Habitual reading at the 4th-grade level helps your kids develop a wonderful imagination and a keen sense of creativity. The acquisition of this important life skill is certainly life-changing and will prompt your learners to ask questions as they discover more about the world around them. Whether it’s fiction or nonfiction, our list of engaging 4th-grade books will help you turn any reluctant reader into an eager bookworm in no time!
1. The Girl Who Drank the Moon
This whimsical tale is sure to be a top pick for your young minds! They’ll read about Xan, guardian of the forest and deliverer of babies, as she decides to raise a magical baby of her own. Encourage them to pick up this intriguing book as they discover the special power that baby Luna holds.
2. The Chocolate Touch
In this sweet treat of a story, your learners will meet John – a special young boy who has the magical ability to turn everything his lips touch into chocolate! It’s perfect for your 4th graders and provides a peculiar twist on the classic legend of King Midas.
3. Fantastic Mr. Fox
Fantastic Mr. Fox Strikes again in this suspenseful novel! Invite your students to read about Mr. Fox’s antics as he devises a sneaky plan of escape after he’s captured for stealing from the farms surrounding his burrow.
4. The World According to Humphrey
Humphrey the hamster isn’t your ordinary classroom pet! Engage your pupils in this hilarious book series as they discover how Humphrey learns to read, write, and play tricks on his human classmates.
5. The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail
Take your readers on an exhilarating journey with this mysterious story. They’ll join this adorable mouse on a mission to seek out Queen Victoria as he finds out more about his past and who he really is.
6. The Bookwanderers
In this book, your learners will explore the magic wonders of an unbound world! They’ll be transported into Tilly’s mystical world as she embarks on epic adventures with her unique ability to bookwander.
7. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume
Fudge is up to no good and his older brother, Peter, has finally had enough! Engage your kids in this fun-filled read as Peter tries to catch Fudge in the middle of an act to expose his mischievous ways.
8. The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy
Immerse your students in some summertime magic with The Penderwicks! The sisters embark on a quest of exploration around the stunning Arundel estate to discover all it has to offer – who knows what secrets they’ll stumble upon?
9. The First Rule of Punk
Teach your class about the importance of standing up for themselves in this Heartwarming tale. Malú fights for the right to express herself in this coming-of-age story and she certainly isn’t afraid to stand out from the crowd!
10. Where the Mountain Meets the Moon
Inspired by her father’s folk tales, young Minli departs from her valley home on an epic journey of discovery. Your readers will be engrossed in this extraordinary plot as she encounters diverse characters and magical creatures.
11. James and the Giant Peach
Here’s another beloved story from Roald Dahl that’s sure to feed your learners’ imaginations. They’ll read about James, who’s about to get the shock of his life and experience some peculiar encounters with strange characters in this quirky tale.
12. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
Journey to hidden lands as your kids engage with this adventurous tale of 4 siblings who unearth a secret world hidden inside an unsuspecting wardrobe. It’s a story that’s sure to captivate your learners’ curiosity as they read about these unforgettable characters.
13. Magic Tree House Boxed Set
The Magic Tree House box set contains a beautiful collection of 28 thrilling adventure books, filled with incredible tales set in diverse lands – making it a feast for your young readers’ creative energy.
14. Holes by Louis Sachar
In this intrepid tale, Stanley Yelnats finds himself wrongfully banished to a detention center. Encourage your learners to find out what happens next, as Stanley soon realizes that the head warden is searching for something and is determined to find it before the warden does.
15. The Invention of Hugo Cabret
Invite your pupils to unlock the undercover life of Hugo Cabret as he embarks on a spellbinding mystery, crossing paths with unlikely friends along the way.
16. Wish by Barbara O’Connor
Find the meaning of family and sacrifice housed within the spine of this heart-warming read. A young girl has made the same wish day after day since she was small, but is just waiting for the day it comes true!
17. Dog Diaries: A Middle School Story
Your students are in for a hilarious experience as they read about Rafe and his comical quest to train his sneaky dog, uniquely written from his pup’s perspective.
18. The Rhino in Right Field
Your students are in for a hilarious experience as they read about Rafe and his comical quest to train his sneaky dog, uniquely written from his pup’s perspective.
19. Caterpillar Summer
Engage your young readers in this gripping book about an amazing girl and her brother with special needs – as they embark on an unforgettable journey that leads to a life-changing summer together.
