Year 6 reading list – here is our list of recommended titles compiled by professional teachers and librarians. Are you looking for a storybook for the school, the library, or your child’s collection, or are you putting together a class reading list or curriculum spine of year 6 novels to encourage your students to read more? The following list covers 40+ titles for students aged 10-11 in primary school KS2 that are appropriate for independent reading, partnered reading, class teaching, and book clubs. These age-appropriate reading-for-pleasure selections for UKS2 classes have all received great feedback from children, librarians and teachers and include a variety of fiction and nonfiction books for all ability ranges and interests. The books in this list are reviewed termly and include middle-grade novels and stories by Jamila Gavin, Onjali Rauf, Jasbinder Bilan, David Almond, Lara Williamson, JRR Tolkien, Michelle Magorian, Maz Evans, Zizou Corder, Nina Bawden and more.
Books for Year 6 – our recommendations
Resist by Tom Palmer
Set in the village of Velp the Netherlands during the WW2 Nazi occupation, ‘Resist’ follows teenage Edda as she feels compelled to help the resistance in the face of oppressive control, arrests and starvation. Based on the experiences of Audrey Hepburn, this is a thought-provoking read, and an ideal text to discuss with Year 6 classes studying WW2, the Holocaust and Anne Frank. Full of warmth, empathy, emotion and determination, Resist is a fast-moving and gripping page-turner that will inspire upper KS2 readers to read more historical fiction.
Historical
Rumaysa Ever After by Radiya Hafiza
This enchanting novel-length fairy tale draws on traditional elements to spin an unforgettable and richly woven story of magic, danger, and adventure. While Rumaysa searches for her long-lost parents, a carriage appears to take her to see the Queen of Bishnara. But all is not as it seems, and winged beasts and witches await. Split into three parts with beautiful illustrations and 17 short chapters overall, this is a terrific book for children in Year 6 to read aloud and discuss over the course of 8 or 9 weeks.
Fairy tale
Xanthe & the Ruby Crown by Jasbinder Bilan
Xanthe loves spending time with her grandmother in her cityscape paradise rooftop garden. But as she begins to lose her memory, Xanthe discovers a way to put together her grandmother’s remarkable life with the help of an enigmatic cat. This compelling novel spans continents and cultures to examine themes of home, family, and being a refugee. Highly recommended. Read our full review.
Family | Refugees
The Final Year by Matt Goodfellow and Joe Todd-Stanton
The end of Year 5 through to the end of primary school is told through fragments of life in this unique verse story. Accessible, powerful, and highly relatable, Year 6 children will empathise with Nate and the challenges he faces at home, his struggles with bullying at school, and deciphering what really matters between the ages of 10 and 11. Highly recommended. Featured as our fiction book of the month for September 2023.
Verse story
Vi Spy: Licence to Chill by Maz Evans
While Valentine’s former top spy mum and one-time supervillain dad divorce, a growing evil lurks in the form of an Evil Overlord who wants to take over the world. Will Valentine be able to save us all from certain doom? The addictive fast-paced and funny plot will keep readers mesmerised. Previously featured as our fiction book of the month.
Thriller | Series
Crater Lake by Jennifer Killick
Never, ever fall asleep in this fast-paced and mysterious horror thriller! When Lance sets foot in the Crater Lake activity centre, little does he realise what awaits him and his friends. Will they be able to stop aliens in time before they brainwash all their teachers and classmates? A cracking creepy page-turner for independent readers.
Horror | Adventure
Jodie by Hilary McKay
Feeling lonely and isolated on a school trip on the edge of a marsh, Jodie hears the sound of a barking dog. As she sets off to find it, the tide comes in and she finds herself trapped. Will she be able to find a way to safety, and is the rumour that the marshes are haunted true? ‘Jodie’ is a memorable and atmospheric middle-grade ghost story. A moving shorter text for less confident readers. Highly recommended.
Ghost story
Wild by Ele Fountain
Jack is out of control, getting into trouble at school and pushing boundaries. He thinks his mum doesn’t notice until she invites him to join her on a surprise work trip, unexpectedly adventuring deep into the rainforest where real danger exists around every corner. Can Jack adjust and see what really matters in life? Covering themes of gang peer pressure, loss of a parent, attention-seeking behaviour and bravado, Wild is a book with bite – perfect for book club discussion and use as an impetus for creative writing.
