3rd grade book review example

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

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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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60 3rd Grade Books To Add to Your Classroom Library

Third grade should be a year of awesome books.

Third graders are in the sweet spot between innocent and independent, and it’s such fun to share a wide range of books with them. You’ve got your old standbys, but fresh titles are always needed. Here are 60 recent third grade books we think could become your new favorites to read aloud and offer to students.

1. I’m From by Gary Gray Jr.

This mesmerizing memoir poem of one boy’s school day shows readers that everyone is from a rich, detailed “somewhere.” From the bus driver’s threats to “SIT DOWN” to school “books that don’t click with me,” to buttermilk biscuits and baked beans for dinner, the text overflows with small but meaningful details. We’re definitely adding this to our third grade books inspire students’ own poetry or narrative writing.

Buy it: I’m From on Amazon

2. I Am Every Good Thing by Derrick Barnes and Gordon C. James

This inspirational book exudes Black joy  as it celebrates black boys’ resilience, creativity, perseverance, and kindness. There are so many concrete examples to which all students can connect, and the language is guaranteed to leave readers energized and inspired. Read this one every year!

Buy it: I Am Every Good Thing on Amazon

3. Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away by Meg Medina

It’s moving day for Daniela’s best friend and neighbor, Evelyn Del Rey. Daniela narrates their final moments together in heart-wrenching detail as she lists all the reasons she’ll miss her friend. We love this story for discussing characters’ emotional responses to events, and as a writing mentor text when studying narrative voice.

Buy it: Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away on Amazon

4. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson

We just can’t stop reading this one again and again. Encourage students to find their voices and connect with one another.

Buy it: The Day You Begin on Amazon

5. My Baba’s Garden by Jordan Scott

This gorgeous title is perfect for conversations about kindness and as a narrative-writing mentor text . A young boy spends lots of time at his grandmother’s tiny house, enjoying her delicious cooking and helping in her garden. When her house is torn down and she moves in with the boy and his parents, he tries to repay her kindness by evoking happy memories.

Buy it: My Baba’s Garden on Amazon

6. The Walking School Bus by Aaron Friedland and Ndileka Mandela

It’s too dangerous for siblings Shaka and Nandi to walk alone to school when their father gets a new job. They’re so disappointed not to be able to attend that they think up a community-based solution: They encourage lots of local children to travel together as a walking “school bus.” Add this to your third grade books to read aloud and spend time thinking and discussing as a group. The back matter gives more information about kids’ real-life obstacles in getting to school.  

Buy it: The Walking School Bus on Amazon

7. The One Day House by Julia Durango

Wilson longs to help Gigi fix up her house, even though she reassures him his company is more than enough. One day, with the support of his community, he’s able to realize his intentions.

Buy it: The One Day House on Amazon

8. The Very Last Castle by Travis Jonker

This traditional tale with a twist stars Ibb, the one girl brave enough to investigate who actually lives in the old castle that stands in the middle of town. Rumors run rampant, but the truth surprises everyone.

Buy it: The Very Last Castle on Amazon

9. The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad

Faizah admires her older sister on her first day of hijab—both for wearing her “proudest” color blue with strength and beauty and for resisting the hurtful words of others. This inspirational story is written by the first female Muslim American Olympic medalist.

Buy it: The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family on Amazon

10. Drawn Together by Minh Lê and Dan Santat

Remind students about the many forms of communication with this gorgeous, almost wordless title. A boy and his grandfather speak different languages, but they connect through art.

Buy it: Drawn Together on Amazon

11. Hurricane by John Rocco

John Rocco’s disaster stories are so fun to read aloud, and they’re fantastic for inspiring kids’ own narrative writing . When a hurricane tears through the area, a young boy’s favorite spot, the neighborhood dock, is wrecked. Can it be rebuilt? This would be fun to share as part of a weather unit too.

Buy it: Hurricane on Amazon

12. Still This Love Goes On by Buffy Sainte-Marie and Julie Flett

This gorgeous illustrated version of a song by an award-winning Cree singer-songwriter will take your breath away. Share it as part of a study of indigenous cultures, to practice determining themes, or to inspire student poetry. (We also just really want to see a school chorus concert with kids singing this song!)

Buy it: Still This Love Goes On on Amazon

13. Copycat: Nature-Inspired Design Around the World by Christy Hale

Tanka poems, stunning photos, and fascinating back matter give kids an introduction to biomimicry—design that imitates nature. This is a unique addition to your third grade STEM books, for sure.

Buy it: Copycat: Nature-Inspired Design Around the World on Amazon

14. Counting in Dog Years and Other Sassy Math Poems by Betsy Franco

We love third grade books that do double duty. These funny poems will also help kids practice math concepts like multiplication and fractions.

Buy it: Counting in Dog Years and Other Sassy Math Poems on Amazon

15. The Great Banned-Books Bake Sale by Aya Khalil

Kanzi, star of the book The Arabic Quilt: An Immigrant Story , is shocked to find an entire display of diverse books gone from her school library. Her class learns that the books have been banned by their district, and they decide to take action. They plan a bake sale and protest. Share this title to educate students about the issue of book banning and to share a relatable example of kid-powered activism.

Buy it: The Great Banned-Books Bake Sale on Amazon

16. Listen: How Evelyn Glennie, a Deaf Girl, Changed Percussion by Shannon Stocker

This story of defying expectations is one of our new favorite third grade books to spark classroom discussion. Don’t miss the author’s note: It explains how the author, also a disabled musician, used her own experiences and real-life conversations with the book’s subject to make sure her writing was authentic.

Buy it: Listen: How Evelyn Glennie, a Deaf Girl, Changed Percussion on Amazon

17. The Next President: The Unexpected Beginnings and Unwritten Future of America’s Presidents by Kate Messner

Here’s a creative and empowering take on an informational book about presidents. What were future presidents doing when their predecessors took office? Students can begin to think about where great leaders start and explore their own potential.

Buy it: The Next President on Amazon

18. Butterflies Belong Here: A Story of One Idea, Thirty Kids, and a World of Butterflies by Deborah Hopkinson

A girl who is a recent immigrant finds her voice through environmental activism. When she notices there are no monarch butterflies in her community, she leads efforts to plant a monarch way station. Share this story to help kids find their own passions, make plans, and create change.

Buy it: Butterflies Belong Here on Amazon

19. Respect: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul by Carole Boston Weatherford

This title packs powerful messaging into sparse text and gorgeous artwork in a way that reminds us of Martin’s Big Words by Doreen Rappaport. This is an excellent addition to a collection of biography mentor texts. Mentions of Aretha’s performances at multiple presidential inaugurations tie this title to election conversations too.

Buy it: Respect: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul on Amazon

20. Digging for Words: José Alberto Gutiérrez and the Library He Built by Angela Burke Kunkel

Parallel stories tell of a Colombian garbage collector who salvages discarded books and a young boy who waits all week for library day. This narrative nonfiction title is a heartwarming celebration of the power of books to both transport and connect readers.

Buy it: Digging for Words: José Alberto Gutiérrez and the Library He Built on Amazon

21. Show and Tell! Great Graphs and Smart Charts: An Introduction to Infographics by Stuart J. Murphy

Today’s kids are living in a visual world. Introduce bar graphs, pie charts, pictographs, and line graphs with fun illustrations and examples. Great for launching a math unit about representing data.

Buy it: Show and Tell! Great Graphs and Smart Charts on Amazon

22. Blue: A History of the Color as Deep as the Sea and as Wide as the Sky by Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond

This unique and captivating book is one for every social studies classroom! Get students thinking about connections across history, science, geography, and the arts through the lens of the color blue.

Buy it: Blue on Amazon

23. Go Show the World: A Celebration of Indigenous Heroes by Wab Kinew

This book offers brief introductions to a variety of notable figures in history, sports, medicine, and more. The author’s note gives a helpful context.

Buy it: Go Show the World: A Celebration of Indigenous Heroes on Amazon

24. If You’re a Kid Like Gavin by Gavin Grimm and Kyle Lukoff

This OwnVoices story of transgender activist Gavin Grimm is empowering and important for all kids. Gavin made headlines for bravely speaking out about his right to choose which bathroom to use at school. Teachers will find the language so useful for building a classroom community in which transgender individuals—and all individuals—can be supported and celebrated.

Buy it: If You’re a Kid Like Gavin on Amazon

25. Made for Each Other: Why Dogs and People Are Perfect Partners by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent

This impeccably organized and focused title is perfect for introducing an author’s message in nonfiction. Bonus: adorable dog photos!

Buy it: Made for Each Other: Why Dogs and People Are Perfect Partners on Amazon

26. Breaking Through the Clouds: The Sometimes Turbulent Life of Meteorologist Joanne Simpson by Sandra Nickel

Joanne Simpson was the first woman to receive a doctorate in meteorology. Her research changed the world’s understanding of clouds. Expand kids’ understanding of the field of weather studies with this fascinating biography.

Buy it: Breaking Through the Clouds on Amazon

27. Starstruck: The Cosmic Journey of Neil deGrasse Tyson by Kathleen Krull and Paul Brewer

“America’s Astrophysicist,” the charismatic Neil deGrasse Tyson started out as a regular city kid focused on friends and fun—and on learning as much about the stars as he possibly could. We love how this biography shows that not all scientists are introverts.

Buy it: Starstruck: The Cosmic Journey of Neil deGrasse Tyson on Amazon

28. Killer Underwear Invasion! How To Spot Fake News, Disinformation & Conspiracy Theories, by Elise Gravel

Put this one at the top of your pile of third grade books about media literacy. One of our favorite authors takes on the timely topics of fake news, confirmation bias, fact vs. opinion, and credible sources. The outlandish examples and silly illustrations make this important content memorable for kids.

