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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that combines adventure and stealth? Look no further! Our roundup of Ninja Books for 10-Year-Olds is packed with thrilling tales that will transport your young reader right into the heart of secret missions and shadowy adventures. Whether they dream of becoming a ninja or just love a good action-packed story, we've got something that will keep them turning the pages. Keep reading to discover our top picks for Ninja Books for 10-Year-Olds!

Fun Ninja Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Magic Tree House: Night of the Ninjas by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In this installment of the Magic Tree House series, Jack and Annie are whisked away to ancient Japan where they encounter ninjas and must help them solve a mysterious challenge.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fantastic blend of history and adventure that keeps readers engaged while subtly educating them about historical Japan and the secretive world of ninjas.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and history buffs who enjoy time travel and suspenseful scenarios.

• Ninja Boy Goes to School by N. D. Wilson, illustrated by J. J. Harrison
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book follows a young ninja as he navigates the challenges of a regular school day with his unique ninja skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous and light-hearted read that encourages creativity and the use of imagination to overcome everyday challenges.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love to mix fantasy with their everyday lives and those who appreciate a good laugh.

• The Way of the Warrior (Young Samurai, Book 1) by Chris Bradford
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure, Martial Arts
  • Synopsis: After being shipwrecked in Japan, young Jack Fletcher is rescued by a samurai who teaches him the ways of the warrior. This is the first book in a series that combines historical detail with thrilling action.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an exciting introduction to Japanese culture and the disciplined life of a samurai, wrapped in action and adventure that will captivate young readers.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young samurais and anyone interested in Japanese history and martial arts.

• Flat Stanley's Worldwide Adventures #3: The Japanese Ninja Surprise by Jeff Brown, illustrated by Macky Pamintuan
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Humor, Travel
  • Synopsis: Stanley travels to Japan and finds himself helping a famous ninja master protect a historic script from thieves.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with adventure, providing a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about different cultures while enjoying the antics of Flat Stanley.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy travel, mysteries, and experiencing new cultures through humorous storytelling.

• Ninja Red Riding Hood by Corey Rosen Schwartz, illustrated by Dan Santat
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Fractured Fairy Tales, Humor
  • Synopsis: In this twist on the classic fairy tale, Red Riding Hood has trained in the art of ninjutsu and uses her skills to face off against a tricky wolf.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and empowering retelling that encourages problem-solving and self-defense, all wrapped up in delightful rhymes and vibrant illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy fairy tales with a twist and those who appreciate strong, clever protagonists.

Educational Ninja Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Ninja Club Sleepover by Laura Gehl, illustrated by MacKenzie Haley
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Willa, the only girl in the Ninja Club, is excited to prove her ninja skills during a sleepover. However, she must first overcome her fear of the dark to truly demonstrate her courage.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Courage, overcoming fears, friendship dynamics
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful story that combines themes of bravery and friendship with playful and engaging illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about friendship and personal growth.

• Diary of a 6th Grade Ninja by Marcus Emerson
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Humor, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: Chase Cooper finds himself recruited into a ninja clan on his first day at a new school, leading to a series of humorous and adventurous mishaps.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social skills, problem-solving, self-identity
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a fun and engaging look at school life through the eyes of a relatable protagonist dealing with both typical and wildly unique challenges.
  • Perfect for: Middle-grade readers who love stories that mix everyday school life with extraordinary adventures.

• Ninja! by Arree Chung
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Humor
  • Synopsis: A young boy uses his ninja skills to sneak around the house and attempt a mission to secure some milk and cookies.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Stealth tactics, imagination, family relationships
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous and energetic read that captures the essence of imaginative play and sibling dynamics.
  • Perfect for: Young children who love playful adventures and have a knack for getting into mischief.

• Wink: The Ninja Who Wanted to Be Noticed by J.C. Phillipps
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Humor, Self-Discovery
  • Synopsis: Wink, a young ninja-in-training, struggles because he wants to be noticed, unlike his fellow ninjas who strive to become invisible.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-acceptance, individuality, creativity
  • Why we recommend this book: This story is a charming tale about embracing one's unique qualities and finding a way to stand out while fitting in.
  • Perfect for: Kids who feel different and are looking for ways to embrace their individuality.

