One way to help children identify books that are a good fit is by using the five finger test:
- Pick a book and open it to any page.
- Start reading and hold up one finger for every word you don’t know.
- 0 – 1 fingers indicates that the book may be too easy
- 2 – 3 fingers means that this story is most likely a good fit and will allow children to learn new words
- 4 – 5 fingers signifies that this book may be too challenging for this time
Many of the below books are part of a series. If your reader enjoys the first book, I suggest finding more in the same series to continue their enthusiasm for reading.
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BEST BOOKS FOR NEWLY INDEPENDENT READERS
Perfect for children entering second grade, these engaging books are geared toward newly independent readers transitioning away from easy readers and into slightly more challenging text. With supportive illustrations, repeated vocabulary, and plenty of dialogue, these books help children build fluency, stamina, and confidence while making reading feel fun and rewarding.
Kitty and Dragon (series) by Meika Hashimoto, illustrated by Gillian Reid, 2022
Full of humor and charm, this delightful series follows unlikely friends Kitty and Dragon through several comical adventures. The full-color illustrations are so expressive and eye catching while the easy-to-read text is perfect for kids transitioning from Easy Readers. Lexile 420
Bear and Bird: The Picnic and Other Stories by Jarvis
This is an adorable series filled with humor, charming illustrations, and characters that show kindness and compassion. With four short chapters to build readers’ confidence, the story follows best friends Bear and Bird through several amusing mishaps that make this book a true delight.
Poppleton (series) Scholastic Acorn Line by Cynthia Rylant; illustrated by Mark Teague
Three classic stories of a city pig who moves to the country are combined in this new release that also includes drawing instructions and a writing prompt. The original Poppleton stories were written decades ago, but there is a quiet charm to these stories that make them feel timeless. Lexile: 460L/ Fountas & Pinnell: J
Ling and Ting Not Exactly the Same (series) by Grace Lin
This Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor book stars two amiable twin sisters who partake in a variety of adventures in six short chapters. There is an old-fashion charm to these books that is both playful and whimsical. Elements of Chinese culture such as making dumplings and learning to use chopsticks are effortlessly woven in adding to the allure of the stories. Each chapter is only a few pages long, leaving children eager to read Ling and Ting’s next escapade. Lexile: 390L / Fountas & Pinnell: K
Henry and Mudge and the First Book of Their Adventures (series) by Cynthia Rylant; illustrated by Sucie Stevenson
This unforgettable easy reader has withstood the test of time and is still a go-to for many classroom teachers. The story of a lonely boy who finds friendship with a large dog is relatable and many children will enjoy reading about the twosome’s many adventures together. Lexile: 460L/ Fountas & Pinnell: J
Penny series by Kevin Henkes
Award-winning author and illustrator Kevin Henkes brings his refined charm to this easy reader series starring a friendly mouse named Penny. Adorned with Kevin Henkes’ signature artwork, these quaint stories follow Penny as she shares a song with her family, finds a neighbor’s marble, thinks of a name for her doll, and waits for snow.
