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

Looking for the perfect way to boost your 10-year-old's spelling skills? You're in the right place! Our guide to the best spelling books for 10-year-olds is packed with top picks that make learning fun and effective. Whether your child is a budding wordsmith or just getting the hang of their ABCs, these books offer something for everyone. Keep reading to discover our favorite spelling books that are sure to help your child ace their spelling tests!

Fun Spelling Books for 10-Year-Olds

• P is for Pterodactyl: The Worst Alphabet Book Ever by Raj Haldar and Chris Carpenter, illustrated by Maria Beddia
  • Genre(s): Children's, Humor, Educational
  • Synopsis: This unique alphabet book explores the oddities of English spelling through words where letters behave in peculiar ways, such as "K is for Knight."
  • Why we recommend this book: It turns the challenge of English spelling into fun with whimsical illustrations and quirky facts, making it a delightful read that educates while it entertains.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love fun facts and word puzzles.

• The 26-Story Treehouse by Andy Griffiths, illustrated by Terry Denton
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: In this wildly imaginative book, Andy and Terry live in a treehouse that has everything from a marshmallow machine to a bowling alley. Their adventures are as creative as they are hilarious.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with zany illustrations and creative storytelling that can help improve vocabulary and reading confidence in a very entertaining way.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy laughter and adventure in their stories.

• Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Young Charlie Bucket wins a contest to tour the mysterious Willy Wonka's chocolate factory, embarking on an adventure beyond his wildest dreams.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captivates the imagination with magical storytelling and rich vocabulary that challenges young readers in a fun way.
  • Perfect for: Children who love magical stories and learning new and interesting words.

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This series follows Greg Heffley as he navigates the trials and tribulations of middle school life, with all its awkward and funny moments captured in diary format.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its engaging diary format and humorous take on everyday situations make reading enjoyable and relatable, encouraging regular reading habits.
  • Perfect for: Kids who appreciate humor and might be reluctant readers.

• Miss Spell's Class by Frank Cammuso
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: The students in Miss Spell's class are like any other except that they're all monsters learning to spell in a very magical school.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines fun graphics with magical adventures that help reinforce spelling and grammar in a context that captivates young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy graphic novels and magical adventures.

Educational Spelling Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Spell Check: A Guide to Spelling for Wizards and Other Magical Beings by Norton Juster
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Educational
  • Synopsis: This enchanting book takes young wizards on a journey through the complexities of spellings in the English language, using magic as a fun tool to explain difficult concepts.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Spelling, vocabulary expansion, creative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively uses the theme of magic to make learning spelling engaging and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Young fantasy lovers and aspiring wizards who enjoy a magical twist to learning.

• The Spelling Bee Before Recess by Deborah Lee Rose, illustrated by Carey Armstrong-Ellis
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, School Life
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around a school spelling bee contest, capturing the excitement and nervousness of the participants.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Spelling, public speaking, competitive spirit
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a realistic portrayal of school events, encouraging readers to improve their spelling and build confidence.
  • Perfect for: Students who might be preparing for their own spelling bee or who enjoy school-based stories.

• Super Spelling Book for Kids by Samantha Chagollan
  • Genre(s): Educational, Activity Book
  • Synopsis: This book offers a variety of spelling puzzles and activities designed to help children master their spelling skills.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Spelling, problem-solving, cognitive development
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with fun activities that challenge young minds while improving their spelling.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy interactive learning and hands-on activities.

• Katie Fry, Private Eye: The Lost Kitten by Katherine Cox, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Katie Fry, a young detective, uses her spelling skills to solve the mystery of a lost kitten in her neighborhood.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Spelling, critical thinking, investigative skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages readers to use their spelling and detective skills to solve mysteries, making it both educational and thrilling.
  • Perfect for: Young mystery enthusiasts and animal lovers.

• The Great Dictionary Caper by Judy Sierra, illustrated by Eric Comstock
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Word Play
  • Synopsis: Characters from the dictionary escape and go on adventures, exploring concepts of spelling, grammar, and word usage through playful antics.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Vocabulary, spelling, grammar
  • Why we recommend this book: It turns the dictionary into a playground, making learning about words fun and interactive.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are curious about words and enjoy visually engaging stories.

