book reviews 3rd grade

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Best Books for Third Graders

As kids age 8 and 9 get deeper into the world of chapter books , they begin to discover the genres that most appeal to them, from sci-fi, horror, and fantasy to mystery, history, and adventure. From beloved classics to more recent sensations, these relatable books will be a hit with your third grader. There are also plenty of graphic novels and funny tales that are perfect to hook reluctant readers and get them hungry for other types of books. Take a look at our list and see what might grab your young reader. Once they're done, try the Best Books for Fourth Graders .

Amari and the Night Brothers: Supernatural Investigations, Book 1

Girl finds her magic in fun fantasy full of surprises.

Black Brother, Black Brother

Boy challenges school bully in exciting sports story.

The City of Ember

Part fantasy, part mystery, part treasure hunt.

Strange, surreal tale sure to creep kids out.

Dragons in a Bag, Book 1

Exciting tale of New York kid's journey to magical world.

Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures

Funny, poignant tale of cynical girl, superpowered squirrel.

From the Desk of Zoe Washington

Girl works to clear her father of a crime in smart tale.

Gone Crazy in Alabama

Harrowing tale of Gaither girls' summer in the South.

James and the Giant Peach

Lonely boy's magical adventure still satisfies.

The One and Only Ivan, The One and Only, Book 1

Heartwarming story of a heroic, artistic, captive gorilla.

Simon B. Rhymin', Book 1

Fun story about boy whose creativity sparks his empathy.

Things Seen from Above

Kids discover a quirky loner's talent in lovely, kind story.

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky: Tristan Strong, Book 1

Teen connects with African folklore in exciting fantasy.

What Was? Series

Exceptional, relevant series brings history to life.

When You Trap a Tiger

Superb family tale of loss has mystery, folklore, sadness.

Where Is? Series

Interesting, fun facts about natural and human-made places.

Who Was? Series

Exceptional biography series teaches history, culture, too.

A Wish in the Dark

Dazzling, Thai-inspired riff on Les Mis has big heart.

Anne of Green Gables

Beloved classic features lovable, imaginative heroine.

Artemis Fowl, Book 1

Witty and exciting series start with irresistible antihero.

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• How to Raise a Reader
• Help Your Kids Find Books with Diverse Characters
• How Comics Helped My Kid Love Reading
• Books Tweens and Teens Recommend to Friends

Best Books for 3rd Graders

Enhance your 3rd grader's reading journey with these top-ranked books that blend educational value with enjoyment, as celebrated by various children's literature experts and reviewers..

70 Must-Read Books for 3rd Graders

Aimee Miles

Aimee Miles is a newly-minted librarian, mother to two small children, and former grand champion goat showman. She has collected two citizenships, three different driver’s licenses, and approximately 300 dearly loved books. Sadly, she currently has zero goats. You can see her quiet Twitter at Icanread4Miles and her blog on children's books at https://bringthemupbookish.wordpress.com

View All posts by Aimee Miles

Third grade in particular can offer a real challenge when figuring out a bookish gift. The two main things to keep in mind when picking books for 3rd graders are 1) the wide range of reading capabilities for 3rd graders, 2) that reading needs to be fun for kids who are developing their relationship with reading.

Third graders reading abilities can vary widely. In 3rd grade, 7- and 8-year-olds might read a couple of grade levels in either direction, meaning kids could be reading anywhere from what’s considered average for a 1st grader to what’s average for a 5th grader. And that’s fine. Reading takes practice, so helping kids find books that will give them confidence and help them practice is key.

One of the biggest things for kids at this age is getting books they’ll enjoy reading. Reading skills are developed through reading practice, but if reading isn’t fun, it’s so hard to practice. When picking out a book for your 3rd grader, picking out something fun is just as important as picking out something that is good quality. We want to lay down a foundation of good experiences with books!

Graphic Novels For 3rd Graders

Graphic novels are ideal for building up fun reading experiences for kids. The art provides context for words and draws in readers who may find a page full of words intimidating. Though they are ideal for any reader who likes good stories!

Cucumber Quest by Gigi D.G.

Join Cucumber bunny as he’s forced onto a quest to save the Dreamside kingdoms from the Nightmare Knight, even though all he wants to do is leave the adventuring to his sword-wielding sister Almond and go to magic school.

The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier

The zombie apocalypse has happened and as usual the adults are useless, so it’s up to a group of kids to rescue their friend June. For anyone who like monsters, emotional intelligence, and gross-out humor!

Princess Princess Ever After by Katie O’Neill

Princess Amira, astride a unicorn and sporting a mohawk and military jacket, helps Princess Sadie decide to leave behind her tower and her self-doubts about her big body as they go off on adventures, encountering flustered princes, difficult older sisters, and, finally, a happily ever after.

The Dragonet Prophecy by Tui T. Sutherland

Adapted from the popular Wings of Fire fantasy series, the five dragonets of The Dragonet Prophecy have been hidden underground for their whole lives and emerge to find their world overrun with violence and treachery. Plug your dragon-lover in here.

Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi

Ever popular with kids who have a taste for things that are slightly dark and creepy, this graphic novel series follows siblings Emily and Navin as they set out to rescue their mom from a world below the ground filled with freaky monsters and strange allies.

Phoebe and Her Unicorn by Dana Simpson

If you are looking for a book with Calvin and Hobbs vibes, look no further! Whimsical Phoebe and her snarky unicorn bff, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils make everyday experiences charming and silly in a clean and colorful art-style.

Princeless: Save Yourself by Jeremy Whitley

Similar to Princess Princess Ever After , but with a longer story arc and deeper exploration of the characters. Princess Adrienne gets tired of being in her tower so she runs off with the dragon guarding her to rescue her sisters locked away in their own towers. A great example of how many ways one idea can be explored!

Real Friends by Shannon Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Navigating friendships is hard and no one captures it quite like Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham. Hale tells the story of her own struggles to find a healthy friendship throughout elementary school, taking us from her first day of Kindergarten through to Sixth Grade. Pham’s art is beautiful as ever and parents may want a hankie while reading.

Zita, Space Girl by Ben Hatke

Your graphic novel reader will be charmed by self-assured Zita, who accidentally transports herself and her diffident best friend Joseph to a planet in turmoil.

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier

Cat and her sister Maya move with their family to Northern California because of Maya’s poor health. Everything gets more interesting when they find out there are ghosts in their new town, and Cat finds that the ghosts can be more than just outside of you. Wildly popular Telgemeier is always a hit with kids.

Avatar, The Last Airbender: Graphic Novel by Gene Luen Yang

Nickelodeon’s fantastic cartoon series serves as the jumping off point for these comic which continue the adventures of Aang and Co. after the end of the series. Kids who love Aang and Korra will gobble these books up!

Mighty Jack by Ben Hatke

Master storyteller Hatke gives a twist to Jack and the Beanstalk. This Jack, his sister Maddy, and his friend Lilly grow a magical garden, battling to keep it under control, all while his mom works two jobs.

Secret Coders by Gene Luen Yang

Stately Academy is rife with mysteries and coding puzzles with Hopper and Eni finding sidewalk cleaning robots and bully-neutralizing inventions. Readers will learn the basics of coding through thoughtful illustrations and bright art.

Starting Chapter Books For 3rd Graders

Ling and ting: not exactly the same by grace lin.

Ling and Ting are twin sisters, but they are not exactly the same. Quick stories told in a few pages, Ling and Ting enjoy gentle silliness, each story ending with a little twist.

Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa by Erica Silverman

Kate and her talking horse Cocoa look out for each other in this sweet early chapter book paired with beautiful watercolor art.

Frog and Toad / Owl at Home / Grasshopper on the Road by Arnold Lobel

Arnold Lobel knows how to create the perfect little story for young readers. They are sweet and silly and affirming, with a twist that delights adults as well as children. Easy to read and rewarding to finish.

The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale

What do you get when you combine a princess and a superhero? The Princess in Black, a superhero working hard to save the goats from the monsters who want to eat them AND to keep her alter-ego, Princess Marigold, meeting all the social conventions a princess is expected to meet!

Mercy Watson by Kate DiCamillo

Mercy Watson is a pig who lives with her doting owners, Mr. and Mrs. Watson. She loves hot buttered toast and finds herself in silly situations. Prep your own hot buttered toast before reading!

Mermaid Tales by Debbie Dadey

Mermaid best friends Shelly, Echo, Kiki, and Pearl take the familiar friendship stories of elementary school readers undersea. The friends learn social skills like inclusion and how to get along with friends and siblings, which is just want young elementary kids love to read about. Also everyone is a mermaid, so the fish puns will catch you!

Saving the Team: The Kicks by Alex Morgan

Written by an Olympic soccer player with a gold medal, The Kicks series starts off with ten-year-old Devin moving to Kentville, California, and trying to settle into her new soccer team—who really need some direction!

Geronimo Stilton and Thea Stilton

Geronimo is a mouse journalist who wants a quiet life, but himself on wild adventures in far off lands, sometimes accompanied by his sister, Thea, a detective who has her own spinoff series. This wildly popular series was translated from Italian and offers a multitude of books for kids who get obsessed with the series.

Myth-o-mania by Kate McMullan

Spin traditional Greek myths on their heads! Zeus made it all up! It’s all lies! Hades sets things straight while introducing kids to fractured versions of Ancient Greek mythology.

A-Z Mysteries by Ron Roy

Considered some of the best early chapter books for kids reading on their own, the A–Z Mysteries start off with three kid-detectives solving a case for every letter of the alphabet. Firmly in the cozy mystery sphere, rather than scary mysteries, early chapter book readers love this series.

Lola Levine Is Not Mean by Monica Brown

Lola Levine is a soccer-obsessed, word-loving second-grader who has a loving family, a believably affectionate/antagonist relationship with her younger brother, and not as many friends as she’d like. Lola embraces both sides of her Peruvian/white Jewish family and grows and changes in her own lovable way!

My Weird School by Dan Gutman

Hilarity and wordplay are the themes running through A.J.’s account of his time at his school, Ella Mentry School, where the staff are wacky and the kids have got things figured out.

The Chicken Squad by Doreen Cronin

J.J. is a retired search-and-rescue dog who now spends his days looking after a group of four baby chicks who get themselves into all sorts of trouble, despite his best efforts. Farmyard hilarity!

Eerie Elementary / The Dragon Masters / Owl Diaries

Scholastic Branches is a collection of books targeted at kids moving between leveled readers and longer chapter books. With illustrations on most pages and six-page chapter, new readers can build up their skills following the stories of a boy who finds that his school is actually a building with malicious intent, a good-natured boy who gets chosen to befriend a dragon, and the diary of an owl girl who has a life very similar to most elementary school kids.

Anna Hibiscus by Atinuke

Anna Hibiscus lives in amazing Africa with her extended family and her white Canadian mother. Anna longs to see snow, while having quiet adventures with her family.

No. 1 Car Spotter by Atinuke

Switching from Anna Hibiscus’s privileged world to Oluwalese (or No. 1) who lives in a small village in Nigeria, Atinuke shows another face of childhood. No. 1’s story has the same gentle humor and interconnected storytelling as Anna Hibiscus, as he helps out his family and engages in his favorite pastime, spotting cars that drive by.

Zoey and Sassafras by Asia Citro

Zoey and her cat Sassafras discover they can see the magical creatures who come to their barn for help. Zoey uses her “Thinking Goggles” and her adherence to scientific method to solve the magical mysteries of what is making the plants and animals sick.

Ruby Lu: Brave and True by Lenore Look

Bubbly Ruby Lu loves her life, which she lives at full volume. She gets herself into a few scrapes along the way that Ramona Quimby fans will enjoy, such as introducing herself as a frog when she starts Chinese school, and when her baby brother learns to talk and spills her best magic show secret.

Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Thing s by Lenore Look

Second grader Alvin is upfront about his anxiety, which leaves him in situations that, while not scary, the book is matter-of-fact about his difficulties. Alvin has a loving family who help him as he suffers through moments of anxiety, and Alvin himself has a strong, endearing character voice. The book doesn’t give him any magical solutions, but he does learn to deal with some of his worries.

The Great Cake Mystery: Precious Ramotswe’s First Case by Alexander McCall Smith

Spinning off of his adult series about Botswana’s No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency, Smith takes us back to Precious’s childhood with her father when she first develops a taste for solving-mysteries.

EllRay Jakes is Not A Chicken by Sally Warner

Third grader EllRay finds himself on the receiving end of bullying and doesn’t quite know what to do about it. A relevant topic for kids, this book offers solutions without being saccharine about them.

Bookmarks Are People Too by Henry Winkler

While it’s not stated in the first book in the series, our hero Hank deals with learning disabilities, including dyslexia. Regardless, he does his best to get along in second grade and finds his own way to make his mark. The typeface is specifically designed to help readers with dyslexia, one way this book puts its money where its mouth is.

Sugar Plum Ballerinas: Plum Fantastic by Whoopie Goldberg, Deborah Underwood

Friendship and ballerinas take the lead in this book about Alexandrea, who moves to a new ballet school in Harlem and somehow lands the leading part in the recital, even though she’s not the best dancer.

The Kingdom of Wrenly: The Lost Stone by Jordan Quinn

Gentle fantasy adventures ensue as Prince Lucas and his friend Clara, the seamstress’s daughter, strike up a friendship and help the kingdom with any troubles that arise.

Calvin Coconut: Trouble Magnet by Graham Salisbury

At home in Oahu, Calvin scares up delightful mischief, especially when a live-in nanny comes to stay and takes over his room.

Nikki and Deja by Karen English

Nikki and Deja are best friends, until a new girl on their street who is also in their class changes their dynamic, which puts their friendship to the test.

Longer Chapterbooks For 3rd Graders

Crenshaw by katherine applegate.

Ten-year-old Jackson can see another period of homelessness and living in the van coming up for his family. He can also see Crenshaw, a giant talking cat he hasn’t seen in several years…since the last time his family was homeless. Crenshaw helps Jackson deal with the difficult time in his life, and humanizing homelessness.

One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Based on a real gorilla, Ivan, who lived at a mall in Tacoma, Washington, this Newbery Award–winning book imagines being inside Ivan’s head and explores the complex humanity of animals.

In the Footsteps of Crazy Horse by Joseph Marshall III

Marshall explores the ideas of what it means to be Indian, as well as what it means to be a hero, through the stories Grandpa Nyles tells Jimmy on their road trip following Crazy Horse’s life story.

Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu

Re-imagine “The Snow Queen” with Hazel, who accidentally hits her friend Jack in the eye with a snowball, and then he is taken away by the Snow Queen. Hazel has to journey through the snowy woods to rescue her friend, who may not even want her rescue.

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

A robot, Roz, washes up on deserted island and discovers the wonders of nature as she figures out how to live and to survive.

Henry Huggins / Ramona the Pest / Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary

Beverly Cleary is much-beloved classic children’s book author (and librarian!) for a reason. Her books dig into how being a kid can lead to misunderstanding and mishap, into the humor of the mundanity of being a kid, and how mundanity is still great.

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster

Another children’s classic stuffed with puns and word play. Bored Milo finds himself in a fantastical world on the search for the missing princesses of Rhyme and Reason, balancing the two fighting brothers of Dictionopolis and Digitopolis, and getting into all sorts of interesting scrapes with his new watchdog friend, Tock.

Ivy and Bean by Annie Barrows

Bean is a lively girl with nerves to match; Ivy is a dreamy sort of girl with plenty of know-how about other worlds. Of course they are the best of friends, with Ivy coming up with creative activities and Bean having the gumption to pull them off.

Forest of Wonders by Linda Sue Park

Magical apothecary Raffa finds that boundaries might be in place for a reason and that pushing passed them might unfold unforeseen tragedies.

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

Described by the author in her TED Talk as a sort of Chinese Wizard of Oz, our heroine Minli sets out to find fortune for her struggling family and community, encountering a dragon, a magic goldfish, a king, and a green tiger. Lin is a genius and everyone should read this book.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

A magical story about families and love, the way that sorrow can be amplified when ignored, and how power can be corrupted by the wielder. This book is engrossing and thoroughly magical!

Spirit Week: The Magnificent Mya Tibbs  by Crystal Allen

Mya thinks that she’s going to be partnered with her best friend for Spirit Week, but instead gets Mean Connie for her partner. Mya learns the true depths of people, even when you think you already know them, and Allen offers up friendships of all kinds for readers to learn the many ways to be a good friend.

Dara Palmer’s Major Drama by Emma Shevah

Dara finds herself prevented from playing the perfect part in the school play…because she was adopted from Cambodia as a baby, so doesn’t apparently look the part. Struggling with her identity and place in her family and community, Dara explores her history and her present to figure out her future.

One Crazy Summer by Rita Garcia Williams

Delphine and her two younger sisters go to spend the summer with their distant mother in Oakland, California. Since it’s the summer of 196-, the girls meet the Black Panthers and untangle some family secrets.

Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

Artemis Fowl is a 12-year-old Irish master criminal looking for his parents when he gets caught up with the fairies who live underground in a bunker. With humor designed to appeal to kids, and a hero powered by his incredible brain for future Sherlock fans, this series deserves the love it gets.

Stella By Starlight by Sharon M. Draper

A white-supremacist attack brings turmoil to Stella’s North Carolina community during the Depression. Draper allows readers to experience the Jim Crow South through a safe and confident narrator.

Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai

This novel in verse follows Kim Ha as her family flees Vietnam in 1975 for Alabama, where there aren’t many other refugees or Vietnamese people. Poignant, but Lai also allows readers to laugh with Kim as she learns a new culture and language.

The Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste

Infused with Haitian folklore, Corinne’s story finds her followed by the ghost of her aunt, who wants to take over the whole island. Baptiste explores themes of colonization and of family with deliciously spooky ghosts!

It Ain’t So Awful Falafel by Firoozeh Dumas

Set in 1970s America, against the backdrop of the Iranian Revolution, Cindy works to fit in to her new school in California at the same time that her parents worry over friends and family left in Iran during the revolution.

The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy

Mildred Hubble is the worst witch at Miss Cackle’s Academy. Her spells go wrong and Ms. Hardbroom is always unhappy with her, but Mildred has a solid group of friends to fall back on. Published well before Harry Potter, Mildred is an endearing, if clumsy, heroine that you can’t help but root for.

Ghost by Jason Reynolds

The first in Reynold’s Track quartet, Ghost’s difficulties at home translate to difficulties at school until he finds his way to the track team. Now Ghost just has to figure out how to be on the team.

As Brave As You Are by Jason Reynolds

City kid Genie spends a slow summer at his grandparents’ house in the country, forging a relationship with them and dealing with his anxiety through his notebook of questions.

Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey

Rife with jokes, two friends hypnotize their principal into believing he’s Captain Underpants, out to save the world from bad guys with Wedgie Power. While frequently on lists of banned books, Captain Underpants never fails to thrill kids with toilet humor. (Comedy is all about taboos.)

Melissa by Alex Gino

In this sweet story, Melissa really wants to play Charlotte in her 4th grade class’s upcoming performance of Charlotte’s Web . Unfortunately, her teacher, classmates, and family all think that Melissa is a boy.

Star-Crossed by Barbara Dee

Maddie must overcome her nerves as she fills in for Romeo in the class play, because her crush is playing Juliet opposite her.

Harriet the Invincible by Ursula Vernon

If you’ve never read a book with a hamster princess, then meet Harriet. She’s unrestrained and feminist in her princessing, so she take her evil fairy’s curse as a chance to do good deeds before returning home to foil her own curse.

Dragonbreath by Ursula Vernon

Exuberant Danny Dragonbreath (sans fire breathing) drags his reticent iguana friend Wendell off to meet sea serpents for a class assignment for their reptile and amphibian school.

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume

Peter lives on the edge of 1970s Central Park with his parents and his two year old brother Fudge. Fudge is an adorable terror and for Peter, 4th grade is hard enough without a little brother.

President of the Whole Fifth Grade by Sherri Winston

Political ethics start young when Brianna wants to be president of her 5th grade class, despite knowing a secret that could devastate her opponent.

Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi

Aru accidentally wakes up the Destroyer and has to join up with her spirit sister, Mini, to travel through spheres of Hindu mythology in order to save the world.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

Potter-mad parents can want to introduce their kids to Harry, Ron, and Hermione asap, but kids’ readiness for the books might not manifest until close to 9 or 10. Upper elementary is a pretty good time for kids to start the books, especially as the books get darker as Harry gets older.

If you’re looking for more recommended books for 3rd graders and other elementary school kids check here  and here and here and here ! What recommendations do you have for appropriate books for 3rd graders?

Thank you to Ms. Kathleen at John Stanford International Elementary School for her input!

You Might Also Like

Favorite books for 3rd graders

by: The GreatSchools Editorial Team

Print book list

2030: A Day in the Life of Tomorrow’s Kids

by: Amy Zuckerman and Jim Daly , illustrated by: John Manders - (Dutton, 2009) 32 pages.

A talking dog, a housecleaning robot and a three-dimensional “data orb” are among the many cool features that kids might enjoy in the future, according to this lighthearted look at 2030. The breezy narrative follows one boy through a typical day, highlighting many interesting aspects of his world. Fanciful cartoon drawings show a lively and appealing world full of new and intriguing activities that correspond neatly to modern equivalents. Schools are now made from plasticized blocks that snap together, for example, while recess features virtual batting practice and a “smart trampoline.” Recreational activities include magnetized hovering skateboards and a virtual-reality “Fanta-trek Center.” Some social changes are briefly noted, such as new career paths and the increase of marriages between different ethnicities. Interaction with the natural world is not mentioned, although many of the new technologies have eco-friendly components and the food is all meatless and delicious.

Find 2030: A Day in the Life of Tomorrow’s Kids at your local library.

Best Friends for Frances

by: Russell Hoban , illustrated by: Lillian Hoban - (Harper & Row, 1969) 32 pages.

Frances can’t imagine being friends with her little sister Gloria until she is excluded from the all-boys baseball game. To her surprise, Gloria makes a good friend, but can she ever be a best friend? If your child enjoys this book, introduce her to other stories in this series including A Birthday for Frances.

Perfect for: Kids who like making friends.

Find Best Friends for Frances at your local library.

The Facts and Fictions of Minna Pratt

by: Patricia MacLachlan - (Harper & Row, 1988) 144 pages.

Minna grows up with some odd friends and relatives. MacLachlan’s stories are a rarity in today’s children’s books — simple, gentle tales of children who manage to be reasonably nice kids without being insipid. Minna Pratt is an amazingly delightful book, a book that makes you smile all through it, a book that makes you want to know all of the characters in real life.

Find The Facts and Fictions of Minna Pratt at your local library.

George and Martha

by: James Marshall - (Houghton Mifflin Company, 1972) 48 pages.

George and Martha are two hilarious hippo friends who invariably get themselves into sticky situations. Your child will love finding out what happens when George does not like the split pea soup that Martha has made for him in “Split Pea Soup,” just one of the five humorous stories in this collection.

Find George and Martha at your local library.

Hedgie’s Surprise

by: Jan Brett - (Putnam Juvenile, 2000) 32 pages.

Henny wants to raise little chicks, but an elf keeps stealing her eggs before they hatch. Your child will be surprised to learn how her friend Hedgie helps Henny scare off the bothersome elf once and for all. Make a special point to draw your young child’s attention to the nearly hidden pictures that border each page of this book.

Find Hedgie’s Surprise at your local library.

A Letter to Amy

by: Ezra Jack Keats - (Harper & Row, 1968) 32 pages.

In this classic book about friendship, Peter has a falling-out with his friend Amy. Peter fears the worst — that Amy will not come to his birthday party. Children will relate to this story’s themes, and Ezra Jack Keats’s collage illustrations will intrigue children and parents alike.

Find A Letter to Amy at your local library.

by: Janell Cannon - (Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1993) 46 pages.

The hook: Stellaluna is a baby fruit bat happily flying along with her mother when an owl attacks. The poor little bat is knocked out of her mother’s grasp and lands in a birds’ nest. The mother bird accepts Stellaluna as long as she acts like a bird, not a bat. Soon enough, Stellaluna learns to eat bugs and stop hanging by her feet. When she finally has a chance to show her bird siblings, Pip, Flutter and Flap, what life as a bat is like, they are left all in a muddle: “How can we be so different and feel so much alike?” one asks. Anyone who has ever been in a position where they can’t be who they really are will relate to Stellaluna’s predicament. Cannon’s award-winning illustrations convey the nocturnal world beautifully. Readers will be enchanted by this book with its messages of acceptance, friendship and a mothers’ love.

Want to see the movie? The 2012 animated adaptation fleshes out the picture book with additional characters and songs while staying true to the story.

Find Stellaluna at your local library.

That’s What Friends Are For

by: Florence Parry Heide and Sylvia Van Clief , illustrated by: Holly Meade - (Candlewick, 2003) 40 pages.

Theodore, the lumbering elephant, hurts his leg so badly he can’t walk to the edge of the forest to meet his cousin. Will his friends’ advice help him solve his problem, or does he need something more? The collages of painted paper and repeating text pattern will make this reprint of the 1968 classic one of your child’s favorites.

Find That’s What Friends Are For at your local library.

Fairy Tale Feasts: A Literary Cookbook for Young Readers and Eaters

by: Jane Yolen and Heidi E. Stemple , illustrated by: Philippe Beha - (Crocodile Books, 2006) 197 pages.

Jane Yolen retells familiar fairy tales in a brief and lively style, while her daughter, co-author Heidi Stemple, pairs them with at least one kid-friendly recipe that connects with the story’s theme or references. For example, “Cinderella” is presented with a recipe for pumpkin tarts, while “The Runaway Pancake” is matched with, of course, a recipe for pancakes. The tales are divided into four sections: breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. The colorful illustrations add to the fun, and margin notes provide additional information on main ingredients and the stories and their origins. Adult supervision will be necessary for completing the recipes, but this book would be a great way for the whole family to share a reading and eating experience.

Perfect for: Kids who like to cook.

Find Fairy Tale Feasts: A Literary Cookbook for Young Readers and Eaters at your local library.

How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World

by: Marjorie Priceman - (Random House, 1994) 40 pages.

A young baker travels the world to find the finest ingredients for her apple pie. On her journey, she introduces the reader to cultures and products from around the globe. After the raw ingredients are prepared for the pie, the baker invites children from around the world to share it with her. The recipe is included at the end of the book.

Find How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World at your local library.

by: Andrew Clements , illustrated by: Brian Selznick - (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 1996) 112 pages.

When clever yet precocious Nick decides to invent a new word for pen, it puts him at odds with his no-nonsense teacher, a stickler for grammar and proper word usage. What begins as a classroom duel over the usage of the word “frindle,” escalates into a national word craze.

Perfect for: Kids who like realism.

Find Frindle at your local library.

I and You and Don’t Forget Who: What Is a Pronoun?

by: Brian P. Cleary , illustrated by: Brian Gable - (Lerner Publishing Group, 2004) 32 pages.

This book tells a story in rhyme, using different types of pronouns, leading children to become more apt to remember what pronouns are. The colorful illustrations feature funny monster-like creatures taking part in everyday activities.

Perfect for: Kids who like poetry.

Find I and You and Don’t Forget Who: What Is a Pronoun? at your local library.

Summer Reading Is Killing Me

by: Jon Scieszka , illustrated by: Lane Smith - (Viking, 1998) 80 pages.

This installment of the popular Time Warp Trio series is homage to some of the best-ever summer reading lists. Sam, Fred and Joe happen to have in their possession a bona fide time traveling book. When one of the boys absentmindedly puts their summer reading list in the book, they find themselves in the midst of a literary battle of evil against good!

Perfect for: Kids who like fantasy.

Find Summer Reading is Killing Me at your local library.

Dexter the Tough

by: Margaret Peterson Haddix , illustrated by: Mark Elliott - (Simon & Schuster, 2007) 144 pages.

Dexter is tough! On the first day of school, he lashes out when he trips and the other kids laugh at him. He punches another kid in the bathroom. But like so many kids with a gruff demeanor, Dexter is acting out because of a painful circumstance at home. He learns to express his emotions because of a gifted teacher and a writing assignment. I can think of no better lesson for a child to learn — feelings come out, one way or another — and finding a healthy way to sort them out is important. Perfect for a third-grader who has been bullied, or who can be too tough with others.

Perfect for: Kids who like stories about school.

Find Dexter the Tough at your local library.

Mapping Penny’s World

by: Loreen Leedy - (Henry Holt, 2000) 32 pages.

Lisa’s class is learning how to make maps in school. For a homework assignment, she decides to make a map of her dog Penny’s world. She includes the places where Penny likes to hide her toys and the best walking routes. This fun story will also help your child learn about the important features of maps.

Find Mapping Penny’s World at your local library.

La Mariposa

by: Francisco Jiménez , illustrated by: Simón Silva - (Houghton Mifflin, 1998) 40 pages.

La Mariposa is a beautifully illustrated book about author Francisco Jiménez’s childhood as a member of a Mexican migrant farm family. Young Francisco prepares himself for English-only first grade, without knowing a word of this new language. As the days pass, he becomes more and more uncertain if he will ever learn English, learn to read or find a friend. However, his beautiful drawings of butterflies help him win over the class bully and begin to transcend the barrier of language.

Find La Mariposa at your local library.

Thank You, Mr. Falker

by: Patricia Polacco - (Philomel, 1988) 40 pages.

Patricia Polacco describes what it was like to be unable to read in the fifth grade. She was taunted by classmates and plagued with her own self-doubt until a teacher finally recognized that she couldn’t read and gave her the assurance and help she needed to succeed.

Find Thank You, Mr. Falker at your local library.

by: Edward Eager - (Oxford University Press, 1954) 208 pages.

Half Magic was the Magic Tree House of its day. As if wizardry was not enough, our four main characters take on multiple adventures with only “half” the magical prowess they need from a found coin. The kids devise clever ways to utilize the coin’s capacity and the result is a very cool and captivating story. If your child falls in love with Half Magic, there are several sequels to quench their thirst for more.

Perfect for: Kids who like classic stories.

Find Half Magic at your local library.

Homer Price

by: Robert McCloskey - (Puffin, 1943) 160 pages.

