22 Best Books For Ten Year Olds That Your Child Will Love

Discover our enchanting guide to the best books for ten year olds that your child will love.

What do ten-year-olds enjoy reading about? Any list of favorite topics for ten-year-olds will undoubtedly include mysteries, animals, learning about the world, how to make things, and stories where the hero of the story is the same age as they are. This curated list of the best books for ten-year-olds has all of a child’s favorite topics, including some that even your child might not yet have dreamed of.

You’ll want your child to read several of the books on this list because they are filled with adventures and images that will inspire creative thinking, help your child to learn and grow, and offer them another way of experiencing the world in a book’s safe and protected environment. Check out our metaphor examples for kids for a fun-filled activity to keep you smiling!

Here Are The Best Books for Ten Year Olds

1. Hilarious Jokes For 10 Year Old Kids, by Hayden Fox

Laughter is the best medicine for being a 10-year-old kid! This 106-page book is chock full of family-friendly jokes that will keep a smile on your child’s face and laughter in their heart. Kids of this age love to tell jokes and elicit laughter from their audience, so why not fuel the fire and gift your child with this collection of tried and tested jokes as well as lots that are brand new and ready to be tried out on a modern generation? In the pages of Hilarious Jokes For 10 Year Old Kids, pages your child will find knock-knock jokes, puns, tongue-twisters, riddles, and more, all woven together with engaging and silly illustrations.

“Why Can’t You Play Hockey with Pigs? They hog the puck!”

Hayden Fox, Hilarious Jokes For 10 Year-Old Kids

2. You are an Amazing Girl, by Nadia Ross

This is a book of positivity that your ten-year-old child will love. Kids of this age need positive influences to combat the negativity the world may spill on them. It’s motivational and inspiring without being overly sentimental. It is about not hiding your light under a basket and letting your talents shine bright for others to see. You are an Amazing Girl talks about how you are good enough as you are and how other girls of the same age are going through the same things that you are going through. If this book were a person, it would be your ten-year-old daughter’s best friend, always there to support and encourage her, even in the most challenging times.

“This book will introduce you to a group of girls who go through the same things you do every day.”

Nadia Ross, You are an Amazing Girl

3. Mystery In Rocky Mountain National Park, by Aaron Johnson

Mystery In Rocky Mountain National Park is part of a series of books called the National Park Mystery Series. The book is a modern-day equivalent of The Three Investigators books by Alfred Hitchcock, which many parents remember from childhood. The adventures all take place in National Parks, which benefits kids to be more aware of these national treasures. The books in the series are wholesome and fun to read, and this one is no exception. This is the kind of book your child hides under the blanket and reads with a flashlight because they can’t stop turning the pages!

“Then he drew a thin-framed set of spectacles from the breast pocket of his jacket, put them on, and read the dial.”

Aaron Johnson, Mystery In Rocky Mountain National Park

4. Guinness World Records, by Guinness World Records

The Guinness World Records book has been a favorite for generations of kids. Just flipping through the pages is an eye-opening experience, learning about the world’s tallest man or the woman with the longest fingernails in the whole world. Your child will spend many happy hours reading this book and may even be inspired to try setting a few records themselves! How many pennies can they balance on their elbow? How far can they jump? This book entertains in the most innocent way possible; the best fun is that they are all true!

“From the most critically acclaimed and best-selling games to the longest marathons and richest esports stars, we run through the 25 most significant videogame records in our archive, encompassing classics such as Pac-Man and Donkey Kong right up to Minecraft and Fortnite.”

Guinness World Records, Guinness World Records

5. Life Skills for Kids, by Karen Harris

If you’ve ever been frustrated by schools not teaching practical life skills, then you’ll love Life Skills for Kids. Great for both boys and girls, this book teaches simple life skills that will be useful for years. There are sections on cooking simple foods, how to make friends, how to handle emergencies, set goals, make good decisions, and much more. This book’s best part is that none reads like a lesson. Kids can read leisurely and absorb the information without feeling like they’re being lectured.

