beginning chapter books are geared towards children ages 5-8, but each child learns to read at their own pace and there is a lot of reading development that occurs in just those few years. Below is a list of some fantastic beginning chapter book series that include brand new series that are just starting out as well as some classic series that have been loved for generations. We hope you find a new favorite or two to enjoy!
*this post includes affiliate links
"The Princess in Black" by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale and LeUyen Pham (5-8)- This series is SO much fun! There are tons of full color illustrations (some even full page) and the wittiest little stories about this princess in disguise. A favorite for sure!

"Juana and Lucas" by Juana Medina (5-8)- This brand new series just started, but watch out because the next one is sure to be as fantastic! This story features a little girl in Columbia and even has Spanish words spread throughout. Plus, you see that little award down in the corner? Yup, it's a winner!

First two in the series: Juana and Lucas

"Mrs. Noodlekugel" by Daniel Pinkwater and Adam Stowe (5-9)- Think Mrs. Pigglewiggle, but for an even younger audience. Mrs. Noodlekugel is quirky and does everything with flair nd a bit of magic. Our two protagonists can't get enough, and I'm sure fans can't either!
Mrs. Noodlekugel and Four Blind Mice
"Polly Diamond" by Alice Kuipers and Diana Toledano (6-8)- This is another brand new series that only has one book released so far, but you can bet we are on the alert for the second. It is about a little girl who has a magical book appear at her doorstep one day that has the power to fulfill wishes. It is so cute and, most importantly, I just adore Polly the protagonist.

First two in the series: Polly Diamond and the Magic Book: Book 1

"Narwahl and Jelly" by Ben Clanton (6-9)- This positively clever and humorous series is an absolute must! It is an introduction for new readers to graphic novels and features two friends (a narwhal and jellyfish) that adore waffles and are bursting with creativity. These are ones that I enjoy just as much as my kids!

"Mercy Watson" by Kate DiCamillo and Chris Van Dusen (6-9)- Like The Princess in Black, these books are full of full color illustrations. It is the perfect step-up from picture books to chapter books and are a pure delight to read. They feature a lovable pic with a perchance for trouble and make lovely read-alouds.

"Junie B. Jones" by Barbara Park and Denise Brunkus (6-9)- When my little sister was learning to read I read one of her Junie books out of curiosity and found myself reading as many as I could get my hands on afterwards. They are hilarious and I love how applicable they are for young children.

"The Magic Treehouse" by Mary Pope Osborne and Sal Murdocca (6-9)- This is a series that I fell in love with as a kid and now there are dozens and dozens of them published! I am so excited to share them with my kids and can completely see why they are such a hugely popular series!

"Judy Moody" by Megan McDonald and Peter H. Reynolds (6-9)- Judy is full of spunk and sass and likes to do things her own way. With 14 books in the series (and counting) there is plenty of Judy and her friends to go around.

"Ivy and Bean" by Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall (7-9)- Ivy and Bean are the best of friends and enjoy navigating life together. They have a unique style and a creative solution for just about everything. Kids will delight in how relatable they are and how cute the series is.

"The Borrowers" by Mary Norton and Joe & Beth Krush (7-10)- This is another series that I fell in love with as a kid. The idea of tiny people living under the floorboards of your home and borrowing all the little knick knack that disappear was so appealing to me. You can bet I was so excited when the movie was released!

"The Littles" by John Peterson and Roberta Carter Clark (7-10)- I loved this series as a child just as much, if not more, than The Borrowers. The main difference I could see as a child is that the Littles have mouselike features (such as a tail) and the Borrowers don't. Both series are super fun.

"The Boxcar Children" by Gertrude Chandler Warner and L. Kate Deal (7-10)- Does this series even need an introduction?! Generations of children have loved this series and they are definitely ones worth checking out.
To save this list for later pin the image below:
"Flower Fairy Friends" by Cicely Mary Barker (7-10)- We are fairy fans over here so this series is an absolute must. They tell the sweet and charming little adventures of a bunch of flower fairies that live together in a magical garden. Both the stories and the scattered illustrations are adorable.

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The Ultimate List of Great Beginning Chapter Book Series · Book Nerd Mommy

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Beginning chapter books are so important because they are the connection between leveled readers and regular chapter books. You can often recognize beginning/easy chapter books simply by glancing through the interiors. Usually there are still a good number of illustrations and the chapters are incredibly short.

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Kids Like Me: 18 Books With Diverse Main Characters

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Kids Like Me: 18 Books With Diverse Main Characters

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"We read to know that we are not alone." -William Nicholson, Shadowlands

That's why it's important kids read engaging stories with main characters that are relatable to their lives. Not just to their humanity, but also to their appearance and their culture.

I could recommend hundreds of books with diverse main characters. Here's a shortlist of some to check out.

Baby/Toddler (Ages 0 - 2) and Pre-K (Ages 3 - 5)

Growing Reader (Ages 6 - 8)

Teen (Ages 13+)

by Nisha Sharma

Bollywood-obsessed Winnie Mehta is shocked when her supposed soulmate falls for someone else. With a little help from Dev, a fellow film nerd, Winnie rewrites her love story according to her own script.

For more book suggestions with diverse characters like these, I recommend these blogs:
Editor's Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2020.

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Kids Like Me: 18 Books With Diverse Main Characters | Brightly

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"We read to know that we are not alone." -William Nicholson, Shadowlands That's why it's important kids read engaging stories with main characters that are relatable to their lives. Not just to their humanity, but also to their appearance and their culture. I could recommend hundreds of books with diverse main characters.

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Welcome To Story Hour: 100 Favorite Books For Young Readers

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Welcome To Story Hour: 100 Favorite Books For Young Readers

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It's been such a strange, lost summer. Camps and schools and activities have shut down during the pandemic, leaving kids and caregivers stuck at home and climbing the walls - and sometimes the garden fences.

With that in mind, we decided that this year's summer reader poll should be all about keeping kids occupied. We asked you to tell us about your favorite kids' books, from board books for babies to great read-alouds to early chapter books and even a few books for older readers. And thousands of you answered.

As with all our summer polls, this one isn't a straight-up popularity contest. (Otherwise it would have been nothing but 100 Mo Willems books - and we love Mo Willems, but that wouldn't have been the most useful list.) Rather, it's a curated list built from your recommendations and picks from our expert panel of judges - a fantastic group of authors, librarians, publishers and all-around book nerds. And instead of a ranked list, it's grouped into categories that we hope will help you find just the right books for the kids in your life.

Now, we understand that half the fun of a list is arguing about what didn't make it on - and our judges had to make some hard choices. But there was one easy decision: A few years ago, we did a summer list based on All Things Considered's Backseat Book Club of great reads for kids from 9 to 14. This year's list is focused on younger readers, but we did include a few books for older kids. So if something appeared on the Backseat 100, we didn't include it here. That means no Charlotte's Web, no Matilda and no Little House books (though we've got some wonderful suggestions for Little House fans, like Linda Sue Park's Prairie Lotus).

We want this list to be a tool for discovery, which means we had to walk a delicate path when it comes to books that are undeniable classics - we knew all hell would rain down on us if we left out Where the Wild Things Are or The Very Hungry Caterpillar. But we decided you probably didn't need our help to discover Dr. Seuss, Richard Scarry or The Little Engine that Could, so those didn't make it onto the list.

And as always, we had to decide which work to pick from creators who were nominated multiple times. Readers may remember the Nora Roberts Rule, which came about during 2015's romance poll: No one gets on the list twice UNLESS they're as titanic a figure in their field as Roberts is in romance; we included her in that list under both her own name and her pen name, J.D. Robb.

This year brought an interesting twist. Since many books on the list have both authors and illustrators, we eventually decided that authors could appear only once, but we didn't mind seeing illustrators again. (Hello, Christian Robinson and Vashti Harrison!) And generally, when someone appeared more than once in the nominations, we went with whichever title was more popular with voters (so Kevin Henkes' Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse beat out Kitten's First Full Moon).