Homer Price’s six sidesplitting exploits included here will keep your child reading and rolling in the aisles. Author of many wonderful books, including the award-winning Make Way for Ducklings and Blueberries for Sal , Robert McCloskey was truly inspired by his funny bone when he wrote these stories.

Find Homer Price at your local library.

by: J.M. Barrie - (Charles Scribner's Sons, 1911) 240 pages.

The hook: The original language is rich, and the story, so much a part of our culture, inspires children to dream. Some of the racial and gender stereotypes, typical for their time, will need explanation.

Want to watch the movie? The still-enchanting Disney classic contains some dated stereotypes but may prompt great discussions about how movies have changed since 1953.

Find Peter Pan at your local library.

Rabbit Hill

by: Robert Lawson - (Viking Press, 1944) 128 pages.

Rabbit Hill is a time-honored book about a family of rabbits and the meaning of community. The characters are the same as they are in any neighborhood; you get a little of everything, both funny and frustrating. The inspired vocabulary makes for a welcome challenge and the environmental element of the story inspires discussion. Perfect for a parent-child book club.

Find Rabbit Hill at your local library.

The Wheel on the School

by: Meindert DeJong , illustrated by: Maurice Sendak - (Harper & Bros., 1954) 320 pages.

Set in Holland in a tiny fishing village, this is the story of Lina and her classmates. After doing some research for a school report, Lina is determined to lure storks back to their village as they are believed to bring good luck. This book won the 1955 Newbery Award.

Find The Wheel on the School at your local library.

Bone #3: Eyes of the Storm

by: Jeff Smith - (Graphix, 1996) 192 pages.

Fone Bone, a fanciful character, hides from the rat creatures with Gran’ma Ben (a former queen) and his human friend, Thorn (who finds out she is a princess). This graphic novel weaves together intrigue and humor.

Perfect for: Kids who like fantasy stories.

Find Bone #3: Eyes of the Storm at your local library.

The Castle Corona

by: Sharon Creech , illustrated by: David Diaz - (Joanna Cotler Books, 2007) 336 pages.

This is a clever, fun fairytale with positive messages. There is mild fairytale violence and of course, budding romance. A storyteller tells a story in which parents and siblings die and thieves are killed; the killings are shown as unjust. Families can talk about being grateful and what the characters learned about the responsibilities that come with privilege. Why was the princess so unhappy? Why weren’t riches enough for the royals? How did the peasants feel about the royals once they met them?

Find The Castle Corona at your local library.

Cinderella (As if You Didn’t Already Know the Story)

by: Barbara Ensor - (Random House, 2006) 128 pages.

This version of the familiar story allows girls to connect with Cinderella as they dive deep into the life of a fairy-tale princess. The modern-day twist allows the readers to hear the story in a unique and interesting way.

Find Cinderella (As if You Didn’t Already Know the Story) at your local library.

How to Train Your Dragon

by: Cressida Cowell - (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2004) 224 pages.

The hook: This humorous 15-book series follows Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, the brainy undersized son of a hulking Viking chief. He describes himself as “not a natural at the Heroism business.” Hiccup, along with the other young Vikings, must choose a dragon hatchling to train and learn to become a warrior before being initiated as an adult member of the tribe. Filled with slightly rude humor that will appeal to preadolescents (including character names like “Dogsbreath the Duhbrain” and “Snotface Snotlout,”), and rough — but funny — illustrations, this engaging series is sustained by themes about being an underdog and succeeding in ways outside the norm.

Want to watch the movie? The animated adventures How to Train Your Dragon (2010) and How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014) are loosely based on the book series.

Perfect for: Reluctant readers who are tickled by preteen humor.

Find our favorites at your local library: How to Train Your Dragon , How to Be a Pirate , How to Cheat a Dragon’s Curse .

In the Ice Age: Andrew Lost #12

by: J.C. Greenburg - (Random House, 2005) 85 pages.

In this installment of the Andrew Lost series, Andrew and Judy must save their Uncle Al — a top-secret scientist and inventor of the Time-A-Tron time-travel machine — from the Ice Age. They use their creative problem-solving skills to escape from saber-toothed tigers and make friends with a group of Ice Age people, all while avoiding the clutches of the evil Doctor Kron-Tox. This book has it all: adventure, humor and a super-smart robot named Thudd who peppers the story with true facts about the Ice Age.

Find In the Ice Age: Andrew Lost #12 at your local library.

Knights of the Kitchen Table

by: Jon Scieszka - (Viking, 1991) 55 pages.

This first book in the Time Warp Trio Series is an imaginative and humorous read. The book begins with three boys celebrating a birthday. One of the presents happens to be a book with a card that states, “Be careful what you wish for.” Once the book is opened, the boys are transported back to the time of knights, giants and dragons. If you enjoy adventure and fantasy this is a must read!

Find Knights of the Kitchen Table at your local library.

Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye, Geronimo Stilton series

by: Geronimo Stilton - (Scholastic, 2004) 128 pages.

This series is a favorite for boys who are reluctant readers. Hip language and vocabulary, cultural references, multi-colored fonts, colorful illustrations and maps are both eye catching and motivating factors for young readers. Geronimo Stilton is a mouse who is editor-in-chief of a popular newspaper, and he has found himself in a particularly interesting situation. Geronimo’s sister, Thea, discovers a treasure map, where an X marks the spot, of hidden treasure. Come join Geronimo and his sister as they travel to a faraway island in search of the Emerald Eye. Will a hurricane stop them or a sinking boat? You must read to find out.

Find Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye, Geronimo Stilton Series at your local library.

The McElderry Book of Grimms’ Fairy Tales

by: Saviour Pirotta , illustrated by: Emma Chichester Clark - (Simon & Schuster/Margaret K. McElderry, 2006) 128 pages.

First published in England in 2002, this nicely designed collection of 10 Grimms’ tales includes both the well-known — “The Sleeping Beauty” (Briar Rose), “The Golden-Haired Girl in the Tower” (Rapunzel), and “The Magic Gingerbread House” (Hansel and Gretel) — and the less familiar — “Little Mouse and Lazy Cat,” “The Swans and the Brave Princess” (The Six Swans), and “The Magic Bear and the Handsome Prince” (Snow White and Rose Red). Pirotta’s retellings are straightforward and colloquial without soft-pedaling the darker aspects of the stories (evil witches get burned at the stake, trusting rodents get eaten and a handsome prince in the guise of a frog winds up in the bed of a princess).

Find The McElderry Book of Grimms’ Fairy Tales at your local library.

Mightier Than the Sword: World Folktales for Strong Boys

by: Jane Yolen , illustrated by: Raul Colon - (Harcourt, 2003) 128 pages.

Jane Yolen, a prolific, award-winning children’s author, selected and reworked these stories from China, Germany, Ireland, Afghanistan, Finland, Angola and more. This anthology for boys serves to remind us of the virtue of strength without force. Yolen has written a similar anthology for girls, Not One Damsel in Distress: World Folktales for Strong Girls.

Find Mightier Than the Sword: World Folktales for Strong Boys at your local library.

My Curious Uncle Dudley

by: Barry Yourgrau , illustrated by: Tony Auth - (Candlewick Press, 2004) 224 pages.

When 11-year-old Duncan Peckle’s parents take an unexpected vacation, he is left in the temporary care of his curious, definitely eccentric Uncle Dudley. There are adventures ahead that include enchantments, elixirs, and a few amusing goblins.

Find My Curious Uncle Dudley at your local library.

The Tail of Emily Windsnap

by: Liz Kessler , illustrated by: Sarah Gibb - (Orion Children's Books, 2004) 208 pages.

The best compliment for a book is that you hope it will never end. That is exactly the sentiment expressed when a child tells me about reading The Tail of Emily Windsnap. Although Emily lives on a boat, her parents are very wary of her being in the water. Emily discovers that she is half-mermaid and she begins to pursue the mystery of her father’s disappearance. First in a series, your child will occupy many enjoyable hours with this engaging “tail.”

Find The Tail of Emily Windsnap at your local library.

The Trial of Cardigan Jones

by: Tim Egan - (Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004) 32 pages.

Cardigan Jones, clumsy new moose in town, finds himself in the middle of the case of a missing apple pie. As he moves past many misperceptions, all is resolved in court in this Law & Order take-off for kids.

Find The Trial of Cardigan Jones at your local library.

Two Bad Ants

by: Chris Van Allsburg - (Houghton Mifflin, 1988) 32 pages.

A Caldecott Medal author, Van Allsburg takes us into the world of ants. The story begins when a scout brings his queen a strange new treasure, a crystal that appeals to her sweet tooth. The ants want to please “the mother of them all,” so they march off in search of more crystals for their queen. They trek through woods (grass) and survive a thunderstorm (the sound of crickets combined with dropping dew drops and the light of a passing firefly). They climb a mountain (the wall of a house) and go through a tunnel (window) to a glassy curved wall (sugar bowl). In their haste to leave “this unnatural place,” they fail to notice that two have stayed behind to enjoy the feast. The artwork lends itself to the sense of mystery, all bold lines and earth tones. Will they make it home? Read the book and find out.

Find Two Bad Ants at your local library.

The Wonderful Flight to the Mushroom Planet

by: Eleanor Cameron - (Little, Brown and Company, 1956) 226 pages.

An early classic in children’s science fiction, the story concerns two young boys who take off to a “nearby” planet in their homemade spaceship. The tiny planet is in dire trouble, and the boys are recruited to save it from certain galactic extinction. Mr. Bass and the Mushroom People are unforgettable, and the appeal of the adventures is timeless.

Find The Wonderful Flight to the Mushroom Planet at your local library.

by: Chris Van Allsburg - (Houghton Mifflin, 2002) 32 pages.

The hook: With the movie release of Chris Van Allsburg’s book, Zathura, children of all ages will be eager to read the book version. Many Allsburg fans waited a long time to finally find out what happened after Judy and Peter discarded the Jumanji game in the park. We were left with the Budwing brothers as they stumbled upon the mysterious box. When they open the box, they see the Jumanji game board and another space-themed board. This board transports the players from earth to a purple planet called Zathura. Before they know it the boys are swept up in a nail-biting, outer-space adventure. Will they survive a black hole, space ships and robots? This is a must read if you’ve always wondered what happened to Danny and Walter Budwing.

Want to see the movie? The 2005 adaptation is loosely based on the book and offers a cautionary lesson about getting along with your siblings.

Find Zathura at your local library.

Dog Diaries: Secret Writings of the WOOF Society

by: Betsy Byars, Betsy Duffey and Laurie Myers , illustrated by: Erik Brooks - (Henry Holt, 2007) 64 pages.

These short stories show life through a dog’s eyes. Some have historical settings like ancient Egypt, and some explain quirky dog behavior. All are told simply and humorously, as a dog might, so they are easily understood by younger readers.

Perfect for: Kids who like historical fiction.

Find Dog Diaries: Secret Writings of the WOOF Society at your local library.

Great White Sharks

by: Sandra Markle - (Lerner Publishing Group, 2004) 40 pages.

The nonfiction aspect of this text appealed to many students, especially male students, because of the ferocious-looking shark on the cover and the many details on these predators of the deep, including their feasts on other ocean life.

Perfect for: Kids who like nonfiction and animals.

Find Great White Sharks at your local library.

Molly’s Pilgrim

by: Barbara Cohen , illustrated by: Daniel Mark Duffy - (Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books, 1983) 32 pages.

Molly’s Pilgrim is a heart-wrenching story that illustrates the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Molly, a Russian immigrant, finds herself in an American school. Instead of being welcomed as the new student in the class, she is treated as an outcast. Taunting and bullying are two themes explored in this book. The children in Molly’s class learn one of life’s most valuable lessons – pilgrims, like people, come in all denominations, and to this day they are still coming to America in hopes of finding freedom.

Find Molly’s Pilgrim at your local library.

Morning Girl

by: Michael Dorris - (Hyperion Books for Children, 1992) 74 pages.

Simple story, beautifully told, appeals to kids who like thoughtful character-based stories. This lyrical look at pre-Columbian Taino culture stresses the bonds of family, and behavioral changes involved in growing up, and raises the issue of culture differences in a powerful way.

Find Morning Girl at your local library.

Samuel Eaton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Boy

by: Kate Waters , illustrated by: Russ Kendall - (Scholastic, 1993) 40 pages.

Samuel Eaton’s Day, one of the author’s trilogy of books about the Pilgrims, transports the reader back to life during Pilgrim times. Samuel shares the excitement and the hard work that is involved with his first harvest. Samuel quickly discovers how difficult the harvest can be. Though exhausted from the day’s work, Samuel learns a valuable lesson about perseverance and the pride that comes from working together as a family.

Find Samuel Eaton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Boy at your local library.

Sarah Morton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Girl

by: Kate Waters , illustrated by: Russ Kendall - (Scholastic, 1989) 32 pages.

Sarah Morton’s Day is an excellent book about a day in the life of a Pilgrim girl and another book in Kate Water’s Pilgrim trilogy. The story is set in the year 1627. Told in the first person, Sarah takes young readers on a historic field trip back in time. Photographs in the book were taken at the Plymouth Museum, which is a replica of the 1627 settlement. The historic backdrop and the words of 9-year-old Sarah invite children of all ages to experience the Pilgrim way of life. Colonial dress, food, chores, family relations, friendships, religion and play are all part of Sarah’s day.

Find Sarah Morton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Girl at your local library.

Traveling Man: The Journey of Ibn Batutta 1325-1354

by: James Rutherford - (Houghton Mifflin, 2001) 40 pages.

How better to involve your child in geography, history and the art of picture books than through the pages of a masterfully told story about one of the world’s most famous travelers? Ibn Batutta’s journey represents one of the first travel diaries we have; author/artist Rutherford takes young readers along on this trip through space and time.

Find Traveling Man: The Journey of Ibn Batutta 1325-1354 at your local library.

Freddy the Detective

by: Walter R. Brooks , illustrated by: Kurt Wiese - (Alfred A. Knopf, 1932) 272 pages.

Originally published in 1932, Freddy the Detective is an overlooked classic. Freddy is a pig who finds his true calling when he finds a copy of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes in the barn one day. The witty and still very fresh vocabulary in which Freddy expresses himself is just delightful!

Perfect for: Kids who like mysteries.

Find Freddy the Detective at your local library.

Lizard Music

by: Daniel Manus Pinkwater - (Dodd, Mead, 1976) 144 pages.

Eleven-year-old Victor is up way past bedtime when he sees something very unusual on television: a band of giant lizards performing wild music! Night after night, Victor watches this same strange yet addictive show…that apparently doesn’t even exist.

Find Lizard Music at your local library.

Shredderman: Secret Identity

by: Wendelin Van Draanen , illustrated by: Brian Briggs - (Random House, 2004) 144 pages.

Nolan is tired of Bubba Bixby’s bullying! When the kids receive an assignment to create a newspaper expose, Nolan thinks that this is the perfect chance to truly expose Bubba. After gathering some very compromising information, Nolan creates shredderman.com, a Web site that will shield his identity while fighting back against Bubba’s tyranny.

Find Shredderman: Secret Identity at your local library.

The Case of the Sneaky Snowman

by: Carolyn Keene , illustrated by: Macky Pamintuan - (Aladdin, 2006) 96 pages.

Nancy Drew continues to march into the 21st century with its ubiquitously pen-named writer, Carolyn Keene. In this fifth book in the new Nancy series, “Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew,” a mystery unfolds in a wintry setting. After pretending to read her hot chocolate marshmallows to predict the future, Nancy’s friend Deirdre is surprised when her predictions begin to come true! Classic Nancy Drew sleuthing ensues and makes for a perfect, cozy winter’s night read.

Find The Case of the Sneaky Snowman at your local library.

Jan Brett’s Christmas Treasury

by: Jan Brett - (Putnam Juvenile, 2001) 256 pages.

This beautiful Jan Brett collection features some of her best winter and Christmas stories. Some of the titles included in the treasury are “The Mitten” and “Christmas Trolls.” Jan Brett’s signature illustrations adorn each story, filling it with bright, festive colors.

Perfect for: Kids who like holidays.

Find Jan Brett’s Christmas Treasury at your local library.

Latkes, Latkes, Good to Eat: A Chanukah Story

by: Naomi Howland - (Clarion Books, 1999) 32 pages.

Sadie’s kindness is rewarded when an old woman gives her a magical frying pan. When magic words are spoken, the pan fills with delicious latkes. Unfortunately, trouble occurs when Sadie leaves the pan in the hands of her younger brothers.

Find Latkes, Latkes, Good to Eat: A Chanukah Story at your local library.

Winter of the Ice Wizard

by: Mary Pope Osborne - (Random House, 2004) 128 pages.

If you are a fan of the Magic Tree House series, you are sure to love Mary Pope Osborne’s next adventure into the magical frozen land of the Ice Wizard. Jack and Annie are summoned by their friends from Camelot — Teddy and Kathleen — to help solve the mystery of the disappearance of Merlin and Morgan Le Fay. The team is equipped with only two things to help them: a mysterious rhyme from the Ice Wizard and a magical rope. Will they find Merlin and Morgan Le Fay? Are you brave enough to travel along?

Find Winter of the Ice Wizard at your local library.

Babymouse: Camp Babymouse

by: Jennifer L. Holm & Matthew Holm - (Random House, 2007) 96 pages.

The hook: The sixth installment of the Babymouse series finds our heroine at summer camp. She doesn’t like the great outdoors, but that fact shouldn’t get in the way of her having fun, right? Babymouse has her usual daydreams of how she’ll be the best camper around, but all she finds is trouble. Babymouse’s cabin-mates, the Buttercups, soon become frustrated with her shenanigans, as she racks up nothing but demerits for her team. The illustrations are as fun and humorous as ever, in the familiar black, white and pink. Graphic novels are incredibly popular with tweens and teens, so it follows that younger kids want them as well. And those for the very young — especially for young girls — are few and far between, but gaining a foothold. Here is a well-established series that fills that void with a spirited, likable, adventurous character.

Perfect for: Kids who like humor stories.

Find our favorites at your local library: Camp Babymouse , Queen of the World , Puppy Love , The Musical .

Danny: The Champion of the World

by: Roald Dahl , illustrated by: Quentin Blake - (Knopf/Random House, 1975) 224 pages.

Kids who loved the recent movie version of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will surely agree that Danny: Champion of the World is fabulous! Danny is a boy who has a great life with his father. Danny thinks he knows everything there is to know about his dad, until one day he learns about his father’s secret life. Danny’s dad is a poacher. If you want to know what a poacher does, and you want to laugh your way through Danny and his father’s dealings with a bad neighbor and pheasants, you must devour this hilarious book.

Find Danny: The Champion of the World at your local library.

Doctor De Soto

by: William Steig - (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1990) 32 pages.

A very cheerful story about a mouse-dentist who treats mammals bigger than himself, wearing rubbers to keep his feet dry when he’s in their mouths. Steig’s cartoony color illustrations make up the bulk of the book, and they are nothing short of urbane and funny. The climax comes when a dapperly dressed but hungry fox comes for a new gold tooth, and the quick-witted dentist saves himself from ingestion by means of his professional skills. 32 pages.

Find Doctor De Soto at your local library.

Runny Babbit: A Billy Sook

by: Shel Silverstein - (HarperCollins Children's Books, 2005) 96 pages.

Nonsensical word play will entice readers to try reading this poetry aloud. A simple switch in the beginning letters of certain words makes language fun and the resulting sounds smile-crackingly funny.

Find Runny Babbit: A Billy Sook at your local library.

Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger

by: Louis Sachar - (Morrow Junior Books, 1995) 169 pages.

Surely, Wayside School was already strange enough. The builders built a 30-story school sideways with the rooms piled one on top of another – except for the 19th floor where Miss Zarves teaches class. There is no 19th floor, and there is no Miss Zarves. Nevertheless, there is a 13th floor, where nice Mrs. Jewls presides over her eccentric pupils. Mrs. Jewls, however, takes a maternity leave. Before she returns with her little stranger, Wayside School gets a little stranger. While reading this ridiculously funny book, children will not only be laughing, they will be learning.

Find Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger at your local library.

The Worst Band in the Universe

by: Graeme Base - (Harry N. Abrams, 1999) 48 pages.

Alien fantasies come and go, but this one has focus. Base has created a universe where music, or the lack thereof, separates the planets and gives them their distinct personalities. It’s all about freedom of musical expression, as Sprocc, a young Splingtwanger-player, enters the annual competition for Worst Band in the Universe, a true award of honor. Base’s rhyming verse is delicious fun, and there is the added bonus of a CD of intergalactic songs, composed and performed by the author himself. This is a gift of cosmic proportions and hours of fun.

Find The Worst Band in the Universe at your local library.

The Dog That Stole Home

by: Matt Christopher - (Little, Brown, 1996) 42 pages.

Mike owes his success in baseball to his advisor, his dog Harry. It turns out that Harry is a great base coach. Sports-minded children will love this book as well as The Dog That Pitched a No-Hitter and The Dog That Stole Football Plays and more by the same author.

Perfect for: Kids who like sports.

Find The Dog That Stole Home at your local library.

Girl Wonder: A Baseball Story in Nine Innings

by: Deborah Hopkinson , illustrated by: Terry Widener - (Atheneum, 2003) 40 pages.

This nine-part story was inspired by the life of Alta Weiss, a girl who pitched for a semi-pro men’s baseball team in 1907. Alta has a killer fastball and a hot glove that earn her the nickname “Girl Wonder.” When Alta finishes her pitching career she heads to medical school, the only woman in her graduating class. A chronology of the highlights of women in baseball concludes the book. It only took 108 years and a lawsuit for girls to get to play Little League and Hopkinson honors all the women along the way who insisted that a woman’s place was on the field.

Find Girl Wonder: A Baseball Story in Nine Innings at your local library.

Yang the Youngest and His Terrible Ear

by: Lensey Namioka - (Joy Street Books, 1992) 144 pages.

Yingtao is the only one in his family with no musical talent. His father, however, insists that he continues to play the violin. How will he survive daily music lessons and recitals when all he really wants to do is play baseball, his true, natural talent?

Perfect for: Kids who like music.

Find Yang the Youngest and His Terrible Ear at your local library.

Are We There Yet?

by: Alison Lester - (Kane/Miller Book Publishers, 2005) 32 pages.

Alison Lester, an Australian-born author and illustrator, has written a lovely introduction to Australia for young readers. Through the eyes of 8-year-old Grace, we tag along for a six-month journey around Australia with her family.

Perfect for: Kids who like to learn about cultures.

Find Are We There Yet? at your local library.

Because of Winn-Dixie

by: Kate DiCamillo - (Candlewick, 2000) 182 pages.

The hook: Because of a hysterical encounter with Winn-Dixie, a stray but lovable dog, India Opal’s life changes forever. Opal is forced to deal with the absence of her mother and a father who is absorbed in his work. One day she stumbles upon a stray dog in the Winn-Dixie grocery and it’s love at first sight. Opal adopts the dog and he helps her make friends with people that the town-folks have labeled as strange and different. This is a beautiful story about friendship, forgiveness, and tolerance.

Want to see the movie? Check out the family-friendly 2005 adaptation.

Find Because of Winn-Dixie at your local library.

The Conquerors

by: David McKee - (Handprint Books, 2004) 32 pages.

Imagine an army that is treated so well by the country it invades that it loses its will to conquer. This one deserves a place alongside Seuss’s The Butter Battle Book. It is the kind of well told story that parents can refer back to during difficult conversations for years. The artwork is warm and subtle and the message is timeless: Love is always more fun than war.

Find The Conquerors at your local library.

Dare to Dream!

by: Carl Sommer , illustrated by: Jorge Martinez, Greg Budwine, and Kennon James - (Advance Publishing, 2007) 48 pages.

By listening to stories told by his father and grandparents, a young boy learns how choices can lead to overcoming adversity. The lives of Abraham Lincoln, George Washington Carver, Ben Franklin and Helen Keller are highlighted.

Find Dare to Dream! at your local library.

Dream: A Tale of Wonder, Wisdom & Wishes

by: Susan V. Bosak - (TCP Press, 2004) 40 pages.

Children are whisked away on a vibrant journey of hopes and dreams. The book’s message, to embrace your dreams, is told through poetic verse and the beautiful artwork of 15 celebrated illustrators.

Find Dream: A Tale of Wonder, Wisdom & Wishes at your local library.

The Golden Dream of Carlo Chuchio

by: Lloyd Alexander - (Henry Holt & Company, 2007) 306 pages.

This book is the author’s last, a rousing, delightful adventure. There’s a fair amount of violence here, some rather brutal, though none graphically described. Many deaths occur by a variety of weapons and methods, and a major character is beaten unconscious. Families can talk about the popular literary theme of setting out into the world to find one’s fortune. Do people really do that? Do you expect to one day? Is there a modern equivalent that, perhaps, involves less violence?

Find The Golden Dream of Carlo Chuchio at your local library.

Hachiko Waits

by: Leslea Newman , illustrated by: Machiyo Kodaira - (Henry Holt, 2004) 96 pages.

This Japanese story of a dog whose devotion inspired a nation is an ideal bridge from picture books to chapter books. Short illustrated chapters, author’s notes, and a glossary honor a faithful Akita that met the commuter train from Shibuya Station every afternoon for 10 years, patiently waiting for a master who never returned. Newman’s touching story can’t be read or heard without tears and a true understanding of the word ‘loyalty’.

Find Hachiko Waits at your local library.

Humphrey the Lost Whale: A True Story

by: Wendy Tokuda & Richard Hall , illustrated by: Hanako Wakiyama - (Heian International, 1986) 32 pages.

This is based on the journey of a California humpback whale, “wrong way” Humphrey, who finds his way back to the sea with the help of many people.

Find Humphrey the Lost Whale: A True Story at your local library.

Judy Moody Was in a Mood

by: Megan McDonald - (Candlewick, 2000) 176 pages.

Yes, Judy is a third-grade girl but she is very much the tomboy and boys love this series as much as girls. The series does a great job of captivating unmotivated readers who are making the transition into chapter books. Children will relate to Judy’s constant dilemmas and will laugh their way through the book as Judy comes up with the most intriguing solutions to problems such as having to sit next to a kid who eats paste and a toad that pees on her!

Find our favorites at your local library: Judy Moody Was in a Mood , Judy Moody Gets Famous! , Judy Moody Saves the World!

The Penguin’s Peril: Taylor-Made Tales #4

by: Ellen Miles - (Scholastic, 2007) 110 pages.

Jason’s teacher, Mr. Taylor, loves a challenge. Give him five objects and he’ll work them all into a story of his own creation. When Jason gives Mr. Taylor the “ultimate challenge” list — a penguin, a polar bear, a cactus, quicksand and a baseball — he enthralls the class with an arctic adventure. Meanwhile, in Jason’s day-to-day life, he has to take flak from his classmates when they find out that he loves to cook. And he just can’t seem to convince his chef dad to let him help out at the family restaurant. Both stories end happily — especially when Jason’s dad and classmates get a taste of his signature sandwich, the Amazin’ Jason. The Penguin’s Peril is a testament to the power of storytelling and will inspire young readers to be true to themselves.

Perfect for: Kids who like adventure stories.

Find The Penguin’s Peril: Taylor-Made Tales #4 at your local library.

Ramona the Pest

by: Beverly Cleary , illustrated by: Tracy Dockray - (William Morrow and Company, 1968) 208 pages.

Ramona the Pest is one of Beverly Cleary’s most iconic of her classic stories about the feisty Ramona. Children are sure to love hearing about Ramona’s troubles in Miss Binney’s kindergarten. Ramona fans will also enjoy Beezus and Ramona and Ramona Quimby, Age 8 .

Perfect for: Inventive kids with creative ideas to cure boredom and update old rules.

Find Ramona the Pest at your local library.

Letters from Rapunzel

by: Sara Lewis Holmes - (HarperCollins, 2007) 184 pages.

This is a bittersweet and uplifting story of a young girl coping with the fact that her father is hospitalized for clinical depression. “Rapunzel” (you don’t learn her real name until the end of the book) comes home one day to find the lights off and her father curled up in his favorite red chair, crying. Soon he’s in a mental institution and her mother refuses to talk about it. By chance, she finds a letter in her father’s chair addressed to a post office box. She writes to this post office box, hoping that the person her father was writing to will help her understand what is happening. Told through her letters, this novel is poignant and emotionally raw. “Rapunzel” is the type of character you immediately bring into your heart. Her humor, courage and intelligence will resonate with the reader.

Find Letters from Rapunzel at your local library.

by: Jerry Spinelli - (Joanna Cotler Books, 2002) 218 pages.

It’s moving, funny, lyrical and has powerful appeal. There is so much to discuss here that a family, or a class, could spend days talking it over, which is why it is already a favorite with discussion groups. Two of the biggest topics are what it means to be human and what it means to grow up. Try combining it with a movie about growing up, such as Wide Awake , or one about not growing up, such as Peter Pan .

Find Loser at your local library.

Paint the Wind

by: Pam Munoz Ryan - (Scholastic Press, 2007) 327 pages.

Uniquely told by weaving together the adventures of 11-year-old Maya with those of Artemisia, a wild horse in the remote Wyoming wilderness, this is a beautiful coming-of-age story about relationships and making tough decisions. With the death of her grandmother, Maya is thrust into a totally foreign lifestyle. Accustomed to a rigid and formal urban household, Maya suddenly finds herself on a rural ranch surrounded by loving and caring people. Artemisia, who runs in a herd near Maya’s new home, is also forced into a new situation when a horse round-up separates her from the rest of her herd. Discovering one another, the two develop a bond that will be tested under severe conditions. The addition of a glossary and a list of websites dealing with the subject of wild horses in America make this a must-read for any horse lover.

Perfect for: Kids who love horses.

Find Paint the Wind at your local library.

Please Write in This Book

by: Mary Amato , illustrated by: Eric Brace - (Holiday House, 2006) 97 pages.

Ms. Wurtz hides a book in the writer’s corner, inviting her students to write on its blank pages. Conversations, pictures, charts and stories find their way into it.

Find Please Write in This Book at your local library.

