Year 5 reading list – this book collection was carefully curated by highly experienced and qualified librarians and teachers who specialise in contemporary children’s literature. It includes over 50 classic and modern titles that have all been tested with youngsters aged 9 to 10 in upper KS2 primary school classes. There is a wide range of fiction and nonfiction books available for readers of various levels, including those who struggle. We chose works that are appropriate for whole-class reading, home learning, intervention groups, book clubs, reading aloud, and shared reading. This list of recommendations is reviewed termly and includes stories by Ravena Guron, S.F Said, Vashti Hardy, Sabine Adeyinka, Polly Ho-Yen, Christopher Lloyd, A.F. Steadman, Cornelia Funke, Maz Evans, Malorie Blackman, Judith Kerr, Eoin Colfer and many more.
Books for Year 5 – our recommendations
Glassborn by Peter Bunzl
When the clock strikes 13, Acton, the youngest of the four Belle siblings, finds himself in fairyland and forced to work for an evil queen. Can Cora, Elle and Bram save their brother before it’s too late? The spectacularly realised fantasy quest story is brilliantly written, with convincing characters in an unforgettable world. It’s a must-read for fans of magic, daring adventure and gripping twists. Highly recommended for readers in Year 5.
Fantasy | Adventure
Song of the River by Gill Lewis
This environmental story with short chapters is accessible – with a reading age of 8 – and compelling. Can Cari find a way to save the landscape, prevent flooding and bring back the beavers? Not just a story, but a call to action – this is a rousing tale to inspire young people to think about conservation and the equilibrium of the natural environment. With emotive and debate-worthy themes, this story is ideal for guided reading groups in Year 5.
Conservation
Beastlands: Race to Frostfall Mountain by Jess French
Jess French transports readers to Ramoa, an island world once teeming with wildlife and nature. This captivating tale with incredible creatures and settings follows Kayla who’s on a quest to rescue her stolen winged pangron. With friends Alethea and Rustus, she’s thrust into an epic adventure brimming with friendship and peril that will grip UKS2 readers. Beastlands blends a winning potion of magic, fantasy and fast-paced adventure. We can’t wait for the sequel. Highly recommended for 9-12 year olds.
Fantasy | Adventure
Dungeon Runners: Hero Trial by Kieran Larwood
Intrepid 9+ year-olds will relish this exhilarating journey into the world of Dungeon Runners with Kit, a determined part gnome, part dwarf – ‘gnorf’ with big dreams and a big heart. With his friends Sandy and Thorn, Kit navigates mazes, puzzles, and monsters in the compelling Dungeon Running League. Larwood’s fun-filled storytelling, paired with Todd-Stanton’s vibrant illustrations, brings this action-packed friendship-themed adventure to life. It’s an irresistible read for less confident children in Year 5. Highly recommended. Read our full review.
Interactive | Adventure
Aya and the Star Chaser by Radiya Hafiza
When Aya gets struck by a star she develops awesome powers. But will she be able to control them and can she keep her family safe from the evil ruler Abnus? With a striking cover and illustrations by Kaley McKean, this adventure chapter book will appeal to children who enjoy fantasy and folklore. Teachers will also appreciate the diverse cultural representation. Steeped in rich Bengali mythology, Aya and the Star Chaser is a captivating and rewarding read for Year 5 readers. Read our full review.
Fairy tale | Fantasy
The Wall Between Us by Dan Smith
This absorbing and convincing Cold War thriller sees Anja and Monika experience first-hand the division and fear caused by the Berlin War. Will they ever see each other again? Ideal for more advanced Year 5 classes, The Wall Between Us is perfect for character hot seating, P4E discussion and using for creative writing ideas.
Historical
The Island At The Edge Of Night by Lucy Strange
Abandoned in a remote boarding school on a desolate Scottish island, Faye unravels secrets among a small group of students who have all been labelled wicked. Lucy Strange’s Gothic narrative, blending mystery and magical elements, will captivate 9+ year-old readers who enjoy being immersed in dark and twisty storylines. Exploring themes of overcoming fears, the power of friendship and the healing power of nature, this sparklingly atmospheric novel is an unforgettable read. Highly recommended for whole class reading in Year 5. Read our full review.