Buy it: Killer Underwear Invasion!  on Amazon

29. The Water Lady: How Darlene Arviso Helps a Thirsty Navajo Nation by Alice B. McGinty

Every day Darlene Arviso drives kids to school and then uses her school bus to deliver clean water to families of the Navajo Nation. This powerful true story, along with the author’s note, will give classrooms lots to discuss. It could easily inspire wonder, research, and activism too.

Buy it: The Water Lady: How Darlene Arviso Helps a Thirsty Navajo Nation on Amazon

30. Wait! What? series by Dan Gutman

When we learned that Dan Gutman had a biography series, we knew we’d love it. These titles introduce famous historical personalities from a kid-centered perspective. Each book is formatted as a conversation between two siblings who try to one-up each other with interesting facts about the book’s subject that go beyond “stuff your teacher wants you to know.” Add these to your third grade biography books collection for the kids who say biographies are boring!

Buy it: Wait! What? series on Amazon

31. The Skull: A Tyrolean Folktale by Jon Klassen

This retold Austrian folktale is moderately creepy, but it has heartwarming messages about friendship too. A girl named Otilla runs away from home. She happens upon a grand abandoned house in the forest and befriends a skull that lives there, proving her loyalty when the skull’s skeleton body comes looking for it. The afterword is especially interesting to share with third graders when you study folktales. The author talks about how he arrived at this particular retelling and the power of folktales to be uniquely shaped by each person who enjoys them.

Buy it: The Skull: A Tyrolean Folktale on Amazon

32. City of Dragons series by Jaimal Yogis and Vivian Truong

Set in present-day Hong Kong, this graphic novel series stars Grace, who’s given a mysterious egg that hatches into a water dragon she calls Nate. Grace and her new friends have to protect Nate from unsavory characters. The mix of Chinese mythology with modern themes like making new friends and teamwork make these ideal third grade books.

Buy it: City of Dragons series on Amazon

33. Locker 37 series by Aaron Starmer

Wouldn’t it be perfect if there was a way to fix any problem that’s ruining your school day? At Hopewell Elementary, select students can rely on Locker 37, a magical trove of helpful tools. Fast-paced and relatable, these are excellent third grade books to keep your students reading.

Buy it: The Magic Eraser (Locker 37 #1) on Amazon

34. Dragons in a Bag series by Zetta Elliott

When his mom drops him off with Ma, a mysterious character from her own childhood, Jaxon has no idea he’ll travel into the world of magic and end up in charge of baby dragons. We love this urban fantasy series.

Buy it: Dragons in a Bag series on Amazon

35. Best Wishes series by Sarah Mlynowski and various authors

We love this author’s other magic-themed series ( Whatever After and Upside-Down Magic ) so we’re definitely adding this new set of stories starring diverse characters to our third grade books. In each title, a girl in distress receives a magic bracelet in the mail that promises to grant wishes.

Buy it: Best Wishes series on Amazon

36. Just Harriet series by Elana K. Arnold

Many reviewers compare these quiet titles to Beverly Cleary’s beloved Ramona series. Harriet Wermer loves to puzzle over mysteries during her summer stay on Marble Island. She also, it turns out, tends to stretch the truth … often. This can make it hard to get adults to listen to her. Share these titles with your third graders who love relatable, endearing characters.

Buy it: Just Harriet series on Amazon

37. The Magnificent Makers series by Theanne Griffith

This series stars third graders Violet and Pablo as they take science-themed adventures that include transport by magical science instruments to a challenge-filled Maker Maze, a guide that reminds us of Miss Frizzle, and fun project directions for home. As a neuroscientist and a mom, this author knows what will get kids excited about reading and science!

Buy it: Magnificent Makers series on Amazon

38. Julieta and the Diamond Enigma by Luisana Duarte Armendáriz

A father-daughter pair navigates a Paris art heist in this fast-moving story packed with tons of interesting background information for kids. It’s perfect for third grade readers who love mysteries, travel adventures, and plucky, determined main characters. It would also be a popular chapter book for a class read-aloud.

Buy it: Julieta and the Diamond Enigma on Amazon

39. The Magnificent Mya Tibbs series by Crystal Allen

These sweet stories will take students to small-town Texas, where 9-year-old Mya navigates the ups and downs of family life and school with plenty of spunk. A great series for a third grade library.

Buy it: The Magnificent Mya Tibbs series on Amazon

40. Marya Khan series by Saadia Faruqi

This series opener from the author of the popular Yasmin early reader series is ideal for third graders. In the series opener, Marya is desperate for an over-the-top awesome birthday party like her neighbor Alexa. She can’t resist telling her classmates about it … even before getting the OK from her family.

Buy it: Marya Khan series on Amazon

41. Marcus series by Kevin Hart

Tap into kids’ love of YouTube and videography with this fast-paced and fun series. Marcus takes an after-school film class and starts dreaming of turning his cartoon drawings into a hit movie. These books will have kids wondering: Could they be famous one day? Written by actor and comedian Kevin Hart.

Buy it: Marcus Makes a Movie and Marcus Makes It Big on Amazon

42. The Unicorn Rescue Society series by Adam Gidwitz

In this engaging and highly readable series, Elliot and Uchenna join their odd teacher, Professor Fauna, on quests to protect mythical creatures.

Buy it: The Unicorn Rescue Society series on Amazon

43. A Boy Called Bat series by Elana K. Arnold

Meet Bat, an unforgettable third grade boy on the autism spectrum, as he tries to show his mom that a baby skunk can be the perfect pet. Also check out Bat and the Waiting Game and Bat and the End of Everything .

Buy it: A Boy Called Bat on Amazon

44. Once Upon a Tim series by Stuart Gibbs

This new series from a favorite author is readable, quirky, and fun. Tim, a smart-aleck peasant, finds himself wrapped up in a royal rescue scheme. This could make a great student book club choice. Keep an eye out for the sequel too.

Buy it: Once Upon a Tim series on Amazon

45. Jada Jones series by Kelly Starling Lyons

We adore Jada Jones for her realistic kid voice and her love of everything STEM. This series reflects common childhood dilemmas and drama with fresh-feeling details and plenty of heart. Also check out the Miles Lewis series by the same author.

Buy it: Jada Jones series on Amazon

46. The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza by Mac Barnett

Your collection of third grade books should definitely include a hysterical crowd-pleaser like this one. A cat launches a space expedition to save the moon from hungry rats. It’s weird and adventurous and sure to be passed all around the class.

Buy it: The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza on Amazon

47. Stinkbomb and Ketchup-Face series by John Dougherty

These British imports, recently re-released with updated illustrations, will appeal to students who like wacky humor. Stinkbomb and his messy little sister Ketchup-Face get themselves into madcap adventures in this fun series of third grade books.

Buy it: Stinkbomb and Ketchup-Face series on Amazon

48. Fantastic Frame series by Lin Oliver

This five-book series about a magical golden frame that transports time travelers into the historic world of famous paintings has a lot to offer: full-color illustrations, modern characters, a bit of art history, tons of adventure—and the thrill and tension of a ticking clock!

Buy it: Fantastic Frame series on Amazon

49. Family Fletcher series by Dana Alison Levy

The hilarious but realistic antics of the two dads and four adopted brothers in the Fletcher family make for enjoyable tales for your latest third grade books.

Buy it: Family Fletcher series on Amazon

50. Iggy series by Annie Barrows

LOL-worthy series alert! Iggy Frangi has a long list of complaints against him—and plenty of smart responses to explain away his behavior.

Buy it: Iggy series on Amazon

51. Lucy McGee series by Mary Amato

Mary Amato definitely understands upper elementary peer dynamics, and her books are surefire hits with third graders. Meet spirited Lucy McGee, star of this accessible illustrated chapter book.

Buy it: Lucy McGee series on Amazon

52. Big Foot and Little Foot series by Ellen Potter

A young Sasquatch named Hugo and a young boy build an unlikely friendship despite their differences.

Buy it: Big Foot and Little Foot series on Amazon

53. The Last Kids on Earth series by Max Brallier

The relatable characters in these hybrid graphic novels navigate real-life kid emotions, even during apocalyptic turmoil. Plus, there’s a good dose of oozing zombie grossness to hook reluctant readers.

Buy it: The Last Kids on Earth series on Amazon

54. Sparks! series by Ian Boothby and Nina Matsumoto

Readers will cheer for the masquerading feline stars of this graphic novel—great for students who love Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man books.

Buy it: Sparks series on Amazon

55. The Lost Library by Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass

When Evan finds a peculiar new Little Free Library on his walk to school, it launches him and his best friend into a (slightly) spooky mystery. Why are all the books from the town library that burned down decades ago? Add this to your third grade books for reading aloud or book clubs. Its alternating perspectives make it perfect for talking about character traits, motivations, and relationships. 

Buy it: The Lost Library on Amazon

56. Saving Winslow by Sharon Creech

No one can pack so much emotion into a slim novel like Sharon Creech. Louie’s efforts to nurse a sickly newborn donkey back to health turn into much more in this delightful testament to hope and healing.

Buy it: Saving Winslow on Amazon

57. Packing for Mars for Kids by Mary Roach

This new young readers edition of the bestselling adult nonfiction title could add some variety to your classroom read-aloud time or catch the attention of advanced readers. Surviving as a human in outer space is a complicated endeavor, as this science journalist explains with plenty of wit in chapters like “Toilet Training for Adults” and “Roommates for Very Small Rooms.” We plan on using excerpts as mentor texts for informational writing too.

