Empowering Classrooms with Handpicked Essentials for Teachers, Students, and Parents

31 Chapter Books for Second Graders, Recommended by Teachers


Second grade is a improbable time to be a reader. There are such a lot of interesting chapter books for second graders to get and hold youngsters studying extra—which in flip helps their persevering with fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and data development! Discovering simply the precise titles and sequence to suit youngsters’ studying phases and pursuits in second grade means wading by way of plenty of decisions. We’ve created this listing of chapter books for second graders with various characters, heartwarming tales, magic, and journey that will help you have interaction your rising readers and hold them coming again for extra.

Bounce to:

You’ll want to request your printable copy of this listing, so you’ll be able to simply share it along with your college students! Simply click on the button under to get it.

Starting Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

It’s essential to not overwhelm second grade chapter ebook newbies with too many decoding and comprehension calls for directly—particularly at the beginning of the 12 months. These decisions are each manageable and motivating.

1. Yasmin sequence by Saadia Faruqi, illustrated by Hatem Aly

Lifelike Fiction

Amazon

Yasmin is a brilliant and imaginative Pakistani American lady who shares adventures together with her mother and father and grandparents. In 4 brief, easy-to-read chapters, she comes up with inventive options to the issues in her life. These well-liked chapter books for second graders work nicely for ebook teams or particular person studying and response.

Purchase it: Yasmin series

2. Pedro sequence by Fran Manushkin

Lifelike Fiction

Book cover of Pedro series by Fran Manushkin, as an example of chapter books for second graders
Amazon

On this spin-off of the favored Katie Woo series, Katie’s buddy Pedro performs sports activities and goes on adventures, whereas additionally placing up together with his youthful brother. These shorter and simpler starting chapter books for second graders are good decisions for youths who like reasonable fiction.

Purchase it: Pedro series

3. King & Kayla sequence by Dori Hillestad Butler, illustrated by Nancy Meyers

Thriller

Book cover of King and Kayla series by Dori Hillestad Butler
Amazon

Kayla’s canine King narrates this charming and entertaining sequence by which proprietor and pup work collectively to resolve mild circumstances. These transitional books are nice for supporting fluency whereas participating readers, they usually’re good decisions for first thriller chapter books for second graders.

Purchase it: King & Kayla series

4. Little Bear sequence by Else Holmelund Minarik, illustrated by Maurice Sendak

Fiction

Book cover of Little Bear series by Elsa Holmelund Minarik
Amazon

Little Bear is a beloved traditional character who goes on adventures together with his animal associates however typically wants assist and steerage from Mom Bear. Imaginative tales provide loads of content material for second grade discussions about key particulars in textual content. Share these with second graders new to or hesitant about chapter books; easy phrase decisions and bigger textual content assist with readability.

Purchase it: Little Bear series

5. Henry and Mudge sequence by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Suçie Stevenson

Lifelike Fiction

Amazon

Henry is lonely, with out a sibling or associates on his block, so he asks his mother and father for a canine. From the second Henry meets his new canine Mudge, the 2 of them are inseparable. This candy sequence is completely reassuring for second grade readers who’re simply able to discover chapter books. The sentences are easy however the characters are stuffed with coronary heart.

Purchase it: Henry and Mudge series

6. Duck and Moose sequence by Kirk Reedstrom

Graphic Novel

Book cover of Duck and Moose by Kirk Reedstrom
Amazon

New neighbors Duck and Moose occur to be polar opposites, however can they reconcile their variations and turn into greatest buddies? This three-book sequence of graphic novel chapter books for second graders is hilarious. We wish to share them with youngsters who want a studying confidence enhance. They’re additionally supreme for explicitly educating youngsters how you can navigate the construction of a graphic novel.

Purchase it: Duck and Moose series

7. Peter & Ernesto sequence by Graham Annable

Graphic Novel

Peter and Ernesto series by Graham Annable, as an example of chapter books for second graders
Amazon

Peter is a homebody and Ernesto is an adventurer, however they’re loyal associates to one another. The lovable footage make youngsters snicker, whereas the easy language feels manageable. These make one other nice introduction to graphic novels for keen starting readers.