Penny’s quiet nature and curiosity is sure to resonate with many children and the books have a classic feel about them that will be attractive to parents and kids. Lexile: 470L
Frog and Toad Are Friends (series) by Arnold Lobel
There is a reason these classic easy readers have been popular for the last forty years. It’s hard not to smile at the sweet friendship between Frog and Toad and the droll exploits they share. The award-winning illustrations add to the quaint feel of the stories and children and adults will most likely cherish these enchanting tales. Lexile: 400L/ Guided Reading Level: K
King & Kayla and the Case of the Missing Dog Treats (series) by Dori Hillestad Butler; illustrated by Nancy Meyers
Kayla excitedly makes dog treats for her friend’s new puppy, but when three go missing, she suspects her own pet, King. Told from King’s point of view, he and Kayla work together to find the real culprit. Many readers will enjoy following the charming characters as they find clues and solve mysteries. Lexile: 440L / Fountas & Pinnell: L
Cornbread & Poppy by Matthew Cordell, 2022
While opposites in many ways, Cornbread and Poppy are the best of friends. When carefree Poppy doesn’t collect enough food for the winter, loyal Cornbread agrees to venture up the mysterious mountain outside their village to harvest food. Full of charming illustrations, this delightful friendship story has the perfect amount of drama and cuteness that kept my daughter engaged and excited to read. Guided Reading Level: L
Barkus by Patricia MacLachlan; illustrated by Marc Boutavant, 2022
Large colorful pictures accompany short chapters that share the adventures of a girl and her large brown dog. Animal lovers will particularly enjoy following along as Barkus meets his new family, sneaks into school, celebrates his birthday, and makes a new friend. Guided Reading Level: L
National Geographic Easy Reader Series
Filled with stunning photography, National Geographic has created an easy reader series that helps children build important literacy skills while also learning about the world around them. Each level contains different nonfiction elements such as table of contents, headings, captions, and sometimes diagrams. Learn more about the National Geographic Easy Reader Series HERE.
BEST BOOKS FOR KIDS TRANSITIONING INTO CHAPTER BOOKS
Transitional chapter books are designed to help newly independent readers bridge the gap between easy readers and longer middle grade novels. These engaging stories are typically divided into short chapters, include supportive illustrations throughout, and feature longer sentences, richer vocabulary, and more developed storylines while still feeling approachable and manageable for growing readers
Murray and Bun! (series) by Adam Stowler, 2025
(Ages 6 and up)
This hilarious new series stars Murray, a wizard’s adorable cat, and his best pal Bun, a cinnamon bun-turned-rabbit thanks to a magical mishap. When a botched spell turns Murray’s cat door into a gateway to wild adventures, Murray and Bun find themselves in exciting escapades battling knights and searching for lost Viking in troll-filled forests. The expressive black-and-white illustrations and comical dialogue make this new series irresistible.
Meet Yasmin! (series) by Saadia Faruqi; illustrated by Hatem Aly
Yasmin is a spunky, creative second-grader learning how to navigate life. Her adventures are captured in short chapters filled with colorful illustrations making this early chapter book accessible for new readers. Pakistani and Muslim cultural details are effortlessly woven into the stories with a glossary and additional facts about Pakistan located in the backmatter.
Henry Heckelbeck Gets a Dragon by Wanda Coven; illustrated by Priscilla Burris
Henry may seem like an ordinary boy preparing for his first day of school, but with his mom and sister as witches, magic and mayhem seem to follow him. When Henry decides to bring in his toy dragon to share with his class, he is shocked when it comes to life. As he tries to hide his dragon, he makes a new friend in the process. Lexile: 590L / Fountas & Pinnell: M
Mia Mayhem by Kara West, illustrated by Leeza Hernandez, 2018
Mia has always felt hopelessly clumsy until she discovers at age eight that she’s actually a superhero. Suddenly, everything makes sense. Enrolled in the afterschool Program for In-Training Superheroes (a.k.a. THE PITS), Mia must learn to control and grow her powers while keeping her secret identity under wraps. Packed with humor, heart, and relatable moments, this series is a fun win for emerging readers who love superheroes.
A New Friend (The Adventures of Sophie Mouse series) by Poppy Green; illustrated by Jennifer A. Bell, 2015
Sophie Mouse is excited for her first day of school, but is shocked with a scary snake walks into her classroom. In this gentle tale, she learns look beyond appearances and make a new friend. Sophie is a delightful character and many children will love reading about her charming exploits. Lexile 600/ Guided Reading Level N
Eva’s Treetop Festival (Owl Diaries series) Scholastic Branches Line by Rebecca Elliott
Eva is a fashionable young owl who is excited to plan her school’s first ever treetop festival. She initially tries to do all the work herself, but learns the value in collaborating with friends. The diary format mixed with large, colorful pictures, makes this transitional chapter book very accessible to young readers. With tons of visual appeal, a plucky protagonist, and amusing wordplay, it’s no wonder this series is so popular. Lexile: 560L
Stealing the Sword (Time Jumpers series) by Wendy Mass
(Ages 6 and up)
When siblings Chase and Ava discover an old suitcase filled with mysterious objects, they soon learn each item can transport them to a different time and place. In the first book of this thrilling series, they are whisked away to King Arthur’s castle, where they meet the legendary Merlin. When a dangerous plot against the king is revealed, the siblings must work together to stop it and find their way back home. Each installment sends Chase and Ava on a new time-traveling adventure, making this an action-packed series readers will eagerly return to.
