biography chapter books for 3rd graders

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28 Chapter Books To Hook Third Graders

Engage and inspire young readers with these unforgettable titles.

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

1. Dyamonde Daniel series by Nikki Grimes

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

Buy it: Dyamonde Daniel series

2. Stella Diaz series by Angela Dominguez

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

Buy it: Stella Diaz series

3. Dragons in a Bag series by Zetta Elliott

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

Buy it: Dragons in a Bag series

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

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

Buy it: Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker series

5. The Fantastic Frame series by Lin Oliver

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

Buy it: Fantastic Frame series

6. Definitely Dominguita series by Terry Catasus Jennings

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

Buy it: Definitely Dominguita series

7. The Wild Robot series by Peter Brown

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

Buy it: The Wild Robot series

8. Unicorn Academy series by Julie Sykes

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

Buy it: Unicorn Academy series

9. Geronimo Stilton series by Geronimo Stilton

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

Buy it: Geronimo Stilton series

10. Marya Khan series by Saadia Faruqi

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

Buy it: Marya Khan series

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

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

Buy it: The Mouse With the Question Mark Tail

12. The Unicorn Rescue Society series by Adam Gidwitz

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

Buy it: The Unicorn Rescue Society series

13. Saving Winslow by Sharon Creech

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

Buy it: Saving Winslow

14. Planet Omar series by Zanib Mian

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

Buy it: Planet Omar series

15. Sideway Stories From Wayside School series by Louis Sachar

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

Buy it: Sideways Stories From Wayside School series

16. A to Z Mysteries series by Ron Roy

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

Buy it: A to Z Mysteries series

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

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

Buy it: The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher series  

18. Who Was …? series by various authors

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

Buy it: Who Was …? series  

19. Dragonbreath series by Ursula Vernon

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

Buy it: Dragonbreath series  

20. The Magnificent Mya Tibbs series by Crystal Allen

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

Buy it: The Magnificent Mya Tibbs series

21. The Boxcar Children series by Gertrude Chandler Warner

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

Buy it:  The Boxcar Children series

22. Pages and Co. series by Anna James

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

Buy it: Pages and Co. series

23. Daisy Dawson series by Steve Voake

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

Buy it: Daisy Dawson series

24. Humphrey series by Betty Birney

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

Buy it: Humphrey series

25. Tales of Magic series by Edward Eager

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

Buy it: Tales of Magic series

26. The Mysterious Makers of Shaker Street by Stacia Deutsch

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

Buy it: The Mysterious Makers of Shaker Street series

27. Otis Dooda series by Ellen Potter

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

Buy it: Otis Dooda series

28. Clementine series by Sara Pennypacker

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

Buy it: Clementine series

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

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

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

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

Top 11 Books for 3rd Grade Boys and Girls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wholesome Beginning Chapter Books for Boys Ages 6 – 9

Wholesome Beginning Chapter Books for Girls Ages 6 – 9

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reading Journal for Kids

102 pages of fun!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Good Books for 3rd Graders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KEEP READING

Choose Your Own Adventure Books

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Dictionary for Kids

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

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29 Comments

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

Yes — I’ll email it to you!

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

I’m so happy to hear it!

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

There is not a printable list of all the books.

Home » Teacher Supplies » 19 Best Chapter Books for 3rd Graders Perfectly Tailored for Their Literary Exploration

19 Best Chapter Books for 3rd Graders Perfectly Tailored for Their Literary Exploration

When it comes to finding the best chapter books for 3rd graders, my journey isn’t solely about discovering captivating stories; it’s also about nurturing young minds and igniting a lifelong passion for reading. These early literary experiences I’m about to share with you play a pivotal role in shaping cognitive growth and can deeply influence the development of these young minds.

As an educator, a parent, and a guide, my quest for the best books for 3rd graders is fueled by a genuine desire to provide them with engaging and enriching content. You see, chapter books crafted for these 3rd graders act as a bridge, gracefully leading them from the world of picture books into the intricate narratives woven within novels. It’s a transition that not only captures their imagination but also cultivates crucial reading skills that will serve them well.

Navigating through the diverse array of books tailored for 3rd graders, I encounter the challenge of curating a collection that resonates with their varied interests and unique learning journeys. Whether it’s embarking on thrilling adventures, solving mysteries, immersing themselves in historical tales, or even exploring the world of math through specialized books, I’m determined to offer a selection that nurtures their holistic growth.

In my relentless pursuit, I’ve meticulously curated a list that brings together 19 captivating chapter book series, each perfectly designed for these 3rd graders. Within these pages, you’ll find friendship tales that echo the challenges of their age and exhilarating adventures that sweep them away to uncharted realms. Each book, thoughtfully selected, serves not just as entertainment but as a vessel for invaluable life lessons—truly a powerful instrument in nurturing their enduring love for reading.

I invite you to join me on this remarkable literary expedition as we venture into the world of chapter books for 3rd graders. Together, we’ll explore an array of genres, characters, and experiences, opening doors to new dimensions of imagination and knowledge.

Thank you! I would love to #clearthelist of picture books and chapter books for my NJ 3rd graders. Having a wide variety of books is important to creating life long learners! I also have a few dream flexible seating options ❤️ https://t.co/GQOERVAvnY pic.twitter.com/WYdJlphaWF — Ms. G (@MsGerner_3) July 19, 2023

What you’ll find on this page:

• Key 3rd Grade Reading Skills→
• What Reading Level Should a Third Grader Be At?→
• Turning 3rd Grade Readers Into Lifelong Readers→
• Dyamonde Daniel Series
• Stella Diaz Series
• Dragons in a Bag Series
• The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail
• Planet Omar Series
• The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher Series
• Who Was …? Series
• Jake the Fake Keeps It Real
• Weekends with Max and His Dad
• The Phantom Tollbooth
• The Princess Dolls
• George Washington’s Spy
• Vincent’s Starry Night and Other Stories: A Children’s History of Art
• The Infamous Ratsos Series
• I Survived Series
• Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing Series
• Road Trip with Max and His Mom
• Conclusion →

Key 3rd Grade Reading Skills

In the realm of reading, the third grade stands as a pivotal stage where essential skills take center stage. Two critical abilities come to the forefront: decoding and fluency. Decoding entails mastering patterns to unlock words and unveil their distinct sounds. Conversely, fluency represents the capacity to read swiftly and accurately. As third graders delve into their journey, they explore common prefixes like “dis-” in “disagree,” “re-” in “rebuild,” and “un-” in “unfriendly.” They also navigate through simple suffixes like “-able” in “agreeable” and “-less” in “homeless.” This path of decoding extends to embracing multisyllabic words such as “pho-to-graph” and “est-i-mate.” Alongside this, they navigate the realm of irregularly spelled words at their grade level, like “enough,” “especially,” and “confusion.”

A hallmark of proficient reading lies in the harmonious blend of accuracy and fluency. The ultimate aim for a third grader is to adeptly apply their honed decoding and fluency skills, enabling them to not only comprehend encountered texts but also read them aloud with seamless expression. This journey transcends the often-monotone cadence typical of young readers, and it’s perfectly natural for your child to undertake multiple read-throughs to attain this fluency; after all, practice is the path to perfection.

The trajectory of third-grade reading extends into the exploration of both fiction and nonfiction. This phase represents a significant stride in their reading mastery. Here, they delve into a diverse array of literary forms, spanning from poems to intricate technical texts like charts and glossaries. What sets these third graders apart is their capacity to independently tackle high-level grade 3 text across both fiction and nonfiction genres. They infuse their reading with expression, comprehension, and minimal reliance on adult assistance.

But this journey doesn’t conclude there; a pivotal dimension of third-grade reading lies in the construction of knowledge. Each book serves as a building block of wisdom, with every poem, story, or text contributing to their expanding reservoir of understanding. Think of reading comprehension as the architect, meticulously constructing a knowledge bank. With every reading experience, your child extracts main points, messages, and crucial facts. They then connect these insights to their existing knowledge, storing them for future use.

This process of knowledge-building takes shape in remarkable ways. From retelling a Native American myth from memory to dissecting characters and their evolution in narratives like “Sarah, Plain and Tall,” the world of a third grader blossoms with newfound insights. Distinguishing between varying points of view, comprehending narrative organization, and comparing character growth across texts become innate skills. On the nonfiction front, encountering works such as “The Story of Ruby Bridges” equips your child to discern historical sequences, grasp cause-and-effect dynamics, and compare central points across readings. Furthermore, their digital literacy comes into play as they adeptly employ keywords and links to efficiently extract information.

In the realm of third-grade reading, skills seamlessly intertwine with exploration, knowledge acquisition, and growth. This transformative journey shapes young minds into astute readers, equipping them with skills that transcend the confines of the pages they engage with.

What Reading Level Should a Third Grader Be At?

When considering the appropriate reading level for third graders, it’s essential to strike a balance that fosters both challenge and comfort. As we delve into the realm of the best chapter books for 3rd graders, the alignment between content and reading proficiency becomes paramount. The ideal reading level for these young minds typically falls within the range of grades 3 to 4, where the blend of engagement and skill enhancement thrives. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the individual variation in children’s reading abilities. A well-rounded approach involves offering a mix of books that provide a stimulating challenge while also allowing for an enjoyable reading experience.

Decoding benchmarks like R.R. and PM shed light on progress, with levels ranging from 12 to 25. Guided reading and leveled books play a significant role in nurturing growth, tailoring support to their current proficiency while fostering advancement. As third graders embark on their journey of exploration and enjoyment in reading, English lessons serve as a pivotal bridge from reading as a skill to reading for pleasure. The goal is to cultivate a lifelong connection between young readers and the captivating world of literature.

Editors’ Choice

If you are not into reading long articles and are looking for a good chapter book for 2nd graders, here are quick suggestion for you:

The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail by Richard Peck

Genre: Animal Fiction

• Why It’s Our Choice: I proudly present “The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail” as our Editor’s Choice. Richard Peck’s heartwarming tale takes readers on a journey of identity and self-discovery through the eyes of a nameless mouse. This endearing story teaches valuable lessons about perseverance and finding one’s place in the world. With themes of personal growth and a charming protagonist, this book is a must-read for children who enjoy stories of animals and inner strength.

Buy the Book: Amazon

Presenting a curated collection of the finest 19 chapter books tailored for third graders, thoughtfully selected from an initial selection of around 45 titles. This segment offers brief overviews of each chosen book, while more comprehensive descriptions can be found in later sections of the article.

As parents and educators, we’re always on the lookout for the best chapter books for 3rd graders, ones that not only entertain but also offer valuable life lessons. In this carefully curated selection, we’ll explore 19 captivating chapter book series that cater to a variety of interests and provide young readers with stories that resonate on a deeper level.

1. Dyamonde Daniel Series by Nikki Grimes

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Plot: Meet Dyamonde, a spunky third grader who believes kindness is the coolest thing ever. Through relatable challenges, Dyamonde learns important life lessons about doing the right thing and navigating the complexities of growing up.

Experience the transformative journey of Dyamonde Daniel, a spirited third grader who champions the significance of kindness. Nikki Grimes’ series navigates relatable challenges to impart valuable life lessons about empathy and making thoughtful choices. Through its realistic fiction lens, the series empowers young readers with an understanding of the importance of friendship and personal growth.

What It Teaches: The value of kindness, empathy, and making the right choices.

Best For: Kids who enjoy stories about friendship and personal growth will be captivated by Dyamonde’s adventures.

2. Stella Diaz Series by Angela Dominguez

Plot: Follow Stella, a charismatic character dealing with challenges such as learning English, bullying, and family dynamics. These books address real-life issues through the eyes of an immigrant, offering relatable stories and positive resolutions.

Angela Dominguez’s Stella Diaz series offers young readers a lens into resilience and cultural understanding. Stella’s charismatic character leads readers through a world of challenges, touching on issues such as language barriers and the power of friendship.

What It Teaches: Resilience, cultural understanding, and the power of friendship.

Best For: Readers interested in diverse perspectives and themes of resilience will connect with Stella’s journey.

3. Dragons in a Bag Series by Zetta Elliot

Genre: Fantasy

Plot: Join Jaxon on magical adventures when he discovers that his grandmother is a witch who entrusts him with caring for dragons. This fantastical series blends magic, time travel, and friendship against the backdrop of urban Brooklyn.

Embark on enchanting adventures with Jaxon as he discovers the magical world of dragons in Zetta Elliot’s captivating series. Blending fantasy, time travel, and the importance of friendship, these books encourage imagination, bravery, and the value of caring for others.

This series is a fantastical journey for young readers who relish modern twists on classic themes.

What It Teaches: Imagination, bravery, and the importance of caring for others.

Best For: Young fantasy enthusiasts who enjoy imaginative tales with a modern twist will be enthralled.

4. The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail by Richard Peck

Plot: Embark on a charming adventure with a nameless mouse as he sets out to uncover the mystery of his identity. This heartwarming tale takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and courage.

Richard Peck’s heartwarming tale of self-discovery takes readers on a poignant journey alongside a nameless mouse. Through its animal fiction lens, the story unfolds, instilling the significance of identity, self-discovery, and the power of perseverance.

This tale resonates with young readers seeking stories of personal growth and the joys of uncovering one’s true self.

What It Teaches: Identity, self-discovery, and the value of perseverance.

Best For: Kids who enjoy stories of animals and personal growth will appreciate this endearing tale.

5. Planet Omar Series by Zanib Mian

Plot: Join Omar, a young boy navigating life at a new school while embracing his Muslim identity. These books explore themes of acceptance, friendship, and cultural experiences, offering relatable stories for young readers.

Zanib Mian’s Planet Omar series invites readers to join Omar, a young boy navigating the world with his Muslim identity as a guide.

This realistic fiction series explores themes of acceptance, friendship, and staying true to oneself, offering relatable stories that celebrate cultural diversity. For readers seeking stories that mirror their own experiences, Omar’s adventures are an inspiring choice.

What It Teaches: Acceptance, diversity, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Best For: Children interested in cultural diversity and stories of identity will find resonance in Omar’s adventures.

6. The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher Series by Dana Alison Levy

Plot: Follow the Fletcher family, with their distinct personalities and humorous mishaps, as they navigate family life and school challenges. These books portray the ups and downs of family dynamics with heart and humor.

Dana Alison Levy’s heartwarming series follows the endearing Fletcher family through humorous mishaps and cherished moments. These realistic fiction books capture the essence of family bonds, teamwork, and the beauty of embracing imperfections. Through relatable scenarios, the series highlights the joys and challenges of familial relationships, delivering stories filled with warmth and humor.

What It Teaches: Family bonds, teamwork, and the beauty of imperfections.

Best For : Readers who enjoy heartwarming family stories with a touch of humor will be entertained.

