Getting some kids engaged in reading can feel like an uphill battle. As a parent of a 10 and 13-year-old, I understand this challenge all too well. While I have a deep love for books, my children don’t share the same enthusiasm. However, I’ve discovered that with the right selections, even reluctant readers can find joy in stories. With the help of my insightful friend, who is an educator and has tweens of her own, I’m excited to share a curated list of books that may captivate your reluctant readers, moving beyond the usual staples like Big Nate and Diary of a Wimpy Kid.
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The Treehouse Series by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton
This series combines whimsical stories with humorous illustrations, perfect for kids transitioning from picture books to chapter books while still enjoying visuals. -
Unicorn Rescue Society by Adam Gidwitz (illustrated by Dan Santat)
Ideal for unicorn enthusiasts, this series features illustrated beginner chapter books that engage young readers with both story and visuals. -
A Tale Dark and Grimm by Adam Gidwitz (illustrated by Hatem Aly)
For those who prefer darker tales, this series offers a twist on classic stories, making it an excellent choice for fans of monsters and witches. -
Arcade and the Triple T Token Series by Rashad Jennings
Written by a former NFL player, this series follows 11-year-old Arcade Livingstone on his adventures. Each book can be enjoyed independently or as part of the series. -
Counting By 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan
This poignant story about family and loss is suitable for young teens and can be enjoyed as a read-aloud with tweens. -
Dragons in a Bag by Zetta Elliott (illustrated by Geneva B)
Lauded as a “breath of fresh air,” this award-winning book features magic in an urban setting, featuring a relatable black protagonist that readers can connect with. -
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
This touching story about a captive gorilla has been compared to beloved classics like Charlotte’s Web, making it a moving read for families. -
Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales Series by Nathan Hale
These graphic novels creatively share history lessons, making them appealing to kids who prefer visual storytelling. -
The Last Day of Summer by Lamar Giles (illustrated by Dapo Adeola)
Follow two cousins on their summer adventures as they embrace their inner detectives, perfect for older tweens and young teens. -
Jada Jones Series by Kelly Starling Jones (illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton)
This early chapter book series focuses on the relatable experiences of fourth-grader Jada, easing the transition for reluctant readers. -
New Kid by Jerry Craft
An award-winning graphic novel that resonates with many young readers, it authentically depicts the challenges of starting at a new school. -
Low Riders In Space by Cathy Camper (illustrated by Raul the Third)
This adventurous graphic novel features three friends and their love for cars, blending fun with educational elements. -
“Who Is…” Series
With a wide array of topics, this series introduces kids to historical figures and pop culture icons in a digestible format that won’t overwhelm them. -
Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi
A captivating graphic novel series about Emily and her magical amulet, ideal for tweens and young teens alike. -
Fish In A Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
This best-selling story explores the life of Ally, a sixth-grader with dyslexia, promoting the message that everyone thinks differently—something many reluctant readers can relate to.
For more on fostering a love for reading, check out our other blog post here. It’s vital to find literature that resonates with your children, and resources like this can provide further insights. You can also refer to this excellent resource for related topics on home insemination.
Summary
Encouraging reluctant readers doesn’t have to be a chore. With a thoughtful selection of engaging books, you can help your tweens and young teens discover the joy of reading. From graphic novels to relatable series, these recommendations offer a variety of stories that can capture their interest.