Purchase it: Peter & Ernesto series

Illustrated Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

Seven- and eight-year-olds do desperately need to learn chapter books—however in addition they nonetheless actually love poring over nice footage. These sequence carry the very best of each.

8. Mercy Watson sequence by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Chris Van Dusen

Fiction

Amazon

Mercy is an endearing pet pig who loves sizzling buttered toast and tends to trigger chaos in her neighborhood on Deckawoo Drive. The recognizable type of Chris Van Dusen makes these illustrated chapter books for second graders an ideal bridge from image books, whereas the lighthearted textual content is a stunning introduction to rock star writer Kate DiCamillo. These books work nicely for a number of functions, from read-aloud to ebook teams to impartial studying.

Purchase it: Mercy Watson series

9. The Princess in Black sequence by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Fantasy

The Princess in Black series by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale 
Amazon

The courageous Princess in Black is a superhero in secret, making fast wardrobe modifications when native monsters want managing. The recent tackle princesses and superheroes and the full of life full-color illustrations make these interesting decisions for readers who’re stretching their studying stamina to deal with longer books. We like studying aloud the primary ebook to introduce the sequence, then utilizing later installments, which have extra complicated tales and friendship themes, for impartial studying and ebook group discussions.

Purchase it: The Princess in Black series

10. The Unhealthy Guys sequence by Aaron Blabey

Graphic Novel

Book cover for The Bad Guys Book 1
Amazon

An eclectic group of rejected animals band collectively to attempt to restore their “Unhealthy Man” popularity by doing good. Hilarious and crowd pleasing, these quick-to-read illustrated chapter books for second graders are a well-liked alternative for impartial readers not fairly prepared for longer and extra text-heavy books.

Purchase it: The Bad Guys series

11. Orris and Timble triology by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Carmen Mok

Fiction

Book cover of Orris and Timble: The Beginning by Kate DiCamillo
Amazon

Orris the rat and Timble the owl strike up an uncommon and provoking friendship. Whereas the quantity of textual content is manageable, a few of the vocabulary and plot construction particulars are trickier. These mild tales are perfect for sharing and discussing as read-alouds or for suggesting to considerate readers prepared for a brand new problem.

Purchase it: Orris and Timble trilogy

12. Frankie and Associates sequence by Christine Platt, illustrated by Alea Marley

Lifelike Fiction

Book cover for Frankie and Friends: Breaking news as an example of second grade books
Amazon

Frankie’s mother is a busy TV information journalist, so Frankie learns so much about how present occasions unfold and get shared with the general public. She typically will get impressed to do her personal reporting too! This sequence is right to share as a category learn or ebook group textual content to enrich social research studying about well-known activists. Or you’ll be able to share it as inspiration for youths concerned with journalism.

Purchase it: Frankie and Friends series

Journey and Fantasy Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

We’ve seen numerous youngsters discover their private studying tastes after being launched to fascinating sequence of fantasy and journey chapter books for second graders.

13. Rainbow Magic sequence by Daisy Meadows

Fantasy

Amazon

Fairies, rainbows, and unicorns—what’s to not love? In every title, greatest associates Kirsty and Rachel enter a magical world to assist the fairy neighborhood. This fantastical sequence has over 200 titles, organized into smaller units of adventures, making it good for impartial readers who need to get misplaced within the magical world of books.

Purchase it: Rainbow Magic series

14. Magic Tree Home sequence by Mary Pope Osborne

Fantasy

Amazon

These wildly well-liked chapter books for second graders needed to make our listing! Siblings Jack and Annie uncover a tree home stuffed with books that ship them again in time. We’ve seen this sequence hook so many youngsters on studying that they’re a classroom must-have. They’re additionally improbable for constructing youngsters’ data about completely different locations, matters, and historic eras.