Buy it: Packing for Mars for Kids on Amazon

58. Wonderland by Barbara O’Connor

If you loved Wish , prepare to be equally as drawn in by Barbara O’Connor’s newest set of compelling characters—including Henry the dog—in this coming-of-age story.

Buy it: Wonderland on Amazon

59. The Wild Robot series by Peter Brown

These tales about a robot marooned on a futuristic island will mesmerize your students. They offer plenty of material for discussions about perspective-taking too.

Buy it: Wild Robot series on Amazon

60. Cress Watercress by Gregory Maguire

Add this rich and complex animal story to your third grade read-aloud books or share it with just the right student reader. A young rabbit must cope with his missing Papa and a big move to a new home. This is an instant classic.

Buy it: Cress Watercress on Amazon

What third grade books have you discovered recently? Come share in our We Are Teachers Helpline group on Facebook.

Want more articles like this be sure to  subscribe to our newsletters . plus, check out our book lists for other elementary grade levels here:.

• Kindergarten Books
• First Grade Books
• Second Grade Books
• Fourth Grade Books

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60 Best Second Grade Books To Update Your Classroom Library

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• 31 Writing Book Reviews

Start-Up Activity 

Make a list of your three favorite books. For each book, identify two or three things you like about it. Share your list with your class. Then have your students list their three favorite books and what they liked about each. Point out that these thoughts could be used in a book review. Then ask if there was anything students didn't like about one of the books. Note that a criticism also could be part of a book review. 

Think About It

“There are books of which the backs and covers are by far the best parts.”

—Charles Dickens

State Standards Covered in This Chapter

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.1
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.2
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.3
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.4
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.5
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.7
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.9
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.5.1
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.5.2
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.5.3
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.5.4
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.5.5
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.5.7
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.5.9
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.1
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.2
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.3
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.4
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.1
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.2
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.3
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.4
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.2
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.4
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.5
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.4.1
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.4.2
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.5.2
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.5.4
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.5.5
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.5.1
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.5.2

LAFS Covered in This Chapter

Lafs.4.ri.1.1, lafs.4.ri.1.2, lafs.4.ri.1.3, lafs.4.ri.2.4, lafs.4.ri.2.5, lafs.4.ri.3.7, lafs.4.ri.3.9, lafs.5.ri.1.1, lafs.5.ri.1.2, lafs.5.ri.1.3, lafs.5.ri.2.4, lafs.5.ri.2.5, lafs.5.ri.3.7, lafs.5.ri.3.9, lafs.4.rl.1.1, lafs.4.rl.1.2, lafs.4.rl.1.3, lafs.4.rl.2.4, lafs.5.rl.1.1, lafs.5.rl.1.2, lafs.5.rl.1.3, lafs.5.rl.2.4, lafs.4.w.1.2, lafs.4.w.2.4, lafs.4.w.2.5, lafs.4.l.1.1, lafs.4.l.1.2, lafs.5.w.1.2, lafs.5.w.2.4, lafs.5.w.2.5, lafs.5.l.1.1, lafs.5.l.1.2, teks covered in this chapter, 110.6.b.9.d, 110.6.b.9.d.i, 110.6.b.7.c, 110.6.b.7.d, 110.6.b.9.d.iii, 110.6.b.9.d.ii, 110.6.b.9.f, 110.7.b.9.d, 110.7.b.7.d, 110.7.b.9.d.iii, 110.7.b.9.f, 110.6.b.8.a, 110.6.b.8.b, 110.7.b.8.a, 110.7.b.7.c, 110.7.b.8.b, 110.7.b.8.c, 110.7.b.8.d, 110.7.b.10.d, 110.6.b.11.b, 110.6.b.12.b, 110.6.b.11.a, 110.6.b.11.c, 110.6.b.11.d, 110.6.b.1.c, 110.6.b.11.d.ix, 110.6.b.11.d.x, 110.6.b.11.d.xi, 110.7.b.12.b, 110.7.b.11.a, 110.7.b.11.c, 110.7.b.11.d, 110.7.b.1.c, page 224 from writers express, sample nonfiction book review.

Express to your students that reading nonfiction books can broaden their perspective on the people, places, and things that make up our world. Then introduce them to the sample book review on this page. Explain that they will be writing something similar about a nonfiction book they are currently reading or have finished recently. 

As you explore the sample, point out its key parts. Explain that the beginning gets the readers’ attention and the middle paragraphs answer key questions about the book.

Related Resource Tags

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Page 225 from Writers Express

Sample Nonfiction Book Review (Continued)

Have your students read through the remainder of the sample nonfiction book review. Point out the use of the headings in the sample. Explain that they guide readers from section to section in the review. Finally, note how the ending tells why others might enjoy the book but doesn't spoil the book's ending.

Page 226 from Writers Express

Sample fiction book review.

Explain that fiction often presents readers with fascinating characters, interesting settings, and dramatic action. Then introduce them to the sample fiction book review on this page. Explain that they will be writing a similar review about a piece of fiction they are currently reading or have read recently.

Next, examine the key parts of the review as a class. Point out how the beginning hooks readers by sharing an interesting detail about the book. It also introduces the title and the author. Then review how the middle paragraphs answer key questions about the book.

Page 227 from Writers Express

Sample Fiction Book Review (Continued)

Read the remainder of the sample fiction book review with your class. Point out how the headings in the middle part review what's to come next in the review.

Finally, closely analyze the ending paragraph with your students. Point out how it shares an exciting summary of what happens in the book but doesn't spoil the ending. Note how the ending uses a question: How will anything turn out right? This question speaks directly to the reader, as does the closing line.

Page 228 from Writers Express

Writing guidelines.

Walk your students through the process of writing a book review. Encourage them to reserve space in a notebook or note-taking device for answering the four main questions of a book review: What is the book about? What do I like about the book? What is the book's theme or message? Why would others like it?  Then move on to the drafting tips. Explain that each question should be answered fully in separate paragraphs.

Next, you can discuss the final steps in the writing process: revising and editing. For revising, point your students to the four questions for "Improving Your Book Review." Students should be able to answer "yes" to each question before moving onto editing. If they cannot answer "yes," encourage them to add the missing details. This may require them to go back to the book they were reading. Finally, to help students understand the kinds of questions they should ask themselves when they edit, you can share with them the Editing Checklist download.

Page 229 from Writers Express

Collection sheet.

You can use the questions on this page to guide your students' prewriting and revising. Make sure to point out that fiction and nonfiction book reviews require different answers to these questions, as noted on this page. Download and distribute the book review collection sheet to help students gather details.

Encourage your students to check this page regularly as they read and write. While reading, they can search for and take notes of answers to the specific questions. While writing, they can use the page as a checklist of key questions to answer in their reviews.

Sharing Fiction with a Partner

Use shared inquiry to read fiction.

Page 230 from Writers Express

Sample book review brochure.

If you're looking for an alternative assignment to a standard book review, you could have your students create book review brochures. This page features one example. Show your students that the inside pages of the sample brochure answer the key questions from the previous page, only in bite-size pieces. 

• 01 A Basic Writing Guide
• 02 Understanding the Writing Process
• 03 One Writer's Process
• 04 Qualities of Writing
• 05 Selecting and Collecting
• 06 Focusing and Organizing
• 07 Writing and Revising
• 09 Publishing
• 10 Writing Basic Sentences
• 11 Combining Sentences
• 12 Writing Paragraphs
• 13 Understanding Writing Terms and Techniques
• 14 Understanding Text Structures
• 15 Writing in Journals
• 16 Using Learning Logs
• 17 Writing Emails and Blogs
• 18 Writing Personal Narratives
• 19 Writing Fantasies
• 20 Writing Realistic Stories
• 21 Writing Stories from History
• 22 Responding to Narrative Prompts
• 23 Writing Explanatory Essays
• 24 Writing Process Essays
• 25 Writing Comparison-Contrast Essays
• 26 Responding to Explanatory Prompts
• 27 Writing Persuasive Essays
• 28 Writing Persuasive Letters
• 29 Writing Problem-Solution Essays
• 30 Responding to Persuasive Prompts
• 32 Writing About Literature
• 33 Responding to Literature Prompts
• 34 Writing Reports
• 35 Writing Research Reports
• 36 Writing Summaries
• 37 Writing Plays
• 38 Writing Poems
• 39 Communicating Online
• 40 Researching Online
• 41 Staying Safe Online
• 42 Reading Strategies for Fiction
• 43 Reading Strategies for Nonfiction
• 44 Reading Graphics
• 45 Building Vocabulary Skills
• 46 Becoming a Better Speller
• 47 Giving Speeches
• 48 Improving Viewing Skills
• 49 Improving Listening Skills
• 50 Using Graphic Organizers
• 51 Thinking and Writing
• 52 Thinking Clearly
• 53 Thinking Creatively
• 54 Completing Assignments
• 55 Working in Groups
• 56 Taking Tests
• 57 Taking Good Notes
• 58 Marking Punctuation
• 59 Editing for Mechanics
• 60 Check Your Spelling
• 61 Using the Right Word
• 62 Understanding Sentences
• 63 Understanding Our Language

The 23 Best Books for 3rd Graders

The world of third grade is a fascinating one. It’s a phase where readers are blossoming, ready to delve deeper into literature’s treasures. Their appetites for compelling narratives are growing, and they’re on the brink of exploring more intricate plots and character dynamics. However, any educator, parent, or guardian knows the challenge: finding the right books for 3rd graders that hit the sweet spot between engaging and age-appropriate.

Have you ever found yourself overwhelmed, combing through the endless recommendations, trying to pinpoint the best chapter books for 3rd graders? The hunt can seem daunting. Choose a book too rudimentary, and they’re uninterested; select something overly intricate, which might overshadow their budding reading confidence.