Environment | Grief
The Boy At the Back of the Class by Onjali Rauf
Narrated in the first person by Ahmet, a nine-year-old Syrian refugee, this story follows how he copes with life in London, and how he plans to find the family he left behind. A masterpiece of empathy with situations and storylines that children will relate to, this is an excellent book to spark discussion, hot seating, and creative writing in Year 6 literacy and English lessons.
Nightfall in New York by Katherine Woodfine
The gloriously atmospheric and enigmatic quest story sees young heroines Sophie and Lil cross the Atlantic Ocean to New York in search of their captive friend. However, the dangerous and shadowy Fraternitas have other ideas and will stop at nothing to thwart their rescue attempt. A perfect class reader for year 6 teachers who are looking for a new Titanic-era text.
Historical
The Silly Book of Side-Splitting Stuff by Andy Seed
An extremely funny book of facts and true stories which will appeal to reluctant readers. Bright and engaging illustrations. A great book for year 6s to dip into.
Funny
Absolutely Everything by Christopher Lloyd
“A History of Earth, Dinosaurs, Rulers, Robots and Other Things Too Numerous” – this fantastic and unique non-fiction book is highly recommended to stretch and encourage inquisitive children and develop critical thinking. This recently revised and expanded edition is a brilliant resource for any year 6 classroom or child’s bookshelf at home. Read our review for more details.
Encyclopaedia
The Song Walker by Zillah Bethell
A compelling journey unfolds as two 13-year-old girls – one who has woken up with amnesia and the other on a quest – cross the Australian Outback. They develop a friendship, despite underlying secrets. Ideal for middle-grade readers seeking adventure and cultural exploration, this tale intricately weaves Australian history and Aboriginal beliefs into its narrative. Featured in our best children’s books coming out in Spring 2023.
Friendship
Britannica’s Encyclopedia Infographica by Valentina D’Efilippo, Andrew Pettie and Conrad Quilty-Harper
Dive into a world of knowledge with “Encyclopedia Infographica,” which features 200 infographics packed with information about space, Earth, animals, humans, and technology. Every page is laden with visual hooks and just the right amount of text to spark thought, imagination and higher-order questioning. Britannica’s Encyclopedia Infographica is highly recommended for children interested in STEM, real facts and learning how the world and universe beyond works.
Encyclopaedia
Moving Up: How to Ace Secondary School by Christian Foley
Rapping teacher Christian Foley offers invaluable guidance for students transitioning from primary to secondary school in this confidence-building and myth-busting guide. Daunting new classrooms, new friendship groups, increased academic expectations, social media and bullying are all covered in this comprehensive guide that will empower students to approach transition without fear. The accessible text and clear structure will help readers develop resilience and look forward to success in their new schools. Read our full review.
Transition
A Boy Called Hope by Lara Williamson
Year 6 students will love this highly original and interesting peek into the life of Dan Hope and his dysfunctional family. Touching and thought-provoking, it is an excellent book to read after Wonder and a great book to discuss with Year 6 students in PSHE. This story is a brilliant study of family relationships and changing friendships.
Family
Illegal by Eoin Colfer
A thrilling graphic novel with sparkling text and dialogue. Ebo is left alone when his brother disappears and his sister has already fled. Now he must set out on an epic and dangerous journey across deserts and through dangerous city streets to reach the sea, and a chance to escape and find his family. An accessible and well-written illustrated text, this is an ideal year 6 book for guided reading groups.
Adventure
The Land of Neverendings by Kate Saunders
What if there was a world powered not by gas, coal or electricity, but by the force of imagination? An inspirational, uplifting and heartwarming story about coping with loss. Both funny and thought-provoking, this unforgettable fantasy with a captivating narrative is an Alice Through the Looking Glass for modern times. Beautifully written, this classic in the making will appeal to empathetic readers in Year 6.
