Fourth grade is the perfect time to introduce your students to a variety of genres and get them excited about reading. Whether you’re catering to avid readers or encouraging those who are just starting to enjoy books, this reading list offers a range of options that are perfect for fourth graders. From classic books to modern classics, these selections will engage young minds and help prepare them for the transition to fifth grade and beyond. The following books are excellent reads that are sure to become classroom favorites!
Click here to see a list of books for 3rd graders and here for 5th graders.
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1. The Friendship War by Andrew Clements
This novel tells the story of Grace, a girl who inadvertently starts a fad at her school after bringing in a box of old buttons. As the button craze spreads, Grace learns about the complexities of friendship and the power of trends. This book is great for 4th graders who enjoy stories about school life, friendship dynamics, and social challenges.
2. Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
“Because of Winn-Dixie” is a heartwarming story about a young girl who moves to a new town and makes new friends, all thanks to a stray dog she names Winn-Dixie. This modern classic is an excellent read for fourth graders who enjoy stories about friendship, new beginnings, and overcoming challenges. It’s also a great book for discussing themes like loneliness, empathy, and the importance of having a good friend during tough times. This book is a favorite in both classrooms and book clubs, making it a must-have for your list of chapter books.
3. The Magnificient Mya Tibbs: Spirit Week Showdown by Crystal Allen
Mya Tibbs is a spunky fourth grader with a big personality. In this first book of the series, Mya faces challenges during her school’s Spirit Week, including dealing with her best friend and the school bully. This book is perfect for 4th graders who enjoy humorous, realistic fiction and stories about friendship and school life.
4. Holes by Louis Sachar
“Holes” is a Newbery Medal-winning novel that intertwines mystery, adventure, and history. It’s about a young boy named Stanley Yelnats who is sent to a camp where he’s forced to dig holes as part of a strange rehabilitation program. This book is perfect for fourth graders who are ready for a story with deeper themes, such as fate, justice, and the importance of friendship. It’s also a good book for students who enjoy solving puzzles and mysteries. “Holes” is a modern classic that will captivate your students and keep them thinking long after they’ve finished reading.
5. The BFG by Roald Dahl
“The BFG” is another classic from Roald Dahl, featuring a Big Friendly Giant who befriends a little girl named Sophie. This fun book is perfect for fourth graders who enjoy imaginative stories filled with adventure and humor. It’s an excellent read for teaching themes like bravery, kindness, and standing up against injustice. The playful language and heartwarming story make it a great addition to your classroom reading list.
6. Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
“Shiloh” is a touching story about a young boy named Marty who finds a stray dog and decides to protect him from his abusive owner. This Newbery Medal-winning novel is perfect for fourth graders who love animals and stories about doing the right thing, even when it’s hard. The book addresses themes of morality, loyalty, and the bonds between humans and animals. “Shiloh” is an excellent read that will resonate with students who appreciate stories about compassion and hard work.
7. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume
“Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing” is a humorous and relatable story about a young boy named Peter and his mischievous younger brother, Fudge. This book is perfect for fourth graders who are navigating sibling dynamics and the challenges of growing up. Judy Blume’s lighthearted tone and realistic portrayal of childhood make this a favorite among young readers. It’s a good series to introduce students to chapter books, especially those who enjoy stories filled with humor and heart.
8. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
“The One and Only Ivan” is a powerful, fictional story told from the perspective of a gorilla living in captivity. This book is perfect for fourth graders who are ready to explore themes of friendship, freedom, and the ethical treatment of animals. It’s also a great book for discussing empathy and the importance of standing up for what’s right. “The One and Only Ivan” is an excellent read that can inspire meaningful discussions and is a great fit for any classroom book club.
9. Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren
“Pippi Longstocking” is the story of a quirky, independent girl who lives life by her own rules. This classic series is perfect for fourth graders who enjoy stories about strong, unconventional characters who embrace their individuality. Pippi’s wild adventures and bold personality make her a beloved character among young readers. This book is an excellent introduction to chapter books, especially for students who enjoy fun, lighthearted stories with a touch of humor.
