10+ Best Award Winning Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Looking for the perfect read for your budding bookworm? Dive into our curated selection of award-winning books for 10-year-olds that promise to captivate, educate, and inspire young minds. Whether your child is a voracious reader or just starting to develop a love for literature, these top picks are sure to be a hit. Keep reading to discover our various lists of award-winning books tailored just for 10-year-olds and find that perfect page-turner today!

Fun Award Winning Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Patricia Castelao
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Animal Story
  • Synopsis: This novel is based on the true story of Ivan, a gorilla who lived for 27 years in a shopping mall before being moved to a zoo. The story is told from Ivan's perspective as he interacts with other animals and reflects on his life in captivity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching and thought-provoking tale that encourages empathy and awareness about animal welfare.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in stories told from unique perspectives.

• When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1970s New York, this story follows sixth-grader Miranda as she receives mysterious notes that seem to predict the future. The novel intricately weaves themes of friendship, time travel, and suspense.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating puzzle that blends real-life issues with sci-fi elements, perfect for developing critical thinking and a love for intricate storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Fans of mysteries and science fiction, and readers who enjoy clever plot twists.

• Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by K.G. Campbell
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: This whimsical novel tells the story of Flora Belle Buckman and a superhero squirrel named Ulysses who possesses special powers after a freak accident.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with heartwarming moments, encouraging creativity and the belief in the extraordinary.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a great sense of humor and a love for quirky, adventurous tales.

• The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror, Mystery
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the story of Nobody Owens, a boy who is raised by ghosts in a graveyard after his family is mysteriously murdered.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling and magical tale that teaches about growth, bravery, and finding one's identity.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers who enjoy spooky stories with a heart.

• El Deafo by Cece Bell
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Autobiography
  • Synopsis: This is a semi-autobiographical graphic novel about the author's childhood experiences with hearing loss and the challenges of fitting in while wearing a bulky hearing aid.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a profound insight into the life of someone living with a disability, promoting understanding and empathy through engaging illustrations and storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy graphic novels and stories about overcoming personal challenges with courage and humor.

Educational Award Winning Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: This beloved novel tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte writes messages praising Wilbur in her web to persuade the farmer to let him live.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, friendship, life cycles, and writing skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that combines elements of friendship, sacrifice, and the cycle of life in a way that resonates with young readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who love animals and classic tales with a moral lesson.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Copenhagen during World War II, this novel follows ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen as she helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape the Nazis by pretending she is part of her family.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, empathy, bravery, and understanding of World War II
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a sensitive and appropriate introduction to the horrors of the Holocaust through the eyes of a child, highlighting themes of courage and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories of heroism.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to a boys' detention center where the boys are forced to dig holes every day. The story explores the reason behind the digging and uncovers a family curse that spans generations.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, understanding of themes like justice and redemption, and historical knowledge
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a unique blend of adventure and mystery with strong themes of fate and justice, engaging readers in a multi-layered narrative.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy puzzles, mysteries, and stories about overcoming adversity.

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the story of Despereaux Tilling, a small mouse with large ears, who loves music and stories, and his adventures within a castle that include being banished to a dungeon for speaking with a human.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding narrative structure, empathy, and themes of bravery and forgiveness
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written tale that encourages bravery and compassion, wrapped in a rich narrative with engaging illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love fairy tales and stories of unlikely heroes.

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Jesse Aarons and his friendship with his new neighbor Leslie Burke. Together, they create a magical forest kingdom called Terabithia, where they reign as king and queen until a tragedy strikes.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Imagination, dealing with grief, friendship, and emotional resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses complex topics like grief and loss in a thoughtful, accessible way, fostering emotional growth and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Children dealing with loss or those who enjoy stories about friendship and imaginative play.

Challenging Award Winning Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Puzzle
  • Synopsis: This book centers around the mysterious death of millionaire Samuel W. Westing and the game he concocts for his potential heirs to solve his murder and inherit his fortune.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel is filled with intricate puzzles and a large cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motives, making it a complex read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sharpens critical thinking and problem-solving skills through its cleverly laid puzzles and twists.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and any reader who loves a good brain teaser.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magical Realism
  • Synopsis: This story follows a young girl named Luna, who is accidentally enmagicked as a baby and raised by a witch. As Luna grows, so does her magic, and she must learn to control it.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex narrative structures and introduces themes of power, sacrifice, and coming-of-age.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written, thought-provoking tale that explores deep emotional and ethical issues.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy rich, immersive storytelling and magical adventures.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Four gifted children are recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict to go on a secret mission at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where they must stop a plot that could have global consequences.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book demands attention to detail and logical deduction, with complex riddles and puzzles throughout.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages teamwork, intelligence, and perseverance, wrapped up in an exciting, suspenseful narrative.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love solving puzzles and engaging in stories with clever, resourceful characters.

• Pax by Sara Pennypacker, illustrated by Jon Klassen
  • Genre(s): Animal Story, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: A boy named Peter and his pet fox, Pax, are separated by war. The novel alternates between their points of view as both go on perilous journeys in an attempt to reunite.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with themes of war, loss, and the impact of human conflict on nature.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a poignant story that offers insights into the bonds between humans and animals, and the pains of growing up.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in emotional, thought-provoking stories.

• The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set during WWII, this novel tells the story of Ada, a young girl born with a clubfoot, who is evacuated from London to the countryside, discovering a new world of freedom and possibilities.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses complex themes such as abuse, disability, and war.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gripping, emotional exploration of resilience and transformation against the backdrop of a significant historical event.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in historical narratives and stories of personal growth and triumph over adversity.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of award-winning books for 10-year-olds, why not make the experience even richer? Here are some fun and effective exercises to help young readers like you develop awesome reading habits. These activities are not only enjoyable but also boost comprehension and retention. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many pages or chapters to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps manage reading time effectively and creates a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Corner
  • What it is: Designate a special area in your home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus by associating the space with reading and learning.
  • Tips: Decorate the space with comfy seating and good lighting.

• Discuss the Book
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family who are reading it too.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding and memory by verbalizing thoughts and opinions.
  • Tips: Try to discuss the book regularly, such as after each chapter.

• Book Timeline
  • What it is: Create a timeline with the main events from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps in keeping track of the plot and understanding the sequence of events.
  • Tips: Use drawings or sticky notes to make it more interactive and fun.

• Character Maps
  • What it is: Draw maps or charts that show the relationships between different characters.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of character development and dynamics.
  • Tips: Update the map as more characters are introduced or relationships change.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Guess what might happen next after a chapter or an important event.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and engagement with the story.
  • Tips: Write down predictions and check how many were right as you read on.

• Visualize the Story
  • What it is: Imagine the scenes in your mind as you read, like a movie.
  • How it helps: Increases enjoyment and helps remember details better.
  • Tips: Pause after important scenes to picture them vividly.

These exercises are not just tasks; they're stepping stones to becoming a better reader and enjoying every page you flip through. So, grab your favorite award-winning book, and let's put these practices into action. Happy reading!