Book summaries for 5th graders: Favorite books for 5th graders

5th grade reading books for children aged 10-11 in Elementary School

Books for grade 5 – this list of recommended reading books for grade 5 has been curated and compiled by teachers and librarians to appeal to elementary school children in the 5th Grade, aged 10-11. There is a range of exciting and thought-provoking books to suit all abilities, including easy readers and more advanced texts. This list of 5th grade reading recommendations contains titles by Kate Messner, James Patterson, Madeleine L’Engle and E.B. White.

I Can Make This Promise by Christine Day

A middle-grade story of self-discovery. Edie finds a box on the attic – full of letters – and a photo of a woman that looks like her. But her mother, who was adopted, refuses to explain further. So begins a quest to find the truth, full of difficult moments, tragedy and revelations. An important book that provides a good starting point to discuss the 1978 Indian Child Welfare Act.

Historical | Diverse

The Red Tree by Shaun Tan

Filled with beautiful and evocative images, and sparing yet moving text, this picture book captures the sense of hopelessness and despair that children can sometimes feel. After walking through dark and disturbing landscapes, a beacon of hope appears in the shape of a red leaf. When dawn breaks, a red tree is revealed as a symbol of hope and renewal.

Picture book

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle

When a mysterious stranger arrives at the Wallace household, Meg and Charles’ world is changed forever and they set out on a quest to find their missing father. A great science fiction mystery story.

Science fiction | Classic

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

A fascinating story told from the point of view of Ivan, a captive gorilla. One day, after years in a cave, Ivan sees life differently when a baby Elephant arrives at the zoo. A great story about friendship.

Animal story

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli

Magee is an orphan child who lives with his aunt and uncle. One day he decides to run away and start on a series of heroic and unexpected achievements which change his life and his town forever.

Adventure

Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren

The classic story of Pippi, who has wild hair and an even wilder, sassy outlook on life, getting up to all sorts of mischiefs. A very funny book and ideal for reluctant readers.

Classic

Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket

A stunning set of stories about the orphaned Baudelaire children and the increasingly dark situations they manage to scrape through, including avoiding the money grabbing clutches of the evil Count Olaf.

Adventure | Mystery

Coraline by Neil Gaiman

An inventive and slightly scary graphic novel about a young girl looking for new adventures who gets caught up in a strange situation which requires all her courage to escape from.

Graphic novel

The Borrowers by Mary Norton

A modern classic about little people who live unnoticed in the walls and under the floors in a country house. Charming, this book is a great read full of twists and turns.

Classic

Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

The original and timeless pirate adventure story, full of cliffhangers and plot turns. A thrilling read from start to finish and full of unforgettable characters.

Adventure | Classic

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L Frank Baum

A classic fantasy and allegory story, written at the turn of the 20th century. The timeless story of Dorothy, The Cowardly Lion, the Tin Man, Scarecrow, Toto, The Wizard and the Wicked Witch of the West will still resonate with middle-grade children. There’s also a series of lesser-known sequels.

Classic | Fantasy

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

When Jess and Leslie become friends through a shared love of track running, they spend time creating an imaginary world – Terabithia. But when Leslie goes there without Jess, something terrible happens and life will never be the same. A modern classic.

Classic

Wonder by RJ Palacio

A touching and thought-provoking story about Auggie, who wants to be like everyone else but struggles with how the other fifth graders react to his unique face. A great book to help children empathize with differences and understand the importance of inclusion.

Diverse

Descendants series by Melissa de la Cruz

A gripping and imaginative spinoff from the Disney movies Sleeping Beauty and Maleficent and set in the world of Maleficent. High fantasy adventure and strong characters dominate this series which is great for reluctant readers who can watch the films first.

Fantasy | Adventure

Narnia series by CS Lewis

C.S. Lewis’ classic series of children’s fantasy books – best known for The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe – has captivated young readers for generations. Fantasy, good vs evil, and adventure underpin these parallel world adventures where the lead characters are middle-grade children. This is an ideal 5th grade reading book series for the classroom.

Fantasy | Classic

A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park

This beautifully written novel flits between two characters and time periods – Nya, a girl in 2008 and Salva, a boy in 1985. Both live in Sudan, searching for their families and safety from war.

Historical | Diverse

The Tapper Twins by Geoff Rodkey

Set in the modern digital world, the Tapper Twins Claudia and Reese are always looking to prank each other in school and online. A very funny and easy to read graphic/illustrated novel but also thought-provoking.

Humor

The Water and the Wild by KE Ormsbee

Elliot is ill and gets more and more sick by the day. Lottie doesn’t know what to do until she discovers a route to another world through the roots of an old apple tree. Although there’s plenty of danger, she hopes to find a magic cure.

Fantasy

The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks

A must read modern classic for middle-grade children. Omri was hoping for a little more than a cheap plastic toy for his birthday. But through unexpected and old magic, the toy is turned into a real person. Can Omri keep him secret?

Classic

Just My Luck by Cammie McGovern

Benny isn’t enjoying school. He doesn’t have a friend, isn’t good at bike tricks and blames himself for things which have gone wrong at home. When he thinks things can’t get any worse, he slowly realizes his caring nature is all that he needs to survive. A great book to inspire resilience.

School story

Lost in the Pacific by Tod Olson

A gripping survival story set in WW2. When as USAF bomber runs out of fuel over the Pacific Ocean, a great war hero on a top-secret mission is in great danger. The only option is to ditch in the sea. Can the crew survive? This is a great 5th grade reading book for reluctant readers.

Historical | Adventure

The Mechanical Mind of John Coggin by Elinor Teele

John Coggin runs away from home with sister Page to avoid a life in the family coffin-making business. But soon they find themselves in great danger. Darkly humor, with strange and colorful characters. Ideal for grade 5 readers interesting in science and making things.

Humor | STEM

Miracles on Maple Hill by Virginia Sorensen

When Mary’s family move from the city to a farmhouse in the country, her life changes completely, and she is drawn into a simpler, kinder world full of adventure and awe. Full of happiness, this book is ideal for children interested in the outdoors and wild places.

Adventure

Treasure Hunters by James Patterson

Fast-paced, with short chapters and gripping plots, this series of adventures is ideal for reluctant readers in grade 5. Think Clive Cussler style page turners for ten year olds in grade 5.