10. Frindle by Andrew Clements
“Frindle” is a clever and engaging story about a young boy who invents a new word, sparking a language revolution at his school. This book is perfect for fourth graders who are creative thinkers and enjoy stories about standing up for their ideas. “Frindle” is an excellent read for teaching themes like innovation, individuality, and the power of language. It’s also a great book for reluctant readers who need a fun, fast-paced story to keep them engaged.
11. The Best Man by Richard Peck
This novel is a humorous and touching story about Archer Magill, who navigates the complexities of growing up with the guidance of three role models: his father, his uncle, and his teacher. The book deals with themes of identity, friendship, and family, making it a great read for 4th graders.
12. James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl
“James and the Giant Peach” is a fantastical adventure that takes readers on a journey with a young boy named James as he escapes his dreary life and embarks on an extraordinary journey inside a giant peach. This fun book is great for fourth graders who love imaginative stories with a touch of magic. It’s an excellent read for discussing themes like courage, friendship, and the importance of perseverance. The story’s quirky characters and imaginative plot make it a favorite among young readers.
13. The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacy McAnulty
This novel follows Lucy, a girl who gains extraordinary mathematical abilities after being struck by lightning. As she starts middle school, Lucy learns that there’s more to life than just numbers, and she has to navigate friendships and social challenges. This book is perfect for 4th graders, especially those interested in STEM subjects.
14. The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies
“The Lemonade War” is an engaging story about a brother and sister who turn a simple lemonade stand into a full-blown business competition. This book is perfect for fourth graders who are interested in stories that blend real-life challenges with humor and fun. It’s an excellent read for discussing themes like entrepreneurship, sibling rivalry, and the importance of honesty and teamwork. The relatable characters and exciting plot make it a good fit for young readers, and it’s a great book to inspire classroom activities related to math, business, and economics. Once you finish reading this book with your students, they will all be asking for the entire lemonade war series!
15. The Unteachables by Gordon Norman
“The Unteachables” is a humorous and heartwarming story about a class of misfit students and their burned-out teacher, Mr. Kermit. Through a series of unexpected events, they help each other rediscover the joy of learning. This book is a great choice for 4th graders who enjoy stories with humor, redemption, and strong character development.
16. Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper
“Out of My Mind” is an inspiring story about Melody, a girl with cerebral palsy who has a brilliant mind but cannot speak or move. The book offers a powerful message about overcoming challenges and is perfect for teaching empathy and understanding. It’s a compelling read for 4th graders ready to engage with deeper themes.
17. The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary
In “The Mouse and the Motorcycle,” a young mouse named Ralph discovers he can ride a toy motorcycle, leading to exciting adventures. This classic book is perfect for fourth graders who enjoy fast-paced stories filled with action and humor. It’s an excellent read for discussing themes like bravery, independence, and the importance of responsibility.
The story’s relatable characters and thrilling plot make it one of the best books for young readers transitioning to chapter books. “The Mouse and the Motorcycle” is also a fun book to read aloud, making it a perfect addition to your classroom library.
18. Mr. Popper’s Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater
“Mr. Popper’s Penguins” is a delightful story about a house painter who unexpectedly becomes the caretaker of a group of penguins. This book is perfect for fourth graders who enjoy humorous, lighthearted stories with a touch of whimsy. It’s a good book for discussing themes like responsibility, teamwork, and adapting to unexpected changes. The playful plot and charming characters make it a favorite among young readers and an excellent read for classroom discussions.
19. The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling
“The Chocolate Touch” is a fun and imaginative twist on the classic tale of King Midas. The story follows a young boy named John Midas, who discovers that everything he touches turns into chocolate—much to his dismay. This book is perfect for fourth graders who love stories that blend fantasy with humor. It’s an excellent read for teaching lessons about moderation, consequences, and the idea that too much of a good thing can be bad. The story’s engaging plot and relatable message make it a great fit for classroom reading.
20. My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George
“My Side of the Mountain” is an adventure story about a young boy named Sam who decides to live in the wilderness on his own. This book is perfect for fourth graders who are intrigued by nature, survival, and independence. It’s a good book for discussing themes like self-reliance, resourcefulness, and the beauty of the natural world. “My Side of the Mountain” is an excellent read for students who enjoy stories that challenge them to think about living off the land and the rewards of hard work.
