We’ve put together a list of the best books for 6th grade girls including everything from fantasy to historical fiction to your next favourite Book series.

At this grade level, reading can be more than just an assignment; it can be an adventure, a road to self-discovery, and a great way to spend time with best friends or family. Our list aims to cater to a variety of interests – whether you’re into graphic novels, historical fiction, or just a good book that you can’t put down.

We’ve organized this guide into specific sections that explore different types of books. Whether you’re a Young girl looking for relatable main characters or parents seeking the perfect book for your 6th grade girl, we’ve got you covered. From best books to favourite books, we’ll give you a rundown on what’s popular, impactful, and just plain fun.

So, whether you’re tackling a new school year, looking for a great book for a book report, or just searching for some awesome reading material, read on. We’ve even included some tips for busy middle schoolers on how many books to consider reading during the school year.

What Books Every 6th Grade Girl Should Read?

With so many options, where should 6th graders even begin? No worries—we’ve got a stellar book list ready to make your reading experience a memorable one. These books are handpicked for their developmental benefits, such as improving empathy, boosting confidence, and broadening perspectives.

The Benefits

Before we dive into our list of books, let’s quickly talk about why these reads are beneficial for 6th graders. For one, a good book can help young readers understand complex feelings and situations, offering a safe way to explore new ideas. They can also introduce 6th grade girls to strong and diverse main characters, helping them to see a reflection of themselves or learn about others in the world around them.

The List

1. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio – A powerful story about a young boy with a facial difference navigating a new school. This is a fantastic read for 6th graders to cultivate empathy and understanding.
2. “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling – If you haven’t introduced your 6th grade girl to the magical world of Harry Potter, now’s the time. It’s the first book in a series that offers great themes of friendship and courage.
3. “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery – A timeless classic that transports readers to the beautiful landscape of Prince Edward Island. It revolves around Anne, an imaginative young girl who finds a new life with her adoptive parents.
4. “Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan – Perfect for 6th graders interested in mythology. The main character, Percy, discovers he’s a demigod and must find Zeus’ stolen lightning bolt.
5. “Roller Girl” by Victoria Jamieson – This graphic novel is perfect for fans of strong, independent girls and roller derby. The main character learns about hard work, friendship, and belonging.
6. “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson – A heartwarming story about two best friends, Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke, who create their own magical kingdom. It’s a Newbery Honor book that deals with friendship and loss.
7. “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins – For those who love dystopian settings, this book is a must-read. It’s perfect for older 6th graders and explores themes of survival and social injustice.
8. “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo – A touching story about a young girl who moves to a new town and adopts a stray dog, leading to friendships and a sense of community.
9. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry – A thought-provoking book that transports 6th graders to a seemingly perfect society, only to unravel its dark secrets.
10. “Matilda” by Roald Dahl – A favourite book for many, this tale showcases a young girl’s journey from neglect to realizing her extraordinary abilities, thanks to some caring individuals.

What Classic Books Should a 6th Grader Read?

These books have stood the test of time and continue to captivate readers generation after generation. Introducing classics to 6th graders can be incredibly rewarding. Not only do these books offer rich language and storytelling, but they also introduce young readers to universal themes and life lessons that are just as relevant today.

Why Start Early?

Reading classics in the sixth grade is like opening a treasure chest of timeless wisdom. These stories offer layers of meaning that can be revisited as a reader grows, making the experience richer each time. Plus, getting familiar with classics early on can make high school literature classes less intimidating!

Adaptations For Younger Readers

Worried some classics might be a little too dense? The good news is there are many adaptations designed for younger readers, preserving the essence of the original work while making it accessible for a 6th-grade reading level. So, don’t rule out “War and Peace” just yet!

