Good Books for 1st Graders

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  The Boxcar Children

  by Gertrude Chandler Warner

  Four orphaned siblings create a home in an abandoned boxcar and solve mysteries together. This heartwarming tale has captivated young readers for generations.

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  Horrible Harry in Room 2B

  by Suzy Kline

  Harry is a lovable troublemaker whose classroom antics keep things lively. A fun, realistic school story with plenty of mischief.

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  Ivy + Bean

  by Annie Barrows, Sophie Blackall

  Two very different girls become best friends in this funny and heartfelt series starter. Ideal for early chapter readers looking for relatable, spirited adventures.

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  Dog Man

  by Dav Pilkey

  Part dog, part man, all hero—Dog Man fights crime with lots of laughs and heart. Bursting with energy and Pilkey's trademark absurdity.

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  The Infamous Ratsos

  by Kara LaReau, Matt Myers

  Two tough rat brothers try to act mean—but keep accidentally doing good. Short, funny, and packed with heart and humor.

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  Charlotte's Web

  by E. B. White

  A tender story of friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a wise, word-weaving spider named Charlotte. This beloved classic explores love, loss, and loyalty in the most enchanting way.

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  Little Bear

  by Else Holmelund Minarik, Maurice Sendak

  This classic early reader captures sweet, timeless stories between a bear cub and his mother. Endearing and gentle from start to finish.

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  A to Z Mysteries: The Absent Author

  by Ron Roy

  Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose crack cases from A to Z, starting with the disappearance of a famous author. Short chapters, steady suspense, and clever kids make for perfect early mysteries.

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  Matilda

  by Roald Dahl

  A brilliant girl with extraordinary powers stands up to the bullies in her life. Dahl's tale celebrates intelligence, courage, and the magic that happens when children are empowered to change their world.

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  My Father's Dragon

  by Ruth Stiles Gannett

  A boy sets off to rescue a baby dragon on a distant island in this timeless fantasy. Told with classic storytelling charm and imaginative illustrations.