20. Here in the Real World
Engross your readers in this moving story about a boy named Ware and his new friend Jolene, who start bunking camp activities in order to build a fun-filled dream world of their own.
21. Matilda
Matilda is a remarkable girl who is tired of being bullied by her family and headmistress. Engage your class in this mystical story where Matilda discovers that she has magical powers – certain to help her find the courage she needs to stand up for herself.
22. Rocket to the Moon!
Your kids will travel to outer space, unveiling what goes into building a rocket in this historical fiction book based on a true story.
23. Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster
Treat your students to this masterpiece of literature as they follow a girl and her monster, who are city outcasts, adventuring through life together.
24. The Bridge Home
The Bridge Home will soon become your pupils’ favorite book! It’s a heartwarming tale that depicts the journey of 4 abandoned children in their quest to build a life and home for themselves.
25. When Stars Are Scattered
Expand your students’ ambit for reading by exposing them to life inside a Kenyan refugee camp. They’ll dive into a story of two inspirational brothers who lead the charge in this award-winning novel.
26. Some Places More Than Others
In this critically acclaimed book, your readers will unearth a lesson about discovering their roots and finding their place in the world. This isn’t as easy as it sounds as the main character, Amara, embarks on a journey of self-growth to learn to love her background.
27. All the Impossible Things
Your learners will cherish this compelling book, discovering the trials of a tender-hearted foster care girl who learns to navigate all the impossible challenges placed in her path.
28. Lemons by Melissa Savage
For a humorous and witty story, have your kids meet Lemonade Liberty Witt who tries to make the most of moving to a new town – but it won’t be as easy as it seems.
29. The Girl Who Rode the Wind
Lola is swept away to Siena for the Summer by her loving grandmother. With every page, your young readers will learn about the unbreakable bond that’s formed between a horse and its rider as Lola discovers more about her mysterious family history.
30. El Deafo by Cece Bell
In this touching read, your class will meet Cece, an inspiring character who doesn’t let her disability get her down. She soon discovers she has the power to hear her teacher anywhere in school and is hoping to use her newly acquired abilities to attract a good base of friends.
31. Emily Windsnap and the Monster from the Deep
Take your learners on an enchanting adventure in this thrilling novel, filled with stunning illustrations! Emily Windsnap is half-mermaid, half-human living in picturesque bliss. That is until she wakes a treacherous sea monster that’s been sleeping for hundreds of years.
32. The Ickabog
Invite your kids to accompany Bert and Daisy on their awesome adventure to discover the truth about a mysterious creature, named The Ickabog, that lives in a misty marshland.
33. Girl’s Best Friend
Get those sleuthing hats on as your readers dive into this Maggie Brooklyn mystery! Maggie is on the hunt for a neighborhood dog-napper. Will she be able to discover who it is before her very own pup is stolen?
34. Inside Out and Back Again
Inspired by the author’s childhood – your students will engage with this moving book based on the true account of a refugee family’s move from Vietnam to Alabama after The Vietnam War.
35. Fourth Grade Fairy
Have your readers meet Willow Doyle, a 4th-grade fairy who wants nothing more than to be normal. When she’s afforded the opportunity to attend her neighborhood middle school, will it be everything she’s dreamed of?
36. Boys Are Dogs
After learning that she can train her new puppy, Annabelle wonders if she can train her 6th-grade friends in the same way! Have your learners read this cheerful tale to find out if Annabelle succeeds in her mission.
37. Just Me. Morley
For inspirational tales that encourage perseverance, introduce your kids to the Morley Star Series. She’s a go-getter who does everything she can to help her family improve their financial situation. With various stories to choose from – your learners are sure to find one that’s perfect for them!
38. Who’s Afraid of Fourth Grade?
Katie Kazoo has dreamed of starting 4th grade, but after a couple of days she isn’t too sure if she’s such a fan of this new grade after all. In this relatable story – your very own 4th graders will join Katie as she encounters the pressure of new teachers, classes, and friends.
39. Surfside Girls: The Secret of Danger Point
Here’s a spooky adventure that your readers are sure to love. They’ll embark on a summertime adventure with Samantha and Jade as they discover an underwater cave – peppered with eerie characters.
40. Case Closed #1: Mystery in the Mansion
Have your students join Carlos as he takes on a mystery case that could save his mom’s career. Will he be a successful sleuth and solve the mystery in the mansion? Crack open this book to find out!
41. Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise
In this joyful novel, your readers will follow Coyote on her 3,600-mile drive back to Washington State, picking up a few strange characters along the way.
42. The Secret Zoo
Inquisitive adventurers soon discover that there is far more to their town’s zoo than what first meets the eye. Have your students flip through the pages of this exciting tale as they join the adventurers in exploring the mysterious world of the secret zoo and all it has to offer.
43. Selah’s Sweet Dream
In this inspiring read that’s all about courage, your learners will be introduced to Selah – a young girl who rescues a horse and sets out to achieve her dream of becoming a famed equestrian.
44. Becoming Brianna
If you’re looking for a relatable novel for your kids – have them read Becoming Brianna. It depicts a young girl’s journey through middle school as she faces all sorts of challenges leading up to her bat mitzvah.
45. It’s Alive: From Neurons and Narwhals to the Fungus Among Us
This captivating fact book will expose your 4th graders to new information relating to all things biology. They’ll find answers to the strangest and most interesting things with It’s Alive – a fun and factual illustrated book!
46. The Trumpet of the Swan
Here’s an endearing tale for your learners to enjoy. They’ll join Louis the swan in his quest to win over the affection of Serena where he even learns to play a brass trumpet in the hopes of attracting her attention.
47. Bridge to Terabithia
In this spell-binding novel, your kids will follow Jesse and Leslie, as they let their imaginations run wild to create their own magical kingdom known as Terabithia.
48. Mary Poppins
Mary Poppins is a rather unusual nanny, but is sure to become one of your readers’ favorite characters. Encourage them to engage with this whimsical tale as she arrives at number 17 Cherry Tree Lane to change the lives of the Banks children forever.
49. The Adventures of Robin Hood
This classic story is a must-read for your students. Introduce them to The Adventures of Robin Hood as he ventures through the forest with his champion band of misfit friends.
50. Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library
Invite your readers to Mr. Limoncello, a genius inventor and game maker! Kyle and his friends have to use clues to solve his complex puzzles to try and escape this newly built library.
51. There’s A Boy in the Girls’ Bathroom
Bradley Chalkers is the most hated kid in 5th grade. Engage your kids in this beloved book to see whether Bradley’s new school counselor can help him be better and create lasting friendships with his peers.
52. When You Trap a Tiger
Encourage your readers to get stuck into this mystical tale where Lily makes a deal with a tiger to help heal her sick grandmother. But she’ll have to be careful – as in the long run, deals with tigers aren’t always as simple as they may first seem!
53. Where the Red Fern Grows
This timeless classic takes your learners on a literary adventure. Billy’s esteemed hunting team encounters a trying tragedy in the town and must work together to courageously face the future.
54. Up the Creek!
This thrilling story is guaranteed to have your students hanging onto every word! Up the Creek is a tale of four friends who go canoeing up the creek only to be faced with the most exhilarating experience of their lives.
55. Journey to Zentobia
Invite your readers to journey with Maggie and Peter as they discover a rainbow portal to an alternative world, called Zentopia, where they’re entrusted with preserving its fate.
56. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky
Take your kids on an epic adventure with Tristan Strong. He’ll encounter the battle of his life in this epic adventure tale that’s all about trying to retrieve his best friend’s journal before it’s stolen.
57. The Island of Lost Horses
Immerse your learners in this extraordinary tale. It’s a thrilling read about two girls who make an unforgettable discovery on a remote island – in this real-life mystery that still remains to be solved!
58. The Baby-Sitters Club: Logan Likes Mary Anne!
Will Logan join Mary Anne and the gang as part of the Baby-Sitters Club or will Mary Anne and Logan become more than just friends? Encourage your students to find out as they read this fun-filled graphic novel.
59. Has Anyone Seen Jessica Jenkins?
You readers will love this fantasy tale by Liz Kessler. Jessica Jenkins suddenly discovers that she has the power to disappear and goes on to form a group with other super-powered kids in her class!
60. Born Curious: 20 Girls Who Grew Up to Be Awesome Scientists
Born Curious will inspire your young minds to dream big and be curious as it exposes them to the amazing biographies of 20 amazing female scientists.
61. Hannah Saves the World
Treat your pupils to this thrilling read as they’re introduced to Hannah, a detective scientist, who’s tasked with saving the world. Will she be able to figure out the solution in time to save everyone she loves?
