Engaging children’s literature can be the gateway to a lifelong love of reading for your students. Explore some wonderful new and old favorites this school year and make reading come alive. Here are suggestions for 10 must read children’s books to get you started!
Must Read Children’s Books for the School Year
Elementary Grades
1. Magic Apple Seed by Meg Primola Russell
A choose your own adventure book, Magic Apple Seed gives students the opportunity to explore story elements in fun and creative ways. We also love that there is a music CD with each book that features songs with all three of the possible endings. Great for listening centers, library time, and small group work!
2. Chasing Cheetahs: The Race to Save Africa’s Fastest Cat by Sy Montgomery and Nic Bishop
With beautiful photographs and engaging text, children are transported into the world and work of those who are trying desperately to save the Cheetah population. Also recommended are Sy Montgomer’s other books as they are a fabulous look into the world of some of the planet’s most interesting animals.
3. Tuesday Tucks Me In: The Loyal Bond Between a Soldier and His Service Dog by Luis Carlos Montalvan, Brit Witter, and Dan Dion
This non-fiction story, while narrated by Tuesday, describes the relationship and love between a service dog and the soldier he stands by.
4. Open This Little Book by Jesse Klausmeier
This is a lovely and creative story about reading, books, and the importance of friendship. The engaging illustrations and unique design make it an instant favorite with young learners.
5. The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt
When his box of crayons quits, Duncan is forced to think outside of the box to get them to work together. His creativity knows new heights as he cajoles and coaxes the crayons to come back.
Middle Grades
1. Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys
Steeped in research, Ruta Sepetys’ Out of the Easy weaves a tangled web of loyalty, survival, and personal realizations. Poignant and personal, Josie’s story comes alive through Sepetys’ exquisite storytelling. Also recommended is Ruta Sepetys’ book, Between Shades of Gray – which has nothing to do with a more adult book of a similar name.
2. Paperboy by Vince Vawter
Some characters grab you until you become part of them and Victor Vollmer is one of those who you will never forget. Find out how stuttering not only impacts his life, but how it shapes his future in this Newbery Honor Award Winner.
3. Night of the Twisters by Ivy Ruckman
Although not a new book, Night of the Twisters is a sure hit. Based on the actual events in July 1980 in Grand Island, Nebraska, Night of the Twisters details the tornadoes that demolished the small town through the eyes and experiences of two boys. No matter how many times you read it, this book grips you in the excitement and drama that Ruckman creates in this timeless story.
4. Lincoln’s Grave Robbers by Steve Sheinkin
Described as a true crime thriller, Lincoln’s Grave Robbers tells the story of the actual attempt to steal President Lincoln’s body. Despite the fact that the events happened over 100 years ago, the story is sure to capture students’ attention and give them a glimpse into the world of little known historical facts.
5. Ungifted by Gordon Korman
A true middle school caper, Ungifted champions the underdog, addresses the craziness of middle school, and includes a healthy dose of age-appropriate pranks!