Book Recommendations for Primary School Children
It can be really difficult to find books that match your child's abilities as well as them being interesting enough to them to make them want to read. Here at Books2Door, we love giving suggestions for great kids’ books appropriate to their age and reading level. In this blog, we’ve selected some great books your children will love, whatever key stage they’re in.
Books for Pre-School, Reception, and Early Years Children
Picture books are a fantastic resource for younger children as they don’t rely heavily on the words, allowing the children to enjoy the books without struggling with the words as much. Having words in them is also a great way to encourage children to read and piece the story together with the images.
A fantastic book set to start your reading journey with your little ones is the Elmer Children Picture 10 Books Collection Set By David McKee. Elmer the patchwork elephant has been teaching children to read since 1968. These colourful books are eye-catching and memorable, making them a great first book series to introduce them to reading.
Another great set for little readers is Supertato and Other Stories 10 Books Collection By Sue Hendra & Paul Linnet. This set contains fantastic characters such as Supertato, Barry the Fish with Fingers, Keith the Cat with a Magic Hat and Norman the Slug with the Silly Shell. These fantastically silly books will have your little ones in hysterics as they are desperate to read on. Just like Elmer, these books are bright with short sentences and lots of illustrations, making them easy to follow and enjoy whilst being an affordable children’s book set.
Books for Key Stage 1 - Year One and Year Two
As your children enter Year One they will be introduced to phonics, this learning method will be a huge part of their schooling, especially in KS1. With that in mind, we have a fantastic range of phonics books for you to check out. However, our favourite is Julia Donaldson's Songbirds Phonics: Read with Oxford Stages 1-4 36 Books Collection. Categorised in line with The Oxford Reading Tree, these books are full of wonderful illustrations and brilliant rhymes to help to encourage their phonics skills.
A great introduction to chapter books and introducing children to follow stories is the You Choose series by Pippa Goodhart and Nick Sharratt. In You Choose, children are presented with a series of scenarios, such as choosing what pet to get, what to wear, and where to go on vacation. Each decision the child makes leads them down a different path, and they get to see the consequences of their choices. Here at Books2Door, we have a fantastic book set You Choose Series 4 Book Set which contains the books You Choose, You Choose in Space, You Choose Your Dreams and You Choose Fairy Tales which would be great for Year Two students.
Books for Key Stage 2
When it comes to key stage 2, finding books that test their skills but also keeps them engaged and interested can be tricky. Here at Books2Door, we have highlighted some personal favourites. However, at this age encouraging them to read anything is a bonus so if they have a love for a particular character like Bluey, Peppa Pig or Hey Duggee make sure you check out their books!
Year Three
For a storybook, why not check out The Bear And The Piano By David Litchfield 3 Books Collection? This beautiful story follows a bear as he stumbles across a piano in the forest and slowly teaches himself how to play. The books follow the bear as he achieves fame and fortune but he misses his friends and his forest. Exploring the themes of belonging as well as introducing them to new words like ‘standing ovation’ and ‘admiration’. These books are great for encouraging children to relay information back to you and for you to ask them questions about the story. For example, how do they know the audience is enjoying the bear’s music? These are key skills in children’s comprehension and practising them at home will make them much more enjoyable as well as help to improve their skills. Perfect for a Year Three child.
There are some fantastic early chapter books to get your little ones started on. But two of our favourites are The Boy Who Grew Dragons and Princess Rules. When Tomas finds a mysterious tree in his Grandad’s garden and brings some of the fruit home. Little did he know that this tree was a dragonfruit tree and that fruit is an egg! The Boy Who Grew Dragons 3 Books Collection this hugely entertaining adventure about a small boy and his pet dragon would make a super read-aloud for KS2. Princess Rules Series by Philippa Gregory is a fantastic series for fans of Disney Princesses. Princess Florizella may live in a classic fairy-tale world, but she’s no ordinary princess, she likes to break the rules and go on adventures!
For more books for this age group and ability, check out our early readers' books. We have a great selection to choose from, helping your child start their literary journey.
Year Four
Year Four can be a tricky age to keep encouraging their reading at home. A fantastic set that is known throughout households, whether it is from the books or the adaptations is the Roald Dahl 16 book collection. From eating Snozzcumbers with The BFG to stealing from greedy farms with Fantastic Mr Fox and discovering telekinetic powers with Matilda, there’s something for everyone in this book set.
