books for 6th grade book reports

50 Must-Read Books for 6th Graders

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

Yashvi Peeti

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

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

Graphic Novels for 6th Graders

1. Stargazing by Jen Wang

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

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

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

2. New Kid by Jerry Craft

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

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

3. Pashmina by Nidhi Chanani

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

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

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4. El Deafo by Cece Bell and David Lasky

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

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

5. Smile (Smile #1) by Raina Telgemeier

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

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

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

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

“When best friends are not forever . . .

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

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

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

8. Coraline by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell

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

Only it’s different.

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

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

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

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

“Boys don’t keep diaries—or do they?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Realistic Books for 6th Graders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Ways to Live Forever by Sally Nicholls

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

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

15. Front Desk by Kelly Yang

“Mia Tang has a lot of secrets.

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

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

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

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

16. Listen, Slowly by Thanhhà Lai

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

17. Martin McLean, Middle School Queen by Alyssa Zaczek

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

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

18. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

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

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

19. See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng

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

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

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

20. Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Books for 6th Graders

23. gregor the overlander by suzanne collins.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. Furthermore (Furthermore #1) by Tahereh Mafi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

29. Ghost Squad by Claribel Ortega

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

32. Fablehaven (Fablehaven #1) by Brandon Mull

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

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

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

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

Find more fantasy books for 6th graders.

Classic Books for 6th Graders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

37. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

42. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

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

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

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

44. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

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

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

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

 Poetry And Short Stories For 6th Graders

45. out of wonder  by kwame alexander.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

48. Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Best Books for 6th Graders

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

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60 Exceptional Books for 6th Graders

Today, it’s all about the best books for sixth graders (and can I say, this is quite the sweet spot). At age 11, these kids are often confident readers who are eager to explore a variety of genres. Many of them can handle problem books and really enjoy realistic fiction. Still, of course, they’re still reading their graphic novels and short books, as well as engaging series. That’s why I’ve tried to include all of these on this list. You’ll find comics, problem books, funny stories, short books, long books, middle-grade mysteries, and even series on this list of books for sixth graders. I’ve worked hard to make it a good mix of books with boys on the cover and girls as well.

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60 Terrific Books for 6th Graders

Here are 60+ fabulous books for 6th graders:

Roller Girl

Published: March 10, 2015

Astrid and Nicole are best friends who do nearly everything together. Until Astrid’s mom takes them to watch roller derby. While Astrid can’t get enough of the cool girls and all the derby action, Nicole is immediately put off. So when Astrid signs up for junior derby, Nicole chooses a ballet elective instead. However, Astrid never tells her mom that she’s derby rolling instead of doing ballet with Nicole. Things get more difficult when Astrid realizes that roller derby is no joke — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Will she make it? Roller Girl  is an action-packed exploration of roller derby, the thrill of finding a passion, and the power of perseverance.

The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise

Published: January 8, 2019

A girl named Coyote, a dad named Rodeo, a boy, a cat, and several other eclectic characters with stories deeper than the surface make up the cast of this heartwarming road trip story. This book is incredible. With one of the most remarkable (no pun intended) protagonists I’ve read in a while, TRJOCS handles dying, grief, and family excellently. It’s one of those books that brings your heart joy even while it’s breaking it.

Be Real, Macy Weaver

Published: July 12, 2022

Macy Weaver has trouble keeping friendships, and as readers quickly discover, most of this is her fault. Whenever she meets someone she likes and wants to be accepted by, she starts to copy them — their style, preferences, and even mannerisms — and sometimes pretends to be someone she isn’t to impress them. This usually puts off her new friends. Unfortunately, when her family moves from South Carolina to Maryland, Macy continues this behavior. At school, Macy weaves a tale of her mom being a fashion photographer and is roped into keeping up appearances to impress Brynn, a girl at her school. But Brynn already has a best friend, Grace, who is unconvinced by Macy’s antics, and wants to get to the bottom of things. This is an engaging, realistic, and creative middle grade novel about identity, fashion, and friendships.

Ten Thousand Tries

Published: July 13, 2021

Golden Macaroni is having a tough year. First, he really wants to get bigger and become the captain of his middle school soccer team. As a dedicated Messi fan, he’s putting in ten thousand hours of soccer practice to become as good as Messi. His former soccer star father has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). His best friend, Lucy Littlehouse, is also moving away from her home next door to Golden’s. Despite his dad’s obvious deterioration, Golden stubbornly believes his dad will improve. How will he cope with everything on his plate — and the heartbreaking challenges ahead of his family? Ten Thousand Tries  is a moving, heartwarming  story about family , friendship,  community , soccer, and the love of a father.

Finally Seen

Published: February 28, 2023

Lina is finally moving to the US to reunite with her parents after five years apart. She’d been living with her grandmother in China, but now her grandmother is ill, and her parents want her to come to North Carolina with them and her little sister Millie. But when she arrives, nothing about their life is as her parents have told her. They live in an apartment, not a house like her mom said, and her parents owe a ton of back rent after the pandemic. Her dad is an organic farmer, and her mom is trying hard to launch a bath bomb business with little capital. Things aren’t any easier at school with Lina’s poor English. When she finally finds a graphic novel she loves, and her teacher wants the class to read it, influential parents at her school are determined to stop it from being read. Will Lina use her voice? Finally Seen  is a moving, inspiring, and insightful middle grade book about immigration, family, and  sisterhood .

Published: March 7, 2023

Avery has SIX siblings and is feeling squished at home, so she’s crushed when her older brother Theo gets the first chance to room alone. She has to share a room with her younger siblings, Pearl and Max. On top of that, she often babysits the youngest three siblings. Her dad is a teacher, and her mom is studying to become a programmer, so things can be hectic at home. Avery decides to get a job so she can earn money and set up a basement bedroom. But just when she’s finding her groove, it appears that the family will have to move to another city — away from the friends and neighborhood Avery has come to love. Squished  is a heartwarming, relatable middle grade book about  being part of a large family , navigating sibling relationships, and  adjusting to change .

Published: February 5, 2019

Seventh grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade.As he makes the daily trip from his Washington Heights apartment to the upscale Riverdale Academy Day School, Jordan soon finds himself torn between two worlds—and not really fitting into either one. Can Jordan learn to navigate his new school culture while keeping his neighborhood friends and staying true to himself? This middle grade graphic novel is an excellent choice for tween readers who love the graphic format and are looking for more Black middle grade books.

Real Friends

Published: May 2, 2017

Real Friends  is Shannon Hale’s graphic memoir of her middle school experience with real friends — and girls who weren’t quite friends. Shannon and Adrienne have been best friends since Shannon came out of her shell in early elementary school. She had earlier been the shy middle child who never felt like she quite fit in anywhere. But with Adrienne, it was like she could finally exhale. But when Adrienne starts hanging out with the popular girl, Jen, Shannon suddenly doesn’t know where she fits in anymore. Shannon Hale’s  Real Friends  is a realistic, moving depiction of the roller coaster that middle school friendships can be, and how affirming it can be to find true friends.

Every Missing Piece

Published: May 26, 2020

Maddy Gaines is an anxious girl still coping with the grief of her father’s death — and also adjusting to her new stepfather. One day, Maddy sees on the news that a boy named Billy Holcomb has gone missing. Then several weeks after, she runs into another boy who looks a lot like Billy, except his hair is different and he’s taller than Billy was, and oh — his name is Eric. Maddy would love to report her hunch to the sheriff, but she’s practically known as the girl who cried wolf. So she decides to watch and wait. While she’s waiting, she and Eric become friends. Will Maddy get to the bottom of the Eric/Billy situation? And will she find a way to open her heart despite her worries? Every Missing Piece  is a sensitive, moving, and heartwarming middle grade  book about managing anxiety  and  adjusting to a new step-parent .

Other Words for Home

Published: May 28, 2019

Young Jude is uprooted from her life in Syria in the midst of the civil unrest. She and her mother (who is pregnant) move temporarily to Cincinnati to live with her uncle and his family. Jude is sad to leave behind her country, best friend Fatima, father, and brother who’s involved in various protests in Syria. In America, Jude — who used to be the best English student in Syria — has to join an ESL class and deal with questions about her hijab. She’s also trying to build a relationship with her cousin who feels culturally adrift, unable to speak Arabic and knowing little to nothing about Syria. Still, Jude finds good things in America and learns how brave she can be. Good for anyone looking for stories set in Syria, fans of Hena Khan’s Amina’s Voice, and anyone searching for a story with a brave female protagonist.

Squad Goals

Published: April 6, 2021

Magic Pointdexter is her family’s “ugly duckling.” Her father is an ex-NBA player, her sister a famous cheerleader, and her late grandmother was also a ceiling-shattering cheerleader. Magic is awkward, chubbier than your typical cheerleader, and loves sweets more than anything else. But she’s decided: she’s going to cheer camp to try her hand out at becoming a Honeybee. Magic is struggling with getting fit and flexible enough, learning stunts, dealing with the breakup of a lifelong friendship, and trying to figure out who she wants to be. Can she survive Planet Pom Poms? Squad Goals  is a feel-good summer camp story perfect for fans of friendship stories,  summer camp tales , and coming-of-age books.

The Cool Code

Published: November 8, 2022

When Zoey’s parents decide she’ll go from homeschooling to in-person middle school, she’s nervous about fitting in. Fortunately, she has one major skill: coding. Having been exposed to computers and coding earlier, Zoey builds a mobile app called The Cool Code, which uses artificial intelligence and data to predict which outfits she should wear, what to say in conversations, and even which kids to befriend if she wants to be popular. But letting an app decide your social interactions gets complicated pretty quickly. The Cool Code  is a fun,  STEM-centered  graphic novel about fitting in, being yourself, and finding your tribe. 

The Best Worst Summer

Published: May 4, 2021

The Best Worst Summer  follows two sets of kids three decades apart. In the present, Peyton and her family have just moved from Minneapolis to a small town named Lake Springs, leaving her best friend and their summer soccer camp tradition behind. But her summer gains new life when she discovers a box of secrets: a cryptic note to a friend, half of a “best friends” necklace, a playlist and several other items. Meanwhile, in 1989, best friends Jessica and Melissa plan to bury a time capsule. Jessica is an adopted Korean girl — one of the only Asians in her small town — and Melissa’s mom is hiding some deep secrets about their family. When the secret unravels, the girls’ lives are forever changed. That is until Peyton finds their time capsule in the present. As we read Melissa and Peyton’s perspectives, the story alternates between past and present. This is a charming, engaging middle grade novel that manages to blend historical and contemporary fiction.

Counting by 7s

Published: August 29, 2013

Willow Chance is a twelve-year-old genius, obsessed with nature and diagnosing medical conditions, who finds it comforting to count by 7s. It has never been easy for her to connect with anyone other than her adoptive parents, but that hasn’t kept her from leading a quietly happy life . . . until now. Suddenly Willow’s world is tragically changed when her parents both die in a car crash, leaving her alone in a baffling world. The triumph of this book is that it is  not  a tragedy. This extraordinarily odd, but extraordinarily endearing, girl manages to push through her grief. Her journey to find a fascinatingly diverse and fully believable surrogate family is a joy and a revelation to read.

Last Gate of the Emperor

This is a middle grade Afro-futuristic sci-fi novel co-written by Kwame Mbalia and Prince Joel Makonnen. Yared Heywat lives in Addis Prime, a rundown reimagined Ethiopian city. Yared is a frequent competitor in an augmented reality game set in the city, sometimes ditching school. But just when he seems to be getting the upper hand, the game rules change and Yared has to sign in using his real name. Halfway through the game Yared is suddenly being pursued by real-life law enforcement simply for being Yared. Forced to join forces with his rival, a girl called the Ibis, Yared and his pet bionic lioness have to get to the bottom of the attack and in the process learn some shocking information about Yared’s identity. Last gate of the Emperor i s a propulsive sci-fi adventure set in an Afrofuturistic city, perfect for fans of  The Black Panther ‘s Wakanda.

