book review 2nd grade

Best Books for 2nd Graders

Explore books that 2nd graders will love this list features age-appropriate and highly recommended reads, ranked based on their prominence in educational and book-loving circles..

Favorite books for 2nd graders

by: The GreatSchools Editorial Team

Print book list

Clara and the Bookwagon

by: Nancy Smiler Levinson , illustrated by: Carolyn Croll - (Harper Collins, 1988) 64 pages.

The year is 1905 and young Clara would like nothing more than to go to school with the other kids. However, life on the farm takes a lot of work and she is needed to help out with chores and her younger siblings. The new town librarian has devised a way of using a wagon to bring books to the farmers and their families who can’t get to the library. Can Clara and the librarian persuade father to let her learn to read? Based on a true story.

Perfect for: Kids who like historical fiction.

Find Clara and the Bookwagon at your local library.

Could You? Would You?

by: Trudy White - (Kane/Miller, 2007) 89 pages.

This wonderful book allows children to imagine the things they would do if they could. This is a story everyone can relate to, no matter his or her background.

Perfect for: Kids who like adventure stories.

Find Could You? Would You? at your local library.

Evangeline Mudd and the Golden-Haired Apes of the Ikkinasti Jungle

by: David Elliott , illustrated by: Andrea Wesson - (Candlewick, 2007) 196 pages.

In this first book in a series, the main character, Evangeline, has a pair of primatologist parents. When her parents are called away on a research trip to the Ikkinasti Jungle and mysteriously fail to return, it’s up to Evangeline to find them. With a wild, fast-paced adventure and illustrations that drive the narrative, this book about a plucky heroine will have your child asking for the next book in the series. Perfect for those “climb into a tree and read” summer days.

Find Evangeline Mudd and the Golden-Haired Apes of the Ikkinasti Jungle at your local library.

Mom and Dad Are Palindromes

by: Mark Shulman , illustrated by: Adam McCauley - (Chronicle Books, 2006) 36 pages.

Children don’t often want to be singled out by their teachers, but this is just what happens when Bob learns that he — horror of horrors! — is, in fact, a palindrome. Soon Bob begins to spot these forward/backward verbal oddities everywhere – in his family, out on the street, even while running away on a ship (where the available jobs involve radar or the rotor). Bob’s manic struggle to escape this bothersome label is both silly and clever, and his final “solution” to the dilemma is the book’s punch line. Author Mark Shulman and illustrator Adam McCauley embed more than 101 palindromes in the text and pictures, making this wacky story a highly visual exercise in wordplay. … A fun read-aloud for children and parents (or teachers) to share.

Perfect for: Kids who like humor stories.

Find Mom and Dad Are Palindromes at your local library.

My Dad’s a Birdman

by: David Almond , illustrated by: Polly Dunbar - (Candlewick Press, 2008) 115 pages.

My Dad’s a Birdman , originally a play, is a chapter book that is whimsically illustrated and darkly comic in a very British way. The story of Lizzie and her dad bonding over the Great Human Bird Competition has both the strange lightheartedness and the emotional maturity of Roald Dahl’s Matilda. I dare anyone to read it and not laugh — or cry.

Perfect for: Kids who like fantasy stories.

Find My Dad’s a Birdman at your local library.

Mr. George Baker

by: Amy Hest , illustrated by: Jon J. Muth - (Candlewick Press, 2004) 32 pages.

Mr. George Baker is one hundred years old! Monday through Friday, he sits on his porch with his 6-year-old neighbor, Harry, awaiting the arrival of the big yellow school bus that will take them off to learn to read. The book contains stunning watercolors by 2006 Caldecott honoree, Jon J Muth.

Perfect for: Kids who like realism.

Find Mr. George Baker at your local library.

Once Upon a Time

by: Niki Daly - (Farrar, Strauss & Giroux, 2003) 32 pages.

This is the triumphant story of Sarie, a South African girl who loves to learn but hates to be called on to read aloud in class. She is frequently made fun of because she reads so slowly and cautiously. With the support of her auntie, a fairytale book and a kind classmate, Sarie develops the confidence she needs.

Find Once Upon a Time at your local library.

The Random House Book of Poetry for Children

by: Jack Prelutsky , illustrated by: Arnold Lobel - (Random House, 1983) 32 pages.

The one poetry collection no home can be without. Whether the poet is Carl Sandburg or Shel Silverstein, Prelutsky’s anthology has a poem for every mood, every topic, and every child in one big, fat book that contains over 500 poems, sorted into 14 categories. A few of these poems each day will delight the ear, charm the senses, and satisfy our human need for rhyme and rhythm.

Perfect for: For kids who like poetry.

Find The Random House Book of Poetry for Children at your local library.

A Fine, Fine School

by: Sharon Creech , illustrated by: Harry Bliss - (Joanna Cotler Books/HarperCollins Pub., 2001) 32 pages.

Mr. Keene, an exuberant principal, loves his school so much that he decides to have school every Saturday and even during holidays and summer vacation. Your child will love finding out about Tillie’s creative plan to save her vacations.

Perfect for: Kids who like school.

Find A Fine, Fine School at your local library.

Get Ready for Second Grade, Amber Brown

by: Paula Danziger - (Puffin, 2002) 48 pages.

Like all students, Amber is nervous about starting a new school year with a new teacher. Is it true that her new teacher, Mrs. Light, thinks second graders are “knee biters”? Will Amber survive the year with a bully named Hannah? Luckily, Amber’s best friend Justin is also in her class and together they can handle anything.

Find Get Ready for Second Grade, Amber Brown at your local library.

It’s Test Day, Tiger Turcotte

by: Pansie Hart Flood , illustrated by: Amy Wummer - (Carolrhoda Books, 2004) 80 pages.

Tiger Turcotte is nervous about taking a standardized test. His biggest problem, though, is filling out the racial identification section of the test because he is multiracial. Themes of racial or ethnic identity and pride are incorporated in the plot.

Find It’s Test Day, Tiger Turcotte at your local library.

Virgie Goes to School with Us Boys

by: Elizabeth Fitzgerald Howard , illustrated by: Earl B. Lewis - (Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, 2000) 32 pages.

Virgie’s brothers walk many miles to go to school in Jonesboro, but she is not allowed to go. She fights to go with them, showing her resolve and strength.

Find Virgie Goes to School with Us Boys at your local library.

Ira Sleeps Over

by: Bernard Waber - (Houghton Mifflin, 1972) 48 pages.

When Reggie invites Ira for his first sleepover, the boy is over the moon — until his sister asks (with older sisterly malice) if he plans to bring his teddy bear. Ira always sleeps with his beloved bear, Tah Tah. He’s embarrassed to bring the stuffie &mash; but also worried about not bringing him. “Reggie will laugh,” his sister tells him. “He won’t laugh,” his parents say. In the end Ira decides for himself, and learns he made the right choice.

Find Ira Sleeps Over at your local library.

The Adventures of Taxi Dog

by: Debra & Sal Barracca , illustrated by: Mark Buehner - (Dial Books for Young Readers, 1990) 32 pages.

A stray dog in New York City is adopted by a taxi driver, with whom he rides and shares adventures each day.

Find The Adventures of Taxi Dog at your local library.

Sneakers, the Seaside Cat

by: Margaret Wise Brown , illustrated by: Anne Mortimer - (HarperCollins, 2003) 32 pages.

Sneakers goes on a trip to the seaside, where he finds many curious creatures. He discovers fish to catch in the ocean and amuses himself with playful shrimp and crabs. Anne Mortimer’s bright and beautiful illustrations portray the cat’s spirited adventure in a way that your child will surely enjoy.

Find Sneakers, the Seaside Cat at your local library.

by: Sally Grindley , illustrated by: Tony Ross - (Simon & Schuster, 2006) 144 pages.

Max develops a friendship with his favorite author through the lost art of letter writing. The two give each other advice about writing, friendship and life in this touching story.

Perfect for: Kids who like making friends.

Find Dear Max at your local library.

by: Andrew Clements , illustrated by: Tim Bowers - (Simon & Schuster, 2007) 40 pages.

Dogku is a clever and sweet little story about a stray dog who finds a loving home. Such plots are a staple of children’s literature and entertainment, but what sets this book apart is the method of telling the tale — each page is written in haiku. … For example, Clements writes: “Morning brings children/Hugs, licks, barking, and laughing./Warmer than sunshine.” The oil on canvas illustrations by Tim Bowers are just as warm and cheerful as the text. There is a helpful author’s note at the end of the book, giving a simple and enthusiastic explanation of haiku for the child reader. … A novel way for young children to experiment with language.

Find Dogku at your local library.

Fox and His Friends

by: Edward Marshall , illustrated by: James Marshall - (Dial Press, 1982) 56 pages.

How can Fox have fun with his friends when his little sister tags along everywhere he goes? Your child will love finding out if Louise really does spoil all the fun.

Find Fox and His Friends at your local library.

Frog and Toad Together

by: Arnold Lobel - (Harper Collins, 1972) 64 pages.

The hook: Frog and Toad are best friends who will do anything for each other. Your child will enjoy finding out about their escapades in five short chapters as the amphibious duo bake cookies, test their bravery and plant a garden together. If your child enjoys this chapter book, he may also like Frog and Toad All Year and Days with Frog and Toad . Newbery Honor, 1973.

Find our favorites at your local library: Frog and Toad Together , Frog and Toad All Year , Days with Frog and Toad .

We Are Best Friends

by: Aliki - (Greenwillow, 1982) 32 pages.

In this story, Robert and Peter struggle with how they can remain best friends after Peter moves away. Aliki’s simple illustrations and text capture the boys’ loneliness while sending a reassuring message that your child will appreciate.

Find We Are Best Friends at your local library.

Painted Dreams

by: Karen Lynn Williams - (Lothrop, Lee & Shepard, 1998) 40 pages.

Little Marie dreams about being an artist. Whenever she is not doing chores for her family, she uses leftover paints, feathers and goat hair to create new works of art. This beautifully illustrated story set in Haiti presents details about Haitian art and ways of life.

Perfect for: Kids who like art.

Find Painted Dreams at your local library.

The Chocolate Touch

by: Patrick Skene Catling , illustrated by: Margot Apple - (Morrow, 1952) 128 pages.

Ah, my fantasy… Everything our hero John Midas touches turns into chocolate! However, he soon finds out you can certainly have too much of anything, even chocolate. A cross between Bread and Jam for Frances and King Midas and the Golden Touch. For a strong reader or a bedtime “read to me.”

Perfect for: Kids who like classic stories.

Find The Chocolate Touch at your local library.

Little Toot

by: Hardie Gramatky - (G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1939) 96 pages.

I can’t think of another book more perfect for a little boy or girl than this story of a scrappy little tugboat. Although he gets himself in too deep, Little Toot learns that he can do it! The nostalgic illustrations are the perfect compliment to this tale reminiscent of The Little Engine That Could .

Find Little Toot at your local library.

Make Way for Ducklings

by: Robert McCloskey - (Viking Press, 1941) 64 pages.

Mr. and Mrs. Mallard search for the perfect place in Boston to hatch their ducklings. They travel all over the city until they find a quaint little island on the Charles River. Once their ducklings hatch, Mrs. Mallard teaches them how to swim, dive and walk in a straight row through the busy city streets. Watch your child smile and laugh with delight with this historic award-winner.

Find Make Way for Ducklings at your local library.

The Puppy Sister

by: S.E. Hinton , illustrated by: Jacqueline Rogers - (Bantam Books, 1995) 128 pages.

Powerful message of how family love overcomes sibling rivalry. The few illustrations are perfect for this well-told story. Reading level and content make it a great read-alone, even for reluctant readers.

Find The Puppy Sister at your local library.

Atomic Ace (He’s Just My Dad)

by: Jeff Weigel - (Albert Whitman and Company, 2004) 32 pages.

This book tells the story of a young boy whose Dad just happens to be a superhero. His friends don’t understand, but when his Dad “saves the day,” he is truly a hero. Children really like the cartoon illustrations.

Find Atomic Ace (He’s Just My Dad) at your local library.

The Bee-Man of Orn

by: Frank R. Stockton , illustrated by: P.J. Lynch - (Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1964) 50 pages.

This beautifully illustrated retelling follows the Bee-man’s search for his original form. The Sorcerer hopes the poor shriveled man living among bees will make something better of his life next time. Students can predict what he will become years later.

Find The Bee-Man of Orn at your local library.

Dinosaurs Before Dark, Magic Tree House series

by: Mary Pope Osborne , illustrated by: Sal Murdocca - (Random House, 1992) 80 pages.

Children cannot get enough of the adventures of Jack and Annie, as they travel back in time in their tree house. The tree house is magical and filled with books on subjects such as dinosaurs, knights, Egypt, China, and volcanoes. In this first adventure, Jack and Annie happen upon a book about dinosaurs. Before they know it, they are whisked back in time to 65 million years ago. Children get a lesson in history and experience an unforgettable adventure.

Find Dinosaurs Before Dark, Magic Tree House Series at your local library.

Duck for President

by: Doreen Cronin , illustrated by: Betsy Lewin - (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2004) 40 pages.

Duck brings democracy and elections to the farm in a bid to avoid work. Unfortunately, it’s campaigning, not serving, that captivates Duck. He abdicates the presidency to return to the farm and write his memoirs. A red, white, and blue delight!

Find Duck for President at your local library.

Dude, Where’s My Spaceship?

by: Dan Greenburg , illustrated by: Macky Pamintuan - (Random House, 2006) 96 pages.

Author Dan Greenburg’s specialty is writing fun chapter books featuring boys, like his very popular earlier series, The Zack Files. It’s a challenge for some boys to slow down to read a book, but titles like Dude, Where’s My Spaceship? keep boys (and girls, too) turning the pages. Dude is the first in his Weird Planet series, featuring an alien family and their shenanigans on Earth. This is an exciting, rollicking story for readers who love adventure.

Find Dude, Where’s My Spaceship? at your local library.

Hansel and Gretel

by: Rika Lesser , illustrated by: Paul O. Zelinsky - (Dodd, Mead & Co., 1984) 40 pages.

This Caldecott Honor book presents an understated retelling of the Grimm classic. Zelinsky’s paintings in this work originally published in 1984 show the beauty and lushness that would result in his 1998 Caldecott Medal for Rapunzel. This is a beautiful and scary world, and the effect is heightened by Lesser’s spare, poetic language. Zelinsky’s artwork makes this version one that children will not soon forget. The story captures childhood fears and yearnings: abandonment, fantastic candy supplies and reuniting with loved ones. Classic folktales survive and are retold over and over because they serve the purpose of helping protect our children. Luckily for us, such artistry as Zelinsky’s help to bring the point home with shadows and magic, elegance and grace.

Find Hansel and Gretel at your local library.

My Father’s Dragon

by: Ruth Stiles Gannett - (Random House, 1948) 112 pages.

Pardon me while I gush. This book is, by far, the most memorable early chapter-book of my childhood. While it has never been forgotten in my household, I find that many people nowadays don’t know about this magical book, the first of a trilogy featuring Elmer Elevator and his adventures. In My Father’s Dragon, Elmer rescues a baby dragon from the cruel animals on Wild Island and in the process takes you on a fantastic journey. My most highly recommended book on this list.

Find My Father’s Dragon at your local library.

Roger the Jolly Pirate

by: Brett Helquist - (HarperCollins Children's Books, 2004) 40 pages.

Roger isn’t like the other pirates. He longs to be accepted and finally manages a way to earn their favor with quite a bang. This is a delightful glimpse into the life and vocabulary of a pirate.

Find Roger the Jolly Pirate at your local library.

Space Station Mars

by: Daniel San Souci - (Tricycle Press, 2005) 40 pages.

An action-packed and whimsically illustrated narrative describing the adventures of seven young boys. This is another “clubhouse” mission complete with aliens, spaceships, and secret codes, sure to tap imaginations and lead to sharing of stories. Aliens beware!

Find Space Station Mars at your local library.

Tales Our Abuelitas Told: A Hispanic Folktale Collection

by: F. Isabel Campoy and Alma Flor Ada , illustrated by: Felipe Davalos, Susan Guevara, Leyla Torres and Vivi Escrivia - (Simon & Schuster, 2006) 128 pages.

Gathered from the various spots on the globe that make up the Hispanic heritage – from the Basques northeast and Celtic northwest corners of Spain through the Arab influences of southern Spain to the Americas, these 12 stories have been polished by the retellings from one generation to another; from grandmothers to grandchildren. In this welcome addition to a folktale library, each story has an end-piece with specific information about the origins and versions of the tale.

Find Tales Our Abuelitas Told: A Hispanic Folktale Collection at your local library.

Toys Go Out: Being the Adventures of a Knowledgeable Stingray, a Toughy Little Buffalo, and Someone Called Plastic

by: Emily Jenkins , illustrated by: Paul O. Zelinsky - (Random House Children's Books, 2006) 128 pages.

There’s more than a spot of borrowing in this updated homage to the hundred-acre wood: we meet our heroes (and heroines) coming “buh-buh bump!” down the stairs just like Pooh, albeit in an up-to-the-minute backpack; one character, like Eeyore, parts company with his tail; and another, like Roo, is prone to bounce. Still, there’s plenty to love in a story about a ball named “Plastic,” a buffalo named Lumphy, and a stingray named StingRay.

Find Toys Go Out: Being the Adventures of a Knowledgeable Stingray, a Toughy Little Buffalo, and Someone Called Plastic at your local library.

Traction Man Is Here!

by: Mini Grey - (Random House Children's Books, 2005) 32 pages.

Traction Man is a toy figure who protects his master and the world he lives in. The book captures children’s imagination about having a superhero action toy that keeps a scrubbing brush as a pet and tolerates granny’s knitted outfit.

Find Traction Man Is Here! at your local library.

Why the Sky Is Far Away: A Nigerian Folktale

by: Mary-Joan Gerson , illustrated by: Carla Golembe - (Little, Brown, 1995) 32 pages.

This traditional folktale, from the Bini tribe of Nigeria, tells of a time not so long ago when the sky was so close that even the smallest child could reach right up and grab a piece to munch on. The sky got very angry and moved out of reach when the tribe became greedy and wasteful.

Find Why the Sky Is Far Away: A Nigerian Folktale at your local library.

The Worst Witch at School

by: Jill Murphy - (Candlewick Press, 2007) 175 pages.

This book comprises two titles in the Worst Witch series: The Worst Witch and The Worst Witch Strikes Again. It’s a great precursor for readers not ready for the Harry Potter series, mixing friendship, adventures and fantasy. The accident-prone Mildred Hubble experiences a series of mishaps in witch school causing her humiliation, fear (not much), and frustration. She’s a likable character who has good friends and a couple of enemies, including a sharp-nosed teacher named Miss Hardbroom. Children fall from broomsticks, are turned into animals by the wrong spells and threatened by a band of misfit witches.

Find The Worst Witch at School at your local library.

Baseball Saved Us

by: Ken Mochizuki , illustrated by: Dom Lee - (Lee & Low Books, 1993) 30 pages.

Children will love this moving tale in which hope triumphs over evil. In this picture book, a young boy tells the story of his parents’ internment in a camp for Japanese Americans in 1942. Despite the deplorable conditions in the camp, the prisoners use an improvised baseball game to keep their hope alive.

Find Baseball Saved Us at your local library.

Chig and the Second Spread

by: Gwenyth Swain - (Delacorte Press, 2003) 199 pages.

Chig’s difficulties with size and speaking up will resonate with many readers, and may provide an opportunity for discussion. The harshness of the Depression is kept mostly at bay in this book.

Find Chig and the Second Spread at your local library.

The Enchanted Dolls’ House

by: Robyn Johnson - (Handprint Books, 2006) 32 pages.

Peer through windows, unfold letters and open closet doors of dollhouses from the medieval times through the 1900s. Search for 10 little boys in the pages of this book filled with information about dollhouses through the ages.

Find The Enchanted Dolls’ House at your local library.

by: Jacqueline Woodson , illustrated by: Hudson Talbott - (Penguin Putnam, 2005) 40 pages.

This is a beautifully sewn story of women who travel from slavery to freedom. Parents need to know that though this is a picture book, it’s really aimed at middle-grade kids. There are historical references here that will need explaining, especially for younger kids, as will the information in the collages. There are some references to violence: a slave is killed, a silhouette of the capture of a runaway, news images from protest marches. Families who read this book could discuss the history. What was slavery and how did it end? What happened to the freed slaves? What was the Civil Rights era? How is life for African Americans different now than it was even in Mom and Dad’s childhood?

Find Show Way at your local library.

Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Babe Ruth Baseball

by: David Adler , illustrated by: Susanna Natti - (Viking Press, 1982) 64 pages.

The hook: Jennifer “Camera” Jansen uses her photographic memory to save the day once again! At a hobby show a man’s prized Babe Ruth baseball goes missing. Cam clearly remembers a boy in a green jacket standing very close to that same baseball, but can she prove it.

Perfect for: Kids who like mysteries.

Find our favorites at your local library: The Mystery of the Babe Ruth Baseball , The Mystery of the Stolen Diamonds , The Mystery of the Gold Coins , The Catnapping Mystery , The Snowy Day Mystery .

Julian, Secret Agent

by: Ann Cameron - (Random House, 1988) 64 pages.

Julian, his brother Huey and their friend Gloria see a wanted poster at the post office with a reward of $25,000. All they have to do is find a certain master of disguise who loves to cook. Or stop a bank robber or even a dognapper. Suddenly, cracking the case is the name of the game!

Find Julian, Secret Agent at your local library.

The Seven Treasure Hunts

by: Betsy Byars , illustrated by: Jennifer Barrett - (HarperCollins, 1991) 80 pages.

Jackson and Goat love trying to outsmart each other by creating treasure hunts for one another. But when Jackson misunderstands a clue, he lands Goat in hot water with his sister Rachel.

Find The Seven Treasure Hunts at your local library.

Tuff Fluff: The Case of Duckie’s Missing Brain

by: Scott Nash - (Candlewick Press, 2004) 40 pages.

When Duckie, resident storytelling toy of Los Attic, loses some of his brainy stuffing and can’t tell tales anymore, Tuff Fluff, Private Investigator, is on the case. Creative surgery and sharing between friends puts Duckie back in action. Case closed.

Find Tuff Fluff: The Case of Duckie’s Missing Brain at your local library.

by: Tony Kushner , illustrated by: Maurice Sendak - (Hyperion Books for Children, 2003) 56 pages.

Although older children and adults will certainly notice that several of the characters in the book wear yellow armbands with a Star of David, and that Brundibar, with his bristly, cropped mustache, bears a strong resemblance to Hitler, the historical context is not necessary to an appreciation of the story. All children are familiar with bullies, and the small children’s triumph in the story is cheering and satisfying. In the end they say to the reader, “Remember, please be brave and bullies will behave!” Unfortunately, justice is sometimes a long time coming.

Find Brundibar at your local library.

Building With Dad

by: Carol Nevius , illustrated by: Bill Thomson - (Marshall Cavendish, 2006) 32 pages.

Children fascinated by construction sites and the resident massive equipment are bound to enjoy Carol Nevius’s new picture book. Here, the world of building becomes even more up close and personal for one young boy and his construction worker father. The boy is getting a brand-new school, and the storyline follows the work’s progress from groundbreaking all the way to the first day of class. Each page consists of a rhymed couplet, in which we’re introduced to a different facet of the job. … Nevius’s text is sweet and simple, and the boy’s feeling of pride for both his father and the school are evident. Bill Thomson’s acrylic and colored pencil illustrations are startlingly realistic — at first glance each page looks like a photograph — and will thrill young construction fans.

Find Building With Dad at your local library.

Hachiko: The True Story of a Loyal Dog

by: Pamela S. Turner , illustrated by: Yan Nascimbene - (Houghton Mifflin, 2004) 32 pages.

Based on a true story, this touching tale pays tribute to a dog named Hachiko, who waited for nearly 10 years at a Tokyo train station for his master, who never returned. Also tells about the bronze statue in Shibuya Station in Japan and the festival that is held every April, honoring this incredible canine.

Find Hachiko: The True Story of a Loyal Dog at your local library.

Mr. Peabody’s Apples

by: Madonna , illustrated by: Loren Long - (Callaway, 2003) 40 pages.

Inspired by a 300-year old Ukrainian story, this tale teaches a lesson about the dangers of gossip, the power of words and how rumors can cause harm to others. With its warm illustrations and important message, this is an amazing children’s book, one that should be shared at an early age.

Perfect for: Kids who like realism stories.

Find Mr. Peabody’s Apples at your local library.

Sam and the Lucky Money

by: Karen Chinn , illustrated by: Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu - (Lee & Low Books, 1997) 32 pages.