The Quiltmaker’s Gift

by: Jeff Brumbeau , illustrated by: Gail de Marcken - (Scholastic Press, 2000) 56 pages.

This beautifully written and illustrated book will appeal to a wide range of ages. Its story of materialism verses charity addresses the value of giving and encourages children to reach out to help others. The story of a greedy king and the lesson he learns helps children get perspective on what is important.

Find The Quiltmaker’s Gift at your local library.

The Quiltmaker’s Journey

by: Jeff Brumbeau , illustrated by: Gail de Marcken - (Orchard Books, 2005) 56 pages.

A prequel to The Quiltmaker’s Gift. The vivid, intricately designed watercolor illustrations add drama and life to the story of a young wealthy child who, one night, steps out of a walled city to find the world beyond. She becomes a quiltmaker after her elders reject her idea of helping the needy. Another poignant message for children of all ages.

Find The Quiltmaker’s Journey at your local library.

The Rag Coat

by: Lauren Mills - (Little, Brown Young Readers, 1991) 32 pages.

This is a heartwarming story of how a community comes together to help Minna, a little girl who so badly wants to attend school, but has no coat. The story deals with death and poverty in a real and positive way with a loving solution. It’s a sweet, sober tale about love and goodwill.

Find The Rag Coat at your local library.

Thunder Rose

by: Jerdine Nolen , illustrated by: Kadir Nelson - (Harcourt Brace, 2003) 32 pages.

Nolen and Nelson give us a spunky cowgirl heroine of the West who names herself Thunder Rose. Rose is resourceful and fearless, and no challenge defeats her, not stampeding cattle, drought, tornadoes, hooligans nor desperadoes. With a sweet disposition, sassy pigtails and a ‘can do’ attitude, Rose’s story stretches both the imagination and the vocabulary.

Find Thunder Rose at your local library.

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-six Women Who Changed the World

by: Cynthia Chin-Lee , illustrated by: Megan Halsey and Sean Addy - (Charlesbridge Publishing, 2005) 32 pages.

The author creates an alphabet book using the first names of the 26 women who have made impressive contributions to the world. The women came from different ethnic groups and countries.

Perfect for: Kids who like to read about real people.

Find Amelia to Zora: Twenty-six Women Who Changed the World at your local library.

Author: A True Story

by: Helen Lester - (Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books, 1997) 32 pages.

Author Helen Lester writes a humorous tale about her life from age three to adulthood. She describes how she became a writer, citing her achievements and challenges, including overcoming dyslexia, along the way. This cheerful book will inspire the writer within your child.

Find Author: A True Story at your local library.

Bill Peet: An Autobiography

by: Bill Peet - (Houghton Mifflin Children's Books, 1989) 189 pages.

Bill Peet, a former Disney illustrator, shares his life story in this book. Written as a simple children’s story, this irresistible autobiography boasts lots of funny drawings, including favorite Disney characters.

Find Bill Peet: An Autobiography at your local library.

Clean Sea: Story of Rachel Carson

by: Carol Hilgartner Schlank and Barbara Metzger , illustrated by: David Katz - (Cascade Pass, 1995) 38 pages.

Rachel Carson has long been considered the original environmentalist. Her publication of Silent Spring in the 1960s was the impetus for President Kennedy to call for a scientific study of the questions she raised about the environment. Here now we have an accessible, empowering biography of this unsung heroine for boys and girls that care about the environment. Included are several lesson plans, as well as recommended reading on steps to save the environment. A DVD entitled Cartoon Sea stresses the importance of keeping oceans free from pollution.

Find Clean Sea: Story of Rachel Carson at your local library.

Houdini: World’s Greatest Mystery Man and Escape King

by: Kathleen Krull , illustrated by: Eric Velasquez - (Walker and Company, 2005) 28 pages.

In this picture book biography of the magician Harry Houdini (born Erik Weiss), the author emphasizes the qualities of perseverance, dedication and a commitment to self-improvement that made Houdini so successful. Even as a young boy he was performing a trapeze act in his backyard for paying audiences, billing himself as “Prince of the Air.” Interspersed throughout the book are presentations of his most famous and amazing performances, narrated by a costumed master of ceremonies with the readers cast as audience members. This would be the perfect book for kids fascinated by all things magical.

Find Houdini: World’s Greatest Mystery Man and Escape King at your local library.

Leonardo da Vinci

by: Diane Stanley - (Morrow Junior Books, 1996) 44 pages.

The picture-book format and outstanding illustrations make it highly appealing for children. The text is friendly and loaded with interesting details about the subject.

Find Leonardo da Vinci at your local library.

Reaching for the Moon

by: Buzz Aldrin , illustrated by: Wendell Minor - (HarperCollins, 2005) 40 pages.

Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, writes this autobiographical work as page-long vignettes of highlights from his life. He writes about how he got his unusual nickname (from his sister), his favorite movie hero (the Lone Ranger), how he almost drowned one summer, his military life, and his training and missions as an astronaut. The beautiful paintings that illustrate the book add to the appeal, especially the images of Aldrin’s space flights. Aldrin closes his book with an inspirational message to young readers: “If you set your sights high, you may accomplish more than you ever dreamed was possible.” This would be the perfect choice for aspiring young astronauts.

Find Reaching for the Moon at your local library.

So You Want to Be an Explorer?

by: Judith St. George , illustrated by: David Small - (Philomel, 2005) 56 pages.

From Buzz Aldrin to Charles Yeager, Caldecott award winners Judith St. George and David Small take us on a fun romp through the excellent discoveries (and great mishaps) of the great and infamous explorers of the world.

Find So You Want to Be an Explorer? at your local library.

The Tree of Life: A Book Depicting the Life of Charles Darwin: Naturalist, Geologist & Thinker

by: Peter Sis - (Farrar Straus & Giroux, 2003) 32 pages.

For just the right child between the ages of 8 and 12 this book will be a treasure trove, but many children may need a bit of parental help to make sense of the book’s design and give a context for the bountiful amount of information. Some of the exquisitely drawn illustrations are small and subtle in meaning, and the typeface used in the illustrations could be challenging for young readers as well. The subject matter of the biography will be of interest to adult as well as child readers, and this book might best be enjoyed in a joint first reading.

Find The Tree of Life: A Book Depicting the Life of Charles Darwin: Naturalist, Geologist & Thinker at your local library.

Where Was Patrick Henry on the 29th of May?

by: Jean Fritz , illustrated by: Margot Tomes - (Penguin Putnam, 1975) 48 pages.

This is a fast-paced account of one of America’s most influential statesmen. Patrick Henry’s childhood and career are described in simple sentences, using a clever plot device (the date in the title); both the black-and-white and color illustrations are very simple.

Find Where Was Patrick Henry on the 29th of May? at your local library.

Who Was Harry Houdini?

by: Tui Sutherland , illustrated by: John O'Brien - (Grosset & Dunlap, 2002) 112 pages.

This is an excellent series of biographies and includes books on Benjamin Franklin, Harriet Tubman and Leonardo da Vinci. Written in a fun, conversational style that grabs even the most reluctant reader!

Find Who Was Harry Houdini? at your local library.

Ice-Cream Cones for Sale

by: Elaine Greenstein - (Arthur A. Levine Books, 2003) 32 pages.

In spring our thoughts turn to flowers, baseball, and ICE CREAM! With winter’s chill a memory, the lines at the local Dairy Queen appear over night and everyone is ready for that first, delicious chocolate-dipped ice cream cone. In an excellent informational book, Greenstein uses careful research to answer the question, “Who was that sainted person who invented the ice cream cone?” We know ice cream cones first appeared nationally at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904. But there were over fifty ice cream sellers and dozens of waffle makers, so who put the two together? Five men and one woman claim they were the first to combine tasty waffles, shaped into a cone, with yummy ice cream. But the frozen delight honor goes to Italo Marchiony, an Italian immigrant who was selling ice cream cones from a push cart on the streets of New York in 1895. No one knows for sure how he came up with the idea of an edible cone to replace glass dishes, but it’s a mystery worth pondering, while licking that perfect ice cream cone, of course.

Find Ice-Cream Cones for Sale at your local library.

So You Want to Be President?

by: Judith St. George , illustrated by: David Small - (Philomel Books, 2000) 56 pages.

Books about the presidents are usually boring, but not this one. This is a lighthearted look at the presidency, including the ages, looks, backgrounds, occupations, pets, favorite sports and personalities of the men who’ve lived in the White House. St. George outlines the positive points about being president (big house with its own swimming pool, bowling alley and movie theater) and negative points (having to dress up, never get to go anywhere alone and lots of homework). David Small’s cartoon-style illustrations add to the fun. The book concludes with the oath of office, and there is an appended list of brief biographical sketches of each of the presidents. This would be a timely read with the presidential race that’s already beginning.

Perfect for: Kids who like history.

Find So You Want to Be President? at your local library.

What If You Met a Pirate?

by: Jan Adkins - (Roaring Brook Press, 2004) 32 pages.

Every pirate myth and fact is chronicled in detail in Adkins’ meticulously illustrated informational text. Real pirates weren’t flashy dressers, seldom carried pistols, swords, or cutlasses, did wear earrings, and were experts with a needle and thread. Furthermore, rats and lice and the threat of a bath were greater enemies than the British Navy. Readers will learn about grog, hardtack, buccaneers, the dead man’s chest, and who Blackbeard was in this outstanding book that really is a treasure.

Find What If You Met a Pirate? at your local library.

Easy to Be Green: Simple Activities You Can Do to Save the Earth

by: Ellie O'Ryan , illustrated by: Ivanke & Lola - (Simon Scribbles, 2009) 32 pages.

What can kids do to protect the environment? A lot! Easy to Be Green is filled with simple eco-friendly tips and activities children can try at home. A perfect way to make the concept of green living accessible and fun.

Perfect for: Kids who like science and nature.

Find Easy to Be Green: Simple Activities You Can Do to Save the Earth at your local library.

Garbage and Recycling (Young Discoverers: Environmental Facts and Experiments)

by: Rosie Harlow and Sally Morgan - (Kingfisher, 1995) 32 pages.

Part of Kingfisher’s wonderful Young Discoverers series, Garbage and Recycling illustrates the difference between biodegradable and nonbiodegradable garbage. Explanations of how glass, metal and wool can be easily recycled; “how can I help?” sections; and lots of tips will inspire your child to be a young environmentalist who wants to recycle at home.

Find Garbage and Recycling (Young Discoverers: Environmental Facts and Experiments) at your local library.

Living Color

by: Steve Jenkins - (Houghton Mifflin, 2007) 32 pages.

This book examines how the amazing range of colors in the animal world works to help animals survive in their natural habitats. Animals use color to attract a mate, lure prey, camouflage themselves or startle enemies. Organized by colors, the book is illustrated by Jenkins’ signature torn- and cut-paper illustrations of each animal, with a short paragraph explaining how color works for that species. Additional information about animal coloration and the particular species pictured is found at the end of the book. This book is a visual treat, as well as fascinating reading for young naturalists.

Find Living Color at your local library.

Polar Bears and the Arctic (Magic Tree House Research Guides)

by: Mary Pope Osborne - (Random House, 2007) 119 pages.

In this nonfiction companion to Polar Bears Past Bedtime, the Magic Tree House characters Jack and Annie take their readers on a chilly journey to the Arctic as they find out what it’s really like to live there. The familiar twosome cover a lot of ground – landscape, animals, the lives and cultures of native people, and the effects of global warming. The style — narrative with a healthy smattering of illustrations, photos and weird facts — will easily hold a young reader’s attention.

Find Polar Bears and the Arctic (Magic Tree House Research Guides) at your local library.

by: Seymour Simon - (Morrow Junior Books, 1989) 32 pages.

Brilliant full-color photographs of thunderstorms, hailstorms, tornadoes and hurricanes accompany the factual text of this beautiful informational book. Simon carefully explains how storms form and describes the havoc they wreak on humans who are still fascinated with the power of weather. Simon includes not only what we do know, but also what we don’t, in a book that sheds light on all those mysterious symbols, diagrams and maps on the weather channel.

Find Storms at your local library.

365 Ways to Live Green for Kids: Saving the Environment at Home, School, or at Play — Every Day!

by: Sheri Amsel - (Adams Media, 2009) 224 pages.

As more parents realize the importance of teaching their children about green living, the need for everyday, eco-friendly lessons grows. With activities for home and school and during playtime, 365 Ways shows how easy and fun it is to prepare your kids for a better future.

Find 365 Ways to Live Green for Kids: Saving the Environment at Home, School, or at Play — Every Day! at your local library.

The Story of Kwanzaa

by: Donna L. Washington , illustrated by: Stephen Taylor - (HarperTrophy, 1997) 40 pages.

Learn about the origins of Kwanzaa. The seven principles or beliefs of the holiday are explained in detail and accompanied by lovely illustrations. Recipes and crafts ideas are also included.

Find The Story of Kwanzaa at your local library.

Hey Batta Batta Swing! The Wild Old Days of Baseball

by: Sally Cook and James Charlton , illustrated by: Ross MacDonald - (M.K. McElderry Books, 2007) 48 pages.

Who can resist the title of this book? Certainly not young baseball fans who will delight in this comical history of the great American pastime. Readers learn tantalizing tidbits about the history of the game, like the facts that in the early days teams had no specific uniforms and that base running was once a contact sport. The amusing illustrations add to the fun, and colorful baseball slang is defined in page margins.

Find Hey Batta Batta Swing! The Wild Old Days of Baseball at your local library.

Ultimate Chess

by: Jon Tremaine - (Scholastic Inc., 2006) 48 pages.

Opening this 8-by-8-inch book reveals a magnetic chess board on the inside back cover, so all the lessons can be played as they’re read. Forty-seven spiral-bound pages contain valuable lessons: names and images of the playing pieces, the set-up, how each piece moves, castling, how a pawn becomes a queen, check, checkmate, notation (so you can keep track of both players’ moves), relative strength of the pieces, classic game openings, attacks and defenses. Finally all the lessons are put to use in the playing of two complete games. The first is a 20-move game with comments on the reasons for certain moves; next is the analysis of an actual 45-turn game played by two grand masters.

Perfect for: Kids who like sports and games.

Find Ultimate Chess at your local library.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

by: Roald Dahl - (A.A. Knopf, 1964) 180 pages.

The hook: Willie Wonka’s chocolate factory invites five lucky lottery winners to tour the facility and observe its amazing secrets. Four of the visiting children are nasty brats who will get exactly what they deserve. Only Charlie is worthy. Wild, hysterical, irreverent but ethical — it’s a classic modern fable that ridicules greed.

Want to see the movie? Kids may be more drawn to the chaotic, colorful 2005 adaptation starring Johnny Depp, but the original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971), which was written by Dahl himself, is a gentler take that still stands up today.

Find  Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at your local library.

The Nature Treasury: A First Look at the Natural World

by: Lizann Flatt - (Owlkids Books, 2005) 48 pages.

Answering your youngster’s questions about plants, animals, water, and just about anything else having to do with nature is easy with this reference book in hand. Broken up into 22 sections, The Nature Treasury covers topics like “How animals grow,” “Soil up close,” and “What animals eat.” With double-page spreads depicting ecosystems ranging from savannas to tundras, this book will have kids searching the panoramas for the animals that live there. Large labeled ovals with the animals superimposed on them act as guides, so children can scan the scenes to find where the sea stars are hiding in the coral reef or the sidewinder in the desert. Children will be enchanted by the lush illustrations.

Perfect for: Kids who are curious — and parents who don’t know all the answers!

Find The Nature Treasury: A First Look at the Natural World at your local library.

The Magician’s Elephant

by: Kate DiCamillo , illustrated by: Yoko Tanaka - (Candlewick Press, 2009) 224 pages.

Gargoyles, illusionists, an elephant that falls from the sky when a magician’s trick fails, and a 10-year-old orphan comprise the cast of characters for Kate DiCamillo’s novel. Full of magical events and narrated in an equally captivating voice, this tale of hope, darkness, and illusion is brought to life by Yoko Tanaka’s haunting black-and-white artwork. All in all, it would be hard to go wrong with this book. Find The Magician’s Elephant at your local library.

by: Lloyd Alexander - (Puffin, 1963) 240 pages.

In Time Cat , a young boy discovers that his cat, instead of having nine lives, has the ability to travel through time nine times. Thus begins their adventures. One parent writes, “My then-fourth-grade son loved Time Cat. He’s not a reader but couldn’t put this book down.” Find Time Cat at your local library.

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs

by: Judi Barrett , illustrated by: Ron Barrett - (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 1978) 32 pages.

Residents of the remarkable town of Chewandswallow don’t have normal weather like rain, wind, and snow. Instead they get food falling from the sky three times a day, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It might be mashed potatoes, soup, pancakes, or hamburgers! But when the portions start getting larger, the town can’t keep up with the flood of food and something has to be done. Get ready to giggle at the absurd text and detailed illustrations. This 1978 story is a fun read-aloud for all ages and a good challenge for young readers.

Want to see the movie? The 2009 animated film takes the book’s idea of food-filled weather and runs with it.

Perfect for: Kids with a silly sense of humor.

Find Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs at your local library.

Hotel for Dogs

by: Lois Duncan - (Scholastic, 2008) 178 pages.

A whimsical tale about a brother and sister who, out of their love for dogs, turn an abandoned house into a hotel for strays. Find Hotel for Dogs at your local library.

The Stories Julian Tells

by: Ann Cameron - (Random House, 1981) 80 pages.

Julian loves to make up tall tales and make his little brother, Huey, believe them. Each chapter in this wonderful early-reader’s chapter book is an individual story and makes for a great introduction to the concept of short stories in general. The tales are imaginative, fun and a great depiction of a loving family in everyday situations. The bite-size length of the chapters keeps the book from feeling overwhelming for a young reader.

Perfect for: Kids who like classics.

Find The Stories Julian Tells at your local library.

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The 100 Best Books for 3rd Graders Ultimate Guide

If you are looking for an all-inclusive list of the best books for 3rd graders, then you have found it!!

With over 100 individual book titles plus ten huge collections of books, even your most hesitant reader will find something enticing!

I’ve tried to group this book list in the most logical way starting with the best chapter books divided into collections (those with over 20 books), book series, graphic novels, and by author.

So, let’s take a look at the best books for 3rd graders that your students will love!

The Best Chapter Book Collections

The boxcar children.

The Boxcar Children series is a cherished collection of over 150 children’s mystery novels written by the American author Gertrude Chandler Warner. 

The series, which began in 1924, has captivated young readers for generations. 

The Boxcar Children series revolves around the adventures of four orphaned siblings: Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny Alden. 

After the children’s parents die, they initially live with their grandfather, who is a strict and distant figure. 

However, they run away to avoid being separated and find shelter in an abandoned boxcar in the woods. 

They make this boxcar their home, and the series follows their independent and resourceful lives as they solve mysteries and go on various adventures in each book.

This series has been praised for its wholesome storytelling and the positive messages it conveys to young readers and therefore, this set is a good choice to add to your classroom library of books for 3rd graders. 

Magic Tree House

The Magic Tree House series is a beloved collection of over 150 children’s books written by American author Mary Pope Osborne. 

The series began in 1992 and has become a beloved staple of children’s literature. 

The stories follow the adventures of siblings Jack and Annie, who discover a mysterious treehouse filled with books in the woods near their home.

In each book, Jack and Annie are given a mission by Morgan Le Fay, the magical librarian of Camelot, who is also the owner of the treehouse.

These missions often involve traveling to various historical periods and far-off places to solve a problem, find an object, or rescue someone.

Jack, who is the older sibling, is more cautious and bookish. He often serves as the voice of reason during their adventures.

Annie, on the other hand, is more adventurous and impulsive.

She is usually the one to suggest their missions and is quick to embrace the magic of the treehouse.

The series combines elements of fantasy and adventure while introducing young readers to various historical events, cultures, and time periods.

Children of all ages will enjoy these books, but this will be a very popular book series with your third graders because of how these books make history so engaging and fun.

The Babysitters Club

The Baby-Sitters Club (BSC) is a group of four friends who decide to start a babysitting business in the fictional town of Stoneybrook, Connecticut. 

Kristy Thomas is the founder of the BSC, and is known for her leadership skills and no-nonsense attitude.

Claudia Kishi is an artistic and creative member known for her unique fashion sense.

Mary Anne Spier is the shy and responsible secretary of the club, often portrayed as the more cautious member.

Stacey McGill is a fashionable and sophisticated member who moves to Stoneybrook from New York City.

Over time, the club grows to include more members, each with their own unique personality and interests.

Each book, in the series of 131 books, focuses on the individual girls’ experiences, both in their personal lives and as babysitters. 

They encounter various challenges, such as handling difficult kids , dealing with family issues, and navigating the ups and downs of friendship .

This series explores themes of friendship, responsibility, family dynamics, and growing up. 

The 130+ books in this series tackle real-life issues that young readers can relate to, making the stories both entertaining and educational.

Geronimo Stilton

The Geronimo Stilton series is a popular collection of 82 children’s books written by the Italian author Elisabetta Dami under the pseudonym Geronimo Stilton. 

The series, originally published in Italian in 2000, has since been translated into numerous languages and has gained a wide following among young readers. 

These adventure novels are narrated by Geronimo Stilton, a mild-mannered, somewhat timid, and easily frightened little mouse who works as a journalist and editor for the fictional newspaper, “The Rodent’s Gazette.” 

Despite his fears, he often finds himself caught up in exciting adventures, daring escapades, and nail-biting mysteries.

Each book in the series focuses on one of Geronimo’s adventures and many include his family members and good friends. 

It often incorporates educational elements, including wordplay, puzzles, and facts, making it both entertaining and informative for young readers.

The Nancy Drew Mystery Stories is a well-known series of 175 children’s mystery novels created by publisher Edward Stratemeyer and written by various ghostwriters under the pseudonym Carolyn Keene. 

The series features Nancy Drew, a teenage sleuth known for her intelligence, resourcefulness, determination, and sense of justice. 

She is typically accompanied by her loyal friends, Bess Marvin and George Fayne, and occasionally her boyfriend, Ned Nickerson.

Each book in the series presents a different mystery for Nancy to solve including thefts, frauds, and missing persons to more complex crimes. 

Nancy often becomes entangled in these mysteries due to her curiosity or her desire to help someone in need.

Because the series has evolved and adapted over the years to reflect changing times and cultural sensitivities, make sure you know which version you are purchasing.

 For the most age-appropriate choices, I would probably look for the originals. 

​A to Z Mysteries

The A to Z Mysteries are a popular series of 26 children’s mystery books written by Ron Roy and illustrated by John Steven Gurney.

Each book is titled with a letter from the alphabet and focuses on a specific mystery related to something starting with that letter. 

Throughout the series, three young friends, Dink Duncan, Josh Pinto, and Ruth Rose Hathaway use their detective skills, teamwork, and clever thinking to solve a wide variety of mysteries in their hometown of Green Lawn. 

The stories are engaging and designed to be accessible to young readers, with simple language and short chapters.

The “A to Z Mysteries” series is a great choice for children who enjoy mysteries and are transitioning from picture books to chapter books. 

It encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and a love of reading . 

This series of 36 children’s mystery books, written by author David A. Adler, introduces readers to a young girl named Jennifer “Cam” Jansen.

She possesses an incredible photographic memory, which she refers to as her “click.” 

With this remarkable ability, Cam can remember and recall specific details of things she’s seen, which proves to be a valuable asset in solving mysteries. 

She and her friend Eric Shelton find themselves in various mystery-solving adventures throughout the series with Cam’s photographic memory being the key to uncovering clues and solving puzzling situations.

Encyclopedia Brown

This book series is a collection of 29 children’s mystery books written by American author Donald J. Sobol. 

Leroy “Encyclopedia” Brown is a young who sets up his own detective agency and uses his intelligence and deductive skills to solve various cases. 

Each book showcases multiple mysteries, each presented as a short story, that the young sleuth must solve.

The books are designed to encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills as readers try to solve the mysteries alongside Encyclopedia. 

Donald J. Sobol’s clever storytelling and the enduring popularity of the series have made Encyclopedia Brown a classic character in the world of children’s literature.

Flat Stanley

The Flat Stanley series is a collection of 21 children’s books created by author Jeff Brown, and known for its whimsical and imaginative premise.

The central character, Stanley Lambchop, has a unique characteristic: he becomes flat after a bulletin board falls on him while he is sleeping.

Throughout the series, the books combine humor, adventure, and a sense of wonder as Stanley navigates the world in his unique flat form. 

The stories often have underlying themes of friendship, problem-solving, and embracing one’s differences. 

Junie B. Jones

This delightful series of over 30 books written by Barbara Park follows the adventures of Junie B. Jones, a precocious and spirited kindergarten student, as she navigates the ups and downs of school and family life. 

Known for its humorous and relatable storytelling, this series is a favorite among young readers, especially those in the early elementary grades.

Many of the books revolve around Junie B.’s experiences at school, including making friends, dealing with teachers, and facing typical childhood challenges like losing her first tooth or going on field trips.

It’s a great series for children who are transitioning from picture books to chapter books and are looking for entertaining stories that capture the essence of childhood.

The Best Book Series

How to train your dragon.

The “How to Train Your Dragon” book series, written by Cressida Cowell, is a delightful collection of novels that inspired the popular animated film franchise. 

The series follows the adventures of a young Viking named Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III and his journey to become a hero and a dragon trainer.

Here are the How to Train Your Dragon books in order…

• How to Train Your Dragon 
• How to Train Your Dragon: How to Be a Pirate
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Speak Dragonese
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Cheat a Dragon’s Curse
• How to Train Your Dragon: How to Twist a Dragon’s Tale
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: A Hero’s Guide to Deadly Dragons
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Ride a Dragon’s Storm
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Break a Dragon’s Heart
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Steal a Dragon’s Sword
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Seize a Dragon’s Jewel
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Betray a Dragon’s Hero
• ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Fight a Dragon’s Fury
• Little House on the Prairie

A beloved collection of 9 children’s novels written by Laura Ingalls Wilder, and based on her own childhood experiences growing up in the American Midwest during the late 19th century. 

The books offer a captivating and nostalgic look at pioneer life, family, and the challenges faced by early settlers, and they have had a lasting impact on American literature and popular culture. 

Laura Ingalls Wilder’s stories have been adapted into a popular television series, and the books remain a staple in children’s literature, cherished by readers of all ages.

The Little House on the Prairie books in order…

• Little House in the Big Woods
• On the Banks of Plum Creek
• By the Shores of Silver Lake
• The Long Winter
• Little Town on the Prairie
• These Happy Golden Years
• The First Four Years
• Ivy and Bean

The “Ivy and Bean” series is a collection of 12 books written by author Annie Barrows and illustrated by Sophie Blackall. 

This series introduces readers to Ivy, who is quiet, bookish, and loves to read, and her next door neighbor named Bean, who is boisterous and full of energy. 

Initially, they don’t think they can be friends because they are so different, but they eventually discover common ground and form a unique and close-knit friendship.

If you are looking for books for 3rd graders featuring a delightful blend of humor, friendship, and adventure, then this is the series for you!

From breaking records, hunting ghosts, and babysitting woes to dancing, creating their own newspaper, and starting their own summer camp, these two friends are never short on ideas.

​Here is a list of the Ivy and Ben books in order…

• Ivy and Bean and the Ghost That Had to Go
• Ivy and Bean Break the Fossil Record
• Ivy and Bean Take Care of the Babysitter
• Ivy and Bean Bound to Be Bad
• Ivy and Bean Doomed to Dance
• Ivy and Bean What’s the Big Idea?
• Ivy and Bean No News Is Good News
• ​Ivy and Bean Make the Rules
• Ivy and Bean Take the Case
•  Ivy and Bean One Big Happy Family
• Ivy and Bean Get to Work!

The Lemonade War Series

This set of children’s books, written by Jacqueline Davies, is a contemporary series that explores themes of entrepreneurship, sibling relationships, and problem-solving. 

Evan Treski, a 3rd grade student, and his sister Jessie, who is in second grade, find themselves engaged in various entrepreneurial endeavors, often centered around lemonade stands. 

Each book in the series presents a different summer vacation and a new business challenge for Evan and Jessie.

Here is a list of The Lemonade War books in order…

• The Lemonade War
• The Lemonade Crime
• The Bell Bandit
• The Candy Smash
• The Magic Trap
• The Bridge Battle

Sarah, Plain and Tall Saga

This series is a collection of children’s books written by American author Patricia MacLachlan, which revolve around the Witting family and the character Sarah Wheaton.

These books are known for their gentle storytelling, rich characters, and themes of love, family, and the beauty of the natural world.

Sarah, Plain and Tall

​ After advertising for a mail-order bride to help take care of his family and his home, Jacob Whitting and his two children, Anna and Caleb, meet Sarah Wheaton, who moves from Maine to the prairie and slowly builds trust and love within the family.

Sarah begins to miss her coastal home in Maine and longs to visit her family, but Jacob, Anna, and Caleb, who have grown attached to Sarah, must decide whether they can bear to let her go, even temporarily, and whether they can make their home on the prairie a permanent one. 

Caleb’s Story

The third book (set several years after the events of the previous books) shifts its focus to Caleb, the younger of Jacob’s children, who is now a teenager and learning to share his experiences, thoughts, and feelings about life on the prairie and his relationship with his father, sister, and Sarah.

More Perfect Than the Moon

The fourth book focuses specifically on the character of Cassie, a teenager who has discovered a loved for writing poetry and who is learning to use her poems as a way to explore her thoughts and feelings about her family, her parents’ relationship, and her own place in the world.

Grandfather’s Dance

The final book in the series shifts attention to Anna, who is getting ready to be married, but the joy is mingled with sadness as the family has to come to terms with Sarah’s deteriorating health.

Henry Huggins Series

This series is a delightful collection of 6 children’s books written by Beverly Cleary that follow the adventures (and misadventures) of a young boy named Henry Huggins. 

These books are known for their humor, relatable characters, and portrayal of everyday life. 

Henry Huggins

The first book in this series introduces readers to Henry Huggins who, along with his family, friends, and dog, Ribsy, participates in various escapades, from trying to raise money to buy a bicycle to dealing with a mischievous pet.

