From classic novels to engaging non-fiction, our selection will help your child develop a lifelong love of reading. Browse now and discover the perfect book for your 6th grader!
Reading is an essential skill that opens up new worlds and adventures for sixth graders. At this age, kids are transitioning from elementary to middle school and are starting to develop their own interests and preferences. Reading not only improves their vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills, but it also helps them explore new ideas and perspectives.
The best books for sixth graders are those that not only entertain but also educate and inspire.Here are some of the top picks for sixth graders:
Table of Contents
1. Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Wonder by R.J. Palacio is an exceptional book that is highly recommended for 6th graders. The story revolves around a young boy named August Pullman, who has a rare facial deformity. The book beautifully illustrates how August navigates the challenges of fitting in with his peers while dealing with the daily struggles that come with his condition.
The book Wonder is not only inspiring but also provides a valuable lesson on empathy, kindness, and the importance of acceptance. It teaches readers about the power of words and how they can affect others, especially those who are different from us.
The characters in the book are well-developed and relatable, making it easy for readers to empathize with August and the other characters. The book also touches on various themes such as friendship, bullying, family, and self-acceptance, which are relevant to 6th graders.
Wonder is a perfect book for 6th graders as it is engaging, emotional, and educational. It can help students learn valuable lessons and provide them with an opportunity to discuss important topics that are often overlooked. The book has received critical acclaim and has become a beloved classic among young readers.
2. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
“A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle is an engaging and thought-provoking book for 6th graders. It tells the story of Meg Murry, a 13-year-old girl who embarks on a journey through time and space to save her scientist father who has gone missing. Along with her younger brother Charles Wallace and friend Calvin, Meg travels through a tesseract, a wrinkle in time, to reach other worlds and confront the evil forces that are holding her father captive.
The book explores themes of love, courage, and the power of individuality against conformity. Through her vivid descriptions of other worlds and characters, L’Engle encourages readers to question the status quo and think independently. The novel also delves into scientific concepts such as time travel, relativity, and quantum physics, introducing these ideas to young readers in an approachable and accessible way.
3. Schooled by Gordon Korman
“Schooled” by Gordon Korman is an engaging and humorous book that is perfect for 6th graders who love to read. The story centers around Capricorn Anderson, a 13-year-old boy who has been homeschooled by his hippie grandmother on a farm in rural California. When his grandmother has an accident, Capricorn is forced to attend public school for the first time.
As Capricorn adjusts to the new environment, he quickly learns that middle school is nothing like what he’s used to. The book follows his struggles to fit in with the other students, who see him as a weird outsider due to his unconventional upbringing. But Capricorn’s unique perspective also allows him to see the school’s problems with fresh eyes, and he becomes an unexpected force for positive change.
4. Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls is a beloved classic of children’s literature that is perfect for 6th graders to enjoy. This heartwarming tale tells the story of a young boy named Billy who longs for a pair of hunting dogs of his own. Despite his family’s limited means, Billy saves up enough money to buy two pups, which he names Old Dan and Little Ann. The trio embarks on many exciting adventures together in the Ozark Mountains, including hunting for raccoons and participating in a championship coon hunt.
Through Billy’s adventures with his dogs, readers will learn about the power of determination, loyalty, and love. This book is a poignant coming-of-age story that touches on themes such as friendship, loss, and the importance of family. It’s a great choice for 6th graders who are looking for an engaging and emotionally resonant read.
5. When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead is a captivating and thought-provoking book that is perfect for 6th graders who are looking for a challenging yet enjoyable read. Set in the 1970s in New York City, the book tells the story of Miranda, a sixth-grade girl who receives a series of mysterious notes that seem to predict the future. As Miranda tries to unravel the mystery of the notes, she must also navigate the complexities of growing up, including friendships, family dynamics, and the changing world around her.
The book is full of twists and turns that will keep readers engaged and guessing until the very end. Stead’s writing is both sophisticated and accessible, making it a great choice for 6th graders who are ready for more advanced reading material. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery are sure to resonate with readers of all ages.
6. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead is a captivating and thought-provoking book that is perfect for 6th graders who are looking for a challenging yet enjoyable read. Set in the 1970s in New York City, the book tells the story of Miranda, a sixth-grade girl who receives a series of mysterious notes that seem to predict the future. As Miranda tries to unravel the mystery of the notes, she must also navigate the complexities of growing up, including friendships, family dynamics, and the changing world around her.
