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The Best Books for 3rd Graders

Ever struggle to find the best books for your 3rd graders? Whether you're planning for literature circles, read-aloud, or independent reading, it can be challenging to find quality novels with engaging plots that support deep conversation and critical thinking about the text. That's why I compiled this book list! It includes the best chapter books and graphic novels for 8 and 9-year-olds to enjoy.

Books for third grade readers

Whether you are a first time teacher preparing your classroom library or trying to find a great book for your own child, these 20 novels are amazing reads for your third-grade students.

To help you determine which books are the best fit for your class, I shared a short summary of the plot. I also shared links to the trifold novel study pack to help save you prep time. I know your third graders will love these great stories! 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. While it doesn't cost you anymore to purchase books via the links provided, I earn a small commission from purchases.

What you'll find on this page:

My Favorite Novels to Read with 3rd Graders

1. How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell 

This popular book tells the story of a boy who refuses to lose a bet, How to Eat Fried Worms is a novel sure to capture the attention of those reluctant readers in your class, especially the boys. However, when he gets stuck trying to eat more than a dozen worms, he realizes there has to be a better way! This leads him to learn all sorts of cooking methods to make his task a little less disgusting…maybe.

As a teacher, I love that this story offers so many opportunities to discuss important reading comprehension skills including cause and effect, problem and solution, and character change across time.

Teach with How to Eat Fried Worms

2. Snot Stew by Bill Wallace

If you think this story is going to be about snot…guess again. Told from the first person point of view of a cat, this story is a unique and engaging view of the world from a non-human perspective.

Snot Stew is the tale of two stray kittens adopted into a family and how they acclimate to this new environment without their momma. As they become accustomed to their new home, their relationship undergoes dramatic changes until an emergency brings them back together.

Great for inferring, students love using the text clues to figure out what common household objects the feline narrator is describing. The story is also a great introduction to point of view and how it impacts the reader's understanding of the text.

An easy read from the author of A Dog Called Kitty, this book is excellent for the animal lovers in your class.

Teach with Snot Stew

3. My Father's Dragon by Ruth Styles Gannett

My Father's Dragon is a fantasy novel about a young boy who runs away to rescue a baby dragon. With vibrant details and some crazy adventures, this book captures the imagination of young readers and takes them along on Elmer's journey.

Danger, excitement, and heroic efforts are all important components of this story, which is presented as a story told to the narrator by his father many years ago. Using only everyday objects from his pack, Elmer single-handedly disarms the many dangerous animals of Wild Island on his quest.

My Father's Dragon

The book has beautiful illustrations, which help readers visualize the events of the story, and your students will love reading about Elmer's brilliant ways of outsmarting the animals throughout. Perfect for teaching character traits and sequencing, this story is truly a gem that will stick with your readers for years to come.

Teach with My.Father's Dragon

4. Stone Fox by John Reynolds Gardiner

I would be remiss if I didn't start with a little disclaimer for this one. Keep tissues close by near the end. You will cry…probably hard. It is truly one of the saddest third-grade books on this list. However, this classic book remains one of my favorite novels for third graders.

Stone Fox is a beautifully written story that enthralls readers in Little Willy's attempts to save his grandfather's farm along with some help from his faithful pup, Searchlight. Little Willy is such a likable character, and your students will be cheering him on as he attempts the impossible.

Stone Fox Novel Unit

This novel is truly a literary gem, and it makes a fantastic winter read-aloud. I can read it over and over with students and (despite knowing the end) still be brought to tears each time by Gardiner's compelling story.

Perfect for inclusion in a cross-curricular unit about the Iditarod in March, you can make so many great connections to math and social studies with this book. Alternatively, you might use this book in conjunction with the true story of Balto.

Teach with Stone Fox

5. The Littles by John Peterson

Imagine there were tiny people living in your house without you even knowing it. They used your things, borrowed your scraps, and made themselves right at home despite the numerous dangers the typical house presents when you're tiny. That is the plot of The Littles.

This fantasy novel is great for young readers because it is engaging and has a clear, well-developed plot. There are many opportunities to discuss problems and solutions as the Littles work to navigate the world at their size. Plus, it is a great novel for working through other critical comprehension skills, as well.

Considered by many to be a must-read classic, I've included it on my list because it is the first of a whole series of books about this miniature family. I love when there are multiple books because it means I've opened a whole new reading list for students just by introducing them to this one novel.

Teach with The Littles

6. Geronimo Stilton #1: Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye

Unlike many of the other books on this list, the Geronimo Stilton series is a bit less text-heavy. However, don't let that deter you from giving them a try! These books are packed with adventure, humor, and interesting facts.