Adventure

Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy

A unique series of books about a skeleton private investigator with attitude who solves mysteries and fights crime. Edgy, but fun and easy to read. A gripping series for grade 5 readers.

Horror | Mystery

The What on Earth Timeline Collection by Christopher Lloyd

Visually stunning and huge foldout books which can either be used as wall charts or room length friezes full of facts and illustrations which children can walk around to read. Quite unique, the books cover history, nature and science topics in vast detail. This is an ideal 5th grade reading book for the classroom.

Non fiction

Stuart Little by EB White

Stuart Little is a mouse who has lived with his family in New York his entire life. But when his best friend Margalo disappears, he ventures outside to search. By the author of Charlotte’s Web. Perfect to read aloud in grade 5.

Classic | Animal story

Call it Courage by Armstrong Sperry

Set in the Pacific islands of Polynesia, Maftu – the son of a great chief – is afraid of the ocean. When a storm comes, he is determined to show everyone his courage. Inspiring and timeless. A great 5th grade class reader.

Adventure

Garden Princess by Kristin Kladstrup

Adela is a princess who would rather be a gardener than part of the royal family. When she visits the enigmatic Lady Hortensia’s spectacular garden, she realizes there’s something very strange about her plants – which flower even in fall and winter. An atmospheric and interesting novel.

Middle grade novel

Half Upon a Time by James Riley

Jack, the son of Jack and the beanstalk Jack, meets Princess May from the land of punk in his journey to fix his family’s bean thieving reputation. A very funny and interesting fantasy world take on the classic children’s folk-tale.

Fantasy | Fairy tale

Freaky Friday by Mary Rodgers

Annabel cannot bear her mother, sister and brother; chores and being told off. Longing to be an adult, one day she wakes up as her mother! But her dreams of watching TV all the time eating whatever she likes don’t quite work out as planned.

Humor | Middle grade novel

The Seventh Wish by Kate Messner

Charlie wishes she could catch a fish so big it would pay for an amazing dress for the next dance competition. But when she hooks a magical speaking fish which can grant wishes, things don’t go to plan at all in this hilariously funny family story of resilience and independence. A great story for grade 5 book clubs.

Fantasy | Humor

The Green Ember by SD Smith

Rabitts Heather and Picket live in a world of power struggles, good vs evil, dynasties, treachery, and revenge in this clever combination of aminals, fantasy and quest. An ideal 5th grade reading book for children who like animals.

Animal story | Fantasy

Almost Home by Joan Bauer

Sugar’s life is turned upside-down by the death of her grandfather and her father’s gambling. But when a new family and rescue dog Shush comes into her world, Sugar finds new and inspiring ways to survive. A heart-warming and fulfilling read.

Family

Atlas Obscura by Joshua Foer

A stunning nonfiction guide to lesser-known wonders of the world. Stunning and vibrant illustrations make this bound to appeal to more reluctant readers. A great addition to every 5th grade library.

Narrative non fiction

Harry Potter series by JK Rowling

Harry Potter is an ideal series to hook a middle grade child on reading. Easy to read and fast paced, these gripping fantasy wizard school adventures develop in plot complexity and characterization throughout the seven books.

Fantasy

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20 Best Books for 5th Graders to Read

Looking for the best books for your 5th graders? From read aloud to novel studies to independent reading, there are so many different options and it can be challenging to find quality novels that engage your students while supporting critical thinking about the text.

What you’ll find on this page:

20 Amazing 5th Grade Books You Need to Get Now

Whether you grab a single copy for your classroom library or read aloud or you buy a whole class set for a large group novel study, these 20 novels are fantastic for fifth grade students.

For each book I am sharing below, I’ve included a short plot summary to help you determine whether it is a good fit for your classroom. I also shared links to the trifold novel study pack that can help save you prep time and ensure you’re covering those essential comprehension standards.

I’ve included a variety of 5th grade level books to help you meet the needs and interests of your below, on-level, and above-level readers. I know your fifth graders will love these great stories and you’ll be ready to rock your year with a great 5th grade book list! 

(If you’re new to trifold novel studies, read more about them in my What are Trifold Novel Studies? post.)

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Purchasing via these links won’t cost you any extra, but I earn a small percentage commission that helps me keep this site running.

1.

The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

I purposefully put this title first out of all the 5th grade books on this list because it is truly an AMAZING story. The kind that you just can’t put down, and it is truly deserving of the awards it has received.

The main character is a girl named Ada who is born with a twisted foot. An embarrassment to her mother, she is both physically and mentally abused and kept hidden away in their dirty apartment as the threat of World War II looms closer. When her brother is sent to the countryside to escape the danger, Ada bravely decides to sneak out and join him.

This begins a chapter of Ada’s life where she learns she is capable of so much more than she thought. As she learns to ride a horse, read, and be self-confident, Ada also begins to learn what love is and discovers that she is worthy of being loved.

Reading Level:

• Advanced
• Lexile: 580L
• DRA: 60
• Guided Reading: Z+

Buy the Book: The War that Saved My Life

Get the No Prep Novel Study: The War that Saved My Life Novel Study

2.

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle

This sci-fi novel tells the story of Meg Murry, who feels she just doesn’t fit in. After a strange night of storms and unexpected visitors, Meg winds up on an unexpected journey to save her father that takes her through space and time.

This Newbery award-winning novel takes students on an adventure that challenges their thinking about what really exists in the world beyond their understanding.

With challenging vocabulary and great opportunities for higher-level comprehension and discussions, this is the perfect novel to get your high-achieving 5th graders thinking and talking about their reading.

Reading Level:

• Advanced
• Lexile: 740L
• DRA: 60
• Guided Reading: W

Buy the Book: A Wrinkle in Time 

Get the No Prep Novel Study: A Wrinkle in Time Novel Study

3.

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

Set in World War II, this historical fiction novel follows the story of a ten-year-old girl named Annemarie as her family attempts to help save their Jewish friends from the Nazis.

When her best friend is left to live with her and must pretend to be Annemarie’s dead sister, they begin facing the most dangerous challenge of their lives.

Great as a companion to your social studies standards, this story really brings the challenges and hardships children and families faced during the Nazi regime to life while giving students relatable characters and high-level vocabulary exposure.

If you are looking for an amazing historical fiction novel, you won’t find any more engaging and thought-provoking than this one! It is a definite must-read.

