Choose The 25 Best Chapter Books For 1st Graders And Help Your Students Grow As Readers

Whether you’re a 1st grade teacher or a parent of a 1st grader, you may be looking for the best chapter books for 1st graders. First grade is such an important year for students to improve on their reading skills.

While many 1st graders are still working on their letter sounds, sight words, and other basic reading skills, some are ready to start reading beginning chapter books.

If your child or students’ reading has really taken off recently, and you’re ready to get them reading something a bit more challenging, knowing where to start can be tricky.

Take a look at my list of books for 1st graders

I wanted to put this article together to offer some suggestions for parents and teachers who are having a difficult time choosing the right chapter books for their students. A lot of these on the list were some of my favorites when I taught first grade, and I’ve also included some newer ones that I’ve read glowing reviews for.

Editors’ Choice of the Best Picks

If you are not into reading long articles and are looking for a chapter book for your particular needs, here are my quick suggestions for you:

  1. Junie B. Jones Complete First Grade Collection Box Set — best for readers who are fond of funny stories.
  2. The Smart Cookie — best for those students who need pictures while reading.
  3. Uni the Unicorn: Uni’s First Sleepover — best for the begginers.

In all, I researched about 50 different chapter books and series for 1st graders. Ultimately, I selected my top 25 picks. Not everything could make the cut, so while I like The Nocturnals:

  1. The Mysterious Abductions
  2. The Secret Lake
  3. The Princess and the Dragon

I didn’t think they were quite as good as my top picks below.

Continue reading, and I’ll share:

My List of 25 Best Chapter Books for 1st Grade
Junie B. Jones Complete First Grade Collection Box Set

Best for strong readers looking for a funny series

Amazon →

Scholastic →

unie B. Jones First Grader

Best for students who are entering 1st grade or are worried about needing glasses

Amazon →
Princess Posey and the First Grade Ballet3. Princess Posey and the First Grade Ballet →

Best for Valentine’s Day reading activities and discussions

Amazon →
Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 1-4

Best fo readers looking for action and adventure

Amazon →

Scholastic →

Best for readers who are ready to take on a longer chapter book
Amazon →

Scholastic →

Narwhal and Jelly Box Set6. Narwhal and Jelly Box Set →

Best for students who may be reluctant to pick up a chapter book

Amazon →
Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 5-8
Best forstudents who like fantasy stories
Amazon →

Scholastic →

I Broke My Butt!
Best for 1st graders looking for a good laugh
Amazon →
Henry and Mudge Ready-to-Read Value Pack

Best for students just getting into chapter books

Amazon →
The Ramona Collection, Volume 1
Best for advanced 1st grade readers.
Amazon →
My Weird School 21-Book Box

Best for those looking to read something funny and engaging

Amazon →
Charlotte's Web12. Charlotte’s Web →

Best for 1st graders who enjoy animals and are reading at a higher level

Amazon →

Scholastic →

Diary of a Pug: Pug Blasts Off13. Diary of a Pug: Pug Blasts Off →

Best for students who still need more picture support when reading

Amazon →

Scholastic →

Dragon Masters: Rise of the Earth Dragon
Best for new 1st grade readers who need to improve their reading stamina
Amazon →

Scholastic →

The Smart Cookie15. The Smart Cookie →

Best for 1st graders who still need more picture support for a text

Amazon →

Scholastic →

Nate the Great16. Nate the Great →

Best for 1st graders who are just ready to begin reading chapter books

Amazon →
Summer Pony17. Summer Pony →

Best for horse-loving 1st graders ready to start reading chapter books

Amazon →
The Complete Adventures of the Borrowers18. The Complete Adventures of the Borrowers →

Best for advanced 1st graders looking for more challenging chapter books

Amazon →
Narwhal's School of Awesomeness19. Narwhal’s School of Awesomeness →

Best for 1st graders who need more picture support and many not be fully ready for a formal chapter book

Amazon →
The Berenstain Bears' Big Book of Science and Nature20. The Berenstain Bears’ Big Book of Science and Nature →

Best for science-loving 1st graders

Amazon →
Amelia Bedelia Chapter Book Box Set21. Amelia Bedelia Chapter Book Box Set →

Best for students and families who love the original Amelia Bedelia series and are interested in reading about her life as a child

Amazon →

Scholastic →

Uni the Unicorn: Uni's First Sleepover22. Uni the Unicorn: Uni’s First Sleepover→

Best for students who are just starting to get into chapter books

Amazon →
Aaron Slater, Illustrator23. Aaron Slater, Illustrator→

Best for 1st graders who have struggled with reading or writing in the past and need a positive role model

Amazon →
Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows24. Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows→

Best for Higher readers who love adventure, magic, and mystery

Amazon →
Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 13-1625. Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 13-16→

Best for 1st graders looking to learn more about historical times

Amazon →

Scholastic →

How to Choose Chapter Books for 1st Graders

As you’re looking for the best  books for elementary students, there are a few different things you’ll want to consider. Read through the next few sections to identify the most important criteria to help you choose the best early chapter books for your 1st graders.

