If you’re looking for the perfect books to engage and educate your 3rd grader, you’re in luck!
In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of the 50 best books for third graders. As a former public school teacher, camp counselor, and mom of three, I have a knack for picking out books kids will like.
And research has shown that children who read for pleasure not only perform better in school, but also develop stronger analytical and critical thinking skills. That’s why I’ve carefully selected books that will not only captivate your child’s imagination, but also provide valuable life lessons.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the best books out there for third graders to add to your home or classroom library.
💡If you’re looking for great reads across all ages and categories, you can browse our full Books for Kids guide here.
Quick Picks: Best Books for 3rd Graders
If you just want a fast shortlist, these are some of the most loved, age-appropriate picks for third graders – a mix of classics, contemporary favorites, and engaging series that keep independent readers turning pages:
- The Wild Robot by Peter Brown — Heartfelt adventure with big themes of nature and belonging.
- The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate — A moving, accessible story with strong emotional appeal.
- The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale — Silly, energetic, and great for new chapter-book readers.
- A Boy Called Bat by Elana K. Arnold — Warm family dynamics and a relatable main character.
- The Magic Tree House by Mary Pope Osborne — Easy-to-follow adventures that build early reading confidence.
- The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett — A classic with just-right depth for advanced 3rd grade readers.
- The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier — Fun, high-energy, and perfect for reluctant readers.
- Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly — Friendship, courage, and a captivating voice for middle-grade readers.
- Wonder by R.J. Palacio — Empathy, kindness, and meaningful conversations in one accessible read.
- The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser — Cozy, character-driven storytelling with a big heart.
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney — Light, funny, and a reliable choice for kids who want humor.
- Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White — A timeless favorite with strong themes and gentle insight.
Best Overall Chapter Books for 3rd Graders
These are some of the best chapter books for 3rd graders—engaging stories with accessible language, clear plots, and themes that resonate with eight- and nine-year-old readers. They work well for independent reading at home, classroom book clubs, or shared family read-alouds.
The Wild Robot (Peter Brown)
Combines nature and technology to promote empathy toward the environment and the power of adaptation. It invites children to consider the harmony between technology and nature.
A Boy Called Bat (Elana K. Arnold)
Highlights responsibility, family love, and acceptance through a boy’s care for an orphaned skunk. It helps readers appreciate differences and nurturing relationships.
The Last Kids on Earth (Max Brallier)
A fun, action-packed adventure promoting teamwork, bravery, and creativity in a monster-filled world. It encourages imaginative play and problem-solving skills.
Hello, Universe (Erin Entrada Kelly)
The book explores themes of identity, friendship, and the power of fate, all while telling a heartwarming and entertaining story that resonates with readers of all ages.
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street (Karina Yan Glaser)
Showcases family unity, determination, and community spirit through a Harlem family’s story. It celebrates diversity and the strength found in close-knit communities.
Wishtree (Katherine Applegate)
A touching story about community, kindness, and standing against prejudice through the eyes of a wise tree.
The Magic Misfits (Neil Patrick Harris)
The series follows the adventures of a group of young friends who love magic and use their skills to solve mysteries and outsmart villains. This promotes teamwork, courage, and the magic of friendship through adventurous magic acts. It encourages creativity and believing in oneself.
Front Desk (Kelly Yang)
Teaches perseverance, immigrant experience, and standing up for justice through a young girl’s motel adventures. It fosters empathy and understanding of cultural challenges.
Best Contemporary Books for 3rd Graders
Contemporary books give 3rd graders stories that feel fresh, relatable, and rooted in the world they know today. These picks blend accessible writing with themes like friendship, courage, identity, and problem-solving — all in a way that keeps young readers engaged. Whether your child enjoys realistic fiction, humor, adventure, or heartfelt stories, these modern chapter books offer something for every type of reader.
The War That Saved My Life (Kimberly Brubaker Bradley)
A powerful WWII story about overcoming adversity and finding family through courage and love. The story explores themes of resilience, identity, family, and the power of love.
