The 100 Best Books for 3rd Graders Ultimate Guide

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If you are looking for an all-inclusive list of the best books for 3rd graders, then you have found it!!  

With over 100 individual book titles plus ten huge collections of books, even your most hesitant reader will find something enticing!

I’ve tried to group this book list in the most logical way starting with the best chapter books divided into collections (those with over 20 books), book series, graphic novels, and by author.

So, let’s take a look at the best books for 3rd graders that your students will love!

The Best Chapter Book Collections

The Boxcar Children

The Boxcar Children series is a cherished collection of over 150 children’s mystery novels written by the American author Gertrude Chandler Warner. 

The series, which began in 1924, has captivated young readers for generations. 

The Boxcar Children series revolves around the adventures of four orphaned siblings: Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny Alden. 

After the children’s parents die, they initially live with their grandfather, who is a strict and distant figure. 

However, they run away to avoid being separated and find shelter in an abandoned boxcar in the woods. 

They make this boxcar their home, and the series follows their independent and resourceful lives as they solve mysteries and go on various adventures in each book.

This series has been praised for its wholesome storytelling and the positive messages it conveys to young readers and therefore, this set is a good choice to add to your classroom library of books for 3rd graders. 

Magic Tree House

The Magic Tree House series is a beloved collection of over 150 children’s books written by American author Mary Pope Osborne. 

The series began in 1992 and has become a beloved staple of children’s literature. 

The stories follow the adventures of siblings Jack and Annie, who discover a mysterious treehouse filled with books in the woods near their home.  

In each book, Jack and Annie are given a mission by Morgan Le Fay, the magical librarian of Camelot, who is also the owner of the treehouse.  

These missions often involve traveling to various historical periods and far-off places to solve a problem, find an object, or rescue someone.  

Jack, who is the older sibling, is more cautious and bookish.  He often serves as the voice of reason during their adventures.

Annie, on the other hand, is more adventurous and impulsive.  

She is usually the one to suggest their missions and is quick to embrace the magic of the treehouse.

The series combines elements of fantasy and adventure while introducing young readers to various historical events, cultures, and time periods.

Children of all ages will enjoy these books, but this will be a very popular book series with your third graders because of how these books make history so engaging and fun.

The Babysitters Club

The Baby-Sitters Club (BSC) is a group of four friends who decide to start a babysitting business in the fictional town of Stoneybrook, Connecticut. 

Kristy Thomas is the founder of the BSC, and is known for her leadership skills and no-nonsense attitude.

Claudia Kishi is an artistic and creative member known for her unique fashion sense.

Mary Anne Spier is the shy and responsible secretary of the club, often portrayed as the more cautious member.

Stacey McGill is a fashionable and sophisticated member who moves to Stoneybrook from New York City.

Over time, the club grows to include more members, each with their own unique personality and interests.  

Each book, in the series of 131 books, focuses on the individual girls’ experiences, both in their personal lives and as babysitters. 

They encounter various challenges, such as handling difficult kids, dealing with family issues, and navigating the ups and downs of friendship.

This series explores themes of friendship, responsibility, family dynamics, and growing up. 

The 130+ books in this series tackle real-life issues that young readers can relate to, making the stories both entertaining and educational.

Geronimo Stilton

The Geronimo Stilton series is a popular collection of 82 children’s books written by the Italian author Elisabetta Dami under the pseudonym Geronimo Stilton. 

The series, originally published in Italian in 2000, has since been translated into numerous languages and has gained a wide following among young readers. 

These adventure novels are narrated by Geronimo Stilton, a mild-mannered, somewhat timid, and easily frightened little mouse who works as a journalist and editor for the fictional newspaper, “The Rodent’s Gazette.” 

Despite his fears, he often finds himself caught up in exciting adventures, daring escapades, and nail-biting mysteries.

Each book in the series focuses on one of Geronimo’s adventures and many include his family members and good friends. 

It often incorporates educational elements, including wordplay, puzzles, and facts, making it both entertaining and informative for young readers.