Reading Level:

• On-level
• Lexile: 670L
• DRA: 50
• Guided Reading: U

Buy the Book: Number the Stars

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Number the Stars Novel Study

4.

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Another novel focused on kindness and being your true self, Fish in a Tree is the story of a girl named Ally who has mastered the art of hiding her inability to read…that is, until her new teacher, Mr. Daniels, figures it out and helps Ally see that she doesn’t need to be ashamed of having dyslexia.

A great novel for talking about learning differences and individual talents. With likable characters and situations that could be happening in your own school or classroom, Fish in a Tree is sure to be a winner with your fifth graders.

Reading Level:

• Advanced
• Lexile: 550L
• DRA: 60
• Guided Reading: X

Buy the Book: Fish in a Tree

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Fish in a Tree Novel Study

5.

Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick

When two boys who might otherwise be considered misfits team up, they become an unstoppable force.

The topics built into the plotline of this story include physical disabilities and learning disabilities, which makes it a great forum for having discussions about inclusion and kindness toward others.

A great book about the development of a friendship against the odds, there is lots of action and adventure in this great novel, but there is also some sadness at the end…so be prepared.

Reading Level:

• Advanced
• Lexile: 930L
• DRA: 60
• Guided Reading: W

Buy the Book: Freak the Mighty

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Freak the Mighty Novel Study

6.

Old Yeller by Fred Gipson

Old Yeller is a classic novel set in the post-Civil War era. It is so popular that you probably already know the gist of the plot, but in case you don’t, here are the (general) details.

After unsuccessfully trying to drive away the old golden retriever he found, Arliss ends up being saved by him. Despite the dog’s naughty antics, this act of heroism endears him to the family and forms a bond between dog and owner. This act of heroism won’t be Old Yeller’s last.

With highs and lows throughout, this touching story is one that has held up over time. Strong writing and excellent characters make it a perfect novel study for your 5th grade class.

Reading Level:

• On-level
• Lexile: 910L
• DRA: 50
• Guided Reading: V

Buy the Book: Old Yeller

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Old Yeller Novel Study

7. Rules by Cynthia Lord

Another Newbery winner, this realistic fiction book is a great read and includes a cast of characters that could be the kid in the next seat over. The story focuses on Catherine, a twelve-year-old, struggling with her brother’s autism and her desire to have a “normal life”. As the events of the story unfold, Catherine realizes that normal isn’t always what you think it is.

A great story for analyzing change across time, this story will connect with students on a number of levels and spark great discussions in your 5th grade classroom.

Reading Level:

• On-level
• Lexile: 670L
• DRA: 40
• Guided Reading: R

Buy the Book: Rules

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Rules Novel Study

8.

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

Get your tissues ready because you’re likely to cry reading this one. (No, seriously, be sure the tissue boxes aren’t empty if you assign it to students.)

A great book for those animal lovers in your classroom, this novel is the story of Billy and his two hunting companions. A classic story full of adventure, emotion, and heartbreak, this book is truly a must-read for every student.

While there will likely be tears shed, there will also be great discussions that help build students skills in literature analysis including characters and their relationships, how setting impacts plot, and more.

Reading Level:

• Advanced
• Lexile: 700L
• DRA: 60
• Guided Reading: X

Buy the Book: Where the Red Fern Grows

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Where the Red Fern Grows Novel Study

9.

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

Would you want to live forever?

This book makes students really think about whether this is such a good thing as they read about the Tuck family as they explain the challenges of their life to a ten-year-old girl named Winnie Foster after she discovers their secret. However, when a stranger follows Winnie to locate the mystical spring that brings eternal life, they must face the challenges that arise.

This is such a great novel for discussion. With lots of amazing characterization and a plotline that pulls young readers in, your students will have so much fun discussing this story and deciding whether they’d want to live forever.

Reading Level:

• Advanced
• Lexile: 770L
• DRA: 60
• Guided Reading: W

Buy the Book: Tuck Everlasting

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Tuck Everlasting Novel Study

10.

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli

For starters, Jerry Spinelli writes some great books for 5th graders…so it was tough to decide which to include in this list. However, Maniac Magee rose to the top because it digs deep into a number of themes that are engaging and important to talk about with students.

After becoming an orphan, Jeffery Magee becomes a local legend due to his athletic ability and fearless nature. Despite this he still faces numerous conflicts (both internal and external) within the small town of Two Mills. From bullies to racism, this story covers many deep topics that are just as top of mind today as they were in the story.

Full of rich detail and opportunities to think beyond the text, this is a great choice for your fifth grade readers.

Reading Level:

• Advanced
• Lexile: 820L
• DRA: 60
• Guided Reading: W

Buy the Book: Maniac Magee

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Maniac Magee Novel Study

11.

The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare

This is the story of an unlikely friendship and coming of age.

While his father is away, Matt must learn to coexist with nature in order to survive. With the help of the Beaver clan, he begins to adapt to his new life on the frontier, but he also realizes the challenges the tribe is facing from the new settlers and the changing environment they bring.

A Newbery winner, this book is engaging and captures the reader’s imagination with lots of great vivid details. Students can really imagine themselves in Matt’s shoes as he learns to survive.

Reading Level:

• On-level
• Lexile: N/A
• DRA: 50
• Guided Reading: T

Buy the Book: The Sign of the Beaver

Get the No Prep Novel Study: The Sign of the Beaver Novel Study

12.

Holes by Louis Sachar

If you haven’t read much Louis Sachar, prepare to laugh! He truly writes some funny children’s books.

This particular story has won numerous awards and is the tale of Stanley, a boy who is sent to a juvenile correction facility called Camp Green Lake.

Full of irony (the camp is in the middle of the desert) and some interesting characters, this story captures readers early on and takes them on a wild ride as Stanley begins to wonder if the holes they are being forced to dig to “build character” are really a hunt for something else.

Reading Level:

• On-level
• Lexile: 660L
• DRA: 50
• Guided Reading: V

Buy the Book: Holes

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Holes Novel Study

13.

The Giver by Lois Lowry

Another great science fiction story (and Newbery Medal winner), this is the story of Jonas.

While it seems his life is perfect, this all changes when he is given the job of Receiver of Memory. Soon he discovers that his colorless world is not the calm, peaceful place that he grew up knowing. Instead, he must consider whether this existence is really what is best for society and face the challenging decisions that lie ahead.