Pax (Sara Pennypacker)
Pax tells the story of a boy named Peter and his pet fox, Pax. The book explores themes of love, loss, and the bond between humans and animals. It is a touching and thought-provoking story that will appeal to readers of all ages, especially those who love animals and nature.
The One and Only Ivan (Katherine Applegate)
A heartwarming story about a gorilla’s friendship and resilience, encouraging empathy and awareness of animal rights.
The Princess in Black (Shannon Hale)
The Princess in Black series follows the adventures of Princess Magnolia, who is secretly a superhero known as the Princess in Black.
Ghost (Jason Reynolds)
This is a moving tale about a young boy named Castle “Ghost” Cranshaw who used sports to overcome trauma and build resilience.
The Unadoptables (Hana Tooke)
“The Unadoptables” by Hana Tooke is a captivating middle-grade novel about a group of orphans in early 20th-century Amsterdam who are considered too difficult to be adopted by families. The story centers around five children with unique personalities, including an inventor, an artist, and a storyteller, who are determined to find their forever home.
The Terrible Two (Jory John and Mac Barnett)
This book teaches creativity, humor, and the value of teamwork through clever pranks. It fosters social skills and the joy of playful problem-solving.
The Parker Inheritance (Varian Johnson)
The Parker Inheritance has been praised for its complex characters, engaging plot, and its ability to tackle difficult themes in a way that is accessible to young readers.
The Dragonet Prophecy (Tui T. Sutherland)
The Dragonet Prophecy is a thrilling and action-packed adventure story that is perfect for readers who love stories about dragons, magic, and epic battles. The book has been praised for its world-building and character development
Wonder (R.J. Palacio)
Wonder is a relatable novel that follows the story of August Pullman, a ten-year-old boy with a facial deformity. It has been widely acclaimed for its powerful message of inclusivity and its ability to inspire compassion and understanding in readers of all ages.
The Girl Who Drank The Moon (Kelly Barnhill)
The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a whimsical and enchanting story about a young girl named Luna, who is raised by a kind witch and a tiny dragon in a magical forest. This Newbery Medal-winning novel is full of adventure, magic, and heart.
Esperanza Rising (Pam Muñoz Ryan)
Esperanza Rising is a coming-of-age story of a young girl named Esperanza, who grows up in luxury in Mexico during the Great Depression. It inspires strength in the face of hardship.
Refugee (Alan Gratz)
Refugee is a middle-grade novel that follows the stories of three different refugees from different parts of the world and periods. It challenges readers to appreciate the resilience of displaced families worldwide.
The Secret Keepers (Trenton Lee Stewart)
An exciting adventure novel for young readers that follows the story of 11-year-old Reuben Pedley as he unravels a decades-old mystery in his hometown of New Umbra.
Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling)
Throughout the series, Harry and his friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger battle the evil Lord Voldemort and his followers, known as Death Eaters. The books are renowned for their imaginative world-building, relatable characters, and themes of love, friendship, and bravery.
The Puzzling World of Winston Breen (Eric Berlin)
The Puzzling World of Winston Breen is a thrilling mystery novel for young readers that follows the adventures of twelve-year-old Winston Breen, a puzzle enthusiast who stumbles upon a real-life treasure hunt.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Jeff Kinney)
The Diary of a Wimpy Kid is a popular children’s book series. It follows the misadventures of middle-schooler Greg Heffley as he navigates the ups and downs of adolescence, from dealing with bullies and crushes to surviving the school cafeteria and trying to become popular.
Invention of Hugo Cabret (Brian Selznick)
The Invention of Hugo Cabret is a novel by Brian Selznick that tells the story of a young orphan named Hugo, who lives in a train station in Paris in the 1930s. It blends mystery and art to inspire creativity and problem-solving. It encourages visual thinking alongside literacy skills.
Inside Out and Back Again (Thanhha Lai)
A poetic narrative teaching resilience and cultural adjustment through a refugee’s eyes. It builds empathy and understanding for those facing change.