For Chinese New Year, Sam receives the traditional token of a red envelope with money. While out with his family, with the money burning a hole in his pocket, he sees a homeless man with no socks on his feet and no food to eat. Sam realizes that the right, lucky thing to do is to use his money to buy the man some socks.

Find Sam and the Lucky Money at your local library.

Velma Gratch & the Way Cool Butterfly

by: Alan Madison , illustrated by: Kevin Hawkes - (Schwartz & Wade, 2007) 40 pages.

A study of butterflies, a trip to the Butterfly Conservatory and one specific Monarch opens a spunky little girl’s eyes to the magic of life, and she changes forever. And, the reader will too. While the metamorphosis of a butterfly may be an easy, obvious metaphor for growth and development, its use in this book is made fresh and exciting by the personality of Velma Gratch. From her “carroty curls” pulled up in springy ponytails to her “knobby knees” and “spaghetti arms” to her determination to learn important big words like “metamorphosis,” “conservatory” and “migration,” Velma is an individual, though she doesn’t know it yet. In her, both author and illustrator combine their talents to create the kind of independent, confident spirit that we hope all kids will discover in themselves.

Find Velma Gratch & the Way Cool Butterfly at your local library.

Babymouse: Skater Girl

by: Jennifer L. Holm & Matthew Holm - (Random House, 2007) 96 pages.

This charming mouse has starred in six of her own graphic novels and in this seventh in the series she does not disappoint. Babymouse has the chance to show what she is best at after all her friends are named best at something. When she is discovered by a famous ice-skating coach, her fun hobby treads on thin ice. Jennifer L. Holm is the Newbery Honor-winning author of Our Only May Amelia , so the writing is wonderful. Her brother Matthew draws Babymouse whimsically. You’d be hard pressed to find a 9-year-old girl who isn’t pining for this icy Babymouse book.

Find Babymouse: Skater Girl at your local library.

Come on, Rain

by: Karen Hesse , illustrated by: Jon L. Muth - (Scholastic, 1999) 32 pages.

The yellow haze of unrelenting heat steams off every page of this beautifully water-colored story of leggy little girls waiting for rain. Just when everyone in the city is wilting, a delicate breeze through the kitchen window brings hope for refreshing rain. Little girls who dance in the welcome downpour are joined by their Mamas, who can’t resist the cleansing storm either. With rich word choice that sizzles, thunders, drenches and simmers, the story concludes with a parched city now glistening after a rain storm that refreshes even the reader.

Find Come on, Rain at your local library.

Marja’s Skis

by: Jean E. Pendziwol , illustrated by: Jirina Marton - (Groundwood Books, 2007) 32 pages.

In this beautifully illustrated picture book, Marja learns about self-reliance. When she longs to ski to school alone like her older sister, she remembers the words her father once told her, “When you are strong inside, you can do anything.” The memory of her father and his words come back to her when her new-found strength is put to the test. This is a moving story with a lasting message.

Perfect for: Kids who likes realism.

Find Marja’s Skis at your local library.

Nate the Great and the Mushy Valentine

by: Marjorie Weinman Sharmat , illustrated by: Marc Simont - (Delacorte Press, 1994) 32 pages.

For those Nate the Great fans, you won’t be disappointed by his latest adventure. Nate tries to solve, not one, but two mysteries. Valentine’s Day is a day Nate would rather forget because he hates mushy, gushy stuff! Can he ignore a good mystery when it involves his dog Sludge and his friend Annie? I think not! Read to find out if Nate gets any Valentines of his own.

Find Nate the Great and the Mushy Valentine at your local library.

Poppleton in Winter

by: Cynthia Rylant - (Blue Sky Press, 2001) 48 pages.

This collection features three short stories for early readers. In “Icicles,” the downfall of Poppleton’s beloved icicles leads to a new friendship. In “The Bust,” Poppleton’s creative juices get flowing, inspiring him to take up sculpting. And in “The Sleigh Ride,” he’s disappointed that all of his friends stay inside to bake when he wants to go for a sleigh ride … until he finds out that they were baking in honor of his birthday! Cynthia Rylant’s Poppleton in Winter is creative and fun — a perfect read on a snowy day.

Find Poppleton in Winter at your local library.

The Race of the Birkebeiners

by: Lise Lunge-Larsen , illustrated by: Mary Azarian - (Houghton Mifflin, 2001) 32 pages.

Based on an account documenting a true incident in Norwegian history, this book tells the story of the Birkebeiners, a group of brave warriors in 1264, who race to protect a baby, Prince Hakon, the future King of Norway, from his enemies, the Baglers. Woodcuts from the illustrator of Snowflake Bentley add dramatic effect to this mesmerizing tale.

Find The Race of the Birkebeiners at your local library.

Snow Wonder

by: Charles Ghigna - (Random House, 2008) 24 pages.

With so much to do — like sledding, ice skating and cookie-baking with grandma — it’s “snow” wonder that this brother-and-sister duo have such a great day of wintry fun. Early readers will love Snow Wonder for its rhyming story, sticker sheets and colorful illustrations. (The little dog is especially cute!)

Find Snow Wonder at your local library.

The Snowy Day

by: Ezra Jack Keats - (Macmillan, 1962) 40 pages.

Young Peter wakes up to find that snow has fallen — and he can’t wait to go outside and play! Although he’s disappointed when he finds that he can’t save a snowball in his pocket, his sadness melts when he wakes up the next morning to yet another day of snowy fun. Keats’s collage-style illustrations are wonderful — especially the sharp contrast of Peter in his red snow suit (with its little pointy hood) against the snowy landscape. Keats’s classic Snowy Day beautifully captures a child’s sense of wonder.

Find The Snowy Day at your local library.

by: Mélanie Watt - (Kids Can Press, 2007) 32 pages.

“Once upon a time,” a huge cat named Chester took a red marker and rewrote Watt’s story about a “boring” mouse. Chester’s editing delights young readers as his humorous revisions make him the star of the book.

Find Chester at your local library.

Diary of a Worm

by: Doreen Cronin - (Joanna Cotler Books, 2003) 40 pages.

Doreen Cronin has done it again with this first person narrative told from the point of view of a boy worm. This book introduces the concept of a diary in a fun way. Young readers will identify with all the escapades of a worm, as he interacts with family members, goes to school and vacations at Compost Island. Children will laugh and learn facts in a fun way while learning to appreciate living creatures.

Want to see the movie? Check out the Scholastic video collection Diary of a Worm… And Four More Great Animal Tales , which also includes favorites like Anatole and Frog Goes to Dinner .

Find Diary of a Worm at your local library.

Down Girl and Sit: Smarter than Squirrels

by: Lucy Nolan , illustrated by: Mike Reed - (Marshall Cavendish, 2004) 68 pages.

Four hilarious stories about the adventures of two dogs told from a dog’s perspective by Down Girl. Whether it’s getting Rruff (her master) up early so he doesn’t have to hear the alarm clock, chasing squirrels and Here Kitty Kitty, or eating an entire bag of dog food in one afternoon, we see life with humans through the loving eyes of our best friends. This simply illustrated, laugh out loud chapter book will make all listeners eager for a sequel.

Find Down Girl and Sit: Smarter than Squirrels at your local library.

Drooling and Dangerous: The Riot Brothers Return

by: Mary Amato , illustrated by: Ethan Long - (Holiday House, 2006) 176 pages.

The hook: Three separate hilarious adventures of brothers Orville and Wilbur and their mother, who is also a school principal, will attract young readers who love silliness. With plastic bugs constantly flying, the brothers become spies and movie stars, celebrate “dwitch say,” and almost get into big trouble.

Perfect for: Siblings with a sense of fun.

Find our favorites at your local library: Drooling and Dangerous: The Riot Brothers Return , Take the Mummy and Run: The Riot Brothers are on a Roll .

Gator Gumbo

by: Candace Fleming , illustrated by: Sally Anne Lambert - (Farrar Straus Giroux, 2004) 32 pages.

Monsieur Gator is teased mercilessly by a pack of pesky swamp critters who clearly haven’t read about Brer Rabbit and the Tar Baby or they wouldn’t get so close to his bubbling cauldron. Monsieur may not be as young as he used to be but his wits and his maman’s recipe get him both dinner and revenge. A beautifully illustrated tale with just a touch of Cajun dialect will delight the ear of the giggling listeners who will know what Mr. Gator is up to long before his tormentors do.

Find Gator Gumbo at your local library.

Gooney Bird Greene

by: Lois Lowry , illustrated by: Middy Thomas - (Houghton Mifflin, 2002) 96 pages.

The hook: Gooney Bird arrives in second grade in the middle of a school day, which suits her fine. She wants to be in the center of all action — but especially of all attention. Wearing colorful, creative costumes daily, Gooney Bird soon becomes the brightest — in every sense of the word — star of second grade. Her teacher, who is trying to explain the nature of good stories to her class, tolerantly allows Gooney Bird to upstage her by telling melodramatic stories that appear to be whoppers. Declaring, “I tell only absolutely true stories,” Gooney Bird enters the annals of funny young protagonists. The format of her book is excellent for transitional readers; her stories, filtered through a fine imagination, are entertaining; and they will leave readers hoping for more.

Perfect for: Attention-seekers and their wallflower admirers.

Find our favorites at your local library: Gooney Bird Greene , Gooney the Fabulous , Gooney Bird is So Absurd .

How to Save Your Tail

by: Mary Hansen - (Schwartz & Wade Books, 2007) 93 pages.

Once upon a time, there was a verbally creative rat, Bob, who managed to save his tail by telling tall tales. Bob loved two things above all others — reading and baking cookies. One afternoon, when Bob is cornered by two hungry cats, he puts his talents to work to save himself. He enchants the cats with fanciful tales while serving up warm-from-the-oven, mouthwatering cookies alongside fresh saucers of milk. This amusing story is the perfect read-aloud that is sure to elicit a giggle or two. Young readers will quickly recognize that Bob’s tales have much in common with classic fairy tales. The illustrations provide a delightful accompaniment to the story, so bake up a batch of cookies, pour a glass of milk, curl up and enjoy this charming tale.

Perfect for: Storytellers and any child who enjoys a tall tale.

Find How to Save Your Tail at your local library.

It’s Raining Pigs & Noodles

by: Jack Prelutsky , illustrated by: James Stevenson - (Greenwillow Books, 2000) 160 pages.

The title, which is also the first line, sets the playful tone. Delightfully anti-authoritarian and anti-establishment, Prelutsky is the unexcelled master of word-playing nonsense. His laugh-aloud poems are rude, disrespectful, annoying and perceptive. In a word, marvelous. Childish readers, however, will read, laugh and pay him the ultimate compliment. They will memorize and repeat them with pickle relish.

Perfect for: Kids who delight in rebellious behavior.

Find It’s Raining Pigs & Noodles at your local library.

Moxy Maxwell Does Not Love Stuart Little

by: Peggy Gifford , illustrated by: Valorie Fisher - (Schwatz & Wade Books, 2008) 92 pages.

Every child goes through the plot of this book at some point in his or her school career: It’s the day before school starts and you haven’t read the book that was required for summer reading. You’ve got this pit in your stomach because you know that you’re in trouble, but you just can’t bring yourself to do the reading. Moxy is in the same boat. It’s not that she hates to read — she just doesn’t want to read what somebody else tells her to read. This laugh-out-loud book is full of wit and charm. Moxy is a lovable character, even if her schemes are scatter-brained. The action takes place in the course of a fateful day in which a bowl of peaches, a garden hose and Moxy’s mother’s garden play vital roles. The story will leave you with a smirk on your face.

Find Moxy Maxwell Does Not Love Stuart Little at your local library.

Ready Freddy: Don’t Sit on My Lunch

by: Abby Klein , illustrated by: John Mckinley - (Blue Sky Press, 2005) 96 pages.

The hook: Second graders can’t get enough of this hilarious series. Both boys and girls relate to Freddy and his best friend, Jessie, who happens to be a girl. In fact, she is the star hockey player on the peewee hockey team. Readers delight in Freddy and Jessie’s antics, as Jessie tries to help Freddy get a spot on her team. Of course, no school story would be complete without a class bully. Find out if Freddy can outplay “Max the Bully” in this entertaining read.

Find our favorites at your local library: Don’t Sit on My Lunch , Talent Show Scaredy-Pants , Shark Tooth Tale , Stop That Hamster!

Science Verse

by: Jon Scieszka , illustrated by: Lane Smith - (Viking Juvenile, 2004) 40 pages.

Loosely based on a variety of famous poems (“Listen, my children, and you shall hear/Of how loud noises go in your ear.”), these 21 wacky poems – accompanied by Lane Smith’s equally goofy illustrations — cover everything from the “Water Cycle” (“It’s raining, it’s pouring/For H20, it’s boring”) to anatomy (“I think that I ain’t never seen/A poem ugly as a spleen”) to parasites (“Mary had a little worm./She thought it was a chigger./But everything that Mary ate/Only made it bigger.”) The main thing you’ll learn about science is that it can be a lot of fun.

Perfect for: Kids who like a little scientific humor.

Find Science Verse at your local library.

Soupy Saturdays with the Pain and the Great One

by: Judy Blume , illustrated by: James Stevenson - (Delacorte Press, 2007) 108 pages.

This book is about an older sister (“the Great One”) and a younger brother (“the Pain”). Each chapter is told from alternating perspectives, so both kids get equal time telling their stories, which are funny, realistic and endearing. Though they both make cases for detesting each other, it is clear that the siblings are close. For example, when the Pain is afraid to get his hair cut, the Great One makes him a pair of fake ears, saying that if he wears one and gets cut, the barber will suffer from the curse that she placed on the ears. A perfect read-aloud for the whole family, this can easily be read by a newer reader. Parents who grew up on Judy Blume will enjoy it, as I did. Siblings will empathize with the characters, and everyone will laugh at the situations that are unmistakably “Judy Blume.”

Find Soupy Saturdays with the Pain and the Great One at your local library.

Tacky in Trouble

by: Helen Lester , illustrated by: Lynn M. Munsinger - (Houghton Mifflin, 1998) 32 pages.

Tacky is back, getting himself into predicaments that can only result in delighted, yet understanding, young readers. This time, Tacky is surfing while his more subdued penguin pals are napping on their iceberg. Tacky’s flowered shirt catches a mighty gust of wind and he is transported to a tropical island. An elephant (Tacky thinks she’s a large grey rock) mistakes Tacky’s shirt for a perfect bouquet of flowers to grace her kitchen table. What can Tacky do to escape? He does “penguinish” things to prove he is not a table dressing: He marches, dives, slides and hops until the tablecloth is covered with food. As usual, Munsinger’s watercolor illustrations are hilarious, and the story is told in Lester’s dry, witty tone. Tacky will certainly find new fans with this book, while old fans will be reminded to reread the other Tacky books!

Find Tacky in Trouble at your local library.

Three Stories You Can Read to Your Dog

by: Sara Swan Miller , illustrated by: True Kelley - (Houghton Mifflin, 1995) 48 pages.

Hilarious cartoon illustrations scamper across the pages of this three-chapter book. Told in the second person, these rollicking tales of “The Burglar,” “The Bone,” and “The Wild Dog” will delight humans and dogs of all ages. Anyone who’s ever loved a dog will recognize their beloved pet in these canine adventures. Cat-lovers will be as delighted with the equal opportunity sequel, Three Stories You Can Read to Your Cat (1997). Miller’s books are an irresistible transition from picture books to chapter books.

Find Three Stories You Can Read to Your Dog at your local library.

Mama Played Baseball

by: David Adler , illustrated by: Chris O'Leary - (Gulliver Books, 2003) 32 pages.

Adler and O’Leary honor the women who played in the All-American Girl’s Professional Baseball League from 1943-1954. Started when the men were fighting in World War II, talented females fed the love of the national pastime for loyal fans. The story of one such athlete is told by her daughter who takes fielding practice with her mama while they wait patiently for her daddy to come home safely. Illustrations in oil paints add movement and life to the story of a devoted little girl who captures women?s baseball in pictures she draws for her soldier father.

Perfect for: Kids who like sports.

Find Mama Played Baseball at your local library.

Emperor Penguins

by: Roberta Edwards - (Grosset & Dunlap, 2007) 48 pages.

This early reader is full of fun facts about emperor penguins — their lifecycle, habitat, predators and even what they like to do for fun. With easy-to-understand explanations and plenty of illustrations, Emperor Penguins is a great choice for young animal lovers.

Perfect for: Kids who like animals.

Find Emperor Penguins at your local library.

Encyclopedia Prehistorica: Dinosaurs

by: Matthew Reinhart and Robert Sabuda - (Candlewick Press, 2005) 12 pages.

Parents need to know that this book is both too delicate, and possibly too scary (on one page the jaws of a T-rex come out at the reader) for young kids. Also, though thoroughly researched, some of the information presented, both verbally and pictorially, is controversial, though the author is usually careful to indicate this. Families who read this book could discuss the science behind it, the sleuthing and inferences made by paleontologists. How did they figure out what the dinosaurs looked like and ate? What has caused their ideas to change? Families can also do further research together on the types of dinosaurs presented, or find out about other species.

Find Encyclopedia Prehistorica: Dinosaurs at your local library.

Look What Tails Can Do

by: Dorothy Souza - (Lerner Publications Co., 2007) 48 pages.

This book proves that a tail can be more than just a tail. The appearance and function of tails as different as the prehensile tail of an opossum to the deadly tail of a scorpion to the beautiful tail of the Central American quetzal are discussed. Simple vocabulary and close-up color photographs enhance the appeal for young readers. If this book is a hit, there are additional titles in this series (Look What Animals Can Do).

Find Look What Tails Can Do at your local library.

by: Zahavit Shalev - (DK Publishing, 2005) 48 pages.

This book follows the daily routine of five diverse animals at a water hole on the African savannah from dawn until midnight. The pages, which include a clock indicating the time of day, are packed with facts about the eating, playing, resting and sleeping behaviors of the animals found in this particular habitat. The visually appealing photographs and the conversational style may just hook those reluctant readers. There are additional titles in the series, including Coral Reef, Mountain, Arctic, Rain Forest, and Desert.

Find Water Hole at your local library.

The Flyer Flew! The Invention of the Airplane

by: Lee Sullivan Hill , illustrated by: Craig Orback - (Millbrook Press, 2006) 48 pages.

This brief chapter book featuring short simple sentences and basic vocabulary introduces the story of Wilbur and Orville Wright, inventors of the airplane. The brothers, who ran a bicycle shop, read about the flight research of German flier Otto Lilienthal. When Lilienthal dies in a crash, the brothers decide to continue his research and begin to build gliders. Technical terms are explained in words and pictures. An afterword provides an introduction to their scientific method, and a glossary is included. This would be the perfect read for inquiring young scientists and those kids fascinated by aircraft and flight.

Perfect for: Kids who like to read about real people.

Roberto Clemente: Pride of the Pittsburgh Pirates

by: Jonah Winter , illustrated by: Raul Colon - (Atheneum, 2005) 40 pages.

This beautifully illustrated book chronicles the career of Latino baseball star Roberto Clemente, from his childhood in Puerto Rico, through his major league career, and finally to his tragic death in a plane crash on his way to aid earthquake victims in Central America. This inspirational story follows Clemente from humble beginnings (his first baseball glove was made from a coffee-bean sack) to World Series fame in the major leagues to his legacy as a role model for aspiring baseball players and as a hero to the people of Puerto Rico for his humanitarian work.

Find Roberto Clemente: Pride of the Pittsburgh Pirates at your local library.

Sixteen Years in Sixteen Seconds: The Sammy Lee Story

by: Paula Yoo , illustrated by: Dom Lee - (Lee & Low Books, 2005) 32 pages.

This is the moving and inspirational story of Sammy Lee, an Olympian diver. Growing up Korean American in 1930s Los Angeles, Sammy was only allowed to use the pool one day a week because he was viewed as “Colored.” Sammy did not let this obstacle stand in his way. He knew that diving was in his soul, so he spent his days practicing in sand near his home, and his nights studying to be a doctor in order to honor his father’s wishes. In 1948, Dr. Sammy Lee became the first Asian American to win a gold medal in the Olympics. Accompanied by sensitive, thoughtful illustrations.

Find Sixteen Years in Sixteen Seconds: The Sammy Lee Story at your local library.

Smart About – George Washington Carver, The Peanut Wizard

by: Laura Driscoll , illustrated by: Jill Weber - (Grosset & Dunlap, 2003) 32 pages.

In this installation of the Smart About? series, student Annie Marcus has chosen her favorite scientist, George Washington Carver, as the subject of her assignment. Through Annie’s journal, which includes great illustrations and photographs, readers learn that George Washington Carver was one of the first farmers to introduce crop rotation for better and healthier crops. He also pioneered the commercial use of peanuts, including the invention of peanut butter!

Find Smart About – George Washington Carver, The Peanut Wizard at your local library.

What Presidents Are Made Of

by: Hanoch Piven - (Atheneum, 2004) 40 pages.

A humorous yet informative look at the U.S. Presidents in chronological order. Piven uses found objects to comprise the facial features of the presidents with hilarious results. Fun tidbits that actually stick with you!

Find What Presidents Are Made Of at your local library.

George Crum and the Saratoga Chip

by: Gaylia Taylor , illustrated by: Frank Morrison - (Lee & Low Books, 2006) 32 pages.

Growing up in the 1830s in Saratoga Springs, New York, George Crum experienced prejudice because of his mixed Native-American and African-American racial heritage. With a passion for cooking and against the odds, he landed a job as a chef at a fine restaurant frequented by an upscale clientele. He prided himself on his culinary talent and reputation, and the popularity of his cuisine grew. One day a diner complains that her French-fried potatoes, a fashionable new dish at the time, are cut too thick. In a fit of aggravation and to teach the customer a lesson, George accidentally creates the all-American snack food, potato chips. The lively and comical acrylic illustrations add to the fun of this quirky true-life story.

Perfect for: Kids who like history.

Find George Crum and the Saratoga Chip at your local library.

It’s Disgusting and We Ate It!: True Food Facts From Around the World and Throughout History

by: James Solheim , illustrated by: Eric Brace - (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 1998) 48 pages.

This book is filled with outrageous stories, facts, and fascinating tidbits about food from around the world. If your child has an interest in unique historical facts, this is the book for him.

Find It’s Disgusting and We Ate It!: True Food Facts From Around the World and Throughout History at your local library.

On the Mayflower

by: Kate Waters , illustrated by: Russ Kendall - (Scholastic, 1996) 40 pages.

What would it be like to have traveled to America on board the Mayflower? Why did people leave their homeland and come to the New World? What was it like on this long treacherous voyage? The answers to these questions and more are answered in this historical account of an apprentice boy and a passenger girl as they journeyed to Plymouth.

Find On the Mayflower at your local library.

Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World: The Extraordinary True Story of Shackleton and the Endurance

by: Jennifer Armstrong , illustrated by: Frank Hurley - (Random House, 1998) 128 pages.

This is a survival saga of the man who attempted to cross the Antarctic in 1914. Better than fictional survival stories, beautifully written, illustrated with photos that survived from the voyage, this is history as exciting adventure.

Find Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World: The Extraordinary True Story of Shackleton and the Endurance at your local library.

The Story of the Pilgrims

by: Katherine Ross , illustrated by: Carolyn Croll - (Random House Books for Young Readers, 1995) 24 pages.

The Story of the Pilgrims, a picture book, begins with the plight of a group of people who were being persecuted for their religious beliefs. Though the risks were many, the Pilgrims decided to leave England. Ross takes readers on the harsh journey to the New World and explains the suffering during the Pilgrims’ first winter. She also explores the relationships the colonists had with the Indians, and she brings the feast of the first Thanksgiving to life for primary readers.

Find The Story of the Pilgrims at your local library.

How to Be a Baby, by Me the Big Sister

by: Sally Lloyd-Jones , illustrated by: Sue Heap - (Schwartz & Wade Books/Random House Children's Books, 2007) 40 pages.

A big sister explains things you can’t do as a baby and things you can do as an older child. The humorous story and illustrations help older children appreciate their accomplishments while gaining a better understanding of younger siblings.

Perfect for: Kids who like nonfiction.

Find How to Be a Baby, by Me the Big Sister at your local library.

My Senator and Me

by: Edward M. Kennedy , illustrated by: David Small - (Scholastic Press, 2006) 56 pages.

Splash, a Portuguese water spaniel, follows his owner, Senator Edward Kennedy, through a typical day on Capitol Hill, providing commentary on what goes on there. This book is a look at our legislative process that is considerably more entertaining than most, thanks in part to David Small’s humorous illustrations. Included in the book is additional information on Senator Kennedy, Splash the water spaniel (and how to contact him by email), and the process by which a bill becomes a law.

Find My Senator and Me at your local library.

Compost, by Gosh! An Adventure With Vermicomposting

by: Michelle Eva Portman - (Flower Press, 2002) 42 pages.