There are three companion books that go along with this great novel, and I guarantee your students will be hooked once they’ve read this story. With great plot twists and unexpected events, the discussions you can have about The Giver are truly limitless.

Reading Level:

• Advanced
• Lexile: 760L
• DRA: 60
• Guided Reading: Y

Buy the Book: The Giver

Get the No Prep Novel Study: The Giver Novel Study

14.

Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Tragedy transforms Esperanza’s life from one of great riches to one of hard labor in this historical fiction novel.

A young girl faced with the death of her father ends up having to overcome great challenges as she learns to survive without all the things she had become accustomed to (including incredibly low paying migrant work).

A great novel with a multi-cultural lens, Esperanza Rising is beautifully told with many great opportunities to explore sensory details and other aspects of writer’s craft.

Reading Level:

• On-level
• Lexile: 750L
• DRA: 50
• Guided Reading: V

Buy the Book: Esperanza Rising

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Esperanza Rising Novel Study

15.

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

A story of friendship and loss, this amazing novel is the story of a fifth grader (Jesse) who becomes friends with a girl from school after she beats him in a race.

Despite having very different life experiences, the pair is soon inseparable, and through the friendship, Jesse learns to be brave and manage his emotions.

The title comes from the kingdom they create for themselves in the woods, which they name Terabithia.

Reading Level:

• On-level
• Lexile: 810L
• DRA: 50
• Guided Reading: T

Buy the Book: Bridge to Terabithia

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Bridge to Terabithia Novel Study

16.

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein

This story follows a group of children who win an essay contest held by the nation’s most famous gamemaker. As winners, the group gets the chance to be the first to see their town’s new state-of-the-art library and the ability to compete in a contest for even bigger and better prizes.

Unlike the rest of the winners, Kyle Keeley, a fun-loving kid with a competitive streak, gets in on a last-minute entry. Lucky for him, he’s Lemoncello’s biggest fan and the ultimate gamer.

The best part about this book is students get to play along with the characters as they try to solve the puzzles that will win Mr. Lemoncello’s contest and let them escape from the library.

Full of drama, excitement, and adventure, this story is a great one for even reluctant readers.

Reading Level:

• On-level
• Lexile: 720L
• DRA: 50
• Guided Reading: V

Buy the Book: Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Novel Study

17.

The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Imaginations run wild with this delightful tale by C.S. Lewis. You can almost imagine the excitement of discovering a magical door hidden in your own wardrobe.

When four siblings step through the door of their new wardrobe they discover a whole new land called Narnia. Unfortunately, this land is under the power of the White Witch and is frozen in an eternal winter. This story follows their quest as they help the Great Lion, Aslan, save the kingdom.

Reading Level:

• On-level
• Lexile: 940L
• DRA: 50
• Guided Reading: T

Buy the Book: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

Get the No Prep Novel Study: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe Novel Study

18.

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

After surviving a plane crash in the rugged wilderness of Canada, Brian is in the fight of his life. This story is the ultimate in survival fiction as students follow Brian’s transformation from a scared, unsure boy to a strong, independent survivor. From making

From creating a fire to gathering food, Brian makes a lot of mistakes in his quest to survive, and Paulsen’s writing captures the imagination of readers pulling them into Brian’s journey.

Reading Level: 

• Below-level
• Lexile: 1020L
• DRA: 40
• Guided Reading: R

Buy the Book: Hatchet

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Hatchet Novel Study

19.

Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien

A fantasy tale about a widowed mouse and her small children, in this story Mrs. Frisby is faced with a move…or certain death.

With a young son suffering from pneumonia and numerous other challenges, Mrs. Frisby lucks out when she encounters the rats of NIMH. These (as luck would have it) highly intelligent problem-solvers develop a brilliant answer to Mrs. Frisby’s unfortunate situation.

A great read with lots of high-quality vocabulary!

Reading Level: 

• On-level
• Lexile: 790L
• DRA: 50
• Guided Reading: V

Buy the Book: Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH

Get the No Prep Novel Study: Mrs. Frisby & the Rats of NIMH Novel Study

20.

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Looking for some great fantasy books for 5th graders? Check out the Percy Jackson series.

This fantasy based on Greek mythology is a great novel that follows the story of Percy Jackson as he learns he is not just a typical 12-year-old boy. After discovering he is a demigod, Percy winds up on a quest to find Zeus’ stolen lightning bolts.

Great for students who love the Harry Potter series, this book is just the first in a whole series.

With lots of action and excitement, along with relatable characters, your students will be begging to read the rest of the series after they finish this one.

Reading Level: 

• Advanced
• DRA: 60
• Guided Reading: W

Buy the Book: The Lightning Thief

Get the No Prep Novel Study: The Lightning Thief Novel Study

Now that you’ve got a good list of 5th grade books to read…

After seeing the popularity of my post about the best novels for 4th graders, I was inspired to compile this list of the 20 best books for fifth grade. (I’ve also added a list of the best novels for 3rd graders, in case you need it.)

Did I forget your favorite?? Leave me a comment and let me know your favorite novel for 5th graders.

Ready to Plan Your 5th Grade Novel Unit?

While you’re here, grab my free novel study planning roadmap to get step-by-step support to plan a high-quality literature unit for your fifth-grade students whether you’re in the classroom or homeschooling. Whether you’re a planning your first novel study or just looking for new ideas, you’ll love this great tool.

Looking for more great books to add to your library?

If you’ve got a broad range of reading levels or are trying to diversify your classroom library without spending a ton of money, here are some of my favorite books for other reading levels.

If you’ve already filled your book list for 5th grade, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered. Check out the links below to access more great novels for other grade levels.

55 Recommended Chapter Books for 5th Grade Readers

5th grade is such a transformative age for many kids. For most schools, 5th grade is the final grade before students transition into middle school. This can be a time of explorations, finding what types of activities and hobbies you enjoy, and reading should be included in these.

Here are 55 of our favorite book series that will inspire your 5th graders to dream big, make new friends, and believe in themselves.

1. Loser

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This inspirational novel by Jerry Spinelli shares the magical power of believing in yourself and not caring what other people think. The main character Zinkoff is a little goofy, other kids seem to notice, but he doesn’t. One day his uniqueness helps him become a hero no one was expecting, showing how the true power of accepting who you are pays off.

