15 Books for Young Readers
Books have this magical way of turning everyday moments into grand adventures and for kids, that magic is even stronger. Below we are going to showcase the best reads for ages 5 to 12 years old. Young readers are wide eyed explorers, soaking up stories that spark imagination, build confidence, and even sneak in a few life lessons along the way. Whether it’s giggling over silly characters, getting lost in a fantasy world, or uncovering fascinating facts about the real world, books are their ticket to endless possibilities.
That’s why we’ve gathered some of the very best diverse reads that inspire, delight, and keep them reaching for just one more chapter. From picture heavy page turners to gripping adventures and heartfelt tales, this collection is all about celebrating the joy of reading at every stage of childhood.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Super Interesting Facts for Smart Kids
- The Last Bear
- The Day I Fell into a Fairytale
- There’s a Snake in my School
- The Boys Guide to Growing Up
- Would you Rather Game Book
- Interesting Facts for Curious Minds
- Maggie Sparks: 5 Book Collection
- The Secret Lake: A Children’s Mystery Adventure
- The Girls Guide to Growing Up
- Dreamers
- The Proudest Blue
- The House at the Edge of Magic
- Demon Dentist
- The Chocolate Unicorn
Super Interesting Facts for Smart Kids
If your kid is the type who can’t stop asking “Why? How? What if?” Then Super Interesting Facts for Smart Kids by Jordan Moore is basically their dream come true. This book is packed with over 1,200 bite sized facts that will make your little trivia lover’s brain do a happy dance.
We’re talking the kind of facts that make kids run into the kitchen yelling, “MOM, DID YOU KNOW OCTOPUSES HAVE THREE HEARTS?!” (Yes, three hearts.) Or that ATMs in Vatican City actually give instructions in Latin (fancy, right?). Oh, and tug-of-war? Totally used to be an Olympic sport.
The book is split into 12 themed chapters animals, space, history, language, you name it, and it even has a “Pot Luck” section for the extra weird and wonderful stuff (like an instrument so big you need to stand on a chair to play it).
It’s perfect for ages 6–12, but honestly? Grown-ups might end up sneaking in a few chapters, too. Each fact comes with a checkbox, so kids can keep track of all the amazing bits they’ve “collected” like little knowledge trophies.
Basically, this isn’t just a book, it’s a boredom buster, a conversation starter, and a one way ticket to your kid becoming the family’s trivia champ.
The Last Bear
Okay, so picture this; an 11 year old girl named April gets shipped off to a place called Bear Island (which, spoiler, doesn’t actually have any bears anymore, or so everyone thinks). Her dad’s a scientist who’s way too busy with his research to notice much, which means April spends a lot of time alone exploring.
Where she stumbles across a real, live polar bear. He’s not scary and roaring; he’s weak, lonely, and in desperate need of help. Instead of freaking out, April does what any big hearted kid would do, she befriends him. What follows is this incredible, heart tugging adventure as she tries to figure out how to get her new friend back home to where he belongs.
This book is basically a big warm hug wrapped up in snowy Arctic vibes. It’s about friendship, bravery, and that whole one small person can actually make a huge difference. Oh, and fair warning, you’ll probably cry happy tears at least once.
Perfect for ages 8 to 12 (but let’s be real, grown ups are going love it too), The Last Bear is one of those modern classics that kids will remember long after the last page.
The Day I Fell into a Fairytale
The Day I Fell Into a Fairy tale by Ben Miller is most kid’s dream come true, because who doesn’t secretly wish a boring trip to the supermarket could turn into an epic adventure?
Lana loves stories she could tell them all day, but her big brother Harrison has decided he’s too grown up for that stuff. One day, Lana finds a hidden portal to a real life fairy tale world tucked away in the supermarket. And it’s not all glitter and unicorns, this place is straight out of the darker Grimm tales, with a not so nice witch causing big trouble.
Now it’s up to Lana to save the day, and maybe convince her brother that imagination isn’t just for little kids. Think Narnia meets aisle seven of your local grocery store, with a dash of sibling drama and a whole lot of magic.
Perfect for ages 8 to 12, or for anyone who secretly wishes they could step into a fairy tale themselves.
There's a Snake in my School
Imagine turning up to school with the coolest pet ever, not a hamster, not a rabbit, but… a gigantic, friendly snake! That’s exactly what happens when Miranda brings her pet python to class for show and tell. Naturally, chaos follows (because, well… snake).
While the kids think it’s brilliant, the grumpy headmistress, Miss Bloat, is not amused, and let’s just say things get even wilder from there. It’s a classic David Walliams book which means totally bonkers, laugh out loud funny, and just a little bit cheeky.
Add in Tony Ross’s bright, hilarious illustrations, you’ve got a picture book that kids will want to read again and again. It’s perfect for giggles at story time, especially if your little one loves animals, silliness, and seeing grown ups get outsmarted.
The Boys Guide to Growing Up
The Boys’ Guide to Growing Up by Phil Wilkinson is a book about puberty, but less scary. Think of it as a super chill buddy, walking boys through all the weird, funny, and confusing stuff that happens as their bodies start changing.
