30 Books to Keep Your 5th Graders Hooked on Reading

Introducing your fifth graders to the right book can ignite a lifelong love of reading. Whether you’re catering to enthusiastic young readers or trying to engage reluctant readers, this list of books offers a variety of options that are perfect for 5th grade students. These selections range from timeless classics to new favorites, ensuring there’s something for every type of reader in your classroom. Let’s dive into these great book choices that are sure to become your students’ favorite books!

Click here to see a list of books for 3rd graders and here for 4th graders.

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1. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

“Wonder” is a fantastic read about Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial difference who faces challenges as he enters middle school for the first time. This is a great book for teaching empathy, kindness, and acceptance. It’s a good fit for fifth grade boys and girls alike, and it’s also a perfect addition to any book club. As a Newbery Honor Book, it’s a must-read that resonates deeply with older kids, especially as they navigate their last year of elementary school.

2. Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

This popular graphic novel and book series is an exciting adventure that blends Greek mythology with modern-day life. The main character, Percy Jackson, is a young demigod who embarks on a thrilling journey. This book is particularly appealing to 5th grade boys who enjoy action-packed fictional stories. It’s also a great book for reluctant readers, offering an engaging way to explore mythology while keeping them hooked from the first book to the last.

3. Holes by Louis Sachar

“Holes” is a Newbery Honor Book that intertwines mystery and adventure in a way that captivates young readers. The story follows Stanley Yelnats, the main character, who is sent to a camp where he digs holes as a punishment, only to uncover a family mystery. This is one of those fifth grade books that’s perfect for classroom discussions about justice, fate, and friendship. It’s also a good book for older kids who are transitioning into middle school, making it a great fit for your 5th grade students.

4. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

This heartwarming story, told from the perspective of a gorilla named Ivan, is a great book for teaching themes of friendship, compassion, and hope. “The One and Only Ivan” is a perfect addition to your list of books for fifth graders, especially those who enjoy stories about animals and making new friends. It’s a great read that can be enjoyed individually or as part of a school book club.

5. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

“Charlotte’s Web” is one of those classic school books that continues to be a favorite among young readers. The story of Wilbur the pig and his best friend, Charlotte the spider, is perfect for teaching about friendship, sacrifice, and the circle of life. It’s a good fit for fifth grade students who appreciate heartwarming, fictional stories. Plus, it’s a book that can easily be found at your local library, making it accessible for everyone.

6. Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan

“Esperanza Rising” is a Newbery Honor Book that offers a compelling story about a young girl who must adapt to a new life during the Great Depression. This book is a great way to introduce your 5th graders to themes of resilience, cultural identity, and social justice. It’s especially engaging for students who enjoy historical fiction and are ready to explore more complex narratives. This book is also a perfect addition to any 5th grade book list, providing different options for young readers.

7. The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo

This beautifully written book follows the journey of a porcelain rabbit named Edward Tulane, who learns about love and loss. It’s a great book for exploring themes of empathy and personal growth. Fifth graders will find the emotional depth of the story both challenging and rewarding. It’s a fictional story that’s sure to become one of your students’ favorite books and a great read for those ready to reflect on deeper themes.

8. Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

“Number the Stars” is a powerful fictional story set during World War II, where a young girl helps her Jewish friend escape from the Nazis. This Newbery Honor Book is a great way to introduce your students to historical events and the importance of bravery and friendship. It’s also a good fit for fifth graders who are transitioning to middle school and are ready to explore more serious themes. This book is often a favorite among 5th grade boys and girls alike.

9. Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

“Hatchet” is an adventurous story about a boy named Brian who must survive in the wilderness after a plane crash. This book is great for teaching themes like self-reliance, perseverance, and the human spirit’s resilience. It’s particularly appealing to 5th grade boys who love survival stories and are looking for something exciting to read. It’s also a great book for reluctant readers, offering an engaging narrative that keeps them turning the pages. **I recommend this book to almost all of my boys that are reluctant readers. They fall in love with the story immediately. It’s one of my favorite books to read aloud to the entire class, too!

10. Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

“Fish in a Tree” tells the story of a young girl with dyslexia who learns to embrace her differences and find her strengths. This is a great book for teaching themes of self-acceptance, perseverance, and the power of supportive relationships. It’s a perfect addition to your fifth grade books collection, especially for students who need a little encouragement to believe in themselves. This book is a good fit for any classroom, offering a relatable and inspiring message for 5th grade students.