Challenging Spelling Books for 10-Year-Olds

• A Spelling Bee for Me! by Sandy Lanton
  • Genre(s): Educational, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Follows the journey of a young student, Ben, as he prepares for his school's annual spelling bee, tackling challenging words and overcoming stage fright.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces advanced vocabulary and spelling rules, perfect for kids looking to stretch their spelling skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines a compelling narrative with educational content, which helps reinforce spelling in a context that's both relatable and motivational.
  • Perfect for: Students gearing up for spelling competitions or anyone who loves a good school story.

• The Spelling Bee Toolbox for Grades 3-5 by Ann Richmond Fisher
  • Genre(s): Educational, Resource
  • Synopsis: This toolbox provides all the necessary materials and guidelines to help teachers and students prepare for spelling bees, including word lists, practice tips, and quizzes.
  • Why this book is challenging: It offers a comprehensive suite of resources that cover a wide range of difficult words and spelling concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great resource for both classroom learning and home practice, ensuring thorough preparation for any spelling challenge.
  • Perfect for: Educators, parents, and students involved in spelling bee competitions.

• Spell Across America: 40 Word-Based Stories, Puzzles, and Trivia Facts by Kris Hirschmann, illustrated by James K. Hindle
  • Genre(s): Educational, Puzzle Book
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers on a tour across the United States, featuring 40 word-based stories and puzzles that celebrate the diversity and history of American English.
  • Why this book is challenging: It not only tests spelling skills but also enhances knowledge of cultural and historical trivia.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an engaging way to learn about America through the lens of language, offering both educational value and entertainment.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who have a knack for spelling and an interest in geography and history.

• The Young Speller's Dictionary by Fredrick Bodmer
  • Genre(s): Reference, Educational
  • Synopsis: A comprehensive dictionary designed specifically for young spellers, featuring definitions, pronunciation guides, and parts of speech.
  • Why this book is challenging: It goes beyond simple definitions to provide detailed information about the words, including their origins and usage.
  • Why we recommend this book: It serves as an excellent reference tool for young readers, helping them build a stronger vocabulary and better spelling skills.
  • Perfect for: Students who are serious about improving their spelling and understanding of the English language.

• Bee Season by Myla Goldberg
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: Eliza Naumann, a seemingly unremarkable girl, discovers her unusual talent for spelling, which changes her life and impacts her family in profound ways.
  • Why this book is challenging: While it's a work of fiction, the novel features complex vocabulary and themes that require advanced reading skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a deeper look at family dynamics and personal growth, all wrapped around the central theme of spelling competitions.
  • Perfect for: Older children and young teens who enjoy stories that blend personal achievement with family drama.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to boost your 10-year-old's spelling skills, incorporating some simple and fun exercises into their reading routine can make a big difference. Here’s a list of engaging exercises that not only enhance spelling abilities but also foster a love for reading.

• Word Hunt
  • What it is: Find new words in a reading material and look up their meanings.
  • How it helps: Expands vocabulary and improves understanding of word usage.
  • Tips: Use a dictionary or a dictionary app to make this exercise more engaging and informative.

• Create a Word Wall
  • What it is: Build a wall of words where new and challenging words are added regularly.
  • How it helps: Visual exposure to words helps in remembering their spellings and meanings.
  • Tips: Encourage your child to decorate and add personal touches to the word wall.

• Story Scramble
  • What it is: Write a short story using a set list of spelling words.
  • How it helps: Reinforces word spellings through creative usage and context.
  • Tips: Share these stories with family members to make the activity more fun and rewarding.

• Flashcard Fun
  • What it is: Use flashcards to practice spelling words.
  • How it helps: Enhances visual memory and quick recall of words.
  • Tips: Mix in some non-spelling related cards like math or trivia to keep the session lively.

• Spelling Bee Practice
  • What it is: Regularly organize mini spelling bees at home.
  • How it helps: Prepares them for school spelling challenges and improves public speaking skills.
  • Tips: Keep the atmosphere light and encouraging, regardless of mistakes.

• Read Aloud Sessions
  • What it is: Spend time reading books aloud together.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps recognize the correct spelling of words.
  • Tips: Choose books that are just right for their reading level—not too easy but not too hard.

• Interactive Spelling Apps
  • What it is: Utilize educational apps designed for spelling practice.
  • How it helps: Makes learning interactive and fun, using games and rewards.
  • Tips: Set aside specific times during the week for app-based learning to build a routine.

These exercises are not only helpful but also make learning a fun part of everyday life. Remember, the key to improvement is consistency, so try to incorporate these activities regularly. Watch as your child’s spelling skills improve, along with their love for reading! Happy spelling!