7. Who Was …? Series by Various Authors

Genre: Nonfiction/Biography

Plot: Dive into the biographical world of famous figures from history with the “Who Was …?” series. With a diverse range of subjects, these books offer engaging insights into the lives and achievements of remarkable individuals.

The “Who Was …?” series, authored by a range of talented writers, immerses young readers in the lives of influential historical figures. With its engaging biographies, this nonfiction series sparks historical awareness and admiration for changemakers who shaped the world. This collection is a treasure trove for curious minds seeking to learn about remarkable individuals and their impactful contributions.

What It Teaches: Historical awareness, admiration for changemakers, and the power of individual impact.

Best For: Curious minds fascinated by history and influential figures will find these biographies engaging.

8. Jake the Fake Keeps It Real by Craig Robinson and Adam Mansbach

Genre: Humor

Plot: Meet Jake, a student who bluffs his way into a prestigious art and music academy. Through humor and heart, Jake navigates challenges while learning valuable lessons about being true to oneself.

Join Jake on a hilarious journey of self-discovery as he navigates the art and music academy in this humor-filled collaboration by Craig Robinson and Adam Mansbach.

Through its comedic lens, the story imparts lessons on authenticity, self-discovery, and the importance of honesty. For young readers who appreciate humor and relatable tales of self-identity, Jake’s adventure is a must-read.

What It Teaches: Authenticity, self-discovery, and the importance of honesty.

Best For: Kids who enjoy humor and stories about self-identity will appreciate Jake’s hilarious journey.

9. Weekends with Max and His Dad by Linda Urban

Plot: Join Max and his dad on weekends filled with adventures, pancakes, and unexpected surprises. Through these heartwarming tales, readers explore the special bond between father and son.

Linda Urban’s heartwarming series captures the magic of weekends shared between Max and his dad. These realistic fiction tales celebrate the joy of family connections and shared adventures, offering young readers a glimpse into the special bond between parent and child. The series resonates with those who cherish stories of family dynamics and memorable weekend escapades.

What It Teaches: Family connections, bonding, and the joys of shared experiences.

Best For: Children who appreciate stories about family dynamics and memorable weekends will enjoy these tales.

10. The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster

Plot: Embark on an imaginative journey with Milo as he explores the fantastical lands of the Kingdom of Wisdom after receiving a mysterious tollbooth. This classic tale is filled with wordplay, adventure, and whimsical characters.

Norton Juster’s classic tale, The Phantom Tollbooth, invites readers on a whimsical adventure into the Kingdom of Wisdom. Filled with wordplay, creativity, and fantastical characters, this fantasy novel teaches the importance of curiosity, imagination, and the power of words. For those seeking enchanting tales that challenge the mind, this journey through a land of imagination is a timeless choice.

What It Teaches: Curiosity, creativity, and the power of words and imagination.

Best For: Readers who love wordplay, fantasy, and thought-provoking adventures will be captivated.

11. Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Plot: Follow Julia as she navigates being cast as a Munchkin in a production of “The Wizard of Oz” due to her short stature. This empowering story celebrates individuality, self-acceptance, and the importance of embracing one’s uniqueness.

Holly Goldberg Sloan’s empowering tale, “Short,” follows Julia as she embraces her uniqueness while navigating the challenges of being cast as a Munchkin. This realistic fiction story celebrates self-confidence, self-acceptance, and the value of inner strength. For readers who resonate with themes of self-image and self-esteem, Julia’s journey is an inspiring exploration of individuality.

What It Teaches: Self-confidence, self-acceptance, and the value of inner strength.

Best For: Kids who resonate with themes of self-image and self-esteem will find this story empowering.

12. The Princess Dolls by Ellen Schwartz

Genre: Historical Fiction

Plot: Set in 1942 Vancouver, Esther and Michiko’s friendship is tested when Michiko and her family are sent to an internment camp due to their Japanese heritage. This thought-provoking tale explores friendship, privilege, and the challenges of difficult times.

Ellen Schwartz’s historical fiction, “The Princess Dolls,” transports readers to 1942 Vancouver, where Esther and Michiko’s friendship faces the test of difficult times. This thought-provoking tale explores empathy, friendship, and awareness of historical injustice, resonating with those interested in historical fiction and the enduring power of friendship.

What It Teaches: Empathy, friendship, and awareness of historical injustice.

Best For: Readers interested in historical fiction and themes of friendship will find this story impactful.

13. George Washington’s Spy by Elvira Woodruff

Plot: Join Matt and his friends as they travel back to 1776 Boston, becoming embroiled in a plot to outwit British soldiers. This historical adventure offers a blend of action, humor, and a glimpse into the American Revolution.

Elvira Woodruff’s captivating historical adventure, “George Washington’s Spy,” invites readers to journey back to 1776 Boston, where young Matt and his friends embark on a thrilling mission. Through the blend of action, humor, and historical significance, this book teaches historical awareness, bravery, and the importance of pivotal moments.

What It Teaches: Historical awareness, bravery, and the significance of pivotal moments.

Best For: Kids intrigued by history and adventure will be engrossed by this time-traveling tale.

14. Vincent’s Starry Night and Other Stories: A Children’s History of Art by Michael Bird

Genre: Nonfiction/Art History

Plot: Dive into the world of art history with this beautifully illustrated book that introduces young readers to major art movements and iconic artists. Through stories and captivating illustrations, children explore the evolution of art.

Michael Bird’s beautifully illustrated book, “Vincent’s Starry Night and Other Stories,” guides young readers through the world of art history. Introducing major art movements and iconic artists, this nonfiction work fosters art appreciation, creativity, and an understanding of artistic styles. Budding artists and those curious about art history will find this book both informative and visually engaging.

What It Teaches: Art appreciation, creativity, and an understanding of artistic styles.

Best For: Budding artists and those interested in art history will find this book both informative and visually appealing.

15. Because by Mo Willems, Illustrated by Amber Ren

Plot: Discover the story of a young girl who becomes a composer, highlighting the journey of artistic experimentation and hard work. This charming book captures the essence of creativity and the dedication required to achieve one’s artistic goals.

“Because,” a collaboration by Mo Willems and Amber Ren, weaves a charming tale of a young girl’s journey to becoming a composer.

Through creativity and dedication, this realistic fiction story captures the essence of pursuing one’s passion. For young readers who appreciate stories of determination and the joy of creativity, this inspirational tale is a delightful choice.

What It Teaches: Creativity, perseverance, and the joys of pursuing one’s passion.

Best For: Kids who appreciate creativity, music, and stories of determination will be inspired by this tale.

16. The Infamous Ratsos Series by Kara LaReau

Plot: Follow the misadventures of Louie and Ralphie Ratsos, two rat brothers determined to be tough guys. Despite their efforts, their kind-hearted nature often shines through, leading to hilarious and heartwarming outcomes.

Kara LaReau’s “The Infamous Ratsos” series follows Louie and Ralphie Ratsos on their misadventures as they navigate their determination to be tough guys. The series humorously explores kindness, empathy, and the unexpected rewards of being true to oneself. With relatable characters and themes of friendship, this humor-filled series offers valuable lessons wrapped in entertaining stories.

What It Teaches: Kindness, empathy, and the unexpected rewards of being oneself.

Best For: Readers who enjoy humor, relatable characters, and themes of friendship will love the Ratsos’ escapades.

17. I Survived Series by Lauren Tarshis

Plot: Dive into gripping historical adventures with the “I Survived” series, which takes readers on thrilling journeys through significant historical events. These books blend history and fiction, providing an immersive experience for young readers.

Lauren Tarshis’ “I Survived” series presents gripping historical adventures that transport readers to significant events throughout history. Blending history and fiction, these immersive books inspire resilience and impart the power of survival. For adventure-seekers interested in history, these books offer an engaging experience.

What It Teaches: Historical events, resilience, and the power of survival.

Best For: Adventure-seekers interested in history will find these books captivating.

18. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing Series by Judy Blume

Plot: Join fourth grader Peter Hatcher and his toddler brother Fudge in a series of hilarious misadventures. Through humor and relatable situations, these books explore the challenges and joys of sibling dynamics and family life.

Judy Blume’s “Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing” series introduces readers to the hilarious misadventures of Peter Hatcher and his toddler brother Fudge.

Through humor and relatable situations, the series navigates the challenges and joys of sibling dynamics and family life. Readers who enjoy humor and stories about family relationships will find these books a delightful read.

What It Teaches: Sibling relationships, family dynamics, and the humorous side of life.

Best For: Kids who enjoy humor and stories about family relationships will find these books delightful.

19. Road Trip with Max and His Mom by Linda Urban

Plot: Join Max and his mom on a road trip filled with adventure, surprises, and new experiences. Through these heartwarming tales, young readers explore the bond between parent and child and the excitement of exploring new places.

Linda Urban’s heartwarming series takes readers on a road trip of adventure, surprises, and shared experiences between Max and his mom. Celebrating family bonds, exploration, and the joy of new discoveries, these realistic fiction tales resonate with children who appreciate stories about travel, family dynamics, and the thrill of exploration.

What It Teaches: Family bonds, exploration, and the joy of shared adventures.

Best For: Children who enjoy stories about travel, family dynamics, and exploration will find these tales engaging.

How to Turn 3rd Grade Readers Into Lifelong Readers

Turning third-grade readers into lifelong readers is a journey that requires strategic approaches to nurture their love for reading. Reading with them is a powerful strategy, especially for children who may not yet have the discipline to read alone. Investing 15 to 30 minutes daily to read together not only establishes a bonding routine but also aids their progress. As they grow, transitioning to shared reading and taking turns can empower their confidence and fluency. Maintaining your involvement ensures you can monitor their growth and offer guidance.

Tailoring reading material to their interests is key. Engage them with books related to their favorite movies or cartoons, igniting their enthusiasm for reading. A trip to the book store allows them to discover books that resonate with them, fostering a sense of ownership over their reading choices. Award-winning books are a reliable starting point. Researching top children’s books online, based on their grade and reading level, introduces them to engaging narratives that captivate their imagination.

Incentives can play a significant role in sustaining their reading routine. Track their reading time and offer rewards that align with your budget and messaging. For some, a weekly pizza outing serves as a motivating treat for staying committed to reading. Monitoring progress is essential; jot down their reading milestones and consider incorporating sticker sheets for visual tracking. Encourage them to earn stickers for each completed book, reinforcing positive reading habits and accomplishments.

Audiobooks are an effective tool for addressing challenges in focusing during reading. They provide an alternative way to experience stories, catering to diverse learning styles. Integrating audiobooks into their reading repertoire diversifies their engagement and expands their literary exposure. Utilize a combination of audiobooks and traditional books to optimize their reading journey, enhancing comprehension and enjoyment.

In the pursuit of transforming reluctant third-grade readers into lifelong enthusiasts, these strategies offer a roadmap for success. By cultivating their reading experience through shared reading, personalized selections, rewards, progress tracking, and audiobooks, we pave the way for a future where reading becomes an inherent part of their lives.

Based on information from the US Department of Education, a significant percentage of black fourth-grade boys struggle with reading proficiency. This raises the question of what approaches are necessary to cultivate effective reading skills for all children. In an enlightening presentation, educator and author Alvin Irby delves into the reading obstacles confronted by many black children. He sheds light on the strategies culturally competent educators employ to assist all children in developing a strong reading identity. Prepare to reconsider traditional teaching methods as Irby offers insights into fostering successful reading experiences.

Useful Resources

• Tips for Encouraging Young Readers
• How to Choose Age-Appropriate Books
• Importance of Reading Aloud to Children

In the enchanting world of literature, the role of chapter books for 3rd graders is profound. These books shape young minds, nurture creativity, and instill a love for reading that will accompany them throughout life. As you embark on this literary journey with your 3rd grader, remember that each book is a stepping stone towards a broader literary universe.

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Reading Middle Grade

Books for Kids and Grown Ups

80 Best Chapter Books for 3rd Graders

Looking for the best chapter books for 3rd graders? You’re in the right place! While as an adult, middle-grade books are my sweet spot, my next best thing would definitely be chapter books!

I love chapter books or early readers, as they’re sometimes called, because they introduce new readers to longer stories. Options for younger kids (kindergarten to second grade) tend to have fewer pages, shorter chapters, and even larger fonts (expect a post on those soon). However, chapter books for third graders go a step further.

Just for reference, in the States, third graders are generally about eight or nine years old. If you’re fortunate, you may already have a big reader on your hands who isn’t afraid to shoot for younger middle-grade titles like some of those on this list.

Typically, though most eight-year-olds prefer smaller chapter books, under 150 pages, with lots of pictures and larger fonts than the typical middle-grade book. Kids at this age also like series — they want to remain in the same universe for as long as possible, so most of the books on this list are part of series.

If you have a more advanced 3rd grade reader, check out the books on my 4th grade and 5th grade lists for more options.

These chapter books for 3rd graders are good for independent reading and also for readalouds! All except one are heavily illustrated, and I’ve tried to include picks for a variety of interests.

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80 Best Books for Third Graders

Here are 80 best books for third graders:

Stella Diaz Has Something to Say

Stella Diaz loves marine animals, especially her betta fish, Pancho. But Stella Diaz is not a betta fish. Betta fish like to be alone, while Stella loves spending time with her mom and brother and her best friend Jenny. Trouble is, Jenny is in another class this year, and Stella feels very lonely. When a new boy arrives in Stella’s class, she really wants to be his friend, but sometimes Stella accidentally speaks Spanish instead of English and pronounces words wrong, which makes her turn  roja . Plus, she has to speak in front of her whole class for a big presentation at school! But she better get over her fears soon, because Stella Díaz has something to say!

Mercy Watson to the Rescue (Series)

To Mr. and Mrs. Watson, Mercy is not just a pig – she’s a porcine wonder. And to the portly and good-natured Mercy, the Watsons are an excellent source of buttered toast, not to mention that buttery-toasty feeling she gets when she snuggles into bed with them. This is not, however, so good for the Watsons’ bed. BOOM! CRACK! As the bed and its occupants slowly sink through the floor, Mercy escapes in a flash – “to alert the fire department,” her owners assure themselves. But could Mercy possibly have another emergency in mind – like a sudden craving for their neighbors’ sugar cookies? Welcome to the wry and endearing world of Mercy Watson – an ebullient new character for early chapter-book readers in a series that’s destined to be a classic.

Maya and the Robot

Maya and the Robot  is Eve L. Ewing’s debut middle grade book. It centers a young Black girl, Maya who’s entering the fifth grade. She’s disappointed when she’s placed in a different class than her two best friends, Jada and MJ. Quickly, it seems like they’re forming a new friend group and barely spending time with her, especially since they don’t even have the same lunch period. But things begin to look up when Maya finds a broken down robot in the neighborhood store where she helps out. After setting the robot up to work, Maya suddenly has a new best friend, but how long will this last? And what happens when the robot, Ralph malfunctions?