Geronimo Stilton (Elisabetta Dami)
This popular series is a mix of adventure, comedy, and mystery, and is written in a unique format that incorporates colorful fonts, illustrations, and maps.
Captain Underpants (Dav Pilkey)
Accessible and entertaining for early readers, it follows the adventures of two mischievous boys named George Beard and Harold Hutchins, who love to create comic books and practical jokes.
Wishtree (Katherine Applegate)
Told from the perspective of an old oak tree, this gentle story highlights kindness, community, and standing up for what’s right.
Hello, Universe (Erin Entrada Kelly)
A thoughtful, character-driven story about friendship, bravery, and unexpected connections. Multiple viewpoints keep the story engaging without being overwhelming.
The Wild Robot (Peter Brown)
A creative blend of nature, technology, and survival. Roz the robot learns to adapt to life on a remote island, encouraging curiosity and big conversations.
A Boy Called Bat (Elana K. Arnold)
A warm, humorous story about a boy who cares for an orphaned skunk. It highlights empathy, family relationships, and the excitement of caring for animals.
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street (Karina Yan Glaser)
A cozy, uplifting novel about five siblings determined to save their family’s home. It celebrates community, teamwork, and perseverance.
Front Desk (Kelly Yang)
Inspired by the author’s childhood, this fast-paced story follows a girl who helps run a motel while facing school challenges, friendships, and questions of fairness.
The Last Kids on Earth (Max Brallier)
Funny, illustrated, and action-packed — great for reluctant readers or kids who love adventure without heavy text.
The Magic Misfits (Neil Patrick Harris)
A lively mystery-adventure series featuring a group of friends who use magic to solve problems. It encourages teamwork and creativity.
Best Classic Books for 3rd Graders
Classic books have a lasting appeal for a reason — they’re timeless, imaginative, and filled with memorable characters. These stories have been loved by generations of readers and still resonate with 3rd graders today. Many are perfect for family read-alouds, while others are great for independent reading. If you’re looking to build a strong foundational library, these classics are a wonderful place to start.
The Secret Garden (Frances Hodgson Burnett)
The story follows a young girl named Mary Lennox who is orphaned in India and sent to live with her uncle in England. Mary is a spoiled and unhappy child who has never known love or friendship, but when she arrives at her uncle’s estate, she discovers a secret garden that has been locked up and abandoned for years.
The BFG (Roald Dahl)
The story follows a young orphan named Sophie who is snatched from her bed in the middle of the night by a giant, who takes her to a faraway land called Giant Country.
The Magic Tree House (Mary Pope Osborne)
The series follows the adventures of siblings Jack and Annie as they travel through time and space in a magical tree house filled with books.
The Boxcar Children (Gertrude Chandler Warner)
The Boxcar Children series has been widely praised for its engaging storytelling, relatable characters, and positive messages about family, friendship, and perseverance.
Charlotte’s Web ( E.B. White)
A timeless classic by E.B. White about a pig named Wilbur and his unlikely friendship with a spider named Charlotte. Charlotte helps Wilbur avoid becoming bacon by weaving messages about his worth into her webs.
The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe (C.S. Lewis)
In this C.S. Lewis classic, four siblings are transported to a magical land called Narnia through a magical wardrobe, where they help a lion named Aslan defeat the evil White Witch.
Little House in the Big Woods (Laura Ingalls Wilder)
The first book in the beloved “Little House” series by Laura Ingalls Wilder follows the adventures of the Ingalls family living in a log cabin in the Wisconsin woods in the late 1800s.
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (L. Frank Baum)
When a tornado sweeps Dorothy and her dog Toto to the land of Oz, they embark on a journey to meet the Wizard and find their way back home.
Black Beauty (Anna Sewell)
A classic tale by Anna Sewell of the life of a horse named Black Beauty, who experiences both kindness and cruelty at the hands of humans.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (Lewis Carroll)
After chasing a white rabbit down a hole, Alice finds herself in a strange and surreal world where she encounters various bizarre characters and situations.