21. The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes
“The Hundred Dresses” is a poignant story about a young girl who is bullied for wearing the same dress every day. This Newbery Honor book is an excellent read for fourth graders who are ready to explore themes of empathy, kindness, and the impact of our actions on others. It’s a great book for discussing the importance of understanding and compassion, making it a valuable addition to any classroom reading list. The story’s powerful message is perfect for sparking meaningful discussions about how we treat others.
22. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
“Bridge to Terabithia” is a deeply moving story about friendship, imagination, and coping with loss. This book is perfect for fourth graders who are ready to explore more complex emotions and themes. It’s an excellent read for discussing grief, change, and the power of imagination in helping us deal with difficult situations. The story’s emotional depth and relatable characters make it a good fit for both individual reading and classroom discussions.
23. The Vanderbeekers of 141st Streest by Karina Yan Glaser
This charming story is about the Vanderbeeker siblings, who band together to save their beloved Harlem brownstone from being sold. It’s a delightful book that emphasizes family, community, and creativity, making it a perfect addition to a 4th grade reading list.
24. The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner
“The Boxcar Children” follows the adventures of four orphaned siblings who make a home for themselves in an abandoned boxcar. This classic series is perfect for fourth graders who love stories about independence, family, and survival. It’s a good book for discussing themes like resourcefulness, the importance of family, and the value of hard work. The simple yet engaging plot makes it one of the best chapter book series for young readers who are just beginning to explore longer stories.
25. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
“Tuck Everlasting” is a thought-provoking novel that explores the concept of immortality and the natural cycle of life. This book is a great fit for fourth graders who are ready to think deeply about life and the consequences of living forever. It’s an excellent read for discussing themes of life, death, and the choices we make. The story’s exploration of ethical dilemmas makes it a perfect addition to any classroom reading list, providing young readers with a meaningful narrative that encourages reflection.
26. Save Me a Seat by Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan
“Save Me a Seat” is a dual narrative that tells the story of two boys from different cultures—Joe, an American, and Ravi, an Indian immigrant—who become unlikely friends as they navigate their first week of fifth grade. This book addresses themes of cultural differences, bullying, and friendship, and is ideal for 4th graders.
27. Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown
“Flat Stanley” is an imaginative story about a boy who becomes flat after being squashed by a bulletin board and discovers he can have all sorts of adventures in his new form. This book is perfect for fourth graders who enjoy creative, light-hearted stories. It’s an excellent read for discussing themes like adaptability, problem-solving, and making the best of unexpected situations. “Flat Stanley” is also a great book to inspire classroom activities and projects, making it a fun addition to your reading list.
28. The Secret of the Old Clock by Carolyn Keene (Nancy Drew)
“The Secret of the Old Clock” is the first book in the classic Nancy Drew mystery series, where young detective Nancy Drew solves her first case. This book is perfect for fourth graders who love a good mystery and enjoy stories with strong, intelligent female protagonists. It’s an excellent read for encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and the excitement of unraveling a mystery. The suspenseful plot and relatable characters make it a great fit for older kids who are ready for more challenging chapter books.
29. The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall
“The Penderwicks” follows the adventures of four sisters during their summer vacation at a beautiful estate. This book is perfect for fourth graders who enjoy stories about family, friendship, and the joys of childhood. It’s an excellent read for discussing the dynamics of sibling relationships and the importance of making memories together. The story’s charming characters and lighthearted tone make it a favorite among young readers, especially those looking for a fun and engaging chapter book series.
30. The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier
This action-packed series is about a group of kids surviving a monster apocalypse. With humor, adventure, and plenty of illustrations, it’s a great choice for reluctant readers and those who enjoy graphic novels. The blend of comic book-style art and engaging storytelling makes it a favorite among 4th graders.
Wrapping It Up: Engaging Your 4th Graders with These Must-Reads
These 30 books offer a wonderful variety of stories that will captivate your fourth 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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