The Princess and the Absolutely Not a Princess (Miranda and Maude #1)

Princess Miranda does not want to go to school. She wants to shoe shop, plan parties, and decorate the castle. Maude cannot wait for school. She loves rules and social justice and getting good grades. She also loves hard-boiled eggs, much to Miranda’s dismay. When a tense first week of school results in Maude getting excluded from the Royal Birthday Party, Maude decides she’s found her first fight for social justice: a birthday boycott. This hilarious, heartfelt chapter-book series teaches empathy, and reminds us that your very best friend could be one desk away.

Marya Khan and the Incredible Henna Party (Marya Khan #1)  

Marya’s eighth birthday is coming up in a week, and all she wants is an over-the-top birthday party just like the ones Alexa, her rich neighbor, always throws. When Alexa parades into school with fancy invitations, Marya can’t help herself—she claims that she’s having the most epic henna party ever. Now she has to convince her family to make it happen.

Enter Operation Help the Khans! Marya’s siblings clearly need help with their projects. Maybe she could cook dinner for her parents, or clean her grandmother’s room? Except everything Marya does seems to end in disaster. Will Marya and her family be able pull it together and throw the best party ever?!

Lola Levine Is Not Mean

Lola Levine likes writing in her  diario , sipping her mom’s  cafe con leche , eating her dad’s matzo ball soup, and playing soccer with her team, the Orange Smoothies. So what if she doesn’t always fit in? Lola is fierce on the field, but when a soccer game during recess gets too competitive, she accidentally hurts her classmate Juan Gomez. Now everyone is calling her Mean Lola Levine! Lola feels terrible, but with the help of her family, her super best friend, Josh Blot, and a little “pencil power,” she just might be able to turn it all around. In this first book in a series, young readers will be inspired by Lola’s big heart and creative spirit as she learns to navigate the second grade in true Lola style!

A Boy Called Bat 

For Bixby Alexander Tam (nicknamed Bat), life tends to be full of surprises—some of them good, some not so good. Today, though, is a good-surprise day. Bat’s mom, a veterinarian, has brought home a baby skunk, which she needs to take care of until she can hand him over to a wild-animal shelter. But the minute Bat meets the kit, he knows they belong together. And he’s got one month to show his mom that a baby skunk might just make a pretty terrific pet.

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.  Then the two intrepid girls and one great dog follow the trail through the streets of San Francisco, discovering hidden passageways, buried secrets, and even pirate treasure.   But will they be able to rescue Dad? You bet your best biscuit, they will! Wendelin Van Draanen’s new mystery is the ulti-mutt kid-pleasing caper.

J.D. and the Great Barber Battle

In  J.D. and the Great Barber Battle , eight-year-old J.D. has to devise a means to correct a haircut gone wrong. His mom obviously doesn’t care much about lining his cut evenly, and J.D. gets laughed at school by his friends. Eventually, after using his little brother as a subject, J.D. figures out how to cut his own hair — and he does a fantastic job! J.D. gets so good at cutting hair and coming up with creative hairstyles that his schoolmates start asking him to do theirs. The only barbershop in town is owned by an elderly man Mr. Henry and run by his son, Mr. Henry Jr. Unlike J.D., they only know three cut styles, so there’s no real competition. Until Mr. Henry Jr. tries to stop J.D. from running the business out of his house and the two have to engage in a “Barber Battle.”

Anisa’s International Day

In  Anisa’s International Day , third grader Anisa is excited about her class’s international day. She’s going to ask her mom to bring samosas for the class and share her Pakistani culture with everyone. But before she gets to reveal her plans, another classmate snags the samosa spot. As a creative, Anisa is desperate to be unique. With her aunt getting married soon, she decides that mehndi is the perfect activity to introduce. But first, she’ll need to resolve a friendship misunderstanding.

Dog Days: The Carver Chronicles

It’s tough being the new kid at Carver Elementary.

Gavin had lots of friends at his old school, but the kids here don’t even know that he’s pretty good at skateboarding, or how awesome he is at soccer.

 And when his classmate Richard comes over and the boys end up in trouble, not only does Gavin risk losing his one new friend, he has to take care of his great aunt Myrtle’s horrible little dog as punishment.

To make matters worse, Gavin seems to have attracted the attention of the school bully. Will he be able to avoid getting pounded at the skate park? And how is he ever going to prove he’s cool with a yappy little Pomeranian wearing a pink bow at his side?

Jada Jones: Rock Star

When Jada Jones’s best friend moves away, school feels like the last place she wants to be. She’d much rather wander outside looking for cool rocks to add to her collection, since finding rocks is much easier than finding friends. So when Jada’s teacher announces a class project on rocks and minerals, Jada finally feels like she’s in her element. The only problem: one of her teammates doesn’t seem to like any of Jada’s ideas. She doesn’t seem to like Jada all that much, either. Can Jada figure out a way to make a winning science project and a new friend?

Definitely Dominguita: Knight of the Cape

All Dominguita wants to do is read. Especially the books in Spanish that Abuela gave to her just before she moved away. They were classics that Abuela and Dominguita read together, classics her abuela brought with her all the way from Cuba when she was a young girl. It helps Dominguita feel like Abuela’s still there with her. One of her favorites, Don Quixote, tells of a brave knight errant who tries to do good deeds. Dominguita decides that she, too, will become a knight and do good deeds around her community, creating a grand adventure for her to share with her abuela. And when the class bully tells Dominguita that girls can’t be knights, Dom is determined to prove him wrong. With a team of new friends, can Dominguita learn how to be the hero of her own story?

Jake the Fake Keeps It Real

Jake can barely play an instrument, not even a kazoo. And his art? It’s better suited for Pictionary than Picasso. Which is a real problem because Jake just faked his way into the Music and Art Academy for the gifted and talented (and Jake is pretty sure he is neither). More jokester than composer, Jake will have to think of something quick before the last laugh is on him.

Weekends with Max and His Dad

Max and his dad love their weekends together. Weekends mean pancakes, pizza, spy games, dog walking, school projects, and surprising neighbors! Every weekend presents a small adventure as Max gets to know his dad’s new neighborhood—and learns some new ways of thinking about home. Acclaimed author Linda Urban deftly portrays a third-grader’s inner world during a time of transition in this sweet and funny illustrated story that bridges the early reader and middle grade novel.

Betty the Yeti Hates Spaghetti

Betty and her family of yetis just moved to their new apartment. Betty’s never lived around humans before now. When friendly neighbors bring the Yetis dinner, Betty eats spaghetti for the first time and it’s nothing like she expected! Will Betty adjust to a new neighborhood, new foods, and new friends?

News from Me, Lucy McGee

Even if it means skipping out on Songwriting Club? Even if she’s always been too popular to give you the time of day?  Even if she asks you to paint the walls and serve the tea…?  Soon Lucy McGee realizes she’s been tricked into becoming mean girl Scarlett Tandy’s errand girl—and she’s getting in trouble for skipping her after-school activities.  Things get complicated as she tries to balance school, friends, frenemies, songwriting, and family expectations.  Clearly Lucy has to strike back!  But it turns out that singing and playing your ukulele—and having loads of fun doing it—are the best revenge.  In this new series from  state-award favorite Mary Amato, a spunky heroine matches wits with a mean girl and learns that middle school can be a balancing act—so you can’t lose sight of what’s important.

Aven Green: Sleuthing Machine

Third-grader Aven Green has been solving mysteries for a  whole month —cracking such cases as  The Mystery of the Cranky Mom . But can this perceptive detective solve two cases at the same time? First, her teacher’s lunch bag disappears. Then Aven’s great-grandma’s dog goes missing. Fortunately, since Aven was born without arms, all the “arm” cells went to her super-powered brain instead. (That’s her theory.) This hilarious chapter book showcases a new side to Dusti Bowling’s unforgettable protagonist.

Road Trip with Max and His Mom

Third-grader Max is heading off on a road trip with Mom. With miles to travel, cousins to meet, and a tall roller coaster to ride (maybe), it will be an adventure! But Max always spends weekends with Dad; will Dad be okay if he’s left behind? And will Max be brave enough for all the new explorations ahead of him?

Like Bug Juice on a Burger (Series)

I hate camp. I just hate it. I wish I didn’t. But I do. Being here is worse than bug juice on a burger. Or homework on Thanksgiving. Or water seeping into my shoes. In this sequel to the critically acclaimed  Like Pickle Juice on a Cookie , Eleanor is off to summer camp. At first she’s excited to carry on the family tradition at Camp Wallumwahpuck, but when she gets there she finds icky bugs, terrible food, and worst of all: swim class, where she just can’t seem to keep up with everyone else. But as the days go on, Eleanor realizes that even the most miserable situations can be full of special surprises and that growing up is full of belly flops.

The Year of the Book (Anna Wang Series)

In Chinese,  peng you  means friend. But in any language, all Anna knows for certain is that friendship is complicated. When Anna needs company, she turns to her books. Whether traveling through  A Wrinkle in Time , or peering over  My Side of the Mountain , books provide what real life cannot—constant companionship and insight into her changing world. Books, however, can’t tell Anna how to find a true friend. She’ll have to discover that on her own. In the tradition of classics like Maud Hart Lovelace’s Betsy-Tacy books and Eleanor Estes’  One Hundred Dresses , this novel subtly explores what it takes to make friends and what it means to be one.

Big Foot and Little Foot (Book #1) 

Hugo is a young Sasquatch who longs for adventure. Boone is young boy who longs to see a Sasquatch. When their worlds collide, they become the unlikeliest pair of best friends.   At the Academy for Curious Squidges, Hugo learns all manner of Sneaking—after all, the most important part of being a Sasquatch is staying hidden from humans. But Hugo dreams of roaming free in the Big Wide World rather than staying cooped up in caves. When he has an unexpected run-in with a young human boy, Hugo seizes the opportunity for a grand adventure. Soon, the two team up to search high and low for mythical beasts, like Ogopogos and Snoot-Nosed Gints. Through discovering these new creatures, together, Big Foot and Little Foot explore the ins and outs of each other’s very different worlds but learn that, deep down, maybe they’re not so different after all.

Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey

Marisol Rainey’s mother was born in the Philippines. Marisol’s father works and lives part-time on an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico. And Marisol, who has a big imagination and likes to name inanimate objects, has a tree in her backyard she calls Peppina . . . but she’s way too scared to climb it. This all makes Marisol the only girl in her small Louisiana town with a mother who was born elsewhere and a father who lives elsewhere (most of the time)—the only girl who’s fearful of adventure and fun. Will Marisol be able to salvage her summer and have fun with Jada, her best friend? Maybe. Will Marisol figure out how to get annoying Evie Smythe to leave her alone? Maybe. Will Marisol ever get to spend enough real time with her father? Maybe. Will Marisol find the courage to climb Peppina? Maybe.

Sejal Sinha Battles Superstorms

Sejal Sinha is looking forward to celebrating Diwali with her family. But when a hurricane appears, Sejal and her cousin Mira learn that the house is in danger from the imminent storm. With the help of Sejal’s favorite stuffed animal, Professor Cheetah, the two girls use Cardboard Box Magic to build their own Hurricane Hunter and fly into the eye of the hurricane! They learn about a project from the 1960s called Project Stormfury, where a team actually tried to stop hurricanes. Can Sejal and Mira do what the previous Stormfury team couldn’t and battle the superstorm?

Just Harriet

Just Harriet  is a new chapter book/young middle grade book by Elana K. Arnold who wrote the  A Boy Called BAT  series. This new title features young Harriet whose family is undergoing a change. Her 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, 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.

The Magnificent Mya Tibbs: Spirit Week Showdown

The Magnificent Mya Tibbs is one of those books that I’ve recommended several times on the basis of trusted reviewers. It was a pleasure to finally meet Mya Tibbs for myself. Fourth grader Mya Tibbs is excited for Spirit Week! She has made plans to partner with her best friend Naomi Jackson. Mya’s life seems pretty good with her brother Nugget, his best friend affectionately known as Fish, and her other friends, identical twins Starr and Skye. The one scary part is Mean Connie Tate, who everyone knows is the biggest fourth-grade bully. So, you can imagine Mya’s terror when she’s partnered with Connie and Connie refuses to trade partners. On top of that, Naomi is mad at Mya for not trying harder to trade partners. Even the twins who agree on everything are getting torn apart because Skye wants to stay friends with Mya, while Starr is on Naomi’s side. But as Mya works with Connie, she realizes that things aren’t as she’s thought. In the meantime, her brother Nugget is befriending a popular boy, Solo, and doing his homework to avoid being called “word nerd Nugget” — at the expense of his friendship with his best friend, Fish. At home, the kids do not want to worry their parents since their dad works super hard at his store and their mom is pregnant with a third child. Both kids learn a lot about themselves and what true friendship really means.

Bobby vs. Girls (Accidentally)

Meet Robert Carver Ellis-Chan — a perfectly normal fourth-grader who gets into perfectly crazy situations! Like when he was running for class president and discovered his big sister’s panties (static-) clinging to the back of his sweater. Or when he got stuck to the rare sticky (and stinky) Koloff tree on a field trip. . . . Then there’s his family — busy mom, ex-pro football player dad, a bossy older sister and an adoring younger one — and best friends (one of whom is a secret, because she’s a *girl*). Life may be complicated for Bobby, but it’s going to turn out just fine.

A New Friend (1) (The Adventures of Sophie Mouse)

In the first book of The Adventures of Sophie Mouse, springtime has arrived at Silverlake Forest! The animals are coming out of their homes, buds are blooming on the trees, and the air smells of honeysuckles and tree bark. Sophie Mouse can’t wait to go back to school after the long winter break. Even better, there’s a new student in class—Sophie loves meeting new animals! But the class gasps when Owen enters: he’s a snake! No one is brave enough to sit near him, or play with Owen at recess, or even talk to him. Can Sophie help her friends understand that Owen’s not scary after all? With easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, the Adventures of Sophie Mouse chapter books are perfect for beginning readers.

Planet Omar: Accidental Trouble Magnet

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?

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

Emily Adams, Maddie Wilson, Bella Diaz, and Sam Sharma are eight-year-olds with one special thing in common: they love to create. They each have unique talents, too! Emily is great at constructing and building; Maddie has an eye for fashion, fabrics, and sewing; Bella is a gadget whiz; and Sam is a gifted artist. Together, these four crafty friends dream up new projects to design, build, and create and through their experiences, they’ll learn how to handle various obstacles at school and in their everyday eight-year-old lives. In the first Craftily Ever After book, best friends Emily and Maddie are so close that they spend most of their free time together, and wear matching friendship bracelets, too! One day, a new student named Bella Diaz shows up at Mason Creek Elementary. Maddie immediately befriends her, discovering that she too is really crafty. As Maddie and Bella spend more time together, Emily finds herself spending more time  alone …until she realizes that the boy who’s been sitting next to her in class this whole time loves to draw and create just like she does. When Emily’s friendship bracelet falls off and Maddie doesn’t even notice, Emily begins to think that maybe it was an  un -friendship bracelet after all.

Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker

Beatrice does her best thinking upside down. Hanging from trees by her knees, doing handstands . . . for Beatrice Zinker, upside down works every time. She was definitely upside down when she and her best friend, Lenny, agreed to wear matching ninja suits on the first day of third grade. But when Beatrice shows up at school dressed in black, Lenny arrives with a cool new outfit and a cool new friend. Even worse, she seems to have forgotten all about the top-secret operation they planned! Can Beatrice use her topsy-turvy way of thinking to save the mission, mend their friendship, and flip things sunny-side up?

Zara’s Rules for Record-Breaking Fun

Ten-year-old Zara has been crowned Queen of the Neighborhood by a loving neighbor. Zara makes fair rules for all the games she and her brother Zayd play with the other kids and Zara likes things just like that. But when her neighbor, Mr. Chapman moves out, a new family moves in. Their daughter Naomi has other ideas for playing and the other kids seem to like many of her ideas too. To win back her crown, Zara decides she’ll try to break a World Guiness Record. But as time goes on, she realizes that it may just be better to share her crown instead.

Meena Meets Her Match

Meena’s life is full of color. She wears vibrant clothes, eats every shade of the rainbow, and plucks eye-catching trash from the neighborhood recycling bins. But when Meena’s best friend, Sofía, stops playing with her at recess and she experiences an unexpected and scary incident at breakfast, nothing can fight off the gray. That’s when Meena comes up with a plan to create the BEST and most COLORFUL Valentine’s Day Box in the class. With the help of her cousin, Eli, and her stuffed zebra, Raymond, Meena discovers that the best way to break through the blah is to let her true colors shine.

Make Way for Dyamonde Daniel (Series)

Dyamonde Daniel may be new in town, but that doesn’t stop her from making a place for herself in a jiffy. With her can-do attitude and awesome brain power she takes the whole neighborhood by storm. The only thing puzzling her is the other new kid in her class. He’s grouchy – but Dyamonde’s determined to get to the bottom of his attitude and make a friend.

Henry Huggins

In Newbery Medal-winning author Beverly Cleary’s first novel, boys and girls alike will instantly be charmed by an average boy whose life is turned upside-down when he meets a loveable puppy with a nose for mischief. Just as Henry Huggins is complaining that nothing exciting ever happens, a friendly dog sits down beside him and looks pleadingly at his ice-cream cone. From that moment on, the two are inseparable. But when Ribsy’s original owner appears, trying to reclaim his dog, Henry’s faced with the possibility of losing his new best friend. Has Klickitat Street seen the last of rambunctious Ribsy?

Jasmine Toguchi, Mochi Queen (Series)

Eight-year-old Jasmine Toguchi is a flamingo fan, tree climber, and top-notch mess-maker! She’s also tired of her big sister, Sophie, always getting to do things first. For once, Jasmine wishes SHE could do something  before  Sophie ― something special, something different. The New Year approaches, and as the Toguchi family gathers in Los Angeles to celebrate, Jasmine is jealous that her sister gets to help roll mochi balls by hand with the women. Her mom says that Jasmine is still too young to join in, so she hatches a plan to help the men pound the mochi rice instead. Surely her sister has never done THAT before. But pounding mochi is traditionally reserved for boys. And the mochi hammer is heavier than it looks. Can Jasmine build her case and her mochi-making muscles in time for New Year’s Day?

Sona Sharma, Very Best Big Sister?

Sona Sharma’s house is full of three generations of people who joke often and argue sometimes. Relatives come over unannounced, the phone rings frequently, and friends drop by all the time. Then one day Amma tells Sona that she is going to have a baby. Is that good? Sona isn’t so sure. She doesn’t want to share her room or her things with a new baby, not to mention the attention of Amma, Appa, Thatha, and Paatti. And despite Amma’s assurance that the sky always has room for new stars, Sona doesn’t feel stretchy or bighearted like the sky. But when she learns there will be a baby-naming ceremony, she’s determined to find the best name for her new brother or sister—one as nice as her own, a Hindi word for “gold.” Perfectly pitched to young readers, this tale of warming up to change is followed by a glossary of words from India to explore in the story.

Stink and the Great Guinea Pig Express (Series)

When three guinea pigs from the local pet shop make a great escape, Stink Moody and his friends Webster and Sophie spring into action. Ta-da! The Fantastic Fur Friends round up the little hairballs and bring them safely back to Mrs. Birdwistle’s shop, where they discover — oohla- la! — guinea pig pandemonium! Time for the Great Guinea Pig Giveaway! Stink and company hit the road aboard the Squeals on Wheels Express in a crazy quest to find good homes for 101 squealing, whistling, chirping, wiggly piggies. FUR-eaky!

The Girl in the Tree

Cordelia is a girl who lives in a tree in Central Park. Found as a baby and raised by an adoring squirrel named Shakespeare, Cordelia acts just like any other young squirrel, leaping across treetops, chasing her squirrel friends, and sleeping in her treehouse. Still, she wonders what it would be like to have a human friend, and when she stumbles into a gymnastics class, it seems like she might have her chance. Living in a tree might have made Cordelia an exceptional gymnast, but people skills are a whole other matter. Even if Cordelia can’t fully fit in with the other kids, can she at least make one friend? Cordelia starts her journey to be—not exactly a girl, but more than a squirrel—squirlish!

The Daily Bark: The Puppy Problem (The Daily Bark, 1)

Gizmo is a city dog, so when he moves to the village of Puddle with his journalist human, he doesn’t know WHAT to expect. Certainly not FLOWERS. Or BEES. And he couldn’t have even imagined MUD. Luckily he’s got Jilly, the wolfhound next door, to show him around. But Jilly has a problem. Her puppies are going to be adopted by new owners who live far away — she’ll never see them again! Gizmo has got a nose for a story, and a great idea to help Jilly. What if the dogs of Puddle started a newspaper to get the word out and keep these pups closer to home? Stop the presses!

Mia Mayhem vs. the Mighty Robot (Series)

Mia’s best friend, Eddie, has built an awesome robot that’s supposed to be a mighty cleaning machine! And at first, everything runs smoothly as the robot helps around the house and at regular school! But things quickly go haywire when Mia accidentally makes the robot grow three times its normal size. Does Mia have what it takes to go up against a mighty, big robot?

Wednesday and Woof #1: Catastrophe

Detective Tip #1 Try not to jump to conclusions.  Wednesday and her service dog, Woof, are the best detectives in the whole world—or at least their neighborhood. But can they find Mrs. Winters’s missing cat before her big trip? Or will the case of the cat-napped kitty be their first unsolved mystery? 

Donut Feed the Squirrels

Norma and Belly would really really really really really like a donut. With a burned breakfast and a cranky donut seller at the local food truck, they may be stuck with only nuts to eat . . . unless they can steal the biggest, most delicious donut of their tiny lives! Mika Song gives readers something to laugh at as these squirrels try their hardest to get some donuts while just about everything goes wrong. A fun “donut caper” graphic novel that focuses on madcap action, problem-solving, and the power of working together.

Bernice Buttman, Model Citizen

When you’re a Buttman, the label “bully” comes with the territory, and Bernice lives up to her name. But life as a bully is lonely, and if there’s one thing Bernice really wants (even more than becoming a Hollywood stuntwoman), it’s a true friend. After her mom skedaddles and leaves her in a new town with her aunt (who is also a real live nun), Bernice decides to mend her ways and become a model citizen. If her plan works, she just might be able to get herself to Hollywood Hills Stunt Camp! But it’s hard to be kind when no one shows you kindness, so a few cheesy pranks may still be up her sleeve. . . .

Super-Serious Mysteries #1: The Untimely Passing of Nicholas Fart

Nicholas Fart toppled from his chair, rolled across the carpet, and passed out cold on the floor after smelling something foul. It was the perfect crime.  Never fear! Penelope Whiff is on the case, and she is sure to get to the bottom of this who-dealt-it mystery. Can she sniff out the source of the nasty, PUTRID smell? In a new series that promises to be laugh-out-loud funny, Josh Crute teams up with dynamic illustrator James Rey Sanchez to introduce young readers to a gang of friends and a sleuth who will stop at nothing to solve the silliest of mysteries.

Dog Man: From the Creator of Captain Underpants (Dog Man #1)

George and Harold have created a new breed of justice. With the head of a dog and the body of a human, this heroic hound digs into deception, claws after crooks, rolls over robbers, and scampers after squirrels. Will he be able to resist the call of the wild to answer the call of duty? Dav Pilkey’s wildly popular Dog Man series appeals to readers of all ages and explores universally positive themes, including empathy, kindness, persistence, and the importance of being true to one’s self.

A Bad Case of Stripes

“What we have here is a bad case of stripes. One of the worst I’ve ever seen!”Camilla Cream loves lima beans, but she never eats them. Why? Because the other kids in her school don’t like them. And Camilla Cream is very, very worried about what other people think of her. In fact, she’s so worried that she’s about to break out in…a bad case of stripes!

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! The first story  Too Small Tola  shows what happens when Tola accompanies Grandmommy to the market. In the second story,  Small but Mighty , Tola deals with a bully while trying to fetch water at a public tap. The last story,  Easter and Eid  shows how Tola comes to the rescue when their beloved tailor sustains an injury.

Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle

Meet Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle! She lives in an upside-down house with a kitchen that is always full of freshly baked cookies. She was even married to a pirate once! Best of all, she knows everything there is to know about children.   When Mary turns into an Answer-Backer or Dick becomes Selfish or Allen decides to be a Slow-Eater-Tiny-Bite-Taker, Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle has the perfect cure. And her solutions always work, with plenty of laughs along the way. This is the book that started it all! Perfect for fans of Mary Poppins and Nanny McPhee, this classic series is all about learning and problem-solving. Young readers will love this book.

Frankie Sparks and the Class Pet

The best thing EVER is happening in Frankie Sparks’s third grade class: They are getting a class pet! Their teacher, Miss Cupid, tells them they will vote on their pet, but it has to meet some “parameters.” Their pet must: 1. Fit in aquarium. 2. Cost less than $50. 3. Be easily portable. 4. Be able to be left alone for the weekend. Frankie thinks that a rat—just like the rats in her beloved Aunt Gina’s lab—would be the perfect fit. But her best friend, Maya, doesn’t think a rat would be great at all. They are kind of gross and not as cool as a hermit crab, which is Maya’s top choice. Using her special workshop, can Frankie find a way to convince her teacher and her best friend that Team Rat is the way to go?

Muggie Maggie

At first, Maggie is just being contrary when she tells her parents she doesn’t need to learn cursive. Then her teacher, Mrs. Leeper, says Maggie’s cursive is so untidy that when she writes her name it looks like “Muggie,” which makes her whole class erupt in laughter. Now Maggie  really  wants nothing to do with those wiggly, squiggly, roller-coaster letters! But when Mrs. Leeper appoints Maggie class mail messenger, the notes Maggie must carry are all in cursive. Though she’s unable to read them, she suspects that some of them are about her. But the only way to know for sure is to learn cursive . . . and Maggie can’t go back on her word, can she? Newbery Medal-winning author Beverly Cleary has once again created an irrepressible heroine in a book filled with the perceptive humor that has earned her generations of fans.

Two Friends, One Dog, and a Very Unusual Week

It’s a pair of silver sequined sneakers that unexpectedly flips Emily’s comfortable, predictable world upside down. Or, more precisely, it’s the girl wearing them. The shoes belong to Rani, who moves into Emily’s apartment building—and her life—with absolutely no one but her dog Otto. (Her research scientist mother is away in Patagonia.) And that’s only the first rule that Emily watches Rani break without hesitation. But it’s not just that Rani breaks rules. Most of the time, she doesn’t seem to know the rules exist. Why can’t she bungee jump off their building? Or bring an ice cream truck to school? For steady and orderly Emily, Rani’s approach to life feels impossible . . . and more than a little irresistible. But is there a place for her in Rani’s world? And should she find a way to make space for Rani in her own?

Nina Soni, Former Best Friend

Nina tried as hard as she could but still somehow forgot about her school project. Fortunately, a class lesson about Alexander Fleming suggests how she might make a great discovery—and thus a great project! But with little sister Kavita’s birthday party right around the corner, and her longtime friendship with Jay on the rocks, Nina has a lot to keep track of. Middle grade readers are sure to relate to Nina Soni and her entertaining efforts to manage her life with lists, definitions, and real-life math problems. Perfect for STEAM enthusiasts.

The Amazing Life of Azaleah Lane

Azaleah can’t wait for her class field trip to the National Zoo in Washington D.C., especially when her teacher announces the chance to earn extra credit. But when Azaleah gets home, she quickly realizes extra credit isn’t as easy as she thought. Azaleah’s younger sister Tiana can’t find Greenie, her stuffed animal, and she’s sure he’s been stolen. With Mama at the restaurant and Daddy at work on a big case, it seems Azaleah is the only one available to track down the stolen stuffie. Can Azaleah get to the bottom of the mystery in time to finish her extra credit?

Fenway and Hattie

Fenway is an excitable and endlessly energetic Jack Russell terrier. He lives in the city with Food Lady, Fetch Man, and–of course–his beloved short human and best-friend-in-the-world, Hattie.  But when his family moves to the suburbs, Fenway faces a world of changes. He’s pretty pleased with the huge Dog Park behind his new home, but he’s  not  so happy about the Evil Squirrels that taunt him from the trees, the super-slippery Wicked Floor in the Eating Room, and the changes that have come over Hattie lately. Rather than playing with Fenway, she seems more interested in her new short human friend, Angel, and learning to play baseball. His friends in the Dog Park next door say Hattie is outgrowing him, but that can’t be right. And he’s going to prove it!

Lunch Lady and the Cyborg Substitute

Serving justice . . . and lunch! Hector, Terrence, and Dee have always wondered about their school lunch lady. What does she do when she isn’t dishing out the daily special? Where does she live? Does she have a lot of cats at home? Little do they know, Lunch Lady doesn’t just serve sloppy joes—she serves justice! Whatever danger lies ahead, it’s no match for LUNCH LADY!

Cilla Lee Jenkins 1

Priscilla “Cilla” Lee-Jenkins is on a tight deadline. Her baby sister is about to be born, and Cilla needs to become a bestselling author before her family forgets all about her. So she writes about what she knows best―herself! Stories from her bestselling memoir,  Cilla Lee-Jenkins: Future Author Extraordinaire,  include: – How she dealt with being bald until she was five – How she overcame her struggles with reading – How family traditions with her Grandma and Grandpa Jenkins and her Chinese grandparents, Nai Nai and Ye Ye, are so different Debut author Susan Tan has written a novel bursting with love and humor, as told through a bright, irresistible biracial protagonist who will win your heart and make you laugh.

