8th Grade Books List

Are you looking for 8th grade books suggestion? I’ve compiled a list of 100 engaging 8th grade book list that will spark imagination and promote a love of reading. Whether your young reader is into thrilling adventures, fantasy worlds, heartwarming stories, or poignant coming-of-age tales, this list has something for everyone.

8th grade books

Are you in search of some exciting and engaging book suggestions for your 8th grader? Finding the right books can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially with so many options available that could either ignite the imagination or inspire a love for reading. Luckily, I’ve taken the time to compile a comprehensive list of 100 engaging books specifically curated for 8th-grade readers.

This collection features a diverse array of genres, ensuring that there is truly something for everyone. Whether your young reader is drawn to thrilling adventures that keep them on the edge of their seat, enchanting fantasy worlds where anything is possible, heartwarming stories that tug at their emotions, or poignant coming-of-age tales that resonate with their own experiences, this list has got it all.

In this digital age, where screens often dominate our leisure time, encouraging regular reading can help improve vocabulary, boost comprehension skills, and stimulate creativity. By introducing your child to these recommended titles, you are not just providing them with books; you are giving them the opportunity to explore their thoughts and emotions, broaden their horizons, and develop a lifelong passion for literature.

So whether your young reader prefers gripping suspense, magical adventures, relatable experiences, or insightful narratives, dive into this extensive 8th-grade book list. Allow them to discover stories that will captivate their minds and hearts, fostering their love for reading.

Plus don’t miss our 8th grade worksheets, more book recommendations, and 5000+ free worksheets for kids!