“If this sounds familiar, you’re on a big boat floating in a big ocean with a lot of other people about your own age. Trust me, I know.”

Karen Harris, Life Skills for Kids

6. Keep Out!: Build Your Own Backyard Clubhouse, by Lee Mothes

Kids love clubhouses and adventures, so they will love Keep Out!: Build Your Own Backyard Clubhouse. The book is a well-illustrated guide for kids to build their own clubhouse. It comes complete with a step-by-step guide of instructions to follow. Not only will your child enjoy making their clubhouse, but they will also get great practice following written directions. The whole family can join in, helping your family to bond over quality time on a project and making lasting memories. That’s a lot for any book to deliver, but this one will exceed your expectations!

“My greatest feeling of accomplishment as a kid occurred after school one day when I sat in a beat-up wicker chair outside our clubhouse.”

Lee Mothes, Keep Out!: Build Your Own Backyard Clubhouse

7. Charlotte’s Web, by E. B. White

Charlotte’s Web has been a favorite of parents and children for generations. It’s a heartwarming tale about friendship, bravery, and the power of love. This award-winning story is about a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a spider named Charlotte. Charlotte saves Wilbur’s life by weaving beautiful words into her webs. The book teaches kids about the importance of selflessness and compassion as Charlotte risks her life to help Wilbur. The writing is so simple yet so powerful. Kids will love the characters and be captivated by the story. It’s a great way to spark conversations about kindness and the beauty of friendship.

“Children almost always hang onto things tighter than their parents think they will.”

E.B. White, Charlotte’s Web

8. Wish, by Barbara O’Connor

Wish is a New York Times bestselling book that tells the story of a girl and her dog. If your child is an animal lover, they will love this book. Every day, the little girl in the book has been making the same wish. But when she is sent to live in the mountains of North Carolina, the chances of her wish ever coming true seem impossible. But there, she meets a little dog who finds a way into her heart. This book will become one of your child’s favorites, so don’t be surprised if your ten-year-old wants to share it with you.

“Everybody thinks my sister is an angel straight down from heaven, but I know better.”

Barbara O’Connor, Wish

9. How to Survive Anything, by Rachel Buccholz

Let’s face it, deep down, your ten-year-old wants to be a superhero. With this book, they’ll learn how to face almost anything. Well, it’s not exactly hard science, but it’s a fun read that will equip your child to not give in to their fears. How to Survive Anything is put out by National Geographic for Kids, so you know the quality of the writing is very high. Between the pages of this fun book, your child will learn what to do if a grizzly bear attacks, how to escape from quicksand, and more. Of course, it’s all tongue-in-cheek, and the book is filled with funny stories and riddles to keep your child entertained.

“Smell that fresh air! On second thought, don’t! Erupting volcanoes emit poisonous carbon dioxide gases, so strap on your breathing mask while you look for shelter.”

Rachel Buccholz, How to Survive Anything

10. Inspirational Sports Stories for Young Readers, by Kurt Taylor

This book is just what you’ve been looking for to give to your sports-enthusiastic child. Inside, it chronicles the lives of some of the most famous sports athletes in the sport’s history. Inspirational Sports Stories for Young Readers talks about all of the difficulties that athletes had in their lives and how those difficulties shaped who they are now and made them stronger. Multiple sports are covered, from American football, baseball, and basketball to gymnastics and surfing. Every young sports fan will be captivated by this book as they learn about some of the most significant athletes from the past and their favorite sports players from the present.

“It is often said sports are one of the greatest ways to learn life lessons.”

Kurt Taylor, Inspirational Sports Stories for Young Readers

11. Where the Red Fern Grows, by Wilson Rawls

This is a fantastic book for the young animal lover in your family. Where the Red Fern Grows is a heart-wrenching and beautifully written tale that will leave a lasting impression on any reader. This timeless classic transports you to the Ozark Mountains, where a young boy named Billy embarks on a journey filled with adventure, friendship, and self-discovery.

