10+ Best Ninja Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that will keep your little adventurer hooked? Look no further than our roundup of ninja books for 8-year-olds! These tales are packed with action, mystery, and, of course, stealthy ninjas. Whether your child dreams of shadowy quests or heroic battles, these books are sure to capture their imagination. Keep reading to discover our favorite ninja books for 8-year-olds, each one guaranteed to provide hours of thrilling adventure!

Fun Ninja Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Ninja! by Arree Chung
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: This lively book follows a young boy with a big imagination who takes on the night with his ninja skills. He encounters various 'missions' which he tackles with stealth and great courage.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with action and humor, perfect for keeping young readers engaged and entertained. It also encourages imagination and active play.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and those who love playful, imaginative stories.

• The Three Ninja Pigs by Corey Rosen Schwartz, illustrated by Dan Santat
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fractured Fairy Tales, Humor
  • Synopsis: In this twist on the classic "Three Little Pigs" tale, the pig siblings take up martial arts to prepare for the big bad wolf. Each pig learns a different form of martial arts, showcasing their unique strengths.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and rhythmic read that teaches about perseverance and the importance of preparation. The martial arts theme adds a fresh, energetic twist to a familiar story.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy classic stories with a modern and humorous twist.

• Ninja Red Riding Hood by Corey Rosen Schwartz, illustrated by Dan Santat
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fractured Fairy Tales, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book continues with the ninja theme as Red Riding Hood trains in the art of ninjutsu to face off against a tricky wolf. She must use her newly acquired skills to save herself and her grandmother.
  • Why we recommend this book: It empowers young readers by showing them how determination and self-reliance can overcome challenges. The engaging, fast-paced narrative makes it a delightful read.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love empowered heroines and action-packed stories.

• Wink: The Ninja Who Wanted to be Noticed by J.C. Phillipps
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: Wink is a young ninja who struggles because he wants to be noticed, unlike his ninja peers who aim to blend in. His journey is filled with funny and heartwarming moments as he tries to find a way to stand out.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches the importance of embracing one's uniqueness and finding one's path, even if it goes against the grain. The story is both humorous and touching.
  • Perfect for: Children who feel different and are learning to embrace their individuality.

• Nighttime Ninja by Barbara DaCosta, illustrated by Ed Young
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Late at night, a young ninja embarks on a secret mission. The book uses minimal text and evocative illustrations to create a suspenseful atmosphere as the ninja's true mission is revealed.
  • Why we recommend this book: The beautiful, award-winning illustrations and the mysterious storyline captivate young readers, encouraging imagination and a love for storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy mystery, suspense, and beautiful artwork.

Educational Ninja Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Ninja Boy's Secret by Tina Schneider
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Adventure, Emotional Learning
  • Synopsis: The story follows a young boy named Max who learns the ancient art of ninjutsu, discovering not just physical skills but also important life lessons about patience, respect, and self-discipline.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional regulation, patience, respect for others, self-discipline
  • Why we recommend this book: It cleverly integrates important emotional lessons within an exciting narrative, making it both educational and fun.
  • Perfect for: Children interested in martial arts and personal growth.

• The Ninja Club Sleepover by Laura Gehl, illustrated by MacKenzie Haley
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Friendship, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Willa, the only girl in her group of friends who doesn’t know ninja moves, feels left out during a ninja-themed sleepover. Throughout the night, she discovers her own unique skills are just as valuable.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social skills, self-esteem, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes the value of self-acceptance and recognizing one’s unique strengths in a group setting.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are learning about friendship and self-worth.

• Ninja Camp by Sue Fliess, illustrated by Jen Taylor
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Adventure, Teamwork
  • Synopsis: Join a group of young ninjas at a special camp as they learn to work together and use their skills to overcome challenges and solve puzzles.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, strategic thinking, physical coordination
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun-filled adventure that teaches the importance of working together and helps build problem-solving skills.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy action and collaborative challenges.

• My Grandma's a Ninja by Todd Tarpley, illustrated by Danny Chatzikonstantinou
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Humor, Family
  • Synopsis: Ethan's grandma is not like the other grandmas. When she shows up to his soccer game dressed as a ninja and starts using her ninja moves, hilarity ensues.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Family bonding, creativity, humor
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a humorous take on family relationships and celebrates the uniqueness of every family member.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy funny stories and those who appreciate unconventional family tales.

