Books for Elementary School Readers

Not sure what your child should be reading next? Check out one college student’s list of favorite books for elementary school readers. All reading levels provided by Scholastic.

1. Peppermints in the Parlor by Barbara Brookes Wallace. I first read this book when I was in the third grade, and I reread it countless times over the years. It’s an exciting mystery set in a cobweb-filled mansion; the orphaned Emily must unravel the secrets of Sugar Hill Hall before it’s too late. This book is appropriate for grades 3-5. 
2. The Alice series by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor. Alice is the most relatable character I’ve ever read about. For every problem that I had as a kid, Alice went through a similar situation, and it always helped me to read about how she dealt with it. This lengthy series follows Alice through high school graduation and beyond, but the first three books are set in elementary school and are appropriate for grades 3-5.
3. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson. This classic from the 70s is still taught in schools today. When I read it in the sixth grade, I felt an immediate connection with both of the main characters. It’s a timeless story about a child’s greatest gift: imagination. This book is appropriate for grades 4-8.
4. Dynamite Dinah by Claudia Mills. Dinah is a spunky, mischievous fifth grader who, in the midst of dealing with some disappointments, ends up creating some problems for herself by being a bit of a show-off. Dinah is able to change her behavior with great effort and with the help of the people who care about her. This book is best for students in grades 3-5. 
5. The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. These books are famous and popular for a reason! This fantasy series teaches many important lessons about love, loss, courage, and empathy, not to mention vocabulary. It was an integral part of my childhood and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Your child can get started tackling this series now, as the first book is appropriate for grades 3-7.

Allison Green
Boston Tutoring Services