Best book series for 2nd grade boy: Best book series for 2nd graders — ever
31 BEST Chapter Books for Second Graders
Choosing chapter books for second graders can be a daunting task. At this age, it’s probably the first chapter book they’ve ever read, which makes it feel even more daunting.
But it doesn’t have to feel like a chore selecting that first chapter book for second grade kids. There are a ton of really great books for 2nd graders out there that kids absolutely love.
If you’re struggling to pick that perfect 2nd grade chapter book, don’t worry, because I have picked out the best of the best.
31 of the BEST Chapter Books for 2nd Graders
So without further ado, here are the best chapter books for 2nd graders, whether it’s their first book or their fifth, these chapter books have been written for 6-8-year-olds, perfect for 2nd-grade kids.
1.
Magic Tree House Series – Mary Pope Osborne
The New York Times number one bestselling early chapter book series for 2nd graders is the Magic Tree House. The series is filled with magic, mystery, and loads of adventure.
Jack and Annie’s lives are ordinary until they chance upon a magical tree house. The treehouse allows them to travel back in time into a world full of haunted castles, treasure chests, secret maps and solve mysteries. They also get a glimpse into Elizabethian England and the historic American Revolution.
Will they be able to return home in time or will they have to fight the dinosaurs?
These beautifully illustrated novels paired with simple words make it the best first chapter book for second graders.
It’s been a beloved favorite of children for over 25 years, and no doubt this chapter book series will instill a lifelong love for reading in your child.
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2.
The Flat Stanley Collection – Jeff Brown
What Jeff Brown narrated as a bedtime story to his sons is now a famous book worldwide.
Stanley Lambchop was an ordinary boy until one night a bulletin board fell on him and made him flat forever. Despite being only half an inch thick but Stanley has had some amazing, silly, and fun-filled adventures all over the world.
Be it sliding through the door-slit or mailing himself across the country in a tiny envelope or be it jetting off into an invisible space to rescue aliens, is there anything that Stanley can’t do?
A delightful read with black and white illustrations for 5 to 8-year-olds.
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3.
The Invisible String – Patrice Karst
With half a million copies sold worldwide, The Invisible String holds a special place in the hearts of parents, educators, and children of course!
With heart-warming cute pictures, it simplifies various mental health issues like anxiety, grief, separation in a very child-friendly manner.
It is a story of a mother who tells her kids that we are all bound by an invisible string called Love which cannot be seen but can only be felt.
The book tells how love can conquer everything and it also beautifully addresses deeper and more difficult conversations which kids can easily relate to but feel difficult to speak about. This is a heartfelt chapter book full of love for your little one!
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4.
Dog Man: Grime And Punishment – Dav Pilkey
The ninth graphic novel of the series from Dog Man series, from worldwide bestselling author Dav Pilkey, is Dog Man Grime and Punishment. Dogman loves to solve mysteries, and your 2nd graders will love solving mysteries with him.
Will his dog pack help him tackle it or will he have to face it alone?
Set against a backdrop of kindness, empathy, and good deeds, Dog Man is filled with hilarious moments which will have your child rolling with laughter. Some moments celebrate friendship and the victory of good over evil.
An interactive, colourful and emotional graphic novel penned creatively into comic strips, which is read and re-read by kids and parents all over the world.
This is the ideal first chapter book for second graders because it has a lot of pictures to keep them engaged.
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5.
The Never Girls Collection (Disney Fairies) – Kiki Thorpe
A story of four best friends who meet a fairy, and by accident are whisked to Neverland in the blink of an eye.
A cute adaptation of the fairytale world filled with magical adventures in the forest, this book is an absolute favourite with kids, and especially 2nd grade girls.
A wonderful gift for readers between the age of 6-8 years old, packed in an attractive box, this will keep them immersed in a world of dreams, fairies, and loads of magical moments as they get lost in these beautiful books for hours.
With a bit of a resemblance to the ‘Peter Pan ‘ series, this will surely be a hit for your second-grade child.
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6.
The Danger Gang – Tom Fletcher
Written by UK’s most popular children’s book author, Tom Fletcher, The Danger Gang is the story of Franky who is moving out of his town, leaving his best friend Dani behind.
One night a scary storm, a strange green light, and a powerful thunder changed his life forever.
All his friends change as well, becoming a bit odd and gaining magical powers. Franky is excited with his new avatar as it resembles his hero Super Spy, Zack Danger, but what lies ahead?
With well-written characters and a gripping plot, this makes The Danger Gang an enjoyable read not just for the kids but for the entire family as well.
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7.
The Diary Of A Wimpy Kid – Jeff Kinney
Written by #1 New York Times bestselling author Jeff Kinney, this book needs no introduction.
Said to be a ‘Novel in Cartoons’ and a part of extra-curricular reading, this is based on the adventures of an imaginary character, Greg Heffley, an avid video-game lover, who is forced into writing a diary by his mother.
His journal illustrates his daily life, school stories, adventures on his vacations and so much more, which makes it relatable to every kid who reads it.
Every character in this book, from Greg, his mom, and even his not-so-loved dog, is beautifully written and has turned millions of kids into avid readers.
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8.