62. Whatever After: Spill the Beans
Transport your learners to a fairytale universe as they read this hilarious take on the classic tale of Jack and the Beanstalk!
63. Wings of Fire: The Hive Queen
Take your kids on a compelling journey with Cricket the Dragon as he faces the challenging mission of revealing the Queen’s secret, whilst trying to remain undetected.
64. North of Nowhere
North of Nowhere will take your young readers on an epic quest as they read about Mia’s discoveries in uncovering more about the sudden disappearance of her beloved grandfather.
65. Never Girls: The Space Between
The Never Girls is the perfect tale for your 4th-grade readers. In this book, the never girls are faced with unanswered questions and the team must work together to navigate the space between worlds.
66. Earth: Our Planet in Space
Here’s an educational book that your science enthusiasts will love! Equip them with the tools to understand Earth in a cosmic sense. It’s filled with intriguing facts and visually stunning images that make it the perfect resource when you’re looking to pique your learners’ interest in our world.
67. The Unforgettable Logan Foster
Take your readers on a humorous detour with Logan Foster, as he learns the truth about his superhero parents. From viral stardom to public mishaps, this book has all the ups and downs that will leave your learners in stitches.
68. Mystery on Museum Mile
Your students are in for a wild ride with this mysterious tale. Journey along with Edmund Xavier Lonravotti as he solves this intricate case. It’s a perfect blend of mystery and adventure, and will have your kids connecting the dots with each turn of their page.
69. Fablehaven
Enter the fantastical world of Fablehaven! Your kids will encounter creatures of lore and mystery as they read about enchanting tales while being immersed in bravery and mystery.
70. The Witches by Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl serves up this quirky story where witches live among us! Your readers will cheer for the young hero as he faces seemingly insurmountable odds in a hidden world.
71. Gregor The Overlander
Encourage your kids to follow Gregor and Boots into an underground world teeming with extraordinary creatures. This epic escapade beneath New York’s bustling streets will turn your classroom into a paradise for brave explorers.
72. Dragon Pearl
Invite your young readers to journey with Min on a quest that blends the mythical with the intergalactic. It delivers a riveting blend of Korean folklore and outer-space quests that are guaranteed to have your learners hanging onto every word.
73. Towers Falling
For a poignant lesson in recent history, engage your pupils in reading Towers Falling. They’ll be taken on a heart-rending story with fifth-grader Deja Barnes as she faces a journey of discovery after the tragic events of 9/11.
74. Out of My Mind
In this compelling novel, your learners will venture into Melody’s world – where a brilliant mind is trapped in an uncooperative body. It’s a story that serves as an invaluable lesson on the value of empathy and determination.
75. The Mysterious Benedict Society
Looking for a book that’s all about codes and puzzles? In this book, four gifted kids embark on a world-altering journey as they participate in a series of mind-bending tests. Your kids will be able to try their hand at solving each intricate puzzle as they journey along with the characters in this thrilling story.
76. Mr. Popper’s Penguins
Mr. Popper’s life takes a turn towards the absurd when he receives a penguin! Perfect for animal lovers – your pupils are in for a treat with this cheerful tale.
77. The Lemonade War
For a sweet introduction to economics, have your students read The Lemonade War. They’ll immerse themselves in the monetary battle between two siblings that’s sure to quench their thirst for knowledge.
78. How to Steal a Dog
Here’s an eye-opening read for your kids that delves into the complexities of one’s life choices. As Georgina encounters homelessness and ethical dilemmas, she’s determined to improve her situation by any means. Encourage your readers to absorb every word to find out what Georgina will do next.
79. Nixie Ness, Cooking Star
Delight your readers with this scrumptious tale! They’ll follow along with Nixie Ness as she embarks on culinary escapades that blend friendship and flavors into an after-school recipe for success. It’s a heartwarming read that will have your learners reaching for their aprons.
80. The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street
Invite your pupils to take a trip with the Vanderbeekers as they go on a quest to convince their landlord to give them one more year of homely bliss. You can even weave this tale into lessons on community and kinship for a mesmerizing experience that your students will cherish for years to come.
Reading should be encouraged as much as possible in the 4th grade. Students who regularly engage with books at this level are going far in enhancing their potential for later success. Students at this age should be prompted to read in order to further their pre-existent knowledge of the world.
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