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

Alvin, an Asian American second grader, is afraid of  everything —elevators, tunnels, girls, and, most of all, school. He’s so afraid of school that, while he’ s there, he never,  ever,  says a word. But at home he’s a very loud superhero named Firecracker Man, a brother to Calvin and Anibelly, and a gentleman-in-training, so he can be just like his dad.

A to Z Animal Mysteries #1: The Absent Alpacas

Solve Animal Mysteries from A to Z! Young clue hunters Abbi, Daniel, and Lydia sniff out the mystery behind a group of missing alpacas. Inspired by Ron Roy’s beloved A to Z Mysteries series, this spin-off is perfect for budding young chapter-book readers–and future detectives! A is for ALPACAS . . . It’s time for the alpaca costume contest, and Abigail “Abbi” Wallace is excited to see it at the Maine State Fair. But there’s only one alpaca left—the rest are missing! What sent the alpacas packing? Abbi; her dog, Barkley; and her friends Lydia and Daniel are ready to sniff out this mystery!

The Newest Princess (1) (Itty Bitty Princess Kitty)

Something exciting is happening in Lollyland. Itty Bitty Kitty’s eighth shooting star is about to arrive and that means she’s going to become a princess! Itty’s excited, but when she learns about all the things that are going to change, she’s also nervous. Between trying out new hairstyles and hearing that she can’t attend her regular school anymore, Itty begins to feel like she might not be cut out for this princess gig.  Will  Itty Bitty Kitty become Itty Bitty Princess Kitty after all?

It’s Me. (Catwad #1)

From  New York Times  bestselling author Jim Benton, meet Catwad! He’s blue, he’s a bit of a grouch, and his best friend is a dim-witted cat named Blurmp who can see the bright side of anything. From pizza and computers, to love and happiness, this crabby tabby has a funny take on just about everything, and he’s not afraid to share it. This collection of short comic stories will make even the grumpiest of grouches crack up and is not to be missed!

Ruby Lu, Brave and True

Most days the best thing about being Ruby is everything. Like when she’s the star of her own backyard magic show. Or when she gives a talk at the school safety assembly on the benefits of reflective tape. Or when she rides the No. 3 bus all the way to Chinatown to visit GungGung and PohPoh. And then there are the days when it’s very hard to be Ruby. Like when her mom suggests Chinese school on Saturdays. Or when her little brother, Oscar, spills all of Ruby’s best magician secrets. Or when her parents don’t think she’s old enough to drive! Join Ruby Lu on her first adventure and discover your own best things about her!

Anna Banana and the Friendship Split

Anna has been best friends with Sadie for as long as she can remember. So Anna is utterly perplexed when, on Anna’s birthday, Sadie unceremoniously stakes claim to Anna’s new pony necklace, then suddenly stops speaking to Anna altogether. Did Anna do something wrong? With a little help from her wiener dog, Banana, as well as some sage advice from her family, Anna makes some important discoveries about what it means to stand up for herself, and how to be a true friend.

Friends Fur-ever (Must Love Pets #1)

A new, young middle grade series that combines the heart and friendship of the Baby-sitters Club, with the irresistible appeal of adorable animals! Pet-sitters for hire! Imaan Bashir loves dogs, but she doesn’t have one. Yet. If only there were a surefire way to demonstrate her special canine connection to her mom. Then she’d be well on her way to pampering a pup of her very own. When one of Imaan’s neighbors needs a last minute pet-sitter for her dog, Sir Teddy, a great idea is hatched. Imaan and her friends London and Olivia will step in as pet-sitters! Imaan’s mom will be so blown away by Imaan’s amazing animal abilities that she will beg her to adopt her own dog. Or something like that. . . But the reality of pet-sitting is a little more complicated—Imaan soon discovers that Sir Teddy is a real paw-full!

The Secret Explorers and the Lost Whales

Meet The Secret Explorers! This group of brilliant kids comes together from all four corners of the globe to fix problems, solve mysteries, and gather knowledge all over the planet – and beyond. Whenever their help is needed, a special sign will appear on a door. They step through to the Exploration Station and receive their mission… In The Lost Whales, marine life expert Connor needs to use his underwater expertise to help save a pod of humpback whales that have lost their way. Along with space expert Roshni, he sets out in a submarine to search for a way to steer the whales back on track, but encounters unexpected problems along the way, including lost baby whales and a fleet of boats. Will The Secret Explorers manage to succeed in their mission? Packed with fun illustrations and facts about humpback whales, marine life, and how climate change is affecting the oceans, this thrilling adventure is perfect for emerging readers. The action-packed narrative keeps kids engaged and makes learning about the natural world fun.

Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business

Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business  is the first book in the Mindy Kim series. 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. On top of that, Mindy’s mom died shortly before their move and her dad is adjusting to being a single parent. Like any normal child, Mindy wants to be liked at her new school. She’s fortunate to meet a new friend on her first day, even though the kids complain about the way her Korean lunch smells. 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.

Peach and Plum: Here We Come!

Here they come! It’s Peach and Plum!  Welcome to Fruitdale! School is out and work is done. Now it’s time for summer fun. Peach and Plum have lots to do. Beach day, bikes, and basketball, too. Will they wind up stuck indoors with a pesky list of chores? True adventure never ends for this pair of sweet best friends. Ripe with humor and bursting with rhyme, these five short stories and four mini-comics will have newly independent readers wriggling, giggling, and going bananas for Peach and Plum.

Sideways Stories from Wayside School

Accidentally built sideways and standing thirty stories high (the builder said he was very sorry for the mistake), Wayside School has some of the wackiest classes in town, especially on the thirtieth floor. That’s where you’ll meet Bebe, the fastest draw in art class; John, who only reads upside down; Myron, the best class president ever; and Sammy, the new kid—he’s a real rat.

Izzy Barr, Running Star (Franklin School Friends Book 3)

Izzy Barr is the star athlete of the third grade: she hits homeruns on her softball team and is one of the fastest runners in her class. But at home, her half-brother, Dustin, seems to be her father’s favorite athlete―why else would her dad go to all of his games and miss so many of hers? Izzy pretends that she doesn’t care, but as she, her friends Annika Riz and Kelsey Green, and the rest of their class are gearing up for class field day, she can’t help but hope her dad will be there to cheer her on in the big race against her rival, Skipper Tipton. Dad doesn’t make it to field day, but when he realizes how important it is to Izzy, he and all of her friends and family are there to watch her participate in the citywide 10K run.

Cat Kid Comic Club

Naomi, Melvin, Pedro, and Poppy are just a few of the twenty-one rambunctious, funny, and talented baby frogs who share their stories in the Cat Kid Comic Club. Can Li’l Petey, Molly, and Flippy help the students express themselves through comics? The adventures in class and on paper unwind with mishaps and hilarity as the creative baby frogs experience the mistakes and progress that come with practice and persistence.

“Squid Kid and Katydid,” “Baby Frog Squad,” “Monster Cheese Sandwich,” “Birds Flowers Trees: A Haiku Photo Comic,” and other mini-comics are featured as stories-within-the-story, each done in a different style, utilizing humor and drama, prose and poetry, illustrated in different media including acrylics, pastels, colored pencils, felt-tip markers, clay, hand-made cardboard sculptures, photographs, pipe cleaners, construction paper collages, and cookies.

The Miniature World of Marvin & James (The Masterpiece Adventures, 1)

In this Masterpiece Adventure, the first in a companion series for younger readers from bestselling author Elise Broach, James is going on vacation for a week. His best friend, Marvin the beetle, has to stay at home. Without James to keep him company, Marvin has to play with his annoying cousin, Elaine. Marvin and Elaine quickly find themselves getting into all sorts of trouble―even getting trapped inside a pencil sharpener! Marvin misses James and starts to worry about their friendship. Will James still be Marvin’s friend when he gets home or will James have found a new best friend?

The One and Only Ivan

Having spent twenty-seven years behind the glass walls of his enclosure in a shopping mall, Ivan has grown accustomed to humans watching him. He hardly ever thinks about his life in the jungle. Instead, Ivan occupies himself with television, his friends Stella and Bob, and painting. But when he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from the wild, he is forced to see their home, and his art, through new eyes.

Flipping Forward Twisting Backward 

When she’s twisting backward and flipping forward on the balance beam, Claire feels on top of the world. As the best gymnast on her school team, it’s always a good time for her. Unfortunately, reading isn’t quite as easy. The words swirl and shuffle, and she can never seem to recognize them. When her principal wants to evaluate her for dyslexia, Claire’s mom refuses, protesting against wanting her child to be labeled. But how can Claire get help if she isn’t diagnosed as dyslexic?

The Mouse and the Motorcycle

In this imaginative adventure from Newbery Medal–winning author Beverly Cleary, a young mouse named Ralph is thrown into a world of excitement when a boy and his shiny toy motorcycle check in to the Mountain View Inn.

When the ever-curious Ralph spots Keith’s red toy motorcycle, he vows to ride it. So when Keith leaves the bike unattended in his room one day, Ralph makes his move. But with all this freedom (and speed!) come a lot of obstacles. Whether dodging a rowdy terrier or keeping his nosy cousins away from his new wheels, Ralph has a lot going on! And with a pal like Keith always looking out for him, there’s nothing this little mouse can’t handle.

Tally Tuttle Turns into a Turtle (Class Critters #1)

It’s Tally Tuttle’s first day of second grade, and she’s so nervous that she feels like she ate butterflies for breakfast! On top of moving to a new town and new school where she doesn’t know anyone, everyone starts teasing her when her full name, Tallulah, is revealed during roll call. She just wishes she could retreat into a shell . . . Then, all of a sudden, the desks and her classmates around her seem enormous, and Tally is shell-shocked to discover that she’s actually turned into a turtle!

She’d heard that Mrs. Norrell’s class was special, but she hadn’t expected this. Tally likes having a shell to hide in, but there are other parts of turtle life–like the fear of being stepped on–that aren’t exactly ideal. And once she’s tired of hiding, how can she change back into a girl? Tally will have to forge her own transformation back to herself and come out of her shell–both literally and figuratively!

The Chocolate Touch

Can you ever have too much of your favorite food? John Midas is about to find out…. The Chocolate Touch  has remained a favorite for millions of kids, teachers, and parents for several generations. It’s an enjoyable story that pulls in even reluctant readers.

Emmett and Jez (Adventures in Fosterland) 

When a tiny piglet named Emmett bounces off the truck carrying his mother and siblings, he’s lost, hungry, and stuck on the side of the road. He has no idea where he’s supposed to go, or where he belongs. Then a giant scoops Emmett up and takes him to a wonderful, magical place called Fosterland, where he meets a kitten named Jez. Emmett has a lot of questions, and once he hears all about life as a kitten, he decides it’s much better than being a piglet. So, Emmett decides to just become a kitten instead! Problem solved. But as both Jez and Emmett grow older and realize they might be headed off to different forever homes, Emmett will have to confront his fears and face the scariest question of all: Is there a Foreverland out there for him?

Ivy & Bean (Book 1)

The moment they saw each other, Bean and Ivy knew they wouldn’t be friends. But when Bean plays a joke on her sister, Nancy, and has to quickly hide and Ivy comes to the rescue, proving that sometimes the best of friends are people never meant to like each other. Vibrant characters and lots of humor make this a charming and addictive introduction to the  Ivy and Bean  Book Series.

Clementine (Series)

Clementine is NOT having a good week. On Monday she’s sent to the principal’s office for cutting off Margaret’s hair. On Tuesday, Margaret’s mother is mad at her. On Wednesday, she’s sent to the principal, again. On Thursday, Margaret stops speaking to her. Then Friday starts with yucky eggs and only gets worse. And by Saturday, even her mother is mad at her. Okay, fine. Clementine is having a DISASTROUS week. But maybe she can find a way to make it better.

Super Dweeb and the Pencil of Destiny

Andy wishes that he had * awesome powers* , like the heroes of his home-made comic stories. But instead, he’s stuck in the real world, where he has an  annoying  little brother, a  super-weird  teacher … and everyone says he’s a total  dweeb . Then one day, he discovers an  oversized, glowing pencil  on a school trip to the local toxic waste dump. He starts sketching and finds that he can redraw reality. Now, thanks to the power of doodling, Andy can bring to life anything that he can imagine, erase his problems, and doodle his way of sticky situations. He’s not just a dweeb … he’s a  SUPER DWEEB ! Even Mona, the ice-cool new girl at school, seems impressed. But there’s a twist in the tale.. because everything goes very wrong when little brother Oscar does some doodling of his own. Now there’s a  scribble monster  on the loose! Run for it, Andy!

There they are: 80 of the best chapter books for third graders! You can find even more chapter books on this list , here , and here . It’s important to note that chapter books do not replace picture books, even for older kids, so please feel free to keep those in your library.

How do you feel about chapter books? Which of these chapter books for 3rd graders have you read and loved? Any more recommendations? Please share!

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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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40 Best Chapter Books for Third Graders

How vast you can open your creativity and imaginative skills? Is it more than that of a third grader? We guess not! Third graders are discovering a whole new world of chapter novels as their reading skills improve. Don’t you think of providing a book for 3rd graders?

They may discover interesting characters, compelling storylines, and new words while developing their reading abilities by reading chapter books, which are an excellent bridge between picture books and novels.

This list includes the best chapter books for third graders that have been carefully chosen. This literary journey has something for everyone, whether you like exotic language packed with mystical creatures, thrilling puzzles that need quick thinking, poignant stories of bravery and friendship, or humorous antics that will have you laughing out loud. In addition to offering amusement, these chapter books encourage creativity, teach vital life lessons, and foster a lifetime love of reading.

Prepare yourself to experience extraordinary adventures, meet new people, and delve into the realms of your imagination.

Best Chapter Books for 3rd Graders

1. pages and co series.

Tilly Pages have an enviable talent: she is a book wanderer, which allows her to journey inside whatever novel she desires. Tilly finds her ability at Pages & Co. after encouraging literary figures, such as Anne of Green Gables, whose book wandered out of their tales and into Tilly’s. Tilly, with the assistance named Oskar, solves a variety of literary riddles, beginning with the disappearance of her mother.

2. Cat Kid Comic Club

A humorous book about inspiring children to create their comics! Cat teaches the tadpoles how to create comic books. This idea does not go well until thus tadpoles become enthused about failing, resulting in a lot of writing and painting.

3. Unicorn Rescue Society

The Unicorn Rescue Society is a must-read for third graders who can’t get enough of legendary animals. Eliot Eisner, the new kid at school, and thrill-seeker Uchenna Devereaux are recruited to join an ultra-secret organization that has been safeguarding mythological animals and keeping them hidden for decades. Their travels take them throughout the world and up close and personal with exotic species; the accompanying visuals are an ideal bridge for newly independent readers.