In the first book, Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye, readers follow Geronimo as he tries to solve the mystery of a missing treasure. Full of twists and turns, this book is perfect for reluctant readers or those that are looking for a fast-paced read with lots of visuals.

This series is full of adventure stories so if your students enjoy this book, be sure to check out the rest of the chapter book series!

Buy the book: Geronimo Stilton #1

7. Freckle Juice by Judy Blume

This is the first of a couple of Judy Blume books you'll find on this list. She's really got some great choices that are perfect for third-grade readers.

Freckle Juice Novel for 3rd graders

Freckle Juice is a hilarious realistic fiction novel about a boy, Andrew, who wants to have freckles just like his classmate. Andrew can think of so many reasons having freckles would make his life easier. For example, his mom would never even know if his neck was dirty! When Andrew asks Nicky where his freckles came from, a classmate overhears and offers a special freckle juice recipe…at the low cost of just 50 cents.

Of course, Andrew buys it and makes a batch of freckle juice for himself. I won't give away the whole story, but suffice to say things get extra hilarious from that point on.

Your students will love this totally relatable novel, and you'll love the numerous opportunities to teach skills like theme and problem & solution. Together, this makes it one of the great books for 3rd graders to enjoy during book clubs or lit circles.

Teach with Freckle Juice

8. Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner

This book was a favorite of mine as a child, and now I love sharing it with my students. This classic story of orphans on the run is guaranteed to capture the reader's attention.

Students will love reading about the adventures of Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny as they create a home for themselves in an old boxcar they discover in the woods. Trying hard to avoid being discovered by their grandfather (whom they've not met), the kids cook, clean, and work to earn money all on their own.

The Boxcar Children Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary

The book has a surprise ending, and as the first book in the series, it is a great opportunity to get your struggling or reluctant readers hooked on an easy-to-read series that will expose them to lots of great vocabulary. This book is truly a must-have in every third-grade classroom library.

Teach with Boxcar Children

9. Third Grade Angels by Jerry Spinelli

Jerry Spinelli is an amazing author, and this book is perfect for your third-grade students. A prequel to the popular story Fourth Grade Rats, this is the story of George's third-grade year. Nicknamed Suds, George is desperate to be the first to win his teacher's coveted behavior award.

George struggles with what it means to have good behavior and whether he has to behave ALL the time to earn the award. George's character and challenges are easily relatable to students.

A great fall read-aloud for third grade, this story is also perfect for book clubs or as an independent reading opportunity later in the school year.

Teach with Third Grade Angels

10. Fudge-a-mania by Judy Blume

After discovering his parents' plan to have their family spend summer vacation with his enemy, Sheila, Peter Hatcher is sure summer is ruined. His little brother, however, is elated.

Things take a turn for the better for Peter when his parents offer to let him bring his best friend with him, but it isn't long before he's spending more time with Shiela than him.

While the storyline is pretty tame, much like life most of the time, the relatable characters and situations are perfect for 3rd-grade readers. The students love predicting what will happen after discovering Sheila and Peter have become “stepcousins” by the end of the story.

Another fabulous novel by Judy Blume is the third book in the Fudge series. While all the books in the series are great, I really love this one. It is a great way to introduce the topic of protagonist vs. antagonist and how this isn't always the bad guy vs. the good guy.

Teach with Fudge-a-mania

11. Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle by Betty MacDonald

The book is a collection of short stories about the title character, an eccentric woman who knows just how to deal with children's bad habits. From kids that won't take baths to those that are always losing their temper, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle has a cure for everything.

Your students will love hearing about the wild antics that take place in each story and you can use the book as a springboard for discussing character traits, problem-solving, and more.

If you're looking for a feel-good read, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle is a good choice!

Buy the book: Mrs. Piggle Wiggle

12. Bunnicula by Deborah & James Howe

Told from the perspective of the family dog, Harold, Bunnicula is the story of what happened after the family found a baby rabbit at the movie theater during a screening of Dracula.

When Chester (the family's cat) notices something strange about the new addition, he decides the rabbit must be a vampire and tries to alert the Monroe family.

Another really funny book, this novel is great for Halloween or any time. The engaging storyline and unique perspective of the narrator make it a perfect book for those students who are into vampires and other supernatural happenings.

The text offers a number of great opportunities to infer and draw conclusions, which is a challenging skill for many 3rd graders.

Teach with Bunnicula

13. The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling

Imagine everything you touched turned to chocolate…

Sounds pretty awesome, right? That's what John Midas thought, too, until things started to go horribly wrong.

This delightful fantasy novel is a twist on the traditional story of the Midas touch. Even reluctant readers can't help but be pulled into the story as they connect with John and his transition from enjoyment to frustration with his newfound talent.