Heidi (Johanna Spyri)
After being orphaned at a young age, Heidi is sent to live with her reclusive grandfather in the Swiss Alps, where she befriends a young goat-herder named Peter and learns to love the simple life.
Peter Pan (J.M. Barrie)
The timeless story of a boy who never grows up and his adventures with the Darling children in Neverland, where they battle pirates and encounter magical creatures.
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (Mark Twain)
Set in the 1800s in a small Missouri town, this novel follows the mischievous adventures of young Tom Sawyer and his friends, including his love interest Becky Thatcher.
The Call of the Wild (Jack London)
This novel tells the story of a dog named Buck, who is stolen from his home in California and sold into the brutal world of the Alaskan sled dog teams.
The Wind in the Willows (Kenneth Grahame)
This charming story follows the adventures of Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger, four anthropomorphic animal friends who live along the banks of a river in the English countryside.
The Tale of Peter Rabbit (Beatrix Potter)
A classic children’s book about a mischievous rabbit named Peter who disobeys his mother and ventures into the dangerous garden of Mr. McGregor.
Mary Poppins (P.L. Travers)
When the Banks children’s new nanny blows in on the wind, they have no idea that they’re in for a magical and unforgettable adventure with the eccentric Mary Poppins.
Pippi Longstocking (Astrid Lindgren)
The mischievous and adventurous Pippi Longstocking lives with her monkey and horse in a colorful and quirky house, and has many wild and hilarious adventures.
A Wrinkle in Time (Madeleine L’Engle)
Meg Murry, her brother, and a friend travel through time and space to rescue Meg’s father from evil forces.
The Tale of Despereaux (Kate DiCamillo)
A small mouse with big ears, a brave rat, and a lonely princess all play roles in this story about love, forgiveness, and redemption.
The Cricket in Times Square (George Selden)
This beloved classic tells the story of Chester, a country cricket who accidentally finds himself in the bustling Times Square subway station in New York City. This heartwarming tale of friendship and adventure is sure to delight readers of all ages.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Roald Dahl)
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a classic children’s novel that follows the story of Charlie Bucket, a poor boy who wins a golden ticket to tour the mysterious and magical chocolate factory of Willy Wonka.
Nancy Drew (Carolyn Keene)
Nancy Drew is a teenage detective who solves mysteries with her intelligence and bravery, often with the help of her friends. These mystery novels are engaging and suspenseful, with twists and turns that will keep young readers on the edge of their seats.
Stuart Little (E.B. White)
Stuart Little tells the story of a small, adventurous mouse named Stuart Little who lives with his human family in New York City. It Promotes courage, adventure, and finding one’s place through a small mouse’s big heart. It celebrates individuality and resilience.
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing (Judy Blume)
It follows the story of Peter Hatcher, a nine-year-old boy, who struggles with his pesky younger brother, Fudge. The book captures the humor and drama of sibling rivalry, as Peter navigates the challenges of living with a sibling who always seems to get into trouble.
💡For more timeless favorites, explore our full roundup of classic books for kids.
Best Books for 3rd Grade Boys
These selections pop up often when parents search for books for 3rd grade boys, but they work beautifully for anyreader who loves humor, adventure, or fast-paced stories. Third graders often enjoy characters who take risks, solve problems, or make them laugh — and these books hit those notes well.
The Last Kids on Earth (Max Brallier)
Illustrated, energetic, and filled with monster-fighting fun. Great for kids who prefer action and humor.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Jeff Kinney)
A go-to series for reluctant readers. The diary format and funny doodles make it easy to stick with.
Ghost (Jason Reynolds)
A realistic, sports-centered story with quick pacing and a relatable main character.
The Wild Robot (Peter Brown)
A mix of adventure, survival, and imagination that pulls in readers who like big-picture thinking.
The Terrible Two (Jory John & Mac Barnett)
Silly, creative pranks and clever problem-solving make this one a fan favorite.