4. Dragons in a Bag

When Jax’s mother leaves him with an irascible old lady named Ma, he discovers that she assists magical animals, such as three young dragons, in traveling between realms. In the aftermath of a mistake made by Jax, Ma must be rescued from the past, and the dragons transported to a mystical place. His best friend’s younger sister kidnapped his best friend’s dragon, which he must locate, as well as the transporter.

5. Stella Diaz Series

The vivacious Stella Diaz will enchant readers. The series addresses current, complicated issues in an entertaining tale based on author Angela Dominiquez’s personal experience as an immigrant in the United States. These chapter novels for third graders are ideal for your school library since they include subjects such as divorce and bullying, as well as trying to learn English.

6. Stars Wars Jedi Academy

Attention all Star Wars enthusiasts! ‘Rowan’ is a young kid with a dream of becoming a pilot in this realistic graphic novel adventure. Ultimately, he chooses to train as a Jedi. He is the most senior new student; everyone else started far earlier. Rowan goes through the ups and downs that come with starting a new school, but he finds his place and new friends.

7. Two-Headed Chicken

Hilarious!! This will be your next favorite book to read if you enjoy an absurd and unusual comedy. This is a hilarious tale about the multiverse in which you are a two-headed chicken being pursued by a moose. Take humorous quizzes, meet a fish with profound emotions as well as a lawyer, and learn about a ton more as you follow the two-headed chicken across the universe.

8. Dominguita Series

Meet Dominguita, a bookish Cuban American who wants to show up a bully that ladies, two, can be nights. The creative narrative, inspired by Dom Quixote, features realistic people that assist Dom on her journey. She is a character that readers will want to get to know since she is quiet, determined, and fearless.

This well-known graphic novel series follows two boys as they try to save their mother, who has been kidnapped and taken to an underground world populated by elves, demons, robots, and talking animals. Beautiful artwork, intriguing directors, and a thrilling story make this a tremendous hit with young readers.

10. I Survived

They are fantastic, quick adventures with backgrounds of historical events. It will help your children to enjoy exertion with lessons of history. The stories are always about a young kid attempting to survive historical events such as Pompei, Titanic, Pearl Harbor, or the Battle of Gettysburg.

11. The Wild Robot

There’s a reason why these one-of-a-kind chapter novels for 3rd graders are so popular. The story follows Ross, a robot that is attempting to live on a remote island while being threatened by weather and frightening creatures. She must learn to adapt to her new environment to live.

12. Unicorn Academy

Students and their unicorns get to know one another as they embark on magical adventures in this beautiful endearing series. These enjoyable chapter novels for 3rd graders have much fantasy and creativity while still highlighting the practical aspects of friendship.

13. Planet Omar

Omar’s enormous imagination is one of his finest qualities. His imagination is filled with dragons, Ferraris, and zombie aliens as he approaches new experiences in life. To deal with things like relocating, beginning a new school, establishing friends, and overcoming racism, he utilizes his imagination.

14. Cam Jansen Series

The series has been a hit for more than 30 years for a reason, and with over 30 volumes in the collection, the readers will be kept occupied for quite some time. You may compare Cam Jensen to Nancy Drew in that she can solve any mystery if she sets her mind to do it, especially with the help of her closest buddy Eric.

15. Marya Khan

Another best-selling series for more advanced readers was written by Yasmin series author Satya Faruki, who wrote the novels that made our list of the best chapter books for third grade. The touching and relevant tale of Maria and her loving Pakistani American family is rife with friendship and everyday difficulties that any young person could experience.

16. Sideway Stories from Wayside School

Louis’s’ series about a school that was unintentionally erected horizontally and 30 floors high is hilarious and bizarre. Although it may be absurd, the practical aspects of school life keep it genuine and timely. These distinct chapter novels for 3rd graders are must-reads!

17. The Fantastic Frame Stories

The series is so much fun because it combines thrilling adventure with art history. Tiger Brooks, 10, and his neighbor Luna must physically delve into well-known works of art, including works by Georgia O’Keeffe and Georges Seward, to find a missing individual.

18. Maya and The Robot

Maya will be starting 5th grade. When she is put in a separate class then her two closest friends, Jada and MJ, she is upset. Maya’s new best buddy appears after setting the robot up for use, but how long will this last? What occurs when Ralph, the robot, experiences a problem?

19. Lola Levine is Not Mean

Lola Levine enjoys journaling, eating her dad’s matzo ball soup, drinking her momma’s coffee con leche, and playing soccer with her team, the orange smoothies. Young readers will be motivated by Lola’s enormous heart and inventive personality as she learns to navigate the second grade in this first book of the series.

20. Clean Getaway

Scoob had not anticipated a spring break like this. He certainly didn’t anticipate being severely punished, but his grandma had other plans. She has since taken him on an incredible road trip, with a copy of the green book in hand, to recreate the route she and scoops grandpa previously took.

21. Stick Dog

A stick dog will make you laugh. Why is the stick dog his name? Since our writer is not a good artist. Additionally, he enjoys sticks, so. Kids will like reading this tale about wandering dogs because of the amusing cartoonish visuals.

22. A to Z Mysteries

For people who struggle to read or who prefer shorter, simpler chapters, the classic series is ideal. Readers are immediately drawn in by the morally upright adventures and mysteries, which are constantly fascinating. The students may quickly go through all 26 novels and attempt to solve each case before the characters do with so many options.

23. The Phantom Tollbooth

The magic of the phantom toll booth can be best appreciated in 3rd grade. Your imagination will be revived by Milo’s enigmatic adventure to the island of conclusions and is developing relationships with Tock, the ticking watchdog.

24. Hamster Princess: Harriet the Invincible

It can be considered a hilarious remake of Sleeping Beauty! In this redemption, the Princess discovers she won’t pass away until she is 18 and comes to the conclusion that this means she is invincible. Throughout her early school years, any toddler will adore these tales.

25. Olga and The Smelly Thing from Nowhere

This book will appeal to those who enjoy weird literature. Olga discovers a strange, unidentified creature and gives it a sound it makes as its name. She determines what something new is and what it loves to eat, which is olives, through deductive reasoning.

26. The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher

This two-book series is hilarious and heartwarming. Dad and Papa have their hands full raising four boys, each of whom has different hobbies and personality traits. These chapter novels for 3rd graders show the genuine flaws in family and school life and show how a close connection with a known person can help someone get through anything.

27. Who was…? Series

Curious readers will deliver these nonfiction books. Students may find intriguing biographies that fit their various interests by selecting from more than 200 volumes in this popular series. These renowned philosophers, heroes, and change-makers are made fascinating and relatable via interesting tales and thorough black-and-white graphics.

28. Because of Winn-Dixie

Opal has always been curious about why her mother hasn’t been home since she was three years old and why her preacher father is always too busy. A stray dog called Winn-Dixie, which Opal calls Winn-Dixie, provides the 10-year-old with purpose and hope in her life.

29. Dragonbreath

Hysterical! You can’t help but chuckle. For 8-year-olds, it is a terrific book to read. Danny Dragonbreath is a dragon that does not exhale fire but has wonderful companions that add complexity and interest to his life.

30. The Magnificent Mya Tibbs

Readers will adore Mya Tibbs since she is a vibrant and lovable character. This enduring series shows how friendships and relationships change over time as well as what it takes to act morally. It is entertaining and realistic.

31. Mercy Watson

Mercy resides in the Watson household; they give her butter toast to eat and drive her about in their convertible. Mercy decides to spend the night with Mr. and Mrs. Watson after becoming afraid one night.

32. The Bad Guys

The hilarious novel series Bad Guy is a favorite of many lads in particular. To convince others to join him in doing good, Mr. Wolf invites other villains to the conference. This is a definite thing for a beginner reader who enjoys sarcasm and comedy because there are several illustrations and little text.

33. Zita the Spacegirl

Zita novels are awesome; they are filled with fun, comedy, and amazing characters! During her quest to rescue her friend from kidnappers and save the universe, Zita accidentally becomes trapped in space.

34. Mr. Whiskers

A street-smart stray dog Mr. Whiskers has a nose for mischief and a soft spot for two females he refers to as Shenanigan sisters. Therefore, when Misty and Zelda’s professor’s father is taken hostage, Mr. Whiskers pursues that automobile, gathering crucial information.

35. Ada Lace is on The Case

Ada moves to a new neighborhood and keeps a tight eye on everything that goes on outside her window. She spots a distraught neighbor whose dog has gone missing, and she and her new friend proceed to investigate.

36. Anisa’s International Day

Anisa is anticipating International Day in her class. She plans to share her Pakistani culture with everyone by asking her mother to bring samosas for the class. But another student stakes the samosa slot before she can share her ideas.

37. World travelers and the Taj Mahal mystery

Close associates when Eddie and MJ open a book on words, India appears in front of them. Dear, they assist a child in deciphering the hints to locate his family’s stolen riches before a bad man takes them. They discover additional terms with Indian roots as they work to answer the puzzle; several are from Hindi, such as bangle and bungalow, while others are from Sanskrit, like jackal and jungle.

38. The Mouse with The Question Mark Tail

What did youngsters haven’t been enchanted by little, secret worlds? A peep squeak of a mouse that doesn’t know his name has recently joined the ranks of tiny borrowers who dwell in the walls and enchanted fairies. But that won’t stop him from traveling the Buckingham Palace to see Queen Victoria and learn his true identity.

39. The Diary of a Wimpy Kid

In his own words and illustrations, Greg tells us a funny narrative in one of the most well-known book series of all time, the diary of a wimpy kid. Middle school life is challenging. Greg is here to substantiate that. Kids will read these books several times, which is fantastic if you have them all, as one thing you will notice about them.

40. Whatever After

A common girl and her brother once unintentionally entered a fairy tale. And ruin everything. All of the novels in the series are fantastic; They are witty and amusing.

All in all, chapter books are critical to third graders’ because they encourage a love of reading, support the development of their creativity, and strengthen their language and comprehension abilities. The list of books described in this article includes a wide variety of genres, subjects, and reading levels, satisfying readers of all tastes.

Parents, educators, and caregivers may foster a lifetime love of reading and education in 3rd graders by exposing them to these engrossing chapter novels. Children may be empowered to develop into confident, informed, and empathic persons as they go on literary adventures with their favorite characters. They are encouraged to develop regular reading habits and given plenty of opportunities to discover these literary gems.

3rd graders will thus discover happiness, adventure, and valuable life lessons inside the pages of these great chapter novels, whether they are taking in a humorous style of talking animals or solving mysteries in time-traveling adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are chapter books appropriate for 3rd graders, and what are they.

Longer, more complicated stories are separated into chapters in chapter books. They are ideal for 3rd graders since, at this stage of development, kids are moving from being beginning readers to being more autonomous readers. They may hone their reading abilities and discover more complex narratives and characters by reading chapter books.

Do Chapter Books Exist that Appeal to Many Interests?

Absolutely! There are many chapter books to choose from, with topics including adventure, fantasy, mystery, humor, and more. There is a chapter book out there that will capture your child’s imagination, whether they like fantastical settings, action-packed adventures, or realistic tales.

Can Chapter Books Aid in a Child’s Reading Development?

Yes, chapter books are a great way to improve your child’s reading abilities. They promote lengthy reading, enhance understanding, and introduce kids to more complex language. They naturally increase their vocabulary influence as they read larger texts.

What Well-Known Chapter Book Series Is Suitable for 3rd Graders?

There are various chapter book series that are suitable for 3rd graders. It depends on what they like and what they love. Many readers of the third great enjoy many series because they have thrilling adventures and likable characters.

For 3rd Graders, Are There Any Diverse Chapter Novels Available?

Yes, diversity has been actively included in your children’s fiction by the publishing business. Chapter novels featuring protagonists of various ages, ethnicities, and experiences are available. These books are not only a representation but also educate young readers about many viewpoints and develop empathy.

Rachel Kim has passionately advocated children's literature for over 15 years. She holds a Master's in Early Childhood Education from the University of Washington and has worked extensively as a children's book editor. She earned her Master's in Library and Information Science from the University of Texas and has since contributed to various educational initiatives focusing on early literacy. Beyond her professional life, Rachel is an avid gardener and enjoys creating fairy tale-inspired gardens. Rachel’s hobbies include illustrating children's books and participating in community theater.

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Best Books for Third Graders

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

Amari and the Night Brothers: Supernatural Investigations, Book 1

Girl finds her magic in fun fantasy full of surprises.

Black Brother, Black Brother

Boy challenges school bully in exciting sports story.

The City of Ember

Part fantasy, part mystery, part treasure hunt.

Strange, surreal tale sure to creep kids out.

Dragons in a Bag, Book 1

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

Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures

Funny, poignant tale of cynical girl, superpowered squirrel.

From the Desk of Zoe Washington

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

Gone Crazy in Alabama

Harrowing tale of Gaither girls' summer in the South.

James and the Giant Peach

Lonely boy's magical adventure still satisfies.

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

Heartwarming story of a heroic, artistic, captive gorilla.

Simon B. Rhymin', Book 1

Fun story about boy whose creativity sparks his empathy.

Things Seen from Above

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

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

Teen connects with African folklore in exciting fantasy.

What Was? Series

Exceptional, relevant series brings history to life.

When You Trap a Tiger

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

Where Is? Series

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

Who Was? Series

Exceptional biography series teaches history, culture, too.

A Wish in the Dark

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

Anne of Green Gables

Beloved classic features lovable, imaginative heroine.

Artemis Fowl, Book 1

Witty and exciting series start with irresistible antihero.

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An enlightening text on the life of Gandhi, containing enlightening snapshots of Gandhi’s life, with lots of questions for reflection, making it very suitable for school use – social studies, history, art, or English. The Haiku, images, and text reflect the remarkable life of Mahatma (‘great soul’) who brought freedom to India through non-violent protest. …

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Sindiwe and the Fireflies – This is the story of Sindiwe Magona. Born in the village of Gungululu in rural Eastern Cape. Born on August 23 1943, But life was not easy on Sindiwe, she left school in order to work as a cleaner, but no matter difficult her situation was Sindiwe never gave up …

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Kali Wants to Dance is the biography of Kali Veerapathiran born in a fishing Village, with a talent and passion in dancing. But his family does not have enough money to spare for dance classes. And who has heard of boys dancing for a living? “Who has ever learned dance and made any money from it? It’s a …

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In What is Love – a children’s biography of Helen Keller, an excerpt from Helen Keller’s book, The Story of My Life is included, whereupon she explains beautifully the first time she learns what love is and what her life was like before her teacher arrived, thereafter the book details the biography of Helen Keller …

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Helen Keller’s Autobiography, written at age 22, and details her growing up, before and after meeting Anne Sullivan, and her years in formal education, both special needs education and afterwards when she was accepted into main stream education, with the help of Ms Sullivan’s translation. The book includes letters written by Helen from the age …

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The Story of Simone Biles: An Inspiring Biography for Young Readers (The Story of Biographies) Paperback – September 29, 2020

Purchase options and add-ons.