Nancy Drew

The Nancy Drew Mystery Stories is a well-known series of 175 children’s mystery novels created by publisher Edward Stratemeyer and written by various ghostwriters under the pseudonym Carolyn Keene. 

The series features Nancy Drew, a teenage sleuth known for her intelligence, resourcefulness, determination, and sense of justice. 

She is typically accompanied by her loyal friends, Bess Marvin and George Fayne, and occasionally her boyfriend, Ned Nickerson.

Each book in the series presents a different mystery for Nancy to solve including thefts, frauds, and missing persons to more complex crimes. 

Nancy often becomes entangled in these mysteries due to her curiosity or her desire to help someone in need.

Because the series has evolved and adapted over the years to reflect changing times and cultural sensitivities, make sure you know which version you are purchasing.

 For the most age-appropriate choices, I would probably look for the originals. 

​A to Z Mysteries

The A to Z Mysteries are a popular series of 26 children’s mystery books written by Ron Roy and illustrated by John Steven Gurney.

Each book is titled with a letter from the alphabet and focuses on a specific mystery related to something starting with that letter. 

Throughout the series, three young friends, Dink Duncan, Josh Pinto, and Ruth Rose Hathaway use their detective skills, teamwork, and clever thinking to solve a wide variety of mysteries in their hometown of Green Lawn. 

The stories are engaging and designed to be accessible to young readers, with simple language and short chapters.

The “A to Z Mysteries” series is a great choice for children who enjoy mysteries and are transitioning from picture books to chapter books. 

It encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and a love of reading

Cam Jansen

This series of 36 children’s mystery books, written by author David A. Adler, introduces readers to a young girl named Jennifer “Cam” Jansen.

She possesses an incredible photographic memory, which she refers to as her “click.” 

With this remarkable ability, Cam can remember and recall specific details of things she’s seen, which proves to be a valuable asset in solving mysteries. 

She and her friend Eric Shelton find themselves in various mystery-solving adventures throughout the series with Cam’s photographic memory being the key to uncovering clues and solving puzzling situations.

Encyclopedia Brown

This book series is a collection of 29 children’s mystery books written by American author Donald J. Sobol. 

Leroy “Encyclopedia” Brown is a young who sets up his own detective agency and uses his intelligence and deductive skills to solve various cases. 

Each book showcases multiple mysteries, each presented as a short story, that the young sleuth must solve.

The books are designed to encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills as readers try to solve the mysteries alongside Encyclopedia. 

Donald J. Sobol’s clever storytelling and the enduring popularity of the series have made Encyclopedia Brown a classic character in the world of children’s literature.

Flat Stanley

The Flat Stanley series is a collection of 21 children’s books created by author Jeff Brown, and known for its whimsical and imaginative premise.

The central character, Stanley Lambchop, has a unique characteristic: he becomes flat after a bulletin board falls on him while he is sleeping.

Throughout the series, the books combine humor, adventure, and a sense of wonder as Stanley navigates the world in his unique flat form. 

The stories often have underlying themes of friendship, problem-solving, and embracing one’s differences. 

Junie B. Jones

This delightful series of over 30 books written by Barbara Park follows the adventures of Junie B. Jones, a precocious and spirited kindergarten student, as she navigates the ups and downs of school and family life. 

Known for its humorous and relatable storytelling, this series is a favorite among young readers, especially those in the early elementary grades.

Many of the books revolve around Junie B.’s experiences at school, including making friends, dealing with teachers, and facing typical childhood challenges like losing her first tooth or going on field trips.

It’s a great series for children who are transitioning from picture books to chapter books and are looking for entertaining stories that capture the essence of childhood.

The Best Book Series

How to Train Your Dragon

The “How to Train Your Dragon” book series, written by Cressida Cowell, is a delightful collection of novels that inspired the popular animated film franchise. 

The series follows the adventures of a young Viking named Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III and his journey to become a hero and a dragon trainer.

