As children transition into fourth grade, summer is an important time to help them continue building confidence and excitement around reading. While summer should absolutely be filled with outdoor adventures, family time, travel, and opportunities to relax, it’s also a wonderful chance for children to discover books they truly love.
One of the most important ways to nurture lifelong readers is through choice. Because children enter fourth grade with a wide range of reading levels, interests, and personalities, I’ve included a variety of highly engaging books filled with humor, adventure, mystery, fantasy, graphic novels, heartfelt stories, and unforgettable characters. My hope is that every child can find books that spark curiosity, build confidence, and keep them excited about reading all summer long.
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FAST-PACED ADVENTURES
(Perfect for reluctant readers and kids who love page-turners)
Rescue on the Oregon Trail (Ranger in Time series) by Kate Messner; illustrated by Kelley McMorris
Ranger, a search-and-rescue dog discovers a magical first-aid kit that transports him through time. Before he knows it, Ranger travels to 1850 where he lands in Missouri at the starting point of the Oregon Trail. Ranger courageously follows the trail and alerts the families caravanning of several dangers. Children interested in history will be fascinated by the treachery the pioneers faced in this engaging story. Lexile 690
I Survived series by Lauren Tarshis
(Ages 8 and up)
This brilliant series is told from the point of view of a child experiencing an extreme moment in history. Whether trying to survive a natural disaster, escape from a predator, or endure the horrors of war, each book cleverly combines emotional storytelling with gripping details. Because the topics of the book focus on braving catastrophes, many elements of the story are scary, but that is also what makes them thrilling. The endings often leave the reader with a feeling of optimism and excitement to read another book in the series. Buy It Here
We recently read the graphic novel I Survived: The Sinking of the Titanic, 1912 and in addition to really enjoying the story, we also liked the bonus facts and photographs at the end. Buy It Here
Trapped in a Video Game by Dustin Brady
After testing out a new video game, best friends Jesse and Eric are sucked inside! Now it is up to the two buddies to work as a team to defeat the aliens and make their way home, all while avoiding a mysterious villain hunting them. Short action-packed chapters make this an excellent choice for video game lovers and reluctant readers. Lexile: 640
The Mysterious Moonstone (Key Hunters series) by Eric Luper; illustrated by Lisa Weber
When Cleo and Evan suspect their substitute librarian is up to no good, they follow her to a secret library under the school where they discover a magical door that transports them inside a book. The friends find themselves in 19th century London where they must find a stolen gem. Readers who like mystery and adventure will want to grab this series. Lexile 610/ Fountas & Pinnell: O
Max and the Midnights by Lincoln Peirce
Max and her loyal band of friends embark on an epic quest to save her Uncle Budrick and become the hero she always knew she was destined to be. Full of magic and adventure, this one has a ton of kid appeal.
Harriet the Invincible (Hamster Princess series) by Ursula Vernon
Harriet is not your typical princess. After learning she is cursed to eternal slumber when she reaches her twelfth birthday, she believes she is invincible until then and sets out on a series of adventures to live her life to the fullest while she still can. With pops of purple, the black and white illustrations showcase Harriet’s extreme exploits while the comical text outlines her courageous character. Lexile: 810
Mac Undercover (Mac B. Kid Spy series) by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Mike Lowery, 2018
In this quirky story, acclaimed author Mac Barnett, reveals that he was actually a super spy as a child. Set in the 1980’s, the humorous tale takes readers on a hysterical adventure of Mac flying to London to aid the queen in the mystery of her missing Crown Jewels. While some of the humor may go over kids’ heads, they won’t care because they will be having so much fun reading about Mac’s exciting escapade traveling the world in this comical story.
The Last Kids on Earthby Max Brallier; illustrated by Douglas Holgate
Jack Sullivan, was just another kid before the Apocalypse, but now, he has sharpened his survival skills and transformed into a monster-fighting machine. He, along with old and new friends band together to save what is left of the world. Made even more popular by the Netflix show, this thrill-seeking adventure story is the perfect mix of humor and action. Lexile: 650
HEARTFELT AND FUNNY REALISTIC FICTION
(Books kids connect with emotionally with plenty of humor mixed in.)