A great book for cause and effect and prediction, The Chocolate Touch is a well-loved novel for a reason. I guarantee your kids will be begging to get back to reading when you use this book in your novel study or book club.

Hint: It is perfect for February lit circles when paired with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Chocolate Fever!

Teach with The Chocolate Touch

14. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary

There is so much great realistic fiction for third graders. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 is the perfect example of a high-quality, engaging novel that allows students to connect with characters.

The story is focused around a girl named Ramona, who faces many of the same challenges with parents and peers your students might be facing in their lives. From bullying and the pressure to balancing the responsibilities of home life, this book covers it all.

The story is great for making text-to-self connections and comparing characters. I highly recommend you add it to your list of books for 3rd graders to enjoy in your classroom library.

Teach with Ramona Quimby, Age 8

15. Flora & Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo

My list wouldn't be complete without a graphic novel, and Flora & Ulysses is the perfect graphic novel for your third graders.

Written by award-winning author Kate DiCamillo, this is the story of the many zany adventures of a superhero squirrel and the girl who saved him.

Flora & Ulysses

Students love this silly adventure story, and it is a great introduction to Kate DiCamillo if students haven't read her work previously.

While ideal for reluctant readers due to the many detailed illustrations, even your advanced readers will enjoy this light, fun-to-read book.

Teach with Flora & Ulysses

16. Esio Trot by Roald Dahl

A love story with a twist, this is the story of Mr. Hoppy and his plans to win the adoration of Ms. Silver via her beloved tortoise (Alfie). After telling Mr. Hoppy she wished she knew how to help Alfie grow larger, he concocts a wacky plan to win her over. Your students will love discussing this hare-brained plot and predicting whether it will work. (Spoiler: It does!)

With vivid description and silliness that only Dahl can bring to a children's novel, this story is overall an easy read and fan favorite among books for 3rd graders. There are so many great opportunities to discuss character traits and practice visualization, inferring, and more.

While the text has some made-up words (as do nearly all Dahl's books), the plotline draws readers in and encourages them to overcome these challenges because the story is just that good.

Teach with Esio Trot

17. Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown

After being flattened by a bulletin board, Stanley wakes up to discover he is FLAT! While this predicament has its downsides, the positive is he can be rolled up, easily mailed anywhere, and even used as a kite on a windy day. His situation also makes him a hero when he thwarts some art thieves.

Flat Stanley - books for 3rd graders

This original Flat Stanley book is a quick, easy read that you can connect with so many cross-curricular projects.

Perfect for a beginning-of-year book club or a literature circle with your lower readers, this story offers opportunities to teach many important reading comprehension skills in an engaging format that lends itself to the discussion.

Teach with Flat Stanley: His Original Adventure

18. Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar

If your students are looking for a funny book to read, consider Louis Sachar's Sideways Stories from Wayside School.

The book is a collection of short stories that all take place in the same wacky school where things never seem to go right. From a teacher that turns students into apples to boy who gets sent home early for saving the day and being a good friend, your students will be laughing at the silly situations the characters find themselves in.

Each story can be read on its own or as part of the larger collection. This book is perfect for a classroom read-aloud or for independent reading. This was always the first story I read to my own class.

Teach with Sideways Stories from Wayside School

Buy the book: Sideways Stories from Wayside School

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Sideways Stories from Wayside School Novel Study

19. Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

This story is was written by Laura Ingalls Wilder and is the semi-true adventure of her family's move to Wisconsin when she was a young girl. Throughout the story, Laura describes the work she does to help her Ma and Pa and how the family always finds time to play together.

From butchering their own meat to gathering wood for the fire, the Ingalls must do everything they need for survival. As the book works through each season, the work the family does changes. Planting, making butter, and more.

Students are often fascinated by life long before there were grocery stores everywhere. Great for comparing the past and present, which is a commonly studied social studies unit, this story goes into detail about life during the 1800s. This is the first of four books in the Little House series.

Teach with Little House in the Big Woods

20. Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark by Mary Pope Osborne

The Magic Tree House series is one of my favorites. It has so many great books for 3rd graders to enjoy and learn from. We actually use it for a bedtime read-aloud with my 6-year old. However, it is truly a great series for independent readers in third grade, too.

The stories revolve around a sister and brother, Jack and Annie, and their travels in a magic tree house. In this first book, they travel back to the time of the dinosaurs on a mysterious quest. In addition to the great story, readers also learn lots of facts about dinosaurs through Jack's research during their travels.

Great for teaching facts and opinions and other great reading skills, this book is a gateway to a whole series of great reading for your students.