Fantasy | Grief | Funny
The Nowhere Emporium by Ross MacKenzie
When a strange shop appears out of nowhere, Daniel finds himself drawn into the mysterious building and its never-ending passages and surprises. He starts working for the owner – Mr Silver – but when Mr Silver vanishes into thin air, Daniel has to face threats and dark forces to save the Emporium. With rich language and sharply written descriptions, this is a great class reader book for Year 6.
Fantasy
Safiyyah’s War by Hiba Noor Khan
Inspired by the heroic actions of the Grand Mosque of Paris, Hiba Noor Khan delivers with this captivating novel that follows Safiyyah, a young Muslim girl in Nazi-occupied Paris. Amidst the turmoil, Safiyyah’s quest for justice leads her into the clandestine resistance against oppression. The poignant storytelling sheds light on the forgotten role of Muslims in history, showcasing bravery, empathy, and resilience amidst adversity. It’s a compelling read which will resonate with more advanced Year 6 readers.
Historical
Time Travelling With a Hamster by Ross Welford
A moving and memorable story about time travel. When Al reads a letter it sets off a chain of events in which he races to travel back to 1984 to try and save his late father. A highly imaginative and thought-provoking middle-grade chapter book, this is a must-read novel for year sixes.
Science fiction
Cogheart by Peter Bunzl
When her father goes missing in mysterious circumstances, Lily’s life is in sudden danger. Who took her father, and what do they want? A great page-turner book for ten-year-olds set in a steampunk Victorian world of shadowy clockmakers. With relatable characters and an ever-twisting plot, this is a compelling book for group reading in year 6.
Adventure
The Girl of Ink and Stars by Kiran Millwood Hargrave
Isabella finds herself on a captivating quest to find the mysterious lands her father once mapped. In this beautifully realised adventure story with elements of magic, myth and legend, Isabella finds herself the unlikely heroine tasked with saving her world. With rich language and atmospheric description, this is a high-quality text to underpin a year 6 literacy unit.
Fantasy
The Not-So Uniform Life of Holly-Mei by Christina Matula
This lively drama follows one girl’s life upheaval starting a new school in Hong Kong where not everything goes according to plan. Frenemies and culture shock are on the horizon. Can Holly-Mei put the sparkle back into her soon-to-be teenage life? The Not-So Uniform Life of Holly-Mei is the perfect light-hearted fun, true-to-life, upper primary / lower secondary read.
School story
SeaBEAN by Sarah Holding
Set on the remote island of St Kilda, this is an interesting fantasy reality story involving a magic black box that can transport 11-year-old Alice and her friends to incredible and far-flung locations. There, they have to work together to safeguard the planet in this, the first of a unique trilogy of eco-climate thrillers. This is a useful book to inspire year six children who are interested in climate change.
Realistic
Eren by Simon P Clark
A deceptively dark story about a boy taken by his mum to live in the country after a family drama. Eren is a strange and magical creature that lives in the attic. The surprising and unpredictable twists will keep year six children reading until the end. With taut plotting and short crisp chapters, this is a good option to read with a year six class that wants something slightly different.
Horror
The Railway Children by E Nesbit
A classic story of adventure and loss. Three children and their mother leave their lives in London to live in a small cottage in the country. Will they discover the mystery of their father’s disappearance? A classic novel to study in year 6 literacy lessons, this book is a valuable resource for teaching empathy, characterisation and inference.
Classic
The Light in Everything by Katya Balen
When a mum’s son, Tom, and a dad’s daughter, Zara, are blended together into a family neither of them wants, all they have in common is hating the idea of a new sibling. But when Tom’s mum falls ill, all their lives are drawn together in ways they could never have imagined. An inspirational story of trust and courage that will appeal to empathetic children in Year 6.
Family
Abomination by Robert Swindells
Martha lives with a dark secret – the abomination. Can she escape her strict upbringing and reveal the secret or is she better off keeping quiet? A more challenging novel, this text is a good option for year 6 children who are interested in books with bite and dystopian storylines.
Dystopia
Carrie’s War by Nina Bawden
Carrie and her brother Nick are evacuated to Wales to live with the strict Mr Evans. When Carrie visits Hepzibah Green she does perhaps the worst thing imaginable. How can she make things right? This modern classic is an ideal class reader for Year 6 pupils, and there are numerous teaching guides and resources available for this text.
