10+ Best Chapter Books for 9-Year-Old Girls w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect chapter books for 9-year-old girls? Whether you're looking to inspire a young reader or find a gift that keeps on giving, you've come to the right place. From thrilling adventures to heartwarming tales, our curated lists cater to all interests. Keep reading to discover our top picks of chapter books that are sure to captivate and engage every young girl's imagination.

Fun Chapter Books for 9-Year-Old Girls

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: This story follows Matilda, a brilliant and sensitive child unappreciated by her dim-witted family. When Matilda discovers she has the power of telekinesis, she begins to defend her friends from their tyrannical headmistress.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the joy of reading and the power of education, showing how a young girl uses her intelligence and strength to overcome obstacles.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories of triumph and magical adventures.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classics
  • Synopsis: This touching novel tells the story of a friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte crafts clever plans to save his life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that teaches lessons about friendship, love, and the cycle of life, resonating with young readers on multiple levels.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy animal stories and learning about the bonds of friendship.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a sour-faced and spoiled child, transforms when she discovers a neglected garden after moving to her uncle's remote country estate. As she revitalizes the garden, she also brings new life to her sickly cousin and herself.
  • Why we recommend this book: It illustrates the healing power of nature and the changes that come with nurturing something. It's also a story of personal growth and transformation.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about discovery and the healing powers of nature.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is accidentally sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert at Green Gables. Her vibrant personality brightly changes the lives of everyone around her.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's full of humor and heart, showcasing the importance of imagination and the impact one person can have on a community.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love spirited characters and stories about finding one's place in the world.

• Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren, illustrated by Lauren Child
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: Pippi Longstocking is an eccentric, super-strong girl who lives alone with her horse and her monkey. Her outrageous antics and fearless spirit lead to wild adventures and hilarious situations.
  • Why we recommend this book: Pippi's independence and unorthodox approaches to challenges make her a delightful role model for young readers, encouraging them to think creatively and assertively.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy laughter-filled adventures and characters who defy conventions.

Educational Chapter Books for 9-Year-Old Girls

• The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: In 1899 Texas, Calpurnia Tate is a curious 11-year-old girl navigating the pressures of a society that expects her to focus on household duties. Instead, she develops a close bond with her scientific grandfather and explores the natural world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, historical context, gender roles
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully combines historical context with a spirited protagonist's exploration of science and self-discovery.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and history, and those who enjoy stories about breaking societal norms.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, illustrated by Carson Ellis
  • 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.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, teamwork, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an engaging adventure that challenges the mind and emphasizes the value of intelligence, bravery, and teamwork.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love puzzles, mysteries, and working together with others to solve challenges.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magic Realism
  • Synopsis: A story about a young girl named Luna, who is accidentally enmagicked as a baby and raised by a witch. As Luna grows, her magic begins to emerge, with dangerous consequences.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of themes like sacrifice and the complexity of human nature, development of empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a rich narrative filled with magic and complexity, exploring deep themes like love and power.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy magical stories with strong, complex characters and rich, underlying themes.

• The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Pérez
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Malú O'Neill-Morales, who loves rock music and creating zines, navigates starting a new school where she clashes with the queen bee and struggles with her identity.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural identity, creative expression, interpersonal relationships
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a vibrant story about embracing who you are and finding your voice in a new environment.
  • Perfect for: Young girls who are exploring their own identity and those who appreciate music and arts as forms of expression.

• The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: During WWII, Ada, a young girl born with a clubfoot, escapes her abusive mother's confinement when she and her brother are sent to the countryside as evacuees. There, Ada learns to ride a pony, read, and starts to heal from her traumatic past.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, resilience, self-worth
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a poignant, uplifting story that highlights resilience and the transformative power of kindness.
  • Perfect for: Readers who like historical narratives and stories of personal growth and triumph over adversity.

Challenging Chapter Books for 9-Year-Old Girls

• The Wolves of Willoughby Chase by Joan Aiken
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Set in an alternative 19th-century England overrun by wolves, the story follows cousins Bonnie and Sylvia as they navigate through a series of misadventures after their parents leave them with a cruel governess, Miss Slighcarp.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book features complex plot twists and rich, descriptive language that require advanced reading skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines suspense and adventure, encouraging readers to solve problems alongside the protagonists.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy thrilling tales with strong, resourceful female characters.

• The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This story follows twelve-year-old September as she is whisked away to Fairyland where she encounters witches, enchanted creatures, and a quest that could change the fate of this magical world.
  • Why this book is challenging: It uses elaborate language and literary allusions that are intellectually stimulating and offer a rich reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a whimsical, beautifully written tale that sparks imagination and introduces readers to sophisticated writing.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love diving into intricate, magical worlds and enjoy lush storytelling.

• When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: As sixth-grader Miranda starts receiving mysterious notes that predict the future, she must unravel the clues around her to prevent a tragic death.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure is complex with time travel elements and interwoven storylines that challenge the reader’s perception and reasoning.
  • Why we recommend this book: It cleverly blends elements of mystery and science fiction, providing a compelling, thought-provoking read.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy puzzles and stories that make them think critically about time and space.

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe embark on a journey through space and time to rescue their father from the evil forces that hold him prisoner on another planet.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes like good versus evil and the power of love, woven through advanced scientific concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: This classic novel encourages exploration of deep philosophical questions and scientific ideas, wrapped in an engaging narrative.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and fantasy, and those who appreciate stories about family and resilience.

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This story tells of Despereaux Tilling, a brave mouse in love with music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It follows his adventures as he navigates a world of rats and darkness to save the princess.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative’s elegant, lyrical prose and its themes of courage, light versus darkness, and forgiveness provide a rich reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming adventure that celebrates the virtues of bravery and compassion, encouraging readers to be true to themselves.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy fairy tales with deep moral lessons and enchanting characters.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 9-year-old girl develop strong reading habits through chapter books, you've come to the right place! Below, I've put together some engaging exercises that are not only fun but also incredibly beneficial for building a lifelong love of reading. Let's dive in!

• Set a Daily Reading Time
  • What it is: Dedicate a specific time each day for reading.
  • How it helps: Creates a routine, making reading a regular part of the day.
  • Tips: Choose a quiet time when your child is usually relaxed, such as before bed or right after school.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special, comfortable space in your home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a special and enjoyable experience.
  • Tips: Let your child help decorate the space with pillows, blankets, and favorite stuffed animals.

• Book Club for Two
  • What it is: Start a mini book club where you and your child read the same book.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and provides a bonding opportunity.
  • Tips: Schedule regular discussions to talk about what you're reading and share thoughts.

• Reading Challenge with Rewards
  • What it is: Set up a reading challenge with a set number of books to read each month.
  • How it helps: Encourages reading and gives a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Offer small rewards like extra playtime or a small toy upon completion of the challenge.

• Map the Story
  • What it is: Create a visual map of the story's events and characters.
  • How it helps: Helps with understanding and remembering the plot and the relationships between characters.
  • Tips: Use a large piece of paper and colored pens or markers to make it more engaging.

• Character Diary Entries
  • What it is: Write diary entries from the perspective of a character in the book.
  • How it helps: Develops empathy and deeper understanding of the characters.
  • Tips: Encourage creativity by imagining different scenarios or feelings the character might have.

• Read Aloud Sessions
  • What it is: Spend time reading aloud from a chapter book.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and listening skills.
  • Tips: Take turns reading to each other to make it more interactive.

These exercises are designed to make reading fun and formative. By integrating these activities into your child's daily routine, you'll not only enhance her reading skills but also instill a deep love for books that will last a lifetime. Happy reading!