The List

1. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee (Adapted Versions Available) – This book explores racial inequality in the United States. Though the subject matter is heavy, the perspective of young Scout Finch makes it accessible and highly educational for sixth graders.
2. “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott – This book offers strong female characters and a close-knit family dynamic. It’s a great way for 6th-grade girls to learn about the lives of young women in a different time period.
3. “Treasure Island” by Robert Louis Stevenson – Pirates, treasure maps, and adventure—what’s not to love? This is a perfect book to spark the imagination and teach a lesson or two about loyalty and hard work.
4. “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett – This enchanting story about a neglected garden and two lonely children teaches powerful lessons about friendship and the magic of nature.
5. “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery – Yes, it appears again because it’s that good. Anne is a character that many 6th-grade girls find relatable, with themes of friendship and self-discovery at its core.
6. “Black Beauty” by Anna Sewell – This is not just a horse story; it’s a tale about kindness, hard times, and the importance of treating all living beings with respect.
7. “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll – This whimsical story helps stretch the imagination and can serve as an introduction to the absurd and the fantastical.
8. “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White – Though often read in earlier grades, this story of friendship and sacrifice has layers of meaning that older kids can appreciate too.
9. “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” by Mark Twain – A lively tale set along the Mississippi River, this book offers a snapshot of American life during the late 1800s.
10. “The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame – This charming story about anthropomorphic animals is a great book for sixth graders to explore themes of friendship and adventure.

What Are Good Chapter Books for 6th Grade Girls?

Let’s talk chapter books. As 6th graders, you’re probably no stranger to these longer reads. Chapter books have the magical ability to keep readers hooked for days, if not weeks, allowing for more complex plots and character development compared to early chapter books.

The Perks of Chapter Books

Chapter books are like mini-series in print form; they offer a chance to follow a main character or a set of favourite characters through a range of adventures, experiences, or challenges. They allow for a richer reading experience and can cover a variety of genres, from mystery and fantasy to realistic fiction and historical stories.

A Genre for Everyone

Whether you love being transported to magical worlds or diving into the lives of relatable young girls and boys, there’s likely a chapter book out there just for you. We have compiled a list of chapter books that are not only captivating but also diverse in genre.

The Recommendations

1. “The Mysterious Benedict Society” by Trenton Lee Stewart – This book is for those who love puzzles and mysteries. Four gifted children are selected for a secret mission and must use their intellect and courage to save the world.
2. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” by Jeff Kinney – This book speaks to the inner awkward middle school student in all of us. It’s relatable, funny, and perfect for reluctant readers.
3. “A Series of Unfortunate Events” by Lemony Snicket – Dark but delightful, this series takes readers through the tumultuous lives of the Baudelaire orphans as they evade the nefarious Count Olaf.
4. “The Penderwicks” by Jeanne Birdsall – A beautiful story of four sisters and their summer adventures, this book is an ode to classic children’s literature but with a modern twist.
5. “Holes” by Louis Sachar – Stanley Yelnats is sent to a juvenile detention center but finds that hard work and friendship can uncover more than just holes in the ground.
6. “The Crossover” by Kwame Alexander – Written in verse, this National Book Award winner explores the lives of twins Josh and Jordan as they navigate basketball, family, and growing up.
7. “The City of Ember” by Jeanne DuPrau – In a city running out of light, it’s up to two twelve-year-olds to find the only way to save their home.
8. “Frindle” by Andrew Clements – Who knew a pen could be so exciting? This story is about a young boy who invents a new word and sees it become a nationwide sensation.
9. “Walk Two Moons” by Sharon Creech – This Newbery Honor book takes readers on a young girl’s emotional journey to understand her mother’s disappearance.
10. “The Girl Who Drank the Moon” by Kelly Barnhill – Filled with magic and wonder, this book features a young girl who gains incredible powers from moonlight, setting her on a path to confront dark forces.

Best Book Series for 6th Grade Girls

If you’ve ever reached the end of a good book and thought, “I wish there was more,” then book series are your new best friends. There’s something incredibly satisfying about following characters through multiple adventures, right?

Why Series Are Awesome

Series offer a chance for character and plot development that can’t typically be accomplished in a single book. They offer a wonderful way to escape reality and get lost in a familiar world for an extended period. Plus, if you’re falling in love with the main character or a whole cast of characters, why not spend three, four, or even more books with them?

Popular Picks for 6th Grade Girls

Here are some popular book series that have charmed the hearts of many 6th-grade girls:

1. “Harry Potter” by J.K. Rowling – What’s not to love about a young boy discovering he’s a wizard and his adventures at Hogwarts? Ideal for 6th graders who love magic and the battle between good and evil.
2. “Percy Jackson & The Olympians” by Rick Riordan – This series is a great way to learn about Greek mythology while following Percy Jackson’s quests and adventures.
3. “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins – Set in a dystopian world, Katniss Everdeen volunteers for the annual Hunger Games to save her younger sister. A powerful story of survival and resistance.
4. “Dork Diaries” by Rachel Renée Russell – Follow Nikki Maxwell’s humorous adventures in middle school, dealing with best friends and social media, in this fun-filled series.
5. “The Babysitters Club” by Ann M. Martin – This series is an oldie but a goodie. It’s all about friendship, hard work, and the challenges and rewards of running a business at a young age.
6. “Anne of Green Gables” Series by Lucy Maud Montgomery – After the first book, Anne’s adventures continue as she grows up, making this series perfect for 6th-grade girls to follow over a couple of years.
7. “His Dark Materials” by Philip Pullman – A young girl named Lyra embarks on an epic journey through parallel universes. Great for those who enjoy more complex themes and a touch of philosophy.
8. “Wings of Fire” by Tui T. Sutherland – If you love dragons, then this series is for you. It’s all about young dragonets who may be destined to end a brutal war.
9. “A Series of Unfortunate Events” by Lemony Snicket – Yes, it’s worth mentioning again for series lovers. The Baudelaire siblings navigate misadventures and mysteries while evading the wicked Count Olaf.
10. “Warriors” by Erin Hunter – Follow the lives of feral cats as they strive to survive and protect their clans. Perfect for animal lovers and those who enjoy stories about loyalty and bravery.

Best Short Books for 6th Grade Girls

If you’re juggling homework, extracurriculars, and social life, you might be thinking, “Who has time for a lengthy novel?” No worries, shorter books can be just as impactful as their longer counterparts!

The Magic of Short Books

Length doesn’t dictate the quality of a book. Short books are perfect for those times when you want a complete story in a single sitting. They can be particularly great for reluctant readers who might find a hefty tome a bit intimidating. Plus, they can deliver powerful stories or introduce you to great themes and main characters in a concise format.

Perfect Quick Reads for 6th Grade Girls

Ready to add some quick but fulfilling reads to your book list? Here we go!

1. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry – Dive into a world where everything seems perfect, but a young boy discovers the dark truth. This Newbery Honor book packs a lot into its modest page count.
2. “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson – Follow the friendship of Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke as they create a magical kingdom. It’s a short but powerful story about friendship and loss.
3. “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White – A young girl and a pig named Wilbur explore themes of friendship and sacrifice. Perfect if you’re an animal lover!
4. “The Tale of Despereaux” by Kate DiCamillo – If you’re into fairytales and adventures, this book about a brave mouse is an excellent quick read.
5. “Maniac Magee” by Jerry Spinelli – This is a fast-paced story about a young boy trying to find a home while breaking down racial barriers. It’s perfect for a thoughtful afternoon read.
6. “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo – Ever thought a dog could change your life? This book explores friendship and community, all wrapped up in a few hundred pages.
7. “Sideways Stories from Wayside School” by Louis Sachar – Perfect for those who love humor and quirky tales. Meet the unusual students and staff in a 30-story high school!
8. “Sarah, Plain and Tall” by Patricia MacLachlan – This book tells the story of a young girl and her brother getting to know their new adoptive mother. It’s a heartwarming tale that’s easy to finish in one sitting.
9. “The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate – Narrated by a gorilla, this book is a touching story about friendship and freedom, ideal for animal lovers.
10. “Island of the Blue Dolphins” by Scott O’Dell – Based on true events, this book follows a young girl who must survive alone on an island. It’s both a survival story and a tale of personal growth.

Whether you’re a 6th grader wanting to finish a story before bed or a parent looking for engaging reads that won’t overwhelm you, these shorter books offer lots of enjoyment and life lessons in just a few pages.

Best Fantasy Books for 6th Grade Girls

The magical worlds, epic quests, and unforgettable characters—fantasy books are an absolute delight. But besides being purely entertaining, they’ve got a lot to offer to young readers, especially those awesome 6th graders.

The Allure of Fantasy

Fantasy books often present complex moral dilemmas that help young readers sharpen their understanding of right and wrong. They introduce diverse magical worlds where the main character often undergoes a journey of self-discovery and hard work. Additionally, the genre allows for a fun way to escape the real world and stimulates creativity, giving flight to the imagination.