What is vermicomposting? It’s a system for turning food waste into planting soil with the help of worms. Michelle Eva Portman provides a primer on the process as an entertaining story — a young girl and her mom convert a storage box into a house for their new “pets.” The box is a vermicomposting bin, and the pets are redworms. Accompanied by adorable illustrations, Compost, by Gosh! includes a how-to section for children to try composting at home.

Perfect for: Kids who like science and nature.

Find Compost by Gosh! at your local library.

Dear Children of the Earth

by: Schim Schimmel - (Northword Press, 1994) 32 pages.

This book delivers an extremely important message. It’s a letter to all children from Mother Nature, asking them to please love her as she loves them. The illustrations are absolutely stunning! Adults as well as children can benefit and will be impacted by this book.

Find Dear Children of the Earth at your local library.

Michael Recycle

by: Ellie Bethel , illustrated by: Alexandra Colombo - (Worthwhile Books, 2008) 28 pages.

Written to celebrate Earth Day (April 22), Michael Recycle recounts the adventures of a young superhero whose powers allow him to teach people about recycling. Kids will relate to this “green-caped crusader” and the idea that one person can make a difference.

Find Michael Recycle at your local library.

Recycle! A Handbook for Kids

by: Gail Gibbons - (Little, Brown Young Readers, 1992) 32 pages.

Prolific children’s author Gail Gibbons’s cartoons in primary shapes and colors illustrate how to recycle various products to cut down on the need for landfills. Paper, plastic, glass and cans — each is covered — how to recycle them, why it’s necessary and its benefits. A first-rate introduction to the world of recycling and its environmental benefits.

Find Recycle! A Handbook for Kids at your local library.

Thanksgiving Day

by: Gail Gibbons - (Holiday House, 1983) 32 pages.

Gail Gibbons has yet again written a delightful picture book that highlights the origins of the first Thanksgiving, as well as the way the celebration has evolved over the years. Gail Gibbons’ simple text and bold, beautiful pictures present both historical and current contexts in a way that satisfies the curiosity of young children.

Perfect for: Kids who like holiday.

Find Thanksgiving Day at your local library.

The Busy Body Book: A Kid’s Guide to Fitness

by: Lizzy Rockwell - (Crown Books for Young Readers, 2004) 40 pages.

In this guide to fitness, the author illustrates the parts of the body involved in being physically active: the skeleton, muscles, brain and nerves, lungs, heart, and vessels. She also explains what the body needs to fuel activity: food, water, oxygen, and rest. Finally, the author suggests activities to keep the body strong and healthy.

Perfect for: Kids who like sports and health.

Find The Busy Body Book: A Kid’s Guide to Fitness at your local library.

The Kids Summer Games Book

by: Jane Drake and Ann Love - (Kids Can Press, Ltd., 1998) 176 pages.

A perfect game guide for group leaders looking to plan summer activities, this book is extremely accessible, both for kids and adults alike. There are 150+ games included, ranging from hide-and-seek to treasure hunting to capture the flag. The book is broken up into types of games and activities, such as “Indoor Games,” which include card games and dominoes, and “Land Action” which gives us badminton, Frisbee and croquet. While “Games to Make” suggests pickup sticks and home-style bingo, “Water Games” reminds us that water safety is no game. There are also suggestions for individual activities that involve card games and magic tricks. Soft-pencil illustrations enliven the explanation of rules. Drake and Love are sisters who grew up playing these games and put their family experiences into this book, as well as their bestselling The Kids’ Summer Handbook and The Kids Campfire Book .

Perfect for: Kids who like to play games.

Find The Kids Summer Games Book at your local library.

Winter of the Ice Wizard

by: Mary Pope Osborne - (Random House, 2004) 128 pages.

If you are a fan of the Magic Tree House series, you are sure to love Mary Pope Osborne’s next adventure into the magical frozen land of the Ice Wizard. Jack and Annie are summoned by their friends from Camelot — Teddy and Kathleen — to help solve the mystery of the disappearance of Merlin and Morgan Le Fay. The team is equipped with only two things to help them: a mysterious rhyme from the Ice Wizard and a magical rope. Will they find Merlin and Morgan Le Fay? Are you brave enough to travel along?

Find Winter of the Ice Wizard at your local library.

by: Jane Yolen , illustrated by: John Schoenherr - (Philomel Books, 1987) 32 pages.

This exquisitely written story about a special adventure between a young daughter and her father during a quiet winter night is an absolute treasure. Owl Moon  won the 1988 Caldecott Medal. Find Owl Moon at your local library.

Ladybug Girl

by: Jackie Davis , illustrated by: David Soman - (Dial Books, 2008) 40 pages.

Everybody’s busy: Lulu’s older brother won’t let her tag along because she is too “little,” and Mom and Dad don’t have time. What’s a girl to do? Enter Lulu’s alter ego: Ladybug Girl. Complete with wings and a ladybug polka-dot skirt, Lulu and her faithful sidekick, the family basset hound who is never too busy, go off on their own adventures saving the yard from danger. With wonderful illustrations accompanying the hilarious text, Ladybug Girl is one of my favorite picture books. It is a riotous read.

Find Ladybug Girl at your local library.

Bartholomew and the Oobleck

by: Dr. Seuss - (Random House, 1949) 48 pages.

Hilarious Seussian text and zany pictures to match. A great pleasure to read aloud. Questions the wisdom of tampering with nature. May prompt discussion about weather. The merits of apologizing are pointed out through well-crafted writing.

Find Bartholomew and the Oobleck at your local library.

Actual Size

by: Steve Jenkins - (Houghton Mifflin, 2004) 34 pages.

There are many books about animals for children, but none that provide information about their relative sizes in such a meaningful way. Caldecott-winning author Jenkins uses his unique cut- and torn-paper illustrations to show readers the “actual size” of a collection of animals. Smaller creatures like the atlas moth fit comfortably on the page, but the head of the saltwater crocodile requires a fold-out, and the head of the Siberian tiger extends off of two large pages! Text is minimal, usually restricted to statistics about the size of each of the creatures illustrated, but there are additional notes about each of the animals at the end of the book.

Find Actual Size at your local library.

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50 Must-Read Books for Second Graders

by AuthorAmy

Welcome to Amy’s Bookshelf! Here, teachers will find carefully curated book lists for each grade level from kindergarten to twelfth grade. Moving forward, new lists filled with book recommendations will be published weekly. Sometimes, these lists will be organized around a specific theme, like a holiday or seasonal event. Other times, they will feature rockstar books – books practically guaranteed to get your students reading. 

Before jumping into reading recommendations, a few words about how books are selected.

First, it is so important that teachers prioritize reading interest over reading level. Students will often choose to read well above or below their reading level if they are particularly interested in a book or topic. Teachers only hurt students by limiting them to a specific selection of titles grouped according to an arbitrary number or level. Think of the books on these lists as starting places for you and your students, but if a student wants to read up (or down), that is a-ok.

Also, please note that these lists lean heavily toward modern selections as opposed to the classics many teachers are familiar with. A true renaissance is happening in children’s literature today, and the books coming out are truly exciting. One of the factors that makes this such an exciting time for kid lit is how diverse the selections are in terms of genre, characters and subject matter. These lists will feature fiction and nonfiction selection as well as graphic novels, novels written in verse, and more.

Any book list or classroom library worth its salt includes books featuring LGBTQIA+ characters, racially diverse characters, characters with disabilities, characters in the foster care system, characters from a wide variety of socioeconomic and religious backgrounds, and so on. Importantly, the diversity of the characters doesn’t always need to be the focus of the literature – in other words, a book featuring a black character or gay character doesn’t need to be about those individuals exploring their blackness or their gayness; those characters can have kid problems that apply to all children regardless of their race or sexual orientation. Similarly, students should be encouraged to read stories featuring people of diversity all year long – not just during a month set aside to celebrate a specific heritage.

One final note: today’s children’s literature does not shy away from frank discussions of gender, race, sex, sexuality, abuse, mental illness, and more – nor should it. I will not censor books from these lists based on these controversial areas. What books you recommend will depend on the specific district you work in and your clientele. I encourage you and your students to read widely without fear.

Second grade

This second-grade list contains a healthy mix of picture books and chapter books as elementary-aged students are stretching their reading wings and growing into reading independently. While second-graders may be more capable of reading on their own, they still love to hear stories out loud from the adults in their lives – and hearing stories outloud reinforces their growth as independent readers.

Just so you know, Bored Teachers may get a small share of the sales made through the links on this page.

1. Hello Lighthouse

by Sophie Blackall

Get it HERE .

Hello Lighthouse won the 2019 Caldecott Medal for exemplary illustrations in a picture book. This surprisingly emotional story tells the tale of a lighthouse keeper and his family. It’s outstanding.

2. Most Magnificent Thing

by Ashley Spires

A young girl has an idea for a new invention – a magnificent thing! She works hard to build her invention but can’t get it quite right. She gets mad and quits. She takes her dog for a walk and comes back to the project with renewed vigor and gets it just right! It’s a great story that teaches about the power of perseverance.

3. What Do You Do With an Idea?

by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom

This book explores the creative process and the ephemeral, uncertain way in which we are struck with new ideas. A young boy has an idea, but he doesn’t know exactly what to do with it. Soon he feels comfortable sharing his idea, and while some people laugh, others understand. Readers learn to trust their ideas and see them through to fruition.

4. The Princess in Black

by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Princess Magnolia is a dainty lady by day but the Princess in Black in secret. In her alter ego, she fights monsters and saves the day. This is the first book in a series of chapter books perfect for showing readers you don’t have to fit into a traditional role but can make it your own.

5. Firefly July

by Paul B. Janeczko, illustrated by Melissa Sweet

Thirty-six short poems explore the seasons in Firefly July. This is a great book that can act as a mentor text for students beginning to write their own short poems, too.              

6. The Hundred Dresses

by Eleanor Estes, illustrated by Louis Slobodkin

This is the story of a young girl named Wanda who is bullied by her classmates for wearing the same dress every day. Eventually, Wanda leaves the school and her classmates feel terrible. This was originally published in 1945 and was named a Newbery Honor Book.

7. The Paper Bag Princess

by Robert Munsch, illustrated by Michael Martchenko

The traditional fairy tale trope is turned on its head in this story as princess Elizabeth sets out to rescue Prince Ronald from a fierce dragon. It’s empowering and fun.

8. Feel the beat

by Marilyn Singer, illustrated by Kristi Valiant

This is a fantastic poetry collection in which the poems are written to mimic the style of various forms of dance, everything from hip-hop to samba. It makes the music of other cultures highly accessible and is just a ton of fun, too.

9. All the Colors of the Earth

by Sheila Hamanaka

This book celebrates both nature’s beauty and human diversity by comparing human skin and hair colors to the nature’s scenery and landscapes. It’s written in rhyming, poetic text that makes it a lovely read-aloud.

10. Billy Twitters and his Blue Whale Problem

by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Adam Rex

Billy isn’t following the rules at home, so his parents get him a pet whale as a punishment. Now Billy has to care for his blue whale, which includes taking it for walks through the hilly streets of San Francisco. It’s a ridiculous premise that delivers lots of laughs.

11. Joseph Had a Little Overcoat

by Simms Taback

This is an interactive book which is great to read with a child. Joseph has an old coat full of holes (these are actual holes in the book). Rather than just throwing the coat away, he turns it into something else.

12. A Bear Called Paddington

by Michael Bond, illustrated by Peggy Fortnum

A Bear Called Paddington has been a staple of children’s literature since 1958. It’s about a bear, originally from Peru, who winds up in London with the Brown family. This is the first in a series of novels starring Paddington and his adventures.

13. Bunnicula

by Deborah and James Howe

Howard, a pet dog, and his friend Chester, a pet cat, are a bit concerned when a baby bunny is added to the family. The bunny turns out to be a vampire bunny, and Chester and Howard set out to save their family from Bunnicula. It’s hilarious so a great choice for emerging readers.

14. Heckedy Peg

by Audrey Wood, illustrated by Don Wood

The authors of Heckedy Peg have created a modern fairy tale reminiscient of the Brothers Grimm. A mother leaves her seven children at home, each named for a day of the week, while she goes to the local village. A witch turns the children into food, and when the mother gets home, she has once chance to guess which child is which food item to get her children back.

15. The Lion and the Mouse

by Jerry Pinkney

This wordless picture book is a retelling of one of Aesop’s fables. A lion spares a small mouse, who returns one day to help the lion out of a hunter’s net. The moral is that no act of kindness is ever wasted. The illustrations are simply beautiful.

16. Not All Princesses Dress in Pink

by Jane Yolen, E. Y. Stemple, illustrated by Anne-Sophie Lanquetin                                                                                   

This empowering story shows girls playing baseball, climbing trees, and stomping in mud puddles – all while wearing tiaras! It’s a great way to encourage young readers to get outside and be active.

17. The Boy and the Whale

by Mordicai Gerstein

A boy finds a whale entangled in a net. Remembering the time when he almost drown ed as a child, he determines he will save the whale. The author based this story on a new report of a whale rescue.

18. The Princess and the Warrior: A Tale of Two Volcanoes

by Duncan Tonatiuh

Princess Izta rejects all her suitors until the warrior Popoca pledges his love to her. She gives him her hand, though her father isn’t sure. Popoca is told he may marry the princess if he can defeat the neighboring ruler. Popoca battles Jaguar Claw and ultimately wins, but the defeated ruler tricks Izta into falling into a poisoned sleep. Popoca, devestated, lays down beside her. Legend has it that both became sleeping volcanoes.

19. Drum Dream Girl

by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Rafael López

Drum Dream Girl was inspired by Millo Castro Zaldarriaga, a Chinese-African-Cuban girl who became a drummer in Cuba, defying the taboo against girl drummers. In this story, a girl grows up hearing that girls can’t be drummers, so she practices in secret. When the village hears her music, the taboo is broken.

20. Infinity and Me

by Kate Hosford, illustrated by Gabi Swiatkowska

A young girl named Uma ponders the concept of infinity, an abstract concept made much easier to grasp by the examples in the book.

21. On a Beam of Light

by Jennifer Berne, illustrated by Vladimir Radunsky

This is one of many, many picture book biographies that have been released in the last decade. On a Beam of Light tells the story of a young Einstein as he becomes the genuis we know him as.

22. The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos

by Deborah Heiligman, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

This picture book biography is about mathematician Paul Erdos, a genius who traveled the world collaborating on math projects. Young readers see the world numerically, through Paul’s eyes as the book also explores various mathematical concepts.

23. Wild About Books

by Judi Sierra, illustrated by Marc Brown

Molly McGrew drives the bookmobile – and one day, she drives it straight to the zoo! The animals are eager to check out the books, and the whole story is written in fantastic rhyming text with lots of allusions to popular texts.

24. Diary of a Wombat

by Jackie French, illustrated by Bruce Whatley

The book is quite literally what the title suggests – it’s the diary of a wombat who records his daily activities, especially his efforts to get nearby humans to feed him. The text is funny and contains a message about the importance of not feeding wildlife.

25. We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball

by Kadir Nelson

We Are the Ship could be just another nonfiction picture, but having an unnamed narrator tell the story of the Negro Leagues makes the reader feel incredibly close to the narrative, as if they are sitting on the back porch listening to someone tell the story. This book beautifully tells the story of players and owners who fought against segregation to make the Negro League baseball a reality.

26. Alligator Pie written

by Dennis Lee, illustrated by Frank Newfeld

Poet Dennis Lee is known as “Canada’s Father Goose,” and the classic book Alligator Pie is why. This is a quirky poetry collection featuring Lee’s well-known verses such as the popular “Willoughby Wallaby Woo.”

27. Library Lion

by Michelle Knudson, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes

Library Lion was published in 2009, but it has a much more timeless feel, like it belongs to the era of The Velveteen Rabbit. In this story, the strict librarian doesn’t quite know what to do when a lion wanders into her library – after all, he doesn’t actually break any of her rules. In the end, the lion saves the day and wins over the librarian.

28. Stellaluna

by Janell Cannon

A fruit bat named Stellaluna is separated from her mother in an owl attack and lands in a bird’s nest. This educational story teaches the differences between bats and birds, as Stellaluna learns the same.

29. Magic School Bus In the Time of the Dinosaurs

by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen

Ms. Frizzle is the science teacher everyone wants to have. Instead of just teaching science, she loads up her class in the trusty old magic school bus and takes her students on an array of adventures. The entire Magic School Bus series is incredibly fun and educational. In this particular title, the bus transforms into a time machine and the Frizzle’s students travel back in time to meet dinosaurs face-to-face.

30. Magic Treehouse #1 Dinosaurs Before Dark

by Mary Pope Osborne

The Magic Treehouse series is a bestselling chapter book series about two children named Jack and Annie who discover a tree house filled with books. As it turns out, the tree house is magic and transports the siblings back in time. Throughout the series, Jack and Annie visit pirates, ninjas, Vikings, dinosaurs, and much more.

31. Winnie the Pooh

by A.A. Milne and illustrated by Ernest H. Shepard

Winnie-the-Pooh debuted in 1926 and since then has been a perennial favorite for generations. This is the first in a series of Pooh books. It’s a simple chapter book perfect for children ready to start reading longer books on their own.

32. Amelia Bedelia

by Peggy Parish, illustrated by Fritz Siebel

Amelia Bedelia is hired by the Rogers family as their new housekeeper. She’s eager to please – so eager, in fact, that she interprets all of Mrs. Rogers’ instructions quite literally. When instructed to dress the chicken, Amelia Bedelia quite literally puts the chicken in clothes. This, and all subsequent Amelia Bedelia books is a fun introduction to figures of speech and the idiosyncracies of the English language.

33. Amazing Grace

by Mary Hoffman, illustrated by Caroline Binch

Young Grace loves stories, and she loves to act out her favorite parts. When the school announces a production of Peter Pan, Grace decides she wants to be Pan himself. Her classmates tell her she can’t play Peter, because she’s a girl, and she’s black. Grace is determined, and her audition for Peter leaves no one doubting she’s meant for the role.

34. The Scar

by Charlotte Moundlic and illustrated by Olivier Tallec

The Scar is a portrait of grief, a story in which a young boy learns his mother has died and becomes terrified he will forget her. It’s excruciating to read, but powerful and unflinching for children who need it.

35. Balloons over Broadway

by Melissa Sweet

Balloons Over Broadway is a delightful history lesson about Tony Sarg, the man who turned puppets upside down and invented the famous balloons in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

36. Pop! The Invention of Bubble Gum

by Meghan McCarthy

This book chronicles the invention of a new kind of gum – gum that can be used to blow bubbles. The text is also filled with fun facts about the history of chewing gum.

37. The Boo-Boos That Changed the World

by Barry Wittenstein and illustrated by Chris Hsu

Quite similar to Pop! The Invention of Bubble Gum , The Boo-Boos That Changed the World  tells the story of an iconic American invention – the Band-Aid! It’s a narrative with a nice mix of accessible, humorous text and historical information.

38. Boys of Steel: The Creators of Superman

by Marc Tyler Nobleman, illustrated by Ross MacDonald

Writer Jerry Siegel and illustrator Joe Shuster worked together to create the character of Superman. It’s a great biography filled with facts to introduce readers to one of America’s most enduring superheros.

39. Clementine

by Sara Pennypacker, illustrated by Marla Frazee

This is the first book in a series featuring Clementine, a character reminiscent of Ramona Quimbly or Junie B. Jones. The first Clementine book chronicles the title character’s disastrous week.

40. Great Joy

by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline

Great Joy is a story for a cozy winter night when a reader wants to feel the Christmas spirit. It’s a quiet tale of young Frances. Frances sees a homeless organ grinder and his monkey appear outside her window, witnesses them sleeping outside in the cold. On the day of Frances’ Christmas pageant, she is inspired to perform a simple act of kindness that brings the organ grinder great joy.

41. The Miniature World of Marvin and James

by Elise Broach, illustrated by Kelly Murphy

James has a best friend named Marvin – and Marvin is a beetle. James goes on vacation and has to leave Marvin at home, which means poor Marvin spends the vacation worrying about whether their friendship will be the same when James returns. This is the first book in a series.

42. Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus

by Barbara Park

Kindergartner Junie B. Jones is not happy at all about having to ride the bus to school. She hates everything about the bus, from the kids to the smell of the exhaust. So, once at school, Junie B. Jones finds a way to get out of riding the bus back home. This is also the first book in a series featuring the same character.

43. Dory Fantasmagory

by Abby Hanlon

Dory’s older siblings ignore her, so she turns to her imagination to have fun. She invents wacky adventures that are sure to make readers laugh.

44. Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things

by Lenore Look and illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Alvin Ho features an Asian-American protagonist who is afraid of absolutely everything. While he never says a word at school, at home he plays the superhero known as Firecracker Man. Alvin Ho is the main character in a series of books featuring his adventures.

45. After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again)

by Dan Santat

This book is all about overcoming fears, dusting yourself off, and trying again. Humpty Dumpty is a birdwatcher, which is why he was sitting on the wall in the first place. After his great fall, he’s too scared to do the things he loved and must find a way to conquer his fears.

46. Hey Wall

by Susan Verde and illustrated by John Parra

A young boy rallies his community to create a mural on an ugly, graffiti-covered wall in his neighborhood. It’s a story told in verse and will inspire young readers to understand the power they have to make a difference in the world.

47. A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars

by Seth Fishman and illustrated by Isabel Greenberg

This book tackles big numbers – really, really big numbers, such as the hundred billion trillion stars in the universe that inspire the title. It helps readers get a handle on numbers when they move beyond the concrete to the abstract realm of almost too many to count.

by Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead and illustrated by Nicholas Gannon

Last time Livy visited her grandmother in Australia, she told a creature known as Bob to hide in the closet and that, upon her return, she would help him find his family and his home. Now that Livy is back, it’s time she keeps her promise. This is a really nice chapter book with a touch of magical realism.

49. A Different Pond

by Bao Phi, illustrated by Thi Bui

A Different Pond was named a Caldecott Honor Book in 2018. It tells the story of a father and son who fish for their food in a Minnesota pond. While they fish, the father tells the son the story of his fishing in his homeland in Vietnam.

by Cynthia Rylant and illustrated by Brendan Wenzel

A variety of animals discuss what they love about life in a picture book that is simple and hopeful in tone. At its heart, it’s about overcoming adversity and finding beauty in the every day.

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Best Books for Second-Graders

Age 7 or 8 is a time when kids have a huge range of reading levels. Some are really ready for chapter books, while others are just getting the hang of storytime in general. The challenge at this age is finding good books they'll stick with. Humor and family stories, as well as mystery and fantasy tales, are great for second graders, and we've got plenty of each. Some are series , which are a great way to provide hours of reading and adventure and get early readers hooked on their favorite characters. So check these out, and when your kid is ready, try these books for third graders .

The Boxcar Children Series

Engaging classic mystery series great for beginning readers.

Charlotte's Web

Gentle, much-loved barnyard classic delights all ages.

Half Magic: Tales of Magic, Book 1

Delightful, charming classic has adventure, humor, heart.

The Magic School Bus Series

Smart science-based series mixes facts and fun.

Ramona the Pest

Ramona tale helps young kids build empathy.

Secrets of Droon Series

Simple but inventive series great for first fantasy reading.

The Best of Iggy: Iggy, Book 1

Funny look at boy whose impulsive ideas get the best of him.

Black Brother, Black Brother

Boy challenges school bully in exciting sports story.

The Blossoming Universe of Violet Diamond

Sweet tale of biracial girl in search of lost family.

The City of Ember

Part fantasy, part mystery, part treasure hunt.

Strange, surreal tale sure to creep kids out.

Dragons in a Bag, Book 1

Exciting tale of New York kid's journey to magical world.

Enola Holmes: The Case of the Missing Marquess: The Enola Holmes Mysteries, Book 1

Teen girl detective is a fun twist on famous family name.

Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures

Funny, poignant tale of cynical girl, superpowered squirrel.

From the Desk of Zoe Washington

Girl works to clear her father of a crime in smart tale.

Goblin Secrets

Orphan boy seeks lost brother in exciting, funny tale.

A Good Kind of Trouble

Girl learns to be brave in triumphant coming-of-age tale.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone: Harry Potter, Book 1

Magical start of the fantastic boy-wizard series.

Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition

Powerful true story of African American women at NASA.

The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom

Engaging fairy tale spoof is clever and funny.