You'll also see there's a section of books for older readers. We wanted to recognize that a lot of kids read ahead of their age groups - and also, there have been so many great books that came out since we put together the Backseat 100 list in 2013 that it seemed a shame not to include a few of them here.

We hope you and the kids in your life will have as much fun poring through this list as we had putting it together! We had a blast recalling old favorites and discovering new classics (and a shoutout to our gracious judges, who let me sneak in one of my all-time childhood faves, Paul Goble's gorgeous The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses).

To make things easier, we've split up the list into categories: Picture Perfect, Baby's Bookshelf, Conversation Starters, Family Life, Animal (and Monster) Friends, Folktales and Fairy Tales, Fun to Read Out Loud, Nonfiction, Early Chapter Books, and Older Readers. Happy reading!

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Welcome To Story Hour: 100 Favorite Books For Young Readers

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This year we had kids and caregivers in mind when we chose the genre for our summer poll. So here are 100 favorite kids' books, picked by readers and expert judges, to while away the hours at home.

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Funny Chapter Book Series for Kids (Ages 7-11 Years)

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Funny Chapter Book Series for Kids (Ages 7-11 Years)

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As I have shared previously, my children both love a good dose of humor in their books. This started with picture books and has continued as they moved into chapter books and novels, which has accumulated in this list of over 40 funny chapter books for kids.

These are comedic chapter books filled with humor alongside relatable characters, lots of family, friend and school references that readers will also relate to (often shared with more than a little cheekiness). There's lots to laugh about within these pages!

While some of the featured titles are mre suitable for younger independent readers, there is also plenty to appeal to children in the later years of primary/elementary/middle school. Plus, many of the titles listed are part of a series - these titles offer plenty to encourage your child to keep reading, so the list is probably more like 101 funny chapter books for kids than the 40+ listed!

RELATED: Looking for funny books for kids of different ages? Check out our lists of funny picture books, more funny picture books and funny graphic novels for kids.

40+ Funny Chapter Books for Kids

As with all of the lists in our Chapter Books for Kids collection, each title in this list links to an Amazon and/or Book Depository page (these are affiliate links and I may earn a small commission at no cost to you) where you can find more information and reviews for titles you might not be personally familiar with.

Mr Bambuckle's Remarkables (book 1 of the series) by Tim Harris
The new teacher in Room 12B is somewhat unusual - who else has a teacher who rides a unicycle whilst flipping bacon in a pan in a dazzling blue suit? Tricks and magical illusions aside, Mr Bambuckle is a fabulous teacher, getting to know each and every one of his new students and their own interesting and funny ways, while making learning more than a little exciting and lots of fun!
Available: Amazon | The Book Depository

Does your tween or teen love Star Wars? Check out this list of 21 Star Wars Books.

Funny Girl: Funniest. Stories. EVER. edited by Betsy Bird
A collection of uproarious stories, hilarious comics and rib-tickling wit from 25 of today's funniest female writers for kids.
Available: Amazon | The Book Depository

The Unteachables by Gordon Korman
Mr. Kermit is just putting his time in until retirement. He is saddled with the worst class in the school - these are the kids that everyone has pretty much given up on. The Unteachables never thought they'd find a teacher who had a worse attitude than they did. And Mr. Kermit never thought he would actually care about teaching again. Together they will experience mayhem, destruction, and maybe even a shot at redemptio n. Age 10+ years.
Available: Amazon | The Book Depository

Funniest Stories by Paul Jennings
A fun collection of 25 very funny short stories from one of Australia's most prolific writer of funny books for kids. These are sure to have you laughing out loud! Age 10+ years.
Available: The Book Depository

Do you have a funny chapter book that's super popular with the kids in your classroom or home?
Pin for later:

Christie Burnett is a teacher, presenter, writer and the mother of two. She created Childhood 101 as a place for teachers and parents to access engaging, high quality learning ideas.

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40+ Hilariously Funny Chapter Books for Kids (Ages 6-12 Years)

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As I have shared previously, my children both love a good dose of humor in their books. This started with picture books and has continued as they moved into chapter books and novels, which has accumulated in this list of over 40 funny chapter books for kids.

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Do you have or teach young advanced readers? While I only taught a handful of them in the classroom setting, I know from personal friends and blog readers alike that it can be a challenge to find books for them.

The struggle is real.

On the one hand, you want them to have books on their reading level. While other 1st graders might be starting to read Frog and Toad, young advanced readers might devour entire chapter books in what seems like a couple of hours.

On the other hand, you want the content and subject matter of the books they read to be age-appropriate in regards to things like language or violence {among others}.

*This post contains affiliate links.

Books for Young Advanced Readers

So, what exactly do you do for advanced young readers? Based on my experience, the conversations I've had with parents of advanced readers, and the research I've done, I'm including 40+ books/book series that are great for young advanced readers. {I personally have not read all of these books, but they all came highly recommended.}

I'm including links to the books so you can check them out yourself, as all advanced readers are different. One advanced reader may enjoy a series that another reader doesn't. You may even want to peek at my other book lists to give you more ideas.

I would highly, highly recommend Gladys Hunt's Honey for a Child's Heart. I've had this book for YEARS and even just recently bought the most updated version.

Advanced Readers and Comprehension

Advanced readers are often advanced in saying the words AND understanding their meaning. They have some kind of crazy ability to not only crack the code of phonics and sight words without much {or any} direct instruction, but they can do the same thing with understanding difficult words or concepts.

But that doesn't mean all can. Some may be able to say the words, but not always understand what they mean. And without the comprehension piece, it's not really "reading." It's just "barking" words. If you teach an advanced reader like this, it's important to check out the book for yourself.

A good rule of thumb is: If it's 2 or more grade levels ahead of your reader's physical grade, be prepared to support the reader. Maybe it's reading the first chapter {or the entire book} with him/her, doing a little background research of a certain time period before reading, or listening to the book on audio. No matter how you support the reader, remember that comprehension is key for any reader.

Just as a reminder, all of these books make GREAT read alouds, for ANY kind of reader!

Books for Young Advanced Readers {from easiest to hardest}

The books you'll find in this book list include poetry, classics, series, and some nonfiction. The list of books will go in order from easiest to hardest {about 250L to 990L}, according to their Lexile level, which measures the difficulty of the book.

&

Poetry is a great place to start! These books/collections contain poems on all different levels, but that's okay. Reading and even memorizing poetry can support readers and writers of all ages! Here are some of our favorites:

Magic Tree House {series} by Mary Pope Osborne is one of the first "real" chapter books my older boys read. And I enjoyed reading many of the magical adventures of Jack and Annie with them. There are lots of books in this set, although I will say that the books later in the series become more difficult in reading level. {240L-400L, depending on the book}

A-Z Mysteries Series by Ron Roy - Yes, another mystery series. I've only read one book in this series, but I was impressed with the complexity of the plot and how it required kids to really infer. Definitely a step higher Nate the Great and Young Cam. {around 420L-600L, depending on the book}

Cam Jansen {series} by David Adler - I've long recommended this book for older, struggling readers, but it's equally as effective for young, advanced readers. Cam, a 5th grader, has a photographic memory and uses it to solve cases. {420L-500L}

Fudge Books by Judy Blume includes Tales of the Fourth Grade Nothing, Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great, Superfudge, Fudge-a-Mania, and Double Fudge. I remember reading these as a child and so far, I've read two with my own kids. {470-590L}

Judy Moody {series} by Megan McDonald - This was the first series of chapter books that my oldest son wanted to read on his own and I was SO excited! Once this series became popular, Judy's younger brother, Stink, also go his own series of chapter books! {around 530L}

Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting - My 2nd grader took to Dr. Dolittle the moment I read him a paragraph! His ability to talk to and help animals is a child's dream, really! {580L} I will warn you that the next book in this series, The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle, takes quite a jump in reading level.

The Magic Faraway Tree {series} by Enid Blyton - If your reader wants fantasy, this is the series for him/her! It's filled with all kinds of interesting characters and of course, the Magic Faraway Tree. {around 630L} Your reader may like other books by Enid Blyton, too.