It covers everything; hair sprouting in new places, spots popping up at the worst times, voice cracks, mood swings, hygiene tips, exercise, and even a simple, age appropriate look at how babies are made. There’s even a bit on understanding what’s happening with girls, because empathy is always cool.
Perfect for 9 to 11 year olds (or anyone just starting to notice changes), this book is short, friendly, and totally reassuring. It’s like having an older cousin say, “Yep, all this is normal. You’ve got this!”
It turns puberty from a big mystery into something much easier to understand, and maybe even something to have a little laugh about.
Would you Rather Game Book
If you love silly questions that make you laugh out loud, this book is a total winner. Packed with hilarious “Would You Rather” scenarios, it’s perfect for long car rides, sleepovers, or just hanging out at home. Imagine deciding whether you’d rather have spaghetti for hair or maple syrup for sweat, or choosing between a pet dinosaur and a pet dragon, yep it’s that kind of fun.
It’s short, snappy, and easy to pick up anytime. You can play it with friends, family, or even by yourself if you just want to imagine the weirdest, funniest situations ever. Kids aged 6 to 12 will love it, but honestly, adults get a kick out of it too.
It’s pure giggle inducing fun in book form.
Interesting Facts for Curious Minds
If you’re the type who loves to drop random, mind blowing facts at parties, or just enjoy filling your brain with cool tidbits, this book is your new best friend. Packed with 1,572 fascinating facts across 63 chapters, it covers everything from science and history to pop culture and beyond.
Want to know when zero became a number? Or what the Big Bang might’ve sounded like? Curious about the inventor of Bitcoin or how sports have evolved worldwide? This book has all the answers and more, presented in bite sized, easy to digest pieces.
Whether you’re reading it cover to cover or flipping to a random chapter for a quick fact fix, it’s perfect for sparking conversations, impressing your friends, or just satisfying your curiosity. Plus, it’s a great way to pass the time, relax, or connect with others over some truly interesting facts.
So, if you’re ready to learn something new and fun, grab a copy of Interesting Facts for Curious Minds and start exploring the wonders of the world around you.
Maggie Sparks: 5 Book Collection
Maggie Sparks is a spirited little witch who finds herself in all sorts of magical mischief. Whether she’s dealing with a noisy monster baby, navigating the challenges of swimming lessons, or facing the chaos of a new school, Maggie tackles it all with a mix of magic, humour, and heart. Each story combines enchanting adventures with relatable situations, making them ideal for young readers transitioning into chapter books.
The 5 Book Collection
The Maggie Sparks 5 Book Collection includes:
Maggie Sparks and the Monster Baby: Maggie’s life turns upside down when a noisy, smelly baby brother arrives. Can her magic help her reclaim her parents’ attention?
Maggie Sparks and the Swimming Pool Sharks: Reluctantly signed up for swimming lessons, Maggie uses her magical abilities to navigate the pool and help her friend Arthur.
Maggie Sparks and the Truth Dragon: After being misunderstood, Maggie’s lies spiral out of control. She must use her magic to mend friendships and restore the truth.
Maggie Sparks and the School of Slime: Facing a new school with a possibly vampiric teacher, Maggie’s magic is put to the test as she adapts to her new environment.
Maggie Sparks and the Alien Invasion: Trying to fit in with Arthur’s science loving friends, Maggie’s magical mishaps lead to an unexpected adventure involving space and aliens.
Bonus: Free Audiobooks Included
Each book in the collection comes with a free audiobook, allowing children to enjoy the stories through listening, perfect for bedtime or on the go entertainment.
Get your 30 day Free Trial of Audible today by checking out the link HERE.
The Secret Lake: A Children's Mystery Adventure
Imagine moving to a new house and discovering a hidden tunnel that takes you back in time to 100 years into the past! That’s exactly what Stella and her younger brother Tom find when they start looking for their elderly neighbour’s missing dog. What begins as a simple rescue mission quickly turns into a thrilling adventure filled with time traveling mysteries.
Along the way, they meet Jack, a boy from the past who needs their help, and together they hatch a daring plan to save the day. As the story unfolds, Stella and Tom uncover surprising connections between the past and present, making the adventure both exciting and heart warming.
Perfect for young readers who love mysteries with a twist of history, The Secret Lake keeps you hooked from start to finish. Stella and Tom’s bravery and sibling bond make the story relatable, and the time travel element adds a fun, imaginative layer that will have kids dreaming of secret tunnels and hidden adventures of their own.
The Girls Guide to Growing Up
Growing up is an adventure, and this book is like your trusty map. Aimed at girls aged between 8 to 10 years, it’s a friendly, reassuring guide to the changes that come with puberty. From periods and body hair to mood swings and self esteem, Anita Naik breaks it all down with warmth and clarity. Think of it as a chat with a cool older sister who’s got all the answers.
The book covers everything from the basics like what puberty is and what changes to expect, to practical tips on hygiene, healthy eating, and managing new feelings. It also touches on how puberty affects boys, offering a well rounded perspective.