Henry and Beezus

Henry and his friend Beezus Quimby, who happens to be the older sister of Ramona Quimby, find themselves in various humorous situations as they navigate school, family, and their neighborhood.

Henry and Ribsy

Henry and his best friend, and loyal dog, Ribsy have had lots of adventures together, but when Ribsy gets lost, Henry embarks on a mission to find him, leading to a series of comical and heartwarming events.

Henry and the Paper Route

​ In this installment, Henry takes on the responsibility of a paper route, leading to all sorts of amusing challenges and life lessons as he deals with difficult customers, rival paper carriers, and the ups and downs of his new job.

Henry and the Clubhouse  

Henry and his friends build a clubhouse, which becomes the center of all their imaginative adventures. 

This story is unique because readers get to experience Ribsy’s adventures and challenges, including getting lost in a shopping mall from his canine perspective.

The Ramona Quimby Series

This series by Beverly Cleary is a beloved collection of 8 children’s books that revolve around the adventures, challenges, and growth of Ramona Quimby, a young girl who is known for her spunky and imaginative personality. 

These books are cherished for their relatable characters, humor, and insights into childhood.

Beezus and Ramona

This first book introduces readers to Ramona Quimby and her relationship with her older sister, Beezus (Beatrice), who is often frustrated Ramona’s antics and imaginative behavior. 

Ramona the Pest

In this book, Ramona starts kindergarten, and readers get to experience her adventures (and misadventures) as she navigates the ups and downs of school life including feeling as though her teacher is treats her like a pest.

Ramona the Brave

This book follows Ramona as she continues to grow and face new challenges, including enduring a tumultuous first-grade year with resilience and bravery. 

Ramona and Her Father

​ Ramona faces changes in her family when her father loses his job, and she must come to terms with financial struggles. 

Ramona and Her Mother

In this installment, readers see the challenges Ramona’s mother faces as she returns to work, leaving Ramona to adjust to new routines, responsibilities, and family dynamics. 

Ramona Quimby, Age 8

​This book marks a pivotal year in Ramona’s life as she turns eight years old and gains more independence while also facing new challenges in school and with her friends. 

Ramona Forever

Ramona’s learns valuable lessons about responsibility when her beloved cat, Picky-picky, dies and her Aunt Beatrice gets married.

Ramona’s World

This is the final book in the series, and it follows Ramona as she enters the fourth grade, meets new friends, and begins expanding her world as well as her growing sense of empathy.

My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish Series

This wacky series of children’s books, written by Mo O’Hara, combines humor, adventure, and a touch of the supernatural to create a fun and engaging reading experience for young readers.

When a science experiment goes completely awry, young Tom’s pet goldfish, Frankie, is turned into a zombie goldfish.

My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish

Tom and his best friend, Pradeep, must keep Frankie’s secret while dealing with his newfound abilities, which include hypnotic powers and a craving for brains. 

The SeaQuel

In the second installment, Tom and Pradeep are on a new adventure with Frankie where they are facing evil scientist Mark’s latest creation, a robotic goldfish with a sinister plan.

Fins of Fury

Tom, Pradeep, and Frankie find themselves in a deep-sea mission and a race against time as they chase down Mark and his underwater zombie fish army set on taking over the world’s oceans.

Any Fin is Possible

Tom and Pradeep face must stop a mind-controlling computer game created by Mark in order to save their friends and family from the game’s sinister influence.

Live and Let Swim

The fifth book takes the friends on a wild adventure when they discover that the evil scientist’s latest invention can turn humans into fish. 

Jurassic Carp

Tom and Pradeep find themselves on an unexpected journey when a time-traveling Frankie leads them to the prehistoric era where they encounter dinosaurs and face various challenges to find their way back home.

Books by Author

Judy Blume is a highly acclaimed American author known for her books, primarily aimed at children and young adults, that deal with various aspects of growing up, including friendships, family, puberty, and coming of age. 

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

The first book in the “Fudge” series, it introduces us to the Hatcher family and features the misadventures of Peter Hatcher, a 4th-grade boy, and his mischievous younger brother Fudge, whose antics often cause trouble. 

Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great

The second story in the “Fudge” series focuses on the character Sheila Tubman, who, despite her outward bravado, deals with a lot of fears and insecurities during her stay in Tarrytown.

Peter has to adjust to major changes in his life, including the arrival of a new baby sister, Tootsie, and a move to Princeton, New Jersey with Fudge adding chaos and laughter every step of the way.

Fudge-a-Mania

This book finds the Hatchers vacationing in Maine, where Peter and Fudge encounter new friends and many more hilarious mishaps including a wedding!

Double Fudge

This book brings Peter and Fudge back to New York City, where Fudge becomes obsessed with money and wants to buy the entire world.

Roald Dahl was a renowned British author known for his imaginative and whimsical children’s books. 

His works have captivated readers of all ages with their humor, creativity, and sometimes darkly humorous or macabre themes. 

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Follows the adventures of Charlie Bucket (and a host of other unusual characters) as he tours Willy Wonka’s eccentric chocolate factory.

Tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a young girl with extraordinary abilities, resilience, intelligence and kindness, who must navigate life with her neglectful parents and tyrannical headmistress.

James and the Giant Peach

Follows the fantastical and adventurous journey of a young orphan named James Henry Trotter as he escapes from his miserable life (caused by his two cruel aunts) and embarks on a magical journey inside a giant peach.

The BFG (Big Friendly Giant)

After an unlikely meeting, Sophie and her new friend, the BFG, must learn to work together to stop other, less friendly giants from eating children in this heartwarming tale of friendship, bravery, and the triumph of good over evil. 

Fantastic Mr. Fox

A whimsical and adventurous underdog story about a clever, cunning, and resourceful fox who outwits three cruel farmers dead set on carrying out their cruel plan.

Beverly Cleary

Beverly Cleary is a beloved American author who wrote books known for their relatable characters, humor, and ability to address real-life issues faced by children and adolescents.

And while I’ve already shared the Henry Huggins Series and the Ramona Quimby Series written by Beverly Cleary, I wanted to share a few more favorites that are ideal books for third grade students.

The Mouse and the Motorcycle

In this first book, readers are introduced to the adventures of a young mouse named Ralph who lives in a hotel and befriends a boy named Keith, who also happens to have a toy motorcycle that Ralph learns to ride. 

Runaway Ralph

In this sequel, Ralph decides to leave the hotel and his journey leads him to a summer camp where he meets a lonely boy named Garf who needs Ralph’s help. 

Ralph S. Mouse

In the final book, Ralph ends up in a school and finds himself caught between the world of mice and the world of humans. 

Dear Mr. Henshaw

​ This Newbery medal winning novel tells the story of Leigh Botts, a young boy who corresponds with his favorite author, Mr. Henshaw, through a series of letters which help him overcome the impact of loneliness and divorce in a journey of self-discovery. 

Socks has always been the center of attention in his home with the Bricker family, but everything changes when the new baby arrives.

This touching story explores the dynamics between pets and their human families, particularly in the face of changes and challenges. 

Beverly Cleary’s characters and stories continue to be cherished by generations and her contributions to children’s literature have left a lasting legacy.

Graphic Novel Books

These are the style of books that reluctant readers tend to gravitate toward because they don’t feel as overwhelming as “regular” books.

Instead of pages and pages of text, these books contain engaging illustrations and comical language to keep the interest of your readers.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series

This series a highly popular and humorous collection of middle-grade novels written by American author and cartoonist Jeff Kinney. 

These funny tales are presented in the form of a diary, filled with text and amusing illustrations.

Greg Heffley is starting middle school, and he is not sure he’s up for the challenges he is getting ready to face.

Join Greg and Rowley, along with a host of other entertaining characters as they face older brother problems, summer vacation(s), snowstorms, the awkwardness of adolescence, relationships, a family road trip, breaks from technology, school projects, and home renovations.

Here are the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books in order…

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third Wheel
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Old School
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Double Down
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Meltdown
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep End
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Diper Overlode
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: No Brainer

Every single hilarious book in this series will have your 3rd graders cackling with laughter!

The Captain Underpants Series

The “Captain Underpants” series, written by Dav Pilkey, primarily revolves around George and Harold, two fourth-grade pranksters at Jerome Horwitz Elementary School. 

This particular group of books for 3rd graders is well-known for its engaging blend of humor, action, and occasional potty humor. 

In fact, when George and Harold aren’t hypnotizing their principal or watching talking toilets terrorize their town, they are facing invasions of alien cafeteria ladies, trying to fix science experiments gone awry, and traveling through time to protect the world as they know it.

These ridiculous stories often feature comic book-style illustrations, flip-o-rama pages (where readers can flip back and forth to create simple animation), and jokes that appeal to the sensibilities of young readers.

Boys, in particular, will call these books the “best thing” that has ever happened to literature.

The Captain Underpants books in order…

• The Adventures of Captain Underpants
• Captain Underpants and the Attack of the Talking Toilets
• Captain Underpants and the Invasion of the Incredibly Naughty Cafeteria Ladies from Outer Space (and the Subsequent Assault of the Equally Evil Lunchroom Zombie Nerds)
• Captain Underpants and the Perilous Plot of Professor Poopypants
• Captain Underpants and the Wrath of the Wicked Wedgie Woman
• Captain Underpants and the Big, Bad Battle of the Bionic Booger Boy – Part 1: The Night of the Nasty Nostril Nuggets
• Captain Underpants and the Big, Bad Battle of the Bionic Booger Boy – Part 2: The Revenge of the Ridiculous Robo-Boogers
• Captain Underpants and the Preposterous Plight of the Purple Potty People
• Captain Underpants and the Terrifying Re-Turn of Tippy Tinkletrousers
• Captain Underpants and the Revolting Revenge of the Radioactive Robo-Boxers
• Captain Underpants and the Tyrannical Retaliation of the Turbo Toilet 2000
• Captain Underpants and the Sensational Saga of Sir Stinks-A-Lot

The Notebook of Doom Series

This series of books for 3rd graders follows the adventures of Alexander Bopp, a young boy who moves to the small and seemingly ordinary town of Stermont. 

However, Alexander quickly discovers that Stermont is anything but ordinary. 

In fact, it’s a town filled with bizarre and sometimes terrifying monsters.

When Alexander stumbles upon an unusual notebook, which he names the “Notebook of Doom,” he begins to use the information in the notebook to defeat the monsters haunting the town. 

Armed with the notebook and his resourcefulness, Alexander becomes the town’s unofficial Monster Hunter.

Here are the Notebook of Doom books in order…

• Rise of the Balloon Goons
• Day of the Night Crawlers
• Attack of the Shadow Smashers
• Chomp of the Meat-Eating Vegetables
• Whack of the P-Rex
• Pop of the Bumpy Mummy
• Flurry of the Snombies
• Charge of the Lightning Bugs
• Rumble of the Coaster Ghost
• Snap of the Super-Goop
• Sneeze of the Octo-Schnozz
• March of the Vanderpants
• Battle of the Boss-Monster

Dork Diaries

The “Dork Diaries” series follows Nikki Maxwell’s life as she attends Westchester Country Day, a fictional middle school. 

Nikki often feels like an outsider and uses her diary as a way to cope with the challenges she faces, including dealing with bullies, making friends, and pursuing her passion for art. 

The books are known for their relatable and humorous portrayal of middle school life.

Here are the Dork Diary books in order…

• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life 
• Dork Diaries: Party Time
• Dork Diaries: Pop Star 
• Dork Diaries: Skating Sensation
• Dork Diaries: Dear Dork
• Dork Diaries: Holiday Heartbreak
• Dork Diaries: TV Star
• Dork Diaries: Once Upon a Dork
• Dork Diaries: Drama Queen 
• Dork Diaries: Puppy Love
• ​Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Friendly Frenemy
• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Secret Crush Catastrophe
• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Happy Birthday
• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Best Friend Forever
• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Posh Paris Adventure
• The Bad Guys

A series of 18 children’s graphic novels written and illustrated by Aaron Blabey, and known for its humor, action, and memorable characters. 

This unique series of stories has gained a wide readership and critical acclaim due to its ability to encourage reluctant readers to pick up a book.

The Bad Guys, a group of reformed villians, set out on various missions to help animals in need and right wrongs. 

Their ultimate goal is to change their reputations from being bad guys to good guys, which often leads to comical situations.

Here is a list of The Bad Guys books in order…

• The Bad Guys in Mission Unpluckable
• The Bad Guys in the Furball Strikes Back
• The Bad Guys in Attack of the Zittens
• The Bad Guys in Interstellar Gas
• The Bad Guys in Alien vs Bad Guys
• The Bad Guys in Do-You-Think-He-Saurus?!
• The Bad Guys in Superbad
• The Bad Guys in The Big Bad Wolf
• The Bad Guys in The Baddest Day Ever
• The Bad Guys in Dawn of the Underlord
• The Bad Guys in The One?!
• The Bad Guys Cut to the Chase
• The Bad Guys in They’re Bee-Hind You!
• The Bad Guys in Open Wide and Say Arrrgh!
• The Bad Guys in the Others?!
• The Bad Guys in Let the Games Begin!
• The Bad Guys in Look Who’s Talking

If you want to find a great book for every student who walks into your classroom this school year, then this ultimate guide to books for 3rd graders is what you need.

Today’s children need to have the opportunity to interact with books on their reading level, and there is something for everyone on this list.

Jennifer is a former elementary school teacher (M. Ed.) turned literacy interventionist, blogger, podcaster, TpT author, and homeschooling mom. When she's not with her husband & boys, she's sharing her love for Jesus, designing websites, helping other teachers pursue online businesses, organizing ALL THE THINGS, or watching New Girl. Read More >>

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75 Best Chapter Books for 3rd Graders (8 Year Olds)

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Are you looking for the best chapter books for 3rd graders, 8-year-old boys and girls? I can help you find good books that are at their maturity and reading level and your children will love. This list shares my top recommended books with reviews so you can read more about them. Plus, you can download the most popular books on this list.

I’ve read all the books on this list and update the list every month. Using my background as a teacher, parent, and book reviewer with a Masters in Education, I only recommend excellent books that are on grade level and age-appropriate. Books that kids will love!

Top 11 Books for 3rd Grade Boys and Girls

• Cat Kid Comic Club  by Dav Pilkey (graphic novel)
• A to Z Mysteries: The Absent Author  by Ron Roy
• Dog Man  by Dav Pinkey
• Dragon Kindom of Wrenly  by Jordan Quinn (graphic novel)
• Because of Winn-Dixie  by Kate DiCamillo
• Jada Jones Rock Star  by Kelly Starling Lyons
• The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey
• Zita the Spacegirl  by Ben Hatke (graphic novel)
• Love Puppies: Best Friends Furever  by JaNay Brown Wood
• Cat Ninja  by Matthew Cody (graphic novel)
• Lulu and the Brontosaurus  by Judith Viorst

Kids still need to be read to and hear as much story and vocabulary as possible. This is a great way to spend time together and to read more difficult books. If a book is too tricky, and your child REALLY wants to read, use it for a read aloud at bedtime.

What are the best read aloud books for 3rd graders?

Of course, any book from this list that you read to a child is positive! Here is a list of my favorite  read aloud book titles for 3rd grade.

Here are some tips  for making the most of your read aloud time with your children or students. Yes, these tips apply to parents, grandparents, librarians, and teachers!

Want a free pdf download of the most popular books for 3rd graders? Sign up below.

Are you specifically looking for wholesome books? Try these lists:

Wholesome Beginning Chapter Books for Boys Ages 6 – 9

Wholesome Beginning Chapter Books for Girls Ages 6 – 9

Best Chapter Books for 3rd Graders (8 year olds)

SHOP THIS LIST

Cat Kid Comic Club  by Dav Pilkey GRAPHIC NOVEL / HUMOR A hilarious book about encouraging kids to write their own comics! Cat Kid teaches a class for the tadpoles about writing comic books…which doesn’t go well until the tadpoles get excited about failure sparking lots of writing and drawing.  If you like a lot of silliness (including potty humor) with great messages about writing, creativity, and persistence, read this book next.

Two-Headed Chicken  by Tom Angleberger  FUNNY Hilarious!!  If you like wacky, bizarre humor then this is your next favorite read.  This is a story about the multiverse in which you are a two-headed chicken being chased by a moose…and it’s laugh-out-loud funny. Follow the two-headed chicken through the multiverse, take funny quizzes, meet a fish with deep feelings as well as a lawyer, and learn about so much more!

A to Z Mysteries: The Absent Author  by Ron Roy MYSTERY The A to Z Mysteries series rocks! None of the books need to be read in any particular order, each has a self-contained mystery. I think my kids read most of the books in this series and several more than once. In this story, the famous writer coming to the bookstore doesn’t show up. Dink and his friends, Josh and Ruth Rose, must find out what happened .  BOXED SET

Bad Kitty   by Nick Bruel HUMOR In a word: Hilarious. We all think Bad Kitty is very naughty. And, oh so funny. These chapter books are easy to read and fun to reread.  BOX SET

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

Great Puptective by Alina Tysoe FRIENDSHIP & MYSTERY In a home with a cat and a puppy, the Poppy, the puppy, is determined to be a detective! But Truffles the cat only wants peace and quiet–and to get Poppy in trouble. Readers will love Poppy’s adorable exuberance and laugh at Truffles’s frustration.  Then, when the worst happens and Poppy is gone, Truffles feels guilty (gasp!) for his bad behavior and decides to save his puppy friend using the detective skills he learned from Poppy. Engaging cartoon illustrations, this is sure to be a new favorite series for growing readers.

Star Wars Jedi Academy  by Jeffrey Brown SCI- FI  (series!) Calling all Star Wars fans! Engaging from the first page, this is a relatable graphic novel adventure story about a young boy, Roan, who dreams of becoming a pilot . . . but gets into Jedi school instead. He’s the oldest new student; everyone else started long before him. Roan has ups and downs, as one does at a new school, but he finds his place at the school and new friends. Highly recommended!

Who Would Win? Whale vs. Giant Squid  by Jerry Pallotta, illustrated by Rob Bolster NONFICTION 3rd grade teachers tell me that their students can’t get enough of the Who Would Win? books. (Which just proves that reading comprehension happens in a little harder books if students are motivated!) In this book pitting two ocean carnivores against each other, you’ll learn facts about the sperm whale and the giant squid then read an imagined story where these two creatures face off .   Can you predict who will win?  See all the informational books in the Who Would Win series .

Bunny and Clyde written by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Scott Nash HUMOR In this funny and charming story, Bunny and Clyde (a chipmunk) decide they’re sick of being good…In fact, they want to be rotten. First, they read books to learn how to be bad. They read books like Bad Kitty and Interrupting Chicken. (You’ll laugh at their bad examples. Interrupting is so naughty!) Then, they go on a bad, bad, bad spree. Unfortunately, badness doesn’t work out because, somehow, their attempts always help others. Which makes them so mad! Being bad never was so good.

Planet Omar  by Zanib Mian REALISTIC One of the best things about Omar is his HUGE imagination!  In fact, he faces his new experiences in life with a rich, creative mind filled with dragons, Ferraris, and zombie aliens.  He uses his imagination to deal with moving, starting a new school, making friends, and dealing with racism. I love the playful writing, whimsical illustrations, and rich Pakistani-American culture in this beginning chapter book.

Reading Journal for Kids

102 pages of fun!

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

Dragon Kindom of Wrenly: The Coldfire Curse  by Jordan Quinn FANTASY Book one launches the series with a bang!  When Cinder’s father crashes, it’s clear that he’s sick from the dreaded “cold curse”  so Cinder must ask the king for help. Cinder flies to the castle of the human king and meets a red  dragon  named Ruskin, the pet of the human king. Cinder, Ruskin, and Groth travel to the fairies in order to get the ingredients to cure the curse. But the witch-dragon is NOT pleased with their success. A fast-paced and excellent story with a hook that will keep you reading the series!

Squirlish: The Girl in the Tree  by Ellen Potter , illustrations by Sara Cristofori FAMILY / FRIENDSHIP When a squirrel named Shakespeare finds baby Cordelia, he raises her in his Central Park tree.  Now at age 8, Cordelia leaves the safety of their park home to chase a nut-thieving squirrel…and gets lost! Sweet Cordelia’s attempts to make friends go drastically wrong when she behaves like a squirrel–chasing and chittering. Soon Cordelia knows it’s time to go home. But can the city squirrels show her how to get there? And could she ever make a friend with another human?

Olga and the Smelly Thing From Nowhere  by Elise Gravel HUMOR If you like kooky books, this book fits the bill.  Olga finds an unusual, unknown creature whom she names “MEH” after the sound that it makes.  She uses her  deductive reasoning  to figure out what it is (something new!) and what it likes to eat (olives)! But what will she do when Meh disappears? 

Dragonbreath  by Ursula Vernon HUMOR Hysterical! I couldn’t stop laughing! It’s a fantastic read for 8-year-olds. Danny Dragonbreath is a dragon without dragon fire and good friends who make his life more…complicated but interesting.

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

Zoey and Sassafras Dragons and Marshmallows  #1  by Asia Citro, illustrated by Marion Lindsay SCIENCE & FANTASY This is an entertaining story with the coolest mix of science  and  magic, a diverse main character, and fantastic illustrations that will get kids reading and learning. Zoey, like her mom, can see magical creatures and is tasked to care for any injured creatures that might need help. In this story, she uses her science skills (including research and the scientific method) to figure out how to care for a sick baby dragon.

Ninja Kid: From Nerd to Ninja  by Anh Do ADVENTURE Nelson is a nerdy and likable main character who wakes up on his 10th birthday with perfect vision and… ninja moves! His mum and grandma explain that like his missing fisherman dad before him,  Nelson is the last ninja in the world — and he’s destined to save the world.  He immediately gets to use his powers for good on a field trip when ginormous evil spiders attack the group of kids.

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

Word Travelers and the Taj Mahal Mystery  by Raj Haldar, illustrated by Nehra Rawat MYSTERY / ADVENTURE Best friends Eddie and MJ open a book about words, and they’re magically transported to India.  There, they help a boy solve the clues to find his family’s missing fortune before a bad guy gets it. As they solve the clues, they learn more words with Indian roots — many are from Hindi, like bangle and bungalow, and others are from Sanskrit, like the words jackal and jungle.

Trapped in a Video Game  by Dustin Brady, illustrated by Brady Jessee SCI-FI Gamers and non-gamers alike who love exciting and dangerous stories won’t want to miss this excellent action-packed series.  Jesse’s friend gets an early release of a video game — and it sucks both boys into the game.  Inside the game, they meet a classmate who has been missing for weeks and is now a grown-up man in the game. They’re all trapped with no escape possible.

Ivy Lost and Found  by Cynthia Lord, illustrated by Stephanie Graegin REALISTIC In this heartwarming story about the life of an old doll who gets a new life as a book buddy , Ivy is donated to the Book Buddy’s shelf at the library. A lonely girl named Fern borrows Ivy. Fern needs a friend like Ivy because she feels so many different feelings about her dad’s new family. Then, when Ivy gets left outside in the rain, she has a surprise adventure of her own and makes friends with two other Book Buddies. Eventually, Fern feels better about her new blended family and returns her to the library.

Jop and Blip Wanna Know #1  by Jim Benton STEM / FUNNY If you like kooky stories, playful characters, and random facts, this beginning graphic novel for ages 6 to 10 is a hilarious and informative reading experience.  Jop and Blip ponder topics like farts, words that begin with silent letters, perspective, dragons, and more — and as they discuss, you’ll learn a thing or ten.

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

Stinkbomb and Ketchup-Face and the Badness of Badgers  by John Dougherty FUNNY Hilarious — and  weird and kooky  and very creative! Stinkbomb and his sister, Ketchup-Face think that the badgers (“BAD” is in their name!) stole Stinkbomb’s $20. They embark on the craziest of adventures to get back the $20, including meeting King Toothbrush Weasel who they’ll help to rid the island of the badgers. If you like silly stories, this book is for you!

The Diary of a Wimpy Kid  by Jeff Kinney FUNNY One of the most popular book series ever,  The Diary of a Wimpy Kid , shares the hilarious story of Greg in his own words and drawings.  Life in middle school is not easy. And Greg is here to prove it!  One thing you’ll notice about these books is that kids will read them more than once, which is great if you have them all. (hint, hint)

Unicorn Academy: Sophia and Rainbow   by Julie Skyes, illustrated by Lucy Truman UNICORNS Well-written and charming, this unicorn book series is sure to entice many young readers.  In this story, Sophia arrives at Unicorn Academy and is paired with the lovely Rainbow. But she feels guilty for making a new friend and leaving her best pony, Clover, back at home. On top of that, the unicorns’ magic is wonky because the lake is being poisoned. When someone accuses Sophia, she and her new friends decide to investigate.

Galactic Hot Dogs: Cosmoe’s Wiener Getaway  by Max Brallier, illustrated by Rachel Maguire and Nichole Kelley HUMOR   SCI-FI Non-stop action and danger, potty humor, space adventures, zombie aliens, mutant worm wrestling, a misunderstood evil princess, good friends, video games , and a diabolical, hunting-them-down evil queen.  Not to mention, loads of cartoon illustrations and hilarious writing with a gazillion exclamation marks!!!!

More Good Books for 3rd Graders

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Stink and the Shark Sleepover  by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds REALISTIC BOOK Kids love the Stink stories because they’re so relatable. In this story, Stink gets to sleepover at the aquarium. While he’s there, he learns more about sharks , gets to solve a mystery , learns a ghost story , and has tons of fun.

Princess Evie  by Sarah Kilbridge FANTASY BOOK Before Princess Evie starts a new class at school, she and her magical pony, Willow, and cat, Sparkles, help the fairies on their first day of school. She partners with a new friend to rescue a baby hedgehog. K ids will love the combination of horses, magic, and friendship in a wonderful adventure story.

Notebook of Doom  by Troy Cummings SCARY (ISH) A kid-favorite series that you’ll also love! Alexander discovers his new town is FILLED WITH MONSTERS ! And, he’s right in the middle of everything, especially after he finds an old notebook of drawings and facts about monsters. Fun with an edge of scary.

Zara’s Rules for Record-Breaking Fun  by Hena Khan REALISTIC A new girl named Naomi moves across the street from Zara but  Zara doesn’t like that Naomi’s ideas for fun seem to be more popular than hers.  Then, when Zara starts her Guinness Book record-breaking hula-hooping, Naomi copies her by doing her own baking record-breaking! Luckily, Zara realizes they both can have good ideas and they become good friends.

White Fur Flying  by Patricia MacLachlan REALISTIC Zoe’s family rescues dogs in need. A new family has moved in across the street and Phillip, the boy, has stopped speaking. He doesn’t even want to try. But Zoe’s new rescue dog might just help the boy heal and speak. (Also on:  Best Books About Dogs )

Phoebe and Her Unicorn: A Heavenly Nostrils Chronicle  by Dana Simpson HUMOR / GRAPHIC NOVEL /  UNICORN Sarcastic and hilarious, this is a  laugh-out-loud story  about a precocious young girl and her reluctant unicorn “best friend”.  BOXED SET

The Terrible Two  by Mac Barnett and Jory John, illustrated by Kevin Cornell REALISTIC / FUNNY My 8-year-old daughter read this first and begged me to read it immediately. It’s SO funny! It’s mostly  the hilarious adventure of two pranksters who eventually work together to pull off the biggest prank of all time  — a prank that will ensure they get April Fool’s Day off from school.

My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish  by Mo O’Hara HUMOR Hysterical and totally believable about  what would happen if your goldfish dies and you bring him back to life.  Except now he’s a zombie…one that can mesmerize you with his powerful eyes so you’ll do anything he wants. Aaaah!  BOXED SET

Ranger in Time #1: Rescue on the Oregon Trail   by Kate Messner, illustrated by Kelley McMorris HISTORICAL Ranger, a golden retriever trained for search and rescue, travels back to the Oregon Trail  to help a family in need. It’s an easy chapter book that begins the book series , introducing the ups and downs of traveling on the Oregon Trail. (Also on:  Wholesome Easy Chapter Books for Boys )

Charlotte’s Web  by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams REALISTIC This story is a beautiful tribute to the power of friendship, touching on love and death as well. It’s a classic for a reason and o ne of the best-written children’s books in existence.

Wondrous Rex  by Patricia MacLachlan WHOLESOME / WRITING Maxwell the Magicial brings Grace and her writer aunt Lily his dog Rex to be aunt’s assistant when Aunt Lily and Grace both have writer’s block.  Rex is a kind and magical dog who reads, writes, and gives wonderful wisdom about life and writing . His guidance helps both Lily and Grace grow in confidence, inspiration, and love. Absolutely charming!

The BFG  by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake FANTASY The Big Friendly Giant snatches Sophie and takes her to the Land of Nod with other not-friendly, people-eating giants. Sophie and the BFG plot to stop the mean giants and save the world. The text is filled with lots of creative, made-up words which while fun, can be tricky for some readers.

Doodle Adventures: The Search for Slimy Space Slugs!  by Mike Lowery HUMOR SCI-FI This book not only hooks the reader with its space-adventure plot, but the  hilarious narrator Carl also invites YOU to find the missing priceless artifact requiring bravery, heroism, and drawing.  Yes, drawing. Along the journey to retrieve the artifact from Captain Sleezoog (he’s a slug,) you must do your part. So you’ll make sure (by drawing) that you’ve got a spacesuit, you’ve packed everything you need to bring, the rocket design is perfect plus it has some silly (bandages!?) extras, and lots more as the adventure ensues. It may sound contrived, but it’s a fun, engaging adventure that any kid, artist or not, will love. And there is MORE in the series! Also read  The Pursuit of the Pesky Pizza Pirate!

Dory and the Real True Friend  by Abby Hanlon REALISTIC Dory is one of my favorite book characters because her imagination is THE BEST!  She has three imaginary friends: one monster friend, one fairy godmother that’s actually not a lady, and one bad lady nemesis. I love this story because she meets a real-life friend who understands all about imaginary friends and together, they’re the perfect match. 

Frankie Pickle  by Eric Wight ADVENTURE FUNNY Your kids will totally relate to this imaginative boy whose wild adventures are written in comic form — it’s funny and entertaining!