The story is a vivid tapestry woven with themes of love, courage, and perseverance. It follows Billy as he trains two dogs to become the best hunting team in the valley, facing countless challenges along the way. The bond between Billy and his dogs is miraculous, and their loyalty and devotion to one another will have you and your son or daughter reaching for tissues.

“If a man’s word isn’t any good, he’s no good himself.”

Wilson Rawls, Where the Red Fern Grows

12. The Borrowers, by Mary Norton

The Borrowers is a captivating and whimsical tale that will whisk you away to a world of imagination and adventure. This charming story introduces us to a family of tiny people who live beneath the floorboards of a house, surviving by “borrowing” objects from the human world. The borrowers in the story are a resourceful and ingenious bunch, and the story is filled with their clever tricks and escapades.

The writing is imbued with a sense of magic and wonder as we follow the borrowers on their adventures and get a glimpse into their tiny world. The characters are delightfully quirky and endearing, each with unique personalities and quirks. The story is heartwarming and exciting, with twists and turns to keep your young reader on the edge of their seat.

“IT WAS Mrs. May who first told me about them.”

Mary Norton, The Borrowers

13. Minecraft, by Sfé R. Monster

Let’s face it; video games are here to stay, at least for now. Of all the choices out there, Minecraft is one of the ones that allow kids to be creative. If you have a young Minecraft fan in your household, why not encourage reading correctly by letting your youngster read about things that interest them? Minecraft books are graphic novels that captivate your video-game-playing daughter or son and encourage them to step away from the screen, if only for an hour or two.

“I’m meeting the gang and I’m already late.”

Sfé R. Monster, Minecraft

14. The Secret Lake, by Karen Inglis

The Secret Lake is part of a series of mystery stories perfect for your ten-year-old. The story follows a young girl and her brother as they become obsessed with finding the answer to a mystery involving a little dog. Throughout the summer break, their attempt to solve the puzzle uncovers a boat hidden behind a grassy mound and a tunnel that leads to a hidden lake. Stella and Tom are transported to their house and its grounds almost a century earlier. They meet allies and foes while exploring the astonishing parallels between the past and the present.

“Come and play in the garden of imagination. Let the seeds of your dreams grow and blossom in distant lands and times forgotten.”

Karen Inglis, The Secret Lake

15. Spectacular Stories For Curious Kids, by Jesse Sullivan

This book will be fascinating for any ten-year-old who loves to read or is curious about the world, as most kids are! Inside Spectacular Stories For Curious Kids, your child will discover stories from all ages of history, from war times to revolutionary times, to renaissance times to the modern day. Your child may even be interested in learning more about history, which benefits everyone. It includes 100 stories that will inspire and intrigue even finicky readers.

“When you think of Napoleon you think of the masterful leader, the military genius with many successful campaigns during the French Revolution.”

Jesse Sullivan, Spectacular Stories For Curious Kids

16. The Chronicles of Narnia, by C.S. Lewis

The Chronicles of Narnia is a sweeping epic that will transport you to a world of imagination, wonder, and adventure. This classic series follows the adventures of four siblings as they journey through the magical land of Narnia, encountering mythical creatures and battling evil forces. The writing is both lyrical and immersive, painting vivid pictures of Narnia’s wondrous world and its creatures. The characters are richly drawn and multidimensional, each with unique personalities and quirks. The themes of friendship, loyalty, and courage are woven throughout the series, making it a story that is entertaining and deeply insightful.

“This is a story about something that happened long ago when your grandfather was a child.”