Historical
Nothing Ever Happens Here by Sarah Hagger-Holt
12-year-old Izzy Palmer’s world changes when her father transitions to become Danielle. Set in the small town of Littlehaven, the story explores Izzy’s fears and uncertainties about her family’s future and what other people will think. Addressing themes of identity and acceptance, Nothing Ever Happens Here offers a sensitive portrayal of family dynamics and trans issues. Featured in our LGBTQIA books list.
LGBTQIA
The Sports Timeline Wallbook by Christopher Lloyd
A mind-blowing fold-out wallchart book that chronicles the history of sport from the ancient Olympics to the present day. Presented thematically by different types of sport this two-metre-long fold-out timeline is painstakingly illustrated by Andy Forshaw. A perfect research book, extension activity or display resource for Year 6 classrooms.
Sport
The Crowstarver by Dick King-Smith
Left abandoned as a baby on a farm, Simon Sparrow lives a tough life. However, he has an amazing gift. Every animal he meets understands and trusts him. A more challenging book, this award-winning children’s novel explores farming life, our relationship with animals and what defines friendship and loyalty. This is a great book to discuss with more advanced readers in year 6 book clubs.
From Hereabout Hill by Michael Morpurgo
An enchanting collection of nine short stories by the former Children’s Laureate. Each with a thought-provoking theme, these stories are perfect to read and discuss in literacy or PSHE with children in year 6, or to use as a guided reader with groups of children who prefer shorter texts.
Short stories
Fruit and Nutcase by Jean Ure
A story, told in diary entries, of Mandy’s unpredictable life and unusual parents. Mandy has so many things to worry about she starts to wonder if she’s going mad. A lively choice to read and model for classes studying autobiographies in year six, this book will appeal to children who enjoy high-interest, funny, and shorter texts.
Family
Granny by Anthony Horowitz
Joe is miserable and longs to escape from his huge family mansion. But his dangerous and evil granny has truly horrid plans for him. Can Joe escape her clutches? This darkly humorous tale will appeal to children who want something quirky, with irony, wickedly nasty characters and clever plot twists.
Funny
When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle
When an unwanted child is evacuated to live with a woman who doesn’t want children, an unlikely bond forms through their mutual desire to protect Adonis – a magnificent silverback gorilla. With vibrant characters and an emotionally moving plot, this is an ideal class novel for hot-seating, discussing empathy, and reading with Year 6 classes learning about WW2.
Historical | Empathy
The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien
The classic tale of Bilbo Baggins, a Hobbit, and his quest to travel with Gandalf and a band of dwarves to steal the treasure of a fearsome dragon. A more challenging book, The Hobbit will appeal to children who enjoy immersive fantasy worlds and memorable characters.
Fantasy
Kensuke’s Kingdom by Michael Morpurgo
After a storm, Michael is washed overboard from his parent’s yacht and finds himself marooned on a distant island with a Japanese soldier who survived the Hiroshima bombing. Kensuke and Michael become unlikely friends and Kensuke has to make a decision whether to stay on his island home or help Michael complete a dangerous quest to find his mother and father. A great book for year 6 group reading and book clubs.
Historical
Lion Boy by Zizou Corder
Charlie can speak to cats – and every type of cat – even a lion. He sets out on a perilous journey to find his kidnapped parents who have found a cure for asthma. Can his circus animal friends protect him from being captured before he finds them? A moving and emotive animal story with rich language and evocative descriptions, this is an ideal class reading text for year six.
Echo Mountain by Lauren Wolk
Mystery, fantasy, history and hope combine in this bewitching and atmospheric novel suitable for children aged 9-12. Can Ellie overcome a family tragedy and cope with living in a new and unfamiliar place? Full of rich and evocative language, this would be a great book to study in year 6.
Family | Empathy
The Machine Gunners by Robert Westall
Chas has a good collection of wartime bullets, shells and memorabilia. But it’s not quite the best collection in Garmouth. That’s until he finds a machine gun and 2000 rounds of ammunition, ready to fire. A gripping and fast-paced story with lots of dialogue, this is an ideal addition to Year 6 WW2 topics.