Gangsta Granny – David Walliams
A bestseller from the critically acclaimed author David Walliams, this is the story of Ben who is dropped at his granny’s place every Friday as his parents go to watch a ballet.
He finds her to be incredibly boring as she only plays scrabble and makes dishes with cabbage, which Ben isn’t fond of.
What Ben doesn’t know is that his granny was once an international thief and has been plotting all her life to steal the crown jewels with Ben’s help. But will they succeed?
A suspenseful and hilarious book with a bittersweet ending that is worth adding to your child’s book collection.
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9.
Fancy Nancy Series – Jane O’Connor
A beautiful children’s picture book series based on the life of Nancy, a young girl with a larger-than-life persona who loves dressing up and likes all her things to be stylish.
She isn’t too pleased with how ordinary her family is, so she hosts a class on ‘The Art of Fanciness’ for them to which they oblige.
Filled with pleasing pastel artwork, detailed illustrations, and a variety of new words, this series will help your second-grade child learn valuable life lessons from the protagonist.
A beautiful gifting option that will help enrich your child’s vocabulary in the process of enjoying this wonderfully written series.
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10.
Diary Of An Ice Princess: Snow Place Like Home – Christina Soontornvat
Princess Lina hails from a magical family and stays in an enchanting palace in the clouds.
She has the power to fly and her bedroom can magically transform into a real-life snow globe.
But all Princess Lina wants is a normal non-magical life in a non-magical school with her best friend Claudia. But will she be able to keep the secret of her icy life from others?
A visual delight, this awesome book is filled with values like the importance of friendship, love, and dealing with pressure from the family. A magical read for your kid!
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11.
Stink: The Super Incredible Shrinking Kid – Megan Mcdonald
Brother of the popular character, Judy Moody, Stink is a short boy and continues to shrink each day. He measures himself daily only to realize there isn’t much that he can do about it and will only have to wait till he is older to become tall again.
A must-read for comic book fans, the child-savvy humour brings Stink’s story to life.
It perfectly captures the love between the two siblings with playful language and simple illustrations that will surely keep your child engrossed in this book for hours together.
A simple and funny book with good life lessons. If you’re looking for similar chapter books for 2nd graders, check out the Judy Moody was in a Mood series, too!
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12.
Yasmin Series – Saadia Faruqi
A colourful, inspiring, and wonderfully written series based on the life of a young girl, Yasmin, who describes incidents from her day-to-day life.
In one book she is stuck on an idea for her school project until recess time when she suddenly gets inspired and comes up with a new idea of the various roles she plays, such as a Teacher, a Chef, and many more.
What’s important is the way she deals with all her problems in her life creatively and cleverly, without ever giving up hope.
This series will surely bring a smile to your child’s face! It comes with a craft suggestion at the end of the book which is an added bonus.
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13.
A Bear Called Paddington – Michael Bond
Meet Paddington! Our friendly bear wearing an old hat, a battered coat, and carrying a suitcase with a jar of marmalade. He is polite, kind-hearted but often innocently finds himself getting into trouble.
Found at the Paddington station and adopted by the Brown family, he has been receiving love from many generations across the world for his cute and funny adventures.
This bear will teach your child some of the most beautiful life lessons in an engaging way.
A delightful jolly ride of this loveable accident-prone bear is sure to make you and your child laugh out loud. This is not only a great introductory chapter book for second graders, but a novel that will stay in the family for generations.
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14.
The Zack Files – Dan Greenburg
The Zack Files is a humorous series based on the life of a ten-year-old who encounters paranormal problems.
Zack always manages to get into some trouble in the course of his adventures, but his best friends somehow manage to get him out of it in some way or the other.
Be it when Zack’s Grandpa had reincarnated into a cat or the time when he shared a room with a ghost, all these funny and silly misadventures are sure to tickle the funny bone of your little one!
A big hit with kids aged 7 and above.
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15.
Stuart Little – E.B. White
A famous and worldwide bestseller, E.B. White’s ‘Stuart Little’ is based on the life of a tiny, smart, kind, and extremely brave mouse who loves adventures.
He lives in New York with his parents, elder brother, and a cat named Snowbell.
He loves his family and goes to great lengths to help them. He jumps down a drain to find his mom’s lost ring and crawls down a piano to fix the piano keys before his brother’s piano concert.
He befriends a cute bird named Margalo, but once she disappears suddenly, Stuart steps out of his house for the first time to find her. But what happens next?
A wonderful book worth buying for your young second-grade reader.
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16.
Martin Luther King Jr. (Little People Big Dreams) – Maria Isabel Sanchez V
A worldwide bestseller from the critically acclaimed author, this book chronicles the life of an inspiring minister and an activist for civil rights, Martin Luther King Jr.
An empowering series that highlights the importance of not tolerating injustice and fighting for what is right.
They say ‘A pen is mightier than the sword’ and he proved that. A real-life hero whose stories will greatly inspire your children. Important life lessons written in lucid language make this book worth adding to your child’s book collection.
It has some extra facts and a biographical timeline at the end of the book, which makes it very interesting to read.
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17.
Ivy And Bean – Annie Barrows
A fabulous book for young readers from Grade 1 to 4, Ivy and Bean is a story of two friends who are complete opposites.
