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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect girly books for 9-year-olds? Whether you're looking to gift a little reader or hoping to spark a love for reading in your young one, finding books that captivate and inspire can be a delightful adventure. In this blog, we've rounded up a variety of picks that are sure to enchant and entertain. Keep reading to discover our curated lists of girly books for 9-year-olds that are just waiting to be opened and explored!

Fun Girly Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: The story of a brilliant and sensitive girl who uses her extraordinary talents to overcome obstacles caused by her family and school principal.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates intelligence and creativity, encouraging young readers to believe in themselves and their abilities.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories about triumph over adversity, and anyone who appreciates a touch of magic and humor.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This heartwarming tale follows a young girl named Fern and her friendship with Wilbur the pig and his spider friend, Charlotte, who tries to save him from being slaughtered.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches lessons about friendship, love, and the cycle of life, wrapped in a beautifully written narrative.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and children who appreciate stories about friendship and loyalty.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: The adventures of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who arrives at the Cuthberts' home in Avonlea and changes their lives forever.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a story full of imagination and emotion, fostering creativity and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers and anyone who enjoys stories about growing up and finding one's place in the world.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a previously unloved and unloving child, finds a neglected garden and, through her care, brings it back to life, experiencing healing and growth herself.
  • Why we recommend this book: It illustrates the transformative power of nature and nurturing relationships.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy tales of renewal and personal growth, and those who love stories about gardens and nature.

• Ivy + Bean by Annie Barrows, illustrated by Sophie Blackall
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Humor
  • Synopsis: This series showcases the adventures and mishaps of two unlikely friends, Ivy and Bean, who are complete opposites but best friends.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's fun, lively, and speaks to the value of friendship despite differences.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about friendship, schemes, and laughter.

• The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Princess Magnolia has a secret—she's also the Princess in Black, a superhero who fights monsters. This series follows her adventures as she balances royal duties and her secret life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor, action, and the message that you can be both a princess and a hero.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories about princesses and superheroes, and those looking for action-packed, empowering tales.

Educational Girly Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Tail of Emily Windsnap by Liz Kessler, illustrated by Sarah Gibb
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Emily Windsnap discovers she's a mermaid when she takes her first swimming lesson. Her subsequent underwater adventures lead her to uncover secrets about her family's past.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, imagination, understanding of family dynamics and self-discovery
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a magical story that combines adventure with the journey of self-discovery and the importance of understanding one's identity.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love fantasy and mysteries, and those intrigued by the idea of mermaids and underwater worlds.

• Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: Zita finds herself in another universe 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, bravery, friendship, and basic understanding of graphic novel storytelling
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an exciting space adventure that showcases bravery and the importance of friendship, all wrapped up in a visually appealing graphic novel format.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy science fiction, adventures in space, and strong female characters.

• The Never Girls by Kiki Thorpe, illustrated by Jana Christy
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Four friends find themselves in Never Land and become involved with the adventures of Tinker Bell and the other fairies. They navigate between their world and Never Land, experiencing magical adventures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative thinking, friendship dynamics, and imaginative play
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a delightful blend of real-world and fantasy adventures, encouraging imagination and exploration.
  • Perfect for: Fans of Tinker Bell, fairy tales, and those who dream of fantastical adventures.

• Piper Green and the Fairy Tree by Ellen Potter, illustrated by Qin Leng
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Piper Green lives on an island and experiences everyday adventures, with a touch of magic from the fairy tree in her front yard.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, understanding of community and school life, imaginative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It mixes everyday life with magical elements, making it relatable yet enchanting for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who appreciate stories about school, community, and a bit of magic in everyday life.

• Nancy Clancy, Super Sleuth by Jane O'Connor, illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Nancy Clancy takes on the role of a detective with her best friend Bree, solving mysteries in their neighborhood.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding of narrative structure
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages readers to think critically and solve problems, wrapped in fun and engaging mysteries.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and fans of mystery stories who enjoy seeing young girls take the lead in solving puzzles.

Challenging Girly Books for 9-Year-Olds

• 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, with the guidance of her grumpy but wise grandfather, explores the natural world around her and challenges the societal expectations of young girls of her time.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex scientific concepts and historical perspectives, encouraging readers to think critically about gender roles and societal changes.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book combines history with science, providing a rich narrative that stimulates curiosity about the natural world and the evolution of societal norms.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and history, and those who enjoy stories about strong, curious girls.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magical Realism
  • Synopsis: A story about a young girl named Luna, who is accidentally enmagicked as a baby and raised by a witch. The narrative weaves together themes of magic, power, and the complexities of growing up.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features intricate plotlines and richly developed characters that delve into deep ethical questions and complex themes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's beautifully written, with layers of meaning that encourage deep thinking and empathy.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love fantasy with complex narratives and those interested in stories that explore the meaning of love and sacrifice.

• The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: During WWII, Ada, a young girl born with a clubfoot, escapes her abusive mother and London's bombings to find a new life and a sense of freedom in the countryside with her brother and their guardian.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with heavy themes like abuse, war, and disability, requiring readers to confront difficult aspects of human experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a gripping, emotional story that highlights resilience, the importance of family, and personal growth.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate historical contexts and stories of overcoming adversity.

• Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Folklore
  • Synopsis: Minli, an adventurous girl from a poor village, sets out on a journey to find the Old Man of the Moon to ask how she can change her family’s fortune. The story is interwoven with Chinese folklore and stunning illustrations.
  • Why this book is challenging: It incorporates elements of folklore and fantasy, requiring readers to engage with narrative layers and cultural nuances.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating blend of adventure, folklore, and vibrant illustrations that inspire creativity and a deeper understanding of cultural stories.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy myths and tales of adventure, and those interested in exploring rich cultural narratives.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, illustrated by Carson Ellis
  • 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: The book features complex puzzles and moral dilemmas that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It engages readers with intriguing puzzles and mysteries, while also exploring themes of friendship, bravery, and the importance of being true to oneself.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle lovers and young strategists, as well as those who enjoy stories about teamwork and adventure.

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 girly books, here are a few exercises that can make reading even more fun and beneficial. These activities are designed to enhance their engagement and comprehension skills, making each reading session both enjoyable and educational.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and helps in achieving a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special corner in the house just for reading.
  • How it helps: Provides a comfortable and dedicated space that can enhance concentration and make reading a special activity.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions, lights, or decorations.

• Book Club with Friends
  • What it is: Form a small book club where your child and their friends read the same book and discuss it.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding through discussion and makes reading a social activity.
  • Tips: Organize monthly meetings where they can discuss the book, share insights, and even suggest the next read.

• Read Aloud Sessions
  • What it is: Spend time reading a book aloud with your child.
  • How it helps: Improves vocabulary and pronunciation skills, and it's a great bonding activity.
  • Tips: Alternate who reads each page or chapter to keep it interactive and engaging.

• Visual Reading Aids
  • What it is: Use tools like bookmarks, highlighters, or reading pointers.
  • How it helps: Keeps the reading organized and can help maintain focus on the text.
  • Tips: Encourage your child to choose or create their own bookmarks and highlight parts of the text they find interesting or important.

• Thematic Reading Days
  • What it is: Dedicate days to read books on specific themes, like Adventure Mondays or Fairy Tale Fridays.
  • How it helps: Makes reading exciting and gives your child something to look forward to.
  • Tips: Allow your child to pick the themes and help them find books that fit.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes from the books.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day after reading.

Incorporating these exercises into your child's reading routine can make a world of difference in how they perceive and interact with books. Not only will these activities foster a love for reading, but they'll also develop essential skills that are beneficial in many areas of life. So, grab some girly books and start exploring these exercises today!