The Great Shelby Holmes   by Elizabeth Eulberg MYSTERY I loved this  Sherlock Holmes -inspired book because it’s very well written and tells a great story . John Watson and his mom move to Harlem. There, he meets a unique girl named Shelby Holmes who reluctantly allows him to tag along with her as she solves her latest crime — the mystery of who took a posh, show-dog from a classmate’s secure house.

Katie the Catsitter  by Colleen AF Venable, illustrated by Stephanie Yue SUPERHERO If you like mystery, adventure, and CATS , you won’t want to miss this entertaining graphic novel!  Katie desperately wants to join her friends at their summer camp so to earn money, she gets a job for her neighbor Madeline catsitting 217 cats. But, something is VERY weird because these are super-smart cats with destructive behaviors and powerful abilities, not to mention that Katie finds evidence that her neighbor might be the supervillain, Moustress. Then, when the Moustress gets captured, Katie decides she and the cats must take action and save their friend.

STAT: Standing Tall and Talented: Home Court  by Amar’e Stoudemir, illustrated by Tim Jessell SPORTS Based on the real story of Amar’e Stoudemire, this is the story of when he was 11, a skateboarder, a basketball player, and a worker with his dad’s landscape company.  When other kids start trash-talking his friends, he uses his intelligence and basketball skills to find a solution.

The Year of the Book  by Andrea Chang REALISTIC Growing up is challenging and in the first novel,  The Year of the Book ,  Anna turns to books for company while she learns how to make friendships in real life.  The subsequent books in the series are just as realistic and well-written. I highly recommend this series!

The Kicks  by Alex Morgan REALISTIC Finally, a fantastic book (series) for soccer girls! I f you have a soccer player in your house, you’ll want to get your soccer lover this book  –actually, buy her the entire series. Written by Olympic Gold Medalist and U.S. Soccer team member (among other things),  Alex Morgan , these are realistic stories of life, friendship, and playing soccer.

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

Zoo Camp Puzzle  by Gail Herman MYSTERY Ava and Rosie are not excited to move to the zoo for the summer where they notice missing pronghorns and suspicious trucks.  With the help of their brother Ethan, the siblings must figure out what’s happening and how to keep the animals safe.  Throughout the book, you’ll find pages with activities like puzzles and mazes as well as information about the animals at the zoo. You’ll love both the mystery story and the factual sections of information. It’s really well done! Also in the series:  Puppy Rescue Riddle .

The World According to Humphrey   by Betty Birney REALISTIC Class pet, Humphrey, is a hamster who travels to a student’s home on the weekends and has lots of adventures.

Get to Work, Hercules! (Myth-O-Mania)   by Kate McMullan HUMOR / MYTHOLOGY We adore the Myth-O-Mania series. It’s hilarious!  Hades narrates the TRUE stories of the Greek Myths with panache.  (Apparently, his younger brother Zeus is a big fat liar and edited all the myths to make himself look good.) In this story, Hades watches over his young, not-too-smart nephew, Hercules whom Hera has it out for. LOVE it!

Lucy & Andy Neanderthal  by Jeffrey Brown HISTORY / HUMOR / GRAPHIC NOVEL Short funny stories about the life of a Neanderthal family  are intermixed with factual information about the actual history of this time period — hunting practices, size of large cats, that sort of thing — in a graphic novel from the author of the Jedi Academy series perfect for 8-year-olds.

The Perilous Princess Plot (Buckle and Squash)   by Sarah Courtauld HUMOR/FANTASY Very sarcastic and funny humor will keep you entertained throughout this book about  a silly sister obsessed with princes who gets kidnapped  and her more reasonable sister who comes to the rescue.

Dying to Meet You 43 Cemetery Road  by Kate Klise, illustrated by M. Sarah Klise HUMOR The 43 Old Cemetery Road early reader series is a funny and  punny adventure with a kid, a cat, a grumpy ghost , and a really cool writing style in letters, emails, newspaper clippings, jokes, and more. These books are addictive!

The Curious Cat Spy Club  by Linda Joy Singleton MYSTERY What a fantastic new book series — my daughter and I devoured it.  Three kids from seemingly different social circles band together to rescue kittens they find in a dumpster  — then solve the mystery of who would try to kill the kittens.

Diary of a Minecraft Zombie Book 1: A Scare of a Dare  by Herobrine Books SCI-FI Short sentences with witty observations on life from the perspective of a  Minecraft   zombie  will crack you up. I was surprised that this was such an entertaining, funny read. Nothing scary. Just fun. Especially for Minecraft enthusiasts. (These are FREE for Kindle Unlimited subscribers!)

Wedgie & Gizmo  by Suzanne Selfors REALISTIC / FUNNY Dog owners will nod along with the ADHD stream of conscious narration of Wedgie, the barkie dog who LOVES everything. Contrast this with the diabolical plotting narration of the evil genius guinea pig Gizmo who is horrified to be living in a Barbie house instead of his own “habitat.”  Selfors skillfully addresses a family in transition through the humorous lens of its two pets.

Into the Game (Minecraft Woodsword Chronicles)  by Nick Eliopulos MINECRAFT First in one of the BEST Minecraft   book series , this adventure follows five players who are transported inside the game– and it’s real and they’ll have to use all their  survival  and problem-solving skills to stay alive.  BOXED SET of Books 1 – 4 HERE .

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

Squishy Taylor and the Bonus Sisters  by Ailsa Wild, illustrated by Ben Wood REALISTIC Squishy discovers a boy hiding from the police in the basement of her apartment building.  She wants to keep it a secret from her step-sisters but one thing leads to another, and the twins find out. Together, the three help feed the boy until they discover who he really is. Squishy begins to think of her sisters as bonuses, not step-sisters, which makes her feel a lot better about living with them. I really enjoyed this big-hearted mystery

Dolphin Rescue (Animal Planet Adventures #1)  by Catherine Nichols MYSTERY Siblings Maddie and Atticus can’t figure out who is dumping trash everywhere.  And when they rescue a baby dolphin entangled in trash, they know they must get to the bottom of this mystery. Full-color photographs with information about dolphins, marine life, and more add-in bonus  nonfiction information  for readers.

Ellie, Engineer  by Jackson Pearce REALISTIC / STEM Ellie, Engineer  is a  well-written STEM adventure that makes engineering seem enticing and creative ! After a disastrous “french braid machine” tangles her best friend’s hair, Ellie, who already considers herself as an engineer, plans to make her BFF a new birthday present — a dog house. She gets help from a neighbor boy and a group of girls from school who are bitter rivals until Ellie helps them work together. It’s a perfect, pro-STEM story for girls.

The Case of the Claymore Diamond Math Inspectors  by Daniel Kenney and Emily Boever MYSTERY Viva math!  These friends love math and are proud of it  — in fact, they’re sure they can use their math skills to solve crimes. This first mystery is about a jewelry store robbery. And they do solve it by finding clues that the police miss, freeing an innocent man. This is a delightful easy chapter book series.

Rosie Revere and the Raucous Riveters  by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts STEM Andrea Beaty successfully writes her famous main characters of Rosie Revere, Iggy Peck, and Ada Twist into a fun-filled, STEM adventure chapter book. Rosie’s Aunt Rose and her WWII friends, the Raucous Riveters, need Rosie’s help. Their friend  June broke both her arms and she needs an invention so she can paint in the upcoming art contest.  Can Rosie and friends invent something to help June paint with her casts? After one disaster after another, including at the art contest, Rosie continues to persevere and problem-solve to find a solution that will work.

Secret Agent, Jack Stalwart   by Elizabeth Singer Hunt ADVENTURE In this action-packed new series,  nine-year-old secret agent Jack Stalwart travels the globe  in search of his missing older brother Max while solving international crimes for the Global Protection Force.

Nanny Piggins and the Runaway Lion  by R. A. Spratt, illustrated by Dan Santat ADVENTURE This  quirky adventure is about a dad who detests his children  and tries to get rid of them (to Nicaragua in this case) but their amazing nanny (who is a pig) always figures out how to outsmart the dad. I love Nanny Piggins!

The Philly Fake Ballpark Mysteries  by David A. Kelly, illustrated by  Mark Meyers MYSTERY / SPORTS Not only is this a well-written mystery book for 3rd graders, but I also loved how the author included so much history within the  story about two young baseball fans who hope to show fans that the Phillie Phanatic isn’t to blame for their team’s losing streak.

Katerina Ballerina  by Tiler Peck and Kyle Harris, illustrated by Sumiti Collina BALLET An earnest young girl loves ballet, but since her dad can’t afford lessons, she watches YouTube videos and practices in her room. After a disastrous talent shows Katerina’s dad her bravery, Katrina’s dad stretches the budget for lessons. It’s not a great start though– she shows up in red swimming suit and homemade tutu! But she makes a friend who helps her learn ballet terms and adjust to formal classes. As Katrina becomes more serious in her dancing,  a competition reminds Katrina that she needs to balance both working hard and enjoying dancing.

Key Hunters and the Mysterious Moonstone (Key Hunters #1 ) by Eric Luper MYSTERY In this first book for 3rd graders, two friends discover a letter from their favorite librarian saying she’s trapped in a book. They decide to go into a book to rescue her. They arrive in  19th century England to help a detective find a stolen gem.

Never Girls  by Kiki Thorpe FANTASY These friends accidentally travel from England to the Never Land fairy world of Tinker Bell. What adventures they will have?!  BOX SET

KEEP READING

Choose Your Own Adventure Books

Drawing Books

Star Wars Books

Dictionary for Kids

Fidget Toys

Melissa Taylor, MA, is the creator of Imagination Soup. She's a mother, former teacher & literacy trainer, and freelance education writer. She writes Imagination Soup and freelances for publications online and in print, including Penguin Random House's Brightly website, USA Today Health, Adobe Education, Colorado Parent, and Parenting. She is passionate about matching kids with books that they'll love.

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29 Comments

Hi Melissa, This is so helpful. I’m a third grade teacher and am about to have parent-teacher conferences. I’d love to print out the 3rd grade book list. Do you have a printable version? Thank you!!

Yes — I’ll email it to you!

My youngest daughter is turning nine this summer. She still enjoys anything about her last school year. (3rd grade) I thought I would continue that by looking up some books for her to read this summer. This article was very helpful. Thanks.

I’m so happy to hear it!

Hi. Is there a link to a list of these books I can easily print? If not, I will make my own list, but that seems time-consuming if there already is one.

There is not a printable list of all the books.

• Grades 6-12
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28 Chapter Books To Hook Third Graders

Engage and inspire readers with these unforgettable titles.

As third graders develop more advanced reading skills, they unlock a whole new world of chapter books. With higher reading levels comes more opportunity for complex, entertaining stories that will captivate your students. We’ve compiled this list of must-read chapter books for third graders to engage your established readers or encourage those looking to get lost in a good book for the first time. Many of the books are longer with more mature content and honor the significant jump in reading skills from second to third grade. Get ready for intrigue and suspense in these page-turners. At the same time, explore friendship, family, and identity in these realistic stories with characters your students can see themselves in.

1. Dyamonde Daniel series by Nikki Grimes

Dyamonde is a spunky third grader who thinks “being mean is the most uncool thing in the universe.” In these dynamic and compelling chapter books for third graders, award-winning author Nikki Grimes writes stories about the challenges of growing up, like navigating feelings of jealousy, comparison, and trying to fit in. By working through tough situations, Dyamonde learns important life lessons about what it means to do the right thing.

Buy it: Dyamonde Daniel series

2. Stella Diaz series by Angela Dominguez

Readers will delight in the charismatic Stella Diaz. Based on author Angela Dominquez’s own experience as an immigrant in the United States, the series highlights relevant, complex challenges in an engaging narrative. Tackling topics like divorce and bullying, as well as struggling to learn English, these chapter books for third graders are a great choice for your classroom library. Carefully chosen Spanish words also enhance the realistic story.

Buy it: Stella Diaz series

3. Dragons in a Bag series by Zetta Elliot

We can’t get enough of this fantastical series. In the urban backdrop of Brooklyn, 9-year-old Jaxon discovers his so-called grandmother and neighbor is actually a witch, who entrusts him and his friends to help deliver dragons to a new home. Filled with magic and time travel, the series delivers an imaginative plot that still manages to be authentic and relatable.

Buy it: Dragons in a Bag series

4. Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker series by Shelley Johannes

Spunky third grader Beatrice sees things differently. Her challenges trying to fit in with friends at school and finding a place in her family will resonate with readers, while the humorous take will keep them wildly entertained. This quirky and endearing series reminds us how to be comfortable in our own skin and that it’s OK to be different. In fact, it’s something we should celebrate.

Buy it: Bea trice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker series

5. The Fantastic Frame series by Lin Oliver

Looking for a fast-paced adventure that instantly hooks your readers? Lin Oliver’s gripping series jumps right into the action. Ten-year-old Tiger loves science, but what happens to him when he visits his mysterious neighbor is too wild to be believed: He gets transported into a painting and is forced to escape from a hungry tiger. The first book ends on a cliffhanger that will leave your readers eager for more action and excitement in the next installments.

Buy it: Fantastic Frame series

6. Definitely Dominguita series by Terry Catasus Jennings

Meet Dominguita, a book-loving Cuban American who wants to prove to a school bully that girls can be knights too. Taking inspiration from Don Quixote, the clever plot showcases relatable characters who help Dom with her quest. Quietly determined and brave, she is a heroine your readers will want to get to know.

Buy it: Definitely Dominguita series

7. The Wild Robot series by Peter Brown

These one-of-a-kind chapter books for third graders are hugely popular for a reason. The futuristic tale features a robot, Roz, trying to survive on a wild island as she faces threats of weather and dangerous animals. In order to survive, she must learn to adapt to her new environment. Short chapters move along the compelling story, making it a perfect choice for readers who are looking for their next adventure.

Buy it: The Wild Robot series

8. Unicorn Academy series by Julie Sykes

A unicorn for a best friend? Yes, please! In this delightfully sweet series, students and their own unicorns get to know each other as they go on magical adventures together. These entertaining chapter books for third graders offer plenty of imagination and fantasy, while also illustrating the realistic elements of friendship.

Buy it: Unicorn Academy series

9. Geronimo Stilton series by Geronimo Stilton

Geronimo Stilton, an author who runs a newspaper in New Mouse City, embarks on grand adventures with his sister, Thea, and their friends. Fast-paced plots keep readers coming back to this treasured collection. The colorful, eye-catching illustrations and creative use of fonts come together for a fun, lighthearted read.

Buy it: Geronimo Stilton series

10. Marya Khan series by Saadia Faruqi

Saadia Faruqi, author of the popular Yasmin series, which made our list of top second grade chapter books , has created another hit series for more advanced readers. Heartwarming and relatable, the story of Marya and her loving Pakistani American family is full of friendship woes and realistic challenges that any kid might face.

Buy it: Marya Khan series

11. The Mouse With the Question Mark Tail by Richard Peck

Fans of The Tale of Desperaux and The Mouse and the Motorcycle will love this endearing story of a mouse without a name. Unsure of where he came from, he is full of questions and desperate to find out the answers. After setting out to solve the mystery of his identity, the mouse embarks on grand adventures fit for royalty. Lovely, detailed illustrations accompany this wonderfully imaginative tale.

Buy it: The Mouse With the Question Mark Tail

12. The Unicorn Rescue Society series by Adam Gidwitz

Who wouldn’t want to be part of a secret society? And one that protects mythical creatures no less! This entertaining fantasy series explores important third grade experiences, like friendship and finding courage, with an inventive plot that will appeal to the reader’s imagination and engage them at every turn.

Buy it: The Unicorn Rescue Society series

13. Saving Winslow by Sharon Creech

Nobody believes the baby donkey Louie’s dad brings home will survive except for Louie. Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech explores theme of hope, connection, and vulnerability in this beautiful story about a boy’s determination to keep his pet donkey alive. With beautiful prose and plenty of understated life wisdom woven throughout the heartwarming story, this book is a winner.

Buy it: Saving Winslow

14. Planet Omar series by Zanib Mian

We can’t say enough good things about these chapter books for third graders. While navigating life at a new school and being labeled as different, Omar uses his imagination to deal with everyday challenges and make sense of the world. Author Zanib Mian beautifully weaves in cultural elements, portraying the traditions and experience of a Muslim family while exploring themes of acceptance, friendship, and identity. Different fonts and sizes break up long chunks of text and keep the stories moving and engaging.

Buy it: Planet Omar series

15. Sideway Stories From Wayside School series by Louis Sachar

Hilarious and absurd, author Louis Sachar’s series about a school that was accidentally built sideways and 30 floors high is a hoot. While it may be completely wacky, the realistic elements about life at school keep it authentic and relevant. You won’t want to miss these unique chapter books for third graders!

Buy it: Sideways Stories from Wayside School series

16. A to Z Mysteries series by Ron Roy

This classic series is perfect for reluctant readers or those who are looking for shorter chapters with easier text. The wholesome adventures and mysteries are endlessly entertaining and hook readers from the very beginning. With 26 books to choose from, students can breeze through them all and try to solve each case before the characters do.

Buy it: A to Z Mysteries series

17. The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher series by Dana Alison Levy

Humorous with huge heart, this two-book series is simply wonderful. With four boys in the Fletcher family who all have different interests and personalities, Dad and Papa have their hands full. These chapter books for third graders portray the realistic imperfections of family life and school, and illustrate how a strong familiar bond can get them through anything.

Buy it: The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher series  

18. Who Was …? series by various authors

Curious readers will devour these nonfiction titles. With more than 200 books to choose from in the prolific series, students can discover compelling biographies that suit their varying interests. Interesting anecdotes and detailed black-and-white illustrations make these famous thinkers, heroes, and changemakers engaging and approachable.

Buy it: Who Was …? series  

19. Dragonbreath series by Ursula Vernon

No matter how hard he tries, Danny just can’t breathe fire like all the other dragons. Along with his iguana best friend, Wendell, Danny goes on adventures to reptile school and beyond as he navigates not feeling he’s good enough and persevering through hard things. With appealing comic-book features combined with traditional text, these entertaining and clever books are as accessible as they are fun.

Buy it: Dragonbreath series  

20. The Magnificent Mya Tibbs series by Crystal Allen

Mya Tibbs is an energetic and endearing character your readers are sure to love. Entertaining and realistic, this charming series showcases the changing nature of friendship and relationships and what it takes to do the right thing.

Buy it: The Magnificent Mya Tibbs series

21. The Boxcar Children series by Gertrude Chandler Warner

While you may remember reading this classic as a kid, this series has truly stood the test of time. Hiding out in an abandoned boxcar, four orphaned siblings take care of one another. With simple text and more accessible vocabulary, this series is great for readers who are looking for an engaging story but aren’t quite ready for more advanced books.

Buy it:  The Boxcar Children series

22. Pages and Co. Series by Anna James

For more advanced third graders, this fast-paced series hits the mark. Part adventure and part mystery, these captivating chapter books for third graders feature story-book characters coming to life.

Buy it: Pages and Co. series

23. Daisy Dawson series by Steve Voake

Daisy Dawson can talk to animals, how cool is that?! Her skill comes in handy as she must help many different animal friends. A perfect fit for readers who are looking for more accessible text, this sweet series is compulsively readable. Animal lovers will delight in her magical power.

Buy it: Daisy Dawson series

24. Humphrey series by Betty Birney

A lovable hamster and class pet named Humphrey narrates this series with surprising depth and heart. Spending each weekend at a different kid’s house, Humphrey gets to see and do it all. What a lucky hamster! With 13 books to choose from, readers will devour these as they get to know the one and only Humphrey.

Buy it: Humphrey series

25. Tales of Magic series by Edward Eager

Summer is shaping up to be extremely slow and boring for Jane and her siblings until Jane finds a magic coin that grants half their wishes, turning everything upside down. What happens when only half your wish comes true? Find out in these compelling and clever chapter books for third graders.

Buy it: Tales of Magic series

26. The Mysterious Makers of Shaker Street by Stacia Deusch

Michael hears an unusual sound and enlists his neighbor friends to help him figure out what’s causing it. We love how readers can get involved in these fun, engaging mysteries. Follow along as these friends solve curious cases around their neighborhood.

Buy it: The Mysterious Makers of Shaker Street series

27. Otis Dooda series by Ellen Potter

Otis and his family experience many curious and strange things when they move to New York City. Based on the title, you might guess the tone of this book right away. And yes, it’s downright silly and appeals to kids’ sense of humor, but that’s why they will love these books.

Buy it: Otis Dooda series

28. Clementine series by Sara Pennypacker

Clementine is a precocious, energetic third-grader who is no stranger to getting in trouble. We love her spunk and attitude! Filled with hilarious adventures and relatable predicaments, this series will keep readers endlessly entertained.

Buy it: Clementine series

Want more recommendations for your classroom library? For more great book lists, subscribe to our newsletters to receive notifications when we post new ones !

Plus, check out this list for more book inspiration for third graders., you might also like.

30 Chapter Books Second Graders Love

Get them hooked on these quality books. Continue Reading

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25 Best Books for 3rd Graders That Will Cherish for Life

1. How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell

2. stella diaz has something to say by angela dominguez, 3. narwhal: unicorn of the sea by ben clanton, 4. mercy watson to the rescue by kate dicamillo, 5. dark emperor and other poems of the night by joyce sidman, 6. fantastic mr. fox by roald dahl, 7. who was helen keller by gare thompson, 8. tintin series by herge, 9. dragons in a bag by zetta elliott, 10. stone fox by john reynolds gardiner.

As a parent, you want to provide your children with the best possible opportunities for success in life. One way to do this is to ensure they read books that will help them learn and grow. If you’re looking for some great books for 3rd graders to read, look no further! 

We’ve compiled a list of twenty-five wonderful books perfect for your 3rd grader . So, why not add some of these titles to your child’s reading list?

Here are some online reading games to educate and engage your kids!

List of 25 Popular Books for 3rd Graders

With so many books in the market (and more being published daily), it can be hard to know which ones are the best for your child. Here are some of the finest children’s books for 3rd graders:

Genre: Fiction/Funny

This classic is about a boy who, as a dare, agrees to eat fifteen worms in fifteen days. It may sound gross, but this story is actually quite humorous and will have your child laughing out loud. This funny story is perfect for kids just starting to read longer books with more complex storylines.

Lessons taught: Friendship, determination, overcoming fears

Price: $6.55

Genre: Fiction/Friendship

Stella Diaz is a Latina second grader who has just moved to a new town and is trying to find her place. Stella is reluctant to speak up in class when she starts school because she fears making mistakes. However, with the help of her new friend, she starts to find her voice and learn to embrace her heritage. This heart-warming book is perfect for kids looking for books with diverse characters.

Lessons taught: Friendship, acceptance, embracing diversity

Price: $6.99

Genre: Graphic Novel/Adventure

This hilarious graphic novel is about a narwhal (a real sea creature) and a jellyfish who become friends and go on wild adventures together. With its bright and colorful illustrations, this is one of those books for 3rd graders that is perfect for kids who love adventure stories and are starting to read books on their own.

Lessons taught: Friendship, acceptance, being yourself

Price: $5.97

Genre: Fiction/Adventure

This series follows the story of Mercy, a lovable pig, and her adventures with her owners, the Watsons. In the first book of the series, Mercy Watson to the Rescue , Mercy gets into trouble when she escapes from her yard and ends up at a crime scene. This hilarious book will have your child giggling from beginning to end. 

Lessons taught: Responsibility, compassion, friendship

Price: $5.94

Genre: Poetry/Nature

This beautiful book of poems is perfect for kids who love nature and animals. Through her poetry, Joyce Sidman captures the beauty and mystery of the night. With stunning illustrations by Rick Allen, this is one of the books for 3rd graders that will captivate your child’s attention.

Lessons taught: Appreciation of nature, imagination, creativity

Price: $8.98

When Mr. Fox steals food from three mean farmers, they hatch a plan to catch him. But Mr. Fox is one step ahead of them! Can he outsmart the farmers and keep his family safe?

Lessons taught: Fantastic Mr. Fox is a hilarious and suspenseful story that will keep your child hooked from beginning to end. Roald Dahl’s books are always a hit with kids; this one is no exception.

Price Range: $7.99–$18.99

Genre: Non-fiction/History

Who Was Helen Keller? is an engaging and inspiring story about one of the most well-known figures in history. In this book, kids will learn about Helen Keller’s incredible life, from her early years as a sick child who lost her ability to see and hear to her later years as an advocate for people with disabilities.

Lessons taught: This book is perfect for kids interested in history and wanting to learn more about inspiring people.

Price: $5.68

Genre: Graphic/Adventure

Tintin is a classic graphic novel series that follows the adventures of a young reporter and his dog, Snowy. In the first book, The Secret of the Unicorn , Tintin sets out to solve a mystery after finding a model ship worth a lot of money. With its exciting story and classic illustrations, this book will surely capture your child’s attention.

Lessons taught: Friendship, persistence, bravery

Price: $122.50 (for the complete series)

In this fast-paced adventure, three siblings must figure out how to eliminate the dragons their mom accidentally brought home from the store. With magic, mischief, and mayhem, this is one of those books for 3rd graders that is perfect for kids who love a good story.

Lessons taught: Dragons in a Bag is a fun and fast-paced book that will keep your child entertained from beginning to end.

Price: $6.59

Genre: Classic/Adventure

In this classic novel, a young boy named Little Bear enters a dogsled race to win the prize money and save his family’s farm. But he soon learns that winning is not everything. Wanting to give up, Little Bear is inspired by his grandfather’s words to keep going.

Why kids will love it: Stone Fox is an inspiring story about determination and never giving up. Your child will root for Little Bear as he tries to achieve the impossible.

Price Range: $3.49–$16.99

11. The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster

Genre: Fantasy/Adventure

This popular classic follows Milo, a bored young boy who suddenly finds himself in a land where words and numbers have come to life. With the help of some new friends, Milo must find his way back home before it’s too late.

Lessons taught: Friendship, imagination, creativity

Price: $7.78

12. I Am Martin Luther King, Jr. by Brad Meltzer

In this inspiring story, kids will learn about the life of one of the most influential figures in American history. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a Baptist minister and civil rights activist who fought for equality and justice. It is one of the most interesting books for 3rd graders to read, as it teaches them the importance of standing up for their beliefs.

Lessons taught: Courage, determination, equality

Price: $11.89

13. A Boy Called Bat by Elana K. Arnold

Genre: Fiction/Family

Life frequently comes with surprises for Bixby Alexander Tam (also known by his initials Bat), some of which are pleasant and others not so much. One day, Bat’s mother, a veterinarian, brought home a young skunk she must care for until she could deliver him to a wild animal sanctuary.

But the moment Bat meets the kit, he knows the two of them are meant to be. And he has one month to convince his mother that a baby skunk may make a great pet.

Lessons taught: Acceptance, empathy, friendship

14. Babe: The Gallant Pig by Dick King-Smith

This classic tale tells the story of a piglet who comes to life on a farm. Babe is different from the other farm animals, but he soon learns he can do anything he wants.

What kids will love about it: Babe is a heart-warming story that will teach your child the importance of being yourself.

15. Freedom School, Yes! by Amy Littlesugar

Genre: Non-fiction/Adventure

In this true story, kids will learn about the Freedom Schools created during the Civil Rights Movement. This story, which is told from the perspective of Jolie, a young black student, demonstrates the emotional depth required to comprehend the venom and dangerous tensions of racial struggle during the Southern desegregation.

Lesson taught: No to racism, civil rights, education

Price: $8.67

16. Owl Diaries: Eva’s Treetop Festival by Rebecca Elliott

This is the first book in a charming series about a young owl, Eva, who is learning to write her diary. In this adventure, Eva and her friends are invited to a treetop festival and must work together to create the perfect performance.

What kids will love about it: The Owl Diaries series is ideal for kids just starting to read chapter books. With beautiful illustrations and easy-to-follow text, these amazing books for 3rd graders will keep your child engaged from beginning to end.

Price: $4.99

17. Juana & Lucas by Juana Medina

In this story, kids will follow the adventures of a young girl named Juana, who lives in Bogotá, Colombia. Juana is a curious girl who loves asking questions about the world around her. Whether she’s learning how to ride a bike or trying to find the perfect pet, Juana’s adventures are sure to keep your child entertained.

What kids will love about it: Juana & Lucas is an excellent choice for kids interested in learning about other cultures. With its bright and colorful illustrations, this book will also teach your child about the importance of family and friendship.

Price: $6.98

18. Flat Stanley: His Original Adventure! by Jeff Brown

This is the first book in the beloved Flat Stanley series. In this adventure, Stanley Lambchop is flattened by a bulletin board that falls on top of him. But instead of being upset, Stanley realizes that his new flatness has its own advantages. He can now slide under doors, travel by envelope, and fly like a kite.

Lessons taught: Acceptance, creativity, perspective

19. The BFG by Roald Dahl

This classic tale tells the story of a giant who captures a young girl named Sophie. But instead of eating her, the BFG takes Sophie on an adventure to capture some of the other, more evil, giants. Along the way, the two become friends and protect each other from danger.

What kids will love about it: The BFG is a delightful story that your child will surely enjoy. With its larger-than-life characters and exciting adventures, this book will provide hours of entertainment.

Price: $6.74

20. Dog Man by Dav Pilkey

This is the first adventure in the hilarious Dog Man series. In this book, Dog Man tries to stop a burglar while dealing with his problems. With its goofy illustrations and easy-to-follow text, this book is perfect for kids just starting to read chapter books.

What kids will love about it: Kids will love this series’s funny and relatable characters. With its fast-paced storytelling and laugh-out-loud moments, your child will surely enjoy reading these books repeatedly.

Price: $13.56

21. Weekends with Max and His Dad by Linda Urban

This heartwarming story follows the relationship between a father and son as they spend their weekends together. From fishing to camping to attending baseball games, these two share a lot of special memories.

Lessons taught: Family, friendship, memories

22. The Adventures of Paddington by Michael Bond

This classic series follows the adventures of a young bear named Paddington. Paddington is sent to live with the Brown family in London. While he is there, he has all sorts of adventures and mishaps.

