A collection of colorful children's book covers including Matilda and Holes, appealing to 4th graders.

26 Books for 4th Graders Our Kids Loved Most

Updated June 24, 2022

This big list of the best books for 4th graders compiles parent recommendations for the books that our kids have read (willingly!) and loved. It can be tricky to find chapter books for fourth graders that are complex enough to challenge their growing reading skills, but not so much that they're frustrating or boring.

Let us know about the books your 4th graders have enjoyed by liking and reviewing their favorites, or suggesting something new to add to the list! You'll find more parent recommendations on our lists for 3rd grade and 5th grade boys and girls.

26 Recommendations

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The Penderwicks

A gentle and heartwarming story about four sisters who spend a memorable summer at a charming cottage on a large estate.

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Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

Kelly R said: Told from the perspective of a fourth grade boy frustrated with the antics of his troublemaking little brother. The name alone makes it a must-read book for fourth grade, but this really is the perfect age for enjoying the quick and funny read!

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Because of Winn-Dixie

Kelly R said: A lonely ten-year-old girl finds a dog in the grocery store and has her summer transformed (a great pick for summer reading!). Winn Dixie the dog inspires her to make friends and seek answers to some tough questions about her life. There is a lot of depth in this book for fourth grade kids, with lessons about friendship, acceptance and loss.

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Front Desk

10-year-old protagonist Mia lives with her family in a motel, where she works at the front desk and helps other guests - including immigrants who are living there in hiding. She also dreams of being a writer, even though her parents think she should stick with math. Author Kelly Yang tells a story reminiscent of her own childhood growing up in California after having immigrated from China with her family, and weaves a captivating tale that introduces an immigrant experience in a way that is relatable for children.

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The Fourteenth Goldfish

Kelly R said: This was a quirky and fun read my 4th grade daughter loved. A middle school girl meets a teenage boy who happens to be her grandfather, a scientist who has discovered a fountain of youth substance.

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Hello, Universe

Kelly R said: A fun writing style and interesting characters make this an appealing book for 4th graders - my daughter really enjoyed it. It's told from the perspective of a couple of neighborhood kids whose stories intersect when one of them is trapped in a well with his guinea pig.

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Ways to Make Sunshine

Kelly R said: This story about a girl who makes the best out of tough situations was a favorite of my 4th grade girl, and she's excited to continue the series.

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American Chillers Series

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Origami Yoda Series

Kelly R said: This Star Wars-themed series is set in middle school, with funny and relatable storylines centering around friendship and school. The first book introduces sixth grader Dwight, who dishes out wise advice through a handmade origami finger puppet Yoda. Subsequent books add Darth Paper, Fortune Wookiee, and other clever characters. There are origami tutorials included in each book.

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Childhood of Famous Americans Collection

Shila said: If your children love history, there are many books in this series of narrative biographies to delight their interest! Each book introduces and gives detail to the lives behind some of America's greatest historical figures (Albert Einstein, Walt Disney, JFK, Amelia Earhart, Babe Ruth, Hellen Keller, etc.). The content is intriguing, yet brief and digestible for young readers.