The Features to Look for While Choosing a Chapter Book
1. Font SizeOne of the most important things to look for when choosing chapter books for early readers is the text size. At this age, most students are still used to reading books with large, and well-spaced-out words. So, you’ll want to try to find chapter books that mimic this, otherwise the amount of text on each page may be too much for beginning readers to process.
2. IllustrationsNext, look at the illustrations in each book. Again, 1st graders are used to reading books with pictures on each page. While, you may not find this with chapter books, it may be easier for students to adjust when there is at least a picture every few pages.

In addition to considering the frequency of the illustrations, consider whether they are in color or black and white. While you shouldn’t choose books only because they are color illustrations, they may be more engaging for younger readers. Additionally, color illustrations are often a clue that the book is designed for younger readers.

3. Book Length

You will also want to consider the overall length of each story. Readers who are new to chapter books may not have the sustained attention to read through a very long book just yet. Choosing something a bit shorter that they can read over a few settings may be a better way to start.
4. Age of the Main CharacterFinally, look at the age or grade-level of the main character. Books are often written with characters around the same age as their intended audience. So, if the character is around a first-grade level, then it may be a good fit for your students.

And now let’s move on to a review of the best chapter books for first graders.

25 Best Chapter Books for 1st Graders

Ok, here are my picks for the best books. You may even be able to find read-alouds or teasers for some of these books to share on your interactive whiteboard to get students excited to read them.

1. Junie B. Jones Complete First Grade Collection Box Set

As one of the best chapter book sets for 1st graders, this box set includes all 11 of the Junie B. Jones first grade chapter books by Barbara Park. Students will love reading about and making connections with the adventures of 1st grader Junie B. Jones.

Junie B. Jones Complete First Grade Collection Box Set

Reading Age: Ages 5-9

Lexile Measure: 340-560

Print Length: Approximately 144 pages

Pros

  • The set includes 11 books.
  • Collectible paper dolls also come with the set.
  • Students will enjoy reading these funny stories.

Cons

  • These books may be a bit long for students new to reading chapter books.
  • The reading level may also be too high for some 1st graders.

Best for : 1st graders who have already read some chapter books and want to read something humorous.

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2. Junie B. Jones First Grader (at Last!)

This engaging chapter book follows Junie B. Jones as she begins her year as a 1st grader. Students will get to read about her adventures with her new teacher, new friends, and some other surprises along the way.

 Junie B. Jones First Grader

Reading Age: Ages 5-9

Lexile Measure: 490

Print Length: 96 pages

Pros

  • Engaging topic for 1st graders reading about another 1st grade student.
  • Barbara Park incorporates humor into her writing.
  • Not too long for beginning readers.

Cons

  • This is just a single book, not the full set of 1st grade Junie B. Jones stories.
  • Depending on the reading level of your 1st grader, this text may be a bit complex.

Best for : strong 1st grade readers who may be concerned about getting glasses.

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3. Princess Posey and the First Grade Ballet

In this 9th book in the Princess Posey series, Posey is getting ready for Valentine’s Day. She must find a way to help a friend that doesn’t have any of her own Valentines to share with others.

Princess Posey and the First Grade Ballet

Reading Age: Ages 5-8

Lexile Measure: 550

Print Length: 96 pages

Pros

  • The book is about an interesting subject for 1st graders.
  • There are some pictures to support the text.
  • Helps teach students to help their peers.

Cons

  • With the theme of Valentine’s Day, this may not be the best choice for other times during the year.
  • This is the 9th book in the series, so you may want to introduce your students to other Princess Posey books first.

Best for : 1st graders looking for a feel-good Valentine’s Day story.

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4. Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 1-4

If you aren’t familiar with The Magic Tree House series, you’re in for a real treat. This set is a must-buy when you’re looking for the best chapter books for kids. It includes the first four books in the series that follow Jack and Annie as they travel to far away lands and times using their magical tree house.

Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 1-4

Reading Age: Ages 6-9

Lexile Measure: 490-510

Print Length: 65 to 75 pages

Pros

  • Students are introduced to history and science through the book’s topics.
  • The characters, Jack and Annie, are relatable.
  • The series has been popular for over 25 years.

Cons

  • Your students may get hooked and insist you purchase the rest of the series.
  • The pictures are only in black and white.

Best for : 1st graders seeking adventurous stories to enjoy.

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5. The Flat Stanley Collection Box Set

This creative series follows Flat Stanley — a boy who was flattened when his bulletin board fell on him. In the set of four books, children will learn more about Stanley and read about his adventures with becoming invisible, catching bank robbers, traveling to space, and more.

The Flat Stanley Collection Box Set

Reading Age: Ages 6-10

Lexile Measure: 480-520

Print Length: About 100-130 pages

Pros

  • Engaging storyline to encourage reluctant readers to read.
  • Stories with Flat Stanley lends itself well to other lesson ideas.
  • Large, easy-to-read print.

Cons

  • Longer length than some other beginning chapter books.
  • Text may be too challenging for some 1st grade readers.

Best for : 1st graders who have already read through some chapter books and are looking for a bit of a challenge.

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6. Narwhal and Jelly Box Set

This box set of three Narwhal and Jelly books introduces students to the fun and friendly characters as they go through various adventures under the sea. The books are laid out like a graphic novel, with multiple images and text boxes on each page.

Narwhal and Jelly Box Set

Reading Age: Ages 6-9

Lexile Measure: 490-510

Print Length: About 65 pages

Pros

  • Graphic novel format may be more engaging for some readers.
  • Humorous stories that students will enjoy.
  • A bonus poster is included with the set.

Cons

  • These aren’t a true chapter book format if you are looking to introduce students to chapters and longer pages of text.
  • Not too much of a real storyline to follow.

Best for : 1st graders who aren’t quite ready to handle the textual demands of a chapter book.

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7. Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 5-8

These four books follow next in The Magic Tree House series I mentioned above. Readers can continue following Jack and Annie’s adventures as they visit the Amazon, Moon, and other far-away places.

Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 5-8

Reading Age: Ages 6-9

Lexile Measure: 490-520

Print Length: 65 to 75 pages

Pros

  • Four books are included in the set.
  • Each book is short and appropriate for young readers.
  • The topics are interesting for children and can help them learn about historical events.

Cons

  • The storyline may seem a bit repetitive after multiple books have been read.
  • There are a few grammatical errors throughout the text.

Best for: 1st graders who have read and enjoyed the first four books in the Magic Tree House series.

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8. I Broke My Butt!

This is the sequel to the popular “I Need a New Butt!” story. In this picture book, students will see what happens when the character glues a serving tray to his butt by accident.

I Broke My Butt!

Reading Age: Ages 3-7

Lexile Measure: 490

Print Length: 32 pages

Pros

  • Lots of colorful illustrations.
  • Humorous story to keep children laughing and reading.
  • Fewer words than chapter books for more reluctant readers.

Cons

  • This is technically a chapter book.
  • Bit more of a risqué topic that you may want to get parental approval to read with students.

Best for : Students looking for something light and funny to read.

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9. Henry and Mudge Ready-to-Read Value Pack

If you’re looking for the best books for the begginers, look no further than this set of six Henry and Mudge books. These stories center around Henry and Mudge, his large English Mastiff dog.

Henry and Mudge Ready-to-Read Value Pack

Reading Age: Ages 4-7

Lexile Measure: 400-540

Print Length: About 40 pages

Pros

  • Includes colorful illustrations
  • Text is large, easy to read, and well-spaced out.
  • Good for students who like dogs.

Cons

  • Books may be too short for more advanced readers.
  • No female main character.

Best for : 1st graders needing a shorter chapter book to get them started.

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10. The Ramona Collection, Volume 1

Beverly Cleary’s Ramona Quimby series is a true classic that has withstood the test of time. Your students will enjoy reading about Ramona’s antics and mishaps in this set of four paperback chapter books.

The Ramona Collection, Volume 1

Reading Age: Ages 8-12

Lexile Measure: 780-850

Print Length: About 200 pages

Pros

  • The stories are engaging and include interesting problems for Ramona to solve.
  • This may be a good option for 1st graders who are more advanced readers and ready for a challenge.
  • Students can relate to how Ramona feels in the stories.