• Independent reading —This Simone Biles biography is broken down into short chapters and simple language so kids 6 to 9 can read and learn on their own.
• Critical thinking —Kids will learn the Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How of Simone's life, find definitions of new words, discussion questions, and more.
• A lasting legacy —See how Simone's accomplishments helped open doors for female athletes across the world.
• Part of series The Story Of: A Biography Series for New Readers
• Print length 66 pages
• Language English
• Grade level 2 - 3
• Lexile measure 820L
• Dimensions 5.83 x 0.3 x 8.27 inches
• Publisher Rockridge Press
• Publication date September 29, 2020
• ISBN-10 1647397758
• ISBN-13 978-1647397753
• See all details

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About the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Rockridge Press (September 29, 2020)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 66 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1647397758
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1647397753
• Reading age ‏ : ‎ 6 - 9 years, from customers
• Lexile measure ‏ : ‎ 820L
• Grade level ‏ : ‎ 2 - 3
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.31 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.83 x 0.3 x 8.27 inches
• #3 in Children's Gymnastics Books (Books)
• #21 in Children's Sports Biographies (Books)
• #904 in Children's Activities, Crafts & Games Books (Books)

About the author

Rachelle burk.

INVITE RACHELLE TO SPEAK AT YOUR SCHOOL!

Rachelle Burk is a writer of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry for children. Her books include: TREE HOUSE IN A STORM (picture book), DON'T TURN THE PAGE! (picture book), THE TOOTH FAIRY TRAP (chapter book), MISS CRUMP'S FUNNY BONE (chapter book), THE WALKING FISH* (grades 4-7 science-adventure novel), PAINTING IN THE DARK: ESREF ARMAGAN, BLIND ARTIST (picture book biography), THE STORY OF SIMONE BILES (chapter book bio), STOMP, WIGGLE, CLAP, AND TAP: MY FIRST BOOK OF DANCE, LET'S PLAY AN INSTRUMENT: A MUSIC BOOK FOR KIDS, and WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE WORLD: A FEMINIST BOOK FOR CHILDREN 3-5 . Her work has appeared in national publications such as Highlights for Children and Scholastic Science classroom magazines.

*THE WALKING FISH was an "Outstanding Science Trade Books for K-12," award winner by the National Science Teaching Association and Children's Book Council.

SCHOOL AUTHOR VISITS: The NJ author has traveled to 17 states to share the joy of reading and writing through dynamic school visit programs. For more information, visit her website: www.rachelleburk.com

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60 Best 3rd Grade Books in a Series

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

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

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

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

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

SHOP this booklist.

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

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

ADVENTURE GRAPHIC NOVEL

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

Sparks  by Ian Boothby, illustrated by Nina Matsumoto

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

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

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

Dragon Kindom of Wrenly: The Coldfire Curse  by Jordan Quinn

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

Pizazz by Sophy Henn

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

Love Puppies: Best Friends Furever  by JaNay Brown Wood

MAGICAL REALISM

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

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

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

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

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

Bad Kitty Supercat  by Nick Bruel 

HUMOR   GRAPHIC NOVEL

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

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

Reading Journal for Kids

102 pages of fun!

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

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

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

Tally Tuttle Turns into a Turtle by Kathryn Holmes

REALISTIC ish

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

FUNNY BOOK In a word: hilarious. Kids think Bad Kitty is very naughty but, oh so funny. These books are addictive to read and fun to reread. Illustrated with minimal text on every page. Bad Kitty has an attitude. She makes life difficult for her owner, Uncle Murry, puppy, and so on and so forth. Boxed set here .

Zita the Spacegirl  by Ben Hatke

HUMOR / GRAPHIC NOVEL

The Zita books rock — they’re full of adventure, humor, and fantastic characters!! Zita is a young girl who is a courageous, problem-solving heroine who accidentally gets stuck in space while trying to save her friend from kidnappers and save the universe.

Dragonbreath  by Ursula Vernon

Hysterical! I couldn’t stop laughing! This is a fantastic chapter book series for 3rd grade kids about Danny Dragonbreath and the crazy adventures he has with his friends. Boxed Set HERE.

Ninja Kid: From Nerd to Ninja by Anh Do

Nelson is a nerdy and likable main character who wakes up on his 10th birthday with perfect vision and… ninja moves! (How cool is that?) His mum and grandma explain that, like his missing fisherman dad before him, Nelson is the LAST ninja in the world — and he’s destined to SAVE the world. Action-packed, funny, appealing illustrations, and likable characters, this book has it all. You won’t want to stop with book one either because there’s a bit of a cliffhanger…

Cat Ninja  by Matthew Cody, illustrated by Yehudi Mercado

At night, this pet turns into Cat Ninja, Metro City’s protector! His nemesis is Leon’s sister’s evil hamster, Master Hamster.  Learn the Cat Ninja’s origin story, then follow his perilous, exciting, and humorous adventures! This graphic novel will appeal to reluctant readers.

First in one of the BEST Minecraft book series published, this adventure follows five players who are transported inside the game– and it’s real! They’ll have to use all their survival and problem-solving skills to stay alive. BOXED SET of Books 1 – 4 HERE .

Ivy Lost and Found  by Cynthia Lord, illustrated by Stephanie Graegin

An old doll gets a new life as a book buddy!  Ivy’s been in the attic for years until her girl, now an adult, donates Ivy to the Book Buddy’s shelf at the library. That’s when a lonely girl named Fern borrows Ivy. Fern is visiting her dad and his new family, and she needs a friend like Ivy. Then, when Ivy gets left outside in the rain, she has a surprise adventure of her own and makes friends with two other Book Buddies. Eventually, Fern feels better about her new blended family and returns her to the library.

Who Would Win? Whale vs. Giant Squid

Teachers say that their 3rd grade students can’t get enough of the Who Would Win? books. This particular title pits two ocean carnivores against each other. First, you’ll learn facts about a sperm whale, then you’ll learn about the giant squid. Finally, read what happens when these two creatures face-off.  Can you predict who will win? See all the addicting informational books in the Who Would Win series .

Unicorn Academy: Sophia and Rainbow

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

Whatever After  by Sarah MlynowskiFANTASY / HUMOR

Once upon a time, a regular girl and her brother accidentally are transported into a fairy tale story. And mess it all up. (Whoops.) Now they have to fix the story before the ending gets changed. My kids and I love all the books in this series!

Dog Man by Dav Pinkey

GRAPHIC NOVEL / HUMOR

Weird. Quirky. Funny. I think all three describe this new graphic novel from the creator of Captain Underpants. In the first story, a police officer and a dog are joined together — the top from the dog, the bottom from the officer to make: Dog Man . Dog Man solves crimes and has adventures, the likes of which will entertain 8-year-old readers for hours.

First Cat in Space  by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Shawn Harris ( GRAPHIC NOVEL )

Absurdly hysterical, this is a bizarrely perfect adventure in space! When rats eat a slice of the moon, the world’s leaders send their secret weapon– a cat and a stowaway toenail-clipping robot.  The two adventurers travel to the moon where they meet the Queen of Moonopolis. Their journey is bizarre and hilarious. But the spaceship’s computer joins the Rat King’s evil side, and when the heroes arrive at the Rat King’s, they GET CAPTURED. Don’t worry– somehow they’ll escape. Right?

Get to Work, Hercules! (Myth-O-Mania)   by Kate McMullanHUMOR / MYTHOLOGYHades narrates the “TRUE” stories of the Greek Myths with panache and humor. Apparently, his younger brother Zeus is a big fat liar and edited all the myths to make himself look good. In this updated myth, Hades watches over his young, not-too-smart nephew, Hercules, whom Hera has it out for. Your kids are going to LOVE these books! My library can’t keep them on the shelves.

My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish  by Mo O’Hara

Hysterical and totally believable, right? Find out what happens if your goldfish dies and you bring him back to life. Only you messed it up and your goldfish becomes a zombie that can mesmerize you with his powerful eyes, making you do anything he wants. Aaaah!

HISTORICAL FICTION

Your kids will zip through these short, fast-paced adventures. The I Survived stories always are about a young person trying to survive the historically important, life-changing event such as the Titanic, Hurricane Katrina, Pearl Harbor, Nazi Invasion, and the Hindenburg crash. You’ll probably want to get a box set so your kids can immerse themselves in this excellent series.

The Haunted Library  by Dori Hillestad Butler

My 3rd-grade daughter and I loved this entertaining mystery series about a boy ghost, Kaz, who is blown away from his family and into a new haunt — a library. In this first story, he and his new friend, Claire, decide to be detectives. They want to discover the secret of the other ghost haunting the library plus find his missing family.

FRACTURED FAIRY TALE

Princess Harriet is the COOLEST heroine in this Sleeping Beauty 2.0. She’s thrilled to know she’ll fall into a deep sleep when she’s twelve because that means she can do anything crazy and dangerous without dying. In fact, she searches out danger and the results are hilariously entertaining. The other books in this fairy tale series with a twist series are just as remarkable. You’ll love the quirky humor.

Ivy and Bean   by Annie Barrows, illustrated by Sophie Blackall

HUMORGet ready to laugh along with these charming young friends who won’t stop until they find the best way to solve their perplexing troubles, no matter how many ideas they must try. A fantastic series for third graders. Boxed Set HERE .

The funny plots are about Nate’s life at home and school are totally relatable to any kid, especially boys. Some, like this one, are written in a combo of text and comics while others are straight graphic novels like Big Nate Welcome to My World . Box set here .

Siblings Maddie and Atticus can’t figure out who is dumping trash everywhere. And when they rescue a baby dolphin entangled in trash, they know they must get to the bottom of this mystery. Full-color photographs with information about dolphins, marine life, and more add in bonus  nonfiction information  for readers.

INTERACTIVE SCI-FI

These books invite YOU the reader to help solve the mysteries with your own bravery, heroism, and imaginative drawing. Yes, drawing. For example, in this story, you’ll make sure (by drawing) that you’ve got a spacesuit, you’ve packed everything you need to bring, the rocket design is perfect plus has some silly (bandages!?) extras, and lots more as the adventure ensues. It may sound contrived but it’s a fun, engaging adventure that any kid, artist or not, will love. And there is MORE in the series! Also read: The Pursuit of the Pesky Pizza Pirate! and  The Rise of Rusty-Robo-Cat! .

Trapped in a Video Game

Gamers and nongamers alike who love exciting and dangerous stories won’t want to miss this excellent series. Jesse’s friend gets an early release of a video game — and it sucks in both boys. They’re literally trapped. Inside the game, they meet a classmate who has been missing for weeks, now a grown-up man in the game. Because there’s no way out.

The Year of the Book  by Andrea Chang

Growing up is challenging and in the first novel, The Year of the Book , Anna turns to books for company while she learns how to make friendships in real life. The subsequent books in the series are just as realistic and well-written. I highly recommend them & love the diversity of the main character.

REALISTIC / STEM

Jada starts the school year hoping to find new friends, hopefully, ones that love rocks like she does. She misses her best friend but feels excited when her class studies geology. Unfortunately, one bossy girl in Jada’s group project makes fun of Jada’s interest in rocks. This is a well-written STEM story that shows the challenges of getting along with others and staying true to yourself.

Little Guides to Great Lives Nelson Mandela

This is another new biography series that I highly recommend for elementary-age readers. Written like a narrative story, these little books are fast-paced and informative. This particular title is about one of the world’s most admired activists and leaders, Nelson Mandela. Little Guides to Great Lives series  contain perfect text to picture ratio, captivating illustrations, informative content, and just-right pacing. Plus, they’re very well-written.

Franny K. Stein

HUMOR / SCI-FI

Franny is not a normal kid but a mad scientist. We love these stories that are wacky and laugh-out-loud funny sharing the many unfortunate antics of Franny.

by Herobrine Books

Short sentences with witty observations on life from the perspective of a Minecraft zombie will crack you up. These diaries are entertaining, funny reads. Nothing scary and perfect for any Minecraft enthusiasts. 

Two-Headed Chicken  by Tom Angleberger 

Hilarious!!  If you like wacky, bizarre humor, then this is your next favorite read.  This is a story about the multiverse in which you are a two-headed chicken being chased by a moose…and it’s probably one of the top five funniest books I’ve ever read. (And I’ve read a lot of books.) Add in funny quizzes, a fish with deep feelings, and lawyers…Needless to say, I laughed out loud throughout this funny book, perfect for kids in  2nd ,  3rd , or  4th grade .

SCI-FI / HUMOR

Engaging from the first page, this is a relatable (and funny) graphic novel adventure story about a young boy, Roan, who dreams of becoming a pilot . . . but gets into Jedi school instead. He’s the oldest new student because the other kids started long before he did. Roan has ups and downs, as one does at a new school, but finds his place at the school with new friends.

MYSTERY / STEM

Ada moves to a new neighborhood where she observes everything that happens out her window. She and a new friend notice a distraught neighbor whose dog is missing and they determine to solve the mystery.  Along with another neighbor boy, they use science and technology to solve the mystery of the missing dog.

Bad Guys  is a hysterical book and a favorite series for many boys especially.  Mr. Wolf invites other bad guys to a meeting in hopes they will join him in being good. Lots of drawings and minimal text make this a sure bet for beginning readers who like irony and humor. ( Note: If you don’t like potty humor, this is not the book for you. I will admit, after a few books, I was DONE with it. )

Sideways Stories from Wayside School

Old school humor at its best! These goofy books describe a wacky school with crazy teachers and even crazier events. Be ready to laugh.

Mrs. Frogbottom’s Field Trips I Want My Mummy by Nancy Krulik

Welcome to 4th grade with a teacher who isn’t like any other teachers…mostly because of her magic map that transports the entire class all over the world. In this story, Mrs. Frogbottom takes the class to Egypt — and our narrator, Tony, does not like it one bit, not the black cat following them, not that his friend Sofia disappears and not that Aiden wanders into a tomb where the friends get trapped! Camels, too much sand, pyramids, tombs, and an actual mummy make this terrified student very glad to go back home. This educational adventure series is off to a great start. Next stop, Scotland. 

Lunch Lady and the Cyborg Substitute  

If you haven’t read these addictive and hilarious graphic novels, they are a must for anyone who has eaten lunch at school. BOX SET

Jasmine Toguchi Mochi Queen by Debbi Michiko Florence, illustrated by Eliazbet Vukovic

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

The Story of Olympic Swimmer Duke Kahanamoku

Kids will love learning about cool but lesser-known people like Duke, a famous Hawaiian who is known for his dominance of the sport of surfing as well as being an Olympic swimmer. Helpful informational insets give readers background on topics covered in the biography such as how surfboards are made. Love it.