The book is full of twists and turns that will keep readers engaged and guessing until the very end. Stead’s writing is both sophisticated and accessible, making it a great choice for 6th graders who are ready for more advanced reading material. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery are sure to resonate with readers of all ages.
7. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is one of the best books for 6th graders and the first installment in the Harry Potter series, written by British author J.K. Rowling. The book introduces readers to the magical world of Harry Potter, a young orphan boy who learns he is a wizard and begins his journey of discovery and adventure.
As Harry navigates his way through his first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, he discovers new friends, powerful enemies, and the truth about his past. Along the way, he must solve puzzles, face dangerous challenges, and learn to harness his magical abilities.
8. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins is a thrilling and captivating book that is perfect for 6th graders who are interested in dystopian fiction. Set in a future society called Panem, which is divided into twelve districts, the book follows the story of 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a televised event where one boy and one girl from each district are chosen to fight to the death in a controlled arena.
As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into the intense action and suspense as Katniss must fight for survival against the other tributes, all while grappling with her own conflicted feelings and navigating the complex social and political dynamics of the Games. Along the way, she forms alliances, confronts enemies, and ultimately discovers the power of hope and human connection.
9. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
“The Lightning Thief” is a thrilling adventure novel written by Rick Riordan that is perfect for 6th graders who love books filled with action, magic, and mythology. The book follows the story of Percy Jackson, a young boy who discovers that he is actually a demigod, the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea.
As Percy navigates the dangerous world of gods and monsters, he must also solve the mystery of the stolen lightning bolt of Zeus, which has been blamed on him. With the help of his new friends, Annabeth and Grover, Percy sets out on a quest to find the real thief and clear his name before a war between the gods breaks out.
10. Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell
“Island of the Blue Dolphins” by Scott O’Dell is a beloved classic book for 6th graders that tells the story of a young girl named Karana. She lives on an island off the coast of California, where her tribe, the Aleuts, and the Russian fur traders have left her people stranded. Karana is left behind with her younger brother, Ramo, and they must learn to survive on their own. However, when Ramo is tragically killed by wild dogs, Karana must fend for herself and find a way to survive on the island.
Throughout the book, Karana faces many challenges, including harsh weather conditions, dangerous animals, and loneliness. Despite these challenges, she learns to adapt to her surroundings and becomes a skilled hunter and gatherer. She also befriends an unlikely companion, a wild dog whom she names Rontu.
11. Matilda by Roald Dahl
“Matilda” by Roald Dahl is a classic children’s book that is perfect for 6th graders. The story follows the adventures of a young girl named Matilda Wormwood, who is exceptionally intelligent and loves to read books. Unfortunately, her parents and her school principal do not appreciate her intelligence and often mistreat her.
Despite this, Matilda uses her intelligence and magical powers to help her friends and punish those who deserve it. She also finds a kindred spirit in her teacher, Miss Honey, who encourages her love of learning and helps her stand up to the bullies in her life.
12. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
Bridge to Terabithia is a heartwarming and moving book for 6th graders written by Katherine Paterson. It tells the story of Jess, a 12-year-old boy who dreams of being the fastest runner in his school. One day, he meets Leslie, a new girl in town who is also interested in running, and the two quickly become close friends.
Together, Jess and Leslie create a magical world in the woods called Terabithia, where they reign as king and queen and where their imaginations run wild. They go on adventures and encounter mythical creatures, all while dealing with the challenges and difficulties of growing up.
12. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” is a classic fantasy novel written by C.S. Lewis that has captured the imaginations of readers of all ages for decades. It is the first book in the “Chronicles of Narnia” series and is a great choice for 6th-grade readers who love adventure and magic.
The story follows the adventures of four siblings – Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy – who are sent to live in the countryside during World War II. While playing hide-and-seek, Lucy discovers a magical wardrobe that transports her to the magical land of Narnia. She befriends a faun named Mr. Tumnus and learns that Narnia is under the spell of the evil White Witch, who has made it always winter but never Christmas.
13. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
“The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak is a historical fiction novel that is suitable for 6th graders who enjoy reading books about World War II. The story is set in Germany during the war and follows the life of a young girl named Liesel Meminger, who is sent to live with a foster family after her mother is unable to care for her. The book is narrated by Death, who provides a unique perspective on the events of the story.
Liesel quickly becomes fascinated by books and begins stealing them, which leads to her nickname as “The Book Thief.” Through her love of books, she develops a close relationship with her foster father, Hans, who teaches her how to read and helps her find comfort during the difficult times of the war. The story also explores the friendship between Liesel and a Jewish man named Max, who hides in their basement.
