20 best books on 5th grade – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you on the lookout for a book that perfectly captures the essence of the 5th grade experience? Look no further! We have curated a list of the 20 best books about 5th grade that will transport you back to those memorable school days. From heartwarming tales of friendship and self-discovery to thrilling adventures and laugh-out-loud funny stories, these books are sure to captivate both young readers and nostalgic adults alike. So, grab a cozy spot and get ready to dive into our handpicked selection of 5th grade books!


Wonder

by R.J. Palacio

Wonder by R.J. Palacio is an extraordinary book that takes readers on a heartfelt journey through the ups and downs of fifth grade. This captivating story revolves around a young boy named August Pullman, who was born with a facial deformity. Auggie has always been homeschooled, shielded from the outside world, but now he must face his biggest challenge yet: attending a mainstream school for the first time.

The One and Only Ivan

by Katherine Applegate

The One and Only Ivan is a captivating tale that will transport readers to the enchanting world of a shopping mall. This extraordinary book on 5th grade tells the story of Ivan, a gentle and artistic silverback gorilla who has spent most of his life in a small domain within the mall. With his fellow animal companions, including a wise and outspoken elephant named Stella, Ivan’s days are filled with mundane routines and a yearning for something more.

However, everything changes when a baby elephant named Ruby arrives at the mall and captures Ivan’s heart. Witness Ivan’s transformation from a passive observer to a determined hero as he embarks on a mission to protect Ruby and find her a better life. With the help of his trusty friends, Ivan displays courage, resilience, and the power of friendship in the face of adversity.

This heartwarming book about 5th grade explores themes of empathy, compassion, and the importance of standing up for what is right. Through Ivan’s insightful and introspective narration, readers will be captivated by the power of his voice and his ability to see the beauty in the world around him.

Perfect for readers of all ages, The One and Only Ivan is a 5th grade book that will leave a lasting impression. It is a story that reminds us of the strength of the human spirit and the incredible bonds that can be formed between animals and humans. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and forever changed by Ivan’s unforgettable journey.

The Lemonade War

by Jacqueline Davies

The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies is an exciting and entertaining book about fifth grade. It follows the story of Evan and his younger sister Jessie, as they compete against each other in a lemonade-selling contest. This book is perfect for those who are looking for a thrilling and educational read about the adventures of fifth graders. Dive into this fifth grade book and join Evan and Jessie in their lemonade war!

Because of Mr. Terupt

by Rob Buyea

Because of Mr. Terupt is an extraordinary book about a group of students in their final year of elementary school. This heartwarming story takes place in a fifth-grade classroom, where the students embark on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and understanding.

Fish in a Tree

by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Are you ready to dive into the deep sea of fifth grade? Prepare to embark on an incredible journey as you explore the pages of Fish in a Tree, a captivating adventure through the world of a 5th grade classroom.

In this heartwarming and empowering book about 5th grade, author Lynda Mullaly Hunt takes us on a rollercoaster ride alongside Ally, a brilliant young girl who struggles with dyslexia. As Ally faces countless challenges in school, she often feels like a fish out of water. But when a new teacher named Mr. Daniels arrives, everything changes.

Mr. Daniels sees the potential in Ally that no one else has, and he helps her discover her own unique strengths. With his guidance, Ally learns to believe in herself and embrace her differences. Along the way, she also forms unexpected friendships and finds the courage to stand up for what she believes in.

Fish in a Tree is not just a typical book on 5th grade, it’s a powerful tale of resilience, kindness, and the importance of understanding and supporting one another. Through Hunt’s beautifully crafted storytelling, readers of all ages will be inspired to overcome their own obstacles and celebrate their individuality.

So, get ready to dive into the world of fifth grade with Fish in a Tree. You’ll be hooked from the very first page!

The War That Saved My Life

by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

If you’re looking for an extraordinary book on 5th grade that will captivate your imagination and touch your heart, then look no further than The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley.

This incredible book about 5th grade tells the story of Ada, a young girl with a clubfoot who is confined to her London apartment by her abusive mother. When World War II breaks out, Ada and her brother Jamie are evacuated to the countryside, away from the dangers of the city.