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• Funny Books for Kids
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• Graphic Novels and Memoirs
• How to Raise a Reader
• How Comics Helped My Kid Love Reading
• Help Your Kids Find Books with Diverse Characters

• Book Reviews
• Writing Guides

3 Steps on How To Write A Book Review In 2nd Grade

Do you remember writing book reviews in school? It’s an important part of learning how to express yourself and your thoughts. Learning how to write a book review as a 2nd grader can be both exciting and challenging! This article will provide guidance on how to write a great book review at the 2nd grade level that captures the reader’s attention while providing an engaging experience for those who have a subconscious desire for safety. We also have other guides on how to write book reviews for elementary and grammar school grades , as well.

The first step is understanding what makes up the foundation of writing a good school book review : research. Researching key elements such as characters, plot themes, settings, and more will help ensure that your review offers comprehensive coverage of the text. Furthermore, it will give readers an insight into why you liked or disliked certain aspects of the story.

And finally, when putting together your final draft, make sure to use creative language and structure that appeals to your target audience. By focusing on how well-written sentences flow together and emphasizing vivid details about the story, you’ll create something truly special that others are likely to enjoy reading!

1. Researching The Book

Researching the book is an important step in writing a book review. To start, you’ll want to find out some basic information about the book. What’s the title? Who wrote it? How long is it? You could even look up reviews from other people who have read it. All of this will come in handy when you start putting your thoughts together!

Next, take some time to really get into the story and characters. As you’re reading, jot down any questions that pop into your head or ideas that excite you. It may be helpful to keep track of what page numbers these notes are on so you can go back and refer to them later. If there are terms or words you don’t understand, take note of those too so you can research their meaning afterward.

Now that you’ve done all this work researching the book, it’s time to move on to creating your review! Take all your notes and use them as inspiration for forming opinions about different aspects of the story - like plot twists or character development - as well as how much fun it was overall. Putting everything together should help make writing your review easier and more enjoyable!

2. Understanding The Writing Process

The second step in writing a book review is understanding the writing process. It’s important for 2nd graders to learn that their thoughts and ideas are valid, and should be expressed with confidence. This can be done by researching the book they’re reviewing, brainstorming what they enjoyed or didn’t enjoy about it, and then creating an outline of their thoughts before beginning to write. Here are some tips for 2nd graders to help them understand the writing process:

First, have your child read through the entire book so they know what it’s about and can recall details when needed. Second, encourage them to take notes on any topics or characters that stood out while reading - this will make it easier to organize their thoughts later during the outlining phase. Finally, provide support as they work through crafting their reviews - ask questions such as “How do you think other readers would feel after finishing this book?”

By following these steps, 2nd grade students will gain an appreciation of how written works are created - something essential for lifelong learning success! Additionally, breaking down the review into manageable pieces helps them create a cohesive thought structure without feeling overwhelmed. It also allows them to practice taking responsibility for themselves by understanding that each part of the process requires diligence and care from start to finish.

Writing a book review gives children an opportunity to flex their creative muscles in ways beyond traditional classroom assignments. With hard work and guidance from adults, young learners can discover new techniques for expressing themselves through words – skills which will serve them well throughout life.

3. Crafting The Book Review

When crafting a book review, it’s important to remember the 2nd grade expectations. This means using language that is appropriate for the age level, as well as following basic guidelines and instructions. For example, make sure each point of your review covers one main idea or concept.

Organization is key when writing a book review. Make sure that your thoughts are structured logically and transition nicely from one topic to the next. Your teacher may provide you with specific questions to answer in your review; be sure to follow them closely so you can get the most out of your work. Additionally, take note of grammar rules like proper punctuation and capitalization - these will help you produce a polished piece of writing!

Writing an effective book review doesn’t have to be difficult or intimidating if you keep things organized and clear-cut. Don’t forget about spelling either: double check all words before submitting your paper! Following these simple steps will ensure that you craft an enjoyable book review that meets 2nd grade standards without too much stress or hassle.

In conclusion, writing a book review in 2nd grade can be an exciting and rewarding experience for students. By following the research, understanding the writing process, and crafting their own reviews, young readers will gain valuable skills that they can use throughout their academic career. Additionally, they’ll learn how to express themselves effectively while forming opinions on books they read. Writing reviews teaches children to analyze stories with critical eyes and encourages them to find new ways of looking at literature. It’s also a great way to develop reading comprehension skills and deepen appreciation for different types of genres. While it may seem daunting at first, once children get started with this fun exercise, they’re sure to enjoy the creative process!

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The 20 Best Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

Finding great chapter books for 2nd graders can be a challenge. You want to make sure your students have books at their reading level, but you also want to make sure they’ve got a good selection of books that will hold their interest. That’s why I created this book list for 2nd graders.

20 Awesome 2nd Grade Chapter Books

Whether you are trying to find the perfect book for your own reader or working to fill your classroom library, these chapter books are sure to engage and excite your second-grade readers.

To help you determine which books are the best fit for your kiddos, I shared a short summary of the book and the reading level. When possible, I also shared links to a literature circle companion pack to help save you prep time. Read more about what these book studies look like here.

I know your second graders will love these great stories! 

1. Magic Tree House #1: Dinosaurs Before Dark by Mary Pope Osborne

This chapter book series is perfect for 2nd grade readers, and they’re really engaging.

In this book, readers are introduced to Jack and Annie, two kids who have discovered a magic tree house in the woods behind their home.

The treehouse transports them back to the time of dinosaurs, and they’ve got to figure out how to solve a mystery and get back before their parents notice they are gone.

This story offers so many opportunities to make connections between reading comprehension and science topics, as the book blends factual information about dinosaurs throughout the plotline. The entire chapter book series follows suit offering great ways to make cross-curricular connections to science and social studies topics.

Reading Level:

• Guided Reading: M

Get the No Prep Novel Study:   Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark  Novel Study

2. Katie Woo & Friends by Fran Manushkin

If you’re looking for some books for your 2nd-grade girls, check out the Katie Woo series. These short, easy-to-read chapter books are approachable for your lower-level second-grade readers. This story follows the main character, Katie. She’s a friendly first grader who faces many of the same challenges your students experience in their everyday lives. In this book, Katie and her best friends do everything together and find ways to work through their differences to keep their friendship going strong.

As a teacher, I love that this realistic fiction book has lots of illustrations and is just a few chapters. It really gives readers a great introduction to chapter books.

• Below-level
• Guided Reading: H

3. My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Styles Gannett

My Father’s Dragon  is a chapter book about Elmer, 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.

Facing danger and braving challenges are consistent components of this story, which is presented as a story told to the narrator by his father many years ago. Using only everyday objects he has in his backpack, Elmer disarms the many dangerous animals of Wild Island on his journey.

The book has beautiful illustrations, which are great for visualizing and supporting early readers. Perfect for teaching character traits and sequencing, this story is truly a gem that will stick with your readers for years to come.

• Guided Reading: N

Get the No Prep Book Study:   My Father’s Dragon  Book Study

4. Keena Ford & the Second Grade Mix-up by Melissa Thomson

Exposing your students to diverse characters is important, but it can be hard to find chapter books for 2nd graders that offer that opportunity. This book is one of my favorites.

The story revolves around a girl named Keena Ford, who is a second-grader. When she finds herself accidentally thrust into adventures, a great story ensues.

This book has great black & white illustrations and a relatable main character that is sure to capture your reader’s attention and leave them wanting more.

The good news? There’s a whole chapter book series about Keena Ford and her adventures.

• Guided Reading: K

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 awesome because it has a clear, well-developed plot. There are many opportunities to discuss critical reading comprehension skills as the Littles work to navigate the world at their size.

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. As you can probably tell, I love it when there’s a whole chapter book series because it means I’ve opened a whole new book list for second-grade students just by introducing them to this one novel.

Get the No Prep Novel Study: The Littles Novel Study

6. Hi! Fly Guy by Tedd Arnold

I’ve already shared some great chapter books for girls, but this one is a perfect 2nd grade chapter book for the boys in your class.

Hi! Fly Guy  is a hilarious fiction novel that uses a lot of great sight words and easily decoded vocabulary. The story follows Buzz as he enters a fly into a pet talent show. His parents and the judges aren’t quite sure about a fly as a pet, but Fly Guy steals the show.

Fly Guy is just gross enough that kids love him, and you’ll love watching your readers devour this chapter book. This is another great book series to add to your 2nd grade collection.

• Guided Reading: I

7. Nate the Great by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat

This somewhat silly mystery was a favorite of mine back in the day, and now I love sharing it with students.

The story revolves around Nate the Great and his hunt for Annie’s missing picture. Nate’s detective skills have helped him find lost balloons, books, slippers, and more so he’s sure he can find Annie’s picture. Students follow Nate’s quest for clues, as he works to unravel the mystery.

The book has a fun ending and is a great introduction to mystery books for 2nd grade students. It is truly a must-have for your book collection.

Get the No Prep Book Study:   Nate the Great Book Study

8. Henry & Mudge – The First Book of Their Adventure by Cynthia Rylant

Cynthia Rylant i is an amazing author, and this book is perfect for your second-grade students.

Your kiddos will love to watch Henry and Mudge’s relationship develop and see how Henry’s loneliness vanishes when he finds the companionship of his new 180 pound best friend.

A great way to build in literature circles for your barely on-level readers, this story is great for animal lovers and offers a whole series of engaging stories.

• Guided Reading: J

9. Mercy Watson to the Rescue by Kate DiCamillo

Kate DiCamillo is an amazing author! I am a huge fan of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane and Because of Winn-Dixie and was so excited to see that she wrote books for younger readers.

Mercy Watson is a pig, but to his owners, he’s not just any pig. He’s AMAZING! Everything is great until Mercy decides to get some snuggles by hopping into bed with them. When the bed breaks, his owners find themselves in trouble. Mercy heads to get the fire department, but they worry he’ll get sidetracked and they might be stuck forever.

Mercy is such a great character, and your kiddos will love this book.

10. Ivy & Bean by Annie Barrows & Sophie Blackall

Another great chapter book for your classroom, Ivy & Bean is the story of an unlikely friendship. On the outside, the girls couldn’t be more different, but once they get to know each other, they become the best of friends.

With a fun and engaging storyline and characters who could be classroom peers, Ivy & Bean is perfect for getting readers hooked on a new series.

There are lots of great opportunities to discuss cause and effect in the story, and the storyline lends itself to introducing problem and solution.

Get the No Prep Book Unit:   Ivy & Bean Book Study

11. Cam Jansen: The Mystery of the Stolen Diamonds by David Adler

Another great mystery book for 2nd grade, Cam Jansen is sure to be a winner in your classroom. Relatable characters and great adventures follow Cam as she works to solve crimes and unravel mysteries.

The gist of the story is: Cam Jansen and her friend, Eric, team up to help free an innocent man who’s been accused of robbing Parker’s Jewelry Store. The pair takes matters into their own hands as they search for clues to discover who REALLY took the missing diamonds.

• Guided Reading: L

12. Frog and Toad are Friends by Arnold Lobel

We haven’t talked much about classic books for 2nd grade students, but that ends now! Frog & Toad are Friends is a classic story that is an easy independent read for your barely on-level readers.

The story takes place in April, as Frog tries to wake his best friend Toad from his long winter nap. Once he finally awakens him, the pair have a year full of amazing adventures and continue to build their wonderful friendship. When Frog is feeling sick, Toad is there to help. When Toad is sad because he never gets mail, Frog’s there to lend a hand.

While the illustrations are pretty bland, this award-winning book is great for your beginning readers.

13. Super Narwhal & Jelly Jolt by Ben Clanton

My list wouldn’t be complete without a graphic novel, and Super Narwhal & Jelly Jolt is the perfect superhero book for your second graders.

The story contains three mini-plotlines. In the first story, Narwhal reveals his alter-ego and asks his buddy Jelly to help him discover his superpower. Then the pair then head off to help a lost friend. The final story is all about Narwhal cheering up Jelly.

With fun plotlines that center on the theme of friendship, even your reluctant readers will feel confident tackling this superhero graphic novel.

14. Junie B. Jones & the Stupid Smelly Bus by Barbara Park

This realistic fiction series of chapter books for 2nd graders has relatable characters and situations your students might have experienced themselves, making it perfect for independent reading.

The main character, Junie B. Jones, is preparing to start kindergarten when she discovers she’ll have to ride the bus. This news makes her mad, and the situation only gets worse when she actually experiences the bus for the first time.

Things get better once she arrives at school. That is until Junie finds herself in a predicament that ends with a call to 9-1-1. This text is another great one for conversations about problem and solution. You might also consider using it to discuss appropriate school behavior!

15. 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.

This original Flat Stanley book is a quick, easy read that you can connect with so many cross-curricular projects. This is a great chapter book for 2nd graders to use when working on friendly letters!

Perfect for literature circles at the end of your school year, this story offers opportunities to teach many important reading comprehension skills in an engaging format that lends itself to an engaging discussion.

Get the No Prep Book Study:   Flat Stanley Book Study

16. Horrible Harry in Room 2B by Suzy Klein

My introduction to the Horrible Harry series came when my team decided to use Horrible Harry & the Holidaze to teach about different winter holidays. These realistic fiction books are simple to read and have relatable storylines.

Horrible Harry in Room 2B is the first in this series, which will appeal to both the boys and girls in your classroom. The main character, Harry, is a bit of a troublemaker which leads to some interesting conversations with students.

The plotline revolves around Harry and his best friend, Doug. Despite his troublemaking ways, Doug sees the best in Harry and recognizes him as a true friend. This book is great for character traits discussions, as well as making comparisons between characters. The whole series is a great choice if you’re looking for chapter books for 2nd graders.

17. A to Z Mysteries: The Absent Author by Ron Roy

Ron Roy writes mysteries that draw young readers in making this a great series of chapter books for 2nd graders. In this book, Dink Duncan and his best friends discover that their favorite author, Wallis Wallace, has gone missing, and they’re on the hunt to find him…even if the police don’t believe their story.

As they hunt down clues and get closer to the kidnapper, they discover the unexpected.

This is a great mystery that your students can follow along with and track the clues right along with Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose. The whole series is really interesting and the book titles progress from A to Z – hence the series title, A to Z Mysteries .

Buy the book: A to Z Mysteries: The Absent Author

Get the No Prep Book Unit:   A to Z Mysteries: The Absent Author Book Unit

18. Dog Man by Dav Pilkey

As the second superhero book on the list, this story by celebrated author, Dav Pilkey, is a great story for your advanced readers. If your readers are itching to read Captain Underpants , they’ll love this graphic novel.

The main characters George and Harold create a new kind of superhero, and this one is half-man and half-dog. With a human body and canine head, this unlikely hero fights to defeat his archnemesis, Petey the Cat.

A great chapter book for reluctant readers, this book is perfect for boys in your classroom.

• Guided Reading: P

19. The Real Slam Dunk by Charisse K. Richardson

A lot of books for this level focus on topics of interest to girls. Between female main characters and storylines that revolve around girls, it can be hard to find some great chapter books for 2nd graders who are boys. The Real Slam Dunk is a great chapter book for the high-reading boys in your class

This book revolves around Marcus, a boy who wants to be a pro basketball player when he grows up. When his class is about to meet a real-life professional basketball player, Marcus can barely contain his excitement. However, when the day comes, he learns some unexpected lessons about both school and sports.

Another great story with diverse characters, you’ll love the lessons this book can provide to your reluctant or disengaged learners.

20. Gooney Bird Green e by Lois Lowry

Want a funny book for second graders that will keep your students talking? This is it!

Written by the award-winning author of The Giver , Gooney Bird Greene is the story of a girl who loves to be the center of attention. A natural storyteller with a unique fashion sense, Gooney Bird wants to be in the middle of everything.

Problems arise when Gooney Bird’s desire for attention keeps her from realizing her peers deserve to share, too.

This funny series of chapter books for 2nd graders has so many great lessons, and it is such an engaging story.

Ready to Plan Your 2nd Grade Novel Study?

Now that you’re here, grab your favorite chapter books for 2nd graders and my free novel study planning roadmap to get step-by-step support to plan a high-quality literature unit for your second-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 for using chapter books to teach reading, you’ll love this great tool.

Looking for more great chapter books to add to your library?

If you’ve got a broad range of reading levels or are trying to diversify your classroom library without spending a ton of money , here are some of my favorite books for other reading levels.

If you’ve already filled your book list for 2nd grade, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered. Check out the links below to access more great novels and chapter books for other grade levels.

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50 Best 2nd Grade Books for Summer Reading

This post may contain affiliate links.

Want a list of the best 2nd grade books for summer reading? Yes, it’s time for summer reading lists & summer reading programs . And if you’re looking for good chapter books for kids going into the second grade or even leaving 2nd grade, these 2nd grade books will keep your young readers reading throughout the summer, developing and practicing their reading skills with excellent books.

As you know, the more a 2nd grade child reads, the more vocabulary they’ll learn and the more they will improve comprehension skills. This adds up to overall improved reading skills. (With the exception of a learning difference situation.)

So whether or not you do a summer reading program or just read on your own, you’ll find great 2nd grade books to read over summer on this list. From funny to fantasy, there’s a good 2nd grade book (or five) for every interest.

A quick note about me — I’m a former teacher and literacy trainer, a parent of two, a writer, and a book reviewer. Every year, I read over 1,000 books, including all the books on this list so that I can provide you with the best curated book lists for your readers.

Download the free printable of this summer reading list. NOTE: If you don’t see the printable sign-up below, please clear your cache and try again.

These books will generally work for children ages 7 or 8 who are entering second grade . For all my book reviews for each 2nd grade book, visit Best Books for 2nd Graders, 7-Year Olds .

But how do you know how to tell if a book is just right for your young reader to read? Do the 5 Finger Test . If on one page, your child misses more than five words, save the book for later. If they miss zero words, it’s an easy book. Missing between one and five words usually means the book will be a good choice to read; a choice that the 2nd grader will be able to comprehend.

If you specifically need advanced 2nd grade books, visit to my 3rd grade summer reading list .

If you need easier 2nd grade books, visit my 1st grade summer reading list .

Remember, it’s good for kids to read books that are JUST RIGHT, but there are benefits in both reading easy books and reading challenging books, too.

Download the  FREE Summer Reading Packet so your kids can set goals and keep track of what they’ve read. (Maybe even make an origami bookmark for the book you’re reading!)

SHOP THIS LIST

2nd Grade Books for Summer Reading

If your 2nd graders love graphic novels, try these 2nd grade book choices:.

• Bug Scouts Out in the Wild  by Mike Lowery
• Owly: The Way Home  by Andy Runton
• Cat Kid Comic Club by Dav Pilkey
• Bird and Squirrel on Ice by James Burks
• Cat Ninja  by Matthew Cody
• King of the Birds by Elise Gravel
• Donut Feed the Squirrels by Mika Song
• Mimi and the Cutie Catastrophe  by Shauna J. Grant
• Sky & Ty Howdy, Partner!  by Steve Breen

If your second grade reader likes FUNNY books, they’ll love:

• The Dragonsitter  by Josh Lacey
• Stick Dog by Tom Watson
• Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell by Melanie Watt 
• Real Pigeons Fight Crime by Ben Wood
• Dory Fantasmagory by Abby Hanlon
• Rabbit & Bear: Rabbit’s Bad Habits by Julian Gough & Jim Field
• Schnozzer & Tatertoes Take a Hike!  by Rick Stromosky

If your child in second grade likes MAGIC , they’ll love:

2nd graders love reading chapter books with magic or mythical creatures! Try one of these good 2nd grade books:

• Dragons and Marshmallows: Zoey and Sassafras  by Asia Citro
• Diary of an Ice Princess: Snow Place Like Home by Christina Soontornvat
• Rise of the Earth Dragon by Tracey West
• Love Puppies: Best Friends Furever  by JaNay Brown Wood
• The Fabled Stables Willa the Wisp  by Jonathan Auxier
• Dragons of Ember City: Happy Spark Day  by Shane Richardson and Sarah Marino
• Kwame’s Magic Quest: Rise of the Green Flame by Bernard Mensah

If your 2nd grader likes  ADVENTURE stories , they’ll love:  

• Magic Tree House   by Mary Pope Osborne
• Galaxy Zack   by Ray O’Ryan
• The Notebook of Doom by Troy Cummings
• Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot by Dav Pilkey
• Ivy Lost and Found by Cynthia Lord
• Mia Mayhem Is a Superhero !  by Kara West

If your 2nd grade readers like MYSTERIES , they’ll love:

• Magic Tree House The Graphic Novel Dinosaurs Before Dark by Mary Pope Osborne
• Super Detectives Simon and Chester by Cale Atkinson
• A to Z Mysteries   by Ron Roy
• Secret Spy Society The Case of the Missing Cheetah by Veronica Mang
• Mac Undercover (Kid Spy #1)   by Mac Barnett
• Crime Biters: My Dog Is Better Than Your Dog by Tommy Greenwald

If your 2nd grader loves  REALISTIC stories, try:

• Good Dog by Cam Higgins
• Too Small Tola by Atinuke
• Emmet and Jez Adventures in Fosterland  by Hannah Shaw
• The Amazing Life of Azaleah Lane by Nikki Shannon Smith
• Bear and Bird: The Picnic   by Jarvis
• Ava Lin Best Friend  by Vicky Fang

If your second grader likes NONFICTION, read:

• Go Wild! Sea Turtles  by Jill Esbaum
• Fox Explores the Night  by Martin Jenkins
• Blood! Not Just a Vampire Drink  by Stacy McAnulty
• What Do They Do With All That Poo? by Jane Kurtz
• Plants Fight Back by Lisa J. Amstutz
• The Rat by Elise Gravel
• All About Plants: Ada Twist, Scientist The Why Files  by Andrea Beaty and Dr. Theanne Griffith
• Planets  by Elizabeth Carney
• Animals in Pants  by Suzy Levinson
• Matter (Hands-On Science)  by Lola M. Schaefer

More 2nd grade reading and writing ideas: Free Summer Learning Printables for Kids Activity Books for Kids Summer Writing Ideas

Summer Reading Bingo

Summer Reading Printable Activities for Kids

Good Book Series for Kids in 2nd Grade

Summer Reading Lists for Kids

Melissa Taylor, MA, is the creator of Imagination Soup. She's a mother, former teacher & literacy trainer, and freelance education writer. She writes Imagination Soup and freelances for publications online and in print, including Penguin Random House's Brightly website, USA Today Health, Adobe Education, Colorado Parent, and Parenting. She is passionate about matching kids with books that they'll love.

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I can’t seem to find the printable book list. Please help! Thanks!

Here you go: https://imaginationsoup.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/2nd-grade-summer-reading-list-1.pdf . 🙂

I can’t find the printable book list for 1st grade please help me…..thank you so much!

https://imaginationsoup.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/1st-Grade-Summer-Reading-List-.pdf

I love, love, love that your list has books that my son would enjoy. I’ve looked at several summer reading lists for this age group and reading level, and far too many are heavy on the princesses and unicorns. Thank you for giving me a list with funny stories and adventure stories and realistic stories, too.

you’re very welcome! I hope he spends many hours in books that he loves. 🙂

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26 Best Chapter Books to Read with Your Second Graders

These 2nd-grade reading books are favorites for kids and adults. Introduce your 6-8 year-olds to the best books for second graders !

Second grade is so much fun for reading! Kids are gaining confidence in their reading skills, and are ready to branch out to some new books. But they’re still at a great stage for read-alouds. 

There are so many options for 2nd grade reading books that will introduce kids to new characters and concepts while broadening their vocabulary and improving their reading skills. Plus, you’ll get to spend so much more time together finding new favorites to love.

My son is in second grade this year and we love to snuggle on the couch with a good book. Sometimes he reads a few pages to me, and I read some to him. It’s amazing to see his confidence grow as we take on longer books. 

Reading aloud is one of my favorite parts of homeschooling. We always begin our day with reading, and it sets the tone for a great day! We’re working our way through some popular series, as well as some popular books from our library. Our daily reading time is great for our whole family to sit together and enjoy good chapter books that we might not read otherwise. 

Books are powerful tools for helping kids to develop character, as well as learn lessons for life. Second grade is the perfect time to share beloved stories as well as more contemporary books with young readers. 

Introduce your second graders to a new world of learning and fun with these best books!

In This Post

What Should My 2nd Graders Be Reading?

Over my years of homeschooling, I’ve learned that applying ages to books doesn’t work. Kids can enjoy books from all levels at different ages. My two boys are currently in second grade and fifth grade. They often enjoy the same books. 

Kids are ready for early chapter books in second grade. But they also still enjoy reading a fun picture book. Mix it up with your kids so that they are reading some books on their own, while still reading aloud as they follow along. 

Audiobooks are a great tool for kids to immerse themselves in stories. It introduces them to fun, new characters. Well-performed audiobooks are one of my favorite tools for my kids. We listen to them often while we’re working or playing around the house. 

What Are Some Good Books for Second Graders to Read?

There are so many amazing books for young children, and it can be hard to know what’s good and what isn’t. As parents, we want to make sure that our kids are not only growing in knowledge but also developing their character. 