Mystery
The Thief of Farrowfell by Ravena Guron
In this fast-paced and exciting tale of crime, magic, and intrigue, Jude Ripon strives to prove her worth by stealing a rare piece of magic, unaware that it is guarded by a powerful curse. It’s perfect for children seeking excitement and fantasy adventure. Read our full review.
Fantasy | Crime
Skandar and the Unicorn Thief by A.F. Steadman
400 pages of epic, engaging, and highly absorbing reading will take youngsters to a magical world of unicorns that they will not want to leave. Don’t be surprised if it’s on permanent loan from your school library! An excellent novel for sparking inventive creative writing ideas, it’s also ideal for reading aloud and discussing in groups. Skandar is a fantasy novel that every classroom should have.
Fantasy | Adventure
Tyger by S.F Said
When Adam finds a mysterious Tyger in a rubbish dump, he soon realises it’s not just the Tyger in danger, but everyone and the world around him. Can Adam, his friend Zadie and the Tyger save the day? This impressively illustrated hardback blends magic, fantasy, culture and humanity into an unforgettable story. This award-winning book is highly recommended for class reading.
Animal story | Adventure
Jummy at the River School by Sabine Adeyinka
Jummy is excited about joining at an elite boarding school in Southern Nigeria, but her joy is clouded by disappointment when her best friend Caro is not accepted. Caro arrives unexpectedly, not as a student, but as a servant, just as Jummy is settling in and making new friends. This vivid first-person depiction of boarding school life, friendships, and fast-paced fun will appeal to KS2 independent readers.
School story | Diverse
The Sky by Hélène Druvert
With cutouts, immersive illustrations, short chunks of accessible text and bold headings, readers will be whisked away on a non-fiction journey into ‘The Sky’. Covering the air, eclipses, the atmosphere, travel, history, pollution, the solar system and much more, this book will encourage children to look up. ‘The Sky’ is a breathtaking large-format illustrated book to be treasured at home or at school.
Picture book
The Treasure Hunters by Lisa Thompson
Shy Vincent would much rather be at home than endure a school activity weekend. That’s until one of his classmates tells him her grandfather died convinced there’s pirate treasure buried nearby. Will they be able to find it before dark forces get there first? With themes of wilderness, empathy, dyspraxia, adventure and mystery, this is a roller-coaster illustrated chapter book to read and discuss in class.
Mystery | Adventure
Malamander by Thomas Taylor
When Violet teams up with Herbie to help her find out what happened to her long-lost parents, little does she realise how her life will become entangled with the Malamander monster of Eerie-on-Sea. A fascinating story that captures a uniquely quirky and fantastical atmosphere. An ideal whole class reading book for year 5 children. The first of a series.
Fantasy
Coming to England by Floella Benjamin
This inspiring autobiography sensitively and revealingly chronicles the Windrush experience of a young girl travelling from Trinidad to a new life in England in 1960. A powerful read, Floella Benjamin’s childhood account is one that will resonate with KS2 children and one they will be able to empathise with. This text will be a useful resource for autobiographical writing in year 5 literacy lessons.
Wolf Brother by Michelle Paver
In a dark world set many millennia ago, 12-year-old Torak must take a dangerous journey to the mountain of Wolf Spirit and save the world from a dangerous demon. An ideal group reading book for greater depth year 5 pupils.
Fantasy
Who Let the Gods Out by Maz Evans
An anarchic laugh-out-loud story about a boy, Elliot, who spots a shooting star one night which turns out to be a deity with a lot on her mind; and something unexpected and very nasty lurking under Stonehenge. The pair call on the Gods of Greek myths to save the world and Elliot’s mum. The outrageously funny language will appeal to reluctant readers. This must-read book is probably a cult series in the making.
Funny
Ajay and the Mumbai Sun by Varsha Shah
When Ajay starts up a school newspaper with his friends Saif, Vinod, Jasmin and Jai, he stumbles upon a web of corruption by powerful people. Can he evade danger and expose the crimes? With rich cultural details and compelling storytelling, Ajay and the Mumbai Sun is a sublime slice of life to wistfully lose a few days reading. It’s also a must-read for children involved in school newspapers, and an inspirational book to encourage pupils to care about finding the truth.
