Appropriate Books for 5th Graders to Read
Finding appropriate books for 5th graders to read can be challenging. Since reading is so important, we searched high and low to find some good picks for our users. It’s important for children to read as it helps them develop stronger vocabulary and language skills, allowing them to communicate more effectively. Reading exposes students to new words, phrases, and sentence structures that they may not encounter in everyday conversation. This expanded vocabulary helps them express themselves better both in writing and speaking.
Reading helps in cognitive development and critical thinking. As 5th graders read different types of texts, they learn various problem-solving strategies and are introduced to different perspectives. Analyzing characters, plotlines, and themes helps them develop a deeper understanding of the world around them and enhances their ability to think critically. Reading also enhances the student’s academic success. By the time students reach 5th grade, they are expected to be proficient readers who can comprehend complex texts across various subjects. As they read more advanced materials in science, social studies, and literature, their overall academic performance improves.
Reading fosters empathy and emotional intelligence. Engaging with diverse characters experiencing different challenges allows 5th graders to empathize with others and encourages a broader perspective on life. We searched high and low so you don’t have to so we can find appropriate books for fifth graders. New, old, and classic books we thought your 5th grader would enjoy, as well as,
Here are the top 10 books for 5th graders to read:
“Holes” by Louis Sachar
Plot: ‘Holes’ tells the story of a young boy named Stanley Yelnats, who unjustly gets sent to Camp Green Lake, a detention center for juvenile delinquents, due to being falsely accused of stealing a pair of sneakers. The story is full of mystery, adventure, and meaningful life lessons. In the detention center, Stanley and his fellow inmates are forced to dig holes in the desert each day to supposedly build character. However, as Stanley uncovers the secrets behind the camp, he realizes there’s much more than character building going on.
Why it is good for fifth graders? It’s written in simple language that middle grade students can easily comprehend. It has an engaging plot with various twists and turns that help maintain the interest of young readers.
Morals/Lessons Learned: ‘Holes’ teaches valuable lessons about friendship, perseverance, and dealing with challenges in life. Its themes of overcoming adversity and standing up to injustice resonate with youngsters who may be confronting these issues within their own lives. It promotes several messages essential for personal growth and development. One significant lesson is the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and facing the consequences, even when life seems unfair. Furthermore, the novel emphasizes the value of working together with others and forging strong relationships built on trust and loyalty. Ultimately, it conveys that individuals have the power to break cycles of misfortune by making conscious choices and standing up for what they believe in.
“Wonder” by R.J. Palacio – Appropriate books for 5th graders to read
Plot: “Wonder” is a heartwarming and inspiring novel that tells the story of August “Auggie” Pullman, a ten-year-old boy with a facial deformity. As Auggie starts attending a mainstream school for the first time, he encounters various challenges, but also learns about friendship, empathy, and acceptance.
Why is it good for 5th graders to read? The book is suitable for 5th graders for several reasons. First, it offers a relatable protagonist who experiences similar anxieties and emotions as children of this age group. Additionally, “Wonder” introduces young readers to the topic of physical differences and disability in an age-appropriate manner. Furthermore, the story encourages discussions around empathy, kindness, and bullying—important topics for students in this developmental stage.
Moral/Lessons Learned: The moral of “Wonder” emphasizes the significance of compassion and understanding in our everyday lives. This lesson is highlighted through the personal growth of Auggie, as well as other characters in the story who come to embrace acceptance and tolerance. By reading this book, 5th graders can learn about resilience and recognizing the beauty within themselves and others, even if they appear different on the outside.
“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling
Can we call the Harry Potter series a classic yet? It’s probably too soon since the first book only came out in 2001, but at some point these books will be considered a classic.
Plot: The first book in the popular series introduces readers to the magical world of Hogwarts and its memorable characters. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is a fantasy novel by J.K. Rowling that tells the story of young Harry Potter, who discovers he is a wizard. The book follows Harry’s journey as he joins Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, makes friends, and uncovers secrets of his past.
Why is it appropriate books for 5th graders to read? It is suitable for 5th graders because it encourages reading through its engaging storytelling and exciting plot, while simultaneously introducing essential themes like friendship, bravery, and determination to young readers.
Moral/Lessons Learned: One of the central morals is the importance of courage and standing up for what is right. Throughout the story, Harry and his friends face numerous obstacles and challenges that require them to display bravery beyond their years. It teaches readers that heroism comes in different forms and that even the smallest acts of courage can make a significant impac
“Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan – Appropriate books for 5th Graders
Plot: This adventure-filled book follows Percy, a modern-day demigod, as he discovers his true identity and embarks on a quest to save the world.
Why is it good for 5th graders to read? This book is particularly good for 5th graders because it combines engaging storytelling with relatable characters and exciting events, which helps young readers develop their love of reading. Additionally, the book introduces Greek mythology in a modern and accessible context, promoting learning about classical literature and history.
Moral/Lessons Learned: The moral of the book is to embrace one’s unique qualities and never give up in the face of adversity. Throughout the story, Percy Jackson discovers his true identity as a demigod and overcomes numerous challenges along his journey. He learns the importance of friendship, teamwork, and accepting oneself for who they are. This message can inspire 5th graders to believe in themselves and have confidence in their abilities to overcome obstacles as they navigate their own lives.
“The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis
Plot: This timeless classic transports readers to the fantastical realm of Narnia, a land filled with fantastical creatures and magical happenings. It revolves around four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—who discover a magical wardrobe that transports them to the enchanting world of Narnia. There, they encounter talking animals and mythical creatures while fighting an epic battle against the White Witch who has plunged Narnia into eternal winter. With the help of Aslan, a wise and powerful lion who represents good, the children embark on a journey to defeat evil forces and restore peace in Narnia.