• The Ninja Grandmaster by Chris Bradford
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Adventure, Historical
  • Synopsis: Set in ancient Japan, this tale follows Hana, a young ninja-in-training, who must use her skills to protect her family and village from rival clans.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, strategic thinking, cultural awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thrilling historical adventure that also educates about Japanese culture and the historical context of ninjas.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and adventure seekers.

Challenging Ninja Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Secrets of the Ninja by Sean McDaniel
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Historical, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This engaging story transports readers to feudal Japan where Kenji, a young apprentice, learns the secretive and dangerous skills of ninjas while uncovering a plot that threatens his village.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative incorporates historical elements and complex plot twists that require higher-level comprehension skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping read that combines action with a rich historical backdrop, providing both entertainment and educational value.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers who love history and mystery.

• The Way of the Warrior Kid: From Wimpy to Warrior the Navy SEAL Way by Jocko Willink, illustrated by Jon Bozak
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-improvement, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Marc, a young boy who struggles at school and with self-confidence, learns life lessons and ninja skills from his Navy SEAL uncle, transforming him from a timid kid to a confident warrior.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces concepts of self-discipline, resilience, and physical fitness, which are advanced themes for this age group.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book motivates readers to tackle their own challenges and teaches valuable life skills through an exciting narrative.
  • Perfect for: Kids who need a boost in confidence and those interested in martial arts and self-improvement.

• Ninja Boy Goes to School by N.D. Wilson, illustrated by Forrest Dickison
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Adventure, School Life
  • Synopsis: A young boy with ninja skills uses his abilities at school to navigate the challenges of everyday life and to stand up to bullies in a unique and empowering way.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book uses a sophisticated narrative structure and vocabulary that go beyond typical children’s books.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and clever story that teaches problem-solving and the importance of using one’s unique talents.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy school stories and those looking for ways to handle bullying creatively.

• Young Samurai: The Way of the Warrior by Chris Bradford
  • Genre(s): Young Adult Fiction, Historical, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Shipwrecked on the shores of Japan, young Jack Fletcher is rescued by a master swordsman and begins his training as a samurai, facing many dangers and challenges along the way.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book deals with complex themes such as honor, loyalty, and survival, and includes detailed descriptions of Japanese culture and martial arts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a thrilling adventure and a deep dive into the disciplined life of samurais, which can inspire discipline and respect for tradition.
  • Perfect for: Older children and pre-teens interested in martial arts and historical adventures.

• Ninja Detective: The Case of the Time-Capsule Bandit by Octavia Spencer
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Randi Rhodes, a ninja detective, uses her intellect and martial arts skills to solve the mystery of a missing time capsule in her small town, uncovering deeper secrets along the way.
  • Why this book is challenging: The mystery is intricate and the clues are subtle, requiring readers to think critically and pay close attention to detail.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating mystery that encourages analytical thinking and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and fans of mystery and martial arts.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the exciting world of ninja books with your 8-year-old, you'll want to make sure they not only enjoy the stories but also pick up some great reading habits along the way. Here are some fun and effective exercises to try out:

• Create a Ninja Reading Corner
  • What it is: Set up a special, cozy spot dedicated to reading ninja books.
  • How it helps: Makes reading time special and something to look forward to.
  • Tips: Let your child help decorate the space with ninja posters or toys to make it feel personalized.

• Ninja Reading Challenge
  • What it is: Set a fun challenge with a set number of books to read each month.
  • How it helps: Encourages regular reading and goal setting.
  • Tips: Offer a small reward like extra playtime or a special treat for every challenge completed.

• Act Out the Story
  • What it is: Encourage your child to act out their favorite scenes from the ninja books.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and recall.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes to make the activity more engaging and fun.

• Reading Buddy System
  • What it is: Pair your child with a friend or a sibling to read together.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a social activity and can improve communication skills.
  • Tips: They can take turns reading aloud to each other to build confidence and fluency.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Have your child draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Boosts imagination and helps in visualizing the text.
  • Tips: Provide colorful markers, crayons, or paints to make the drawing session exciting.

• Discuss the Ninja Code
  • What it is: After reading, discuss the moral lessons or the 'ninja code' from the story.
  • How it helps: Enhances critical thinking and understanding of the themes.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions to encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story.

These exercises are not just about reading; they're about making reading an adventure that your child looks forward to every day. Give them a try and watch your little ninja become not only a better reader but also a lover of books!