Good Books for Ten Year Olds

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  The Grimm Legacy

  by Polly Shulman

  A secret library holds relics from Grimm's folk tales—and two teens must protect the stories from disappearing. A clever meta-mystery brimming with literary charm.

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  Ghost

  by Jason Reynolds

  Ghost joins a track team to outrun his past—but running isn't always enough. A powerful portrait of resilience, hope, and finding your stride.

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  Fablehaven

  by Brandon Mull

  Siblings Kendra and Seth discover their grandparents are caretakers of a secret magical preserve. A suspenseful and enchanting fantasy perfect for lovers of mythical creatures.

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  The Westing Game

  by Ellen Raskin

  Sixteen heirs must solve the mystery of Samuel Westing's death to claim his fortune. This Newbery Medal winner is a cleverly crafted puzzle that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

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  11 Birthdays

  by Wendy Mass

  Amanda and Leo keep reliving their eleventh birthday until they mend their fractured friendship. A charming time-loop tale of forgiveness and growing pains that feels like a warm hug.

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  Three Times Lucky

  by Sheila Turnage

  Twelve-year-old Mo sets out to solve a murder in her quirky Louisiana town. Full of sharp dialogue, oddball charm, and a heroine with a heart as big as the bayou.

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  Matilda

  by Roald Dahl

  A brilliant little girl with telekinetic powers triumphs over injustice with charm and smarts. Delightful, mischievous, and heartening for anyone who's ever felt underestimated.

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  Beetle Boy

  by M. G. Leonard

  Darkus Cuttle teams up with extraordinary beetles to find his missing father—and outwit a wicked bug dealer. Quirky, science-driven, and utterly page-turning.

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  From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler

  by E.L. Konigsburg

  Claudia and Jamie run away to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and become involved in solving an art mystery. This Newbery Medal winner combines adventure with art appreciation and sibling dynamics.

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  The Lightning Thief

  by Rick Riordan

  Percy Jackson learns he's half-god in this thrilling debut of the Percy Jackson series. It's a clever mix of Greek myth and modern adventure that grips readers with humor and heart.