One of the most common questions I see from parents of gifted kids goes something like this “My kid is reading years beyond grade level. Does anyone know of good books that aren’t scary or inappropriate?”
Our kids can be voracious, advanced readers, but thanks to asynchronous development they may also be extra sensitive or otherwise just not ready for content designed for older kids.
I’ll keep this post updated with book ideas for your precocious readers, and I hope you will also chime in with your recommendations in the comments.
The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques
Heroic medieval animals aren’t for everyone, but if the subject matter does tickle your kid’s fancy, there are plenty of books in Brian Jacques’ Redwall series to keep them busy for a while. Lexile measure 800L.
My son was so thrilled with Redwall that I gifted him the entire series (painstakingly conjured up from various used book websites and eBay) for his ninth birthday. Years later he still reaches for them.
There are a few Jacques books outside the series as well.
The Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborn
This much-loved series is excellent for younger kids who are just starting chapter books, and the series is expansive (currently up to 55 fiction books)!
My younger son was a reluctant reader until Magic Tree House helped him find his confidence. At age six, he devours them! I love that he learns facts about history, science, nature and more from these fun fictional books. Older kids might enjoy these easier fact-based reads now and then, too.
If readers want to learn more about the topics from the fiction books, there is also a Fact Tracker series (42 of them, so far) based on Osborn’s in-depth research.
Reading Lists
Age-Appropriate Books for Advanced Readers from the Seattle Public Library
Suggestions?
New book or series suggestions are always welcome and appreciated! If you have a great read to suggest, please comment below!