11. Frindle by Andrew Clements

“Frindle” is a fun, clever story about a boy who invents a new word, sparking a language revolution at his school. This book is great for teaching themes like creativity, individuality, and the power of words. It’s a perfect book choice for fifth graders who enjoy stories about standing up for what they believe in. Plus, it’s a great read that offers plenty of opportunities for discussions about language and innovation.

12. Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell

“Island of the Blue Dolphins” is based on the true story of a Native American girl who survives alone on an island for years. This Newbery Honor Book is a great read for teaching themes of independence, resilience, and the relationship between humans and nature. It’s a good book for 5th grade students who enjoy adventure and are looking for a story that challenges their understanding of survival and self-reliance.

13. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

“Tuck Everlasting” is a thought-provoking novel that explores the idea of immortality and the natural cycle of life. This book is a great choice for fifth graders who are ready to think deeply about life and the consequences of living forever. It’s a great book to add to your 5th grade book list, offering a unique perspective that sparks meaningful discussions. The story’s exploration of ethical dilemmas makes it a perfect addition to your classroom library.

14. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

“The Wild Robot” tells the story of Roz, a robot who wakes up on a remote island with no memory of how she got there. As she learns to survive in the wilderness, Roz discovers her place in the world and forms unexpected friendships with the island’s animal inhabitants. This book is perfect for 5th graders who enjoy stories that blend adventure, survival, and the exploration of what it means to be alive. It’s a thought-provoking and accessible novel that sparks discussions on empathy, technology, and nature.

15. Piecing Me Together by Renee Watson

“Piecing Me Together” is a powerful novel about Jade, an African American girl from a poor neighborhood who attends a mostly white private school. As she navigates the challenges of being one of the few students of color, Jade learns about self-empowerment, art, and finding her voice. This book is a great fit for 5th graders who are ready to explore complex themes like social justice, identity, and friendship. It’s an inspiring and thought-provoking read that encourages young readers to think critically about the world around them.

16. Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis

Set during the Great Depression, “Bud, Not Buddy” follows the adventures of 10-year-old Bud Caldwell as he sets out on a journey to find his father, whom he believes is a famous jazz musician. Armed with only a suitcase of special possessions and a heart full of determination, Bud travels across Michigan, encountering both kindness and hardship along the way. Filled with humor, hope, and a touch of mystery, Bud, Not Buddy is a compelling and moving story about resilience, the search for identity, and the power of family—whether by blood or by choice. Winner of the Newbery Medal, this novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a tale that uplifts the spirit.

17. Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien

“Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH” is a story of bravery and intelligence among animals, exploring themes of cooperation, resourcefulness, and the ethics of scientific experimentation. This book is a great choice for fifth graders who enjoy animal stories with a twist of mystery. It’s a perfect addition to your classroom library, offering a complex narrative that engages both reluctant readers and enthusiastic young readers alike.

18. Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

“Where the Red Fern Grows” is a timeless, heartwarming tale of determination, loyalty, and the deep bond between a boy and his dogs. Set in the Ozarks, young Billy Coleman works tirelessly to save enough money to buy two coonhound puppies, Old Dan and Little Ann. Together, they embark on thrilling hunting adventures and form an unbreakable bond. The story beautifully explores themes of hard work, sacrifice, and the bittersweet moments of life.

19. The List of Things that Will Not Change by Rebecca Stead

This novel tells the story of Bea, a young girl adjusting to her parents’ divorce and her father’s upcoming marriage to his boyfriend. The book beautifully handles themes of change, family, and emotional growth, offering a sensitive and heartfelt narrative.

20. Matilda by Roald Dahl

“Matilda” is the story of a brilliant girl with a love for books and a knack for standing up to bullies. This is a great book for 5th graders, especially those who love stories about clever, strong-willed characters. Matilda’s adventures with her friends and her battles against the villainous Miss Trunchbull are both humorous and inspiring. It’s a great read that encourages young readers to appreciate the power of knowledge and kindness. Even better? There’s a movie to watch after you read it!