Second graders are usually seven or eight years old, so there are certain things they’re probably not ready to read about yet. A great book for kids this age shouldn’t have scary stories, dark magic or monsters. 

They may not have a Christian or religious theme, but they should have a positive message. I don’t like books where kids disobey, talk back to their parents or misbehave. These aren’t characteristics I want my 7-year-old to learn! I also don’t like books that pit parents against their kids. 

Best chapter books for kids always include thought-provoking books that start positive conversations between parents and kids. 

26 Best 2nd Grade Books

Whether you’re reading aloud, or encouraging kids to read on their own, these good books are the perfect choice for your second-grade reader. 

Henry Huggins  by Beverly Cleary

We read a lot of books in our house, but Henry Huggins is by far our favorite! Poor Henry gets himself into and out of numerous messes in this 6-book set that includes,  Henry Huggins, Henry and Beezus, Henry and the Club House, Henry and Ribs, Henry and the Paper Route,  and  Ribsy. 

The books are great for kids of all ages, and even moms! Even after reading/listening to them several times, I still laugh out loud when Henry dyes his dog pink, hides some kittens in his jacket, and loses a football in a passing car. This is a classic series that all kids should read. 

Ramona Quimby  by Beverly Cleary

Following right behind Henry is Ramona. We met her in the Henry Huggins series, but now she has her own series where we can see the inner workings of her mind. And it’s a crazy ride! Ramona is a truly unique little girl with a huge imagination that gets her into all kinds of trouble–especially when her sister, Beezus, and her parents can’t understand her. 

The series follows Ramona from preschool through third grade. It’s a family-friendly series that will have everyone rolling with laughter. Books include  Beezus and Ramona, Ramona the Pest, Ramona the Brave, Ramona and Her Father, Ramona and Her Mother, Ramona Quimby, Age 8, Ramona Forever,  and  Ramona’s World. 

I also highly recommend the movie  Beezus and Ramona,  starring Selena Gomez and Joey King. It stays pretty true to the story, including funny bits from all eight books. 

The Magic Tree House Series  by Mary Pope Osborne

In this series, brother and sister Jack and Annie travel back in time and around the world in their magic treehouse. Each book requires them to solve a puzzle through clues that they find along the way. Kids learn all kinds of facts about history and nature in this series. 

They’re joined along the way by the magic librarian, Morgan ***, the wizard, Merlin and two young magicians named Teddy and Kathleen. There are over 30 books in the series, and our favorites include  Civil War on Sunday, Revolutionary War on Wednesday,  and  Night of the New Magicians. 

We also love  World at War: 1944 ,  which is a special super edition of from the series. 

Little House on the Prairie Series  by Laura Ingalls Wilder

This series is based on the true story of Laura Ingalls and her family who left their home in Wisconsin to settle in the west. Their family is often met with hardship, but they learn to overcome together through their courage and faith. 

At first glance, this seems like a series for girls, but my boys have loved it, too. These books are full of adventure and show kids the struggles our forefathers went through to settle our great country.

Books in this series include  Little House in the Big Woods, Little House on the Prairie, Farmer Boy,  (my personal favorite!),  On the Banks of Plum Creek, By the Shores of Silver Lake, The Long Winter, Little Town on the Prairie, These Happy Golden Years,  and  The First Four Years. 

The Dead Sea Squirrels Series  by Mike Nawrocki

If your kids like adventure stories and funny animals, this series is the perfect choice! Ten-year-old Michael is visiting an archaeological dig with his dad at the Dead Sea. When he finds some petrified squirrels, he decides to sneak them back into the US in his backpack. As it turns out, the squirrels aren’t as dead as Michael thought, and hilarious hijinks ensue!

This series is written by the co-creator of Veggie Tales, so you know it’s packed with wisdom and Bible lessons along with funny characters and adventures. The illustrations are great, too, and sure to keep kids engaged. I also love the short chapters that help kids feel accomplished while they’re reading. 

Amelia Bedelia Series  by Peggy Parish and Herman Parish

Amelia Bedelia has been a beloved character in children’s fiction for years, and she’s not stopping any time soon. She is a literal-minded housekeeper to the Rogers family who’s always getting herself into scrapes. These books are laugh-out-loud funny for kids, and should be a part of everyone’s reading journey!

The character was first created in 1963 by Peggy Parish, and her nephew Herman continued the series after her death. They are a great choice for early readers who are just being introduced to fun chapter books. 

Books include  Amelia Bedelia Helps Out, Amelia Bedelia and the Baby,  Amelia Bedelia and the Cat,  and more!

The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls Series  by M.J. Thomas

If you’re looking for a Christina alternative to  The Magic Tree House series,  check out  The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls.  In this series, Peter and Mary travel back to Biblical times where they need to find clues to solve the mysteries of the hidden scrolls. 

The books give kids a new look at their favorite Bible stories including Creation, Noah’s Ark, the ten Plagues of Egypt, Daniel in the Lion’s Den, and more!

The Mercy Watson Series  by Kate DiCamillo 

Mercy Watson is a pig, but you’d never guess it from all the adventures she has! This series is hilariously funny with bright, colorful illustrations. Mercy lives with her family on Deckawoo Drive where she rules the roost, makes friends, and solves mysteries. 

These books are a mixture of chapters and pictures with easy-to-read text. Books in the series include  Mercy Watson to the Rescue, Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride, Mercy Watson Fights Crime, Mercy Watson: Princess in Disguise, Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig, Mercy Watson: Something Wonky This Way Comes.

Encyclopedia Brown Series  by Donald J. Sobol

This series might be a little advanced for young readers to read on their own, but it’s a great choice for reading aloud! Encyclopedia Brown   is a 10-year-old super-sleuth who is always busy solving crimes!

These books are great for encouraging reading comprehension as you work alongside Encyclopedia to solve the mystery. 

The Boxcar Children  by Gertrude Warner

I loved reading  The Boxcar Children  when I was a young girl. It’s exciting to me that these books are still going strong and garnering fans years after their original publication. 

The Boxcar children are four siblings, Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny. They’re orphans who are determined to stay together, even if that means living alone in an abandoned boxcar!

In the first book, the children find their long-lost grandfather, so the rest of the series (over 160 books!) involves them going on adventures and teaching awesome lessons. 

The One and Only Ivan  by Katherine Applegate

The One and Only Ivan  has quickly become a classic favorite for kids and teachers alike. Ivan has spent 27 years behind a glass wall in a cage. When he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from the wild, he starts to see his life through new eyes. 

At first, I thought this story was a little bit strange because it’s told by the gorilla. But it grew on me! It’s an amazing story about the power of unexpected friendship–a message that’s sure to resonate with families. Other books in the series include  The One and Only Bob  and  The One and Only Ruby. 

Grandma’s Attic Treasury  by Arleta Richardson

Kids are never too young to explore historical fiction, and this series is one of my favorites! The books follow Mabel and her best friend, Sarah Jane, as they grow up on farms in a far-off, simpler time. These stories are timeless, and packed with love, faith and lots of laughs the whole family will love. 

Books in the series include  In Grandma’s Attic, More Stories from Grandma’s Attic, Still More Stories from Grandma’s Attic,  and  Treasures from Grandma.  I loved these books so much as a child. I read them all several times, including the further books that follow Mabel and Sarah Jane into high school, college, marriage and children. 

The Wild Robot Series  by Peter Brown

It can be hard to find good books that boys will love to read. But who doesn’t love a good robot story? This series begins when robot Roz opens her eyes for the first time on a remote, wild island.

She’s all alone and has to figure out how to survive on her own. The island starts to feel like home until one day her past comes back to haunt her. This book has rave reviews from mamas, teachers and kids–in fact, it’s going to be made into a movie late in 2024!

I thought this story was a little bit dark, but it had a positive message and my boys loved it! We’re excited to read the next book.

The Secret Zoo  by Bryan Chick

If you’re kids like fantasy stories or animals,  The Secret Zoo  is a great read. This fast-paced adventure is full of imagination as Noah, his sister Megan, and their friends Richie and Ella explore the Clarksville City Zoo at night. What happens at night in the zoo when all the people have gone home? 

It turns out there are a lot of secrets in the zoo. When Megan goes missing the kids must sneak into the zoo and follow the clues to find her!

Charlotte’s Web  by E.B. White 

This classic book was first published in 1952, but it’s still popular and a great read for kids of all ages. This tender story of friendship follows Wilbur the pig, and his best friend, Charlotte the spider. Charlotte is determined to save Wilbur from being served at Christmas dinner. She’ll need to get creative to do it, and that will require the help of all the barnyard animals to make it happen. 

The end of the book is bittersweet but shows us the importance of friends who are like family. 

The Mouse the Motorcycle  by Beverly Cleary

We’re big fans of Beverly Cleary in our house, and  The Mouse and the Motorcycle  is one of our faves! Ralph S. Mouse lives with his large mouse family in a motel. His life is pretty boring until a boy named Keith comes to stay. Keith brings along a toy motorcycle that’s the perfect size for a mouse to ride. Then, Ralph finds out that if he makes motorcycle noises, the motorcycle moves!

There’s plenty of adventure and excitement for Ralph as he explores the hotel on his motorcycle. But there’s also an important lesson to learn about friendship and unselfishness when Ralph betrays the trust of his new friend. 

The Green Ember Series  by S.D. Smith

I kept seeing this series everywhere, and I finally bit the bullet and got the first book. The reviews weren’t wrong! My boys loved the book, and so did I. Heather and Pickett are ordinary rabbits living a safe life with their parents and baby brother. But secrets abound, and a tragedy changes everything. 

Heather and Pickett must survive against all odds in a world they never knew existed. Can the Mended Wood become a reality?

This is a great read-aloud, and I highly recommend the audio version! Joel Clarkson does an amazing job with all the voices and makes the story really come to life. 

Tumtum and Nutmeg  by Emily Bearn

Tumtum and Nutmeg are mice who live in a dollhouse in a little cottage. They secretly take care of the two disheveled children of the house, Arthur and Lucy. But when evil Aunt Ivy comes to stay, Tumtum and Nutmeg set out on brand new adventures in the big world outside. 

This series proves that a small body can hold a big heart! It’s a sweet read to enjoy with your kids on a winter evening. 

Mrs. Piggle Wiggle  by Betty MacDonald

Mrs. Piggle Wiggle lives in an upside-down house and always smells like cookies. And she knows everything about children. If your child hates baths, won’t put away toys or eats too slowly, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle has the cure! 

We laughed a lot while reading the book, and my kids were scandalized by Mrs, Piggle Wiggle’s solutions. It’s a funny book for kids and moms to read together with a main character we can all relate to. 

The Family Under the Bridge  by Natalie Savage Carlson

This Newbery-honor-winning book is a heartwarming story about family, friendship and taking care of others. Armand is an old man living on the streets of Paris. He’s happy with his simple existence.

When he finds three children living under a bridge, he determines to take care of them. Soon he realizes he’ll do anything to help them find a home. 

Betsy-Tacy  by Maud Hart Lovelace

Betsy and Tacy live across the road from one another, and they’re best friends. Betsy is outgoing and loves to tell stories. Tacy is quiet and shy and loves to listen to Betsy’s stories. The two girls are inseparable.

In fact, no one can remember what they’re like when they’re apart. They earn the name Betsy-Tacy and have all sorts of fun and funny adventures together. 

Books in this series include  Betsy-Tacy, Betsy-Tacy and Tib, Betsy and Tacy Go Over the Big Hill, Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown, Heavens to Betsy, Betsy in Spite of Herself, Betsy Was a Junior, Betsy and Joe, Betsy and the Great World,  and  Betsy’s Wedding. 

The Penderwicks  by Jeanne Birdsall

The Penderwick sisters are excited to spend the summer on the sprawling Arundel estate in Massachusetts. While having adventures exploring the estate, eating gingerbread and playing with tame rabbits, they find Jeffrey. He’s a young boy who is the perfect companion for all of their fun. Jeffrey’s mother isn’t too happy about his new friends, but they’re determined to stay out of trouble. That shouldn’t be too hard, right?

The Cul-de-sac Kids  Collection by Beverly Lewis

These chapter books are great reading books for early readers. They’re light-hearted books about the adventures of four kids who solve mysteries and have adventures all around their neighborhood. The books are endearing and often funny as the kids get themselves into scrapes while learning about faith and family. 

The Sugar Creek Gang Series  by Paul Hutchens

If you’re looking for a great story that boys will love, the Sugar Creek Gang books are the answer! While they call themselves a gang, they’re just a group of friends who learn lessons about faith that are still relevant fifty years after they were published! Every kid can find themselves represented in the group, whether they’re a Bill, Poetry, Dragonfly, Big Jim, or Little Jim! 

I grew up reading these books and truly loved them. The series has over 30 books including  The Swamp Robber,  The Killer Bear, The Great Watermelon Mystery ( my personal favorite!),  The Chicago Adventure  and more. 

The Last Chance Detectives  by multiple authors

Looking for a fast-paced detective series that will help your kids grow their faith? Check out  The Last Chance Detectives.  This series from Focus on the Family follows four friends, Mike, Winnie, Ben and Spence, as they set out to solve strange mysteries. Their faith and friendship are tested along the way, but they won’t give up until they solve every mystery!

Glimmer Girls Series  by Natalie Grant

This sweet series from Natalie Grant is perfect to read with your daughters! It follows the adventures of three sisters, twins Mia and Maddie, and their sister Lulu as they travel around the country with their mother, singer Gloria Glimmer. They have adventures and solve mysteries while learning important lessons about faith and friendship along the way. 

These books are loosely based on Natalie and her three daughters, and they are so great to share your faith with your girls. Books in the series include  A Dolphin Wish, London Art Chase,  and  Music City Miracle. 

The 2nd Grade Book List

What do you think of this list? It’s a great mix of 2nd grade reading books for kids to read themselves, or to read together as a family. Second grade is an important time for kids in their development. Giving them plenty of good books to read is a great way to encourage good habits while they’re young. 

If you have a favorite book to read with your second grader, I’d love to hear about it! Share it in the comments below!

More Books for Kids

If your kids love to read (or you want them to love to read!) check out these other great books!

• 28 Best Valentine Books for Preschool
• 25+ Heartwarming Christian Christmas Books for Kids (2023)

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31 BEST Chapter Books for Second Graders

Last Updated on December 1, 2023 by Louisa

Choosing chapter books for second graders can be a daunting task. At this age, it’s probably the first chapter book they’ve ever read, which makes it feel even more daunting.

But it doesn’t have to feel like a chore selecting that first chapter book for second grade kids. There are a ton of really great books for 2nd graders out there that kids absolutely love.

If you’re struggling to pick that perfect 2nd grade chapter book, don’t worry, because I have picked out the best of the best.

Affiliate Disclosure : This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through any of these links. 

31 of the BEST Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

So without further ado, here are the best chapter books for 2nd graders, whether it’s their first book or their fifth, these chapter books have been written for 6-8-year-olds, perfect for 2nd-grade kids.

1. Magic Tree House Series – Mary Pope Osborne

The New York Times number one bestselling early chapter book series for 2nd graders is The Magic Tree House . The series is filled with magic, mystery, and loads of adventure.

Jack and Annie’s lives are ordinary until they chance upon a magical tree house. The treehouse allows them to travel back in time into a world full of haunted castles, treasure chests, secret maps, and solve mysteries.

They also get a glimpse into Elizabethan England and the historic American Revolution.

Will they be able to return home in time or will they have to fight the dinosaurs?

These beautifully illustrated novels paired with simple words make it the best first chapter book for second graders.

It’s been a beloved favorite of children for over 25 years, and no doubt this chapter book series will instill a lifelong love for reading in your child.

View it on:

2. The Flat Stanley Collection – Jeff Brown

What Jeff Brown narrated as a bedtime story to his sons is now a famous book worldwide.

Stanley Lambchop was an ordinary boy until one night a bulletin board fell on him and made him flat forever.

Despite being only half an inch thick but Stanley has had some amazing, silly, and fun-filled adventures all over the world.

Be it sliding through the door-slit or mailing himself across the country in a tiny envelope or be it jetting off into an invisible space to rescue aliens, is there anything that Stanley can’t do?

A delightful read with black and white illustrations for 5 to 8-year-olds. 

3. The Invisible String – Patrice Karst

With half a million copies sold worldwide, The Invisible String holds a special place in the hearts of parents, educators, and children of course!

With heart-warming cute pictures, it simplifies various mental health issues like anxiety, grief, and separation in a very child-friendly manner.

It is a story of a mother who tells her kids that we are all bound by an invisible string called Love which cannot be seen but can only be felt.

The book tells how love can conquer everything and it also beautifully addresses deeper and more difficult conversations which kids can easily relate to but feel difficult to speak about.

This is a heartfelt chapter book full of love for your little one!

4. Dog Man: Grime And Punishment – Dav Pilkey

The ninth graphic novel of the series from Dog Man series, by worldwide bestselling author Dav Pilkey , is Dog Man Grime and Punishment .

Dogman loves to solve mysteries, and your 2nd graders will love solving mysteries with him.

Will his dog pack help him tackle it or will he have to face it alone?

Set against a backdrop of kindness, empathy, and good deeds, Dog Man is filled with hilarious moments which will have your child rolling with laughter. Some moments celebrate friendship and the victory of good over evil.

An interactive, colorful, and emotional graphic novel penned creatively into comic strips, which is read and re-read by kids and parents all over the world.

This is the ideal first chapter book for second graders because it has a lot of pictures to keep them engaged.

5. The Never Girls Collection (Disney Fairies) – Kiki Thorpe

A story of four best friends who meet a fairy, and by accident are whisked to Neverland in the blink of an eye.

A cute adaptation of the fairytale world filled with magical adventures in the forest, this book is an absolute favorite with kids and especially 2nd grade girls.

A wonderful gift for readers between the age of 6-8 years old, packed in an attractive box, this will keep them immersed in a world of dreams, fairies, and loads of magical moments as they get lost in these beautiful books for hours.

With a bit of a resemblance to the ‘Peter Pan’ series, this will surely be a hit for your second-grade child.

6. The Danger Gang – Tom Fletcher

Written by the UK’s most popular children’s book author (and singer of the pop rock band McFly), Tom Fletcher, The Danger Gang is the story of Franky who is moving out of his town, leaving his best friend Dani behind.

One night a scary storm, a strange green light, and a powerful thunder changed his life forever.

All his friends change as well, becoming a bit odd and gaining magical powers. Franky is excited with his new avatar as it resembles his hero Super Spy, Zack Danger, but what lies ahead? 

With well-written characters and a gripping plot, this makes The Danger Gang an enjoyable read not just for the kids but for the entire family as well.

7. The Diary Of A Wimpy Kid – Jeff Kinney

Written by #1 New York Times bestselling author Jeff Kinney , this book needs no introduction.

Said to be a ‘Novel in Cartoons’ and a part of extra-curricular reading, this is based on the adventures of an imaginary character, Greg Heffley, an avid video-game lover, who is forced into writing a diary by his mother.

His journal illustrates his daily life, school stories, adventures on his vacations and so much more, which makes it relatable to every kid who reads it.

Every character in this book, from Greg, his mom, and even his not-so-loved dog, is beautifully written and has turned millions of kids into avid readers.

8. Gangsta Granny – David Walliams

A bestseller from the critically acclaimed author David Walliams, this is the story of Ben who is dropped off at his granny’s place every Friday as his parents go to watch a ballet.

He finds her to be incredibly boring as she only plays Scrabble and makes dishes with cabbage, which Ben isn’t fond of.

What Ben doesn’t know is that his granny was once an international thief and has been plotting all her life to steal the crown jewels with Ben’s help. But will they succeed?

A suspenseful and hilarious book with a bittersweet ending that is worth adding to your child’s book collection.

9. Fancy Nancy Series – Jane O’Connor

A beautiful children’s picture book series based on the life of Nancy, a young girl with a larger-than-life persona who loves dressing up and likes all her things to be stylish.

She isn’t too pleased with how ordinary her family is, so she hosts a class on ‘The Art of Fanciness’ for them to which they oblige.

Filled with pleasing pastel artwork, detailed illustrations, and a variety of new words, this series will help your second-grade child learn valuable life lessons from the protagonist.

A beautiful gifting option that will help enrich your child’s vocabulary in the process of enjoying this wonderfully written series.

10. Diary Of An Ice Princess: Snow Place Like Home – Christina Soontornvat

Princess Lina hails from a magical family and stays in an enchanting palace in the clouds. She has the power to fly and her bedroom can magically transform into a real-life snow globe.

But all Princess Lina wants is a normal non-magical life in a non-magical school with her best friend Claudia. But will she be able to keep the secret of her icy life from others?

A visual delight, this awesome book is filled with values like the importance of friendship, love, and dealing with pressure from the family. A magical read for your kid!

11. Stink: The Super Incredible Shrinking Kid – Megan Mcdonald

Brother of the popular character, Judy Moody, Stink is a short boy and continues to shrink each day.

He measures himself daily only to realize there isn’t much that he can do about it and will only have to wait till he is older to become tall again.

A must-read for comic book fans, the child-savvy humor brings Stink’s story to life.

It perfectly captures the love between the two siblings with playful language and simple illustrations that will surely keep your child engrossed in this book for hours together.

A simple and funny book with good life lessons. If you’re looking for similar chapter books for 2nd graders, check out the Judy Moody was in a Mood series, too!

12. Yasmin Series – Saadia Faruqi

A colorful, inspiring, and wonderfully written series based on the life of a young girl, Yasmin, who describes incidents from her day-to-day life.

In one book she is stuck on an idea for her school project until recess time when she suddenly gets inspired and comes up with a new idea for the various roles she plays, such as a Teacher, a Chef, and many more.

What’s important is the way she deals with all her problems in her life creatively and cleverly, without ever giving up hope.

 This series will surely bring a smile to your child’s face! It comes with a craft suggestion at the end of the book which is an added bonus.

13. A Bear Called Paddington – Michael Bond

Meet Paddington! Our friendly bear wearing an old hat, a battered coat, and carrying a suitcase with a jar of marmalade. He is polite and kind-hearted but often innocently finds himself getting into trouble.

Found at the Paddington station and adopted by the Brown family, he has been receiving love from many generations across the world for his cute and funny adventures.

This bear will teach your child some of the most beautiful life lessons in an engaging way.

A delightful jolly ride with this loveable accident-prone bear is sure to make you and your child laugh out loud.

This is not only a great introductory chapter book for second graders, but a novel that will stay in the family for generations.

Related post: Books about Food for Children

14. The Zack Files – Dan Greenburg

The Zack Files is a humorous series based on the life of a ten-year-old who encounters paranormal problems.

Zack always manages to get into some trouble in the course of his adventures, but his best friends somehow manage to get him out of it in some way or the other.

Be it when Zack’s Grandpa had reincarnated into a cat or the time when he shared a room with a ghost, all these funny and silly misadventures are sure to tickle the funny bone of your little one!

A big hit with kids aged 7 and above.

15. Stuart Little – E.B. White

A famous and worldwide bestseller, E.B. White’s Stuart Little is based on the life of a tiny, smart, kind, and extremely brave mouse who loves adventures.

He lives in New York with his parents, elder brother, and a cat named Snowbell.

He loves his family and goes to great lengths to help them. He jumps down a drain to find his mom’s lost ring and crawls down a piano to fix the piano keys before his brother’s piano concert.

He befriends a cute bird named Margalo, but once she disappears suddenly, Stuart steps out of his house for the first time to find her. But what happens next?

This is a wonderful book worth buying for your young second-grade reader.

16. Martin Luther King Jr. (Little People Big Dreams) – Maria Isabel Sanchez V

A worldwide bestseller from the critically acclaimed author, this book chronicles the life of an inspiring minister and an activist for civil rights, Martin Luther King Jr.

An empowering series that highlights the importance of not tolerating injustice and fighting for what is right.

They say ‘A pen is mightier than the sword’ and he proved that. A real-life hero whose stories will greatly inspire your children. Important life lessons written in lucid language make this book worth adding to your child’s book collection.

It has some extra facts and a biographical timeline at the end of the book, which makes it very interesting to read.

17. Ivy And Bean – Annie Barrows

A fabulous book for young readers from Grade 1 to 4, Ivy and Bean is a story of two friends who are complete opposites.

Bean finds Ivy to be boring, but one fine day Bean rescues her from trouble and things take a U-turn. They both become the best of friends.

The book is filled with a plethora of new words which will enrich your child’s vocabulary and also some important lessons based on friendship, love, and empathy.

Some incidents make them incredibly happy and at the same time, they make some mistakes only to learn from them later. This book beautifully celebrates the joy of friendship.

18. Frog And Toad Are Friends – Arnold Lobel

Frog and Toad are Friends is a chapter book series of five adventurous tales of the friendship of a frog and a toad, written in simple language for those beginning chapter books.