Oliver’s Great Big Universe by Jorge Cham
Using a diary-style format, this hilarious book follows eleven-year-old Oliver as he navigates the ups and downs of his first year of middle school. As a science lover, Oliver constantly connects his everyday experiences back to the universe with laugh-out-loud results. Packed with humor, comics, diagrams, and tons of illustrations, this entertaining read is an especially fantastic choice for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced stories and learning fascinating science facts without even realizing it.
Ben Yokoyama and the Cookie of Doom (series) by Matthew Swanson, illustrated by Robbi Behr
When Ben Yokoyama receives a fortune cookie instructing him to live each day like it’s his last, he takes the words to heart and makes a list of all the things he wants to accomplish on his last day on Earth. What ensues is a hysterical story following this lovable character along with his best friend and quirky family as they each lead a lifechanging day no one will forget. Bursting with humor, warmth, and lively illustrations, this book is an absolute joy to read. Kids and adults alike will be eager for more adventures with the endearing Ben Yokoyama.
Zara’s Rules for Record-Breaking Fun by Hena Khan; illustrated Wastana Haikal
Zara Saleem proudly considers herself the queen of her neighborhood. Her favorite pastime is organizing events to ensure all her friends have an amazing time. When a new girl moves in across the street with her own ideas, however, Zara’s throne is threatened. Readers will cheer for Zara as she attempts to break a world record while overcoming her jealous feelings and forming a new friendship.
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume
This series has withstood the test of time for a reason. The dynamic between fourth grader Peter Hatcher and his rambunctious little brother Fudge is nothing short of hilarious! Lexile: 470/ Fountas & Pinnell: Q
Planet Omar Accidental Trouble Magnet by Zanib Mian, illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik
With his giant imagination, Omar is such a likeable character. The story follows him as he starts a new school, gains friends, struggles with a class bully, and navigates growing up.
Alvin Ho : Allergic to Camping, Hiking, and Other Natural Disasters by Lenore Look; illustrated by LeUyen Pham
Alvin Ho is scared of pretty much everything, but he is working through his anxieties. Humor abounds as he joins his little sister and his dad on a camping trip with comical results.
Stuntboy: In the Meantime by Jason Reynolds; illustrated by Raúl the Third
This heavily illustrated story, stars Portico Reeves who believes he is a superhero whose power is keeping his family and friends safe. While there is plenty of humor, there is also depth as readers learn that Portico suffers from anxiety and he fears his parents will be getting a divorce soon. With a cast of quirky characters, an engaging format, and a story with a lot of heart, this unique tale is irresistible.
Justin Case: Shells, Smells, and the Horrible Flip-Flops of Doom by Rachel Vail
After surviving his third-grade year, chronic worrier Justin Case bravely takes on a sports camp for the summer. Written in the form of a journal, this relatable story about the trials and tribulations of being a kid is a ton of fun. Lexile: 920L / Fountas & Pinnell: O
The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies
Evan is devastated to learn that his little sister is not only skipping third grade, but will now be in his new 4th grade class. Their feud escalates during a competition to see who can make the most money selling lemonade during the last week of summer. With elements of math and entrepreneurship, combined with a sensitive sibling rivalry storyline, this relatable story is a great choice for summer. Lexile: 630
FANTASY, SCIFI, & MAGICAL ADVENTURES
(Perfect for readers who love imaginative worlds and unforgettable series)
Once Upon a Tim by Stuart Gibbs, illustrated by Stacy Curtis
Tim is a peasant who jumps at the opportunity to become a knight. As he sets out with his friend, Belinda, to rescue a princess, he unwittingly walks into a trap. With silly illustrations, this funny story is sure to engage many.
How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell
On the island of Berk, it is every Viking’s rite of passage to capture and train a dragon. When Hiccup finds the smallest dragon with no teeth, he becomes the laughing stock of the village. They form a special connection, however, and surprise everyone with their brains and bravery. This is such a fun series full of action, humor, and unlikely heroes. My kids absolutely love it!
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
After waking up in a forest alone and with no memory, Roz, a robot, must learn how to survive in the wild. Though programmed for logical tasks, she finds a way to befriend the animals until her past comes back to haunt her.
Growing Home by Beth Ferry, illustrated by The Fan Brothers
Welcome to Number 3 Ramshorn Drive, a house that may look ordinary on the outside, but holds an extraordinary tale within. Antique dealers Mr. and Mrs. Tupper live there with their curious daughter Jillian, a houseplant named Ivy, and their pet fish, Toasty. But when a book-loving spider arrives and a second plant named Ollie joins the mix, the household begins to suspect that the water in Toasty’s tank might just be magical.