Thriller
The Violet Veil Mysteries by Sophie Cleverly
When Violet’s father is arrested for crimes he did not commit, she is thrust into a world of intrigue and ghostly goings-on in this, the first of a new series. Set in the world of undertakers Veil & Son’s, Violet is determined to walk in her father’s footsteps and one day run the family firm. With fast-paced plotting, short chapters and a strong female protagonist, this story is ideal for upper KS2 murder mystery fans and would make a good year 5 book for reading group discussion.
Mystery
Beetle Boy by MG Leonard
When Darkus’ dad vanishes he finds himself living next to the neighbours from hell. When things seemingly can’t get any worse, a super-intelligent talking beetle comes to the rescue. Anarchic, funny, and at times completely mad – with a hint of Roald Dahl. This is a gripping storytime read-aloud that pupils will look forward to each day.
Adventure
Boy in the Tower by Polly Ho-Yen
A boy who lives in a tower block sees the whole world below him. But one day the tower begins to crumble and fall. The world around him collapses amongst peculiar and menacing plants. Is all hope lost or can he find a way out? This multi-award-winning book with high-quality text is ideal for teaching in year 5 literacy units, and perfect to use when modelling tension, descriptive writing and settings.
Dystopia | Diverse
The Wolf Wilder by Katherine Rundell
Set in revolution-era Russia, a snowbound mother and daughter live in fear of the encroaching Red Army. But Feodora and her mother have a unique talent – they can turn tame wolves into suspicious and wild beasts fit to fend for themselves. With sparkling prose and rich in figurative language, this is a memorable story for freedom and independence that will keep a class of year five children entranced.
Historical
Heidi by Johanna Spyri
Heidi is an orphan left heartbroken when she has to leave her grandfather and home in the mountains to live in the city. This classic children’s literature novel both inspires and delights and will appeal to children who yearn for the great outdoors. The text is also a useful resource for year 5 teachers looking to explore descriptive settings and use landscapes to create atmospheric narrative writing.
Classic
Rumaysa: a Fairytale by Radiya Hafiza, illustrated by Rhaida El Touny
The worlds of Rapunzel, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty are thrown together in this uniquely imaginative story about Rumaysa, who uses her hijab to escape captivity and embark on adventures with characters from classic fairytales. Using South Asian cultural elements and Islamic references, this chapter book, with illustrations by Rhaida El Touny and Areeba Siddique, offers a diverse perspective on traditional stories. Highly recommended.
Diverse
Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
Artemis Fowl is the twelve-year-old son of an Irish crime lord. After significant research, Artemis believes that he has confirmed the existence of fairies, and he intends to track them down. A more advanced book for year 5 book clubs.
Fantasy
The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis
11-year-old Parvana is forced by circumstances to become the breadwinner for her family in a war-torn Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. This complex issue-based story is a masterpiece of empathy and will not only grip children in year five, but allow them to empathise, hot-seat, and compare how different their lives are to Parvana’s experiences. Highly recommended for year 5 book clubs and topic-based teaching.
Clockwork by Philip Pullman
A tormented apprentice clock-maker, a deadly mechanical knight in armour – and the sinister Dr Kalmenius, who some say is the devil. A great modern fairy tale, this short chapter book contains sparkling writing, rich figurative language and evocative descriptions. It’s a gift for creative writing teachers looking to develop pupils’ storytelling skills in year 5.
Fantasy
The Wanderer by Peter Van Den Ende
Follow a paper boat’s journey across a fantastical ocean through intricate black-and-white illustrations, surreal marine creatures, mysterious environments, and hidden dangers. Each page offers a detailed, dreamlike experience, blending elements of fantasy and reality. The absence of text invites readers to interpret the visual narrative, exploring themes of bravery, environmental concerns, and perseverance.
Wordless picture book
Danny the Champion of the World by Roald Dahl
Danny and his father William live in a caravan mending cars for a living, although Danny’s father also has a dangerous sideline in poaching pheasants. A gripping and at times visceral story that is peppered with humour and warmth, this is one of the more challenging and thought-provoking children’s novels by Roald Dahl.