Bean finds Ivy to be boring, but one fine day Bean rescues her from trouble and things take a U-turn. They both become the best of friends.
The book is filled with a plethora of new words which will enrich your child’s vocabulary and also some important lessons based on friendship, love, and empathy.
Some incidents make them incredibly happy and at the same time, they make some mistakes only to learn from them later. This book beautifully celebrates the joy of friendship.
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18.
Frog And Toad Are Friends – Arnold Lobel
Frog and Toad are friends is a chapter book series of five adventurous tales of the friendship of a frog and a toad, written in simple language for those beginning chapter books.
The frog is cheerful and likes to relax and enjoy life, whereas the toad is a bit uptight, but they love going together for a swim, fly kites, and writing letters to each other.
They set a great example of friendship and loyalty by supporting each other through thick and thin times perfectly describing ‘A friend in need is a friend indeed’.
Wonderfully illustrated, this chapter book series is filled with heartwarming stories and is sure to make your 2nd grade child fall in love with reading from an early age.
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19.
Hi! Fly Guy – Tedd Arnold
Imaginative and creatively written, this is a story of a boy named Buzz who has an unusual pet. A fly!
It is a hilarious novel showing their friendship and adventures through silly drawings. The fly accompanies Buzz wherever he goes, be it his school, garden as well as on his vacations.
There is never a dull moment when they are together and they have a sweet world of their own with its ups and downs.
A very simple and entertaining book that will help your little one experience the simple joy of reading from a young age.
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20.
Katie Woo And Friends – Fran Manushkin
Katie Woo and Friends is an award-winning series for 2nd graders. Just like other kids, Katie Woo has two best friends JoJo and Pedro, and the trio love going on adventures together, such as camping, losing a tooth, and even saying goodbye to their dog together.
A well-written story with simple characters that emphasizes the importance of true friendship and comradery.
The best part is that each chapter has a story of its own story, which makes it a favorite among young readers with short attention spans.
A pleasant and riveting read filled with lessons on empathy, forgiveness, and sharing that children can easily connect with.
This book would be a great addition to your child’s reading list.
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21.
Kay’s Marvellous Medicines: A Gross And Gruesome History Of The Human Body – Adam Kay, Jan Ravens Et Al
A hilarious read from bestselling authors, this book is filled with funny and informative facts about the human body with references to ancient history seasoned with loads of humor.
It takes you back to an era where doctors would experiment over the human body. Medicine meets history in this hilarious book and it mentions funny facts like why ancient Egyptians felt that the brain was a useless load to why hairdressers chopped off their customer’s legs, which will leave your child amazed and laughing.
Though gruesome in some places, it makes the complexity of the human body approachable and will develop a liking for science in your little one and keep him or her engrossed for hours!
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22.
You Are An Amazing Girl: A Collection Of Inspiring Stories Of Courage, Friendship, Inner Strength And Self-Confidence – Nadia Ross
An encouraging and uplifting book especially for young girls, designed to help them realise how unique they are and that nobody is perfect.
To believe in their dreams and never give up in the toughest of situations. It tells how one should respect and love their parents and beautifully teaches them life lessons about confidence, self-esteem, and self-love.
Written in the form of ten short stories, it will encourage your little one to read the book by herself.
The protagonist deals with many situations in her daily life and the reader will surely relate to them. Absolutely recommended for all the little girls and it is also a great gifting option.
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23.
Henry and Mudge – Cynthia Rylant
Henry and Mudge are best friends.
Henry is a young boy who was feeling lonely when the other children on the street wouldn’t play with him. But he finds companionship in a lovable big dog named Mudge.
The books in this series are warm-hearted and funny, and written in simple vocabulary and accompanied by delightful illustrations, which make them the perfect first chapter books for children.
Another popular book by Cynthia Rylant is In Aunt Lucy’s Kitchen, the first book in the series, Cobble Street Cousins.
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24.
Mercy Watson Series – Kate Dicamillo
Another beloved chapter books for 2nd graders series is the Mercy Watson series by Kate Dicamillo.
Mercy Watson is a pig who loves a rollicking good time. Whether she’s foiling a robber or squeezing into a tutu, there’s no telling what adventures she will get into.
Mercy Watson has been a beloved favorite for second grade children for decades and her adventures will have your child laughing and eager to read the next book.
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25.
Cam Jansen Series – David A. Adler
The Cam Jansen series are some of the most popular chapter books for 2nd grade children of all time.
Cam Jansen loves a mystery, and with her amazing photographic memory, she’s great at solving them. The first novel of this series follows Cam as she helps to catch a diamond thief. With the help of her best friend Eric, Cam and Eric help the police find the robber after they witness them arrest the wrong person.
The Cam Jansen books are perfect for first time chapter book readers. Cam is a lovable young heroine who has been a favorite children’s hero for over two decades.
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26.
Junie B Jones Series – Barbara Park
The Junie B Jones series follows the world’s most hilarious kindergartener as she starts school for the very first time.
This #1 New York Times bestselling chapter book series has sold over 65 million copies worldwide and has been helping children transition to chapter books for more than 25 years.
Follow Junie’s hilarious classroom antics, go on adventures, and follow the hilarious goings-on in her kindergarten class.
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27.