Another fantastic book set for 8-9-year-olds, check out Cat Kid! From the amazing mind of Dav Pilkey, that bought us Captain Underpants and Dog-Man your little ones will go on a wild adventure filled with hilarity. These books are ideal for reluctant readers or dyslexic readers as they are in graphic novel form. Meaning they have just as much action, if not more, than a regular chapter book but it is fleshed out with detailed drawings making it easier to follow. Check out our Cat Kid Comic Club by Dav Pilkey 4 Books Collection Set for the series so far.
Make sure you check out our full range of chapter books here, as you’re child grows in confidence they will soon breeze through these books and be asking to read what you are reading.
Year Five
Prepare to embark on an enchanting literary journey with the acclaimed Artemis Fowl series—a beloved and acclaimed fantasy saga that has captivated children aged 9 to 12. This spellbinding collection seamlessly blends supernatural elements, exhilarating escapades, and a delightful dose of humour.
Immerse yourself in the captivating tale that unfolds around the ingenious 12-year-old protagonist, Artemis, a prodigious criminal mastermind. As the story unfurls, Artemis concocts a daring scheme to abduct a prominent fairy leader, intending to demand a hefty ransom in fairy gold. Little does he know that the fairies are not to be underestimated, armed and prepared to fiercely defend themselves.
Brace yourself for a breathtaking clash of wits and wills as Artemis and the fairies engage in an epic battle of cunning and bravery. Join the legions of young readers who have been captivated by this award-winning series, where every page teems with supernatural action, pulse-pounding adventure, and moments that will leave you chuckling. Discover why Artemis Fowl has become a resounding success and an enduring favourite among young readers across the globe.
For an exhilarating and imaginative reading experience tailored to children aged 9-10, I highly recommend diving into the captivating Brightstorm Chronicles penned by the talented Vashti Hardy. Embark on an epic journey alongside twins Arthur and Maudie Brightstorm, intrepid explorers in a world filled with skyships, mechanical creatures, and thrilling expeditions.
These action-packed adventures whisk readers away to fantastical lands, where mysteries abound and courage knows no bounds. Hardy's masterful storytelling and vibrant characters will transport young readers to a world brimming with wonder and excitement. The Brightstorm Chronicles is a series that will ignite the imaginations of young minds and leave them eager for more thrilling escapades. Get all four books here in our The Brightstorm Chronicles book set.
If you're seeking a magical and captivating reading experience for children in Year Five, look no further than the enchanting world of Harry Potter. J.K. Rowling's timeless series has captured the hearts and imaginations of young readers worldwide. Follow the extraordinary journey of Harry Potter, a young wizard destined for greatness, as he navigates the halls of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
From uncovering hidden secrets to battling dark forces, each page invites readers on a thrilling adventure filled with friendship, bravery, and the power of imagination. The Harry Potter books are a must-read for children in this age range, sparking a lifelong love of reading and introducing them to a world of magic and wonder. Get all seven in our Harry Potter series collection.
Are you ready to see unicorns like you have never seen them before? In the Skandar Series By A.F. Steadman, you will. Cast aside the notion of them being merely shiny, mythical creatures, for they are far more than meets the eye. Unicorns are fierce, enchanting, and formidable beings, and they are undeniably real. In the world, we explore, the hearts of mainland children yearn to conquer the Hatchery exam, their ticket to becoming esteemed unicorn riders. Among them is Skandar Smith, a thirteen-year-old filled with the desire to become a hero.
However, when Skandar's long-awaited moment arrives, fate seems determined to conspire against him. The Island's mightiest unicorn vanishes, stolen by an eerie adversary who has resurfaced with a burning vengeance. As Skandar delves deeper into this enigmatic quest, he uncovers a well-guarded secret that possesses the power to reshape everything he holds dear, potentially crushing his cherished dreams in the process. Brace yourself for an extraordinary journey where unicorns reveal their true nature and a young hero confronts his greatest trials.
Get ready for a thrilling escapade with The Invasion of Crooked Oak series, a high-speed adventure that's perfect for older KS2 children. This captivating tale marks the beginning of a series set in the intriguing town of Crooked Oak. If your little ones can't get enough of spine-chilling narratives like Goosebumps, they're in for a treat with this fast-paced and easily digestible read. Another fantastic thing about this series is that it is published by Barrington Stoke who specialises in accessible books. This series is printed with clear text on a coloured background that is specially formatted to cater for dyslexic readers.