The frog is cheerful and likes to relax and enjoy life, whereas the toad is a bit uptight, but they love going together for a swim, flying kites, and writing letters to each other.

They set a great example of friendship and loyalty by supporting each other through thick and thin times perfectly describing ‘A friend in need is a friend indeed’ .

Wonderfully illustrated, this chapter book series is filled with heartwarming stories and is sure to make your 2nd grade child fall in love with reading from an early age.

19. Hi! Fly Guy – Tedd Arnold

Imaginative and creatively written, this is a story of a boy named Buzz who has an unusual pet. A fly!

It is a hilarious novel showing their friendship and adventures through silly drawings. The fly accompanies Buzz wherever he goes, be it his school, garden as well as on his vacations.

There is never a dull moment when they are together and they have a sweet world of their own with its ups and downs.

A very simple and entertaining book that will help your little one experience the simple joy of reading from a young age.

20. Katie Woo And Friends – Fran Manushkin

Katie Woo and Friends is an award-winning series for 2nd graders. Just like other kids, Katie Woo has two best friends JoJo and Pedro.

The trio love going on adventures together, such as camping, losing a tooth, and even saying goodbye to their dog together.

A well-written story with simple characters that emphasizes the importance of true friendship and comradery.

The best part is that each chapter has a story of its own story, which makes it a favorite among young readers with short attention spans.

A pleasant and riveting read filled with lessons on empathy, forgiveness, and sharing that children can easily connect with.

This book would be a great addition to your child’s reading list.

21. Kay’s Marvellous Medicines: A Gross And Gruesome History Of The Human Body – Adam Kay, Jan Ravens Et Al

A hilarious read from bestselling authors, this book is filled with funny and informative facts about the human body with references to ancient history seasoned with loads of humor.

It takes you back to an era when doctors would experiment on the human body. Medicine meets history in this hilarious book.

It mentions funny facts like why ancient Egyptians felt that the brain was a useless load to why hairdressers chopped off their customer’s legs, which will leave your child amazed and laughing.

Though gruesome in some places, it makes the complexity of the human body approachable and will develop a liking for science in your little one and keep him or her engrossed for hours!

22. You Are An Amazing Girl: A Collection Of Inspiring Stories Of Courage, Friendship, Inner Strength And Self-Confidence – Nadia Ross

An encouraging and uplifting book especially for young girls, designed to help them realize how unique they are and that nobody is perfect.

To believe in their dreams and never give up in the toughest of situations. It tells how one should respect and love their parents and beautifully teaches them life lessons about confidence, self-esteem, and self-love.

Written in the form of ten short stories, it will encourage your little one to read the book by herself.

The protagonist deals with many situations in her daily life and the reader will surely relate to them. Absolutely recommended for all little girls and it is also a great gifting option.

23. Henry and Mudge – Cynthia Rylant

Henry and Mudge are best friends. Henry is a young boy who was feeling lonely when the other children on the street wouldn’t play with him. But he finds companionship in a lovable big dog named Mudge.

The books in this series are warm-hearted and funny, and written in simple vocabulary and accompanied by delightful illustrations, which make them the perfect first chapter books for children.

Another popular book by Cynthia Rylant is In Aunt Lucy’s Kitchen, the first book in the series, Cobble Street Cousins.

24. Mercy Watson Series – Kate Dicamillo

Another beloved chapter books for 2nd graders series is the Mercy Watson series by Kate Dicamillo.

Mercy Watson is a pig who loves a rollicking good time. Whether she’s foiling a robber or squeezing into a tutu, there’s no telling what adventures she will get into. 

Mercy Watson has been a beloved favorite for second grade children for decades and her adventures will have your child laughing and eager to read the next book.

25. Cam Jansen Series – David A. Adler

The Cam Jansen Series are some of the most popular chapter books for 2nd grade children of all time.

Cam Jansen loves a mystery, and with her amazing photographic memory, she’s great at solving them. The first novel of this series follows Cam as she helps to catch a diamond thief.

With the help of her best friend Eric, Cam and Eric help the police find the robber after they witness them arrest the wrong person. 

The Cam Jansen books are perfect for first time chapter book readers. Cam is a lovable young heroine who has been a favorite children’s hero for over two decades.

26. Junie B Jones Series – Barbara Park

The Junie B Jones Series follows the world’s most hilarious kindergartener as she starts school for the very first time.

This #1 New York Times bestselling chapter book series has sold over 65 million copies worldwide and has been helping children transition to chapter books for more than 25 years.

Follow Junie’s hilarious classroom antics, go on adventures, and follow the hilarious goings-on in her kindergarten class.

27. Nate the Great – Marjorie W. Sharmat, Mitchell Sharmat, Craig Sharmat

Nate the Great is the world’s greatest detective. In the first novel of the series, he is tasked with solving the mystery of the lost picture!

Targeted at beginner chapter book readers, this series will instill a love of reading as your child learns to problem solve along with Nate. 

Nate also teaches problem-solving by using logical thinking. 

28. Gooney Bird Greene – Lois Lowry

When Gooney Bird Greene turns up at Watertower Elementary School, she’s shocked everyone with her unique style and unusual lunches.

This second grader is quirky but in all the good ways, and that suits Gooney Bird just fine. She also has lots of “true” stories to tell!

From the highly acclaimed author of The Giver , Lois Lowry brings us a heartwarming series that makes for the perfect chapter book for second graders.

Not only because of the language, writing style, and illustrations but because the main character is a second-grade kid, too. 

29. Amelia Bedelia – Peggy Parish

Amelia Bedelia is a hilarious chapter book by Peggy Parish. The stories follow a young girl, Amelia, who does exactly what Mr and Mrs Rogers tell her not to do.

Sometimes she gets things mixed up and does everything wrong, but it always turns out alright in the end.

Amelia Bedelia has been a lovable beginner chapter book series for children in the second grade for decades and is sure to be loved for more decades to come.

30. Diary of an Ice Princess Series – Christina Soontornvat

The Diary of an Ice Princess is a collection of chapter books written for 2nd-grade reading level.

Each book in the series is a fun-filled story following Princess Lina. She has the princess life that all little girls dream of.

She lives in a palace in the clouds, and everyone in her family can control the weather. She can even fly!

Princess Lina enjoys turning lemons into lemon ice, riding the wind, and turning her bedroom into a snow globe.

But Princess Lina wants to go to a regular school for non-magic people with her best friend, Claudia. She promises not to reveal her magic…but can she?

31. Rainbow Magic – Orchard Books

The Rainbow Magic series is the perfect chapter book series for 2nd grade girls looking for a fairy adventure to get lost in.

The first book follows Kirsty and Rachel who are having a greatl time at the Fairytale Festival. But there’s a problem.

The evil Jack Frost has stolen the magical objects from the Fairytale Fairies’, and now the Fairytale characters are trapped in the human world!

It’s up to Rachel and Kirsty to find them and restore magic to fairytales everywhere.

The Rainbow Magic series are all based on well-known and beloved fairytales, from sleeping beauty to Cinderella to The Little Mermaid.

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Final Word on Best Chapter Books for Second Graders

So there you have it, those are my top chapter books for 2nd graders, suitable for both boys and girls, from ages 6-8.

These beginner novels will be the perfect starter book for your child that will help them fall in love with reading and develop an interest in new stories.

Of course, there are so many 2nd grade chapter books that couldn’t make it on my list. Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments.

About Louisa Smith

Editor/Founder - Epic Book Society

Louisa is the Founder, Editor, and Head Honcho of Epic Book Society. She was born and raised in the United Kingdom and graduated from the University for the Creative Arts with a degree in Journalism. Louisa began her writing career at the age of 7 when her poetry was published in an anthology of poems to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee. Upon graduating university, she spent several years working as a journalist writing about books before transitioning to become a Primary School Teacher. Louisa loves all genres of books, but her favorites are Sci-Fi, Romance, Fantasy, and Young Adult Fiction. Read more Louisa's story here .

1 thought on “31 BEST Chapter Books for Second Graders”

Great blog post! I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the chapter book series for 2nd graders.

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Books For Second Grade Readers

Your guide to reading and books for second-grade readers: everything you need to know to support your second-grade reader..

Keep your students reading and boost the development of more complex language and reading comprehension with this collection of titles just right for the second grade classroom.

Check out amazing new releases to add to your classroom library. 

From quintessential classics like Charlotte's Web to more contemporary favorites like Dog Man , there's something for every interest and skill level in this diverse book list featuring picture books, early readers, chapter books, and nonfiction.

Discover 99 books under $9 that build character.

Spanning a variety of genres, these titles are perfect for classroom read-alouds and individual reading from the very first day and throughout the school year. 

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38 of the Best 2nd Grade Books (2022) – Your Kids Will Love This List!

Now, I'm not one to label grades to my kids. Being homeschoolers, we go at the pace we need to and if my kids don't understand something, well, we'll take time to learn it! That's why they could be ahead or behind societal grade levels. However, sometimes, knowing those grade levels can help us identify what our kids need to learn, serving as sort of a loose guide or a roadmap. Much like these best 2nd grade books !

You can read 2nd grade or 3rd grade or even 1st grade level books, but if you know your kiddos reading level, and its about at the 2nd grade reading level, then this is the list of chapter books for 2nd grade in addition to some other books I discovered are perfect for these little readers!

Seriously – I didn't just slap any old book on here in this list for the sake of putting them in this list (like a lot of others do *cough cough*). These are some seriously good books! And PERFECT-O for your 2nd grader(ish) kiddo! Check them out and click on their names to learn more about them!

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20 Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

What a list! It sounds like a lot, but don't worry, these are all great books that your second grader will love, as did mine. I've had two kids in about the same grade levels since we began homeschooling, although, techinically, they're suppose to be one grade level apart. I found it much easier to just teach them on the same grade levels.

Except math. They go their own pace for that!

But for reading? Definitely. So I've had double the experiences with these books, which I went and found the best 2nd grade books to add to this list. Most are great chapter books that your second grader can read on their own, but you'll find some great read alouds here too. So curl up with your little reader (or in my case, readers ) and enjoy some great stories together.

I think these are great books and an especially great way for second graders (or any young readers, really) who are reluctant readers, independent readers, or just need that perfect book to get them started on their beloved path of reading!

And here are a few reading curriculums I recommend:

180 Days of Reading: Grade 2

All About Reading: Level 2 Read my All About Reading Pre-Reading review

Reading Better Together

Now on to mine and my kids' book recommendations!

The Flat Stanley Collection Box Set : Flat Stanley, Invisible Stanley, Stanley in Space, and Stanley, Flat Again! 

The Flat Stanley Collection is about a young boy who gets flattened by a bulletin board and then can be mailed around the world. These are such fun books, even as an adult, I loved them! The best part is that every time we read one of these books, we learn about a new place.

Never Stop Dreaming by Susan Adler

This book is a great read aloud for second grade, as it's only 72 pages, but it tells such an important message. This is the story of Ruby and her best friend Nora. The two friends want to go to sleepaway camp together, but their parents can't afford it. So they come up with a plan to make money. But when Nora's parents find out, they put a stop to it. Ruby is heartbroken that her best friend won't be going to camp with her, but she comes up with a way to make the best of it. This book is such a great story of friendship and how even when things don't go the way we want them to, we can always find a way to make them work.

Unicorn Academy : Rainbow of Adventure Boxed Set (Books 1-4) by Rebecca Elliott

If you have a unicorn lover in your house, these books are perfect! We LOVE unicorns around here and they have beautiful illustrations in these. My daughter could not get enough of these books. There are 4 books in the series and they follow the amazing adventures of best friends Mia and Lila who go to Unicorn Academy. These are such fun books and my girls were so sad when they finished the last one.

The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman  

This is a book for younger readers to read about friendship, homelessness, and finding a way to make a difference. It follows the story of two best friends who live on the streets of Chennai, India. When they meet a girl who is new to the streets, they take her under their wing and help her to find a safe place to sleep. *Winner of Caldecott Medal!*

The Storm Book by Charlotte Zolotow

This is such a sweet story, and a bit of the more easy chapter books for 2nd graders, which is about a little boy who is afraid of thunderstorms. His mom tries to help him to understand them and eventually he learns that there is nothing to be afraid of. This is such a precious story and one that we love. *Winner of Caldecott Medal*

The Family Under The Bridge by Natalie Savage Carlson

This is a classic chapter book that my girls have loved. It's the story of a woman who lives under a bridge with her best friend, a cat. When she meets a family who is living in their car, she invites them to live with her under the bridge. This is such a heartwarming story and that my girls have loved. *Winner of Caldecott Medal*

The Water Princess by Susan Verde

This is a beautiful story about a girl who lives in a village in Africa. She is tasked with fetching water for her family every day, but she dreams of having running water in her home one day. This is such a powerful story! *Winner of Caldecott Medal*

Wish by Barbara O'Connor

This is such a sweet story about a girl who wishes for a best friend. When she gets her wish, she learns that friendship is not always what you expect it to be. This is such an important lesson for kids to learn and this story is so perfect for teaching it. *Winner of Caldecott Medal*

Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai

This is an amazing story that follows a girl who is forced to leave her home in Vietnam during the war. She comes to America as a refugee and has to learn how to navigate her new life. This is such a powerful story of courage and hope. *Winner of Caldecott Medal*

The Unadoptables by Hana Tooke

This book is set in an orphanage in Victorian London and follows the lives of the children who live there. These kids are considered to be unadoptable because they each have something wrong with them. There's a girl with a limp, a little boy who's blind, a boy who stutters, and many more. But when a wealthy woman comes to the orphanage looking to adopt a child, she ends up taking all of them. This is such a heartwarming story about friendship and family. It's also a great reminder that even though we may have some challenges in our lives, we are still worthy of love.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

This is such a beautifully written story that your kids will love. It's the story of Luna, who is taken from her family as a baby and raised by a witch. But the witch didn't know that she was taking a human baby, she thought she was taking a magical one. When Luna is finally returned to her family, she must come to terms with who she really is. These easy chapter books for 2nd graders are great for girls to accept who they are!

The Enchanted Forest Chronicles by Patricia C. Wrede

This book is about Cimorene, a princess who is tired of being proper and decides to run away from home. She ends up becoming the dragon Kazul's personal assistant and gets caught up in an adventure to save the Enchanted Forest. These books are perfect for second grade readers who are looking for something a little different.

The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

The School for Good and Evil is about best friends Sophie and Agatha who are transported to a school for fairytale characters. But when they get there, they realize that they have been put in the wrong school. They must find a way to escape and return home before it's too late.

Dragonbreath #1 by Ursula Vernon

Dragonbreath is about a dragon named Danny who lives in a world where dragons are treated like pets. Danny wants to be a hero, but he's always getting into trouble. When he accidentally breathe fire on his best friend's sister, he gets sent to Dragon Camp to learn how to control his powers.

Lola Levine is Not Mean! by Monica Brown

Lola Levine is a second grader who loves soccer and art. She's also best friends with a boy named Josh. But when Josh starts hanging out with the popular girls at school, Lola starts to feel left out. She comes up with a plan to make Josh like her again, but it doesn't quite go as she expects.

Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things by Cynthia Voigt

Mister Max is a detective who specializes in finding lost things. When he's hired to find a boy who ran away from home, he has no idea that it will lead him on a dangerous adventure. This is the first book in one of our favorite series, so your kids will want to read more of Mister Max's adventures.

How Not to Start Third Grade by Bart King

This book is about a boy named Danny who is starting third grade. He's excited for the new school year, but he's also a little nervous. When he gets off to a rocky start, he starts to worry that he's not going to make it in third grade. But with the help of his friends, he eventually learns that starting off on the wrong foot isn't the end of the world.

Trapped in a Video Game by Dustin Brady

This book is about a boy named Jesse who gets sucked into his favorite video game. He has to find a way to beat the game and get back to the real world. But as he starts to explore the game, he realizes that it's more than just a game. It's a whole other world with its own dangers. These kinds of easy chapter books for 2nd graders are the kind that pull your little reader in and paints a whole vivid world! Really good for their imagination and creativity.

The Boxcar Children Books 1-4 by Gertrude Chandler Warner

The Boxcar Children is a classic series about four orphaned siblings who live in a boxcar. They have to find a way to survive on their own, but they also have to deal with the danger of being found by the authorities. These books are perfect for kids who are looking for an exciting adventure.

Amelia Bedelia Chapter Book 4-Book Box Set: Books 1-4 by Peggy Parish

This box set includes the first four books in the Amelia Bedelia early chapter books series. Amelia Bedelia is a little girl who doesn't always understand what people are saying to her. But that doesn't stop her from trying to do her best. These are among the best 2nd grade books because they're funny…and great for kids who want a laugh-out-loud read!

Charlotte's Web by E.B. White

This classic novel is about a story of a young girl named Fern, a farm girl, who saves the life of a piglet. The pig, named Wilbur, becomes famous when he is saved from being slaughtered. But when winter comes, Wilbur starts to worry that he will die. It's up to his friend Charlotte to save him. This is a heartwarming story that your kids will love.

The Secret Lake by Enid Blyton

The Secret Lake is one of the longer books about two children who find a secret lake in the woods. They start to explore it and make new friends. But when they get lost, they have to find their way back home. This is a great book for kids who love adventure stories.

Patrick Picklebottom and the Penny Book Bandit by J.C. Geiger

Patrick Picklebottom is a third-grader who loves to read. But when his school's library is vandalized, all of the books are ruined. Patrick is determined to find the culprit and stop them from ruining any more books. This is a great book for kids who love mysteries.

The Bear and the Fern by Windy Lynch

The Bear and the Fern is a heartwarming story about a bear who befriends a fern. When the fern starts to wilt, the bear sets out to find a way to save it. This is a great book for kids who love nature stories.

Ava & Carol Detective Agency Series : Books 1-3 by Lisa Jahn-Clough

Ava & Carol Detective Agency stories is a great series about two best friends who start their own detective agency. They use their detective skills to solve mysteries and help people. These books are perfect for kids who love solving puzzles and finding clues.

My Weird School Daze 12-Book Box Set: Books 1-12 by Dan Gutman

The My Weird School Daze series is about a school where anything can happen. From a teacher who turns into a werewolf to a class trip to the moon, there's never a dull moment at Ella Mentry School. These books are perfect for kids who love hilarious stories.

You are an Amazing Girl : A Collection of Inspiring Stories about Courage, Friendship, Inner Strength and Self-Confidence by Kate Messner

This book is perfect for this 2nd grade book list a collection of inspiring stories about courage, friendship, inner strength and self-confidence. These stories are part of our best 2nd grade books list because they are perfect for girls who need a little boost of confidence. They will inspire your child to be the best she can be.

Junie B. Jones's First Boxed Set Ever! by Barbara Park

This box set includes your favorite characters in all the first five books in the Junie B. Jones series. Junie B. is a kindergartener who has a lot of adventures. From losing her first tooth to getting in trouble for speaking her mind, she always seems to be in the middle of some sort of adventure. These books are perfect for kids who like funny stories

Seedfolks by Paul Fleischman

Seedfolks is a perfect read and such a heartwarming story about a group of people who come together to create a community garden. This book is perfect for kids who want to learn about cooperation and working together. It's also a great book for kids who love nature.

The Gardener by Sarah Stewart

The Gardener is a heartwarming story about a girl named Lydia who loves to garden. When her family has to move to the city, Lydia is heartbroken. But she finds a way to bring her love of gardening with her. This is a great book for kids who love nature and stories about following your dreams.

The Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 1-4 : Dinosaurs Before Dark, The Knight at Dawn, Mummies in the Morning, and Pirates Past Noon by Mary Pope Osborne

The Magic Tree House series is about a brother and sister who find a magic tree house. They use it to travel to different places and times. They have adventures and learn about different cultures and historical events. These books are perfect for kids who love adventure stories and learning new things.

Ninja Life Hacks Emotions and Feelings 8 Book Box Set (Books 1-8: Angry, Inventor, Positive, Lazy, Helpful, Earth, Grumpy, Kind) by Owen Davey (Easy Chapter Books for 2nd Graders)

The Ninja Life Hacks series is about a ninja who uses his skills to help others. In this book, he helps people deal with their emotions and feelings. These books are perfect for kids who need help dealing with their emotions. They are also great for kids who love learning new things.

The Boy Who Never Gave Up by Stephen Curry

The Boy Who Never Gave Up is the inspiring story of Stephen Curry. He was born with a condition that made it hard for him to walk. But he never gave up. He worked hard and became one of the best basketball players in the world. This book is perfect for kids who need inspiration to never give up on their dreams.

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures by Julia Finley Mosca

She was different from other kids. She thought in pictures. But she didn't let that stop her from becoming one of the most famous scientists in the world. This book is perfect for kids who are different and need inspiration to follow their dreams.

Pony Mysteries #1: Penny and Pepper by Bonnie Bryant

This is one of the great 2nd grade chapter books about Penny and Pepper who are best friends. They live on a ranch and help their owners with the horses. But when they find a lost pony, they have to help him find his way home. This is a great book for kids who love horses and mystery stories and definitely belongs to the best 2nd grade books list!

Second Grade, Here I Come! by Dori Butler

Second grade is a big step up from first grade and perfect for budding readers. But Dori is ready for the challenge. She's excited to learn new things and make new friends. This is a great book for kids who are starting second grade. It's also a great book for kids who need a little inspiration to do their best.

Pokémon Classic Chapter Book Collection by Tracey West

The Pokémon chapter book collection is probably one of the favorite chapter books among many kids, and it is perfect for kids who love the Pokémon TV show and movies. These books follow the adventures of Ash and his friends as they travel around the world catching Pokémon. These books are perfect for kids who love adventure stories and learning new things.

A Little SPOT of Feelings 8 Book Box Set by Julie Sternberg

The Little SPOT of Feelings series is perfect second grade books for kids who need help dealing with their emotions. In these books, a little dog named SPOT helps his friends deal with their feelings. These books are perfect for kids who love animals and need help dealing with their emotions.

The Best 2nd Grade Books 2022 – Your Kids Will Love This List!

I hope you liked this list of some hard, some easy chapter books for 2nd graders ! Me and my 2nd grade readers have read many of these books on this list and we loved them all (otherwise, they wouldn't be on this list!) . These 2nd grade books of 2022 are waiting to be discovered by your little ones. And we promise, they will love every minute of it. Happy reading!

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25 Books for 2nd-Graders to Ignite Their Love for Reading

25 Best Books To Read for 2nd Graders

General fiction books for second graders, fantasy books for second graders, mystery books for second graders, graphic books for second graders, historical fiction books for second graders, fun books for 2nd graders, classic books for second graders, book series for 2nd graders.

Do you want your kids to develop a better intellectual, physical, and social foundation? If so, you should introduce them to some interactive and engaging hobbies at an early age. Reading is the best hobby to spark curiosity, improve social skills, and boost a child’s overall growth. 

Math & ELA | PreK To Grade 5

Kids see fun ., you see real learning outcomes ..

Watch your kids fall in love with math & reading through our scientifically designed curriculum.

This guide will walk you through the best books for 2nd graders . 2nd grade is an important time in your child’s development chart. It’s the time when your child is already fluent in reading. So, you can leverage their reading skills to introduce them to the beautiful world of stories.

Let’s explore some good books for 2nd graders to read and get inspired from.

Here are some more online reading games to educate and engage your kids!

If you have 2nd graders at home, it is crucial to introduce them to some good books. Reading will not only help them in academics. But also develop their imagination, creativity, and social skills. 

So, based on your child’s reading level and interest, you can choose from the following popular books for 2nd graders:

1. Your Name is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

Subject: celebrating diversity, the history and magic behind names, price: $11.54.

When Kora-Jalimuso’s teacher and classmates couldn’t pronounce her name, she felt sad. But then her mother uplifted her mood and told her that her “name is a song.” This is a good book for 2nd graders to teach them the importance of diversity and how to celebrate it. The book beautifully talks about racism in schools and its impact on young minds. 

2. Norman: One Amazing Goldfish by Kelly Bennett

Subject: love for animals, stage fright, price: $14.29.

Norman: One Amazing Goldfish! is among the most popular books for 2nd graders. Norman is an adorable goldfish. His owner wants Norman to dazzle the crowd at the Pet-O-Rama pet show with his circles, bubbles, and flips. But unfortunately, Norman gets scared on the stage and hides. But his owner plays his favorite song to relax him, and then he impresses everyone with his antics. The book has fantastic illustrations and a storyline to hold a 2nd grader’s attention. 

3. Khalil and Mr. Hagerty and the Backyard Treasures by Tricia Springstubb

Subject: shared experiences, friendships, companionship, price: $14.39.