Nate the Great – Marjorie W. Sharmat, Mitchell Sharmat, Craig Sharmat
Nate the Great is the world’s greatest detective. In the first novel of the series, he is tasked with solving the mystery of the lost picture!
Targeted at beginner chapter book readers, this series will instill a love of reading as your child learns to problem solve along with Nate.
Nate also teaches problem-solving by using logical thinking.
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28.
Gooney Bird Greene – Lois Lowry
When Gooney Bird Greene turns up at Watertower Elementary School, she’s shocked everyone with her unique style and unusual lunches.
This second grader is quirky but in all the good ways, and that suits Gooney Bird just fine. She also has lots of “true” stories to tell!
From the highly acclaimed author of The Giver, Lois Lowry brings us a heartwarming series that makes for the perfect chapter book for second graders.
Not only because of the language, writing style, and illustrations but because the main character is a second-grade kid, too.
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29.
Amelia Bedelia – Peggy Parish
Amelia Bedelia is a hilarious chapter book by Peggy Parish. The stories follow a young girl, Amelia, who does exactly what Mr and Mrs Rogers tell her not to do.
Sometimes she gets things mixed up, and does everything wrong, but it always turns out alright in the end.
Amelia Bedelia has been a lovable beginner chapter book series for children in the second grade for decades, and is sure to be loved for more decades to come.
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30.
Diary of an Ice Princess Series – Christina Soontornvat
The Diary of an Ice Princess is a collection of chapter books written for 2nd-grade reading level.
Each book in the series is a fun-filled story following Princess Lina. She has the princess life that all little girls dream of.
She lives in a palace in the clouds, and everyone in her family can control the weather. She can even fly!
Princess Lina enjoys turning lemons into lemon ice, riding the wind, and turning her bedroom into a snow globe.
But Princess Lina wants to go to a regular school for non-magic people with her best friend, Claudia. She promises not to reveal her magic…but can she?
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31.
Rainbow Magic – Orchard Books
The Rainbow Magic series is the perfect chapter book series for 2nd grade girls looking for a fairy adventure to get lost in.
The first book follows Kirsty and Rachel who are having a greatl time at the Fairytale Festival. But there’s a problem; the evil Jack Frost has stolen the magical objects from the Fairytale Fairies’, and now the Fairytale characters are trapped in the human world!
It’s up to Rachel and Kirsty to find them and restore magic to fairytales everywhere.
The Rainbow Magic series are all based on well-known and beloved fairytales, from sleeping beauty to Cinderella to The Little Mermaid.
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Final Word on Best Chapter Books for Second Graders
So there you have it, our top 31 chapter books for 2nd graders, suitable for both boys and girls, from ages 6-8.
These beginner novels will be the perfect starter book for your child that will help them fall in love with reading and develop an interest in new stories.
Of course, there are so many 2nd grade chapter books that couldn’t make it on our list. Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments.
Disclaimer: This website uses affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through a link at no extra cost to you.
Favorite Chapter Books & Series
In about the second grade, kids typically are ready to start reading chapter books themselves. Today, I’m sharing our favorite chapter books for young readers (around 2nd and 3rd grade). Some of these are my favorite chapter books from childhood, some are ones I used often as a reading tutor, and others are ones we’ve discovered and enjoyed in our home. Some fit all three categories. 🙂
In this book list, you will find fiction chapter books. If you are looking for nonfiction texts, you may want to check out my Nonfiction Books Series, where I’ve included a few chapter books. If you have older readers, visit our Favorite Chapter Books for 4th and 5th grades.
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Benefits of Using Chapter Books Series
Have you ever found an author you just love? You love the author’s writing style and amazing story lines? His or her books just draw you in. That’s what we also want for kids. All kids benefit from book series, but especially struggling readers. Why? I think there are two main reasons:
1. When kids are familiar with the author’s style, the author’s organization, and the characters, it makes frees the mind of the struggling reader to focus on comprehension of the text.
2. Struggling readers often times become reluctant or even resistant readers. This happens primarily because they are asked to read texts that are too difficult for them; or we ask them to read books that are of no interest to them (hence the need for “just right” books.) Interest is a huge motivator for any learner. HUGE. Did I mention huge? And when struggling readers, who are accustomed to reading texts of no interest or that are too difficult for them, hook into a series of high interest AND on their reading level, it is a BIG DEAL.
I seriously celebrate with the reader when this happens.
Favorite Chapter Books & Series for 2nd & 3rd grades
Henry and Mudge is a great place to start with early chapter books. As a matter of fact, some readers may be ready for them in the 1st grade. The lovable characters of Henry and Mudge combined with their adventures is a great combination.
Frog and Toad books are another great resource for kids in late 1st grade, early 2nd grade. I wouldn’t necessarily call them “chapter books” in the true sense because each “chapter” is a different story. Kids do enjoy the charming stories of Frog and Toad.
Fox books by James Marshall fit right in there with Frog and Toad books as not always being true “chapter books”, but kids still do enjoy these at an early age.
Just like you have Henry and Mudge, you also have Mr. Putter & Tabby.
Another perfect chapter book series for kids who are ready for them. Note that 1st graders may also be ready for this series.