But here’s the good news: your quest just became more navigable. After countless hours in library aisles, coupled with the invaluable feedback of young literature enthusiasts, I’ve created this curated guide. This list isn’t just a random assortment; it’s a carefully chosen collection of top-notch chapter books for 3rd graders, complemented by captivating graphic novels tailored for the vibrant and curious minds of 8- and 9-year-olds.

So, without further ado, let’s delve into this handpicked selection of books for 3rd graders. These tales are more than just stories; they’re gateways to worlds of wonder, challenges, and growth.

My Favorite Novels & Chapter Books for 3rd Graders

Whether you are a first-time teacher preparing your classroom library or trying to find a great book for your child, these 23 novels are amazing for your third-grade students. To help you determine which books best fit your class, I shared a short summary of the plot. I also shared links to the novel study to help save you prep time. I know your third graders will love these great stories! 

Realistic Fiction for Third Graders

1. how to eat fried worms by thomas rockwell .

This popular book tells the story of a boy who refuses to lose a bet. How to Eat Fried Worms is a novel sure to capture the attention of those reluctant readers in your class, especially the boys. However, when he gets stuck trying to eat more than a dozen worms, he realizes there has to be a better way! This leads him to learn various cooking methods to make his task a little less disgusting…maybe.

As a teacher, I love that this story offers so many opportunities to discuss important reading comprehension skills, including cause and effect, problem and solution, and character change across time.

Learn more about the novel study: How to Eat Fried Worms Novel Study

2. The Best School Year Ever by Barbara Robinson

Looking for funny books for your learner to engage with? Look no further!

The Best School Year Ever is the second in the series about the Herdman family, a group that regularly finds trouble no matter where they go. The narrator is a classmate of one of the Herdman children and shares all the rumors and legends surrounding the family.

Throughout the school year, anything that goes wrong is blamed on one Herdman kid or another, but when the narrator is asked to write a compliment about each kid in class, it is discovered that maybe the Herdmans aren’t so bad after all.

A great book for discussing finding the good in others, this story has great humor and is such a fun read.

3. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary

There is so much great realistic fiction for third graders.  Ramona Quimby, Age 8 is the perfect example of a high-quality, engaging novel that allows students to connect with characters.

The story is focused around a girl named Ramona, who faces many of the same challenges with parents and peers your students might face. This book covers everything from bullying and the pressure to balancing the responsibilities of home life.

The story is great for making text-to-self connections and comparing characters. I highly recommend you add it to your 3rd grade reading list.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Ramona Quimby, Age 8 Novel Study

4. Third Grade Angels by Jerry Spinelli

Jerry Spinelli is an amazing author, and this book is perfect for your third-grade students. A prequel to the popular story Fourth Grade Rats , this is the story of George’s third-grade year. Nicknamed Suds, George is desperate to be the first to win his teacher’s coveted behavior award.

George struggles with what it means to have good behavior and whether he has to behave ALL the time to earn the award. George’s character and challenges are easily relatable to students.

A great fall read-aloud book for third grade, this story is also perfect for book clubs or as an independent reading opportunity later in the school year.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Third Grade Angels Novel Study

5. Fudge-a-mania by Judy Blume

After discovering his parents’ plan to have their family spend summer vacation with his enemy, Sheila, Peter Hatcher is sure summer is ruined. His little brother, however, is elated.

Things take a turn for the better for Peter when his parents offer to let him bring his best friend with him, but it isn’t long before he’s spending more time with Shiela than him.

While the storyline is pretty tame, much like life most of the time, the relatable characters and situations are perfect for 3rd-grade readers. The students love predicting what will happen after discovering Sheila and Peter have become “stepcousins” by the end of the story.

Another fabulous novel by Judy Blume is the third book in the  Fudge series. While all the books in the series are great, I really love this one. It is a great way to introduce the topic of protagonist vs. antagonist and how this isn’t always the bad guy vs. the good guy.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Fudge-a-mania Novel Study

Fantasy Books for 3rd Graders

6. snot stew by bill wallace.

If you think this story will be about snot…guess again. Told from a cat’s first-person point of view, this story is a unique and engaging view of the world from a non-human perspective.

Snot Stew  is the tale of two stray kittens adopted into a family and how they acclimate to this new environment without their momma. As they become accustomed to their new home, their relationship changes dramatically until an emergency brings them back together.

Great for inferring, students love using text clues to figure out what common household objects the feline narrator describes. The story is also a great introduction to point of view and how it impacts the reader’s understanding of the text.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Snot Stew Novel Study

7. My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Styles Gannett

My Father’s Dragon  is a fantasy novel about a young boy who runs away to rescue a baby dragon. With vibrant details and some crazy adventures, this book captures the imagination of young readers and takes them along on Elmer’s journey.

Danger, excitement, and heroic efforts are all important components of this story, which is presented as a story told to the narrator by his father many years ago. Using only everyday objects from his pack, Elmer single-handedly disarms the many dangerous animals of Wild Island on his quest.

The book has beautiful illustrations, which help readers visualize the events of the story, and your students will love reading about Elmer’s brilliant ways of outsmarting the animals throughout. Perfect for teaching character traits and sequencing, this story is a gem that will stick with your readers for years.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: My Father’s Dragon  Novel Study

8. The Littles by John Peterson

Imagine tiny people were living in your house without you even knowing it. They used your things, borrowed your scraps, and made themselves right at home despite the numerous dangers the typical house presents when you’re tiny. That is the plot of  The Littles .

This fantasy novel is great for young readers because it is engaging and has a clear, well-developed plot. There are many opportunities to discuss problems and solutions as the Littles work to navigate the world at their size. Plus, it is a great novel for working through other critical comprehension skills.

Considered by many to be a must-read classic, I’ve included it on my list because it is the first of a whole series of books about this miniature family.

9. Flora & Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo

My list wouldn’t be complete without a graphic novel, and Flora & Ulysses  is the perfect graphic novel for your third graders.

Written by award-winning author Kate DiCamillo, this is the story of the many zany adventures of a superhero squirrel and the girl who saved him.

Students love this silly adventure story, and it is a great introduction to Kate DiCamillo if students haven’t read her work previously.

While ideal for reluctant readers due to the many detailed illustrations, even your advanced readers will enjoy this light, fun-to-read book.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Flora & Ulysses  Novel Study

10. The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling

Imagine everything you touched turned to chocolate…

Sounds pretty awesome, right? That’s what John Midas thought, too, until things started to go horribly wrong.

This delightful fantasy novel is a twist on the traditional story of the Midas touch. Even reluctant readers can’t help but be pulled into the story as they connect with John and his transition from enjoyment to frustration with his newfound talent.

A great book for cause and effect and prediction,  The Chocolate Touch  is a well-loved novel for a reason. I guarantee your kids will beg to get back to reading when you use this book in your novel study or book club.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: The Chocolate Touch  Novel Study

11. Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar

If your students are looking for a funny book to read, consider Louis Sachar’s Sideways Stories from Wayside School.

The book is a collection of short stories that all take place in the same wacky school where things never seem to go right. From a teacher who turns students into apples to a boy who gets sent home early for saving the day and being a good friend, your students will be laughing at the silly situations the characters find themselves in.

Each story can be read as a stand-alone or part of the larger collection. This book is perfect for a classroom read-aloud or for independent reading. This was always the first story I read to my own class.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Sideways Stories from Wayside School Novel Study

12. Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark by Mary Pope Osborne

The  Magic Tree House  series is one of my favorites. It has so many great books for 3rd graders to enjoy and learn from. We actually use it for a bedtime read-aloud with my 6-year old. However, it is a great series for third-grade independent readers, too.

The stories revolve around a sister and brother, Jack and Annie, and their travels in a magic tree house. In this first book, they travel back to the time of the dinosaurs on a mysterious quest. In addition to the great story, readers also learn lots of facts about dinosaurs through Jack’s research during their travels.

Great for teaching facts and opinions and other great reading skills, this book is a gateway to a series of great reading for your students.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Dinosaurs Before Dark  Novel Study

13. The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks

What kid hasn’t dreamed about their toys coming to life? The fact that this fantasy is so relatable is part of what makes this one of the great books for 3rd graders!

When Omri receives a cupboard for his birthday, he decides it is the perfect place to lock his plastic Indian toy. The next thing he knows, his plastic toy is a walking, talking man. After discovering his name is Little Bear, Omri works to help him set up a place to live and food.

Of course, no story is complete without a little drama…and Omri’s comes in the form of a cowboy named Boone. While the two don’t get along initially, the men soon find commonalities.

Ultimately, Omri is surprised when the magic cupboard’s key disappears. Will the cowboy and Indian ever be able to go back home?

This is one of my favorite books for 3rd graders when teaching comparing and contrasting or visualizing.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Indian in the Cupboard  Novel Study

14. Stuart Little by E.B. White

Many students have seen the movies that accompany this series, making the book the perfect transition to help students who struggle with comprehension.

Stuart is a mouse born into a human family. (Don’t ask me how that happened…) His family lives in New York City, and the story chronicles his adventures around Manhattan and all the dangers of being small in a big, big world.

Their familiarity with the plotline makes digging deep into important reading strategies easier, and comparing the book and movie helps students build real-world connections.

Vocabulary and context clues are also a great focus for this fabulous classic.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Stuart Little  Novel Study

Historical Fiction Books for Third Graders

15. stone fox by john reynolds gardiner.

I would be remiss if I didn’t start with a little disclaimer for this one. Keep tissues close by near the end. You will cry…probably hard. It is truly one of the saddest third-grade books on this list. However, this classic book remains one of my favorite novels for third graders.