Where You’ve Got to Be

Published: September 13, 2022

Nolie feels like the odd person out amid changes. Her sister Linden, who’s only 14 months older seems to have grown up overnight, ditching the seashell necklace their grandmother gave them. And now her best friend, Jessa thinks Nolie’s nickname is too babyish and she should really go by her full name, Magnolia instead. She also wants to include a new cooler friend in their duo and give Nolie a complete makeover. To top it off, Nolie doesn’t seem to have a “thing” that she’s good at or particularly passionate about. With all those emotions brewing, Nolie makes a poor choice to start stealing things from several people. Can she find her way? Where You’ve Got to Be  is an engaging, immersive, and relatable middle grade book about dealing with changing circumstances.

Sunny Side Up

Published: August 25, 2015

Sunny Lewin has been packed off to Florida to live with her grandfather for the summer. At first she thought Florida might be fun — it  is  the home of Disney World, after all. But the place where Gramps lives is no amusement park. It’s full of . . . old people.  Really  old people.Luckily, Sunny isn’t the only kid around. She meets Buzz, a boy who is completely obsessed with comic books, and soon they’re having adventures of their own: facing off against golfball-eating alligators, runaway cats, and mysteriously disappearing neighbors. But the question remains —  why  is Sunny down in Florida in the first place? The answer lies in a family secret that won’t be secret to Sunny much longer.

Big Apple Diaries

Published: August 17, 2021

Big Apple Diaries  is Alyssa Bermudez’s graphic memoir detailing her life experiences in New York City between the 7th and 8th grades. Her middle school years also coincide with the attack on 9/11 and the book documents the impact on her and her circle. Prior to that, though, Alyssa is an average tween who attends a Catholic co-ed school, likes doodling, and has a crush on a schoolmate named Alejandro. Her parents are also divorced, so she spends time between each of their apartments in New York. B ig Apple Diaries  is a relatable and enjoyable coming-of-age  graphic memoir .

Call Me Adnan

Published: June 13, 2023

Adnan loves table tennis, his family, and the aviation alphabet. He’s color blind, left-handed and has a big sister and little brother, with another sibling on the way. When his family take a summer trip so he can compete in a tennis tournament, an unbelievable tragedy occurs, shattering their life as they know it. I don’t like sad stories. Life is hard enough, but the author drew me into this story and I couldn’t stop reading. The verse format is enjoyable and provides a wide enough window into the plot and characters. Most importantly, this story is very hopeful, despite the tragedy. If you love verse novels and don’t mind a tearjerker, this is a perfect summer story for you. Heads up for sibling loss and child drowning.

A Duet for Home

Published: April 5, 2022

12-year-old June, her younger sister Mabel, and her mother are forced to move into Huey House, a homeless shelter in New York City. June’s mother has become non-verbal since their father died a few months ago, so June has to care for Mabel on her own. At Huey House, June meets Tyrell and the two form a friendship on the back of their shared love for music. June also starts getting viola lessons from a next-door neighbor. But just when she’s finding her footing at Huey House, she finds out through Tyrell that the government is trying to get people out of the home before they’re ready and sending them to unsafe neighborhoods. Can June and Tyrell make a difference? A Duet for Home  is a warm, realistic, and inspiring middle grade  book about homelessness , grief, and  a love of music .

The Mysterious Benedict Society

Published: April 1, 2008

“Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunities?” Dozens of children respond to this peculiar ad in the newspaper and are then put through a series of mind-bending tests, which readers take along with them. Only four children–two boys and two girls–succeed. Their challenge: to go on a secret mission that only the most intelligent and inventive children could complete. To accomplish it they will have to go undercover at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where the only rule is that there are no rules. But what they’ll find in the hidden underground tunnels of the school is more than your average school supplies. So, if you’re gifted, creative, or happen to know Morse Code, they could probably use your help.

Published: May 10, 2022

In  Duet , we meet a young goldfinch, Mirabelle. Mirabelle lives with her mother and brothers in a nest next to a piano teacher’s house. Mr. Starek, the piano teacher, is now aged but has received a new student, Jin, who does not seem pleased to be taking lessons from Mr. Starek. After weeks of reluctance, Jin starts to play, and surprisingly, Mirabelle joins in, forcing Jin to notice her. Soon, the two begin to create duets together during Jin’s practice sessions. When Jin and Mirabelle find out that Mr. Starek’s late sister might have a special piano in her foreclosed home, they band together in a new way to investigate and solve a decades-old mystery about Frederick Chopin’s piano. Duet  by Elise Broach is an enrapturing, unique  story about music , friendship, history, and  birds  — especially goldfinches.

From the Desk of Zoe Washington

Published: January 14, 2020

Twelve-year-old Zoe Washington’s summer is off to a rough start. She’s not speaking to one of her best friends, for one. Her other best friend is away at summer camp and the third one has moved away. But things get more complicated when she finds a letter in the mail from her incarcerated birth father. The only problem is that he’s in jail for something “very bad” and Zoe has never met or spoken to him before. As she starts to write to Marcus, Zoe realizes that things might not be so black and white — not with her friend Trevor, and certainly not with Marcus. While she learns more about Marcus, she also spends part of her summer interning at a pastry shop. This is a moving, true-to-life middle-grade novel that highlights just how potent perseverance can be — even when you’re just twelve. This book is one of those middle-grade novels that tackles issues without taking away the joy of the mundane.

Dear Friends

What if you realized that you can’t seem to maintain friendships? When this happens to Eleni in  Dear Friends , she decides to embark on a challenge to revisit and revive her top five failed friendships. As life would have it, just as the process starts, her oldest childhood friend and BFF, Sylvie, starts pulling away from her. Can Eleni get to the bottom of things and recover her friendships before the start of middle school? Dear Friends  is a highly relatable, summery middle grade book about what it means to be a good friend and maintain strong friendships.

I LOVED this book and found it impressive, especially for a debut novel. Wyman’s writing feels so genuine, probably because it’s based on her experience with jaw malocclusion in childhood. I read all 300+ pages in one sitting and was breathless at the end. Max is getting bullied by kids at school for her jaw problems, and her kid sister is one of the bullies. Her parents’ relationship is strained. Her dad works nights and is an alcoholic, and her mom is a chain smoker. Yet, they do their best for the kids, and it’s the kids’ normal. Eventually, Max finds her voice and stands up to her bullies in the best way.

Published: October 30, 2018

Isabella is mixed race, figuring out her identity, and is now also caught between both parents as she alternates between her divorced parents’ houses. This is a great story with many important themes — being biracial, coping with parental divorce and remarriage, being black in America, classical music, family — and I would recommend this book to anyone interested in those themes. Heads up that this book features a racially-motivated shooting. Also, please pass on the audio — the narration is pretty subpar.

Published: March 31, 2020

When Ross is diagnosed with a rare lacrimal gland cancer (in his eye), it’s like a new trial for his seventh-grade existence. Add to that the fact that his mom died from cancer years before, he’s going blind in one eye, his best friend is moving away soon, and mean kids at school are making terrible memes about his illness, and you have a dumpster fire of a year waiting to happen. Or is it? Wink  by Rob Harrell is a brilliant, funny, and thoughtful middle grade book about navigating a cancer diagnosis in 7th grade.

Out of Range

Published: June 7, 2022

In  Out of Range , sisters Abby, Emma, and Ollie can’t seem to get it together. After months of squabbling, their parents ship them off to summer camp together to figure out their issues. The girls succeed in ignoring each other most of the time, but a hike gone wrong on their last day forces them to work together against hunger, near-drownings, and bear attacks. The story alternates between the past and the present so readers can see what went wrong with the sisters and watch them make their way back. Out of Range  is a heartfelt survival  middle grade book about sisterhood , tween angst, and identity.

Published: August 31, 2021

Fast Pitch  is a companion title to Nic Stone’s  Clean Getaway , which I really enjoyed! It stars Scoob’s crush Shenice, an U12 softball team captain whose concentration is shot when she stumbles upon a decades-long family mystery. Shenice and her team are preparing to win the Fastpitch World Series, when she discovers that a crime her great-grand father was accused of — which cost him his reputation and place in the Negro leagues — may have actually been a set-up all along. And now, Shenice is the only one who can clear his name. Fast Pitch  is a fast-paced, poignant sports mystery about family, racism, and community.

Out of My Mind

Published: March 9, 2010

Eleven-year-old Melody is not like most people. She can’t walk. She can’t talk. She can’t write. All because she has cerebral palsy. But she also has a photographic memory; she can remember every detail of everything she has ever experienced. She’s the smartest kid in her whole school, but NO ONE knows it. Most people—her teachers, her doctors, her classmates—dismiss her as mentally challenged because she can’t tell them otherwise. But Melody refuses to be defined by her disability. And she’s determined to let everyone know it…somehow.

Ready Set Dough

Published: October 17, 2023

Ambitious sixth grader Zoe Sparks loves to write and enjoys brainstorming ideas for her journalism class. There’s only one problem: Her at-home computer is so unreliable that it just stops working one day. Fortunately, her school is organizing a cookie dough fundraiser, and guess what the top seller prize is? A WordPro laptop — and orange (her favorite color) at that! Zoe is determined to outsell everyone, especially her nemesis Amaya. But soon, her ambition begins to impact her balance and her friendship with her BFF Felix. I adored the voice in this one and finished it in one day. One of my favorites in 2023 and also UNDER 200 pages!

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library

Published: June 25, 2013

When Kyle learns that the world’s most famous game maker, Luigi Lemoncello, has designed the town’s new library and is having an invitation-only lock-in on opening night, he’s determined to be there! But the tricky part isn’t getting into the library—it’s getting out. Because when morning comes, the doors stay locked. Kyle and the other kids must solve every clue and figure out every secret puzzle to find the hidden escape route! 

In the Beautiful Country

Published: June 28, 2022

Living in 80s Taiwan with her mother, Ai Shi (Anna) eagerly anticipates living in the beautiful country (the US) where their father moved a few months ago. As she gives away her favorite clothes and toys to cousins in preparation for the move, she can’t help but brag about the new life awaiting them. But she’s in for a shock when they arrive at their cramped apartment. Her father was conned into buying a failing fast-food restaurant, and Anna’s parents struggle to make ends meet. At school, she feels like an outsider since she can barely speak English. On top of that, her parents are dealing with some unkind customers who mistreat them because they’re Asians. Can Anna find her way? This is a moving, poignant, and lyrical verse novel about immigration, identity, food, and family.

Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen

Published:   February 25, 2020

Vivy Cohen is an autistic, baseball-obsessed girl who really wants to play the sport. Unfortunately, her mom is holding back because she’s a girl and she has autism. But when Vivy writes to a famous Black baseball player as part of her social skills homework, things start to change. For one, VJ Capello writes back, and the two become pen pals. Then, a Little League coach asks Vivy to join his team. As they overcome unique hurdles, Vivy and VJ soon realize that they’ll need to put up a fight for the sport they love. Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen!  is an endearing middle grade book about the love of baseball, life with autism, and figuring out your strengths.

I Can Make This Promise

Published: October 1, 2019

All her life, Edie has known that her mom was adopted by a white couple. So, no matter how curious she might be about her Native American heritage, Edie is sure her family doesn’t have any answers. Until the day when she and her friends discover a box hidden in the attic—a box full of letters signed “Love, Edith,” and photos of a woman who looks just like her. Suddenly, Edie has a flurry of new questions about this woman who shares her name. Could she belong to the Native family that Edie never knew about? But if her mom and dad have kept this secret from her all her life, how can she trust them to tell her the truth now?

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

Published: May 1, 2018

I enjoyed this book so much, which says a lot for a Math hater! Lucy acquires savant-level math skills after being struck by lightning as a child. She also becomes obsessive-compulsive and reclusive after the incident. So her grandmother insists she goes to middle school for at least a year, in addition to other social requirements. The narration of this book is so well done! I can’t recommend it enough for math lovers, but everyone will enjoy following Lucy’s social miscalculations and her journey to seeing how much having people in your life can enrich it.

Published: August 16, 2022

In  Tumble , we meet 12-year-old Addie, who lives with her pregnant mom and stepdad. Her stepdad wants to adopt her (but only if she wants) and Addie loves him but can’t shake the curiosity about her biological father, especially because her mom is so hush-hush about it. While investigating, she discovers that her father is part of a famous wrestling family living on a nearby New Mexico ranch. As Addy gets to know her father, Manny, her cousins, grandparents, and uncles, she learns that family can be complicated. This is a poignant, exciting, and heartrending middle grade book about  family secrets , wrestling culture, and identity.

One Last Shot

Published: May 5, 2020

One Last Shot  follows 12-year-old Malcolm who has an anxious streak and never feels good enough, especially for his dad. It doesn’t help that his parents are always arguing, and Malcolm is typically caught in the middle. Malcolm’s father loves competitive sports (especially baseball) and is disappointed when Malcolm decides to stop playing because he isn’t good at it and does not enjoy it. But he finds some respite when Malcolm becomes interested in miniature golf — and actually enjoys it. As usual, Malcolm’s father goes overboard, hiring a coach called Frank and signs Malcolm up for a tournament. The book alternates between the events of the tournament day and past events leading up to the tournament as Malcolm and Frank forge a sweet friendship, Malcolm befriends a smart girl named Lex, and his parents relationship deteriorates. I enjoyed this moving story of learning to listen to one’s inner voice.

Clues to the Universe

Published: January 12, 2021

Clues to the Universe  follows two kids, Ro and Benji. In this debut middle grade book told from two points of view, Ro and Benji become lab partners and form a pact to help each other achieve their goals. For Ro, that’s building the rocket she and her dad always meant to build before he died a year ago. And for Benji, it’s not getting a failing grade in science by tacking on to Ro’s science project. But when Benji discovers that a popular comic artist is his estranged father, Ro insists on helping Benji reunite with his father. This is a heartfelt middle grade debut about a sweet, unlikely friendship, STEM, the grief of losing a parent, and the joy of finding one.

Published: August 2, 2022

Five different students have yet to complete their community service for a school offense and must explain why (as well as what they did) to their principal. Thus, these five seemingly socially invisible kids each share from their perspectives how they got in trouble — and readers are definitely in for a ride. There’s George, the smart kid who is Latino but can’t speak Spanish; Sara, the loner; Dayara, the tough kid, Miguel, the baseball player; and Nico, the rich kid. The story is told in Spanish and English. It is a powerful, heartwarming graphic novel about immigration, homelessness, racism, and finding your tribe.

Louisiana’s Way Home

Published: October 2, 2018

In this companion to  Raymie Nightingale , Louisiana Elefante’s grandmother wakes her up in the middle of the night because “the day of reckoning has arrived.” Although Louisiana has always gone with her granny’s flow, this time, she resists. She doesn’t want to leave her friends and her cat, Archie behind. Still, her grandmother is adamant. What follows is an often-funny, occasionally heartbreaking, and all-round heartwarming tale. Louisiana is overall a more interesting character than Raymie was. She’s bursting with personality and has an offbeat sense of humor. I also enjoyed the development of both Louisiana’s and her granny’s character and this sequel didn’t at all seem forced as some can be. As a welcome bonus, the narrator of this audiobook is excellent — her Southern accent is spot-on and makes Louisiana come to life. This is especially useful in the mid-sections of the book which seem to lull a bit.

Honeybees and Frenemies

Published: June 4, 2019

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

Barakah Beats

Published: October 19, 2021

When Nimra joins public school after years in Islamic school, she’s not expecting to become 1/4th of Barakah Beats, a popular boy band in her school. But that’s what happens. When her BFF (at least to Nimra) stops acting so BFF-y after Nimra decides to wear her hijab to public school, Nimra is desperate to keep their friendship. Even if it means joining a boy band when it conflicts with her Islamic beliefs. Can Nimra find a way to use her voice without going against her values or hurting her new friends and bandmates? Barakah Beats  is an engaging middle grade book about balancing your faith with your passions while finding your tribe.

Miss Quinces

Published: May 3, 2022

RWhat if all you wanted for the summer was to go to camp with your best friends and draw comics in peace — BUT your parents thought it was better to go to Honduras, where they’re from, instead? That’s Sue’s dilemma in  Miss Quinces . And then, on top of that, she finds out that her family is throwing her a surprise Quincenera against her wish. Will Sue survive the summer? Miss Quinces  is an engaging, immersive graphic novel about identity,  Latin-American  culture, a  love for art , and family.

Amina’s Voice

Published: March 14, 2017

Amina has never been comfortable in the spotlight. She is happy just hanging out with her best friend, Soojin. Except now that she’s in middle school everything feels different. Soojin is suddenly hanging out with Emily, one of the “cool” girls in the class, and even talking about changing her name to something more “American.” Does Amina need to start changing too? Or hiding who she is to fit in? While Amina grapples with these questions, she is devastated when her local mosque is vandalized.

Hearts and Crafts: Squad Goals

Published: March 1, 2022

Squad Goals (Hearts & Crafts #1)  is the first in a new middle grade series about Mackenzie Miller, a new seventh-grader who calls herself a “maker.” Mackenzie loves projects especially when they involve crafting artsy things or planning things. After her parents’ divorce and her father’s remarriage, it’s just Kenzie and her mom and Kenzie wants her mom to find a boyfriend. Last year, her BFFs also dumped her and Kenzie is convinced she can try to win them back this year while working hard to make new friends. In the spirit of making, she quickly finds herself embroiled in a fundraiser to help get some of the Band kids in her school (she’s also in Band) new instruments. But can Mackenzie balance it all? Squad Goals (Hearts & Crafts #1)  is a relatable, enjoyable middle grade book about crafting, friendships, and letting others help you.

Miosotis Flores Never Forgets

Published: October 26, 2021

In  Miosotis Flores Never Forgets , young Miosotis biggest problem is getting her dad to let her get a dog. Papa insists that Miosotis score higher in Math and Science, even though she’s more of a B student. Soon, though, Miosotis’s woes begin to compound when she discovers that her sister Amarillis may be hiding something from their family. Can Miosotis save her sister? Miosotis Flores Never Forgets  is a realistic middle grade book about  the impact of domestic violence , identity, and culture.

The Supervillain’s Guide to Being a Fat Kid

Published: January 25, 2022

The Supervillain’s Guide to Being a Fat Kid  follows new sixth grader, Max. Max is fat and on his first day of school becomes a target for school bully and eighth-grader Johnny “Pro.” Max’s mom is a single mother and his only friend Luca is poor and wears worn hand-me-downs. When Max gets fed up with being bullied, he decides to write to imprisoned supervillain, Master Plan for advice and help. Master Plan comes up with a step-by-step guide to stop Max from being bullied and elevate his social status — maybe even helping him get closer to the girl he likes. But when Max’s fortune starts to change, it threatens his friendship with Luca. Worse still, he realizes that supervillains rarely offer help without needing something in exchange. This is a refreshing, action-packed middle grade novel about  body positivity , friendships, and  bullying . 

Join the Club, Maggie Diaz

Published: May 17, 2022

New seventh-grader Maggie Diaz is not the most organized person. But she’s trying to become her best self this school year so she can win her parents’ trust and get a new phone by the end of the year. She soon finds out that getting on honor roll is not that easy. Worse still, Maggie’s dealing with so many changes. Her best friends have joined after-school clubs to pursue their interests and have little or no time for Maggie (who can’t seem to find her interests). Since her Abuelo died, her Abuela has become her roommate and Maggie just wants some alone time! Will Maggie find her place and “join the club”? This is a lively, engaging debut (with illustrations!) about finding your place and passions when everyone else seems to be miles ahead in the game.

Twin Cities

Published: July 19, 2022

Twins Luisa and Fernando find their paths diverging as they enter sixth grade. Luisa will attend middle school in the US just across the border from Fernando’s school in Mexico. There, they face different but equally pressing challenges that threaten to tear them apart. win Cities  is a fascinating look into Mexican culture, life as a twin, and finding your own identity. 

Continental Drifter

Published: April 2, 2024

This is a poignant graphic memoir about a year in Kathy McCleod’s life. Kathy is half-Thai and half-American and has older parents than her peers. She constantly feels out of place throughout the year she recounts in the memoir, so when her father gives her a diary to document her feelings it feels like a much-needed outlet. She likes pizza and American food more than Thai food. In Thailand a neighbor thinks she isn’t American because she doesn’t have blonde hair and blue eyes. In Maine, her family spends more time together but she also feels like people view them differently because they’re mixed. As time passes, Kathy realizes that she’s not the only one who feels out of life and that it takes time to figure out who you want to be. This contemplative memoir will appeal to fans of  Almost-American Girl  and  Be Prepared .

Published: November 14, 2023

Claire is on vacation with both her parents in Maine, observing the widened rift between both of them as they go solo on activities, sometimes dragging her with either of them. Finally, her mom confesses to her that she’s planning on leaving her dad — exactly two seconds before she collapses due to a ruptured brain aneurysm. When Claire’s mom comes to, she doesn’t remember her last conversation with Claire and is forever changed emotionally and mentally. Now, Claire must cope with these changes while moving forward with the burden of her mom’s secret. This is a lovely verse novel with a book-loving protagonist who learns a lot about aneurysms after her mother’s experience. It will be invaluable to kids whose parents have experienced medical emergencies. There’s also a blossoming friendship with a boy, although it never progresses past platonic. Despite the age of its protagonists, this felt firmly middle grade to me.

The Dubious Pranks of Shaindy Goodman

Orthodox Jew Shaindy lives in a tight-knit Jewish community but feels invisible and socially inept. No one at school particularly dislikes her, but no one tries to befriend her or return her friendliness either. She envies her next-door neighbor Gayil who is beloved and excels academically, but she also wants to befriend and be Gayil. So when Gayil invites her to set up pranks on several students and teachers at their school, Shaindy is just happy to be in the inner circle. Unfortunately, the mischief quickly turns into something malicious as Shaindy realizes that Gayil’s pranks are designed to hurt her targets, and Shaindy is on the list of targets. This is an intricately plotted, strongly character-driven story about the inner lives of tween girls and the human emotions of envy. Although at times bogged down by detailed portrayals of Jewish tradition, this book is exceptionally engaging and truly unique.

The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry

Published: August 15, 2023

Juniper and her family live off the grid, and she loves it. Her mom has warned her that life in “society” is stressful, but Juniper’s older sister still wants to try living there. Unfortunately, regardless of the family’s desires, they all have to move to the nearest town when their youngest family member becomes seriously ill. Juniper’s dad even has to work to pay the hospital bills while the girls live with their uncle and his daughters, with surprising outcomes for Juniper and her family. This is a heartwarming story that delivers spot-on observations about acceptance, belonging, and social shape-shifting.

Published: September 19, 2023

It’s 1998 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. In the middle of the Sri Lankan Civil War, Kavi is dealing with her own personal upheavals. Her mother has remarried her father’s best friend after his death and is expecting a new baby. Meanwhile, Kavi is getting sent to the city on a scholarship to an elite private school. There, she starts telling lies about a life of wealth and grandeur– small at first, then bigger and bigger — to fit in with the rich kids until she begins to lose herself. I Am Kavi  is a touching verse novel about a young girl adapting to changes in her world and finding her voice amidst the Sri Lankan civil war.

  Published: November 21, 2023

This stunning graphic novel follows Cinzia, an Avvisi’s/newswriter’s apprentice living in sunny Sianerra. Cinzia and her mestra write news stories/pamphlets to the city, but not everyone likes it when they tell the truth. After an edition exposing the ruling family for extortion, Cinzia and her Mestra are arrested at night, and she has to join forces with the princess to fight back against censorship. Ink Girls  is a beautiful graphic novel about activism, speaking the truth, and speaking up despite censorship.

Published: May 9, 2023

Alex loves soccer and playing for her city’s Rec League. Her coach is nice, and she has many good friends on the team. But during one of the games, a coach from an elite league spots Alex and convinces her mom to let Alex play for his team. Her dad isn’t the picture, and their family finances are tight, so Alex wants a soccer scholarship shot for college in the future and accepts the offer. But when she starts playing for the team, she notices disturbing things like her coach verbally abusing the players, talking down to the girls because of their gender, and punishingly working them out when don’t perform to his standards. Her mom is too busy trying to please her boyfriend to notice. Can Alex and the team stand up to Coach Austin? This is a sporty, enjoyable, and inspiring middle grade book about sports spirit and standing up for oneself.

Maid for It

Published: September 5, 2023

After years of dealing with opioid addiction, Franny’s mom is finally sober and on the right track with a cleaning job and a cozy apartment upstairs from a laundromat. But then she gets in an accident and has to be prescribed opioids again, sending Franny into a frenzy. Franny starts doing her mom’s cleaning jobs behind her back — even blackmailing a school rival into working with her — to ensure they don’t run out of money. But she soon learns that worrying about adult problems isn’t her job. Maid for It  is an informative, gripping, and accessible middle grade book about living with a parent recovering from addiction.

Coop Knows the Scoop

Published: July 7, 202 0

When a dead body is found in Coop’s small town, he and his best friends Justice and Liberty are intrigued and want to help solve the mystery. But the stakes get even higher when Coop’s grandfather is accused of murdering the victim (who turned out to be Coop’s missing grandma!). Can Coop get the scoop on this mystery and save his grandfather before it’s too late? Coop Knows the Scoop  is a thrilling middle grade mystery with a rollercoaster of a narrative and seriously high stakes.

Which of these books for sixth graders have you read and enjoyed? And which other ones would you recommend?

More Books for 6th Graders

• Books for 11 year old boys
• Great books for 11 year olds
• My favorite graphic novels for 11 year olds
• Mystery books for 6th graders

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• About Afoma Umesi

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

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Reader Interactions

What do you think leave a comment cancel reply.

November 10, 2020 at 2:07 pm

I love Louisiana’s Way Home! 🙌

August 13, 2021 at 10:35 am

Love this list! My daughter is entering 6th grade next month! LOVED Greenglass House!

November 29, 2023 at 5:35 pm

Thank you SO MUCH for including COOP KNOWS THE SCOOP!!!

December 1, 2023 at 3:58 am

My pleasure, I loved it!

February 19, 2024 at 12:56 pm

yay so good

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Best Books for Sixth Graders

As tweens start figuring out the world and their place in it, well-told stories can help them explore different places, feelings, issues, and eras. Our list of engaging books for 11- and 12-year-olds has it all, from science fiction and exciting fantasy epics to funny middle school chronicles and gritty contemporary tales inspired by the headlines. It also has nonfiction books for kids who want their stories fact-filled. For more great books to help kids get hooked on reading, check out our lists of the Best Book Series for Tweens and Books Tweens and Teens Recommend to Friends .

Al Capone Does My Shirts: A Tale from Alcatraz, Book 1

Boy stands up for sister with autism in compassionate tale.

Gripping, must-read novel follows young soldiers on D-Day.

Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl

Inspiring wartime journal reveals teen's inner life.

The Apothecary, Book 1

Cold War kids use magic to save world in brilliant novel.

Avatar, The Last Airbender: The Rise of Kyoshi: The Kyoshi Novels, Book 1

Servant girl becomes mystical hero in fast-paced fantasy.

Bad Best Friend

Eighth grader withstands friend rejection in funny story.

Better Off Friends

Sweet, funny When Harry Met Sally romance for tweens.

The Boy on the Wooden Box

Moving memoir of boy Holocaust survivor on Schindler's list.

Chains: The Seeds of America Trilogy, Book 1

Powerful story of slavery in 1776 New York.

Tales of injustice masterfully blend with a dash of magic.

Everything Sad Is Untrue: (A True Story)

Young refugee's story is told in memories, myths, fables.

Goodbye Stranger

Bittersweet, lovely story of friendship and social media.

The Green Bicycle

Funny, poignant, cheer-worthy tale of spirited Saudi girl.

Tense, gripping WWII drama has powerful cost-of-war message.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince: Harry Potter, Book 6

Emotionally powerful volume book mines Voldemort's past.

Hold on tight for an intense tale of survival.

It's Trevor Noah: Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood

Comic's engaging memoir of growing up under Apartheid.

A Long Walk to Water

Touching take on Lost Boys of Sudan, based on true story.

March Forward Girl: From Young Warrior to Little Rock Nine

Must-read memoir of a childhood in the segregated South.

One Crazy Summer

A gem, with strong girl characters, '60s black history.

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The Best Books for Sixth Graders

If you’ve got a sixth grader at home, chances are they have a lot on their mind—from school, to activities, to social lives—finding a new favorite read may not be their number one priority… though we’d make the case it should at least be in the top five! 

Reading at this stage can expand your child’s perspective and help them develop greater empathy and understanding. Fast-paced, exciting stories will allow them to pinpoint the genres they truly love, while nonfiction and interactive books help open their world to new possibilities. 

Since access to engaging books through sixth grade and beyond might just be the key to your child’s lifelong reading habit, we’ve gathered some of our favorite titles. Here are Literati’s picks for the best books for sixth grade readers:

The Land of Roar

by Jenny McLachlan

It’s been years since Rose and Arthur traversed the folding bed in Grandad’s attic to their imaginary Land of Roar, but while cleaning the attic, Grandad himself gets pulled in! And if our readership is any indication, so will your middle-grade reader. With constant danger and intrigue, this gorgeously-illustrated story has proven time and time again to help develop consistent reading habits in budding fantasy-lovers.

Explorer Academy: The Nebula Secret

by Trudi Trueit

Forget book reports—at Explorer Academy, students are graded on their code-cracking, obstacle coursing, and virtual-reality explorations. But for new pupil Cruz, this elite school has a few more challenges up its sleeves. With solvable puzzles, Explorer Academy: The Nebula Secret is the perfect book for those who need a little brain challenge to stay engaged. Get your young scientist in on the journey, and give them Trudi Truett’s full-throttle adventure.

Women Who Dared: 52 Stories of Fearless Daredevils, Adventurers, and Rebels

by Linda Skeers

The daring and adventurous women who have shaped the world are often missing from history textbooks. Supplement your kid’s education with these stories of 52 women who fearlessly pushed boundaries. Read all about Helen Gibson, the first professional stuntwoman, or Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman in space! From action scenes to astronomical heights, this book covers a multitude of fields and interests, so no matter what your child loves to do, they’ll find tons of inspiration and motivation to challenge themselves. You may just want to invest in a helmet and some elbow pads for your adventurer once they finish this essential anthology of history’s toughest ladies.

Adventures in Engineering for Kids: 35 Challenges to Design the Future

by Brett Schilke

Adventures in Engineering asks an important question: without limits, what can kids create? The answer is pretty much anything and everything, including the first human settlement on another planet. This book recruits your child to an elite engineering team, the Irresistible Futures Agency. It’s their job to help design City X and solve the many challenges that lie ahead. With 35 design and engineering challenges, this is one of the best books for sixth-graders or seventh-graders who love science, puzzles, and making the impossible a reality.

by Daniel Weitzman

Oddonis is a son of Zeus. He’s surely odd—he doesn’t have powers like the rest of his family and even has webbed toes—but he’s also endearing. He and his friends at Mount Olympus Middle School are an ungodly group, but can they pull it together in time for a big school election? This mythological mix-up will put your own middle-schooler into giggling fits. As a perfect mix of Percy Jackson and Diary of a Wimpy Kid , this out-of-the-box read is a fun-filled introduction to epic myths—their English teacher will thank you!

The Lost Property Office

By James R. Hannibal

Jack’s got a knack for discovering all things lost and found. From scarves to books, Jack Buckles has a special gift for locating all of London’s abandoned treasures. But there’s one thing he can’t find—his long-lost father and sister. That is, until a few family secrets emerge. James R. Hannibal’s clever thriller is a top pick for readers who enjoy a bit of magic in their mystery. The whimsical London setting helps make this a fully immersive read, while challenging readers to link past and present.

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The books your child finds outside of the classroom will have a huge impact on whether they continue to seek out stories on their own. By laying the groundwork for steady reading habits, you’re setting them up for a lifetime of curiosity and learning—and Literati is here to help!

Literati curates book boxes on a reader-by-reader basis, to ensure that every child has access to enriching and age-appropriate stories. When you join Literati book clubs , curation experts take your reader’s specific level and interests into account to send premium titles they’re sure to love.  Get started with Literati’s personalization quiz , and watch your reader learn and grow with the very best titles out there for them.

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

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

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

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

The 30 Books Every 6th Grader Should Read

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

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

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

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

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

2) A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: A Wrinkle in Time Novel Unit

3) When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

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

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: When You Reach Me Novel Study

4) The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: The Lightning Thief Novel Study

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

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

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

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

6) A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett

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

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: A Little Princess Novel Study

7) Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

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

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: Stargirl Novel Study Unit

8) The 6th Grade Nickname Game by Gordon Korman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10) The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi

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

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

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

11) Blood on the River by Elisa Carbone

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: Blood on the River Novel Unit

12) The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

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

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: The Hunger Games Novel Study

13) Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

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

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: Fever 1793 Novel Study

14) War Horse by Micheal Morpurgo

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

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

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

Get the Novel Unit : War Horse Novel Guide

15) The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: The City of Ember Literature Unit

16) Refugee by Alan Gratz

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: Refugee Book Study

17) Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko

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

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

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

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

18) The Bicycle Spy by Yona Zeldis McDonough

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: The Bicycle Spy Novel Study

19) One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: One Crazy Summer Novel Study

20) The Giver by Lois Lowry

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: Rules Novel Unit

22) Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

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

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

Buy the Book: Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

23) My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George

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

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

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

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

24) The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart

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

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

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

25) Clayton Byrd Goes Underground by Rita Williams-Garcia

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: Clayton Byrd Goes Underground Novel Study

26) Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan

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

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

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

27) Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

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

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: Number the Stars Novel Study

28) Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen

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

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

Buy the Book: Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen

29) Stella by Starlight by Sharon Draper

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

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

Buy the Book: Stella by Starlight by Sharon Draper

30) So B. It by Sarah Weeks

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

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

Get the Novel Unit: So B. It Novel Study

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

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

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

Check out my Reading Lists for Other Grades Below

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55 Best 6th Grade Books to Read for Summer (Ages 11 – 12)

This post may contain affiliate links.

What are the best 6th grade books to read for summer that will keep your 6th grader (age 11-12) reading all summer long? The best way is to make sure they have a lot of excellent book choices — like the middle grade books on this list!

I’ve debated forever and finally chosen a selection of fantastic books in a variety of genres that your soon-to-be 6th graders will love.

The 6th grade books to read below are my top picks. This list of books for kids ages 11 and 12 are all books I’ve personally read and recommend. If you want to read the reviews for each book, visit this post of all the books for 6th graders . I’ve intentionally chosen a mix of new and somewhat new books so that you have options. Sometimes new books are expensive or hard to get at the library.

Next, let’s talk about motivation. it’s not always as easy to get 6th grade kids to read simply by having a good book. Kids are distracted by technology and activities and life and on and on.

What else can help motivate 6th grade kids to read?

• Choice  Let kids pick their own 6th grade books to read for summer reading. Even if it’s a choice within certain guidelines, it’s still a choice. No one likes to be forced to do anything, so the more autonomy kids can have, the better.
• Accountability If I didn’t require a certain amount of time reading, it wouldn’t happen with my tween. Even though she loves reading. Last summer, my kids tracked minutes reading to earn minutes on screen time. However you plan it, make sure you’re checking in on the reading, so it doesn’t get forgotten.
• Variety Think outside the traditional book here. Try ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, or blogs.
• Fun Get a new beanbag pillow just for reading. Read with headlamps in the dark. Whatever your kids like, see if you can pair it with reading.

I have the lists organized by genre. Consider picking one book from each genre to read this summer. That way, your almost 6th grade reader gets exposed to a wide variety of fiction.

Shop this 6th grade summer book list.

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.

Want to help your child be accountable for their reading? Get this  summer reading packet with goal setting, a genre graph, & book tracker .

You Might Also Like

• All reading lists by grade level
• 5th grade summer reading list
• 7th grade summer reading list
• Best books for 11-year olds
• Fun activity books for kids ages 9 – 12

Summer Reading: Engaging 6th Grade Books to Read

6th grade books for summer reading: graphic novels.

• Primer by Jennifer Muro and Thomas Krajewski
• Invisible  by Christina Diaz Gonzalez
• The Aquanaut by Dan Santat
• Cucumber Quest 1: The Doughnut Kingdom by Gigi D.G.
• Swim Team  by Johnnie Christmas
• Class Act by Jerry Craft
• Act by Kyla Miller
• Brave  by Svetlana Chmakova

6th Grade Books for Summer Reading List: FANTASY and SCI-FI

If you like fantasy and sci-fi books, you’ll like:

• Lightcasters  by Janelle McCurdy
• Hither and Nigh  by Ellen Potter
• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
• Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston
• The Shape of Time (Rymworld Arcana)   by Ryan Calejo
• Daughter of the Deep by Rick Riordan
• The Adventurers Guild by Zach Loran Clark and Nick Eliopulos
• Hana Hsu and the Ghost Crab Nation by Sylvia Liu
• Skyriders  by Polly Holyoke
• Beneath the Swirling Sky  by Carolyn Leiloglou
• Skandar and the Unicorn Thief   by A.F. Steadman

6th Grade Books to Read for Summer: ADVENTURE & MYSTERY

If you like mystery and adventure , you’ll love:

• The Van Gogh Deception by Deron Hicks
• 96 Miles by J.L. Esplin
• Framed! A T.O.A.S.T. Mystery by James Ponti
• The Canyon’s Edge by Dusti Bowling
• City Spies  by James Ponti
• Charlie Thorne and the Last Equation  by Stuart Gibb
• The Unforgettable Logan Foster by Shawn Peters
• Ali Cross  by James Patterson
• The Liar’s Society  by Alyson Gerber

6th Grade Books to Read for Summer: SCARY

If you like your stories to be a little creepy , try these books:

• Scritch Scratch by Lindsay Currie
• Coraline  by Neil Gaiman
• Lockwood & Co The Screaming Staircase   by Jonathan Stroud
• A Tale of Dark and Grimm   by Adam Gidwitz
• Ophie’s Ghost by Justina Ireland
• Zombie Season  by Justin Weinberger
• Brick Dust and Bones  by M.R. Forunet

6th Grade Summer Reading List: HISTORICAL FICTION

If you like historical fiction , you’ll love:

• Allies  by Alan Gratz
• Becoming Muhammad Ali by James Patterson and Kwame Alexander
• Voyage of the Sparrowhawk by Natasha Farrant
• Traitors Among Us  by Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch
• Lifeboat 12  by Susan Hood
• Max in the House of Spies: A Tale of World War II  by Adam Gitwitz
• Words on Fire   by Jennifer A. Nielsen

6th Grade Summer Reading List: REALISTIC

If you enjoy reading realistic books , read these:

• How to Stay Invisible  by Maggie C. Rudd
• Starfish by Lisa Fipps
• From the Desk of Zoe Washington  by Janae Marks
• Before the Ever After by Jacqueline Woodson
• Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling
• Sing It Like Celia  written by Mónica Mancillas
• Finally Seen  by Kelly Yang
• Out of My Mind   by Sharon Draper
• Shark Teeth  by Sherri Winston
• The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman written by Gennifer Gholdenko

6th Grade Books for Summer Reading: FUNNY

Looking for funny 6th grade books ? Try:

• The Last Last Day of Summer  by Lamar Giles
• The Jolly Regina: The Unintentional Adventures of the Bland Sisters by Kara LaReau
• Strange Case of the Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger
• Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts
• The Croc Ate My Homework  by Stephan Pastis
• The Great Treehouse War   by Lisa Graff

6th Grade Books for Summer Reading: NONFICTION

If you’re looking for a good nonfiction book , try these:

• The Boy Who Became a Dragon: A Bruce Lee Story by Jim Di Bartolo
• The Mayflower (History Smashers) by Kate Messner
• The Superpower Field Guide Eels by Rachel Poliquin
• The Girl Who Fought Back  by Joshua M. Greene
• Wild Outside Around the World with Survivorman  by Les Stroud
• Almanac 202 5  National Geographic Kids
• Atlas Obscura Explorer’s Guide for The World’s Most Adventurous Kid  by Dylan Thuras and Rosemary Mosco
• The Deep! Wild Life at the Ocean’s Darkest Depths  by Lindsey Leigh
• A Day in the Life of an Astronaut, Mars, and the Distant Stars  by Mike Barfield and Jess Bradley

I hope these books give your children enough excellent choices and lots of hours of reading!

Don’t forget to find ways to make reading FUN! Here are some ideas for your 6th graders:

Participate in a summer reading program.

Read with a headlamp in bed.

Read on an electronic device. ( Free eBooks ?)

Start a book club .

Reward reading with . . . more BOOKS! (Kids choose, of course.)

Read nonfiction books and  graphic novels , too.

KEEP READING

Good Book Series for 6th Grade

Read Aloud Books for 6th Grade

All Book Reviews for Kids Age 11

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 do not see a link for the printable version of the 6th grade list (like the neatly columned 7th and 8th grade lists)….

I’m sorry about that — my forms have stopped working. Here you go: https://imaginationsoup.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/6th-grade-summer-reading-list.pdf

So helpful! I just wish there was a romance section. Besides that, awesome list!

I’m not a fan of romance as you might have noticed. Do you have any favorites? Maybe I’ll give one a try.

Hi! I am a new 6th grade teacher coming from 3rd grade. I would love a printable version of your 6th grade list if you wouldn’t mind! I found the links for the 5th and 7th grades and I found them so helpful when trying to set up my new classroom. Thank you so much for sharing! Danielle

Hi! The link is at the top of the page.

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42 Creative Book Report Ideas for Students

Inspire your students to share their love of books.

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

1. Concrete Found Poem

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

2. Graphic Novel

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

3. Book Snaps

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

4. Diary Entry

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

5. Pizza Box Book Report

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

6. Book Jacket

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

7. Mint Tin Book Report

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

8. Fictional Yearbook Entries

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

9. Book Report Cake

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

10. Current Events Comparison

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

11. Sandwich Book Report

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

12. Book Alphabet

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

13. Peekaboo Book Report

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

14. Act the Part

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

15. T-shirt Book Report

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

16. Bookmark

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

17. Rays of Sunshine Book Report

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

18. Reading Lists for Characters

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

19. Character To-Do List

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

20. Collage

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

21. Book Reports in a Bag

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

22. Timeline

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

23. File Folder Book Report

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

24. Public Service Announcement

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

25. Triorama Book Report

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

26. Character Cards

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

27. Book Report Mobile

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

28. Fact Sheet

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

29. Dodecahedron Book Report

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

30. Be a Character Therapist

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

31. Charm Bracelet Book Report

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

32. Mind Maps

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

33. Book Report Booklets

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

34. Letter to the Author

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

35. Cardboard Box TV

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

36. Board games

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

37. Foldables

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

38. Timeline

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

39. Comic Strips

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

40. Movie Version

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

41. Wanted Poster

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

42. Wheaties Box Book Report

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

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

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

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Books about difficult periods of history and complex characters are an excellent entry point to a productive class discussion. This list of best-selling books will encourage your students to think more deeply about important topics like friendship , courage , and acceptance. These stories are a fantastic addition to the classroom library and will help your students build important reading skills like reading comprehension. 

For instance, Show Me a Sign: Sail Me Away Home  is a gripping story inspired by the history of a deaf community in the early 19th century. Readers will follow the journey of deaf heroine, Mary Lambert, while learning about the history and culture of Deaf and Hard of Hearing, disabled, and marginalized youth. Spark further conversation in your classroom with this  Ann Clare LeZotte discussion guide , which includes discussion questions and extension activities for each of the three books in the Show Me a Sign trilogy.

Meanwhile,  Front Desk features a Chinese-American protagonist, Mia, and her experiences growing up with immigrant parents who work at a motel that treats them unfairly. Mia secretly helps her parents with work while attending school — while dealing with bullies and racist remarks. This story has many lessons about resiliency and responsibility . 

Shop best-selling books for grades 6-8 below! You can find all books and activities at The Teacher Store . 

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10 Book Report Ideas That Kids Will Love

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

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

Here are 10 book report ideas that kids will love:

1. cereal box book report.

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

2. Paper Bag Book Report

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

3. Character Day

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

4. Book Report Lap Book

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

5. Book Scene Diorama

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

6. Book Report Posters

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

7. Book Report Mobiles

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

8. Book Report Mini Books

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

In these clever book projects , students identify:

• Title/Author
• Main Character

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

9. Design a Book Jacket

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

10. Ready-to-Print Templates

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

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

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

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

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

To recap, the 10 Book Report Project Ideas are:

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

Shelly Rees

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

Hi, I'm Shelly

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K-12 School Reading List

Recommended reading books for elementary, middle & high school students

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

6th grade reading books for children aged 11-12

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

Books for Grade 6 – our recommendations

Jennifer chan is not alone by tae keller.

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

The Doorman’s Repose by Chris Raschka

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

The Door of No Return by Kwame Alexander

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

The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera

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

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

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

Small Spaces by Katherine Arden

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

Mystery | Horror

The Call Of The Wild by Jack London

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

Holes by Louis Sachar

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

Mystery | Middle grade novel

Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech

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

Family | Middle grade novel

Black Beauty by Anna Sewell

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

Classic | Animal story

Space Case by Stuart Gibbs

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

Science fiction

My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George

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

Adventure | Classic

Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper

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

Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume

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

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodson Burnett

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

The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper

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

Princess Academy by Shannon Hale

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

School story

Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell

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

The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden

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

Animal story

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

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

School story | Middle grade novel

Escape from Mr Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein

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

Humor | Mystery

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson

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

Diverse | Historical

Midnight Without a Moon by Linda Williams Jackson

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

Historical | Diverse

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

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

Ghost by Jason Reynolds

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

Divserse | Middle-grade novel

Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova

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

Graphic novel

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D Taylor

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

Historical | Classic

To Catch a Cheat by Varian Johnson

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

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

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

Fantasy | Horror

The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies

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

Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk

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

The Secret of the Fortune Wookiee by Tom Angleberger

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

School story | Humor

The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare

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

The 50 States by Gabrielle Balkan

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

Non fiction

Beetle Boy by MG Leonard

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

Mystery | Fantasy

Merriam-Webster’s Intermediate Dictionary

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

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

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The 10 Best 6th Grade Books to Read

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The 6th grade can be a confusing and turbulent time for many kids. During those middle school years, tweens are beginning to make sense of the world and find their feet within it. 

AT A Glance: Our Top 5 Picks for 6th Grade Books

• Before the Ever After by Jacqueline Woodson – Our Top Pick
• We Dream of Space by Erin Entrada Kelly
• The List of Things That Will Not Change by Rebecca Stead
• King and the Dragonflies by Kacen Callender
• Hollowpox: The Hunt for Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend

Books can be an incredible tool during this time. They help  kids  to explore their own ideas and opinions and develop self-awareness, curiosity, empathy, and creativity. But it’s important that they’re reading the  right  books. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of engaging reads that 11 and 12 year olds will love. 

Some of these books will appeal to their sense of adventure, others will introduce them to new cultures and ways of life, and all of them will inspire a love of reading that will hopefully stay with them throughout middle school and beyond. 

Table of Contents

Best Books for 6th Graders 

1. Before the Ever After by Jacqueline Woodson  

All throughout ZJ’s childhood, his father was celebrated and admired by everyone. As a professional football star, he had millions of adoring fans, but his real-life family and friends loved him even more. He was charming, funny and generous, and always ready to lend a helping hand. 

But recently, ZJ has noticed a worrying change in his dad. He’s started forgetting things, important things, and he’s begun losing his temper in ways he never has before. 

When he shared his worries with his mom, she explains that during his dad’s long career, like most professional football stars, he suffered a lot of head injuries. These injuries have begun to take their toll, and ZJ’s father has been left with brain damage. 

Although he understands  why  his dad has changed so much, it’s still hard for ZJ to accept that the father he grew up with is not the same father he lives with now. He forgets more and more each day, and his memories of his glory days on the field are all but gone. Sometime’s he can’t even remember ZJ’s name. 

This moving novel in verse explores what happens when a family’s golden years are behind them, and they’re forced to move forward on uncertain ground. 

2. We Dream of Space by Erin Entrada Kelly  

January of 1986 was an exciting time for the Nelson Thomas siblings; the space shuttle Challenger launch is mere weeks away, and thanks to their enthusiastic science teacher Ms. Salonga, they’re awaiting it with bated breath. 

Her brothers are excited about the launch, but twelve year old Bird is beside herself with anticipation. When she grows up, her dream is to become NASA’s first-ever female shuttle controller, and so this huge event in space history is a major milestone in her own life. 

But the Nelson Thomas siblings also have other things on their minds. Their life at home is tense and unpredictable, and each one of them wishes they could get away and find a brighter future of their own. 

Cash adores basketball and idolizes his hero Dr. J, but his schoolwork is anything but heroic, and he’s ready to flunk seventh grade for the second time. Fitch struggles with his emotions and lets his explosive temper get the better for him all too often. And meanwhile, Bird feels like she’s disappearing into the background of her own life. The one thing that’s helping her going is the upcoming Challenger launch. This momentous event means everything to Bird, but when that fated day arrives, everything changes. 

3. The List of Things That Will Not Change by Rebecca Stead

Since Bea’s parents divorced, her life has been turned upside down. Everything changed so quickly, and things aren’t ever going back to how they used to be. But thankfully, in her trusty little green notebook, she has a list of things that will stay the same. The first thing on the list? No matter what, her mom and dad will always love her. 

Her dad has a new partner now, a great guy named Jesse, who Bea loves. So when her dad announces that the two of them are getting married, she’s over the moon. Plus, Jesse has a daughter named Sonia, and now that they are getting hitched, Sonia and Bea will be stepsisters. 

Bea has always longed for a sister of her own, and she sees it as a dream come true. But there’s just one problem; Bea has never even met Sonia. How can she be sure that they’ll get on? As the big day draws near, Bea must come to terms with her own worries about the future. Forging a new family raises a lot of questions and uncertainty, but also a whole lot of happiness too. 

4. King and the Dragonflies by Kacen Callender

Kingston James is just twelve years old when his brother Khalid tragically passes away. All around him, his family is reeling in grief, but King thinks he knows something they don’t. He’s pretty sure that when his brother died, his soul didn’t die too; instead, he was transformed into a dragonfly, and now he lives down by the bayou right there in his rural Louisiana hometown. 

Khalid even visits King in his dreams, letting him know that he’s still there. But King knows he can’t share these secrets with his family, they just wouldn’t understand. He wishes he could talk to his best friend Sandy, but that’s not so easy either. See, just a few days before he died, Khalid told King that Sandy has a secret and that he should end their friendship immediately. “Sandy is gay,” he said, “You don’t want anyone to think you’re gay too, do you?”

But one day, Sandy goes missing. The whole town is searching for him, but it’s Khalid who first discovers his friend. Zipped up in a tent in his backyard, Sandy is hiding from his abusive father, terrified and desperate to escape. Khalid agrees to help, and the two of them head down to the bayou to build a new secret paradise for themselves, amongst the dragonflies. 

As Khalid reassesses his own prejudices, the boy’s friendship begins to heal. But can he face up to the truth about his brother’s death?

5. Hollowpox: The Hunt for Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend  

It’s been a whole year since Morrigan Crow and her friends joined the elite Wundrous Society. In that time, they’ve already helped to overthrow the notorious Ghastly Market, proving themselves to be valuable assets not only to their unit but to their entire home city of Nevermoor. 

But now Morgan faces a much bigger challenge; to become a master of the Wretched Arts and harness her own inner power. 

A terrifying disease they call Hollowpox has swept across Nevermoor, transforming the population into vicious wild animals. Now, it’s up to Morrigan to find a cure. While the rest of the city is paralyzed by fear and panic, she knows she’s the only one with the ability to save them all. But can she summon the courage and the strength she needs?

6. Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley  

Della idolizes her older sister, Suki. She’s always been there for her, especially over the past few years when things have been so tough. 

It all began when their mom was sent to prison. Since the girls had nowhere else to go, they were forced to move in with their mother’s boyfriend. But soon after, the boyfriend did something terrible, and the girls had no choice but to flee fast. Throughout all of this, Suki was there, holding Della’s hand, protecting her, and reminding her that everything would be ok. 

But deep down, Suki doesn’t feel so strong. There was nobody to hold  her  hand throughout all of this, and finally, she reaches breaking point and attempts to take her own life. Della is floored. She never expected that underneath it all, Suki was falling to pieces just like her. Now, it’s Della’s turn to be the strong one, to hold her sister’s hand through the darkness and bring her out into the light. 

7. From the Desk of Zoe Washington by Janae Marks  

Zoe Washington has never known her father. He’s been locked up in prison her whole life after committing a terrible crime. But on the day of the twelfth birthday, Zoe receives an unexpected letter from him that changes everything. He wants her to know that he is innocent, that he never committed the crime he is accused of. 

But should Zoe believe her father? After all, she’s never even met him, so how can she trust that he’s telling her the truth? 

Zoe tries her best to focus on her bakery internship. Baking has always been her passion, but it suddenly seems insignificant. She can’t shake the feeling that her father might be innocent, and so she vows to investigate things for herself, all the while keeping it a secret from the rest of her family. They’ve all noticed that Zoe is behaving strangely, but everyone assumes that she’s just nervous about the upcoming Kids Bake Challenge. 

Can she uncover the truth, or is her father’s innocence just wishful thinking? Zoe doesn’t know, but one thing is for sure; everyone, even her family, lies sometimes. 

8. When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller  

Lilly has only just moved into her sick grandmother’s house when a mysterious and magical tiger arrives, just like the ones she’s read about in the old Korean folktales. 

When her grandmother, her Halmoni, hears about the tiger, she lets Lilly into a secret. Many years ago, she stole something precious from the tigers and sealed it tightly away in some old jars. Now, they’ve come to take it back.

The tiger offers Lilly a deal; return the stolen object to its rightful home, and they will grant her Halmoni perfect health. Lilly isn’t sure what to do for the best. On the one hand, she’s tempted to accept the tiger’s offer. Her grandmother is sick, and she needs a miracle, fast. But on the other hand, she knows in her heart that tigers aren’t to be trusted. 

And so, with the help of her friend Ricky and her sister Sam, Lilly builds a tiger trap in the basement, using a stack of old boxes she finds down there. In one of those boxes, she discovers some jars, and sure enough, they contain what the tiger is looking for; ancient stories from the stars. 

Now, Lilly must find the courage she needs to face up to the tiger and conclude a family legacy that stretches into the cosmos. 

9. Everything Sad Is Untrue by Daniel Nayeri

Khosrou stands nervously in front of his classmates at his Oklahoma middle school, trying to tell his story. His beautiful and terrifying tale begins with his family’s exodus from Iran and stretches back through the centuries to the time of his ancestors in the glittering city of Isfahan in ancient Persia. 

But non of the other students believe a word he says. To them, Khosrou (who they call Daniel) is just a strange boy with dark skin and a funny accent who doesn’t fit in with the rest of the kids at all. 

This heartwrenching yet spellbinding tale of a young refugee’s harrowing journey to America challenges the western narrative and transports young readers into an ancient history full of kings and queens, myths and legends. 

And, it’s all true. Author Daniel Nayeri is the protagonist, and he’s ready to share his story with an audience who will listen.

10. Echo Mountain by Lauren Wolk

Growing up in Depression-era Maine has not been easy for Ellie. Her family has lost everything they had after the great financial crash, including their home. Now, they’re forced to start over and reclaim their lives in the harsh Echo Mountain terrain. 

Ellie’s sister Esther despises their new life on the mountain, but Ellie sees things a little differently. She has a newfound sense of wonder and connection with the natural world that she has never felt before. 

But things are tough for all of them, even Ellie. The family is reeling in the aftermath of a terrible accident that left their father comatose, and Ellie wrongfully blames herself for what happened. Now, she’s determined to help her father in any way she can. Along with her trusty canine companion, Ellie climbs to the top of Echo Mountain in search of a mysterious woman known as “The Hag.” This woman is rumored to be a healer, and Ellie hopes she’ll have the cure that will bring her father back. 

But the mountain reveals untold stories that teach Ellie more than she could’ve ever imagined.

The 6th grade is a wonderful time in any  young reader’s journey . Books aimed at this age group open up brand new ideas and challenge kids to see the world differently. The stories above will delight, surprise, and captivate 6th graders and hopefully have them ‘hooked to books’ for years to come. 

Do you have any recommendations for great reads for 6th graders? What did I miss? Let me know in the comments below! 

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How to Write a 6th Grade Book Report

Writing a book report can be an exciting opportunity for 6th graders to delve into a new story and express their thoughts and opinions about it. However, it can also be a challenging task, especially for those who are just beginning to develop their writing skills. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing a 6th grade book report, providing you with tips, guidelines, and examples to help you create an outstanding report.

1. Read the Book Carefully Before you begin writing your book report, read the book thoroughly, paying attention to the characters, plot, and key themes. Take notes as you read, highlighting important passages or quotes that you may want to include in your report.

2. Understand the Requirements Familiarize yourself with the requirements of your assignment. Read the instructions provided by your teacher to understand what elements should be included in your report, such as the length, format, and specific questions you need to answer.

3. Start with an Introduction Begin your book report by introducing the book and its author. Include relevant information, such as the title, publication date, and a brief summary of the plot. You can also mention the genre or any awards the book has received.

4. Summarize the Plot In the body of your book report, summarize the main events of the story. Focus on the key moments and explain how they contribute to the overall plot. Be concise and avoid giving away too many spoilers, as the purpose of your report is to engage the reader and encourage them to read the book themselves.

5. Discuss the Characters Next, analyze the main characters in the book. Describe their personalities, motivations, and development throughout the story. You can also mention any relationships or conflicts between characters and explain how they impact the plot.

6. Explore the Themes Identify and discuss the main themes or messages conveyed in the book. Themes can be moral lessons, social issues, or personal growth. Support your analysis with examples from the text, such as quotes or specific scenes.

7. Evaluate the Writing Style Evaluate the author’s writing style and the effectiveness of their storytelling techniques. Comment on the language used, the pacing of the story, and the author’s ability to engage the reader. Explain how these elements contribute to your overall enjoyment or understanding of the book.

8. Share Your Opinion Express your personal opinion about the book. Did you enjoy it? Why or why not? What were your favorite parts, and what could have been improved? Back up your opinions with specific examples and explain how the book has influenced your own thoughts or feelings.

9. Conclusion End your book report with a concluding paragraph summarizing your main points. Restate your overall opinion of the book and provide a final thought or recommendation. Encourage your readers to give the book a chance and explain why it is worth their time.

Q: How long should a 6th grade book report be? A: The length of a 6th grade book report may vary depending on the specific requirements provided by your teacher. However, a general guideline is to aim for around 500-800 words. Make sure to check with your teacher for any specific word count expectations.

Q: Can I use quotes from the book in my report? A: Yes, using quotes from the book can add credibility and support to your analysis. However, be selective and choose quotes that are relevant and impactful. Make sure to properly cite the quotes using the author’s name and page number.

Q: Do I need to include a bibliography or works cited page? A: In most cases, a 6th grade book report does not require a full bibliography or works cited page. However, if you use external sources or references, make sure to include proper citations within the text of your report.

Q: Can I include spoilers in my book report? A: While it is important to provide a summary of the plot, try to avoid giving away major spoilers that could ruin the reading experience for others. Focus on the main events and key moments without revealing too much about the ending or major plot twists.

Q: How should I structure my book report? A: A typical structure for a 6th grade book report includes an introduction, body paragraphs discussing the plot, characters, themes, and writing style, and a conclusion summarizing your main points. However, always follow the specific structure and guidelines provided by your teacher.

Writing a 6th grade book report can be an enjoyable and educational experience. By following these guidelines and tips, you will be able to analyze a book thoroughly and express your thoughts and opinions effectively. Remember to read the book carefully, understand the requirements, and provide a well-structured and thoughtful report. Happy reading and writing!

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Best Books For 6th Grade Girls: Must-Read List

We’ve put together a list of the best books for 6th grade girls including everything from fantasy to historical fiction to your next favourite book series.

At this grade level, reading can be more than just an assignment; it can be an adventure, a road to self-discovery, and a great way to spend time with best friends or family. Our list aims to cater to a variety of interests – whether you’re into graphic novels, historical fiction, or just a good book that you can’t put down.

We’ve organized this guide into specific sections that explore different types of books. Whether you’re a young girl looking for relatable main characters or parents seeking the perfect book for your 6th grade girl, we’ve got you covered. From best books to favourite books, we’ll give you a rundown on what’s popular, impactful, and just plain fun.

So, whether you’re tackling a new school year, looking for a great book for a book report, or just searching for some awesome reading material, read on. We’ve even included some tips for busy middle schoolers on how many books to consider reading during the school year.

What Books Every 6th Grade Girl Should Read?

With so many options, where should 6th graders even begin? No worries—we’ve got a stellar book list ready to make your reading experience a memorable one. These books are handpicked for their developmental benefits , such as improving empathy, boosting confidence, and broadening perspectives.

The Benefits

Before we dive into our list of books, let’s quickly talk about why these reads are beneficial for 6th graders. For one, a good book can help young readers understand complex feelings and situations, offering a safe way to explore new ideas. They can also introduce 6th grade girls to strong and diverse main characters, helping them to see a reflection of themselves or learn about others in the world around them.

• “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio – A powerful story about a young boy with a facial difference navigating a new school. This is a fantastic read for 6th graders to cultivate empathy and understanding.
• “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling – If you haven’t introduced your 6th grade girl to the magical world of Harry Potter, now’s the time. It’s the first book in a series that offers great themes of friendship and courage.
• “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery – A timeless classic that transports readers to the beautiful landscape of Prince Edward Island. It revolves around Anne, an imaginative young girl who finds a new life with her adoptive parents.
• “Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan – Perfect for 6th graders interested in mythology. The main character, Percy, discovers he’s a demigod and must find Zeus’ stolen lightning bolt.
• “Roller Girl” by Victoria Jamieson – This graphic novel is perfect for fans of strong, independent girls and roller derby. The main character learns about hard work, friendship, and belonging.
• “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson – A heartwarming story about two best friends, Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke, who create their own magical kingdom. It’s a Newbery Honor book that deals with friendship and loss.
• “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins – For those who love dystopian settings, this book is a must-read. It’s perfect for older 6th graders and explores themes of survival and social injustice.
• “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo – A touching story about a young girl who moves to a new town and adopts a stray dog, leading to friendships and a sense of community.
• “The Giver” by Lois Lowry – A thought-provoking book that transports 6th graders to a seemingly perfect society, only to unravel its dark secrets.
• “Matilda” by Roald Dahl – A favourite book for many, this tale showcases a young girl’s journey from neglect to realizing her extraordinary abilities, thanks to some caring individuals.

What Classic Books Should a 6th Grader Read?

These books have stood the test of time and continue to captivate readers generation after generation. Introducing classics to 6th graders can be incredibly rewarding. Not only do these books offer rich language and storytelling, but they also introduce young readers to universal themes and life lessons that are just as relevant today.

Why Start Early?

Reading classics in the sixth grade is like opening a treasure chest of timeless wisdom. These stories offer layers of meaning that can be revisited as a reader grows, making the experience richer each time. Plus, getting familiar with classics early on can make high school literature classes less intimidating!

Adaptations For Younger Readers

Worried some classics might be a little too dense? The good news is there are many adaptations designed for younger readers, preserving the essence of the original work while making it accessible for a 6th-grade reading level. So, don’t rule out “War and Peace” just yet!

• “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee (Adapted Versions Available) – This book explores racial inequality in the United States. Though the subject matter is heavy, the perspective of young Scout Finch makes it accessible and highly educational for sixth graders.
• “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott – This book offers strong female characters and a close-knit family dynamic. It’s a great way for 6th-grade girls to learn about the lives of young women in a different time period.
• “Treasure Island” by Robert Louis Stevenson – Pirates, treasure maps, and adventure—what’s not to love? This is a perfect book to spark the imagination and teach a lesson or two about loyalty and hard work.
• “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett – This enchanting story about a neglected garden and two lonely children teaches powerful lessons about friendship and the magic of nature.
• “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery – Yes, it appears again because it’s that good. Anne is a character that many 6th-grade girls find relatable, with themes of friendship and self-discovery at its core.
• “Black Beauty” by Anna Sewell – This is not just a horse story; it’s a tale about kindness, hard times, and the importance of treating all living beings with respect.
• “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll – This whimsical story helps stretch the imagination and can serve as an introduction to the absurd and the fantastical.
• “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White – Though often read in earlier grades, this story of friendship and sacrifice has layers of meaning that older kids can appreciate too.
• “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” by Mark Twain – A lively tale set along the Mississippi River, this book offers a snapshot of American life during the late 1800s.
• “The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame – This charming story about anthropomorphic animals is a great book for sixth graders to explore themes of friendship and adventure.

What Are Good Chapter Books for 6th Grade Girls?

Let’s talk chapter books. As 6th graders, you’re probably no stranger to these longer reads. Chapter books have the magical ability to keep readers hooked for days, if not weeks, allowing for more complex plots and character development compared to early chapter books.

The Perks of Chapter Books

Chapter books are like mini-series in print form; they offer a chance to follow a main character or a set of favourite characters through a range of adventures, experiences, or challenges. They allow for a richer reading experience and can cover a variety of genres, from mystery and fantasy to realistic fiction and historical stories.

A Genre for Everyone

Whether you love being transported to magical worlds or diving into the lives of relatable young girls and boys, there’s likely a chapter book out there just for you. We have compiled a list of chapter books that are not only captivating but also diverse in genre.

The Recommendations

• “The Mysterious Benedict Society” by Trenton Lee Stewart – This book is for those who love puzzles and mysteries. Four gifted children are selected for a secret mission and must use their intellect and courage to save the world.
• “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” by Jeff Kinney – This book speaks to the inner awkward middle school student in all of us. It’s relatable, funny, and perfect for reluctant readers.
• “A Series of Unfortunate Events” by Lemony Snicket – Dark but delightful, this series takes readers through the tumultuous lives of the Baudelaire orphans as they evade the nefarious Count Olaf.
• “The Penderwicks” by Jeanne Birdsall – A beautiful story of four sisters and their summer adventures, this book is an ode to classic children’s literature but with a modern twist.
• “Holes” by Louis Sachar – Stanley Yelnats is sent to a juvenile detention center but finds that hard work and friendship can uncover more than just holes in the ground.
• “The Crossover” by Kwame Alexander – Written in verse, this National Book Award winner explores the lives of twins Josh and Jordan as they navigate basketball, family, and growing up.
• “The City of Ember” by Jeanne DuPrau – In a city running out of light, it’s up to two twelve-year-olds to find the only way to save their home.
• “Frindle” by Andrew Clements – Who knew a pen could be so exciting? This story is about a young boy who invents a new word and sees it become a nationwide sensation.
• “Walk Two Moons” by Sharon Creech – This Newbery Honor book takes readers on a young girl’s emotional journey to understand her mother’s disappearance.
• “The Girl Who Drank the Moon” by Kelly Barnhill – Filled with magic and wonder, this book features a young girl who gains incredible powers from moonlight, setting her on a path to confront dark forces.

Best Book Series for 6th Grade Girls

If you’ve ever reached the end of a good book and thought, “I wish there was more,” then book series are your new best friends. There’s something incredibly satisfying about following characters through multiple adventures, right?

Why Series Are Awesome

Series offer a chance for character and plot development that can’t typically be accomplished in a single book. They offer a wonderful way to escape reality and get lost in a familiar world for an extended period. Plus, if you’re falling in love with the main character or a whole cast of characters, why not spend three, four, or even more books with them?

Popular Picks for 6th Grade Girls

Here are some popular book series that have charmed the hearts of many 6th-grade girls:

• “Harry Potter” by J.K. Rowling – What’s not to love about a young boy discovering he’s a wizard and his adventures at Hogwarts? Ideal for 6th graders who love magic and the battle between good and evil.
• “Percy Jackson & The Olympians” by Rick Riordan – This series is a great way to learn about Greek mythology while following Percy Jackson’s quests and adventures.
• “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins – Set in a dystopian world, Katniss Everdeen volunteers for the annual Hunger Games to save her younger sister. A powerful story of survival and resistance.
• “Dork Diaries” by Rachel Renée Russell – Follow Nikki Maxwell’s humorous adventures in middle school, dealing with best friends and social media, in this fun-filled series.
• “The Babysitters Club” by Ann M. Martin – This series is an oldie but a goodie. It’s all about friendship, hard work, and the challenges and rewards of running a business at a young age.
• “Anne of Green Gables” Series by Lucy Maud Montgomery – After the first book, Anne’s adventures continue as she grows up, making this series perfect for 6th-grade girls to follow over a couple of years.
• “His Dark Materials” by Philip Pullman – A young girl named Lyra embarks on an epic journey through parallel universes. Great for those who enjoy more complex themes and a touch of philosophy.
• “Wings of Fire” by Tui T. Sutherland – If you love dragons, then this series is for you. It’s all about young dragonets who may be destined to end a brutal war.
• “A Series of Unfortunate Events” by Lemony Snicket – Yes, it’s worth mentioning again for series lovers. The Baudelaire siblings navigate misadventures and mysteries while evading the wicked Count Olaf.
• “Warriors” by Erin Hunter – Follow the lives of feral cats as they strive to survive and protect their clans. Perfect for animal lovers and those who enjoy stories about loyalty and bravery.

Best Short Books for 6th Grade Girls

If you’re juggling homework, extracurriculars, and social life, you might be thinking, “Who has time for a lengthy novel?” No worries, shorter books can be just as impactful as their longer counterparts!

The Magic of Short Books

Length doesn’t dictate the quality of a book. Short books are perfect for those times when you want a complete story in a single sitting. They can be particularly great for reluctant readers who might find a hefty tome a bit intimidating. Plus, they can deliver powerful stories or introduce you to great themes and main characters in a concise format.

Perfect Quick Reads for 6th Grade Girls

Ready to add some quick but fulfilling reads to your book list? Here we go!

• “The Giver” by Lois Lowry – Dive into a world where everything seems perfect, but a young boy discovers the dark truth. This Newbery Honor book packs a lot into its modest page count.
• “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson – Follow the friendship of Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke as they create a magical kingdom. It’s a short but powerful story about friendship and loss.
• “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White – A young girl and a pig named Wilbur explore themes of friendship and sacrifice. Perfect if you’re an animal lover!
• “The Tale of Despereaux” by Kate DiCamillo – If you’re into fairytales and adventures, this book about a brave mouse is an excellent quick read.
• “Maniac Magee” by Jerry Spinelli – This is a fast-paced story about a young boy trying to find a home while breaking down racial barriers. It’s perfect for a thoughtful afternoon read.
• “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo – Ever thought a dog could change your life? This book explores friendship and community, all wrapped up in a few hundred pages.
• “Sideways Stories from Wayside School” by Louis Sachar – Perfect for those who love humor and quirky tales. Meet the unusual students and staff in a 30-story high school!
• “Sarah, Plain and Tall” by Patricia MacLachlan – This book tells the story of a young girl and her brother getting to know their new adoptive mother. It’s a heartwarming tale that’s easy to finish in one sitting.
• “The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate – Narrated by a gorilla, this book is a touching story about friendship and freedom, ideal for animal lovers.
• “Island of the Blue Dolphins” by Scott O’Dell – Based on true events, this book follows a young girl who must survive alone on an island. It’s both a survival story and a tale of personal growth.

Whether you’re a 6th grader wanting to finish a story before bed or a parent looking for engaging reads that won’t overwhelm you, these shorter books offer lots of enjoyment and life lessons in just a few pages.

Best Fantasy Books for 6th Grade Girls

The magical worlds, epic quests, and unforgettable characters—fantasy books are an absolute delight. But besides being purely entertaining, they’ve got a lot to offer to young readers, especially those awesome 6th graders.

The Allure of Fantasy

Fantasy books often present complex moral dilemmas that help young readers sharpen their understanding of right and wrong. They introduce diverse magical worlds where the main character often undergoes a journey of self-discovery and hard work. Additionally, the genre allows for a fun way to escape the real world and stimulates creativity, giving flight to the imagination.

A Magical List of Fantasy Books

So, if you’re a 6th grader on the lookout for a spellbinding adventure, or a parent trying to encourage a love for reading, here’s your go-to list of fantasy books:

• “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling – It’s hard not to start with this one. Follow Harry as he embarks on his magical journey in the wizarding world, making both friends and enemies along the way.
• “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis – Four siblings stumble upon a magical world and become embroiled in a battle between good and evil.
• “Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan – Discover Greek gods in modern-day America with Percy Jackson, a twelve-year-old boy who learns he’s a demigod.
• “Ella Enchanted” by Gail Carson Levine – A young girl cursed with obedience tries to navigate life’s challenges. It’s a twist on the Cinderella story with a strong female main character.
• “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle – Join Meg Murry, her brother Charles, and friend Calvin as they travel through time and space to rescue her missing father.
• “The Golden Compass” by Philip Pullman – Lyra, the young protagonist, sets out on an epic quest to understand a mysterious phenomenon called Dust.
• “Artemis Fowl” by Eoin Colfer – Meet Artemis Fowl, a twelve-year-old genius who decides to capture a fairy and demand a ransom in gold. A delightful blend of magic and modern technology!
• “The Neverending Story” by Michael Ende – Dive into a book within a book, as a young boy reads about a hero’s quest to save a magical world.
• “Tuck Everlasting” by Natalie Babbitt – What if you could live forever? Winnie Foster stumbles upon a family with a remarkable secret and must decide if eternal life is a blessing or a curse.
• “Howl’s Moving Castle” by Diana Wynne Jones – Follow Sophie as she gets cursed by a witch and seeks refuge in a walking, talking castle owned by the wizard Howl.

If you’re ready to get lost in magical worlds, epic quests, and life-changing adventures, these fantasy books should be on your must-read list.

Best Historical Fiction Books for 6th Grade Girls

Historical fiction is such a wonderful genre; it’s like stepping into a time machine built out of paper and ink. But these books offer more than just a trip to a different era. They often pack educational punches, bring historical events to life, and provide fresh perspectives on times gone by.

Why Historical Fiction is a Timeless Choice

Why is historical fiction so beneficial for 6th graders? Besides being absolutely riveting, these books help young readers understand diverse cultures and historical periods. They also introduce young girls to strong female main characters who’ve faced incredible challenges in different settings—from the cobblestone streets of colonial America to the wartime landscapes of Europe. They make history come alive in a way that textbooks just can’t.

A Walk Through Time: Book Recommendations

Ready to time travel? Here are some top historical fiction picks suitable for 6th grade girls.

• “Number the Stars” by Lois Lowry – This powerful story takes you to World War II Denmark, following a young girl who helps her Jewish best friend escape the Nazis.
• “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery – While not strictly historical fiction, the setting and period details of late 19th-century Canada are beautifully portrayed as you follow Anne Shirley’s adventures.
• “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott – Journey to the United States of the 1860s and meet the March sisters as they navigate love, loss, and growing up during the Civil War.
• “The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963” by Christopher Paul Curtis – Take a road trip with an African American family from Michigan to Alabama during the civil rights movement, encountering both humor and heartbreak along the way.
• “Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan – Experience the life of a young girl who moves from Mexico to the United States during the Great Depression, learning hard work and resilience.
• “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry” by Mildred D. Taylor – Follow a young African American girl in the southern United States during the 1930s as she navigates racial injustice and family bonds.
• “Inside Out and Back Again” by Thanhha Lai – Written in verse, this book tells the story of a young Vietnamese girl who flees her home country to settle in the United States during the Vietnam War.
• “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak – Set in Nazi Germany, this book is narrated by Death and focuses on a young girl who finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others.
• “A Night Divided” by Jennifer A. Nielsen – Experience the thrill of trying to escape East Berlin after the rise of the Berlin Wall through the eyes of a 12-year-old girl.
• “Island of the Blue Dolphins” by Scott O’Dell – Based on true events, this story portrays a young Native American girl who spends years alone on an island off the coast of California.

So there you have it! If you’re a 6th grade girl looking for adventures that span different times and places, or if you’re a parent interested in enriching your daughter’s understanding of history, these books are worth a read.

Best Story Books for Grade 6 Girls

Storybooks aren’t just for little kids; they’ve got a lot to offer to 6th graders too. From thought-provoking narratives to meaningful life lessons, storybooks are more than just short tales to pass the time. They can be epic adventures, heartfelt dramas, or even slice-of-life stories that reflect the challenges and triumphs of ordinary life.

The Power of Storybooks

So, why should storybooks be part of a 6th grader’s reading repertoire? First off, these books often present relatable scenarios or characters, helping young readers identify their own feelings and challenges. A well-chosen storybook can serve as a window into different cultures, families, and life situations, contributing to both intellectual and emotional development.

Must-Read Storybooks: Our Recommendations

Ready to discover your next favourite book? Here we go!

• “The Tale of Despereaux” by Kate DiCamillo – This book captures the adventures of a tiny mouse with huge ears and an even bigger heart. It’s a tale about bravery, love, and the importance of being true to oneself.
• “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” by Grace Lin – This storybook, steeped in Chinese folklore, follows a young girl on a quest to change her family’s fortune. Along her journey, she meets a host of colourful characters and learns important life lessons.
• “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo – A young girl moves to a new town and adopts a stray dog, Winn-Dixie. Through her adventures with her new best friend, she learns about friendship, family, and the power of community.
• “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio – While not a traditional storybook, this powerful story about a young boy with a facial deformity entering public school for the first time offers great themes on empathy and kindness.
• “Matilda” by Roald Dah – A gifted young girl navigates life with unappreciative and neglectful parents, finding solace in her love for reading and in her supportive teacher.
• “Holes” by Louis Sachar – In this layered tale, a young boy is wrongly sent to a juvenile detention camp and discovers a complex history buried in the desert landscape.
• “The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate – Based on true events, this story is told from the perspective of Ivan, a gorilla living in a shopping mall, offering insights into friendship and the need for a better life.
• “Frindle” by Andrew Clements s – A storybook that revolves around a young boy who invents a new word, sparking a series of unforeseen and entertaining events.
• “Walk Two Moons” by Sharon Creech – A road-trip story that serves as a journey of self-discovery for a young girl dealing with loss.
• “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson – This touching tale delves into the friendship between two lonely children who create an imaginary kingdom to escape their daily lives.

So there you have it, a wonderful list of storybooks perfect for 6th grade girls! Whether you’re a 6th grader looking to dive into compelling stories or a parent hoping to help your daughter explore different worlds and emotions, these books are fantastic places to start.

Best Books for 6th Grade Book Reports

Book reports are a staple of the school year and a fantastic way to dive deep into a good book. But how do you pick the perfect book that’s not only engaging but also offers substance for a thorough analysis?

Tips on How to Pick Your Next Book Report Gem

Firstly, consider your interests. Whether you’re a fan of mysteries, historical fiction, or even nonfiction books about powerful people and events, choose a book that piques your interest. This will make the entire process much more enjoyable.

Secondly, look at the length of the book. If you’re pressed for time, you might want to opt for a shorter book that you can read quickly but still offers great themes and characters for analysis.

Lastly, consider the complexity of the book. A book with multi-faceted characters and intricate plot lines will provide you with more material to discuss in your report.

Book Report Worthy Reads: Our Recommendations

Ready to find that ideal book? Let’s get to it!

• “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee – A classic that dives into racial tensions in the southern United States. This book is a treasure trove for deep analysis on themes of justice and morality.
• “The Giver” by Lois Lowry – This book offers an in-depth look at a dystopian society where choices are made for you. It’s a great pick for discussing the complexities of freedom and conformity.
• “Hatchet” by Gary Paulsen – A young boy survives a plane crash and has to make it on his own in the wilderness. This book is perfect for discussing themes of resilience and hard work.
• “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton – Focused on teenage struggles with class difference and the concept of “belonging,” this book is rich in themes that 6th graders can relate to.
• “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling – Believe it or not, even magical worlds have a lot to analyze. From friendship to the battle between good and evil, this popular book is more than just an adventure tale.
• “Tuck Everlasting” by Natalie Babbitt – An exploration of the concept of eternal life, this book opens up interesting avenues for discussing the natural cycle of life and death.
• “Coraline” by Neil Gaiman – This spooky tale offers a wealth of material for a book report, from its in-depth character studies to its themes of bravery and the true meaning of home.
• “Maniac Magee” by Jerry Spinelli – A book that deals with issues like homelessness and racial prejudice, providing a lot of depth for a report.
• “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis – A timeless fantasy that is rich in symbolism and themes like good vs evil, it’s a compelling choice for a thoughtful report.
• “The Westing Game” by Ellen Raskin – A complex mystery with a large cast of characters, this book provides ample opportunity for analysis and discussion.

So whether you’re a 6th grader hunting for that perfect book for your upcoming report, or a parent aiming to guide your child in making a superb choice, this list is a great place to start. Happy book-reporting!

How Many Books Should a 6th Grader Read?

The quantity-versus-quality debate in reading isn’t new, but it’s super relevant for 6th graders who are at a pivotal stage in their academic and personal growth. So, how many books should a 6th grader ideally read?

The Magic Number for 6th Grade Reading

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer because reading habits can vary significantly from one young reader to another. However, it’s recommended to read around 20 to 30 books a year at this grade level. That number can include a mix of chapter books, nonfiction books, and even graphic novels to keep things interesting.

Balancing Quality and Quantity

Quantity shouldn’t come at the expense of quality. Sure, breezing through 50 books sounds impressive, but it’s not necessarily beneficial if the books don’t challenge the reader or offer a range of styles, genres, and themes. The best books will offer great stories, introduce new perspectives, and even throw in some hard work in the form of new vocabulary and complex plots.

Tips for Creating a Reading Schedule

• Make It a Routine : Try to set aside a specific time each day for reading. Making it a part of your daily routine ensures that you’re consistently turning those pages.
• Be Realistic : Don’t set overly ambitious goals that are hard to meet. Consider your school year schedule, homework, and other activities when planning your reading list.
• Mix It Up : Include different types of books in your schedule. A graphic novel here, a piece of historical fiction there, and maybe even a nonfiction book about powerful people or true events.
• Use Book Lists and Recommendations : Don’t forget to consult book lists like this one or recommendations from teachers and friends to discover your next favourite book.
• Family Involvement : Parents, this is where you come in. Sit down with your 6th grader and help them choose books that are not only appropriate for their grade level but also align with their interests.
• Review and Adjust : As you go through the list, it’s okay to make adjustments. Maybe a book is too challenging, or perhaps another book has caught your interest. Flexibility is key!

Wrapping Up The Best Books For 6th Grade Girls

The world of books as a 6th grader or as a parent of one can be both thrilling and a tad overwhelming. From classic novels that offer timeless wisdom, to exciting book series that you just can’t put down, there’s a universe of options out there. We’ve touched upon various genres, including chapter books, fantasy, historical fiction, and even books ideal for those all-important book reports. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the journey each book offers while also learning something new along the way. Here’s to a year filled with incredible books and the joy of discovering your next favourite read!

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