Books for 6th Graders That Inspire a Love for Reading

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Reading is one of the most powerful gifts we can offer children–and one of the greatest habits they can carry into adulthood. As an adult who still loves to read and learn, I’m passionate about promoting children’s literacy. When it comes to encouraging a 6th grader to pick up a book, I believe in four key truths:

1. It has to be a topic of interest.
2. Books can be at any reading level – there’s no “wrong” one.
3. Picture books are powerful, no matter your age.
4. Comics and graphic novels absolutely count as reading.

Books for 6th Graders

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply a book-loving adult in a young reader’s life, fostering a love for books means meeting kids where they are. That might mean reading aloud to them, taking turns reading chapters, or simply sitting beside them with your own book while they flip through theirs.

Here are four standout book recommendations for 6th graders that are entertaining, thoughtful, and accessible–all with themes that spark interest and build empathy.

Dog Man by Dav Pilkey

Genre: Graphic Novel | Theme: Humor, Adventure
Why It Works:
Thanks to the new movie adaptation, Dog Man is seeing a well-deserved surge in popularity–and for good reason. Created by the author of Captain Underpants, this series follows a half-dog, half-man police officer battling crime and chaos. It’s silly, energetic, and perfect for reluctant readers who need something light and visual to get started. Graphic novels like this are especially engaging because they blend illustrations with text, making it fun and digestible. Dog Man opens the door for many children who claim they “don’t like reading” and proves just how fun it can be.

Check out the Dog Man #1 book on AMAZON*.

Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez

Genre: Graphic Novel | Theme: Identity, Empathy, Bilingual Experience
Why It Works:
Invisible is a gem of a graphic novel, especially for bilingual children or those learning Spanish or English. It follows five students from different backgrounds who are thrown together in a community service group. As each child’s unique backstory unfolds, we see themes of hardship, friendship, judgment, and resilience come to life. This book highlights the importance of looking beyond stereotypes and understanding others. It’s an important story told in a way that’s visually appealing and emotionally impactful.

Check out Invisible on AMAZON*.

Spineless by Samantha San Miguel

Genre: Historical Adventure | Theme: Courage, Mystery, Health
Why It Works:
Set in the Gilded Age at a lush Florida resort, Spineless brings readers on a wild scientific adventure. The protagonist, a young boy with asthma, finds himself in Hotel Paraíso with his family–only to discover that something odd (and potentially dangerous) is lurking in the water. Alongside two brave sisters, he investigates the mysterious happenings and grows in courage and understanding. With themes of health, history, science, and friendship, Spineless offers something truly unique–and even a little spine-tingling.

Check out Spineless on Amazon*.

House of Robots by James Patterson

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction | Theme: Family, Acceptance, Innovation
Why It Works:
In House of Robots, Sammy is thrown into a wild situation when his inventor mother insists that a robot sibling accompany him to school. What starts off as embarrassing soon becomes an unforgettable journey filled with laughs, lessons, and surprising twists. The book explores serious topics like bullying, sibling illness, and the importance of embracing differences–all wrapped up in Patterson’s trademark humor and accessibility. Great for readers who enjoy tech, family stories, or just want something lively with heart.

Check out House of Robots on Amazon*.

Finding the Perfect Books for 6th Graders

Encouraging a 6th grader to read doesn’t require finding the perfect book–it just requires the right connection. Whether it’s a funny graphic novel, a touching story about friendship, or a thrilling adventure, books can unlock a child’s imagination and emotional world. The best thing we can do is read with them, read near them, or let them see us reading. 

Reading isn’t just about decoding words–it’s about building empathy, expanding knowledge, and enjoying stories. These 6th-grade-friendly reads do all that and more.

What about you?

Do you have a favorite middle-grade book or a read-aloud memory? Let me know in the comments or tag @CuratingEdits on social media with your reading picks! In addition, please support your local library, and check out the list of Public Libraries in the United States.