The Cam Jansen series is the perfect introduction to mysteries. Cam (“The Camera”) has a photographic mind and uses it to solve crimes and problems. I personally love that the characters are in the 5th grade, yet the text in on a 2nd grade level. Because of this, older struggling readers tend to be more accepting of reading these texts. For readers who aren’t ready to read the Cam Jansen series, there’s also a Young Cam Jansen series.
The Magic Tree House series is one of those well-known favorites for many kids. Around the middle of 2nd grade, kids are typically ready to read them with independence. I started reading them aloud to my kids when they were in Kindergarten. You will want to read these in order, especially at first, as it takes a few books before all the important characters are fully explained.
The chapters are well written and created little cliff hangers so kids with WANT to keep reading.
The Ivy + Bean books are a great series about two best friends who team up together and solve problems and accomplish great things together. Is there anything Ivy and Bean can’t do? Obviously, girls would probably be most drawn to this series.
Encyclopedia Brown has been around for quite a few years. I remember reading a few as a child. I think that mysteries are such a fantastic way to get kids thinking and problem solving as they work alongside Encyclopedia Brown to solve the mysteries.
June B. Jones is such a hilariously funny character that you can’t help but fall in love with. No matter where I’ve read her texts, I’m always greeted with, “Read more. Don’t stop.” She does use words like hate and stupid, but I typically skip over those when reading aloud to younger students. Many kids can relate to the way she words things and the trouble she gets in.
If you were a fan of Nancy Drew when you were younger, you may just want to try Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew. Carolyn Keene has come back with a newer version, with many of the same characters that your kids are sure to be drawn to as they solve mysteries together.
My 3rd grade son is in the middle of an A to Z Mysteries book right now. Follow the three main characters as they solve mysteries. Are you seeing a pattern here with all these mysteries? Mysteries are a GREAT way to help kids see how fiction stories are constructed (a.k.a. text structure.)
I would say that Freddy is kind of like the male version of Junie B. Jones. Kids will relate to this lighthearted and fun character who is always getting himself in trouble and saying things he wished he hadn’t said.
The Judy Moody books are the perfect step up from the Junie B. Jones books. Judy Moody books have a great story line, are engaging, and funny.
I think it is important, however, to make sure kids understand that just because Judy Moody behaves a certain way or talks to her family in a disrespectful way at times, that doesn’t make it okay for our kids to do this.
Stink is the shortest kid that ever lived, at least he feels like it, especially with all the teasing his older sister, Judy Moody, does to him. But Stink is a character kids will LOVE. Kids will also love the illustrations with extras, like comic strips, tucked into these books. If your kids like Stink and Freddy books, they may also like these chapter book series: George Brown, Captain Awesome, Roscoe Riley, & Galaxy Zack.
As if the original Amelia Bedelia books aren’t enough humor for you, here she comes Amelia Bedelia in chapter book form, bringing all her idioms, puns and word play with her!
More Reading Resources
- Reading Resources for Older Readers {Pinterest Board}
- Struggling Readers {Pinterest Board}
Favorite Chapter Books for 4th & 5th Grades
See all our favorites books in this series.
~Becky
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WHAT TO READ FOR CHILDREN 5-7 YEARS OLD – CHEST OF CHILDREN’S BOOKS
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In the US, your child is already in school and is gradually turning from a listener into an independent reader who speaks at least two languages. Now your children’s library will become even larger. Here there is a place for books both in Russian and in English, and for independent reading. There are much more books suitable for this age than there is time to read them, and the age limits here are no longer very clear, if you don’t like some of the books recommended for this age, then put it aside for a while, you might like it in a year. nine0003
By the age of 6-7, your young listener may have their favorite writers and genre preferences.
It is important for some of the children that the hero of the book be of the same gender, someone can listen to quite adult and scary stories, and someone will still be creepy just at the mention of an evil wizard. The recommendations of books by age are just a guideline of what you can try to read during this period. It is perfectly normal if some books are too difficult or scary for your child, and some are simply uninteresting. Do not forget that graphic novels, in other words comics, are also books, especially when it comes to the first independent reading. The more pictures in the book and the less text, the psychologically easier it is for the child to read such a book on their own. Before a continuous page of text in small print, even a young reader can be scared. And be sure to take the kids to bookstores, book fairs, and libraries, and let them choose any book they like. nine0003
However, most of the bookshelf of a 5-7 year old child will still be occupied by books that you choose and read aloud.
What to offer to read to a child of 5-7 years old?
- V. Dragunsky “Deniska’s stories”
- N. Nosov “Live Hat”, “Dreamers”
- A. Gaidar “Chuk and Gek”
- S. Prokofiev “The Amazing Adventures of a Boy Without a Shadow and a Shadow without a Boy”, “The Adventures of the Yellow Suitcase”. nine0013
All these books are united by one common theme – the adventures of mischievous and not always obedient boys, in which children easily recognize themselves. Books by Dragunsky, Nosov, Gaidar and Prokofieva are classics of Russian-language children’s literature for preschoolers and younger schoolchildren.
- E. Uspensky “Down the magic river”
- A. Pogorelsky “Black hen, or underground inhabitants”
Two more books by Russian writers that your child at this age might enjoy. “Down the Magic River” brings together almost all the fairy-tale characters of Russian folk tales in a new and exciting plot.