Purchase it: Magic Tree House series

15. Press Begin! sequence by Thomas Flintham

Graphic Novel

Amazon

Telling the story of characters embarking on online game adventures, this graphic novel sequence makes the reader really feel like they’re transported into the sport. Eye-catching illustrations and easy but compelling textual content encourage new chapter ebook readers—particularly those that additionally love video video games!

Purchase it: Press Start! series

16. Diary of an Ice Princess sequence by Christina Soontornvat

Fantasy

Book cover of Diary of an Ice Princess series by Christina Soontornvat 
Amazon

Princess and Windtamer Lina has particular powers however nonetheless needs to go to highschool with “groundlings” and her greatest buddy, Claudia. These tales stuffed with magic and journey additionally grapple with themes of identification and friendship. Cross these to youngsters who nonetheless really feel reassured by some illustrations and will use the arrogance enhance of a fast, fulfilling learn.

Purchase it: Diary of an Ice Princess series

17. Mia Mayhem sequence by Kara West, illustrated by Leeza Hernandez

Fantasy

Book cover of Mia Mayhem series by Kara West
Amazon

Mia’s life will get turned the wrong way up when she discovers she’s a superhero. She’s fairly certain she’s up for the duty, so long as she will determine how you can steadiness her new identification with being a daily child. The 13 books on this sequence are nice first chapter books for second graders who get pleasure from a little bit of motion and journey.

Purchase it: Mia Mayhem series

18. Lucy Lancaster sequence by Willow Coven, illustrated by Priscilla Burris

Fantasy

Book cover for Lucy Lancaster Has a Secret as an example of chapte books for 2nd graders
Amazon

This interesting sequence spinoff of the Heidi Heckelbeck series (additionally well-liked chapter books for second graders) stars Heidi’s classmate Lucy. After a sequence of sudden occasions unfolds at college, Lucy finds out she’s truly a witch. Recommend this sequence to youngsters who’re curious in regards to the Harry Potter books however positively not able to learn them solo. The writer does a pleasant job tapping into youngsters’ curiosity about magical powers whereas additionally tackling relatable elementary college feelings and themes.

Purchase it: Lucy Lancaster series

Lifelike Fiction Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

As second graders flip the nook from 7 to eight years previous, many youngsters begin to be more and more drawn to reasonable fiction. We discover these decisions to be each interesting and age-appropriate.

19. Alvin Ho sequence by Lenore Look, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Lifelike Fiction

Allergic To Girls book cover
Amazon

Alvin Ho is an Asian American second grader with a protracted listing of debilitating fears, the largest one being talking at college. With sturdy characters and emotional honesty, this sequence tackles anxiousness with humor and charm. Alvin’s trials together with his siblings and associates at college will hook impartial readers in want of a brand new and interesting sequence to maintain them studying.

Purchase it: Alvin Ho series 

20. Sadiq sequence by Siman Nuurali, illustrated by Anjan Sarkar

Lifelike Fiction

Amazon

Sadiq is a Somali American third grader who navigates real-life challenges of friendship, household, and college. On this sequence, he participates in lots of new actions together with his associates, whereas coping with being overlooked and feeling like he’s not ok. Add this sequence to your classroom library to signify a various neighborhood. We respect that it portrays a boy as its most important character too!

Purchase it: Sadiq series

21. Miles Lewis sequence by Kelly Starling Lyons, illustrated by Wayne Spencer

Lifelike Fiction

Miles Lewis series by Kelly Starling Lyons
Amazon

Miles loves science and could be very aggressive, however his anxiousness spikes when he has to go ice-skating for the primary time together with his fourth grade class. With a robust deal with buddy and household relationships, this sequence is each entertaining and discussion-worthy for impartial readers who get pleasure from reasonable tales. Bonus: It’s by the identical writer because the Jada Jones sequence, which we also recommend!