Amelia Bedelia Unleashed

I’ve been enjoying these updated Amelia chapter books by the original author’s son. In this story, Amelia searches for the perfect puppy in her charming, Amelia Bedelia way.

Fancy Nancy: Nancy Clancy, Secret Admirer  

Another enjoyable book in the Nancy Clancy series. In this book, Nancy and her best friend, Bree, decide to play matchmaker for Nancy’s babysitter, Annie, and her guitar teacher, Andy. Funny and fun!  BOX SET

If you like non-stop action, potty humor, space adventures, zombie aliens, mutant worm wrestling, a misunderstood evil princess, good friends, video games, and a diabolical, hunting-them-down evil queen, then this series is for you. Plus, it has loads of cartoon illustrations throughout and hilarious writing with a kazillion exclamation marks!!!! (If you like this, you’ll want to read book 2,  The Weiner Strikes Back. )

Written in letters, drawings, newspaper articles, and other unique texts, accompanied by illustrations, you’ll find this is a mesmerizing series about an old man named Ignatius B. Grumply and the ghosts that live in his home. Surprisingly not scary and quite punny, this was a favorite series for my 3rd grader.

If you like kooky books, this book fits the bill. Olga finds an unusual, unknown creature whom she names “MEH” after the sound that it makes. She uses her deductive reasoning to figure out what it is (something new!) and what it likes to eat (olives)! But what will she do when Meh disappears? Here’s what I love about this book… One, the illustrations rock! Two, the narrator’s voice is believable and funny. Three, the plot includes mean girls who aren’t so mean after all.

Kristy’s Great Idea Babysitter’s Club #1

REALISTIC / GRAPHIC NOVEL

We’re loving these updated Babysitter’s Club graphic novels by the uber-talented Raina Telegemeier who wrote the highly-acclaimed  Smile  and  Sister . I recommend starting with book one since the stories are told in a specific order with details from previous stories. These are funny and fun to read, maybe even more than once. BOX SET HERE.

Nick and Tesla’s High-Voltage Danger Lab

MYSTERY/ STEM

Siblings Nick and Tesla are shipped off to live with their mad-scientist Uncle Newt for the summer while their parents are . . . doing something with soybeans in Uzbekistan. When left to fend for themselves, they discover something very suspicious happening at the old mansion down the street, more than just losing their rocket in that yard. If you like science, technology, and adventure, this is the series for you. (Also read: STEAM and STEM Chapter Books for Kids )

ENTREPRENEUR

A warm-hearted, sweet story about a Latinx girl who’s an entrepreneur and devoted daughter and granddaughter. When her grandpa (tata) tells Sarai Gonzalez that his rental house is being sold, she determines to help by selling more cupcakes than ever. Even her sisters join in to help and so do her cousins. A darling start to a new series inspired by Sarai’s own life!

Hank’s brain freezes up when he talks to people  — and also when he tries out for his class play. That’s why he gets the bookmark role. But, when the lead actor flubs his lines, Hank jumps in to save the play from disaster. I love Hank’s relatable character to whom learning doesn’t come easily

Stick Dog is hilarious. Why is he called Stick Dog? Because our author/narrator can’t draw. And also, because he likes sticks. The funny cartoonish illustrations make this story of stray dogs easy to read and very entertaining series for kids.

3rd grader Beatrice is a divergent problem solver. So when her best friend Lenny comes back from camp a changed girl and seems to have a new best friend that is NOT Beatrice, Beatrice decides to get her friend back. Kids will be cheering Beatrice on as she tried to figure out how to reconnect with her former best friend. Cute!

If you like mythical creatures, independent thinkers, and mysteries, you’ll love this first book in the Pip Bartlett series as much as me. Pip’s world is just like ours except for one significant difference —  magical creatures exist and often are pets!

Judy Moody Was in a Mood

Want to get your kids reading a great series? Try Judy Moody. She’s a relatable third grader with a big personality, an annoying little brother, and humorous antics.

Secrets of the Manor:  Claire’s Story, 1910  by Adele Whitby

HISTORICAL MYSTERY

This is a captivating story about an orphan girl who moves to France to live with friends of her family. She befriends a servant girl and the duo realizes there are mysteries that must be answered — like what happened to the daughter of the manor and why did her parents send her to this family. An excellent first book in a new series for 3rd graders.

You Might Also Like:

Best Read Aloud Books for 3rd Grade

All book recommendations for 8-year olds

Nonfiction Book Recommendations for 3rd G raders

Best Boxed Book Sets for Kids

Card Games for Kids

Funny Books

The post 60 Best 3rd Grade Books in a Series appeared first on Imagination Soup .

70 Must-Read Books for 3rd Graders

Aimee Miles

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

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

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

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

Graphic Novels For 3rd Graders

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

Cucumber Quest by Gigi D.G.

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

The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier

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

Princess Princess Ever After by Katie O’Neill

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

The Dragonet Prophecy by Tui T. Sutherland

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

Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi

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

Phoebe and Her Unicorn by Dana Simpson

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

Princeless: Save Yourself by Jeremy Whitley

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

Real Friends by Shannon Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

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

Zita, Space Girl by Ben Hatke

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

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier

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

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

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

Mighty Jack by Ben Hatke

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

Secret Coders by Gene Luen Yang

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

Starting Chapter Books For 3rd Graders

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

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

Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa by Erica Silverman

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

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

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

The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale

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

Mercy Watson by Kate DiCamillo

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

Mermaid Tales by Debbie Dadey

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

Saving the Team: The Kicks by Alex Morgan

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

Geronimo Stilton and Thea Stilton

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

Myth-o-mania by Kate McMullan

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

A-Z Mysteries by Ron Roy

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

Lola Levine Is Not Mean by Monica Brown

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

My Weird School by Dan Gutman

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

The Chicken Squad by Doreen Cronin

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

Eerie Elementary / The Dragon Masters / Owl Diaries

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

Anna Hibiscus by Atinuke

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

No. 1 Car Spotter by Atinuke

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

Zoey and Sassafras by Asia Citro

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

Ruby Lu: Brave and True by Lenore Look

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

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

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

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

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

EllRay Jakes is Not A Chicken by Sally Warner

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

Bookmarks Are People Too by Henry Winkler

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

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

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

The Kingdom of Wrenly: The Lost Stone by Jordan Quinn

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

Calvin Coconut: Trouble Magnet by Graham Salisbury

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

Nikki and Deja by Karen English

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

Longer Chapterbooks For 3rd Graders

Crenshaw by katherine applegate.

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

One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

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

In the Footsteps of Crazy Horse by Joseph Marshall III

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

Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu

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

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

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

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

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

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster

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

Ivy and Bean by Annie Barrows

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

Forest of Wonders by Linda Sue Park

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

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

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

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

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

Spirit Week: The Magnificent Mya Tibbs  by Crystal Allen

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

Dara Palmer’s Major Drama by Emma Shevah

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

One Crazy Summer by Rita Garcia Williams

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

Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

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

Stella By Starlight by Sharon M. Draper

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

Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai

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

The Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste

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

It Ain’t So Awful Falafel by Firoozeh Dumas

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

The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy

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

Ghost by Jason Reynolds

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

As Brave As You Are by Jason Reynolds

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

Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey

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

Melissa by Alex Gino

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

Star-Crossed by Barbara Dee

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

Harriet the Invincible by Ursula Vernon

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

Dragonbreath by Ursula Vernon

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

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume

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

President of the Whole Fifth Grade by Sherri Winston

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

Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi

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

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

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

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

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

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Here's a guess: Your classroom is full of sports fans, with students who play soccer, basketball, baseball, or other sports after school and on weekends — or those who watch games live or on television with their family.

Filling your classroom library with books that reflect students' interests is a fantastic way to get kids excited about reading. These must-have sports stories showcase impressive real-life athletes, such as  Misty Copeland ,  Roberto Clemente , and  LeBron James . You'll also find delightful fiction, often offering a window into history as well as the values of teamwork and perseverance that accompany sports.   

Young fans will see the challenges and the triumphs that they love so much about the world of sports reflected in these stories. These titles are a great choice for sports lovers, the perfect motivation for striving readers, and a great way to introduce the world of sports to your classroom.

Shop books about sports below! You can find all books and activities at  The Teacher Store .

21 Best Nonfiction Books for 3rd Graders (8 Year-Olds)

With a third-grader at home, I am always on the hunt for a good variety of nonfiction books for her. The nonfiction choice for 8 year-olds is plenty – animals, science, history, biographies, and more. The text is simple with bright illustrations. Perfect for a read-aloud or independent reading time.

21 Best Nonfiction Books for 3rd Graders (8 Years-Old)

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Here are the 21 Best Nonfiction books to keep your 3rd graders glued to reading.

You can find them in your local library or nearby bookstores. If they are unavailable locally, you can click on the links or images below to purchase from Amazon.

Table of contents

Nonfiction Books – Animals

Fake Out!: Animals That Play Tricks

Your child would learn about bizarre animal behaviors from this picture book. Read about the mimic octopus that can change its shape, skin color, and texture to match its surroundings. Or how about a type of goat that faints whenever it feels threatened! The book is in short chapter-book format for early readers.

Animal Architects

How do spiders weave such intricate webs? Why do beavers build dams? Read about all the fascinating engineers and architects of the animal world in a nonfiction narrative. Birds, insects, mammals – every category of creatures are covered. The information is accompanied by bright real pictures.

Wild Animals of the North

From the polar bears of the north to pandas, this book takes the children along in the discovery of animals in the northern hemisphere covering each of three sections – Asia, Europe, North America. A good informational book for children in 3rd grade and above. The illustrations are big and beautiful, making this 141-page book a visual delight.

Prehistoric Mammals

This informational nonfiction book has popular and lesser-known prehistoric mammals that once occupied the earth. Starting with dinosaurs, to woolly mammoths, saber-toothed cats – this book has all covered. The writing is engaging, accompanied by brilliant illustrations.

Animals: A Visual Encyclopedia

Want to know how animals are related to humans? This fun nonfiction book has a page for this! It has all types of animals and insets covered. Including what they eat, their habitat, how ferocious or friendly they are. With bright sharp pictures and snippets of helpful information about each animal, this book is a good nonfiction read.

Nonfiction Books – Biographies & History

I am Walt Disney

The person in this biography needs no introduction. Walt Disney changed the world for kids. This short nonfiction chapter book is a peek into what went behind the great mind and the innovation.

Young Gifted and Black

This book is the celebration of 52 black icons from the past and present. The stories are empowering and inspiring. A book for parents and children to have a conversation about many historic facts and issues. With great pictures and interesting stories, pretty soon your child will have a favorite role model.

The Story of Leonardo da Vinci

This literary nonfiction is about the life of Leonardo da Vinci – the famous painter and thinker. He was not only a great artist but ideated about modern inventions like contact lenses among other things. A bright and creative mind, Leonardo’s childhood and life story is a glorious read.

Egypt Collection

Take a trip to ancient Egypt and read about the great pyramids, Cleopatra’s life, mummies, and more. The text is in bold, accompanied by interesting bright pictures. This historical nonfiction book with short chapters is perfect for any reluctant third grader.

Nonfiction Books – Nature & Earth Science

This is a gorgeous book has information about different leaves and activities rolled into one. Bright pictures, along with uneven cuts and pages, transform this visual book to a higher level. It reads like a beautiful story. Third graders are sure to enjoy the activities and independent reading.

Geography: A Visual Encyclopedia

Your child will read about the geological processes that have shaped our planet for millions of years. Starting with ice ages to global warming, earthquakes, tsunamis – all periods are included in this book. Visually stunning pictures of the snowy peak of Mount Everest, dark waters of the Mariana Trench, and more – are enough to keep your child interested.

Earth and Space Science

If your child is interested in earth science, this set of five books is a good choice. Read about the various climate and their effects, extreme weather, how the moon affects the earth, and more. The reading level is suitable for 8-years-old.

101 Things For Kids To Do Outside

Children of all ages should spend more and more time outside- playing, making friends, learning life lessons, and picking a few skills along the way. It is the most important developmental activity missing for kids in this digital age. This book has plenty of outdoor activity ideas for all seasons. You do not need any fancy stuff to do these activities. With inspiring pictures and fun group game ideas, it is highly recommended by parents and educators.

Where Were the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World?

Let your child take the journey along with the ancient travelers, as they narrate stories of ancient wonders of the world. Kids would love to read about the hanging garden made for the Babylonian queen. The Great Pyramids in Egypt is the only one present to date, out of these seven ancient wonders. Also, check out the other books from the  Where is  series.

Nonfiction Books – Science, Engineering, Activities

The Big Book of Airplanes

Learn about airplanes of all kinds – from commercial to military to the ones farmers use for crops and even space shuttles. With complete details on each type of plane – starting with the engineering behind, operations, and task – this book is a complete guide on airplanes. With multiple pictures of each type of airplanes, this book is a visual delight.

Space: Planets, Moons, Stars, and More!

Learn about the solar system – planets, moon, stars, asteroids, Milky Way galaxy, etc in this book. The information is presented in fun fact format. The images are real NASA pictures and large. The author broke down the tough to pronounce words for ease of reading. If you are planning to get one space nonfiction book for your child, covering all concepts, this book is the ideal choice.

Big Science Workbook

Let your child make a rainbow on a sunny day. This science workbook is filled with many such interesting activities. There are a total of 306 activity pages and 14 answer key sheets. Topics include – plants, seeds, insects, weather, mammals, ocean life, birds, and more. Children can read and complete the activities independently. The perforated pages make it easier to tear.

Nonfiction Reading Comprehension: Science

This narrative nonfiction book covers interesting science concepts. If you are looking for a book to practice reading, along with learning – this one is a good choice. Children can also practice their test-taking skills.

Brain Quest Workbook

This engaging workbook has many things included. Fun hands-on activities and games cover various topics of spelling, vocabulary, reading comprehension, simple math concepts, and much more. Bright illustrations throughout make it interesting. This book is highly recommended by parents.

The Complete Baking Book for Young Chefs

This book is for children who love to cook or bake. Step-by-step photos and pro tips make even the complex recipes easy to follow. Let your young ones bake with confidence.

Reading & Math Jumbo Workbook

Let your child practice vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing, multiplication, fractions with this fun workbook. The pictures are colorful, and activities are in the format of interesting learning games. Also included are free stickers!

More 3rd Grader Books & Topics

How to select books for 3rd graders.

3rd graders are confident readers. They can read relatively longer sentences independently. Nonfiction books selected for 8-year-olds need to cater to their inquisitive minds while also be challenging enough to improve their reading skills. The books should be appealing with few illustrations, and the language should be simple.

Video Of 3rd Grade Nonfiction Books

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25 Best Nonfiction Books for 6th Graders (11 Year-Olds)

• Historical Fiction
• Activity Books
• Science Fiction
• Family & Friends
• Realistic Fiction
• STEM & Nature
• Personal Growth
• Fantasy Books