Here are the How to Train Your Dragon books in order…

  1. How to Train Your Dragon 
  2. How to Train Your Dragon: How to Be a Pirate
  3. ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Speak Dragonese
  4. ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Cheat a Dragon’s Curse
  5. How to Train Your Dragon: How to Twist a Dragon’s Tale
  6. ​How to Train Your Dragon: A Hero’s Guide to Deadly Dragons
  7. ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Ride a Dragon’s Storm
  8. ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Break a Dragon’s Heart
  9. ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Steal a Dragon’s Sword
  10. ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Seize a Dragon’s Jewel
  11. ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Betray a Dragon’s Hero
  12. ​How to Train Your Dragon: How to Fight a Dragon’s Fury

Little House on the Prairie

A beloved collection of 9 children’s novels written by Laura Ingalls Wilder, and based on her own childhood experiences growing up in the American Midwest during the late 19th century. 

The books offer a captivating and nostalgic look at pioneer life, family, and the challenges faced by early settlers, and they have had a lasting impact on American literature and popular culture. 

Laura Ingalls Wilder’s stories have been adapted into a popular television series, and the books remain a staple in children’s literature, cherished by readers of all ages.

The Little House on the Prairie books in order…

  1. Little House in the Big Woods
  2. Little House on the Prairie
  3. Farmer Boy
  4. On the Banks of Plum Creek
  5. By the Shores of Silver Lake
  6. The Long Winter
  7. Little Town on the Prairie
  8. These Happy Golden Years
  9. The First Four Years

Ivy and Bean

The “Ivy and Bean” series is a collection of 12 books written by author Annie Barrows and illustrated by Sophie Blackall. 

This series introduces readers to Ivy, who is quiet, bookish, and loves to read, and her next door neighbor named Bean, who is boisterous and full of energy. 

Initially, they don’t think they can be friends because they are so different, but they eventually discover common ground and form a unique and close-knit friendship.

If you are looking for books for 3rd graders featuring a delightful blend of humor, friendship, and adventure, then this is the series for you!

From breaking records, hunting ghosts, and babysitting woes to dancing, creating their own newspaper, and starting their own summer camp, these two friends are never short on ideas.

​Here is a list of the Ivy and Ben books in order…

  1. Ivy and Bean
  2. Ivy and Bean and the Ghost That Had to Go
  3. Ivy and Bean Break the Fossil Record
  4. Ivy and Bean Take Care of the Babysitter
  5. Ivy and Bean Bound to Be Bad
  6. Ivy and Bean Doomed to Dance
  7. Ivy and Bean What’s the Big Idea?
  8. Ivy and Bean No News Is Good News
  9. ​Ivy and Bean Make the Rules
  10. Ivy and Bean Take the Case
  11.  Ivy and Bean One Big Happy Family
  12. Ivy and Bean Get to Work!

The Lemonade War Series

This set of children’s books, written by Jacqueline Davies, is a contemporary series that explores themes of entrepreneurship, sibling relationships, and problem-solving. 

Evan Treski, a 3rd grade student, and his sister Jessie, who is in second grade, find themselves engaged in various entrepreneurial endeavors, often centered around lemonade stands. 

Each book in the series presents a different summer vacation and a new business challenge for Evan and Jessie.

Here is a list of The Lemonade War books in order…

  1. The Lemonade War
  2. The Lemonade Crime
  3. The Bell Bandit
  4. The Candy Smash
  5. The Magic Trap
  6. The Bridge Battle

Sarah, Plain and Tall Saga

This series is a collection of children’s books written by American author Patricia MacLachlan, which revolve around the Witting family and the character Sarah Wheaton.

These books are known for their gentle storytelling, rich characters, and themes of love, family, and the beauty of the natural world.

Sarah, Plain and Tall

After advertising for a mail-order bride to help take care of his family and his home, Jacob Whitting and his two children, Anna and Caleb, meet Sarah Wheaton, who moves from Maine to the prairie and slowly builds trust and love within the family.

