book report books for 6th grade

50 Must-Read Books for 6th Graders

Here is a list of the best books for 6th graders to soothe insecurities and broaden their visions, from a variety of diverse authors in different genres.

Yashvi Peeti

Yashvi Peeti is an aspiring writer and an aspiring penguin. She has worked as an editorial intern with Penguin Random House India and HarperCollins Publishers India. She is always up for fangirling over poetry, taking a walk in a park, and painting tiny canvases. You can find her on Instagram @intangible.perception

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Anyone who remembers the awkward years of middle school—or is currently experiencing them—understands the anxieties and possibilities that come with that tender age. Books can serve as loyal companions for 6th graders to help them get through life with self awareness and the knowledge that they are not alone. It’s also such a wonderful age to be introduced to books with diverse voices and cultures that stir compassion, curiosity and creativity. Here is a list of the best books for 6th graders to soothe their insecurities and broaden their vision.

Graphic Novels for 6th Graders

1. Stargazing by Jen Wang

“When Moon’s family moves in next door to Christine’s, Moon goes from unlikely friend to best friend―maybe even the perfect friend. The girls share their favorite music videos, paint their toenails when Christine’s strict parents aren’t around, and make plans to enter the school talent show together. Moon even tells Christine her deepest secret: that she sometimes has visions of celestial beings who speak to her from the stars. Who reassure her that earth isn’t where she really belongs.

But when they’re least expecting it, catastrophe strikes. After relying on Moon for everything, can Christine find it in herself to be the friend Moon needs?

New York Times –bestselling author-illustrator Jen Wang draws on her childhood to paint a deeply personal yet wholly relatable friendship story that’s at turns joyful, heart-wrenching, and full of hope.”

2. New Kid by Jerry Craft

“Seventh grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade.

As he makes the daily trip from his Washington Heights apartment to the upscale Riverdale Academy Day School, Jordan soon finds himself torn between two worlds—and not really fitting into either one. Can Jordan learn to navigate his new school culture while keeping his neighborhood friends and staying true to himself?”

3. Pashmina by Nidhi Chanani

“Priyanka Das has so many unanswered questions: Why did her mother abandon her home in India years ago? What was it like there? And most importantly, who is her father, and why did her mom leave him behind? But Pri’s mom avoids these questions–the topic of India is permanently closed.

For Pri, her mother’s homeland can only exist in her imagination. That is, until she find a mysterious pashmina tucked away in a forgotten suitcase. When she wraps herself in it, she is transported to a place more vivid and colorful than any guidebook or Bollywood film. But is this the real India? And what is that shadow lurking in the background? To learn the truth, Pri must travel farther than she’s ever dared and find the family she never knew.”

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4. El Deafo by Cece Bell and David Lasky

“Starting at a new school is scary, even more so with a giant hearing aid strapped to your chest! At her old school, everyone in Cece’s class was deaf. Here she is different. She is sure the kids are staring at the Phonic Ear, the powerful aid that will help her hear her teacher. Too bad it also seems certain to repel potential friends.

Then Cece makes a startling discovery. With the Phonic Ear she can hear her teacher not just in the classroom, but anywhere her teacher is in school — in the hallway… in the teacher’s lounge… in the bathroom! This is power. Maybe even superpower! Cece is on her way to becoming El Deafo, Listener for All. But the funny thing about being a superhero is that it’s just another way of feeling different… and lonely. Can Cece channel her powers into finding the thing she wants most, a true friend?”

5. Smile (Smile #1) by Raina Telgemeier

“Raina just wants to be a normal sixth grader. But one night after Girl Scouts she trips and falls, severely injuring her two front teeth, and what follows is a long and frustrating journey with on-again, off-again braces, surgery, embarrassing headgear, and even a retainer with fake teeth attached. And on top of all that, there’s still more to deal with: a major earthquake, boy confusion, and friends who turn out to be not so friendly. This coming-of-age true story is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever been in middle school, and especially those who have ever had a bit of their own dental drama.”

6. Invisible Emmie (Emmie & Friends) by Terri Libenson

“This is the story of two totally different girls—quiet, shy, artistic Emmie and popular, outgoing, athletic Katie—and how their lives unexpectedly intersect one day when an embarrassing note falls into the wrong hands.”

7. Real Friends (Real Friends #1) by Shannon Hale (Writer) , LeUyen Pham (Illustrator), Jane Poole (Colorist)

“When best friends are not forever . . .

Shannon and Adrienne have been best friends ever since they were little. But one day, Adrienne starts hanging out with Jen, the most popular girl in class and the leader of a circle of friends called The Group. Everyone in The Group wants to be Jen’s #1, and some girls would do anything to stay on top . . . even if it means bullying others.

Now every day is like a roller coaster for Shannon. Will she and Adrienne stay friends? Can she stand up for herself? And is she in The Group—or out?

Newbery Honor author Shannon Hale and  New York Times bestselling illustrator LeUyen Pham join forces in this graphic memoir about how hard it is to find your real friends—and why it’s worth the journey.”

8. Coraline by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell

“The fourteenth is locked, and on the other side is only a brick wall, until the day Coraline unlocks the door to find a passage to another flat in another house just like her own.

Only it’s different.

At first, things seem marvelous in the other flat. The food is better. The toy box is filled with wind-up angels that flutter around the bedroom, books whose pictures writhe and crawl and shimmer, little dinosaur skulls that chatter their teeth. But there’s another mother, and another father, and they want Coraline to stay with them and be their little girl. They want to change her and never let her go.

Other children are trapped there as well, lost souls behind the mirrors. Coraline is their only hope of rescue. She will have to fight with all her wits and all the tools she can find if she is to save the lost children, her ordinary life, and herself.

Critically acclaimed and award-winning author Neil Gaiman will delight readers with his first novel for all ages.”

9. Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Diary of a Wimpy Kid #1) by Jeff Kinney

“Boys don’t keep diaries—or do they?

The launch of an exciting and innovatively illustrated new series narrated by an unforgettable kid every family can relate to

It’s a new school year, and Greg Heffley finds himself thrust into middle school, where undersized weaklings share the hallways with kids who are taller, meaner, and already shaving. The hazards of growing up before you’re ready are uniquely revealed through words and drawings as Greg records them in his diary.

In book one of this debut series, Greg is happy to have Rowley, his sidekick, along for the ride. But when Rowley’s star starts to rise, Greg tries to use his best friend’s newfound popularity to his own advantage, kicking off a chain of events that will test their friendship in hilarious fashion.

Author/illustrator Jeff Kinney recalls the growing pains of school life and introduces a new kind of hero who epitomizes the challenges of being a kid. As Greg says in his diary, “Just don’t expect me to be all ‘Dear Diary’ this and ‘Dear Diary’ that.†? Luckily for us, what Greg Heffley says he won’t do and what he actually does are two very different things.”

10. Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School #1) by Svetlana Chmakova

“Cardinal rule #1 for surviving school: Don’t get noticed by the mean kids.

Cardinal rule #2 for surviving school: Seek out groups with similar interests and join them.

On her first day at her new school, Penelope–Peppi–Torres reminds herself of these basics. But when she trips into a quiet boy in the hall, Jaime Thompson, she’s already broken the first rule, and the mean kids start calling her the “nerder girlfriend.” How does she handle this crisis? By shoving poor Jaime and running away!

Falling back on rule two and surrounding herself with new friends in the art club, Peppi still can’t help feeling ashamed about the way she treated Jaime. Things are already awkward enough between the two, but to make matters worse, he’s a member of her own club’s archrivals–the science club! And when the two clubs go to war, Peppi realizes that sometimes you have to break the rules to survive middle school!”

11. The Stonekeeper (Amulet #1) by Kazu Kibuishi

“Graphic novel star Kazu Kibuishi creates a world of terrible, man-eating demons, a mechanical rabbit, a giant robot—and two ordinary children on a life-or-death mission.

After the tragic death of their father, Emily and Navin move with their mother to the home of her deceased great-grandfather, but the strange house proves to be dangerous. Before long, a sinister creature lures the kids’ mom through a door in the basement. Em and Navin, desperate not to lose her, follow her into an underground world inhabited by demons, robots, and talking animals.

Eventually, they enlist the help of a small mechanical rabbit named Miskit. Together with Miskit, they face the most terrifying monster of all, and Em finally has the chance to save someone she loves.”

To find more illustrated books for 6th graders, check out our graphic novels recommendations for middle graders.

Realistic Books for 6th Graders

12. a good kind of trouble by lisa moore ramée.

“Twelve-year-old Shayla is allergic to trouble. All she wants to do is to follow the rules. (Oh, and she’d also like to make it through seventh grade with her best friendships intact, learn to run track, and have a cute boy see past her giant forehead.)

But in junior high, it’s like all the rules have changed. Now she’s suddenly questioning who her best friends are and some people at school are saying she’s not black enough. Wait,  what ?

Shay’s sister, Hana, is involved in Black Lives Matter, but Shay doesn’t think that’s for her. After experiencing a powerful protest, though, Shay decides some rules are worth breaking. She starts wearing an armband to school in support of the Black Lives movement. Soon everyone is taking sides. And she is given an ultimatum.

Shay is scared to do the wrong thing (and even more scared to do the right thing), but if she doesn’t face her fear, she’ll be forever tripping over the next hurdle. Now that’s trouble, for real.”

13. The Inexplicable Logic of My Life by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

“A warmly humane look at universal questions of belonging, infused with humour, from the bestselling author of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe .

Sal used to know his place with his adoptive gay father, their loving Mexican American family, and his best friend, Samantha. But it’s senior year, and suddenly Sal is throwing punches, questioning everything, and realizing he no longer knows himself. If Sal’s not who he thought he was, who is he?”

14. Ways to Live Forever by Sally Nicholls

“My name is Sam. I am eleven years old. I collect stories and fantastic facts. By the time you read this, I will probably be dead.”

Sam loves facts. He wants to know about UFOs and horror movies and airships and ghosts and scientists, and how it feels to kiss a girl. And because he has leukaemia he wants to know the facts about dying. Sam needs answers to the questions nobody will answer. “Ways To Live Forever” is the first novel from an extraordinarily talented young writer. Funny and honest, it is one of the most powerful and uplifting books you will ever read.”

15. Front Desk by Kelly Yang

“Mia Tang has a lot of secrets.

Number 1: She lives in a motel, not a big house. Every day, while her immigrant parents clean the rooms, ten-year-old Mia manages the front desk of the Calivista Motel and tends to its guests.

Number 2: Her parents hide immigrants. And if the mean motel owner, Mr. Yao, finds out they’ve been letting them stay in the empty rooms for free, the Tangs will be doomed.

Number 3: She wants to be a writer. But how can she when her mom thinks she should stick to math because English is not her first language?

It will take all of Mia’s courage, kindness, and hard work to get through this year. Will she be able to hold on to her job, help the immigrants and guests, escape Mr. Yao, and go for her dreams?”

16. Listen, Slowly by Thanhhà Lai

“A California girl born and raised, Mai can’t wait to spend her vacation at the beach. Instead, though, she has to travel to Vietnam with her grandmother, who is going back to find out what really happened to her husband during the Vietnam War. Mai’s parents think this trip will be a great opportunity for their out-of-touch daughter to learn more about her culture. But to Mai, those are their roots, not her own. Vietnam is hot, smelly, and the last place she wants to be. Besides barely speaking the language, she doesn’t know the geography, the local customs, or even her distant relatives. To survive her trip, Mai must find a balance between her two completely different worlds.”

17. Martin McLean, Middle School Queen by Alyssa Zaczek

“Seventh-grader Martin McLean has always been surrounded by people who can express themselves. His mother is an artist, his colorful Tío Billy works in theater, and his best friends Carmen and Pickle are outgoing and don’t care what other people think. But Martin can only find the right words when he’s answering a problem at a Mathletes competition—until his tío introduces him to the world of drag. In a swirl of sequins and stilettos, Martin creates his fabulous drag queen alter ego, Lottie León.

As Lottie, he is braver than he’s ever been; but as Martin, he doesn’t have the guts to tell anyone outside of his family about her. Not Carmen and Pickle, not his Mathletes teammates, and definitely not Chris, an eighth-grader who gives Martin butterflies. When Martin discovers that his first-ever drag show is the same night as the most important Mathletes tournament, he realizes that he can only pull off both appearances by revealing his true self to his friends—and channeling his inner drag superstar.”

18. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

“I won’t describe what I look like. Whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse.

August Pullman was born with a facial difference that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep, he wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face. WONDER, now a #1 New York Times bestseller and included on the Texas Bluebonnet Award master list, begins from Auggie’s point of view, but soon switches to include his classmates, his sister, her boyfriend, and others. These perspectives converge in a portrait of one community’s struggle with empathy, compassion, and acceptance.”

19. See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng

“A space-obsessed boy and his dog, Carl Sagan, take a journey toward family, love, hope, and awe in this funny and moving novel for fans of Counting by 7s, Walk Two Moons, and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.

11-year-old Alex Petroski loves space and rockets, his mom, his brother, and his dog Carl Sagan—named for his hero, the real-life astronomer. All he wants is to launch his golden iPod into space the way Carl Sagan (the man, not the dog) launched his Golden Record on the Voyager spacecraft in 1977. From Colorado to New Mexico, Las Vegas to L.A., Alex records a journey on his iPod to show other lifeforms what life on earth, his earth, is like. But his destination keeps changing. And the funny, lost, remarkable people he meets along the way can only partially prepare him for the secrets he’ll uncover—from the truth about his long-dead dad to the fact that, for a kid with a troubled mom and a mostly not-around brother, he has way more family than he ever knew.

Jack Cheng’s debut is full of joy, optimism, determination, and unbelievable heart. To read the first page is to fall in love with Alex and his view of our big, beautiful, complicated world. To read the last is to know he and his story will stay with you a long, long time.”

20. Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga

“I am learning how to be sad and happy at the same time.

Jude never thought she’d be leaving her beloved older brother and father behind, all the way across the ocean in Syria. But when things in her hometown start becoming volatile, Jude and her mother are sent to live in Cincinnati with relatives.

At first, everything in America seems too fast and too loud. The American movies that Jude has always loved haven’t quite prepared her for starting school in the US—and her new label of “Middle Eastern,” an identity she’s never known before. But this life also brings unexpected surprises—there are new friends, a whole new family, and a school musical that Jude might just try out for. Maybe America, too, is a place where Jude can be seen as she really is.”

21. Melissa (Previously Published as George ) by Alex Gino

“BE WHO YOU ARE. When people look at George, they think they see a boy. But she knows she’s not a boy. She knows she’s a girl.

George thinks she’ll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announces that their class play is going to be Charlotte’s Web . George really, really, REALLY wants to play Charlotte. But the teacher says she can’t even try out for the part… because she’s a boy.

With the help of her best friend, Kelly, George comes up with a plan. Not just so she can be Charlotte—but so everyone can know who she is, once and for all.”

22. Five on a Treasure Island (The Famous Five #1) by Enid Blyton

“The very first Famous Five adventure, featuring Julian, Dick, Anne, not forgetting tomboy George and her beloved dog, Timmy! There’s a shipwreck off Kirrin Island! But where is the treasure? The Famous Five are on the trail – looking for clues – but they’re not alone! Someone else has got the same idea. Time is running out for the Famous Five, who will follow the clues and get to the treasure first?”

Fantasy Books for 6th Graders

23. gregor the overlander by suzanne collins.

“When Gregor follows his little sister through a grate in the laundry room of their New York apartment building, he hurtles into the dark Underland beneath the city. There, humans live uneasily beside giant spiders, bats, cockroaches, and rats–but the fragile peace is about to fall apart.

Gregor wants no part in this conflict, but again and again, he and his family are drawn into the Underland. Gregor must find his place in the frightening prophecies he encounters, the strength to protect his family, and the courage to defend against an army of giant rats.

In this action-packed and masterful series, Suzanne Collins unfolds the fate of the Underland and its great warrior, Gregor the Overlander.”

24. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi

“Twelve-year-old Aru Shah has a tendency to stretch the truth in order to fit in at school. While her classmates are jetting off to family vacations in exotic locales, she’ll be spending her autumn break at home, in the Museum of Ancient Indian Art and Culture, waiting for her mom to return from her latest archeological trip. Is it any wonder that Aru makes up stories about being royalty, traveling to Paris, and having a chauffeur?

One day, three schoolmates show up at Aru’s doorstep to catch her in a lie. They don’t believe her claim that the museum’s Lamp of Bharata is cursed, and they dare Aru to prove it.  Just a quick light,  Aru thinks. Then she can get herself out of this mess and  never ever  fib again.

But lighting the lamp has dire consequences. She unwittingly frees the Sleeper, an ancient demon whose duty it is to awaken the God of Destruction. Her classmates and beloved mother are frozen in time, and it’s up to Aru to save them.”

The only way to stop the demon is to find the reincarnations of the five legendary Pandava brothers, protagonists of the Hindu epic poem, the  Mahabharata , and journey through the Kingdom of Death. But how is one girl in Spider-Man pajamas supposed to do all  that ?

25. The Sword of Summer (Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard #1) by Rick Riordon

“Magnus Chase has seen his share of trouble. Ever since that terrible night two years ago when his mother told him to run, he has lived alone on the streets of Boston, surviving by his wits, staying one step ahead of the police and the truant officers.

One day, Magnus learns that someone else is trying to track him down—his uncle Randolph, a man his mother had always warned him about. When Magnus tries to outmaneuver his uncle, he falls right into his clutches. Randolph starts rambling about Norse history and Magnus’s birthright: a weapon that has been lost for thousands of years.

The more Randolph talks, the more puzzle pieces fall into place. Stories about the gods of Asgard, wolves, and Doomsday bubble up from Magnus’s memory. But he doesn’t have time to consider it all before a fire giant attacks the city, forcing him to choose between his own safety and the lives of hundreds of innocents. . . .

Sometimes, the only way to start a new life is to die.”

26. Furthermore (Furthermore #1) by Tahereh Mafi

“Alice Alexis Queensmeadow 12 rates three things most important: Mother, who wouldn’t miss her; magic and color, which seem to elude her; and Father, who always loved her. Father disappeared from Ferenwood with only a ruler, almost three years ago. But she will have to travel through the mythical, dangerous land of Furthermore, where down can be up, paper is alive, and left can be both right and very, very wrong. Her only companion is Oliver whose own magic is based in lies and deceit. Alice must first find herself—and hold fast to the magic of love in the face of loss.”

27. The Trials of Morrigan Crow (Nevermoor #1) by Jessica Townsend

“A cursed girl escapes death and finds herself in a magical world – but is then tested beyond her wildest imagination

Morrigan Crow is cursed. Having been born on Eventide, the unluckiest day for any child to be born, she’s blamed for all local misfortunes, from hailstorms to heart attacks–and, worst of all, the curse means that Morrigan is doomed to die at midnight on her eleventh birthday.

But as Morrigan awaits her fate, a strange and remarkable man named Jupiter North appears. Chased by black-smoke hounds and shadowy hunters on horseback, he whisks her away into the safety of a secret, magical city called Nevermoor.

It’s then that Morrigan discovers Jupiter has chosen her to contend for a place in the city’s most prestigious organization: the Wundrous Society. In order to join, she must compete in four difficult and dangerous trials against hundreds of other children, each boasting an extraordinary talent that sets them apart – an extraordinary talent that Morrigan insists she does not have. To stay in the safety of Nevermoor for good, Morrigan will need to find a way to pass the tests – or she’ll have to leave the city to confront her deadly fate.”

28. Sal and Gabi Break the Universe (Sal and Gabi #1) by Carlos Hernandez

“How did a raw chicken get inside Yasmany’s locker?

When Sal Vidon meets Gabi Real for the first time, it isn’t under the best of circumstances. Sal is in the principal’s office for the third time in three days, and it’s still the first week of school. Gabi, student council president and editor of the school paper, is there to support her friend Yasmany, who just picked a fight with Sal. She is determined to prove that somehow, Sal planted a raw chicken in Yasmany’s locker, even though nobody saw him do it and the bloody poultry has since mysteriously disappeared.

Sal prides himself on being an excellent magician, but for this sleight of hand, he relied on a talent no one would guess . . . except maybe Gabi, whose sharp eyes never miss a trick. When Gabi learns that he’s capable of conjuring things much bigger than a chicken–including his dead mother–and she takes it all in stride, Sal knows that she is someone he can work with. There’s only one slight problem: their manipulation of time and space could put the entire universe at risk.

A sassy entropy sweeper, a documentary about wedgies, a principal who wears a Venetian bauta mask, and heaping platefuls of Cuban food are just some of the delights that await in this mind-blowing novel gift-wrapped in love and laughter.”

29. Ghost Squad by Claribel Ortega

“ Coco meets  Stranger Things  with a hint of  Ghostbusters  in this action-packed supernatural fantasy. For Lucely Luna, ghosts are more than just the family business.

Shortly before Halloween, Lucely and her best friend, Syd, cast a spell that accidentally awakens malicious spirits, wreaking havoc throughout St. Augustine. Together, they must join forces with Syd’s witch grandmother, Babette, and her tubby tabby, Chunk, to fight the haunting head-on and reverse the curse to save the town and Lucely’s firefly spirits before it’s too late.”

30. The Dreadful Tale of Prosper Redding (Prosper Redding #1) by Alexandra Bracken

“I would say it’s a pleasure to meet thee, Prosperity Oceanus Redding, but truly, I only anticipate the delights of destroying thy happiness.

Prosper is the only unexceptional Redding in his old and storied family history — that is, until he discovers the demon living inside him. Turns out Prosper’s great-great-great-great-great-something grandfather made — and then broke — a contract with a malefactor, a demon who exchanges fortune for eternal servitude. And, weirdly enough, four-thousand-year-old Alastor isn’t exactly the forgiving type.

The fiend has reawakened with one purpose — to destroy the family whose success he ensured and who then betrayed him. With only days to break the curse and banish Alastor back to the demon realm, Prosper is playing unwilling host to the fiend, who delights in tormenting him with nasty insults and constant attempts trick him into a contract. Yeah, Prosper will take his future without a side of eternal servitude, thanks.

Little does Prosper know, the malefactor’s control over his body grows stronger with each passing night, and there’s a lot Alastor isn’t telling his dim-witted (but admittedly strong-willed) human host.”

31. City of Ghosts (Cassidy Blake #1) by Victoria Schwab

“Cassidy Blake’s parents are The Inspecters, a (somewhat inept) ghost-hunting team. But Cass herself can REALLY see ghosts. In fact, her best friend, Jacob, just happens to be one.

When The Inspecters head to ultra-haunted Edinburgh, Scotland, for their new TV show, Cass—and Jacob—come along. In Scotland, Cass is surrounded by ghosts, not all of them friendly. Then she meets Lara, a girl who can also see the dead. But Lara tells Cassidy that as an In-betweener, their job is to send ghosts permanently beyond the Veil. Cass isn’t sure about her new mission, but she does know the sinister Red Raven haunting the city doesn’t belong in her world. Cassidy’s powers will draw her into an epic fight that stretches through the worlds of the living and the dead, in order to save herself.”

32. Fablehaven (Fablehaven #1) by Brandon Mull

“For centuries mystical creatures of all description were gathered into a hidden refuge called Fablehaven to prevent their extinction. The sanctuary survives today as one of the last strongholds of true magic. Enchanting? Absolutely. Exciting? You bet. Safe? Well, actually, quite the opposite.

Kendra and her brother, Seth, have no idea that their grandfather is the current caretaker of Fablehaven. Inside the gated woods, ancient laws keep relative order among greedy trolls, mischievous satyrs, plotting witches, spiteful imps, and jealous fairies. However, when the rules get broken — Seth is a bit too curious and reckless for his own good — powerful forces of evil are unleashed, and Kendra and her brother face the greatest challenge of their lives. To save their family, Fablehaven, and perhaps even the world, Kendra and Seth must find the courage to do what they fear most.”

33. Akata Witch (Akata Witch #1) by Nnedi Okorafor

“Akata Witch transports the reader to a magical place where nothing is quite as it seems. Born in New York, but living in Aba, Nigeria, twelve-year old Sunny is understandably a little lost. She is albino and thus, incredibly sensitive to the sun. All Sunny wants to do is be able to play football and get through another day of school without being bullied. But once she befriends Orlu and Chichi, Sunny is plunged in to the world of the Leopard People, where your worst defect becomes your greatest asset. Together, Sunny, Orlu, Chichi and Sasha form the youngest ever Oha Coven. Their mission is to track down Black Hat Otokoto, the man responsible for kidnapping and maiming children. Will Sunny be able to overcome the killer with powers stronger than her own, or will the future she saw in the flames become reality?”

Find more fantasy books for 6th graders.

Classic Books for 6th Graders

34. a wrinkle in time by madeleine l’engle.

“Out of this wild night, a strange visitor comes to the Murry house and beckons Meg, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe on a most dangerous and extraordinary adventure—one that will threaten their lives and our universe.

Winner of the 1963 Newbery Medal,  A Wrinkle in Time is the first book in Madeleine L’Engle’s classic Time Quintet.”

35. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum, W.W. Denslow (Illustrator)

“When Dorothy and her little dog Toto are caught in a tornado, they and their Kansas farmhouse are suddenly transported to Oz, where Munchkins live, monkeys fly and Wicked Witches rule. Desperate to return home, and with the Wicked Witch of the West on their trail, Dorothy and Toto – together with new friends the Tin Woodsman, Scarecrow and cowardly Lion – embark on a fantastic quest along the Yellow Brick Road in search of the Emerald City. There they hope to meet the legendary, all-powerful Wizard of Oz, who alone may hold the power to grant their every wish.

Just as captivating as it was a hundred years ago, this is a story that all ages will love.”

36. Matilda by Roald Dahl, Quentin Blake (Illustrator)

“Matilda is a little girl who is far too good to be true. At age five-and-a-half she’s knocking off double-digit multiplication problems and blitz-reading Dickens. Even more remarkably, her classmates love her even though she’s a super-nerd and the teacher’s pet. But everything is not perfect in Matilda’s world. For starters she has two of the most idiotic, self-centered parents who ever lived. Then there’s the large, busty nightmare of a school principal, Miss (“The”) Trunchbull, a former hammer-throwing champion who flings children at will and is approximately as sympathetic as a bulldozer. Fortunately for Matilda, she has the inner resources to deal with such annoyances: astonishing intelligence, saintly patience, and an innate predilection for revenge.

She warms up with some practical jokes aimed at her hapless parents, but the true test comes when she rallies in defense of her teacher, the sweet Miss Honey, against the diabolical Trunchbull. There is never any doubt that Matilda will carry the day. Even so, this wonderful story is far from predictable. Roald Dahl, while keeping the plot moving imaginatively, also has an unerring ear for emotional truth. The reader cares about Matilda because in addition to all her other gifts, she has real feelings.”

37. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

“The Outsiders is about two weeks in the life of a 14-year-old boy. The novel tells the story of Ponyboy Curtis and his struggles with right and wrong in a society in which he believes that he is an outsider. According to Ponyboy, there are two kinds of people in the world: greasers and socs.

A soc (short for “social”) has money, can get away with just about anything, and has an attitude longer than a limousine. A greaser, on the other hand, always lives on the outside and needs to watch his back. Ponyboy is a greaser, and he’s always been proud of it, even willing to rumble against a gang of socs for the sake of his fellow greasers–until one terrible night when his friend Johnny kills a soc. The murder gets under Ponyboy’s skin, causing his bifurcated world to crumble and teaching him that pain feels the same whether a soc or a greaser.”

38. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

“As soon as Anne Shirley arrives at the snug white farmhouse called Green Gables, she is sure she wants to stay forever . . . but will the Cuthberts send her back to to the orphanage? Anne knows she’s not what they expected—a skinny girl with fiery red hair and a temper to match. If only she can convince them to let her stay, she’ll try very hard not to keep rushing headlong into scrapes and blurting out the first thing that comes to her mind. Anne is not like anyone else, the Cuthberts agree; she is special—a girl with an enormous imagination. This orphan girl dreams of the day when she can call herself Anne of Green Gables.”

39. The Chronicles of Narnia (The Chronicles of Narnia #1–7) by C.S. Lewis, Pauline Baynes (Illustrator)

“Journeys to the end of the world, fantastic creatures, and epic battles between good and evil—what more could any reader ask for in one book? The book that has it all is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe , written in 1949 by Clive Staples Lewis. But Lewis did not stop there. Six more books followed, and together they became known as  The Chronicles of Narnia.

For the past fifty years,  The Chronicles of Narnia  have transcended the fantasy genre to become part of the canon of classic literature. Each of the seven books is a masterpiece, drawing the reader into a land where magic meets reality, and the result is a fictional world whose scope has fascinated generations.

This edition presents all seven books—unabridged—in one impressive volume. The books are presented here in chronological order, each chapter graced with an illustration by the original artist, Pauline Baynes. Deceptively simple and direct, The Chronicles of Narnia continue to captivate fans with adventures, characters, and truths that speak to readers of all ages, even fifty years after they were first published.”

40. Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie, Michael Hague (Illustrator)

“Peter Pan by J. M. Barrie Peter Pan, the mischievous boy who refuses to grow up, lands in the Darling’s proper middle-class home to look for his shadow. He befriends Wendy, John and Michael and teaches them to fly (with a little help from fairy dust). He and Tinker Bell whisk them off to Never-land where they encounter the Red Indians, the Little Lost Boys, pirates and the dastardly Captain Hook.”

41. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, Garth Williams (Illustrator), Rosemary Wells (Illustrator)

“This beloved book by E. B. White, author of Stuart Little and The Trumpet of the Swan, is a classic of children’s literature that is “just about perfect.” This high-quality paperback features vibrant illustrations colorized by Rosemary Wells!

Some Pig. Humble. Radiant. These are the words in Charlotte’s Web, high up in Zuckerman’s barn. Charlotte’s spiderweb tells of her feelings for a little pig named Wilbur, who simply wants a friend. They also express the love of a girl named Fern, who saved Wilbur’s life when he was born the runt of his litter.

E. B. White’s Newbery Honor Book is a tender novel of friendship, love, life, and death that will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come. This edition contains newly color illustrations by Garth Williams, the acclaimed illustrator of E. B. White’s Stuart Little and Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House series, among many other books.”

42. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

“After a tumble down the rabbit hole, Alice finds herself far away from home in the absurd world of Wonderland. As mind-bending as it is delightful, Lewis Carroll’s 1865 novel is pure magic for young and old alike.”

43. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Richard Howard (Translator), Ivan Minatti (Translator), Nguyễn Thành Vũ (Illustrator)

“Moral allegory and spiritual autobiography, The Little Prince is the most translated book in the French language. With a timeless charm it tells the story of a little boy who leaves the safety of his own tiny planet to travel the universe, learning the vagaries of adult behaviour through a series of extraordinary encounters. His personal odyssey culminates in a voyage to Earth and further adventures.”

44. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

“Generations of readers young and old, male and female, have fallen in love with the March sisters of Louisa May Alcott’s most popular and enduring novel, Little Women . Here are talented tomboy and author-to-be Jo, tragically frail Beth, beautiful Meg, and romantic, spoiled Amy, united in their devotion to each other and their struggles to survive in New England during the Civil War.

It is no secret that Alcott based  Little Women  on her own early life. While her father, the freethinking reformer and abolitionist Bronson Alcott, hobnobbed with such eminent male authors as Emerson, Thoreau, and Hawthorne, Louisa supported herself and her sisters with “woman’s work,” including sewing, doing laundry, and acting as a domestic servant. But she soon discovered she could make more money writing.  Little Women brought her lasting fame and fortune, and far from being the “girl’s book” her publisher requested, it explores such timeless themes as love and death, war and peace, the conflict between personal ambition and family responsibilities, and the clash of cultures between Europe and America.”

Find free books online and check out Project Gutenberg   and Read Print for classics.

 Poetry And Short Stories For 6th Graders

45. out of wonder  by kwame alexander.

“Out of gratitude for the poet’s art form, Newbery Award–winning author and poet Kwame Alexander, along with Chris Colderley and Marjory Wentworth, present original poems that pay homage to twenty famed poets who have made the authors’ hearts sing and their minds wonder. Stunning mixed-media images by Ekua Holmes, winner of a Caldecott Honor and a John Steptoe New Talent Illustrator Award, complete the celebration and invite the reader to listen, wonder, and perhaps even pick up a pen.”

46.  One Last Word: Wisdom from the Harlem Renaissance  by Nikki Grimes

“In this collection of poetry, Nikki Grimes looks afresh at the poets of the Harlem Renaissance — including voices like Langston Hughes, Georgia Douglas Johnson, and many more writers of importance and resonance from this era — by combining their work with her own original poetry. Using “The Golden Shovel” poetic method, Grimes has written a collection of poetry that is as gorgeous as it is thought-provoking. This special book also includes original artwork in full-color from some of today’s most exciting African American illustrators, who have created pieces of art based on Nikki’s original poems. Featuring art by: Cozbi Cabrera, R. Gregory Christie, Pat Cummings, Jan Spivey Gilchrist, Ebony Glenn, Nikki Grimes, E. B. Lewis, Frank Morrison, Christopher Myers, Brian Pinkney, Sean Qualls, James Ransome, Javaka Steptoe, Shadra Strickland, and Elizabeth Zunon.”

47. Voices in the Air: Poems for Listeners by Naomi Shihab Nye

“Acclaimed and award-winning poet, teacher, and National Book Award finalist Naomi Shihab Nye’s uncommon and unforgettable voice offers readers peace, humor, inspiration, and solace. This volume of almost one hundred original poems is a stunning and engaging tribute to the diverse voices past and present that comfort us, compel us, lead us, and give us hope.

Voices in the Air  is a collection of almost one hundred original poems written by the award-winning poet Naomi Shihab Nye in honor of the artists, writers, poets, historical figures, ordinary people, and diverse luminaries from past and present who have inspired her. Full of words of encouragement, solace, and hope, this collection offers a message of peace and empathy.

Voices in the Air  celebrates the inspirational people who strengthen and motivate us to create, to open our hearts, and to live rewarding and graceful lives. With short informational bios about the influential figures behind each poem, and a transcendent introduction by the poet, this is a collection to cherish, read again and again, and share with others.  Includes an index.”

48. Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds

“This story was going to begin like all the best stories. With a school bus falling from the sky. But no one saw it happen. They were all too busy—

Talking about boogers. Stealing pocket change. Skateboarding. Wiping out. Braving up. Executing complicated handshakes. Planning an escape. Making jokes. Lotioning up. Finding comfort. But mostly, too busy walking home.

Jason Reynolds conjures ten tales (one per block) about what happens after the dismissal bell rings, and brilliantly weaves them into one wickedly funny, piercingly poignant look at the detours we face on the walk home, and in life.”

49. Flying Lessons & Other Stories by Ellen Oh (Editor)

“Whether it is basketball dreams, family fiascos, first crushes, or new neighborhoods, this bold anthology—written by the best children’s authors—celebrates the uniqueness and universality in all of us.

In a partnership with We Need Diverse Books, industry giants Kwame Alexander, Soman Chainani, Matt de la Peña, Tim Federle, Grace Lin, Meg Medina, Walter Dean Myers, Tim Tingle, and Jacqueline Woodson join newcomer Kelly J. Baptist in a story collection that is as humorous as it is heartfelt. This impressive group of authors has earned among them every major award in children’s publishing and popularity as New York Times bestsellers.

From these distinguished authors come ten distinct and vibrant stories.”

50. Us, in Progress: Short Stories About Young Latinos by Lulu Delacre

“Acclaimed author and Pura Belpré Award honoree Lulu Delacre’s beautifully illustrated collection of twelve short stories is a groundbreaking look at the diverse Latinos who live in the United States.

In this book, you will meet many young Latinos living in the United States, from a young girl whose day at her father’s burrito truck surprises her to two sisters working together to change the older sister’s immigration status, and more.

Turn the pages to experience life through the eyes of these boys and girls whose families originally hail from many different countries; see their hardships, celebrate their victories, and come away with a better understanding of what it means to be Latino in the U.S. today.”

To find more great, diverse books for 6th graders, check out our middle grade books collection.

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Dive into the most recommended books for 6th graders, as curated from top educational and children's literature blogs. these titles have made multiple appearances on lists for their engaging content suitable for young readers..

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Home » Reading lists for Elementary School children » 6th grade reading books for children aged 11-12

6th grade reading books for children aged 11-12

Books for grade 6 – this list of suggested reading books for grade 6 students includes a range of exciting and thought-provoking books to suit all abilities, including easy readers, gripping series and more difficult texts for children aged 11-12. This list of 6th grade reading recommendations contains titles by Sharon Creech, Anna Sewell, Louis Sachar, Jacqueline Woodson, Anna Sewell, Shannon Hale and Jason Reynolds.

Books for Grade 6 – our recommendations

Jennifer chan is not alone by tae keller.

When Jennifer runs away, her friends wonder why. Was it because she believes in aliens, or was it something her friend Mallory said? Mallory digs in deeper and reads Jennifer’s private journals in this compelling mystery of friendship, bullying, alienation, middle school life and not always fitting in.

The Doorman’s Repose by Chris Raschka

Each of the 10 short stories in this exceptional collection offers a glimpse into the different lives of those who live in a New York apartment building. From the baseball fan doorman to the secrets heard by an elevator; and the unseen mice within the walls to a resident opera singer. The experiences, feelings and thoughts are cleverly illustrated in this memorable book. Highly recommended.

The Door of No Return by Kwame Alexander

11-year-old Kofi finds himself fighting for survival across land and sea, many miles from his home in Ghana. Kwame Alexander’s gritty verse story of slavery conveys the power of family, determination and traditional wisdom. Highly emotive ad accessible, The Door of No Return is perfect for book group discussion. This outstanding work is a “Roots” for Gen Alpha.

The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera

Petra’s dreams of being a storyteller are seemingly dashed when a comet threatens to wipe out life on Earth. But Petra and her family are some of the chosen few to travel to a new life and new planet. But when she wakes up, Petra finds she is the only person who can remember humanity. Will she be able to cope with this huge responsibility? This thought-provoking and award-winning middle-grade novel is highly recommended.

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

Sixth-grader Miranda is living an ordinary life until odd things begin to happen. Her friend is attacked, a key goes missing and then the messages start to arrive. Who are they from and how can they predict her future? Will she find out before it’s too late? A thrilling novel.

Small Spaces by Katherine Arden

A classic spooky ghost story that will appeal to middle-grade readers. 11-year-old Ollie loves reading and uses books as an escape from the real world. Finding a ghost story, she is hooked. However, on a school outing, the story she’s reading turns into reality and a nightmare begins.

Mystery | Horror

The Call Of The Wild by Jack London

An epic American story of dreams and adversity. Set in the turn of the century gold rush, Buck’s world changes when he’s wrenched from his life as a house dog in California and find himself fending for himself as part of a brutal sled pack in harsh Alaska.

Holes by Louis Sachar

A captivating novel about teen Stanley Yelnets who is sent to Camp Green Lake for a crime he didn’t commit. Generations of seemingly unconnected family histories are woven into a stunning plot set in a barren desert which certainly isn’t summer camp. A great story of redemption and a must-read for 6th graders.

Mystery | Middle grade novel

Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech

The powerful story of Salamanca Tree Hiddle, who invents outlandish stories for her grandparents on a long road trip. She invents Phoebe, a girls whose mother disappeared in strange circumstances and who she longs for – just as Salamanca longs for her mother. Cleverly woven stories and an unforgettable, bittersweet ending.

Family | Middle grade novel

Black Beauty by Anna Sewell

A horse enjoys an idyllic existence in the countryside until he is unexpectedly sold into a completely different world of hardship in the city. A moving account from the horse’s point of view, this book inspired campaigns for improved animal welfare. A timeless classic for 6th grade class libraries.

Classic | Animal story

Space Case by Stuart Gibbs

In this gripping mystery sci-fi adventure, Dash thinks the lunar base commander has been murdered. No one believes him until he discovers a shocking secret that changes everything.

Science fiction

My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George

Sam hates his life in urban New York and decides to run away from the cramped apartment where his family lives. He heads for the mountains and an unforgettable story of challenge, self-reliance and resilience. A compelling read for grade 6 students.

Adventure | Classic

Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper

6th grader Melody is wheelchair-bound and unable to speak due to her cerebral palsy. But she has a secret – she’s the smartest kid in the school – by a mile – if only she could find a way to let the world know. When she does, her world changes completely. Moving and life-affirming, this book is ideal to use to discuss disability and inclusion.

Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume

Davey has been uprooted to live with family in Los Alamos, New Mexico after the death of her father in a shooting. Confused and angry, she meets the mysterious Wolf, possibly the only person in the world who can understand her. Haunting and moving this is a powerful story about loss and moving on.

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodson Burnett

Classic children’s fiction set in Yorkshire, England. Mary Lennox is sent to live in a strange house on the moors with her uncle. In the grounds, there is an overgrown garden surrounded by high walls. Once she finds her way in Mary is determined to bring the garden back to life in this enchanting story.

The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper

A spell-binding trilogy of books of which this is the first. Will Stanton is no ordinary 11-year-old. He is the last of an old order, one of the ‘Old Ones’ – with magical powers that mean he can live forever to fight dark forces. Can he find the six signs and stops evil taking over the world?

Princess Academy by Shannon Hale

The first book in this award-winning series about Miri, whose school is an academy set up by the king, and every girl who attends learns how to be a princess. At the end of the year there is a competition which every girl wants to win, since the winner becomes a princess.

School story

Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell

A gripping historical novel telling the story of Karana, an Indian girl who has to fight for her own existence against wild dogs, hunters, and a shortage of food on the remote island which is her home.

The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden

Chester the Cricket follows enticing smells from a picnic and is transported to the big city in a basket. There, he meets Tucker, a mouse, who guides him through adventure and scrapes with danger. Great fun and ideal for 6th grade reluctant readers.

Animal story

I Hadn’t Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson

A startling and edgy early teen novel about two girls from very different backgrounds who form a strong, but unlikely friendship at school. For more advanced readers, this book explores social tension, dark secrets, and role reversal.

School story | Middle grade novel

Escape from Mr Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein

When a world-famous game designer remodels the town library, Kyle is keen to be there. But the opening isn’t an event to get into, but a mystery adventure where the prize is to solve puzzles and find the secret way out once the doors have been locked. Award-winning, funny and highly imaginative, this book is ideal for reluctant readers in the sixth grade.

Humor | Mystery

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson

A gripping historical novel set during the American Revolution. When Isobel and her sister Ruth’s owner dies, and with it a promise for freedom, Isobel realizes their best hope now lies in a dangerous world of spying. A more challenging read for 6th-grade students.

Diverse | Historical

Midnight Without a Moon by Linda Williams Jackson

Rose Lee Carter’s heart is set on moving away from segregation in 1950s Mississippi, but a local court case changes her mind and she vows to stay and help the movement for change. Ideal for social studies topics – this book will appeal to grade 6 book clubs.

Historical | Diverse

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

This award-winning book of poetry explores life growing up during the 1960s and 1970s civil rights movement as an African American child. Moving and written in a way that will resonate with and appeal to children and younger teens.

Ghost by Jason Reynolds

Castle Crenshaw is always running away from his problems – whether it’s from his difficult home life, bullies, or danger. That’s until he meets Coach, an ex-track star who inspires him to use his talents in new and positive ways. It’s an uplifting and transformational story that’s ideal for grade 6 children.

Divserse | Middle-grade novel

Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova

Penelope Peppi Torres is convinced she will only survive middle school by following the unwritten rules of social acceptance. But when she breaks them almost immediately she finds herself branded a nerd. Slowly, she realises rules are there to be broken and she learns to be herself. Funny, yet true to life, this graphic novel will appeal to reluctant readers.

Graphic novel

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D Taylor

A modern classic, this story follows the determined and resilient Logan family surviving in the South during the depression era, through the eyes of nine-year-old Cassie.

Historical | Classic

To Catch a Cheat by Varian Johnson

Jackson Green finds himself caught up in a scam and the only way out is to pull off his biggest heist yet – to steal a school exam and hand it over to a gang of blackmailers. This fast-paced coming of age adventure book is ideal for students in grade 6.

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

A multi-award-winning book about ‘Bod’, a boy raised by ghosts who lives in a graveyard. He wants to visit the real world, but if he does, danger lurks in the form of Jack – who killed Bod’s family. A masterpiece of storytelling, this fantasy horror will grip younger readers.

Fantasy | Horror

The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies

When a brother and sister set up competing lemonade stands, neither would have predicted the war which results. Evan possesses savvy and entrepreneurship, whereas his sister Jessie is a math genius. This book is ideal for reluctant readers in grade 6, and also useful for discussions about sibling rivalries and problem-solving.

Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk

Annabelle’s comfortable safe life changes when Betty joins her middle grade class. Betty’s bullying and manipulation turns everything upside down and only Annabelle’s relentless kindness and courage can put things right. This novel is deal for Grade 6 book clubs.

The Secret of the Fortune Wookiee by Tom Angleberger

This is the third story in the Origami Yoda series, which is ideal for reluctant readers. The pupils in McQuarrie Middle School receive help from a strange source in the form of Chewbacca, a Fortune Wookiee origami who offers invaluable ideas and advice for all their romantic problems. A fun chapter book for 6th-grade students.

School story | Humor

The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare

An incredible story of survival, adventure and social acceptance. When young teen Matt is left in charge of a remote cabin, things go wrong fast. Matt quickly realises the only way to survive will be to break with his bigoted upbringing and befriend a Native American boy, Attean.

The 50 States by Gabrielle Balkan

A stunning oversized hardback book packed with colorfully illustrated pages crammed with exciting and unusual facts about each of the 50 states. Perfect for reluctant readers who prefer fact books to fiction chapter books.

Non fiction

Beetle Boy by MG Leonard

A fast-paced and crazy plot that is perfect for 6th grade fans of Roald Dahl. When Darkus Cuttle’s dad goes missing he’s sent to live with his uncle and moves to a horrible new school. However, his life changes when he meets Baxter, a beetle with superpowers. An easier reader for 6th graders.

Mystery | Fantasy

Merriam-Webster’s Intermediate Dictionary

Written specifically for students in grades 6-8, this dictionary includes nearly 70,000 words and includes up-to-date STEM, popular culture and social media vocabulary. Including thousands of illustrations, etymology and synonyms, it’s the ideal middle school dictionary.

Click the buttons below to purchase all of the books in this 6th grade book list, as well as classroom sets of any of these books and many more, from Bookshop.org. Or buy the 20 most popular titles from this list from Amazon – ideal for gifts or stocking your school library. If you are ordering from outside the US, have a look at our ‘worldwide orders’ page which makes this process easy.

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• Books for grade K kindergarten children aged 5-6

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The Best 6th Grade Books: A Booklist for Teachers & Homeschoolers

When it comes to picking the best books for your 6th graders, you might feel overwhelmed. It can be challenging to figure out where to start finding books that sixth-grade students will find engaging and meaningful while still covering all the standards you want to teach. That’s where this list of 6th grade books will come in handy!

These books for 6th graders are perfect for any teacher (or even parents) looking to make sure their students are reading engaging and meaningful texts. These books cover various genres, themes, and topics to appeal to every reader.

Here is my Ultimate List of Books for 6th Graders.

The 30 Books Every 6th Grader Should Read

Like the reading lists I’ve created for 5th graders , this list is shared in no particular order. For each book, I’ve tried to share a brief overview of these 6th grade books and some resources you can use to teach the text as a novel study or in book clubs.

1) The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe  by C. S. Lewis

If you’re looking for classic 6th grade books, this is one of my favorites. Published in 1950, this children’s fantasy novel has become a classic and is now an equally famous film. It tells the story of four English children during World War II who move to the country and discover a wardrobe that leads them to another world — Narnia — ruled by a cruel White Witch!

Like a fairy tale for middle schoolers, this book has many engaging characters and fantastic themes sure to spark conversations in your classroom.

Get the Novel Unit: The Lion, The Witch & the Wardrobe Novel Unit

2) A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle

In this book, Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe are introduced to strange happenings by the reclusive Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which. The trio joins them on an unexpected journey through time and space where they must tangle with IT — the brain of a dark force!

Your sixth graders will love the fun dynamics of the characters and the suspense as they travel through galaxies to save Charles Wallace. A Wrinkle in Time also features great themes such as friendship, courage, and individuality.

Get the Novel Unit: A Wrinkle in Time Novel Unit

3) When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

This book tells the story of a sixth-grade girl named Miranda who receives messages from an unknown source. The book leads the reader through some unexpected twists and turns as Miranda navigates her way through middle school and life while uncovering more about the mysterious messages she is getting.

I purposefully put this book after A Wrinkle in Time , as the story makes many connections to the classic text. However, there are so many reasons this book is perfect for your classroom and offers a number of opportunities to discuss aspects of the author’s craft, including foreshadowing and suspense.

If you’re looking for 6th grade books that will keep your readers on their toes, this is a great choice. After students finish reading, they’ll likely want to go back and connect all the dots. I’ve even had a few students re-read the entire book after they finished!

Get the Novel Unit: When You Reach Me Novel Study

4) The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

The Lightning Thief tells the story of twelve-year-old Percy Jackson, who discovers he is a demi-god after his mother realizes she cannot control him. Soon, he is whisked away to Camp Half-Blood, where he learns about his divine father and his many trials while also taking on the dangerous quest of retrieving Zeus’ stolen lightning bolt.

With great characters and action scenes, this book is sure to be loved by your 6th graders and is an excellent connection to Greek Mythology.

Get the Novel Unit: The Lightning Thief Novel Study

5) The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

This is one of the greatest books for 6th graders, in my opinion. It’s set during WWII when Ada, a young girl born with a club foot, is sent away from London to escape Hitler’s bombs.

Alone but determined, she makes her way to the country where she meets Susan Smith — someone who teaches her that nothing is impossible for those willing to work hard enough to achieve their goals!

Get the Novel Unit: The War that Saved My Life Literature Unit

6) A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett

One of several books written by this author,  A Little Princess  tells the story of a young girl whose father went off to fight in India years earlier, leaving her with nothing but a hope that he would return one day. 

However, when he finally does arrive, the girl is forced to work as a maid and endure horrible conditions. Her life takes another turn when she discovers a secret about her father’s fortune — yet she remains kind and generous! 

In my opinion, this book is the best place to begin as it is full of compelling characters and themes, including kindness, hope, endurance, and determination.

Get the Novel Unit: A Little Princess Novel Study

7) Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

Published in 2000, this book tells the story of Leo Borlock, who is about to attend middle school for the first time. One day he sees a new student with blue hair and strange clothes — Stargirl. He’s fascinated by her lack of conformity, and soon, they become friends.

However, when their classmates ostracize her because of her differences in behavior, Leo becomes her champion.

This book is so beautifully written and tells an important story about kindness, uniqueness, and friendship in the face of bullying. It would be a great addition to any classroom library!

Get the Novel Unit: Stargirl Novel Study Unit

8) The 6th Grade Nickname Game by Gordon Korman

This book tells the story of middle-schooler Matthew Hollis as he navigates his life as a sixth-grader.

During this time, he plans to create nicknames for everyone in his class — including himself. However, things quickly go downhill when he realizes that the name will not help him or his classmates get along!

Perfect for 6th graders, this book will teach them the importance of self-reflection and empathy. It also helps students to see how stereotypes can affect relationships with others.

Get the Novel Unit: The Sixth Grade Nickname Game Novel Study

9) The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by Frank L. Baum

Another classic on this list of 6th grade books, by this point in their education most students are familiar with The Wizard of Oz. However, most haven’t read the actual book!

One of the oldest books on this list is The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, written in 1900. It has since been turned into a popular film, and television series as Dorothy and her dog Toto make their way to visit mysterious and powerful people — including the Wicked Witch, Glinda the Good Witch, and the Cowardly Lion!

They meet many interesting characters who help or hinder them along their way on their journey.

As old as it is, this book is a must-read not only because it’s exciting; I find it particularly helpful in comprehension and discussion. With the wide availability of the movie, you can also use this title to compare across different media. The book is much different than the movie!

Get the Novel Unit: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Novel Unit

10) The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi

Avi’s tale about a young girl who has been raised only to know a lady’s life begins with her finding herself aboard a ship that is headed towards America.

Naturally, she’s nervous — especially when we realize how easily some people on board take advantage of her! Isolated and afraid, Charlotte is unsure who she can trust. As a result, she must learn to depend on herself and trust her instincts to save an innocent man and safely finish the voyage.

Get the Novel Unit: The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle Novel Study

11) Blood on the River by Elisa Carbone

Set in the colonial era, this book is based on the true story of the Jamestown colony. Centered around the story of an orphaned young man named Samuel, the reader is exposed to the harsh realities of transatlantic travel during the period. When he is taken on as an apprentice for John Smith, his luck changes and he begins to learn what it takes to survive, and thrive, in the New World.

This book has great historical content and would be perfect for any 6th grader interested in books set during this time period.

Get the Novel Unit: Blood on the River Novel Unit

12) The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Now a popular movie, The Hunger Games takes place in a future society that has risen out of the destruction.

Told through the perspective of Katniss Everdeen, it centers around an annual televised event in which two “tributes” are chosen from each district to fight in a battle that only one person can survive.

Great for 6th graders, this book offers the perfect opportunity to discuss themes including injustice, freedom, sacrifice, and survival.

Get the Novel Unit: The Hunger Games Novel Study

13) Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

Another example of historical fiction is engaging and relevant to current events, Fever 1793 tells the story of a teenage girl, Mattie Cook, as she works to help her family’s coffeehouse grow and thrive.

In the midst of this, however, Philadelphia is struck with a terrible fever that is destroying thousands of lives and spreading rapidly, including Mattie’s childhood friend.

Although it’s a work of fiction, Fever 1793 has been hailed as a realistic depiction of life in America during this time. Therefore, it is an excellent book for 6th grade students to read and compare the impacts of Covid to that of yellow fever.

Get the Novel Unit: Fever 1793 Novel Study

14) War Horse by Micheal Morpurgo

Historical fiction is a great genre of books for 6th graders to read because many are studying world or US History at this point. This is a World War I novel told from the perspective of Joey, a horse.

After being sold to the British cavalry by his previous owner, Joey spends time in different homes until he ends up serving in various battles with the men he has come to know as a friend.

The unique point of view is a great chance to explore how narration impacts the reader’s understanding.

Get the Novel Unit : War Horse Novel Guide

15) The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau

Another science fiction book, this dystopian novel for 6th graders is the first book in the Book of Ember series,  The City of Ember  is the story of a young girl named Lina who happens upon the secret of an underground city that is in danger of being destroyed.

Although it has been around since 2003, this book has become quite popular with educators as an engaging dystopia title. I would definitely recommend this for anyone looking to use authentic literature with 6th graders.

Get the Novel Unit: The City of Ember Literature Unit

16) Refugee by Alan Gratz

Refugee  is a newer novel, but it is a powerful story that lends itself to many excellent conversations in the classroom. Written by Alan Gratz, the story is unique in that it weaves together three different periods and three stories – all with a shared theme.

While fictional, the harrowing tales of Mahmoud, Isabel, and Josef explore the trials and tribulations many refugees face. Although this book is difficult to read in many ways, it offers unique opportunities to make connections to the lived experiences of refugees today.

Get the Novel Unit: Refugee Book Study

17) Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko

In  Al Capone Does My Shirts , Moose Flanagan is an average sixth grader living in Alcatraz.

However, as his parents increasingly become involved in the national debate over prison reform, he finds himself moving from home and attending school there – on the island!

As a result of this sudden change in his lifestyle, Moose must learn how to get by while also trying to make friends and fit in.

Get the Novel Unit: Al Capone Does My Shirts Novel Study

18) The Bicycle Spy by Yona Zeldis McDonough

Another excellent historical fiction text set during World War II, The Bicycle Spy is the story of a young man with dreams of competing in the Tour de France.

Throughout the story, he becomes more aware of the impacts of the Nazi invasion and realizes he can no longer sit on the sidelines. After learning his family is in danger, he must take on a mission to use his cycling skills to save a friend.

Get the Novel Unit: The Bicycle Spy Novel Study

19) One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

One of several amazing books by Rita Williams-Garcia,  One Crazy Summer  is the story of a young girl in the late 1960s who is sent to spend the summer with her mother.

However, when they embark on the trip by themselves, they end up at a training session for black revolutionaries that will change their lives forever.

Get the Novel Unit: One Crazy Summer Novel Study

20) The Giver by Lois Lowry

While this is not the first time I’ve recommended  The Giver , this book has a lot to offer sixth graders that will likely go over the heads of younger readers. In this story, a young boy discovers that his seemingly perfect society hides some dark secrets.

In this gripping tale, the main character must decide whether he is willing to fight for change or accept what has been taught to him throughout his life.

Get the Novel Unit: The Giver Novel Unit 21) Rules by Cynthia Lord

Cynthia Lord’s book  Rules  is another excellent option for sixth-grade book clubs or novel units. The story centers on twelve-year-old Catherine and the difficulties she faces trying to navigate her relationship with her brother diagnosed with autism.

Because of the nature of his condition, he struggles with social cues and boundaries – often in unexpected ways that can be humorous or frustrating for those around him. To help him, Catherine creates a book of rules for interacting. 

However, as the story goes on, Catherine realizes that she can’t just rely on a set of books rules to keep her brother safe.

Get the Novel Unit: Rules Novel Unit

22) Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

For some reason, graphic novels and comics are still relatively unpopular reading materials for school groups – something which I hope will change soon!

In this story, the main character, Astrid, struggles with whether she wants to embrace her newfound love of Roller Derby or if she should continue focusing on her traditional, age-old artistic passion.

Buy the Book: Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

23) My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George

My Side of the Mountain  is a great novel choice for students interested in nature, but it is also great for conversations about the struggle for independence that many middle school students feel.

In this story, young Sam Gribley leaves his home and family after being forced to take on more responsibilities than he feels ready for. As a result, he embarks on a journey to build a new life for himself deep in the forest.

Over time, he learns how to make shelter, hunt for food, and create a sustainable lifestyle that allows him to retain his independence without feeling completely alone.

Get the Novel Unit: My Side of the Mountain Novel Unit

24) The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart

While a relatively new release, this book has already won a handful of awards..and rightfully so. Coyote has been through some pretty tough situations that no kid should have to deal with. Still, when she learns that a beloved park in her neighborhood is set to be demolished, she devises a plan to get back home and retrieve the memory box her mom and sisters buried there years ago.

With a cast of unique characters and an engaging plot, your students will love this story.

Get the Novel Unit: The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise Book Unit

25) Clayton Byrd Goes Underground by Rita Williams-Garcia

Another book by Rita Williams-Garcia,  Clayton Byrd Goes Underground  is the tale of how a young boy learns to come to terms with his grandfather’s death. After running away, Clayton faces a number of challenges when he loses his most prized possession – a harmonica given to him by his grandfather.

As he works to come to grips with his losses, he realizes that running away won’t solve his problems.

Get the Novel Unit: Clayton Byrd Goes Underground Novel Study

26) Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan

Pam Munoz Ryan’s books are classics for a good reason. In this book, Esperanza moves to America after her father is killed. She tries her best to adjust to the new lifestyle that she has been thrust into – but the added pressures of oppressive laws and poverty make it harder than she might have imagined.

Esperanza jumps at the opportunity to earn money by working on a ranch but soon discovers that it is no easy job.

Get the Print or Digital Novel Unit: Esperanza Rising Novel Study

27) Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

The story of The Holocaust is a difficult one to teach students about at any age. Still, books that feature young characters can be especially effective because they allow for a more personal connection to these books.

In this book, ten-year-old Annemarie learns about the Nazi occupation from her friend Ellen – who has Jewish roots.

The pair embarks on a dangerous journey that allows them the opportunity to save Ellen’s family.

Get the Novel Unit: Number the Stars Novel Study

28) Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen

This book, the story of a young offender in juvenile detention who is sentenced to isolation on an island off Alaska as part of a new system to address behavior, is another excellent choice for conversations about independence.

Although he initially hates the idea of being so far away from home, through his trials and tribulations he begins to find that being alone is a good thing – and he also learns the importance of connection.

Buy the Book: Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen

29) Stella by Starlight by Sharon Draper

Set in the segregated South, Stella by Starlight is the story of a young girl dealing with racial tensions and the impending violence surrounding the civil rights movement.

Stella is harassed at school, and she is unsure of how to speak up or defend herself – but soon learns that she has to stand up for what she believes in if she ever wants to feel safe again.

Buy the Book: Stella by Starlight by Sharon Draper

30) So B. It by Sarah Weeks

This coming-of-age story features Heidi, a 12-year-old girl, as she grapples with the challenges of understanding who she is. Her mother’s cognitive disability prevents her from saying much, which means Heidi only has a few things to go on. One of them is the meaning of the made-up word her mother keeps saying, “soof.”

Working to understand who she is and where she comes from, Heidi begins piecing together the story of her upbringing.

Get the Novel Unit: So B. It Novel Study

You’ve seen the 6th grade books- Are you ready to plan your novel unit?

I hope this list has sparked ideas for the best books for 6th grade to add to your classroom library and your next novel unit.

While you’re here, grab my free novel study planning roadmap to get step-by-step support to plan a high-quality literature unit for your sixth-grade students whether you’re in the classroom or homeschooling. Whether planning your first novel study or looking for new ideas, you’ll love this great tool.

Check out my Reading Lists for Other Grades Below

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Discussion-Worthy Book Club Books for 6th Grade

This post may contain affiliate links.

What are good middle grade books for a 6th-grade book club? (Ages 11 and 12.)

First, consider your purpose.

Is it to get kids to read more?

To communicate better?

To learn how to form opinions using text to support?

To discuss a social issue?

That will help you find the right books.

It’s really, really, really essential that kids get a choice about what middle grade book to read.

Maybe you book talk 4 books and let them choose their favorite.

Maybe you ask them to research a group of books and pick that way.

Just let them have ownership and choice.

So, as you look for books, consider what topics, themes, or genres suit your purpose for the book club.

Use the list below to find books.

Or search by theme and topic . You’ll find book lists like:

• Mental Illness
• Survival Stories
• Foster Care
• Muslim Characters

Also, there is a search bar at the top of every page.

Here are some book ideas to get you started picking a good book for your 6th-grade book club.

PRINTABLE LIST

Book Club Book Ideas for 6th Grade

Realistic book club book ideas.

Adventure Books

Historical Fiction Book Club Book Ideas

Mystery Book Club Books

Sci-Fi Book Club Books

Fantasy Book Club Books

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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A Road Map to a Perfect 6th Grade Book Report

Introduction

Welcome to The Knowledge Nest, your go-to resource for educational materials and guidance. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to write a perfect 6th grade book report. By following our step-by-step approach, you'll be able to excel in your book reports, gain valuable insights into the world of literature, and impress your teachers!

Why Are Book Reports Important?

Book reports play a crucial role in a student's academic journey. They not only help you develop your reading and writing skills, but also allow you to analyze, interpret, and critique various literary works. Book reports provide an opportunity to delve deeper into the themes, characters, and messages conveyed by the author. They encourage critical thinking, enhance vocabulary, and foster a love for reading.

Choosing the Right Book

Before starting your book report, it's essential to choose a book that interests you and aligns with your grade level. Look for books that challenge you intellectually, have engaging plots, and evoke emotions. Books with diverse perspectives and themes are particularly beneficial for broadening your understanding of the world. Consider seeking recommendations from teachers, librarians, or your peers to ensure you select an appropriate book.

Understanding the Book

Prior to writing your book report, take the time to thoroughly understand the book. Read it attentively, making note of important plot points, character development, and significant events. Consider the author's writing style, the book's genre, and any underlying themes or symbolism. By actively engaging with the text, you'll be able to provide a more insightful analysis in your report.

Structuring Your Book Report

An effective book report has a well-organized structure that allows the reader to follow your thoughts coherently. Begin your report with an engaging introduction that captures the reader's attention and provides a brief overview of the book. In the body paragraphs, delve into the plot, characters, themes, and your personal reflections. Use specific examples and quotes from the book to support your analysis. Finally, end your report with a conclusion that summarizes your key points and offers your overall assessment of the book.

Writing Tips

To make your book report stand out, consider the following writing tips:

• Be concise and clear: Use simple language and avoid excessive jargon. Ensure your ideas are expressed in a straightforward manner.
• Use proper grammar and punctuation: Proofread your report to eliminate any grammatical errors and ensure proper punctuation usage.
• Include relevant details: Provide specific examples from the book to support your analysis and demonstrate your understanding of the material.
• Express your personal opinion: While maintaining objectivity, share your thoughts, feelings, and interpretations of the book. This adds a unique touch to your report.
• Revise and edit: After completing your initial draft, carefully review your report for improvements. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity, coherence, and overall effectiveness.

Writing a perfect 6th grade book report is both a challenging and rewarding task. By following the guidelines provided by The Knowledge Nest, you'll be equipped with essential tools and insights to excel in your book reports. Remember to choose a book that captivates your interest, thoroughly understand the material, and structure your report thoughtfully. With practice and dedication, you'll soon become a master at crafting exceptional book reports!

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42 Creative Book Report Ideas for Students

Inspire your students to share their love of books.

Responding to what you read is an important literacy skill. Reading about other people’s experiences and perspectives helps kids learn about the world. And although students don’t need to dive deeply into every single book they read, occasionally digging into characters, settings, and themes can help them learn to look beyond the prose. Here are 42 creative book report ideas designed to make reading more meaningful for kids.

1. Concrete Found Poem

This clever activity is basically a shape poem made up of words, phrases, and whole sentences found in the books students read. The words come together to create an image that represents something from the story.

2. Graphic Novel

Have students rewrite the book they are reading, or a chapter of their book, as a graphic novel. Set parameters for the assignment such as including six scenes from the story, three characters, details about the setting, etc. And, of course, include detailed illustrations to accompany the story.

3. Book Snaps

Book Snaps are a way for students to visually show how they are reacting to, processing, and/or connecting with a text. First, students snap a picture of a page in the book they are reading. Then, they add comments, images, highlights, and more.

4. Diary Entry

Have your students place themselves in the shoes of one of the characters from their book and write a first-person diary entry of a critical moment from the story. Ask them to choose a moment in the story where the character has plenty of interaction and emotion to share in a diary entry.

5. Pizza Box Book Report

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas that use upcycled materials, try this one using a pizza box. It works well for both nonfiction and fiction book reports. The top lid provides a picture of the book cover. Each wedge of the pizza pie tells part of the story.

6. Book Jacket

Have students create a new book jacket for their story. Include an attractive illustrated cover, a summary, a short biography of the author, and a few reviews from readers.

7. Mint Tin Book Report

There are so many super-creative, open-ended projects you can use mint tins for. Teacher blogger Teacher Thrive describes the process of creating book reports using them. There’s even a free template for cards that fit inside.

8. Fictional Yearbook Entries

Ask your students to create a yearbook based on the characters and setting in the book. What do they look like? Cut out magazine pictures to give a good visual image for their school picture. What kind of superlative might they get? Best-looking? Class clown? What clubs would they be in or lead? Did they win any awards? It should be obvious from their small yearbooks whether your students dug deep into the characters in their books. They may also learn that who we are as individuals is reflected in what we choose to do with our lives.

9. Book Report Cake

This project would be perfect for a book tasting in your classroom! Each student presents their book report in the shape of food. Learn more about book tastings .

10. Current Events Comparison

Have students locate three to five current events articles a character in their book might be interested in. After they’ve found the articles, have them explain why the character would find them interesting and how they relate to the book. Learning about how current events affect time, place, and people is critical to helping develop opinions about what we read and experience in life.

11. Sandwich Book Report

Yum! You’ll notice a lot of our creative book report ideas revolve around food. In this oldie but goodie, each layer of this book report sandwich covers a different element of the book—characters, setting, conflict, etc.

12. Book Alphabet

Choose 15 to 20 alphabet books to help give your students examples of how they work around themes. Then ask your students to create their own Book Alphabet based on the book they read. What artifacts, vocabulary words, and names reflect the important parts of the book? After they find a word to represent each letter, have them write one sentence that explains where the word fits in.

13. Peekaboo Book Report

Using cardboard lap books (or small science report boards), students include details about their book’s main characters, plot, setting, conflict, resolution, etc. Then they draw a head and arms on card stock and attach them to the board from behind to make it look like the main character is peeking over this book report.

14. Act the Part

Have students dress up as their favorite character from the book and present an oral book report. If their favorite character is not the main character, retell the story from their point of view.

15. T-shirt Book Report

Another fun and creative idea: Create a wearable book report with a plain white tee. Come up with your own using Sharpie pens and acrylic paint.

16. Bookmark

Have students create a custom illustrated bookmark that includes drawings and words from either their favorite chapter or the entire book.

17. Rays of Sunshine Book Report

This is great for biography research projects. Students cut out a photocopied image of their subject and glue it in the middle. Then, they draw lines from the image to the edges of the paper, like rays of sunshine, and fill in each section with information about the person. As a book report template, the center image could be a copy of the book cover, and each section expands on key information such as character names, theme(s), conflict, resolution, etc.

18. Reading Lists for Characters

Ask your students to think about a character in their book. What kinds of books might that character like to read? Take them to the library to choose five books the character might have on their to-be-read list. Have them list the books and explain what each book might mean to the character. Post the to-be-read lists for others to see and choose from—there’s nothing like trying out a book character’s style when developing your own identity.

19. Character To-Do List

This fun activity is an off-the-beaten-path way to dive deep into character analysis. Get inside the head of the main character in a book and write a to-do list that they might write. Use actual information from the text, but also make inferences into what that character may wish to accomplish.

20. Collage

Create a collage using pictures and words that represent different parts of the book. Use old magazines or print pictures from the Internet.

21. Book Reports in a Bag

Looking for book report ideas that really encourage creative thinking? With book reports in a bag, students read a book and write a summary. Then, they decorate a paper grocery bag with a scene from the book, place five items that represent something from the book inside the bag, and present the bag to the class.

22. Timeline

Have students create a timeline of the main events from their book. Be sure to include character names and details for each event. Use 8″ x 11″ sheets of paper taped together or a long portion of bulletin board paper.

23. File Folder Book Report

Also called a lap book, this easy-to-make book report hits on all the major elements of a book study and gives students a chance to show what they know in a colorful way.

24. Public Service Announcement

If a student has read a book about a cause that affects people, animals, or the environment, teach them about public service announcements . Once they understand what a PSA is, have them research the issue or cause that stood out in the book. Then provide a template for a storyboard so they can create their own PSA. Some students might want to take it a step further and create a video based on their storyboard. Consider sharing their storyboard or video with an organization that supports the cause or issue.

25. Triorama Book Report

Who doesn’t love a multidimensional book report? This image shows a 3D model, but you can also try an accordion-folded book report, a quadrama, or an info-sphere.

26. Character Cards

Make trading cards (like baseball cards) for a few characters from the book. On the front side, draw the character. On the back side, make a list of their character traits and include a quote or two.

27. Book Report Mobile

This creative project doesn’t require a fancy or expensive supply list. Students just need an ordinary clothes hanger, strings, and paper. The body of the hanger is used to identify the book, and the cards on the strings dangling below are filled with key elements of the book, like characters, setting, and a summary.

28. Fact Sheet

Have students create a list of 10 facts that they learned from reading the book. Have them write the facts in complete sentences, and be sure that each fact is something that they didn’t know before they read the book.

29. Dodecahedron Book Report

Creative book report ideas think outside the box. In this case, it’s a ball! SO much information can be covered on the 12 panels, and it allows students to take a deep dive in a creative way.

30. Be a Character Therapist

Therapists work to uncover their clients’ fears based on their words and actions. When we read books, we must learn to use a character’s actions and dialogue to infer their fears. Many plots revolve around a character’s fear and the work it takes to overcome that fear. Ask students to identify a character’s fear and find 8 to 10 scenes that prove this fear exists. Then have them write about ways the character overcame the fear (or didn’t) in the story. What might the character have done differently?

31. Charm Bracelet Book Report

What a “charming” way to write a book report! Each illustrated bracelet charm captures a character, an event in the plot, setting, or other detail.

32. Mind Maps

Mind maps can be a great way to synthesize what students have learned from reading a book. Plus, there are so many ways to approach them. Begin by writing a central idea in the middle of the page. For example, general information, characters, plot, etc. Then branch out from the center with ideas, thoughts, and connections to material from the book.

33. Book Report Booklets

This clever book report is made from ordinary paper bags. Stack the paper bags on top of each other, fold them in half, and staple the closed-off ends of the bags together. Students can write, draw, and decorate on the paper bag pages. They can also record information on writing or drawing paper and glue the paper onto the pages. The open ends of the bags can be used as pockets to insert photos, cut-outs, postcards, or other flat items that help them tell their story.

34. Letter to the Author

Have kids write a letter to the author of the book. Tell them three things you really liked about the story. Ask three questions about the plot, characters, or anything else you’re curious about.

35. Cardboard Box TV

This cardboard box TV book report project is a low-tech version of a television made from a cereal box and two paper towel rolls. Students create the viewing screen cut out at the top, then insert a scroll of paper with writing and illustrations inside the box. When the cardboard roll is rotated, the story unfolds.

36. Board games

This is a great project if you want your students to develop a little more insight into what they’re reading. Have them think about the elements of their favorite board games and how they can be adapted to fit this assignment.

37. Foldables

From Rainbows Within Reach, this clever idea would be a great introduction to writing book reports. Adapt the flap categories for students at different levels. Adjust the number of categories (or flaps) per the needs of your students.

38. Timeline

Create a timeline using a long roll of butcher paper, a poster board, or index cards taped together. For each event on the timeline, write a brief description of what happens. Add pictures, clip art, word art, and symbols to make the timeline more lively and colorful.

39. Comic Strips

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas for students who like graphic novels, try comic strip book reports. Include an illustrated cover with the title and author. The pages of the book should retell the story using dialogue and descriptions of the setting and characters. Of course, no comic book would be complete without copious illustrations and thought bubbles.

40. Movie Version

If the book your students have read has been made into a movie, have them write a report about how the versions are alike and different. If the book has not been made into a movie, have them write a report telling how they would make it into a movie, using specific details from the book.

41. Wanted Poster

Make a Wanted poster for one of the book’s main characters. Indicate whether they are wanted dead or alive. Include a picture of the character and a description of what the character is “wanted” for, three examples of the character showing this trait, and a detailed account of where the character was last seen.

42. Wheaties Box Book Report

Recycle a cereal box and create a book report to look like an old-fashioned Wheaties box that features sports heroes. Include a main image on the front side of the box. Decorate the sides of the box with information about the book’s characters, setting, plot, summary, etc.

Come share your own creative book report ideas in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, dont’ miss 100 famous children’s books every kid should read (plus free printable).

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10 Book Report Ideas That Kids Will Love

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Fun book report ideas for fourth, fifth and sixth graders.

Book reports don’t need to be painfully boring. In fact, they can be a ton of fun, and with the right project, students will love the entire process of creating and sharing meaningful book projects. There are loads of great book report ideas out there just waiting to happen in your classroom!

Here are 10 book report ideas that kids will love:

1. cereal box book report.

These oh-so-cool reports were always the top-ranked project by my fifth graders. Students loved creating an original book report display using a covered cereal box and ready-made templates. The finished projects made a great classroom display, and students loved looking at their classmates’ creative reports. Read more about Cereal Box Book Reports HERE .

2. Paper Bag Book Report

This is a super simple idea that is quite fun for students. Provide each student with a lunch-sized paper bag. Tell them to think about 5 objects that relate to the main character of their book . The objects have to be small enough to fit into the bag . Send the bags home and have students place the 5 objects in the bag and bring them back to school. On the day they are due, have students take turns sharing the objects in their bags and explaining how they relate to the main character of the book. You can even make a great display with the bags, objects, and books to pique the interest of other students.

3. Character Day

Have students dress up as the main character of their book. Then, have each student take a turn standing in front of the class and telling their character’s story in first person point of view.

4. Book Report Lap Book

you need are two file folders, some cardstock or construction paper, scissors, glue, and the FREE book report template found here . The finished products are quite amazing, and your students will probably keep theirs forever! Check out my photo tutorial for making a lap book .

5. Book Scene Diorama

Have students construct a diorama of one of the main events of their book. They will make a 3-dimensional scene, including models of characters, the setting, and objects. A shoebox makes a great place to build a diorama. Require students to write a description of the scene.

6. Book Report Posters

This might be the easiest option of the book report ideas. Have students first sketch their posters on a sheet of notebook paper. Then, provide students with a large piece of poster paper or chart paper. Posters must identify main characters, setting, title, problem, and solution. Display finished posters in the classroom or on hallway walls.

7. Book Report Mobiles

Mobiles are easy to make, and it’s fun to watch students use their creativity in designing their own projects. A paper plate folded in half makes a great base/topper for mobiles. Have students write the title of the book on this paper plate semi circle and hang the mobile pieces from it. Provide students with construction paper, yarn, markers, paper hole punches, and any other materials they might need.

8. Book Report Mini Books

With just one piece of paper, your students can make a complete, creative book report!

In these clever book projects , students identify:

• Title/Author
• Main Character

No tape, glue, or staples required! Photo directions are included in this download.

9. Design a Book Jacket

Show your students several examples of some outstanding book jackets. Point out the front with the title and illustration, the spine and its information, and the back with the book summary. Also show the two inside flaps with information about the author and a smaller summary. Provide them each with a larger piece of paper and have them design a jacket for the book they have just read.

10. Ready-to-Print Templates

Use NO PREP book report templates to save your sanity AND to keep things fun for your students. You could print out all 12 templates in this Book Report Templates Packet and let students choose the one they want to do each month! There is even a really nice digital option for Google classroom included!

Regardless of which of these book report ideas you choose, be sure to clearly outline the expectations before your students begin. It’s best if you can model a project to demonstrate the quality of work your students should strive for.

Keep it fun and engaging, and your students will be excited to invest their time in their projects!

Check out these ready to go, easy to use book report projects in my store:

SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!

Pin this to your favorite classroom Pinterest board  so you can come back for these book report ideas!

To recap, the 10 Book Report Project Ideas are:

• Cereal Box Book Report
• Paper Bag Book Report
• Character Day
• Book Report Lapbook
• Book Scene Diorama
• Book Report Posters
• Book Report Mobiles
• Design a Book Jacket
• Ready-to-Print Templates

Shelly Rees

Hi, I’m Shelly! Thank you for being here. I love helping third, fourth, and fifth grade teachers with fun and engaging activities that require no to little prep! Let me help you by taking some of the stress and work off your plate.

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How to Write a Book Report (+ Book Report Example) 

Download for free, specific tips for writing effective book reports..

Write better book reports using the tips, examples, and outlines presented here. This resource covers three types of effective book reports: plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. It also features a specific book report example for students.

How to write a book report (+ book report example) 

Whether you're a student looking to show your comprehension of a novel, or simply a book lover wanting to share your thoughts, writing a book report can be a rewarding experience. This guide, filled with tips, tricks, and a book report example, will help you craft a report that effectively communicates your understanding and analysis of your chosen book.

Looking for a printable resource on book reports? See our Printable Book Report Outlines and Examples

What is a book report? 

Book reports can take on many different forms. Writing a book review helps you practice giving your opinion about different aspects of a book, such as an author's use of description or dialogue.

You can write book reports of any type, from fiction to non-fiction research papers, or essay writing; however, there are a few basic elements you need to include to convey why the book you read was interesting when writing a good book report.

Types of book reports 

Three types of effective book reports are plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. Each type focuses on different aspects of the book and requires a unique approach. These three types of book reports will help you demonstrate your understanding of the book in different ways.

Plot summary

When you are writing a plot summary for your book report you don't want to simply summarize the story. You need to explain what your opinion is of the story and why you feel the plot is so compelling, unrealistic, or sappy. It is the way you analyze the plot that will make this a good report. Make sure that you use plenty of examples from the book to support your opinions.

Try starting the report with a sentence similar to the following:

The plot of I Married a Sea Captain , by Monica Hubbard, is interesting because it gives the reader a realistic sense of what it was like to be the wife of a whaling captain and live on Nantucket during the 19th century.

Character analysis

If you choose to write a character analysis, you can explore the physical and personality traits of different characters and the way their actions affect the plot of the book.

• Explore the way a character dresses and what impression that leaves with the reader.
• What positive characteristics does the character possess?
• Does the character have a "fatal flaw" that gets him/her into trouble frequently?
• Try taking examples of dialogue and analyzing the way a character speaks. Discuss the words he/she chooses and the way his/her words affect other characters.
• Finally, tie all of your observations together by explaining the way the characters make the plot move forward.

In the novel Charlotte's Web , by E. B. White, Templeton the rat may seem like an unnecessary character but his constant quest for food moves the plot forward in many ways.

Theme analyses

Exploring the themes (or big ideas that run throughout the story) in a book can be a great way to write a book report because picking a theme that you care about can make the report easier to write. Try bringing some of your thoughts and feelings as a reader into the report as a way to show the power of a theme. Before you discuss your own thoughts, however, be sure to establish what the theme is and how it appears in the story.

• Explain  exactly  what theme you will be exploring in your book report.
• Use as many examples and quotations from the book as possible to prove that the theme is important to the story.
• Make sure that you talk about each example or quotation you've included. Make a direct connection between the theme and the example from the book.
• After you have established the theme and thoroughly examined the way it affects the book, include a few sentences about the impact the theme had upon you and why it made the book more or less enjoyable to read.

In the novel Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry , by Mildred Taylor, the theme of racial prejudice is a major catalyst in the story.

How to write a book report

1. Thoroughly read the book

Immerse yourself in the book, taking the time to read it in its entirety. As you read, jot down notes on important aspects such as key points, themes, and character developments.

2. Identify the main elements of the book

Scrutinize the book's primary components, including its main themes, characters, setting, and plot. These elements will form the basis of your report.

3. Formulate a thesis statement

Compose a thesis statement that encapsulates your personal perspective about the book. This should be a concise statement that will guide your analysis and give your report a clear focus.

4. Create a detailed outline

Plan the structure of your book report. This outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs each focusing on a different aspect of the book, and a conclusion.

5. Craft the introduction

The introduction should provide basic information such as the book's title and author, and present your thesis statement. It should engage the reader and make them interested in your analysis.

6. Write the body of the report

In the body of your report, discuss in detail the book's main elements that you identified in step 3. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis and to prove your thesis statement.

7. Write a strong conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize your analysis, reaffirm your thesis, and provide a closing thought or reflection on the overall book.

8. Review and edit your report

After writing, take the time to revise your report for clarity and coherence. Check for and correct any grammar or spelling errors. Ensure that your report clearly communicates your understanding and analysis of the book.

9. Include citations

If you have used direct quotes or specific ideas from the book, make sure to include proper citations . This is crucial in academic writing and helps avoid plagiarism.

10. Proofread

Finally, proofread your work. Look for any missed errors and make sure that the report is the best it can be before submitting it.

Book report example 

Below is a book report example on the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

In  To Kill a Mockingbird , Harper Lee presents a thoughtful exploration of racial prejudice, morality, and the loss of innocence. Set in the small, fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression, the book centers around the Finch family - young Scout, her older brother Jem, and their widowed father, Atticus. Scout's character provides a fresh perspective as she narrates her experiences and observations of the unjust racial prejudice in her town. Her honesty and curiosity, coupled with her father's teachings, allow her to grow from innocence to a more profound understanding of her society's inequalities. The plot revolves around Atticus Finch, a respected lawyer, defending a black man, Tom Robinson, unjustly accused of raping a white woman. As the trial progresses, it becomes clear that Robinson is innocent, and the accusation was a product of racial prejudice. Despite compelling evidence in Robinson's favor, he is convicted, symbolizing the power of bias over truth. The theme of racial prejudice is a significant part of the book. Lee uses the trial and its unjust outcome to critique the racial prejudice prevalent in society. For example, despite Atticus's solid defense, the jury's racial bias leads them to find Robinson guilty. This instance highlights how deeply ingrained prejudice can subvert justice. The book also explores the theme of the loss of innocence. Scout and Jem's experiences with prejudice and injustice lead to their loss of innocence and a better understanding of the world's complexities. For example, Scout's realization of her town's unfair treatment of Robinson demonstrates her loss of innocence and her understanding of societal biases. Overall,  To Kill a Mockingbird  is a compelling exploration of the harsh realities of prejudice and the loss of innocence. Harper Lee's intricate characters and vivid storytelling have made this book a classic.

The above is an excellent book report example for several reasons. First, it provides a clear, concise summary of the plot without giving away the entire story. Second, it analyzes the main characters, their roles, and their impacts on the story. Third, it discusses the major themes of the book - racial prejudice and loss of innocence - and supports these themes with evidence from the text. Finally, it presents a personal perspective on the book's impact and overall message, demonstrating a deep understanding of the book's significance.

Book report checklist

Always  include the following elements in any book report:

• The type of book report you are writing
• The book's title
• The author of the book
• The time when the story takes place
• The location where the story takes place
• The names and a  brief  description of each of the characters you will be discussing
• Many quotations and examples from the book to support your opinions
• A thesis statement
• The point of view of the narrator
• Summary of the book
• The main points or themes discussed in the work of fiction or non-fiction
• The first paragraph (introductory paragraph), body paragraphs, and final paragraph
• The writing styles of the author
• A critical analysis of the fiction or non-fiction book

Don't forget! 

No matter what type of book report you decide to write, ensure it includes basic information about the main characters, and make sure that your writing is clear and expressive so that it’s easy for audiences in middle school, high school, college-level, or any grade level to understand. Also, include examples from the book to support your opinions. Afterward, conduct thorough proofreading to complete the writing process. Book reports may seem disconnected from your other schoolwork, but they help you learn to summarize, compare and contrast, make predictions and connections, and consider different perspectives & skills you'll need throughout your life.

Looking for more writing resources? You can find them in our creative writing center .

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The Best Realistic Fiction Books for 6th Graders

Got a 6th grader or advanced elementary schooler who loves fiction rooted in reality? Then these realistic fiction books for 6th graders will interest you. Typically, 6th graders are new middle schoolers, many of whom are strong readers. Still, I like to recommend gentler fiction for kids in this age group. So on this list, you’ll find books that tackle serious issues in a sensitive way and some others that are just heaps of fun.

Look out for a graphic novel about moving and Black hair, a book about a house swap with many surprises, a story of a young Black boy who loves a good card game, and many more. I’ve added a little “award” containing subject/theme buzzwords for each book to help you match it to its perfect reader.

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20 Fantastic Realistic Fiction Books for 6th Graders

Here are 20 realistic fiction options for 6th graders:

For the Animal Lover

Published: March 2, 2021

Let’s start with this crowd-pleaser! Allergic  is a sweet, realistic depiction of what it’s like to suffer with allergies. This graphic novel features stunning illustrations, a lovable protagonist, and  a rambunctious family .

Maggie loves animals and has been waiting patiently to get a dog, only to discover that she’s allergic. She’s also dealing with a changing family in which she feels less and less like she belongs. Her two little brothers are seemingly obsessed with each other and couldn’t care less about her. Her mother is heavily pregnant and excited for the new baby.

Maggie starts getting shots to get her allergies under control while on the hunt for a hypoallergenic pet. Things appear to be looking up when Maggie meets Claire, an only child living with her single dad, who indulges her every whim. Claire is one grade above Maggie, but the two become fast friends — until Claire gets a dog.

For the Math Whiz

Published: September 7, 2021

This is a sadder but important middle grade book with moments of levity in theater, school friendships, and repairing a fractured family.

In the aftermath of her little brother’s death, Lucy and her parents move to a small town that is still healing from a school shooting four years ago. It’s jarring for Lucy to be around all these kids who lost friends when they were in the third grade, but it’s even harder because, unlike the situation in her home, the kids talk a lot about the shooting, their grief, and seeing therapists.

However, in all their sharing, the students have cast the shooter’s younger sister and their classmate, Avery — whom Lucy befriends — as an outsider. Will Lucy ever find her place and deal with her grief?

Funny with Plenty of Heart

No Fixed Address

Published: September 11, 2018

12-year-old Felix Knuttson is a sweet kid whose brain soaks up trivia like a sponge. His mom Astrid (whom he calls by her name), is loving but unreliable and can’t seem to hold on to a job or a house. When they lose their apartment in Vancouver, Astrid “borrows” a camper van from an ex and moves them in there “just for August” until she finds a job.

But September comes, and there’s still no job or house, and Felix needs an address to enroll in school. Astrid figures out a way to do that, but Felix can’t tell anyone about their home situation. At the new school, he makes two new friends and finds out about a trivia contest that might change their housing situation. Unfortunately, things don’t go as planned.

I loved this one so much but heads up for some content issues . Please read my full review before purchasing.

Perfect for the Foodie

The Thing About Leftovers

Published: July 19, 2016

Although the start of this one was a bit slow for me, I warmed up at about the 15% mark — and then I loved every word. Fizzy is the daughter of divorced parents. Her father has remarried, and her mother is in a serious relationship. Fizzy is also an excellent cook — so good that she’s entering the Southern Living cook-off. But she has other struggles to contend with.

At school, she doesn’t have any real friends, and then her mom announces that she’s marrying her boyfriend, Keane (whom Fizzy dislikes). Fizzy also has to shuttle between both parents’ homes, and she’s constantly feeling like the “leftover” child since both her parents are moving on and forming new families.

Eventually, she does make two friends at school, a Japanese-American girl Miyoko, and a foster kid named Zach. As she gets to know both kids, Fizzy realizes that family comes in different shapes and sizes — and that each family has its quirks. But will she finally find her place in hers?

For the Friendship (or Hair) Enthusiast

Culfriends: New in Town

Published: October 10, 2023

Charlie is the new kid for the umpteenth time, but this time things will be different. Her dad is no longer in the military, and this is a more permanent home, so she feels more pressure to find and impress some new friends. When she meets a cool group of Black girls with varying interests, she decides to hide her “babyish” style and hobbies to befriend them. But she soon learns that with true friends, you can be your whole self.

I love that this book exists because there are so few stories about Black hair for middle schoolers, and I love how different all four girls are and the fact that the story is about mundane day-to-day life, which is rare for POC stories. This is a cute first book in a new graphic novel series perfect for readers looking for stories about Black hair, girlfriends, fashion, and adjusting to change.

For Coping with a Friend Break-Up

My Not-So-Great French Escape

Published: March 14, 2023

My Not-So-Great French Escape  is a funny, emotional, and adventure-filled book about changing friendships, cultivating self-worth, and learning the value of hard work. It does start a bit slow, but the protagonist has. a nice sense of humor that propels the story.

Rylan agrees to work as a farm hand in France in order to reconnect with his used-to-be best friend, Wilder. Both their moms are friends, and Wilder’s wealthier mom is happy to pay Rylan’s way. Wilder and Rylan’s friendship has been shaky since Wilder has been ditching Rylan for the cool kids. And the trip is about to get more complicated when Rylan’s mom tells him that his estranged father lives in France and wants to reconnect with him.

When they arrive in France, Wilder quickly joins a different group of kids on the farm from Rylan’s deflating his hopes of reconnecting. Rylan has to find his way and decide whether or not to meet his dad. Will his French escape be worth it?

For Finding Your Voice

Make a Move, Sunny Park!

Published: August 15, 2023

Sunny Park is a socially anxious girl obsessed with her favorite K-Pop band, Supreme Beat. She has one friend, Bailey, and tries to be there as much as possible (to a fault) for her—even when it means quitting ballet which she loved.

But when Bailey drags her to audition for her school’s dance team, Sunny gets in, and Bailey doesn’t. Sunny’s mom insists that Sunny continues on the team, to Bailey’s dismay. As Sunny makes new friends, she starts to realize that maybe Bailey isn’t such a great one.

This was a fun, relatable (at times frustrating) story about standing up for oneself, dance, fandom, and finding true friends. Like  Kim’s Yumi Chung , this is on the longer side, but Sunny is an engaging character who I think young readers will identify with.

For the Anxious Artist

Drawing Deena

Published:  February 6, 2024

Deena struggles with anxiety (although she doesn’t know that’s what it’s called yet). She likes to paint and wants to be an artist when she grows up (even though her parents don’t think it’s a real career). They have some financial challenges, so Deena decides to help promote her mom’s business using art and social media.

But when things pick up and her cousin who’s modeling her mother’s merchandise, starts getting plenty of attention, there’s an extra reason for anxiety. Soon Deena realizes that she can ask for help. Like everything Hena Khan writes, this book is warm and relatable and centers a Pakistani-American family. Hand to fans of Amina’s Voice and kids who want stories about anxiety.

For the Future Gardener

The Summer of June

Published: May 31, 2022

Meet June Delancey. June is tired of having anxiety rule her life and has made a plan to kick it to the curb this summer. She’s going to put herself out there—she and her fierce single mom who works at the library. Fortunately, June meets Homer, a middle school boy who loves reciting poetry and believes in June! But there are a few bumps in the road for June. Will she win this summer?

I loved how realistic, heartrending, and satisfying this story is. If you’re looking for a book about anxiety (June is so anxious she pulls her hair out—LITERALLY), summer, and friendship set in the library (June’s mom works there!), don’t miss this one!

Unlikely Friends Unite

Honeybees and Frenemies

Published:  June 4, 2019

Flor’s parents’ mattress store is struggling this summer, and her parents are fighting more than ever. The summer seems to get brighter when she gets a chance to be in their town’s local honey pageant with her frenemy (former friend turned bitter enemy) Candice. The girls’ friendship was ruined when Flor won the pageant in third grade, and Candice (the runner-up) suggested that she only won because she was half-Indian. Can the girls make it work now? And with Flor make it through the summer with her family intact?

This is a warm, humorous, and relatable middle grade  book about bees , family, and frenemies. 

The Relatable Graphic Memoir

Published:  May 2, 2023

Sixth grade is off to a rocky start for Rex. His district moved most of his elementary school to another middle school, his best friend ditches him for the popular crew, and his blurry vision means he has to get clunky new glasses–the only kind his family can afford. This sweet graphic novel  for fans of Telgemeier  is an ode to middle school, family, and finding your people.

Sibling Drama

Twin Cities

Published: July 19, 2022

Twins Teresa and Fernando are starting 6th grade on different paths. Teresa is ready for some independence and is happy to start school in the US, just across the border, while her twin loves being part of a duo and is remaining in Mexico because he thinks most of his friends are staying too. As Teresa crosses the border daily for school while facing new challenges, and Fernando attends middle school without a friend, both kids need each other more than ever.

This is a beautiful graphic novel in terms of art and story! It’s the best kind of slice-of-life story, with both kids’ lives depicted in separate panels, complete with representations of Mexican food and scenes. Heads up for a teeny content issue (one of the kids is offered weed by a friend and does take it — although this is implied), but it’s portrayed in a very negative light.

For the Dance Fan

Published: October 18, 2022

Cory’s dance crew is getting ready for a major competition. It’s the last one before they graduate eighth grade and go their separate ways to high schools all over New York City, so they have to make it count! The group starts to have problems as their crew captain gets increasingly intense about nailing the routine, and things go from bad to worse when Cory’s parents ground him for not taking his grades seriously.

He gets stuck with a new tutor, Sunna, who he dismisses as a boring nerd… until he catches her secretly practicing cool yo-yo tricks. Cory wants to learn the art of yo-yo, and as his friendship with Sunna grows, he ends up missing practice and bailing on his crew — and they are not happy about it. With mounting pressure coming from all sides, how is Cory supposed to balance the expectations of his parents, school, dance, and his new friend?

Rethinking Body Image

A Work in Progress

Will feels like the only chubby kid in his class and feels insecure about his weight. Add to that the bullying he faces and his observations of his mother’s attitude toward food, and he falls into a pattern of disordered eating and over-exercising. Thankfully, a budding friendship with a new classmate changes his view. This is a great book about body image issues, and it’s done in an illustrated verse format that I think kids will love.

A Protagonist to Root For

The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry

Published:  August 15, 2023

Juniper and her family live off-the-grid, and she loves it. Her mom has warned her that life in society is stressful, but Juniper’s older sister still wants to try living there. Unfortunately, regardless of the family’s desires, they all have to move to the nearest town when their youngest family member becomes seriously ill. Juniper’s dad even has to work to pay the hospital bills while the girls live with their uncle and his daughters.

It turns out that school is hard for Juniper. The kids treat her like a weirdo, and her cousin doesn’t even want to be seen with her — she prefers to hang out with the kids who bully her. Juniper wants to help her dad pay the bills, so she gets a job helping a neighbor with her garden and starts a YouTube channel to teach people about the woods, which leads to more bullying but also heartwarming surprises.

I loved learning about off-the-grid living, and this one reminded me a lot of Carr’s 365 Days to Alaska . This is one of my favorite books this year, and I think kids will love learning about Juniper.

For the Business Savvy

The Do-Over

Published: May 23, 2023

Mariana is a shy girl looking for friends in a new town. Things seem to be looking up when she befriends two creative kids, and they start running a salon together. Soon, though, they have more demand than they can keep up with. This is a great graphic novel for kids who are always thinking about starting a business, love being creative, or just love a good graphic novel.

The Perfect Cozy Read

The House Swap

Published:  February 28, 2023

Allie and Sage are forced together when their families’ plan to swap houses goes awry. Allie is a British girl living in the countryside and preparing to be a spy when she grows up. She’s also the (overlooked, she feels) middle child, stuck between a teen brother and a talkative little sister.

Sage is an only child in sunny California, growing up with parents who seem to be growing apart. She gets more worried when she discovers that only her mom will be coming with her to the English countryside. Both girls realize that they have more in common than they think and decide to help each other — Ally with Sage’s parents and Sage with being Allie’s friend.

This is a cozy, charming middle grade book about family (history & secrets), new friendships, and  navigating parental divorce . Reminiscent of the beloved movie,  The Holiday , this middle grade book is perfect for anyone looking for a  feel-good reading  experience 

From the Bully’s POV

Jennifer Chan Is Not Alone

Published:  April 26, 2022

Tae Keller’s newest middle grade book,  Jennifer Chan Is Not Alone , opens with new girl Jennifer Chan declared missing at her middle school. As whispers begin, her next-door neighbor Mallory Moss worries that Jennifer may have been abducted by aliens (which Jennifer believed existed). Mallory reunites with two former friends begging them to help her find Jennifer following clues from her time with Jennifer and the diary Jennifer left behind.

The story alternates between past and present as readers discover that Mallory’s search is also motivated by an ulterior motive: the need to prove that she and her popular friends didn’t run Jennifer Chan out of town with their bullying.

A New Type of Masculinity

Playing the Cards You’re Dealt

Published: October 5, 2021

Ten-year-old Anthony Joplin is finally old enough to play in the spades tournament every Joplin Man before him seems to have won. Then Ant’s best friend gets grounded, and he’s forced to find another spades partner. And Shirley, the new girl in his class, isn’t exactly who he has in mind. But she’s smart and tough and pretty and knows every card trick in the book. So Ant decides to join forces with Shirley — and keep his plans a secret.

Then Ant’s best friend gets grounded, and he’s forced to find another spades partner. And Shirley, the new girl in his class, isn’t exactly who he has in mind. She talks a whole lot of trash — way more than his old partner. Plus, he’s not sure that his father wants him to play with a girl. But she’s smart and tough and pretty and knows every card trick in the book. So Ant decides to join forces with Shirley — and keep his plans a secret.

Only it turns out secrets are another Joplin Man tradition. And his father is hiding one so big it may tear their family apart. I loved this one on audio and think it’s a fantastic pick for 6th graders about toxic masculinity, addiction, and male friendships.

Finding Your Roots

I Can Make This Promise

Published:  October 1, 2019

All her life, Edie has known that her mom was adopted by a white couple. So, no matter how curious she might be about her Native American heritage, Edie is sure her family doesn’t have any answers.

Until the day when she and her friends discover a box hidden in the attic—a box full of letters signed “Love, Edith,” and photos of a woman who looks just like her.

Suddenly, Edie has a flurry of new questions about this woman who shares her name. Could she belong to the Native family that Edie never knew about? But if her mom and dad have kept this secret from her all her life, how can she trust them to tell her the truth now?

There they are: 20 of the best realistic fiction books for 6th graders! Which of these books have you read and loved? Which ones did I miss?

More Books for 6th Graders

• A huge list of all kinds of 6th grade books
• Great books for 11 year olds
• Mystery books for 6th graders

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• About Afoma Umesi

Afoma Umesi is the founder and editor of Reading Middle Grade where she curates book lists and writes book reviews for kids of all ages. Her favorite genre to read is contemporary realistic fiction and she'll never say no to a graphic novel.

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Grade 6 Book Report Set

Instead of $53.49

This pack contains

The Good Master $7.99 x 1

Beorn the Proud $14.30 x 1

Adam of the Road $8.95 x 1

The Winged Watchman $14.30 x 1

Blue Willow $7.95 x 1

Description

Used in the Seton Curriculum for Grade 6 Book Reports. Includes Beorn the Proud, The Winged Watchman, Adam of the Road, Blue Willow, and The Good Master.

Swiss Family Robinson had been a part of this set, but is no longer included. The price has been adjusted to reflect this change. 

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