As Ada adjusts to her new surroundings, she discovers a newfound sense of freedom and independence. With the help of a caring woman named Susan, Ada learns to ride a pony, read, and experience the simple joys of childhood that were previously denied to her.

However, just as Ada begins to find happiness, the war threatens to tear her family apart once again. With her mother’s return looming, Ada must summon the strength to protect herself and her brother.

Brubaker Bradley’s writing is both powerful and poignant, effortlessly transporting readers into Ada’s world. Through Ada’s eyes, we witness the devastating effects of war, but also the resilience and strength of the human spirit.

This 5th grade book tackles themes of love, family, and survival, making it a perfect choice for young readers who are ready to explore deeper emotions and ideas. It offers a valuable lesson about the power of resilience and the importance of finding hope in the darkest of times.

So, if you’re searching for a book on 5th grade that will leave a lasting impact and inspire meaningful discussions, The War That Saved My Life is an absolute must-read.

Out of My Mind

by Sharon M. Draper

Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper is an extraordinary tale that takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the power of the human mind. This captivating 5th grade book dives into the mind of Melody, a brilliant young girl trapped in a body that refuses to cooperate.

The Wild Robot

by Peter Brown

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown is a captivating book about 5th grade that will transport readers to a unique and enchanting world. This thrilling story follows the adventures of Roz, a curious and resourceful robot who finds herself stranded on a deserted island. As Roz adapts to her new surroundings, she encounters a wide array of fascinating creatures and forms unexpected friendships. Through her journey, Roz learns valuable lessons about friendship, resilience, and the power of nature. With its engaging plot and vivid illustrations, this 5th grade book is sure to captivate readers of all ages.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon

by Kelly Barnhill

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is a magical adventure that will captivate readers in the fifth grade and beyond. This enchanting tale is filled with mystery, friendship, and the power of love. Join Luna, a young girl with extraordinary abilities, as she navigates a world where magic is both feared and revered. With stunning prose and a compelling storyline, this book is sure to be a favorite among those seeking a captivating read. Dive into the pages of this extraordinary 5th grade book and prepare to be swept away on an unforgettable journey.

The Thing About Jellyfish

by Ali Benjamin

The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin is a captivating book about 5th grade that will transport readers into the world of a young girl named Suzy. This 5th grade book takes us on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and the complexities of growing up.

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

by Stacy McAnulty

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl is an electrifying tale that will surely captivate readers of all ages. This book centers around a unique protagonist, Lucy Callahan, a twelve-year-old girl who was struck by lightning at age eight. As a result, Lucy possesses genius-level math skills and a photographic memory. However, she also has some quirky behaviors and anxieties that make navigating the complexities of middle school quite challenging.

Set in the world of 5th grade, this novel takes readers on an incredible journey as Lucy is faced with the ultimate challenge: attending a regular public school for the first time. Despite her extraordinary abilities, Lucy is determined to downplay her intelligence and fit in with her classmates. But as she forms unexpected friendships and encounters various obstacles, Lucy begins to realize that embracing her true self might just be the key to finding her place in the world.

With its relatable characters, heartwarming moments, and empowering themes, The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl is a must-read for anyone seeking an inspiring and entertaining 5th grade book. Stacy McAnulty’s storytelling prowess shines through as she effortlessly captures the voice of a young girl facing the challenges of adolescence and self-discovery. Prepare to be swept away by this delightful tale of friendship, acceptance, and embracing one’s unique talents.

The Last Kids on Earth

by Max Brallier

The Last Kids on Earth is an epic adventure that will transport readers into a post-apocalyptic world like no other. This thrilling 5th grade book by Max Brallier is perfect for young readers who crave action, humor, and a whole lot of fun.

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street

by Karina Yan Glaser

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street is a delightful book about the trials and tribulations of a quirky and lovable family living on 141st Street. Set in a vibrant neighborhood in New York City, this heartwarming story follows the Vanderbeeker children as they embark on a mission to convince their grumpy landlord to let them stay in their beloved brownstone home. With plenty of humor, adventure, and heart, this book is perfect for readers who love tales of family, friendship, and the unpredictable ups and downs of fifth grade life.

The Penderwicks

by Jeanne Birdsall

The Penderwicks is a delightful tale that takes readers on a whimsical journey into the world of the fifth grade. This captivating book on 5th grade introduces readers to the Penderwick sisters – Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty – as they embark on a summer adventure filled with friendship, mischief, and unexpected surprises.