The Princess in Black (series) by Shannon Hale; illustrated by LeUyen Pham
This popular series stars Princess Magnolia who may appear poised and proper, but she harbors a secret identity as the Princess in Black. This daring girl bravely faces evil-doers and readers will relish in reading about the self-reliant heroine. Color illustrations break up the longer text making this chapter book more approachable for newly independent readers. Lexile: 510L/ Fountas & Pinnell: L
Real Pigeons Fight Crime by Andrew McDonald, illustrated by Ben Wood
When a pigeon named Grandpouter, invites an enthusiastic pigeon named Rock to join his squad of crime-fighting pigeons, he has no idea of the silly hijinks that await him in the big city. Comical illustrations mixed with lovable illustrations and an exciting storyline make this one engaging series for kids.
*** Great for reluctant readers who love funny books.
Home is Where the Heart Is (Good Dog series) by Cam Higgins; illustrated by Ariel Landy, 2020
Dog lovers will adore reading about the boisterous puppy named Bo Davis and his adventures with his farmyard friends. With large font and cute black and white illustrations, this is a very accessible chapter book for new readers. Lexile: 640 / Fountas & Pinnell: L
Dory Fantasmagory by Abby Hanlon, 2015
As an exuberant little sister with a wild imagination, Dory is often ignored by her two older siblings. The lively text and illustrations follow Dory through her many comical antics attempting to get the attention of her family. Lexile 650
Mercy Watson series by Kate DiCamillo; illustrated by Chris Van Dusen
Kate DiCamillo and Chris Van Dusen have made quite a name for themselves in the world of children’s literature and their collaboration on the Mercy Watson series is truly outstanding. I have yet to meet someone who doesn’t love this charismatic porcine. The irresistible illustrations immediately draw the reader in and the engaging text is such a joy to read. Lexile: 450L/ Fountas & Pinnell: L
Rise of the Earth Dragon (Dragons Masters series) by Tracey West; illustrated by Graham Howells
Filled with an adventurous story line starring a group of diverse children who are charged with connecting with and training dangerous dragons with special talents, this is a go-to for reluctant readers. Black and white pictures are paired with large print making this early chapter book series appear less intimidating to young readers. Lexile: 510L
Check out more of our favorite TRANSITIONAL CHAPTER BOOKS HERE.
LONGER CHAPTER BOOKS FOR RISING SECOND GRADERS
These books are a wonderful next step for children who are beginning to move beyond transitional chapter books. While they still include a few illustrations and approachable language, they feature longer stories, more developed plots, and greater reading stamina than early transitional readers. Perfect for rising second graders who are ready for richer adventures, deeper character development, and books that feel more like “big kid” chapter books while still remaining fun and accessible.
Dinosaurs Before Dark (The Magic Tree House series) by Mary Pope Osbourne; illustrated by Sal Murdocca
When a mysterious tree house appears in Jack and Annie’s backyard, they can’t resist exploring it. They quickly learn the tree house is a time machine that transports them back to the age of the dinosaurs.
Full of adventure, this exciting series transports readers through time as they follow siblings Jack and Annie through history. These attention-grabbing stories are perfect for a variety of ages.
