10+ Best Children's Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for your eight-year-old? Finding age-appropriate and engaging children's books for 8-year-olds can be a delightful yet daunting task. Whether you're looking to spark their imagination or encourage their reading habits, we've got you covered. Keep reading as we explore a variety of children's books for 8-year-olds that are sure to captivate and educate young minds. Let's dive into the world of pages and adventures that await!

Fun Children's Books for 8-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 wise spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte crafts clever messages in her web to save her friend.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that teaches themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, all wrapped in gentle humor and beautiful prose.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who appreciate stories about friendship and survival.

• 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, is kind and charming. Together, they embark on an adventure to stop the other giants from eating children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sparks imagination with its creative language and whimsical plot while teaching important lessons about kindness and courage.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous kids who enjoy stories filled with humor and fantastical elements.

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: The book is a journal of Greg Heffley as he navigates his way through middle school, detailing his attempts to fit in and become popular.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its relatable storyline and hilarious illustrations make it an engaging read that encourages reluctant readers to enjoy book time.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love a good laugh and those who may see a bit of themselves in the awkward years of middle school.

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Matilda is a brilliant and sensitive child unappreciated by her crude family. She develops telekinetic powers, which she uses to overcome obstacles and stand up against her oppressive school principal, Miss Trunchbull.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates intelligence and creativity, empowering readers to believe in their own abilities to overcome challenges.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who feel misunderstood and dream of doing great things.

• Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is accused of stealing Zeus's lightning bolt. He must embark on a quest to find the real thief and prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling action with Greek mythology, making it an exciting and educational read that keeps pages turning.
  • Perfect for: Fans of adventure and mythology, and kids who enjoy fast-paced, action-packed stories.

Educational Children's Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Fairy Tale
  • Synopsis: This story tells the tale of Despereaux Tilling, a small mouse with oversized ears, who loves music and reading. Despereaux embarks on a heroic adventure to rescue a beautiful human princess from the rats.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, empathy, courage, and understanding of narrative structures
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written fable that combines adventure with themes of bravery and forgiveness.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love fairy tales and stories of unlikely heroes.

• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Patricia Castelao
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: Inspired by true events, this novel follows Ivan, a captive gorilla who lives in a shopping mall, and his journey to find a better life for himself and his friends.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, animal welfare awareness, creative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a touching perspective on friendship and the importance of a safe environment for animals.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in animal rights.

• Frindle by Andrew Clements, illustrated by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Fifth-grader Nick Allen invents a new word, "frindle," for 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 its evolution
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages creativity and shows the power of words and ideas.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are inventive, curious about words, and those who enjoy a good school story.

• The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Edward Tulane, a porcelain rabbit, is passed from owner to owner, experiencing love and loss, and learning important life lessons along the way.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, resilience, understanding of diverse human emotions
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a poignant story that explores deep themes of love, loss, and redemption through the eyes of a toy rabbit.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy emotional journeys and meaningful stories.

• Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Minli, an adventurous girl from a poor village, sets out on a quest to find the Old Man of the Moon to ask how she can change her family's fortune.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, mythology, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It blends Chinese folklore with an exciting adventure, providing both entertainment and educational value.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers and readers interested in other cultures and folklore.

Challenging Children's Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • 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: It features complex puzzles and moral dilemmas that require advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling intellectual adventure that encourages creativity and teamwork.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and puzzle enthusiasts who love a good challenge.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Bored young Milo receives a magic 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 rich with wordplay, puns, and philosophical ideas that challenge young readers to think about the world in new ways.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor and adventure, making complex ideas about language and mathematics accessible and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy clever humor and imaginative journeys.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a previously unloved and spoiled child, discovers a neglected garden and, along with her cousin Colin, brings it back to life as they themselves bloom.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative style and historical setting require comprehension of more formal English and themes of loss and healing.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a timeless story of transformation and the healing power of nature.
  • Perfect for: Readers who find joy in stories of renewal and the beauty of nature.

• The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fantasy, Philosophical
  • Synopsis: This poetic tale tells the story of a young prince who travels the universe gaining wisdom. Through his journey, he meets a stranded pilot in the desert, sharing profound insights on life and human nature.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores deep philosophical questions and abstract concepts suited for advanced readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: Offers profound observations about life and love that resonate with readers of all ages.
  • Perfect for: Deep thinkers and young philosophers, as well as anyone who appreciates beautiful storytelling.

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin travel through space and time to save their father from evil forces threatening the universe.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex scientific and mathematical concepts, including tesseracts and space-time travel.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating adventure that champions the power of love and courage.
  • Perfect for: Sci-fi fans and young readers interested in science and exploration.

• The Sword in the Tree by Clyde Robert Bulla, illustrated by Bruce Bowles
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In the days of King Arthur, young Shan hides in the forest after his castle is seized. He vows to reclaim his home and family honor, embarking on a quest that leads him to the legendary sword in the stone.
  • Why this book is challenging: The historical setting and language enhance the complexity of the narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an engaging introduction to Arthurian legends and themes of bravery and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Young history buffs and fans of medieval adventures.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 8-year-old develop some great reading habits, you've come to the right place. Here are some fun and effective exercises that can make reading a more engaging and enriching experience for them. Let's dive in!

• Set a Daily Reading Time
  • What it is: Designate a specific time each day dedicated solely to 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, perhaps after dinner or right before bed.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Set up a special corner in your home that's comfortable and well-lit for reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages reading by providing a cozy, inviting space dedicated to that purpose.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions, posters, or toys.

• Book Club with Friends
  • What it is: Organize a weekly book club where your child and their friends discuss a book they've all read.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and gives your child an opportunity to share thoughts and listen to others.
  • Tips: Keep the group small and manage the discussions so every child gets a chance to speak.

• Read Aloud Together
  • What it is: Spend time reading a book aloud with your child.
  • How it helps: Improves listening skills and makes reading a shared, social activity.
  • Tips: Use different voices for different characters to make the reading more entertaining.

• Challenge with a Book List
  • What it is: Create a list of books for your child to read over a period, like a summer reading list.
  • How it helps: Encourages a sense of accomplishment and introduces a variety of literature.
  • Tips: Include a mix of genres and authors to broaden their exposure.

• Use Reading Apps
  • What it is: Integrate technology by using educational apps focused on reading.
  • How it helps: Makes reading interactive and fun, appealing to tech-savvy kids.
  • Tips: Choose apps that are age-appropriate and have positive reviews from educators and parents.

• Visit the Library Regularly
  • What it is: Schedule regular visits to the local library to check out books.
  • How it helps: Provides access to a wide range of books and fosters a love for libraries.
  • Tips: Participate in library events and activities to make each visit exciting.

Incorporating these exercises into your child's routine can significantly enhance their reading skills and make the process enjoyable. Remember, the goal is to foster a lifelong love of reading, so keep the activities light, fun, and pressure-free. Happy reading!