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Nov 05

A Winter Reading List for Students of All Ages

by TA Staff

Winter is the perfect season to settle in with a great book, and we’ve curated a reading list that will engage, inspire, and expand perspectives for elementary, middle, and high school students alike. You’ll notice our list isn’t rigidly divided by grade—many of these books resonate across age groups, so feel free to explore. A strong reader in elementary might enjoy a middle school selection, while some middle schoolers might find a high school favorite that sparks new ideas. The goal? Keep students reading and growing!

We’ve also included nonfiction recommendations. While fiction remains popular—students spend about 25 minutes a day reading it—research from the Kaiser Family Foundation shows they only spend around 4 minutes daily on nonfiction. Introducing more nonfiction not only builds vocabulary and knowledge but also encourages curiosity about the world, helping young readers cultivate a lifelong love of reading through real-world stories and insights. So, dive in and explore a world of inspiration and discovery!

Elementary School Winter Reads

For Young Explorers: Fun Adventures and Big Lessons

  1. The BFG by Roald Dahl
    Explore a world where giants roam and dreams come to life. With humor and a touch of heart, this classic tale of friendship is perfect for readers who love fantasy.

  2. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
    Join Roz the robot on her journey of self-discovery as she learns to live in nature. This book introduces young readers to themes of resilience and connection.

  3. Muggie Maggie by Beverly Cleary
    For any student facing new challenges, Maggie’s story about learning cursive offers humor and relatable life lessons.

  4. The Baby-Sitters Club by Ann M. Martin
    This timeless series offers relatable stories of friendship and growing responsibility, with each character bringing a unique perspective.

  5. Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
    Part dog, part human, all hero—Dog Man’s adventures are packed with humor, action, and plenty of imagination, especially appealing for students who are new to reading on their own.

Middle School Winter Reads

For Curious Minds: Adventures and Life Lessons

  1. The Probability of Everything by Sarah Everett
    Kemi faces questions about identity and friendship as she discovers her place in the world. This is a beautifully written, thoughtful book for students navigating similar questions.

  2. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
    Dive into a modern mythological adventure where Percy Jackson discovers his connection to the Greek gods. It’s fast-paced, funny, and keeps readers turning pages.

  3. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
    This sci-fi classic offers timeless lessons on bravery and being true to oneself—ideal for those who enjoy thought-provoking adventures.

  4. Coraline by Neil Gaiman
    Perfect for readers with a love for mystery and suspense, Coraline’s journey through a parallel world reminds us of the importance of courage.

  5. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
    A thrilling dystopian story that raises questions about society, ethics, and courage. It’s a must-read for those ready to dig into deeper themes and complex characters.

High School Winter Reads

For Mature Readers: Stories of Identity, Resilience, and Growth

  1. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
    Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, explore themes of justice, empathy, and moral courage in this classic novel set in the American South.

  2. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
    Follow the March sisters as they each forge their paths. This classic speaks to anyone balancing family, ambition, and personal growth.

  3. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
    This memoir explores identity, resilience, and the strength to overcome hardship—a story with powerful life lessons for anyone facing their own challenges.

  4. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
    A tale of friendship, loyalty, and belonging, this book is especially relatable for students examining social dynamics and identity.

  5. The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
    Through Esperanza’s story, students will see themes of community and aspiration. It’s a moving book that speaks to the journey of finding oneself.

Nonfiction for Inquisitive Readers

Explore Real Stories and Discover New Perspectives

Elementary School Nonfiction:

  • I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark by Debbie Levy
    Discover the inspiring story of Justice Ginsburg, a champion for equality and justice from a young age.

  • My Journey to the Stars by Scott Kelly
    Astronaut Scott Kelly’s journey to space inspires students to dream big and reach for the stars—literally!

  • Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World by Vashti Harrison
    Featuring the true stories of 35 women creators, ranging from writers to inventors, artists to scientists.

Middle School Nonfiction:

  • I Am Malala: Young Readers Edition by Malala Yousafzai
    A powerful story of courage and activism, Malala’s memoir shows readers the impact one person can have on the world.

  • The Faithful Spy: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Plot to Kill Hitler by John Hendrix
    This illustrated narrative brings history to life, portraying the bravery required to stand up against injustice.

  • The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Young Readers’ Edition by William Kamkwamba
    This exciting memoir shows how, even in a desperate situation, one boy’s brilliant idea can light up the world.

High School Nonfiction:

  • Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
    A compelling story about Chris McCandless’s quest for freedom in the Alaskan wilderness, touching on the universal drive to seek independence and self-understanding.

  • The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
    This story brings to light the intersection of science, ethics, and human rights—a fascinating read for students interested in social issues and biology.

  • The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater
    This story explores the connection between two Oakland teenagers from vastly different backgrounds, whose lives are forever altered after a single impulsive act on a bus leads to a devastating injury and a high-stakes legal case.

What’s Next?

As winter sets in, there’s no better time to encourage a love for reading that supports both academic growth and personal enjoyment. Each book on this list offers something unique—whether it’s sparking curiosity, building empathy, or deepening comprehension skills. For students looking to gain mastery in English language arts, our group classes are here to provide structured support and targeted practice, from literary analysis to advanced reading strategies. Visit our Group Class Portal to explore our offerings and book a free trial to experience the difference firsthand. Let’s make this winter a season of reading and growth!

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