10+ Best Army Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that captures the adventurous spirit of the military for your young reader? Look no further! Our roundup of Army Books for 8-Year-Olds is packed with exciting choices that are sure to engage and inspire. Whether your child is a budding historian or just loves action-packed stories, these books offer something for every young enthusiast. Keep reading to discover our top picks in Army Books for 8-Year-Olds that will spark imagination and perhaps teach a bit of history too!

Fun Army Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Adventures of Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey
  • Genre(s): Humor, Action, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Two fourth graders, George and Harold, create a superhero named Captain Underpants, who accidentally becomes real when their principal is hypnotized into believing he's the hero.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with humor and action, which are perfect for keeping young readers engaged and eager to turn the page.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love superheroes and laughter.

• Flat Stanley: His Original Adventure! by Jeff Brown, illustrated by Scott Nash
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: After being flattened by a bulletin board, Stanley Lambchop becomes just half an inch thick and discovers he can do amazing things no one else can.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages imagination and shows that being different can lead to some incredible adventures.
  • Perfect for: Creative thinkers and young adventurers.

• Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Family, Drama
  • Synopsis: A young boy saves up to buy and train two hunting dogs in the Ozark mountains, where he learns about hard work, heartache, and hope.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches lessons about perseverance and the bond between humans and animals.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and children who appreciate stories of friendship and loyalty.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classic, Animal story
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a clever spider named Charlotte, who tries to save her friend from being slaughtered.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that offers lessons on friendship, love, and the cycle of life.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy heart-touching stories and learning about the value of life and friendships.

• The Magic Tree House Series: Dinosaurs Before Dark by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Jack and Annie discover a tree house filled with books that can transport them through time. Their first adventure takes them to the age of dinosaurs.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with historical facts, sparking interest in history and reading.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds that enjoy time travel and learning about different eras.

Educational Army Books for 8-Year-Olds

• G.I. Joe: Above & Beyond by Max Allan Collins
  • Genre(s): Action, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Follow the daring missions of the G.I. Joe team as they battle the evil Cobra organization and learn the importance of teamwork and bravery.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, understanding of military roles, strategy thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces children to military concepts in an engaging and action-packed way, emphasizing courage and integrity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love action-packed stories and learning about military heroes.

• Can You Survive in the Special Forces? by Matt Doeden
  • Genre(s): Interactive Adventure, Educational
  • Synopsis: This interactive book allows readers to make choices and test their survival skills as they learn about the rigorous training and challenges faced by Special Forces soldiers.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Decision making, problem-solving, understanding of military training
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an interactive way to learn about the discipline and skills required in the military, fostering decision-making and critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy interactive stories and are curious about military training and tactics.

• Soldier Bear by Bibi Dumon Tak, illustrated by Philip Hopman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Animal Story
  • Synopsis: Based on a true story, this book tells the adventures of a bear who becomes an enlisted soldier in the Polish army during World War II, showing loyalty and bravery.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, empathy, understanding of World War II
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines history with a heartwarming animal story, teaching about loyalty, bravery, and the unusual but true aspects of wartime.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young historians interested in unique, real-life war stories.

• The Bravest Dog Ever: The True Story of Balto by Natalie Standiford, illustrated by Donald Cook
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Historical
  • Synopsis: This book recounts the heroic story of Balto, the sled dog, who led his team on a dangerous journey to deliver medicine during the 1925 diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, historical knowledge, understanding of heroism
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a thrilling real-life adventure that highlights bravery and the critical role of sled dogs in military and medical missions.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are inspired by true stories of heroism and the bond between humans and animals.

• War Dogs: Churchill & Rufus by Kathryn Selbert
  • Genre(s): Historical, Biography
  • Synopsis: Explore the life of Winston Churchill through the eyes of his pet poodle, Rufus, focusing on their companionship during the critical moments of World War II.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, emotional intelligence, understanding of World War II
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on historical events, making it easier for children to relate to and understand significant historical moments.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in history and stories of influential figures told through engaging, relatable narratives.

Challenging Army Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The General and the Horse-Lord by Sarah Black
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Military, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around two retired generals who must navigate their lives outside the military while dealing with personal challenges and a new mission that tests their skills and friendship.
  • Why this book is challenging: It incorporates complex themes of loyalty, duty, and personal identity, which are more sophisticated topics for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a nuanced look at life after military service, emphasizing the importance of friendship and integrity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in military themes and stories about friendship and honor.

• Mission to Space by John A. Read
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Space, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers on a journey through the training and missions of astronauts, with a focus on how military skills are integral to space exploration.
  • Why this book is challenging: The technical descriptions of space missions and the scientific explanations challenge young readers to think critically about space and technology.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the connection between military training and space exploration, inspiring interest in STEM fields.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring astronauts and young readers fascinated by space and technology.

• The Navy SEAL's Promise by Soraya Lane
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Adventure, Military
  • Synopsis: Follow the story of a young Navy SEAL on a secret mission that teaches him about courage, duty, and the power of promises.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex moral decisions and the psychological aspects of military life, which are advanced topics for children.
  • Why we recommend this book: The book provides a thrilling adventure that also teaches valuable life lessons about commitment and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy action-packed stories with meaningful life lessons.

• Fly, Cher Ami, Fly! by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Robert MacKenzie
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: The true story of Cher Ami, a carrier pigeon during World War I who saved the lives of American soldiers by delivering a crucial message despite serious injuries.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces young readers to the harsh realities of war and the role of animals in military history, which requires a mature understanding.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a powerful and moving story that teaches about heroism, perseverance, and the significant impact of animals in human conflicts.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and animal heroism.

• Sergeant Reckless: The True Story of the Little Horse Who Became a Hero by Patricia McCormick, illustrated by Iacopo Bruno
  • Genre(s): Biography, Historical, War
  • Synopsis: This book recounts the inspiring true story of Sergeant Reckless, a small horse who served during the Korean War and became renowned for her bravery.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features historical events and military terms that require readers to engage with complex content.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the courage and loyalty of an extraordinary animal, providing a captivating narrative that also educates about the Korean War.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love animal stories and are curious about military history.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of army books with your 8-year-old, that's fantastic! To make the most out of this reading adventure, here are some fun exercises that can help your young reader develop strong reading habits while exploring the exciting life in the army through books. Let's make reading even more engaging!

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or a set time to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and discipline in reading.
  • Tips: Start small, maybe 10 pages or 15 minutes, and gradually increase.

• Create a Reading Corner
  • What it is: Designate a special place at home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a special and enjoyable activity.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their own decorations or army-themed items.

• Book-Themed Role Play
  • What it is: Act out scenes from the army books you read.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention of the story.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes for more immersive play.

• Discussion Time
  • What it is: Set aside time to discuss the book's events and characters.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding and analytical thinking.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions to encourage deeper thinking.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Strengthens memory and brings the story to life.
  • Tips: Use a variety of materials like crayons, markers, or paints.

• Reading Buddy System
  • What it is: Pair up with a friend or sibling to read together.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a social activity and can motivate reluctant readers.
  • Tips: Choose books that both buddies will enjoy and discuss.

• Flashcard Summary
  • What it is: Create flashcards summarizing each chapter or major event.
  • How it helps: Aids in recall and summarization skills.
  • Tips: Use simple phrases or bullet points to capture the essence of the chapters.

And there you have it! Integrating these exercises into your child's reading routine can make their journey through army books not only educational but also incredibly fun. Remember, the key is consistency and making sure reading is seen as a delightful adventure, not a chore. Happy reading!