Why is it good for 5th graders to read? It’s an excellent book for 5th graders to read for several reasons. First, the vocabulary and sentence structure are appropriately challenging for students at this grade level, helping them to develop their language skills. The story also features relatable child protagonists, which allows 5th graders to connect personally with the characters and their experiences.
Moral/Lessons Learned: The moral of the “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” is the importance of standing up against evil despite obstacles and hardships. Throughout their adventures in Narnia, Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy learn valuable lessons about forgiveness, redemption, responsibility, and true bravery. These teachings are conveyed in an engaging way to young readers via memorable characters and thrilling events. Overall, this book effectively educates children on essential life values while providing an entertaining reading experience.
“The Lemonade War” by Jaqueline Davies
Plot: This is a series that revolves around two siblings, Evan and Jessie Treski, who find themselves competing against each other in a lemonade stand war during their summer break. The competition begins when Evan, who is entering fifth grade, becomes jealous of his younger sister Jessie’s academic success as she skips a grade and will be in the same class as him. To assert his superiority and to make the most money, Evan challenges Jessie to see who can sell the most lemonade over the summer.
Why is it appropriate books for 5th graders to read? The Lemonade War is a great book for 5th graders to read because it effectively deals with themes such as sibling rivalry, entrepreneurial spirit, problem-solving, and cooperation. It allows young readers to relate to the emotions experienced by the characters while also learning valuable life skills like teamwork and communication. Additionally, it provides examples of simple math problems and business ideas that can enhance a young reader’s understanding of these concepts.
Moral/Lessons Learned: The moral of the story is that cooperation and empathy are more important than competition, even among siblings. By working together rather than trying to outdo one another, Evan and Jessie both discover that they can achieve more success and happiness. Through this realization, they mend their relationship and strengthen their bond as siblings. Overall, The Lemonade War illustrates the importance of healthy competition while highlighting the importance of family unity and collaboration.
“A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story” by Linda Sue Parker
Plot: “A Long Walk to Water” is centered around two characters, Nya, an eleven-year-old girl in Southern Sudan, and Salva Dut, a Sudanese boy who is forced to flee his village due to civil war in 1985. The narrative alternates between their respective stories. Nya spends her days walking for hours to fetch water for her family, while Salva faces numerous challenges as he embarks on a treacherous journey through East Africa to find safety.
Why is it appropriate books for 5th graders to read? This book is good for 5th graders to read as it introduces them to real-world issues and promotes empathy towards people who face harsh realities daily. It helps expand their perspective on global crises like lack of access to clean water and the struggles that refugees experience. Additionally, the book demonstrates the value of resilience and determination in overcoming obstacles.
Moral/Lessons Learned: The moral of “A Long Walk to Water” can be seen as perseverance and hope. Both main characters exhibit remarkable strength in the face of adversity. Their experiences show readers that even when life seems impossible, one can find courage within themselves to face challenges and work towards improving their situation, regardless of how daunting it may seem.
“The Girl Who Drank the Moon” by Kelly Barnhill
Plot: “The Girl Who Drank the Moon” revolves around a village called Protectorate that has lived under the shadow of a witch for centuries. Every year, they sacrifice a baby to the witch in the forest, hoping it will keep her away. However, the witch named Xan is kind-hearted and rescues these children by bringing them to families on the other side of the forest. One year, Xan accidentally feeds a baby moonlight, which gives her magical powers. The baby, named Luna, is raised by Xan and her magical family. As Luna grows older and learns more about her powers and past, she uncovers dark secrets that threaten to upend everything she has known about herself and her origins.
Why is it appropriate for 5th graders to read? The book, geared toward 5th graders, offers a rich blend of immersive storytelling, well-developed characters, and vivid settings. It teaches young readers about the importance of love, trust, and embracing their own identity. Themes such as courage and challenging unjust authority also resonate with this age group.
Moral/Lessons Learned: The moral of “The Girl Who Drank the Moon” emphasizes overcoming fear through love and knowledge. As Luna and her magical family navigate through challenges, they come to learn that fear is often based in misunderstanding or misinformation. Ultimately, they triumph over fear by strengthening bonds with one another, unveiling hidden truths, and harnessing their inner strength.
We added a bonus book just because we can’t get enough of reading and this one focuses on life tips in general. Something every teen needs to know.
“Life Skills for Tweens: How to Cook, Make Friends, Be Self Confident and Healthy. Everything a Pre Teen Should Know to Be a Brilliant Teenager”
Plot: “Life Skills for Tweens: How to Cook, Make Friends, Be Self Confident and Healthy. Everything a Pre Teen Should Know to Be a Brilliant Teenager” revolves around teaching essential life skills to pre-teens that will help them navigate their teenage years with confidence and competence. The book offers practical advice, tips, and activities designed to help tweens develop crucial abilities in areas such as cooking, friendship-building, self-confidence, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Why is it appropriate for 5th graders to read? This book is good for 5th graders because it’s specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by pre-teens as they transition into adolescence. It provides actionable tips and guidance that are easy for 5th graders to comprehend and apply in their daily lives. Furthermore, it helps them develop a strong foundation of valuable skills that foster independence and resilience.
Moral: The moral of the story is that equipping oneself with essential life skills at an early age paves the way for a successful and happy adolescence, as well as adulthood. Empowered with essential life skills, tweens will be better prepared to handle diverse challenges confidently as they progress in life.
It is important for 5th graders to read because it helps improve their critical thinking skills, vocabulary, comprehension, and overall knowledge. Encourage them to read a variety of materials, both fiction and non-fiction, to broaden their perspective and understanding of the world around them. The above books are just a few of our choices – have you read any books that you recommend? Leave a comment and let us know.