Are you looking for books that your 3rd grader can really sink their teeth into? From page-turning mysteries to laugh-out-loud amazing adventures, chapter books are the perfect way to get your child engaged in reading.
To help you find the best of the bunch, we’ve compiled a list of our top 5 picks for 3rd graders. So sit back and relax, because these riveting tales will have your child captivated for hours on end.
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How We Chose The Chapter Books For 3rd Graders
When selecting the top five chapter books for 3rd graders, we considered a variety of factors. We looked at age-appropriateness, readability, and how engaging the story was for younger readers. On top of that, we made sure to choose books from various genres so that you can find something to suit your child’s particular interests.
Also, we wanted to make sure that the stories had memorable quirky characters, exciting plots, and interesting themes. And finally, we wanted to provide books that were well-written and had positive messages. So without further ado, let’s dive in.
The Phantom Tollbooth
Why It's Our Top Pick
The Phantom Tollbooth is an entertaining and engaging story with a wide variety of characters and settings. It teaches lessons about problem-solving, and encourages readers to think critically. The language is complex enough to keep children interested, but not too much so that they can’t understand it.
With its clever puns and wordplay, this classic is sure to keep your third grade captivated for hours on end. The Phantom Tollbooth is a timeless tale that will be enjoyed by reluctant readers of all ages. Also, the illustrations by Jules Feiffer are sure to bring a smile to your child’s face. This book is an excellent choice for introducing children to the magical world of fantasy and imagination.
Wayside School Boxed Set
Why It's Our Top Pick
This is a great choice for 3rd graders who are looking for something fun and light-hearted. The stories in the Wayside School series are full of absurdity and comedy, making them perfect for readers who want something that’s both funny and easy to read. Plus, the characters in these books are so wacky that your child is sure to be entertained.
The stories also provide valuable lessons about friendship and acceptance. Also, with four books in the series, your child will have plenty of reading material to keep them occupied. And finally, with a Newbery Medal-winning author and zany illustrations, your child will be in for an unforgettable reading experience.
All The Details
The Wayside School Boxed Set is a charming collection of books for 3rd graders who enjoy humorous stories. The set includes three classic stories from the beloved series: Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger, Wayside School Is Falling Down, and Sideways Stories from Wayside School. While the stories are full of outrageous moments and characters, they also contain relatable themes that young readers can easily understand. Kids 7 to 13 will be delighted by the fast-paced nature of these chapter books and will giggle through their adventures.
And don’t forget about the brand-new fourth installment in the series, Wayside School Beneath the Cloud of Doom! Get ready for more laughs, zany music and art academy, and plenty of absurdity. This boxed set makes a great gift for 3rd graders who love to read.
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Why It's Our Top Pick
The Fantastic Mr. Fox is a beloved classic by Roald Dahl and is sure to captivate the imaginations of 3rd graders everywhere. This story tells the tale of a crafty fox graphic novel that outsmarts three mean farmers in order to feed his family. Filled with vivid characters, witty dialogue, and exciting adventure, this book will have your child laughing, cheering, and rooting for our hero Mr. Fox all the way through to the end.
Plus, with its vivid illustrations and beautiful narrative, this book is sure to become a favorite of yours as well. Also, this book is a great way to introduce your child to the beloved works of Roald Dahl, as it’s one of his most accessible stories for young readers.
All The Details
The Fantastic Mr. Fox was written by Roald Dahl and illustrated by Quentin Blake, making it a great read for 3rd graders who are just beginning to develop more complex reading skills. With a combination of humor and drama, Fantastic Mr. Fox will have your child hooked from the beginning.
The paperpack edition is perfect for handing out to friends or keeping in a backpack for some on-the-go reading. The Fantastic Mr. Fox is the perfect chapter book for 3rd graders.
The BFG
Why It's Our Top Pick
The BFG is a perfect pick for 3rd graders who enjoy imaginative stories. Written by the beloved author Roald Dahl, this book tells the story of Sophie, who is taken away by a kind-hearted giant and brought to Giant Country. Written with Dahl’s trademark wit and humor, The BFG will have your child entranced from beginning to end as they follow Sophie’s daring journey with her big friendly giant companion.