Khalil and Mr. Hagerty have nothing in common. Khalil is a young boy who lives upstairs in a crowded and noisy apartment with his family. Mr. Hagerty is an old and quiet man living on the ground floor. One day, Khalil digs land to find a treasure, and Mr. Hagerty gets a pit to plant his flowers. That’s how an expected and sweet friendship blooms between two completely different people. 

4. Ten Ways to Hear Snow by Cathy Camper

Subject: being observant and attentive to your surroundings , price: $5.69.

One winter morning, Lina woke to silence and a blanket of snow. She planned to visit her grandmother to cook grape leaves. On her way, she found 10 ways to observe her surroundings which would have gone unnoticed earlier. She found a snowman, ice sidewalks, and other beauties of snow while visiting her grandmother. This book is perfect for teaching your 2nd graders how there is beauty in everything. They have to find a way to observe and appreciate it.

5. The Magical Animal Adoption Agency, Clover’s Luck by Kalli George

Subject: fortune, hard work, price: $8.05.

This is a great fantasy reading book for 2nd graders containing fortune, magic, and evil witches. It is the story of Clover, who thinks of herself as bad luck. One fine day, she visited the woods and found a magical animal adoption agency where different magical creatures were catered, like unicorns, fairy horses, etc. She got a summer job in the agency. However, Clover’s bad luck strikes again when she is left alone to manage the agency, and an evil witch attacks the magical animals. How Clover saves animals is an adventurous tale to tell 2nd graders. 

6. Rainbow Magic Series by Daisy Meadows

Subject: sisterhood, goodness, price:$6.99.

The Rainbow Magic series is a collection of books for kids to read. Fairyland is where the colorful seven sisters live, known as Rainbow Fairies. They were sent far away by an evil person, Jack Frost. However, they have to return to Fairyland to protect it. In the seven series, kids will read how seven fairies find their way back to Fairyland. 

7. Magic Tree House: Merlin Mission by Mary Pope Osborne

Subject: friendship, adventure , price: $67.00.

Magic Tree House is a fantastic fantasy story in which a treehouse takes Jack and Annie to a magical land beyond imagination. It is a magical adventure tale where the duo visit Camelot, a haunted castle, an island lost in the mist, and the Land Behind the Clouds. It is a fantastic adventurous book series to read for 2nd graders. 

8. Julian, Secret Agent by Ann Cameron

Subject: friendship, detective mystery , price: $4.99.

The story revolves around Julian, his brother Huey, and their friend Gloria. They saw a poster at the post office with a reward of $25,000 to catch a thief who cooks. There are several mysteries and twists before three friends catch a thief and stop bank robberies in the city. It is a perfect online book for 2nd graders to order from Amazon or GoodReads. 

9. The Seven Treasure Hunts by Betsy Byars

Subject: responsibility, properly understanding the instructions.

If your 2nd grader is a wilful child, this book is the best book for them to teach how a wrong move can cause big trouble. This book contains the story of two friends, Jack and Goat, who love to create treasures for other people. However, Goat misunderstood one of the instructions and fell into a pit with his sister. This book will teach your children that they should properly read and follow instructions.

10. Tuff Fluff: The Case of Duckie’s Missing Brain by Scott Nash

Subject: keeping your things in the right place , price: $7.01.

Duckie is the resident storyteller toy of Los Attic. But he lost some of his brain stuffing, so he can’t tell stories anymore. Tuff Fluff is a private investigator who uses creative surgery to regain Duckie’s brain. It is a fun, quick book for 2nd graders to read during their downtime. 

11. Baloney and Friends series by Greg Pizzoli

Subject: bravery, friendship, price: $7.99 .

Baloney is the star of this book series with his three best friends — empathetic Peanut the horse, sensible Bizz the bumblebee, and grumpy Krabbit. Together friends create humorous graphical tales. Your kids will giggle with Baloney and cheer him when he braves to swim and learn to draw clear characters. 

12. Peter & Ernesto Series by Graham Annable

Subject: friendship, personalities, individuality , price: $13.99.

Peter & Ernesto is a graphic novel series for elementary students. Oscar-nominated artist and writer have created two different characters — Peter and Ernesto. Both characters are sloths with different personalities but are still best friends. It is a good book for 2nd graders to teach them how two people can become friends despite their different interests. 

13. Norma and Belly series by Mika Song

Subject: friendship, stealing is bad , price: $7.99.

Norma and Belly are two hungry squirrels. They are thick as thieves. One day, the sweet scent of a doughnut truck lures them outside of their tree trunk, and they plan to steal some doughnuts. The story is about all the challenges and lessons squirrels learn while attempting to steal some delicious doughnuts. 

14. An Elephant in the Garden by Michael Morpurgo

Subject: humanity, animal care .

This story is inspired by true incidents during the WWII bombing. The story is about a family who rescued an orphan elephant, Marlene, from the Belfast Zoo. The family faces several unexpected encounters while saving the elephant when the whole city is bombed. It is a sweet tale of survival, kindness, and never losing hope during difficult times. 

15. How I Became a Spy: A Mystery of WWII London by Deborah Hopkinson

Subject: suspense, thrill, wwii events, price:$13.99.

This is the best book to read for 2nd graders to learn about various WWII events. This book is set in London during the Second World War. It revolves around a 13-year-old English boy — Bertie, an American girl — Eleanor, and a Jewish refugee boy — David. When a young woman goes missing, leaving a coded notebook behind, Bertie sets out to solve the mystery. Leading the trio into fun and adventure that your children will enjoy.

16. Potato: A Tale from the Great Depression by Kate Lied

Subject: survival, family bond, valuing the little things in life, price: $7.95.

This is a great historical tale for young children during the Great Depression. When an only earning member of a family loses his job during the depression, forcing the entire family to move to Idaho to harvest potatoes. The book has engaging illustrations and a gripping storyline to hook 2nd graders. 

17. It’s Raining Pigs & Noodles by Jack Prelutsky

Subject: funny language and phrases , price: $9.99.

2nd grade is often when children start picking up curse words and demonstrating rude behavior. So, this fun book for 2nd graders is perfect for teaching them playful words and cute zany phrases. Your children will start laughing from the first line and memorize cute lines to express their growing range of emotions creatively. 

18. Drooling and Dangerous: The Riot Brothers Return by Mary Amato

Subject: sibling bond.

It is a hilarious tale of brothers Orville and Wilbur, along with their school principal and mother. The book will attract young readers who adore their mother and siblings. It is a silly story about brothers falling into trouble and annoying their mother. It is the perfect fun pastime story for 2nd graders. 

19. Gooney Bird Greene Series by Lois Lowry

Subject: attention seeking, fitting in, confidence.

Gooney Bird wants to become the center of all attention on the first day of her 2nd grade. So, she arrives at class in the middle of the day wearing a colorful costume. She soon becomes the brightest star in the class with her weird antics and dramatic stories. The story is a perfect mix of entertainment, imagination, and creativity for young readers. 

20. James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl

Subject: bravery, adventure, friendship, price: $5.49.

It is a classic book for 2nd graders written in 1961. James is an English orphan boy under the care of two abusive aunts. One day, James finds a tunnel in a peach tree and enters a magical world where he befriends seven bugs and embarks on an adventurous journey. The book contains some explicit content, so read it with your children. 

21. Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey

Subject: community, family , price: $8.08.

Make Way for Ducklings is a classic illustration book written in 1941. The book is about a pair of mallard ducks who plan to raise their family on an island in the lagoon of Boston Public Garden. However, they need the community’s support to reach there safely. The story will teach your children about community bonds. 

22. Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary

Subject: sibling rivalries , price: $5.99.

This is a great book for 2nd graders to read about and explore sibling rivalries. The focus is on Ramona Quimby and her sister Beatrice. The story is told from 9-year-old Beezus’s point of view as she tries to relate to her 4-year-old sister. The story is a bit old, but it captures sibling relationships perfectly.

23. Dory Fantasmagory Series by Abby Hanlon

Subject: sibling relationships, imagination , price: $12.64.

It is not easy being the youngest sibling, especially when your brother and sister won’t play with you. If your 2nd grader cribs a lot about their siblings, introduce them to Dory, who has a wild imagination and keeps herself entertained. This book is a real hoot with a bearded fairy godmother, sharp-toothed robbers, and a monster who happens to be the sweetest. 

24. Alvin Ho Series by Lenore Look

Subject: conquering fears , price: $6.99.

Alvin Ho is scared of everything, especially going to school. But unfortunately, he can’t skip starting 2nd grade. Your children will learn to conquer their fears while reading Alvin’s courageous tale. 

25. Junie B. Jones Series by Barbara Park

Subject: feisty, adventure , price: $4.00.

Junie B. Jones is a popular series for 2nd graders, and the series has been published in 28 installments. Each story revolves around 6-year-old Junie B. Jones and her adventures across kindergarten and first grade.

Let’s Start Reading!

Many fun, valuable, and simple comic and reading books for 2nd graders are available. You can easily introduce tough academic lessons like WWII and life value lessons like friendship, honesty, and kindness with books. So, refer to the best 25 books and help your 2nd grader pick the best ones to read.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the benefits of reading to 2nd graders.

2nd-grade reading is an important year for your child’s overall development. It helps improve the pronunciation of words and their implication in the real world. In addition, 2nd-grade reading will help your children understand the basic mechanism behind the English language and vocabulary. It also improves their grammatical and phonetic skills.

How can I increase or improve my child's interest in reading?

The best method to enhance your child’s interest in reading is leading by example. You should read more and include a variety of books in your home library. When your child sees you reading, this will automatically spark their curiosity and interest in reading. You can also take your child to the local library or book club to introduce them to different types of literature.

What objectives should children set while reading?

The main purpose of reading is to educate, entertain and explain information, which should be the goal. Reading is a practical and entertaining solution to develop your 2nd graders’ critical thinking skills. To expand their reading options, you can also look at e-book readers like Kindle and get online books for 2nd graders.

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26 Teacher-Approved Second Grade Workbooks

Additional practice for reading, math, social studies, and more!

If you’re looking for the best second grade workbooks, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of the most engaging, best-reviewed, curriculum-aligned resources to help second grades in specific subject areas or to avoid the summer slide.

Just a heads up, WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. We only recommend items our team loves!

Best Math Second Grade Workbooks

Introducing math grade 2.

This workbook provides a comprehensive overview of second grade mathematics with instruction, practice questions, and answer explanations along with free digital access to videos.

Real revie w: “Great resource, it is divided into chapters/topics with explanations of the material first, then questions. At the end it has a mix assessment with questions covering all topics. Great help with 2nd grade math.”

2nd Grade Common Core Math: Daily Practice Workbook – Part I

This is one of the best second grade workbooks for helping students practice and master skills while becoming very familiar and comfortable with the state math exam and common core standards. 

Real review: “Easy way fun to study each weekday with a child. Broken into 5 daily assignments for a week. Tip of the day is very helpful.”

2nd Grade Common Core Math: Daily Practice Workbook – Part II

This workbook comes with 20 weeks of daily free response, weekly assessments, state-aligned Common Core curriculum, and an end-of-the-year assessment.

Real review: “Very good book with a lot of exercises to practice … All of them are divided by weeks and days. Tip of the day gives brief explanations to exercises for better understanding.”

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Star Wars Workbook: 2nd Grade Math

It’s okay to look for fun second grade workbooks, right? Kids will use the Force while comparing number values, addition and subtraction, word problems, second and third-dimensional shapes, and getting ready for multiplication.

Real review: “The Star Wars workbooks are a perfect compliment to our online curriculum. They venture beyond grade-level standards in our local schools.” 

Word Problems Grade 2

This workbook introduces students to word problems dealing with multiple-digit addition and subtraction.

Real review : “I love this practice book. I am a teacher and bought this for our daughter who has a very difficult time with word problems. These problems start out fairly simply and move to much more difficult, multi-step problems.”

Best Reading Second Grade Workbooks

Scholastic success with reading comprehension, grade 2.

These second grade workbooks give students targeted, skill-building practice with more than 40 ready-to-reproduce pages. 

Real review : “I’ve always liked Scholastic’s educational products and these don’t disappoint.”

The Big Book of Reading Comprehension Activities, Grade 2

Kids will learn how to identify a story’s message and make connections between plot, structure, setting, characters, and more. This workbook contains 120 activities and progressive lessons. 

Real review : “Excellent. Best practice reading comprehension books on the market!”

Grade 2 Reading

This workbook provides grade-level appropriate vocabulary exercises including elements of both phonics and whole language instruction.

Real review : “The content is attention catching for young readers, and it’s just enough to exercise their skills without getting boring.”

Reading Comprehension Grade 2

This resource helps students master skills in mathematics, penmanship, reading, writing, and grammar. 

Real review : “Wonderful! So simple – story on the left, questions on the right. Many questions require thought, not just reading back for the answer word for word.”

Spectrum Reading Workbook 2nd Grade

This second grade workbook focuses on practice for reading comprehension including letters and sounds, word recognition, theme, integration of knowledge and ideas, main idea, story structure, summarization, key ideas, and details. 

Real re view: “This is a great book for the kids to get better at reading as well as learning how to write response. An amazing book for the money!”

Best Writing Second Grade Workbooks

Grade 2 writing.

This workbook will introduce students to second grade vocabulary and writing skills in a step-by-step manner. 

Real review: “I love these books. They teach and reinforce what you’ve already learned in such an ingenius way. So much fun with bright colorful pages.”

Scholastic Success With Grammar, Grade 2

Each workbook includes more than 40 ready-to-reproduce practice pages of activities that correlate to state standards. 

Real revie w: “I’m using these books in the ESL classes that I teach (as well as for tutoring) and they are perfect as extra worksheets for in-class review and for homework.”

Star Wars Workbook: 2nd Grade Writing

You won’t need to go to a galaxy far, far away to encourage kids to love writing. This exciting Star Wars workbook covers sentence and story construction, spelling and vocabulary, creative writing and story prompts, practice cursive writing skills, and aligns with common core standards.

Real review: “This series works well. They are full of great lessons, and our kids are entertained by them enough to keep working. We call them their ‘fun books.’”

Writing for Minecrafters: Grade 2

Kids love Minecraft, and they’ll enjoy this workbook featuring the video game characters and concepts to make second grade writing practice fun! 

Real review: “This book made homeschooling so much fun for my son. He will literally do 4 to 6 pages at a time.”

180 Days of Writing for Second Grade

This easy-to-use resource provides second-grade students with practice in writing opinion, informative/explanatory, and narrative pieces while also strengthening their language and grammar skills.

Real review: “As a preschool teacher, I bought these for my daughter and I love them. Very educational and still fun to do.”

Scholastic Success with Writing, Grade 2

Each workbook contains activities designed to meet state standards and includes more than 40 ready-to-reproduce practice pages. 

Real review : “This is a great writing book for your second grader. It is really helpful and helps keep them sharp. It’s also great for homeschooling and makes teaching that much easier.”

Best Science & Social Studies Second Grade Workbooks

180 days of science: grade 2.

This second grade workbook helps students analyze and evaluate scientific data and scenarios, improve their understanding of science and engineering practices, answer constructed-response questions, and increase their higher-order thinking skills. 

Real review: “Super happy with the content and how this book is laid out.”

Science, Second Grade: Learn and Explore

Kids can practice with exercises on liquids, solids and gases, global weather patterns, life cycles of living creatures like frogs, jellyfish, and locusts, and more.

Real review: “They have large lettering that is easy to read, and appropriate for a 2nd grade level.”

Geography, Second Grade: Learn and Explore

This workbook contains curriculum-aligned exercises on topics including familiarity with the compass, map grids, physical and political maps, and the concept of hemispheres.

Real review : “This workbook gets them talking about geography, making their own maps and legends, and interested in learning more. No fights to get this done.”

180 Days of Social Studies: Grade 2

Each week’s activities will cover a topic within one of the four social studies disciplines: history, economics, civics, and geography. Students will analyze primary sources, answer text-dependent questions, and improve their grade-level social studies knowledge. 

Real review: “Geography, Civics, Economy, and History are all included in this. I’d recommend it.”

Second Grade Essentials for Social Studies

These engaging activities cover continents and oceans, cardinal and intermediate directions, hemispheres, holidays and symbols, culture, money and barter, consumers and producers, and more!

Real revie w: “Just the supplemental resource I needed!”

Best Overall for Summer Second Grade Workbooks

Summer brain quest: between grades 2 & 3.

This workbook is designed to bridge the gap between second and third grades. Activities include reading comprehension, writing opinions, adjectives versus adverbs, place value, word problems, life cycles, map skills, and more!

Real review : “This is the third time I have done summer workbooks and these summer brain quest ones are perfection!!”

Summer Bridge Activities – Grades 2 – 3

With activities designed to take just 15 minutes a day, this workbook focuses on subjects including math, writing, reading, science, social studies, fitness and character building. 

Real review: “Simply put, this is a great activity book to help your child stay mentally active when out of school for the summer.”

Summer Blast: Getting Ready for Third Grade

This standards-based tool provides nine weeks of engaging and relevant lessons that support content learning in social studies, writing, reading, science, math, and art. 

Real review: “This is perfect, other books were teaching completely new stuff, this was a good review with a bit of new stuff at just the right level.”

Daily Summer Activities, Grade 2-3

Over 10 weeks, kids can work through activities to practice essential skills across subject areas, including reading, math, writing, spelling, and geography.

Real review: “This is a great workbook to keep skills fresh over the summer. We do one page each day, and the included achievement stickers are a nice motivator.”

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How to Write a Book Review: A Comprehensive Tutorial With Examples

You don’t need to be a literary expert to craft captivating book reviews. With one in every three readers selecting books based on insightful reviews, your opinions can guide fellow bibliophiles toward their next literary adventure.

Learning how to write a book review will not only help you excel at your assigned tasks, but you’ll also contribute valuable insights to the book-loving community and turn your passion into a professional pursuit.

In this comprehensive guide,  PaperPerk  will walk you through a few simple steps to master the art of writing book reviews so you can confidently embark on this rewarding journey.

What is a Book Review?

A book review is a critical evaluation of a book, offering insights into its content, quality, and impact. It helps readers make informed decisions about whether to read the book.

Writing a book review as an assignment benefits students in multiple ways. Firstly, it teaches them how to write a book review by developing their analytical skills as they evaluate the content, themes, and writing style .

Secondly, it enhances their ability to express opinions and provide constructive criticism. Additionally, book review assignments expose students to various publications and genres, broadening their knowledge.

Furthermore, these tasks foster essential skills for academic success, like critical thinking and the ability to synthesize information. By now, we’re sure you want to learn how to write a book review, so let’s look at the book review template first.

Table of Contents

Book Review Template

How to Write a Book Review- A Step-by-Step Guide

Check out these 5 straightforward steps for composing the best book review.

Step 1: Planning Your Book Review – The Art of Getting Started

You’ve decided to take the plunge and share your thoughts on a book that has captivated (or perhaps disappointed) you. Before you start book reviewing, let’s take a step back and plan your approach. Knowing how to write a book review that’s both informative and engaging is an art in itself.

Choosing Your Literature

First things first, pick the book you want to review. This might seem like a no-brainer, but selecting a book that genuinely interests you will make the review process more enjoyable and your insights more authentic.

Crafting the Master Plan

Next, create an  outline  that covers all the essential points you want to discuss in your review. This will serve as the roadmap for your writing journey.

The Devil is in the Details

As you read, note any information that stands out, whether it overwhelms, underwhelms, or simply intrigues you. Pay attention to:

• The characters and their development
• The plot and its intricacies
• Any themes, symbols, or motifs you find noteworthy

Remember to reserve a body paragraph for each point you want to discuss.

The Key Questions to Ponder

When planning your book review, consider the following questions:

• What’s the plot (if any)? Understanding the driving force behind the book will help you craft a more effective review.
• Is the plot interesting? Did the book hold your attention and keep you turning the pages?
• Are the writing techniques effective? Does the author’s style captivate you, making you want to read (or reread) the text?
• Are the characters or the information believable? Do the characters/plot/information feel real, and can you relate to them?
• Would you recommend the book to anyone? Consider if the book is worthy of being recommended, whether to impress someone or to support a point in a literature class.
• What could be improved? Always keep an eye out for areas that could be improved. Providing constructive criticism can enhance the quality of literature.

Step 2 – Crafting the Perfect Introduction to Write a Book Review

In this second step of “how to write a book review,” we’re focusing on the art of creating a powerful opening that will hook your audience and set the stage for your analysis.

Identify Your Book and Author

Begin by mentioning the book you’ve chosen, including its  title  and the author’s name. This informs your readers and establishes the subject of your review.

Ponder the Title

Next, discuss the mental images or emotions the book’s title evokes in your mind . This helps your readers understand your initial feelings and expectations before diving into the book.

Judge the Book by Its Cover (Just a Little)

Take a moment to talk about the book’s cover. Did it intrigue you? Did it hint at what to expect from the story or the author’s writing style? Sharing your thoughts on the cover can offer a unique perspective on how the book presents itself to potential readers.

Present Your Thesis

Now it’s time to introduce your thesis. This statement should be a concise and insightful summary of your opinion of the book. For example:

“Normal People” by Sally Rooney is a captivating portrayal of the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of love, class, and self-discovery with exceptional depth and authenticity.

Ensure that your thesis is relevant to the points or quotes you plan to discuss throughout your review.

Incorporating these elements into your introduction will create a strong foundation for your book review. Your readers will be eager to learn more about your thoughts and insights on the book, setting the stage for a compelling and thought-provoking analysis.

How to Write a Book Review: Step 3 – Building Brilliant Body Paragraphs

You’ve planned your review and written an attention-grabbing introduction. Now it’s time for the main event: crafting the body paragraphs of your book review. In this step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the art of constructing engaging and insightful body paragraphs that will keep your readers hooked.

Summarize Without Spoilers

Begin by summarizing a specific section of the book, not revealing any major plot twists or spoilers. Your goal is to give your readers a taste of the story without ruining surprises.

Support Your Viewpoint with Quotes

Next, choose three quotes from the book that support your viewpoint or opinion. These quotes should be relevant to the section you’re summarizing and help illustrate your thoughts on the book.

Analyze the Quotes

Write a summary of each quote in your own words, explaining how it made you feel or what it led you to think about the book or the author’s writing. This analysis should provide insight into your perspective and demonstrate your understanding of the text.

Structure Your Body Paragraphs

Dedicate one body paragraph to each quote, ensuring your writing is well-connected, coherent, and easy to understand.

For example:

• In  Jane Eyre , Charlotte Brontë writes, “I am no bird; and no net ensnares me.” This powerful statement highlights Jane’s fierce independence and refusal to be trapped by societal expectations.
• In  Normal People , Sally Rooney explores the complexities of love and friendship when she writes, “It was culture as class performance, literature fetishized for its ability to take educated people on false emotional journeys.” This quote reveals the author’s astute observations on the role of culture and class in shaping personal relationships.
• In  Wuthering Heights , Emily Brontë captures the tumultuous nature of love with the quote, “He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” This poignant line emphasizes the deep, unbreakable bond between the story’s central characters.

By following these guidelines, you’ll create body paragraphs that are both captivating and insightful, enhancing your book review and providing your readers with a deeper understanding of the literary work. 

How to Write a Book Review: Step 4 – Crafting a Captivating Conclusion

You’ve navigated through planning, introductions, and body paragraphs with finesse. Now it’s time to wrap up your book review with a  conclusion that leaves a lasting impression . In this final step of “How to write a Book Review,” we’ll explore the art of writing a memorable and persuasive conclusion.

Summarize Your Analysis

Begin by summarizing the key points you’ve presented in the body paragraphs. This helps to remind your readers of the insights and arguments you’ve shared throughout your review.

Offer Your Final Conclusion

Next, provide a conclusion that reflects your overall feelings about the book. This is your chance to leave a lasting impression and persuade your readers to consider your perspective.

Address the Book’s Appeal

Now, answer the question: Is this book worth reading? Be clear about who would enjoy the book and who might not. Discuss the taste preferences and circumstances that make the book more appealing to some readers than others.

For example:  The Alchemist is a book that can enchant a young teen, but those who are already well-versed in classic literature might find it less engaging.

Be Subtle and Balanced

Avoid simply stating whether you “liked” or “disliked” the book. Instead, use nuanced language to convey your message. Highlight the pros and cons of reading the type of literature you’ve reviewed, offering a balanced perspective.

Bringing It All Together

By following these guidelines, you’ll craft a conclusion that leaves your readers with a clear understanding of your thoughts and opinions on the book. Your review will be a valuable resource for those considering whether to pick up the book, and your witty and insightful analysis will make your review a pleasure to read. So conquer the world of book reviews, one captivating conclusion at a time!