2. The Kids of Cattywampus Street

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This highly anticipated chapter book by Penguin Random House is a wacky and mysterious story about friendship that is sure to win over any and all reluctant readers. The exciting story follows a group of kids who live on the same unique street, and as the chapters progress, we learn just how fantastical these unusual friends really are.

3. Number the Stars

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Award-winning author Lois Lowry gives us a provocative, heroic 5th grade level story about a young Danish girl who tries to help her Jewish friends escape the Nazis. The brave 11-year-old-girl Annemarie conceals her best friend Ellen as part of her family to help her make it to Sweden where she can be safe from Nazi persecution.

4. From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler

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This book is versatile enough to entertain your 5th grade readers as well as your 7th grade readers. It follows Claudia, a young girl who wishes to run away from home to scare her parents and bring her brother with her. She decides to hide out in the Metropolitan Museum of Art where she finds a beautiful statue but no one knows who made it. Thus the adventure begins.

5. Bud, Not Buddy

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Christopher Paul Curtis made the best book of the year list on multiple publishings with this captivating story of a young boy on a quest to find his father. This heart-warming book is filled with adventure stories, humor, pain, and the true meaning of family.

6. The One and Only Ivan

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This innovative and creative novel by Katherine Applegate is part of a 2 books series that has won multiple awards, as well as being turned into a major motion picture! The story follows an older captive gorilla who has forgotten all about his wild life until he meets a baby elephant who reminds him of the life he lost. This is a classic story about friendship and what defines “home”.

7. The Dreamer

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Pam Munoz Ryan and Peter Sis worked together to create this masterpiece of a book about the childhood of a beloved poet Pablo Neruda. It depicts the life of a young Chilean boy who trusts his intuition and follows his inner voice to discover what the world has to offer him through nature, language, relationships, and adventure.

8. The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart

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Stephanie Burgis is known for her exciting fantasy books, and this one is no exception. This book follows a young female dragon who wishes to go out and explore the world but ends up being tricked to drink poisonous chocolate that turns her into a human. She falls in love with chocolate and sets off on a quest to find a way to change back…and also to find more chocolate!

9. A Tale of Dark and Grimm

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Hansel and Gretel set off on an entirely new adventure with this medley of fantasy stories including classics we all remember with witches, dragons, and demons. The writing by Adam Gidwitz blends together horror, suspense, humor, and imagination to create an exciting new perspective on the Grimm fairy tales we know and are scared to love.

10. The War That Saved My Life

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This historical fiction novel by award-winning author Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is a heartfelt story of a young girl with a twisted foot, her brother, and her neglectful mother during World War II. The story follows the siblings as they escape their mother and the Germans and live with a woman named Susan in London. How will their lives change, and will it be for the better or worse?

11. Smile

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This goofy and relatable graphic novel by Raina Telgemeier tells (the author’s) story of how she fell and busted her two front teeth in the sixth grade. What happens afterward is a series of annoying teeth procedures and embarrassing gadgets and equipment to get her smile back. The story is charming, incorporating humor stories about boys, natural disasters, and becoming comfortable with yourself.

12. Ghost

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Inspiring and award-winning first book in a four-book series, Ghost by Jason Reynolds, tells the story of a middle school boy who is part of an elite track team training for the junior olympics. His natural sprinting talent comes from a dark place in his childhood and causes Castle Cranshaw aka Ghost to struggle with his focus and determination. Can he and his team work together and win the gold?

13. Awkward

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This cute and quirky middle school story involves a young art-loving girl named Peppi and an awkward science-loving boy named Jamie. The two have some unfortunate encounters and rival clubs that constantly bring them together in the most uncomfortable ways. Can they survive the chaos of the social jungle that is middle school, and will they form an unlikely friendship? This graphic novel will paint you the perfect picture.

14. Front Desk

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The author Kelly Yang tells an important and relevant story revolving around the issues and concerns for immigrants in the United States. Young Mia and her family live and work at the Calivista motel where they clean the rooms, check in customers, and secretly help immigrants by giving them a place to stay in vacant rooms for free. This is not known or approved by the motel owner Mr. Yao, so the family is always on edge. Will their kind efforts be rewarded or will their luck run out?

15. Dead City

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This 3-book series is sure to excite any zombie-loving 5th grade readers you know. The first book introduces Molly, a zombie fighting tween who balances school, friends, and killing zombies on a weekly basis! Her mother was the most revered zombie hunter in her city’s history so she has some big shoes to fill. Now, if she only knew if her mom was really dead or out there looking for some brains to eat…

16. Masterminds

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This dystopian 3-book sci-fi series is about clones, science experiments, criminal parents, and trying to escape a jail-like city to find out the truth. When Eli and his friends realize their whole life has been a lie, it is time for them to take action. How can they leave a city designed to keep them trapped and oblivious inside? Will they ever learn who they really are and take control of their lives?

17. Framed!

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James Ponti wrote this action-packed 3-book series about a special boy named Florian. He has developed a special strategy called TOAST (Theory of All Small Things) he uses to survive middle school situations, but it actually works for solving real-world mysteries, and the FBI is interested! Can Florian balance his normal life, and help the police catch criminals?

18. Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life

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This middle-grade level series by James Patterson is filled with relatable 5th grader + issues like bullying, self-discovery, first loves, and following rules. Rafe is a regular kid trying to survive middle school on top of his difficult home life. He decides to make school a little more interesting by trying to break all the rules in the school’s rule book. How do you think this will turn out? Read all about it in this 14 book series!

19. Strange Case of Origami Yoda

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This Star Wars-inspired 6-book series by Tom Angleberger follows a quirky 6th grade boy who doesn’t quite know how to fit in. Dwight has trouble knowing how to act and what to say, but he loves to make origami. One day he makes a little origami Yoda, who to Dwight’s surprise, has a special sense of predicting the future and giving spot-on advice. Will little Yoda help Dwight solve all of his social problems and make him popular? Read and find out!

20. Belly Up

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This mystery-packed book series by Stuart Gibbs is an exciting story of a hippo named Henry that died at FunJungle zoo. A young boy Teddy, and his friend Summer speculate that there was some fishy business to Henry’s death and they want to investigate. Who committed the murder, and will these two be able to prove it?