What kids will love about it: Kids will love following along with Paddington’s adventures. This book will become a favorite with its classic storytelling and lovable characters.

23. Christopher Columbus by Stephen Krensky

This nonfiction book tells the story of Christopher Columbus, his famous voyage, and the indigenous peoples of America. Kids will learn about Columbus’s life and motivation for making the trip. They will also read about the challenges he faced along the way and how he persuaded some natives to return to Europe with him.

What kids will learn: This book is a great way to teach kids about history in an honest and objective manner. Your kids will enjoy learning about the real-life adventures of Christopher Columbus.

24. Stuart Little by E.B. White

Genre: Classic/Fiction

This classic tale tells the story of a mouse named Stuart Little. Stuart is born to a family of humans and must learn to navigate the world as a mouse. Along the way, he has all sorts of adventures and meets new friends.

What kids will love about it: This book has adventure and suspense. Kids will love reading about Stuart’s daring escapades.

Price: $5.90

25. I Spy Gold Challenger! by Walter Wick

Genre: Non-fiction/Photography

This non-fiction book is perfect for kids who love puzzles and games . In this book, kids will search for hidden objects in each photograph. This book will entertain your child for hours with its challenging puzzles and beautiful pictures.

What kids will learn: This book is a great way to teach kids about observation and attention to detail. With its engaging photos and puzzles, kids will love learning while they play.

Price: $9.99

Let’s Get Your Kids Reading!

Now that you know about some of the best books for 3rd graders, it’s time to get your kids reading! The sooner they start, the better. From fiction and non-fiction to adventure and mystery, these books for 3rd graders will keep your child entertained while also helping them develop a love for reading .

Explore more online educational resources for kids that will help with their learning experience and make them smarter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can i get my 3rd grader to read more.

One way to get your 3rd grader to read more is to ask their teacher for recommendations. Their teacher likely has a list of books for 3rd graders that are perfect for your child’s reading level . Obviously, finding good books for 3rd graders that they’ll love is half the battle won! You can also try giving them incentives to read, such as allowing them to pick out a new book after they finish one.

What if my 3rd grader isn’t interested in reading?

If your child doesn’t like to read, don’t force them. Instead, try to find reading books for 3rd graders that they’re interested in. You can also try reading aloud or giving them incentives to read. Another great trick is watching movies and shows with subtitles; it will add a reading aspect to something they already love doing. With some patience, you’re sure to find a way to get your child interested in reading.

What are some of the benefits of reading for third-graders?

Reading helps third-graders develop their vocabulary, learn about other cultures, and improve their writing skills. It also promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Plus, it’s an excellent way for them to bond with you.

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Books for Kids and Grown Ups

Realistic Fiction for 3rd Graders

If you’ve been on the hunt for realistic fiction 3rd graders love, this is the list for you. Third graders are special because this is when many kids break into reading middle grade books. For this list, I’ve included several of my favorite young middle grade books perfect for advanced 2nd graders ( 2nd grade chapter books here ) and 3rd graders who love realistic fiction. You’ll find a healthy mix of classics and new releases to add to your lineup.

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Realistic Fiction Books for 3rd Graders

Here are 20 wonderful realistic fiction for 3rd graders:

This classic about a boy who won’t stop calling a pen a frindle is full of hijinks and the audiobook is funny beyond belief. Your kids will ask you to play this story of the boy who kept calling a pen a frindle until you’re sick of it. Such a fun, fun book! Great for introducing kids to chapter books and absolutely delightful!

Mr. Whiskers and the Shenanigan Sisters

Mr. Whiskers is a street-wise stray dog with a nose for trouble and a fondness for two girls he calls the Shenanigan Sisters. So when Misty and Zelda’s professor father is kidnapped, Mr. Whiskers follows that car, picking up vital clues. With the help of his street friends and the Shenanigan sisters, Mr. Whiskers leads the way to finding Mr. Shenanigan. I liked this better on audio and if your kids like gentle, quirky anima-led mysteries, they’ll enjoy this.

Ways to Make Sunshine

Ryan Hart and her family are going through many changes — new house, new baby, money struggles! Still, there are small joys. She doesn’t have to change schools and is still close enough to one of her best friends. With the new house and selling one of their cars, her parents can better deal with their financial struggles. Throughout this slice-of-life book, Ryan learns how to believe in herself, enjoy public speaking, be a bigger person, and love who she is. This is an absolutely delightful early middle-grade book with a memorable protagonist.

Link + Hud: Heroes by a Hair

Brothers Lincoln and Hudson Dupré are constantly pretending to be on one adventure or another–and destroying their home in the process. Until their parents get an experienced babysitter who wrangles both boys using unconventional methods–much to their dismay. Their plot to get rid of her yields unexpected results. This hilarious graphic novel-prose hybrid shows the brothers’ imaginations in panels and the real story as plain text with illustrations.

Just Harriet

Harriet’s mom is pregnant and has been placed on bed rest until the baby is born. Harriet, an energetic child, has been sent to Marble Island, where her grandmother lives and runs a bed and breakfast. She’s understandably frustrated and feeling abandoned by her parents. Thankfully, she takes her cat, Matzo Ball, with her. When she arrives at Marble Island, Harriet starts to learn more about her father’s childhood and discovers that they have more in common than she expects. Just Harriet is a charming, engaging chapter book/young middle grade book with a memorable, relatable protagonist.

Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business

Mindy and her father have recently moved from the city to a suburb in Florida, where she is the only Asian girl in her school. Mindy wants to be liked at her new school. Things start to look up for Mindy when the kids try and love her seaweed snacks. At first, she starts a snack trade-off but later decides to start selling the snacks so she can save up money to buy a puppy. However, Mindy’s new business and friendship run into some problems along the way. This series provides much-needed Asian-American representation, much like the  Jasmine Toguchi  books. If you’re looking for a chapter book with a sweet protagonist  dealing with grief,   moving,  and fitting in with a new school crowd, this is your pick.

My Weird School #1: Miss Daisy Is Crazy! 

In the first My Weird School book ever, second-grade teacher Miss Daisy is in over her head at Ella Mentary School. She doesn’t even know how to add or subtract! But the students, like A.J. and his friends, have other things on their minds. Principal Klutz has promised their class that if they read a million pages in books, they can turn the school into a video-game arcade for one whole night! Perfect for reluctant readers and word lovers alike, Dan Gutman’s insanely popular My Weird School series has something for everyone.

The Un-Friendship Bracelet (Craftily Ever After Book 1)

This cute series about a group of friends who love crafts and all things DIY is perfect for little craft fiends who love books about friendship.

Twig and Turtle: Big Move to a Tiny House

Twig and Turtle are two sisters whose parents have just moved into a tiny house! The family has done some major downsizing — the kids even had to choose just five toys they could keep, and now they have to clean up after playing with their toys. Both girls are also adjusting to a new neighborhood and new school. This is a delightful start to a compelling new chapter book series featuring two sisters whose lives are changed by a move to a tiny house. It’s perfect for kids navigating a  move to another house , depicts a  positive sister relationship , and shows kids how to handle bullying at school.

Shermy and Shake

When a new kid comes to stay with his grandmother at the house next door, Shermy’s plans for a quiet, relaxing summer are completely upended. That’s because Shake is nothing like Shermy. And Shermy is nothing like Shake. Shermy likes to read quietly in the shade of a tree. He knows the proper way to do a puzzle. As the two boys are forced to spend more and more time together, will they learn how to get along? Or will it be one long countdown until Shake goes home?

Julia on the Go: Swimming into Trouble

Julia LOVES to swim and is excited to participate in Personal Best Day with her swim team. Unfortunately, she develops an ear infection and the doctor’s orders are clear: stay out of the water. But Julia won’t give up and tries several wacky ways to stop water from getting in her ears when she swims, with disappointing and hilarious results. Eventually, she learns there are different ways to be part of a team. I loved this chapter book, especially the depiction of Julia’s immigrant parents, their sushi shop, and Julia’s adventures in the library and with frenemies. It’s an excellent choice for older readers who want the comfort of pictures in their stories.

Ava Lin: Best Friend

This is a hilarious and adorable chapter book about 6-and-a-half-year-old Ava Lin and her exploits in the first grade, which involve finding treasures, a maybe-new best friend, and lots of “explanation points.” This one skews much younger and may appeal to kids who aren’t quite strong readers yet, or for your advanced second graders. I loved it and smiled so much while reading it. It also features a mix of text, illustrations, and comic panels, which I enjoyed.

Emma McKenna, Full Out (The Kids in Mrs. Z’s Class #1)

Emma McKenna is stoked for third grade until she discovers that her former best friend is also in her class. As she tries to make new friends and use her voice in her class, Emma learns that it’s okay to be herself and share her opinions, even if it’s different from others. This is the first book in the new series featuring several acclaimed authors including Karina Yan Glaser, Rajani LaRocca, and others. Each book in the series will focus on a different kid and be written by a different author.

Too Small Tola

Too Small Tola is a new chapter book from Atinuke featuring three stories about a girl living with her grandmother and siblings in Lagos, Nigeria. Everyone teases Tola — sometimes lovingly — for being so small. They think she can’t lift heavy loads or do other things because of her size. But Tola’s grandmother reassures her that you can be small, but mighty, and Tola proves that she is!

Marya Khan and the Incredible Henna Party

In this sweet, delightful story, Marya Khan has gotten herself in a fix by claiming she’s having a henna party for her birthday when, in reality, she’s having no party. Marya is convinced that all her classmates have more exciting lives than she does but over time, she realizes that no one has a perfect life and she needs to appreciate hers more.

Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things

This series is so quirky and humorous and my heart always goes out to Alvin on his quest to make new friends and talk at school despite being nervous and afraid of everything. Kids who are shy or struggle with social situations will find a sure friend in Alvin.

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library: The Graphic Novel

The Lemoncello Library series was a hit for many middle schoolers and the graphic novel version is even more accessible, especially for advanced third graders who can’t get enough of realistic graphic novels.

Accidental Trouble Magnet (Planet Omar #1)

Omar is a young Muslim boy with a huge imagination. He and his family (his mom, dad, and two siblings) are adjusting to a new move (new house, new school) and approaching the month of Ramadan. Unfortunately, the adjustment process is NOT smooth. First, there’s a neighbor who doesn’t seem to like Omar’s family and a bully at school who keeps making fun of him. Things come a head when Omar and Daniel, the bully get lost together during a school trip. Can Omar escape all this trouble he keeps attracting? This is a charming chapter book about the life of a Muslim imaginative boy during Ramadan, adjusting to a new school, befriending a bully, and navigating family/sibling relationships.

The Terrible Two

Miles is devastated to be moving from his town to another one called Yawnee Valley. He loved his town, had good friends, and, most importantly, was well-known as the best prankster around. When he arrives in Yawnee Valley, he immediately discovers that there’s already a superb prankster there — with a secret identity no less. When Miles gets out-pranked by the Yawnee Valley prankster, it starts a prank war between both kids until they decide to join forces. The Terrible Two is a riotous, animated middle grade book about pranks, unlikely friendships, and cows.

The One and Only Ivan

This is a slightly more advanced book (that also isn’t 100% “realistic”) that makes for a good classroom read-aloud. It’s about a mall gorilla and the connections he makes with the other animals there, as well as what we can learn about animal confinement. It’s a sweet verse novel that’s great for kids who love animal stories.

There they are: 20 of the best realistic fiction books for 3rd graders! Which of these have you read? What did I miss?

More 3rd Grade Books

• Great books for 3rd graders
• Good books for 3rd grade girls
• Best books for 3rd grade boys
• Book series for 3rd graders

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• About Afoma Umesi

Afoma Umesi is the founder and editor of Reading Middle Grade where she curates book lists and writes book reviews for kids of all ages. Her favorite genre to read is contemporary realistic fiction and she'll never say no to a graphic novel.

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The Best Books for Kids in Grades 3-5 to Read Right Now

To foster a true love of books and encourage a regular summer reading routine , it’s important to know what titles are popular among your child’s age group today. 

Children in grades 3 to 5 right now are excited about learning shark facts ( Everything Awesome About Shark and Other Underwater Creatures! ), saving the world with Marvel superheroes ( Miles Morales: Shock Waves ), and delving into the latest adventures of hilarious Dog Man ( Dog Man #10: Mothering Heights ) — and that’s only the beginning! Whether your child loves fiction, nonfiction, adventure, comedy, or spooky stories, you’ll find the perfect book for every type of reader. 

Start off by making a list of books your child would like to read. If they’re not sure, start a conversation about what sparks and holds their interest — is it animals, superheroes, or perhaps relatable school stories? 

Jot down a few books that come to mind, then talk about those books together to build anticipation and excitement around them. Next, create a summer reading nook and start diving into the trending titles below together. 

Shop popular books for kids in grades 3 to 5 now! You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store .

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60 Best 3rd Grade Books in a Series

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

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

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

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

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

SHOP this booklist.

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

Katie the Catsitter by Colleen AF Venable, illustrated by Stephanie Yue

ADVENTURE GRAPHIC NOVEL

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

Sparks  by Ian Boothby, illustrated by Nina Matsumoto

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

Jax is a young boy staying with an irascible old lady named Ma who helps magical animals travel between worlds. In this case, three dragons. She accidentally travels back in time instead of to the world of magic, and gets stuck there. Now it’s up to Jax to rescue Ma and deliver the dragons to where they belong. But one of the dragons is missing!

I adore this book about encouraging kids to write comics! Plus, it’s totally hilarious. Cat Kid teaches a class for the tadpoles about making their own comic books…which doesn’t go well until the tadpoles get excited about failure and get started writing and drawing. If you like a lot of silliness (including potty humor) with great messages about writing , creativity, and persistence, read this book next.

Dragon Kindom of Wrenly: The Coldfire Curse  by Jordan Quinn

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

Pizazz by Sophy Henn

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

Love Puppies: Best Friends Furever  by JaNay Brown Wood

MAGICAL REALISM

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

P.I. Butterfly Gone Guppy Case #1  by Karen Kilpatrick, illustrated by German Blanco ( GRAPHIC NOVEL )

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

Legends of Lotus Island: The Guardian Test  by Christina Soontornvat, illustrated by Kevin Hong

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

Bad Kitty Supercat  by Nick Bruel 

HUMOR   GRAPHIC NOVEL

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

The A to Z Mysteries books are the best! None of the books need to be read in any particular order, each has a self-contained mystery. (I think my kids read most of the books in this series more than once; they are that good.) In this story, the famous writer coming to the bookstore doesn’t show up. Dink and his friends Josh and Ruth Rose must find out what happened to the missing author. Box set here .

Reading Journal for Kids

102 pages of fun!

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

Mythics: Marina and the Kraken  written by Lauren Magaziner, illustrated by Mirelle Ortega

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

Tally Tuttle Turns into a Turtle by Kathryn Holmes

REALISTIC ish

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

FUNNY BOOK In a word: hilarious. Kids think Bad Kitty is very naughty but, oh so funny. These books are addictive to read and fun to reread. Illustrated with minimal text on every page. Bad Kitty has an attitude. She makes life difficult for her owner, Uncle Murry, puppy, and so on and so forth. Boxed set here .

Zita the Spacegirl  by Ben Hatke

HUMOR / GRAPHIC NOVEL

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

Dragonbreath  by Ursula Vernon

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

Ninja Kid: From Nerd to Ninja by Anh Do

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

Cat Ninja  by Matthew Cody, illustrated by Yehudi Mercado

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

First in one of the BEST Minecraft book series published, this adventure follows five players who are transported inside the game– and it’s real! They’ll have to use all their survival and problem-solving skills to stay alive. BOXED SET of Books 1 – 4 HERE .

Ivy Lost and Found  by Cynthia Lord, illustrated by Stephanie Graegin

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

Who Would Win? Whale vs. Giant Squid

Teachers say that their 3rd grade students can’t get enough of the Who Would Win? books. This particular title pits two ocean carnivores against each other. First, you’ll learn facts about a sperm whale, then you’ll learn about the giant squid. Finally, read what happens when these two creatures face-off.  Can you predict who will win? See all the addicting informational books in the Who Would Win series .

Unicorn Academy: Sophia and Rainbow

Well-written and charming, this unicorn book series is sure to entrance many young readers. In this story, Sophia arrives at Unicorn Academy and is paired with the lovely Rainbow. But, she feels guilty for making a new friend and leaving her best pony, Clover, back at home. On top of that, the unicorns’ magic is wonky because the lake is being poisoned. When someone accuses Sophia, she and her new friends decide to investigate.

Whatever After  by Sarah MlynowskiFANTASY / HUMOR

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

Dog Man by Dav Pinkey

GRAPHIC NOVEL / HUMOR

Weird. Quirky. Funny. I think all three describe this new graphic novel from the creator of Captain Underpants. In the first story, a police officer and a dog are joined together — the top from the dog, the bottom from the officer to make: Dog Man . Dog Man solves crimes and has adventures, the likes of which will entertain 8-year-old readers for hours.

First Cat in Space  by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Shawn Harris ( GRAPHIC NOVEL )

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

Get to Work, Hercules! (Myth-O-Mania)   by Kate McMullanHUMOR / MYTHOLOGYHades narrates the “TRUE” stories of the Greek Myths with panache and humor. Apparently, his younger brother Zeus is a big fat liar and edited all the myths to make himself look good. In this updated myth, Hades watches over his young, not-too-smart nephew, Hercules, whom Hera has it out for. Your kids are going to LOVE these books! My library can’t keep them on the shelves.

My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish  by Mo O’Hara

Hysterical and totally believable, right? Find out what happens if your goldfish dies and you bring him back to life. Only you messed it up and your goldfish becomes a zombie that can mesmerize you with his powerful eyes, making you do anything he wants. Aaaah!

HISTORICAL FICTION

Your kids will zip through these short, fast-paced adventures. The I Survived stories always are about a young person trying to survive the historically important, life-changing event such as the Titanic, Hurricane Katrina, Pearl Harbor, Nazi Invasion, and the Hindenburg crash. You’ll probably want to get a box set so your kids can immerse themselves in this excellent series.

The Haunted Library  by Dori Hillestad Butler

My 3rd-grade daughter and I loved this entertaining mystery series about a boy ghost, Kaz, who is blown away from his family and into a new haunt — a library. In this first story, he and his new friend, Claire, decide to be detectives. They want to discover the secret of the other ghost haunting the library plus find his missing family.

FRACTURED FAIRY TALE

Princess Harriet is the COOLEST heroine in this Sleeping Beauty 2.0. She’s thrilled to know she’ll fall into a deep sleep when she’s twelve because that means she can do anything crazy and dangerous without dying. In fact, she searches out danger and the results are hilariously entertaining. The other books in this fairy tale series with a twist series are just as remarkable. You’ll love the quirky humor.

Ivy and Bean   by Annie Barrows, illustrated by Sophie Blackall

HUMORGet ready to laugh along with these charming young friends who won’t stop until they find the best way to solve their perplexing troubles, no matter how many ideas they must try. A fantastic series for third graders. Boxed Set HERE .

The funny plots are about Nate’s life at home and school are totally relatable to any kid, especially boys. Some, like this one, are written in a combo of text and comics while others are straight graphic novels like Big Nate Welcome to My World . Box set here .

Siblings Maddie and Atticus can’t figure out who is dumping trash everywhere. And when they rescue a baby dolphin entangled in trash, they know they must get to the bottom of this mystery. Full-color photographs with information about dolphins, marine life, and more add in bonus  nonfiction information  for readers.

INTERACTIVE SCI-FI

These books invite YOU the reader to help solve the mysteries with your own bravery, heroism, and imaginative drawing. Yes, drawing. For example, in this story, you’ll make sure (by drawing) that you’ve got a spacesuit, you’ve packed everything you need to bring, the rocket design is perfect plus has some silly (bandages!?) extras, and lots more as the adventure ensues. It may sound contrived but it’s a fun, engaging adventure that any kid, artist or not, will love. And there is MORE in the series! Also read: The Pursuit of the Pesky Pizza Pirate! and  The Rise of Rusty-Robo-Cat! .

Trapped in a Video Game

Gamers and nongamers alike who love exciting and dangerous stories won’t want to miss this excellent series. Jesse’s friend gets an early release of a video game — and it sucks in both boys. They’re literally trapped. Inside the game, they meet a classmate who has been missing for weeks, now a grown-up man in the game. Because there’s no way out.

The Year of the Book  by Andrea Chang

Growing up is challenging and in the first novel, The Year of the Book , Anna turns to books for company while she learns how to make friendships in real life. The subsequent books in the series are just as realistic and well-written. I highly recommend them & love the diversity of the main character.

REALISTIC / STEM

Jada starts the school year hoping to find new friends, hopefully, ones that love rocks like she does. She misses her best friend but feels excited when her class studies geology. Unfortunately, one bossy girl in Jada’s group project makes fun of Jada’s interest in rocks. This is a well-written STEM story that shows the challenges of getting along with others and staying true to yourself.

Little Guides to Great Lives Nelson Mandela

This is another new biography series that I highly recommend for elementary-age readers. Written like a narrative story, these little books are fast-paced and informative. This particular title is about one of the world’s most admired activists and leaders, Nelson Mandela. Little Guides to Great Lives series  contain perfect text to picture ratio, captivating illustrations, informative content, and just-right pacing. Plus, they’re very well-written.

Franny K. Stein

HUMOR / SCI-FI

Franny is not a normal kid but a mad scientist. We love these stories that are wacky and laugh-out-loud funny sharing the many unfortunate antics of Franny.

by Herobrine Books

Short sentences with witty observations on life from the perspective of a Minecraft zombie will crack you up. These diaries are entertaining, funny reads. Nothing scary and perfect for any Minecraft enthusiasts. 

Two-Headed Chicken  by Tom Angleberger 

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

SCI-FI / HUMOR

Engaging from the first page, this is a relatable (and funny) graphic novel adventure story about a young boy, Roan, who dreams of becoming a pilot . . . but gets into Jedi school instead. He’s the oldest new student because the other kids started long before he did. Roan has ups and downs, as one does at a new school, but finds his place at the school with new friends.

MYSTERY / STEM

Ada moves to a new neighborhood where she observes everything that happens out her window. She and a new friend notice a distraught neighbor whose dog is missing and they determine to solve the mystery.  Along with another neighbor boy, they use science and technology to solve the mystery of the missing dog.

Bad Guys  is a hysterical book and a favorite series for many boys especially.  Mr. Wolf invites other bad guys to a meeting in hopes they will join him in being good. Lots of drawings and minimal text make this a sure bet for beginning readers who like irony and humor. ( Note: If you don’t like potty humor, this is not the book for you. I will admit, after a few books, I was DONE with it. )

Sideways Stories from Wayside School

Old school humor at its best! These goofy books describe a wacky school with crazy teachers and even crazier events. Be ready to laugh.

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

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

Lunch Lady and the Cyborg Substitute  

If you haven’t read these addictive and hilarious graphic novels, they are a must for anyone who has eaten lunch at school. BOX SET

Jasmine Toguchi Mochi Queen by Debbi Michiko Florence, illustrated by Eliazbet Vukovic

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

The Story of Olympic Swimmer Duke Kahanamoku

Kids will love learning about cool but lesser-known people like Duke, a famous Hawaiian who is known for his dominance of the sport of surfing as well as being an Olympic swimmer. Helpful informational insets give readers background on topics covered in the biography such as how surfboards are made. Love it.

Amelia Bedelia Unleashed

I’ve been enjoying these updated Amelia chapter books by the original author’s son. In this story, Amelia searches for the perfect puppy in her charming, Amelia Bedelia way.

Fancy Nancy: Nancy Clancy, Secret Admirer  

Another enjoyable book in the Nancy Clancy series. In this book, Nancy and her best friend, Bree, decide to play matchmaker for Nancy’s babysitter, Annie, and her guitar teacher, Andy. Funny and fun!  BOX SET

If you like non-stop action, potty humor, space adventures, zombie aliens, mutant worm wrestling, a misunderstood evil princess, good friends, video games, and a diabolical, hunting-them-down evil queen, then this series is for you. Plus, it has loads of cartoon illustrations throughout and hilarious writing with a kazillion exclamation marks!!!! (If you like this, you’ll want to read book 2,  The Weiner Strikes Back. )

Written in letters, drawings, newspaper articles, and other unique texts, accompanied by illustrations, you’ll find this is a mesmerizing series about an old man named Ignatius B. Grumply and the ghosts that live in his home. Surprisingly not scary and quite punny, this was a favorite series for my 3rd grader.

If you like kooky books, this book fits the bill. Olga finds an unusual, unknown creature whom she names “MEH” after the sound that it makes. She uses her deductive reasoning to figure out what it is (something new!) and what it likes to eat (olives)! But what will she do when Meh disappears? Here’s what I love about this book… One, the illustrations rock! Two, the narrator’s voice is believable and funny. Three, the plot includes mean girls who aren’t so mean after all.

Kristy’s Great Idea Babysitter’s Club #1

REALISTIC / GRAPHIC NOVEL

We’re loving these updated Babysitter’s Club graphic novels by the uber-talented Raina Telegemeier who wrote the highly-acclaimed  Smile  and  Sister . I recommend starting with book one since the stories are told in a specific order with details from previous stories. These are funny and fun to read, maybe even more than once. BOX SET HERE.

Nick and Tesla’s High-Voltage Danger Lab

MYSTERY/ STEM

Siblings Nick and Tesla are shipped off to live with their mad-scientist Uncle Newt for the summer while their parents are . . . doing something with soybeans in Uzbekistan. When left to fend for themselves, they discover something very suspicious happening at the old mansion down the street, more than just losing their rocket in that yard. If you like science, technology, and adventure, this is the series for you. (Also read: STEAM and STEM Chapter Books for Kids )

ENTREPRENEUR

A warm-hearted, sweet story about a Latinx girl who’s an entrepreneur and devoted daughter and granddaughter. When her grandpa (tata) tells Sarai Gonzalez that his rental house is being sold, she determines to help by selling more cupcakes than ever. Even her sisters join in to help and so do her cousins. A darling start to a new series inspired by Sarai’s own life!

Hank’s brain freezes up when he talks to people  — and also when he tries out for his class play. That’s why he gets the bookmark role. But, when the lead actor flubs his lines, Hank jumps in to save the play from disaster. I love Hank’s relatable character to whom learning doesn’t come easily

Stick Dog is hilarious. Why is he called Stick Dog? Because our author/narrator can’t draw. And also, because he likes sticks. The funny cartoonish illustrations make this story of stray dogs easy to read and very entertaining series for kids.

3rd grader Beatrice is a divergent problem solver. So when her best friend Lenny comes back from camp a changed girl and seems to have a new best friend that is NOT Beatrice, Beatrice decides to get her friend back. Kids will be cheering Beatrice on as she tried to figure out how to reconnect with her former best friend. Cute!

If you like mythical creatures, independent thinkers, and mysteries, you’ll love this first book in the Pip Bartlett series as much as me. Pip’s world is just like ours except for one significant difference —  magical creatures exist and often are pets!

Judy Moody Was in a Mood

Want to get your kids reading a great series? Try Judy Moody. She’s a relatable third grader with a big personality, an annoying little brother, and humorous antics.

Secrets of the Manor:  Claire’s Story, 1910  by Adele Whitby

HISTORICAL MYSTERY

This is a captivating story about an orphan girl who moves to France to live with friends of her family. She befriends a servant girl and the duo realizes there are mysteries that must be answered — like what happened to the daughter of the manor and why did her parents send her to this family. An excellent first book in a new series for 3rd graders.

You Might Also Like:

Best Read Aloud Books for 3rd Grade

All book recommendations for 8-year olds

Nonfiction Book Recommendations for 3rd G raders

Best Boxed Book Sets for Kids

Card Games for Kids

Funny Books

The post 60 Best 3rd Grade Books in a Series appeared first on Imagination Soup .

Books For Third Grade Readers​

Everything you need to know to support your third-grade reader..

If you have been watching your child’s  reading progress  with eager anticipation since that first touch-and-feel baby book , then the  third-grade reading level*  is a time to get really excited. While readers at first – and second-grade levels are, for the most part, still learning the fundamentals of reading, the third-grade level is when readers tend to start  finding their reading wings . From  greater reading confidence and ability  to  a sense of independence  in the topics and genres they choose, readers at the third-grade level are busy developing  more complex reading skills  at this stage in reading development.

More broadly, the third-grade level is a  transitional period  in which readers build the skills they will need to tackle more complex educational tasks; readers at this level are transitioning from learning to read to reading to learn. Much of a reader’s  later academic success  will depend on the skills developed at this critical stage. In this article, we’ll outline key skills to look out for and support, as well as some of the choices you can turn to support your reader’s fledgling independence.

Remember that not every child develops reading skills (or any skill, for that matter) at the same pace, and children of the same age may have widely varying reading levels. A child in third grade will not necessarily be reading at a third-grade reading level—they may be reading at a  first – or  second-grade  reading level or a fourth- or fifth-grade reading level or above.

Supporting A Third-Grade-Level Reader’s Growing Confidence and Reading Ability

Your third-grade level reader is probably reading at least some texts independently and has developed a good-enough command of language to be able to appreciate plot and meaning. According to the common core standards, a  reader at this level  should be reading some multi-syllable and irregularly spelled words, self-correct mistakes, and answer text-specific questions. Developing these skills means that they are ready for more challenging reading tasks.

To help your third-grade level readers progress at this stage, encourage them to branch out and explore new authors, genres, topics, and writing styles. Provide reading-related tasks and questions that help them understand non-literal expressions, such as metaphors, and encourage them to express opinions, make comparisons, and talk about books.

This stage is also the right one to start introducing  supporting skills , such as looking up unfamiliar words, judging the quality of a book, and understanding context. Show your reader how to use tools like dictionaries and search engines, encourage them to articulate the strengths and weaknesses of a book, and urge them to research authors’ lives and the historical periods in which different books were written.

Finally, as your reader develops more complex reading skills, you will want to be on the lookout for emerging reading disabilities. Research suggests that intervention received at the second-and third-grade readings levels is much  more effective  than that delivered at a later stage.