Cons

  • The reading level is much higher and may be too difficult for many 1st grader readers.
  • Each book is also about 200 pages, a good deal longer than many other 1st grade chapter books.

Best for : Students reading at a higher level who are ready for a challenge.

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11. My Weird School 21-Book Box

This set of 21 books is sure to have your students laughing hysterically. The series follows student AJ and his friends and takes place at Ella Mentry School where the principals and teachers seem to have gone crazy.

My Weird School 21-Book Box

Reading Age: Ages 6-10

Lexile Measure: 540-700

Print Length: About 120 pages

Pros

  • With 21 different stories, students can continue reading if they enjoy this series.
  • Since the stories are set at a school, students will be able to relate to them.
  • Each book in the set is reasonably priced when you consider that it includes 21 titles.

Cons

  • Depending on the reading level of your students, some of these books may be a bit challenging.
  • There is some mild language in the books (along the lines of “stupid”) that some parents may not want their kids reading.

Best for: Students who like humorous stories.

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12. Charlotte’s Web

Another classic that would be perfect for 1st graders ready to read is Charlotte’s Web. This heartwarming tale follows Wilbur the pig, Charlotte the spider, and the other farm animals as they learn about life and friendship.

Charlotte's Web

Reading Age: Ages 8-12

Lexile Measure: 680

Print Length: 192

Pros

  • Classic story that can help students learn about friendship.
  • Engaging story with relatable characters.
  • Includes illustrations throughout to offer some support for the text.

Cons

  • Longer than some 1st graders may be ready for.
  • More sensitive students may not be ready to deal with some of the concepts presented by the book.

Best for : Higher level readers looking for an inspiring story about animals and friendship.

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13. Diary of a Pug: Pug Blasts Off

Pug Blasts Off is the first book in the Diary of the Pug series that follows Bub, formally known as Baron von Bubbles. In the book, Bub has to face the challenge presented by Nutz the squirrel when he causes her to accidentally ruin his owner’s special project.

Diary of a Pug: Pug Blasts Off

Reading Age: Ages 5-8

Lexile Measure: 550

Print Length: 80

Pros

  • The book has illustrations on every page.
  • The content is designed to be interesting to 1st graders.
  • The text is easier to read than many other chapter books.

Cons

  • This only includes the first book in the series; you’ll have to order the other seven separately.
  • Not formatted like a traditional chapter book.

Best for : 1st graders who will benefit from reading a chapter book with illustrations on every page.

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14. Dragon Masters: Rise of the Earth Dragon

This story, the first in a 22-book series, follows Drake, an 8-year-old boy who is taken from his home and trained to be a Dragon Master. During his training, he must learn about training his dragon and discovering his special powers.

 Dragon Masters: Rise of the Earth Dragon

Reading Age: Ages 6-8

Lexile Measure: 510

Print Length: 96 pages

Pros

  • Text is easy to read for new readers.
  • Can help improve a young reader’s stamina and boost their confidence.
  • Illustrations are included on every page to offer support for the text.

Cons

  • Bit more expensive price per book than purchasing some of the box sets.
  • No female lead character.

Best for : Students who need picture support but are otherwise ready to begin reading chapter books.

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15. The Smart Cookie

This picture book is designed to help empower students and help them understand that you don’t always have to get everything right. The book is about a cookie who learns that she doesn’t have to compare herself to the rolls and cupcakes in the bakery because she is unique in her own way.

The Smart Cookie

Reading Age: Ages 4-8

Lexile Measure: 440

Print Length: 40 pages

Pros

  • Lots of picture support for 1st graders.
  • Easy to read for many students who may not quite be ready for the demands of some more challenging chapter books.
  • Teaches an empowering lesson.

Cons

  • This is the fifth book in the series, so you may want to have your students start with book 1 first.
  • This is a picture book, not a true chapter book.

Best for: Students who may not quite be ready for a longer chapter book.

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16. Nate the Great

Get your students into the Nate the Great series with this introductory book. They will read about Nate the Great, a detective, who has to help his friend Annie find her lost picture.

Nate the Great

Reading Age: Ages 5-7

Lexile Measure: 340

Print Length: 80 pages

Pros

  • Easy to read for younger readers.
  • Includes illustrations to support the text.
  • Entertaining and engaging.

Cons

  • The story may seem a bit predictable.
  • This is only the first book of the series, so you’ll have to make a separate purchase to get the rest of the series if your students really enjoy it.

Best for : Students who are ready for chapter books, but not ready for more complex texts.

