The Best Chapter Books for 2nd Graders
Second graders are usually ready for chapter books with illustrations, short chapters, and a real story arc. These ten are tested favorites for ages 7–8.
- 1
Mercy Watson to the Rescue
by Kate DiCamillo
Why it works: A pig who loves buttered toast. Big illustrations, hilarious chapters.
- 2
Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark
by Mary Pope Osborne
Why it works: Adventure, facts, perfect chapter length for new chapter-book readers.
- 3
The Princess in Black
by Shannon & Dean Hale
Why it works: Smart twist on princess stories with monster-fighting action.
- 4
Owl Diaries: Eva’s Treetop Festival
by Rebecca Elliott
Why it works: Diary format with doodles — gentle entry into chapter books.
- 5
Ivy + Bean
by Annie Barrows
Why it works: Funny friendship duo with episodic adventures.
- 6
The Bad Guys
by Aaron Blabey
Why it works: Graphic-novel-style chapter book that reluctant readers devour.
- 7
Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus
by Barbara Park
Why it works: Hilariously honest first-person narration kids quote forever.
- 8
Dory Fantasmagory
by Abby Hanlon
Why it works: The youngest sibling, an imaginary monster friend, and pure chaos.
- 9
Stick Dog
by Tom Watson
Why it works: Crayon-stick illustrations and slapstick dogs trying to steal burgers.
- 10
EllRay Jakes Is Not a Chicken
by Sally Warner
Why it works: Realistic 2nd-grade school stories from a kid you root for.
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