Family
The What on Earth? Wallbook Timeline of Big History by Christopher Lloyd
An incredible history book that spans the dawn of time to the present day, in a five-metre-long fold-out book timeline which can be laid out on a table, floor or wall. Unique and very engaging, children can walk around the book and dip into different time periods. Thought-provoking and inspiring, this book and wallchart combination is great for reluctant readers and it’s perfect for year 5 pupils who are interested in facts, history and non-fiction texts.
History
Dial a Ghost by Eva Ibbotson
When new owners force the Wilkinsons to leave the home they’re haunting, they travel to London and apply to Dial-a-Ghost for a new home. The agency finds the perfect home for the Wilkinsons – a ruin – and tells them they can move in on Friday the 13th… A fun and easy-to-read short-chapter novel, Dial a Ghost is perfect for guided reading groups in year 5 – especially around Halloween time.
Funny
Indiana Bones by Harry Heape
With the perfect blend of humour and history, Indiana Bones, a dog detective with Aisha as his owner and sidekick, set out to fathom centuries-old crimes from Castile to Casablanca. This gripping and pacey mystery is cleverly set in highly legible and doubled spaced type to appeal to reluctant readers in UKS2. It’s also a useful text to help less able readers develop language and vocabulary, both in terms of reading, and when modelling creative writing.
Mystery
Dragon Rider by Cornelia Funke
A silver dragon named Firedrake, the Brownie Sorrel, and Ben, a boy, search for the mythical mountain range called the Rim of Heaven to escape persecution from humans. Friendship, loyalty and good and evil are some of the key themes in this epic quest. The first in a series of bestselling spellbinding fantasy novels, Dragon Rider will transfix many of the 9-year-olds that read it.
Fantasy
Emil and the Detectives by Erich Kästner
On the train to Berlin, Emil meets a mysterious man who introduces himself as Max Grundeis. This man gives Emil mysterious chocolate and Emil falls asleep. When he wakes up, the money and Herr Grundeis are gone. A classic of twentieth-century children’s literature, and a gripping mystery, this is a surefire addition to your year five classroom library.
Classic
Peter in Peril by Helen Bate
Peter’s life is turned upside down when his family have to go into hiding to escape persecution in WW2 Hungary. This easy-to-read graphic novel is accessible, highly visual and ideal for reluctant readers in year five. It’s also ideal to read in conjunction with When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr. Read our full review.
Historical
Vita and the Gladiator by Ally Sherrick
Vita rails against a future of arranged marriage and motherhood as a high-born girl in Roman London. But when her father is killed, she flees that life, poses as a slave, and teams up with unlikely allies in a breakneck race to find out who committed the murder. With fast-paced chapters, rich historical detail and a strong female protagonist, this cracking middle-grade novel does not disappoint. Read our full review.
Historical
Cloud Soup by Kate Wakeling
This new collection from the creators of the award-winning Moon Juice contains 35 inventive, quirky and humorous poems for 9-11-year-olds. Full of imagery and great to read aloud, this is a good pick for year 5&6 classrooms. This highly imaginative poetry collection is also ideal for sparking ideas for children’s writing in upper KS2.
Poetry
The Ghost of Thomas Kempe by Penelope Lively
James Harrison and his family move into a cottage in Ledsham and from day one they are bothered by a ghost called Thomas Kempe. An atmospheric and slightly scary book for group reading with more confident readers in Year 5. It’s perfect if you want to set up an after-school ghost story writing activity for nine-year-olds.
Horror
Black Hole Cinema Club by Christopher Edge
Lucas and his friends are swept into a movie-themed adventure after a strange event at their local cinema. Facing prehistoric monsters and lost cities, they must deal with dangers, solve problems, and figure out how to get home before the film ends. Edge’s novel combines classic film tropes with clever STEM concepts, all within a fast-paced adventure and teamwork plot. It’s a uniquely unputdownable story for imaginative readers. Featured in our best books for spring 2024 list.
Science fiction
Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling
The publishing phenomenon and bestselling middle-grade series starring Harry, Ron and Hermione is perfect for independent reading, whole-class novel studies, and group reading. Also, Harry Potter might well be the series of books that gets your child hooked on reading for pleasure and energised to start reading more often. A highly recommended series of books for year 5.
