When kids are ready to move past picture books, these chapter book series will keep them engaged. Encourage them to take small reading sessions like they would with a single title so they aren’t overwhelmed.
Clementine’s naughty attitude and silly antics will appeal to girls. These books are at a slightly higher reading level than Junie B. Jones, but more accessible to new readers.
Little Bear
In this classic I Can Read book, children meet Little Bear and his parents. Little Bear’s mother is always ready to give her son exactly what he needs to play, explore and dream.
Maurice Sendak’s detailed drawings of the animals in this story show how a child can learn to build meaning about characters based on their actions, expressions and responses. This is an important skill that will be necessary as readers move on to the more complicated tasks of inference.
Throughout this story, children will see that Little Bear’s father is willing to play with his son and encourages him to use his imagination. This is a great opportunity to discuss the importance of listening to family members and respecting their opinion. Also, children will be able to connect with the idea that family is more than just people; it includes pets and other animals.
Alvin Ho
A second grader’s reading skills are growing and he/she is ready to move from easy readers into Chapter books for 2nd graders. Luckily, there are many great choices that keep kids engaged and on a reading adventure!
This series follows the lovable Alvin Ho, an Asian American second grader who is afraid of everything. His phobias include a 16-hour plane ride, kimchi and wasabi, kung fu lessons, and acupuncture treatments. He’s also terrified of talking in school, so he sits next to Flea who reminds him of a pirate.
Fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid will love this funny series that takes the character’s anxiety to a whole new level. Perfect for reluctant readers!
Nate the Great
Children will fall in love with Nate the Great, a kid who is just so smart. This fun chapter book series has kids solving mysteries with their smart little friend.
This popular series takes kids on a trip through a tree house, to a desert, and even back in time to meet dinosaurs! The simple language and illustrations make these books approachable for second graders.
This spooky chapter book series is perfect for 2nd graders who love a good mystery. Stanley Lambchop, a flat kid who is half an inch thick, has amazing and funny adventures around the world. This fun and enchanting book series is a must-have for your child. This series also helps teach children to use logical progression to solve problems.
Gooney Bird Greene
Gooney Bird Greene comes to life in this series of chapter books that are ideal for 2nd graders. Her vivacious spirit is a great way to get kids excited about reading.
This book teaches about the importance of helping others. The story also highlights the value of true friendships.
The first book in this series introduces readers to Gooney Bird, a new second grader in Mrs. Pidgeon’s class. She is unique, self-confident, and has many stories to tell about her adventurous past.
This series features Judy Moody’s brother, Stink, who uses his imagined superpowers to solve problems. The funny stories and simple word choice make this series an excellent stepping stone for kids who are ready to begin reading chapter books. This book demonstrates the importance of helping friends and showing compassion.
Stink
Fans of the outspoken Judy Moody will enjoy her younger brother Stink in this funny, homespun series. Kids can relate to the characters’ energy, impulsivity, and concern for others, as well as their teasing and occasional hurt feelings. Stink’s arachnophobia also makes for a fun read that helps kids explore their own fears.
The books feature cool trivia about science and animals, as well as U.S. Presidents and other school subjects. Families can use the books to discuss how small kindnesses, such as a supportive comment or an honest apology, can make a big difference.
Princess Lina lives in an enchanted palace, but she longs for a nonmagical life and wants to be just like everybody else. This charming, imaginative book teaches valuable lessons about friendship, self-confidence, and being kind.