14. When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
“When You Reach Me” by Rebecca Stead is a thought-provoking and heartwarming book for 6th graders. The novel is set in New York City in the late 1970s and follows the story of a twelve-year-old girl named Miranda. Miranda’s life is turned upside down when she receives mysterious notes that seem to predict the future.
As Miranda tries to unravel the mystery behind the notes, she begins to realize that the future may not be as predictable as she thought. Along the way, she forms new friendships, discovers unexpected truths about her family and herself, and ultimately learns the power of empathy and kindness.
15. The Never-ending Story by Michael Ende
“The Neverending Story” by Michael Ende is an epic fantasy novel that is perfect for 6th graders who love to lose themselves in a fantastical world. The book tells the story of Bastian Balthazar Bux, a young boy who stumbles upon a mysterious bookshop and discovers a book called “The Neverending Story.” As Bastian begins to read the book, he is transported to the magical world of Fantastica, where he embarks on an incredible adventure that will test his courage, his wits, and his heart.
Throughout his journey, Bastian encounters a host of unforgettable characters, including the brave warrior Atreyu, the wise gnome Engywook, and the fierce dragon Falkor. Together, they must navigate the treacherous landscape of Fantastica, facing danger and adversity at every turn. As Bastian reads on, he realizes that the fate of this magical world rests on his shoulders, and he must summon all his courage to save it.
16. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman is a captivating and spooky story that is sure to appeal to 6th-grade readers who enjoy books that blend adventure, mystery, and the supernatural.
The story centers around a young boy named Bod who is orphaned and raised by the ghosts and other supernatural beings who reside in a graveyard. As Bod grows up, he learns about the secret world of the dead and the dangers that lurk in the shadows. With the help of his ghostly guardians, Bod must navigate this world and uncover the truth about his past and his place in it.
The Graveyard Book is a well-crafted and imaginative tale that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. It explores themes of identity, family, and the power of love and friendship, all while taking readers on a wild ride through a world of ghosts, ghouls, and other supernatural creatures.
17. The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi
“The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle” by Avi is a thrilling adventure novel that is perfect for 6th graders who love books with strong female protagonists, mystery, and suspense. The story is set in the 19th century and follows the journey of Charlotte Doyle, a 13-year-old girl who is traveling alone from England to America on a ship called the Seahawk.
Initially excited about the adventure, Charlotte quickly realizes that the ship’s crew is dangerous and unpredictable. She finds herself caught in the middle of a mutiny, with the crew accusing the captain of mistreating them. Charlotte is forced to choose sides, and as she navigates the treacherous waters of the ship and her own conscience, she discovers shocking truths about the crew, the captain, and even herself.
18. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson
Ella Enchanted is a captivating and imaginative book written by Gail Carson Levine that is perfect for 6th graders who love fantasy and adventure. The story follows Ella, a young girl who is cursed with the gift of obedience, which forces her to do anything anyone commands her to do. Ella’s journey is filled with magical creatures, royal balls, and daring rescues as she sets out to break the curse and take control of her own destiny.
Levine’s writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making it perfect for 6th graders who are transitioning to longer, more complex books. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is full of surprises and twists that will keep young readers hooked until the very end. The book also explores important themes such as individuality, self-acceptance, and the power of love, making it a great choice for sparking meaningful discussions in the classroom or at home.
19. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
Fablehaven is an exciting fantasy book for 6th graders written by Brandon Mull. The story follows the adventures of two siblings, Kendra and Seth, who are sent to stay with their grandparents at Fablehaven, a magical preserve for mythical creatures. As they explore the mysterious estate, they quickly discover that Fablehaven is not what it seems.
The book is filled with fascinating creatures like fairies, centaurs, and witches, each with their own unique abilities and personalities. The children learn that Fablehaven’s caretaker, their grandfather, has a deep responsibility to protect these creatures from harm, and as they soon discover, there are forces at work that threaten the safety of the preserve.
20. War Horse by Michael Morpurgo
“War Horse” by Michael Morpurgo is an award-winning historical fiction novel that is a great choice for 6th graders interested in books about war, animals, and adventure. The story is told from the perspective of a horse named Joey, who is sold to the British Army during World War I and is thrust into the chaos of the battlefield. Through Joey’s eyes, readers will experience the horror and bravery of war, as well as the bond between humans and animals.
This book is a great choice for young readers because it is both engaging and educational. It tackles complex themes like war, sacrifice, and friendship in a way that is accessible and relatable for 6th graders. The writing style is clear and descriptive, which helps readers visualize the setting and characters in their minds.
