10+ Best Books for 8-Year-Old to Read Themselves w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the lookout for the perfect books for 8-year-olds to read themselves? Finding engaging and appropriate reading material for young readers can be a bit of a challenge, but don't worry—we've got you covered! Keep reading to discover a curated selection of books that are not only fun but also perfectly suited for your budding bookworm to dive into independently. Whether they're just starting to read on their own or looking to expand their reading horizons, you'll find plenty of options to keep them hooked.

Fun Books for 8-Year-Old to Read Themselves

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a clever spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte spins words into her web to try to save her friend.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life in a gentle and engaging way that resonates with young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and children who appreciate stories about friendship and bravery.

• The BFG by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A little girl named Sophie meets the Big Friendly Giant (BFG) who, unlike other giants, does not eat children. Together, they embark on an adventure to stop the other giants from eating children.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its whimsical language and creative plot spark imagination and introduce children to the joy of fantasy worlds.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love stories filled with humor, fantasy, and heartwarming friendships.

• The Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Siblings Jack and Annie discover a magical tree house filled with books that transport them through time and space on various adventures.
  • Why we recommend this book: Each book provides a fun, educational journey through different historical periods and cultures, enhancing both reading skills and general knowledge.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and history buffs who enjoy series and learning about new places and times.

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: The book is a journal of Greg Heffley as he navigates his way through middle school, dealing with the challenges and misadventures of school and family life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's relatable and funny, making it an excellent choice for engaging reluctant readers with its blend of text and cartoons.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy a good laugh and those who might be a bit hesitant about reading.

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Matilda is a brilliant and sensitive child, but her talents go unnoticed by her crude family. At school, she meets a kind teacher and uses her telekinetic powers to overcome challenges.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the power of reading and the resilience of children, encouraging readers to believe in their own abilities.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who feel misunderstood or underappreciated and those who find solace in books.

Educational Books for 8-Year-Old to Read Themselves

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Fairy Tale
  • Synopsis: This charming story follows Despereaux Tilling, a small mouse with large ears, who loves music, stories, and a princess named Pea.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, bravery, and literacy skills through its rich vocabulary and complex characters.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written tale that combines adventure, moral lessons, and a heartwarming narrative.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy fairy tales and stories of unlikely heroes.

• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Patricia Castelao
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Story
  • Synopsis: The novel is narrated by Ivan, a silverback gorilla who lives in a shopping mall, as he reflects on his life and how he can change the future for other animals.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Compassion for animals, understanding of animal welfare, and creative thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thought-provoking story that teaches about friendship, hope, and the importance of a safe environment for all creatures.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young activists who are passionate about animal rights.

• Frindle by Andrew Clements, illustrated by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, School Story
  • Synopsis: Nick Allen invents a new word, "frindle," for what is commonly known as a pen, sparking a series of events that captures the nation's attention.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, vocabulary building, and understanding of language and its evolution.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages innovation and shows the power of words and ideas.
  • Perfect for: Young innovators and anyone interested in language and how small ideas can lead to big changes.

• The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Edward Tulane, a china rabbit, goes on an epic journey where he experiences love and loss and learns about the real meaning of emotional connection.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, resilience, and understanding of diverse life experiences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a moving story that teaches about the importance of love and the journey of self-discovery.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy emotional, transformative stories and learning about different perspectives.

• Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: Zita finds herself in a strange world after pushing a button that transports her and her friend. She becomes a spacegirl hero on a quest to save her friend and the universe.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, courage, and introduction to science fiction concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling adventures with a strong female lead and vibrant illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love space adventures and strong, resourceful characters.

Challenging Books for 8-Year-Old to Read Themselves

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, 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 solve a series of puzzles and stop a global disaster.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex puzzles and riddles that require advanced problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes teamwork, intelligence, and perseverance through its engaging and intellectually stimulating plot.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love puzzles, mysteries, and working as part of a team.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Bored young Milo receives a mysterious tollbooth that transports him to the Lands Beyond, where he embarks on a quest filled with puns, wordplay, and philosophical insights.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book is rich in wordplay, puns, and abstract concepts that challenge comprehension and vocabulary.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages a love for language and a deeper understanding of the meanings and nuances of words.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds that enjoy a play on words and thinking outside the box.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a previously unloved and spoiled child, discovers a neglected garden and, through her care, brings it back to life along with her sickly cousin and herself.
  • Why this book is challenging: It uses descriptive, archaic language and explores deep themes of loneliness, healing, and transformation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It illustrates the therapeutic power of nature and shows how nurturing others can help us grow.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate nature and stories about personal growth and healing.

• From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Claudia and her brother Jamie run away from home to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where they uncover the mystery of a beautiful statue.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative involves complex themes of independence, family dynamics, and self-discovery.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with a fascinating art historical mystery and a poignant exploration of personal identity.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and art lovers who dream of adventure and discovery.

• The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: This poetic tale tells the story of a young prince who travels the universe gaining wisdom through encounters with various inhabitants of different planets.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative is metaphorical with philosophical undertones that delve into themes of loneliness, love, and human nature.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers profound insights into life and relationships, wrapped in a simple yet captivating story.
  • Perfect for: Thoughtful young readers who enjoy stories that make them ponder life's big questions.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're on the lookout for ways to help your 8-year-old develop strong reading habits, here are some engaging exercises that are perfect for kids who are ready to dive into reading on their own. These activities not only make reading fun but also enhance comprehension and retention skills. Let’s get started!

• Create a Reading Corner
  • What it is: Set up a special, cozy spot dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages regular reading by providing a comfortable and inviting space.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions, lights, or decorations.

• Book Bingo
  • What it is: A bingo game where each square represents a different type of book or reading activity.
  • How it helps: Makes reading diverse genres and books more exciting and challenging.
  • Tips: Reward completing a row or a full house with a small prize or extra reading time.

• Story Predictions
  • What it is: Before reading, ask your child to predict the story or the outcome of the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances analytical thinking and engagement with the text.
  • Tips: Discuss predictions after reading to see which ones were right or surprising.

• Reading Aloud Time
  • What it is: Set aside time when your child reads aloud to you.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps build confidence in reading skills.
  • Tips: Offer gentle corrections and praise to boost morale and effectiveness.

• Character Diary
  • What it is: Maintain a diary from the perspective of a favorite character in the book.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding of the character and enhances creative writing skills.
  • Tips: Encourage your child to write entries after every couple of chapters.

• Book Club for Kids
  • What it is: Organize or join a book club where children can discuss books with peers.
  • How it helps: Encourages discussion and critical thinking about what they’ve read.
  • Tips: Keep the sessions light and fun, focusing on what everyone enjoyed about the book.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters based on the description in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize text and improves comprehension and recall.
  • Tips: Use a variety of materials like crayons, markers, or paints to keep things interesting.

These exercises are not just about reading but about making the process enjoyable and multifaceted. By incorporating these activities into your child’s routine, you’ll help cultivate a love for reading that can last a lifetime. Happy reading!