10+ Best Story Books for 8-10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect story books for 8-10-year-olds? You're in the right place! Whether you're looking to ignite a passion for reading or keep that bookworm enthusiasm alive, we've curated a collection of captivating reads that are just right for this curious age group. Keep reading to discover our diverse lists of story books that promise to engage, entertain, and educate young readers.

Fun Story Books for 8-10-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's literature
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a clever spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte writes messages in her web to persuade the farmer to spare his life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life in a way that is accessible and touching for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and children who appreciate stories about friendship and teamwork.

• The BFG by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A young 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 other giants from eating children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a whimsical and imaginative story that encourages creativity and shows the power of friendship and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fantastical tales and quirky characters.

• Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is sent to a camp for demigods like him. He soon embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods by finding the stolen lightning bolt of Zeus.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling adventure with Greek mythology, making it an exciting way to learn about classical myths in a modern setting.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous kids who love stories about heroes and mythical creatures.

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Comedy
  • Synopsis: Matilda is a young girl with extraordinary intelligence and telekinetic powers. She uses her abilities to overcome difficulties with her family and school, and to help her beloved teacher Miss Honey.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the power of reading and intelligence and shows that kindness can triumph over cruelty.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who feel misunderstood or who love stories where kids triumph over adversity.

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Harry Potter learns on his 11th birthday that he is the orphaned son of two powerful wizards and possesses unique magical powers of his own. He attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to learn about his past and his abilities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It opens up a magical world full of wonder and adventure, fostering imagination and a love for reading.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy magical adventures and stories about friendship and courage.

Educational Story Books for 8-10-Year-Olds

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Fairy Tale
  • Synopsis: This story is about Despereaux Tilling, a small mouse with big ears who loves music, literature, and a princess named Pea. It follows his adventures as he navigates a world filled with darkness and danger to save the princess.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, empathy, courage, and understanding complex narratives
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written fairy tale that combines adventure with themes of bravery and forgiveness.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fairy tales and stories of unlikely heroes.

• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Patricia Castelao
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Story
  • Synopsis: This novel is based on the true story of Ivan, a captive gorilla who lived in a shopping mall. The story is told from Ivan's perspective, focusing on his friendships with the other animals and his efforts to change their circumstances.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, awareness of animal welfare, creative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a touching and thought-provoking look at the way humans treat animals, encouraging compassion and action.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young activists who are passionate about animal rights and welfare.

• Frindle by Andrew Clements, illustrated by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, School Story
  • 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: Vocabulary building, creativity, understanding of language and communication
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and engaging story that shows the power of words and ideas, and how a simple act can lead to big changes.
  • Perfect for: Students who are imaginative and interested in language, and those who enjoy school-based stories.

• The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Roz the robot is stranded on a remote, wild island and must learn to survive and navigate the challenges of the natural environment while making friends with the island's wildlife.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem solving, adaptation, environmental science
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of technology and nature, encouraging readers to think about how they interact and depend on each other.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in technology, nature, and stories about survival and friendship.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Realistic Fiction, Social Issues
  • Synopsis: The story follows August Pullman, a boy with facial differences, as he attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time and strives for acceptance and kindness.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of diversity and inclusion, social skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartfelt and inspiring story that promotes understanding and acceptance of differences.
  • Perfect for: Children who are learning about kindness, empathy, and overcoming challenges.

Challenging Story Books for 8-10-Year-Olds

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • 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 advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages teamwork, intelligence, and perseverance through engaging and intricate plot twists.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love puzzles and mysteries, and those who enjoy stories about secret missions and teamwork.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Bored young Milo receives a mysterious tollbooth that transports him to the Kingdom of Wisdom, where he embarks on a quest to rescue the princesses of Rhyme and Reason.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story is filled with puns, wordplay, and philosophical concepts that challenge young readers to think about the meanings and implications of their actions and words.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and imaginative journey that celebrates the joys of learning and the importance of asking questions.
  • Perfect for: Curious children who enjoy word games and whimsical adventures that challenge their minds.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magical Realism
  • Synopsis: A young girl named Luna is accidentally enmagicked as a baby and raised by a witch. As she grows, her magic becomes increasingly difficult to control, leading to unforeseen consequences.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure is complex, and the themes of power, sacrifice, and coming-of-age are deeply woven into the story.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique and beautifully written tale that explores the nuances of love and power, and the responsibilities that come with them.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate intricate storytelling and magical tales with strong, complex characters.

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1930s Paris, an orphan boy named Hugo lives in the walls of a train station, tending to the clocks and trying to repair an automaton that his father left behind.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's unique blend of text and intricate illustrations requires readers to interpret visual elements alongside the written word, enhancing their visual literacy.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a visually stunning and emotionally engaging story that combines elements of history, technology, and mystery.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are interested in art, history, and stories that blend words and pictures in innovative ways.

• The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror, Mystery
  • Synopsis: After his family is murdered, a toddler wanders into a graveyard where the ghosts and other supernatural residents agree to raise him as one of their own.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with dark themes and has a non-linear narrative that intertwines various folklore and supernatural elements.
  • Why we recommend this book: It is a captivating and eerie story that explores themes of life, death, and belonging in a unique setting.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy spooky stories and ghost tales, as well as those who appreciate stories about unconventional families and growing up.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 8-10-year-olds develop great reading habits, I've got some fun and effective exercises that can make reading a more engaging and rewarding experience. These exercises are designed to be enjoyable while enhancing their comprehension and love for reading. Let's dive in!

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Choose a specific number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and makes daily progress measurable.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them as your child becomes more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special corner in your home as a reading area.
  • How it helps: Provides a comfortable and distraction-free environment that can enhance focus and enjoyment.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the nook 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: Promotes social interaction and deeper engagement with the text through discussion.
  • Tips: Schedule regular meetings and encourage the kids to come up with questions or topics for discussion.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book after reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and recall by connecting text with visual creativity.
  • Tips: Provide a variety of art supplies and encourage your child to express how they imagine different aspects of the story.

• Read Aloud Together
  • What it is: Spend time reading the story aloud with your child.
  • How it helps: Improves vocabulary and reading fluency; also a great way for family bonding.
  • Tips: Take turns reading and use different voices for different characters to make it more fun and engaging.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Incorporate technology by using an app designed for child readers.
  • How it helps: Offers interactive features and rewards that can motivate children to read more.
  • Tips: Choose apps that are age-appropriate and have educational value.

• Challenge with a Reading List
  • What it is: Create a seasonal or yearly reading list with a variety of books.
  • How it helps: Encourages exploration of different genres and authors, broadening their literary horizons.
  • Tips: Include a mix of both challenging books and those purely for enjoyment to keep the list balanced and exciting.

In conclusion, developing good reading habits in kids between the ages of 8 and 10 can be a delightful adventure that sets the foundation for lifelong learning and enjoyment of literature. By integrating these exercises into their routine, you're not only enhancing their reading skills but also their creativity, social skills, and much more. Happy reading!