21. Race to the Sun

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This creative and impactful fantasy series by Rebecca Roanhorse demonstrates the power and strength of family and heritage. Set in the American Southwest and touching on issues of Native American folklore and heritage, this adventurous fantasy story follows a 7th grade girl named Nizhoni as she discovers her heightened senses to detect evil. Her father is taken by his corrupt boss who has unleashed ancient monsters into this world. Nizhoni and her brother must harness all the help they can get to save him, and the world as they know it.

22. Act

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This book is part of a 4 book graphic novel series called Click by Kayla Miller. Olive is a 6th grader, excited to go on the big field trip with her friends until she finds out some kids can’t go due to school policy. She decides that she wants to try and change that. Can Olive make a difference for her peers? Will her efforts cause her to lose her friends? Read and find out!

23. Princess Academy

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Bestselling author Shannon Hale gives us this 3-part series about a young village girl named Miri, who lives on a mountain where the future princess is prophesied to be chosen by the prince. This compelling story takes her on a journey that may lead to the castle, but will this mean losing everything she holds dear?

24. Real Friends

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A beautifully illustrated work of fantasy by Grace Lin, tells the adventure stories of Pinmei as she tries to rescue her storytelling grandmother who was taken by the Emperor. Pinmei thinks she knows a way to get her grandmother back, and it lies in finding the legendary Luminous Stone That Lights the Night.

27. The Smartest Kid in the Universe

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Chris Grabenstein gives us another one of his humor stories in this 2-part series about Jake, the boy who became a genius. His secret: lab-engineered “information jellybeans” he accidentally ate A LOT of. Now that he knows everything, can he use his super brain to save his middle school and outsmart the powerful people that want to use him?

28. Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library

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This bestselling 5-book series by Chris Grabenstein is full of puzzles and mysteries for the reader to solve along with the main character Kyle and his friends. When a famous game maker Lemoncello builds a library in Kyle’s town, he is dying to explore it. But what happens when the grand opening event is over, the doors are locked, and Kevin and his friends are still inside?

29. It’s the End of the World and I’m in My Bathing Suit

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Apocalypse takes on a new and comical meaning in this creative 5th grade novel by Justin Reynolds. Young Eddie will do anything to avoid doing his laundry over the summer, but today is the day…he has no more clean clothes left. In the middle of his washing the power goes out and he quickly realizes there’s something way bigger going on than his dirty clothes.

30. Epic Zero

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This 4-part action-packed series is a great option for reluctant readers. It stars a family of superheroes, well, all but little Elliott. He is the only one in his family that is a “zero”, which is someone with no superpowers. He has to live an ordinary life different from his family until a girl tells him about a mysterious magical orb she believes only Elliott can find.

31. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky

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This intense 3-part fantasy series by Kwame Mbalia brings to life many gods and heroes from African folklore. Tristan is a 7th grade boy who just lost his best friend in an accident. An encounter with a mysterious creature who tries to steal his friend’s old notebook leads to a fight that opens a portal to another world. In this world monsters, gods, and chaos reside that wish to enter our world, can Tristan close the portal he opened before it’s too late?

32. Max and the Midknights

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Lincoln Peirce brings to life a group of ragtag young knights as they go on a wild mission to save little Max’s uncle from the evil King Gastley. This quirky and hilarious 3-book series will entertain any reluctant reader with cute cartoonish illustrations and goofy adventure stories.

33. One for the Murphys

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A cunning and beautiful story by Lynda Mullaly Hunt about what “family” means, and the journey of a closed-off girl named Carley. The Murphy’s are Carley’s new foster family, and being with them feels like a whole new world. They are kind, and open, and have taught her what it feels like to be a part of something. When her birth mother wants her back, what will Carley choose?

34. Fish in a Tree

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Another inspiring and thought-provoking story by Lynda Mullaly Hunt shows young readers that being different does not make you less valuable than anyone else. Ally is a girl with dyslexia that has always been able to hide her learning challenges with distractions and quick wit, until one day a new teacher sees through the games and wants to show Ally how to give herself a chance.

35. Who Is Malala Yousafzai?

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Part of the “Who Was” series, that highlights important people making great changes in the world. Malala was a girl from Pakistan that advocated for women to be able to get an education. Her efforts and writing brought a lot of attention to important women’s rights issues and young readers will benefit from hearing her story.

36. Where the Wild Things Are

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Now, this is a classic story by Maurice Sendak suitable for children as young as 5 all the way to adult readers. There are so many bigger meanings found in the conflicts, friendships, and experiences of the little boy Max and his ferocious creatures.

37. Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus

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A stunning and inspirational book telling the story of a young girl Ava, who was born with no arms. When her parents take a new job at a theme park in Arizona, she must start over in a new school being asked the same questions. Until one day she meets a boy with Tourette syndrome and together they realize each is capable of greatness.

38. Wink

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A middle-grade book that’s great for class discussions or at-home reading. Your 5th graders will laugh and cry along with this heartbreaking novel about young Ross, a 7th grader that just got diagnosed with eye cancer that will make the rest of school a challenge. How can he maneuver the looks and awkwardness from friends and teachers as he progresses through this visible life challenge?

39. Song for a Whale

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Here is an award-winning story about a young def girl Iris, who wants to communicate with a whale that cannot sing to other whales. Her life has always been a bit complicated, and many people assume she isn’t smart because she cannot hear, but Iris is actually a tech wizard! Can she figure out a way to talk to this misunderstood whale and build a bond that will change both of their lives forever?

40. Pax

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A story of friendship, loyalty, and determination from the perspective of an animal and his human. Pax is an orphaned fox that young boy Peter found when he was just a little kid. They have been inseparable for years until Peter’s dad has the family move, leaving Pax behind. When Peter realizes he can’t live without Pax, he goes on a journey to find his best friend.

41. Leonard (My Life as a Cat)

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This witty and entertaining novel tells the story of an alien that crashed on Earth, and instead of taking the shape of a human, he looks like a cat. A young girl Olive finds the little alien cat and calls him Leonard. Despite Leonard’s attempts to leave Olive and change his fate, he ends up finding happiness and love with his new life and owner. Will he choose to leave her and go back to his home planet, or stay in his new life on Earth.

42. I, Cosmo

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An adorable book told from the point of view of Cosmo, an old golden retriever who lives with a family that is going through some rough patches. Cosmo has always been able to take care of Max, his young boy, and make sure he is happy and looked after. But when Max’s parents start fighting and dad is on the couch, it’s up to Cosmo to hold the family together.