Plus, this book is accompanied by vibrant illustrations that will captivate the imaginations of 3rd graders and make this book even more enjoyable. Also, this book is a great way to introduce children to the works of Roald Dahl, as it’s one of his most accessible stories for young readers.
All The Details
The BFG is a compelling and imaginative story about the unlikely friendship between an orphan girl named Sophie and a 24-foot tall, big-hearted Giant. Published in 1982, it has become one of Roald Dahl’s most beloved stories, selling over 37 million copies worldwide. With illustrations by Quentin Blake, this timeless classic is sure to captivate the hearts and minds of young readers for years to come.
The BFG has been adapted into a live-action movie directed by Steven Spielberg in 2016. Also, look for The BFG in the new Disney+ streaming service.
Stella Díaz Has Something to Say
Why It's Our Top Pick
Stella Díaz Has Something to Say is an award-winning graphic novels that celebrates the power of friendship, family and finding your voice. Written by Angela Dominguez, this story follows Stella Diaz, a Mexican-American 3rd grader who feels alone after her best friend moves away. She must find the courage to speak up and make new friends in order to overcome her fears.
Featuring vibrant illustrations throughout, this book is perfect for any 3rd grader looking for an inspiring and heartwarming read. Plus, the integration of simple Spanish vocabulary allows for bilingual readers to become even more immersed in Stella's story.
All The Details
The Stella Díaz series continues with the next installment: Stella Díaz Never Gives Up. The Stella Díaz books are perfect for your 3rd grader's transition into longer works and her journey through middle school. With its relatable protagonist, heartwarming illustrations, and bilingual approach to language learning, this beloved book is sure to be a hit with your 3rd grader.
So pull up a chair and get ready to dive into this delightful story. Stella Díaz Has Something to Say is a great way to encourage your child's love of reading and broaden their horizons as they explore the world around them.
Chapter Books For 3rd Graders FAQs
What kind of books should I look for to keep a 3rd grader engaged?
Look for books that will capture your child's imagination and keep them hooked until the very end. Adventure, mystery and humor are all great genres for 3rd graders to dive into.
What other tips should I keep in mind for books for 3rd graders?
Be sure to find books that match your child’s reading level so they can better understand and enjoy the story. Also, make sure the book is age-appropriate and has topics that are interesting to them.
Should I get a physical or digital copy of books for kids?
That depends on your child’s preference and what type of device they have access to. If they would rather read from a physical book, make sure you get one that is durable enough to withstand multiple readings.
Should I read along with my child?
Absolutely! Reading together is a great way to bond while also promoting literacy. Plus, you can help explain any difficult concepts or words that your child may not understand.
Should 3rd graders be reading chapter books?
Yes. Chapter books are a great way to get your child into reading. They provide a sense of accomplishment and encourage further exploration with more complex stories.
What are the benefits of chapter books?
Chapter books offer a variety of benefits for 3rd graders. They provide age-appropriate content and allow your child to explore bigger, more complex stories. Plus, they encourage independent reading and help build confidence with each successful read.
Why are they called chapter books?
Chapter book readers are called that because they are typically divided into distinct chapters. Each chapter contains a certain plot or story arc and usually has its own title.
Chapter Books For 3rd Graders
We’ve taken a look at the top five chapter books for 3rd graders to show how each of them will engage kids with lively adventures, a sense of humor, memorable characters, and an important message to learn. Whether your child desires a classic tale or something more modern, these popular titles should serve traveling companions through the next year.
As you can see, there are exemplary works out there which prove that reading for pleasure can be fun and educational. If you are looking for an extra boost in reading comprehension, these choices can help your 3rd grader make the transition into longer form content better than ever before.
Moreover, introducing them to literature at a young age provides potential benefits such as improved critical thinking and writing skills -- all while having some much needed fun.
Lindsay Sewell
Lindsay Sewell
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