Skylark

Sarah begins to miss her coastal home in Maine and longs to visit her family, but Jacob, Anna, and Caleb, who have grown attached to Sarah, must decide whether they can bear to let her go, even temporarily, and whether they can make their home on the prairie a permanent one. 

Caleb’s Story

The third book (set several years after the events of the previous books) shifts its focus to Caleb, the younger of Jacob’s children, who is now a teenager and learning to share his experiences, thoughts, and feelings about life on the prairie and his relationship with his father, sister, and Sarah.

More Perfect Than the Moon

The fourth book focuses specifically on the character of Cassie, a teenager who has discovered a loved for writing poetry and who is learning to use her poems as a way to explore her thoughts and feelings about her family, her parents’ relationship, and her own place in the world.

Grandfather’s Dance

The final book in the series shifts attention to Anna, who is getting ready to be married, but the joy is mingled with sadness as the family has to come to terms with Sarah’s deteriorating health.

Henry Huggins Series

This series is a delightful collection of 6 children’s books written by Beverly Cleary that follow the adventures (and misadventures) of a young boy named Henry Huggins. 

These books are known for their humor, relatable characters, and portrayal of everyday life. 

Henry Huggins

The first book in this series introduces readers to Henry Huggins who, along with his family, friends, and dog, Ribsy, participates in various escapades, from trying to raise money to buy a bicycle to dealing with a mischievous pet.

Henry and Beezus

Henry and his friend Beezus Quimby, who happens to be the older sister of Ramona Quimby, find themselves in various humorous situations as they navigate school, family, and their neighborhood.

Henry and Ribsy

Henry and his best friend, and loyal dog, Ribsy have had lots of adventures together, but when Ribsy gets lost, Henry embarks on a mission to find him, leading to a series of comical and heartwarming events.

Henry and the Paper Route

In this installment, Henry takes on the responsibility of a paper route, leading to all sorts of amusing challenges and life lessons as he deals with difficult customers, rival paper carriers, and the ups and downs of his new job.

Henry and the Clubhouse 

Henry and his friends build a clubhouse, which becomes the center of all their imaginative adventures. 

Ribsy

This story is unique because readers get to experience Ribsy’s adventures and challenges, including getting lost in a shopping mall from his canine perspective.

The Ramona Quimby Series

This series by Beverly Cleary is a beloved collection of 8 children’s books that revolve around the adventures, challenges, and growth of Ramona Quimby, a young girl who is known for her spunky and imaginative personality. 

These books are cherished for their relatable characters, humor, and insights into childhood.

Beezus and Ramona

This first book introduces readers to Ramona Quimby and her relationship with her older sister, Beezus (Beatrice), who is often frustrated Ramona’s antics and imaginative behavior. 

Ramona the Pest

In this book, Ramona starts kindergarten, and readers get to experience her adventures (and misadventures) as she navigates the ups and downs of school life including feeling as though her teacher is treats her like a pest.

Ramona the Brave

This book follows Ramona as she continues to grow and face new challenges, including enduring a tumultuous first-grade year with resilience and bravery. 

Ramona and Her Father

Ramona faces changes in her family when her father loses his job, and she must come to terms with financial struggles. 

Ramona and Her Mother

In this installment, readers see the challenges Ramona’s mother faces as she returns to work, leaving Ramona to adjust to new routines, responsibilities, and family dynamics. 

Ramona Quimby, Age 8

​This book marks a pivotal year in Ramona’s life as she turns eight years old and gains more independence while also facing new challenges in school and with her friends. 

Ramona Forever

Ramona’s learns valuable lessons about responsibility when her beloved cat, Picky-picky, dies and her Aunt Beatrice gets married.

Ramona’s World

This is the final book in the series, and it follows Ramona as she enters the fourth grade, meets new friends, and begins expanding her world as well as her growing sense of empathy.

