This year my oldest son began venturing to a new section of the library because he now has the ability to read and enjoy chapter books independently. Watching him read on the couch, on his bed, or in the car is a beautiful, beautiful thing! I can’t help but smile when he suddenly giggles or sounds a word out aloud. I especially love when he reads to his younger brother! In this post, I share his favorites—10 beginning chapter book series for kids—that are sure to excite and inspire young readers.
This post contains affiliate links. Opinions are my own.
Captain Awesome series by Stan Kirby
Eugene McGillicudy just happens to be the most awesome superhero of all time…Captain Awesome! With the help of his sidekick, Nacho Cheese Man, he strives to stop all evilness. My boys love this series, and I enjoy reading it in an exciting, melodramatic voice.
Ballpark Mysteries series by David A. Kelly
We love this series because each story is set in a different ballpark across America! We haven’t made it to book 11 yet, but my husband can’t wait (he is a Tiger’s fan!). Thanks to Kate’s mom, a sports reporter, cousins Mike Walsh and Kate Hopkins get to travel across the country to enjoy baseball games and solve mysteries!
The Kingdom of Wrenly series by Jordan Quinn
Join Lucas, an 8-year old prince, and Clara, the daughter of the queen’s seamstress, on adventures around the lands of Wrenly. My kids love the engaging plots and illustrations!
Dragon Masters series by Tracey West
One of my favorite illustrated series for newly independent readers, Dragon Masters is exciting, fun, and easy to read. Join 8-year old, Drake, and the other young Dragon Masters as they learn to train and connect with their dragons.
The Haunted Library series by Dori Hillestad Butler
The characters in this amusing series are Kaz, a 9-year old ghost, and Claire, the granddaughter of the woman that owns the library that Kaz “haunts.” The pair become quick friends and join forces to solve mysteries, enjoy adventures, and help each other through difficult situations.
Geronimo Stilton series by Elisabetta Dami
Geronimo Stilton is a best-selling author and journalist on Mouse Island. His thrilling and often dangerous adventures inspire his books. The graphic treatment given to these full-color novels delights my children!
Nate the Great series by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat
Kids have been enjoying Nate the Great since 1977! This series introduces young readers to the world of mysteries, clues, and detectives.
How to Train Your Dragon series by Cressida Cowell
This series isn’t quite for beginners, but is fun to read aloud at story time. (Listening to stories is just as important as reading to self!) This imaginative series chronicles the adventures of Hiccup, as he tries to pass his Viking initiation. (Spoiler Alert! The books are better than the movie!)
Ricky Ricottas’s Mighty Robot series by Dav Pilkey
“I like this book because I like the Mighty Robot. He’s a superhero robot. He saves the day. The books are exciting and I can read them all by myself.” —Colin, age 7
Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne
This classic time-travel fantasy has been well-loved by children since the early ’90s! Join Jack and Annie on their adventures back in time as they learn about ancient civilizations, dinosaurs, and important historical events.
What exciting chapter book series have your children discovered?