Charlotte's Web by E.B. White has been a favorite of mine ever since I was introduced to it in the 4th grade. Love the sweet story of friendship. No list for advanced readers would be complete without this title, in my opinion. {680L} Stuart Little may also become a favorite, although it's on a higher level of reading at 920L.

My new favorite series is The Green Ember series by Sam D. Smith. Oh my! Talk about an adventure! With medieval elements, the story follows the story of two young rabbits who are fighting evil wolves and birds of prey to reclaim their home in the Mended Wood. The themes are classic and the imagery Smith uses is top-notch. I will warn that if you have a young reader who is especially sensitive to violence {like battle scenes and death}, this might not be the best fit. This has been the first series that all four of my kids have enjoyed...and I've found myself hiding in a closet to read ahead!! {730L-790L}

Nancy Drew Mystery Series by Carolyn Keene - Another classic mystery series, written by the same writer as The Hardy Boys series. Writing of this series started in the 1930's, so they are true classics! {710L-780L} There's also a newer version of this series called Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew, which is on a lower reading level around 580L.

Charlie and Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl is another one of his timeless classics. Willie Wonka opens up his chocolate factory for a tour to five lucky kids. Talk about imagination and creativity! This book is FULL of it! {810L}

Frindle by Andrew Clements - Determined to drive his language arts teacher a bit crazy, Nick creates a new word for pen: frindle. It catches on and spreads all over the country! {830L}

Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren - Pippi is new in the neighborhood and she's as spunky and hilarious as ever! I've enjoyed reading excerpts aloud to my kids as a teaser and can't wait to read more! {870L}

Harry Potter {books 1-3} by J.K. Rowling - Many might be surprised that I'd include the Harry Potter books on this list, as I know many families with advanced readers who have not allowed their readers to read this series. I will say that I only recommend books 1-3 for young, advanced readers. I have not read all of the books {shame on me!}, but I have heard that each book after book 3 gets a little darker, a little more mature in content, and a little more difficult to read. One reader said that starting with 1st grade, she read aloud one book a year, to slow the pace down a bit. {books 1-3 are around 880L}

The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis is the most well-known book in the Chronicles of Narnia and for good reason. I don't remember reading it as a child, but have as an adult. I simply could not put it down. It's a great read aloud, too! {940L}

Want more Nonfiction Texts?

Nonfiction is powerful, especially if your reader has a particular interest. Check out Our Favorite Nonfiction Series Books!

Enjoy!
~Becky

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Books for Young Advanced Readers - This Reading Mama

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Do you have or teach young advanced readers? While I only taught a handful of them in the classroom setting, I know from personal friends and blog readers alike that it can be a challenge to find books for them. The struggle is real.

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16 Great Chapter Books for Third Graders

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16 Great Chapter Books for Third Graders

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Wondering what book to pick up for your third grader?

As they develop more independence and the ability to read longer and more complex stories, the world of children's literature really opens up.

These new and classic titles are perfect for all kinds of third-grade readers. They're also great for reading aloud, if that's more your child's speed. Or you can try alternating back and forth - they read a page, then you read a page - so they can practice their reading but not get so bogged down they lose sight of the story arc.

No matter how you use these books, all 16 are winners.

Editor's Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2023.

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16 Great Chapter Books for Third Graders | Brightly

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As third graders develop more independence and the ability to read longer and more complex stories, the world of children's literature really opens up.

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One of my all-time favorite things to do as a teacher is to buy new books! I thought that over the years, this habit would slow down...but it doesn't! I could spend hours in a bookstore in the children's section!! Third grade is a big year for reading because students start to really get into chapter books! And what better way to hook students into reading than with a series!! We asked fellow 3rd-grade teachers in our Facebook group what were the best series for 3rd grade and this is just a few of their suggestions! *This post may contain affiliate links*

What are some of your favorite chapter books series that are not on this list?

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One of my all-time favorite things to do as a teacher is to buy new books! I thought that over the years, this habit would slow down...but it doesn't! I could spend hours in a bookstore in the children's section!! Third grade is a big year for reading because students start to really get into chapter books!

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Famous authors share the titles that made them readers—and that will captivate your child too.

A teddy bear's search for his lost button. A wimpy kid's misadventures in middle school. Whatever the plot, the first book you adored stays with you forever. Parents asked beloved authors for the title that opened their eyes (or their children's) to the joy of reading. The gems on this remarkable list will turn your kids into readers too.

Read More:

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Reading Tips to Support Your First Grade Reader

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Reading Tips to Support Your First Grade Reader

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7 Tips for Building Better Independent Reading Skills in Grades 3-5

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7 Tips for Building Better Independent Reading Skills in Grades 3-5

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Congratulations: Your child is ready for the upper grades! Between 3rd and 5th grade, they'll be mastering the basic concepts introduced in grades 1-2 and laying a solid foundation for the middle school years ahead.

While children in these grades are still very much children, developmentally, the curricula in grades 3-5 will encourage them to think more deeply and make connections within the material. In short, they'll be set up to learn more independently and depend less on teacher guidance.

Readers in grades 3-5 become more sophisticated as well in how they navigate texts. In addition to reading a broader array of material, like plays, poetry, and nonfiction, they'll compare and contrast how different genres of writing address the same issue or theme. Your child will begin to learn how to gather information from source material - whether data from nonfiction or character quotes from fiction - to answer questions and prove ideas.

To be successful in the classroom, it's important that your child continue reading. A daily commitment can make their transition to the upper grades a smooth one. Joe Saenz, a 5th grade teacher in New Jersey, recommends these seven tips for building a better independent reader in grades 3-5.

1. Read aloud with your child. The read-aloud routine you started from birth will still be used in the classroom as a strategy for pointing out different perspectives within a text. Now that your child is older, you can take turns reading chapters from a book of their choice. There's no age limit for being read to!

2. Encourage all reading. Always keep a variety of quality reading materials within reach. These can be books, magazines, newspapers, or digital content if your children use the internet. Books should be age-appropriate, but don't discourage their interest - advanced readers enjoy re-reading favorites from childhood as much as they do trying books above grade level.

3. Record (and look up) unknown words. Your child will encounter many more unknown, particularly multisyllabic, words during the stretch between grades 3-5. Make learning these words fun by encouraging them to write down any unknown words in a journal, then you can look them up together in the dictionary. Here's a tip: Have your child try to identify the meaning of the word first using context clues.

4. Encourage reading for information. In the upper grades there's an expectation your child can analyze and summarize complex concepts. Nonfiction demonstrates how information can be packaged and presented for deeper understanding, whether through graphs and charts or a chronology of events. This includes news, which you can read with your child daily and talk about at the dinner table.

5. Discuss the books your child is reading. Being able to talk about different character (or narrator) perspectives and how they affect the overall content of a book is a hallmark of the upper grades. Ask your child about what they're reading: what an author's main theme is, how the characters are alike and different, what your child likes and dislikes about the story, and how it compares to other books they've read.

6. Expect plateaus. Following some big leaps in their progress, your child may stay at the same reading level for several months - and that's OK! Encourage them to read what interests them, even if it's an old favorite. If they're struggling with a text, reading the same material along with them will give extra motivation to finish.

7. Set a good example. You are your child's best role model. If you want them to love reading, show that you do, too. Read in front of them every day, for pleasure and for information.
For more tips on finding books at the right level for your child, visit our guide on reading levels for kids, including a reading guide for ages 8-10.
Shop popular books for kids in grades 3-5 below. You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store.

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7 Tips for Building Better Independent Reading Skills in Grades 3-5

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Try these simple strategies to make reading a lifelong habit for your child.

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| | Filed Under: Back to School, Reading

I'll never forget one of the very first parent-teacher conferences I held. I had just gotten done explaining that the student, this couple's daughter, was struggling with comprehension. Her mother nodded and said, "Okay. How can we support her reading at home?"