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17. Summer Pony

This story is about a girl name Ginny who has always wanted a horse. However, when her dreams finally come true, and she gets a pony for the summer, it isn’t exactly what she was envisioning.

Summer Pony

Reading Age: Ages 5-9

Lexile Measure: 490

Print Length: 144 pages

Pros

  • Lower Lexile level than some of the other books on this list to support beginning readers.
  • The story teaches a good lesson.
  • Engaging topic for students who like horses.

Cons

  • This is an abridged and modified version of the original story.
  • No male main character.

Best for : Students who are interested in horse and want to read books about them.

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18. The Complete Adventures of the Borrowers

Take a trip into the world of the Borrowers, a family of very small people who live under a family’s home. The borrowers must venture out into the larger home to find the things that they need to survive, but there are some adventures and mishaps along the way.

The Complete Adventures of the Borrowers

Reading Age: Ages 7-10

Lexile Measure: 780

Print Length: About 160 pages

Pros

  • Unique stories that will keep students entertained.
  • Set includes five different chapter books.
  • This is a best-selling set that has been popular for many years.

Cons

  • These books are longer than many other beginning chapter books.
  • Their higher Lexile level may make them too difficult for many 1st graders.

Best for : 1st graders who are reading above grade-level and ready for more complex material.

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19. Narwhal’s School of Awesomeness

This is the 6th book in the Narwhal and Jelly series that tells the story of how Narwhal and Jelly became substitute teachers at school. During their time as substitute teachers, Narwhal and Jelly teach various lessons include Wafflematics, a science scavenger hunt, and more.

Narwhal's School of Awesomeness

Reading Age: Ages 6-9

Lexile Measure: 120

Print Length: 88 pages

Pros

  • Lots of pictures on each page.
  • Engaging characters that kids love.
  • Part of a fun series.

Cons

  • Not a true chapter book; more of a graphic novel.
  • This is book 6 in the series, so you may want your students to read the first 5 books first.

Best for: Students who are looking for something fun and exciting to read.

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20. The Berenstain Bears’ Big Book of Science and Nature

Everyone loves the Berenstain Bears, and in this treasure, students can learn more about various scientific concepts. The collection includes an almanac, nature guide, story about the science fair, and more.

The Berenstain Bears' Big Book of Science and Nature

Reading Age: Ages 3-6

Lexile Measure: Not available

Print Length: 192 pages

Pros

  • The Berenstain Bears stories are classics that are loved by many.
  • With Brother and Sister Bear, there are both male and female main characters in the story.
  • Students can learn about the weather, plants, animals, machines, and more in this collection.

Cons

  • The Lexile level of this book is not clear, so you may need to experiment to see if it is a good fit for your students.
  • This isn’t technically a chapter book, but rather a collection of three different stories and guides.

Best for : 1st graders looking to build on their scientific knowledge through reading.

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21. Amelia Bedelia Chapter Book Box Set

This set of chapter books stars young Amelia Bedelia and her literal interpretations of daily interactions and conversations. The first 10 books of the series are included in this set, offering plenty of material for budding readers.

Amelia Bedelia Chapter Book Box Set

Reading Age: Ages 6-9

Lexile Measure: 580-710

Print Length: About 160 pages

Pros

  • Amelia Bedelia is a fun and relatable character for 1st graders.
  • There are 10 books in this set to keep children reading.
  • This is a New York Times best-selling series.

Cons

  • The books are on the longer side and may be too long for those new to chapter books.
  • There is not a male main character that may be easier for boys to connect with.

Best for : 1st graders who are looking for challenging, yet funny, chapter books to read.

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22. Uni the Unicorn: Uni’s First Sleepover

This Step 2 reader is about Uni the Unicorn who is going to have her first sleepover. She is the only one in the group who hasn’t been to a sleepover before, and has some trouble keeping up with all the fun the other unicorns are having.

Uni the Unicorn: Uni's First Sleepover

Reading Age: Ages 5-7

Lexile Measure: 440

Print Length: 32 pages

Pros

  • Features a topic of interest (unicorns) for many 1st graders.
  • Designed to be easy to read with basic vocabulary and shorter stories.
  • Can help foster independence in younger readers.

Cons

  • Just one single book, not a set like many of the other items on this list.
  • With the more basic vocabulary, this book may not challenge higher readers as much.

Best for : 1st graders who still need some support, but are looking to begin reading chapter books.

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23. Aaron Slater, Illustrator

This is the story of a boy named Aaron Slater who dream of being a writer due to his love of stories. However, when he struggles to get anything written for an assignment, Aaron fears his dream is unattainable—until he realizes that there are other ways to tell a story.

