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

Navigating the world of parenting a 9-year-old can feel like a rollercoaster ride, full of unexpected twists and turns. Fortunately, there are numerous parenting books for 9-year-olds that offer expert advice and practical strategies to help you manage this unique stage of childhood. Whether you're looking for guidance on discipline, education, or emotional support, these resources can be incredibly valuable. Keep reading to discover our curated lists of the best parenting books for 9-year-olds, tailored to help you and your child thrive during these formative years.

Fun Parenting Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows a young pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a barn spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte writes messages praising Wilbur in her web to persuade the farmer to spare his life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that teaches about friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, all wrapped up in engaging, beautifully written prose.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who appreciate stories of friendship and adventure.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This novel follows a bored young boy named Milo who unexpectedly receives a magic tollbooth that transports him to the Lands Beyond, where he embarks on a quest filled with puns, wordplay, and wisdom.
  • Why we recommend this book: The book combines adventure with a clever play on words and concepts that stimulate the imagination and encourage a love for reading and learning.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy fantasy and humor, and anyone who loves a story that plays with language and ideas.

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Fantasy, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: Matilda is a brilliant and sensitive girl, neglected by her family, who discovers she has magical powers. At school, she befriends her kind teacher, Miss Honey, and uses her abilities to defend her friends from the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story of a young girl who uses her intelligence and powers to overcome obstacles and fight for justice.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories of triumph and have a keen sense of justice, as well as those who enjoy a bit of magic.

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This story centers on Despereaux Tilling, a brave mouse in love with music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It intertwines his tale with that of a servant girl named Miggery Sow and a rat named Roscuro, all converging in a quest that involves dungeons, darkness, and a fight for what is right.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written saga about bravery and forgiveness that also delves into complex emotions and the importance of stories.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate fairy tales and narratives that explore the darker and brighter sides of life.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: The story follows August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time. Through multiple perspectives, it addresses themes of acceptance, resilience, and the impact of kindness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes empathy and understanding, encouraging readers to accept and celebrate differences in themselves and others.
  • Perfect for: Children who are navigating school dynamics and learning how to empathize with diverse peers.

Educational Parenting Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This novel is based on the true story of Ivan, a gorilla who lived in a shopping mall for 27 years without seeing another of his kind. Through Ivan's eyes, the story explores themes of friendship, art, and the power of perspective.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, animal welfare awareness, creative expression through art
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching narrative that not only provides insight into the feelings and thoughts of animals but also teaches about compassion and the importance of a proper habitat for wildlife.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in stories that promote empathy and creative expression.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classic, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: After the sudden death of her parents, Mary Lennox is sent to live with her uncle in a gloomy, mysterious mansion. She discovers a neglected garden and, with the help of new friends, brings it back to life as she blossoms herself.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of emotional growth, gardening knowledge, interpersonal relationships
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully illustrates the transformative power of nature and friendship on a young person's life.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about personal growth and the healing power of nature.

• The BFG by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: A little orphan girl named Sophie meets the Big Friendly Giant (BFG) who, unlike other giants, does not eat children. Together, they embark on an adventure to stop the man-eating giants once and for all.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, vocabulary expansion through playful language, courage in facing fears
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a whimsical and heartwarming tale that encourages bravery and compassion while entertaining with its unique language and imaginative plot.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love fantasy adventures and stories about unlikely friendships.

• Frindle by Andrew Clements
  • Genre(s): Fiction, School Story, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: Nick Allen invents a new word, "frindle," for what is commonly known as a pen, sparking a series of events that captures the nation's attention.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Innovation, vocabulary, understanding of language and its development
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases the influence one individual can have on language and society, inspiring creativity and the power of words.
  • Perfect for: Students and young readers interested in language and those who enjoy stories about school and innovation.

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Fantasy, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Jess Aarons and his friendship with Leslie Burke, who together create the magical world of Terabithia in the woods near their homes as a place of refuge and adventure.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Imagination, dealing with grief, friendship dynamics
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a poignant story that deals with the themes of friendship, loss, and the power of imagination.
  • Perfect for: Children facing or learning about loss and those who appreciate deeply emotional narratives.

Challenging Parenting Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Children's Literature
  • 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 thwart a global crisis.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book features complex puzzles and moral dilemmas that require advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages strategic thinking and teamwork while providing a thrilling narrative that keeps readers engaged.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and puzzle enthusiasts who love a good intellectual challenge.

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe embark on a journey across dimensions to save their father from an evil force.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces concepts of theoretical physics and complex themes of good versus evil.
  • Why we recommend this book: This timeless novel blends science fiction with a deep emotional core, inspiring readers to think beyond the visible.
  • Perfect for: Science enthusiasts and young readers who enjoy stories that combine adventure with a deeper look at the universe and human relationships.

• The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: A young prince from a tiny asteroid embarks on a journey across the universe, exploring various planets and meeting unique characters, ultimately learning about the complexities of adult behavior through his adventures.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores philosophical themes such as loneliness, friendship, and love through metaphorical storytelling.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers profound insights into human nature and relationships, wrapped in a simple yet captivating story.
  • Perfect for: Deep thinkers and young philosophers, as well as readers who appreciate stories that encourage reflection on personal values and relationships.

• From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: Claudia Kincaid and her younger brother Jamie run away from home to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where they uncover a mysterious statue possibly sculpted by Michelangelo.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story involves complex problem-solving and historical research, requiring readers to think analytically.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with a historical art mystery, encouraging curiosity and a love for learning.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and art lovers, as well as any kid who's dreamed of a museum adventure.

• The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: In a city shrouded in perpetual darkness, two young residents, Lina and Doon, discover clues that could lead them to the outside world they've never seen.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel presents a complex society with its own political and technological challenges, requiring readers to understand and contemplate deeper societal issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping story that explores themes of survival and hope, pushing readers to think about the importance of progress and questioning the status quo.
  • Perfect for: Fans of dystopian settings and young readers who enjoy thrilling quests and solving mysteries.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 9-year-old develop stellar reading habits, integrating some fun and effective exercises can really make a difference. Here are a few exercises that you can incorporate into your routine using some great parenting books for this age group. Let's dive in!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Establish a number of books or pages to read each week.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to keep motivation high.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special place in the house just for reading.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a special, enjoyable activity.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions or posters.

• Read Together Time
  • What it is: Schedule regular sessions where you read the same book together.
  • How it helps: Strengthens reading skills and enhances bonding.
  • Tips: Discuss the book as you go to improve comprehension and engage deeper.

• Book Club for Kids
  • What it is: Start a book club with your child and their friends.
  • How it helps: Encourages social interaction and critical thinking.
  • Tips: Rotate who picks the book to keep the club exciting and inclusive.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Integrate technology by using an app designed for young readers.
  • How it helps: Makes reading interactive and fun.
  • Tips: Choose apps that are age-appropriate and have educational value.

• Story Map Creation
  • What it is: Have your child draw a map or timeline of the story they are reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of plot and character relationships.
  • Tips: Use colorful markers or digital tools to make the activity more engaging.

• Character Role-Play
  • What it is: Encourage your child to act out their favorite character from the book.
  • How it helps: Deepens connection with the story and boosts comprehension.
  • Tips: Join in the role-play to make it more fun and interactive.

Incorporating these exercises into your child's reading routine not only makes reading more enjoyable but also enhances their skills and love for books. Give them a try and watch your little reader flourish!