Beth Ferry weaves this whimsical story with rich vocabulary, vivid similes and metaphors, witty dialogue, and irresistibly endearing characters. With short, snappy chapters and a perfect blend of heart and humor, this is a delightful read-aloud for both home and classroom that will leave kids begging for one more chapter.
Fairest of All (Whatever After series) by Sarah Mlynowski
When siblings Abby and Jonah accidentally fall through a magic mirror into the story of Snow White, they think they’re helping by stopping her from eating the poisoned apple. Unfortunately, this sets her life on a different course where she never meets her true love. Now, they must set things right to restore the happy ending. With 17 books in this series, there are so many fun fairy tales to explore along with Abby and Jonah.
Upside Down Magic by Sarah Mlynowski, Lauren Myracle, and Emily Jenkins
With her father being the headmaster of Sage Academy, a school for magical children, it is assumed that is where Nory will attend. When her magic goes wonky during her entrance exam, however, Nory is forced to move in with her aunt and join the local public school. Here she meets other students who struggle with upside-down magic. This is an entertaining coming-of-age story mixed with enchanting elements.
Dragons in a Bag by Zetta Elliott, illustrated by Geneva B
Facing eviction from his apartment, Jaxon fears things can’t get worse, which is exactly when he meets a witch who changes his life forever. She entices him to help deliver dragons to a secret world filled with magic.Full of adventure and interesting characters, this one is a real winner!
BOOKS FOR ANIMAL LOVERS
(Heartfelt stories readers won’t forget)
Paws: Gabby Gets It Together by Nathan Fairbairn; illustrated by Michele Assarasakorn
*** GRAPHIC NOVEL
A graphic novel series with inclusive characters who display impressive problem-solving skills, financial responsibility, and navigate the ins and outs of friendship? Yes, please!
Gabby, Priya, and Mindy are three friends whose love of animals and frustration at not being allowed to have a pet drive them to start a dog walking business. They encounter several obstacles that they solve with quick wits, a hard work ethic, and helpful adults. The realistic scenarios are mixed with comical situations creating an entertaining and empowering read.
The World According to Humphrey by Betty G. Birney
This adorable classroom pet could not be cuter! My kids absolutely loved following Humphrey the hamster as he observed, befriended, and quietly helped the students of Room 26 while learning right alongside them. Filled with humor, heart, and lovable characters, this charming series is such a wonderful choice for kids.
The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary
This is childhood favorite of mine and I was thrilled my children loved it too. Ralph, a curious and adventurous mouse loves spying on the guests in the hotel he resides in. When he discovers a toy motorcycle, he can’t resist taking it for a spin setting off a series of hilarious hijinks and leading to an unexpected and heartwarming friendship.
Home Sweet Forever Home (Invincible Girls series) by Rachele Alpine; illustrated by Addy Rivera Sonda
While reading at a dog shelter, Lauren and her friends are inspired to find ways to help the dogs get adopted. Animal lovers will be clamoring to read this empowering friendship story.
Dogtown by Katherine Applegate and Gennifer Choldenko
This is a heartfelt and unforgettable story about friendship, hope, and finding where you belong. Set in a shelter for abandoned dogs and robot pets, the story follows Chance, a lonely three-legged dog longing for a forever home. Filled with humor, adventure, and emotion, this unique novel is a wonderful choice for animal lovers and readers who enjoy stories with big heart and memorable characters.
Odder by Katherine Applegate
This beautifully written novel-in-verse is inspired by the true story of a rescued sea otter. The story follows playful and curious Odder as she spends her days swimming, exploring, and practicing her impressive otter tricks until a life-changing event leads her to a marine animal rehabilitation center. Heartfelt, hopeful, and filled with fascinating details about sea otters, this touching story celebrates resilience, friendship, and the incredible bond between animals and humans.