C.S. Lewis, The Chronicles of Narnia

17. Inspiring Stories for Amazing Boys, by Emily Green

In Inspiring Stories for Amazing Boys, the author sends positivity to your young son. It’s filled with exactly what the title promises; stories of boys who overcome obstacles and challenges. The stories are inspiring and heartwarming and demonstrate courage, strength, and tenacity as an example for boys. The writing style is vibrant and encouraging, suitable for reading aloud or enjoying quiet. The illustrations are attractive and inviting. This book helps young boys accept themselves, including their strengths and weaknesses, to discuss problems with their parents, overcome fears, correctly deal with peer pressure, and develop self-confidence.

“But you must start believing in yourself.”

Emily Green, Inspiring Stories for Amazing Boys

18. The Secret of the Old Clock, by Carolyn Keene

Any book in the Nancy Drew series is excellent for your ten-year-old. The Secret of the Old Clock is the first in the series and a fine place for young readers to begin. In this book, the author tells the tale of a young girl and the search for a missing will. Your youngster will delight in this well-written book that is perfect for ten-year-olds. The vocabulary is manageable yet challenging enough to encourage language growth. After this one, your child’s bookshelves will be filled with the entire series of Nancy Drew mysteries.

“When she reached the child, she saw to her great relief that the little girl was breathing normally and no water had entered her nose or mouth.”

Carolyn Keene, The Secret of the Old Clock

19. Amelia Bedelia Means Business, by Herman Parish

The Amelia Bedelia books have earned a place as a classic series featuring a spunky young girl who will capture your child’s heart and imagination. In Amelia Bedelia Means Business, Amelia finds a way to get half the money for the new bike she wants. Her parents are willing to pay half, but Amelia must find a way to earn money for the rest. The book includes black-and-white pictures that seem just as interesting as a full-color book.

“Amelia Bedelia never meant to lead a pack of dogs on a wild-goose chase”

Herman Parish, Amelia Bedelia Means Business

20. Encyclopedia Brown, Boy Detective, by Donald J. Solo

This book is about a youngster named Encyclopedia Brown, who solves mysteries others can’t figure out. In this first book in the series, Encyclopedia Brown, Boy Detective, Encyclopedia must solve a mystery involving missing roller skates, a Civil War sword, and a trapeze artist’s inheritance. It’s all a jumbled mess until Encyclopedia Brown cracks the case.

The writing style is fun and engaging, with plenty of humor and wit thrown in for good measure. The characters are quirky and endearing, each with their distinct personality. The stories are perfect for young readers but also enjoyable for adults who want to flex their mental muscles a bit.

“Everyone else in Idaville called him Encyclopedia.”

Donald J. Solo, Encyclopedia Brown, Boy Detective

21. Middle School, The Worst Years of My Life, by James Patterson

James Patterson created a range of kids’ books to encourage children to read. His books for youngsters are just as interesting as his books for adults. They are page-turners in every sense of the word. In Middle School, The Worst Years of My Life, a young kid has to somehow get through the perils of middle school while pulling off shenanigans that earn him points with his best friend. This book is a barrel of laughs that will keep your child’s eyes glued to the page.

“Here are some other people I don’t trust as far as I can throw a truckload of pianos.”

James Patterson, Middle School, The Worst Years of My Life

22. A Wrinkle in Time, by Madeline L’Engle

A Wrinkle in Time is a timeless classic that will take your youngster on a thrilling journey through time and space. This story follows the adventures of Meg Murry, a young girl with a quick mind and a fierce determination, as she sets out to save her father from the clutches of a sinister force. With her brother Charles Wallace and a friend named Calvin, Meg must travel through time and space to find her father and save the universe from darkness.

The writing in this book is pure magic, with a poetic style that will transport your child to another world, which is what all good books do. The language is rich and vivid, with descriptions that paint pictures in mind. Looking for more? Check out the best Roger Hargreaves books for kids!

“In her attic bedroom Margaret Murry, wrapped in an old patchwork quilt, sat on the foot of her bed and watched the trees tossing in the frenzied lashing of the wind.”

Madeline L’Engle, A Wrinkle in Time