Purchase it: Miles Lewis series

22. Stink sequence by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds

Lifelike Fiction

Amazon

On this spin-off of the favored Judy Moody sequence, Judy’s brother Stink can not stand being the shortest child and does every little thing he can to get taller. Full of humor and coronary heart, these well-liked chapter books for second graders will entertain youngsters throughout impartial studying or ebook teams targeted on characters.

Purchase it: Stink series

23. Bibsy Cross sequence by Liz Garton Scanlon, illustrated by Dung Ho

Lifelike Fiction

Book cover for Bibsy Cross and the Bad Apple as an example of chapter books for 2nd graders
Amazon

Bibsy Cross is an endearing protagonist who loves her associates and college—although she tends to butt heads with authority figures who need her to tone it down a bit. Hand this sequence to your spirited second graders who get pleasure from character-driven tales. Bibsy provides off particular Ramona Quimby vibes, however the extra up to date language and particulars make these titles a bit simpler to navigate.

Purchase it: Bibsy Cross series

24. Jo Jo Makoons sequence by Daybreak Quigley, illustrated by Tara Audibert

Lifelike Fiction

Book cover for Jojo Makoons book 1 as an example of chapter books for 2nd graders
Amazon

Jo Jo Makoons is 7 years previous and lives on a fictional Ojibwe reservation. The books on this sequence share Jo Jo’s age-appropriate challenges with associates and normal life as a 7-year-old, with examples of Ojibwe tradition and language woven into her experiences. These are nice chapter books for second graders who like humorous books and memorable lady characters.

Purchase it: Jo Jo Makoons series

25. Planet Omar sequence by Zanib Mian, illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik

Lifelike Fiction

Book cover for Planet Omar: Accidental Trouble-Magnet as an example second grade books
Amazon

Energetic and constructive Omar strikes to a brand new college within the sequence opener, the place he should make associates, address bullies, and, in fact, discover loads of methods to have enjoyable. The illustrations and formatting make this sequence really feel like a youthful model of Diary of a Wimpy Child. Recommend these to youngsters who get pleasure from humorous and mishap-prone boy protagonists. Children much less accustomed to Muslim faith and tradition may have some assist constructing the data wanted to learn and perceive some particulars of the textual content.

Purchase it: Planet Omar series

26. Completely Alfie sequence by Sally Warner, illustrated by Shearry Malone

Lifelike Fiction

Amazon

Alfie is a robust and charismatic 7-year-old, sister to the primary character of the favored EllRay Jakes sequence. In every story, she navigates how you can clear up reasonable conflicts together with her family and friends. Relatable, humorous, and trustworthy, this sequence is a superb alternative for extra superior readers on the lookout for longer chapter books.

Purchase it: Absolutely Alfie series

27. The Cobble Avenue Cousins sequence by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Wendy Anderson Halperin

Lifelike Fiction

Amazon

This traditional sequence of chapter books for second graders tells the story of three cousins who begin a cookie enterprise, write a newspaper, and get entangled in all types of different inventive endeavors. “Previous soul” readers will get pleasure from these lighthearted tales which are harking back to easier time.

Purchase it: The Cobble Street Cousins series

Learn-Aloud Chapter Books for 2nd Graders

Studying chapter books for second graders aloud is a improbable probability to help youngsters in tackling extra superior language and content material. These titles all additionally work nicely for extra superior second grade impartial readers however are notably fulfilling for group sharing.

28. Gooney Hen Greene sequence by Lois Lowry, illustrated by Middy Thomas

Lifelike Fiction

Amazon

As the brand new scholar in her class, Gooney Hen Greene causes fairly a stir when she exhibits up sporting pajamas and cowboy boots. By her wild creativeness, Gooney teaches us the artwork of storytelling. Share this title to spark group discussions about character traits.

Purchase it: Gooney Bird Greene series

29. Toys Go Out sequence by Emily Jenkins, illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky

Fantasy

Toys Go Out series by Emily Jenkins
Amazon

Doesn’t each child surprise what it will be like if our toys and stuffed animals got here to life? This humorous, endearing trilogy about three particular toys explores that magical thought. These books have extensive attraction for group sharing and likewise work nicely for second graders who’re able to check out longer chapter books independently.