Fantasy
A Flash of Fireflies by Aisha Bushby
Hazel lives with her great aunt Grant while her parents finish their move from Kuwait to the UK. She struggles with the chaos and fear associated with starting school. Haunted by fireflies from her past, she gets pulled into a shadowy fantasyland. Interweaving magical twists, this novel gives an accurate portrayal of OCD through the use of fairy tale elements while exploring mental health issues. It stresses getting support and working through change through fresh and original prose. Highly recommended for more confident UKS2 readers. Featured in our best children’s books coming out in summer 2022.
Fantasy | School story
The Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith
Cruella de Vil has 97 Dalmatian puppies. She needs 101 to make a new fur coat. Can anyone stop her before it’s too late? This classic children’s novel has been turned into a number of films and audiobook adaptations, making it a highly accessible option for year five guided reading groups.
Classic
The Iron Man by Ted Hughes
A new paperback edition of this classic children’s novel, with spectacular graphic illustrations by Chris Mould. A giant metal man rains destruction on the countryside by attacking farm equipment, before befriending a boy and defending the world from an alien monster. This is a wonderful introduction to figurative writing, no year 5 classroom should be without a set of this book.
Science fiction
The Shark Caller by Zillah Bethell
In Papua New Guinea, Blue Wing longs to be a shark caller but must learn to make friends with newcomer Maple. Initially rivals, they discover that there is something they all have in common: grief. The girls set out to take on a ferocious shark. With themes of cultural traditions and personal growth woven into richly described island life and authentic Papuan Pidgin English, this mesmerising story tackles friendship, loss, and forgiveness. A rewarding read.
Diverse
Wild is the Wind by Grahame Baker-Smith
A truly mesmerising picture book that takes the reader on a journey over the ocean in a hot air balloon with Cassi and the swift that she has nursed back to health. The reader experiences spectacular and diverse illustrated landscapes along the route, in this migration story with a distinctly human element. Ideal to incorporate into topics about seasons and weather, the poetic commentary also lends itself to use as an impetus for teaching similes and metaphors in year 5 English lessons.
Picture book
The Glorious Race of Magical Beasts by Alex Bell, illustrated by Tim McDonagh
This delightful adventure celebrates libraries, books, and unforgettable characters. In a world dominated by unlikely partnerships, friendship, and courage, the fast-paced plot will keep KS2 readers engaged. There’s rich world-building, from the multi-levelled Harmonia to Eli’s small library, and Eli’s unwavering determination and ability to find the best in others make this an ideal chapter novel for reading groups. Highly recommended.
Magic | Fantasy
Scribbleboy by Philip Ridley
Bailey arrives in a new neighbourhood with his unusual family. He has no friends but receives a strange invitation to join the Scribbleboy Fan Club. With exciting vocabulary, wacky, larger-than-life characters, vivid descriptions, lively illustrations and laugh-out-loud moments, this is a great book to encourage reluctant readers in year 5.
Family
The Boy in the Smoke by Rachel Faturoti
Isaiah is struggling with financial hardship and family troubles. When he discovers a time portal in an old fireplace in his tower block, it leads him to Jacob who lives in a workhouse in the 1830s. Together, Isaiah and Jacob decipher the mystery of Jacob’s father and the dark workhouse secrets. An excellent text to explore resilience and friendship, The Boy in the Smoke also tackles poverty, money and hope through relatable characters and a powerful storyline. Highly recommended.
Historical
Stig of the Dump by Clive King
Stig is a caveman. He lives at the bottom of a pit close to Barney’s grandparents’ house. People throw all their old junk in the pit and Barney decides it would be the perfect place to build a den. An ideal group reader book for year 5, this classic is a staple for KS2 English teaching as well as being a never-to-be-forgotten independent read.
Classic
October, October by Katya Balen
11-year-old October’s idyllic world changes suddenly when she has to go and live with her mum in the city. More than anything she yearns for a return to living in the wild woodland in harmony with nature, and most importantly to her, with her father. With beautifully written and atmospheric prose, this memorable book will appeal to Year 5 English teachers as a text to use for modelling creative writing and discussing as a class text.