The Great Treehouse War

by Lisa Graff

Are you ready for an epic adventure in a treehouse? Look no further than The Great Treehouse War by Lisa Graff, the ultimate book for fifth graders!

This thrilling tale revolves around a group of fifth graders who find themselves caught in the midst of an extraordinary battle. When Winnie’s parents announce that they are divorcing and she is forced to split her time between them, she comes up with a brilliant plan to stay in one place – live in her treehouse!

But Winnie’s idea sparks a wave of rebellion among her classmates, who all demand their own treehouses as well. Soon, the school’s playground is transformed into a sprawling network of interconnected treehouses, creating a whimsical world where the students live, eat, and sleep.

As the treehouses multiply and tensions rise, the fifth graders find themselves divided into two warring factions. With alliances formed and secret passageways discovered, the battle for control of the treehouses becomes fierce and thrilling.

This book is not only a heartwarming story about friendship and resilience, but it also explores important themes such as family, identity, and the power of teamwork. It will have you laughing, gasping, and cheering for your favorite characters until the very last page.

If you’re looking for an exciting and relatable book about fifth grade, then The Great Treehouse War is the perfect choice. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the treetops!

The Secret Keepers

by Trenton Lee Stewart

The Secret Keepers is an enthralling adventure novel perfect for readers in the fifth grade. This captivating book delves into the life of a young protagonist who stumbles upon a mysterious object that grants him the power of invisibility. As he navigates through the secrets and dangers of his city, he becomes the ultimate secret keeper. Join him on this thrilling journey of discovery, friendship, and bravery as he unravels the truth behind the powerful object and uncovers the hidden secrets of his town. With its suspenseful plot and relatable characters, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an exciting 5th grade adventure.

The School for Good and Evil

by Soman Chainani

The School for Good and Evil is an enchanting 5th grade book that will transport readers into a world of magic, friendship, and unexpected twists. This book on 5th grade follows the journey of two best friends, Sophie and Agatha, who are mysteriously whisked away to the School for Good and Evil, a legendary institution that trains students to become fairytale heroes and villains.

The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell

by Chris Colfer

Step into a magical world with “The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell” by Chris Colfer, a captivating book perfect for those in the fifth grade. This enchanting tale takes readers on an extraordinary adventure filled with excitement, wonder, and friendship.

The Giver

by Lois Lowry

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey into a world where everything seems perfect, but nothing is quite as it seems? Prepare to be captivated by “The Giver” by Lois Lowry, a thought-provoking and thrilling book that will leave you questioning the very fabric of society.

Set in a seemingly idyllic community, this mesmerizing tale follows a young protagonist, Jonas, as he prepares to transition into adulthood. However, this is no ordinary coming-of-age story. In this dystopian world, conformity is valued above all else, and individuality is strictly suppressed.

As Jonas begins his training to become the Receiver of Memory, he discovers the shocking truth behind his community’s facade of perfection. Guided by the enigmatic Giver, Jonas delves into a world of memories and emotions long forgotten by his society. With each revelation, Jonas must grapple with the weight of knowledge and the responsibility to bring about change.

Through Lowry’s masterful storytelling, readers are invited to question the price of sameness and the true meaning of freedom. This extraordinary book about fifth grade will ignite your imagination and challenge your perceptions of the world around you.

So, are you ready to dive into the pages of “The Giver” and explore a world where conformity reigns supreme? Prepare to be captivated by this fifth-grade book that will leave you pondering the power of choice and the importance of individuality.

Holes

by Louis Sachar

Holes by Louis Sachar is an incredibly captivating and thrilling novel that takes readers on a journey through the fascinating world of a group of fifth graders. This book is perfect for anyone who loves an exciting and suspenseful story set in a fifth grade classroom.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about 5th grade are the perfect companions for any young reader looking to explore the world of literature. From heartwarming stories of friendship and self-discovery to thrilling adventures and mysteries, there is something for everyone on this list. Whether your child is already in 5th grade or preparing to enter it, these books will inspire, entertain, and captivate their imaginations. So, grab a copy of these incredible books and let the reading journey begin!