• Max and the Midknights: Battle of the Bodkins by Lincoln Peirce
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: Max and friends return in this thrilling sequel where they face off against mysterious creatures and embark on a quest that tests their bravery.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, historical knowledge, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: Combining humor with historical elements and adventure, it's perfect for engaging reluctant readers and encouraging a love of reading.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy graphic novels and medieval adventures with a comedic twist.

Challenging Ninja Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Ninjas, Piranhas, and Galileo by Greg Leitich Smith
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Three friends, Elias, Shohei, and Honoria, find themselves in a middle school trial for cheating, and their only way out is to prove their innocence through a series of clever and humorous strategies.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book features complex narrative structures and a sophisticated vocabulary that challenges advanced young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines science with humor and legal drama, providing a unique reading experience that promotes critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a blend of comedy, drama, and intellectual challenge.

• The Ninja Librarians: The Accidental Keyhand by Jen Swann Downey
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Dorrie and her brother Marcus stumble upon Petrarch’s Library, a secret society of librarian ninjas who travel through time to protect historical writers. They become embroiled in a dangerous adventure to safeguard the library's mission.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story integrates complex historical contexts and literary references, making it a stimulating read for children who are ready for more advanced material.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an imaginative and educational journey through important moments in history, wrapped in an exciting narrative.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who have a passion for history, literature, and time-travel adventures.

• Ninja Detective: The Case of the Time-Capsule Bandit by Octavia Spencer
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Randi Rhodes, a ninja detective, moves to a small town where she finds herself on the trail of a community time-capsule thief, using her martial arts skills and sharp mind to solve the mystery.
  • Why this book is challenging: The mystery is intricate, with clues that require critical thinking and attention to detail, providing a challenging puzzle for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages analytical thinking and perseverance, as readers can solve the mystery alongside the protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love mysteries, martial arts, and engaging in detective work.

• Shadow of the Ninja by Amie Jane Leavitt
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Set in 16th-century Japan, a young ninja named Sora and her brother Kenji embark on a dangerous mission to retrieve a stolen sword and prove their family's honor.
  • Why this book is challenging: The historical setting and the cultural details provide a complex backdrop that requires comprehension beyond simple narrative reading.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an exciting exploration of Japanese history and the ninja way of life, promoting cultural appreciation and historical knowledge.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history, ninjas, and thrilling historical adventures.

• Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Kyle Keeley, an ardent fan of all games, wins a coveted spot to be one of the first to enter an exciting new library created by game maker Mr. Lemoncello. The catch? He must solve puzzles and escape the library to win.
  • Why this book is challenging: The puzzles and riddles integrated into the plot require logical reasoning and lateral thinking, making it a mentally stimulating read for children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines the thrill of a game with the joys of reading, fostering a love for libraries and teamwork.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle lovers and young detectives who enjoy cracking codes and solving mysteries.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the thrilling world of ninja books, you're in for a lot of action and adventure. To make the most of your reading experience, especially if you're around 10 years old, it's great to develop some solid reading habits. Here are a few exercises that will not only enhance your reading skills but also make your journey through ninja books even more exciting.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and motivated to read regularly.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a special spot in your home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Reduces distractions and enhances concentration.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Use a Vocabulary Notebook
  • What it is: Keep a small notebook to write down new words and their meanings.
  • How it helps: Improves your vocabulary and understanding of the book.
  • Tips: Review this notebook regularly to reinforce new words.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention of the story.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book evokes in you.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Read the book out loud to yourself or to others.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and builds confidence in reading.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pace to match different characters or situations.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Boosts imagination and helps you visualize the story better.
  • Tips: Don't worry about artistic perfection; focus on how the scenes feel to you.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enjoy your ninja books more, but you'll also become a more skilled and enthusiastic reader. Remember, the key is consistency, so try to practice these exercises regularly. Happy reading, young ninja!