10+ Best Classic Books for 9-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for timeless reads that captivate and educate? Dive into our curated selection of classic books for 9-year-olds, perfect for young readers eager to explore enchanting worlds and memorable adventures. Whether you're stocking a classroom library or picking a bedtime story, these classics are sure to delight. Keep reading to discover our top picks for classic books that will enchant and engage every 9-year-old reader!

Fun Classic Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows a young pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a wise spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte crafts clever messages in her web to save him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches themes of friendship, love, and the cycle of life in a gentle and engaging manner that resonates with young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and children learning about friendship and loss.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: An orphaned girl named Mary Lennox is sent to live at her uncle's house, where she discovers a mysterious, neglected garden. As she brings the garden back to life, she helps heal herself and her ailing cousin.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a story of rejuvenation and the healing power of nature, encouraging empathy and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about transformation and the mysteries of nature.

• Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Pippi Longstocking is an eccentric, super-strong girl who lives alone with her horse and monkey. Her outrageous adventures with her neighbors Tommy and Annika are both humorous and heartwarming.
  • Why we recommend this book: Pippi's independence and strong spirit make it a fun and inspiring read for young children, promoting imagination and confidence.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous kids who love stories of friendship and freedom.

• The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Four siblings enter the magical world of Narnia through a wardrobe in an old house. Together, they undertake a quest to defeat the evil White Witch, with the help of Aslan, the noble lion.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces children to the concept of good versus evil and the importance of courage and faith.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy epic adventures and magical tales.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: An imaginative and talkative girl named Anne Shirley is mistakenly sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert at Green Gables. Her adventures and misadventures in the small town of Avonlea endear her to all.
  • Why we recommend this book: Anne's creativity and zest for life are infectious, encouraging readers to dream big and cherish their friendships.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers and anyone who enjoys stories of growth and belonging.

• The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the riverside adventures of Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger in Edwardian England. From peaceful boat rides to wild escapades in motorcars, the story is a celebration of camaraderie.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful exploration of friendship and the joys of exploring the natural world.
  • Perfect for: Nature lovers and fans of whimsical storytelling.

Educational Classic Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they grow up in Civil War-era America. The story explores their struggles and joys, their transitions from childhood to womanhood, and their strong family bonds.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding historical context, character development, empathy, and literary analysis
  • Why we recommend this book: It portrays realistic, emotional struggles that resonate with readers, along with lessons on resilience and personal growth.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about family dynamics and individual growth.

• Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, illustrated by John Tenniel
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Young Alice falls through a rabbit hole into a fantastical world where she encounters a variety of peculiar creatures and experiences magical adventures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Imagination, problem-solving, and understanding of symbolic and abstract thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a whimsical tale that encourages creativity and thinking outside the box, perfect for sparking young imaginations.
  • Perfect for: Children who love fantasy and exploring imaginative worlds.

• Black Beauty by Anna Sewell
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Story
  • Synopsis: Told from the perspective of a horse, this novel chronicles the life of Black Beauty as he moves from one owner to another, experiencing both cruelty and kindness.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, animal welfare awareness, and historical societal norms
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches important lessons about kindness, empathy, and the humane treatment of animals.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in emotional narratives from a unique perspective.

• Heidi by Johanna Spyri
  • Genre(s): Classic, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Heidi, a young orphan girl, is sent to live with her grumpy grandfather in the Swiss Alps. Through her cheerful and loving nature, she changes their lives for the better.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, emotional intelligence, and appreciation for nature
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that emphasizes the power of positivity and the beauty of the natural world.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy uplifting stories and learning about different ways of life.

• Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: Young Jim Hawkins finds a map to a pirate's treasure and sets sail on the Hispaniola, encountering dangerous pirates and adventures along the way, including the infamous Long John Silver.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Map reading, historical knowledge of piracy, strategic thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an exciting adventure that captures the essence of youthful exploration and the thrill of the unknown.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and anyone who loves a good pirate story.

