~Elementary Age Books~
Once our children begin to read on their own, we want to promote a sense of independent reading for enjoyment. Oftentimes our boys are much more difficult to engage with a good book. At this stage they may enjoy reading with you each night with the goal in mind of them soon being able to fully read on their own. Getting a child “hooked” on a series can increase their desire to read on their own. Try to find a series they enjoy, read some of it together each night and then encourage them to continue the series independently.
We have linked some of our favorite books and series below.
Judy Blume books
Classics that all elementary students should read or have read to them.
Holes By Louis Sachar
Many readers fall in love with this book and it provides an easy read. There is a movie too!
Wonder by RJ Palacio
A great read or read aloud that your whole family can enjoy! Teaches empathy and understanding. Watch the movie before or after you read! Our students even tend to prefer the book!
Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
A classic story about the love of a dog. Your whole family can enjoy!
Hank Zipzer series by Henry Winkler
Hilarious and easy reads for the most reluctant readers. So funny! I used to start each school year reading these aloud to get my students hooked on the series. The first book is linked and then the series.
Beverly Cleary
Again, true classics that as mamas and educators we don’t think your child should miss! Great to read aloud and give to them independently.
Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
This is a must for a read aloud every year to my fourth and fifth graders. I cry every time! This timeless tale shares the love between a child and a dog.
Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Patterson
Sad book alert! But this is a good one for your older elementary readers. There is a movie too!
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
A great read aloud. I read to my fifth graders every year!
Who Was series
We will always love these books! They hook kids in. They are short and very high interest. Here is a link to a set and some individual titles.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
A hilarious read! We remember our mom reading this to us!
Amelia Bedelia books by Peggy Parish
Hilarious books that lead to many discussions about taking things literally. Amelia Bedelia gets into all kinds of trouble….not on purpose! Enjoy reading with your child and he or she can read independently.
Andrew Clements’ books
These books are excellent for independent reading in elementary school.
Harry Potter books
Many students fall head over heels for this series. Try it out! Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is the first title. If you like the series #1-7 is linked as well.
Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne
A great beginner series that often lasts students through 3rd and 4th grade. Get them interested and comfortable reading independently.
The first book to try it out is linked first and then some sets of the series.
Mercy Watson series by Kate DiCamillo
Such a great series! High interest and a great author to learn about and read more of her options!
Junie B. Jones series by Barbara Park
A hilarious series to jump into for beginners! Junie B. Jones is a little bit sassy and a little bit fun! Follow along with Junie B. Jones on her crazy adventures as she learns all kinds of lessons. This series allows you to ask your child all kinds of questions- Would you do that? What should she have done? Was that kind or was she being too silly?
Or if you just want to start with the first book to see if you like!
Fly Guy series by Tedd Arnold
These books are great for beginning readers especially for those boys who do NOT want to read! A few single titles and a set are linked. We also linked a phonics set for those who are learning to read.
Escape this Book: Tombs of Egypt by Bill Doyle
Readers have the chance to escape- a fun, engaging read!
Smile by Raina Telgemeir
This author has several other titles to enjoy as well. They provide light, easy reading!
Rick Riordan Series- An adventure series and we’ve listed a few options with links:
