book review for 2nd graders

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Best Books for Second-Graders

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

The Boxcar Children Series

Engaging classic mystery series great for beginning readers.

Charlotte's Web

Gentle, much-loved barnyard classic delights all ages.

Half Magic: Tales of Magic, Book 1

Delightful, charming classic has adventure, humor, heart.

The Magic School Bus Series

Smart science-based series mixes facts and fun.

Ramona the Pest

Ramona tale helps young kids build empathy.

Secrets of Droon Series

Simple but inventive series great for first fantasy reading.

The Best of Iggy: Iggy, Book 1

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

Black Brother, Black Brother

Boy challenges school bully in exciting sports story.

The Blossoming Universe of Violet Diamond

Sweet tale of biracial girl in search of lost family.

The City of Ember

Part fantasy, part mystery, part treasure hunt.

Strange, surreal tale sure to creep kids out.

Dragons in a Bag, Book 1

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

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

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

Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures

Funny, poignant tale of cynical girl, superpowered squirrel.

From the Desk of Zoe Washington

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

Goblin Secrets

Orphan boy seeks lost brother in exciting, funny tale.

A Good Kind of Trouble

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

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

Magical start of the fantastic boy-wizard series.

Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition

Powerful true story of African American women at NASA.

The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom

Engaging fairy tale spoof is clever and funny.

Other great lists from our editors

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

Favorite books for 2nd graders

by: The GreatSchools Editorial Team

Print book list

Clara and the Bookwagon

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like historical fiction.

Find Clara and the Bookwagon at your local library.

Could You? Would You?

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like adventure stories.

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

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

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

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

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

Mom and Dad Are Palindromes

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like humor stories.

Find Mom and Dad Are Palindromes at your local library.

My Dad’s a Birdman

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like fantasy stories.

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

Mr. George Baker

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like realism.

Find Mr. George Baker at your local library.

Once Upon a Time

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

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

Find Once Upon a Time at your local library.

The Random House Book of Poetry for Children

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

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

Perfect for: For kids who like poetry.

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

A Fine, Fine School

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like school.

Find A Fine, Fine School at your local library.

Get Ready for Second Grade, Amber Brown

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

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

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

It’s Test Day, Tiger Turcotte

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

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

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

Virgie Goes to School with Us Boys

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

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

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

Ira Sleeps Over

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

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

Find Ira Sleeps Over at your local library.

The Adventures of Taxi Dog

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

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

Find The Adventures of Taxi Dog at your local library.

Sneakers, the Seaside Cat

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

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

Find Sneakers, the Seaside Cat at your local library.

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like making friends.

Find Dear Max at your local library.

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

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

Find Dogku at your local library.

Fox and His Friends

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

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

Find Fox and His Friends at your local library.

Frog and Toad Together

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

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

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

We Are Best Friends

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

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

Find We Are Best Friends at your local library.

Painted Dreams

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like art.

Find Painted Dreams at your local library.

The Chocolate Touch

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like classic stories.

Find The Chocolate Touch at your local library.

Little Toot

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

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

Find Little Toot at your local library.

Make Way for Ducklings

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

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

Find Make Way for Ducklings at your local library.

The Puppy Sister

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

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

Find The Puppy Sister at your local library.

Atomic Ace (He’s Just My Dad)

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

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

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

The Bee-Man of Orn

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

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

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

Dinosaurs Before Dark, Magic Tree House series

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

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

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

Duck for President

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

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

Find Duck for President at your local library.

Dude, Where’s My Spaceship?

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

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

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

Hansel and Gretel

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

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

Find Hansel and Gretel at your local library.

My Father’s Dragon

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

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

Find My Father’s Dragon at your local library.

Roger the Jolly Pirate

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

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

Find Roger the Jolly Pirate at your local library.

Space Station Mars

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

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

Find Space Station Mars at your local library.

Tales Our Abuelitas Told: A Hispanic Folktale Collection

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Traction Man Is Here!

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

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

Find Traction Man Is Here! at your local library.

Why the Sky Is Far Away: A Nigerian Folktale

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

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

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

The Worst Witch at School

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

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

Find The Worst Witch at School at your local library.

Baseball Saved Us

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

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

Find Baseball Saved Us at your local library.

Chig and the Second Spread

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

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

Find Chig and the Second Spread at your local library.

The Enchanted Dolls’ House

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

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

Find The Enchanted Dolls’ House at your local library.

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

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

Find Show Way at your local library.

Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Babe Ruth Baseball

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like mysteries.

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

Julian, Secret Agent

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

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

Find Julian, Secret Agent at your local library.

The Seven Treasure Hunts

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

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

Find The Seven Treasure Hunts at your local library.

Tuff Fluff: The Case of Duckie’s Missing Brain

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

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

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

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

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

Find Brundibar at your local library.

Building With Dad

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

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

Find Building With Dad at your local library.

Hachiko: The True Story of a Loyal Dog

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

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

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

Mr. Peabody’s Apples

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like realism stories.

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

Sam and the Lucky Money

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

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

Find Sam and the Lucky Money at your local library.

Velma Gratch & the Way Cool Butterfly

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

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

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

Babymouse: Skater Girl

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

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

Find Babymouse: Skater Girl at your local library.

Come on, Rain

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

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

Find Come on, Rain at your local library.

Marja’s Skis

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who likes realism.

Find Marja’s Skis at your local library.

Nate the Great and the Mushy Valentine

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

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

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

Poppleton in Winter

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

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

Find Poppleton in Winter at your local library.

The Race of the Birkebeiners

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

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

Find The Race of the Birkebeiners at your local library.

Snow Wonder

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

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

Find Snow Wonder at your local library.

The Snowy Day

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

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

Find The Snowy Day at your local library.

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

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

Find Chester at your local library.

Diary of a Worm

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

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

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

Find Diary of a Worm at your local library.

Down Girl and Sit: Smarter than Squirrels

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

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

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

Drooling and Dangerous: The Riot Brothers Return

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

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

Perfect for: Siblings with a sense of fun.

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

Gator Gumbo

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

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

Find Gator Gumbo at your local library.

Gooney Bird Greene

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

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

Perfect for: Attention-seekers and their wallflower admirers.

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

How to Save Your Tail

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

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

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

Find How to Save Your Tail at your local library.

It’s Raining Pigs & Noodles

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who delight in rebellious behavior.

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

Moxy Maxwell Does Not Love Stuart Little

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

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

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

Ready Freddy: Don’t Sit on My Lunch

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

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

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

Science Verse

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like a little scientific humor.

Find Science Verse at your local library.

Soupy Saturdays with the Pain and the Great One

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

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

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

Tacky in Trouble

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

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

Find Tacky in Trouble at your local library.

Three Stories You Can Read to Your Dog

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

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

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

Mama Played Baseball

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like sports.

Find Mama Played Baseball at your local library.

Emperor Penguins

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like animals.

Find Emperor Penguins at your local library.

Encyclopedia Prehistorica: Dinosaurs

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

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

Find Encyclopedia Prehistorica: Dinosaurs at your local library.

Look What Tails Can Do

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

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

Find Look What Tails Can Do at your local library.

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

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

Find Water Hole at your local library.

The Flyer Flew! The Invention of the Airplane

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

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

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

Roberto Clemente: Pride of the Pittsburgh Pirates

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

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

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

Sixteen Years in Sixteen Seconds: The Sammy Lee Story

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

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

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

Smart About – George Washington Carver, The Peanut Wizard

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

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

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

What Presidents Are Made Of

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

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

Find What Presidents Are Made Of at your local library.

George Crum and the Saratoga Chip

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like history.

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

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

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

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

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

On the Mayflower

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

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

Find On the Mayflower at your local library.

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

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

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

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

The Story of the Pilgrims

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

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

Find The Story of the Pilgrims at your local library.

How to Be a Baby, by Me the Big Sister

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like nonfiction.

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

My Senator and Me

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

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

Find My Senator and Me at your local library.

Compost, by Gosh! An Adventure With Vermicomposting

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like science and nature.

Find Compost by Gosh! at your local library.

Dear Children of the Earth

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

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

Find Dear Children of the Earth at your local library.

Michael Recycle

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

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

Find Michael Recycle at your local library.

Recycle! A Handbook for Kids

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

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

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

Thanksgiving Day

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like holiday.

Find Thanksgiving Day at your local library.

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

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like sports and health.

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

The Kids Summer Games Book

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

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

Perfect for: Kids who like to play games.

Find The Kids Summer Games Book at your local library.

Winter of the Ice Wizard

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

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

Find Winter of the Ice Wizard at your local library.

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

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

Ladybug Girl

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

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

Find Ladybug Girl at your local library.

Bartholomew and the Oobleck

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

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

Find Bartholomew and the Oobleck at your local library.

Actual Size

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

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

Find Actual Size at your local library.

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50 Must-Read Books for Second Graders

by AuthorAmy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Second grade

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

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

1. Hello Lighthouse

by Sophie Blackall

Get it HERE .

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

2. Most Magnificent Thing

by Ashley Spires

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

3. What Do You Do With an Idea?

by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom

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

4. The Princess in Black

by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

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

5. Firefly July

by Paul B. Janeczko, illustrated by Melissa Sweet

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

6. The Hundred Dresses

by Eleanor Estes, illustrated by Louis Slobodkin

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

7. The Paper Bag Princess

by Robert Munsch, illustrated by Michael Martchenko

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

8. Feel the beat

by Marilyn Singer, illustrated by Kristi Valiant

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

9. All the Colors of the Earth

by Sheila Hamanaka

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

10. Billy Twitters and his Blue Whale Problem

by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Adam Rex

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

11. Joseph Had a Little Overcoat

by Simms Taback

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

12. A Bear Called Paddington

by Michael Bond, illustrated by Peggy Fortnum

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

13. Bunnicula

by Deborah and James Howe

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

14. Heckedy Peg

by Audrey Wood, illustrated by Don Wood

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

15. The Lion and the Mouse

by Jerry Pinkney

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

16. Not All Princesses Dress in Pink

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

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

17. The Boy and the Whale

by Mordicai Gerstein

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

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

by Duncan Tonatiuh

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

19. Drum Dream Girl

by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Rafael López

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

20. Infinity and Me

by Kate Hosford, illustrated by Gabi Swiatkowska

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

21. On a Beam of Light

by Jennifer Berne, illustrated by Vladimir Radunsky

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

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

by Deborah Heiligman, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

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

23. Wild About Books

by Judi Sierra, illustrated by Marc Brown

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

24. Diary of a Wombat

by Jackie French, illustrated by Bruce Whatley

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

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

by Kadir Nelson

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

26. Alligator Pie written

by Dennis Lee, illustrated by Frank Newfeld

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

27. Library Lion

by Michelle Knudson, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes

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

28. Stellaluna

by Janell Cannon

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

29. Magic School Bus In the Time of the Dinosaurs

by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen

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

30. Magic Treehouse #1 Dinosaurs Before Dark

by Mary Pope Osborne

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

31. Winnie the Pooh

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

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

32. Amelia Bedelia

by Peggy Parish, illustrated by Fritz Siebel

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

33. Amazing Grace

by Mary Hoffman, illustrated by Caroline Binch

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

34. The Scar

by Charlotte Moundlic and illustrated by Olivier Tallec

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

35. Balloons over Broadway

by Melissa Sweet

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

36. Pop! The Invention of Bubble Gum

by Meghan McCarthy

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

37. The Boo-Boos That Changed the World

by Barry Wittenstein and illustrated by Chris Hsu

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

38. Boys of Steel: The Creators of Superman

by Marc Tyler Nobleman, illustrated by Ross MacDonald

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

39. Clementine

by Sara Pennypacker, illustrated by Marla Frazee

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

40. Great Joy

by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline

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

41. The Miniature World of Marvin and James

by Elise Broach, illustrated by Kelly Murphy

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

42. Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus

by Barbara Park

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

43. Dory Fantasmagory

by Abby Hanlon

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

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

by Lenore Look and illustrated by LeUyen Pham

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

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

by Dan Santat

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

46. Hey Wall

by Susan Verde and illustrated by John Parra

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

47. A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars

by Seth Fishman and illustrated by Isabel Greenberg

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

by Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead and illustrated by Nicholas Gannon

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

49. A Different Pond

by Bao Phi, illustrated by Thi Bui

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

by Cynthia Rylant and illustrated by Brendan Wenzel

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

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Best Books for 2nd Graders

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

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The 20 Best Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

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

20 Awesome 2nd Grade Chapter Books

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

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

I know your second graders will love these great stories! 

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

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

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

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

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

Reading Level:

• Guided Reading: M

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

2. Katie Woo & Friends by Fran Manushkin

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

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

• Below-level
• Guided Reading: H

3. My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Styles Gannett

My Father’s Dragon  is a chapter book about Elmer, who runs away to rescue a baby dragon. With vibrant details and some crazy adventures, this book captures the imagination of young readers and takes them along on Elmer’s journey.

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

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

• Guided Reading: N

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Guided Reading: K

5. The Littles by John Peterson

Imagine there were tiny people living in your house without you even knowing it. They used your things, borrowed your scraps, and made themselves right at home despite the numerous dangers the typical house presents when you’re tiny. That is the plot of  The Littles .

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

Considered by many to be a must-read classic, I’ve included it on my list because it is the first of a whole series of books about this miniature family. As you can probably tell, I love it when there’s a whole chapter book series because it means I’ve opened a whole new book list for second-grade students just by introducing them to this one novel.

Get the No Prep Novel Study: The Littles Novel Study

6. Hi! Fly Guy by Tedd Arnold

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

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

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

• Guided Reading: I

7. Nate the Great by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Guided Reading: J

9. Mercy Watson to the Rescue by Kate DiCamillo

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

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

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

10. Ivy & Bean by Annie Barrows & Sophie Blackall

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Guided Reading: L

12. Frog and Toad are Friends by Arnold Lobel

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

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

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

13. Super Narwhal & Jelly Jolt by Ben Clanton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown

After being flattened by a bulletin board, Stanley wakes up to discover he is FLAT! While this predicament has its downsides, the positive is he can be rolled up, easily mailed anywhere, and even used as a kite on a windy day. His situation also makes him a hero when he thwarts some art thieves.

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

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

Get the No Prep Book Study:   Flat Stanley Book Study

16. Horrible Harry in Room 2B by Suzy Klein

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Dog Man by Dav Pilkey

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

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

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

• Guided Reading: P

19. The Real Slam Dunk by Charisse K. Richardson

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

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

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

20. Gooney Bird Green e by Lois Lowry

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

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

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

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

Ready to Plan Your 2nd Grade Novel Study?

Now that you’re here, grab your favorite chapter books for 2nd graders and my free novel study planning roadmap to get step-by-step support to plan a high-quality literature unit for your second-grade students whether you’re in the classroom or homeschooling.

Whether you’re a planning your first novel study or just looking for new ideas for using chapter books to teach reading, you’ll love this great tool.

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

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

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

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26 Best Chapter Books to Read with Your Second Graders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In This Post

What Should My 2nd Graders Be Reading?

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

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

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

What Are Some Good Books for Second Graders to Read?

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

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

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

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

26 Best 2nd Grade Books

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

Henry Huggins  by Beverly Cleary

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

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

Ramona Quimby  by Beverly Cleary

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

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

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

The Magic Tree House Series  by Mary Pope Osborne

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

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

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

Little House on the Prairie Series  by Laura Ingalls Wilder

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

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

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

The Dead Sea Squirrels Series  by Mike Nawrocki

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

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

Amelia Bedelia Series  by Peggy Parish and Herman Parish

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Mercy Watson Series  by Kate DiCamillo 

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

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

Encyclopedia Brown Series  by Donald J. Sobol

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

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

The Boxcar Children  by Gertrude Warner

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

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

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

The One and Only Ivan  by Katherine Applegate

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

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

Grandma’s Attic Treasury  by Arleta Richardson

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

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

The Wild Robot Series  by Peter Brown

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

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

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

The Secret Zoo  by Bryan Chick

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

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

Charlotte’s Web  by E.B. White 

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

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

The Mouse the Motorcycle  by Beverly Cleary

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

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

The Green Ember Series  by S.D. Smith

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

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

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

Tumtum and Nutmeg  by Emily Bearn

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

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

Mrs. Piggle Wiggle  by Betty MacDonald

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

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

The Family Under the Bridge  by Natalie Savage Carlson

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

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

Betsy-Tacy  by Maud Hart Lovelace

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

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

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

The Penderwicks  by Jeanne Birdsall

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

The Cul-de-sac Kids  Collection by Beverly Lewis

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

The Sugar Creek Gang Series  by Paul Hutchens

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

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

The Last Chance Detectives  by multiple authors

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

Glimmer Girls Series  by Natalie Grant

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

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

The 2nd Grade Book List

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

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

More Books for Kids

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

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

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50 Best 2nd Grade Books for Summer Reading

This post may contain affiliate links.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SHOP THIS LIST

2nd Grade Books for Summer Reading

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If your 2nd grader loves  REALISTIC stories, try:

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

If your second grader likes NONFICTION, read:

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

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

Summer Reading Bingo

Summer Reading Printable Activities for Kids

Good Book Series for Kids in 2nd Grade

Summer Reading Lists for Kids

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

31 BEST Chapter Books for Second Graders

Last Updated on December 1, 2023 by Louisa

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

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

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

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

31 of the BEST Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

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

1. Magic Tree House Series – Mary Pope Osborne

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

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

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

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

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

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

View it on:

2. The Flat Stanley Collection – Jeff Brown

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

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

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

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

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

3. The Invisible String – Patrice Karst

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

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

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

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

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

4. Dog Man: Grime And Punishment – Dav Pilkey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. The Danger Gang – Tom Fletcher

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

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

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

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

7. The Diary Of A Wimpy Kid – Jeff Kinney

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

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

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

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

8. Gangsta Granny – David Walliams

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

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

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

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

9. Fancy Nancy Series – Jane O’Connor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Yasmin Series – Saadia Faruqi

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

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

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

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

13. A Bear Called Paddington – Michael Bond

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

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

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

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

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

Related post: Books about Food for Children

14. The Zack Files – Dan Greenburg

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

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

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

A big hit with kids aged 7 and above.

15. Stuart Little – E.B. White

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Ivy And Bean – Annie Barrows

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

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

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

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

18. Frog And Toad Are Friends – Arnold Lobel

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

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

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

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

19. Hi! Fly Guy – Tedd Arnold

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

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

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

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

20. Katie Woo And Friends – Fran Manushkin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. Henry and Mudge – Cynthia Rylant

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

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

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

24. Mercy Watson Series – Kate Dicamillo

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

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

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

25. Cam Jansen Series – David A. Adler

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

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

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

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

26. Junie B Jones Series – Barbara Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nate also teaches problem-solving by using logical thinking. 

28. Gooney Bird Greene – Lois Lowry

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

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

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

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

29. Amelia Bedelia – Peggy Parish

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

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

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

30. Diary of an Ice Princess Series – Christina Soontornvat

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

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

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

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

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

31. Rainbow Magic – Orchard Books

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

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

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

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

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

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Final Word on Best Chapter Books for Second Graders

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

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

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

About Louisa Smith

Editor/Founder - Epic Book Society

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

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

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30 Chapter Books Second Graders Love

Get them hooked on these quality books.

Picking chapter books for second graders may seem like a daunting task. After all, second grade is an important time in reading development, when the emphasis shifts from basic decoding to reading for meaning. Good chapter books support students’ fluency and comprehension skills, all while setting them up to become lifelong readers. That’s a high bar for a book! But these books deliver. We’ve created this list of chapter books for second graders with diverse characters, heartwarming stories, and a mix of magic and adventure to engage early readers and keep them coming back for more.

1. Yasmin series by Saadia Faruqi

Yasmin is a smart and imaginative Pakistani American girl who shares adventures with her parents and grandparents. In four short, easy-to-read chapters, she comes up with creative solutions to the problems in her life. Filled with engaging stories about the joys and frustrations of being a kid, this one is a gem for second graders.

Buy it: Yasmin series at Amazon

2. Toys Go Out series by Emily Jenkins

Doesn’t every kid wonder what it would be like if our toys and stuffed animals came to life? This funny, endearing story of three special toys explores that magical idea and is a delight for second graders who are ready to explore longer chapter books. With accessible and entertaining writing, this series is one you and your students won’t want to miss.

Buy it: Toys Go Out series at Amazon

3. Little Bear series by Else Holmelund Minarik

Little Bear is a beloved character who is sure to charm new readers. The curious and sweet bear cub goes on adventures with his animal friends but sometimes needs help and guidance from Mother Bear. Imaginative stories and delightful illustrations enhance this classic story, and the simple word choice makes it a great selection for second graders new to chapter books.

Buy it: Little Bear series at Amazon

4. Alvin Ho series by Lenore Look

Alvin Ho is an Asian American second grader with a long list of debilitating fears, the biggest one being speaking at school. With strong characters and emotional honesty, this series tackles anxiety with humor and grace. Alvin’s trials with his siblings and friends at school will appeal to reluctant readers.

Buy it:  Alvin Ho series  at Amazon

5. Mercy Watson series by Kate DiCamillo

Mercy is an endearing pet pig who loves hot buttered toast more than anything. Her taste for toast and other delectable treats gets her and her owners into trouble. Extraordinary author Kate DiCamillo creates a cast of intriguing characters who go on outlandish adventures, with Mercy at the center. Humorous and lighthearted, these chapter books are perfect for beginning readers.

Buy it: Mercy Watson series at Amazon

6. The Princess in Black series by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale

The brave Princess in Black is a superhero in secret—she has to hide her identity from the nosy duchess. Full of imagination and intrigue, this series is so much fun. These stories are also the perfect length for readers just getting comfortable with longer books, and kids will love the fresh take on princesses and superheroes.

Buy it: The Princess in Black series at Amazon

7. Sadiq series by Siman Nuurali

Sadiq is a Somali American third grader who navigates real-life challenges of friendship, family, and school. In this appealing series, Sadiq participates in many new activities with his friends, while dealing with being left out and feeling like he’s not good enough. This series showcases a diverse community while portraying the everyday experiences of being a kid.

Buy it: Sadiq series at Amazon

8. Gooney Bird Greene series by Lois Lowry

Celebrated author Lois Lowry introduces us to an unforgettable new character: Gooney Bird Greene. As the new student in her class, she causes quite a stir when she shows up wearing pajamas and cowboy boots. Through her wild imagination, Gooney teaches us the art of storytelling. Readers will relish this one-of-a-kind chapter book series.

Buy it: Gooney Bird Greene series at Amazon

9. Stink series by Megan McDonald

In this spin-off of the popular Judy Moody series, Judy’s brother Stink cannot stand being the shortest kid and does everything he can to get taller. Filled with humor and heart, these chapter books for second graders will entertain and give them something to relate to.

Buy it: Stink series at Amazon

10. Ralph Mouse series by Beverly Cleary

Some authors just don’t go out of style and Beverly Cleary is one of them. In this delightfully entertaining story, Ralph is a young mouse who lives in an old inn and finds a human friend with a toy motorcycle he can’t wait to ride. The fantastical tale of the friendship between a boy and a mouse is a perfect introduction to Cleary’s imaginative writing and compelling prose and is sure to hook many second grade readers.

Buy it: Ralph Mouse series at Amazon

11. Absolutely Alfie series by Sally Warner

Alfie is a strong and charismatic 7-year-old, sister to the main character of the popular Ellray Jakes series. In each story, she navigates how to solve realistic conflicts with her friends and family. Relatable, funny, and honest, this series is a great choice for more advanced readers looking for longer chapter books.

Buy it: Absolutely Alfie series at Amazon

12. Rainbow Magic series by Daisy Meadows

Fairies, rainbows, and unicorns—what’s not to love? The fantastical series is perfect for independent readers who want to get lost in the magical world of books, maybe for the first time. With over 200 books in the series to choose from, readers can immerse themselves in the mystical world of fairies again and again.

Buy it: Rainbow Magic series at Amazon

13. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

The classic story of Charlotte’s Web is one of our all-time favorite chapter books for second graders. Fern is a young girl who befriends a special pig named Wilbur on her uncle’s farm. Can one precocious spider save the life of a pig? Heart-wrenching and profoundly beautiful, this story will evoke compassion and wonder in its readers.

Buy it: Charlotte’s Web at Amazon

14. Juana & Lucas series by Juana Medina

Juana is a spunky girl who lives in Bogota, Colombia, with her dog and best friend Lucas. She loves many things about school and life in her city but dreads learning English—that is until her abuelo promises to take her on a special adventure to the United States if she can do it. Author Juana Medina weaves in rich illustrations and Spanish words throughout the story, bringing this relatable chapter book to life.

Buy it: Juana & Lucas series at Amazon

15. Henry and Mudge series by Cynthia Rylant

Henry is lonely without a sibling or friends on his block, so he asks his parents for a dog. From the moment Henry meets his new dog Mudge, the two of them are inseparable. This sweet series is perfect for readers who are just ready to explore chapter books. The sentences are simple but the characters are full of heart. Kids will enjoy the friendship between a boy and his dog and the many adventures they take together.

Buy it: Henry and Mudge series at Amazon

16. The Bad Guys series by Aaron Blabey

Hilarious and eye-catching, these graphic novels are the perfect choice for independent readers who aren’t quite ready for longer books. The quick, fun series hits the mark with silly jokes and entertaining adventures that will engage even the most reluctant readers.

Buy it: The Bad Guys series at Amazon

17. Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne

This wildly popular series had to make our list. Siblings Jack and Annie discover a tree house full of books that sends them back in time. Full of adventure, suspense, and magic, these chapter books for second graders are an excellent choice for your classroom. We’ve seen so many new readers get hooked on them, and with 38 books in the series, your students can time-travel and explore history all they want.

Buy it: Magic Tree House series at Amazon

18. The Cobble Street Cousins series by Cynthia Rylant

Cynthia Rylant’s charming series tells the story of three cousins who start a cookie business, write a newspaper, and get involved in all sorts of other creative endeavors. Readers will enjoy the appealing characters and lighthearted stories in these second grade chapter books that are reminiscent of an older, simpler time.

Buy it: The Cobble Street Cousins series at Amazon

19. Press Start! series by Thomas Flintham

A great read for beginning readers who also love video games. Telling the story of characters embarking on video game adventures, this graphic novel series makes the reader feel like they are transported into the game. Eye-catching illustrations and simple yet compelling text will keep kids coming back for more.

Buy it: Press Start! series at Amazon

20. Diary of an Ice Princess series by Christina Soontornvat

Princess and Windtamer Lina has special powers but still wants to go to school with “groundlings” and her best friend, Claudia. Fans of Frozen will love these tales full of magic and adventure, which also grapple with the desire to fit in and be just like everyone else. Attractive pink and black illustrations and honest diary entries will appeal to kids who are looking for quick, enjoyable reads.

Buy it: Diary of an Ice Princess series at Amazon

21. King & Kayla series by Dori Hillestad Butler

Kayla’s dog King narrates this charming and entertaining series. Funny, sweet, and compelling, it’s a must-have for readers who are becoming more independent. These transitional chapter books are great for supporting fluency while engaging readers.

Buy it: King & Kayla series at Amazon

22. Zoey and Sassafras series by Asia Citro

Filled with investigative science and a touch of magic, Zoey and Sassafras is an informative and engaging chapter book series. Equipped with a scientific journal and her “thinking goggles,” Zoey comes up with hypotheses to solve problems with the help of her trusty sidekick cat, Sassafras. The unique combination of scientific inquiry and storytelling makes this a perfect choice for any reader who wants to read to learn and have fun too.

Buy it: Zoey and Sassafras series at Amazon

23. Duck and Moose series by Kirk Reedstrom

New neighbors Duck and Moose happen to be polar opposites, but can they reconcile their differences and become best pals? This two-book series of chapter books for second graders is a hilarious must-read.

Buy it: Duck and Moose series at Amazon

24. Heidi Heckelbeck series by Wanda Coven

After being homeschooled, Heidi is nervous about going to school for the first time. It turns out that second grade is not for the faint of heart. Can she find friends while dealing with bullies and new routines? Heidi discovers a secret that will help her do just that. This prolific series has larger print and short chapters, making it a great fit for new readers.

Buy it: Heidi Heckelbeck series at Amazon

25. Peter & Ernesto series by Graham Annable

Peter is a homebody and Ernesto is an adventurer, but they are also best friends. Cute as can be with simple yet engaging stories and pictures, these chapter books for second graders are a great introduction to graphic novels for beginning, eager readers.

Buy it: Peter & Ernesto series at Amazon

26. Miles Lewis series by Kelly Starling Lyons

Miles loves science and is very competitive, but his anxiety spikes when he has to go ice skating for the first time with his 4th grade class. With a strong focus on friend and family relationships, this series is both relatable and entertaining. Bonus: It’s by the same author as Jada Jones, which we also recommend !

Buy it: Miles Lewis series at Amazon

27. José and El Perro series by Susan Rose and Silvia López

José finally gets the dog he’s always wanted, but it turns out the dog doesn’t understand commands in Spanish. To get to know each other, they have to learn each other’s languages. These books are perfect for readers building confidence and stamina while also introducing some Spanish vocabulary.

Buy it: José and El Perro series at Amazon

28. Mia Mayhem series by Kara West

Mia’s life gets turned upside down when she discovers she’s a superhero. She’s pretty sure she’s up for the task, as long as she can figure out how to balance her new identity with being a regular kid. Relatable, fun, and readable, this 13-book series is just right for second graders.

Buy it: Mia Mayhem series at Amazon

29. Pedro series by Fran Manushkin

In this spin-off of the Katie Woo series, Katie’s friend Pedro loves playing sports and going on adventures, while also putting up with his younger brother.

Buy it: Pedro series at Amazon

30. Orris and Timble: The Beginning by Kate DiCamillo

We can’t wait for Kate DiCamillo’s upcoming release. Orris, the rat, and Timble, the owl, strike up an unusual and inspiring friendship. This is part one of a trilogy that is sure to captivate all of our hearts.

Buy it: Orris and Timble at Amazon

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Plus, check out these second grade classroom ideas for more inspiration., you might also like.

28 Chapter Books To Hook Third Graders

Engage and inspire young readers with these unforgettable titles. Continue Reading

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Best Books for Second Graders

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TRANSITIONAL CHAPTER BOOKS

Billy and Rose might like different things and disagree at times, but they are true friends who support each other through life’s little ups and downs. Four short chapters follow their friendship through the seasons. Charming colored illustrations break up the delightful text, making this a very approachable transitional chapter book for newer readers.

Buy It Here

This is an adorable new series filled with humor, charming illustrations, and characters that show kindness and compassion. With four short chapters to build readers’ confidence, the story follows best friends Bear and Bird through several amusing mishaps that make this book a true delight.

This unforgettable easy reader has withstood the test of time and is still a go-to for many classroom teachers. The story of a lonely boy who finds friendship with a large dog is relatable and many children will enjoy reading about the twosome’s many adventures together.  Lexile: 460L/  Fountas & Pinnell: J

Three classic stories of a city pig who moves to the country are combined in this new release that also includes drawing instructions and a writing prompt. The original Poppleton stories were written decades ago, but there is a quiet charm to these stories that make them feel timeless. Lexile: 460L/ Fountas & Pinnell: J

Kayla excitedly makes dog treats for her friend’s new puppy, but when three go missing, she suspects her own pet, King. Told from King’s point of view, he and Kayla work together to find the real culprit. Many readers will enjoy following the charming characters as they find clues and solve mysteries. Lexile: 440L / Fountas & Pinnell: L

While opposites in many ways, Cornbread and Poppy are the best of friends. When carefree Poppy doesn’t collect enough food for the winter, loyal Cornbread agrees to venture up the mysterious mountain outside their village to harvest food. Full of charming illustrations, this delightful friendship story has the perfect amount of drama and cuteness that kept my daughter engaged and excited to read. Guided Reading Level: L

Award-winning author Cece Bell’s quirky sense of humor fills the pages of this comical easy reader series starring two unusual best friends. Though Rabbit and Robot are both excited for their first sleepover, they quickly discover that they each have strong opinions on the activities for the night and must find a way to navigate the complexities of friendship. Lexile: 490L/ Fountas & Pinnell: L

Large colorful pictures accompany short chapters that share the adventures of a girl and her large brown dog.  Animal lovers will particularly enjoy following along as Barkus meets his new family, sneaks into school, celebrates his birthday, and makes a new friend. Guided Reading Level: L

Kate DiCamillo and Chris Van Dusen have made quite a name for themselves in the world of children’s literature and their collaboration on the Mercy Watson series is truly outstanding. I have yet to meet someone who doesn’t love this charismatic porcine. The irresistible illustrations immediately draw the reader in and the engaging text is such a joy to read. Lexile: 450L/ Fountas & Pinnell: L

Filled with stunning photography, National Geographic has created an easy reader series that helps children build important literacy skills while also learning about the world around them. Each level contains different nonfiction elements such as table of contents, headings, captions, and sometimes diagrams. Learn more about the National Geographic Easy Reader Series HERE .

CHAPTER BOOKS

When a mysterious tree house appears in Jack and Annie’s backyard, they can’t resist exploring it. They quickly learn the tree house is a time machine that transports them back to the age of the dinosaurs. This entertaining series is a perfect mix of history and fantasy wrapped into an adventure story. Lexile: 510L / Fountas & Pinnell: M

Sophie Mouse is excited for her first day of school, but is shocked with a scary snake walks into her classroom. In this gentle tale, she learns look beyond appearances and make a new friend. Sophie is a delightful character and many children will love reading about her charming exploits. Lexile 600/ Guided Reading Level N

This hilarious new series had both my daughter and I giggling. The Chin family has recently adopted what they think is an adorable chihuahua puppy, but Ember believes he is an evil overlord destined to rule the world. Black and white illustrations paired with comical text follow Ember on his journey of world domination as he faces his greatest nemesis yet, a sinister squirrel.

 Filled with an adventurous story line starring a group of diverse children who are charged with connecting with and training dangerous dragons with special talents, this is a go-to for reluctant readers. Black and white pictures are paired with large print making this early chapter book series appear less intimidating to young readers. Lexile: 510L

Eva is a fashionable young owl who is excited to plan her school’s first ever treetop festival. She initially tries to do all the work herself, but learns the value in collaborating with friends. The diary format mixed with large, colorful pictures, makes this transitional chapter book very accessible to young readers. With tons of visual appeal, a plucky protagonist, and amusing wordplay, it’s no wonder this series is so popular. Lexile: 560L

This popular series stars Princess Magnolia who may appear poised and proper, but she harbors a secret identity as the Princess in Black. This daring girl bravely faces evil-doers and readers will relish in reading about the self-reliant heroine. Color illustrations break up the longer text making this chapter book more approachable for newly independent readers. Lexile: 510L/ Fountas & Pinnell: L

From the Publisher

So what if Stuey isn’t the world’s best reader, is only allowed to trick or treat around one block, doesn’t get to play on his soccer dream team, and has to put up with the most annoying girl on the planet. Somehow Stuey always makes life work and when he puts his mind to it, he can survive anything–even second grade. This hilarious collection of linked short stories, interspersed with sprightly line drawings, marks an impressive chapter book debut.

Lexile: 410L/  Fountas & Pinnell: M

In the futuristic world of 2120, Zack is leaving his home planet of Earth to start school on the planet of Nebulon. There are very few science fiction stories for newly independent readers and with futuristic gadgets combined with a relatable story of the anxieties associated with moving, many children will be excited to explore this series. Lexile: 580L /  Fountas & Pinnell: M

Introducing The Critter Club! Amy and her friends solve a canine caper in this start to a pet-friendly illustrated chapter book series. It’s Spring Break in Santa Vista, and everyone has big plans…everyone except for Amy, that is! As her best friends head out of town on exciting adventures, Amy resigns herself to helping out at her mom’s vet clinic. At least she’ll be around cute animals! But when Santa Vista’s cold and elusive millionaire, Marge Sullivan, brings her puppy Rufus for a check-up, Amy encounters an unexpected mystery. After her friends return home, the girls get to the bottom of what happened to Rufus—and discover a way to help other lost and lonely animals in their town. With easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, The Critter Club chapter books are perfect for beginning readers.

Lexile: 490L

S tink Moody is already the shortest kid in the entire second grade and he is now convinced that he is shrinking. This humorous book follows him as shares comical exploits with his sister, Judy, and learns about James Madison, the shortest president. Lexile: 540L/ Guided Reading Level: M/ Fountas & Pinnell: M

New neighbors Ivy and Bean form an unlikely friendship when they bond over acts of mischief. It’s hard not to love this lively duo and giggle over their humorous hijinks.  Lexile: 580L / Guided Reading Level: M

It’s difficult to find a good mystery for young children and this series was always a huge hit with my students. In the first installment of this popular series, three friends are looking forward to getting their book signed by their favorite author, but when he never shows up, they try to discover what happened to him. Lexile: 510L / Fountas & Pinnell: N

We also love Ron Roy’s other series: The Calendar Mysteries  and The Capital Mysteries .

Azmina has just moved to her new house when she feels a sudden pull into the forest where she is transported to a magical land and transformed into a dragon. There, she meets two other girls who band together to save the enchanted land from an evil force. This fantastical friendship story is sure to find an audience with many! Lexile: 570

Animal lovers will adore this heartwarming series about a family who fosters puppies while they are waiting to be adopted.

In the first book, Goldie,  Charles and Lizzie try to convince their parents to get a pet and the family agrees to try fostering to see if they are ready for pet ownership. Each subsequent book introduces readers to a new dog. These books really couldn’t be cuter!  Lexile: 590L/ Fountas & Pinnell: M

Archie Morningstar learns a big family secret and helps save the universe. All before breakfast!  It’s not every day a regular kid like Archie gets to wake up at midnight. But today is Take Your Kid to Work Day, and Archie is finally allowed to ride along in his dad’s taxi cab. He has been waiting eight years, eight months, and eight days for this moment to arrive.  But he’s about to discover his dad is no ordinary cab driver…In fact, he drives an intergalactic space taxi! All night long, he shuttles aliens from one corner of the universe to another. And being a space taxi copilot is no easy task: Archie must steer them into wormholes, keep them from crashing into planets, deal with a very unusual cat…and save the universe from an evil mastermind!

Space Taxi marks the debut of a brand new chapter book series from New York Times bestselling author Wendy Mass and teacher Michael Brawer, filled with humor, adventure, and plenty of science to impress your friends and teachers!

Fountas and Pinnell O

Danger! Action! Trouble! Adventure! Introducing The DATA Set, a brand-new chapter book series for young readers. What would happen if your next-door neighbor were a mad scientist? Gabe, Laura, and Cesar live on a quiet cul-de-sac. They are the whiz kids of Newtonburg Elementary and each specializes in their own subject. In fact, everyone in town lovingly refers to them as the Data Set. However, their quiet days of learning take a sudden turn for the exciting when they meet Dr. Gustav Bunsen—a mad scientist who throws the kids into a wild spiral of adventures. When Dr. Bunsen’s latest invention, a growth ray, hits several tiny animal toys, the mini beasts don’t just grow, they come to life! The DATA Set love their new tiny pets…until they continue to grow. Now there’s an actual elephant in the room—not to mention a chimp, a giraffe, and a dinosaur. When the beasts wander off, it’s up to the DATA Set to track them down. But will they catch the mini beasts before they grow big enough to start trouble in town? With easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, The DATA Set chapter books are perfect for beginning readers!

Lexile: 520L/  Fountas & Pinnell: P

Ahoy, mateys! Set sail for fun and adventure on a pirate ship full of puppies! Wally is a pup with a nose for adventure. So when he stumbles onto a ragtag group of puppies who sail the seven seas, he knows he has to join the fun! But if pirates are supposed to be gruff and tough, this furry little guy isn’t exactly first-mate material. Does he have what it takes to become a full-fledged puppy pirate? Two perennial kid favorites–dogs and pirates–combine in this new chapter-book series perfect for fans of the Rainbow Magic series and all things piratey!

Lexile: 540L/  Fountas & Pinnell: M

As an exuberant little sister with a wild imagination, Dory is often ignored by her two older siblings. The lively text and illustrations follow Dory through her many comical antics attempting to get the attention of her family.   Lexile 650

Fantasy lovers will love getting lost in the magical realm of Wrenly. When the queen loses a beloved necklace, eight-year-old Prince Lucas joins his friend Clara on a quest to visit various territories filled with mythical creatures including dragons, fairies, trolls, mermaids, and witches to find the special jewel.  

Lexile 570/ Fountas & Pinnell N

Zoey dreams of being a scientist like her mom and when she discovers she is able to see magical creatures, she gets a chance to put her scientific knowledge to work sooner than she thought. Each story in this outstanding series follows Zoey and her cat Sassafras as they use science to help magical creatures solve their problems.   Lexile: 640L / Guided Reading Level: N

At last, it’s Jasper John Dooley’s turn to be Star of the Week at school. Unfortunately, nothing turns out as planned. His Show and Tell falls flat. A new baby at his friend Ori’s house steals his spotlight. And worst of all, the new baby has only-child Jasper wondering if his own family is too small. When Jasper decides to build himself a brother (named Earl) out of wood, Earl’s schoolyard shenanigans send Jasper to the principal’s office! But with a little help from family and friends, things turn around for Jasper. And by the time Friday arrives, he is once again sure that he has what it takes to be a star. Jasper John Dooley: Star of the Week is the first in a series of chapter books featuring a charismatic and funny central character. An only child with active, loving parents (and a most impressive lint collection), Jasper John Dooley is a true original.

 Lexile: 570L

This entertaining series is perfect for reluctant readers or any child who loves to learn about animals. Facts about some of the world’s most dangerous animals are presented with photographs and lifelike illustrations. The animals are paired against each other and using the facts presented on the creatures’ size, intellect, and ability, children try to predict the outcome of the showdown. Lexile: 620L / Fountas & Pinnell: P

When Billy Miller has a mishap at the statue of the Jolly Green Giant at the end of summer vacation, he ends up with a big lump on his head. What a way to start second grade, with a lump on your head! As the year goes by, though, Billy figures out how to navigate elementary school, how to appreciate his little sister, and how to be a more grown up and responsible member of the family and a help to his busy working mom and stay-at-home dad. Newbery Honor author and Caldecott Medalist Kevin Henkes delivers a short, satisfying, laugh-out-loud-funny school and family story that features a diorama homework assignment, a school poetry slam, cancelled sleepovers, and epic sibling temper tantrums. This is a perfect short novel for the early elementary grades.

A 2014 Newbery Honor Book/ A New York Times Bestseller

Lexile: 620L

Bea Garcia draws everything all the time – she’s an artist! But then her first and only best friend, Yvonne, moves to Australia. Bea has to draw what she wishes didn’t happen – her best friend waving good-bye. What could be worse? What’s worse is the boy who moves in next door. He is not like Yvonne at all – he’s a monster! Bert burps, buzzes, and calls Bea names. He ruins everything and he even tries to steal her book of drawings! Luckily Bea knows that her pencil has power and figures out just what to draw to put that monster in his place. Funny, fresh, and imaginative, this quirky tale of friendship and family will inspire readers to pick up a pencil and tell their own lives in pictures.

Lexile: 670L

Comic book lovers will find a kindred spirit in Eugene McGillicudy. Full of imagination, Eugene uses his superhero alter ego, Captain Awesome, to navigate the ins and outs of a new school while also tracking down a missing pet hamster. Humor abounds in this rollicking story. 

Lola Levine is a bicultural second-grader who loves playing soccer, writing in her diary, and spending time with her family and best friend, Josh. When she accidentally hurts another classmate during a soccer game, she is teased for being mean. Luckily, Lola’s supportive family helps her through this tough time. With well-developed characters and a realistic school scenario, many children will be attracted to this engaging series. Fountas & Pinnell: M

GRAPHIC NOVELS:

Colorful illustrations match the cheerful feel of these two best friends who can do anything together! With their mantras of “We can do hard things” and “Progress not perfection,” these two quirky characters can take on the world and then some as they zoom around the universe experiencing one stellar adventure after another.  

Once again, the two-time Geisel Award winning author and illustrator Corey R. Tabor works his magic with a new easy reader series filled with humor and heart. Sir Ladybug and his two loyal companions, a snail and a roly-poly bug, travel the countryside helping any insect in need. With plenty of amusing dialogue and themes of teamwork and resilience, there is a lot to enjoy about this new series!

This seriously silly story has been on repeat at our house. Both my 7 year-old daughter and 10 year-old son can’t get enough of the hilarious hijinks of Cranky Chicken! In the classic case of opposites attracting, a friendly outgoing worm befriends a very grumpy chicken. It is so downright entertaining to watch their friendship bloom over three comical chapters.

We are also enjoy the sequel Cranky Chicken: Party Animals.

We love Ben Clanton’s picture books Rot, The Cutest in the World and Rot, the Bravest in the World, so we were thrilled to see a  new chapter book starring this lovable character. This silly story about the sibling rivalry between two mutant potatoes is absolutely hilarious. Filled with funny puns, this book is spudtacular!

Our family has enjoyed everything that Jonathon Stutzman and Heather Fox have created and Fitz and Cleo is no exception. When sibling ghosts Fitz and Cleo discover a cat in their attic, hilarious hijinks ensue as they experience the trials and tribulations of owning a pet. The illustrations could not be cuter, while the text is laugh-out-loud funny!

My son could not love this book more! Sir Simon, a ghost with a big personality, teams up with his friend, Chester, a boy with a big imagination, to solve mysteries around their house. Cale Atkinson’s expressive illustrations are absolutely hysterical and my son loved the droll text so much that he started quoting funny lines from the book. This is such a fun one with tons of kid appeal! Lexile: 530

  Buy It Here

This hysterical new series stars a cat and his sidekick who form a club to teach a class of young frogs how to make a comic. While it is completely zany, it is also packed with kid appeal and helpful advice about the creative process.

The parent advising the club is initially shocked and disappointed with some of the ridiculous story lines the students come up with, but he comes to understand that kids need a little freedom to create and explore topics that interest them. With a variety of comic formats and inspirational ideas, I have no doubt that this humorous graphic novel will motivate budding writers to pick up their own pencils and get writing!

My son could not put this book down and it had our entire family laughing out lou

Gabby Gomez loves chewing gum so much she eventually turns into it! She uses her new sticky form to transform herself into a superhero who helps those in need. This action-packed story is full of humor and a ton of fun!    Lexile: 580

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The Best Books for Second Graders

30 fun and engaging books, from silly to informative, hand-picked for your second grader.

By Seamus Condron

Table of Contents

Classic tales reimagined, science and nature books, mystery and detective stories, books on friendship and relationships, historical fiction, books celebrating diversity and inclusion, books by authors of color, books on building character and ethics, 30 of the best books for second graders.

Books hold within them the power to transport us to other worlds, different times in history, and experiences that can change our lives forever. They are not just a source of entertainment but also a tool for education, a catalyst for social and emotional growth, and a window into the lives of others.

Let this guide be your trusted companion as you embark on your literary journey with your child. It offers a carefully curated selection of books for second-grade students that entertain and enlighten , highlighting the beauty and complexity of our shared humanity and encouraging young minds to explore, question, and grow.

Below find a list of books that your child can read independently or with you!

• Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White This timeless tale teaches children about the value of friendship and the sometimes painful but essential concept of sacrifice. It’s a must-read that has heart and depth.
• The Boxcar Children Series by Gertrude Chandler Warner This engaging mystery series encourages problem-solving and teamwork, making it perfect for young detectives.
• Half Magic: Tales of Magic, Book 1 by Edward Eager This delightful story sparks children’s imaginations and teaches them the value of believing in themselves, even when things seem impossible.
• The Magic School Bus Series by Joanna Cole This series makes science fun and accessible, taking children on fantastical journeys to learn about everything from the human body to outer space.
• Space Rocks Stepped Reader by ABCmouse Space rocks is one of the many exciting leveled readers you can find in ABCmouse’s online library. Teaching kids all about asteroids and space rocks this fun space book is educational and exciting.

• The Lorax by Dr. Seuss This cautionary tale is an early introduction to environmental conservation, teaching children the importance of caring for the Earth.
• What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? by Steve Jenkins This book explores animal adaptations and encourages curiosity about the natural world, making it perfect for young animal lovers.
• Secrets of Droon Series by Tony Abbott This fantasy series introduces children to the concept of good vs. evil in a magical setting, making it an excellent introduction to the genre.
• Nate the Great by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat This series encourages logical thinking and observation, making it perfect for budding detectives
• Cam Jansen Series by David A. Adler This series promotes attention to detail and deductive reasoning, teaching children the basics of solving mysteries.
• Ramona the Pest by Beverly Cleary This story teaches children about empathy and understanding, helping them navigate the complexities of friendships and family relationships.
• A Bridge to the Friends’ Ship By ABCmouse Blast off with Amy and her out-of-this-world friends in this book about connection and teamwork.

• Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel This charming book explores the ups and downs of friendship through simple yet meaningful stories.
• The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister This beautifully illustrated book teaches the importance of sharing and kindness, making it a valuable lesson in friendship.
• Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborne This series combines history and adventure, taking children on time-traveling journeys to different eras and places.
• Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan This touching story explores family dynamics in a historical setting, teaching children about the importance of love and belonging.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Biography By ABCmouse Learn about this important historical figure in this easy-to-read biographical book. 

• The Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson by Bette Bao Lord This book teaches children the importance of role models and cultural assimilation in the context of historical events.
• Black Brother, Black Brother by Jewell Parker Rhodes This powerful story tackles racial prejudice and promotes inclusivity, making it a must-read for fostering empathy and understanding.
• The Blossoming Universe of Violet Diamond by Brenda Woods This book explores identity and the importance of family history, encouraging children to appreciate their unique backgrounds.
• Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña This award-winning book celebrates urban life and promotes empathy, teaching children the value of community and diversity.
• Misaki and Sofia Write a Letter by ABCmouse Learn about different cultures through the letters Misaki and Sofia write to and receive from their cousins. 

• Dragons in a Bag, Book 1 by Zetta Elliott This fantasy tale introduces children to magical elements rooted in African folklore, expanding their understanding of diverse cultures.
• Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio This inspiring story encourages political awareness and the importance of representation, making it perfect for future leaders.
• Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana MartinezNeal This beautifully illustrated book explores cultural identity and family history, encouraging children to appreciate their heritage.
• The Best of Iggy by Annie Barrows This humorous story explores the consequences of impulsive actions, teaching children about responsibility and decision-making.
• Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud This book promotes kindness and positive behavior, encouraging children to be good citizens.
• Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell This uplifting story teaches self-confidence and the importance of standing up for oneself, making it a must-read for building character.
• Delia’s Dull Day: An Incredibly Boring Story by Andy Myer In this story, children meet Delia, who thinks life is dull. Young readers learn that if Delia just shifts her mindset and pays more attention to the word around her, she’ll find amazing things–like pirates on the school bus!

Choosing the perfect books for second graders can be both exciting and challenging. The aim is to provide a well-rounded reading list that not only captivates but educates while reflecting our global community’s rich diversity. This guide is designed to be a helpful resource for parents and educators in this endeavor. We hope it serves as a stepping stone to a lifelong love of reading and learning for your young scholars.

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

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

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

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

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20 Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

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

Except math. They go their own pace for that!

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

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

And here are a few reading curriculums I recommend:

180 Days of Reading: Grade 2

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

Reading Better Together

Now on to mine and my kids' book recommendations!

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

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

Never Stop Dreaming by Susan Adler

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

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

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

The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman  

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

The Storm Book by Charlotte Zolotow

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

The Family Under The Bridge by Natalie Savage Carlson

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

The Water Princess by Susan Verde

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

Wish by Barbara O'Connor

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

Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai

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

The Unadoptables by Hana Tooke

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

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

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

The Enchanted Forest Chronicles by Patricia C. Wrede

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

The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

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

Dragonbreath #1 by Ursula Vernon

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

Lola Levine is Not Mean! by Monica Brown

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

Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things by Cynthia Voigt

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

How Not to Start Third Grade by Bart King

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

Trapped in a Video Game by Dustin Brady

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

The Boxcar Children Books 1-4 by Gertrude Chandler Warner

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

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

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

Charlotte's Web by E.B. White

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

The Secret Lake by Enid Blyton

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

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

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

The Bear and the Fern by Windy Lynch

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seedfolks by Paul Fleischman

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

The Gardener by Sarah Stewart

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

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

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

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

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

The Boy Who Never Gave Up by Stephen Curry

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

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures by Julia Finley Mosca

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

Pony Mysteries #1: Penny and Pepper by Bonnie Bryant

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

Second Grade, Here I Come! by Dori Butler

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

Pokémon Classic Chapter Book Collection by Tracey West

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover 99 books under $9 that build character.

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

Shop books for second graders below. You can find all books and activities at  The Teacher Store .

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25 Best Books To Read for 2nd Graders

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

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

Math & ELA | PreK To Grade 5

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Norman: One Amazing Goldfish by Kelly Bennett

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

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

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

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

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

4. Ten Ways to Hear Snow by Cathy Camper

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

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

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

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

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

6. Rainbow Magic Series by Daisy Meadows

Subject: sisterhood, goodness, price:$6.99.

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

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

Subject: friendship, adventure , price: $67.00.

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

8. Julian, Secret Agent by Ann Cameron

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

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

9. The Seven Treasure Hunts by Betsy Byars

Subject: responsibility, properly understanding the instructions.

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

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

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

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

11. Baloney and Friends series by Greg Pizzoli

Subject: bravery, friendship, price: $7.99 .

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

12. Peter & Ernesto Series by Graham Annable

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

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

13. Norma and Belly series by Mika Song

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

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

14. An Elephant in the Garden by Michael Morpurgo

Subject: humanity, animal care .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subject: sibling bond.

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

19. Gooney Bird Greene Series by Lois Lowry

Subject: attention seeking, fitting in, confidence.

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

20. James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl

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

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

21. Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey

Subject: community, family , price: $8.08.

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

22. Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary

Subject: sibling rivalries , price: $5.99.

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

23. Dory Fantasmagory Series by Abby Hanlon

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

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

24. Alvin Ho Series by Lenore Look

Subject: conquering fears , price: $6.99.

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

25. Junie B. Jones Series by Barbara Park

Subject: feisty, adventure , price: $4.00.

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

Let’s Start Reading!

Many fun, valuable, and simple comic and reading books for 2nd graders are available. You can easily introduce tough academic lessons like WWII and life value lessons like friendship, honesty, and kindness with books. So, refer to the best 25 books and help your 2nd grader pick the best ones to read.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the benefits of reading to 2nd graders.

2nd-grade reading is an important year for your child’s overall development. It helps improve the pronunciation of words and their implication in the real world. In addition, 2nd-grade reading will help your children understand the basic mechanism behind the English language and vocabulary. It also improves their grammatical and phonetic skills.

How can I increase or improve my child's interest in reading?

The best method to enhance your child’s interest in reading is leading by example. You should read more and include a variety of books in your home library. When your child sees you reading, this will automatically spark their curiosity and interest in reading. You can also take your child to the local library or book club to introduce them to different types of literature.

What objectives should children set while reading?

The main purpose of reading is to educate, entertain and explain information, which should be the goal. Reading is a practical and entertaining solution to develop your 2nd graders’ critical thinking skills. To expand their reading options, you can also look at e-book readers like Kindle and get online books for 2nd graders.

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Best Books for 2nd Graders on Epic

• June 8, 2022
• 7 minute read

Check out our picks for the best books for 2nd graders! 

As your kid reaches the second grade, this is the perfect time to diversify their library with more challenging reads. They get to build on the fundamentals they picked up from pre-k to first grade, and broaden their horizons and explore their interests with infinitely more choices. So settle in and check out the best books for second graders below. From audiobooks and early chapter books, to longer picture books and graphic novels, you’ll find something for your kid, with these picks both on and off our platform.

Books for 2nd Graders on Epic

Probably a narwhal.

Written by: Shelley Moore Thomas

Illustrated by: Jenn Harney

Who do you blame when your room is a mess? Why, a narwhal, of course! This is what a little girl does when confronted with a bedroom in dire need of cleaning. Blaming the situation on “a narwhal or something,” she gets a surprise when an actual narwhal shows up to defend himself from her spurious claim. What ensues is a hilarious debate as the two characters argue their points of view. Silly dialogue and illustrations make this picture book a ton of fun to read aloud. Plus your kid will learn some things about narwhal anatomy and get a lesson on personal responsibility to boot.

The Sorcerer’s Apprentice

Written by: Cyril Bavis

Illustrated by: Fabio Gambino

Chores can be tough on a kid, especially if you’re a curious young boy who also happens to be a sorcerer’s apprentice. There’s a lot to do! This is Tiernan’s predicament when the sorcerer leaves him in charge of the castle. At first he’s thrilled! But instead of practicing sorcery, the apprentice spends all his time on tasks like placing potion bottles on shelves, polishing cauldrons and mopping the castle floors. Can he practice his sorcery and do his chores at the same time without bringing disastrous results? The bold and colorful illustrations will create an immersive, magical experience for your young reader.

Frog and Toad Are Friends

By: Arnold Lobel

In this Read-To-Me version, “Frog and Toad Are Friends” is a book of five short heartwarming stories about best friends frog and toad as they navigate their friendship’s ups and downs. The first story begins with Frog explaining to Toad that winter has ended before the two hop outside to start their adventures. Young readers will enjoy the tender friendship between the two amphibians and quickly become immersed in the endearing stories, each of which stresses the importance of friendship and caring.

Epic Originals! Undersea Mystery Club Book 8: The Puzzling Paintings

Written by: Courtney Carbone

Illustrated by: Melanie Demmer

When graffiti starts appearing all over buildings in Aquamarina, everyone suspects Gill Sharkfin is the perpetrator, but he adamantly denies it. It’s a good thing that Violet the mermaid is on the case! In this eighth volume in the popular series, Violet, with the help of her best friend Wally the narwhal, must gather clues to solve the whodunit. This short chapter book is sure to be a hit with kids who love mermaids and everything under the sea. Be sure to check out the rest of the books here on Epic !

Let’s Tell a Story: Fairy Tale Adventure

Written by: Lily Murray

Illustrated by: Wesley Robins

Let your 2nd-grade kid create their very own fairy tale adventures with this fun-filled story-building book. They can pick from a variety of heroes, including the dragon, the Gingerbread Man or even a gnome. From there, they can choose their destination, tools and magical companions to join their hero on their journey, like a talking toadstool or a genie like Aladdin’s sidekick from the Arabian nights. The illustrated choose-your-own-adventure format offers millions of possibilities. With tons of inspiring prompts and vibrant pictures, it’s chock-full of silly options. And once they’re done, they can start over again.

Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride

Written by: Kate DiCamillo

Illustrated by: Chris Van Dusen

The New York Times best-selling piggy heroine is back, this time behind the wheel of a car. Mr. and Mrs. Watson’s portly pig Mercy loves to hit the road in the backseat of the Watson’s convertible. But one day things go awry when their elderly neighbor Baby Lincoln plops down in the car, and Mercy ends up having to take the wheel. Soon there’s a policeman on her tail, a struggle for the brake, and other hilarious chaos. The silly illustrations and zany story make this early chapter book a great option for reading out loud together.

The Adventures of Captain Underpants (Audiobook)

By: Dav Pilkey 

In the first book in this #1 New York Times bestselling series by “Dog Man” author and illustrator Dav Pilkey, hilarious grossness ensues when 4th-grade best friends George Beard and Harold Hutchins invent the wedgie-powered superhero Captain Underpants. The only thing that class clowns George and Harold love more than jokes and pranks is making comic books, and that’s when they invent the greatest superhero in the history of their elementary school: Captain Underpants. Faster than a speeding waistband! More powerful than boxer shorts! He can leap tall buildings without getting a wedgie. In other words, he’s the perfect hero to serve up plenty of giggles for kids in this age group.  

Do Unto Otters (Audiobook)

By: Laurie Keller

Smart, playful text makes this audiobook perfect for laughing and listening along. The story begins when grouchy Mr. Rabbit suddenly has to get along with the otters who just moved into the neighborhood. Though he struggles with coping with his new neighbors at first, Mr. Rabbit comes to learn how to be kind to otters—er, others—while still respecting their differences. This book teaches kids about the “golden rule” of treating people the way they would like to be treated, and what it means to be a good friend and neighbor.

Judy Moody Was in a Mood

Written by: Megan McDonald

Illustrated by: Peter H. Reynolds

Judy Moody isn’t excited for third grade. Her desk won’t have an armadillo sticker on it. Her new classroom won’t have a pet porcupine. And she feels like her teacher Mr. Todd is going to make her sit in the front row (he does). But what she lacks in enthusiasm, Judy makes up for her personality. And when Mr. Todd assigns them a special project, Judy gets the perfect place to express herself. The vibrant storytelling and quirky illustrations make this relatable tale a fun read for second graders. There are sixteen books in the chapter book series, so if they fall in love with this feisty protagonist, they’ve got a lot more where this came from to enjoy.

Flat Stanley

Written by: Jeff Brown

Illustrated by: Macky Pamintuan

Meet Stanley Lambchop: One morning he wakes up to find his brother Arthur yelling. Apparently, while Stanley was sleeping, a bulletin board fell on him, and now his whole body is only half an inch thick! Soon Stanley is getting rolled up, mailed, even flown like a kite. The upside of his transformation is that he gets to help catch two dangerous art thieves, making him a hero. Kids will delight in the silly situations brought to life with goofy illustrations that will keep ’em laughing. This light-hearted read is great for reluctant readers.

Epic Originals! Cosmic Pizza Party Book 5 : Reality Showdown

Written by: Nick Murphy, Paul Ritchey

Illustrated by: Bea Tormo

In a quest to win the mystical Ever Dough, the Cosmic Pizza Crew joins an episode of The Slice is Right. In the show, they face off with the Roni family and their new android mascot, Supreme! Can the Cosmic Pizza Crew defeat such a powerful opponent? Chock-full of dynamic illustrations and exciting dialogue, this fifth installment of the Cosmic Pizza Party series is sure to keep your kid on the edge of their seat. Perfect for reluctant readers!

Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior Graphic Novel: An Ominous Threat

The second in the graphic novel adaptation of Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior series is here! Runt and his crew are back and ready to embark on a quest to defeat the ender dragon. But if taking down this legendary boss monster weren’t enough, another mysterious enemy lurks just around the corner. This book is perfect for reluctant readers and Minecraft fanatics. Your kid can find even more action-packed pixelated adventures set in the Minecraft Universe on Epic .

Other Recommendations  

Here are some additional books for 2nd graders available off our platform! All of these titles are available on Amazon .

The Relatives Came

Written by: Cynthia Rylant

Illustrated by: Stephen Gammell

The relatives come over for the summer, bringing along a good mix of chaos and affection. Saying goodbye is always bittersweet until they see each other again next year. 

Gooney Bird Greene

By: Lois Lowry

Gooney Bird Greene is the school’s new girl, and her classmates want to know all about her! It’s a good thing Gooney Bird is quite the storyteller and is willing to teach her classmates a few helpful tips.

The Magic Tree House

By: Mary Pope Osborne

Jack and Annie discover a tree house filled with books. The next thing they know, they get whisked away on countless adventures all over the world and all throughout history. 

Top-Secret, Personal Beeswax: A Journal by Junie B. (and Me!)

Written by: Barbara Park

Illustrated by: Denise Brunkus

It’s Junie B. Jones’s personal beeswax! This interactive companion to the book series could make for hours of journaling fun.

That’s our list of books for 2nd graders! Want to find more fun, educational children’s books that kids of all ages can enjoy? Check out more book lists in our posts: “ Best Nonfiction Books for 2nd Graders on Epic! ” and “ Discover These Must-Read Books for 8-Year Olds .”

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40 Amazing Chapter Books that 2nd Graders Will Love

Are you trying to introduce your children to the mysterious and magical world of stories? If so, you have landed in the right place. We are here to introduce you to some exciting chapter books for 2nd graders . Turn the pages of your favorite book and dive into the magical adventures, fun, and mischievousness of your favorite characters.

Opening the enormous world of storybooks could be a delightful solution if you strive to nurture your child’s curiosity. Help your little one widen their imagination with these interesting chapter books.

Scroll down through the list of chapter books for 2nd graders to pick fun-filled bite-sized stories to entertain your children.

Here is a carefully curated list of exciting stories second graders will love!

Chapter Books for 2nd Graders to Encourage Reading

Finding good books for children can be daunting if you do not know what to look for. A colorful book with images and easy readability should be exciting enough for them.

Here are the books that made it to our list of the top 40 chapter books for 2nd graders .

1. Mercy Watson Series by Kate DiCamillo

Mr. and Mrs. Watson live very ordinary lives until a little piglet unexpectedly shows up at their doorstep. This little piggy that they named Mercy Watson is a Porcine Wonder! She loves to eat buttered toast and enjoys snuggling in bed with her owners. Her love for toast and butter often gets her into trouble. This fascinating series by Kate DiCamillo is one of our favorite chapter books for 2nd graders, filled with the delight and playfulness of the little piglet and its love for butter.

2. Toys Go Out Series by Emily Jenkins

As kids, didn’t we all wonder what would happen if our toys came to life? In this series of chapter books for 2nd graders by Emily Jerkins, a little girl’s toys do come to life! A knowledgeable stuffed stingray, a plush buffalo, and a mysterious toy called ‘plastic’ explore their toy ‘lives’ and often get into trouble together. Their antics would make your little reader laugh. Toys Go Out is an easy read for 2nd graders.

3. Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborne

In this series of mystical fascinations, two siblings, Jack and Annie, find a treehouse with a library inside. It belongs to an enchantress, and the books inside are all magical. As Jack and Annie read the enchanted books, they find themselves traveling millions of years back. The series explores their adventures with dinosaurs and other historical creatures. This book is a perfect pick if you are looking for magical chapter books for 2nd graders .

4. Alvin Ho Series by Lenore Look

Alvin Ho is an Asian-American boy in second grade. He is afraid of everything. He is “allergic” to school, girls, hiking, camping, birthday parties, science projects, and even tourist sites. This series is about an anxious kid learning to face his fears and embrace new things in life. If your child is afraid of new experiences, they may find the Alvin Ho series relatable and entertaining. This series of chapter books for 2nd graders helps children understand the beauty of new experiences.

5. Stink Series by Megan McDonald

Stink Moody is a smart and passionate kid. He loves math and science and is a walking encyclopedia. A regular at the Saturday science club, he always solves all the problems using science. The books in this series follow Stink as he goes on fascinating adventures with his best friends, Webster and Sophie. This book is one of the perfect chapter books for 2nd graders who love science.

6. Meet Yasmin by Saadia Faruqui

Yasmin Ahmed is a Pakistani-American second grader. She is a bright, energetic young girl ready for action. She has a big imagination and loves to solve little problems that come up at home or school. This text is a fine example of chapter books for 2nd graders , for little girls of color.

7. Dory Fantasmagory Series by Abby Hanlon

Dory is the youngest child in her family. She wants attention from her elder siblings, but sadly, they see her as a baby and don’t play much with her. Thankfully, Dory has a wild imagination that keeps her occupied. She spends her days fighting monsters and playing with her imaginary friends. This text is a fantastic series of chapter books for 2nd graders with wild imaginations.

8. Absolutely Alfie Series by Sally Warner

Alfie Jakes is an intelligent second grader. Alfie loves exploring her daily life, friendships, and adventures. In one of the stories, she falls in love with a little kitten and tries to bring it home. But her house has a “no pet” rule. Will she convince her parents to let the kitten in? Explore her story in a series of chapter books for 2nd graders .

9. Woodward And McTwee by Jonathan Fenske

We have all heard the story of an ant and an elephant, but have you heard the story of a bird and a hippopotamus? Woodward, the hippo, and McTwee, the bird, are best friends. They look different from each other, yet they love to play together and pull pranks on each other. If you are looking for humorous chapter books for 2nd graders , give this one a go.

10. Little Bear Series by Else Holmelund Minarik

Little Bear is a bear cub who is beginning to explore life. His mother, the mama bear, is always there to support him. Mama Bear designs winter clothes whenever he wants to go out in the snow. When he is out, she cooks warm food for him. This book is a perfect bedtime storybook for your kid.

11. Ralph Mouse Series by Beverly Cleary

Ralph is a mouse who can talk to certain people. He lives in Ryan’s house with his mouse family. Ralph asks Ryan to take him to school. In the school, Ralph is discovered and made the class pet, and a new adventure begins. If your kiddo loves small animals like mice, they would like this series of chapter books for curious 2nd graders .

12. The Bad Guys Series by Aaron Blabey

The bad guys are a gang of anthropomorphized animals seen as bad. They want to change how people view them, so they try to do good deeds. However, things don’t always work out the way they want. This series teaches children not to judge a book by its cover. Read this book if you are looking for chapter books for 2nd graders with moral lessons.

13. Diary Of An Ice Princess Series by Christina Soontornvat

Princess Lina lives in a palace in the clouds. Her mother is a wind tamer, and her grandfather is the north wind. She, too, has magical powers and can turn things into ice. However, she goes to a school and must keep her superpowers a secret. This series takes us on an adventure with Lina as she struggles to control her powers. A fan of Disney’s “Frozen” would love this series of chapter books for 2nd graders .

14. Bug Scouts Series by Mike Lowery

Want to look at life from the perspective of a little bug? Bugs in this series by Mike Lowery are scouts who must go out in the wild and complete tasks to earn their badges. Their first task is to find edible plants. Will they be able to complete the task without getting in trouble? This is a fun story for children who love nature and are adventurous.

15. Zoey And Sassafras Series by Asia Citro

Zoey is a little girl who is a scientist in her own right. She and a cat named Sassafras try to help the magical creatures that live around her house and need Zoey’s help. In one story, an injured baby dragon visits when mom is not home. Read what happens next in this one of the intriguing chapter books for 2nd graders .

16. King & Kayla Series by Dori Hillestad Butler

King is the dog. Kayla is the little girl who owns the dog. Together, they go on adventures and solve cases. When they find a missing dog, they search for clues to find his human family. When the dog treats that Kayla made go missing, they go on another adventure to solve the mystery. This humorous series about a human-dog detective duo would tickle your little one.

17. Henry And Mudge Series by Cynthia Rylant

Another series features a friendship between a child and a dog. Henry is a young boy, and Mudge is his dog. They are best friends and always go on adventures together. This series takes the reader on an adventure with the duo. If your kid loves dogs, this chapter book would be a good choice for them.

18. Rainbow Magic Series by Daisy Meadows

Kristy and Rachel are best friends who meet fairies when they go on vacation with their families to Rainspell Island. The fairies are worried because they are on the verge of losing all their powers. It is all because of the jealous and greedy Jack Frost. How will the best friends help the fairies retain their powers? Ready to discover more?

19. Owly Series by Andy Runton

Owly is a kind-hearted owl who only wants to help others. However, his intentions are often misunderstood. One day, he saves a worm from drowning, and the worm becomes his friend. They go on adventures together and help others. This series teaches children to be kind to others. This text is one of the chapter books for 2nd graders to help you teach children moral lessons.

20. Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish

Amelia Bedelia is a lighthearted maid who works for a wealthy couple. They often give her instructions in figurative language, while she takes everything literally and makes a mess. Although the series is quite old, it is still enjoyable. If your kids love goofy things, they will find Amelia Bedelia quite entertaining.

21. The Cobble Street Cousins Series by Cynthia Rylant

The Cobble Street Cousins is about Aunt Lucy and her three 9-year-old nieces. The parents of these little girls have gone on a world tour for a year, leaving them with their aunt. The three girls have very different personalities, yet they match each other perfectly. This series is a perfect feel-good read.

22. Juana & Lucas Series by Juana Medina

Juana is a little girl who lives in Colombia with her mother and her dog, Lucas. She loves soccer, her best friend, and Astroman. But learning English is something she dislikes. One day, her grandparents promised to take her to SpaceWorld in Florida to meet Astroman. However, she must learn English first. This text is perfect if you are looking for good chapter books for 2nd graders that will motivate children to study harder.

23. Gooney Bird Greene Series by Lois Lowry

Gooney Bird Greene is a confident little girl who likes to be the center of everyone’s attention. She has just transferred to Mrs. Pidgeon’s second-grade class. When it is time for storytelling lessons, Gooney Bird talks about her almost magical adventures that seem too good to be true. Get this text if you are looking for chapter books for 2nd graders to improve their reading skills.

24. Bird & Squirrel On Ice by James Burks

After a raging blizzard, Bird and Squirrel find themselves on the South Pole. They meet a penguin named Sakari and become friends with it. However, the penguin thinks that Bird has come to save them from the hungry killer whale destroying the penguins’ village. The squirrel soon finds out that the penguins are planning to sacrifice Bird to the killer whale and makes plans to save it. This text is a hilarious tale that 2nd graders will love.

25. The Good Dog Series by Cam Higgins

Bo Davis is a good dog. He is a cute puppy who lives on a family farm. Bo loves to go on adventures on the farm, such as finding his lost dog tag, meeting a new foal, and making new friends. He also learns how to herd and watches fireworks. Try the Good Dog series if you want simple chapter books for 2nd graders .

26. Real Pigeons Fight Crime Series by Andrew McDonald

Does your child love stories where good guys fight bad guys? If yes, they will love Real Pigeons Fight Crime. In this series, an old pigeon starts a squad of crime-fighting pigeons who fight crime, solve mysteries, and keep their city safe. The squad consists of Rock Pigeon, who is a master of disguise, Bendy Tumbler, Strong Frillback, and Super-finder Homie.

27. Horrid Henry by Francesca Simon

Horrid Henry is a famous character by Francesca Simon. Besides being clever and resourceful, he does horrible things. Henry is naughty but doesn’t always do things with bad intentions. Horrid Henry is not an ideal little boy, but he helps children understand what they should and shouldn’t do. The Horrid Henry series of chapter books for 2nd graders is an all-time favorite children’s book.

28. Cat Ninja by Matthew Cody

Claude is a house cat who stays with an old lady. They watch Ninja movies together, and he had seen her become a Ninja crime fighter when attacked. Now, Claude lives with Leon, an eleven-year-old boy. As crimes increase in the city, Claude transforms into a cat ninja and uses the ninja moves he learned as a kitten to protect the city. This text is a good read if you are looking for superhero chapter books for 2nd graders .

29. Katie Woo & Friends Series by Fran Manushkin

Katie Woo is an Asian-American elementary school student. She loves her friends JoJo and Pedro. They go through childhood adventures together, such as losing teeth and looking for ghosts. They also learn to deal with hurt and other emotions. Katie also gets into a lot of trouble, but they always find a way out of it and learn their lessons. This text is a lovely series of chapter books for 2nd graders that most kids would relate to.

30. Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot by Dav Pilkey

Ricky Ricotta is a mouse who is bullied at school. It changes when he saves a mighty robot from its evil creator. Stinky McNasty is a scientist who wants to destroy the world with his robots. When Ricky rescues the robot, he gains a friend who protects him. Together, they save the world from McNasty’s evil plans. This text is one of our favorite superhero chapter books for 2nd graders .

31. The Disgusting Critters Series by Elise Gravel

Disgusting Critters is a series of hilarious nonfiction books by Elise Gravel. These books talk about disgusting critters like mosquitoes, bats, worms, toads, cockroaches, and head lice. These books are full of fun facts and provide a lot of information. They are a perfect series of chapter books for 2nd graders who are not afraid of anything.

32. Sofia Martinez Series by Jacqueline Jules

Sofia Martinez is a little Hispanic girl who has grown up in a big family. She is used to fighting for attention and has a fiery and outgoing personality. She is stubborn and mischievous. The books in this series take the reader on a ride with Sofia as she goes through her daily adventures. If you are looking for chapter books for 2nd graders that give representation to Hispanic people, this is a good book.

33. The Ramona Series by Beverly Cleary

Ramona is a four-year-old little girl. Her older sister dislikes Ramona for being too obnoxious. The series explores her mischief at home and school as she grows up. This book is an amazing read for children with older or younger siblings.

34. Henry Huggins Series by Beverly Cleary

Henry Huggins is a little boy whose life is pretty ordinary. Then one day, he rescues a stray dog whom he names Ribsy. With Ribsy, life becomes adventurous for little Henry. They even enter a dog show, and Ribsy wins the trophy. This text is a good pick if you are looking for adventurous chapter books for 2nd graders who love animals.

35. Donut Feed the Squirrels by Mika Song

Norma and Belly are two squirrels who love to eat tasty treats. After their pancakes get burned, they decide that they would like to have donuts from a local donut truck. Mika Song tells the story of clever squirrels on a mission to acquire donuts. If you are looking for fun chapter books for 2nd graders , give this a go.

36. The Littles Series by John Peterson

The Littles are a family of tiny mouse-like humanoids. They live in the house of the Biggs family. Littles are always getting into trouble and must find their way out. This storybook would be a fun-filled series of chapter books for 2nd graders who love adventures.

37. Mia Mayhem Series by Kara West

Mia Mayhem is an ordinary 8-year-old schoolgirl. One day, her world turns upside down when she realizes she is a superhero. She soon begins to attend after-school training for superheroes. As the series progresses, the readers are taken on a ride with Mia as she goes on various superhero adventures. If you are looking for superhero chapter books for 2nd graders , this is one delightful series.

38. Sadiq Series by Siman Nuurali

Sadiq is a Somali kid. He is a bright and smart boy who lives with his family. The story gives readers an insight into the daily lives of Somali children. The series talks about teamwork, community, family, and more. If you want to introduce your children to different cultures, this fantastic series of chapter books for 2nd graders would be good.

39. Mindy Kim by Lyla Lee

Mindy Kim is a young Asian-American girl. She is grieving the loss of her mother and has to move across the United States from California to Florida with her dad. She transfers to a new school and wonders if she would fit in a new place that doesn’t have a big Korean-American community. This is a series that many Asian-American children would relate to. Mindy Kim is a good series of chapter books for 2nd graders who are POC.

40. The Magic Mirror (Once Upon a Fairy Tale) by Anna Staniszewski

Kara and Zed are two kids suffering from the heat wave in their kingdom. Their Ice Princess is unable to cool down the temperature as her magic mirror is not working. The kids embark on an adventure to help the princess fix her magic mirror. It is a beautiful story for kids who love magical stories.

Summing It Up

All in all, children love stories and storybooks. If you want to encourage your child to read more, gift them some fun chapter books. In this blog, we have shared our favorite chapter books for 2nd graders . Whether your little one likes little piggies, fairies, dogs, or critters, we have something for everyone.

These chapter books for 2nd graders are colorful, easy to read, and delightful. They tell stories that captivate the minds of young readers and make them more imaginative. Some of these books, like Katie Woo & Friends and Sofia Martinez, provide representation for racial minorities.

Which one of these 40- chapter books for 2nd graders do you think your child will enjoy the most?

Let us know in the comments section.

Rachel Kim has passionately advocated children's literature for over 15 years. She holds a Master's in Early Childhood Education from the University of Washington and has worked extensively as a children's book editor. She earned her Master's in Library and Information Science from the University of Texas and has since contributed to various educational initiatives focusing on early literacy. Beyond her professional life, Rachel is an avid gardener and enjoys creating fairy tale-inspired gardens. Rachel’s hobbies include illustrating children's books and participating in community theater.

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Second Grade Math with Confidence Bundle Paperback – June 28, 2022

Bundle includes: Includes:

• Second Grade Math with Confidence Instructor Guide , paperback
• Second Grade Math with Confidence Student Workbook , full color consumable paperback

Math educator Kate Snow gives parents the tools they need to teach Math with Confidence .

This scripted, open-and-go program leads parents step-by-step through teaching all the concepts second-graders need to master:

• reading, writing, and comparing numbers to 1000
• adding and subtracting two- and three-digit numbers
• solving addition and subtraction word problems
• telling time, counting money, measuring length
• reading graphs, identifying shapes, and understanding simple fractions

Short, lively lessons will hold a child’s attention by incorporating hands-on activities, games, and real-life situations. Straightforward, colorful worksheets give students practice with new concepts and review previously-learned material. Snow makes math fun by including optional enrichment lessons, with suggestions for wonderful math picture books to enjoy together and application activities to make math come alive.

Beyond just telling parents what to do, Second Grade Math with Confidence also helps them understand why the lessons are designed the way they are, giving them the knowledge and confidence to help their children learn.

Using Second Grade Math with Confidence will allow parents to build a strong math foundation for their children. Age Range: 7 to 8 Grade: Second Grade

• Language English
• Grade level 2 and up
• Dimensions 8.5 x 1.8 x 11 inches
• Publisher The Well-Trained Mind Press
• Publication date June 28, 2022
• ISBN-10 1952469309
• ISBN-13 978-1952469305
• See all details

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These results reflect the scores of students who took part in the pilot test of the forthcoming Fifth Grade Math with Confidence (Summer 2025). Many of them have used each book in the series since Kindergarten Math with Confidence !

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About the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ The Well-Trained Mind Press (June 28, 2022)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1952469309
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1952469305
• Reading age ‏ : ‎ 7 - 8 years, from customers
• Grade level ‏ : ‎ 2 and up
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 4.59 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.5 x 1.8 x 11 inches
• #20 in Children's Fraction Books
• #24 in Math Teaching Materials
• #220 in Education Workbooks (Books)

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Kate Snow is a math educator on a mission to help parents raise kids who are capable and confident in math. With experience as a homeschool parent, classroom teacher, and curriculum writer, she holds a B.A. in Mathematics from Harvard University and an M.S. in Elementary Education from Walden University. Kate is the author of Preschool Math at Home, the Math Facts That Stick series, and the Math with Confidence curriculum. She writes at kateshomeschoolmath.com.

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