In that moment, I was both ecstatic that they wanted to support their 5th grade reader at home, and panicked, because I didn't have a ready list or answer for them. I remember quickly rattling off some ideas while thinking to myself, "I need a way to help show parents how they can support 4th and 5th grade readers at home."

Since that day, I have handed out tips during parent-teacher conferences, so that they can help support their readers at home. The tips are on a simple, one-page printable that features the suggestions below. I've had parents report back that it has made a big difference in the way they approach homework and reading in general. Instead of being bystanders in their child's reading progress, the tips have given them ways to get involved and actively support their child's success. On this post, I will share those parent-teacher conference tips that I share with parents AND the free printable I hand out.

Parent-Conference Tips : Supporting 4th and 5th Grade Readers at Home

1. Read What We're Reading

Before beginning a new chapter read aloud (we only do about 2 of these a year), I send home a note to parents that lists the title and author of the book that we will be working on. One of the ways that they can support their reader at home is by reading the book themselves. This not only gives them insight into what we're studying in class, it also opens the gate for dialogue about the book outside of the classroom. Now, I'm not the only one asking students to explain what's happening in the story, parents are, too. If parents cannot afford a copy of the book, I have a few loaner copies that I lend out. The public library is also a great spot for picking up a copy of the book.

2. Ask Questions

I always encourage parents to ask questions about whatever their child is reading at home. If my parents need it, I give them a list of questions and prompts to help them talk with their child about what they are reading. I give one handout for talking about fiction books and one for talking about nonfiction books. These two handouts can be downloaded at the end of this post with the tips printable.

3. Read Aloud to Your Child

In addition to discussing and reading the book we are studying in the classroom, I also encourage parents to read aloud with their children. Even 4th and 5th graders love being read to and it is a fabulous way to build their listening comprehension skills. I recommend they pick a favorite book from their childhood or a new one that you discover together at the bookstore or library. I always tell the parents that it really doesn't matter what the book is as long as they are both interested in it. In fact, the book can even be in the child and parent's native language, which is always a huge surprise to them.

4. Have Your Child Read Aloud to You

Each day, my students are assigned 30-minutes of reading homework. One student consistently had way more than that amount and I asked her how she did it. She explained that her mom asked her to read aloud to her as they were driving to school each morning. It took 10-minutes to get to school, so each week she was getting even more reading practice in because she was still reading 30 minutes in the evening. Since she was the one reading aloud, it helped her improve her fluency and comprehension, as well as her expression while reading. By the end of the year, she was, by far, the most expressive, confident reader in my class- even though she did not start off that way!

5. Have Your Child Read Everything

My goal is to cultivate confident readers, so that means that they need to be sure of their reading skills in and outside of books. I encourage parents to give their child the reading tasks in as many situations as possible. That means, if they are cooking together, the parent encourages the child to read the recipe they are following. Not only will it expose the child to new vocabulary, but it will test their comprehension and give them a hands-on outlet for demonstrating what they just read. Instruction pamphlets and booklets are also great teaching tools for parents to use at home. Instead of assembling that bookcase on their own, parents can have their child read the directions. It's a win-win for everyone.

6. Let Them Listen to Audiobooks

Listening to audiobooks is great for struggling readers and those with dyslexia, but it is also an option for more confident readers. Much like having parents read aloud, audiobooks encourage visualization, imagination, and the development of oral comprehension. There are many free audio book resources available online - including many local libraries.

7. Set Aside Time to Read Each Day

One of the most challenging things for parents and students is finding time to fit everything in during the day. I always encourage them to make reading - if only for 5-10 minutes - a priority that is non-negotiable. If parents are busy working or doing household chores, this can something that is done with the children only. If parents have younger children not in school, I always recommend having their older child read aloud to them. This will help the older child and the younger children.

As with all home-school connections, the key to supporting readers at home is to help parents get involved. As the teacher, encourage parents by giving them the information they need to support reading (i.e. - books being read, questions to ask, etc.) and provide them with ideas like the ones above. Together, you will make a powerful team that can directly impact a child's reading success.
Click here or on the image below to download the free printable of tips and the "Talking About Books" handout!
Download the FREE "Supporting Readers at Home" Printable and Talking About Books Handouts

I hope these strategies will you support your parents this year! Do you have any parent-teacher conference tips when it comes to reading? Let me know in the comments!

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Parent-Teacher Conference Tips : Supporting 4th and 5th Grade Readers at Home

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Filed Under: Back to School, Reading I'll never forget one of the very first parent-teacher conferences I held. I had just gotten done explaining that the student, this couple's daughter, was struggling with comprehension. Her mother nodded and said, "Okay. How can we support her reading at home?"

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How to Encourage Good Reading Habits at Home

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How to Encourage Good Reading Habits at Home

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Not a school year or parent-teacher conference goes by without parents asking me how they can encourage their children to read at home. I love providing parents with easy to implement reading tips and activities that will keep their child's nose buried inside a book!

At home reading of any kind can provide students with organic reading experiences while helping to strengthening young readers' skills like decoding new words, using context clues, and implementing reading strategies to help boost comprehension. Besides strengthen their skills as a reader, at home reading can help instill a love of reading for pleasure, too.

Encouraging students to read at home is not at all the same as encouraging them to read in the classroom is. Encouraging reluctant readers to read at home is even harder. These easy to implement and screen-free reading tips, tricks, and activities will help your students (and children) read at home and look forward to it, too!

These ideas are perfect for:

at home and distance learning

summer reading

enrichment reading activities

extra practice for students of all levels

or any time for any reason!

Below is my go-to, tried, and tested at home reading activities that I always share with parents to get kids reading at home...and loving it! All you need to implement these reading at home ideas is a good book a few common household items. Read more about each idea below and grab a FREE printable list of these activities HERE.
Create an At-Home Reading Nook

At school, students have special spots to read. It is highly motivating and students love to get to their spot and dive into a book. By creating a spot at home, too, students can "get away" in a place all their own to read. Ideas to put in their special at home reading nooks include, pillows, blankets, a book box, bookmark, and flashlight for nighttime reading!

Set Specific Family Time to Read

Modeling reading at home is so important! Carve out time every day for family reading time. This can be a short amount of time (15-20 minutes) where everyone in the family stops what they are doing and reads. It can be anything from a book to a magazine. When children see the important people in their lives reading, they will want to read even more!

Set a Goal and Track It

Encourage reading at home by setting simple goals! Simply challenge students to read a certain amount of books and track what they read. Writing about the book is not necessary. Use the FREE bookshelf book tracker below to encourage reading at home. Just simply color in one of the books on the bookshelf to keep track of the books that they are reading. When kids fill up the bookshelf with books that they have read, reward them! Keep the rewards simple and fun like having a little extra time to play outside.

Find a Character They Love

When children connect with characters that they love, especially characters in book series, they will want to read an entire series! Encourage children to try different books until they find characters that they connect with and love! Those characters will become their best friends and they will devour the books in the series. Some series and books that I always recommend to parents include:

Use Student Interests and Allow them to Read Anything

Make a day of heading to the book store and library and spend some time finding books about the child's specific interests. This can include sports, science, any hobby or craft, funny books, going on vacations, anything that will hold their interest and keep them reading! Do not hold students to just reading chapter books. They can read nonfiction books and magazines, how-to books, cooking books, picture books, anything that is appropriate for their age, and keeps them reading is just what they need.

Get it in the Mail

My own children always loved getting books and magazine subscriptions in the mail! The day that a Highlights, National Geographic, Brainspace, or Sports Illustrated Kids magazine arrived was always so exciting for them. There are so many magazines that kids can get a subscription for that will keep them reading and anticipating the latest issue. Magazine subscriptions make a great holiday or birthday gift from family members, too!

Read with a Purpose

Model with kids how reading is not just for pleasure, but for purpose, too. If you are looking up a recipe, how to fix something, or even just something that you are curious about, share that information with the kids. The next time that they have a question, help them look up how to find the answer in a book or online. Kids love to solve their own problems, so encourage them to read to solve them!