Stone Fox is a beautifully written story that enthralls readers in Little Willy’s attempts to save his grandfather’s farm along with some help from his faithful pup, Searchlight. Little Willy is such a likable character, and your students will cheer him on as he attempts the impossible.

This novel is a literary gem, making a fantastic winter book study or read-aloud. I can read it repeatedly with students and (despite knowing the end) still be brought to tears each time by Gardiner’s compelling story.

This book is perfect for inclusion in a cross-curricular unit about the Iditarod in March lesson plans , you can make many great connections to math and social studies. Alternatively, you might use this book in conjunction with the true story of Balto.

Learn more about some engaging STEM challenges you can pair with this novel.

16. Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner

This book was a favorite of mine as a child, and now I love sharing it with my students. This classic story of orphans on the run will capture the reader’s attention.

Students will love reading about the adventures of Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny as they create a home for themselves in an old boxcar they discover in the woods. Trying hard to avoid being discovered by their grandfather (whom they’ve not met), the kids cook, clean, and work to earn money all on their own.

The book has a surprise ending, and as the first book in the series, it is a great opportunity to get your struggling or reluctant readers hooked on an easy-to-read series that will expose them to lots of great vocabulary. This book is truly a must-have in every third-grade classroom library.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: The Boxcar Children  Novel Study

17. Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

This story was written by Laura Ingalls Wilder and is the semi-true adventure of her family’s move to Wisconsin when she was a young girl. Throughout the story, Laura describes her work to help her Ma and Pa and how the family always finds time to play together.

From butchering their meat to gathering wood for the fire, the Ingalls must do everything they need to survive. As the book works through each season, the family’s work changes. Planting, making butter, and more.

Students are often fascinated by life long before there were grocery stores everywhere. Great for comparing the past and present, a commonly studied social studies unit, this story details life during the 1800s. This is the first of four books in the Little House series.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Little House in the Big Woods Novel Study

More books for 3rd graders

18. geronimo stilton #1: lost treasure of the emerald eye.

Unlike many other books on this list, the Geronimo Stilton series is a bit less text-heavy. However, don’t let that deter you from giving them a try! These books are packed with adventure, humor, and interesting facts.

In the first book, Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye, readers follow Geronimo as he tries to solve the mystery of a missing treasure. Full of twists and turns, this book is perfect for reluctant readers or those looking for a fast-paced read with lots of visuals.

This series is full of adventure stories, so if your students enjoy this book, be sure to check out the rest of the chapter book series!

19. Freckle Juice by Judy Blume

This is the first of a couple of Judy Blume books you’ll find on this list. She’s got some great choices that are perfect for third-grade readers.

Freckle Juice  is a hilarious realistic fiction novel about a boy, Andrew, who wants to have freckles like his classmate. Andrew can think of many reasons why having freckles would make his life easier. For example, his mom would never even know if his neck was dirty! When Andrew asks Nicky where his freckles came from, a classmate overhears and offers a special freckle juice recipe…at just 50 cents.

Of course, Andrew buys it and makes a batch of freckle juice for himself. I won’t give away the whole story, but suffice it to say, things get extra hilarious from then on.

Your students will love this totally relatable novel, and you’ll love the numerous opportunities to teach skills like theme and problem & solution. This makes it one of the great books for 3rd graders to enjoy during book clubs or lit circles.

20. Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle by Betty MacDonald

The book is a collection of short stories about the title character, an eccentric woman who knows how to deal with children’s bad habits. From kids who won’t take baths to those who are always losing their temper, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle has a cure for everything.

Your students will love hearing about the wild antics that take place in each story, and you can use the book as a springboard for discussing character traits, problem-solving, and more.

If you’re looking for a feel-good read, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle is a good choice!

21. Bunnicula by Deborah & James Howe

Told from the perspective of the family dog, Harold,  Bunnicula  is the story of what happened after the family found a baby rabbit at the movie theater during a screening of Dracula.

When Chester (the family’s cat) notices something strange about the new addition, he decides the rabbit must be a vampire and tries to alert the Monroe family.

Another really funny book, this novel is great for Halloween or any time. The narrator’s engaging storyline and unique perspective make it a perfect book for students who are into vampires and other supernatural happenings.

The text offers a number of great opportunities to infer and draw conclusions, which is a challenging skill for many 3rd graders.

Learn more about this and other great spooky stories here.

22. Esio Trot by Roald Dahl

A love story with a twist, this is the story of Mr. Hoppy and his plans to win the adoration of Ms. Silver via her beloved tortoise (Alfie). After telling Mr. Hoppy she wished she knew how to help Alfie grow larger, he concocts a wacky plan to win her over. Your students will love discussing this hare-brained plot and predicting whether it will work. (Spoiler: It does!)

With vivid description and silliness that only Dahl can bring to a children’s novel, this story is overall an easy read and fan favorite among books for 3rd graders. There are many great opportunities to discuss character traits and practice visualization, inferring, and more.

While the text has some made-up words (as do nearly all Dahl’s books), the plotline draws readers in and encourages them to overcome these challenges because the story is just that good.

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Esio Trot Novel Study

23. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

Your animal-loving students with The Wild Robot!

After a shipwreck, Roz the robot washes ashore on an uninhabited island. At first, she is only concerned with her survival, but as time passes, she starts to feel lonely. When a family of creatures finds her, Roz begins to learn about companionship with your animal-loving students with The Wild Robot!

A former Global Read Aloud book, The Wild Robot is a good book to discuss character traits, emotions, and more with your third-grade class.

Don’t forget to check out the corresponding lesson plans and materials for the book!

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: The Wild Robot Novel Study

Find the perfect novel for your third graders to enjoy!

While it can be challenging to find quality novels with engaging plots that support deep conversation and critical thinking about text that will appeal to a broad range of readers, my hope is that this list will help guide you in the right direction. All twenty books on this comprehensive list are quality literature that your 3rd graders will love, whether you decide to use them as a read-aloud or incorporate them as you plan your next novel unit.

I hope this list has sparked some ideas for adding books to your classroom library and your next novel unit. While you’re here, grab my free novel study planning roadmap to get step-by-step support to plan a high-quality literature unit for your third-grade students, whether you’re in the classroom or homeschooling.

Check out my Book Lists for Other Grades Below

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Blog – Posted on Friday, Mar 29

17 book review examples to help you write the perfect review.

It’s an exciting time to be a book reviewer. Once confined to print newspapers and journals, reviews now dot many corridors of the Internet — forever helping others discover their next great read. That said, every book reviewer will face a familiar panic: how can you do justice to a great book in just a thousand words?

As you know, the best way to learn how to do something is by immersing yourself in it. Luckily, the Internet (i.e. Goodreads and other review sites , in particular) has made book reviews more accessible than ever — which means that there are a lot of book reviews examples out there for you to view!

In this post, we compiled 17 prototypical book review examples in multiple genres to help you figure out how to write the perfect review . If you want to jump straight to the examples, you can skip the next section. Otherwise, let’s first check out what makes up a good review.

Are you interested in becoming a book reviewer? We recommend you check out Reedsy Discovery , where you can earn money for writing reviews — and are guaranteed people will read your reviews! To register as a book reviewer, sign up here.

Pro-tip : But wait! How are you sure if you should become a book reviewer in the first place? If you're on the fence, or curious about your match with a book reviewing career, take our quick quiz:

Should you become a book reviewer?

Find out the answer. Takes 30 seconds!

What must a book review contain?

Like all works of art, no two book reviews will be identical. But fear not: there are a few guidelines for any aspiring book reviewer to follow. Most book reviews, for instance, are less than 1,500 words long, with the sweet spot hitting somewhere around the 1,000-word mark. (However, this may vary depending on the platform on which you’re writing, as we’ll see later.)

In addition, all reviews share some universal elements, as shown in our book review templates . These include:

• A review will offer a concise plot summary of the book. 
• A book review will offer an evaluation of the work. 
• A book review will offer a recommendation for the audience. 

If these are the basic ingredients that make up a book review, it’s the tone and style with which the book reviewer writes that brings the extra panache. This will differ from platform to platform, of course. A book review on Goodreads, for instance, will be much more informal and personal than a book review on Kirkus Reviews, as it is catering to a different audience. However, at the end of the day, the goal of all book reviews is to give the audience the tools to determine whether or not they’d like to read the book themselves.

Keeping that in mind, let’s proceed to some book review examples to put all of this in action.

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Book review examples for fiction books

Since story is king in the world of fiction, it probably won’t come as any surprise to learn that a book review for a novel will concentrate on how well the story was told .

That said, book reviews in all genres follow the same basic formula that we discussed earlier. In these examples, you’ll be able to see how book reviewers on different platforms expertly intertwine the plot summary and their personal opinions of the book to produce a clear, informative, and concise review.

Note: Some of the book review examples run very long. If a book review is truncated in this post, we’ve indicated by including a […] at the end, but you can always read the entire review if you click on the link provided.

Examples of literary fiction book reviews

Kirkus Reviews reviews Ralph Ellison’s The Invisible Man :

An extremely powerful story of a young Southern Negro, from his late high school days through three years of college to his life in Harlem.

His early training prepared him for a life of humility before white men, but through injustices- large and small, he came to realize that he was an "invisible man". People saw in him only a reflection of their preconceived ideas of what he was, denied his individuality, and ultimately did not see him at all. This theme, which has implications far beyond the obvious racial parallel, is skillfully handled. The incidents of the story are wholly absorbing. The boy's dismissal from college because of an innocent mistake, his shocked reaction to the anonymity of the North and to Harlem, his nightmare experiences on a one-day job in a paint factory and in the hospital, his lightning success as the Harlem leader of a communistic organization known as the Brotherhood, his involvement in black versus white and black versus black clashes and his disillusion and understanding of his invisibility- all climax naturally in scenes of violence and riot, followed by a retreat which is both literal and figurative. Parts of this experience may have been told before, but never with such freshness, intensity and power.

