Adventure
The Phantom Tollbooth – A clever, funny adventure filled with wordplay and imagination.
Hatchet – A survival classic that teaches resilience and problem-solving.
Holes – Mystery, humor, and unforgettable characters.
My Side of the Mountain – A boy learns to survive alone in the wilderness.
Mystery
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library – Fast-paced puzzles and library adventures.
The Boxcar Children – Timeless mysteries perfect for independent readers.
Encyclopedia Brown – Short mysteries that encourage critical thinking.
Fantasy
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – A classic fantasy with memorable characters.
The BFG – Funny and imaginative.
Dragon Masters – Great for readers transitioning into chapter books.
The Mouse and the Motorcycle – A fun fantasy adventure.
Animal Stories
The Wild Robot – An engaging story about survival and kindness.
The One and Only Ivan – Heartwarming and beautifully written.
Because of Winn-Dixie – Friendship, family, and community.
Humor
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing – A hilarious classic about family life.
Sideways Stories from Wayside School – Silly and wildly entertaining.
The Chocolate Touch – A humorous twist on the King Midas tale.
Historical Fiction
Sarah, Plain and Tall – A touching frontier story.
Little House in the Big Woods – Pioneer life through a child’s perspective.
Number the Stars – A moving World War II story appropriate for many advanced fourth-grade readers.
For Readers Who Like a Challenge
Wonder
The Hobbit (with family support if needed)
A Wrinkle in Time