My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish Series

This wacky series of children’s books, written by Mo O’Hara, combines humor, adventure, and a touch of the supernatural to create a fun and engaging reading experience for young readers.

When a science experiment goes completely awry, young Tom’s pet goldfish, Frankie, is turned into a zombie goldfish.

My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish

Tom and his best friend, Pradeep, must keep Frankie’s secret while dealing with his newfound abilities, which include hypnotic powers and a craving for brains. 

The SeaQuel

In the second installment, Tom and Pradeep are on a new adventure with Frankie where they are facing evil scientist Mark’s latest creation, a robotic goldfish with a sinister plan.

Fins of Fury

Tom, Pradeep, and Frankie find themselves in a deep-sea mission and a race against time as they chase down Mark and his underwater zombie fish army set on taking over the world’s oceans.

Any Fin is Possible

Tom and Pradeep face must stop a mind-controlling computer game created by Mark in order to save their friends and family from the game’s sinister influence.

Live and Let Swim

The fifth book takes the friends on a wild adventure when they discover that the evil scientist’s latest invention can turn humans into fish. 

Jurassic Carp

Tom and Pradeep find themselves on an unexpected journey when a time-traveling Frankie leads them to the prehistoric era where they encounter dinosaurs and face various challenges to find their way back home.

Books by Author

Judy Blume

Judy Blume is a highly acclaimed American author known for her books, primarily aimed at children and young adults, that deal with various aspects of growing up, including friendships, family, puberty, and coming of age. 

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

The first book in the “Fudge” series, it introduces us to the Hatcher family and features the misadventures of Peter Hatcher, a 4th-grade boy, and his mischievous younger brother Fudge, whose antics often cause trouble. 

Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great

The second story in the “Fudge” series focuses on the character Sheila Tubman, who, despite her outward bravado, deals with a lot of fears and insecurities during her stay in Tarrytown.

Superfudge

Peter has to adjust to major changes in his life, including the arrival of a new baby sister, Tootsie, and a move to Princeton, New Jersey with Fudge adding chaos and laughter every step of the way.

Fudge-a-Mania

This book finds the Hatchers vacationing in Maine, where Peter and Fudge encounter new friends and many more hilarious mishaps including a wedding!

Double Fudge

This book brings Peter and Fudge back to New York City, where Fudge becomes obsessed with money and wants to buy the entire world.

Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl was a renowned British author known for his imaginative and whimsical children’s books. 

His works have captivated readers of all ages with their humor, creativity, and sometimes darkly humorous or macabre themes. 

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Follows the adventures of Charlie Bucket (and a host of other unusual characters) as he tours Willy Wonka’s eccentric chocolate factory.

Matilda

Tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a young girl with extraordinary abilities, resilience, intelligence and kindness, who must navigate life with her neglectful parents and tyrannical headmistress.

James and the Giant Peach

Follows the fantastical and adventurous journey of a young orphan named James Henry Trotter as he escapes from his miserable life (caused by his two cruel aunts) and embarks on a magical journey inside a giant peach.

The BFG (Big Friendly Giant)

After an unlikely meeting, Sophie and her new friend, the BFG, must learn to work together to stop other, less friendly giants from eating children in this heartwarming tale of friendship, bravery, and the triumph of good over evil. 

Fantastic Mr. Fox

A whimsical and adventurous underdog story about a clever, cunning, and resourceful fox who outwits three cruel farmers dead set on carrying out their cruel plan.  

Beverly Cleary

Beverly Cleary is a beloved American author who wrote books known for their relatable characters, humor, and ability to address real-life issues faced by children and adolescents.

And while I’ve already shared the Henry Huggins Series and the Ramona Quimby Series written by Beverly Cleary, I wanted to share a few more favorites that are ideal books for third grade students.

The Mouse and the Motorcycle

In this first book, readers are introduced to the adventures of a young mouse named Ralph who lives in a hotel and befriends a boy named Keith, who also happens to have a toy motorcycle that Ralph learns to ride. 

