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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for your eager little reader? Look no further! Our curated list of Scholastic Books for 8-Year-Olds is packed with captivating stories that are just right for their age. Whether they’re into magical adventures or tales of everyday heroes, we’ve got something that will catch their eye and spark their imagination. Keep reading to discover our top picks of Scholastic Books for 8-Year-Olds that are sure to keep them turning the pages!

Fun Scholastic 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 clever spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte uses her web to write messages praising Wilbur, aiming to persuade the farmer to spare his life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life in a way that is accessible and touching for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers looking for a heartwarming story about friendship and sacrifice.

• The Magic School Bus Inside the Human Body by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Educational, Science, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Join Ms. Frizzle and her class as they take a fascinating trip inside the human body aboard the magical school bus to learn about human anatomy and physiology.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines fun adventures with educational content, making learning about the human body exciting and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who enjoy science and adventure-packed stories.

• Dog Man: A Tale of Two Kitties by Dav Pilkey
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Comedy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel features Dog Man, a hero who is part dog, part man, and all cop. In this installment, Dog Man faces off against a super smart cat named Petey, who is out to make the world a less safe place for dogs.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with humor and action, which are great for engaging reluctant readers and encouraging a love for reading.
  • Perfect for: Fans of superheroes, comics, and hilarious animal characters.

• The Bad Guys: Episode 1 by Aaron Blabey
  • Genre(s): Humor, Adventure, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: A group of notorious animal villains — including a wolf, a shark, a piranha, and a snake — attempt to become heroes by freeing dogs from the Maximum Security City Dog Pound.
  • Why we recommend this book: With its unique blend of humor and heart, this series shows that even the baddest guys can do good, making it both entertaining and uplifting.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love a good laugh and rooting for the underdog, or in this case, the 'bad guys.'

• Geronimo Stilton: Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye by Geronimo Stilton
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Geronimo Stilton, editor of "The Rodent's Gazette," is dragged along on a treasure hunt across the seas by his sister, Thea. Together, they search for the hidden treasure of the Emerald Eye.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces young readers to mystery and adventure through engaging storytelling and colorful illustrations, fostering a love for reading and exploration.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and mystery lovers who enjoy lively stories with lots of twists and turns.

Educational Scholastic Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Fly Guy Presents: Weather by Tedd Arnold
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational, Science
  • Synopsis: This book follows Fly Guy and Buzz as they explore the fascinating world of weather, learning all about how it affects our environment.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of meteorological concepts, reading comprehension, scientific curiosity
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses a fun and familiar character to introduce complex weather concepts in an engaging and accessible way.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and any kid curious about the reasons behind rain, snow, and sunshine.

• I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912 by Lauren Tarshis
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure, Survival
  • Synopsis: This gripping novel follows a young boy, George, who is aboard the Titanic during its fateful voyage. George experiences the historic disaster first-hand, learning lessons of bravery and resilience.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, emotional intelligence, survival skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines historical facts with heart-pounding fiction, making the past exciting and relatable for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Thrill-seekers and history buffs who love to dive into the past and explore real-life events.

• The 39 Clues: The Maze of Bones by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Puzzle-solving
  • Synopsis: Amy and Dan Cahill begin a global treasure hunt, facing challenges and uncovering secrets about their family's mysterious past.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, critical thinking, knowledge of geography and history
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fast-paced adventure that also educates, blending brain-teasing puzzles with exciting storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and adventurers who enjoy cracking codes and solving mysteries.

• The Magic School Bus and the Climate Challenge by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Educational, Science, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Ms. Frizzle takes her class on a high-flying journey to discover the causes and effects of global warming, and what kids can do to help fight climate change.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental science, awareness of climate issues, scientific observation
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles important environmental issues through an engaging and optimistic lens, encouraging proactive learning and action.
  • Perfect for: Eco-conscious young readers and future scientists dedicated to making a difference in their world.

