To continue our list of summer reading recommendations, we’ve compiled a list of 10 books from a variety of authors and genres for older writers in grades 4 through 7.
1) Harry Potter series by JK Rowling: 4th through 7th grade is the perfect time to start reading this iconic series. The 7 adventure-filled books still remain some of my favorite books ever written.
Lexile Level: 870L
2) Wonder by RJ Palacio: This heartwarming book tells the story of a young boy with a facial abnormality who struggles to gain acceptance in school. Wonder is a beautiful story about kindness, acceptance, and stepping out of your comfort zone.
Lexile Level: 790L
3) The Giver by Lois Lowry: One of the most fascinating reads from my elementary school days, The Giver tells the story of a boy who discovers disturbing secrets about his utopian community. Lowry’s most famous book, The Giver is a great read for writers in 5th grade and up.
Lexile Level: 760L
4) Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson: Bridge to Terabithia follows two young kids, Leslie and Jesse as they create a magical forest in their imaginations. A magical story of grief, friendship, and love, this book is a great read for readers in grades 5 and up.
Lexile Level: 810L
5) The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank: Also known as The Diary of Anne Frank, The Diary of a Young Girl is a collection of real writings from the diary kept by a young girl named Anne Frank while she was in hiding during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands in the 1940s. Anne Frank’s writings are a powerful and thought-provoking read for students in grades 4 and up.
Lexile Level: 670L
6) Stargirl Jerry Spinelli: This book tells the story of a unique teenage girl grappling with the transition from homeschool to public school. A powerful read about non-conformity, individuality, and confidence, Stargirl is a fun read for students in grades 4 and up.
Lexile Level: 590L
7) War Horse by Michael Morpurgo: War Horse follows Joey, a horse brought for service in World War I France and his owner Albert’s attempts to bring him home safely. War Horse is an exciting read for students in grades 4 and up.
Lexile Level: 580L
8) Holes by Louis Sachar: Another one of my favorite reads from my elementary school days, Holes follows a boy named Stanley Yelnats (yes, that’s Stanley spelled backward) who is sent to a correctional boot camp after being falsely accused of theft. This mystery comedy is a fun and interesting read for readers in grades 4 and up.
Lexile Level: 660L
9) The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak: This historical fiction novel follows a girl during World War II in Nazi Germany whose parents attempt to hide a Jewish man from the Nazis. This thrilling read is a powerful read about the realities of World War II, appropriate for students in grades 5 and up.
Lexile Level: 730L
10) Little Women by Louisa May Alcott: Louisa May Alcott’s classic coming-of-age novel follows the lives of the four March sisters, Meg, Jo Beth, and Amy as they transition from girlhood to womanhood. The iconic 1868 novel is a great read about women empowerment for students in grades 4 and up.
Lexile Level: 710L
We hope these book recommendations inspire your older writers to begin their summer reading journey!