Challenging Classic Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain
  • Genre(s): Classic, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the young boy Tom Sawyer and his adventures along the Mississippi River, which include treasure hunts, pretend battles, and unexpected witness to a crime.
  • Why this book is challenging: The dialect and historical context can be complex for young readers, offering a rich linguistic experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the essence of youthful freedom and mischief, while also providing insights into social norms and values of the past.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy spirited adventures and exploring the complexities of growing up.

• The Call of the Wild by Jack London
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This story details the life of a domestic dog named Buck who is snatched from a comfortable life and sold into the brutal existence of an Alaskan sled dog.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with mature themes such as survival and adaptation, presented through a narrative that explores deep, sometimes harsh realities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping adventure and a poignant exploration of nature and the instincts that surface in the face of hardship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are fascinated by survival stories and animal perspectives.

• The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: A collection of stories featuring Mowgli, a boy raised by wolves in the Indian jungle. Alongside tales of Mowgli, this book includes other stories featuring animals such as Rikki-Tikki-Tavi.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces complex themes of law, freedom, and societal structure through anthropomorphized animal characters.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fascinating look at jungle lore and ethics, intertwined with thrilling adventures and moral lessons.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in animals and stories that blend fantasy with real-life lessons.

• 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This classic science fiction novel follows Professor Aronnax and his crew as they embark on an expedition to hunt down a sea monster, only to discover it is a submarine piloted by the enigmatic Captain Nemo.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex scientific concepts and vocabulary that are advanced for young readers, along with a detailed narrative structure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It stimulates the imagination with its rich descriptions of underwater adventures and futuristic technologies.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds fascinated by science and exploration.

• Through the Looking-Glass by Lewis Carroll, illustrated by John Tenniel
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This sequel to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland follows Alice as she steps through a mirror into a fantastical world where she meets characters like Tweedledum and Tweedledee, the Red Queen, and Humpty Dumpty.
  • Why this book is challenging: It plays with logic and complex wordplay, challenging young readers to think critically about language and puzzles.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a whimsical yet profound narrative that encourages creativity and problem-solving.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love riddles, games, and the power of imagination.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 9-year-old develop great reading habits while enjoying some classic books, you're in the right place. Here are some fun and effective exercises designed to enhance their reading experience and skills. Let’s dive in!

• Create a Reading Corner
  • What it is: Set up a special, cozy spot dedicated only to reading.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a special and enjoyable activity, encouraging more frequent reading sessions.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with comfy cushions, good lighting, and their favorite book accessories.

• Book Club for Kids
  • What it is: Organize a weekly book club where your child and their friends discuss a book they've all read.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and provides an incentive to read through social interaction.
  • Tips: Keep the sessions light and fun, possibly with themed snacks or related activities.

• Story Map Creation
  • What it is: Have your child draw a map or a timeline of the events in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps with understanding plot structure and sequence of events.
  • Tips: Use colorful markers or digital drawing tools to make the activity more engaging.

• Character Diary Entries
  • What it is: Write diary entries from the perspective of a character in the book.
  • How it helps: Develops empathy and deeper understanding of characters.
  • Tips: Encourage creativity—entries can be about key events in the book or imagined scenarios.

• Quote Collection
  • What it is: Keep a collection of favorite quotes or passages from the books read.
  • How it is: Builds memory skills and appreciation for good writing.
  • Tips: Create a special notebook or digital document for this purpose, and revisit it often.

• Read and Draw
  • What it is: After reading a chapter, draw a scene or a character from it.
  • How it helps: Strengthens comprehension and recall, and adds a visual element to the reading experience.
  • Tips: Don’t worry about artistic skill; focus on expressing ideas and details from the story.

• Reading Challenge Chart
  • What it is: Create a chart that lists different types of books or genres to read over a certain period.
  • How it helps: Encourages diverse reading and setting goals.
  • Tips: Offer small rewards for completing each challenge, like choosing a movie night film or a small treat.

Wrapping up, these exercises are not just about reading more but about making reading a multidimensional and enjoyable habit. By incorporating these activities, you're helping your child build a lifelong love for books, especially the timeless classics. Happy reading!