Aaron Slater, Illustrator

Reading Age: Ages 4-8

Lexile Measure: Not available

Print Length: 40 pages

Pros

  • Can help empower children to find their value in ways that are outside of the norm.
  • Includes lots of bright and colorful illustrations on every page.
  • Students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities may be able to connect with the main character.

Cons

  • This is a picture book, not a chapter book.
  • The Lexile measure isn’t available, so you may need to try it with your students to see if it is a good fit.

Best for : Students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities who need to feel empowered by connecting to a strong main character.

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24. Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows

If you’re looking for some favorite chapter books for new readers, definitely consider the Zoey and Sassafras series. In this story, the first of the series, Zoey must learn how to help a sick baby dragon before it is too late.

 Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows

Reading Age: Ages 4-8

Lexile Measure: 640

Print Length: 96 pages

Pros

  • The books in this series expose students to creative ways of solving problems and teach them to be flexible thinkers.
  • They are relatively short stories.
  • There are a fair number of illustrations throughout the text.

Cons

  • The Lexile level is a bit high for many 1st grade readers.
  • This is only book 1 of 9; you’ll have to make additional purchases to collect the whole series.

Best for : Students looking for a challenging and adventurous new series to read.

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25. Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 13-16

This set includes four more Magic Tree House books (books 13-16) that your students are certain to enjoy. 1st graders can continue following Jack and Annie’s adventures in Pompei, Imperial China, Ireland, and Greece as they root for them to solve each mystery.

Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 13-16

Reading Age: Ages 6-9

Lexile Measure: 380-570

Print Length: 65 to 75 pages

Pros

  • Students will be entertained and on the edge of their seats reading to see what happens to Jack and Annie.
  • Short length to help new readers make it through the whole book.
  • Male and female lead characters.

Cons

  • Thinner paper.
  • Some of the content may be scary for more sensitive 1st graders.

Best for : Students looking to continue the Magic Tree House series.

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You May Also Need

As you finish ordering chapter books for your students, consider adding some of these helpful tools. They will make the reading process more convenient.

1. Magnetic Bookmarks for Kids

Help 1st graders save their spot in a chapter book with these cute bookmarks. The set of 24 bookmarks features different animals designs that will help keep young learners excited about learning. Plus, with the magnetic design, they’ll stay in place.

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2. Sling Bookshelf Organizer

Keep all of the new chapter books you’re adding to your library organized and easy to find with this sling bookshelf organizer. With four different layers to hold and display books and 2 large bins, the shelf really holds a lot.

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3. Book Stand

Book Stand

Using this bookstand can help students maintain a better posture when reading a book. The height and angle are both adjustable to help you find a comfortable position for your 1st graders.

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FAQs

If you still have questions you can ask them in the comments, but here are a couple of the most frequently asked questions.

[WPSM_AC id=3217]

How to Instill in your Students a Love of Reading

Reading is such an important skill for our first-graders to master. However, learning the mechanics of reading is just one piece of building a generation of future readers.

Do you enjoy reading?

Students must also develop a long of reading. We want to work on teaching our students how to read, but we must also work to help them love to read.

Here are a few tips to help you achieve this goal:

  1. Help students see how much you love reading.
  2. Frame reading as a positive part of the day.
  3. Help kids enjoy reading by adding different voices for the characters, completing fun follow-ups or performing books through readers theaters. You can even record the student’s plays and let them watch themselves reading.
  4. Provide students with opportunities to choose free-choice books from your classroom library.
  5. Stock your library with books on different topics and on various levels.
  6. Allow students to show their understanding of reading by making their own illustrations to go with a story. Students can share their illustrations with the class using the document camera.
  7. Focus on what each child does well first, before addressing any areas where they need to improve.

You can use this video to help your students develop a love for reading and make reading a habit.

What do you think? Are you ready to instill a love of learning in each one of your students?

Useful Resources

Final Thoughts

1st grade is such a fun grade to teach. Students are excited and ready to learn. One of the most important parts of your job as a 1st grade teacher is to get your students excited to read and help them improve as readers. I sincerely hope that my recommendations for the best books will help you achieve this goal!

    • “Chapter books” are a step up from picture books and beginning reading books, which are vividly illustrated for beginning readers. Chapter books are mostly prose. A long story is told that is broken up into smaller chunks – chapters.
      Such books are usually intended for children from age seven to ten to eleven.

      Reply

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