And written almost 200 years ago, “The Black Hen” has long become a classic of Russian children’s literature. This is a fairy tale with a very deep moral meaning. nine0003
- E. T. V. Hoffman “The Nutcracker”
- G. H. Anderson “The Snow Queen”
It’s hard to imagine Christmas and New Year without Hoffmann and Anderson’s fairy tales, if you haven’t read them to your children yet, now is the time. You just need to choose editions with illustrations that will suit your taste.
- S. Marshak “12 months”
A wonderful New Year’s fairy tale with deep meaning. A story that can be read by roles if your child already reads well and confidently in Russian. nine0003
- A. Volkov “The Wizard of the Emerald City”
This fairy tale is one of the favorite books of children for several generations in a row. Children will go on an amazing journey together with the heroes of a fairy tale that tells about friendship, courage, kindness, resourcefulness and purposefulness.
- Astrid Lindgren “The Adventures of Emil from Löneberg”, “We are all from Bullerby”
Your child may already be familiar with the work of Astrid Lindgren, for example, with the book “Carson who lives on the roof”, but in addition to the story that we all know well from childhood, Lindgren has many more wonderful children’s books. Emil is a prankster and inventor who will not leave any reader indifferent, because one can laugh endlessly at his antics. And the story of the children from Bullerby will surely become one of your favorite books on your shelf, its characters are so similar to any boy and girl of 5-8 years old. nine0003
- A.K. Vestley “Shchepkin and the Tricky Girls”, “Shchepkin and the Red Bicycle”, “Schepkin’s Dangerous Journey”, “Ole Alexander Tilibom Bom Bom”, Ole Alexander’s First Flight”, “Ole Alexander Moves”
If you have already read “Dad, Mom, Grandmother, 8 Children and a Truck” and you liked this book, then you should read other books in this series, and also pay attention to 2 more series of Westley’s books: about Ole-Alexander and the Kid and Shchepkin.
All the same cozy and unhurried stories from the life of children and their parents. Here is the move and the first plane trip and vacation trips, the appearance of a younger brother and new friends, all those events that the life of children of this age is full of. nine0003
- Eno Rad “Clutch, Half Shoes and Moss Beard”
The story-tale of the Estonian writer E. Rad tells about the adventures of three druze naksitralli. Naxitralli are small men, similar to gnomes, no more than half a meter tall. Due to their small stature, naxitralls are sometimes mistaken for gnomes by other characters in the book. But, unlike traditional gnomes, Muff and Halfboot don’t wear facial hair, but Mossbeard’s beard is made from natural moss. Naxitralli lead a completely human lifestyle. They eat ordinary food, use vehicles, go shopping, cafes, go on picnics in the forest and get into various adventures and troubles. nine0003
- E. Rakitina “Seryozhik”
A real childish thriller! There are incredible adventures, fairy-tale characters, and unexpected plot twists.
Hedgehog Seryozhik, a preschooler who is very worried that he is not yet old enough to go to school, wakes up one morning and does not find his mother, whose disappearance is to blame … the dragon! The brave hedgehog sets off in search of his mother, to meet adventures and dangers.
- Jan Ekholm “Tutta Carlson the First and Only, Ludwig the Fourteenth and others”
The Swedes have a talent for writing books for children. Ekholm is another confirmation of this. The incredible story of friendship between a fox cub and a chicken turns into a whole series of adventures for all the characters in the book, because it’s unheard of for a fox cub not to be able to cheat and deceive, it also got along with chickens!
- Selma Lagerlöf “Niels’ Wonderful Journey with the Wild Geese”
Another book by the Swedish writer. Once a schoolboy Niels turns into a tiny man, and on the back of his mother’s favorite goose Martin, he goes on a journey with a flock of wild geese.
Having been in different parts of Sweden, having got into a single scrape and adventure, Niels returns home a completely different boy, kind and sympathetic, appreciating friendship and loved ones. nine0003
- Ruse Lagercrantz series about the girl Dunne
- Abby Hanlon book series Dorrie Fantazerka
Two series of books by contemporary authors, the main characters of which are girls aged 6-7. These books are great for self-reading as well as reading aloud. If the series about Dorry is first of all very funny stories, then the series about Dune speaks more about children’s feelings and emotions. Relationships with friends, siblings, troubles at school, fears and stupid tricks – these books are very close to children aged 5-7 years, as they are about them and written in their language. nine0003
- L. Pearson Hilda comic series
Comics can be a great bridge to independent reading.
This comic book series follows the adventures of Hilda, a Scandinavian girl who befriends gnomes, trolls, and other strange creatures. Hilda lives with her mother and her pet Twig, a tame fox with horns. Luke Pearson created a unique world in comics, inhabited by strange creatures from Norse mythology.
- Cece Bell “SuperEar”
Another great comic for younger students. Everything that is relevant to a child at this age is collected here in one book: teachers and lessons, classmates and friends, school days and extracurricular activities, music, creativity and first love! Young readers will laugh heartily at the funny and sometimes stupid situations that the main character finds herself in. The book is read in one breath!
top 10 rating according to KP
Children’s literature is a special world. The most incredible stories happen here, amazing meetings and travels take place. We make a lot of demands on a children’s book.
