Beyond Harry Potter: Books Your 5th-7th Grader Should Read

As a child I was a voracious reader. I read nearly every book in my school library and I read my favorites over and over. There are a few books that have stuck in my mind. These books were ones that made me laugh, cry, and consider the world as it was and as it now is. These are books that I think every child should read. It is difficult for me to know exactly the reading level of these books, but I would suggest they are appropriate for 5^th through 7^th grade students- depending on the student's personal reading proficiency and maturity level. I have marked a suggested reading level, but use your own judgment.

The Whipping Boy (RL 4.8) - The Whipping Boy by Sid Fleischman is a story about an orphan named Jemmy who was taken in to the castle to be the whipping boy for Prince Brat. Jemmy must take the punishment for Prince Brat's rule-breaking and mischief and plans to run away. This story is a fictional representation of actual historical events.

The Lottery Rose (RL 7.7) - The Lottery Rose by Irene Hunt is a story about a boy, Georgie, who is severely abused by his mother's boyfriend. Georgie is a sad, angry boy who doesn't trust anyone. The prize of a rosebush is a pivotal moment in 7 year old Georgie's life. The young boy is taken in at an orphanage where the nuns are loving and kind. His adversarial relationship with the neighbor across the street turns out to be a very important relationship for him. This story shows how love can change the heart.

My Brother Sam is Dead (RL 5.8) - My Brother Sam is Dead by James Lincoln Collier is a story set during the revolutionary war. Tim's brother Sam had gone off to fight the war as a patriot and looses his life. Tim's parents are British loyalists. There comes a point where Tim must decide where he stands. This story is a fictional representation of actual historical events.

Goodnight Mr. Tom (RL 5.8) - Goodnight Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian is about Willie, a young boy from London sent to live in the country during the war. Willie is reluctantly taken in by an old man who grows to love him as a son. Willie comes from a very abusive mother who sends instructions for her son's caregiver to continue her abuse. The old man, Tom, is outraged and disgusted at the treatment Willie received in his home. Willie learns how to live in a caring home and makes friends in the village. He is eventually sent back to his mother in London and after a traumatic experience is sent back to Mr. Tom to stay. This story is takes place in a historical setting, and teaches not only about the experiences of children in London during the war, but also about the effects of a loving environment on a child who has been mistreated.

I first read these books in the 5^th and 6^th grade, and continued to enjoy them for years afterward. I was intrigued by the historical events and was driven to learn more. I related to the characters and was encouraged by the (mostly) happy endings. I hope your children or students will enjoy them as I did.