Historical
The Viewer by Gary Crew
An imaginative picture book ideal for older reluctant readers. Tristan finds an old picture-viewing device in a rubbish dump and becomes drawn further and further into the places and worlds he sees – until finally, he disappears into one of them. A perfect book for year 6 children who are imaginative, but reluctant readers.
Picture book
My Swordhand is Singing by Marcus Sedgwick
Peter discovers there’s more to his father than meets the eye in this mystical historical story of travellers, vampire slayers and a beautiful princess. An ideal book for those interested in immersive historical fiction, this multi-layered story is a useful text to use when analysing and modelling characterisations with children who are working at a ‘greater depth’ level in year 6 literacy lessons.
Horror
Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell
Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell transports readers to the Archipelago, a realm where mythical creatures thrive. When Christopher stumbles upon this hidden world, he joins Mal, a girl with a flying coat and a baby griffin, on a quest to uncover the cause of the declining magical essence, or glimourie. As they navigate dangers and dark forces threatening the islands, their journey reveals broader themes of environmental crisis and sacrifice. Rundell’s imaginative storytelling and richly detailed world is perfect for readers aged 10+. Featured in our best children’s books coming out in Autumn 2023.
Fantasy
Once by Morris Gleitzman
A young Jewish boy is determined to escape from an orphanage to find and rescue his parents from Nazi Germany. The first of a ground-breaking series, this story is an excellent analysis of war from a child’s perspective. A moving book to discuss in year 6 books clubs with more able students, it is also a good choice to compare and contrast with The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier.
Historical
The Other Side of the Truth by Beverley Naidoo
Sade and her brother Femi are ‘illegals’. They have fled from Nigeria where their father is being persecuted only to find London a harsh and unforgiving environment and not the safe haven they had hoped for. This modern classic is a children’s novel that lends itself to character hot seating and discussing different viewpoints in year six literacy lessons.
The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier
Separated from his parents in Poland in World War Two, Jan and his three friends travel through war-torn Europe to Switzerland with only a silver sword for protection. Will he find his parents? This gripping children’s novel is an addictive storytime read-aloud that classes will look forward to each day.
Historical
The Silver Road by Sinead O’Hart
A powerful magic stone must be returned to its owner – and Rose has been tasked with keeping it safe. A unique and adventurous brew of contemporary life, myth, epic quest and Irish magic, The Silver Road will enchant Year 6 readers. Highly recommended. Read our full review.
Quest | Magic
Skellig by David Almond
In the run-down garage of his new home, Michael finds a magical creature called Skellig. At the same time, Michael’s baby sister is gravely ill in hospital. Somehow Skellig seems to hold the key to saving her. Great for reluctant readers and perfect to add to a year 6 classroom library.
Fantasy
Tell Me No Lies by Malorie Blackman
Gemma struggles to deal with the pain of losing her mother and Mike struggles with a dark secret. When the two children meet they uncover a shocking secret that explains both of their pasts. A gripping psychological thriller that examines social issues, this is an ideal book for Year 6 readers who want a more challenging read.
Family
The Storm Swimmer by Clare Weze
Ginika feels abandoned at her grandparents’ seaside boarding house while her parents try to work out their financial woes. But her loneliness soon gives way to excitement as she meets Peri, a mystery boy from the sea who has a bubbly language and dolphin-like agility. As Ginika and Peri explore each other’s worlds, their bond deepens. Peri’s health, however, starts deteriorating because of the noise and lights of the human world, which causes Ginika to face her fears and make important decisions. This immersive and imaginative story weaves together themes of friendship, bravery, and dealing with new environments. Featured in our Edgy stories for 11-14 year olds.
Friendship
The Changes Trilogy – The Weathermonger by Peter Dickinson
Set in the future, Adults have decided machines cannot be trusted and a world without them is better. When Geoffrey tries to repair a motor, he and his sister are hunted as witches. The story follows their flight to France, where everything is very different. A clever dystopian novel, this book will appeal to more able more mature readers who enjoy fantasy, magic and imagination.