It must be paper, bright, beautiful and capture from the very first pages! Years go by, and to the classic works of Marshak, Barto, Mikhalkov, Nosov, no less wonderful works by contemporary writers are added.
Oksana STASHENKO
theater and film actress, Honored Artist of the Russian Federation
— The first books I remember are little books. My mother bought them for me, a one and a half year old girl, walking past a bookstore from work. Then they cost two, three, five kopecks. It was 1967-1968. “Gray neck”, “About the dog Paw” – I still remember what they looked like! Every evening my mother, putting me to bed, read books. Very quickly I learned all the poems and fairy tales by heart. At the age of 4, without studying letters, she began to read herself. We walked down the street and I began to read the signs.
I was very fond of Dragunsky “Deniska’s stories”. By the way, when I went to enter the Saratov Theater School after the eighth grade, I read just one of the stories – “From Above, Down, Obliquely”.
And they accepted me! nine0003
The CP poster will tell you what you should definitely read to your heirs. We have compiled a rating of the best books for children according to the KP version, which includes both works familiar from Soviet times and novels by new talented authors. And parents and psychologists shared with us their lists of literature for children and adolescents. Tell us about your favorite children’s books in the comments.
1.
“Deniska’s stories”
nine0002 Author: Viktor Dragunsky
Plot: In these short stories, every schoolboy recognizes himself. The stories published in 1959 are still being read with a bang! And in 2012 they were included in the list of “100 books for schoolchildren.”
The main character of the stories is a boy Denis Korablev. He, like all boys, loves to play pranks, learn new things and experience everything.
And Denis is one of those who learn not from the mistakes of others, but from their own. He pours semolina out of the window, naively thinking that no one will know about it, inadvertently becomes a “decoy” in the circus and flies under the dome, comes up with incredible reasons for being late to school, from time to time does not study his lessons and gets into oh-oh- very awkward situations. Children, reading this book, will laugh heartily with their parents, and at the same time unobtrusively wrap morality around their ears about how important it is to obey and learn lessons. nine0003
2.
The Amazing Journey of Edward Rabbit
Author: Keith DiCamillo
Plot: This work will not leave any reader indifferent. It is about how a cold porcelain rabbit acquires the ability to love and compassion. Once, grandmother Pelegrina gave her granddaughter Abelin a luxurious birthday present – a dapper porcelain rabbit.
Abelin loved him, but he did not reciprocate her love. He didn’t care. It seemed as if he had no heart. And can a porcelain doll have it? nine0003
One day, Edward accidentally fell over the side of the ship and ended up in the depths of the sea. It was caught by an old fisherman. There was no trace of Edward’s former gloss. But it turned out that in order to be loved, you don’t have to be beautiful at all! The fisherman brought the rabbit home to his wife. Later, Edward began to fall into all sorts of hands – good and bad. Each such meeting seemed to add something good to the soul of the rabbit. Of course, a miracle happened: he learned to endure, love and feel losses…0013
Author: Paula Wallace
A beautiful, engaging book, and an excellent guide for adults and children on how to behave in certain situations. By the way, the amazingly tender illustrations in the book are also the work of the writer Paula Wallace.
… Mr. Reginald is a well-mannered and sedate rabbit. He works as a school principal and loves his students very much. But even Reginald is not averse to taking a break from mischievous people during the holidays. However, here, like snow on their heads, nephews fall down to visit – three little rabbits who sweep and eat everything in their path. However, do not think that they are only capable of destroying. When trouble happens to the uncle’s neighbor, they are the first to come to the rescue. nine0003
4.
Adventures of Dunno and his friends
Author: Nikolai Nosov
Plot: Shorties live in the Flower City – little people-babies and babies. Among this people Dunno stands out, for whom, because of his frivolity, everything goes topsy-turvy. If he undertakes to compose poetry, it turns out to be rubbish. Draws portraits – those whom he captured are mortally offended .
..
One day, Znayka invents a balloon on which the kids go on a trip. The ball crashes and the travelers, almost dying, end up in the Green City, where Dunno and his comrades are in for real adventures – they find themselves in the hands of the strict doctor Medunitsa.
5.
Wizard of Oz
Author: Alexander Volkov
Plot: The total circulation of books written by Alexander Melentievich exceeded 25 million copies! In Soviet times, to get a book from the series “The Wizard of the Emerald City”, you had to stand in line. Then a postcard came, and the children ran to the library to borrow this wonderful story for 10 days. nine0003
…A terrible hurricane takes the house of a girl from Kansas, Ellie, to an unknown country. There she, along with her faithful dog Totoshka, meets the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman and the Lion. Together they go to the wizard of the Emerald City, who is able to fulfill any desire.
Ellie wants to go back to Kansas, Scarecrow gets brains, Lion gets courage, and Tin Woodman gets a heart. All wishes will come true if friends fulfill very difficult conditions.
6.
“Where is Santa? Around the world”
Author: Louis Shih
Plot: The main winter magician and his wife, after the merry holidays, go on a well-deserved vacation – on a round-the-world trip on a snow-white ship. But even on vacation, Santa does not stop working! He checks the lists of obedient and naughty children, thinks about what he will give them next Christmas.
