10+ Best Charles Dickens Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect Charles Dickens books for 10-year-olds? You're in the right place! Whether you're looking to introduce the young readers in your life to classic literature or just searching for a captivating story that holds historical significance, Charles Dickens offers some fantastic options. Keep reading as we dive into various lists of Charles Dickens books that are sure to engage and inspire your eager young reader!

Fun Charles Dickens Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Social novel, Drama
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Oliver Twist, an orphan boy who is born in a workhouse and sold into apprenticeship with an undertaker. After escaping, Oliver travels to London, where he meets the Artful Dodger, a member of a gang of juvenile pickpockets led by the elderly criminal, Fagin.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping adventure filled with drama and suspense that also teaches about compassion and the stark realities of the 19th-century English social system.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about triumph over adversity and fans of historical settings.

• A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, illustrated by John Leech
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Christmas story
  • Synopsis: This timeless story follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Through his spectral visitors, Scrooge learns the true meaning of Christmas and transforms into a kinder, gentler man.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the spirit of the Christmas season and the joy of giving. The transformation of Scrooge is both heartwarming and inspirational, making it a perfect holiday read.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love holiday stories and lessons on kindness and redemption.

• Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Bildungsroman, Social novel
  • Synopsis: The story chronicles the life of Pip, an orphan boy who is given a chance to rise from his humble beginnings thanks to a mysterious benefactor. Moving through his life, Pip learns about the true nature of his "great expectations" and the importance of loyalty and personal conscience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling tale of personal growth and social commentary that also explores themes of wealth and poverty, love and rejection, and the eventual triumph of good over evil.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young readers who are interested in stories about personal development and moral dilemmas.

Educational Charles Dickens Books for 10-Year-Olds

• David Copperfield by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Bildungsroman, Social novel
  • Synopsis: This novel is a semi-autobiographical account of the life of David Copperfield, from his challenging early years to his eventual success as a novelist. His journey is filled with memorable characters and adventures that reflect the societal conditions of the 19th century.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, historical context of Victorian England, narrative skills, character analysis
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a rich tapestry of characters and experiences that help young readers understand and appreciate resilience and personal growth.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy detailed narratives and learning about overcoming life's obstacles through perseverance and moral integrity.

• The Adventures of Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Social novel, Drama
  • Synopsis: This is an extended version of Oliver Twist's adventures, focusing on his encounters and the colorful characters he meets along the way. The book delves deeper into the challenges and societal issues faced by Oliver.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social awareness, critical thinking, understanding of historical social issues
  • Why we recommend this book: It expands on the original tale with more depth and detail, providing a broader context for Oliver's world and the social dynamics of the time.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoyed "Oliver Twist" and are curious to explore more of his adventures and the lessons they impart.

• Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Social novel, Comedy
  • Synopsis: The story follows Nicholas Nickleby as he tries to support his mother and sister after his father's death. His journey exposes him to a variety of challenging and comic situations, particularly when he works at a cruel and abusive boarding school.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of social injustice, development of a moral compass, literary analysis
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with a serious critique of the social injustices of the time, making it both entertaining and enlightening.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a mix of comedy and drama while learning about historical social issues.

• The Old Curiosity Shop by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Novel, Tragedy
  • Synopsis: Little Nell and her grandfather flee their home to escape a devastating debt and the malicious intentions of Quilp, the menacing and unscrupulous moneylender. Their adventures and misadventures are both heart-wrenching and poignant.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, understanding of human vulnerabilities, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a moving story that teaches about compassion, the harsh realities of life, and the strength of the human spirit.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are moved by tales of struggle and triumph, and who are learning about the impacts of kindness and cruelty.

Challenging Charles Dickens Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Bleak House by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Legal drama, Mystery
  • Synopsis: This novel revolves around a long-running legal case, Jarndyce and Jarndyce, which has far-reaching consequences for all involved. The narrative is known for its intricate plot and its exploration of the British judiciary system.
  • Why this book is challenging: The complex legal jargon and the multiple narrative threads present a challenging read for younger audiences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a masterful critique of the Victorian legal system and provides a deep, immersive storytelling experience that enhances critical thinking and comprehension skills.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers interested in mystery and drama, and those looking to expand their vocabulary and understanding of complex narrative structures.

• Hard Times by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Social criticism, Tragedy
  • Synopsis: Set in the fictional Coketown, this novel explores the lives of several characters tied to the local mill and school, focusing on the harsh realities of the Industrial Revolution and its impact on people’s lives.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with economic and social issues through sophisticated language and philosophical inquiries that might be complex for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a poignant look at the effects of industrialization on human values and community life, promoting empathy and historical understanding.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are keen on historical contexts and those who appreciate stories that challenge societal norms and practices.

• Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Serial novel, Social criticism
  • Synopsis: The story follows Amy Dorrit, who was born and raised in the Marshalsea prison for debtors. The narrative explores themes of imprisonment and social injustice as it traces Amy's life inside and outside the prison walls.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's intricate plot and detailed depiction of Victorian society may be demanding for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling exploration of social stratification and personal resilience, offering rich insights into character development and moral dilemmas.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a passion for deep, character-driven stories and those interested in critical examination of social structures.

• Martin Chuzzlewit by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Satire, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of young Martin Chuzzlewit, his estranged grandfather, and their eventual reconciliation, against a backdrop of greed, selfishness, and deceit.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its satirical style and the portrayal of complex human behaviors require a mature understanding and appreciation of irony and critique.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a humorous yet insightful look into human vices and virtues, enhancing readers' understanding of character analysis and thematic depth.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who enjoy a mix of humor and social commentary, and those looking to delve into more sophisticated literary techniques.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of Charles Dickens with your 10-year-old, you're in for a treat! Dickens' stories are not just exciting; they're also a fantastic way to develop strong reading habits. Below are some tailored exercises that can help make this literary journey both educational and fun. Let's get started!

• Create a Character Map
  • What it is: Draw a map that connects different characters based on their relationships and roles in the story.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of character development and interpersonal dynamics.
  • Tips: Use a large piece of paper and colored pens to make the map visually appealing and easier to understand.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after reading it.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of plot details.
  • Tips: Keep summaries short and use bullet points to highlight key events.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Before starting a new chapter, predict what might happen next in the story.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and engagement with the text.
  • Tips: Discuss predictions with a friend or family member to explore different perspectives.

• Find the Historical Context
  • What it is: Research the historical setting of the novel and how it influences the story.
  • How it helps: Provides a deeper understanding of the social and historical elements in Dickens' novels.
  • Tips: Use simple online resources or children's history books to make research fun and accessible.

• Draw Favorite Scenes
  • What it is: Illustrate scenes from the book that are particularly interesting or meaningful.
  • How it helps: Enhances creative expression and helps visualize the narrative.
  • Tips: Use a variety of materials like crayons, markers, or paints to bring scenes to life.

• Discuss with Others
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are also reading it or have read it.
  • How it helps: Improves verbal skills and offers new insights into the book.
  • Tips: Prepare a few questions or topics for discussion to keep the conversation focused.

• Vocabulary Building
  • What it is: Keep a list of new or interesting words found in the book and look up their meanings.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and better understanding of the language used by Dickens.
  • Tips: Try to use the new words in daily conversations or writing exercises.

Embracing these exercises can really transform your reading experience, making it more interactive and insightful. Not only will these activities help grasp the complexities of Dickens' novels, but they'll also foster a deeper appreciation for literature in your young reader. So, grab that copy of "Great Expectations" or "Oliver Twist," and let's make reading an adventure!