• Who Would Win? Lion vs. Tiger by Jerry Pallotta, illustrated by Rob Bolster
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Animal Behavior
  • Synopsis: This book puts two mighty animals head-to-head in an imaginary battle and uses real scientific information to determine who would win.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Comparative analysis, understanding of animal characteristics and habitats
  • Why we recommend this book: It engages readers with fun, hypothetical scenarios while educating them on biology and the natural world.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young naturalists who are fascinated by wildlife and enjoy hypothetical "what if" scenarios.

Challenging Scholastic 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 enchanting tale follows Despereaux Tilling, a brave mouse in love with music, stories, and a princess named Pea. Despereaux is banished from his mouse community for being too different and embarks on a heroic adventure.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure is complex, featuring multiple perspectives and a sophisticated vocabulary that challenges young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written story that encourages bravery, compassion, and the importance of being true to oneself.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fairy tales with depth and a touch of whimsy.

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: Set in 1930s Paris, this novel tells the story of Hugo, an orphan who lives in the walls of a train station. He becomes wrapped up in a mystery involving his late father and an automaton.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel’s unique blend of text and intricate illustrations requires readers to interpret visual elements as part of the storytelling.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a captivating, cinematic experience that blends visual and textual storytelling in a way that captivates and engages.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and young readers who appreciate a mystery wrapped in a rich historical setting.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, 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: The puzzles and riddles are intricate and thought-provoking, requiring advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates intellectual curiosity and teamwork, while providing a thrilling, brain-teasing adventure.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle solvers and strategic thinkers who love a challenge and teamwork-based adventures.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magic, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In this magical story, a young girl named Luna is accidentally enmagicked as a baby and raised by a witch. As Luna grows, her magic begins to emerge with dangerous consequences.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex themes such as sacrifice, power, and the dual nature of human emotion, woven through a sophisticated narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thought-provoking and beautifully written fantasy that explores deep emotional and ethical questions.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy rich, imaginative worlds and stories that explore deeper philosophical questions.

• Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Told in two intertwining narratives, one in text and the other in illustrations, this story follows Ben and Rose as they both seek their place in the world and unravel their own mysterious histories.
  • Why this book is challenging: The dual narrative, part visual, part textual, requires readers to piece together two storylines that span different time periods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a visually stunning and emotionally gripping story that encourages empathy and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories that are visually engaging and emotionally moving.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 8-year-old build strong reading habits with Scholastic books, here are some fun and effective exercises to try out. These activities are designed to be engaging and beneficial, ensuring that reading becomes a joyful part of their daily routine.

• Create a Reading Corner
  • What it is: Set up a special, cozy spot dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages a regular reading routine by associating the space with comfort and enjoyment.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions, lights, or decorations.

• Book Bingo
  • What it is: Create a bingo card with different types of books or reading tasks.
  • How it helps: Makes reading diverse genres and books more fun and engaging.
  • Tips: Reward completing a row or full house with a small prize or extra storytime.

• Read and Draw
  • What it is: After reading, have your child draw a scene or character from the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and recall by translating words into visual imagery.
  • Tips: Share the drawings with family members to involve everyone in the reading journey.

• Story Predictions
  • What it is: Pause during reading to predict what might happen next in the story.
  • How it helps: Develops critical thinking and engagement with the storyline.
  • Tips: Discuss why they made those predictions, linking back to parts of the text.

• Reading Challenge Chart
  • What it is: Create a chart to track the number of books or pages read over a period.
  • How it helps: Motivates continuous reading and setting personal goals.
  • Tips: Offer a special reward for reaching reading milestones, like a new book or a trip to a favorite place.

• Character Role-Play
  • What it is: Act out scenes from the book with your child taking on the role of a favorite character.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding of character development and plot.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes to make the role-play more exciting and memorable.

• Reading Buddy System
  • What it is: Pair your child with a friend or sibling for shared reading sessions.
  • How it helps: Builds social skills and makes the reading experience more enjoyable.
  • Tips: Encourage discussions about the book to enhance comprehension and verbal skills.

Implementing these exercises can transform reading from a solo task into a dynamic and enjoyable activity. Not only will these activities help foster a love for reading, but they will also build essential skills that are crucial for academic success. So, grab some Scholastic books and let the fun and learning begin!