Family | Nature
Hacker by Malorie Blackman
Vicky’s father is accused of stealing over a million pounds from the bank where he works. How can she prove his innocence? A more mature independent reading book for year 5 pupils, this novel will appeal to children who have a strong sense of right and wrong, or who are interested in computers and coding.
Mystery | Diverse
Into the Volcano by Jess Butterworth
When a tragic event brings Seb and Vivi together, they embark on a hazardous journey across the vast expanse of Yellowstone Park. Seb is searching for a mythical rainbow pool to help heal his injured friend, Clay, while Vivi is trying to honour the memory of her grandmother. Their journey across a dangerous volcanic landscape encompasses themes of grief, hope, and the power of friendship. With heart-stopping survival moments and highly believable and empathetic characters, this is a cracking novel to read with and to KS2 classes.
Adventure | Friendship
When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr
The powerful story of a young Jewish girl who is forced to flee her home in Germany in 1933. A masterpiece of historical fiction, this is a moving novel that is ideal for both year five book clubs and for teaching as a whole class text as part of a WW2 topic.
Historical
Mia and the Lightcasters by Janelle McCurdy, illustrated by Ana Latese
When Mia’s parents are captured and caged, she is forced to embark on a perilous journey to seek help and rely on her unusual gift for taming the magical wild umbra creature. Refreshing, fun and unputdownable, this is an epic and ambitious adventure with magical and memorable characters. If you want to kickstart your child’s reading, this is the perfect book. Featured in our best children’s books coming out in summer 2022.
Fantasy
Moondial by Helen Cresswell
A girl discovers a tunnel through time and tries to help two children from the past, in this story of ghosts, friendship and trying to right wrongs. A vividly told story, this classic children’s novel is filled with evocative and atmospheric descriptions, rich characterisation and complex sentences – making it a useful teaching resource for more able pupils working at greater depth in year 5.
Classic
The Demon Headmaster by Gillian Cross
Dinah Glass discovers that her new school Headmaster is very strange. It’s almost as if he’s controlling what all the pupils say and think. Something is very wrong, and Dinah wants to know what it is. A fast-paced school-based dystopia for nine-year-olds, this is a thought-provoking read that will linger in the imagination.
Realistic fiction
The Witches by Roald Dahl
A young boy goes to stay with his grandmother after his parents are killed in a car crash in the Norwegian mountains The next night, she begins to warn him about witches, evil witches. Of all the Roald Dahl titles, this is a perennial favourite with year 5 children, with a rollercoaster plot that will suit more confident readers.
Adventure
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
Robot Roz wakes up on a remote island and has to work out how to survive amongst the local wildlife. Initially feared by the animals, Roz learns to adapt and ultimately builds relationships after adopting a gosling. The compelling story explores identity, belonging, and how nature and technology can coexist. This film tie-in includes engaging illustrations and is bound to be a popular title on Year 5 bookshelves.
Science fiction
Brightstorm: A Sky-Ship Adventure by Vashti Hardy
A gripping fantasy story that is perfectly suited for class reading. Arthur and Maudie Brightstorm set off on a dangerous voyage to find their father and save the family’s reputation. The first of a stunning series and an ideal year 5 book to inspire readers.
Fantasy
Bill’s New Frock by Anne Fine
Bill is forced to go to school in a dress – a frilly pink dress. One of the worst days of his life is about to begin in this very funny story. A fun storybook to read around the class and perform in year 5, this is also an interesting book to spark discussion in PSHE lessons.
Funny
The Mouse and His Child by Russell Hoban
The spellbinding story of a tin father and son who dance under a Christmas tree until they break the ancient clockwork rules and are themselves broken. A spellbinding and memorable storybook to read aloud to a year five at the end of the day, this children’s novel is a must-have for the classroom bookshelf.
Classic
King of the Cloud Forests by Michael Morpurgo
When Japan invades China, Ashley and his Uncle are forced to flee across the Himalayas. When Ashley is captured by a group of strange creatures, they revere him as their king. But why? This surprising and memorable story is ideal for group reading in year five and is also a worthwhile addition to any upper KS2 classroom library.