A Magical List of Fantasy Books

So, if you’re a 6th grader on the lookout for a spellbinding adventure, or a parent trying to encourage a love for reading, here’s your go-to list of fantasy books:

1. “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling – It’s hard not to start with this one. Follow Harry as he embarks on his magical journey in the wizarding world, making both friends and enemies along the way.
2. “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis – Four siblings stumble upon a magical world and become embroiled in a battle between good and evil.
3. “Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan – Discover Greek gods in modern-day America with Percy Jackson, a twelve-year-old boy who learns he’s a demigod.
4. “Ella Enchanted” by Gail Carson Levine– A young girl cursed with obedience tries to navigate life’s challenges. It’s a twist on the Cinderella story with a strong female main character.
5. “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle – Join Meg Murry, her brother Charles, and friend Calvin as they travel through time and space to rescue her missing father.
6. “The Golden Compass” by Philip Pullman – Lyra, the young protagonist, sets out on an epic quest to understand a mysterious phenomenon called Dust.
7. “Artemis Fowl” by Eoin Colfer – Meet Artemis Fowl, a twelve-year-old genius who decides to capture a fairy and demand a ransom in gold. A delightful blend of magic and modern technology!
8. “The Neverending Story” by Michael Ende – Dive into a book within a book, as a young boy reads about a hero’s quest to save a magical world.
9. “Tuck Everlasting” by Natalie Babbitt – What if you could live forever? Winnie Foster stumbles upon a family with a remarkable secret and must decide if eternal life is a blessing or a curse.
10. “Howl’s Moving Castle” by Diana Wynne Jones – Follow Sophie as she gets cursed by a witch and seeks refuge in a walking, talking castle owned by the wizard Howl.

If you’re ready to get lost in magical worlds, epic quests, and life-changing adventures, these fantasy books should be on your must-read list.

Best Historical Fiction Books for 6th Grade Girls

Historical fiction is such a wonderful genre; it’s like stepping into a time machine built out of paper and ink. But these books offer more than just a trip to a different era. They often pack educational punches, bring historical events to life, and provide fresh perspectives on times gone by.

Why Historical Fiction is a Timeless Choice

Why is historical fiction so beneficial for 6th graders? Besides being absolutely riveting, these books help young readers understand diverse cultures and historical periods. They also introduce young girls to strong female main characters who’ve faced incredible challenges in different settings—from the cobblestone streets of colonial America to the wartime landscapes of Europe. They make history come alive in a way that textbooks just can’t.

A Walk Through Time: Book Recommendations

Ready to time travel? Here are some top historical fiction picks suitable for 6th grade girls.

1. “Number the Stars” by Lois Lowry – This powerful story takes you to World War II Denmark, following a young girl who helps her Jewish best friend escape the Nazis.
2. “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery – While not strictly historical fiction, the setting and period details of late 19th-century Canada are beautifully portrayed as you follow Anne Shirley’s adventures.
3. “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott – Journey to the United States of the 1860s and meet the March sisters as they navigate love, loss, and growing up during the Civil War.
4. “The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963” by Christopher Paul Curtis – Take a road trip with an African American family from Michigan to Alabama during the civil rights movement, encountering both humor and heartbreak along the way.
5. “Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan – Experience the life of a young girl who moves from Mexico to the United States during the Great Depression, learning hard work and resilience.
6. “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry” by Mildred D. Taylor – Follow a young African American girl in the southern United States during the 1930s as she navigates racial injustice and family bonds.
7. “Inside Out and Back Again” by Thanhha Lai – Written in verse, this book tells the story of a young Vietnamese girl who flees her home country to settle in the United States during the Vietnam War.
8. “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak – Set in Nazi Germany, this book is narrated by Death and focuses on a young girl who finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others.
9. “A Night Divided” by Jennifer A. Nielsen – Experience the thrill of trying to escape East Berlin after the rise of the Berlin Wall through the eyes of a 12-year-old girl.
10. “Island of the Blue Dolphins” by Scott O’Dell – Based on true events, this story portrays a young Native American girl who spends years alone on an island off the coast of California.

So there you have it! If you’re a 6th grade girl looking for adventures that span different times and places, or if you’re a parent interested in enriching your daughter’s understanding of history, these books are worth a read.

Best Story Books for Grade 6 Girls

Storybooks aren’t just for little kids; they’ve got a lot to offer to 6th graders too. From thought-provoking narratives to meaningful life lessons, storybooks are more than just short tales to pass the time. They can be epic adventures, heartfelt dramas, or even slice-of-life stories that reflect the challenges and triumphs of ordinary life.

The Power of Storybooks

So, why should storybooks be part of a 6th grader’s reading repertoire? First off, these books often present relatable scenarios or characters, helping young readers identify their own feelings and challenges. A well-chosen storybook can serve as a window into different cultures, families, and life situations, contributing to both intellectual and emotional development.