This is Ellison's first novel, but he has complete control of his story and his style. Watch it.

Lyndsey reviews George Orwell’s 1984 on Goodreads:

YOU. ARE. THE. DEAD. Oh my God. I got the chills so many times toward the end of this book. It completely blew my mind. It managed to surpass my high expectations AND be nothing at all like I expected. Or in Newspeak "Double Plus Good." Let me preface this with an apology. If I sound stunningly inarticulate at times in this review, I can't help it. My mind is completely fried.

This book is like the dystopian Lord of the Rings, with its richly developed culture and economics, not to mention a fully developed language called Newspeak, or rather more of the anti-language, whose purpose is to limit speech and understanding instead of to enhance and expand it. The world-building is so fully fleshed out and spine-tinglingly terrifying that it's almost as if George travelled to such a place, escaped from it, and then just wrote it all down.

I read Fahrenheit 451 over ten years ago in my early teens. At the time, I remember really wanting to read 1984, although I never managed to get my hands on it. I'm almost glad I didn't. Though I would not have admitted it at the time, it would have gone over my head. Or at the very least, I wouldn't have been able to appreciate it fully. […]

The New York Times reviews Lisa Halliday’s Asymmetry :

Three-quarters of the way through Lisa Halliday’s debut novel, “Asymmetry,” a British foreign correspondent named Alistair is spending Christmas on a compound outside of Baghdad. His fellow revelers include cameramen, defense contractors, United Nations employees and aid workers. Someone’s mother has FedExed a HoneyBaked ham from Maine; people are smoking by the swimming pool. It is 2003, just days after Saddam Hussein’s capture, and though the mood is optimistic, Alistair is worrying aloud about the ethics of his chosen profession, wondering if reporting on violence doesn’t indirectly abet violence and questioning why he’d rather be in a combat zone than reading a picture book to his son. But every time he returns to London, he begins to “spin out.” He can’t go home. “You observe what people do with their freedom — what they don’t do — and it’s impossible not to judge them for it,” he says.

The line, embedded unceremoniously in the middle of a page-long paragraph, doubles, like so many others in “Asymmetry,” as literary criticism. Halliday’s novel is so strange and startlingly smart that its mere existence seems like commentary on the state of fiction. One finishes “Asymmetry” for the first or second (or like this reader, third) time and is left wondering what other writers are not doing with their freedom — and, like Alistair, judging them for it.

Despite its title, “Asymmetry” comprises two seemingly unrelated sections of equal length, appended by a slim and quietly shocking coda. Halliday’s prose is clean and lean, almost reportorial in the style of W. G. Sebald, and like the murmurings of a shy person at a cocktail party, often comic only in single clauses. It’s a first novel that reads like the work of an author who has published many books over many years. […]

Emily W. Thompson reviews Michael Doane's The Crossing on Reedsy Discovery :

In Doane’s debut novel, a young man embarks on a journey of self-discovery with surprising results.

An unnamed protagonist (The Narrator) is dealing with heartbreak. His love, determined to see the world, sets out for Portland, Oregon. But he’s a small-town boy who hasn’t traveled much. So, the Narrator mourns her loss and hides from life, throwing himself into rehabbing an old motorcycle. Until one day, he takes a leap; he packs his bike and a few belongings and heads out to find the Girl.

Following in the footsteps of Jack Kerouac and William Least Heat-Moon, Doane offers a coming of age story about a man finding himself on the backroads of America. Doane’s a gifted writer with fluid prose and insightful observations, using The Narrator’s personal interactions to illuminate the diversity of the United States.

The Narrator initially sticks to the highways, trying to make it to the West Coast as quickly as possible. But a hitchhiker named Duke convinces him to get off the beaten path and enjoy the ride. “There’s not a place that’s like any other,” [39] Dukes contends, and The Narrator realizes he’s right. Suddenly, the trip is about the journey, not just the destination. The Narrator ditches his truck and traverses the deserts and mountains on his bike. He destroys his phone, cutting off ties with his past and living only in the moment.

As he crosses the country, The Narrator connects with several unique personalities whose experiences and views deeply impact his own. Duke, the complicated cowboy and drifter, who opens The Narrator’s eyes to a larger world. Zooey, the waitress in Colorado who opens his heart and reminds him that love can be found in this big world. And Rosie, The Narrator’s sweet landlady in Portland, who helps piece him back together both physically and emotionally.

This supporting cast of characters is excellent. Duke, in particular, is wonderfully nuanced and complicated. He’s a throwback to another time, a man without a cell phone who reads Sartre and sleeps under the stars. Yet he’s also a grifter with a “love ‘em and leave ‘em” attitude that harms those around him. It’s fascinating to watch The Narrator wrestle with Duke’s behavior, trying to determine which to model and which to discard.

Doane creates a relatable protagonist in The Narrator, whose personal growth doesn’t erase his faults. His willingness to hit the road with few resources is admirable, and he’s prescient enough to recognize the jealousy of those who cannot or will not take the leap. His encounters with new foods, places, and people broaden his horizons. Yet his immaturity and selfishness persist. He tells Rosie she’s been a good mother to him but chooses to ignore the continuing concern from his own parents as he effectively disappears from his old life.

Despite his flaws, it’s a pleasure to accompany The Narrator on his physical and emotional journey. The unexpected ending is a fitting denouement to an epic and memorable road trip.

The Book Smugglers review Anissa Gray’s The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls :

I am still dipping my toes into the literally fiction pool, finding what works for me and what doesn’t. Books like The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls by Anissa Gray are definitely my cup of tea.

Althea and Proctor Cochran had been pillars of their economically disadvantaged community for years – with their local restaurant/small market and their charity drives. Until they are found guilty of fraud for stealing and keeping most of the money they raised and sent to jail. Now disgraced, their entire family is suffering the consequences, specially their twin teenage daughters Baby Vi and Kim.  To complicate matters even more: Kim was actually the one to call the police on her parents after yet another fight with her mother. […]

Examples of children’s and YA fiction book reviews

The Book Hookup reviews Angie Thomas’ The Hate U Give :

♥ Quick Thoughts and Rating: 5 stars! I can’t imagine how challenging it would be to tackle the voice of a movement like Black Lives Matter, but I do know that Thomas did it with a finesse only a talented author like herself possibly could. With an unapologetically realistic delivery packed with emotion, The Hate U Give is a crucially important portrayal of the difficulties minorities face in our country every single day. I have no doubt that this book will be met with resistance by some (possibly many) and slapped with a “controversial” label, but if you’ve ever wondered what it was like to walk in a POC’s shoes, then I feel like this is an unflinchingly honest place to start.

In Angie Thomas’s debut novel, Starr Carter bursts on to the YA scene with both heart-wrecking and heartwarming sincerity. This author is definitely one to watch.

♥ Review: The hype around this book has been unquestionable and, admittedly, that made me both eager to get my hands on it and terrified to read it. I mean, what if I was to be the one person that didn’t love it as much as others? (That seems silly now because of how truly mesmerizing THUG was in the most heartbreakingly realistic way.) However, with the relevancy of its summary in regards to the unjust predicaments POC currently face in the US, I knew this one was a must-read, so I was ready to set my fears aside and dive in. That said, I had an altogether more personal, ulterior motive for wanting to read this book. […]

The New York Times reviews Melissa Albert’s The Hazel Wood :

Alice Crewe (a last name she’s chosen for herself) is a fairy tale legacy: the granddaughter of Althea Proserpine, author of a collection of dark-as-night fairy tales called “Tales From the Hinterland.” The book has a cult following, and though Alice has never met her grandmother, she’s learned a little about her through internet research. She hasn’t read the stories, because her mother, Ella Proserpine, forbids it.

Alice and Ella have moved from place to place in an attempt to avoid the “bad luck” that seems to follow them. Weird things have happened. As a child, Alice was kidnapped by a man who took her on a road trip to find her grandmother; he was stopped by the police before they did so. When at 17 she sees that man again, unchanged despite the years, Alice panics. Then Ella goes missing, and Alice turns to Ellery Finch, a schoolmate who’s an Althea Proserpine superfan, for help in tracking down her mother. Not only has Finch read every fairy tale in the collection, but handily, he remembers them, sharing them with Alice as they journey to the mysterious Hazel Wood, the estate of her now-dead grandmother, where they hope to find Ella.

“The Hazel Wood” starts out strange and gets stranger, in the best way possible. (The fairy stories Finch relays, which Albert includes as their own chapters, are as creepy and evocative as you’d hope.) Albert seamlessly combines contemporary realism with fantasy, blurring the edges in a way that highlights that place where stories and real life convene, where magic contains truth and the world as it appears is false, where just about anything can happen, particularly in the pages of a very good book. It’s a captivating debut. […]

James reviews Margaret Wise Brown’s Goodnight, Moon on Goodreads:

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown is one of the books that followers of my blog voted as a must-read for our Children's Book August 2018 Readathon. Come check it out and join the next few weeks!

This picture book was such a delight. I hadn't remembered reading it when I was a child, but it might have been read to me... either way, it was like a whole new experience! It's always so difficult to convince a child to fall asleep at night. I don't have kids, but I do have a 5-month-old puppy who whines for 5 minutes every night when he goes in his cage/crate (hopefully he'll be fully housebroken soon so he can roam around when he wants). I can only imagine! I babysat a lot as a teenager and I have tons of younger cousins, nieces, and nephews, so I've been through it before, too. This was a believable experience, and it really helps show kids how to relax and just let go when it's time to sleep.

