As a parent, it can be tricky to know what books are appropriate for your second grader. Not too babyish, but not too difficult either. Here is a list of some of the best books for second grade readers that will keep them engaged and entertained. From historical classics to modern reads to everything in between, there is something for everyone on this list!
So without further ado, here they are:
The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney
Jerry Pinkney’s The Lion & the Mouse is a 2009 book with only a few words that illustrates Aesop’s tale of The Lion and the Mouse. In the tale, a mouse is saved from death by a lion. Later, after the lion has been trapped, the mouse is able to set him free.
The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss
No list of best books for second grade readers would be complete without The Cat in the Hat! The Cat in the Hat is a children’s book written and illustrated by Theodor Geisel under the pen name Dr. Seuss and first published in 1957. The story centers on an anthropomorphic cat, who wears a red and white-striped hat and a red bow tie.This classic book by Dr. Seuss is sure to please any young reader.
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
Charlotte’s Web is a children’s novel by American author E. B. White and illustrated by Garth Williams; it was published on October 15, 1952, by Harper & Brothers. The novel tells the story of a young pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a barn spider named Charlotte.
The Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne
The Magic Tree House series is a best-selling children’s book series written by American author Mary Pope Osborne. The original American series is illustrated by Salvatore Murdocca, although other illustrations have been used in foreign-language editions.
The Berenstain Bears series by Stan and Jan Berenstain
The Berenstain Bears is a children’s book series created by Stan and Jan Berenstain. The books feature a family of anthropomorphic grizzly bears who learn to deal with various life lessons in each installment of the series.
Owl Moon by Jane Yolen
Owl Moon is a 1987 children’s picture book written by American author Jane Yolen and illustrated by John Schoenherr. It tells the story of a young girl who goes owling with her father in the wintertime.
Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown
Flat Stanley is a children’s book series created by Jeff Brown. The original 1964 book, Flat Stanley, was about a boy named Stanley Lambchop who is accidentally flattened by a bulletin board and then can be mailed in an envelope.
Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty
Rosie Revere, Engineer is a 2013 children’s picture book written by Andrea Beaty and illustrated by David Roberts. It tells the story of Rosie, a young girl who dreams of becoming an engineer. When her great-uncle gives her a kit to build a flying machine, she gets to work right away.
Junie B. Jones series by Barbara Park
The Junie B. Jones series is a best-selling children’s book series written by American author Barbara Park and illustrated by Denise Brunkus. The series follows the adventures of a young girl named Junie B. Jones as she navigates her way through kindergarten and first grade.
Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish
Amelia Bedelia is a children’s book series written by Peggy Parish and illustrated by Wallace tripp. The series follows the adventures of a young girl named Amelia Bedelia who is very literal-minded and often misunderstood.
Katie Woo Series by Fran Manushkin
The Katie Woo series is a best-selling children’s book series written by Fran Manushkin and illustrated by Tammie Lyon. The series follows the adventures of a young girl named Katie Woo as she encounters problems at home, school, and elsewhere..
Keena Ford Series by Melissa Thomson
The Keena Ford series is a best-selling children’s book series written by Melissa Thomson and illustrated by Frank Morrison. The series follows the adventures of a young African American girl named Keena Ford as she navigates her way through third grade.
Judy Moody Series by Megan McDonald
The Judy Moody series is a best-selling children’s book series written by Megan McDonald and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds.
Clifford the Big Red Dog by Norman Bridwell
Clifford is a big red dog who loves to play and has adventures with his best friend, Emily Elizabeth. But Clifford isn’t just any old dog–he’s a really big dog! In fact, he’s so big that sometimes he has trouble knowing his own strength. That’s when Emily Elizabeth has to help him remember the most important rule of all: Be kind to others, and always be thankful for what you have.
Dragonbreath Series by Ursula Vernon
The Dragonbreath series is a best-selling children’s book series written by Ursula Vernon and illustrated by Eric Wright. The series follows the adventures of a young dragon named Danny as he tries to fit in with his family and friends.
The best thing about these books is that they are all perfect for second grade readers. They are interesting and engaging, and will keep your child entertained for hours on end! So what are you waiting for? Pick up one of these books today!
Do you have a favorite book from your childhood that you think should be on this list? Let us know in the comments below! Happy reading!
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