FASCINATING NONFICTION
(Books that help readers better understand the world)
Apollo 13 (Totally True Adventures series) by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld
The students at my school could not get enough of this fascinating series that provides a glimpse into history through a narrative story line. Each book is fast-paced and highlights captivating people and events from the past. This installment focuses on the courageous astronauts who survived the catastrophic explosion of an oxygen tank inside their spaceship. Lexile 630/ Fountas & Pinnell: P
Who Was seriesHistory lovers will eat this series up! Paired with black and white illustrations, this chapter book biography series is an engaging way to introduce important historical figures to children. Note that the books vary in reading level.
Unsolved Case Files series by Tom Sullivan
Filled with eye-catching color illustrations paired with fascinating facts about some of the FBI’s most mysterious unsolved cases, this new series is a must-have. There is a surprising amount of information packed into the books that had me excited to learn right along with my son. A detailed overview of the crime, complete with breakout boxes, reproduced documents, and photographs help readers come to their own conclusions about what happened to the evasive criminals in these mesmerizing true-crime stories.
My son absolutely loves both Escape At 10,000 Feet and Jailbreak at Alcatraz and we are now anxiously awaiting the third book in the series The 500 Million Dollar Heist.
History Smashers Ancient Egypt by Kate Messner
With an engaging format that weaves in comics and photographs, this fascinating series is such an entertaining way to teach kids about history. This installment introduces children to various 
aspects of Ancient Egypt and dispels several popular myths that will blow their minds. My daughter and I also read the History Smashers Salem Witch Trials and absolutely loved it.
GRAPHIC NOVELS KIDS CAN’T PUT DOWN
(Highly engaging reads perfect for visual learners and reluctant readers
Camp by Kayla Miller
Olive and Willow are headed to camp for the first time. While Olive immediately settles in and makes new friends, Willow struggles with homesickness and grows jealous of Olive’s ability to branch outside their friendship. The two girls finally talk through their feelings and are able to create great memories at camp together while also exploring their separate interests. This is a terrific story about navigating friendships and getting insight into the camp experience.
Mellybean and the Giant Monster by Mike White
Exuberant Mellybean is a pup who wants to play all the time. While digging in the backyard, she is accidentally transported to a medieval-like world filled with knights, royalty, and monsters! Adorable illustrations paired with comical situations follow Mellybean and her new friends as she sets out to defeat a tyrannical king.
Spy School: The Graphic Novel by Stuart Gibbs; illustrated by Anjan Sarker
Due to his extraordinary gaming and math skills, Ben Ripley is recruited to the CIA’s Academy of Espionage. He quickly discovers there is danger and deception lurking at every corner. As he sharpens his skills and makes new friends, he must also find his way through several comical mishaps and discover who is framing him for a crime.
This one is perfect for kids who want to experience the thrill of Spy School, but aren’t ready for the full chapter book.
The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Shawn Harris
Silly shenanigans ensue as a courageous cat enters space to stop a group of evil rats from eating the moon. Our family loves Mac Barnett’s sense of humor, so my son couldn’t wait to get his hands on this new graphic novel and it did not disappoint. This one is a ton of fun!
Katie the Cat Sitter by Colleen AF Venable, illustrated by Stephanie Yu
Desperate to join her friends at camp, Katie takes a part-time job as a catsitter to earn the money for the final weeks. But this is no ordinary gig. Her new workplace houses 217 cats, all owned by a mysterious woman who may or may not be a secret villain. Katie’s journey of juggling changing friendships with her first job is a humorous and engaging story that my daughter and I both could not get enough of.
Sidekicks by Dan Santat
This hilarious, action-packed graphic novel features superhero Captain Amazing and his equally amazing pets. When his dog, cat, hamster, and chameleon suddenly develop superpowers, they each set out to prove they deserve to be Captain Amazing’s next sidekick. Filled with humor, adventure, and heart, this wildly entertaining story is a fantastic choice for readers who love superheroes, friendship, and laugh-out-loud graphic novels.
InvestiGators (series) by John Green
With its fast-paced plot, slapstick humor, and pun-filled dialogue, kids won’t be able to resist this comical tale of two alligator spies! Armed with super cool spy technology, Mango and Brash work for S.U.I.T. (Special Undercover Investigator Teams) and are challenged with finding a missing chef in their first adventure. Lexile 390
Zita the Spacegirl (series) by Ben Hatke
When a mysterious red button appears in front of Zita and her friend Joseph, they can’t resist pushing it and are transported to an alien planet. With its imaginative story line and quirky humor, it is hard to resist this engaging book! Lexile 310
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