The bunny's are adorable. The rhymes are exquisite. I found it pretty fun, but possibly a little dated given many of those things aren't normal routines anymore. But the lessons to take from it are still powerful. Loved it! I want to sample some more books by this fine author and her illustrators.

Publishers Weekly reviews Elizabeth Lilly’s Geraldine :

This funny, thoroughly accomplished debut opens with two words: “I’m moving.” They’re spoken by the title character while she swoons across her family’s ottoman, and because Geraldine is a giraffe, her full-on melancholy mode is quite a spectacle. But while Geraldine may be a drama queen (even her mother says so), it won’t take readers long to warm up to her. The move takes Geraldine from Giraffe City, where everyone is like her, to a new school, where everyone else is human. Suddenly, the former extrovert becomes “That Giraffe Girl,” and all she wants to do is hide, which is pretty much impossible. “Even my voice tries to hide,” she says, in the book’s most poignant moment. “It’s gotten quiet and whispery.” Then she meets Cassie, who, though human, is also an outlier (“I’m that girl who wears glasses and likes MATH and always organizes her food”), and things begin to look up.

Lilly’s watercolor-and-ink drawings are as vividly comic and emotionally astute as her writing; just when readers think there are no more ways for Geraldine to contort her long neck, this highly promising talent comes up with something new.

Examples of genre fiction book reviews

Karlyn P reviews Nora Roberts’ Dark Witch , a paranormal romance novel , on Goodreads:

4 stars. Great world-building, weak romance, but still worth the read.

I hesitate to describe this book as a 'romance' novel simply because the book spent little time actually exploring the romance between Iona and Boyle. Sure, there IS a romance in this novel. Sprinkled throughout the book are a few scenes where Iona and Boyle meet, chat, wink at each, flirt some more, sleep together, have a misunderstanding, make up, and then profess their undying love. Very formulaic stuff, and all woven around the more important parts of this book.

The meat of this book is far more focused on the story of the Dark witch and her magically-gifted descendants living in Ireland. Despite being weak on the romance, I really enjoyed it. I think the book is probably better for it, because the romance itself was pretty lackluster stuff.

I absolutely plan to stick with this series as I enjoyed the world building, loved the Ireland setting, and was intrigued by all of the secondary characters. However, If you read Nora Roberts strictly for the romance scenes, this one might disappoint. But if you enjoy a solid background story with some dark magic and prophesies, you might enjoy it as much as I did.

I listened to this one on audio, and felt the narration was excellent.

Emily May reviews R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy Wars , an epic fantasy novel , on Goodreads:

“But I warn you, little warrior. The price of power is pain.”

Holy hell, what did I just read??

➽ A fantasy military school

➽ A rich world based on modern Chinese history

➽ Shamans and gods

➽ Detailed characterization leading to unforgettable characters

➽ Adorable, opium-smoking mentors

That's a basic list, but this book is all of that and SO MUCH MORE. I know 100% that The Poppy War will be one of my best reads of 2018.

Isn't it just so great when you find one of those books that completely drags you in, makes you fall in love with the characters, and demands that you sit on the edge of your seat for every horrific, nail-biting moment of it? This is one of those books for me. And I must issue a serious content warning: this book explores some very dark themes. Proceed with caution (or not at all) if you are particularly sensitive to scenes of war, drug use and addiction, genocide, racism, sexism, ableism, self-harm, torture, and rape (off-page but extremely horrific).

Because, despite the fairly innocuous first 200 pages, the title speaks the truth: this is a book about war. All of its horrors and atrocities. It is not sugar-coated, and it is often graphic. The "poppy" aspect refers to opium, which is a big part of this book. It is a fantasy, but the book draws inspiration from the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Rape of Nanking.

Crime Fiction Lover reviews Jessica Barry’s Freefall , a crime novel:

In some crime novels, the wrongdoing hits you between the eyes from page one. With others it’s a more subtle process, and that’s OK too. So where does Freefall fit into the sliding scale?

In truth, it’s not clear. This is a novel with a thrilling concept at its core. A woman survives plane crash, then runs for her life. However, it is the subtleties at play that will draw you in like a spider beckoning to an unwitting fly.

Like the heroine in Sharon Bolton’s Dead Woman Walking, Allison is lucky to be alive. She was the only passenger in a private plane, belonging to her fiancé, Ben, who was piloting the expensive aircraft, when it came down in woodlands in the Colorado Rockies. Ally is also the only survivor, but rather than sitting back and waiting for rescue, she is soon pulling together items that may help her survive a little longer – first aid kit, energy bars, warm clothes, trainers – before fleeing the scene. If you’re hearing the faint sound of alarm bells ringing, get used to it. There’s much, much more to learn about Ally before this tale is over.

Kirkus Reviews reviews Ernest Cline’s Ready Player One , a science-fiction novel :

Video-game players embrace the quest of a lifetime in a virtual world; screenwriter Cline’s first novel is old wine in new bottles.

The real world, in 2045, is the usual dystopian horror story. So who can blame Wade, our narrator, if he spends most of his time in a virtual world? The 18-year-old, orphaned at 11, has no friends in his vertical trailer park in Oklahoma City, while the OASIS has captivating bells and whistles, and it’s free. Its creator, the legendary billionaire James Halliday, left a curious will. He had devised an elaborate online game, a hunt for a hidden Easter egg. The finder would inherit his estate. Old-fashioned riddles lead to three keys and three gates. Wade, or rather his avatar Parzival, is the first gunter (egg-hunter) to win the Copper Key, first of three.

Halliday was obsessed with the pop culture of the 1980s, primarily the arcade games, so the novel is as much retro as futurist. Parzival’s great strength is that he has absorbed all Halliday’s obsessions; he knows by heart three essential movies, crossing the line from geek to freak. His most formidable competitors are the Sixers, contract gunters working for the evil conglomerate IOI, whose goal is to acquire the OASIS. Cline’s narrative is straightforward but loaded with exposition. It takes a while to reach a scene that crackles with excitement: the meeting between Parzival (now world famous as the lead contender) and Sorrento, the head of IOI. The latter tries to recruit Parzival; when he fails, he issues and executes a death threat. Wade’s trailer is demolished, his relatives killed; luckily Wade was not at home. Too bad this is the dramatic high point. Parzival threads his way between more ’80s games and movies to gain the other keys; it’s clever but not exciting. Even a romance with another avatar and the ultimate “epic throwdown” fail to stir the blood.

Too much puzzle-solving, not enough suspense.

Book review examples for non-fiction books

Nonfiction books are generally written to inform readers about a certain topic. As such, the focus of a nonfiction book review will be on the clarity and effectiveness of this communication . In carrying this out, a book review may analyze the author’s source materials and assess the thesis in order to determine whether or not the book meets expectations.

Again, we’ve included abbreviated versions of long reviews here, so feel free to click on the link to read the entire piece!

The Washington Post reviews David Grann’s Killers of the Flower Moon :

The arc of David Grann’s career reminds one of a software whiz-kid or a latest-thing talk-show host — certainly not an investigative reporter, even if he is one of the best in the business. The newly released movie of his first book, “The Lost City of Z,” is generating all kinds of Oscar talk, and now comes the release of his second book, “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI,” the film rights to which have already been sold for $5 million in what one industry journal called the “biggest and wildest book rights auction in memory.”

Grann deserves the attention. He’s canny about the stories he chases, he’s willing to go anywhere to chase them, and he’s a maestro in his ability to parcel out information at just the right clip: a hint here, a shading of meaning there, a smartly paced buildup of multiple possibilities followed by an inevitable reversal of readerly expectations or, in some cases, by a thrilling and dislocating pull of the entire narrative rug.

All of these strengths are on display in “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Around the turn of the 20th century, oil was discovered underneath Osage lands in the Oklahoma Territory, lands that were soon to become part of the state of Oklahoma. Through foresight and legal maneuvering, the Osage found a way to permanently attach that oil to themselves and shield it from the prying hands of white interlopers; this mechanism was known as “headrights,” which forbade the outright sale of oil rights and granted each full member of the tribe — and, supposedly, no one else — a share in the proceeds from any lease arrangement. For a while, the fail-safes did their job, and the Osage got rich — diamond-ring and chauffeured-car and imported-French-fashion rich — following which quite a large group of white men started to work like devils to separate the Osage from their money. And soon enough, and predictably enough, this work involved murder. Here in Jazz Age America’s most isolated of locales, dozens or even hundreds of Osage in possession of great fortunes — and of the potential for even greater fortunes in the future — were dispatched by poison, by gunshot and by dynamite. […]

Stacked Books reviews Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers :

I’ve heard a lot of great things about Malcolm Gladwell’s writing. Friends and co-workers tell me that his subjects are interesting and his writing style is easy to follow without talking down to the reader. I wasn’t disappointed with Outliers. In it, Gladwell tackles the subject of success – how people obtain it and what contributes to extraordinary success as opposed to everyday success.

The thesis – that our success depends much more on circumstances out of our control than any effort we put forth – isn’t exactly revolutionary. Most of us know it to be true. However, I don’t think I’m lying when I say that most of us also believe that we if we just try that much harder and develop our talent that much further, it will be enough to become wildly successful, despite bad or just mediocre beginnings. Not so, says Gladwell.

