“You can find magic wherever you look.  Sit back and relax all you need is a book!” – Dr. Seuss

How many books did you read this year? If you’re still wondering what to read next, here’s a list of some of the best books for kids between 8-10 years that we recommend.

1. Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

A unique graphic novel that is sure to pique your interest. New York Times Bestseller and Newbery Honor Award winner, this book is about a beautiful tale of friendship.

Twelve-year-old Astrid signs up for roller derby assuming her best friend Nicole will too. But Nicole chooses to sign up for dance camp with a new friend. Left without her BFF for the first time ever, Astrid now has to face junior high all by herself. A story of courage, strength, and overcoming fears – this is highly relatable for all children, and that it comes beautifully illustrated like a comic book is an added bonus. 

2. One and only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

This book portrays a beautiful story of how a Gorilla reclaims his freedom. It’s the story of Ivan, a gorilla, who lived in a cage at a mall. It moves through his life and how he comes to understand the meaning of freedom after he encounters a baby elephant brought to the same mall. This moving tale is sure to teach the kids about compassion, empathy, and hope.

3. The longest storm by Dan Yaccarino

This one is a heartening story of a family stuck in a house together. This book has been featured in various must-read lists and has also been listed in the New York Public Library 2021 Best Books for Kids selection. It is a story of a father and his kids stuck inside a hose as a storm takes over their city.

While stuck together in the house indefinitely, the family together learns how to overcome conflict and connects at a deep level. With everyone having experienced some semblance to this situation given the pandemic, this book is going to be a relatable read. 

4. Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster by Jonathan Auxier

A poignant tale of a young girl set in the Victorian London era. This is the story of a time when young, orphan boys were used as chimney sweeps. In such a time, 11-year-old Nan Sparrow, a girl gets to be a chimney sweep because she is an exceptional climber. It’s about how a little girl beats all odds to survive and come out stronger. This book is yet another gem by Jonathan Auxier, a New York Times bestselling and critically-acclaimed author.

5.The Curious case of Nandikote Nawab by Tino De Sa

This is a thriller, set in the backdrop of the Kargil war. A captivating mystery novella, this book follows The Nawab of Nandikote – a fictional town. The Nawab is visiting Banpuri, a mofussil railway town in central India, in order to finalise the sale of some of his lands. At the same place, Mike and Theeq are holidaying with their friends Nik, Tara, and Zee. Suddenly strange things start happening. And all the kids get caught up in it. Intriguing much?

How many of these have you already read? Also, if you like to write book reviews, you can always reach out to us!

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