65 Best Books for 5th Graders (2024)

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Experience a heartwarming tale of friendship as Jess and Leslie create their own magical kingdom, Terabithia, where anything is possible. Despite a rocky start, the two become inseparable, and their imaginations unleash a world of adventure and wonder. Don't miss this captivating and enchanting read.

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Christina Warren

Experience the journey of a young girl, Esperanza, as she goes from living in luxury on a ranch in Mexico to a harsh life of hard labor and financial challenges in California during the Great Depression. Forced to settle in a camp for Mexican farm workers, Esperanza faces a lack of acceptance that she's unprepared for. When their new life is threatened, Esperanza must find a way to rise above her circ*mstances, with Mama's life and her own on the line.

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In this gripping tale of survival, a young boy must navigate the Canadian wilderness alone after his small plane crashes. Armed with only a hatchet, he must learn to find food and shelter, and overcome terrifying challenges each day. As he transforms from a helpless victim to a resourceful survivor, readers will be inspired to explore the wilderness themselves.

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Set in Copenhagen during World War II, Number the Stars tells the story of best friends Annemarie and Ellen, who face the daily struggles of life in a city occupied by Nazi soldiers. When Ellen is forced to pretend to be part of Annemarie's family to escape being relocated with the rest of Denmark's Jewish population, Annemarie is tasked with a perilous mission to save her friend's life. This poignant and suspenseful tale explores themes of friendship, bravery, and sacrifice in the face of unimaginable danger.

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This modern classic tells the story of Jeffrey Lionel "Maniac" Magee, an orphan who runs away from his unhappy home life. His running takes on a life of its own and he becomes known for his legendary and amazing feats. Set in a racially divided small town, Maniac Magee changes lives with his journey. A Newbery Medal winner, this book is a must-read for those looking for a powerful and inspiring tale.

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Embark on a thrilling adventure as twelve-year-old Percy Jackson sets out to catch a thief who has stolen Zeus' master bolt - the original weapon of mass destruction. Accompanied by a satyr and a daughter of Athena, Percy travels across the United States, facing mythical foes and coming to terms with a father he never knew. Don't miss this quest full of danger, betrayal, and self-discovery.

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A young boy named Stanley is sent to Camp Green Lake, a detention center where boys are forced to dig holes all day. But as Stanley soon realizes, there's more going on than just character building. With humor and creativity, this modern classic explores themes of crime, punishment, and redemption. Plus, get a sneak peek at the author's other novels.

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Gretchen Rubin

Embark on a thrilling journey through space and time with Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin as they search for Meg's missing father, a scientist who vanished while working on a secret government project involving a mysterious concept called a tesseract. A Wrinkle in Time is a unique and captivating story that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Winner of the Newberry Medal in 1963, this book is a must-read for fans of science fiction and adventure.

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Sheryl SandbergDanielle Morrill

A family cursed with eternal life reveals their secret to a curious young girl who soon understands the burden of living forever. But when a stranger attempts to exploit their gift for personal gain, complications arise. Will the Tucks be able to keep their secret safe? This bittersweet tale poses thought-provoking questions about mortality and the value of life.

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Join a loyal trio as they explore the wilds of Cherokee country. With undying determination, they form an unbeatable hunting team, but tragedy is always lurking. Journey through a story full of love, adventure, and heartache that is sure to stay with you forever.

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