21. Diary of a 6th Grade Ninja by Marcus Emerson

In “Diary of a 6th Grade Ninja“, 11-year-old Chase Cooper navigates the tricky world of middle school after moving to a new town. As if starting 6th grade wasn’t challenging enough, Chase finds himself recruited into a secret ninja clan at school! Balancing homework, new friendships, and ninja missions, Chase must figure out who to trust and how to survive the chaos of middle school. Written in a humorous, diary-style format, this book is perfect for fans of adventure, comedy, and quick-paced stories. With its relatable protagonist and fun, action-packed plot, Diary of a 6th Grade Ninja is an engaging read that will keep 5th and 6th graders eagerly turning the pages.

22. The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin

“The Westing Game” is a clever mystery novel that challenges students to think critically and solve puzzles alongside the characters. This book is perfect for 5th graders who love a good mystery and enjoy stories with twists and turns. It’s a great read for those who are preparing for middle school, offering a complex narrative that keeps readers engaged. The added bonus of trying to solve the mystery before the characters do makes it an interactive and exciting choice for your classroom.

23. Wishtree by Katherine Applegate

“Wishtree” is a heartwarming story told from the perspective of a wise old oak tree named Red. The tree watches over the neighborhood and witnesses the wishes tied to its branches. The book deals with themes of acceptance, kindness, and community, making it a thoughtful and engaging read for 5th graders.

24. The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart

This novel tells the story of Coyote Sunrise, a girl who travels across the country with her father in a school bus. Along the way, Coyote embarks on a mission to preserve her past, and the story beautifully explores themes of grief, healing, and the importance of family.

25. The BFG by Roald Dahl

“The BFG” is a whimsical tale of a Big Friendly Giant who befriends a little girl named Sophie. This book is perfect for 5th graders who love imaginative stories and quirky characters. It’s a great read for both reluctant readers and those who already love books, offering a fun and engaging narrative that’s hard to put down. The playful language and heartwarming story make it a favorite choice among 5th grade students.

26. New Kid by Jerry Craft

“New Kid” is a graphic novel that tells the story of Jordan Banks, a young African American boy navigating his way through a prestigious private school where he is one of the few kids of color. This book is fantastic for 5th graders, especially those transitioning to middle school. It addresses themes of race, identity, and fitting in, all while being incredibly relatable and engaging. “New Kid” won the Newbery Medal, making it an excellent addition to any 5th grade reading list.

27. Front Desk by Kelly Yang

“Front Desk” follows the story of Mia Tang, a 10-year-old Chinese American girl who works at the front desk of the motel her immigrant parents manage. The book deals with themes of immigration, poverty, and resilience, offering a heartfelt look at the struggles and triumphs of being an immigrant in America. “Front Desk” is both inspiring and educational, making it a great choice for 5th graders who enjoy realistic fiction with strong, relatable characters.

28. The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

“The War That Saved My Life” tells the story of a young girl with a physical disability who discovers self-worth and freedom during World War II. This Newbery Honor Book is an excellent choice for 5th grade students who enjoy historical fiction and stories of personal growth. It’s a good book for teaching themes of resilience, bravery, and the importance of kindness. The main character’s journey is both inspiring and thought-provoking, making it a great fit for older kids in their last year of elementary school.

29. The City of Ember by Jeanne Duprau

“The City of Ember” is an intriguing dystopian novel about a city built underground to ensure humanity’s survival. As the power begins to fail, two brave children, Lina and Doon, must uncover the city’s secrets to save their people. This book is perfect for 5th graders who enjoy adventure, mystery, and stories that challenge them to think critically about society and survival. It’s a great read for both reluctant readers and those who love diving into complex, thought-provoking narratives. The book’s blend of suspense and exploration makes it an excellent addition to your 5th grade reading list.

30. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

“Bridge to Terabithia” is a poignant story about friendship, imagination, and coping with loss. This book is a great fit for 5th grade students who are ready to explore deeper emotions and complex themes. It’s a good book for classroom discussions about grief, change, and the power of imagination. The story’s emotional depth and relatable characters make it a favorite among both students and teachers.

Engaging Your 5th Graders with These Must-Reads

These 30 books offer a fantastic mix of stories that will captivate your 5th graders and provide countless opportunities for learning and discussion. Whether you’re exploring important themes, building reading skills, or just enjoying a great story together, these books are perfect for your classroom.

And after you’ve enjoyed these stories with your students, don’t forget to use these simple and easy Book Review Templates! These templates are a fun and easy way for your students to reflect on what they’ve read, share their opinions, and give each book a star rating. It’s a great way to encourage critical thinking, improve writing skills, and keep your students engaged with the material. Happy reading!

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