Good Books for 8 Year Olds

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  Henry and Mudge: The First Book

  by Cynthia Rylant, Suçie Stevenson

  Henry finds companionship in his giant dog Mudge in this easy-reader series. Sweet and simple stories of everyday love and loyalty.

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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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  The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

  by C.S. Lewis

  Lucy discovers a magical world through the back of a wardrobe in this beloved fantasy classic. The first Chronicles of Narnia book blends adventure, talking animals, and timeless themes of good versus evil.

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  The Chicken Squad

  by Doreen Cronin, Kevin Cornell

  Four chicks take on wild backyard mysteries with hilarious results. A clever and silly mystery series for younger readers.

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  The Amazing World of Gumball: Recipe for Disaster

  by Megan Brennan

  A graphic novel based on the hit cartoon series—chaotic, silly, and packed with humor for fans of Gumball's universe.

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  Stink: The Incredible Shrinking Kid

  by Megan McDonald, Peter H. Reynolds

  Judy Moody's little brother Stink has big personality—especially when he feels shorter than everyone else. Funny and empowering for new readers.

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  Mercy Watson to the Rescue

  by Kate DiCamillo, Chris Van Dusen

  Mercy is a toast-loving pig who finds herself in all kinds of suburban shenanigans. A charming and hilarious introduction to chapter books.

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  Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus

  by Barbara Park

  Junie B. Jones is a feisty kindergartner with big opinions and bigger mischief. Her humorous perspective on everyday life is laugh-out-loud funny and relatable.

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  Freckle Juice

  by Judy Blume

  Andrew wants freckles more than anything—until his plan to get them backfires hilariously. A short, silly, and classic Judy Blume story.

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  Ramona the Pest

  by Beverly Cleary

  Ramona is starting kindergarten, and her big personality is on full display. Cleary captures the earnestness and hilarity of early childhood like no one else.