Books about Kids: 2024 Updated Guide to Essential Reading

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The One and Only Bob

by Katherine Applegate

The One and Only Bob by Katherine Applegate is a heartwarming and adventurous kids book that follows the journey of Bob, a lovable and brave dog. Set in the same world as the bestselling “The One and Only Ivan,” this book about kids is filled with humor, friendship, and important life lessons. Bob embarks on a daring mission to rescue his friends, including Ivan the gorilla, and encounters various challenges along the way. With its touching story and endearing characters, this kids book is a delightful read for young readers. Filled with themes of loyalty, courage, and the power of friendship, The One and Only Bob is sure to captivate the hearts of both kids and adults alike.

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The Girl Who Drank the Moon

by Kelly Barnhill

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is a captivating book about kids that follows the story of a young girl named Luna, who is raised by a kind witch, a wise swamp monster, and a tiny dragon. Every year, the people of the Protectorate leave a baby as an offering to the witch in the woods, unaware that she is actually a protector who rescues and cares for the abandoned children. As Luna grows, she discovers her own extraordinary powers and sets out on a magical journey to uncover the truth about her past. This enchanting kids book is filled with themes of love, friendship, and the power of self-discovery, making it a captivating read for young readers and adults alike.

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The Wild Robot

by Peter Brown

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown is a captivating kids’ book that tells the story of Roz, a robot who finds herself stranded on a wild and remote island. As she adapts to her new surroundings, Roz befriends the animals and learns to survive in the wilderness. The heartwarming tale explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the importance of empathy. With its engaging storytelling and beautiful illustrations, The Wild Robot is a must-read for young readers who enjoy adventure and heartwarming tales. This book about kids is sure to captivate young minds and inspire a love for nature and animals.

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The War That Saved My Life

by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is a heartwarming and compelling book about kids set during World War II. The story follows Ada, a young girl with a twisted foot who has never been allowed to leave her abusive mother’s home. When Ada and her brother are evacuated from London to the countryside, they find themselves in the care of a kind and loving woman named Susan. As they adjust to their new life, Ada learns to ride a pony and discovers her own strength and courage. This kids book explores themes of family, resilience, and the power of love in the face of adversity. With its well-developed characters and gripping storyline, The War That Saved My Life is a must-read for readers of all ages.

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The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy

by Jeanne Birdsall

The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy by Jeanne Birdsall is a heartwarming book about kids that follows the adventures of four sisters – Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty – as they spend a summer vacation at a beautiful estate. The girls encounter a very interesting boy named Jeffrey, and together they embark on a series of delightful and sometimes mischievous escapades. With its charming characters, endearing relationships, and lighthearted humor, this kids book captures the essence of childhood innocence and the joy of summertime adventures. Jeanne Birdsall’s storytelling is filled with warmth and nostalgia, making The Penderwicks a perfect read for anyone who loves a classic tale of friendship, family, and the magic of childhood summers.

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The Secret Keepers

by Trenton Lee Stewart

The Secret Keepers by Trenton Lee Stewart is a captivating kids book filled with mystery, adventure, and friendship. The story follows a young boy named Reuben who discovers a mysterious and magical object that grants him extraordinary powers. As he unravels the secrets of the object, he finds himself caught up in a dangerous conspiracy and must rely on his quick thinking and bravery to survive. With its clever plot twists and engaging characters, this book about kids will keep young readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Reuben’s thrilling journey. The Secret Keepers is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery and a dash of magic.

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The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

by Stacy McAnulty

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacy McAnulty is a heartwarming and humorous kids’ book that follows the story of Lucy Callahan, a math genius with the ability to calculate complex equations in her head. After being struck by lightning, she develops some unique quirks, including the ability to remember everything she sees and hears. Despite her extraordinary math skills, Lucy struggles with social interactions and is homeschooled. However, when she is pushed to attend middle school, she is faced with new challenges and unexpected friendships that help her discover the true meaning of intelligence and the importance of embracing her differences. This captivating and inspiring story is perfect for young readers who enjoy stories about resilience, friendship, and the power of individuality.

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The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street

by Karina Yan Glaser

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street is a heartwarming kids’ book that follows the adventures of the Vanderbeeker siblings as they try to change their landlord’s mind about not renewing their lease. The five siblings, ranging in age from 4 to 12, embark on a mission to show their landlord, Mr. Beiderman, how important their home is to them. With their creativity, determination, and love for their neighborhood, the Vanderbeeker kids come up with a plan to bring their community together and save their beloved home. This delightful and heartwarming story is filled with themes of family, friendship, and the power of community. It’s a perfect read for kids who love heartwarming stories about family and friendship.

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The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making

by Catherynne M. Valente

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente is a whimsical and enchanting kids’ book that follows the adventures of a young girl named September. When she is whisked away to Fairyland, she embarks on a quest to retrieve a magical spoon and encounters a host of fantastical creatures along the way. The story is filled with imaginative world-building, lyrical prose, and themes of bravery, friendship, and growing up. Valente’s book about kids is a delightful blend of fantasy and coming-of-age, perfect for young readers who love to explore otherworldly realms and go on magical journeys.

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The Last Kids on Earth

by Max Brallier

The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier is a thrilling ‘book about kids’ surviving in a post-apocalyptic world. When a monster apocalypse hits their town, 13-year-old Jack Sullivan and his friends must band together to battle zombies and monstrous creatures. With a mix of humor, action, and heart, this ‘kids book’ follows the adventures of the last kids on earth as they navigate the new world and search for their families. The book is filled with illustrations, making it an engaging read for young readers. Fans of adventure, friendship, and all things monster-related will be hooked on this exciting series.