The One and Only Stuey Lewis: stories from the second grade (Stuey Lewis series) by Jane Schoenberg; illustrated Cambria Evans
This funny and relatable early chapter book stars second grader Stuey Lewis as he navigates school, friendships, family, and everyday mishaps with humor and heart. Told through short stories, Stuey’s adventures feel authentic to young readers and capture the ups and downs of elementary school life in an engaging way.
This is a wonderful choice for second graders because the short chapters, playful illustrations, and relatable school experiences help build reading confidence while keeping kids laughing and eager to read more.
Lexile: 410L/ Fountas & Pinnell: M
The Great Pet Heist by Emily Ecton, illustrated by David Mottram, 2020
This hilarious and action-packed story is about a group of clever pets who team up to help their beloved owner save their apartment building from being sold. Filled with quirky characters, funny mishaps, and heartwarming teamwork, this adventure is sure to keep young readers entertained.
Lola Levine is Not Mean (series) by Monica Brown; illustrated by Angela Dominguez
Lola Levine is a bicultural second-grader who loves playing soccer, writing in her diary, and spending time with her family and best friend, Josh. When she accidentally hurts another classmate during a soccer game, she is teased for being mean. Luckily, Lola’s supportive family helps her through this tough time. With well-developed characters and a realistic school scenario, many children will be attracted to this engaging series. Fountas & Pinnell: M
Rabbit and Bear (series) by Julian Gough, illustrated by Jim Field
When kind hearted Bear wakes up from hibernation she is surprised to find a grumpy rabbit has eaten her food. Through some seriously funny dialogue and experiences, the two overcome their differences and become fast friends. With witty storytelling and charming illustrations by Jim Field, the book explores big themes like empathy and cooperation in a light, accessible way for young readers.
Azmina the Gold Glitter Dragon (Dragon Girls) by Maddy Mara, 2021
Azmina has just moved to her new house when she feels a sudden pull into the forest where she is transported to a magical land and transformed into a dragon. There, she meets two other girls who band together to save the enchanted land from an evil force. This fantastical friendship story is sure to find an audience with many! Lexile: 570
Goldie (Puppy Place series) by Ellen Miles
Animal lovers will adore this heartwarming series about a family who fosters puppies while they are waiting to be adopted.
In the first book, Goldie, Charles and Lizzie try to convince their parents to get a pet and the family agrees to try fostering to see if they are ready for pet ownership. Each subsequent book introduces readers to a new dog. These books really couldn’t be cuter! Lexile: 590L/ Fountas & Pinnell: M
EARLY GRAPHIC NOVELS
Graphic novels have grown in popularity for good reason! There are many benefits to reading them, and, best of all, they have the power to engage and excite children about reading.
With their short chapters and humorous storylines, the below graphic novels are perfect for enticing and entertaining newly independent readers between the ages of 5 and 8.
Narwhal and Jelly series by Ben Clanton
The cheerful Narwhal and no-nonsense Jelly Fish are two unlikely friends who could not be more adorable. Upon meeting, they each believe the other is imaginary and the comical hijinks continue from there. These delightful books use a graphic novel format with large panels and dialogue to draw the reader in. There are three short stories in each book that are full of humor that both adults and children will appreciate. As a bonus, there are fun facts about sea creatures in between each chapter. Lexile: 490L
Bug Scouts: Out in the Wild by Mike Lowery, 2022
Filled with wordplay and amusing illustrations, this new series featuring a group of endearing bugs working to collect their badges is tons of fun. With large font and short chapters, this one is perfect for reluctant readers to gain their confidence while falling in love with reading. We can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell by Melanie Watt, 2021
There is just something irresistible about this adorably anxious little squirrel and his outlandish preparations. Just as his name implies, Scaredy Squirrel is afraid of, well, everything. When he spots a nut just outside of his tree, he goes through great lengths to retrieve it with the upmost care and hilarious consequences. With its appealing artwork and silly situations, I was not surprised at all that my daughter absolutely loved this book.