Runaway Ralph

In this sequel, Ralph decides to leave the hotel and his journey leads him to a summer camp where he meets a lonely boy named Garf who needs Ralph’s help. 

Ralph S. Mouse

In the final book, Ralph ends up in a school and finds himself caught between the world of mice and the world of humans. 

Dear Mr. Henshaw

This Newbery medal winning novel tells the story of Leigh Botts, a young boy who corresponds with his favorite author, Mr. Henshaw, through a series of letters which help him overcome the impact of loneliness and divorce in a journey of self-discovery. 

Socks

Socks has always been the center of attention in his home with the Bricker family, but everything changes when the new baby arrives.

This touching story explores the dynamics between pets and their human families, particularly in the face of changes and challenges. 

Beverly Cleary’s characters and stories continue to be cherished by generations and her contributions to children’s literature have left a lasting legacy.

Graphic Novel Books

These are the style of books that reluctant readers tend to gravitate toward because they don’t feel as overwhelming as “regular” books.

Instead of pages and pages of text, these books contain engaging illustrations and comical language to keep the interest of your readers.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series

This series a highly popular and humorous collection of middle-grade novels written by American author and cartoonist Jeff Kinney. 

These funny tales are presented in the form of a diary, filled with text and amusing illustrations.

Greg Heffley is starting middle school, and he is not sure he’s up for the challenges he is getting ready to face.

Join Greg and Rowley, along with a host of other entertaining characters as they face older brother problems, summer vacation(s), snowstorms, the awkwardness of adolescence, relationships, a family road trip, breaks from technology, school projects, and home renovations.

Here are the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books in order…

  1. Diary of a Wimpy Kid
  2. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules
  3. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw
  4. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
  5. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth
  6. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever
  7. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third Wheel
  8. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck
  9. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul
  10. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Old School
  11. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Double Down
  12. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway
  13. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Meltdown
  14. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball
  15. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep End
  16. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot
  17. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Diper Overlode
  18. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: No Brainer

Every single hilarious book in this series will have your 3rd graders cackling with laughter!

The Captain Underpants Series

The “Captain Underpants” series, written by Dav Pilkey, primarily revolves around George and Harold, two fourth-grade pranksters at Jerome Horwitz Elementary School. 

This particular group of books for 3rd graders is well-known for its engaging blend of humor, action, and occasional potty humor. 

In fact, when George and Harold aren’t hypnotizing their principal or watching talking toilets terrorize their town, they are facing invasions of alien cafeteria ladies, trying to fix science experiments gone awry, and traveling through time to protect the world as they know it.

These ridiculous stories often feature comic book-style illustrations, flip-o-rama pages (where readers can flip back and forth to create simple animation), and jokes that appeal to the sensibilities of young readers.

Boys, in particular, will call these books the “best thing” that has ever happened to literature.

The Captain Underpants books in order…

  1. The Adventures of Captain Underpants
  2. Captain Underpants and the Attack of the Talking Toilets
  3. Captain Underpants and the Invasion of the Incredibly Naughty Cafeteria Ladies from Outer Space (and the Subsequent Assault of the Equally Evil Lunchroom Zombie Nerds)
  4. Captain Underpants and the Perilous Plot of Professor Poopypants
  5. Captain Underpants and the Wrath of the Wicked Wedgie Woman
  6. Captain Underpants and the Big, Bad Battle of the Bionic Booger Boy – Part 1: The Night of the Nasty Nostril Nuggets
  7. Captain Underpants and the Big, Bad Battle of the Bionic Booger Boy – Part 2: The Revenge of the Ridiculous Robo-Boogers
  8. Captain Underpants and the Preposterous Plight of the Purple Potty People
  9. Captain Underpants and the Terrifying Re-Turn of Tippy Tinkletrousers
  10. Captain Underpants and the Revolting Revenge of the Radioactive Robo-Boxers
  11. Captain Underpants and the Tyrannical Retaliation of the Turbo Toilet 2000
  12. Captain Underpants and the Sensational Saga of Sir Stinks-A-Lot

The Notebook of Doom Series

This series of books for 3rd graders follows the adventures of Alexander Bopp, a young boy who moves to the small and seemingly ordinary town of Stermont. 

