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Grade 3 Core Literature List
Welcome to the Grade 3 Reading List! Each of these books has been selected to inspire young readers with captivating stories, memorable characters, and a deeper understanding of our world. This collection of classic tales, diverse genres, and culturally enriching stories encourages critical thinking and an appreciation for literature. Dive in, explore, and enjoy the adventures waiting on every page!
Encourage your child to read for 20-30 minutes each day and fill in their weekly reading logs, which can be redeemed for exciting rewards at the Motivation Station!
Our Curated Book List:
Charlotte’s Web
By E.B. White
Follow the unlikely friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a clever spider named Charlotte as they work together to save Wilbur’s life. This beloved classic introduces themes of loyalty, kindness, and the power of friendship.
Theme: Fiction, Friendship
Mr. Popper’s Penguins
By Richard Atwater
When Mr. Popper, a house painter with a fascination for penguins, finds himself with a house full of the birds, hilarity ensues. A whimsical story that explores dreams, family, and the importance of following one's passions.
Theme: Humor, Adventure
Little House in the Big Woods
By Laura Ingalls Wilder
Journey back to the American frontier with Laura and her family as they navigate life in the wilderness. This tale teaches resilience, family bonds, and the simplicity of life through engaging adventures and vivid descriptions of early pioneer life.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Family Life
Ramona Quimby, Age 8
By Beverly Cleary
Ramona Quimby is full of energy and curiosity, which sometimes leads to unintended trouble. A delightful look at childhood through relatable experiences, as Ramona learns about growing up and dealing with the challenges of being eight.
Theme: Realistic Fiction, Humor
All About Sam
By Lois Lowry
Get inside the head of Sam, an inquisitive and mischievous young boy who sees the world in his unique way. Through his adventures, Sam brings laughter and warmth, celebrating the everyday moments of childhood.
Theme: Family, Humor
Anno’s Mysterious Multiplying Jar
By Mitsumasa Anno
A beautifully illustrated book that cleverly explains the concept of factorials. A fascinating read that combines storytelling with math, encouraging young minds to see numbers in a new light.
Theme: Mathematics, Picture Book
Brother Eagle, Sister Sky
By Chief Seattle, illustrated by Susan Jeffers
This beautiful book reflects the words and wisdom of Chief Seattle, highlighting the importance of nature and respecting our planet. A heartfelt reminder of our connection to the Earth.
Theme: Nature, Culture
Cinderella
By Charles Perrault
This timeless fairy tale brings readers the story of Cinderella, a kind and gentle girl who overcomes adversity with the help of a little magic. A story of resilience, kindness, and the triumph of good over evil.
Theme: Fairy Tale, Classic
The Courage of Sarah Noble
By Alice Dalgliesh
Based on a true story, this tale follows young Sarah as she faces challenges on the American frontier. Her bravery and sense of duty make this an inspiring story about overcoming fears and honoring family.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Courage
James and the Giant Peach
By Roald Dahl
Join James on a fantastic journey across the ocean in a giant peach, along with his quirky insect friends. A fun and imaginative story that celebrates friendship and bravery in the face of challenges.
Theme: Fantasy, Adventure
The Mouse and the Motorcycle
By Beverly Cleary
Ralph the mouse discovers a toy motorcycle and sets out on thrilling escapades. This story of independence and courage will leave readers cheering for Ralph’s cleverness and bravery.
Theme: Adventure, Humor
Sarah, Plain and Tall
By Patricia MacLachlan
When Sarah answers a widowed farmer’s advertisement for a wife, his children are uncertain about the changes she may bring. A touching story of family, acceptance, and new beginnings on the prairie.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Family
Where the Sidewalk Ends
By Shel Silverstein
A whimsical collection of poems filled with humor, insight, and heart. Silverstein’s poetry invites readers into a world of imagination, celebrating the joy of words and creativity.
Theme: Poetry, Humor
Song of the Swallows
By Leo Politi
Celebrate the return of the swallows to the Mission of San Juan Capistrano in this Caldecott-winning tale. It emphasizes themes of friendship, nature, and the cycle of seasons.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Nature
Louis Braille: The Boy Who Invented Books for the Blind
By Margaret Davidson
Discover the life of Louis Braille, a young boy who overcame adversity to create the Braille alphabet, transforming education for the blind community. An inspiring tale of resilience and innovation.
Theme: Biography, Inspiration
Sam, Bangs, and Moonshine
By Evaline Ness
Samantha, a fisherman's daughter with a wild imagination, learns the importance of truth versus fantasy in this Newbery Medal-winning book. A story about growing up and facing reality.
Theme: Fantasy, Realism
Squanto, Friend of the Pilgrims
By Clyde Robert Bulla
Follow Squanto’s life as he bridges Native American and Pilgrim cultures, helping early settlers survive. This engaging narrative offers historical insights and fosters appreciation for cultural connections.
Theme: Historical Biography
Each Orange Had Eight Slices
By Paul Giganti Jr.
A delightful picture book that uses everyday objects to introduce basic math concepts. Through relatable scenarios, young readers can explore counting and multiplication in a fun way.
Theme: Math, Counting
When I Was Young in the Mountains
By Cynthia Rylant
This nostalgic picture book celebrates the joys of simple living in the mountains, capturing the essence of family traditions, nature, and rural life.
Theme: Memoir, Rural Life
Fables
By Arnold Lobel
Lobel’s unique fables are filled with humor and wisdom, each story offering a life lesson in an entertaining format. A wonderful introduction to moral storytelling for young readers.
Theme: Folk Tales, Morals
Wump World
By Bill Peet
An imaginative tale of peaceful creatures whose world is disrupted by environmental destruction. This thought-provoking book introduces kids to themes of environmental responsibility.
Theme: Environmental Awareness, Fiction
Knots on a Counting Rope
By Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault
An inspiring story of a young boy’s journey to gain independence with the help of his grandfather. A touching tale about resilience, family, and facing challenges.
Theme: Cultural, Inspirational
From Sea to Shining Sea
By Amy Cohn
Through beautiful illustrations and poetic language, this book captures America’s vast landscapes and diverse cultures. A moving tribute to the country’s beauty and spirit.
Theme: American History, Patriotism
Columbus
By Ingri & Edgar Parin d’Aulaire
A fascinating look at the life of Christopher Columbus, with beautiful illustrations that bring his voyages to life. D’Aulaire’s storytelling makes history feel accessible and engaging for young readers, shedding light on one of the most famous explorers in history.
Theme: Biography, Exploration
The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses
By Paul Goble
This beautifully illustrated story follows a young girl deeply connected to the horses she loves. A tale rooted in Native American culture, it celebrates the bonds between humans and animals and offers a message about freedom and belonging.
Theme: Native American Folktale, Nature
Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle
By Betty MacDonald
Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle is an eccentric woman with magical solutions to children’s common misbehaviors. With humor and creativity, this classic story introduces readers to imaginative problem-solving and the joys of individuality.
Theme: Humor, Life Lessons
Hey Reading Rangers,
Remember to log your reading every day in your Weekly Reading Log. Once completed, get it signed by a parent and redeem your points at our Motivation Station for fun rewards! Happy reading!
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