The Dragonet Prophecy (Tui T. Sutherland)
Perfect for kids who want a fantasy world with tons of action and rich world-building.
The Puzzling World of Winston Breen (Eric Berlin)
For readers who love clues, codes, and figuring things out on their own.
Best Books for 3rd Grade Girls
These books for 3rd grade girls reflect common searches but are truly great for any reader who enjoys stories about friendship, courage, family, and personal growth.
A Boy Called Bat (Elana K. Arnold)
Gentle humor and a warm family story make this a comforting, relatable pick.
Wishtree (Katherine Applegate)
A thoughtful story about kindness, belonging, and standing up for others.
The One and Only Ivan (Katherine Applegate)
Emotionally rich and beautifully written, perfect for readers drawn to meaningful stories.
Front Desk (Kelly Yang)
A fast-moving story about a strong, determined girl navigating school, friendships, and fairness.
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street (Karina Yan Glaser)
A cozy, family-centered story full of community, teamwork, and heart.
The Princess in Black (Shannon Hale)
Funny and empowering — great for early chapter book readers.
The Girl Who Drank the Moon (Kelly Barnhill)
A magical, lyrical story best suited for advanced 3rd graders ready for longer fantasy.
Best Book Series for 3rd Graders
Many third graders love the comfort of returning to familiar characters. These 3rd grade book series are engaging, accessible, and perfect for readers who want momentum and consistency.
Magic Tree House (Mary Pope Osborne)
A classic beginner series with short chapters and time-traveling adventures.
Geronimo Stilton (Elisabetta Dami)
Colorful fonts, maps, and fast-paced storytelling keep kids turning pages.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Jeff Kinney)
A top pick for reluctant readers thanks to humor and illustrated storytelling.
The Princess in Black (Shannon Hale)
Short, funny books that help early readers build confidence.
The Last Kids on Earth (Max Brallier)
A hybrid illustrated series full of action and comedy.
Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling)
Many advanced 3rd graders begin Book 1 as their first big fantasy novel.
Wings of Fire (Tui T. Sutherland) — starting with The Dragonet Prophecy
A strong choice for kids who love magical creatures and epic adventures.
Best Mystery, Adventure & Fantasy Books for 3rd Graders
These books appeal to readers who crave excitement, puzzles, imaginative worlds, or fast-paced plots. They work well for kids who like to be surprised or drawn into a new universe.
The Secret Keepers (Trenton Lee Stewart)
A suspenseful story with hidden clues and big twists.
The Puzzling World of Winston Breen (Eric Berlin)
Perfect for budding detectives who love solving riddles and codes.
The Dragonet Prophecy (Tui T. Sutherland)
Rich fantasy world-building and plenty of action.
The Wild Robot (Peter Brown)
Adventure plus big ideas about nature, technology, and belonging.
The Last Kids on Earth (Max Brallier)
Action-forward, funny, and ideal for reluctant readers.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (J.K. Rowling)
Classic entry point to fantasy for upper-elementary readers.
The Girl Who Drank the Moon (Kelly Barnhill)
A lyrical, magical story best for advanced readers.
The Parker Inheritance (Varian Johnson)
A mystery rooted in history, community, and problem-solving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Books for 3rd Graders
Most third graders read books in the J/K/L/M range (Fountas & Pinnell) or around 400–650 Lexile, but reading levels vary widely. The best fit is a book your child can read with confidence while still feeling challenged.
Many teachers recommend 20–30 minutes of independent reading per day. Shorter bursts throughout the day work just as well.
Yes — graphic novels are great for comprehension, vocabulary, and motivation. Series like Geronimo Stilton or Last Kids on Earth help build stamina and confidence.
If a child struggles with more than 5 difficult words per page, loses track of the plot, or feels frustrated, the book may be better saved for later.
Absolutely — as long as the themes and content feel comfortable. Interest level often matters more than grade level.
Adventure, realistic fiction, mysteries, funny books, and early fantasy all tend to be big hits. Variety helps kids figure out what they love.
More Great Books For Kids
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