8th grade book list

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. This thrilling dystopian novel introduces readers to a future world where children must fight to the death in an annual televised event. It explores themes of survival, government control, and personal sacrifice, making it a thought-provoking read.
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry tells the gripping story of a young Danish girl who bravely helps her Jewish friend escape during World War II, showcasing themes of friendship, courage, and the fight against oppression.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. This classic novel delves into serious social issues like racism and moral growth through the eyes of a young girl in the South. Its powerful message and relatable characters encourage young readers to think critically about justice and empathy.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio is an uplifting story about a boy with facial differences entering middle school for the first time. This book teaches readers about kindness, acceptance, and the importance of seeing beyond appearances. It’s a heartwarming read that resonates with the challenges of growing up.
Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan. This action-packed adventure brings Greek mythology to life through the experiences of a modern-day boy who discovers he is a demigod. The humor and relatable characters make it a fun read that also introduces literary classics. This series is still my sons favorite!
The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley follows a young girl named Ada, who escapes her abusive mother during World War II and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience while finding love and acceptance in a new home.
The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare tells the story of Kit Tyler, a spirited young woman who navigates societal challenges and forms unexpected friendships in colonial Connecticut while facing prejudice and suspicion for her unconventional ways.
Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes is a captivating historical novel about a young silversmith apprentice in Revolutionary Boston who grapples with personal and political challenges that ultimately shape his destiny and the fight for independence.
The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann Wyss tells the adventurous tale of a shipwrecked family who must work together to survive on a deserted island, facing challenges and discovering the importance of teamwork and resilience.
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery follows the adventures and misadventures of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and spirited orphan girl who is mistakenly sent to live with a brother and sister in the small town of Avonlea, where she transforms their lives and the community with her vibrant personality.
The Golden Goblet by Eloise Jarvis McGraw follows the journey of a young Egyptian boy named Ranofer as he strives to overcome challenges and fulfill his dreams of becoming a goldsmith while confronting greed and betrayal.
The Eagle of the Ninth by Rosemary Sutcliff tells the story of a young Roman centurion’s quest to recover his father’s lost eagle standard and restore his family’s honor in the wilds of ancient Britain.
The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare tells the story of a young Jewish rebel named Daniel who grapples with his desire for vengeance against the Romans while discovering the power of love and forgiveness through his interactions with Jesus and those around him.
Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai offers a poignant story based on the author’s own experiences as a Vietnamese refugee. Told in verse, this book captures the struggles of adapting to a new culture and the importance of family. It provides a personal perspective on resilience and hope.
Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson is a compelling choice. Set during the American Revolutionary War, this novel follows a young enslaved girl seeking her freedom. It offers insight into America’s past, while inviting discussions about freedom, loyalty, and bravery.
The Great Trouble: A Mystery of London, the Blue Death, and a Boy Called Eel a thrilling historical mystery by Deborah Hopkinson, young Eel navigates the perils of cholera in Victorian London while uncovering secrets that could change his life forever.
In Under the Egg by Laura Marx Fitzgerald, a young girl uncovers a hidden painting that leads her on a thrilling adventure to discover her family’s history and the art world.
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. This coming-of-age novel portrays the struggles of teenage life and the deep social divides between different groups. Its emotional weight and relatable themes make it a timeless read that resonates with young people today.
The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis tells the compelling story of a young Afghan girl who disguises herself as a boy to support her family under the Taliban regime.
Year of Impossible Goodbyes by Sook Nyul Choi tells the poignant story of a young girl’s struggles and resilience during the turmoil of the Korean War and her family’s fight for survival and freedom amidst the chaos.
The Singing Tree by Kate Seredy tells the story of two children who, through their adventures and the power of friendship during World War I, discover resilience and the importance of hope amidst adversity.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson is a heartwarming and humorous tale about a chaotic Christmas pageant disrupted by the unruly Herdman siblings, who unexpectedly bring a new perspective to the holiday story.
Banner in the Sky by James Ramsey Ullman ells the story of a young climber, young protagonist, who embarks on a daring journey to conquer a perilous mountain peak, driven by a mix of adventure, personal growth, and the legacy of his late father.
Classic Poetry: Candlewick Illustrated Classic by Michael Rosen and Paul Howard brings timeless poetry to life with beautiful illustrations, making it accessible and engaging for readers of all ages.
The Good Master by Kate Seredy tells the story of a young city girl who visits her uncle on a Hungarian farm, where she learns about the values of hard work, friendship, and the joys of rural life.
The Ghost in the Tokaido Inn by Dorothy Hoobler is a captivating mystery that follows two young samurai as they investigate a series of strange occurrences and a ghostly presence in a haunted inn along Japan’s famous Tokaido road.
Only the Names Remain: The Cherokees and the Trail of Tears by Alex W. Bealer and Kristina Rodanas explores the tragic history of the Cherokees during the Trail of Tears, highlighting their resilience and the enduring impact of this painful chapter in American history.
The Endless Steppe by Esther Hautzig tells the poignant story of a Jewish girl’s resilience and growth while facing the challenges of survival and adaptation during her family’s exile to Siberia during World War II.
Angel on the Square by Gloria Whelan tells the story of a young girl named Katya living in St. Petersburg during the Russian Revolution, who navigates the challenges of change and loss while discovering her own strength and the importance of friendship amidst political upheaval.
Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan tells the story of a young Indian girl named Koly who navigates the challenges of love, loss, and resilience as she faces the harsh realities of being widowed at a young age in a society that limits her choices.
The King’s Fifth by Scott O’Dell tells the story of a young Spanish cartographer who accompanies an expedition in search of wealth in the New World, grappling with themes of loyalty, greed, and the moral dilemmas of exploration.
Nory Ryan’s Song by Patricia Reilly Giff tells the story of a young Irish girl, Nory, who faces hardship and resilience in the midst of the Great Famine as she navigates family struggles and the quest for survival in her small village.
In Snow Treasure by Marie McSwigan, , a group of brave Norwegian children devises a clever plan to outsmart enemy soldiers by using sleds to transport stolen gold through the snow to protect their town during World War II.
Calico Bush by Rachel Field and Allen Lewis tells the story of a young French girl named Marguerite who navigates the challenges of life on the Maine frontier in the 18th century, highlighting themes of resilience, community, and cultural identity.
In Pay Attention, Carter Jones by Gary D. Schmidt, a young boy navigates personal challenges and family dynamics with the help of a quirky but wise cricket as he learns valuable life lessons about responsibility and growth.
New Kid by Jerry Craft follows the story of Jordan, a young African American boy navigating his experiences at a predominantly white private school, where he learns about friendship, identity, and the challenges of fitting in.
Bruchko by Bruce Olson recounts the author’s transformative journey as he connects with the Motilone tribe in Colombia, sharing his faith and experiences while navigating cultural challenges.
In I Dared to Call Him Father, Bilquis Sheikh shares her transformative journey from a devout Muslim to a follower of Christ, exploring themes of faith, identity, and personal revelation.
Kisses from Katie is an inspiring memoir by Katie Davis Majors that chronicles her journey from a young girl in Tennessee to a devoted mother and missionary in Uganda, where she transforms the lives of orphans and embodies the power of love and service.
Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls tells the touching story of a young boy named Billy who dreams of owning two hunting dogs, and through hard work and perseverance, he achieves his goal, leading to unforgettable adventures and profound life lessons about love, loss, and the bond between humans and animals.
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster and Jules Feiffer is a whimsical adventure that follows a boy named Milo as he journeys through a magical land, discovering the joys of learning and the importance of curiosity.
Little Britches: Father and I Were Ranchers by Ralph Moody recounts the author’s experiences growing up on a Colorado ranch in the early 1900s, highlighting themes of family, hard work, and the lessons learned from his father.
The Hiding Place tells the inspiring true story of Corrie Ten Boom and her family, who helped numerous Jews escape the Nazis during World War II, illustrating the power of faith, love, and forgiveness in the face of unimaginable hardship.
Holes by Louis Sachar follows the story of Stanley Yelnats, a boy wrongfully sent to a juvenile camp where he uncovers family secrets and the mystery behind a cursed family fortune while digging holes under the scorching sun.
The Giver by Lois Lowry follows a boy named Jonas who discovers the dark truths behind his seemingly perfect, controlled society when he becomes the Receiver of Memories.
The Maze Runner by James Dashner follows a group of teenagers who wake up in a mysterious maze and must work together to escape while uncovering the secrets of their past and the world outside.
Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick tells the inspiring story of two misfit boys, Kevin and Max, who form an unlikely friendship that empowers them to face their challenges and navigate life’s obstacles together.
The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis is a powerful story about a family’s road trip from Michigan to Alabama, where they confront the harsh realities of racism in the Jim Crow South while navigating their own family dynamics.
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie follows a young Native American boy named Junior as he navigates life on the Spokane Indian Reservation while attending a predominantly white high school, tackling themes of identity, ambition, and resilience.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams follows the interstellar misadventures of an unwitting human named Arthur Dent who, after Earth is destroyed, travels through space with a guidebook and a quirky cast of alien characters.
The Sherwood Ring by Elizabeth Marie Pope is a captivating tale of a young girl who discovers a magical world while staying at her family’s ancestral home, intertwining historical events with a touch of romance and adventure.