Choosing Books by Subject Matter to Support Developing Third-Grade Reading Skills

As already mentioned, the third-grade level is the ideal time to start exploring new things. There are several areas worth exploring as you help your reader choose exciting new books.

Historical fiction can be a great way to help your reader flex their comprehension muscles and explore context simultaneously. Ellen Levine’s Henry’s Freedom Box , Yona Zeldis McDonough’s  The Bicycle Spy , and Patricia Polacco’s  Fiona’s Lace are great choices.

If you are homeschooling, classic fiction—think Pippi Longstocking , Roald Dahl novels, or fairy tales —are a great option because so many supporting educational materials are freely available.

While many readers will gravitate to fiction, it is also worth remembering that fantastic non-fiction options are available for this age group. Look for biographies , like Joseph Bruchac’s A Boy Called Slow or Ann McGovern’s The Secret Soldier , or informational texts— National Geographic has offerings on just about every subject under the sun, from dinosaurs to soccer.  

Choosing Genres and Forms to Support a Wide Range of Interests and Literacy Skills

The third-grade level also opens up a range of new forms and  genres of text for your reader to enjoy. Series books can offer a sense of familiarity and security and are an excellent choice for reluctant readers (although they pose a risk to variety and breadth of reading matter).  Captain Underpants , How to Train Your Dragon ,  and  Wayside School   are all popular choices, with enough substance to challenge as well as entertain.

Don’t forget to include some poetry:  Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes ,  books by Shel Silverstein , and Dr. Seuss ‘s stories are all great choices.

Readers at this level can also branch out from the written word to other forms of reading: magazines, audiobooks , and graphic novels can all be fantastic ways to introduce your reader to new ideas and develop broader forms of literacy. For example, the  Adventures in Cartooning  series by James Sturm will help readers build their drawing and writing skills as well as visual literacy, and magazines like  MotoKids ,  Little Player , and  Young Rider  can help your reader build literacy skills while indulging in specialist interests.

Supporting Diversity and Inclusion in Book Choices for Third-Grade Readers

Readers’ burgeoning critical thinking skills at this level make this an ideal stage for deeper exploration of social issues , including diversity and inclusion . There are many excellent books for readers at this level, from non-fiction books on advocacy , history books , and  biographies to historical and contemporary fiction.

For example, Todd Kortemeier’s  Unsung Heroes of Social Justice  introduces readers to some of the less well-known heroes of social justice movements through time. Kaelyn Rich’s  Girls Resist!   provides a practical guide to advocacy and protest for young women (although the advice is equally relevant to other ages and genders). Cece Bell’s  El Deafo ,  Ruby Bridges and Margo Lundell’s  Through My Eyes ,  and Allen Say’s  Grandfather’s Journey   are all examples of powerful texts that celebrate diversity for this reading level.

Check Out Some of the Best Books for Third Graders

• 5 Gorgeous Animal Adventure Novels for Kids
• 4 African American Biography Books for Kids
• I Survived Graphic Novel Series Review
• 10 Outstanding Poetry Books for Kids
• 5 Excellent Audiobooks for Kids Ages 8 and Up

BOOKS FOR THIRD GRADE READERS

• Krystal Winkle and Galloping Giuseppe | Dedicated Review

Krystal Winkle and Galloping Giuseppe is a captivating addition to the Krystal Winkle series, perfect for readers who love adventure and magic.  

• Sasquatch, by Roxanne Seubert | Dedicated Review

This beautifully written middle-grade novel, Sasquatch, is both a gripping adventure and an absorbing coming-of-age story.

• True Friends Indeed, by Ralph Tufo | Dedicated Review

The third book in the series, True Friends Indeed, continues the other books’ themes, teaching readers about acceptance, inclusion, and friendship.

• Stardust: A Journey to Remember | Dedicated Review

From a child to a graduate setting off into the world, each and every reader will find something relatable within the pages of Stardust: A Journey to Remember.

• Grammy’s Treasure Hunt, by Joan Marie | Dedicated Review

In the chapter book Grammy’s Treasure Hunt, readers will discover how the impact of the choices we make in life can shape outcomes for better or worse.

The Three Stones of Ebon | Dedicated Review

The Three Stones of Ebon is well-written, exciting, and absorbing, perfect for middle-grade and pre-teen lovers of fantasy adventure. 

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Book Review Writing Examples

Examples: learn from the efforts of others.

Learning how to write strong reviews takes time and not a little effort. Reading the reviews others have done can help you get a feel for the flow and flavor of reviews.

If I Never Forever Endeavor Review by Hayden, age 4, Southeast Michigan Mensa

This book was about a bird who didn't yet know how to fly.

The bird has to decide if it will try to fly, but it was not sure if it wants to. The bird thought, "If I never forever endeavor" then I won't ever learn. On one wing, he worries he might fail and on the other wing he thinks of how he may succeed. He worries that if he tries, he may get lost in the world. That makes him want to stay in his nest where he's safe.

I think this book would help other children to learn that trying new things can be scary, but sometimes when we try, we can find things that make us happy too. And this book will help others know that mistakes are okay and part of learning.

My favorite part is that the bird tried and learned that she could fly. I also liked that I read this book because it gave me a chance to talk to mom about making mistakes and how I don't like making them. Then I learned they are good and part of learning.

Boys and girls who are 3 to 8 years old would like this book because it teaches about trying a new thing and how it's important to get past being scared so you can learn new things.

I give the book 5 stars since I think it's important for other children to learn about courage.

Flesh & Blood So Cheap Review by Umar B., age 8, Central New Jersy Mensa

I liked this book. People who are interested in national disasters and US history as well as immigration will most probably be interested in reading this book.

Readers can gain knowledge of what it was like to work in New York City in the early 1900s. One of the things that was especially interesting was that there were no safety laws at work. Also, there was a big contrast between the rich and the poor. Some people may not like this book because it is very depressing, but it is an important event in history to remember.

This book was very well written. It has black and white photos along with descriptions of the photos. These photos give us a better idea of what people's lives were like. This book is suitable for 9-20 year olds.

I give this book 5 stars.

Galaxy Zach: Journey to Juno Review by Young Mensan Connor C., age 6, Boston Mensa

Journey To Juno is the second book of the Galaxy Zack series. It is just as good as the first one. It's awesome!

Zack joins the Sprockets Academy Explorers Club at school. They fly on a special trip to Juno, a new planet no one has ever visited. Zack gets paired up with Seth, the class bully, and that's dreadful but Zack is excited when he finds a huge galaxy gemmite. A gemmite that large had not been found in 100 years! Kids will love this book!

Boys and girls will both like it. It's an easy chapter book with pictures on every page. I love the illustrations. I think ages 6-8 would like this but younger kids would like the story being read to them.

My favorite parts are the galactic blast game (it is similar to baseball except there are robots playing), recess at Zack's school where everything is 3-D holographic images, the rainbow river in a crystal cave on Juno, and the galaxy gemmite that Zack finds on Juno. I also loved when a life-size holographic image of his Earth friend appears in Zack's room because he calls him on a hyperphone. I give this book one hundred stars! There is a "to be continued" at the end so you have to read the next book see what's in store. I can't wait to find out what happens!!!

I Capture the Castle Review by Lauren W., age 17, Mensa in Georgia

Dodie Smith's novel I Capture the Castle is a journey through the mind of a young writer as she attempts to chronicle her daily life. Seventeen-year-old Cassandra Mortmain has recently learned to speed-write, and she decides to work on her writing skills by describing the actions and conversations of those around her.

Cassandra lives in a fourteenth-century English castle with an interesting cast of characters: her beautiful older sister, Rose; her rather unsociable author father and his second wife, artist-model Topaz; Stephen, the garden boy; a cat and a bull terrier; and sometimes her brother Thomas when he is home from school. One fateful day they make the acquaintance of the Cotton family, including the two sons, and a web of tangled relationships ensues.

While I definitely recommend this book to other readers, I would recommend it to older teenagers, mainly because it will resonate better with them. The writing is tame enough that younger teens could also read it, but most of the characters are adults or on the verge of adulthood. Older readers would take the most from it since they can not only relate, but they may also better pick up on and appreciate Cassandra's sometimes subtle humor.

Over the course of the novel, Cassandra undergoes a definite transformation from child to mature young adult, even though it's only over the course of several months. I love that I could see into her mindset and read exactly what she was feeling when she thought out situations. Her thoughts flowed well and moved the book along very quickly.

Cassandra's narrative voice is wonderful. She is serious at times, but also very witty, which makes for an engaging read. It feels absolutely real, as though I'm reading someone's actual journal. Sometimes I forget that I am reading a story and not a real-life account. Her emotions and the dialogue are so genuine, and they are spot-on for a seventeen-year-old girl in her situation.

Cassandra has many wonderful insights on life, on topics ranging from writing to faith to matters of the heart. I personally have had some of the same thoughts as Cassandra, except Ms. Smith was able to put them into words.

Capture the Castle should be essential reading for aspiring writers, those looking for historical fiction or romance, or anyone who loves reading amazing classic books. Dodie Smith is an exceptional writer, and I Capture the Castle is a book that will never become obsolete.

Frankenstein's Cat Review by Zander H., age 12, Mid-America Mensa

I appreciated Frankenstein's Cat for its fascinating explanation about the often baffling subject of bioengineering and its sister sciences. Emily Anthes explains the many sides of today's modern technology, such as gene modification, cloning, pharmaceutical products (from the farm), prosthesis, animal tag and tracking and gene cryogenics. This book provides a well-rounded summary of these complicated sciences without being boring or simply factual. Her real world examples take us on a journey from the farm, to the pet store and then from the pharmacy to the frozen arc.

Have you ever wondered if the neighborhood cat is spying on you? Read about Operation Acoustic Kitty and find out if this feline fantasy fiction or fact. Do you think bugs are creepy? What about a zombified cyborg beetle? Is Fido so special that you want two of him? Money can buy you an almost exact copy of your pooch BUT don't expect the same personality. Emily Anthes makes you crave more information. She makes you want to know the future of Earth's flora and fauna, as well as humanity itself.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who desires a guide to the future of biological science and technology. Frankenstein's Cat is best read by the light of a glow-in-the-dark fish, while cuddling your favorite cloned dog and drinking a glass of genetically modified milk.

About Marsupials Review by Connor C., age 6, Boston Mensa

About Marsupials is the title so the book is about...marsupials, of course. It's non-fiction. I really think everyone would like the book. I think someone who likes animals would especially like to read it.

The glossary of facts in the back of About Marsupials is the most useful part. I thought the most interesting parts were that some marsupials have their pouch at their back legs and one marsupial, the Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby, is very small but can jump 13 feet wide!

Kids in the 4-8 age range would like this book. Even though it's not a story book, 4 year olds would like the few words on each page and they would love the beautiful pictures. But older kids would like it because of all the facts in the back of the book. There's a lot of information for each animal. I think boys and girls (and parents) would enjoy reading it. This book is very interesting. I give it 4 stars.

Mapping the World Review by Umar A., age 10, Central New Jersey Mensa

Every day, people around the world use maps. Whether it is an airplane pilot or businessman, housewife or museum group, maps have always and will continue to provide useful information for all.

Mapping the World talks about the uses of maps, as well as how to differentiate between the type of map projection and type of map.

In this series, we travel to the past and learn about historical mapmakers, from Claudius Ptolemy (who stated the idea that the Earth is at the center of the universe) to Gerardus Mercator (who created one of the most widely used map projections) and more. This series goes into tremendous detail on the cartographer's life and maps. We then journey to the present era to learn about map projections and the diverse types of maps used today. You might ask, "What is the difference between the two? They sound the same to me." No map projection is perfect, because you cannot really flatten a sphere into a rectangle. An uncolored projection could be used in many ways. We could use it for population concentration, highways, land elevation, and so many other things!

For example, we could make a topographic map of the U.S., which shows land elevation. We could make it a colorful map that shows the amount of pollution in different areas, or it could be a population map, or it could even be a map that shows the 50 states, their capitals and borders! Our last step in this amazing excursion is the near future, where we see some hypothetical solutions as to what maps will be used for. Currently, we are working on better virtual map technology.

Now, scientists have been able to put maps on phones. Back in the early 1900s, people had to lug a lot of maps around to find your way from place to place, or just keep asking for directions. Now, all the information is on a phone or global positioning system (GPS). It is amazing how much maps have changed technology and the world in this century.

The Mapping the World 8-book set goes into amazing levels of detail. It is a long read, but it gives an immense range and amount of information that you would not find in any other book or series on maps. The flowing way the chapters and books are organized makes it easy to link passages from different books in this series together. Mapping the World is a treasure box, filled with the seeds of cartography. Collect and plant them, and you soon will have the fruits of cartography, beneficial to those who want to be cartographers. Use this series to the utmost, then the fruits of mapping will be sweet for all who endeavor to succeed in cartography.

This series of lessons was designed to meet the needs of gifted children for extension beyond the standard curriculum with the greatest ease of use for the educator. The lessons may be given to the students for individual self-guided work, or they may be taught in a classroom or a home-school setting. Assessment strategies and rubrics are included at the end of each section. The rubrics often include a column for "scholar points," which are invitations for students to extend their efforts beyond that which is required, incorporating creativity or higher level technical skills.

How to Write a Book Review: The Ultimate Guide

WHAT IS A BOOK REVIEW?

Traditionally, book reviews are evaluations of a recently published book in any genre. Usually, around the 500 to 700-word mark, they briefly describe a text’s main elements while appraising the work’s strengths and weaknesses. Published book reviews can appear in newspapers, magazines, and academic journals. They provide the reader with an overview of the book itself and indicate whether or not the reviewer would recommend the book to the reader.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A BOOK REVIEW?

There was a time when book reviews were a regular appearance in every quality newspaper and many periodicals. They were essential elements in whether or not a book would sell well. A review from a heavyweight critic could often be the deciding factor in whether a book became a bestseller or a damp squib. In the last few decades, however, the book review’s influence has waned considerably, with many potential book buyers preferring to consult customer reviews on Amazon, or sites like Goodreads, before buying. As a result, book review’s appearance in newspapers, journals, and digital media has become less frequent.

WHY BOTHER TEACHING STUDENTS TO WRITE BOOK REVIEWS AT ALL?

Even in the heyday of the book review’s influence, few students who learned the craft of writing a book review became literary critics! The real value of crafting a well-written book review for a student does not lie in their ability to impact book sales. Understanding how to produce a well-written book review helps students to:

●     Engage critically with a text

●     Critically evaluate a text

●     Respond personally to a range of different writing genres

●     Improve their own reading, writing, and thinking skills.

Not to Be Confused with a Book Report!

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BOOK REVIEW AND A BOOK REPORT?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are clear differences in both the purpose and the format of the two genres. Generally speaking, book reports aim to give a more detailed outline of what occurs in a book. A book report on a work of fiction will tend to give a comprehensive account of the characters, major plot lines, and themes in the book. Book reports are usually written around the K-12 age range, while book reviews tend not to be undertaken by those at the younger end of this age range due to the need for the higher-level critical skills required in writing them. At their highest expression, book reviews are written at the college level and by professional critics.

Learn how to write a book review step by step with our complete guide for students and teachers by familiarizing yourself with the structure and features.

BOOK REVIEW STRUCTURE

ANALYZE Evaluate the book with a critical mind.

THOROUGHNESS The whole is greater than the sum of all its parts. Review the book as a WHOLE.

COMPARE Where appropriate compare to similar texts and genres.

THUMBS UP OR DOWN? You are going to have to inevitably recommend or reject this book to potential readers.

BE CONSISTENT Take a stance and stick with it throughout your review.

FEATURES OF A BOOK REVIEW

PAST TENSE You are writing about a book you have already read.

EMOTIVE LANGUAGE Whatever your stance or opinion be passionate about it. Your audience will thank you for it.

VOICE Both active and passive voice are used in recounts.

A COMPLETE UNIT ON REVIEW AND ANALYSIS OF TEXTS

⭐ Make  MOVIES A MEANINGFUL PART OF YOUR CURRICULUM  with this engaging collection of tasks and tools your students will love. ⭐ All the hard work is done for you with  NO PREPARATION REQUIRED.

This collection of  21 INDEPENDENT TASKS  and  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS  takes students beyond the hype, special effects and trailers to look at visual literacy from several perspectives offering DEEP LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES by watching a  SERIES, DOCUMENTARY, FILM, and even  VIDEO GAMES.

ELEMENTS OF A BOOK REVIEW

As with any of the writing genres we teach our students, a book review can be helpfully explained in terms of criteria. While there is much to the ‘art’ of writing, there is also, thankfully, a lot of the nuts and bolts that can be listed too. Have students consider the following elements before writing:

●     Title: Often, the title of the book review will correspond to the title of the text itself, but there may also be some examination of the title’s relevance. How does it fit into the purpose of the work as a whole? Does it convey a message or reveal larger themes explored within the work?

●     Author: Within the book review, there may be some discussion of who the author is and what they have written before, especially if it relates to the current work being reviewed. There may be some mention of the author’s style and what they are best known for. If the author has received any awards or prizes, this may also be mentioned within the body of the review.

●     Genre: A book review will identify the genre that the book belongs to, whether fiction or nonfiction, poetry, romance, science-fiction, history etc. The genre will likely tie in, too with who the intended audience for the book is and what the overall purpose of the work is.

●     Book Jacket / Cover: Often, a book’s cover will contain artwork that is worthy of comment. It may contain interesting details related to the text that contribute to, or detract from, the work as a whole.

●     Structure: The book’s structure will often be heavily informed by its genre. Have students examine how the book is organized before writing their review. Does it contain a preface from a guest editor, for example? Is it written in sections or chapters? Does it have a table of contents, index, glossary etc.? While all these details may not make it into the review itself, looking at how the book is structured may reveal some interesting aspects.

●     Publisher and Price: A book review will usually contain details of who publishes the book and its cost. A review will often provide details of where the book is available too.

BOOK REVIEW KEY ELEMENTS

As students read and engage with the work they will review, they will develop a sense of the shape their review will take. This will begin with the summary. Encourage students to take notes during the reading of the work that will help them in writing the summary that will form an essential part of their review. Aspects of the book they may wish to take notes on in a work of fiction may include:

●     Characters: Who are the main characters? What are their motivations? Are they convincingly drawn? Or are they empathetic characters?

●     Themes: What are the main themes of the work? Are there recurring motifs in the work? Is the exploration of the themes deep or surface only?

●     Style: What are the key aspects of the writer’s style? How does it fit into the wider literary world?

●     Plot: What is the story’s main catalyst? What happens in the rising action? What are the story’s subplots? 

A book review will generally begin with a short summary of the work itself. However, it is important not to give too much away, remind students – no spoilers, please! For nonfiction works, this may be a summary of the main arguments of the work, again, without giving too much detail away. In a work of fiction, a book review will often summarise up to the rising action of the piece without going beyond to reveal too much!

The summary should also provide some orientation for the reader. Given the nature of the purpose of a review, it is important that students’ consider their intended audience in the writing of their review. Readers will most likely not have read the book in question and will require some orientation. This is often achieved through introductions to the main characters, themes, primary arguments etc. This will help the reader to gauge whether or not the book is of interest to them.

Once your student has summarized the work, it is time to ‘review’ in earnest. At this point, the student should begin to detail their own opinion of the book. To do this well they should:

i. Make It Personal

Often when teaching essay writing we will talk to our students about the importance of climbing up and down the ladder of abstraction. Just as it is helpful to explore large, more abstract concepts in an essay by bringing it down to Earth, in a book review, it is important that students can relate the characters, themes, ideas etc to their own lives.

Book reviews are meant to be subjective. They are opinion pieces, and opinions grow out of our experiences of life. Encourage students to link the work they are writing about to their own personal life within the body of the review. By making this personal connection to the work, students contextualize their opinions for the readers and help them to understand whether the book will be of interest to them or not in the process.

ii. Make It Universal

Just as it is important to climb down the ladder of abstraction to show how the work relates to individual life, it is important to climb upwards on the ladder too. Students should endeavor to show how the ideas explored in the book relate to the wider world. The may be in the form of the universality of the underlying themes in a work of fiction or, for example, the international implications for arguments expressed in a work of nonfiction.

iii. Support Opinions with Evidence

A book review is a subjective piece of writing by its very nature. However, just because it is subjective does not mean that opinions do not need to be justified. Make sure students understand how to back up their opinions with various forms of evidence, for example, quotations, statistics, and the use of primary and secondary sources.

EDIT AND REVISE YOUR BOOK REVIEW

As with any writing genre, encourage students to polish things up with review and revision at the end. Encourage them to proofread and check for accurate spelling throughout, with particular attention to the author’s name, character names, publisher etc. 

It is good practice too for students to double-check their use of evidence. Are statements supported? Are the statistics used correctly? Are the quotations from the text accurate? Mistakes such as these uncorrected can do great damage to the value of a book review as they can undermine the reader’s confidence in the writer’s judgement.

The discipline of writing book reviews offers students opportunities to develop their writing skills and exercise their critical faculties. Book reviews can be valuable standalone activities or serve as a part of a series of activities engaging with a central text. They can also serve as an effective springboard into later discussion work based on the ideas and issues explored in a particular book. Though the book review does not hold the sway it once did in the mind’s of the reading public, it still serves as an effective teaching tool in our classrooms today.

Teaching Resources

Use our resources and tools to improve your student’s writing skills through proven teaching strategies.

BOOK REVIEW GRAPHIC ORGANIZER (TEMPLATE)

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Book and Movie review writing examples (Student Writing Samples)

Below are a collection of student writing samples of book reviews.  Click on the image to enlarge and explore them in greater detail.  Please take a moment to both read the movie or book review in detail but also the teacher and student guides which highlight some of the key elements of writing a text review

Please understand these student writing samples are not intended to be perfect examples for each age or grade level but a piece of writing for students and teachers to explore together to critically analyze to improve student writing skills and deepen their understanding of book review writing.

We would recommend reading the example either a year above and below, as well as the grade you are currently working with to gain a broader appreciation of this text type .

BOOK REVIEW VIDEO TUTORIALS

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GOOD GRIEF...THIRD GRADE

by Colleen O’Shaughnessy McKenna ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 1, 1993

After years of growing up with Collette Murphy, readers are thrust back in time to see what Sacred Heart Elementary is like from the perspective of one of her two best friends. Marsha has vowed not to get into trouble and to make this school year a good one, especially because she likes the student teacher, Miss Murtland. But Marsha's good intentions and penchant for lying butt up against Roger Friday's natural high spirits; the combination nearly gets one of them tossed out of school. McKenna fans will like this peek at Marsha's motives, often obscure in the other stories, but Roger's scenes are the real pleasure; the author paints an intriguing portrait of a boy who seems deceptively like a potential bully—perfectly exasperating but ultimately shown to be (fairly) well-meaning. The children have funny, typical school quarrels; as a writer of light fare, McKenna again weighs in with a real look at real kids. (Fiction. 8-10)

Pub Date: Aug. 1, 1993

ISBN: 0-590-45123-5

Page Count: 152

Publisher: Scholastic

Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 15, 1993

CHILDREN'S GENERAL CHILDREN'S

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BOOK REVIEW

by Colleen O’Shaughnessy McKenna & illustrated by Stephanie Roth

by Colleen O’Shaughnessy McKenna

THE SINGING ROCK & OTHER BRAND-NEW FAIRY TALES

by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer ; illustrated by Simini Blocker ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 18, 2019

Alert readers will find the implicit morals: know your audience, mostly, but also never underestimate the power of “rock”...

The theme of persistence (for better or worse) links four tales of magic, trickery, and near disasters.

Lachenmeyer freely borrows familiar folkloric elements, subjecting them to mildly comical twists. In the nearly wordless “Hip Hop Wish,” a frog inadvertently rubs a magic lamp and finds itself saddled with an importunate genie eager to shower it with inappropriate goods and riches. In the title tale, an increasingly annoyed music-hating witch transforms a persistent minstrel into a still-warbling cow, horse, sheep, goat, pig, duck, and rock in succession—then is horrified to catch herself humming a tune. Athesius the sorcerer outwits Warthius, a rival trying to steal his spells via a parrot, by casting silly ones in Ig-pay Atin-lay in the third episode, and in the finale, a painter’s repeated efforts to create a flattering portrait of an ogre king nearly get him thrown into a dungeon…until he suddenly understands what an ogre’s idea of “flattering” might be. The narratives, dialogue, and sound effects leave plenty of elbow room in Blocker’s big, brightly colored panels for the expressive animal and human(ish) figures—most of the latter being light skinned except for the golden genie, the blue ogre, and several people of color in the “Sorcerer’s New Pet.”

Pub Date: June 18, 2019

ISBN: 978-1-59643-750-0

Page Count: 112

Publisher: First Second

Review Posted Online: April 27, 2019

Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 15, 2019

GENERAL GRAPHIC NOVELS & COMICS | CHILDREN'S GENERAL CHILDREN'S

More by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer

by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer ; illustrated by Frank W. Dormer

by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer ; illustrated by Carlyn Beccia

by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer & illustrated by Nicoletta Ceccoli

THE McELDERRY BOOK OF GREEK MYTHS

adapted by Eric A. Kimmel & illustrated by Pep Montserrat ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 5, 2008

In these 12 retellings, the Immortals come across as unusually benign. Dionysius at first suggests to King Midas that he give his excess wealth to the poor, for instance; the troubles that Pandora releases are originally imprisoned in the box by Prometheus’s brother Epimetheus out of compassion for humankind; and it’s Persephone herself who begs for a compromise that will allow her to stay with her beloved Hades for six months out of every year. Kimmel relates each tale in easy, natural-sounding language. And even though his Andromeda looks more Celtic than Ethiopian (as the oldest versions of the story have it), Montserrat’s figures combine appropriate monumentality with an appealing expressiveness. The stories are all familiar and available in more comprehensive collections, but the colorful illustrations and spacious page design make this a good choice for shared reading. (foreword) (Nonfiction. 8-10)

Pub Date: Feb. 5, 2008

ISBN: 978-1-4169-1534-8

Publisher: McElderry

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 15, 2007

More by Eric A. Kimmel

by Eric A. Kimmel ; illustrated by Feronia Parker-Thomas

by Eric A. Kimmel ; illustrated by Dov Smiley

by Eric A. Kimmel ; illustrated by Alida Massari

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2024 NFL draft: Detroit Lions’ picks garner top grades from experts

• Updated: Apr. 28, 2024, 7:52 a.m. |
• Published: Apr. 28, 2024, 7:45 a.m.

Detroit Lions first round draft pick Terrion Arnold talks to the media during an NFL football news conference at the team training facility, Friday, April 26, 2024, in Allen Park, Mich. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio) AP

• Kory Woods | [email protected]

The Detroit Lions are earning rave reviews from draft analysts across the country for their selections in the 2024 NFL draft.

In the first two rounds, the Lions added a pair of dynamic playmakers at cornerback, trading up to select Alabama’s Terrion Arnold at No. 24, then snagging Missouri’s Ennis Rakestraw Jr. at No. 61.

Between Rounds 4 and 6, the Lions bolstered their offensive line depth with Giovanni Manu and Christian Mahogany. They also secured a potential steal at defensive tackle, picking up LSU’s Mekhi Wingo, and added a versatile player in Sione Vaki, who will contribute at running back and saw time as a safety at Utah.

Here are the final grades for the Lions’ selections from draft analysts across the country:

“The Lions doubled up at corner in the first and second rounds, flexing their aggressiveness by trading a third-rounder to move up for Arnold instead of staying put and possibly selecting his ‘Bama teammate, Kool-Aid McKinstry. Detroit got fair value on Rakestraw at the end of Round 2, though the team also could have used another edge rusher or receiver.

With Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell already in place at the two bookends, the Lions were one of the few teams able to take a chance on a massive, super-athletic tackle like Manu, a developmental prospect out of Canada. Vaki could turn out to be a hammer of a running back and special teamer, but the 32-spot jump to get him cost Detroit its fourth-rounder next year.”

Pro Football Focus

Terrion Arnold — “ Detroit traded up to acquire the 14th-ranked player on the PFF big board, Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold. Arnold is an alpha presence in the secondary who plays with a fearless mentality. He led all SEC cornerbacks in interceptions and pass breakups in 2023 and led the conference with a 90.6 PFF run-defense grade. Detroit has officially overhauled its cornerback room with the additions of Arnold, Carlton Davis and Amik Robertson.”

Ennis Rakestraw — “The Lions continue to rebuild a defense that ranked 30th in coverage grade in 2023. Rakestraw, the 46th-ranked player on the PFF big board, is a physical cornerback who excels in zone coverage. He posted an 85.2 PFF zone coverage grade in 2023. The Lions have completely revamped their cornerback room in just one offseason.”

Giovanni Manu — “Manu isn’t on the PFF big board because we don’t have any data on him, but he received a lot of hype in the final weeks leading up to the draft. He ran a 4.96-second 40-yard dash at 6-foot-7 and 352 pounds.”

Sione Vaki — “ Lions fans, get ready to love Vaki, one of the most athletic players in the 2024 NFL Draft. He played safety and running back at Utah, but he is a solid safety in coverage. Don’t expect him to make exceptional plays on the football very often, but Vaki packs a mean punch. He’s a plus tackler in run defense and perfectly fits Aaron Glenn’s mentality in the Motor City.”

Mekhi Wingo — “This is a great spot to get Wingo, a good athlete for someone his size. His 84.9 run-defense grade since 2022 is the best among SEC defensive tackles in that span, and it wouldn’t be a shock to see him develop into a good rotational player in Detroit.”

Christian Mahogany — “Mahogany fell further than expected, enabling the Lions to land a bit of a steal here in the sixth round. Over the past three seasons, he has allowed just one sack and seven total quarterback pressures from 711 pass-blocking snaps.”

“I loved the team’s first-round selection of Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold, who was my top-ranked corner and 11th overall player. Arnold gives the team a plug-and-play starter and ball-hawking playmaker on the outside. GM Brad Holmes didn’t stop there, grabbing another potential future starter at cornerback in Missouri’s Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (my 42nd overall player) in the second round. Rakestraw is slightly undersized but makes up for it with his tenacious, physical style. The Lions made one of the more interesting picks of Day 3 as well, nabbing a physical marvel in University of British Columbia’s Giovanni Manu. Manu stands 6-foot-7, 352 pounds and has the athletic traits that suggest he could develop into a starting tackle for Detroit.”