Whether you’re reading it solo or with a parent, it’s designed to make the journey into growing up a little less confusing and a lot more empowering.
Dreamers
If you want a bedtime story that feels like wrapping your kids in a warm hug while also planting seeds of big, beautiful dreams; Dreamers by Yuyi Morales is it!
It’s a stunning picture book about the journey of a mother and child moving to a new country, carrying nothing but their love, resilience, and imagination. The illustrations are gorgeous, seriously, you could frame every page (check out our blog about the wonderful illustrations). The story is layered and kids will be captivated by the colours and rhythm, while parents will feel the deeper heartbeat of hope and belonging. It’s one of those books that reminds your family what courage looks like, and why stories matter. This is one of our top picks due to its meaning and beautiful illustrations.
The Proudest Blue
Okay, picture this; a book that bursts onto the shelves, wrapped in all the brilliance of sapphire seas and starlit skies. The Proudest Blue by Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad (yep, actual Olympian turned author, how cool is that?) became a New York Times bestseller for good reason.
It’s the heart warming, beautifully illustrated story of two sisters on the first day of school, with one proudly wearing her hijab for the very first time. It’s about strength, pride, and identity, all told with the kind of lyrical magic that makes you want to hug the book after reading it.
It’s part children’s story, part confidence anthem, wrapped in jaw dropping art. A bestseller? More like a best treasure. For a more thorough review of this wonderful book check out the blog HERE.
The House at the Edge of Magic
The House at the Edge of Magic is a whirlwind adventure full of wit, wonder, and just the right amount of weirdness. The story follows Nine, a scrappy pickpocket who stumbles across a strange, little house inside a magical object. Once she steps inside, she meets an unforgettable cast of eccentric characters; a troll who loves tea, a house with a mind of its own, and plenty of laugh out loud surprises. But there’s also a curse hanging over the house, and Nine might just be the only one clever and brave enough to break it.
Children will love this book because it’s fast paced, funny, and stuffed with the kind of quirky magic that makes you want to read “just one more chapter.” Families will appreciate how it blends humour with heart. Nine isn’t just discovering magic, she’s also discovering friendship, courage, and the possibility of a better life.
The writing sparkles (pun absolutely intended) with imagination, making it perfect for fans of The Worst Witch or How to Train Your Dragon. It’s the kind of story that begs to be read aloud, with plenty of giggles guaranteed, and it opens the door to a whole new series for kids to fall in love with.
Demon Dentist
Demon Dentist by David Walliams is a spooky but hilarious adventure where Alfie, a boy who already dreads the dentist, discovers that something very wrong is happening in town. Instead of shiny coins from the tooth fairy, kids are waking up to find dead slugs, creepy crawlies, and all sorts of gross horrors under their pillows. The new dentist, Miss Root, with her too perfect smile and sinister ways, is clearly hiding something, and it’s up to Alfie to uncover the truth.
Why should you grab it? Because it’s the perfect mix of giggles and goosebumps! Walliams delivers that cheeky, Roald Dahl style magic that makes kids feel like they’re in on a deliciously mischievous secret. It’s packed with gross out fun, laugh out loud moments, and just the right amount of shivers, while sneaking in a big hearted story about bravery, family, and standing up for yourself. In short: it’ll turn bedtime reading into the best part of the day.
The Chocolate Unicorn
Oh, you’re going to love this one it’s as sweet, sparkly, and heart squeezing as its name suggests!
The Chocolate Unicorn by Jenny McLachlan (with utterly adorable illustrations by Sarah Lawrence) is the kind of story that makes you want to dive straight into its pages preferably with a mug of cocoa and your cosiest blanket.
Meet Olive Brown, a little girl who’s scared of, well… pretty much everything. She worries about the dark, the unknown, and all those “what ifs” that love to dance around in our heads. But one day, her Grandpa gives her a mysterious little box of magic and inside is something truly special: a chocolate unicorn who’s about to gallop into Olive’s life and sprinkle it with courage, kindness, and just the right amount of magic dust.
This whimsical tale is packed with heart, humour, and a dash of bravery perfect for young readers who might sometimes feel a little wobbly about the world. With stunning, expressive illustrations that bring Olive’s imagination to life, The Chocolate Unicorn is a reminder that courage doesn’t mean not being scared it’s about finding your sparkle and facing the world anyway.
It’s sweet, it’s magical, and it’s pure story time joy making it the perfect treat for little readers with big hearts.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it a treasure trove of stories just waiting to spark imaginations, fuel curiosity, and maybe even create a few lifelong bookworms along the way. Whether your young reader is diving into their very first chapter book or already tearing through novels faster than you can restock the bookshelf, there’s something magical about finding stories that make them forget the world around them.
Books open up endless worlds, from wild adventures and mysterious quests to laugh out loud moments and heart tugging lessons. So keep turning those pages, cheering them on, and sharing the joy of reading because every great reader starts with just one great book.
Here’s to stories that stick, characters that inspire, and a lifetime love of reading that starts right now.