Purchase it: Toys Go Out series

30. Charlotte’s Net by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams

Fiction

Amazon

A younger lady named Fern befriends a particular pig named Wilbur whose destiny is unsure on her uncle’s farm. That is certainly one of our all-time favourite award-winning chapter books for second graders to learn aloud. Coronary heart-wrenching and profoundly stunning, this story will carry teams of listeners collectively and encourage wealthy dialogue.

Purchase it: Charlotte’s Web

31. Ramona sequence by Beverly Cleary

Lifelike Fiction

Beverly Cleary Books: Beezus and Ramona
Amazon

Ramona is an impartial spirit with plenty of opinions about her Nineteen Fifties childhood world. Studying aloud is the best context for introducing these traditional chapter books for second grade by timeless writer Beverly Cleary. We particularly like sharing the primary three books within the sequence, by which Ramona is youthful than second grade, as college students discover her “little child” antics hilarious.

Purchase it: Ramona series

Don’t neglect to seize your free printable listing of 2nd grade books!

Don’t forget to grab your free printable list of these preschool books for kids and teachers!
We Are Lecturers

For extra nice ebook lists, subscribe to our newsletters to obtain notifications once we put up new ones!

Plus, try these second grade classroom ideas for extra inspiration.

Check out this list to get your classroom hooked on our favorite chapter books for second graders, no matter their interests. Free printable!

Trending Merchandise

0
Add to compare
Crayola Crayons Bulk (24 Packs), Kids Back to School Essentials, Teacher Classroom Must Haves, Bulk School Supplies for Preschool & Kindergarten
0
Add to compare
Original price was: $48.99.Current price is: $23.50.
52%
0
Add to compare
Mr. Sketch Scented Markers Chisel Tip Marker Assorted Colors 12 Count
0
Add to compare
Original price was: $15.49.Current price is: $8.63.
44%
0
Add to compare
Oxford Two-Pocket Folders, Assorted Colors, Letter Size, 25 per box (57513)
0
Add to compare
Original price was: $17.99.Current price is: $9.90.
45%
0
Add to compare
Zebra Pen Z-Grip Retractable Ballpoint Pen, Medium Point, Black Ink, Model Number: 22218, 18-Pack (22218)
0
Add to compare
Original price was: $11.53.Current price is: $8.79.
24%
0
Add to compare
BIC Xtra-Strong Thick Lead Mechanical Pencil, With Colorful Barrel Thick Point (0.9mm), 24-Count Pack, With Erasers (MPLWP241)
0
Add to compare
Original price was: $8.99.Current price is: $4.64.
48%
0
Add to compare
Scissors, iBayam 8″ All Purpose Scissors Bulk 3-Pack, Ultra Sharp 2.5mm Thick Blade Shears Comfort-Grip for Office Desk Accessories Sewing Fabric Home Craft Teacher School Supplies, Right/Left Handed
0
Add to compare
Original price was: $19.99.Current price is: $9.99.
50%
0
Add to compare
Pentel RSVP Ballpoint Pen, (0.7mm), Fine Line, Black Ink, Pack of 5 (BK90PF5A)
0
Add to compare
$2.27
0
Add to compare
Sharpie Flip Chart Markers Bullet Tip Assorted Colors 8 Pack Low-Odor Squeak-Free
0
Add to compare
Original price was: $15.73.Current price is: $9.22.
41%
1
Add to compare
BIC Brite Liner Grip Pastel Highlighter Set, Chisel Tip, 12-Count Pack of Pastel Highlighters in Assorted Colors, Cute Highlighters for Bullet Journaling, Note Taking and More
1
Add to compare
Original price was: $15.43.Current price is: $7.79.
50%
.
We will be happy to hear your thoughts

Leave a reply

Classroom
Logo
Register New Account
Compare items
  • Total (0)
Compare
0
Shopping cart