Nasty Nat is also on the ship, extremely dissatisfied with her gift. She dreams of stealing Santa’s list of good kids and putting her name on it. nine0003
7.
In Search of the Wolf
Author: Sandra DIECKMANN
Plot: A beautiful book with deep philosophical overtones: loved ones are always there, even if now there is no way to hug them.
Bosom friends Chanterelle and Wolf spend every day together: walking in the forest, playing, sharing stories and admiring the starry sky. But one day the Wolf disappears, and the Chanterelle is left alone. She is trying to figure out where her true friend has gone and find him. nine0003
A beautiful book with unusual illustrations by Sandra Dieckmann that take up the entire surface of the page. Here is an amazing sea, colorful mountains, animals, as if descended from ancient rock paintings. I want to look at this magnificence endlessly.
8.
Cache in the artist’s house
Author: Tamara Mikheeva
Subject: Wonderful writer, finalist of the Prize. Vladislav Krapivina, laureate of the National Prize “Cherished Dream” and Literary Prize. S. Mikhalkova this time performs in a slightly different role and presents an exciting … detective.
This is an unusual story, because the investigation here is conducted not by policemen and professional detectives, but by children. They investigate the disappearance of paintings from their grandmother’s house, where they came for the holidays. nine0003
Once an intricate building, and to this day keeping many secrets, belonged to the artist Mukhin, grandmother’s teacher. After him, valuable paintings remained. One day, strangers appear in the house, after whose visit the memorable meeting disappears. The heroes of the book have to learn a lot of interesting things and uncover secrets and mysteries along the way. The book is written in excellent Russian, and the illustrations deserve special praise – there are many of them, and they are very cool.
9.
« Grigory without middle name Babochkin »
Author: Anna Zenkova
Anna Zenkova is a young writer.
But well deserved. As soon as she released her debut story “With warm greetings from Fyokla”, the reader’s love immediately fell upon her. And at the same time the “Teenager N” award, the Vladislav Krapivin award in the honorary nomination “Commander’s Choice”.
Now the second story has arrived, which all schoolchildren must read! Under the cover are again teenage problems and experiences that from the first page you begin to experience, as if your own. The main characters are two completely different boys – German Babochkin plays hockey, dreams of the NHL and knows how to please everyone, and the other Grigory Stolyarov, who ended up at the same desk with him, on the contrary, is a kind of loser in life. Everyone teases him, but he … at least that. But as they say, opposites attract? This is what happens to our heroes. nine0003
10.
Two Captains
Author: Veniamin Kaverin
This is a work from the category that stays with us for life, teaches and touches to the core.
“Two Captains” is a story about friendship, betrayal and how important it is to find the truth, even if it means putting half of your life into it.
Due to an illness suffered in childhood, Sanya Grigoriev cannot speak. One day, a large water wash a mailman’s bag on the shore. For many months, the main entertainment for the children is reading letters written by the participants of the polar expedition. nine0003
Sanya cannot even imagine that he will soon learn to speak again, meet people closely associated with that expedition, and tell them the whole truth. Alas, Grigoriev will be accused of slander and now he will have to prove his case by all means.
Psychologist’s comment
Anna Shilkina, child psychologist :
— My son and I love “Mr. Toomey’s Christmas Miracle” by Susan Wojciechowski . It is about how the most unusual stories can happen around Christmas and how lonely hearts find each other. A special atmosphere is also created by amazing illustrations by Patrick Lynch .
I want to read this book every winter! She teaches to accept people with their shortcomings, with their pain, and also tells how care and participation can warm a wounded soul. Makes you think about the importance of doing what you love.
“Prostodursen. Winter from start to finish” by Norwegian Rune Belsvik is a book-friend for us. Every time my child and I discover something new in it. In a small country, there are heroes doing ordinary things. But there are enough problems. It is difficult to understand others, especially if they are not like you, to experience your bad mood, as well as the change of seasons, to be older, to give in. This book is a real guide on how to behave in difficult psychological situations. nine0003
Snow Book: Poems and Songs is absolutely indispensable for winter holidays. It contains classical poems – Tyutchev, Pushkin, Yesenin, as well as contemporary poets, such as Andrei Usachev. Bright and sincere pictures help to develop imaginative thinking and memory.
One of my favorite works is “ Bruno’s Bear Winter” by the Swedish writer Gunilla Ingvas . Book-mood, book-joy! This is a simple story about a bear cub and his dog friend Lola. It takes place in a winter forest, and the reader magically turns out to be an accomplice of events. Together with the bear, we look at the starry sky and feed the birds. Gunilla published a whole series of books about Bruno the bear, which teaches respect for nature. nine0003
Another publication for nature lovers is Christina Björk’s Linnaean Calendar . A story about a girl who closely follows what is happening in nature. She creates herbariums, crafts, gifts, plants gardens, flowers, weaves wreaths of maple leaves. This book is suitable for elementary school children. Read in one breath.
“The Adventures of New Year’s Toys” by Elena Rakitina – also for family reading. In anticipation of the New Year holidays, parents will remember how they were children and how they felt the approach of miracles, and children will learn the history of New Year’s toys, about their character.