43. Lola Levine Is Not Mean!

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A relatable story by Monica Brown is about one incident affecting your life and causing others to judge you. This 1st book in a 4-part series tells the story of little Lola and her struggle with classmates calling her “mean”. One day at school Lola accidentally hurts a classmate during a soccer game, and now everyone is calling her “Mean Lola Levine”. With help from her family, best friend, and her writing skills, can she change the other kids’ minds and put the past behind her?

44. Maximillian Fly

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This creative and thought-provoking novel tells the story of Maximillian, a part-human part-cockroach boy that has been living a quiet life in the shadows until one day, two kids show up at his house in need of help. Their friendship and struggles paint an important picture of understanding, acceptance, and kindness in a daring and unique way.

45. Coo

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A daring and exceptional tale of a baby rescued by a flock of pigeons, and raise on their rooftop. Little Coo has spent her whole childhood living like a pigeon (minus the flying). She loves her bird family, until one day a hawk badly hurts one of her pigeons named Burr. Coo must venture down to the ground and find help for her flying friend, but once she interacts with humans, she begins to realize just how different and complicated life can be.

46. Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: One Dead Spy

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Nathan Hale gives us this 11-book graphic novel series about true stories in American history with all of the excitement, conflict, and triumph. In this first book about the Revolutionary War, Nathan Hale is a spy that must aid his rebel side to defeat the much larger and better-prepared army. How does he do it?

47. Super Puzzletastic Mysteries: Short Stories for Young Sleuths from Mystery Writers of America

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Have any 5th graders that love solving mysteries and completing puzzles? This is the perfect series for them! Grab your detective gear and start reading these 20 mysterious cases that need your help to solve through clues, hints, and critical thinking skills.

48. Class Pets: Fuzzy’s Great Escape

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Bruce Hale gives us this animal-packed 4-book series about classroom pets and the inner workings of their social group. Fuzzy, the guinea pig wants to be the president of the Class Pets Club, but when a charming bunny shows up, he needs to step up his game to win. Looks like it’s time for a class pet field trip!

49. Because of Winn-Dixie

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A classic story by bestselling author Kate DiCamillo about a girl and her dog. Opal has always had trouble making friends and communicating what she wants, especially when it comes to her mother leaving as a child. But when she goes to the market one day and meets Winn-Dixie, everything changes.

50. Gabby Garcia’s Ultimate Playbook

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In this 3-book series, a baseball-loving girl named Gabby is always on her game. She is confident, strong, charismatic, and obsessed with winning on and off the field! Her life is going according to plan until one day she has to change schools and her winning streak runs out. Will Gabby get her groove back and remain a champion?

51. A Good Kind of Trouble

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An important and relatable story about courage, education, and realizing some rules are worth breaking. Young Shayla has always been a good student and daughter, avoiding conflict and problems at all costs. But when she starts 7th grade important issues begin to surface, such as equality, safety, rights, and justice for Black people. Will she join in the fight and let go of her fear of causing trouble for the sake of her future?

52. President of the Whole Fifth Grade

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Brianna has big dreams for her future cupcake-baking business, so when Miss Delicious, her idol celebrity chef, comes to her school and tells the kids her career started when she was 5th grade president, Brianna knows what she needs to do. Will her journey in the campaign brings her closer to her dreams, or will she fold under the pressure?

53. White Bird: A Wonder Story

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This is a companion book to the bestselling Wonder with an inspiring and moving message about kindness and courage. Young Palacio is a Jewish girl living in the time of Nazi-occupied France. When she must go into hiding, her rescuer happens to be a young boy from her class she use to make fun of. Will his goodwill change Palacio for the better and bring about a new friendship?

54. Save Me a Seat

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Getting through school is hard when your best friends move away, or your family moves from India and you have to start all over at a new school. Joe and Ravi are two boys that are dealing with these issues. They find friendship and support in each other and decide to make some changes in their lives, starting with the bully at school.

55. Freak the Mighty

Fifth grade

Literature curriculum
for 5th grade
in summary

• Black Hen

  Anthony Pogorelsky fairy tale

  About forty years ago, in St. Petersburg on Vasilyevsky Island, there lived the owner of a men’s boarding school. Among the thirty or forty children who studied at that boarding school, there was one boy named Alyosha, who was then no more than 9 or 10 years old …

• Mumu 🐶

  Ivan Turgenev story

  A cruel, capricious and domineering lady separated a deaf-mute servant from her beloved woman and forced her dog, his only friend, to be drowned. Having fulfilled the order of the mistress, the servant returned to his native village.

• The Snow Queen ❄️

  G. H. Andersen fairy tale

  The boy Kai, poisoned by fragments of a magic mirror, gets to the Snow Queen. His named sister Gerda finds the boy and melts the pieces with the love of her pure heart.

• Ruslan and Lyudmila

  Alexander Pushkin · poem

  Prince Vladimir the sun is feasting in a gridiron with his sons and a crowd of friends, celebrating the wedding of his youngest daughter Lyudmila with Prince Ruslan. In honor of the newlyweds, the harpist Bayan sings…

• Prisoner of the Caucasus ⛓️

  Leo Tolstoy story

  Russian officers – a coward and a brave man – were captured by the highlanders. The coward lost heart, but the brave did not give up. After an unsuccessful escape, he befriended a mountain girl and ran away again. The coward was ransomed barely alive.

• Robinson Crusoe

  Daniel Defoe · novel

  Robinson was the third son in the family, a darling, he was not prepared for any craft, and from childhood his head was full of “all sorts of nonsense” – mainly dreams of sea voyages. .

• White poodle 🐩

  Alexander Kuprin · story

  A boy from a wealthy family likes a white poodle with whom itinerant artists perform. The dog is persuaded to sell, then stolen. The little acrobat rescues the dog.

• The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

  Mark Twain novel

  Aunt Polly searches all over the house for her mischievous nephew Tom Sawyer and catches him when the boy tries to sneak past …

• Petka at the dacha

  Leonid Andreev story

  Osip Abramovich’s hairdressing salon, where Petka lived and worked, was located near a quarter filled with “cheap debauchery houses”. ..