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The Trials of Apollo: The Hidden Oracle

by Rick Riordan

The Trials of Apollo: The Hidden Oracle is an enthralling kids book that follows the adventure of Apollo, the Greek god who has been turned into a mortal teenager as punishment. In this action-packed novel, Apollo must navigate the modern world while facing numerous trials to regain his place on Mount Olympus. With its blend of mythology, humor, and fast-paced storytelling, this book about kids is sure to captivate young readers and fans of Rick Riordan‘s previous works. Join Apollo on his quest for redemption as he battles monsters, encounters new friends, and learns valuable lessons about friendship and bravery. This kids book is a must-read for anyone who loves a thrilling and magical adventure.

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The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell

by Chris Colfer

The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer is a captivating book about kids that follows the adventures of twins Alex and Conner as they are transported to a magical world through a mysterious book. On their journey, they encounter classic fairy tale characters and embark on a quest to gather the ingredients for a wishing spell that can bring them back home. As they navigate through this enchanting land, the twins must overcome various challenges and face off against the Evil Queen and other villains. With its blend of adventure, humor, and heart, this kids book is a delightful and imaginative tale that will captivate young readers and leave them eagerly turning the pages to discover what happens next.

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The Mysterious Benedict Society

by Trenton Lee Stewart

The Mysterious Benedict Society is a captivating book about kids who embark on a thrilling adventure to save the world. When a peculiar advertisement leads four exceptionally gifted children to Mr. Benedict’s mysterious tests, they uncover a plot to control people’s minds. With their unique talents, they join forces to infiltrate the mysterious Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened and stop the evil mastermind behind it all. Packed with puzzles, humor, and heart, this kids’ book is a page-turner that celebrates the power of friendship and intelligence. Readers of all ages will be enthralled by the clever twists and turns in this exciting tale of bravery and teamwork.

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The Invention of Hugo Cabret

by Brian Selznick

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick is a captivating kids’ book that combines a compelling story with intricate pencil illustrations. Set in 1930s Paris, the book follows Hugo, a young orphan who lives in a train station and tends to the clocks. Hugo’s life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a mysterious automaton left behind by his late father, leading him on a thrilling adventure to uncover its secrets. This book about kids is a unique blend of novel and graphic novel, with its stunning visuals adding depth and emotion to the narrative. As Hugo navigates through the bustling city and encounters a cast of colorful characters, readers are drawn into a world of magic, mystery, and the power of perseverance. The Invention of Hugo Cabret is a spellbinding tale that will enchant readers of all ages.

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The Lightning Thief

by Rick Riordan

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan is a thrilling kids’ book that follows the adventures of Percy Jackson, a 12-year-old boy who discovers that he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon. As he navigates through a world of gods, monsters, and ancient mythological creatures, Percy must embark on a quest to prevent a war among the gods and find the stolen lightning bolt of Zeus. With the help of his friends, Percy sets out on a dangerous journey across the United States, facing numerous challenges and battles along the way. Filled with action, humor, and a captivating blend of ancient mythology and modern-day life, this book about kids is sure to captivate young readers and ignite their imagination.

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The Giver

by Lois Lowry

The Giver by Lois Lowry is a captivating dystopian novel that follows the story of Jonas, a young boy living in a seemingly perfect society. However, as Jonas begins his training to become the Receiver of Memory, he uncovers the dark and complex truth behind his community. The book delves into themes of individuality, freedom, and the importance of emotions, making it a thought-provoking read for both adults and younger readers. Lowry’s masterful storytelling and vivid imagery make The Giver a timeless and powerful book about kids that challenges readers to question the status quo and appreciate the depth of human experience.

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The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

by C.S. Lewis

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis is a classic children’s fantasy novel that follows the adventures of four siblings who discover a magical land inside a wardrobe. Set in the enchanting world of Narnia, the story revolves around the battle between good and evil, as the children, along with the majestic lion Aslan, must work together to defeat the White Witch and bring peace to the land. With its themes of bravery, loyalty, and the enduring power of love, this book about kids has captivated readers of all ages for generations. Filled with wonder, excitement, and unforgettable characters, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a timeless kids book that continues to inspire and delight readers around the world.

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The Harry Potter series

by J.K. Rowling

The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling is a beloved book about kids that follows the magical adventures of Harry Potter, a young wizard, and his friends as they navigate the world of witchcraft and wizardry. The series consists of seven books, each chronicling a year in Harry’s life at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. From battling dark forces to uncovering secrets about his own past, Harry and his friends face thrilling challenges that captivate readers of all ages. With its mix of friendship, courage, and magic, this kids’ book has captured the hearts of millions worldwide, becoming a timeless classic that continues to inspire and enchant readers across generations.

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The Little Prince

by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of readers for generations. This enchanting story revolves around a young prince who leaves his tiny planet and travels to different planets, encountering a variety of eccentric characters along the way. Through his encounters, the little prince learns valuable life lessons about love, friendship, and the importance of seeing with the heart. This whimsical tale is not just a book on kids; it is a profound exploration of human nature and the complexities of adulthood, all seen through the innocent and insightful eyes of a child. The book about kids is filled with beautiful illustrations and poetic prose, making it a captivating read for readers of all ages. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to experience the magic of storytelling and rediscover the wonder of childhood.

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The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

by Mark Twain

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain is a classic book about kids that follows the mischievous and adventurous Tom Sawyer as he navigates the trials and triumphs of growing up in a small town along the Mississippi River. From playing hooky and getting into trouble with his friends to seeking buried treasure and facing dangerous escapades, Tom’s escapades are both thrilling and humorous. The novel explores the timeless themes of friendship, bravery, and the innocence of childhood, making it a beloved kids’ book for generations. With its vivid portrayal of American life in the 19th century and its timeless appeal, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer continues to captivate readers of all ages.