34 Books for 5th Grade Reading: Must Read List
Selecting the right books for fifth graders is a crucial step in fostering a lifelong love of reading. At this stage, children are ready to explore more complex narratives, dive into different genres, and relate to characters who face challenges similar to their own. The best books for fifth graders are those that not only entertain but also inspire, teach valuable life lessons, and spark curiosity about the world around them. From heartwarming tales of friendship and resilience to thrilling adventures filled with magic and mystery, the choices are as diverse as the readers themselves.
34 Books for 5th Grade Reading: Must Read List
In this list of books, I have compiled a selection of standout books that are perfect for fifth graders, whether they're avid readers or just beginning to discover the joys of reading. These books include a mix of classic literature, modern fiction, graphic novels, and memoirs that will engage young minds and encourage a deeper understanding of themselves and others. Whether your fifth grader is looking to lose themselves in a fantasy world, learn about history, or connect with characters facing real-world issues, these favorite books offer something for every reader.
5th graders enjoy a wide range of books that cater to their growing interests and expanding reading levels / abilities. At this stage, they often seek stories that are more complex and challenging but still relatable and engaging.
Here are some types of books that fifth graders typically enjoy:
1. Adventure and Fantasy
Fifth graders love to be transported to other worlds, whether it's through epic quests, magical lands, or thrilling adventures. Books like "Harry Potter" by J.K. Rowling and "Percy Jackson & the Olympians" by Rick Riordan are popular because they offer immersive experiences filled with action, mystery, and wonder.
2. Graphic Novels
Graphic novels are visually engaging and often explore themes in an accessible way. They can range from humorous and lighthearted to serious and thought-provoking. Titles like "Smile" by Raina Telgemeier and "Amulet" by Kazu Kibuishi are beloved for their compelling stories and dynamic illustrations. Even 5th grade boys who are reluctant readers tend to enjoy the books on this list.
3. Realistic Fiction
Books that reflect the real-life experiences, challenges, and emotions of fifth graders resonate deeply. Stories about friendships, school life, and family dynamics, such as "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio and "Because of Winn-Dixie" by Kate DiCamillo, help readers see themselves in the characters and situations.
4. Historical Fiction
Historical fiction allows fifth graders to learn about different time periods and cultures through the eyes of relatable characters. Books like "Number the Stars" by Lois Lowry and "Esperanza Rising" by Pam Muñoz Ryan combine engaging narratives with educational content, making history come alive.
5. Mystery and Suspense
Fifth graders enjoy solving puzzles and following clues alongside the characters. Mystery books, like the "Nancy Drew" series or "The Westing Game" by Ellen Raskin, keep them on the edge of their seats, eager to figure out the solution before the final reveal.
6. Science Fiction
Science fiction appeals to fifth graders' curiosity about the future, technology, and the unknown. Books like "The Wild Robot" by Peter Brown and "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L’Engle introduce them to speculative concepts while weaving in exciting narratives.
7. Humor
At this age, readers still enjoy books that make them laugh. Funny books, like "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney or "The Adventures of Captain Underpants" by Dav Pilkey, are popular because they combine humor with relatable situations and characters.
8. Memoirs and Biographies
Fifth graders often begin to show interest in real-life stories and role models. Memoirs like "El Deafo" by Cece Bell and sports books of famous figures like Jackie Robinson provide inspiration and insight into the lives of others.
9. Animal Stories
Many fifth graders have a strong connection with animals and enjoy stories where animals play a central role. Books like "Charlotte's Web" by E.B. White and "The One and Only Ivan" by Katherine Applegate combine heartwarming tales with lessons about empathy, friendship, and care.
10. Dystopian and Survival Stories
As fifth graders develop more complex thinking skills, they start to appreciate stories about survival, societal challenges, and dystopian worlds. Books like "The Giver" by Lois Lowry and "Hatchet" by Gary Paulsen challenge them to think critically about human nature and resilience.
Overall, fifth graders are at an exciting point in their reading journey, where they are ready to explore diverse genres, complex plots, and deeper themes. Books that offer adventure, relatable characters to find a new best friend in a story, and a touch of the extraordinary tend to capture their imaginations the most.
Books for 5th Grade Reading: Must Read List
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Whether you are looking for a a book for your 5th grade class to read together, the perfect addition to children's book clubs, or a good book for your child, the book recommendations on this list will give you a great starting point.
"A Night Divided" by Jennifer A. Nielsen
Genre: Historical Fiction
Set during the Cold War, "A Night Divided" follows Gerta, a young girl living in East Berlin, whose family is torn apart when the Berlin Wall is erected overnight. Gerta’s father and brother are trapped on the other side, and she dreams of reuniting her family. The novel captures the tension, fear, and determination of those living under oppressive regimes, making it a powerful story of courage and hope.