Must-Read Storybooks: Our Recommendations

Ready to discover your next favourite book? Here we go!

1. “The Tale of Despereaux” by Kate DiCamillo – This book captures the adventures of a tiny mouse with huge ears and an even bigger heart. It’s a tale about bravery, love, and the importance of being true to oneself.
2. “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” by Grace Lin – This storybook, steeped in Chinese folklore, follows a young girl on a quest to change her family’s fortune. Along her journey, she meets a host of colourful characters and learns important life lessons.
3. “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo – A young girl moves to a new town and adopts a stray dog, Winn-Dixie. Through her adventures with her new best friend, she learns about friendship, family, and the power of community.
4. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio – While not a traditional storybook, this powerful story about a young boy with a facial deformity entering public school for the first time offers great themes on empathy and kindness.
5. “Matilda” by Roald Dah – A gifted young girl navigates life with unappreciative and neglectful parents, finding solace in her love for reading and in her supportive teacher.
6. “Holes” by Louis Sachar – In this layered tale, a young boy is wrongly sent to a juvenile detention camp and discovers a complex history buried in the desert landscape.
7. “The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate – Based on true events, this story is told from the perspective of Ivan, a gorilla living in a shopping mall, offering insights into friendship and the need for a better life.
8. “Frindle” by Andrew Clementss – A storybook that revolves around a young boy who invents a new word, sparking a series of unforeseen and entertaining events.
9. “Walk Two Moons” by Sharon Creech – A road-trip story that serves as a journey of self-discovery for a young girl dealing with loss.
10. “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson – This touching tale delves into the friendship between two lonely children who create an imaginary kingdom to escape their daily lives.

So there you have it, a wonderful list of storybooks perfect for 6th grade girls! Whether you’re a 6th grader looking to dive into compelling stories or a parent hoping to help your daughter explore different worlds and emotions, these books are fantastic places to start.

Best Books for 6th Grade Book Reports

Book reports are a staple of the school year and a fantastic way to dive deep into a good book. But how do you pick the perfect book that’s not only engaging but also offers substance for a thorough analysis?

Tips on How to Pick Your Next Book Report Gem

Firstly, consider your interests. Whether you’re a fan of mysteries, historical fiction, or even nonfiction books about powerful people and events, choose a book that piques your interest. This will make the entire process much more enjoyable.

Secondly, look at the length of the book. If you’re pressed for time, you might want to opt for a shorter book that you can read quickly but still offers great themes and characters for analysis.

Lastly, consider the complexity of the book. A book with multi-faceted characters and intricate plot lines will provide you with more material to discuss in your report.

Book Report Worthy Reads: Our Recommendations

Ready to find that ideal book? Let’s get to it!

1. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee – A classic that dives into racial tensions in the southern United States. This book is a treasure trove for deep analysis on themes of justice and morality.
2. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry – This book offers an in-depth look at a dystopian society where choices are made for you. It’s a great pick for discussing the complexities of freedom and conformity.
3. “Hatchet” by Gary Paulsen – A young boy survives a plane crash and has to make it on his own in the wilderness. This book is perfect for discussing themes of resilience and hard work.
4. “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton – Focused on teenage struggles with class difference and the concept of “belonging,” this book is rich in themes that 6th graders can relate to.
5. “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling – Believe it or not, even magical worlds have a lot to analyze. From friendship to the battle between good and evil, this popular book is more than just an adventure tale.
6. “Tuck Everlasting” by Natalie Babbitt – An exploration of the concept of eternal life, this book opens up interesting avenues for discussing the natural cycle of life and death.
7. “Coraline” by Neil Gaiman – This spooky tale offers a wealth of material for a book report, from its in-depth character studies to its themes of bravery and the true meaning of home.
8. “Maniac Magee” by Jerry Spinelli – A book that deals with issues like homelessness and racial prejudice, providing a lot of depth for a report.
9. “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis – A timeless fantasy that is rich in symbolism and themes like good vs evil, it’s a compelling choice for a thoughtful report.
10. “The Westing Game” by Ellen Raskin – A complex mystery with a large cast of characters, this book provides ample opportunity for analysis and discussion.

So whether you’re a 6th grader hunting for that perfect book for your upcoming report, or a parent aiming to guide your child in making a superb choice, this list is a great place to start. Happy book-reporting!