Most of the evidence Gladwell gives us is anecdotal, which is my favorite kind to read. I can’t really speak to how scientifically valid it is, but it sure makes for engrossing listening. For example, did you know that successful hockey players are almost all born in January, February, or March? Kids born during these months are older than the others kids when they start playing in the youth leagues, which means they’re already better at the game (because they’re bigger). Thus, they get more play time, which means their skill increases at a faster rate, and it compounds as time goes by. Within a few years, they’re much, much better than the kids born just a few months later in the year. Basically, these kids’ birthdates are a huge factor in their success as adults – and it’s nothing they can do anything about. If anyone could make hockey interesting to a Texan who only grudgingly admits the sport even exists, it’s Gladwell. […]

Quill and Quire reviews Rick Prashaw’s Soar, Adam, Soar :

Ten years ago, I read a book called Almost Perfect. The young-adult novel by Brian Katcher won some awards and was held up as a powerful, nuanced portrayal of a young trans person. But the reality did not live up to the book’s billing. Instead, it turned out to be a one-dimensional and highly fetishized portrait of a trans person’s life, one that was nevertheless repeatedly dubbed “realistic” and “affecting” by non-transgender readers possessing only a vague, mass-market understanding of trans experiences.

In the intervening decade, trans narratives have emerged further into the literary spotlight, but those authored by trans people ourselves – and by trans men in particular – have seemed to fall under the shadow of cisgender sensationalized imaginings. Two current Canadian releases – Soar, Adam, Soar and This One Looks Like a Boy – provide a pointed object lesson into why trans-authored work about transgender experiences remains critical.

To be fair, Soar, Adam, Soar isn’t just a story about a trans man. It’s also a story about epilepsy, the medical establishment, and coming of age as seen through a grieving father’s eyes. Adam, Prashaw’s trans son, died unexpectedly at age 22. Woven through the elder Prashaw’s narrative are excerpts from Adam’s social media posts, giving us glimpses into the young man’s interior life as he traverses his late teens and early 20s. […]

Book Geeks reviews Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love :

WRITING STYLE: 3.5/5

SUBJECT: 4/5

CANDIDNESS: 4.5/5

RELEVANCE: 3.5/5

ENTERTAINMENT QUOTIENT: 3.5/5

“Eat Pray Love” is so popular that it is almost impossible to not read it. Having felt ashamed many times on my not having read this book, I quietly ordered the book (before I saw the movie) from amazon.in and sat down to read it. I don’t remember what I expected it to be – maybe more like a chick lit thing but it turned out quite different. The book is a real story and is a short journal from the time when its writer went travelling to three different countries in pursuit of three different things – Italy (Pleasure), India (Spirituality), Bali (Balance) and this is what corresponds to the book’s name – EAT (in Italy), PRAY (in India) and LOVE (in Bali, Indonesia). These are also the three Is – ITALY, INDIA, INDONESIA.

Though she had everything a middle-aged American woman can aspire for – MONEY, CAREER, FRIENDS, HUSBAND; Elizabeth was not happy in her life, she wasn’t happy in her marriage. Having suffered a terrible divorce and terrible breakup soon after, Elizabeth was shattered. She didn’t know where to go and what to do – all she knew was that she wanted to run away. So she set out on a weird adventure – she will go to three countries in a year and see if she can find out what she was looking for in life. This book is about that life changing journey that she takes for one whole year. […]

Emily May reviews Michelle Obama’s Becoming on Goodreads:

Look, I'm not a happy crier. I might cry at songs about leaving and missing someone; I might cry at books where things don't work out; I might cry at movies where someone dies. I've just never really understood why people get all choked up over happy, inspirational things. But Michelle Obama's kindness and empathy changed that. This book had me in tears for all the right reasons.

This is not really a book about politics, though political experiences obviously do come into it. It's a shame that some will dismiss this book because of a difference in political opinion, when it is really about a woman's life. About growing up poor and black on the South Side of Chicago; about getting married and struggling to maintain that marriage; about motherhood; about being thrown into an amazing and terrifying position.

I hate words like "inspirational" because they've become so overdone and cheesy, but I just have to say it-- Michelle Obama is an inspiration. I had the privilege of seeing her speak at The Forum in Inglewood, and she is one of the warmest, funniest, smartest, down-to-earth people I have ever seen in this world.

And yes, I know we present what we want the world to see, but I truly do think it's genuine. I think she is someone who really cares about people - especially kids - and wants to give them better lives and opportunities.

She's obviously intelligent, but she also doesn't gussy up her words. She talks straight, with an openness and honesty rarely seen. She's been one of the most powerful women in the world, she's been a graduate of Princeton and Harvard Law School, she's had her own successful career, and yet she has remained throughout that same girl - Michelle Robinson - from a working class family in Chicago.

I don't think there's anyone who wouldn't benefit from reading this book.

Hopefully, this post has given you a better idea of how to write a book review. You might be wondering how to put all of this knowledge into action now! Many book reviewers start out by setting up a book blog. If you don’t have time to research the intricacies of HTML, check out Reedsy Discovery — where you can read indie books for free and review them without going through the hassle of creating a blog. To register as a book reviewer , go here .

And if you’d like to see even more book review examples, simply go to this directory of book review blogs and click on any one of them to see a wealth of good book reviews. Beyond that, it's up to you to pick up a book and pen — and start reviewing!

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70 Must-Read Books by Black Authors in 2024

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Book Review Writing

Book Review Examples

Book Review Examples to Help You Get Started

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How to Write a Book Review - A Step By Step Guide

A Complete Book Review Format Guide For Students

Are you in desperate need of some assistance to up your book review writing game? 

We know that penning down a review can come off as a tricky challenge, but do not worry!

To help you write book reviews that carry the essence of the book and engage readers, we have collected a handful of book review examples in this blog. 

The included examples will enable you to understand different writing styles and approaches taken toward book review writing . So, you can use your words effectively to craft the perfect book review.

Let’s kickstart things off!

• 1. Good Book Review Examples for Students
• 2. Short Book Review Examples for Fiction Books
• 3. Non-Fiction Book Review Examples

Good Book Review Examples for Students

You might be a professional writer, or you may not have any experience in writing book reviews. Rest assured, we’ll show you how to write perfect book reviews with the help of a sample template and great examples.

See this template to know what you should include in your book review: 

Book Review Template

Here is a good book review example for 4th-grade students:

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Book Review Examples for Middle School Students

Reading reviews written by others can help you get a feel and flavor of good book reviews. Learning how to write a perfect book review can help students to:

• Critically analyze a text
• Give a personal opinion on the text
• Improve analyzing and critical thinking skills 

Here are some interesting book review examples suitable for middle school students. 

Book Review Example for Middle School Students

Book Review Example for Kids

Book Review of Any Book in 300 Words

Science Book Review Example

Book Review Examples For High School Students

Below, you can also find some good book review examples for high school students. These real-life examples can help you get a clear understanding of the standard book review format that you should follow.

Book Review Example for High School Students

Book Review Examples for Class 9

Book Review Example for Grade 10

Book Review Examples for College Students

As a college student, you are required to demonstrate that you have examined the book from different angles. The points you raise in your book review need to be supported with clear facts and evidence.

The following are some interesting critical book review examples for college students to learn how to write a perfect review. 

Book Review Example for Class 12

Short Book Review for Students

Conclusion of Book Review Example

Short Book Review Examples for Fiction Books

Fiction book reviews follow the same basic formula as writing book reviews of any other genre. For your help, we have compiled exciting examples of fiction book reviews that you can get valuable assistance from. 

Short Book Review Example for Fiction Books

Book Review of Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert

“The Hazel Wood” by Melissa Albert is a work of fiction and falls into fantasy and young adult fiction genres. The novel revolves around fantastical fairy tales, and magical realism, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.

Here is an example of a comprehensive review of the book Hazel Wood:

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Non-Fiction Book Review Examples

For reviewing a non-fiction book, you are required to describe the book and summarize major points of interest. You should evaluate the author’s contribution to a subject that you may know very little about.

Here is a great non-fiction book review example to help you come up with a critical perspective on a text. 

Non-Fiction Book Review Example

Hopefully, with the help of the above examples, you get a better idea of how to write a perfect book review.

To wrap it up, Writing a great book review is a tricky task, no matter if you are a high school, college, or university student. Book review writing might seem like a simple task, but it requires excellent analyzing and critical thinking skills.

But, not everyone can crack this task easily. They might need additional help from expert book review writers. That’s why our professional essay writing service offers book review writing help whenever you need it. 

Professional essay writers at MyPerfectWords.com can help you with all your academic requests within your specified timeline. Just contact our customer service and we’ll handle all your queries promptly.

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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

• 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. 

• An Interview with David and Keiko Mello, Creators of ‘The Three Stones of Ebon’

In this captivating interview, David Mello delves into the enchanting world of the novel co-written with Keiko Mello, The Three Stones of Ebon.

• The Power of Pets, Place, and Personal Experience: Lauren Castillo on the Inspirations Behind ‘Just Like Millie’

Award-winning author and illustrator Lauren Castillo shares experiences and meaningful inspirations behind her latest picture book, Just Like Millie.

• Jo’s Special Gifts, by Mariam Shapera | Awareness Tour

Join us on a virtual book tour for the heartwarming picture book Jo’s Special Gifts by Mariam Shapera, illustrated by Lorna Humphreys.

• Jo’s Special Gifts, by Mariam Shapera | Dedicated Review

Jo’s Special Gifts by Mariam Shapera, illustrated by Lorna Humphreys, is a picture book that celebrates the unique gifts and perspectives of an autistic child.

How to Make a Sandwich, by Lorena M. Proia | Awareness Tour

Attention book lovers! You’re invited to join the virtual book tour for Lorena M. Proia’s delightful new picture book, How to Make a Sandwich!

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Reading Middle Grade

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.

Join our Patreon community to get the printable version of this li st ! You’ll also get access to other kid lit resources, like our seasonal guides and educator interviews, to inspire you.

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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