2. "Coraline" by Neil Gaiman
Genre: Fantasy/Horror
"Coraline" tells the story of a young girl who discovers a parallel world behind a mysterious door in her new home. While this world seems better at first, with doppelgänger parents who cater to her every whim, Coraline soon realizes it hides sinister secrets. This eerie, atmospheric novel is a modern classic that explores bravery, curiosity, and the importance of being true to oneself.
3. "Dogtown" by Katherine Applegate and Gennifer Choldenko
Genre: Animal Fiction/Realistic Fiction
"Dogtown" is a heartwarming tale set in a no-kill animal shelter. The story weaves together the lives of the dogs waiting for their forever homes and the people who care for them. Through the eyes of the animals and the humans who love them, the novel explores themes of kindness, redemption, and the deep bonds that can form between humans and their furry companions.
4. "Finding Langston" by Lesa Cline-Ransome
Genre: Historical Fiction
"Finding Langston" is a touching novel about a young boy named Langston who moves to Chicago from Alabama after the death of his mother. Struggling with loneliness and bullying, Langston discovers solace in the local library and the poetry of Langston Hughes. This book beautifully captures the struggles of the Great Migration and the transformative power of literature.
5. "Frizzy" by Claribel Ortega
Genre: Realistic Fiction/Graphic Novel
Description: "Frizzy" follows the story of Marlene, a young girl who struggles with her curly hair and the societal pressures to conform to straight hair standards. Through her journey of self-acceptance, Marlene learns to embrace her natural curls and challenge beauty norms. This graphic novel celebrates individuality, cultural pride, and the importance of loving oneself.
6. "El Deafo" by Cece Bell
Genre: Memoir/Graphic Novel
In this semi-autobiographical graphic novel, Cece Bell shares her experience growing up deaf. After contracting meningitis at a young age, Cece navigates school life with the help of a powerful hearing aid that she imagines gives her superpowers. "El Deafo" is a heartwarming and humorous story about finding strength in differences and the universal need for friendship and acceptance.
7. "Golden Girl" by Reem Faruqi
Genre: Realistic Fiction
"Golden Girl" tells the story of Aafiyah, a Pakistani-American girl who struggles with kleptomania, the compulsion to steal. The novel explores Aafiyah’s internal conflicts, her family dynamics, and her journey toward self-awareness and redemption. Through Aafiyah’s story, readers gain insight into cultural identity, mental health, and the challenges of growing up.
8. "I Survived: Hurricane Katrina, 2005: The Graphic Novel" by Lauren Tarshis
Genre: Historical Fiction/Graphic Novel
This graphic novel adaptation of the popular I Survived series brings to life the harrowing experiences of a young boy named Barry during Hurricane Katrina. As Barry struggles to survive the storm and its aftermath, readers are given a gripping, visual portrayal of one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history.
9. "Jacky Ha-Ha" by James Patterson
Genre: Realistic Fiction
"Jacky Ha-Ha" follows the life of Jacky, a girl who uses humor to cope with the challenges of growing up in a large, chaotic family. With a mother serving in the military and a father who is often absent, Jacky must navigate school, friendships, and family responsibilities. This humorous and heartfelt story highlights the power of laughter and resilience.
10. "Maizy Chen’s Last Chance" by Lisa Yee
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Description: "Maizy Chen’s Last Chance" tells the story of Maizy, a young girl who spends the summer in Last Chance, Minnesota, with her grandparents. While there, she uncovers her family’s rich history and learns about the Chinese-American experience in a small town. Through Maizy’s journey, the novel explores themes of family, identity, and the importance of understanding one’s heritage, making it a heartfelt and enlightening read.
11. "Nicky and Vera: A Quiet Hero of the Holocaust and the Children He Rescued" by Peter Sis
Genre: Historical Biography/Picture Book
"Nicky and Vera" is the poignant true story of Nicholas Winton, who heroically saved hundreds of children from the Nazis during World War II. The book beautifully pairs Nicky’s story with that of Vera, one of the children he rescued. With its evocative illustrations and powerful narrative, this book serves as a moving tribute to the quiet bravery and compassion that changed many lives.
12. "Out of My Mind" by Sharon Draper
Genre: Realistic Fiction
"Out of My Mind" is a deeply inspiring novel about Melody, an 11-year-old girl with cerebral palsy who is unable to speak or walk but possesses a brilliant mind. The story is told from Melody’s perspective as she navigates a world that often underestimates her abilities. This powerful narrative explores themes of perseverance, self-expression, and the importance of seeing beyond a person’s physical limitations.