Dystopia
The Twig Man by Sana Rasoul
Eleven-year-old Ari is convinced that his sister Lana was kidnapped by the Twig Man, a malevolent figure who dwells in the woods. Nobody believes him, so Ari has to take matters into his own hands and confront the Twig Man to get Lana back. Teaming up with an unlikely new friend, Timmy, Ari combats the dark creature and uncovers the truth. The novel blends suspense with creepy eeriness, making it an compelling read for 10+ horror fans.
Horror
What Katy Did by Susan Coolidge
Katy is a tomboy, her hair is always a mess and her clothes look awful. But when there’s an awful accident, her life changes forever. The first in a series of books, this story will appeal to upper KS2 groups who enjoy school-based stories with laugh-out-loud funny moments.
Classic
Unexpected Twist: An Oliver Twisted Tale by Michael Rosen, illustrated by Tony Ross
This dual narrative follows Shona, the new girl at school, and Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist. As Shona tackles problems at home and strange school rules, she empathises with Oliver’s difficulties in life, which she is reading about in class. This clever story blends contemporary issues with Dickensian themes. It’s a good book to spark discussions about empathy, poverty, peer pressure, and overcoming obstacles – especially as part of a Victorians topic.
School story
The Wheel of Surya by Jamila Gavin
Jaspal and Marvinder travel from civil war-torn India in 1947 to find their father who is studying far away in England. A stunning historical novel, the epic and atmospheric story will immerse children in the landscape, politics and culture of post-war colonial India. This is a memorable narrative to discuss in book clubs or read as a class novel in year six.
The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
When four children are evacuated to a country house, Lucy looks into the wardrobe and discovers a doorway to the world of Narnia with Aslan, Mr Tumnus the Faun and the White Witch. This classic fantasy puts characters students will empathise with into perilous situations that only heroic actions can overcome. The sparkling storyline has a timeless and endearing quality that may well help to engender a lifelong love of reading in your child.
Fantasy
Small Things by Mel Tregonning
Childhood anxiety is depicted through striking black-and-white illustrations in this wordless story of a young boy overwhelmed by his worries. As he struggles with pressures at home and at school, he realises many other people feel the same way. With powerful imagery, Small Things explores vulnerability and support. It’s an excellent book to discuss in Year 6.
Wordless picture book
Goodnight Mister Tom by Michelle Magorian
Set during WW2, William “Willie” Beech, a boy from London who is abused by his mother, arrives at the home of Mr Thomas Oakley, a bad-tempered widower in his sixties who lives in the village of Little Weirwold. An ideal book for year 6 pupils studying 1939-1945.
Historical
Glitter Boy by Ian Eagleton
Ten-year-old James grapples with bullies at school and a challenging relationship with his father when not everyone is enthusiastic about an upcoming surprise choir performance. In this emotional rollercoaster that tackles bullying, self-discovery, and LGBTQ+ acceptance, the character of James sparkles with positivity and resilience, and the supportive cast of his teacher, friends, and loving Nan will offer readers hope. Addressing the realities of LGBTQ+ youth and promoting compassion and empathy, Glitter Boy is a vital addition to UKS2 libraries. Eagleton’s uplifting narrative is a heartfelt triumph that will provide solace and inspiration to those reading it.
LGBTQ+
Why the Whales Came by Michael Morpurgo
There are rumours that the Birdman is mad and dangerous. When Gracie and Daniel cannot find a place to sail their boats they eventually run into him. Despite all they have been told, they build up a friendship and the Birdman reveals the island is under an ancient curse. An enchanting and magical story, this is a good text to read as part of WW1 or Remembrance topics.
Historical
21% Monster by P. J Canning
Darren Devlin discovers he is part monster after causing destruction at his school. Rescued by Marek Masters, a 14-year-old with alien heritage, Darren learns they are both products of a secret experiment. As they work together to evade the clutches of a secret organisation, Darren must confront his fears and decide who he can trust. This high-energy adventure blends fast-paced action with positive and relatable characters and will appeal to fans of Alex Rider and Percy Jackson. Highly recommended for less confident readers. Featured in our edgy stories for 11-14 year olds list.
Adventure
The Borrowers by Mary Norton
A wonderful story about a family of tiny people who live secretly in the walls and floors of an English house and “borrow” from the big people in order to survive. This immersive classic is a great novel to encourage your ten-year-old to read for pleasure.