Cranky Chicken by Katherine Battersby, 2021
This seriously silly story has been on repeat at our house. Both my 7 year-old daughter and 10 year-old son can’t get enough of the hilarious hijinks of Cranky Chicken! In the classic case of opposites attracting, a friendly outgoing worm befriends a very grumpy chicken. It is so downright entertaining to watch their friendship bloom over three comical chapters.
We are also enjoy the sequel Cranky Chicken: Party Animals.
Fitz and Cleo by Jonathon Stutzman; illustrated by Heather Fox, 2022
Our family has enjoyed everything that Jonathon Stutzman and Heather Fox have created and Fitz and Cleo is no exception. When sibling ghosts Fitz and Cleo discover a cat in their attic, hilarious hijinks ensue as they experience the trials and tribulations of owning a pet. The illustrations could not be cuter, while the text is laugh-out-loud funny!
Sir Ladybug by Corey R. Tabor, 2022
Once again, the two-time Geisel Award winning author and illustrator Corey R. Tabor works his magic with a new easy reader series filled with humor and heart. Sir Ladybug and his two loyal companions, a snail and a roly-poly bug, travel the countryside helping any insect in need. With plenty of amusing dialogue and themes of teamwork and resilience, there is a lot to enjoy about this new series!
The Cosmic Adventures of Astrid and Stella by Hello Lucky, 2022
Colorful illustrations match the cheerful feel of these two best friends who can do anything together! With their mantras of “We can do hard things” and “Progress not perfection,” these two quirky characters can take on the world and then some as they zoom around the universe experiencing one stellar adventure after another.
Stick and Stone Explore and More by Beth Ferry; illustrated by Kristen Cella, 2022
Based on the characters in the bestselling picture book Stick and Stone, the lovable friends return for two new adventures in this charming graphic novel. In the first story, the two best buddies become part of a nature scavenger hunt and search for ice cream with surprising results in the second. I especially enjoyed the added educational elements such as the Nature Girl A-Z Checklist for an outdoor scavenger hunt and three recipes for S’mores!
Find more of our favorite Graphic Novels for New Readers and Graphic Novels for 2nd and 3rd Graders
PICTURE BOOKS
Even when children have learned to read on their own, it is still important to read to them.
Reading aloud is not only a wonderful time to bond with your child, but it is an opportunity to share rich vocabulary, model fluency, and introduce books that open their eyes and imaginations to new worlds and books that reflect their own reality.
Touch the Sky by Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic, illustrated by Chris Park, 2024
(Ages 4 and up)
It’s difficult to recognize that some things may come easy for some people, but not others. Vern yearns to soar through the air on the swing, but doesn’t know how to pump his legs. When Gretchen takes the time to help him, he gets the extra push he needs to succeed. This is a terrific story in empathy and overcoming challenges.
The Book That Almost Rhymed by Omar Abed, illustrated by Hatem Aly, 2024
(Ages 4 and up)
With its clever storyline featuring sibling rivalry turned cute collaboration, this is without a doubt one of my favorite books of the year so far! When a young boy tries to share the rhyming story he wrote, his sister interrupts with her own comical edits. It is almost impossible not to giggle while reading this humorous book as the rhythmic text is interrupted with unexpected twists in the story. The best part is how it all comes together in a heartfelt ending.
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Diary of a Fly by Doreen Cronin; illustrated by Harry Bliss, 2007
Using a diary format, a fly captures her everyday adventures starting school, spending time with friends, and learning life lessons. Sprinkled with puns and fun facts about flies, this charming book is a real winner. I also highly recommend Diary of a Worm and Diary of a Spider.
The Fantastic Bureau of Imagination by Brad Montague, illustrated by Brand and Kristi Montague, 2023
(Ages 4 and up)
Readers are introduced to Sparky, a very special creature called a figment who delivers mail for the Fantastic Bureau of Imagination. While Sparky writes many poems, he is too nervous to share his words with the world. When one of the departments, the cave of untold stories, is on the verge of collapsing, however, Sparky must overcome his fear. He bravely writes a poem pleading with humans to share their stories to save the Bureau.
