20 Early Reader Books Kids Actually Want to Read

A free, librarian-curated book list for ages 5 to 9

As a librarian, the question I hear most from parents is: “What should my kid read next?”

Standing in the library or scrolling online, it’s hard to know which books will actually click. Some are too hard. Some feel babyish. And some just don’t grab them.

So I made the list I’d hand you myself. These are 20 tried-and-true favorites that kids reach for again and again.

Inside your free list:

• 20 hand-picked early readers and first chapter books for ages 5 to 9 (grades K to 3)

• A mix of laugh-out-loud series, graphic early readers, and cozy friendship stories

• A short note on each book so you know why kids love it

• Quick tips for using the list, from library holds to what to do when they find a series they love

Perfect if your child is:

• A brand-new reader building confidence

• A reluctant reader who hasn’t found “their” book yet

• Racing ahead and ready for early chapter books

Book choice is one of the biggest motivators for young readers. This list makes the next library trip easy, and maybe even exciting.

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