10+ Best Books for 9-Year-Old Girls w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for a curious 9-year-old girl in your life? Finding engaging and age-appropriate books can be a delightful challenge. Whether she's into thrilling adventures, magical mysteries, or stories that mirror real life, we've got you covered. Keep reading to discover our carefully curated lists of books for 9-year-old girls that are sure to captivate her imagination and keep those pages turning!

Fun Books for 9-Year-Old Girls

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: This story follows Matilda, a bright young girl with terrible parents and a sweet schoolteacher. Matilda discovers she has magical powers and uses them to stand up to the school's tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates intelligence, creativity, and the courage to stand up against unfairness, which can be very empowering for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about justice and using one's talents to overcome obstacles.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(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 in her web to persuade the farmer to save him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, presented in a gentle manner suitable for young children.
  • Perfect for: Children who love animals and stories about friendships that overcome challenges.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Orphaned Mary Lennox comes to live at her uncle's house, where she discovers a mysterious, neglected garden. As she brings the garden back to life, she and her new friends heal emotionally.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully illustrates how nurturing something can help heal one's own heart and spirit, which is a valuable lesson for young minds.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about discovery, nature, and personal growth.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story follows Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is mistakenly sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert. Her adventures and misadventures in the small town of Avonlea are both humorous and heartwarming.
  • Why we recommend this book: Anne's imaginative adventures and the vibrant community around her can inspire creativity and the importance of community and belonging.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers, imaginative souls, and anyone who enjoys character-driven stories with a strong sense of place.

• 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 from the darkness of his mouse world to the light of the princess's castle.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a tale of bravery and forgiveness that shows even the smallest creature can have a huge impact.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love fairy tales with heroes, quests, and a heartwarming message.

• Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Pippi Longstocking is an eccentric, super-strong, and freckled girl who lives alone with her horse and monkey. Her outrageous antics as she defies adults and has wild adventures are both hilarious and liberating.
  • Why we recommend this book: Pippi's independence and strong will encourage young girls to believe in their own strength and capabilities.
  • Perfect for: Independent thinkers and anyone who enjoys stories of adventure and unconventionality.

Educational Books for 9-Year-Old Girls

• Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo
  • Genre(s): Biography, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book compiles 100 tales of extraordinary women from the past and the present, celebrating their achievements across various fields.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, inspiration from role models, gender equality awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a broad range of inspiring stories that highlight the impact of women in the world, encouraging young girls to dream big.
  • Perfect for: Young girls who need role models and anyone interested in women's history.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magic Realism
  • Synopsis: This enchanting story follows a young girl named Luna, who is accidentally infused with moon magic and must learn to control her powers.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, understanding of themes like sacrifice and love
  • Why we recommend this book: Its rich, imaginative narrative and well-developed characters provide a captivating read while exploring deep and meaningful themes.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love fantasy and stories with strong, magical female leads.

• Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Science
  • Synopsis: Inspired by real-life makers such as Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie, Ada Twist is a curious girl who embarks on fact-finding missions and conducts scientific experiments to understand the world around her.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, problem-solving, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes curiosity about science and the importance of perseverance and asking "why."
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and any girl with a curious mind and a penchant for asking questions.

• Ivy + Bean by Annie Barrows, illustrated by Sophie Blackall
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: This series follows two unlikely friends, Ivy and Bean, who are complete opposites but team up for various adventures and misadventures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading fluency, understanding of friendship dynamics, creative problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It's funny, relatable, and showcases the value of friendship and collaboration.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about friendship and those who love a good laugh.

• Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Zita finds herself a stranger on a distant planet after pushing a button that transports her into outer space. Now, she must become a space hero to rescue her friend.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Visual literacy, imaginative thinking, bravery
  • Why we recommend this book: The graphic novel format is engaging for all types of readers, promoting both literacy and visual comprehension.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers who enjoy thrilling space adventures and heroic tales.

Challenging Books for 9-Year-Old Girls

• The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: In 1899 Texas, Calpurnia Tate is a curious 11-year-old girl who navigates the challenges of growing up as the only girl among six brothers. With the guidance of her cantankerous grandfather, an avid naturalist, she explores the natural world and develops a passion for science.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative incorporates complex scientific concepts and historical context that require advanced reading skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages a love for science and exploration, showing how curiosity can lead to significant discoveries about the world and oneself.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and history buffs who enjoy strong female protagonists.

• 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 crisis.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features intricate puzzles and complex plot twists that challenge the reader's problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a thrilling adventure that promotes teamwork, intelligence, and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love puzzles, mysteries, and working as part of a team.

• When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1970s New York, this novel follows sixth-grader Miranda as she receives mysterious notes that seem to predict the future and unravel the secrets surrounding an enigmatic homeless man.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story’s structure is complex, involving time travel and subtle clues that require careful analysis.
  • Why we recommend this book: It blends elements of mystery and science fiction in a way that captivates and stimulates the mind.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy thought-provoking stories and unraveling mysteries.

• The Wolves of Willoughby Chase by Joan Aiken
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in an alternative 19th-century England overrun with wolves, cousins Bonnie and Sylvia endure hardships under the cruel Miss Slighcarp and eventually fight to reclaim their home.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel features rich language and a detailed setting that requires strong reading comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an exciting tale of resilience and bravery against formidable odds.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who appreciate a mix of suspense, history, and adventure.

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin embark on a journey across dimensions to save their father from an evil force.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes such as good versus evil and the power of love, intertwined with scientific and philosophical concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: This classic novel fosters imagination and encourages exploration of deep philosophical questions.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in science and metaphysics, or anyone who enjoys a good, thought-provoking adventure.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 9-year-old girl develop great reading habits, here are some fun and engaging exercises that can make reading a more integral and enjoyable part of her daily life. These exercises are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, ensuring that reading becomes a habit she looks forward to every day.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a cozy, dedicated space for reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages regular reading by providing a comfortable and inviting place.
  • Tips: Let her personalize the space with her favorite cushions, lights, or decorations.

• Book Club for Two
  • What it is: Schedule a regular book club meeting with a parent, sibling, or a friend.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and gives her an opportunity to discuss and reflect on the book.
  • Tips: Choose books together and prepare some discussion questions for each meeting.

• Reading Challenge
  • What it is: Set a challenge to read a certain number of books over a period.
  • How it helps: Motivates her to read more and experience a variety of genres.
  • Tips: Create a fun visual progress chart where she can track the books she's read.

• Storytelling Time
  • What it is: Encourage her to retell the story in her own words.
  • How it helps: Improves memory and understanding of the narrative structure.
  • Tips: Use props or costumes for a more engaging storytelling session.

• Read Aloud Days
  • What it is: Dedicate specific days where you read parts of a book aloud together.
  • How it helps: Builds vocabulary and improves listening skills.
  • Tips: Alternate who reads each page to keep the sessions interactive.

• Book-Themed Activities
  • What it is: Create activities based on the themes or settings of the book.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding of the book and makes reading a multisensory experience.
  • Tips: You could bake something from the story or make an art project related to the book.

These exercises aren't just about reading more books; they're about making reading a fun and integral part of your young reader's life. By incorporating these activities, you're helping her develop a lifelong love for reading, enhancing her comprehension skills, and most importantly, enjoying the time spent in the wonderful world of books. So, pick a couple of exercises to start with, and watch her grow into a passionate reader!