• The pantry of the sun 🐺

  Mikhail Prishvin fairy tale

  Almost every swamp hides untold wealth. All the blades of grass and blades of grass growing there are saturated with the sun, saturating with its warmth and light. Dying, plants do not rot, as in the earth…

• Vasyutkino lake 🐟️

  Viktor Astafiev story

  The boy got lost in the taiga. By chance, he went to a lake full of fish, and from there he got to a large navigable river and returned home. Then the boy led the fishermen to the lake, which was named after him.

• Anna Snegina

  Sergei Yesenin poem

  The action takes place on the Ryazan land in the period from the spring of 1917 to 1923. The story is told on behalf of the author-poet Sergei Yesenin; the image of “epic” events is transmitted through the attitude of the lyrical hero towards them. ..

• Twelve months

  Samuil Marshak fairy tale

  In the winter forest, a wolf is talking with a raven, squirrels are playing with a hare in burners. They are seen by the Stepdaughter, who came to the forest for brushwood and firewood (sent by her cruel Stepmother)…

• In a bad society 🏰️

  Vladimir Korolenko story

  A boy from a good family made friends with a beggar brother and sister. When the weak girl fell ill, the boy gave her an expensive sister’s doll for a while. The girl died, and the boy’s father realized how good his son was.

• Gutta-percha boy

  Dmitry Grigorovich story

  Artists are crowding behind the scenes of the circus, the people are cheerful and careless. Among them stands out a not too young bald man, whose face is heavily painted white and red. ..

• Head of Professor Dowell

  Alexander Belyaev · novel

  Marie Laurent, a young doctor, receives an offer to work in Professor Kern’s laboratory. The office in which Kern receives her makes a very gloomy impression…

• Konduit and Shvambrania

  Lev Kassil story

  The main characters (they live in Pokrovsk): (the story is told on behalf of the author – me), mother, father, Oska – younger brother, Annushka (servant), Marfusha (servant), cousin Mitya, zemstvo, director …

Robinson Crusoe – Daniel Defoe. Summary. 5th grade

Robinson Crusoe – Daniel Defoe. Summary. 5th grade

Robinson Crusoe was born into a middle class family. His father dreamed that his son would become his assistant. But Robinson was an adventurer. Distant lands beckoned him. Several of his sea voyages were successful, until one day their ship was captured by pirates. Robinson had to serve the captain of a pirate schooner. Over time, the captain began to trust him and even let him go fishing. Taking advantage of the moment, Robinson swam away to the open sea. He was picked up by a Portuguese ship. At the request of Robinson, the captain landed him in Brazil. There was a lot of rich land on which tobacco and sugar cane were grown. Robinson Crusoe decided to become a planter, and he did it well. He lived in harmony with his neighbors, they respected him for his enterprise.

It was difficult to cultivate the land by myself. Then Robinson, together with his neighbors, decided to acquire slaves. It was expensive to bring them from Africa, so we agreed to sail to Guinea. Robinson Crusoe was entrusted with the purchase. Before sailing, he documented the lease of his land to a trustee.

A storm broke out on the way to Guinea. The ship was wrecked. Of the entire team, only Robinson survived. When he came to his senses, he immediately realized that there was no one to wait for help from. From the wrecked ship, he transported on a raft everything that remained intact on the ship and could come in handy. After examining the island, he realized that he was alone on it. Robinson built himself a hut not far from the sea, surrounded by a palisade. He learned to hunt, tamed wild goats. When his clothes wore out, he began to sew them from animal skins. Finding a handful of grain in an old bag, he decided to plant it. A few years later he already had a whole field of wheat. Robinson hollowed out a boat from a tree trunk, but could not drag it to the water because of its weight.

Ten years have passed. Robinson continued to hope that the day would come and a ship passing by the island would save him. Once on the island where Robinson lived, savages sailed in boats and brought with them two bound people. Robinson managed to save one of them, they killed the second. The rescued native Robinson Crusoe called Friday. Now he had an object for communication and care. He taught him to speak English, tried to introduce him to his religion.

Soon the savages appeared on the island with new victims. They were Friday’s father and a captured Spaniard. The intentions of the savages were clear. Robinson, along with Friday, managed to help these people out of trouble. Now there were four of them, and it was necessary to think about how to feed the new settlers of the island. While everyone was restocking supplies, a ship approached the island. Part of the team landed on the shore, they dragged the bound captain behind them. From their conversation, the islanders realized that there was a riot on the ship. Robinson and his friends rescued the captain, and the sailors were disarmed. The ardent rebels were left on the island, and the captain took Robinson and his companions with him.

Robinson Crusoe returned to England after spending fourteen difficult years on the island. For the lease of the land he acquired in Brazil, Robinson received a lot of money for all the years of his absence. Despite his sixty-odd years, Robinson Crusoe got married. His wife bore him three children.

Roman teaches you to achieve your goal, to remain human in any life situations and not to despair.

Robinson Crusoe – read a brief retelling of Daniel Defoe’s novel. 5th grade

Young man Robinson Crusoe leaves his parents’ house, dreaming of the sea. After two journeys, he falls into Turkish captivity. Robinson manages to escape and settle in Brazil.

Another journey to the shores of Africa leads to disaster. During a storm, the entire team dies. One Robinson gets to a desert island.

The unfortunate one does not give up. Every day he works hard, mastering the professions of a carpenter, potter, tailor, etc. A few years later, he starts a whole economy on the island.

One day Robinson learns that cannibals are visiting the island. He manages to save one prisoner, who gets the name Friday. The appearance of a comrade strengthens Robinson’s hope to return to his homeland.

Then Robinson beats off the Spaniard from the cannibals and learns that several more Europeans live on the neighboring island. With their help, he hopes to build a small ship and sail to Brazil.

Suddenly, pirates land on the island. Robinson enters into battle with him, frees the captured captain and helps him return his ship. In gratitude for this, the captain delivers Robinson to England. In total, the main character spent twenty-eight years on the island.

Robinson Crusoe – the shortest content (very briefly)

Daniel Defoe’s novel is about the life of a sailor from York, who spent 28 years on a desert island, where he ended up as a result of a shipwreck.

The basis of the theme of the work was the spiritual and intellectual development of a young guy who ended up in unusual living conditions for him. The main character has to re-learn how to live, make the necessary items, get food and take care of himself.

The book is included in the school curriculum for 5th grade students.

Spring.

A book for extracurricular reading. Grade 5″