Teach with Little House in the Big Woods

21. The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks

What kid hasn't dreamed about their toys coming to life? The fact that this fantasy is so relatable is part of what makes this one of the great books for 3rd graders!

Indian in the Cupboard

When Omri receives a cupboard for his birthday, he decides it is the perfect place to lock his plastic Indian toy. The next thing he knows his plastic toy is a walking, talking man. After finding out his name is Little Bear, Omri works to help him set up a place to live and food.

Of course, no story is complete without a little drama…and Omri's comes in the form of a cowboy named Boone. While the two don't get along at first, the men soon find their commonalities.

Ultimately, Omri gets an unfortunate surprise when the key that makes the magic cupboard work disappears. Will the cowboy and Indian ever be able to go back home?

This is one of my favorite books for 3rd graders when teaching comparing and contrasting or visualizing.

Teach with The Indian in the Cupboard

22. Stuart Little by E.B. White

Many students have seen the movies that go along with this series, which makes the book the perfect transition to help students that struggle with comprehension.

Stuart is a mouse born into a human family. (Don't ask me how that happened…) His family lives in New York City, and the story chronicles his adventures around Manhattan and all the dangers of being small in a big, big world.

Their familiarity with the plotline makes digging deep into important reading strategies easier, and comparison between the book and movie helps students build real-world connections.

Vocabulary and context clues are also a great focus for this fabulous classic.

Teach with Stuart Little

23. The Best School Year Ever by Barbara Robinson

Looking for funny books for 3rd graders to engage with? Look no further!

While you might be familiar with The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, The Best School Year Ever is the second in the series about the Herdman family, a group that regularly finds trouble no matter where they go. The narrator is a classmate of one of the Herdman children and shares all the rumors and legends that surround the family.

Throughout the school year, anything that goes wrong is blamed on one Herdman kid or another, but when the narrator is asked to write a compliment about each kid in class, it is discovered that maybe the Herdmans aren't so bad after all.

A great book for discussing finding the good in others, this story has lots of great humor and is such a fun read.

This series is so funny and engaging I've also included the third book, The Best Halloween Ever, in my favorite Halloween Books for Upper Elementary & Middle School.)

Teach with The Best School Year Ever

24. Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl

While I love many of Dahl's books, this particular story is a great read for your learners to explore character traits and visual imagery. 

The story follows Mr. Fox and his efforts to outsmart Farmer Bean and the other farmers in the area that want to catch him. Dahl's use of descriptive language brings each scene to life, making it easy for readers to picture everything that is happening.

One particular character trait that can be focused on is Mr. Fox's cleverness. He is always one step ahead of the farmers, and readers will love seeing him outsmart them again and again.

Teach with Fantastic Mr. Fox

Buy the book: Fantastic Mr. Fox

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: Fantastic Mr. Fox Novel Study

25. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

Your animal-loving students with The Wild Robot!

After a shipwreck, Roz the robot washes ashore on an uninhabited island. At first, she is only concerned with her own survival, but as time goes on, she starts to feel lonely. When a family of creatures finds her, Roz begins to learn about companionship with your animal-loving students with The Wild Robot!

After a shipwreck, Roz the robot washes ashore on an uninhabited island. At first, she is only concerned with her own survival, but as time goes on, she starts to feel lonely. When a family of creatures finds her, Roz begins to learn about companionship and discovers a new side of herself.

A former Global Read Aloud book, The Wild Robot is a good book to discuss character traits, emotions, and more with your third-grade class.

Don't forget to check out the corresponding lesson plans and materials for the book!

Teach with The Wild Robot

Buy the book: The Wild Robot

Novel Study & Lesson Materials: The Wild Robot Novel Study

Find the perfect novel for your third graders to enjoy!

Best novels for 3rd Graders

While it can be challenging to find quality novels with engaging plots that support deep conversation and critical thinking about text that will appeal to a broad range of readers, my hope is that this list will help guide you in the right direction.

All twenty books on this comprehensive list are quality literature that your 3rd graders will love, whether you decide to use them as a read-aloud or incorporate them as you plan your next novel unit.

3rd Grade Novel Ideas

Ready to Plan Your 3rd Grade Novel Unit?

I hope this list has sparked some ideas for books to add to your classroom library and your next novel unit.

While you're here, grab my free novel study planning roadmap to get step-by-step support to plan a high-quality literature unit for your third-grade students whether you're in the classroom or homeschooling.

Whether you're a planning your first novel study or just looking for new ideas, you'll love this great tool.

Check out my Book Lists for Other Grades Below

20 great chapter books 2nd grade students will love
Novels perfect for your 4th grade readers. Get ideas for your next book club or literature circle and find new books to add to your classroom library.
Best Novels for 5th Graders
Books for 6th Graders

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