13. "Stealing Home" by J. Torres
Genre: Historical Fiction/Graphic Novel
Set during World War II, "Stealing Home" follows Sandy Saito, a Japanese-Canadian boy whose family faces internment after the attack on Pearl Harbor. This graphic novel provides a gripping portrayal of the injustice faced by Japanese Canadians during this period, seen through the eyes of a young boy who loves baseball. The story explores themes of identity, resilience, and the impact of prejudice.
14. "The Bookwanderers" by Anna James
Genre: Fantasy
The Bookwanderers introduces readers to Tilly Pages, a young girl who discovers she can enter the worlds of books and interact with their characters. As she embarks on magical adventures, Tilly uncovers secrets about her family and her own special abilities. This enchanting novel is a celebration of books, imagination, and the boundless power of storytelling, making it a perfect read for book lovers of all ages.
15. "The Lost Library" by Rebecca Stead
Genre: Mystery/Fantasy
"The Lost Library" is a captivating mystery that centers around a small town’s mysterious new library, where the books seem to know the readers’ deepest desires and needs. As children in the town begin to uncover the library’s secrets, they learn about the power of literature to heal, inspire, and change lives. This novel blends fantasy and mystery to create a thought-provoking and magical reading experience.
16. "The One Thing You’d Save" by Linda Sue Park
Genre: Realistic Fiction/Poetry
In "The One Thing You’d Save," a teacher asks her students a simple yet profound question: What would you save if your house was on fire? The students’ responses, expressed in a variety of poetic forms, reveal their values, memories, and emotions. This novel, written in verse, is a thought-provoking exploration of what truly matters in life, offering readers a unique and reflective reading experience.
17. "The Skull: A Tyrolean Folktale" by Jon Klassen
Genre: Folktale/Graphic Novel
"The Skull" is a visually stunning retelling of a Tyrolean folktale. It follows the story of a young girl who stumbles upon a creepy castle and befriends a talking skull. The tale is filled with suspense, dark humor, and unexpected twists, making it a captivating read for those who enjoy stories with a touch of the macabre. Klassen’s illustrations add to the eerie atmosphere, making this folktale truly memorable.
18. "The Terrible Two" by Mac Barnett
Genre: Humor/Realistic Fiction
"The Terrible Two" is a laugh-out-loud great book about main character Miles Murphy, a prankster who moves to a new town and meets Niles, another prankster who challenges him to a friendly rivalry. Together, they form a pranking duo that takes their school by storm. This hilarious novel is filled with clever pranks, witty dialogue, and a celebration of creativity and friendship, making it a fun and engaging read for middle school students.
19. "Time Villains" by Victor Piñeiro
Genre: Fantasy/Adventure
"Time Villains" follows Javi Santiago, a middle schooler who accidentally brings famous historical and fictional characters to life during a dinner party. When Blackbeard the pirate and other notorious figures start causing chaos, Javi and his friends must find a way to set things right. This time-traveling adventure is filled with humor, action, and a cast of iconic characters, offering readers a thrilling and entertaining journey through history and fiction.
20. "The Wild Robot" by Peter Brown
Genre: Science Fiction/Fantasy
"The Wild Robot" tells the story of Roz, a robot who washes ashore on a remote island and must learn to survive in the wild. As Roz adapts to her surroundings and makes new friends in the animals of the island, she discovers what it means to be alive. This beautifully illustrated novel explores themes of survival, community, and the intersection of nature and technology, making it a thought-provoking and heartwarming read. No matter your age, this is a book series that you MUST READ.
21. "My Side of the Mountain" by Jean Craighead George
Genre: Adventure/Survival
"My Side of the Mountain" follows the adventures of Sam Gribley, a young boy who runs away from his crowded New York City apartment to live alone in the Catskill Mountains. Armed with only a few supplies and his knowledge of nature, Sam learns to live off the land, befriending a falcon and navigating the challenges of survival. This classic novel is a celebration of independence, nature, and self-discovery.
22. "Little House" series by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Genre: Historical Fiction
The "Little House" series chronicles the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder as she grows up on the American frontier. These beloved books offer readers a glimpse into the daily life of a pioneer family, filled with the joys and hardships of settling in the wilderness. Through Laura’s eyes, readers experience the values of family, perseverance, and the pioneering spirit that defined a generation.
23. "Holes" by Louis Sachar
Genre: Adventure/Mystery
"Holes" tells the story of Stanley Yelnats, a boy sent to a juvenile detention center in the desert, where he and the other boys are forced to dig holes every day. As the novel unfolds, Stanley uncovers the history behind the camp, his own family’s curse, and the true purpose of the digging. This unique blend of adventure, mystery, and humor makes "Holes" a modern classic.
24. "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH" by Robert C. O'Brien
Genre: Fantasy
"Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH" follows the story of Mrs. Frisby, a widowed mouse who seeks the help of a group of highly intelligent rats to save her home and family. The rats, who have escaped from a laboratory where they were experimented on, have created a complex society in the wild. This novel explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the ethical implications of scientific experimentation.