How to Write a Book Review: Step 5 – Rating the Book (Optional)

You’ve masterfully crafted your book review, from the introduction to the conclusion. But wait, there’s one more step you might consider before calling it a day: rating the book. In this optional step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the benefits and methods of assigning a rating to the book you’ve reviewed.

Why Rate the Book?

Sometimes, when writing a professional book review, it may not be appropriate to state whether you liked or disliked the book. In such cases, assigning a rating can be an effective way to get your message across without explicitly sharing your personal opinion.

How to Rate the Book

There are various rating systems you can use to evaluate the book, such as:

• A star rating (e.g., 1 to 5 stars)
• A numerical score (e.g., 1 to 10)
• A letter grade (e.g., A+ to F)

Choose a rating system that best suits your style and the format of your review. Be consistent in your rating criteria, considering writing quality, character development, plot, and overall enjoyment.

Tips for Rating the Book

Here are some tips for rating the book effectively:

• Be honest: Your rating should reflect your true feelings about the book. Don’t inflate or deflate your rating based on external factors, such as the book’s popularity or the author’s reputation.
• Be fair: Consider the book’s merits and shortcomings when rating. Even if you didn’t enjoy the book, recognize its strengths and acknowledge them in your rating.
• Be clear: Explain the rationale behind your rating so your readers understand the factors that influenced your evaluation.

Wrapping Up

By including a rating in your book review, you provide your readers with additional insight into your thoughts on the book. While this step is optional, it can be a valuable tool for conveying your message subtly yet effectively. So, rate those books confidently, adding a touch of wit and wisdom to your book reviews.

Additional Tips on How to Write a Book Review: A Guide

In this segment, we’ll explore additional tips on how to write a book review. Get ready to captivate your readers and make your review a memorable one!

Hook ’em with an Intriguing Introduction

Keep your introduction precise and to the point. Readers have the attention span of a goldfish these days, so don’t let them swim away in boredom. Start with a bang and keep them hooked!

Embrace the World of Fiction

When learning how to write a book review, remember that reviewing fiction is often more engaging and effective. If your professor hasn’t assigned you a specific book, dive into the realm of fiction and select a novel that piques your interest.

Opinionated with Gusto

Don’t shy away from adding your own opinion to your review. A good book review always features the writer’s viewpoint and constructive criticism. After all, your readers want to know what  you  think!

Express Your Love (or Lack Thereof)

If you adored the book, let your readers know! Use phrases like “I’ll definitely return to this book again” to convey your enthusiasm. Conversely, be honest but respectful even if the book wasn’t your cup of tea.

Templates and Examples and Expert Help: Your Trusty Sidekicks

Feeling lost? You can always get help from formats, book review examples or online  college paper writing service  platforms. These trusty sidekicks will help you navigate the world of book reviews with ease. 

Be a Champion for New Writers and Literature

Remember to uplift new writers and pieces of literature. If you want to suggest improvements, do so kindly and constructively. There’s no need to be mean about anyone’s books – we’re all in this literary adventure together!

Criticize with Clarity, Not Cruelty

When adding criticism to your review, be clear but not mean. Remember, there’s a fine line between constructive criticism and cruelty. Tread lightly and keep your reader’s feelings in mind.

Avoid the Comparison Trap

Resist the urge to compare one writer’s book with another. Every book holds its worth, and comparing them will only confuse your reader. Stick to discussing the book at hand, and let it shine in its own light.

Top 7 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Writing a book review can be a delightful and rewarding experience, especially when you balance analysis, wit, and personal insights. However, some common mistakes can kill the brilliance of your review. 

In this section of “How to write a book review,” we’ll explore the top 7 blunders writers commit and how to steer clear of them, with a dash of  modernist literature  examples and tips for students writing book reviews as assignments.

Succumbing to the Lure of Plot Summaries

Mistake: Diving headfirst into a plot summary instead of dissecting the book’s themes, characters, and writing style.

Example: “The Bell Jar chronicles the life of a young woman who experiences a mental breakdown.”

How to Avoid: Delve into the book’s deeper aspects, such as its portrayal of mental health, societal expectations, and the author’s distinctive narrative voice. Offer thoughtful insights and reflections, making your review a treasure trove of analysis.

Unleashing the Spoiler Kraken

Mistake: Spilling major plot twists or the ending without providing a spoiler warning, effectively ruining the reading experience for potential readers.

Example: “In Metamorphosis, the protagonist’s transformation into a monstrous insect leads to…”

How to Avoid: Tread carefully when discussing significant plot developments, and consider using spoiler warnings. Focus on the impact of these plot points on the overall narrative, character growth, or thematic resonance.

Riding the Personal Bias Express

Mistake: Allowing personal bias to hijack the review without providing sufficient evidence or reasoning to support opinions.

Example: “I detest books about existential crises, so The Sun Also Rises was a snoozefest.”

How to Avoid: While personal opinions are valid, it’s crucial to back them up with specific examples from the book. Discuss aspects like writing style, character development, or pacing to support your evaluation and provide a more balanced perspective.

Wielding the Vague Language Saber

Mistake: Resorting to generic, vague language that fails to capture the nuances of the book and can come across as clichéd.

Example: “This book was mind-blowing. It’s a must-read for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Use precise and descriptive language to express your thoughts. Employ specific examples and quotations to highlight memorable scenes, the author’s unique writing style, or the impact of the book’s themes on readers.

Ignoring the Contextualization Compass

Mistake: Neglecting to provide context about the author, genre, or cultural relevance of the book, leaving readers without a proper frame of reference.

Example: “This book is dull and unoriginal.”

How to Avoid: Offer readers a broader understanding by discussing the author’s background, the genre conventions the book adheres to or subverts, and any societal or historical contexts that inform the narrative. This helps readers appreciate the book’s uniqueness and relevance.

Overindulging in Personal Preferences

Mistake: Letting personal preferences overshadow an objective assessment of the book’s merits.

Example: “I don’t like stream-of-consciousness writing, so this book is automatically bad.”

How to Avoid: Acknowledge personal preferences but strive to evaluate the book objectively. Focus on the book’s strengths and weaknesses, considering how well it achieves its goals within its genre or intended audience.

Forgetting the Target Audience Telescope

Mistake: Failing to mention the book’s target audience or who might enjoy it, leading to confusion for potential readers.

Example: “This book is great for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Contemplate the book’s intended audience, genre, and themes. Mention who might particularly enjoy the book based on these factors, whether it’s fans of a specific genre, readers interested in character-driven stories, or those seeking thought-provoking narratives.

By dodging these common pitfalls, writers can craft insightful, balanced, and engaging book reviews that help readers make informed decisions about their reading choices.

These tips are particularly beneficial for students writing book reviews as assignments, as they ensure a well-rounded and thoughtful analysis.!

Many students requested us to cover how to write a book review. This thorough guide is sure to help you. At Paperperk, professionals are dedicated to helping students find their balance. We understand the importance of good grades, so we offer the finest writing service , ensuring students stay ahead of the curve. So seek expert help because only Paperperk is your perfect solution!

What is the difference between a book review and a report?

Who is the target audience for book reviews and book reports, how do book reviews and reports differ in length and content, can i write professional book reviews, what are the key aspects of writing professional book reviews, how can i enhance my book-reviewing skills to write professional reviews, what should be included in a good book review.

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Your current subscription allows you to be actively logged in on up to three (3) devices simultaneously. click on continue below to log out of other sessions and log in on this device., 31 great new reads, including books by jandy nelson, ellen hopkins, and a ruta sepetys & steve sheinkin collaboration | starred reviews, august 2024.

This month's starred titles include a first day of school story by June Sobel, biographies on Mae Jemison and Roberto Clemente, and a new picture book from Kyle Lukoff.

Back-to-School

SOBEL,  June. First Day, Hooray! illus. by ­Nabila Adani. HarperCollins/Clarion. 

Picture Books

HRAB,  Naseem.  How to Staycation Like a Snail .   illus. by Kelly Collier. Owlkids. 

LUKOFF,  Kyle.  I’m Sorry You Got Mad .   illus. by Julie Kwon. Dial.

OSO,  Maisha.  My Hair Is a Book .   illus. by London Ladd. HarperCollins.

WHITE,  Jesse.  Brave Like Fireweed .   Union Square & Co.

Middle Grade

BAPTISTE,  Tracey.   Boy 2.0 .   Algonquin. 

COLE,  Olivia A.  The Empty Place .   Little, Brown. 

EDGMON,  H.E.  The Flicker .  Feiwel & Friends. 

NGUYEN,  Doan Phuong.  A Two-Placed Heart .   illus. by Olga Lee. Lee & Low/Tu Bks. 

POLONSKY,  Ami.  Every Story Ever Told .   Little, Brown. 

RUNDELL,  Katherine.  Impossible Creatures .   illus. by Ashley Mackenzie. Knopf. 

HOLLIS,  Myah.  Not About a Boy .   HarperTeen.

HOPKINS,  Ellen.  Sync .  Penguin/Nancy Paulsen. 

NELSON,  Jandy.  When the World Tips Over .  Dial. 

RIBAY,  Randy.  Everything We Never Had .   Penguin/Kokila. 

SEPETYS,  Ruta & Steve Sheinkin.  The Bletchley Riddle .   Viking. 

STRINGFIELD,  Ravynn K.  Love Requires ­Chocolate .  Random/Joy Revolution. 

Graphic Novels

HUNSINGER,  Emma. How It All Ends . Greenwillow. 

KOCHALKA,  James. Jimmy’s Elbow . Top Shelf.

RATHGEBER,  Trina. Lost at Windy River: A True Story of Survival . illus. by Alina Pete. Orca. 

WHITLEY,  Jeremy. Navigating with You . illus. by Cassio Ribeiro. Mad Cave Studios. 

WILLIAMS,  Lesley.   It’s Her Story: Mae Jemison . illus. by Brooke O’Neill. PI Kids/Sunbird. 

ALONSO,  Nathalie.  Call Me Roberto!: Roberto Clemente Goes to Bat for Latinos .  illus. by Rudy Gutierrez. Astra/Calkins Creek. 

ARMITAGE,  Dan.  Let’s Learn to Fish!: Everything You Need to Know to Start Freshwater Fishing .  Storey. 

DYSON, Michael Eric & Marc Favreau. Represent: The Unfinished Fight for the Vote . Little, Brown. 

GREEN,  Harold, III.  Words Are My Superpower: A Kid’s Guide to Affirmations, Mantras, and Positive Thinking .  illus. by Andrea Pippins. Running Pr. 

LARSEN,  Andrew.  Gifts from the Garbage Truck: A True Story About the Things We (Don’t) Throw Away .   illus. by Oriol Vidal. Sourcebooks/Explore.

LEBOX,  Annette.  Mother Aspen: A Story of How Forests Cooperate and Communicate .   illus. by Crystal Smith. Groundwood. 

ROBESON,  Teresa.  Clouds in Space: Nebulae, Stardust, and Us .  illus. by Diana Renzina. MIT Kids. 

ROTNER,  Shelley.  Nature Spy Guide .   Lerner/Millbrook. 

WINTER,  Jonah.  It Happened in Salem .  illus. by Brad Holland. Creative Eds. 

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The New York Times Best Sellers - August 11, 2024

Authoritatively ranked lists of books sold in the united states, sorted by format and genre..

This copy is for your personal, noncommercial use only.

• Combined Print & E-Book Fiction

131 weeks on the list

IT ENDS WITH US

by Colleen Hoover

A battered wife raised in a violent home attempts to halt the cycle of abuse.

• Apple Books
• Barnes and Noble
• Books-A-Million
• Bookshop.org

25 weeks on the list

by Kristin Hannah

In 1965, a nursing student follows her brother to serve during the Vietnam War and returns to a divided America.

55 weeks on the list

THE HOUSEMAID

by Freida McFadden

Troubles surface when a woman looking to make a fresh start takes a job in the home of the Winchesters.

16 weeks on the list

A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES

by Sarah J. Maas

After killing a wolf in the woods, Feyre is taken from her home and placed inside the world of the Fae.

5 weeks on the list

THE HOUSEMAID'S SECRET

The second book in the Housemaid series. The sound of crying and the appearance of blood portend misdeeds.

• Combined Print & E-Book Nonfiction

91 weeks on the list

HILLBILLY ELEGY

by J.D. Vance

The Yale Law School graduate and 2024 Republican vice presidential nominee looks at the struggles of the white working class through the story of his own childhood.

New this week

AUTOCRACY, INC.

by Anne Applebaum

The Pulitzer Prize-winning author elucidates the structures and technologies that bolster autocracies in the 21st century.

18 weeks on the list

THE ANXIOUS GENERATION

by Jonathan Haidt

A co-author of “The Coddling of the American Mind” looks at the mental health impacts that a phone-based life has on children.

13 weeks on the list

THE DEMON OF UNREST

by Erik Larson

The author of “The Splendid and the Vile” portrays the months between the election of Abraham Lincoln and the beginning of the Civil War.

204 weeks on the list

THE BODY KEEPS THE SCORE

by Bessel van der Kolk

How trauma affects the body and mind, and innovative treatments for recovery.

• Hardcover Fiction

THE BOOK OF ELSEWHERE

by Keanu Reeves and China Miéville

An immortal soldier known as B strikes a deal with a U.S. black-ops group and encounters a mysterious force.

THE DUKE AND I AND THE VISCOUNT WHO LOVED ME

by Julia Quinn

The first book in the Bridgerton Collector’s Edition series.

64 weeks on the list

FOURTH WING

by Rebecca Yarros

Violet Sorrengail is urged by the commanding general, who also is her mother, to become a candidate for the elite dragon riders.

7 weeks on the list

by Elin Hilderbrand

Nantucket residents are alarmed when a home, recently sold at an exorbitant price, goes up in flames and someone goes missing.

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• Hardcover Nonfiction

75 weeks on the list

8 weeks on the list

THE WAR ON WARRIORS

by Pete Hegseth

The "Fox & Friends Weekend" host shares his experiences serving in the Army and his views on the current state of the American military.

• Paperback Trade Fiction

164 weeks on the list

66 weeks on the list

THE HOUSEMAID IS WATCHING

The third book in the Housemaid series. Dangers lurk in a quiet neighborhood.

IT STARTS WITH US

In the sequel to “It Ends With Us,” Lily deals with her jealous ex-husband as she reconnects with her first boyfriend.

• Paperback Nonfiction

68 weeks on the list

301 weeks on the list

THE ART THIEF

by Michael Finkel

The author of “The Stranger in the Woods” tells the story of Stéphane Breitwieser, who stole art more than 200 times for the sake of admiring it.

by Tom O'Neill and Dan Piepenbring

A reassessment of events surrounding the murders committed by Charles Manson’s followers.

58 weeks on the list

EVERYTHING I KNOW ABOUT LOVE

by Dolly Alderton

The British journalist shares stories and observations; the basis of the TV series.

• Advice, How-To & Miscellaneous

THE BOOK OF BILL

by Alex Hirsch

244 weeks on the list

ATOMIC HABITS

by James Clear

4 weeks on the list

THE ALGEBRA OF WEALTH

by Scott Galloway

THE NEW MENOPAUSE

by Mary Claire Haver

226 weeks on the list

THE BOY, THE MOLE, THE FOX AND THE HORSE

by Charlie Mackesy

• Children’s Middle Grade Hardcover

453 weeks on the list

by R.J. Palacio

A boy with a facial deformity starts school. (Ages 8 to 12)

by Alan Gratz

The friends Frank and Stanley give a vivid account of the Pearl Harbor attack. (Ages 8 to 12)

267 weeks on the list

Three children in three different conflicts look for safe haven. (Ages 9 to 12)

65 weeks on the list

THE SUN AND THE STAR

by Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro

The demigods Will and Nico embark on a dangerous journey to the Underworld to rescue an old friend. (Ages 10 to 14)

41 weeks on the list

WINGS OF FIRE: A GUIDE TO THE DRAGON WORLD

by Tui T. Sutherland. Illustrated by Joy Ang

A deeper dive into the legends of the 10 dragon tribes. (Ages 8 to 12)

• Children’s Picture Books

by Peter H. Reynolds

A celebration of individuality. (Ages 4 to 8)

403 weeks on the list

THE WONDERFUL THINGS YOU WILL BE

by Emily Winfield Martin

A celebration of future possibilities. (Ages 3 to 7)

452 weeks on the list

DRAGONS LOVE TACOS

by Adam Rubin. Illustrated by Daniel Salmieri

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2 weeks on the list

THE YELLOW BUS

by Loren Long

The life span of a yellow school bus. (Ages 3 to 6)

27 weeks on the list

BLUEY: SLEEPYTIME

by Joe Brumm

Bingo wants to do a big girl sleep and wake up in her own bed. (Ages 4 to 8)

• Children’s & Young Adult Series

THE POWERLESS TRILOGY

by Lauren Roberts

A story of forbidden love between Paedyn, an Ordinary, and Kai, an Elite, in the kingdom of Ilya. (Ages 14 and up)

148 weeks on the list

A GOOD GIRL'S GUIDE TO MURDER

by Holly Jackson

Pippa Fitz-Amobi solves murderous crimes. (Ages 14 and up)

THE WILD ROBOT

by Peter Brown

Roz the robot adapts to her surroundings on a remote, wild island. (Ages 7 to 12)

735 weeks on the list

PERCY JACKSON & THE OLYMPIANS

by Rick Riordan

A boy battles mythological monsters. (Ages 9 to 12)

802 weeks on the list

DIARY OF A WIMPY KID

written and illustrated by Jeff Kinney

The travails and challenges of adolescence. (Ages 9 to 12)

• Young Adult Hardcover

17 weeks on the list

THE REAPPEARANCE OF RACHEL PRICE

Annabel Price's mother was presumed dead, until she reappears during the filming of a documentary about her disappearance. (Ages 14 to 17)

3 weeks on the list

THE DARKNESS WITHIN US

by Tricia Levenseller

When Chrysantha's husband, the Duke of Pholios, dies, she believes she's the sole heir to his fortune. Until Eryx Demos arrives and claims to be the duke's estranged grandson. (Ages 13 to 18)

THE SHADOWS BETWEEN US

Alessandra plots to kill the Shadow King and take his kingdom for herself. (Ages 13 to 18)

DIVINE RIVALS

by Rebecca Ross

Two young rival journalists find love through a magical connection. (Ages 13 to 18)

38 weeks on the list

by Alex Aster

In this sequel to "Lightlark," Isla must chose between her two powerful lovers. (Ages 13 and up)

Weekly Best Sellers Lists

Monthly best sellers lists.

How to cite ChatGPT

Use discount code STYLEBLOG15 for 15% off APA Style print products with free shipping in the United States.

We, the APA Style team, are not robots. We can all pass a CAPTCHA test , and we know our roles in a Turing test . And, like so many nonrobot human beings this year, we’ve spent a fair amount of time reading, learning, and thinking about issues related to large language models, artificial intelligence (AI), AI-generated text, and specifically ChatGPT . We’ve also been gathering opinions and feedback about the use and citation of ChatGPT. Thank you to everyone who has contributed and shared ideas, opinions, research, and feedback.

In this post, I discuss situations where students and researchers use ChatGPT to create text and to facilitate their research, not to write the full text of their paper or manuscript. We know instructors have differing opinions about how or even whether students should use ChatGPT, and we’ll be continuing to collect feedback about instructor and student questions. As always, defer to instructor guidelines when writing student papers. For more about guidelines and policies about student and author use of ChatGPT, see the last section of this post.

Quoting or reproducing the text created by ChatGPT in your paper

If you’ve used ChatGPT or other AI tools in your research, describe how you used the tool in your Method section or in a comparable section of your paper. For literature reviews or other types of essays or response or reaction papers, you might describe how you used the tool in your introduction. In your text, provide the prompt you used and then any portion of the relevant text that was generated in response.

Unfortunately, the results of a ChatGPT “chat” are not retrievable by other readers, and although nonretrievable data or quotations in APA Style papers are usually cited as personal communications , with ChatGPT-generated text there is no person communicating. Quoting ChatGPT’s text from a chat session is therefore more like sharing an algorithm’s output; thus, credit the author of the algorithm with a reference list entry and the corresponding in-text citation.

When prompted with “Is the left brain right brain divide real or a metaphor?” the ChatGPT-generated text indicated that although the two brain hemispheres are somewhat specialized, “the notation that people can be characterized as ‘left-brained’ or ‘right-brained’ is considered to be an oversimplification and a popular myth” (OpenAI, 2023).

OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat

You may also put the full text of long responses from ChatGPT in an appendix of your paper or in online supplemental materials, so readers have access to the exact text that was generated. It is particularly important to document the exact text created because ChatGPT will generate a unique response in each chat session, even if given the same prompt. If you create appendices or supplemental materials, remember that each should be called out at least once in the body of your APA Style paper.

When given a follow-up prompt of “What is a more accurate representation?” the ChatGPT-generated text indicated that “different brain regions work together to support various cognitive processes” and “the functional specialization of different regions can change in response to experience and environmental factors” (OpenAI, 2023; see Appendix A for the full transcript).

Creating a reference to ChatGPT or other AI models and software

The in-text citations and references above are adapted from the reference template for software in Section 10.10 of the Publication Manual (American Psychological Association, 2020, Chapter 10). Although here we focus on ChatGPT, because these guidelines are based on the software template, they can be adapted to note the use of other large language models (e.g., Bard), algorithms, and similar software.

The reference and in-text citations for ChatGPT are formatted as follows:

• Parenthetical citation: (OpenAI, 2023)
• Narrative citation: OpenAI (2023)

Let’s break that reference down and look at the four elements (author, date, title, and source):

Author: The author of the model is OpenAI.

Date: The date is the year of the version you used. Following the template in Section 10.10, you need to include only the year, not the exact date. The version number provides the specific date information a reader might need.

Title: The name of the model is “ChatGPT,” so that serves as the title and is italicized in your reference, as shown in the template. Although OpenAI labels unique iterations (i.e., ChatGPT-3, ChatGPT-4), they are using “ChatGPT” as the general name of the model, with updates identified with version numbers.

The version number is included after the title in parentheses. The format for the version number in ChatGPT references includes the date because that is how OpenAI is labeling the versions. Different large language models or software might use different version numbering; use the version number in the format the author or publisher provides, which may be a numbering system (e.g., Version 2.0) or other methods.

Bracketed text is used in references for additional descriptions when they are needed to help a reader understand what’s being cited. References for a number of common sources, such as journal articles and books, do not include bracketed descriptions, but things outside of the typical peer-reviewed system often do. In the case of a reference for ChatGPT, provide the descriptor “Large language model” in square brackets. OpenAI describes ChatGPT-4 as a “large multimodal model,” so that description may be provided instead if you are using ChatGPT-4. Later versions and software or models from other companies may need different descriptions, based on how the publishers describe the model. The goal of the bracketed text is to briefly describe the kind of model to your reader.

Source: When the publisher name and the author name are the same, do not repeat the publisher name in the source element of the reference, and move directly to the URL. This is the case for ChatGPT. The URL for ChatGPT is https://chat.openai.com/chat . For other models or products for which you may create a reference, use the URL that links as directly as possible to the source (i.e., the page where you can access the model, not the publisher’s homepage).

Other questions about citing ChatGPT

You may have noticed the confidence with which ChatGPT described the ideas of brain lateralization and how the brain operates, without citing any sources. I asked for a list of sources to support those claims and ChatGPT provided five references—four of which I was able to find online. The fifth does not seem to be a real article; the digital object identifier given for that reference belongs to a different article, and I was not able to find any article with the authors, date, title, and source details that ChatGPT provided. Authors using ChatGPT or similar AI tools for research should consider making this scrutiny of the primary sources a standard process. If the sources are real, accurate, and relevant, it may be better to read those original sources to learn from that research and paraphrase or quote from those articles, as applicable, than to use the model’s interpretation of them.

We’ve also received a number of other questions about ChatGPT. Should students be allowed to use it? What guidelines should instructors create for students using AI? Does using AI-generated text constitute plagiarism? Should authors who use ChatGPT credit ChatGPT or OpenAI in their byline? What are the copyright implications ?

On these questions, researchers, editors, instructors, and others are actively debating and creating parameters and guidelines. Many of you have sent us feedback, and we encourage you to continue to do so in the comments below. We will also study the policies and procedures being established by instructors, publishers, and academic institutions, with a goal of creating guidelines that reflect the many real-world applications of AI-generated text.

For questions about manuscript byline credit, plagiarism, and related ChatGPT and AI topics, the APA Style team is seeking the recommendations of APA Journals editors. APA Style guidelines based on those recommendations will be posted on this blog and on the APA Style site later this year.

Update: APA Journals has published policies on the use of generative AI in scholarly materials .

We, the APA Style team humans, appreciate your patience as we navigate these unique challenges and new ways of thinking about how authors, researchers, and students learn, write, and work with new technologies.

American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000

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