Best books for early readers
First chapter books, giggle-out-loud series and stories to read together. Ages 6 to 8 are the years children discover they can read a whole book on their own.
Something big happens around six or seven. Children begin to move from sounding out words to reading with fluency. A first chapter book, with a few illustrations and short chapters, can feel like climbing a mountain, and the best of them make the climb fun.
At the same time, children at this age can enjoy stories that are far above the level they can read independently. The trick is to keep both going: books they can read themselves, and books you read to them.
What to look for in an early reader
- Short chapters that give a feeling of progress.
- Large, clear print and plenty of white space.
- Illustrations that break up the text and support the story.
- Humour, adventure or animals, which help children keep going when the words get tough.
- Series, because a child who loves the first book usually reads the next one on their own.
Two kinds of reading, both important
Independent reading builds confidence and fluency. Choose books that are slightly easy so your child feels successful.
Shared reading builds vocabulary and a love of stories. Choose books that are a bit harder, with richer language, and take turns reading pages.
Ten books for readers aged 6–8
The Magic Faraway Tree
By Enid Blyton
A family discover an enchanted tree with a new magical land at the top every week. The short chapters and exciting cliffhangers make this a satisfying read-aloud or first long read.
Fantastic Mr Fox
By Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
A clever fox outwits three mean farmers to feed his family. It is short, fast and funny, which makes it a good first Dahl.
The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark
By Jill Tomlinson
Plop, a baby barn owl, learns about the beauty of the night. A gentle, reassuring story for readers who have their own worries about the dark.
Charlotte’s Web
By E. B. White
A pig, a spider and a barn full of unforgettable animals. A wonderful book to read aloud, and one many children go on to read for themselves at eight or nine.
The Legend of Spud Murphy
By Eoin Colfer, illustrated by Tony Ross
Two brothers are sent to the library, where a fearsome librarian is said to lurk. Colfer, from Wexford, delivers a quick, comic tale that celebrates books.
The Giggler Treatment
By Roddy Doyle, illustrated by Brian Ajhar
Mister Mack is about to be “giggled”, and the children are in on it. Doyle’s Dublin humour makes this a very funny pick for Irish readers.
Dog Man
By Dav Pilkey
A graphic novel about a policeman with a dog’s head. It is silly, speedy and a great hook for children who say they do not like reading.
You’re a Bad Man, Mr Gum!
By Andy Stanton, illustrated by David Tazzyman
Absurd, madcap and full of daft jokes. Ideal for children who love to laugh.
The Worst Witch
By Jill Murphy
Mildred Hubble is hopeless at magic, yet always manages to save the day. A cosy boarding-school series that has kept children hooked for years.
Pippi Longstocking
By Astrid Lindgren
The strongest girl in the world lives alone with a horse and a monkey. Mischief, kindness and a spirit of independence in every chapter.
Tips for helping your child along
- Read together every day, even when your child can read alone. Take turns with pages or chapters.
- Let your child choose. Comics, joke books and non-fiction all count as reading.
- Stay positive about mistakes. Gently model the right word and move on. Interrupting every error takes the fun out of it.
- Make a cosy reading spot with a lamp, a cushion and a basket of books close at hand.
Frequently asked questions
What reading level should my 7-year-old be at?
It varies a lot. Many seven-year-olds are reading simple chapter books, while others are still building confidence with shorter texts. If your child is struggling, speak to their teacher, who can tell you how they are progressing and suggest next steps.
Is it okay if my child reads comics and graphic novels?
Yes. Graphic novels build comprehension, vocabulary and a love of stories. For many children they are the book that finally makes reading click.
Should I still read aloud to a child who can read?
Yes. Children can understand and enjoy stories well above their independent reading level, and shared stories keep the habit of reading together alive.
How do I find books at the right level?
Ask a librarian, choose a series, or try the “five finger” rule: open to a page and count the words your child cannot read. More than about five suggests the book may be too difficult for now.
Next stop: books for ages 9–12.