Top Books Teachers Recommend for Grades 3–5

We asked teachers to weigh in on their top picks for middle grade readers.

Aug 30, 2024

Ages

8-10

Top Books Teachers Recommend for Grades 3–5

Aug 30, 2024

Getting “just-right” books into young readers’ hands is the best way to ensure kids read regularly and develop a love of reading that lasts a lifetime. 

If you’re looking for some inspiration and recommendations to encourage healthy reading habits and help your child develop critical skills, then you’re in the right place!  

We asked dozens of teachers via the Scholastic Innovation Lab which books they’d recommend for kids in grades 3–5 — and the response was large and varied.

Plus, check out these 100 incredible books all under $5. 

The books the teachers recommended spanned different genres and formats — from historical fiction and fantasy to graphic novels and chapter books. But they all had one thing in common: compelling storylines and characters young readers can relate to. 

For example, many teachers mentioned how much their students love the I Survived series, while others called out the Baby-sitters Club graphic novels. Some teachers pointed to high-level picture books, like Henry’s Freedom Box, and others recommended young adult novels by Alan Gratz, such as Refugee and Allies

Check out the full list of teacher recommendations for kids in grades 3–5 below. You can shop all books and resources in The Scholastic Store

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