By the time kids are in 3rd grade, they are reading independently and more complex stories. Their world to literature has finally started to open up. Therefore, it is the best time to introduce them to a genre of different books which are easy to read and captivates their love for reading. In light of this, I have put together a list of the best chapter books for 3rd graders that my kids enjoyed.
Kids will love to read if the experience is fun and engaging. However, if the book fails to keep their attention due to the reading level or subject matter, they can lose interest. Because of this, I tried to compile a list of book series on a variety of subjects, including sports, mythology, comedy, adventure, mystery and so on. . In case, your child is a reluctant reader, begin by picking out books that they can relate to. For example, introduce them to Jake Maddox books if they love sports. Similarly, if they like comedy Missy Piggle Wiggle and the whatever cure will tickle their funny bones. Therefore, find out what captivates their attention ?
If they ask a question, suggest books that will give them a more comprehensive answer than you can. In fact, remember that they are not expected to read classics all of the time. After all, we want to instill in them a love of reading.
BEST CHAPTER BOOKS FOR 3rd GRADE
Percy Jackson and the Olympians
It is a wonderful series by Rick Riordan. The main character is a boy named Percy Jackson, child of the Greek God, Poseidon. The books are about his adventures with his friends, all including Greek mythology.
Harry Potter
It is a very popular series of fantasy novels written by JK Rowling. The book chronicles the lives of the young wizard Harry Potter and his friends Hermione and Ron , all of whom are students at the school of wizards called Hogwarts. The story revolves around Harry and his friends adventure and struggle to uncover the truth about his parents mysterious deaths.
Geronimo Stilton
The series are autobiographical adventure stories of the title character, a mouse who lives in New Mouse City on Mouse Island and has human characteristics. He works as a journalist and editor for the fictional newspaper The Rodent’s Gazette. Geronimo is a nervous, mild-mannered mouse who would like nothing better than to live a quiet life, but he keeps getting involved in faraway adventures with his sister Thea, cousin Trap, and favorite nephew Benjamin. The fun illustrations and humorous stories are perfect for avid and reluctant readers.
Cam Jansen
They are mystery themed book series by David A. Adler. The main character, Cam Jansen, is a fifth grader who tries to solve mysteries with her photographic memory. They are perfect beginner chapter books for young readers.
Jake Maddox
The series are the perfect book for young readers who love sports. Written by Jake Maddox, the stories are about people trying to overcome sports challenges. The book teaches kids to work hard, be a good friend and team mate and eventually good things will happen. These books always end in a cliffhanger and are fun to read.
Missy Piggle Wiggle and the Whatever Cure
The series is about a witty woman, Mrs Piggle Wiggle, who lives in a neighborhood where the children have bad habits. She has a chest full of secret cures for these rude kids in her magical upside down house. Kids who turn into an Answer-Backer, or a Slow-Eater-Tiny-Bite-Taker, or decide to be the Won’t-Pick-Up-Toys-Picker or an Interrupter, Mrs Piggle wiggle has a cure for everyone. Young readers would be enthralled by Mrs Piggle Wiggle tricks and cures and would be bursting in laughter.
Zack Files
It’s a story about a 12 year boy named, Zach and his paranormal adventures and how his friends help him set things straight when he gets into trouble with his paranormal activity.
The Weirder School
It is a hilarious book series written by Dan Gutman, which would have your kids giggling and laughing while they read. The main character is a boy named A.J who doesn’t like school. The story is about the weird and wacky adventures he and his friends have at Ella Mentry School. It is a silly series for beginning readers
Who Was Book Series
The books tells the stories of significant historical figures, including artists, scientists, and world leaders. The series also include incredible stories of important places and events.
The Tales of Despereaux
It is a fantasy book written by Kate DiCamillo. about a small mouse trying to have adventures and is in love with Princess Pea. A princess trying to have friends. A slow-witted serving girl trying to find a family and has an impossible wish. A rat that doesn’t want to be exiled. All the characters embark on a journey that ultimately leads them into each other’s life and in the end, all the adventures tie together.
Box Car Children Book Series
The book contains the stories of four orphan children, age 14 to 6, who are curious, adventurous, and resourceful and live in a boxcar in the forest. They are running away from their grandfather whom they have never met but believe to be cruel. Eventually, the book ends on a happy note when the kids are reunited with their wealthy grandfather, who turns out to be very kind. Each book in the series revolve around different mysteries which the boxcar children solve. These books showcase an example of childrens who face challenges but with hard work and respect solve them without much adult supervision. A must read to stimulate young minds.
From the mixed-up files of Mrs Basil E. Frankweiler
It is an award winning book which tells the story of two young kids who ran away from their home to live a comfortable life in the New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. But soon there adventurous life is entangles in an art historical mystery. The author’s attention to detail make it a very satisfying read.
Sideways stories from Wayside School
The book series contains thirty silly and funny stories about the children and teachers at Wayside School. Wayside School was built sideways.There was an architectural mistake during building the school. It was supposed to be only one story high, with thirty classrooms all in a row. Instead it its 30 stories tall with one classroom stacked on top of the other. But, the children love having a sideway school as they have an extra-large playground. The clever and hilarious stories would definitely make young readers laugh out loud.
Crenshaw
It’s a California young reader medal nominated book, written by Katherine Applegate. It is about a boy named Jackson and his imaginary friend, Crenshaw, a cat. Jackson and his family are struggling to make ends meet with no food and money left. Crenshaw a large and outspoken imaginary cat comes into Jackson life to help him during this difficult time . It is a heartwarming story about compassion and friendship.
Additionally, there are some more book recommendations for different age groups.
- Best Books for 5 year olds
- Best Books for 6 and 7 year olds
- Must Read Books for 9 year olds
- Books on Kindness
- Mother’s Day books for kids
Last but not least, what are some of your child’s favorite books ? I’d love to hear your recommendations for the best chapter books for boys and girls in 3rd grade. Finally, please share your ideas for inspiring young readers.
Till then, Happy Reading !
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