Year Six and Beyond
Delve into the captivating Cogheart Adventure series penned by the talented Peter Bunzl. Get all four books in the series in our Cogheart Adventure 4 book set by Peter Bunzl. Join Lily, a spirited and resourceful heroine, as she unravels the secrets of her father's mysterious disappearance in a world of clockwork marvels and airships. Set in a Victorian-inspired steampunk universe, these action-packed tales blend suspense, friendship, and ingenious contraptions to deliver an unforgettable reading experience. Bunzl's vivid storytelling and intricate world-building will transport young readers to a realm where mechanical animals and high-stakes adventures reign supreme.
The Cogheart Adventure series is a perfect choice for those seeking a thrilling and imaginative literary journey that will leave them eagerly turning the pages until the very end. These books are crammed with adventure, perfect for keeping Year Six and more advanced readers engaged.
Step into the supernatural world of Amari and the Night Brothers series. In the quest to find her missing brother, Amari Peters clings to three undeniable truths. First, her beloved older brother Quinton has vanished without a trace. Second, an impenetrable silence surrounds his disappearance, leaving her desperate for answers. Lastly, Quinton's enigmatic occupation holds the key to unravelling the mystery.
An unexpected glimmer of hope emerges when Amari receives a coveted invitation to the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs. Convinced that this is her golden opportunity to locate Quinton, she sets her sights on delving into the secrets that lie within. However, before she can embark on her search, Amari must navigate the bewildering realm of the Bureau—an otherworldly domain where mermaids, aliens, and magicians exist alongside her, and her roommate happens to be a weredragon.
Amari finds herself pitted against fellow trainees who have been well-versed in the supernatural world since childhood. As the trials unfold, each trainee is bestowed with a unique and extraordinary supernatural talent, adding an extra layer of intrigue and competition.
Will Amari rise above the challenges, harness her own extraordinary abilities, and ultimately uncover the truth about her brother's vanishing act? Prepare to be captivated by Amari's enthralling journey through a world where the supernatural reigns supreme.
Step into the enchanting realm of Nevermoor with Morrigan Crow and embark on an extraordinary journey into the captivating world of the Nevermoor series by Jessica Townsend—a remarkable children's series that will transport readers to unimaginable heights. Meet Morrigan Crow, a young girl burdened with a curse.
Born on the ill-fated day of Eventide, she bears the blame for every local misfortune, from tempestuous hailstorms to sudden heart attacks. Tragically, her curse holds a dire fate: Morrigan is destined to meet her demise at the stroke of midnight on her eleventh birthday.
Yet, just as the countdown to her fate begins, a peculiar and extraordinary man named Jupiter North emerges. Pursued by ethereal black-smoke hounds and mysterious horseback hunters, he sweeps Morrigan away, spiriting her into the sanctuary of a hidden, wondrous city known as Nevermoor—a realm brimming with magic and secrets.
Prepare to be spellbound as you join Morrigan on her enthralling adventure, where danger lurks at every turn and the promise of a new destiny beckons amidst the shadows. Discover the wonders that await in the mystical tapestry of Nevermoor.
Immerse yourself in the timeless pages of Judith Kerr's beloved semi-autobiographical masterpiece, Out of the Hitler Time trilogy which vividly portrays a Jewish family's harrowing escape from Germany during the prelude to World War II.
With its enduring appeal, this classic tale has become a must-read for Year 6 students and primary classes delving into the profound history of the Second World War. Step into the shoes of Anna as she navigates a country undergoing a perilous transformation, where even her own father becomes a target. Experience the gripping journey that unfolds in 1933, forever etched in the annals of history.
For an epic and mythological adventure that will captivate children aged 9-10, we highly recommend immersing yourself in the thrilling Percy Jackson book series by the masterful storyteller Rick Riordan. Join Percy Jackson, a modern-day demigod, as he discovers his true identity and embarks on exhilarating quests alongside a vibrant cast of characters from Greek mythology.
Riordan's clever blend of action, humour, and ancient legends creates an irresistible combination that will keep young readers hooked from the very first page. With each instalment, readers will be whisked away to a world where gods, monsters, and epic battles await.
The Percy Jackson series is a must-read for young adventure seekers, as it not only entertains but also introduces them to the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, sparking a lifelong love for ancient tales and the power of imagination. Get all five books in the series plus two fact-filled books about Greek gods and heroes in our Percy Jackson 7 book set by Rick Riordan.
Shop Back to School at Books2Door
Whether your little ones are going back to school in September or it’s their first day through those doors, we have a great range of back-to-school books available. Make sure you check out our back-to-school page for more brilliant books for growing minds.