“They’ve now tripled down an 27th-ranked pass defense, drafting CBs Terrion Arnold (Round 1) and Ennis Rakestraw (Round 2) – they join trade arrival Carlton Davis III – as this team continues to load up for the ever-elusive Super Bowl run. Alabama’s Arnold, in particular, should be a great culture fit and beloved figure in Motown based on his reception from the locals Thursday night.”

“The Lions were ultra aggressive in this draft, which aligns with the demeanor of Dan Campbell. Not a brilliant idea team-building wise, however the Lions are clearly very close. Rakestraw plays with similar chippiness.

Arnold is squeaky clean and has upside because of his complete game. Vaki is such an energetic safety who can do everything in any defensive back position. He’s just small. Wingo can get up the field from the inside. For as much as I love what the Lions have done over the past three years, especially in the draft, after the back-to-back cornerback picks, I didn’t love what Detroit did in this draft.”

New York Post

“One year after acing their draft with unconventional picks, the Lions focused on higher-value positions, including a trade up to steal Arnold, who was pushed down by the 14 straight offensive players at the start. Can Vaki continue playing two ways in the NFL?”

“GM Brad Holmes is the new Howie Roseman. What do I mean by that? Sensible draft choices that aggressively target areas of need, and a relentless pursuit of those picks. The Lions nabbed two of the draft’s best cornerbacks to help them patch a secondary that may have been their biggest Achilles heel last season. Holmes and coach Dan Campbell are a force together, one of the few GM and coach combinations who seem to be truly on the same page.”

The Sporting News

The Lions didn’t have much unfinished business after GM Brad Holmes crushed the draft and free agency in the two previous seasons. The top of that list by far was getting two starting-caliber cornerbacks who could fit well and make a lot of plays in Aaron Glenn’s scheme. Arnold and Rakestraw can help clean up the makeshift mess from 2023.

Latest Detroit Lions news:

• Ex-Michigan State OL and Super Bowl champion lands free agent deal
• Detroit Lions extend rookie minicamp invite to former GVSU QB
• Ex-Michigan State WR pays tribute to WWE star while touring Bills facility
• Dungeon of Doom: Analyzing the best moves, biggest risks for Lions in NFL draft
• From a shack in the South Pacific to NFL riches, Penei Sewell ready to win it all

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NFL Draft Rounds 2 and 3 grades: Eagles earn A for DeJean, Commanders get mixed reviews

Welcome to  The Athletic ’s pick-by-pick grades for Rounds 2 and 3 of the  2024 NFL Draft . If you missed them, check out our grades for all 32 picks made during Thursday night’s Round 1.

Grading in the moment is a difficult (some might even say unfair) project, and it’s true that we’ll need several years to fully get an idea of each pick’s level of success. So, our instant reactions will try to take everything into account  — pick value, trade costs, what the board looked like at the time of the selection and so on.

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Here’s how everyone did on Day 2 of the NFL Draft:

(Note: Scott Dochterman provided grades for odd-numbered picks, Nick Baumgardner for even-numbered picks.)

NFL Draft 2024 tracker:   Live blog, pick-by-pick grades and analysis Big board best available:   Who’s left from Dane Brugler’s Top 300? Full draft order:   Team picks for all 257 selections “The Athletic Football Show”:   Watch live reaction to the draft

33. Buffalo Bills (from CAR): Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

Big, physical and capable of making highlight-reel catches, Coleman ran a 4.61-second 40-yard dash at the combine — a time that may have knocked him down a few spots. But he’s a quality pickup to open the second round. In one season at Florida State, Coleman (6-3, 213) caught 50 passes for 658 yards (13.2 yards per catch) and 11 touchdowns with only two drops.

Grade: B-plus

34. Los Angeles Chargers (from NE): Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia

Arguably the most QB-friendly receiver in the draft, McConkey is all speed and precision with reliable hands and wiggle after the catch. He’s versatile enough to play multiple spots, he’ll block — McConkey easily could have a first-round pick. He’ll be Justin Herbert ’s new best friend.

35. Atlanta Falcons (from ARI): Ruke Orhorhoro, DT, Clemson

In their 3-4 defense, the Falcons always can use size up front. Orhorhoro offers that — he’s 6-foot-4 and 294 pounds with 34-inch arms. He posted 24 tackles for loss, 12 sacks and nine passes defensed combined from 2021-23. He could be a good player long-term, but to make this selection this early in the second round — and trade away a third-round pick in the process — is a bit rich.

Grade: D-plus

36. Washington Commanders : Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

A versatile and powerful interior pocket pusher who can play nose or three-tech, Newton showed dominant stretches of disruption at Illinois and was a first-rounder on a few boards. His impact wasn’t as consistent as you’d like, and his length is less than ideal — meaning he’ll have to flash dominant power far more often. It’s easy to like Newton, but would an offensive tackle have helped more?

37. New England Patriots (from LAC): Ja’Lynn Polk, WR, Washington

New England needed a threat at receiver for new quarterback Drake Maye, and it picked one up here. Tough and competitive but lacking top-end speed, Polk is not afraid to block or make difficult catches over the middle. This was probably a bit high for him, however.

Grade: C-plus

38. Tennessee Titans : T’Vondre Sweat, DT, Texas

This is a tough one. Sweat was charged with a DWI earlier this spring, but The Athletic ’s Dane Brugler reported that Sweat was open about his off-field behavior during the draft process. Football-wise, Sweat is a unique mountain of a man — 360-plus pounds with the feet and agility to play multiple spots. Can you trust him off the field? Can he keep his weight down? High-risk, high-reward pick here.

39. Los Angeles Rams (from NYG via CAR): Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State

Wow, did the Rams give up a ton (Nos. 52 and 155 plus a second-round pick next year) to move up 13 spots. Nothing against Fiske, who’s worth a second-round selection, but that’s way, way too much. Fiske (6-3, 292) won’t wow anyone with his physical abilities at this level, but his work ethic and toughness will garner immediate respect.

40. Philadelphia Eagles (from CHI via WAS): Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

Is he a corner? A safety? A nickel? It doesn’t matter. DeJean will find his way onto the field after a productive career at Iowa, in which he played both corner and nickel. He had a combined seven interceptions (three picks sixes) and 20 passes defended the past two seasons. DeJean (6-0, 203) is also an elite punt returner. The Eagles gave up a lot (Nos. 50, 53 and 161 for 40, 78 and 152), but it was well worth it.

41. New Orleans Saints (from NYJ via GB): Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

New Orleans picked up a first-round talent, at its biggest position of need, in the second round. A fluid, versatile defensive back, McKinstry started 33 games at Alabama over three seasons. He intercepted just two career passes but defended 25 others and netted five tackles for loss. McKinstry (5-11, 199) ran a 4.47 40 at his pro day, and his 10-yard split of 1.44 seconds is considered elite.

42. Houston Texans (from MIN): Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia

A physical, fluid athlete who got on the field early and often in a talented Georgia secondary, Lassiter relies on agility and good eye discipline as a well-rounded corner with plenty of upside. The problem here is Lassiter’s lack of speed (4.64 40 at his pro day), so he might be a nickel-only defender in the NFL .

43. Arizona Cardinals (from ATL): Max Melton, CB, Rutgers

Arizona needed a fast, tough defensive back to change its secondary, and it got one of the better ones left on the board. Flexible and productive, Melton became the symbol of the new/old Rutgers program under head coach Greg Schiano. A four-year starter, he had nine pass breakups and three interceptions last year.

44. Las Vegas Raiders : Jackson Powers-Johnson, G/C, Oregon

The 2023 Rimington winner as college football’s best center, Powers-Johnson is a terrific and powerful athlete who showed dominant flashes at the point of attack and on the second level as a run blocker. He dominated the Senior Bowl (as a junior), but there are some concerns here — Powers-Johnson has an injury history, including concussions, and doesn’t have a very long reach. But he is a tough football player who will advance the culture.

#Oregon 's Jackson Powers-Johnson shows a smaller gentleman where the exits are located. pic.twitter.com/XOsumMIVt8 — Nick Baumgardner (@nickbaumgardner) February 7, 2024

45. Green Bay Packers (from DEN via NO): Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Texas A&M

The Packers’ biggest need was in the secondary, and trading down four spots cost them a shot at three different cornerbacks. That stings a bit — but the Packers also had to fill a hole at linebacker, and they got the most physically gifted one in this draft. With 34-inch arms, an 80-inch wingspan and 4.51 40 speed, Cooper (6-2, 230) could shift to a full-service linebacker position.

46. Carolina Panthers (from IND): Jonathon Brooks, RB, Texas

Brooks, who was RB1 on many boards this year, missed three games last season with an ACL injury but showed terrific short-area quicks during an 1,100-yard 2023. A good receiver with reliable hands, Brooks has a lot of upside. Same time, the Panthers — a team that still can’t protect Bryce Young — just traded up in the second round for a running back.

Grade: B-minus

47. New York Giants (from SEA): Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota

Maybe the most underrated player in the draft, Nubin was both a solid coverage safety and a tremendous tackler at Minnesota. He will step in immediately for Xavier McKinney and thrive. Nubin finished his career with a school-record 13 interceptions and 24 passes defended, as well as 207 tackles. He’s a Day 1 starter.

48. Jacksonville Jaguars : Maason Smith, DT, LSU

One of the biggest dudes in this class, Smith exploded on the scene as a freshman at LSU. Then he tore his ACL in the opener of his sophomore year and hasn’t quite been the same since. The injury history combined with Smith’s body type (6-5, 306) is concerning. If he pans out, it’ll certainly fill a need.

49. Cincinnati Bengals : Kris Jenkins, DT, Michigan

Cincinnati needed a replacement for D.J. Reader , and it couldn’t have found a better fill-in than Jenkins. At Michigan, Jenkins (6-2, 299) tied up blockers for the national champions — he finished with 36 tackles, including four for loss, and two sacks last fall. And perhaps playing a different role will help him even more statistically.

50. Washington Commanders (from NO via PHI): Mike Sainristil, CB, Michigan

Sainristil’s toughness and IQ are off-the-charts good, and his leadership is special. A major culture changer at Michigan, Sainristil is small, but he’s a good athlete and very, very hard to fool. He’ll be a contributor on Day 1. But the Commanders  still have to draft offensive line help at some point — it’s getting hard to stress this more.

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51. Pittsburgh Steelers : Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia

If there’s anyone who was built to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers, it’s Frazier. This is a perfect match — and it could be one for a long time. Among the most consistent offensive linemen in the draft, Frazier started 46 games (38 at center) for the Mountaineers. He was a four-time high school heavyweight wrestling champion and a second-team All-American center last fall.

52. Indianapolis Colts (from LAR via CAR): Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

Now we’re talking. Rather than go receiver in the first round, GM Chris Ballard opted for his top edge (Laiatu Latu). And Mitchell — a big, long, fast and explosive X receiver who can line up all over the field — could have been in Round 1 himself. He has to be more consistent and continue maturing, but goodness, there is upside here. This is potentially a great fit for Anthony Richardson .

53. Washington Commanders (from PHI): Ben Sinnott, TE, Kansas State

This has nothing to do with Sinnott, who is a salt-of-the-earth success story and went from walk-on to All-Big 12 — he’s a great blocking tight end. But the Commanders had three second-rounders and a huge need at tackle, and ignored that need all three times. There were quality tackles there. Washington … what are you doing?

Grade: D-minus

54. Cleveland Browns : Mike Hall Jr., DT, Ohio State

The fastest defensive tackle in the class, Hall ran a 4.75 (at 290 pounds) during Ohio State’s pro day and has one of the best first-step bursts out there. As an interior pass rusher, Hall has major upside. As a run defender, Hall has a long way to go and needs to be more consistent and gap sound. This is solid value, as Hall is good enough to contribute, but Cleveland doesn’t have many picks and could’ve used more O-line help.

55. Miami Dolphins : Patrick Paul, OT, Houston

This is a solid pick, with tons of upside. At Houston, Paul started 44 games at left tackle, and he has the size (6-7, 331) and massive arms (36 1/4 inches, 86-inch wingspan) to develop into that position in the NFL. Paul could become Terron Armstead ’s replacement, perhaps as soon as this fall.

56. Dallas Cowboys : Marshawn Kneeland, Edge, Western Michigan

In what was a pretty thin year for edges, Kneeland flashed as much as, or more than, anyone at that position. His production was inconsistent and does not match his ability — but when he was on, he was a dominant force in the MAC. There was some buzz Kneeland might creep into the first round. He’s one of the better run defender-pass rusher combinations in the class. Great value for the Cowboys, at a position  of need.

57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers : Chris Braswell, Edge, Alabama

It seems like every year Tampa Bay takes an early swing for an edge rusher, but it always makes sense to do so. Braswell finished with eight sacks, 10.5 tackles for loss and a team-best three forced fumbles last season, despite making only two starts. Although undersized, Braswell (6-3, 251) shows plenty of upside and is a proficient kick blocker. He could wind up being a player like Leonard Floyd .

58. Green Bay Packers: Javon Bullard, S, Georgia

The Packers made a splash in free agency, signing Xavier McKinney, but still had a need for safety depth. This was the perfect range to find one, and Bullard — a tough, physical and highly intelligent player — will have time and room to grow. He also could get on the field as a nickel or safety right away.

Grade: A-minus

59. Houston Texans: Blake Fisher, OT, Notre Dame

The Texans needed some help at right tackle opposite Laremy Tunsil , and they found a player who fills that need. With 34 3/8-inch arms, Fisher (6-5, 310) has the measurables to play tackle in the NFL. He started 26 games at right tackle for Notre Dame and has a shot to start at that position as a rookie.

60. Buffalo Bills: Cole Bishop, S, Utah

A big, speedy safety who made nearly 200 career tackles (including 21.5 for loss), Bishop played a lot in the box as a nickel defender, as well as deep at safety. A very instinctive player who’s sometimes too aggressive, Bishop is explosive and versatile. He could be a starter sooner rather than later. Washington State’s Jaden Hicks might have been the better option, but this is a solid choice at an area of need.

Utah safety Cole Bishop was everywhere on the Florida tape. 11 tkls, 1.0 sack and this forced fumble. Starting on the near hash, he covers a ton of ground to blow up the scrambling QB. Love his competitive urgency! pic.twitter.com/bEpZwfZkHk — Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) September 1, 2023

61. Detroit Lions : Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri

Cornerback was Detroit’s primary weakness entering the draft. The Lions have addressed that issue with a pair of quality cornerbacks, Terrion Arnold and now Rakestraw, in the first two rounds. The aggressive Rakestraw (5-11, 183) missed four games last year with a groin injury, but he had 24 career passes defended over 36 games at Missouri.

62. Baltimore Ravens : Roger Rosengarten, OT, Washington

An outstanding athlete (who played opposite Troy Fautanu in college), Rosengarten’s more of a traits-based project right now than a finished product — but his speed and footwork make him an intriguing, interchangeable tackle. He needs to get stronger and become more consistent with his technique, but he’s a versatile piece in an area where Baltimore had to get better.

63. Kansas City Chiefs (from SF): Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU

The Chiefs traded up one spot to secure an athletic marvel at tackle. Raw but oozing with potential, Suamataia (6-4, 326) started 11 games at left tackle and 12 at right tackle for BYU. It might take some time, but with 34 1/4-inch arms and a 5.04-second 40, Suamataia has the physical skills to secure a long-term starting tackle spot by midseason — or in 2025.

64. San Francisco 49ers (from KC): Renardo Green, CB, Florida State

A five-year player who appeared in more than 50 college games, Green is a competitive press corner with great length and physicality, both in coverage and against the run. He’s small, however, and might have issues with stronger receivers. The offensive tackle board sort of wiped out before this pick, so cornerback made sense — but there might have been better CB options.

65. New York Jets (from CAR): Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky

The Jets moved up seven spots to grab one of the most productive receivers in college football — Corley (5-10, 207) totaled 253 catches for 2,968 yards and 29 scores over his last three seasons. Known as “the YAC king,” Corley averaged 9.2 yards after the catch in his last two years combined. He’s physical, tough and made to play the slot in the NFL. Expect him to make some difficult catches for Aaron Rodgers .

66. Arizona Cardinals: Trey Benson, RB, Florida State

The production doesn’t match the explosion or testing from Benson, who is a terrific open field runner, both out of the backfield and as a receiver at 216 pounds. Benson never broke 1,000 rushing yards in a season, but he also has just 300 college carries on his body. You could’ve made a case for a linebacker here, but Benson underneath and Marvin Harrison Jr. over the top? Kyler Murray will dig that.

67. Washington Commanders: Brandon Coleman, OT, TCU

It took far too long, but the Commanders finally landed an offensive tackle. A former junior-college player, Coleman started 34 games at TCU with 22 of those coming at left tackle. Blessed with long arms (34 7/8 inches) and good size (6-4, 313), Coleman might get pressed into service earlier than he’s ready, but he eventually can develop into a solid starting tackle.

68. New England Patriots: Caedan Wallace, OT, Penn State

The right tackle opposite Olu Fashanu at Penn State, Wallace is a huge man (10 3/4-inch hands and 34-inch arms). He also plays with great explosion and good speed into the second level as a road-grading blocker. Wallace is 24 years old, and there are some technique inconsistencies that might just be part of life, but he’s a powerful run blocker who moves people at the point of attack.

69. Los Angeles Chargers: Junior Colson, LB, Michigan

Nobody knows Colson better than Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh, and the linebacker fills a need on the field — and in the locker room. An inspirational force for the national champs, Colson led the Wolverines in tackles each of the last two seasons. Physical and athletic, Colson (6-2, 238) will exude professionalism and garner instant respect.

70. New York Giants: Andru Phillips, CB, Kentucky

One of the most versatile corners in the draft, Phillips can play inside or outside — and even safety, if need be. A very physical, hyper-competitive player who will find a way to get on the field immediately, Phillips boasts a 42-inch vertical and plays with terrific speed. He’s also a very mature youngster from a high-achieving family. An easy favorite among the Day 2 cornerbacks.

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71. Arizona Cardinals (from TEN): Isaiah Adams, G, Illinois

Arizona needed some depth and toughness on the offensive line, and Adams provides it. Although he may not start right away, Adams has the skills to work into a starting role, perhaps by Year 2. After two collegiate seasons in Canada and two in junior college, Adams (6-4, 315) developed into a key starter for the Illini (14 starts at left guard, 10 at right tackle).

72. Carolina Panthers (from NYJ): Trevin Wallace, LB, Kentucky

A rangy, big linebacker, Wallace (6-1, 237) has enough speed and burst to be a three-down linebacker in the NFL — and there’s nothing wrong with the slot where he landed. However, Carolina (1) traded up for a receiver who needs a lot of technique work ( Xavier Legette ), (2) traded up for a running back (Jonathon Brooks), and (3) selected a linebacker. The Panthers had more pressing needs.

73. Dallas Cowboys (from MIN via DET): Cooper Beebe, G, Kansas State

Dallas is rebuilding its offensive line and may have picked up the steal of the draft thus far. Not to get too hyperbolic, but Beebe has some parallels to another third-round pick from 17 years ago: Marshal Yanda, by Baltimore. Beebe was a consensus first-team All-American last year and boasts 48 career starts at three different positions.

Grade: A-plus

74. Atlanta Falcons: Bralen Trice, Edge, Washington

A bit of an acquired taste, Trice’s lack of size (32 1/2-inch arms) and speed (4.72 40) certainly gave plenty of folks pause during the evaluation process. His work ethic, competitive drive and general violence at the point of attack, though, will make him a presence on an NFL roster. He might not be an every-down star, but he’s a high-floor player.

75. Chicago Bears : Kiran Amegadjie, OT, Yale

Chicago GM Ryan Poles is known for addressing his offensive line, so it’s no surprise he did so here. But with glaring holes at defensive tackle and defensive end, this is a boom-or-bust choice. Amegadjie (6-5, 323) has left tackle arm length (36 1/8 inches) and was a two-time All-Ivy League offensive lineman, despite playing just four games in 2023 because of a torn left quad. Still, this might have been a reach.

Grade: C-minus

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76. Denver Broncos : Jonah Elliss, Edge, Utah

Elliss, son of former NFL defensive tackle Luther Elliss, is a smaller edge rusher who doesn’t have great testing numbers — but he made a lot of plays at Utah, because of his effort and general awareness. A highly productive defender who has a deep bag of tricks, Elliss is more of a third-down pass rusher than a three-down edge. He’ll make plays in the right scheme, though.

77. Las Vegas Raiders: Delmar Glaze, G/T, Maryland

Las Vegas reached at this pick and missed on a few obvious needs by doing so. Glaze (6-4, 315) is a prospect many scouts saw as guard — and probably a fourth-round prospect. The Raiders have yet to address their defense, which is what they needed coming into Friday. Glaze might develop into a starter, but his selection doesn’t match either need or value.

78. Houston Texans (from SEA via WAS/PHI): Calen Bullock, DB, USC

Long and thin with good speed, Bullock plays under control in coverage and could even take some corner reps, if need be. A ballhawk with a lot of range, Bullock (188 pounds) is very light for his frame and better versus the pass than as a run defender. He’s a nice player, but maybe not the best safety available here.

79. Indianapolis Colts (from JAX via ATL/ARI): Matt Goncalves, G/T, Pitt

Indianapolis moved up three spots to grab Goncalves, who played both left and right tackle at Pitt. Goncalves (6-6, 327) is a powerful mauler who’s more than likely to kick inside in the pros. This was too high for Goncalves, who was projected as a fifth-rounder — and that’s especially true considering the Colts traded up.

80. Cincinnati Bengals: Jermaine Burton, WR, Alabama

One of the more improved receivers in this class over the last two seasons, Burton blossomed into a big-time ball tracker in the air and made a ton of key plays for Alabama. He didn’t have the type of college career people expected, however, after transferring early on. But he did finish better than he started and has room to grow.

Grade: B 

81. Seattle Seahawks (from NO via DEN): Christian Haynes, G, UConn

This might wind up a steal for the Seahawks, who are trying to fortify the interior of both lines. One of the top offensive linemen in college football for multiple years, Haynes started 49 career games at right guard over four seasons. He was known for his physical play, power and leadership qualities.

82. Arizona Cardinals (from IND): Tip Reiman, TE, Illinois

Built like a professional wrestler, Reiman (6-4, 271) is more of a traits prospect right now, but he’s a phenomenal athlete. He loves to run block, too — takes it seriously and wants to get better at moving people. He has great technique at the point of attack and room to grow as a receiver. This is a sneaky good pick and hands Arizona one of the top sleepers in the NFL Draft.

83. Los Angeles Rams: Blake Corum, RB, Michigan

Built like a bowling ball, Corum (5-7, 205) is strong, tough and durable. He attacks the hole with incredible quickness and power that belies his frame. Corum set the Michigan single-season touchdown mark in 2023 with 27 scores and holds the Wolverines’ career touchdown record with 58. He will provide a nastiness to the Rams’ run game.

84. Pittsburgh Steelers: Roman Wilson, WR, Michigan

One of the most reliable senior receivers in the class, Wilson’s sudden explosion and speed at the line of scrimmage are difference-makers. His route running and catch consistency only got better with every week at Michigan, too. A big-time competitor who will block his butt off, Wilson makes for not only great value in the third round, but a perfect fit for what the Steelers want to do moving forward.

Michigan WR Roman Wilson: One of the most reliable pass-catchers in the country. In mobile at 186 pounds this week. pic.twitter.com/FzPdwImkLa — Nick Baumgardner (@nickbaumgardner) January 30, 2024

85. Cleveland Browns: Zak Zinter, G, Michigan

A tone-setter at Michigan, Zinter was an All-American and two-time All-Big Ten guard. He missed the last three games of Michigan’s title run with a broken leg, but that didn’t detract from a stellar career. Zinter (6-6, 309) was considered the Wolverines’ best lineman last year and is a true mauler at the point of attack. The best part: He won’t have to start right away.

86. San Francisco 49ers (from PHI via HOU/IND/PHI): Dominick Puni, G/T, Kansas

A bit surprising Puni made it this far down the line. The Kansas standout is a guard/tackle prospect who got a lot of pass-protection work in college but also translates well to guard. A big man (33 3/8-inch arms, 10 1/8-inch hands), Puni needs to make sure he’s consistent with his bend — especially if he sticks outside — but there is a lot of potential here. He might even be able to play center.

87. Dallas Cowboys: Marist Liufau, LB, Notre Dame

After a brilliant first two rounds, the Cowboys reached here — Liufau (6-2, 234) was a projected sixth-round prospect. He is a high-energy player and likely a four-facet special teamer, but this was way too high. There were multiple starting-caliber interior linebackers available at this point. Liufau might get there, just not for a few years.

88. Green Bay Packers: MarShawn Lloyd, RB, USC

A bowling ball with wheels, Lloyd is a 220-pounder with 4.46 speed and a lot of burst in and out of his cuts. He has fewer than 300 college carries on his body, too, and averaged better than seven yards per rush last season. He’s a three-down back who can catch passes. This was a need for Green Bay, and Lloyd will be ready to contribute right away.

89. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Tykee Smith, S, Georgia

Tampa Bay once again plucked a solid defensive player that filled a need. Smith (5-10, 202), who ran a 4.46 40 at the combine, looks like a nickel and played on one of college football’s top defenses. He should be a plug-and-play defender for the Bucs.

90. Arizona Cardinals (from HOU): Elijah Jones, CB, Boston College

A 24-year-old, six-year college player who dealt with several injuries, Jones had his best coverage year in 2023 (five interceptions and 13 pass breakups in nine games). He’s big, long and a good athlete — but he’s also skinny and not very strong. A risk-reward player, Jones has good press skills and comes with a lot of question marks.

Grade: C 

91. Green Bay Packers (from BUF): Ty’Ron Hopper, LB, Missouri

The Packers opted for a second linebacker (after taking Edgerrin Cooper in Round 2). Hopper (6-2. 228), a projected fifth-round pick, is a quality athlete who’s likely headed for a special-teams role. It might take a few years before Hopper challenges for a starting job, and Green Bay really could have used a cornerback here.

92. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from DET): Jalen McMillan, WR, Washington

The third member of Washington’s elite WR trio – and the sixth member of the Huskies’ 2023 offense — off the board. McMillan is a long inside receiver with the body to line up outside (6-1, 203) and enough burst to create separation over the middle or vertically. He missed games with a knee injury and isn’t very strong as a blocker, but McMillan can be a big-play threat when he’s healthy.

93. Baltimore Ravens: Adisa Isaac, Edge, Penn State

Once again, Baltimore comes away with a productive, high-value pick. Playing opposite Chop Robinson, Isaac led Penn State with 7.5 sacks and 16 tackles for loss last year. A team captain, Isaac (6-4. 247) was a defensive leader for the Nittany Lions, and he is well-rounded as a pass rusher and run defender. Blessed with long arms (33 7/8 inches), Isaac often doesn’t allow tackles to get their hands on him in pass-rush situations. This is value meeting need.

94. Philadelphia Eagles (from SF): Jalyx Hunt, Edge, Houston Christian

A high school wide receiver and a safety at Cornell before he bulked up at Houston Christian, Hunt is now a 6-3, 252-pound edge rusher with 10-inch hands and 34 3/8-inch arms. A former basketball player with elite burst and great speed, Hunt is more traits than polish right now. The upside is there, though, and the positional versatility he offers is highly intriguing.

95. Buffalo Bills (from KC): DeWayne Carter, DT, Duke

A highly respected three-year starter, Carter (6-3, 302) can immediately step into the Bills’ rotation and be an impact performer. Buffalo lost a ton of leadership during an offseason purge, but Carter will help fill that void. He’s a physical, relentless interior defender. This is a good pickup by the Bills, and a player who fits their culture.

96. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jarrian Jones, CB, Florida State

Another nickel corner off the board. Jones (5-11, 190) ran a 4.38 40 at the combine and plays with terrific burst and speed, both in press and zone. He makes plays, but he’s also a gambler who takes too many chances and gets caught looking. This cornerback class, especially inside at nickel, is all about team preference. Arguably, there were better options here.

97. Cincinnati Bengals: McKinnley Jackson, DT, Texas A&M

The Bengals have made it abundantly clear in this draft that they want to bulk up in the trenches. In Jackson, Cincinnati added a defensive tackle who will eat up space and spell the starters for a few years. Jackson (6-1, 326) was projected as a sixth-rounder, so this is a reach, but he might help keep the Bengals’ starters fresh for a series each half.

98. Pittsburgh Steelers (from PHI): Payton Wilson, LB, NC State

A tackling machine with sideline-to-sideline speed (4.43 40), Wilson made 402 tackles in his career and is one of the fastest and most instinctive tacklers in this class. There are major injury concerns, however. In fact, NFL Network reported Friday that Wilson has no ACL in one of his knees. He might not make it beyond his first contract (he’s already 24 years old), but Wilson is ready to play right now — if he stays healthy.

99. Los Angeles Rams: Kamren Kinchens, S, Miami

A two-time All-ACC selection, Kinchens (5-11, 203) had a combined 11 interceptions and 22 passes defended the last two seasons. He’s not the fastest defensive back (4.65 40 time), but Kinchens is instinctive, tough and a tremendous blitzer. He’s also a special-teams demon and will help the Rams in all facets. A terrific pickup at the end of the third round.

100. Washington Commanders (from SF): Luke McCaffrey, WR, Rice

A member of the famous McCaffrey family, Luke McCaffrey (Christian’s brother and Ed’s son) is a big, explosive target with great speed and movement skills. A former college quarterback, McCaffrey’s first year as a receiver came in 2022 at Rice, and he produced 58 catches for 723 yards and six TDs. A growing prospect and a nice player — however, probably not the best receiver on the board here.

Why Luke McCaffrey is such an intriguing draft prospect

(Illustration: Eamonn Dalton / The Athletic ; Photo of Cooper DeJean: Matthew Holst / Getty Images)

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