The next time a parent asks you how they can help encourage reading at home, share these ideas and give them thisFREE print out of at-home reading tips. Download the simple reading goal page below to provide parents with even more resources to encourage reading at home, or use them in your classroom with your students. If you get asked about writing at home, grab this FREE printable to share with parents.

Looking for digital resources for reading practice anywhere? Click HERE.

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How to Encourage Good Reading Habits at Home

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Not a school year or parent-teacher conference goes by without parents asking me how they can encourage their children to read at home. I love providing parents with easy to implement reading tips and activities that will keep their child's nose buried inside a book!

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Reading at Home Can Make a HUGE Difference!

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Reading at Home Can Make a HUGE Difference!

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The 5 Finger "Tips" of Choosing a Book to Read

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The 5 Finger "Tips" of Choosing a Book to Read

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18 Genius Ways to Make Kids Love Reading

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18 Genius Ways to Make Kids Love Reading

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In addition to picturing my children being impeccably mannered, perfectly behaved angels, I also envisioned them devouring books the way I did as a child. My son would tear through the Hardy Boys and Harry Potter while my daughters fell in love with Judy Blume, Beverly Cleary, and The Baby-Sitters Club series. But like most of my parenting fantasies, this one hasn't quite come true yet.

Apparently this is not uncommon. "We want to get kids reading, but they are under increasing pressure to do so, and it can overshadow the joy of this wonderful shared activity," says Nancy Carlsson-Paige, Ed.D., a professor emerita at Lesley University, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and the author of Taking Back Childhood. Of course, part of what makes reading enjoyable is being able to do it confidently. However, "parents shouldn't be the ones reinforcing lessons or obsessing about fundamentals," Dr. Carlsson-Paige notes. "They should simply be reading with their kids-that's it." In other words, keep it light and fun. Books should make you laugh and smile, transport you to faraway lands, and transform you into dragon-slaying sleuths, making you feel all the feels along the way. "If we treat books like they're magical, kids will grow up believing that too," says Shanna Schwartz, lead senior staff developer at Columbia University Teachers College Reading and Writing Project in New York City.

Start with these expert- and mom-approved ideas and the magic will follow.

1. Swap Ariana Grande for an audiobook.

Yes, audiobooks count as reading-and they can help children do it better. "Hearing someone reading a book confidently is a great way to experience fluency, which is the ability to read a text accurately, quickly, and with good expression," says Elissa Mostransky, a grade-school reading teacher and mother of four. Her favorites: E. B. White reading Charlotte's Web and The Magic Tree House series, which her boys listen to in the car on the way to and from soccer practice. Borrow them at your library, or get a free listening app at Audible.com.

2. Model reading love.

"Children take cues from adults," says Schwartz. "When you grow up surrounded by junk food, you like junk food. When you grow up surrounded by books, you like books." Annette Uvena, a mom of two reluctant readers, shares her excitement often: "I make sure they see me reading, but I also talk to them about the book. I'll excitedly point out something that reminds me of the story, because I want them to see that books bring me joy and will bring them joy too."

3. Theme your nook.

A quiet, cozy, full-of-books nook is a must. "Kids love forts, so just draping two chairs with a blanket can do the trick," says Christina Droskoski, a grade-school reading specialist and mother of three. "But working with your child to make it an area where she'd want to hang out makes reading time even more appealing." Consider a beach theme: towels on the floor, a beach umbrella propped against the wall, a poster of the ocean, and sand buckets to house the books. Other possibilities: a pirate's cove, rain forest, or spaceship.

4. Help bring books to life.

Finding book-inspired activities to do IRL extends the experience, says Dr. Carlsson-Paige. If your 3-year-old loves The Three Little Pigs, take him to see some piggies in person. Reading about the stars? Head to the planetarium. Or take a bookcation-to London after reading Harry Potter, say, or New York City after reading Stuart Little.

5. Celebrate writers.

Start with Dr. Seuss-March 2 is his birthday. (He'd be 113!) To commemorate the occasion, the National Education Association instituted Read Across America Day for schools to participate in reading competitions, games, and parties. Celebrate at home by introducing your kids to one of the good doctor's lesser-known works. Some possibilities:

6. Read the book, then watch the movie.

Pick a classic that's been turned into a movie- Bridge to Terabithia; The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe; or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory -and read it together, a few chapters at a time. When you're finished, host a family movie night to watch the film version. "It's a great way to motivate reluctant readers," says Katie Vaccaro, a grade-school teacher and mother of two.

7. Stash books all over.

"Surrounding kids with books at an early age gets them hooked," says Alice Sterling Honig, Ph.D., a child development expert at Syracuse University, in New York. Curate a basket to reflect the current season-they'll be excited to see new titles, and tying them to what's going on that month will bolster their interest. No holiday on the horizon? Hit the library for topics your kid is currently digging. Leave them out (even on the floor of the car!) and they will pick them up. "Don't keep books up on shelves," says Dr. Honig. "Let little kids touch them, carry them around, even take waterproof ones into the bath."

8. Read aloud-even when they don't need it.

"Reading aloud is both educational and social, so there are layers of value there," says Dr. Carlsson-Paige. Plus, children learn to read best-and to love it most-when they hear countless stories over many years in a meaningful context (think cuddling on a parent's lap). Listening also gives tired readers a break. Dr. Carlsson-Paige loves C. S. Lewis, E. B. White, and Roald Dahl for read-alouds. GuysRead.com, specifically for boys, and ReadingRockets.org are excellent sites for book ideas broken down by age and interests.

9. Turn your library visits into adventures.

Lean on librarians-they're paid to make reading magical for kids. Check in at the front desk before hitting the stacks to see what kind of activities might be going on. Bookmark the website, too, so you can see upcoming events. "Even if you take your kid there for, say, a building project, he's going to associate the library with fun, and that's a good thing," says Droskoski. And be sure to get each of your children a library card. "It will help them take ownership of the reading experience," she adds.

10. Reread the same books to little ones.

Books advance early language development. At first, kids notice the pictures; then they learn to turn the pages; then they realize the story is the same each time-all key pre-reading skills. Books with rhymes are especially beneficial: "Rhyming helps with phonemic awareness-recognizing repetition and sounds," Dr. Carlsson-Paige says. "Kids love rhymes because they learn what comes next and can chime in." Titles to try:

1. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? byBill Martin, Jr.

2. The Pout-Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen

3. Is Your Mama a Llama? by Deborah Guarino

4. How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight? by Jane Yolen

11. Conquer the log.

Mostransky has her three older kids gather on the couch Sunday mornings, and they read together in their pajamas for about an hour. Then, when the craziness of the week comes, no one has to stress about cramming in 20 minutes of reading on top of all the other homework. "Once you start forcing kids to read, you're taking the fun right out of it," says Mostransky. If the kids can't get it done-or they fall asleep, as often happens-they can list one of the books they read on Sunday on their reading log!

12. Get cooking.

"When ingredients and instructions are read slowly many times, it improves comprehension," notes Droskoski. Get a cookbook at the library ( Cooking Class and Kid Chef are both great) and let your child pick a meal to make with you. "Ask her to read the recipe out loud while you chop," says Droskoski. "Then switch roles." Have her write out a menu too-incorporating writing in play also bolsters reading skills.

13. Start a club.

All it takes is two people reading the same book. Have your child ask a friend, or make it a mother-child endeavor. Pick a deadline and a meeting place, and bring a few discussion questions to get things going (best part, favorite character, ideas for an alternate ending). "Reading is a social activity, and book clubs are a great way to share the experience with friends or family," says Dr. Carlsson-Paige, who is in a book club with her granddaughter. (They have meetings over Skype!)

14. Ask questions.

This enhances comprehension-and enjoyment. (It's no fun if they don't get what's going on.) "It's not about grilling, it's about checking in," says Dr. Carlsson-Paige. Ask which characters he likes best, what he thinks will happen next, what he would do in that situation. "If you over-focus on letters and sounds at the expense of the story, children aren't as likely to become good readers," she explains. "If you're a good reader, you read fast-you're not looking at every letter, you're reading for meaning, which is what fuels the reading process."