However, Alexander quickly discovers that Stermont is anything but ordinary. 

In fact, it’s a town filled with bizarre and sometimes terrifying monsters.

When Alexander stumbles upon an unusual notebook, which he names the “Notebook of Doom,” he begins to use the information in the notebook to defeat the monsters haunting the town. 

Armed with the notebook and his resourcefulness, Alexander becomes the town’s unofficial Monster Hunter.

Here are the Notebook of Doom books in order…

  1. Rise of the Balloon Goons
  2. Day of the Night Crawlers
  3. Attack of the Shadow Smashers
  4. Chomp of the Meat-Eating Vegetables
  5. Whack of the P-Rex
  6. Pop of the Bumpy Mummy
  7. Flurry of the Snombies
  8. Charge of the Lightning Bugs
  9. Rumble of the Coaster Ghost
  10. Snap of the Super-Goop
  11. Sneeze of the Octo-Schnozz
  12. March of the Vanderpants
  13. Battle of the Boss-Monster

Dork Diaries

The “Dork Diaries” series follows Nikki Maxwell’s life as she attends Westchester Country Day, a fictional middle school. 

Nikki often feels like an outsider and uses her diary as a way to cope with the challenges she faces, including dealing with bullies, making friends, and pursuing her passion for art. 

The books are known for their relatable and humorous portrayal of middle school life.  

Here are the Dork Diary books in order…

  1. Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life 
  2. Dork Diaries: Party Time
  3. Dork Diaries: Pop Star 
  4. Dork Diaries: Skating Sensation
  5. Dork Diaries: Dear Dork
  6. Dork Diaries: Holiday Heartbreak
  7. Dork Diaries: TV Star
  8. Dork Diaries: Once Upon a Dork
  9. Dork Diaries: Drama Queen 
  10. Dork Diaries: Puppy Love
  11. ​Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Friendly Frenemy
  12. Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Secret Crush Catastrophe
  13. Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Happy Birthday
  14. Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Best Friend Forever
  15. Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Posh Paris Adventure

The Bad Guys

A series of 18 children’s graphic novels written and illustrated by Aaron Blabey, and known for its humor, action, and memorable characters. 

This unique series of stories has gained a wide readership and critical acclaim due to its ability to encourage reluctant readers to pick up a book.

The Bad Guys, a group of reformed villians, set out on various missions to help animals in need and right wrongs. 

Their ultimate goal is to change their reputations from being bad guys to good guys, which often leads to comical situations.

Here is a list of The Bad Guys books in order…

  1. The Bad Guys
  2. The Bad Guys in Mission Unpluckable
  3. The Bad Guys in the Furball Strikes Back
  4. The Bad Guys in Attack of the Zittens
  5. The Bad Guys in Interstellar Gas
  6. The Bad Guys in Alien vs Bad Guys
  7. The Bad Guys in Do-You-Think-He-Saurus?!
  8. The Bad Guys in Superbad
  9. The Bad Guys in The Big Bad Wolf
  10. The Bad Guys in The Baddest Day Ever
  11. The Bad Guys in Dawn of the Underlord
  12. The Bad Guys in The One?!
  13. The Bad Guys Cut to the Chase
  14. The Bad Guys in They’re Bee-Hind You!
  15. The Bad Guys in Open Wide and Say Arrrgh!
  16. The Bad Guys in the Others?!
  17. The Bad Guys in Let the Games Begin!
  18. The Bad Guys in Look Who’s Talking
9 of the 100 best books for 3rd graders in a collage style pin for pinterest

If you want to find a great book for every student who walks into your classroom this school year, then this ultimate guide to books for 3rd graders is what you need.  

Today’s children need to have the opportunity to interact with books on their reading level, and there is something for everyone on this list.