Filled with tons of engaging details, this entertaining story is a perfect way for inspiring children to access their imaginations to create. The end papers even invite children to make their own Fantastic Bureau of Imagination Badge and accept their mission to dream and do great things.
A Normal Pig by K-Fai Steele, 2019
Pip feels like a normal pig until a new pig comes to school and makes her question the things she likes. Her observant mother notices something is wrong and takes Pip to the city where she discovers the splendor of diversity. Upon returning to school, Pip has gained a new perspective and confidence to embrace the things she enjoys.
This brilliant story takes a realistic scenario and helps reinforce in children the importance of celebrating differences and individuality. This is one that is sure to spark several important discussions about anti-bullying.
Harlem Grown by Tony Hillery; illustrated by Jessie Hartland, 2020
Harlem Grown is the inspirational true story of how Tony Hillery and a group of students transformed an empty lot in Harlem into a gorgeous garden.
Tony Hillery wasn’t a gardener, but simply a man who saw a problem and did everything he could to solve it. Not only did Tony help make his neighborhood a more beautiful place, the plants thrived and provided fresh, healthy food for the students who tended to the garden. The engaging artwork combined with the concise, powerful text makes this a truly standout read aloud. The story is enhanced by a note from Tony that provides more details about the Harlem Grown organization and gives tips on how to start a garden anywhere.
On Account of the Gum by Adam Rex, 2020
(Ages 5 and up)
When a child wakes up with gum in their hair, family members offer up comical solutions for dislodging it that end with disastrous results. With each turn of the page, the story gets funnier and funnier ending with a sidesplitting punch line that makes our family giggle no matter how many times we’ve read this story. I continue to be in awe of Adam Rex’s clever, quirky storytelling and could not love his latest creative tale more.
The Paper Kingdom by Helena Ku Rhee; illustrated by Pascal Campion, 2020
(Ages 5 and up)
With its beautiful illustrations, captivating story that is full of imagination, and memorable characters who demonstrate how to make the best of a difficult situation, there is a lot to love about The Paper Kingdom.
When their babysitter cancels, two night-janitors bring their son to the office they clean and regale him with creative tales of the people who work there. This magical book takes what could be a dull event and transforms it into an enchanting evening with an uplifting ending. Our entire family loves this exceptional book and it sparked a meaningful conversation about different types of jobs.
Ocean! Waves for All by Stacy McAnulty; illustrated by David Litchfield, 2020
(Ages 5 and up)
A personified ocean greets readers and shares many fun facts including how the sea is home to the biggest mammal in the world and the longest mountain range. With engaging artwork and fascinating details sprinkled in, this is an entertaining and educational story. We also love the other books in the Our Universe series.
Bunny’s Book Club by Annie Silvestro; illustrated by Tatjana Mai-Wyss, 2017
(Ages 4 and up)
Bunny loves listening to storytimes held outside the library, but when the air turns cool and storytimes are moved indoors, Bunny must come up with a plan! This quiet celebration of books and reading could not be more charming!
Fatima’s Great Outdoors by Ambreen Tariq; illustrated by Stevie Lewis, 2021
(Ages 5 and up)
After a rough week at school, Fatima is excited to venture into the woods on her very first camping trip with her family. Here she finds her element where she regains her confidence. This sweet coming-of-age story effortlessly weaves in components of Indian culture while celebrating family. Kids will be clamoring to go on their own camping trips after reading this sweet story!
Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist by Jess Keating; illustrated by Marta Alvarez Miguens, 2017
(Ages 5 and up)
My science-oriented kids love this interesting story about a determined female scientist who overcame criticism to become one of the leading zoologists to study sharks. This colorful picture book biography introduces children to Eugenie Clark, who discovered new species of fish, published several books on sharks, and was the first to train sharks proving their intelligence. A “Shark Bite” section in the back educates readers with additional facts about sharks while a timeline shares highlights of Eugenie’s impressive life.
For more book suggestions, check out the below lists.