Adventure
Asha & the Spirit Bird by Jasbinder Bilan
Asha sets out from the Himalayan foothills to find her father when the money he sends suddenly stops. Facing a dangerous mountain journey, Asha is guided by a Lamagaia bird that contains the spirit of her late grandmother. Blending Asha’s spiritual beliefs with compelling themes of family, faith, and resilience, Asha & the Spirit Bird is a spectacular story of magical realism and real-world struggle for UKS2 readers. Highly recommended.
Magical realism
The Phoenix and the Carpet by E. Nesbit
A group of children find out their new carpet is magical. An egg in the carpet hatches into a talking Phoenix which explains that the carpet is magical and will grant them three wishes every day. This classic of children’s literature is a more challenging book for year 5 readers.
Classic
You Wait Till I’m Older Than You! by Michael Rosen
This vibrant collection reflects on childhood, family, and growing up, with poems about funny incidents, mishaps with siblings, embarrassing moments, as well as reflections on friendship and family life. Rosen draws on personal experiences to create poems that are light-hearted, poignant, and above all, memorable. This collection is perfect for both classroom and independent reading.
Poetry
The Scarecrow and his Servant by Philip Pullman
A scarecrow comes alive after being struck by lightning and sets out on a spectacular quest with Jack, an orphan who is his servant. Brilliantly told, this lyrical and beautifully woven tale will keep year five children engrossed from start to finish. A marvellous class reader for teachers who want a text with rich language and characterisation.
Adventure
Flight for Freedom by Kristen Fulton and Torben Kuhlmann
Flight for Freedom tells the true story of the Wetzel family’s daring escape from East Germany in 1979 using a homemade hot air balloon. Set against the backdrop of the Berlin Wall and Cold War tensions, this picture book tells a compelling tale of bravery, perseverance, and the pursuit of freedom. With detailed maps and diagrams, it’s a captivating, fascinating, and original picture book to have in your classroom library.
Picture book
The Factory Made Boy by Christine Nostlinger
Mrs Bartolotti receives a package by mistake. Inside is a factory-made boy called Conrad who never does anything wrong. The factory wants Conrad back, but he doesn’t want to go. A shorter text, this is a good year 5 book choice for reluctant readers.
Science fiction
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Books for year 5 video
Below is a video showcasing all our Year 5 book recommendations in a helpful 5-minute film which can be displayed in schools, projected on classroom display panels, used as a training resource, or shared as a link for remote learning or school internet websites.
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Here’s a free background wallpaper of our recommended year 5 books list to use on your classroom computer
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Books for Year 5 – what titles to recommend to children
Selecting engaging and age-appropriate books for Year 5 children involves considering their evolving interests and reading abilities. Aim for a diverse mix of genres, including adventure, mystery, historical fiction, and fantasy. Look for titles that spark curiosity, provoke critical thinking, and encourage empathy. Series with relatable characters and captivating storylines often capture their interest, fostering a love for reading. It’s beneficial to involve children in the selection process, considering their preferences and providing a balance between challenging and comfortable reads. Some timeless classics and contemporary gems can enrich their literary experience, creating a well-rounded reading list that both teachers and parents can confidently recommend. A well-curated Year 5 reading list can really make a big difference.
What reading level should a year 5 be?
In Year 5, children typically achieve a reading age that ranges from 9 to 11 years old. However, it’s crucial to recognize that individual development varies, and children may progress at different rates. The focus should be on assessing their comprehension, fluency, and critical thinking skills rather than adhering strictly to a specific reading level. Encouraging a diverse range of reading materials, from challenging novels to informational texts, supports their intellectual growth and expands their vocabulary. Personalised booklists for Year 5 can help to achieve this. Regular assessments and discussions with teachers can provide valuable insights into each child’s progress and guide adjustments to their reading journey accordingly.
Click for more children’s reading book recommendations – Picture books to read before you are 5 years old | Reception books | Year 1 books | Year 2 books | Year 3 books | Year 4 books | Year 5 books (this page) | Year 6 books | Topic books | KS3 books
For less able readers, try our Books for Year 4 reading suggestions.
For even more books for 9-10-year-olds, see this list.
For the more able, have a look at our Books for Year 6 reading list.