Classic
When Life Gives You Mangoes by Kereen Getten
When Life Gives You Mangoes is a lyrical, evocative story set in Sycamore Hill, a small Jamaican village. Clara struggles with memory loss from the previous summer, leading to tension with her former best friend and uncertainty about the new girl, Rudy. As the summer progresses, Clara’s journey to uncover the truth about what happened takes shape. This powerful middle-grade novel intricately weaves themes of friendship, self-discovery, and community, and features an unforgettable and dramatic twist ending. With its rich depiction of island life and convincing characters, When Life Gives You Mangoes is a memorable read for 10+ year-olds.
Friendship
Siverfin by Charlie Higson
The adventures of the 13-year-old young James Bond, set at school and in the Scottish Highlands. With a fast-paced plot, quick-fire dialogue and great action sequences, this would make an exciting adventure option group reader for Year 6 classes.
Adventure
The Golden Linnet by Alexander Armstrong
12 year old Sam’s world will never be the same after he discovers the truth behind his family’s connection to the secretive Order of the Evening. When a powerful enemy seeks the Order’s hidden palace and its magic, it’s up to Sam to stop the impending threat. Set in Durham, the novel combines ancient magic, secret societies, and dangerous adventures with fresh and convincing storytelling. Ideal for readers aged 9–12, this brilliant fantasy adventure features a fast-paced narrative with themes of loyalty, power, and self-discovery. It’s a surefire hit for Year 6 whole class reading!
Fantasy | Adventure
Journey to the Last River by Teddy Keen
Children will lose days reading this highly imaginative, wild and dangerous adventure! When the Unknown Adventurer discovers a mysterious map the reader is thrust into a nail-biting Amazonian rain forest trek. Every page records thrilling encounters – some terrifying with huge snakes, piranhas and caiman, and some awe-inspiring with unknown flora and flora. Will the Unknown Adventure and Bibi find the elusive ‘last river’?
Picture book adventure
Oranges in No Man’s Land by Elizabeth Laird
Ayesha is a ten-year-old living in Beirut. Her father left the family for work and her mother was killed by a missile strike. Living with her grandmother and younger siblings, she faces a huge dilemma when her grandmother falls ill. Does she stay to look after her, or does she travel into the unknown to find help? An ideal issue-based storybook for Year 6 reading groups.
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Books for year 6 video
Below is a video highlighting all our Year 6 book picks in a catchy 5-minute slideshow which can be displayed in primary school libraries, used in the classroom, at home, for CPD or shared as a link for home learning or remote teaching.
How many of our year 6 books have you read?
Here’s a free background wallpaper of our recommended year 6 books list to use on your classroom computer
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Books for Year 6 – what titles to recommend to children
Navigating the transition to secondary school can be a pivotal time for Year 6 students. Recommending books that address themes of resilience, self-discovery, and coping with change can offer valuable insights. Consider titles that explore the challenges of exams and SATS pressure, providing relatable stories that depict characters overcoming stress and uncertainty. Books focusing on the emotional aspects of being the oldest at primary school can help students process their feelings and embrace leadership roles. Additionally, introducing literature that delves into issues of social and peer pressure equips Year 6 readers with the tools to make thoughtful choices and build strong interpersonal skills as they embark on this significant phase in their academic journey. A well-curated booklist for Year 6 students can prove beneficial here.
What reading level should a year 6 be?
Determining the appropriate reading level for Year 6 students involves considering both individual abilities and broader literacy benchmarks. Generally, students in Year 6 are expected to comprehend and analyse more complex texts, demonstrating proficiency in understanding nuanced themes and characters. At this stage, a good indicator is their ability to handle books with increased vocabulary, varied sentence structures, and challenging content. However, it’s crucial to recognize that reading levels can vary among individuals, so providing a range of books that cater to different reading abilities ensures inclusivity and fosters a love for reading in all students. Personalised Year 6 book lists can help to achieve this.
For less demanding books for year 6, try the Books for Year 5 reading list.
For even more books for 10-11-year-olds, see this list.
For the more able child, try the Books for Year 7 reading list.