15. Turn to books at tough times.

"Add books to any passion in a child's life-or to any struggle," says Schwartz. Getting a puppy? Add a book. Starting a new school? Add a book. "You're saying that books can help when they're feeling sad, or excited, or anything," she notes. Have the "book fairy" drop it off: "Wrap the book and leave it with a note-'I heard you're going to be a big sister. This will help you learn about your new role. Love, the Book Fairy.'" Some scenario-specific suggestions:

1. Much Bigger Than Martin, by Steven Kellogg, for sibling rivalry

2. Penguin Problems, by Jory John, for a grumpy, negative attitude

3. , by Leo Lionni, for dealing with adversity and bullies

4. The Tenth Good Thing About Barney, by Judith Viorst, for the loss of a pet

5. Where Do They Go? by Julia Alvarez, for coping with death

16. Get a little goofy.

Buy your older readers a headlamp so they can stay up "past bedtime." It helps remind them that reading is a treat and a privilege-and they'll feel grown-up. Bonus: You can borrow the headlamp for winter grilling!

17. Count on magazines.

"Magazines help teach kids that current information is valuable," says Schwartz. "They give us the opportunity to become interested in things we didn't know we cared about." Getting a new issue is exciting, and it's important to build a ritual around that for your child, Schwartz suggests. If your child gets Highlights, for example, maybe he'll always go first to the hidden-picture page. Or perhaps he'll like reading National Geographic Kids while sitting by the big window overlooking the yard.

18. Give the gift that keeps them reading.

When your MIL asks about birthday presents, suggest books! Have your kids give them to their friends too, with an inscription that tells the recipient why this book is special for her. "You're teaching your child that books are a way to connect with others," says Schwartz.

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18 Genius Ways to Make Kids Love Reading

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In addition to picturing my children being impeccably mannered, perfectly behaved angels, I also envisioned them devouring books the way I did as a child. My son would tear through the Hardy Boys and Harry Potter while my daughters fell in love with Judy Blume, Beverly Cleary, and The Baby-Sitters Club series.

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Our MackinVIA eBooks can also be searched in Destiny. Selecting “open” in Destiny will redirect to Mackin.

How to use MackinVia on the app (recommended method) - video

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MackinVIA is a complete eResource management system providing easy access to eBooks and educational databases. With just one login, users can view, utilize, and manage all of their eResources.

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The 50 Best Books for 11- and 12-Year-Olds

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The 50 Best Books for 11- and 12-Year-Olds

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Eleven and twelve is a time of big change for kids, both emotionally and physically. Which is why reading coming-of-age books becomes very relevant at this age. Just like the characters in the books they're reading, 11- and 12-year-olds are experiencing emotional mood swings and physical changes from puberty that can lead to increased feelings of self-consciousness. Kids this age are also highly influenced by friends, wanting more independence from parents, and making improvements in their abstract thinking abilities. Preteens need good books that both resonate with their complex lives as well as educate and entertain them.

Which brings us to this book list - our 50 best books for 11- and 12- year-olds, curated by a panel of children's literature experts. You'll find a wide variety here, excellent books that appeal to a range of preteen interests, backgrounds, and even moods.

You can download the entire printable list here.

Coming-of-Age&nbsp

These characters grow and change by facing life's challenges. Readers will connect with the struggles of daily life and growing up. What's more, you're more likely to develop empathy and understanding after walking a mile in someone else's story.

Learn more about the experts behind this reading list.

Get the printable version of the list.

Explore our 50 Best series to get great recommendations for other ages.

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The 50 Best Books for 11- and 12-Year-Olds | Brightly

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Eleven and twelve is a time of big change for kids, both emotionally and physically. Which is why reading coming-of-age books becomes very relevant at this age. Just like the characters in the books they're reading, 11- and 12-year-olds are experiencing emotional mood swings and physical changes from puberty that can lead to increased feelings of self-consciousness.

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https://www.brainpop.com/assignment-landing/
Username and Password:

Students and teachers should use their Google sign-in to access BrainPop/BrainPop Jr at home this summer.

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Our friends at Unite for Literacy have developed a fun and free library of digital books on topics such as nature, health, families, and community helpers, best for children ages 3-8.  They will only work online while you are connected to the internet, but they also have voice overs and other interactive features for you to explore over and over again. See more below.  And yes, they really are free!

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Unite for Literacy provides free digital access to picture books, narrated in many languages. Literacy is at the core of a healthy community, so we unite with partners to enable all families to read with their young children.

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Books That Will Get 4th & 5th Graders Psyched About Reading

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Books That Will Get 4th & 5th Graders Psyched About Reading

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For many years now at school I've been running 'Girl Zone Book Club'- a reading group for Year Six students and a significant woman in their life - mother, aunt, grandma, older sister, cousin, family friend...even a dad or uncle will do. This Book Club is an opportunity to talk, laugh and learn through a shared love of reading.

This book club runs much like an adult book club and focus books chosen are 'crossover' novels, ones which both adults and adolescents can enjoy. The book club is for students who adore reading and for those who do not and perhaps need a little nudge in the right direction. This is not an extra class for students, this is for the pure joy of recreational reading and to encourage reading as a social activity.

This series of posts (part two and part three will also be useful) are to share the titles we have read and enjoyed over the past four or five years. These titles will be useful if you are setting up your own bookclub for 11-13 year olds or if you are needing to give your 'senior fiction' reading section in your primary school library a bit of a boost.

Titles can be purchased by clicking on title links or cover images.

List One: Book Club Titles

'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' by Ransom Riggs
'The Lie Tree' by Frances Hardinge
'Phyllis Wong and the Secrets of Mr Okyto' by Geoffrey McSkimming
'Out of My Mind' by Sharon Draper
'My Life as an Alphabet' by Barry Jonsberg
'Counting by 7s' by Holly Goldberg Sloan
'Wonder' by R.J. Palacio
'Louis Beside Himself' by Anna Feinberg
'Paper Planes' by Steve Worland
'Refuge' by Jackie French
'Girl Detective': Friday Barnes Book One by R.A. Spratt
'Island of the Blue Dolphins' by Scott O'Dell
'The Red Necklace: A Story of the French Revolution' by Sally Gardner
'Forget Me Not' by Sue Lawson
'Ship of Dolls' by Shirley Parenteau
'Caro was Here' by Elizabeth Farrelly
'Mosquito Advertising' by Kate Hunter

'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' by Ransom Riggs (plus sequels)

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Book Club Books Part 1 - Children's Books Daily...

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For many years now at school I've been running 'Girl Zone Book Club'- a reading group for Year Six students and a significant woman in their life - mother, aunt, grandma, older sister, cousin, family friend...even a dad or uncle will do. This Book Club is an opportunity to talk, laugh and learn through a...

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25 Magnificent Middle-Grade Novels To Get Your Hands On ASAP

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25 Magnificent Middle-Grade Novels To Get Your Hands On ASAP

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1. Books

·

Posted on Aug 2, 2020

Get ready to immerse yourself in these incredible reads.

1. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia (2020)

Rick Riordan Presents, Via kwamembalia.com

Certain to go down in literary history as one of the best middle grade novels of all time, Kwame Mbalia's debut is a delight for mythology, adventure, and magic lovers of all ages. Tristan is supposed to be spending a month at his grandparents' farm in Alabama, where he's being sent to heal after a bus accident that took his best friend Eddie's life. All he has left of Eddie is a notebook of his stories... which is stolen by a doll-like creature on his first night at the farm. In the ensuing struggle, Tristan punches a tree, accidentally opening a chasm into the MidPass, and landing him in the middle of a conflict involving Black American folk heroes (such as Brer Rabbit and John Henry) and West African Gods (such as Anansi, the Weaver).