25. "Dear Mr. Henshaw" by Beverly Cleary
Genre: Realistic Fiction
"Dear Mr. Henshaw" is a novel told through a series of letters written by Leigh Botts, a young boy who writes to his favorite author, Mr. Henshaw. As Leigh navigates his parents’ divorce, struggles with loneliness, and faces challenges at school, he finds solace in writing. This heartfelt novel explores the themes of self-expression, coping with change, and finding one’s voice.
26. "Island of the Blue Dolphins" by Scott O'Dell
Genre: Historical Fiction
Description: Based on a true story, "Island of the Blue Dolphins" follows Karana, a young Native American girl who is stranded alone on an island off the California coast. As she learns to survive using her resourcefulness and connection with nature, Karana’s story becomes one of resilience, self-reliance, and the deep bond between humans and the natural world. This novel is a powerful testament to the human spirit.
28. "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
The "Harry Potter" series follows the life of Harry Potter, a young wizard who discovers his magical heritage on his 11th birthday. As Harry attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, he uncovers the truth about his past and faces the dark wizard Lord Voldemort. Filled with magic, friendship, and epic battles between good and evil, this iconic series has captivated readers of all ages.
29. "The Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Genre: Classic Fiction
"The Secret Garden" follows the story of Mary Lennox, a spoiled and lonely girl who is sent to live with her uncle in a gloomy mansion. There, she discovers a hidden, neglected garden and begins to restore it with the help of new friends. As the garden flourishes, so does Mary’s spirit. This classic novel explores themes of healing, friendship, and the transformative power of nature.
30. "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain
Genre: Classic Fiction/Adventure
"The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" is a classic American novel that follows the journey of Huck Finn, a young boy who runs away from his abusive father and embarks on a journey down the Mississippi River. Along the way, Huck is joined by Jim, a runaway slave, and together they face various challenges and moral dilemmas. This novel is celebrated for its exploration of freedom, friendship, and social justice.
31. "Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan
Genre: Fantasy/Adventure
"The Lightning Thief" is the first book in the "Percy Jackson" series, which follows the adventures of Percy Jackson, a modern-day demigod and the son of Poseidon. Percy discovers his true identity and sets out on a quest to prevent a war among the Greek gods. This action-packed novel is filled with mythology, humor, and the challenges of growing up, making it a favorite among young readers.
32. "Where the Red Fern Grows" by Wilson Rawls
Genre: Classic Fiction
"Where the Red Fern Grows" is a heartwarming and emotional story about a boy named Billy and his two loyal hunting dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann. Set in the Ozarks, the novel explores themes of loyalty, love, and the bond between humans and animals. This timeless tale is a poignant reflection on the joys and sorrows of life.
33. "Artemis Fowl" series by Eoin Colfer
Genre: Fantasy/Science Fiction
The "Artemis Fowl" series follows the adventures of Artemis Fowl, a young criminal mastermind who encounters a hidden world of fairies and magical creatures. As Artemis plots to exploit this world for his own gain, he finds himself embroiled in battles between good and evil. This series is known for its clever plots, fast-paced action, and blend of fantasy and technology.
34. "The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle" by Avi
Genre: Historical Fiction/Adventure
"The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle" is the thrilling tale of Charlotte, a young girl who embarks on a transatlantic voyage in 1832 and finds herself caught up in a mutiny. As Charlotte navigates the challenges of life at sea, she must confront her own beliefs about class, gender, and justice. This novel is a gripping adventure that explores themes of courage, loyalty, and self-discovery.
This list includes a wide range of genres and themes, offering a diverse selection of books that cater to the interests and reading levels of fifth graders. Whether they enjoy adventure, fantasy, historical fiction, or classic literature, there’s something here for every young reader.
As fifth graders stand on the brink of middle school, the books they choose to read can play a crucial role in shaping their perspectives, sparking their imaginations, and developing their love for literature. The titles on this list offer a diverse array of stories—from thrilling adventures and magical worlds to heartfelt tales of friendship and resilience. Each book has the power to transport young readers to different times, places, and situations, helping them understand themselves and the world around them better. By exploring these books, fifth graders can cultivate their empathy, creativity, and critical thinking skills, all while being entertained and inspired.
Encouraging a fifth grader to dive into these books can open up endless possibilities for learning and growth. Whether they are drawn to the excitement of fantasy, the depth of historical fiction, or the humor and heart found in realistic stories, there is something on this list to captivate every reader. As they journey through these pages, they will not only enjoy the thrill of a good story but also build a foundation of reading that will serve them well in the years to come. These books are more than just stories—they are stepping stones to a lifetime of literary exploration and enjoyment.