Get it from Bookshop for $16.55, Barnes and Noble for $15.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

2. Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga (2019)

Balzer + Bray, Via jasminewarga.com

Jude and her mom have just come to live in Ohio with her uncle, leaving her dad and brother behind in Syria. Adjusting to a new culture is hard enough, but with half her family on the other side of the world, and people putting labels on her that she's never expected, she'll need to find herself and rediscover what home means. Jasmine Warga describes the new surprises in Jude's life — such as new friends and a school musical — through gorgeous free verse.

Get it from Bookshop for $15.63, Barnes and Noble for $15.29, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

3. The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom by Christopher Healy (2013)

Walden Pond Press, Christopher Healy

You've heard of the Prince Charmings, right? Well, let me tell you, they all have names — Prince Liam, Prince Frederic, Prince Duncan, and Prince Gustav, to be precise — and they'd like the world to use them. It should also be known that their princesses are quite capable of saving themselves, so really the only option for our four princes is for them to band together and form a League of Heroes and go off fighting battles — which they're still not really great at.

Get it from Bookshop for $7.35, Barnes and Noble for $7.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

4. The Only Black Girls in Town by Brandy Colbert (2020)

Little, Brown, Jessie Weinberg

Alberta is thrilled when she finds out that the new owners of the bed and breakfast across the street have a 12-year-old daughter just like her — finally, she won't be the only Black girl in town. While Alberta loves being a California girl, Edie misses her native Brooklyn and is struggling with the adjustment to their small town. When the girls discover a box of old journals in the bed and breakfast, they decide to investigate who they belonged to and why they were left in the attic.

Get it from Bookshop for $15.62, Barnes and Noble for $16.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

5. Hurricane Season by Nicole Melleby (2019)

Algonquin, Liz Welch

Fig and her father, a once-renowned piano player, live in a beachside town where hurricane season lasts long months. Sometimes, her dad will go looking for the music in the middle of a storm, and when he shows up at school one day, confused and looking for her, it brings social services to their door. With the help of her best friend, her new neighbor, a cute girl at the library, and the art class she's taking to help her see the world through her dad's eyes, she learns that it's okay to make your own definition of family.

Get it from Bookshop for $7.31, Barnes and Noble for $7.95, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

6. Just South of Home by Karen Strong (2019)

Simon & Schuster, Stephanie Ifendu

Sarah is 12 years old, and finally considered old enough to watch — aka boss around — her younger brother, Ellis, rather than being bossed around by their grandmother. But her plans for this summer are squashed when their cousin Janie, who has a knack for getting into trouble, comes to stay with them. And their journey soon turns into much more when they discover a deep-seated part of their town's racist past.

Get it from Bookshop for $8.27, Barnes and Noble for $8.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

7. Front Desk by Kelly Yang (2018)

Scholastic, Via kellyyang.com

Ten-year-old Mia Tang wants to be a writer, but her mom thinks she should stick to math since English isn't her first language. Her parents are immigrants, and they all work at the Calivista Motel: Every day, while her parents clean the rooms, Mia manages the front desk. She also keeps a big secret — her parents hide immigrants in the empty rooms of the motel, and if Mr. Yao, the mean owner of the motel, found out, they'd all be in big trouble. So Mia starts to wonder if there's a way her dream of writing could help her parents and the immigrants they assist.

Get it from Bookshop for $7.35, Barnes and Noble for $7.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

8. The Whispers by Greg Howard (2019)

Putnam, Jamie Wright Images

Eleven-year-old Riley has a lot of wishes: that the bullies at school would leave him alone; that his crush, Dylan, would like him back; that he'd stop wetting the bed; and, most importantly, that his missing mom would come home. Determined to find her, he and his friend Gary go on a camping trip where Riley plans to track down the Whispers — magical wood creatures that grant wishes.

Get it from Bookshop for $8.27, Barnes and Noble for $8.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

9. A Good Kind of Trouble by Lisa Moore Ramée (2019)

Balzer + Bray, Rod Searcey

Shayla is a rule follower. All she wants to do is get through seventh grade without causing any trouble (and maybe learn to run track and get a cute boy's attention along the way). But in the midst of friendship woes, and some classmates saying she isn't Black enough, Shayla starts to question the rules she thought she understood. After attending a protest with her sister, Hana, Shay starts wearing an armband to school in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. Everyone at school takes sides, and when Shay is issued an ultimatum, she must face her choice head on.

Get it from Bookshop for $7.35, Barnes and Noble for $7.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

10. The Bone Garden by Heather Kassner (2019)

Henry Holt, Cameron Straatsma

In this gorgeous lyrical debut that is perfect for fans of Tangled and The Graveyard Book, Heather Kassner tells the story of Irréelle — a girl made of dust and bone and imagination, with only the finest magical thread tethering her to life. But when she makes an unforgivable mistake, and her cruel creator, Miss Vesper, threatens to imagine her away, Irréelle flees to the underside of the graveyard in defiance of her creator for the very first time.

Get it from Bookshop for $15.63, Barnes and Noble for $16.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

11. The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani (2018)

Penguin, David Beinstein

In 1947, India was split into two countries — India and Pakistan — after being freed from British rule. Tensions stay high between Hindus and Muslims, and hundreds of thousands are killed crossing borders. Nisha is half-Muslim, half-Hindu, and very unsure of where she belongs. But when her father decides it's too dangerous to remain in Pakistan, their family become refugees and journey to a new home — something Nisha chronicles in letters to her late mother.

Get it from Bookshop for $8.27, Barnes and Noble for $8.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

12. The Jumbies by Tracy Baptiste (2015)

Algonquin Young Readers, Via traceybaptiste.com

Corinne isn't afraid of anything, especially not jumbies — after all, they're just made up by parents to frighten their kids. But after chasing an agouti all the way to the forest one night, and meeting a beautiful stranger the next day, she knows something life-changing is about to happen. That stranger, Severine, plans to claim her entire island for the jumbies, and it is up to Corinne to save her home and embrace the magic inside of her.

Get it from Bookshop for $7.31, Barnes and Noble for $7.95, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

13. Midnight Without a Moon by Linda Williams Jackson (2017)

HMH, Via lindajacksonwrites.blogspot.com

Rose Lee Carter lives with her grandparents who work as sharecroppers on a Mississippi plantation in 1955. When Emmett Till is murdered one town over — and his murderers are unjustly acquitted — Rose realizes she wants to be a part of the movement to help change the South. Rose Lee Carter also appears in the sequel, A Sky Full of Stars.

Get it from Bookshop for $7.35, Barnes and Noble for $7.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

14. The Gauntlet by Karuna Riazi (2017)

Salaam Reads, Linda Rosier

After Farah's younger brother gets trapped inside a mechanical board game, she and her friends must journey into the game to rescue him. The Gauntlet of Blood and Sand is more than just a board game, however — it houses the most ancient and dangerous type of magic. The only way out is to win. And winning is difficult when the game cheats.

Get it from Bookshop for $8.27, Barnes and Noble for $8.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

15. I Can Make This Promise by Christine Day (2019)

HarperCollins, Jessica Wood / Via bychristineday.com

After finding a box hidden in her house — full of letters signed, "Love, Edith," and photos of a woman who looks like her — Edie has a flurry of questions. Until now, she's been sure that questions she had about her Native American heritage would go unanswered, since her mother was adopted by a white couple. But now she is determined to discover everything she can about Edith, and if she's connected to the Native family Edie has never known.

Get it from Bookshop for $15.63, Barnes and Noble for $15.49, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

16. The Deep and Dark Blue by Niki Smith (2019)

Hachette, Niki Smith

In this lovely graphic novel, siblings Hawke and Grayson have to flee after a political coup puts them in danger. Adopting new identities as girls Hanna and Grayce, they're able to hide in the Communion of Blue, an order of magical women able to spin the threads of reality to their will. Hawke is determined to return to his old life, and begins hatching a plan to avenge their family and retake their home. But Grayce is unsure, as she begins to realize she wants to stay in a place that allows her to finally live as a girl.

Get it from Bookshop for $11.95, Barnes and Noble for $12.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

17. Ghost Squad by Claribel A. Ortega (2020)

Scholastic, Via claribelortega.com

After accidentally awakening malicious spirts, Lucely and her best friend Syd must join forces with Syd's witch grandmother, Babette, and her cat, Chunk. If they don't reverse the curse, and rid St. Augustine of the malicious spirits, it could be the end of their world as they know it. If you want a little bit of spooky and a little bit of sweet, and a whole lot of cat, you'll fall head over heels for Ghost Squad.

Get it from Bookshop for $16.55, Barnes and Noble for $15.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

18. Mary Underwater by Shannon Doleski (2020)

Abrams, Kim Torres

Mary Murphy has a plan. She's going to build a submarine and pilot it across the Chesapeake Bay. It seems like the only way she can save herself, ever since her violent father came home from prison and the social worker at school is suspicious of her new bruises. The only refuge she has is the model sub she's been making with class clown, Kip, and her heroine Joan of Arc.

Get it from Bookshop for $15.63, Barnes and Noble for $16.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

19. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi (2018)

Rick Riordan Presents, Aman Sharma

Aru Shah has a tendency to stretch the truth in order to fit in, which one day leads to her claiming that the museum where she and her mother live holds a cursed lamp — the Diya of Bharata. When three classmates show up at her doorstep to call her on the lie, they dare her to prove it. But lighting the lamp frees an ancient demon, called the Sleeper, which leaves her classmates and mom frozen in time. To save them, she'll need to find the reincarnations of the five Pandava brothers and journey through the Kingdom of Death.

Get it from Bookshop for $7.35, Barnes and Noble for $7.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

20. Love Sugar Magic: A Dash of Trouble by Anna Meriano (2018)

Walden Pond Press, Via annameriano.com

Leonora Logroño hopes that this year is finally the year she gets to help her family prepare for the annual Dia de los Muertos festival. But her family, who own the most beloved bakery in their town, tell her she is still too young. One day, after sneaking out of school and heading to the bakery, she discovers that her mom, aunt, and older sisters are actually brujas, who put a little bit of magic into everything they bake. Realizing that she also has magical abilities, she decides to test her craft when her friend Caroline has a problem that needs solving. Just one little spell... what could go wrong?

Get it from Bookshop for $7.35, Barnes and Noble for $7.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

21. The Dragon Warrior by Katie Zhao (2019)

Bloomsbury, Via katiezhao.com

After their father disappeared, Faryn Liu and her brother Alex were shunned by the Jade Society, and have trained in secret to honor their family and the gods by becoming warriors. When Faryn helps defeat a demon while running an errand, it turns out she might be a fabled warrior called the Heaven Breaker, destined to command an army of dragons to defeat demons. But she has to prove her worth, and find the island of the immortals — all before the Lunar New Year.

Get it from Bookshop for $15.63, Barnes and Noble for $16.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

22. Dough Boys by Paula Chase (2019)

Greenwillow, Via paulachasehyman.com

Whenever someone asks for a book that's perfect for someone who is reading right on the divide between middle grade and young adult books, I hand them a Paula Chase book. Deontae "Simp" Wright and Roland “Rollie” Matthews are best friends, both currently working as dough boys, playing lookout for their neighborhood's drug operation. Simp wants to get his mom and four younger brothers out of their low-income housing project, and eventually make it into the NBA. Rollie used to love basketball, but his involvement in music means he can see an excuse to stop being a dough boy. But how can he abandon his best friend?

And if you like Dough Boys, Chase's So Done and the upcoming Turning Point are set in the same neighborhood.

Get it from Bookshop for $15.63, Barnes and Noble for $16.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

23. The Last Last-Day-of-Summer by Lamar Giles (2019)

Versify, Adrienne Giles

When a mysterious man arrives in town with a camera that literally freezes time, it's up to local sleuths Otto and Sheed to help save the day. After all, when they dreamed of having a little more time before school started back up, this was not what they meant. And they'll need to work quickly to save thier town, otherwise time might stop for good.

Get it from Bookshop for $15.62, Barnes and Noble for $15.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

24. Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch by Julie Abe (2020)

Little, Brown, Via julieabebooks.com

To earn the rank of Novice Witch, you must pass a test before your 13th birthday, or you lose your magic for good. Eva is determined to pass, but she only has the tiniest bit of magic (seriously, if she overuses her magic, she literally falls asleep). But she is determined to prove that she is worthy, and so she sets up a magical repair shop to help fix the lives of the townspeople in the coastal town of Auteri. If you're a fan of Kiki's Delivery Service, you've found your new obsession!

Get it from Bookshop for $15.63, Barnes and Noble for $16.99, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

25. King and the Dragonflies by Kacen Callender (2020)

Scholastic, Ashley Cain

When Kingston's brother, Khalid, unexpectedly passed away, Kingston is certain he's turned into a dragonfly. As grief transforms his family, King wishes he could talk to his best friend, Sandy, a friendship that Khalid told King to end after overhearing that Sandy thinks he might be gay. When Sandy goes missing, and King finds him, he agrees to help Sandy escape an abusive father — and along the way will confront questions about himself and about Khalid.

Get it from Bookshop for $16.55, Barnes and Noble for $16.49, or from a local independent bookstore through Indiebound here.

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25 Magnificent Middle Grade Books To Share With The Whole Family

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Get ready to immerse yourself in these incredible reads.

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The Best Middle-Grade Chapter Books of 2022

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The Best Middle-Grade Chapter Books of 2022

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The Most Exciting Middle Grade & Chapter Books of 2022 | Brightly

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The Best Middle Grade & Chapter Books of 2022 | Brightly

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From graphic novel enthusiasts to history buffs, there’s something for everyone on our list of 2022’s best chapter books for kids!

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World Book Online (Informational Database)

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World Book Online (Informational Database)

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Username and Password:

Students and teachers should use their Google sign-in to access World Book Online at home this summer.

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13 Books That 9- to 12-Year-Old Boys Say Are Awesome

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13 Books That 9- to 12-Year-Old Boys Say Are Awesome

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Finding the right book is the key to transforming a kid who says they don't like to read into a self-described "reader." I find this to be especially true for boys.

To compile this list, I talked with a wide range of 9- to 12-year-old boys, a mix of avid and reluctant readers. Here are the books the kids raved about because they had the perfect combination of suspense, action, and character drama, plus storylines so engaging they didn't want to put them down.

If they like a heaping of funny with their mystery-adventure:

If they like thought-provoking dramas:

If they like action-packed fantasy with good characters:

If they like timeless adventure tales:

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13 Books That 9- to 12-Year-Old Boys Say Are Awesome | Brightly

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Finding the right book is the key to transforming a kid who says they don't like to read into a self-described "reader." I find this to be especially true for boys. To compile this list, I talked with a wide range of 9- to 12-year-old boys, a mix of avid and reluctant readers.

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Scan and Access Summer Reading Resources

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Scan and Access Summer Reading Resources

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10 Middle Grade Stories Featuring Boys Tweens Can Admire

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10 Middle Grade Stories Featuring Boys Tweens Can Admire

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Today's kid lit features so many rich and varied portrayals of boys being, thinking, or doing all kinds of good things - gloriously large and beautifully small. Here are some boys that young readers, male and female, can celebrate for many reasons.

by Kelly J. Baptist

This is no typical coming-of-age story. Young Isaiah has just become the man of the house, caring for his little sister and grieving mother while mourning the loss of his father. When it all gets to be too much, he turns to his Daddy's journal, filled with stories about the amazing Isaiah Dunn, a superhero who gets his powers from beans and rice. Loyal, dedicated, and caring, Isaiah is no doubt a hero, but it's his unstoppable spirit that gives this story superpowers.

Editor's Note: This piece was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2020.

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10 Middle Grade Stories Featuring Boys Tweens Can Admire | Brightly

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Today's kid lit features so many rich and varied portrayals of boys being, thinking, or doing all kinds of good things - gloriously large and beautifully small. Here are some boys that young readers, male and female, can celebrate for many reasons. by Kelly J. Baptist This is no typical coming-of-age story.